FIFA ranking: 2 (till June 7)

Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times. After losing at home in the final match in 1950 they won back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1962 and then made it three in Mexico in 1970 with what many consider to be the greatest team of all time.&nbsp;

After a 24-year drought that included heart-breaking eliminations in 1982 and 1986 they won again in 1994 with Romario and Bebeto starring. A rejuvenated Ronaldo, back from a series of knee injuries, helped them win the title in Japan in 2002 but they have disappointed since, not least in losing 7-1 to Germany in the semi-final at home four years ago.

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Coach: Tite: Like his three predecessors as manager, Tite is from the rugged southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Coaches there are known for their disdain of frippery and the 56-year-old (real name Adenor Leonardo Bachi) is no exception. He first rose to fame at Caixas and Gremio but it was his second spell at Corinthians that really cemented his reputation as a top-class coach when he took the underperforming Sao Paulo side to the league title in 2011 and the Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup the following year. Always dignified but firm and precise, he is popular with the media, a valuable asset in Brazil.

<hr />
Key players:

Neymar: So much of Brazil's hopes rest on Neymar's slim shoulders. The greatest player of his generation is capable of winning any game with a moment of brilliance but he will be returning from three months out with a foot injury and it remains to be seen whether the rest is positive or negative. He coasted through his debut season at Paris St-Germain where he was rarely tested. How influential he will be for Brazil could depend on how he copes with the huge pressure he will face.

Philippe Coutinho: This has been a rollercoaster season for Coutinho, who started at Liverpool and ended up at Barcelona. The 25-year-old has nevertheless become a regular in Tite's side, in either a wide role or as a deeper lying central midfielder, and his long-range shooting is a powerful weapon.

However, he can sometimes drift out of the action and his challenge is to take more games by the scruff of the neck and lessen the creative burden on Neymar.

Paulinho: With a superb defence and a scintillating attack, Brazil's midfield is often overlooked. Paulinho is a key cog in Brazil's engine room and a trusted lieutenant of coach Tite, who oversaw his rise at Corinthians. When he is on form Paulinho is an old-style box-to-box midfielder, but the Barcelona player is notorious for blowing hot and cold. One of the key questions for Brazil is which Paulinho will turn up -- the rampaging bull who helped them to a stunning Confederations Cup win in 2013 or the timid player who disappeared a year later.

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Form guide:

Brazil's form going to Russia could hardly be bettered. Since Tite took over as coach in mid-2016 they have lost once in 19 games, in a friendly against Argentina in Australia. The key to their form is at the back. They have conceded just five goals in those 19 games.

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How they qualified:

Brazil were the first team to qualify for the tournament as they walked away with South America's famously competitive 10-team group. The campaign, though, was not without its hiccups. Brazil were languishing in sixth place, outside the qualification spots, after six matches but coach Dunga's sacking and Tite's arrival turned things around. Brazil won 10 of their next 12 games to top the section 10 points ahead of Uruguay.

<hr />
Prospects:

This tournament is an unusual one for Brazil, who will arrive as joint favourites and as a side that need to prove themselves all over again after their disastrous 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 semi-finals. They should sail through Group E against Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia but, with little experience playing competitively against top European sides, a question mark still exists. One mouth-watering prospect could come as early as the last 16. If Brazil or Germany qualify in second place from their groups, the two heavyweights will slug it out much earlier than they would like.

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Twenty three-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Roma/ITA), Ederson (Manchester City/ENG), Cassio (Corinthians)

Defenders: Danilo (Manchester City/ENG), Fagner (Corinthians), Marcelo (Real Madrid/ESP), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Miranda (Inter Milan/ITA), Marquinhos (Paris SG/FRA), Thiago Silva (Paris SG/FRA), Geromel (Gremio)&nbsp;

Midfielders: Casemiro (Real Madrid/ESP), Fernandinho (Manchester City/ENG), Paulinho (Barcelona/ESP), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan/CHN), Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona/ESP), Willian (Chelsea/ENG)&nbsp;

Forwards: Neymar (Paris SG/FRA), Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City/ENG), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool/ENG), Douglas Costa (Juventus/ITA), Taison (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR)

<hr />
Brazil's fixture:

June 17

11:30 PM | Brazil vs Switzerland | Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don

June 22

05:30 PM | Brazil vs Costa Rica | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

June 27

11:30 PM | Serbia vs Brazil | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_1.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_1.jpg" width="770" />

Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times

FIFA ranking: 2 (till June 7) Brazil is the only country to appear in every World Cup and the only nation to win the trophy five times. After losing at home in the final match in 1950 they won back-to-back titles in 1958 and 1962 and then made it three in Mexico in 1970 with what many consider to be the greatest team of all time. After a 24-year drought that included heart-breaking eliminations in 1982 and 1986 they won again in 1994 with Romario and Bebeto starring. A rejuvenated Ronaldo, back from a series of knee injuries, helped them win the title in Japan in 2002 but they have disappointed since, not least in losing 7-1 to Germany in the semi-final at home four years ago. Coach: Tite: Like his three predecessors as manager, Tite is from the rugged southern state of Rio Grande do Sul. Coaches there are known for their disdain of frippery and the 56-year-old (real name Adenor Leonardo Bachi) is no exception. He first rose to fame at Caixas and Gremio but it was his second spell at Corinthians that really cemented his reputation as a top-class coach when he took the underperforming Sao Paulo side to the league title in 2011 and the Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup the following year. Always dignified but firm and precise, he is popular with the media, a valuable asset in Brazil. Key players: Neymar: So much of Brazil's hopes rest on Neymar's slim shoulders. The greatest player of his generation is capable of winning any game with a moment of brilliance but he will be returning from three months out with a foot injury and it remains to be seen whether the rest is positive or negative. He coasted through his debut season at Paris St-Germain where he was rarely tested. How influential he will be for Brazil could depend on how he copes with the huge pressure he will face. Philippe Coutinho: This has been a rollercoaster season for Coutinho, who started at Liverpool and ended up at Barcelona. The 25-year-old has nevertheless become a regular in Tite's side, in either a wide role or as a deeper lying central midfielder, and his long-range shooting is a powerful weapon. However, he can sometimes drift out of the action and his challenge is to take more games by the scruff of the neck and lessen the creative burden on Neymar. Paulinho: With a superb defence and a scintillating attack, Brazil's midfield is often overlooked. Paulinho is a key cog in Brazil's engine room and a trusted lieutenant of coach Tite, who oversaw his rise at Corinthians. When he is on form Paulinho is an old-style box-to-box midfielder, but the Barcelona player is notorious for blowing hot and cold. One of the key questions for Brazil is which Paulinho will turn up -- the rampaging bull who helped them to a stunning Confederations Cup win in 2013 or the timid player who disappeared a year later. Form guide: Brazil's form going to Russia could hardly be bettered. Since Tite took over as coach in mid-2016 they have lost once in 19 games, in a friendly against Argentina in Australia. The key to their form is at the back. They have conceded just five goals in those 19 games. How they qualified: Brazil were the first team to qualify for the tournament as they walked away with South America's famously competitive 10-team group. The campaign, though, was not without its hiccups. Brazil were languishing in sixth place, outside the qualification spots, after six matches but coach Dunga's sacking and Tite's arrival turned things around. Brazil won 10 of their next 12 games to top the section 10 points ahead of Uruguay. Prospects: This tournament is an unusual one for Brazil, who will arrive as joint favourites and as a side that need to prove themselves all over again after their disastrous 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 semi-finals. They should sail through Group E against Switzerland, Costa Rica and Serbia but, with little experience playing competitively against top European sides, a question mark still exists. One mouth-watering prospect could come as early as the last 16. If Brazil or Germany qualify in second place from their groups, the two heavyweights will slug it out much earlier than they would like. Twenty three-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Alisson (Roma/ITA), Ederson (Manchester City/ENG), Cassio (Corinthians) Defenders: Danilo (Manchester City/ENG), Fagner (Corinthians), Marcelo (Real Madrid/ESP), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Miranda (Inter Milan/ITA), Marquinhos (Paris SG/FRA), Thiago Silva (Paris SG/FRA), Geromel (Gremio) Midfielders: Casemiro (Real Madrid/ESP), Fernandinho (Manchester City/ENG), Paulinho (Barcelona/ESP), Renato Augusto (Beijing Guoan/CHN), Fred (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona/ESP), Willian (Chelsea/ENG) Forwards: Neymar (Paris SG/FRA), Gabriel Jesus (Manchester City/ENG), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool/ENG), Douglas Costa (Juventus/ITA), Taison (Shakhtar Donetsk/UKR) Brazil's fixture: June 17 11:30 PM | Brazil vs Switzerland | Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don June 22 05:30 PM | Brazil vs Costa Rica | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg June 27 11:30 PM | Serbia vs Brazil | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Brazil

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3).

The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style.

Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time.

Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille.

"I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr.

Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014.

He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August.

The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia.

Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia

Brazil star Neymar said he suffered a lot during a three-month injury lay-off after making a goalscoring comeback in his side's 2-0 win over Croatia at Anfield on Sunday (June 3). The PSG forward came on at Anfield as a second-half substitute and made a swift impression with a superbly taken opener in the 69th minute as the five-time World Cup winners warmed-up for this month's tournament in Russia in style. Liverpool's Roberto Firmino wrapped up the win in stoppage time. Neymar, the world's most expensive player, has been sidelined since February 25, when he fractured a metatarsal and sprained his ankle playing for the French champions in a Ligue 1 match against Marseille. "I have a lot of respect for Romario, Zico, Ronaldo, Pele because they are my idols. The statistics are just numbers. I'm happy to help the team, scoring goals for the national team. I don't want to be better than them, everyone has their own story, everybody knows how important they were for the national team, for now I'm just really happy for the goals," said Neymar Jr. Wearing the number 10 shirt, made famous by Pele, Neymar's popularity soared after he led Brazil to their first Olympic gold medal win in Rio in 2014. He became the world's most expensive footballer when he signed for PSG from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($264 million) last August. The Selecao play their final warm-up match against Austria in Vienna on June 10, before heading to Russia. Brazil are in World Cup Group E with Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica and kick off their campaign against the Swiss on June 17.

Watch: Don't want to be better than Zico, Pele, says Brazil's Neymar

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14&nbsp;and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3&nbsp;formation.&nbsp;

Coach: Joachim Low

Goalkeeper -

David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Defender -&nbsp;

Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the&nbsp;semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable.&nbsp;

Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team.

Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back.

Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad.

<img alt="De Gea.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="770" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/De%20Gea.jpg" width="430" />

Midfielders -&nbsp;

Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His&nbsp;campaign in&nbsp;the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success.

N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding&nbsp;in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign.

James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team.

Forwards -&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was&nbsp;remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup.

Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team.

Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

A collation of dream XI for the football World Cup which will kick off from June 14

The 21st edition of football World Cup is set to start from June 14 and the madness is already begun. With just 11 days remaining, we've collated the best XI from the tournament squads in a 4-3-3 formation. Coach: Joachim Low Goalkeeper - David De Gea: The Manchester United goalkeeper has been exceptionally well since the last September with some mind-blowing saves. This is the reason he is listed ahead of German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Defender - Joshua Kimmich: Joshua Walter Kimmich is a German professional footballer who plays as a right back for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. The 23-year-old ended the 2017/18 campaign with his third successive Bundesliga winner's medal. Being a defender, he also scored in the semi-finals (first Leg) of Champions League at a very crucial stage which is commendable. Mats Hummels: Mats Julian Hummels is a German professional footballer who plays as a central defender for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. Sergio Ramos: Sergio Ramos is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for and captains both Real Madrid and the Spain national team. Although, he is a central defender but can play as a right back. Marcelo Vieira da Silva Junior: Marcelo is a Brazilian professional footballer for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Brazil national team. He plays mainly at left-back but can also operate as a left winger. He has always played a vital role in Real's success and definitely a player to watch out for in Brazilian squad. Midfielders - Toni Kroos: Toni Kroos is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Spanish club Real Madrid and the German national team. His campaign in the previous season at Bayern Munich has been a roaring success. N'Golo Kante: N'Golo Kante is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for English club Chelsea and the France national team. His performance for Chelsea was outstanding in the previous season and he also won the club's Player of the Year prize for the 2017/18 campaign. James Rodriguez: J. Rodriguez is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for German club Bayern Munich on loan from Real Madrid, and captains the Colombia national team. Forwards - Cristiano Ronaldo: Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. His recent performance in the recently concluded Champions League was remarkable. He took his country towards victory in last Euro Cup. Harry Edward Kane: Harry Kane is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur and captains the English national team. Lionel Andres Messi: Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentine national team.

With 11 days to go, here is WION's Dream XI for the World Cup

There are&nbsp;13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:

Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.

Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.

Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.

Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.

Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;

Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.

John Terry: This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list.

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Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.

Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;

Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.

Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.

Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.

Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: This video depicting John Terry's horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation and reason as to why he's included on this list. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Copa America twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. He has won, including a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: 13 'unlucky' players in world football

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world:

Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career.

Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend.

Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute.

Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy.

Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player.&nbsp;

Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up.

John Terry:&nbsp;Watch the video to know why&nbsp;John Terry is included in this&nbsp;list.&nbsp;The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation.

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Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14.

Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.'&nbsp;

Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup.

Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not&nbsp;compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin&nbsp;has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career.

Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history.

Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

There are 13 days left for the football frenzy to begin as the football World Cup 2018 will kick off from June 14. It is difficult to not believe in the powerful force of black cats and broken mirrors and when it comes to football, the same omen apply as well. Here is a list of 13 unlucky or jinxed footballers in the football world: Ledley King: Ledley Brenton King is a former English footballer who spent his entire career at Tottenham Hotspur. He played 321 competitive matches for the Spurs before retiring in 2012. He was a great defender and reader of the game from the back but unfortunately, he was extremely injury-prone. A chronic knee injury has plagued his entire career. Theo Walcott: Theo James Walcott is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward for Premier League club Everton and the English national team. He was once tagged as the as having bags of potential and speed but recurrent injuries hampered his development from star player to a legend. Gareth Bale: Bale is a Welshman and currently plays for the Spanish giants Real Madrid. His excellence can be seen in the recently concluded Champions League where he scored twice in the finals against Liverpool to clinch the trophy for the third time in a row. He's arguably one of the best wingers, if not players, in the league at the moment but has been struggling with injuries and treated a substitute. Steven Gerrard: It is difficult to put Steven Gerrard in this category because as a player and captain of Liverpool, Gerrard has won everything: the FA Cup, UEFA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, UEFA Champions League, Carling Cup, FA Community Shield but missed out the most prestigious title of England which is the English Premier League trophy. Tomas Rosicky: Even Rosicky's name is not worth keeping in the list of jinxed players as he arrived in England with a massive reputation but failed to adopt the demand and pace of the English game. A series of injuries, including one year-long one, meant he was demoted from automatic starter to backup player. Neymar Jr: Star player of Brazil who has a horrific memory of World Cup 2014 when he fractured a vertebra in his spine in the quarter-finals and was ousted from the tournament. His absence in semi-finals was one of the reasons for Brazil's disastrous defeat against Germany in the semi-final. The poor luck prevailed as just four months before the World Cup 2018 when he got another major injury in the form of metatarsal fracture. It is expected that he will play for Brazil but let's see how he will cope up. John Terry: Watch the video to know why John Terry is included in this list. The horrid penalty miss in the UEFA Champions League final is enough explanation. × Manuel Neuer: He is a German professional footballer/goalkeeper who is the captain of both Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team. He received the award of Golden Gloves in the World Cup 2014 and is considered as one of the best goalkeepers in today's scenario but from the last September, he has not played any major game. This might affect his performance in the World Cup 2018 which will kick off from June 14. Mario Gotze: It is nothing less than a poor luck when the World Cup winner scorer has not been included in the provisional squad of Germany for FIFA 2018. Mario Gotze had the potential of a lot more but injuries and health issues reduced the shine and luster of 'once in a century talent.' Lionel Messi: Lionel Messi has entered the World Cup 2018 with the jinx not winning the finals of any major international competition. This has happened thrice in his career when he lost in the finals of Euro Cup twice and also the World Cup 2014. He said that he will retire if Argentina does not win the World Cup. Arjen Robben: Sometimes the greatness of a player is not compared with the trophies he has won but a lot of other things matter. Robin has won a UCL, a UEFA Super Cup, a La Liga, three Bundesligas, two Premier Leagues. Although, it is important to look through all the glittery trophies and see the number of chances he missed throughout his entire career. Andres Escobar: Andres Escobar Saldarriaga was a Colombian footballer who played as a defender. He was shot dead for scoring an own goal in a second-round match between the United States and Colombia in the world cup finals held in the United States in 1994 which makes him the most unlucky footballer in history. Michael Ballack: One of the greats of German football and a classic mid-fielder. Although, major titles have always been escaped from him which is nothing but a poor luck. He ran for Ballon d'Or three times but didn't win it once. In the end, one more thing to be told, Ballack wore jersey no. #13 all his career, which might explain why.

From Michael Ballack to Lionel Messi: List of 13 'unlucky' players in football world

With less than two weeks left for the 2018 FIFA World Cup to commence, the craziness for the game is at already at its peak.

However, the fever reached another level when two Russian astronauts demonstrated their football skills in zero-gravity at the International Space Station (ISS). A video of the same was also released where the pair takes it in turns to fire gravity-defying shots at each other in an orbital training session. &nbsp;

In the video, one of the astronauts can be seen sporting an official FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 T-shirt and yellow gloves.&nbsp;He is further seen setting up an artificial goal at the space station, topped with a Russian flag and with the smaller flags of various nations strung up in the background.&nbsp;

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Hosts Russia will kick-off the 2018 football World Cup against Saudi Arabia in Moscow, while defending champions Germany will start against Mexico.

