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World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings: Messi & David lead

The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars

FIFA changes policy after Tuchel complaint

Thomas Tuchel has successfully persuaded FIFA to alter its pre-match media guidelines following a frustrating experience during his tournament debut in Texas. The England head coach complained that a dense wall of press photographers completely obstructed his view of the players during the national anthems, prompting football's governing body to launch an immediate tactical compromise.

Singing Oasis at Rodeos, Cowboy hats - England fans go full Texas

England fans came to Texas for the Three Lions' World Cup opener. They found rodeos, pickup trucks, cowboy hats, Oasis sing-alongs, and a tournament experience unlike any they’ve had before.

Ferdinand picks out England's 'only genuinely world-class player'

Rio Ferdinand has claimed that England possess just one "genuinely world-class player" in their ranks despite the wealth of talent available to Thomas Tuchel. The Manchester United legend made the assessment following the Three Lions' impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia in their 2026 World Cup opener on Wednesday.

'Sometimes I deserve it' - Bellingham gives honest response to his critics

Jude Bellingham admitted that sometimes he "deserves" the criticism that comes his way after starring in England's 4-2 win over Croatia at the 2026 World Cup. The Real Madrid star was among the scorers as the Three Lions began their group stage campaign in style, and after the final whistle, he took the opportunity to address the scrutiny he has faced in recent months.

England v Croatia: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026

Hamann claims 'jury's out' on Kane's ability to deliver at major tournaments

Ex-Liverpool and Germany midfielder Dietmar Hamann has sparked controversy by claiming that the "jury is out" on Harry Kane’s ability to perform in high-stakes matches at major tournaments. Despite the England captain netting twice in an emphatic 4-2 World Cup opening victory over Croatia, Hamann remains unconvinced by his credentials against elite opposition.

Tuchel 'begging' FIFA to change pre-match protocol after 'special moment' ruined

Thomas Tuchel enjoyed a winning start to life as England manager at the 2026 World Cup, but the German was left far from happy with the pre-match scenes. Despite a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Arlington, the former Chelsea boss has remarkably called on FIFA to rethink their stadium protocols after a personal milestone was soured by pitchside distractions.

WC26 Power Rankings: Messi powers Argentina to top spot

The first round of 2026 World Cup group-stage fixtures is in the books, and the tournament has gotten off to a flyer. Despite a lack of eye-catching fixtures on paper in the new, expanded format, there have been thrills and spills aplenty, with all the big names showing up for their respective countries on football's biggest stage. Well, almost all of them.

'Do as I told you!' - Tuchel's furious rant at England star revealed during WC win

Thomas Tuchel enjoyed a winning start to his first World Cup as England manager, but the 4-2 victory over Croatia was not without its moments of tension. The German tactician was seen in a heated exchange with one of his most senior players as he demanded tactical perfection from the touchline in Dallas.

Panama vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 preview

Comprehensive match preview of Panama vs Croatia at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more.

Tuchel works his magic - now he must fix dodgy defence

Thomas Tuchel did not describe, exactly, what he said at half-time of England's 4-2 win over Croatia that opened up their 2026 World Cup campaign. The score was deadlocked at 2-2 at the time, and England weren't playing particularly well. Tuchel insisted that he had some calm words and told his team to play with courage. The reality, though, is probably a little harsher.

Tuchel provides update on Rice injury scare

Thomas Tuchel has offered an optimistic update on Declan Rice after the Arsenal midfielder caused a major scare by limping out of England's World Cup opener. The Three Lions got their campaign off to a flying start in Dallas, but the sight of their midfield anchor heading for the tunnel early sparked immediate concern for fans and club manager Mikel Arteta alike.

'Show the world!' - Kane reveals Tuchel's inspiring half-time message

Harry Kane has revealed how Thomas Tuchel's half-time team talk inspired England to raise their level and beat Croatia in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup. After a tense first half, the Three Lions produced a dominant display after the break, with the Bayern Munich star crediting his manager's message for the dramatic improvement.

