Lionel Messi will not feature when Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) travel to face AS Monaco in Ligue 1 on Saturday (11 February). The Argentine has picked up a hamstring injury which will keep him out of league action this weekend.

Injured Messi to miss PSG clash with Monaco

Argentine River Plate’s water has turned green due to the presence of a potentially toxic bacteria, cyanobacteria. People have been urged to avoid any contact with the river. Alyson reports.

Potential toxic bacteria turns Argentina's river plate green | WION Climate Tracker

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<p>After the penny has dropped, following Argentina's fairytale World Cup victory in Qatar, superstar Lionel Messi has weighed in on his future and if he can play in the 2026 World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an interview with Diario Ole, an Argentine newspaper, the 35-year-old was open to playing another tournament, subject to a few caveats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Because of age it’ll be difficult to make 2026. I love playing football and while I feel like I’m in good shape and enjoying this, I’m going to keep at it," said Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It seems like a long time until the next World Cup, but it depends on how my career is going.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-messis-argentina-fulfill-the-dream-by-beating-france-on-penalties-in-the-wc-final-544328"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final</strong></a></p>

<p>After Messi won the World Cup in December last year, many believed that he would hang up his boots and announce retirement. However, Messi surprised everyone and said retirement was nowhere on the cards right now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“No, I’m not going to retire from the national team. I want to keep playing as World Cup champions with Argentina shirt," said Messi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His sentiments were echoed by national team coach Lionel Scaloni who said the little magician can keep playing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If he wants to keep playing, he will be with us. He is more than entitled to decide whether he wants to keep playing for Argentina or not or what he wants to do with his career," said Scaloni.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He is such a huge player for us. It is such a pleasure for us to coach him and his teammates. Everything he transmits to his teammates is unparalleled - something I’ve never seen before.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-im-not-gonna-retire-announces-lionel-messi-after-wc-victory-544375" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title</strong></a></p>

<p>The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be an expanded World Cup with 48 nations challenging for the shiny, golden trophy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Messi makes it to North America, he will be attempting to break the record for most goals scored in World Cups, currently held by German Miroslav Klose (16).&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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After the penny has dropped, following Argentina's fairytale World Cup victory in Qatar, superstar Lionel Messi has weighed in on his future and if he can play in the 2026 World Cup.

After the penny has dropped, following Argentina's fairytale World Cup victory in Qatar, superstar Lionel Messi has weighed in on his future and if he can play in the 2026 World Cup. In an interview with Diario Ole, an Argentine newspaper, the 35-year-old was open to playing another tournament, subject to a few caveats. “Because of age it’ll be difficult to make 2026. I love playing football and while I feel like I’m in good shape and enjoying this, I’m going to keep at it," said Messi. "It seems like a long time until the next World Cup, but it depends on how my career is going.” Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final After Messi won the World Cup in December last year, many believed that he would hang up his boots and announce retirement. However, Messi surprised everyone and said retirement was nowhere on the cards right now. “No, I’m not going to retire from the national team. I want to keep playing as World Cup champions with Argentina shirt," said Messi. His sentiments were echoed by national team coach Lionel Scaloni who said the little magician can keep playing. “If he wants to keep playing, he will be with us. He is more than entitled to decide whether he wants to keep playing for Argentina or not or what he wants to do with his career," said Scaloni. “He is such a huge player for us. It is such a pleasure for us to coach him and his teammates. Everything he transmits to his teammates is unparalleled - something I’ve never seen before.” Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: 'I’m not...': Lionel Messi drops a BOMB on his future after lifting the mega title The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be an expanded World Cup with 48 nations challenging for the shiny, golden trophy. If Messi makes it to North America, he will be attempting to break the record for most goals scored in World Cups, currently held by German Miroslav Klose (16). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Will Lionel Messi play in 2026 World Cup? The Argentine gives a hint

<p>World Cup champion Lionel Messi expressed remorse over his actions during the World Cup quarterfinals, including wild celebrations and gestures towards Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal. Messi and his teammates received criticism for their behaviour following their 2-2 draw on December 9 and subsequent win on penalties. The Paris Saint-Germain player ran in front of Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal as he cupped his hands over his ears in celebration of his 73rd-minute penalty goal. Messi had mentioned that the Netherlands manager used derogatory remarks about Argentina during the pre-match press conference.</p>

<p>"I knew what Van Gaal had said but it [the goal celebration] happened on the spur of the moment. I didn`t like what I did, I didn`t like what happened after. These are moments of nervousness and everything happens very quickly," Messi said in an interview in Paris with Andy Kusnetzoff`s "Perros de la Calle" as quoted by ESPN. At full-time, the Argentina captain was spotted arguing with Van Gaal and Edgar Davids, his assistant. During a post-game interview, Messi allegedly yelled at Netherlands goal scorer Wout Weghorst.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/truly-grateful-on-this-day-nfl-quarterback-tom-brady-says-he-is-retiring-for-good-557984">'Truly grateful on this day': NFL quarterback Tom Brady says he is retiring 'for good'</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>'We won the Copa America&nbsp;and 2022 World Cup, there's nothing left'</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Messi stated he wouldn't have it any other way despite the long wait to win the World Cup. In Messi's sixth World Cup, Argentina defeated France on penalties in Qatar to win their first World Cup in 36 years. "I think if I had to choose the moment, it would have been this one. It`s at the end of my career, closing a circle. I achieved everything with the national team I always dreamed of. I got everything in my career, individually. It was closing my career in a unique way. I never imagined that all this was going to happen to me when I started and getting to this moment was the best. I have no complaints and I can't ask for more. We won the Copa America [2021] and the World Cup, there`s nothing left," stated Messi. Messi stated that he wanted Diego Maradona to witness Argentina`s first World Cup victory since the Napoli icon assisted his country in winning the trophy in 1986.</p>

<p>Maradona, Messi`s World Cup 2010 coach, passed away in December 2020."I would have liked that Diego Maradona would have handed me the [World] Cup or at least to have seen all of this. To have seen Argentina as world champions, considering how much he desired it and how much he loved the national team. I think he from above, as well as many other people that love me, gave me strength," Messi said.</p>


World Cup champion Lionel Messi expressed remorse over his actions during the World Cup quarterfinals, including wild celebrations and gestures towards Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal.

