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      Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa America

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      FANS are ditching Euro 2024 for Copa America after a bikini-wearing Ecuador fan went viral.The stunning fan was filmed outside the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.A glamorous Ecuador fan was spotted at the Allegiant StadiumCredit: X / thecasualultraShe stunned in an Ecuador-themed bikiniCredit: X / thecasualultraShe has made fans swap the Euros for the Copa AmericaCredit: X / thecasualultraShe was wearing an Ecuador-themed bikini, fishnet tights and football socks.As a result, the supporter has been hailed as the “tricolour godmother” online.The video was taken ahead of the team’s clash against Jamaica.Fans loved the clip as it went viral on social media with many claiming that they would tune into the Copa America over Euro 2024.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne fan posted: “From now on I only follow Copa America.”A second wrote: “Maybe the Copa America is on the same level as the Euro.”A third commented: “Watching the Copa America all the time.”A fourth said: “I’m missing out.”Most read in FootballAnother added: “Copa America is better than the Euros.”Ecuador won the fixture 3-1, with Piero Hincapie, Kendry Paez and Alan Minda netting for the South Americans.Euro 2024’s sexiest players revealedWest Ham striker Michail Antonio scored what turned out to be a historic goal for the Reggae Boyz.The forward bagged the nation’s first-ever Copa América goal in its history.At the Euros, Albania’s “sexiest” fan was spotted at the team’s 2-2 draw with Croatia.Ivana Knoll, who rose to fame at the 2022 World Cup has also been seen sending fans wild.Meanwhile, Poland supporter Marta Barczok has wowed fans with her daring outfits.Poland fan Marta Barczok has stunned at Euro 2024Credit: Instagram/@martabarczok.officialErjona Sulejmani has been in Germany supporting AlbaniaCredit: INSTAGRAM @erjona_sulejmaniIvana Knoll has also made an appearanceCredit: GettyShe has been wearing her regular Croatia outfitsCredit: AP More

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      Watch Lucas Paqueta’s horror penalty as he blazes spot-kick wide in Brazil’s win over Paraguay – but then makes amends

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      LUCAS PAQUETA blazed a penalty wide during Brazil’s Copa America clash with Paraguay last night.The West Ham ace had the chance to bag the game’s first goal in the 31st minute after Brazil were awarded a spot kick after a handball in the box by Andres Cubas.Lucas Paqueta made a hash of his penalty last nightCredit: Premier SportsThe Brazil star stuttered during his run upCredit: Premier SportsThe stuttering run did nothing to fool the goalkeeper who dived the right wayCredit: Premier SportsIt didn’t matter anyway as the effort was blazed well wide of the postCredit: Premier SportsPaqueta put his head in his hands after the missCredit: AFPPaqueta picked up the ball to put the pressure of giving his side the lead in his own hands.But after a stuttering run up, the 26-year-old dragged his shot wide of the post and immediately put his head in his hands.Had he scored it would have been Brazil’s first goal at Copa America after they played out a disappointing 0-0 draw in their opener against Costa Rica.Fans couldn’t believe he had lost his cool and missed the target from just 12-yards out.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn social media one fan wrote: “You’ve got Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo on the field and they let this guy take the penalty. Come on man…”While another added: “You get what you deserve when you engage in a stuttered run up!”And a third joked: “West Ham players taking penalties for Brazil… yeah the game is definitely gone”.Despite missing the target and dipping his head in disappointment, Paqueta was quick to make up for his mistake.Most read in FootballPaqueta set up Vinicius Jr just moments later to give Brazil the leadCredit: AFPThe former Lyon star slipped a clever ball through the lines to Vinicius Jr just four minutes later to set up the opener.And once Vinicius had got the ball rolling, Brazil found their rhythm and took full advantage of a shaking Paraguay outfit. Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa AmericaSavinho doubled Brazil’s lead just eight minuted later, before Vinicius bagged his second of the game to make it 3-0 before half time.There was a small scare in the early stages of the second half when a stunning long range effort from Getafe’s Omar Alderete found the back of the net to claw one back for Costa Rica.But yet another handball in the 65th minute gave Paqueta a chance at redemption with a second spot kick.This time the Hammers’ man hammered home and into the bottom corner.His stuttering run-up helped on the second occasion as Paraguay goalkeeper Rodrigo Morinigo was sent the wrong way.A late red card for Paraguay defender Andres Cubas, for kicking out at Douglas Luiz, meant any chance of comeback was killed and Brazil left the Allegiant Stadium as 4-1 victors.Paqueta is representing Brazil in the US this summer despite being charged with spot-fixing offences by the FA.The attacking midfielder has denied the charges and vowed to clear his name  – but could face a ten-year ban if found guilty.But the Brazilian FA confirmed that he would play for Dorival Junior’s side this summer in spite of the controversy, explaining that he is yet to be banned or found guilty of the charges.A statement released last month read: “Given the facts reported by the English Federation, the CBF, supported by the joint opinion from the Legal and Governance and Compliance Directorates and the Integrity Unit, has decided to maintain the player’s call-up.”Based on the information provided by the FA, it is categorically concluded that the player Lucas Paqueta, despite the behaviour for which he was accused authorising preventive removal (from the squad).READ MORE SUN STORIES”He has not been penalised to date by the prosecuting body authorised to sanction him.”It is right to say that the player is free to perform his professional job until the present moment, the source of his livelihood and that of his family, in a full and unrestricted manner, whether for his club or his country’s national team.”.Paqueta found the back of the net on his second attempt from 12 yardsCredit: APThe West Ham star looked relieved when he celebratedCredit: Getty More

