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    Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson only made his senior debut a year ago but is already an international football star

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    KAROY ANDERSON had a remarkable first year in senior football.The Charlton midfield wonderkid made his league debut, within two months was playing for Jamaica, racked up 24 league starts and played at the Copa America.Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson has had an incredible first year in senior footballCredit: JUSTIN ALLENAll this and he is still only 19.The academy-graduate though is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.He told SunSport: “If you look far ahead, you get lost in the future. If you look into the past you can get stuck there.“It was a great opportunity and experience to go to the Copa America, to participate in a tournament that size. I didn’t think about the magnitude of it until I got there.“The atmosphere was unbelievable. It was the nature of the games and what it meant, especially for my family and the people of Jamaica. It was humbling. read more football“It was exciting – the fans, stadiums and being able to travel to see difference places but also take business seriously.”Anderson came on as a late sub against Ecuador and played the last 22 minutes of the final group match with Venezuela.In the Jamaica squad he played and trained alongside the likes of West Ham star Michail Antonio, ex-Leicester, Everton and Birmingham ace Demari Gray and Brentford’s Ethan Pinnock.And, also in the group, was his Charlton team-mate Michael Hector.Most read in SportAnderson said: “I learned so much. I saw how they carried themselves and their application to training every day. They’re at a high level and been there for a while. You see what habits have ultimately kept them there, their mindset and preparation.“I got on with the majority of the team. I was room-mates with Dexter Lembikisa from Wolves. He’s been on loan at Hearts in Scotland.EFL goalkeeper sends fans into meltdown with utterly ridiculous ‘skill of the season’ in pre-season clash”It was a good experience to speak to someone like that and learn things from someone who is a similar age to me and who is at a Premier League club.”And in the Venezuela game, the Charlton kid faced former Newcastle, Everton and West Brom ace Salomon Rondon.But Anderson said while he was out there he was so zoned into the game he did not take notice who he was up against.And he said: “I didn’t think about other players in the moment. After the game you think, “Oh, I played against him” but in the moment I see it as football.”We’re all on the same pitch and on the same level. I don’t look at players and think, ‘wow.’ Of course, it was nice to share the pitch with big names.”Anderson’s mum is Jamaican while his dad also descends from there.And while he did once harbour ambition to play for England in recent years his heart was set on playing for the Caribbean island.The midfielder said: “Because I was born and raised in South London, when I was younger I was thinking about playing for England but as I got older I spent a lot of time going with my mum to different places and interacting with Jamaican people.”Also with my brother too. We spoke about what it would be like to play for Jamaica, what it means to everyone back home and how proud they would be. For that reason, it wasn’t a question who I’d play for.”And there was never a question that Anderson would not play for his local club.READ MORE SUN STORIESCharlton boss Nathan Jones can use the vast experience he gained at Luton to plot a way up to the ChampionshipKaroy Anderson is hoping to help Charlton win promotion this seasonCredit: JUSTIN ALLENThroughout his journey through the academy he often played a year, two years, even three years above his age-group as his coaches constantly challenged him to step up in class.Anderson may not have been star-struck while playing in the Copa America but certainly was when he used to be a ball-boy at The Valley.He said: “I was a scholar at Charlton and we’d be ballboys at the games. As a kid, that was so exciting and I loved watching players like Joe Gomez. Even though we don’t play in the same position, seeing his journey has been really inspiring.”One of the midfielder’s middle names is Zidane — due to his mum’s admiration for Zinedine — but his idol growing up was another French superstar, Paul Pogba.He said: “I loved him when he was at Juventus, how exciting he was. I look up to those sort of players.”Anderson is hoping to help the Addicks climb out of League One at the fifth attempt.And in Nathan Jones they have a manager who has been there and done it – as he was instrumental in Luton’s climb from League Two to the brink of the Premier League.The rookie midfield ace added: “Everyone trusts him and knows he knows what it takes to get out of his league and will do his best to bring this group to where the club can be. There is complete trust and we follow him.“Our aim is to get promoted – it’s as simple as that.” More

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      Argentina vs Colombia – Copa America final 2024: Lionel Messi breaks down in tears as he leaves game with injury

