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...

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.

Makelele Names Tchouaméni Madrid’s Best and Pinpoints Mourinho’s Key Signing

Claude Makelele tells DAZN that Tchouaméni was Madrid's most consistent player and identifies the line-breaking midfielder Mourinho must sign to unlock Mbappé. The post Makelele Names Tchouaméni Madrid’s Best and Pinpoints Mourinho’s Key Signing appeared first on Football España.

Vinicius, Real Madrid will negotiate contract extension later this month -report

Vinicius Junior will meet with Real Madrid’s board in late July to keep negotiating a contract extension, according to a report published on AS. The Brazilian attacker is set to become a free agent and will be able to sign a deal with other clubs on January 1st if the two parts can’t reach an agreement. Vinicius wants a significant salary raise and he rejected Real Madrid’s last offer. Still, it looks like he wants to stay in the club and sources inside the club appear to be optimistic about the upcoming negotiations, per that same report. Leadership appears to be breathing a collective sigh of relief following recent messages. A transfer of the Brazilian was never under consideration, with the focus instead on finalizing a contract extension. Source. Diario AS Odds of Vinicius signing this extension seem high, although the same was said a few months ago and the two parts couldn’t reach an agreement.

Football Daily | Belgium and the End Of The Golden Generation Klaxon

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! Look at it up there on the hill, shining in the sunlight, an almost imperceptible aura of melancholia surrounding it like a halo. Look at the ornate carvings, the faces etched across its flanks. There’s Davor Suker! Preben Elkjær! Ferenc Puskas! Is that … it is! It’s Danny Mills, his face almost entirely worn away by the years of tourists rubbing it for luck. Yes, it’s the End Of The Golden Generation Klaxon and it’s sounding its low mournful drone across the California plains as Belgium’s best depart following their quarter-final loss to Spain in Los Angeles. Though in truth it has been whining in the background for a while now. The Red Devils’ real recent high point was probably all the way back in 2018 when peak De Bruyne, Lukaku and Courtois were joined by Alderweireld, Vermaelen, Kompany, Vertonghen, Fellaini, Hazard, Carrasco, you know, Mertens, Dembélé … Sessions. But there was no escaping the symbolism of the botched torch pass – a tearful Courtois heading off with an injury in the second half at SoFi Stadium, his replacement Senne Lammens fluffling his lines and handing Mikel Merino Spain’s winner on a plate. “I gave him a big hug. He’s a great goalkeeper. You only get stronger from this,” Courtois said of his hapless teammate. “Eventually you cannot say much more to him or give him much more advice. He is a strong guy, strong personality. I’m sure he’ll be fine. You know, he will have some holidays and then regroup in Manchester and have a great season.” Belgium – who were further hamstrung by the loss of their captain, Youri Tielemans, to knack in the warm-up – have a rebuilding job to do, although those waters are slightly muddied by reports suggesting Courtois fancies an unhelpful year off from the international game before returning for the Euro 2028 qualifiers. Spain, meanwhile, can look forward (if that is the right phrase) to a semi-final meeting with France. “They’ll be just as worried as we are,” roared Luis de la Fuente, perhaps slightly being stitched up in translation. I can only hope that when Jürgen Klopp flew Team Mbappé around for what turned out to be no good reason, he at least booked the flight on Trivago” – Scott Pratt. As the Bayeux Tapestry was being unloaded at the British Museum in the dead of night I couldn’t help thinking ‘it’s coming home.’ An omen perhaps? 1,000 years of hurt?” – Allastair McGillivray. This is an extract from our daily football email … Football Daily. To get the full version, just visit this page and follow the instructions. Continue reading...

Courtois Backs Real Madrid’s New Era: ‘Now It’s Up To Us’

Thibaut Courtois has publicly endorsed Real Madrid's summer overhaul, urging collective responsibility as the club enters a new era with fresh signings and a new manager. The post Courtois Backs Real Madrid’s New Era: ‘Now It’s Up To Us’ appeared first on Football España.

Real Madrid Tie Down Tchouaméni to 2031 With Mourinho’s Backing

Aurélien Tchouaméni has committed his future to Real Madrid until 2031, with Mourinho's arrival credited as a key factor in sealing the renewal. The post Real Madrid Tie Down Tchouaméni to 2031 With Mourinho’s Backing appeared first on Football España.

Hey Jude: Bellingham's return to England indispensability

Senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel charts Jude Bellingham's remarkable resurgence with England at the World Cup.