The month-long tournament will commence from 14th June and the final will be played on July 15 at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

In the video, one of the astronauts can be seen sporting an official FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 T-shirt and yellow gloves.

With less than two weeks left for the 2018 FIFA World Cup to commence, the craziness for the game is at already at its peak. However, the fever reached another level when two Russian astronauts demonstrated their football skills in zero-gravity at the International Space Station (ISS). A video of the same was also released where the pair takes it in turns to fire gravity-defying shots at each other in an orbital training session. In the video, one of the astronauts can be seen sporting an official FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 T-shirt and yellow gloves. He is further seen setting up an artificial goal at the space station, topped with a Russian flag and with the smaller flags of various nations strung up in the background. × Hosts Russia will kick-off the 2018 football World Cup against Saudi Arabia in Moscow, while defending champions Germany will start against Mexico. The month-long tournament will commence from 14th June and the final will be played on July 15 at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

Watch: Ahead of World Cup, Russian astronauts show off football skills in space

England striker Danny Welbeck says he has emerged mentally stronger after a knee injury ruled him out of the 2016 European Championships and the 27-year-old is keen to make an impact in next month's World Cup in Russia.

Welbeck was sidelined for eight months after undergoing surgery for the knee problem but the Arsenal forward has since forced his way back into England manager Gareth Southgate's plans.

"Missing out on the last tournament with injury was frustrating for me," Welbeck told British media.

"If you get a big injury, it is not easy at all to deal with it. It's a lonely period when you're not out on the pitch helping your teammates and doing what you love doing.

"You can develop mentally when you're away from the pitch. You can take all that frustration, pain and hurt from not playing and try and use that as a way of helping you and reminding you of what you are missing out on."

Welbeck has 15 international goals in 37 matches, the most for any player in the squad bound for Russia and three more than first choice striker Harry Kane, and will look to add to his tally when England take on Nigeria in a friendly on Saturday.

"I haven't pointed that out to the manager, he knows all the ins and outs but that is something I want to build on," Welbeck added ahead of the match at Wembley. "I have had a lot of success on the international stage and I want that to continue."

England open their World Cup campaign with a Group G encounter against Tunisia in Volgograd on June 18, before taking on Panama in Nizhny Novgorod on June 24 and finally Belgium in Kaliningrad four days later.

Welbeck was sidelined for eight months after undergoing surgery for the knee problem but the Arsenal forward has since forced his way back into England manager Gareth Southgate's plans

England striker Danny Welbeck says he has emerged mentally stronger after a knee injury ruled him out of the 2016 European Championships and the 27-year-old is keen to make an impact in next month's World Cup in Russia. Welbeck was sidelined for eight months after undergoing surgery for the knee problem but the Arsenal forward has since forced his way back into England manager Gareth Southgate's plans. "Missing out on the last tournament with injury was frustrating for me," Welbeck told British media. "If you get a big injury, it is not easy at all to deal with it. It's a lonely period when you're not out on the pitch helping your teammates and doing what you love doing. "You can develop mentally when you're away from the pitch. You can take all that frustration, pain and hurt from not playing and try and use that as a way of helping you and reminding you of what you are missing out on." Welbeck has 15 international goals in 37 matches, the most for any player in the squad bound for Russia and three more than first choice striker Harry Kane, and will look to add to his tally when England take on Nigeria in a friendly on Saturday. "I haven't pointed that out to the manager, he knows all the ins and outs but that is something I want to build on," Welbeck added ahead of the match at Wembley. "I have had a lot of success on the international stage and I want that to continue." England open their World Cup campaign with a Group G encounter against Tunisia in Volgograd on June 18, before taking on Panama in Nizhny Novgorod on June 24 and finally Belgium in Kaliningrad four days later.

FIFA World Cup: Danny Welbeck ready to fire for England

Peru captain Paolo Guerrero was cleared to play at the World Cup after a Swiss court agreed on Thursday to temporarily lift his doping suspension while it considered his appeal against a 14-month ban.

"As a consequence, Paolo Guerrero will be able to play at the World Cup in Russia," said the Swiss Federal Tribunal in a statement.

Earlier, Guerrero had&nbspcompleted a six-month ban from FIFA after testing positive for a byproduct of cocaine consumption when CAS extended the suspension, ruling him out of the World Cup.

Guerrero denied having used cocaine.

Guerrero has said that benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, was found in his system because of an herbal infusion he drank that was contaminated with coca leaf, an ingredient in cocaine which is also widely used as a non-narcotic traditional remedy in South America.

Guerrero, 34, unsuccessfully sought amnesty from FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a visit to Switzerland this week.

Guerrero had completed a six-month ban from FIFA after testing positive for a byproduct of cocaine consumption

Peru captain Paolo Guerrero was cleared to play at the World Cup after a Swiss court agreed on Thursday to temporarily lift his doping suspension while it considered his appeal against a 14-month ban. "As a consequence, Paolo Guerrero will be able to play at the World Cup in Russia," said the Swiss Federal Tribunal in a statement. Earlier, Guerrero had&nbspcompleted a six-month ban from FIFA after testing positive for a byproduct of cocaine consumption when CAS extended the suspension, ruling him out of the World Cup. Guerrero denied having used cocaine. Guerrero has said that benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, was found in his system because of an herbal infusion he drank that was contaminated with coca leaf, an ingredient in cocaine which is also widely used as a non-narcotic traditional remedy in South America. Guerrero, 34, unsuccessfully sought amnesty from FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a visit to Switzerland this week.

FIFA World Cup: Peru captain Paolo Guerrero free to play at World Cup after court ruling

Injured Mohamed Salah will&nbspmiss the opening match of Group A against Uruguay on June 15 as the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has announced after meeting Salah in Spain, where he is undergoing treatment, that the Liverpool striker won't be able to play for minimum&nbspthree weeks.

"The football federation reiterates that Salah will be at the World Cup, God willing, and will be out for no longer than three weeks," said Egyptian FA.

Egyptian Federation officials including the president Hani Abu Reda and the team doctor paid a morale-boosting visit to Salah in Spain where he is getting his treatment done.

The doctors said that Salah will at least need three weeks to recover completely from the shoulder injury that he received during the finals of UEFA Champions League match against Real Madrid. In the absence of Mo Salah, Liverpool lost to Real 3-1.

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تحديث | أفاد الدكتور محمد أبو العلا طبيب المنتخب أن الجهاز الطبي بنادي ليفربول قد ابلغوه بعد إجراء الآشعة على كتف صلاح وأفادت نتيجتها بأن اللاعب أصيب بجزع في أربطة مفصل الكتف وأضاف انه وفقا لهذا التشخيص عن تفاؤله بأن يلحق صلاح بالمنتخب الوطني في كأس العالم ????<a href="https://twitter.com/MoSalah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoSalah</a>
— Egypt National Football Team (@Pharaohs) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pharaohs/status/1000493162014629896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Salah arrived for rehabilitation in Valencia on Sunday, the day after he injured his shoulder after being wrestled to the ground by Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final Real Madrid won 3-1.

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The Egyptian FA have confirmed Mo Salah will be fit for the Egypt's final two group games at the World Cup. Great news for Mo! <a href="https://t.co/BzGE7JO7JY">pic.twitter.com/BzGE7JO7JY</a>
— LFC Fans Corner (@LFCFansCorner) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFCFansCorner/status/1001858111710351363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

Egyptian Federation officials including the president Hani Abu Reda and the team doctor paid a morale-boosting visit to Salah in Spain

Injured Mohamed Salah will&nbspmiss the opening match of Group A against Uruguay on June 15 as the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has announced after meeting Salah in Spain, where he is undergoing treatment, that the Liverpool striker won't be able to play for minimum&nbspthree weeks. "The football federation reiterates that Salah will be at the World Cup, God willing, and will be out for no longer than three weeks," said Egyptian FA. Egyptian Federation officials including the president Hani Abu Reda and the team doctor paid a morale-boosting visit to Salah in Spain where he is getting his treatment done. The doctors said that Salah will at least need three weeks to recover completely from the shoulder injury that he received during the finals of UEFA Champions League match against Real Madrid. In the absence of Mo Salah, Liverpool lost to Real 3-1. تحديث | أفاد الدكتور محمد أبو العلا طبيب المنتخب أن الجهاز الطبي بنادي ليفربول قد ابلغوه بعد إجراء الآشعة على كتف صلاح وأفادت نتيجتها بأن اللاعب أصيب بجزع في أربطة مفصل الكتف وأضاف انه وفقا لهذا التشخيص عن تفاؤله بأن يلحق صلاح بالمنتخب الوطني في كأس العالم ????@MoSalah — Egypt National Football Team (@Pharaohs) May 26, 2018 × Salah arrived for rehabilitation in Valencia on Sunday, the day after he injured his shoulder after being wrestled to the ground by Sergio Ramos in the Champions League final Real Madrid won 3-1. The Egyptian FA have confirmed Mo Salah will be fit for the Egypt's final two group games at the World Cup. Great news for Mo! pic.twitter.com/BzGE7JO7JY — LFC Fans Corner (@LFCFansCorner) May 30, 2018 ×

Mohamed Salah to miss opening Group A match against Uruguay due to injury

&nbspArgentina showed once again how reliant they are on Lionel Messi as the Barcelona forward scored a hat-trick in their 4-0 World Cup warm-up win over Haiti on Tuesday.

