The Israel Football Association said&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;that it had not received an official cancellation of the upcoming Israel-Argentina friendly, noting that it intends to issue a formal complaint to FIFA. 
 
IFA president Ofer Eini said at a press conference in Tel Aviv that his association asked Argentina to clarify the rumours circulating since Tuesday night about the cancellation of the friendly in Jerusalem, scheduled for&nbsp;Saturday, but no response had yet been received. 
 
Eini reiterated that the IFA has contacted FIFA and will present a formal complaint about the matter. 
 
For his part, the head of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia, said the cancellation was motivated by threats received by the South American team. 
 
Tapia apologized to all Argentines living in Israel and all Israelis who bought tickets to watch the match. 
 
Earlier&nbsp;on Wednesday, the president of the Palestinian Football Association, Jibril Rajoub, accused Israel of trying to use superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national soccer team as political tools when the friendly's venue was changed from the Israeli coastal city of Haifa to the contested and occupied city of Jerusalem. 
 
Palestinians consider East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six Day War and annexed in 1980, to be the capital of their future state.

Eini reiterated that the Israel Football Association (IFA) has contacted FIFA and will present a formal complaint about the matter

The Israel Football Association said on Wednesday that it had not received an official cancellation of the upcoming Israel-Argentina friendly, noting that it intends to issue a formal complaint to FIFA. IFA president Ofer Eini said at a press conference in Tel Aviv that his association asked Argentina to clarify the rumours circulating since Tuesday night about the cancellation of the friendly in Jerusalem, scheduled for Saturday, but no response had yet been received. Eini reiterated that the IFA has contacted FIFA and will present a formal complaint about the matter. For his part, the head of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia, said the cancellation was motivated by threats received by the South American team. Tapia apologized to all Argentines living in Israel and all Israelis who bought tickets to watch the match. Earlier on Wednesday, the president of the Palestinian Football Association, Jibril Rajoub, accused Israel of trying to use superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national soccer team as political tools when the friendly's venue was changed from the Israeli coastal city of Haifa to the contested and occupied city of Jerusalem. Palestinians consider East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six Day War and annexed in 1980, to be the capital of their future state.

IFA: We've received no confirmation of Israel-Argentina friendly cancellation

The Israel embassy said today the much-awaited Argentina-Israel World Cup friendly due to be played in a west Jerusalem stadium on Saturday has been cancelled.

The match had created great hype with Argentina star Lionel Messi likely to play, however, it took a political turn after Palestinian FA chief Jibril Rajoub wrote to Claudio Tapia, the head of the Argentinian FA, last week accusing Israel of using the match as a "political tool".

Jerusalem's Teddy Kollek Stadium was due to host Messi's all-star line-up just days ahead of the World Cup but Palestinian FA chief in an angry reaction accused the Israeli government of turning football into a "political tool".

Rajoub later went on to declare that Messi would be personally targetted and called on Palestinian football fans to "burn his picture and his shirt and to abandon him."&nbsp;

Although Argentina has played in Israel earlier but circumstances have changed considerably after the US moved its embassy to &nbsp;Jerusalem last month and recognised the holy city as the official capital of Israel leading to widespread protests in West Bank which led to several deaths as Palestinians clashed with Israeli forces.

Later, Guatemala and Honduras also opened their embassy in Jerusalem leading to further discontentment among the Palestinians.

Argentina has been drawn in World Cup Group D and will open their campaign against Iceland in Moscow on June 16. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Rajoub later went on to declare that Messi will be personally targetted

The Israel embassy said today the much-awaited Argentina-Israel World Cup friendly due to be played in a west Jerusalem stadium on Saturday has been cancelled. The match had created great hype with Argentina star Lionel Messi likely to play, however, it took a political turn after Palestinian FA chief Jibril Rajoub wrote to Claudio Tapia, the head of the Argentinian FA, last week accusing Israel of using the match as a "political tool". Jerusalem's Teddy Kollek Stadium was due to host Messi's all-star line-up just days ahead of the World Cup but Palestinian FA chief in an angry reaction accused the Israeli government of turning football into a "political tool". Rajoub later went on to declare that Messi would be personally targetted and called on Palestinian football fans to "burn his picture and his shirt and to abandon him." Although Argentina has played in Israel earlier but circumstances have changed considerably after the US moved its embassy to Jerusalem last month and recognised the holy city as the official capital of Israel leading to widespread protests in West Bank which led to several deaths as Palestinians clashed with Israeli forces. Later, Guatemala and Honduras also opened their embassy in Jerusalem leading to further discontentment among the Palestinians. Argentina has been drawn in World Cup Group D and will open their campaign against Iceland in Moscow on June 16.

Jerusalem row: Israel calls off Argentina World Cup friendly

The president of the Palestinian Football Association on Wednesday accused Israel of trying to use superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national soccer team as political tools, following the cancellation of the Argentina-Israeli friendly. 
 
Speaking at a press conference, Jibril Rajoub accused Israel mixing sports with politics, alluding to the fact that the game was to be held in Jerusalem, the eastern half of which is considered occupied by Israel under international law. 
 
"Israel sought to use the game to send a political message that has nothing to do with sports," Rajoub was quoted as saying in the official Palestinian news agency WAFA. 
 
"It wanted to use Messi to 'sport-wash' its crimes against the Palestinian people and Palestinian sports."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/israeli-minister-slams-argentina-team-over-football-cancellation-142582">Israeli minister slams Argentina team over football cancellation</a> 
 
Rajoub stressed that moving the match to Jerusalem, after it was originally planned to take place in the city of Haifa on the Mediterranean coast, was a violation of United Nations resolutions and international law. 
 
"We took the initiative right from day one and exerted all efforts to work according to FIFA rules in order to prevent the game from taking place in Jerusalem," he said. 
 
The change in venue was promoted by the Israeli minister of culture and sports, Miri Regev, who announced that the Argentinean team would tour the Old City of Jerusalem and that Messi would kiss the Wailing Wall, the most important place of prayer in Judaism, which is considered Israeli-occupied territory. 
 
After the press conference, Rajoub went to the Consulate of Argentina in Ramallah, where dozens of Palestinians gathered to thank the national team for their decision not to play the game in Jerusalem. 
 
Palestinians see East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six Day War and later annexed in 1980, as the capital of their future state.

The president of the Palestinian Football Association accused Israel of trying to use superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national soccer team as political tools

The president of the Palestinian Football Association on Wednesday accused Israel of trying to use superstar Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national soccer team as political tools, following the cancellation of the Argentina-Israeli friendly. Speaking at a press conference, Jibril Rajoub accused Israel mixing sports with politics, alluding to the fact that the game was to be held in Jerusalem, the eastern half of which is considered occupied by Israel under international law. "Israel sought to use the game to send a political message that has nothing to do with sports," Rajoub was quoted as saying in the official Palestinian news agency WAFA. "It wanted to use Messi to 'sport-wash' its crimes against the Palestinian people and Palestinian sports." Israeli minister slams Argentina team over football cancellation Rajoub stressed that moving the match to Jerusalem, after it was originally planned to take place in the city of Haifa on the Mediterranean coast, was a violation of United Nations resolutions and international law. "We took the initiative right from day one and exerted all efforts to work according to FIFA rules in order to prevent the game from taking place in Jerusalem," he said. The change in venue was promoted by the Israeli minister of culture and sports, Miri Regev, who announced that the Argentinean team would tour the Old City of Jerusalem and that Messi would kiss the Wailing Wall, the most important place of prayer in Judaism, which is considered Israeli-occupied territory. After the press conference, Rajoub went to the Consulate of Argentina in Ramallah, where dozens of Palestinians gathered to thank the national team for their decision not to play the game in Jerusalem. Palestinians see East Jerusalem, which was occupied by Israel during the 1967 Six Day War and later annexed in 1980, as the capital of their future state.

Palestinian football chief accuses Israel of using Messi as political tool

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman on Wednesday slammed the Argentina national football team over the cancellation of a planned friendly against Israel in Jerusalem, calling it a surrender to hate.

"It's a shame that Argentina's footballing nobility did not withstand the pressure from Israeli-hating inciters," he wrote on Twitter in the first response from an Israeli cabinet minister.

The Israeli embassy in Argentina earlier announced the "suspension" of Saturday's sold-out game because of what it called "threats and provocations" against Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi.

The World Cup warm-up appearance in Jerusalem was hotly opposed by Palestinians, who claim the eastern part of the city, annexed by Israel, as the capital of their future state.

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman slammed the Argentina national football team over the cancellation of a planned friendly against Israel

Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman on Wednesday slammed the Argentina national football team over the cancellation of a planned friendly against Israel in Jerusalem, calling it a surrender to hate. "It's a shame that Argentina's footballing nobility did not withstand the pressure from Israeli-hating inciters," he wrote on Twitter in the first response from an Israeli cabinet minister. The Israeli embassy in Argentina earlier announced the "suspension" of Saturday's sold-out game because of what it called "threats and provocations" against Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi. The World Cup warm-up appearance in Jerusalem was hotly opposed by Palestinians, who claim the eastern part of the city, annexed by Israel, as the capital of their future state.

Israeli minister slams Argentina team over football cancellation

Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer and referred to as the greatest of all times (G.O.A.T.). He plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team. Thirty-year-old Lionel Messi said that he was "just another player" despite being considered among the all-time greats. The 21st edition of football World Cup is very important for the Argentine star as he has&nbsp;suggested that he will retire from international football&nbsp;if Argentina fail to win. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts that you probably&nbsp;did not know:

1. On 14 December 2000, Barcelona's sporting director Carles Rexach held a meeting with 13-year-old Lionel Messi's father Jorge so as to determine the future of the young prodigy. Interestingly, the contract was signed on a napkin which was the only piece of paper available at the time.

2. He became the first player to win the FIFA World Player of the Year 4 year in a row. He won his first Golden ball at the age of 22.

3. His international debut for Argentina lasted for just 47 seconds when he received a red card after coming&nbsp;as a substitute.

4. He was once offered a chance to play for the Spanish national team but he denied it.

5. Whenever he scores a goal, his simple celebration of raising his arms in the air is a gesture of gratitude to his grandmother who passed away when he was 10.

6. He has won the European Golden Shoe award a record five times and is the all-time record winner with 50 goals in 2011–12.

7. Messi scored 91 goals in 2012, a feat no one else has accomplished.

8. When Lionel Messi was diagnosed with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) at the age of 11, the treatment that cost $900 a month all those years ago was something Messi's family were not financially up for. It was Barcelona who intervened and, knowing Messi's potential, it wasn't long until he was called for a trial at the club. The club then offered to pay Messi's medical bills on the condition that he moved to Spain.

9. Messi holds two passports - Argentina's and Spain's. He became a Spanish citizen in September 2005.

10. Messi inherited the No. 10 Barca jersey from another great footballer Ronaldinho in the summer of 2008.

Messi's international debut for Argentina lasted for just 47 seconds when he received a red card after coming as a substitute

Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer and referred to as the greatest of all times (G.O.A.T.). He plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team. Thirty-year-old Lionel Messi said that he was "just another player" despite being considered among the all-time greats. The 21st edition of football World Cup is very important for the Argentine star as he has suggested that he will retire from international football if Argentina fail to win. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts that you probably did not know: 1. On 14 December 2000, Barcelona's sporting director Carles Rexach held a meeting with 13-year-old Lionel Messi's father Jorge so as to determine the future of the young prodigy. Interestingly, the contract was signed on a napkin which was the only piece of paper available at the time. 2. He became the first player to win the FIFA World Player of the Year 4 year in a row. He won his first Golden ball at the age of 22. 3. His international debut for Argentina lasted for just 47 seconds when he received a red card after coming as a substitute. 4. He was once offered a chance to play for the Spanish national team but he denied it. 5. Whenever he scores a goal, his simple celebration of raising his arms in the air is a gesture of gratitude to his grandmother who passed away when he was 10. 6. He has won the European Golden Shoe award a record five times and is the all-time record winner with 50 goals in 2011–12. 7. Messi scored 91 goals in 2012, a feat no one else has accomplished. 8. When Lionel Messi was diagnosed with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) at the age of 11, the treatment that cost $900 a month all those years ago was something Messi's family were not financially up for. It was Barcelona who intervened and, knowing Messi's potential, it wasn't long until he was called for a trial at the club. The club then offered to pay Messi's medical bills on the condition that he moved to Spain. 9. Messi holds two passports - Argentina's and Spain's. He became a Spanish citizen in September 2005. 10. Messi inherited the No. 10 Barca jersey from another great footballer Ronaldinho in the summer of 2008.

