<p>Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit"&nbspfor the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14.</p>

<p>Paris-Saint Germain star player also mentioned that he feels discomfort while recovering&nbspbut believes that he will be better for the tournament.</p>

<p>The 26-year-old, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot in February in a match against Marseille.</p>

<p>"Physically I am well, my foot is fine. I am adapting in a few things. I still feel some discomfort, but it is not something that will trouble me," Neymar told journalists at Brazil's football confederation headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.</p>

<p>Recently, he said, "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup."&nbsp</p>

<p>Neymar, who missed Brazil's 7-1 semi-final thrashing on home soil by Germany through injury four years ago, is key to his country's hopes at this year's World Cup, which starts on June 14.</p>


Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit" for the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14

Brazilian forward Neymar Jr admitted that he is not "100 per cent fit"&nbspfor the World Cup which is scheduled to start from June 14. Paris-Saint Germain star player also mentioned that he feels discomfort while recovering&nbspbut believes that he will be better for the tournament. The 26-year-old, who joined PSG for a world-record 222 million euros ($264 million) from Barcelona last year, suffered a fractured bone in his right foot in February in a match against Marseille. "Physically I am well, my foot is fine. I am adapting in a few things. I still feel some discomfort, but it is not something that will trouble me," Neymar told journalists at Brazil's football confederation headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. Recently, he said, "Everything's going well, thank God, but there's always this fear when you come back and I need to get rid of that fear as soon as possible to arrive at the World Cup." Neymar, who missed Brazil's 7-1 semi-final thrashing on home soil by Germany through injury four years ago, is key to his country's hopes at this year's World Cup, which starts on June 14.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Neymar admits he is not '100% fit'

<p>Will Smith alongside artists Nicky Jam and Era Istrefi have released&nbsp;anthem song for the 21st edition of football World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Russia and the carnival will kick-off on June 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Produced by Diplo, the lyrics of the song,&nbsp;'Live It Up' aims to bring the fans together. Also, fans are looking forward to being treated to a live rendition of the song during the closing ceremony of FIFA 2018 which is on July 15.</p>

<p>The first match of FIFA 2018 will be played between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. The first ball is yet to be kicked but the frenzy has already begun.</p>

<p>The theme songs play an important role in building up the hysteria also the songs or the anthems are very popular even after the event by the fans and followers.</p>

<p>For example, fans still groove to the beats of some popular theme songs in the history of FIFA like "Dar um Jeito" (We Will Find a Way) featuring Carlos Santana, Wyclef Jean and Avicii and "We are one" by Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull and Claudia Leitte.&nbsp;"Waka Waka" by Shakira, ever wondered why this song as almost 2 billion views on Youtube, obviously you know why!</p>

<p>Recently, the song "Colours" which is written by an American singer-songwriter Jason Derulo was released to serve the same purpose&nbsp;but now Will Smith alongside artists Nicky Jam & Era Istrefi has released on more song which is produced by Diplo for FIFA 2018.</p>

<p><em>As 19 days are&nbsp;to go for the big event, here is the video, listen to the track and get the football fever now:</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Will Smith alongside artists Nicky Jam and Era Istrefi have released anthem song for the 21st edition of football World Cup

Will Smith alongside artists Nicky Jam and Era Istrefi have released anthem song for the 21st edition of football World Cup which is scheduled to take place in Russia and the carnival will kick-off on June 14. Produced by Diplo, the lyrics of the song, 'Live It Up' aims to bring the fans together. Also, fans are looking forward to being treated to a live rendition of the song during the closing ceremony of FIFA 2018 which is on July 15. The first match of FIFA 2018 will be played between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow. The first ball is yet to be kicked but the frenzy has already begun. The theme songs play an important role in building up the hysteria also the songs or the anthems are very popular even after the event by the fans and followers. For example, fans still groove to the beats of some popular theme songs in the history of FIFA like "Dar um Jeito" (We Will Find a Way) featuring Carlos Santana, Wyclef Jean and Avicii and "We are one" by Jennifer Lopez, Pitbull and Claudia Leitte. "Waka Waka" by Shakira, ever wondered why this song as almost 2 billion views on Youtube, obviously you know why! Recently, the song "Colours" which is written by an American singer-songwriter Jason Derulo was released to serve the same purpose but now Will Smith alongside artists Nicky Jam & Era Istrefi has released on more song which is produced by Diplo for FIFA 2018. As 19 days are to go for the big event, here is the video, listen to the track and get the football fever now: ×

American actor Will Smith aims to unite fans with groovy anthem song

<p>Switzerland usually arrive at major tournaments with modest ambitions but with one of the finest generations of players the country has produced reaching its peak, expectations are much higher at this World Cup.</p>

<p>The squad is brimming with players based in Europe's top leagues and those such as Ricardo Rodriguez, Fabian Schaer, Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka are all in their mid-20s with a World Cup and European championship behind them.</p>

<p>Swiss football is reaping the rewards of the hard work done in youth development a decade ago which tapped into the potential offered by second-generation immigrants, many from the former Yugoslavia.</p>

<p>Coach Vladimir Petkovic, who himself boasts a Yugoslav league winners' medal from his playing days with FK Sarajevo, has tried to establish a new attitude in the team, telling them they are no longer "little Switzerland" and must look to dominate matches.</p>

<p>The old defensive tactics which bored fans rigid at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups have been thrown out of the window.</p>

<p>The Swiss have jumped to sixth in the FIFA rankings, lost only one of 12 matches in the qualifying campaign and recently enjoyed a 6-0 thumping of fellow World Cup qualifiers against Panama.</p>

<p>For all the optimism though, doubts linger.</p>

<p>Apart from Portugal, the Swiss have not faced any of the world's leading teams since Euro 2016, a tournament where they never quite lived up to their billing and went out in the last 16 to Poland.</p>

<p>Some players have suffered a loss of form.</p>

<p>Schaer has fallen out of favour at Deportivo Coruna, Shaqiri has suffered relegation with Stoke City in the English Premier League and Xhaka, who runs the Swiss midfield, has been made the scapegoat for Arsenal's failings.</p>

<p>The biggest problem lies in attack where none of the potential forwards have had a good season at club level, with first-choice Haris Seferovic relegated to a substitute's role at Benfica.</p>

<p>Seferovic was even booed off the field when he was substituted in the playoff against Northern Ireland -- a very rare reaction from a Swiss crowd.</p>

<p>The Swiss have reached the last 16 at their last two major tournaments but have not made the quarter-finals since the 1954 World Cup, which the country hosted.</p>

