<p>Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his unhappiness with the pitch at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium after his team's 2-0 win over Canada in the Copa America opener on Thursday, saying it was unsuitable for this level of competition.</p>

<p>The venue, which hosts matches for Major League Soccer's Atlanta United and the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, usually has an artificial pitch but a temporary grass surface was installed ahead of the tournament opener.</p>

<p>Argentina lacked their usual fluidity in the first half and looked vulnerable at times, much like their 2022 World Cup opener in Qatar where they were stunned 2-1 by Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-starrer-argentina-begin-copa-title-defence-with-2-0-win-over-canada-733693">Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina begin Copa title defence with 2-0 win over Canada</a></strong></p>

<p>"The start looked like the match with Saudi Arabia, with the difference that we played on a more decent pitch that time," Scaloni told reporters. "With all due respect, thank goodness we won. Otherwise, it would have been a cheap excuse. We have known for seven months that we are going to play here and they changed the turf two days ago.</p>

<p>"It is not good for the show. It is not an excuse, the stadium is beautiful and with synthetic turf it must be spectacular, but with today's turf it is not suitable for this kind of players."</p>

<p>Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez echoed his manager's sentiments, telling TyC Sports: "Coming here against a strong Canada, with good forwards and on a field that is a disaster made it a little difficult for us.</p>

<p>"We have to improve in that aspect. Otherwise, the Copa America will always be at a lower level than the European Championship."</p>

<p>Canada captain Alphonso Davies was not content with his side's display against the World Cup champions.</p>

<p>"We have to change our attitude towards the game," he told Canadian broadcaster TSN. "The first half we played well, but in the second half we let every long ball bounce. It was a disappointing result, we need to look at everything we did wrong in the game and fix it as soon as possible."</p>


Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his unhappiness with the pitch at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium after his team's 2-0 win over Canada in the Copa America opener on Thursday, saying it was unsuitable for this level of competition.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his unhappiness with the pitch at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium after his team's 2-0 win over Canada in the Copa America opener on Thursday, saying it was unsuitable for this level of competition. The venue, which hosts matches for Major League Soccer's Atlanta United and the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, usually has an artificial pitch but a temporary grass surface was installed ahead of the tournament opener. Argentina lacked their usual fluidity in the first half and looked vulnerable at times, much like their 2022 World Cup opener in Qatar where they were stunned 2-1 by Saudi Arabia. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina begin Copa title defence with 2-0 win over Canada "The start looked like the match with Saudi Arabia, with the difference that we played on a more decent pitch that time," Scaloni told reporters. "With all due respect, thank goodness we won. Otherwise, it would have been a cheap excuse. We have known for seven months that we are going to play here and they changed the turf two days ago. "It is not good for the show. It is not an excuse, the stadium is beautiful and with synthetic turf it must be spectacular, but with today's turf it is not suitable for this kind of players." Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez echoed his manager's sentiments, telling TyC Sports: "Coming here against a strong Canada, with good forwards and on a field that is a disaster made it a little difficult for us. "We have to improve in that aspect. Otherwise, the Copa America will always be at a lower level than the European Championship." Canada captain Alphonso Davies was not content with his side's display against the World Cup champions. "We have to change our attitude towards the game," he told Canadian broadcaster TSN. "The first half we played well, but in the second half we let every long ball bounce. It was a disappointing result, we need to look at everything we did wrong in the game and fix it as soon as possible."

Copa America: Argentina coach bashes Atlanta pitch despite win, says 'no excuses but it’s not good for show'

<p>World Cup winners Argentina must put recent success behind them when they begin their Copa America title defence, coach Lionel Scaloni said on Wednesday ahead of their opening game against Canada.</p>

<p>The tournament brings together 10 South American teams and six from North and Central America and the Caribbean in the second Copa hosted by the United States.</p>

<p>Scaloni said his team must raise their game to win the title again, as facing CONCACAF teams was no easier than playing a European or South American sides.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappes-broken-nose-pushes-france-to-deploy-plan-b-at-euros-2024-733590">Kylian Mbappe’s broken nose pushes France to deploy Plan B at Euros 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are talking about things that have already passed. (Winning the World Cup and the Copa America) was very nice but it's over," the Argentine manager told a news conference. "Football matches are all different, there are no easier games than others. A lot of things can happen. The difficulty of France, Brazil or Canada can be the same.</p>

