Cristiano Ronaldo retains the ability to make “people shut their mouth”, Louis Saha has told GOAL, with a former Manchester United team-mate of CR7 explaining why the Portuguese superstar attracts more criticism than fellow GOAT Lionel Messi. Both men are currently on 2026 World Cup duty, with more questions being put to an evergreen European frontman than his eternal South American rival is facing.
Lionel Scaloni has defended Argentina's attacking variety ahead of their World Cup knockout opener against tournament surprise package Cape Verde in Miami. The manager insists he remains completely unconcerned by his talismanic captain's heavy goalscoring burden, despite the veteran forward netting six goals during the group stage.
Anthony Gordon has heaped immense praise on England team-mate Harry Kane, claiming the striker is currently operating at a level comparable to Lionel Messi. Gordon's comments follow Kane's dramatic late brace that rescued England from a shock World Cup exit against DR Congo, highlighting his consistency and elite mindset on the biggest international stage.
Comprehensive match preview of Argentina vs Cabo Verde at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more ahead of this round of 32 clash in Miami.
The USMNT's victory over Bosnia was overshadowed by Folarin Balogun's controversial red card, with Mauricio Pochettino insisting the striker's challenge was accidental. Alexi Lalas also questioned why a similar incident involving Lionel Messi earlier in the tournament went unpunished, sparking accusations of inconsistent officiating.
Andres Iniesta has backed Lamine Yamal to guide Spain to a second World Cup star, despite the teenager battling injury issues. Iniesta also highlighted the brilliance of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, who lead the scoring charts. Spain have progressed to face Austria, while France have already reached the last 16 in a highly unpredictable tournament.
Former Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has paid a glowing tribute to the historic rivalry between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Bayern Munich icon believes the two superstars created a unique standard of consistency that world football will never witness again, as both legends continue their historic battle at the World Cup.
Spain midfielder Gavi has delivered the ultimate compliment to his Barcelona and international team-mate Lamine Yamal, claiming the 18-year-old sensation is the finest player in world football when excluding Lionel Messi. The duo are chasing World Cup glory, with Gavi backing the recovering winger to handle the immense pressure during their knockout campaign.
England icon John Barnes has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo's attitude could derail Portugal in the World Cup knockout stages, describing the situation as an accident waiting to happen. In contrast, Barnes praised Lionel Messi, highlighting how the Argentina captain's humble nature unites his team-mates, unlike Ronaldo who creates tension when things do not go his way.
Lionel Messi has proven he is a superhero on the pitch for decades, but the legendary Argentine has now taken things a step further by appearing alongside Tom Holland in a viral crossover. The Inter Miami star features in a hilarious new teaser for the upcoming Marvel blockbuster Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
The Golden Boot may not always lead to team success, but the race for the individual award this summer might be one of the most compelling in recent memory
Lionel Scaloni is set to extend his legendary tenure as Argentina head coach after reportedly reaching a verbal agreement to remain in charge until 2031. The news comes as the Albiceleste prepare for their 2026 World Cup knockout clash against Cape Verde in Miami.
Major League Soccer is set to welcome another global icon as Robert Lewandowski has reached an agreement to join the Chicago Fire. The legendary Polish striker is in line for a free transfer to the United States following the conclusion of his trophy-laden spell with Barcelona.
Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has been warned that he still has plenty to prove on the international stage despite his meteoric rise at Barcelona. Argentina legend Mario Kempes has challenged the teenager to replicate his club form at the World Cup if he wants to be considered a true superstar of the game.
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