<p>An awkward draw has somewhat dampened hopes that they could take that extra step this time around.</p>

<p>With Brazil expected to top their group, the Swiss will battle Costa Rica and Serbia for second place, which would likely bring a last-16 encounter with defending champions Germany.</p>


Swiss football is reaping the rewards of the hard work done in youth development a decade ago

Switzerland usually arrive at major tournaments with modest ambitions but with one of the finest generations of players the country has produced reaching its peak, expectations are much higher at this World Cup. The squad is brimming with players based in Europe's top leagues and those such as Ricardo Rodriguez, Fabian Schaer, Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka are all in their mid-20s with a World Cup and European championship behind them. Swiss football is reaping the rewards of the hard work done in youth development a decade ago which tapped into the potential offered by second-generation immigrants, many from the former Yugoslavia. Coach Vladimir Petkovic, who himself boasts a Yugoslav league winners' medal from his playing days with FK Sarajevo, has tried to establish a new attitude in the team, telling them they are no longer "little Switzerland" and must look to dominate matches. The old defensive tactics which bored fans rigid at the 2006 and 2010 World Cups have been thrown out of the window. The Swiss have jumped to sixth in the FIFA rankings, lost only one of 12 matches in the qualifying campaign and recently enjoyed a 6-0 thumping of fellow World Cup qualifiers against Panama. For all the optimism though, doubts linger. Apart from Portugal, the Swiss have not faced any of the world's leading teams since Euro 2016, a tournament where they never quite lived up to their billing and went out in the last 16 to Poland. Some players have suffered a loss of form. Schaer has fallen out of favour at Deportivo Coruna, Shaqiri has suffered relegation with Stoke City in the English Premier League and Xhaka, who runs the Swiss midfield, has been made the scapegoat for Arsenal's failings. The biggest problem lies in attack where none of the potential forwards have had a good season at club level, with first-choice Haris Seferovic relegated to a substitute's role at Benfica. Seferovic was even booed off the field when he was substituted in the playoff against Northern Ireland -- a very rare reaction from a Swiss crowd. The Swiss have reached the last 16 at their last two major tournaments but have not made the quarter-finals since the 1954 World Cup, which the country hosted. An awkward draw has somewhat dampened hopes that they could take that extra step this time around. With Brazil expected to top their group, the Swiss will battle Costa Rica and Serbia for second place, which would likely bring a last-16 encounter with defending champions Germany.

FIFA 2018: Switzerland rely on young talents with a mix of experience for football World Cup

<p>Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas is the most successful football export the Central American country has produced and his quiet but determined leadership will be central to his nation's hopes in Russia.</p>

<p>While several of the generations who reached the last eight of the World Cup four years ago have enjoyed lengthy careers in Europe and, before them, Paulo Wanchope made a mark in England, none has achieved as much as the Real Madrid goalkeeper.</p>

<p>Navas has two Champions League titles and a Spanish league title to his name with Real and despite constant suggestions that Zinedine Zidane might be looking elsewhere for another keeper the Costa Rican has kept his spot.</p>

<p>His ability to put aside these doubts and the frequent unfavourable comparisons to Spain's Manchester United keeper David De Gea, who was once lined up to replace him, is no surprise to those who know Navas's background and the adversity he handled so well on his way to the top.</p>

<p>Navas was born in the town of San Isidro in the agricultural Perez Zeledon region in the south of Costa Rica, to working-class parents.</p>

<p>When his mother and father emigrated to the United States, he was brought up by his grandfather and his early football experience was tough, with his local team Municipal Club Perez Zeledon rejecting him as being too small.</p>

<p>He was forced to leave behind his small rural hometown and move to the capital San Jose at the age of 14 as he sought to get his opportunity with the country's most successful club, Deportivo Saprissa.</p>

<p>At Saprissa, now 1.85 metres tall, the deeply Catholic Navas won six domestic league titles and the CONCACAF Champions League before moving to Albacete in Spain's second division, then Levante.</p>

<p>His superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition and persuaded Real to pay his buy-out fee to Levante and bring him to the Bernabeu.</p>

<p>Despite the doubters, he has been a big part of a golden era for Real in European competition, cementing his status as one of the most successful players to emerge from Central America.</p>


Keylor Navas superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition

Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas is the most successful football export the Central American country has produced and his quiet but determined leadership will be central to his nation's hopes in Russia. While several of the generations who reached the last eight of the World Cup four years ago have enjoyed lengthy careers in Europe and, before them, Paulo Wanchope made a mark in England, none has achieved as much as the Real Madrid goalkeeper. Navas has two Champions League titles and a Spanish league title to his name with Real and despite constant suggestions that Zinedine Zidane might be looking elsewhere for another keeper the Costa Rican has kept his spot. His ability to put aside these doubts and the frequent unfavourable comparisons to Spain's Manchester United keeper David De Gea, who was once lined up to replace him, is no surprise to those who know Navas's background and the adversity he handled so well on his way to the top. Navas was born in the town of San Isidro in the agricultural Perez Zeledon region in the south of Costa Rica, to working-class parents. When his mother and father emigrated to the United States, he was brought up by his grandfather and his early football experience was tough, with his local team Municipal Club Perez Zeledon rejecting him as being too small. He was forced to leave behind his small rural hometown and move to the capital San Jose at the age of 14 as he sought to get his opportunity with the country's most successful club, Deportivo Saprissa. At Saprissa, now 1.85 metres tall, the deeply Catholic Navas won six domestic league titles and the CONCACAF Champions League before moving to Albacete in Spain's second division, then Levante. His superb performances for Costa Rica in the 2014 World Cup won him worldwide recognition and persuaded Real to pay his buy-out fee to Levante and bring him to the Bernabeu. Despite the doubters, he has been a big part of a golden era for Real in European competition, cementing his status as one of the most successful players to emerge from Central America.

