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2014 World Cup runner-up, Argentina, were held by Iceland. Playing their first ever World Cup, Iceland were the underdogs but still they managed to get a draw.  Argentina were certainly the more operating team and had the stats by their side but if it wasn't for Halldorsson who heroically saved a penalty struck by Messi, the Argentines would've won. From the beginning, Argentina were pressing high on the Icelanders but they didn't come through until Sergio Aguero thumped the ball into the back of the net in the 19th minute.  He scored his first WC goal for the white and blue colors. Within a matter of minutes, Iceland backfired with 3 continuous shots on goal but were denied by Caballero till Finnbogason scored a goal to give Iceland it's first ever World Cup goal. With the scores back level, Iceland did what they were notoriously known. They started playing defensively, leaving out no space for the Albiceleste to get through.  Argentina wer...

Cristiano Ronaldo scores a hat-trick to confine a strong Spain side 3-3 in their first group match on Friday. European Champions, Portugal were certainly not the favorites to win their group match against Spain but with the help of Ronaldo, they proved that they are as good as any other team in Russia. Spain's Diego Costa, having scored a brace, was overshadowed by the Real Madrid star. Portugal had the dream start and it looked like they were prepared for all tricks Spain used. Ronaldo earned a penalty in the 4th minute which he took full advantage of and gave Portugal a 1-0 lead.  Spain equalized with the help of their Centre Forward, Diego Costa in the 24th minute. Before entering the six-yard box, Costa pushed Pepe and the decision went towards VAR who allowed the goal. The Atletico Madrid star became the first player to be awarded goal through VAR.  As the game started leaning towards Spain before half-time, Portugal came right back in as Ronaldo scored his br...

When it comes to World Cup, no team can be underestimated though there are favorites. This time, it’s France, a squad filled with immaculate talent, to be the ones with more strength than any other team. French Football had been on a downfall after their shocking defeat in the 2006 WC final but over the last few years, it has rejoiced with some young players coming in. Despite the fact that their squad looks inexperienced and immature, they still play as finely as they can.           Stars like Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba were a part of the 0-1 defeat against Portugal in the Euro 2016 final. The defeat still teases them to be so close yet not champions. The French squad includes players like Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Oliver Giroud and Pogba, who are well known for their athletic display on the pitch and also for their record-breaking transfers. They are most likely the ones who can make a difference in the attack. Big names lik...

World Cup is the biggest event in Football- A competition with the greatest footballing Nations going against each other. But this time, it won't seem right to many fans as contenders like Italy and Netherlands failed to make it to Russia.  Azzurri Italy, a country crazy for football, has qualified for every World Cup in the last 60 years but not this time. The four-time World Champions missed out due to poor performances in qualifying. The Azzurri is a team filled with natural talent and an experienced defense.  Gianluigi Buffon, 40, had a season to forget as he couldn't lead his team to WC and also got a three-match ban for his acts in the quarterfinals of the Champions League. His absence from the mega-event will be a heartbreak for all die-hard football fans. Oranje     Netherlands have never won a World Cup but yet their presence in any event is remarkable as well as entertaining. With a star-studded squad including Arjen Robben, Van Dijk, De...

Three months ago, a fatal injury created doubts for the World's most expensive player to miss the biggest event in football but Neymar recovered and is going to make comeback for Brazil when they go up against Croatia on Sunday. Neymar's form would still be a concern for the Brazilians as they approach Russia but his teammate Fernandinho, gave a statement that the 26-year old has been improving day by day in training. Coach Tite has told that Neymar will start from the bench but is certainly going to be on the pitch at Anfield.  After the humiliation in the semifinal in Brazil, the Canarinho have shown their aspiration to go all the way in Russia. They are, as always, included in the favorites and have a star-studded squad, ready to give their best.    

Gareth Bale scores an incredible goal to take the Vikings ahead in the 64th minute. Zidane brought in Gareth Bale for Isco at the hour mark and it paid off as the Welshman went aerial and struck an unstoppable bicycle kick to shock the Liverpool side.

Sadio Mane was given a great chance in front of the goal and he nailed it into the back of the net. A flawless cross from Milner connecting to the head of Lovren who placed the ball where Mane wanted it, helped Liverpool gain an important equalizer in the 54th minute. The scores are balanced at 1-1.

