SPORTING

‎Cristiano Ronaldo is facing a wave of criticism from football fans around the world after Al-Nassr were knocked out of the AFC Champions League semi-finals by Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. Despite Ronaldo's prolific run in the tournament — netting eight goals in as many games — the Portuguese icon failed to deliver when it mattered most in the 3-2 defeat, extending his trophy drought in Saudi Arabia. ‎ ‎' Cristiano Ronaldo. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Al-Nassr’s hopes of continental glory were dashed in a single-legged semi-final clash, with goals from Sadio Mané and Ayman Yahya proving insufficient against the J1 League side’s clinical edge. Kawasaki's resilience and sharp finishing exposed weaknesses in Al-Nassr’s defense, and the team now exits the competition without silverware once again. ‎ ‎Ronaldo, who has scored 91 goals in 102 appearances since joining the Saudi club, was expected to be a decisive figure. However, his quiet performance in this crucial fi...

‎Lionel Messi, often hailed as the greatest footballer in history, commands not only accolades on the field but a fortune off it. As of 2025, Messi's net worth is estimated at $850 million, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in modern history. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1987, Messi overcame early health challenges and financial hardship to become a global icon. After joining FC Barcelona in his teens, he amassed 672 goals in 778 appearances. His record-breaking contracts, including a 2017 Barcelona deal worth an average of $168 million per year, cemented his place at the pinnacle of sports earnings. ‎ ‎Beyond club football, Messi's international achievements include leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in 2022 and earning Olympic gold in 2008. His historic rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo has fueled global interest and lucrative brand opportunities. ‎ ‎Messi's Career Earnings: $1.6 Billion and C...

‎Lamine Yamal, now at the age of 17, has become one of football's most exciting and talked-about young talents. From a debut that defied expectations to stunning performances in the world’s biggest competitions, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Here are some of the unforgettable moments that have cemented his place as one of the brightest stars in world football. ‎ ‎1. Youngest Player to Debut for FC Barcelona ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal made history on April 29, 2023, at just 15 years and 290 days old, becoming the youngest player to debut for FC Barcelona in La Liga. His appearance against Real Betis was more than just a milestone for Barcelona; it was a signal to the world that this teenager was destined for greatness. With his calm demeanor, sharp decision-making, and an eye for the perfect pass, Yamal looked every bit the seasoned professional. ‎ ‎2. Record-Breaking UEFA Champions League Appearance ‎ ‎Just month...

‎Lamine Yamal is quickly becoming a household name in global football, and at just 17 years old, he’s already making waves at FC Barcelona and in the Spanish national team. While fans admire his dazzling footwork and fearless attacking style, there’s more to Yamal than meets the eye.  ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Here are five things you probably didn’t know about this football prodigy. ‎ ‎1. He’s the Youngest Player to Debut for Barcelona in La Liga ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal made history in April 2023 when he became the youngest player ever to debut for FC Barcelona in a La Liga match, at just 15 years and 290 days old. His late substitution against Real Betis wasn’t just symbolic—it showcased Barça’s confidence in his raw talent and maturity. ‎ ‎2. He’s of Dual Heritage ‎ ‎Born in Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain, Yamal is of Equatoguinean and Moroccan descent. His multicultural background adds to his unique identity, and although he represents Spain at the internatio...

‎Lamine Yamal is quickly becoming a household name in global football, and at just 17 years old, he’s already making waves at FC Barcelona and in the Spanish national team. While fans admire his dazzling footwork and fearless attacking style, there’s more to Yamal than meets the eye.  ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Here are five things you probably didn’t know about this football prodigy. ‎ ‎1. He’s the Youngest Player to Debut for Barcelona in La Liga ‎ ‎Lamine Yamal made history in April 2023 when he became the youngest player ever to debut for FC Barcelona in a La Liga match, at just 15 years and 290 days old. His late substitution against Real Betis wasn’t just symbolic—it showcased Barça’s confidence in his raw talent and maturity. ‎ ‎2. He’s of Dual Heritage ‎ ‎Born in Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain, Yamal is of Equatoguinean and Moroccan descent. His multicultural background adds to his unique identity, and although he represents Spain at the internatio...