With Javier Mascherano making his 143rd appearance to put him one ahead of Javier Zanetti as Argentina's most capped player, Messi got the opener from the penalty spot after 17 minutes.

He doubled their lead 12 minutes into the second half with a simple tap-in after the goalkeeper could only parry a header, scored Argentina's third after 65 minutes, and then set up Sergio Aguero to make it four just two minutes later.

Argentina failed to add to their tally but should have been further ahead against Haiti, whose sole appearance at the World Cup finals came in 1974 and are ranked 108th in the world, 103 places below them in the world rankings.

"More than the result we were able to say goodbye to our fans and show that we are going to Russia with hope," Messi said.

"We're not going as favourites because we had a complicated time in the qualifiers, but we are training well and we will give it our all."

Aguero was fit again after a knee injury but began the game on the bench, with Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria starting up front alongside Messi.

However, both men failed to shine and instead it was Aguero and Boca Juniors' Christian Pavon who staked their claim for a World Cup place when they came on after an hour.

Argentina now fly to Barcelona to prepare for World Cup matches against Iceland on June 16, Croatia on June 21 and Nigeria on June 26.

Argentina now fly to Barcelona to prepare for World Cup matches against Iceland

&nbspArgentina showed once again how reliant they are on Lionel Messi as the Barcelona forward scored a hat-trick in their 4-0 World Cup warm-up win over Haiti on Tuesday. With Javier Mascherano making his 143rd appearance to put him one ahead of Javier Zanetti as Argentina's most capped player, Messi got the opener from the penalty spot after 17 minutes. He doubled their lead 12 minutes into the second half with a simple tap-in after the goalkeeper could only parry a header, scored Argentina's third after 65 minutes, and then set up Sergio Aguero to make it four just two minutes later. Argentina failed to add to their tally but should have been further ahead against Haiti, whose sole appearance at the World Cup finals came in 1974 and are ranked 108th in the world, 103 places below them in the world rankings. "More than the result we were able to say goodbye to our fans and show that we are going to Russia with hope," Messi said. "We're not going as favourites because we had a complicated time in the qualifiers, but we are training well and we will give it our all." Aguero was fit again after a knee injury but began the game on the bench, with Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria starting up front alongside Messi. However, both men failed to shine and instead it was Aguero and Boca Juniors' Christian Pavon who staked their claim for a World Cup place when they came on after an hour. Argentina now fly to Barcelona to prepare for World Cup matches against Iceland on June 16, Croatia on June 21 and Nigeria on June 26.

Football World Cup friendly: Messi's hat-trick sinks Haiti

Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah will travel to Spain on Tuesday for treatment on the injured shoulder that wrecked his Champions League final bid and threatens his World Cup participation.

Egypt's football federation (EFA) said Salah's entourage had chosen Spain for a rehabilitation programme that Egyptians will hope helps Salah return in time for next month's World Cup in Russia.

According to an EFA statement, Salah will be accompanied by Liverpool's medical staff "for the duration of the treatment period", having "started his rehabilitation on Sunday".

Salah, who hit a stunning 44 goals for Liverpool last season in all competitions, was forced out the Champions League final in tears on Saturday clutching his left shoulder after being wrestled to the ground by Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos.

It was feared the injury had ruled Salah out of the June 14-July 15 World Cup, but on Sunday the Reds' striker said he was "confident" he would be back in time.

"It was a very tough night, but I'm a fighter. Despite the odds, I'm confident that I'll be in Russia to make you all proud," Salah wrote on his official Twitter account on Sunday.

Egyptian media reported Salah wouldn't kick a ball in anger for three weeks.

Egyptian federation officials meanwhile are set to pay Salah -- described by the EFA as "the symbol of Egypt" -- a morale-boosting visit on Wednesday.

Egypt, who were drawn in Group A, open their World Cup campaign against Uruguay on June 15, before facing hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia.

The Pharaohs play a first warm-up match, against Colombia, in Bergamo, Italy on June 1.

It was feared that the injury had ruled Salah out of the June 14-July 15 World Cup

Liverpool and Egypt star Mohamed Salah will travel to Spain on Tuesday for treatment on the injured shoulder that wrecked his Champions League final bid and threatens his World Cup participation. Egypt's football federation (EFA) said Salah's entourage had chosen Spain for a rehabilitation programme that Egyptians will hope helps Salah return in time for next month's World Cup in Russia. According to an EFA statement, Salah will be accompanied by Liverpool's medical staff "for the duration of the treatment period", having "started his rehabilitation on Sunday". Salah, who hit a stunning 44 goals for Liverpool last season in all competitions, was forced out the Champions League final in tears on Saturday clutching his left shoulder after being wrestled to the ground by Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos. It was feared the injury had ruled Salah out of the June 14-July 15 World Cup, but on Sunday the Reds' striker said he was "confident" he would be back in time. "It was a very tough night, but I'm a fighter. Despite the odds, I'm confident that I'll be in Russia to make you all proud," Salah wrote on his official Twitter account on Sunday. Egyptian media reported Salah wouldn't kick a ball in anger for three weeks. Egyptian federation officials meanwhile are set to pay Salah -- described by the EFA as "the symbol of Egypt" -- a morale-boosting visit on Wednesday. Egypt, who were drawn in Group A, open their World Cup campaign against Uruguay on June 15, before facing hosts Russia and Saudi Arabia. The Pharaohs play a first warm-up match, against Colombia, in Bergamo, Italy on June 1.

Mohamed Salah to travel to Spain for treatment: Egypt football federation

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup.

"I have no intention of letting Hamas members who are detainees in our prisons enjoy the World Cup matches while we have Israeli hostages and soldiers in the Gaza Strip," Erdan said, quoted by the YNet news website.

The minister said he had asked the Israel Prison Service to "put pressure" on jailed members of Hamas.

Under current rules, prisoners have the right to watch television, but Erdan said he was checking to see if regulations could be changed in time for the World Cup, which runs from June 14 to July 15.&nbsp

Prisoners who "support terrorism cannot benefit from a sporting competition which unites populations," the minister said.&nbsp

The bodies of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war, Oren Shaul and Hadar Goldin, are believed to be held by Hamas.&nbsp

Around 6,500 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club.

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup

Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan said on Sunday he is seeking to ban Palestinian prisoners who are members of Hamas from watching the upcoming World Cup. "I have no intention of letting Hamas members who are detainees in our prisons enjoy the World Cup matches while we have Israeli hostages and soldiers in the Gaza Strip," Erdan said, quoted by the YNet news website. The minister said he had asked the Israel Prison Service to "put pressure" on jailed members of Hamas. Under current rules, prisoners have the right to watch television, but Erdan said he was checking to see if regulations could be changed in time for the World Cup, which runs from June 14 to July 15. Prisoners who "support terrorism cannot benefit from a sporting competition which unites populations," the minister said. The bodies of two Israeli soldiers killed in the 2014 Gaza war, Oren Shaul and Hadar Goldin, are believed to be held by Hamas. Around 6,500 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club.

Israel minister Gilad Erdan wants World Cup TV ban for Hamas inmates

Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson underwent knee surgery and is reportedly out of contention for England's World Cup squad.

As per media reports, the 24-year-old was yet to make his England debut but was called up by manager Gareth Southgate for friendlies in March against the Netherlands and Italy.

On Sunday, Swansea were relegated from the Premier League, leaving Mawson's club future in doubt with the former England under-21 international linked to several top clubs.

The reports also added that Southgate told Mawson before the operation that he was unlikely to be called up for the tournament starting in Russia next month.

It said the player had therefore decided to have surgery as soon as possible to be in the best shape for next season.

the 24-year-old was yet to make his England debut but was called up by manager Gareth Southgate for friendlies in March

Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson underwent knee surgery and is reportedly out of contention for England's World Cup squad. As per media reports, the 24-year-old was yet to make his England debut but was called up by manager Gareth Southgate for friendlies in March against the Netherlands and Italy. On Sunday, Swansea were relegated from the Premier League, leaving Mawson's club future in doubt with the former England under-21 international linked to several top clubs. The reports also added that Southgate told Mawson before the operation that he was unlikely to be called up for the tournament starting in Russia next month. It said the player had therefore decided to have surgery as soon as possible to be in the best shape for next season.

England defender Mawson ruled out of FIFA World Cup

A referee selected for&nbsp;this year's World Cup is being investigated by Saudi Arabian authorities, the nation`s football association has said.

Fahad Al-Mirdasi, one of 36 referees chosen by FIFA for Russia, was replaced by English official Mark Clattenburg for the King's Cup final between Al-Ittihad and Al-Faisaly on Sunday.

