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The Portuguese referee who stood his ground against Messi — and has zero regrets
Messi fuming, finger pointed, demanding respect. The video went around the world — but João Pinheiro slept just fine.
Lisandro and Mac Allister held up the Falklands banner — then beefed up security at home
Argentina 2–1 England, on the pitch in Atlanta, and a banner that reopened a wound more than four decades old. The place in the World Cup final came wrapped in a provocation that went far beyond football — and the Argentine players who live in England felt the…
The referee at the center of Argentina vs Switzerland breaks his silence and explains Embolo's red card
The World Cup has a way of doing this: one refereeing decision becomes the talking point for weeks. The quarterfinal between Argentina and Switzerland was exactly that. Now, Portuguese referee João Pinheiro has decided to speak.
Cucurella tattooed his World Cup-winning manager's face — and De la Fuente loved it
Some promises are made in the heat of the moment and forgotten by the next morning. Marc Cucurella is not that kind of person.
Zidane takes France, Italy implodes, and Brazil has zero chance of reaching the quarters — what on earth is happening in world football
World football is in full meltdown — and Brazil hasn't even made the quarter-finals yet.
The Goal That Stopped the World: Sidny Lopes Cabral Named Best Goal at the World Cup
"When I looked up and saw the ball heading for the top corner, I thought: what did I just do?" Those are Sidny Lopes Cabral's own words — and they say it all.
Francisco Conceição is back from the World Cup — and Manchester United are already in the queue
The World Cup ink has barely dried and the transfer market is already boiling over. Francisco Conceição has returned from the tournament and, according to The Guardian, Manchester United want to seize the moment and prise him away from Juventus.
Maldini lasted 16 days at Italy's federation — and now the Azzurri chaos may have a name: Mancini
Sixteen days. That was all it took for Paolo Maldini to realise that rebuilding Italy would be far more complicated than it looked.
Klopp Takes Germany's Reins — and Brazil Should Be Watching
Germany is back — or at least trying to be. After three consecutive World Cup eliminations, the German federation decided it was time for a radical shake-up: Julian Nagelsmann out, Jürgen Klopp in. The most famous manager on the planet has now been handed the…
The World Cup final referee retired a week later — and his career is a story all its own
Seven days after officiating the most important final in world football, Slavko Vincic hung up his whistle. The 46-year-old Slovenian, who refereed the showdown between Spain and Argentina on the 19th, announced his retirement this Monday through the Slovenian…
Mbappé opens up after elimination: "It hurts, and it will hurt for some time"
Kylian Mbappé made no attempt to hide it. After France finished the Americas World Cup in fourth place, the number 10 took to social media and wrote what many were already feeling: "It hurts, and it will hurt for some time."
Mbappé opens his heart after fourth place: 'Maybe we owed you a more beautiful ending'
The World Cup ended a week ago, but the pain hasn't gone away. Kylian Mbappé took to Instagram to speak directly to the French people — and the message was one of those that stays with you.
World Cup's Best Player Has a Preferred Destination — and Real Madrid Want to Pounce
Rodri lifted the World Cup trophy as the tournament's best player. Now, his future may be about to change address — and Real Madrid want to be that address.
Scaloni breaks his silence after the final — and fires back at Argentina's critics
One week. That is how long it took Lionel Scaloni to put into words what he felt after watching Argentina lose the 2026 World Cup final to Spain, 1–0, in New Jersey.
Wesley returned to the pitch — but his Roma debut turned into a nightmare
The news was good: Wesley was back. The full-back had been cut from the Brazilian national team through injury, missing the World Cup before it had even kicked off. Now, with Roma beginning their 2026/27 pre-season, it was time to turn the page.
Casemiro Makes His Inter Miami Debut 20 Days After Brazil's Elimination — But the Night Belonged to a Terrifying Berterame Scare
Casemiro's Inter Miami debut was supposed to be the story of the night. And it was — but it had to share the spotlight with a moment that sent a chill through everyone inside the stadium.
World Cup's Best Player Rodri Is Now PSG's Top Target — and Luis Enrique Has Already Made the Call
He won the World Cup. He took home the best player award. And now Rodri has become the hottest name on the European transfer market.
Messi Showed Up at a Fourth-Division Game After the Lost Final — and Became the Biggest Story of the Day
Losing a World Cup final to Spain 1–0 hurts. But Lionel Messi tried to keep that pain away from the spotlight — and it didn't work.
Frenkie de Jong tears ACL at the World Cup — and Barcelona will be compensated by FIFA
The 2026 World Cup has already claimed its first major casualty for the Netherlands — and it's a painful one. Frenkie de Jong ruptured the cruciate ligaments in his knee during the tournament while representing the Dutch national side, and faces a lengthy spel…
Liverpool's villain could be back — this time on Klopp's side in Germany
Jürgen Klopp is taking over the German national team, and he brings with him a story Liverpool supporters are unlikely to forget any time soon. According to Trivela, there is growing expectation that a figure marked by painful memories for the Reds could resur…
World champion Rodri has an uncertain future at City — what would he bring to Real Madrid?
World champion with Spain and voted the best player at the World Cup — so where does Rodri go from here?
Yan Diomandé shone at the World Cup — and Real Madrid are ready to pay €90 million for him
Nineteen years old, four starts at the World Cup, and a €90 million offer already on the table. Yan Diomandé wasted no time becoming one of the hottest names in the transfer market.
The 40-Year-Old Keeper Who Stole the World Cup Show Is Heading to the Estadio Monumental
Forty years old, without a club, and with the entire world knowing his name. That was Vozinha's situation after the 2026 World Cup — and Colo-Colo moved fast enough to take advantage.
Six Days After the World Cup Final, Otamendi Is Already Back on the Pitch
The ink on the trophy hasn't even dried and Nicolás Otamendi is already ready to play. Just six days after featuring in the World Cup final for Argentina against Spain, the centre-back appears on River Plate's squad list for Saturday's clash against Barracas C…
Iraola arrives at Liverpool with a clear philosophy: what the Spaniard has promised Anfield
Andoni Iraola did not arrive at Liverpool simply to pick a starting eleven. The Spanish manager, who takes charge at Anfield in this new chapter for the club, made it clear from the very start of pre-season in the United States that his vision stretches far be…
Frenkie de Jong confirms knee injury suffered at the World Cup — and Barcelona are already feeling his absence
It wasn't only Barcelona who lost Frenkie de Jong at the start of the season. The Netherlands will also find out what it's like to compete at a World Cup without one of their best players at full fitness.
The Portuguese Coach Who Went Further Than Portugal at the 2026 World Cup
Portugal went out in the round of 16. Morocco made the quarter-finals. And sitting on the Moroccan bench was a Portuguese man with a smile on his face.
Klopp Takes Over a Germany in Crisis — and the Road to 2030 Already Has Names and Hard Choices
Jürgen Klopp was announced yesterday as Germany's new head coach — and the task could hardly be heavier: dragging the four-time world champions out of one of the deepest crises in their recent history, according to UOL Esporte.
Tiago Gouveia packs his bags for Mexico — and won't be coming back to Benfica
Tiago Gouveia's time at Benfica is over — and this time there's no going back.
Paredes Leaves His Argentina Future Up in the Air After Final Brawl: 'It Needs to Be Discussed'
The World Cup final still hurts — and Leandro Paredes isn't pretending otherwise.
Frenkie de Jong tears ligament at the World Cup — and now Barcelona and the Netherlands are sweating
The World Cup has left Frenkie de Jong with a hefty bill to pay. The Dutch midfielder suffered a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee while representing the Netherlands at the tournament — and the injury is already making itself felt off the pitch…
Paredes admits Spain were better — and leaves his Argentina future up in the air
The pain is still raw. Leandro Paredes returned to the pitch for Boca Juniors on Wednesday, but the World Cup final against Spain is still weighing on him — and the Argentine made no attempt to hide it.
Guardiola Said No to Italy — and Now Pirlo Could Be the One to Save the Azzurri
Italy tried everything. They offered an astronomical salary, promised complete freedom to shape the role, and even made exceptions that rarely exist in football. Pep Guardiola listened, thought it over — and said no.
Klopp arrives as Germany boss with a warning: 'I'll walk away if you don't leave my family alone'
Jurgen Klopp had barely settled into the Germany manager's chair before he delivered a warning nobody expected to hear at his first press conference. "If you misbehave and don't leave my family alone, I'll leave," he said, without mincing words. Welcome back t…
Memphis was a bench player at the World Cup, went out before the Round of 16 — and Corinthians still has no idea what to do with him
The World Cup did nothing to help Memphis Depay win over Corinthians. The Dutchman came on only as a second-half substitute in all three of the Netherlands' group-stage matches and played no part in their elimination by Morocco in the Round of 16. For those wh…
Why Michael Olise Became One of the Most Valuable Players After the World Cup
Spain lifted the trophy, but the transfer market didn't wait for the final whistle before redistributing value. According to Marca, drawing on Transfermarkt data, the World Cup left a list of winners that stretches well beyond the Spanish dressing room — and M…
Over 81,000 People Want the World Cup Final Replayed — and the Spaniards Who Signed Will Make You Laugh
The World Cup final is over — but for Gisela Sánchez, it isn't finished yet.
Tapia tells Argentines to drop the conspiracy theories: 'Spain were better, they beat us fair and square'
The World Cup final left an open wound in Argentina — and, instead of grief, theories were born. The FBI, threats to family members, outside pressure. Everything was invoked to explain what happened on the pitch. But AFA president Chiqui Tapia decided to put t…
The Brazilian already appearing on lists of ones to watch for the 2030 World Cup
Brazil hasn't even finished dreaming about a sixth title in 2026, and already one of its gems is being flagged as a name to watch for the 2030 World Cup.