‎Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal delivered a performance for the ages on Wednesday night, inspiring his side to a pulsating 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League. At just 17 years old, the prodigious winger demonstrated composure, flair, and attacking menace beyond his years, scoring a breathtaking goal and tormenting the Inter defence from start to finish. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Inter had raced to a 2-0 lead at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, but Yamal’s brilliance sparked a spirited Barcelona comeback. His goal, a solo effort showcasing his dribbling and precise finishing, was a moment of pure class that ignited the home crowd and changed the tone of the match. ‎ ‎“He's special, he's a genius,” Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick told BBC Sport after the final whistle. “In the big matches, he shows up. If this kind of talent only comes around every 50 years, I’m glad it’s for Barcelona.” ‎ ‎Inter manager Simone Inz...

‎At just 17 years of age, Lamine Yamal has already accomplished what many footballers dream of over a lifetime. The FC Barcelona prodigy is not only a staple in Xavi’s first team but also a European Championship winner with Spain, and a recipient of both the Golden Boy and Kopa Trophy awards. With comparisons to Lionel Messi echoing through the football world, the buzz surrounding Yamal is growing louder by the day. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal ', ' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Yet, Real Madrid icon Guti has offered a grounded and nuanced perspective on the meteoric rise of the La Masia graduate. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Guti was generous in his praise—but also clear in his assessment: Yamal is not the best. Not yet, at least. ‎ ‎“He’s light years ahead of what I did,” Guti admitted. “But the best? What does being the best mean? It means performing at the highest level every single match—and he’s not there yet.” ‎ ‎The comment isn’t meant as criticism, but rath...

‎Sporting legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have secured their places among the highest-paid athletes of all time, according to a new list released by Sportico. The ranking, which combines career earnings from salaries and endorsements—but excludes investments—places Ronaldo at No. 3 and Messi at No. 5 on the all-time list. ‎ ‎ Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Al-Nassr FC forward Cristiano Ronaldo has amassed an estimated $1.92 billion throughout his career, landing just behind Tiger Woods ($2.79 billion) and all-time leader Michael Jordan, whose earnings tower at an unmatched $4.15 billion. Inter Miami CF’s Lionel Messi has reportedly earned $1.49 billion, placing him fifth overall, just behind NBA superstar LeBron James at $1.88 billion. ‎ ‎Top 5 Highest-Paid Athletes of All Time (per Sportico): ‎ ‎1 . Michael Jordan (Basketball) – $4.15 billion ‎ ‎2 . Tiger Woods (Golf) – $2.79 billion ‎ ‎3 . Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer) – $1.92 billion...

‎Barcelona are reportedly preparing to orchestrate one of football’s most emotional reunions, aiming to bring club legend Lionel Messi back in time for the grand reopening of the iconic Spotify Camp Nou in 2026. ‎ Barcelona plan to bring Lionel Messi back in 2026 to mark Camp Nou’s reopening, aiming for a legendary reunion with the Argentine icon. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎The Argentine superstar, now 37, left the Catalan giants in 2021 due to financial constraints that prevented the club from renewing his contract. Since then, Messi has continued to dazzle on the global stage, guiding Argentina to World Cup triumph in 2022 and later moving to Major League Soccer to join Inter Miami, where he has played a pivotal role in the sport's growth in the United States. ‎ ‎According to a report from TNT Sports, Barcelona remain hopeful of reuniting with their all-time great. The club is said to be “slowly preparing” for a potential deal to bring Messi back following the 2026 FIFA World C...

