France Defeats Germany in Euro 2016 Semi-Final

On July 7, 2016, French forward Antione Griezmann continued to make a name for himself as he scored 2 goals to defeat Germany in the Euro 2016 Semi-Final. Griezmann’s first goal was in the stoppage time of the first half, and was scored off of a penalty kick given after Germany’s Bastian Schweinsteiger’s handball. His second goal was scored at the 72 minute mark, and he brilliantly directed the ball to the back of the net. France will now face Portugal in the Euro 2016 Championship match on July 10 in France.

 Portugal Defeats Wales in Euro 2016 Semi-Final

On July 6, 2016, Portugal defeated Wales 2 to 0, earning their second-ever semi-final victory in a major tournament. Wales had a greater percentage of possession, but Portugal out shot and, ultimately, outscored their opponent. Goals came from Cristiano Ronaldo’s header at the 50 minute mark, and Nani at the 53 minute mark.

Messi is Found Guilty of Tax Fraud

On July 6, 2016, Lionel Messi was found guilty on three accounts of tax fraud, and was sentenced to 21 months in prison. His father, Jorge, was also sentenced to time in jail for tax fraud. The soccer star will most likely serve the jail time as probation, but is appealing the sentence and claiming innocence.

Chelsea Seeks Messi

Due to the tax fraud conviction, Barcelona fans are concerned that Messi may have to play in another country. Chelsea fans are excited about this possibility, as the Chelsea football club is rumored to be after Messi. Apparently, Chelsea’s owner, Roman Abramovich, met with Messi’s father to discuss a potential offer of 110 million pounds for the soccer star to transfer.

Messi’s Retirement from Argentina

After losing in penalty kicks to Chile in the championship match of the Copa America tournament, Messi voiced his frustrations and announced his retirement from international play. The number one player in the world missed his penalty kick, and his statements may have been made out of post-game frustration. Lionel Messi has been a part of four championship losses on Argentina, and appears to think his time on the “Nation team is over.” Argentina fans, however, are hopeful that the star will return.