Raphinha hat-trick inspires Barcelona to demolition of Bayern Munich

FC Barcelona captain Raphinha scored a hat-trick to lead them to a commanding 4-1 home victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday, ending a near decade-long winless run against the German powerhouses. The Brazilian winger gave Barca the lead inside the opening minute but the Catalans were pegged back by Harry Kane. A goal from Robert Lewandowski restored the home side’s lead before Raphinha completed his hat-trick.

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Andrés Iniesta announces retirement from football

Spain World Cup winner and FC Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta has announced his retirement from football at the age of 40. Iniesta is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history, thanks in part to the midfield partnerships he formed with Xavi Hernandez and Sergio Busquets for Spain and Barcelona. He earned 131 caps for his country, scoring the winning goal in the 2010 Fifa World Cup final and winning the European Championship in 2008 and 2012.

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Netherlands legend Johan Neeskens dies aged 73

Former Netherlands midfielder Johan Neeskens, best known for his time at Ajax and Barcelona, has died at the age of 73. Neeskens, who scored 17 goals in 49 international appearances for the Netherlands, enjoyed a 23-year playing career and later had spells in prominent managerial and coaching roles.

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Lewandowski bags brace as Barca blitz Young Boys

Robert Lewandowski scored twice as Barcelona comprehensively beat Young Boys in the Champions League. Lewandowski struck after eight minutes for the hosts, poking home Raphinha’s ball across the box at the back post. Barca doubled their lead as Brazil forward Raphinha netted the rebound from Pedri’s blocked shot.

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Oyarzabal strikes late as Spain win Euro 2024

Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal scored four minutes from time to give Spain a deserved 2-1 Euro 2024 final victory over England on Sunday and a record fourth European crown, as Gareth Southgate’s team lost in their second successive final. Oyarzabal combined with Marc Cucurella on a swift counter-attack for the winning goal as Spain were crowned champions, having won all seven games they played in the tournament.

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