Lionel Messi got a red card in his 1st match: 10 interesting facts about the striker

Mastercard on Monday said it was changing a campaign in which thousands of free meals were to be given to the needy every time football superstars Neymar and Messi scored goals.

Under the scheme, every time the Brazil and Argentina strikers scored, 10,000 meals would be donated to the United Nations World Food Program.

The idea, due to run until March 2020, drew fire from many on social media who said it was in poor taste. Brazilian national team coach Tite also criticized it as counterproductive because it put too much pressure on individual stars.

The credit card giant, which sponsors both players and the Brazilian Football Confederation, says that instead a million meals will be donated in 2018, regardless of the goals scored. That is in addition to 400,000 meals already donated.

"We don't want the fans, players or anyone else to lose focus of the crucial question of hunger and our efforts to help this cause," Mastercard said in a statement in Brazil.

On-pitch rivals Neymar and Messi will continue to cooperate for the campaign, the company said.

On Saturday, Tite had addressed Mastercard directly, saying that one or two players should not shoulder the burden of generating the meals.

"This is a very good gesture..., but it would be even bigger if the donation was made every time a goal was scored by all the athletes from Brazil and Argentina, because we play as a team," he said, following Brazil's pre-World Cup warm-up game against Croatia in Liverpool.

Mastercard to distribute thousands of free meals to the needy on every goal Neymar and Messi score during the World Cup

Mastercard on Monday said it was changing a campaign in which thousands of free meals were to be given to the needy every time football superstars Neymar and Messi scored goals. Under the scheme, every time the Brazil and Argentina strikers scored, 10,000 meals would be donated to the United Nations World Food Program. The idea, due to run until March 2020, drew fire from many on social media who said it was in poor taste. Brazilian national team coach Tite also criticized it as counterproductive because it put too much pressure on individual stars. The credit card giant, which sponsors both players and the Brazilian Football Confederation, says that instead a million meals will be donated in 2018, regardless of the goals scored. That is in addition to 400,000 meals already donated. "We don't want the fans, players or anyone else to lose focus of the crucial question of hunger and our efforts to help this cause," Mastercard said in a statement in Brazil. On-pitch rivals Neymar and Messi will continue to cooperate for the campaign, the company said. On Saturday, Tite had addressed Mastercard directly, saying that one or two players should not shoulder the burden of generating the meals. "This is a very good gesture..., but it would be even bigger if the donation was made every time a goal was scored by all the athletes from Brazil and Argentina, because we play as a team," he said, following Brazil's pre-World Cup warm-up game against Croatia in Liverpool.

World Cup 2018: Mastercard ends meals-for-goals campaign with Neymar, Messi

FIFA ranking: 5 (till June 7)

Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice -- at home in 1978 and in Mexico eight years later when a Diego Maradona-inspired side got past England on their way to a thrilling 3-2 win over West Germany in the final. Argentina have also reached the final on three other occasions -- at the first World Cup in 1930, in Italy in 1990 and four years ago in Brazil where they lost in extra time to Germany.

<hr />
Coach: Jorge Sampaoli: Sampaoli, 58, got the job as coach only a year before the finals in Russia, taking over at a troubled time and becoming the third man to lead the team since Alejandro Sabella left after the 2014 World Cup. The diminutive coach guided Chile to their first international title, winning the Copa America in 2015 with a fast pressing style which reflects his own hyperactive pacing along the touchline. But Sampaoli has struggled to organise Argentina in the same way and one win in four competitive games, plus recent hammerings by Nigeria and Spain, show he has his work cut out.

<hr />
Key players:

Lionel Messi: Messi will celebrate his 31st birthday during the tournament and this could be his last chance to win the one big title he lacks. Few people doubt the five-times World Player of the Year will score goals. The big question is whether his teammates will be inspired enough to approach his level.

Gonzalo Higuain: Higuain is Argentina's enigma, a player who seems to score at will for his club Juventus but labours to hit the target when wearing the national shirt. Higuain's recent record for Argentina –- one goal in nine World Cup qualifiers -– is so poor that he is not even a certainty to go to Russia under Sampaoli. However, another fine season for Juve suggests Sampaoli cannot afford to leave him out. If Higuain can reproduce his club form Argentina will be dangerous. &nbsp &nbsp

Nicolas Otamendi: Unsung hero Otamendi is the only ever-present in Sampaoli's line up since Argentina qualified for the World Cup back in October. The Manchester City defender provides much-needed reliability in a national side that has changed both names and formations with alarming regularity since Sampaoli took over. How he is utilised, and who will play alongside him, will be of vital importance to the double world champions.

<hr />
Form guide:

Argentina struggled in the qualifiers and they have barely improved since, with inconsistent results and a porous defence. They lost a November friendly 4-2 against Group D opponents Nigeria and although a 2-0 win over Italy in March briefly raised their spirits, they lost 6-1 to Spain a few days later in one of their worst performances in years.

<hr />
How they qualified:

Argentina booked their ticket to Russia largely due to the brilliance of Messi, who scored a hat-trick in their final game against Ecuador. The Argentines needed to win the match to guarantee qualification, and the 3-1 victory lifted them into third place in the 10-team group. Most surprisingly for a team with Messi, Paulo Dybala, Angel Di Maria and Higuain in their ranks, they scored just 19 goals in the 18 qualifying matches. Only Bolivia scored fewer.

<hr />
Prospects:

Argentina reached the World Cup final in 2014 and the Copa America final in 2015 and 2016, but it has been downhill ever since for the twice champions. They are in the hardest group of all, Group D, alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. If they qualify they will at least be in the side of the draw that would keep them apart from Brazil, Germany and England before the final. Another advantage for Argentina is that they begin their campaign early, just three days into the tournament on June 16 against Iceland, giving the players more time to rest.

<hr />
Argentina's fixture:

June 16

06:30 PM | Argentina vs Iceland | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

June 21

11:30 PM | Argentina vs Croatia | Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod

June 26

11:30 PM | Nigeria vs Argentina | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

<hr />
Twenty three-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guzman (Tigres Monterrey/MEX), Wilfredo Caballero (Chelsea/ENG), Franco Armani (River Plate)

Defenders: Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sporting/POR), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Cristian Ansaldi (Torino/ITA), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN).

Midfielders: Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente).

Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors).

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_4.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_4.jpg" width="770" />

Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice

FIFA ranking: 5 (till June 7) Argentina have played in 16 World Cup tournaments and have won the title twice -- at home in 1978 and in Mexico eight years later when a Diego Maradona-inspired side got past England on their way to a thrilling 3-2 win over West Germany in the final. Argentina have also reached the final on three other occasions -- at the first World Cup in 1930, in Italy in 1990 and four years ago in Brazil where they lost in extra time to Germany. Coach: Jorge Sampaoli: Sampaoli, 58, got the job as coach only a year before the finals in Russia, taking over at a troubled time and becoming the third man to lead the team since Alejandro Sabella left after the 2014 World Cup. The diminutive coach guided Chile to their first international title, winning the Copa America in 2015 with a fast pressing style which reflects his own hyperactive pacing along the touchline. But Sampaoli has struggled to organise Argentina in the same way and one win in four competitive games, plus recent hammerings by Nigeria and Spain, show he has his work cut out. Key players: Lionel Messi: Messi will celebrate his 31st birthday during the tournament and this could be his last chance to win the one big title he lacks. Few people doubt the five-times World Player of the Year will score goals. The big question is whether his teammates will be inspired enough to approach his level. Gonzalo Higuain: Higuain is Argentina's enigma, a player who seems to score at will for his club Juventus but labours to hit the target when wearing the national shirt. Higuain's recent record for Argentina –- one goal in nine World Cup qualifiers -– is so poor that he is not even a certainty to go to Russia under Sampaoli. However, another fine season for Juve suggests Sampaoli cannot afford to leave him out. If Higuain can reproduce his club form Argentina will be dangerous. Nicolas Otamendi: Unsung hero Otamendi is the only ever-present in Sampaoli's line up since Argentina qualified for the World Cup back in October. The Manchester City defender provides much-needed reliability in a national side that has changed both names and formations with alarming regularity since Sampaoli took over. How he is utilised, and who will play alongside him, will be of vital importance to the double world champions. Form guide: Argentina struggled in the qualifiers and they have barely improved since, with inconsistent results and a porous defence. They lost a November friendly 4-2 against Group D opponents Nigeria and although a 2-0 win over Italy in March briefly raised their spirits, they lost 6-1 to Spain a few days later in one of their worst performances in years. How they qualified: Argentina booked their ticket to Russia largely due to the brilliance of Messi, who scored a hat-trick in their final game against Ecuador. The Argentines needed to win the match to guarantee qualification, and the 3-1 victory lifted them into third place in the 10-team group. Most surprisingly for a team with Messi, Paulo Dybala, Angel Di Maria and Higuain in their ranks, they scored just 19 goals in the 18 qualifying matches. Only Bolivia scored fewer. Prospects: Argentina reached the World Cup final in 2014 and the Copa America final in 2015 and 2016, but it has been downhill ever since for the twice champions. They are in the hardest group of all, Group D, alongside Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria. If they qualify they will at least be in the side of the draw that would keep them apart from Brazil, Germany and England before the final. Another advantage for Argentina is that they begin their campaign early, just three days into the tournament on June 16 against Iceland, giving the players more time to rest. Argentina's fixture: June 16 06:30 PM | Argentina vs Iceland | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow June 21 11:30 PM | Argentina vs Croatia | Nizhny Novgorod Stadium, Nizhny Novgorod June 26 11:30 PM | Nigeria vs Argentina | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg Twenty three-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guzman (Tigres Monterrey/MEX), Wilfredo Caballero (Chelsea/ENG), Franco Armani (River Plate) Defenders: Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax/NED), Marcos Acuna (Sporting/POR), Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Cristian Ansaldi (Torino/ITA), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN). Midfielders: Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente). Forwards: Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Paulo Dybala (Juventus/ITA), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors).

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Argentina

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer.

He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far.

Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer.

Lionel Messi: 62

Cristiano Ronaldo: 61

David Villa: 59

Sunil Chhetri: 59

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">‘Abuse us... but </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860">come</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/abuse-us-scream-at-us-but-come-watch-us-urges-indian-football-team-captain-sunil-chhetri-141860"> watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri</a>

"I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far

Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri is currently on a record-breaking spree. Recently, he scored a hat-trick in India's 5-0 win over Chinese Taipei at the Intercontinental Cup on Friday and now he has joined the ranks with legendary footballers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the third-highest active international goalscorer. He surpassed USA international striker Clint Dempsey when he scored the hat-tricks and joint-third in the active goalscorers' list with Spain' David Villa. Sunil Chhetri has scored a total of 59 goals in his illustrious career so far. Now, level with David Villa (59), behind Cristiano Ronaldo (61) and Lionel Messi (64) in the list of an active international goalscorer. Lionel Messi: 62 Cristiano Ronaldo: 61 David Villa: 59 Sunil Chhetri: 59 ‘Abuse us... but come watch us,’ urges Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri "I am very happy when I score. I do not take it for granted. I am very fortunate to score so many goals for my club and country. I am very happy from inside," Chhetri said during a post-match press conference.

