Sporting CP vs FC Porto

Sporting CP

2 (5) - (4) 0PEN…

FC Porto

Overview Lineups Statistics Standings Events

Players

Competition

Venue: Estádio José Alvalade (Lisboa)
Round: Semi-finals

Insights

No prediction, odds, or comparable team statistics are available for this fixture yet. When Sportra has model probabilities and market prices, they will appear here as interactive charts.

Insights

Team form & competition

Sporting CP SPO

Sporting CP

Home

LWLWW

5-0-2W-D-L
14/6Goals F/A

Sporting CP have played 7 matches in Taça de Portugal (5W, 0D, 2L), scoring 14 and conceding 6.

Best wins: 4-0 / 2-4
Worst defeats: 2-1

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FC Porto POR

FC Porto

Away

LWWWW

5-0-1W-D-L
16/4Goals F/A

FC Porto have played 6 matches in Taça de Portugal (5W, 0D, 1L), scoring 16 and conceding 4.

Best wins: 4-0 / 0-6
Worst defeats: 1-0

Previous match

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Next match

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Head to head

4Sporting CPwins

5Drawsmatches

8FC Portowins

Recorded meetings: 17 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).

Highest scoring: FC Porto 3–2 Sporting CP
Sporting CP most goals: FC Porto 1–3 Sporting CP
FC Porto most goals: FC Porto 3–0 Sporting CP

Recent meetings

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Match headlines

Kily Gonzalez becomes third former Lionel Messi teammate to coach him after Inter Miami appointment

worldsoccertalk.com · …

After being appointed as new Inter Miami coach, Cristian "Kily" Gonzalez will become the third person to coach Lionel Messi after sharing the pitch as a teammate. Lionel Messi is set for his third managerial change at Inter Miami as Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez steps into the head coaching role to succeed Guillermo Hoyos. With his arrival in South Florida, Gonzalez becomes just the third person in soccer history to have played alongside Messi before taking charge of him as a manager. On Thursday, August 27, Inter Miami announced in an official club statement that an agreement was reached to appoint Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez as the club’s new first-team head coach. While contract duration details remain undisclosed, the former Argentina international will assume his duties on the touchline once work authorization is finalized. A former international teammate, Gonzalez joins an exclusive fraternity of figures who shared the pitch with Messi before guiding him from the dugout. He joins a list that was first established by Lionel Scaloni taking over the Argentina national team, followed by Javier Mascherano during his recent managerial stint with Inter Miami. The most prominent name on the list is Mascherano, who ranks fifth all-time in matches played alongside Messi with 414 shared appearances. The defender and forward partnered extensively for Argentina’s senior team, claimed Olympic gold together at the 2008 Beijing Games, and anchored FC Barcelona’s dominant era before reuniting when Mascherano assumed Inter Miami’s head coaching position in 2025. Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano and Luis Suarez of Barcelona celebrate with the UEFA Champions League trophy. (Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) Scaloni initiated this trend when he took charge of the Argentina national team in 2018, eventual helping Messi capture his first major international trophies with the Albiceleste. Prior to his managerial tenure, Scaloni shared the pitch with Messi during the forward’s infamously brief 2005 international debut against Hungary, a 2006 friendly against Angola, and their final match together against Mexico at the 2006 World Cup. Finally, Kily Gonzalez shared the field with Messi while representing Argentina during 2005 World Cup qualifying, featuring alongside the young prodigy in a 2-0 win over Peru and a 1-0 loss to Uruguay, which marked Gonzalez’s final international match. While former teammates like Pablo Aimar, Walter Samuel, and Roberto Ayala have coached Messi as assistants in Argentina, the list of head coaches remains exclusive to Scaloni, Mascherano, and now Gonzalez. Messi’s performance being coached by former teammates Playing for managers who were once peers on the field highlights Messi’s remarkable career longevity, while creating a unique dynamic in the locker room. Nevertheless, the Argentine forward has consistently produced staggering individual output under former teammates, establishing high expectations for Gonzalez’s tenure in Miami. Under Scaloni’s stewardship with Argentina, Messi featured in 79 international matches, generating 60 goals and 26 assists. Beyond the individual numbers, that partnership yielded historic silver, with Messi finally capturing his maiden major international trophies, including the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 FIFA World Cup, and 2024 Copa America. Mascherano assumed management of Inter Miami ahead of the 2025 campaign following Gerardo Martino’s departure, concluding his stint in April 2026. Across 57 matches under Mascherano’s direction, Messi delivered 51 goals and 25 assists for the Herons, a stretch highlighted by the franchise capturing its first MLS Cup in late 2025.