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      ARGENTINA’S Lionel Messi has left the Copa America final with an injury after falling to the ground chasing the ball.Messi was shown on the sidelines in tears after he shortly walked off the field.This comes after Messi suffered an injury scare late in the first half after falling to the pitch and grabbing his ankle after diving for the ball.Argentina has taken a 1-0 lead late in extra time after a Lautaro Martinez off a turnover.Follow along with our live blog as The U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner and Bob Williams will be on the ground from Miami to provide all the latest updates.GOALLLLLLLautaro Martinez nails a right-footed shot into the center of the goal!The goal comes off a turnover forced by Argentina.Giovani Lo Celso assists on the goal.Score: Argentina 1-0 ColombiaCopy linkCopied15 more minutesET. The Copa America continues to stay gridlocked at 0-0 as Argentina attempts to secure the title without star Lionel Messi.If neither team can score in the final 15 minutes of extra time then the game will be decided by penalty kicks.Copy linkCopiedAnalysis during extra time from the standsThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner shares his thoughts as the Copa America final remains tied 0-0 in extra time.”This game has been brutal to watch – and to play in. Reckless tackles have been flying in from all over the place.”The quality on show, however, has been severely lacking.”This game has been brutal to watch – and to play in.”Copy linkCopiedArgentina 0-0 ColombiaET. Colombia’s Camilo Vargas makes a diving save to keep the game tied at 0!Argentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez came so close to a game-changing goal.Copy linkCopiedArgentina 0-0 ColombiaET. 30 minutes of extra time will be played instead of going to penalty kicks immediately.If neither team scores in extra time the Copa America final will be decided on penalty kicks.Copy linkCopiedExtra time in the Copa!We are headed to extra time in the Copa America final after Colombia and Argentina fail to score in regulation.The U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner believes Argentina will have to play better to secure the victory.”Argentina is attempting to be the first South American team to win three consecutive trophies.”They will need to play a hell of a lot better in extra time to create their own piece of history.”And, of course, they will have to do it without Messi.”Copy linkCopiedLionel Messi watches onLionel Messi watches the Copa America final from the sidelines after leaving the game with a non-contact injury.Lionel Messi watches the Copa America final from the sideline after leaving with injuryCredit: GettyArgentina’s Lionel Messi grimaces in pain during the Copa America final soccer match against ColombiaCredit: APCopy linkCopiedPlaying it safeThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner believes both teams will play cautiously in extra time.”Extra-time wasn’t used in the knock-out rounds in the lead-up to the final.”Shame really, this should go straight to penalties because extra time, with heavy legs on both sides, will surely be cautious from both teams.”Copy linkCopiedMore analysis from MiamiThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner gives his take on the Copa America final as it seems surely headed to extra time.”This has been really poor.”Both teams seem to be happy just arguing with the officials rather than trying to get the round thing into the net.”Argentina have been a shadow of the team which some were trumpeting as the world’s new favorite side.”They have never got going.”Copy linkCopiedArgentina 0-0 Colombia85. The game is still nodded at 0 as extra time may be upon us.Argentina is trying to find a way to win without their superstar Lionel Messi.Meanwhile, Colombia is attempting to extend their 28-match unbeaten streak and secure a Copa America final title.Copy linkCopiedAnalysis more than halfway through the second halfThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner shares his thoughts late in the second half of the Copa America final.”Just over 20 minutes left of what has been a very disappointing final so far.”All the madness beforehand soured the evening before a ball was kicked.”The game has been dire and now Messi has exited stage left. Right now, this has penalties written all over it.”Copy