A Night of Redemption: Juventus Conquer Camp Nou in a Tale of Two Titans

The stage was set, the stakes monumental. Juventus, having suffered a humbling 2-0 defeat in Turin, arrived at Camp Nou with a daunting task: score at least three goals while maintaining a two-goal margin of victory to claim supremacy in their Champions League group. It was a challenge rarely met at Barcelona’s fortress, a venue synonymous with dreams dashed and hopes extinguished. Yet, on this December night, the improbable unfolded in a clash that promised drama, unpredictability, and the lingering aura of two footballing titans—Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Contrasting Fortunes, Colliding Legacies

Both teams entered the contest under a cloud of inconsistency. Barcelona, languishing in ninth place in La Liga and reeling from a shock defeat to Cadiz, bore the scars of a tumultuous season. Juventus, meanwhile, oscillated between flashes of brilliance and moments of mediocrity, a side yet to find its rhythm under Andrea Pirlo’s stewardship. Yet, the narrative transcended form and tactics—it was about Messi versus Ronaldo, perhaps for the last time on this grand stage. The rivalry, once a defining feature of modern football, had lost some of its youthful vigor but retained an enduring allure.

The Opening Salvo: Ronaldo Strikes First

Juventus began with purpose, pressing high and denying Barcelona the space to settle. The breakthrough came in the 13th minute, a moment as contentious as it was decisive. Ronaldo, receiving a long ball from Juan Cuadrado, drove into the penalty area, only to be impeded by Ronald Araújo. Referee Tobias Stieler pointed to the spot, and though replays revealed the challenge was clumsy rather than malicious, the decision stood. Ronaldo, ever the consummate showman, dispatched the penalty with unerring precision, sending Marc-André ter Stegen the wrong way. Juventus led, and the mountain they had to climb suddenly seemed less insurmountable.

A Goal for the Ages: McKennie’s Moment of Brilliance

The Bianconeri’s relentless pressure bore fruit again just seven minutes later. A throw-in led to a fluid sequence involving Aaron Ramsey, Weston McKennie, and Cuadrado. The Colombian’s pinpoint cross found McKennie unmarked in the box. What followed was pure artistry: a flying scissor-kick volley, executed with balletic grace, left ter Stegen rooted as the ball rippled the net. Juventus were now 2-0 up, the tiebreaker firmly in their grasp.

Messi’s Resistance and Buffon’s Defiance

Barcelona, stung by the early onslaught, sought refuge in their talisman. Messi, the lone beacon in a faltering side, tested Gianluigi Buffon repeatedly with long-range efforts and darting runs. The veteran goalkeeper, however, was equal to the challenge, his saves reminiscent of his prime. As the first half drew to a close, Barcelona’s possession-heavy approach yielded little, their attacks thwarted by a Juventus defence marshalled with discipline and grit.

The Turning Point: Another Penalty, Another Ronaldo Strike

The second half began with controversy. A cross from Cuadrado, intended for Ronaldo, struck Clément Lenglet’s hand in the box. The ensuing VAR review confirmed the infraction, and Ronaldo once again stepped up to the spot. This time, he sent ter Stegen the wrong way with a clinical strike to the left, completing his brace and cementing Juventus’s dominance. The scoreline read 3-0, and Barcelona’s hopes of topping the group lay in ruins.

Desperation and Denial

Ronald Koeman’s attempts to spark a revival proved futile. Substitutions reshuffled the deck but failed to change the game’s trajectory. Antoine Griezmann grazed the crossbar, and Messi’s interplay with Frenkie de Jong briefly threatened to breach Juventus’s defence, but Buffon remained impenetrable. Even a late penalty awarded to Barcelona was overturned due to an offside in the buildup, encapsulating their night of frustration.

A Triumph of Resolve and Strategy

As the final whistle blew, Juventus erupted in celebration. Their performance, a masterclass in tactical execution and mental fortitude, secured not only victory but also a statement: they could still compete with Europe’s elite. For Ronaldo, it was a night of vindication, his goals eclipsing Messi’s valiant but ultimately futile efforts. For Messi, it was another chapter in a season of discontent, his brilliance unable to mask the deficiencies of a faltering Barcelona.