<p>"It will be a difficult Copa America as always, we are prepared for what is to come. We are doing well, with clear ideas and knowing the difficulty of this tournament."</p>

<p>Ahead of their opening match against Canada on Thursday, the 46-year-old said enjoying the game had been the key to his team's success after failing to win the 2015 and 2016 Copa finals and a semi-final exit in 2019.</p>

<p>"Beyond the titles, we have enjoyed a lot. It's a pleasure to watch how (the players) give their all," he said. "That leads to being able to achieve things. We have shown that even if we didn't win like in 2019, we were able to continue and show you can do things.</p>

<p>Argentina also take on Peru and Chile in Group A.</p>


World Cup winners Argentina must put recent success behind them when they begin their Copa America title defence, coach Lionel Scaloni said on Wednesday ahead of their opening game against Canada.

World Cup winners Argentina must put recent success behind them when they begin their Copa America title defence, coach Lionel Scaloni said on Wednesday ahead of their opening game against Canada. The tournament brings together 10 South American teams and six from North and Central America and the Caribbean in the second Copa hosted by the United States. Scaloni said his team must raise their game to win the title again, as facing CONCACAF teams was no easier than playing a European or South American sides. ALSO READ: Kylian Mbappe’s broken nose pushes France to deploy Plan B at Euros 2024 "We are talking about things that have already passed. (Winning the World Cup and the Copa America) was very nice but it's over," the Argentine manager told a news conference. "Football matches are all different, there are no easier games than others. A lot of things can happen. The difficulty of France, Brazil or Canada can be the same. "It will be a difficult Copa America as always, we are prepared for what is to come. We are doing well, with clear ideas and knowing the difficulty of this tournament." Ahead of their opening match against Canada on Thursday, the 46-year-old said enjoying the game had been the key to his team's success after failing to win the 2015 and 2016 Copa finals and a semi-final exit in 2019. "Beyond the titles, we have enjoyed a lot. It's a pleasure to watch how (the players) give their all," he said. "That leads to being able to achieve things. We have shown that even if we didn't win like in 2019, we were able to continue and show you can do things. Argentina also take on Peru and Chile in Group A.

Lionel Scaloni expects ‘difficult’ Copa America for Argentina as defending champions gear up for title defence

<p>Legendary Brazil player Ronaldinho slammed his former side on Saturday (June 15) as he posted an emotional message on his Instagram account. Ronaldinho, who won the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil was critical of the players, claiming they don’t fight for the country’s colours and lack love for the nation while representing. Interestingly, Brazil’s current crop of players consists of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo who helped Real Madrid win the Champions League title.</p>

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<h2><strong>Ronaldinho blasts national side</strong></h2>

<p>“This is a sad moment for those who love Brazilian soccer. It’s getting hard to find the spirit to watch the games. This is perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years, it has no respectable leaders, only average players for the majority. I’ve been following football since I was a kid, long before I thought about becoming a player, and I’ve never seen a situation as bad as this. Lack of love for the shirt, lack of grit and the most important of all: football,” Ronaldinho posted on Instagram</p>

<p>“I’ll repeat, our performance has been one of the worst things I’ve ever seen. Such a shame. I therefore declare my resignation. I will not watch any CONMEBOL Copa America game, nor celebrate any victory,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/former-arsenal-and-everton-striker-kevin-campbell-passes-breathes-last-at-54-732055">Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54</a></p>

<p>Brazil have not won an international tournament since the 2019 Copa America but their biggest downfall has been in the FIFA World Cup where they will at least go 24 years without the title, even if they succeed in the USA, Mexico and Canada in 2026. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On individual terms, no Brazil player has won the Ballon d’Or since 2007 when Kaka won the prestigious honour. However, that drought could come to an end in 2024 with Vinicius Jr firmly considered by many as the frontrunner to win the honour.</p>

<p>Despite being on the receiving end of Ronaldinho’s criticism, Brazil will walk into the Copa America 2024 as one of the hot favourites to win the title. The team will have some major absentees highlighted by Neymar jr who was unable to recover from an injury suffered last October. Richarlison is also nursing an injury while Gabriel Jesus has been dropped for his poor run of form.</p>


Legendary Brazil player Ronaldinho slammed his former side on Saturday (June 15) as he posted an emotional message on his Instagram account. Ronaldinho, who won the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil was critical of the players, claiming they don’t fight for the country’s colours and lack love for the nation while representing.

