football

Kick around about all things soccer; explore football's storied history, current events in the soccer sphere, the intricacies of the game and more.

Nepal’s ongoing struggle against North Korea in women’s youth football
Nepal’s women’s youth football teams have faced North Korea several times in recent history, and the results have repeatedly shown a wide gap in quality and experience. Most notably, Nepal suffered a humiliating 19-0 loss to North Korea in the 2004 AFC U-19 Women’s Asian Championship — a scoreline that remains one of the heaviest defeats in Nepal’s football history. Twenty years later, Nepal again faced North Korea in the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers and endured a crushing 11-0 defeat, highlighting that the gap between the two nations in women’s football remains large and challenging to overcome.
By Yukesh Rajbanshiabout a year ago in Cleats
Benjamin Šeško Completes €85m Move to Manchester United from RB Leipzig
Manchester United has made a major statement in the 2025 transfer window by securing the signing of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. The promising 22-year-old Slovenian striker is set to become one of the club’s key attacking players after a deal worth around €85 million, including performance-related add-ons, was agreed between the two clubs. This significant investment highlights Manchester United’s ambition to rebuild their squad with young, high-potential talent capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League.
By Sneaha Zyniiabout a year ago in Cleats
Cristiano Ronaldo Questions Ballon d’Or Credibility After Missing Nominee List Again
Once upon a time, the Ballon d’Or shortlist was almost synonymous with Cristiano Ronaldo’s name. For many years, the Portuguese superstar dominated the footballing world, not only through his phenomenal performances but also by consistently being recognized among the best players globally. However, times have changed. For the second consecutive year, Ronaldo, now in the twilight of his illustrious career, has failed to make it to the shortlist of 30 nominees for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. This surprising omission has clearly left CR7 feeling disappointed and disillusioned with the organizers of the award, or at least that is what the Portuguese legend has publicly expressed.
By laradecruzabout a year ago in Cleats
Barcelona Hit with Fines and Bans After Champions League Semi-Final Controversy
Barcelona had an impressive season last year, showing strong performances across almost all competitions. Their dominance, however, was halted in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals, where they suffered a narrow 4-3 aggregate loss to Inter Milan. The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, especially because Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick, was visibly furious over several referee decisions during the crucial second leg match. His reaction led to consequences beyond just disappointment—the UEFA disciplinary committee handed Flick a one-match ban from the upcoming Champions League campaign along with a fine of €20,000, which is equivalent to more than 28 lakh Taka. This punishment underscores the seriousness with which UEFA views conduct against match officials and the importance of maintaining respect in the game.
By laradecruzabout a year ago in Cleats
Why Real Madrid is Taking the USA by Storm in 2025: The Rise of a Football Giant
In 2025, Real Madrid is more than just a football club; it has become a cultural phenomenon sweeping across the United States. What once was a European soccer powerhouse now commands a massive following in America, captivating fans from coast to coast and reshaping the country’s sporting landscape. But what exactly is fueling this surge in popularity? The answer lies in a blend of historic success, strategic marketing, and deep cultural connections that make Real Madrid a true giant on and off the pitch.
By Kamran Zebabout a year ago in Cleats
Women’s Ballon dOr 2025 Nominees: Ranking the Top 10 Players This Year
The prestigious Women's Ballon dOr 2025 shortlist has been announced, showcasing the top talents in women’s football from around the globe. These nominees have dazzled with their performances in domestic leagues, international tournaments, and continental championships. The Women's Ballon d’Or 2025 highlights not just goal scorers but leaders, creators, and defenders who shaped the 2024-25 season. Below is an in-depth look at Women's Ballon dOr 2025, based on their impact throughout the season.
By Sneaha Zyniiabout a year ago in Cleats
Top 10 Most Aggressive Strikers in the Premier League 2025
The Premier League 2025 is packed with attacking talent, but the Most Aggressive Strikers in the Premier League 2025 stand out because they do more than just score goals. These forwards play with fierce determination, constantly pressuring defenders, fighting for every ball, and showing relentless energy on the pitch.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
PSG Dominate 2025 Ballon d’Or Shortlist with Nine Players Included
The Ballon d’Or is widely regarded as the most prestigious individual award in world football. Every player dreams of lifting this iconic trophy at least once in their career, as it symbolizes global recognition of excellence on the football pitch. The anticipation to find out who will be crowned the winner of the last season’s Ballon d’Or will finally be settled on September 22. However, ahead of the ceremony, the organizers have released the official shortlist of nominees, creating buzz and discussions among fans, analysts, and football communities worldwide.
By laradecruzabout a year ago in Cleats
Top 10 Most Accurate Corner Kick Takers in 2025
Corner kicks are some of the most important set pieces in modern football. A well-delivered corner can turn a tight match in favor of a team. In 2025, several players have mastered this art. The Most Accurate Corner Kick Takers in 2025 have shown consistency, intelligence, and technique. Their ability to place the ball precisely has helped create and convert many scoring opportunities.
By Sports Record and Stats about a year ago in Cleats
Messi Injured, But Suarez and De Paul Fire Inter Miami into Leagues Cup Quarter-Finals
Inter Miami’s latest Leagues Cup match brought mixed emotions for fans as star forward Lionel Messi suffered a hamstring injury in just the eighth minute, forcing him to leave the field early. The Argentine captain’s exit sent shockwaves across the stadium, especially with his family watching from the stands. Although the severity of the injury is still being assessed, the club has confirmed that Messi will miss several upcoming matches. The exact duration of his absence is yet to be determined, leaving fans uncertain and concerned about his return timeline. However, despite losing their most influential player early in the game, Inter Miami rallied together and delivered an emphatic 3-1 win over Mexican giants Pumas to advance to the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup.
By laradecruzabout a year ago in Cleats
Beyond the Field: What Football Teaches Us About Grit, Glory, and Grace
Introduction Football is more than just a sport. For millions of people around the world, it is a passion, a way of life, and a mirror reflecting the challenges and triumphs of the human experience. While fans see the physical action on the field — the tackles, the touchdowns, the victories — there is a deeper story woven into every game. It is a story of grit, glory, and grace.
By Idea hiveabout a year ago in Cleats
Why Can't Arsenal Sell?
There's a lot to commend about the way Arsenal handle their business behind the scene. They've boasted using a self-sustaining model and have reaped the rewards in a more organic way. Under Arsene Wenger we were known as a club that always needed to sell to buy and quite famously neglected spending anything on transfer fees, baring some deals early on in his Arsenal tenure. Wenger's philosophy was to make a superstar rather than buy them and it worked pretty well for him, he uncovered and polished a number of gems that went onto to have glittering careers.
By Ethan about a year ago in Cleats