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Sporting Lisbon vs Nacional - prediction, team news, lineups

sportsmole.co.uk · …

Sports Mole previews Saturday's Primeira Liga clash between Sporting Lisbon and Nacional, including predictions, team news and possible lineups.

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr future could reportedly hinge on financial oversight issues

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Al Nassr, both as a player and as a club shareholder, could reportedly hinge on how the club resolves its ongoing financial oversight crisis. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s long-term future at Al Nassr, whether as a player or in an administrative capacity, could reportedly be in doubt if the club’s ongoing financial oversight issues aren’t resolved, according to Saad Al-Sabaie, a former legal department manager at Al Nassr and sports law specialist. The financial oversight issue isn’t new — Al Nassr have spent much of the summer working to secure approval from Saudi authorities just to reinforce the squad. But Al-Sabaie’s comments suggest the situation carries broader implications than just transfer activity, extending to how the club manages its existing commitments, including Ronaldo’s own contract and equity stake. Under restrictions imposed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Al Nassr have been barred from registering new signings until they can demonstrate sufficient funds through sponsorships or other revenue streams. One more shift, then we fly ✈️💛 pic.twitter.com/Z3LqZELUWm— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 3, 2026 The Saudi Pro League’s Financial Control Committee has already refused to approve contract renewals for 18 youth players, while renewals for first-team figures like Abdulrahman Ghareeb and goalkeeper Raghed Al-Najjar have also reportedly faced delays. Ronaldo’s ownership stake in the club Ronaldo’s situation adds another layer to the club’s financial complexity. Beyond his playing contract, which runs through 2027, the Portuguese forward holds an ownership stake of around 15% to 20% in Al Nassr following a deal struck alongside his last contract extension in June 2025. With the PIF reportedly exploring the sale of a majority stake in the club to new investors as part of the broader restructuring, how that process plays out could shape not just Ronaldo’s future on the pitch, but his role in the club’s ownership structure going forward.

↗

How much? Richard Hughes cost Liverpool €99m this summer

sports.yahoo.com · …

While much of the transfer window focus centres on incomings, getting sales right is just as important if you're to be a successful football team.Richard Hughes, now the ex Sporting Director of Liverp...

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland prepare for their first historic encounter: Has Lionel Messi ever faced the Norwegian star?

