Osijek Overview

'Monumental' Messi fully fit for Argentina's World Cup opener

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martinez and Julian Alvarez have all successfully shaken off recent injury concerns to be available for the country's 2026 World Cup opener. Scaloni talked up the importance of "monumental" Inter Miami star Messi ahead of the Group J clash against Algeria.

Argentina must trust in youth to give Messi perfect send-off

Lionel Scaloni’s record as Argentina manager is flawless. Three tournaments, three trophies won, with La Albiceleste’s 2022 World Cup triumph sandwiched between successive Copa America wins in 2021 and 2024. For a coach in his first managerial role, that is unprecedented.

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings

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

Fernandez dreams of succeeding Messi as Argentina captain

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has set his sights on a major leadership role with the Argentina national team, admitting he dreams of one day wearing the captain’s armband currently held by Lionel Messi. The former Benfica star has become a pillar of the Albiceleste midfield since his breakout performance at the 2022 World Cup.

From kafta to steak: NYC's final World Cup food guide

From Algeria's seafood platters to Argentina's famed steakhouses, GOAL's final NYC World Cup food guide explores fan favorites from Groups J, K and L.

‘Messi's welcome to it’ - Klose happy to pass goal record to GOAT

Germany legend Miroslav Klose expects his iconic World Cup goal-scoring record to be shattered during the current tournament cycle in North America. The former striker feels the expanded tournament format provides the perfect platform for elite forwards to surpass his historic tally, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe leading the chase.