Can you think of a better love affair than European nights and Real Madrid? I am pretty sure you can’t. Los Blancos have been going through a torrid campaign domestically, they are out of Copa Del Rey, and have no realistic chance of defending their La Liga crown.

However, at Europe’s elite competition, they once again transcended to an entirely different level to tarnish Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) hopes of Champions League success, at a time when the contrary seemed more likely.

Not a bad way for Madridistas to celebrate the club’s 116^th anniversary.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo and Marco Asensio steal the limelight

The path to the quarterfinals was paved at the Santiago Bernabéu with a 3-1 win. A clinical display by the Whites, in the away match at Paris, was enough to ensure that they remained largely unthreatened during the Round of 16 draw.

After a tame end to 2017, Ronaldo is once again peaking at the right time, having regained his goal-scoring form. With all the talks about him slowing down and losing his effectiveness, it is amazing how he keeps on turning up with goods when his team needs him the most, hallmark of a truly great player.

Football enthusiasts have tons of action throughout the year to quench their thirst for quality matches, but the epitome of the game lies in its showpiece event, the FIFA World Cup. Similar to the conching process in chocolate manufacturing, the sport receives its true flavour with the best players in the world donning their national colours. With less than 100 days left before the tournament, it is apt to look at some of the key talking points which might have a significant impact on the way the mega event pans out. Is the time right for Video Assistant Referee (VAR)? During the trial stages so far, VAR and its use has been messy, fair and square, which makes it a bit too early for it to be used at the World Cup in Russia. The stoppage and time wastage is in contradiction to the real essence of the game which is why it is imperative to minimise the time used to reach the correct decision in order to avoid slowing down the tempo of the game. Moreover, fans at the stadium know little about what’s going on whenever such an occurrence has taken place. Hence, rather than being properly involved in the process, they are usually in the dark. Even the decisions are controversial, despite the assistance of a video referee which could be contagious and result in hampering the charm of the World Cup. While I am all for usage of technology in the game to make it more transparent, it makes little to no sense to introduce something which is impacting the fluidity and entertainment aspect of the game. Final shot at glory FIFA World Cup 2018 will be the last shot at glory for many top football stars including the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Suarez and Luka Modric. Bearing in mind the aging factor, this will probably be the last opportunity for these supremely talented legends to bag the most coveted trophy in football. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Lionel Messi of Argentina drives the ball during a match between Ecuador and Argentina as part of FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifiers at Olimpico Atahualpa Stadium on October 10, 2017 in Quito, Ecuador. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo gestures during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying football match between Portugal and Switzerland at the Luz stadium in Lisbon, Portugal on October 10, 2017. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Uruguay's Luis Suarez is seen during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualification match between Uruguay and Bolivia at Centenario Stadium in Montevideo, Uruguay on October 10, 2017. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Luka Modric of Croatia during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier Play-Off: Second Leg between Greece and Croatia at Karaiskakis Stadium on November 12, 2017 in Piraeus, Greece. Photo: Getty[/caption] Although it is fairly unlikely, an Argentina versus Portugal final would be an extraordinary event, especially for the neutrals. With two of the greatest players of the generation locking horns at this grand stage will be one delectable prospect. All other things being equal, it would absolutely break all records of viewership and social media interactions. Injury concerns Neymar’s injury came at probably the worst time for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and more so for Brazil. The most expensive player of the world has had a brilliant season for his French side and would be looking forward to do the same for his national side, if he recovers and returns in time for the World Cup. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Neymar JR of PSG goes down injured during the Ligue 1 match between Paris Saint Germain (PSG) and Olympique Marseille (OM) at Parc des Princes on February 25, 2018 in Paris, France. Photo: Icon Sport[/caption] Although his World Cup preparations will be disrupted with this long injury layoff, the Brazilian team and fans would be hoping that his recovery period is no longer than initially estimated. After all, a significant proportion of their hopes rest on his shoulders. It is not just Neymar but the England team is facing a similar problem with Harry Kane, who was one of the obvious players to be on the plane to Russia. He is suffering from an ankle injury, casting doubts over his inclusion in the squad. That gives Gareth Southgate plenty to think about, but he would be pleased to see his backup options in Jamie Vardy and Marcus Rashford, who are both in good form. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] An injured Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur holds his ankle during the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium on March 10, 2018 in Bournemouth, England. Photo: Getty[/caption] In case Kane misses out on the World Cup, it would be interesting to see what formation the manager adopts as the current team is well suited to playing around Kane as a unit. During the same match day when Kane got injured, Vardy scored an absolutely brilliant goal for Leicester, which is most likely to be one of the contenders for goal of the tournament. Talk about raising your stakes at just the appropriate time! Who leads the line for Spain? Towards the end of last year, it seemed as if Alvaro Morata had locked in the starting striker’s spot in the Spanish first XI. But his subsequent dip in form in the last couple of months at Chelsea and Diego Costa’s resurgence at Atletico Madrid, has meant that this is no longer the case. Valencia’s Rodrigo Moreno Machado and Celta Vigo’s Iago Aspas are also in the competition with a strong season behind their backs. Julen Lopetegui’s preferred choice during his reign as manager has been Morata, but if he continues his lacklustre run in front of the goal, the coach will have to turn to other options. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Alvaro Morata of Spain celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Spain and Italy at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 2, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] France and Argentina seeking defensive solidity France and Argentina have abundance of quality in the forward line but their defensive issues will be a source of concern for the fans and the team management. In order to be successful at such an event, it is important to be sufficiently equipped in all departments, rather than just one aspect of the game. Both these sides might be found wanting, especially in the fullbacks area, if they are against sides who sit back and play on the counter. Both French fullbacks Djibril Sidibé and Layvin Kurzawa are attack-minded fullbacks but are defensively vulnerable. Although this is true for most modern day fullbacks, it leaves spaces on the field to be exploited by your opponents. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] (From L) France's defender Layvin Kurzawa, France's defender Djibril Sidibe, France's forward Thomas Lemar and France's midfielder Moussa Sissoko take part in a training session in Clairefontaine en Yvelines on October 2, 2017, as part of the team's preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifying football match against Bulgaria and Belarus. Photo: AFP[/caption] On the other hand, Argentina’s only confirmed spot in the backline is Nicolas Otamendi, while his centreback partner and fullback places are still up for grabs. The upcoming international break would be the final proper opportunity for Jorge Sampaoli to discover the missing pieces of the puzzle. Germany on the right track Germany might not have the most competitive domestic league in the world but their national team is arguably the best in the world. The fact that they won the Confederations Cup with a second string side, speaks volumes about the amount of talent in the country. With very few injury concerns and meteoric rise of youngsters like Leroy Sane, Timo Werner and Joshua Kimmich, Germany is probably one of the luckiest teams in the tournament. Moreover, with experienced individuals like Toni Kroos, Mesut Ozil and Mats Hummels, the German brigade has a decent chance of defending the title they won four years ago. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Mesut Oezil (L-R), Timo Werner, Toni Kroos, Mats Hummels, Sebastian Rudy, Jonas Hector, and Antonio Ruediger of Germany stand in line during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Germany and Norway at Mercedes-Benz Arena on September 4, 2017 in Stuttgart, Baden-Wuerttemberg. Photo: Getty[/caption] As far as predictions go, it is still early to pick out one team which is going to lift the trophy, but Germany, France, Brazil and Spain are definitely among the top contenders. Interestingly, the upcoming international break is an extremely important one as teams look to figure out combinations, experiment new tactics and also shape their World Cup squads. It will most probably give us more insight as to how teams are preparing for the event which is why I would be keeping a close eye on these fixtures and so should you!

Following the round of 16 victory against FC Porto, Scousers were dreaming of all the fantastic cities that could potentially end up as their next European destination. Thoughts were already occupied with airplane and hotel bookings, which had to be made for the Champions League quarterfinal away trip. But as fate would have it, local Liverpool FC fans had to begrudgingly settle for a mere 60 minutes bus-trip down the M62 motorway, when the draws were made for the quarters in Nyon. Neither Liverpool nor Manchester City would have preferred to draw their local opponents at this stage of the continental competition. The unenthused reaction of both, the Red’s manager, Jurgen Klopp, and City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, is testament to the aforementioned statement.

“It’s a very difficult one. We like to travel and to go to another country in the Champions League, but it is what it is,” said Begiristain, following the picks.

“When you think about the draw and you get the team around the corner where you can go by bus, you don’t want it. Everybody is a little like this. They didn’t want us. We all know about that.”