worldsoccertalk.com · …

As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming match between these giants, fans are left wondering: has Lionel Messi ever faced the Norway international? Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland are two of the most prolific goalscorers in modern soccer, yet they have never faced one another for any club or national team. For years, Ronaldo has been the standard-bearer for Portugal, while Haaland has become Norway’s most feared finisher as their careers have run in parallel, but never in the same match. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming match between these giants, fans are left wondering: has Lionel Messi ever played against the Norway international? This highly anticipated duel will pit Ronaldo’s remarkable longevity against the explosive power of Haaland. Throughout his illustrious career, the Portuguese forward has showcased his talents at every major European destination he joined. Meanwhile, the Norwegian striker has bullied defenders across the continent with his incredible physical strength and ruthless finishing. The long wait for this monumental encounter will finally end on Sunday, September 27, 2026. The match will take place at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, where the home squad will host the Portuguese roster in a crucial Nations League fixture. A subsequent return meeting is already scheduled for October 4 in Porto, giving fans another chance to witness the spectacle. The Portuguese maestro and the Norwegian sensation have each carved out remarkable careers on the club and international stages. The former has spent years at the pinnacle of European soccer with clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr, while the latter’s meteoric rise has seen him shine at Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City. Despite their prominence, they have surprisingly never played against each other in a competitive fixture. Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Erling Haaland (right) Their paths have also not crossed on the international stage. Portugal and Norway have met multiple times, but these encounters occurred before Haaland established himself as a senior international star in 2019. This absence of face-to-face competition is even more notable considering how often their names are compared due to their goalscoring prowess and attacking brilliance. Have Messi and Haaland ever crossed paths? With the spotlight shining on this unprecedented European clash, observers naturally wonder about the Argentine legend’s history with the Norwegian powerhouse. In fact, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland have also never played against each other in an official match. Their paths completely bypassed one another during their respective domestic and continental campaigns. During the height of his European career, the Argentine maestro was securing trophies with his beloved Spanish employers, Barcelona. At the same time, the young Norwegian phenom was busy making a name for himself in Germany and England. The draw for the UEFA Champions League never paired their respective squads together on the pitch. The situation at the international level mirrors their missed connections in domestic leagues. The South American champions Argentina simply never scheduled any friendly or competitive fixtures against the Scandinavian squad during their overlapping active years. As a result, a direct head-to-head battle between these global icons remained entirely elusive. Lionel Messi of Argentina and Erling Haaland of Norway. Furthermore, any hope of an international clash between the Argentine and the Norwegian was recently extinguished. Messi recently announced his retirement from international action, ending an illustrious La Albiceleste career with a record 207 caps and 125 goals. His achievements include winning the 2022 World Cup, but now the possibility of future encounters with Haaland in international tournaments is gone. Could they still meet in the future? Since Messi now plays for Inter Miami in MLS and Haaland remains at Manchester City, their c

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr journey gets personal as boss Ange Postecoglou reveals why he wanted the job

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Postecoglou has now opened up about what attracted him to Riyadh, offering a surprisingly personal explanation for why the opportunity appealed to him. Cristiano Ronaldo has become one of the biggest figures in Ange Postecoglou’s new chapter at Al-Nassr, but the Australian manager’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia was shaped by something deeper than soccer ambition alone. Postecoglou has now opened up about what attracted him to Riyadh, offering a surprisingly personal explanation for why the opportunity appealed to him. The 61-year-old arrived at Al-Nassr in July on a two-year contract after Jorge Jesus departed for the Portugal national team. Since then, the Australian has embraced the challenge of working in a rapidly developing league, while also finding himself at the center of Ronaldo’s pursuit of another remarkable career milestone. Postecoglou has built a fascinating managerial career, working across Australia, Japan, Scotland and England before taking charge of Al-Nassr. His European experience included spells with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest, with his time at Tottenham ending shortly after he guided the club to the 2025 Europa League title. His arrival in the Middle East therefore naturally raised questions about why he would choose to leave the European soccer environment. For Postecoglou, though, the decision was never simply about comparing one league with another. Instead, one particular opportunity made the Al-Nassr project especially difficult to resist. First awards of the season, and the boss is already on top 🧠🥇Ange Postecoglou — Coach of the Month for August 👏 pic.twitter.com/QvfQBXCnmM— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 2, 2026 Why Ronaldo played major role in his decision Postecoglou revealed that the chance to become part of Cristiano Ronaldo’s story was one of the attractions of moving to Riyadh. The manager views his career partly through the relationships he has built with extraordinary players, and Ronaldo represents perhaps the biggest name on that list. Speaking on The Howie Games podcast, Postecoglou said: “When I reflect on my career, what stands out for me is that I’ve been unbelievably blessed in being part of other people’s journeys.” He recalled working with legendary figures throughout his career, including Ferenc Puskás, Australian icon Tim Cahill and Son Heung-min. Postecoglou explained: “So, there’s no doubt, Cristiano Ronaldo’s here, you kind of go, I can become a small part of his story as well.” The Australian stressed that his motivation was not selfish. He added: “Not that they’ll tell my story alongside it, but I can tell that story, and that was a part of it as well.” Will Postecoglou regret decision? The manager also pushed back against the idea that joining the Saudi Pro League represented a backward step. Rather than judging the competition by its location or perceived prestige, Postecoglou said he focused on whether the project offered genuine opportunities. Postecoglou said: “People say ‘it’s not in Europe, it’s not a higher profile league’ but I’ve always railed against people who are snobbish about certain leagues and everything.” He added: “I wasn’t going to turn around and say that’s a backwards step for me. I never see things that way.” Instead, the Australian asked whether he could make an impact and whether the challenge would excite him. He continued: “It ticked those boxes for me because it’s a league that’s obviously invested a lot of money, there’s some top managers here, some top players here. The chance to be a part of that was significant.”