Legendary Brazil player Ronaldinho slammed his former side on Saturday (June 15) as he posted an emotional message on his Instagram account. Ronaldinho, who won the 2002 FIFA World Cup with Brazil was critical of the players, claiming they don’t fight for the country’s colours and lack love for the nation while representing. Interestingly, Brazil’s current crop of players consists of Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo who helped Real Madrid win the Champions League title. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ronaldo de Assis Moreira (@ronaldinho) × Ronaldinho blasts national side “This is a sad moment for those who love Brazilian soccer. It’s getting hard to find the spirit to watch the games. This is perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years, it has no respectable leaders, only average players for the majority. I’ve been following football since I was a kid, long before I thought about becoming a player, and I’ve never seen a situation as bad as this. Lack of love for the shirt, lack of grit and the most important of all: football,” Ronaldinho posted on Instagram “I’ll repeat, our performance has been one of the worst things I’ve ever seen. Such a shame. I therefore declare my resignation. I will not watch any CONMEBOL Copa America game, nor celebrate any victory,” he added. ALSO READ | Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54 Brazil have not won an international tournament since the 2019 Copa America but their biggest downfall has been in the FIFA World Cup where they will at least go 24 years without the title, even if they succeed in the USA, Mexico and Canada in 2026. On individual terms, no Brazil player has won the Ballon d’Or since 2007 when Kaka won the prestigious honour. However, that drought could come to an end in 2024 with Vinicius Jr firmly considered by many as the frontrunner to win the honour. Despite being on the receiving end of Ronaldinho’s criticism, Brazil will walk into the Copa America 2024 as one of the hot favourites to win the title. The team will have some major absentees highlighted by Neymar jr who was unable to recover from an injury suffered last October. Richarlison is also nursing an injury while Gabriel Jesus has been dropped for his poor run of form.

Copa America 2024: Ronaldinho blasts Brazil's current football team, says 'I will not watch nor celebrate'

<p>Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina wrapped up their preparations for the Copa America with a 4-1 friendly victory over Guatemala in Maryland on Friday.</p>

<p>Messi grabbed an early equaliser and then dinked in Argentina's fourth as the world champions came from behind in what was their final game before they launch the defence of their Copa America crown against Canada in Atlanta next Thursday.</p>

<p>Guatemala took a shock lead after only four minutes at Commanders Field in Landover when a free-kick from Oscar Santis from wide on the left sowed confusion in the Argentina defence.</p>

<p>Santis's cross bobbled across the six-yard box and ended with Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez scooping an attempted clearance into his net for an own goal.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hosts-germany-crush-10-man-scotland-in-euro-2024-opener-731913">Hosts Germany crush 10-man Scotland in Euro 2024 opener</a></strong></p>

<p>But Argentina did not have to wait long to get back on level terms and equalised in the 12th minute after a disastrous blunder by Guatemala goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen.</p>

<p>Under no real pressure, Hagen screwed an attempted clearance from a back pass straight to an unmarked Messi in the middle of the penalty area.</p>

<p>The Argentina captain duly took full advantage of his gift-wrapped opportunity, taking a touch and coolly tucking away his 107th international goal.</p>

<p>Thereafter it was a question of when not if Argentina would add their second, with Guatemala sitting deep and inviting pressure.</p>

<p>Argentina eventually took the lead from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Guatemala defender Nicolas Samayoa chopped down Valentin Carboni after the 19-year-old forward darted to the byline.</p>

<p>Messi elected to pass up the opportunity of the spot-kick, and instead it was Lautaro Martinez who stepped up to fire home the penalty and make it 2-1.</p>

<p>Argentina almost extended their lead on the stroke of half-time when Messi crashed a low rasping free-kick from the edge of the area against the inside of the post.</p>

<p>Lautaro Martinez's overhead kick from the rebound also hit the woodwork, and although Lisandro Martinez bundled the loose ball into the net, the Manchester United defender was ruled offside.</p>