Visualisation of a dream is considerably easier than actually turning it into a reality. One can associate a lot of attributes with the realisation of this process but three key elements behind it are optimism, persistence and hard work. The perfect embodiment of these traits can be found amongst many successful individuals, and one such name in that prestigious list is Cristiano Ronaldo. We can all talk at length, with great detail and assurance, about how great a footballer Ronaldo is due to the benefit of hindsight. Yet this by no means will surpass the confidence of a 15-year-old Ronaldo who told his teammates that he will be the best in the world one day. That night in Turin, a few days back, was another occasion when the Real Madrid’s talisman was seen showboating at Europe’s most elite club competition. His bicycle kick against Juventus made most of us gasp in disbelief and the subsequent applause from opposing fans even further glorified the magical moment. The conspicuously brilliant nature of the goal pulled people, who witnessed it live, in a vortex just when the stage was set for a gloomy silence and/or intangible rage to take over the venue. From being jeered and booed on every touch he took before that goal, to being praised in a matter of minutes is a testimony of his greatness. https://twitter.com/XavsFutbol/status/981262941805842439 It was not as if this goal came off in his first ever attempt, but there is a barrage of failed attempts, over the course of his career, before striking home the perfect overhead kick. You can praise him for the technique and athleticism on display but more importantly a valuable lesson was also learnt; nothing is beyond the realm of possibility if you constantly put in the hard yards. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo scores a wonderful overhead during the first leg of the quarter finals of the UEFA Champions League 2017/18 between Juventus FC and Real Madrid CF at Allianz Stadium on 03 April, 2018 in Turin, Italy. Final result is 0-3 for Real Madrid. Photo: Getty[/caption] After brazenly underperforming in the first half of the season, it is incredible how the Portuguese has completely turned around things, which deserves all the praises. But having said, this is routine service from a guy who is at his lethal best when people doubt him. In fact, if you look back at his career, this is Ronaldo in a nutshell. His uncanny ability to prove people wrong despite the odds being stacked against him is simply remarkable. Not once, not twice, but numerous times he has made people look like a fool for doubting him. People thought his career was done after a poor first half of the season, but he has stormed back in an impervious style. Notching up goals at an unbelievable rate and shattering countless records on the way. Ronaldo currently sits on 651 goals for club and country, and there is surely plenty more to come. He holds the record of scoring in 11 consecutive UEFA Champions League (UCL) games going past Rudd van Nistelrooy’s record of nine. His ridiculous numbers don’t end there, as he is now also the first player to reach 40 goals in all competitions over the course of this season across Europe’s top five leagues. Those numbers are surely from another planet, aren’t they? As a youngster, Ronaldo was not known for his muscular and ripped physique, and his teammates at Andorinha, his first club, made fun of his skinny built and termed him a ‘little bee’ during his youth football days but he is now one of the most fittest athletes going around. He was laughed at when he stated the desire of playing till the age of 40, but looking at the way he is going, you can only doubt him at your own peril. Ronaldo trudged off in tears after Portugal lost to France in semis of the 2006 World Cup but instead of becoming a victim of the situation, he kept on persevering, which eventually reaped rewards when he lifted the Euros with his national side 10 years later. I would not bet against him doing the same at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Russia, will you? [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="541"] Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo looks dejected at the end of the World Cup semi final football match Portugal vs France, 05 July 2006 at Munich's World Cup stadium. Photo: AFP[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Portugal's forward Cristiano Ronaldo hold up the winners' trophy as he celebrates with teammates Portugal's forward Ricardo Quaresma, Portugal's defender Pepe, Portugal's midfielder Joao Moutinho and Portugal's midfielder Adrien Silva after beating France 1-0 to clinch the Euro 2016 final football match between France and Portugal at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, on July 10, 2016. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Pepe, Ricardo Quaresma, Nani, Rui Patricio and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the European Championship Final between Portugal and France at Stade de France on July 10, 2016 in Paris, France. Photo: Getty[/caption] It is easy to fall into the pits of despair and lose sight of your goal when things are not working out but this is not the Ronaldo we know. He was not daunted by the rocky path that lay ahead of him and instead used it as a fuel to light fire under his boots. You can get spellbound by Ronaldo’s greatness but there is also a lingering debate over how long he can last. Thus far, he clearly epitomises that age is just a number by effectively enhancing the longevity of his career through adaptability. Longevity is one of the core elements of a footballer’s career which is another aspect of his game that Ronaldo has aced. Despite being on the wrong side of 30, he has showed no signs of stopping and goals like these only make him look younger. Adaptability and change in his style of play is a major reason behind Ronaldo racking up goals at a mind-boggling rate. He was not always a box player as his game relied more on pace and quick step-overs to beat his marker and shooting from distance. With time, however, he has realised that he can no longer be the player he once was, which is precisely the reason a recalibration in his approach towards the game was required. The former Manchester United star, despite the change, has successfully moulded himself into a player retaining his usual productivity in front of goal through clever movements, despite taking less part in build-up play. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid holds onto the Barcelona goal during the Supercopa second leg match between Real Madrid and Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 29, 2012 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] Another part of his game that makes him a standout player in the football world today is his off-the-ball movement. It is ludicrous to tout him as a scorer of easy goals because the fact of the matter is that he gets into such great shooting position that makes even difficult shots ridiculously easy. If there is anything that goes beyond his technical ability, it is his mental toughness. You may argue that this has not always been the case but there is a marked improvement in this regard in recent years. Looking for an instance to back this up? Let’s go back to the defining moment of the Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Juventus. It was the 93^rd minute; Real Madrid was awarded a late penalty after having blown away their three-goal advantage from the first leg. Chaos had taken over Santiago Bernabeu, Gianluigi Buffon had lost it completely and was sent off, the entire Juventus team was furious with the referee’s decision, and it seemed as if a riot would break out. But the only person who was calm amidst the storm was the guy with the number seven printed on the back of his shirt. He seemed unfazed by the surrounding events and moments later, a thunderous strike had shattered Juve’s hopes to pieces. https://twitter.com/CapreseBoy/status/984172411519152130 [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring his sides first goal with his teammates during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid and Juventus at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 11, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] There is a crescendo of excellence attached to his game, which evokes raw emotions leading to nothing but admiration for the Portuguese. He is not a divine entity but an aging mortal after all, and one of my most painful reconciliations in life is thinking about the prospect of one day no longer seeing him on a football pitch. But for now, Ronaldo’s career is far from over but the fairy tale story of Madeira’s ‘little bee’ becoming the greatest player of all time will forever be an inspiration.

With the first legs of UEFA Champions League (UCL) semi-finals encounters being played this week, the long and arduous road to Kyiv is finally in its homestretch. On one hand, we have a couple of usual suspects in Real Madrid and Bayern Munich gracing this stage of Europe’s high-end tournament once again, while on the other, Liverpool and AS Roma are the surprise visitors who are looking forward to gatecrashing this premier footballing party. The ties could have easily pitted the two favourites against the underdog pair, but as fate would have it, Los Blancos were drawn with the Bavarians while the Mighty Reds were asked to play against the Giallorossi to set up, at least on paper, two extremely mouthwatering clashes amongst equals. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook/ Champions League[/caption] The first of the two encounters can easily be labelled as the Salah Derby, with Mohamed Salah’s previous employers visiting his current paymasters. Roma would still be banging their head against the wall at the relative pittance they got for the newly crowned Professional Footballer’s Association  (PFA) Player of the Year, when they sold him to Liverpool for what now seems like a mere £37 million. But Romans’ loss is Scousers’ gain, as the Egyptian king has defied all sporting expectation by not just storming the English shores but the whole of continental Europe with his goal scoring exploits. Salah has now scored 41 goals in all competitions for LFC with 11 assists. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Liverpool's Mohamed Salah poses with the PFA Player Of The Year Award Trophy during the 2018 PFA Awards at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on April 10, 2018 in Manchester, England. Photo: Getty[/caption] The semi-final for the Giallorossi is not just about stopping Liverpool; it’s how they would stop the Jürgen Klopp juggernaut with Salah as its attacking focal point. Even if the Italians somehow manage to halt the Egyptian’s march towards their goal, they would still have to contend with his partners in crime, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Liverpool's Sadio Mane celebrates scoring his side's third goal with team mates Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 First Leg match between FC Porto and Liverpool at Estadio do Dragao on February 14, 2018 in Porto, Portugal. Photo: Getty[/caption] But Roma are not giving it up this easily, especially since this is the first time in 34 years that the Italians are in the Champions League semi-finals. Back then, they managed to make their way to the final which happened to take place in their own city. But a home-turf heartbreak saw them lose the 1984 final on a penalty shootout at Stadio Olimpico against, surprise surprise, Liverpool. But fast forward to 2018 and this present Roma now has the chance to banish the demons of their 1984 European campaign against the same opponents. Even if they have lost out on Salah, they still have the likes of Radja Nainggolan, Edin Dzeko and Daniele De Rossi to turn any encounter in their favour, if it’s their day. If anyone is still uncertain about their credentials, their shocking quarterfinal victory against Barcelona should really put all of those doubts to rest. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Radja Nainggolan of Roma during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final match between Roma and FC Barcelona at Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy on 10 April 2018. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Daniele De Rossi of AS Roma celebrates victory with Edin Dzeko of AS Roma UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg match between AS Roma and FC Barcelona at Stadio Olimpico on April 10, 2018 in Rome, Italy. Photo: Getty[/caption] While Roma was the easiest of the opponents that Liverpool could have faced in the semi-finals, I still believe the Giallorossi would be a far sterner test than anything we would face if we proceed to the final. Being labelled the underdog suits Klopp’s charges, but against Roma, Liverpool would be the favourites to qualify for the final in Kyiv, and that is something that could disrupt our usual tactics of gegenpressing a far fancied opponent. Moving on to Wednesday’s fixture, where we have Bayern Munich hosting the defending champions yet again at the Allianz Arena. The meeting tomorrow between the two European giants is the most played UEFA competition tie with the Germans being eliminated by their Spanish opponents in the last four seasons, including the quarterfinal defeat in 2016/17. Los Blancos are bidding to win the trophy for an unprecedented third year in a row after enduring a less-than-perfect season under boss Zinedine Zidane. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook/ Champions League[/caption] Their performance on the domestic front is in stark contrast with their continental exploits, where Cristiano Ronaldo is in an utterly supreme form; scoring in every Champions League game this season, with 15 goals in total. On the other hand, Jupp Heynckes’ side come into the match in high spirits, with a sixth consecutive Bundesliga title already sealed. But on injury front, the German’s have been dealt a big blow with Arturo Vidal out injured for the rest of the campaign. Their first choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has just returned to training, and along with Kingsley Coman, would be a major doubt for the first leg in Munich. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates with teammates during their 2016-17 UEFA Champions League Quarter-finals second leg match between Real Madrid and FC Bayern Munich at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on 18 April 2017 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] While on the basis of the aforementioned, it might be easier to tip the Spaniards effortlessly qualifying for the final, but we would do well to remember that the Germans with Robert Lewandowski have a proper ace up their sleeves. It might as well be labelled as Ronaldo against Lewandowski , especially considering Real’s form and Bayern’s injury crisis. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Real Madrid CF clashes hands with Robert Lewandowski (R) of Bayern Muenchen after the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final second leg match between Real Madrid CF and FC Bayern Muenchen at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 18, 2017 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] So while Kyiv is right around the corner for fans like myself who have still got their clubs competing in the competition, even the neutrals can’t complain since they have got four highly entertaining football clashes to look forward to. At the end of it all, there will be one usual suspect and one “gatecrasher” in Kyiv, battling it out for a chance at the Champions League title. But the million dollar question is, which ones?

