2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: A pair of Lionel Messi assists helped Argentina score 2 goals in 7 minutes as Argentina came from a goal down to beat England in the Semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and will nowadvance to the final where they will face Lamine Yamal and Spain at the MetLife stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. In a very volatile first half where there were more than 15 fouls committed and no single attempt on target, Some mazy running by Jude Bellingham led to a free kick which John Stones headed wide while Enzo Fernandez's powerful effort sailed over the goal. Immediately after the restart, Julian Alvarez tested Jordan Pickford at the near post but it was The Three Lions who took the lead in the 55th minute, Declan Rice released Morgan Rodgers on the right who unleashed the perfect cross to the far post which Anthony Gordon was able to guide home from close range. The goal seemed to have motivated Argentina as Pickford had to make a wonderful save to prevent Nico Gonzalez from heading home Lionel Messi's cross. Alexis McAllister also headed against the bar from a Rodrigo De Paul cross before Enzo Fernandez tested Pickford and the Everton keeper tipped the ball away. From the resulting short corner, Messi laid the ball off to Fernandez and his wonderful strike from outside the box sailed past Pickford who couldn't get his hands on the ball. The winner came in the 92nd minute after a short clearance by Djed Spence was picked up by Lionel Messi who crossed to an unmarked Lauturo Martinez who headed into the net to send joyous celebration amongst Argentinian fans. England couldn't respond and Argentina saw out the result. England will fCe France in the third place match on 18th of July while Argentina and Spain would trade battle in the final on the 19th of July.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Spain have qualified for the World Cup final for the first time in 16 years since they won the mundial in 2010 after beating France 2-0 which was their first Knockout win since the 2010 final. The first chance of the game fell to Kylian Mbappe after a Ousmane Dembele through ball but a combination of Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubrasi teamed up to stop him. Spain grabbed the opener in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal nicked the ball from Lucas Digne before being fouled by the new PSG left back, Mikel Oyarzabal dispatched the penalty to give Spain the lead. William Saliba had to leave the game with a back injury while Unai Simon had to rush off his line to stop Mbappe after a Rabiot through ball released the Real Madrid man. After the restart, Deschamps brought in Manu Kone and Desire Doue but it was Spain who took the lead in the 75th minute after a beautiful interchange of play between Porro and Dani Olmo released the Tottenham Right back who buried the ball past Mike Miagnan. Lamine Yamal thought he has scored but the goal was ruled off for marginal offside. Aurélien Tchouameni flicked the ball over the crossbar before Marc Cucurella deflected Mbappe's shot wide. Spain were able to see the game out even as Doue was unable to punish Unai Simon errant headed clearance. This was Spain's 6th clean sheet in the 7 games they've played at the current World Cup. They will await the winner of the game between Argentina and England in the final which takes place at the MetLife stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey on the 19th of July.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Jude Bellingham produced on of his finest footballing displays as his 2 goals helped England come from behind to beat Norway 2-1 and qualify for the Semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup where they await the winners of fixture between Argentina and Switzerland. The sweltering Miami Sun did nothing to heat up both team's attack early on as the first chance of the game didn't come until the 19th minute when Jude Bellingham headed wide from an Elliot Anderson cross. Stãle Solbakken's side took the lead in the 36th minute when Andreas Schjeldrup's cross flew in over Jordan Pickford in goal. The goal seem to motivate Norway to go for more as Alelxander Sorloth headed over and Martin Odegaard tested Pickford at the near post which was saved by the England goalkeeper. England equalized in controversial fashion as Orjan Nyland goal kick seemed to hit one of the camera cables before falling to Anthony Gordon who hit Bellingham in stride as he stroked the ball past Nyland into the net. England started the 2nd half shaky as Picford had to save from Sorloth as well as a Haaland header. Norway thought they had taken the lead again in the 55th minute after Torbjorn Heggem scored from a corner kick but it was ultimately ruled off for a foul by Erling Haaland on his teammate at Manchester City next season, Elliot Anderson. Kristoffer Ajer's header from a corner hit the post with 14 minutes left to play in regulation time. England ultimately took the lead 3 minutes into Extra time as a speculative shot by Morgan Rodgers was parried into the path of Bellingham by Nyland and the Real Madrid Midfielder wasted no time in burying the ball into the back of the net. 7 minutes later, England were initially awarded a penalty after Heggem seemed to have brought down Djed Spence from behind but VAR overturned the decision. Nyland had to pull off a double save from Spence and Saka to keep the Norwegian Vikings in the game. England were able to hold on for the win and qualify for their 4th ever Semi-final in World Cup history. It's an England VS Argentina Semi-final after the Albiceleste beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to clinch the remaining Semi-final slot. Argentina realized they had to come out blazing and did just that when they took the lead in the 10th minute after an outswinging corner by Lionel Messi was glanced home by Alexis McAllister. Djibril Sow had his long-range effort comfortably saved by Emi Martinez. The Rossoctociati started to apply pressure in the final third as Breel Embolo raced through on goal after a lovely through pass by Dan Ndoye only to be tackled by an out sprinting Martinez. Murat Yakin's men continued to see more of the ball for the rest of the 1st half as Argentina were content with sitting back and utilizing the counter attack. After the restart, Nahuel Molina dragged a shot wide while a last ditch tackle by Lisandro Martinez stopped Ndoye from certainly scoring. After Martinez denied Embolo and Granit Xhaka in quick succession, Switzerland equalized in the 67th minute after a nice interchange of passes betwén Ricardo Rodriguez and Ndoye saw the Nottingham Forest winger bury the ball between Martinez's leg. Shortly after, Embolo was sent off for simulation after he dived to force the referee to give Leandro Paredes a yellow card but after VAR review, it was rescinded and the yellow was awarded to Embolo which was his 2md of the game and was subsequently sent off. Switzerland were able to see out the remaining time in regulation thereby forcing extra time. The one way traffic of Argentina seeing most of the ball continued into Extra time but Argentina finally broke the deadlock in the 112 minute after a curling shot from outside the box by Julian Alvarez from the left beat the impressive Gregory Kobel in goal for Switzerland. In the final minutes of extra time, Xhaka lost the ball which allowed Thiago Almada to race through on goal, his effort saved by Kobel but he rebound fell to Lautauro Martinez who wasted no time butting the ball in the back of the net. The win ensures that it is Argentina who will be facing England on Wednesday.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: France absolutely dominated Morocco in the first Quater-final game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after repeating the scoreline from 4 years ago in their semi-final bout from 2022 FIFA World Cup. Thanks to goals from talisman Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele helped Les Blues to progress to the Semi-final. France started the game on the front foot after Bono had to scramble to his near post to push away Kylian Mbappe's low drive. Bono had to also save a lfrom Dayot Upemecano's downward header from the subsequent corner. Noussair Mazaraoui brought down Mbappe in the box and had to wait for 3 minutes , Bono saved Mbappe's weak penalty. France continued to probe without any reward after the restart till Mbappe's gave France the lead in the 60th minute for his 8th goal of the tournament. The Real Madrid striker received the ball from Desire Doue before using Issa Diop to shape a shot past Bono and into the met. 6 minutes after, Ousmane Dembele doubled France's lead after a lovely interchange with Mbappe and a mazy run see his shot beat Bono despite the Moroccan keeper getting a hand on the ball. Mike Miagnan and his defenders dealt with a late Moroccan surge as the African side pushed for a a goal. This win sees France qualifying for the semi-final where they await the winner of the clash between Noral 98 was a cagey and you are beyond Courtois ⁸way and England,
