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Manchester United celebrated their return to the Champions League with a 4-0 thrashing of Sabah on Thursday, as Cesc Fabregas's Como impressed on their debut in Europe's premier club competition. Harry Kane and Michael Olise, with a brace, both scored in the week that they were nominated for the Ballon d'Or as Bayern Munich were made to work before Bodo/Glimt's second-half collapse in a 5-0 rout.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-announce-26-member-squad-for-friendlies-including-against-india-1789015050304">Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India</a>Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford."I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans," Sesko told TNT Sports."It means a lot to them, especially when they see so many goals. I think it was great for us in general to give us more motivation for the upcoming games."There was one moment of concern after Cunha had given Michael Carrick's team a 27th-minute lead from Patrick Dorgu's cross, as United's defensive frailties almost came back to haunt them.But Joy-Lance Mickels headed wide for the Champions League debutants when free at the back post from less than five yards out.The Azerbaijanis wilted at the end of the first period as Youri Tielemans teed up Fernandes and then Sesko ran onto Bryan Mbeumo's through ball before rounding goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov before sliding the ball home.Midway through the second half, Martinez pounced on a bobbling ball that ricocheted off Pokatilov and a defender from substitute Joshua Zirkzee's backheel as United went into cruise control.Carrick even had the luxury of bringing on youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey for their Champions League bows as he sought to rest legs ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby."I think the confidence boost is definitely big. It's important to recover good and focus on the derby," added Sesko.<h2>Eight in a row for Kane</h2>Goals from Croatia midfielder Martin Baturina, Greece forward Tasos Douvikas and Senegal's Assane Diao put Como in control against RB Leipzig.Serbia midfielder Andrija Maksimovic pulled a goal back for Leipzig before Maximo Perrone sealed a 4-1 victory late on a dream night in northern Italy.Kane scored for the eighth Champions League game in a row as he powered home a header from Olise's free-kick, with Bayern eventually overcoming a spirited Bodo/Glimt.Jamal Musiala had given them the lead shortly after a goalless first half and after Kane's goal, Alphonso Davies shot into the bottom corner when Olise's corner was only half cleared.It was Musiala's first goal since he collapsed on the pitch during pre-season due to a neurological condition."Scoring a goal -- pure happiness," Musiala told DAZN."I just want to perform well again... I just want to get back to my level step by step, playing with a sense of ease, joy, and fun on the pitch."Olise got in on the act with a sumptuous finish seven minutes from time before Odin Bjortuft was dismissed for the Norwegians.Olise then completed the rout with his second.Lens twice came from behind to beat 10-man Slavia Prague 3-2 with injury-time goals from Florian Thauvin and Ruben Aguilar.Danijel Sturm had twice given Slavia the lead, firstly just after Mikulas Konecny was dismissed and then with just two minutes remaining, but the Czechs were unable to hold on.Earlier on, there were 1-1 draws between Fenerbahce and Roma, and between PSV Eindhoven and Shakhtar Donetsk.Fenerbahce coach Ismail Kartal quit after the match in Istanbul, during which he was targeted by a bottle thrown from the crowd.But his president Aziz Yildirim said he had rejected the resignation.

Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Manchester United celebrated their return to the Champions League with a 4-0 thrashing of Sabah on Thursday, as Cesc Fabregas's Como impressed on their debut in Europe's premier club competition. Harry Kane and Michael Olise, with a brace, both scored in the week that they were nominated for the Ballon d'Or as Bayern Munich were made to work before Bodo/Glimt's second-half collapse in a 5-0 rout. Also Read - Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford. "I think it was perfect for everyone, especially our fans," Sesko told TNT Sports. "It means a lot to them, especially when they see so many goals. I think it was great for us in general to give us more motivation for the upcoming games." There was one moment of concern after Cunha had given Michael Carrick's team a 27th-minute lead from Patrick Dorgu's cross, as United's defensive frailties almost came back to haunt them. But Joy-Lance Mickels headed wide for the Champions League debutants when free at the back post from less than five yards out. The Azerbaijanis wilted at the end of the first period as Youri Tielemans teed up Fernandes and then Sesko ran onto Bryan Mbeumo's through ball before rounding goalkeeper Stas Pokatilov before sliding the ball home. Midway through the second half, Martinez pounced on a bobbling ball that ricocheted off Pokatilov and a defender from substitute Joshua Zirkzee's backheel as United went into cruise control. Carrick even had the luxury of bringing on youngsters Harry Amass and Shea Lacey for their Champions League bows as he sought to rest legs ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby. "I think the confidence boost is definitely big. It's important to recover good and focus on the derby," added Sesko. Eight in a row for Kane Goals from Croatia midfielder Martin Baturina, Greece forward Tasos Douvikas and Senegal's Assane Diao put Como in control against RB Leipzig. Serbia midfielder Andrija Maksimovic pulled a goal back for Leipzig before Maximo Perrone sealed a 4-1 victory late on a dream night in northern Italy. Kane scored for the eighth Champions League game in a row as he powered home a header from Olise's free-kick, with Bayern eventually overcoming a spirited Bodo/Glimt. Jamal Musiala had given them the lead shortly after a goalless first half and after Kane's goal, Alphonso Davies shot into the bottom corner when Olise's corner was only half cleared. It was Musiala's first goal since he collapsed on the pitch during pre-season due to a neurological condition. "Scoring a goal -- pure happiness," Musiala told DAZN. "I just want to perform well again... I just want to get back to my level step by step, playing with a sense of ease, joy, and fun on the pitch." Olise got in on the act with a sumptuous finish seven minutes from time before Odin Bjortuft was dismissed for the Norwegians. Olise then completed the rout with his second. Lens twice came from behind to beat 10-man Slavia Prague 3-2 with injury-time goals from Florian Thauvin and Ruben Aguilar. Danijel Sturm had twice given Slavia the lead, firstly just after Mikulas Konecny was dismissed and then with just two minutes remaining, but the Czechs were unable to hold on. Earlier on, there were 1-1 draws between Fenerbahce and Roma, and between PSV Eindhoven and Shakhtar Donetsk. Fenerbahce coach Ismail Kartal quit after the match in Istanbul, during which he was targeted by a bottle thrown from the crowd. But his president Aziz Yildirim said he had rejected the resignation.

Matheus Cunha scored his first goal of the season while captain Bruno Fernandes, forward Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Lisandro Martinez were also on the scoresheet on a comfortable night for the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Champions League: Manchester United make winning return; Bayern win vs Bodo

Brazil, the five-time FIFA World Cup winner, will be playing three friendlies in the coming days, including their first-ever match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who had vowed squad changes after their Round of 16 elimination against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has announced a new-look 26-member team. Before India, Brazil will play two friendlies against Australia - on September 25 in Townsville and on September 29 in Brisbane. Brazil's next big tournament is the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 before preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup begins.<h2>Brazil names 26-member squad for friendlies, including match against India</h2>The most noticeable change Ancelotti made was an overhaul of goalkeepers, which includes three new players in Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro), while Liverpool's Alisson Becker failed to find a place.From the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, the known players missing from the new-look squad are veteran midfielder Casemiro (Inter Miami) and Fabinho. Brazil's all-time highest goalscorer, Neymar, who announced his retirement post the FIFA World Cup debacle, is also not in the squad.Among the players who made the cut are Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias and PSV Eindhoven full-back Mauro Junior.Ancelotti, however, retained experienced players such as Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, Barcelona's Raphinha, Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes, and Paris Saint-Germain skipper Marquinhos."With these three friendlies, we will start the new cycle to project the Selecao in the objectives of the coming years, which are the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup," said Ancelotti while announcing the squad.<h2>Brazil full squad for friendlies, including India:</h2>Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro)Defenders: Arthur Dias (Athletico-PR), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Jair (Nottingham Forest), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Matheuzinho (Corinthians), Mauro Junior (PSV), Vitor Reis (Manchester City), and Wesley (Roma)Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Manchester United), Breno Bidon (Corinthians), Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal), Danilo (Botafogo), Douglas Luiz (Juventus), and Gabriel Bontempo (Santos)Forwards: Endrick (Real Madrid), Estavao (Chelsea), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Pedro (Flamengo), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Samuel Lino (Flamengo), and Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti named a new-look 26-man Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India (Oct 3, Kolkata). Stars Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Marquinhos return, while Neymar, Casemiro, and Alisson miss out.

Brazil, the five-time FIFA World Cup winner, will be playing three friendlies in the coming days, including their first-ever match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who had vowed squad changes after their Round of 16 elimination against Norway in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has announced a new-look 26-member team. Before India, Brazil will play two friendlies against Australia - on September 25 in Townsville and on September 29 in Brisbane. Brazil's next big tournament is the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 before preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup begins. Brazil names 26-member squad for friendlies, including match against India The most noticeable change Ancelotti made was an overhaul of goalkeepers, which includes three new players in Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro), while Liverpool's Alisson Becker failed to find a place. From the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, the known players missing from the new-look squad are veteran midfielder Casemiro (Inter Miami) and Fabinho. Brazil's all-time highest goalscorer, Neymar, who announced his retirement post the FIFA World Cup debacle, is also not in the squad. Among the players who made the cut are Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias and PSV Eindhoven full-back Mauro Junior. Ancelotti, however, retained experienced players such as Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, Barcelona's Raphinha, Arsenal's Bruno Guimaraes, and Paris Saint-Germain skipper Marquinhos. "With these three friendlies, we will start the new cycle to project the Selecao in the objectives of the coming years, which are the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup," said Ancelotti while announcing the squad. Brazil full squad for friendlies, including India: Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), and Otavio (Cruzeiro) Defenders: Arthur Dias (Athletico-PR), Douglas Santos (Zenit), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Jair (Nottingham Forest), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Matheuzinho (Corinthians), Mauro Junior (PSV), Vitor Reis (Manchester City), and Wesley (Roma) Midfielders: Andrey Santos (Manchester United), Breno Bidon (Corinthians), Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal), Danilo (Botafogo), Douglas Luiz (Juventus), and Gabriel Bontempo (Santos) Forwards: Endrick (Real Madrid), Estavao (Chelsea), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Pedro (Flamengo), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Samuel Lino (Flamengo), and Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Carlo Ancelotti named a new-look 26-man Brazil squad for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India (Oct 3, Kolkata). Stars Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Marquinhos return, while Neymar, Casemiro, and Alisson miss out.

Brazil announce 26-member squad for friendlies, including against India

Holders Paris Saint-Germain made a smooth start to their bid for a third consecutive Champions League title as Ferran Torres scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 rout of Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona kicked off their campaign by scoring five goals against Feyenoord, while Arsenal impressed with a 1-0 win at Napoli. PSG, who are hoping to become only the fourth club to win three European Cups in a row, visit Manchester City and host Barca in their next two European games.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ballon-dor-2026-nominees-messi-ferran-torres-shortlist-1788965614180">Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Messi, Ferran Torres shortlisted</a>"It is the Champions League, we always play against tough teams, but we have to be focused first in Ligue 1 because we didn't start in the right way," said Torres, with PSG yet to win a domestic game this season.But they wasted little time in picking apart Yaya Toure's Slovan at the Parc des Princes.Ousmane Dembele hammered in a rebound and then nodded in a deflected cross to put Luis Enrique's men two goals ahead inside 22 minutes.Torres tapped home Dembele's cross just after the half-hour mark and drilled in his second less than two minutes after the restart.Spain's World Cup final hero completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, shanking a shot with his knee that spun into the bottom corner.Suleiman Camara crashed in a consolation for Slovan, but Fabian Ruiz had the final say for PSG when he pounced on a mishit clearance.Liverpool made it successive victories after winning at Ipswich in the Premier League last week by beating Atletico 2-1 at Anfield.Atletico grabbed a 17th-minute lead as Julian Alvarez, starting for the first time this season after failing to force a move away from the club, played in Marcos Llorente to dink the ball over Alisson in the Liverpool goal.Llorente has now scored five times in three visits to Anfield, after netting a double at Liverpool last season and in Atletico's dramatic last-16 victory in 2020.Liverpool hit back five minutes before the break through Dominik Szoboszlai, courtesy of a clever backheeled pass from Ronald Araujo.Alexis Mac Allister then hammered the hosts in front five minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike from outside the box, and Atletico could not find a response."I've loved it. The atmosphere has been incredible and I feel lucky, lucky to experience it," said Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola after his Champions League coaching debut.<h2>Odegaard sinks Napoli</h2>Arsenal missed several first-half chances at the Stadio Armando Diego Maradona, with Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret making an excellent save to keep out Mikel Merino's header.Piero Hincapie fired over a golden chance from just three yards out as the English champions continued to push after half-time, but last season's runners-up finally forged ahead with 15 minutes left.Martin Odegaard, who scored the winner against Chelsea at the weekend, played a clever one-two with Christos Tzolis on the edge of the area and crashed a shot in off the far post.Barcelona made an excellent start to their latest bid to end a 12-year wait to lift the trophy, as Raphinha continued his superb form by scoring twice in a 5-1 thumping of Feyenoord.Hansi Flick's men, who lost to Atletico in the quarter-finals last season, have won all five of their matches in all competitions so far this season, scoring five goals in four of them."We controlled the game, we are dominant and this is fantastic to see. This is our style and how we want to play," said Flick.Raphinha put Barca into a third-minute lead before a brilliant long-range strike from summer signing Karim Adeyemi.Brazilian Raphinha, playing up front this season after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Torres, made it eight goals already for the campaign in the second half.Lamine Yamal netted a free-kick which crept through the wall, and although Sem Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord, Gabriel Jesus came off the bench and then headed in his first Barca goal.Ermedin Demirovic scored a first-half hat-trick as Stuttgart eased to a 3-1 home win over Norwegian champions Viking, playing in the competition for the first time in 34 years.Sporting, quarter-finalists last season for the first time since 1983, fought back to see off Galatasaray 3-1 in Lisbon.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain rout Slovan Bratislava, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona scored five goals against Feyenoord and Arsenal beat Napoli 1-0.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain made a smooth start to their bid for a third consecutive Champions League title as Ferran Torres scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 rout of Slovan Bratislava on Wednesday, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona kicked off their campaign by scoring five goals against Feyenoord, while Arsenal impressed with a 1-0 win at Napoli. PSG, who are hoping to become only the fourth club to win three European Cups in a row, visit Manchester City and host Barca in their next two European games. Also Read - Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Messi, Ferran Torres shortlisted "It is the Champions League, we always play against tough teams, but we have to be focused first in Ligue 1 because we didn't start in the right way," said Torres, with PSG yet to win a domestic game this season. But they wasted little time in picking apart Yaya Toure's Slovan at the Parc des Princes. Ousmane Dembele hammered in a rebound and then nodded in a deflected cross to put Luis Enrique's men two goals ahead inside 22 minutes. Torres tapped home Dembele's cross just after the half-hour mark and drilled in his second less than two minutes after the restart. Spain's World Cup final hero completed his hat-trick in the 57th minute, shanking a shot with his knee that spun into the bottom corner. Suleiman Camara crashed in a consolation for Slovan, but Fabian Ruiz had the final say for PSG when he pounced on a mishit clearance. Liverpool made it successive victories after winning at Ipswich in the Premier League last week by beating Atletico 2-1 at Anfield. Atletico grabbed a 17th-minute lead as Julian Alvarez, starting for the first time this season after failing to force a move away from the club, played in Marcos Llorente to dink the ball over Alisson in the Liverpool goal. Llorente has now scored five times in three visits to Anfield, after netting a double at Liverpool last season and in Atletico's dramatic last-16 victory in 2020. Liverpool hit back five minutes before the break through Dominik Szoboszlai, courtesy of a clever backheeled pass from Ronald Araujo. Alexis Mac Allister then hammered the hosts in front five minutes into the second half with a left-footed strike from outside the box, and Atletico could not find a response. "I've loved it. The atmosphere has been incredible and I feel lucky, lucky to experience it," said Liverpool's new manager Andoni Iraola after his Champions League coaching debut. Odegaard sinks Napoli Arsenal missed several first-half chances at the Stadio Armando Diego Maradona, with Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret making an excellent save to keep out Mikel Merino's header. Piero Hincapie fired over a golden chance from just three yards out as the English champions continued to push after half-time, but last season's runners-up finally forged ahead with 15 minutes left. Martin Odegaard, who scored the winner against Chelsea at the weekend, played a clever one-two with Christos Tzolis on the edge of the area and crashed a shot in off the far post. Barcelona made an excellent start to their latest bid to end a 12-year wait to lift the trophy, as Raphinha continued his superb form by scoring twice in a 5-1 thumping of Feyenoord. Hansi Flick's men, who lost to Atletico in the quarter-finals last season, have won all five of their matches in all competitions so far this season, scoring five goals in four of them. "We controlled the game, we are dominant and this is fantastic to see. This is our style and how we want to play," said Flick. Raphinha put Barca into a third-minute lead before a brilliant long-range strike from summer signing Karim Adeyemi. Brazilian Raphinha, playing up front this season after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Torres, made it eight goals already for the campaign in the second half. Lamine Yamal netted a free-kick which crept through the wall, and although Sem Steijn pulled one back for Feyenoord, Gabriel Jesus came off the bench and then headed in his first Barca goal. Ermedin Demirovic scored a first-half hat-trick as Stuttgart eased to a 3-1 home win over Norwegian champions Viking, playing in the competition for the first time in 34 years. Sporting, quarter-finalists last season for the first time since 1983, fought back to see off Galatasaray 3-1 in Lisbon.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain rout Slovan Bratislava, while Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid. Barcelona scored five goals against Feyenoord and Arsenal beat Napoli 1-0.

