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Ronaldo: Ballon d'Or not priority
Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted the prospect of winning a second Ballon d'Or is not at the forefront of his mind on the back of another extraordinary week for the Real Madrid star.
The 28-year-old scored his fifth hat-trick of the season on Tuesday as Portugal beat Sweden 3-2 (4-2 on aggregate) to clinch their place at World Cup 2014.
Ronaldo scored the only goal in the first-leg of that tie and continued his sensational start to the campaign, which has seen him become a favourite with many to pip Lionel Messi and Franck Ribery to the individual prize.
He told Cadena Cope: "I'm not thinking much about the Ballon d'Or. I still don't know if I will go (to the award ceremony) or not - things don't depend on just me. I'm not obsessed over it."
A child present at the interview then pressed the forward on whether he believed he would be handed the famous trophy at the ceremony in Zurich in January, to which he replied: "If I do, I'll invite you to the party."
The former Manchester United player lifted the award in 2008 after winning the Champions League with the Old Trafford club.
And with the deadline for votes to be made for the Ballon d'Or extended to November 29, Ronaldo's impressive form could well see him sway voters and be named the world's best player for a second time.
Cristiano Ronaldo has insisted the prospect of winning a second Ballon d'Or is not at the forefront of his mind on the back of another extraordinary week for the Real Madrid star.
The 28-year-old scored his fifth hat-trick of the season on Tuesday as Portugal beat Sweden 3-2 (4-2 on aggregate) to clinch their place at World Cup 2014.
Ronaldo scored the only goal in the first-leg of that tie and continued his sensational start to the campaign, which has seen him become a favourite with many to pip Lionel Messi and Franck Ribery to the individual prize.
He told Cadena Cope: "I'm not thinking much about the Ballon d'Or. I still don't know if I will go (to the award ceremony) or not - things don't depend on just me. I'm not obsessed over it."
A child present at the interview then pressed the forward on whether he believed he would be handed the famous trophy at the ceremony in Zurich in January, to which he replied: "If I do, I'll invite you to the party."
The former Manchester United player lifted the award in 2008 after winning the Champions League with the Old Trafford club.
And with the deadline for votes to be made for the Ballon d'Or extended to November 29, Ronaldo's impressive form could well see him sway voters and be named the world's best player for a second time.
Casillas: I will not give up without a fight
Iker Casillas says he will not rest until he has reclaimed his place as Real Madrid No.1 from Diego Lopez.
The Spain goalkeeper has been second-choice for domestic matches this season, and only featured in the Champions League.
Casillas admits he cannot go on being a back-up forever but is determined to fight as hard as he can before contemplating leaving the Santiago Bernabeu.
“As of today I am happy and I want to carry on, but I strive to be a starter at Real Madrid - not a back-up,” he told reporters.
“If I do not play I will eventually tell you that I am not happy but I am fighting for my place in the side. I will not give up.
“I have to fight to be in every game. I need to train and fight for the job. After that it is the coach’s decision.
“What I want to do is be here for the club, win as much as possible and be a part of the coach’s plans.”
The upcoming World Cup in Brazil is prompting speculation over the futures of a number of international players who are not regulars at their clubs, but Casillas insists that is not something which is driving his thoughts.
The 32-year-old continued: “I do not think about the World Cup. Qualification and our time with the national side is over for now, so we need to focus on the club.
“If I do things right, Del Bosque will see that and I will be in his consideration. I am only thinking about doing everything right and doing everything possible to play.”
The Spain international was first dropped by Jose Mourinho during his time as Madrid boss, but despite reported tensions between the pair, the goalkeeper refused to criticise the Chelsea manager.
“For me it was a pleasure to work with him,” he said of the Portuguese.
“It was a good stage and we had good results over the three years. We won a Copa del Rey and the League – I choose to remember the good things, we do not need to keep going over the other stuff.
“We always spoke face to face and he did not keep anything hidden. I have never said anything in public against Mourinho.”
Iker Casillas says he will not rest until he has reclaimed his place as Real Madrid No.1 from Diego Lopez.
The Spain goalkeeper has been second-choice for domestic matches this season, and only featured in the Champions League.
Casillas admits he cannot go on being a back-up forever but is determined to fight as hard as he can before contemplating leaving the Santiago Bernabeu.
“As of today I am happy and I want to carry on, but I strive to be a starter at Real Madrid - not a back-up,” he told reporters.
“If I do not play I will eventually tell you that I am not happy but I am fighting for my place in the side. I will not give up.
“I have to fight to be in every game. I need to train and fight for the job. After that it is the coach’s decision.
“What I want to do is be here for the club, win as much as possible and be a part of the coach’s plans.”
The upcoming World Cup in Brazil is prompting speculation over the futures of a number of international players who are not regulars at their clubs, but Casillas insists that is not something which is driving his thoughts.
The 32-year-old continued: “I do not think about the World Cup. Qualification and our time with the national side is over for now, so we need to focus on the club.
“If I do things right, Del Bosque will see that and I will be in his consideration. I am only thinking about doing everything right and doing everything possible to play.”