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      Copa America reminds football fans what they’re missing at Euro 2024 as footage of ‘cute’ pre-match tradition goes viral

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      FOOTBALL fans have called for UEFA to bring back a much-loved Euro 2020 feature.Viewers were devastated to discover that the small remote control car, which delivered the match ball to players throughout Euro 2020, did not return at the start of this summer’s European Championship.A yellow remote control van delivered the match ball before kick-offCredit: GettyIt reminded fans of the car that was used throughout Euro 2020Credit: PAMany fans grew to love the silver VW, with one person even suggesting it was the “best thing” about the tournament.However, UEFA is yet to bring it back.Instead, the Copa America has picked up on the gimmick.A small yellow remote control van was seen carrying the match ball ahead of kick-off for Mexico’s match against Jamaica on Monday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd just like they did in 2020, fans absolutely loved it.One person took to social media to write: “This is very cute and I am delighted by it.”Another commented: “This has sadly been missed at The Euros.”While a third wrote: “Should have brought this back for the Euros this year.”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMexico went on to beat Jamaica 1-0 thanks to a second-half strike from Gerardo Arteaga.The Copa America kicked off on Friday and concludes on July 14.SunSport’s Dan King on why Luke Shaw’s return is so big for England More

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      ‘This looks like it’s a parody,’ claim Copa America fans after Venezuela star flattened by referee during ‘chaotic’ game

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      SOCCER fans have been left in stitches after a hilarious incident during Venezuela’s win against Ecuador.Venezuela pulled off a huge upset on Saturday as they beat Ecuador, who are ranked 24 spots ahead of them in the world, 2-1 at Levi’s Stadium.During their 2-1 win against Ecuador, a Venezuelan player ran straight into the referee, knocking him to the ground (right)Credit: Fox SportsVenezuelan players were furious as the game was allowed to continueCredit: Fox SportsManager Fernando Batista was equally frustratedCredit: Fox SportsWith 20 minutes played, and the game goalless, it turned on its head when Ecuador and former West Ham United forward Enner Valencia was sent off.This came after the 34-year-old flew in midfielder Josef Martinez’s chest with his cleats out.Ecuador eventually took the lead just before halftime thanks to Jeremy Sarmiento.Come the 57th minute, Venezuela was pushing, with their eyes so firmly fixed on the prize that one player seemingly wasn’t all too aware of his surroundings.As the ball was crossed into space just outside of the penalty box, at which point a Venezuelan player sprinted to make it, not realizing that the referee stood directly in his way.He ran straight into the back of the official, falling straight to the ground, allowing Ecuador to take over possession.Venezuela manager Fernando Batista immediately headed for the fourth official, demonstrating along with his fellow coaches.The clip quickly landed on X, formerly known as Twitter, where Men In Blazers captioned it, “Copa America is so chaotic the referee is taking players out.”Most read in Football”Venezuela needs to hit the weight room,” one fan said.”VAR determined that the ref must give himself a red card,” commented a second.Goncalo Ramos left limping after being slide tackled by panicking steward after chaotic Euro 2024 clash”This looks like it’s a parody, but I assure you it’s real LOL,” added another.While a fourth asked, “What is the bench even crying about when their player intentionally ran into the ref lol.”Jhonder Cadiz would go on to equalize in the 64th minute before Eduard Bello sealed the win ten minutes later.This marked a landmark win for Venezuela who had only won one game at the competition in their last two attempts.USMNT’s Copa America scheduleGroup C
      Sun 23 June, 6pm ET – vs. Bolivia (AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas)
      Thur 27 June, 6pm ET – vs. Panama (Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia)
      Mon 1 July, 9pm ET – vs. Uruguay (Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri)