A Legacy Revisited, a Rivalry Rekindled

This encounter may well be remembered as the swan song of one of football’s greatest rivalries. Ronaldo and Messi, two players who have defined an era, once again shared the stage, their contrasting styles and indomitable will illuminating the game. In the end, it was Ronaldo who emerged triumphant, his clinical precision and unyielding drive tipping the scales in Juventus’s favour.

For Juventus, this was more than a victory—it was a testament to their resilience and a reminder of their pedigree. For Barcelona, it was a sobering reflection of their decline, a night when the ghosts of past glories haunted the hallowed grounds of Camp Nou. And for football fans, it was a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of greatness, a moment to cherish in the twilight of two extraordinary careers.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

El Calsico: Real Madrid Were The better Side at Camp Nou

 The last goalless El Clásico before last night’s encounter dates back to November 23, 2002, at the very same venue: Camp Nou. Despite the absence of goals, that clash remains etched in history as one of the most ill-tempered encounters in the storied rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The animosity of that night reached its peak when Luis Figo, who had controversially crossed the divide between the eternal rivals in 2000, faced the wrath of the Camp Nou faithful. Figo’s return was marked by vitriol, but his second visit became infamous. Every corner kick he took was accompanied by a hailstorm of objects—lighters, coins, a bottle of whiskey, and even a severed pig’s head. The atmosphere was incendiary, a reflection of the deep-seated enmity between the clubs and their supporters. Amid this chaos, the match ended in a stalemate, yet its legacy endures as a fiery chapter in El Clásico lore.

Fast forward 6,235 days, and the rivalry has transformed, passing through the hands of successive generations of footballing icons. For over a decade, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo embodied the essence of El Clásico, elevating it to a global spectacle. Their departure from the fixture—Ronaldo to Juventus in 2018 and Messi to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021—might have dimmed its star power, but the intensity remains unshaken.

Last night’s encounter, postponed from October 26 due to civil unrest in Catalonia, unfolded under extraordinary circumstances. Both teams shared a hotel before travelling together to Camp Nou, a rare scene dictated by heightened security concerns. Outside the stadium, thousands of Catalan independence protesters gathered their presence a stark reminder of the political tensions that have gripped the region. The game itself was briefly interrupted in the second half when yellow balls rained onto the pitch, symbolizing the protesters’ message. Meanwhile, clashes between police and demonstrators erupted outside, resulting in injuries and fires in the streets.

Inside the stadium, however, the game proceeded without major incidents. While Barcelona’s dominance at Camp Nou in recent years set expectations, it was Real Madrid who emerged as the more cohesive and determined unit. Zinedine Zidane’s tactical approach emphasized compactness and discipline, with a diamond-shaped midfield led by Isco, flanked by the experienced Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, and Casemiro. This strategy paid dividends, as Real Madrid controlled the tempo and created more significant opportunities.

Gareth Bale came close to breaking the deadlock, his effort finding the net before being ruled offside. Isco’s link-up play with Karim Benzema and Bale repeatedly stretched Barcelona’s defensive lines, isolating Frenkie de Jong and exploiting gaps in the host’s midfield. Despite their superior organization and creativity, Real Madrid’s inability to finish chances remained their Achilles’ heel.

At the heart of Real’s success was Casemiro, who delivered a masterclass in defensive midfield play. His ability to read the game and neutralize threats was pivotal, particularly in containing Lionel Messi. Every time Messi found space, Casemiro was there to close it down, cutting off Barcelona’s primary creative outlet. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between shielding the backline and supporting the attack, a dynamic presence that underscored his importance to Zidane’s system.

Casemiro’s efforts extended beyond Messi. Luis Suárez and Frenkie de Jong found themselves stifled by his relentless interventions. Even when faced with disciplinary consequences—a yellow card for a crucial tackle on Suárez that rules him out of the next match—Casemiro’s timing and composure were impeccable, preventing what could have been a game-changing moment for Barcelona.