The Spain international was first dropped by Jose Mourinho during his time as Madrid boss, but despite reported tensions between the pair, the goalkeeper refused to criticise the Chelsea manager.
“For me it was a pleasure to work with him,” he said of the Portuguese.
“It was a good stage and we had good results over the three years. We won a Copa del Rey and the League – I choose to remember the good things, we do not need to keep going over the other stuff.
“We always spoke face to face and he did not keep anything hidden. I have never said anything in public against Mourinho.”
Pele: Zidane was better than Messi
Pele says Zinedine Zidane was a better player than Lionel Messi when he was at his peak but revealed he would vote for the Barcelona star ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo to win the Ballon d'Or.
Zidane lifted the World Cup and European Championship with France during his playing days as well as the Champions League and then the Ballon d'Or with Real Madrid.
Messi has been widely-heralded as arguably the greatest player of all-time having won the Ballon d'Or a record four times, but Brazil legend Pele does not share that same point of view.
He told reporters: "Individually, I think Zidane was better than Messi. Zidane was amazing and the team-mates he played with were not the same standard as Messi’s; he plays with Xavi and Iniesta at Barcelona."
The Argentina international is again expected to be among the frontrunners to lift the game's most prestigious individual prize, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery his closest rivals for the crown.
And Pele admitted he would vote for Messi ahead of the aforementioned duo, while fellow Selecao legend Rivelino rubbished comparisons between the forward and Albiceleste great Diego Maradona.
"I would vote for Messi because of his technique," Pele added.
Rivelino stated: "In my opinion, Neymar is technically better than Messi. There’s no way you can compare Messi to Maradona. He fitted perfectly into a team where everything worked. This year another player will win."
Pele says Zinedine Zidane was a better player than Lionel Messi when he was at his peak but revealed he would vote for the Barcelona star ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo to win the Ballon d'Or.
Zidane lifted the World Cup and European Championship with France during his playing days as well as the Champions League and then the Ballon d'Or with Real Madrid.
Messi has been widely-heralded as arguably the greatest player of all-time having won the Ballon d'Or a record four times, but Brazil legend Pele does not share that same point of view.
He told reporters: "Individually, I think Zidane was better than Messi. Zidane was amazing and the team-mates he played with were not the same standard as Messi’s; he plays with Xavi and Iniesta at Barcelona."
The Argentina international is again expected to be among the frontrunners to lift the game's most prestigious individual prize, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Franck Ribery his closest rivals for the crown.
And Pele admitted he would vote for Messi ahead of the aforementioned duo, while fellow Selecao legend Rivelino rubbished comparisons between the forward and Albiceleste great Diego Maradona.
"I would vote for Messi because of his technique," Pele added.
Rivelino stated: "In my opinion, Neymar is technically better than Messi. There’s no way you can compare Messi to Maradona. He fitted perfectly into a team where everything worked. This year another player will win."
Casillas: Ronaldo has my Ballon d'Or vote
Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has confirmed that his Ballon d’Or 2013 first-place vote has been cast in favour of club team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Spain international caused controversy by voting for Sergio Ramos over Ronaldo in the voting for last year’s award but insists the Portugal international has his full support this time around.
Casillas believes Ronaldo deserves to win the accolade, which he maintains is a prestigious award to win despite criticism of the voting system.
He told reporters: “I voted before they extended the voting period when I was in Guinea and my first vote was for Cristiano. The other selections will be known soon enough.
“Cristiano has had a spectacular year and he deserves it. I would be surprised if he does not win. The voting is what it is, but I still think it is still a prestigious award.
“Some people vote based on the way you play, others on the number of titles won - but for someone to score 90 goals in 80 games is just brutally good.“
The 32-year-old said Ronaldo has answered Fifa president Sepp Blatter’s recent criticism with his performances on the pitch and admits any success for the forward would be a proud moment for Real Madrid as a whole.
Casillas said of Blatter: “That routine was not his best moment. Sometimes these things catch up with you, but he has apologised and we are not going to make a big deal of it.
“Cristiano does his talking on the pitch and he will be rewarded for that. Hopefully he will get the Ballon d’Or for his play. We are happy because we have contributed to his chances of winning it.”
Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery are expected to be Ronaldo’s biggest challengers for the Ballon d’Or, with the winner announced in Zurich on January 13.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has confirmed that his Ballon d’Or 2013 first-place vote has been cast in favour of club team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Spain international caused controversy by voting for Sergio Ramos over Ronaldo in the voting for last year’s award but insists the Portugal international has his full support this time around.
Casillas believes Ronaldo deserves to win the accolade, which he maintains is a prestigious award to win despite criticism of the voting system.
He told reporters: “I voted before they extended the voting period when I was in Guinea and my first vote was for Cristiano. The other selections will be known soon enough.
“Cristiano has had a spectacular year and he deserves it. I would be surprised if he does not win. The voting is what it is, but I still think it is still a prestigious award.
“Some people vote based on the way you play, others on the number of titles won - but for someone to score 90 goals in 80 games is just brutally good.“
The 32-year-old said Ronaldo has answered Fifa president Sepp Blatter’s recent criticism with his performances on the pitch and admits any success for the forward would be a proud moment for Real Madrid as a whole.
