Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010 final in South Africa with an extra-time strike from Andres Iniesta.

Before then they had reached the quarter-finals in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002 but lost every time. As holders they suffered a shock elimination from the group stage in 2014.

<hr />
Coach: Julen Lopetegui

Former goalkeeper Lopetegui spent most of his career with Logrones and Rayo Vallecano and had brief stints at Real Madrid and Barcelona. He made one appearance for Spain and was an unused substitute at the 1994 World Cup.

He coached Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid's reserve team before going into Spain's youth team set-up, leading the under-21 team to glory at the 2013 European Championship with a side containing future first teamers Isco, Koke and David de Gea.

After being sacked following a trophy-less 18 months at FC Porto he was named Vicente del Bosque's successor in July 2016. He has rejuvenated the squad with many of his former charges from the under-21 side and helped them to recover their attacking flair, refocusing on a possession-based style of play but making them faster and more dangerous on the counter-attack.

<hr />
Key players:

Isco: Lopetegui knows how to get the best out of the Real Madrid playmaker. He can play across midfield, behind the striker or even as a deep-lying centre-forward and ran riot in impressive wins over Italy and Argentina.

Andres Iniesta: The Barcelona veteran has conducted Spain's all-powerful midfield for more than a decade and was the heartbeat of their world dominance between 2008 and 2012. Still, as masterful on the ball as ever at 34 years of age, he will be looking for one last hurrah in Russia before quitting international football and leaving Barca.

Sergio Ramos: The centre-back and captain has developed a win-at-all-costs mentality and knows exactly how to manage the biggest games. An unforgiving opponent for attackers due to his physical presence and never-say-die attitude, Ramos's experience of four Champions League finals with Real Madrid and five major tournaments will be vital to Spain's hopes.

<hr />
Form guide:

Spain have not lost since their Euro 2016 last-16 defeat to Italy and have won 13 out of 18 games with Lopetegui, drawing five. They comprehensively beat France and Belgium in international friendlies and proved their credentials by ripping apart Argentina 6-1 in their last outing.

How they qualified:

Spain breezed their way through qualifying by winning every game aside from a 1-1 draw away to Italy, whom they outclassed 3-0 at home to finish above them and top of their group, scoring 36 goals in 10 games.

<hr />
Prospects:

Spain will face a testing opener against European champions Portugal which is likely to determine whether they finish top of Group B, which also contains Iran and Morocco.

If they win the group they are likely to face either Uruguay or Egypt in the last 16, with a possible quarter-final against Argentina, Croatia or France coming next.

Given the talent in the squad and their form under Lopetegui, a semi-final appearance should be the minimal target, although they will feel confident they can go all the way.

<hr />
Spains's fixture:

June 15

11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 20

11:30 PM | Iran vs Spain | Kazan Arena, Kazan

June 25

11:30 PM | Spain vs Morocco | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers: David De Gea (Manchester United/ENG), Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Bilbao/ESP)

Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona/ESP), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal/ENG), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid/ESP), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid/ESP), Gerard Pique (Barcelona/ESP), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid/ESP), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad/ESP)

Midfielders: Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona/ESP), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona/ESP), Koke (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid/ESP), David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid/ESP), Isco (Real Madrid/ESP)

Forwards: Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo/ESP), Rodrigo (Valencia/ESP), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid/ESP)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia.jpg" width="770" />

Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010

Spain have played in 14 World Cups and qualified for every edition since 1978. They have won it once, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in the 2010 final in South Africa with an extra-time strike from Andres Iniesta. Before then they had reached the quarter-finals in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002 but lost every time. As holders they suffered a shock elimination from the group stage in 2014. Coach: Julen Lopetegui Former goalkeeper Lopetegui spent most of his career with Logrones and Rayo Vallecano and had brief stints at Real Madrid and Barcelona. He made one appearance for Spain and was an unused substitute at the 1994 World Cup. He coached Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid's reserve team before going into Spain's youth team set-up, leading the under-21 team to glory at the 2013 European Championship with a side containing future first teamers Isco, Koke and David de Gea. After being sacked following a trophy-less 18 months at FC Porto he was named Vicente del Bosque's successor in July 2016. He has rejuvenated the squad with many of his former charges from the under-21 side and helped them to recover their attacking flair, refocusing on a possession-based style of play but making them faster and more dangerous on the counter-attack. Key players: Isco: Lopetegui knows how to get the best out of the Real Madrid playmaker. He can play across midfield, behind the striker or even as a deep-lying centre-forward and ran riot in impressive wins over Italy and Argentina. Andres Iniesta: The Barcelona veteran has conducted Spain's all-powerful midfield for more than a decade and was the heartbeat of their world dominance between 2008 and 2012. Still, as masterful on the ball as ever at 34 years of age, he will be looking for one last hurrah in Russia before quitting international football and leaving Barca. Sergio Ramos: The centre-back and captain has developed a win-at-all-costs mentality and knows exactly how to manage the biggest games. An unforgiving opponent for attackers due to his physical presence and never-say-die attitude, Ramos's experience of four Champions League finals with Real Madrid and five major tournaments will be vital to Spain's hopes. Form guide: Spain have not lost since their Euro 2016 last-16 defeat to Italy and have won 13 out of 18 games with Lopetegui, drawing five. They comprehensively beat France and Belgium in international friendlies and proved their credentials by ripping apart Argentina 6-1 in their last outing. How they qualified: Spain breezed their way through qualifying by winning every game aside from a 1-1 draw away to Italy, whom they outclassed 3-0 at home to finish above them and top of their group, scoring 36 goals in 10 games. Prospects: Spain will face a testing opener against European champions Portugal which is likely to determine whether they finish top of Group B, which also contains Iran and Morocco. If they win the group they are likely to face either Uruguay or Egypt in the last 16, with a possible quarter-final against Argentina, Croatia or France coming next. Given the talent in the squad and their form under Lopetegui, a semi-final appearance should be the minimal target, although they will feel confident they can go all the way. Spains's fixture: June 15 11:30 PM | Portugal vs Spain | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 20 11:30 PM | Iran vs Spain | Kazan Arena, Kazan June 25 11:30 PM | Spain vs Morocco | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad Squad: Goalkeepers: David De Gea (Manchester United/ENG), Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA), Kepa Arrizabalaga (Athletic Bilbao/ESP) Defenders: Jordi Alba (Barcelona/ESP), Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Nacho Monreal (Arsenal/ENG), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid/ESP), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid/ESP), Gerard Pique (Barcelona/ESP), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid/ESP), Alvaro Odriozola (Real Sociedad/ESP) Midfielders: Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona/ESP), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona/ESP), Koke (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Saul Niguez (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Marco Asensio (Real Madrid/ESP), David Silva (Manchester City/ENG), Lucas Vazquez (Real Madrid/ESP), Isco (Real Madrid/ESP) Forwards: Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo/ESP), Rodrigo (Valencia/ESP), Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid/ESP)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Spain

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years. The Red Devils lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals in Brazil and their best performance remains their semi-final appearance in 1986 when they fell to the eventual champions, also Argentina.

<hr />
Coach: Roberto Martinez:&nbsp

The 44-year-old Spaniard was a surprise successor to Marc Wilmots, who was dismissed after Belgium lost to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals. Martinez was then himself out of work after being sacked by Everton following a frustrating season in which they finished 11th in the Premier League. The former Swansea City manager, however, led unfancied Wigan Athletic to their only FA Cup victory in 2013 when the club beat Manchester City in the final. Under him Belgium cruised to the top of their qualifying group for Russia with an unbeaten record, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the 2018 finals.

<hr />
Key players:

Kevin de Bruyne: The 26-year-old Manchester City midfielder has been the driving force in Pep Guardiola's record-breaking side. De Bruyne's work rate and ability to produce a procession of pinpoint passes took City to a new level, leaving all other title aspirants lagging way behind.

Eden Hazard: The Chelsea playmaker had a similar impact in Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign a year ago, much like De Bruyne's this time around. Hazard's dribbling and movement, on and off the ball, constantly pose questions for defenders and the 27-year-old can carve through the toughest of defences when in form.

Romelu Lukaku:&nbspThe 24-year-old striker, who joined Manchester United at the beginning of the season, is a proven goalscorer with more than 100 strikes in the Premier League and is already Belgium's all-time top scorer with 33. With a dazzling midfield featuring De Bruyne and Hazard, Belgium will depend heavily on Lukaku to find the net.

<hr />
Form guide:

After drawing 3-3 against Mexico in Brussels last November, Roberto Martinez's side went on to beat Japan 1-0 four days later and then picked up a confidence-boosting 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia towards the end of March. They will play three more warm-up matches in June before kicking off their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18.

How they qualified: The Red Devils cruised through their qualification group, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the finals in Russia. Belgium finished as Group H winners, with nine wins and a draw, scoring 43 goals in the process.

<hr />
Prospects:

Like four years ago in Brazil, Belgium will once again arrive on the world stage in Russia replete with talent who ply their trade in top leagues across Europe. They showed what they are capable of during World Cup qualification. While few doubt their attacking prowess, the jury is still out on their defensive organisation. They will be expected to top Group G which includes England, Panama and Tunisia, but will need a solid backline to ensure the campaign does not end up as another missed opportunity.

<hr />
Belgium's fixture:

June 18

08:30 PM | Belgium vs Panama | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi

June 23

05:30 PM | Belgium vs Tunisia | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow

June 28

11:30 PM | England vs Belgium | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad

<hr />
Provisional 28-man World Cup squad:

Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea/ENG), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool/ENG), Matz Sels (Anderlecht), Koen Casteels (Wolfsburg/GER)

Defenders: Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen (both Tottenham Hotspurs/ENG), Dedryck Boyata (Celtic/SCO), Laurent Ciman (Los Angeles FC/USA), Christian Kabasele (Watford/ENG), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City/ENG), Jordan Lukaku (Lazio/ITA), Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona/ESP)

Midfielders: Leander Dendoncker (Anderlecht), Yannick Carrasco (Dalian Yifang/CHN), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/ENG), Nacer Chadli (West Bromwich Albion/ENG), Mousa Dembele (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United/ENG), Eden Hazard (Chelsea/ENG), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach/GER), Adnan Januzaj (Real Sociedad/ESP), Youri Tielemans (Monaco/FRA), Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian/CHN)

Forwards: Dries Mertens (Napoli/ITA), Michy Batshuayi (Chelsea/ENG), Christian Benteke (Crystal Palace/ENG), Romelu Lukaku (Manchester United/ENG)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_9.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_9.jpg" width="770" />