Before the beginning of every FIFA World Cup, there are certain usual suspects who are expected to do well due to their experience and skill set. But on the flip side, it also provides the younger and lesser known players an elephantine opportunity to share the spotlight. The mega event can catapult the developing talent to stardom, if they are willing to grab this opportunity with both hands. The immense depth of talent globally ensures that one has to chew the cud for a significant portion of time before arriving at a shortlist. However, as things stand, the following list of seven young players should be the ones to watch out for at the upcoming tournament in Russia: 1. Hirving Lozano, age 22, Mexico  The Mexican winger Lozano has done exceedingly well in the Dutch league for PSV Eindhoven, scoring 17 goals and setting up 11 for his teammates. His performances over the course of the season were instrumental in PSV’s run to a third title in four years. He can skip past players due to his pace and technical competence, and despite being a winger, he has shown the ability to be a great finisher, much like his idol Cristiano Ronaldo. If Mexico goes deep in the tournament, Lozano will surely be one of the vital cogs in their wheel. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Domagoj Vida #21 of Croatia and Filip Bradaric #24 of Croatia pursue Hirving Lozano #8 of Mexico in the second half of an internatonal friendly soccer match at AT&T Stadium on March 27, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. Photo: Getty[/caption] 2. Davinson Sanchez, age 21, Colombia Colombian Sanchez has quickly established himself in the Tottenham backline, although it is his first season in the Premier League. In the previous season, at Ajax, the young defender was named Player Of The Year as he played a crucial part in the Dutch side’s run to the final of the Europa League. Sanchez has the pace to quickly cover space and his composure in key moments is admirable. Colombia is historically weak in defence and Sanchez’s solidity is just the kind of presence they need at the centreback position. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Davinson Sanchez of Colombia kicks the ball during the international friendly match between France and Colombia at Stade de France on March 23, 2018 in Paris, France. Photo: Getty[/caption] 3. Goncalo Guedes, age 21, Portugal The current bunch of young players’ coming through the ranks in Portugal fuels a lot of excitement, and Guedes is the most prominent amongst them. He is currently second on the list for most assists in La Liga, with nine to his credit, behind Lionel Messi. The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player, who is on loan at Valencia, has been at the centre of team resurgence in La Liga this season. He can play anywhere in the forward line with equal affect and his pace, vision and knack for making the right pass in the final third will add more potency to the Portuguese attack. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Portugal forward Goncalo Guedes celebrates scoring Portugal second goal during the match between Portugal and Saudi Arabia InternationalFriendly at Estadio do Fontelo, on November 10, 2017 in Viseu, Portugal. Photo: Getty[/caption] 4. Lucas Torreira, age 22, Uruguay One of Uruguay’s strong points at the World Cup is their midfield with talented players who are well-versed in their roles. One of the standout names in this department is young Torreira, who, despite his age, has been a consistent performer for Sampdoria during the past couple of years. Torreira’s aggressive tackling is one of the key components of his game with an average of 2.9 per game in Serie A, making him one of the best tacklers in the league. He can whizz through the opponents with the ball at his feet and is a particular nuisance for sides with a weak defensive transition. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Sampdoria's midfielder Lucas Torreira of Uruguay (R) celebrates after scoring with teammate Sampdoria's defender Matias Silvestre from Argentina during the Italian Serie A football match Sampdoria Vs Juventus on November 19, 2017 at the 'Luigi Ferraris' Stadium in Genoa. Photo: AFP[/caption] 5. Lautaro Martinez, age 20, Argentina  Argentina has a lot of talented players in its attacking arsenal and the latest sensation is Martinez. He caught everyone’s attention in 2017 when the striker finished as the joint-top scorer in under 20 World Cup qualification round. Martinez possesses all the desirable characteristics that you look for in a contemporary striker. His pace, precision and power enables him to be lethal from both inside and outside the box. Martinez is currently the second highest goal scorer in Argentinean Super Liga playing for Racing Club. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Lautaro Martinez of Racing celebrates with teammates after scoring the second goal of his team during a Group E match between Racing Club and Cruzeiro as part of Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2018 at Juan Domingo Peron Stadium on February 27, 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Photo: Getty[/caption] 6. Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, age 23, Serbia Savic was at the centre of controversy during Serbia’s World Cup qualifying campaign. Former coach Slavoljub Muslin was sacked because Savic was not given an opportunity to represent the national side, despite being one of the best players in Serie A. Savic combines his great vision with astute technical skills, which is evident from his performances at Lazio. He is already attracting interest from top clubs in Europe and a good World Cup is just the kind of platform he needs to pave the path for his grand move to a major club. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] #20 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic of Serbia during International Friendly Football Match between China and Serbia at Tianhe Stadium on November 10, 2017 in Guangzhou, China. Photo: Getty[/caption] 7. Hakim Ziyech, age 25, Morocco  Morocco’s Ziyech is another player in the Dutch league brimming with talent and confidence. The attacking midfielder has a great left foot and is a set piece expert. He can carve open a defence through his passing while also using his pace and skilled movements to score various goals. Morocco will make the most of his ability by having a defensive midfielder behind him; similar to what Ajax does, hence allowing him to thrive with little defensive responsibilities. Ziyech averages 4.2 key passes per game, which is the highest in the Eredivisie, making him crucial to the team’s success. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400"] Hakim Ziyech of Morocco during the international friendly match between Morocco and Uzbekistan at the Stade Mohammed V on March 27, 2018 in Casablanca, Morocco. Photo: Getty[/caption] A successful World Cup campaign can open up new avenues for a player, leading to better club prospects, as top performers don’t go unnoticed at football’s biggest stage. Paul Pogba and James Rodriguez, from Brazil 2014, are clear examples of how a solid World Cup can impact your career trajectory. Although the current pack of elite footballers like Ronaldo, Messi and Neymar will add a lot of flare to the event, it won’t cast aside the fact that the sprinkling of gold dust comes from the rise of future stars. The World Cup only comes every four years and footballers looking to stamp their authority in world football should not let this opportune moment slip out of their hands.

Ramazan cannot be complete in our household without the presence of iftaari from Burns Road, Karachi. This Ramazan, as I went to Burns Road on the first day of fasting to buy items for iftaar, I was once again reminded of the strong sense of nostalgia that comes alongside the aroma of the food at this street. While in the other markets of the city the process of buying iftaar can start at around 4pm, here customers will start pouring in at around 2:30pm. There is no doubt Burns Road is the original food street of Karachi. It was not set up purposefully by any government, rather it evolved naturally. People who migrated to Pakistan from India were settled in large numbers near this street, Pakistan Chowk, and other adjoining areas. It is believed some families who probably had food businesses in India before Partition are responsible for launching the foundation of Burns Road as the hub of food in Karachi. The street derived its name from British doctor James Burns, and although its name was changed to ‘Muhammad bin Qasim Road' after Partition, people generally remain unaware of this change and the road continues to enjoy its fame with its old name. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Getty[/caption] My first interaction with this street took place alongside my father and uncles, as it was a family tradition to go there early in the morning to buy nihari for breakfast. In the good old days, nihari used to be consumed for breakfast with naan or homemade parathas in Karachi as well. I still remember my college days, when I could eat a plate of nihari with two nans from Malik Nihari House for the meagre amount of Rs20, or could eat halwa puri for Rs5. Today, reasonably good nihari is available at every nook and corner of the city, a dish that once used to be a specialty of Burns Road, with people congregating in large numbers to Malik Nihari House, Waheed Restaurant or Sabri Nihari to buy the food item. Although Sabri Nihari is located a bit away from the main area, it deserves an honourable mention for being the main nihari place of yesteryear, located at the corner of the Jamia Cloth Market. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ali Anas[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Sibtain Naqvi[/caption] Rabri is another specialty of the street. Today, a huge shop named Delhi Rabri House is located at the heart of Burns Road, but the old people of Karachi know the foundation of this establishment was laid on a push cart. Starting off in the mid-50s, a cart was parked at the corner lane that houses the Waheed Kabab House for decades, and sold rabri throughout the year, along with gajar ka halwa during the winters. Another personal favourite is the renowned Waheed Kabab House, the oldest and most famous barbeque place, serving the dhagey waley kebabs that were to die for. I remember my father bringing them home and helping my mother fry them in butter; a simple treat that created happy memories of my childhood. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Ali Anas[/caption] Matkey waley dahi barey is also a specialty of Burns Road. A big red matka (clay pot) is fixed outside the shop, and the shopkeeper has been selling this special item here for decades. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Getty[/caption] A discussion of the past is incomplete without mentioning Fresco Sweets, a shop popular for its dahi phulki and samosas. And of course, during the holy month of Ramazan, their speciality is Khajla and Pheni, while on Eid, people flock to get some of their famous Kachoris. The uniqueness of Fresco is that even today, they use real ghee when preparing their food. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Khurram Zia Khan[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Khurram Zia Khan[/caption] Burns Road was developed in an era when the concept of eating outside with families was minimal, which is why to this day, shops don’t have a decent sitting area for families, and the concept of takeaway is more common. In the good old days, when plastic shopping bags were not common, customers would bring their own pots to carry food in. So much water has gone under the bridge, and Karachi has transformed over the years, for better or for worse. However, despite it all, Burns Road still maintains its stature as the pioneer food street of the country. Its uniqueness can be highlighted by the fact that no big food chains have been able to make any inroads into the area, despite the large crowds the street manages to attract on a daily basis.   Today, the public has the convenient option of restaurants that deliver, but what they cannot deliver is the essence of Karachi one can only find in the food at Burns Road. True food lovers prefer to step out of their houses and work places to especially visit this street and eat food that feels like home. Despite everything that has changed, Burns Road remains the identity of Karachi, and in my view, will remain so for many decades to come. Amongst all the food centres of our country, Burns Road is to food what Sachin Tendulkar is to cricket, and what Cristiano Ronaldo is to football – the ultimate icon.