Claude Makelele backs Tchouaméni, defends Mbappé, and outlines what Real Madrid still need

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 4: Claude Makelele is interviewed before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 16 match between Paraguay and France at Philadelphia Stadium on July 4, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images) | ISI Photos via Getty Images Former Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele has shared his thoughts on several of the club’s biggest talking points in an interview with DAZN, praising Aurélien Tchouaméni’s performances, defending Kylian Mbappé from criticism, and identifying the type of midfielder he believes Los Blancos are still missing. Asked about Real Madrid’s recent campaign, Makelele singled out Tchouaméni as the team’s most reliable performer and defending the club’s decision to extend his contract. “Tchouameni was the only consistent player from beginning to end.” The French legend also expressed confidence in José Mourinho’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu, while stressing that even one of football’s elite coaches will need the right squad to challenge for domestic honors. “Mourinho isn’t stupid, he’s a good coach, one of the best coaches. He knows he’s going to need a strong team to win La Liga.” Makelele also came to the defense of Mbappé, arguing that the French forward has been unfairly criticized and reminding observers of a striker’s natural mentality. “I don’t agree (with the Mbappe criticism). A lot of people are criticizing Mbappé. He’s for the team, but he’s a striker. A striker always wants to score.” The former midfielder believes Real Madrid’s biggest tactical need lies in the center of the pitch, pointing to the absence of a player capable of carrying the ball through midfield and accelerating attacks. “At Real Madrid, there isn’t that type of midfielder who carries the ball and breaks lines. They need a player like that, who can deliver quick passes to the attackers, to himself, to Vinicius Junior, and to the players up front.” He also suggested that Mbappé has occasionally been forced to drop too deep in search of possession, reducing his effectiveness in the penalty area. “Mbappe often comes to collect the ball in midfield, and who’s going to be up front? When he’s up front, he’s scoring.”

Thibaut Courtois suffers injury in Belgium’s World Cup defeat to Spain

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JULY 10: Thibaut Courtois #1 of Belgium reacts with medical staff after being substituted 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 Luke Hales/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with a hamstring injury during Belgium’s World Cup quarterfinal defeat to Spain, raising fresh concerns for both club and country. Courtois had been one of Belgium’s standout performers at SoFi Stadium, producing several important saves to keep his side in the contest before his night came to a premature end in the 72nd minute. The Madrid shot-stopper left the pitch visibly emotional after attempting to play through the injury. The problem first emerged just after the hour mark when Courtois went down following a routine play. After receiving treatment during a hydration break, he initially signaled that he was able to continue. However, only a few minutes later, the discomfort worsened, forcing Belgium to replace him with Senne Lammens. Speaking after the match, Courtois explained how the injury developed. “It was a bit of a pain, but oh well. On a long ball, I felt something, I thought my hamstring was tight because I’d played 30 long balls. I felt it a little on some saves, and on another long ball, I felt it getting worse. I sat down for a moment so the doctor could check it out, and I wanted to keep playing, but I couldn’t hit the ball, and the manager told me that if I wasn’t 100%, he’d substitute me. I said I felt bad, that I couldn’t play long balls, but I wanted to continue to see how it went. If I didn’t have to play long balls, I could continue, but it’s fine. If the manager wants someone who’s 100%, it’s no big deal.” The injury is an unwelcome development for Real Madrid, particularly given Courtois’ recent history with muscle problems. The Belgian had only recently put a right quadriceps injury behind him after returning to action in May and had enjoyed an injury-free run until Friday’s setback. Courtois also suggested he could take a step back from international duty after the World Cup, leaving the door open to a temporary break from Belgium. “Regarding my future with the national team, we’ll see. I’d perhaps like to take a break from the Nations League, as it’s not the most important thing. And maybe return for the Euro qualifiers. But ultimately, it’s a decision the federation has to make. If not, then perhaps today was my last match.” Reflecting on Belgium’s elimination, Courtois felt his performance had given his team every chance to remain in the game. “It’s bad luck that the rebound went to Fabián. In the second half they had more chances. I felt good about the saves, the balls over the top, Lamine’s crosses. I felt it was going to be very difficult to score a second goal against me.” He also came to the defense of substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens after his costly error led to Mikel Merino’s goal, urging supporters not to blame his teammate. “It’s true that the pitch is very dry, it’s bad luck, in the end that’s football, you shouldn’t crucify the guy, he’s a great goalkeeper, he’s had a great season at United and he doesn’t deserve this.” Real Madrid will now await the results of further medical assessments to determine the severity of Courtois’ injury, hoping the issue proves to be only a minor setback ahead of the new season.

