With the final now waiting against Spain, the legendary forward has added another remarkable achievement to a tournament already filled with records and historic performances.

Lionel Messi continues to rewrite the history books on soccer’s biggest stage, producing another unforgettable World Cup moment during Argentina’s dramatic semifinal victory over England. With the final now waiting against Spain, the legendary forward has added another remarkable achievement to a tournament already filled with records and historic performances.

Messi and Argentina survived one of the most intense matches of the 2026 World Cup, coming from behind to defeat England 2-1 in Atlanta. The result secured La Albiceleste’s place in a second consecutive World Cup final, but the night also belonged to Messi’s latest piece of individual brilliance.

This majestic clash carried enormous history before the ball was even kicked. The two national teams entered the match with decades of rivalry, unforgettable encounters, and the pressure of a place in the World Cup final on the line.

The match itself quickly became a physical battle, with neither team able to establish control during a chaotic opening period. The first half produced numerous fouls, interruptions, and limited attacking opportunities, with both teams struggling to create clear chances.

England eventually found the breakthrough in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon finished a well-worked move to give the Three Lions a 1-0 lead. Argentina responded by increasing the pressure, with Messi once again becoming the central figure in the comeback attempt.

Argentina’s late comeback sends England home

The defending champions refused to surrender, pushing forward repeatedly as the Three Lions attempted to protect their advantage. The pressure finally paid off when Enzo Fernandez scored in the 85th minute, firing Argentina level and sending the supporters inside the stadium into celebration.

Only minutes later, Messi delivered another decisive moment. The Argentina captain created space on the right side before producing a perfectly weighted cross for Lautaro Martinez, who headed home in stoppage time to complete the comeback.

The victory means the reigning champion will face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final as it chases another championship. Messi once again showed his ability to influence matches at the highest level, even as he approaches the final stages of his legendary career.

Messi breaks World Cup record that has stood untouched since 1966

Beyond the dramatic victory, Messi also achieved a record that had stood beyond the reach of generations of soccer legends. The Argentina captain became the player with the most assists in FIFA World Cup history, reaching 12 assists across his tournament career.

According to Opta Joe, “Messi’s two assists against England took him to 12 World Cup assists, with 10 of those coming during knockout-stage matches. No other player since recorded data began in 1966 has registered more than eight assists at the finals.”

The milestone places the 39-year-old above some of the greatest names in soccer history. Brazil legend Pele previously held one of the highest totals with 10 assists, while players such as Diego Maradona, Raymond Kopa, and Fritz Walter also sit among the tournament’s elite creators.

Messi’s record is even more impressive considering the stage at which he has produced many of his assists. Ten of his 12 World Cup assists have come in knockout matches, highlighting his influence when the pressure is at its highest.

Rank	Player	National Team	Assists	World Cup Games
1.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	12	33
2.	Pele	Brazil	10	14
3.	Fritz Walter	West Germany	9	11
4.=	Raymond Kopa	France	8	8
4.=	Diego Maradona	Argentina	8	21
4.=	Uwe Seeler	West Germany	8	21

Messi overtakes Mbappe in Golden Boot race

Messi’s 2026 tournament has continued the extraordinary form he displayed during Argentina’s championship run in Qatar. The 39-year-old has remained directly involved in Argentina’s attacking output throughout the competition, contributing goals and assists in every stage of the tournament.

Before the semifinal against England, Messi had already recorded an involvement in every Argentina match at the 2026 World Cup. His consistency has placed him among the leading scorers and creators of the competition, while also keeping him in contention for individual awards.

Rank	Player	National Team	Goals	Assists
1.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	8	4
2.	Kylian Mbappe	France	8	3
3.	Erling Haaland	Norway	7	0
4.	Harry Kane	England	6	1
5.	Jude Bellingham	England	6	1

The Argentina captain also moved ahead of Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race after his two assists against England. Both players entered the semifinal stage with eight goals, but Messi’s additional assists gave him the advantage in the tiebreaker standings.

Cristiano Ronaldo may have seen Portugal’s 2026 World Cup journey end earlier than he hoped, but the legendary forward still managed to leave behind a remarkable mark against one of the tournament’s strongest sides.

Cristiano Ronaldo may have seen Portugal’s 2026 World Cup journey end earlier than he hoped, but the legendary forward still managed to leave behind a remarkable mark against one of the tournament’s strongest sides. While Portugal’s journey ended earlier than hoped and Kylian Mbappe’s France fell short against Spain, one remarkable statistic has emerged that shows Ronaldo still managed to leave a historic mark against one of the tournament’s strongest defenses.

Spain’s incredible defensive record has become one of the biggest stories of the competition, but a deeper look into the numbers reveals a unique achievement involving the 41-year-old veteran. As La Roja continues its pursuit of another World Cup glory, one question remains: how did the legendary Portuguese forward accomplish something that even Mbappe, one of the world’s most dangerous attackers, could not?

Spain’s defensive wall becomes one of 2026 World Cup’s stories

Spain entered the 2026 World Cup knockout stages with a reputation for defensive perfection, and that reputation only grew as the tournament progressed. Luis de la Fuente’s side conceded just one goal in seven matches, recorded six clean sheets, and built one of the most impressive defensive campaigns ever seen at a World Cup.

The European champion relied on a combination of possession control, aggressive pressing, and disciplined defensive positioning to limit opponents. With Unai Simon commanding the goal, Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi protecting the center, and Rodri controlling the midfield, Spain rarely allowed opponents to create clear opportunities.

Their defensive approach was based on suffocating opponents immediately after losing possession. The team’s high defensive line, supported by Simón’s ability to act as a sweeper goalkeeper, prevented attackers from finding space behind the backline.

Spain’s numbers reflected their dominance. The team faced the fewest shots in the tournament, allowed the lowest expected goals against figure, and kept opponents away from dangerous areas of the pitch. Their ability to control games through possession also reduced the number of attacking situations their opponents could create.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal exit cannot erase incredible Spain statistic

Despite Spain’s incredible defensive record, one player managed to find a way through their structure. According to OptaAnalyst data, Cristiano Ronaldo was responsible for both of the only first-half shots on target Spain faced throughout the entire 2026 World Cup.

The statistic became another reminder of Ronaldo’s longevity and ability to remain dangerous on soccer’s biggest stage. During Portugal’s Round of 16 meeting with Spain, Ronaldo was the only Portuguese player to seriously test Unai Simón before halftime.

Although La Roja eventually won the match 1-0, Ronaldo’s effort highlighted his continued importance for the Selecao. The veteran forward repeatedly searched for opportunities against a defense that had neutralized some of the world’s best attackers.

At an age when most players have already retired from international soccer, Ronaldo continued to challenge elite opponents and produce moments that caught global attention. His presence forced Spain’s defenders to remain alert throughout the match.

Spain’s historic defense stopped soccer’s biggest stars

Spain’s defensive success was especially impressive because of the quality of attackers they faced. The team managed to contain several world-class forwards, including France superstar Kylian Mbappe, in the semifinal.

France entered that match with one of the tournament’s most feared attacking units, but Spain’s defensive organization completely disrupted their rhythm. Mbappe, who was competing for the Golden Boot, failed to register a shot on target as Spain secured a 2-0 victory.

After the match, Mbappe admitted that France struggled to find solutions against Spain’s structure. “There were too many technical errors. We didn’t know how to hurt them when we needed to. It was up to us to shift the balance of power, and that’s where we failed,” Mbappe said.

Rodrigo De Paul has been left out of the starting lineup for the semifinal against England, raising questions about one of Lionel Messi’s most trusted teammates.

Argentina is one win away from another World Cup final, but one of Lionel Scaloni’s biggest selection calls has already become a major talking point. Rodrigo De Paul has been left out of the starting lineup for the semifinal against England, raising questions about one of Lionel Messi’s most trusted teammates.

Argentina enters the semifinal against England aiming to keep its World Cup title defense alive after overcoming Switzerland in the quarterfinals. While the attacking partnership of Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez remains intact, Lionel Scaloni has opted to make significant adjustments in midfield.

Rodrigo De Paul has lost his place in the starting XI, with Giuliano Simeone and Nicolas Gonzalez emerging as alternatives as the coaching staff searches for greater balance against England‘s dangerous attack.

The confirmed midfield features Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, and Giuliano Simeone, emphasizing mobility, defensive discipline, and energy ahead of one of Argentina’s biggest matches of the tournament.

Date	Competition	H2H Result
November 12, 2005	International Friendly	Argentina 2-3 England
June 7, 2002	FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)	Argentina 0-1 England
February 23, 2000	International Friendly	England 0-0 Argentina
June 30, 1998	FIFA World Cup (Round of 16)	Argentina 2-2 England (Argentina won 4-3 on penalties)
May 24, 1991	England Challenge Cup	England 2-2 Argentina

Why De Paul has been left on the bench

The main reason behind De Paul’s absence is Scaloni’s tactical approach to facing England. Rather than relying on the usual midfield structure, the Argentina coach wants a system capable of limiting England’s pace on the wings while providing additional defensive protection.

Reports also suggest that De Paul’s performance against Switzerland was viewed as one of his least convincing displays of the tournament, increasing competition for places in midfield as Argentina reaches the decisive stages of the World Cup.

Scaloni has reportedly considered several tactical options, including a more compact midfield or even a switch to a five-man defensive line, with each scenario reducing the need for De Paul’s traditional role alongside Messi.

Return to familiar World Cup formula

One of the most intriguing tactical experiments came during Argentina’s training sessions ahead of the semifinal. Scaloni tested a back five featuring Nicolas Otamendi alongside Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, a move designed to strengthen the defense against England’s attacking threats. Such a formation naturally reduces the number of midfield positions available, making Rodrigo De Paul the player most likely to sacrifice his starting place.

The idea is far from unfamiliar for the Argentina manager. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Scaloni also switched to a five-man defense against the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, a tactical adjustment that helped Argentina survive a dramatic encounter before advancing on penalties and ultimately winning the World Cup.

With a place in the final at stake, supporters are eager to learn why one of England's most recognizable attacking players is not in line to start such an important fixture.

England is set for a huge 2026 World Cup semifinal against Argentina, but Marcus Rashford will begin the match on the bench, prompting plenty of questions ahead of kick-off. With a place in the final at stake, supporters are eager to learn why one of England’s most recognizable attacking players is not in line to start such an important fixture.

The Three Lions arrive in Atlanta after overcoming a demanding path through the knockout rounds. Thomas Tuchel’s side defeated DR Congo before edging Mexico 3-2 and then battling past Norway 3-2 after extra time, with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane continuing to lead England’s charge toward its first World Cup final since 1966.

Argentina‘s journey has been equally dramatic. Lionel Scaloni’s squad recovered from a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2, survived extra-time battles against both Cape Verde and Switzerland, and extended its impressive unbeaten World Cup run while chasing a fourth global title.

Wednesday’s meeting also revives one of soccer’s greatest rivalries. The two sides have not met since a 3-2 friendly victory for England in 2005, while this will be their first World Cup encounter since David Beckham’s winning penalty separated the teams in the 2002 Group Stage.

Date	Competition	H2H Result
November 12, 2005	International Friendly	Argentina 2-3 England
June 7, 2002	FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)	Argentina 0-1 England
February 23, 2000	International Friendly	England 0-0 Argentina
June 30, 1998	FIFA World Cup (Round of 16)	Argentina 2-2 England (Argentina won 4-3 on penalties)
May 24, 1991	England Challenge Cup	England 2-2 Argentina

Why Marcus Rashford is not starting

Rashford’s absence from England’s starting lineup is understood to be a tactical decision rather than the result of injury or suspension. According to the London Evening Standard and BBC Sport, Tuchel believes other attacking options currently offer a better balance for the way England plans to approach Argentina.

The biggest factor is the outstanding form of Anthony Gordon, who has impressed throughout the knockout rounds. Gordon’s work rate, defensive contribution, and ability to stretch opposing defenses have convinced Tuchel to continue trusting him on the left side of England’s attack.

Bukayo Saka’s expected return on the opposite wing further reduces opportunities in the starting eleven. With Saka and Gordon occupying the wide positions behind Harry Kane, Rashford finds himself competing with several in-form attackers for limited places.

Tuchel sees Rashford as valuable impact substitute

While Rashford will not start, England still views him as an important weapon later in matches. His pace and ability to attack tiring defenders have made him a useful option from the bench throughout the tournament.

It is said that Tuchel believes Rashford can have a greater influence entering the game during the second half rather than beginning from the opening whistle. That approach also allows England to introduce fresh attacking speed if the semifinal becomes stretched during the closing stages.

The strategy is one that the coaching staff has already used successfully earlier in the tournament. Rashford previously made a positive contribution after coming off the bench, reinforcing the belief that he can still play a decisive role even without starting.

Compared with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, whose careers have become synonymous with winning, Mbappe now faces growing questions about whether this difficult spell is merely a temporary setback or the beginning of a larger challenge.

Kylian Mbappe‘s latest season has ended without a major trophy for either club or country, placing the Real Madrid and France superstar in unfamiliar territory. Compared with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, whose careers have become synonymous with winning, Mbappe now faces growing questions about whether this difficult spell is merely a temporary setback or the beginning of a larger challenge.

The France national team also finishes the campaign without silverware after the dissappointing 2026 World Cup exit, adding to the disappointment after Real Madrid fell short in every major competition. Individual brilliance has never been in doubt, but soccer’s biggest prizes have once again slipped away from one of the game’s brightest stars.

Mbappe arrived at Real Madrid in summer 2024 carrying enormous expectations after years of success with Paris Saint-Germain. Although he has continued to score at an elite level, his first two seasons in Spain have both ended without a major collective trophy, despite winning consecutive Pichichi awards and scoring 86 goals in his first 103 appearances for Los Blancos.

The French forward also misses out on this year’s Ballon d’Or race after Madrid failed to capture La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, the Copa del Rey, or the Spanish Super Cup, while France also ends the international campaign empty-handed.

However, Mbappe has now completed exactly two senior trophyless seasons, both coming consecutively during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 campaigns. Before joining Madrid, he had collected 18 major trophies, including the 2018 World Cup and multiple Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain.

How many trophyless seasons has Lionel Messi endured?