World Cup champion Lionel Messi expressed remorse over his actions during the World Cup quarterfinals, including wild celebrations and gestures towards Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal. Messi and his teammates received criticism for their behaviour following their 2-2 draw on December 9 and subsequent win on penalties. The Paris Saint-Germain player ran in front of Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal as he cupped his hands over his ears in celebration of his 73rd-minute penalty goal. Messi had mentioned that the Netherlands manager used derogatory remarks about Argentina during the pre-match press conference. "I knew what Van Gaal had said but it [the goal celebration] happened on the spur of the moment. I didn`t like what I did, I didn`t like what happened after. These are moments of nervousness and everything happens very quickly," Messi said in an interview in Paris with Andy Kusnetzoff`s "Perros de la Calle" as quoted by ESPN. At full-time, the Argentina captain was spotted arguing with Van Gaal and Edgar Davids, his assistant. During a post-game interview, Messi allegedly yelled at Netherlands goal scorer Wout Weghorst. Also read: 'Truly grateful on this day': NFL quarterback Tom Brady says he is retiring 'for good' 'We won the Copa America and 2022 World Cup, there's nothing left' Meanwhile, Messi stated he wouldn't have it any other way despite the long wait to win the World Cup. In Messi's sixth World Cup, Argentina defeated France on penalties in Qatar to win their first World Cup in 36 years. "I think if I had to choose the moment, it would have been this one. It`s at the end of my career, closing a circle. I achieved everything with the national team I always dreamed of. I got everything in my career, individually. It was closing my career in a unique way. I never imagined that all this was going to happen to me when I started and getting to this moment was the best. I have no complaints and I can't ask for more. We won the Copa America [2021] and the World Cup, there`s nothing left," stated Messi. Messi stated that he wanted Diego Maradona to witness Argentina`s first World Cup victory since the Napoli icon assisted his country in winning the trophy in 1986. Maradona, Messi`s World Cup 2010 coach, passed away in December 2020."I would have liked that Diego Maradona would have handed me the [World] Cup or at least to have seen all of this. To have seen Argentina as world champions, considering how much he desired it and how much he loved the national team. I think he from above, as well as many other people that love me, gave me strength," Messi said.

Argentina great Lionel Messi expresses regret over his actions in Qatar World Cup QFs vs Netherlands

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<p>Lionel Messi has revealed that his Instagram account was 'blocked' after receiving 'a million messages', following Argentina's World Cup victory in December last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My Instagram was blocked for a few days because of the amount of messages I received after winning the World Cup," Messi told Urbana Play in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Argentine superstar also disclosed that he ran the Instagram account on his own, without the help of 'any company' or a third person to manage the posts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After La Albiceleste won the World Cup trophy, Messi broke the internet, specifically Instagram with his posts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi's first celebratory Instagram post after the World Cup triumph became the most-liked social media post of all time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The previous record was held by TikToker Bella Poarch who had posted a video of her lip-syncing to Millie B's ‘M to the B’ and amassed 60.3 million likes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as of the last update, Messi's post had beaten Poarch's record by garnering over 75 million likes and two million comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-messis-world-cup-instagram-picture-becomes-the-most-liked-social-media-post-ever-544979" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever</strong></a></p>

<p>Apart from the most-liked post, the Argentine maestro broke another record when he became the second person&nbsp;to reach the 400 million followers mark on the Meta-owned platform behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi was instrumental in taking Argentina to the victory shores in Qatar. The WC win ended a 35-year-old trophy drought for the country which last witnessed the legendary Maradona lift it in 1986.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-lionel-messi-becomes-second-person-to-reach-400-million-followers-on-instagram-544800" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram</strong></a></p>

<p>Messi won the Golden Ball and Silver Boot award in the tournament as Argentina beat defending champions France 4-2&nbsp;on&nbsp;penalties in the final.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Lionel Messi has revealed that his Instagram account was 'blocked' after receiving 'a million messages', following Argentina's World Cup victory in December last year.

Lionel Messi has revealed that his Instagram account was 'blocked' after receiving 'a million messages', following Argentina's World Cup victory in December last year. "My Instagram was blocked for a few days because of the amount of messages I received after winning the World Cup," Messi told Urbana Play in an interview. The Argentine superstar also disclosed that he ran the Instagram account on his own, without the help of 'any company' or a third person to manage the posts. After La Albiceleste won the World Cup trophy, Messi broke the internet, specifically Instagram with his posts. Messi's first celebratory Instagram post after the World Cup triumph became the most-liked social media post of all time. The previous record was held by TikToker Bella Poarch who had posted a video of her lip-syncing to Millie B's ‘M to the B’ and amassed 60.3 million likes. However, as of the last update, Messi's post had beaten Poarch's record by garnering over 75 million likes and two million comments. "WORLD CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! I dreamed it so many times, I wanted it so much that I still haven't fallen, I can't believe it," read the post. "Thank you very much to my family, to all who support me and also to all who believed in us. We demonstrate once again that Argentines when we fight together and united we are capable of achieving what we set out to do. The merit belongs to this group, which is above individualities, it is the strength of all fighting for the same dream that was also the dream of all Argentines... We did it!!! GO ARGENTINA!!!!! we are seeing each other very soon," it added. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) × Read more: Record-breaking: Messi's World Cup Instagram picture becomes the most-liked social media post ever Apart from the most-liked post, the Argentine maestro broke another record when he became the second person to reach the 400 million followers mark on the Meta-owned platform behind his rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi was instrumental in taking Argentina to the victory shores in Qatar. The WC win ended a 35-year-old trophy drought for the country which last witnessed the legendary Maradona lift it in 1986. Read more: UNBELIEVABLE! Lionel Messi becomes second person to reach 400 million followers on Instagram Messi won the Golden Ball and Silver Boot award in the tournament as Argentina beat defending champions France 4-2 on penalties in the final. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Lionel Messi reveals his Instagram account was blocked after World Cup victory

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz met with Argentina's President on Saturday. This visit in Buenos Aires marks the beginning of his inaugural tour in South America. During the meeting with President Alberto Fernandez School Scholz urged a swift conclusion on talks and a free trade deal between the European Union and the Lucasa South American trade block.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Buenos Aires, meets Argentina's President

<p>Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said&nbsp;CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-death-of-possession-football-542811"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: The death of possession football?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the&nbsp;six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the&nbsp;2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition.</p>

<p>"This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said&nbsp;CONCACAF president&nbsp;Victor Montagliani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/copa-america-lionel-messis-trophy-drought-with-argentina-ends-as-they-beat-brazil-397276"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations.