FIFA 2018: Keylor Navas' determined leadership will be central to Costa Rica's hopes in Russia

<p>Uruguay forward Luis Suarez took a nibble from Italy's Giorgio Chiellini shoulder and was suspended for four months from all football-related activities and also was handed a nine-match international suspension.</p>

<p>During Uruguay's final group game against Italy, the biting incident happened and became one of the most remembered incidents in the history of FIFA.</p>

<p>The match was eventually won by the South American side 1-0 and Uruguay progressed to the last 16, where they were beaten by Colombia.</p>

<p>This unusual incident was not happened the first time, biting Chiellini was third such instance in which Suarez sunk his teeth into an opponent while playing for Ajax and Liverpool.</p>

<p>Just after the World Cup on 11 July 2014, Suarez was transferred to FC Barcelona on a five-year contract for an undisclosed transfer fee.</p>

<p>Although Suarez thought his hopes of a switch to Catalonia had crumbled as a result of his actions at the World Cup in Brazil.</p>

<p>As the result of the suspension, he was banned from all "football-related activities" including training for Barcelona, for four months. He was also banned from entering any stadium, even as a spectator, during the same period and also missed 2015 Copa America.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Luis Suarez took a nibble from Italy's Giorgio Chiellini shoulder and was suspended for four months from all football-related activities

Uruguay forward Luis Suarez took a nibble from Italy's Giorgio Chiellini shoulder and was suspended for four months from all football-related activities and also was handed a nine-match international suspension. During Uruguay's final group game against Italy, the biting incident happened and became one of the most remembered incidents in the history of FIFA. The match was eventually won by the South American side 1-0 and Uruguay progressed to the last 16, where they were beaten by Colombia. This unusual incident was not happened the first time, biting Chiellini was third such instance in which Suarez sunk his teeth into an opponent while playing for Ajax and Liverpool. Just after the World Cup on 11 July 2014, Suarez was transferred to FC Barcelona on a five-year contract for an undisclosed transfer fee. Although Suarez thought his hopes of a switch to Catalonia had crumbled as a result of his actions at the World Cup in Brazil. As the result of the suspension, he was banned from all "football-related activities" including training for Barcelona, for four months. He was also banned from entering any stadium, even as a spectator, during the same period and also missed 2015 Copa America. Watch the video here: ×

Throwback to Luis Suarez's biting Chiellini in FIFA 2014: 'Anyone got a toothpick, Chiellini stuck in my teeth'

<p>The madness has begun for one of the biggest sporting events on earth -&nbspfootball World Cup. FIFA 2018 is the 21st edition of football World Cup which is being hosted by Russia and will start from June 14.</p>

<p>The winner will be awarded the famous gold trophy. Since, the inception of&nbspFIFA World Cup association football tournament in 1930, two trophies have been used, the first is the Jules Rimet Trophy from 1930 to 1970 and the other is the FIFA World Cup Trophy which has been passed down since 1974.</p>

<p>The question most football fanatics cannot fathom is why was trophy changed in 1974?</p>

<p>Jules Rimet Trophy was originally named 'Victory' because the Cup was supported by a winged figure representing Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory but later was renamed in the honour of former FIFA president Jules Rimet.</p>

<p>It was made of gold plated sterling silver and lapis lazuli and depicted Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.</p>

<p>Designed by Abel Lafleur, a French sculptor, the trophy stood 35 centimetres high and weighed 3.8 kilograms.</p>

<p>On 20 March 1966, four months before the 1966 FIFA World Cup in England, the Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen during a public exhibition at Westminster Central Hall. Although, seven days later the trophy was somehow recovered from south London.</p>

<p>But the fate of the famous trophy did not last long&nbspafter Brazil won the World Cup in 1970 and the trophy was kept on the display at the Brazilian Football Confederation headquarters in Rio de Janerio.&nbsp</p>

<p>In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered. It is believed that the trophy was melted and sold. Only the original base was recovered which is kept at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich.</p>

<p>Later, the trophy was replaced in the year 1974 by the famous hand-and-ball sculpture which was designed by Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga. The trophy stands 36.5 centimetres tall and is made of 5 kg of gold.</p>

<p>West Germany became the first nation to win the new trophy in 1974 beating Holland in a thrilling final at home.&nbsp</p>

<p>This time, defending champions Germany will join hosts Russia, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, England, France, Iceland, Iran, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia and Uruguay.</p>


In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered

The madness has begun for one of the biggest sporting events on earth -&nbspfootball World Cup. FIFA 2018 is the 21st edition of football World Cup which is being hosted by Russia and will start from June 14. The winner will be awarded the famous gold trophy. Since, the inception of&nbspFIFA World Cup association football tournament in 1930, two trophies have been used, the first is the Jules Rimet Trophy from 1930 to 1970 and the other is the FIFA World Cup Trophy which has been passed down since 1974. The question most football fanatics cannot fathom is why was trophy changed in 1974? Jules Rimet Trophy was originally named 'Victory' because the Cup was supported by a winged figure representing Nike, the ancient Greek goddess of victory but later was renamed in the honour of former FIFA president Jules Rimet. It was made of gold plated sterling silver and lapis lazuli and depicted Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. Designed by Abel Lafleur, a French sculptor, the trophy stood 35 centimetres high and weighed 3.8 kilograms. On 20 March 1966, four months before the 1966 FIFA World Cup in England, the Jules Rimet Trophy was stolen during a public exhibition at Westminster Central Hall. Although, seven days later the trophy was somehow recovered from south London. But the fate of the famous trophy did not last long&nbspafter Brazil won the World Cup in 1970 and the trophy was kept on the display at the Brazilian Football Confederation headquarters in Rio de Janerio. In 1983, the original Jules Rimet trophy was stolen from the display window and never recovered. It is believed that the trophy was melted and sold. Only the original base was recovered which is kept at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. Later, the trophy was replaced in the year 1974 by the famous hand-and-ball sculpture which was designed by Italian artist Silvio Gazzaniga. The trophy stands 36.5 centimetres tall and is made of 5 kg of gold. West Germany became the first nation to win the new trophy in 1974 beating Holland in a thrilling final at home. This time, defending champions Germany will join hosts Russia, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, England, France, Iceland, Iran, Japan, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia and Uruguay.