Mbappe’s current drought inevitably invites comparisons with the two players who have defined modern soccer for nearly two decades.

Even though Lionel Messi built one of the most decorated careers in soccer history, he also endured periods when Barcelona failed to lift silverware. The Argentine completed three trophyless seasons during his senior career: 2006-07, 2007-08, and 2019-20. His longest barren spell lasted two consecutive campaigns before everything changed under Pep Guardiola.

Season	Club	Trophies Won
2007-08	Barcelona	0
2019-20	Barcelona	0

Following those difficult years, Messi spearheaded Barcelona’s historic 2008-09 sextuple, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Champions League, the Spanish Super Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. Years later, after the disappointment of 2019-20, he inspired Argentina to win the 2021 Copa America before finally lifting the 2022 World Cup.

Category	Record
Senior Career Seasons	20+
Trophyless Seasons	2
Trophyless Rate	Only 2 seasons without silverware
Longest Trophy Drought	2019-20 season
First Trophyless Season	2007-08 (Barcelona)

How many trophyless seasons has Cristiano Ronaldo endured?

Cristiano Ronaldo also discovered that sustained success is never guaranteed, regardless of individual excellence. The Portuguese legend experienced multiple trophyless campaigns, beginning with his early Manchester United years before later enduring difficult seasons during his return to Old Trafford and the start of his Saudi Arabian adventure.

His setbacks, however, were followed by equally remarkable rebounds. After his first barren season, Ronaldo became the centerpiece of Manchester United’s dominant era, helping the club win three consecutive Premier League titles, the 2007-08 UEFA Champions League, and his first Ballon d’Or.

Season	Club	Trophies Won
2004-05	Manchester United	0
2009-10	Real Madrid	0
2021-22	Manchester United	0
2022-23	Al-Nassr	0

Later, after Real Madrid’s disappointing 2014-15 season, Ronaldo responded by leading the Spanish giant to three consecutive Champions League titles, cementing his legacy as one of the competition’s greatest performers.

Category	Record
Senior Career Seasons	20+
Trophyless Seasons	4
Clubs During Trophyless Seasons	Manchester United (2), Real Madrid (1), Al-Nassr (1)
Longest Trophy Drought	2009-10 to 2010-11 period before winning Copa del Rey
First Trophyless Season	2004-05 (Manchester United)

Mbappe continues producing elite individual performances

Despite Madrid’s collective struggles, Mbappe has remained among soccer’s most productive attackers. He finished the latest campaign with 42 goals across all competitions, while continuing to rank among Europe’s leading scorers.

His consistency mirrors situations Messi and Ronaldo also experienced during their careers. Messi famously scored 51 goals during the 2018-19 season, while Ronaldo struck 55 goals in 2012-13 and 61 goals in 2014-15, yet both campaigns ended with disappointment because their clubs failed to secure the biggest prizes available.

While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament.

Argentina and England are set to renew one of soccer’s greatest rivalries in the 2026 World Cup semifinal, with the final result set to determine far more than just bragging rights. While the fixture carries decades of history, its immediate importance lies in how the result will decide the final two matches of the tournament.

La Albiceleste’s road to the semifinal has been anything but straightforward. After cruising through the group stage, Lionel Scaloni’s side survived an extra-time battle against Cape Verde, produced a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down to defeat Egypt 3-2, and eventually overcame Switzerland 3-1 after extra time thanks to Julian Alvarez’s decisive strike.

England has also been forced to overcome difficult moments throughout the knockout stage. Thomas Tuchel’s squad eliminated DR Congo before edging Mexico 3-2 and then defeating Norway 3-2 after extra time, with Jude Bellingham once again proving decisive.

The semifinal also renews one of soccer’s most famous rivalries. The nations have not met since a 3-2 England victory in a 2005 friendly, while this will be their first World Cup encounter since the 2002 group stage, when David Beckham’s penalty separated the teams.

Date	Argentina’s Opponent	Stage	Result
July 11, 2026	Switzerland	Quarter-finals	Win (3-1 AET)
July 7, 2026	Egypt	Round of 16	Win (3-2)
July 3, 2026	Cabo Verde	Round of 32	Win (3-2 AET)
June 27, 2026	Jordan	Group Stage	Win (3-1)
June 22, 2026	Austria	Group Stage	Win (2-0)
June 16, 2026	Algeria	Group Stage	Win (3-0)

Both sides enter the contest with superstar forwards leading their attacks. Lionel Messi has scored eight goals during the tournament, while Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have each found the net six times, keeping the Golden Boot race alive heading into the final four.

Date	England’s Opponent	Stage	Result
July 11, 2026	Norway	Quarter-finals	Win (2-1 AET)
July 5, 2026	Mexico	Round of 16	Win (3-2)
July 1, 2026	DR Congo	Round of 32	Win (2-1)
June 27, 2026	Panama	Group Stage	Win (2-0)
June 23, 2026	Ghana	Group Stage	Tie (0-0)
June 17, 2026	Croatia	Group Stage	Win (4-2)

What happens if Argentina wins and England loses?

Should Argentina defeat England, regardless of whether the victory comes in regulation time, extra time, or penalties, the reigning world champion would advance to the 2026 World Cup Final.

Their reward would be a showdown against Spain, which booked its place by defeating France in the first semifinal. Victory over England would also keep alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first nation in more than six decades to successfully defend the World Cup title.

England, meanwhile, would see its championship hopes end and instead prepare for the third-place playoff against France.

The Albiceleste enters the semifinal having survived several demanding knockout matches, including extra-time victories over Cape Verde and Switzerland, while also recovering from a two-goal deficit against Egypt.

What happens if the match is tied after 90 minutes?

Unlike league competitions, a draw cannot be the final result in a World Cup semifinal. If the score remains level after 90 minutes, two 15-minute periods of extra time will immediately follow. Should neither team break the deadlock after 120 minutes, the semifinal would be settled by a penalty shootout.

This scenario would significantly increase the physical demands on both squads, especially considering each side has already endured exhausting knockout encounters during the tournament. The eventual winner of the shootout would advance to face Spain, while the defeated side would move into the third-place match against France.

Date	Competition	H2H Result
November 12, 2005	International Friendly	Argentina 2-3 England
June 7, 2002	FIFA World Cup (Group Stage)	Argentina 0-1 England
February 23, 2000	International Friendly	England 0-0 Argentina
June 30, 1998	FIFA World Cup (Round of 16)	Argentina 2-2 England (Argentina won 4-3 on penalties)
May 24, 1991	England Challenge Cup	England 2-2 Argentina

What happens if Argentina loses and England loses?

An England victory would send the Three Lions into their first World Cup final since 1966, where they would challenge Spain for the trophy.

For Argentina, defeat would immediately end hopes of retaining the title. Instead of competing for a fourth World Cup crown, Lionel Scaloni’s squad would face France in the third-place playoff scheduled before the championship match.

Such a result would also halt the team’s remarkable run of knockout success since lifting the trophy in Qatar four years earlier. While finishing third would still represent a strong tournament, it would fall short of the expectations surrounding the reigning champion.

Pulisic's future appears to depend on one key factor, making the coming weeks crucial for both player and club.

Christian Pulisic faces one of the most important moments of his AC Milan career after a difficult year on and off the pitch, while Ruben Amorim prepares to reshape the Rossoneri with a new vision. The United States international has battled injuries, struggled for consistency, and is now weighing a long-term commitment as Milan begins a new era under its recently appointed head coach. His future, however, appears to depend on one key factor, making the coming weeks crucial for both player and club.

The American star entered 2026 with high expectations but endured a frustrating campaign for both club and country. After failing to score during the World Cup and suffering another injury before the tournament concluded, Pulisic now faces an extended recovery period while also deciding whether Milan remains the right place for the next chapter of his career.

Pulisic’s World Cup ended in disappointment after he suffered a bone bruise and a microfracture involving his lower leg during the United States’ Round of 16 defeat to Belgium. Medical examinations reportedly confirmed the injury, with expectations that he will spend between four and six weeks on the sidelines before returning to training.

The setback capped an exhausting tournament in which the Rossoneri winger was already managing fitness concerns. Earlier in the competition, calf problems limited his playing time, forcing the United States to carefully manage his workload before he eventually returned for the knockout rounds.

It’s been reported that the injury occurred after a collision during an attacking move against Belgium. Although the 27-year-old initially attempted to continue, he was eventually substituted as the Americans crashed out of the tournament.

Milan still planning for Pulisic’s return

Despite the disappointing World Cup, Milan remains committed to the American international. Club medical staff are reportedly working alongside U.S. Soccer to oversee his rehabilitation, with the target of having him available for preseason training in August.

If everything proceeds according to schedule, Pulisic could still be fit for Milan’s Serie A opener later in the summer. That timeline has eased fears of a long-term absence, allowing the Rossoneri to focus on integrating him into Amorim’s tactical plans.

Even so, the injury arrived after an already disappointing campaign. Pulisic finished the 2025-26 Serie A season with eight goals and four assists, but his form dipped dramatically over the final months, failing to score across his final 19 league appearances.

The key factor behind Pulisic’s contract decision

Before committing his future to Milan, Pulisic reportedly wants to fully evaluate Ruben Amorim’s sporting project at the club, as per The Athletic. The American’s current contract runs until 2027, while the Italian side also holds an option to extend the agreement by another season. Club executives, however, reportedly hope to secure him on a much longer deal running through either 2030 or 2031.

With his 28th birthday approaching in September, Pulisic understands that his next contract could be the last major agreement of his career. Reports suggest he prefers to take his time before making such an important decision rather than rushing into an extension.

The situation has also changed dramatically since he departed for the World Cup. Milan now has new leadership, a new coaching staff, and an entirely different sporting direction under Amorim, making the coming months an important evaluation period for the American.

While uncertainty surrounds Pulisic’s contract, Amorim has already publicly declared the American indispensable. “Pulisic is a really talented player; of course, he had an injury again in the World Cup that we need to assess,” Amorim said during his presentation.

The Portuguese coach also explained why he believes Pulisic fits perfectly into his tactical philosophy. “He is perfect for the way I think about football, especially here in Italy, where sometimes the teams defend so well there is less space between the lines; he is a player who can make the difference in that kind of space.”

Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly remains Jorge Jesus' trusted man ahead of Portugal's UEFA Nations League campaign for one crucial reason.

The 2026 World Cup may be in the rearview mirror, but Cristiano Ronaldo’s international journey is far from over. As Portugal kicks off a brand-new era under head coach Jorge Jesus, the legendary captain remains firmly at the heart of the squad. With the UEFA Nations League campaign fast approaching, Jesus is leaning heavily on his superstar forward to lead the line.

The appointment of Jesus marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for Portugal after Roberto Martinez stepped down following the team’s Round of 16 exit at the World Cup. While Ronaldo has yet to officially announce when he will retire from international soccer, the early signs suggest he will continue leading the Selecao das Quinas into another major competition.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) confirmed Jorge Jesus as the new national team manager, handing the experienced coach a contract that runs through the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host. After decades of success at club level across Portugal, Brazil, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia, Jesus now takes charge of his country for the first time.

His résumé includes league titles with Benfica, historic success with Flamengo, domestic trophies with Fenerbahce, and championship-winning campaigns in Saudi Arabia. Most recently, he guided Al-Nassr to its first Saudi Pro League title in seven years, working closely with Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix throughout the season.

Ronaldo remains firmly in the manager’s plans

Questions about Ronaldo’s international future intensified after Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup Round of 16, a match that ended with the captain leaving the field in tears. Although he acknowledged it was his final World Cup appearance, Ronaldo refused to rush into a decision regarding retirement.

“I’m sad to be leaving the World Cup like this. I gave it my all. I did my best. It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family. I won’t be making any rash decisions. I don’t decide anything in the heat of the moment.” Source: Ronaldo’s post-match comments.

Jesus quickly made his own position clear after accepting the Portugal job. “As long as he’s playing and is in a condition to be selected, I will pick him, within certain limits and under the conditions that I consider best for the national team,” the new Portugal coach said.

“I haven’t spoken with him yet. He is never going to be a problem for the national team. Not for the national team, nor for me. I had great pleasure working with him this past year. It’s easy to work with him.”

The key reason behind Jesus’ confidence

As preparations begin for the next UEFA Nations League campaign, reports suggest Jesus has a very specific reason for continuing to trust Ronaldo.

According to ESPN journalist Bruno Andrade, speaking to Mais Futebol, Jesus wants to make the most of the extensive tactical, technical, and physical understanding of Cristiano Ronaldo acquired during their successful time together at Al-Nassr. That familiarity is expected to help the coach carefully manage Ronaldo’s workload throughout the UEFA Nations League, whose knockout phase will only take place in 2027.

The report also states that both the coach and the player are fully committed to the upcoming competition. Ronaldo has already confirmed he does not intend to play at the 2030 World Cup, but he has not established a timeline for ending his international career.

Ronaldo’s personal objective remains alive

Bruno Andrade also revealed another factor motivating the Portugal captain: “Cristiano Ronaldo needs just 24 more goals to reach 1000 in his career. And his biggest wish is to score that 1000th goal with the Portuguese national team, not with Al-Nassr.”

The journalist added that one point already appears settled inside the national team. “The one thing that’s certain so far is that Cristiano Ronaldo wants to play in the UEFA Nations League. Jorge Jesus also wants Cristiano Ronaldo in the squad for the tournament.”

As the very foundation of the club trembles, desperate supporters are left to wonder if their star-studded armada can weather this monumental turmoil and conquer the battlefield.

While icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Felix, and Sadio Mane stand ready to fight for Al-Nassr once more, a dark storm of financial turmoil is brewing off the pitch. The Saudi titan has been plunged into a sudden and devastating crisis, casting a heavy shadow over their upcoming campaign. As the very foundation of the club trembles, desperate supporters are left to wonder if their star-studded armada can weather this monumental turmoil and conquer the battlefield.

The Saudi Pro League champion has ambitions of challenging for major honors under new manager Ange Postecoglou, but recent developments have cast doubt over those plans. Reports indicate that financial issues have disrupted transfer activity and even affected player payments, creating fresh challenges before the new campaign begins.

According to Al-Riyadiyah, Al-Nassr has yet to submit the financial documentation required to prove its ability to register new contracts. Club officials reportedly remain responsible for completing those procedures, while mounting financial obligations have placed the organization under significant pressure.

The report claims that the club’s debts have now exceeded its revenues, leaving Al-Nassr unable to meet several financial commitments from its existing budget. As a result, new signings have effectively been placed on hold until the situation improves.

What’s more, it’s said that several first-team players have only received part of their June salaries, while the club is also struggling to bring in a foreign replacement following Marcelo Brozovic’s departure. Those restrictions have slowed the club’s transfer plans during one of the busiest periods of the summer.

Why the crisis has emerged

Despite speculation, an informed source told Al-Riyadiyah that the Ministry of Sports and the Saudi Pro League have already fulfilled every financial obligation owed to Al-Nassr. The club has reportedly received all payments linked to government support programs as well as the recruitment initiative for the current season.

The source explained: “It is up to Al-Nassr’s management to decide whether those funds should be used to settle part of the club’s existing financial obligations.”

According to the same source, the club’s problems stem from financial decisions and contractual commitments accumulated over recent years, rather than missing payments from Saudi soccer authorities. Until those obligations are addressed, the Knight of Najd cannot take on additional contractual commitments or complete transfer registrations.

Salary concerns and transfer restrictions

The financial issues appear to extend beyond transfer activity. Reports claim some players are still waiting to receive their full salaries, while bonuses linked to previous league achievements also remain outstanding. Al-Nassr has reportedly been unable to renew contracts for several young players, adding another layer of uncertainty as preparations continue for the new season.

Those setbacks have fueled concern among supporters about how quickly the club can stabilize its finances. Earlier reports also suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo briefly stopped playing earlier this year because of delayed wage payments and concerns over support for the squad, before returning after outstanding salaries were settled and management issues were addressed.

Not everyone believes the situation will last. The club’s former legal department director, Saad Al-Subaie, insists the difficulties are only temporary because several sponsorship agreements have already been secured.

He wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Four companies have already transferred funds to Al-Nassr. The remaining companies are expected to transfer their funds within the next two weeks. The current financial crisis is only temporary, and work is underway to resolve it. Al-Nassr are expected to make signings this summer.”

Which players are staying and who could leave?

While departures continue to be assessed, Jhon Duran has already been confirmed to leave the club. Meanwhile, Saad Al-Subaie has indicated several players remain under evaluation regarding possible exits, including Bento Krepski, Wesley Texeira, Haydeer Abdulkareem, Haroune Camara, Mohammed Maran, and Sami Al-Najei.

Player	Nationality	Status
Bento Krepski	Brazil	Under evaluation
Wesley Teixeira	Brazil	80% chance of departure
Haydeer Abdulkareem	Saudi Arabia	70% chance of departure
Haroune Camara	Saudi Arabia	Under evaluation
Mohammed Maran	Saudi Arabia	Under evaluation
Sami Al-Najei	Saudi Arabia	Under evaluation
Jhon Duran	Colombia	Confirmed departure

At the same time, Cristiano Ronaldo, Mohamed Simakan, Inigo Martinez, Joao Felix, Kingsley Coman, Sadio Mane, and Angelo Gabriel have all been identified as players expected to remain at Al-Nassr. Their presence gives Postecoglou an impressive core, provided the club resolves its financial issues in time.

Player	Nationality	Status
Cristiano Ronaldo	Portugal	Confirmed to stay
Mohamed Simakan	France	Confirmed to stay
Inigo Martinez	Spain	Confirmed to stay
Joao Felix	Portugal	Confirmed to stay
Kingsley Coman	France	Confirmed to stay
Sadio Mane	Senegal	Confirmed to staya
Angelo Gabriel	Brazil	Confirmed to stay

Pedri has officially been named to the bench, and fans are absolutely buzzing and wondering why the brilliant Barcelona playmaker is absent from the starting lineup.

The stage is set in Arlington for an absolute blockbuster 2026 World Cup semi-final between Spain and France, but La Roja will be kicking things off without one of their brightest stars. Pedri has officially been named to the bench, and fans are absolutely buzzing and wondering why the brilliant Barcelona playmaker is absent from the starting lineup.

The semi-final brings together the tournament’s most prolific attack and one of its stingiest defenses, with France arriving after scoring 16 goals in six matches while Spain has conceded only once throughout the competition. The winner will advance to the 2026 World Cup Final, making every tactical decision even more significant.

Les Bleus enter the match in outstanding form after winning all six of their matches, powered by an attack led by Kylian Mbappe, who has already scored eight goals in the tournament. Didier Deschamps’ side also benefits from the creativity of Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, giving Les Bleus one of the deepest attacking units in international football.

La Roja, on the other hand, approaches the contest from a different angle. Luis de la Fuente’s side has relied on disciplined defending, patient possession, and the influence of Rodri in midfield, while Lamine Yamal continues to provide creativity from the wing as La Roja chases another appearance in the World Cup final.

Date	Competition	H2H Result
June 5, 2025	UEFA Nations League Semifinal	Spain 5-4 France
July 9, 2024	UEFA Euro 2024 Semifinal	Spain 2-1 France
October 10, 2021	UEFA Nations League Final	France 2-1 Spain
March 28, 2017	International Friendly	France 0-2 Spain
September 4, 2014	International Friendly	France 1-0 Spain

Why Pedri isn’t starting against France

The biggest surprise from Spain‘s lineup is Pedri beginning on the bench for the second consecutive knockout match, but the decision is based on tactical considerations rather than injury.

According to De la Fuente, Spain asks something different of the Barcelona midfielder than his club does. “Pedri can’t play for us the way he plays for Barca. Our style of play is different. We might have some similarities, but it’s different,” the Spain manager explained to El Larguero earlier.

The coach expanded on that idea by explaining that the national team requires different qualities depending on the opponent and the midfield structure around Rodri. “Playing for Spain demands something different,” De la Fuente said, adding that the national team “has a different approach to football” than Barcelona.

Fabian Ruiz earned another opportunity

Fabian Ruiz’s outstanding display against Belgium played a decisive role in Spain’s selection. The Paris Saint-Germain midfielder replaced Pedri in the quarter-final, scored the opening goal in the 2-1 victory, and convinced the coaching staff to keep faith with the same midfield combination.

Rather than making changes before one of the biggest matches of the tournament, Spain has chosen continuity, trusting the trio of Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, and Dani Olmo that successfully carried the team through the previous round.

De la Fuente also admitted he sees value in both midfielders. “Each one has their strengths. Each player offers what we need… But they can also both play together. So if I have that doubt, we’ll put both in, and the problem is solved,” he joked with a smile before the match.

Pedri’s World Cup has lacked its usual influence

Pedri has controlled possession well throughout the tournament, but he has yet to produce the decisive attacking contributions many expected. Entering the semi-final, he has not registered a goal or an assist, despite remaining one of Spain’s most technically gifted players.

La Roja’s coaching staff believes Fabian Ruiz currently offers greater directness around the penalty area, especially against a French side that can punish mistakes with devastating counterattacks. That tactical preference has outweighed Pedri’s creativity for this particular matchup.

At the same time, Spain’s exceptional midfield depth gives De la Fuente several options. Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena, and Pedri all provide different qualities, allowing the manager to tailor his lineup according to the opponent.

Instead of just sharing the spotlight, the two superstars bring an unbelievable head-to-head record into this matchup that simply cannot be ignored.

The 2026 World Cup has delivered an absolute dream semi-final at AT&T Stadium, where France and Spain will battle for a ticket to the final. At the heart of this heavyweight clash is the spectacular rivalry between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. Instead of just sharing the spotlight, the two superstars bring an unbelievable head-to-head record into this matchup that simply cannot be ignored.

France enters the match hoping to reach a third consecutive World Cup final, while Spain looks to continue its rise after winning Euro 2024 and establish itself among soccer’s modern dynasties. At club level, Real Madrid and Barcelona have already witnessed plenty of battles between the two stars, but this meeting carries greater stakes than anything they have faced before.

Mbappe remains France’s driving force

France has enjoyed another impressive tournament under Didier Deschamps, who is leading the national team for the final time after 14 years in charge. Les Bleus have powered through the knockout rounds with victories over Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco, building momentum without appearing stretched to their limits.

The attack has been the tournament’s biggest weapon. Mbappe has scored eight goals, sharing the lead in the Golden Boot race, while Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and the rest of the supporting cast have given France one of the most dangerous forward lines in the competition.

However, a few players have enjoyed a World Cup career like Mbappe. The Real Madrid star already owns a World Cup winner’s medal from 2018, produced a memorable hat-trick in the 2022 final, and has become France’s all-time leading scorer.

Tournament Stat	Kylian Mbappe	Lamine Yamal
Matches Played	6	6
Goals	8	1
Expected Goals (xG)	5.39	1.51
Shots per Game	5.0 (3.2 on target)	3.8 (1.7 on target)
Accurate Passes per Game	26.8 (87%)	26.0 (83%)
Top Speed	35.3 km/h	35.5 km/h
Average Sofascore Rating	8.28	7.25

Yamal continues to grow into soccer’s next superstar

Spain has reached the last four by combining defensive discipline with trademark possession soccer. The national team has conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, while producing knockout victories over Austria, Portugal and Belgium.

Although Yamal has not matched Mbappe’s scoring numbers during this World Cup, the teenager remains Spain’s most exciting attacking talent. After overcoming a hamstring injury before the tournament, the Barcelona winger has gradually rediscovered his rhythm.

The head-to-head record adds another layer to the rivalry

While the semi-final is about two elite national teams, the individual duel between Mbappe and Yamal has developed into one of soccer’s most fascinating rivalries.

Yamal has won eight of his previous 10 meetings with Mbappe for club and country, giving the Barcelona winger an 80 percent success rate against the France captain. Those victories include Euro 2024, the 2025 UEFA Nations League semi-final, multiple El Clasicos, the Copa del Rey final, and the Spanish Super Cup.

Season / Tournament	Match	Result (Winner)	Mbappe Contributions	Yamal Contributions
2023–24 Champions League (QF)	PSG vs Barcelona	2-3 (Yamal)	–	–
2023–24 Champions League (QF)	Barcelona vs PSG	1-4 (Mbappe)	2 Goals	1 Assist
Euro 2024 (Semi-final)	Spain vs France	2-1 (Yamal)	1 Assist	1 Goal
2024–25 La Liga	Real Madrid vs Barcelona	0-4 (Yamal)	–	1 Goal
2025 Supercopa de España (Final)	Real Madrid vs Barcelona	2-5 (Yamal)	1 Goal	2 Goals
2024–25 Copa del Rey (Final)	Barcelona vs Real Madrid	3-2 (Yamal)	1 Goal	2 Assists
2024–25 La Liga	Barcelona vs Real Madrid	4-3 (Yamal)	3 Goals	1 Goal
2025 Nations League (Semi-final)	Spain vs France	5-4 (Yamal)	1 Goal	2 Goals
2025–26 La Liga	Real Madrid vs Barcelona	2-1 (Mbappe)	1 Goal	–
2026 Supercopa de España (Final)	FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid	3-2 (Yamal)	–	–

Mbappe has enjoyed memorable individual performances during those encounters, including scoring nine goals across the meetings, but the overall results have frequently favored Yamal’s side.

Their rivalry began in the 2023-24 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, before carrying over into international soccer and then into several memorable clashes between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Tuesday’s semi-final marks their first-ever meeting at a FIFA World Cup, making it arguably the most important chapter of the rivalry so far.

Stat	Kylian Mbappe	Lamine Yamal
Total Wins	2	8
Draws	0	0
Goals Scored (in H2H)	9	6
Assists (in H2H)	2	3
Elimination Match Wins	0	5

The stakes couldn't be higher, and fans are buzzing to see exactly how this do-or-die result will define the ultimate road to the tournament's biggest prize.

France and Spain are squaring off in an absolutely massive Semi-finals showdown at the 2026 World Cup. Didier Deschamps’ squad is gearing up to battle Luis de la Fuente’s reigning European champions in Arlington. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and fans are buzzing to see exactly how this do-or-die result will define the ultimate road to the tournament’s biggest prize.

France enters the contest after an impressive run through the knockout rounds, while Spain has continued to showcase the possession-based soccer that has become its trademark. With stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue, Rodri, and Lamine Yamal expected to feature, the semifinal promises to be one of the standout matches of the competition.

France arrives with confidence

Les Bleus have looked like one of the tournament’s most complete teams. They topped their group before defeating Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco to reach the semifinal without conceding a goal in the knockout rounds.

Didier Deschamps has built an attack capable of hurting opponents in several different ways. Mbappe leads the Golden Boot race with eight goals. At the same time, Dembele continues to justify his reputation after winning the Ballon d’Or, and Olise has emerged as one of the tournament’s leading creators.

Date	France’s Opponent	Stage	Result
July 9, 2026	Morocco	Quarter-finals	Win (2-0)
July 4, 2026	Paraguay	Round of 16	Win (1-0)
June 30, 2026	Sweden	Round of 32	Win (3-0)
June 26, 2026	Norway	Group Stage	Win (4-1)
June 22, 2026	Iraq	Group Stage	Win (3-0)
June 16, 2026	Senegal	Group Stage	Win (3-1)

The team has also become increasingly balanced as the tournament has progressed. Adrien Rabiot and Manu Kone have provided stability behind an explosive front four, allowing Deschamps to play with greater attacking freedom than in previous World Cups.

Spain continues to trust its identity

Spain has taken a different route to the semifinals. Luis de la Fuente’s side has relied on patience, possession and defensive discipline, conceding only once throughout the tournament.

Rodri continues to dictate the tempo in midfield, while Lamine Yamal remains one of soccer’s brightest young stars despite not yet reaching his peak scoring form in North America. Mikel Merino has repeatedly delivered from the bench, scoring decisive late goals against both Portugal and Belgium.

Date	Spain’s Opponent	Stage	Result
July 10, 2026	Belgium	Quarter-finals	Win (2-1)
July 6, 2026	Portugal	Round of 16	Win (1-0)
July 2, 2026	Austria	Round of 32	Win (3-0)
June 27, 2026	Uruguay	Group Stage	Win (1-0)
June 21, 2026	Saudi Arabia	Group Stage	Win (4-0)
June 15, 2026	Cabo Verde	Group Stage	Tie (0-0)

Spain’s confidence also comes from recent history against France. La Roja defeated Les Bleus in the Euro 2024 semifinal and again in the 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinal, giving them belief that another victory is possible.

What happens if France wins and Spain loses?

A French victory would send Les Bleus into another World Cup final, where they would meet the winner of the Argentina vs England semifinal.

Spain would then be eliminated from title contention and move into the Third-Place Match.

A place in the final would also continue France’s remarkable consistency at the highest level, adding another chapter to one of international soccer’s strongest modern eras.

What happens if France and Spain are level after 90 minutes?

Although the match could finish level after regulation, the semifinal itself cannot end in a draw.

Instead, the teams would play 30 minutes of extra time, and if neither side finds a winner, the contest would be settled by a penalty shootout.

Only after those stages would the World Cup bracket be completed, with one team advancing to the final and the other dropping into the third-place playoff.

Date	Competition	H2H Result
June 5, 2025	UEFA Nations League Semifinal	Spain 5-4 France
July 9, 2024	UEFA Euro 2024 Semifinal	Spain 2-1 France
October 10, 2021	UEFA Nations League Final	France 2-1 Spain
March 28, 2017	International Friendly	France 0-2 Spain
September 4, 2014	International Friendly	France 1-0 Spain

What happens if Spain wins and France loses?

Should Spain prevail in regulation, extra time, or penalties, La Roja would book its place in the World Cup Final and face either Argentina or England for the championship.

France would instead head to the Third-Place Match, where it would play the loser of the tournament’s other semifinal.

While missing out on the final would be disappointing for Deschamps’ squad, Les Bleus would still have the opportunity to finish the tournament with a podium place.

While the national team had received encouraging updates before the match, uncertainty continued to surround the Arsenal star, leaving supporters wondering why he would not feature in one of England's biggest matches of the tournament.

Marcus Rashford has been included in England’s matchday squad for the 2026 World Cup quarter-final against Norway, but the forward starts on the bench rather than in the starting XI. While many supporters expected the forward star to feature from kickoff, manager Thomas Tuchel has opted for a different tactical approach.

England enters the quarterfinal after a dramatic victory over Mexico, while Norway arrives full of confidence following its historic elimination of Brazil. With a semifinal place at stake, both national teams approach the contest carrying momentum. Rashford remains an important part of England’s plans despite not being selected in the starting lineup.

The Three Lions booked their place in the last eight by defeating Mexico 3-2 in one of the tournament’s most demanding matches. Playing the final 36 minutes with 10 men after Jarell Quansah’s dismissal, the European side showed resilience to protect its lead despite relentless pressure.

Jude Bellingham scored twice in the opening half before Harry Kane added a penalty after the break. Although Mexico fought back with two late goals, England’s defense held firm to preserve the victory and extend its unbeaten World Cup campaign.

Round	Norway’s Results	England’s Results
Group Stage Match 1	Won 4–1 vs. Iraq	Won 4–2 vs. Croatia
Group Stage Match 2	Won 3–2 vs. Senegal	Drew 0–0 vs. Ghana
Group Stage Match 3	Lost 1–4 vs. France	Won 2–0 vs. Panama
Round of 32	Won 2–1 vs. Ivory Coast	Won 2–1 vs. DR Congo
Round of 16	Won 2–1 vs. Brazil	Won 3–2 vs. Mexico

Norway, meanwhile, produced one of the biggest surprises of the competition by eliminating Brazil 2-1. Erling Haaland scored twice in the final 11 minutes, continuing his outstanding tournament after reaching seven goals in five matches.

Why Marcus Rashford is on the bench against Norway

Why isn’t Marcus Rashford starting for England against Norway?

The biggest reason behind Rashford’s absence from the starting XI is Anthony Gordon’s impressive displays during the tournament.

According to The New York Times, Tuchel has preferred Gordon on the left wing after the Newcastle United attacker produced standout performances, including his display against Mexico. Those performances helped Gordon move ahead in the current selection order as England prepares for the knockout clash.

Rather than making changes because of fitness concerns, Tuchel’s decision reflects the competitive battle for places across England’s attacking positions.

Rashford remains an important option

Although he starts among the substitutes, Rashford continues to play a significant role in England’s World Cup campaign.

The forward has already made valuable contributions during the tournament, including scoring against Croatia, demonstrating his ability to influence matches when called upon. His pace, direct running and finishing ability make him one of England’s most dangerous options later in games.

Defending champions Argentina and an undefeated Switzerland are ready to leave it all on the pitch.

Gearing up for a massive Quarter-final battle this Saturday, defending champions Argentina and an undefeated Switzerland are ready to leave it all on the pitch. While the defending champion enters the clash as the favorite, the Swiss arrives unbeaten and determined to produce one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. Whatever the final score, the outcome will have enormous consequences for the road to the World Cup final.

La Albiceleste arrives in Kansas City after surviving two dramatic knockout matches. Lionel Scaloni’s side needed extra time to eliminate Cape Verde before producing an incredible comeback from two goals down to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16.

Lionel Messi once again led the charge despite missing a penalty before scoring the equalizer, while Cristian Romero and Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround. The defending champion has now extended its unbeaten World Cup run while continuing its pursuit of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.

Switzerland has quietly put together one of its strongest World Cup campaigns in decades. Murat Yakin’s team topped its group before defeating Algeria and then eliminating Colombia via penalty shootout after a scoreless draw.

Date	Argentina’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 16, 2026	Algeria	Group Stage	Win (3–0)
June 22, 2026	Austria	Group Stage	Win (2–0)
June 27, 2026	Jordan	Group Stage	Win (3–1)
July 3, 2026	Cape Verde	Round of 32	Win (3–2 AET)
July 7, 2026	Egypt	Round of 16	Win (3–2)

The Swiss have conceded only three goals throughout the tournament and have relied heavily on goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, captain Granit Xhaka, and a disciplined defensive structure. However, the Rossocrociati will once again be without midfielder Johan Manzambi, whose knee injury continues to sideline one of the team’s most productive attacking players.

Date	Switzerland’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 13, 2026	Qatar	Group Stage	Draw (1–1)
June 18, 2026	Bosnia & Herzegovina	Group Stage	Win (4–1)
June 24, 2026	Canada	Group Stage	Win (2–1)
July 2, 2026	Algeria	Round of 32	Win (2–0)
July 7, 2026	Colombia	Round of 16	Draw (0–0, won 4–3 on penalties)

What happens if Argentina wins and Switzerland loses?

Should Argentina win in regulation, extra time, or penalties, the defending champion will book a place in the semifinals, where it will meet the winner of the England vs. Norway quarterfinal.

Victory would also keep alive Argentina’s dream of becoming the first back-to-back World Cup champion in more than six decades. The semifinal would take place in Atlanta on July 15, leaving the Albiceleste just one victory away from another appearance in the World Cup Final.

What happens if the match is tied after 90 minutes?

Unlike group-stage matches, this quarterfinal cannot finish as a permanent draw. If the teams remain level after regulation, the match will proceed to 30 minutes of extra time, and if neither side finds a winner, the semifinal place will be decided through a penalty shootout.

That possibility feels realistic considering Switzerland’s defensive organization and Argentina’s recent habit of producing late drama throughout the knockout rounds.

Current 2026 World Cup Playoff Bracket

The left side of the bracket is already locked in, while the right side will be determined by the final quarterfinal matches. [1, 2]

Tournament Round	Left Side of Bracket	Right Side of Bracket
Quarter-finals	France 2-0 Morocco Spain 2-1 Belgium	England vs. Norway Argentina vs. Switzerland
Semi-finals	France vs. Spain (July 14)	England/Norway vs. Argentina/Switzerland (July 15)
World Cup Final	Winner Semifinal 1 (July 19)	Winner Semifinal 2 (July 19)

What happens if Switzerland wins and Argentina loses?

A Swiss victory would immediately become one of the biggest stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Not only would Switzerland eliminate the reigning world champion, but it would also secure its first-ever World Cup semifinal appearance, continuing what has already been one of the nation’s finest international tournaments.

Captain Granit Xhaka knows exactly what his team is facing. “I don’t know that we can stop Lionel Messi over 90 minutes. It’s going to be difficult. But we have to be smart, compact, close the gaps, and not give him too many spaces.”

Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a powerful reminder that reputation alone will not guarantee a place under Jorge Jesus, while Neymar unexpectedly became part of the conversation as the new Portugal boss outlined his coaching philosophy.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been handed a powerful reminder that reputation alone will not guarantee a place under Jorge Jesus, while Neymar unexpectedly became part of the conversation as the new Portugal boss outlined his coaching philosophy. With Carlo Ancelotti also navigating the challenge of managing superstar personalities at international level, Jesus’ comments offer an intriguing glimpse into how elite coaches balance respect for legends with difficult decisions.

Portugal enters a new era after Roberto Martinez stepped down following the national team’s Round of 16 exit at the 2026 World Cup, ending a disappointing campaign far earlier than expected. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) moved swiftly, appointing 71-year-old Jorge Jesus on a four-year contract that will run through Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, which Portugal will co-host alongside Spain and Morocco.

Jesus takes over after enjoying a successful season alongside Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, where the pair helped deliver the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title. Their previous working relationship has naturally raised questions about whether Ronaldo will continue playing an important role for Portugal despite suggesting the recently concluded World Cup was his final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

The veteran coach made it clear that personal history would never outweigh what benefits the national team. While praising Ronaldo’s professionalism and influence, Jesus stressed that every selection decision would ultimately be made according to his own soccer judgment: “He is a symbol of Portuguese football, of the national team, of Portugal. That will always be part of history, and I had a great pleasure working with him this year.”

Jesus also explained that communication would remain open with every player in the squad: “When I have to make a decision, I will speak to him. But not only to him, I will speak to everyone individually. I’m not going to speak to Cris just because he’s Cris.”

The Neymar story that explains Jesus’ philosophy

During his introductory press conference, Jesus revealed the striking anecdote that quickly became one of the biggest talking points surrounding his appointment.

Looking back on his managerial career, the Portuguese coach reminded reporters that he has already worked with two modern soccer icons before referencing a brutally honest conversation he once had with Neymar during their time together at Al-Hilal.  “I’ve already coached two of the three best players in the world; I won’t coach the third, who is Lionel Messi. I coached Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar.”

He then recalled the moment that perfectly illustrates how he approaches even the world’s biggest stars: “One day I had to tell Neymar straight to his face: ‘You’re finished.’”

The comment stemmed from Neymar’s difficult spell in Saudi Arabia after arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023. A devastating ACL injury severely limited the Brazilian’s appearances before foreign-player registration rules eventually saw him left out of the Saudi Pro League squad, leading to his departure from Al-Hilal.

Ronaldo’s future remains open despite World Cup farewell

Although Ronaldo stated after Portugal’s elimination that the 2026 World Cup would be the last of his career, Jesus stopped well short of announcing the end of the captain’s international journey. Instead, the new manager emphasized that current performance, not age, would determine whether the veteran striker continues representing Portugal.

“If he’s playing and is in condition to play, if he’s eligible for the national team, I’ll call him up, within the limits and conditions that I deem best for the team.” The veteran boss also dismissed concerns about Ronaldo’s age by highlighting the physical standards he witnessed firsthand at Al-Nassr.

According to the coach, Ronaldo remained injury-free throughout their season together, regularly covering around eight kilometers per match while reaching speeds exceeding 25 km/h. Those numbers convinced Jesus that age alone should never become a deciding factor when evaluating elite players.

Before the match is even played, the spotlight has shifted beyond tactics and results, as Paredes shared an emotional insight into what truly motivates the squad, while Argentina continues its quest to reach the semifinals.

Argentina is preparing for a crucial 2026 World Cup quarterfinal against Switzerland, with Lionel Messi and Leandro Paredes once again at the heart of the defending champion’s story. Before the match is even played, the spotlight has shifted beyond tactics and results, as Paredes shared an emotional insight into what truly motivates the squad, while Argentina continues its quest to reach the semifinals.

As Argentina gets ready for another high-pressure knockout clash, questions continue to surround its performances despite advancing through the tournament unbeaten. Dramatic comeback victories over Cape Verde and Egypt have kept Lionel Scaloni’s side alive, but they have also highlighted the resilience that has become a defining trait of this generation.

Although La Albiceleste entered the tournament as one of the favorites to retain the World Cup, the knockout rounds have tested every part of the squad’s character. After needing extra time to defeat Cape Verde, the defending champion looked to be heading home when Egypt established a two-goal lead in the Round of 16.

Instead, Scaloni’s players produced one of the most memorable comebacks of the tournament. Lionel Messi scored the equalizer before Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround, keeping the team’s World Cup dream alive and setting up a quarterfinal meeting with Switzerland.

Those performances have sparked debate over whether the team has relied too heavily on Messi throughout the tournament. While the captain has delivered eight goals and remains among the favorites for the Golden Boot, many observers believe the rest of the squad must shoulder more responsibility as the competition becomes increasingly difficult.

Rank	Player	National Team	Goals	Assists
1.	Kylian Mbappe	France	8	3
2.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	8	1
3.	Erling Haaland	Norway	7	0
4.	Harry Kane	England	6	1
5.	Ousmane Dembele	France	5	2

Switzerland presents different kind of challenge

Unlike some of Argentina’s previous opponents, Switzerland is built around defensive discipline and organization. Led by captain Granit Xhaka, the team has frustrated opponents by limiting space in central areas while remaining patient throughout matches.

The Swiss squad has shown it can survive under pressure for extended periods, making it a dangerous opponent despite lacking the individual star power of Argentina. Another disciplined defensive display could force the defending champion into another tense knockout battle.

Still, history favors Argentina. The South American nation has never lost to Switzerland, winning both previous World Cup meetings, including a memorable 1-0 extra-time victory in the Round of 16 at the 2014 tournament.

Leandro Paredes reveals what truly drives Argentina

While winning consecutive World Cup titles remains a historic objective, Paredes revealed another mission motivates the dressing room every single day. “We play so that Leo’s last match never arrives”, he admitted to Clarin.