After Ronaldo & Messi, this Indian footballer is the 3rd-most active international goalscorer

Argentina's national team was bid farewell by President Mauricio Macri and a throng of fans as they set off for Barcelona on Wednesday (May 30), where they will train ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Russia.

With Barcelona striker Lionel Messi at the helm, the team hopes to consolidate a group of strong individual players, particularly strikers, who have struggled to reproduce their club form at international level.

Coach Jorge Luis Sampaoli's team has struggled on the field, only qualifying for this year's tournament thanks to a win in their final qualifying match.

Messi, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, has said winning the World Cup with his country would be a unique experience, and he does not wish he chose to play for Spain, who lifted the trophy in 2010.

The twice world champions and runners-up four years ago in Brazil also play Israel on June 9 before heading to Russia.

Argentina&nbsp;will play in Group D against Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria. Their first match will be against Iceland on Saturday, June 16, with later matches scheduled on June 21 and June 26.

Fans, president bid Argentine team farewell as they depart for World Cup in Russia

Argentina's national team was bid farewell by President Mauricio Macri and a throng of fans as they set off for Barcelona on Wednesday (May 30), where they will train ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Russia. With Barcelona striker Lionel Messi at the helm, the team hopes to consolidate a group of strong individual players, particularly strikers, who have struggled to reproduce their club form at international level. Coach Jorge Luis Sampaoli's team has struggled on the field, only qualifying for this year's tournament thanks to a win in their final qualifying match. Messi, a five-time Ballon d'Or winner, has said winning the World Cup with his country would be a unique experience, and he does not wish he chose to play for Spain, who lifted the trophy in 2010. The twice world champions and runners-up four years ago in Brazil also play Israel on June 9 before heading to Russia. Argentina will play in Group D against Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria. Their first match will be against Iceland on Saturday, June 16, with later matches scheduled on June 21 and June 26.

Watch: Messi-led Argentina leaves for World Cup 2018

Between eight and ten million packets a day, each with five cards, perhaps including the coveted ones of Lionel Messi, Neymar or Cristiano Ronaldo -- as World Cup fever builds the Panini sticker factory in Italy is working flat out.

With Panini, Italy are guaranteed not to miss out on the World Cup in Russia even if their team will not be competing.&nbsp;

Created in 1960 by the four Panini brothers, the business has an exclusive contract with world football's governing body FIFA and its first World Cup album dates back to 1970.

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Panini World Cup stickers are back baybay! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panini?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panini</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/cFv3IqdviZ">pic.twitter.com/cFv3IqdviZ</a>
— The Adamantium (@AdamRHarrison) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamRHarrison/status/997954081808269312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Over the past 50 years the principle has never changed -- you open, stick and exchange cards.

"It's the simplicity that pays. Panini has never been in crisis because it's a simple game enjoyed by parents and children," Simona Spiaggia, head of production at the factory in Modena in central Italy told AFP.

Even four-time champions' Italy's absence from the World Cup for the first time in 60 years has not dented booming sales.

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Get Your 2018 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panini?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panini</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFA</a> 365 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Stickers?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Stickers</a> Special Collectors Package w/72 Page Album! World's Biggest Soccer Football Stars!! <a href="https://t.co/q3Ljf4nwCz">https://t.co/q3Ljf4nwCz</a>
— ?MilanLegends.com⚫️ (@TheMilanLegends) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMilanLegends/status/998096276574101504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"No, it's marginal," continues Spiaggia.&nbsp;

"We produce for the entire world, apart from a part of Latin American because we have another factory in Brazil.&nbsp;

"But for the rest of the world, everything is done here. So Italy represents just a small part."

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Iker <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Casillas?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Casillas</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Spain?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Spain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panini?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panini</a> stickers 2002-2016 <a href="https://t.co/0gVT4OUuKk">pic.twitter.com/0gVT4OUuKk</a>
— Stickerpedia (@Stickerpedia1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stickerpedia1/status/998083268338704384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Since last January the machines which have remained unchanged since the 1960s, cut, mix and package at a faster rate than normal with the number of factory employees having jumped from 130 to 240 to keep pace with demand.

"We have production peaks every two years with the European championships and the World Cup. But that of the World Cup is a little higher," said Spiaggia.

And despite other partnership deals, notably with Disney, and inroads into cycling and basketball, football "still represents the largest part of our business," she said.

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I've a swap request for my PANINI STICKER ALBUM: You have: Stickers 'Egypt','João Mário','Mitchell Langerak','Bailey Wright','Aaron Mooy' 
You want: Stickers 'Korea Republic','Kim Younggwon','Ki Sungyueng','Lee Chungyong','Hwang Heechan' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PaniniStickerAlbum?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PaniniStickerAlbum</a><a href="https://t.co/klO0AtYYh3">https://t.co/klO0AtYYh3</a>
— Mazen Mohamed Aly ™ (@MazenMohamedAly) <a href="https://twitter.com/MazenMohamedAly/status/998007928224444417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Even competition from internet collections has not yet threatened or diminished the appeal of the traditional paper album.

"We're going forward with on-line. But it's a bit like books, some move to e-books, others will always prefer paper and that's the same for our collectors."

Fans will be searching avidly for stars including Neymar, Messi and Ronaldo, stickers which may seem rarer but which are in fact not.

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And so it begins. Worst parenting I've ever done. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panini?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panini</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Stickers?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Stickers</a> <a href="https://t.co/jkwvzqKZIF">pic.twitter.com/jkwvzqKZIF</a>
— Jarlath Regan (@Jarlath) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jarlath/status/997967382973906944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"If they're rare it's because they are more sought after," explained Spiaggia. "There are fewer in circulation because they're not being exchanged, but not at the start."

In the end it's all down to chance and the shuffle of the machines. That is one thing that has changed from the early days when the mix was done with a shovel by throwing the stickers against the wall.

Created in 1960 by the four Panini brothers, the business has an exclusive contract with world football's governing body FIFA and its first World Cup album dates back to 1970

Between eight and ten million packets a day, each with five cards, perhaps including the coveted ones of Lionel Messi, Neymar or Cristiano Ronaldo -- as World Cup fever builds the Panini sticker factory in Italy is working flat out. With Panini, Italy are guaranteed not to miss out on the World Cup in Russia even if their team will not be competing. Created in 1960 by the four Panini brothers, the business has an exclusive contract with world football's governing body FIFA and its first World Cup album dates back to 1970. Panini World Cup stickers are back baybay! #Panini #WorldCup2018 pic.twitter.com/cFv3IqdviZ — The Adamantium (@AdamRHarrison) May 19, 2018 × Over the past 50 years the principle has never changed -- you open, stick and exchange cards. "It's the simplicity that pays. Panini has never been in crisis because it's a simple game enjoyed by parents and children," Simona Spiaggia, head of production at the factory in Modena in central Italy told AFP. Even four-time champions' Italy's absence from the World Cup for the first time in 60 years has not dented booming sales. Get Your 2018 #Panini #FIFA 365 #Stickers Special Collectors Package w/72 Page Album! World's Biggest Soccer Football Stars!! https://t.co/q3Ljf4nwCz — ?MilanLegends.com⚫️ (@TheMilanLegends) May 20, 2018 × "No, it's marginal," continues Spiaggia. "We produce for the entire world, apart from a part of Latin American because we have another factory in Brazil. "But for the rest of the world, everything is done here. So Italy represents just a small part." Iker #Casillas#Spain #WorldCup #EURO #Panini stickers 2002-2016 pic.twitter.com/0gVT4OUuKk — Stickerpedia (@Stickerpedia1) May 20, 2018 × Since last January the machines which have remained unchanged since the 1960s, cut, mix and package at a faster rate than normal with the number of factory employees having jumped from 130 to 240 to keep pace with demand. "We have production peaks every two years with the European championships and the World Cup. But that of the World Cup is a little higher," said Spiaggia. And despite other partnership deals, notably with Disney, and inroads into cycling and basketball, football "still represents the largest part of our business," she said. I've a swap request for my PANINI STICKER ALBUM: You have: Stickers 'Egypt','João Mário','Mitchell Langerak','Bailey Wright','Aaron Mooy' You want: Stickers 'Korea Republic','Kim Younggwon','Ki Sungyueng','Lee Chungyong','Hwang Heechan' #PaniniStickerAlbumhttps://t.co/klO0AtYYh3 — Mazen Mohamed Aly ™ (@MazenMohamedAly) May 20, 2018 × Even competition from internet collections has not yet threatened or diminished the appeal of the traditional paper album. "We're going forward with on-line. But it's a bit like books, some move to e-books, others will always prefer paper and that's the same for our collectors." Fans will be searching avidly for stars including Neymar, Messi and Ronaldo, stickers which may seem rarer but which are in fact not. And so it begins. Worst parenting I've ever done. #Panini #WorldCup #Stickers pic.twitter.com/jkwvzqKZIF — Jarlath Regan (@Jarlath) May 19, 2018 × "If they're rare it's because they are more sought after," explained Spiaggia. "There are fewer in circulation because they're not being exchanged, but not at the start." In the end it's all down to chance and the shuffle of the machines. That is one thing that has changed from the early days when the mix was done with a shovel by throwing the stickers against the wall.

FIFA 2018: World Cup fever inspires Panini stickers craze

Argentina great Diego Maradona has been appointed as the chairman of Dynamo Brest on a three-year contract, the Belarusian Premier League team said on Wednesday.

A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division.

"Diego Maradona will supervise the areas of club's strategic development, and also cooperate with its all structural departments, including the Academy of Dynamo Brest," the club said in a statement on their website https://en.dynamo-brest.by.

The former Barcelona and Napoli forward previously managed UAE team Al-Wasl along with the Argentina national team from 2008 to 2010.

The 57-year-old will take charge of Dynamo, who are eighth in their league, after the conclusion of this year's World Cup in Russia. 
&nbsp;

A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division

Argentina great Diego Maradona has been appointed as the chairman of Dynamo Brest on a three-year contract, the Belarusian Premier League team said on Wednesday. A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division. "Diego Maradona will supervise the areas of club's strategic development, and also cooperate with its all structural departments, including the Academy of Dynamo Brest," the club said in a statement on their website https://en.dynamo-brest.by. The former Barcelona and Napoli forward previously managed UAE team Al-Wasl along with the Argentina national team from 2008 to 2010. The 57-year-old will take charge of Dynamo, who are eighth in their league, after the conclusion of this year's World Cup in Russia.

Dynamo appointed as Brest chairman in Belarus by Maradona

When the World Cup is held aloft in July, it won't be an Italian lifting the trophy. The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine.

The four-time winners' humiliating exit in November's playoff defeat to Sweden cast a pall over one of the world's proudest football nations.

Italy are not going to the World Cup, but the World Cup will come to Italy.

Every four years, in an anonymous building in an industrial town near Milan,&nbsp;amid the clouds of metal dust and sound of presses and hammers, an Italian company gets its hands on the World Cup trophy itself -- and gives it a makeover.&nbsp;

GDE Bertoni, a small business with 12 employees based in the Milanese suburb of Paderno Dugnano, designed and created the current cup in 1971 after Brazil kept the Jules Rimet trophy after they won the World Cup for the third time, and every four years it returned home for a spruce up.

"It's always a special feeling when the original trophy comes back to us, even if we see the replica every day," says Valentina Losa, director of the company her great-grandfather founded in 1938.&nbsp;

The trophy was made by the company's then-artistic director, sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga, helped by Valentina's father Giorgio, who suggested the globe at the top of the trophy.

"The original is the original. It's like the difference between seeing the original Mona Lisa or a copy. It's not the same feeling at all."

"Amazing feeling"

Standing in front of an autographed photo of Franz Beckenbauer, who in 1974 became the first captain to lift the new trophy, Losa recounts how her company bagged the contract.

"There were 53 proposals from all over the world, but we were the only ones to have made a model, a physical product," she says. "Having it in front of you, not just a drawing -- that plays."