Casillas said of Blatter: “That routine was not his best moment. Sometimes these things catch up with you, but he has apologised and we are not going to make a big deal of it.
“Cristiano does his talking on the pitch and he will be rewarded for that. Hopefully he will get the Ballon d’Or for his play. We are happy because we have contributed to his chances of winning it.”
Barcelona star Lionel Messi and Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery are expected to be Ronaldo’s biggest challengers for the Ballon d’Or, with the winner announced in Zurich on January 13.
Pique: Cristiano Ronaldo is the perfect team-mate
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique had admitted his admiration for Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, saying he is perfect as a team-mate.
Before moving to Spain as Clasico rivals, the two players were colleagues at Manchester United and the Camp Nou centre-back admits seeing the Portuguese star at close quarters has given him a positive opinion.
Pique told Esport3: "As a team-mate, Cristiano Ronaldo is a perfect ‘10’.
“I admire him professionally because he sets an example to follow both as a player and as a person."
The long-running debate over who is the world’s best player shows no sign of ending as Ballon d’Or voting continues and Pique believes the rivalry between Ronaldo and his current team-mate Lionel Messi spurs both of them on to greater heights.
The 26-year-old continued: "Cristiano's good turn of form will make Messi come back with even greater enthusiasm.
“The competition between Messi and Cristiano has made both of them better."
Despite sitting top of La Liga, Barcelona have come in for criticism at stages this season and the Spain international concluded by admitting Gerardo Martino’s side can still improve.
"We could play better - the debate over our style is a wide-ranging one,” said Pique.
"But the team that won six titles was not just the best Barca team; it was the best in the history of football."
Barcelona defender Gerard Pique had admitted his admiration for Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo, saying he is perfect as a team-mate.
Before moving to Spain as Clasico rivals, the two players were colleagues at Manchester United and the Camp Nou centre-back admits seeing the Portuguese star at close quarters has given him a positive opinion.
Pique told Esport3: "As a team-mate, Cristiano Ronaldo is a perfect ‘10’.
“I admire him professionally because he sets an example to follow both as a player and as a person."
The long-running debate over who is the world’s best player shows no sign of ending as Ballon d’Or voting continues and Pique believes the rivalry between Ronaldo and his current team-mate Lionel Messi spurs both of them on to greater heights.
The 26-year-old continued: "Cristiano's good turn of form will make Messi come back with even greater enthusiasm.
“The competition between Messi and Cristiano has made both of them better."
Despite sitting top of La Liga, Barcelona have come in for criticism at stages this season and the Spain international concluded by admitting Gerardo Martino’s side can still improve.
"We could play better - the debate over our style is a wide-ranging one,” said Pique.
"But the team that won six titles was not just the best Barca team; it was the best in the history of football."
Manchester United striker Macheda returns to Doncaster on loan
Manchester United striker Federico Macheda is to return to Doncaster Rovers on loan until December 31.The 22-year-old originally joined the Championship club on a temporary basis in September.
However, Macheda’s spell at the Keepmoat Stadium was soon cut short by injury and he was forced to return to United for treatment.
Now back to full fitness, the Italian, who scored three goals in five appearances during his first loan stint at Doncaster, is to link up with the Yorkshire club once again.
“I am delighted I have been able to convince Kiko [Macheda] to re-join us as it will add to our attacking options,” Doncaster manager Paul Dickov told the club’s official website.
“I would like to thank Manchester United and Kiko for choosing to come back here. I know that he was happy here and knows the set up well. His club and we were happy about his performances in the five games he appeared in, with a tally of three goals.
“I’m pleased the owners have allowed me to bolster our attack by bringing a quality proven striker into the squad.”
Despite originally bursting onto the scene with United at an early age, Macheda has since struggled to make an impact and has also found himself shipped out on loan to Sampdoria, Queens Park Rangers and Stuttgart.
Manchester United striker Federico Macheda is to return to Doncaster Rovers on loan until December 31.The 22-year-old originally joined the Championship club on a temporary basis in September.
However, Macheda’s spell at the Keepmoat Stadium was soon cut short by injury and he was forced to return to United for treatment.
Now back to full fitness, the Italian, who scored three goals in five appearances during his first loan stint at Doncaster, is to link up with the Yorkshire club once again.
“I am delighted I have been able to convince Kiko [Macheda] to re-join us as it will add to our attacking options,” Doncaster manager Paul Dickov told the club’s official website.
“I would like to thank Manchester United and Kiko for choosing to come back here. I know that he was happy here and knows the set up well. His club and we were happy about his performances in the five games he appeared in, with a tally of three goals.
“I’m pleased the owners have allowed me to bolster our attack by bringing a quality proven striker into the squad.”
Despite originally bursting onto the scene with United at an early age, Macheda has since struggled to make an impact and has also found himself shipped out on loan to Sampdoria, Queens Park Rangers and Stuttgart.
Messi: Berbatov to Barcelona is impossible
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi says it would be "impossible" for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov to join the club.