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Cristiano Ronaldo receives glowing verdict from Ange Postecoglou as Al-Nassr boss explains why managing him is ‘easier’ than you think

worldsoccertalk.com · …

The Australian coach has delivered a remarkably positive assessment of his superstar forward, revealing an aspect of Ronaldo that can often be overlooked when the spotlight falls on his enormous reputation. Cristiano Ronaldo has worked with some of soccer’s biggest managers throughout his extraordinary career, but his latest relationship with Ange Postecoglou is already offering an interesting glimpse into life at Al-Nassr. The Australian coach has delivered a remarkably positive assessment of his superstar forward, revealing an aspect of Ronaldo that can often be overlooked when the spotlight falls on his enormous reputation. Postecoglou has made an encouraging start in Riyadh, guiding Al-Nassr through an unbeaten opening to the 2026-27 campaign. His early results were rewarded with the Saudi Pro League Manager of the Month award for August, while the club continues to pursue major domestic and continental ambitions. Al-Nassr is looking to defend its Saudi title while also chasing the elusive AFC Champions League crown. The 41-year-old superstar remains central to those ambitions, particularly as the club attempts to translate its strong domestic form into success on the continental stage. For Postecoglou, having a player of Ronaldo’s stature could appear to present an enormous managerial challenge. The Portuguese forward has won almost everything available during his career, commands huge attention worldwide and is still pursuing extraordinary personal targets well into his 40s. Yet Postecoglou does not appear concerned about managing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. In fact, his experience with elite players has led him to reach almost the opposite conclusion. Why Postecoglou says Ronaldo is easier to manage Speaking about managing elite players, Ange Postecoglou said on the LiSTNR podcast The Howie Games: “I’ve been lucky enough to be around some great players, and they all share the same characteristics, irrespective of the kind of personality.” He continued: “They’re all hugely motivated; they’re all very focused.” That mentality, according to Postecoglou, can actually make the manager’s job simpler because truly exceptional players understand the work required to remain at the top. The Al-Nassr boss explained the distinction by recalling advice from a previous coach: “Sometimes people don’t realize it’s a lot easier dealing with the great players rather than the ones who think they’re great.” Ange Postecoglou spoke about his first meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo, explaining that Ronaldo came over himself to greet him and that they had a wonderful conversation.Postecoglou says Ronaldo remains highly motivated, has clear goals and is now just steps away from reaching…— The Nassr Tribune™️ (@AlNassrTribune) September 3, 2026 That comment provides the clearest explanation for his glowing assessment of Ronaldo. The biggest stars may have enormous personalities, but genuine greatness comes with the discipline and work ethic needed to support it. Postecoglou sees those qualities in Ronaldo, even at this stage of his career. Rather than needing constant motivation from his manager, the Portuguese forward arrives with his own targets and an apparently relentless desire to achieve them. Postecoglou added: “Because the great ones, they put in the hard work. They’re motivated. They do the right things.” For a coach, having that attitude inside the squad can be invaluable, particularly when trying to establish demanding standards across an entire team. The manager also highlighted the psychological benefit of working alongside such a player. He said: “And as a coach, as a manager, you go, ‘I want a piece of that.’” What is driving Ronaldo amid 1,000-goal target? Ronaldo’s motivation is currently being fueled by another milestone that would add yet another extraordinary chapter to his career. The Al-Nassr forward is closing in on 1,000 official career goals, a landmark that would make him the first player to reach the figure. Cristia

