Weekend Highlights: Buendia Stuns Arsenal; Messi Leads Inter Miami to MLS Cup Victory
Champion: Lionel Messi
On Saturday, Lionel Messi celebrated yet another triumph as Inter Miami secured victory in the MLS Cup final. This achievement marks the Argentine’s remarkable tally of 48 career titles—an unprecedented milestone in the world of football.
This triumph is his first significant achievement in the United States, following previous successes such as the Leagues Cup, Supporters’ Shield, and the Eastern Conference championship (the latter being somewhat contentious as a ‘title’). His influence on the game remains formidable even outside Europe.
The final, which saw Inter Miami face off against the Vancouver Whitecaps, concluded a thrilling year for Messi. Looking ahead to 2026, he has the potential to enhance his trophy collection further, with new challenges awaiting in Miami and a World Cup opportunity with Argentina on the horizon.
Almost two decades after claiming his first trophy, Messi continues to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest in football history.
Disappointment: Iker Guarrotxena
In a bizarre incident this week, FC Goa’s Iker Guarrotxena received a red card in the tunnel prior to the Indian Super Cup semi-final, much to the shock of his coach and teammates. The reason? He wore blue boxer shorts that did not meet the dress code, and when asked to change, his protests led to a dismissal before the match had even begun.
Fortunately for Goa, they managed to replace him before kickoff, played with a full squad, and won 2-1 against Mumbai City to reach the final. They later secured the title on penalties against East Bengal, but Guarrotxena, suspended due to his choice of underwear, missed the chance to celebrate his team’s victory.
Champion: Emiliano Buendia
Aston Villa’s Argentine midfielder Emiliano Buendia made a significant impact after being substituted in during the 86th minute against Arsenal. In a match where the Gunners had been unbeaten for over three months, his goal in the 94th minute proved to be decisive, coming amidst a chaotic scramble in the box.
This victory elevated Aston Villa to 30 points and third place in the league standings, while Arsenal found themselves faltering again, managing only two wins in their last five league matches—with Manchester City now closing in.
Struggling: Fiorentina
The situation for Fiorentina continues to worsen, earning them a consistent spot among the disappointments. They find themselves at the bottom of Serie A, having secured just two points in their last five matches and failing to win any of their 14 league games.
The anticipated change in momentum with new coach Paolo Vanoli has yet to materialize, leaving the team looking more vulnerable than before. Following a 3-1 defeat to Sassuolo, frustrated fans voiced their displeasure. Despite the club’s backing of the coach, they have deemed the performance unacceptable. This makes the upcoming match against Verona a pivotal moment, though uncertainty looms over the club’s direction.
Champion: Yan Diomande
RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, despite being only 19 years old and in his rookie Bundesliga season, is already displaying signs of veteran prowess. In a striking performance against Eintracht Frankfurt, he scored his first professional hat-trick in just 18 minutes, all while wearing a protective mask.
His goals showcased both opportunism and skill—starting with a quick follow-up for his first, a well-executed shot for his second, and a concerted effort on the break for his third. Recognized with a loud ovation as he left the field with three minutes remaining, Diomande, signed for 20 million from Leganes, is quickly becoming one of the most promising talents in the league.
Downfall: The Madrid Giants
Atletico Madrid, under Diego Simeone, is in crisis mode following two losses in four days—first to Barcelona and then to Athletic Bilbao. Their away form is particularly troubling, with just nine points from eight matches on the road, raising questions amidst the previous summer’s hefty investments.
Across town, Real Madrid also suffered a setback, unexpectedly bowing out to Celta Vigo 2-0 at home while receiving two red cards. This defeat allows Barcelona to extend their lead at the top of the table, leaving both Madrid giants in need of urgent improvements.
Champion: Ethan Mbappe
While Kylian Mbappe faced a quieter night, it was Ethan, his younger brother, who stole the spotlight, securing victory for Lille against Marseille with a stunning goal. With a deft touch and a precise left-footed shot, he set the tone early in the match, just ten minutes in.
Beyond scoring, Ethan displayed confidence and dynamism throughout the match, contributing defensively as well. Despite Marseille’s poor attack, managing only two shots on target, Lille demonstrated resilience. For Ethan, this match marked a notable breakthrough in Ligue 1, signaling that it could be the first of many standout performances.
Disappointment: Paulo Gazzaniga
Girona faced a humiliating 3-0 loss to Elche, with goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga under intense scrutiny once again. His performance, particularly between the end of the first half and the beginning of the second, was marred by a series of critical errors that left his team exposed.
After a shaky start, his blunders culminated in him handing an easy goal to Rafa Mir, further highlighting the team’s struggles. With little to show from their season, Girona is caught in a downward spiral, and Gazzaniga’s loss of confidence is becoming increasingly apparent.