A 'casual' throw from Karius was seen after the beginning of the second half, giving an easy chance to Benzema who directed the ball towards the goal-line in the 50th minute to get the Galacticos a 1-0  ahead of Liverpool.

Egyptian forward, Mohammed Salah was being forced off the field as he suffered an injury which might cost him the ticket to World Cup in Russia. Also, Carvajal, who plays as a right back for the Los Blancos, had to come off the park due to a hamstring injury. Salah was replaced by Lallana just after the half-hour mark. Nacho was brought on for Spanish International, Dani Carvajal, in the 37th minute. Losing one world-class player each in the first half due to injuries has led to a big issue for the managers who desperately want to win the most prestigious tournament in European club football.

Barcelona's quest to finish La Liga season unbeaten ends in surprise. Emmanuel Boateng's hat-trick helps Levante to defeat the Catalan club 5-4 in an highly exciting match.   FC Barcelona's hunt to become the 'Invincibles' this season was thwarted by an dazzling Levante side on Sunday in the Ciutat de Valencia stadium. Barca had wrapped up the Liga title two weeks ago, but Ernesto Valverde said his team were focused to become the first Spanish team to go unbeaten throughout the season since Real Madrid achieved the feat in 1931-32 season which only lasted 18 games. Five-time Ballon D'or winner, Lionel Messi was rested for the game as the Argentina National team demanded that he takes rest. Reports say that Messi was given time off the pitch so he can be fit for their friendly against South African champions, Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday. Levante got their hard fought and historic win. Ghanaian striker Boateng netted two early goals after which...

There are only a few people in this world who are remembered for a long time. Arsene Wenger is one of them and will always be recalled for his contribution to English football.  After enjoying 22 years of quality football with Arsenal in the top flight of the Premier League, Frenchman Arsene Wenger has decided to leave the North London club at the end of this season. Wenger has a match left to manage for his club which will be against Huddersfield on Sunday.  Wenger said that he wants to keep using his energy in football and so, he will continue to manage other clubs in the future. For now, he told the press that he wants to focus on his last game and is desperate to win it. The 68-year-old has been linked with Paris Saint-Germain where he might substitute Unai Emery. His replacement at Arsenal will be declared after the World Cup. Luis Enrique, former Barcelona player and manager, is the main option for them to hire. For his donation to the world of football, Prem...

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich will go head to head in the Bernabeu on Tuesday as the second leg of the Semi-finals goes underway. Bayern will be boosted by the return of their star player, Manuel Neuer. The German goalkeeper confronted a gruesome injury which proved fatal but is fit and ready to make a comeback now. Two of Bayern's star players, Robben and Boateng, will miss the match due to the injuries they suffered in the first leg.  For Madrid, Dani Carvajal is doubtful but Nacho, who has missed the past month's action due to a thigh injury is going to be included in the squad. Spanish international, Isco, will also miss the tie after failing to recover from a shoulder strain in time. Jepp Heynckes will try to improve his attacking play and will focus on improving the finishing as player like Kimmich and Ribery created many chances but were unsuccessful to find the net. Los Blancos will have a tough weekend as they travel to Camp Nou to go against La Liga winne...

Barcelona got the better of Deportivo La Coruna, winning 4-2 in a highly competitive match in Estadio Riazor on Sunday. Deportivo were in a desperate need of a win to avoid relegation in La Liga while the Catalan club were looking to seal a win and guarantee themselves the title. Barca won their 25th League title. Barcelona took off to a flying start when Coutinho and Messi put the ball in the back of the next in the 6th and 37th minute. Deportivo still had some hope left and Lucas Perez converted that hope into a goal as he was provided an incredible assist from Borja in the 40th minute. Deportivo were filled with excitement to break through the Barcelona defense in the second half and they did so as Colak equalized the score just after the hour-mark. Valverde's side looked weakened which forced him to bring some fresh legs on the pitch. Denis Suarez and Paulinho were brought in for Dembele and Coutinho respectively. Lionel Messi delivered two team goals in the 81st an...

Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta called a press conference on Friday to announce his departure from the Catalan club at the end of the season. His decision came as a shock to everyone including his teammates. He is set to join Chinese Super League outfit Chongquing Dangdai. Iniesta spent 16 seasons at Barcelona Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Barcelona and is their most decorated player along with Lionel Messi, having lifted 31 trophies which soon going to be 32 if Barcelona manage to clinch a point against Deportivo La Coruna and win La Liga on the weekend. Iniesta, 33, first hinted his withdrawal from the club after their Champions League Quarterfinal victory over Chelsea. Iniesta is one of the most loved footballers on the planet, especially for his goal which won Spain the World Cup in 2010. He also helped Spain win European Championship in 2008 and 2012. He is routinely given a standing ovation at many different stadiums in Spain whenever he is substitut...