Soon after every World Cup,&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;sends the trophy, which is 38 centimetres long and contains more than six kilos of solid gold and malachite, home to be tended to.

"For four years it travels and is exposed to the elements. It's a little damaged, but we put it back into shape," says Pietro Brambilla, one of the Bertoni workshop's eight specialist workers.

Brambilla has no interest in football but something changes when he sees the World Cup winning captain lift the trophy.

"I always shed a tear at that moment because that trophy passed through my hands. It's an amazing feeling," he says.

"Not many people can say that they've held the World Cup."

Coveted

As well as making the original, Bortoni is&nbsp;also responsible for making a replica which the eventual winners of each tournament get to keep.

The replica is made from brass, after which is undergoes a range of treatments&nbsp;including milling and polishing before being bathed in 24-carat gold.

"We do this by eye. Once we see that she is beautiful, it comes out," says Ahmed Ait Siti Abdelkader, depositing a varnish that will keep the trophy shiny for about a decade.

"The World Cup is something different," he adds. "We make a lot of cups here, for Africa, the Gulf, Europe, Central America ... but this one has an extraordinary effect on you, different from all the others."

On July 15 Neymar, Lionel Messi, Hugo Lloris, Sergio Ramos or Manuel Neuer could be lifting the trophy rather than Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon, whose post-elimination tears captured a nation's heart in November. But a few months later it will come home again to an industrial corner of Italy for its regular once over.

"It's such a coveted trophy that when a team wins it, the players mess around with it and take advantage of it -- a bit too much," says Losa.

"Sometimes it comes back with a bit of work to do. Let's just say that in 2006 the Italians really partied."

The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine

When the World Cup is held aloft in July, it won't be an Italian lifting the trophy. The eliminated Azzurri will not brighten the tournament, but Italians will still make the cup shine. The four-time winners' humiliating exit in November's playoff defeat to Sweden cast a pall over one of the world's proudest football nations. Italy are not going to the World Cup, but the World Cup will come to Italy. Every four years, in an anonymous building in an industrial town near Milan, amid the clouds of metal dust and sound of presses and hammers, an Italian company gets its hands on the World Cup trophy itself -- and gives it a makeover. GDE Bertoni, a small business with 12 employees based in the Milanese suburb of Paderno Dugnano, designed and created the current cup in 1971 after Brazil kept the Jules Rimet trophy after they won the World Cup for the third time, and every four years it returned home for a spruce up. "It's always a special feeling when the original trophy comes back to us, even if we see the replica every day," says Valentina Losa, director of the company her great-grandfather founded in 1938. The trophy was made by the company's then-artistic director, sculptor Silvio Gazzaniga, helped by Valentina's father Giorgio, who suggested the globe at the top of the trophy. "The original is the original. It's like the difference between seeing the original Mona Lisa or a copy. It's not the same feeling at all." "Amazing feeling" Standing in front of an autographed photo of Franz Beckenbauer, who in 1974 became the first captain to lift the new trophy, Losa recounts how her company bagged the contract. "There were 53 proposals from all over the world, but we were the only ones to have made a model, a physical product," she says. "Having it in front of you, not just a drawing -- that plays." Soon after every World Cup, FIFA sends the trophy, which is 38 centimetres long and contains more than six kilos of solid gold and malachite, home to be tended to. "For four years it travels and is exposed to the elements. It's a little damaged, but we put it back into shape," says Pietro Brambilla, one of the Bertoni workshop's eight specialist workers. Brambilla has no interest in football but something changes when he sees the World Cup winning captain lift the trophy. "I always shed a tear at that moment because that trophy passed through my hands. It's an amazing feeling," he says. "Not many people can say that they've held the World Cup." Coveted As well as making the original, Bortoni is also responsible for making a replica which the eventual winners of each tournament get to keep. The replica is made from brass, after which is undergoes a range of treatments including milling and polishing before being bathed in 24-carat gold. "We do this by eye. Once we see that she is beautiful, it comes out," says Ahmed Ait Siti Abdelkader, depositing a varnish that will keep the trophy shiny for about a decade. "The World Cup is something different," he adds. "We make a lot of cups here, for Africa, the Gulf, Europe, Central America ... but this one has an extraordinary effect on you, different from all the others." On July 15 Neymar, Lionel Messi, Hugo Lloris, Sergio Ramos or Manuel Neuer could be lifting the trophy rather than Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon, whose post-elimination tears captured a nation's heart in November. But a few months later it will come home again to an industrial corner of Italy for its regular once over. "It's such a coveted trophy that when a team wins it, the players mess around with it and take advantage of it -- a bit too much," says Losa. "Sometimes it comes back with a bit of work to do. Let's just say that in 2006 the Italians really partied."

FIFA 2018: Italy not going to World Cup but World Cup comes to Italy

The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world

FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup

Injured Argentina striker Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday.

"He will get there fine," the Spaniard told reporters. "I can give you the latest news from doctor (Ramon) Cugat in Barcelona and it's going perfectly."

Aguero, 29, has scored 21 Premier League goals for runaway champions City this season but underwent an arthroscopy in mid-April.

Argentina play their opening World Cup match against Iceland on June 16.

Guardiola said Belgium international captain Vincent Kompany and England defender John Stones were fit and ready for Sunday's league game against Huddersfield Town after earlier injury problems.

"The main target for the players in the World Cup because the Premier League is done. But the best way to arrive at the World Cup is to play good in these three games," said the manager of the final Premier League matches.

Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia

Injured Argentina striker Sergio Aguero is recovering well from knee surgery and will be ready for next month's World Cup in Russia, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday. "He will get there fine," the Spaniard told reporters. "I can give you the latest news from doctor (Ramon) Cugat in Barcelona and it's going perfectly." Aguero, 29, has scored 21 Premier League goals for runaway champions City this season but underwent an arthroscopy in mid-April. Argentina play their opening World Cup match against Iceland on June 16. Guardiola said Belgium international captain Vincent Kompany and England defender John Stones were fit and ready for Sunday's league game against Huddersfield Town after earlier injury problems. "The main target for the players in the World Cup because the Premier League is done. But the best way to arrive at the World Cup is to play good in these three games," said the manager of the final Premier League matches.

Argentine striker Sergio Aguero will be fine for FIFA World Cup 2018: Pep Guardiola

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday backed air strikes by the United States and its allies on Syria's chemical weapons program but Argentina, Brazil and Peru voiced caution during a regional summit about the escalating military action.

Speaking at the Summit of the Americas in Peru, Trudeau and several other Western Hemisphere leaders forcefully condemned the use of chemical weapons, following a suspected poison gas attack last week in a Damascus suburb that killed up to 75 people and sparked international outcry.

Washington blamed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government for the attack and, together with Britain and France, launched missile strikes overnight on what it said were Syrian chemical weapons facilities.

"Canada stands with our friends in this necessary response and we condemn in the strongest possible terms the use of chemical weapons in last week's attack," Trudeau said in his speech. "Those responsible must be brought to justice."

But the retaliatory action drew pleas for caution from several Latin American countries.

"There's deep concern in Brazil with the escalation of military conflict in Syria," Brazilian President Michel Temer told the summit. "It's time to find permanent solutions based on international law to a war that has been going for far too long and ended too many lives."

Peru, a non-permanent member of the UN&nbsp;Security Council, called for moderation from all parties involved in Syria and said it was working to find a political solution, according to a foreign ministry statement.

Argentine President Mauricio Macri also appealed for greater coordination on Syria "in the framework of existing international commitments", remarks later echoed by Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

Outside the summit, the strikes drew swift condemnation from left-leaning governments in Bolivia and Cuba, outspoken critics of US&nbsp;influence.

But Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, a close US&nbsp;ally in Latin America, appeared to back Washington as he condemned chemical weapons.

"We support actions to punish their use and seek their total elimination," Santos said.

The Pentagon said the missile strikes in Syria had hit every target. It said the military action was aimed at delivering an unambiguous signal to the Syrian government and deterring the future use of chemical weapons.

The official theme of the Summit of the Americas is the fight against corruption. Many countries in attendance are also expected to condemn a pending election in Venezuela.

But Syria, China and trade loomed over the talks on Saturday as Washington seeks to advance the agenda of U.S. President Donald Trump, which is widely unpopular in the region.

Trump canceled his attendance at the summit to focus on Syria. US Vice President Mike Pence, filling in for him, was expected to discuss Syria in his speech on Saturday and in meetings with heads of state.

Nafta talks

Pence met with Pena Nieto privately at the summit. The Mexican leader told reporters they would discuss not just the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) but also maintaining a relationship of "mutual respect" between their two countries.

Pence and Pena Nieto kept their remarks to reporters extremely brief - in contrast to the more expansive and warmer tone struck by Pence and Trudeau during the public part of a meeting held minutes earlier.

Trudeau said there was "positive momentum" on reworking the NAFTA accord - which groups Canada, Mexico and the United States - while Pence said talks were encouraging.

"As the president said very recently, we think we're close," Pence said before starting the meeting with Pena Nieto. "We are hopeful that we can conclude a successful renegotiation of NAFTA."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday backed air strikes by the United States and its allies on Syria's chemical weapons program but Argentina, Brazil and Peru voiced caution during a regional summit about the escalating military action

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday backed air strikes by the United States and its allies on Syria's chemical weapons program but Argentina, Brazil and Peru voiced caution during a regional summit about the escalating military action. Speaking at the Summit of the Americas in Peru, Trudeau and several other Western Hemisphere leaders forcefully condemned the use of chemical weapons, following a suspected poison gas attack last week in a Damascus suburb that killed up to 75 people and sparked international outcry. Washington blamed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government for the attack and, together with Britain and France, launched missile strikes overnight on what it said were Syrian chemical weapons facilities. "Canada stands with our friends in this necessary response and we condemn in the strongest possible terms the use of chemical weapons in last week's attack," Trudeau said in his speech. "Those responsible must be brought to justice." But the retaliatory action drew pleas for caution from several Latin American countries. "There's deep concern in Brazil with the escalation of military conflict in Syria," Brazilian President Michel Temer told the summit. "It's time to find permanent solutions based on international law to a war that has been going for far too long and ended too many lives." Peru, a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, called for moderation from all parties involved in Syria and said it was working to find a political solution, according to a foreign ministry statement. Argentine President Mauricio Macri also appealed for greater coordination on Syria "in the framework of existing international commitments", remarks later echoed by Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto. Outside the summit, the strikes drew swift condemnation from left-leaning governments in Bolivia and Cuba, outspoken critics of US influence. But Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, a close US ally in Latin America, appeared to back Washington as he condemned chemical weapons. "We support actions to punish their use and seek their total elimination," Santos said. The Pentagon said the missile strikes in Syria had hit every target. It said the military action was aimed at delivering an unambiguous signal to the Syrian government and deterring the future use of chemical weapons. The official theme of the Summit of the Americas is the fight against corruption. Many countries in attendance are also expected to condemn a pending election in Venezuela. But Syria, China and trade loomed over the talks on Saturday as Washington seeks to advance the agenda of U.S. President Donald Trump, which is widely unpopular in the region. Trump canceled his attendance at the summit to focus on Syria. US Vice President Mike Pence, filling in for him, was expected to discuss Syria in his speech on Saturday and in meetings with heads of state. Nafta talks Pence met with Pena Nieto privately at the summit. The Mexican leader told reporters they would discuss not just the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) but also maintaining a relationship of "mutual respect" between their two countries. Pence and Pena Nieto kept their remarks to reporters extremely brief - in contrast to the more expansive and warmer tone struck by Pence and Trudeau during the public part of a meeting held minutes earlier. Trudeau said there was "positive momentum" on reworking the NAFTA accord - which groups Canada, Mexico and the United States - while Pence said talks were encouraging. "As the president said very recently, we think we're close," Pence said before starting the meeting with Pena Nieto. "We are hopeful that we can conclude a successful renegotiation of NAFTA."