While the match ended goalless, Real Madrid’s performance was far from lacking. Zidane’s tactical acumen, coupled with the team’s disciplined execution, showcased a side capable of dominating one of the most challenging venues in world football. For Barcelona, the result highlighted vulnerabilities in their structure and reliance on individual brilliance, a stark contrast to the cohesive unit fielded by their eternal rivals.

In the end, the latest chapter of El Clásico reaffirmed the enduring allure of this fixture. It is not merely a contest of goals but a battle of wills, tactics, and narratives that transcend the game itself. Each clash - is a reflection of its era—its players, its context, and its stakes. As the dust settles on another edition of this storied rivalry, the world’s attention shifts to the next meeting, where the stakes will undoubtedly be as high, and the drama just as compelling.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

The Ballon d’Or Debate: A Question of Merit and Prestige

The Ballon d’Or, conceived by the visionary Gabriel Hanot and awarded by *France Football*, has long been regarded as one of football’s most prestigious honours. Since its inception in 1956, the award has evolved, expanding its eligibility criteria from European players to all players in European clubs in 1995, and eventually to global recognition in 2007. While its illustrious history and rigorous voting process—now involving journalists, national team coaches, and captains—have cemented its reputation, the 2019 award sparked controversy, casting a shadow on its credibility. 

A Legacy of Excellence 

The Ballon d’Or is more than just an accolade; it is a symbol of excellence, awarded to players who define footballing greatness in a given season. Over the decades, it has celebrated legends who have delivered when it mattered most—on both club and international stages. Yet, as with any award, its history is not without contention. The 2019 Ballon d’Or, awarded to Lionel Messi, reignited debates about fairness and the criteria for selecting the best player in the world. 

The Case Against Lionel Messi 

Lionel Messi, often hailed as one of the greatest players of all time, undoubtedly possesses an unparalleled skill set. His ability to mesmerize with the ball at his feet and his knack for producing moments of magic are unmatched. However, the Ballon d’Or is awarded for a specific season’s performance, and Messi’s 2018–19 campaign fell short of the standards typically associated with this honour. 

Club Performance: A Season of Contradictions 

At the club level, Messi’s Barcelona won La Liga, but their season was marred by a catastrophic collapse in the UEFA Champions League. After a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory against Liverpool in the semifinals, Barcelona capitulated at Anfield, losing 4-0 in one of the most shocking comebacks in football history. Messi, despite his brilliance in the earlier stages, failed to inspire his team when it mattered most. 

Critics argue that Messi’s success in La Liga alone does not justify the award. The Champions League, widely regarded as the pinnacle of club football, saw him falter under pressure. Since Neymar’s departure, Messi has struggled to replicate the European dominance Barcelona once enjoyed, raising questions about his ability to lead the team in the post-Xavi and Iniesta era. 

International Performance: A Familiar Struggle 

In the national colours of Argentina, Messi’s woes continued. The 2019 Copa América was another missed opportunity. Argentina’s campaign ended in disappointment, with Messi receiving a red card in the third-place play-off against Chile. His post-match comments blaming officials for Argentina’s failure did little to endear him to neutrals, especially given the country’s controversial footballing history. 

The Overlooked Contenders 

Virgil van Dijk: The Defensive Maestro 

Virgil van Dijk’s 2018–19 season was nothing short of extraordinary. The Dutch defender was the cornerstone of Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League triumph, leading a backline that conceded just 22 goals in the Premier League. His unmatched defensive prowess saw him go an entire season without being dribbled past, a feat that underscored his dominance. 

Van Dijk’s contributions extended beyond defence; he provided crucial goals and assists, stepping up in key moments for both club and country. As the runner-up in the UEFA Nations League with the Netherlands, Van Dijk demonstrated his ability to shine on the international stage. Many argue that his all-encompassing impact deserved the Ballon d’Or, making him the most deserving defender since Fabio Cannavaro in 2006. 

