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Messi Unveil Retirement Plan Speculations

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1 year ago

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In a recent episode of the Big Time Podcast, legendary Argentine footballer Lionel Messi opened up about his retirement timeline, offering insights into his future in the sport.

Since his move to Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has showcased his prowess with an impressive tally of 16 goals and seven assists in just 19 appearances across various competitions.

However, persistent injury setbacks have raised questions about his durability in football’s demanding landscape.

Despite his age of 36, Messi remains introspective about his career trajectory. As an eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient, he admits to scrutinizing his performances meticulously, highlighting his keen self-awareness.

He stresses that his decision to retire will be based on his ability to maintain peak performance and derive joy from the game, rather than his numerical age.

“I am highly self-critical; I can discern when my performance meets the mark or falls short. When the time comes to hang up my boots, I’ll do so without fixating on age,” Messi affirmed.

He emphasised that his departure from football hinges on his sense of readiness, gauged by his effectiveness on the pitch and his contribution to the team’s success.

“I recognise the moment when I no longer feel equipped to excel, when the thrill of the game wanes, or when I cease to elevate my teammates,” Messi elaborated, underlining the subjective nature of his retirement decision.

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U-20 AFCON: Nigeria battle Morocco to goalless draw

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2 days ago

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May 5, 2025

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The Flying Eagles of Nigeria were held to a goalless draw by Morocco in their second Group B match in the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tightly contested clash took place on Sunday at the June 30 Air Defence Stadium in Cairo.

Clear-cut chances were few in the cagey affair.

The Flying Eagles controlled proceedings in the first half but managed only one shot on target.

Morocco dominated possession in the second half but failed to pose any serious threat to Nigeria’s goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt.

With the result, Morocco remain at the top of the group on goal difference, having accrued the same number of points as Nigeria (four).

Tunisia, who earlier defeated Kenya 3-1 in the group’s other fixture, are in third place with three points.

The Flying Eagles will face Kenya in their final Group B match on Wednesday at 4 p.m.

NAN reports that the top four teams from the tournament will qualify to represent Africa at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, scheduled to take place from Sept. 27 to Oct. 19. (NAN)

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U20 AFCON: Eagles set for Moroccan firepower

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4 days ago

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May 3, 2025

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The Flying Eagles will come up against the firepower of the Junior Atlas Lions of Morocco after the North Africans fought from a goal down to beat Kenya 3-2 in their Group B game of the 2025 U20 AFCON.

The Flying Eagles have expressed confidence of flying high at the U20 AFCON in Egypt after they opened their campaign with a 1-0 win over Tunisia.

On Thursday, Akwa United youngster Auwal Ibrahim ‘Germany’ was Man of the Match, gave Nigeria the maximum points against the Junior Cartage Eagles, who gave as much as they got from their Nigerian counterparts.

Captain Daniel Bameyi said after the win that they are now looking forward to another win against Morocco on Sunday night.

“It is on to the next game. We hope to win and go top of our group on our way to qualifying for the World Cup and winning the tournament,” the Bayelsa United central defender said.

 

Flying Eagles coach Aliyu Zubairu said the win over Tunisia is great for team’s confidence.

“The first game of a competition is often difficult and to get the three points was very important,” he said.

“This will help with our confidence. Nigerians should continue to support and pray for the team and we promise not to let them down.”

The Flying Eagles are seeking a record-extending eighth U20 AFCON title in Egypt.

Morocco fell behind to the Rising Stars of Kenya in the second match in Group B, before they rallied back to win despite missing a penalty and losing two players to injury

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Othmane Maamma was Man of the Match for Morocco to go top of the standings by virtue of having scored more goals than the Flying Eagles.

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Atlético Madrid Step up Chase for Lookman

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4 days ago

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May 3, 2025

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The Super Eagles forward will be one of the main transfer attractions when top European clubs whip out their purses for purchases in the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman is poised for a high-profile summer transfer, with Spanish giants Atlético Madrid among the clubs vying for his signature.

Despite having a contract with Atalanta that runs until June 2027, the Nigerian international is expected to depart Bergamo at the end of the season.

The Serie A club are reportedly willing to sell the 27-year-old if their €60 million (£51.5m) valuation is met, with several European powerhouses monitoring the situation.

According to Spanish outlet Marca via Les-transferts, Atlético Madrid have already opened discussions with Lookman’s representatives.

While Diego Simeone’s side reportedly believes Atalanta’s asking price is steep, they are seriously considering a move after being impressed by Lookman’s prolific campaign.

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