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World Cup

World Cup news

Panama v Croatia: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026

Croatia reignite WC hopes in landmark appearance for Modric

Croatia secured their first points of the 2026 World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama at the Toronto Stadium. As Luka Modric celebrated a major international milestone, the result keeps Zlatko Dalic's side firmly in the hunt for a place in the knockout stages while ending Panama's tournament hopes with a game to spare.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi South Africa 2026

More votes than Messi! MLS All-Star Mbokazi gets ‘great’ billing

In his first season at the Chicago Fire, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has become an All-Star in the United States - polling more votes than Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi. Fellow countryman and MLS trailblazer Doctor Khumalo has told GOAL why the talented 20-year-old defender - who is now on 2026 World Cup duty - has become a global “ambassador for South African football” and remains on course to be “one of the greatest players” on the planet.

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Kane has a shocker as abysmal England held to bore draw

England came back down to earth at the World Cup as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Ghana on Tuesday. Unlike against Croatia in their opening game, Thomas Tuchel's side were unable to produce in the final third against the Black Stars, and thus missed the chance to potentially wrap up top spot in Group L with a match to spare.

Argentina v Algeria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

Gabby Agbonlahor tips Lionel Messi for another World Cup appearance

Former England international Gabby Agbonlahor has backed Lionel Messi to win the Premier League and Champions League if he signs for Aston Villa. The pundit also tipped the Argentina captain, who recently became the all-time leading goalscorer in the global tournament with 18 goals, to continue playing at the highest level and grace the 2030 World Cup at the age of 43.

Lionel Messi Antonela 2026 World Cup history goals

'Privilege’ - Antonela reacts to watching Messi make WC history

Antonela Roccuzzo took to social media to celebrate her husband Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain broke the all-time World Cup goalscoring record. Watched by his proud family in Dallas, the forward scored twice in a thrilling 2-0 victory over Austria, taking his tournament tally to 18 goals and surpassing Miroslav Klose to make football history.

KYLIAN MBAPPE FRANCE

Mbappe’s ‘flute’ goal celebration explained: Corden responsible

Kylian Mbappe has taken the 2026 World Cup by storm, not just with his clinical finishing but with a brand-new goal celebration that has left fans around the globe intrigued. The France captain, traditionally known for his crossed-arms pose, has swapped his trademark routine for an imaginary flute performance after finding the net in North America.

France v Senegal: Group I - FIFA World Cup 2026

Deschamps to miss decisive France fixture after death of mother

France manager Didier Deschamps will miss their 2026 World Cup Group I decider against Norway in the United States following the passing of his mother. Assistant Guy Stephan takes charge of the national team who have already reached the Round of 32, with the winner of Friday's clash set to top the group as Deschamps' final tournament at the helm takes an emotional turn.

England v Croatia: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026

Bellingham hits milestone & takes England record from Rooney

Jude Bellingham has officially made history at the 2026 World Cup, becoming the youngest player to reach 50 caps for the England national team. The Real Madrid midfielder surpassed the previous record held by Wayne Rooney, further cementing his vital role under Thomas Tuchel as the Three Lions push for glory and look to secure their group's top spot.

FBL-WC-2026-MATCH42-FRA-IRQ

Deschamps urges Dembele critics to 'get off his case'

France manager Didier Deschamps has fiercely defended Ousmane Dembele following an impressive display against Iraq. The Ballon d'Or winner faced heavy criticism after a quiet performance against Senegal, where he failed to register a shot on target. However, he silenced doubters with a goal and an assist, proving why he recently led Paris Saint-Germain to European glory.

Portugal ratings

Back in business! Revved up CR7 rewrites World Cup history books

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal answered their critics in style as they ran out 5-0 winners over Uzbekistan to record their first victory of the 2026 World Cup. Ronaldo netted twice to become his country's top goal-scorer in finals history, while a fine free-kick from Nuno Mendes, a second-half own goal from Abdukodir Khusanov and a late strike from substitute Rafael Leao ensured Roberto Martinez's side bounced back from their disappointing opening draw with DR Congo.

Portugal v Uzbekistan: Group K - FIFA World Cup 2026

Never write off Ronaldo! Portuguese GOAT makes WC history

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again silenced the critics by etching his name into the record books as the first male player to score in six different World Cup tournaments. Despite mounting pressure regarding his age and international form, the 41-year-old icon proved that his clinical instincts remain sharp on the grandest stage of all.

President Trump Welcomes Major League Soccer Champion Inter Miami To White House

'Words can't do him justice' - Suarez pays tribute to Messi

Luis Suarez has lauded Lionel Messi following his record-breaking exploits for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami striker expressed his joy at seeing his close friend perform at the highest level after Messi became the outright top scorer in World Cup history. Suarez insisted that watching Messi play remains an absolute pleasure as the team target tournament glory.

Argentina v Austria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

'I knew this could happen' - Romero speaks out on injury scare

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has downplayed fears of a serious knee injury after being forced off during Argentina's 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria. Romero was substituted early in the second half but remains optimistic about his recovery for the final group match, offering reassurance to both Argentina and Tottenham amid growing concerns about his long-term fitness.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Ronaldo & Neymar 'don't need to prove anything to anyone'

Joao Cancelo has passionately defended his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazil star Neymar from intense media criticism at the World Cup. The Portugal defender insists that both players have already cemented their legacies in football and do not need to prove their worth to anyone, despite Ronaldo's slow start and Neymar's recent injury woes in the tournament.