&nbsp

&nbsp

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years

Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years. The Red Devils lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals in Brazil and their best performance remains their semi-final appearance in 1986 when they fell to the eventual champions, also Argentina. Coach: Roberto Martinez: The 44-year-old Spaniard was a surprise successor to Marc Wilmots, who was dismissed after Belgium lost to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarter-finals. Martinez was then himself out of work after being sacked by Everton following a frustrating season in which they finished 11th in the Premier League. The former Swansea City manager, however, led unfancied Wigan Athletic to their only FA Cup victory in 2013 when the club beat Manchester City in the final. Under him Belgium cruised to the top of their qualifying group for Russia with an unbeaten record, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the 2018 finals. Key players: Kevin de Bruyne: The 26-year-old Manchester City midfielder has been the driving force in Pep Guardiola's record-breaking side. De Bruyne's work rate and ability to produce a procession of pinpoint passes took City to a new level, leaving all other title aspirants lagging way behind. Eden Hazard: The Chelsea playmaker had a similar impact in Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign a year ago, much like De Bruyne's this time around. Hazard's dribbling and movement, on and off the ball, constantly pose questions for defenders and the 27-year-old can carve through the toughest of defences when in form. Romelu Lukaku: The 24-year-old striker, who joined Manchester United at the beginning of the season, is a proven goalscorer with more than 100 strikes in the Premier League and is already Belgium's all-time top scorer with 33. With a dazzling midfield featuring De Bruyne and Hazard, Belgium will depend heavily on Lukaku to find the net. Form guide: After drawing 3-3 against Mexico in Brussels last November, Roberto Martinez's side went on to beat Japan 1-0 four days later and then picked up a confidence-boosting 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia towards the end of March. They will play three more warm-up matches in June before kicking off their World Cup campaign against Panama on June 18. How they qualified: The Red Devils cruised through their qualification group, becoming the first European nation to secure their spot for the finals in Russia. Belgium finished as Group H winners, with nine wins and a draw, scoring 43 goals in the process. Prospects: Like four years ago in Brazil, Belgium will once again arrive on the world stage in Russia replete with talent who ply their trade in top leagues across Europe. They showed what they are capable of during World Cup qualification. While few doubt their attacking prowess, the jury is still out on their defensive organisation. They will be expected to top Group G which includes England, Panama and Tunisia, but will need a solid backline to ensure the campaign does not end up as another missed opportunity. Belgium's fixture: June 18 08:30 PM | Belgium vs Panama | Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi June 23 05:30 PM | Belgium vs Tunisia | Otkrytiye Arena, Moscow June 28 11:30 PM | England vs Belgium | Kaliningrad Stadium, Kaliningrad Provisional 28-man World Cup squad: Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea/ENG), Simon Mignolet (Liverpool/ENG), Matz Sels (Anderlecht), Koen Casteels (Wolfsburg/GER) Defenders: Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen (both Tottenham Hotspurs/ENG), Dedryck Boyata (Celtic/SCO), Laurent Ciman (Los Angeles FC/USA), Christian Kabasele (Watford/ENG), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City/ENG), Jordan Lukaku (Lazio/ITA), Thomas Meunier (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona/ESP) Midfielders: Leander Dendoncker (Anderlecht), Yannick Carrasco (Dalian Yifang/CHN), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City/ENG), Nacer Chadli (West Bromwich Albion/ENG), Mousa Dembele (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Marouane Fellaini (Manchester United/ENG), Eden Hazard (Chelsea/ENG), Thorgan Hazard (Borussia Monchengladbach/GER), Adnan Januzaj (Real Sociedad/ESP), Youri Tielemans (Monaco/FRA), Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian/CHN) Forwards: Dries Mertens (Napoli/ITA), Michy Batshuayi (Chelsea/ENG), Christian Benteke (Crystal Palace/ENG), Romelu Lukaku (Manchester United/ENG)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Belgium

For football fans, the World Cup should be a time of fun with family and friends. But beware, experts say, it can also sicken or even kill you.&nbsp;

Research has pointed to a long list of hazards ranging from heart attacks and strokes, to unsafe sex, accidents, suicides, and a spike in domestic abuse.

"It is not just a game," warned a 2010 study in the American Journal of Medicine which said major sporting events "can acutely increase cardiovascular event and death rates."

Most at risk are patients with known coronary artery disease, it said, or those who find themselves in particularly stressful circumstances: "a passionate fan, a high-stakes game, a high-intensity game, a loss, and a loss played at home."

Many a football fan may have shouted at the TV that they "nearly had a heart attack" when their team missed a shot at goal or let an opposing player through to score.

But this is not something to joke about.

Research has repeatedly shown that psychological triggers such as stress, anxiety, and anger -- emotions any sports fan can relate to -- can bring on a heart attack.

"We know that this is an exciting time but don’t forget about your heart health," advises Julie Ward, a senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation.

Measures to reduce risk include using blood-thinning aspirin, meditation, and avoiding activities such as smoking, eating artery-clogging, fatty foods, or binging on alcohol or drugs.

Eye strokes

Though not within the control of fans, winning or losing makes a difference too, according to one study in New Zealand.

It found a 50 percent increase in hospital admissions for heart failure, particularly among women, after a semi-final loss in the 2003 rugby World Cup.

By contrast, hospitalisations were lower after the country's 2011 semi-final win.

It is not only our hearts we should watch.

One study noted an explosion during the 2014 World Cup in cases of "retinal vein occlusion" -- a blockage of small veins in the eye that is also known as an "eye stroke".

A common cause of vision loss, it is more common in people with cardiovascular disease.

Researchers compared the number of cases treated at a German university eye clinic during and four weeks after the 2014 World Cup with the same period in 2013.

It found a definite increase, and said "it can be assumed that the emotional strain caused by a World Cup is a risk factor."

Why does the beautiful game stir up such dangerous passions?

Psychologists have suggested that sporting events can give people a sense of group belonging and shared identity.

There is also the sense of hope they provide, even for fans of teams that never win... Maybe this time!

With such a deep emotional investment and high expectations, failure can lead to crushing disappointment. And it can drive some to more than just tears.

Several studies have found suicides rocketing after a World Cup defeat.&nbsp;

A study last year found "a significant increase" in hospital admissions of young women in Tehran who drank poison during the four weeks of the 2014 World Cup.

Iran was eliminated in the knockout stages.

Conversely, in 2012, a study reported a "significant decline" in suicides in France during the four weeks of the 1998 football World Cup the country hosted and won.

Drink water, move around

A further threat to fans, experts warn, is risky behaviour driven by drinking too much alcohol, leading to road accidents, unsafe sex, and violence.

A 2013 study, looking at trends during 2002, 2006, and 2010 World Cups, found the risk of domestic abuse in England rose by 26 percent when the national team won or drew, and 38 percent when it lost.&nbsp;

Keeping an eye on alcohol intake is high on the list of "simple steps to stay healthy" compiled by Ward.

"Make sure you drink plenty of water to keep hydrated during the match," she added.

"Also cut back on the drinks high in sugar or caffeine as these can affect your heart rate and rhythm," she told AFP.

No need to cut out snacking altogether.

"But try and have some healthy choices in the house too -– try hummus and carrot sticks, a variety of colourful fruit and some popcorn, either plain or spiced with paprika, chili or rosemary, for a lower-fat, lower calorie alternative to crisps and roasted nuts," Ward recommended.

And don't sit down for too long, she added. Get up and move around at least every 30 minutes for the sake of our heart.

Research has pointed to a long list of hazards ranging from heart attacks and strokes, to unsafe sex, accidents, suicides, and a spike in domestic abuse

For football fans, the World Cup should be a time of fun with family and friends. But beware, experts say, it can also sicken or even kill you. Research has pointed to a long list of hazards ranging from heart attacks and strokes, to unsafe sex, accidents, suicides, and a spike in domestic abuse. "It is not just a game," warned a 2010 study in the American Journal of Medicine which said major sporting events "can acutely increase cardiovascular event and death rates." Most at risk are patients with known coronary artery disease, it said, or those who find themselves in particularly stressful circumstances: "a passionate fan, a high-stakes game, a high-intensity game, a loss, and a loss played at home." Many a football fan may have shouted at the TV that they "nearly had a heart attack" when their team missed a shot at goal or let an opposing player through to score. But this is not something to joke about. Research has repeatedly shown that psychological triggers such as stress, anxiety, and anger -- emotions any sports fan can relate to -- can bring on a heart attack. "We know that this is an exciting time but don’t forget about your heart health," advises Julie Ward, a senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation. Measures to reduce risk include using blood-thinning aspirin, meditation, and avoiding activities such as smoking, eating artery-clogging, fatty foods, or binging on alcohol or drugs. Eye strokes Though not within the control of fans, winning or losing makes a difference too, according to one study in New Zealand. It found a 50 percent increase in hospital admissions for heart failure, particularly among women, after a semi-final loss in the 2003 rugby World Cup. By contrast, hospitalisations were lower after the country's 2011 semi-final win. It is not only our hearts we should watch. One study noted an explosion during the 2014 World Cup in cases of "retinal vein occlusion" -- a blockage of small veins in the eye that is also known as an "eye stroke". A common cause of vision loss, it is more common in people with cardiovascular disease. Researchers compared the number of cases treated at a German university eye clinic during and four weeks after the 2014 World Cup with the same period in 2013. It found a definite increase, and said "it can be assumed that the emotional strain caused by a World Cup is a risk factor." Why does the beautiful game stir up such dangerous passions? Psychologists have suggested that sporting events can give people a sense of group belonging and shared identity. There is also the sense of hope they provide, even for fans of teams that never win... Maybe this time! With such a deep emotional investment and high expectations, failure can lead to crushing disappointment. And it can drive some to more than just tears. Several studies have found suicides rocketing after a World Cup defeat. A study last year found "a significant increase" in hospital admissions of young women in Tehran who drank poison during the four weeks of the 2014 World Cup. Iran was eliminated in the knockout stages. Conversely, in 2012, a study reported a "significant decline" in suicides in France during the four weeks of the 1998 football World Cup the country hosted and won. Drink water, move around A further threat to fans, experts warn, is risky behaviour driven by drinking too much alcohol, leading to road accidents, unsafe sex, and violence. A 2013 study, looking at trends during 2002, 2006, and 2010 World Cups, found the risk of domestic abuse in England rose by 26 percent when the national team won or drew, and 38 percent when it lost. Keeping an eye on alcohol intake is high on the list of "simple steps to stay healthy" compiled by Ward. "Make sure you drink plenty of water to keep hydrated during the match," she added. "Also cut back on the drinks high in sugar or caffeine as these can affect your heart rate and rhythm," she told AFP. No need to cut out snacking altogether. "But try and have some healthy choices in the house too -– try hummus and carrot sticks, a variety of colourful fruit and some popcorn, either plain or spiced with paprika, chili or rosemary, for a lower-fat, lower calorie alternative to crisps and roasted nuts," Ward recommended. And don't sit down for too long, she added. Get up and move around at least every 30 minutes for the sake of our heart.

Football World Cup can kill fans: Research

The 21st edition of football World Cup is about to start and the madness among fans has already begun. For all football fanatics, this absolutely crazy month arrives once in four years but apart from bitter-sweet memories, World Cup also leaves some totally bizarre moments.

Keeping all the seriousness apart, here are some insane incidents that have been embarrassing for the involved players even after many years.

Whether you love football or not, this list will surely make you giggle, so here are the videos, watch them:

Singer&nbsp;Diana Ross' epic fail in 1994 World Cup, a must watch:

The spectacular opening ceremony of football Wolrd Cup 1994 will be remembered for the blooper that American singer Diana Ross made while performing.

Seriously can't explain it in words, watch the video:

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I guess Brazil were desperate for the free-kick, watch the clever snatch:

What was that?

Angry? Or you did not understand the free-kick rules.

Jokes apart!&nbsp;Joseph Mwepu Ilunga came running out of his team's defensive wall and kicking the ball away. Although, he was subsequently cautioned for the same but the real reason is still unknown.

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'The Garry Lineker'&nbsp;wipes his arse on the field:

The former English footballer and the present stunning sports pundit, Garry Linker once pooped while playing during 1990 Wolrd Cup and got his arse wiped on the field and caught on camera so that the fans can relive the insane moment again and forever.

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An Oscar-winning performance by legendary Rivaldo, watch and rate his acting skills:

Please, Rivaldo, you must have tried Hollywood&nbsp;when you pulled the amazing stunt during&nbsp;World Cup 2002. You would have got Oscar for your performance.

Let us know, how many bones were broken?

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&nbsp;

Keeping all the seriousness apart, here are some insane incidents that have been embarrassing for the involved players even after many years

The 21st edition of football World Cup is about to start and the madness among fans has already begun. For all football fanatics, this absolutely crazy month arrives once in four years but apart from bitter-sweet memories, World Cup also leaves some totally bizarre moments. Keeping all the seriousness apart, here are some insane incidents that have been embarrassing for the involved players even after many years. Whether you love football or not, this list will surely make you giggle, so here are the videos, watch them: Singer Diana Ross' epic fail in 1994 World Cup, a must watch: The spectacular opening ceremony of football Wolrd Cup 1994 will be remembered for the blooper that American singer Diana Ross made while performing. Seriously can't explain it in words, watch the video: × I guess Brazil were desperate for the free-kick, watch the clever snatch: What was that? Angry? Or you did not understand the free-kick rules. Jokes apart! Joseph Mwepu Ilunga came running out of his team's defensive wall and kicking the ball away. Although, he was subsequently cautioned for the same but the real reason is still unknown. × 'The Garry Lineker' wipes his arse on the field: The former English footballer and the present stunning sports pundit, Garry Linker once pooped while playing during 1990 Wolrd Cup and got his arse wiped on the field and caught on camera so that the fans can relive the insane moment again and forever. × An Oscar-winning performance by legendary Rivaldo, watch and rate his acting skills: Please, Rivaldo, you must have tried Hollywood when you pulled the amazing stunt during World Cup 2002. You would have got Oscar for your performance. Let us know, how many bones were broken? ×

Why so serious? 4 hilarious incidents from the football World Cup

For Russian prostitutes, the World Cup and its testosterone-charged fans could have meant big business. But in reality many will stay away from host cities after warnings from police, the head of the country's only sex workers' group told AFP.

