World Cup

World Cup news

Portugal v Congo DR: Group K - FIFA World Cup 2026

Owen backs Ronaldo to 'shut up' critics & match Messi's hat-trick exploits

Former England striker Michael Owen has passionately defended Cristiano Ronaldo following Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. Despite facing heavy scrutiny for his subdued performance, which came in stark contrast to Lionel Messi's hat-trick heroics for Argentina against Algeria, Owen insists the Al-Nassr striker remains a big-game player and has backed him to "shut up" his critics.

Spain v Saudi Arabia: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

'We've arrived!' - Yamal reacts to 'dream' first World Cup goal for Spain

Lamine Yamal heralded the official "arrival" of Spain at the 2026 World Cup after netting his first-ever goal in the tournament during a 4-0 thumping of Saudi Arabia. The Barcelona sensation admitted that the squad were motivated to bounce back from their opening draw against Cape Verde and prove they remain genuine contenders for the global crown.

Spain v Saudi Arabia: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

'I absolutely love him' - Yamal given 'crazy' praise by Rooney

Wayne Rooney has heaped massive praise on Lamine Yamal after the Barcelona youngster inspired Spain to a dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup. The teenage sensation scored his first tournament goal within 10 minutes, and Manchester United legend Rooney was left completely amazed by his overall impact before he was taken off at half-time.

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‘Simply the perfect footballer’ - Messi leaves De Jong in awe

Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong has opened up about his deep admiration for Lionel Messi, describing the Argentine legend as the "perfect footballer". The Barcelona star reflected on his childhood days watching Messi shine under Pep Guardiola, revealing how incredibly special it felt to eventually share the pitch with his idol during their time together at Camp Nou.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Conceicao insists Portugal players 'don't feel obligation' to pass to CR7

Francisco Conceicao has insisted that Portugal players do not feel "obligated" to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking ahead of their crucial clash against Uzbekistan, the Juventus winger insisted the veteran striker is simply part of the collective group aiming to bounce back and succeed on the grandest stage in international football.

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Bayern & France assist king Olise reveals his favourite position

Michael Olise has established himself as one of the best wingers in world football for Bayern Munich and France, but the talented attacker has surprisingly revealed that playing out wide is not his preferred role. The 24-year-old, who is currently starring at the 2026 World Cup, explained that he feels most comfortable and natural operating centrally as a traditional number 10.

Belgium v Egypt: Group G - FIFA World Cup 2026

Egypt boss reacts to Salah rift talk after subbing Liverpool icon vs Belgium

Egypt manager Hossam Hassan has moved quickly to dismiss rumours of a rift with captain Mohamed Salah after substituting the former Liverpool superstar during their opening 2026 World Cup fixture against Belgium. Salah was surprisingly taken off in the 76th minute with the match tied at 1-1, prompting widespread speculation of a fallout between the talisman and his coach.

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‘I’ll end up there’ - Yamal makes Messi-themed prediction

Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal has predicted that he will eventually transition into a central role, following in the tactical footsteps of club legend Lionel Messi. The 18-year-old high-flyer is currently tearing up the wings for club and country but believes moving inside is inevitable to escape the constant triple-marking he faces.

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Why Ronaldo is immune to criticism - Dalot explains support

Diogo Dalot has revealed that the Portugal squad held a detailed meeting before the World Cup to prepare for the inevitable social media backlash that follows any Cristiano Ronaldo performance. Despite the outside noise following a disappointing opening result, the Manchester United defender insists the group remains "unshakable" in their support for their captain.

England v Croatia: Group L - FIFA World Cup 2026

Is Rice injured? England star reveals secret 'pain' battle

Declan Rice has revealed he has been playing through secret "neural pain" since December, but insists he is fully fit for England’s second World Cup group game against Ghana. The Arsenal midfielder was seen nursing his hamstring during the Three Lions' 4-2 victory over Croatia, sparking fears that Thomas Tuchel could be without one of his most vital assets.

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr

📽️ | Pool party & doughnut cake! Ronaldo Jr enjoys birthday

Cristiano Ronaldo Jr has reached a major milestone, celebrating his 16th birthday with a lavish garden party organised by Georgina Rodriguez. While his father was busy preparing for Portugal's quest for glory on the international stage, the Al-Nassr academy prospect enjoyed a day filled with unique surprises and family tributes.

Lamine Yamal Lionel Messi

Yamal & Messi comparisons a ‘mistake’, says Spain boss

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has warned that comparing Lamine Yamal to footballing icons like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona is a "mistake" that could hinder the teenager's development. Despite the caution, the La Roja boss admitted the Barcelona star belongs in a rare category of "geniuses" alongside historical figures like Michelangelo and Salvador Dali.

Declan Rice England 2026 World Cup

‘Most annoying man’ responsible for Rice on corner duties

Arsenal's set-piece revolution shows the masterplan behind their dominance has now gone international. While the Gunners' prowess from dead-ball situations has been a hallmark of Mikel Arteta's tactical setup, it is the specific transformation of Declan Rice into a corner-kick specialist that is currently paying dividends for both club and country.

Neymar Treino Brasil

📽️ | Neymar back in Brazil training for Scotland clash

Brazil have received a massive boost at the 2026 World Cup as talismanic forward Neymar has returned to the training pitch. After missing the first two fixtures due to a calf problem, the Santos superstar is now being fast-tracked for a return to action in the final Group C match against Scotland.

Bellingham's chip on shoulder

Jude's 'chip on his shoulder' bad news for England's rivals

Jude Bellingham took it all in after the full-time whistle had blown. He looked up at the stands, an impressive wall of England fans who had travelled 'across the pond' into the boiling metropolis of Dallas, and the supporters were singing. Oasis' 'Wonderwall' filled the air - helped by the acoustics at the indoor Dallas Stadium - and Bellingham allowed a brief smile to flicker across his lips. He had made the difference against Croatia, and he knew it.