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation said on its Twitter account that Al-Mirdasi was under "administrative investigation" but did not specify the nature of the probe.

A source close to the Saudi Arabia Football Federation told Reuters a disciplinary hearing would be held on Monday, with Al-Mirdasi accused of asking one of the teams playing in the King's Cup final for money.

A decision is expected to be announced later on Monday.

Al-Mirdasi was selected for last year`s Confederations Cup in Russia, a warmup for the June 14-July 15 World Cup.

Fahad Al-Mirdasi is one of the 36 referees chosen by FIFA for Russia.

A referee selected for this year's World Cup is being investigated by Saudi Arabian authorities, the nation`s football association has said. Fahad Al-Mirdasi, one of 36 referees chosen by FIFA for Russia, was replaced by English official Mark Clattenburg for the King's Cup final between Al-Ittihad and Al-Faisaly on Sunday. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation said on its Twitter account that Al-Mirdasi was under "administrative investigation" but did not specify the nature of the probe. A source close to the Saudi Arabia Football Federation told Reuters a disciplinary hearing would be held on Monday, with Al-Mirdasi accused of asking one of the teams playing in the King's Cup final for money. A decision is expected to be announced later on Monday. Al-Mirdasi was selected for last year`s Confederations Cup in Russia, a warmup for the June 14-July 15 World Cup.

2018 FIFA World Cup referee under investigation by Saudi FA

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

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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&nbsp;

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

Iceland on Monday announced that its leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer.

This came as the government of Iceland decided to stand in solidarity with the United Kingdom and other western states and join in their coordinated response to the chemical attack in Salisbury in England earlier this month.

"All of Iceland's closest allies and partners have decided to take measures against Russia in the wake of the Salisbury attack, including the Nordic countries, most member states of NATO as well as several EU nations. Among the measures taken by Iceland is the temporary postponement of all high-level bilateral dialogue with Russian authorities. Consequently, Icelandic leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer," the foreign ministry said in a statement said.

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Icelandic leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Iceland.
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Earlier in the day, the ambassador of the Russian Federation to Iceland was summoned to the Icelandic Foreign Ministry and informed of the decision.

The statement further said, "So far, Russia's response has been severely lacking. Russia must provide credible explanations on how a nerve agent originally produced in Soviet laboratories came to be used to attack civilians in the United Kingdom. The Government of Iceland urges Russian authorities give clear answers to important questions pertaining to the investigation and to fully cooperate with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons."

Retired military intelligence officer Skripal, 66, and his daughter, Yulia, 33, were found slumped on a bench in Salisbury city centre on March 4. However, they remain in a critical but stable condition in hospital.

Iceland's decision came as 16 European Union countries on Monday gave a large number of Russian envoys notice to leave their territory.&nbsp;

The ambassador of the Russian Federation to Iceland was summoned to the Icelandic Foreign Ministry and informed of the decision

Iceland on Monday announced that its leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer. This came as the government of Iceland decided to stand in solidarity with the United Kingdom and other western states and join in their coordinated response to the chemical attack in Salisbury in England earlier this month. "All of Iceland's closest allies and partners have decided to take measures against Russia in the wake of the Salisbury attack, including the Nordic countries, most member states of NATO as well as several EU nations. Among the measures taken by Iceland is the temporary postponement of all high-level bilateral dialogue with Russian authorities. Consequently, Icelandic leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer," the foreign ministry said in a statement said. Icelandic leaders will not attend the FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer: Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Iceland. — ANI (@ANI) March 26, 2018 × Earlier in the day, the ambassador of the Russian Federation to Iceland was summoned to the Icelandic Foreign Ministry and informed of the decision. The statement further said, "So far, Russia's response has been severely lacking. Russia must provide credible explanations on how a nerve agent originally produced in Soviet laboratories came to be used to attack civilians in the United Kingdom. The Government of Iceland urges Russian authorities give clear answers to important questions pertaining to the investigation and to fully cooperate with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons." Retired military intelligence officer Skripal, 66, and his daughter, Yulia, 33, were found slumped on a bench in Salisbury city centre on March 4. However, they remain in a critical but stable condition in hospital. Iceland's decision came as 16 European Union countries on Monday gave a large number of Russian envoys notice to leave their territory.

Iceland leaders to not attend FIFA World Cup in Russia this summer

Indian football &ndash; as indeed India &ndash; is going places.

As much as India&rsquo;s recent quantum leap of 30 spots to make it to the world&rsquo;s Top-100 in Ease of Doing Business enthused the businessman in me, a jump of just a couple of notches to break into FIFA&rsquo;s Top-100 ranking for football will be a source of immense joy for the sports enthusiast in me.&nbsp;

The real big moment, of course, would be to see lakhs of little heroes dribbling the ball on the grounds and kicking up a storm in the years to come to make India truly a football country.&nbsp;

Just a few weeks back, Indian Under-19 footballer from Delhi, Luv Kapoor signed up for Palamos FC, one of Spain&rsquo;s oldest football clubs, to play at the highest level that any Indian has in the Spanish Football League. In another part of Europe, the Under-17 World Cup star Dheeraj Singh took up an assignment under the goalposts for Scotland&rsquo;s Motherwell FC.&nbsp;

Closer home, a local football tournament hosted in Baroda over the weekend attracted as many as 1200 players who represented 92 teams from across Gujarat, participating in all age groups &ndash; right from under-9 to under-15.&nbsp;

And at the highest national level, the AIFF has announced the Hero Super Cup for April, where the top 16 teams in the country will participate in the knockout tournament.&nbsp;

Even as Indian players are venturing on to the world stage and the finest international stars are playing before local crowds, the increasing participation at the grassroots level and the swelling crowd in the stands is a testimony to the sport&rsquo;s growing popularity in the country.&nbsp;

Creating Heroes&nbsp;

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Pawan Munjal with Amarjit Singh, captain, Under-17 World Cup skipper Amarji Singh. (Others)
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&nbsp;

For the young aspiring country that India is, sporting icons make the ideal role models. While cricket has captured the imagination of the nation, footfall has all the makings of a popular national sport. Physical prowess, intelligence, tactical acumen and team spirit &ndash;the qualities that go into the making of a good football player are the same as the ones of a successful personality.&nbsp;

In just five years, the Hero Indian Super League has inspired millions of youngsters across the country to take up the sport. While some of them will go on to become professional players in the years to come, I am confident that each youngster who straps the studs and kicks the ball will only get enriched by the game and grow into a fuller personality. Football is not just about scoring goals, but also about setting goals.&nbsp;

Football has made huge strides in the past five years, not just in the traditional bastions of Kerala, West Bengal and Goa, but also in other parts of the country. Over the past 10 years, north-eastern states such as Meghalaya and Manipur have made immense progress, and young footballers from these states are today making their mark at the national level.&nbsp;

The goal&nbsp;

The players are ready and the resources are available. The only thing that is required is consistent commitment on the part of administrators, state associations, clubs and coaches to give their best for the game.&nbsp;

There is a need to develop playgrounds with more grass on them so that our players are not afraid of making diving tackles for the fear of picking up injuries. Then we need better sports medicine specialists attached to the teams so that the injuries are treated expeditiously and appropriately and don&rsquo;t get aggravated. We also need to train and groom referees from the grassroots so that they gain enough confidence to officiate at the highest level without getting intimidated, to be able to penalize the players committing serious fouls. These three measures will certainly go a long way in instilling a lot of confidence in our young players and prepare them for the intensely competitive big league at the global level. &nbsp;

On our part as long-term supporters, we are committed to continuing to contribute towards the creation of a sporting culture in the country, and we are convinced that football has huge potential to be a positive influencer for the youth. We are determined to play the role of a catalyst &ndash; a change agent &ndash; in bringing about a complete transformation in the &lsquo;culture&rsquo; of football in India.

If we collectively put our hearts to it, it is a matter of just a few years before football will be the chosen sport for millions of Indians. Simultaneously, the immense talent that lies latent within the country will begin to express itself on the world stage.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The players are ready and the resources are available. The only thing that is required is consistent commitment on the part of administrators, state associations, clubs and coaches to give their best for Indian Football.