Irina Maslova said a police crackdown will make it impossible for the majority of workers in the illegal trade to operate during the tournament, despite shock headlines about hordes of fans looking to pay for sex.

"Most brothels are simply closing because of warnings from police... those who remain will do so at their own risk," said Maslova, whose organisation, Silver Rose, has members in more than 40 cities across the country.

Only those with a significant "krysha" (the Russian for "roof"), that sees them pay a percentage of their earnings to officials and police in return for protection, will be able to operate as usual.

Maria -- a worker in a "salon" in Saint Petersburg, one of Russia's 11 host cities -- told AFP she had heard of several other such businesses closing recently, most likely because they had failed to come to an arrangement with authorities.

President Vladimir Putin has described Russian prostitutes as the "best in the world" and the country was notorious for its sex industry in the 1990s.&nbsp;

But in recent years has seen a clean-up, with sex workers reporting reduced demand and being forced to slash prices after a financial crash in 2014.

"All the state organs and everyone associated with them will be harsher towards so-called law-breakers and undesirable elements" as Russia attempts to project the cleanest image possible during the World Cup, Maslova said.

Previous events such as the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics have seen police impose harsher fines on sex workers and in some cases imprison them for the duration of the competition, said the activist.

Maslova was held in solitary confinement herself for 48 hours when police launched a cleanup operation ahead of the 300-year anniversary of Saint Petersburg in 2003.&nbsp;

Other women were rounded up and dumped up to 60 kilometers outside the city, leading to the formation of the Silver Rose group to promote workers' rights.

"To avoid this danger, to protect their life, their health, their safety, sometimes their reputation, (sex workers) will leave because being in a city where big events are happening is simply not possible," she said.

English lessons for strippers

But those in the legal sex industry -- such as strippers and the owner of a newly opened sex doll hotel -- told AFP they were expecting the World Cup to bring a boost to a sector that has been badly hit in recent years.

"We're expecting a big influx of guests -- at minimum twice or three times more than usual," said Lucky Lee, the sequin-jacketed owner of the Golden Girls strip club in central Moscow.

"For our cabaret, it's very difficult in the current crisis," he said, pointing the finger at sanctions imposed by the West in the wake of Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.

"Before, salaries (for dancers) were usually between $5,000 to $10,000 a month," he said before one performer rehearsed an energetic routine centred around a football.&nbsp;

"Now it's $2,000 to $5,000. That's a really serious fall."

In a bid to add value for foreign punters, Golden Girls is laying on English lessons for its dancers in the run-up to the tournament.

Before opening on a recent weekend, three dancers practised introducing themselves using both their real and stage names in a strip-lit office off the club's golden entrance hall.

"They're general English lessons, we talk on various themes -- how to book a hotel, how to speak with guests, too," said Melanie, a 29-year-old dancer who has been working in the club on-and-off for the last six years.

"It would be good if there were more work over the tournament...everyone feels it (the crisis)."

Dmitry Alexandrov, who opened the first Russian franchise of the Spanish Lumidolls Sex Hotel last month -- where men pay 5,000 rubles ($80) for an hour in the company of a life-size silicone doll -- also said he was expecting increased business from football fans.

"Most supporters will be without their other halves," he said, flanked by busty Lolita and Alise, two of the Moscow hotel's most popular models.

"When we're talking about sex with dolls, it's not cheating for most couples."

The hotel -- where pop music pumped into the corridors just about covers the appreciative noises of punters in their rooms -- is planning to offer fans the option of dressing their chosen doll in the t-shirt of their national team.

Activist Maslova said she had been to the opening of the sex doll hotel and welcomed the fact it was advertising itself as Russia's "first legal brothel".

"It gets people thinking about the phrase," said Maslova, whose organisation aims for the full decriminalisation of sex work in the country.

Previous events such as the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics have seen police impose harsher fines on sex workers and in some cases imprison them for the duration of the competition

For Russian prostitutes, the World Cup and its testosterone-charged fans could have meant big business. But in reality many will stay away from host cities after warnings from police, the head of the country's only sex workers' group told AFP. Irina Maslova said a police crackdown will make it impossible for the majority of workers in the illegal trade to operate during the tournament, despite shock headlines about hordes of fans looking to pay for sex. "Most brothels are simply closing because of warnings from police... those who remain will do so at their own risk," said Maslova, whose organisation, Silver Rose, has members in more than 40 cities across the country. Only those with a significant "krysha" (the Russian for "roof"), that sees them pay a percentage of their earnings to officials and police in return for protection, will be able to operate as usual. Maria -- a worker in a "salon" in Saint Petersburg, one of Russia's 11 host cities -- told AFP she had heard of several other such businesses closing recently, most likely because they had failed to come to an arrangement with authorities. President Vladimir Putin has described Russian prostitutes as the "best in the world" and the country was notorious for its sex industry in the 1990s. But in recent years has seen a clean-up, with sex workers reporting reduced demand and being forced to slash prices after a financial crash in 2014. "All the state organs and everyone associated with them will be harsher towards so-called law-breakers and undesirable elements" as Russia attempts to project the cleanest image possible during the World Cup, Maslova said. Previous events such as the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics have seen police impose harsher fines on sex workers and in some cases imprison them for the duration of the competition, said the activist. Maslova was held in solitary confinement herself for 48 hours when police launched a cleanup operation ahead of the 300-year anniversary of Saint Petersburg in 2003. Other women were rounded up and dumped up to 60 kilometers outside the city, leading to the formation of the Silver Rose group to promote workers' rights. "To avoid this danger, to protect their life, their health, their safety, sometimes their reputation, (sex workers) will leave because being in a city where big events are happening is simply not possible," she said. English lessons for strippers But those in the legal sex industry -- such as strippers and the owner of a newly opened sex doll hotel -- told AFP they were expecting the World Cup to bring a boost to a sector that has been badly hit in recent years. "We're expecting a big influx of guests -- at minimum twice or three times more than usual," said Lucky Lee, the sequin-jacketed owner of the Golden Girls strip club in central Moscow. "For our cabaret, it's very difficult in the current crisis," he said, pointing the finger at sanctions imposed by the West in the wake of Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. "Before, salaries (for dancers) were usually between $5,000 to $10,000 a month," he said before one performer rehearsed an energetic routine centred around a football. "Now it's $2,000 to $5,000. That's a really serious fall." In a bid to add value for foreign punters, Golden Girls is laying on English lessons for its dancers in the run-up to the tournament. Before opening on a recent weekend, three dancers practised introducing themselves using both their real and stage names in a strip-lit office off the club's golden entrance hall. "They're general English lessons, we talk on various themes -- how to book a hotel, how to speak with guests, too," said Melanie, a 29-year-old dancer who has been working in the club on-and-off for the last six years. "It would be good if there were more work over the tournament...everyone feels it (the crisis)." Dmitry Alexandrov, who opened the first Russian franchise of the Spanish Lumidolls Sex Hotel last month -- where men pay 5,000 rubles ($80) for an hour in the company of a life-size silicone doll -- also said he was expecting increased business from football fans. "Most supporters will be without their other halves," he said, flanked by busty Lolita and Alise, two of the Moscow hotel's most popular models. "When we're talking about sex with dolls, it's not cheating for most couples." The hotel -- where pop music pumped into the corridors just about covers the appreciative noises of punters in their rooms -- is planning to offer fans the option of dressing their chosen doll in the t-shirt of their national team. Activist Maslova said she had been to the opening of the sex doll hotel and welcomed the fact it was advertising itself as Russia's "first legal brothel". "It gets people thinking about the phrase," said Maslova, whose organisation aims for the full decriminalisation of sex work in the country.

Here is how the football World Cup will affect the sex industry in Russia

France have appeared at 14 World Cups, claiming their best result when they won the title on home soil in 1998 led by then captain and current coach Didier Deschamps, as Les Bleus beat Brazil 3-0 in the final at the Stade de France.

After&nbsp;finishing third in 1958, France had to wait until the 1980s to become title contenders once more, twice falling at the semi-final stage to West Germany in 1982 and four years later.

France reached the final again in 2006, inspired by talismanic midfielder Zinedine Zidane, who scored and was then sent off in the title match after his remarkable head butt on Marco Materazzi as Italy won on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

<hr />
Coach: Didier Deschamps

Deschamps is France's most decorated player at club and national team level, having captained the team to the 1998 World Cup and the Euro 2000 titles.

He also won the Champions League twice, with Olympique de Marseille and Juventus as a steely holding midfielder, which earned him the nickname 'water carrier' by Eric Cantona.

He became France coach in 2012 when he succeeded his former France team mate Laurent Blanc, taking Les Bleus to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup and the Euro 2016 final at home.

Prior to his international managerial stint, he gained promotion to Serie A with Juventus, took Monaco to the Champions League final and led Marseille to their first title in 18 years.

Deschamps started his playing career at Nantes and also represented Chelsea, Valencia and Bordeaux. His performances and his qualities as team leader earned the 49-year-old 103 caps for France.

<hr />
Key players:

Antoine Griezmann: Griezmann's stellar campaign with Atletico Madrid has seen him strongly linked with a move to Barcelona during the close season. After scoring 19 goals from 30 La Liga games and six in 13 European ties, the striker heads to Russia in the form of his life.

Paul Pogba: France's chances could largely depend on Pogba's form after the Manchester United midfielder endured a patchy season under coach Jose Mourinho, who was not afraid to drop him following poor performances. Deschamps will also be prepared to keep Pogba on the bench if his performances waver in Russia.

Olivier Giroud: Giroud has often been dismissed by fans as too clumsy and one-dimensional to lead the France attack yet the Chelsea striker, Europe's most prolific in the air over the past three seasons, has always saved some of his best performances for the national side.

<hr />
Form guide:

France have conceded six goals in their last three games, including in a 3-2 home defeat in a friendly against Colombia, indicating that Les Bleus have a problem in defence. They did bounce back with a convincing 3-1 away win against Russia but Deschamps will be hoping centre backs Samuel Umtiti and Raphael Varane are on their best form when the competition starts.

<hr />
How they qualified:

In a group featuring Sweden and the Netherlands, France were strong favourites and they progressed in a relatively straightforward manner with seven wins, two draws and a defeat, scoring 18 and conceding six goals.

<hr />
Prospects:

France should have little trouble advancing from Group C where they will face Australia, Denmark and Peru. They will, however, be wary of Peru as the last time they played a South American side (Colombia), they lost. If they qualify for the last 16, they will take on one of the top-two finishers in Group D, which features Argentina, Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria. Should they make the quarter-finals, Les Bleus could face either Spain or Portugal, who beat them in the Euro 2016 final.