      It was also Cadiz’s first-ever international goal and only Bello’s third.Next up for Venezuela is Mexico on June 26 at SoFi Stadium.This will be followed by their final group game against Jamaica on June 30 at Q2 Stadium.READ MORE SUN STORIESEcuador will attempt to get their tournament back on track against Jamaica on June 26 at Allegiant Stadium.The University of Phoenix Stadium and Mexico then await on June 30.Eduard Bello secured the win with a 74th-minute goalCredit: AP More

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      USMNT star Weston McKennie slams lack of atmosphere and agrees with Argentina’s Copa America pitch complaint

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      USMNT star Weston McKennie has joined those critical of the playing conditions at Copa America.The tournament kicked off on Thursday when Lionel Messi’s Argentina beat Canada 2-0 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.Argentina beat Canada 2-0 at the 2024 Copa America opener at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in AtlantaCredit: GettyArgentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was highly critical of the playing conditions in AtlantaCredit: ReutersJuventus and USMNT star Weston McKennie joined the growing complaints regarding conditionsCredit: GettyHowever, while they may have won the game, head coach Lionel Scaloni and Co. were less than thrilled.”With all due respect, thank goodness we won, because otherwise, it would have sounded like a cheap excuse to sit here and say this,” Scaloni said of the new field in Atlanta, via BeinSports.Scaloni criticized organizers for not changing the turf sooner, claiming, ” It’s not good for the spectacle. Sorry.””The stadium is beautiful, and with the synthetic turf, it must be spectacular, but today’s pitch was not suitable for these types of players.”Moreover, Scaloni even said his side had to adjust their tactics because of the conditions of the field.Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also slammed the field, which he labeled “a disaster” and “very bumpy,” via ESPN.”We must improve in this aspect; otherwise, Copa America will always appear at a lower level than the European Championship.”Things have since gotten worse for the tournament’s organizers after McKennie added to the growing critiques of the field conditions on offer.Most read in Football”I think what Martinez was saying was completely true,” he said, as per The Athletic.If this wasn’t bad enough, the Juventus midfielder also called out the poor atmosphere at games.I’m an ex-Premier League star and played with David Beckham – but made all my money in post retirement with $321m business”It’s frustrating, especially as a player,” McKennie said.”You know, whenever you do come here to America you play in a stadium that can fit 70,000 people but 25,000 show up. “You don’t really have an atmosphere. “And then you’re playing on a football field, with laid grass that’s all patchy and it breaks up every step you take. It’s frustrating.”The grass in question was recently laid over the existing synthetic turf, according to NBC Sports.McKennie followed in Martinez’s footsteps when he too compared their playing conditions to those in Europe when speaking with The Athletic.USMNT’s Copa America scheduleGroup C
      Sun 23 June, 6pm ET – vs. Bolivia (AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas)
      Thur 27 June, 6pm ET – vs. Panama (Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia)
      Mon 1 July, 9pm ET – vs. Uruguay (Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri)

      He noted how at the aforementioned Euros “they’re all playing on great fields, great grass, football-specific stadiums, soccer-specific stadiums, and you see the quality of the football.”The USMNT has yet to kick off their tournament, with their first game scheduled for Sunday at 6pm ET when they take on Bolivia.It remains to be seen if/how McKennie’s concerns surrounding the atmosphere prove accurate.As of Saturday afternoon, plentiful tickets remain available starting at just $85.They will be playing at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, where grass has also been laid for the event.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis won’t be the first game held at the home of the Dallas Cowboys this week though, with Chile and Peru having already played out a 0-0 draw there on Friday.Action will return to Atlanta when the USMNT takes on Panama on June 27.McKennie also called out the atmosphere at Copa America gamesCredit: Getty More

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      Lionel Messi paid to share WhatsApp video call with stunning wife Antonela and kids after Copa America win

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      AFTER Lionel Messi captained Argentina to Copa America glory, the first call he made to show off his gold winners medal was to his family. The 34-year-old video called his wife and children after Argentina’s 1-0 win over rivals Brazil in the Copa America final at the Maracana.
      Messi shared his video call via WhatsApp to his social media accounts as part of a paid promotionCredit: GETTY IMAGES
      Messi shows off his gold winners medal to his familyCredit: GETTY IMAGES
      And as part of a paid promotion with WhatsApp, Messi shared the heartwarming exchange with his family on his social media platforms.
      Messi captioned the post on Instagram: “What a special moment!
      “This was just after the final when I was celebrating the Copa America win with my family in a WhatsApp video call.”
      The post has received an eye watering 16.8million views.
      And although the amount Messi earned from the promotion is unclear at this point, the football star reportedly earns £631,000 per Instagram post.
      Football fans have picked up on Messi’s recent activity on social media platforms.
      And believe the star has stepped up his social media game.
      One fan on Twitter said: “From showing off Antonella a little too closely yesterday to doing a sponsored post promoting WhatsApp today, Messi’s Instagram game seems to be picking up.”
      Whilst another suggested the star is trying to make up money elsewhere as he’s reportedly set to take 50 per cent wage cut to stay at Barcelona.
      One Twitter user said: “Doing paid promos to make up for the wage cut. True club legend in my books.”
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      Messi arrived back in Barcelona on Wednesday after enjoying some time away with his family.
      And he is not set to return to training until August 2.
      He will remain a free agent for the time being, but there is increased hope that Barca and Messi’s party can strike a deal despite the club being in a difficult spot financially.