Canada backs Syria strikes but others concerned at Americas summit

Recently, Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat against Spain in the FIFA warm-up matches. Although, former Argentine football legends have backed the team ahead of World Cup but the dependency of the team on Lionel Messi is very much visible by their current performance.

Lionel Messi, who is currently suffering from a muscle injury, was not there in the squad list of Argentina against Spain in the FIFA friendly match.

Though he was watching the game from the stands&nbsp;but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough and left the stands with dejection.

Messi's reaction during the Argentina-Spain friendly match:

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Messi is currently suffering from a muscle injury and was not there in the squad list of a warm-up match against Spain in which Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat.<a href="https://t.co/TCQkHMeA3K">https://t.co/TCQkHMeA3K</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/979015254964281345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mario Kempes, formers Argentine player said, on recent Argentina's performance, "There is time to correct mistakes, there is time to form that team."

Ricardo Villa, 1978 Argentina World Cup champion, said, "I am quite critical with the authorities of Argentine soccer. They have changed the head coaches very often."

Ricardo further added, "For Sampaoli this is a problem, he still doesn't have the team but I think he's going to do it."

2018 World Cup trophy unveiled in Argentina:

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Lionel Messi has suffered a hoodoo in the finals of the major tournaments like World Cup and Copa America.

In the last football World Cup in Brazil, the Barcelona sensation led the team in the finals but suffered a terrible fate when Germany scored the winner in the extra time and became world champions.

Apart from the World Cup, he also faced defeats in the finals of Copa America. Not to forget the Copa 2016, when he suddenly announced retirement which he later overturned after facing a tragic defeat against Chile in the penalties.

The upcoming football World Cup could be his last as he is already&nbsp;in his thirties and has already said&nbsp;he could retire from international matches if Argentina doesn't win the World Cup.

Lionel Messi during practice session:

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[SELECCIÓN MAYOR] Último entrenamiento de <a href="https://twitter.com/Argentina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Argentina</a> previo al duelo ante <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Espa%C3%B1a?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#España</a>. <a href="https://t.co/3ZSFnpKhsm">pic.twitter.com/3ZSFnpKhsm</a>
— Selección Argentina (@Argentina) <a href="https://twitter.com/Argentina/status/978293612290113542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The upcoming football World Cup could be his last as he is already in his thirties and has already said he could retire from international matches if Argentina doesn't win the World Cup

Recently, Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat against Spain in the FIFA warm-up matches. Although, former Argentine football legends have backed the team ahead of World Cup but the dependency of the team on Lionel Messi is very much visible by their current performance. Lionel Messi, who is currently suffering from a muscle injury, was not there in the squad list of Argentina against Spain in the FIFA friendly match. Though he was watching the game from the stands but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough and left the stands with dejection. Messi's reaction during the Argentina-Spain friendly match: Messi is currently suffering from a muscle injury and was not there in the squad list of a warm-up match against Spain in which Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat.https://t.co/TCQkHMeA3K — WION (@WIONews) March 28, 2018 × Mario Kempes, formers Argentine player said, on recent Argentina's performance, "There is time to correct mistakes, there is time to form that team." Ricardo Villa, 1978 Argentina World Cup champion, said, "I am quite critical with the authorities of Argentine soccer. They have changed the head coaches very often." Ricardo further added, "For Sampaoli this is a problem, he still doesn't have the team but I think he's going to do it." 2018 World Cup trophy unveiled in Argentina: × Lionel Messi has suffered a hoodoo in the finals of the major tournaments like World Cup and Copa America. In the last football World Cup in Brazil, the Barcelona sensation led the team in the finals but suffered a terrible fate when Germany scored the winner in the extra time and became world champions. Apart from the World Cup, he also faced defeats in the finals of Copa America. Not to forget the Copa 2016, when he suddenly announced retirement which he later overturned after facing a tragic defeat against Chile in the penalties. The upcoming football World Cup could be his last as he is already in his thirties and has already said he could retire from international matches if Argentina doesn't win the World Cup. Lionel Messi during practice session: [SELECCIÓN MAYOR] Último entrenamiento de @Argentina previo al duelo ante #España. pic.twitter.com/3ZSFnpKhsm — Selección Argentina (@Argentina) March 26, 2018 ×

'Messi-dependent' Argentina might suffer again in FIFA World Cup

Messi is currently suffering from a muscle injury and was not there in the squad list of a&nbsp;warm-up match against Spain in which Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat.

Though the Argentine striker was watching the game from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough and left the stands with dejection.

Watch the video here:

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Messi after watching Argentina get battered 6-1 by Spain ? <a href="https://t.co/pXX3y5g8Wi">pic.twitter.com/pXX3y5g8Wi</a>
— True Soccer Life ⚽️ (@TrueSccrLife) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrueSccrLife/status/978785968416264192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Cameras captured the injured captain leaving his seat, presumably to head for the dressing room to console his distraught teammates, but the image was symbolic as his hapless team was humiliated 6-1 by a rampaging Spain side.

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Heart aches ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreMessi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreMessi</a> <a href="https://t.co/uFTmdXjEXz">pic.twitter.com/uFTmdXjEXz</a>
— Leo Messi ? (@WeAreMessi) <a href="https://twitter.com/WeAreMessi/status/978753760133550080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Argentine striker was watching the game from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough and left the stands with dejection

Messi is currently suffering from a muscle injury and was not there in the squad list of a warm-up match against Spain in which Argentina suffered an embarrassing 6-1 defeat. Though the Argentine striker was watching the game from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough and left the stands with dejection. Watch the video here: Messi after watching Argentina get battered 6-1 by Spain ? pic.twitter.com/pXX3y5g8Wi — True Soccer Life ⚽️ (@TrueSccrLife) March 28, 2018 × Cameras captured the injured captain leaving his seat, presumably to head for the dressing room to console his distraught teammates, but the image was symbolic as his hapless team was humiliated 6-1 by a rampaging Spain side. Heart aches ?? #Messi #WeAreMessi pic.twitter.com/uFTmdXjEXz — Leo Messi ? (@WeAreMessi) March 27, 2018 ×

Watch: Messi storms out of stadium as Spain hammers Argentina 6-1

Argentina's Lionel Messi looked on from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough.

Cameras captured the injured captain leaving his seat, presumably to head for the dressing room to console his distraught teammates, but the image was symbolic as his hapless team were humiliated 6-1 by a rampaging Spain side.

“They’ve really given us a slap in the face,” was how stunned&nbspArgentina&nbspcoach Jorge Sampaoli summed up the humiliating World Cup warm-up defeat in his post-match news conference.

“I feel bad for the boys, I take the responsibility. In the second half we didn’t have balance or solidity and we were all at sea.”

Argentina&nbspmay have swept Italy aside 2-0 on Friday without Messi, who has a muscle injury, but context is required given that the Italians failed to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1958 after a 1-0 playoff defeat by Sweden.

Granted, there was no Angel di Maria or Sergio Aguero for&nbspArgentina&nbspon Tuesday either but when it came to the crunch, the players wilted. Too often they rely on their Messi ‘get out of jail’ card.

It was Messi who fired a hat-trick in their final qualifier against Ecuador – after they went 1-0 down inside the first minute – to secure their spot at the World Cup in Russia.

Without him against top-level opposition in Madrid,&nbspArgentina&nbspwilted and to describe their defending as haphazard is generous.

Sampaoli may have a squad that allows him the luxury of leaving the likes of forwards Mauro Icardi and Paulo Dybala at home but on the other hand neither of their goalkeepers - Sergio Romero and Willy Caballero - play regularly for their clubs.

“Argentina&nbspis going to be living in torment from now until the World Cup,” former international Jorge Valdano said on Spanish radio station Onda Cero.

“Messi’s the only reason that anyone is even giving&nbspArgentina&nbspa sliver of hope of winning the World Cup. (Striker) Gonzalo Higuain is a marked man in&nbspArgentina&nbspand I wouldn’t like to be in Sampaoli’s shoes either.”

Many pundits suggest Messi cannot be considered a truly great player until he achieves something with&nbspArgentina. However, judging by Tuesday's performance he has already achieved a lot in helping&nbspArgentina&nbspreach the finals.

How far they go in Russia will surely be dictated by the form and fitness of the Barcelona forward as they prepare to face Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria in the group stage.

&nbsp

Argentina's Lionel Messi looked on from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough

Argentina's Lionel Messi looked on from the stands for as long as he could, but with 10 minutes remaining he had seen enough. Cameras captured the injured captain leaving his seat, presumably to head for the dressing room to console his distraught teammates, but the image was symbolic as his hapless team were humiliated 6-1 by a rampaging Spain side. “They’ve really given us a slap in the face,” was how stunned&nbspArgentina&nbspcoach Jorge Sampaoli summed up the humiliating World Cup warm-up defeat in his post-match news conference. “I feel bad for the boys, I take the responsibility. In the second half we didn’t have balance or solidity and we were all at sea.” Argentina&nbspmay have swept Italy aside 2-0 on Friday without Messi, who has a muscle injury, but context is required given that the Italians failed to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1958 after a 1-0 playoff defeat by Sweden. Granted, there was no Angel di Maria or Sergio Aguero for&nbspArgentina&nbspon Tuesday either but when it came to the crunch, the players wilted. Too often they rely on their Messi ‘get out of jail’ card. It was Messi who fired a hat-trick in their final qualifier against Ecuador – after they went 1-0 down inside the first minute – to secure their spot at the World Cup in Russia. Without him against top-level opposition in Madrid,&nbspArgentina&nbspwilted and to describe their defending as haphazard is generous. Sampaoli may have a squad that allows him the luxury of leaving the likes of forwards Mauro Icardi and Paulo Dybala at home but on the other hand neither of their goalkeepers - Sergio Romero and Willy Caballero - play regularly for their clubs. “Argentina&nbspis going to be living in torment from now until the World Cup,” former international Jorge Valdano said on Spanish radio station Onda Cero. “Messi’s the only reason that anyone is even giving&nbspArgentina&nbspa sliver of hope of winning the World Cup. (Striker) Gonzalo Higuain is a marked man in&nbspArgentina&nbspand I wouldn’t like to be in Sampaoli’s shoes either.” Many pundits suggest Messi cannot be considered a truly great player until he achieves something with&nbspArgentina. However, judging by Tuesday's performance he has already achieved a lot in helping&nbspArgentina&nbspreach the finals. How far they go in Russia will surely be dictated by the form and fitness of the Barcelona forward as they prepare to face Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria in the group stage.

World Cup friendlies: Spain humiliates Messi-less Argentina

Argentina&#39;s soccer national team trained on Saturday (March 24) at Real Madrid&#39;s sports city of Valdebebas ahead of friendly match against Spain on Tuesday (March 27) at Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria.

On Friday (March 23), late goals from Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini helped Jorge Sampaoli&#39;s side deprived of talisman Lionel Messi edge past Italy 2-0 at Manchester City&#39;s Etihad Stadium.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria.

Argentina's soccer national team trained on Saturday (March 24) at Real Madrid's sports city of Valdebebas ahead of friendly match against Spain on Tuesday (March 27) at Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Barcelona star Lionel Messi was not seen during training session due to physical discomforts neither striker Gonzalo Higuain nor Angel di Maria. On Friday (March 23), late goals from Ever Banega and Manuel Lanzini helped Jorge Sampaoli's side deprived of talisman Lionel Messi edge past Italy 2-0 at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium.

Messi absent from training as Argentina prepare to take on Spain

Ever Banega ensured Argentina weren&#39;t derailed by Lionel Messi&#39;s absence as the World Cup contenders clinched a 2-0 win over Italy in Friday&#39;s friendly at the Etihad Stadium.

Messi reportedly suffered a&nbsp;groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June.

Ahead of a busy end to the domestic season and then the World Cup, five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner Messi wasn&#39;t going to risk aggravating his injury.

Without their talismanic star, Jorge Sampaoli&#39;s side showed they have strength in depth with a solid display capped by late goals from Banega and Manuel Lanzini.