<hr />
France's fixtures

June 16

03:30 PM | France vs Australia | Kazan Arena, Kazan

June 21

08:30 PM | France vs Peru | Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg

June 26

07:30 PM | South Korea vs Germany | Kazan Arena, Kazan

<hr />
Squad

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Alphone Areola (Paris St Germain), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur), Steve Mandanda (Olympique de Marseille)

Defenders:&nbsp;Lucas Hernandez (Atletico Madrid), Presnel Kimpembe (Paris St Germain), Benjamin Pavard (VfB Stuttgart), Benjamin Mendy (Manchester City), Djibril Sidibe (Monaco), Adil Rami (Olympique de Marseille), Samuel Umtiti (Barcelona), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)

Midfielders:&nbsp;Blaise Matuidi (Juventus), N'Golo Kante (Chelsea), Steven N'Zonzi (Sevilla), Paul Pogba (Manchester United), Corentin Tolisso (Bayern Munich)

Strikers:&nbsp;Olivier Giroud (Chelsea), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Thomas Lemar (Monaco), Nabil Fekir (Olympique Lyonnais), Florian Thauvin (Olympique de Marseille), Ousmane Dembele (Barcelona)

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_7.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_7.jpg" width="770" />

&nbsp;

France have appeared at 14 World Cups, claiming their best result when they won the title on home soil in 1998

France have appeared at 14 World Cups, claiming their best result when they won the title on home soil in 1998 led by then captain and current coach Didier Deschamps, as Les Bleus beat Brazil 3-0 in the final at the Stade de France. After finishing third in 1958, France had to wait until the 1980s to become title contenders once more, twice falling at the semi-final stage to West Germany in 1982 and four years later. France reached the final again in 2006, inspired by talismanic midfielder Zinedine Zidane, who scored and was then sent off in the title match after his remarkable head butt on Marco Materazzi as Italy won on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Coach: Didier Deschamps Deschamps is France's most decorated player at club and national team level, having captained the team to the 1998 World Cup and the Euro 2000 titles. He also won the Champions League twice, with Olympique de Marseille and Juventus as a steely holding midfielder, which earned him the nickname 'water carrier' by Eric Cantona. He became France coach in 2012 when he succeeded his former France team mate Laurent Blanc, taking Les Bleus to the quarter-finals of the 2014 World Cup and the Euro 2016 final at home. Prior to his international managerial stint, he gained promotion to Serie A with Juventus, took Monaco to the Champions League final and led Marseille to their first title in 18 years. Deschamps started his playing career at Nantes and also represented Chelsea, Valencia and Bordeaux. His performances and his qualities as team leader earned the 49-year-old 103 caps for France. Key players: Antoine Griezmann: Griezmann's stellar campaign with Atletico Madrid has seen him strongly linked with a move to Barcelona during the close season. After scoring 19 goals from 30 La Liga games and six in 13 European ties, the striker heads to Russia in the form of his life. Paul Pogba: France's chances could largely depend on Pogba's form after the Manchester United midfielder endured a patchy season under coach Jose Mourinho, who was not afraid to drop him following poor performances. Deschamps will also be prepared to keep Pogba on the bench if his performances waver in Russia. Olivier Giroud: Giroud has often been dismissed by fans as too clumsy and one-dimensional to lead the France attack yet the Chelsea striker, Europe's most prolific in the air over the past three seasons, has always saved some of his best performances for the national side. Form guide: France have conceded six goals in their last three games, including in a 3-2 home defeat in a friendly against Colombia, indicating that Les Bleus have a problem in defence. They did bounce back with a convincing 3-1 away win against Russia but Deschamps will be hoping centre backs Samuel Umtiti and Raphael Varane are on their best form when the competition starts. How they qualified: In a group featuring Sweden and the Netherlands, France were strong favourites and they progressed in a relatively straightforward manner with seven wins, two draws and a defeat, scoring 18 and conceding six goals. Prospects: France should have little trouble advancing from Group C where they will face Australia, Denmark and Peru. They will, however, be wary of Peru as the last time they played a South American side (Colombia), they lost. If they qualify for the last 16, they will take on one of the top-two finishers in Group D, which features Argentina, Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria. Should they make the quarter-finals, Les Bleus could face either Spain or Portugal, who beat them in the Euro 2016 final. France's fixtures June 16 03:30 PM | France vs Australia | Kazan Arena, Kazan June 21 08:30 PM | France vs Peru | Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg June 26 07:30 PM | South Korea vs Germany | Kazan Arena, Kazan Squad Goalkeepers: Alphone Areola (Paris St Germain), Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur), Steve Mandanda (Olympique de Marseille) Defenders: Lucas Hernandez (Atletico Madrid), Presnel Kimpembe (Paris St Germain), Benjamin Pavard (VfB Stuttgart), Benjamin Mendy (Manchester City), Djibril Sidibe (Monaco), Adil Rami (Olympique de Marseille), Samuel Umtiti (Barcelona), Raphael Varane (Real Madrid) Midfielders: Blaise Matuidi (Juventus), N'Golo Kante (Chelsea), Steven N'Zonzi (Sevilla), Paul Pogba (Manchester United), Corentin Tolisso (Bayern Munich) Strikers: Olivier Giroud (Chelsea), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Kylian Mbappe (Paris St Germain), Thomas Lemar (Monaco), Nabil Fekir (Olympique Lyonnais), Florian Thauvin (Olympique de Marseille), Ousmane Dembele (Barcelona)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of France

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

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

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

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

Russia&nbsp;is "100 per cent&nbsp;ready" to host the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup,&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;president Gianni&nbsp;Infantino said on Wednesday as he addressed concerns about racism, human rights and security in the host country a week before the tournament begins.

Russia&nbsp;will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi and&nbsp;Infantino&nbsp;believes that supporters are in for a real treat.

"I think we can say that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;is 100 per cent&nbsp;ready&nbsp;and the whole&nbsp;world&nbsp;will actually see it when we kick off on June 14 with&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;and Saudi Arabia in the Luzhniki Stadium,"&nbsp;Infantino&nbsp;said in a video interview.

"Everyone will be able to witness how beautiful the stadiums are, how welcoming the country is, how the organisation and the preparations will work out. It'll be a great experience."

Russia&nbsp;has faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the tournament over issues including fan and team security as well as racism at matches.

FIFA&nbsp;fined&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;30,000 Swiss francs ($30,422) last month for discriminatory chants by fans after racist abuse was directed at French players during a friendly in St Petersburg in March.

"I wouldn't say that I am concerned about discrimination, human rights or security but obviously we take this very, very seriously and we've taken appropriate measures," he added.

"For the first time we have been checking the construction of stadiums, the sites to make sure conditions for the workers are correct... concrete progress has been made in terms of human rights and the way we deal with human rights questions."

Infantino&nbsp;promised a "safe environment" for fans travelling to the event.

"The&nbsp;Russian authorities are aware of the security situation in such a big event," he said. "They are working very hard to prepare in cooperation with police authorities of all governments in the world... to be fully&nbsp;ready&nbsp;to tackle any potential issue.

"Every fan that is coming to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;will be&nbsp;welcome&nbsp;in a safe environment to celebrate. If anyone is thinking to come to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;to create trouble, he better stay home."

Russia will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow

Russia is "100 per cent ready" to host the World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday as he addressed concerns about racism, human rights and security in the host country a week before the tournament begins. Russia will host the tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 12 stadiums spread across cities including Moscow, St Petersburg and Sochi and Infantino believes that supporters are in for a real treat. "I think we can say that Russia is 100 per cent ready and the whole world will actually see it when we kick off on June 14 with Russia and Saudi Arabia in the Luzhniki Stadium," Infantino said in a video interview. "Everyone will be able to witness how beautiful the stadiums are, how welcoming the country is, how the organisation and the preparations will work out. It'll be a great experience." Russia has faced scrutiny in the lead-up to the tournament over issues including fan and team security as well as racism at matches. FIFA fined Russia 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,422) last month for discriminatory chants by fans after racist abuse was directed at French players during a friendly in St Petersburg in March. "I wouldn't say that I am concerned about discrimination, human rights or security but obviously we take this very, very seriously and we've taken appropriate measures," he added. "For the first time we have been checking the construction of stadiums, the sites to make sure conditions for the workers are correct... concrete progress has been made in terms of human rights and the way we deal with human rights questions." Infantino promised a "safe environment" for fans travelling to the event. "The Russian authorities are aware of the security situation in such a big event," he said. "They are working very hard to prepare in cooperation with police authorities of all governments in the world... to be fully ready to tackle any potential issue. "Every fan that is coming to Russia will be welcome in a safe environment to celebrate. If anyone is thinking to come to Russia to create trouble, he better stay home."

FIFA World Cup: Russia ready to welcome the world, says FIFA chief Gianni Infantino

Egypt&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nigeria&nbsp;continued their recent poor form in&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event.

Belgium eased past&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week.

Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime.

Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia.

Egypt&nbsp;was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector&nbsp;Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15.

Nigeria&nbsp;turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup.

Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.

Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated.

The&nbsp;Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week.

Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King.

Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half.

Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played.

But Palestinian football officials praised&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa.

“The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah.

Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week

Egypt and Nigeria continued their recent poor form in World Cup warm-up games on Wednesday ahead of their bids to become the first African side to reach the semi-finals of the global showpiece event. Belgium eased past Egypt 3-0 in Brussels to extend the north African side's winless streak since qualifying for the tournament in Russia starting next week. Eden Hazard provided the sparkle as Belgium dominated. The Chelsea forward set up Romelu Lukalu for the first goal and netted the second himself before halftime. Marouane Fellaini added a third in stoppage-time to complete a strong performance by the hosts, who underlined their status as one of the favourites in Russia. Egypt was missing injured forward Mohamed Salah but their coach Hector Cuper said his talisman might be fit for the opening Group A game against Uruguay on June 15. Nigeria turned in a disappointing performance in their final tune-up, losing 1-0 to the Czech Republic who failed to qualify for the World Cup. Tomas Kalas gave the Czechs a deserved lead in the 25th minute in Schwechat, near the Austrian capital of Vienna, after he fired home a rebound following a corner to beat sprawlingNigerian goalkeeper Francis Uzoho. Nigeria, who have lost three of their last four games and drawn the other, kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 16, but they looked disinterested during the opening half as the Czechs dominated. The Nigerians stepped up the pace in the second half – briefly interrupted by a rain delay – and created a few chances but could not find the net against a Czech side who conceded four goals against Australia last week. Also playing on Wednesday were Panama, whose preparations ended on a low note as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat by Norway after an early goal by Joshua King. Worryingly for the Panamanians, who face Belgium, England and Tunisia in Group G in their first World Cup finals appearance, they struggled to deal with Norway's physical power, but they did create decent chances in the second half. Earlier on Wednesday, Israel demanded that FIFA investigate what it said were threats against Argentina players that forced them to cancel a match in Jerusalem, including Palestinian calls to burn replica shirts of Lionel Messi if he played. But Palestinian football officials praised World Cup-bound Argentina and their captain Messi for calling off the friendly, which Israel had moved to Jerusalem from the coastal city of Haifa. “The Israelis tried to use Messi and those stars from Argentina, and I would like to thank them and appreciate their decision,” Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub told a news conference in the West Bank city of Ramallah. Israeli Sports Minister Miri Regev, who pushed for the game to be moved from Haifa to Jerusalem, dismissed accusations that her demand had caused its cancellation and said Messi, his teammates and his family had been threatened by “terror elements”.

FIFA World Cup: Egypt, Nigeria continue to splutter in World Cup warm-ups

Few national teams have experienced the ups and downs of&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;over the last five years but the good news for fans of the "selecao" is that they are ascendant as Russia approaches.

Brazil&nbsp;won the 2013 Confederations Cup, hammering an all-conquering Spain side 3-0 in the final.

A year later they were humiliated 7-1 at home by Germany in the World Cup semi-finals and early exits at the Copa America in 2015 and 2016 deepened the gloom.

But the improvement since Tite took over as coach in June 2016 has been remarkable and&nbsp;Brazil are joint-favourites&nbsp;to win a record sixth World Cup.

Much of that credit goes to the wily coach, who has instilled a sense of purpose in a team that looked lost under his predecessor Dunga.

The central defence has been shored up with Marquinhos and Miranda, and&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;under Tite have conceded just five goals in 19 games.

The midfield has a balance of solid and creative, with Casemiro providing the backbone, Paulinho capable of going box-to-box, and Renato Augusto offering some spark.

Up front Tite has an embarrassment of riches, with Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho the likely starters with able back-up on the bench from speedy wingers Willian and Douglas Costa.

Those players helped&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;to become the first team to qualify for Russia with a record string of nine successive wins, but they must take care to rein in any euphoria.

Gremio centre-half Pedro Geromel and Corinthians pair Cassio and Fagner were the surprise inclusions in&nbsp;Brazil's 23-man World Cup squad.

Gremio defender Geromel has just two caps but was outstanding in leading the Porto Alegre side to the Copa Libertadores last season.

The former Gremio and Corinthians coach, who was tasked with revamping the country's reputation after their 7-1 mauling by Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final, said he had not decided who will fill the void left by Dani Alves. The defender was ruled out last week with a knee injury.

He selected Fagner of Corinthians and Danilo of Manchester City to replace the Paris St Germain right back and said both were up to the task.

Left back Filipe Luis, who recently returned to the Atletico Madrid side after fracturing his tibia, was selected as back up to Marcelo.

PSG striker Neymar, who was out with an injured foot since Feb. 25, was also named in the squad and showed that he is likely to feature after scoring in his comeback match for&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;in a friendly against Croatia last Sunday (June 3).