Thiago Pitarch focused on Real Madrid future after breakthrough year

DENBIGH, WALES - JULY 04: Thiago Pitarch of Spain during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship 2026 match between Spain and Germany on July 04, 2026 in Denbigh, Wales. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid midfielder Thiago Pitarch has reflected on his rapid rise through the club’s ranks, his experiences training alongside the first team, and his ambitions for the future in an interview with AS. After progressing from Juvenil A to Castilla and earning opportunities to train with the senior squad, Pitarch said he has tried to remain grounded throughout his development. “I started with the Juvenil A team and thought, ‘I’ll see how it goes.’ Then I started playing well with Castilla and later I began training with the first team. I’ve taken it all very calmly. I still surround myself with the same people. The only thing that matters to me is enjoying playing football.” The midfielder admitted that adapting to the level at Real Madrid is a challenge, but believes every opportunity is a chance to grow. “At Real Madrid, the best players in the world play, and you have to adapt. The important thing there was to enjoy every match and learn a lot from them because you never know when it might be your last.” Pitarch also praised coach Álvaro Arbeloa and national team coach Gallardo for the confidence they have shown in him. “I have a very good relationship with both Arbeloa and Gallardo. They’ve given me all the confidence they could, and I try to repay that on the field. It’s very important for a player to have so much confidence in his coaches.” Asked about speculation surrounding his future under José Mourinho, Pitarch insisted his attention remains solely on Spain’s upcoming European Championship final. “Mourinho has not contacted me yet. I’m focused on the European Championship final and that’s all I’m thinking about. We’ll see what happens after that.” Although he has received messages of support from Real Madrid, he revealed he is trying not to be distracted. “I’ve spoken to several people at the club who wished me luck in the final, but honestly, I’m not really checking my phone. I’m really enjoying the experience with my teammates because you never know when you’ll get another chance like this.” Despite acknowledging the fierce competition for places at the Santiago Bernabéu, Pitarch believes the academy continues to prepare players to step up whenever they are called upon. “The best players in the world play for Real Madrid, which makes it harder to break into the first team, but we’re proving that when we get the chance, we’re ready. That’s why they train us in the youth academy, to help the first team.” The 18-year-old also named the midfielders who have inspired his game, highlighting two club legends as well as one current Madrid star. “I’ve always admired quality midfielders like Kroos and Modric, and the midfielders of Iniesta’s Spain. Now I really like Bellingham.” Training alongside Real Madrid’s biggest names was initially overwhelming, he admitted, before becoming part of his daily routine. “The first few days with the Real Madrid stars are a bit dazzling; it feels like you’re wearing virtual reality glasses. But little by little you get used to it and it becomes second nature.” Pitarch reserved special praise for the first-team players who welcomed him, singling out several Spaniards and particularly Brahim Díaz. “Everyone, I have no complaints about anyone. They’re all exceptional teammates. In the first few days, the Spaniards like Carvajal, Brahim, and Carreras were very attentive. Brahim helped me a lot from day one, and he’s a teammate I talk to quite often.” Looking ahead, the midfielder’s objectives are clear: stay healthy, continue playing at the highest level, and keep competing in Europe’s biggest competition. “My priority is to avoid injury. I also want to continue enjoying playing football in the top division and, if possible, keep playing in the Champions League.”

Real Madrid to receive €10 million as Mario Gila completes AC Milan move

MILAN, ITALY - JULY 10: (Editor's note: image has been retouched) AC Milan new signing Mario Gila signs his contract with the club at Casa Milan on July 10, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Giuseppe Cottini/AC Milan via Getty Images) | AC Milan via Getty Images Real Madrid are set to receive a financial boost following Mario Gila’s permanent transfer from Lazio to AC Milan. The Rossoneri officially announced the signing of the Spanish center-back, who has put pen to paper on a five-year contract running until June 2031. According to reports from Italy, Gila will earn around €4.5 million per season with his new club. While Gila never made a competitive first-team appearance for Real Madrid, the club negotiated a valuable sell-on clause when he joined Lazio in the summer of 2022. That clause entitled Madrid to 50 percent of the fixed transfer fee from any future sale. Negotiations between Milan and Lazio were not entirely straightforward. Lazio reportedly turned down an initial offer worth €25 million plus €2 million in bonuses before eventually agreeing to a deal valued at €28 million. As a result of the agreement between Real Madrid and Lazio, Los Blancos are expected to receive approximately €10 million from the transfer. The move had been in the works for some time, with Milan identifying Gila as a defensive target before the club’s recent managerial changes. The 25-year-old quickly agreed to personal terms, effectively ending interest from other Serie A sides including Napoli and Atalanta. Gila arrived in Milan on Thursday after saying his goodbyes to teammates and staff at Lazio’s training ground in Formello. He completed his medical examinations on Friday before officially signing his contract and is expected to join Milan’s preseason preparations, which begin on July 13. For Real Madrid, Gila’s transfer represents another example of the club benefiting financially from the strategic clauses it has included in deals involving former academy graduates, adding another €10 million to the club’s coffers without having to sell a current first-team player.

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.

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...

Football's best bromance: Why Bellingham and Haaland break the mould

The two players have won an army of admirers from social media clips for their honesty in interviews.