Fabián Ruiz Admits He Dreams of the Ballon d'Or After a Standout Season
"The truth is, yes." With that blunt answer, Fabián Ruiz left no room for doubt: the PSG and Spain midfielder wants the Ballon d'Or — and he has no shame in saying so.
Messi Was the World Cup's Best Player Even Without the Title — and IFFHS Has the Numbers to Prove It
Argentina fell in the final. Spain lifted the trophy. Rodri took the tournament's Golden Ball. And yet, when IFFHS ran the numbers, the name that came out on top was Lionel Messi's.
Tim Vickery Settles the Pelé vs Messi Debate — and the 2026 World Cup Tipped the Scales
Some debates never die — but Tim Vickery decided to give his definitive answer. The British journalist, one of the leading voices on South American football, went straight to the point on the age-old Pelé vs Messi war: "If I have to choose one player it's him,…
Tigre went to Montevideo, won 3-0 and unfurled the Malvinas banner — just like the national team
It wasn't the Argentine national team. But the script was exactly the same.
Gavi Was Attacked by Paredes in the Final — and Still Says: "I Don't Think He Should Be Suspended"
World champion, attacked on the pitch, and still willing to defend his attacker. Gavi is not exactly what you'd expect from a victim.
Argentina is in the 2026 World Cup final — and Olé already published the book to mark the moment
The World Cup isn't even over and Argentina has already become a book. Olé announced the release of **"Amor a la Scaloneta"**, a special edition covering the most glorious cycle in the history of the Argentine national team — from Scaloni's debut in a friendly…
Tim Vickery's Warning: South America May Be Entering a Dark Age in World Football
For the first time at a World Cup held in North America, no South American side lifted the trophy. For Tim Vickery, a columnist who specialises in the continent's football, that fact is no coincidence — it's a symptom.
Ancelotti Called Danilo a 'Sunday-League Player' — and Left the Botafogo Midfielder Out of Brazil's Biggest Game
Brazil's round-of-16 exit to Norway already hurt. Now, the reason Danilo Santos was left on the bench hurts even more.
Enzo Fernandez says Argentina represented the country 'in the best way possible' — but FIFA is investigating what happened after the final
Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain 1–0 after extra time in New Jersey. But Enzo Fernandez does not want that to be the group's only legacy.
The announcer called Yéremy Pino 'the Cristiano Ronaldo who won the World Cup' — and the dig went viral
Spain won the World Cup in the United States. Two million people took to the streets of Madrid. And in the middle of all that euphoria, one line from an announcer became the talking point of the day.
Spain are world champions: the collective that silenced Messi at the greatest World Cup of all time
The greatest World Cup of all time ended with a one-goal margin and a football lesson. Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time and lifted the trophy — even as Lionel Messi shone individually throughout Scaloni's entire campaign.
Portugal Without Cristiano Ronaldo Faces a Problem That Goes Beyond the Pitch
Six World Cups. An entire career devoted to a dream that never arrived. And now, after elimination by Spain in the round of sixteen, Cristiano Ronaldo announced what many had long suspected: his farewell to the Portuguese national team at the World Cup.
Neuer bows out with a defeat and zero regrets: the end of an era for Germany
Forty years of history, two World Cups, 23 appearances in the tournament. And the end came in the worst possible way: on penalties, against Paraguay. Manuel Neuer hung up his gloves for the German national team after a 2026 World Cup that ended far sooner than…
Ibrahimovic on Paredes in the final brawl: "I would have headbutted him and got sent off"
Zlatan Ibrahimovic watched the chaos unfold on the pitch at MetLife Stadium and couldn't keep quiet. Working as a pundit at the World Cup, the Swede went straight for the jugular when it came to Leandro Paredes — one of the central figures in the all-out brawl…
Spain Won the World Cup — and Now All of China Wants to Go to Barcelona
The final whistle was still echoing when China was already planning the trip.
Messi and Julián Álvarez Are Both in the Race for Goal of the Tournament — and You Can Vote
The World Cup is over, Spain lifted the trophy — but the celebration isn't quite done yet. FIFA has opened voting for the best goal of the tournament, and Argentina have put two serious contenders in the running.
How Mbappé Stood Up to the Federation President — and Won the World Cup Bonus Battle
France arrives at the 2026 World Cup with one of the most talented squads on the planet — but the road there has not been without off-pitch turbulence. According to the newspaper L'Équipe, Kylian Mbappé was the central figure in a direct confrontation with the…
Brazil spends less than Greece in the transfer window — and that says everything about its football
The home of football sits in 13th place. Not in the FIFA rankings — but in the table of who spends the most in the mid-year transfer window. And that stings.
Yamal held up a 'Paredes vs Gavi' sign on the victory bus — and Spain loved every second
Spain won the World Cup. And Lamine Yamal wasn't about to let the moment pass without a joke.
The Vini Jr. move that died on Suzuki's fingertips — and nine other saves the 2026 World Cup won't let you forget
A goal is catharsis. Everyone knows that. But there's one thing that comes close: that impossible save, the moment the ball was already heading in — and the goalkeeper appeared from nowhere to say no.
Argentina Held On for 106 Minutes, but Spain's 'Olé' Had No Answer
It had to end sometime. Argentina spent the entire knockout stage living off miracles, comebacks, and extra time — and at MetLife Stadium in New York, they finally ran out of lives.
Mbappé Makes History With 10 Goals and Two Golden Boots — But Spain Takes Everything
Ten goals in eight games. Two consecutive tournaments as top scorer. And yet Kylian Mbappé left the 2026 World Cup without the one thing he wanted most.
Half a million photos and a cathedral called Messi: the images that define this World Cup
More than 500,000 photographs. That is the volume that landed on The Guardian's photo editor's desk over the past six weeks of the World Cup — and, according to the British newspaper, there are plenty of hidden gems buried in that sea of clicks.
Álex Baena Did What Messi Never Did — and It Says Everything About the 2026 World Cup
Messi has everything. Di María has almost everything. But there is one thing neither of them ever managed — and Álex Baena has just pulled it off.
Raphinha Leaves the World Cup Injured — and His Return to Barcelona Will Have to Wait
The World Cup ended too soon for Raphinha — and his body sent the bill.
The greatest player who never set foot at a World Cup — and he connects both 2026 finalists
Five Champions Leagues. Eight Spanish league titles. 308 goals for Real Madrid. And not a single minute at a World Cup.
The Defender Scaloni Tells Not to Charge Forward — Who Does It Anyway
There is a player in Argentina who disobeys his manager — and Scaloni is grateful for it.
Kane defends Tuchel after elimination and admits: 'It hurts him just as much as it hurts us'
England left the World Cup with a bronze medal in hand and an open wound. They fell to Argentina in the semi-finals, became a target for criticism — and Harry Kane stepped forward to defend Thomas Tuchel.
For the Malvinas, for Diego, and for Messi's last dance: Argentina and Spain battle for eternity
There is a World Cup final. And not just any final.
Saka's hat-trick, a 6-4 thriller, and Bellingham's explanation: 'he stepped up just so they wouldn't distract me'
Six goals, two heartbroken nations, and a result nobody will forget. England dispatched France 6-4 in the 2026 World Cup third-place match in Miami, with Bukayo Saka stealing the show — scoring three of England's six goals.
Missed opportunity or lesson learned? England's World Cup journey under the microscope
A World Cup that could have gone differently. That is the feeling left by England's journey through the tournament — and Sky Sports football correspondent Rob Dorsett, who was alongside the England squad at every stage, holds nothing back in his reflections.
Messi could end this World Cup as champion, top scorer, and all-time assists leader — all at once
At 39 years old, at his sixth World Cup, Lionel Messi is still not satisfied. The Argentine arrives at the final against Spain carrying eight goals and four assists — and a list of records that few athletes in history have ever come close to imagining.
CR7, Neymar and Gabriel Magalhães on the same list — and it's not the World Cup's best
There are lists nobody wants to be on. Portuguese newspaper A Bola went beyond the usual best-of World Cup selections and assembled a full squad — bench included — of the tournament's biggest disappointments. Twenty-three names called up. And Brazil, believe i…
France vs England Fight for Bronze — and Mbappé Could Overtake Messi in the Golden Boot Race
Not every semifinal defeat has to stay bitter until the very end. France and England still have a trophy to play for — and the 2026 World Cup third-place match carries an extra edge that goes well beyond a bronze medal.
The photo he took with baby Yamal went viral — and Messi wants the prodigy to have an off day in the final
Nineteen years ago, Lionel Messi posed for a photo alongside a baby named Lamine Yamal for a charity campaign. On Sunday, the two meet again — this time in a World Cup final.
The Secret FIFA Thermometer That Decided the Cooling Breaks in the Spain vs Argentina Final
"We are a machine. And to run, it heats up," said André Pedrinelli. That line sums up everything the 2026 World Cup taught us about football and heat — and explains why a little-known acronym became the behind-the-scenes protagonist of the tournament.
Six Spain players are heading to the final without a single minute played — and one of them was injured
Spain arrive at the World Cup final against Argentina this Sunday in New Jersey with a curiosity that has gone largely unnoticed: six players called up by Luis de la Fuente have never set foot on the pitch. Seven matches. Twenty players used. Six still waiting…
Fernando Llorente warns: 'The night before a World Cup final is nothing like any other game'
Anyone who has lived through a World Cup final knows: there is no pretending it is a normal match. Fernando Llorente, a champion with Spain in 2010, got straight to the point on the eve of the clash between the Spanish and the Argentines at the 2026 World Cup.
At 39, Messi Is Doing Things He Last Did at 23
When Messi signed with Inter Miami in MLS, the football world rolled its eyes. A lesser league, a gilded retirement, an end-of-career dressed up as an eternal holiday. Four years later, the 39-year-old is in the World Cup semi-final matching numbers he last po…
From Norway to Bangladesh, the fan groups that stole the show at the 2026 World Cup
There are World Cups when football stops being just football. The 2026 edition delivered that in double measure — and the fans were the protagonists nobody saw coming.