Brazil won the 2013 Confederations Cup, hammering an all-conquering Spain side 3-0 in the final

Few national teams have experienced the ups and downs of Brazil over the last five years but the good news for fans of the "selecao" is that they are ascendant as Russia approaches. Brazil won the 2013 Confederations Cup, hammering an all-conquering Spain side 3-0 in the final. A year later they were humiliated 7-1 at home by Germany in the World Cup semi-finals and early exits at the Copa America in 2015 and 2016 deepened the gloom. But the improvement since Tite took over as coach in June 2016 has been remarkable and Brazil are joint-favourites to win a record sixth World Cup. Much of that credit goes to the wily coach, who has instilled a sense of purpose in a team that looked lost under his predecessor Dunga. The central defence has been shored up with Marquinhos and Miranda, and Brazil under Tite have conceded just five goals in 19 games. The midfield has a balance of solid and creative, with Casemiro providing the backbone, Paulinho capable of going box-to-box, and Renato Augusto offering some spark. Up front Tite has an embarrassment of riches, with Neymar, Gabriel Jesus and Philippe Coutinho the likely starters with able back-up on the bench from speedy wingers Willian and Douglas Costa. Those players helped Brazil to become the first team to qualify for Russia with a record string of nine successive wins, but they must take care to rein in any euphoria. Gremio centre-half Pedro Geromel and Corinthians pair Cassio and Fagner were the surprise inclusions in Brazil's 23-man World Cup squad. Gremio defender Geromel has just two caps but was outstanding in leading the Porto Alegre side to the Copa Libertadores last season. The former Gremio and Corinthians coach, who was tasked with revamping the country's reputation after their 7-1 mauling by Germany in the 2014 World Cup semi-final, said he had not decided who will fill the void left by Dani Alves. The defender was ruled out last week with a knee injury. He selected Fagner of Corinthians and Danilo of Manchester City to replace the Paris St Germain right back and said both were up to the task. Left back Filipe Luis, who recently returned to the Atletico Madrid side after fracturing his tibia, was selected as back up to Marcelo. PSG striker Neymar, who was out with an injured foot since Feb. 25, was also named in the squad and showed that he is likely to feature after scoring in his comeback match for Brazil in a friendly against Croatia last Sunday (June 3).

FIFA World Cup 2018: Brazil on the up as the World Cup nears

While moribund in Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State (IS) group poses a real threat to Russia's World Cup that must be taken seriously, security experts warn.

Alarm bells have been ringing since disturbing photo-montages began to appear on social media late last year, the work of the IS propaganda arm known as the Wafa Media Foundation.

Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions.

Lying on the ground, with knives up against their throats or dying in flames, the message accompanying them was blunt.

"You will not enjoy security until we live it in Muslim countries," the posts said.

Brian Glyn Williams and Robert Troy Souza, authors of a report published last month by West Point's Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) on the dangers IS poses to the June 14 to July 15 World Cup, said the propaganda campaign unfurled by IS was "unprecedented".

"In just the past few years, there have been numerous successful terror attacks or thwarted plots in Russia by terrorists linked to or inspired by the Islamic state," they wrote.

"This suggests the group may have the capacity to launch attacks in Russia during the World Cup."

Lone wolves

These attacks, said the US experts, can be either carried out by "lone wolves" -- assailants who act on their own after being inculcated by IS propaganda -- or by local jihadists.

The latter include Russians and people from Chechnya and the rest of the Caucasus and central Asia, two regions with established links to IS stretching back for over a decade.

They mostly comprise fighters who had recently returned from Syria and Iraq after winding down their campaign to create an ephemeral Islamic "caliphate" in the Middle East.

Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that around 8,500 jihadists from Russia and the former Soviet central Asia have joined the ranks of IS and other jihadist groups in the region.

The exact number of those who have managed to slip through anti-terror services' hands and safely return to their homelands is unclear.

But experts are certain that prior to its territorial rout, IS instructed some of its fighters to go back and form sleeper cells that could be called upon when needed -- such as during a World Cup.

Even if Russia had not intervened in Syria on President Bashar al-Assad's behalf, the world's most watched event would still have been a target of jihadists, said Pascal Boniface, director of the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, who specialises in geopolitics and football.

"The threat of terror now exists for all international sports competitions. They attract the cameras and, therefore, the terrorists," Boniface said.

"Russia's intervention in Syria is an aggravating factor, but it is not what created this problem," said the French analyst.

"There would still be a terror threat without it."

Soft targets

Even before Russia, security measures at the Euro 2016 football championship in France, as well as the 2014 London and 2016 Rio Summer Games were already draconian.

In March 2016, just three months before Euro 2016 was due to kick off, France's then prime minister Manuel Valls announced the arrest in the Paris region of a hardened jihadist who "surely had the Euro in his sights".

"Today, whenever you have a global sports event, the biggest part of the budget goes to security," said Boniface.

Whether they are followed by an attack or not, the act of posting threats online with just a few clicks costs nothing for IS and its sympathisers.

Yet these are followed by security operations that could run to tens and even hundreds of millions of dollars.

With 64 matches played across 12 stadiums in 11 cities spanning the European part of Russia, the World Cup offers an abundance of potential places to strike, CTC warns.

"While the World Cup venues are hard targets that are set to be protected by multiple layers of security, there will be no shortage of soft targets that terrorists could hit," it says.

In Moscow, the authorities are trying to strike a reassuring tone.

They point out that the 2014 Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort of Sochi were staged on the edge of the north Caucasus and still passed off without a hitch.

"Our security operation is taking into account all types of possible dangers and risks," World Cup organising committee chief Alexei Sorokin told AFP.

"Everything is under control and I hope that we will find the right balance between comfort and security, without tilting to one side or the other."

Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions

While moribund in Syria and Iraq, the Islamic State (IS) group poses a real threat to Russia's World Cup that must be taken seriously, security experts warn. Alarm bells have been ringing since disturbing photo-montages began to appear on social media late last year, the work of the IS propaganda arm known as the Wafa Media Foundation. Crude and explicit, they showed superstars such as Lionel Messi and Neymar dressed in the frighteningly familiar orange suits used for videotaped executions. Lying on the ground, with knives up against their throats or dying in flames, the message accompanying them was blunt. "You will not enjoy security until we live it in Muslim countries," the posts said. Brian Glyn Williams and Robert Troy Souza, authors of a report published last month by West Point's Combating Terrorism Center (CTC) on the dangers IS poses to the June 14 to July 15 World Cup, said the propaganda campaign unfurled by IS was "unprecedented". "In just the past few years, there have been numerous successful terror attacks or thwarted plots in Russia by terrorists linked to or inspired by the Islamic state," they wrote. "This suggests the group may have the capacity to launch attacks in Russia during the World Cup." Lone wolves These attacks, said the US experts, can be either carried out by "lone wolves" -- assailants who act on their own after being inculcated by IS propaganda -- or by local jihadists. The latter include Russians and people from Chechnya and the rest of the Caucasus and central Asia, two regions with established links to IS stretching back for over a decade. They mostly comprise fighters who had recently returned from Syria and Iraq after winding down their campaign to create an ephemeral Islamic "caliphate" in the Middle East. Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates that around 8,500 jihadists from Russia and the former Soviet central Asia have joined the ranks of IS and other jihadist groups in the region. The exact number of those who have managed to slip through anti-terror services' hands and safely return to their homelands is unclear. But experts are certain that prior to its territorial rout, IS instructed some of its fighters to go back and form sleeper cells that could be called upon when needed -- such as during a World Cup. Even if Russia had not intervened in Syria on President Bashar al-Assad's behalf, the world's most watched event would still have been a target of jihadists, said Pascal Boniface, director of the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, who specialises in geopolitics and football. "The threat of terror now exists for all international sports competitions. They attract the cameras and, therefore, the terrorists," Boniface said. "Russia's intervention in Syria is an aggravating factor, but it is not what created this problem," said the French analyst. "There would still be a terror threat without it." Soft targets Even before Russia, security measures at the Euro 2016 football championship in France, as well as the 2014 London and 2016 Rio Summer Games were already draconian. In March 2016, just three months before Euro 2016 was due to kick off, France's then prime minister Manuel Valls announced the arrest in the Paris region of a hardened jihadist who "surely had the Euro in his sights". "Today, whenever you have a global sports event, the biggest part of the budget goes to security," said Boniface. Whether they are followed by an attack or not, the act of posting threats online with just a few clicks costs nothing for IS and its sympathisers. Yet these are followed by security operations that could run to tens and even hundreds of millions of dollars. With 64 matches played across 12 stadiums in 11 cities spanning the European part of Russia, the World Cup offers an abundance of potential places to strike, CTC warns. "While the World Cup venues are hard targets that are set to be protected by multiple layers of security, there will be no shortage of soft targets that terrorists could hit," it says. In Moscow, the authorities are trying to strike a reassuring tone. They point out that the 2014 Winter Olympics in the Black Sea resort of Sochi were staged on the edge of the north Caucasus and still passed off without a hitch. "Our security operation is taking into account all types of possible dangers and risks," World Cup organising committee chief Alexei Sorokin told AFP. "Everything is under control and I hope that we will find the right balance between comfort and security, without tilting to one side or the other."

Islamic State threat hangs over Russia World Cup

FIFA World Cup 2018 is just a week away and the frenzy for the game is already touching its peak. Hosts Russia will kick off the 21st FIFA World Cup against Saudi Arabia in Moscow, while defending champions Germany will start against Mexico. But are you aware that there are certain regulations for a football to be used in the World Cup.

In March 1995, the International Football Association Board decided to adopt compulsory testing and marking for footballs to be used in FIFA and Confederation Matches.

The Law II of the game requires that footballs eligible for FIFA and&nbsp 
Confederation Matches will have to meet minimum standards. All balls used in international matches have to bear either a FIFA quality mark (FIFA QUALITY PRO or FIFA QUALITY) or the "IMS – International Match Standard" mark.

These logos indicate that a ball has been officially tested and found to be in compliance with specific technical requirements, different for each logo and additional to the minimum specifications stipulated in Law 2.

The list of additional requirements specific to each of the logos must be approved by the International Football Association Board.

To gain the top FIFA Quality Pro-mark, a ball has to pass seven tests to be fit for a game like World Cup, which are as follows:

1. Circumference: The rules state that ball circumference should be between 68.0 and 70.0 cm for the 'FIFA-inspected' designation, and between 68.5 and 69.5cm for the 'FIFA-approved' designation.

2. Shape and size: The size of a football is roughly 22 cm (8.65 inches) in diameter for a regulation size '5 ball.' &nbspIt is shot 2000 times against a steel plate and during the process, the maximum increase in circumference should be 1.5 cm.

3. Water absorption: The ball is compressed 250 times into a water bath. A ball that absorbs too much water will become heavier and therefore will react differently. The average water uptake of the initial weight of the tested balls is 15 per cent, while the maximum water uptake per ball should not exceed 20 per cent.

4. Sphericity: It is the measure of how closely the shape of an object approaches that of a mathematically perfect sphere. The apparatus used is the same as that used for determining the circumference. The conditioned balls are inflated to a test pressure of 0.8 bar. The maximum change should take place at 1.5 per cent for the approved ones and 2 per cent for the inspected balls.

5. Weight: &nbspThe ball's weight must be in the range of 410 to 450 grams (14 to 16 oz). Three sample balls are weighed three times each and the average value is then taken for finalise the actual size of the ball to be played in the tournament. The ball's weight is measured at the beginning of the match. A ball may weigh more than 16 oz. During the match if it absorbs moisture from wet grass or if dirt collects between the panels and seams.

6. Loss of pressure: The football should not lose pressure over time, thereby remaining playable. The ball is inflated to a determined pressure and should not deflate over 20 hours. The maximum loss of pressure for the approved should be 201 per cent and the maximum for the inspected balls should be 25 per cent.

7. Rebound: Then it is the rebound process where the testing assesses the uniform bounce of the ball. The ball is dropped ten times onto a steel plate from a height of two meters. If the Test is conducted at a room temperature of 20 degree Celsius, the bounce back should be 120-165 cm while at 5 degree Celsius the rebound should be minimum 120 cm. The maximum difference between lowest and highest rebound per ball tested should be 10cm. &nbsp

Once these seven tests are successfully completed within the predefined strict ranges, the tested FIFA world cup football obtains the FIFA quality pro mark.