Recent reports have speculated that the 32-year-old Bulgaria international could be on his way to Camp Nou as coach Gerardo Martino looks for cover following Messi's hamstring tear that is expected to keep him out for the next eight weeks.
However, the Argentine believes that although the attacker is a good player and has experience the move is unlikely to materialise.
"I haven’t heard the rumour that Berbatov is linked to Barcelona. In fact he is a good player, he has experience in a big team," Messi told TV7.
"It’s not my business to interfere with the club’s transfer decisions but I think it’s impossible for Dimitar to join Barcelona."
Berbatov, who is out of contract at the end of the season, would be a cheaper alternative to other names that have been linked with a switch to the Catalan club, such as Oscar Cardozo and Sergio Aguero.
The Fulham striker has one goal in 10 Premier League appearances this season.
Martino has said he has faith in current forwards Alexis Sanchez and Neymar, but he would like additional cover.
Barcelona striker Lionel Messi says it would be "impossible" for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov to join the club.
Recent reports have speculated that the 32-year-old Bulgaria international could be on his way to Camp Nou as coach Gerardo Martino looks for cover following Messi's hamstring tear that is expected to keep him out for the next eight weeks.
However, the Argentine believes that although the attacker is a good player and has experience the move is unlikely to materialise.
"I haven’t heard the rumour that Berbatov is linked to Barcelona. In fact he is a good player, he has experience in a big team," Messi told TV7.
"It’s not my business to interfere with the club’s transfer decisions but I think it’s impossible for Dimitar to join Barcelona."
Berbatov, who is out of contract at the end of the season, would be a cheaper alternative to other names that have been linked with a switch to the Catalan club, such as Oscar Cardozo and Sergio Aguero.
The Fulham striker has one goal in 10 Premier League appearances this season.
Martino has said he has faith in current forwards Alexis Sanchez and Neymar, but he would like additional cover.
Fit-again Walcott returns to Arsenal squad for Southampton clash
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Theo Walcott has returned to fitness and is back in his squad ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Southampton.
The England international has been sidelined for two months after he sustained an abdominal injury in September.
And while the Gunners have coped well without Walcott in that time, currently sitting two points clear at the top of the Premier League, Wenger feels the winger’s return will add a new dimension to his side in the final third.
"He is one of the players who goes behind (the defence) without the ball," Wenger told Arsenal Player. "Strikers who get behind the defenders is a very important quality and Theo has that quality.
"Of course you miss a player like Theo Walcott. Theo had a good start to the season, he scored goals, he provided chances and had assists. He can always give you a different option in the game and that is of course vital.
"You always want to have a perfect balance (in attack). If you look at our results our balance was not too bad.
"But Theo has different qualities to other players and I am very pleased that he's back."
Should Walcott return to action on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium, he will be coming up against the side with which he started his professional career.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Theo Walcott has returned to fitness and is back in his squad ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Southampton.
The England international has been sidelined for two months after he sustained an abdominal injury in September.
And while the Gunners have coped well without Walcott in that time, currently sitting two points clear at the top of the Premier League, Wenger feels the winger’s return will add a new dimension to his side in the final third.
"He is one of the players who goes behind (the defence) without the ball," Wenger told Arsenal Player. "Strikers who get behind the defenders is a very important quality and Theo has that quality.
"Of course you miss a player like Theo Walcott. Theo had a good start to the season, he scored goals, he provided chances and had assists. He can always give you a different option in the game and that is of course vital.
"You always want to have a perfect balance (in attack). If you look at our results our balance was not too bad.
"But Theo has different qualities to other players and I am very pleased that he's back."
Should Walcott return to action on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium, he will be coming up against the side with which he started his professional career.
Anderson determined to stay and prove his worth at Manchester United
Anderson insists he is happy to stay at Manchester United and fight for a starting place at Old Trafford.
The 25-year-old has struggled for game time this season under Red Devils boss David Moyes, and has not featured since the defeat to West Brom in September.
However, the midfielder, who arrived at Old Trafford in 2007, says he is
determined to prove his worth to Moyes.
“I have played only two games this season and I tried to do my very best for the team. But it is very hard when you only play a small part now and then,” he told Manchester Evening News.
“But I am not unhappy. I am enjoying it and I know I will be ready whenever the manager picks me.
“I haven’t spoken to David Moyes about my situation because I think I have a good situation at the moment. I love this club and I have been here for over six years.“I am only 25 years old and I have about seven years football left in me. So I have time on my side and I am happy at Old Trafford.
“I had a lot of injuries last season. I have come back now to help United. I came back in pre-season and felt good and I have been fit now all season.“I just have to wait for the moment and when it comes for me then I have to take that opportunity.”
With Anderson having found himself deemed surplus to requirements for the majority of the season so far, he has been linked with a move elsewhere, with Fulham reportedly showing an interest.
The Brazilian, though, says he is not paying attention to the speculation and is instead concentrating on his football.
“I cannot say anything about other clubs showing an interest. I am at Manchester United and am a Manchester United player. I have to do my job here and work hard every day to make it work because that’s what I want,” Anderson added.
