馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Lionel Messi reflects on his "beautiful sporting rivalry" with Cristiano Ronaldo
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has characterized his long-standing competition with Cristiano Ronaldo as a "beautiful sporting rivalry." Messi stated that their rivalry was driven by ambition and competition, not personal animosity. The two players dominated global football for over a decade while playing for FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively. Messi explained that their relationship was always good and respectful, and any competition was purely athletic. He noted that they rarely met outside of matches or award ceremonies and were always on good terms. Messi acknowledged that constant comparisons between them were inevitable as they consistently broke records and won trophies. The Argentine captain emphasized that their relationship remained respectful despite intense on-field competition. Messi now looks back on that era with pride and appreciation, describing it as a period that helped define modern football.
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Lionel Messi has become the outright leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, achieving this feat by scoring twice in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. The Argentine captain now has a total of 18 World Cup goals, surpassing former Germany striker Miroslav Klose. This milestone occurred as Argentina secured their spot in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, maintaining a perfect record with six points from two matches. Other top scorers include Ronaldo of Brazil with 15 goals, Gerd M眉ller of Germany and Kylian Mbapp茅 of France both with 14 goals, and Just Fontaine of France with 13 goals.
Must ReadLionel Messi became the World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer, netting twice as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to secure a spot in the last 32. Messi scored his 17th and 18th career World Cup goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose's previous record of 16. The victory guarantees Argentina a place in the knockout rounds. Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappe is set to play his 100th game for France, aiming to add to his 14 World Cup goals. France will face Iraq, while Norway, with Erling Haaland, could also advance from Group I. German defender Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the tournament due to an ankle injury. In other matches, Spain thrashed Saudi Arabia 4-0, and Cape Verde drew 2-2 with Uruguay, with their coach Bubista expressing hopes for a knockout stage berth. Belgium drew 0-0 with Iran, who left a message promoting peace, and Egypt secured their first World Cup victory, beating New Zealand 3-1.
Must ReadThe Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Mr. Fatai Tijani, has assured residents of safety following an explosion suspected to be an Improvised Explosive Device IED in the Shoe Materials Market in Mushin. One person sustained injuries and is in stable condition. Mr. Tijani stated that preliminary findings indicate the IED was planted under a vehicle and detonated when the engine was started. Explosive Ordnance Disposal operatives were deployed to cordon off and search the area, and no additional devices were found. Remnants of the device have been recovered for forensic examination. The Commissioner urged the public to remain calm and disregard rumors of widespread insecurity. The Baale of Oke Mushin Community, Mr. Tajudeen Faronbi, described contacting authorities after being alerted to the suspicious vehicle early Monday morning. He noted the swift response of security operatives helped to manage the situation, though the vehicle's identity and ownership remain unclear.