Erling Haaland gave a classy pep talk to Moldova goalkeeper Cristian Avram after Norway scored 11 goals past him in a World Cup qualifying game. The Manchester City star scored five and provided an assist as Norway took a step closer to qualifying for the 2026 tournament. The Norwegian bagged his fifth international hat-trick and took his goals tally to 48 in 45 matches for Norway.
Barcelona star Raphinha is reportedly "furious" at Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti for playing him against Bolivia, with World Cup qualification already assured.
Lionel Messi bagged a career first achievement despite missing Argentina's final World Cup qualifying game against Ecuador. After an emotional outing on home soil against Venezuela last week, Messi travelled for the Ecuador clash but was granted a rest by Lionel Scaloni. Argentina lost 1-0, but Messi still finished as the overall top scorer in the CONMEBOL qualifying campaign.
Lionel Messi and Argentina have been dealt a major blow with Nicolas Otamendi now suspended for their 2026 World Cup opener after picking up a red card in their final qualifying match against Ecuador. The experienced defender was sent off for a reckless tackle in the 1-0 defeat, but Argentina still finished at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table.
Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi was hailed as the "best team-mate" by Thomas Tuchel after his heroics for England following his failed transfer to Liverpool last week. Guehi was on the verge of securing a move to Anfield on deadline day but Palace pulled the plug on the deal in the 11th hour. Despite the disappointment, Guehi gave his best for the Three Lions and scored in their thumping 5-0 win over Serbia.