OPEN THREAD | JULY 10, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho FRANCE Another world cup semi final. 3 semi’s in a row. whomever will take over from deschamps has an uphill battle to climb. BELGIUM I’m hoping they progress today ARGENTINA I’ll reserve my comments on them

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...

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

Real Madrid to face Fiorentina on August 1st

Real Madrid have published a statement on their website announcing that they will face Fiorentina on August 1st in what will be one of the team’s preseason games. Real Madrid will play a friendly match against Fiorentina on Saturday, August 1, at 6:00 pm CEST. The match will take place at the Wörthersee Stadion in Klagenfurt (Austria), a stadium with a capacity for 30,000 spectators and home to SK Austria Klagenfurt. Real Madrid has already visited this Austrian city, located in the southern part of the country near the border with Slovenia, during the 2021 preseason to face Milan. The team returns to Austria a year after defeating WSG Tirol in Innsbruck last summer in another friendly. Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, July 15. Source: Realmadrid.com Los Blancos will also face Deportivo La Coruña on August 12th, and they should be announcing a few more preseason games shortly.

Football Daily | Mbappé and France are on the march. Who’s going to stop them?

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! Marchons, marchons. Fans of France’s remaining rivals at the Geopolitics World Cup – and lovers of business-end big tournament jeopardy – were left sorely disappointed as the favourites steamrolled Morocco. Didier Deschamps’ cohort of strutting roosters had their feathers ruffled by Paraguay’s spectacular heel turn in the last 16, but were largely back in cruise control for their 2-0 quarter-final victory in (a venue near) Boston on Thursday. With the wealth of signings (Cerci, Stanway, Reuteler) already this summer, I wasn’t expecting any more. But then Arsenal follow in Hollywood’s footsteps and get Ona Batlle after another!” – James Vortkamp-Tong. Please don’t refer to the USA USA USA as ‘Trump’s boys’ (yesterday’s Football Daily). From what I understand, they are sane, good sportsmen, well-liked, and a team to be proud of, quite unlike the person in question” – James Driskell. A fellow reader of the France v Morocco MBM commented on how inevitable France look at the moment. This made me wonder, could this team go down in history as Les Inévitables?” – Peter Oh. That was a rather touching last line reference to Bonnie Tyler (yesterday’s Football Daily, full email edition). One would like to read a story about the England team – average year of birth around 1998 – playing her classic tune in the locker room and singing along. Until they got to the hooky lyric, ‘Every now and then, I fall apart’. Good luck on Saturday, lads!’ – Mike Wilner. This is an extract from our daily football email … Football Daily. To get the full version, just visit this page and follow the instructions. Continue reading...

Mourinho speaks in first interview since signing for Real Madrid

After completing his first morning session at the club’s Valdebebas training ground, José Mourinho, the newly appointed Real Madrid manager, visited the club’s television network for his first official interview since taking charge. “Words are not enough because this feels like a mission. It’s not about worrying about myself or whether I’ll win a lot or a little. I’m here to help everyone become better: players, staff… Creating a culture of work, responsibility, ambition, and something I know well—responsibility and the honor of working for Real Madrid. I really like this concept. It’s not about working at Real Madrid; it’s about working for Real Madrid. And it’s with this mission-driven spirit that I am here,” said Mourinho. The Portuguese coach revealed his plan for the 2026-27 pre-season stage. “Taking advantage of the next two weeks with positivity because, obviously, I would like to have all the players here. You have to look at it positively—it’s about getting to know the boys I’ll be working with and giving them the opportunity to get to know me. During the preseason, many of these boys will be here with Castilla, and I also enjoy participating and helping in the growth of this area. Here we are, and some world champion will join us. With great confidence, with a strong feeling that I love this club, and ¡Hala Madrid y nada más!” he added. Mourinho also said that he has been working with the front office for quite some time. “We are working a lot. It’s not like I arrived here today and everything starts now. We’ve been working hard for a long time with the club’s structure at different levels. Today, you can work without being physically present because technology helps us a lot, and today has basically been about arriving and ‘checking’ everything that has been done and what we still need to do,“ he concluded.

Liverpool latest: Klopp lifts lid on failed Mbappe pursuit

Khedira set to be Mourinho’s assistant coach at Real Madrid

Former Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira is set to join José Mourinho’s coaching staff as an assistant ahead of the upcoming season, club sources told Managing Madrid. The former German international was spotted in Madrid on Thursday alongside several of Mourinho’s longtime staff members. Mourinho signed Khedira in the summer of 2010 and the German player was a crucial starter during The Special One’s three-year tenure in the Spanish capital. Khedira has no coaching experience and spent some years as a commentator after retiring as a player in 2021. Having an assistant coach who knows the club has always been important for Mourinho. Former Real Madrid defender Aitor Karanka was his assistant during his years at Real Madrid and now Khedira will be the one taking over that role.