"I Was Really Struggling to Find the Right Words": Bellingham Breaks His Silence — and His Team's Driver Said What He Couldn't
Six goals in the tournament, one of the best players on the pitch right through the semi-finals — and then a comeback defeat that left Jude Bellingham speechless. For nearly 24 hours, England's midfielder said nothing. When he finally spoke, it was to admit ex…
12 games, 12 wins: Lamine Yamal's number that has Spain dreaming of back-to-back glory
He's not the top scorer. He doesn't lead the assists chart. But Lamine Yamal arrives at the World Cup final carrying a number worth more than any individual statistic: in 12 games as a starter at the Euros and the World Cup, Spain have won all 12.
Spain Reached the World Cup Final After Drawing With Cape Verde in Their opener
A goalless draw against Cape Verde in the opener. The critics resurfacing. The fans full of doubt. That was Spain's reality at the start of the 2026 World Cup — and yet Luis de la Fuente's side are in the final.
Superstitions, rituals and blind faith: the invisible side of Argentina's title quest
Tactics, goals, Messi. All of that matters — but there is a layer of the World Cup that no coach can control.
The Pickford water bottle Messi found on the pitch that became a joke across Argentina
Argentina were already in the final. The scoreboard already read 2–1. And in the middle of the celebrations in Atlanta, Nico González found something on the pitch that stopped everyone in their tracks: Pickford's water bottle.
"We Are the Best, Whether Anyone Likes It or Not": Messi Sends a Warning to the World Before the Final
Messi has run out of patience for modesty. After eliminating England 2–1 to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup final, the Argentine captain went straight to the point: "We are the best in the world over these four years, whether anyone likes it or not and wh…
The Final Nobody Will Forget: Spain and Argentina Battle for the Ball — and the World
Two philosophies. One ball. And a trophy that can only go one way.
Mbappé Will Be 31 at the Next World Cup — and the Clock Is Ticking
It isn't easy being Kylian Mbappé. You are the best player of your generation, captain of France, and yet the World Cup keeps slipping through your fingers.
Argentina Refuses to Die: Stoppage-Time Comeback Against England Keeps Messi's World Cup Alive
A pattern is taking shape at this World Cup — and it has Messi's face on it.
Olise became a target of the French press after the elimination — and the Zidane comparison says it all
France entered the 2026 World Cup semi-final with an attack that had every supporter salivating. Mbappé, Dembélé, Barcola, Désiré Doué — and Michael Olise, the name generating the most excitement. Spain, however, was not impressed.
Mbappé, Dembélé and Olise vanished — and France ran straight into its old kryptonite
It had all the makings of a statement game. It turned into a crisis of confidence instead.
Spain dismantled France without even owning the ball — and the numbers tell the whole story
France arrived at the semi-final with the most feared attack at the World Cup. They left it with their worst offensive output in 60 years. That says everything about what Spain did.
63% of the time walking and eight goals: Messi's method for defying time at the World Cup
Eight goals. Thirty-nine years old. And 63% of his time on the pitch simply walking. It sounds contradictory — but that is precisely the paradox that explains why Lionel Messi remains the greatest scorer in World Cup history.
Argentina's No. 9s Woke Up at Exactly the Right Time — and England Is Next
For five games, Argentina were essentially a one-man team. Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez combined for a single goal between them — from the penalty spot, no less. Messi carried, Messi solved, Messi was Argentina's entire World Cup.
Atalanta Were Shocked by Manchester United — and Brazil Should Be Worried Too
Everything was in place. Éderson, Atalanta's defensive midfielder, was on his way to Manchester United — the deal agreed, the clubs aligned. Then came the medical tests at the Brazilian national team's pre-tournament camp, and everything fell apart.
Kane and Bellingham vs the world champions: the duel that could change England's history
Sixty years of waiting. A World Cup semi-final. And on the other side: champion Argentina.
Brazil got slammed for calling up 'second-tier' players — but does Argentina have the same problem?
The Brazilian national team became a target before the 2026 World Cup even kicks off. Calling up players who ply their trade at clubs considered lower-profile in Europe triggered a flood of criticism — from fans, journalists, and even voices outside the countr…
Deschamps promises a 'spectacular' semi-final — and the World Cup has reached the moment football has been waiting for
Didier Deschamps is not one for hyperbole. But when the France manager promises that the clash against Spain will be "spectacular", it is worth believing — because every ingredient is already in place.
37 games unbeaten and a record that sends shivers: Spain face the hardest France to beat in history
Thirty-seven games. That is Spain's unbeaten run in official competition, arriving intact at the World Cup semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. On the other side, a France side that, according to Marca, has only been knocked out at the elimination stage by Ge…
Vozinha's shirt is worth more than Alisson's and Neuer's — and an American paid R$ 65,000 to prove it
Cape Verde fell. Vozinha stayed — and the market already knows it.
The Coach Who Almost Never Coached — and Could Lead Argentina to Back-to-Back World Titles
Two passes. That was all Lionel Scaloni gave Lionel Messi during the superstar's disastrous Argentina debut in Budapest in 2005 — the match in which Messi was sent off just 45 seconds after coming on. Nobody could have imagined that fleeting contact would be t…
The blue shirt that toppled England in 1986 is back for the semifinal — and Argentina believes in the omen
Superstition doesn't keep office hours — but Argentina decided not to tempt fate. The AFA asked FIFA for permission to face England in dark blue for the World Cup semifinal, setting aside the traditional light-blue-and-white stripes. The request arrived less t…
Anderson ran more than anyone against Norway — then apologised for being destroyed
Fourteen point eight kilometres in the suffocating Miami heat. Cramps in extra time. And still Elliot Anderson walked off the pitch with a clear conscience.
Messi Has Never Faced England in an Official Match — That Changes in a World Cup Semi-Final
Over 200 appearances. One hundred and twenty-five goals. An entire career wearing the albiceleste — and Lionel Messi has never set foot on a pitch against England in an official match. Not once. That changes on Wednesday (15th), in a World Cup semi-final that…
Neymar reacted to the AI video begging for one last World Cup — and the internet lost it
Three emotional emojis. That was all Neymar needed to stop the internet in its tracks this Sunday.
The 'méchants' have arrived: France have a villain nickname and a 100% record at the World Cup
Six games. Six wins. One hundred per cent. France arrive at the World Cup semi-finals not just with flawless numbers — but with an identity.
Messi Has Never Faced England — and That Changes Wednesday
Sixty years of waiting for England. More than two decades since the last meeting between these sides. And, for Lionel Messi, an absolute debut against the English — at 38, in a World Cup semifinal. If you were looking for a match to stop the world, you just fo…
Messi Has Never Faced England in an Official Match — Until Wednesday
More than 200 appearances for Argentina. One hundred and twenty-five goals — the all-time top scorer in Albiceleste history. And yet, in official matches, Lionel Messi has never crossed paths with England. On Wednesday (15th), at 16:00 Brasília time, that meet…
37 games unbeaten and France standing in the way: Spain are 90 minutes from making history
Spain have not lost an official match since June 2023. That's 37 games, 30 wins, seven draws, 96 goals scored. A machine. And on Tuesday, in Dallas, they face the one side that could bring it all to a halt: France.
Porro Acknowledges France's Danger — but Warns: "The Small Details Will Make the Difference"
Mbappé, Dembélé, Olise, Doué, Barcola. Pedro Porro looked at that list and didn't blink. He acknowledged the danger — and then flipped the script.
Yamal Is Worth More Than Mbappé — and the Numbers Behind This Semi-Final Will Surprise You
Everyone will be talking about Mbappé versus Yamal. But before a ball is kicked, the numbers are already telling their own story — and there's a twist.
Spain players fire back at ex-PM who said France has 'no French players'
The semi-final between Spain and France was already running hot before a ball had been kicked. Now it's even hotter.
The El Salvador referee who will decide who reaches the final between France and Spain
A World Cup semifinal between France and Spain would be massive on its own. Now imagine the man with the whistle comes from El Salvador.
Mbappé Can Match What Only Cafu Ever Did — and He Says the Record Means Nothing Without the Trophy
There is a record kept for decades waiting for Kylian Mbappé — and it belongs to a Brazilian.
Flamengo beat Benfica in Portugal and leave their mid-season tour with momentum — and a lesson in focus
Flamengo went to Portugal to train, test young players, and find their rhythm. They left with something extra: a 2–1 victory over Benfica that mattered as much for what happened off the pitch as for the scoreline itself.
Messi Has Never Played England — Wednesday in Atlanta Changes That Forever
Sixty years of rivalry, the Hand of God, disallowed goals, red cards, and a war that never fully left the pitch. And amid all of it, one detail few people stop to think about: Lionel Messi has never faced England. Not once. Until Wednesday, in Atlanta.
Messi to Portuguese referee at the World Cup: 'Speak to me properly, don't disrespect me'
Finger pointed, voice steady. Lionel Messi wasn't letting it go.
Portugal Is Already Planning a World Without Cristiano — and Messi Could Be Part of It in 2030
Spain knocked Portugal out, and Cristiano Ronaldo said goodbye to World Cups. At 41, the greatest name in Portuguese football history confirmed it: 2026 was his last World Cup. So what happens now?
Messi Didn't Score, But Argentina Keep Making History — and the Model Believes in Them
It wasn't him who found the net this time — and it didn't matter one bit.
The blue England shirt that never played a World Cup match is now the most coveted item of 2026
There's an England shirt doing the rounds in the stands at the 2026 World Cup that never once took the field at a World Cup. And that's exactly what makes it irresistible.
