Category: gaming

Iconic Football Star Ronaldo Celebrates 39th Birthday Today

                                                                                  Pic Credit: pixabay.com

Feb 5: One of the greatest football players of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo, turns 39 today. The Portuguese superstar has been dazzling fans and breaking records for over two decades, with no signs of slowing down. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of his most iconic moments and achievements, as well as his personal life and philanthropy.

Ronaldo started his professional career at Sporting Lisbon, where he caught the eye of Sir Alex Ferguson, who signed him for Manchester United in 2003. At United, Ronaldo won his first Ballon d’Or, three Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and scored 118 goals in 292 appearances. He also became the first player to win the FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball twice.

In 2009, Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid for a then-world-record fee of 94 million euros. There, he cemented his legacy as one of the best players in history, winning four more Ballon d’Or awards, four Champions League trophies, two La Liga titles, and becoming the club’s all-time top scorer with 450 goals in 438 games. He also became the first player to score in three different Champions League finals, and the first to score more than 50 goals in six consecutive seasons.

In 2018, Ronaldo joined Juventus for 100 million euros, becoming the most expensive player over 30 years old. He has continued to impress in Italy, winning two Serie A titles, a Coppa Italia, and a Supercoppa Italiana. He has also scored 139 goals in 179 games for Juventus and became the first player to score more than 50 goals in the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A.

On the international stage, Ronaldo is the captain and all-time top scorer of Portugal, with 115 goals in 180 caps. He has led his country to their first major trophy, the Euro 2016, where he scored three goals and assisted three more. He also helped Portugal win the inaugural UEFA Nations League in 2019, where he scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against Switzerland. He is currently one goal away from equaling Ali Daei’s record of 109 international goals.

Off the pitch, Ronaldo is a devoted father of four children: Cristiano Jr., Mateo, Eva, and Alana. He is also a generous philanthropist, who has donated millions of euros to various causes, such as children’s hospitals, natural disaster relief, education programs, and cancer research. He has also been involved in campaigns against racism, poverty, hunger, and climate change.

Ronaldo is widely regarded as one of the most influential and popular athletes in the world. He has won numerous awards and honors for his achievements and contributions to sport and society. He has also inspired millions of people around the world with his work ethic, dedication, passion, and humility.

Happy birthday, Cristiano Ronaldo! You are a true legend and an icon of football.

By
Sujata Muguda
Shreyas WebMedia Solutions

How Tether Casinos Offer Stable Thrills

Cryptocurrencies have gained prominence, offering players a new way to enjoy their favourite casino games with added convenience, security, and anonymity.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the online gambling industry has witnessed a significant transformation. Cryptocurrencies have gained prominence, offering players a new way to enjoy their favourite casino games with added convenience, security, and anonymity. Among these digital currencies, Tether (USDT) has emerged as a popular choice among casino enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we explore how the best Tether Casinos provide stable thrills and redefine the online gaming experience.

The Rise of Tether Casinos

What is Tether (USDT)?

Tether, commonly abbreviated as USDT, is a type of cryptocurrency known as a stablecoin. Unlike volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, Tether’s value is closely tied to the US dollar, making it a stable and reliable digital currency. This stability makes it an ideal choice for online casinos, as players can enjoy the excitement of gambling without worrying about rapid price fluctuations.

The Popularity of Tether Casinos

Tether Casinos have gained immense popularity in recent years due to several key advantages they offer:

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Choosing the Best Tether Casino

Factors to Consider

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Top Tether Casinos

While we cannot mention specific casinos, we can recommend searching for Tether Casinos that meet the criteria mentioned above. Conduct thorough research, read player reviews, and compare the available options to make an informed decision.

The Future of Tether in Online Gambling

Tether’s stability and user-friendly nature make it an excellent fit for the online gambling industry. As cryptocurrencies continue to gain acceptance worldwide, it is likely that Tether Casinos will become even more prevalent, offering players a reliable and enjoyable gaming experience.