linkCopiedOffside!75. Argentina’s Nicolas Tagliafico is called for offsides after nailing in what could’ve been the winning Copa America final goal.Copy linkCopiedLionel Messi is injured on the floor AGAINLionel Messi is down on the pitch again and has signaled for a substitute.Messi fell to the floor with a non-contact injury after running after the ball.Copy linkCopiedArgentina 0-0 Colombia60. Argentina is putting relentless pressure on Colombia and continues to nearly miss taking a lead.Angel Di Maria and Alexis Mac Allister each have their shots blocked in the 57th and 58th minute.Copy linkCopiedAnalysis from Hard Rock StadiumThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner shares his latest thoughts on the Copa America final.”Davidson Sanchez, the Colombian defensive rock, just headed over.”The boys in yellow carry on creating the best chances. They just need to take one.”If they don’t Argentina have the quality to make them seriously pay.”Tempers beginning to boil over here on a typically sultry Floridian night.”Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni had to be held back after Angel Di Maria was fouled. It’s the liveliest Argentina have looked all night.”Score: Argentina 0-0 ColombiaCopy linkCopiedArgentina 0-0 Colombia51. Colombia’s Luis Diaz goes down for a short moment with an injury scare but play continues shortly later.We are eight minutes into the second half and still locked in a 0-0 tie.If the game ends in a tie, extra time will be played.Copy linkCopiedWe are back!The second half has begun with a bang.Colombia’s Santiago Arias nearly nails a right-footed shot from the right side of the box.Argentina misses an opportunity of their own as Angel Di Maria’s left-footed shot is saved.Score: Argentina 0 Colombia 0Copy linkCopiedLionel Messi given extra time to recoverThe U.S. Sun’s Bob Williams shares some insight on Messi’s injury heading into the second half.”Lionel Messi has been given an extra 10 minutes to work on his injured ankle thanks to the extended 25-minute halftime break.”Could prove crucial for Argentina in the second half.”Copy linkCopiedOpinions of the halftime show from inside the stadiumThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner shares some insight on what Shakira’s halftime show meant to Colombia.”Penny for the players’ thoughts as they wait in the locker rooms for this to finish.”The Colombia coach argued beforehand that the extra time taken to stage this “show” could affect his side’s performance.”The regulation break is normally 15 minutes. This will take it to 25 minutes.”Unacceptable really. Let’s see how the second half starts, if it ever starts..”And there she goes. Now, hopefully, a soccer match will break out.”Copy linkCopiedFans praise the halftime showSoccer fans are raving about Shakira’s halftime performance.Shakira is a legend! Ain’t this like the 10x halftime show she’s performed at lol and she killz it everytime.— Hernando (@Hernan_Corte69) July 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedShakira graces the stage!Shakira has opened her Copa America final performance with her hit song Hips Don’t Lie.The minute the music played the crowd erupted.Copy linkCopiedIconic announcer introduces ShakiraBoxing announcer Michael Buffer, who is known for his phrase ‘Let’s Get Ready to Rumble’ announces Shakira.Let’s see if she packs a punch with her halftime show – a first for a Copa America Final.Copy linkCopiedMiami-Dade Sheriff candidate Joe Sanchez makes a statementJUST IN: Miami-Dade Sheriff candidate Joe Sanchez issues statement asking @MayorDaniella to have the county’s public safety director James Reyes step down after tonight’s fiasco at Copa America Final.Reyes is also running for county sheriff. pic.twitter.com/SruDQYf9lZ— Andy Slater (@AndySlater) July 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedFirst-half analysis from inside the stadiumThe U.S. Sun’s Steve Brenner shares his thoughts on the Copa America final first half.”Pretty forgettable first half there.”Colombia looked the more lively, but Martinez only really made one save of note.”Anyway, enough of this soccer nonsense. Here’s the reason everyone is here – it’s Shakira.Score: Argentina 0 Colombia 0Copy linkCopiedMessi is back on the fieldLionel Messi is back on the field and in the game after suffering an injury scare just moments ago.Messi is walking with a clear limp.Copy linkCopied More