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Eternal Competitor 

Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s perennial rival, also had a compelling case. Leading Juventus to the Serie A title and Portugal to the inaugural UEFA Nations League crown, Ronaldo showcased his enduring ability to deliver at the highest level. His goal-scoring exploits, both domestically and internationally, surpassed Messi’s, with 49 goals in 2019 compared to Messi’s 45. 

Alisson Becker: The Guardian of Glory 

Alisson Becker’s role in Liverpool’s success cannot be overstated. As the winner of the Champions League, Copa América, and multiple individual awards for goalkeeping, Alisson was the backbone of every team he represented. Yet, like many goalkeepers before him, his contributions were undervalued in the Ballon d’Or voting—a recurring theme that has seen legends like Manuel Neuer and Iker Casillas overlooked in the past. 

The Verdict 

The 2019 Ballon d’Or decision has divided the footballing world. While Messi’s brilliance is undeniable, his performances in the 2018–19 season did not align with the award’s criteria. The snub of Van Dijk, Ronaldo, and Alisson raises questions about the voting process and the weight given to individual versus team achievements. 

The Ballon d’Or’s prestige lies in its ability to honour the best performer of the year, but when the award appears to prioritize reputation over results, its credibility suffers. Football fans, especially neutrals, expect fairness and consistency. For many, the 2019 Ballon d’Or was a missed opportunity to celebrate the true standout performers of the season. 

In the end, the Ballon d’Or remains a symbol of excellence, but its legacy depends on the integrity of its decisions. As football evolves, so too must the criteria and transparency of its most coveted awards.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Pale Brazil: A Night to Forget in Riyadh

 

The Super Clásico at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh was expected to be a showcase of footballing brilliance, a stage for Brazil to reaffirm their superiority over arch-rivals Argentina. Instead, it became a night of frustration for the Selecão faithful. Lionel Messi, with his characteristic poise and brilliance, lifted the Super Clásico Trophy, leaving Brazil to grapple with one of their most disjointed performances under Tite’s tenure. 

For Brazil fans, the sting of this defeat lies not merely in the loss but in the manner of it. Brazil’s display against Argentina was bereft of the flair, cohesion, and creativity that have long defined their footballing identity. It was a performance that not only paled in comparison to their storied past but also underscored the growing cracks in Tite’s system—a system that seems increasingly at odds with the ethos of Brazilian football. 

A Year of Diminished Returns

Brazil’s struggles in 2019 have been evident. The signs of decline first appeared during the lackluster draw against Panama in Porto and have since become glaringly obvious. While the Copa América victory on home soil provided a veneer of success, the campaign was far from the sparkling spectacle fans had hoped for. Since lifting the trophy, Brazil have failed to win a single match, a streak unbecoming of a team with their pedigree. 

The decline is not merely in results but in style. Brazil’s performances have lacked the attacking verve and creativity that once made them the most feared team in the world. Against Argentina, these deficiencies were laid bare. 

A Midfield Without Magic

At the heart of Brazil’s struggles is a midfield devoid of inspiration. Tite’s tactical approach, rooted in European pragmatism, emphasizes defensive solidity and counterattacking opportunities. While this approach has its merits, it stifles the natural attacking instincts of Brazilian players. The midfield, once a hub of creativity, now appears static and unimaginative. 

Lucas Paquetá’s deployment as a number 10 was emblematic of this dysfunction. Tasked with orchestrating attacks, Paquetá was instead shackled by defensive responsibilities, a role ill-suited to his abilities. The result was a disjointed midfield that failed to provide service to the forwards or relieve the defensive pressure. 

Arthur and Casemiro, tasked with linking play, fared no better. Casemiro, a stalwart for both club and country, appeared fatigued—a consequence of his relentless workload this season. Tite’s decision to introduce Fabinho in the second half provided little respite, as the Liverpool midfielder was unable to inject the necessary dynamism. 

A more balanced midfield setup, with two pivots and a dedicated attacking midfielder, might offer a solution. Arthur, with his vision and composure, could excel in a more advanced role. However, Tite’s reluctance to adapt his tactics continues to hinder Brazil’s progress. 