“I am not thinking about moving on. All I am thinking about is helping my team, my team-mates and doing the best for myself. I am a Manchester United player, I love the fans, I love the club. I love the way everyone supports the club – it is amazing. It is the best club in the world.”With his homeland set to host next summer’s World Cup, Anderson, who has won eight caps for Brazil, is still targeting a spot in Luiz Felipe Scolari’s final squad.
“Every player wants to be in the World Cup. It will be so nice to play in it in Brazil obviously,” he said.
“I have a chance. If I get opportunities to play for United then I think I could have an opportunity to play for Brazil in the World Cup."
Anderson insists he is happy to stay at Manchester United and fight for a starting place at Old Trafford.
The 25-year-old has struggled for game time this season under Red Devils boss David Moyes, and has not featured since the defeat to West Brom in September.
However, the midfielder, who arrived at Old Trafford in 2007, says he is
determined to prove his worth to Moyes.
“I have played only two games this season and I tried to do my very best for the team. But it is very hard when you only play a small part now and then,” he told Manchester Evening News.
“But I am not unhappy. I am enjoying it and I know I will be ready whenever the manager picks me.
“I haven’t spoken to David Moyes about my situation because I think I have a good situation at the moment. I love this club and I have been here for over six years.“I am only 25 years old and I have about seven years football left in me. So I have time on my side and I am happy at Old Trafford.
“I had a lot of injuries last season. I have come back now to help United. I came back in pre-season and felt good and I have been fit now all season.“I just have to wait for the moment and when it comes for me then I have to take that opportunity.”
With Anderson having found himself deemed surplus to requirements for the majority of the season so far, he has been linked with a move elsewhere, with Fulham reportedly showing an interest.
The Brazilian, though, says he is not paying attention to the speculation and is instead concentrating on his football.
“I cannot say anything about other clubs showing an interest. I am at Manchester United and am a Manchester United player. I have to do my job here and work hard every day to make it work because that’s what I want,” Anderson added.
“I am not thinking about moving on. All I am thinking about is helping my team, my team-mates and doing the best for myself. I am a Manchester United player, I love the fans, I love the club. I love the way everyone supports the club – it is amazing. It is the best club in the world.”With his homeland set to host next summer’s World Cup, Anderson, who has won eight caps for Brazil, is still targeting a spot in Luiz Felipe Scolari’s final squad.
“Every player wants to be in the World Cup. It will be so nice to play in it in Brazil obviously,” he said.
“I have a chance. If I get opportunities to play for United then I think I could have an opportunity to play for Brazil in the World Cup."
Messi: I'm pleased Ronaldo will be at the World Cup
Barcelona and Argentina forward Lionel Messi says he was happy to see Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo seal Portugal's qualification for World Cup 2014.
Ronaldo, 28, scored a stunning hat-trick in the second leg of the 4-2 aggregate victory over Sweden in Tuesday's World Cup play-off to ensure their place in Brazil.
And Messi lauded the Real Madrid star for his display and spoke of his happiness at seeing his rival's side qualify for next year's tournament.
"I was very happy for him when he scored those goals," Messi told reporters.
"It's just great when the best teams compete in Brazil, and Cristiano has had a great scoring rate for many years.
"I don't know if this is Cristiano's best moment, but he is always there, scoring goals in all the games and playing his part for his club and his country. He has been like that for many years.
"Whether he is at his best, or a bit below that, there is almost no difference."
Messi, who picked up the Golden Shoe for a record third occasion after netting 46 times in La Liga last season, is hoping to add the World Cup with Argentina to an impressive list of awards next summer.
"Certainly, to win the World Cup is a dream for me, my team-mates and all of Argentina," he added.
"We need to improve a couple of things, but there are still seven months until the tournament starts. Hopefully we can win there, but a lot of nations can do it."
The 26-year-old, who is expected be out for the next eight weeks after tearing his hamstring, says he has no intention of leaving Barca, despite suggestions that he would appreciate a different challenge in football.
"My intention is to stay with Barcelona for good," he said.
"I am grateful if what they say is true and there are people interested. It makes you proud that they say such things. But my life is with Barcelona."
Barcelona and Argentina forward Lionel Messi says he was happy to see Real Madrid rival Cristiano Ronaldo seal Portugal's qualification for World Cup 2014.
Ronaldo, 28, scored a stunning hat-trick in the second leg of the 4-2 aggregate victory over Sweden in Tuesday's World Cup play-off to ensure their place in Brazil.
And Messi lauded the Real Madrid star for his display and spoke of his happiness at seeing his rival's side qualify for next year's tournament.
"I was very happy for him when he scored those goals," Messi told reporters.
"It's just great when the best teams compete in Brazil, and Cristiano has had a great scoring rate for many years.
"I don't know if this is Cristiano's best moment, but he is always there, scoring goals in all the games and playing his part for his club and his country. He has been like that for many years.
"Whether he is at his best, or a bit below that, there is almost no difference."
Messi, who picked up the Golden Shoe for a record third occasion after netting 46 times in La Liga last season, is hoping to add the World Cup with Argentina to an impressive list of awards next summer.
