Nojima Stella Overview

World Cup's unfair format plays right into Infantino's hands

June 25, 1982 was, according to The Times, "the day that sportsmanship died". What was expected to be a fiercely competitive fixture between West Germany and Austria became a 'non-aggression pact' between two teams who effectively stopped playing during the second half of their World Cup group game in Gijon to ensure that both progressed to the second round.

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings: Vinicius boosts his chances

The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars

WC26 Power Rankings: Can anyone stop Messi & Argentina?

The first two rounds of 2026 World Cup group-stage fixtures are in the books, and the tournament continues to provide plenty of thrilling moments. Despite a lack of eye-catching fixtures on paper in the new, expanded format, there has been drama aplenty, with all the big names showing up for their respective countries on football's biggest stage.

Jordan v Algeria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

Insane: this country benefits from a defeat in the final group match at the World Cup

Algeria vs Austria FIFA World Cup 2026 preview

Comprehensive match preview of Algeria vs Austria at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more.

Argentina v Austria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

'I knew this could happen' - Romero speaks out on injury scare

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.