Gianni Infantino is facing explosive allegations of blackmail from the head of the Jordan Football Association as his grip on the FIFA presidency continues to weaken. The stunning claims arrive just days after the Swiss administrator was forced into a humiliating retreat over plans to sell off billion-dollar stakes in the World Cup.
Four nations made debuts at the 2026 World Cup, with Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan gracing the grandest stage in international football for the first time. It was the tournament with the most newcomers since 2006 and Cape Verde achieved the feat of ending a 16-year wait for a debutant to reach the knockout stages, before succumbing to Lionel Messi's Argentina in a classic.
Lionel Messi proved once again why he is the ultimate team player, opting to start on the bench during Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan to allow his team-mates valuable minutes on the pitch. Despite his limited time, the Inter Miami star still managed to find the net with a stunning free-kick, further extending his record-breaking tally on the world stage.
Lionel Messi continues to rewrite the history books after producing yet another moment of magic to secure a new World Cup record during Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan. The Inter Miami superstar came off the bench to score a sensational free-kick, leaving the opposition goalkeeper completely bamboozled in Arlington.
Lionel Messi expressed his joy after solidifying his status as the definitive World Cup icon after guiding Argentina to a perfect group stage finish at the 2026 finals. The Inter Miami superstar came off the bench to secure a 3-1 victory over Jordan, ensuring the holders head into the knockout rounds with maximum momentum.
If this is Lionel Messiâs final World Cup, he seems determined to leave with every attacking record he can. The Argentina icon became the first player in tournament history to score in seven straight games, icing a closer-than-expected 3-1 win over a determined Jordan side. Manager Lionel Scaloni also found more attacking answers, with Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro MartĂnez joining in the scoring.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Amine Gouiri struck late as Algeria came from behind to beat Jordan 2-1 in a crucial Group J clash in San Francisco. The Desert Warriors responded after a disappointing first half and turned the game around through set-piece goals. Jordan's defeat confirms their elimination from the tournament on their World Cup debut.
Former Inter and Stoke striker Marko Arnautovic was on target as Austria secured their first World Cup victory in 28 years with a hard-fought 3-1 win over debutants Jordan at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium. Ralf Rangnick's side relied on a mix of individual brilliance and late drama to navigate a tricky Group J opener in Santa Clara.
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Four nations will debut at the World Cup this summer, with Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan all set to grace the grandest stage in international football for the first time. It's 16 years since a newcomer made it into the knockout stages of the tournament, when Slovakia stunned holders Italy to eliminate them in South Africa. So do any of this year's debutants have the potential to replicate such heroics?
Jordan
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