"Certainly, to win the World Cup is a dream for me, my team-mates and all of Argentina," he added.
"We need to improve a couple of things, but there are still seven months until the tournament starts. Hopefully we can win there, but a lot of nations can do it."
The 26-year-old, who is expected be out for the next eight weeks after tearing his hamstring, says he has no intention of leaving Barca, despite suggestions that he would appreciate a different challenge in football.
"My intention is to stay with Barcelona for good," he said.
"I am grateful if what they say is true and there are people interested. It makes you proud that they say such things. But my life is with Barcelona."
Manchester City target €12m wonderkid Zouma
Manchester City are considering a move for 19-year-old St. Etienne sensation Kurt Zouma, Goal understands.
Chief executive Ferran Soriano and Sporting Director Txiki Begiristain are big fans of the France Under-21 star and have earmarked him as an ideal solution to bolstering City’s depleted defensive line-up.
City are hopeful that they could secure him for around £10 million after having conducted initial talks with the French club.
The Etihad Stadium outfit have also made informal enquiries over Porto pair Eliaquim Mangala and Nicolas Otamendi but have found the Portuguese outfit reluctant to sell two of their most high-profile assets.
Zouma, who is currently banned until February after breaking Sochaux midfielder Thomas Guerbert’s leg earlier this month, has been watched closely by City’s chief scout Gary Worthington and is seen as a cheaper alternative.
Chelsea are also known to be interested in the youngster but City, who have been hit by injuries to Vincent Kompany, Matija Nastasic, Micah Richards and new boy Martin Demichelis so far this term, are desperate to increase their strength-in-depth at the back.
Manuel Pellegrini has not been put off by the 19-year-old’s 10-game ban and is working closely with both Soriano and Begiristain ahead of the January transfer window.
Zouma made his professional debut for St. Etienne at the age of 16 and has since played over 50 games for the Ligue 1 club, attracting interest from a host of top European clubs in the process.
Manchester City are considering a move for 19-year-old St. Etienne sensation Kurt Zouma, Goal understands.
Chief executive Ferran Soriano and Sporting Director Txiki Begiristain are big fans of the France Under-21 star and have earmarked him as an ideal solution to bolstering City’s depleted defensive line-up.
City are hopeful that they could secure him for around £10 million after having conducted initial talks with the French club.
The Etihad Stadium outfit have also made informal enquiries over Porto pair Eliaquim Mangala and Nicolas Otamendi but have found the Portuguese outfit reluctant to sell two of their most high-profile assets.
Zouma, who is currently banned until February after breaking Sochaux midfielder Thomas Guerbert’s leg earlier this month, has been watched closely by City’s chief scout Gary Worthington and is seen as a cheaper alternative.
Chelsea are also known to be interested in the youngster but City, who have been hit by injuries to Vincent Kompany, Matija Nastasic, Micah Richards and new boy Martin Demichelis so far this term, are desperate to increase their strength-in-depth at the back.
Manuel Pellegrini has not been put off by the 19-year-old’s 10-game ban and is working closely with both Soriano and Begiristain ahead of the January transfer window.
Zouma made his professional debut for St. Etienne at the age of 16 and has since played over 50 games for the Ligue 1 club, attracting interest from a host of top European clubs in the process.
Ibrahimovic: I did not applaud Ronaldo
Sweden captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic has insisted that he did not applaud Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo after the latter completed his hat-trick in Tuesday's World Cup qualification win.
The Paris Saint-Germain striker was seen clapping his hands after Ronaldo scored his third goal of the game to effectively end Sweden's World Cup ambitions, but Ibrahimovic has stressed that he was simply attempting to rouse his team-mates rather than show the Madrid man his appreciation.
"Was I applauding Ronaldo? No, I was just trying to encourage my team-mates," Ibrahimovic told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I clapped my hands to cheer them up and motivate them for the last few minutes.
"We had already gone down before. It is important not to give up until the final whistle because the unexpected can always happen."
The PSG striker did confess his admiration for the 28-year-old's prowess on the counterattack but insisted his own side's defensive lapses made life easy for the Madrid man.
"He's obviously a great player, but we allowed him way too much space. Nobody's as good as he is on the counterattack. This game once more showed his biggest qualities," added Ibrahimovic.
"Is he the best player in the world? I can only say that he scored one goal more than I did."
Sweden captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic has insisted that he did not applaud Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo after the latter completed his hat-trick in Tuesday's World Cup qualification win.
The Paris Saint-Germain striker was seen clapping his hands after Ronaldo scored his third goal of the game to effectively end Sweden's World Cup ambitions, but Ibrahimovic has stressed that he was simply attempting to rouse his team-mates rather than show the Madrid man his appreciation.
"Was I applauding Ronaldo? No, I was just trying to encourage my team-mates," Ibrahimovic told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I clapped my hands to cheer them up and motivate them for the last few minutes.
"We had already gone down before. It is important not to give up until the final whistle because the unexpected can always happen."
The PSG striker did confess his admiration for the 28-year-old's prowess on the counterattack but insisted his own side's defensive lapses made life easy for the Madrid man.