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Folarin Balogun 'not comfortable' signing for Everton after medical questions, says Monaco sporting director

cbssports.com · …

The USMNT striker rejected a $52 million move after the Premier League side raised concerns during his medical, leaving both clubs scrambling after deadline day

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Show more news

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Insights

No prediction, odds, or comparable team statistics are available for this fixture yet. When Sportra has model probabilities and market prices, they will appear here as interactive charts.

Match headlines

Kily Gonzalez becomes third former Lionel Messi teammate to coach him after Inter Miami appointment

worldsoccertalk.com · …

After being appointed as new Inter Miami coach, Cristian "Kily" Gonzalez will become the third person to coach Lionel Messi after sharing the pitch as a teammate. Lionel Messi is set for his third managerial change at Inter Miami as Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez steps into the head coaching role to succeed Guillermo Hoyos. With his arrival in South Florida, Gonzalez becomes just the third person in soccer history to have played alongside Messi before taking charge of him as a manager. On Thursday, August 27, Inter Miami announced in an official club statement that an agreement was reached to appoint Cristian “Kily” Gonzalez as the club’s new first-team head coach. While contract duration details remain undisclosed, the former Argentina international will assume his duties on the touchline once work authorization is finalized. A former international teammate, Gonzalez joins an exclusive fraternity of figures who shared the pitch with Messi before guiding him from the dugout. He joins a list that was first established by Lionel Scaloni taking over the Argentina national team, followed by Javier Mascherano during his recent managerial stint with Inter Miami. The most prominent name on the list is Mascherano, who ranks fifth all-time in matches played alongside Messi with 414 shared appearances. The defender and forward partnered extensively for Argentina’s senior team, claimed Olympic gold together at the 2008 Beijing Games, and anchored FC Barcelona’s dominant era before reuniting when Mascherano assumed Inter Miami’s head coaching position in 2025. Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano and Luis Suarez of Barcelona celebrate with the UEFA Champions League trophy. (Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) Scaloni initiated this trend when he took charge of the Argentina national team in 2018, eventual helping Messi capture his first major international trophies with the Albiceleste. Prior to his managerial tenure, Scaloni shared the pitch with Messi during the forward’s infamously brief 2005 international debut against Hungary, a 2006 friendly against Angola, and their final match together against Mexico at the 2006 World Cup. Finally, Kily Gonzalez shared the field with Messi while representing Argentina during 2005 World Cup qualifying, featuring alongside the young prodigy in a 2-0 win over Peru and a 1-0 loss to Uruguay, which marked Gonzalez’s final international match. While former teammates like Pablo Aimar, Walter Samuel, and Roberto Ayala have coached Messi as assistants in Argentina, the list of head coaches remains exclusive to Scaloni, Mascherano, and now Gonzalez. Messi’s performance being coached by former teammates Playing for managers who were once peers on the field highlights Messi’s remarkable career longevity, while creating a unique dynamic in the locker room. Nevertheless, the Argentine forward has consistently produced staggering individual output under former teammates, establishing high expectations for Gonzalez’s tenure in Miami. Under Scaloni’s stewardship with Argentina, Messi featured in 79 international matches, generating 60 goals and 26 assists. Beyond the individual numbers, that partnership yielded historic silver, with Messi finally capturing his maiden major international trophies, including the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 FIFA World Cup, and 2024 Copa America. Mascherano assumed management of Inter Miami ahead of the 2025 campaign following Gerardo Martino’s departure, concluding his stint in April 2026. Across 57 matches under Mascherano’s direction, Messi delivered 51 goals and 25 assists for the Herons, a stretch highlighted by the franchise capturing its first MLS Cup in late 2025.

↗

Sporting Lisbon vs Nacional - prediction, team news, lineups

sportsmole.co.uk · …

Sports Mole previews Saturday's Primeira Liga clash between Sporting Lisbon and Nacional, including predictions, team news and possible lineups.