The Wing-Back Woes

Brazil’s tradition of producing world-class wing-backs—players who seamlessly blend defensive solidity with attacking flair—seems to have faltered. Danilo and Alex Sandro, the current incumbents, have consistently underwhelmed. Their inability to contribute meaningfully in attack or provide defensive stability has left Brazil vulnerable on the flanks. 

The emergence of Renan Lodi and Emerson offers a glimmer of hope. These young talents possess the attributes needed to reinvigorate Brazil’s wide play, and Tite must place his faith in them. 

A Wasted Opportunity in Attack

Brazil’s attacking lineup, brimming with potential, was another area of concern. The decision to start Willian on the left wing, ahead of the in-form Rodrygo Goes, stifled the team’s rhythm from the outset. Willian’s inability to link up effectively with Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino left Brazil’s attack toothless. 

Rodrygo, fresh off a series of scintillating performances for Real Madrid, deserved a starting role. His pace, creativity, and fearlessness could have provided the spark Brazil so desperately needed. Tite’s insistence on established names over emerging talents is a pattern that must change if Brazil are to rediscover their attacking prowess. 

Alisson: A Lone Bright Spot

Amid the gloom, Alisson Becker stood tall. The Brazilian goalkeeper made a series of heroic saves to keep the scoreline respectable, preventing what could have been an embarrassing rout. His performance was a reminder of the quality that still exists within the squad, even as the collective falters. 

A Call for Change

Brazil’s defeat to Argentina was not an isolated incident but the culmination of a broader decline. Tite’s counterattacking approach, heavily influenced by European football, has been exposed in recent matches against Argentina, Nigeria, and Senegal. It is a philosophy that prioritizes caution over creativity, and discipline over daring—a philosophy that feels alien to the soul of Brazilian football. 

To overcome this lean patch, Brazil must return to their roots. The possession-based, attacking style that once defined Joga Bonito is not merely a nostalgic ideal but a blueprint for success. It is a style that aligns with the natural instincts of Brazilian players and resonates with the fans. 

For Tite, the path forward is clear. He must adapt his tactics, embrace the new generation of talent, and reignite the spark that has long defined Brazil. Anything less risks not only further defeats but also a loss of identity—a fate far worse than any scoreline. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Ronaldo did arrive, but he was not from Brazil

I am sure the generation of 80s and 90s have not forgotten this classic Derby on Valentine's Day in 2004.

A red card for Gary Neville. Manchester United went 2-0 up with just 10-men. Paul Scholes would score. Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored twice and hit the headlines.

But a 19-year old had been at the centre of everything. He dribbled on both the flanks. Ran like a Hare. Provided assists. Won the ball back like a holding midfielder. And he scored the third goal to make it impossible for Manchester City to bounce back.

The high voltage game ended 4-2 and that man Cristiano Ronaldo sent a message, he had set foot in world football to stay with dignity, pide and in some style.

At that point of time, I could realize, Lionel Messi, about whom I came to know via Sports Star Magazine and ESPN sports shows, would certainly, create a lot of hype in the next five years and firmly believed that a Brazilian would outshine him.

But well, it did not happen. Since 2006, no Brazilians lived up to the expectations. Kaka's rise to the top was a short one. Robinho failed. Adriano was lost. And the generation of Neymar could not deliver the way it was expected.

It would be Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese, who would challenge the hype of Messi and reach the top.

A Ronaldo did arrive, but it was not from Brazil.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Reflections on Messi’s Remarks: A Brazil Fan Responds

   

Dear Lionel Messi,

You once said, “We could have gone further but we weren't allowed into the final. Corruption, referees, and all the rest stopped people from enjoying the football.” You even added,“Brazil champions? No doubt. Sadly, I think it’s set up for Brazil.”

With due respect, I’d like to respond to both of your statements.

On Your Team's Performance

Firstly, let’s address your frustration about not reaching the final. Honestly, you were fortunate to even reach the semi-final given the underwhelming nature of your team. You and your squad pale in comparison to the Argentina teams led by legends like Gabriel Batistuta and Juan Román Riquelme. Back then, Brazil fans viewed Argentina with a sense of tension and respect because they were a team—a cohesive, well-rounded unit driven by purpose, not just a platform for individual brilliance.  

