To say that Karim Benzema has stepped up to the mantle ever since Ronaldo’s departure, would be an understatement. Fresh off single-handedly dismantling PSG in the Champions League, the striker notched up another hattrick, this time against holders Chelsea. Three goals at Stamford Bridge took his tally to 37 goals for the season, and naturally, …
The war in Ukraine continues to rage on and living conditions for millions of Ukrainians continue to worsen. The turmoil and chaos had the world at a standstill, with many nations getting involved. The impact of the war has transferred onto the football world as well, and football organisations have subsequently condemned Russia’s actions. Aside from …
Fairytale stories in football don’t come around often, and most just fade into obscurity becoming a case of wasted potential. Those that make it are etched into the history books, others, unfortunately, are forgotten. Such was the case for Javier Hernandez in European Football. Nicknamed ‘Chicharito’, a seemingly unknown entity from Guadalajara burst onto the scene …
Long gone are the days when a footballer was supposed to show up, have a kickabout, and then take his leave. Nowadays, they’re often larger than life figures, each with their own brand and distinct personalities. Players are afforded much more space to express themselves, an attitude that extends to off-field activities as well. It’s common …
Much has been said of the latest generation of footballers, mostly along the lines of criticism regarding the time they spend on social media. Commercials, sponsorships, even apology letters, the modern footballer does it all, and the veterans don’t love it. Just look up a classic Roy Keane rant, filled with terms such as “lazy”, “soft”, …
Last night’s Derby d’Italia at the Allianz Stadium went about predictably. A tense and heated affair that eventually resulted in an Inter Milan victory through Hakan Calhanoglu’s spot-kick. When crunch ties such as derbies come around, players often whip out all the skills at their disposal to get an edge. This also means that derbies feature plenty …
A club’s traditional colours have for long been the easiest manner for fans to draw associations. Clubs are even nicknamed after the shades they don, examples being The Blaugrana, Manchester Reds and Giallorossi. So when the kit makers begin drawing up the sides’ home kit, the use of customary colours is a must. The fact creates certain …
Football’s notion of inclusivity, at least in terms of physical stature, often leads to some truly fascinating images. Where else are you gonna find an image of a 6-foot behemoth squaring off against a 5’6 trickster, and potentially losing? Such is the beauty of the game, as, on the pitch, no vertical advantage can trump majestic …
The draw is done, the ball has been revealed and the stage is set, we are well and truly approaching the World Cup season. Held once every quadrennial, the festival of football brings with it joy, heartbreak and passion. While the participants and venues have been decided, the spectacle itself is still months away, specifically in …
Friendlies are often fun prospects offering a chance for teams to try out new approaches or throw in some youngsters. Be it at the club or international level, the expectation remains the same, a low-key affair that hopefully doesn’t tread into the mundane territory. However, referees, as they so often do, can play spoilsport and hamper …
As a result of extensive research and advancements in technology, trends are constantly evolving. This doesn’t necessarily relate only to the technological world, as recent years have provided new perspectives which directly correlate to our very diets. Veganism, the all-plant based diet which was often considered bizarre or outlandish, is now the cultural zeitgeist and many …
The international break gave many players the chance to rest and recover before kicking back into top gear for the end of the season. Many players jetted off to various international destinations, which often leads to a meetup with a fellow footballer. The latest linkup to add to the list involves Bayern Munich forward Serge …
It seems as if the Manchester United captain is always in the news, be it due to his questionable performances, alleged spats with teammates, or more recently, the shocking treatment he received from England fans. Suffice to say, United fans are always on his case. He’s been dubbed as ‘slabhead’, ‘fridge’ etc and the jokes …
FC Barcelona, throughout their history, have been truly blessed with numerous mercurial young talents. Courtesy of La Masia, their academy products include Leo Messi, Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas to name a few. The latest generation isn’t too shabby either, the likes of Ansu Fati, Gavi, Riqui Puig have proven just that. But the standout of the …
Is there a bigger superstar in world football than Cristiano Ronaldo? Going by sheer numbers alone, the answer is a firm no, as the Portuguese International is not only the most followed person on Instagram but is also one of the most recognizable celebrities on the globe. His stardom, propelled by his seismic achievements on …
Ending a 36 year-long wait, the Canadian National Team booked their spot in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar by easing past Jamaica through a 4-0 victory. John Herdman’s side, comprising of talents such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Ike Ugbo, Alphonso Davies etc, have established a hold on their group and looks all set …
The scenes at the BMO Field on Sunday were simply unforgettable, especially for a nation that has waited so eagerly to return to the grandest stage again. Right before full time, the flags came out and a venue filled with Canucks burst into a chorus of ‘O Canada’. Then the whistle rang, and deafening noise …