"He's obviously a great player, but we allowed him way too much space. Nobody's as good as he is on the counterattack. This game once more showed his biggest qualities," added Ibrahimovic.
"Is he the best player in the world? I can only say that he scored one goal more than I did."
My England World Cup spot not guaranteed, admits Wilshere
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere knows he faces a fight to secure a place in England's World Cup squad.
The 21-year-old has not been at the peak of his powers his season due to a combination of patchy form and injury problems.
Wilshere again found himself on the bench in Arsenal's last Premier League game at Manchester United and was a substitute in England's friendly defeat to Germany at Wembley on Tuesday.
And the midfielder admits he must rediscover his best level in order to secure his ticket to Brazil.
When asked if he was thought he was guaranteed a place in the England squad, Wilshere said: "No, not at all.
"You have seen over the past couple of months the talent there is, even in the Under-21s.
"Ravel Morrison and all these players are coming through. You are never guaranteed, and cannot rest on your laurels.
"You are only as good as your last game, they say, so when the time comes, I have to be on top form, and there will be a lot of players looking to be as well."
Wilshere has scored twice in 19 appearances for club and country so far this season and will be in contention for Arsenal as they host Southampton on Saturday.
Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere knows he faces a fight to secure a place in England's World Cup squad.
The 21-year-old has not been at the peak of his powers his season due to a combination of patchy form and injury problems.
Wilshere again found himself on the bench in Arsenal's last Premier League game at Manchester United and was a substitute in England's friendly defeat to Germany at Wembley on Tuesday.
And the midfielder admits he must rediscover his best level in order to secure his ticket to Brazil.
When asked if he was thought he was guaranteed a place in the England squad, Wilshere said: "No, not at all.
"You have seen over the past couple of months the talent there is, even in the Under-21s.
"Ravel Morrison and all these players are coming through. You are never guaranteed, and cannot rest on your laurels.
"You are only as good as your last game, they say, so when the time comes, I have to be on top form, and there will be a lot of players looking to be as well."
Wilshere has scored twice in 19 appearances for club and country so far this season and will be in contention for Arsenal as they host Southampton on Saturday.
Uruguay 0-0 Jordan (agg 5-0): South Americans seal World Cup berth despite bore draw
Uruguay were surprisingly held to a 0-0 draw in the second leg of their intercontinental play-off with Jordan on Wednesday night but still progressed to the World Cup courtesy of a 5-0 aggregate win.
A five-goal first-leg victory in Jordan last week all but guaranteed qualification but the Uruguayans still had to finish the job in front of their home fans on Wednesday.
Head coach Oscar Tabarez named an unchanged Uruguay starting line-up, with attacking weapons Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani occupying the two striking positions.
It was up to the Jordanians to make all the running, needing at least five goals to force the game into extra-time.
The away side started encouragingly, pushing numbers forward to trouble the South American's defence but once Uruguay secured control of possession, the tie fizzled out with neither side creating many clear-cut chances.
Uruguay had two good opportunities in the first half with Cavani creating space for himself before blasting high and wide and Diego Godin's close-range header from a corner hitting the crossbar.
Diego Lugano came closest for the home side in the second period when his free header drifted narrowly wide.
The Uruguayans, sixth in the Fifa world rankings, will enter Pot One for the World Cup draw on December 6 and will avoid being drawn in a group with hosts Brazil, reigning champions Spain, Germany or Argentina.
Uruguay were surprisingly held to a 0-0 draw in the second leg of their intercontinental play-off with Jordan on Wednesday night but still progressed to the World Cup courtesy of a 5-0 aggregate win.
A five-goal first-leg victory in Jordan last week all but guaranteed qualification but the Uruguayans still had to finish the job in front of their home fans on Wednesday.
Head coach Oscar Tabarez named an unchanged Uruguay starting line-up, with attacking weapons Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani occupying the two striking positions.
It was up to the Jordanians to make all the running, needing at least five goals to force the game into extra-time.
The away side started encouragingly, pushing numbers forward to trouble the South American's defence but once Uruguay secured control of possession, the tie fizzled out with neither side creating many clear-cut chances.
Uruguay had two good opportunities in the first half with Cavani creating space for himself before blasting high and wide and Diego Godin's close-range header from a corner hitting the crossbar.
Diego Lugano came closest for the home side in the second period when his free header drifted narrowly wide.
The Uruguayans, sixth in the Fifa world rankings, will enter Pot One for the World Cup draw on December 6 and will avoid being drawn in a group with hosts Brazil, reigning champions Spain, Germany or Argentina.
Barcelona confident over €11m-per-year Iniesta deal
Barcelona are confident of agreeing a contract extension with Andres Iniesta by the end of December. The midfielder has asked for a deal that will net him over €11million a year and see him finish his trophy-laden career at the Catalan club.
Iniesta, 29, has been stalling on a deal for some time and was unhappy at his lack of minutes earlier in the season, but Barca are increasingly hopeful a deal will be struck before the end of the year.
