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Neymar’s Claim on Messi’s Penalty Mastery: A Tale of Teamwork at PSG

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In an interview on the Podpah podcast, Neymar recounted how Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, approached him for advice on penalty kicks during their stint together at the French club between 2021 and 2023.

 

According to Neymar, the exchange occurred during a training session at PSG. Messi, curious about Neymar’s distinctive penalty-taking technique, asked, “How do you take penalties like that?” Neymar, amused by the humility of his teammate, responded with disbelief: “Are you crazy? You’re Messi! If I can do it, you can too.”

He then proceeded to guide Messi through the process, encouraging him to practice the skill. Neymar claims this guidance paid off, pointing to Messi’s success in scoring penalties during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina triumphed, and Messi netted crucial spot-kicks, including in the final against France.

This story highlights the dynamic between the two superstars during their time at PSG, where they joined forces alongside Kylian Mbappé to form a formidable attacking trio. Neymar, who had moved to PSG from Barcelona in 2017 for a record-breaking €222 million, was already an established figure at the club when Messi arrived from Barcelona in August 2021. Their prior chemistry from playing together at Barcelona (2013–2017)—where they won a Champions League title and multiple domestic honors—carried over to Paris, fostering a collaborative spirit.

Neymar’s penalty technique, often characterized by a stuttering run-up and a knack for deceiving goalkeepers, contrasts with Messi’s traditionally smoother, placement-focused approach. Posts on various social media platforms from as early as October 2022 noted Messi adapting his style, with some suggesting he had been picking up tips from Neymar in training. While Messi has always been a proficient penalty-taker—boasting an 80% success rate over his career—his World Cup performance, converting 5 out of 6 attempts, showcased a newfound confidence that Neymar playfully credits to their training ground exchange.

However, their time at PSG wasn’t without challenges. Despite their individual brilliance and moments of camaraderie, the trio struggled to deliver the ultimate prize—the UEFA Champions League—falling short in the round of 16 in both seasons they played together. Neymar later reflected on tensions within the team, claiming in a January 2025 podcast with Romário that Mbappé grew “jealous” after Messi’s arrival, disrupting their partnership. Yet, this penalty tale stands out as a positive footnote, illustrating a blend of mutual respect and teamwork amid a high-pressure environment.

Since leaving PSG, Neymar joined Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia in 2023, while Messi moved to Inter Miami in the MLS. Their paths have diverged, but Neymar’s claim offers a glimpse into a moment when two of football’s biggest stars shared a lighthearted lesson in Paris—one that, in Neymar’s view, left a mark on Messi’s penalty mastery and Argentina’s World Cup glory. Whether Messi would corroborate this tale remains untold, but it’s a charming testament to their bond at PSG.

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Arsenal Open Nine-Point Lead Over Man City

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The title run-in looks intense, but this cushion gives the Gunners breathing room. Arsenal fans are dreaming big—could this finally be their year?

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Arsenal have surged to the top of the Premier League table with a commanding nine-point lead over Manchester City following their recent results.

The Gunners secured a solid 2-0 home victory against Everton, with late drama including a breakthrough from substitute Viktor Gyökeres (who tapped in after a cross from young talent Max Dowman, making an impact). This win, combined with Manchester City’s frustrating 1-1 draw away at West Ham United which propelled Arsenal nine(9) points clear at the summit

As of the latest updates (around mid-March 2026 in the 2025/26 season), Arsenal sit on around 70 points (having played one more game), while City are on 61 points (with a game in hand).

PL Table as at March 14
With only about 7 games remaining, supercomputer models (like Opta’s) have Arsenal as overwhelming favorites—often 80-97%+ to lift the trophy. It’s theirs to lose, but the consistency they’ve shown makes this feel like the year the drought ends.

Mikel Arteta has downplayed the lead in past similar situations (like earlier in the season when it hit nine points after a win over Sunderland), saying it means “nothing” and the focus remains on each game.

With strong form, key contributions from players like Gyökeres, and City’s recent stumbles (including prior draws/losses of points), Arsenal are in pole position for their first Premier League title since the Invincibles era in 2003/04.

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Lewis Hamilton Shares Mother’s Day Hugs with Mum in Shanghai

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Lewis Hamilton recently shared a heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute while in Shanghai for the Chinese Grand Prix weekend.