In conclusion, Tether Casinos have revolutionized the online gambling landscape by providing stability, speed, security, anonymity, and global accessibility. Players seeking a seamless and thrilling gaming experience should consider exploring the world of Tether Casinos.

Thousands flock to Falcon’s Nest fan zone for Saudi Arabia’s 2023 AFC Asian Cup opener against Oman

Doha, Qatar – 18 January 2024: A capacity crowd graced the Falcon’s Nest fan zone in Doha yesterday as Saudi Arabia began their 2023 AFC Asian Cup campaign with hard fought 2-1 victory against Oman.

While the Green Falcons faced off against their Group F rivals at the Khalifa International Stadium, thousands of supporters watched all of the action from within the next-generation facility, launched by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) to provide supporters with exceptional experiences throughout the quadrennial showpiece.

“We’re thrilled that so many fans chose Falcon’s Nest as their preferred destination to watch our men’s national team in action – this is one of the main reasons why it’s open throughout the tournament,” said Yasser Al Misehal, President of the SAFF.

“They want to experience incredible atmospheres within the host nation and Falcon’s Nest offers precisely this. It’s a home of football where brilliant matchday experiences are there for everyone to enjoy.”

Located within Doha’s Katara Cultural Village, Falcon’s Nest can accommodate up to 3,000 fans and will be broadcasting 2023 AFC Asian Cup matches from 4 pm onwards each day, up to the tournament’s conclusion on February 10. Open to fans from all nations, this facility showcases Saudi Arabia’s football history through a series of key features and activations.

While watching group and knockout stage matches in the main screen area, visitors can journey to the ‘Falcon’s Museum’, a dynamic tribute to the rich history of Saudi Arabian football where legendary figures and the most memorable moments in Saudi football history are celebrated.

Another area already proving to be a firm fan favourite is the sports games and challenges area where a trio of skill-testing activations are available to challenge and refine different aspects of one’s football abilities. These include ‘Falcon Speed Strike’ where fans can step up and work on the sheer velocity of their shot, ‘Field of Vision’ where fans can hone the speed and accuracy of passes, and ‘Nest Chip Shot’ where fans can master the art of chipping the ball with expert precision.

Supporters can also visit the ‘Realm of the Impossible’, an interactive experience where visitors can step into the boots of football legends and replicate the most iconic goals in Saudi football history at major tournaments. Additionally, Falcon’s Nest is home to ‘The Falcons Store’ merchandise shop where visitors can purchase customized items including the national team’s jersey.

Falcon’s Nest is open daily from 4 pm to 12 am with various food and beverage options also available.

Saudi Arabian Football Federation unveils ‘Falcon’s Nest’ fan zone in Qatar

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 15 January 2024: With the 2023 AFC Asian Cup officially underway, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has announced the launch of ‘Falcon’s Nest’, an exclusive next-generation fan zone where supporters can enjoy an extraordinary experience while in Qatar for the quadrennial showpiece.

Located within the Katara Cultural Village of Doha (https://t.co/pCUCMV3bGQ), one of the five host cities where group and knockout stage matches are being played throughout the competition, Falcon’s Nest offers an interactive journey into the heart of Saudi football – with a series of key features and activations at its heart.

“Falcon’s Nest is more than just a fan zone – it’s where football fans can explore and relive our history with the beautiful game like never before,” said Yasser Al Misehal, President of the SAFF.

Dedicated to showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich football history and the spirit of the national team, Falcon’s Nest is inspired by ‘Saudi House’, the dedicated pavilion that amassed critical success and enormous fan appraisal during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

“We always want to go above and beyond in terms of fan experiences and we believe visitors will be thrilled with what’s within Falcon’s Nest,” revealed Yasser Al Misehal.