France’s attacking evolution under Didier Deschamps passes latest Morocco test | Raphaël Jucobin

With the head coach having released the handbrake, his side were far superior compared with four years ago in Qatar against the same opponents The scorelines may have been exactly the same, but the stylistic gulf in France’s two World Cup knockout performances against Morocco could not have been greater. In the space of just a single tournament cycle, Didier Deschamps has embraced a vastly different style, one based on a freeform attacking line. As a one-two punch from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé sent the team into this year’s semi-finals, the 57-year-old’s tactical reinvention was once again vindicated. Continue reading...

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 mirrors Messi magic as World Cup's greatest storyline rolls on

This summer's World Cup has been one of the most fascinating on the pitch in recent memory. Not because of the teams. Because of two men.

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.

Klopp reveals how Liverpool tried to sign Mbappe

Jurgen Klopp says he "flew around in a circle" in a private plane with Kylian Mbappe and his family when he tried to sign him for Liverpool a decade ago.

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...

Mbappé misses penalty, scores, assists and gets injured as France beat Morocco

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JULY 09: Kylian Mbappe celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 09, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images) | Getty Images The headlines in Boston surrounded Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé as he took his World Cup 2026 goal tally to eight goals as he scored France’s first goal in a 2-0 against Morocco just before the hour mark in a hard fought quarter-final with limited chances for either side. The French captain had enjoyed the best chance for his side as he stepped up to take a spot-kick win by the number 10 in the first half. Mbappé went down early after a diving challenge from Manchester United’s Noussair Mazrsoui. A three-and-a-half minute VAR review followed, with Mbappé made to wait before stepping up. His penalty was then saved by Yassine Bounou, previously of Atlético Madrid and Sevilla, diving down low to his left. It was Mbappé’s first penalty miss since October’s Clásico and his first for his country since June 2023. He made amends 30 minutes later as he broke the deadlock with a curling effort from the edge of the box leaving Bounou with no chance as it hit the side netting and gave France the lead. Mbappé turned provider minutes later as he teed up Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembélé to add a second for Les Bleus, again from outside the penalty box, before the second period’s hydration break. Beyond the goal involvements, Mbappé was pivotal to offensive play, creating a match-high four chances, more than any other player on the field, and missing two big chances with the penalty and a shot worth 0.45 xG from eight yards out just minutes before his goal. The 27-year-old attacker’s involvement then ended early on 77 minutes as he went down with what appeared to be a relatively minor knock to be replaced by Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta. He was then pictured with ice on his right ankle on the bench. France were without Aurélien Tchouameni, who was rested on the bench as he continues to nurse a thigh injury, and stuck with Roma’s Kouadio Koné in midfield. New Real Madrid signing Ibrahima Konaté was also an unused substitute. Didier Deschamps’ side will now face the winner of Spain’s quarter-final against Belgium on Friday in a semi-final match-up to be played in Dallas on Tuesday.

'Absolute perfection!' Mbappe fires France ahead against Morocco

All the angles of Kylian Mbappe's opener for France against Morocco in the 2026 World Cup.

Mbappe penalty SAVED with Morocco holding on vs France LIVE!

Managing Madrid Podcast: Wild Argentina Discourse; Fede / Arda Fit Next Season. MAILBAG!

On this Members-only episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Lucas Navarrete discuss: Argentina vs Egypt discourse — a full reflection on what’s been happenning When is Jose Mourinho’s first press conference? If we had a blank check to sign any CB in the world, who would it be? How will Fede Valverde and Arda Güler fit into next season’s lineup A reflection on Zinedine Zidane’s headbutt and the dominoes from it. Pedro Martinez appointment. What’s the football equivalent?  And more. CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS Thanks for being a Member. We hope you enjoy the show! 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) Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM)

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.

INTO THE VOID | OPEN THREAD | JULY 9, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho ADDRESS THE STATE This world cup has given us everything, the good, the bad and now the ugly. I believe, though i have not proof, that this match against Morocco will be a statement game for France. Due to the very vile, ugly and racist statements of the government official from Paraguay. If Mbappe is exactly who we know he is, he’ll look to send a stronger message in this game by his performance. The last thing Morocco needed is an angry and charged up Mbappe/France playing against them. It’s time for the commander to come out!!!!!!!!! UNLEEASSSHHHH THE COOMANNNDDEEERRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! STRIKER? Is the Alvarez deal still on?, behind the scenes? because we still need a striker who can also play on the wings when needed in game IMO. AFTER TODAY One or more of our players is coming home. Lets see the outcome of the France/Morocco match. It’s most likely going to be brahim that comes home, unless there’s a huge upset. Brahim’s stock is very high also. wink wink

France national team uses ICE deportation planes for World Cup travel

The plane that French team used after match with Paraguay flew 44 deportation-related flights this year alone The French men’s national soccer team, whose star Kylian Mbappé is one of the world’s most outspoken athletes against far-right politicians, has been using a charter airplane company that is at the heart of the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign. Images of the team posted on social media and flight tracking data show the French team have used Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX) for at least three domestic flights between their World Cup games and base camp in Boston. That same airline charter company has operated more than half of ICE’s removal flights in 2024 and 2025. Continue reading...