Copa America, the top men's football tournament for the continent of South America will be moving to a new destination for the 2024 edition. On Thursday, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) announced that the tournament will take place in the United States and will be co-organised by both federations. The 2024 edition will witness the participation of 10 teams from CONMEBOL while six teams from CONCACAF will also register their presence. "More and better competitions and for football and its values to grow and strengthen throughout the hemisphere. Without a doubt, both confederations believe in big, and we will work with this orientation," said CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez. WATCH | Gravitas: The death of possession football? × Organising the showpiece event will be the perfect opportunity for the US to have experience under its bag before hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada in 2026. While teams in CONMEBOL will have to take the regular approach in the qualifying rounds to earn a place in the quadrennial event, the six CONCACAF national teams will qualify through the 2023/24 CONCACAF Nations League competition. "This is a partnership to support the ongoing growth of men's and women's football in CONCACAF and CONMEBOL, and will truly be of mutual benefit to both Confederations," said CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani. This is not the first instance where the US has participated in Copa America. It has played in the tournament on four occasions previously, viz. 1993, 1995, 2007 and 2016. Meanwhile, Mexico has featured in the tournament 10 times. Currently, Argentina are the holders of the Copa America trophy. La Albiceleste under Lionel Messi won the final in 2021, beating arch-rivals Brazil in a thrilling 1-0 contest at the iconic Maracana Stadium. Read more: Copa America: Lionel Messi's trophy drought ends as Argentina beat Brazil (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

United States to host 2024 Copa America with 16 teams

<p>The prosecutor on Wednesday appealed to the court to sentence eight rugby players to life imprisonment in Argentina while they were being tried for allegedly killing a teenager three years ago outside a nightclub, an incident which left the nation shocked.&nbsp;After the attack, the authorities kept the defendants, aged between 21 and 23, in pre-trial detention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prosecutor Juan Manuel Davila while speaking in a&nbsp;court at&nbsp;Dolores, which is 220 kilometres (136 miles) south of Buenos Aires, said, "I ask that they be sentenced to life in prison as co-authors of doubly aggravated homicide" as the crime was not committed in self-defence and was "premeditated”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-and-argentina-to-discuss-common-currency-boost-regional-trade-554985">Brazil and Argentina to discuss common currency, boost regional trade</a></p>

<p>An argument had broken out between two groups of people inside a nightclub located in the seaside resort of Villa Gesell on January 18, 2020, after which an 18-year-old law student, Fernando Baez, was attacked by the eight defendants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The players who belonged to a provincial club in Zarate, which is north of Buenos Aires, beat Baez to death. The surveillance cameras caught the images of the attack.</p>

<p>"They formed a circle around (Baez). They all struck him and when they didn't, they stopped anyone coming to help him," Davila said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prosecutor said that, according to the witnesses, racist insults were shouted at the victim by the players as they beat him&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baez family lawyer Fernando Burlando concurred with the request made by the prosecution, saying it was "enough to sentence the defendants to life" behind bars.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the prosecution, the attackers preyed on Baez's "defencelessness, with no risk to the pack”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Brazil and Argentina's initiative for common currency receives push from Venezuela</strong></p>

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<p>"They killed for killing's sake, it is truly inexplicable. They didn't care who. Their plan was to take (Baez) as a trophy. The synchronisation of actions allowed them to build an impenetrable wall around their victim," Burlando said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack ignited protests across Argentina and pushed the rugby authorities to initiate behavioural courses for around 4,000 players.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The prosecutor on Wednesday appealed to the court to sentence eight rugby players to life imprisonment in Argentina while they were being tried for allegedly killing a teenager three years ago outside a nightclub, an incident which left the nation shocked.

The prosecutor on Wednesday appealed to the court to sentence eight rugby players to life imprisonment in Argentina while they were being tried for allegedly killing a teenager three years ago outside a nightclub, an incident which left the nation shocked. After the attack, the authorities kept the defendants, aged between 21 and 23, in pre-trial detention. Prosecutor Juan Manuel Davila while speaking in a court at Dolores, which is 220 kilometres (136 miles) south of Buenos Aires, said, "I ask that they be sentenced to life in prison as co-authors of doubly aggravated homicide" as the crime was not committed in self-defence and was "premeditated”. ALSO READ | Brazil and Argentina to discuss common currency, boost regional trade An argument had broken out between two groups of people inside a nightclub located in the seaside resort of Villa Gesell on January 18, 2020, after which an 18-year-old law student, Fernando Baez, was attacked by the eight defendants. The players who belonged to a provincial club in Zarate, which is north of Buenos Aires, beat Baez to death. The surveillance cameras caught the images of the attack. "They formed a circle around (Baez). They all struck him and when they didn't, they stopped anyone coming to help him," Davila said. The prosecutor said that, according to the witnesses, racist insults were shouted at the victim by the players as they beat him Baez family lawyer Fernando Burlando concurred with the request made by the prosecution, saying it was "enough to sentence the defendants to life" behind bars. As per the prosecution, the attackers preyed on Baez's "defencelessness, with no risk to the pack”. WATCH | Brazil and Argentina's initiative for common currency receives push from Venezuela "They killed for killing's sake, it is truly inexplicable. They didn't care who. Their plan was to take (Baez) as a trophy. The synchronisation of actions allowed them to build an impenetrable wall around their victim," Burlando said. The attack ignited protests across Argentina and pushed the rugby authorities to initiate behavioural courses for around 4,000 players. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Argentina: Prosecution seeks life imprisonment for eight rugby players in murder case

Brazil and Argentina's bid to create a common currency for South America received the push after Venezuela's President announced support for the move. This makes Venezuela the first country to extend support for the initiative on the same day it was announced.