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      Watch ridiculous moment Canada goalkeeper is booked for hiding rival’s WATER BOTTLE during Copa America shootout

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      CANADA goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair was booked for hiding his rival’s water bottle at the Copa America.The incident occurred during the third-place playoff as Uruguay claimed third place in Charlotte, USA.Dayne St. Clair hid Sergio Rochet’s water bottle during the penalty shootoutCredit: ConmebolThe Canada keeper was booked by referee Alexis Herrera for his anticsCredit: ConmebolFollowing a 2-2 draw, the match went to a penalty shootout, where St. Clair earned a bizarre yellow card.The 27-year-old’s attempt at mind games saw him throw Sergio Rochet’s water bottle over an advertising hoarding.However, his antics were immediately spotted by the assistant referee, prompting a caution from referee Alexis Herrera.Rochet also stormed over to reclaim his bottle as St. Clair attempted to protest against the yellow.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGoalkeepers often tape instructions and guides for penalty takers to their bottles for a shootout.England’s Jordan Pickford was spotted with such messaging during the Three Lions’ win over Switzerland last weekend.Fans loved St. Clair’s attempt to throw off Rochet on social media, with one commenting: “I respect the s***housery lmao.”Another added: “Concacaf special.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third supporter also wrote: “Canada’s adaptation to Conmebol is complete.”Canada made their Copa America debut this summer, achieving a fourth place finish following their shootout loss to Uruguay.Shocking new footage of Darwin Nunez throwing CHAIR at Colombia fans emerges after Copa America clashNunez facing ban after Uruguay vs ColombiaBy Ken LawrenceDARWIN NUNEZ was involved in a violent brawl with fans after jumping into the stands to ­protect his family following the semi-final.Liverpool’s £64million Uruguay ­forward could now face a lengthy ban after footage captured him swapping punches with Colombian supporters.Security staff tried to hold Nunez back when he climbed a 15-foot wall to confront yobs who were attacking players’ loved ones.The 25-year-old had first threatened to hurl a CHAIR at the hooligans.Videos also showed Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur hurling a bottle into the crowd — which appeared to strike a Uruguayan staff member who had climbed into the stand.Fifa are considering a global ban for any player involved which would mean Nunez and Bentancur miss the start of the Premier League season.Read the full story here.The 15-time winners triumphed 4-3 after misses from Ismael Kone and Alphonso Davies, whose chipped effort hit the crossbar.Uruguay had trailed heading into stoppage time before substitute Luis Suarez snatched a dramatic equaliser.As for St. Clair, he stepped in for regular starter Maxime Crepeau for the playoff.The Minnesota goalkeeper has won five caps since making his international debut in September 2021. More

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      Liverpool and Tottenham blow as Darwin Nunez and Rodrigo Bentancur face GLOBAL BAN for part in Uruguay brawl with fans

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      THIS is the shocking moment Darwin Nunez was involved in a violent brawl with fans after jumping into the stands to ­protect his family.Liverpool’s £64million Uruguay ­forward could now face a lengthy ban after footage captured him swapping punches with Colombian supporters.Darwin Nunez could face a global ban following the chaotic scenes at the Copa AmericaCredit: EPAA brawl broke out following Uruguay’s semi-final defeat to ColombiaCredit: TwitterSecurity staff tried to hold Nunez back when he climbed a 15-foot wall to confront yobs who were attacking players’ loved ones.The 25-year-old had first threatened to hurl a CHAIR at the hooligans.Videos also showed Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur hurling a bottle into the crowd — which appeared to strike a Uruguayan staff member who had climbed into the stand.Fifa are considering a global ban for any player involved which would mean Nunez and Bentancur miss the start of the Premier League season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSNunez was later pictured consoling one of his children on the pitch after being carried from the mayhem after Uruguay’s 1-0 Copa America semi-final defeat by Colombia in North Carolina.Team-mates Jose Gimenez and Ronald Araujo were also involved in the punch-up.Gimenez claimed their families were attacked by an “avalanche” of Colombian fans, stressing: “We had to step in to protect them.“This is an embarrassment, there wasn’t one police officer to control them.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We had to go and defend our own just because people can’t control their drinking.”Police earlier had to restore order in the Bank of America Stadium after fans behind Uruguay’s bench hurled drinks.Watch shocking moment Liverpool and Uruguay star Darwin Nunez fights off fans to save family from ‘drunken supporters’Gimenez added: “This was a disaster. Our families were in the stands with newborn babies.”South America’s governing body Conmebol said: “We strongly condemn any act of violence.”Jefferson Lerma’s first-half goal took ten-man Colombia into Sunday’s final against Argentina.Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur could also face a banCredit: GettyBentancur was seen throwing a bottle into the crowd as the players clashed with Colombia fansCredit: Twitter More

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      Uruguay star Gimenez looks distressed as he gives emotional interview about family being ‘in danger’ at Copa America