A lot of opposition fan base mocks Liverpool supporters for their eternal optimism. “Next year will be your year” is one of the catchphrases we Reds are endlessly teased with. But is anticipating success really that farfetched, when it comes to us Kopites? We are often accused of living in the past. The whole of 80s along with late 70s is the time period when we were at the ultimate peak of our power. With four European cups in eight years, added to league titles almost every season, Liverpool were unarguably the best team on the continent. But ever since, it admittedly has been lean. But despite spending most of my adulthood suffering through the banter era, I am about to watch my team play in the third European final. For comparison purposes, during our rough phase, these three final appearances are the same number that Chelsea (2), Arsenal (1), Manchester City (0) and Tottenham (0) have together managed to muster in their entire history of existence. You say deluded, I say justified bragging. We are special and we know it. But one club that can rightly claim to be even more remarkable in that particular facet happens to be our opponents in the encounter that we are to play tomorrow. Real Madrid are the kings of Europe and rightly so. Their 12 European Cup successes are almost twice the number of AC Milan’s trophy wins which stand at seven, with Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Barcelona sharing the third spot with five each respectively. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid players lift the trophy after Real Madrid won the UEFA Champions League final football match between Juventus and Real Madrid at The Principality Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on June 3, 2017. Photo: Getty[/caption] The Champions League final to be played at the Olimpiyskiy National Sports Complex in Kyiv, is undoubtedly the biggest match in club football this calendar year. As it happens, it is about to be contested between two of the most decorated clubs in the tournament’s history. Jürgen Klopp’s last five finals as a manager have all ended in defeat, while Zinedine Zidane is gunning for his third consecutive European cup; yet to taste defeat in any of the knockout round ties ever since he has taken charge of the Spanish club. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] In this composite image a comparision has been made between head coach Juergen Klopp of Liverpool (L) and head coach Zinedine Zidane of Real Madrid. Photo: Getty[/caption] Real will justifiably enter the arena as huge favourites tomorrow, but while Los Blancos have experience on their side, the Reds can boast relentless energy. Their likely starting XI will comprise an average age of 25.9 versus Real’s 29.1, with James Milner the only player over 30 versus five in Madrid’s. If Real has Cristiano Ronaldo, the highest goal-scorer in this season’s tournament, spearheading its attack, then Liverpool can flaunt its deadly attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino, tied at second, and Sadio Mane ranked third in the goal-scoring charts respectively. They can completely annihilate teams within minutes with their mesmeric combination of pace, precision and trickery. If the Spaniards have the intelligence of Zidane, the Merseysiders are in possession of Klopp’s charisma. And if they have ice in their veins, then we have fire in our bellies. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his side's first goal during the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final, second leg match between Real Madrid and Juventus at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on April 11, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] 24th February 2018, Anfield, Liverpool, England; EPL Premier League football, Liverpool versus West Ham United; Sadio Mane, Mohammed Salah and Roberto Firminho of Liverpool combine to attack the West Ham defence. Photo: Getty[/caption] Both Liverpool and Real Madrid are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation with Reds’ starting XI picking itself up due to injuries and available option. Loris Karius would start between the posts with Trent Alexander-Arnold , Dejan Lovren, Virgil Van Dijk and Andrew Robertson slotting in the four defensive positions. Midfield three for Liverpool is widely expected to consist of Jordan Henderson, Milner and Georginio Wijnaldum with Adam Lallana starting on the bench and Emre Can still a doubt. The front trio of Salah, Firmino and Mane needs no introduction. Zidane’s charges are sure to include the favoured back five of Keylor Navas, Dani Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane and Marcelo Vieira. With Toni Kroos and Luka Modric, the two in centre joined by either Mateo Kovacic or Carlos Casemiro. Their front three would surely include Ronaldo and Karim Benzema supported by one of either Gareth Bale,  Marco Asensio or Isco. Real’s tactics would likely involve targeting Liverpool’s right side with rookie Arnold potentially being considered as a weak link. Both Ronaldo and the swash buckling Marcelo will test the teenager severely. But on the flip side, all these marauding runs by the Brazilian could open up a gap in Real’s defence which Salah can surely exploit. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="620"] Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on May 6, 2018 in London, England. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Lionel Messi of Barcelona battles for the ball with Marcelo (L) and Casemiro of Madrid during the La Liga match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at the Camp Nou stadium on May 06, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] Real Madrid would never play ultra-conservative tactics and that would play straight into Liverpool’s hands. If the Spanish side is arrogant enough to think they are going to get an easy time against our lot, they are in for a shock. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Photo: Facebook/ Champions League[/caption] As Klopp has rightly mentioned throughout our run to the final that this should not be taken as pressure; it’s an opportunity. A chance for the current crop of Liverpool players to carve their names in history books, and be eternally remembered as legends. Come on you mighty Reds. What we do now, echoes in eternity! Allez! Allez! Allez!

Today, when you think of Real Madrid, you can’t help but mention the UEFA Champions League (UCL). Three in a row and four in five years is not an easy feat to achieve. However, the word impossible changed for Real Madrid a little over two years ago. After Carlo Ancelotti’s shot in the dark and thanks to Sergio Ramos’s unforgettable header at the 93^rd minute, Real Madrid managed to earn La Decima. The season that followed, however, made everyone question if this team even deserved to be the Champions of Europe. Due to reckless decisions made by our former manager, Real Madrid faced an embarrassing trophy-less season, which led to Ancelotti being fired. Rafael Benitez’s short-lived stay at Santiago Bernabeu is still remembered, many questioned Florentino Perez’s decision to change managers mid-season, but the decision was already taken and in came Real Madrid’s very own superman, Zinedine Zidane. https://twitter.com/Rehan_ulhaq/status/1002149231401013248 Zidane came in with no experience of managing a top-tier team and just to reiterate, he came in mid-season when Real Madrid were already through to the last 16 in UCL. Not only was this risky, but managing a team like Real Madrid was no piece of cake. Take every player who is a master of their own skill, and put them together, that is what Los Blancos are. With players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Marcelo Vieira, Sergio Ramos, Toni Kroos and Gareth Bale all in one team, keeping all of them happy is not a job for everyone, let alone someone with zero experience. However, what happened next is probably not short of a miracle. Zidane not only managed to bring every player in the team together, he actually led us to victory in the Champions League that season. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane shows the trophy after winning the UEFA Champions League Final match between Real Madrid and Club Atletico de Madrid at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 28, 2016 in Milan, Italy. Photo: Getty[/caption] The next season started off with a bang. Win after win, Real Madrid did not spare any team. Even though Real did not finish off unbeatable, they managed to win the La Liga title after five years. Moreover, The Meringues were also in the race for the Champions League title twice in a row. No team had ever been able to do that, yet every Madridista knew in their hearts that this team was not your average team. With Zidane’s leadership, they were a force to be reckoned with. I remember having this conversation with a friend who is a United fan. He told me it can’t happen; it’s too far-fetched. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid's French head coach Zinedine Zidane is tossed by players at the end of the Spanish league football match Malaga CF vs Real Madrid at La Rosaleda stadium in Malaga on May 21, 2017. Photo: AFP[/caption] Not only that but we were facing Juventus, who were in top form and probably hungrier for the title than us. But what they didn’t know was that this team had forgotten how to lose. And so, Zidane became the first manager to defend the title in the Champions League. That stellar season led to Real Madrid winning five titles: the European Cup, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane poses with the UEFA Champions League trophy during the UEFA Champions League Final match between Juventus and Real Madrid at National Stadium of Wales on June 3, 2017 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Getty[/caption] This last season was probably the worst Real has seen in a while. Getting kicked out of the La Liga race early on and without any major trophies to their name, Champions League was all that they had left. There were questions about Zidane’s tried and tested approach in games. His strategies were old and it seemed he wasn’t basing his games on tactics but the players he liked. Lucas Vasquez’s presence in many games last season seemed to be frowned upon by many, especially since he had been performing pretty average most of the season. His repeated diamond formation was being criticised. Other teams were catching upto Real’s tactics and it seemed like Zidane couldn’t find a way to beat them. This is probably the reason why people supported Liverpool to win the Champions League final. Not only was Mohamed Salah playing exceptional football, the Reds were displaying masterful tactics. But the Gods of fate had something else in mind. Zidane used his lethal weapon Bale and sent him off to the field after which, history was made yet again. The Whites lifted their 13^th title; third in a row, and Zidane became the first manager to defend his title, not once but twice. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="448"] Head coach Zinedine Zidane of Real Madrid celebrates with The UEFA Champions League trophy following his sides victory in the UEFA Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Liverpool at NSC Olimpiyskiy Stadium on May 26, 2018 in Kiev, Ukraine. Photo: Getty[/caption] The news of his departure from Real came when I was going home from work. At first I thought it must be a joke because he just won the Champions League; all those rumours of him being sacked because of a trophy-less season should have been dropped. However, it was true and five days into winning the Champions League, Zidane decided to leave. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WqAtIXieV40 He believes that a change is required if the team was to continue winning.

“After three years [Real] need another discourse, another working methodology, and that’s why I took this decision,” he said. “I think it’s the moment to go and I also think the players need a change. They’re the ones who fight on the pitch. It’s not easy for them; it’s a demanding club, a club with a huge history and the players are always squeezed, we always want more and more and there is a moment when you think: ‘Well, what more can I ask of my players?’”