“The national team’s willingness to represent an entire country, of this team that for me, as I always say, is a privilege to be a part of. We are here to help, for everyone to give what they can at any given moment, and I think we did that until the very end,” Paredes said.

He also spoke about the emotional connection between the players and Argentina’s fans. “There aren’t many words to describe what we go through, what we experience, what we feel when playing in this shirt. For me, it is a source of pride to be part of this national team; I have no other words because it truly is a pleasure,” he explained.

Before kickoff in Miami, fans are eager to learn whether both superstar strikers will feature from the opening whistle and how each national team plans to approach the high-stakes showdown.

Norway is preparing for the biggest match in its modern soccer history as it faces England in the 2026 World Cup Quarter-finals, with Erling Haaland and Harry Kane expected to headline one of the tournament’s most anticipated battles. However, before kickoff in Miami, fans are eager to learn whether both superstar strikers will feature from the opening whistle and how each national team plans to approach the high-stakes showdown.

The quarterfinal brings together two sides whose journeys have captivated supporters for different reasons. Norway has emerged as the surprise package of the tournament. At the same time, England has continued its pursuit of a first World Cup title since 1966, relying heavily on the leadership of Kane and the brilliance of Jude Bellingham.

Norway’s remarkable journey continues as England survives major tests

Few expected Norway to reach this stage when the tournament began. After ending a 28-year absence from the World Cup, the Scandinavian nation has embraced the occasion, advancing to its first-ever World Cup quarterfinal after memorable victories over Ivory Coast and five-time champions Brazil.

The victory against Brazil became one of the defining moments of the tournament. Erling Haaland scored twice in the 2-1 triumph, further cementing his reputation as one of the world’s deadliest finishers while helping Norway make history.

On the other hand, England has also experienced its share of drama during the knockout rounds. Thomas Tuchel’s side produced an impressive 3-2 victory over co-host Mexico, overcoming difficult conditions and even playing with ten men after Jarell Quansah’s dismissal.

The Three Lions have now reached their 11th World Cup quarterfinal, extending a consistent run of success at major tournaments. While defensive issues have occasionally surfaced, England’s attack has remained productive thanks to Kane, Bellingham and Bukayo Saka.

Round	Norway’s Results	England’s Results
Group Stage Match 1	Won 4–1 vs. Iraq	Won 4–2 vs. Croatia
Group Stage Match 2	Won 3–2 vs. Senegal	Drew 0–0 vs. Ghana
Group Stage Match 3	Lost 1–4 vs. France	Won 2–0 vs. Panama
Round of 32	Won 2–1 vs. Ivory Coast	Won 2–1 vs. DR Congo
Round of 16	Won 2–1 vs. Brazil	Won 3–2 vs. Mexico

Will Erling Haaland and Harry Kane play?

Both Erling Haaland and Harry Kane will start for their respective national teams, setting up one of the tournament’s most intriguing individual duels.

The former enters the quarterfinal in sensational form after scoring seven goals, placing him among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot. Meanwhile, the latter has been equally influential, contributing six goals while continuing to lead England’s attack with his movement, finishing, and experience.

Both forwards approach the game differently. Haaland remains high up the pitch, constantly searching for space behind defenders, while Kane frequently drops deeper to link midfield with attack before arriving inside the penalty area.

Norway vs England: Confirmed lineups

Norway confirmed XI (4-3-3): Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Wolfe; Odegaard, Berge, Berg; Sorloth, Erling Haaland, Schjelderup.

England confirmed XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O’Reilly; Anderson, Rice, Bellingham; Madueke, Kane, Gordon.

England's quarterfinal against Norway is one of the biggest matches remaining at the 2026 World Cup, and the outcome could dramatically reshape the tournament bracket. The Three Lions enter the contest after a thrilling victory over Mexico, while Norway arrives full of confidence following a stunning upset of Brazil. Before the first whistle in Miami, […]

England’s quarterfinal against Norway is one of the biggest matches remaining at the 2026 World Cup, and the outcome could dramatically reshape the tournament bracket. The Three Lions enter the contest after a thrilling victory over Mexico, while Norway arrives full of confidence following a stunning upset of Brazil. Before the first whistle in Miami, fans are already wondering how each possible result could alter the road to the final.

England heads into the knockout clash following a 3-2 victory over Mexico, while Norway earned a memorable 2-1 triumph over Brazil to reach its first-ever World Cup quarterfinal. With Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard all preparing for another high-pressure occasion, the winner will move one step closer to lifting soccer’s biggest prize.

The Vikings have become one of the tournament’s biggest surprises after ending a 28-year World Cup absence by reaching the last eight. Stale Solbakken’s side has combined fearless attacking soccer with remarkable resilience, eliminating Brazil after also overcoming Ivory Coast in the previous knockout round.

Date	Norway’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 16, 2026	Iraq	Group Stage	Win (4–1)
June 22, 2026	Senegal	Group Stage	Win (3–2)
June 26, 2026	France	Group Stage	Loss (1–4)
June 30, 2026	Ivory Coast	Round of 32	Win (2–1)
July 5, 2026	Brazil	Round of 16	Win (2–1)

On the other hand, the Three Lions’ journey has been equally dramatic. Thomas Tuchel’s squad survived an exhausting battle against co-host Mexico, winning despite playing with ten men for a significant portion of the second half.

Date	England’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 17, 2026	Croatia	Group Stage	Win (4–2)
June 23, 2026	Ghana	Group Stage	Draw (0–0)
June 27, 2026	Panama	Group Stage	Win (2–0)
July 1, 2026	DR Congo	Round of 32	Win (2–1)
July 5, 2026	Mexico	Round of 16	Win (3–2)

What happens if England wins and Norway loses?

If England defeats Norway, Thomas Tuchel’s side will secure a place in the 2026 World Cup Semi-finals. The Three Lions would then face the winner of Argentina versus Switzerland, keeping alive hopes of reaching another World Cup final.

Victory would also maintain England’s pursuit of its first world title since 1966. With Kane and Bellingham leading the attack, England would remain on the same side of the bracket as Argentina or Switzerland before a potential final against the winner emerging from the opposite half.

England enters the Quarter-finals carrying momentum after winning three consecutive matches while scoring at least twice in each victory. Despite lingering injury concerns, squad depth remains one of its greatest strengths entering the decisive stage of the tournament.

What happens if the match is level after 90 minutes?

If England and Norway are tied at the end of regulation, neither nation advances immediately. Instead, the quarterfinal would move into two 15-minute periods of extra time, with penalties deciding the winner if the deadlock remains.

This scenario introduces another layer of drama, especially for players already carrying yellow cards. England stars such as Jude Bellingham and several teammates could risk suspension for the semifinals if they receive another booking before eventually advancing.

Extra time would also test both squads physically after demanding knockout campaigns. Miami’s expected heat could become another significant factor as tired legs begin to influence the contest.

Tournament Round	Left Side of Bracket	Right Side of Bracket
Quarter-finals	France 2-0 Morocco Spain 2-1 Belgium	England vs. Norway Argentina vs. Switzerland
Semi-finals	France vs. Spain (July 14)	England/Norway vs. Argentina/Switzerland (July 15)
World Cup Final	Winner Semifinal 1 (July 19)	Winner Semifinal 2 (July 19)

What happens if Norway wins and England loses?

If Norway eliminates England, the Scandinavian nation would complete another historic achievement by reaching its first-ever World Cup semifinal. Such a result would become one of the greatest moments in Norwegian soccer history, following the already remarkable victory over Brazil.

The Vikings would then advance to face Argentina/Switzerland in Atlanta. England’s campaign would come to an end at the quarterfinal stage despite entering the tournament as one of the favorites.

Haaland has played a central role in Norway’s remarkable run, scoring seven goals to establish himself among the Golden Boot leaders. Martin Odegaard’s creativity, combined with the pace of Norway’s supporting attackers, has transformed the team into one of the competition’s most dangerous outsiders.

Marking the official 10th anniversary of Portugal's unforgettable UEFA Euro 2016 triumph, the legendary captain took to social media to honor the night his nation lifted its first-ever major international trophy.

Cristiano Ronaldo has just taken the soccer world on a poignant trip down memory lane to celebrate exactly a decade since one of his crowning achievements. Marking the official 10th anniversary of Portugal’s unforgettable UEFA Euro 2016 triumph, the legendary captain took to social media to honor the night his nation lifted its first-ever major international trophy.

The tribute arrived only days after the Selecao das Quinas’ 2026 World Cup campaign came to an end, giving supporters another opportunity to reflect on a victory that transformed the nation’s soccer history. Ronaldo’s post quickly attracted thousands of reactions as fans revisited the remarkable journey that ended with Portugal lifting the European Championship for the first time.

Friday, July 10, 2026, marked exactly 10 years since Portugal defeated France 1-0 after extra time in the UEFA Euro 2016 final at the Stade de France. That victory remains the country’s first major international title and one of the proudest moments in Portuguese soccer history.

Title that changed Portugal forever

Euro 2016 represented far more than another tournament victory for Portugal. It ended decades of heartbreak and delivered the country’s first major international championship after several near misses on the biggest stages.

Portugal reached the knockout rounds after drawing all three group-stage matches before overcoming Croatia, Poland and Wales. Despite criticism during parts of the competition, the squad continued finding ways to progress until reaching the final against host nation France.

The decisive match produced one of the most dramatic stories in European Championship history. Ronaldo suffered a knee injury following an early challenge from Dimitri Payet and was forced to leave the field after only 25 minutes.

Although unable to continue playing, Ronaldo remained an emotional presence on the touchline, passionately encouraging his teammates throughout the match. His leadership from the sidelines became one of the defining images of the final.

Eventually, Eder produced the moment that every Portuguese supporter still remembers. The striker scored from outside the penalty area in the 109th minute of extra time, giving Portugal a famous 1-0 victory over France and securing the nation’s first European Championship.

Ronaldo revisits Portugal’s greatest soccer triumph

To commemorate the occasion, Ronaldo shared two iconic photographs from the celebrations following the final. One image showed him lifting the Henri Delaunay Trophy alongside his teammates, while another captured him proudly posing with the silverware.

In the middle of the celebration, Ronaldo revealed the message that accompanied the post. “Uma vitória de milhões!” he wrote, a phrase that translates to “A victory worth millions!” The short caption resonated with supporters, who flooded the comments with messages praising the former Portugal captain and recalling the emotions of that unforgettable night in Paris.

Ronaldo recently explained why Euro 2016 means so much

The anniversary came shortly after Ronaldo reflected publicly on the importance of Euro 2016 following Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup. “I won three titles for Portugal. Before Cristiano, Portugal hadn’t won any. The best title I won with the national team was the 2016 European Championship, which, for me, is the same size as a World Cup”, the 41-year-old veteran said.

Those comments generated widespread debate. While many supporters viewed the FIFA World Cup as the sport’s ultimate prize, Ronaldo made it clear that Portugal’s first major trophy carried equal emotional value for him because of what it meant to his country. The latest social media post reinforced that message, showing that Euro 2016 continues to occupy a special place in his career.

Mbappe’s latest achievement has created another historic chapter in his career, proving once again that he continues to rewrite the standards expected from a modern World Cup forward.

Kylian Mbappe and Gerd Muller have been linked through World Cup history after the France superstar reached a milestone that places him among the greatest performers the tournament has ever seen. Mbappe’s latest achievement has created another historic chapter in his career, proving once again that he continues to rewrite the standards expected from a modern World Cup forward.

The Real Madrid attacker has already built a remarkable tournament legacy, but his latest performance for France against Morocco showed why he belongs in conversations with legends from previous generations. With the biggest matches still ahead, the 27-year-old has placed himself within reach of records that have stood untouched for decades.

Les Bleus continued their pursuit of another World Cup trophy after defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals. Mbappe played a decisive role in the victory, scoring one goal and creating another as France secured a place in the semifinals for the third consecutive tournament.

The forward endured a dramatic evening after missing a first-half penalty opportunity, but he quickly responded when it mattered most. Mbappe found the net after the missed spot kick before assisting Ousmane Dembele shortly afterward, completing another influential performance on the biggest stage.

The result also moved him closer to Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the World Cup’s all-time scoring record. Messi currently leads the historic ranking with 21 goals, while Mbappe has continued closing the gap during his third World Cup appearance.

Rank	Player	National Team	Goals	Assists
1.	Kylian Mbappe	France	8	3
2.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	8	1
3.	Erling Haaland	Norway	7	0
4.	Harry Kane	England	6	1
5.	Ousmane Dembele	France	5	2

The record-breaking World Cup achievement revealed

Mbappe’s performance against Morocco helped him reach a historic mark that had not been achieved since Germany legend Gerd Muller dominated the 1970 tournament.

According to Opta’sstatistics, Mbappe has recorded 11 direct goal involvements at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with eight goals and three assists. That makes him the first player since Muller in 1970 to reach at least 11 combined goals and assists in a single World Cup campaign.

Muller produced one of the greatest individual tournaments in history during the 1970 World Cup, scoring 10 goals and adding three assists for West Germany. Mbappe’s current numbers match that legendary level of influence more than five decades later.

Before Muller’s achievement, France icon Just Fontaine delivered the most extraordinary scoring tournament ever recorded, scoring 13 goals at the 1958 World Cup. Fontaine’s record remains the highest single-tournament goal tally in World Cup history.

Mbappe creates history with consistent World Cup excellence

The French superstar’s latest milestone adds another achievement to an already impressive World Cup résumé. Mbappe has now also become the first player in World Cup history to score at least eight goals in two different tournaments.

The 27-year-old scored eight goals during France’s run to the 2022 final and has matched that total during the 2026 competition. Before Mbappe, only a small group of players had managed to score eight or more goals in a single World Cup.

His performances have also surpassed some of the greatest individual campaigns in soccer history. Diego Maradona’s iconic 1986 tournament included five goals and five assists as Argentina lifted the trophy, while Mbappe has already produced greater attacking numbers during France’s current campaign.

The French superstar has turned his explosive acceleration into a major weapon throughout the tournament, leaving fans eager to discover just how far ahead he is of the competition.