Brazil and Argentina's initiave for common currency receives push from Venezuela

Brazil and Argentina aim for greater economic integration, including the development of a common currency, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Argentine leader Alberto Fernandez said in a joint article they penned.

Common currency mooted by Brazil and Argentina

<p>Brazil and Argentina are mooting the use of a common currency "that can be used for both financial and commercial flows, reducing costs operations." The announcement was made in a joint statement by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Argentine leader Alberto Fernandez quoted by Argentinian media outlet Perfil, reported Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is a positive development between the South American neighbours as the relations between the two nations had suffered a blow under former Brazilian right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-lula-sacks-army-chief-arruda-after-far-right-revolts-554813">Brazil: Lula sacks Army Chief Arruda for shielding suspects during protests</a></p>

<p>"We intend to overcome the barriers to our exchanges, simplify and modernise the rules and encourage the use of local currencies," said the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We also decided to advance discussions on a common South American currency that can be used for both financial and commercial flows, reducing costs operations and our external vulnerability," the article added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-and-germany-must-become-pioneers-to-relaunch-europe-says-macron-554930">France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron</a></p>

<p>Argentina is Brazil's largest trade partner and this plan, which will be discussed at a summit in Buenos Aires this week, will be a win-win situation. As per officials cited by Financial Times, the use of a new common currency will lessen the reliance of South America on the US dollar and give an impetus to regional trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lula's win in the most contentious Brazil elections is likely to bolster the country's ties with its neighbour Argentina. President Lula chose Argentina for his inaugural international trip after taking office, which is perceived as a step towards the revival&nbsp;of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) direction. Bolsonaro during his tenure refused to join the bloc in 2019 due to the presence of Cuba and Venezuela in it.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Another bloc that the leaders are vowing to take back on speed track is Mercosur trade bloc which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Together with our partners, we want Mercosur to constitute a platform for our effective integration into the world, through the joint negotiation of balanced trade agreements that respond to our strategic development objectives," the presidents said in a joint statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Brazil and Argentina are mooting the use of a common currency "that can be used for both financial and commercial flows, reducing costs operations." The announcement was made in a joint statement by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Argentine leader Alberto Fernandez quoted by Argentinian media outlet Perfil, reported Reuters.

Brazil and Argentina are mooting the use of a common currency "that can be used for both financial and commercial flows, reducing costs operations." The announcement was made in a joint statement by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Argentine leader Alberto Fernandez quoted by Argentinian media outlet Perfil, reported Reuters. This is a positive development between the South American neighbours as the relations between the two nations had suffered a blow under former Brazilian right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro. ALSO READ | Brazil: Lula sacks Army Chief Arruda for shielding suspects during protests "We intend to overcome the barriers to our exchanges, simplify and modernise the rules and encourage the use of local currencies," said the statement. "We also decided to advance discussions on a common South American currency that can be used for both financial and commercial flows, reducing costs operations and our external vulnerability," the article added. ALSO READ | France and Germany must become ‘pioneers’ to relaunch Europe, says Macron Argentina is Brazil's largest trade partner and this plan, which will be discussed at a summit in Buenos Aires this week, will be a win-win situation. As per officials cited by Financial Times, the use of a new common currency will lessen the reliance of South America on the US dollar and give an impetus to regional trade. Lula's win in the most contentious Brazil elections is likely to bolster the country's ties with its neighbour Argentina. President Lula chose Argentina for his inaugural international trip after taking office, which is perceived as a step towards the revival of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) direction. Bolsonaro during his tenure refused to join the bloc in 2019 due to the presence of Cuba and Venezuela in it. WATCH | Juice: One of Europe's grandest-ever space missions Another bloc that the leaders are vowing to take back on speed track is Mercosur trade bloc which includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. "Together with our partners, we want Mercosur to constitute a platform for our effective integration into the world, through the joint negotiation of balanced trade agreements that respond to our strategic development objectives," the presidents said in a joint statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brazil and Argentina to discuss common currency, boost regional trade

Brazil and Argentina will this week announce that they are starting preparatory work on a common currency, in a move that could eventually create the world’s second-largest currency block.

World Business Watch: Brazil and Argentina to start preparations for a common currency

Argentina lost half of its seasonal Soybean crop owing to drought in its primary producing area, the wealthy and typically humid middle of the country. Watch this report to know further.

WION Climate Tracker: Argentina Soybean harvests threatened by persistent drought

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<p>A little more than a month ago, Lionel Messi immortalised himself in the history books by winning the FIFA World Cup in one of the most visceral ways possible. Now, a farmer in Messi's home country has paid a glowing tribute to&nbsp;him&nbsp;and in a rather unique manner - on a corn field.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maximiliano Spinazze, a corn farmer in Los Condores in central Cordoba province thought out-of-the-box to show his love for Messi. While most fans were getting tattoos and painting murals, Spinazze thought of designing his cornfield in the shape of Messi's face.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, to achieve the rather unique feat, Spinazze sought the help of Carlos Faricelli, a farming engineer.</p>

<p>Faricelli designed an algorithm that calculated where the seeds needed to be planted so that when the corn grew, it resembled a bearded Messi when seen aerially.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I had the idea to make a code that goes in the seeders with Messi's face as a tribute," Faricelli was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-sports-world-champions-argentina-return-home-to-a-rapturous-welcome-544756"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome</strong></a></p>

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<p>Faricelli&nbsp;added that by using geocoding tools, the machinery knows how many seeds per square meter have to be put in certain places to create a certain contrast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So when this corn grows and an aerial shot is taken, where the plants are closer together and the ground is less visible, a more intense green contrasts with where there are fewer plants and then this kind of agriculture art is created."</p>

<p>He also shared the algorithm with other farmers who wanted to pay their tributes in this unique style as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina won the World Cup last month after beating defending champions France 4-2 on penalties. Messi was the architect of the win and carried the La Albiceleste all throughout the tournament. It was the first World Cup win for Argentina after legendary Maradona won the trophy in 1986.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-messis-argentina-fulfill-the-dream-by-beating-france-on-penalties-in-the-wc-final-544328"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A little more than a month ago, Lionel Messi immortalised himself in the history books by winning the FIFA World Cup in one of the most visceral ways possible. Now, a farmer in Messi's home country has paid a glowing tribute to him and in a rather unique manner - on a corn field.