Imagine getting the chance to have your dessert before you are even properly done with the starters. Now that is precisely how the Friday night derby at the Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi feels like. The FIFA World Cup in Russia would barely be a day-old, when Portugal and Spain lock their horns to determine which one of the two Iberian rivals would proceed to the next round as the likely winner from Group B. With the reigning European champions set to go against the winners of the 2010 edition, group stage encounters cannot get any bigger than this. Historically though, Spain has always had the upper hand, with 18 victories, 12 draws and only six losses in 36 matches against Portugal. The last time these two neighbours met was in the semi-final of Euro 2012, where La Furia Roja advanced to the final following penalties. They later went on to lift the trophy by beating Italy in the final. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Jesus Navas, Sergio Ramos and Andres Iniesta of Spain celebrate the winning penalty during the UEFA EURO 2012 semi final match between Portugal and Spain at Donbass Arena on June 27, 2012 in Donetsk, Ukraine. Photo: Getty[/caption] The odds were in Spain’s favour but the abrupt sacking of Coach Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the World Cup, could potentially throw a spanner in the works. Lopetegui was shockingly dismissed following the news of him becoming the new Real Madrid boss. The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) claimed they were completely unaware of this particular development and had to sack the 51-year-old because the negotiation occurred “without any information to the RFEF”. Spain Sporting Director Fernando Hierro will now take charge for the World Cup. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Spain's coach Julen Lopetegui stands during the friendly football match between Spain and Tunisia at Krasnodar's stadium on June 9, 2018. Photo: AFP[/caption] There were reports that the Spanish players were in favour of Lopetegui staying on for the duration of the tournament, so his dismissal after a hugely successful two-year period would surely leave Spain in a worse position than they were before this whole fiasco. With two European Cups and a World Cup, Vicente Del Bosque’s eight-year reign was the golden-era for Spanish football. Lopetegui with his impressive record as the national team coach was potentially on his way to emulate Del Bosque, but for now, he would only have to make do watching his former team perform under Hierro from afar. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] The new coach of the Spanish national football team, Fernando Hierro (C), attends a training session at Krasnodar Academy on June 13, 2018, ahead of the Russia 2018 World Cup football tournament. Photo: AFP[/caption] Heading into the tournament, the Spaniards won nine and drew one of the 10 qualifying games, while Portugal had to book their spot in Russia after narrowly avoiding the play-offs, when they edged out Switzerland on the final day. So Spain does have momentum on their side, but again with huge question marks over how quickly the new coach can have the squad firing on all cylinders. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Portugal's forward Andre Silva (17) celebrates with teammates after scoring during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying football match between Portugal and Switzerland at the Luz stadium in Lisbon, Portugal on October 10, 2017. Photo: Getty[/caption] In terms of personnel, Spain is blessed with the majestic midfield of Andres Iniesta and David Silva, along with David De Gea, arguably the best goalkeeper in the world, between the sticks. Portugal, on the other hand, can boast the current World Player Of The Year, Cristiano Ronaldo, amongst its ranks. The Portuguese legend might be getting on in terms of age, but inside the box he is still as lethal as ever. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Andres Iniesta of Spain runs with the ball during the International Friendly match between Spain and Switzerland at Estadio de La Ceramica on June 3, 2018 in Villareal, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] David De Gea of Spain reacts during the international friendly match between Spain and Argentina at Wanda Metropolitano stadium on March 27, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal reacts during the friendly match of preparation for FIFA 2018 World Cup between Portugal and Algeria at the Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica on June 7, 2018 in Lisboa, Portugal. Photo: Getty[/caption] This particular encounter is also significant for both Spain and Portugal since it could go a long way in banishing the memories of their collective exits from the last World Cup. Portugal were trashed 4-0 by Germany in their opening match before being eliminated from the group stages due to the worse goal difference to the United States, who finished second behind the Germans. Spain, on the hand, were caught up in a nightmare of their own. Their first game against the Netherlands ended in a 1-5 drubbing which was such a shock to their collective system that the defending world champions ended up exiting the tournament at the first hurdle. With Morocco and Iran forming the rest of the set, the winner from the first match between Portugal and Spain would surely emerge from the first round as Group B winner. The prize at stake is a round-of-16 tie against the runners-up from Group A, with likely opponents being either Russia or Egypt, two of the weakest teams in the tournament on paper. My prediction though is that it will be a 1-1 draw, which will keep things interesting till the last match for Group B. So with a mouth-watering clash to kick start the World Cup fever, let’s just sit back, relax and enjoy the whole ride. Expected lineups: Portugal: Formation: 4-2-2-2 Rui Patrício – Cédric Soares, José Fonte, Pepe, Raphaël Guerreiro – Ricardo Carvalho, João Moutinho – Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva – Gonçalo Guedes, Ronaldo Spain: Formation: 4-3-2-1 De Gea – César Azpilicueta, Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos, Jordi Alba – Thiago Alcântara, Sergio Busquets, Iniesta – Isco, Silva – Diego Costa

Whether it is fiction or real life, generally people find it easier to get behind the underdogs because of the more appealing nature. Harvard Business Review (HBR) once stated its viewpoint on underdog brands which is quite similar to what happens in football.

“The biographies of underdog brands share two important narrative components: a disadvantaged position (they highlight a company’s humble beginnings and portray it as being 'outgunned' by bigger, better-resourced competitors) and a passion and determination to triumph against the odds,” an extract from the HBR report said.

This is a clipping of a supposed interview, attributed to Pelé, going viral on social media these days. It goes as follows: https://twitter.com/EPLBible/status/1011371753539604486 This citation, to the best of my knowledge, is a complete fabrication. But the funny part is that if you analyse Argentina’s performances over the course of FIFA World Cup 2018, you would completely understand where the Brazilian legend would be coming from, if he actually said it. Following a dreadful start to their World Cup campaign, La Albiceleste was staring right in the face of an embarrassing exit. Their painful draw against Iceland in the first match coupled with their humiliating defeat at the hands of Croatia in their second, placed them in a nerve-racking, do or die encounter against the Nigerians. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Iceland goalkeeper Hannes Halldorsson stops a penalty kick by Lionel Messi (10) of Argentina during the second half of a World Cup group stage match at Spartak Stadium in Moscow on June 16, 2018. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Lionel Messi and team mate Sergio Aguero of Argentina show their dejection during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Argentina and Croatia at Nizhniy Novgorod Stadium on June 21, 2018 in Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Javier Mascherano, Nicolas Otamendi and Lionel Messi of Argentina look dejected during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Argentina and Croatia at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 21, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] Argentina started the game tentatively, but then as the age-old saying goes,

 “Cometh the hour, cometh the man.”

The stage has been set. Stadium lights are ablaze. Billions around the world are worshipping the black and white ball. Even those who don’t really follow football are simply tailgating and gathering in groups to cheer on their favourite teams. The FIFA World Cup is already shaping up to be more exciting than many had hoped. Hosts Russia kicked off the 2018 World Cup against Saudi Arabia in Moscow. There have already been some shocks: Russia, the lowest-ranked team in the competition, was the first to qualify for the Round-of-16; defending champions Germany have been knocked out of the competition; Argentina just made it through by an inch; and who can forget Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal is still going strong (special mention of his amazing hat-trick). Four years ago, while I was in the UK, the thing that got us through our final dissertation was the football World Cup. It was also Ramazan during those months and post-iftar, we used to rush to the piazza and watch the matches on the big screen. The most memorable match for us was the one where Brazil was knocked out by eventual champions Germany with a score of 7-1. While we were waiting to break our fasts, our mobile football alerts suddenly kept going off in an almost haphazard fashion. We could not contain our excitement and rushed towards the big screen, the food not even down our windpipe at that point. It does not matter what type of football fan you are – die hard, casual or “I just love football parties” – everything is accepted and loved for their own brand of fandom. Pakistan is no different. It generates almost as much hype as the cricket World Cup. There are match screenings all around and late night sittings have become a norm. The match-talk the next day is absolutely compulsory because it is football season again! I have always supported the Spaniards. The 2010 World Champions, Spain are not the same La Furia (The Fury) that dominated international football from 2008 to 2012, but with players like Sergio Ramos, Isco and Andres Iniesta at their disposal, they remain one of the most lethal teams in the world. I wanted to do something native Russian to honour the hosts but then Golubtsy (shredded or minced beef wrapped in cabbage and steamed or boiled until cooked) or Rassolnik (beef, barley and pickle soup) would not have found much favour with the spice-loving Pakistani tastebuds! Instead, here are extremely easy snacks to munch on as you entertain/host fans or cheer on your favourite teams. Nachos There is no right and wrong when it comes to homemade nacho recipes. Personally, I love how much room there is for customisation in each and every batch. It is basically a foodie’s dream come true. Tortilla chips Ingredients: Corn flour: 1 cup Flour: ½ cup Salt: ½ tsp Oil: 2 tsp Garlic powder: ½ tsp Oregano as per your taste Red chilli as per your taste Method: 1. Mix all dry ingredients together, and then mix oil in it. 2. Add water slowly, and divide the dough into small balls. 3. Roll them out thin, cut them in triangular shape and fry on normal flame Cheese sauce Ingredients: Milk: ½ cup Cream: ½ cup Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup Method: 1. Add milk and cream in the microwave and heat for 10 seconds. 2. Add the remaining ingredients and put it back into the microwave for another 10 seconds or until cheese melts. 3. Mix well and voila! Your cheese sauce is ready! Salsa Ingredients: Tomatoes: 2 large Garlic: 2 cloves Green Chilli: 1 Capsicum: ½ Salt and Pepper according to taste Olive Oil: 2 tbsp Method: 1. Put all the ingredients in a chopper and blend them well. Assemble Spread your tortilla chips on a platter, drizzle your cheese sauce on top, and sprinkle chopped onions, tomatoes and capsicums, or whichever toppings you prefer, such as beans! Serve with salsa and enjoy!