The attractions within Falcon’s Nest include the ‘Falcon’s Museum’, a dynamic tribute to the rich history of Saudi Arabian football, where legendary figures and the most memorable moments in Saudi football history are celebrated. The Falcon’s Museum includes interactive exhibits, treasured memorabilia, and stories of iconic players from yesteryear, connecting the spirited heritage of Saudi football with the aspirations of future generations.

Another attraction sure to be a firm fan favourite is ‘The Realm of the Impossible’, an interactive game where visitors can step into the boots of football legends. Thanks to cutting-edge technology, people can experience the thrill of scoring historic goals for themselves – replicating moments including Saeed Al Owairan’s 1994 wonder goal against Belgium, Shaye Al Nafisah’s iconic 1984 volley against China, and Salem Al Dawsari’s legendary strike versus Argentina in 2022.

Elsewhere within Falcon’s Nest, fans can visit the ‘Falcon’s Academy’ to experience skill-testing activations, each designed to challenge and refine different aspects of one’s football abilities. These include ‘Speed Strike’ where fans can step up and work on the sheer velocity of their shot, ‘Field of Vision’ where fans can hone the speed and accuracy of passes, and ‘Falcon’s Nest Chip Shot’ where fans can master the art of chipping the ball with expert precision.

Additionally, supporters can visit the ‘Falcons Store’, a merchandise shop where visitors can purchase customised items including the national team’s jersey, among many other products.

“Football is our number one passion in Saudi Arabia and the love that our people have and feel for the sport transcends generations,” added Yasser Al Misehal. “People of all ages – men and women, boys and girls – all know about our greatest moments, goals, teams, and players. Now, Falcon’s Nest provides an opportunity to become acquainted in ways few could have imagined just a couple of years ago.”

Saudi Arabia’s men’s national team gets its 2023 AFC Asian Cup campaign underway on Tuesday against Oman at the Khalifa International Stadium, before further Group F matches against Kyrgyzstan at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium and Thailand at the Education City Stadium on January 21 and January 25.

Saudi Arabia’s men’s national team will kick off its 2023 AFC Asian Cup campaign on Tuesday with a match against Oman at Khalifa International Stadium. This will be followed by further Group F matches against Kyrgyzstan at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on January 21, and against Thailand at Education City Stadium on January 25.

Xavi ‘very happy to be in Saudi Arabia’, as Barcelona aim to retain Spanish Super Cup against rivals Real Madrid

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 15 January, 2024: Xavi Hernandez praised the warm welcome that Barcelona have received in Saudi Arabia as his side look to win back-to-back Spanish Super Cup finals against rivals Real Madrid in Riyadh.

This time last year, the Barcelona manager guided his team to a 3-1 El Clasico victory over Real Madrid in the Saudi Arabian capital city. After beating CA Osasuna 2-0 in their semi-final on Thursday, Xavi says Barcelona are determined to retain the Spanish Super Cup and win the competition for the 15th time in their history – more than any other club.

The El Clasico final takes place at Al Nassr’s Al Awwal Park in Riyadh on Sunday January 14 at 10pm Saudi Arabian time.

Speaking at the pre-final press conference, Xavi said: “We are here in Saudi Arabia and all the time everybody respects us, and everybody supports us. We are very happy to be here, and I think Saudi football is going to improve a lot in the next years because they have everything in order to have the best players in the world.

“An El Clasico match with such intensity as this cannot be predicted and its outcome will be played out on the field. We will compete for a cup that we won last year, and last year we played excellently. We will show our opponents that we are hungry and excited to win, but playing against Real Madrid is always a strong match and we will give everything we have to win the title.

“We do not focus on one player in Real Madrid because they have many excellent players, led by Jude Bellingham, who is performing at a great level.”

Barcelona’s goals at Al Awwal Park on Wednesday came from Robert Lewandowski and 16-year-old starlet Lamine Yamal, who came off the bench to net in injury time and seal the result. Xavi has no doubts of Yamal’s talents – regardless of whether he starts or is asked to come on as a substitute.