Kylian Mbappe has once again reminded the soccer world why he is considered one of the most dangerous attackers of his generation, surpassing Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal in a remarkable 2026 World Cup speed ranking. The French superstar has turned his explosive acceleration into a major weapon throughout the tournament, leaving fans eager to discover just how far ahead he is of the competition.

Mbappe’s incredible physical ability has produced another historic World Cup moment, with the forward recording the fastest sprint speed among several of the tournament’s biggest stars. While goals, assists and trophies often define a player’s legacy, this latest statistic highlights the rare athletic qualities that make the France captain such a nightmare for defenders.

According to data from FIFA and Sofascore, Kylian Mbappe recorded the fastest top speed at the 2026 World Cup, reaching an incredible 37.6 km/h. The number places him comfortably above some of the quickest players in world soccer, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Norway’s Erling Haaland and Spain’s Lamine Yamal.

Mbappe’s 37.6 km/h sprint was the highest recorded mark among the leading names tracked during the tournament. His ability to explode into open space has remained one of his defining qualities, allowing France to create dangerous moments through quick transitions and direct attacking moves.

The French forward has built much of his career around devastating bursts of speed, and his latest World Cup performance has reinforced that reputation. FIFA’s recorded data once again shows why defenders often struggle when Mbappe has even a small amount of space to attack.

The record-breaking speed list revealed

The complete list of the fastest top speeds among some of the biggest 2026 World Cup stars shows just how impressive Mbappe’s advantage is.

Top speed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup:

Rank	Player	National Team	Top Speed (km/h)	Top Speed (mph)
1.	Kylian Mbappe	France	37.6 km/h	23.4 mph
2.	Achraf Hakimi	Morocco	35.6 km/h	22.1 mph
=	Erling Haaland	Norway	35.6 km/h	22.1 mph
4.	Lamine Yamal	Spain	35.5 km/h	22.1 mph
5.	Romelu Lukaku	Belgium	31.4 km/h	19.5 mph
5.	Harry Kane	England	31.4 km/h	19.5 mph
7.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	30.9 km/h	19.2 mph
8.	Granit Xhaka	Switzerland	28.9 km/h	18.0 mph

Mbappe finished nearly two kilometers per hour ahead of his closest competitors, Hakimi and Haaland, who both reached 35.6 km/h. The difference may appear small on paper, but at elite soccer level, those extra fractions of speed can decide whether a defender wins or loses a crucial duel.

Haaland and Hakimi show speed is not about position

While Mbappe dominated the rankings, the players behind him also highlighted the changing nature of athleticism in modern soccer. Achraf Hakimi and Erling Haaland both reached 35.6 km/h, proving that elite speed is no longer limited to traditional wingers.

Hakimi’s pace has become one of Morocco’s biggest weapons, with the full-back regularly combining defensive responsibilities with explosive attacking runs. His ability to cover huge distances at maximum speed has made him one of the most complete wing players in the world.

Haaland’s inclusion is perhaps even more surprising because of his size and playing style. The Norway striker is known for his strength, finishing and physical dominance, but his top speed shows that defenders must also worry about his ability to run behind the defensive line. The Manchester City forward’s combination of power and pace makes him one of the most difficult strikers to contain at the 2026 World Cup.

Lamine Yamal continues to prove elite potential, but Messi highlights different type of greatness

Another name near the top of the ranking is Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona star reached 35.5 km/h, placing him among the fastest players at the entire tournament despite his young age.

Yamal’s speed adds another dimension to his already impressive technical ability. His close control, creativity and acceleration allow him to beat defenders in multiple ways, making him one of Spain’s biggest attacking threats.

At only 18 years old, reaching such a high physical level alongside established superstars like Mbappe and Haaland highlights the extraordinary potential of the Spanish winger.

Further down the list, Lionel Messi’s 30.9 km/h top speed still attracted plenty of attention. At 39 years old, Messi remains capable of competing physically with much younger players while continuing to influence matches through intelligence, technique and timing.

Unlike younger attackers who rely heavily on explosive running, Messi has adapted his style over the years. His ability to read situations, conserve energy, and accelerate over short distances allows him to remain decisive at the highest level.

The unexpected change raised plenty of questions, as Belgium lost one of its most important midfield figures before a massive clash against a Spain side chasing another World Cup title.

Youri Tielemans was expected to play a crucial role for Belgium against Spain in the 2026 World Cup Quarter-finals, but the midfielder was suddenly removed from the starting lineup shortly before kickoff. The unexpected change raised plenty of questions, as Belgium will be without one of its most important midfield figures before a massive clash against a Spain side chasing another World Cup title.

Belgium arrives at the match with growing confidence after overcoming several challenges during the tournament. The Red Devils finished top of their group before producing dramatic knockout performances that restored belief in their chances of reaching the final stages.

Rudi Garcia and his players survived a thrilling encounter against Senegal in the Round of 32, winning 3-2 after extra time after falling behind late in the match. The team then delivered one of its best performances of the tournament with a 4-1 victory over the United States, showing the attacking quality that made it a dangerous opponent.

Spain, meanwhile, entered the quarter-final without conceding a single goal in the tournament, while also carrying a long unbeaten streak. Luis de la Fuente’s team had progressed through the competition with impressive control, combining defensive organization with the creativity of players such as Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Mikel Oyarzabal.

Why Youri Tielemans is missing for Belgium

Belgium entered the quarter-final hoping to continue its impressive turnaround at the tournament, but the team suffered an immediate blow before the match even started. Tielemans was forced out of the lineup after picking up an injury during the warm-up, leaving coach Rudi Garcia with no choice but to make a late adjustment.

According to reports from BEIN Sports France’s John Ferreira and The Athletic, Tielemans experienced discomfort during the warm-up and was removed from the starting XI despite initially being named in the lineup.

The change came only minutes before kickoff, with Belgium confirming the midfielder’s absence through its official channels. The Red Devils stated: “Following an injury during the warm-up, Youri Tielemans is replaced in the starting XI by Hans Vanaken.”

The decision meant Hans Vanaken replaced Tielemans in midfield, joining Nicolas Raskin and Kevin De Bruyne as Belgium attempts to maintain its balance against one of the strongest teams in the competition.

Major loss for Belgium’s midfield structure

Tielemans’ absence represented a significant tactical problem for Belgium because of his ability to influence matches in several areas. The midfielder provides creativity, passing range, defensive work rate, and the ability to arrive in attacking positions at important moments.

The 29-year-old had been one of Belgium’s key players during the 2026 World Cup campaign, helping the team navigate a difficult path toward the quarter-finals. His leadership and experience were especially valuable as Belgium attempted to challenge Spain’s dominant possession-based style.

The timing of the injury made the situation even more difficult. Belgium was preparing to face a Spain side that had been nearly impossible to break down, entering the match as the only team at the tournament yet to concede a goal.

Without Tielemans, Garcia had to quickly reorganize his midfield setup and rely on Vanaken to provide a different profile alongside De Bruyne and Raskin.

The decision has surprised many supporters given the Barcelona midfielder's importance to the national team. However, head coach Luis de la Fuente has opted for a different approach in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Spain takes on Belgium in the 2026 World Cup Quarter-finals without one of its biggest stars in the starting lineup, as Pedri has been left on the bench for the clash in Los Angeles. The decision has surprised many supporters given the Barcelona midfielder’s importance to the national team. However, head coach Luis de la Fuente has opted for a different approach in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Spain enters the contest in outstanding form after reaching the last eight without conceding a single goal, while Belgium arrives full of confidence following an emphatic victory over the United States. With a semifinal against France awaiting the winner, every selection decision carries enormous significance.

La Roja has continued the impressive run that began after lifting the UEFA European Championship, extending its unbeaten streak while producing one of the tournament’s strongest defensive displays. The national team topped Group H before defeating Austria and edging past Portugal thanks to Mikel Merino’s dramatic stoppage-time winner.

Belgium has enjoyed a very different path but has gathered momentum at exactly the right time. After drawing its opening two group matches, the national team responded with victories over New Zealand, Senegal, and a dominant 4-1 triumph over the United States to book its place in the quarterfinals.

Stage	Spain’s Results	Belgium’s Results
Group Stage Match 1	Draw 0-0 vs. Cabo Verde	Draw 1-1 vs. Egypt
Group Stage Match 2	Win 4-0 vs. Saudi Arabia	Draw 0-0 vs. Iran
Group Stage Match 3	Win 1-0 vs. Uruguay	Win 5-1 vs. New Zealand
Round of 32	Win 3-0 vs. Austria	Win 3-2 (AET) vs. Senegal
Round of 16	Win 1-0 vs. Portugal	Win 4-1 vs. United States

Both teams have plenty of attacking quality, although they have reached this stage in contrasting fashion. Spain has yet to concede a goal in the competition, while Belgium has scored 13 times in five matches, making Friday’s meeting one of the most anticipated fixtures of the World Cup.

Why Pedri is not starting against Belgium

The biggest surprise ahead of kickoff came when Spain released its official lineup, and Pedri was not included in the starting XI. Instead, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz was selected alongside Rodri, while Dani Olmo retained his place in a more advanced midfield role.

The decision is purely tactical rather than injury-related. Luis de la Fuente chose to reshape his midfield by giving Ruiz the starting role after his impressive performances during the knockout stage, particularly his contribution after coming off the bench against Portugal.

The New York Times has also suggested that Pedri has not quite reached his highest level during the tournament. While he has remained an important member of the squad, the coaching staff preferred the physicality, balance, and control that Fabian Ruiz provides against Belgium’s midfield.

Several analysts also pointed out that La Roja’s midfield combinations have functioned more smoothly with Rodri and Fabian operating deeper while Dani Olmo plays closer to the attack. That tactical balance appears to have convinced De la Fuente to make the only change from the side that eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.

De la Fuente backs squad depth in crucial quarterfinal

Leaving Pedri on the bench represents one of Luis de la Fuente’s boldest decisions since taking charge of the national team. However, Spain’s remarkable consistency throughout the tournament has given the coach confidence to trust a system that continues to produce results.

The 23-year-old midfielder remains one of Spain’s most influential players and could still play a decisive role later in the match. His creativity and ability to control possession make him a valuable option if Spain needs to change the rhythm of the contest.

For now, though, De la Fuente has placed his faith in Fabian Ruiz, believing the midfielder’s recent performances and tactical profile offer the best solution against Belgium. Whether that gamble proves decisive will become clear as Spain pursues a place in the 2026 World Cup semifinals.

His glaring absence casts a heavy shadow over this titanic clash, leaving supporters desperate for answers as to why the Aston Villa talisman has been sidelined for such a historic battle.

A monumental trial awaits Belgium in the 2026 World Cup Quarter-finals against Spain, yet the Red Devils must march into the crucible missing their midfield anchor, Amadou Onana. His glaring absence casts a heavy shadow over this titanic clash, leaving supporters desperate for answers as to why the Aston Villa talisman has been sidelined for such a historic battle.

The quarterfinal in Los Angeles brings together two of Europe’s strongest national teams, with Spain chasing a second World Cup title and Belgium hoping to reach the semifinals for the first time since its memorable run in 1986. While Luis de la Fuente’s squad enters the match with remarkable defensive form, Belgium has been forced into a major adjustment before kickoff.

La Roja has enjoyed an impressive tournament under Luis de la Fuente. It topped its group before eliminating Austria and edging past Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16 thanks to Mikel Merino’s dramatic late winner.

Belgium has also recovered from a slow start. After opening the tournament with two draws, the Red Devils responded with victories over New Zealand, Senegal and the United States, scoring 12 goals across those three matches.

Stage	Spain’s Results	Belgium’s Results
Group Stage Match 1	Draw 0–0 vs. Cabo Verde	Draw 1–1 vs. Egypt
Group Stage Match 2	Win 4–0 vs. Saudi Arabia	Draw 0–0 vs. Iran
Group Stage Match 3	Win 1–0 vs. Uruguay	Win 5–1 vs. New Zealand
Round of 32	Win 3–0 vs. Austria	Win 3–2 (AET) vs. Senegal
Round of 16	Win 1–0 vs. Portugal	Win 4–1 vs. United States

Rudi Garcia’s side produced one of its finest displays of the tournament by defeating the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice before Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku added further goals to secure Belgium’s place in the last eight.

Why Amadou Onana is missing against Spain

The lingering questions surrounding Amadou Onana’s absence have been met with a devastating reality. Belgium recently confirmed that their midfield warrior suffered a catastrophic ruptured ACL in his right knee during the fierce battle against the United States, cruelly ending his tournament and leaving a massive void in the heart of the squad.

The injury occurred in the 18th minute when Onana challenged for the ball alongside United States forward Christian Pulisic. The Belgian immediately grabbed his right knee before receiving treatment from the medical staff and attempting to continue.

Although he briefly returned to his feet, it quickly became clear he could not carry on. Belgium substituted him three minutes later, replacing him with Hans Vanaken in the 21st minute. Medical examinations later confirmed the worst fears for Belgium, Aston Villa and the player himself.

Belgium confirms devastating diagnosis

Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene revealed the extent of the injury after further testing. “This is devastating news, both for him personally and for the team,” Hacene said.

The Belgian medical staff has already begun coordinating with Aston Villa regarding the midfielder’s recovery. “We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Over the coming days, we will jointly determine the next steps in his medical treatment and rehabilitation.”

Despite being ruled out of the remainder of the tournament, Onana will stay with the Belgium squad through the quarterfinal to continue supporting his teammates.

Huge blow for Belgium’s midfield as Spain looks to capitalize

The injury represents a significant setback for Rudi Garcia’s tactical plans. Onana had featured in every Belgium match during the tournament and had become a crucial presence in midfield because of his defensive work, physicality and ball-winning ability.

The Red Devils’ injury concerns arrive at the worst possible time. Spain enters the quarterfinal with virtually a full-strength squad and continues to build momentum after another disciplined defensive display against Portugal.

While Belgium still boasts attacking stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Charles De Ketelaere and Jeremy Doku, losing Onana removes one of the team’s most important defensive shields against Spain’s creative midfield led by Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo.

One of the biggest questions surrounding Jesus' appointment concerned Cristiano Ronaldo's future with Portugal.

