European football returned this past weekend with the start of the 2022-23 season, and we were treated to some stunning moments across the continent like Lionel Messi's bicycle kick, an insane half-volley from France and a brace for Erling Haaland on
Soccer is ever-moving. Just as soon as one season end, the next begins, and with it comes an overwhelming supply of games, moments and, most importantly, memes from the past week. Here, we make sure that you never miss a moment of the greatness that goes on in just 280 characters. This is “This Weekend On Soccer Twitter.”
While Lionel Messi captured many of the headlines from France this weekend thanks to his bicycle-kick goal against Clairmont, he was nowhere near scoring the best goal in France this weekend. That honor goes to Guingamp winger Jérémy Livolant, who scored a genuinely ridiculous effort from the better part of 40 yards in Ligue 2.
Defenders have an old saying: "The ball can pass you or the opponent, but never both at the same time." It's a philosophy, a way of life. And Giorgio Chiellini is one of its highest priests.
Sometimes, we forget just how talented professional soccer players really are. Critics write off league’s outside of Western Europe as “farmer’s leagues” absent of any technical skill or prowess, and they could not be more wrong.
As proof, I bring you La Liga Venezolana. Here, apparently, the world’s best soccer players have all gone into hiding. At least that is what it looks like from this training video released by Caracas FC, which pairs some impressive technique with the most immaculate vibes I have ever seen.
Sacramento Republic FC might have the coldest soccer player in the world on its team. Ice runs through this man’s veins and he fears nothing. If you don’t believe me then one look at this Maalique Foster penalty kick vs. Sporting KC in the U.S. Open Cup semifinal might change your mind.
Let’s set the stage really quick.
Gerard Piqué was persona non grata Saturday night in El Clásico at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas with Real Madrid supporters naturally jeering him, Barcelona fans only too aware of the problems caused by his massive salary and neutrals showing their support for Shakira following her recent split with the Barça defender.
American fans are discovering that USMNT left back Antonee "Jedi" Robinson has several talents beyond the field. His skill at left back is already known, a video of him playing piano surface in 2021 and now there’s a viral video of him blowing his Fulham teammates’ minds with a card trick.
A Jedi mind trick.
Mexican goalkeeper Memo Ochoa could have a successful NFL career ahead if one day he decides to quit soccer. Or at least that's the conclusion after seeing a clip where Ochoa shows off his impressive skills kicking field goals.
Currently training alongside Club América in Houston for a friendly game versus Manchester City (Wednesday 8:30 p.m. ET), Ochoa set aside time to practice field goals with former Texans punter Shane Lechler. And the result was astonishing.
Celebrating the release of the next-gen adidas X Speedportal cleats, the German brand has opted for something different — but entirely fitting — by showcasing the fastest boot "in all dimensions" with a little help from the portal hopping title characters of Rick and Morty.
If you've seen a single episode of the TV show, you'll know where this is headed. As far as boot advertisements go, it's up there with the best of them.