Xavi said: “Yamal is a great player and we want to see his potential and skills, and this depends on the game situation.”

Real Madrid earned their place in this year’s Spanish Super Cup final by defeating city rivals Atletico Madrid 5-3 in Wednesday’s semi-final in Riyadh, and the Barcelona manager also praised his opposition counterpart Carlo Ancelotti at the press conference.

Xavi said: “Ancelotti is one of the best managers in the world and has succeeded in all the places in which he has coached – he is a role model for coaches and a great coach.”

This year’s Spanish Super Cup – the fourth time the tournament has been played in Saudi Arabia – is the latest illustration of the Kingdom’s commitment to host the very best international events across all sports, with football at the forefront.

Last year’s Barcelona win was preceded by Real Madrid beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in Riyadh in 2022 and Los Blancos defeating Atletico Madrid on penalties in Jeddah in the first tournament on Saudi soil in 2020.

While enabling the Kingdom to build relationships and showcase the unique football culture to the world, hosting events like these provides new opportunities for the Saudi people to be inspired, pursue dreams, and realise potential.

The Spanish Super Cup kick-starts an incredible year-round schedule of international sports in the Kingdom, with football, motorsport, tennis, esports, combat sports, golf, and equestrian events all locked in for 2024.

Carlo Ancelotti salutes football loving Saudi Arabia, as Real Madrid prepare for Spanish Super Cup final versus Barcelona

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 15 January, 2024: Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid manager, says the club have thoroughly enjoyed their time in “football loving Saudi Arabia” – and anticipates Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup 2024 final in Riyadh versus Barcelona being watched across the globe.

The El Clasico final takes place at Al Nassr’s Al Awwal Park in Riyadh – the home of former Real Madrid hero Cristiano Ronaldo – on Sunday January 14 at 10pm Saudi Arabian time.

Real Madrid booked their place in this year’s Spanish Super Cup final by defeating city rivals Atletico Madrid 5-3 in Wednesday’s semi-final in the Saudi Arabian capital city.

Speaking at the pre-final press conference, Ancelotti said: “Saudi Arabia is a football-loving country and we have thoroughly enjoyed it here. The atmosphere from the fans will be important. The El Clasico match is important, and the whole world is watching it. There are nerves, but we are excited about the match, and there will be a great physical effort from the players.

“We trained excellently, the team is ready, and we are prepared for this match in a big way, and we are excited for the final.

“We have played against Barcelona many times and we have a lot of experience and know that they have a distinguished midfield and work well.”

Real Madrid right-back Dani Carvajal netted the all-important third, equalising goal with minutes remaining against Atletico Madrid that took the semi-final to extra time. His performance was also rewarded with the man of the match prize.

Ancelotti said: “Carvajal is in good condition. He rested and trained excellently, and I think he will participate tomorrow.”

Extra time was decided in Real Madrid’s favour against their city rivals through the help of the considerable impact of substitutes Joselu and Brahim Diaz. Joselu pressurised Atletico defender Stefan Savic into an own goal, while Diaz ran from his own half to score the fifth goal.

Ancelotti said: “Substitutes are important and influential players if requested, and this depends on the situations and circumstances of the match. As you can see in Vinicius’ case, we replaced him because of the minor condition that happened to him, and we have a fully equipped reserve bench, and they have high experience and skills.”

Confirming Kepa Arrizabalaga will be in goal for the El Clasico final, Ancelotti said: “Kepa played an important match against Atletico and deserved to participate with us and deserves to start tomorrow.”

He added: “We used a defensive strategy against Atletico Madrid, and this is the way Atletico plays, and depending on the direction of the opposing team, there will be changes to our style.”

Barcelona earned their place in the final by defeating Osasuna 2-0 on Thursday night at Al Awwal Park through goals from Robert Lewandoski and Lamine Yamal to set up the mouthwatering El Clasico Spanish Super Cup final in Riyadh.