Indian football – as indeed India – is going places. As much as India’s recent quantum leap of 30 spots to make it to the world’s Top-100 in Ease of Doing Business enthused the businessman in me, a jump of just a couple of notches to break into FIFA’s Top-100 ranking for football will be a source of immense joy for the sports enthusiast in me. The real big moment, of course, would be to see lakhs of little heroes dribbling the ball on the grounds and kicking up a storm in the years to come to make India truly a football country. Just a few weeks back, Indian Under-19 footballer from Delhi, Luv Kapoor signed up for Palamos FC, one of Spain’s oldest football clubs, to play at the highest level that any Indian has in the Spanish Football League. In another part of Europe, the Under-17 World Cup star Dheeraj Singh took up an assignment under the goalposts for Scotland’s Motherwell FC. Closer home, a local football tournament hosted in Baroda over the weekend attracted as many as 1200 players who represented 92 teams from across Gujarat, participating in all age groups – right from under-9 to under-15. And at the highest national level, the AIFF has announced the Hero Super Cup for April, where the top 16 teams in the country will participate in the knockout tournament. Even as Indian players are venturing on to the world stage and the finest international stars are playing before local crowds, the increasing participation at the grassroots level and the swelling crowd in the stands is a testimony to the sport’s growing popularity in the country. Creating Heroes Pawan Munjal with Amarjit Singh, captain, Under-17 World Cup skipper Amarji Singh. (Others) × For the young aspiring country that India is, sporting icons make the ideal role models. While cricket has captured the imagination of the nation, footfall has all the makings of a popular national sport. Physical prowess, intelligence, tactical acumen and team spirit –the qualities that go into the making of a good football player are the same as the ones of a successful personality. In just five years, the Hero Indian Super League has inspired millions of youngsters across the country to take up the sport. While some of them will go on to become professional players in the years to come, I am confident that each youngster who straps the studs and kicks the ball will only get enriched by the game and grow into a fuller personality. Football is not just about scoring goals, but also about setting goals. Football has made huge strides in the past five years, not just in the traditional bastions of Kerala, West Bengal and Goa, but also in other parts of the country. Over the past 10 years, north-eastern states such as Meghalaya and Manipur have made immense progress, and young footballers from these states are today making their mark at the national level. The goal The players are ready and the resources are available. The only thing that is required is consistent commitment on the part of administrators, state associations, clubs and coaches to give their best for the game. There is a need to develop playgrounds with more grass on them so that our players are not afraid of making diving tackles for the fear of picking up injuries. Then we need better sports medicine specialists attached to the teams so that the injuries are treated expeditiously and appropriately and don’t get aggravated. We also need to train and groom referees from the grassroots so that they gain enough confidence to officiate at the highest level without getting intimidated, to be able to penalize the players committing serious fouls. These three measures will certainly go a long way in instilling a lot of confidence in our young players and prepare them for the intensely competitive big league at the global level. On our part as long-term supporters, we are committed to continuing to contribute towards the creation of a sporting culture in the country, and we are convinced that football has huge potential to be a positive influencer for the youth. We are determined to play the role of a catalyst – a change agent – in bringing about a complete transformation in the ‘culture’ of football in India. If we collectively put our hearts to it, it is a matter of just a few years before football will be the chosen sport for millions of Indians. Simultaneously, the immense talent that lies latent within the country will begin to express itself on the world stage. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Indian football rising from the grassroots

Football legend Pele, 77, is confident that Brazil has a strong chance to win the FIFA World Cup due to begin&nbsp;in June.

Five-time winners Brazil were thrashed 7-1 in the 2014 semi-finals by Germany, but Pele has faith in the newly appointed coach, Adenor Leonardo Bacchi.

He advised&nbsp;the Brazilian&nbsp;footballers to play as a team&nbsp;and not rely on just one or two players.

&quot;Whenever Brazil won World Cups it was not because of Pele, Zico&hellip; it was because of the team,&quot; he said.

The king of football was honoured on Monday in Rio de Janeiro during an event to launch the 2018 edition of the Rio State League.

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Legendary Brazilian footballer Pele uses a walking frame as he greets supporters. (AFP)
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Pele is recovering from several surgeries. In the backstage, he denied to take any assistance&nbsp;to reach the stage, he said his walker is the&nbsp;&quot;new God-given boots&quot;.

&quot;I&#39;m fine, thank goodness, and I want to thank all those who sent me messages wishing me a good recovery from all over the world,&quot; he said.

He also criticised the current scenario of football and mentioned that very few players are emerging as legends.

&quot;Today, there are only three players who really stand out; Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar,&quot; he said.

Pele stated that, in the past, you could name several star footballers who played at the same time, such as Portugal&#39;s Eusebio, Germany&#39;s Franz Beckenbauer, England&#39;s Bobby Moore and his Brazil teammates such as Tostao, Jairzinho among others.

Pele, who scored over 1,000 goals during his career, despite any comparisons that might one day appear, &quot;there will be no other Pele&quot;.

&nbsp;

Pele, who scored over 1,000 goals during his career is confident that Brazil has a strong chance to win FIFA World Cup 2018

Football legend Pele, 77, is confident that Brazil has a strong chance to win the FIFA World Cup due to begin in June. Five-time winners Brazil were thrashed 7-1 in the 2014 semi-finals by Germany, but Pele has faith in the newly appointed coach, Adenor Leonardo Bacchi. He advised the Brazilian footballers to play as a team and not rely on just one or two players. "Whenever Brazil won World Cups it was not because of Pele, Zico… it was because of the team," he said. The king of football was honoured on Monday in Rio de Janeiro during an event to launch the 2018 edition of the Rio State League. Legendary Brazilian footballer Pele uses a walking frame as he greets supporters. (AFP) × Pele is recovering from several surgeries. In the backstage, he denied to take any assistance to reach the stage, he said his walker is the "new God-given boots". "I'm fine, thank goodness, and I want to thank all those who sent me messages wishing me a good recovery from all over the world," he said. He also criticised the current scenario of football and mentioned that very few players are emerging as legends. "Today, there are only three players who really stand out; Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar," he said. Pele stated that, in the past, you could name several star footballers who played at the same time, such as Portugal's Eusebio, Germany's Franz Beckenbauer, England's Bobby Moore and his Brazil teammates such as Tostao, Jairzinho among others. Pele, who scored over 1,000 goals during his career, despite any comparisons that might one day appear, "there will be no other Pele".

Watch: Pele 'guides' Brazil ahead of FIFA World Cup

Egypt&nbsp;have finally found their Holy Grail, overcoming the disappointment of decades of heartbreaking failure to reach the World Cup finals for the first time since 1990.

Qualifying had become an obsessive weight on the team, whose repeated failures in the World Cup came in stark contrast to their record-breaking achievements in the African Nations Cup, where they repeatedly won the continental championship.

Egypt&nbsp;reached the African playoffs for the last World Cup but a 6-1 hammering in Ghana proved yet another huge setback and when they were paired with the Ghanaians again in qualifying for the 2018 finals, more disappointment was anticipated.

But Ghana started the campaign poorly, including being beaten 2-0 in Alexandria, and&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;was able to keep their noses in front in the group, even after losing in Uganda and producing unconvincing displays in their last two home matches.

Giddy celebrations followed after qualification was secured with one game to play, with Mohamed Salah tucking away a late penalty to beat Congo 2-1 at home and avoid having to go to Ghana in their last match to try and secure a World Cup place.

Liverpool&rsquo;s Salah was the talisman of the campaign, ending as the leading scorer in the African preliminaries with five goals.

He is among a growing contingent of English-based players in the side, including Ahmed Elmohamady of Aston Villa, Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal, Ahmed Hegazy from West Bromwich Albion and the promising Ramadan Sobhi of Stoke City.

Argentine-born coach Hector Cuper has managed a smooth transition from the aging generation he inherited into a much younger outfit but still relies on the veteran Essam El Hadary in goal.

El Hadary turns 45 in January and if he plays in Russia will set a new record for the tournament&#39;s oldest participant.

Egypt reach the World Cup finals for the first time since 1990

Egypt have finally found their Holy Grail, overcoming the disappointment of decades of heartbreaking failure to reach the World Cup finals for the first time since 1990. Qualifying had become an obsessive weight on the team, whose repeated failures in the World Cup came in stark contrast to their record-breaking achievements in the African Nations Cup, where they repeatedly won the continental championship. Egypt reached the African playoffs for the last World Cup but a 6-1 hammering in Ghana proved yet another huge setback and when they were paired with the Ghanaians again in qualifying for the 2018 finals, more disappointment was anticipated. But Ghana started the campaign poorly, including being beaten 2-0 in Alexandria, and Egypt was able to keep their noses in front in the group, even after losing in Uganda and producing unconvincing displays in their last two home matches. Giddy celebrations followed after qualification was secured with one game to play, with Mohamed Salah tucking away a late penalty to beat Congo 2-1 at home and avoid having to go to Ghana in their last match to try and secure a World Cup place. Liverpool’s Salah was the talisman of the campaign, ending as the leading scorer in the African preliminaries with five goals. He is among a growing contingent of English-based players in the side, including Ahmed Elmohamady of Aston Villa, Mohamed Elneny of Arsenal, Ahmed Hegazy from West Bromwich Albion and the promising Ramadan Sobhi of Stoke City. Argentine-born coach Hector Cuper has managed a smooth transition from the aging generation he inherited into a much younger outfit but still relies on the veteran Essam El Hadary in goal. El Hadary turns 45 in January and if he plays in Russia will set a new record for the tournament's oldest participant.