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr future could reportedly hinge on financial oversight issues

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Cristiano Ronaldo's future at Al Nassr, both as a player and as a club shareholder, could reportedly hinge on how the club resolves its ongoing financial oversight crisis. Cristiano Ronaldo‘s long-term future at Al Nassr, whether as a player or in an administrative capacity, could reportedly be in doubt if the club’s ongoing financial oversight issues aren’t resolved, according to Saad Al-Sabaie, a former legal department manager at Al Nassr and sports law specialist. The financial oversight issue isn’t new — Al Nassr have spent much of the summer working to secure approval from Saudi authorities just to reinforce the squad. But Al-Sabaie’s comments suggest the situation carries broader implications than just transfer activity, extending to how the club manages its existing commitments, including Ronaldo’s own contract and equity stake. Under restrictions imposed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Al Nassr have been barred from registering new signings until they can demonstrate sufficient funds through sponsorships or other revenue streams. One more shift, then we fly ✈️💛 pic.twitter.com/Z3LqZELUWm— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 3, 2026 The Saudi Pro League’s Financial Control Committee has already refused to approve contract renewals for 18 youth players, while renewals for first-team figures like Abdulrahman Ghareeb and goalkeeper Raghed Al-Najjar have also reportedly faced delays. Ronaldo’s ownership stake in the club Ronaldo’s situation adds another layer to the club’s financial complexity. Beyond his playing contract, which runs through 2027, the Portuguese forward holds an ownership stake of around 15% to 20% in Al Nassr following a deal struck alongside his last contract extension in June 2025. With the PIF reportedly exploring the sale of a majority stake in the club to new investors as part of the broader restructuring, how that process plays out could shape not just Ronaldo’s future on the pitch, but his role in the club’s ownership structure going forward.

↗

How much? Richard Hughes cost Liverpool €99m this summer

sports.yahoo.com · …

While much of the transfer window focus centres on incomings, getting sales right is just as important if you're to be a successful football team.Richard Hughes, now the ex Sporting Director of Liverp...

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland prepare for their first historic encounter: Has Lionel Messi ever faced the Norwegian star?

worldsoccertalk.com · …

As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming match between these giants, fans are left wondering: has Lionel Messi ever faced the Norway international? Cristiano Ronaldo and Erling Haaland are two of the most prolific goalscorers in modern soccer, yet they have never faced one another for any club or national team. For years, Ronaldo has been the standard-bearer for Portugal, while Haaland has become Norway’s most feared finisher as their careers have run in parallel, but never in the same match. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming match between these giants, fans are left wondering: has Lionel Messi ever played against the Norway international? This highly anticipated duel will pit Ronaldo’s remarkable longevity against the explosive power of Haaland. Throughout his illustrious career, the Portuguese forward has showcased his talents at every major European destination he joined. Meanwhile, the Norwegian striker has bullied defenders across the continent with his incredible physical strength and ruthless finishing. The long wait for this monumental encounter will finally end on Sunday, September 27, 2026. The match will take place at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, where the home squad will host the Portuguese roster in a crucial Nations League fixture. A subsequent return meeting is already scheduled for October 4 in Porto, giving fans another chance to witness the spectacle. The Portuguese maestro and the Norwegian sensation have each carved out remarkable careers on the club and international stages. The former has spent years at the pinnacle of European soccer with clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Al-Nassr, while the latter’s meteoric rise has seen him shine at Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City. Despite their prominence, they have surprisingly never played against each other in a competitive fixture. Cristiano Ronaldo (left) and Erling Haaland (right) Their paths have also not crossed on the international stage. Portugal and Norway have met multiple times, but these encounters occurred before Haaland established himself as a senior international star in 2019. This absence of face-to-face competition is even more notable considering how often their names are compared due to their goalscoring prowess and attacking brilliance. Have Messi and Haaland ever crossed paths? With the spotlight shining on this unprecedented European clash, observers naturally wonder about the Argentine legend’s history with the Norwegian powerhouse. In fact, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland have also never played against each other in an official match. Their paths completely bypassed one another during their respective domestic and continental campaigns. During the height of his European career, the Argentine maestro was securing trophies with his beloved Spanish employers, Barcelona. At the same time, the young Norwegian phenom was busy making a name for himself in Germany and England. The draw for the UEFA Champions League never paired their respective squads together on the pitch. The situation at the international level mirrors their missed connections in domestic leagues. The South American champions Argentina simply never scheduled any friendly or competitive fixtures against the Scandinavian squad during their overlapping active years. As a result, a direct head-to-head battle between these global icons remained entirely elusive. Lionel Messi of Argentina and Erling Haaland of Norway. Furthermore, any hope of an international clash between the Argentine and the Norwegian was recently extinguished. Messi recently announced his retirement from international action, ending an illustrious La Albiceleste career with a record 207 caps and 125 goals. His achievements include winning the 2022 World Cup, but now the possibility of future encounters with Haaland in international tournaments is gone. Could they still meet in the future? Since Messi now plays for Inter Miami in MLS and Haaland remains at Manchester City, their c