Kane Dismisses the Golden Boot — He's Chasing Something Far Bigger Against Norway
"My main objective is to win the World Cup, not the Golden Boot," said Harry Kane. Simple as that. No ambiguity, no beating around the bush — the Bayern striker went straight to the point ahead of Saturday's quarter-final against Norway at the 2026 World Cup,…
Jorge Jesus takes charge of Portugal and sends a direct message about Cristiano Ronaldo
Jorge Jesus arrived at Portugal pulling no punches. Officially unveiled on Friday as the new head coach of the Portuguese national team, with a contract running until 2030 — the year Portugal will co-host the World Cup — the manager did not sidestep the subjec…
Pickford Has Never Won a Game With Haaland on the Pitch — and Now They Meet in a World Cup Quarter-Final
Seven goals in six games. That is the calling card Erling Haaland brings every time he faces Jordan Pickford — and today, at 6 p.m. (Brasília time), in Miami, the duel resumes with the 2026 World Cup on the line.
Dembélé Has Overtaken Vini Jr. in FIFA's Rankings — and Brazil Are Already Out
The World Cup rolls on — but Vini Jr. is no longer part of it, and FIFA's player rankings are already showing it.
Scaloni surrenders to Messi at 39: "He's a machine"
He's 39 years old, followed a special preparation programme to get here — and he's the World Cup's joint top scorer alongside Mbappé, with eight goals and one assist. Lionel Messi remains the problem no opponent knows how to solve.
The Physical Secret Behind Messi at 39 That His World Cup Rivals Simply Don't Have
Eight goals in five games. Top scorer at the World Cup at age 39. Decisive in absolutely every match he has played. Messi isn't just playing — he's flying.
The detail nobody notices in the MVP photo: two trophies, one rule, and a backdrop that vanishes
Have you ever noticed that in some World Cup MVP photos, the sponsoring beer brand's logo simply vanishes? It's not a production error. It's FIFA policy — and it exists for very specific reasons.
Kane puts the World Cup above the Ballon d'Or — and sends Haaland a warning: 'I hope he has a quiet day'
Harry Kane could have been talking about individual trophies. Instead, he went straight to the point: "My main goal is to win the World Cup with England," said the England captain at a press conference ahead of the quarter-final clash with Norway.
France Is Building a Dynasty — and That Hurts Brazilian Fans More Than They'll Admit
There's a feeling that won't leave the mind of anyone following this World Cup: France seems to be winning the tournament while saving itself for the next one. The 2–0 victory over Morocco in the quarter-finals was yet another demonstration of that — low flame…
An archbishop quoted Messi at Argentina's Independence Day mass — and they play a semifinal this Saturday
It's not every day a footballer becomes the subject of a sermon. But Lionel Messi is not every footballer.
Neymar Weeps, Ronaldo Says Goodbye — and Messi Still Dreams of One More
An entire generation is saying goodbye — and the 2026 World Cup will be remembered as much for its farewells as for its champions.
Dibu Martínez admits he'd never felt this before: the silent crisis of the world-champion goalkeeper
He saved Argentina in the Qatar final. He stopped penalties against the Netherlands and France. He became the symbol of a generation. But at this World Cup, Emiliano Dibu Martínez is uncomfortable — and he isn't hiding it.
The Venezuelan journalist in a wheelchair who made Messi and Bellingham stop everything at the World Cup
Messi was greeting fans outside Argentina's hotel when he noticed a reporter in a wheelchair. He stopped. He asked the supporters to be careful. And he answered two questions, completely off-script. It was June 10, before a single ball had been kicked at the 2…
Mbappé Misses a Penalty, Scores a Screamer and Sets Up Another — Could This France Side Be the Greatest Ever?
He missed the penalty. It didn't matter. Kylian Mbappé picked the ball back up, took a deep breath, and solved the problem the only way he knows how: with a stunning strike that left every single viewer breathless. He then added an assist for Ousmane Dembélé t…
Haaland puts the pressure on England — and Tuchel still doesn't know who will stop him
Erling Haaland has scored seven goals in four games at this World Cup — two of them against Brazil in the round of sixteen — and yet he arrived on the eve of the quarter-finals insisting the pressure is not on him. It's on England.
Ten Spaniards have already scored against Courtois — and the goalkeeper admits it will be a special game
Two metres tall, eleven seasons in Spanish football, and a résumé that intimidates any striker on the planet. Thibaut Courtois is, without question, one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Yet Spain seems to have found the blueprint to beat him.
Hazard sees Yamal as a mirror of his younger self — and still believes Belgium can win the World Cup
Praise the opponent and still believe in your own team. That is exactly what Eden Hazard is doing on the eve of Belgium's quarter-final clash with Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Djorkaeff accuses: 'He was boycotted by his own team' — and points the finger at Ronaldo's World Cup teammates
Youri Djorkaeff didn't hold back. The former French international and 1998 World Cup winner came out publicly in defence of Cristiano Ronaldo and pulled no punches: in his view, Portugal failed to do its part by its captain at the 2026 World Cup.
The Portuguese referee who sent off Otamendi is now in charge of Argentina vs Switzerland at the World Cup
Argentina reach the World Cup quarter-finals with a detail that has already put the Buenos Aires press on high alert: the referee for their clash against Switzerland is João Pinheiro — the same Portuguese official who sent off Otamendi in an Allianz Cup semi-f…
Kane Steals Vini Jr.'s Spot in the 'White Chicks' Meme — and the Internet Has Already Clocked 7 Million Views
The World Cup has its own language on social media — and the 'White Chicks' meme featuring Haaland has already become an unofficial tournament institution. Now it has a new version, and this time Vini Jr. has handed the starring role to Harry Kane.
Three Years Later, France and Morocco Meet Again — But Almost Nothing Is the Same
In 2022, it was the semifinal. Now, it's the quarterfinals. France and Morocco cross paths again in a World Cup knockout round — and the weight of the rematch is very real.
Paredes reveals Argentina's pact: 'We play so his last game never comes'
The scoreboard read 2–0, Egypt in front, and Argentina staring into the abyss. Then Messi picked up the ball.
Ronaldo follows only 4 Portugal teammates on Instagram — and the stat has gone viral
Portugal's round-of-16 exit at the World Cup still stings — and social media refuses to let it go. This time, though, the talking point isn't a missed goal or a tactical call. It's Cristiano Ronaldo's Instagram.
Egypt Left Empty-Handed — But Came Home With Something They Hadn't Felt in 15 Years
For nearly 15 minutes, Egypt stood on the edge of one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. The Pharaohs were beating Argentina — the reigning world champions — 2–0. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir had even saved a penalty from Messi. It was madness. It was…
Argentina's Silent Pact: Keep Playing Until Messi's Last Game Never Comes
There is something beyond the trophy driving this Argentina side. Something no silverware can contain.
Mbappé and Achraf: two best friends who will face each other as captains on the 9th
They chatted about going on holiday together at half-time of a World Cup semi-final. That tells you everything about Mbappé and Achraf Hakimi.
Messi at 39 Is Still Haunting This World Cup — but Mbappé Could Be Argentina's Nightmare in the Quarters
Thirty-nine years old. Five games. Five goals. Lionel Messi is turning the 2026 World Cup into yet another chapter that is impossible to look away from.
Belgium rejects FIFA's training pitch in LA and moves to Galaxy's stadium ahead of Spain clash
Belgium arrived in Los Angeles for the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals and wasted no time stirring up trouble with FIFA — this time, over the pitch.
Kane with 6 goals, Haaland with 7 — which one would you pick in this quarter-final battle?
Six goals on one side. Seven on the other. Harry Kane and Erling Haaland arrive at the World Cup quarter-finals as the two most lethal strikers on the planet — and now they have to face each other.
France chasing a third World Cup title with the same squad that hasn't lost once
Five wins. Zero defeats. France arrive at the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals in a rhythm few expected — and Didier Deschamps has absolutely no reason to change what is working.
Haaland, Mbappé and Messi Need Six Goals to Make World Cup History
Thirteen goals in a single World Cup. That is the number that has haunted every top scorer since 1958, when Frenchman Just Fontaine made history in Sweden. Now, three of the biggest names in the modern game are chasing that mark — and time is running out.
Neymar Says 'It's Over Now' and Leaves the National Team With His Future Uncertain
He made his Seleção debut in 2010 and closed the chapter on the same stage, 16 years later. The 2–1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16 was, in Neymar's own words, the final whistle on the yellow shirt. "I tried, I tried. It's over now. I started her…
Messi has 7 goals in 4 games and his eyes on a fourth title — what on earth is happening at this World Cup?
At 39 years old, Lionel Messi is playing as if time does not exist — and perhaps that is because, for him, time really is running out.
1998 World Cup winner didn't hold back on eliminated Brazil: "Watching this Brazil makes me want to vomit"
Brazil are out of the 2026 World Cup — and the world wasted no time in taking notice. Youri Djorkaeff, 1998 World Cup winner with France and a FIFA ambassador at this tournament, appeared on RMC Radio's "After Foot" programme and pulled absolutely no punches.
Messi Resurrects Argentina at the Death — and Cristiano Is Already Gone
For a moment, it looked as though the cruel script was about to repeat itself. Lionel Messi, Argentina's captain, seemed destined to leave the 2026 World Cup the same way his old rival Cristiano Ronaldo had: through the back door, earlier than anyone expected.
Messi bailed Argentina out against Egypt — but how long can his supporting cast keep underdelivering?
Penalty missed, team losing, pressure at its peak — and Messi stepped up to fix it. Again.
Messi Turned the Game Around Against Egypt — and He Already Has Five Historic Moments at This World Cup
It was 0–2 to Egypt. Argentina were on the brink of a round-of-16 exit. And that was when Messi decided it was not time to go home.