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Argentina scored 3 goals in 13 minutes to come from a 2-0 deficit to beat Egypt 3-2 and qualify for the Quarter-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will await the winner of the clash between Switzerland and Colombia. After a cagey start where both teams were being cautious, Egypt took the lead in the 15th minute with the first shot of the game as Yasser Ibrahim headed home a delicious cross as he was played in by Lisandro Martinez. A clumsy challenge in the Egyptian box by Haissem Hassan gave La Albiceleste a chance to pull level but Mostafa Shobeir saved Lionel Messi's penalty as the Argentine became the first player to miss 2 penalties in a world cup tournament excluding shootouts. Argentina piled on the pressure as Alexis McAllister saw his header saved by the impressive Shobeir. Julian Alvarez almost equalized but the ever impressive Shobeir pulled off an amazing reactionary save. After the restart, Argentina kept piling on the pressure upfront while leaving the backline open. Egypt thought they had doubled the lead as a beautiful outside-of-the-boot pass by Salah released Mostafa Zico who buried the ball in the net but the goal was chalked off by VAR for a foul in the buildup. Egypt did score again as Salah released Haissem Hassan and his square pass found Zico who scored. The defending champions were 2 goals down but pulled one back in the 79th minute as Christian Romero connected with a delicious Lionel Messi delivery. Argentina pulled level in the 83rd minute via the irrepressible Lionel Messi whose effort from the edge of the box was too much for Shobeir to deal with. Argentina scored the winning goal in the 92nd minute after Lauturo Martinez had enough space to cross and find Enzo Fernandez to score the goal that took Argentina through even though Egypt felt they should have been awarded a penalty in the build-up to the goal. Argentina are still on track to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to defend their World Cup trophy. Switzerland defeated Colombia on penalties after a 0-0 scoreline in normal and extra-time, the Swiss won 4-3 on penalties with Davidson Sanchez and Cucho Hernandez both missing their penalties for Colombia. Switzerland will now face Argentina in the Quarter-final of the competition. Both teams started out playing some incisive and exciting football but Colombia was having the upper hand due to the fact that Granit Xhaka struggled to settle into the game due to the attention Jefferson Lerma was paying to him. Borrusia Dortmund's Gregory Kobel flying save kept out Gustavo Puerta curling shot. In the opposite goal, Camilo Vargas had to palm away Fabian Reider's left footed drive as well as Dan Ndoye left footed shot. Halftime substitute Djibril Sow slipped at the most inopportune moment as the Swiss attempted to break the deadlock in the 2nd half. Both teams were evenly matched as Luiz Diaz had another attempt easily dealt with by Gregory Kobel. Colombia felt they should have had an early penalty in extra time, Jhon Lucumi was unfortunate to see his towering header come off the crossbar. Zeki Amdouni also forced a wonderful save from Vargas. Granit Xhaka and Jaminton Campaz must be wondering how they missed gilt-edged chances before the penalty shootout. Davidson Sanchez gave the Swiss the edge after blazing his spotkick against the bar but was wiped off after Manuel Akanji skied a wayward penalty. Gregory Kobel's save from Cucho Hernandez gave Reuben Vargas the opportunity to send Switzerland through to face Argentina in the next round.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: European champions Spain beat Austria 3-0 in a dominating performance as they progressed to the Round of 16 and will be facing the winner of the Portugal VS Croatia match. Early in the game, both teams were able to get behind each other defences but as the game progressed, Spain started to gain control of the game. Spain had the ball in the net after the hydration break but VAR ruled it as a foul by Pau Cubrasi after he jumped into Alexander Schlager. Schlager was forced into another save after tipping another Oyarzabal effort over the bar. Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead in the 36th minute after he slotted home from a low cross by Marc Cucurella. Alex Baena's free kick hit the bar on the stroke of half time. It was more of the same in the 2nd half , as Spain dominated possession and Austria maintained the element of fast breaks. Spain doubled their lead in the 66th minute from an unlikely source as Pedro Porro was on hand to head home an Alex Baena cross Oyarzabal put the icing on the cake as he cooly converted another Marc Cucurella cross late in the game. They will now play the winner of the game between Portugal and Croatia in the Round of 16. Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 thanks to Goncalo Ramos 94th minute winner and will now face Spain in an all Iberian battle in the Round of 16. Dominic Livakovic was called into action as early as the 4th minute as he saved from a Bruno Fernandes shot after a lightning fast break. Cristiano Ronaldo's free kick could only hit the wall while Renato Viega couldn't direct his free header goalwards. Despite Portugal having most possession and creating multiple chances, the score remains goalless till the interval. Portugal almost took the lead early in the 2nd half through Nuno Mendes after a long purposeful run. Croatia grabbed the opener after a sustained level of pressure by them as Ivan Perisic was left all alone at the far post and his shot beat Diogo Costa and in the process, he became Croatia's all time leading scorer at the World Cup surpassing the great Davor Suker. Costa was forced to make another save from Petr Susic before the offisde a flag saved Portugal from conceding another goal. Ronaldo had the ball in the net but was ruled off for offside. Roberto Martinez made 4 substitutions on the hour mark as Portugal finally equalized after Renato Viega was hauled down by Nikola Vlasic and Ronaldo stepped up to bury the penalty with aplomb. There was 10 minutes of added time in the 2nd half and it was filled with a lot of drama. First, Goncalo Ramos scored in the 94th minute to give Portugal the lead for the first time after glancing home a Rafael Leao cross. Then, in the 13th minute of added time, Josko Gvardiol looked to have equalized for Croatiaonly for VAR to rule it off for offside which allowed Portugal to grab the win. They will now take on Spain in Dallas for a. Place in the Quarter-finals of the competition. Switzerland beat Algeria 2-0 at the BC Place in Vancouver to qualify for the Round of 16. Since conceding a late goat to Qatar in their first game, they've since beaten Bosnia & Herzegovina (4-1) and Canada (2-1). The will now face the winner of the Colombia Vs Ghana game in the Round of 16. Algeria started on the front foot and had the fist chance of the game but Houssem Aouar fired wide from a promising position. Algeria were made to pay for their mistake as Switzerland took the lead in the 10th minute through Breel Embolo after an amazing run by youngster Johan Mazambi took him to the byline before expertly crossing into the 6 yards box for Embolo to tap in for his 2nd goal of the tournament. The rest of the 1st half was devoid of clear cut chances; Dennis Zakaria headed wide while Fares Chaibi had his shot comfortably dealt with by Gregory Kobel in goal for Switzerland. The best chance of the 1st half for Algeria fell to Ibrahim Mazza but lack of composure saw him shoot wide. A minute into the 2nd half, Switzerland doubled their lead as a terrible clearance by Algeria fell to Dan Ndoye who made no mistake from 15 yards out. The goal knocked Algeria off and they couldn't generate any sustained pressure in the 2nd half as Switzerland were able to see the game out and qualify for the next round.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Harry Kane produced a Captain's display as he brought England back from the brink of defeat as they beat DR Congo 2-1. Kane scored 2 goals to take his World Cup tally to 13 goals, 1 more than Brazilian legend Pele. DR Congo took a surprise lead in the 7th minute as a cross field pass by Congo captain Chancel Mbemba found Brian Cipenga who cut in and beat Jordan Pickford at the near post. England's response was a little timid as Declan Rice free kick hit the unknowing Ezri Konsa before looping over the bar. The hydration break helped England to regroup and they created a clear cut chance but Marcus Rashford's shot from a Noni Madueke's cut back was cleared off the line by his former Manchester United teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Harry Kane who had been silent before felt he was brought down by Lionel Mpazi-Nzau but the referee and VAR thought otherwise. Kame then saw his thunderous volley at the near post pushed away by Mpazi-Nzau. England finally grabbed an equalizer with 15 minutes left to play as their talismanic captain was on hand to head home a cross by Anthony Gordon. Gordon then assisted the winner as he cushioned the ball onto Kane's feet before the striker fired an unstoppable shot into the net. The win ensures that the Three Lions will face Co-host Mexico in the Round of 16 in Mexico City. Belgium came from a 2 goals deficit to beat African side Senegal 3-2 after Extra time. This was reminiscent of Belgium's triumph over Japan in the 2018 edition