The first leg of the Champions League semi-final went to Real Madrid's way as they triumphed 2-1 over Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Real scored two important away goals which can help them later in the second leg. Bayern dominated possession in the match but were only able to put the ball in the back of the net once. Bayern began the match in a flawless way but they were forced to make two early substitutions. Arjen Robben and Boateng had to leave the pitch in the 7th and 33rd minute respectively. Yet Bayern scored the opener in the 27th minute coming from the foot of Joshua Kimmich who was provided with a quality assist from James Rodriguez. Going 1-0 down, Real appeared to have lost control of the match but they didn't miss any chance to score. In the 44th minute, Marcelo struck a long ranger volley which left Bayern goalkeeper Ulreich stranded. The second half began with Marco Asensio coming on the pitch for Isco. Bayern were trying their best to occupy the mo...

Real Madrid will face German Champions, Bayern Munich in what expects to be a highly entertaining match. They will be looking to get one step closer to becoming Champions League winners for the 13th time. The match will be a repeat of 2017 Quarterfinals which was won by the Spanish Giants. Real Madrid have the upper hand in the match as they defeated French League  winners and Serie A leaders on their way to the semi-final. Bayern Manager, Heynckes has a big test ahead of him on Wednesday as he goes head-to-head against his former club. He managed the Los Blancos side and led them to Champions League glory in 1998. He has already won Champions League two times in the past. On the other hand, Zidane has faced criticism for a poor performance in La Liga and also for not capitalizing on their chances to score. Zidane expects that Heynckes will try to defend without conceding a goal throughout the game. Zidane has faced a headache choosing between Gareth Bale and Isco. The...

A.S. Roma will travel to Anfield on Tuesday to face Liverpool in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final. Roma have been in sizzling form in their past games as they defeated La Liga leaders, Barcelona in the Quarterfinal while Liverpool too have executed huge teams like Manchester City and Porto. Roma are looking for a payback of their last defeat against Liverpool in the European Cup Final of 1984 which ended in the penalties. The Italian titans will be going up against their former player, Mo Salah who won the PFA's Player of the Year award a few days ago. Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp said that Salah would understand early in the game that the Romans aren't his teammates anymore. Klopp has been happy with his team's performance and is very confident that they will reach the final. Liverpool are the only team this season who have not lost a single match in the Champions League. Dzeko is in exceptional form and has been a hero for A.S. Roma many ...

The 2017-18 season is almost coming to an end and all eyes are on the Champions League. Real Madrid have been drawn against already Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich while Liverpool will have a face-off with Roma in a repeat of the 1984 Champions League final. Liverpool and Roma are the surprise packs of this season who defeated Manchester City and Barcelona respectively. The Los Blancos side will be looking to reach the final and win their 13th Champions League title. Liverpool will be counting on their front trio to seal off a win for them in the Semifinal. Zinedine Zidane's Real Madrid will travel to Munich for the first leg on 25th April whereas Liverpool will host Roma on 24th. Zidane will be relying on his star forward, Cristiano Ronaldo who is the top goalscorer in the Champions League. Arturo Vidal won't be able to confront the Madrid side as he is injured and will also be out for at least two months. Meanwhile, Mohammed Salah will play against his former c...

On Saturday, Barcelona prevailed over Valencia 2-1 in a La Liga match. The Catalan club broke the record of an unbeaten streak in La Liga. The record was held by Real Sociedad with a 38-match unbeaten streak. Barcelona are six points close from guaranteeing themselves a La Liga title with seven matches to go and a Copa Del Rey final. Valverde's side has not been impressive in the Champions League and suffered a shock defeat to A.S. Roma in the Quarterfinal. Barcelona started with an early goal from Luis Suarez through an impressive assist from Coutinho in the 15th minute. The first half went on to be not so exciting after the first goal. In the second half, Umtiti headed the ball into the back of the net from a corner assist by Coutinho in the 51st minute and gained a comfortable lead over Los Che. Coutinho has not been in a fascinating form since his arrival from Liverpool. He certainly impressed the Camp Nou fans on Saturday and got good applause after he was substituted for...