First and last goal at the same stadium: the retirement detail about Neymar that almost nobody noticed
He was 18 years old, sporting a questionable haircut, and had the whole world ahead of him. On 10 August 2010, Neymar stepped onto the pitch at MetLife Stadium for his international debut against the United States — and put the ball in the net just 28 minutes…
Argentina Refuses to Let the Music Stop — and Messi Hasn't Said He's Stopping Either
Coming back from 2–0 down against Egypt and still reaching the quarter-finals. But Argentina's qualification is worth far more than three letters on a bracket. It's worth every extra minute of Lionel Messi at a World Cup.
Paraguay condemns senator's racist attack on Mbappé and stands in solidarity with the French star
The Paraguayan government refused to stay silent. After Senator Celeste Amarilla attacked Kylian Mbappé with racist remarks — coming right on the heels of France eliminating Paraguay in the World Cup round of sixteen — the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published…
Why Olise Has Entered the Ballon d'Or Conversation — and Why His Own France Camp Is Pumping the Brakes
Patrick Vieira had no hesitation: "We had Michel Platini, we had Zinedine Zidane, now we have Michael Olise," the 1998 World Cup winner told ITV Football. That is a bold claim for a player still in the quarter-final stage of a World Cup — but Olise's numbers j…
Neymar and Casemiro out, new generation in: how Brazil can make it to the 2030 World Cup
The pain of elimination against Norway in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup is still raw — but football doesn't stop. And Brazil already needs to look ahead to 2030.
Ronaldo confirms his last World Cup — but leaves his international future open
The World Cup is over for Cristiano Ronaldo. Portugal's captain confirmed it in no uncertain terms after the 1-0 defeat to Spain in the round of sixteen in Dallas — a Mikel Merino goal in stoppage time that finally extinguished the oldest dream in Portuguese f…
Kane and Bellingham scored 10 of England's 11 World Cup goals — and the dependence is as alarming as it is thrilling
Arms wide open, side by side, soaking in the roar of the English supporters at the Azteca. The image of Kane and Bellingham after the first goal against Mexico has already become a symbol of this World Cup — and it captures everything England have that is both…
Argentina vs Egypt in the Round of 16: Scaloni Reshuffles the Side as Salah Promises Trouble in Atlanta
The scare against Cape Verde is still ringing in their ears — and Argentina knows it cannot afford to repeat the script.
Tuchel once tried to sign Haaland for Chelsea — now he must stop him in a World Cup quarter-final
There is a neat irony buried in this story. Thomas Tuchel spent months trying to convince Chelsea to sign Erling Haaland. He failed. And now, years later, he must devise a plan to stop the Norwegian from tearing England apart in a World Cup quarter-final.
Colombia haven't conceded in 345 minutes — and that could be Switzerland's worst nightmare in the Round of 16
Three hundred and forty-five minutes. That is how long Colombia have stood firm, untouched, without conceding a single goal. This Tuesday at 5 p.m. (Brasília time), Switzerland must end that run — or go home.
The Two Substitutions That Destroyed Brazil: How Ancelotti Dismantled the Seleção in Ten Minutes
Brazil didn't lose to Norway. Brazil lost to Carlo Ancelotti.
Deschamps admits the Paraguay scare will serve as a lesson for France
France are in the World Cup quarter-finals — but they didn't get there unscathed.
Henderson stretchered off after celebrating England's historic Azteca comeback
England turned the Azteca upside down. But the World Cup's most epic party claimed an unlikely victim: Jordan Henderson.
Haaland Scored Two, Ancelotti Had No Answers, and Brazil Crashed Out in the Round of 16 for the First Time Since 1990
Erling Haaland walked onto the pitch at MetLife Stadium and did what he does best: he dismantled Brazil. Two goals from the Norwegian were enough to end the Seleção's dream of a sixth world title before the quarterfinals even arrived — something that hadn't ha…
Ronaldo confirms: this World Cup will be his last
Twenty-three years. Two hundred and thirty-two matches. One hundred and forty-six goals. And now, the final word.
Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play Against Spain? The Martínez Dilemma That Could Change Everything in the Round of 16
There is a 41-year-old dilemma hanging over Portugal — and his name is Cristiano Ronaldo.
Paquetá out, Raphinha doubtful, and a 28-year curse: Brazil enter the last 16 with more questions than answers
Brazil head into the round of 16 with a problem Ancelotti has yet to solve publicly: who replaces Lucas Paquetá, who will most likely play no further part in the tournament?
Haaland hits 36.5 km/h and no Brazilian comes close — what that means for the Round of 16
There is a speed problem between Brazil and Norway — and the FIFA numbers make it crystal clear.
Mbappé snubbed the opposing goalkeeper's handshake — and got a ball thrown at his head
France got past Paraguay, but what stuck in the memory wasn't any spectacular goal. It was a scene at the final whistle: Orlando Gill, named man of the match, tried to shake Kylian Mbappé's hand — and was completely blanked.
Morocco reach the quarters with nearly half the squad on a yellow-card tightrope — and Saibari limped off injured
A 3–0 win should be pure celebration. For Morocco, the rout of Canada in the round of 16 came at a steep price: nearly half the starting lineup arrives on a yellow-card warning for the quarter-final — and forward Ismael Saibari left the pitch holding his right…
Messi at 39, Ronaldo at 41 — and a journalist who wouldn't be shocked to see them both at the next World Cup
Messi is 39. Ronaldo is 41. And according to Emma Hayes, that may not be the end — it may be the prologue to one more World Cup.
Paraguay exit the World Cup with a record nobody wants: nearly half of all passes missed
Getting knocked out of the World Cup hurts. Getting knocked out with the worst pass-error rate in the tournament's history hurts even more.
The Norwegian teacher who created the Viking clap has a warning: "If there's ever a moment to beat Brazil, it's now"
There is a primary-school teacher in Oslo who may be the biggest threat to Brazil's sixth World Cup title this Sunday. Ole Frøystad, the man behind the Viking clap that took the tournament by storm, made no secret of what he thinks about Norway's round-of-16 c…
The Man Who Invented the Viking Clap Has a Warning for Brazil: "If There's Ever a Moment to Beat You, It's Now"
He is a primary-school teacher in Oslo, has never played professional football, and has no players in the family. Yet Ole Frøystad may be the most influential supporter at this World Cup — and he has already sent his message: Norway is coming for Brazil.
Ancelotti Has Faced Haaland Eight Times — and Brazil Is About to Inherit Everything He Learned
Before Haaland became Brazil's problem, he was already Ancelotti's headache. Eight times over. And the Italian manager walked away from those duels with an unwritten playbook on how to — or at least attempt to — contain the Norwegian.
From hero to mentor: how Neymar is shaping Brazil's next generation at the 2026 World Cup
Thirteen years as the main act. Now Neymar is playing a different role — and it may be the most important one of his career.
Ancelotti's Secret Playbook for Stopping Haaland — and Brazil Will Need It in the Round of 16
You don't stop Haaland with one marker. You stop him with an entire team. That is Carlo Ancelotti's conviction — and in the World Cup round of 16 against Norway, Brazil will need to believe it too.
Neymar Has Become the Squad's Mentor — and Endrick Is Already Feeling It
For 13 years, Neymar was the hero of the story. At the 2026 World Cup, the script has changed — and perhaps for the better.
Brazil heavy favourite against Norway
The World Cup's leading statistical models converge on Brazil vs Norway, Sunday at MetLife Stadium: Opta's supercomputer gives the Seleção a 64% chance of advancing, as reported by Exame; PELE, Nate Silver's model at Silver Bulletin, calculates 63%; and Golmet…
Argentina survived, but Messi was honest: "hay que corregir lo malo, que hoy fue mucho"
Argentina are through to the round of sixteen. But the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami witnessed something nobody saw coming: the reigning world champions being pushed all the way to extra time by Cape Verde, the second-smallest nation at this World Cup.
Messi leads, Mbappé right behind, Haaland closing in: the Golden Boot race has never been this good
Seven goals. That's the number Lionel Messi is sitting on as he reclaims the top of the 2026 World Cup scoring charts. The strike he netted in Argentina's victory over Cape Verde was enough for the Argentine superstar to overtake Kylian Mbappé and reassume the…
France Looks Unstoppable at the World Cup — but the Model Says the Title Is Far From Guaranteed
France reached the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup as the most feared side in the tournament — and for good reason. According to The Guardian, all six of the publication's analysts placed Les Bleus at the top of their power rankings for the competition. No o…
Brazil are favourites against Norway, but the Elo gap might surprise a lot of people
Favourites, yes. A free ride, no.
Messi leads, Mbappé lurks and Haaland is closing in: the Golden Boot race has never been this good
Seven goals. That is the number that has put Lionel Messi back at the top of the 2026 World Cup scoring charts — and the race for the Golden Boot is turning into a spectacle all of its own.
Messi Hit 20 World Cup Goals at 39 — and Had Only One Thing on His Mind
Thirty-nine years old, 120 minutes in his legs, and one clenched fist that said everything. Messi left Hard Rock Stadium exhausted — and still the best player on the pitch.
Toñito has no doubts: Portugal and Spain will settle the World Cup in the round of 16
He is 49 years old, made 206 appearances in the Portuguese top flight and won the title with Sporting in 1999/00. Toñito knows what it means to perform under pressure — and when he talks about Portugal and Spain, it is worth listening.
The Paraguay That Knocked Out Germany Is Now Setting Off Alarm Bells for France in the Round of 16
Eliminating Germany on penalties was the most unlikely feat Paraguay have pulled off at this 2026 World Cup. And it is precisely that feat that has put France on high alert ahead of the round of 16.
Messi Reaches 20 World Cup Goals — and Explains What That Clenched Fist Really Meant
Thirty-nine years old on paper, but Messi's football never read that document. Against Cape Verde, Argentina's No. 10 scored and reached 20 World Cup goals — matching the personal best he had already set in Qatar.