The 2018 FIFA World Cup has reached a fascinating stage. After a dramatic Round of 16, which saw two of this generation’s greatest players, Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Argentina’s Lionel Messi, exiting the tournament on the same day, the quarter finals treated us to some memorable encounters, with England and France – both one-time champions – breezing past their opponents Sweden and Uruguay respectively. Belgium beat heavy tournament-favourites Brazil, courtesy of a classic display of quick counterattacking football, while Croatia defeated a spirited Russian side on penalties. Neither Belgium nor Croatia have ever won the World Cup. The semi-final line-up has two tasty encounters, with France taking on Belgium on Tuesday (11pm PST), and England facing Croatia a day later (11pm PST). Here, we breakdown the two games and see what the four European teams have to offer. France versus Belgium Arguably two of the tournament’s biggest entertainers, France and Belgium will meet tomorrow to go head-to-head for a place in the World Cup final. They have played each other 73 times in the past – Belgium have won 30 times, France have 24 victories to their name, while 19 games have ended in draws. The last meeting between the two, in 2015, ended with Belgium winning an entertaining match 4-3. France, tournament favourites behind Brazil, are gifted with talented players. With the pacey, 19-year-old Kylian Mbappe, ably supported by Ousmane Dembele and the wonderful Antoine Griezmann, France are a frightening attacking prospect. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Raphael Varane of France celebrates with team mates Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann after scoring his team's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Winner Game 49 and Winner Game 50 at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on July 6, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] Anchored by the brilliant midfielders N’Golo Kante, Paul Pogba, and the technically-gifted Steven N’Zonzi, the solid centre-back pairing of Raphael Varane and Samuel Umtiti, and with one of the best goalkeepers, Hugo Lloris, France have kept two clean sheets in the tournament, most impressively against the attacking Uruguayan duo of Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Ever Banega of Argentina is challenged by Paul Pogba and Samuel Umtiti of France during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Hugo Lloris of France makes a save during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Uruguay and France at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on July 6, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] Their 4-3 victory over Argentina, after going down 2-1, showed a steely doggedness that seemed lost after their Euro 2016 Final heartbreak against Portugal. With an average age of just 26 years, France (along with England) are the youngest team in the tournament, and play with incredible imagination. However, Belgium present the toughest test for Manager Didier Deschamps’s young Les Bleus. Belgium, the leading scorers in this World Cup, have scored 14 times in five games leading up to their 74^th meeting with the Les Bleus. Led by their powerful attacking unit of Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard, Belgium have become a devastating attacking force under the guidance of manager Roberto Marinez and his assistant, legendary striker Thierry Henry. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Kevin De Bruyne, Nacer Chadli, Thomas Meunier and Romelu Lukaku celebrate after scoring and winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Belgium and Japan at Rostov Arena on July 2, 2018 in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] They have not lost a match since their defeat against Spain in an international friendly in 2016, and average a little over three goals per match since that match. They have leaders from back to front – centrebacks Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Thomas Vermaelen, Vincent Kompany, and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois are either currently captaining their club sides or have captained them in the past. Midfield lynchpins Moussa Dembele, Axel Witsel and Marouane Fellaini add steel to the midfield, while flying wingers Nacer Chadli, Adnan Januzaj and Yannick Carrasco present dynamic options in attack. https://twitter.com/BrazilStat/status/1014839040254849025 [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Vincent Kompany of Belgium celebrates at the end of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Brazil and Belgium at Kazan Arena on July 6, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Marouane Fellaini of Belgium and Neymar of Brazil battle for the ball during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Brazil and Belgium at Kazan Arena on July 6, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] However, Belgium have only kept one clean sheet in the tournament (against a second-string England side in the group stage), and conceded cheap goals against Tunisia and Japan, showing possible defensive frailties in an otherwise impeccable side. With an average age of around 27 years, Belgium’s golden generation has players in every position who are playing at their peaks, and after beating tournament favourites, Brazil, are hunting to bring down another favourite to make a place in the final on Sunday. The mouth-watering clash between these two sides will be one for the ages, and with both the sides having defensive frailties but severely gifted attacking players, this could very well turn out to be a high-scoring treat for neutrals. I predict that the match will be drawn 2-2; Belgium would win on penalties. England versus Croatia The World Cup’s dark horses Croatia, face England on Wednesday. The two have played each other just seven times in the past – England having a slight edge over their opponents, winning four times, with Croatia winning twice, and one encounter ending in stalemate. The last meeting between the two, in 2009, was won 5-1 by England in the 2010 World Cup qualifier. However, Croatia’s 3-2 win over England in 2008 ended England’s hopes of qualifying for the 2008 European Championships, something the English team will look to avenge. Croatia have a perfect blend of experience and youthful flair in their team to aid their World Cup quest. Arguably the best side in the group stages, their 3-0 win over Argentina showed the side’s depth and technical prowess – capping off one of the finest team displays in recent memory. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcM5n71XmBo They topped their group – comfortably beating Nigeria and winning against Iceland, despite resting a number of key players. Led by their midfield maestro Luka Modric, along with Ivan Rakitic – the two combine to form arguably the best centre-midfield pairing at the tournament – and the impressive centre-forward play of striker Mario Mandzukic, Croatia have been a joy to watch. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Ivan Rakitic of Croatia celebrates with teammate Luka Modric of Croatia after scoring his team's third goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Argentina and Croatia at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 21, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Vedran Corluka, Luka Modric and Mario Mandzukic of Croatia celebrate winning the penalty shoot out during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Russia and Croatia at Fisht Stadium on July 7, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] However, they have been less impressive in the knockout stages, requiring penalties to beat both Denmark and the hosts, Russia. On the flip side, this shows the mental steel of the side and their relentless attitude to make things fall their way in the face of adversity. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the Croatians to beat a solid England side and advance to their first-ever major international tournament final. England following years of heartbreak at the international football front seem to have finally found the right mix of experience, youth and steel, following the appointment of former England international player and former manager of the Under-21 side, Gareth Southgate. Transitioning from a team of individuals to an actual “team”, and led by talisman and leading Golden Boot contender, Harry Kane, England have been impressive in all of their matches, scoring a remarkable 11 goals, and have emerged somewhat as set-piece specialists, scoring six of those goals from dead-ball situations. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Coach of England Gareth Southgate greets Harry Kane following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Sweden and England at Samara Arena on July 7, 2018 in Samara, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] The defensive unit of Kyle Walker, John Stones and Harry Maguire, has pace, athleticism and incredible defensive shrewdness, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford impressing critics with his brilliant ball distribution from the 18-yard box. The midfield presence of Jordan Henderson, the trickery of Dele Alli, and the pace of Jesse Lingard and Raheem Sterling have combined to allow the team to function brilliantly. England’s two unsung heroes, wingbacks Kieran Trippier and Ashley Young have regularly been threats on the flanks as well. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Dele Alli, Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Jesse Lingard of England celebrate following their sides victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Sweden and England at Samara Arena on July 7, 2018 in Samara, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] England’s dominating performances against Tunisia and Panama in the group stage, and their second-string’s brave display against an almost-full strength Belgian side, showed just how well the group has gelled together following Southgate’s appointment in September 2016. Their first-ever penalty shootout victory at a major tournament against Colombia in the Round of 16 and their dominant performance against Sweden in the quarter final only goes to show the team’s amazing resolve. With strength in depth to call upon the likes of the electric Marcus Rashford and Jamie Vardy, the England squad has all the right ingredients to flourish. Their match against a mighty Croatian side will surely be their toughest test yet! [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Marcus Rashford, Kieran Trippier, Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy of England celebrate the victory while Radamel Falcao of Colombia (right) is dejected after the penalty shootout of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Colombia and England at Spartak Stadium on July 3, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] With England firing in all cylinders and peaking at just the right time, Croatia face a tough task of keeping England at bay. Coupled with their defensive issues, Croatia will have to be at their best to keep the England giant quiet. Otherwise, as the song in England goes,

“It’s coming home!”

I remember holding my phone, staring at the screen, reading my friend’s message:

 “Zinedine Zidane has left us.”

“What happened to her?”

“Oh, probably something related to football.”

“So, your Zidane is leaving?”

“Oh please, not again!” I rolled my eyes and continued scrolling.

“Cristiano Ronaldo is a big name, that’s how they sell their papers, you know,” I told myself – or consoled myself? I don’t know.

“Real Madrid? Or Imaginary Madrid?”

“It’s Royal in Spanish. We’re the Royals of the football world.”

“Thank you to everyone and, of course, like I said for the first time in our stadium nine years ago: Hala Madrid!”

According to a vast majority of people, this might just have been the best FIFA World Cup ever. And probably for one of the really rare moments in my life, I wouldn’t be a total cynic and would align myself with the popular opinion. Football’s showpiece event in Russia had it all. It had video assistant referee (VAR) controversies, major upsets, memorable contests, and bucket loads of goals; more per game than in three of the last four tournaments. In fact, if you were trying to create a perfect month-long sporting spectacle in a lab somewhere, an outcome like the just concluded tournament in Russia would have made you a very happy scientist. So it was only right that the France versus Croatia encounter provided a fitting finale to an electrifying competition. Seasoned football followers would surely remember how the last two FIFA World Cup finals were dull and dreary affairs, finishing nil- nil after 90 minutes. And only a solitary goal during extra time prevented the ties going to that joke of a lottery, which in football parlance, is known as a penalty shootout. It only took 18 minutes for Les Bleus to open their account, but the source was the unfortunate head of Croatia’s centre-forward Mario Mandzukic. The lead up to the first goal wasn’t entirely short of controversy either. Man of the Match, Antoine Griezmann clearly dived for the free kick that led to France’s opening goal in the contest. But since VAR cannot intervene when an event occurs outside the penalty area, the goal stood. However, VAR did have a big part to play in the following moments. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scores an own goal for France's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] In the space of 10 short minutes, the Croats equalised through a stunning Ivan Perisic strike. But another 10 minutes later, the French lead was restored when Argentinian referee Néstor Pitana was forced to change his earlier decision of a corner kick when he decided to consult the VAR following French players vocal protestations. VAR was brought into play, yet bizarrely, the Argentine decided to controversially award a penalty kick to the former world champions on basis of an obviously unintentional handball. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Ivan Perisic of Croatia celebrates with team mates after scoring his team's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] Griezmann was clearly not in a charitable mood, and duly dispatched the spot kick to put Les Bleus ahead before the half-time break. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Antoine Griezmann of France celebrates after scoring a penalty for his team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] After the interval, France emerged with an even more ruthless swagger. And two strikes within six minutes of each other, either side of the hour mark, from Paul Pogba and Kylian Mbappe seemingly put the contest to its metaphorical bed. But the never-say-die attitude of the Croatian football team, that was ever so apparent throughout the tournament, was in no mood to die an early death. Especially now, especially at this grandest of stage. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Paul Pogba of France celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Kylian Mbappe of France celebrates after scoring his team's fourth goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] French captain Hugo Lloris surely must have been a huge fan of the Croatian resilience and sensing that they needed a glimmer of hope to spark their unbreakable spirit, he just went ahead and gifted them a goal completely out of nowhere. Samuel Umtiti’s back pass was dallied over by the goalkeeper and the lurking Mandzukic was on hand to toe the ball into the inviting net . [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Hugo Lloris of France reacts following Mario Mandzukic of Croatia scoring his team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] At this point, French coach Didier Deshchamps would have sensed that his imminent record of becoming only the third person ever to have won the coveted trophy as both a player and coach was in serious danger. Hence, he sent on a few substitutes to set up shop and simply smothered the life out of the contest to help France to its second FIFA World Cup victory by an exciting scoreline of 4-2. Luka Modric was rightly handed the Golden Ball, but the star of the tournament was surely a certain French teenager who also happens to be the second most expensive player in the world. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] 2018 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner, Croatia's Luka Modric (L) and France's Kylian Mbappe, who has won the 2018 FIFA World Cup Best Young player award, during an award ceremony after the 2018 FIFA World Cup Final match between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium. Photo: Getty[/caption] Mbappe came, he saw and he conquered. The whole world was expecting Neymar to use Russia as the stage to announce his claim on the throne as the future best player in the world. But Mbappe simply toppled the Brazilian reign before he even started to establish himself as Lionel Messi/Cristiano Ronaldo’s crown prince. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Kylian Mbappe of France is seen during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final between France and Croatia at Luzhniki Stadium on July 15, 2018 in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] The 19-year-old scored four goals in the tournament, including one in the final to become the first teenager since Pele to score in the closing match of a FIFA World Cup event. Smart money should certainly be on the French teenage sensation to finish his career with more Ballon d’Or than the Brazilian whiner. The best part about the whole event is how most of the critics would have picked France as the eventual champions and yet FIFA World Cup 2018 proved to be such a thrilling affair. The only downside to this whole experience is how we now have to wait for four more years for our next fix.

As the Premier League (EPL) finally returns (and my life has meaning again) there are major hopes and expectations placed upon a club’s new players. There have been record-breaking transfers this summer window and some interesting players have joined the English league. Here is a list of five (obvious and not-so-obvious) signings that could potentially change the fortunes of the clubs they have joined. Disclaimer: This list only includes players who have joined from other leagues. 1. Frederico Rodrigues (Fred): Amidst the lack of late signings and Jose Mourinho’s melt-down, we seem to have forgotten that early on Manchester United signed Brazilian midfielder Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk. If utilised properly, he could help Paul Pogba shine, and provide United the ability to contest for the Premier League title (don’t laugh yet, hear me out). When Fred was signed from the Ukrainian club, the United manager said he would provide an “extra dimension” to the United midfield. While the Brazilian midfielder did not play a single minute for his national team at the World Cup, his quick feet and ability to initiate counter attacks will fit right in with Mourinho’s brand of football. During pre-season, his ball control was the talk of the town. The Brazilian can dribble and find his way out of tight spaces. While not a prolific goal scorer, the 25-year-old will surely create chances for the likes of Pogba, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Sanchez. So while United has been in the media lately for all the wrong reasons, it must not be forgotten that they have Pogba returning from his World Cup high, where Lukaku also has had an impressive tournament. Fred’s arrival frees up the former from his defensive duties and allows the latter to lurk on the shoulder of the last man in order to get onto his through balls. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos (24) and Manchester United midfielder Fred (17) battle for the ball in the first half at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla., on Tuesday, July 31, 2018. Photo: Getty[/caption] 2. Lucas Torreira: Arsenal have had a busy transfer window, with new manager Unai Emery at the helm. One of their more outstanding transfers has been Torreira from Sampdoria who may finally solve the London side’s defensive midfield issues. Torreira had a decent World Cup, showing off his discipline and defensive awareness. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="479"] Lucas Torreira of Arsenal during the Pre-season friendly between Arsenal and SS Lazzio on August 4, 2018 in Stockholm, Sweden. Photo: Getty[/caption] At five-foot-six, the dental braces-donning 22-year-old may not seem a like a physical threat, but his shoulder barge that sent Cristiano Ronaldo to the ground showed he has the aggressive mindset Arsenal need to get back into the top four. With football’s evolution, Torreira’s speed and agility are certainly more important than strength. Torreira made the second highest number of tackles in Serie A last season while he was also among the top five when it came to completing passes. This shows that the Uruguayan can contribute to the team both defensively while also helping in the build-up. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal is challenged by Lucas Torreira of Uruguay during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Uruguay and Portugal at Fisht Stadium on June 30, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. Photo: Getty[/caption] If Aaron Ramsey chooses to stay, Torreira could also help balance the Welshman’s tendency to run forward. Torreira also has the capability of playing with multiple partners and it will be interesting to see how the new manager sets up the team. The main hole in Arsenal’s team has been plugged – the team conceded the second highest number of goals last season – and Torreira will be a real asset as Arsenal aim to qualify for Champions League again. 3. Jorge Luiz (Jorginho): Sarri-ball has arrived in the Premier League and the main fulcrum will be none other than the Italian, Jorginho. The 26-year-old joined Chelsea the same day new manager Maurizio Sarri did from Napoli, having flourished at the Italian club under him. The defensive midfielder can provide a transition between Chelsea’s midfield and defence. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Chelsea Unveil New Signing Jorginho with Chelsea Head Coach Maurizio Sarri at Stamford Bridge on July 13, 2018 in London, England. Photo: Getty[/caption] The 26-year-old, often compared to Andrea Pirlo, has earned high praises and was even a Manchester City target back in May. Jorginho was a key player in Napoli, where last season they gave Juventus a run for their money in the league title run. Back in 2014, he described himself as,

“Trying to always be in the thick of things, two touches and then go, simple things. I get forward and run a lot, roughly 12 kilometres a match.”

With the start of the new season, Real Madrid find themselves in an unusual position due to the departure of the two most important individuals, Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane. What transpired over the transfer window was not unfathomable but it still leaves the club in a precarious situation with question marks over the team’s progress in the next season and beyond. To say that Real Madrid will not miss the absence of Ronaldo and Zidane within their ranks in the upcoming season would be like narrating a Banbury story of a cock and bull. Ronaldo’s unprecedented excellence coupled with Zizou’s unique managerial astuteness is a combination that the Los Blancos will sorely miss, especially in the near future. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Cristiano Ronaldo of Juventus in action during the Serie A match between Chievo Verona and Juventus at Stadio Marc'Antonio Bentegodi on August 18, 2018 in Verona, Italy. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane during the celebration of the Thirteen Champions League at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain. May 27, 2018. Photo: Getty[/caption] The club must tread carefully in order to avoid making matters worse and neutralise the impact of these high profile omissions from their roster. Gareth Bale in the spotlight An injury-free Bale will be key to Real Madrid’s success this season as he will be called upon to share the goal-scoring workload, due to the lack of out-and-out goalscorers in the side. When all the other key Real Madrid players on average played over 3,000 minutes last season, Bale’s figures were quite low with 2,362 minutes over the course of the entire season. Since joining Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspurs in 2013, Bale has missed close to 100 games for the Whites, which is an excruciating figure for a player who was considered as the likely successor of Ronaldo. https://twitter.com/Realmadridplace/status/988339805791678464 [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Gareth Bale, #11 of Real Madrid during the La Liga match between Real Madrid and Getafe CF at Santiago Bernabeu on August 19, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] But perhaps now the time is just right for the Cardiff-born, 29-year-old to steal the limelight and become a central figure for the reigning European champions. Despite flowing under the radar for majority of the last season, only Ronaldo and Lionel Messi had a better goals-per-game record in La Liga last season than the Welshman. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Gareth Bale of Real Madrid celebrates after scoring his teams second goal during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and Getafe CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 19, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] Without a doubt, Bale will be key to Julen Lopetegui’s plans as the former’s work-rate and skills set — pace, aerial ability and finishing — will suit the manager’s style of play. What will Lopetegui bring to the table? Real Madrid’s decision to appoint Lopetegui to replace Zidane is an interesting one. On one side, he is in a prime position to lead the young bunch of Real Madrid youngsters – due to his prior experience with majority of them at Spanish youth level – while on the other hand, his lack of club level coaching experience could possibly be a hindrance in his success at the club. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Julen Lopetegui, head coach of Real reacts during the UEFA Super Cup between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at Lillekula Stadium on August 15, 2018 in Tallinn, Estonia. Photo: Getty[/caption] If Lopetegui’s limited club coaching experience at club level at FC Porto between 2014 and 2016 and pre-season with Real is used as a precedence to gauge his tactics, it is clearly evident that he prefers a mix of 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1. According to data from Opta, his Porto side liked to play a possession-based game, averaging over 565 attempted passes per 90, with passes played into wide areas on both flanks. It will be interesting to see what tactics does the manager deploy; will the emphasis be on the flanks with a central striker in Karim Benzema or will he adopt the false nine approach by throwing Marco Asensio in the thick of things? [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Karim Benzema of Real Madrid scores his sides first goal during the UEFA Super Cup between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at Lillekula Stadium on August 15, 2018 in Tallinn, Estonia. Photo: Getty[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Marco Asensio of Real Madrid is challenged by Francisco Portillo of Getafe CF during the La Liga match between Real Madrid and Getafe CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on August 19, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. Photo: Getty[/caption] Both the options are interesting because, firstly, Benzema’s style aids Lopetegui’s demanding cohesive pressing and counter pressing while Asensio seems equipped to play the false nine role due to his ability to cover defensively and getting into good positions, while also being clinically efficient in front of goal. Although pressing and winning the ball back was a feature of Real under Zidane, it was not consistent enough and was usually spread over sporadic phases. With Lopetegui in charge, it already seems, through pre-season matches, that the emphasis is on team structure, passing, positional awareness and pressing, which is a step in the right direction. Having said that, however, the defensive aspect of the game also needs addressing. The European Super Cup defeat at the hands of city rivals Atletico Madrid was the first time Real Madrid conceded four goals in a match since Zidane took charge from Rafa Benitez in January 2016. Bearing in mind that there is clearly a step down in Real Madrid’s attacking prowess after Ronaldo’s departure, the defensive aspect of the game will be more important as clean sheets will be pivotal in order to edge out close victories. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600"] Atletico Madrid players celebrate with the trophy after the UEFA Super Cup match between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at Lillekula Stadium on August 15, 2018 in Tallinn, Estonia. Photo: Getty[/caption] Emphasis on young talent

“In Madrid we have enough talent to be a great team.”

Lionel Messi’s first goal of this new season was a free kick that went under the jumping wall of Deportivo Alavés defenders and into the bottom right corner. He scored a similar goal against Girona in early February, that one went in the opposite corner. He also did the same for Argentina a few years ago. Free kicks that go under the wall are fun for their mischievousness. In those instances, Messi is punishing the wall for doing what it has been instructed to do, for taking the sensible action of jumping to block the free kick. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYf_iPQS9Yk Messi wasn’t the first player to score that type of free kick. Andrea Pirlo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Philippe Coutinho, Mario Gotze, Marcelo Diaz, Kyle Walker, Santi Cazorla, Elano Blumer, Rivaldo Vítor Borba Ferreira, and so many other players have punished the wall for doing their job. ESPN wrote about Messi's goal which they labelled as “Ronaldinho-esque.” The reference was to Ronaldinho de Assis Moreira’s famous free kick against Werder Bremen in the group stages of the 2006 Champions League. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aE5Kf_Ky0Q That reference to Ronaldinho triggered a realisation for me: Messi is old. It’s a fact of life that people age, but he had been so good and consistent for so long, that I had taken him for granted.

His absurd reign of dominance is almost exactly as old as Ronaldinho’s free kick. Ronaldinho’s goal was 12 years ago. Messi was 19 then. He missed that game against Bremen because of an injury, but he had already established himself on the first team. More than that, he was seen as something extraordinary.