where Belgium had to go from 2 goals down to win 3-2. After an early chance fell to Leandro Trossard, Senegal seemed to have gained some momentum as Ismaila Sarr hooked shot hit the post. Senegal took the lead as the ball fell to Habib Diarra after Sarr's header came off the woodwork, Diarra taps the rebound ball into an empty noise. Senegal doubled the lead with Ismaila Sarr taking down Moussa Niakhite's long ball in his stride before dispatching a clinical strike beyond Courtois. This was Sarr's 4th goal of the campaign, the most by an African player since Roger Milla had 4 in 1990. Romelu Lukaku halved the deficit in the 86th minute after applying an instinctive near post finish from a Thomas Meunier. Youri Tielemans found the equalizer 3 minutes later as he beat Goalkeeper Diaw to Trossard's cross. In extra time, Senegal regained momentum and almost got the lead but Ibrahim Mbaye first time shot flew inches wide. Dodi Lukebakio almost got the winner but it clipped the bar before Said Martinez pointed to the spot after VAR had adjusted that Lamine Camara had fouled Tielemans in the box. Tielemans stepped up to slot the penalty into the net. All efforts by Senegal to find an equalizer proved abortive. The wins ensures that Belgium will face the winner of the Round of 32 fixture between USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina. USA beat Bosnia & Herzegovina 2-0 despite having to play with a numerical disadvantage for the last 30 minutes of the game. The Americans finally pulled off a win against an European team in their last 13 matches against them. The Americans were under pressure from the onset of the game and goalkeeper Matt Freese was called into action in the 10th minute as he had to make a save from an Ermedin Demirovic shot. USA steadily grew into the match and had the ball in the net in the 30th minute as they forced a lost ball high up the pitch, Weston McKinnie fed the ball to Folarin Balogun who touched the ball past Nikola Katic in goals for the Bosnians but he happened to be in an offside position. The US striker would not be denied his third goal of the tournament as he finally opened the scoring in the stroke of half time as he latched on a twice deflected ball to shoot through the legs of Nikola Vasilj. He almost doubled the lead before halftime but his shot hit the crossbar from a Serginho Dest knockdown. After the restart, Bosnia were dealt a big blow as team captain Edzin Dzeko was forced off with an injury which allowed the coach to make a triple substitution. In the 64th minute, Folarin Balogun was sent off after VAR adjudged that he should be sent off for a dangerous challenge on Tarik Muharemovic. Despite the numerical advantage, the Bosnians struggled to create any chances against the stubborn Americans and in the 82nd minute, the game was put to bed by Malik Tilman who fired home a dipping Free-kick despite Vasilj getting a hand to it. The win sees the USA facing Belgium in the Round of 16 for a repeat of their 2014 clash, a game where American goalkeeper Tim Howard made a record number of saves (15) in tournament history.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Norway became the first European team to qualify for the Round of 16 as they defeated African side Ivory Coast 2-1 at the AT & T stadium in Texas. Norway started in the front foot with Erling Haaland getting his first chance in minutes but his header was easily blocked. Ivory Coast started to grow into the game and Nicholas Pepe had the best chance but he couldn't find either a teammate or the target after being set up at the far post by Yan Diomande. Norway took the lead in the 39th minute when RB Leipzig's Antonio Nusa drifted in from the left and unleashed a curling strike beyond Yahia Fofana in goal for the Ivorians. Haaland had another chance in the stroke of half time as he went close to connecting with Alexander Sorloth's flick on. In the 2nd half, Nicholas Pepe tested Orjan Nyland with a well struck effort at the far post before Sander Berge almost doubled Norway's lead but his inadvertent shot bounced safely into Fofana's hands. In the 74th minute, Ivory Coast levelled the score after a beautiful interchange of passes between Amad Diallo and Nicholas Pepe saw the Manchester United winger dance through the Norwegian defence before slamming the ball past Nyland. Norway grabbed the winning goal 86th minute after Patrick Berg ran onto Oscar Bobb's through pass before squaring for Haaland to tap into the net. All efforts by the Ivorians to grab another equalizer proved abortive and Norway were able to see the game out. Stale Solbakken's side will face Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil in the Round of 16. Norway happens to be the only team Brazil have never beaten in international football. Kylian Mbappe was the star of the show while Micheal Olise was the main orchestrator as France beat Sweden 3-0 at the MetLife stadium in New Jersey, venue of the final of the World Cup. The game started with a bunch of whistles as both teams were giving away a bunch of fouls. Alexander Isak's 3ed minute attempt gave fans a view of what was to come. Mbappe had the ball in the back of the net on the 21st minute, after racing behind the Swedish backline but the goal was chalked off for offside. As Sweden was willing to sit behind and give France the ball, France started to create multiple chances with both Kylian Mbappe and Micheal Olise hitting the post, the latter doing it with an audacious overhead kick. France finally took the lead on the stroke of halftime after a short corner routine released Mbappe who cut inside and released a low drive past the hapless Widell Zetterstorm. The goal was Mbappe's 9th knockout goal in the World Cup, the most by any player ever. After the restart, France crancked up the pressure and in the 53rd minute, France doubled their lead as an exquisite pass by Micheal Olise which nutmeged a defender into Bradley Barcola's path before the PSG winger smashed the ball past Zetterstorm. In the 74th minute, the result was all confirmed after Olise slide rule pass into Mbappe saw the Real Madrid striker curl the ball into the net for his 6th goal of the tournament, same with Lionel Messi and made Michael Olise the outright assist leader in the competition at 5 assists ( 1 less than the most in a single competition set by Pele who had 6 assist in the 1970 edition). The goal means that France has scored at least 3+ goals in their last 5 matches at the world cup dating back to the 2022 final against Argentina. France will now face Paraguay in the Round of 16. An hour long storm was not enough to stop Mexico from winning their first knockout game in the World Cup since 1986 as the beat South American side Ecuador 2-0 to qualify for the Round of 16. Mexico started in a high creating numerous chances and youngster Gilberto Moura threatened twice before Raul Jiminez saw his header go wide. Mexico took the lead in the 22nd minute after Julian Quinones cut in from the left before unleashing a fierce shot into the near post for his 3rd goal of the competition. Mexico doubled their lead in the 32nd minute as Jiminez won the ball high up the pitch, exchanged passes with Quinones before firing a shot that swerved away from Hernan Galindez in goal for the Ecuadorians. The Ecuadorian coach made a couple of halftime substitutions but their way back into the game was made difficult as Mexico adopted a conservative approach but were still able to deploy counter attacks to make Ecuador tense. Cesar Montes' header drew a wonderful save from Galindez before Johan Vasqquez headed wide from the subsequent corner. Pierro Hincaoie became the 2nd player to be sent off for covering their mouths during a confrontation after Miguel Almiron was sent off against Turkey. Despite their best efforts or lack of, Ecuador couldn't find a way to breach the Mexican defence that has yet to concede a goal in this tournament. Mexico will now await the winner of the Round of 32 clash between England and DR Congo i