Mbappé promised to change at the World Cup — and the data shows he's keeping his word
Everyone has that friend who promises to change — and rarely does. Mbappé might be the exception.
Paquetá Out — Who Steps Up? Botafogo's Danilo Emerges as Frontrunner for the Spot in the Round of 16
Brazil's World Cup campaign picked up an unwanted shadow ahead of the round of 16: Lucas Paquetá is out. The grade-2 muscle injury to his left thigh, confirmed after the match against Japan, is expected to sideline the midfielder for the rest of the tournament…
Scaloni Keeps Everyone Guessing — Even About Messi — Ahead of Cape Verde Clash
A fully fit squad, a 100% record, and the weight of favouritism. Argentina have every reason to walk onto the pitch relaxed against Cape Verde — kick-off at 7 p.m. Brasília time in Miami, in the World Cup Round of 32. But Lionel Scaloni? Scaloni gives nothing…
Spain vs Portugal in the last 16: the model sees a lopsided derby
The draw could not have been crueller — or kinder, depending on which side of the border you stand. Spain and Portugal meet on July 6, in Dallas, for a place in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals, in the neighbours' first World Cup meeting since the historic 3-3…
Nate Silver's model: France and Argentina favourites — and Brazil underrated
PELE, the football model that American statistician Nate Silver — famous for FiveThirtyEight's election forecasts — debuted this World Cup at Silver Bulletin, has two messages for the tournament. The first: Argentina and France are the favourites, at 26% and 2…
Diogo Costa Flies, Martínez Hooks Ronaldo, and Portugal Come From Behind to Beat Croatia in Toronto
Sometimes the World Cup is decided by millimetres — and Portugal knows that better than anyone right now.
Portugal survives Toronto chaos and now faces Spain in the Round of 16
It wasn't pretty. It was tense, controversial, and full of VAR. But Portugal are through to the Round of 16 — and Cristiano Ronaldo's dream is still alive.
Haaland calls out Vinicius Jr. ahead of Brazil vs Norway — and Brazil still can't pronounce his name
Erling Haaland laughed at the meme, looked straight into the camera and sent a direct message to Vinicius Jr. That's the mood ahead of Brazil vs Norway in the World Cup round of 16 — and the duel has already started before a ball has been kicked.
The Snickometer That Silenced Croatia and Kept Ronaldo's World Cup Alive
Can you imagine being knocked out of a World Cup by a spike on a cricket screen? That is exactly what happened to Croatia.
Messi vs. a 40-year-old goalkeeper nobody had heard of: the World Cup's most unlikely showdown
Lionel Messi on one side. Vozinha, 40 years old, on the other. The 2026 World Cup has just delivered the matchup nobody asked for — and everybody wants to see.
Paraguay wants another miracle — and Mbappé's France stands in the way
Knocking out Germany on penalties would already be enough history for any World Cup. Paraguay wants more.
Spain cruise past Austria as Unai Simón makes World Cup history
Spain keep treating the 2026 World Cup like a routine training session. On Thursday, the European champions beat Austria 3-0, moved into the Round of 16, and watched their goalkeeper write himself into tournament history. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in…
Brazil faces Norway at the World Cup — and the model already charts the path to a sixth title
Brazil is at the 2026 World Cup — and Norway is the next obstacle on the road to a sixth title.
Wonderwall Has Become England's World Cup Anthem — and Kane Knows Exactly What That Means
Sixty years of waiting. And a song from the '90s that, out of nowhere, became the symbol of all of it.
France's Deadly Trio Has Already Matched Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo — and They Still Have Games to Play
There's a stat doing the rounds at this World Cup that will sting any Brazilian fan: France's attacking trio has already done what Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo did on the road to the 2002 title — and they've done it faster.
Belgium Pull Off a Miracle Against Senegal — and Courtois Can't Help Thinking of Real Madrid: 'I've Lived This Many Times'
Two goals down, the clock showing 85 minutes, and everything seemed lost. But Belgium hadn't read the script — and went on to write one of the wildest chapters of this World Cup.
Balogun sent off by Raphael Claus: who replaces the USA's top scorer against Belgium?
The victory was there. So was the ticket to the round of sixteen. But what lingered in the air after the United States' 2–0 win over Bosnia was an uncomfortable question: how is Pochettino going to play without Folarin Balogun?
Mbappé and Messi lead with 6 goals each, Haaland and Kane breathing down their necks — the Golden Boot race is ruthless
Six goals. That's the mark Mbappé and Messi share at the top of the scoring charts at this World Cup — and neither man is showing any sign of letting up.
Hincapié covers his mouth, gets a straight red and becomes the second player sent off under the 'Vini Jr. rule' at the World Cup
The "Vini Jr. rule" has claimed another victim at the World Cup. Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapié was sent off with a straight red card in stoppage time of Ecuador's 2–0 defeat to Mexico at the Estadio Azteca — and the reason was exactly the same one that gi…
No right-back, the Azteca looming: is Tuchel's England ready for what's coming?
England arrive at the World Cup round of sixteen with a problem on the right flank, an opponent determined to make life difficult, and a legendary stadium waiting just around the corner — if they get past tonight.
In training before Japan, Luiz Henrique pulled off a nutmeg so absurd that even Neymar stopped to applaud
A substitute, barely used, almost invisible at the World Cup. And then Luiz Henrique goes and nutmegs Léo Pereira so cleanly that everything stops at training.
Spain and Argentina Enter the Knockouts — and Their Paths Could Cross Sooner Than Expected
The 2026 World Cup has reached the stage that separates the dreamers from the genuine contenders — and two of the biggest title favourites step into the knockouts with very different missions.
The France Deschamps Never Allowed to Exist Is Dominating the World Cup
For 14 years, Didier Deschamps built French national teams on control, discipline and pragmatism. Sides that engineered victories rather than improvised them. It worked: a Euro final in 2016, the world title in 2018, another final in 2022. But the France on th…
Cristiano and Modric's Last Dance Has a Date — and Toronto Will Stop to Watch
Two legends, one elimination. Portugal and Croatia meet in Toronto in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 in a match that carries the weight of a farewell — and that could be the last time Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric share a World Cup stage.
Mbappé Becomes the All-Time Top Scorer in World Cup Knockout Games — and France Hasn't Even Reached the Round of 16 Yet
Six goals. That's what Kylian Mbappé already has at this World Cup — and the tournament has barely started for France.
Neymar on the bench, smiling — and with nine goals to remind Japan who he is
Sixteen years with the national team and he had never experienced this. Neymar, a starter for Brazil since he was 18, arrives at his fourth World Cup in an unprecedented position: sitting on the bench. And, according to ge, he is at peace with it.
Vini Jr decisive, Muslera disastrous and Haaland terrifying: the best and worst of the group stage
The 2026 World Cup group stage is behind us — and it left unlikely heroes, massive disappointments and star players living up to the hype. ge assembled the best and worst XIs of the tournament so far, and the list says a great deal about what lies ahead in the…
The Most Beautiful Goals of the 2026 World Cup Group Stage Are Waiting for Your Vote
The 2026 World Cup group stage is over. The qualifiers are set, the surprises have been digested — but there's one thing nobody forgets: the goals. And what goals they were.
Wissa Scores Twice, Congo Reach the Last 32 for the First Time Ever — and Now They Face England
Fifty-two years after a traumatic World Cup debut — a 9–0 thrashing at the hands of Yugoslavia in 1974 — the Democratic Republic of Congo have reached the knockout rounds for the first time in their history. And the opponent in the Round of 32 is none other th…
Neymar came off the bench against Scotland — but will he start against Japan?
Fifteen minutes. That was all Brazil needed to be reminded that Neymar still exists at this World Cup. After sitting out the matches against Morocco and Haiti, the No. 10 came on in Wednesday's 3–0 win over Scotland and reignited the question that won't leave…
Messi comes off the bench, scores, and makes history: no player had ever netted in seven consecutive World Cup matches
Thirty minutes. That's all Lionel Messi needs to remind the world why football exists.
Mbappé Took an Hour to Wake Up — and France Still Looks Unstoppable
A poor refereeing decision irritated Kylian Mbappé. The result: two goals on his debut against Senegal. That is the level of danger France carries into this World Cup.
Ronaldo Still Wants to Be Mentioned With Messi and Mbappé — But Colombia Showed How Far He Has to Go
Cristiano Ronaldo screamed "I'm back!" into the camera after Portugal dispatched Uzbekistan. Dramatic, theatrical, quintessentially him. But Colombia, who just knocked Portugal off the top of Group K with a draw, doesn't seem to have gotten the message.
Unstoppable Argentina, Stalled England and a Team Called Japan: What the Numbers Say Before the Final Group-Stage Round
One shot on target conceded across two matches. That's it. Argentina arrive at the third round of the 2026 World Cup with the tournament's best defensive record — and a clean sheet still intact. Meanwhile, Messi missed a penalty and the team still scored five…
Cape Verde Made History at the World Cup — Now They Face Messi and Argentina
A goalless draw with Saudi Arabia. A phone on the pitch. And when the final whistle blew in Guadalajara confirming Spain's victory over Uruguay, an explosion of tears, embraces and ten-starred flags that no one will forget any time soon.
The Goal VAR Erased and the Words That Broke Hearts: 'I Don't Know Why We're So Unlucky'
In stoppage time, the ball hit the net. The celebrations erupted. Then VAR arrived — and took it all away.
Messi starts on the bench against Jordan — and Scaloni has already said when he comes on
Five goals in two games, the World Cup's outright top scorer, and the holder of the competition's all-time scoring record — and yet Lionel Messi will begin Argentina's final group-stage match on the bench. The confirmation came from head coach Lionel Scaloni h…
From Arsenal trauma to World Cup hero: Nicolas Pépé's comeback nobody saw coming
Everything was set up to go wrong. And for a long time, it did.