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr journey gets personal as boss Ange Postecoglou reveals why he wanted the job

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Postecoglou has now opened up about what attracted him to Riyadh, offering a surprisingly personal explanation for why the opportunity appealed to him. Cristiano Ronaldo has become one of the biggest figures in Ange Postecoglou’s new chapter at Al-Nassr, but the Australian manager’s decision to move to Saudi Arabia was shaped by something deeper than soccer ambition alone. Postecoglou has now opened up about what attracted him to Riyadh, offering a surprisingly personal explanation for why the opportunity appealed to him. The 61-year-old arrived at Al-Nassr in July on a two-year contract after Jorge Jesus departed for the Portugal national team. Since then, the Australian has embraced the challenge of working in a rapidly developing league, while also finding himself at the center of Ronaldo’s pursuit of another remarkable career milestone. Postecoglou has built a fascinating managerial career, working across Australia, Japan, Scotland and England before taking charge of Al-Nassr. His European experience included spells with Tottenham and Nottingham Forest, with his time at Tottenham ending shortly after he guided the club to the 2025 Europa League title. His arrival in the Middle East therefore naturally raised questions about why he would choose to leave the European soccer environment. For Postecoglou, though, the decision was never simply about comparing one league with another. Instead, one particular opportunity made the Al-Nassr project especially difficult to resist. First awards of the season, and the boss is already on top 🧠🥇Ange Postecoglou — Coach of the Month for August 👏 pic.twitter.com/QvfQBXCnmM— AlNassr FC (@AlNassrFC_EN) September 2, 2026 Why Ronaldo played major role in his decision Postecoglou revealed that the chance to become part of Cristiano Ronaldo’s story was one of the attractions of moving to Riyadh. The manager views his career partly through the relationships he has built with extraordinary players, and Ronaldo represents perhaps the biggest name on that list. Speaking on The Howie Games podcast, Postecoglou said: “When I reflect on my career, what stands out for me is that I’ve been unbelievably blessed in being part of other people’s journeys.” He recalled working with legendary figures throughout his career, including Ferenc Puskás, Australian icon Tim Cahill and Son Heung-min. Postecoglou explained: “So, there’s no doubt, Cristiano Ronaldo’s here, you kind of go, I can become a small part of his story as well.” The Australian stressed that his motivation was not selfish. He added: “Not that they’ll tell my story alongside it, but I can tell that story, and that was a part of it as well.” Will Postecoglou regret decision? The manager also pushed back against the idea that joining the Saudi Pro League represented a backward step. Rather than judging the competition by its location or perceived prestige, Postecoglou said he focused on whether the project offered genuine opportunities. Postecoglou said: “People say ‘it’s not in Europe, it’s not a higher profile league’ but I’ve always railed against people who are snobbish about certain leagues and everything.” He added: “I wasn’t going to turn around and say that’s a backwards step for me. I never see things that way.” Instead, the Australian asked whether he could make an impact and whether the challenge would excite him. He continued: “It ticked those boxes for me because it’s a league that’s obviously invested a lot of money, there’s some top managers here, some top players here. The chance to be a part of that was significant.”