<p>The Argentines made it 3-1 on 66 minutes with a fine team goal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">LIONEL MESSI ASSIST, WHAT A GENIUS PASS BY THE GOAT 🐐 <a href="https://t.co/4ZmJ0x3HT9">pic.twitter.com/4ZmJ0x3HT9</a></p>
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<p>Messi found Enzo Fernandez in space on the edge of the area, and the Chelsea midfielder then threaded a pass back to Messi inside the penalty area.</p>

<p>The Inter Miami star's first touch teed up Lautaro Martinez for a simple close-range finish.</p>

<p>Messi then completed his double with the goal of the game on 77 minutes, latching onto a sublime through ball from fellow veteran Angel Di Maria and lifting a deft finish over Hagen for 4-1.</p>


Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina wrapped up their preparations for the Copa America with a 4-1 friendly victory over Guatemala in Maryland on Friday. Messi grabbed an early equaliser and then dinked in Argentina's fourth as the world champions came from behind in what was their final game before they launch the defence of their Copa America crown against Canada in Atlanta next Thursday.

Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina wrapped up their preparations for the Copa America with a 4-1 friendly victory over Guatemala in Maryland on Friday. Messi grabbed an early equaliser and then dinked in Argentina's fourth as the world champions came from behind in what was their final game before they launch the defence of their Copa America crown against Canada in Atlanta next Thursday. Guatemala took a shock lead after only four minutes at Commanders Field in Landover when a free-kick from Oscar Santis from wide on the left sowed confusion in the Argentina defence. Santis's cross bobbled across the six-yard box and ended with Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez scooping an attempted clearance into his net for an own goal. ALSO READ: Hosts Germany crush 10-man Scotland in Euro 2024 opener But Argentina did not have to wait long to get back on level terms and equalised in the 12th minute after a disastrous blunder by Guatemala goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen. Under no real pressure, Hagen screwed an attempted clearance from a back pass straight to an unmarked Messi in the middle of the penalty area. The Argentina captain duly took full advantage of his gift-wrapped opportunity, taking a touch and coolly tucking away his 107th international goal. Thereafter it was a question of when not if Argentina would add their second, with Guatemala sitting deep and inviting pressure. Argentina eventually took the lead from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Guatemala defender Nicolas Samayoa chopped down Valentin Carboni after the 19-year-old forward darted to the byline. Messi elected to pass up the opportunity of the spot-kick, and instead it was Lautaro Martinez who stepped up to fire home the penalty and make it 2-1. Argentina almost extended their lead on the stroke of half-time when Messi crashed a low rasping free-kick from the edge of the area against the inside of the post. Lautaro Martinez's overhead kick from the rebound also hit the woodwork, and although Lisandro Martinez bundled the loose ball into the net, the Manchester United defender was ruled offside. The Argentines made it 3-1 on 66 minutes with a fine team goal. LIONEL MESSI ASSIST, WHAT A GENIUS PASS BY THE GOAT 🐐 pic.twitter.com/4ZmJ0x3HT9 — L/M Football (@lmfootbalI) June 15, 2024 × Messi found Enzo Fernandez in space on the edge of the area, and the Chelsea midfielder then threaded a pass back to Messi inside the penalty area. The Inter Miami star's first touch teed up Lautaro Martinez for a simple close-range finish. Messi then completed his double with the goal of the game on 77 minutes, latching onto a sublime through ball from fellow veteran Angel Di Maria and lifting a deft finish over Hagen for 4-1.

Lionel Messi hits brace in Argentina’s 4-1 win over Guatemala in Copa America friendly

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens. These are not your typical digital assets; they are tokens issued by national teams or individual clubs that promise fans a tradeable means to interact with their teams.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Rising market value of Chiliz cryptocurrency<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Token activity concerning participating national teams has surged ahead of the Euro 2024 European football championship, which begins on Friday, and the Copa América in North and South America, which starts a week later. The market value of the Chiliz cryptocurrency, the native coin of the Socios blockchain that hosts the most important fan tokens, has risen to nearly $1.07 billion from $687 million at the beginning of the year. This rise is approaching levels last seen before the 2022 World Cup, according to CoinGecko.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Increasing trading volumes<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Trading volumes for fan tokens have also increased in recent months, reaching more than $170 million on May 24, up from $25 million to $57 million for the whole of January, according to Kaiko data. The total market value of listed fan tokens is approximately $413 million, according to CoinGecko data. This summer of sports could be a litmus test for the still-developing industry of fan tokens, which often provide benefits such as lottery entries, early ticket access, product discounts, or the ability to vote on small choices such as match tunes.<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Supporters and critics weigh in<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">Supporters hail the tokens as a rare example of real-world crypto utility, while detractors point out contradictions between the stated goal of team participation and the speculative—and risky—nature of tradable assets. A Chiliz spokeswoman stated that the company's marketing made it clear that "fan tokens are fan-engagement tools and should be used as such."<o:p></o:p></p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal"><b>Future of fan tokens<o:p></o:p></b></h2>

