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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.

Cristiano Ronaldo was in no mood to discuss his long-time rival Lionel Messi despite silencing his own doubters with a vintage performance at the 2026 World Cup. While the legendary forward netted twice in Portugal's dominant victory over Uzbekistan, an awkward post-match exchange in the mixed zone still drew plenty of attention.

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.

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.

Real Madrid's hope of executing a quick-fire financial masterstroke with Nico Paz has been dashed by transfer regulations. The Spanish giants had planned to trigger a bargain buy-back clause for the Argentine playmaker before flipping him for an immediate €50 million (£43m/$57m) profit, but the move is now legally impossible this summer.

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.

GOAL takes a look at the big storylines and takeaways in the latest installment of the USMNT notebook.

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.

Cristiano Ronaldo was in a defiant mood after leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan, insisting his side have truly arrived at the 2026 World Cup. The legendary forward silenced his detractors in Houston with a clinical double that secured three vital points for the Selecao.

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.

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.

Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly locked in a transfer battle for Bournemouth sensation Alex Scott, who has seen his stock soar after a brilliant Premier League campaign. The 22-year-old was a standout performer for the Cherries last term and narrowly missed out on a spot in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup.

Canada are one result from topping Group B and staying home for the knockouts as they face Switzerland with momentum, belief and Ismaël Koné’s injury looming large.

Chelsea have reportedly slapped a massive price tag on midfielder Enzo Fernandez as Real Madrid ramp up their interest in the Argentina international. The World Cup winner has emerged as a primary target for Jose Mourinho as the Portuguese coach looks to overhaul the squad at Santiago Bernabeu.

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.

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.

Former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey has officially moved into management after being clinical in his decision to hang up his boots. The 35-year-old has been confirmed as the new head coach of Oxford United, marking a significant new chapter for one of Wales' greatest ever players.

Real Madrid have officially completed the signing of Swedish teenage sensation Felicia Schroder from BK Hacken for a world-record fee in women's football. The 19-year-old striker has signed a four-year contract with the Spanish giants until 2030, a move that leaves Chelsea frustrated after their earlier record-breaking bid was ultimately unsuccessful in securing her signature.

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.

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.

Mexico have already secured first place, but Javier Aguirre still faces key decisions as El Tri prepare to face Czechia before the World Cup knockout rounds.

Kevin De Bruyne has issued a stark warning to his Belgium team-mates, admitting the squad has failed to meet expectations during a stuttering World Cup campaign. The Red Devils face the very real prospect of a group-stage exit after failing to win either of their opening two fixtures in North America.

Former Chelsea captain John Terry has expressed his immense frustration after being overlooked for the interim managerial role at Stamford Bridge twice last season. Speaking out about the club's decision to appoint inexperienced academy coach Calum McFarlane over him, Terry insists that no one at the club possessed better qualifications or a deeper connection to the team.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made contact with Real Madrid regarding a move for teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono. The Argentine playmaker is set to be made available this summer as he does not figure in the immediate plans of Los Blancos boss Jose Mourinho.

The world is learning more and more about the American striker, who could become a household name both in the U.S. and Europe if he continues to perform.

AS Roma supporters have launched an online petition to block the club from signing Mason Greenwood. Fans are fiercely opposing the potential transfer due to his past off-field controversies, urging the Italian side to align with their core values and avoid acquiring a player they view as a highly divisive figure in modern football.

Kansas City Current forward Temwa Chawinga won NWSL MVP and Golden Boot honors for the past two seasons and the Ballon d'Or shortlisted player just re-signed a contract with the Current through 2029 by way of the High Impact player rule.

Manchester City and Argentina legend Sergio Aguero has thrown his weight behind Julian Alvarez’s potential move to Barcelona, insisting his compatriot is the perfect profile for the Catalan club. The former striker believes the versatile forward would thrive at Camp Nou following reports of a bombshell transfer request.

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.