Cristiano Ronaldo will once again work alongside Jorge Jesus after the veteran coach was officially appointed as Portugal’s new manager following Roberto Martinez’s departure. The Portuguese national team is preparing for a new era after its 2026 World Cup campaign ended with a 1-0 Round of 16 defeat to Spain, and attention has quickly shifted toward what comes next under the experienced tactician.

Portugal confirmed the appointment on Friday, ending speculation over who would guide one of Europe’s most talented squads into the next international cycle. According to the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), Jesus has signed a four-year contract that will keep him in charge through the 2030 World Cup.

The Portuguese Football Federation welcomed its new coach with a simple message on social media. “A new journey begins today. Welcome to the National Team, Mister Jorge Jesus.”

Jesus will oversee Portugal in the UEFA Nations League, Euro 2028 and the 2030 World Cup, with his first assignment coming during the next international window. The 71-year-old becomes the national team’s head coach for the first time after building an impressive club career that included spells with Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Flamengo, Fenerbahce, Al-Hilal, and most recently Al-Nassr.

His arrival follows the Selecao das Quinas’ disappointing World Cup exit against Spain, a result that prompted the federation to part ways with Martinez after three years in charge. Despite possessing one of Europe’s deepest squads, Portugal failed to progress beyond the Round of 16, extending its frustrating run at the tournament.

Jesus finally addresses Cristiano Ronaldo’s international role

One of the biggest questions surrounding Jesus’ appointment concerned Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Portugal. The legendary forward previously indicated that the 2026 World Cup would be his final appearance at the tournament, but he has yet to officially announce his retirement from international soccer.

Speaking during his introductory press conference, Jesus made it clear that Ronaldo remains an important figure while also stressing that every decision will be discussed privately. “No, I haven’t spoken to Cristiano yet. Cristiano will never be a problem for the national team, nor for me,” Jesus said.

The new manager explained that Ronaldo deserves the same respect as every other player while acknowledging everything he has accomplished for Portuguese soccer. “Cristiano is an icon of Portuguese soccer, an icon of the Portuguese national team, an icon of Portugal, and he will always remain so in history.”

Relationship already built at Al-Nassr

Unlike many international coaches, Jesus already knows exactly what it is like to manage Ronaldo. The pair worked together at Al-Nassr, where they celebrated the Saudi Pro League title, with Ronaldo producing another prolific campaign in front of goal. The Portuguese captain scored 30 goals in 37 appearances under Jesus last season, continuing a partnership that now appears set to continue on the international stage.

Jesus praised the working relationship they developed in Saudi Arabia, insisting there were never any issues between them. “It has been a great pleasure working with him over the past year. Working with him has been very easy, extremely easy.”

Ronaldo’s future remains open, but selection will depend on one factor

Although Ronaldo has repeatedly suggested the 2026 World Cup would be his final tournament, Jesus indicated that no final decision has yet been made regarding the striker’s international career. The veteran coach revealed that he plans to meet individually with every member of the squad before making any long-term decisions.

“When the time comes to make any decision, I will speak with Cristiano. But I won’t speak with him alone; I will speak with him and all the players, each one individually.” Jesus also explained that their conversation will focus on Ronaldo’s ambitions for the remainder of his playing career. “We’ll discuss his future career plans and whether he wants to continue playing for Al-Nassr.”

Despite Ronaldo’s legendary status, Jesus emphasized that every player will be judged by the same sporting standards. “As long as he continues playing and meets the criteria for selection, I’ll manage him within the boundaries and standards I deem best for the national team.”

Those comments suggest Ronaldo’s experience alone will not guarantee a place in future squads, but neither will his age automatically end his international career. The final decision will depend on his performances and physical condition over the coming months.

While the final result is yet to be decided, today’s showdown could dramatically reshape the road to the trophy.

Spain and Belgium meet in one of the biggest matches of the 2026 World Cup, with a semifinal place hanging in the balance. While the final result is yet to be decided, today’s showdown could dramatically reshape the road to the trophy. Stay with us to discover how every possible outcome could influence the tournament bracket and determine who takes the next step toward World Cup glory.

Spain enters the quarterfinal after an impressive run that has strengthened its reputation as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. Belgium, meanwhile, arrives with renewed confidence after convincingly eliminating the United States and hopes to continue its resurgence against the reigning European champion.

Spain and Belgium arrive with contrasting journeys

La Roja topped Group H with seven points, defeating Saudi Arabia and Uruguay while drawing with Cape Verde before cruising past Austria 3-0 and edging Portugal 1-0 in the knockout rounds. Luis de la Fuente’s side has become one of the tournament’s standout performers thanks to its disciplined defensive structure and patient possession-based approach.

Belgium’s route has been far more dramatic. The Red Devils finished first in Group G with five points, beating New Zealand and drawing with Egypt and Iran before surviving Senegal in extra time and producing an emphatic 4-1 victory over co-host USA in the Round of 16.

Date	Spain’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 15, 2026	Cabo Verde	Group Stage	Draw (0–0)
June 21, 2026	Saudi Arabia	Group Stage	Win (4–0)
June 26, 2026	Uruguay	Group Stage	Win (1–0)
July 2, 2026	Austria	Round of 32	Win (3–0)
July 6, 2026	Portugal	Round of 16	Win (1–0)

The European champion also arrives carrying remarkable momentum. Spain has not conceded a goal throughout the tournament and became the first national team in World Cup history to keep six consecutive clean sheets. Goalkeeper Unai Simon has also extended his scoreless streak beyond 600 minutes in the competition.

Belgium, however, has shown steady improvement after an inconsistent group stage. Veteran stars Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois continue to provide leadership, while younger players such as Charles De Ketelaere and Leandro Trossard have added another dimension to the attack.

Date	Belgium’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 15, 2026	Egypt	Group Stage	Draw (1–1)
June 21, 2026	Iran	Group Stage	Draw (0–0)
June 26, 2026	New Zealand	Group Stage	Win (5–1)
July 1, 2026	Senegal	Round of 32	Win (3–2 AET)
July 6, 2026	United States	Round of 16	Win (4–1)

What happens if Spain wins and Belgium loses?

A Spanish victory would send La Roja into the 2026 World Cup semifinals, where France already awaits after the French defeated Morocco 2-0.

Spain would continue its unbeaten tournament, extend its historic defensive run, and move within one victory of reaching its first World Cup final since winning the competition in 2010. Belgium, meanwhile, would see its tournament come to an end despite its late resurgence.

The victory would also reinforce Spain’s status as one of the leading favorites to capture a second World Cup title under Luis de la Fuente.

What happens if the match is tied after 90 minutes?

A draw at the end of regulation would not decide the bracket. Instead, the quarterfinal would move into two 15-minute periods of extra time.

Should the teams remain level after 120 minutes, the semifinal spot would be decided through a penalty shootout. Only then would one team officially secure its place against France while the other would be eliminated.

Unlike the group stage, there is no possibility of both teams advancing or sharing points once the knockout rounds begin.

What happens if Belgium wins and Spain loses?

A Belgian victory would produce one of the biggest surprises of the tournament. The Red Devils would advance to their first World Cup semifinal since finishing third in 2018 and earn a meeting with France in Dallas.

Spain’s impressive unbeaten streak would come to an end, eliminating one of the strongest contenders before the final four. Such a result would also mark another memorable chapter for Belgium’s experienced generation led by Courtois, De Bruyne, and Lukaku.

While the veteran captain is already among the tournament's top scorers and remains central to Argentina's title defense, another remarkable achievement has emerged that further cements his legendary status.

Lionel Messi continues to produce unforgettable moments for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, with the reigning champion marching into the quarterfinals after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt. While the veteran captain is already among the tournament’s top scorers and remains central to Argentina’s title defense, another remarkable achievement has emerged that further cements his legendary status.

The 39-year-old has once again become the heartbeat of Argentina‘s campaign, combining goals, assists and world-class creativity to inspire another deep run. His performances have reminded fans why he remains one of soccer’s greatest players, even as younger stars challenge for the spotlight.

Messi played a decisive role in La Albiceleste’s victory over Egypt, scoring once and providing an assist as the defending champion booked its place in the quarterfinals. The result set up a meeting with Switzerland and kept alive the dream of winning a second consecutive World Cup title.

His individual numbers have been equally impressive. Messi has scored eight goals at the tournament, leaving him one behind Kylian Mbappe of France and Erling Haaland of Norway in the Golden Boot race, while sitting two clear of Harry Kane.

Rank	Player	Country	Goals	Assists
1.	Lionel Messi	Argentina	8	1
2.	Kylian Mbappe	France	7	2
3.	Erling Haaland	Norway	7	0
4.	Harry Kane	England	6	1
5.	Ousmane Dembele	France	4	2
6.	Mikel Oyarzabal	Spain	4	1

Messi achieves World Cup record unlike any other

As Argentina celebrated qualification, Opta revealed a statistic that highlighted just how complete Messi’s performances have been throughout the tournament. Since detailed statistical tracking began in 1966, Messi has become the only player in a single FIFA World Cup to create at least 10 chances, complete at least 10 dribbles, make at least 10 through balls, and win at least 10 fouls.

His numbers underline the achievement even further. Messi has created 15 chances, completed 10 successful dribbles, delivered 11 through balls and won 13 fouls, becoming the first player in nearly six decades of Opta‘s records to reach all four milestones in the same World Cup.

The record illustrates every aspect of his influence on the field. Beyond scoring goals, the 39-year-old has consistently unlocked defenses with incisive passing, carried the ball through pressure, drawn fouls in dangerous areas, and dictated Argentina’s attacking rhythm.

Defying age on soccer’s biggest stage

Many players excel in one statistical category during a major tournament, but Messi has dominated across several different areas simultaneously. His vision, close control and decision-making have allowed him to remain one of the competition’s most influential performers despite being one of its oldest outfield stars.

Rather than relying solely on finishing ability, the Argentina captain has contributed in virtually every attacking phase. Whether creating opportunities for teammates or carrying the ball through crowded defenses, he has remained the focal point of his national team’s offense.

At 39 years old, Messi continues to deliver performances that many expected from players entering their prime instead of approaching the twilight of their careers. His consistency throughout the tournament has surprised even longtime observers, proving that experience, intelligence, and technical brilliance can still dominate at the highest level.

Lionel Messi just unlocked another mind-blowing milestone. The legendary Argentine captain shattered a World Cup record that even Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric never managed to touch.

Lionel Messi just unlocked another mind-blowing milestone. The legendary Argentine captain shattered a World Cup record that even Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric never managed to touch. As Argentina fiercely defends its title, Messi is proving age is just a number on soccer’s biggest stage.

The Argentina national team has relied heavily on Messi throughout the 2026 World Cup, and the captain has continued to answer every challenge with decisive performances. His latest accomplishment further strengthens an already unmatched legacy and highlights how he continues to redefine what is possible for players approaching the latter stages of their careers.

Messi’s newest milestone arrived during one of the most memorable matches of the tournament. The Argentina national team produced a stunning 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in the Round of 16 after trailing by two goals late in the second half.

Messi first provided the assist for Cristian Romero’s goal before scoring the equalizer himself, allowing Enzo Fernandez to complete the turnaround with a dramatic stoppage-time winner. Despite missing a penalty earlier in the match, the Argentine captain refused to let the setback define his evening.

Instead, he played a decisive role in keeping the defending champion’s World Cup dream alive. The victory also sent Argentina into the quarterfinals, where it will continue its pursuit of consecutive World Cup titles.

The astonishing record that sets Messi apart

The comeback against Egypt also produced another piece of soccer history. According to Opta, 47% of every World Cup goal ever scored by a player aged 38 or older has now been scored by Lionel Messi. What’s more, every one of those goals has come during the 2026 World Cup.

Messi has now scored eight goals at the age of 38 during this tournament, accounting for eight of the 17 goals ever scored by players aged 38 or older in World Cup history. The statistic perfectly illustrates the extraordinary level the Argentine continues to reach long after most players have either retired or accepted significantly reduced roles.

Standing above World Cup legends

Goals from players aged 38 or older have historically been exceptionally rare.

For decades, Roger Milla stood as the symbol of longevity after scoring four memorable goals for the Cameroon national team during the 1990 World Cup. Other veteran players, like Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Pepe, added isolated goals across later editions, but the overall total remained remarkably low.

Messi’s extraordinary 2026 campaign has completely reshaped those historical numbers. His eight goals alone nearly equal the combined contributions produced by every other player in that age category throughout World Cup history, underlining just how unprecedented his tournament has become.

As the tournament heads into its decisive stages, the Manchester City striker has once again proven why he is regarded as one of soccer's most complete forwards.

Erling Haaland continues to find new ways to dominate the 2026 World Cup, and the Norway star has now added another remarkable achievement to his growing list of accomplishments. As the tournament heads into its decisive stages, the Manchester City striker has once again proven why he is regarded as one of soccer’s most complete forwards.

The Norway national team has enjoyed a memorable campaign, with Haaland leading the attack through a series of decisive performances. His latest accomplishment has sparked widespread admiration across the soccer world and strengthened his position among the favorites to finish as the tournament’s leading scorer.

The latest statistic, highlighted by OptaJoe, showcases just how versatile Haaland has been throughout the tournament. The Norwegian star is the only player at the 2026 World Cup to score with his left foot, right foot, header, from inside the penalty area, and from outside the box. The achievement demonstrates an extraordinary level of finishing ability that few players have displayed on soccer’s biggest stage.

Rather than relying on one signature finish, Haaland has shown he can punish defenders from virtually every situation imaginable. Whether attacking crosses, finishing from close range, or striking from distance, the Norwegian has found different ways to influence matches.

Norway’s star continues to lead historic World Cup run

The milestone arrives during what has already become a historic tournament for the Norway national team. Haaland’s goals have played a central role in helping his country reach the latter stages of the competition while exceeding many pre-tournament expectations.

His performances have included two goals against Iraq, two more against Senegal, another strike versus Ivory Coast, and perhaps his biggest display yet during the Round of 16 victory over Brazil.

Against the Brazil national team, Haaland produced one of the defining moments of the World Cup. He first equalized late in the match before scoring a dramatic winner in the closing minutes to seal a stunning 2-1 comeback victory that booked Norway’s place in the quarterfinals. That performance reinforced his reputation as a striker capable of deciding the biggest matches when his country needs him most.