<p class="MsoNormal">The price of Portugal's fan token has risen by around 2% in the last 30 days to $2.94, while Argentina's token temporarily reached its highest level since 2022 at $2.46—though both are still trading below their peaks set around the 2022 World Cup. "There has been a significant increase in trading volumes, but we expect it to be short-lived," said Jag Kooner, head of derivatives at Bitfinex, predicting a dip in trade after the World Cup.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The fan token market is headed for an interesting test this summer, as major football tournaments could either boost or promote the sector's speculative nature.<o:p></o:p></p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><i>(With inputs from Agencies)</i><o:p></o:p></p>


Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens.

Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens. These are not your typical digital assets; they are tokens issued by national teams or individual clubs that promise fans a tradeable means to interact with their teams. Rising market value of Chiliz cryptocurrency Token activity concerning participating national teams has surged ahead of the Euro 2024 European football championship, which begins on Friday, and the Copa América in North and South America, which starts a week later. The market value of the Chiliz cryptocurrency, the native coin of the Socios blockchain that hosts the most important fan tokens, has risen to nearly $1.07 billion from $687 million at the beginning of the year. This rise is approaching levels last seen before the 2022 World Cup, according to CoinGecko. Increasing trading volumes Trading volumes for fan tokens have also increased in recent months, reaching more than $170 million on May 24, up from $25 million to $57 million for the whole of January, according to Kaiko data. The total market value of listed fan tokens is approximately $413 million, according to CoinGecko data. This summer of sports could be a litmus test for the still-developing industry of fan tokens, which often provide benefits such as lottery entries, early ticket access, product discounts, or the ability to vote on small choices such as match tunes. Supporters and critics weigh in Supporters hail the tokens as a rare example of real-world crypto utility, while detractors point out contradictions between the stated goal of team participation and the speculative—and risky—nature of tradable assets. A Chiliz spokeswoman stated that the company's marketing made it clear that "fan tokens are fan-engagement tools and should be used as such." Future of fan tokens The price of Portugal's fan token has risen by around 2% in the last 30 days to $2.94, while Argentina's token temporarily reached its highest level since 2022 at $2.46—though both are still trading below their peaks set around the 2022 World Cup. "There has been a significant increase in trading volumes, but we expect it to be short-lived," said Jag Kooner, head of derivatives at Bitfinex, predicting a dip in trade after the World Cup. The fan token market is headed for an interesting test this summer, as major football tournaments could either boost or promote the sector's speculative nature. (With inputs from Agencies)

Fan tokens surge ahead of Euro 2024 and Copa América

<p>Teenage striker Endrick headed home an injury-time winner as Brazil defeated Mexico 3-2 in a warm-up friendly ahead of this month's Copa America on Saturday.</p>

<p>The Brazilians looked to be cruising to victory after goals from Fulham's Andreas Pereira and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli fired the South American giants into a 2-0 lead at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas.</p>

<p>But Mexico staged an unlikely late fightback after Julian Quinones pulled a goal back in the 73rd minute.</p>

<p>Guillermo Martinez looked to have secured a draw for Mexico in the third minute of time added on, lashing in a rebound from his own header after a corner to make it 2-2.</p>

<p>Yet Mexico barely had time to regroup before Brazil took the lead again.</p>

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<p>Vinicius Jr lofted an inviting cross into the penalty area from wide on the left and his new Real Madrid team-mate Endrick timed his jump to perfection to glance in a header past Mexico goalkeeper Julio Gonzalez for 3-2.</p>

<p>The victory extended Brazil's unbeaten record under new coach Dorival Junior, who oversaw 1-0 win over England at Wembley in March followed by a 3-3 draw with Spain.</p>

<p>Brazil face the United States in a friendly in Orlando on Wednesday in what will be their final game before they open their Copa America campaign against Costa Rica on June 24.</p>


Teenage striker Endrick headed home an injury-time winner as Brazil defeated Mexico 3-2 in a warm-up friendly ahead of this month's Copa America on Saturday. The Brazilians looked to be cruising to victory after goals from Fulham's Andreas Pereira and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli fired the South American giants into a 2-0 lead at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas.