Mbappé and Haaland both on four goals — who matters more to his country?
Four goals each, a place in the next round secured, and top spot in the group still up for grabs. Mbappé and Haaland arrive at Friday's showdown at Boston Stadium perfectly level on the scoresheet — but the story each man carries onto the pitch is anything but…
Mbappé vs Haaland at the World Cup: the rivalry football has been waiting for is finally here
Messi and Ronaldo are still on the pitch, but the throne already has two claimants — and they are facing each other at a World Cup for the first time.
The World Cup ball is fooling goalkeepers — and there's a scientific study to prove it
Luca Zidane has already conceded five goals in two games. Two of them passed literally through his fingers — one from Messi, another from Jordanian Nizar al-Rashdan. The son of Zinedine, the Algerian goalkeeper has become a symbol of something that goes beyond…
The World Cup Has Become a Reality Show of Stars — But a Team Will Lift the Trophy
Cristiano Ronaldo didn't score. That was the lede on Portugal's draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo — not the result, not the collective performance, not what that point might mean to a nation of millions. Just the fact that a 41-year-old man failed to…
Montella puts his foot down before Turkey's final match: 'I will not resign'
Turkey are already out of the World Cup, but Vincenzo Montella has not left. And he made it crystal clear that he has no intention of doing so.
Kane misses an open goal, Bellingham says he didn't deserve the award, and England stumble in Boston
One-on-one with the goalkeeper, Ghana at their mercy, Harry Kane fired over the bar. And Boston fell silent.
CR7 Makes History Across Six World Cups — Then Haaland Shows Up to Steal the Thunder
Cristiano Ronaldo was under fire. After a limp draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the criticism came hard. Then Uzbekistan arrived — and the Portuguese captain answered the only way he knows how: two goals, a 5–0 rout, and a record no one else hold…
40-Year-Old Ochoa Dreams of a Sixth World Cup — and Aguirre Just Laughs When Asked
Forty years old, six World Cups under his belt, and a Javier Aguirre smile as the only answer. The Guillermo Ochoa saga has become the hottest topic in Mexico ahead of the country's final group-stage match.
Ronaldo screams 'I'm back' after making history and silencing his critics at the World Cup
Nobody expected it to happen like this — and maybe that's exactly why it felt so big.
Messi Turns 39 at the World Cup — and Is Somehow Playing Better Than Ever
Something absurd is happening at this World Cup. Lionel Messi turned 39 on Wednesday — and he is playing like he is 26.
Steve Clarke Already Has a Plan if Brazil vs Scotland Gets Struck by Lightning in Miami
Miami could be the stage for more than football this Wednesday. The weather forecast for the Brazil vs Scotland clash, kick-off at 19:00 (Brasília time), comes with an extra ingredient: a risk of rain and thunderstorms, with a 30% chance during match time, acc…
The traffic cone that became Scotland's symbol has arrived in Boston — and the city's statues will never be the same
Bagpipes, beer and… traffic cones. The Scottish supporters arrived in Boston with everything you'd expect — and the city's statues are paying the price.
Carlos Queiroz blasts VAR after England draw: 'it went for a coffee break'
Carlos Queiroz did not leave the dressing room with his thoughts to himself. After Ghana and England played out a goalless draw in the 2026 World Cup group stage, the Ghanaian manager faced the press and tore into the video-review system with a cutting sense o…
Hat-trick on debut, tough days off the pitch, and a Nadal comparison no one saw coming
Tough days off the pitch, three goals on it, and a comparison nobody saw coming. Lionel Messi opened the 2026 World Cup the only way he knows how: with a hat-trick in Argentina's 3–0 win over Algeria, leaving everyone with more questions than answers.
Ronaldo at 41 at the World Cup: blessing or burden for Portugal?
No player in football history has arrived at a sixth World Cup with more international goals than Cristiano Ronaldo. He has scored 143 times in a Portugal shirt — and now, at 41, he steps onto the pitch against the Democratic Republic of Congo carrying the wei…
Maguire opens up about World Cup axe: "I was shocked and devastated"
Imagine getting a message at 4 p.m. from a World Cup manager — and knowing, before you even pick up, that the news isn't good. That's exactly what Harry Maguire went through.
Mbappé arrives at the World Cup seeking peace — and France hopes he finds it on the pitch
Forty-two goals in a season, top scorer in the Spanish league — and yet Kylian Mbappé arrives at the World Cup carrying more baggage than trophies. His year at Real Madrid was turbulent: friction with the squad, public barbs with coach Álvaro Arbeloa, and an o…
Jordan and Uzbekistan Arrive at the 2026 World Cup Ready to Fight — and Messi and CR7 Are in Their Way
The streets of Amman and Tashkent are already buzzing — and the 2026 World Cup has barely started for them.
No champion has retained the title on a different continent since Brazil in 1962 — Messi's Argentina wants to be the first
More than six decades. That is how long world football has been waiting for a World Cup champion capable of defending the title on a different continent. Brazil did it in 1962, in Chile. Since then, no one has managed it. Now, Lionel Messi's Argentina wants to…
Jordan Will Face Messi at the World Cup — and for Them It Could Be the Game of a Generation
Some nations make their World Cup debut and land straight in a semifinal. Not Jordan. They make their debut, and the final fixture of the group stage is a showdown with Lionel Messi's Argentina — on June 27. For a country that waited decades for this moment, t…
Hakimi becomes the African with the most World Cup appearances ever — and he's not done yet
The draw with Brazil cost Morocco two precious points — but it left a historic footnote on Achraf Hakimi's résumé. With last Saturday's match, the full-back and captain reached 11 World Cup appearances, making him the Moroccan player with the most games in the…
Argentina have never won their opening game as defending champions — and the record is haunting before the Algeria clash
Being world champions comes at a price — and Argentina pay it every time they try to defend the title.
Spain arrive at World Cup 2026 unbeaten in 30 games — but their tournament openers tell a very different story
Thirty games without a defeat. European champions. Title favourites. And yet Luis de la Fuente doesn't want to hear a single word about an easy opener. There's a good reason for that.
Eleven empty suites, green shirts, and a World Cup that can't fill its own stands
Ten minutes into the match, a group of people in green shirts began filling the suites behind the goal at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. They weren't late-arriving fans — they were World Cup volunteers summoned at short notice to occupy spaces FIFA simply couldn't se…
Mauricio ends a 12-year drought and becomes the sixth Palmeiras player to score at a World Cup
Twelve years of waiting. Since Valdivia in 2014, no player linked to Palmeiras had found the net at a World Cup — until Friday, in Los Angeles.
Neymar on the bench in sneakers and a cap — but he's never felt more present
Staff kit, running shoes and a cap. Neymar didn't need boots to become one of the defining figures in Brazil's 1–1 draw with Morocco in their World Cup opener.
Jozy Altidore believes the US will win it all — and has a message for the doubters: "If you don't believe, get out"
Jozy Altidore didn't mince words. The day after the United States hammered Paraguay 4–1, the former striker showed up at a sponsors' event and dropped the declaration: "The United States are going to win the World Cup. If you don't believe that, get out of her…
The Brazilian club that beat Japan in Tokyo — and defeated the USA just weeks after the first-ever World Cup
With the World Cup heating up, Botafogo finds itself at the centre of a conversation that goes well beyond the national team. Yes, O Glorioso is the club that has supplied the most players to World Cups — 48 call-ups throughout history, according to ge. But th…
Memphis Could End Corinthians' 20-Year World Cup Silence
Twenty years. That's how long Corinthians have been waiting for a World Cup goal — and Memphis Depay has the chance to end it this Sunday.
Japan arrives at the World Cup without Mitoma, Minamino, or their captain — and they're still terrifying
Three key absences. A captain ruled out days before kick-off. And yet Japan arrive at the World Cup as one of the most dangerous sides in Group F.
The 'German Lampard' making his World Cup debut at 34 — and turning 35 the very next day
While most first-timers at this World Cup are still discovering what big-tournament pressure feels like — at 17, 18, 19 years old — Pascal Gross arrives at the finals at 34, with a career built brick by brick in the Premier League and a nickname that says it a…
Harry Kewell sends USA a warning: 'We managed to neutralise that'
Australia took to the field in Canada, won 2–0, and silenced the doubters. Now one of the greatest icons in Socceroos history already has his sights set on the next challenge — and the message to the United States was blunt.
Ancelotti once lost to a Moldovan club inside the Bernabéu and still won the trophy — should France even worry?
Losing to Sheriff Tiraspol, from Moldova, inside the Santiago Bernabéu. Falling to AEK in Greece. Drawing 0–0 with Celtic in Glasgow. Carlo Ancelotti has lived through all of it — and lifted the trophy in the end.
Spain arrive as Euro champions and tournament favourites — but their opener against Cabo Verde has more to it than meets the eye
Spain open their campaign on 15 June when Luis de la Fuente's side face Cabo Verde at Atlanta Stadium in a Group H opener that marks the first-ever meeting between the two nations. The Cape Verdeans arrive dreaming big: they put on a show in two warm-up friend…
Montella blames bad luck, but Turkey's 30 shots and zero goals tell a different story
Thirty shots. Zero goals. Two-nil on the scoreboard. Some defeats hurt more than the result suggests — and Turkey's opening game at the 2026 World Cup is exactly that kind.
No Neymar on the pitch, no Rodrygo on the bench — Brazil open their World Cup without two of their biggest stars
No Neymar on the pitch, no Rodrygo on the bench. Brazil open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Morocco with two absences that weigh heavily — and in very different ways.
Ancelotti begins Brazil tenure without Neymar against Morocco, 24 years of hurt in tow
Is there greater pressure than carrying 24 years of hurt into a World Cup held in the very same country where that drought was last broken? Carlo Ancelotti is about to find out.