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: 5 times World Champion Brazil needed a stoppage time winner from Gabriel Martinelli to beat Japan 2-1 at the NRG Stadium in Houston.Both teams started brightly with Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki been the busier of the 2 goalies as he had to tip Matheus Cunha's 14th minute shot over the bar. Japan took the lead in the 29th minute when Kaishu Sano picked up an harmless loose ball in the midfield, breezed past an hapless Casemiro before firing into the bottom corner beyond the reach of Allison in goal. 30 seconds after the restart, halftime substitute, Endrick forced Suzuki into another save who then had to make a diving save to stop Bruno Guimares from equalizing. A combination of Suzuki and defender Takehiro Tomiyasu kept the ball from crossing the line from a Casemiro diving header. Brazil finally equalized in the 56th minute after Casemiro powered home an header from a wonderful cross by Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalheas. Brazil kept pressuring the Japan box and finally grabbed the winner in the 96th minute after Bruno Guimares found Gabriel Martinelli in the box, his shot was tipped by Suzuki but it was not enough to stop the ball from crossing into the net. Brazil will now await the winner of the game between Ivory Coast and Norway in the Round of 16. The first major shock of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has seen Paraguay knock out 4 times champions Germany in the 3rd game of the Round of 32. Right from the opening whistle, the Paraguay team set up to frustrate Germany, despite Germany dominating possession in the first half (79% to 21%) Germany could only manage one shot on target which was a tame Joshua Kimmich shit from an acute angle. Paraguay took the lead in the 42nd minute, after some lovely interplay between Matias Galarza and Miguel Almiron who was back in the team after being sent off against Turkey, the former crossed to an unmarked Julio Enciso who headed into the net. After the restart, Germany fans that were expecting a rip roaring response from the Germans were disappointed as their play lacked intensity and their passing lacked precision while Manuel Neuer had to be alert to keep out Julio Enciso after a terrible back pass by Joshua Kimmich. Germany equalized in the 54th minute after a cross by halftime substitute Leon Goretzka was headed home by Kai Havértz. There was little to no goal mouth action for the remainder of the game and also the subsequent 30 minutes of extra time failed to provide much though Jonathan Tah had the ball in the net from a deep Nathaniel Brown cross but it was ultimately ruled off by VAR for a foul on Orlando Gill by Waldeman Anton. During the penalty shootout, both teams missed 2 out of their first 5 penalties apiece, Jonathan Tah missed the subsequent penalty which allowed Jose Canale to bury his and complete the upset. Paraguay will now await the winner of the bout between France and Sweden in the Round of 16 while Germany will try to figure out why they've gone through another early elimination from the competition after failing to qualify from the group stage in 2018 and 2022. Morocco has defeated the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 with 120 minutes of end-to-end action. This match started heavy with tackles flying in and the referee allowing to game to just flow. Both Ismael Saibari and Cyrensio Summerville did get behind the opposition backline but they still allowed the defenders to recover and make tackles. Bert Verbruggen who was in goal for the Dutch team had to save a bullet header by Neil El Aynaoui before making a flying one handed save from an Achraf Hakimi rocket shot. After the restart, Morocco continued to press for an opener with several chances falling to Ayyoub Bouaddi, Brahim Diaz as well as Hakimi but indecision allowed those chances to be wasted. Netherlands needed all of Micky Van Der Ven's pace with Hakimi through on goal. In the 71st minute, Morocco were made to pay for all the lost chances as Summerville collected a flick on from Wout Weghorst before squaring to Cody Gakpo whose low drive beat Bono in goal. It was an emotional celebration for the Liverpool player after what happened over the weekend. Morocco did all they could to get back into the game and finally did in the 91st minute as a beautiful cross from Chemsdine Talbi who plays for Sunderland in the EPL found it's way to Isaac Diop who headed bast Verbruggen. The first period of extra time was known for Verbruggen pulling off probably the save of the competition after saving from Soufiane Rahimi from close range. As both teams couldn't score, penalties became the decider. Justin Kluivert, Quentin Timber and Cyrensio Summerville all lost their penalties for the Netherland while Hakimi and Soufiane Rahimi also missed for Morocco. The winning penalty was dispatched by Ismael Saibari who played for PSV in the Eredivise last season before sealing a move to Bayern Munich this summer. Next up for Morocco will be a battle against co-host Canada.
Lionel Messi has become the all time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history after breaking his tie with Germany's Miroslav Klose. Before the game against Austria, he was tied with Klose on 16 goal but after his brace against the European side, he now has 18 goals in World Cup history. Kylian Mbappe is stied with Miroslav Klose on 16 goals, two behing Lionel Messi. 18 - Lionel Messi 16 - Kylian Mbappé 16 - Miroslav Klose 15 - Ronaldo 14 - Gerd Müller 13 - Just Fontaine 12 - Pelé
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Spain won their 1st game in their last 5 matches at the FIFA World Cup after beating Saudi Arabia 4-0. It was their first win since beating Cost Rica 7-0 in their opening fixture of the 2022 World Cup. Lamine Yamal made his return to the national team and Luis De La Fuentes also handed starts to Alex Baena, Dani Olmo and Pedro Porro after the goaless draw against Cape Verde. Spain took an early lead after Lamine Yamal slid in Mikel Oyarzabal cross at the near post to give Spain the lead in the 10th minute. Oyarzabal doubled Spain's lead in the 21st minute calmly slotting home after a wonderful headed pass from Aymeric Laporte. The Real Soicedad man got his 2nd and Spain's 3rd after another wonderful pass by Dani Olmo. It was Oyarzabal's 21st goal involvement for Spain in his last 13 games (14 goals, 7 assists). At the start of the 2nd half, Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal were taken off for precautionary reasons to be replaced by Crystal Palace's Yeremy Pino and Ferran Torres. Spain attacks became a bit muted but they still grabbed another goal after Saudi's Hassan Tambakti diverted his goalkeeper save from a Marc Cucurella shot into his net. Spain thought they had grabbed a 5th goal in added time but Ferran Torres goal was ruled out for offisde. The win sets Spain up to win the group while Saudi Arabia's hope of qualifying for the next round depends on them beating Cape Verde. Iran had goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand to thanks for the numerous saves after Iran drew their 2nd game of the tournament holding Belgium to a 0-0 draw. Rudi Garcia started Romelu Lukaku for the first time since June last year and the Belgian striker was given a yellow card in the 3rd minute. Alireza had saves from De Cuyper, De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans. Iran thought they had taken the lead when Mehdi Taremi slotted past Thibaut Courtois but the goal was chalked off for offisde. In the 2nd half, the Belgian absolutely dominated possession but it was the Iranian that kept creating the chances m, courtois had to lm away a Taremi volley. In the 69th minute, De Bruyne control and pass to De Cuyper from 6byearss but Beiranvand was up to the task. Belgium had a player sent off when Nathan Ngoy underhit back pass was intercepted by Taremi and the Belgian defender brought him down to stop a goal scoring opportunity. Iran failed to make the Numerical advantage count as the game ended goaless. Egypt cam from a goal down to beat New Zealand 3-1 for their first World Cup win ever. Captain Mohammed Salah was the architect of this come from behind win, the former Liverpool winger had a goal and an assist as he moved to 2 guys shy of his country's all time goal scoring record that held by his current national team coach Hossam Hassan. New Zealand took the lead when Tim Payne crossed for Finn Surman to head home in the 15th minute. The goal seemed to galvanize the Pharaohs, Omar Marmiush forced Max Crocombe into a wonderful save before Salah blazed his free kick high. After the restart, New Zealand dominated possession before Egypt attempted to step out. Their persistence finally payed off after a cross by Mohammed Hany was headed home by Mustaoha Ziko. Ziko turned provider 10 minutes later when a tidy one-two with Salah allowed the former Liverpool forward to score. The result was confirmed 8 minutes from time when Trezeguet headed home from a Salah's corner Cape Verde gave an impressive display as they were able to hold South America side Uruguay to an entertaining 2-2 draw for their second points of the ongoing tournament. The debutants who already held Spain to a goaless draw in their first game took the lead in the 21st minute as Kevin Pina scored from a free kick from a long way out that went through Uruguay's two-man wall and past a stunned Fernando Muslera. A crazy final 5 minutes in the 1st half turned the game on its head, first, Sporting CP Maxi Araujo restored parity by reacting quickly and heading home a loose ball before turning provider for Augustine Cannobio to score in the 3rd minute of added time. In the 2nd half, Cape Verde equalized in the 66th minute through Hello Varela who intercepted a bad back pass by Uruguayan defender and beating Muslera before slotting home.