To gain the top FIFA Quality Pro-mark, a ball has to pass seven tests to be fit for a game like World Cup

FIFA World Cup 2018 is just a week away and the frenzy for the game is already touching its peak. Hosts Russia will kick off the 21st FIFA World Cup against Saudi Arabia in Moscow, while defending champions Germany will start against Mexico. But are you aware that there are certain regulations for a football to be used in the World Cup. In March 1995, the International Football Association Board decided to adopt compulsory testing and marking for footballs to be used in FIFA and Confederation Matches. The Law II of the game requires that footballs eligible for FIFA and Confederation Matches will have to meet minimum standards. All balls used in international matches have to bear either a FIFA quality mark (FIFA QUALITY PRO or FIFA QUALITY) or the "IMS – International Match Standard" mark. These logos indicate that a ball has been officially tested and found to be in compliance with specific technical requirements, different for each logo and additional to the minimum specifications stipulated in Law 2. The list of additional requirements specific to each of the logos must be approved by the International Football Association Board. To gain the top FIFA Quality Pro-mark, a ball has to pass seven tests to be fit for a game like World Cup, which are as follows: 1. Circumference: The rules state that ball circumference should be between 68.0 and 70.0 cm for the 'FIFA-inspected' designation, and between 68.5 and 69.5cm for the 'FIFA-approved' designation. 2. Shape and size: The size of a football is roughly 22 cm (8.65 inches) in diameter for a regulation size '5 ball.' &nbspIt is shot 2000 times against a steel plate and during the process, the maximum increase in circumference should be 1.5 cm. 3. Water absorption: The ball is compressed 250 times into a water bath. A ball that absorbs too much water will become heavier and therefore will react differently. The average water uptake of the initial weight of the tested balls is 15 per cent, while the maximum water uptake per ball should not exceed 20 per cent. 4. Sphericity: It is the measure of how closely the shape of an object approaches that of a mathematically perfect sphere. The apparatus used is the same as that used for determining the circumference. The conditioned balls are inflated to a test pressure of 0.8 bar. The maximum change should take place at 1.5 per cent for the approved ones and 2 per cent for the inspected balls. 5. Weight: &nbspThe ball's weight must be in the range of 410 to 450 grams (14 to 16 oz). Three sample balls are weighed three times each and the average value is then taken for finalise the actual size of the ball to be played in the tournament. The ball's weight is measured at the beginning of the match. A ball may weigh more than 16 oz. During the match if it absorbs moisture from wet grass or if dirt collects between the panels and seams. 6. Loss of pressure: The football should not lose pressure over time, thereby remaining playable. The ball is inflated to a determined pressure and should not deflate over 20 hours. The maximum loss of pressure for the approved should be 201 per cent and the maximum for the inspected balls should be 25 per cent. 7. Rebound: Then it is the rebound process where the testing assesses the uniform bounce of the ball. The ball is dropped ten times onto a steel plate from a height of two meters. If the Test is conducted at a room temperature of 20 degree Celsius, the bounce back should be 120-165 cm while at 5 degree Celsius the rebound should be minimum 120 cm. The maximum difference between lowest and highest rebound per ball tested should be 10cm. Once these seven tests are successfully completed within the predefined strict ranges, the tested FIFA world cup football obtains the FIFA quality pro mark.

FIFA World Cup: 7 mandatory tests world cup 'ball' undergoes

Croatia's national soccer team have started the last phase of their build-up for the June 14-July 15 World Cup tournament in Russia this week.

Although the star-studded team, captained by Real Madrid's Luka Modric and featuring the likes of Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic, Juventus' Mario Mandzukic, and Liverpool's Dejan Lovren, suffered a 2-0 defeat last Sunday (June 3) in a friendly against Brazil at Anfield, the players are confident that this team might reach the knockout stage for the first time since the nation's tournament debut in 1998.

"Well, as I said, we will fight to the end. We have quality, we have experience, we just need to show that on the pitch," Lovren told reporters in Rijeka on Tuesday (June 5).

He was one of two Croatians who played the Champions League final last month, the other being Modric, who won his fourth title with Real Madrid in Europe's top club competition.

But Lovren added that an exhausting season behind them is not a problem, as playing in the World Cup for one's national team is an experience any player dreams of.

This will be Croatia's fifth appearance in the tournament, and even though they were a surprise of the tournament in 1998 when they finished third, they failed to progress out of the group stage in 2002, 2006, and 2014.

Manager Zlatko Dalic, who took over the team last October, had announced on Monday (June 4) the final 23-man squad that he would take to Russia, dropping Club Brugge defender Matej Mitrovic for lack of fitness and picking Red Bull Salzburg's young Duje Caleta-Car instead.

After their return from Liverpool, the Croatian squad will continue training in the Adriatic city of Rijeka before leaving for the eastern city of Osijek to play Senegal in a friendly on Friday (June 8).

The match is meant to prepare them for their opening World Cup match against Nigeria on June 16 in Kaliningrad, before facing Argentina on June 21 in Nizhny Novgorod and Iceland on June 26 in Rostov-on-Don.

Lovren said that an exhausting season behind them is not a problem, as playing in the World Cup for one's national team is an experience any player dreams of

Croatia's national soccer team have started the last phase of their build-up for the June 14-July 15 World Cup tournament in Russia this week. Although the star-studded team, captained by Real Madrid's Luka Modric and featuring the likes of Barcelona's Ivan Rakitic, Juventus' Mario Mandzukic, and Liverpool's Dejan Lovren, suffered a 2-0 defeat last Sunday (June 3) in a friendly against Brazil at Anfield, the players are confident that this team might reach the knockout stage for the first time since the nation's tournament debut in 1998. "Well, as I said, we will fight to the end. We have quality, we have experience, we just need to show that on the pitch," Lovren told reporters in Rijeka on Tuesday (June 5). He was one of two Croatians who played the Champions League final last month, the other being Modric, who won his fourth title with Real Madrid in Europe's top club competition. But Lovren added that an exhausting season behind them is not a problem, as playing in the World Cup for one's national team is an experience any player dreams of. This will be Croatia's fifth appearance in the tournament, and even though they were a surprise of the tournament in 1998 when they finished third, they failed to progress out of the group stage in 2002, 2006, and 2014. Manager Zlatko Dalic, who took over the team last October, had announced on Monday (June 4) the final 23-man squad that he would take to Russia, dropping Club Brugge defender Matej Mitrovic for lack of fitness and picking Red Bull Salzburg's young Duje Caleta-Car instead. After their return from Liverpool, the Croatian squad will continue training in the Adriatic city of Rijeka before leaving for the eastern city of Osijek to play Senegal in a friendly on Friday (June 8). The match is meant to prepare them for their opening World Cup match against Nigeria on June 16 in Kaliningrad, before facing Argentina on June 21 in Nizhny Novgorod and Iceland on June 26 in Rostov-on-Don.

Croatia's Lovren says the team will 'fight to the end' in the World Cup

FC Barcelona's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez said Tuesday that everyone, including the Uruguayan national team, dreams of the World Cup and has high hopes to go as far as possible.

"Why don't dream? Everyone dreams of the World Cup, with all the expectations to go far. We have the capacity to go as far as possible," he said at a press conference.

He said many of his Barcelona teammates told him they did not want to face the Uruguayan team, which gave him satisfaction and, in his opinion, this showed their respect for his national team.

He explained that the players of "La Celeste" (The Sky Blue) are prepared to "be neat."

"As the days go by, we see some shortcomings that we may have and that we must try to correct," he admitted.

Suarez was emotional to talk with the three compatriots who had to leave the final 23-man squad that will play in the World Cup: Federico Valverde, Nicolas Lodeiro and Gaston Ramirez.

Suarez said Valverde, 19, who plays for Deportivo La Coruna, will get a "rematch and many more possibilities."

For Lodeiro, he said that his absence from the World Cup is difficult because he is a friend.

He also regretted the loss of Ramirez because of the experience he has accumulated in the previous World Cups.

Uruguay is in Group A with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Russia.&nbsp;

Suarez said that Egypt will be a tough rival, as it is Uruguay's first match in the World Cup and his opponent is armed with Liverpool's forward Mohamed Salah.

"Saudi Arabia might be a little more accessible than Egypt, but it is a World Cup and the national team will want to play a good role," he added.

Uruguay's first match in the World Cup is against Egypt and his opponent is armed with Liverpool's forward Mohamed Salah

FC Barcelona's Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez said Tuesday that everyone, including the Uruguayan national team, dreams of the World Cup and has high hopes to go as far as possible. "Why don't dream? Everyone dreams of the World Cup, with all the expectations to go far. We have the capacity to go as far as possible," he said at a press conference. He said many of his Barcelona teammates told him they did not want to face the Uruguayan team, which gave him satisfaction and, in his opinion, this showed their respect for his national team. He explained that the players of "La Celeste" (The Sky Blue) are prepared to "be neat." "As the days go by, we see some shortcomings that we may have and that we must try to correct," he admitted. Suarez was emotional to talk with the three compatriots who had to leave the final 23-man squad that will play in the World Cup: Federico Valverde, Nicolas Lodeiro and Gaston Ramirez. Suarez said Valverde, 19, who plays for Deportivo La Coruna, will get a "rematch and many more possibilities." For Lodeiro, he said that his absence from the World Cup is difficult because he is a friend. He also regretted the loss of Ramirez because of the experience he has accumulated in the previous World Cups. Uruguay is in Group A with Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Russia. Suarez said that Egypt will be a tough rival, as it is Uruguay's first match in the World Cup and his opponent is armed with Liverpool's forward Mohamed Salah. "Saudi Arabia might be a little more accessible than Egypt, but it is a World Cup and the national team will want to play a good role," he added.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Luis Suarez admits Egypt will be a tough rival

The FIFA World Cup trophy has reached to Moscow, Russia after visiting 50 countries and completing a nine-month journey of more than 140,000 km. The journey of the much-coveted trophy was started on September 9 in the Russian capital of Moscow. The trophy traveled across Russian cities and then continued its journey abroad visiting over 50 countries across six continents.

This year's tour is the was the longest ever and it allowed more than 300,000 people to view the coveted 18-carat gold, 36cm-high trophy.

The trophy is usually kept at the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich.

When it reached to Moscow, the residents got a chance to take a close look at the World Cup trophy on Monday (June 4) in the capital's famous Gorky Park.

The trophy was displayed in a riverside pavilion shaped like a soccer ball. Those who came to the show could also see a spectacular promotional video inside the pavilion and buy World Cup souvenirs. The trophy will be on display until June 7.

Russia will host the 2018 World Cup finals in 12 venues spread across 11 cities, which begins on June 14 when the hosts play Saudi Arabia in Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium.

After visiting 50 countries and completing a nine-month journey of more than 140,000 km, the FIFA World Cup trophy has returned to Moscow

The FIFA World Cup trophy has reached to Moscow, Russia after visiting 50 countries and completing a nine-month journey of more than 140,000 km. The journey of the much-coveted trophy was started on September 9 in the Russian capital of Moscow. The trophy traveled across Russian cities and then continued its journey abroad visiting over 50 countries across six continents. This year's tour is the was the longest ever and it allowed more than 300,000 people to view the coveted 18-carat gold, 36cm-high trophy. The trophy is usually kept at the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich. When it reached to Moscow, the residents got a chance to take a close look at the World Cup trophy on Monday (June 4) in the capital's famous Gorky Park. The trophy was displayed in a riverside pavilion shaped like a soccer ball. Those who came to the show could also see a spectacular promotional video inside the pavilion and buy World Cup souvenirs. The trophy will be on display until June 7. Russia will host the 2018 World Cup finals in 12 venues spread across 11 cities, which begins on June 14 when the hosts play Saudi Arabia in Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium.

FIFA World Cup trophy returns to Moscow after trip around globe

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United.&nbsp;

In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million.

Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017.&nbsp;

In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo:

1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem.

2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro.

3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol.

4.&nbsp;He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos.

5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second.

6.&nbsp;That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session.

7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt.

8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal.

9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published.