Having edged through to the World Cup thanks to Messi&#39;s treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage.

Clearly they need Messi to have any chance of lifting the trophy, but, with Sergio Aguero also sidelined by injury, Sampaoli will be encouraged by the performance of his understudies.

&quot;We played this game as a final,&quot; said Sampaoli, who is set to be without Angel Di Maria for next week&#39;s friendly against Spain after he suffered a thigh injury.

&quot;The team had a lot of stability and the collective level was very good.&quot;

Italy remain in turmoil after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1958.

It was an emotional evening for the Azzurri as they played for the first time since their defender Davide Astori died of a suspected cardiac arrest earlier this month.

&quot;We suffered with their control of possession and lost some shape,&quot; Italy boss Luigi Di Biagio said.

&quot;We deserved more in the second half but let&#39;s not forget who we were up against.

&quot;The group must develop. There are a lot of youngsters who need experience.

&quot;We must realise this is a difficult moment for the team. We ask everyone to be patient.&quot;

Di Biagio is in charge of Italy on an interim basis and his first move was to persuade Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon to end a brief international retirement.

Buffon, winning his 176th cap, was quickly called into action as Di Maria tested the 40-year-old with a low strike.

Lack of enthusiasm

It took another good stop from Buffon to keep out Nicolas Otamendi&#39;s header.

Although Argentina and Italy have won six World Cups between them, there were large swathes of seats left empty as the Manchester public showed a lack of enthusiasm for two teams whose current squads are far from their finest vintage.

The stay-aways weren&#39;t missing much, with chances at a premium until Buffon made an alert save to deny Nicolas Tagliafico.&nbsp;

Buffon saved his best for the final seconds of the first half as he repelled a shot from his Juventus team-mate Gonzalo Higuain before Daniele Rugani cleared the rebound off the line.

After their tame opening, Italy improved in the second half and should have been ahead when Leandro Paredes&#39;s woeful backpass was intercepted by Ciro Immobile.

Immobile set up Lorenzo Insigne with just Willy Caballero to beat, but the Napoli forward fired wide.

The crowd began chanting for Messi to be sent on, but their appeals were in vain.

Chelsea keeper Caballero saved well from Immobile, Antonio Candreva and Insigne as Italy enjoyed their best spell.

But, in the 75th minute, Argentina punished Di Biagio&#39;s men for their lack of cutting edge.

A flowing move reached the edge of the Italy penalty area, where Sevilla midfielder Banega arrowed a low strike past Buffon to the delight of the watching Messi.

West Ham&#39;s Lanzini wrapped up the victory with a well-taken curling effort from 18 yards in the 85th minute.

Messi reportedly suffered a groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June

Ever Banega ensured Argentina weren't derailed by Lionel Messi's absence as the World Cup contenders clinched a 2-0 win over Italy in Friday's friendly at the Etihad Stadium. Messi reportedly suffered a groin strain in training on Thursday, so the Barcelona forward was an unused substitute as Argentina kicked off their preparations for the World Cup in June. Ahead of a busy end to the domestic season and then the World Cup, five-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi wasn't going to risk aggravating his injury. Without their talismanic star, Jorge Sampaoli's side showed they have strength in depth with a solid display capped by late goals from Banega and Manuel Lanzini. Having edged through to the World Cup thanks to Messi's treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage. Clearly they need Messi to have any chance of lifting the trophy, but, with Sergio Aguero also sidelined by injury, Sampaoli will be encouraged by the performance of his understudies. "We played this game as a final," said Sampaoli, who is set to be without Angel Di Maria for next week's friendly against Spain after he suffered a thigh injury. "The team had a lot of stability and the collective level was very good." Italy remain in turmoil after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1958. It was an emotional evening for the Azzurri as they played for the first time since their defender Davide Astori died of a suspected cardiac arrest earlier this month. "We suffered with their control of possession and lost some shape," Italy boss Luigi Di Biagio said. "We deserved more in the second half but let's not forget who we were up against. "The group must develop. There are a lot of youngsters who need experience. "We must realise this is a difficult moment for the team. We ask everyone to be patient." Di Biagio is in charge of Italy on an interim basis and his first move was to persuade Juventus goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon to end a brief international retirement. Buffon, winning his 176th cap, was quickly called into action as Di Maria tested the 40-year-old with a low strike. Lack of enthusiasm It took another good stop from Buffon to keep out Nicolas Otamendi's header. Although Argentina and Italy have won six World Cups between them, there were large swathes of seats left empty as the Manchester public showed a lack of enthusiasm for two teams whose current squads are far from their finest vintage. The stay-aways weren't missing much, with chances at a premium until Buffon made an alert save to deny Nicolas Tagliafico. Buffon saved his best for the final seconds of the first half as he repelled a shot from his Juventus team-mate Gonzalo Higuain before Daniele Rugani cleared the rebound off the line. After their tame opening, Italy improved in the second half and should have been ahead when Leandro Paredes's woeful backpass was intercepted by Ciro Immobile. Immobile set up Lorenzo Insigne with just Willy Caballero to beat, but the Napoli forward fired wide. The crowd began chanting for Messi to be sent on, but their appeals were in vain. Chelsea keeper Caballero saved well from Immobile, Antonio Candreva and Insigne as Italy enjoyed their best spell. But, in the 75th minute, Argentina punished Di Biagio's men for their lack of cutting edge. A flowing move reached the edge of the Italy penalty area, where Sevilla midfielder Banega arrowed a low strike past Buffon to the delight of the watching Messi. West Ham's Lanzini wrapped up the victory with a well-taken curling effort from 18 yards in the 85th minute.

Messi isn't missed as Argentina down Italy

Lionel Messi begins his road to World Cup redemption on Friday as Argentina take on Italy in a glamour friendly, desperate to win a major international prize to crown his glorious career.

In Barcelona&#39;s colours, Messi has experienced nothing but success, winning eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns, while earning FIFA&#39;s Ballon d&#39;Or award five times.

But pulling on Argentina&#39;s blue-and-white striped shirt has brought the forward some of the most painful moments of his career.

Rarely able to hit the same heights with Argentina that he routinely scales with Barcelona, Messi has endured stinging criticism from &#39;Albiceleste&#39; fans at times.

Nobody would dispute Messi&#39;s status as one of the all-time greats, but many in Argentina believe he cannot be considered on the same level as Diego Maradona until he wins a major honour with his country, as his compatriot did at the 1986 World Cup.

Rubbing salt into those wounds, Messi has lost in three successive major finals with Argentina as the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 and 2016 Copa America titles slipped from his grasp.

&quot;I cried many times because of games like these, for lost finals, for what they mean and for not being able to achieve the dream of a country. It was a hard blow to take,&quot; Messi recently told Argentine television programme La Cornisa.

The last World Cup was devastating to Messi as he missed a golden opportunity to put Argentina ahead in the final against Germany, who went on to win 1-0 in extra-time.

As if that was not bad enough, for the first time in his career, he missed in a penalty shootout when Argentina were beaten by Chile in the Copa America final two years ago.

Last chance? 
Although Messi is still in his prime, the 30-year-old realises the World Cup in Russia, which starts in June, could represent his last chance to hoist the famous gold trophy.

He will be approaching the twilight of his career by the time the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar. Messi will have also noted that key Argentina team-mates Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria, Nicolas Otamendi and Javier Mascherano will all be 30 or over this year.

&quot;Obviously, we depend on results and therefore the thinking in this group is that having got to three finals and not being able to win and even then people say a lot of things about us, if we are not champions then we won&#39;t have another one (opportunity),&quot; Messi said.

Having edged through to the finals thanks to Messi&#39;s treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage.

First up is an intriguing test against an Italy side that failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli believes the match at Manchester City&#39;s ground will help to sharpen his side before a second friendly in Spain next week.

&quot;Each match and training session is fundamental for us in preparation for the World Cup. Playing against Italy, in a venue as important as Etihad Stadium, is an invitation to a great event,&quot; he said.

&quot;Every Argentine in the world wants to be there when the national team plays. We are certain they will accompany us for this one.&quot; AFP

This could be Messi's last chance to win the World Cup

Lionel Messi begins his road to World Cup redemption on Friday as Argentina take on Italy in a glamour friendly, desperate to win a major international prize to crown his glorious career. In Barcelona's colours, Messi has experienced nothing but success, winning eight La Liga titles and four Champions League crowns, while earning FIFA's Ballon d'Or award five times. But pulling on Argentina's blue-and-white striped shirt has brought the forward some of the most painful moments of his career. Rarely able to hit the same heights with Argentina that he routinely scales with Barcelona, Messi has endured stinging criticism from 'Albiceleste' fans at times. Nobody would dispute Messi's status as one of the all-time greats, but many in Argentina believe he cannot be considered on the same level as Diego Maradona until he wins a major honour with his country, as his compatriot did at the 1986 World Cup. Rubbing salt into those wounds, Messi has lost in three successive major finals with Argentina as the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 and 2016 Copa America titles slipped from his grasp. "I cried many times because of games like these, for lost finals, for what they mean and for not being able to achieve the dream of a country. It was a hard blow to take," Messi recently told Argentine television programme La Cornisa. The last World Cup was devastating to Messi as he missed a golden opportunity to put Argentina ahead in the final against Germany, who went on to win 1-0 in extra-time. As if that was not bad enough, for the first time in his career, he missed in a penalty shootout when Argentina were beaten by Chile in the Copa America final two years ago. Last chance? Although Messi is still in his prime, the 30-year-old realises the World Cup in Russia, which starts in June, could represent his last chance to hoist the famous gold trophy. He will be approaching the twilight of his career by the time the 2022 edition kicks off in Qatar. Messi will have also noted that key Argentina team-mates Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria, Nicolas Otamendi and Javier Mascherano will all be 30 or over this year. "Obviously, we depend on results and therefore the thinking in this group is that having got to three finals and not being able to win and even then people say a lot of things about us, if we are not champions then we won't have another one (opportunity)," Messi said. Having edged through to the finals thanks to Messi's treble in a 3-1 win over Ecuador in October, Argentina are focused on peaking in Russia, where they will play Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria in the group stage. First up is an intriguing test against an Italy side that failed to qualify for the World Cup. Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli believes the match at Manchester City's ground will help to sharpen his side before a second friendly in Spain next week. "Each match and training session is fundamental for us in preparation for the World Cup. Playing against Italy, in a venue as important as Etihad Stadium, is an invitation to a great event," he said. "Every Argentine in the world wants to be there when the national team plays. We are certain they will accompany us for this one." AFP

Football World Cup friendlies: Argentina take on Italy

Argentinian football squad is gearing up for the upcoming World Cup warm-up match which is scheduled to take place on March 24 against Italy at Eastlands, Manchester.

Argentine star, Lionel Messi joined up with the teams mates for the training sessions.

The Barca striker arrived to start working with the rest of the squad on Tuesday and was present at a training session open to media in the afternoon.

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[SELECCI&Oacute;N MAYOR] Con la presencia de Lionel <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Argentina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Argentina</a> realiza su entrenamiento vespertino. Pr&oacute;ximo desaf&iacute;o: <a href="https://twitter.com/azzurri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@azzurri</a> ???????? <a href="https://t.co/ubXOpW9gxu">pic.twitter.com/ubXOpW9gxu</a>
&mdash; Selecci&oacute;n Argentina (@Argentina) <a href="https://twitter.com/Argentina/status/976157043131285506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero, who was present at the training session but was not participating in the training session as he has been sidelined with a knee injury.

Few other players were also there like Nicolas Otamendi, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano and Marcos Rojo.