Twelve years is a long span of time in the real world, which makes it an eternity in soccer. Things change drastically every year, given the nature of the sport. That something or someone can remain relevant, let at alone be the best, for so long is truly incredible.

He has been so many different things that to think of Messi as one self, is to miss the magic of him.

Given the nature of the sport, time makes appreciating the totality of an athlete’s career difficult. Soccer’s cycle is vicious. It devours players and discards them and inevitability leads us to forget those who weren’t the best of the best.

Teams rarely stay the same. Transfer windows mean the selling and buying of players, and can also mean a change in manager. Everyone is perpetually under threat. Once someone stops being useful, they have to be sold or released.

Within so much unceasing turnover, it can be easy to forget people, or reduce their legacies to the best three or four years that they played. When we think of Xavier Hernández Creus (Xavi), we don’t think of 2006 Xavi who was coming off the bench to replace Andres Iniesta, we think of Xavi during the Pep Guardiola years.

Ronaldinho is Ronaldinho at Barcelona – his time before and after are footnotes.

Messi’s dominance is a conundrum because not only does he exist outside this cycle, but he has violated the very idea of “peak” years. It’s hard to think of him as a whole because he’s been so distinct in different eras. There is no peak with Messi, only phases.

The Messi of Frank Rijkaard is different from that of Guardiola’s. Guardiola’s Messi was different from Tito Vilanova’s. Vilanova’s was different from Gerardo Martino’s. The same for Martino to Luis Enrique’s, and Ernesto Valverde’s Messi seems to be an all-conquering combination of his previous selves.

Messi has been a standard winger, an inverted winger, an inside forward, a false nine, a striker, a playmaker beneath the strikers, a midfielder... and now he can do whatever he wants.

Each coaching regime also brought in new teammates. Messi transformed and prospered with so many different forwards. He’s been in the front three with Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto’o, then with Thierry Henry and Eto’o, and another with Pedro Eliezer Rodríguez Ledesma and David Villa. Arguably the best combination was with Neymar and Luis Suarez. Now he is with Ousmane Dembélé and Suarez. He’s been with Alexis Sanchez and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, too.

Messi has also played well within different combination of midfielders. There was the famous triangle of Yaya Toure, Iniesta, and Xavi, which then replaced Toure with Sergio Busquets, and then Ivan Rakitic in place of Xavi, and now with Coutinho sometimes starting in Iniesta’s place.

With all of these different players and coaches, Messi had to adjust his style of play to fit in. In the process, he brought out the best in those around him. Before Messi, Barcelona had only won the Champions League twice. Since then, they’ve won it three times. In the last 10 years, they’ve won the league seven times, and that success extends to the Copa del Rey, UEFA Super Cup and the Supercopa de España.

I don’t think we have the language within soccer to grasp what Messi is and what he has done. He’s so out of the norm of the game that there’s no real reference point to him. We have different tools and ways to talk about him, but the most they can do is give a glimpse.

It feels rudimentary to measure him in terms of trophies won. The same goes for goals, assists, or any other statistical measurement. Conversely, even a discussion about aesthetics, emotion and intelligence doesn’t do him enough justice. For every goal and assist, there’s been a nutmeg or a defender left despairing on the ground.

We need both the subjective and objective to get close to describing what Messi is. You might say Messi is encapsulated by his most famous goal, when he beat four Getafe defenders and the goalkeeper in homage to Maradona’s 'Goal of the Century'. But we need to note what a prolific force he was too, and how often he ended seasons with 50-plus goals and 20-plus assists. Messi can play as the forward and score, and then he can drop into midfield as a deep playmaker, control the game, thrive on one-touch passes, flicks and feints... and score. He’s great in numerous positions, and always surpasses expectations.

To properly appreciate Messi, we have to capture the process of appreciating Messi. The beauty of it. The feints, nutmegs, the unsuccessful dribbles that makes one question whether he’s human or not, the one-time volley passes across the pitch that land on the feet of his teammates, the way he moves, the fear that defenders feel that is so visible to the audience, how the eyes of the audience are always fixated on him. We also have to talk about his metamorphoses, then within that, the distinction between each Messi.

We also have to talk about how normal it feels to be so uniquely captivated by a man. Somehow Messi has come to make those 50-and-20 seasons seem routine when they’re absolutely not. He is in a special place in our consciousness. Isolated. Somehow both a supernatural and standard presence in his sport.

Messi’s under-the-wall freekick goal against Alavés was Barcelona’s 6,000th goal in La Liga. He also scored the 5,000th in 2009. He has accounted for 6.4% of Barcelona’s total league goals. And he’s the first player in modern La Liga to score in 15 consecutive seasons.

None of those facts are surprising, and that’s such a weird reality.

The cycle of the sport will eventually devour and discard Messi as it has done to everyone else. That’s the inevitability and unfairness of life. He will start to falter at some point, and when he has retired, he will become a myth to the new generation of fans. They might know him through his numbers or videos of his dribbles, but it will be difficult for them to understand how tremendous he was, because we can’t even do it in the present.

Cristiano Ronaldo is so many things; father, son, partner, friend, mentor, hero, celebrity, athlete, and now an alleged rapist. Fans all over the world are offended; how is it that the hero they have put on a pedestal is accused of such a heinous crime? Is this a conspiracy by Lionel Messi fan boys to drag down Ronaldo’s good name? His admirers have come together to show their loyalties and back their forever favourite. In the midst of all this, I, a former Ronaldo fan, choose not to give him the benefit of the doubt. In cases of sexual assault, I will always believe the woman and in this case too, I choose to believe her. According to an article published by Der Spiegel, Kathryn Mayorga was 25 when she met Ronaldo, 24 then, in Las Vegas in 2009. They were both at Rain, a nightclub in Palms Casino Resort, where their paths first crossed. She mentioned that he approached her and she recognised him since he was a very popular player. There are photos of the two, where Mayorga seems to be talking to Ronaldo and they both seem to be having a good time. According to her, Ronaldo asked her for her number, which she provided, before leaving the club to go to his penthouse suite at Hotel Palms Place nearby. He messaged her to come with her friends and join him there for a party. Accepting his invitation, she went to his penthouse with her friend, but Mayorga didn’t know she was entering the devil’s den. https://twitter.com/derWinterbach/status/1046478115734720513 While in the bathroom and changing into something more appropriate for a jacuzzi, she found Ronaldo sneaking up on her. He pleaded her to touch his genitalia, and when she refused, he told her he would only let her go if she kissed him. Seeing no other way out, she agreed to kiss him, but that only made things worse. He did not let her leave the room, pushed her on the bed and raped her. She kept saying no repeatedly but that did not stop him from engaging in rape and sodomy. When she tried to pursue the case and get justice, but her character was questioned and she was forced to settle. Ronaldo bought her silence for $375,000 by making her sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), but she couldn’t move on from the trauma. Now, with a better lawyer, a much more composed self, and a more accepting political climate in the wake of #MeToo, Mayorga has decided to take on the world’s most popular footballer. https://twitter.com/mathieuvonrohr/status/1046025923655602176 Ronaldo has denied the allegations and his fans are adamant to protect their legend. Social media is filled with disgusting remarks made towards Mayorga; people are calling her a gold digger, saying that she must have wanted it, and questioning how is it rape when they can see from the event’s pictures that she was really into him. There were many who went to the extent of questioning why Ronaldo would even need to rape anyone? The amount of hatred and victim-blaming on display has made me question everything. It is so hard for us to grasp that someone we admire or care about could be a potential criminal. Yes, there are people who think clearly and want to wait for the investigation and verdict before they say anything about the case. That is a very smart thing to do. But while the case is being decided, I for one refuse to keep watching Ronaldo play like nothing happened. I refuse to slide away the thought that he was accused of raping someone, only to watch him play one last time. As someone who has been sexually abused in the past, I know how hard it is to come forward, and it is worse when no one believes you. Hence, my empathy, my support and my belief is not for the accused, it is for the woman who found the strength to finally speak up. Of course, there are false accusers, but we would do well to remember that a woman accusing a man is almost always getting the worst end of the deal. Brett Kavanaugh, Ali Zafar, Donald Trump, Bill Cosby, Harvey Weinstein, Louis CK, and so many more men did not have to go through even a minute of the shame and gaslighting that their accusers had to go through. Moreover, how do you even justify Ronaldo being innocent after looking at all the evidence? In a questionnaire he filled for his counseling team, he admitted that even though she didn’t scream, she did say ‘no’ and ‘stop’ several times. Was that not his cue to stop? Did saying ‘no’ have no significance in that ‘heated moment’? Was her consent not important? https://twitter.com/derWinterbach/status/1046479131267993600 As time goes by, it is evident that consent is an alien topic for men. What even constitutes as consent anymore? From a woman blinking in their direction to a woman smiling from afar, everything seems to be a signal for men. Is it that consent itself is something very hard to understand, or are men clearly ignoring the concept because they are having ‘too much fun’? Since Mayorga is seen smiling and dancing with Ronaldo, people believe she has apparently automatically given her consent to him. Her saying no later, is seemingly not fair to poor, lustful Ronaldo! Moreover, if he is not guilty, why would he make her sign an NDA? Back in 2009, I am pretty sure he could not have predicted the wake of #MeToo. Then why did he try so hard to hide something that according to him is ‘fake news’? He recently went on Twitter to deny the allegations and said that his “clear conscious will allow him to wait the results of a full investigation”. Assuming he meant conscience and not conscious, did his integrity, nine years ago, allow him to make the woman sign an NDA such that she could not even mention his name to her therapist? https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1047490574687907841 https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1047490701137784832 I used to admire him, I remember tearing up when he left Real Madrid and now when I look back, I am disgusted because unknowingly, I was fan-girling over an accused rapist. An investigation will hopefully take place but I don’t expect any fruitful results. He is a powerful man and an ordinary woman will never be able to defeat that kind of privilege. It is true, I am neither the judge nor the jury, but I am a woman who is infuriated, I am a former fan who is deeply hurt, I am a human being who is absolutely disgusted and there is no going back anymore. People need to realise that their heroes are capable of falling from grace; they are capable of evil because at the end of the day, they are also ordinary human beings. Rape is the worst form of violation, but it only exists because we know people are capable of that much. Then why is it so hard for us to think that even Ronaldo could be capable of it? The footballer that he was, managed to earn our respect, but the man we now know him to be, has lost it all.