FOOTBALL
World Cup 3rd Place Predictions: Croatia vs. Morocco
None of the teams wanted to be here, but now that they are, Croatia and Morocco will battle it out for third place in the World Cup on Saturday.
A day later, Argentina and France lock horns at the Lusail Iconic for the ultimate prize in international football.
Croatia, who were runner-ups in Russia four years ago, surrendered to a rampaging Argentina.
Morocco, on the other hand, put up a great fight against current holders France, but that was not enough to avoid a 2-0 defeat.
Two first-half goals decided the match’s fate when Argentina played Croatia in the first semifinal. Dominik Livaković conceded a penalty trying to stop Julián Álvarez from getting to the ball.
Lionel Messi put the ball in the top right corner before Álvarez scored a remarkable solo goal to put Argentina 2-0 ahead.
The Manchester City youngster added a second to his name after the interval when Lionel Messi left Joško Gvardiol for dead and broke into the Croatia box to set up Álvarez.
Despite being 2018 finalists and 2022 semifinalists, Croatia did not win a World Cup knockout match within regular time since 1998.
The last time they won a World Cup match after the group stages without taking it to extra time was against the Netherlands in the third-place decider of the 1998 World Cup.
Can Zlatko Dalić’s men repeat that feat this time around?
Morocco’s fabulous story at the World Cup will not get a fairytale finish after they fell short against the reigning champions in the second semifinal. But the Atlas Lions will still return to their homeland with their heads held high.
Finishing third cannot match the glory of lifting the World Cup, but it will still be a commendable achievement for the North African nation.
Walid Regragui’s side can match another World Cup record on Saturday if they manage to shut out Croatia.
They will become the only team in World Cup history, other than Spain in 2010, to keep five clean sheets in a single edition of the tournament.
Morocco have conceded in only two matches in Qatar. The first goal they conceded was an own goal by Nayef Aguerd against Canada.
France’s Theo Hernández became the first opposition player in the World Cup to score against Morocco before Randal Kolo Muani added a second late in the game.
Team News
Nayef Aguerd, Romain Saïss, and Noussair Mazraoui were in a race against time to get fit before the semifinal.
All three of them started against France, but none of them could last till the final whistle.
Aguerd was withdrawn just before kickoff, Saïss lasted 20 minutes and Mazraoui did not return to the pitch after the break. None of them are expected to feature on Saturday.
Yahia Attiyat Allah and Selim Amallah could get back to the starting XI.
Croatia also saw several casualties in their semifinal loss to Argentina.
Marcelo Brozović limped off the pitch before the hour mark and is not likely to return against Morocco.
Joško Gvardiol required injections to ignore his foot injury and start in the semifinal. Dalić might not risk him against Morocco.
Our Prediction
Both teams will be without several key members, so it’s a tough match to call.
But we expect Morocco to edge their Balkan opponents and grab the World Cup bronze. ‘
We say, Morocco 1-0 Croatia.
Date: 17 December
Kickoff: 8:30 PM IST
Venue: Khalifa International Stadium.
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.
FOOTBALL
Bukayo Saka Injury: Arsenal Star Out for Several Weeks
Bukayo Saka had hamstring injury will keep him sidelined for several weeks, confirmed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. This announcement comes as a significant blow to Arsenal’s campaign, as Saka plays a pivotal role in the team’s attack.
Arteta revealed that Bukayo Saka injury occurred during a recent match and requires adequate recovery time. Medical evaluations confirmed the severity of the issue, necessitating a break from competitive football.
Saka’s absence creates challenges for Arsenal, particularly in crucial upcoming matches. The team must now explore alternative strategies to maintain their performance without one of their key players.
Arteta emphasized the importance of player health and stressed that Saka’s recovery would not be rushed. The manager expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and adaptability to manage this period effectively.
Arsenal’s medical staff will closely monitor Saka’s rehabilitation to ensure a safe and complete recovery. The club remains optimistic about his return later in the season.
Fans expressed their support for Saka, wishing him a speedy recovery. His contributions this season have been vital, making his absence a significant setback. Arsenal supporters eagerly await updates on his progress.
This development highlights the physical demands on players in competitive football. Teams must balance performance and player welfare to prevent such injuries. Arsenal’s handling of Saka’s situation reflects their commitment to safeguarding their players’ health.
Saka’s injury adds pressure on Arsenal to perform without their star winger. The team’s response during this period will test their resilience and ability to adapt to challenging circumstances.
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