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Argentine star, Lionel Messi joined up with the teams mates for the training sessions for upcoming World Cup warm-up match against Italy

Argentinian football squad is gearing up for the upcoming World Cup warm-up match which is scheduled to take place on March 24 against Italy at Eastlands, Manchester. Argentine star, Lionel Messi joined up with the teams mates for the training sessions. The Barca striker arrived to start working with the rest of the squad on Tuesday and was present at a training session open to media in the afternoon. [SELECCIÓN MAYOR] Con la presencia de Lionel #Messi, @Argentina realiza su entrenamiento vespertino. Próximo desafío: @azzurri ???????? pic.twitter.com/ubXOpW9gxu — Selección Argentina (@Argentina) March 20, 2018 × Sergio Aguero, who was present at the training session but was not participating in the training session as he has been sidelined with a knee injury. Few other players were also there like Nicolas Otamendi, Gonzalo Higuain, Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano and Marcos Rojo. [SELECCIÓN MAYOR] ¡Llegó el capitán! Lionel #Messi ya se encuentra en la concentración argentina en Manchester. A post shared by Selección Argentina (@afaseleccion) on Mar 20, 2018 at 7:32am PDT × [SELECCIÓN MAYOR] Pasó el segundo entrenamiento del día. ¡Mirá las mejores imágenes! A post shared by Selección Argentina (@afaseleccion) on Mar 20, 2018 at 1:28pm PDT ×

Football: Argentina to play Italy before World Cup

An&nbsp;ice&nbsp;bridge&nbsp;broke off from the Perito Moreno glacier in Argentina&#39;s Patagonia region over Saturday (March 10) and Sunday (March 11), in a cyclical phenomenon that attracts thousands of tourists.

Videos shared by the National Parks Administration in Argentina showed the moment the glacier ruptured at Los Glaciares National Park.

The glacier, a massive tongue of&nbsp;ice&nbsp;in the Santa Cruz province that covers 250 square kilometres (97 square miles), advances yearly into a lake, known as Lago Argentino.

As Perito Moreno moves forward, it cuts off a river feeding the lake. Water builds up pressure and slowly undermines the&nbsp;ice, forming a tunnel until&nbsp;ice&nbsp;comes tumbling down.

The&nbsp;ice&nbsp;bridge&nbsp;broke off late Sunday (March 11) and chunks of&nbsp;ice&nbsp;are expected to fall within the next few days. The last rupture was in 2016.

Videos shared by the National Parks Administration in Argentina showed the moment the glacier ruptured at Los Glaciares National Park.

An ice bridge broke off from the Perito Moreno glacier in Argentina's Patagonia region over Saturday (March 10) and Sunday (March 11), in a cyclical phenomenon that attracts thousands of tourists. Videos shared by the National Parks Administration in Argentina showed the moment the glacier ruptured at Los Glaciares National Park. The glacier, a massive tongue of ice in the Santa Cruz province that covers 250 square kilometres (97 square miles), advances yearly into a lake, known as Lago Argentino. As Perito Moreno moves forward, it cuts off a river feeding the lake. Water builds up pressure and slowly undermines the ice, forming a tunnel until ice comes tumbling down. The ice bridge broke off late Sunday (March 11) and chunks of ice are expected to fall within the next few days. The last rupture was in 2016.

Watch: Ice bridge breaks off in Argentina's Patagonia region

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-aguero-suffers-injury-out-for-2-weeks-35439">Sergio Aguero</a> has been included in Argentina&#39;s squad for upcoming friendly matches against Italy and Spain even though the Manchester City striker is currently injured.

Aguero revealed at the weekend that he would be out for two weeks with a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sergio-aguero-suffers-injury-out-for-2-weeks-35439">knee injury</a>, meaning he will not feature for City again until after the international break.

It would also appear to make his presence doubtful for the matches against Spain on March 23 and Italy four days later.

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During yesterday&#39;s training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club&#39;s doctors told me I&#39;ll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it&#39;s time for a full recovery!
&mdash; Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/972859117726588928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona&#39;s game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad.

Argentina plays Italy at City&#39;s Etihad Stadium in Manchester before facing Spain at Atletico Madrid&#39;s Wanda Metropolitano stadium.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Manchester United/ENG), Nahuel Guzman (Tigres/MEX), Willy Caballero (Chelsea/ENG)

Defenders: Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Ramiro Funes Mori (Everton/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Taglafico (Ajax/NED), Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Acuna (Sporting Lisbon/POR), Fabricio Bustos (Independiente)

Midfielders: Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), &nbsp;Leandro Paredes (Zenit St Petersburg/RUS), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris SG/FRA), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris SG/FRA), Pablo Perez (Boca Juniors), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente)

Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Diego Perotti (Roma/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors), Lautaro Martinez (Racing Club)

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Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona's game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad

Sergio Aguero has been included in Argentina's squad for upcoming friendly matches against Italy and Spain even though the Manchester City striker is currently injured. Aguero revealed at the weekend that he would be out for two weeks with a knee injury, meaning he will not feature for City again until after the international break. It would also appear to make his presence doubtful for the matches against Spain on March 23 and Italy four days later. During yesterday's training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club's doctors told me I'll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it's time for a full recovery! — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) March 11, 2018 × Lionel Messi, who missed Barcelona's game at the weekend to attend the birth of his son, is also in the squad. Argentina plays Italy at City's Etihad Stadium in Manchester before facing Spain at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Squad: Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero (Manchester United/ENG), Nahuel Guzman (Tigres/MEX), Willy Caballero (Chelsea/ENG) Defenders: Federico Fazio (Roma/ITA), Ramiro Funes Mori (Everton/ENG), Marcos Rojo (Manchester United/ENG), Nicolas Taglafico (Ajax/NED), Gabriel Mercado (Sevilla/ESP), Nicolas Otamendi (Manchester City/ENG), Marcos Acuna (Sporting Lisbon/POR), Fabricio Bustos (Independiente) Midfielders: Eduardo Salvio (Benfica/POR), Ever Banega (Sevilla/ESP), Leandro Paredes (Zenit St Petersburg/RUS), Manuel Lanzini (West Ham/ENG), Javier Mascherano (Hebei Fortune/CHN), Giovani Lo Celso (Paris SG/FRA), Lucas Biglia (AC Milan/ITA), Angel Di Maria (Paris SG/FRA), Pablo Perez (Boca Juniors), Maximiliano Meza (Independiente) Forwards: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City/ENG), Lionel Messi (Barcelona/ESP), Gonzalo Higuain (Juventus/ITA), Diego Perotti (Roma/ITA), Cristian Pavon (Boca Juniors), Lautaro Martinez (Racing Club)

Sergio Aguero named in Argentina squad despite injury

In-form&nbsp;Sergio Aguero of Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has been ruled out due to a knee injury. He will miss Monday&#39;s&nbsp;Premier League match against Stoke.

It is expected that it will take two weeks time to heal the injury and&nbsp;Aguero will mark his return in the time for City&#39;s next fixture at Everton on March 31.

He shared the news on his official Twitter account captioning, &quot;During yesterday&#39;s training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club&#39;s doctors told me I&#39;ll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it&#39;s time for a full recovery!&quot;

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During yesterday&#39;s training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club&#39;s doctors told me I&#39;ll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it&#39;s time for a full recovery!
&mdash; Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) <a href="https://twitter.com/aguerosergiokun/status/972859117726588928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Argentine striker,&nbsp;Aguero&nbsp;is also a doubt for Argentina&#39;s World Cup warm-up friendlies against Italy and Spain on March 23 and 27 respectively.

Manchester City is set to claim the&nbsp;Premier League title as they hold a 13-point lead and&nbsp;Aguero will have a big part to play if City&nbsp;are&nbsp;to land a first-ever Champions League after easing into the quarter-finals for just the second time in the club&#39;s history with a 5-2 aggregate win over Basel&nbsp;are in&nbsp;the last 16.

The Argentine striker, Aguero is also a doubt for Argentina's World Cup warm-up friendlies against Italy and Spain on March 23 and 27 respectively

In-form Sergio Aguero of Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has been ruled out due to a knee injury. He will miss Monday's Premier League match against Stoke. It is expected that it will take two weeks time to heal the injury and Aguero will mark his return in the time for City's next fixture at Everton on March 31. He shared the news on his official Twitter account captioning, "During yesterday's training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club's doctors told me I'll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it's time for a full recovery!" During yesterday's training I had a discomfort on my left knee. The club's doctors told me I'll be back with the team in approximately two weeks. Now it's time for a full recovery! — Sergio Kun Aguero (@aguerosergiokun) March 11, 2018 × The Argentine striker, Aguero is also a doubt for Argentina's World Cup warm-up friendlies against Italy and Spain on March 23 and 27 respectively. Manchester City is set to claim the Premier League title as they hold a 13-point lead and Aguero will have a big part to play if City are to land a first-ever Champions League after easing into the quarter-finals for just the second time in the club's history with a 5-2 aggregate win over Basel are in the last 16.

Sergio Aguero suffers injury, out for 2 weeks

Lionel Messi has withdrawn from the squad for the game in Andalusia due to &quot;personal reasons&quot; as stated by Barcelona earlier this morning. The &quot;personal reasons&quot; were later confirmed as the birth of his third baby boy &quot;Ciro.&quot;

In Greek, the meaning of the name Ciro is sun or lordly and in Spanish also, the meaning is a bit similar which is throne or sun.

The Barcelona superstar has been given time off so that he can spend time with his family and celebrate the happy&nbsp;moments together.

It is expected that he will and be back in time for their Champions League clash against Chelsea on Wednesday.

Messi shared a beautiful photo on social networking sites stating, &quot;Welcome Ciro!! I thank God that everything went perfectly. Mother and baby boy are doing great. We&#39;re so happy!!&quot;

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Earlier in the month, Messi&#39;s wife Antonella Roccuzzo had revealed the gender and name of her third child. She shared a picture of a blue baby bed which was engraved with the name Ciro.&nbsp;

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The Barcelona star&#39;s wife Antonella Roccuzzo has announced name and gender of third child. (Instagram)
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The adorable pair shares two sons, five-year-old Thiago and two-year-old Mateo both of them were born before marriage.&nbsp;

Barcelona&#39;s striker Lionel Messi must have planned a new tattoo for his third baby and as he already has tributes to Mateo and Thiago.

Antonella Roccuzzo had been very open about pregnancy as she kept posting related pictures on social networking sites.

On Mother&#39;s Day in Argentina, Roccuzzo posted a picture of the couple and two sons Thiago, four, and Mateo, two, touching her stomach, with the caption &quot;Family of five&quot;.

Messi and Antonella, childhood lovers, got married in June 2017 in their hometown Rosario in Argentina.

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FC Barcelona striker shared a beautiful photo on social networking sites quoting, "Welcome Ciro!! I thank God that everything went perfectly. Mother and baby boy are doing great. We're so happy!!"

Lionel Messi has withdrawn from the squad for the game in Andalusia due to "personal reasons" as stated by Barcelona earlier this morning. The "personal reasons" were later confirmed as the birth of his third baby boy "Ciro." In Greek, the meaning of the name Ciro is sun or lordly and in Spanish also, the meaning is a bit similar which is throne or sun. The Barcelona superstar has been given time off so that he can spend time with his family and celebrate the happy moments together. It is expected that he will and be back in time for their Champions League clash against Chelsea on Wednesday. Messi shared a beautiful photo on social networking sites stating, "Welcome Ciro!! I thank God that everything went perfectly. Mother and baby boy are doing great. We're so happy!!" × Earlier in the month, Messi's wife Antonella Roccuzzo had revealed the gender and name of her third child. She shared a picture of a blue baby bed which was engraved with the name Ciro. The Barcelona star's wife Antonella Roccuzzo has announced name and gender of third child. (Instagram) × The adorable pair shares two sons, five-year-old Thiago and two-year-old Mateo both of them were born before marriage. Barcelona's striker Lionel Messi must have planned a new tattoo for his third baby and as he already has tributes to Mateo and Thiago. Antonella Roccuzzo had been very open about pregnancy as she kept posting related pictures on social networking sites. On Mother's Day in Argentina, Roccuzzo posted a picture of the couple and two sons Thiago, four, and Mateo, two, touching her stomach, with the caption "Family of five". Messi and Antonella, childhood lovers, got married in June 2017 in their hometown Rosario in Argentina. × ×

Messi out of Barca squad to welcome baby 'Ciro'

India&rsquo;s hopes of making it to the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup were crushed when they were beaten 4-2 by Australia in Ipoh on Tuesday.