This is the second year running that the two have met in the final in the Saudi Arabian capital city. Last year, Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-1 in the fourth time that the Spanish Super Cup has been played in Saudi Arabia. In 2020, Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid on penalties in Jeddah, and won the trophy again two years later by beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in Riyadh.

This year’s Spanish Super Cup is the latest illustration of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to host the very best international events across all sports, with football at the forefront.

While enabling the Kingdom to build relationships and showcase the unique football culture to the world, hosting events like these provides new opportunities for the Saudi people to be inspired, pursue dreams, and realise potential.

The Spanish Super Cup kick-starts an incredible year-round schedule of international sports in the Kingdom, with football, motorsport, tennis, esports, combat sports, golf, and equestrian events all locked in for 2024.

InnoVision Marketing Group Named Agency of Record for San Diego Mojo, New Professional Women’s Volleyball Team

SAN DIEGO – January 13, 2024 – InnoVision Marketing Group, a leading global, bilingual marketing agency, is proud to announce its selection as the official Agency of Record for the San Diego Mojo, an exciting new professional women’s indoor volleyball team set to make waves in San Diego.

San Diego Mojo, poised to bring elite-level women’s volleyball to the vibrant sports scene of Southern California, has entrusted InnoVision Marketing Group with introducing them into the San Diego market. As the Agency of Record, InnoVision will play a pivotal role in introducing the brand to the community and enhancing the team’s brand presence through strategic media buying, traditional advertising, design, marketing and collateral development for games and events.

With a proven track record of delivering innovative and results-driven marketing solutions, InnoVision Marketing Group is thrilled to collaborate with San Diego Mojo. The agency’s expertise in creating dynamic and engaging campaigns will be instrumental in establishing San Diego Mojo as a prominent force in the professional women’s volleyball landscape.

“We believe InnoVision Marketing Group’s strategic approach and creative vision align perfectly with our goals for San Diego Mojo,” says Billy Johnson, President of the San Diego Mojo. “We’re confident that this partnership will not only elevate our brand but also contribute to the growth and popularity of women’s volleyball in San Diego and beyond.”

InnoVision Marketing Group will focus on crafting compelling marketing strategies that resonate with the diverse San Diego community and attract a broad audience to support San Diego Mojo. The agency’s role encompasses media planning and buying, traditional advertising campaigns, creative design for promotional materials, and overall marketing support to enhance the team’s visibility and connection with fans.

“We’re honored to be chosen as the Agency of Record for San Diego Mojo,” says Alanna Markey, Sr. Vice President/General Manager of InnoVision Marketing Group. “Our team is buzzing with excitement to leverage our experience and creativity to elevate the brand of San Diego Mojo and contribute to the success of women’s volleyball in the region. This will also add a dynamic new sports team to our growing diverse client roster.”

San Diego Mojo and InnoVision Marketing Group are gearing up for an exciting season and cannot wait to introduce the power of women’s sports and fans can anticipate a host of engaging campaigns and initiatives as the partnership unfolds. For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Bianca@TeamInnoVision.com or visit TeamInnoVision.com.

Real Madrid Striker Joselu Praises Incredible Riyadh Fans, Believes They Can Propel Us to Spanish Super Cup Triumph

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 12 January, 2024: Real Madrid striker Joselu believes the support of fans in Riyadh can help spur Los Blancos to Spanish Super Cup 2024 success on Sunday night.

On Wednesday, the sold-out 25,000-capacity Al Awwal Park – the current home of former Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo – saw Carlo Ancelotti’s side come from behind to beat city rivals Atletico Madrid 5-3 in an incredible semi-final.

Joselu, who came on as a substitute, was instrumental in the win after pressurising Atletico defender Stefan Savic into conceding the fourth goal in the final minutes of extra time.