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Brazil defeated Haiti 3-0 to go top of their group. It was a commanding displayby the Samba boys. Mattheus Cunha replaced Igor Thiago in the starting lineup and it seem to galvanize the team. Brazil thought they had taken the lead after Raphinha fired home a Bruno Guimares pass but it was chalked off for offside. Cunha's persistence gave Brazil the lead as he chased the ball and despite Hannes Delcroix attempt to cross the ball, it struck Cunha's leg and went in. Brazil grabbed a second in the 36th minute as Cunha ran into a well placed pass by Vinicius Jr and fired emphatically past the Haiti goalkeeper. Vini Jr went from provider to finisher after firing home from a Lucas Paquetta shot to give Brazil a 3-0 lead into the half. A sad news as Raphinha had to be replaced after exiting due to an injury. The 2nd half was more about Control from the 5 times winner as they saw out the result and went top of their group Turkey became the second team to be officially eliminated after Haiti from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing 1-0 to Paraguay. They conceded the fastest goal at the competition as Matias Galarza fired home from a Julio Enciso pass. Kenan Yildiz and Arda Guler both had chances to score but failed to convert their chances. Miguel Almiron became the first player to be sent off for covering his mouth while talking to an opponent in the first half. Turkey had most of the possession but couldn't create more opportunities, they had a chance late in regulation but Can Uzun fired straight at the Paraguay goalkeeper. The results means that Vincenzo Montella's side have been eliminated despite being considered as one of the dark horses at this tournament. Morocco beat Scotland 1-0 at the Gillette stadium in Foxborough. Ismael Saibari grabbed his 2nd goal of the competition after a wonderful Brahim Diaz assists, the same combination that got them the goal against Brazil in their opening match. Azzidine Ounahi and Achraf Hakimi both had chances to double Morocco's lead but Scotland Keeper Angus Gunn kept them at bay. The only attempt Scotland could muster in the first half came from a Andy Robertson marauding run and cross but John McGinn couldn't connect properly with the ball. In the 2nd half, Scotland started the strongest and had penalty appeals after John McGinn was bundled over by Neil Al Aynaoui, but the appeals were waved off. Scott McTominay had his shot blocked in the box. Sunderland's Chemsdine Talbi had the opportunity to add a second goal for Morocco but shot wide. This result sees Morocco move to first position and Scotland drop to 3rd, after Brazil beat Haiti. USA defeated Australia 2-0 to qualify for the Round of 32 at the ongoing FIFA World Cup. This is the first time since 1930 that the US Men national team will win 2 straight games at a World Cup tournament. The United States started strong pressing Australia defence relentlessly and forcing them into many errors. USA took the lead in the 11th minute when Cameron Burgees diverted Folarin Balogun's cross into his own net. The USA kept in pressing and added a second on the 43rd minute when Alex Freeman headed home a blocks Serginho Dest's shot. The goal was initially chalked off for offside before it was reviewed and later awarded. Australia made a triple change at the start of the 2nd half but it didn't matter much as the US were still able to relentlessly press them and not allow the Aussies to build any sort of momentum. The win sees the USA go first on 6 points followed by Australia are second after defeating Turkey in their opener
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: France opened their World Cup campaign by beating Senegal 3-1 at the MetLife stadium in New Jersey. Kylian Mbappe scored 2 of the goals which sees him become France all time leading scorer surpassing Olivier Giroud. It was an end-to-end action packed 1st half that didn't produce any goals as a series of bad finishing was Senegal's Kryptonite while lack of any goal scoring opportunity was France's. Mbappe especially had a terrible first half touching the ball 14 times and losing it 7 times. In the second half, it was still a cagey affair until Micheal Olise took charge and started running at the Senegalese players and creating opportunities for his teammates. One of his opportunities was finally converted by Kylian Mbappe for his first goal in the 66th minute. Bradley Bacola came in as a substitute and doubled France's lead after running through on goal from a pass by Adrien Rabiot and chipping Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal pulled one back through Ibrahim Mbaye in the 95th minute before Kylian Mbappe restored France's 2 goals cushion with a wonderful goal from outside the penalty box for his 14 World Cup goal ever. The win gives France a much needed breathing space. Manchester City's Erling Haaland scored 2 goals as Norway beat Iraq 4-1 to take too spot in Group I. The match which was played at Gillette stadium in Foxborough saw Norway take the lead in the 29th minute through Haaland before Aymen Hussein equalized for Iraq 10 minutes later which was Iran's first goal in the competition for 40 years. Haaland restored Norway's lead in the 43rd minute to go into half time. Leo Ostigard gave Norway a 2 goals lead in the 2nd in the 76th minute after burying a pass from Arsenal's midfielder Martin Odegaard. An own goal by Aymen Hussein put the nail in the coffin of the Asian nation and gave Norway their first win since 1994. Lionel Messi rolled back the years as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener at the Arrowhead stadium in Kansas. The hattrick makes Messi the joint all time leading goalscorer in World Cup history matching Germany's Miroslav Klose with 16 goals and passing Kylian Mbappe, Fontaine and Ronaldo Nazario on the list. Algeria thought they had taken an early lead in the 8th minute but Fares Chaibi who plays for Frankfurt in Germany had his goal disallowed for offside. Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a lovely pass by Rodrigo De Paul. Messi added a second goal in the 60th minute via a rebound after the goalkeeper spilled a shot. Messi finished off his hattrick after converting Nico Gonzalez assist in the 76th minute. He became the oldest player to score an hattrick in the World Cup breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's record he set in 2018. Austria defeated World Cup debutants Jordan 3-1 at the Levi Stadium. Austria controlled most of the game but the debutants gave a good account of themselves creating numerous chances against the European team. Austria took the lead in the 21st minute after a wonderful shot by Roman Schmidt. Jordan equalized 5 minutes into the 2nd half through Ali Olwan. Austria thought they had taken the lead in the 67th minute through captain Marko Arnautovic but it was chalked off for handball. Austria finally took the lead in the 76th minute through an own goal by Jordan's Yazan Al Arab from a Marcel Sabitzer corner. Arnautovic added another goal in the 102nd minute from the penalty spot after a Jordan foul. It was an encouraging display by the debutant team from Asia as they were able to create numerous chances against a strong European opponent.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: World cup debutants Cape Verde held the No 2 ranked team in the world, Spain 0-0 at the Atlanta stadium in Georgia. Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha put up a man of the match display making 7 saves while keeping the rampant Spain at bay with an array of wonderful saves. The 40 year old who plays in the Portuguese Second division was in imperial form as the African side were able to hold Spain off. Even the entrance of Lamine Yamal didn't change the fortune of the Spanish side as a determined Cape Verde team were well drilled tactically and avoided getting caught out of shape. Spain had most of the possession, chances created, shots on target and xG but still couldn't find the elusive goal. Egypt held Belgium to a 1-1 draw. It was a nail-biting affair and Egypt took an early lead in the 19th minute when Enam Ashour scored his first international goal after shooting home a Mohammed Salah's pass to give the North Africans the lead. Egypt tried to soak in the pressure and hit Belgium on the counter as half time rolled in. It was more of the same in he 2nd half as the Egyptian sat back and handed most of the possession to the Belgian. Belgium brought in Romelu Lukaku and 23 seconds after coming on ,he forced an Own goal off Mohammed Hany. It was more of the same as Egypt were content to sit back and soak in all the pressure. The game ended 1-1 which was a good result for the North African side.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP RECAP: Co-host Canada played out a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opening match of the ongoing FIFA World Cup. Jovo Lukic's header gave the Bosnians the lead in the 21st minute. Canada had numerous chances to equalize but Jonathan David and Tani Oluwaseyi both fluffed their lines and failed to convert their chances. Canada Coach and former Leeds United manager Jesse March made a couple of changes in the 2nd half which helped Canada crank up the pressure on the Bosnians and it paid off in the when Cyle Larin's deflected strike went past Vasilj in goal. Canada pushed for more goals but solid defending helped Bosnia finish the game with a draw. United States put up a dominant display against Paraguay as the battered their South American counterpart 4-1 in Mauricio Pochettino's first World Cup game as manager. USA captain Christian Pulisic cut back was deflected into his own net by Paraguay midfielder Bobadilla. Folarin Balogun's double gave United States a 3-0 lead heading into half time. Paraguay pulled one back through Mauricio after slotting home a Julio Enciso pass before Gio Reyna added a Fourth goal in the 98th minute to give United States an emphatic win.