But the Argentina side you’ve led in recent years? It lacks the same collective identity. Your performances for the national team have often been criticized as underwhelming compared to your club career. And no, this is not just about bad luck or biased refereeing—sometimes, you need to accept that your side wasn't strong enough.

The Condor Plan and the 1978 World Cup Scandal 

Now, let's talk about corruption—since you brought it up. Have you considered the role Argentina played in the real controversies of the past?  

In the second round of the 1978 World Cup, Argentina, as the host, found itself in a tricky position. Brazil had beaten Poland 3-1 and Peru 3-0, meaning Argentina needed a 4-0 or 5-1 win over Peru to qualify for the final. But beating Peru by such a margin wasn’t realistic—at least, not without outside interference. 

This is where politics came into play. Dictator Jorge Videla, desperate to exploit Argentina’s potential triumph to cover up the atrocities of his regime, struck a deal with Peruvian leader Francisco Bermúdez. Videla offered asylum for 13 Peruvian prisoners, but only if Peru "deliberately lost" to Argentina.  

During the match, even Peru’s goalkeeper—a player of Argentine origin—made no real effort to stop the goals, allowing Argentina to win 6-0 and reach the final. Years later, in 2012, former Peruvian Senator Genaro Ledesma confirmed the existence of this sordid arrangement.  

Was that victory the product of sportsmanship, or political corruption?

The 1978 Pitch and Referee Bias 

You have also complained about the poor pitch conditions during the 2019 Copa América. Do you remember how Argentina treated Brazil in the 1978 World Cup? Brazil was forced to play its matches in Mar del Plata, on a substandard pitch that significantly hampered their gameplay. Brazil struggled to adapt and ended up drawing against Spain in one of those matches.  

And then there’s the 1978 incident involving Sweden, where Zico’s last-minute header was controversially ruled out after the referee ended the match abruptly, claiming time had expired. That decision robbed Brazil of the top spot in their group, forcing them into a tougher path. Was that fair? Or was it another example of Argentina manipulating events to its advantage?

FIFA and Your Group Stage "Luck"

Now, let’s address your insinuation about Brazil’s supposed “set-up” to win the Copa América. If we examine FIFA’s treatment of Argentina from 2010 to 2018, we see a pattern that raises questions. Argentina was placed in relatively favourable groups across three consecutive World Cups, always facing Nigeria. In both 2010 and 2014, your team had an easy path out of the group stage.  

But luck can only take you so far. In 2010, an overconfident Argentina underestimated a young German side and was humiliated 4-0. And in 2014, despite an easy route to the final, you were left hoping Germany would go easy on you. The Germans, as always, didn’t oblige.  

In 2018, Argentina was placed in a group with Croatia, Nigeria, and Iceland—hardly the strongest opposition. Yet, your team struggled, finishing second in the group. The French wasted no time in showing Argentina its limitations in the knockout stage.  

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo was consistently placed in tougher groups and faced greater challenges throughout these tournaments. Brazil, too, has suffered from controversial refereeing decisions—particularly at the 2018 World Cup and on home soil in 2014.  

Selective Memories and Double Standards

If we dig deeper, we could bring up several infamous incidents involving Argentina that cast doubt on your claim of unfair treatment.  

Hand of God: Diego Maradona's blatant handball against England in 1986 remains one of football’s most infamous moments.

The Holy Water Scandal: Argentine staff allegedly gave Brazilian players sedative-laced water during a Copa América match in 1990.  

Italia 1990: Maradona got away with a blatant handball inside his own penalty area against the Soviet Union. 

 

World Cup 1998: Diego Simeone’s theatrics led to David Beckham’s red card, changing the course of England’s campaign.  

2019 vs. Liverpool: Even you, Leo, were accused of placing the ball several meters ahead of the correct spot while taking a decisive free-kick at Camp Nou.

