Hastings Overview

Messi Mbappe Haaland World Cup Golden boot 16:9

World Cup Golden Boot standings: Messi climbs to No.1

The 2026 World Cup is in its final stages and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. With only four of the original 48 nations left in the tournament, including England and France due to their participation in the third-place play-off match, which star will take home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL tracks the tournament's most prolific stars.

Newly-discovered species named after Vozinha

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has received an unusual honour after a newly-discovered marine mollusc was named after him by Spanish researcher Jesus Ortea. The tribute follows the veteran's standout performances at the World Cup, where he helped his country make history on their tournament debut.

Vozinha reveals Messi praise after Argentina clash

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has opened up about a touching exchange with Lionel Messi following his side's heartbreaking World Cup exit at the hands of Argentina. Despite the minnows falling to a narrow defeat, the shot-stopper’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed by the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Argentina v Cabo Verde: Round of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026

'Cape Verde won!' - Portugal star says Argentina result doesn't matter

Portugal defender Nelson Semedo has joined the global chorus of praise for Cape Verde following their dramatic World Cup exit at the hands of Argentina. Despite a heart-wrenching 3-2 defeat in extra time, the ex-Wolves full-back insists the island nation secured a moral victory that transcends the final scoreline.

'Magical!' Cape Verde have Henry in awe and leave Ibrahimovic 'almost in tears'

Cape Verde may have exited the World Cup following a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina, but the tiny African nation has left a permanent mark on the global stage. Despite the loss, their performance against the reigning world champions in Miami drew unprecedented praise from some of football's biggest legends like Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Scaloni reacts to Argentina narrowly avoiding biggest upset of all-time

Lionel Scaloni admitted it would have been "crazy" for Argentina to lose his 100th match in charge after the Albiceleste survived a huge scare against Cape Verde. Lionel Messi and his teammates needed extra time to progress, with their manager praising his players' resilience after a gruelling clash.