UCL: PSG retained the UEFA Champions League after beating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties after drawing 1-1 after normal time and extra time. Arsenal took the lead in the 6th minute after Kai Havertz ran through on goal and slotted past Matvey Safonov. PSG has 2 shouts for penalties in the first half but we're waved off by the referee. PSG continued to dominate possession in the 2nd half and were awarded a penalty in the 65th minute after Christian Mosquera fouled Kvara Kvaratskhelia, the score line remained till 120 minutes when the game went into penalties. Eberechi Eze and Nuno Mendes bithe lost penalties for both teams before standout defender lost the deciding penalty to give PSG the title. Vitinha won the Man of the Match while Luis Enrique won his third Champions League title (Barcelona (1), PSG (2)). This was also the first Champions League final to be decided on penalties since 2016 when Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid 5-3 on penalties.
UCL RECAP: Arsenal are through to the final of the 2026 UEFA Champions League after defeating Atletico Madrid 1-0 in the 2nd lego of their Semi-final fixture. Bukayo Saka got the only goal of the game with two minutes before the break after pouncing on a rebound when Jan Oblak spilled a Leandro Trossard shot. Atletico had a shout for penalty for a foul on Antoine Griezman but was turned down by the refree. Arsenal will be awaiting the winner of the second semi-final fixture between PSG and Bayern Munich for a date in Baku for the final. It's going to be a PSG vs Arsenal final in Budapest after the completion of the 2nd leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final fixtures. PSG played out a 1-1 draw with German side Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. Ballon D'or winner Ousmane Dembele gave PSG an early lead in the 3rd minute after Kvicha Kvaratskhelia was allowed to run at goal and square the bLl for the Frenchman. Bayern created multiple chances but couldn't convert anyone. In the 2nd half, it was more of the same and Bayern's final ball was missing as both Micheal Olise and Luiz Diaz were both guilty of trying too much. Bayern Munich did pull one back in the 94th minute through Harry Kane but it was too late and the game ended 1-1 and 6-5 on aggregate.
UCL: The return fixtures of the UEFA Chmpions League fixtures start today at Arsenal will be hosting Atletico Madrid at The Enirate stadium. The 1st leg finished in a 1-1 draw and with the home advantage, Arsenal will be hoping to make their first Champions League final since 2006 when they lost to Barcelona 2-1. Arteta in his press conference confirmed thatg both Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are both available for selection which is an added boost for the team. After having lost to PSG in last year's semis, Arteta and his boys will be hoping to go one better and qualify for the final. In the 2nd game, Bayern Munich will trade tackles with PSG at the Allianz arena where they will be looking for an outright win to qualify for their first final since winning it in 2020. The first leg was the highest scoring semi=final gam in the competition's history. There are no injury update on both sides so they are both expected to field a very strong team which is billed to be an exciting affair.
UCL RECAP: It was an avalanche of goals, drama and pure attacking football at the Parcs De Prince as Holders PSG defeated German giants Bayern Munich 5-4 which is the highest scoring Semi-Final game in UCL history. Bayern Munich opened the scoring when Bayern were awarded a penalty after a foul on Luiz Diaz which Harry Kane buried for his 13th goal of the Champions League this season. Kvara Kvaratskhelia equalized after dancing past Josip Stanisic before Joao Neves headed hime a Ousmane Dembele corner. Micheal Olise restored parity after dancing last 2 PSG players. PSG were awarded a penalty on the stroke of half time after Alphonse Davids was penalize for handball. Which Dembele buried for a 3-2 PSG lead heading into half time. PSG replaced Davids with Konrad Lanier and switched to a back 3 which opened the game for PSG and they responded with 2 quick fire goals from Dembele and Kvara. A few PSG changes was a catalyst that Bayern needed as goals from Dayot Upemecano and Luiz Diaz saw Bayern try to crawl back into the game but it was too late and they couldn't score one more to draw the match.The return leg is next week and Allianz Arena promises to be very loud as Bayern will be seeking to take advantage of scoring away from home and will want to qualify so that they get to face the winners of the game between Arsenal and Athletico Madrid. The 2nd Semi-final fixture of the UEFA Champions League between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw at the Wanda Metropolitano. Chances were far in between I. The first half as it was a very cagey affair till the 42nd minute when Arsenal were awarded a penalty to Arsenal after Viktor Gyokores was fouled in the box. The big Swedish striker picked himself up to dispatch the penalty and dive Arsenal a 1-0 lead heading into the half time. Atletico started putting pressure on the Arsenal's gol and from a corner kick, Marcos Llorente's shot strick Ben White's outstretched arm which was awarded as a penalty after VAR check. Julian Alvarez converted the spot kick for his 10th goal in the UCL. Arsenal thought they had another penalty after Jancko was believed to have tripped Eberechi Eze but the judgement was overturned after consultation with VAR. The 2nd leg will take place next week after both team would have played their league matches.
UCL: The Semi-Finals of the UEFA Champions League kicks off on Tuesday when current holders PSG host German giants Bayern Munich to the Parcs Des Prince. Bayern had earlier defeated Paris Saint-German in the group stage of the competition where Bayern were 2-1 winners in france thanks to a Luiz Diaz double before he was sent off for a reckless challenge. Vitinha has an injury scare but has been training and may likely feature for them but Sergio Gnarby is out for the Germans after his injury which has also ruled out of the World Cup English side Arsenal will be travelling to Spain to take on Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano. The English side are looking to qualify for their first Champions League final since 2006 when they lost to Barcelona. Atletico will also be looking to make their first final since losing to Real Madrid in 2017. Arsenal will be without Kai Havertz and probably Noni Madueke who both came off during their weekend game against Newcastle. Arsenal were eliminated by OSHA at this same stage during last years Champions League competition.