Teenage striker Endrick headed home an injury-time winner as Brazil defeated Mexico 3-2 in a warm-up friendly ahead of this month's Copa America on Saturday. The Brazilians looked to be cruising to victory after goals from Fulham's Andreas Pereira and Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli fired the South American giants into a 2-0 lead at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas. But Mexico staged an unlikely late fightback after Julian Quinones pulled a goal back in the 73rd minute. Guillermo Martinez looked to have secured a draw for Mexico in the third minute of time added on, lashing in a rebound from his own header after a corner to make it 2-2. Yet Mexico barely had time to regroup before Brazil took the lead again. ALSO READ: 'There's work to be done': Declan Rice warns England after 1-0 defeat to Iceland in Euro 2024 build up Vinicius Jr lofted an inviting cross into the penalty area from wide on the left and his new Real Madrid team-mate Endrick timed his jump to perfection to glance in a header past Mexico goalkeeper Julio Gonzalez for 3-2. The victory extended Brazil's unbeaten record under new coach Dorival Junior, who oversaw 1-0 win over England at Wembley in March followed by a 3-3 draw with Spain. Brazil face the United States in a friendly in Orlando on Wednesday in what will be their final game before they open their Copa America campaign against Costa Rica on June 24.

Endrick’s injury-time goal helps Brazil beat Mexico in Copa America friendly

<p>Brazil’s record goal-scorer Neymar has been officially ruled out of the 2024 Copa America after the doctors confirmed of his absence on Wednesday (Dec 20) statement. Neymar, who was injured during the international break in October, underwent knee surgery which will see the Al-Hilal star miss at least 10 months of action. This will see the Brazil star miss the continental showpiece of South America which will be held in the USA (special edition). The injury also forced Neymar to miss important FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Doctors confirm Neymar’s absence</strong></h2>

<p>"It's too early. There's no point in skipping steps to recover sooner and taking unnecessary risks. Our expectation is that he will be prepared to return at the start of the 2024 season in Europe, which is August,” Rodrigo Lasmar, Brazil football team doctor told Brazil's Rede 98.</p>

<p>"We need to be patient. Talking about a return before nine months is premature, this is a global concept for knee ligament surgeries recovery. It is very important to respect the biological time, the time the body takes to reconstruct that ligament."</p>

<p>"If we follow those steps and after a long recovery, the expectation is that he can perform again at a high level,” Lasmar further added.</p>

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<p>Neymar’s injury will be a big blow for Brazil which will see players like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo take the scoring duties. The Real Madrid duo will be the first choice in the former Barcelona man’s absence who had an eventful 2023. Neymar left Paris Saint-Germain in June, days after Lionel Messi left the club for Inter Miami.</p>

<p>He was expected to play a big role in Al-Hilal’s Champions League campaign, however, Neymar suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee during his country's World Cup qualifying loss to Uruguay on Oct. 17, before undergoing surgery two weeks later.</p>

<p>Neymar is currently the leading goal scorer for the national team and has 79 goals, having recently surpassed the tally of 77 goals from great Pele.</p>


Brazil’s record goal-scorer Neymar has been officially ruled out of the 2024 Copa America after the doctors confirmed of his absence on Wednesday (Dec 20) statement.

