Former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman reflects on Lionel Messi's 2006 World Cup debut, stating he always believed the then 18-year-old would become one of the game's defining figures and that every minute on the pitch was crucial for his development.
Lionel Messi assumed the rare role of fan on Thursday conveying his best wishes to his idol and Argentina great Pablo Aimar who retired on Wednesday.
Valencia midfielder Pablo Aimar was discharged from hospital on Sunday after spending the night under observation after a blow to the head.
Porto's Radamel Falcao scored a hat-trick to help the newly-crowned Portuguese champions thrash Spartak Moscow 5-1 as goals flowed and South American players shone in Europa League quarter-final first leg ties on Thursday.
Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze, who has been out all season with a knee injury, was included in Argentina's World Cup squad.
Two goals by Paraguay striker Oscar Cardozo helped Benfica to a 4-0 win over Hertha Berlin on Tuesday to clinch a place in the last 16 of the Europa League.
The World Cup stage in Germany should inspire rather than overawe the 18-year-old Argentine striker.
Scaloni has helped get one over the Dutch Master at least once before when he was at Deportivo, who pipped Van Gaal's Barcelona to the 1999-2000 La Liga title.
The Spanish club have the possibility of a first domestic and European double when they face Villarreal in the UEFA Cup semi-final.
Hosts France will play an Olympic men's football final for the first time in 40 years after beating Egypt 3-1 in extra-time at the Lyon stadium on Monday and will face Spain for the gold medal.
India stun Argentina in U-20 COTIF Cup football tourney
Indian football was a picture of good health with a 10-man under-20 outfit's triumph over Argentina
News of all that's transpired on and off the football field