A little more than a month ago, Lionel Messi immortalised himself in the history books by winning the FIFA World Cup in one of the most visceral ways possible. Now, a farmer in Messi's home country has paid a glowing tribute to him and in a rather unique manner - on a corn field. Maximiliano Spinazze, a corn farmer in Los Condores in central Cordoba province thought out-of-the-box to show his love for Messi. While most fans were getting tattoos and painting murals, Spinazze thought of designing his cornfield in the shape of Messi's face. However, to achieve the rather unique feat, Spinazze sought the help of Carlos Faricelli, a farming engineer. Faricelli designed an algorithm that calculated where the seeds needed to be planted so that when the corn grew, it resembled a bearded Messi when seen aerially. "I had the idea to make a code that goes in the seeders with Messi's face as a tribute," Faricelli was quoted as saying by Reuters. WATCH | WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome × Faricelli added that by using geocoding tools, the machinery knows how many seeds per square meter have to be put in certain places to create a certain contrast. "So when this corn grows and an aerial shot is taken, where the plants are closer together and the ground is less visible, a more intense green contrasts with where there are fewer plants and then this kind of agriculture art is created." He also shared the algorithm with other farmers who wanted to pay their tributes in this unique style as well. Argentina won the World Cup last month after beating defending champions France 4-2 on penalties. Messi was the architect of the win and carried the La Albiceleste all throughout the tournament. It was the first World Cup win for Argentina after legendary Maradona won the trophy in 1986. Read more: FIFA World Cup 2022: Mesmerising Messi’s Argentina fulfill the dream by beating France on penalties in final (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Argentine farmer plants Messi's face in cornfield as tribute for the World Cup triumph

While fires are ravaging the Santa Fe province of Argentina, the government said that much of the country is on extreme alert because of an extended drought in the region.

WION Climate Tracker: Temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius recorded in Argentina

<p>Nearly a month after the epic final of the World Cup in Qatar, football's top governing body,&nbsp;FIFA has opened a disciplinary proceeding against Argentina for 'offensive behaviour'.&nbsp;In a statement on Friday,&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;said the Argentine squad had potentially breached the rules, particularly&nbsp;article 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and article 12 (misconduct of players and officials) in the aftermath of the final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association due to potential breaches of articles 11, 12&nbsp;of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, as well as of article 44 of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022," read the official notification.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Argentine side led by Lionel Messi came out on top after battling hard against 2018 champions France. The moment was visceral as well as emotional and the Argentine squad went berserk in celebrations. However, the merrymakings crossed the line, according to FIFA.</p>

<p>According to various media reports, the Argentine players ventured into the official interview area while celebrating. As a result, the partition walls were damaged while some did not bother speaking to international media, despite the commitments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the focal point arguably was the celebration&nbsp;of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The Aston Villa keeper made lewd gestures with the Golden Glove award he received during the post-match ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked why he did such a celebration, Martinez said,&nbsp;"I did it because the French were booing me, pride doesn't go with me."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentinas-emiliano-martinez-explains-reason-behind-his-lewd-gesture-with-fifa-golden-glove-award-544811"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award</strong></a></p>

<p>His celebration was not well received across the footballing community with opposition keeper Hugo Lloris as well as former players like Patrick Viera criticising the action.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don't think they really needed that. You sometimes can't control people's emotional decisions. But that was a stupid decision, I think, from Martinez to do that. I was really disappointed,” said Vierra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina's celebrations spilled out of control during the official parade as well.&nbsp;After millions of fans poured into the streets of Buenos Aires, the Argentine players were forced off the bus via a helicopter to a secure location.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-sports-world-champions-argentina-return-home-to-a-rapturous-welcome-544756"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome</strong></a></p>

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<p>Apart from Argentina, FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against Croatia, Serbia, Mexico and Ecuador.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Serbian Football Association has been fined $54,000 and a partial stadium closure in its next FIFA match after Serbian supporters made uncouth chants in the game against arch-rivals Switzerland.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-may-have-lost-many-battles-but-won-the-war-544566"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Nearly a month after the epic final of the World Cup in Qatar, football's top governing body, FIFA has opened a disciplinary proceeding against Argentina for 'offensive behaviour'.

Nearly a month after the epic final of the World Cup in Qatar, football's top governing body, FIFA has opened a disciplinary proceeding against Argentina for 'offensive behaviour'. In a statement on Friday, FIFA said the Argentine squad had potentially breached the rules, particularly article 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and article 12 (misconduct of players and officials) in the aftermath of the final. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association due to potential breaches of articles 11, 12 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, as well as of article 44 of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022," read the official notification. The Argentine side led by Lionel Messi came out on top after battling hard against 2018 champions France. The moment was visceral as well as emotional and the Argentine squad went berserk in celebrations. However, the merrymakings crossed the line, according to FIFA. According to various media reports, the Argentine players ventured into the official interview area while celebrating. As a result, the partition walls were damaged while some did not bother speaking to international media, despite the commitments. However, the focal point arguably was the celebration of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The Aston Villa keeper made lewd gestures with the Golden Glove award he received during the post-match ceremony. When asked why he did such a celebration, Martinez said, "I did it because the French were booing me, pride doesn't go with me." Read more: Argentina's Emiliano Martinez explains reason behind his lewd gesture with FIFA Golden Glove award His celebration was not well received across the footballing community with opposition keeper Hugo Lloris as well as former players like Patrick Viera criticising the action. “I don't think they really needed that. You sometimes can't control people's emotional decisions. But that was a stupid decision, I think, from Martinez to do that. I was really disappointed,” said Vierra. Argentina's celebrations spilled out of control during the official parade as well. After millions of fans poured into the streets of Buenos Aires, the Argentine players were forced off the bus via a helicopter to a secure location. WATCH | WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome × Apart from Argentina, FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against Croatia, Serbia, Mexico and Ecuador. The Serbian Football Association has been fined $54,000 and a partial stadium closure in its next FIFA match after Serbian supporters made uncouth chants in the game against arch-rivals Switzerland. Read more: FIFA World Cup: Qatar 2022 may have lost many battles but won the war (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Argentina for World Cup celebrations