The Spanish striker, praised as “a difference maker” by manager Ancelotti, celebrated the goal with a knee slide in front of the loud and adoring fans – and believes their fervent backing in Sunday’s final could be vital.

Joselu said: “It’s very important to be here with the Real Madrid fans because we saw 90% of the fans in the stadium were wearing white shirts – and for us that’s very important. The atmosphere feels like it’s home and that is very important for us.

“A title is always important for this club, and we will try to win the trophy for them and the club on Sunday.”

Like all good strikers, Joselu is attempting to claim the goal that was officially credited to Savic. The Real Madrid No.14 got a touch on Dani Carvajal’s sublime cross which then hit the Montenegrin defender and went in.

Joselu said: “I aimed to the goal. I then lost the ball, I didn’t know where it was going, but I am keeping the goal to myself. The pass I received was amazing and the only thing missing is that the goal is credited to me. I am here to support the team in everything I can. I obviously want to score goals and this one was quite special because it unlocked a very tight scoreboard and gave us the pass to the final.”

Sunday’s final will see Real Madrid play either Barcelona in an El Clasico clash, or CA Osasuna. That semi-final takes place at 10pm on Thursday at Al Awwal Park. Sunday’s final kicks off at the same time at the same venue.

Joselu, on loan from Espanyol and who previously played for Newcastle United and Stoke City, said: “I don’t mind if we play against Barcelona or Osasuna. I have scored goals against the two teams, so I am looking forward to the match on Sunday. We have done our job; we now have to rest and give it all on Sunday and play as good or better than Wednesday.

“The fans had a good time because they want to see the teams score. We wanted to get to the final. I think our team has done a fantastic job.”

This is the fourth time that the Spanish Super Cup has been played in Saudi Arabia. In 2020, Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid on penalties in Jeddah, and won the trophy again two years later by beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in Riyadh. Last year, the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh witnessed a fascinating El Clasico final as Barcelona triumphed over Real Madrid.

As has become accustomed, the four-team Spanish Super Cup 2024 features the winners and runners up of La Liga and Copa del Rey. This year’s Spanish Super Cup is the latest illustration of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to host the very best international events across all sports, with football at the forefront.

While enabling the Kingdom to build relationships and showcase the unique football culture to the world, hosting events like these provides new opportunities for the Saudi people to be inspired, pursue dreams, and realise potential.

The Spanish Super Cup kick-starts an incredible year-round schedule of international sports in the Kingdom, with football, motorsport, tennis, esports, combat sports, golf, and equestrian events all locked in for 2024.

adidas and Roshn Saudi League Unveil New Partnership

Riyadh, 10 January 2024 – adidas and the Saudi Pro League (SPL) today unveiled a new partnership to promote football in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and drive sustained development in the years ahead. Commencing in February 2024, the partnership will see adidas become the Saudi top flight’s official match ball supplier, enhancing the Roshn Saudi League’s (RSL) global interest and commercial attractiveness while supporting continuous growth throughout the Saudi football pyramid.

As per today’s announcement, RSL teams will play with the adidas ‘Oceaunz’ ball for the remainder of the 2023/24 season, from February to May. adidas will then provide an exclusive match ball featuring an upgraded colour palette for the 2024/25 season, beginning next August.

Bilal Fares, General Manager of adidas EMC, said: “adidas is proud to partner with the Saudi Pro League. The partnership builds on the brand’s wider ambitions to increase sports participation across the Kingdom in line with Saudi Vision 2030. We believe that through sport, we have the power to change lives and we’re thrilled to support the league’s strategy in enhancing the football sector, leaving a positive impact in the Kingdom.”

Saad Allazeez, Vice Chairman and interim CEO of the SPL added: “Our partnership with adidas represents a significant next step towards elevating football in Saudi Arabia. By aligning with such a recognised and respected global sportswear giant, the league enhances its international visibility and benefits from greater opportunities to attract talent, inspire investment, and foster growth that positively impacts football culture and the game’s national ecosystem. This collaboration can help reshape the Kingdom’s football landscape and we’re excited to be working closely with adidas moving forward.”