Tchouameni signs contract extension with Real Madrid until 2031 -report

Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has signed a contract extension with the club, one which will keep him in the Spanish capital until the summer of 2031, according to reports from the Spanish press and Fabrizio Romano. The deal will likely be official after the World Cup. Tchouameni’s previous deal was set to expire in the summer of 2028, so Real Madrid wanted to reach this agreement this year. The French player bounced back from two difficult debut seasons and actually became a crucial player for the club last year, earning a spot as an undisputed starter in Real Madrid’s midfield line. Los Blancos will now want to extend other players, according to Fabrizio Romano. Most of the attention will go to Vinicius Junior, who hasn’t signed an extension yet and will be free to negotiate with other clubs in January 1st, 2027.

Managing Madrid Podcast: Was Bernardo Silva Actually A Good Signing? Analyzing Real Madrid’s Transfer Window.

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Don Amancio discuss: World Cup parity Argentina’s path to the final Multiple countries hosting World Cups. Thoughts? Incredible Harry Kane and Michael Olise stats Will Didier Deschamps be a future Real Madrid manager? Olise’s potential fit with Real Madrid The Vinicius contract renewal What’s the market for Vini? The benefit of Konate Was Bernardo Silva a good signing? Was the Nico Paz deal actually good for Real Madrid? Fran Garcia’s sale Cucurella And more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively over on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. Managing Madrid is a hub for all Madridistas with updated news, op-eds, tactical analyses, artwork, and of course, podcasts. It also serves as a means for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Real Madrid⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ fans to connect and discuss the team. We would like your support so that we can continue to produce podcasts for you. 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) Don Amancio (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@DonShelby__⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

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

ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM | OPEN THREAD | JULY 8, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho THE ELEPHANT Now that brazil’s world cup is over, we can finally put an end to the vini contract saga. I’ve said it before and i’ll say it again, it’s best Vini leaves to a club that will make him the main man. Becasue that’s how he excels, when he’s given the most freedom of expression. Something he no longer has here With an elephant like Mbappe now at our club. The only way forward for him to still remain at this club is if he accepts a different role with more restraints, same goes for Jude. Otherwise, him trying to shine whilst Mbappe and Jude are also trying to shine will not work for the overall team. THE CALF What will the shape of the team look like being clearly led by Mbappe?. I for one, don’t want a team led by Mbappe, Jude and Vini at the same time. 3 superstars gunning for personal glory, that’s a recipe for a 3rd trophy-less season. There should only ever be one main man. BLOWING LEADS African teams blowing leads go hand in hand. I dont have faith in morrocco, i frankly dont like them even though they’re the best on the continent so far. OUR ONLY HOPE France.

Why Kane is safe from missing World Cup semi... but Bellingham is NOT

Sky Sports' Dave Reed explains which FOUR England players need to watch their step in the World Cup quarter-final against Norway and why one of them is NOT captain Harry Kane.

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...

Betis, Real Madrid reach €4 million agreement for Fran García -report

Real Madrid and Betis have finalized the details over Fran García’s transfer to the Andalusian club and the Spanish left-back has also agreed to this move, which will be official very soon according to a report from Fabrizio Romano. Real Madrid will keep a 50% sell-on clause, per that same report. García made his return to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023 having just completed a very impressive season for Rayo Vallecano. He never established himself as a starter and barely got minutes under coaches Carlo Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso or Álvaro Arbeloa. García will turn 27 years old this summer, so it is unlikely that he makes significant progress as a player away from Real Madrid. Still, he has the quality to be an important player for Betis, so he should stay in LaLiga for many years to come.