‎The record for most goals scored in a single calendar year is one of football’s most prestigious — and fiercely debated — milestones. While FIFA doesn’t officially recognize an all-time record, several legendary names have earned a place in the Guinness World Records and football history books. ‎ ‎ Lionel Messi’s record 91 goals in 2012 remain unmatched. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎In 2012, Lionel Messi delivered an astonishing performance that saw him score 91 goals for club and country, breaking Gerd Muller’s 1972 record of 85. Of Messi’s 91 goals, 79 were for FC Barcelona and the remainder with the Argentine national team. ‎ ‎Although the Zambian Football Association claimed Godfrey Chitalu scored 113 goals in 1972, FIFA declined to officially acknowledge the record due to insufficient documentation. ‎ ‎Other icons follow closely behind. Pele recorded 75 goals in 1958, while Zico and Romario both achieved 72-goal calendar years. Cristiano Ronaldo appears multiple times in the top ...

‎Carlo Ancelotti’s long-anticipated move to become the next head coach of Brazil’s national team is reportedly facing fresh uncertainty, as the Italian manager raises serious concerns about political instability within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the safety of living in the country. ‎ Ancelotti delays Brazil move due to CBF political chaos and security fears. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Ancelotti, currently at the helm of Real Madrid, was on the brink of accepting the Brazil job back in 2023. However, the appointment was derailed when CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues was removed from his role following a court ruling that declared his election illegitimate. Although Rodrigues was reinstated in January 2024, Ancelotti had by then renewed his contract with Real Madrid, leading the CBF to appoint Dorival Júnior on an interim basis. ‎ ‎Now, as Dorival’s time with the Selecao nears its end and Ancelotti’s Madrid chapter draws to a close on May 26, renewed talks betwe...

‎Real Madrid have identified Arsenal defender William Saliba as their top transfer target to anchor a summer defensive overhaul, according to a report from Spanish outlet Marca. The 23-year-old French international is said to be the club’s preferred solution to reinforce a backline that has struggled in key moments this season, particularly during their Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Arsenal. ‎ ‎Real Madrid plot Summer rebuild with Arsenal's William Saliba at the centre. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Los Blancos were eliminated from Europe’s elite competition after conceding five goals across two legs against the North London side. That performance reportedly intensified internal discussions over the need to rejuvenate a once-impervious defence. Saliba, who has grown into one of the world’s premier centre-backs under Mikel Arteta, has long been admired by Real’s chief scout Juni Calafat, who views him as an ideal long-term leader in defence. ‎ ‎Despite Saliba si...

‎Real Madrid’s decorated manager Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly preparing for a new chapter in his illustrious coaching career, with The Athletic reporting that the Italian tactician will step down at the end of the 2023–24 season to become the next head coach of Brazil’s national team. ‎ ‎ Carlo Ancelotti to exit Real Madrid in June, set to become Brazil's next head coach after a decorated second stint with Los Blancos. ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Ancelotti has allegedly informed members of the Real Madrid dressing room of his intention to depart after the current campaign concludes. Though his contract runs through 2026, sources suggest he will not continue beyond June, opting instead to embark on an international venture with Brazil. ‎ ‎The move marks a significant shift for Ancelotti, who has experienced immense success in his second spell with Los Blancos. Since returning to the Spanish capital in 2021, he has guided Madrid to numerous trophies, including a Champions League t...

‎In the lead-up to Inter Milan’s eagerly anticipated Champions League semi-final clash against Barcelona, Lautaro Martinez has decisively rejected the growing comparisons between Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi. With Barcelona’s 16-year-old forward emerging as one of the most exciting talents in European football, many have drawn parallels to Messi, who once dominated the same role on Barcelona’s right wing. However, Martinez, who has played a key role in Inter’s journey to the semi-finals, was quick to assert that such comparisons are unjust. ‎ ‎' Lamine Yamal ', ' Lionel Messi. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Wednesday’s first-leg showdown at the Montjuic, Martinez made his stance clear. “Well, first of all, I’m not going to get into that,” he began. “For me, Leo [Messi] has no comparison, because he is, was, and will be the best player of all time. So I won’t make that comparison. I can only say tha...