↗

Cristiano Ronaldo receives glowing verdict from Ange Postecoglou as Al-Nassr boss explains why managing him is ‘easier’ than you think

worldsoccertalk.com · …

The Australian coach has delivered a remarkably positive assessment of his superstar forward, revealing an aspect of Ronaldo that can often be overlooked when the spotlight falls on his enormous reputation. Cristiano Ronaldo has worked with some of soccer’s biggest managers throughout his extraordinary career, but his latest relationship with Ange Postecoglou is already offering an interesting glimpse into life at Al-Nassr. The Australian coach has delivered a remarkably positive assessment of his superstar forward, revealing an aspect of Ronaldo that can often be overlooked when the spotlight falls on his enormous reputation. Postecoglou has made an encouraging start in Riyadh, guiding Al-Nassr through an unbeaten opening to the 2026-27 campaign. His early results were rewarded with the Saudi Pro League Manager of the Month award for August, while the club continues to pursue major domestic and continental ambitions. Al-Nassr is looking to defend its Saudi title while also chasing the elusive AFC Champions League crown. The 41-year-old superstar remains central to those ambitions, particularly as the club attempts to translate its strong domestic form into success on the continental stage. For Postecoglou, having a player of Ronaldo’s stature could appear to present an enormous managerial challenge. The Portuguese forward has won almost everything available during his career, commands huge attention worldwide and is still pursuing extraordinary personal targets well into his 40s. Yet Postecoglou does not appear concerned about managing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. In fact, his experience with elite players has led him to reach almost the opposite conclusion. Why Postecoglou says Ronaldo is easier to manage Speaking about managing elite players, Ange Postecoglou said on the LiSTNR podcast The Howie Games: “I’ve been lucky enough to be around some great players, and they all share the same characteristics, irrespective of the kind of personality.” He continued: “They’re all hugely motivated; they’re all very focused.” That mentality, according to Postecoglou, can actually make the manager’s job simpler because truly exceptional players understand the work required to remain at the top. The Al-Nassr boss explained the distinction by recalling advice from a previous coach: “Sometimes people don’t realize it’s a lot easier dealing with the great players rather than the ones who think they’re great.” Ange Postecoglou spoke about his first meeting with Cristiano Ronaldo, explaining that Ronaldo came over himself to greet him and that they had a wonderful conversation.Postecoglou says Ronaldo remains highly motivated, has clear goals and is now just steps away from reaching…— The Nassr Tribune™️ (@AlNassrTribune) September 3, 2026 That comment provides the clearest explanation for his glowing assessment of Ronaldo. The biggest stars may have enormous personalities, but genuine greatness comes with the discipline and work ethic needed to support it. Postecoglou sees those qualities in Ronaldo, even at this stage of his career. Rather than needing constant motivation from his manager, the Portuguese forward arrives with his own targets and an apparently relentless desire to achieve them. Postecoglou added: “Because the great ones, they put in the hard work. They’re motivated. They do the right things.” For a coach, having that attitude inside the squad can be invaluable, particularly when trying to establish demanding standards across an entire team. The manager also highlighted the psychological benefit of working alongside such a player. He said: “And as a coach, as a manager, you go, ‘I want a piece of that.’” What is driving Ronaldo amid 1,000-goal target? Ronaldo’s motivation is currently being fueled by another milestone that would add yet another extraordinary chapter to his career. The Al-Nassr forward is closing in on 1,000 official career goals, a landmark that would make him the first player to reach the figure. Cristia

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Folarin Balogun 'not comfortable' signing for Everton after medical questions, says Monaco sporting director

cbssports.com · …

The USMNT striker rejected a $52 million move after the Premier League side raised concerns during his medical, leaving both clubs scrambling after deadline day

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