Real Madrid & Barcelona News

Norway v England: World Cup 2026 quarter-final – live

⚽️ World Cup kick-off: 5pm EDT/10pm BST/7am AEST ⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Mail Scott You won’t need reminding that tonight’s game could go to extra time and penalty kicks. So if it indeed goes all the way, what on earth should Harry Kane do if he wins the toss? Mo Salah has the answer … England have four players walking the disciplinary tightrope this evening. Jude Bellingham was booked against DR Congo, while Marc Guehi, Nico O’Reilly and Declan Rice were all cautioned against Mexico. A yellow card for any of them tonight, and they’ll miss the semi-final should England get through. Norway have only one player on a yellow in winger Antonio Nusa. (Yellow cards were wiped at the start of the knockouts, and will be again after the quarters.) Continue reading...

Rudi Garcia faces Belgian backlash for taking Courtois off in World Cup loss to Spain

Replacement keeper Lammens made crucial error Garcia: ‘Only players who are 100% fit can play’ Rudi Garcia came under a barrage of fire for replacing his injured first-choice goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, in Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final defeat by Spain on Friday, adding to questions about the coach’s ⁠future. Courtois felt he could continue ⁠despite a twinge in ​his leg, but Garcia insisted that he came off as he was not 100% fit. Senne Lammens went on as his replacement after 71 minutes but spilt a low strike by Pau ⁠Cubarsí, allowing the Spain substitute Mikel Merino to pounce in the 86th minute and secure a 2-1 victory. Continue reading...

Xavi Espart to change position? Barcelona star talks playing pivot for Spain’s Under-19s

DENBIGH, WALES - JULY 04: Xavi Espart Font of Spain arrives at the stadium prior to the UEFA European Under-19 Championship 2026 match between Spain and Germany at Central Park on July 04, 2026 in Denbigh, Wales. (Photo by Harry Murphy - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) | UEFA via Getty Images Xavi Espart has been shining for Spain’s Under 19s this summer and has switched roles for his stint on international duty. The full-back has been playing in midfield and has been among the goals as Spain have booked their place in the final of the Under-19s Euros against Germany. Espart has been asked about his position switch and if Hansi Flick should be trying him in midfield next season for Barcelona. “Hansi will decide what needs to be done. Right now, the important thing is Saturday. We’ve fought hard to be here, and I’m fully focused on the final,” he told Marca. “At Barça I was able to make my debut as a full-back, and here I play as a defensive midfielder, which is where I played until I was a youth player. “I feel very comfortable in both positions, and I think that could be one of my strengths. Wherever they put me, I’ll give 100%.” Flick has previously compared Espart to Germany legend Philipp Lahm and he will certainly be one to watch next season at Barcelona.

Survey results: Who will win World Cup 2026 and will Lionel Messi claim the Golden Ball?

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 07: (EDITORS NOTE: Image has been digitally enhanced.) Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates after the 3-2 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Patrick Smith - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Ahead of the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026, we asked you for your predictions regarding who will win World Cup 2026 and which player will take home the Golden Ball, as part of the latest edition of SB Nation Reacts. France, Spain, Argentina and England are the four seeded teams in the competition but it’s the defending champions who came out top in the vote ahead of their quarter-final tie with Switzerland on Sunday. Argentina scooped 46% of the vote to finish top of the pile and ahead of France and Spain. Our second question related to the Golden Ball – the trophy given to the tournament’s best player – and perhaps unsurprisingly it’s Lionel Messi who wins our poll. The 39-year-old has been in inspirational form once again for Argentina, scoring eight goals in five games, and takes the No. 1 spot ahead of Kylian Mbappe. Once again a big thank you to everyone who took the time to take part in our survey. There may be more to follow in the future. This poll and the graphics are sponsored by Fanduel.

OPEN THREAD | JULY 11, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho LOOKS LIKE SPAIN Somehow spain got past belgium but now they have france to beat. NORWAY V ENGLAND Norway have the tendency top shock. so we’ll see ARGENTINA’S DAYS ARE NUMBERED

How Jude Bellingham is defining England’s World Cup run so far

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - JULY 05: Jude Bellingham #10 of England celebrates after the team's victory and progression to the Quarter-Final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after the Round of 16 match between Mexico and England at Mexico City Stadium on July 05, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images) | The FA via Getty Images There has been so much strange dialogue surrounding England during this World Cup run that it’s hard to make sense of it all. Media debates about Jude Bellingham’s presence in the team took unnecessary attention just before the campaign started. They complained about his attitude and his fit within the team. But one of the most refreshing things about this tournament has been Bellingham himself, and the way he’s done all of his talking on the pitch — putting to bed any nonsensical noise about whether or not he should start as part of Thomas Tuchel’s blueprint. England head into the quarter-finals against Norway on the back of the game of the tournament — a thrilling 3-2 win against Mexico at the Azteca — overcoming the conditions and atmosphere. If England are to win the World Cup, that’s the game they will look back on. More than a tactical test, it was a physical and mental battle. The degree of difficulty of that game should not be understated — prior to the England game, Mexico hadn’t lost at the Azteca since 2013, and had conceded just nine goals since that loss 13 years ago. England needed a leader, and that leader emerged in Bellingham. He dribbled out of ravenous pressure, won challenges in midfield, had a goal-saving block just before half-time, and, oh, there’s a couple more key points: he scored England’s first two goals within a two-minute block, and, to close the game, he helped a 10-man England survive the onslaught of Mexican attacks. By the end of the 90, Bellingham had the most touches of any player on his team as well as the most dribbles and shots. He also had three tackles, four clearances, and was masterful in his ball carrying. As a little cherry on top, he also won the Man of the Match award — his third of the tournament. Any conversation about Bellingham’s place in any scheme should be preemptively ignored and annulled. It doesn’t make any sense for a variety of reasons: Bellingham is probably the most complete and versatile player in the world, and his array of specialties makes him a tactical fit in any system. He can defend like a defensive midfielder, attack like a 10, drop in as a central midfielder, attack the box like a striker, and create from the wings. Conversations about whether or not a player can fit within a team should be reserved for limited players that are defined into one singular role — not unicorns like Bellingham that have a deep bag of tools. He is elite at several things. The Bellingham question is very easy to answer. ‘Does he fit’ is rhetorical. A more complicated question would be: ‘Should Trent Alexander-Arnold have been called up?’ With England’s current situation, it’s hard to answer ‘no’ to that question. Reece James is elite when healthy and played under Tuchel at Chelsea, but he’s already out and Tuchel also knew that it was a risk relying on James to be stay injury-free. When James’s backup, Tino Livramento, went down injured before the tournament started, Tuchel had the opportunity to call up Trent as an emergency reinforcement, but opted not to, going for a Trevoh Chalobah, who is primarily a center-back, instead. Now Tuchel faces a crisis: James is out, Jarell Quansah, who played right-back against Mexico, is suspended, and Djed Spence is not 100% either. The most likely scenario here is that Dan Burn comes into the team. It’s hard to see the justification for leaving Trent home. Tuchel’s reasoning will be that he wants wing-backs who can defend, and Trent clearly does not fit that profile. But it’s still hard to rationalize. Trent, when healthy, was very good for Real Madrid this season, and his long range passing and runs down the right unlocked a lot of good offensive sequences for Real Madrid. Not having him in the squad as an option, especially given the health of James as well as the injury to Livramento, could come back to haunt Tuchel now. But England will have enough talent still to get past Norway, who are a difficult matchup. One of the keys will be to make sure Bellingham doesn’t pick up a yellow card, which could see him miss the semi-final against (probably) Argentina.

Spain boss explains why he dropped Pedri for World Cup quarter-final vs Belgium

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Pedri Gonzalez of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Spain and Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on July 10, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Europa Press Sports/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has explained why he dropped Barcelona midfielder Pedri to the bench for Friday’s World Cup quarter-final against Belgium. Pedri was a surprise absentee from the starting XI for the match, with PSG star Fabian Ruiz getting the nod instead for the key match. De la Fuente was quizzed on his team selection after the game and offered up the following response. “It’s unfair that Mikel Merino isn’t playing, but it would be equally unfair if someone else were left out. Only eleven can play, and they understand that role, the part they have to play at any given moment. “When they come on, they know what they have to do, which is why it’s a pleasure to be their coach. Fabián is training very well, as is Pedri, but any of them could play. “We were looking to give the team a different feel; Fabián has more control of the game, he’s different from Pedri. We understood that’s what we needed: more attacking threat, while Pedri is left out for the final stages with his freshness and vision.” Ruiz did go on to score the opening goal in the match which ended in a 2-1 victory for Spain and set up a semi-final tie against France.

‘They should be afraid’ – Lamine Yamal sends message to France ahead of Spain clash

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain looks on before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Spain and Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on July 10, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona star Lamine Yamal says France should be afraid of Spain after La Roja booked a semi-final date with Les Bleus at World Cup 2026. A late winner from Mikel Merino completed a 2-1 win for Spain over Belgium and set up a mouth-watering semi final against Kylian Mbappe and Co. France have looked almost unstoppable so far at the tournament but Yamal says they should fear Spain. “We’re very happy to be in the semis. Very pleased with the qualification. We’ve been far superior,” he said after beating Belgium. “All the other teams are behind us. We came here to win, and that’s all that matters. “They should be afraid of us; we’ve beaten them twice. We’re not afraid of them. I think we’re the two best teams.” Spain face France on Tuesday at World Cup 2026 in Dallas. Who will win? Share your predictions in the comments below!

Marc Cucurella’s Spain book semi-final spot with late win over Belgium

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Marc Cucurella #24 of Spain is congratulated by Thibaut Courtois #1 of Belgium after the 2-1 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Spain and Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on July 10, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain have booked their ticket to the semi-final of the 2026 World Cup courtesy of an 88th minute goal from Mikel Merino in a game marred for Madridistas by an apparent injury to Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Marc Cucurella continued at left-back and remains one of only two outfield players to have played every minute of the tournament so far for Luis de la Fuente’s side. He had the challenging task of stopping in-form Arsenal winger Leandro Tossard but was effective, with two possession recoveries and one duel won, but was largely untroubled by a Belgium side with few chances. Spain took the lead in the first half as Fabian Ruiz scored on the 30 minute mark, but Charles de Ketelaere equalised on the stroke of half-time courtesy of a cross down Cucurella’s flank from Timothy Castagne with the leveller coming against the run of play. La Roja had the better chances, with 2.10 xG compared to 0.37 xG for Belgium, but failed to convert until Merino appeared at the death to give Spain a dramatic late winner as he reacted fastest to a spill from Senne Lammens, who replaced Courtois after he went off with a thigh problem. The result means Spain remain unbeaten and with five consecutive wins after the disappointment of a 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in their opening group stage fixture. Spain will now take on France on Tuesday in Dallas, with the victor set to face either England, Norway, Argentina or Switzerland in a potential final on July 19th in New Jersey.

Merino puts Spain into World Cup semi-finals as Belgium rue costly Courtois injury

Mikel Merino’s amazing moment arrived once more, an entire country circling the corner flag with him as football, which somehow always finds a way, provided another absurdly tall tale. The man who came on to score the late, late goals that took Spain into a European championship semi-final two years ago and a World Cup quarter-final four days ago, only went and did it again. And this time it was even better, his two-month old son Marco, who he has hardly seen, in attendance here. “As he wasn’t there for the quarter-finals, I had to do it in the semi-final too so he could experience it as well,” Merino said. It is some experience, some hat-trick, some story. What Merino did doesn’t make any sense. For this to happen once is dramatic enough, for it to happen twice messes with your mind, for it to happen a third blows it to bits; what is this sorcery? It was 1-1, the seconds were slipping from them and Spain were desperately seeking a way through when he was introduced as a sub again. Continue reading...

Spain vs Belgium, World Cup 2026: Late Mikel Merino strike sends La Roja into semi-finals

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Mikel Merino #6 of Spain celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Spain and Belgium at Los Angeles Stadium on July 10, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain left it late once again at World Cup 2026 but are through to the semi-finals after beating Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles. Super sub Mikel Merino was the hero yet again for La Roja with an 88th minute winner to keep Luis de la Fuente’s side in the hunt for glory. The Spain boss raised a few eyebrows with his team selection, dropping Pedri to the bench and starting Fabian Ruiz in the Barcelona midfielder’s place. It looked to be an inspired choice by the Spain boss as Ruiz put Spain in front on the half hour mark. Pedro Porro played a one-two with Lamine Yamal and raced down the right, sending in a cross for Dani Olmo. The Barcelona star’s shot was saved by Thibaut Courtois but Ruiz was quickest to react and slotted home his first ever World Cup goal on the rebound. Yamal then went close with a free-kick that curled around the wall but was pushed clear by a diving Courtois and then had sight of goal again five minutes before half-time. The teenager jinked past his defender and let fly with a shot that flew just wide of the near post. The action then switched to the other end and Spain conceded for the first time at World Cup 2026. Kevin De Bruyne crossed in from the right and Charles De Ketelaere stooped to head past Unai Simon for 1-1. The start of the second half saw Belgium have a good chance through Maxim De Cuyper before De la Fuente threw on Pedri and Ferran Torres. Belgium responded by sending on Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel and Joaquin Seys. The action started to ramp up with Yamal having chances and Ferran heading over the bar. The drama continued as Courtois was forced off with an injury and left the game in tears to be replaced by Senne Lammens. Both sides had sights of goal but it was another substitute – Mikel Merino – who won it late on. Cubarsi’s shot from range was only parried by Lammens, and Merino was on hand to smash it home from close range to send Spain into the semi-finals and a date with France.