Neymar's World Cup record chase could be over before it truly begins
Neymar is back at the World Cup, but the record he has chased for so long may be about to become a mirage.
Neymar still not training with ball and may miss Brazil's second World Cup game too
It wasn't just the opener. Neymar could miss Brazil's second World Cup game as well.
Endrick came off the bench, won the game and put the decision back on Ancelotti
Ancelotti handed the starting spot to Igor Thiago. Endrick came on in the second half. And it was Endrick who settled it.
Sterling smiles in public video but remains absent from World Cup squad amid four criminal charges
Raheem Sterling smiled for the camera. He was eating, relaxed, sitting beside a famous friend — as if the last few weeks had never happened. But they did.
Paraguay return to the World Cup after 16 years — and face the hosts first
Sixteen years of waiting. That's the hunger Paraguay brings to this World Cup — and the first obstacle is as symbolic as it gets: the host nation, on home soil.
Raphinha admits 2022 immaturity and eyes redemption as Neymar's fitness stays unclear
"I feel much more prepared," Raphinha said when asked about the World Cup — and that single sentence set Brazilian social media alight.
A psychic says Portugal, EA Sports says Spain — and the model breaks the tie
The internet has already decided who wins the 2026 World Cup: Portugal. On one side, Michael Bruno — the Brazilian known as the "Vidente das Copas" (the World Cup Psychic) — who called Spain in 2010, Germany in 2014 and France in 2018. On the other, EA Sports…
The 'tributes' that went viral: fans couldn't recognise their own national-team stars
With nearly one million views on a single video, paintings of Brazilian national-team players on walls and in communities across Rio de Janeiro became the biggest comic hit of the pre-World Cup season. The problem: almost nobody could identify the stars being…
Between Kids, Dogs and Real Madrid: What Bernardo Silva Has Planned After the World Cup
Bernardo Silva will go into the 2026 World Cup with his mind split between the pitch and his family. The 31-year-old attacking midfielder, who has just left Manchester City after nine seasons, has yet to decide on his next club — and, for now, he doesn't seem…
Mexico vs South Africa: What the Numbers Reveal Before the Group A Opener
Playing at home carries weight — and Mexico knows it. The Group A opener against South Africa, scheduled for June 11, 2026, puts the host nation in front of a concrete opportunity to hit the ground running at a World Cup played on North American soil.
Two injury blows, one debut in six days: Argentina arrive at the World Cup with their defence on alert
Argentina arrive at the 2026 World Cup with their defensive unit under pressure. After losing centre-back Balerdi to injury last week, the world champions called up 29-year-old Marcos Senesi to fill the gap. The defender, who came through San Lorenzo and curre…
South Africa Danced Into the Azteca — But the Numbers Tell a Very Different Story
South Africa's delegation danced their way into the Estadio Azteca on Thursday — but the numbers behind the celebration tell a very different story. The South African side have played five matches in 2026 without a single win: two defeats and three draws, incl…
Sombreros, Mariachis and Two Stars: Colombia Arrived in Mexico With a Party — and a Serious Mission
Colombia's arrival in Mexico for the final preparation phase ahead of the 2026 World Cup did not go unnoticed. At the team hotel in Guadalajara, the squad was welcomed by a mariachi band — and James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz could not resist: they put on traditi…
South Korea vs Czech Republic: What's at Stake in the June 11 World Cup Clash
On June 11, 2026, South Korea and the Czech Republic take the field in a FIFA World Cup match that promises to carry direct weight in the group-stage standings. The fixture is confirmed and being closely followed by GloboEsporte.com, which is covering lineups,…
Shakira at the World Cup Opening: The Singer Who Already Has More World Cups Than Piqué
Even before the first ball was kicked between Mexico and South Africa at the 2026 World Cup, it was Shakira who stole the show. The Colombian singer took the stage at the opening ceremony and performed "Dai Dai", a song written specifically for the tournament,…
How to Watch World Cup Highlights Without Knowing the Score First
For fans who can't watch matches live — whether due to time zones or busy schedules — finding out the result before watching the highlights can ruin the whole experience. With that in mind, the BBC has created a straightforward solution for anyone who wants to…
Denied Entry to the US Before the World Cup, Somali Referee Receives Historic UEFA Appointment
Omar Artan was set to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a World Cup — but he was turned away at the American border before ever setting foot on a pitch. Now, UEFA has responded to the episode with a high-profile appointment: the referee will take…
Morata out of the World Cup — and he admits he didn't deserve the spot
Few players would have the courage to say what Álvaro Morata said: Spain's fourth all-time top scorer publicly admitted he did not deserve a place in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The statement came on the podcast "El Camino de Mario" and stands out for it…
What Does Mahomes's Injury Have to Do With the 2026 World Cup?
Patrick Mahomes tore the ligaments in his left knee in December, underwent surgery, and three months later was already throwing passes on the move — a recovery that stunned the American football world. The news came alongside the most expensive contract extens…
Enciso's absence from team training puts Maurício in pole position for Paraguay's opener
Julio Enciso, one of Paraguay's most anticipated names at the World Cup, continues to train separately from the main group after suffering a thigh injury last Friday. For the third consecutive day, the midfielder carried out only physical and ball work around…
Neymar's Family Sets Up Luxury Florida Base to Follow the World Cup
Neymar's father has rented a mansion in Florida to serve as a base for the player's family and inner circle during the 2026 World Cup. The property, valued at $14.5 million — roughly R$75.3 million at the current exchange rate — features 16 bedrooms and sits j…
Uruguay heads to the World Cup with a send-off and a setback: Arrascaeta out for the opening games
The Uruguayan national team left Montevideo on Tuesday night bound for Playa del Carmen, Mexico, where they will be based throughout the World Cup. The send-off drew fans to Carrasco Airport, who brought flags and percussion instruments to bid farewell to the…
Somali Referee Spent 11 Hours in Immigration Interview — and Was Barred From Entering the US for the World Cup
Somali referee Omar Artan reported being subjected to an 11-hour immigration interview before being denied entry into the United States, even though he claims to have carried the correct documents and visa to participate in the World Cup.
Model Gives Brazil 91.22% to Advance — but Morocco Arrive on 29-Game Unbeaten Run
Brazil opens its 2026 World Cup campaign on Saturday at 7 p.m. in New Jersey against Morocco — a side that arrives at the tournament on a 29-game unbeaten streak. The match is the opening fixture of Group C.
2026 World Cup Will Feature 891 First-Timers: Meet Some of the Talents Set to Turn Heads
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will bring together a record 1,248 players. Of that total, 891 will be competing in the tournament for the very first time, opening the door for new names to capture the world's attention…
14 Years in Charge and Deschamps Still Has to Defend Mbappé Like This
Didier Deschamps has been in charge of the French national team for nearly 14 years and has long grown accustomed to fielding questions. In an interview with British newspaper The Guardian, the manager came out in defence of deploying Kylian Mbappé as a centre…
The 43-Year-Old Goalkeeper Who Almost Didn't Make It to His First World Cup Alive
Craig Gordon, a 43-year-old goalkeeper, was called up by Scotland for the World Cup and became the oldest player ever to represent the country at the tournament. His presence in the competition had been considered virtually unimaginable just a few months befor…
Hugo Broos isn't hiding it: facing 85,000 hostile fans at the Azteca is the least of his worries
Even before a ball has been kicked at the Estadio Azteca, South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has made his feelings about the 2026 World Cup perfectly clear: for the 74-year-old Belgian, the tournament has simply grown too big. Speaking on the eve of his side's…
Madueke rounds the keeper, hits the post — and the internet sent England the bill
In the 35th minute of the first half of the friendly between England and Costa Rica in Orlando, Noni Madueke received a through ball, entered the box alone, rounded the opposing goalkeeper and struck the post. The moment, which could have been a textbook goal,…
At 38, Messi Breaks 1957 Record and Reaches 117 Argentina Goals
Lionel Messi ended a two-week spell recovering from muscular fatigue in the best way possible: he came on in the second half of Argentina's 3–0 victory over Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, converted a penalty and also played a part in the move that led to the thir…
Neymar at the World Cup: What Has Changed — and What Is Still at Stake for the No. 10
Something that seemed unlikely not long ago has become reality: Carlo Ancelotti included Neymar Jr. in Brazil's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. The call-up ended months of intense debate in Brazilian football — and it arrives loaded with symbolism.
Security Search of Senegal's Delegation Sparks Geopolitical Debate on the Eve of the World Cup
Images of players and members of Senegal's delegation undergoing security checks beside an aircraft at Raleigh Airport in North Carolina circulated on social media and quickly gained international traction. Outlets across Europe, Asia, and Africa picked up the…
Achilles Injury, 48 Caps and a World Cup: The Weight of Saka in Tuchel's Plans
Thomas Tuchel has admitted that Bukayo Saka still requires special attention in England's World Cup preparations. The Arsenal forward suffered an Achilles tendon injury in March and, although he returned to his club in time to contribute to their Premier Leagu…
Jackson Hits the Bar and Gets Sent Off: Senegal's Turbulent World Cup Dress Rehearsal
Senegal and Saudi Arabia wrapped up their World Cup preparations with a goalless draw last Tuesday at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas. The result leaves both sides without a win in their final tune-up before the tournament.
Three Games, No Goals: CR7's Drought Hits at the Worst Possible Time for Portugal
Three consecutive matches without a goal. It is Cristiano Ronaldo's worst run in a Portugal shirt in the last two years, and the timing could not be more delicate: the 2026 World Cup is just days away.
Visa Denied, TV Guaranteed: The Story of the Argentines Who'll Watch Messi's Last World Cup From Home
For hundreds of Argentine fans, the 2026 World Cup will unfold far from the stadiums — not for lack of desire, but because of a denied visa. Faced with that reality, conglomerate Newsan decided to turn frustration into a gesture: the company promised to give a…
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