He posted a message wishing his mum, Carmen Larbalestier, his stepmum, and all mothers a happy Mother’s Day, emphasizing how their love and support have shaped him.

Lewis Hamilton
Happy Mother’s day to my mum, stepmum and all of the amazing mothers out there

In his words (shared via Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/p/DV4t2CsEz4Q/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton)

‘Wishing my mum, my step-mum and all mothers out there a happy Mother’s Day,’ he penned. ‘I wouldn’t be the person I am today if not for the love and support of these two women. 

‘I’m blessed to have my mum with me here in China and my step-mum cheering for me back at home. They’ve been selflessly devoted to nurturing and caring for me and have been my home, my team and my lights in my darkest times. 

‘I live every day to make them proud. Love you both, enjoy your day (flowers emoji).’

Hamilton’s dad Anthony separated with Carmen when the future F1 driver was just two years old, before later marrying Linda.

Linda regularly appears in the paddock to cheer Hamilton on and also supports Nicolas, who races in the British Touring Car Championship despite having cerebral palsy.

Though he has struggled to replicate his title-winning performances since joining Ferrari, Hamilton enjoyed a hugely successful day in Shanghai – a track where he has emerged victorious six times in the past.

After claiming his 10th podium finish at the Chinese GP following a thrilling battle with team-mate Charles Leclerc, Hamilton said: ‘It was one of the most enjoyable races I’ve had in a long, long time.

‘The fact that the cars are the way they are this year, and that battle with Charles at the end was awesome – great wheel-to-wheel battle, (it was) very fair and just what we want.

This comes during a special time for the family, as Carmen joined Lewis Hamilton in China ahead of the race. Lewis Hamilton arrived early after the Australian Grand Prix, flying with her to Shanghai before heading to explore stunning areas like Jiuzhaigou National Forest (with its mountains and blue lagoons), Tibetan villages, and other cultural sites. They also went horse riding together in the region.

The weekend featured touching moments, including a wholesome hug between Lewis Hamilton and his mum right after he qualified P3 for the Chinese GP—capturing that mother-son bond amid the high-pressure F1 environment. https://kobbysmyles.com/lewis-hamilton-breaks-michael-schumachers-record-for-the-most-wins-at-a-single-circuit/

Lewis Hamilton

It’s a sweet reminder of family support, especially with Mother’s Day timing aligning perfectly with the Shanghai race weekend. Fans are loving these genuine glimpses.

 

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Andre Ayew’s Header Sparks Ghana World Cup Selection Debate

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Ghana legend Andre Dede Ayew with a powerful header to put Nac Breda 3-2 ahead against Feyenood. This has sparked a social media debate about his inclusion to the senior national team of Ghana ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament.

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André Dede Ayew’s recent trademark header goal has reignited intense debate in Ghana about whether the 36-year-old former Black Stars captain should be recalled for the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. The incident stems from a match on March 8, 2026, where Ayew scored his first goal for NAC Breda in the Eredivisie. https://youtube.com/shorts/qC3c-dj0f3k?si=hU1CxQqynjFurEtF
In a thrilling 3-3 draw against Feyenoord, he rose highest to powerfully head in a cross from Lewis Holtby, putting NAC Breda 3-2 ahead at halftime. This was his debut goal after joining the Dutch club on a free transfer in the January 2026 window, ending a 372-day goal drought.
The goal described as a “powerful header” and “trademark” aerial finish has sparked widespread discussion on social media, in Ghanaian sports outlets, and among pundits, as it highlights Ayew’s ongoing form and leadership qualities amid Ghana’s preparations for the expanded 2026 World Cup (co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico).
    • Andrew Dede Ayew played a key role in the high-scoring game, with fellow Ghanaian Kamal Sowah also involved (drawing level earlier). The header demonstrated his enduring aerial threat despite his age.
    • After a challenging period (limited minutes and no goals prior), this milestone has boosted his confidence and visibility. Ayew has not ruled out a national team return, and his resurgence is seen as timely with World Cup qualification progressing (Ghana in strong contention under coach Otto Addo).

This echoes broader Ghana football discussions on balancing veterans with emerging stars, especially after recent challenges like missing AFCON 2025. Ayew’s header isn’t just a club milestone—it’s fuel for a national conversation on legacy in the lead-up to the 2026 World cup.

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