Champions League: PSG start title defence with rout of Slovan; Liverpool, Barca, Arsenal win

Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, has been nominated for the coveted Ballon d’Or this year. Besides him, Lionel Messi also received his 17th nomination, with the two leading the 30-man Ballon d’Or list revealed on Tuesday. Torres has since joined the Champions League winners, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and is one of six Spanish World Cup winners, including Rodri and teen sensation Lamine Yamal, to make the cut. Yamal finished second behind France and PSG forward Ousmane Dembele for the ultimate prize last season. &nbsp;Amongst women’s nominations, three-time winner Aitana Bonmatí failed to make the list after breaking her leg midway through the season; however, her former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who won the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, is there. &nbsp;Spanish forward Torres also won La Liga with Barcelona in May, but will now team up with Dembele, who is one of nine PSG players on the list, who have also won back-to-back Champions Leagues in the last two years. Torres’s summer move to PSG brings the French champions’ total to 10 nominees.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mourinho-makes-winning-comeback-as-real-madrid-beat-inter-milan-1788922260426">Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan</a> &nbsp;However, Fabian Ruiz is the only player to have won the Champions League and World Cup in 2026. Besides them, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the Portuguese midfield pair of Vitinha and Joao Neves have also been nominated for the top individual prize in all of football this year.<h2>Messi nominated for 17th time</h2>2022 World Cup winner and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Lionel Messi, continued to lead nominations for the 17th time for his prize, while his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo missed out. Messi inspired Argentina to back-to-back World Cup finals before losing to Spain in extra time in what was a lopsided final in New Jersey. &nbsp;Other high-profile names include England captain and talismanic striker Harry Kane, who won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. His German club teammate and French playmaker Michael Olise has also been nominated. &nbsp;Real Madrid and England midfield maverick, Jude Bellingham, also earned his nomination for a stellar World Cup, scoring seven goals – as many as Norwegian striker and fellow nominee Erling Haaland’s tally at the tournament. Only Messi (eight) and Kylian Mbappe (10) scored more goals than them. &nbsp;Bellingham’s Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé also features on the shortlist after becoming the first player to win the World Cup golden boot a second time, while also leading the tournament’s all-time tally. &nbsp;Interestingly, Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde, who earned recognition for his heroics in his maiden World Cup, has also been nominated for the Yachine Trophy (goalkeeper category).&nbsp; &nbsp;The winners will be announced in a ceremony at the London Palladium Theatre on October 26.

Lionel Messi earns his 17th Ballon d’Or nomination alongside Spain World Cup hero Ferran Torres as the 2026 30-man shortlist is revealed.

Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, has been nominated for the coveted Ballon d’Or this year. Besides him, Lionel Messi also received his 17th nomination, with the two leading the 30-man Ballon d’Or list revealed on Tuesday. Torres has since joined the Champions League winners, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and is one of six Spanish World Cup winners, including Rodri and teen sensation Lamine Yamal, to make the cut. Yamal finished second behind France and PSG forward Ousmane Dembele for the ultimate prize last season. Amongst women’s nominations, three-time winner Aitana Bonmatí failed to make the list after breaking her leg midway through the season; however, her former Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who won the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2021 and 2022, is there. Spanish forward Torres also won La Liga with Barcelona in May, but will now team up with Dembele, who is one of nine PSG players on the list, who have also won back-to-back Champions Leagues in the last two years. Torres’s summer move to PSG brings the French champions’ total to 10 nominees. Also read| Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan However, Fabian Ruiz is the only player to have won the Champions League and World Cup in 2026. Besides them, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the Portuguese midfield pair of Vitinha and Joao Neves have also been nominated for the top individual prize in all of football this year. Messi nominated for 17th time 2022 World Cup winner and record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Lionel Messi, continued to lead nominations for the 17th time for his prize, while his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo missed out. Messi inspired Argentina to back-to-back World Cup finals before losing to Spain in extra time in what was a lopsided final in New Jersey. Other high-profile names include England captain and talismanic striker Harry Kane, who won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. His German club teammate and French playmaker Michael Olise has also been nominated. Real Madrid and England midfield maverick, Jude Bellingham, also earned his nomination for a stellar World Cup, scoring seven goals – as many as Norwegian striker and fellow nominee Erling Haaland’s tally at the tournament. Only Messi (eight) and Kylian Mbappe (10) scored more goals than them. Bellingham’s Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé also features on the shortlist after becoming the first player to win the World Cup golden boot a second time, while also leading the tournament’s all-time tally. Interestingly, Vozinha, the 40-year-old goalkeeper from Cape Verde, who earned recognition for his heroics in his maiden World Cup, has also been nominated for the Yachine Trophy (goalkeeper category). The winners will be announced in a ceremony at the London Palladium Theatre on October 26.

Lionel Messi earns his 17th Ballon d’Or nomination alongside Spain World Cup hero Ferran Torres as the 2026 30-man shortlist is revealed.

Ballon d’Or 2026 Nominees: World Cup finalists Lionel Messi and Ferran Torres shortlisted

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lamine-yamal-ballon-dor-comments-mbappe-dembele-barcelona-1788879907390">Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims</a>Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition.Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul.The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score.Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory."It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems."Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross.Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League."Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime.It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain.<h2>Welcome win for Villa</h2>Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away.John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season.Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break.The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball.Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory."We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery.Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal.Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side.However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in.<h2>UEFA Champions League</h2>Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France.Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille.Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence.Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off.In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Jose Mourinho got off to a winning start on his return to the Champions League with Real Madrid on Tuesday as the Spanish giants beat Inter Milan 2-1, while Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's victory at Porto. There were also wins for Aston Villa and Borussia Dortmund on the first night of action in this season's league phase, as the opening matchday spreads across three nights. Also Read - Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010. Madrid were two goals ahead midway through the first half at the Bernabeu thanks to two gifts from the Inter defence, with Yann Bisseck at fault as Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring on his 99th appearance in the competition. Mbappe has now scored 71 Champions League goals, equalling the tally of Real legend Raul. The home side doubled their lead when Inter goalkeeper Josep Martinez tried to turn away from Fede Valverde inside his own six-yard box only for the Uruguayan to tackle him and score. Carlos Augusto pulled one back for Inter, but Real held on for the victory. "It was a crazy game," Mourinho told broadcaster Movistar. "A game that finished 2-1 could have finished 7-6 without any problems." Enzo Maresca's City won 2-0 away to Portuguese champions Porto thanks to a second-half brace by Haaland, the first coming two minutes after the restart when he headed in Enzo Fernandez's cross. Haaland sealed the points in stoppage time and has now scored an astonishing 59 goals in 59 appearances in the Champions League. "Erling Haaland is an animal. He is a beast, so every time he is on the pitch, I'm going to look for him, and hopefully give him many more assists," Fernandez told Amazon Prime. It was a fourth straight victory in all competitions for City, Champions League winners in 2023, whose next European game will be at home to title-holders Paris Saint-Germain. Welcome win for Villa Villa, last season's Europa League winners, put their poor start to this campaign behind them to beat Belgian champions Club Brugge 3-2 away. John McGinn curled into the far corner to open the scoring for Unai Emery's side, who have not yet scored a goal three games into the Premier League season. Hugo Vetlesen equalised for the hosts, but Emiliano Buendia quickly restored Villa's lead and then Nicolas Jackson made it 3-1 two minutes before the break. The summer signing ran through to score his first Villa goal after home goalkeeper Yann Sommer came flying out of his box and failed to get to the ball. Nicolo Tresoldi pulled another one back just after the hour mark following a handball by Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The same player hit the post soon after, but Villa claimed a welcome victory. "We took one step forward today and it was very, very important for our confidence and stability," said Emery. Serhou Guirassy was the chief protagonist as Dortmund, runners-up in 2024, started their campaign with a 3-2 home win against Villarreal. Renato Veiga's own goal gave Dortmund the lead early in the second half, but Santiago Mourino headed in the equaliser for the Spanish side. However, Guirassy put the Germans back in front with 10 minutes left, then converted a penalty for his second and his team's third. He rounded things off with an own goal when a Gregor Kobel save ricocheted back off Guirassy's face and went in. UEFA Champions League Troy Parrott was the hero for Real Betis for the second time in five days as the Spaniards came from behind twice to win 3-2 against Lille in France. Marc Bartra equalised twice for Betis, cancelling out goals by Japan's Ayase Ueda and Brazil defender Alexsandro for Davide Ancelotti's Lille. Irish striker Parrott, who scored his new club's winner against Madrid at the weekend, then struck the decisive goal on 53 minutes as Betis claimed a victory on their return to the Champions League after a 21-year absence. Lille finished with 10 men as Ethan Mbappe, younger brother of Kylian, was sent off. In the night's other game, Greek champions AEK Athens beat Austrian title winners LASK 1-0 thanks to a stunning Razvan Marin free-kick.

Record 15-time European champions Real have brought back Mourinho for a second spell in charge, and his first game back in the competition came against the side he led to Champions League glory in 2010.

Champions League: Mourinho makes winning comeback as Real Madrid beat Inter Milan

Teen sensation and World Cup winner with Spain, Lamine Yamal, said he will not beg for the coveted Ballon d’Or after winning two crucial titles this year. After leading La Liga giants Barcelona to a league title and helping Spain clinch their second World Cup in North America in July this year, Yamal remains among the top candidates to win the highest individual prize in football. &nbsp;On Monday, Kylian Mbappe pressed his case to win his first Ballon d’Or trophy, highlighting his World Cup Golden Boot win, which also saw him become the competition's all-time top goalscorer. Although Yamal, 19, thinks the same about his performance, he is happy to leave the decision to those who vote. &nbsp;Meanwhile, he, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are the front-runners to win the award at the ceremony in London on October 26.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-matches-to-observe-a-minute-of-silence-in-soilidarity-for-nepal-flood-victims-1788840087613">Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims</a> &nbsp;"I don't think I need to (make a campaign for it), I'm not thinking about what I deserve; everyone can think what they like," Yamal told reporters. "I'm proud of everything I've done this year with my club and with the national team. We've become world champions; we've won the league again. I can't ask for anything more. &nbsp;"I think... I've shown an incredible level; it's (the media's) job, and I will not beg for anything." &nbsp;Even last year, the then-18-year-old Yamal finished second behind PSG star Dembele in Ballon d'Or voting. Meanwhile, France forward Dembele recently told France Football that Kvaratskhelia, Kane and Mbappe would be in his top three to win the award. &nbsp;"He's a friend of Kylian, right?" joked Yamal of the French winger, formerly of Barcelona. "The truth is, I don't care; I'm very happy with the year I had. When I played against both of them together, I must have annoyed them."&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🌕 Lamine Yamal on Ousmane Dembélé not including him into his top 3 for the Ballon d’Or: “He’s Kylian Mbappé’s friend, right?”. 😅 “I’m very happy with the season I had. I think every time we faced each other, I probably did something that made them dislike me! And that’s… <a href="https://t.co/jNcDbNTt3S">pic.twitter.com/jNcDbNTt3S</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2097303745461617054?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At this year’s World Cup, Yamal’s Spain denied France a place in the final, with Mbappe and Dembele leading the frontline, by beating them 2-0 in the semis. &nbsp;Yamal suffered a hamstring injury in April and has only just returned to his best level. The winger appeared unhappy at the start of the season but seemed far more cheerful as he netted two goals against Rayo Vallecano and Valencia in his last two outings. &nbsp;"In the end, I'm 19, coming off winning a World Cup, having had the best holidays of my life," said Yamal. "I've never been happier at any point in my life than I am now."&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Lamine Yamal says he will not beg for the Ballon d'Or despite leading Barcelona and Spain to silverware, responding to comments from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.

Teen sensation and World Cup winner with Spain, Lamine Yamal, said he will not beg for the coveted Ballon d’Or after winning two crucial titles this year. After leading La Liga giants Barcelona to a league title and helping Spain clinch their second World Cup in North America in July this year, Yamal remains among the top candidates to win the highest individual prize in football. On Monday, Kylian Mbappe pressed his case to win his first Ballon d’Or trophy, highlighting his World Cup Golden Boot win, which also saw him become the competition's all-time top goalscorer. Although Yamal, 19, thinks the same about his performance, he is happy to leave the decision to those who vote. Meanwhile, he, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are the front-runners to win the award at the ceremony in London on October 26. Also read| Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims "I don't think I need to (make a campaign for it), I'm not thinking about what I deserve; everyone can think what they like," Yamal told reporters. "I'm proud of everything I've done this year with my club and with the national team. We've become world champions; we've won the league again. I can't ask for anything more. "I think... I've shown an incredible level; it's (the media's) job, and I will not beg for anything." Even last year, the then-18-year-old Yamal finished second behind PSG star Dembele in Ballon d'Or voting. Meanwhile, France forward Dembele recently told France Football that Kvaratskhelia, Kane and Mbappe would be in his top three to win the award. "He's a friend of Kylian, right?" joked Yamal of the French winger, formerly of Barcelona. "The truth is, I don't care; I'm very happy with the year I had. When I played against both of them together, I must have annoyed them." WATCH -

Lamine Yamal says he will not beg for the Ballon d'Or despite leading Barcelona and Spain to silverware, responding to comments from Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.

‘I will not beg’: Lamine Yamal takes stand on Ballon d'Or race amid Mbappe, Dembele claims

The UEFA Champions League, which decides the best football club in Europe, is back for another season. The league phase of the Champions League 2026–27 is set to begin on Tuesday (Sep 8) with 36 teams participating in 18 matches throughout the week on matchday 1 of 8. The Champions League matches, however, will observe a minute of silence throughout the week as a mark of solidarity with deadly Nepal flood victims. The announcement, made Monday (Sep 7) by UEFA, also stated that a banner will be displayed at every match carrying the message "You are not alone Nepal."<h2>UEFA Champions League matches to observe silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims</h2>"The entire European football family will stand together before this week’s matches to express our deepest condolences and our support to the people of Nepal. We wish them strength and resilience as they continue to recover from this tragedy and its aftermath," Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA’s president, said in a statement.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🤍 You are not alone, Nepal. This week, flood victims will be honoured with a moment of silence ahead of all UEFA Champions League matches. 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/fGLHBehd6R">https://t.co/fGLHBehd6R</a> <a href="https://t.co/VPH9DUJQlw">pic.twitter.com/VPH9DUJQlw</a>&mdash; UEFA (@UEFA) <a href="https://x.com/UEFA/status/2096876172495732802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Nepal floods, triggered by a glacier collapse following incessant rains, have claimed the lives of more than 1,000 people, according to PTI, as rescue operations are still underway to look for survivors. More than 13,000 people have been rescued, while the search for nearly 5,000 missing people remains ongoing.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-asia-cup-final-mohsin-naqvi-trophy-controversy-india-1788794153633">Mohsin Naqvi set to attend Women's Asia Cup Final as India favourites for title</a><h2>Champions League Matchday 1 Schedule</h2>Champions League matchday 1 will be played from Tuesday (Sep 8) to Thursday (Sep 10) among 36 teams in the expanded format. Below are the match-ups:Tuesday (Sep 8):<ul><li>Club Brugge vs Aston Villa</li><li>AEK Athens vs LASK</li><li>Porto vs Manchester City</li><li>Real Madrid vs Inter Milan</li><li>Borussia Dortmund vs Villarreal</li><li>LOSC Lille vs Real Betis</li></ul>Wednesday (Sep 9):<ul><li>Barcelona vs Feyenoord</li><li>Stuttgart vs Viking</li><li>Napoli vs Arsenal</li><li>Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid</li><li>PSG vs Slovan Bratislava</li><li>Sporting CP vs Galatasaray</li></ul>Thursday (Sep 10):<ul><li>Fenerbahce vs Roma</li><li>PSV Eindhoven vs Shakhtar Donetsk</li><li>Bayern Munich vs Bodo/Glimt</li><li>Slavia Prague vs Lens</li><li>Como vs RB Leipzig</li><li>Manchester United vs Sabah</li></ul>

UEFA Champions League 2026–27 begins with 36 teams playing Matchday 1 across Sep 8–10. Matches will feature a minute of silence and support banners in solidarity with tragic Nepal flood victims.

The UEFA Champions League, which decides the best football club in Europe, is back for another season. The league phase of the Champions League 2026–27 is set to begin on Tuesday (Sep 8) with 36 teams participating in 18 matches throughout the week on matchday 1 of 8. The Champions League matches, however, will observe a minute of silence throughout the week as a mark of solidarity with deadly Nepal flood victims. The announcement, made Monday (Sep 7) by UEFA, also stated that a banner will be displayed at every match carrying the message "You are not alone Nepal." UEFA Champions League matches to observe silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims "The entire European football family will stand together before this week’s matches to express our deepest condolences and our support to the people of Nepal. We wish them strength and resilience as they continue to recover from this tragedy and its aftermath," Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA’s president, said in a statement.

UEFA Champions League 2026–27 begins with 36 teams playing Matchday 1 across Sep 8–10. Matches will feature a minute of silence and support banners in solidarity with tragic Nepal flood victims.

Champions League matches to observe a minute of silence in solidarity with Nepal flood victims

Premier League Matchday 3 is over, and Liverpool have their first win of the season, beating Ipswich Town 2-0. Apart from them, Crystal Palace also got their first win, beating Fulham 3-2. Manchester City, meanwhile, continue to be at the top of <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/tables/premier-league/2026-27/all-matchweeks">points table</a>, while defending champions Arsenal are second—both with three wins in three matches. Hull, who are enjoying a dream return to top-flight English football, are still third after a draw in their third match against Aston Villa. Below are the complete results from Premier League Matchday 3:<ul><li>Liverpool 2-0 Ipswich Town</li><li>Newcastle 2-2 Bournemouth</li><li>Brentford 1-1 Sunderland</li><li>Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur</li><li>Manchester City 1-0 Coventry</li><li>Crystal Palace 3-2 Fulham</li><li>Brighton 1-1 Leeds</li><li>Hull 0-0 Aston Villa</li><li>Everton 2-2 Manchester United</li><li>Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea</li></ul><h2>Who is leading the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goals/2026-27">Golden Boot race</a>?</h2>Manchester City's Erling Haaland is at the top of the goal-scoring charts with three goals. He shares the top spot with Alexander Isak (Liverpool) and Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), who also have three goals each.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rival-driver-loek-hartog-saves-fellow-racer-ollie-millroy-from-burning-car-in-daring-rescue-at-china-gt-1788757114246">Rival driver saves fellow racer from burning car in daring rescue at China GT</a><h2>Who is the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=cleanSheets&amp;season=2026&amp;position=Goalkeeper">best goalkeeper</a>?</h2>Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis continues to be at the top with three clean sheets in as many matches. Arsenal's David Raya is now second with two clean sheets in three matches.<h2>Who is leading the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goal-assists/2026-27">Golden Playmaker race</a>?</h2>Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) is currently the leader in assists with three assists. Behind him, with two assists, are Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), João Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Manchester City).<h2>Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least?</h2>Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals in three matches so far—eight each—while Manchester United and Manchester City have seven each. Hull City, remarkably, continue to be the only team that have yet to concede a goal, while Arsenal have just one against them.

Matchday 3 saw Liverpool and Palace win, while Man City lead the table. Remarkable newcomers Hull City sit third, standing out as the only Premier League side yet to concede a goal.

Premier League Matchday 3 is over, and Liverpool have their first win of the season, beating Ipswich Town 2-0. Apart from them, Crystal Palace also got their first win, beating Fulham 3-2. Manchester City, meanwhile, continue to be at the top of points table, while defending champions Arsenal are second—both with three wins in three matches. Hull, who are enjoying a dream return to top-flight English football, are still third after a draw in their third match against Aston Villa. Below are the complete results from Premier League Matchday 3: Liverpool 2-0 Ipswich Town Newcastle 2-2 Bournemouth Brentford 1-1 Sunderland Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham Hotspur Manchester City 1-0 Coventry Crystal Palace 3-2 Fulham Brighton 1-1 Leeds Hull 0-0 Aston Villa Everton 2-2 Manchester United Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea Who is leading the Golden Boot race? Manchester City's Erling Haaland is at the top of the goal-scoring charts with three goals. He shares the top spot with Alexander Isak (Liverpool) and Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), who also have three goals each. Also Read - Rival driver saves fellow racer from burning car in daring rescue at China GT Who is the best goalkeeper? Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis continues to be at the top with three clean sheets in as many matches. Arsenal's David Raya is now second with two clean sheets in three matches. Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race? Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) is currently the leader in assists with three assists. Behind him, with two assists, are Jorrel Hato (Chelsea), João Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Manchester City). Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least? Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals in three matches so far—eight each—while Manchester United and Manchester City have seven each. Hull City, remarkably, continue to be the only team that have yet to concede a goal, while Arsenal have just one against them.

Matchday 3 saw Liverpool and Palace win, while Man City lead the table. Remarkable newcomers Hull City sit third, standing out as the only Premier League side yet to concede a goal.

Premier League Matchday 3: Hull City continue dream return, Manchester City & Arsenal still top two

The world of football has been dominated by two names in the last two decades - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both players have millions of fans across the globe, and their rivalry took the game to a new level. The icons, however, have never played a game together, and that could all change come December. Carlos Tevez, a former Argentine teammate of Messi who also played with Ronaldo at English Premier League club Manchester United from 2007 to 2009, may end up bringing the two stars together for his farewell match. While nothing is confirmed, Tevez sounds hopeful of doing something that could be described as a "once in a blue moon" event.<h2>Tevez hopes to bring Messi and Ronaldo together for farewell match</h2>Tevez played his last match in 2022 for Argentine club Boca Juniors and is expected to play his farewell match this December. According to <a href="https://www.tycsports.com/boca-juniors/carlos-tevez-partido-de-despedida-la-bombonera-boca-juniors-id759177.html">TyC Sports</a>, Tevez spoke to Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme, and the chief has agreed to an official farewell match at La Bombonera for the former player.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everton-vs-manchester-united-2-2-maitland-niles-debut-goal-1788708374662">Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton</a>The match date is not officially set, but it is likely to take place on the December 12-13 weekend or the following weekend on December 19-20. Tevez, who played for Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, Corinthians, and Argentina, is planning to invite around 60 football stars, including Messi and Ronaldo. "We will bring them together," said Tevez, while speaking on Olga streaming channel, on Messi and Ronaldo playing toegther.<h2>Tevez's career in numbers</h2>Tevez played 76 matches for Argentina and scored 13 goals from 2004 to 2015, playing several of these matches alongside Messi. He started his career at Boca Juniors in 2001 before playing for Corinthians (2005-06), West Ham United (2006-07), Manchester United (2007-09 on loan), Manchester City (2009-13), Juventus (2013-15), Boca Juniors (2015-16), Shanghai Shenhua (2017-18), and finally retiring at Boca Juniors (2018-22). In 517 appearances across his clubs, he scored 227 goals. He won two Premier League trophies with Manchester United as well as a Champions League trophy.

Legendary footballer Carlos Tevez hopes to reunite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo by inviting both to his proposed Boca Juniors farewell match at La Bombonera, marking a historic first as teammates.

The world of football has been dominated by two names in the last two decades - Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both players have millions of fans across the globe, and their rivalry took the game to a new level. The icons, however, have never played a game together, and that could all change come December. Carlos Tevez, a former Argentine teammate of Messi who also played with Ronaldo at English Premier League club Manchester United from 2007 to 2009, may end up bringing the two stars together for his farewell match. While nothing is confirmed, Tevez sounds hopeful of doing something that could be described as a "once in a blue moon" event. Tevez hopes to bring Messi and Ronaldo together for farewell match Tevez played his last match in 2022 for Argentine club Boca Juniors and is expected to play his farewell match this December. According to TyC Sports, Tevez spoke to Boca Juniors president Juan Roman Riquelme, and the chief has agreed to an official farewell match at La Bombonera for the former player. Also Read - Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton The match date is not officially set, but it is likely to take place on the December 12-13 weekend or the following weekend on December 19-20. Tevez, who played for Manchester United, Manchester City, Juventus, Corinthians, and Argentina, is planning to invite around 60 football stars, including Messi and Ronaldo. "We will bring them together," said Tevez, while speaking on Olga streaming channel, on Messi and Ronaldo playing toegther. Tevez's career in numbers Tevez played 76 matches for Argentina and scored 13 goals from 2004 to 2015, playing several of these matches alongside Messi. He started his career at Boca Juniors in 2001 before playing for Corinthians (2005-06), West Ham United (2006-07), Manchester United (2007-09 on loan), Manchester City (2009-13), Juventus (2013-15), Boca Juniors (2015-16), Shanghai Shenhua (2017-18), and finally retiring at Boca Juniors (2018-22). In 517 appearances across his clubs, he scored 227 goals. He won two Premier League trophies with Manchester United as well as a Champions League trophy.

Legendary footballer Carlos Tevez hopes to reunite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo by inviting both to his proposed Boca Juniors farewell match at La Bombonera, marking a historic first as teammates.

Former Champions League winner Carlos Tevez hopes to unite Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo for farewell match

Ainsley Maitland-Niles marked his Everton debut with a superb strike, which was virtually the last kick of the game to snatch a 2-2 draw for the Toffees against Manchester United. Maitland-Niles's arrival from Lyon on the final day of the transfer window was overshadowed by Everton's failure to reinforce their attack. But the former Arsenal full-back lasered a long-range shot into the top corner in the 96th minute to punish a lackluster United performance.&nbsp;Bryan Mbeumo fired United in front inside the first minute of the second period. But an Everton side short on attacking options rallied to level through Tyrique George. Substitute Benjamin Sesko's header looked to have won United all three points. But the decision not to reinforce Michael Carrick's defence will face more scrutiny as United have conceded twice in all of their opening three games of the Premier League season.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-premier-league-referee-mike-dean-reveals-playing-games-mid-match-1788512131356">Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match</a>&nbsp;A draw maintains Everton's unbeaten start and keeps them one point ahead of United to calm the sense of unrest among the club's fans.&nbsp;A miserable end to the window could still have ramifications for the teams’ performance over the rest of the season.&nbsp;After letting Iliman Ndiaye depart in a £65 million ($88 million) move to Manchester City and Beto to leave for Fiorentina, the Toffees expected to strengthen their forward line with the signing of Monaco's Folarin Balogun.&nbsp;An issue with the USA international's medical saw the clubs frantically renegotiate the structure of a £40 million deal but Balogun turned his back on the move.&nbsp;David Moyes has been left with only one natural striker to pick from in Thierno Barry as a result and only 18 outfield players.The return of Jack Grealish on loan for the season only slightly softened the blow as Moyes faces up to the realities of a possible relegation battle rather than a challenge for European football.&nbsp;Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as United thrashed Ipswich 5-2 last weekend to get their season up and running after a dreadful 2-0 defeat at Hull.&nbsp;The United captain came closest to breaking the deadlock in a first half otherwise devoid of quality when his volley came back off the crossbar.&nbsp;A sleepy start to the second by Moyes's men proved costly as Mbeumo was allowed to bear down on goal on his favoured left foot and arrow a shot beyond Jordan Pickford.&nbsp;United failed to build on their advantage.&nbsp;The introduction of Grealish off the bench lifted the home crowd and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall twice failed to connect sweetly with clear sights of goal. But the visitors' luck ran out seven minutes from time when Hayden Hackney fed George and the former Chelsea winger blasted into the top corner from a narrow angle.&nbsp;Sesko's involvement has been limited at the start of the campaign due to an injury in pre-season, but the Slovenian looked sharp as he stooped to head in Luke Shaw's cross to restore United's lead.&nbsp;The Red Devils never looked comfortable at the back but could not have foreseen the manner of the equaliser.&nbsp;United looked to have cleared the danger with the five minutes of added time up, but the ball broke to Maitland-Niles who swept a curling shot into the top corner.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a stunning 96th-minute equalizer on his debut as Everton twice came from behind to draw 2-2 against Manchester United at Goodison Park.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles marked his Everton debut with a superb strike, which was virtually the last kick of the game to snatch a 2-2 draw for the Toffees against Manchester United. Maitland-Niles's arrival from Lyon on the final day of the transfer window was overshadowed by Everton's failure to reinforce their attack. But the former Arsenal full-back lasered a long-range shot into the top corner in the 96th minute to punish a lackluster United performance. Bryan Mbeumo fired United in front inside the first minute of the second period. But an Everton side short on attacking options rallied to level through Tyrique George. Substitute Benjamin Sesko's header looked to have won United all three points. But the decision not to reinforce Michael Carrick's defence will face more scrutiny as United have conceded twice in all of their opening three games of the Premier League season. Also read| Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match A draw maintains Everton's unbeaten start and keeps them one point ahead of United to calm the sense of unrest among the club's fans. A miserable end to the window could still have ramifications for the teams’ performance over the rest of the season. After letting Iliman Ndiaye depart in a £65 million ($88 million) move to Manchester City and Beto to leave for Fiorentina, the Toffees expected to strengthen their forward line with the signing of Monaco's Folarin Balogun. An issue with the USA international's medical saw the clubs frantically renegotiate the structure of a £40 million deal but Balogun turned his back on the move. David Moyes has been left with only one natural striker to pick from in Thierno Barry as a result and only 18 outfield players. The return of Jack Grealish on loan for the season only slightly softened the blow as Moyes faces up to the realities of a possible relegation battle rather than a challenge for European football. Bruno Fernandes scored a hat-trick as United thrashed Ipswich 5-2 last weekend to get their season up and running after a dreadful 2-0 defeat at Hull. The United captain came closest to breaking the deadlock in a first half otherwise devoid of quality when his volley came back off the crossbar. A sleepy start to the second by Moyes's men proved costly as Mbeumo was allowed to bear down on goal on his favoured left foot and arrow a shot beyond Jordan Pickford. United failed to build on their advantage. The introduction of Grealish off the bench lifted the home crowd and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall twice failed to connect sweetly with clear sights of goal. But the visitors' luck ran out seven minutes from time when Hayden Hackney fed George and the former Chelsea winger blasted into the top corner from a narrow angle. Sesko's involvement has been limited at the start of the campaign due to an injury in pre-season, but the Slovenian looked sharp as he stooped to head in Luke Shaw's cross to restore United's lead. The Red Devils never looked comfortable at the back but could not have foreseen the manner of the equaliser. United looked to have cleared the danger with the five minutes of added time up, but the ball broke to Maitland-Niles who swept a curling shot into the top corner.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles scored a stunning 96th-minute equalizer on his debut as Everton twice came from behind to draw 2-2 against Manchester United at Goodison Park.

Stoppage-time drama as Maitland-Niles denies Manchester United win at Everton

Kylian Mbappe missed a late penalty as Troy Parrott scored his first goal for Real Betis in a 1-0 win over Real Madrid on Friday, ending Jose Mourinho's side's perfect start to the La Liga season.&nbsp;Madrid had won each of their first three matches under Mourinho in his second spell in charge, but Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Mbappe from the spot deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory at La Cartuja.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-premier-league-referee-mike-dean-reveals-playing-games-mid-match-1788512131356">Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match</a>&nbsp;Vinicius Junior hit the post in the first half from Arda Guler's pass across the face of goal, with Mbappe foiled twice by heroic blocks from Natan and Marc Bartra after a rapid Madrid counter-attack.&nbsp;As Madrid pushed in search of the breakthrough, Betis took a surprise lead nine minutes from time when Parrott fired home the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had produced a fine save to keep out Nelson Deossa's header.&nbsp;Republic of Ireland striker Parrott arrived in Seville last month on a five-year deal after his move from AZ Alkmaar, delivering on his home debut the sort of clinical finish Betis fans will hope to see regularly after his prolific spell in the Netherlands.&nbsp;Carlos Espi thought he had equalised with a superb acrobatic finish from a Vinicius cross, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up.&nbsp;Mbappe then brushed the crossbar with a delicate effort before being handed a glorious chance to level from the penalty spot after Natan's crunching late challenge on Vinicius.&nbsp;However, Valles saved his attempt to secure a victory that lifted Betis level with Madrid on nine points from four matches ahead of just their second Champions League appearance next week.&nbsp;"The team played a great game. Sometimes you lose and cannot explain how," said Mourinho.&nbsp;"We were really dominant, created a lot going forward and had plenty of chances. If the match had ended in a draw we would have been frustrated, so imagine how we feel after a defeat."&nbsp;Asked about the incidents in the closing stages, including Espi's disallowed goal and Mbappe's fluffed penalty, the Portuguese coach refused to be drawn into refereeing controversies.&nbsp;"Honestly, I don't know why we lost. We created a lot of chances, missed three or four of them, and their goalkeeper also made three or four exceptional saves," said Mourinho.&nbsp;"I have nothing to reproach my players for. We probably deserved to win, but deserving to win does not earn you any points."&nbsp;Barcelona can move three points clear at the top on Sunday with a fourth straight victory if they beat Valencia at Mestalla.&nbsp;Madrid begin their Champions League campaign at home to Italian champions Inter Milan next Tuesday, while Betis travel to France to face Lille.

Real Madrid's perfect La Liga start under Jose Mourinho ends with a 1-0 shock loss to Real Betis as Kylian Mbappe misses a late penalty and Troy Parrott scores.

Kylian Mbappe missed a late penalty as Troy Parrott scored his first goal for Real Betis in a 1-0 win over Real Madrid on Friday, ending Jose Mourinho's side's perfect start to the La Liga season. Madrid had won each of their first three matches under Mourinho in his second spell in charge, but Betis goalkeeper Alvaro Valles denied Mbappe from the spot deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable victory at La Cartuja. Also read| Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match Vinicius Junior hit the post in the first half from Arda Guler's pass across the face of goal, with Mbappe foiled twice by heroic blocks from Natan and Marc Bartra after a rapid Madrid counter-attack. As Madrid pushed in search of the breakthrough, Betis took a surprise lead nine minutes from time when Parrott fired home the rebound after Thibaut Courtois had produced a fine save to keep out Nelson Deossa's header. Republic of Ireland striker Parrott arrived in Seville last month on a five-year deal after his move from AZ Alkmaar, delivering on his home debut the sort of clinical finish Betis fans will hope to see regularly after his prolific spell in the Netherlands. Carlos Espi thought he had equalised with a superb acrobatic finish from a Vinicius cross, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up. Mbappe then brushed the crossbar with a delicate effort before being handed a glorious chance to level from the penalty spot after Natan's crunching late challenge on Vinicius. However, Valles saved his attempt to secure a victory that lifted Betis level with Madrid on nine points from four matches ahead of just their second Champions League appearance next week. "The team played a great game. Sometimes you lose and cannot explain how," said Mourinho. "We were really dominant, created a lot going forward and had plenty of chances. If the match had ended in a draw we would have been frustrated, so imagine how we feel after a defeat." Asked about the incidents in the closing stages, including Espi's disallowed goal and Mbappe's fluffed penalty, the Portuguese coach refused to be drawn into refereeing controversies. "Honestly, I don't know why we lost. We created a lot of chances, missed three or four of them, and their goalkeeper also made three or four exceptional saves," said Mourinho. "I have nothing to reproach my players for. We probably deserved to win, but deserving to win does not earn you any points." Barcelona can move three points clear at the top on Sunday with a fourth straight victory if they beat Valencia at Mestalla. Madrid begin their Champions League campaign at home to Italian champions Inter Milan next Tuesday, while Betis travel to France to face Lille.

Real Madrid's perfect La Liga start under Jose Mourinho ends with a 1-0 shock loss to Real Betis as Kylian Mbappe misses a late penalty and Troy Parrott scores.

La Liga Shocker: Real Madrid surrender top spot after shocking Betis defeat

Former English Premier League (PL) referee Mike Dean has made some startling claims about quirky things he used to do during his 22-year officiating career. Dean revealed engaging in secret games, such as staying in the centre circle and going without blowing his whistle for as long as possible. His claims, however, have been refuted by the professional referee organization as "improbable" to do without being noticed. Dean was considered one of the most effective referees in England's top-flight football, where he officiated 553 matches and issued a record 114 red cards.<h2>Former PL referee Mike Dean makes startling claims about secret games during matches</h2>Dean, who retired from officiating in 2022, followed it with a brief stint as a video assistant referee. He was on Jamie Vardy's Having a Party podcast earlier this week, where he talked about getting into secret games during matches he officiated.

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"We used to say, 'We’ll kick off now. Right, see how long we can go without blowing a whistle.' I’ve done that a few times in the Premier League, before VAR obviously – [I] went 20, 25 minutes without blowing a whistle," he said.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-vvs-laxman-back-as-india-men-s-head-coach-for-shreyas-iyer-led-side-1788495953574">Asian Games 2026: VVS Laxman back as India men's head coach for Iyer-led side</a>"I used to do another thing. I used to stand in the centre circle – see how long I could stay in the centre circle before I had to leave. That was just me joking about. I got about 15 minutes once," he added.The refereeing organization, Pro Ref, officials are puzzled by Dean's claims. The organization sees Dean's claim of a referee staying in the centre circle for about 15 minutes as highly improbable to do without being noticed, even in the pre-VAR era.Dean's career as a VAR referee came to a halt in 2023 after he failed to intervene in an error during a PL match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea in 2022.

Ex-PL referee Mike Dean claimed he played secret games during matches, like avoiding his whistle or remaining in the center circle. Referee body Pro Ref dismissed the claims as highly improbable.

Former English Premier League (PL) referee Mike Dean has made some startling claims about quirky things he used to do during his 22-year officiating career. Dean revealed engaging in secret games, such as staying in the centre circle and going without blowing his whistle for as long as possible. His claims, however, have been refuted by the professional referee organization as "improbable" to do without being noticed. Dean was considered one of the most effective referees in England's top-flight football, where he officiated 553 matches and issued a record 114 red cards. Former PL referee Mike Dean makes startling claims about secret games during matches Dean, who retired from officiating in 2022, followed it with a brief stint as a video assistant referee. He was on Jamie Vardy's Having a Party podcast earlier this week, where he talked about getting into secret games during matches he officiated.

Ex-PL referee Mike Dean claimed he played secret games during matches, like avoiding his whistle or remaining in the center circle. Referee body Pro Ref dismissed the claims as highly improbable.

Former Premier League referee Mike Dean reveals playing games mid-match

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences.<h2>How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled</h2>Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, <a href="https://x.com/le_Parisien/status/2095120200974614532">reported French newspaper Le Parisien</a> on its X handle.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-retirement-argentina-football-matches-to-halt-in-tribute-to-legend-1788417815400">Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend</a>"Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French).Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym."Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added.According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay.<h2>Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan?</h2>The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities have discovered that Kylian Mbappe, captain of the national football team and Real Madrid superstar, was one of the potential kidnapping targets of an organized crime ring. Mbappe was one of 26 names found on phones seized from 18-year-old Clement L and his associates. The alleged ringleader, Clement, who is currently in solitary confinement in pretrial detention, was charged by authorities on August 21 for organized robbery among other offences. How Mbappe kidnapping plot was foiled Clement, who went by the pseudonym Lester Z, had 26 people on his hit list for kidnapping, reported French newspaper Le Parisien on its X handle. Also Read - Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend "Jailed for organized gang theft and pimping, an 18-year-old man planned to target 26 people. This gang planned to kidnap and assault business leaders, but also a rapper and… the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the post read (translated from French). Details about the kidnapping targets were found on phones seized from the suspect's cell at Villepinte penitentiary (Seine-Saint-Denis). Clement used the name Lester Z on Snapchat and issued orders under the pseudonym. "Two phones were seized by prison guards, and their contents were highly revealing," Le Parisien reported, citing a source. "He also wanted to go after a rapper and the footballer Kylian Mbappe," the source added. According to the newspaper report, Clement and his group are believed to have carried out crimes between April 11 and August 19 in towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, and Santenay. Who is Clement L—alleged mastermind behind foiled kidnapping plan? The 18-year-old dropped out of school during his first year of vocational training in cooking. He, however, told authorities that he wants to resume his education and become a chef.

Kylian Mbappe was named among 26 potential kidnapping targets found on phones seized from 18-year-old inmate Clement L, who allegedly ran an organized crime ring via Snapchat under "Lester Z."

French authorities foil plan of 18-year-old jailed criminal to kidnap footballer Kylian Mbappe

It has been three days since Lionel Messi, arguably the biggest football star, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DctWzhYxElg/?hl=en">announced his international retirement</a> and hung up his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has now announced a tribute plan for the magical footballer. As part of the tribute to Leo Messi for his service to the Argentina national football team, all matches in the country on the coming weekend of Sep 5-6 will be paused in the 10th minute. Stadiums equipped with video scoreboards will showcase various photos of Messi's journey before kickoff, alongside a one-minute applause during the pause.<h2>Football matches will come to a halt in Argentina in tribute to Messi</h2>In a statement released on Wednesday (Sep 2), the AFA said: "For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-brazil-football-friendly-tickets-go-on-sale-and-coach-khaild-jamil-wants-support-from-the-fans-1788410106751">India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans'</a>Stadiums equipped with video boards "must play a tribute video before kickoff," added the statement.Messi, on August 31, in an Instagram post, announced his retirement and wrote: "It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come."<h2>Messi's Argentina career in numbers</h2>Messi started his career with the Argentina senior national side in 2005 and went on to play 207 matches, scoring 125 goals—the highest for an Argentine player. He also featured in six FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), playing 34 matches and winning 23—the most for any player in history.He finished his FIFA World Cup career with 21 goals—the second-most by a player behind France's Kylian Mbappé (22). He won the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and played his last match in the 2026 edition, with Argentina losing to Spain in the final.

Argentina matches will pause in the 10th minute on Sep 5–6 for a minute's applause as part of an AFA tribute honoring Lionel Messi following his international retirement.

It has been three days since Lionel Messi, arguably the biggest football star, announced his international retirement and hung up his Argentina jersey. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has now announced a tribute plan for the magical footballer. As part of the tribute to Leo Messi for his service to the Argentina national football team, all matches in the country on the coming weekend of Sep 5-6 will be paused in the 10th minute. Stadiums equipped with video scoreboards will showcase various photos of Messi's journey before kickoff, alongside a one-minute applause during the pause. Football matches will come to a halt in Argentina in tribute to Messi In a statement released on Wednesday (Sep 2), the AFA said: "For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team." Also Read - India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans' Stadiums equipped with video boards "must play a tribute video before kickoff," added the statement. Messi, on August 31, in an Instagram post, announced his retirement and wrote: "It was a decision that hurt—and still hurts deep down—but I understand that the time has come." Messi's Argentina career in numbers Messi started his career with the Argentina senior national side in 2005 and went on to play 207 matches, scoring 125 goals—the highest for an Argentine player. He also featured in six FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026), playing 34 matches and winning 23—the most for any player in history. He finished his FIFA World Cup career with 21 goals—the second-most by a player behind France's Kylian Mbappé (22). He won the FIFA World Cup in 2022 and played his last match in the 2026 edition, with Argentina losing to Spain in the final.

Argentina matches will pause in the 10th minute on Sep 5–6 for a minute's applause as part of an AFA tribute honoring Lionel Messi following his international retirement.

Lionel Messi retirement: Argentina football matches to halt in tribute to legend

India are set to play Brazil in a historic friendly football match on October 3 in Kolkata at the city's iconic Salt Lake Stadium, also known as the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. It is the first time India will face five-time FIFA World Cup champion Brazil in a football match. Apart from Brazil, India will also face Panama on September 26 and Uruguay—a two-time FIFA World Cup winner—on October 6. The matches, according to India football head coach Khalid Jamil, "will be a turning point for Indian football." Tickets for the much-anticipated India vs Brazil football match have gone live for sale on the District app.<h2>What India vs Brazil means for football in the country</h2>At the FIFA World Cup 2026, India were criticised for not being able to qualify despite having far greater resources than some participating nations, including Cape Verde. These matches against high-profile teams, coach Jamil said, are "a very good thing happening for Indian football" ahead of next year's 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-linkedin-fielding-coach-vacancy-pakistan-cricket-shakeup-1788356845017">PCB turns to LinkedIn to hire new fielding coach after Test shake-up</a>"We are playing Brazil for the first time in history. We must think positively. We must focus on only one thing: India must go ahead. Our main target is next year, 2027, Asian Cup qualification. Before that, we are playing with strong teams. This is a very good thing happening for Indian football,” Jamil said to news agency PTI in an interview on Wednesday (Sep 2)."This is history for India. If anybody talks negatively, he must stop. We need support from the fans. I feel that if the crowd supports India 100 per cent, the players will be motivated and will perform well. It is very useful for the players and for everyone. It is a motivation. It is one step, and then the next step is that we need to play more matches to gain confidence," he added.<h2>Where to buy India vs Brazil match tickets</h2>The India vs Brazil match is scheduled to be played on October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, starting at 7:00 PM IST. The gates will open at 4:00 PM IST for ticket holders, who can <a href="https://www.district.in/events/fifa-international-friendly-india-vs-brazil-buy-tickets">make purchases via the District app</a>. Below are the ticket prices for various stands, which start at INR 999 and go up to INR 15,000:

India vs Brazil Football Friendly Seat Layout

<ul><li>VIP Left / VIP Right: Rs 15,000</li><li>A2 (Left) / A2 (Right): Rs 9,000</li><li>A3 (Left) / A3 (Right), C2 (Left) / C2 (Right): Rs 7,000</li><li>B2, C3 (Left) / C3 (Right), D2: Rs 6,000</li><li>A1 (Left) Gold / A1 (Right) Gold, B3, D3: Rs 4,500</li><li>C1 (Left) Gold / C1 (Right) Gold, A1 (Left) Silver / A1 (Right) Silver: Rs 3,500</li><li>B1 Gold, D1 Gold: Rs 2,500</li><li>C1 (Left) Silver / C1 (Right) Silver: Rs 2,000</li><li>B1 Silver, D1 Silver: Rs 999–Rs 1,500</li></ul>

India will play Brazil for the first time in a historic friendly on Oct 3 in Kolkata, alongside games vs Panama and Uruguay. Head coach Khalid Jamil called it a turning point for Indian football.

India are set to play Brazil in a historic friendly football match on October 3 in Kolkata at the city's iconic Salt Lake Stadium, also known as the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan. It is the first time India will face five-time FIFA World Cup champion Brazil in a football match. Apart from Brazil, India will also face Panama on September 26 and Uruguay—a two-time FIFA World Cup winner—on October 6. The matches, according to India football head coach Khalid Jamil, "will be a turning point for Indian football." Tickets for the much-anticipated India vs Brazil football match have gone live for sale on the District app. What India vs Brazil means for football in the country At the FIFA World Cup 2026, India were criticised for not being able to qualify despite having far greater resources than some participating nations, including Cape Verde. These matches against high-profile teams, coach Jamil said, are "a very good thing happening for Indian football" ahead of next year's 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualification. Also Read - PCB turns to LinkedIn to hire new fielding coach after Test shake-up "We are playing Brazil for the first time in history. We must think positively. We must focus on only one thing: India must go ahead. Our main target is next year, 2027, Asian Cup qualification. Before that, we are playing with strong teams. This is a very good thing happening for Indian football,” Jamil said to news agency PTI in an interview on Wednesday (Sep 2). "This is history for India. If anybody talks negatively, he must stop. We need support from the fans. I feel that if the crowd supports India 100 per cent, the players will be motivated and will perform well. It is very useful for the players and for everyone. It is a motivation. It is one step, and then the next step is that we need to play more matches to gain confidence," he added. Where to buy India vs Brazil match tickets The India vs Brazil match is scheduled to be played on October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, starting at 7:00 PM IST. The gates will open at 4:00 PM IST for ticket holders, who can make purchases via the District app. Below are the ticket prices for various stands, which start at INR 999 and go up to INR 15,000:

India will play Brazil for the first time in a historic friendly on Oct 3 in Kolkata, alongside games vs Panama and Uruguay. Head coach Khalid Jamil called it a turning point for Indian football.

India vs Brazil football friendly tickets go on sale and coach Khalid Jamil wants 'support from the fans'

Premier League side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-equal-british-transfer-record-enzo-fernandez-1788287462735">Manchester City broke the bank to get Enzo Fernandez</a> from Chelsea before the transfer deadline on Tuesday (Sep 1). Fernandez now joins Enzo Maresca, his former boss at Chelsea, at City, where Maresca takes over from Pep Guardiola. City spent nearly $169 million (£125 million)—a British record—to bring Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium. Along with him, they also acquired Iliman Ndiaye from Everton (nearly $87 million / £65 million), Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest ($156 million / £116 million), and Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille ($116 million / £86 million).<h2>Fernandez shares thoughts on joining City</h2>The Argentine international has signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, which means he will call the Etihad home until 2031. Reacting to the transfer, Fernandez, 25, said via his new club's statement: "Manchester City are the most successful club in England in recent times. Every player wants to be part of a club like this because everyone knows how well-run City are. I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies. This is a club built for success."On his goals at City, Fernandez said: "If you look across the squad, City have quality in every area. I want to learn from my new teammates and become a better player. &nbsp;"I pride myself on continually improving my game. Anyone who’s worked with me will know how hard I train every single day and how much I put into matches. I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that will continue now I’m here."<h2>How Chelsea and Fernandez drifted apart</h2>Fernandez had been looking for a way out of Stamford Bridge since March and initially wanted to join Real Madrid. Maresca's unceremonious exit from Chelsea earlier this year also fuelled his plans. He was suspended for two games in March by the club for speaking out after their Champions League exit at the hands of eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. He came back after the World Cup but was booed by fans at training. He featured in the club's first game of the season against Fulham but didn't take the field in the next two games. He scored 31 goals during his overall tenure at Chelsea after joining from Benfica in 2023 for nearly $144 million (£106.7 million).

Manchester City signed Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea in a British record $169 million deal on a five-year contract, reuniting him with Enzo Maresca after his relationship with Chelsea deteriorated.

Premier League side Manchester City broke the bank to get Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea before the transfer deadline on Tuesday (Sep 1). Fernandez now joins Enzo Maresca, his former boss at Chelsea, at City, where Maresca takes over from Pep Guardiola. City spent nearly $169 million (£125 million)—a British record—to bring Fernandez to the Etihad Stadium. Along with him, they also acquired Iliman Ndiaye from Everton (nearly $87 million / £65 million), Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest ($156 million / £116 million), and Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille ($116 million / £86 million). Fernandez shares thoughts on joining City The Argentine international has signed a five-year contract with Manchester City, which means he will call the Etihad home until 2031. Reacting to the transfer, Fernandez, 25, said via his new club's statement: "Manchester City are the most successful club in England in recent times. Every player wants to be part of a club like this because everyone knows how well-run City are. I could not be happier to be here, and I am ready for the challenge of helping City continue winning trophies. This is a club built for success." On his goals at City, Fernandez said: "If you look across the squad, City have quality in every area. I want to learn from my new teammates and become a better player. "I pride myself on continually improving my game. Anyone who’s worked with me will know how hard I train every single day and how much I put into matches. I give absolutely everything and I can promise Manchester City that will continue now I’m here." How Chelsea and Fernandez drifted apart Fernandez had been looking for a way out of Stamford Bridge since March and initially wanted to join Real Madrid. Maresca's unceremonious exit from Chelsea earlier this year also fuelled his plans. He was suspended for two games in March by the club for speaking out after their Champions League exit at the hands of eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain. He came back after the World Cup but was booed by fans at training. He featured in the club's first game of the season against Fulham but didn't take the field in the next two games. He scored 31 goals during his overall tenure at Chelsea after joining from Benfica in 2023 for nearly $144 million (£106.7 million).

Manchester City signed Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea in a British record $169 million deal on a five-year contract, reuniting him with Enzo Maresca after his relationship with Chelsea deteriorated.

Enzo Fernandez reacts after joining 'built for success' Manchester City in record deal

Premier League giants Manchester City have agreed to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in a £125 million ($167 million) deal on deadline day, equalling the British transfer record. The latest reports suggest that the two clubs and Enzo have finally reached an agreement, with City chasing the Argentine for several months. Moreover, Fernandez’s move equals the previous British record set by Liverpool when they signed Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨💣 BREAKING: Enzo Fernández to Manchester City, HERE WE GO! 🇦🇷 Deal in place for fee over £125m after a long negotiation as Chelsea approved the sale. Enzo only wanted Manchester City and he’s now set for medical at <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a>. <a href="https://t.co/R8rGpD24rc">pic.twitter.com/R8rGpD24rc</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2094814268042453369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Enzo’s move sees him reunite with Enzo Maresca – the current City manager, who was with Chelsea earlier before exiting Stamford Bridge in January. Maresca was keen to land Fernandez after the recent sale of influential World Cup winner Rodri to Barcelona, as well as the departures of fellow midfielders Bernardo Silva, Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-matchday-2-recap-perfect-starts-for-city-and-arsenal-bruno-s-hat-trick-sparks-manchester-united-comeback-1788246283781">Premier League Matchday 2 recap: Perfect starts for City and Arsenal, Bruno’s hat-trick sparks Manchester United comeback</a> &nbsp;Fernandez would join England's Elliot Anderson and Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi in City's revamped central midfield following Pep Guardiola’s departure ahead of this season. While Anderson joined City from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, Bouaddi cost £86 million to become the most expensive teenager in Premier League history.<h2>Enzo Pushed for City Move</h2>After learning about Enzo’s intentions of joining Manchester City, Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso had left him out of his squad for the last two games. Fernandez, who signed for Chelsea from Benfica for £106 million in 2023, strained relations with the club after expressing interest in joining Real Madrid, for which he was dropped for two matches. &nbsp;In his last competitive match for Argentina, the defending world champion lost the FIFA World Cup final to Spain in North America. &nbsp;Earlier, he also angered England fans with a provocative celebration of his country's World Cup semi-final over Thomas Tuchel's men, when Argentina won 2-1 to reach successive finals. &nbsp;The 25-year-old has won the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup in his time at Chelsea.

Manchester City have agreed a joint-record £125m deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez on deadline day, reuniting him with manager Enzo Maresca.

Premier League giants Manchester City have agreed to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez in a £125 million ($167 million) deal on deadline day, equalling the British transfer record. The latest reports suggest that the two clubs and Enzo have finally reached an agreement, with City chasing the Argentine for several months. Moreover, Fernandez’s move equals the previous British record set by Liverpool when they signed Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

Manchester City have agreed a joint-record £125m deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez on deadline day, reuniting him with manager Enzo Maresca.

Manchester City equal British transfer record with £125m Enzo Fernandez deal

Premier League Matchday 2 is over for all 20 teams, and Manchester City are at the top with six points from two wins in two matches, while defending champions Arsenal are right behind in second place. Hull City continue to enjoy their return to top-flight English football with a second consecutive win. Manchester United, meanwhile, have bounced back from their season-opening loss to Hull City and have earned their first points with a win against Ipswich Town. Below are the complete results for all teams from Premier League Matchday 2:<ul><li>Manchester City 4-1 Crystal Palace</li><li>Liverpool 2-2 Nottingham Forest</li><li>Bournemouth 1-1 Everton</li><li>Coventry City 0-1 Hull City</li><li>Tottenham Hotspur 0-2 Newcastle United</li><li>Chelsea 4-3 Brighton &amp; Hove Albion</li><li>Leeds United 1-1 Brentford</li><li>Sunderland 1-0 Fulham</li><li>Manchester United 5-2 Ipswich Town</li><li>Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal</li></ul><h2><a href="premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=goals&amp;season=2026">Who leads the Golden Boot race?</a></h2>Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes leads the goal tally with three goals after scoring a hat-trick against Ipswich Town on Matchday 2. Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton), João Pedro (Chelsea), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), and Erling Haaland (Man City) each have two goals.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2026-stan-wawrinka-2016-winner-bids-adieu-to-new-york-after-first-round-loss-1788233290607">US Open 2026: Wawrinka, 2016 winner, bids adieu to New York after 1st round loss</a><h2>Which team has scored the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/tables/premier-league/2026-27/all-matchweeks">most goals and conceded the least</a>?</h2>After two matches each, Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals for a team, with seven each. Arsenal and Hull City, meanwhile, have not conceded a single goal so far in the two matches played this season.<h2><a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/top/players?statMetric=cleanSheets&amp;season=2026&amp;position=Goalkeeper">Who is the best goalkeeper?</a></h2>Arsenal's David Raya and Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis are tied at the top for the Golden Glove award with two clean sheets in two matches played so far.<h2><a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/stats/goal-assists/2026-27">Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race?</a></h2>Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Man City) are in a six-way tie for the Golden Playmaker award for the most assists, with two assists each.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Win</td><td>Loss</td><td>Draw</td><td>Points</td></tr><tr><td>Manchester City</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Arsenal</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Hull City</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Chelsea</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>6</td></tr><tr><td>Brentford</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Newcastle</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Everton</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Leeds</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr><tr><td>Brighton and Hove Albion</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Manchester United</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Sunderland</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Ipswich Town</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Liverpool</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>2</td></tr><tr><td>Bournemouth</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Nottingham Forest</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Fulham</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Coventry City</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Crystal Palace</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Aston Villa</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Tottenham Hotspur</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Manchester City lead Premier League Matchday 2 on goal difference with six points, while Arsenal sit second. Bruno Fernandes tops the Golden Boot race with three goals for Manchester United.

Premier League Matchday 2 is over for all 20 teams, and Manchester City are at the top with six points from two wins in two matches, while defending champions Arsenal are right behind in second place. Hull City continue to enjoy their return to top-flight English football with a second consecutive win. Manchester United, meanwhile, have bounced back from their season-opening loss to Hull City and have earned their first points with a win against Ipswich Town. Below are the complete results for all teams from Premier League Matchday 2: Manchester City 4-1 Crystal Palace Liverpool 2-2 Nottingham Forest Bournemouth 1-1 Everton Coventry City 0-1 Hull City Tottenham Hotspur 0-2 Newcastle United Chelsea 4-3 Brighton & Hove Albion Leeds United 1-1 Brentford Sunderland 1-0 Fulham Manchester United 5-2 Ipswich Town Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal Who leads the Golden Boot race? Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes leads the goal tally with three goals after scoring a hat-trick against Ipswich Town on Matchday 2. Jack Hinshelwood (Brighton), João Pedro (Chelsea), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Anthony Elanga (Newcastle), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), and Erling Haaland (Man City) each have two goals. Also Read - US Open 2026: Wawrinka, 2016 winner, bids adieu to New York after 1st round loss Which team has scored the most goals and conceded the least? After two matches each, Chelsea and Brighton have scored the most goals for a team, with seven each. Arsenal and Hull City, meanwhile, have not conceded a single goal so far in the two matches played this season. Who is the best goalkeeper? Arsenal's David Raya and Hull City's Konstantinos Tzolakis are tied at the top for the Golden Glove award with two clean sheets in two matches played so far. Who is leading the Golden Playmaker race? Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Julio Enciso (Ipswich Town), Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal), Rayan Cherki (Man City), Evanilson (Bournemouth), and Phil Foden (Man City) are in a six-way tie for the Golden Playmaker award for the most assists, with two assists each. Team Matches Win Loss Draw Points Manchester City 2 2 0 0 6 Arsenal 2 2 0 0 6 Hull City 2 2 0 0 6 Chelsea 2 2 0 0 6 Brentford 2 1 0 1 4 Newcastle 2 1 0 1 4 Everton 2 1 0 1 4 Leeds 2 1 0 1 4 Brighton and Hove Albion 2 1 1 0 3 Manchester United 2 1 1 0 3 Sunderland 2 1 1 0 3 Ipswich Town 2 1 1 0 3 Liverpool 2 0 0 2 2 Bournemouth 2 0 1 1 1 Nottingham Forest 2 0 1 1 1 Fulham 2 0 2 0 0 Coventry City 2 0 2 0 0 Crystal Palace 2 0 2 0 0 Aston Villa 2 0 2 0 0 Tottenham Hotspur 2 0 2 0 0

Manchester City lead Premier League Matchday 2 on goal difference with six points, while Arsenal sit second. Bruno Fernandes tops the Golden Boot race with three goals for Manchester United.

Premier League Matchday 2 recap: Perfect starts for City and Arsenal, Bruno’s hat-trick sparks Manchester United comeback

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football. The 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina, Messi decided to hang up his boots for the national side while continuing to play for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS). Messi’s last appearance for Argentina came during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, which they lost to Spain 1-0. Playing his sixth World Cup, Messi smashed eight goals and assisted four times in his best-ever outing at the competition. &nbsp;Touted as the greatest of his time, Messi took to his Instagram handle to announce his international retirement.&nbsp; &nbsp;“After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team… &nbsp;"It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” Messi wrote. &nbsp;Following his father Jorge Messi’s death earlier in August, the Argentine superstar indicated he was calling time on his professional yet decorated career, saying he doesn’t have much left in him to deliver.&nbsp; &nbsp;"There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here.” &nbsp;Messi made his international debut in August 2005 in a friendly game against Hungary, and represented Argentina at next year’s World Cup. For 20 years, he delivered his best for the South American team, having had his share of success and failures on the way. While he realised his dream of lifting a FIFA World Cup in Qatar, alongside winning several international trophies, Messi had also endured many heartbreaks in international tournament finals over the years. But his journey, nonetheless, has been magnificent.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🇦🇷 BREAKING: Lionel Messi statement to announce retirement from professional football. “After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team… &quot;It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep… <a href="https://t.co/tUc8a4upHM">pic.twitter.com/tUc8a4upHM</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2094443749636030683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones. &nbsp;"Thank you to my family for always being there and for being with me throughout this beautiful but difficult journey. Thank you to every coach, teammate and director I had the chance to share it with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments. &nbsp;"I leave with peace and pride, knowing that together with my teammates we gave you moments we once dreamed of. It was crazy to experience all of this with you. I love you! &nbsp;"Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. &nbsp;"¡Vamos, Argentina! &nbsp;“I wrote these words on July 21, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before,” he concluded.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi officially announces his retirement from international football following Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final appearance.

Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football. The 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina, Messi decided to hang up his boots for the national side while continuing to play for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS). Messi’s last appearance for Argentina came during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey, which they lost to Spain 1-0. Playing his sixth World Cup, Messi smashed eight goals and assisted four times in his best-ever outing at the competition. Touted as the greatest of his time, Messi took to his Instagram handle to announce his international retirement. “After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team… "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment. "I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too. I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” Messi wrote. Following his father Jorge Messi’s death earlier in August, the Argentine superstar indicated he was calling time on his professional yet decorated career, saying he doesn’t have much left in him to deliver. "There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give. "Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here.” Messi made his international debut in August 2005 in a friendly game against Hungary, and represented Argentina at next year’s World Cup. For 20 years, he delivered his best for the South American team, having had his share of success and failures on the way. While he realised his dream of lifting a FIFA World Cup in Qatar, alongside winning several international trophies, Messi had also endured many heartbreaks in international tournament finals over the years. But his journey, nonetheless, has been magnificent.

Lionel Messi officially announces his retirement from international football following Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final appearance.

End of an Era: Lionel Messi announces retirement from international football

Chelsea have announced the signing of Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract. The 33-year-old was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning team in 2022 and now joins Chelsea as the club looks to strengthen its goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.&nbsp;Martinez said moving to Chelsea was an easy decision for him and his family. He also expressed his excitement about starting a new chapter with the London club.&nbsp;“I’m delighted to be at this football club,” Martinez said, as quoted by the Chelsea website. “Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon - I can’t wait to get started.”&nbsp;“I want to be successful here. I’m someone who wants to win at everything I do, and I want to bring that here to this football club because it’s a football club that wins titles, so I think it’s a good match. I’m all passion, and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session, to make the club, my teammates and the supporters proud,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-sacks-sri-lanka-as-host-of-2027-women-s-champions-trophy-1788087453776">ICC sacks Sri Lanka as host of 2027 Women’s Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;Martinez began his football journey in the youth system of Argentine club Independiente before joining Arsenal in Aug 2010 at the age of 17. He spent time on loan at several clubs to gain first-team experience.&nbsp;He eventually became Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper towards the end of the 2019/20 season, starting the club’s final 11 games and helping them win the FA Cup. He also won the Community Shield at the start of the next season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/imam-ul-haq-calf-injury-lords-test-pakistan-vs-england-1788079652004">ENG vs PAK 2nd Test: Imam-ul-Haq unlikely to bat in second innings at Lord’s</a>&nbsp;In Sept 2020, Martinez joined Aston Villa. During his six seasons at the club, he developed into one of the top goalkeepers in world football. He made 256 appearances for Villa and helped the club win the UEFA Europa League in May, as quoted by the Chelsea website.&nbsp;Martinez made his Argentina debut in Jun 2021 and has since become the team’s first-choice goalkeeper. He has earned 67 international caps and helped Argentina win the Copa America twice, in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;His performances for Argentina also earned him the Yashin Trophy, given to the world’s best goalkeeper, at the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonies.

Chelsea have signed Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year deal, adding experience to a goalkeeping department that has been a concern for the club in recent seasons.

Chelsea have announced the signing of Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract. The 33-year-old was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning team in 2022 and now joins Chelsea as the club looks to strengthen its goalkeeping department ahead of the new season. Martinez said moving to Chelsea was an easy decision for him and his family. He also expressed his excitement about starting a new chapter with the London club. “I’m delighted to be at this football club,” Martinez said, as quoted by the Chelsea website. “Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon - I can’t wait to get started.” “I want to be successful here. I’m someone who wants to win at everything I do, and I want to bring that here to this football club because it’s a football club that wins titles, so I think it’s a good match. I’m all passion, and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session, to make the club, my teammates and the supporters proud,” he added. Also Read - ICC sacks Sri Lanka as host of 2027 Women’s Champions Trophy Martinez began his football journey in the youth system of Argentine club Independiente before joining Arsenal in Aug 2010 at the age of 17. He spent time on loan at several clubs to gain first-team experience. He eventually became Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper towards the end of the 2019/20 season, starting the club’s final 11 games and helping them win the FA Cup. He also won the Community Shield at the start of the next season. Also Read - ENG vs PAK 2nd Test: Imam-ul-Haq unlikely to bat in second innings at Lord’s In Sept 2020, Martinez joined Aston Villa. During his six seasons at the club, he developed into one of the top goalkeepers in world football. He made 256 appearances for Villa and helped the club win the UEFA Europa League in May, as quoted by the Chelsea website. Martinez made his Argentina debut in Jun 2021 and has since become the team’s first-choice goalkeeper. He has earned 67 international caps and helped Argentina win the Copa America twice, in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His performances for Argentina also earned him the Yashin Trophy, given to the world’s best goalkeeper, at the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonies.

Chelsea have signed Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year deal, adding experience to a goalkeeping department that has been a concern for the club in recent seasons.

Emiliano Martinez joins Chelsea from Aston Villa

At 39, Lionel Messi produced perhaps his greatest MLS performance yet after scoring four goals and assisting one in Inter Miami’s 7-1 mauling of struggling Montreal on Sunday. Down on confidence after losing four of their previous five MLS matches heading into the weekend clash in Florida, Messi’s magic powered Miami to their biggest win this season so far. The reigning MLS Cup champions bounced back in style and netted seven times against Montreal, who are languishing second from bottom in the Eastern Conference. &nbsp;Alongside Messi, Brazil international Casemiro, who joined Miami after the 2026 World Cup, scored his first goal for the champions with a 20th-minute header at the Nu Stadium.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-s-a-special-feeling-harry-kane-reflects-on-being-named-germany-s-footballer-of-the-year-1788000043971">'It’s a special feeling': Harry Kane reflects on being named Germany’s Footballer of the Year</a> &nbsp;Montreal, though, hit back with a 37th-minute goal from Fabian Herbers, with the German midfielder's low shot from the edge of the area squeezing into the bottom corner. However, Messi’s low-curling free-kick stunned Montreal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier in the 40th minute as Miami regained the lead. &nbsp;The Argentine superstar then extended Miami's lead shortly after half-time. Messi's momentum helped him weave through a bunch of Montreal defenders before drilling a shot into the bottom corner to make it 3-1 in favour of the hosts. Having already scored a brace, Messi played a key role in Miami's fourth, laying on a superbly flighted pass to help former Barcelona team-mate Luis Suarez smash one into the back of the net. Suarez made no mistake with the finish to seal his first of the match. &nbsp;Soon after, Messi secured his hat-trick in the 83rd minute, when he latched on to a Rodrigo De Paul pass and delicately dinked over the advancing Gillier to make it 5-1.&nbsp;WATCH Messi's four goals -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Messi puts on a show 🍿 Leo dropped 4 goals and an assists to lead <a href="https://x.com/InterMiamiCF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InterMiamiCF</a> to a 7-1 win over Montreal. <a href="https://t.co/DDWCiNx6EU">pic.twitter.com/DDWCiNx6EU</a>&mdash; Major League Soccer (@MLS) <a href="https://x.com/MLS/status/2093881849743355917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Teenage substitute Alex Shaw added a sixth goal in the 89th minute, before Messi stunned the arena with his rare fourth of the evening to win it for Miami. The 2022 World Cup winner curled in a trademark free kick from the edge of the area in the dying minutes to cap off a memorable outing. &nbsp;The victory leaves Miami in second place in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Lionel Messi scored four goals and provided an assist as Inter Miami thrashed CF Montréal 7-1 to snap their five-game winless streak and climb to second in the MLS Eastern Conference.

At 39, Lionel Messi produced perhaps his greatest MLS performance yet after scoring four goals and assisting one in Inter Miami’s 7-1 mauling of struggling Montreal on Sunday. Down on confidence after losing four of their previous five MLS matches heading into the weekend clash in Florida, Messi’s magic powered Miami to their biggest win this season so far. The reigning MLS Cup champions bounced back in style and netted seven times against Montreal, who are languishing second from bottom in the Eastern Conference. Alongside Messi, Brazil international Casemiro, who joined Miami after the 2026 World Cup, scored his first goal for the champions with a 20th-minute header at the Nu Stadium. Also read| 'It’s a special feeling': Harry Kane reflects on being named Germany’s Footballer of the Year Montreal, though, hit back with a 37th-minute goal from Fabian Herbers, with the German midfielder's low shot from the edge of the area squeezing into the bottom corner. However, Messi’s low-curling free-kick stunned Montreal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier in the 40th minute as Miami regained the lead. The Argentine superstar then extended Miami's lead shortly after half-time. Messi's momentum helped him weave through a bunch of Montreal defenders before drilling a shot into the bottom corner to make it 3-1 in favour of the hosts. Having already scored a brace, Messi played a key role in Miami's fourth, laying on a superbly flighted pass to help former Barcelona team-mate Luis Suarez smash one into the back of the net. Suarez made no mistake with the finish to seal his first of the match. Soon after, Messi secured his hat-trick in the 83rd minute, when he latched on to a Rodrigo De Paul pass and delicately dinked over the advancing Gillier to make it 5-1. WATCH Messi's four goals -

Lionel Messi scored four goals and provided an assist as Inter Miami thrashed CF Montréal 7-1 to snap their five-game winless streak and climb to second in the MLS Eastern Conference.