Having lost to Argentina 2-3 in their campaign opener and drawn 1-1 against England in the next match, the loss leaves India with just one point from three games.

India were trailing 0-4 after the third quarter but scored two quick goals through Ramandeep Singh in the fourth quarter to avoid a whitewash.

Mark Knowles, Aran Zalewski, Daniel Beale and Blake Govers scored for Australia.

Still looking for their first win, India will now face Malaysia next on Wednesday.

India were trailing 0-4 after the third quarter but scored two quick goals

India’s hopes of making it to the final of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup were crushed when they were beaten 4-2 by Australia in Ipoh on Tuesday. Having lost to Argentina 2-3 in their campaign opener and drawn 1-1 against England in the next match, the loss leaves India with just one point from three games. India were trailing 0-4 after the third quarter but scored two quick goals through Ramandeep Singh in the fourth quarter to avoid a whitewash. Mark Knowles, Aran Zalewski, Daniel Beale and Blake Govers scored for Australia. Still looking for their first win, India will now face Malaysia next on Wednesday.

Australia outplay India 4-2 in Azlan Shah hockey

Juan Martin Del Potro continued his dominance over Kevin Anderson, putting the brakes on the South African&#39;s brilliant run of success to claim the ATP Mexican Open title on Saturday night.

Del Potro defeated the hard-serving Anderson 6-4, 6-4 in the final to claim his first title of 2018 and post his seventh-straight career victory over Anderson.

The 29-year-old Del Potro recorded his 21st career ATP title but this is one of his biggest in years and the earliest he has hoisted a trophy since the 2014 season.

The Argentine won the title by battling through a tough draw that included a trio of top 10 players.

He defeated Mischa Zverev, four-time&nbsp;Acapulco champion David Ferrer, No. 6 Dominic Thiem and No. 5 Alexander Zverev before dispatching world number eight Anderson.

Del Potro has owned Anderson on the hardcourts ever since their first meeting in 2011 in Delray Beach, Florida that he also won 6-4, 6-4. Since then, they have squared off in Vienna, Valencia, Basel, Washington and Delray again with all the matches taking place on the hard surface.

Del Potro served masterfully on Saturday, blasting 12 aces and winning 78 percent of his first serve and 64 percent of his second serve points in the one hour, 40-minute match.

Del Potro managed to hold serve throughout the match and broke Anderson twice.&nbsp;

Anderson, of Johannesburg, had his eight-match winning streak snapped and was coming off a title at the New York Open.

On the women&#39;s side, Lesia Tsurenko successfully defended her WTA Mexican Open title by rallying from a first set loss to beat Stefanie Voegele 5-7, 7-6 (7/2), 6-2.

Tsurenko, of Ukraine, earned her 10th straight victory this week and claimed her fourth career WTA Tour title by outlasting Voegele in the two hours, 45-minute match.

The seventh-seeded Tsurenko hit two aces and won 64 percent of her first-serve points coughing up 10 double faults as she was broken six times.

At one stage she was just three points away from defeat in the second set, but she hung on and has now won at least one title each year since claiming her first in 2015 at the Guangzhou, China tournament.

The unseeded Voegele, who was playing in her first final, blasted four aces and had her serve broken seven times.

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Del Potro defeated the hard-serving Anderson 6-4, 6-4 in the final to claim his first title of 2018

Juan Martin Del Potro continued his dominance over Kevin Anderson, putting the brakes on the South African's brilliant run of success to claim the ATP Mexican Open title on Saturday night. Del Potro defeated the hard-serving Anderson 6-4, 6-4 in the final to claim his first title of 2018 and post his seventh-straight career victory over Anderson. The 29-year-old Del Potro recorded his 21st career ATP title but this is one of his biggest in years and the earliest he has hoisted a trophy since the 2014 season. The Argentine won the title by battling through a tough draw that included a trio of top 10 players. He defeated Mischa Zverev, four-time Acapulco champion David Ferrer, No. 6 Dominic Thiem and No. 5 Alexander Zverev before dispatching world number eight Anderson. Del Potro has owned Anderson on the hardcourts ever since their first meeting in 2011 in Delray Beach, Florida that he also won 6-4, 6-4. Since then, they have squared off in Vienna, Valencia, Basel, Washington and Delray again with all the matches taking place on the hard surface. Del Potro served masterfully on Saturday, blasting 12 aces and winning 78 percent of his first serve and 64 percent of his second serve points in the one hour, 40-minute match. Del Potro managed to hold serve throughout the match and broke Anderson twice. Anderson, of Johannesburg, had his eight-match winning streak snapped and was coming off a title at the New York Open. On the women's side, Lesia Tsurenko successfully defended her WTA Mexican Open title by rallying from a first set loss to beat Stefanie Voegele 5-7, 7-6 (7/2), 6-2. Tsurenko, of Ukraine, earned her 10th straight victory this week and claimed her fourth career WTA Tour title by outlasting Voegele in the two hours, 45-minute match. The seventh-seeded Tsurenko hit two aces and won 64 percent of her first-serve points coughing up 10 double faults as she was broken six times. At one stage she was just three points away from defeat in the second set, but she hung on and has now won at least one title each year since claiming her first in 2015 at the Guangzhou, China tournament. The unseeded Voegele, who was playing in her first final, blasted four aces and had her serve broken seven times.

Del Potro foils Anderson to claim Mexican Open

India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey here today.

Star drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat (13th, 23rd, 33rd minute) scored a hat-trick for Argentina while Amit Rohidas (24th, 32nd) converted two penalty corners for India.

The play was stopped in the fourth quarter due to heavy rain. At resumption, India was reduced to 10 men though a last-gasp effort from Talwinder Singh almost found the equaliser for India.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsARG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsARG</a> Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Live Updates:<a href="https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90">https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90</a> 
 
First half stats:- <a href="https://t.co/v6UfrPBozA">pic.twitter.com/v6UfrPBozA</a>
&mdash; The Field (@thefield_in) <a href="https://twitter.com/thefield_in/status/969859759573647360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India next plays England tomorrow. The other teams taking part in the tournament are Australia, Ireland and Malaysia.

India is fielding a young team here in the absence of key players like Akashdeep Singh, SV Sunil, Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh.

Drag-flick specialists Rupinder Pal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh too have been rested.

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FT. Argentina take the spoils in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on 3rd March, but India&#39;s encouraging performance showed signs of grit as they fought back from two goals down and kept the pressure on till the end.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvARG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvARG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SultanAzlanShahCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SultanAzlanShahCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/6IRt3NEiDW">pic.twitter.com/6IRt3NEiDW</a>
&mdash; Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/969880941874135042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup

India went down 2-3 to Olympic champions Argentina in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey here today. Star drag-flicker Gonzalo Peillat (13th, 23rd, 33rd minute) scored a hat-trick for Argentina while Amit Rohidas (24th, 32nd) converted two penalty corners for India. The play was stopped in the fourth quarter due to heavy rain. At resumption, India was reduced to 10 men though a last-gasp effort from Talwinder Singh almost found the equaliser for India. #INDvsARG Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Live Updates:https://t.co/BqjFjEJi90 First half stats:- pic.twitter.com/v6UfrPBozA — The Field (@thefield_in) March 3, 2018 × India next plays England tomorrow. The other teams taking part in the tournament are Australia, Ireland and Malaysia. India is fielding a young team here in the absence of key players like Akashdeep Singh, SV Sunil, Mandeep Singh, Manpreet Singh and goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. Drag-flick specialists Rupinder Pal Singh and Harmanpreet Singh too have been rested. FT. Argentina take the spoils in the opening match of the 27th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup on 3rd March, but India's encouraging performance showed signs of grit as they fought back from two goals down and kept the pressure on till the end.#IndiaKaGame #INDvARG #SultanAzlanShahCup pic.twitter.com/6IRt3NEiDW — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) March 3, 2018 ×

Hockey: India lose to Argentina in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup opener

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is prepared to go back on his decision to retire from international football if he is picked for the friendlies against England and Argentina next month.

The 40-year-old had called it a day in November immediately after Italy&rsquo;s astonishing failure to qualify for this year&rsquo;s World Cup, ending a 20-year international career in which he made 175 appearances.

However, on Monday Italy&rsquo;s interim coach Luigi Di Biagio said that it was not right that Buffon&rsquo;s international career should end with the infamous 0-0 draw against Sweden which condemned them to a first World Cup absence for 60 years.

&ldquo;I had thought about going on holiday for a few days with my family, but when the national team needs you, you must be present and not desert them,&rdquo; replied Buffon during the programme Tiki Taka broadcast on the Mediaset network.

&ldquo;There&rsquo;s nothing to add to Di Biagio&rsquo;s words other than I feel a sense of responsibility and loyalty which I must give to the national team in this transitional moment,&rdquo; added the 2006 World Cup winner.

&ldquo;I repeat, it&rsquo;s a way of showing loyalty and a sense of responsibility towards Italy. A new national team is being born and the first games are not comfortable ones because we will face Argentina and England. &ldquo;I think that any experienced player can be useful at the start, even if it&rsquo;s just to give advice to the young ones.&rdquo;

He might be picked for the friendlies against England and Argentina next month

Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is prepared to go back on his decision to retire from international football if he is picked for the friendlies against England and Argentina next month. The 40-year-old had called it a day in November immediately after Italy’s astonishing failure to qualify for this year’s World Cup, ending a 20-year international career in which he made 175 appearances. However, on Monday Italy’s interim coach Luigi Di Biagio said that it was not right that Buffon’s international career should end with the infamous 0-0 draw against Sweden which condemned them to a first World Cup absence for 60 years. “I had thought about going on holiday for a few days with my family, but when the national team needs you, you must be present and not desert them,” replied Buffon during the programme Tiki Taka broadcast on the Mediaset network. “There’s nothing to add to Di Biagio’s words other than I feel a sense of responsibility and loyalty which I must give to the national team in this transitional moment,” added the 2006 World Cup winner. “I repeat, it’s a way of showing loyalty and a sense of responsibility towards Italy. A new national team is being born and the first games are not comfortable ones because we will face Argentina and England. “I think that any experienced player can be useful at the start, even if it’s just to give advice to the young ones.”

Goalkeeping legend Buffon ready to play again for Italy

Lionel Messi, five-time Ballon d&rsquo;Or winner was awarded the Barca Players Association&rsquo;s Fair Play Award on Monday for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance during that season.

Messi was handed the award by Barca Players Association President Ramon Alfonseda at a ceremony attended by FC Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu as well.

This award is given annually to the Barca first team after observing both on and off-field conduct. More than 3,300 people voted for the award on social media. Among the six finalists, Messi was chosen for the award by a 15-person jury.

In the ongoing season with 20 goals, Messi is leading La Liga in scoring.

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Well done, Leo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a>! ????<a href="https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0">https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/963169623960059905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The award is given annually by Barca Players Association, Messi received the award for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance and his conduct on and off field

Lionel Messi, five-time Ballon d’Or winner was awarded the Barca Players Association’s Fair Play Award on Monday for the season 2015-2016 for his splendid performance during that season. Messi was handed the award by Barca Players Association President Ramon Alfonseda at a ceremony attended by FC Barcelona President Josep Maria Bartomeu as well. This award is given annually to the Barca first team after observing both on and off-field conduct. More than 3,300 people voted for the award on social media. Among the six finalists, Messi was chosen for the award by a 15-person jury. In the ongoing season with 20 goals, Messi is leading La Liga in scoring. Well done, Leo #Messi! ????https://t.co/VouIrVIgh0 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 12, 2018 ×

Lionel Messi receives Fair Play Award

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