Marine biologists in Argentina have returned two green turtles to the ocean who were rescued after they became entangled in fishing nets. Watch this report to know more.

WION Climate Tracker | Two rescued sea turtles released back to ocean in Argentina after detox

<p>The Qatar World Cup ended on December 18, 2022. However, many have still not moved on from the epic finale which took place between eventual winners Argentina and defending champions France. It was a memorable affair, at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, where Argentina and France stretched the game to the penalty shootout, after a 3-3 scoreline, where Lionel Messi &amp; Co. edged past the French line-up with a 4-2 margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After a much-deserved time-off post the historic World Cup triumph, Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates&nbsp;and support staff&nbsp;at the Parc des Princes. In addition, he was presented with a special trophy at the felicitation ceremony. <strong>Here's the video of Messi's return to the PSG camp:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A guard of honour for our World Champion! 👏❤️💙<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BravoLeo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BravoLeo</a> <a href="https://t.co/OHIkKALbUl">pic.twitter.com/OHIkKALbUl</a></p>
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) <a href="https://twitter.com/PSG_English/status/1610583784109539329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldo-makes-an-embarrassing-geographical-gaffe-during-al-nassr-unveiling-549210">WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo makes a geographical gaffe during Al-Nassr unveiling</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about the PSG camp, the French club suffered their first defeat of the Ligue 1 season to Lens (losing by a 3-1 margin). Messi was absent for the clash as he had requested for a break. The Argentine captain celebrated his country's WC win with his family and friends before reuniting with his PSG mates. He will now be eager to take PSG back to winning ways. Despite their recent defeat, the club remains atop of the league table with 44 points, four more than 2nd-placed Lens.</p>

<p>Messi, who won the Golden Boot Award in the FIFA WC 2022 edition in Qatar, will like to begin the new season on a fresh note and continue to be among the goal-scorers. He ended the FIFA WC with as many as seven goals and three assists.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


The Qatar World Cup ended on December 18, 2022. However, many have still not moved on from the epic finale which took place between eventual winners Argentina and defending champions France.

The Qatar World Cup ended on December 18, 2022. However, many have still not moved on from the epic finale which took place between eventual winners Argentina and defending champions France. It was a memorable affair, at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, where Argentina and France stretched the game to the penalty shootout, after a 3-3 scoreline, where Lionel Messi & Co. edged past the French line-up with a 4-2 margin. After a much-deserved time-off post the historic World Cup triumph, Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates and support staff at the Parc des Princes. In addition, he was presented with a special trophy at the felicitation ceremony. Here's the video of Messi's return to the PSG camp: A guard of honour for our World Champion! 👏❤️💙#BravoLeo pic.twitter.com/OHIkKALbUl — Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) January 4, 2023 × Also read: WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo makes a geographical gaffe during Al-Nassr unveiling Talking about the PSG camp, the French club suffered their first defeat of the Ligue 1 season to Lens (losing by a 3-1 margin). Messi was absent for the clash as he had requested for a break. The Argentine captain celebrated his country's WC win with his family and friends before reuniting with his PSG mates. He will now be eager to take PSG back to winning ways. Despite their recent defeat, the club remains atop of the league table with 44 points, four more than 2nd-placed Lens. Messi, who won the Golden Boot Award in the FIFA WC 2022 edition in Qatar, will like to begin the new season on a fresh note and continue to be among the goal-scorers. He ended the FIFA WC with as many as seven goals and three assists.

WATCH: Heartwarming! World Cup champion Lionel Messi receives guard of honour from PSG teammates

<p>On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys. After BCCI secretary Jay Shah received one last week, Ziva also got her wish fulfilled and was on cloud nine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ziva shared the pictures of the Argentina jersey on her Instagram account, handled by her parents, and the post read, "Like father, like daughter"&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>Here's the viral post:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CmrNmvUIzr2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ZIVA SINGH DHONI (@ziva_singh_dhoni)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/greatest-footballer-in-my-lifetime-ronaldo-or-messi-liverpool-manager-jurgen-klopp-shares-his-pick-547067">'Greatest footballer in my lifetime': Ronaldo or Messi? Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shares his pick</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Dhoni is a huge football fan and also a Messi follower. He is not active on social media platforms -- especially following his international retirement -- but his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva continue to post regularly on the social media platforms. The former Indian captain is enjoying his break and will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming IPL 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Messi, the 35-year-old had a memorable run in the Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals and leading his side to the coveted title. He also won the Golden Ball award for the second time after the summit clash, where Argentina defeated France 4-2 in penalties after the match ended in a riveting 3-3 scoreline.</p>


On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys.

On Tuesday (December 27), MS Dhoni's daughter Ziva broke the internet as she flaunted a Lionel Messi-signed Argentina jersey. Ever since Argentina broke their 36-year World Cup drought by winning the Qatar 2022 finale, the legendary footballer has made sure to be there for his fans and send out his signed jerseys. After BCCI secretary Jay Shah received one last week, Ziva also got her wish fulfilled and was on cloud nine. Ziva shared the pictures of the Argentina jersey on her Instagram account, handled by her parents, and the post read, "Like father, like daughter" Here's the viral post: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZIVA SINGH DHONI (@ziva_singh_dhoni) × Also read: 'Greatest footballer in my lifetime': Ronaldo or Messi? Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shares his pick It is to be noted that Dhoni is a huge football fan and also a Messi follower. He is not active on social media platforms -- especially following his international retirement -- but his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva continue to post regularly on the social media platforms. The former Indian captain is enjoying his break and will return to the 22-yard cricket strip during the forthcoming IPL 2023. For Messi, the 35-year-old had a memorable run in the Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals and leading his side to the coveted title. He also won the Golden Ball award for the second time after the summit clash, where Argentina defeated France 4-2 in penalties after the match ended in a riveting 3-3 scoreline.