Kylian Mbappé embraces leadership role for France to urge team humility

Didier Deschamps’ decision to give the inspirational forward the captaincy has paid off with no complacency on their run to the semi-finals The driving force behind France’s semi-final win over Morocco in 2022, Antoine Griezmann, was watching on from the stands this time as Les Bleus powered past the Atlas Lions to reach a third consecutive World Cup semi-final. The 35-year-old, who recently completed a move to Orlando City, had not attended a France match since his international retirement in 2024 following a brief stint as vice-captain. Continue reading...

Spain v Belgium: World Cup 2026 quarter-final – live

⚽ Kick-off time: 12pm local/3pm EDT/8pm BST/5am AEST ⚽ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Email Billy Spain make one change to the team that beat Portugal, with Fabián Ruiz coming in for Pedri in midfield. Kevin De Bruyne returns to the XI for Belgium after watching the win over the USA from the bench – he replaces Amadou Onana, who ruptured his ACL in that match. Jérémy Doku is also back in from the start in place of Dodi Lukébakio. Spain (4-2-3-1): Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal. Subs: Raya, J García, Pubill, Grimaldo, E García, Llorente, Merino, Torres, Gavi, Pino, Williams, Zubimendi, Muñoz, Iglesias, Pedri. Continue reading...

Spain vs Belgium, World Cup 2026: Match Thread, Live Updates

Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images WELCOME TO SoFi STADIUM!!! The spectacular home of the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams and Chargers is the site of a huge World Cup 2026 quarter-final clash between Spain and Belgium as Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Co. face another tough European test as they look for a place in the semi-finals against France. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos! LINEUPS SPAIN Starting XI: Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabián; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Raya (GK), Joan (GK), Pubill, Grimaldo, Eric, Llorente, Merino, Gavi, Zubimendi, Pedri, Ferran, Pino, Williams, Iglesias, Muñoz BELGIUM Starting XI: Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Raskin, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; De Ketelaere (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Lammens (GK), Penders (GK), Theate, Meunier, De Winter, Seys, Witsel, Moreira, Vanaken, Saelemaekers, Lukaku, Lukebakio, Fernández-Pardo MATCH INFO Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Quarter-Finals Date/Time: Friday, July 10, 2026, 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12.30am IST (India, Saturday) Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, United States Referee: Michael Oliver (ENG) HOW TO WATCH On TV: FOX (USA), BBC One (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others Online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Matchday Thread Rules We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads: Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another. Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

The Managing Madrid World Cup 2026 Predictions Survey (Part III)

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 04: Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates the team's 1-0 victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) | Getty Images The 2026 World Cup is down to its final eight teams, and while many Real Madrid players have already seen their campaigns come to an end, five representatives remain with their sights set on lifting the trophy. Now it’s your turn to decide who you think has the best chance of finishing the tournament as a World Cup winner. France are represented by Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni, England still have Jude Bellingham, Morocco are led by Brahim Díaz, Belgium have Thibaut Courtois, and Spain’s Marc Cucurella rounds out the list of players with Real Madrid ties still alive in the competition. Each faces a different path to the final, but only one of them can end the tournament as a world champion. Cast your vote in the poll below and let us know your reasoning in the comments. We’ll reveal the results once voting closes to see which remaining Madridista the Managing Madrid community is backing to go all the way. Please take our survey

Luis de la Fuente: Lamine Yamal must be motivated, not anxious

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has revealed some finer points about his star player’s psyche. Speaking ahead of the quarter-final against Belgium in the FIFA World Cup, De la Fuente shared his insight into FC Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal. De la Fuente praised the young star’s motivation, but warned that it was a fine line for the forward to walk. “If you see the motivation Lamine has, he is very dangerous for opponents, but we need to calm him down so that motivation doesn’t turn into anxiety.” he said. The World Cup has been called the “World Cup of stars” as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland have banged in the goals for their respective countries. Yamal hasn’t joined the party yet, though he did score in his first start. “The best is yet to come, because he hasn’t yet reached the level of brilliance we expect. The other day, he showed tremendous maturity, working hard in defense until he was completely exhausted,” the manager said. Yamal was injured while playing for his club towards the end of the season, an injury that made him arrive at the World Cup without much sharpness. He couldn’t start the first game and is still settling in. Despite that, Spain have rolled on in the competition, in large part because they have yet to concede a single goal. “We have always been a very solid defensive team, and at the same time, we are the side with the most shots on target in the tournament. We frequently get into the opposition’s box while conceding very few chances. That speaks to a very serious and well-organized team,” De la Fuente said.

‘The best is yet to come’ – Spain boss sends Lamine Yamal warning ahead of Belgium clash

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente says the best is yet to come from Barcelona star Lamine Yamal at World Cup 2026 ahead of their quarter-final tie with Belgium. Yamal returned from injury at the beginning of the tournament and scored on his first start for La Roja against Saudi Arabia. The teenager hasn’t found the back of the net since but has remained influential, and De la Fuente says he is raring to go ahead of the game in Los Angeles later. “If you look at Lamine’s situation, I think he’s a very dangerous player for opponents today because he’s very eager and motivated. But what we’re trying to do is calm that down so it doesn’t turn into anxiety, and that’s not positive. We want him to be motivated, with enormous desire, and he is,” he told reporters. “We know that the best Lamine, the offensive one, the most flashy and highly valued, is yet to come. Because he hasn’t yet made that leap to the level of brilliance we’re used to seeing from him. He will, for sure.” Yamal and Spain are favorites heading into the match and know victory will set up a semi-final clash with France following their victory over Morocco.

Haaland and Bellingham: Dortmund friends taking centre stage in Norway v England battle

The attacking players spent two years together at BVB, forming a friendship on their way to the very top This World Cup has been about the biggest names from the beginning but as Miami welcomes back its new favourite sporting pleasure on Saturday night, the man in with a shout of the Ballon d’Or probably won’t be the headline. With apologies to Harry Kane, in a football world moving past its two-decades-long domination by the Lionel Messi/Cristiano Ronaldo duopoly, a pair of younger world-class stars will be drawing the majority of the glare as England take on Norway. Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland have met regularly in the Champions League for Real Madrid and Manchester City over the past three years, but this is different. Their first encounter at international level is news in the front pages of the tabloids and gossip mags alike, Hello! running a feature entitled “Inside Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland’s unlikely friendship before fierce Fifa showdown” before Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final in Florida. If Bellingham and Haaland were the game’s next superstar rivalry in the years to come (again, with apologies to Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal) they would define the competition in starkly different parameters to their Argentinian and Portuguese predecessors. Continue reading...

‘That’s how you try to stop him’ – Thibaut Courtois offers Belgium advice on Lamine Yamal

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) | Getty Images Belgium and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has offered his team-mates some advice ahead of their World Cup quarter-final tie against Spain and Lamine Yamal. The two teams will meet on Friday night and battle for a place in the last four of the tournament. Yamal will once again be tasked with providing attacking inspiration for Spain, and Courtois says his team will need to double up on the Barcelona star. “Lamine is Lamine; we know he’s very talented in one-on-one situations,” he told reporters. He’s very quick and very agile. He can dribble two players and then he also plays through balls. “I think ultimately it’s about marking him very closely, and when we can create a two-on-one situation, I think that’s how you try to stop him, but he’s a star, he’s a great player and it really is difficult to stop him.” Yamal spoke before the tournament about how he’s getting used to being marked by two or three players at a time, saying that he eventually expects to move into a more central role as “the only place where three players can’t mark you is in the middle.”

Spain vs Belgium, World Cup 2026: Team News, Match Preview

Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images Spain vs Belgium Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Quarter-Finals Spain Outs & Doubts: Yeremi Pino, Nico Williams, Victor Muñoz (doubt) Belgium Outs & Doubts: Zeno Debast, Amadou Onana (out) Date/Time: Friday, July 10, 2026, 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12.30am IST (India, Saturday) Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, United States Referee: Michael Oliver (ENG) How to watch on TV: FOX (USA), BBC One (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others How to watch online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Following a hard-fought victory over Iberian rivals Portugal on Monday, Spain return to action for a huge World Cup quarter-final clash against Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday afternoon. La Roja come into this one looking to reach the semi-finals and meet Kylian Mbappé’s France in what could be one of the most epic Final Four matches in World Cup history, but they first need to get past a Belgium side that somehow, someway reached the quarter-final stage despite an incredibly inconsistent tournament. After two draws in the first two games against Iran and Egypt that required a big win in the group finale to advance to the knockouts, the Belgians were all but eliminated against Senegal before a remarkable comeback in the final 10 minutes of regulation completed by a 125th minute winner in extra-time to secure a spot in the next round. Belgium then faced the United States and all of the controversy that surrounded the game in the Round of 16, and showed remarkable poise and mental strength to not only win but dominate the hosts and move on to the quarter-finals. The remarkable comeback against Senegal and the dominant win over the USA had one thing in common: Kevin De Bruyne was not on the pitch. His World Cup has been very poor so far, and the team has looked more compact and athletic without its best playmaker who is clearly not fully fit after an injury-riddled season at club level. It’s very hard to think De Bruyne won’t be involved against Spain, however, which makes it impossible to know which version of Belgium will show up in Los Angeles. If it’s the one that destroyed the US, then Spain must be ready for a very tough battle. If it’s the one that struggled mightily with De Bruyne on the pitch, this could be much easier for La Roja. This is a fascinating clash, one that Spain will be favorites to win as the world awaits a spectacle against France. But Belgium are too talented to be taken for granted, and this should be a fun one in Hollywood. Let’s dance. (Be careful, Lamine.) POSSIBLE LINEUPS Spain (4-2-3-1): Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal Belgium (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; De Ketelaere PREDICTION Belgium have been at their best without De Bruyne, but there’s no way he won’t be on the pitch on Friday. It’s hard to predict which Belgium will show up, but I’m betting on Spain anyway: 2-1 to La Roja.

What's going on with penalties - is it time to end the stutter?

Kylian Mbappe's penalty miss in France's win against Morocco is the latest example of a player missing a penalty after stuttering in the run-up.

Mbappe magic sees off Morocco as France skipper shrugs off penalty miss

Kylian Mbappe shrugged off a missed penalty to star as France beat Morocco 2-0 in Boston to clinch their spot in the semi-finals of the World Cup.

France into semi-finals after comfortable win over Morocco

Kylian Mbappe scores his eighth goal of this World Cup to make up for an earlier penalty miss with Ousmane Dembele adding a second as France prove too good for Morocco and move into the semi-finals.

Managing Madrid Podcast: REACTION: Mbappe, France Eliminate Morocco

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani reacts to France beating Morocco 2 – 0 in the World Cup quarter finals, including: – The penalty call – The eternal VAR review – Kylian Mbappe’s penalty + his inevitable golazo – A reflection on Morocco’s run, specifically Bonou, Brahim, and Bouaddi – And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Mbappé stunner ends Morocco resistance to send France into World Cup semi-finals

There is a relentlessness to this France that might make them irresistible. Morocco no doubt had the best of intentions, ideas of how they could hurt the side that had beaten them in the semi-final in Qatar, but France press so well that they soon accepted they had no option but to retreat and endure. France have such attacking quality that simply surviving isn’t really a viable option. Kylian Mbappé, once again, was the key figure, missing a penalty, scoring a stunning opener and then teeing up Ousmane Dembélé for the second. He went off with 13 minutes remaining to a deserved ovation: the game had seemed to be drifting, and there had just been a sense that Morocco might conceivably pull off an implausible rearguard action, when he produced a goal from nowhere. Continue reading...

Mbappe penalty SAVED with Morocco holding on vs France LIVE!

Gavi dreams of scoring a bicycle kick in the World Cup final for Spain vs Lionel Messi’s Argentina

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES - JULY 2: Gavi of Spain during the World Cup match between Spain v Austria at the Los Angeles Stadium on July 2, 2026 in Los Angeles United States (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Gavi has revealed he’s always dreamed of scoring the winner in the World Cup final with a bicycle kick. Gavi is currently preparing for a quarter-final tie with Belgium and spoke about how he’d love to face Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the final. “Of course I hope to be important in the World Cup. I dream of scoring the title-winning goal. I’ve always dreamed of scoring a bicycle kick in the World Cup final,” he told reporters. “They’re dreams, and I hope they come true. The opponent? I’d like Argentina because of Leo Messi, but as long as we reach the final, it doesn’t matter who it is.” Gavi started Spain’s opening game of the World Cup but has only featured once since as a substitute. He admits he wants to play more but that the team comes first. “I came here to win the World Cup. The manager knows me better than anyone. We all want to play more, but what really matters is winning the World Cup. He knows he can count on me for anything he needs,” he added. “I don’t like to talk about that. Belgium has magnificent players, as does Portugal. We have to do our job very well. If we do, things will surely turn out well. The important thing is to beat Belgium. France or Morocco? They are two great teams, but I would say Morocco, because they eliminated us in Qatar.” Spain take on Belgium on Friday and know a victory will see them progress to a semi-final against France or Morocco.

Bellingham unlocked? How Tuchel has helped him find a new level

England's strength lies in the collective according to Thomas Tuchel. "If any team has heart and belief, then it's this team," he said after the victory over Mexico. But Jude Bellingham, together with Harry Kane, is showing the value of star quality too.

Flick Drives Barcelona’s Move for Adeyemi as Raphinha Questions Linger

Hansi Flick is the driving force as Barcelona make an official approach for Dortmund winger Karim Adeyemi, with the player already backing the move. The post Flick Drives Barcelona’s Move for Adeyemi as Raphinha Questions Linger appeared first on Football España.

Pedri: Spain are favorites for the World Cup

PUEBLA, MEXICO - JUNE 08: Pedri of Spain celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the international friendly match between Peru and Spain at Estadio Cuauhtémoc on June 08, 2026 in Puebla, Mexico. (Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images) | Getty Images FC Barcelona midfielder Pedri has not shied away from the “favorites” tag as Spain advance into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. In a new interview, Pedri wasn’t shy: “We said from the start that we came here to win it. We were tagged as favorites, and we had no problem accepting that. We are well aware that we are playing very well, but from now on, nothing is going to be handed to us.” Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in the round of 16 and are due to play Belgium next. Pedri said that the Spanish team has “shown” that they can be considered favorites. “We haven’t conceded a goal yet, and we are a very reliable team. We all work for the team, no one stops running, and that makes us a big family. We have to keep it up,” he said. Belgium are fresh from handing a beating to the United States, who had made some noise – at least for local media – as a potential dark horse candidate playing at home. The Red Devils made a mockery of such a prediction, swatting away the US like they were mere minnows. “Belgium has very good players, and Thibaut Courtois is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. It is always difficult to score against him, but we also have players who have already scored against him in La Liga, so we know him well,” the midfielder said. Pedri did not shy away from a potential final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina either, saying he would gladly take part in such a game – but only because that would mean that Spain were in the final. “But first, we have to focus solely on Belgium and not get overconfident,” he said.

Who will win World Cup 2026 and will Lionel Messi claim the Golden Ball?

Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi has tears in his eyes as celebrates winning the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta on July 7, 2026. (Photo by Odd ANDERSEN / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images World Cup 2026 has hit the quarter-final stage with just eight teams left in the competition in the USA, Mexico and Canada. France, Morocco, Spain, Belgium, Norway, England, Argentina and Switzerland are the teams still eyeing glory this summer and hoping to lift the famous trophy on July 19th. As part of the latest edition of SB Nation Reacts we want to hear from you and who you think will be crowned world champions now we’re close to the end of the competition. We also want to hear which player you think will win the Golden Ball. Lionel Messi is among the favorites as he tops the scoring charts but big names such as Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are also in the running. So vote in the poll below and feel free share any thoughts in the comments. Welcome to SB Nation Reacts. Be on the lookout for results from the survey soon! Please take our survey

Superstars are shining brightest as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland light up World Cup 2026

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 07: Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring a goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 7, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Wu Zhizhao/VCG via Getty Images) | VCG via Getty Images Football’s greatest superstars have taken center stage at World Cup 2026, with the biggest names in the game stepping up to the plate and showing exactly why they are the very best in the business. The race for the Golden Boot – awarded to the World Cup’s top scorer – currently reads like a Who’s Who of the world’s best players. Lionel Messi leads the way from Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. Current Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele can only manage fourth place on the list. The biggest name of all, Messi, may have celebrated his 39th birthday during the tournament but is proving once again that age is very much still a number. Messi started off with a hat-trick in Argentina’s opener against Algeria and has gone on to bang in five more goals for the defending champions. He’s also managed to miss two penalties along the way, proving that he is human after all. The Inter Miami star has already won everything the game has to offer but continues to demonstrate his other-worldly talent on the biggest stage of all. Just behind Messi at the top of the scoring charts is Kylian Mbappe. The Real Madrid superstar is part of a star-studded French squad but looks in the mood to avenge 2022’s final defeat to Argentina. Mbappe has been lethal in front of goal and still popped up with two assists in the one game where he didn’t manage to find the back of the net. And don’t forget Norway goal machine Erling Haaland. The striker also has seven goals on his World Cup debut, continuing the monstrous form he’s shown in the Premier League with Manchester City to set up an epic quarter-final tie with England. The Three Lions will be led by inspirational duo Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham who sent Thomas Tuchel’s side past Mexico in an epic encounter. Kane has six goals in the tournament so far to remain in the hunt for the second World Cup Golden Boot of his career but Bellingham is just as vital to England’s hopes. Elsewhere, there is plenty of other talent rising to the very top of the game. Michael Olise has followed up a stellar season with Bayern Munich by becoming France’s chief creator. Olise tops the assists charts and is the first player to hit five at a World Cup since 1994. Lamine Yamal is also into the quarter-finals with Spain and eyeing a first World Cup title at the tender age of 18. The Barcelona superstar returned from injury at the start tournament, scoring 11 minutes into his first ever World Cup start and helping send Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal packing in the last 16 last time out. World Cup finals are often characterised by unlikely heroes and 2026 has seen its fair share, with debutants Cape Verde capturing the imagination with a heroic performance that ultimately ended in a heartbreaking defeat to Argentina in the last 32. Yet as we head towards the business end of the tournament, it’s the giants of the game who remain in contention, primed for glory and aiming to cement their legacies by picking the ultimate prize in world football.

The Neymar Era has come to a sad and predictable end

Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images When Neymar Jr. entered the field as a substitute in the 67th minute of Brazil’s World Cup Round of 16 clash with Norway, the expectation from his country was the same as it’s been for the last decade and a half: the savior had arrived. The burden of being Brazil’s next legend has always been on the shoulders of a player who is undoubtedly one of the best and most talented of his generation, but his fourth and final World Cup appearance ended in a sad and predictable way. Neymar clearly wasn’t fit enough to be on the pitch in a do-or-die knockout match, and Brazil’s entire structure fell apart the moment he came on. Norway went on to dominate the rest of the game, Erling Haaland scored two brilliant goals, and Brazil experienced the earliest knockout exit in their storied World Cup history. But Neymar still had a chance to experience what he’s always craved: the spotlight. He scored a penalty after deciding to trade insults with the Norwegian goalkeeper, and continued to taunt him after scoring despite his country needing him to just take the ball back to the center circle for one last chance. That was the perfect example of what Neymar’s career would become since the biggest and most consequential decision of his career: when he chose to leave Barcelona in 2017 to join Paris Saint-Germain, he wanted the spotlight for himself and himself only. The spotlight came before any team success because individual glory was always the main goal. Being the headline, good or bad, always came first. Dazzling the world with his unending talent seemed to be the priority, even if it meant sacrificing what was good for the other 10 wearing the same uniform. Barcelona fans had the pleasure of witnessing his very best, which is why they were willing to forgive his ugly departure and always wish for his return whenever he flirted with a comeback to Camp Nou. But PSG and Brazil fans got to see his worst: the version that didn’t pay football back for giving him gifts that almost no one else had. A major knee injury in 2023 took away what remained of his athleticism and effectively ended Neymar’s career as a top-level player, and his entire goal from that moment on was to be fit enough for one last World Cup. He came back to his home in Santos, and was hoping to see the country embrace him and once again build him up as that savior. Part of the country did embrace him and thought of him as a savior. Another (very big) part saw the reality: Neymar was done as a high-level player, and his presence in the World Cup squad was nothing but a marketing ploy and a distraction. Not even the legendary Carlo Ancelotti could resist the immense pressure created by big figures in Brazilian media and even politics, and Neymar was named in the 26-man squad. His inclusion was sold as a reward for his previous legacy built with the national team, and his role would be that of a veteran leader and nothing more. But when push came to shove, in the biggest game yet, the predictable happened: Neymar came on to play the part of savior, but he was clearly not even close to ready for it. His presence destabilized the team, and he still found a way to chase the spotlight for himself even in defeat. For those lucky enough to have seen Neymar at his very best, watching his exit from the world stage is sad because a player of his talent deserved to win more, both at club and country level. For those unlucky enough to witness his worst, the end was exactly as ugly and depressing as expected.

No league tables, no trophies: how Norway made sport fun for kids – and built a football team that beat Brazil

Country’s model prioritises joy while offering choice – and Erling Haaland’s World Cup exploits show that it works At full time, the arithmetic felt wrong. A team from a country of 5.5 million people, back at a World Cup after 28 years away, had just beaten the five-time champions to reach a first quarter-final. During Norway’s victory over Brazil on Sunday there was little between the fast feet of Vinícius Júnior and the raw power of Erling Haaland. But look at how that pair and others on the two teams were raised and a different story emerges. Neymar, Matheus Cunha and Vinícius grew up in a system that prioritises prodigies – spotting talent early and fast-tracking it through academies built around a single sport. Haaland, Martin Ødegaard and Antonio Nusa grew up inside something altogether different. Continue reading...

Quietly confident Pau Cubarsi is the best of the Barcelona bunch for Spain at World Cup 2026

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Pau Cubarsi #22 of Spain controls the ball against Nuno Mendes #25 of Portugal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Hannah Peters - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Now we’re really getting down to the nitty-gritty at the World Cup. With just eight teams left and the tension rising all the time. These are the games when tournaments are won and lost. When the going gets tough, the tough get going and all that. So far, with the possible exception of Germany going out of the tournament, there haven’t really been too many shocks to mull over. Norway beating Brazil shouldn’t really have surprised anyone because the current Selecao crop is nowhere close to being World Cup-winning material. One of the teams that certainly are in the mix to win the tournament is Spain. La Roja had been on an amazing unbeaten run prior to beginning their World Cup against Cape Verde – a game that almost certainly gave them a timely wake-up call. Since that opener, they’ve dispatched Saudi Arabia (4-0), Uruguay (1-0), Austria (3-0) and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal 1-0, earning a vast amount of plaudits along the way for the manner in which they continue to play the game. It remains very pleasing on the eye, but certain performances still remain largely under the radar. For example, in order for La Roja to have got to this stage without conceding a single goal, the back four, and particularly the centre of defence, need to be absolutely spot on in each and every game. Pau Cubarsi, just 19 years of age and playing at his first-ever World Cup, has been virtually peerless. Barcelona supporters have long known the class of the centre-back, who has continued to excel since being given his wings in the first team. What’s particularly pleasing about the youngster is his maturity and ability to take every game, no matter the importance, in his stride. That’s incredibly unusual for all but those players that could be regarded as truly elite and world-class, and yet nothing seems to faze Cubarsi. His performances are almost always at the highest level, though only occasionally universally acknowledged as such. During the World Cup, his positioning, tackling accuracy, speed of thought and actual speed have been one of the standout features of some fine all-round contributions. Whilst Mikel Oyarzabal or Lamine Yamal might be hogging the headlines, Cubarsi certainly deserves to have his own name in lights – particularly if Spain do go on to add the trophy to the European Championship won two years ago.

‘What a player’ – Rivaldo goes crazy for Lionel Messi after Argentina’s comeback win

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 07: Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina reacts after his penalty kick is saved by Mostafa Shoubir #23 of Egypt during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt at Atlanta Stadium on July 07, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona legend Rivaldo could not hide his admiration for Lionel Messi after the GOAT helped fire Argentina into the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026. Lionel Scaloni’s side looked down and out after going 2-0 down to Egypt but produced a stirring comeback to win 3-2 and make it through to the quarter-finals. Rivaldo was quick to take to social media afterwards to speak of his admiration for Messi and his performance on Tuesday. “What a fighting spirit, what a desire to win, what a battle and dedication from everyone! This is exactly what the fan expects from his team in the World Cup,” he posted on Instagram. “As for talking about Leo Messi, it’s a given. What a player! At 39 years old, playing his sixth World Cup in his career, he still shows the same passion for the Argentina jersey; he celebrates, he fights, he cries, and once again he is the decisive player. View this post on Instagram “I am Brazilian, I love my country, and I will always cheer for the Brazilian national team. Competition is part of football, but I also know how to appreciate and admire when I watch a great match and a team that gives everything it has on the field. “Matches like these elevate the value of football, and they are worthy of the World Cup. Congratulations to Argentina on qualifying.” Argentina and Messi now go on to play either Switzerland or Colombia for a place in the last four of the tournament.

‘Incredible’ – Lionel Messi thrilled by Argentina win but ‘really angry’ at missing penalty

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JULY 03: Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates after the team's second goal by Lisandro Martinez #6 during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Argentina and Cabo Verde at Miami Stadium on July 03, 2026 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lionel Messi has shared his thoughts after Argentina qualified for the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026 after a 3-2 win over Egypt in the last 16. The GOAT was on target as the defending champions turned around a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Enzo Fernandez. Messi was clearly emotional afterwards and admitted it was a huge relief to make it through. “Honestly, I’m happy to have qualified, because of how we did it. It got tough at 2-0. It was very exciting to be able to turn it around. We suffered a lot again, but this is the World Cup. All the matches are the same. Everything is very close. I’m very happy,” he told reporters. “It was a relief for everyone, given how the game unfolded. It’s not easy to come back from 2-0 down… But, as I always say, this group never gives up and tries until the very end. We were lucky to get Cuti’s goal early, we still had time left, and we turned it around in the 90 minutes. What this group did today was incredible. I’m very happy, very pleased that people can continue to enjoy it. I hope we keep going.” Messi missed the chance to make it 1-1 after missing a penalty and admitted he was devastated to pass up the chance from the spot. “I was really angry about the penalty, very distressed about missing again. If I had scored the penalty at that moment, it would have changed the game. We were playing well. Aside from the penalty, we had clear chances. The goalkeeper made some incredible saves,” he added. “Luckily, in the end, I got the chance. It’s something very special to be able to help this group after what had happened. It’s yet another example of pride, character, and desire. I’m very proud.” Messi has now missed two penalties at World Cup 2026 but he’s still the leading scorer with eight goals from five matches for Argentina.

‘Lionel Messi became an animal’ – Zlatan Ibrahimovic blown away by Argentina star’s World Cup heroics

Lionel Andres Messi (Argentina) scores and celebrates his teams second goal during Round of 16 FIFA World Cup 2026, Argentina and Egypt, Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, United States on July 07 2026. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Zlatan Ibrahimovic has waxed lyrical about Lionel Messi after seeing the GOAT help inspire Argentina to a sensational comeback at World Cup 2026. The defending champions looking to be heading out of the tournament after going 2-0 down to Egypt in the last 16 on Tuesday. However, Messi helped inspire an amazing turnaround, scoring the equaliser to make it 2-2 before Enzo Fernandez headed home in stoppage time to seal an incredible 3-2 victory. Here’s what Zlatan made of the drama in Atlanta. “Messi became an animal and nobody could catch him. He just went on, went on and this is the one I saw, the one we’re used to seeing and that we are still seeing,” he said on Fox Sports. “You can still see also emotionally how much it means for him. Remember that he’s already won this World Cup. He already won a lot of trophies, the Ballon d’Or, everything. I can sit here and give his CV and it looks perfect. But he still wants it and that is impressive. Look at that.” Messi now leads the scoring charts at World Cup 2026 on eight goals, one clear of nearest challengers Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland and will face either Colombia or Switzerland in the quarter-finals next with Argentina. Can he inspire Argentina to another World Cup victory? Tell us what you think in the comments below!

Argentina 3-2 Egypt, World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi leads historic comeback as Albiceleste advance to quarter-finals

Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu via Getty Images Argentina’s World Cup title defense is somehow, someway, remarkably still alive as the Albiceleste pulled off a historic comeback to beat Egypt 3-2 in their Round of 16 clash in Atlanta. After going down 2-0 in the first 80 minutes and looking all but done, Lionel Messi put on the cape and led a comeback that was completed by a 92nd minute winner from Enzo Fernández to send Argentina to the Last Eight in the most dramatic way imaginable. Reactions & Observations For 80 minutes in Atlanta, Argentina were staring at one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history with a flat, slow and very poor performance. Egypt defended for their lives, Mostafa Shoubir had the game of his life in goal, and the underdogs had a two-goal lead that felt like good enough to pull off a miracle. Then Lionel Messi happened: after missing an early penalty and not looking like himself he decided to put the country on his back, assisting Cuti Romero’s header and scoring a powerful and angry goal off the crossbar to equalize and bring the Albiceleste back to life. And there was still time for the miracle: a great pass from Julián Álvarez released Lautaro Martínez down the right wing, and his cross was headed home by Enzo Fernández to send the crowd into a frenzy and complete one of the greatest comebacks of all time. It’s hard to find the words to describe the feeling of watching that unfold, what this means for Messi’s legacy as he decides yet another World Cup game, and how much momentum Argentina will take from this despite a very poor performance. There is nothing like the World Cup. There will never be anything like the World Cup.

OPEN THREAD | JULY 7, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho POORTUGAL Portugal are out, terrible midifeld and lack of serious threat all around. Martinez a terrible coach. Players look crazy under him. ARGENTINA VS EGYPT lets see

Argentina vs Egypt, World Cup 2026: Live Match Thread

Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images WELCOME TO MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM!!! The beautiful home of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons is the site of a huge World Cup Round of 16 clash between reigning champions Argentina and Egypt. The Albiceleste barely escaped a massive upset against Cape Verde in the last round and are looking for less drama this time around on their way to the quarter-finals, but Egypt have Mo Salah, Omar Marmoush and young Barcelona striker Hamza Abdelkarim and are looking to continue making history in their best-ever World Cup campaign. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos! LINEUPS ARGENTINA Starting XI: Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes, Mac Allister, Enzo; Messi, Julián (4-4-2) Substitutes: Musso (GK), Rulli (GK), Senesi, Montiel, Otamendi, Medina, Barco, Lo Celso, Palacios, González, Almada, Simeone, Paz, López, Lautaro EGYPT Starting XI: Shoubir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez; Lashin, Attia; Hassan, Salah, Ashour; Zico (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Elshenawy (GK), Soliman (GK), Alaa (GK), Abdelmaguid, Alaa, Fathy, Donga, Saber, Trezeguet, Hamza, Adel, Marmoush, Zizo MATCH INFO Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Round of 16 Date/Time: Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 12pm ET, 9am PT (USA), 6pm CET (Barcelona), 5pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 9.30pm IST (India) Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, United States Referee: François Letexier (FRA) HOW TO WATCH On TV: FOX (USA), ITV 1 (UK), Unite8 Sports 1 (India), TVE La 1 (Spain), SuperSport (Nigeria), others Online: FuboTV (USA), ITVX (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Matchday Thread Rules We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads: Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another. Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

Why Jude Bellingham’s world is bigger than most of us can understand

The boy who has it all has ambitions to play James Bond but for the time being he is more reminiscent of Novak Djokovic There has never been an English footballer quite like Jude Bellingham. He has the cockiness and explosiveness of a teenage Wayne Rooney and the vision of Paul Scholes, but that doesn’t come close to covering it. There are endless layers to Bellingham, the boy who has it all. He can be the No 8, the No 9 or the No 10. He has the flair of a Glenn Hoddle and the chest-out bravado of Paul Gascogine, but he also has the bravery of Bryan Robson, the rampaging qualities of Steven Gerrard and, as Mexico discovered at the Estadio Azteca, the ability to morph into the world’s best defender and drag his team out of the mire with a goal-saving challenge. More? Bellingham has film-star looks, can charm like David Beckham and, given how much he has achieved, does not sound ridiculous when he says his post-retirement ambition is to play James Bond. Continue reading...

The superstar double act that became England's Wonderwall

With 10 of England's 11 goals at the World Cup scored by either Harry Kane or Jude Bellingham, BBC Sport looks at how dependent on them the team is.

FC Barcelona News: 7 July 2026; Spain advance to World Cup quarter-finals, Cristian Romero wants Barça move

Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images Ferran Torres key in Spain’s win – FC Barcelona The Spanish national side are through to the Last Eight of the World Cup after a 1-0 win over Portugal in the Last 16. Four of the eight Blaugranes in the Spain squad started the game and Ferran Torres came off the bench in the second half to play a vital role in the win. FC Barcelona appoints Benjamin Kugel as the new fitness coach in Hansi Flick’s coaching staff – FC Barcelona German fitness coach joins club after an extensive career in European football and the international game. Casadó opens the door to his departure: “I will speak with the manager, the club and we will decide” – Mundo Deportivo “Whenever the club and the manager want me, I’ll be here eager to give my all, that’s not going to change,” the youth academy graduate declared. Cuti Romero is targeting Barça – Mundo Deportivo Tottenham are reportedly planning the departure of the central defender, who would like his next destination to be in La Liga. Graham’s long-awaited renewal is imminent – Mundo Deportivo Both within the club and the player’s camp, there is a sense that the announcement will come soon.

‘One of the most important performances of his career’ – Spain boss hails Lamine Yamal after Portugal win

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has hailed Lamine Yamal in the wake of the team’s 1-0 win over Portugal at World Cup 2026. A late goal from Mikel Merino sent Spain into the quarter-finals of the competition and a date with Belgium. Yamal came up against Nuno Mendes during the game, a player he has recently described as his toughest opponent, but saw him depart in the second half due to injury. De la Fuente says the match was one of the most important games Yamal has ever played and was thrilled with his performance. “He played one of the most important matches of his life, one that helped him grow. Nuno’s injury was possibly a consequence of the demands Yamal put on him,” he told reporters. “He did a spectacular job, he suffered for the team, and he delivered one of the most important performances of his career. And he still has so much more to achieve at this World Cup.” How did you see Yamal’s performance against Portugal? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Mbappé, governments of France and Paraguay react to racist remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla

PARIS, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 27: Paris Saint-Germain's French forward Kylian Mbappe arrives to attend a state dinner organized by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron for Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani at the Elysee Presidential Palace on February 27, 2024 in Paris, France. This state visit is an opportunity for the two heads of state to congratulate themselves on the quality of the Franco-Qatari consultation on all regional and international subjects. It will also make it possible to deepen the bilateral relationship, in line with the 2030 visions of France and Qatar, in the economic and investment fields, in the field of defense and security, but also in terms of relations. cultural and development cooperationphoto by Christian Liewig - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images) | Corbis via Getty Images In the aftermath of France’s win over Paraguay in the round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup, Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappé was subjected to racist abuse from Paraguayan Senator Celeste Amarilla. Kylian Mbappé, a leading advocate against racism in football, has responded, and so have the governments of France and Paraguay. The Paraguayan government announced: “The Government of the Republic of Paraguay deplores and rejects the statements made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national football team, Kylian Mbappé. These statements are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes. Paraguay is a democratic republic governed by the principle of the separation and independence of the branches of government. In this context, the statements made by the aforementioned legislator correspond exclusively to the exercise of her individual responsibility as a member of the Legislative Branch and in no way represent the position of the Government of the Republic of Paraguay or of the Paraguayan people. The Government of Paraguay reaffirms its firm commitment to the promotion of human rights, equality, and respect among all people, as well as to the fight against racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and every form of hatred or discrimination. Likewise, it expresses its solidarity with those who may have felt affected by these statements and reiterates its respect for the French people, with whom Paraguay maintains a historic relationship of friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding.” The French government has also shared its thoughts. In a statement from President Emanuel Macron, they announced the following: “The President of the Republic supports Kylian Mbappé and the French national team in the face of the racist attacks to which the captain of Les Bleus has been subjected. The Paraguayan President wrote to the French President to this effect, condemning the remarks made, as did the Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.” The current leading goalscorer of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Mbappé, announced the following on X: Madame Celeste Amarilla, Vous êtes une femme méprisable et indigne de sa fonction. Vous ne représentez pas le Paraguay, ce pays qui a transpiré la passion et l’honneur tout au long de la compétition. Par votre inconscience et votre racisme décomplexé, le monde entier a déjà… pic.twitter.com/EnYmgQXvPL — Kylian Mbappé (@KMbappe) July 6, 2026

Who will Spain play next at World Cup 2026 after beating Portugal? Date and time of quarter-final clash

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain are safely into the quarter-finals of World Cup 2026 after a narrow 1-0 win over Portugal on Monday in Dallas. Luis de la Fuente’s side left it late to progress, needing a stoppage-time goal from substitute Mikel Merino to progress to the last eight. Spain now go on to play either USA or Belgium in the quarter-finals on Friday, July 10th at 9pm CET in Los Angeles. Mauricio Pochettino’s side face Belgium in their Round of 16 later today. The game has been overshadowed by FIFA’s decision to suspend a one-game ban for Folarin Balogun for the game. Belgium are furious with the decision. Here’s a look at how the quarter-finals are shaping up. France vs Morocco USA or Belgium vs Spain Norway vs England Switzerland or Colombia vs Argentina or Egypt Which teams do you think will progress to the last four of World Cup 2026? Share your predictions in the comments below!

Portugal 0-1 Spain, World Cup 2026: La Roja dominate second half, advance to quarter-finals

Photo by Torbjorn Tande/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images Spain’s journey in World Cup 2026 continues as La Roja secured safe passage to the quarter-finals thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 win against Iberian rivals Portugal in Dallas on Monday’s Round of 16 clash. After a great back-and-forth battle in the first half, La Roja established their superiority in the second and sealed the victory in added time thanks to a Mikel Merino winner assisted by Ferran Torres to set up a quarter-final against the USA or Belgium on Friday. Reactions & Observations If the opening 45 minutes were a wondeful back-and-forth battle between two very talented squads, the second half showed exactly why Spain are a team and Portugal are a collection of individuals: La Roja were far superior in the final period, and deservedly won the game at the end after dominating in every phase of the game. The much-anticipated duel between Nuno Mendes and Lamine Yamal was a lot of fun: both players were up for it and both came out on top in different moments, and it’s a real shame that it only lasted 55 minutes as Mendes was forced off with an injury. Yamal’s performance was far from perfect, but he was still involved in plenty of dangerous moments and did a lot of damage as a playmaker. With better finishing around him, he could have easily gotten an assist in this one. Luis de la Fuente isn’t exactly beloved by Barcelona fans, but his impact on this game is undeniable: two crucial substitutions (Ferran Torres and Mikel Merino) that changed the feel of the contest and ultimately won it at the end. Sorry, everyone, but he’s a good coach. Speaking of sorry, the apology needs to be as loud as the disrespect when it comes to Ferran: he came off the bench determined to put pressure on the Portugal defense with his non-stop running with and without the ball, and his assist for Merino’s winner was a beautiful display of his quality. Very decisive contributions from a player who will forever be underrated, even by fans of his own club. Spain are through as deserved winners, and after a dominant performance against Austria they showed up again and were far superior to Portugal in the second half. This is the type of win and display that makes you believe they can actually do it in a possible semi-final against France if they get past USA or Belgium in Friday’s quarter-final.

Spain knock Bernardo Silva, Portugal out of the World Cup

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 06: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal shows dejection after Spain's first goal with Bernardo Silva #10 during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Portugal and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Joosep Martinson - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Spain narrowly beat Portugal 1-0 to knock them out of the World Cup in the Round-of-16 clash on Monday. Bernardo Silva, as has been the case in all but one match in this World Cup, started on the bench as Portugal looked to advance to the quarter-finals of the tournament. Portugal defended well all game, and had a few good chances going forward, but a costly, collective defensive error cost them the game when Mikel Merino slipped through the defense to score the winner towards the end of the game. Silva’s shift was full of chaos, as he picked up a yellow card just a couple of minutes after coming on. He also had a brilliant chance to equalise for Portugal in stoppage time, but his header went over the bar. Portugal would have played the winner of the Belgium and United States match later on Monday night, but their campaign — which has been full of inconsistencies and holes — ended prematurely, as did Cristiano Ronaldo’s last ever World Cup match for Portugal.

‘A despicable woman’: Kylian Mbappé hits out at Paraguayan senator over racist attack

Celeste Amarilla called striker a ‘colonised Cameroonian’ French Football Federation to file criminal charges The France striker Kylian Mbappé has hit back at a Paraguayan senator, describing her ⁠as a “despicable woman” after she launched a racist attack on him. Mbappé’s ⁠penalty proved ​the difference in an ill-tempered match as France beat Paraguay 1-0 in Philadelphia on Saturday to advance ⁠to the quarter-finals. Celeste Amarilla wrote a long racist tirade on X, describing Mbappé as a “colonised Cameroonian, desperately trying to ⁠pass himself off as French,” and as a “brute who had not learned to ​write”. Paraguay’s players should have ‌slapped him after the ‌match, she added. Continue reading...

Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal start in Portugal vs Spain LIVE!

Portugal v Spain: World Cup 2026 last 16 – live

⚽️ Kick-off time: 2pm local, 3pm EDT, 8pm BST, 5am AEST ⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology| Golden Boot | Email Scott All the Golden Boot talk is currently of Mbappé and Messi, Haaland and Dembélé, Bellingham and Kane. In the meantime, Mikel Oyarzabal modestly goes about his business. Some pre-match reading courtesy of the Good Doctor. Spain are in If It Ain’t Broke mode. No changes to their starting XI having swept aside Austria. Continue reading...

Portugal vs Spain live stream: Lineups, Kickoff time, TV channel, How to watch World Cup 2026 online

Photo by ETIENNE LAURENT / AFP via Getty Images WELCOME TO AT&T STADIUM!!! The spectacular home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys is the site of a huge World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash between Spain and Portugal as Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Co. face their fellow Iberian rivals as they look for a place in Friday’s quarter-final. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos! LINEUPS SPAIN Starting XI: Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Raya (GK), Joan (GK), Pubill, Grimaldo, Eric, Llorente, Merino, Fabián, Gavi, Zubimendi, Ferran, Pino, Williams, Iglesias, Muñoz PORTUGAL Starting XI: Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Neto, Fernandes, Félix; Ronaldo (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Sá (GK), Silva (GK), Semedo, Araujo, Dalot, Inacio, Costa, Nunes, Bernardo, Neves, Ramos, Trincão, Leão, Guedes, Conceição MATCH INFO Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Round of 16 Date/Time: Monday, July 6, 2026, 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12.30am IST (India, Tuesday) Venue: AT&T Stadium, Dallas, United States Referee: Anthony Taylor (ENG) HOW TO WATCH On TV: FOX (USA), BBC One (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others Online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Matchday Thread Rules We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads: Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another. Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

‘These guys are losers’: Brazil berated back home after defeat by Norway

Carlo Ancelotti and his players have been lambasted for their ‘shameful’ and ‘embarrassing’ World Cup exit The wait for the hexa – the record-extending sixth World Cup – continues. Brazil’s 2-1 loss to Norway in the last 16 of the World Cup on Sunday means they have gone six tournaments in a row without being crowned champions. Some in Brazil are calling it the reverse hexa. As you would expect, the reaction back home has been scathing. Neto, the former international who is now a pundit on Radio Bandeirantes, laid into the current crop of players. “It’s a generation that won fuck all,” he said. “There are six players who won one Copa América and that’s it. It was embarrassing from the beginning and everything that happened before that game. It was a shameful campaign and these guys are losers. It’s a generation of lies.” Continue reading...

Belgium are looking for a new beginning at the World Cup against USA | Jonathan Wilson

Parts of 2018’s Golden Generation still remain, but there are more than enough good players in this Belgian side to give the US headaches • Predict the winner | Daily podcast | Download our app The whiff of unfulfilment lingers around Belgium. The Golden Generation – and the fact it never quite achieved what it might have done – has dominated coverage of their last three tournaments.This perhaps isn’t quite fair – either on those who were part of that group or those who have followed. Beating Brazil in the quarter-final to reach the semi-final in Russia 2018 was a fine achievement, but that side featuring Vincent Kompany, Eden Hazard, Thibaut Courtois, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne then lost 1-0 to France in the semi. The squad was good enough to win a tournament, but that was as close as they came. Courtois, Lukaku, De Bruyne, Axel Witsel and the right-back Thomas Meunier have all endured since 2018. The 2026 Belgium squad is not, as 2022 felt, the Golden Generation redux, just a little bit older and a little bit more tired. A new wave is emerging and, while the likes of Leandro Trossard, Youri Tielemans, Jérémy Doku and Charles De Ketelaere may not have quite the star quality of the previous generation, they’re still decent players – perhaps not World Cup winners, but certainly not to be dismissed. And remember, this is Belgium, a country of just under 12 million; it’s not realistic to think it can consistently produce potential world champions. This is an extract from Soccer Desk: World Cup edition, a newsletter from the Guardian US that will run regularly during the tournament. Subscribe for free here. Continue reading...

‘Not good enough’ – Frenkie de Jong admits World Cup exit is hard to stomach

MONTERREY, MEXICO - JUNE 29: Frenkie de Jong of Holland disappointed after losing the penalty shoot out during the World Cup match between Holland v Morocco at the Monterrey Stadium on June 29, 2026 in Monterrey Mexico (Photo by Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has reflected on the Netherlands’ World Cup 2026 exit at the hands of Morocco and admits he’s still struggling to come to terms with the disappointment. Ronald Koeman’s side went out on penalties in the Round of 32 and De Jong has spoken about how he’s feeling in a post on Instagram. “Now, a few days after the game, the lump in my stomach and the disappointment is still the same. “It’s a huge honor and a great responsibility to play for the Dutch national team. If we can’t fulfill our own expectations and those of the people, the disappointment is extra big. We gave it all we had but it clearly wasn’t good enough. View this post on Instagram “Four years of waiting for another chance to bring home the first world title for the Netherlands feels like an eternity. “But we’re going to use the coming time to come back stronger together, so that we can live up to our own expectations and those of our fans in the next final tournaments. “Thank you for all the support and support. That was great and we definitely felt it.” De Jong will now enjoy some time off before heading back to Barcelona to link up with Hansi Flick’s squad for pre-season.

Barcelona appoint new fitness coach ahead of 2026-27 season

KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 21: Fitness coach Yann-Benjamin Kugel of the German national team talks to fitness coach Nicklas Dietrich (R) during training session at Kazan Arena on June 21, 2017 in Kazan, Russia. Germany will play against Chile in their Group B FIFA Confederation Cup Russia 2017 match on June 22, 2017 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images) | Bongarts/Getty Images Barcelona have confirmed that arrival of a new fitness coach ahead of the new 2026-27 season. The Catalans have appointed Benjamin Kugel, an experienced coach, who has previously worked alongside Hansi Flick with the Germany national team. Here’s the club’s official statement: “FC Barcelona has appointed Benjamin Kugel as the new fitness coach in Hansi Flick’s coaching staff. The German joins the club after an extensive career in European football and the international game. “He has worked at clubs including Werder Bremen, 1. FC Köln, PSV Eindhoven and Benfica. He also spent almost a decade as part of the coaching staff of the German Football Association, where he worked alongside Hansi Flick and helped the national team win the 2014 FIFA World Cup.” Barcelona are reportedly hoping that the appointment of Kugel can help improve the team’s preparation and physical issues after seeing a number of key players miss game time last season due to injury.

Let’s talk about Mikel Oyarzabal: Spain’s quiet man forced into the limelight

The 29-year-old forward always avoided attention, but his World Cup goals have dragged him into the centre of the conversation We have to talk about Mikel Oyarzabal. When Spain scored their third goal against Austria in Los Angeles, cameras caught Lamine Yamal’s little brother celebrating, fists clenched and shouting “come on!”. The picture couldn’t have been more perfect, and not just because Keyne is impossibly cute. Even the apparent imperfection was just right. On the row below, clapping and half-hiding the three-year-old, was a woman in sunglasses, prompting a Spanish TV commentator to post: “The blonde in front has denied us the best sticker of all time.” To which the striker Borja Iglesias replied: “The blonde in front has given you two goals today, my friend.” Turns out the blonde woman is Oyarzabal’s mum: her name is Dorleta and it was her son who had just scored his second goal of the game and his fourth of the tournament. Two days later, after the Selección had finished their first training session in Dallas, Marca asked Oyarzabal if he had seen the footage. Continue reading...

England ratings: Bellingham shines but heroic defence secures QF spot

England held on for an excruciating 3-2 win against Mexico thanks to a heroic defensive performance to book their place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.

England win epic tie against Mexico to reach quarter-finals

Jude Bellingham scores twice and Harry Kane converts a penalty as 10-man England beat Mexico 3-2 in the World Cup.

Portugal vs Spain, World Cup 2026: Team News, Match Preview

Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images Portugal vs Spain Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Round of 16 Spain Outs & Doubts: Yeremi Pino, Nico Williams, Victor Muñoz (doubt) Portugal Outs & Doubts: None Date/Time: Monday, July 6, 2026, 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12.30am IST (India, Tuesday) Venue: AT&T Stadium, Dallas, United States Referee: Anthony Taylor (ENG) How to watch on TV: FOX (USA), BBC One (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others How to watch online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Following a dominant victory over Austria to win their first knockout match since 2010, Spain return to action for a must-see World Cup Round of 16 clash against Portugal in Dallas on Monday afternoon. La Roja arrive at this stage after their best performance of the tournament in the Round of 32, cruising past Austria and dominating every phase of the game. They finally played like title contenders, but now face a monster test on the road to the quarter-finals. Portugal’s pre-tournament credentials placed them as one of the favorites due to their depth of world-class talent in almost every position, but their World Cup performance has not been anywhere near good enough. In fact, Portugal can count themselves extremely lucky to be here after being thoroughly outplayed by Croatia and needing a very late winner and a very controversial VAR decision to avoid extra-time and escape the Round of 32. Roberto Martínez’s side do not look like favorites or something even close to that, but it’s impossible to think this will be easy for Spain. Portugal tend to rise to the occasion, and they beat Spain in last year’s Nations League Final. They have too much talent to be taken for granted, and they’ll require La Roja’s very best. The duel between Lamine Yamal and Nuno Mendes was a big talking point in that Nations League clash and is once again the big highlight matchup in this one, and Lamine’s ability to conquer one of his toughest opponents will be crucial to Spain’s ability to advance to the quarters. Spain showed in the last round they are a better team than Portugal, but their opponents have a crazy talented collection of individuals. It’s time to see what wins at the biggest stage. Let’s dance. (Be careful, Lamine.) POSSIBLE LINEUPS Spain (4-2-3-1): Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal Portugal (4-2-3-1): Costa; Cancelo, Dias, Veiga, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha; Neto, Fernandes, Leão; Ronaldo PREDICTION Portugal is messy and should be beaten, but their talent simply cannot be taken for granted. This will be fun and open and full of chances, and I’m picking Spain to find a way to win a thriller: 3-2 La Roja.

Bellingham scores two in 98 seconds to silence the Azteca

Jude Bellingham scores two goals in 98 seconds to give England a 2-0 lead over Mexico during their last 16 match at the Mexico City Stadium.

‘Absolute confidence’ – Spain boss talks Pau Cubarsi vs Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Portugal clash

ZAPOPAN, MEXICO - JUNE 26: Pau Cubarsi #22 of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H match between Uruguay and Spain at Guadalajara Stadium on June 26, 2026 in Guadalajara, Mexico. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente is confident his players can handle the threat offered by Cristiano Ronaldo when his team face Portugal at World Cup 2026 on Monday. Ronaldo is still going at the age of 41 and has scored four goals so far at the World Cup. De la Fuente was asked about a possible duel between Pau Cubarsi and Ronaldo and says the Barcelona star can handle it. “You can never relax against Cristiano, just like with Lamine or Oyarzabal. But I have absolute confidence in my players. That’s the game: to overcome the opponent, especially near the penalty areas. Both Pau and Laporte have shown absolute composure. They are exceptional and can beat any opponent. It’s a battle to see who can do the most. I think we can control those situations,” he told reporters. “A footballer isn’t defined solely by his talent, but by a thousand other factors. And players like Cubarsí, Lamine, and Nico have a brilliant command of those situations. That’s the difference. They’re technically gifted, but the key is how they handle those moments. They play with great composure. At crucial moments, a player like Laporte brings that experience, and they complement each other fantastically. We’ve achieved a phenomenal balance. Between the four of us.” Cubarsi has shone for Spain so far at the tournament but De la Fuente has warned his players that Ronaldo will pose a threat. “I’m a huge fan of Cristiano, of people like him. Strong-willed, tireless. A role model. I’m in awe of him. It’s not the legacy he’s leaving, but the one he’s going to leave,” he added. “We have to be aware of him in every situation. It’s not about man-marking him, but we do have to be aware of him everywhere on the pitch. I’d prefer he didn’t play, but he’s going to play. We’ll enjoy watching one of the best players in history on the field.” Spain are yet to concede a goal at the tournament so far and know victory over Portugal will send them through to a quarter-final against USA or Belgium.

Managing Madrid Podcast: REACTION: Brazil Are Eliminated From The World Cup. PLUS: Mbappe And Brahim Are On Fire!

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani reacts to Brazil’s elimination against Norway in the World Cup. Also: – Vinicius Jr’s performance – Carlo Ancelotti’s football – Endrick – Casemiro – Neymar – Erling Haaland – The xG from this game… – Brahim Diaz’s performance vs Canada – Kylian Mbappe vs Paraguay and his World Cup legacy – Are Portugal saving their best performance for Spain? – And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

‘They want to destabilize things’ – Barcelona star Dani Olmo takes aim at Real Madrid

Dani Olmo attacking midfield of Barcelona and Spain prior the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) | NurPhoto via Getty Images Dani Olmo has taken aim at Real Madrid after a summer which has seen tensions rise between the two old rivals. Los Blancos have filed a complaint against Barcelona over the Negreira Case, with president Florentino Perez taking almost every opportunity he can to criticize the Catalan giants. Olmo says he’s not surprised to hear the talk from Real Madrid, pointing out how they won’t be happy due to their recent lack of trophies. “It’s normal that they want to make noise somehow,” he told RAC1. “We’ve had two years with many titles, dominating in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa, and it’s normal that they want to destabilize things, but we are focused on our own game and on continuing to win. “They are looking to improve, but we also improve every year.” After going empty-handed once again in 2025-26, Madrid have been making changes this summer. Jose Mourinho has taken charge, while Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Ibrahima Konate have all arrived.

Vinicius Jr, Endrick shocked by Norway, bow out of World Cup

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 5: Vinícius Júnior of Brazil in possession during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 16 match between Brazil and Norway at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 5, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images) | Getty Images Brazil were shockingly defeated 2-1 by Norway to bow out of the World Cup on Sunday evening. In a game that lacked control and a finishing touch from Brazil, the five-time champions’ ambition of adding a sixth was put down by Erling Haaland’s brace, before Neymar Jr scored a consolation penalty kick in the last minutes of the game. Norway played good football against Brazil, and were able to control the game for large stretches. Despite Brazil’s higher xG count (most of which would be the two penalties they got), they only had a couple of big chances in the game. One was Vinicius Jr’s brilliantly threaded trivela pass to Endrick, whose second touch fumbled the chance of him scoring before Norway opened the scoring. Soon after that, Erling Haaland scored two brilliant goals within 11 minutes of each other to put all of Brazil’s hopes to rest. Vinicius Jr created two chances and completed six dribbles. He took just two shots all game, which was surprising — one of which was a pretty big chance. Endrick, on the other hand, only came on in the second half, and was not able to put the ball in the net, despite having a brilliant opportunity to do so. Norway will now play one of Mexico and England in the next round, while both of these Real Madrid players will come back to train under Jose Mourinho a bit earlier than they would have wanted.

‘Make the defence suffer’ – Spain boss hoping for ‘great match’ from Lamine Yamal against Portugal

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 02: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria at Los Angeles Stadium on July 02, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente wants to see Lamine Yamal make Portugal’s defence suffer on Monday when the two teams meet in the last 16 of the World Cup. The Spain boss was asked if he wants to see more defensive effort from Yamal but made it clear he wants to see the teenager causing problems for the Portugal backline. “Lamine is always willing to work harder, but we shouldn’t ask more of him. We’re all delighted with what he gives us. What we need to do is make the opposing defense suffer, knowing that if they take the initiative, everyone will have to suffer,” he told reporters. “I see him getting more motivated every day. Those of you who know him know this; Lamine loves responsibility, being in the spotlight, taking the initiative. That’s why we’re working on that aspect: 0% anxiety, 100% motivation. It’s a joy to watch him train. I’m sure it will be a great match for him; he has all the ingredients for it to be.” De la Fuente also previewed Yamal’s duel with Nuno Mendes and says the teenager shouldn’t worry about previous encounters against the PSG defender. “Nuno Mendes has surely been a tough nut to crack for many defenders; he’s very good. Just as Lamine has undoubtedly given many defenders a rough night,” he added. “But above all, he needs to avoid anxiety. He needs to focus on himself and the team, as he does. Every match is different. Let’s not assume that just because an opponent beats you once, they’ll always do it. Let’s hope he gives us a glorious afternoon.” Will Spain make it past Portugal and into the quarter-finals? Share your score predictions in the comments below!

‘Very bright future’ – Cristiano Ronaldo talks Lamine Yamal ahead of World Cup clash

MUNICH, GERMANY - JUNE 08: Lamine Yamal of Spain competes for the ball with Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the UEFA Nations League 2025 final match between Portugal and Spain at Munich Football Arena on June 08, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images) | Getty Images Cristiano Ronaldo is set to face Lamine Yamal and Spain on Monday at World Cup 2026 and was asked about the Barcelona youngster ahead of the game. The Portugal veteran was asked for his thoughts on Yamal and offered up the following response at the press conference. “Lamine is a player with a very bright future. I didn’t see any of Spain’s matches, I only saw a bit of the game against Cape Verde, but as I said, he has a very bright future,” he told reporters. “But I see Spain as a whole. They’re very good, they play very well, and it will be very tough. Ronaldo was also asked about recent comments from Yamal about how he handles criticism and understands not all fans will like him. “I think the more prepared you are, the better you’ll survive a long football career. If you succumb to criticism, you’re finished. It’s normal; it’s your job. Some criticism is constructive, and other criticism is just to tear you apart,” he added. “I understand; it’s part of how the press sells the news. In your case, you have to get used to it if you want a long career. You have to focus on those who care about you. I learned that over the years. Difficult times will come, obviously; there will certainly be days when you don’t feel like working, and that’s normal. It’s part of our job.” Spain and Portugal meet in Dallas on Monday in what will be a repeat of last year’s Nations League final which Roberto Martinez’s side won on penalties.

Paraguay showed France can be stifled – Morocco will have taken note | Paul MacInnes

This was the least convincing performance by the World Cup favourites and their quarter-final opponents will also make it uncomfortable for them There were furious celebrations when France secured their place in the quarter-finals. The entire squad charged from the centre spot to the end of the Philadelphia stadium where the core of French support was gathered. There was a pile-on, there was roaring and chests were actively thumped. Leading the proceedings, as ever, was Kylian Mbappé. As soon as the revelry had subsided, the French captain immediately turned to the TV cameras and framed the narrative of the game. This had been less of a match and more of a battle, he said, against a Paraguay side who had nagged, nibbled and, occasionally, smashed their way through proceedings. “We knew what kind of match we were going to have,” Mbappé said. “But we know how to get our hands dirty.” Continue reading...

Mbappé’s World Cup legacy is already scary good

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 04: Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates scoring a penalty for the team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) | Getty Images Kylian Mbappé made his World Cup debut eight years ago in Russia. He’s only in his third tournament, and he already sits one goal behind Lionel Messi atop the competition’s all-time scoring list, with 19 goals from as many appearances. At the rate he’s going, whatever gap remains between the two won’t last long, and the record will likely belong to Mbappé outright before his career is done. The numbers keep piling up in strange ways. He is now the only player ever to score at least three goals in the knockout stage at three separate World Cups. He was already a world champion at 19, in 2018. Four years later in Qatar, he dragged France to another final almost single-handedly and scored a hat-trick against Argentina. Add his goal in the 2018 final against Croatia, and Mbappé has four goals across the two biggest matches in the sport, more than anyone else in World Cup history has managed in finals alone. The kid who arrived in Russia as a lanky winger with a jet engine for a first touch is now the most feared finisher in the tournament. He played in back-to-back finals in 2018 and 2022. Whether anyone finds a way to stop him from making it three in a row is one of the more interesting questions left in this tournament.

Spain boss offers Lamine Yamal advice ahead of clash with Nuno Mendes and Portugal

BARCELONA, SPAIN - OCTOBER 01: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Nuno Mendes of Paris Saint-Germain during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on October 01, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images) | Getty Images Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has had some words of advice for Lamine Yamal ahead of Spain’s last 32 tie against Portugal at World Cup 2026. The game will see Yamal come up against Nuno Mendes once again. Yamal has said recently that Mendes is the toughest opponent he has faced, and De la Fuente has analyzed the match-up between the two players. “He has faced him with his club and his country. In that process of development that Lamine is still in, he knows that it is the big games against great opponents that lay down a marker: they’re the ones that shape and define you, show you a path,” he told The Guardian. “Lamine is a competitor and he will have the desire to remove the thorn from his side from that [Nations League] game. But a long time has passed since then and Lamine has grown a lot. Lamine is not the player he was a year ago; he’s another player, more mature, more assured, he reads the games better, logically. “With every stage of his development, every experience, he will be more complete. So what would I say to him? ‘Be yourself, enjoy football, with the responsibility that comes with it, the responsibility that you take on, but be yourself.’” Spain head into the match after an impressive win over Austria in the Round of 32, while Portugal booked their place with a 2-1 win over Croatia.

Brazil vs Norway preview: 'No anti-Haaland plan', says Ancelotti

World Cup 2026: Mexico v England buildup, France battle past Paraguay, Morocco march on – live

⚽ All the latest news and reaction from the World Cup ⚽ Player guide | Bracketology | Knockout draw | Email us Kylian Mbappe has pulled level with Lionel Messi at the top of the Golden Boot charts. Both icons have seven after the Frenchman tucked away the winning penalty against Paraguay. Erling Haaland (5), Harry Kane (5) and Vinícius Júnior (4) all have the chance to close the gap in the next 24 hours. And also look out for Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal (4) creeping up on the rails. Continue reading...

Luis de la Fuente: ‘I say this with the greatest respect: we have the best midfield in the world’

Spain’s manager answers your questions on advice for Lamine Yamal, the hardest thing about being a coach and how the current team compares to the winners of 2010 “You’ve filtered these, right?” Luis de la Fuente asks, looking at the laptop of your questions on the table in front of him, and cracking up. He takes his seat on the third floor of the Cotton Bowl, Dallas, where Spain have just finished training ahead of their last-16 meeting with Portugal. Some of the players are still out there in the sunshine, in the place where Bebeto rocked the baby in 1994. It is the morning after that Cape Verde performance against Argentina. The World Cup is a creator of memories, pictures in the mind that never go. We all have one, or more. “Because of what it means for Spain, it has to be [Andrés] Iniesta’s goal,” De la Fuente says. “It’s not very original but that’s the image of the World Cup for us. I would have been at home watching it. I have always been very into the national team. Whenever the Selección played, it was an event at my parents’ house. My parents would watch, my brothers and sisters, people would come round to watch. That’s in Haro, La Rioja. And then as a professional, wherever the game found me, I would watch it. I would enjoy every World Cup game, but especially the Spain ones. There are other images of the World Cup, but that’s the most powerful.” Continue reading...

Football is at the centre of the universe in Brazil in a way it is not in the US | Rodrygo

Huge parties take place when the national team play but people in Brazil cherish a good game, whoever is playing The World Cup atmosphere, which, for many of us, is one of the most infectious feelings there is, has, in the US been confined to the stadiums, the surrounding streets and fan festivals. This has been played out before and comes as no surprise. Football has limited traction in North American culture. This highlights how different it is being in the US to being in Brazil, where I am now after following the national team in North America. Football’s extremely important role in Brazilian culture explains why the national team at the World Cup is the centre of our universe. Continue reading...

France find a way past Paraguay and what awaits England in Mexico? - World Cup Daily

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Archie Rhind-Tutt, Barney Ronay and Philippe Auclair as France beat a spiky Paraguay side to reach the quarter-finals Rate, review, share on Apple Podcasts and join the conversation on email. On the podcast today; a masterclass in the dark arts from Paraguay, who somehow didn’t receive a yellow card until after the game had finished. Ultimately a Kylian Mbappé penalty was enough to see France through to the quarter-finals where they will play Morocco. Continue reading...

Hamza Abdelkarim learning from Mo Salah as he prepares to face Lionel Messi at World Cup 2026

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 03: (L-R) Ramy Rabia, Mahmoud Saber, Yasser Ibrahim, Haissem Hassan, Mohamed Hany, Emam Ashour, Hamza Abdelkarim, Trezeguet, Mohamed Salah #10 of Egypt celebrate after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Australia and Egypt at Dallas Stadium on July 3, 2026 in Arlington, United States. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdelkarim is part of an Egypt team celebrating making it through to the last 16 of World Cup 2026 and a date with defending champions Argentina. Egypt beat Australia on penalties to make it through, with the Barcelona youngster appearing off the bench for the Pharoahs. Speaking afterwards, Abdelkarim admitted he was thrilled and revealed how he’s learning from team-mate Mo Salah. “It’s a fantastic feeling to qualify, and the entire nation is celebrating,” he told reporters. “I am learning and improving every single day, whether during training sessions or in matches. “Salah has been incredibly supportive since day one, constantly sharing his vast experience with everyone. I try to absorb as much as I can from him; his career is truly legendary, and sharing the pitch with him is a dream come true.” Next up for Egypt is a game against Argentina and Lionel Messi, with Abdelkarim fully focused on the task at hand. “We are fully prepared for any opponent in the Round of 16,” he added. “I am here only to play football and I don’t pay attention to the media noise or what is being said about me; my entire focus is strictly on the pitch.” Argentina will be favorites to win when the two teams play on Tuesday in Atlanta. The winners of the game will progress to a quarter-final tie against Switzerland or Colombia.

Brahim Díaz Shines With Two Assists Vs Canada

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JULY 04: Brahim Diaz #10 of Morocco celebrates after the 3-0 victory during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between Canada and Morocco at Houston Stadium on July 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Hannah Peters - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Morocco are through to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Canada 3-0 in the Round of 16, becoming the first African nation to reach the last eight of the tournament on more than one occasion. After making history with a semifinal run in Qatar four years ago, the Atlas Lions have once again established themselves among the world’s elite. They will now face France in Boston on Thursday for a place in the semifinals. Brahim Díaz delivers for Morocco Real Madrid’s Brahim Díaz was the lone Madridista involved in the match and played an important role in Morocco’s victory from the right wing. Although he wasn’t on the scoresheet, Brahim produced two assists, including a perfectly timed pass that set up Azzedine Ounahi’s second goal during a devastating counterattack in the 82nd minute to effectively seal the contest. The 25-year-old also contributed defensively throughout the match, finishing with: 2 assists 32 touches 3 defensive recoveries 1 tackle 1 interception It was another well-rounded display from Brahim, whose work rate off the ball complemented his creativity in transition. Morocco withstand Canadian pressure The final scoreline hardly reflected the balance of play. Canada controlled large stretches of the opening half and spent much of the match pushing Morocco onto the back foot. However, the Atlas Lions defended with discipline before punishing the hosts as they committed more bodies forward in search of an equalizer. Ounahi was the star of the afternoon, scoring twice, with his second arriving after Brahim Díaz released him on the break before the midfielder calmly finished with his right foot from inside the penalty area. Substitute Soufiane Rahimi, who had entered after Ismael Saibari was forced off through injury in the 22nd minute, completed the scoring deep into stoppage time. Bounou stands tall Canada created opportunities to get back into the match but found Yassine Bounou in inspired form. The Moroccan goalkeeper, who was born in Canada to Moroccan parents, made three saves, including an excellent diving stop to deny Tajon Buchanan’s powerful long-range effort late in the second half. Jonathan David also came close with a free kick in the 78th minute, but his effort sailed over the crossbar. The physical nature of the contest was reflected in the referee’s notebook, with eight yellow cards shown—four to each side. Another historic chapter for Morocco Morocco entered the knockout rounds after eliminating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout and have continued their impressive World Cup run with another composed performance under pressure. The victory also served as a repeat of the 2022 World Cup meeting between these two nations, when Morocco defeated Canada 2-1 during the group stage on their way to becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semifinal. For Canada, the defeat brings an end to a memorable tournament. The co-hosts had reached the knockout stage and celebrated their first-ever World Cup knockout victory after defeating South Africa in the Round of 32, but Morocco once again proved to be an obstacle they could not overcome.

Mbappé spot-on to take France past stubborn Paraguay into World Cup quarter-finals

On this occasion, France kept the champagne football on ice. Which was probably just as well, given the temperature. As Philadelphia broiled in an independence day heatwave, the World Cup favourites were forced to drop a gear or two but still had too much for a Paraguay team that set out for a fight but were ultimately no more than a nuisance. In the annals of France-Paraguay encounters this was more France 98 than Sweden 58, where Just Fontaine embellished his World Cup legend with a hat-trick. Les Bleus’ modern-day goal machine, Kylian Mbappé, had to make do with just the one, a penalty, to draw him level again with Lionel Messi in the golden boot race, but one behind the great man in terms of the all-time goalscoring record. Continue reading...

‘Raphinha is progressing well’ – Carlo Ancelotti says Barcelona star could feature against Norway for Brazil

Brazil's forward #11 Raphinha smiles during a training session at the Columbia Park Training Facility in Morristown, New Jersey on July 3, 2026, ahead of the 2026 World Cup tournament round of 16 football match between Brazil and Norway. (Photo by MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti says Raphinha is recovering well from his latest injury setback and could potentially feature for the Selecao in their last 16 tie against Norway at World Cup 2026. Raphinha was injured against Haiti and hasn’t featured since. It had been reported he would miss the Norway game but Ancelotti claims he could potentially feature as a substitute. “Raphinha is progressing very well, he’s not 100%, but he could be available on the bench and play a few minutes or be useful in some moments. “He recovered very well and very quickly, we’re happy about that because Raphinha is very important to the team,” he told reporters. Brazil face Norway in New Jersey on Monday and it seems like Raphinha will be in the squad for the game. The Brazilian has vowed to return as quickly as possible after injury but Barca will certainly be hoping no risks are taken with the forward. The winner of the match between Brazil and Norway will progress to a quarter-final tie against Mexico or England.

Lamine Yamal set to face his toughest opponent as Spain take on Portugal at World Cup 2026

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 02: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria at Los Angeles Stadium on July 02, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lamine Yamal is set to come up against Nuno Mendes next at World Cup 2026 as Spain face Portugal in the last 16 of the tournament. The Barcelona named Mendes as the “toughest opponent” he’s faced in his career so far in a recent interview but will now come up against the defender on Monday when the two teams meet. Former Spain and Real Madrid defender Michel Salgado thinks the duel between two players will be absolutely key to the outcome of the match. “The duel between Lamine and Nuno will be one of the head-to-head matchups of the World Cup. The kind that makes matches and tournaments great. I think that duel will probably be one of the defining moments of the game. “If Lamine gets the better of Nuno, Spain will have a big advantage… but if it’s the other way around, Portugal will gain the upper hand,” he said, per AS. “But I trust Lamine, because he has a magic box full of tricks. And when he unleashes them… he’s unstoppable. “So Nuno will have to bring out his best, that’s clear. It will be a physical duel between speedsters. The kind that breaks down any tactical system or coach’s game plan and unleashes an individual battle.” Mendes was named Player of the Match and said he “cancelled out” Yamal last summer when the two teams met in the Nations League final. “It was a clash like many others I have had during the season,” he said afterwards. “I have faced up to many great players, very technically skilled players who can make a difference, but today I cancelled out Lamine and [did] not let him do what he does best.” The Barcelona teenager will need no reminding of that clash and will hoping to come out on top when the two teams meet again in Dallas. Will Spain beat Portugal at the World Cup? Share your predictions in the comments below!

‘An incredible man’: how Carlo Ancelotti has turned Brazil into potential World Cup winners

Italian’s man-management and decisiveness has shielded the talented Seleção squad and made fans believe again Brazil arrived at the World Cup with several open wounds. Since Qatar in 2022 there were four changes of manager, 95 players called up and a political crisis, including the ousting of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president. It has been a big mess, with many uncertainties, and the mood among the fans was one of pessimism. But then Carlo Ancelotti arrived. Gradually under the Italian, the team has taken shape and transformed its relationship with fans, who are again dreaming of a sixth World Cup after 24 years without one, the longest such drought alongside the period between 1970 and 1994. Ancelotti has become a shield for the players. Even the most experienced ones, such as Alisson, Danilo, Marquinhos and Casemiro, feel more at ease having such a great figure on the bench, the most successful manager in the Champions League, with five titles. Continue reading...

Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde (AET), World Cup 2026: Albiceleste survive extra-time thriller, advance to Round of 16

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images The reigning World Cup champions are still alive and through to the Round of 16 thanks to a hard-fought 3-2 win in extra-time against tournament debutants Cape Verde. Argentina did not play their best game and found themselves in a massive batte against the tournament’s best story, but the Albiceleste found a way to win it after 120 minutes and are still alive in their title defense thanks to a goal and an assist from Lionel Messi. Reactions & Observations Argentina played at a very slow pace throughout the game, but the first half was one of full control that gave them the lead thanks to a brilliant long pass by Lisandro Martínez and an even better combination of first touch and finish from Lionel Messi. The Albiceleste could have pushed for a second but decided not to, and the game felt so easy that Argentina decided to slow it down even more and give Cape Verde the ball. The underdogs grew into the contest and found a shocking equalizer, and Vozinha put on a show in the second half to send the game to extra-time, which was in itself a gigantic achievement. When Lisandro Martínez scored two minutes into extra-time, it felt like Argentina would finally establish their superiority and kill off the game. Then Lopes Cabral scored one of the great goals in recent World Cup history, and Cape Verde came back to equalize for a second time in spectacular fashion. Messi’s corner found the head of Cristian Romero to give Argentina a third lead on the night in the second half of the extra period, and that was finally enough to put the game away and send the champions to the Round of 16. Cape Verde’s story in the World Cup ends the only way it could have: in epic fashion, with extraordinary spirit and resilience that kept them alive until the very end. No one will ever forget Vozinha and his buddies, and I’m not afraid to say it: whoever wins the World Cup, they will not be the People’s Champion. That title already belongs to Cape Verde. As for Argentina, this is an extremely concerning performance as they try to defend their title. Maybe this will serve as a wake-up call and we’ll see a better version of the Albiceleste, but they don’t inspire a lot of confidence right now.

Fede Valverde accepts responsibility after Uruguay’s World Cup exit: “I know I wasn’t up to it”

ZAPOPAN, MEXICO - JUNE 26: Federico Valverde of Uruguay is seen prior the 2026 FIFA World Cup First Stage Group H match between Uruguay and Spain at Estadio Akron (Guadalajara Stadium) in Zapopan, Guadalajara, Mexico on June 26, 2026. (Photo by Juancho Torres/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Fede Valverde has broken his silence following Uruguay’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, taking full responsibility for his performances and expressing the heartbreak of another group-stage elimination with his national team. The Real Madrid midfielder admitted he fell short of his own expectations and those of Uruguay, describing the tournament as one of the most painful moments of his career. Valverde also referenced the lingering disappointment from Uruguay’s first-round exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, saying that experience remains a “thorn” he has never fully overcome. After a demanding campaign for both club and country, the 27-year-old will now head on vacation with his wife, Mina Bonino, and their two children before returning to prepare for another important season with Real Madrid. The couple is also expecting their third child, Bruna. In a heartfelt message published on his social media accounts, Valverde wrote: “Several days have passed since the elimination and I can only now begin to process everything I experienced, although I know that there is a part of me that will possibly never manage to overcome another first round elimination, like the one I suffered in the Qatar World Cup. That thorn is still stuck. I feel a huge responsibility for my country. It’s a pride that fills my soul. I did everything in my power: I prepared myself physically and emotionally and tried not to repeat what happened again, working hard all season. But obviously it wasn’t enough. I assume the defeat. I take full responsibility for not being able to fulfill my duty to the selection and to you. I handle the failure and I know I wasn’t up to it. But in no way will I give up representing my country, even if it costs me my life. I don’t know how or when, but I swear on my life I’m not leaving this selection without leaving it at the highest.”

Argentina vs Cape Verde, World Cup 2026: Live Match Thread

Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images WELCOME TO HARD ROCK STADIUM!!! The beautiful home of the NFL’s Miami Dolphins in South Florida is the site of the World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash between reigning champions Argentina and tournament debutants Cape Verde. Lionel Messi and the Albiceleste look for safe passage to the Round of 16 as they continue their title defense, while the World Cup’s best story attempts to add their greatest chaper as cult hero goalkeeper Vozinha looks to lead his nation to a historic upset. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos! LINEUPS ARGENTINA Starting XI: Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Enzo, Almada; Messi, Lautaro (4-4-2) Substitutes: Musso (GK), Rulli (GK), Senesi, Tagliafico, Montiel, Otamendi, Paredes, Barco, Lo Celso, Palacios, Nico, Julián, Simeone, Paz, López CAPE VERDE Starting XI: Vozinha; Moreira, Lopes, Borges, Cabral; Pina; Mendes, Duarte, Duarte, Cabral; Da Costa (4-1-4-1) Substitutes: Rosa (GK), Dos Santos (GK), Stopira, Costa, Pina, Pires, Paulo, Monteiro, Rodrigues, Semedo, Semedo, Arcanjo, Varela, Benchimol, Livramento MATCH INFO Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Round of 32 Date/Time: Friday, July 3, 2026, 6pm ET, 3pm PT (USA), Midnight CET (Barcelona), 11pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 3.30am IST (India, Saturday) Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, United States Referee: Drew Fischer (CAN) HOW TO WATCH On TV: FOX (USA), ITV 1 (UK), Unite8 Sports 1 (India), TVE La 1 (Spain), SuperSport (Nigeria), others Online: FuboTV (USA), ITVX (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Matchday Thread Rules We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads: Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another. Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

Get a grip on Mora and take aerial route: what England can do to contain Mexico

Thomas Tuchel’s team can tame the co-hosts by slowing things down and isolating Raúl Jiménez One of the question marks over Mexico’s team before this World Cup centred on a shortage of obvious star quality. That accusation does not hold any more. Gilberto Mora does not turn 18 until October but has played with the authority of a veteran since Javier Aguirre answered a nation’s prayers and plunged him into the starting lineup. Against Czechia and Ecuador he made a huge difference, adding depth and daring to Mexico’s previously functional attacking patterns. He was happy to get stuck in against a midfield that included Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo, knowing he had solid backup from the more defensive Érik Lira. Mora has been compared with Andrés Iniesta; he certainly has the former Barcelona player’s quick feet and deftness of touch, and England will have to be wary of his right-sided combinations with Jorge Sánchez and the winger Roberto Alvarado. Continue reading...

Mbappé becomes leader of France’s collective under Deschamps’ regime of trust

Les Bleus’ thrilling front four is built on the spirit the head coach has fostered in his squad, allowing them to be both secure and adventurous It was a striking image, the picture that best captured France’s World Cup campaign to this point. Not the one that caught Michael Olise in full flight as he executed a perfect bicycle kick that only sprang ungratefully off a Swedish post. Nor the one of the squad posing together on their private jet, turqoise hoods drawn tight to their chins. Instead it was the one of the hug, first between Kylian Mbappé and Didier Deschamps, and then with the rest of the squad too, as they celebrated the opening goal of their 3-0 last 32 victory over Sweden in a purposeful manner. Deschamps said later that Mbappé’s dash towards the technical area had “touched me deeply”. The head coach had briefly stepped back from his duties the week before to grieve the loss of his mother. Mbappé and the squad had wanted publicly to show how much he meant to them. “The group is united,” Deschamps said. “They delivered when I was away and now I’m back, they know I’m here 100%. Team spirit doesn’t win you matches but it can help you lose them. The collective strength is above everything and Kylian is the best shining example.” Continue reading...

Family ties and focus: Lamine Yamal carries burden of Spain’s World Cup dream

The 18-year-old is leading a nation’s effort to win a second title – to the delight of his three-year-old brother No one celebrated Spain’s last-32 win quite like Keyne. As the third goal against Austria went in, cameras caught Lamine Yamal’s younger brother, still only three, raising his arms and shouting: “Come on!” And so a million memes were launched in Los Angeles. Not long after, 30 metres below ground – Los Angeles Stadium had to be built from beneath the surface because of its proximity to LAX airport – Lamine Yamal stood on a platform before a scrum of cameras, microphones and mobile phones. Someone in there showed him the footage, asked what he thought about this small boy enjoying the childhood he never could, and there was a pause. “I don’t know …” Lamine Yamal said eventually. “It makes me emotional to see my brother happy, and my mum. He is everything to me. It’s like he is my son and I’m in love with him.” Continue reading...

Germany hold Jürgen Klopp talks after Julian Nagelsmann quits as head coach

Nagelsmann agrees to quit following World Cup exit Klopp to begin discussions over return to management Julian Nagelsmann will step down as Germany’s head coach after the team’s disappointing showing at the World Cup, paving the way for the former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp to replace the 38-year-old. Nagelsmann agreed to leave the post he took over from Hansi Flick a little under three years ago after talks with German Football Association (DFB) officials at their headquarters in Frankfurt on Thursday. Continue reading...