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      URUGUAY star Jose Maria Gimenez gave an emotional interview following the crowd trouble in the aftermath of Uruguay’s Copa America exit.Uruguay players and their families clashed with fans following their 1-0 loss at the hands of Colombia last night.Jose Giminez gave an emotional interview following the crowd trouble involving Uruguay players’ familiesCredit: X/ FOXSoccerThe star labelled the situation ‘a disaster’Credit: X/ FOXSoccerStars such as Gimenez, Darwin Nunez and Ronald Araujo could be seen wading into the stands to protect their loved ones during the ugly scenes.And Gimenez, 29, looked distressed and shaken afterwards, as he gave an emotional interview to Fox Soccer.The Atletico Madrid defender said: “Let me say something before they cut you off because they won’t let us speak into the microphone.”They don’t want me to say anything about what’s going on but this is a disaster. Our families are in danger. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We had to get into the stands ASAP to rescue our loved ones with newborn babies.”It was a disaster; there was no police and we had to defend our families.”This is the fault of two or three people who had a few too many drinks and don’t know how to drink.”He added: “I hope that those who are organising this are a little more careful with the with the families and the people around the stadium.Most read in FootballFights broke out in the stands after the semi-final came to an endCredit: GettyGimenez was one of a number of Uruguay players who were caught up in the meleeCredit: GETTYLiverpool striker Darwin Nunez and Barcelona star Ronald Araujo were also involvedCredit: EPA”It’s a disaster because all the matches are the same. Our families are suffering.”Organisers Conmebol released a statement of their own condemning the actions.Shocking new footage of Darwin Nunez throwing CHAIR at Colombia fans emerges after Copa America clashIt read: “Conmebol strongly condemns any act of violence that affects football.”Our work is based on the conviction that football connects us and unites us, through its positive values.”There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field.”We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all their passion into cheering on their teams and having an unforgettable party.”Giminez wasn’t the only one left looking distressed after the melee had come to an end.Liverpool striker Nunez was seen consoling his young son on the pitch after rescuing him from the chaos in the stands.While the 25-year-old has also been videoed throwing a chair towards Colombia fans in the stands.READ MORE SUN STORIESNunez was filmed charging towards the Colombian fans with a foldable chair in his hand but was unable to chuck it into the stands thanks to the intervention of a nearby security guard.The fortunate steps from the staff member made sure nobody was hurt during the interaction and the chair slammed into the side of the stands instead.Darwin Nunez was filmed charging at Colombia fans with a chair in his handCredit: xThe forward tried to throw it towards the fansCredit: xA nearby security guard just managed to get his hand on the chair as Nunez threw itCredit: xHis intervention saw the chair avoid the fans and slam into the stands insteadCredit: xNunez was taken away by his team-matesCredit: x More

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      Shocking new footage of Darwin Nunez throwing CHAIR at Colombia fans emerges after Copa America clash

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      DARWIN NUNEZ threw a chair towards fans following Uruguay’s Copa America exit at the hands of Colombia.The Liverpool striker was seen on video appearing to lob a foldable stool in the direction of Colombia fans inside the Bank of America stadium.Darwin Nunez was filmed charging at Colombia fans with a chair in his handCredit: xThe forward tried to throw it towards the fansCredit: xA nearby security guard just managed to get his hand on the chair as Nunez threw itCredit: xHis intervention saw the chair avoid the fans and slam into the stands insteadCredit: xNunez was taken away by his teammatesCredit: xUruguay bowed out of the competition after a tightly fought 1-0 defeat to the Colombians.But ugly scenes followed in the immediate aftermath with fans, players and their families clashing in the stands.During the scary encounters, Nunez was filmed charging towards the Colombian fans with a foldable chair in his hand.And the 25-year-old then looked as though he was going to throw the chair into the crowd, but was unable to chuck it into the stands thanks to the intervention of a nearby security guard.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe fortunate steps from the staff member made sure nobody was hurt during the interaction and the chair slammed into the side of the stands instead.Other photos and footage showed Nunez leaping into the crowd to protect his family from “drunken” fans.The striker and a number of his teammates waded through the seats in the stands to protect their loved ones from flying drinks and other projectiles. Security eventually intervened and separated Nunez, Jose Gimenez and Ronald Araujo from the rival fans.Most read in FootballFights broke out in the stands after the semi-finalCredit: GettyNunez was caught amongst it as he tried to protect his familyCredit: EPAA number of his Uruguay teammates were also involvedCredit: GETTYNunez comforted his son on the pitch after the meleeCredit: XNunez could later be seen consoling his young son on the pitch afterwards.Atletico Madrid defender Giminez fumed at the lack of security around the players’ family members in an explosive post-match interview.Watch shocking moment Liverpool and Uruguay star Darwin Nunez fights off fans to save family from ‘drunken supporters’He said: “Let me say something before they cut you off because they won’t let us speak into the microphone.”They don’t want me to say anything about what’s going on but this is a disaster.”Please be careful, our families are in the stands, there are little newborn babies.”It was a disaster; there was no police and we had to defend our families.”This is the fault of two or three people who had a few too many drinks and don’t know how to drink.”While the Conmebol federation released a statement condemning the actions.It read: “Conmebol strongly condemns any act of violence that affects football. “Our work is based on the conviction that football connects us and unites us, through its positive values.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field. “We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all their passion into cheering on their teams and having an unforgettable party.”Jose Gimenez gave an emotional interview after the brawlsCredit: GettyColombia advanced to the Copa America finalCredit: GettyNunez and his Uruguay teammates were devastated to exitCredit: Getty More