      Lionel Messi’s wife Antonela stuns in micro bikini as the couple swim underwater together More

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      Neymar shows off incredible £10m personalised Mercedes helicopter with initials on tail outside of plush pad

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      NEYMAR wowed his fans on social media by sharing a striking photo of himself pictured in front of his awesome Mercedes helicopter. The Paris Saint-Germain star shared the glamorous image taken in front of his glitzy Rio de Janeiro home with his 155 million followers on Instagram.
      Neymar has been relaxing following Brazil’s loss to Argentina in the Copa America finalsCredit: Reuters
      The PSG star posted a stunning photo on Instagram featuring his state-of-the art personalised Mercedes helicopterCredit: Jam Press
      The world’s most expensive player, 29, looked incredibly relaxed perched on a brick wall in his socks, shorts and a hoodie. 
      The sleek black helicopter can be seen parked on the immaculate lawn of his £7milllion home thought to be 60 miles down the coast of Rio in Brazil.
      And Neymar’s NJR initials are inscribed on the tail of the £10m Mercedes model the player has used for transport to training with his national side. 
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      The striker, who was part of the Brazil team that lost to Argentina in this year’s Copa America final, is said to reside in the stunning area of Mangaratiba. 
      The resort, famous for its port and its white-sand beaches, is said to be the filming location for Sylvester Stallone’s action movie The Expendables. 
      Earlier this year Neymar, who sealed an eye-watering £198million switch to PSG from Barcelona in 2017, was seen turning up to practice with his national side in his Airbus Mercedes helicopter. 
      It is thought the PSG star’s H-145 model is one of the latest produced by the vehicle manufacturer. 
      And Spanish sports outlet AS claims the helicopter is painted with motifs inspired by Batman.
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      It is thought the Dark Knight is one of the forward’s favourite superheroes.
      Neymar, who netted two goals in six appearances at Copa America, was part of the Brazil side beaten 1-0 by Lionel Messi’s Argentina.
      And this month the striker became a PES ambassador and has been announced as of the faces of the football simulation game. 
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      Neymar unveils daring new look after getting blonde dreadlock-style plaits in four-hour procedure More

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      Angel Di Maria shows off new Copa America tattoo as diehard fan gets entire Argentina squad inked on back

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      ANGEL DI MARIA celebrated his Copa America triumph with a marathon tattoo session.The Argentina star scored the winner against Brazil last weekend with a delicate chip at the Maracana.
      Angel Di Maria revealed the work in progress designCredit: Instagram / @angeldimariajm
      But this fan had the ENTIRE squad inked on his back
      To commemorate his country’s first South America crown in 28 years, he added a huge design including the trophy to his leg.
      And the artist worked away for over five hours to create the work, a process which Di Maria detailed on his Instagram.
      The 33-year-old battled through the final with a nasty swollen ankle, which was later revealed on his wife’s social media.
      Not like it impacted his celebrations, as he danced around the famous stadium with Lionel Messi and Co.
      Captain Messi was himself plagued by hamstring issues during the tournament and played through the pain barrier, according to manager Lionel Scaloni.
      However, Di Maria was outdone somewhat by one fan who had the ENTIRE squad inked on his back.
      All 29 players were tattooed onto the supporter, including the date of the final and a celebration message – which covered almost his entire back.
      The art certainly joins the pantheon of football’s maddest tattoos.
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      The Argentine heralded his Copa America glory with a tattooCredit: Instagram / @angeldimariajm
      Di Maria’s marathon session lasted over five hoursCredit: Instagram / @angeldimariajm

      Leeds fan Hayden Kershaw had a mural to Marcelo Bielsa inked on his leg in 2019.
      Lewis Hamilton, competing at this weekend’s British Formula One Grand Prix, features in a tribute on super fan Robert Hogan’s back.
      But Kevin Latto’s 2000 artwork of Mike Tyson surely wins the prize, with his tattoo inexplicably featuring a Scotland flag next to the American boxer.
      This Marcelo Bielsa tattoo is among football’s maddest
      Mike Tyson features on this huge work of art
      Lewis Hamilton’s achievements have also been commemorated in a tattoo
      Messi celebrates and Neymar cries as Argentina win the Copa America 2021 1-0 after Di Maria goal More