‘We aren’t afraid’ – Lamine Yamal speaks out on facing Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal at World Cup 2026

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 02: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria at Los Angeles Stadium on July 02, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lamine Yamal says Spain don’t fear anyone at World Cup 2026 after booking a last 16 tie against Portugal by beating Austria 3-0. Luis de la Fuente’s side impressed on Thursday by cruising past Ralf Rangnick’s men thanks to two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and one from Pedro Porro. Yamal was asked about how he’s feeling about his team’s hopes and is relishing the chance to take on Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. “We have to keep improving, in our play and intensity, but we know the quality we have and we aren’t afraid of any team; we are Spain. We have to show it on the field, but we have faith in ourselves,” he told reporters. “It would be an honor to play against Cristiano , obviously, but I’m focused on winning the game and I don’t care who gets through.” Yamal also spoke about his family after his little brother stole some of the headlines with his epic reaction to Spain’s third goal against Austria that quickly went viral on social media. Lamine Yamal's little brother celebrating Spain's third goal in the stands 🤣 pic.twitter.com/K1Eo6wvYdh — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 2, 2026 “It moves me to see my brother happy, my mother living the life she’s always dreamed of, my friends… it means everything to me. My brother is like a son to me, and I’m in love with him,” he added. Spain play Portugal on Monday in Dallas at World Cup 2026. Will they go through? Share your predictions in the comments below!

Managing Madrid Podcast: Reaction To Portugal’s Win Over Croatia And Luka Modric’s Farewell

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani goes live to give his reaction Portugal’s 2 – 1 win over Croatia, with special emphasis on: The emotional roller coaster Madridistas experienced during this match Portugal’s tactical struggles Can they beat Spain? Croatia’s heart-breaking loss The controversial end The greatness of Luka Modric And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Ramos sends Portugal into last 16 as VAR drama caps wild finish against Croatia

Rafael Leão dropped to his knees. His cross had just been flicked into the net by Gonçalo Ramos to take Portugal to the last 16 of the World Cup. Leão’s expression was not one of delight, but relief. Billed as the last dance for two footballing icons, it was Luka Modrić who, at the age of 40, had to leave what will surely be his final World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo, meanwhile, plays on, and both scored and was even substituted in a match of endless incident. But this was a contest about more than two individuals, who were far from the most influential players on show, even if Ronaldo was bewilderingly named player of the match. Instead this was an old-fashioned World Cup battle between hardened teams, with momentum swinging first one way then the other then back again. It was also a match stuffed with incident, including – for the first time in World Cup history – a total of four disallowed goals, one of them denying Croatia an equaliser in the very last second of the match. Continue reading...

Pep Guardiola present as Barcelona president Joan Laporta takes the reins

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City, blows a kiss during the After Party Celebration to mark the achievements of Manchester City men’s, women’s and academy teams during the 25/26 season at The Co-op Live Arena on May 25, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images) | Getty Images Joan Laporta has started his fourth term as the club’s president. He was recently re-elected for another term, having been out of power between 2010 and 2021. After giving a speech at the official ceremony, Laporta went to the traditional match in honor of Johan Cruyff, Barcelona’s legendary player and manager. Another former Barcelona player and manager, Pep Guardiola, was in the house, too. The two posed for a picture and seemed on friendly terms. It was Laporta who first appointed Guardiola to become Barcelona’s manager in 2008; Guardiola left after Laporta was no longer president. When the manager left in 2012, there were rumors that he would not return to Barcelona while Laporta’s rivals were in charge. View this post on Instagram Guardiola managed Bayern Munich for three years and then Manchester City for four, winning many titles and accolades. He recently left City, and is taking a break from coaching. Laporta, meanwhile, has regained power at Can Barça. But there is no suggestion of a reunion, at least not yet, because Hansi Flick – who was also present at Laporta’s events – has solidified himself as Barcelona’s most successful coach in the post-Lionel Messi era. Flick, 61, has pledged that Barcelona will be his last team before retirement. Guardiola is about five years younger. Plenty of coaches have persisted into their mid-to-late 60s in club football, or even into their early 70s. A potential reunion between Guardiola and the club he’s said his heart has always belonged to is not impossible, especially if Laporta or his allies are in charge – although there is no clear path for it at the moment.

Barcelona ace Lamine Yamal takes another record off Kylian Mbappe at World Cup 2026 as Spain beat Austria

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 02: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria at Los Angeles Stadium on July 02, 2026 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lamine Yamal added another record to his growing collection at World Cup 2026 after featuring in Spain’s 3-0 win over Austria on Thursday. The Barcelona teenager started the win that has sent Spain into the last 16 of the tournament and a tie against either Croatia or Portugal. Yamal has now been on the winning side in 10 matches at major tournaments, becoming the youngest European player to do so and taking the record off Kylian Mbappe. 18 – 🇪🇸 Lamine Yamal is the youngest European player in history to end on the winning side in 10 matches at major tournaments, aged 18 years and 354 days. He is five years younger than the previous record holder (Kylian Mbappé – 23 years and 355 days). Influential. pic.twitter.com/wXd9qPZw1i — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 2, 2026 It’s not the only landmark that Yamal hit on Thursday at the World Cup. He featured alongside Barcelona team-mate Cubarsi, meaning the two players are the first teenagers to start a World Cup game together since 1958. 2 – 🇪🇸 Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal are the first pair of teenagers to start a FIFA World Cup knockout match for a team for 68 years. Pelé and Altafini in 1958 for 🇧🇷 Brazil against 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Wales in the quarter-final were the last to do so. Advanced. pic.twitter.com/UcwqZ1HHcE — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 2, 2026 The duo will expect to start again on Monday when they return to action at the World Cup. Spain head to Dallas now but must wait to see if they will take on Croatia or Portugal for a place in the quarter-finals.

Who will Spain play in the last 16 of World Cup 2026?

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JULY 2: Mikel Oyarzabal (21) of Spain celebrates with Lamine Yamal after scoring a goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between Spain and Austria at the Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium) in Inglewood, California, United States on July 2, 2026. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images) | Anadolu via Getty Images Spain are safely into the last 16 of World Cup 2026 after beating Austria on Thursday in Los Angeles thanks to two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and a Pedro Porro header. La Roja now go on to face either Croatia or Portugal in the last 16, with the two sides facing off later today in Toronto. Here’s how the last 16 is shaping up right now: Canada v Morocco Paraguay v France Spain v Portugal or Croatia USA v Belgium Brazil v Norway Mexico v England Switzerland or Algeria v Colombia or Ghana Argentina or Cabo Verde v Australia or Egypt If Spain beat Portugal or Croatia in the last 16 they will face the winners of the tie between USA & Belgium. The co-hosts have enjoyed a strong tournament so far but will be without Folarin Balogun against Belgium after he was sent off in their win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Which last 16 tie are you looking forward to most at World Cup? Share your thoughts and tell us your latest World Cup predictions in the comments below!

Mikel Oyarzabal at the double as Spain beat Austria and cruise into last 16

The group stage is something you have to do but the World Cup starts here, Lamine Yamal had insisted, and down on the Pacific that was how it played out. It wasn’t just that Spain defeated Austria to reach the last 16 against Portugal or Croatia, their first victory at the knockout stage since they were champions in 2010; it was that on an enjoyable sunny afternoon they were Spain again. Two goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and another from Pedro Porro completed a 3-0 win that was as recognisably theirs as their coach had requested beforehand. “Almost perfect,” Luis de la Fuente called it afterwards. For the fourth consecutive game Spain kept a clean sheet, Unai Simón breaking Iker Casillas’s 2010 title-winning record while Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte confirmed their status as the centre-back partnership of the tournament so far, but what really stood out was what was happening either side and in front of them. Continue reading...

Spain 3-0 Austria, World Cup 2026: La Roja advance to Round of 16 with dominant win

Photo by Frederic J. Brown / AFP via Getty Images Spain have won their first World Cup knockout game since the 2010 Final and guaranteed safe passage to this year’s Round of 16 thanks to a comprehensive 3-0 win against Austria in Los Angeles on Thursday afternoon. La Roja saved their best performance of the tournament for the most decisive moment, playing a brilliant team game and brushing Austria aside with remarkable ease. Reactions & Observations For all the legitimate concerns about Spain after a poor group stage, their performance today shows why they were such strong pre-tournament favorites: La Roja truly dominated from start to finish and were better in every phase of the game. Spain easily broke Austria’s famous high press with great passing and movement, dominated midfield and were ruthless up front, and finally looked like a real candidate to win it all. Lamine Yamal was sensational in the first half, giving Konrad Laimer nightmares with one crazy nutmeg after another, and he deserved a goal but could not find the net. His second half was far more quiet, and he was clearly tired after the first 60 minutes. But his fitness levels are clearly improving, and he looks better and better as the tournament goes on. Every Barça player who started was very good, with Dani Olmo continuing his excellent tournament and showing why he deserves to remain a starter for the rest of the World Cup. But two Blaugrana stars stood out: Pau Cubarsí was simply spectacular both defensively and as a passer from the back, and Pedri had without a doubt his best game in the tournament, playing the exact role he does at Barça and absolutely dominating the middle of the park. But this was truly a collective show from Spain: every player in the starting XI was a 7 out of 10 or better, with special mentions to both full-backs, Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella, and Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored two more goals and was fantastic with his movement and link-up play in the final third. Today’s game should end the debate about the right-back and attacking midfield positions: Porro is clearly a better fit for Spain’s style and system than Marcos Llorente, and Dani Olmo’s form is far superior to Mikel Merino. Spain have finally found their best version and their best lineup, and they look ready for what could be an epic Round of 16 clash with Portugal.

Spain v Austria: World Cup 2026 last 32 – live

⚽️ Kick-off time: 12pm local/3pm EDT/8pm BST/5am AEST ⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology | The full draw | Golden Boot 1 min Lamine Yamal works Alexander Schlager inside the first minute with a low shot from 20 yards after a sharp Spain break. 1 min And they’re off. Continue reading...

Spain vs Austria, World Cup 2026: Match Thread, Live Updates

Photo by Juan Luis Diaz/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images WELCOME TO SoFi STADIUM!!! The spectacular home of the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams and Chargers is the site of a huge World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash between Spain and Austria as Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Co. face a brutal opponent as they look for a place in the Round of 16. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos! LINEUPS SPAIN Starting XI: Simón; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Raya (GK), Joan (GK), Pubill, Grimaldo, Eric, Llorente, Merino, Fabián, Gavi, Zubimendi, Ferran, Pino, Williams, Iglesias, Muñoz AUSTRIA Starting XI: Schlager; Posch, Danso, Alaba, Laimer; Seiwald, Schlager; Schmid, Wanner, Sabitzer; Gregoritsch (4-2-3-1) Substitutes: Wiegele (GK), Pentz (GK), Affengruber, Lienhart, Mwene, Friedl, Svoboda, Grillitsch, Chukwuemeka, Ljubicic, Prass, Schoepf, Arnautovic, Kalajdzic, Wimmer MATCH INFO Competition/Round: 2026 World Cup, Round of 32 Date/Time: Thursday, July 2, 2026, 3pm ET, 12pm PT (USA), 9pm CET (Barcelona), 8pm BST/WAT (UK & Nigeria), 12.30am IST (India, Friday) Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, United States Referee: Glenn Nyberg (SWE) HOW TO WATCH On TV: FOX (USA), BBC One (UK), United8 Sports 1 (India), SuperSport (Nigeria), TVE La 1 (Spain), others Online: FuboTV (USA), BBC iPlayer (UK), ZEE5 (India), DAZN (Spain), others Matchday Thread Rules We don’t have a lot of rules here, but there are a few things to keep in mind when joining our matchday threads: Even if the referee sucks or we lose the game, watch the swearing. It’s just unnecessary. Also, don’t discuss illegal streaming links. Those who do it will be warned, and those who post links will be instantly banned. Finally, be nice to each other. This is a Barcelona community and we don’t need to offend one another. Have fun with the game! Forever and ever, no matter the competition, VISCA EL BARÇA!

Austria boss outlines plan to stop Lamine Yamal ahead of Spain clash at World Cup 2026

Spain's forward #19 Lamine Yamal takes part in an MD-1 training session at Carson Sports Park in Carson on July 1, 2026, on the eve of the 2026 World Cup round of 32 football match between Spain and Austria. (Photo by Frederic J. Brown / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Austria boss Ralf Rangnick says his team want to make sure Lamine Yamal sees as little of the ball as possible during Thursday’s last 32 clash with Spain at World Cup 2026. Yamal is expected to start the match for Luis de la Fuente’s side after recovering from his hamstring injury and will be expected to provide plenty of attacking inspiration. Rangnick was full of praise for Yamal before the game but made it clear his players are well aware of the threat he offers. “He is an excellent player, and he will be for the next 12, 13, 14 years or even longer if he stays healthy and keeps a good head on his shoulders,” he told reporters. “If you look at [Lionel] Messi, you can see he could play a lot of matches. He’s one of the players we’ll watch very closely tomorrow. We’ll try not to give him space when he starts dribbling. He’s a player all fans love to watch, but it’s our task to make sure he has the ball as little as possible.” Austria have come in for criticism during hte tournament but Rangnick thinks his team are doing OK. “Well, we’re at the end of a very long season, and the fatigue is noticeable; it’s a factor that doesn’t depend solely on us. We’ve been working here for a month and we want to continue for a few more days,” he added. “But I think we haven’t been too bad. We finished second in our group, we scored six goals, we celebrated with a party in the locker room… We’ll see what happens. “We’re not going to play against the Spain of 2008 or 2010, so… I find it interesting to think that this is the first match we’ve played against a European team in the World Cup. We’ve seen that there have been some surprises.” The winner of the tie between the two sides will go on to play Portugal or Croatia in the last 16.