FIFA 2018: Do you know that first FIFA trophy was stolen and never recovered

<h2>WION's pick of the week</h2>

<h5 title="Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-ipl-2018--how-hyderabad-under-kane-williamson-is-blossoming-136143">Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming</a></strong></h5>

<p>42nd match of this year Indian Premier League, played between Hyderabad and Delhi at Firozshah Kotla Delhi on 10th May 2018 as one of the most special encounters this season</p>

<h5 title="Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers horrific crash in Spanish GP practice"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397">Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397"><strong>horrific</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-brendon-hartley-suffers-horrific-crash-in-spanish-gp-practice-136397"> crash in Spanish GP practice</a></strong></h5>

<p>Brendon Hartley lost control of his Toro Rosso car at Turn Nine and smashed into the barriers during Practice Three for Spanish Grand Prix</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Will <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendonHartley?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrendonHartley</a>'s car be ready for qualifying after this big shunt in FP3?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpanishGP?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpanishGP</a> ?? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZEGViMxJjS">pic.twitter.com/ZEGViMxJjS</a></p>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/995277552695439362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/petra-kvitova-clinches-madrid-open-title-136490">Petra Kvitova clinches Madrid Open title</a></strong></p>

<p>10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time</p>

<p><img alt="Petra Kvitova (2)_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Petra%20Kvitova%20(2)_0.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caught-on-cam-ms-dhoni-threatens-ravindra-jadeja-in-ipl-match-against-hyderabad-136574">Caught on cam: MS Dhoni threatens Ravindra Jadeja in IPL match against Hyderabad</a></strong></p>

<p>A hilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when MS Dhoni gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja</p>

<p><img alt="MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/MS%20Dhoni%20and%20Ravindra%20Jadeja.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<h5 title="In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics:-mohamed-salah-clinches-premier-league's-player-of-the-year-prize-136594">In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize">Mohamed Salah scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term</h5>

<h5 title="Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/zverev-outplays-thiem-to-win-madrid-masters-136689">Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters">Dominic Thiem lost to Alexander&nbsp;Zverev&nbsp;in the Madrid Masters final</h5>

<p><img alt="Alexander Zverev.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Alexander%20Zverev.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>FIFA 2018</h2>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-all-you-need-to-know-about-21st-edition-of-football-world-cup-136657">FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup</a></strong></h5>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup">The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world</h5>

<p title="Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/major-blow-to-brazil-as-dani-alves-ruled-out-of-fifa-2018-136210"><strong>Major</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/major-blow-to-brazil-as-dani-alves-ruled-out-of-fifa-2018-136210"> blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018</a></strong></strong></p>

<p title="Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018">The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury</p>

<p><img alt="000_14S5UY.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/000_14S5UY.jpg" width="770" /></p>

<h5 title="Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-jr-feels-fear-ahead-of-his-return-for-fifa-2018-136331">Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018</a></strong></h5>

<p>Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Football</h2>

<h5 title="After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/after-22-years-wenger-leaves-arsenal-probably-england-too-136618">After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too</a></strong></h5>

<p>When asked, Wenger said the prospect of him managing another Premier League club was unlikely</p>

<h5 title="Chelsea miss out on Champions League"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-miss-out-on-champions-league-136596">Chelsea miss out on Champions League</a></strong></h5>

<p>Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle</p>

<h5 title="Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mesut-ozil-out-with-a-back-injury-but-expects-to-be-fit-for-world-cup-135393">Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup</a></strong></h5>

<p>Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is suffering back injury</p>

<h5 title="Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chinese-super-league-club-chongqing-lifan-denies-iniesta-move-135417">Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move</a></strong></h5>

<p>Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta</p>

<h5 title="FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018-france-defender-laurent-koscielny-out-with-achilles-injury-135483">FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury</a></strong></h5>

<p>France defender Laurent Koscielny will miss the FIFA World Cup and faces six months out after undergoing surgery on an Achilles tendon injury</p>

<h5 title="Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manuel-neuer-ruled-out-of-german-cup-final-135744">Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018</a></strong></h5>

<p>Manuel Neuer has been sidelined by a fractured foot since September and is running out of time to be fit for Germany's opening World Cup match against Mexico</p>

<h5 title="Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/sex-concentration-and-goals-key-to-world-cup-glory-romario-tells-jesus-135971">Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus</a></strong></h5>

<p>Gabriel Jesus may be apprehensive about next month’s World Cup</p>

<h5 title="Chelsea charged for referee confrontation"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-charged-for-referee-confrontation-136151">Chelsea charged for referee confrontation</a></strong></h5>

<p>The draw with Huddersfield dampened Chelsea's hopes of securing a top-four finish in the league this season</p>

<h5 title="Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arda-turan-gets-16-game-ban-for-pushing-and-abusing-referee-136158">Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee</a></strong></h5>

<p>Turkish football authorities on Thursday banned the country's best-known player&nbsp;Arda&nbsp;Turan</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Cricket</h2>

<h5 title="Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli
"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-to-lead-india-in-afghanistan-test-karun-nair-replaces-virat-kohli-135553">Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli</a></strong></h5>

<p>Rahane, however, he has been left out of the 16-man ODI squad for the three-match series in England in July</p>

<h5 title="Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL 
  "><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ambati-rayudu-returns-to-india-odi-squad-after-impressive-performance-in-ipl----135555">Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL</a></strong></h5>

<p>Virat Kohli will be leading the side</p>

<h5 title="Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-confusion-bcci-names-skipper-for-ireland-t20s-despite-county-commitments-135565">Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments</a></strong></h5>

<p>India are set to play two T20's against Ireland in Dublin's Malahide on June 27 and 29</p>

<h5 title="Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shoaib-malik-wants-to-play-until-upcoming-world-t20-135690">Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20</a></strong></h5>

<p>Malik played 35 tests for Pakistan and has represented the team in 261 one-day internationals and 95 Twenty20 matches</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Others</h2>

<h5 title="Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-french-open-campaign-in-doubt-after-another-withdrawal-135707">Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal</a></strong></h5>

<p>The 36-year-old returned to action in March</p>

<h5 title="World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/world-snooker-championship-2018-mark-williams-sealed-third-world-snooker-title-135421">World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title</a></strong></h5>

<p>Welshman secures third world championship with an 18-16 victory</p>

<h5 title="Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-inzamam-ul-haqs-nephew-imams-comedy-of-errors-get-his-partner-run-out-135507">Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out</a></strong></h5>

<p>The dismissal gave everyone a sense of 'deja vu'. Inzamam was run out 40 times in his ODI career</p>


Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (May 7 to May 13)

