Messi Versus Modric in First Semi-final

Legendary players Lionel Messi and Luka Modric square off in today’s semi-final, which is unquestionably their last opportunity to win the World Cup.

Croatia is aiming for their second straight final as playmaker Messi, 35, of Argentina, faces fellow playmaker Modric, 37.

Messi’s team-mate Nicolas Tagliafico believes seven-time Ballon d’Or winner gives them a “special advantage” after four goals and two assists so far in Qatar.

The Lyon left-back said: “He has always been like this,” said Tagliafico, a left back for Lyon.

“He is our captain and our boss in our eyes. We are pushed and inspired by him.”

Before tomorrow’s semifinal against surprise opponent Morocco, France, the victor over England, experienced two injuries.

Dayot Upamecano and Aurelien Tchouameni did not attend practice, and Kylian Mbappe did not kick a ball.

It comes amid claims that if Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate decides to step down, the FA would be content to consider a foreign coach.

The odds-on favorite to succeed Southgate is ex-Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino, though it’s also been reported that ex-Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is also interested.

Eddie Howe at Newcastle and Graham Potter at Chelsea are two of the best English coaches who are firmly entrenched in their positions.

Image source: nst.com.my

News source: thesun.co.uk