Brazil’s record goal-scorer Neymar has been officially ruled out of the 2024 Copa America after the doctors confirmed of his absence on Wednesday (Dec 20) statement. Neymar, who was injured during the international break in October, underwent knee surgery which will see the Al-Hilal star miss at least 10 months of action. This will see the Brazil star miss the continental showpiece of South America which will be held in the USA (special edition). The injury also forced Neymar to miss important FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2024. Doctors confirm Neymar’s absence "It's too early. There's no point in skipping steps to recover sooner and taking unnecessary risks. Our expectation is that he will be prepared to return at the start of the 2024 season in Europe, which is August,” Rodrigo Lasmar, Brazil football team doctor told Brazil's Rede 98. "We need to be patient. Talking about a return before nine months is premature, this is a global concept for knee ligament surgeries recovery. It is very important to respect the biological time, the time the body takes to reconstruct that ligament." "If we follow those steps and after a long recovery, the expectation is that he can perform again at a high level,” Lasmar further added. ALSO READ | AUS vs PAK: Blow to Pakistan as seamer Khurram Shahzad doubtful for Melbourne Test Neymar’s injury will be a big blow for Brazil which will see players like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo take the scoring duties. The Real Madrid duo will be the first choice in the former Barcelona man’s absence who had an eventful 2023. Neymar left Paris Saint-Germain in June, days after Lionel Messi left the club for Inter Miami. He was expected to play a big role in Al-Hilal’s Champions League campaign, however, Neymar suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus in his left knee during his country's World Cup qualifying loss to Uruguay on Oct. 17, before undergoing surgery two weeks later. Neymar is currently the leading goal scorer for the national team and has 79 goals, having recently surpassed the tally of 77 goals from great Pele.

Official: Brazil star Neymar ruled out of Copa America 2024 in US due to serious knee injury

<p>Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament. However, his main focus will be to first defend the Copa America title in the USA which Argentina won in 2021 under Messi’s captaincy.</p>

<h2><strong>Messi leaves door open for 2026 World Cup</strong></h2>

<p>"I'm not thinking about the World Cup and I'm not saying 100 per cent that I won't be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I won't be there. Then we'll see," said Messi in an interview with Argentina's Star+.</p>

<p>"Maybe we'll do well at the Copa America and everything will work out for us to continue. Maybe not. Realistically it's difficult," he said of the chance of a sixth consecutive appearance in the World Cup.</p>

<p>"The first to know when I can be there and when I can't. I'm also aware that I've gone to a lesser league. But it's all about the personal side of things and the way you deal with it and how you compete,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or added.</p>

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<h2><strong>Messi’s remarkable year</strong></h2>

<p>Messi has had a remarkable last three years despite being off colour&nbsp;at the club level with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The legendary player secured Argentina’s first Copa America title in 28 years when he led his side to win in 2021, he would then help his side end a drought of 36 years without a World Cup with a win over France in the final in Qatar.</p>

<p>2023 saw him add another feather to his impressive hat with his eighth Ballon d’Or title as he saw off competition from Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. At the club level, he left PSG after two years having won the French Ligue 1, although there was no success in the Champions League for the side as they were eliminated in the Round of 16.</p>


Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament.

Twelve months on from the historic FIFA World Cup achievement, Argentina skipper Lionel Messi has opened up on the challenge of playing in the 2026 showpiece. Messi, who led Argentina to their third FIFA World Cup in 2022 with a dramatic win against then-defending champions France in the final, now intends to keep going until the 2026 tournament. However, his main focus will be to first defend the Copa America title in the USA which Argentina won in 2021 under Messi’s captaincy. Messi leaves door open for 2026 World Cup "I'm not thinking about the World Cup and I'm not saying 100 per cent that I won't be there because anything can happen. Because of my age, the most normal thing is that I won't be there. Then we'll see," said Messi in an interview with Argentina's Star+. "Maybe we'll do well at the Copa America and everything will work out for us to continue. Maybe not. Realistically it's difficult," he said of the chance of a sixth consecutive appearance in the World Cup. "The first to know when I can be there and when I can't. I'm also aware that I've gone to a lesser league. But it's all about the personal side of things and the way you deal with it and how you compete,” the eight-time Ballon d’Or added. ALSO READ | 'It's insane': Ramiz Raja slams PCB for 'tainted' Salman Butt's appointment Messi’s remarkable year Messi has had a remarkable last three years despite being off colour at the club level with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The legendary player secured Argentina’s first Copa America title in 28 years when he led his side to win in 2021, he would then help his side end a drought of 36 years without a World Cup with a win over France in the final in Qatar. 2023 saw him add another feather to his impressive hat with his eighth Ballon d’Or title as he saw off competition from Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. At the club level, he left PSG after two years having won the French Ligue 1, although there was no success in the Champions League for the side as they were eliminated in the Round of 16.