WION's pick of the week Opinion: IPL 2018 - How Hyderabad under Kane Williamson is blossoming 42nd match of this year Indian Premier League, played between Hyderabad and Delhi at Firozshah Kotla Delhi on 10th May 2018 as one of the most special encounters this season Watch: Brendon Hartley suffers horrific crash in Spanish GP practice Brendon Hartley lost control of his Toro Rosso car at Turn Nine and smashed into the barriers during Practice Three for Spanish Grand Prix Will @BrendonHartley's car be ready for qualifying after this big shunt in FP3?#SpanishGP ?? #F1 pic.twitter.com/ZEGViMxJjS — Formula 1 (@F1) May 12, 2018 × Petra Kvitova clinches Madrid Open title 10th seed Petra Kvitova won the Madrid Open title for the third time Caught on cam: MS Dhoni threatens Ravindra Jadeja in IPL match against Hyderabad A hilarious incident happened in the seventh over of the first innings when MS Dhoni gestured to throw on the face of Ravindra Jadeja In pics: Mohamed Salah clinches Premier League's Player of the Year prize Mohamed Salah scored 43 goals in 50 games in all competitions for Liverpool this term Zverev outplays Thiem to win Madrid Masters Dominic Thiem lost to Alexander Zverev in the Madrid Masters final FIFA 2018 FIFA 2018: All you need to know about 21st edition of football World Cup The mega event hosted by Russia will be keenly followed by thousands of fans around the world Major blow to Brazil as Dani Alves ruled out of FIFA 2018 The Brazilian football federation (CBF) has confirmed it that Brazil right-back Dani Alves has been ruled out of the FIFA 2018 due to a knee injury Neymar Jr feels 'fear' ahead of his return for FIFA 2018 Brazil legend Zico's YouTube channel, Neymar said he is in a race against time to get mentally ready for the tournament in Russia Football After 22 years Wenger leaves Arsenal, probably England too When asked, Wenger said the prospect of him managing another Premier League club was unlikely Chelsea miss out on Champions League Chelsea were denied a place in next season's Champions League when they were well beaten 3-0 at Newcastle Mesut Ozil out with a back injury but expects to be fit for World Cup Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil is suffering back injury Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta FIFA 2018: France defender Koscielny out with Achilles injury France defender Laurent Koscielny will miss the FIFA World Cup and faces six months out after undergoing surgery on an Achilles tendon injury Manuel Neuer ruled out of German Cup final, doubts over FIFA 2018 Manuel Neuer has been sidelined by a fractured foot since September and is running out of time to be fit for Germany's opening World Cup match against Mexico Sex, concentration and goals key to World Cup glory: Romario tells Jesus Gabriel Jesus may be apprehensive about next month’s World Cup Chelsea charged for referee confrontation The draw with Huddersfield dampened Chelsea's hopes of securing a top-four finish in the league this season Arda Turan gets 16-game ban for pushing and abusing referee Turkish football authorities on Thursday banned the country's best-known player Arda Turan Cricket Ajinkya Rahane to lead India in Afghanistan Test, Karun Nair replaces Virat Kohli Rahane, however, he has been left out of the 16-man ODI squad for the three-match series in England in July Ambati Rayudu returns to India ODI squad after impressive performance in IPL Virat Kohli will be leading the side Kohli confusion: BCCI names skipper for Ireland T20s despite county commitments India are set to play two T20's against Ireland in Dublin's Malahide on June 27 and 29 Shoaib Malik wants to play until upcoming World T20 Malik played 35 tests for Pakistan and has represented the team in 261 one-day internationals and 95 Twenty20 matches Others Serena Williams' French Open campaign in doubt after another withdrawal The 36-year-old returned to action in March World Snooker Championship 2018: Mark Williams sealed third world snooker title Welshman secures third world championship with an 18-16 victory Watch: Comedy of errors as Inzamam-ul-Haq's nephew Imam gets his partner run out The dismissal gave everyone a sense of 'deja vu'. Inzamam was run out 40 times in his ODI career

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

<h2>WION's pick of the week</h2>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics:-champions-manchester-city-celebrate-with-epl-trophy-135146#photo-135140">Champions Manchester City lift EPL trophy</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="Manchester City (8)_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Manchester%20City%20(8)_0.jpg" width="770" /></p>

<p title="Opinion: MS Dhoni's return to form is major takeaway from IPL 2018"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/opinion-ms-dhonis-return-to-form-is-major-takeaway-from-ipl-2018-134604">Opinion: MS Dhoni's return to form is major takeaway from IPL 2018</a></strong></p>

<p title="IPL players who deserve a chance in Indian Cricket Team "><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-players-who-deserve-a-chance-in-indian-cricket-team--134966">IPL players who deserve a chance in Indian Cricket Team</a></strong></p>

<p title="Manchester City players show how NOT to celebrate after winning EPL"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-players-show-how-not-to-celebrate-after-winning-epl-135231">Manchester City players show how NOT to celebrate after winning EPL</a></strong></p>

<p>When the mid-fielder Yaya Toure arrived on the stage to collect the trophy, his fellow teammates jumped on him and a blooper happened</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My favorite video from yesterday's presentation. City players drop the PL trophy and react as if someone dropped a bomb. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/NYhegUdPJm">pic.twitter.com/NYhegUdPJm</a></p>
— Adil (@adilkhalil_) <a href="https://twitter.com/adilkhalil_/status/993334268700045317?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/turkey-football-fan-banned-from-stadium-rents-crane-to-watch-game-133692">Watch: Ban can't deter this Turkey football fan, rents crane to watch </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/turkey-football-fan-banned-from-stadium-rents-crane-to-watch-game-133692"><strong>game</strong></a></p>

<p>A football fan banned from the Denizli Atatürk Stadium in Denizli, Turkey rented a crane to watch a match<br />
<br />
<strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/el-clasico-not-so-classic-list-of-incidents-where-referee-got-it-wrong-135194">'El Clasico' not so classic: Other times the referee got it wrong</a></strong></p>

<p>The Barcelona-Real clash Sunday night saw 28 fouls, one grabbing of the neck, one red card, and eight yellows</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>IPL 2018</h2>

<p title="Watch: Another fan breaches security to meet MS Dhoni, touches feet"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-another-fan-breaches-security-to-meet-ms-dhoni-touches-feet-134946">Watch: Another fan breaches security to meet MS Dhoni, touches feet</a></strong></p>

<p>MS Dhoni's fans and followers never fail to show their love and affection and recently an incident happened that will prove that fans' love for MSD is unconditional</p>

<p><img alt="ms dhoni.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ms%20dhoni.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="IPL 2018: Lasith Malinga given ultimatum to leave IPL and return home "><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-lasith-malinga-given-ultimatum-to-leave-ipl-and-return-home--134257">IPL 2018: Lasith Malinga given ultimatum to leave IPL and return home</a></strong></p>

<p>The pacer stated that he would not be returning to the island until the end of the IPL 2018</p>

<p title="IPL 2018: Big-money players disappoint with small performances"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-big-money-players-disappoint-with-small-performances-134212">IPL 2018: Big-money players disappoint with small performances</a></strong></p>

<p>Several players have not stood up to their billing this season</p>

<p title="IPL 2018: Like football, IPL gets mid-season transfer window"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-like-football-ipl-gets-mid-season-transfer-window-133839">IPL 2018: Like football, IPL gets mid-season transfer window</a></strong></p>

<p>The transfer window allows teams from different leagues to buy and sell players</p>

<p title="Watch: Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out during Chennai vs Delhi clash
"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-dhoni-ambati-rayudus-comical-run-out-during-chennai-vs-delhi-clash-134018">Watch: Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out during Chennai vs Delhi clash</a> </strong></p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>FIFA 2018</h2>

<h2><img alt="fifa 2018 Russia_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/fifa%202018%20Russia_0.jpg" width="770" /></h2>

<p title="FIFA 2018 | Schedule, venue, timings, participating countries, squad list"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2018--schedule-venue-timings-participating-countries-squad-list-134023">FIFA 2018 | Schedule, venue, timings, participating countries, squad list</a></strong></p>

<p>All you need to know about FIFA World Cup 2018</p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hands-up-for-your-colors-represent-your-country-raise-your-flag-says-the-anthem-of-fifa-2018-133851">'Hands up for your </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hands-up-for-your-colors-represent-your-country-raise-your-flag-says-the-anthem-of-fifa-2018-133851"><strong>colours</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hands-up-for-your-colors-represent-your-country-raise-your-flag-says-the-anthem-of-fifa-2018-133851">... raise your flag,' says FIFA 2018 anthem</a></strong></p>

<p>The song 'Colors' is written by an American singer-songwriter, Jason Derulo. The song is serving the purpose of anthem for FIFA 2018</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Football</h2>

<p title="Gerard Pique asked Barca staff members to give guard of honour as Real Madrid snubbed"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-asked-barca-staff-members-to-give-guard-of-honour-as-real-madrid-snubbed-135216">Gerard Pique asked Barca staff members to give </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-asked-barca-staff-members-to-give-guard-of-honour-as-real-madrid-snubbed-135216"><strong>guard</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-asked-barca-staff-members-to-give-guard-of-honour-as-real-madrid-snubbed-135216"> of </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-asked-barca-staff-members-to-give-guard-of-honour-as-real-madrid-snubbed-135216"><strong>honour</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/gerard-pique-asked-barca-staff-members-to-give-guard-of-honour-as-real-madrid-snubbed-135216"> as Real Madrid snubbed</a></strong></p>

<p>Recently, Zinedine Zidane said that Real Madrid will not give La Liga champions Barcelona a guard of honour when the sides meet in El Clasico</p>

<p><img alt="barcelona.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/barcelona.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="Arsenal thrash Burnley 5-0 to win Wenger's final home game"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-thrash-burnley-5-0-to-win-wengers-final-home-game-135092">Arsenal thrash Burnley 5-0 to win Wenger's final home game</a></strong></p>

<p>Arsene&nbsp;Wenger received&nbsp;the kind of tribute he would have wanted in his final home game after 22 years in charge</p>

<p title="El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in ill-tempered draw"><img alt="el classico.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/el%20classico.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in ill-tempered draw"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/clasico-real-madrid-barcelona-tie-ends-in-ill-tempered-draw-135039">El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/clasico-real-madrid-barcelona-tie-ends-in-ill-tempered-draw-135039"><strong>ill-tempered</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/clasico-real-madrid-barcelona-tie-ends-in-ill-tempered-draw-135039"> draw</a></strong></p>

<p>Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later</p>

<p title="Diego Simeone calls on UEFA to change away-goals rule"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-simeone-calls-on-uefa-to-change-away-goals-rule-134835">Diego Simeone calls on UEFA to change away-goals rule</a></strong></p>

<p>Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has called on UEFA to change the away-goals rule, suggesting sides playing the second leg away have an unfair advantage under current regulations</p>

<p title="Steven Gerrard named manager of Scottish club Rangers"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steven-gerrard-named-manager-of-scottish-club-rangers-134685">Steven Gerrard named manager of Scottish club Rangers</a></strong></p>

<p>Scottish club Rangers named former Liverpool and England midfielder&nbsp;Steven&nbsp;Gerrard as their manager on a four-year deal</p>

<p><img alt="StevenGerrard_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/StevenGerrard_0.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="Europa League: Wenger denied final flourish as Atletico Madrid's Costa outlasts Arsenal"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-wenger-denied-final-flourish-as-atletico-madrids-costa-outlasts-arsenal-134491">Europa League: Wenger denied final flourish as Atletico Madrid's Costa outlasts Arsenal</a></strong></p>

<p>Atletico victory was sweeter as coach Diego Simeone sat out the match after being banned for his rant</p>

<p title="Champions League: Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich to reach final for third year in a row"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-beat-munich-to-reach-final-for-third-year-in-a-row-134109">Champions League: Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich to reach final for </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-beat-munich-to-reach-final-for-third-year-in-a-row-134109"><strong>third</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-real-madrid-beat-munich-to-reach-final-for-third-year-in-a-row-134109"> year in a row</a></strong></p>

<p>Real Madrid will meet either Liverpool or AS Roma in the final in Kiev on May 26</p>

<p title="Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-edge-out-as-roma-to-meet-real-madrid-in-final-134295">Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final</a></strong></p>

<p>Liverpool last won the coverted trophy in 2005 and made it to the finals in 2007</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/salah-voted-englands-footballer-of-the-year-134003">Mohamed Salah voted England's Footballer of the Year</a></strong></p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Cricket</h2>

<p title="Replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul as opener in Indian Cricket team, demand fans "><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/replace-rohit-sharma-with-kl-rahul-as-opener-in-indian-cricket-team-demand-fans--135204">Replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul as </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/replace-rohit-sharma-with-kl-rahul-as-opener-in-indian-cricket-team-demand-fans--135204"><strong>opener</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/replace-rohit-sharma-with-kl-rahul-as-opener-in-indian-cricket-team-demand-fans--135204"> in Indian Cricket team, demand fans</a></strong></p>

<p title="Shreyas Iyer to replace Virat Kohli for India-Afghanistan Test 
"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-to-replace-virat-kohli-for-india-afghanistan-test--135213">Shreyas Iyer to replace Virat Kohli for India-Afghanistan Test</a></strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/worried-about-banned-steve-smith-david-warner-and-cameron-bancroft-darren-lehmann-135003">Worried about banned Smith, Warner </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/worried-about-banned-steve-smith-david-warner-and-cameron-bancroft-darren-lehmann-135003"><strong>and</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/worried-about-banned-steve-smith-david-warner-and-cameron-bancroft-darren-lehmann-135003"> Cameron: Darren Lehmann</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that all&nbsp;three players are fantastic and have paid the price for their deeds</p>

<p><img alt="Darren Lehmann.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Darren%20Lehmann.jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="Virat Kohli signs up with Surrey for county cricket ahead of India series in England"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-signs-surrey-in-english-county-ahead-of-india-series-in-england-134461">Virat Kohli signs up with Surrey for county cricket ahead of India series in England</a></strong></p>

<p>The India captain will feature in three County Championship matches and three one-day cup game</p>

<p title="Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik to represent ICC World XI in Lord's"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-dinesh-karthik-to-represent-icc-world-xi-in-lords-134407">Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik to represent ICC World XI in Lord's</a></strong></p>

<p>The ICC World XI is set to take place on May 31st in Lord's stadium, London</p>

<p title="Justin Langer to be new coach of Australia"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298">Justin Langer to be </a></strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298"><strong>new</strong></a><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/justin-langer-to-be-new-coach-of-australia-134298"> coach of Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Langer's first coaching test will begin next month when Australia takes on England at home in an ODI series next month.</p>

<p title="India consolidate top spot in ICC Test team rankings"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-consolidate-top-spot-in-icc-test-team-rankings-133983">India consolidate top spot in ICC Test team rankings</a></strong></p>

<p>In the ICC's annual update, the series results from 2014-15 are removed and outcomes from the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons are weighted at 50 percent</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<h2>Others</h2>

<p title="Petra Kvitova beat Mihaela Buzarnescu to win first Prague title"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/petra-kvitova-beat-mihaela-buzarnescu-to-win-first-prague-title-134841">Petra Kvitova beat Mihaela Buzarnescu to win first Prague title</a></strong></p>

<p>Petra Kvitova won her third title of the year as she fought back from a set down to beat Romanian Mihaela Buzarnescu 4-6 6-2 6-3 in the Prague Open</p>

<p><img alt="Petra Kvitova (2).jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/Petra%20Kvitova%20(2).jpg" width="720" /></p>

<p title="Formula One approves aerodynamic rule changes for 2019"><strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-approves-aerodynamic-rule-changes-for-2019-133996">Formula One approves aerodynamic rule changes for 2019</a></strong></p>

<p>The measures include a simplified front wing with a larger span, front brake ducts without winglets and a wider and deeper rear wing</p>

<hr />
<hr />
<p>&nbsp;</p>


Weekly compilation of sports and other related news (April 30 to May 6)

WION's pick of the week Champions Manchester City lift EPL trophy Opinion: MS Dhoni's return to form is major takeaway from IPL 2018 IPL players who deserve a chance in Indian Cricket Team Manchester City players show how NOT to celebrate after winning EPL When the mid-fielder Yaya Toure arrived on the stage to collect the trophy, his fellow teammates jumped on him and a blooper happened My favorite video from yesterday's presentation. City players drop the PL trophy and react as if someone dropped a bomb. #MCFC pic.twitter.com/NYhegUdPJm — Adil (@adilkhalil_) May 7, 2018 × Watch: Ban can't deter this Turkey football fan, rents crane to watch game A football fan banned from the Denizli Atatürk Stadium in Denizli, Turkey rented a crane to watch a match 'El Clasico' not so classic: Other times the referee got it wrong The Barcelona-Real clash Sunday night saw 28 fouls, one grabbing of the neck, one red card, and eight yellows IPL 2018 Watch: Another fan breaches security to meet MS Dhoni, touches feet MS Dhoni's fans and followers never fail to show their love and affection and recently an incident happened that will prove that fans' love for MSD is unconditional IPL 2018: Lasith Malinga given ultimatum to leave IPL and return home The pacer stated that he would not be returning to the island until the end of the IPL 2018 IPL 2018: Big-money players disappoint with small performances Several players have not stood up to their billing this season IPL 2018: Like football, IPL gets mid-season transfer window The transfer window allows teams from different leagues to buy and sell players Watch: Dhoni, Ambati Rayudu's comical run-out during Chennai vs Delhi clash FIFA 2018 FIFA 2018 | Schedule, venue, timings, participating countries, squad list All you need to know about FIFA World Cup 2018 'Hands up for your colours... raise your flag,' says FIFA 2018 anthem The song 'Colors' is written by an American singer-songwriter, Jason Derulo. The song is serving the purpose of anthem for FIFA 2018 Football Gerard Pique asked Barca staff members to give guard of honour as Real Madrid snubbed Recently, Zinedine Zidane said that Real Madrid will not give La Liga champions Barcelona a guard of honour when the sides meet in El Clasico Arsenal thrash Burnley 5-0 to win Wenger's final home game Arsene Wenger received the kind of tribute he would have wanted in his final home game after 22 years in charge El Clasico: Real Madrid, Barcelona tie ends in ill-tempered draw Suarez appeared to have fouled Raphael Varane in the build-up to Messi's goal and the Uruguayan forward had a goal ruled out for offside three minutes later Diego Simeone calls on UEFA to change away-goals rule Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has called on UEFA to change the away-goals rule, suggesting sides playing the second leg away have an unfair advantage under current regulations Steven Gerrard named manager of Scottish club Rangers Scottish club Rangers named former Liverpool and England midfielder Steven Gerrard as their manager on a four-year deal Europa League: Wenger denied final flourish as Atletico Madrid's Costa outlasts Arsenal Atletico victory was sweeter as coach Diego Simeone sat out the match after being banned for his rant Champions League: Real Madrid beat Bayern Munich to reach final for third year in a row Real Madrid will meet either Liverpool or AS Roma in the final in Kiev on May 26 Champions League: Liverpool edge out AS Roma, to meet Real Madrid in final Liverpool last won the coverted trophy in 2005 and made it to the finals in 2007 × Mohamed Salah voted England's Footballer of the Year Cricket Replace Rohit Sharma with KL Rahul as opener in Indian Cricket team, demand fans Shreyas Iyer to replace Virat Kohli for India-Afghanistan Test Worried about banned Smith, Warner and Cameron: Darren Lehmann Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that all three players are fantastic and have paid the price for their deeds Virat Kohli signs up with Surrey for county cricket ahead of India series in England The India captain will feature in three County Championship matches and three one-day cup game Hardik Pandya, Dinesh Karthik to represent ICC World XI in Lord's The ICC World XI is set to take place on May 31st in Lord's stadium, London Justin Langer to be new coach of Australia Langer's first coaching test will begin next month when Australia takes on England at home in an ODI series next month. India consolidate top spot in ICC Test team rankings In the ICC's annual update, the series results from 2014-15 are removed and outcomes from the 2015-16 and 2016-17 seasons are weighted at 50 percent Others Petra Kvitova beat Mihaela Buzarnescu to win first Prague title Petra Kvitova won her third title of the year as she fought back from a set down to beat Romanian Mihaela Buzarnescu 4-6 6-2 6-3 in the Prague Open Formula One approves aerodynamic rule changes for 2019 The measures include a simplified front wing with a larger span, front brake ducts without winglets and a wider and deeper rear wing

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

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

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

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


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

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

Football World Cup friendlies: Argentina take on Italy

<p>Germany forward Thomas Mueller expects revenge to be a factor when his side take on Brazil for the first time since humiliating the South Americans 7-1 in the 2014 World Cup semi-finals.</p>

<p>Joachim Loew&#39;s Germany start fine-tuning preparations for their World Cup defence in Russia with high-profile friendlies against Spain in Duesseldorf on Friday and Brazil in Berlin next Tuesday.</p>

<p>Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, have the first chance to break Germany&#39;s 21-match unbeaten run, dating back to their Euro 2016 semi-final defeat by France.</p>

<p>However, the clash four days later at Berlin&#39;s Olympic Stadium offers Brazil a rare chance to beat Germany in their own backyard and avenge the hammering in Belo Horizonte almost four years ago.</p>

<p>&quot;Of course, you can imagine that the humiliation was great after losing a semi-final of a World Cup at home,&quot; said Mueller, who scored the first goal in that game.</p>

<p>&quot;Brazil is really a football-mad country and the pressure on them was huge. However, our journey wasn&#39;t over and for us it was just a step towards the final.&quot;</p>

<p>The Spain and Brazil games are head coach Loew&#39;s last chance to assess his options before naming his World Cup squad on May 15.</p>

<p><strong>Key decisions</strong></p>

<p>&quot;Two top matches await us -- we&#39;re up against superb teams. It&#39;s fun to compete with the best,&quot; added Bayern Munich forward Mueller. &quot;We all have the mentality that we always want to win, that&#39;s why we&#39;re the elite. The competition within the squad is a means to keep up the performance level. No one can afford to relax, everyone&#39;s challenged.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s not just that we have eight or 11 good players, more like 20 or 25.</p>

<p>&quot;It&#39;s a good situation for the coach to be in. But this is an opportunity to show what we can do against big opponents in big games.&quot;</p>

<p>However, big names are missing in the ranks of the four-time World Cup winners.</p>

<p>Borussia Dortmund pair Mario Goetze, who scored the winning goal in the 2014 final against Argentina, and Marco Reus were left out to focus on their club form.</p>

<p>Germany captain Manuel Neuer, who last played an international in October 2016, is still sidelined with a fractured foot he suffered in September.</p>

<p>Loew must also decide whether Sandro Wagner or Mario Gomez will go to Russia as the back-up to first-choice striker Timo Werner.</p>

<p>Likewise, Paris Saint-Germain&#39;s Kevin Trapp and Bernd Leno of Bayer Leverkusen are vying for the third goalkeeping berth behind first-choice Neuer and reserve Marc-Andre ter Stegen.</p>

<p>&quot;I am glad that I do not have to decide who will be going,&quot; Germany midfielder Sami Khedira admitted to magazine Sport Bild.</p>

<p>As the Juventus player acknowledges, there will be &quot;no free ticket&quot; to Russia for any German stars.</p>

<p>Liverpool midfielder Emre Can sat out training on Wednesday with slight back pain, while Bayern&#39;s Sebastian Rudy will join the squad late as he awaits the birth of his child.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Timings:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Germany vs Spain:</strong> Saturday March 24, 1,15 am IST</p>

<p><strong>Germany vs Brazil:</strong> Wednesday, March 28, 12.15 am IST</p>


Germany thrashed Brazil 7-1 the last time they met in the semifinal of the 2014 World Cup

Germany forward Thomas Mueller expects revenge to be a factor when his side take on Brazil for the first time since humiliating the South Americans 7-1 in the 2014 World Cup semi-finals. Joachim Loew's Germany start fine-tuning preparations for their World Cup defence in Russia with high-profile friendlies against Spain in Duesseldorf on Friday and Brazil in Berlin next Tuesday. Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, have the first chance to break Germany's 21-match unbeaten run, dating back to their Euro 2016 semi-final defeat by France. However, the clash four days later at Berlin's Olympic Stadium offers Brazil a rare chance to beat Germany in their own backyard and avenge the hammering in Belo Horizonte almost four years ago. "Of course, you can imagine that the humiliation was great after losing a semi-final of a World Cup at home," said Mueller, who scored the first goal in that game. "Brazil is really a football-mad country and the pressure on them was huge. However, our journey wasn't over and for us it was just a step towards the final." The Spain and Brazil games are head coach Loew's last chance to assess his options before naming his World Cup squad on May 15. Key decisions "Two top matches await us -- we're up against superb teams. It's fun to compete with the best," added Bayern Munich forward Mueller. "We all have the mentality that we always want to win, that's why we're the elite. The competition within the squad is a means to keep up the performance level. No one can afford to relax, everyone's challenged. "It's not just that we have eight or 11 good players, more like 20 or 25. "It's a good situation for the coach to be in. But this is an opportunity to show what we can do against big opponents in big games." However, big names are missing in the ranks of the four-time World Cup winners. Borussia Dortmund pair Mario Goetze, who scored the winning goal in the 2014 final against Argentina, and Marco Reus were left out to focus on their club form. Germany captain Manuel Neuer, who last played an international in October 2016, is still sidelined with a fractured foot he suffered in September. Loew must also decide whether Sandro Wagner or Mario Gomez will go to Russia as the back-up to first-choice striker Timo Werner. Likewise, Paris Saint-Germain's Kevin Trapp and Bernd Leno of Bayer Leverkusen are vying for the third goalkeeping berth behind first-choice Neuer and reserve Marc-Andre ter Stegen. "I am glad that I do not have to decide who will be going," Germany midfielder Sami Khedira admitted to magazine Sport Bild. As the Juventus player acknowledges, there will be "no free ticket" to Russia for any German stars. Liverpool midfielder Emre Can sat out training on Wednesday with slight back pain, while Bayern's Sebastian Rudy will join the squad late as he awaits the birth of his child. Timings: Germany vs Spain: Saturday March 24, 1,15 am IST Germany vs Brazil: Wednesday, March 28, 12.15 am IST

Football World Cup friendlies: Germany to take on Spain, Brazil

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WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

WION Sports News: Top sports results this week

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

Football World Cup friendlies: Argentina take on Italy

Football World Cup friendlies: Germany to take on Spain, Brazil