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      Watch bonkers moment Argentina football chief gets sponged off by personal sweat-wiper during Copa America semi-final

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      ARGENTINA football chief Chiqui Tapia was spotted being patted down by his “personal sweat-wiper” during his country’s Copa America victory over Canada.Lionel Messi scored as the World Cup winners booked their place in Sunday’s final with a 2-0 win over Canada on Tuesday evening.Argentina football chief Chiqui Tapia had a ‘personal sweat-wiper’ at the Copa America semi-finalCredit: X / CristoffedeThe employee sat directly behind the Argentina Football Federation presidentCredit: X / CristoffedeFans were disgusted by the scene that went viral on social mediaCredit: X / CristoffedeBut a moment in the stand caught many football fans’ attention more than the action on the pitch.Argentine Football Association president Tapia, 56, was filmed being patted down by a man behind him.According to Fede Cristofanelli, he is the administrator’s “personal sweat-wiper”.And fans were disgusted by the clip – which showed Tapia having the sweat wiped from the back of his neck.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne said: “This is gross.”Another added: “This is creepy – like a villain out of Austin powers or something.”A third responded: “I wouldn’t have believed this without the video.”And a fourth replied: “I wonder if that goes under ‘other duties as assigned’ in the job description. Super gross.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTapia was voted in as Argentina Football Association president seven years agoCredit: GettyMeanwhile, Argentina’s win over Canada means they have reached a third successive major tournament final.Having won the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, Julian Alvarez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute.Fans want Argentina star De Paul to be awarded Oscar for outrageous theatrics during Copa America win over CanadaAnd shortly after the break Messi, 37, directed an Enzo Fernandez shot into the net to seal Argentina’s place in Sunday’s showpiece match in Florida.They will face either Uruguay or Colombia in the final.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Brazil plagued by ‘curse of the CAT’ as they suffer five major blows including World Cup and Copa America flops

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      BRAZIL’S recent tournament woes continued on Sunday as they were dumped out of the Copa America.It has led to a bizarre “cat curse” theory emerging as fans of the five-time world champions look back to a press conference from 2022 for answers to the series of unfortunate events.Brazil have endured a miserable two years at international tournamentsCredit: GettyVinicius Jr laughed at a cat jumping on the table during a press conference at the 2022 World CupCredit: AFPBrazil’s press officer proceeded to lift up the cat and throw it off the tableCredit: AFPThe act stunned football fans around the worldBrazil were knocked out of the World Cup in the following round by CroatiaCredit: AFPThe moment came at the Qatar World Cup when a cat jumped up on the table as Vinicius Jr faced the media.The Real Madrid superstar found it funny, before Brazil’s press officer astonishingly picked up the cat and threw it off the table.The startled animal landed safely, before fans criticised the man’s treatment of the feline.Since that strange moment, tournament exits and injuries have plagued Brazil over a dismal two-year period.READ MORE ON EURO 2024It has led members of the public to label it the “Canarinha”, the “curse of the cat”.Brazil supporters believe they are unable to recover from the torrid run they are on.They have suffered five different blows since the now infamous Vinicius presser in December 2022.SunSport has taken a look at each one.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWorld Cup exitBrazil were eliminated in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup by CroatiaCredit: GettyDays after the cat was thrown from the table, Brazil were eliminated from the World Cup.Facing off against Croatia, Neymar had given the South Americans an extra-time lead with a superb slalom and finish.Glamorous Colombia fan who went viral for going braless in eye-popping outfit sends message to ‘hottie’ James RodriguezBut Bruno Petkovic then levelled with just three minutes remaining to send the match to penalties.And Croatia won 4-2 on spot kicks as Rodrygo and Marquinhos crucially missed.Neymar’s serious injuryNeymar ruptured his ACL and meniscus in his left knee back in OctoberCredit: GettyIn October last year, Neymar ruptured his ACL and meniscus in his left knee during a clash with Uruguay.He was ruled out of the remainder of Al-Hilal’s season and faced a race to be fit for the Copa America this summer.It was the most serious injury of his career to date, with the initial pain reducing him to tears.U20 World Cup exitBrazil lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals of last year’s U20 World CupCredit: GettyBrazil seemed to be gathering momentum at the U20 World Cup last year when they thrashed Tunisia 4-1 in the last 16.They were eyeing a satisfying tournament victory in the home of bitter rivals Argentina.But it ended in humiliation as they threw away a 2-1 lead in extra time to lose 3-2 to Israel.Failure to qualify for Olympic GamesBrazil have failed to qualify for this summer’s Olympic GamesCredit: AFPBrazil have not even made it to the finals of the Paris Olympic Games after shock defeats in qualification.After navigating their qualifying group, the last stage saw two of Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Venezuela advance to the Olympics in Paris.A shock 1-0 defeat to Paraguay left Brazil in a perilous position, before they got back on track with a 2-1 win over Venezuela.But a 1-0 loss to Argentina in February condemned them to being knocked out before the Games even begin.Copa America exitUruguay dumped Brazil out of the Copa America on SundayCredit: APThe most recent disappointment for Brazil came over the weekend as they were knocked out of the Copa America by Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay.READ MORE SUN STORIESA goalless 120 minutes sent the game to penalties where 10-man Uruguay won 4-2 following misses from Eder Militao and Douglas Luiz.It means Brazil have won just one of the last six Copa Americas to go with their 22-year wait for a sixth World Cup. More