Lionel Messi leaves door open for 2026 FIFA World Cup; intends to defend Copa America title in 2024

<p>Argentina World Cup winner and former Real Madrid star Angel di Maria has confirmed his retirement plans.</p>

<p>He will step away from the national setup after the 2024 Copa America in the USA.</p>

<p>Di Maria has won all the distinguished honours in the game and helped Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup where he scored in the final while also earning a penalty in their win over France in Qatar.</p>

<p>He was also part of the 2021 Copa America-winning Argentina side where he scored in the final for their first win in 28 years.</p>

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<h2><strong>Di Maria to call time</strong></h2>

<p>"The Copa America will be the last time I wear the Argentine shirt, with all the pain of the soul and feeling a lump in my throat I say goodbye to the most beautiful thing that happened to me in my career, dress it, sweat it and FEEL it with all my pride," Di Maria wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p>A legend of the modern game, the 35-year-old has been on the books of some of the best clubs in the world.</p>

<p>He currently plays for SL Benfica in the Portugal Primera Division in his second spell with the club.</p>

<p>With Argentina, he has won multiple accolades with the 2022 FIFA World Cup being his greatest achievement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-breaking-300-million-fans-watch-india-vs-australia-odi-world-cup-final-on-tv-posts-jay-shah-662007">RECORD-BREAKING 300 million fans watched India vs Australia ODI World Cup final on TV, says Jay Shah</a></p>

<h2><strong>Success with stars</strong></h2>

<p>In 2008 with Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero as his teammates, he won the Beijing Olympics gold medal, having also won the 2007 U-20 World Cup.</p>

<p>The year 2021 turned out to be a spectacular one where he helped the national side win their first Copa America since 1993 when they beat Brazil in the final with Di Maria on the scoring sheet.</p>

<p>Later that year, he also helped Argentina win the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Championship with a win over European champions Italy, where he again scored in the final.</p>

<p>So far, he has 136 national team caps with 29 goals for the famous Sky Blues of Argentina.</p>

<p>At the club level, Di Maria has been on the books of some great clubs including Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus.</p>

<p>In the 2014 Champions League final, he helped Real Madrid beat local rivals Atletico Madrid to clinch their 10th European Cup title and was awarded Player of the Match for his performance.</p>

<p>The match was also his final official match for the club before moving to Manchester United, where he had soar time before moving to PSG in 2015.</p>


Argentina World Cup winner and former Real Madrid star Angel di Maria has confirmed his retirement plans. He will step away from the national setup after the 2024 Copa America in the USA.

Argentina World Cup winner and former Real Madrid star Angel di Maria has confirmed his retirement plans. He will step away from the national setup after the 2024 Copa America in the USA. Di Maria has won all the distinguished honours in the game and helped Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup where he scored in the final while also earning a penalty in their win over France in Qatar. He was also part of the 2021 Copa America-winning Argentina side where he scored in the final for their first win in 28 years. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ángel Di María (@angeldimariajm) Di Maria to call time "The Copa America will be the last time I wear the Argentine shirt, with all the pain of the soul and feeling a lump in my throat I say goodbye to the most beautiful thing that happened to me in my career, dress it, sweat it and FEEL it with all my pride," Di Maria wrote on Instagram. A legend of the modern game, the 35-year-old has been on the books of some of the best clubs in the world. He currently plays for SL Benfica in the Portugal Primera Division in his second spell with the club. With Argentina, he has won multiple accolades with the 2022 FIFA World Cup being his greatest achievement. ALSO READ | RECORD-BREAKING 300 million fans watched India vs Australia ODI World Cup final on TV, says Jay Shah Success with stars In 2008 with Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero as his teammates, he won the Beijing Olympics gold medal, having also won the 2007 U-20 World Cup. The year 2021 turned out to be a spectacular one where he helped the national side win their first Copa America since 1993 when they beat Brazil in the final with Di Maria on the scoring sheet. Later that year, he also helped Argentina win the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Championship with a win over European champions Italy, where he again scored in the final. So far, he has 136 national team caps with 29 goals for the famous Sky Blues of Argentina. At the club level, Di Maria has been on the books of some great clubs including Real Madrid, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus. In the 2014 Champions League final, he helped Real Madrid beat local rivals Atletico Madrid to clinch their 10th European Cup title and was awarded Player of the Match for his performance. The match was also his final official match for the club before moving to Manchester United, where he had soar time before moving to PSG in 2015.

Argentina's World Cup-winning star Angel di Maria to call time on illustrious career after 2024 Copa America

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