VIRAL: Ziva Dhoni breaks the internet as she flaunts Lionel Messi's signed Argentina jersey - See pics

Lionel Messi led Argentina to a third World Cup title last week in Qatar and ended the nation's 36-year wait for the biggest trophy in Football. Messi joined the pantheon of greats by finally achieving his childhood dream of winning the FIFA World Cup. Is he now the greatest to have played the game? Priyanka Sharma weighs in on the debate on Gravitas Plus.

Gravitas Plus | Argentina's New Messiah: The World is swept away by Messi-Mania

Emi Martinez has become a household name after the 2022 FIFA World Cup. After winning the Golden Glove, he has been making headlines with his off-field gesture as the 30-year-old celebrated his award with a gesture in front of Qatari officials - that is the allegation leveled against him.

Argentina's goalkeeper Emi Martinez mocks France's Mbappe again

<p>World Cup winners Argentina have risen to second in the FIFA rankings with quarter-finalists Brazil still top, the global governing body announced on Thursday.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi's side, who lifted the trophy in Qatar on Sunday, move up one place, as do runners-up France, who are now third, with Belgium dropping to fourth.</p>

<p>Last weekend's final was decided on penalties and if one side had won the match after 90 minutes then, according to FIFA regulations, they would have gone above Brazil.</p>

<p>Croatia have moved from 12th to 7th after finishing third in the tournament with fourth-placed Morocco now 11th as the highest positioned African nation.</p>

<p><strong>FIFA rankings top 10:</strong></p>

<p>1. Brazil 1840.77 points</p>

<p>2. Argentina 1838.38</p>

<p>3. France 1823.39</p>

<p>4. Belgium 1781.30</p>

<p>5. England 1774.19</p>

<p>6. Netherlands 1740.92</p>

<p>7. Croatia 1727.62</p>

<p>8. Italy 1723.56</p>

<p>9. Portugal 1702.54</p>

<p>10. Spain 1692.71</p>

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World Cup winners Argentina have risen to second in the FIFA rankings with quarter-finalists Brazil still top, the global governing body announced on Thursday. Lionel Messi's side, who lifted the trophy in Qatar on Sunday, move up one place, as do runners-up France, who are now third, with Belgium dropping to fourth.

World Cup winners Argentina have risen to second in the FIFA rankings with quarter-finalists Brazil still top, the global governing body announced on Thursday. Lionel Messi's side, who lifted the trophy in Qatar on Sunday, move up one place, as do runners-up France, who are now third, with Belgium dropping to fourth. Last weekend's final was decided on penalties and if one side had won the match after 90 minutes then, according to FIFA regulations, they would have gone above Brazil. Croatia have moved from 12th to 7th after finishing third in the tournament with fourth-placed Morocco now 11th as the highest positioned African nation. FIFA rankings top 10: 1. Brazil 1840.77 points 2. Argentina 1838.38 3. France 1823.39 4. Belgium 1781.30 5. England 1774.19 6. Netherlands 1740.92 7. Croatia 1727.62 8. Italy 1723.56 9. Portugal 1702.54 10. Spain 1692.71

World Cup winners Argentina up to second in FIFA rankings

A few days after the Argentina team won the 2022 FIFA World Cup defeating France in a penalty shootout, many Argentine fans have paid tribute to the success by getting tattoos.

Argentina fans go crazy for World Cup tattoos

<p>Lionel Messi is all set to extend his contract with French champions Paris Saint-Germain for one more year, according to Le Parisien. Reports have been circulating about potential interests from FC Barcelona and Inter Miami but he is likely to team up once again with Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.</p>

<p>Messi created history by guiding Argentina to their first FIFA World Cup title after 36 years and ended the tournament as the winner of the Golden Ball. He scored seven goals in the competition and finished second only behind French youngster Mbappe with eight goals.</p>

<p>The report claimed that the agreement was reached during the World Cup with Messi’s father Jorge leading the discussions with the PSG owners. While Mbappe has already returned to training in Paris, Messi is currently on vacation with his family and will have further conversations with the management once he returns. PSG has been pushing for a contract extension in the last few months.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-likely-replace-rohit-sharma-as-indias-white-ball-captain-report-545394">Pandya likely to replace Rohit as India's white ball captain: Report</a></p>

<p>Messi had a shaky start to his life in France with reports claiming that he was unsettled and looking to return to FC Barcelona. Even the Spanish club amplified their efforts to bring him back with conversations with his representatives. However, it seems that the move did not materialise and another year in PSG will allow him to fight for the Ligue 1 as well as the Champions League title.</p>

<p>The victory at the FIFA World Cup 2022 also boosted his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or title for the eighth time. Earlier, reports claimed that he did not intend to join MLS side Inter Miami at any point but still held meetings with owner David Beckham out of respect.</p>

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Lionel Messi is all set to extend his contract with French champions Paris Saint-Germain for one more year, according to Le Parisien. Reports have been circulating about potential interests from FC Barcelona and Inter Miami but he is likely to team up once again with Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

Lionel Messi is all set to extend his contract with French champions Paris Saint-Germain for one more year, according to Le Parisien. Reports have been circulating about potential interests from FC Barcelona and Inter Miami but he is likely to team up once again with Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. Messi created history by guiding Argentina to their first FIFA World Cup title after 36 years and ended the tournament as the winner of the Golden Ball. He scored seven goals in the competition and finished second only behind French youngster Mbappe with eight goals. The report claimed that the agreement was reached during the World Cup with Messi’s father Jorge leading the discussions with the PSG owners. While Mbappe has already returned to training in Paris, Messi is currently on vacation with his family and will have further conversations with the management once he returns. PSG has been pushing for a contract extension in the last few months. Also read | Pandya likely to replace Rohit as India's white ball captain: Report Messi had a shaky start to his life in France with reports claiming that he was unsettled and looking to return to FC Barcelona. Even the Spanish club amplified their efforts to bring him back with conversations with his representatives. However, it seems that the move did not materialise and another year in PSG will allow him to fight for the Ligue 1 as well as the Champions League title. The victory at the FIFA World Cup 2022 also boosted his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or title for the eighth time. Earlier, reports claimed that he did not intend to join MLS side Inter Miami at any point but still held meetings with owner David Beckham out of respect.