Lionel Messi hits four in Miami’s 7-1 mauling of struggling Montreal in MLS

England and Bayern Munich star Harry Kane has called his Germany Footballer of the Year award a special honour after becoming the first English player to win the prestigious accolade. Kane received the award at the Allianz Arena before Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga opener and said he was delighted to collect the honour in front of the club’s supporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;The striker was voted Germany’s Footballer of the Year after an impressive 2025-26 season with Bayern.&nbsp;&nbsp;Bayern coach Vincent Kompany was named Coach of the Year, while Giulia Gwinn won the women’s award.&nbsp;“An honour to become the first English player to win Germany’s Footballer of the Year award. A special feeling to receive it at the Allianz in front of our incredible fans. Great to collect it alongside the gaffer and Giulia Gwinn - congratulations to you both!” England star Harry Kane wrote on X.&nbsp;Despite winning several awards during his time at Bayern, this is the first time Kane has been named Germany’s Footballer of the Year. He succeeds Florian Wirtz, who won the award in 2025.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-india-announces-inr-50-lakh-cash-reward-for-women-s-team-1787997971367">Hockey India announces INR 50 lakh cash reward for women’s team</a>&nbsp;Kane received 272 of the 659 votes from members of the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS). He comfortably finished first, with Michael Olise coming second with 203 votes, the same position he secured last year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suryakumar-yadav-aakash-chopra-interview-t20-captaincy-snub-1787996852544">‘How can this happen?’: Suryakumar Yadav opens up on India snub</a>&nbsp;The award is Kane’s third major honour in a short period. Earlier this week, the forward won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals in the Bundesliga last season, making him Europe’s top scorer for the 2025-26 campaign.&nbsp;Kane then helped Bayern Munich win the 2026 Franz Beckenbauer Supercup with a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, although he did not score.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Harry Kane has described his Germany Footballer of the Year award as a “special honour,” becoming the first English player to win the prestigious accolade.

England and Bayern Munich star Harry Kane has called his Germany Footballer of the Year award a special honour after becoming the first English player to win the prestigious accolade. Kane received the award at the Allianz Arena before Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga opener and said he was delighted to collect the honour in front of the club’s supporters. The striker was voted Germany’s Footballer of the Year after an impressive 2025-26 season with Bayern. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany was named Coach of the Year, while Giulia Gwinn won the women’s award. “An honour to become the first English player to win Germany’s Footballer of the Year award. A special feeling to receive it at the Allianz in front of our incredible fans. Great to collect it alongside the gaffer and Giulia Gwinn - congratulations to you both!” England star Harry Kane wrote on X. Despite winning several awards during his time at Bayern, this is the first time Kane has been named Germany’s Footballer of the Year. He succeeds Florian Wirtz, who won the award in 2025. Also Read - Hockey India announces INR 50 lakh cash reward for women’s team Kane received 272 of the 659 votes from members of the Association of German Sports Journalists (VDS). He comfortably finished first, with Michael Olise coming second with 203 votes, the same position he secured last year. Also Read - ‘How can this happen?’: Suryakumar Yadav opens up on India snub The award is Kane’s third major honour in a short period. Earlier this week, the forward won the European Golden Shoe after scoring 36 goals in the Bundesliga last season, making him Europe’s top scorer for the 2025-26 campaign. Kane then helped Bayern Munich win the 2026 Franz Beckenbauer Supercup with a 2-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, although he did not score. With inputs from agencies

Harry Kane has described his Germany Footballer of the Year award as a “special honour,” becoming the first English player to win the prestigious accolade.

'It’s a special feeling': Harry Kane reflects on being named Germany’s Footballer of the Year

Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki’s masterclass against Crystal Palace left his club’s new boss Enzo Maresca stunned on Friday in the Premier League. Cherki scored a brace, and two goals from Erling Haaland helped City crush Palace 4-1, making it two in two this season. City boss Maresca also admitted that Cherki was frustrated to be left out of the starting line-up for last weekend's 2-1 win against Bournemouth in their Premier League opener. The French midfielder, however, responded to the snub in emphatic style in an away clash. &nbsp;Against Bournemouth, he came off the bench to assist twice and later seized his chance to start at Selhurst Park and make the evening all about himself with a stunning display of football. &nbsp;"His performance off the ball was unbelievable. Everyone knows his quality, but when he works hard off the ball," Maresca said of his playmaker Cherki. "He was in charge of Wharton; he controlled him. He's helping us and is going to help in the future. We know he's a quality player. &nbsp;"I think he was very, very good off the ball and was working very hard."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-2026-27-draw-psg-barcelona-set-for-blockbuster-clash-man-utd-face-bayern-1787855264179">Champions League 2026-27 draw: PSG, Barcelona set for blockbuster clash, Man Utd face Bayern</a> &nbsp;The attacking midfielder Cherki insisted his impressive display was still far from his top level. &nbsp;"My performance is so-so. In the first half, we didn't find the space; I played bad," he said. "I need to show them I want to play; I want to score. Next time I want to give the ball around more." &nbsp;Although reports of Cherki’s flamboyance on the pitch and a volatile personality off it led to differences between him and Pep Guardiola, he hopes to emerge as one of the club’s cornerstones under Maresca. &nbsp;"I'm very happy for the win. Pep was a big story. We will start another story," he said. "We want to prove it, and we are here for that." &nbsp;Meanwhile, the PL giants City have made a strong start under Maresca this season, and the former Chelsea boss was pleased with their combative display against Palace. &nbsp;"Probably the first five or 10 minutes we saw how difficult it was. It's a difficult pitch and tough opponents," he said. "After 10 minutes we controlled the game on the ball and off the ball and deserved to win. The intensity on the team has been good."&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Enzo Maresca was left stunned as Rayan Cherki scored a brace to lead Manchester City to a 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Manchester City playmaker Rayan Cherki’s masterclass against Crystal Palace left his club’s new boss Enzo Maresca stunned on Friday in the Premier League. Cherki scored a brace, and two goals from Erling Haaland helped City crush Palace 4-1, making it two in two this season. City boss Maresca also admitted that Cherki was frustrated to be left out of the starting line-up for last weekend's 2-1 win against Bournemouth in their Premier League opener. The French midfielder, however, responded to the snub in emphatic style in an away clash. Against Bournemouth, he came off the bench to assist twice and later seized his chance to start at Selhurst Park and make the evening all about himself with a stunning display of football. "His performance off the ball was unbelievable. Everyone knows his quality, but when he works hard off the ball," Maresca said of his playmaker Cherki. "He was in charge of Wharton; he controlled him. He's helping us and is going to help in the future. We know he's a quality player. "I think he was very, very good off the ball and was working very hard." Also read| Champions League 2026-27 draw: PSG, Barcelona set for blockbuster clash, Man Utd face Bayern The attacking midfielder Cherki insisted his impressive display was still far from his top level. "My performance is so-so. In the first half, we didn't find the space; I played bad," he said. "I need to show them I want to play; I want to score. Next time I want to give the ball around more." Although reports of Cherki’s flamboyance on the pitch and a volatile personality off it led to differences between him and Pep Guardiola, he hopes to emerge as one of the club’s cornerstones under Maresca. "I'm very happy for the win. Pep was a big story. We will start another story," he said. "We want to prove it, and we are here for that." Meanwhile, the PL giants City have made a strong start under Maresca this season, and the former Chelsea boss was pleased with their combative display against Palace. "Probably the first five or 10 minutes we saw how difficult it was. It's a difficult pitch and tough opponents," he said. "After 10 minutes we controlled the game on the ball and off the ball and deserved to win. The intensity on the team has been good." (With inputs from AFP)

Enzo Maresca was left stunned as Rayan Cherki scored a brace to lead Manchester City to a 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

'Unbelievable' Cherki leaves new Man City boss Maresca stunned after Palace masterclass

The UEFA Champions League 2026-27 league-phase draw has set up several exciting matches. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will face Barcelona and Manchester City, while 15-time winners Real Madrid will take on Inter Milan and Arsenal. The draw took place at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco on Thursday I(Aug 27). This is the third season of the new format, which has replaced the traditional group stage.&nbsp;PSG enter the tournament as back-to-back champions after beating Arsenal on penalties in last season’s final. Luis Enrique’s team will now aim to become only the fourth club to win the European Cup/Champions League three years in a row, following Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Ajax.<h3>PSG face Manchester City, Barcelona</h3>PSG received one of the toughest draws, as they will host Barcelona and Roma, while their away games include Manchester City and Aston Villa.&nbsp;Their other opponents are Galatasaray, Villarreal, Slovan Bratislava and Como.&nbsp;&nbsp;PSG’s eight opponents<ul><li>Barcelona - Home</li><li>Manchester City - Away</li><li>Roma - Home</li><li>Aston Villa - Away</li><li>Galatasaray - Home</li><li>Villarreal - Away</li><li>Slovan Bratislava - Home</li><li>Como - Away</li></ul><h3>Real Madrid handed Arsenal Test</h3>Real Madrid will start their Champions League campaign under returning manager Jose Mourinho. They will host Inter Milan, PSV Eindhoven, RB Leipzig, LASK and their away matches are against Arsenal, Roma, Shakhtar Donetsk and AEK Athens.&nbsp;The Inter Milan game will have an added storyline, as Mourinho guided Inter to the Champions League title in 2010 before joining Real Madrid. He has now returned to Madrid on a contract running until 2029.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-women-s-hockey-world-cup-2026-india-secure-fifth-place-with-3-1-win-over-germany-1787845102086">A Moment to Cherish! India defeat Germany 3-1 to finish fifth at FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026, best in 52 years</a>&nbsp;Real Madrid’s eight opponents<ul><li>Inter Milan - Home</li><li>Arsenal - Away</li><li>PSV Eindhoven - Home</li><li>Roma - Away</li><li>RB Leipzig - Home</li><li>Shakhtar Donetsk - Away</li><li>LASK - Home</li><li>AEK Athens - Away</li></ul><h3>Bayern renew rivalry with Manchester United</h3>Bayern Munich will host Arsenal, Real Betis, Bodo/Glimt and Slavia Prague and their away fixtures are against Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Lille and Viking.&nbsp;Bayern Munich’s eight opponents<ul><li>Arsenal - Home</li><li>Atletico Madrid - Away</li><li>Real Betis - Home</li><li>Manchester United - Away</li><li>Bodo/Glimt - Home</li><li>&nbsp;Lille - Away</li><li>Slavia Prague - Home</li><li>Viking - Away</li></ul><h3>Manchester United to face Atletico</h3>Manchester United will welcome Bayern Munich, Roma, RB Leipzig and Sabah at home. Their away games will be against Atletico Madrid, Sporting CP, Villarreal and Como.&nbsp;Manchester United’s eight opponents<ul><li>Bayern Munich - Home</li><li>Atletico Madrid - Away</li><li>Roma - Home</li><li>Sporting CP - Away</li><li>RB Leipzig - Home</li><li>&nbsp;Villarreal - Away</li><li>Sabah - Home</li><li>Como - Away</li></ul><h3>Other major draws</h3>Barcelona<ul><li>Manchester City - Home</li><li>Aston Villa - Home</li><li>Feyenoord - Home</li><li>Como - Home</li><li>PSG - Away</li><li>Sporting Lisbon - Away</li><li>Galatasaray - Away</li><li>Sabah - Away</li></ul>Arsenal<ul><li>Real Madrid - Home</li><li>Bayern Munich - Away</li><li>Borussia Dortmund - Home</li><li>Real Betis - Away</li><li>Lille - Home</li><li>Napoli - Away</li><li>Sabah - Home</li><li>Slavia Prague - Away</li></ul>Manchester City<ul><li>PSG - Home</li><li>Barcelona - Away</li><li>Sporting CP - Home</li><li>Porto - Away</li><li>Napoli - Home</li><li>RB Leipzig - Away</li><li>AEK Athens - Home</li><li>Lens - Away</li></ul>Liverpool<ul><li>Atletico Madrid - Home</li><li>Inter Milan - Away</li><li>Porto - Home</li><li>Club Brugge - Away</li><li>Villarreal - Home</li><li>Fenerbahce - Away</li><li>Lens - Home</li><li>LASK - Away</li></ul>Aston Villa<ul><li>PSG - Home</li><li>Barcelona - Away</li><li>Borussia Dortmund - Home</li><li>Club Brugge - Away</li><li>Fenerbahce - Home</li><li>Galatasaray - Away</li><li>Viking - Home</li><li>Slavia Prague - Away</li></ul><h3>New Champions League format</h3>The 2026-27 Champions League has 36 teams competing in a single league table. Every club will play eight different opponents, with two opponents coming from each of the four pots.&nbsp;Each team will play four matches at home and four away.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-did-everything-we-could-shubman-gill-reacts-after-sri-lanka-hold-india-to-draw-in-second-test-1787843646557">'We did everything we could': Gill reacts after SL hold IND to draw in 2nd Test</a>&nbsp;The top eight teams will automatically qualify for the Round of 16. Teams finishing from ninth to 24th will enter the knockout play-offs, while clubs finishing 25th or lower will be eliminated from European competition.&nbsp;Champions League important dates<ul><li>Matchday 1: 8-10 Sept, 2026</li><li>&nbsp;Matchday 2: Oct 13-14</li><li>Matchday 3: Oct 20-21</li><li>Matchday 4: Nov 3-4</li><li>Matchday 5: Nov 24-25</li><li>Matchday 6: Dec 8-9</li><li>Matchday 7: 19-20 Jan, 2027</li><li>Matchday 8: Jan 27</li><li>Knockout play-offs: Feb 16-17 and 23-24</li><li>Round of 16: Mar 9-10 and 16-17</li><li>Quarter-finals: Apr 6-7 and 13-14</li><li>Semi-finals: Apr 27-28 and May 4-5</li><li>Final: 5 Jun, 2027, at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid</li></ul>

PSG and Real Madrid have been handed blockbuster clashes in the 2026-27 Champions League league phase. The defending champions will face Barcelona and Manchester City, while 15-time winners Real Madrid take on Arsenal and Inter Milan.

