Lionel Scaloni has confirmed Lionel Messi will start on the bench for Argentina's final group-stage match after qualification was already secured. The head coach wants to manage his captain's workload while giving other members of the squad an opportunity to impress before the knockout stages.
Cape Verde have made football history by becoming the smallest nation ever to reach the World Cup knockout stages. Following a gritty group campaign, the Atlantic islanders have set up a dream round-of-32 showdown against Lionel Messi and defending champions Argentina.
Luis Suarez has urged fans to stop comparing Lamine Yamal with Lionel Messi, insisting the pair are different players despite sharing similar qualities. The Inter Miami striker praised the Spain teenager's maturity under pressure while backing him to one day reach the same level as the Argentina legend.
The fact that Lionel Messi already has five goals at the 2026 World Cup is obviously a great thing for Argentina. The worry, though, is that none of his team-mates have even managed to score one. Admittedly, relying on Messi was always part of the plan. As striking legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic said on Fox Sports, "Messi isn't just Argentina's best player. He's Argentina's system."
CM Punk joins The Late Run with the belt and proves he’s a serious football head, talking Celtic loyalty, the Rangers rivalry, why Americans tune in for World Cups and a wild Brazil flag story involving armed men. Plus: Messi over Ronaldo, WWE vs soccer trash talk, Ocho’s WrestleMania entrance and footballers who could make it in WWE.
Lionel Messi is continuing to defy the laws of physics and time at the 2026 World Cup, leaving even his former team-mates in awe of his longevity. As the veteran superstar leads Argentina's charge for a second consecutive global crown, Spain sensation Pedri has opened up on why his former Barcelona colleague remains the most effective player on the planet at 39.
Neymar has opened up on his enduring friendship with Lionel Messi after making his long-awaited return to the international stage with Brazil. The Santos forward made a cameo appearance in the Selecao's 3-0 World Cup victory over Scotland, marking his first competitive appearance for his country in nearly three years.
José Mourinho has expressed his delight that Lionel Messi was able to win a World Cup to add the only major trophy he was missing to his enviable collection. The Argentina captain propelled his nation to global glory in Qatar in 2022, and is now looking to repeat the feat in North America, with Lionel Scaloni's side expected to go deep in the competition once again.
New Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho joins Adebayo Akinfenwa on the Beast Mode On Podcast as he exclusively discusses his sensational return to the Liga giants, the World Cup and whether England can finally end 60 years of hurt, and some of the joyous, and panful, experiences he's had in management to date. Mourinho also chats openly about his time at Tottenham, and the controversial nature of his sacking just days before the League Cup final, among many other intriguing topics in a must-see episode of the award-winning podcast.
Jurgen Klopp has revealed himself to be an enthusiastic observer at the 2026 World Cup, praising the continued dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The former Liverpool manager was deeply impressed by the way the two veteran stars continue to shape the tournament despite their advanced age.
Lionel Messi has seen many tributes throughout his legendary career, but his latest monument in Argentina truly stands above the rest. Ahead of his 39th birthday, the Inter Miami star has been immortalised with a staggering 85-foot statue in the Patagonian town of Cutral Co.
Lionel Messi has left the door open for a sensational appearance at the 2030 World Cup after cementing his legacy as the greatest goalscorer in the history of the competition. The Argentina icon, currently leading the Albiceleste's charge at the 2026 tournament in North America, recently surpassed Miroslav Klose to take his total tally to 18 goals across six editions.
Lionel Messi has proven that age is just a number by showcasing his incredible physical condition while on international duty with Argentina. The legendary forward, who officially turns 39 today, shared a glimpse into his rigorous training regime as the defending champions continue their quest for glory at the 2026 World Cup.
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.
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.
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