These incidents highlight that Argentina has benefited from questionable decisions on numerous occasions. To now complain about bias or corruption seems hypocritical at best.

In Conclusion: Think Before You Speak

Football, like life, is full of highs and lows. Every team experiences moments of triumph and injustice. But to claim that corruption robbed Argentina in recent tournaments without any concrete evidence is to ignore the privileges and benefits your team has enjoyed throughout history.  

Brazil has endured its share of setbacks and questionable decisions, but we’ve rarely resorted to making excuses. Instead, we’ve focused on rebuilding and striving to be better. You, Leo, are an exceptional player—but it’s time to acknowledge that even legends don’t always win.  

So, next time you feel the urge to point fingers, remember the past. Before accusing others, reflect on the privileges and questionable incidents that have benefited Argentina. And perhaps—just perhaps—you’ll find it wiser to let your football do the talking.

With respect and a love for the beautiful game,  

A Brazil Fan

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Franck Ribéry and the Stolen Crown: Why the French Maestro Deserved the Ballon d’Or

The 2013 Ballon d’Or will forever remain one of football’s most contested decisions—a moment where collective achievement bowed before individual spectacle. At the heart of that debate stood Franck Ribéry, the mercurial French winger who orchestrated Bayern Munich’s most glorious season in living memory. While Cristiano Ronaldo ultimately lifted the trophy, the moral and footballing argument belonged—many still insist—to Ribéry.

The Architect of a Historic Treble

Football’s highest individual honour is meant to crown the player who defined the year. In 2013, that definition was simple: domination in both performance and success, embodied by Bayern Munich’s breathtaking treble. Ribéry was not merely part of that machine—he was its spark, its creative conscience, its aesthetic pulse.

Every movement of Bayern’s symphonic attack bore Ribéry’s signature—his instinctive dribbles, his vision threading impossible passes, his relentless work rate. He assisted Arjen Robben’s decisive goal in the Champions League final, scored in the UEFA Super Cup, and illuminated every stage of Europe’s grand theatre. Bayern didn’t just win—they conquered, with Ribéry their brightest star.

The Measure of Greatness: Trophies and Impact

In an age increasingly obsessed with statistics, Ribéry’s brilliance was measured not in numbers but in influence. His game was a masterclass in artistry and intent—a reminder that football’s beauty lies in orchestration as much as execution. He was crowned UEFA’s Best Player in Europe for 2012–13, an award grounded in merit, not marketing.

While Ronaldo’s 66 goals were extraordinary, they could not disguise Real Madrid’s barren season. Messi, though sublime, was injured and overshadowed. Ribéry, by contrast, lifted every major club trophy available—the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Champions League—alongside both UEFA and FIFA Club World Cups. If football rewards the best player on the best team, there should have been no contest.

A Question of Fairness: The Ballon d’Or Controversy

Yet, the 2013 Ballon d’Or was tainted by procedural shadows. Originally, the voting was to close on November 15. Then, inexplicably, FIFA extended the deadline by two weeks—the first such instance in the award’s history—citing insufficient votes. In that brief window, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a dramatic hat-trick to send Portugal to the World Cup. The timing, critics argued, was too convenient; even UEFA president Michel Platini quipped that FIFA had done it “to please Ronaldo.”

After the ceremony, murmurs turned into accusations. Coaches from several nations—including Albania, Kuwait, and Fiji—alleged their votes were misrepresented. Some claimed fraud; others disbelief. Whether or not the results were manipulated, the damage was done: the legitimacy of football’s highest individual honour stood in question.

The Legacy of a Forgotten Winner

Ribéry finished third that year, behind Messi and Ronaldo. Yet history, viewed without bias, may judge differently. He represented football in its purest form—team before self, creation before glory. His performances were poetry in motion: dynamic, disciplined, devastating.

The 2013 Ballon d’Or should have been a coronation of that ideal—a triumph of artistry and collective greatness over celebrity and metrics. Instead, it became a parable of what modern football too often forgets: that the game’s greatest beauty lies not in who scores most, but in who makes victory inevitable.