Statesman, comedian and dealer of hard truths: how Kylian Mbappé became the king of this World Cup

The Frenchman is a footballer, flautist and a thespian. There’s no question he is the most thrilling and compelling figure at this year’s tournament This has been the World Cup of characters, bold fashion statements, and bantz: we’ve had Thomas Tuchel rubber-banding around the England dressing room like a teen at his first all-ages rave, and Iván Barton booting Miguel Almirón from the field as if sentencing him to death. Mauricio Pochettino and his $500 overshirt have brought fresh energy and inspiration to the wardrobes of convex middle-aged men the world over. Jokester Javier Aguirre’s avuncular “fuck you” at Anthony Gordon has pushed bilateral relations between Mexico and England to their warmest point since the British-brokered peace that ended the Pastry War of 1839. Erling Haaland has shown it’s possible to be Jaws in front of goal and Scooby Doo once the ball is in the back of the net, that there’s nothing about football so important that it can’t make way for some silly bit of online comedy. Even Harry Kane, a man who often seems like he was media trained in the womb, has squeaked thrillingly, if briefly, to life. Continue reading...

OFFICIAL: Real Madrid reject comments by Paraguayan senator against Mbappé

Real Madrid have published an official statement rejecting the comments made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla against their star Kylian Mbappé. Real Madrid C. F. wishes to express its strongest rejection of the regrettable racist and xenophobic remarks made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla against our player Kylian Mbappé. Our club firmly condemns such statements, which are unbecoming of a political representative, and expresses its full support for our player Kylian Mbappé, who serves as a role model for millions of people, especially children around the world. These behaviors that incite hatred should have no place in society. Football and sports are platforms for equality and solidarity, and Real Madrid will continue to work to ensure that racism, xenophobia, and violence are eradicated forever. Mbappé and the French national team will face Morocco in the FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals this Thursday.

Benitez refuses to rule out Scotland interest - gossip

Rangers linked with midfielders in Norway and Serbia and would former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager be interested in Scotland job?

‘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!

Shades of Keane and Gerrard in Bellingham display - Rooney

Wayne Rooney believes Jude Bellingham's performance against Mexico ranks alongside iconic Steven Gerrard and Roy Keane displays

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

Real Madrid to earn around €15 million after Mario Gila’s move to Milan

Real Madrid academy product Mario Gila is set to sign for AC Milan as Lazio and the rossoneri have already finalized an agreement for the player’s transfer. Milan will pay the Rome-based side €30 million, half of which will go directly to Real Madrid. Real Madrid has brought in a substantial amount of money this summer transfer window through the sales of several academy products. The Spanish club have already earned €60 million from Nico Paz’s transfer to Como, €20 million for Víctor Muñoz, who moved from Osasuna to Liverpool, €12.5 million from Álvaro Rodríguez’s transfer from Elche to Bournemouth and €3.5 million for Mario Martín’s move to Getafe. Real Madrid originally transferred Mario Gila to Lazio in 2022, with the Italian club paying €6 million for 50% of his rights. Los Blancos kept the remaining 50%.

Jorge Andrade backs José Mourinho to thrive in Real Madrid return: “He’s a star”

Deportivo Coruna's Portuguese Jorge Andrade (L) fights for the ball with Real Madrid's Brazilian Ronaldo, during the Spanish first league football match at Riazor stadium, in Coruna, 01 May 2004. AFP Photo / Miguel RIOPA (Photo credit should read MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Former Deportivo La Coruña defender Jorge Andrade has thrown his support behind José Mourinho ahead of the Portuguese manager’s return to Real Madrid, praising his influence on coaches and expressing confidence that his second spell at the Santiago Bernabéu will be even more successful than the first. Speaking in an interview with Marca, Andrade described Mourinho as a coaching icon whose impact extends far beyond the trophies he has won. “José Mourinho is a star. He’s our mentor as a coach. He’s given a lot of inspiration to those of us starting out as coaches. Everything he does, his composure, how he interacts with the press, with the fans… It was a triumph for Florentino in his campaign to win the elections.” Andrade believes Mourinho’s experience has only grown since his first stint in Madrid and feels the current circumstances provide the perfect environment for him to reshape the squad after a disappointing campaign. “Mourinho’s second spell at Real Madrid.. It’s a great opportunity. He’s a much more experienced coach now, and he’s going to enjoy it much more than when he first went to Real Madrid. I think he has a golden opportunity to make a lot of changes to the team, since Madrid didn’t win anything last year.” The former Portugal international also highlighted Kylian Mbappé as one of the players Mourinho will be eager to maximize, pointing to the forward’s performances for France at the 2026 World Cup. “He will surely be excited to get Mbappé to do the same things he is doing with France in the World Cup: winning titles and achieving important goals like the Champions League, which for Real Madrid is the most important trophy.” Andrade finished by expressing his pride in seeing two of Portugal’s biggest footballing figures continue to represent the country on the global stage, while joking that he hopes Mourinho wins every match—apart from any against his beloved Deportivo. “Mourinho’s happy like a kid (to return to Real Madrid), huh? He’s a star. I wish him all the best. In Portugal, we’re lucky to have one of the best coaches in the world, like Mourinho, and to have players like Cristiano, who has been top-tier, the best, a Ballon d’Or winner who also played for Real Madrid. It’s very important for us to have them as our standard-bearers. That’s why I’m so excited about Mourinho signing again for Real Madrid and hoping he wins every game… except against Deportivo.”