The deal comes at an exciting time for football in Saudi Arabia, with the RSL experiencing significant increases in global viewership and match attendance following an influx of world-class players.

Moreover, the partnership builds on adidas’ wider ambitions within the Saudi football sector. Having already signed a long-term deal with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the brand has also enhanced its regional ambassador portfolio, signing some of the Kingdom’s top men’s and women’s national team players, including Farah Jefry, Saud Abdualhamed, Yasser Al Shahrani, and Mohammed Alowais.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone: Spanish Super Cup semi-final different to La Liga victory over Real Madrid

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 10 January 2024: Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone says the Spanish Super Cup semi-final derby versus Real Madrid in Saudi Arabia will be different to their 3-1 La Liga triumph in September – but he still intends to win.

The 40th edition of the historic Supercopa de España (Spanish Super Cup) takes place at Al Nassr’s Al Awwal Park in Riyadh from January 10 – 14. Atletico Madrid face city rivals Real in the first semi-final of the four-team competition on Wednesday, before Barcelona play CA Osasuna the following night. The final takes places on Sunday, with all matches kicking off at 10pm Saudi Arabian time.

Atletico achieved a memorable victory over Real earlier this season thanks to an Alvaro Morata double and Antonine Griezmann goal, and the Spanish Super Cup semi-final marks the first match between the two clubs since Simeone’s side triumphed. The Madrid sides have also been drawn together in the Copa del Rey Round of 16, with that match to be played next week.

However, speaking at the Spanish Super Cup 2024 pre-tournament press conference, Simeone said: “The league is different from the cup and the Super Cup; all tournaments are different and have their unique circumstances. We play consistently well and are aware that we are playing against a great club like Real Madrid.

“In previous matches, we didn’t have some players – they did not participate in the past matches. This will be a different match and differs from a league match.

“I have the utmost respect for all clubs, and we are here today to compete for the win.”

Simeone was joined at the press conference in Riyadh by his midfielder, and fellow Argentine, Rodrigo De Paul, who believes mental strength will be vital in Atletico Madrid’s quest to earn another victory over Real Madrid.

De Paul said: “These matches always have significant importance on the mental side, and one must be well prepared for them. But for us, personally, we enjoy these matches and perform well.

“We are always happy to play in front of our fans and on our home ground, but when we play away, we must perform and play as usual. We are aware and knowledgeable about the level we must present in Wednesday’s match.

“We have no problem playing multiple matches against Real Madrid – as I mentioned, these matches require high mental and physical preparation.”

Simeone added of De Paul: “Rodrigo is an outstanding player and makes a difference in matches and plays in an important position, always proving himself in matches. He is considered a player who grows and develops well, and he has proven that in previous matches.”

Saudi Arabia is welcoming world-class players, iconic clubs, and international fans as part of its long-term partnership with the Royal Spanish Football Federation. The previous three editions of the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia saw tens of thousands of fans in attendance with matches broadcasted all around the world. Like always, this year the Spanish Super Cup is being contested by the winners and runners-up of the Copa del Rey and La Liga.

With an exciting tournament in store for fans, this year’s Spanish Super Cup is the latest illustration of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to host the very best international events across all sports, with football at the forefront.

Over 2.6 million individuals under 30 are actively engaged in football, a number that continues to expand. The passion of Saudi people and the young population is the driving force behind the Kingdom bringing such prestigious tournaments.

While enabling the Kingdom to build relationships and showcase the unique football culture to the world, hosting events like these provides new opportunities for the Saudi people to be inspired, pursue dreams, and realise potential.

The Spanish Super Cup kick-starts an incredible year-round schedule of international sports in the Kingdom, with football, motorsport, tennis, esports, combat sports, golf, and equestrian events all locked in for 2024.