Conclusion: The Ballon d’Or That Should Have Been

Franck Ribéry may never hold the golden sphere that eluded him, but he holds something more enduring—the respect of purists who understand football as both art and craft. His 2013 season remains a monument to the collective ideal, where brilliance served the team, not the ego. In that sense, he was the true winner of the Ballon d’Or, even without the trophy.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Why Lionel Messi Didn’t Deserve the 2012 Ballon d’Or

Lionel Messi made history on January 7, 2013, when he claimed his fourth consecutive Ballon d’Or, surpassing Michel Platini’s record. Finishing ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo and Andrés Iniesta, Messi was once again crowned the world’s best player.

Yet, despite his brilliance, many argue that this was the wrong decision—and even Messi himself admitted the award should have gone to his Barcelona teammate Andrés Iniesta.

A Year Without Major Success

The Ballon d’Or is meant to honor the best performer of the year, not merely the most famous. In 2012, Messi dazzled statistically, breaking Gerd Müller’s long-standing record for most goals in a calendar year. But football is not just about numbers—it’s about impact, trophies, and context.

Barcelona failed to win either La Liga or the Champions League, the two competitions that define greatness at club level. Their silverware came from the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup, trophies of lesser prestige for a team of Barca’s stature. For a player whose genius depends on collective success, this was not a season that warranted the ultimate individual honor.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Case: A Season of Team Triumphs

While Messi set records, Cristiano Ronaldo led Real Madrid to an extraordinary La Liga title. Madrid shattered league records—most points, most goals, and most wins in a single season.

Ronaldo wasn’t just breaking personal milestones; he was driving his team to historic collective success. Given that football is a team game, rewarding Messi over Ronaldo, who achieved more with his side, raises legitimate questions about the criteria used for the award.

Overlooking the True Architect: Andrés Iniesta

Perhaps the biggest injustice of all lies with Andrés Iniesta, the heartbeat of both Barcelona and Spain’s golden generation. Iniesta was UEFA’s Best Player in Europe and Player of the Tournament at Euro 2012, where Spain claimed their third consecutive major international title—an unprecedented feat in football history.

Iniesta’s influence extended far beyond statistics. He dictated tempo, created rhythm, and delivered on the grandest stages, earning three man-of-the-match awards during the Euros, including in the final. Yet, he finished third in the Ballon d’Or voting—behind two players whose teams failed to capture comparable glory.

When Messi himself publicly admitted that Iniesta deserved the award, it only reinforced the sense that the wrong man won.

The Historical Perspective: Awards Should Reflect Collective Context

Throughout football history, the Ballon d’Or has often recognized players who achieved greatness within winning teams.

Legends like Zinedine Zidane, Franz Beckenbauer, Fabio Cannavaro, and Ronaldo Nazário were rewarded not only for individual brilliance but for leading their nations or clubs to triumph.

By contrast, Messi’s 2012 award broke from that tradition. Gerd Müller, whose record Messi surpassed, did not win the Ballon d’Or in the season he set his scoring milestone. Instead, it went to Beckenbauer, captain of the European Championship–winning West Germany. Greatness, it seems, had always been measured by impact on victories, not by numbers alone.

Spain’s Golden Era Deserved Recognition

Spain’s dominance from 2008 to 2012 reshaped world football. The national team’s success—three consecutive major trophies (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, Euro 2012)—owed much to the creative brilliance of players like Xavi and Iniesta.

Yet, neither of them ever lifted the Ballon d’Or, as Messi collected four in succession. The imbalance highlights how media attention and narrative often overshadowed the true architects of the game’s evolution.

Conclusion: The Right Player, the Wrong Year

No one denies Messi’s extraordinary talent or his historical significance. But the Ballon d’Or is an annual award, not a lifetime achievement trophy.

In 2012, the rightful winner should have been Andrés Iniesta, whose artistry and achievements on both club and international levels defined football’s highest ideals that year.

Messi’s fourth consecutive triumph cemented his legend—but it also revealed the growing disconnect between performance and perception, and the unfortunate tendency to reward celebrity over context.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar