<p>Mohamed Salah, Egyptian footballer also considered the 'Egyptian King' scored two goals against AS Roma on Wednesday at Anfield.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool'&nbsp;</p>

<p>'He felt the love in Liverpool,' Salah said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Salah was named Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year on Sunday. Leading with 43 goals in 47 games this season is indeed an incredible record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is next in line with the great attacking players, Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar.</p>

<p>There has been some news of him becoming the next winner of the most prestigious individual accolade in world football.</p>

<p>"I love that when I was a kid that I was playing the PlayStation as Liverpool," Salah jokes.</p>

<p>It was absolutely a delight for English Football League audiences to watch Salah throughout the season as some of his performances were awestruck.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked about him being the third best player in the world, he says, "I'll leave that for the people to decide".</p>

<p>The calm and relaxed player did not celebrate either of his goals against his former club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pressure builds upon him as his fellow teammate named him as "Player of the Year".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It makes me work harder," he says due to fan's expectations. "It makes me give everything, more than before because now there's more pressure. Everyone is looking for you to do something. When I didn't score in one game, they said: 'Wow, he's playing badly'."</p>

<p>"Everyone is expecting something in each game I'm playing. I don't have to score in every game but I want to do my best. I want to give everything for the club for my teammates and myself also", he added.&nbsp;</p>


He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool'

Mohamed Salah, Egyptian footballer also considered the 'Egyptian King' scored two goals against AS Roma on Wednesday at Anfield. He plays as a forward for the English Premier League club 'Liverpool' 'He felt the love in Liverpool,' Salah said. Salah was named Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year on Sunday. Leading with 43 goals in 47 games this season is indeed an incredible record. He is next in line with the great attacking players, Messi, Ronaldo and Neymar. There has been some news of him becoming the next winner of the most prestigious individual accolade in world football. "I love that when I was a kid that I was playing the PlayStation as Liverpool," Salah jokes. It was absolutely a delight for English Football League audiences to watch Salah throughout the season as some of his performances were awestruck. When asked about him being the third best player in the world, he says, "I'll leave that for the people to decide". The calm and relaxed player did not celebrate either of his goals against his former club. Pressure builds upon him as his fellow teammate named him as "Player of the Year". "It makes me work harder," he says due to fan's expectations. "It makes me give everything, more than before because now there's more pressure. Everyone is looking for you to do something. When I didn't score in one game, they said: 'Wow, he's playing badly'." "Everyone is expecting something in each game I'm playing. I don't have to score in every game but I want to do my best. I want to give everything for the club for my teammates and myself also", he added.

Mohamed Salah felt the 'love in Liverpool'

<p>Lionel Messi, the Argentine star has spent his entire life with FC Barcelona. He started his career at Camp Nou and has earned accolades for the club. Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child and then he moved to Spain to join Spanish giants Barcelona, who agreed to pay for his medical treatment.</p>

<p>Five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Messi signed his first contract as a senior team player on his 18th birthday and that contract had a validity till 2010, which eventually extended further.</p>

<p>On June&nbsp;24, 2005,&nbsp;he marked his entry in one of the most prestigious clubs of Spain.</p>

<p>In the presence of Messi, Barcelona have won 30 trophies, including eight LaLiga titles, four UEFA Champions League titles, and five Copas del Rey titles.</p>

<p>Argentine star, Lionel Messi plays as a forward for Barcelona and the Argentina national team and is considered as one of the greatest players of all time. He scored over 600 senior career goals for club and country.</p>

<p>On April 18, in the season 2006-2007, Messi scored a stunner against Getafe CF, when he showcased his football skills to net almost an impossible goal. He started his run from the center and dribbled past the goalkeeper and several other defenders to score the stunning goal.</p>

<p><em>Let's take a look back at one of the most mesmerizing goals in the history of LaLiga.</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">G⚽️AL MORNING!!!<br />
? OMG <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a><br />
? 11 years ago <a href="https://t.co/0EaBv55Wxs">pic.twitter.com/0EaBv55Wxs</a></p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/986516046969372672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnThisDay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnThisDay</a> 1⃣1⃣ years ago ?? Leo Messi did this for <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FCBarcelona</a><br />
?...<a href="https://t.co/UvCBio57at">pic.twitter.com/UvCBio57at</a></p>
— FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAcom/status/986578667244609536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Five-time Ballon d'Or winner signed his first contract as a senior team player on his 18th birthday

Lionel Messi, the Argentine star has spent his entire life with FC Barcelona. He started his career at Camp Nou and has earned accolades for the club. Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency as a child and then he moved to Spain to join Spanish giants Barcelona, who agreed to pay for his medical treatment. Five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Messi signed his first contract as a senior team player on his 18th birthday and that contract had a validity till 2010, which eventually extended further. On June 24, 2005, he marked his entry in one of the most prestigious clubs of Spain. In the presence of Messi, Barcelona have won 30 trophies, including eight LaLiga titles, four UEFA Champions League titles, and five Copas del Rey titles. Argentine star, Lionel Messi plays as a forward for Barcelona and the Argentina national team and is considered as one of the greatest players of all time. He scored over 600 senior career goals for club and country. On April 18, in the season 2006-2007, Messi scored a stunner against Getafe CF, when he showcased his football skills to net almost an impossible goal. He started his run from the center and dribbled past the goalkeeper and several other defenders to score the stunning goal. Let's take a look back at one of the most mesmerizing goals in the history of LaLiga. G⚽️AL MORNING!!! ? OMG #Messi ? 11 years ago pic.twitter.com/0EaBv55Wxs — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 18, 2018 × #OnThisDay 1⃣1⃣ years ago ?? Leo Messi did this for @FCBarcelona ?...pic.twitter.com/UvCBio57at — FIFA.com (@FIFAcom) April 18, 2018 ×

Throwback: This is what Lionel Messi did 11 years ago for FC Barcelona

<p>Barcelona continues its unbeaten run as their star striker Lionel Messi came off the bench to score an 89th-minute 2-2 equaliser against Sevilla on Saturday.</p>

<p>Barca has not lost a single match in the season and with 8 matches left they are on the brink of creating history.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Still unbeaten!<br />
Still ?!<br />
?? <a href="https://t.co/YdWyjGTAzX">pic.twitter.com/YdWyjGTAzX</a></p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/980182998531366916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Lionel Messi, who is struggling with a muscle injury was not in the line-up but he came up trumps again and&nbsp;celebrated his goal.</p>

<p>With one more win, Barcelona will equalise Real Sociedad’s league record of 38 games unbeaten set over two seasons in 1978/79 and 79/80 as Barcelona have now gone 37 consecutive league games since losing to Malaga in April last year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">...cometh the man! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> ?❤️ <a href="https://t.co/dusdeiSBwh">pic.twitter.com/dusdeiSBwh</a></p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/980191787099787264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"If you have Messi and he does not play, it is clear that it has a lot of importance," coach Ernesto Valverde said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He is a player that is decisive every time he touches the ball."</p>

<p>Franco Vazquez and Luis Muriel put Sevilla 2-0 ahead at the Sanchez Pizjuan, but Luis Suarez struck with two minutes to play before Messi fired in from the edge.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">? The best pics from a pulsating game!<br />
? <a href="https://t.co/KFkxcWui0a">https://t.co/KFkxcWui0a</a><br />
?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevillaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevillaBarça</a> <a href="https://t.co/r9fwnyanrB">pic.twitter.com/r9fwnyanrB</a></p>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/980248481251160064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Messi came off the bench to score an 89th-minute 2-2 equaliser against Sevilla

Barcelona continues its unbeaten run as their star striker Lionel Messi came off the bench to score an 89th-minute 2-2 equaliser against Sevilla on Saturday. Barca has not lost a single match in the season and with 8 matches left they are on the brink of creating history. Still unbeaten! Still ?! ?? pic.twitter.com/YdWyjGTAzX — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 31, 2018 × Lionel Messi, who is struggling with a muscle injury was not in the line-up but he came up trumps again and celebrated his goal. With one more win, Barcelona will equalise Real Sociedad’s league record of 38 games unbeaten set over two seasons in 1978/79 and 79/80 as Barcelona have now gone 37 consecutive league games since losing to Malaga in April last year. ...cometh the man! #Messi ?❤️ pic.twitter.com/dusdeiSBwh — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 31, 2018 × "If you have Messi and he does not play, it is clear that it has a lot of importance," coach Ernesto Valverde said. "He is a player that is decisive every time he touches the ball." Franco Vazquez and Luis Muriel put Sevilla 2-0 ahead at the Sanchez Pizjuan, but Luis Suarez struck with two minutes to play before Messi fired in from the edge. ? The best pics from a pulsating game! ? https://t.co/KFkxcWui0a ?? #SevillaBarça pic.twitter.com/r9fwnyanrB — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 1, 2018 ×

Messi's 89th-minute equaliser against Sevilla rescues Barcelona, they remain unbeaten

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

World Cup friendlies: Spain humiliates Messi-less Argentina

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


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

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

Messi isn't missed as Argentina down Italy

<p>Lionel Messi scored his 100th goal of Champions League&nbsp;against Chelsea in the decisive second leg clash in the round of 16 at Camp Nou and inspired the team to reach the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League.</p>

<p>Messi scored the opener within three minutes of the first half and later assisted Ousmane Dembele to double Barca&#39;s lead.</p>

<p>In the second half, he scored another goal and slammed a century of goals in total 123 appearances to complete a 3-0 victory.</p>

<p>Messi became the second player to reach the milestone of 100 goals after Real Madrid&#39;s Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 117 goals in 152 games.</p>

<p>When we talk about Messi&#39;s 100th goal, let&#39;s take a look back to the mesmerising journey from where it began.</p>

<p>He scored his first goal of Champions Trophy on November 2, 2005, in the 34th minute of a group stage match against Panathinaikos at the Camp Nou.</p>

<p>In that match, Barca was already leading 2-0 and Messi did the addition when he flicked the ball over goalkeeper Galinovic scoring his first goal of UEFA champions league.</p>

<p><em>Watch Messi&#39;s first goal of Champions League.</em></p>

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<p>Messi yesterday&#39;s goal was more than magical,<em> Watch the highlights:</em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leo Messi vs Chelsea.<br />
<br />
The greatest player of all time. <a href="https://t.co/sF3pfIijyO">pic.twitter.com/sF3pfIijyO</a></p>
&mdash; fabiano&trade; (@XaviTempo) <a href="https://twitter.com/XaviTempo/status/974049272630038528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Leo messi goal (Full) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://t.co/9fA7x1MAqh">pic.twitter.com/9fA7x1MAqh</a></p>
&mdash; Messinho (@i_Messinho) <a href="https://twitter.com/i_Messinho/status/974012879933452293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi scored his first and 100th goal in UEFA Champions League at Barcelona's home ground Camp Nou

Lionel Messi scored his 100th goal of Champions League against Chelsea in the decisive second leg clash in the round of 16 at Camp Nou and inspired the team to reach the quarter-finals of UEFA Champions League. Messi scored the opener within three minutes of the first half and later assisted Ousmane Dembele to double Barca's lead. In the second half, he scored another goal and slammed a century of goals in total 123 appearances to complete a 3-0 victory. Messi became the second player to reach the milestone of 100 goals after Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 117 goals in 152 games. When we talk about Messi's 100th goal, let's take a look back to the mesmerising journey from where it began. He scored his first goal of Champions Trophy on November 2, 2005, in the 34th minute of a group stage match against Panathinaikos at the Camp Nou. In that match, Barca was already leading 2-0 and Messi did the addition when he flicked the ball over goalkeeper Galinovic scoring his first goal of UEFA champions league. Watch Messi's first goal of Champions League. × Messi yesterday's goal was more than magical, Watch the highlights: Leo Messi vs Chelsea. The greatest player of all time. pic.twitter.com/sF3pfIijyO — fabiano™ (@XaviTempo) March 14, 2018 × Leo messi goal (Full) #Messi pic.twitter.com/9fA7x1MAqh — Messinho (@i_Messinho) March 14, 2018 ×

Watch: Throwback to Lionel Messi's first goal in Champions League

<p>Lionel Messi was away attending the birth of his son but Barcelona still had more than enough to beat 10-man Malaga 2-0 on Saturday and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga.</p>

<p>Messi was watching the game on a television in the hospital as Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho put his team two up inside half an hour at La Rosaleda Stadium, before Samuel Garcia was sent off in the 30th minute for a dangerous tackle on Jordi Alba.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgJ67QJn9Hi/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Listos !!!</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/leomessi/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Leo Messi</a> (@leomessi) on <time datetime="2018-03-10T19:48:55+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 10, 2018 at 11:48am PST</time></p>
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<p>Down a man and without a win in 12 matches, Malaga might have feared a rout but Barca settled for a straightforward victory, perhaps with one eye on Wednesday&#39;s Champions League last-16 clash against Chelsea.</p>

<p>Messi is expected back at the Camp Nou, where the score is 1-1 from the first leg, but Ernesto Valverde will have been delighted with how his attackers filled the void, as Suarez, Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele all delivered excellent displays.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">???? Final whistle!<br />
⚽ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/M%C3%A1lagaBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#M&aacute;lagaBar&ccedil;a</a><br />
???? <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisSuarez9</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Phil_Coutinho?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Phil_Coutinho</a> ????<br />
<br />
???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/UKxbiVmwBM">pic.twitter.com/UKxbiVmwBM</a></p>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/972586771933466625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In particular, Dembele&#39;s brilliant turn and the pass was bettered only by Coutinho&#39;s flicked finish for what was a superb second goal.</p>

<p>The win means Barca extend their advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who can pull the deficit back to eight points with a win over Celta Vigo on Sunday.</p>

<p>Malaga, meanwhile, remains rooted to the bottom of the table.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Without Messi, Barcelona defeated10-man Malaga 2-0 and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga

Lionel Messi was away attending the birth of his son but Barcelona still had more than enough to beat 10-man Malaga 2-0 on Saturday and move 11 points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi was watching the game on a television in the hospital as Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho put his team two up inside half an hour at La Rosaleda Stadium, before Samuel Garcia was sent off in the 30th minute for a dangerous tackle on Jordi Alba. Listos !!! A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on Mar 10, 2018 at 11:48am PST × Down a man and without a win in 12 matches, Malaga might have feared a rout but Barca settled for a straightforward victory, perhaps with one eye on Wednesday's Champions League last-16 clash against Chelsea. Messi is expected back at the Camp Nou, where the score is 1-1 from the first leg, but Ernesto Valverde will have been delighted with how his attackers filled the void, as Suarez, Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele all delivered excellent displays. ???? Final whistle! ⚽ #MálagaBarça ???? @LuisSuarez9, @Phil_Coutinho ???? ???????? #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/UKxbiVmwBM — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 10, 2018 × In particular, Dembele's brilliant turn and the pass was bettered only by Coutinho's flicked finish for what was a superb second goal. The win means Barca extend their advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who can pull the deficit back to eight points with a win over Celta Vigo on Sunday. Malaga, meanwhile, remains rooted to the bottom of the table.

Suarez, Coutinho inspire Barca to win against Malaga

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

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

Messi out of Barca squad to welcome baby 'Ciro'

<p>Luis Suarez hit a hat-trick and Philippe Coutinho scored a brilliant first league goal for Barcelona as the La Liga leaders thrashed Girona 6-1 on Saturday to open up a 10-point lead at the top of the table.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season, as Barca extended their advantage over closest title rivals Atletico Madrid, who visit Sevilla on Sunday.</p>

<p>It was the perfect outing for Barcelona after ninth-placed Girona had taken a shock early lead on their first-ever visit to the Camp Nou, as Coutinho, Suarez, Messi and Ousmane Dembele shone on their first start together.</p>

<p>Portu took advantage of hesitation from Barca centre-back Samuel Umtiti to round goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and slot into an empty net to put Girona ahead in La Liga&#39;s newest Catalan derby.</p>

<p>The hosts took less than two minutes to get back on level terms, though, as Messi collected the ball in midfield before sending Suarez through to score.</p>

<p>Messi&#39;s wizardry put Ernesto Valverde&#39;s side in front on the half-hour mark after Suarez touched down a long pass from Andres Iniesta for the Argentinian.</p>

<p>It looked as though the chance had gone when Messi was forced wide, but the league&#39;s top scorer showed trademark footwork to jink past several defenders before slotting into the bottom corner.</p>

<p>The five-time Ballon d&#39;Or winner was running the show, and he doubled the advantage just seven minutes later with a low free-kick under the wall.</p>

<p>&quot;It always seems that he has done everything and then suddenly, he surprises us again, as with his free kick. It sounds easy but it is not,&quot; said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde.</p>

<p>Having gone five games without a goal before his crucial equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek, Messi has scored three in two games.</p>

<p>Barcelona&#39;s fourth goal came on the stroke of half-time with Girona&#39;s defenders left begging for the interval after Messi&#39;s perfectly-weighted pass found Coutinho to square for Suarez to tap in.</p>

<p>The Catalan giants eased off slightly in the second half, but Coutinho got off the mark in the league in style as he cut inside and curled a long-range strike into the far corner.</p>

<p>French winger Dembele played his part too late on as he crossed from the left for Suarez to complete a hat-trick.</p>

<p>After a slow start to the campaign, the Uruguayan forward has now scored 17 goals in his last 14 league matches.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season

Luis Suarez hit a hat-trick and Philippe Coutinho scored a brilliant first league goal for Barcelona as the La Liga leaders thrashed Girona 6-1 on Saturday to open up a 10-point lead at the top of the table. Lionel Messi continued his return to goalscoring form with a double to reach 30 in all competitions for the season, as Barca extended their advantage over closest title rivals Atletico Madrid, who visit Sevilla on Sunday. It was the perfect outing for Barcelona after ninth-placed Girona had taken a shock early lead on their first-ever visit to the Camp Nou, as Coutinho, Suarez, Messi and Ousmane Dembele shone on their first start together. Portu took advantage of hesitation from Barca centre-back Samuel Umtiti to round goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen and slot into an empty net to put Girona ahead in La Liga's newest Catalan derby. The hosts took less than two minutes to get back on level terms, though, as Messi collected the ball in midfield before sending Suarez through to score. Messi's wizardry put Ernesto Valverde's side in front on the half-hour mark after Suarez touched down a long pass from Andres Iniesta for the Argentinian. It looked as though the chance had gone when Messi was forced wide, but the league's top scorer showed trademark footwork to jink past several defenders before slotting into the bottom corner. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was running the show, and he doubled the advantage just seven minutes later with a low free-kick under the wall. "It always seems that he has done everything and then suddenly, he surprises us again, as with his free kick. It sounds easy but it is not," said Barca coach Ernesto Valverde. Having gone five games without a goal before his crucial equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek, Messi has scored three in two games. Barcelona's fourth goal came on the stroke of half-time with Girona's defenders left begging for the interval after Messi's perfectly-weighted pass found Coutinho to square for Suarez to tap in. The Catalan giants eased off slightly in the second half, but Coutinho got off the mark in the league in style as he cut inside and curled a long-range strike into the far corner. French winger Dembele played his part too late on as he crossed from the left for Suarez to complete a hat-trick. After a slow start to the campaign, the Uruguayan forward has now scored 17 goals in his last 14 league matches.

Suarez hat-trick extends six-goal Barca's La Liga lead

<p>Yes, a baby boy is on its way and he is going to be named as &quot;Ciro.&quot; In a recent Instagram post, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/messi">Messi</a>&#39;s wife <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/antonella-roccuzzo">Antonella Roccuzzo</a> revealed the gender and name of her third child. She shared a picture of a blue baby bed which was engraved with the name Ciro. The adorable pair shares two sons, five-year-old Thiago and two-year-old Mateo both of them were born before marriage.&nbsp;In Greek, the meaning of the name Ciro is sun or lordly and in Spanish also, the meaning is a bit similar which is throne or sun.</p>

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<p>The Barcelona star&#39;s wife Antonella Roccuzzo has announced name and gender of the third child. (Instagram)</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/messi">Messi</a> and Antonella, childhood lovers, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/antonella-roccuzzo-meet-the-future-mrs-messi-267">got married</a> in June 2017 in their hometown Rosario in Argentina.</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022">Also read:&nbsp;Wayne Rooney says &#39;5-a-side team complete,&#39; after birth of </a></strong><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022">fourth</a></strong><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-welcomes-his-fourth-son-33022">&nbsp;son</a></strong></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWYLqnyB60x/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Recuerdos❤️❤️❤️</a></p>

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<p>Barcelona&#39;s striker <a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/messi">Lionel Messi</a> must have planned a new tattoo for his third baby and as he already has tributes to Mateo and Thiago.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/antonella-roccuzzo">Antonella Roccuzzo</a> has been very open about pregnancy&nbsp;as she kept posting related pictures on social networking sites.</p>

<p>On Mother&#39;s Day in Argentina, Roccuzzo posted a picture of the couple and two sons Thiago, four, and Mateo, two, touching her stomach, with the caption &quot;Family of five&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BaRXKnABzyd/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Familia de 5❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ #blessed????????????????????????</a></p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb13xmJhBpj/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">❤️El hermano mayor mas dulce❤️</a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The baby is expected soon and the arrival of the third baby would bless the couple with even more happiness and good luck.</p>

<p>Currently,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/topic/messi"> Messi</a> is having one of the best seasons till now, he already leads the way of scoring maximum goals in the season with 28 goals. Also the team Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and holds a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Messi and Antonella Roccuzzo have been together since childhood and got married in their hometown Rosario in Argentina in June and now expecting their third baby.

Yes, a baby boy is on its way and he is going to be named as "Ciro." In a recent Instagram post, Messi's wife Antonella Roccuzzo revealed the gender and name of her third child. She shared a picture of a blue baby bed which was engraved with the name Ciro. The adorable pair shares two sons, five-year-old Thiago and two-year-old Mateo both of them were born before marriage. In Greek, the meaning of the name Ciro is sun or lordly and in Spanish also, the meaning is a bit similar which is throne or sun. The Barcelona star's wife Antonella Roccuzzo has announced name and gender of the third child. (Instagram) × Messi and Antonella, childhood lovers, got married in June 2017 in their hometown Rosario in Argentina. Also read: Wayne Rooney says '5-a-side team complete,' after birth of fourth son Recuerdos❤️❤️❤️ A post shared by AntoRoccuzzo88 (@antoroccuzzo88) on Jul 10, 2017 at 12:30pm PDT × Barcelona's striker Lionel Messi must have planned a new tattoo for his third baby and as he already has tributes to Mateo and Thiago. Antonella Roccuzzo has been very open about pregnancy as she kept posting related pictures on social networking sites. On Mother's Day in Argentina, Roccuzzo posted a picture of the couple and two sons Thiago, four, and Mateo, two, touching her stomach, with the caption "Family of five". Familia de 5❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ #blessed???????????????????????? A post shared by AntoRoccuzzo88 (@antoroccuzzo88) on Oct 15, 2017 at 7:02am PDT × ❤️El hermano mayor mas dulce❤️ A post shared by AntoRoccuzzo88 (@antoroccuzzo88) on Nov 23, 2017 at 6:51am PST × The baby is expected soon and the arrival of the third baby would bless the couple with even more happiness and good luck. Currently, Messi is having one of the best seasons till now, he already leads the way of scoring maximum goals in the season with 28 goals. Also the team Barcelona is currently having arguably one of the best seasons. They have already made it into the final of the Copa del Rey and holds a comfortable lead in the La Liga standings.

Messi's wife reveals gender and name of third child

<p>Football legend Pele, 77, is confident that Brazil has a strong chance to win the FIFA World Cup due to begin&nbsp;in June.</p>

<p>Five-time winners Brazil were thrashed 7-1 in the 2014 semi-finals by Germany, but Pele has faith in the newly appointed coach, Adenor Leonardo Bacchi.</p>

<p>He advised&nbsp;the Brazilian&nbsp;footballers to play as a team&nbsp;and not rely on just one or two players.</p>

<p>&quot;Whenever Brazil won World Cups it was not because of Pele, Zico&hellip; it was because of the team,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>The king of football was honoured on Monday in Rio de Janeiro during an event to launch the 2018 edition of the Rio State League.</p>

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<p>Legendary Brazilian footballer Pele uses a walking frame as he greets supporters. (AFP)</p>
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<p>Pele is recovering from several surgeries. In the backstage, he denied to take any assistance&nbsp;to reach the stage, he said his walker is the&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">&quot;new God-given boots&quot;.</span></p>

<p>&quot;I&#39;m fine, thank goodness, and I want to thank all those who sent me messages wishing me a good recovery from all over the world,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>He also criticised the current scenario of football and mentioned that very few players are emerging as legends.</p>

<p>&quot;Today, there are only three players who really stand out; Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Pele stated that, in the past, you could name several star footballers who played at the same time, such as Portugal&#39;s Eusebio, Germany&#39;s Franz Beckenbauer, England&#39;s Bobby Moore and his Brazil teammates such as Tostao, Jairzinho among others.</p>

<p>Pele, who scored over 1,000 goals during his career, despite any comparisons that might one day appear, &quot;there will be no other Pele&quot;.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

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

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

<p>Spanish tax authorities are investigating whether payments from FC Barcelona to Lionel Messi&#39;s foundation were used to help the player evade taxes, Spanish daily El Mundo reported on Saturday.</p>

<p>The newspaper, which has acquired Football Leaks documents, reported that the club gave the foundation &quot;at least 12.7 million euros ($15.5 million) between 2010 and 2016&quot;.</p>

<p>The paper said that the payments from Barca represented 71.5 percent of the foundation&#39;s revenue between 2013 and 2016.</p>

<p>The foundation says on its website that it &quot;was created in 2007 with the wish that all children should have the same opportunities to make their dreams come true, and to promote equality in education and health.&quot;</p>

<p>Between 2010 and the official registration of the foundation in June 2013, the club reduced the corporate tax they paid on the money by 35 per cent, in line with rules on donations to charities.</p>

<p>Those payments raised the suspicions of the authorities which, in January 2016, began to investigate whether the money&nbsp;had been &quot;remunerative&quot; and evaded corporate and income tax. In April 2016, tax investigators visited the Barcelona offices -- not for the first time in recent years.</p>

<p>After the official scrutiny began, the club stopped making the deductions from their donations and started withholding 45 per cent for taxes suggesting, the newspaper said, that the payments &quot;were considered part of the salary&quot; of the Argentine star.</p>

<p>El Mundo said that the club had urged Messi, already being investigated for a 4.1 million-euro tax fraud relating to his image rights, to &quot;regularise the donations to his foundation&quot;. In the image rights case, Messi and his father, Jorge, were found guilty in &nbsp;2016.</p>

<p>El Mundo said that, by law, 70 percent of a charity&#39;s revenue should be spent on the aims for which it was created but a report in another Spanish newspaper, ABC, found the foundation&#39;s accounts were full of gaps but included large sums spent on external consultants, rent and refurbishing its offices or transferred to its branch in Argentina.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to documents examined by El Mundo, a tax settlement was paid to the Spanish treasury, in theory by Messi but ultimately by Barca, which made up the amount in a complex transaction days before the player signed a new contract last November.</p>

<p>That contract, which runs until 2021, will pay Messi more than 100 million euros a year including salary and image rights according to information published on Friday by the European Investigation Collaborations, which includes El Mundo.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Spanish tax authorities scrutinise Messi's foundation to investigate tax fraud

Spanish tax authorities are investigating whether payments from FC Barcelona to Lionel Messi's foundation were used to help the player evade taxes, Spanish daily El Mundo reported on Saturday. The newspaper, which has acquired Football Leaks documents, reported that the club gave the foundation "at least 12.7 million euros ($15.5 million) between 2010 and 2016". The paper said that the payments from Barca represented 71.5 percent of the foundation's revenue between 2013 and 2016. The foundation says on its website that it "was created in 2007 with the wish that all children should have the same opportunities to make their dreams come true, and to promote equality in education and health." Between 2010 and the official registration of the foundation in June 2013, the club reduced the corporate tax they paid on the money by 35 per cent, in line with rules on donations to charities. Those payments raised the suspicions of the authorities which, in January 2016, began to investigate whether the money had been "remunerative" and evaded corporate and income tax. In April 2016, tax investigators visited the Barcelona offices -- not for the first time in recent years. After the official scrutiny began, the club stopped making the deductions from their donations and started withholding 45 per cent for taxes suggesting, the newspaper said, that the payments "were considered part of the salary" of the Argentine star. El Mundo said that the club had urged Messi, already being investigated for a 4.1 million-euro tax fraud relating to his image rights, to "regularise the donations to his foundation". In the image rights case, Messi and his father, Jorge, were found guilty in 2016. El Mundo said that, by law, 70 percent of a charity's revenue should be spent on the aims for which it was created but a report in another Spanish newspaper, ABC, found the foundation's accounts were full of gaps but included large sums spent on external consultants, rent and refurbishing its offices or transferred to its branch in Argentina. According to documents examined by El Mundo, a tax settlement was paid to the Spanish treasury, in theory by Messi but ultimately by Barca, which made up the amount in a complex transaction days before the player signed a new contract last November. That contract, which runs until 2021, will pay Messi more than 100 million euros a year including salary and image rights according to information published on Friday by the European Investigation Collaborations, which includes El Mundo.

Messi's foundation under scrutiny

<p>A clause in Lionel Messi&#39;s contract has ensured that he could become a free agent if Barcelona no longer plays in a major European league as a result of Catalan independence.</p>

<p>According to a report, the contract Messi signed last November includes a clause that he must remain a Barcelona player only as long as the club is playing in &quot;a top-level European league.&quot;</p>

<p>A source at Barcelona told AFP that &quot;for reasons of confidentiality the club never comments on contractual relations with players.&quot;</p>

<p><span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">Catalonia with the population of 7.5 million and history of over 1000 years old had voted in favour of its exit from Spain.</span></p>

<p>Catalonian nationalists proclaimed independence from Spain after a referendum on October 1, precipitating a crisis which is still unresolved.&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">More than 90&nbsp;</span>per cent<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">&nbsp;population had voted for independence.</span></p>

<p><strong><span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-fc-barcelona-exit-spanish-football-league-21270">Will FC Barcelona exit Spanish football league?</a></span></strong></p>

<p>The Spanish civil and football authorities have said repeatedly that Catalan secession would end the participation of the region&#39;s clubs in the Spanish League.&nbsp;<span style="background-color: rgb(245, 246, 245);">After the separation of Catalonia from Spain, the club may shut down.</span></p>

<p>If Catalonia becomes independent and Barcelona are booted out of La Liga and cannot persuade another major league (France, Italy, Germany or England) to give them a home, Messi could leave without having to pay his 700 million euro ($843 million).</p>

<p>Catalans have everything they need to flourish as an independent nation. A state which has its own police and parliament, amazing infrastructure and rich as well as varied heritage. Almost everything that is necessary for a country to get along with other developing nation.</p>

<p>But, when it comes to football, Catalonia may suffer a lot after its separation from Spain. Likewise whole Europe, Catalans also has undying madness for football. FC Barcelona holds a very important place in Spanish football leagues. Laliga,&nbsp;the most important of the Spanish league, will be incomplete without FC Barcelona.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The contract Messi signed last November includes a clause that he must remain a Barcelona player only as long as the club is playing in 'a top-level European league'

A clause in Lionel Messi's contract has ensured that he could become a free agent if Barcelona no longer plays in a major European league as a result of Catalan independence. According to a report, the contract Messi signed last November includes a clause that he must remain a Barcelona player only as long as the club is playing in "a top-level European league." A source at Barcelona told AFP that "for reasons of confidentiality the club never comments on contractual relations with players." Catalonia with the population of 7.5 million and history of over 1000 years old had voted in favour of its exit from Spain. Catalonian nationalists proclaimed independence from Spain after a referendum on October 1, precipitating a crisis which is still unresolved. More than 90 per cent population had voted for independence. Also read: Will FC Barcelona exit Spanish football league? The Spanish civil and football authorities have said repeatedly that Catalan secession would end the participation of the region's clubs in the Spanish League. After the separation of Catalonia from Spain, the club may shut down. If Catalonia becomes independent and Barcelona are booted out of La Liga and cannot persuade another major league (France, Italy, Germany or England) to give them a home, Messi could leave without having to pay his 700 million euro ($843 million). Catalans have everything they need to flourish as an independent nation. A state which has its own police and parliament, amazing infrastructure and rich as well as varied heritage. Almost everything that is necessary for a country to get along with other developing nation. But, when it comes to football, Catalonia may suffer a lot after its separation from Spain. Likewise whole Europe, Catalans also has undying madness for football. FC Barcelona holds a very important place in Spanish football leagues. Laliga, the most important of the Spanish league, will be incomplete without FC Barcelona.

Barcelona's Messi to become 'free agent', if Catalonia exit Spain

<p>A pro-Islamic State(IS) organization <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-claims-responsibilty-for-deadly-marseille-attack-20899">has released a chilling image of football star Lionel Messi behind bars</a> with blood-soaked eyes threatening to unleash violence in the next football World Cup to be held in Russia in 2018.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The poster <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-group-claims-london-attack-20273">released by the Wafa media foundation said:</a> &ldquo;You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary,&rdquo; ending with the message &quot;just terrorism&quot;, which is the famous American shoe company Nike&#39;s tagline &quot;just do it&quot;.</p>

<p>The Messi poster was tweeted by SITE intelligence group, a company which tracks terror activities online.</p>

<p>The last time the IS openly attacked a sporting event was at the Stade de France football stadium in 2015 during a friendly match between France and Germany. Four explosions were reported resulting in the death of at least four people.</p>

<p>The attack at the football stadium in France was carried out by two suicide&nbsp;bombers with reports indicating a third attacker may also have been involved. It was the worst terror attack to have taken place at&nbsp;a sporting event in Europe.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pro-IS Media Group Uses FC Barcelona Star Lionel Messi on Poster Threatening 2018 FIFA World Cup <a href="https://t.co/omvIYv2VaO">https://t.co/omvIYv2VaO</a></p>
&mdash; SITE Intel Group (@siteintelgroup) <a href="https://twitter.com/siteintelgroup/status/922869037918507008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Messi poster was tweeted by SITE intelligence group, a company which tracks terror activities online.

A pro-Islamic State(IS) organization has released a chilling image of football star Lionel Messi behind bars with blood-soaked eyes threatening to unleash violence in the next football World Cup to be held in Russia in 2018. The poster released by the Wafa media foundation said: “You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary,” ending with the message "just terrorism", which is the famous American shoe company Nike's tagline "just do it". The Messi poster was tweeted by SITE intelligence group, a company which tracks terror activities online. The last time the IS openly attacked a sporting event was at the Stade de France football stadium in 2015 during a friendly match between France and Germany. Four explosions were reported resulting in the death of at least four people. The attack at the football stadium in France was carried out by two suicide bombers with reports indicating a third attacker may also have been involved. It was the worst terror attack to have taken place at a sporting event in Europe. Pro-IS Media Group Uses FC Barcelona Star Lionel Messi on Poster Threatening 2018 FIFA World Cup https://t.co/omvIYv2VaO — SITE Intel Group (@siteintelgroup) October 24, 2017 ×

Pro-IS group releases Messi poster, threatens football World Cup in Russia

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pro-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISIS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISIS</a> media unit Wafa&#39; Foundation continues to threaten 2018 FIFA <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a>, this time using an image of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LionelMessi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LionelMessi</a> in a prison outfit <a href="https://t.co/isB8RDKYAK">pic.twitter.com/isB8RDKYAK</a></p>
&mdash; SITE Intel Group (@siteintelgroup) <a href="https://twitter.com/siteintelgroup/status/922863797928329216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ahead of the FIFA World Cup to be held in 2018, the Wafa Media Foundation,&nbsp; a pro-ISIS group on Twitter, releases a shocking image to threaten fans and followers of football.</p>

<p>The Islamic State&#39;s mouthpiece used the face of the Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi to convey their ideology. The released poster says &#39;Just Terrorism&#39; and &#39;You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary&#39;. Also in the poster, Lionel Messi is standing behind the bar with one eye crying blood.</p>

<p>The poster is intended to spread terror among football fans, indicating also that the terror group may carry a terror attack during FIFA World Cup. The other posters released by them contain pictures of rifles and explosives. Last week, Wafa Media Foundation published one photo of a fighter carrying a rifle and a time-bomb with the ISIS black flag in front of a football stadium. The official symbol of the 2018 World Cup finals was also included in the image.</p>

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<p>The poster says, &quot;Oh, enemies of Allah in Russia, I swear that the fire of the mujahideen will burn them, just wait,&quot;. (Twitter)</p>
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<p>Politics has always been part of all sporting events in the recorded history of humankind. When Indian football clubs played with their British counterpart, it was very much a display of nationalist sentiment. In more recent times, every cricket match between India and Pakistan was an extension of the political tension that exists between the two nation. Winning a match has become more than a sporting event, it has come to signify, unfortunately, the superiority of one nation over the other. Political permeation of sports is not limited to the subcontinent; every football match played between and English and Wales football club show the domineering influence of politics, often sidelining the sporting spirit.</p>

<p>For repressive minority groups, sports events have often served as a tool to convey their sufferings to the rest of the world. For instance, recently, American football player Colin Kaepernick initiated a protest against New York police brutality. The NFL players either took a knee during the national anthem before a game or stand with arms locked in silent protest. This bold move started as a result of repeated videos showing police shooting and killing unarmed black men.</p>

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<p>NFL protest (Others)</p>
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<p>Racism has time again inspired players to protest. In the 1968 Olympics, 200m gold and bronze medalist Tommie Smith and John Carlos respectively took up a public stance against racism. They stood with their heads bowed and raising a black-gloved hand as the American National Anthem played during the victory ceremony.</p>

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<p>Tommie Smith and John Carlos (Others)</p>
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<p>But, terrorism in sports is something that has caused global concern and condemnation. The threat of terrorism has become a major threat to all major sporting events as causing a debacle there, the terrorists understand well enough, would have global repercussions. Sporting events, such as the Olympics, football tournaments and cricket matches have been targeted, some of them had a larger impact such as the 1972 Olympics in Munich.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The Palestine Liberation Organization terrorist at 1972 Munich Olympics. (Others)</p>
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<p>At the Munich Olympics, eleven Israeli Olympic team members were taken as the hostage and eventually killed, along with a German police officer, by the Palestinian terrorist group Black September. The attack was motivated by the desire to release members of the Palestine Liberation Organization held in captivity in Israeli prisons. German neo-Nazis gave logistical help to the commander of the terrorist group, Luttif Afif in carrying out the brutal attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Boston Marathon of 2013 witnessed another bloody chapter in global sports history; two bombs were detonated near the finishing line, leaving three people dead and more than 260 injured. These attacks will always be considered as dark chapters in the history of sports, and the recent one targeting FIFA World Cup is another chapter added to the books on &#39;sports and terrorism&#39;.</p>

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<p>Double bombings near the finish line of the Boston Marathon killed three people and injured at least 264. (Others)</p>
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<p>Terror threat to FIFA World Cup will definitely influence the football festival. Having millions of followers, the Argentinian star is a legend and is also one of the favourites in the football fraternity. The terrorist, thus, very judiciously picked up the poster boy of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 2018 FIFA World Cup will be played across 11 cities in Russia from&nbsp;June 14 to July 15, and the final will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.</p>

<p>Hence, these continuous terrorist threats raise a serious question as to how the Russian government is going to deal with the security issues during the World Cup. Meanwhile, these threats will remain the main concern for football fans and followers, who are eager to visit Russia to support their favourite teams.</p>


Vulnerable targets, media exposure, and international impact are some of the reasons why terrorists have increasingly started targeting sporting venues.

Pro-#ISIS media unit Wafa' Foundation continues to threaten 2018 FIFA #WorldCup, this time using an image of #LionelMessi in a prison outfit pic.twitter.com/isB8RDKYAK — SITE Intel Group (@siteintelgroup) October 24, 2017 × Ahead of the FIFA World Cup to be held in 2018, the Wafa Media Foundation, a pro-ISIS group on Twitter, releases a shocking image to threaten fans and followers of football. The Islamic State's mouthpiece used the face of the Argentinian football legend Lionel Messi to convey their ideology. The released poster says 'Just Terrorism' and 'You are fighting a state that does not have failure in its dictionary'. Also in the poster, Lionel Messi is standing behind the bar with one eye crying blood. The poster is intended to spread terror among football fans, indicating also that the terror group may carry a terror attack during FIFA World Cup. The other posters released by them contain pictures of rifles and explosives. Last week, Wafa Media Foundation published one photo of a fighter carrying a rifle and a time-bomb with the ISIS black flag in front of a football stadium. The official symbol of the 2018 World Cup finals was also included in the image. The poster says, "Oh, enemies of Allah in Russia, I swear that the fire of the mujahideen will burn them, just wait,". (Twitter) × Politics has always been part of all sporting events in the recorded history of humankind. When Indian football clubs played with their British counterpart, it was very much a display of nationalist sentiment. In more recent times, every cricket match between India and Pakistan was an extension of the political tension that exists between the two nation. Winning a match has become more than a sporting event, it has come to signify, unfortunately, the superiority of one nation over the other. Political permeation of sports is not limited to the subcontinent; every football match played between and English and Wales football club show the domineering influence of politics, often sidelining the sporting spirit. For repressive minority groups, sports events have often served as a tool to convey their sufferings to the rest of the world. For instance, recently, American football player Colin Kaepernick initiated a protest against New York police brutality. The NFL players either took a knee during the national anthem before a game or stand with arms locked in silent protest. This bold move started as a result of repeated videos showing police shooting and killing unarmed black men. NFL protest (Others) × Racism has time again inspired players to protest. In the 1968 Olympics, 200m gold and bronze medalist Tommie Smith and John Carlos respectively took up a public stance against racism. They stood with their heads bowed and raising a black-gloved hand as the American National Anthem played during the victory ceremony. Tommie Smith and John Carlos (Others) × But, terrorism in sports is something that has caused global concern and condemnation. The threat of terrorism has become a major threat to all major sporting events as causing a debacle there, the terrorists understand well enough, would have global repercussions. Sporting events, such as the Olympics, football tournaments and cricket matches have been targeted, some of them had a larger impact such as the 1972 Olympics in Munich. The Palestine Liberation Organization terrorist at 1972 Munich Olympics. (Others) × At the Munich Olympics, eleven Israeli Olympic team members were taken as the hostage and eventually killed, along with a German police officer, by the Palestinian terrorist group Black September. The attack was motivated by the desire to release members of the Palestine Liberation Organization held in captivity in Israeli prisons. German neo-Nazis gave logistical help to the commander of the terrorist group, Luttif Afif in carrying out the brutal attack. The Boston Marathon of 2013 witnessed another bloody chapter in global sports history; two bombs were detonated near the finishing line, leaving three people dead and more than 260 injured. These attacks will always be considered as dark chapters in the history of sports, and the recent one targeting FIFA World Cup is another chapter added to the books on 'sports and terrorism'. Double bombings near the finish line of the Boston Marathon killed three people and injured at least 264. (Others) × Terror threat to FIFA World Cup will definitely influence the football festival. Having millions of followers, the Argentinian star is a legend and is also one of the favourites in the football fraternity. The terrorist, thus, very judiciously picked up the poster boy of the game. The 2018 FIFA World Cup will be played across 11 cities in Russia from June 14 to July 15, and the final will be played at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Hence, these continuous terrorist threats raise a serious question as to how the Russian government is going to deal with the security issues during the World Cup. Meanwhile, these threats will remain the main concern for football fans and followers, who are eager to visit Russia to support their favourite teams.

Munich to Messi: Why terror haunts sports

<p>Catalonia with the population of 7.5 million and history of over 1000 years old has voted in favour of its exit from Spain. More than 90 per cent population has voted for independence. After a long struggle, finally, they won the right to statehood and is all set to emerge as an independent nation.</p>

<p>Catalans have everything they need to flourish as an independent nation. A state which has its own police and parliament, amazing infrastructure and rich as well as varied heritage. Almost everything that is necessary for a country to get along with other developing nation.</p>

<p>The diversified and dynamic economy has contributed 18.9 per cent of Spain&#39;s GDP. Catalonia&#39;s economic trend for 2017&nbsp; is 2.7 per cent. Rich in natural resources, it&#39;s 1000 years old history and remarkable culture makes it different from rest of the Spain. Language, wine, food, festival, football has the unique association with Catalonia.</p>

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<h5>FC Barcelona club&#39;s value calculated in June 2017 was $3635 million.</h5>
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<p>But, when it comes to football, Catalonia may suffer a lot after its separation from Spain. Likewise whole Europe, Catalans also has undying madness for football. FC Barcelona holds a very important place in Spanish football leagues. Laliga,&nbsp;the most important of the Spanish league, will be incomplete without FC Barcelona.</p>

<p>After the separation of Catalonia from Spain, the club may shut down.</p>

<p>Many Barcelona players came forward in support of Catalon&nbsp;independence. Catalonian defender Gerard Pique, who also plays for the National Football team of Spain, has voted in favour of the referendum and posted in the social forum. He twitted, &quot;I already voted. Together we are unstoppable defending democracy&quot;. He promotes Catalan independence and said very clearly that he may leave Spanish football team if it is necessary.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="und">Ja he votat. Junts som imparables defensant la democr&agrave;cia. <a href="https://t.co/mGXf7Qj1TM">pic.twitter.com/mGXf7Qj1TM</a></p>
&mdash; Gerard Piqu&eacute; (@3gerardpique) <a href="https://twitter.com/3gerardpique/status/914433491747659776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>La Liga president Javier Tebas, who himself is a Real Madrid follower, accentuated that football clubs of the Catalonian region would not be able to continue in case of independence. Barcelona playing in the Spanish Leagues would not violate any law but Tebas&#39; comments are not in Barca&#39;s favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are other football teams, such as Dinamo Tbilisi and Red Star Belgrade who lost their identity after the respective countries got independence.</p>

<p>But speculations show and also indicated by club&#39;s president Josep Maria Bartomeu, &quot;Barcelona may leave La Liga if Catalonia gains independence&quot;, it may move to English Premier Leauge and flourish its football career. There are living examples of such teams, such as Monaco which plays in the French league and there are Welsh teams participating in English league.</p>

<p>Amid this chaos, FCB&#39;s captain, Andres Iniesta signed a lifetime contract with FC Barcelona despite being from Fuentealbilla, Albacete. He said, &quot;I am a Spanish but also feel for Catalans&quot;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>FC Barcelona&#39;s exit from Laliga would be a huge impact on Spanish football system. FC Barcelona club&#39;s value calculated in June 2017 was $3635 million, whereas, the revenue generated from the club is around $688 million.</p>


Laliga,?the most important of the Spanish league, will be incomplete without FC Barcelona.

Catalonia with the population of 7.5 million and history of over 1000 years old has voted in favour of its exit from Spain. More than 90 per cent population has voted for independence. After a long struggle, finally, they won the right to statehood and is all set to emerge as an independent nation. Catalans have everything they need to flourish as an independent nation. A state which has its own police and parliament, amazing infrastructure and rich as well as varied heritage. Almost everything that is necessary for a country to get along with other developing nation. The diversified and dynamic economy has contributed 18.9 per cent of Spain's GDP. Catalonia's economic trend for 2017 is 2.7 per cent. Rich in natural resources, it's 1000 years old history and remarkable culture makes it different from rest of the Spain. Language, wine, food, festival, football has the unique association with Catalonia. FC Barcelona club's value calculated in June 2017 was $3635 million. × But, when it comes to football, Catalonia may suffer a lot after its separation from Spain. Likewise whole Europe, Catalans also has undying madness for football. FC Barcelona holds a very important place in Spanish football leagues. Laliga, the most important of the Spanish league, will be incomplete without FC Barcelona. After the separation of Catalonia from Spain, the club may shut down. Many Barcelona players came forward in support of Catalon independence. Catalonian defender Gerard Pique, who also plays for the National Football team of Spain, has voted in favour of the referendum and posted in the social forum. He twitted, "I already voted. Together we are unstoppable defending democracy". He promotes Catalan independence and said very clearly that he may leave Spanish football team if it is necessary. Ja he votat. Junts som imparables defensant la democràcia. pic.twitter.com/mGXf7Qj1TM — Gerard Piqué (@3gerardpique) October 1, 2017 × La Liga president Javier Tebas, who himself is a Real Madrid follower, accentuated that football clubs of the Catalonian region would not be able to continue in case of independence. Barcelona playing in the Spanish Leagues would not violate any law but Tebas' comments are not in Barca's favour. There are other football teams, such as Dinamo Tbilisi and Red Star Belgrade who lost their identity after the respective countries got independence. But speculations show and also indicated by club's president Josep Maria Bartomeu, "Barcelona may leave La Liga if Catalonia gains independence", it may move to English Premier Leauge and flourish its football career. There are living examples of such teams, such as Monaco which plays in the French league and there are Welsh teams participating in English league. Amid this chaos, FCB's captain, Andres Iniesta signed a lifetime contract with FC Barcelona despite being from Fuentealbilla, Albacete. He said, "I am a Spanish but also feel for Catalans". FC Barcelona's exit from Laliga would be a huge impact on Spanish football system. FC Barcelona club's value calculated in June 2017 was $3635 million, whereas, the revenue generated from the club is around $688 million.

Will FC Barcelona exit Spanish football league?

<p>A magical Lionel Messi hat-trick carried Argentina to a 3-1 win over Ecuador on Tuesday and booked their place at next year&#39;s World Cup finals in Russia.</p>

<p>With Argentina facing the dire possibility of missing out on a World Cup for the first time since 1970, their brilliant captain delivered when it mattered most with three goals in the rarefied air of Quito.</p>

<p>The twice World Cup winners finished third in the 10-team South American group, going through with Brazil, Uruguay and Colombia as the automatic qualifiers, while Peru grabbed a playoff place against Oceania champions New Zealand at the expense of Chile.</p>

<p>&quot;Today Argentina took a great step forward,&quot; said coach Jorge Sampaoli. &ldquo;I hope that with the time to prepare that we&rsquo;ll have, we can be competitive (in Russia) like we were today.&rdquo;</p>

<p>While Sampaoli was delighted with his captain&#39;s performance, he said the side had to stop relying on him so much.</p>

<p>&quot;We&#39;ve got to fix it so not everything depends on Messi,&quot; he added.</p>

<p>Messi had not been at his best in Argentina&rsquo;s stuttering campaign and failed to score in their previous three drawn qualifiers, which had left them in sixth place and out of the qualifying berths for Russia heading into Tuesday&#39;s game.</p>

<p>A World Cup without Argentina seemed an even bigger possibility when Romario Ibarra put Ecuador ahead in the opening minute after he got the better of Javier Mascherano and beat Sergio Romero with a low shot.</p>

<p>But Argentina, who had managed only one previous win in Quito, in 2001, equalised 11 minutes later when Messi tapped home after a one-two with Angel Di Maria.</p>

<p>Messi then put Argentina ahead in the 20th minute, firing a superb shot past Maximo Banguera into the top corner, and completed his hat-trick just past the hour, shaking off three tired Ecuador defenders before lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper and into the net.</p>

<p>Messi, enjoying a little bit of extra space seldom afforded against rival South American defences, joined Uruguay&rsquo;s Luis Suarez, his team mate at Barcelona, as the all-time joint top scorers in CONMEBOL qualifiers with 21 goals.</p>


Brazil, Uruguay, and Colombia also go through. Peru will play-off against New Zealand

A magical Lionel Messi hat-trick carried Argentina to a 3-1 win over Ecuador on Tuesday and booked their place at next year's World Cup finals in Russia. With Argentina facing the dire possibility of missing out on a World Cup for the first time since 1970, their brilliant captain delivered when it mattered most with three goals in the rarefied air of Quito. The twice World Cup winners finished third in the 10-team South American group, going through with Brazil, Uruguay and Colombia as the automatic qualifiers, while Peru grabbed a playoff place against Oceania champions New Zealand at the expense of Chile. "Today Argentina took a great step forward," said coach Jorge Sampaoli. “I hope that with the time to prepare that we’ll have, we can be competitive (in Russia) like we were today.” While Sampaoli was delighted with his captain's performance, he said the side had to stop relying on him so much. "We've got to fix it so not everything depends on Messi," he added. Messi had not been at his best in Argentina’s stuttering campaign and failed to score in their previous three drawn qualifiers, which had left them in sixth place and out of the qualifying berths for Russia heading into Tuesday's game. A World Cup without Argentina seemed an even bigger possibility when Romario Ibarra put Ecuador ahead in the opening minute after he got the better of Javier Mascherano and beat Sergio Romero with a low shot. But Argentina, who had managed only one previous win in Quito, in 2001, equalised 11 minutes later when Messi tapped home after a one-two with Angel Di Maria. Messi then put Argentina ahead in the 20th minute, firing a superb shot past Maximo Banguera into the top corner, and completed his hat-trick just past the hour, shaking off three tired Ecuador defenders before lifting the ball over the advancing goalkeeper and into the net. Messi, enjoying a little bit of extra space seldom afforded against rival South American defences, joined Uruguay’s Luis Suarez, his team mate at Barcelona, as the all-time joint top scorers in CONMEBOL qualifiers with 21 goals.

Magical Messi sees Argentina through to World Cup finals

<p>Lionel Messi and Argentina will be fighting for their World Cup lives on Tuesday as the South American heavyweights take on Ecuador aiming to avoid a humiliating failure to qualify for next year&#39;s finals in Russia.</p>

<p>The eyes of the football world will turn to Quito&#39;s Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa to see if the once unthinkable prospect of a World Cup without Messi is to become a stunning reality.</p>

<p>The two-time World Cup winners head into the final round of the South American qualifiers in sixth place, outside the top four positions which grant automatic qualification and trailing fifth-placed Peru, who occupy the play-off spot, on goal difference.</p>

<p>Yet with only two points separating third-placed Chile (26 points) with seventh-placed Paraguay (24), any number of permutations are possible.</p>

<p>Argentina can simplify the equation for their nervous fans, however, if they manage to take all three points in Quito on Tuesday.</p>

<p>A victory would guarantee they finish no worse than fifth place, putting them into a two-legged play-off against New Zealand they would be expected to win.</p>

<p>But winning in the thin air of Quito, which is 2,850 metres (9,350 feet) above sea level, may be easier said than done.</p>

<p>The Argentinians have an abysmal record in away games against Ecuador, with their last victory in Quito coming in 2001.</p>

<p>Since then in World Cup qualifying games, they have been beaten twice, in 2005 and 2009, before scraping a 1-1 draw in 2013.</p>

<p>Barcelona star Messi also has a record of struggling in games at altitude, vomiting on the pitch during a draw in the rarefied air of Bolivia four years ago.</p>

<p><strong>&#39;A catastrophe&#39;</strong><br />
The 30-year-old five-time Ballon D&#39;Or winner also &nbsp;heads into the game knowing that next year&#39;s finals in Russia may be his final chance to emulate Diego Maradona by winning a World Cup.</p>

<p>&quot;A World Cup without Argentina and without Messi would be a catastrophe,&quot; Argentina&#39;s 1978 World Cup hero Mario Kempes said this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;The only ones who would be happy if Messi doesn&#39;t go to the World Cup would be Maradona fans.&quot;</p>

<p>The 2014 World Cup finalists face their moment of truth after a series of uninspiring performances that has left the footballing world scratching its head at how a squad bristling with so much attacking talent has found scoring so difficult.</p>

<p>Despite being able to call upon Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala, Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria throughout the campaign, Argentina have only scored 16 times in 17 games.</p>

<p>Last Thursday&#39;s 0-0 stalemate with Peru in Buenos Aires was Argentina&#39;s third consecutive draw. The Albiceleste have now scored only once in their past four qualifying games.</p>

<p>For some Argentines, the troubles of the national team have been a long time coming. Sergio Batista, a member of the 1986 World Cup-winning team, was scathing in his assessment.</p>

<p>&quot;Argentina is all at sea. But this didn&#39;t happen recently. It&#39;s the end of a movie I&#39;ve been watching for 10 years,&quot; Batista said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I believe in projects and planning, but in our football, there&#39;s nothing. Seven managers in 10 years? And three in a single qualifying campaign? It wouldn&#39;t happen anywhere else.&quot;</p>

<p>Elsewhere on Tuesday, Chile could seal their qualification with victory over Brazil in Sao Paulo. Brazil have already qualified for the finals and are guaranteed top spot.</p>

<p>Uruguay meanwhile need only take a point in their home qualifier against already-eliminated Bolivia to be certain of progressing.</p>

<p>One of the most high-stakes games comes in Lima, where Peru will aim to qualify for their first World Cup finals since 1982 when they take on Colombia.</p>

<p>Colombia were moments from qualifying for the World Cup last Thursday before two last-gasp goals from Paraguay turned a 1-0 win into a 2-1 defeat.</p>

<p>That win kept Paraguay&#39;s qualification bid alive and a home win over Venezuela on Tuesday could see them seal their place to Russia depending on results elsewhere.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Argentina take on Ecuador early Wednesday morning

Lionel Messi and Argentina will be fighting for their World Cup lives on Tuesday as the South American heavyweights take on Ecuador aiming to avoid a humiliating failure to qualify for next year's finals in Russia. The eyes of the football world will turn to Quito's Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa to see if the once unthinkable prospect of a World Cup without Messi is to become a stunning reality. The two-time World Cup winners head into the final round of the South American qualifiers in sixth place, outside the top four positions which grant automatic qualification and trailing fifth-placed Peru, who occupy the play-off spot, on goal difference. Yet with only two points separating third-placed Chile (26 points) with seventh-placed Paraguay (24), any number of permutations are possible. Argentina can simplify the equation for their nervous fans, however, if they manage to take all three points in Quito on Tuesday. A victory would guarantee they finish no worse than fifth place, putting them into a two-legged play-off against New Zealand they would be expected to win. But winning in the thin air of Quito, which is 2,850 metres (9,350 feet) above sea level, may be easier said than done. The Argentinians have an abysmal record in away games against Ecuador, with their last victory in Quito coming in 2001. Since then in World Cup qualifying games, they have been beaten twice, in 2005 and 2009, before scraping a 1-1 draw in 2013. Barcelona star Messi also has a record of struggling in games at altitude, vomiting on the pitch during a draw in the rarefied air of Bolivia four years ago. 'A catastrophe' The 30-year-old five-time Ballon D'Or winner also heads into the game knowing that next year's finals in Russia may be his final chance to emulate Diego Maradona by winning a World Cup. "A World Cup without Argentina and without Messi would be a catastrophe," Argentina's 1978 World Cup hero Mario Kempes said this week. "The only ones who would be happy if Messi doesn't go to the World Cup would be Maradona fans." The 2014 World Cup finalists face their moment of truth after a series of uninspiring performances that has left the footballing world scratching its head at how a squad bristling with so much attacking talent has found scoring so difficult. Despite being able to call upon Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala, Mauro Icardi and Angel Di Maria throughout the campaign, Argentina have only scored 16 times in 17 games. Last Thursday's 0-0 stalemate with Peru in Buenos Aires was Argentina's third consecutive draw. The Albiceleste have now scored only once in their past four qualifying games. For some Argentines, the troubles of the national team have been a long time coming. Sergio Batista, a member of the 1986 World Cup-winning team, was scathing in his assessment. "Argentina is all at sea. But this didn't happen recently. It's the end of a movie I've been watching for 10 years," Batista said. "I believe in projects and planning, but in our football, there's nothing. Seven managers in 10 years? And three in a single qualifying campaign? It wouldn't happen anywhere else." Elsewhere on Tuesday, Chile could seal their qualification with victory over Brazil in Sao Paulo. Brazil have already qualified for the finals and are guaranteed top spot. Uruguay meanwhile need only take a point in their home qualifier against already-eliminated Bolivia to be certain of progressing. One of the most high-stakes games comes in Lima, where Peru will aim to qualify for their first World Cup finals since 1982 when they take on Colombia. Colombia were moments from qualifying for the World Cup last Thursday before two last-gasp goals from Paraguay turned a 1-0 win into a 2-1 defeat. That win kept Paraguay's qualification bid alive and a home win over Venezuela on Tuesday could see them seal their place to Russia depending on results elsewhere.

Football World Cup qualifiers: Make or break for Messi and Argentina

<p>Argentina struggled to get past Venezuela despite Barcelona star Messi&#39;s presence in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-germany-thrash-norway-england-survive-slovakia-scare-19889"> 2018 World Cup qualification match</a> in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>The home team was stuck down in the match by Jhon Murillo goal, the hosts were lucky to get away after a Venezuela own goal by defender Rolf Feltscher ensured a 1-1 draw.</p>

<p>Argentina are now placed in fifth position in the South American standings with top four finishers allowed to qualify automatically for the finals in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Venezuela who are at the bottom of the table have already been eliminated but on Tuesday night they were able to embarrass the star studded Argentian side which came up with a lackluster performance despite home support.</p>

<p>In the European qualifiers, Spain thrashed Liechtenstein 8-0 to take another step towards booking their place in Russia for the World Cup finals next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spain top&nbsp;their group&nbsp;now and have a huge 17-goal lead over Italy.</p>

<p>Spain will play Albania next month with an eye towards sealing a European berth in the World Cup finals.</p>


Argentina struggled to get past Venezuela despite Barcelona star Messi's presence

Argentina struggled to get past Venezuela despite Barcelona star Messi's presence in the 2018 World Cup qualification match in Buenos Aires. The home team was stuck down in the match by Jhon Murillo goal, the hosts were lucky to get away after a Venezuela own goal by defender Rolf Feltscher ensured a 1-1 draw. Argentina are now placed in fifth position in the South American standings with top four finishers allowed to qualify automatically for the finals in Russia. Venezuela who are at the bottom of the table have already been eliminated but on Tuesday night they were able to embarrass the star studded Argentian side which came up with a lackluster performance despite home support. In the European qualifiers, Spain thrashed Liechtenstein 8-0 to take another step towards booking their place in Russia for the World Cup finals next year. Spain top their group now and have a huge 17-goal lead over Italy. Spain will play Albania next month with an eye towards sealing a European berth in the World Cup finals.

World Cup qualifiers: Venezuela hold Argentina, Spain thrash Liechtenstein

<p>Paraguay beat Chile comfortably in the South American World Cup qualifier match to keep their hopes alive to enter the finals in Russia next year.</p>

<p>Paraguay&#39;s 3-0 goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz with&nbsp;Alexis Sanchez failing to make any impact for the home team.</p>

<p>In the other South American qualifier, Brazil beat Ecuador 2-0 to guarantee top spot in South America&#39;s World Cup qualifying race. Paulinho and Coutinho helped the South American giants to clinch the tie as the Brizalian&nbsp;giants looked to conquer the odds in an unpredictable qualifying round.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Argentina, however, stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Uruguay in Montevideo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Uruguay star Suarez looked to score several times but the match ended goalless&nbsp;at the end of 90 minutes.</p>

<p>The draw means Uruguay remain in third place, one behind Colombia, who were held to a 0-0 draw against Venezuela who have already been eliminated.</p>


Paraguay's goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz

Paraguay beat Chile comfortably in the South American World Cup qualifier match to keep their hopes alive to enter the finals in Russia next year. Paraguay's 3-0 goal rush was led by Arturo Vidal, Victor Caceres and Richard Ortiz with Alexis Sanchez failing to make any impact for the home team. In the other South American qualifier, Brazil beat Ecuador 2-0 to guarantee top spot in South America's World Cup qualifying race. Paulinho and Coutinho helped the South American giants to clinch the tie as the Brizalian giants looked to conquer the odds in an unpredictable qualifying round. Argentina, however, stumbled to a 0-0 draw against Uruguay in Montevideo. Uruguay star Suarez looked to score several times but the match ended goalless at the end of 90 minutes. The draw means Uruguay remain in third place, one behind Colombia, who were held to a 0-0 draw against Venezuela who have already been eliminated.

World Cup qualifiers: Paraguay beat Chile, Uruguay hold Argentina

<p>Brazilian soccer star Neymar who completed a world record &nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/football-neymar-signs-record-breaking-264-million-deal-with-psg-18572">222 million euros ($264 million) transfer from Barcelona to PSG</a> appeared in his first press conference in Paris and declared the move was &quot;one of the most difficult decisions&quot; of his life.</p>

<p>The former Barcelona striker said, &quot;I thank all my teammates at Barca for their friendship. I was very happy there for four years but I felt it was time to move on.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;It was a tense time, thinking about what I should do in my life. I have left behind a lot of friends, but things go very fast in football,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>&quot;In Barcelona, I had adapted well to the city and the team. I had friends there and it has not been easy,&quot; the 25-year-old Brazil superstar admitted at PSG&#39;s Parc des Princes press conference.</p>

<p>Neymar&#39;s move would mean he would earn nearly 30 million euros net per year at PSG, but he said he&nbsp;followed his heart while making the decision to play for PSG.</p>

<p>&quot;I have never been motivated by money. I always follow my heart. I regret that people think that and I thank PSG for believing in my potential,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>PSG are set to host newly promoted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/neymar-pledges-trophy-haul-after-psg-transfer-18573">Amiens at the Parc des Princes on the opening day </a>of the new Ligue 1 season, and Neymar declared he was ready to take up the challenge on Day-1 of the season.</p>

<p>&quot;I always want to play, so I am ready to do so tomorrow. I have trained in pre-season. I stopped for two days, but I am ready, I&#39;ve seen the pitch and I want to put the PSG shirt on and play.&quot;</p>

<p>When asked about supporters feelings who felt the Brazilian &quot;betrayed&quot; them, Neymar said: &quot;At no point did I lack respect to the supporters or the club.&quot;</p>

<p>PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi who accompanied Neymar at the press conference&nbsp;said the world record transfer fee of $264million will more than double within two years.</p>

<p>&quot;There are not two Neymars in the world. I would love for us to meet in two years and see what his value will be compared to today. At least the double.&quot;</p>


Neymar's move would mean he would earn nearly 30 million euros net per year at PSG

Brazilian soccer star Neymar who completed a world record 222 million euros ($264 million) transfer from Barcelona to PSG appeared in his first press conference in Paris and declared the move was "one of the most difficult decisions" of his life. The former Barcelona striker said, "I thank all my teammates at Barca for their friendship. I was very happy there for four years but I felt it was time to move on." "It was a tense time, thinking about what I should do in my life. I have left behind a lot of friends, but things go very fast in football," he said. "In Barcelona, I had adapted well to the city and the team. I had friends there and it has not been easy," the 25-year-old Brazil superstar admitted at PSG's Parc des Princes press conference. Neymar's move would mean he would earn nearly 30 million euros net per year at PSG, but he said he followed his heart while making the decision to play for PSG. "I have never been motivated by money. I always follow my heart. I regret that people think that and I thank PSG for believing in my potential," he said. PSG are set to host newly promoted Amiens at the Parc des Princes on the opening day of the new Ligue 1 season, and Neymar declared he was ready to take up the challenge on Day-1 of the season. "I always want to play, so I am ready to do so tomorrow. I have trained in pre-season. I stopped for two days, but I am ready, I've seen the pitch and I want to put the PSG shirt on and play." When asked about supporters feelings who felt the Brazilian "betrayed" them, Neymar said: "At no point did I lack respect to the supporters or the club." PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi who accompanied Neymar at the press conference said the world record transfer fee of $264million will more than double within two years. "There are not two Neymars in the world. I would love for us to meet in two years and see what his value will be compared to today. At least the double."

I have never been motivated by money, always follow my heart: Neymar

<p>Barcelona soccer player Neymar Jr arrived at the team&#39;s training ground in Madrid on Wednesday to tell his teammates there that he is moving to French team Paris Saint Germain, Catalan radio RAC1 has reported.</p>

<p>The Brazilian striker left the training area minutes later, the radio station said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, BCC reported manager Ernesto Valverde did not allow the Brazilian striker to train and told him to &quot;sort out his future&quot;.</p>

<p>The Brazilian also told his teammates at training that &quot;he wanted to leave the Spanish club, &quot;BBC reported.</p>

<p>Neymar&#39;s move to&nbsp;Paris Saint Germain from Barcelona could be worth $220million which will be a world record transfer fee for any player in the history of the game.</p>

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Neymar has told his teammates at training that "he wanted to leave the Spanish club", BBC reported.

Barcelona soccer player Neymar Jr arrived at the team's training ground in Madrid on Wednesday to tell his teammates there that he is moving to French team Paris Saint Germain, Catalan radio RAC1 has reported. The Brazilian striker left the training area minutes later, the radio station said. Meanwhile, BCC reported manager Ernesto Valverde did not allow the Brazilian striker to train and told him to "sort out his future". The Brazilian also told his teammates at training that "he wanted to leave the Spanish club, "BBC reported. Neymar's move to Paris Saint Germain from Barcelona could be worth $220million which will be a world record transfer fee for any player in the history of the game.

Neymar set to join French club Paris Saint Germain: Reports

<p>Barcelona star Lionel Messi today almost bid farewell to Neymar on Instagram after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/neymar-set-to-join-french-club-paris-saint-germain-reports-18494">Brazilian told teammates at a practice session that he wanted to leave the club</a> and join French club Paris Saint- Germain.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi on Instagram said: &quot;It was a huge pleasure having shared all those years with you, my friend @neymarjr.&quot;&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I wish you lots of luck in this new stage in your life. See you soon tkm,&quot; he added. &quot;Tkm&quot; stands for &quot;te quiero mucho&quot; (I love you loads).</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BXSt62SFYWj/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Fue un placer enorme haber compartido todos estos a&ntilde;os con vos, amigo @neymarjr. Te deseo mucha suerte en esta nueva etapa de tu vida. Nos vemos Tkm</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on <time datetime="2017-08-02T13:05:53+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 2, 2017 at 6:05am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Neymar was quick to thank the Argentinian striker, saying,&quot;Thanks&nbsp;brother. I will miss you man.&quot;</p>

<p>There has been speculation in Barcelona for weeks over Neymar&#39;s intention to shift to&nbsp;Paris Saint- Germain. The French club is ready to pay Neymar $220 million which would be a world record transfer fee.</p>


There has been speculation in Barcelona for weeks over Neymar's intention to shift to?Paris Saint- Germain.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi today almost bid farewell to Neymar on Instagram after the Brazilian told teammates at a practice session that he wanted to leave the club and join French club Paris Saint- Germain. Lionel Messi on Instagram said: "It was a huge pleasure having shared all those years with you, my friend @neymarjr." "I wish you lots of luck in this new stage in your life. See you soon tkm," he added. "Tkm" stands for "te quiero mucho" (I love you loads). Fue un placer enorme haber compartido todos estos años con vos, amigo @neymarjr. Te deseo mucha suerte en esta nueva etapa de tu vida. Nos vemos Tkm A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi) on Aug 2, 2017 at 6:05am PDT × Neymar was quick to thank the Argentinian striker, saying,"Thanks brother. I will miss you man." There has been speculation in Barcelona for weeks over Neymar's intention to shift to Paris Saint- Germain. The French club is ready to pay Neymar $220 million which would be a world record transfer fee.

I love you loads, Messi's 'farewell' message to Neymar

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