Kidambi Srikanth became the second male shuttler ever to achieve the World No. 1 spot when BWF updated the Rankings on Thursday. The Indian Ace had been sitting on 2nd spot for more than a month. He was in an exceptional form for the past few months, winning four Superseries titles in 2017 including Indonesia Open. Following the footsteps of Pullela Gopichand, Srikanth has made his reputation as a giant killer in the sport. Before this, only Prakash Padukone could achieve this feat in 1980, the year in which he won the All England Championship. The 25-year old Indian celebrated his No. 1 spot by shocking 3-time Olympic Silver medalist, Lee Chong Wei and helped the Indian team clinch a gold medal for the first time in the final of Mixed team event at the Commonwealth Games. It was Pullela Gopichand who helped transform him from a doubles player to a singles winner. Gopichand admitted that achieving the top spot was just a beginning for Srikanth, who if brings in consistency, would ...

Liverpool slammed Manchester City 5-1 on aggregate in the Quarterfinal of the Champions League and guaranteed themselves a spot in the semifinal. Being second favorites to win their away leg in Etihad Stadium, Liverpool still managed to win with a score of 2-1. Manchester City have seen a series of defeats as they went down fighting to United in the Manchester Derby and to Liverpool in the Champions League.  Manchester City started with a purpose to win the match and scored an early goal coming from the foot of Gabriel Jesus in the 2nd minute. After going 1-0 up, City went full on with their attack but they couldn't get rid of the Liverpool defense. The second half saw Manchester City constantly maintaining possession yet Liverpool went 2-1 ahead of the Premier League leaders with a strike from Salah in the 56th minute and Firmino in the 77th minute. Though Pep Guardiola brought on Aguero in the 66th minute, the Sky Blues couldn't make the better of Jurgen Klopp's s...

Juventus were defeated by Real Madrid who were already leading 3-0 after the first leg on aggregate.  Juventus managed to win the second leg in Madrid 3-1 but were knocked out of the competition due to a 3-4 score in the favor of Real Madrid on aggregate. Some might say that Juventus won the battle last night but lost the war. Gianluigi Buffon was sent off for arguing with the referee about the penalty which was given to Real Madrid. The Italian said that referee Micheal Oliver had a trash bin instead of a heart.  The Old Lady showed their determination to win at the very beginning of the match when Mario Mandzukic opened the scoring in the 2nd minute. Real Madrid with a goal down started playing possessive football and it certainly paid off for a long time in the first half. Lichsteiner gave an impressive assist to find the head of Mandzukic which helped Juventus go 2-0 up in the 37th minute.With his side trailing 2-0, Zidane made two substitutions which included...

Roma came from 1-4 down on aggregate and defeated uninspired Barcelona 3-0 in the second leg at the Stadio Olimpico. Barcelona, who had a comfortable 4-1 lead from the first leg, were favorites to advance to the semifinal but an amazing Roma side ensured that the Catalan club won't boost into the semis. Roma, having scored a goal in the away leg, won on the basis of away goals. Roma had made the La Liga leaders aware of their strength from the very beginning of the match when Dzeko scored the first goal in the 6th minute. After that, Barcelona had a clear strategy to defend and not let the ball slide in and they kept it that way until Gerard Pique gave away a penalty to Roma in the 58th minute which was put into the back of the net by De Rossi. Soon after, Barcelona started attacking aggressively and created a lot of chances but Roma goalkeeper, Allison, didn't let the ball cross the goal line. Roma didn't lose any hopes and scored their third goal in the 82nd minute c...

Real Madrid had to settle for 1-1 draw at home to city rivals, Atletico Madrid as Antoine Griezmann struck in time to cancel out Cristiano Ronaldo's opener for Los Blancos. Real had the most of the possession of the ball throughout the match but were unable to clinch three points in the Derby. Zinedine Zidane took a risk and played Ronaldo which paid off as the Portuguese scored the opener in the 53rd minute from a fantastic assist from Gareth Bale. But Real couldn't hold on to the lead and eventually, the defense started to break by giving Atletico the opportunity to score which was not left by Antoine Griezmann who leveled the score in the 58th minute. Zidane substituted Ronaldo as he wanted him fresh for the second leg against Juventus in the Quarterfinal match of the Champions League. Meanwhile, Atletico will travel to Lisbon to face Sporting in the Europa League, having won the first leg 2-0.