Why the record is so difficult to achieve

Modern soccer has become increasingly specialized, with many forwards excelling in one particular area of attacking play. Some strikers dominate aerially, while others thrive inside the penalty area or depend heavily on their stronger foot. Haaland, however, has displayed excellence across every category.

Scoring with both feet, winning aerial duels, finishing from inside the box, and beating goalkeepers from long distance in a single World Cup requires exceptional technical quality, movement, positioning, athleticism, and confidence. The achievement underlines why opposition defenses continue to struggle against him. Removing one option simply opens another.

Powered by the lethal duo of Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, the squad is aiming to push past previous boundaries, leaving fans to eagerly compare their current run against Norway's all-time World Cup records and best historical finishes.

Storming back onto the global stage, Norway‘s new golden generation is ready to fight for their place in the history books. Powered by the lethal duo of Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, the squad is aiming to push past previous boundaries, leaving fans to eagerly compare their current run against Norway’s all-time World Cup records and best historical finishes.

Norway’s history at the World Cup has been short but memorable. The national team has qualified for the tournament only four times: 1938, 1994, 1998, and 2026.

The first appearance came in the 1938 World Cup in France. At that time, the tournament used a straight knockout format, and Norway faced eventual champions Italy in the opening round. The match finished 1-1 after normal time, but Italy eventually won 2-1 after extra time, ending Norway’s campaign immediately.

The 1994 World Cup in the United States brought one of the most unusual eliminations in tournament history. Norway defeated Mexico 1-0 but failed to reach the knockout stage because all four teams in their group finished level on points. The deciding factor was goals scored, leaving Norway painfully eliminated.

Four years later, Norway produced its most famous World Cup moment. During the 1998 tournament in France, the national team shocked defending champions Brazil with a dramatic 2-1 victory in the group stage. That result helped the country reach the knockout stage for the first time. However, the journey ended in the Round of 16 after a narrow 1-0 defeat against Italy.

Norway finally returns after 28-year wait

The 2026 World Cup marked Norway’s first appearance since 1998 and represented a major achievement for coach Stale Solbakken. After years of disappointment in qualifying campaigns, Solbakken finally built a team capable of competing at the highest level.

Norway dominated European qualifying extraordinarily. The national team won all eight qualifying matches, scored 37 goals, and conceded only five.

Statistic	Norway Men’s World Cup Record
Appearances	4 (1938, 1994, 1998, 2026)
Matches Played	13 (through the 2026 Round of 16)
Wins / Draws / Losses	6 Wins / 3 Draws / 4 Losses (through the 2026 Round of 16)
Goals For / Goals Against	19 Goals Scored / 17 Goals Conceded (through the 2026 Round of 16)
Maiden World Cup Goal	Arne Brustad (1938 vs. Italy)
Biggest World Cup Win	4-1 vs. Iraq (2026)

The attacking numbers have been historic, with Erling Haaland leading the way. The Manchester City striker scored 16 goals during qualifying, matching the record for most goals by a player in a World Cup qualifying campaign.

Norway’s best World Cup finish

Norway’s best World Cup result is now reaching the Quarter-finals in 2026. Before this historic run, the national team’s best finishes were reaching the Round of 16 in both 1938 and 1998, having never progressed beyond that stage until now.

In the 2026 World Cup, Norway shattered their previous ceiling by advancing to the Quarter-finals to face England, marking an unprecedented achievement after their long absence from the tournament.

Tournament	Group Stage Opponents	Record (W-D-L)	Final Result
1938 France	Italy (Round of 16)	0–0–1	Round of 16
1994 United States	Mexico, Republic of Ireland, Italy	1–1–1	Group Stage
1998 France	Morocco, Scotland, Brazil	1–2–1	Round of 16
2026 United States / Canada / Mexico	France, Iraq, Senegal	4–0–1	Quarter-finals (Ongoing)

Although the team entered the tournament with ambitions of making a deep run, reaching the knockout stage already represents a major step forward.

The national team’s journey has also produced a unique World Cup record. Norway remains one of the few teams to have faced Brazil multiple times without losing, earning victories and draws against one of soccer’s greatest powers.

As debate continues over the star forward's tournament and his post-match comments, supporters are now learning when the Milan star could realistically return to action following the injury that ended his World Cup.

Christian Pulisic‘s painful exit from the USMNT’s 2026 World Cup campaign has taken another significant turn, with fresh medical updates finally providing clarity after days of speculation. As debate continues over the star forward’s tournament and his post-match comments, supporters are now learning when the Milan star could realistically return to action following the injury that ended his World Cup.

The United States’ 4-1 Round of 16 defeat to Belgium not only ended the national team’s hopes on home soil, but also left its biggest star facing another spell on the sidelines. While criticism initially centered on Pulisic’s decision to leave the match and his comments afterward, subsequent medical evaluations painted a very different picture.

The injury occurred in the 52nd minute of the United States’ 4-1 defeat to Belgium, when Pulisic attempted a shot and accidentally struck Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans’ leg. Although he initially tried to continue, the pain eventually forced him off the field in the 59th minute.

According to The Athletic, subsequent examinations confirmed that Pulisic suffered a bone bruise along with a microfracture of both the tibia and fibula in his lower right leg. He was later seen using crutches, highlighting that the injury was considerably more serious than first believed.

Medical staff later confirmed the extent of the damage after scans, and Pulisic was subsequently seen using crutches at the team hotel. Had the USMNT progressed to face Spain in the quarterfinals, the forward would have been unavailable due to the injury.

Recovery timeline offers positive news for Milan

Despite the alarming diagnosis, the recovery outlook is considerably better than many initially feared.

According to The Athletic and Calciomercato, Pulisic is expected to miss three to six weeks rather than several months, with an anticipated return sometime in August. That timeline could allow him to resume training before AC Milan‘s Serie A opener against Torino on August 23, giving new manager Ruben Amorim reason for optimism ahead of the new campaign.

The injury means that the American will almost certainly miss the Rossoneri’s preseason friendlies, but those matches were already viewed as unlikely appearances following his involvement at the World Cup.

The timing is particularly important for Milan, where new head coach Ruben Amorim is reportedly planning to make Pulisic a central figure next season. After an inconsistent second half of the previous campaign, the American will hope to begin the new season fully fit.

Amorim expressed confidence in his player, saying: “I know he had some criticism after the World Cup elimination, but I am here to say we believe a lot in him, and have a clear plan to use all the qualities that he has. Pulisic is really important for us.”

Frustrating tournament for the USMNT star

The Belgium match marked the forward’s second injury setback of the tournament. He had already aggravated a calf problem during the opening victory over Paraguay, forcing him to miss the following match against Australia before returning later in the group stage.

The tournament itself proved disappointing from an individual perspective. Pulisic finished the competition without scoring a goal, although he did register an assist in the opening match against Paraguay.

After the elimination, the Milan attacker admitted his frustration with both the injury and his performances. “It’s just frustrating to end like that, of course, but now I have time to rest, so hopefully it’ll be OK,” Pulisic said.

Later, he added: “With one earlier and then another injury now, it just sucked. It was tough. It was difficult for me to deal with.” Despite his disappointment, the player praised his teammates for stepping up throughout the tournament: “But we have a great team. There’s so many guys that stepped up this tournament, that should be really the focus.”

Let's take a closer look at the knockout scenarios and explore how the ultimate victor will impact the rest of the 2026 World Cup bracket.

France and Morocco are colliding in a blockbuster 2026 World Cup quarterfinal clash at Boston Stadium, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. This decisive showdown in Boston guarantees that only one of these dynamic squads will secure a coveted ticket to the semifinals. Let’s take a closer look at the knockout scenarios and explore how the ultimate victor will impact the rest of the 2026 World Cup bracket.

Thursday’s clash at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, is a rematch of the unforgettable 2022 World Cup semifinal, where France ended Morocco’s historic run with a 2-0 victory. Four years later, both nations arrive with ambitions of writing another memorable chapter.

France enters the quarterfinal as one of the tournament favorites after another impressive campaign. Didier Deschamps’ squad has advanced through the competition with a series of convincing performances, although Paraguay pushed Les Bleus harder than any previous opponent during the Round of 16.

Morocco continues to prove that its remarkable run in Qatar was far from a one-time achievement. The Atlas Lions reached another World Cup quarterfinal after eliminating Canada and remain one of the tournament’s most disciplined and dangerous sides.

The fixture also carries emotional significance because several Moroccan internationals were born in France, while multiple French players share North African or Middle Eastern heritage. That unique connection gives this encounter an added layer beyond soccer.

France arrives with confidence, while Morocco hopes to create more history

France has scored freely throughout the tournament thanks to one of the deepest attacking units in international soccer. Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola, and Desire Doue have consistently troubled opposing defenses.

Mbappe has already found the net seven times during this World Cup and continues battling for another Golden Boot. France has also produced 14 goals while conceding only two, underlining why many consider Les Bleus the strongest remaining contender.

Date	France’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 16, 2026	Senegal	Group Stage	Win (3–1)
June 22, 2026	Iraq	Group Stage	Win (3–0)
June 26, 2026	Norway	Group Stage	Win (4–1)
June 30, 2026	Sweden	Round of 32	Win (3–0)
July 4, 2026	Paraguay	Round of 16	Win (1–0)

Morocco, meanwhile, has continued building on the momentum created during its groundbreaking 2022 World Cup campaign. Under head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, the Atlas Lions remain unbeaten in their last ten matches and have become one of Africa’s leading soccer powers.

The reigning Africa Cup of Nations champion has impressed with organization, patience, and technical quality. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Azzedine Ounahi, Brahim Diaz, and Yassine Bounou have given Morocco genuine belief that another upset is possible.

Date	Morocco’s Opponent	Stage	Result
June 13, 2026	Brazil	Group Stage	Draw (1–1)
June 19, 2026	Scotland	Group Stage	Win (1–0)
June 24, 2026	Haiti	Group Stage	Win (4–2)
June 29, 2026	Netherlands	Round of 32	Draw (1–1, won 3–2 on penalties)
July 4, 2026	Canada	Round of 16	Win (3–0)

What happens if France wins and Morocco loses?

If France wins, regardless of whether it comes in regulation, extra time or a penalty shootout, Les Bleus will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals.

France would then face the winner of Belgium vs Spain, keeping alive its pursuit of a third consecutive World Cup final appearance. Morocco’s remarkable tournament would come to an end before reaching another semifinal.

What happens if France and Morocco draw?

Although many supporters wonder what a draw would mean, a World Cup quarterfinal cannot finish level.

If the match is tied after 90 minutes, 30 minutes of extra time will be played. Should neither side find a winner, the semifinal place will be decided through a penalty shootout, ensuring one nation progresses while the other is eliminated.

What happens if Morocco wins and France loses?

A Moroccan triumph would represent one of the biggest upsets of the tournament. France would be eliminated, while Morocco would book another place in the World Cup semifinals, exacting revenge for the 2022 loss to Les Bleus.

Another semifinal appearance would also strengthen Morocco’s growing legacy on the global stage after its groundbreaking run in Qatar four years ago.

As the USMNT forward left Seattle following the team's Round of 16 defeat to Belgium, attention quickly turned to his physical condition and his emotional reaction after another painful exit from the tournament.

The United States’ 2026 World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak, and Christian Pulisic was once again at the center of the story. As the USMNT forward left Seattle following the team’s Round of 16 defeat to Belgium, attention quickly turned to his physical condition and his emotional reaction after another painful exit from the tournament.

Pulisic’s injury update and his biggest regret after the World Cup have now emerged, offering fresh insight into what the Milan star was feeling after the final whistle. His comments came after another difficult night for the USMNT, whose dream of a historic run on home soil ended with a heavy defeat.

Mauricio Pochettino and his players suffered a 4-1 loss to Belgium in Seattle, bringing an end to a tournament that had begun with genuine optimism. After impressive victories earlier in the competition, the national team struggled to reproduce its best football against one of Europe’s strongest sides.

Belgium built a commanding lead before Pulisic was forced off through injury in the second half. The defeat denied the United States a place in the World Cup quarterfinals and left players visibly devastated after the final whistle.

The result also extended a frustrating trend for the American national team, which has now fallen in the Round of 16 in several consecutive World Cup appearances despite entering tournaments with increasing expectations.

Pulisic offers injury update after Belgium clash

The biggest concern immediately after the match centered on Pulisic’s condition after he limped off in the 59th minute following a challenge involving Belgium midfielder Youri Tielemans.

According to ESPN, the American forward confirmed exactly what happened after the collision. “I just totally twisted my ankle and my knee in one play,” Pulisic explained. “I mean, whatever. I have time to rest. It’s just unfortunate way to finish.”

Mauricio Pochettino also addressed the situation after the match, explaining that the injury appeared to involve Pulisic’s ankle while expressing hope that the forward would recover in time for preseason with the Rossoneri.

The major regret Pulisic leaves the World Cup with

While discussing his injury, Pulisic admitted his biggest disappointment had little to do with the physical pain. Instead, he regretted not being able to produce the decisive moments he believed the United States needed against elite opposition.

Speaking after the defeat, the 27-year-old said: “I felt really good this summer with the guys and I thought my level was high. Yeah, it’s disappointing. I didn’t quite have the moments I was hoping to and to try to help us to really push and get over this next step of beating a really good team. I’m disappointed with myself, of course, but I’m going to try to stay positive. I did a lot of good things and the team did as well.”

Those remarks summed up the frustration surrounding his tournament. Pulisic finished the World Cup without scoring a goal, despite arriving as the nation’s biggest star and primary attacking threat.

Injuries disrupted Pulisic throughout the tournament

The Belgium match was not the first physical setback Pulisic experienced during the competition. He suffered a left calf injury in the opening match against Paraguay, forcing him to miss part of the group stage before returning later in the tournament. After nearly completing the Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, another injury struck during the biggest match of the campaign.

The latest setback involved both his ankle and knee, ending his evening early and preventing him from influencing the closing stages as Belgium secured qualification. Throughout the tournament, Pulisic was unable to complete a full 90 minutes in any of the United States’ five matches, limiting his overall impact during the competition.