World Cup football: Egypt finally discover Holy Grail

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lebanons-hezbollah-accuses-saudi-of-detaining-hariri-23953" target="_blank">Saudi Arabia holding Lebanon PM, inciting Israel to strike country: Hezbollah</a>

Lebanon`s powerful Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Friday accused Saudi Arabia of detaining prime minister Saad Hariri and of asking the Shiite movement`s arch-foe Israel to launch strikes.&nbsp;Hariri`s sudden resignation on November 4 in a statement made from Riyadh took the Lebanese political class by surprise and has sparked international concern.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-goalkeeper-accuses-former-fifa-president-of-sexual-harassment-23954" target="_blank">He grabbed my ass: US goalkeeper accuses Sepp Blatter of sexual assault</a>

Hope Solo, the 36-year-old US goalkeeper has accused former FIFA president Sepp Blatter of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/actress-portia-de-rossi-accuses-steven-seagal-of-sexual-harassment-23862" target="_blank">sexual harassment</a>. In an interview with Portugal newspaper Expresso, Solo said that Sepp had grabbed her ass.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/world-cup-playoff-sweden-beat-toothless-italy-with-1-0-23955" target="_blank">Football World Cup play-offs: Sweden beat </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/world-cup-playoff-sweden-beat-toothless-italy-with-1-0-23955" target="_blank">lacklustre</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/world-cup-playoff-sweden-beat-toothless-italy-with-1-0-23955" target="_blank"> Italy</a>

A second-half goal by Sweden substitute Jakob Johansson was enough to beat Italy 1-0 and put his side in the driving seat after their World Cup playoff first leg on a chilly night.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/comedian-louis-ck-admits-sexual-misconduct-entertainment-outlets-cut-ties-23950" target="_blank">&#39;These stories are true,&#39; says comedian Louis CK</a>

US&nbsp;comedian Louis C.K. on Friday admitted to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/actress-portia-de-rossi-accuses-steven-seagal-of-sexual-harassment-23862" target="_blank">sexual misconduct allegations made against him&nbsp;</a>by several women, and television and film companies moved quickly to sever ties. &quot;These stories are true,&quot; C.K. said in a statement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-what-got-cheaper-after-revised-gst-rates-23947" target="_blank">Revised GST rates: Complete list</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the biggest GST rearrangement till date, tax rates on over 200 items were cut down&nbsp;to provide relief to consumers and businesses&nbsp;on Friday.&nbsp;Giving a major reprieve to the common man, the GST Council came up with&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/preview/article/23931">a number of new measures.&nbsp;</a>Maximum pruning was done in the 28% slab which will now be applied to only 50 items from 228 earlier. Many of the items and services which were previously under the 28% bracket will now attract a tax of 18% only.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

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Saudi Arabia holding Lebanon PM, inciting Israel to strike country: Hezbollah Lebanon`s powerful Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Friday accused Saudi Arabia of detaining prime minister Saad Hariri and of asking the Shiite movement`s arch-foe Israel to launch strikes. Hariri`s sudden resignation on November 4 in a statement made from Riyadh took the Lebanese political class by surprise and has sparked international concern. He grabbed my ass: US goalkeeper accuses Sepp Blatter of sexual assault Hope Solo, the 36-year-old US goalkeeper has accused former FIFA president Sepp Blatter of sexual harassment. In an interview with Portugal newspaper Expresso, Solo said that Sepp had grabbed her ass. Football World Cup play-offs: Sweden beat lacklustre Italy A second-half goal by Sweden substitute Jakob Johansson was enough to beat Italy 1-0 and put his side in the driving seat after their World Cup playoff first leg on a chilly night. 'These stories are true,' says comedian Louis CK US comedian Louis C.K. on Friday admitted to sexual misconduct allegations made against him by several women, and television and film companies moved quickly to sever ties. "These stories are true," C.K. said in a statement. Revised GST rates: Complete list In the biggest GST rearrangement till date, tax rates on over 200 items were cut down to provide relief to consumers and businesses on Friday. Giving a major reprieve to the common man, the GST Council came up with a number of new measures. Maximum pruning was done in the 28% slab which will now be applied to only 50 items from 228 earlier. Many of the items and services which were previously under the 28% bracket will now attract a tax of 18% only.

WION Morning news brief, November 11, 2017: 5 stories

New Zealand came from a goal down to draw 1-1 against Turkey in the opening Group B match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup at the D Y Patil Stadium.

Turkey was given a 18th minute lead by striker Ahmed Kutucu through a headed goal which was neutralised in the 58th minute by New Zealand captain Max Mata.

Incidentally, the two countries had drawn 1-1 in their only previous encounter in the tournament eight years ago.

Turkey, making their third appearance in this tournament, appeared the more skillful team in the first half and their quick passing game had the Kiwis under a lot of pressure as unseasonal rains welcomed both the sides.

But New Zealand, who have made the tournament proper for the eighth time and sixth in a row, came into their own in the second half to equalise and even dominated play for a prolonged spell.

The Turks&#39; forward duo of Ahmed Kutucu, who opened their account in the 18th minute with a headed goal, and Malik Karaahmet got splendid support from the mid-field in which Kerem Kesgin and Atalay Babacan stole the show in the first half.

In the eighth minute itself, the New Zealand goal came under a lot of pressure following a speedy left flank run by overlapping back Melih Gokcimen whose angular effort was easily blocked by the rival goalie Jacob Clark.

New Zealand, who counter-attacked on occasions, tried to take advantage of a none-too-sure Turkey defense and saw Kingsley Sinclair hook a ball while off balance just wide of the left post off a feed from Elijah Just.

This was five minutes before the superb headed goal by Kutucu, who is registered with German club F C Schalke 04, as he rose and met the excellent corner kick taken from the right by Kesgin to bulge the right corner of the net.

Kutucu was soon afterwards booked for rough play but continued to harass the New Zealand defense with his skilful play and could have scored again in the 39th minute but for Clark blocking his shot taken from well inside the box.

The change of ends saw New Zealand mount some attacks but it was Turkey who came close to scoring in the 51st minute when captain Recep Gul advanced into the box to meet a cross from the right but his stiff left footed essay was blocked by Kiwi custodian Clark.

The hard work of the Kiwis finally paid dividends when an unmarked Mata took advantage of a leaky defense by running forward to meet a short free-kick taken by midfielder Just and beat Turkey goalkeeper Berke Ozer with a left-footed shot.

Mata was soon afterwards booked for a foul and then a stray dog entered the playing area to stop the game for a brief.

Turkey made three changes by replacing Kutucu, Karaahmet and then Gokcimen, but could not cobble the sort of attacking moves with which they repeatedly troubled their rivals in the first half.

In fact, Turkey&#39;s defense looked vulnerable and their citadel could have fallen again had Spragg not booted over a cross from the left from Mata with none to challenge him.

Turkey was fortunate not to concede a second goal when creative New Zealand media Just hooked a left-footed shot on- the-run that hit the left post and rebounded into play.

At the other end, Turkey captain Kesgin&#39;s shot from well outside the penalty box was stopped by Clark.

New Zealand came from a goal down to draw 1-1 against Turkey in the opening Group B match of the FIFA U-17 World Cup at the D Y Patil Stadium. Turkey was given a 18th minute lead by striker Ahmed Kutucu through a headed goal which was neutralised in the 58th minute by New Zealand captain Max Mata. Incidentally, the two countries had drawn 1-1 in their only previous encounter in the tournament eight years ago. Turkey, making their third appearance in this tournament, appeared the more skillful team in the first half and their quick passing game had the Kiwis under a lot of pressure as unseasonal rains welcomed both the sides. But New Zealand, who have made the tournament proper for the eighth time and sixth in a row, came into their own in the second half to equalise and even dominated play for a prolonged spell. The Turks' forward duo of Ahmed Kutucu, who opened their account in the 18th minute with a headed goal, and Malik Karaahmet got splendid support from the mid-field in which Kerem Kesgin and Atalay Babacan stole the show in the first half. In the eighth minute itself, the New Zealand goal came under a lot of pressure following a speedy left flank run by overlapping back Melih Gokcimen whose angular effort was easily blocked by the rival goalie Jacob Clark. New Zealand, who counter-attacked on occasions, tried to take advantage of a none-too-sure Turkey defense and saw Kingsley Sinclair hook a ball while off balance just wide of the left post off a feed from Elijah Just. This was five minutes before the superb headed goal by Kutucu, who is registered with German club F C Schalke 04, as he rose and met the excellent corner kick taken from the right by Kesgin to bulge the right corner of the net. Kutucu was soon afterwards booked for rough play but continued to harass the New Zealand defense with his skilful play and could have scored again in the 39th minute but for Clark blocking his shot taken from well inside the box. The change of ends saw New Zealand mount some attacks but it was Turkey who came close to scoring in the 51st minute when captain Recep Gul advanced into the box to meet a cross from the right but his stiff left footed essay was blocked by Kiwi custodian Clark. The hard work of the Kiwis finally paid dividends when an unmarked Mata took advantage of a leaky defense by running forward to meet a short free-kick taken by midfielder Just and beat Turkey goalkeeper Berke Ozer with a left-footed shot. Mata was soon afterwards booked for a foul and then a stray dog entered the playing area to stop the game for a brief. Turkey made three changes by replacing Kutucu, Karaahmet and then Gokcimen, but could not cobble the sort of attacking moves with which they repeatedly troubled their rivals in the first half. In fact, Turkey's defense looked vulnerable and their citadel could have fallen again had Spragg not booted over a cross from the left from Mata with none to challenge him. Turkey was fortunate not to concede a second goal when creative New Zealand media Just hooked a left-footed shot on- the-run that hit the left post and rebounded into play. At the other end, Turkey captain Kesgin's shot from well outside the penalty box was stopped by Clark.

