French president confirms "advising" Kylian Mbappe before Real Madrid rejection
French president Emmanuel Macron has confirmed he talked to Kylian Mbappe to “advise” him on his future before the striker penned a new contract at Paris Saint-Germain.
Emmanuel Macron Sport News
Macron urges Champions League ticket holders blocked from entering arena to be reimbursed
PARIS : Ticket holders who were blocked from entering Paris's Stade de France for last Saturday's Champions League final by security personnel must be reimbursed "as fast as possible", French President Emmanuel Macron told local media on Friday.
Billie Jean King receives France's highest civilian award
American former world number one Billie Jean King was awarded the Legion of Honour, France's highest civilian award, on Friday.
Real Madrid defend fans, demand answers after chaos at Stade de France
In the statement published "in defence of supporters", Madrid asked why the Stade de France was chosen as the venue for the final against Liverpool and asked "who was responsible for leaving the fans helpless and defenceless."
France investigating Champions League final chaos: UK
France is investigating the chaos at last weekend's Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid, Britain's top diplomat said on Wednesday, as pressure on the French interior minister grew over the police's handling. The mayhem outside the Stade de France stadium ahead of the showpiece event, which saw thousands of Liverpool supporters with tickets struggle to enter and police respond with tear gas, raised questions over the capacity of Paris to host the Olympic Games in 2024. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who has faced accusations of lying after he blamed the chaos on massive ticket scams, admitted that the organisation could "clearly" have been better. British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss held a telephone call with her French counterpart Catherine Colonna and said an investigation had been launched. "I raised concerns at appalling treatment of @liverpoolfc fans in Paris last weekend. I have been assured investigation now launched," she wrote on Twitter on Wednesday evening.
Second-string Wales beaten by Poland in Nations League
WROCLAW, POLAND: Wales warmed up for their decisive World Cup qualifying playoff this weekend by losing 2-1 with a second-string team in Poland in the UEFA Nations League on Wednesday.
Messi stars as Argentina beat Italy in Finalissima
LONDON: Lionel Messi stole the show as Copa America holders Argentina powered to a 3-0 win against European champions Italy in the Finalissima at Wembley on Wednesday. Inspired by the peerless Messi, Argentina raced into a two-goal lead in the first half of the prestigious friendly thanks to strikes from Lautaro Martinez and Angel Di Maria. Paulo Dybala capped Argentina’s rout, but after a disappointing season with Paris Saint-Germain by his sky-high standards, it was the sight of Messi back to his imperious best that took the spotlight. The 34-year-old’s eye-catching display featured two assists and was worthy of his rare appearance at one of football’s great cathedrals. It was another memorable moment for Argentina, who have qualified for this year’s World Cup as they extend the golden afterglow from the victory over Brazil that ended their 28-year wait to win the Copa America in 2021. Argentina were already established as one of the leading contenders to win the World Cup and defeating Italy was another statement of intent from La Albiceleste, who are now unbeaten in 32 matches. If Messi can play at this level in Qatar, Lionel Scaloni’s side will be a force to be reckoned with as they chase a first World Cup title since 1986.