Kane matches Lineker record after penalty drama

Harry Kane has once again etched his name into the history books, though he had to do it the hard way during England’s pulsating World Cup encounter with Croatia. The Three Lions captain was handed a rare second bite at the cherry from the penalty spot, setting the stage to move level with a national legend.

England Training And Press Conference - FIFA World Cup 2026

England warned they can't win the World Cup

Former Sweden international Tomas Brolin has brutally dismissed England's hopes of winning the World Cup this summer. The football legend insists Thomas Tuchel's men, who are chasing their first title since 1966, are severely overrated. Brolin also shared his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo's future and backed Michael Olise to shine on the biggest stage.

Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 kits

Croatia 2026 kits revealed - iconic checks meet retro vibes.

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Modric will 'definitely' return to Madrid, claims Croatia icon

Croatia legend Davor Suker claims that AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric is destined to return to Real Madrid after he leaves the Italian side. The former striker insists that the iconic playmaker will definitely reunite with the Spanish giants after the World Cup, adding another chapter to his legendary 597-game legacy in the capital.

Why Bellingham ending arm-waving would be ‘more of a problem’

Outbursts of emotion from Jude Bellingham are no bad thing, ex-England star David James has told GOAL, with it considered to be “more of a problem” if the Real Madrid midfielder reined in his on-field behaviour. Team-mates, with club and country, are considered to have accepted that the passionate 22-year-old will always be a fiery character.

England vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 Preview

GOAL brings you everything you need to know about England vs Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Harry Kane Anthony Gordon Ollie Watkins England 2026

Happy behind Kane? England’s ‘finishers’ have key role to play

Harry Kane remains England’s go-to option for attacking inspiration, as the talismanic captain of his country, but Stan Collymore has explained to GOAL why “finishers” such as Ollie Watkins and Anthony Gordon have an important part to play at the 2026 World Cup. The Three Lions are ready to start roaring on North American soil, with squad depth crucial to Thomas Tuchel.

Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League

Mainoo a source of ‘inspiration’ to Utd academy hopeful Rooney

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has reached out to Kobbie Mainoo with a heartfelt personal message ahead of the midfielder's World Cup debut for England. The Red Devils' all-time record goalscorer hailed the 21-year-old as a pivotal role model for the next generation of talent at Old Trafford - including his son, Kai.

England World Cup 2026 Training & Media Activity

Tuchel's England contract contains World Cup break clause

Thomas Tuchel may have recently signed a contract extension with England, but his long-term future remains tied to immediate success on the world stage. Despite a new deal intended to take him through to Euro 2028, it has emerged that the Football Association has protected itself with specific safeguards.

England v Costa Rica - International Friendly

Ex-Arsenal star: England have 'so many players better than Saka'

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has launched a scathing attack on Bukayo Saka, claiming the winger does not deserve to start for England at the World Cup. Despite the Gunners winning the Premier League, Petit believes the forward's form has dipped, managing 11 goals in 49 games this season. He insists far better options are available as the Three Lions prepare to kick off their tournament.

England MD-1 Training and Press Conference

Huge blow for Tuchel! England star ruled OUT of World Cup

England defender Tino Livramento has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup following a devastating fitness setback on the eve of their tournament opener. The versatile Newcastle United full-back is struggling with a calf injury, which has forced manager Thomas Tuchel into a late squad alteration ahead of the Three Lions' clash with Croatia.

Saka admits taking fitness 'gamble' ahead of England's World Cup opener

England forward Bukayo Saka has admitted he is continuing to "gamble" on his fitness ahead of the Three Lions' 2026 World Cup opener against Croatia in Dallas. The 24-year-old is desperate to feature for Thomas Tuchel’s side despite managing a nagging Achilles issue that has severely limited his playing time over the last three months.

Maguire opens up on 'awkward' Tuchel FaceTime call

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has opened up on the "awkward" FaceTime call from Thomas Tuchel that ended his 2026 World Cup dreams. Despite suffering a contentious omission from the Three Lions squad, the veteran centre-back has firmly decided against retiring from international football as his country begins its campaign for global glory.

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