U-17 World Cup: New Zealand rally to hold Turkey to draw

Germany&nbsp;fired six past Norway while England fought back after an early scare to beat Slovakia in European&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;qualifying on Monday.

Timo Werner scored a double in&nbsp;Germany&#39;s 6-0 rout of the Norwegians in Stuttgart to leave Joachim Loew&#39;s&nbsp;world&nbsp;champions with a perfect eight out of eight record atop Group C.

But with second-placed Northern Ireland beating the Czech Republic 2-0 in Belfast&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;will have to wait until their next match, away to the Irish on October 5, to seal automatic qualification to Russia.

Werner, booed by his own fans in&nbsp;Germany&#39;s 2-1 win in Prague against the Czechs last Friday, came off to a standing ovation this time after netting in the 21st and 40th minutes.

After struggling to beat the Czechs, this was a far more polished performance, with Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil&#39;s 10th-minute opener sparking the rout.

Paris Saint-Germain star Julian Draxler netted the second with Werner&#39;s brace putting them four goals up at the break.

Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka grabbed&nbsp;Germany&#39;s fifth with Werner&#39;s replacement, the 32-year-old veteran Mario Gomez, rounding off a productive night.

It was the perfect antidote after Friday&#39;s laboured trip to Prague marred by a group of 200 right-wing German fans chanting Nazi-era slogans.

&quot;That showed the beautiful side of football,&quot; said head coach Loew, who had said Friday&#39;s scenes in Prague &quot;shamed&nbsp;Germany&quot;, following Werner&#39;s ovation after his two goals.

&quot;It was a huge amount of fun to play here and we played our part in that with some great combinations and goals.&quot;

The Northern Irish guaranteed themselves at least a place in the play-offs thanks to Jonny Evans&#39; second international goal eight years after his first and his West Bromwich Albion teammate Chris Brunt&#39;s 41st minute freekick.

&quot;I thought I might have been offside,&quot; Evans admitted. &quot;I thought I&#39;d head it anyway and see what happens. I saw it go into the net and I don&#39;t remember much after that!&quot;

Manager Michael O&#39;Neill praised his men after yet another solid defensive display.

&quot;We&#39;re in a great position now. We&#39;re guaranteed second place and seven clean sheets out of eight is a phenomenal record.&quot;

At Wembley, England were stunned when Stanislav Lobotka gave Slovakia a third-minute lead after a costly error by Marcus Rashford.

But the 19-year-old atoned in style when setting up the equaliser for Eric Dier and then netting a sumptuous 20-yard winner in the second half.

Victory sent England five points clear of Slovakia in Group F -- Gareth Southgate&#39;s side need only two points from their last two games against Slovenia and Lithuania to seal qualification.

&quot;To come from behind against a side with very good footballers, particularly in midfield, we had to show character,&quot; said Southgate.

&quot;Marcus Rashford showed, like the rest of the team, great character. He made the mistake for their goal, but he kept persevering.&quot;

Scotland kept alive their hopes of a play-off place with a 2-0 home win over Malta, the goals coming from Christophe Berra and Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths.

Gordan Strachan&#39;s team are alive and kicking on the road to Russia in fourth place, on 14 points.

Elsewhere, Poland held on to the Group E summit, beating Kazakhstan 3-0, with Denmark going second on the strength of a 4-1 win in Armenia.

Germany?fired six past Norway while England fought back after an early scare to beat Slovakia in European?World?Cup?qualifying

Germany fired six past Norway while England fought back after an early scare to beat Slovakia in European World Cup qualifying on Monday. Timo Werner scored a double in Germany's 6-0 rout of the Norwegians in Stuttgart to leave Joachim Loew's world champions with a perfect eight out of eight record atop Group C. But with second-placed Northern Ireland beating the Czech Republic 2-0 in Belfast Germany will have to wait until their next match, away to the Irish on October 5, to seal automatic qualification to Russia. Werner, booed by his own fans in Germany's 2-1 win in Prague against the Czechs last Friday, came off to a standing ovation this time after netting in the 21st and 40th minutes. After struggling to beat the Czechs, this was a far more polished performance, with Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil's 10th-minute opener sparking the rout. Paris Saint-Germain star Julian Draxler netted the second with Werner's brace putting them four goals up at the break. Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka grabbed Germany's fifth with Werner's replacement, the 32-year-old veteran Mario Gomez, rounding off a productive night. It was the perfect antidote after Friday's laboured trip to Prague marred by a group of 200 right-wing German fans chanting Nazi-era slogans. "That showed the beautiful side of football," said head coach Loew, who had said Friday's scenes in Prague "shamed Germany", following Werner's ovation after his two goals. "It was a huge amount of fun to play here and we played our part in that with some great combinations and goals." The Northern Irish guaranteed themselves at least a place in the play-offs thanks to Jonny Evans' second international goal eight years after his first and his West Bromwich Albion teammate Chris Brunt's 41st minute freekick. "I thought I might have been offside," Evans admitted. "I thought I'd head it anyway and see what happens. I saw it go into the net and I don't remember much after that!" Manager Michael O'Neill praised his men after yet another solid defensive display. "We're in a great position now. We're guaranteed second place and seven clean sheets out of eight is a phenomenal record." At Wembley, England were stunned when Stanislav Lobotka gave Slovakia a third-minute lead after a costly error by Marcus Rashford. But the 19-year-old atoned in style when setting up the equaliser for Eric Dier and then netting a sumptuous 20-yard winner in the second half. Victory sent England five points clear of Slovakia in Group F -- Gareth Southgate's side need only two points from their last two games against Slovenia and Lithuania to seal qualification. "To come from behind against a side with very good footballers, particularly in midfield, we had to show character," said Southgate. "Marcus Rashford showed, like the rest of the team, great character. He made the mistake for their goal, but he kept persevering." Scotland kept alive their hopes of a play-off place with a 2-0 home win over Malta, the goals coming from Christophe Berra and Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths. Gordan Strachan's team are alive and kicking on the road to Russia in fourth place, on 14 points. Elsewhere, Poland held on to the Group E summit, beating Kazakhstan 3-0, with Denmark going second on the strength of a 4-1 win in Armenia.

World Cup qualifiers: Germany rout Norway, England survive Slovakia scare

A story claiming that six Arab nations had written to FIFA demanding that Qatar be stripped of the World Cup in 2022 was published on what appeared to be a fake version of a Swiss news website, the site&#39;s co-founder said on Sunday.

The report, carried on a website resembling The Local, included quotes purporting to be from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Reuters published stories based on the report, which were subsequently withdrawn.

The fake story on The Local&nbsp;said that the six countries, which last month cut ties with Qatar, had collectively written to world soccer&#39;s governing body asking it to remove Qatar as hosts under Article 85 of the FIFA Code, which allows for such action in the case of emergency.

<h3><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uae-arranged-for-hacking-of-qatar-govt-sites-causing-diplomatic-row-washington-post-17984" target="_blank">Related Read:&nbsp;UAE arranged for hacking of Qatar gov&#39;t sites, causing diplomatic row: Washington Post</a></h3>

&nbsp;

&quot;The Local&#39;s staff neither wrote, published nor removed the article in question and The Local can therefore not vouch for any of the claims made,&quot; co-founder James Savage said in a statement on Sunday.

&quot;Our investigation so far indicates the article appeared on a fake site designed to look like The Local, and never appeared on The Local&#39;s own site.&quot;

The Local publishes in English and operates nine news sites across Europe.

Reuters published stories based on the report, which were subsequently withdrawn

A story claiming that six Arab nations had written to FIFA demanding that Qatar be stripped of the World Cup in 2022 was published on what appeared to be a fake version of a Swiss news website, the site's co-founder said on Sunday. The report, carried on a website resembling The Local, included quotes purporting to be from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Reuters published stories based on the report, which were subsequently withdrawn. The fake story on The Local said that the six countries, which last month cut ties with Qatar, had collectively written to world soccer's governing body asking it to remove Qatar as hosts under Article 85 of the FIFA Code, which allows for such action in the case of emergency. Related Read: UAE arranged for hacking of Qatar gov't sites, causing diplomatic row: Washington Post "The Local's staff neither wrote, published nor removed the article in question and The Local can therefore not vouch for any of the claims made," co-founder James Savage said in a statement on Sunday. "Our investigation so far indicates the article appeared on a fake site designed to look like The Local, and never appeared on The Local's own site." The Local publishes in English and operates nine news sites across Europe.

Website says report of plot to strip Qatar of World Cup was 'fake'

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