10. He&nbsp;never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

In 2009, Ronaldo moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million

Cristiano Ronaldo plays as a forward for the Portugal national team. He began his senior club career with for Sporting CP and in 2003, he was transferred to Manchester United. In 2009, he moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid in a transfer worth £80 million. Ronaldo was ranked the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017. In 2008, he was given the responsibility of captaincy and led Portugal to their first-ever triumph in a major tournament by winning Euro 2016 against France. Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2018, here are some interesting facts about Ronaldo: 1. At the age of 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. Although, he had an operation that used a laser to cauterize the area of his heart that caused the problem. 2. Ronaldo was named after former US President, Ronald Reagan, who was greatly admired by Ronaldo’s father. His full name is Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro. 3. He does not drink alcohol because it reminds him of the death of his father, who dies due to an overdose of alcohol. 4. He paid for the cancer treatment of a nine-year-old boy, and regularly donates blood, which is the reason he does not have tattoos. 5. His freekick speed is around 130 kilometers an hour, which means 31.1 meters per second. 6. That's massive! He lifts around 23,055 kg of weight during a training session. 7. Ronaldo signed to Manchester United in 2003 at the young age of 18 and became the franchises first ever Portugal's player. "We've had some fantastic No. 7s, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, some wouldn't want that jersey but his confidence was high even at 18. When he made his debut as substitute against Bolton he took the place by storm," said Sir Alex Ferguson as he handed Ronaldo the No. 7 Shirt. 8. Ronaldo has a fashion boutique named "CR7" based out of his hometown, Madeira, Portugal. 9. In June 2010 Ronaldo became the fourth footballer to be represented at Madame Tussauds waxwork in London and in 2007 his autobiography, Moments, was published. 10. He never revealed who the mother of his elder son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the world's highest-paid athlete: 10 interesting facts about the Portugal star

Peru, making their first appearance at the World Cup since 1982, will face Denmark, France and Australia in their group.

Recently, Paolo Guerrero was freed to take part as, earlier, he was tested positive for a cocaine byproduct contained in a tea and which he said he ingested unknowingly.

After returning to the squad, Guerrero scored twice in the 3-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

His arrival led to Midfielder Sergio Pena's ouster from the final squad as Pena was forced to make way for captain Paolo Guerrero.

Twenty-three man squad:

Goalkeepers: Pedro Gallese (Veracruz), Carlos Caceda (Deportivo Municipal), Jose Carvallo (UTC).

Defenders: Aldo Corzo (Universitario), Luis Advincula (Lobos Buap), Christian Ramos (Veracruz), Miguel Araujo (Alianza Lima), Alberto Rodriguez (Atletico Junior), Anderson Santamaria (Puebla), Miguel Trauco (Flamengo), Nilson Loyola (Melgar).

Midfielders: Renato Tapia (Feyenoord), Pedro Aquino (Lobos Buap), Yoshimar Yotun (Orlando City), Paolo Hurtado (Vitoria Guimaraes), Christian Cueva (Sao Paulo), Edison Flores (Aalborg), Andy Polo (Portland Timbers), Wilder Cartagena (Veracruz).

Forwards: Andre Carrillo (Watford), Raul Ruidiaz (Morelia), Jefferson Farfan (Lokomotiv Moscow), Paolo Guerrero (Flamengo).

Peru, making their first appearance at the World Cup since 1982, will face Denmark, France and Australia in their group

Peru, making their first appearance at the World Cup since 1982, will face Denmark, France and Australia in their group. Recently, Paolo Guerrero was freed to take part as, earlier, he was tested positive for a cocaine byproduct contained in a tea and which he said he ingested unknowingly. After returning to the squad, Guerrero scored twice in the 3-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday. His arrival led to Midfielder Sergio Pena's ouster from the final squad as Pena was forced to make way for captain Paolo Guerrero. Twenty-three man squad: Goalkeepers: Pedro Gallese (Veracruz), Carlos Caceda (Deportivo Municipal), Jose Carvallo (UTC). Defenders: Aldo Corzo (Universitario), Luis Advincula (Lobos Buap), Christian Ramos (Veracruz), Miguel Araujo (Alianza Lima), Alberto Rodriguez (Atletico Junior), Anderson Santamaria (Puebla), Miguel Trauco (Flamengo), Nilson Loyola (Melgar). Midfielders: Renato Tapia (Feyenoord), Pedro Aquino (Lobos Buap), Yoshimar Yotun (Orlando City), Paolo Hurtado (Vitoria Guimaraes), Christian Cueva (Sao Paulo), Edison Flores (Aalborg), Andy Polo (Portland Timbers), Wilder Cartagena (Veracruz). Forwards: Andre Carrillo (Watford), Raul Ruidiaz (Morelia), Jefferson Farfan (Lokomotiv Moscow), Paolo Guerrero (Flamengo).

FIFA World Cup 2018: 34-year-old Paolo Guerrero set to captain Peru

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

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

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

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

Soccer's ruling body FIFA has filed a criminal complaint against online ticket reseller Viagogo, saying it wanted to protect fans and prevent unauthorised ticket resales at the World Cup in Russia starting next week.

Zurich-based FIFA said on Tuesday it had filed a complaint, based on the law on unfair competition, with the public prosecutor's office in Geneva after receiving complaints about the Swiss company's practices.

Viagogo did not reply immediately to a request for comment.

"FIFA's ultimate objective in the fight against the secondary ticket market is to prioritise the safety and security of fans and enforce a fair 2018 FIFA World Cup ticketing pricing scheme," it said in a statement.

FIFA said that its own website was the only legitimate place to buy World Cup tickets, which are on sale until July 15 - the final day of the tournament.

"FIFA regards the illicit sale and distribution of tickets as a serious issue," it said.

"Tickets purchased via unauthorised distribution channels, including all tickets purchased through viagogo AG, will be canceled once identified. FIFA reserves the right to refuse entry to the stadium to any holder of such tickets."

FIFA has filed a criminal complaint against online ticket reseller Viagogo, saying it wanted to protect fans and prevent unauthorised ticket resales at the World Cup in Russia

Soccer's ruling body FIFA has filed a criminal complaint against online ticket reseller Viagogo, saying it wanted to protect fans and prevent unauthorised ticket resales at the World Cup in Russia starting next week. Zurich-based FIFA said on Tuesday it had filed a complaint, based on the law on unfair competition, with the public prosecutor's office in Geneva after receiving complaints about the Swiss company's practices. Viagogo did not reply immediately to a request for comment. "FIFA's ultimate objective in the fight against the secondary ticket market is to prioritise the safety and security of fans and enforce a fair 2018 FIFA World Cup ticketing pricing scheme," it said in a statement. FIFA said that its own website was the only legitimate place to buy World Cup tickets, which are on sale until July 15 - the final day of the tournament. "FIFA regards the illicit sale and distribution of tickets as a serious issue," it said. "Tickets purchased via unauthorised distribution channels, including all tickets purchased through viagogo AG, will be canceled once identified. FIFA reserves the right to refuse entry to the stadium to any holder of such tickets."

FIFA files criminal complaint against online ticket seller Viagogo

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

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

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

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

The 21st edition of World Cup will take place in Russia from June 14 to July 15, 2018. With nine days remaining for the tournament, here are some lesser-known facts about the history of football World Cup which you probably did not know.

1- In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered. It is believed that the trophy was melted and sold.&nbsp;

2- The first World Cup was played in 1930. Uruguay was both the tournament host and winner.

3- France's Lucien Laurent scored the first goal in World Cup history at the 1930 tournament in Uruguay.

4- The most goals ever scored by one player in a World Cup match is an impressive five, by Oleg Salenko of Russia.

5- The 2018 World Cup will be Russia’s 11th World Cup appearance and the World Cup in 2018 will mark the first time Russia has ever hosted this event.&nbsp;

6- This is the 21st edition of FIFA World Cup and Brazil holds the most titles with five.

7- For the first time in the history, the 2002 World Cup was held in two different countries: South Korea and Japan.

8- It is rumored that India withdrew from the 1950 tournament as they were not allowed to play barefoot.

9- The highest scoring game in World Cup history was in 1954 when Austria defeated Switzerland 7-5.

Here are some interesting facts about the history of football World Cup which you probably did not know.

The 21st edition of World Cup will take place in Russia from June 14 to July 15, 2018. With nine days remaining for the tournament, here are some lesser-known facts about the history of football World Cup which you probably did not know. 1- In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered. It is believed that the trophy was melted and sold. 2- The first World Cup was played in 1930. Uruguay was both the tournament host and winner. 3- France's Lucien Laurent scored the first goal in World Cup history at the 1930 tournament in Uruguay. 4- The most goals ever scored by one player in a World Cup match is an impressive five, by Oleg Salenko of Russia. 5- The 2018 World Cup will be Russia’s 11th World Cup appearance and the World Cup in 2018 will mark the first time Russia has ever hosted this event. 6- This is the 21st edition of FIFA World Cup and Brazil holds the most titles with five. 7- For the first time in the history, the 2002 World Cup was held in two different countries: South Korea and Japan. 8- It is rumored that India withdrew from the 1950 tournament as they were not allowed to play barefoot. 9- The highest scoring game in World Cup history was in 1954 when Austria defeated Switzerland 7-5.

9 lesser-known facts about the football World Cup

Russia&nbsp;have played in three World Cups since 1994, failing to get out of the group stage every time, most recently in 2014.

The Soviet Union played in seven World Cups, their best performance coming in 1966 when they reached the semi-finals and losing 2-1 to West Germany. They made the quarter-finals in 1958, 1962 and 1970, losing to Sweden, Chile and Uruguay.

<hr />
Coach: Stanislav Cherchesov

The former goalkeeper won four&nbsp;Russian league titles with Spartak Moscow and three league championships in Austria with FC Tirol Innsbruck in a long career which also included 39 caps forRussia&nbsp;and eight appearances for the Soviet Union.

He began coaching in Austria, later returning to manage a host of&nbsp;Russian sides including Spartak and Dynamo Moscow.

He led Polish side Legia Warsaw to a league and cup double in 2015-16 and was named Leonid Slutsky’s successor in charge of the&nbsp;Russian national team in 2016.

He clung on to his job despite suffering an early exit in the Confederations Cup by coming third in their group behind Portugal and Mexico.

Cherchesov has prioritised the team’s defence, assembling a new-look back three protected by five midfielders. He also has a reputation for making bold decisions, removing reliable defensive midfielder Igor Denisov from the team after falling out with him at Dynamo Moscow.

<hr />
Key players:

Fyodor Smolov: The charismatic striker was written off early in his career after a disappointing spell at Feyenoord and a long goal drought with Anzhi Makhachkala but has roared back with Krasnodar to finish as second top scorer in the&nbsp;Russian Premier League.

With 12 goals in 30 international games, he is his country’s best hope of getting out of the group.

Igor Akinfeev: A one-club man with CSKA Moscow, the goalkeeper has kept more clean sheets than anyone else in the history of&nbsp;Russia’s top flight.

The keeper has more than 100 caps since making his debut in 2004 although he has made costly errors, such as conceding soft goals against South Korea and Algeria in the last World Cup which led to&nbsp;Russia's early elimination.

Aleksei Miranchuk: The playmaker was one of the key men behind Lokomotiv Moscow winning their first league title in 14 years this season.

Twin brother of fellow&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;international Anton, he is&nbsp;Russia's most creative player, with a deft touch and a penchant for producing tricks.

<hr />
Form guide:

Russia's recent results do not make for positive reading: they have lost eight games out of 18 under Cherchesov, winning only five. Most of these matches were friendlies while they lost to Portugal and Mexico in the Confederations Cup and beat New Zealand.

A 4-2 victory over South Korea in October offered hope but they have failed to win in five games since. They battled back to draw 3-3 with Spain in November and were beaten 3-0 by Brazil and 3-1 by France in their most recent games.

<hr />
How they qualified: As tournament hosts

Prospects:

There is a serious danger&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;could join South Africa from 2010 in being the only World Cup tournament hosts to fail to get out of their group.

Cherchesov’s squad are young, inexperienced and mostly play in&nbsp;Russia's top flight, meaning the majority of their players have barely tested themselves against international opponents.

The one thing in their favour is a kind draw which placed them alongside Uruguay, Egypt and Saudi Arabia in Group A. The South Americans will be expected to top the group, meaning&nbsp;Russiaare likely to be battling Egypt and Saudi Arabia for second spot and a place in the last 16.

