FOOTBALL
Will Netherlands destroy Messi’s World Cup dream?
In a 2014 World Cup semifinal rematch, the Netherlands and Argentina will lock horns at the Lusail Iconic Stadium for a place in the semifinals.
Oranje beat a lively United States side 3-1 to reach the quarterfinals, while Argentina saw off a resilient Australian unit.
The Netherlands had to weather the storm in the opening minutes against the USA in the round of 16.
The Stars and Stripes were playing a positive brand of football, but it was the Dutch who took the lead.
Memphis Depay and Daley Blind fired the Netherlands to a 2-0 lead. Haji Wright momentarily brought the US back into the equation. But Denzel Dumfries, who had assisted the first two goals for the Netherlands, got his name on the scoresheet and binned off the USA’s hope for a resurgence.
The Netherlands did not lose a quarterfinal match since the 1994 World Cup, and their current form will make them hopeful of keeping that form intact.
Louis van Gaal’s men have not experienced defeat in their last 19 matches.
They have two in-form attackers, Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo, up front. And the rearguard, led by the mercurial Virgil van Dijk, has conceded only twice in more than six hours of football in Qatar.
Argentina took their time to exert their dominance in the match when they played Australia on Saturday night.
Lionel Messi ended his wait for a World Cup knockout stage goal as he brilliantly put the ball into the back of the net.
Julián Álvarez exploited a Matt Ryan mistake to make the scoreline 2-0.
The Socceroos set up a nervy finale after Enzo Fernández deflected a ball into his net. But Argentina custodian Emiliano Martínez made a brilliant late save before Lisandro Martínez produced a block reminiscent of the iconic Javier Mascherano tackle on Arjen Robben in the 2014 World Cup semifinal. So, the score remained 2-1 in favour of Argentina.
Argentina arrested their three-match losing streak in the World Cup quarterfinals when they previously played in the last eight.
Argentina overcame Belgium to play the Netherlands in the semis. They will hope to get the better of the 2010 World Cup runner-ups once again to book a spot in the semifinals.
Team News
Jeremie Frimpong fought off an ankle injury to make it to the starting XI against the US.
The fullback will keep his place in the lineup once again.
Stefan de Vrij has also pulled through fitness issues to provide competition for the settled back three of Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Aké, and Jurrien Timber.
Argentina might not get to call upon Papu Gómez, who sprained his ankle during the Australia match and had to come off only five minutes after the second half started.
But La Albiceleste could get back the experienced Ángel Di María, who is on the brink of returning from a quadriceps injury.
Our Prediction
Argentina are on a 13-match scoring streak, but they might struggle to break through the organized Netherlands defence.
Similarly, the Dutch could also fail to unlock the Argentina defence, which has the ability to fend off top attacks.
We expect the tie to end goalless and then Argentina to win on penalties, because of their penalty specialist goalkeeper.
Date: 10 December
Kickoff: 12:30 AM IST
Venue: Lusail Iconic Stadium
BIG NEWS
Cristiano Ronaldo Criticizes Ballon d’Or for Ignoring Vinicius Jr.
Cristiano Ronaldo expressed dissatisfaction with the Ballon d’Or ceremony for overlooking Vinicius Jr. despite his remarkable season. Ronaldo called the decision unfair and questioned the selection process for the prestigious award.
Vinicius Jr. delivered standout performances for Real Madrid, contributing significantly to their successes last season. His consistent brilliance made him a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
However, the Brazilian winger failed to secure a nomination, raising eyebrows among fans and football analysts. Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, voiced his disappointment at the omission.
Ronaldo highlighted Vinicius Jr.’s contributions, including crucial goals and assists during high-stakes matches. He emphasized that such achievements deserved recognition at football’s highest level.
This criticism marks another instance where Cristiano Ronaldo has questioned the Ballon d’Or’s transparency. In the past, he has expressed similar sentiments about perceived biases in the award process.
Fans echoed Ronaldo’s views, taking to social media to defend Vinicius Jr. Many agreed that his exclusion undermined the credibility of the Ballon d’Or.
Vinicius Jr., on the other hand, maintained a composed response, focusing on his performances rather than awards. His maturity amid the controversy earned respect from fans and peers alike.
Ronaldo’s comments have reignited debates about the criteria used to select Ballon d’Or nominees. Critics argue that consistent performance should weigh more than subjective judgments.
The Ballon d’Or, awarded annually by France Football, remains a symbol of individual excellence. However, instances like Vinicius Jr.’s omission spark ongoing discussions about its fairness.
As the debate continues, fans and players alike await reforms in how football’s top accolades are awarded. Ronaldo’s advocacy for deserving players adds weight to this conversation.
FOOTBALL
Nottingham Forest Climbs to Third with Victory Over Tottenham
Nottingham Forest secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Tottenham in a gripping Premier League encounter. Anthony Elanga’s decisive goal propelled Forest to third position in the league standings, marking a significant achievement for the club.
The match showcased Forest’s resilience and tactical discipline. Elanga’s goal came in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Tottenham. The Forest forward displayed composure as he slotted the ball past the goalkeeper, ensuring three vital points for his team.
Tottenham, despite their efforts, struggled to break through Forest’s well-organized defense. Their attack lacked the sharpness needed to convert opportunities into goals. This defeat marks a setback for Tottenham, who now face mounting pressure to reclaim their form.
Nottingham Forest manager praised the team’s performance, emphasizing their determination and collective effort. He highlighted the significance of the win in boosting morale and confidence for the challenging fixtures ahead.
The victory reflects Forest’s remarkable form this season, as they continue to defy expectations and compete among the league’s elite. Their consistent performances have made them a formidable opponent in the Premier League.
Fans celebrated the win, recognizing it as a testament to the club’s progress under the current management. The team’s climb to third position underscores their ambition and growing reputation in English football.
This result serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that defines the Premier League. Nottingham Forest’s rise adds a compelling narrative to the season, inspiring fans and players alike.
FOOTBALL
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Emotional Moment Recalled by Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand shared an emotional incident involving Cristiano Ronaldo and Alex Ferguson during their Manchester United days. The story highlights Ferguson’s management style and Ronaldo’s journey to becoming a football legend.
According to Ferdinand, the incident occurred early in Cristiano Ronaldo career. Ferguson criticized Ronaldo in front of the team after a subpar performance. The harsh words left Ronaldo in tears, but they also sparked a determination to improve.
Ferdinand explained that Ferguson used such moments to build mental toughness in young players. The criticism wasn’t meant to demean but to push Ronaldo toward greatness. This tough-love approach became a hallmark of Ferguson’s management.
Ronaldo responded by working harder on his game, focusing on areas Ferguson pointed out. Ferdinand recalled how Ronaldo’s commitment to improvement impressed both teammates and coaches. This incident marked a turning point in Ronaldo’s development.
The story also sheds light on Ferguson’s ability to read players and tailor his approach. While his methods were tough, they often brought out the best in players like Ronaldo.
Ferdinand emphasized that Ronaldo’s resilience and willingness to learn set him apart. He turned criticism into motivation, eventually becoming one of the greatest footballers in history.
This anecdote offers a glimpse into the dynamics of a legendary player-coach relationship. It also highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in professional sports.
Ronaldo’s ability to handle challenges and grow from them remains a key lesson for aspiring athletes. The story serves as a reminder of how tough moments can lead to extraordinary success with the right mindset.
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