UCL RECAP: Holders PSG beat Liverpool 2-0 at A field and 4-0 on aggregate to qualify for the Semi-Finals of the UEFA Champions League. Ousmane Dembepe scored 2 goals in the 72nd and 91st minute to give PSG the win. Slot started both Isak and Ekitike up front and were able to get a few chances. Ekitike pulled up with an injury that looks serious and was replaced by Mohammed Salah. Milos Kerkez point blank shot was saved by Safonov. In the second half, Liverpool increased the pressure and generated lots of chances but their execution was their greatest undoing. Dembele gave the Parisans the lead after finding space in front of the Liverpool box and slotting past Marmardashvili. He got his second when he scored from close range after a beautiful assist by Bradley Barcola. Atletico Madrid knocked out their arch-nemesis Barcelona out of the Champions League after losing to Barcelona 2-1 but winning 3-2 on average. Lamine Yamal gave Barcelona an early lead after 5 minutes after pouncing on a Le Nomand error. Ferran Torres doubled Barcelona lead on 24th minute before a nice counter attacking goa which was converted by Nigerian attacker, Ademola Lookman. Barcelona had a goal ruled out for offside before another red card to Eric Garcia. This is the 3rd time that Simeone's Atletico will be knocking Barcelona out of the UEFA Champions League at the knockout stages. It was an avalanche of goals, drama and intrigue at the Allainz Arena as Bayern Munich beat Real Madrid 4-3 to qualify 6-4 on aggregate and progressive to the Semi-Finals. Madrid took an early lead when Arda Guler scored in the 3rd minute but Aleksandar Pavlovic restored parity for the German giants. Guler grabbed his second shortly to hide Madrid a 2-1 lead only for the in-form Harry Kane to equalize for Bayern Again. Kylian Mbappe scored again to give Madrid the lead heading into half time. 2nd half substitute Eduardo Camavinga came in the 67th minute and still got sent off in the 84th minute. Bayern took advantage and Luiz Diaz scored in the 87th minute before Micheal Olise rounded up the win with a goal in the 94th minute. Arsenal and Sporting CP played an absolute drab match that saw few chances in between. They played out a goaless draw which sees Arsenal win 1-0 on aggregate. Noni Madueke was forced off with injury which spells bad news for Arsenal as they prepare to face Manchester City on Sunday with both Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke likely to be out with injuries. The Semi-finals sixture is set and will see Arsenal take on Atletico Madrid while German giants and 6 times winners Bayern Munich will face current holders PSG who they beat in the group stage earlier this season.
2026 FIFA WORLD CUP QUARTER FINALS By: Babatunde Ajibade (World Cup correspondent) Facebook: Babatunde Olatunji Ajibade Twitter: ollyzjinx01 Instagram: sir_ajirowo01 As the tournament draws closer to its end, the excitement just keeps growing. The biggest players continue to show up on the biggest stage with brilliant goals, crunching tackles and unbelievable saves. The quarter-finals were no different. This World Cup may have been longer than previous editions, but one thing is certain—it has delivered. France took on Morocco in the opening quarter-final, and for me, Morocco gave France far too much respect. From the way the coach set up the team, it looked like they were more concerned about stopping France than hurting them. France, on the other hand, came out like a team on a mission. Mbappé missed a penalty in the first half, but that didn't stop him. He responded with a brilliant finish after the break to put France ahead. It was his eighth goal of the tournament, drawing him level at the top of the Golden Boot race. He has now scored 20 goals in World Cup history. At this rate, I honestly believe he will surpass Messi's record before he retires. Dembélé also got on the scoresheet to seal a 2-0 victory and send France into their third semi-final in the last three World Cups. You can already see they have one eye on another final, and I'm sure they'll be hoping for another meeting with Argentina to get revenge for that unforgettable defeat in the 2022 World Cup final. But before dreaming about that, they must first get past Spain. The 2010 World Cup winners, Spain, faced Belgium in the second quarter-final, and what a game it was. It started at a frantic pace, then slowed down for a while before bursting back into life again. Fabian Ruiz, a surprise starter with Pedri beginning on the bench, gave Spain the lead. Belgium responded just 11 minutes later through De Ketelaere. The second half belonged largely to Spain, but the biggest turning point came when Thibaut Courtois picked up an injury and had to be substituted. Lammens came on in goal, while Spain introduced their own game changer, Mikel Merino. Once again, just like he did against Portugal in the Round of 16, Merino delivered when his country needed him most. He reacted quickest after Cubarsí's effort slipped through Lammens' hands to score the winner and send Spain into their first World Cup semi-final since lifting the trophy in 2010. Can Spain go all the way again? One thing is worth remembering. Spain have beaten France in their last two meetings, including that memorable victory at the European Championship. So, I definitely wouldn't rule them out. But who do you think reaches the final? Let me know in the comments. Norway against England had all the ingredients of a classic. Haaland versus Kane. Ødegaard versus Bellingham. Everywhere you looked, those were the headlines, and thankfully, the match lived up to the hype. England controlled possession early on but struggled to break down Norway's disciplined defence. Everything changed after the hydration break. Norway became the better side, and they got their reward when Schjelderup's cross—well, I'm still not sure whether it was a cross or a shot—completely fooled Jordan Pickford and found the back of the net. I was just as confused as Pickford. Norway should have doubled their lead moments later, but Sørloth chose not to square the ball to Haaland. The Manchester City striker was unusually quiet for long spells and looked like he might produce another late moment of magic like he did against Brazil. Instead, it was his friend Jude Bellingham who stole the spotlight. Bellingham drove into the box from midfield, collected Gordon's cross and calmly slotted the ball into the far corner to level the score. Both goalkeepers then produced outstanding saves to force the game into extra time, but football can be cruel. The same man who rescued Norway against Brazil, goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland, became the villain. He spilled a straightforward effort from substitute Morgan Rogers, and Bellingham reacted quickest to fire home his second goal of the match. That took his tally to six goals at this World Cup. No English player has ever scored more non-penalty goals in a single World Cup than Jude Bellingham. Can the Three Lions finally win their second World Cup? The final quarter-final saw Argentina take on Switzerland in a match that was much tighter than many expected. The Swiss started brightly and looked the better side early on, but Argentina reminded everyone why they are the reigning world champions. Alexis Mac Allister, one of the shortest players on the pitch, rose highest to head home from a Lionel Messi corner and give La Albiceleste the lead. That assist was Messi's second of the tournament and his 10th in FIFA World Cup history. To Switzerland's credit, they never stopped believing. They continued to control large spells of the game and got the equaliser they deserved through Dan Ndoye early in the second half. However, the turning point came just minutes later when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after a VAR mistaken-identity review. I honestly couldn't understand that decision from Embolo. Your team had Argentina under pressure, pushing for a winner, and you chose that moment to go down looking for a foul. For a player of his experience, it was a needless mistake that completely changed the game. With neither side able to separate themselves after 90 minutes, the match went into extra time. Switzerland gave everything, but Argentina's quality finally told in the second half of extra time. Julián Álvarez produced a stunning strike before Lautaro Martínez added the killer goal with a calm finish to seal a 3-1 victory. The reigning world champions are through to the semi-finals, where England now stand in their way. The Golden Boot race is becoming even more fascinating. At this rate, don't be surprised if the winner finishes with double figures. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé lead the standings with eight goals each. Erling Haaland follows with seven, while Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are right behind on six. In the assist rankings, Michael Olise still leads the way with five assists. Semi-final Fixtures 🇫🇷 France 🆚 🇪🇸 Spain 🏴 England 🆚 🇦🇷 Argentina Who do you think will qualify for the final? Who has scored the best goal of the tournament so far? And which goalkeeper has produced the save of the tournament? We've seen some absolutely incredible stops throughout this competition. Overall, what has been your impression of the quarter-finals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Which moment stood out the most for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
It is the year 2025, and the frontrunner to win the Ballon d'Or is Ousmane Dembele, forward for Paris Saint-Germain and the France national team. The road to this point has been far from smooth, but this is the end point nonetheless. PSG are the undisputed and unquestionable kings of Europe, winning the European Cup in any format for the first time in their history - a significant feat not just for a team only founded in 1970, but one for the Qatari Sports Investment project which has been hell-bent on continental domination since their takeover in 2011. Luis Enrique's side will be remembered for years to come for their tiki taka-lite style based on fluidity and slick possession football, and at the forefront of their success has been Dembele. With the Ballon d'Or now judged on a seasonal basis - as should have always been the case, thank you, France Football - it is a campaign that should end with Dembele lifting the prestigious Golden Ball in his home country.
