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With Italy failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, criticism over Africa's increased automatic slots has been countered by a strong showing: nine of ten African teams reached the knockout stage, a 90% success rate. Morocco made history as the first African side to reach the quarter-finals twice, while Cape Verde's spirited display won hearts.
Recent World Cup matches have been played under record-breaking heat, with nine group-stage games meeting thresholds that players' union Fifpro says should trigger delays or postponements. Both ABC Australia and The Guardian report that climate change is making such conditions more common, prompting calls for heat to factor into future scheduling decisions.
As Argentina prepares for their World Cup knockout match against Cape Verde in Miami, all eyes are on Lionel Messi, who at 39 is playing in his sixth World Cup and has scored in every match so far. Reports highlight his record-breaking scoring streak and his transformative impact on soccer in the United States, while fans and analysts alike wonder if age will finally catch up with him.
Kylian Mbappé eased concerns about his fitness after scoring France's opener in a 2-0 win over Morocco, a result that sends Les Bleus into the World Cup semi-finals. The French captain said he is 'completely fine' and ready for the next match, while Morocco's coach called for self-criticism despite the team's historic achievement.
As Lionel Scaloni approaches his 100th match as Argentina's head coach, the team rides high on recent Copa América and World Cup successes. Yet, their 2026 World Cup knockout campaign has been marked by narrow escapes, tactical missteps, and a missed penalty by Lionel Messi, while the Argentine Football Association negotiates a new contract.
Spain return to the top of the FIFA rankings after dethroning Argentina, who remain among four favourites still alive at the World Cup. Al Jazeera assesses the title credentials of the remaining eight teams, from Argentina's unconvincing path to England's character and France's attacking depth.
Egypt has filed a formal complaint with FIFA over its World Cup round-of-16 loss to Argentina, citing 'double standards' and demanding the removal of the referee. The defeat has sparked viral claims of Argentine favouritism, while FIFA also faces scrutiny over other decisions.
Egyptian and Cape Verdean fans have accused Argentina supporters of violent behavior and racism during knockout matches at the World Cup, with beer-throwing incidents and flag displays reported. FIFA has condemned racist abuse against influencer IShowSpeed and launched an investigation.
France will face Morocco in the World Cup quarterfinals at Foxborough Stadium in Boston on Thursday, a rematch of the 2022 semifinal. Morocco will be without star forward Ismael Saibari due to a hamstring injury, while coach Mohamed Ouahbi downplays revenge as motivation. The match pits France's attacking depth against Morocco's compact defense and youthful squad.
Argentina rallied from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and advance to the World Cup quarter-finals. Lionel Messi missed a penalty but scored the equaliser, with Enzo Fernandez netting a stoppage-time winner.
Defending champions Argentina staged a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the World Cup last 16, with Lionel Messi scoring the equaliser and Enzo Fernandez netting the stoppage-time winner. Egypt had a goal disallowed and saw a coaching staff member sent off in a dramatic finish in Atlanta.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has identified Mohamed Salah as a key threat ahead of Tuesday's World Cup quarter-final against Egypt, describing the forward as a 'top player' who deserves special attention. The match pits two of the tournament's veteran stars, Lionel Messi and Salah, against each other, with both teams vying for a place in the semi-finals.
As the World Cup captivates global audiences, off-pitch issues including high ticket prices, visa denials, political interference and governance concerns have cast a shadow over the tournament. FIFA's decisions, from awarding the Peace Prize to Donald Trump to the 2034 hosting rights for Saudi Arabia, have drawn criticism and raised questions about the organization's transparency and accountability.
Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in the round of 16 with a stoppage-time goal from Mikel Merino, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career. The 41-year-old confirmed his farewell, while Portugal has appointed Jorge Jesus as new coach.
Mikel Merino's stoppage-time goal gave Spain a 1-0 win over Portugal, advancing them to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2010 and likely ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career. Spain's record-breaking defensive run continues, with goalkeeper Unai Simon extending his clean sheet streak.
Argentina and Egypt meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, with Lionel Messi and Mohamed Salah headlining. Argentina edged Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time, while Egypt beat Australia on penalties. France face Paraguay in another last-16 tie.
FIFA has suspended the one-match ban on US striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play against Belgium in the World Cup round of 16, after President Trump reportedly lobbied for a review. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from UEFA and the Belgian football federation, who argue it undermines the integrity of the game.
Portugal and Spain meet in the World Cup round of 16 in Dallas, with Cristiano Ronaldo's potential last dance against teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. Spain arrive unbeaten in 34 matches, while Portugal scraped through after a turbulent group stage.
Cape Verde's national football team returned to Praia on Sunday, greeted by tens of thousands of fans after a historic first World Cup run that included draws against Spain and Uruguay and a narrow loss to Argentina. Players and fans celebrated the achievement, which coincided with the nation's independence day.
FIFA has suspended Folarin Balogun's one-match ban after US President Donald Trump asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the red card, clearing the striker to play against Belgium in the World Cup Round of 16. The decision has drawn praise from Trump and the US team, but outrage from Belgium and criticism from European football bodies.