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Vozinha reveals Messi praise after Argentina clash

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has opened up about a touching exchange with Lionel Messi following his side's heartbreaking World Cup exit at the hands of Argentina. Despite the minnows falling to a narrow defeat, the shot-stopper’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed by the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

How to get Argentina vs Egypt World Cup tickets?

Argentina and Egypt have made it to the Round of 16 stage. Here's how you can secure your World Cup tickets.

Jordan v Argentina: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

What's Argentina's route to the World Cup Final?

Where will the defending World Cup winners be playing and who might they face if they go all the way to the Final

Argentina v Cabo Verde: Round of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026

'They kick the crap out of me!' - Messi jokes about rough Cape Verde treatment

Lionel Messi laughed off the physical treatment he received from Cape Verde after Argentina edged into the World Cup last 16. The Albiceleste captain joked that his opponents "kick the crap" out of him before asking for shirts and selfies, while also admitting his side fell below their usual standards.

World Cup Golden Boot standings: Messi moves onto seven

The 2026 World Cup is well underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long and winding road to be navigated as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL tracks the tournament's most prolific stars.

Romero to the rescue as Messi's Argentina suffer massive scare

Cristian Romero scored an extra-time winner, Lionel Messi grabbed a goal, but Argentina were given a real scare by Cape Verde in an uncomfortable 3-2 win to advance to the World Cup Round of 16. Argentina surrendered the lead twice, and needed extra time to finally gain daylight from a Cape Verde side that, in truth, deserved so much more.

Argentina FIFA World Cup 26 Mac Allister

Argentina FIFA World Cup 2026 kits

From 1978 to 2022, Argentina’s 2026 home kit honours World Cup history.

Why Kane becoming Messi-esque for England is a good thing

Harry Kane has become Lionel Messi-esque for England in terms of his value to the collective cause, with Stan Collymore explaining to GOAL why that is a good thing and how the Three Lions’ record goalscorer is benefitting from a mindset that others have lacked. The prolific Bayern Munich frontman is leading another bid for World Cup glory at present, with a star-studded squad often being carried on his back.

Cristiano Ronaldo Lionel Messi 2026 World Cup Portugal Argentina

Explained: Why Ronaldo gets more criticism than Messi

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.

Scaloni addresses Messi reliance ahead of Cape Verde tie

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.

Gordon suggests Kane is playing at Messi's level

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.

Michael Olise: A 2026 World Cup Golden Ball value bet

With 5 assists in 4 games, including a bicycle kick off the post, Michael Olise is France’s 2026 World Cup star. His Golden Ball odds are tempting.

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot Odds: Top Goalscorer predictions

After strong starts to the tournament, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe lead the way in the World Cup 2026 Golden Boot odds.

World Cup Golden Ball Power Rankings: Messi in at No.1

The 2026 World Cup is underway as those still in contention fight it out for the universally coveted trophy. While the collective prize is the main objective for all competitors, some are already making their claim as the best player of the entire tournament. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are currently the top candidates, but they face intense competition as we go further into the knockout rounds.

Argentina vs Cabo Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 preview

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.

USA v Bosnia and Herzegovina: Round Of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026

Balogun red card sparks Messi comparison as USMNT fume

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.

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World Cup 2026 Golden Ball odds: Best player predictions

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