Historic Exchange Under Istanbul Agreement In the largest prisoner swap since the full-scale war began, Russia and Ukraine have each released 390 prisoners—comprising 270 military personnel and 120 civilians—as part of an overall 1,000-for-1,000 agreement negotiated during direct talks in Istanbul earlier in May. BBC+4www.ndtv.com+4Deutsche Welle+4Anadolu Ajansı+15Reuters+ Departures and Arrivals Ukrainian returnees arrived in the Chernihiv region, many visibly frail with shaved heads and draped in national flags, greeted by emotional reunions with relatives amid cheers and tears. Reuters+4 The Washington +4 The Daily Star +4. Some had been held in captivity for nearly two years. Russian returnees, including soldiers and civilians captured during a Ukrainian incursion into Kursk region, were first transported to Belarus for medical and psychological evaluation before being repatriated ussia. BBC+3Reuters+3 The Guardian +3. Emotional Homecomings and Lingering Uncertainty Families crowded the exchange sites, clutching photographs of missing loved ones, hoping for a clue from those stepping off the buses. One Ukrainian newly freed veteran, held for more than 830 days, encouraged others not to lose hope: “In every prison there are many guys who had no contact with their relatives. I was the same,” he said The Guardian+10The Washington Post+10The Guardian+10. But for many, the reunion came with heavy uncertainty about family members still unaccounted for. Political Messages and Future Prospects President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the swap as the only tangible outcome of the Istanbul talks and emphasized continued efforts to bring all detainees home. Hromadske The Washington PostThe Guardian. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov promised that Moscow would submit a draft peace proposal following the exchange but reiterated refusal of a ceasefire unless certain conditions were met—terms Ukraine has rejected, according to Reuters The Guardian. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who helped push for the Istanbul negotiations, congratulated both parties via his social media platform, calling the swap a possible step toward broader peace, though no ceasefire has been agreed upon, according to Reuters and the New York Post. Humanitarian Milestone Amid Ongoing Conflict This first phase swap underscores a rare moment of cooperation in a conflict that has otherwise deepened across Ukraine’s eastern and southern regions. While a few hundred lives have been restored to families, thousands remain in captivity, and both sides show no signs of halting hostilities. Negotiations may continue in coming days as both governments prepare for the next instalment of releases under the "1,000-for-1,000" agreement. For now, the tranche of 390 each represents the largest exchange of its kind since the war began.
Crystal Palace Vs Manchester United Preview By: Babatunde Ajibade (Manchester United correspondent) Facebook: Babatunde Olatunji Ajibade Twitter: ollyzjinx01 Instagram: sir_ajirowo01 Manchester United head to Selhurst Park under heavy pressure and even heavier scrutiny after a disastrous showing at Old Trafford against Everton. The boos that echoed around the stadium said it all. Losing 1–0 to a 10-man Everton side — and conceding after they went a man down — was embarrassing on every level. From the touchline to the pitch, it was shambolic. Many fans are asking the same question: How much more can the board tolerate before admitting the Amorim experiment has failed? United have not scored against Crystal Palace in their last four meetings — and after the lifeless performance against Everton, confidence isn’t exactly flowing. Starting a match with five defenders against a team reduced to ten men was baffling. Shifting Amad into unfamiliar positions didn’t help either. The tactical confusion is becoming a weekly theme, and now they travel to a stadium where their recent record is terrible. The international break may have come at the worst possible time. United had built momentum with 11 points from five Premier League games, but that form now looks like it was papering over deeper cracks — cracks that were fully exposed on Monday night. The Red Devils are barely hanging on to a top-half spot. They’ve failed to keep a clean sheet in five straight matches and continue to struggle away from home. Their London record is even worse: 16 losses in their last 26 Premier League games in the capital — the worst of any top-flight side during that period. A painful stat surfaced recently: Amorim: 9 wins in 35 Premier League games, Ten Hag (same period last year): 23 wins. The numbers speak for themselves. Poor in-game management. Poor structure. Poor identity. United ended the Everton defeat with 25 attempts — but scored none — while conceding from the only shot they faced. Their xG tells the same story: xG For: 20.1 → actual goals: 19 (two were own goals) Conversion rate: 10.4% — 7th worst in the league They create chances, but they can’t finish them. Crystal Palace, on the other hand, are flying. Only Arsenal have conceded fewer Premier League goals this season. Oliver Glasner’s side sit fifth and have kept three straight clean sheets against Wolves, Brentford, and Brighton. Their defensive confidence is sky-high, and recent history backs it up: Three wins in their last four league games vs Man United (D1) Two wins in their last four at Selhurst Park vs Man United Opta supercomputer predictions says Palace to win is 54.1% United aren’t just underdogs, they’re clear underdogs. So here we are again, asking what has become a weekly question for Manchester United supporters: Will this team finally show 90 minutes of concentration and courage or will they crumble, invite pressure, and rely on another desperate comeback attempt? Comment below with your score predictions! Manchester United record against Crystal Palace: Games won: 41 Games drawn: 14 Games lost: 13 Team News: (As of today 29/11/2025,) Crystal Palace: Caleb Kporha, Borna Sosa, Cheick Doucoure , Chadi Riad and Rio Cardines are out for this game. Manchester United: Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha and Harry Maguire are out for this game. Prediction: United sometimes deliver when everyone has written them off, and they should have more energy than Palace. But this team has a habit of sleeping through the first half, and Selhurst Park is a brutal place for a team low on confidence. Crystal Palace 1-1 Manchester United.
Arsenal and Manchester City played out a dramatic 1-1 draw on Sunday, with the two Premier League rivals unable to be separated through 98 or so minutes. Erling Haaland had given the visitors an early lead, before Pep Guardiola remarkably decided to park the bus to try and sneak the win. Those efforts went up in smoke in added time as Gabriel Martinelli scored to clinch a point for the Gunners. Having both slipped up domestically already this season, this wasn't quite a 'must win' affair for either side, but definitely more of a 'must not lose'. In the end, perhaps a draw in which neither team showed much attacking endeavour will please both parties. City seemed content to sit in and create chances on the break, while Arsenal didn't exactly throw the kitchen sink at their visitors in order to force the leveller. It was a pretty just outcome and neither can really have any complaints about how it ended.