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      Radical call for South American teams to play in Euros and vice versa in shock international tournament shake-up

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      ARGENTINA manager Lionel Scaloni says he wants his team to play in the Euros.The 46-year-old boss is hoping to lead his nation to glory at the Copa America.Radical ideas have suggested that Argentina could earn a spot in the EurosCredit: GettyAnd one European side – possibly England – would be invited to the Copa AmericaCredit: AlamyArgentina boss Lionel Scaloni said he would like to see the crossoverCredit: GettyArgentina won the tournament in 2021 under Scaloni’s leadership before lifting the World Cup a year later.And ahead of La Albiceleste’s Copa America semi-final against Canada tonight, Scaloni shockingly suggested he would like to see South American and European nations participate in each other’s continental competitions.Asked if the Copa America or Euros was harder to win, he said: “I don’t think it’s more difficult from one competition to another. “There are some important teams that have advanced to the semi-finals of the Euros, teams that we faced in the World Cup and it went well for us. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”But that doesn’t mean that we could go to the European Championship and win it. Or maybe yes (we could win the Euros). “I think the level is very even.”I would like a European team to one day be invited to a Copa America to see what it is like to play in a Copa America and the opposite, as well.“But that would be a World Cup, right? So in the end the difficulty is the same. Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEngland’s Harry Kane dilemma laid bare as stats show MAJOR problem before Holland clashGARETH SOUTHGATE has a Harry Kane dilemma ahead of the Euro 2024 semi-final, writes Kealan Hughes.England face the Netherlands on Wednesday night as they bid to reach back-to-back Euros finals with their captain the subject of huge scrutiny.Kane, 30, was taken off in extra-time against Switzerland after a lacklustre performance which saw the striker barely involved in play.In 109 minutes, he completed just EIGHT passes – only one of which was in the final third.Kane also made just four touches in the opposition penalty box, with critics lamenting his failure to get into the area to get on the end of one of Bukayo Saka’s many crosses.Alan Shearer has advised Kane to do his work in the box rather than dropping back.In fact his average position against Switzerland was DEEPER than wing-backs Saka and Kieran Trippier.That might be understandable, with the pair bombing on to provide width.But Kane was also, on average BEHIND Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and even holding midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Declan Rice.Read SunSport’s analysis on Southgate’s Kane dilemma in full.”I don’t think there’s much difference, really. But these are just opinions.”At the World Cup in Qatar, Argentina faced four European teams – three of which were in Group D at Euro 2024.They beat Poland 2-0, Holland 2-2 (4-3 on penalties), Croatia 2-0 and France in the final 3-3 (4-3 on penalties).Watch Ivan Toney score unbelievable volley in England training in ultimate route one goal before Netherlands clash More