The UEFA Champions League 2026-27 league-phase draw has set up several exciting matches. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain will face Barcelona and Manchester City, while 15-time winners Real Madrid will take on Inter Milan and Arsenal. The draw took place at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco on Thursday I(Aug 27). This is the third season of the new format, which has replaced the traditional group stage. PSG enter the tournament as back-to-back champions after beating Arsenal on penalties in last season’s final. Luis Enrique’s team will now aim to become only the fourth club to win the European Cup/Champions League three years in a row, following Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Ajax. PSG face Manchester City, Barcelona PSG received one of the toughest draws, as they will host Barcelona and Roma, while their away games include Manchester City and Aston Villa. Their other opponents are Galatasaray, Villarreal, Slovan Bratislava and Como. PSG’s eight opponents Barcelona - Home Manchester City - Away Roma - Home Aston Villa - Away Galatasaray - Home Villarreal - Away Slovan Bratislava - Home Como - Away Real Madrid handed Arsenal Test Real Madrid will start their Champions League campaign under returning manager Jose Mourinho. They will host Inter Milan, PSV Eindhoven, RB Leipzig, LASK and their away matches are against Arsenal, Roma, Shakhtar Donetsk and AEK Athens. The Inter Milan game will have an added storyline, as Mourinho guided Inter to the Champions League title in 2010 before joining Real Madrid. He has now returned to Madrid on a contract running until 2029. Also Read - A Moment to Cherish! India defeat Germany 3-1 to finish fifth at FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026, best in 52 years Real Madrid’s eight opponents Inter Milan - Home Arsenal - Away PSV Eindhoven - Home Roma - Away RB Leipzig - Home Shakhtar Donetsk - Away LASK - Home AEK Athens - Away Bayern renew rivalry with Manchester United Bayern Munich will host Arsenal, Real Betis, Bodo/Glimt and Slavia Prague and their away fixtures are against Atletico Madrid, Manchester United, Lille and Viking. Bayern Munich’s eight opponents Arsenal - Home Atletico Madrid - Away Real Betis - Home Manchester United - Away Bodo/Glimt - Home Lille - Away Slavia Prague - Home Viking - Away Manchester United to face Atletico Manchester United will welcome Bayern Munich, Roma, RB Leipzig and Sabah at home. Their away games will be against Atletico Madrid, Sporting CP, Villarreal and Como. Manchester United’s eight opponents Bayern Munich - Home Atletico Madrid - Away Roma - Home Sporting CP - Away RB Leipzig - Home Villarreal - Away Sabah - Home Como - Away Other major draws Barcelona Manchester City - Home Aston Villa - Home Feyenoord - Home Como - Home PSG - Away Sporting Lisbon - Away Galatasaray - Away Sabah - Away Arsenal Real Madrid - Home Bayern Munich - Away Borussia Dortmund - Home Real Betis - Away Lille - Home Napoli - Away Sabah - Home Slavia Prague - Away Manchester City PSG - Home Barcelona - Away Sporting CP - Home Porto - Away Napoli - Home RB Leipzig - Away AEK Athens - Home Lens - Away Liverpool Atletico Madrid - Home Inter Milan - Away Porto - Home Club Brugge - Away Villarreal - Home Fenerbahce - Away Lens - Home LASK - Away Aston Villa PSG - Home Barcelona - Away Borussia Dortmund - Home Club Brugge - Away Fenerbahce - Home Galatasaray - Away Viking - Home Slavia Prague - Away New Champions League format The 2026-27 Champions League has 36 teams competing in a single league table. Every club will play eight different opponents, with two opponents coming from each of the four pots. Each team will play four matches at home and four away. Also Read - 'We did everything we could': Gill reacts after SL hold IND to draw in 2nd Test The top eight teams will automatically qualify for the Round of 16. Teams finishing from ninth to 24th will enter the knockout play-offs, while clubs finishing 25th or lower will be eliminated from European competition. Champions League important dates Matchday 1: 8-10 Sept, 2026 Matchday 2: Oct 13-14 Matchday 3: Oct 20-21 Matchday 4: Nov 3-4 Matchday 5: Nov 24-25 Matchday 6: Dec 8-9 Matchday 7: 19-20 Jan, 2027 Matchday 8: Jan 27 Knockout play-offs: Feb 16-17 and 23-24 Round of 16: Mar 9-10 and 16-17 Quarter-finals: Apr 6-7 and 13-14 Semi-finals: Apr 27-28 and May 4-5 Final: 5 Jun, 2027, at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid

PSG and Real Madrid have been handed blockbuster clashes in the 2026-27 Champions League league phase. The defending champions will face Barcelona and Manchester City, while 15-time winners Real Madrid take on Arsenal and Inter Milan.

Champions League 2026-27 draw: PSG, Barcelona set for blockbuster clash, Man Utd face Bayern

The Champions League play-off between French club Lyon and Turkish club Fenerbahce on Wednesday (Aug 26) turned violent, with Fenerbahce's French midfielder Matteo Guendouzi at the center. The Turkish club won 2-1 on Wednesday at Lyon, securing their first Champions League main stage spot since 2008/09 with a 3-2 aggregate victory. After the win, a scuffle broke out between the players and staff of both sides on the pitch and in the tunnel.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-2026-27-draw-full-list-of-36-qualified-teams-format-dates-broadcast-details-1787814223777">Champions League 2026/27 Draw: Full List of 36 qualified teams, format, dates &amp; broadcast details</a><h2>What led to the Lyon vs Fenerbahce scuffle in the Champions League play-off?</h2>As soon as the final whistle blew, Guendouzi—who had already been in a heated exchange with the home fans—rushed toward the corner where the visiting Fenerbahce fans were gathered. He then got into another argument with Antonio Ferreira, Lyon's goalkeeping coach, which escalated into a full-scale fight involving players and staff from both teams on the pitch and leading into the tunnel.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">guendouzi DOVUş <a href="https://t.co/soFe3aqZ8K">pic.twitter.com/soFe3aqZ8K</a>&mdash; memō🇧🇦🇹🇷 (@edin9makina) <a href="https://x.com/edin9makina/status/2092719101248417960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What each side said after the brawl:</h2>Guendouzi, who played for Lyon's arch-rivals Marseille from 2021 to 2024, blamed abuse from the Lyon supporters for his reaction and said after the match as reported:"As you know, when 60,000 people insult your family, your mother, your children, even before the match, and no one from the officiating team asks the fans to keep quiet... because I know that in France, when this kind of thing happens, they reach a point where they talk to the fans and the match can be stopped.For 90 minutes, and even more during the warm-up, they insulted my family. It is something that affects you deeply... They insulted my mother and my family, which I consider disrespectful. In addition, if we are no longer able to celebrate the way we want, I think that is regrettable."Corentin Tolisso, Guendouzi's former international teammate and current Lyon midfielder, offered a different perspective on the incident:"I simply told him to celebrate with his team and to stay humble after the win. Leave the Lyon fans alone, they are frustrated enough. I find this behavior irresponsible. I hope he learns from it."&nbsp;

Fenerbahce beat Lyon 2-1 (3-2 agg) to reach the Champions League. Post-match scenes turned violent as ex-Marseille midfielder Mattéo Guendouzi sparked a brawl with home fans and Lyon staff.

The Champions League play-off between French club Lyon and Turkish club Fenerbahce on Wednesday (Aug 26) turned violent, with Fenerbahce's French midfielder Matteo Guendouzi at the center. The Turkish club won 2-1 on Wednesday at Lyon, securing their first Champions League main stage spot since 2008/09 with a 3-2 aggregate victory. After the win, a scuffle broke out between the players and staff of both sides on the pitch and in the tunnel. Also Read - Champions League 2026/27 Draw: Full List of 36 qualified teams, format, dates & broadcast details What led to the Lyon vs Fenerbahce scuffle in the Champions League play-off? As soon as the final whistle blew, Guendouzi—who had already been in a heated exchange with the home fans—rushed toward the corner where the visiting Fenerbahce fans were gathered. He then got into another argument with Antonio Ferreira, Lyon's goalkeeping coach, which escalated into a full-scale fight involving players and staff from both teams on the pitch and leading into the tunnel.

Fenerbahce beat Lyon 2-1 (3-2 agg) to reach the Champions League. Post-match scenes turned violent as ex-Marseille midfielder Mattéo Guendouzi sparked a brawl with home fans and Lyon staff.

Matteo Guendouzi at centre of brawl after Fenerbahce seal Champions League return at Lyon

The Champions League 2026/27 draw is set to be announced on Thursday (Aug 27). The tournament, which determines the best football team in all of Europe, will have 36 teams competing in the revamped format which became effective last season. The first round, or the league phase, will see each team playing against eight others in a four home and four away format. Below are all the details for the upcoming Champions League season:<h2>Which teams are playing in the Champions League 2026/27 season?</h2>A total of <a href="https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/02a8-2171a88881a0-c70193b972c6-1000--meet-the-2026-27-champions-league-league-phase-teams/">36 teams across all of Europe</a> are going to participate in the Champions League 2026/27. Below are all the teams in the competition by country:Premier League (England): Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester UnitedLa Liga (Spain): Barcelona, Real Betis, Real Madrid, Villarreal, and Atlético de MadridBundesliga (Germany): Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Leipzig, and StuttgartSerie A (Italy): Como, Inter Milan, Napoli, and RomaLigue 1 (France): Lens, Lille, and Paris Saint-GermainEredivisie (Netherlands): Feyenoord and PSVEliteserien (Norway): Bodo/Glimt and VikingPrimeira Liga (Portugal): Porto and Sporting CPSüper Lig (Turkey): Fenerbahçe and GalatasarayPro League (Belgium): Club BruggePremier League (Azerbaijan): SabahPremier League (Ukraine): Shakhtar DonetskFirst League (Czech Republic): Slavia PrahaSuper Liga (Slovakia): Slovan BratislavaFootball Bundesliga (Austria): LaskSuper League (Greece): AEK Athens<h2>What is the Champions League 2026/27 format?</h2>The Champions League 2026/27 is going to be played under the revamped format among 36 teams. In the first phase, which is called the league phase, all 36 teams will be placed in a single group from 1-36. Each team will play eight different opponents in the league phase in a four home and four away format. After the league phase, the top 24 teams will advance while 12 teams will crash out.The teams finishing in the top 8 of the league phase will get a bye to the round of 16, while the next 16 teams (ranked 9–24) will compete in the knockout phase play-offs. Teams finishing from 9–16 will be seeded against teams finishing 17–24 in the league phase.<h2>How are league phase fixtures determined?</h2>For the league phase fixtures, all 36 teams will be divided into four pots of nine teams each. Each team will face two opponents from each of the pots, making it eight fixtures per team.

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Pot 1</td><td>Pot 2</td><td>Pot 3</td><td>Pot 4</td></tr><tr><td>Arsenal</td><td>Aston Villa</td><td>Feyenoord</td><td>Stuttgart</td></tr><tr><td>Manchester City</td><td>Sporting CP</td><td>Napoli</td><td>Como</td></tr><tr><td>Bayern Munich</td><td>Porto</td><td>Leipzig</td><td>Lens</td></tr><tr><td>Paris Saint-Germain (defending champions)</td><td>Borussia Dortmund</td><td>Villarreal</td><td>Sabah</td></tr><tr><td>Liverpool</td><td>AS Roma</td><td>Bodo/Glimt</td><td>Lask</td></tr><tr><td>Inter Milan</td><td>Manchester United</td><td>Lille</td><td>Slavia Prague</td></tr><tr><td>Real Madrid</td><td>Club Brugge</td><td>Shakhtar Donetsk</td><td>AEK Athens</td></tr><tr><td>Barcelona</td><td>Real Betis</td><td>Galatasaray</td><td>Viking</td></tr><tr><td>Atletico Madrid</td><td>PSV</td><td>Fenerbahce</td><td>Slovan Bratislava</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<h2>When is the Champions League 2026/27 draw?</h2>The Champions League 2026/27 draw will take place on Thursday (Aug 27) at 5:00 PM BST (9:30 PM IST) at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.<h2>Where to watch the Champions League 2026/27 draw live in India and the world?</h2>The Champions League 2026/27 draw can be watched live in India and around the world on UEFA's official <a href="https://www.uefa.tv/live/310786">free live stream</a>.<h2>What is the Champions League 2026/27 schedule?</h2>The league phase of the Champions League 2026/27 starts September 8 and finishes on January 27, 2027. The knockout phase will start on February 16, culminating in the final on June 5 in Madrid, Spain.Matchday 1: Sept. 8–10Matchday 2: Oct. 13–14Matchday 3: Oct. 20–21Matchday 4: Nov. 3–4Matchday 5: Nov. 24–25Matchday 6: Dec. 8–9Matchday 7: Jan. 19–20Matchday 8: Jan. 27Knockout play-off round: Feb. 16–17 &amp; Feb. 23–24Round of 16: March 9–10 &amp; March 16–17Quarterfinals: April 6–7 &amp; April 13–14Semifinals: April 27–28 &amp; May 4–5Final: June 5 (Estadio Metropolitano, Madrid)

The 2026/27 UEFA Champions League draw takes place Aug 27 in Monaco. Featuring 36 teams in a single league phase, the tournament runs Sept 8 to Jan 27, ending with the June 5 final in Madrid.

The Champions League 2026/27 draw is set to be announced on Thursday (Aug 27). The tournament, which determines the best football team in all of Europe, will have 36 teams competing in the revamped format which became effective last season. The first round, or the league phase, will see each team playing against eight others in a four home and four away format. Below are all the details for the upcoming Champions League season: Which teams are playing in the Champions League 2026/27 season? A total of 36 teams across all of Europe are going to participate in the Champions League 2026/27. Below are all the teams in the competition by country: Premier League (England): Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United La Liga (Spain): Barcelona, Real Betis, Real Madrid, Villarreal, and Atlético de Madrid Bundesliga (Germany): Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Leipzig, and Stuttgart Serie A (Italy): Como, Inter Milan, Napoli, and Roma Ligue 1 (France): Lens, Lille, and Paris Saint-Germain Eredivisie (Netherlands): Feyenoord and PSV Eliteserien (Norway): Bodo/Glimt and Viking Primeira Liga (Portugal): Porto and Sporting CP Süper Lig (Turkey): Fenerbahçe and Galatasaray Pro League (Belgium): Club Brugge Premier League (Azerbaijan): Sabah Premier League (Ukraine): Shakhtar Donetsk First League (Czech Republic): Slavia Praha Super Liga (Slovakia): Slovan Bratislava Football Bundesliga (Austria): Lask Super League (Greece): AEK Athens What is the Champions League 2026/27 format? The Champions League 2026/27 is going to be played under the revamped format among 36 teams. In the first phase, which is called the league phase, all 36 teams will be placed in a single group from 1-36. Each team will play eight different opponents in the league phase in a four home and four away format. After the league phase, the top 24 teams will advance while 12 teams will crash out. The teams finishing in the top 8 of the league phase will get a bye to the round of 16, while the next 16 teams (ranked 9–24) will compete in the knockout phase play-offs. Teams finishing from 9–16 will be seeded against teams finishing 17–24 in the league phase. How are league phase fixtures determined? For the league phase fixtures, all 36 teams will be divided into four pots of nine teams each. Each team will face two opponents from each of the pots, making it eight fixtures per team.

The 2026/27 UEFA Champions League draw takes place Aug 27 in Monaco. Featuring 36 teams in a single league phase, the tournament runs Sept 8 to Jan 27, ending with the June 5 final in Madrid.

Champions League 2026/27 Draw: Full List of 36 qualified teams, format, dates & broadcast details

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