Lionel Messi to sign one-year extension with Paris Saint-Germain: Report

<p>Argentina’s football players were forced to ditch their open-top bus parade for a helicopter ride in Buenos Aires as millions of ecstatic fans swarmed the city to greet the World Cup champions.</p>

<p>Millions of fans gathered in 30-kilometre planned parade routes in the capital, making it difficult for the bus carrying players to move&nbsp;forward on the streets. According to local estimates, around four to five million people lined up on the streets to see their heroes in flesh after their victory over France in the World Cup final.</p>

<p>"The World Champions are flying over the parade route in helicopters because it was impossible to continue on the ground due to the explosion of popular joy," presidential spokeswoman Gabriela Cerruti said on Twitter.</p>

<p>Videos surfacing on social media showed fans jumping onto the top deck of the bus at one point when it passed underneath a bridge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Argentina team is currently flying over Buenos Aires by helicopter as it got impossible for the bus to proceed across the wall of 4 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE STREET!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/59lghdLVy1">pic.twitter.com/59lghdLVy1</a></p>
— Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) <a href="https://twitter.com/tancredipalmeri/status/1605276978046767104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The largest congregation was witnessed at the iconic Obelisk monument in the centre of Buenos Aires that has for decades been the epicentre of sporting celebrations, reports AFP news agency.</p>

<p>The president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Claudio Tapia, blamed the police for the decision to abandon the bus tour.</p>

<p>"They are not allowing us to go and greet all the people at the Obelisk. The same security agencies that escorted us are not allowing us to continue. Thousands of apologies in the name of all the champion players. It's a shame," said Tapia on Twitter.</p>

<p>The team arrived in the early hours of Tuesday morning from Qatar and left the Argentine Football Association (AFA) training complex on the 30-kilometre journey to the centre of the capital at 11:45 local time (14:45 GMT).</p>

<p>Their parade was supposed to conclude at the capital city's iconic Obelisk monument.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Argentina’s football players were forced to ditch their open-top bus parade for a helicopter ride in Buenos Aires as millions of ecstatic fans swarmed the city to greet the World Cup champions.

Argentina’s football players were forced to ditch their open-top bus parade for a helicopter ride in Buenos Aires as millions of ecstatic fans swarmed the city to greet the World Cup champions. Millions of fans gathered in 30-kilometre planned parade routes in the capital, making it difficult for the bus carrying players to move forward on the streets. According to local estimates, around four to five million people lined up on the streets to see their heroes in flesh after their victory over France in the World Cup final. "The World Champions are flying over the parade route in helicopters because it was impossible to continue on the ground due to the explosion of popular joy," presidential spokeswoman Gabriela Cerruti said on Twitter. Videos surfacing on social media showed fans jumping onto the top deck of the bus at one point when it passed underneath a bridge. Argentina team is currently flying over Buenos Aires by helicopter as it got impossible for the bus to proceed across the wall of 4 MILLION PEOPLE IN THE STREET! pic.twitter.com/59lghdLVy1 — Tancredi Palmeri (@tancredipalmeri) December 20, 2022 × The largest congregation was witnessed at the iconic Obelisk monument in the centre of Buenos Aires that has for decades been the epicentre of sporting celebrations, reports AFP news agency. The president of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), Claudio Tapia, blamed the police for the decision to abandon the bus tour. "They are not allowing us to go and greet all the people at the Obelisk. The same security agencies that escorted us are not allowing us to continue. Thousands of apologies in the name of all the champion players. It's a shame," said Tapia on Twitter. The team arrived in the early hours of Tuesday morning from Qatar and left the Argentine Football Association (AFA) training complex on the 30-kilometre journey to the centre of the capital at 11:45 local time (14:45 GMT). Their parade was supposed to conclude at the capital city's iconic Obelisk monument. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Argentina forced to abandon World Cup victory parade as millions choke the route

The grand celebrations of Buenos Aires may have been cut short but it also allowed Argentina captain Lionel Messi to head home early. The 35-year-old returned to his home city of Rosario after winning. Messi arrived at the Rosario International Airport with teammates De Maria and Dybala.

Messi returns to hometown Rosario after winning FIFA World Cup

Lionel Messi of Argentina is the focus of all media attention, as it should be. The "Little Genius" won the World Cup at the fifth attempt, proving that the last dance, if that is what it was, was the best. But without the other Lionel, it would not have happened. The golden rule of football is that the stars shine brightest when the side as a whole is balanced, and rookie coach Lionel Scaloni is in charge of providing Messi with the best, most cohesive team of his lengthy international career.

WION Fineprint | Scaloni: The other Lionel

Heroes welcome for Messi & Co. is being witnessed as they arrive in Buenos Aires after winning the FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi-led Argentina national football team beat France to lift the World Cup in Qatar.

Homecoming: National holiday declared in Argentina after the massive FIFA World Cup victory

Argentina forced to abandon World Cup victory parade

Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad arrived home to a jubilant Buenos Aires in the early hours of Tuesday morning, with massive crowds lining the streets and cheering their champions’ return.

#CHAMPIONS Argentina given grand welcome in Buenos Aires

Argentina's World Cup winners led by captain Lionel Messi returned home from Qatar on Tuesday ahead of a welcome home party in the nation's capital.

WION Sports: World champions Argentina return home to a rapturous welcome

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