Elected as Uefa's best footballer following Barcelona's last Champions League winning campaign, the midfielder's current deal expires in 2015 and the club's reluctance to meet his demands for a net salary of least €11m have drawn the attention of Europe's leading clubs. The exact length of his new contract is yet be finalised.
Barca's confidence in retaining an individual who has trained and played in the club's colours since he was a 12-year-old is based on a belief that Iniesta's strong preference is to continue, and ultimately, conclude his stellar career at Camp Nou. They remain, however, some distance from matching the player's financial demands.
At present, Iniesta's after-tax salary stands at €8m, a sum which placed him on the second tier of Barcelona's pay scale with Xavi until the club spent heavily to complete Neymar's long-planned transfer from Santos last summer. Under pressure from Real Madrid, who budgeted over €100m to usurp their rivals' pre-contract agreement with the Brazil forward, Barca agreed an unprecedented remuneration package for a recruit with zero experience of European football at that point.
Though Neymar's personal terms were structured in a fashion that his new employers could present his base salary as being lower than Iniesta and Xavi's at €7m net, other payments to the Brazilian and his family inflated the effective earnings well beyond that of the two playmakers.
In June, Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu announced that the club had paid €57m to Santos, and three companies – DIS Esporte, Terceira Estrela Investimentos and N&N – to secure Neymar's signature. Neymar's father owns N&N, which is understood to have received €40m of that outlay. Barca had already spent €10m in December 2011 to acquire a first option on Neymar's transfer from Brazil.
The deal unsettled a number of Barca stalwarts, effectively establishing a new watermark for their own salary negotiations.
Iniesta and his advisers expect the 29-year-old's new deal to net between €10m and €11m per annum. They regard the matter as one not just of financial fairness, but as a recognition of the midfielder's status within a club where he has been a central element in six La Liga and three Champions League winning teams.
Barcelona are confident of agreeing a contract extension with Andres Iniesta by the end of December. The midfielder has asked for a deal that will net him over €11million a year and see him finish his trophy-laden career at the Catalan club.
Iniesta, 29, has been stalling on a deal for some time and was unhappy at his lack of minutes earlier in the season, but Barca are increasingly hopeful a deal will be struck before the end of the year.
Elected as Uefa's best footballer following Barcelona's last Champions League winning campaign, the midfielder's current deal expires in 2015 and the club's reluctance to meet his demands for a net salary of least €11m have drawn the attention of Europe's leading clubs. The exact length of his new contract is yet be finalised.
Barca's confidence in retaining an individual who has trained and played in the club's colours since he was a 12-year-old is based on a belief that Iniesta's strong preference is to continue, and ultimately, conclude his stellar career at Camp Nou. They remain, however, some distance from matching the player's financial demands.
At present, Iniesta's after-tax salary stands at €8m, a sum which placed him on the second tier of Barcelona's pay scale with Xavi until the club spent heavily to complete Neymar's long-planned transfer from Santos last summer. Under pressure from Real Madrid, who budgeted over €100m to usurp their rivals' pre-contract agreement with the Brazil forward, Barca agreed an unprecedented remuneration package for a recruit with zero experience of European football at that point.
Though Neymar's personal terms were structured in a fashion that his new employers could present his base salary as being lower than Iniesta and Xavi's at €7m net, other payments to the Brazilian and his family inflated the effective earnings well beyond that of the two playmakers.
In June, Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu announced that the club had paid €57m to Santos, and three companies – DIS Esporte, Terceira Estrela Investimentos and N&N – to secure Neymar's signature. Neymar's father owns N&N, which is understood to have received €40m of that outlay. Barca had already spent €10m in December 2011 to acquire a first option on Neymar's transfer from Brazil.
The deal unsettled a number of Barca stalwarts, effectively establishing a new watermark for their own salary negotiations.
Iniesta and his advisers expect the 29-year-old's new deal to net between €10m and €11m per annum. They regard the matter as one not just of financial fairness, but as a recognition of the midfielder's status within a club where he has been a central element in six La Liga and three Champions League winning teams.
Ibrahimovic: I did not applaud Ronaldo
Sweden captain Zlatan Ibrahimovic has insisted that he did not applaud Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo after the latter completed his hat-trick in Tuesday's World Cup qualification win.
The Paris Saint-Germain striker was seen clapping his hands after Ronaldo scored his third goal of the game to effectively end Sweden's World Cup ambitions, but Ibrahimovic has stressed that he was simply attempting to rouse his team-mates rather than show the Madrid man his appreciation.
"Was I applauding Ronaldo? No, I was just trying to encourage my team-mates," Ibrahimovic told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I clapped my hands to cheer them up and motivate them for the last few minutes.
"We had already gone down before. It is important not to give up until the final whistle because the unexpected can always happen."
The PSG striker did confess his admiration for the 28-year-old's prowess on the counterattack but insisted his own side's defensive lapses made life easy for the Madrid man.
"He's obviously a great player, but we allowed him way too much space. Nobody's as good as he is on the counterattack. This game once more showed his biggest qualities," added Ibrahimovic.
"Is he the best player in the world? I can only say that he scored one goal more than I did."
Typical Ibra
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