‎Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal has addressed the growing comparisons between himself and Lionel Messi with humility and maturity well beyond his 17 years. Speaking ahead of his 100th appearance for the club, the teenager made it clear that while he deeply admires the Argentine icon, his primary goal is to carve out his own identity—both on and off the pitch. ‎ ‎' Lionel Messi ', ' Lamine Yamal. ' ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Yamal’s response comes after Messi, in an interview with Simplemente Futbol, described the Spanish prodigy as “one of the best players in the world.” While such praise would overwhelm most players his age, Yamal remained grounded. ‎ ‎“I don’t compare myself with anyone, same with Messi,” said Yamal during Tuesday’s press briefing. “I admire Leo—he’s the best in history. But I just focus on improving. Comparing myself with others doesn’t make sense.” ‎ ‎The Euro 2024 winner went on to explain his unique mindset. “As a footballer, I want to...

‎Manchester United are confident that they have sealed a deal to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. The Swedish international has been a long-term target for the Red Devils, and club insiders now believe that the move is effectively a “done deal.” ‎ ‎' Viktor Gyokeres. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎United, under manager Rúben Amorim, are seeking to overhaul their attacking options following a disappointing Premier League campaign. Current centre-forwards Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled to deliver consistent performances, prompting a strategic focus on bolstering the front line. ‎ ‎Gyokeres, who has enjoyed a sensational debut season with Sporting CP, fits the profile United are after. In Liga Portugal alone, the former Coventry City striker has netted 34 goals and provided 7 assists across 29 appearances. His performances in the Champions League have also been impressive, with 6 goals...

Liverpool Football Club is once again on top of English football, clinching the Premier League title for a record-equalling 20th time in their history. The 2024-25 season was nothing short of extraordinary, as Liverpool, under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, broke records, overcame adversity, and delivered thrilling football to clinch the title with four matches to spare. There were countless highs throughout the season, but it’s the key moments—whether individual brilliance, tactical masterstrokes, or team resilience—that defined this unforgettable campaign. ' The Mohamed Salah. ' Getty Images  Let’s delve into 20 of those game-changing moments that made Liverpool’s 2024-25 season one to remember. 1 . Perfect Klopp Replacement: Arne Slot’s Immediate Impact Replacing a figure like Jurgen Klopp was always going to be a monumental task. But Liverpool’s board made the right call by hiring Arne Slot as the club’s new manager. The Dutchman’s arrival brought a brea...

‎The greatest rivalry in modern football history might never make it to the boxing ring, but the idea of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo squaring off under the lights has intrigued even the sport’s biggest names—including former world boxing champion Amir Khan. ‎ ‎ Amir Khan calls a hypothetical Messi vs Ronaldo boxing match “a great fight” but unlikely to happen. ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Khan, speaking to Instant Casino, was quick to praise the longevity and legacy of both global icons, suggesting their competitive fire would translate well inside the ropes. “That would be a great fight,” Khan said. “I’d buy a ticket for that. We don’t know who the number one is. I like both—Ronaldo’s a great ambassador, so is Messi.” ‎ ‎The fantasy bout between the two footballing GOATs may ignite imaginations, but Khan conceded that a real fight is improbable. “With the kind of money those guys are on, I don’t think they’d ever actually fight. They don’t need to,” he added. ‎ ‎Messi and R...

Liverpool FC, one of the most prestigious and decorated clubs in football history, have been home to some of the game's most prolific goal scorers. From the iconic Ian Rush to the modern-day legend Mohamed Salah, these players have defined the club’s success with their remarkable goal-scoring feats. Here’s a closer look at the top scorers who have left a lasting legacy at Anfield. ' Mo. Salah. ' Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎1 . Ian Rush – The Record-Breaking Legend ‎ ‎Topping the list of Liverpool's all-time top scorers is Ian Rush, a player whose incredible ability to find the back of the net has made him a club icon. Rush scored an astounding 346 goals in 660 appearances, playing across two separate spells at the club (1980-1987, 1988-1996). His best season came in 1983-84 when he netted 47 goals in 65 appearances, claiming the Golden Boot in both the league and the European Cup. During that campaign, Liverpool won a league and European Cup double, solidifying R...