<hr />
Russia's fixtures

June 14

08:30 PM | Russia vs Saudi Arabia 8:30 PM Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow

June 19

11:30 PM | Russia vs Egypt | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

June 25

07:30 PM | Uruguay vs Russia | Cosmos Arena, Samara

<hr />
Squad:

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Gabulov (Brugge), Andrey Lunev (Zenit St Petersburg)

Defenders:&nbsp;Vladimir Granat, Fyodor Kudryashov (Rubin Kazan), Ilya Kutepov (Spartak Moscow), Andrey Semyonov (Akhmat Grozny), Igor Smolnikov (Zenit St Petersburg), Mario Fernandes, Sergei Ignashevich (CSKA Moscow)

Midfielders:&nbsp;Yury Gazinsky (Krasnodar), Alan Dzagoev, Alexander Golovin (CSKA Moscow), Alexander Erokhin, Yury Zhirkov, Daler Kuzyaev (Zenit St Petersburg), Roman Zobnin, Alexander Samedov (Spartak Moscow), Anton Miranchuk (Lokomotiv Moscow), Denis Cheryshev (Villarreal)

Strikers:&nbsp;Artem Dzyuba (Arsenal Tula), Alexei Miranchuk (Lokomotiv Moscow), Fyodor Smolov (Krasnodar)

&nbsp;

<img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/fifa%202018%20Russia_0.jpg" width="770" />

In 1992, Russia appeared for the first time in football World Cup

Russia have played in three World Cups since 1994, failing to get out of the group stage every time, most recently in 2014. The Soviet Union played in seven World Cups, their best performance coming in 1966 when they reached the semi-finals and losing 2-1 to West Germany. They made the quarter-finals in 1958, 1962 and 1970, losing to Sweden, Chile and Uruguay. Coach: Stanislav Cherchesov The former goalkeeper won four Russian league titles with Spartak Moscow and three league championships in Austria with FC Tirol Innsbruck in a long career which also included 39 caps forRussia and eight appearances for the Soviet Union. He began coaching in Austria, later returning to manage a host of Russian sides including Spartak and Dynamo Moscow. He led Polish side Legia Warsaw to a league and cup double in 2015-16 and was named Leonid Slutsky’s successor in charge of the Russian national team in 2016. He clung on to his job despite suffering an early exit in the Confederations Cup by coming third in their group behind Portugal and Mexico. Cherchesov has prioritised the team’s defence, assembling a new-look back three protected by five midfielders. He also has a reputation for making bold decisions, removing reliable defensive midfielder Igor Denisov from the team after falling out with him at Dynamo Moscow. Key players: Fyodor Smolov: The charismatic striker was written off early in his career after a disappointing spell at Feyenoord and a long goal drought with Anzhi Makhachkala but has roared back with Krasnodar to finish as second top scorer in the Russian Premier League. With 12 goals in 30 international games, he is his country’s best hope of getting out of the group. Igor Akinfeev: A one-club man with CSKA Moscow, the goalkeeper has kept more clean sheets than anyone else in the history of Russia’s top flight. The keeper has more than 100 caps since making his debut in 2004 although he has made costly errors, such as conceding soft goals against South Korea and Algeria in the last World Cup which led to Russia's early elimination. Aleksei Miranchuk: The playmaker was one of the key men behind Lokomotiv Moscow winning their first league title in 14 years this season. Twin brother of fellow Russia international Anton, he is Russia's most creative player, with a deft touch and a penchant for producing tricks. Form guide: Russia's recent results do not make for positive reading: they have lost eight games out of 18 under Cherchesov, winning only five. Most of these matches were friendlies while they lost to Portugal and Mexico in the Confederations Cup and beat New Zealand. A 4-2 victory over South Korea in October offered hope but they have failed to win in five games since. They battled back to draw 3-3 with Spain in November and were beaten 3-0 by Brazil and 3-1 by France in their most recent games. How they qualified: As tournament hosts Prospects: There is a serious danger Russia could join South Africa from 2010 in being the only World Cup tournament hosts to fail to get out of their group. Cherchesov’s squad are young, inexperienced and mostly play in Russia's top flight, meaning the majority of their players have barely tested themselves against international opponents. The one thing in their favour is a kind draw which placed them alongside Uruguay, Egypt and Saudi Arabia in Group A. The South Americans will be expected to top the group, meaning Russiaare likely to be battling Egypt and Saudi Arabia for second spot and a place in the last 16. Russia's fixtures June 14 08:30 PM | Russia vs Saudi Arabia 8:30 PM Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow June 19 11:30 PM | Russia vs Egypt | Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg June 25 07:30 PM | Uruguay vs Russia | Cosmos Arena, Samara Squad: Goalkeepers: Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), Vladimir Gabulov (Brugge), Andrey Lunev (Zenit St Petersburg) Defenders: Vladimir Granat, Fyodor Kudryashov (Rubin Kazan), Ilya Kutepov (Spartak Moscow), Andrey Semyonov (Akhmat Grozny), Igor Smolnikov (Zenit St Petersburg), Mario Fernandes, Sergei Ignashevich (CSKA Moscow) Midfielders: Yury Gazinsky (Krasnodar), Alan Dzagoev, Alexander Golovin (CSKA Moscow), Alexander Erokhin, Yury Zhirkov, Daler Kuzyaev (Zenit St Petersburg), Roman Zobnin, Alexander Samedov (Spartak Moscow), Anton Miranchuk (Lokomotiv Moscow), Denis Cheryshev (Villarreal) Strikers: Artem Dzyuba (Arsenal Tula), Alexei Miranchuk (Lokomotiv Moscow), Fyodor Smolov (Krasnodar)

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Russia

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

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

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

FIFA World Cup 2018: A complete profile of Argentina

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.

<hr />
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.

<hr />
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.

<hr />
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

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly informed his teammates that he would be leaving the club weeks before the UEFA Champions League final.&nbsp;

According to media reports, Ronaldo made it clear that he was seeking a new challenge after the game in Kiev, in which Madrid beat Liverpool 3-1 to secure their third Champions League triumph in a row.

After the match also, Ronaldo stole the limelight by fueling speculation over his future, saying: ‘It was very nice to be in Madrid. In the next few days I will give an answer to the fans, who have always been by my side.’

Ronaldo may not have scored in the final against Liverpool, but he remains a crucial player for Los Blancos.

Even at 33 years old, there aren't many signs of him slowing down.&nbsp;

After Zidane's exit from the manager's seat, Madrid would surely want to keep their talismanic forward around.

The Portugal international is tied to a long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, and as per reports, Ronaldo's release clause stands at €1 billion (£870 million).

Ronaldo made it clear that he was seeking a new challenge after the game in Kiev

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly informed his teammates that he would be leaving the club weeks before the UEFA Champions League final. According to media reports, Ronaldo made it clear that he was seeking a new challenge after the game in Kiev, in which Madrid beat Liverpool 3-1 to secure their third Champions League triumph in a row. After the match also, Ronaldo stole the limelight by fueling speculation over his future, saying: ‘It was very nice to be in Madrid. In the next few days I will give an answer to the fans, who have always been by my side.’ Ronaldo may not have scored in the final against Liverpool, but he remains a crucial player for Los Blancos. Even at 33 years old, there aren't many signs of him slowing down. After Zidane's exit from the manager's seat, Madrid would surely want to keep their talismanic forward around. The Portugal international is tied to a long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, and as per reports, Ronaldo's release clause stands at €1 billion (£870 million).

Cristiano Ronaldo told teammates he is leaving Real Madrid

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

The 2018 soccer World Cup will have a little lasting impact on the Russian economy, Rating agency Moody's Investors Service said on Thursday.

Russia will host the world's biggest soccer tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 11 cities in the European part of the country, having spent billions of dollars on preparations.

"We see very limited economic impact at the national level given the limited duration of the World Cup and the very large size of the country's economy," Moody's said.

"While the extra boost in tourism will benefit Russia's already healthy external accounts, the added support will likely be short-lived."

Moody's finding is at variance with an assessment last month by former deputy prime minister Arkady Dvorkovich, who said Russia's economic growth was to a large extent being driven by investments generated by preparations for the World Cup.

Moody's said the food, hotel, telecoms and transport industries would see a temporary boost in revenue, but the overall credit impact for the Russian corporate sector would be limited.

Moscow airports would benefit "because upgraded facilities will support higher passenger flows, even after the event," Moody's said.

"Construction companies are also among the key beneficiaries, but they would have already felt much of the impact."

But the sectors expected to benefit most from increased tourist flows "are not key growth drivers in most hosting local economies," Moody's said.

Russia will host the world's biggest soccer tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 11 cities in the European part of the country, having spent billions of dollars on preparations

The 2018 soccer World Cup will have a little lasting impact on the Russian economy, Rating agency Moody's Investors Service said on Thursday. Russia will host the world's biggest soccer tournament from June 14 to July 15 in 11 cities in the European part of the country, having spent billions of dollars on preparations. "We see very limited economic impact at the national level given the limited duration of the World Cup and the very large size of the country's economy," Moody's said. "While the extra boost in tourism will benefit Russia's already healthy external accounts, the added support will likely be short-lived." Moody's finding is at variance with an assessment last month by former deputy prime minister Arkady Dvorkovich, who said Russia's economic growth was to a large extent being driven by investments generated by preparations for the World Cup. Moody's said the food, hotel, telecoms and transport industries would see a temporary boost in revenue, but the overall credit impact for the Russian corporate sector would be limited. Moscow airports would benefit "because upgraded facilities will support higher passenger flows, even after the event," Moody's said. "Construction companies are also among the key beneficiaries, but they would have already felt much of the impact." But the sectors expected to benefit most from increased tourist flows "are not key growth drivers in most hosting local economies," Moody's said.

FIFA World Cup to have little impact on Russia's economy, says Moody's Investors

&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

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology has been implemented in the Football World Cup 2018 and it has become the major talking point for the event which will kick-off from June 14. The introduction of technology is considered as the game-changing by FIFA.

In October 2017, FIFA head Gianni Infantino said: "We can't imagine a World Cup in 2018 being decided by a referee's error."

The process of VAR will work on two ways, the referee will request a review after making a decision or the VAR team can recommend reviewing a particular decision.

VAR operates on a three-step process of the incident, review/advice, decision.&nbsp;

The referee can immediately overturn the call based on the VAR's advice, review the incident themselves on a monitor on the touchline or stick with their initial decision.

VAR will look to ensure that the correct decision was made regarding the award or non-award of a penalty, a goal, penalty decisions, after a straight red card or in cases of mistaken identity.

"If there is something away from the action that has been missed and it later comes to the attention of the VAR or the assistant VAR, then they can inform the referee and he can send the player off, even if it is later in the match," IFAB technical director David Elleray told The Times.

"We do not anticipate this happening very often... this would only be for serious red-card offences."

The VAR system will be rolled out for the first time at a World Cup at the June 14 to July 15 tournament in Russia.

VAR can only be used when there is doubt surrounding any of four key game-changing situations: After a goal, penalty decisions, after a straight red card or in cases of mistaken identity

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology has been implemented in the Football World Cup 2018 and it has become the major talking point for the event which will kick-off from June 14. The introduction of technology is considered as the game-changing by FIFA. In October 2017, FIFA head Gianni Infantino said: "We can't imagine a World Cup in 2018 being decided by a referee's error." The process of VAR will work on two ways, the referee will request a review after making a decision or the VAR team can recommend reviewing a particular decision. VAR operates on a three-step process of the incident, review/advice, decision. The referee can immediately overturn the call based on the VAR's advice, review the incident themselves on a monitor on the touchline or stick with their initial decision. VAR will look to ensure that the correct decision was made regarding the award or non-award of a penalty, a goal, penalty decisions, after a straight red card or in cases of mistaken identity. "If there is something away from the action that has been missed and it later comes to the attention of the VAR or the assistant VAR, then they can inform the referee and he can send the player off, even if it is later in the match," IFAB technical director David Elleray told The Times. "We do not anticipate this happening very often... this would only be for serious red-card offences." The VAR system will be rolled out for the first time at a World Cup at the June 14 to July 15 tournament in Russia.

Video Assistant Referee is a blessing for FIFA World Cup 2018

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