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.

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

Managing Madrid Podcast: REACTION: A Terrible Portugal Are Eliminated From The World Cup. PLUS: Jude Bellingham Greatness

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani reacts to Portugal getting eliminated from the 2026 World Cup against Spain. Also: – Robert Martinez’s cowardly tactics – Jude Bellingham’s greatness – And much 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)

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.

Marc Cucurella’s Spain knock out Portugal with 90th minute winner

Portugal's midfielder #10 Bernardo Silva and Spain's defender #24 Marc Cucurella fight for the ball during the 2026 World Cup round of 16 football match between Portugal and Spain at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on July 6, 2026. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino was the late hero for Spain as La Roja waited until injury time to break the deadlock with a defence-splitting pass from Ferran Torres and a composed finish from Merino. In defence, Marc Cucurella remained an ever-present feature of this Spain side under Luis de la Fuente, with another full 90 minutes under his belt at left-back. He was tasked with the challenge of handling Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, and was required defensively to support with the handling of Cristiano Ronaldo through the middle in a game of few chances for either side. Spain boasted the best chances, accumulating 1.77 xG over 15 shots, but two thirds of those came from outside the box. Portugal defended well, and also pinned Cucurella back effectively down the left flank. Unlike in previous games, his offensive contributions were limited, with no chances created and no shots, although he did complete three of four crosses. Instead his workload came defensively, with five recoveries and seven clearances, especially amid an onslaught from Portugal late on with new Real Madrid signing Bernardo Silva in the thick of the action with a late headed chance to equalise. Spain will now face either the host nation the United States or Belgium in the quarter-final in Los Angeles on Friday. The winner would then face France or Morocco back in Dallas next Tuesday to fight for a place in the final. Defeat for Portugal means international retirement is imminent for Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo, while coach Roberto Martinez is also set to depart. Bernardo Silva, benched for this game and used as an 83rd minute substitute, may also have played his last World Cup game for his country.

Mbappe condemns racist remarks made by Paraguayan senator

Kylian Mbappe has described a Paraguayan politician as "despicable" and unworthy of her position after she made several racist remarks toward the France star.

‘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...

Mbappe condemns racist posts from Paraguay senator

France forward Kylian Mbappe condemns a Paraguayan senator as "despicable" and unworthy of her position after she made a number of racist remarks mocking his origin and education.

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...

‘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...

Jude's attitude can never be questioned again after colossal Mexico display

There aren't enough superlatives to describe what Jude Bellingham produced in the cauldron that was the Azteca.

BRUHHHZIL | OPEN THREAD | JULY 6, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho bruhhhzil Once again, this is the least talented generation of footballers in general and especially coming from Brazil. Brazilian youths leaving the country should aim for leagues like the dutch league, seria A, La Liga, Portuguese League before considering the EPL. Leagues that give them freedom of expression. The EPL is where they get turned into stale system robots. I’m going to list some components that i believe affects footballers world wide today: 1.) Football is a means to an end to a lot of players in this generation. The thing keeping many going is nothing more than contractual obligations. Some players are happy just being able to pay their bills, live a comfortable life and take care of their families, which is good. But if that is all football is to them, a way to take care of yourself, i think they can do the same with a regular 9-5 office job. They don’t really need football for that. Because as a result, we the fans, will not see many great players in this generation. These days some players keep a straight face when they miss an open goal that could’ve won their team the game. i don’t know if they do that for cameras because nobody wants to wake up tomorrow morning with a picture of themselves crying on the front pages of the tabloids, or if that’s who they really are. Nonchalant. All that “love” talk means nothing when the zeros are on the table. 2.) The lack of Ego is the fall of Pride. Remember the Messi/Ronaldo generation? we used to discuss egos and pride aaallootttt. Some of us even somehow became judges of character with players we don’t know personally. I myself for one am missing players with ambitious egos, who are gunning for the top of world football. This is also the era of “tEaM woRk mAkEs tHe drEaM wOrK”, the number one killer of individual greatness, which has given football a plethora of it’s legends. I miss players who wanted people to know their names. I miss players who wanted to restore or add glory to their nations. I miss players that long after now, they would still be associated with the sport because of their greatness and they wouldn’t go back to normal life and be forgotten. Only to be remembered in their passing. I miss players who took pride in both silencing their critics AAAND Earning the respect of their enemies. The team work system is beautiful when it wins you trophies but dreadful when you lose. There was a time where even when you were losing or lost, you made a mark on your enemies. You had that player/s on the squad that still made you excited for the next game. Now we’ve lost that, when we lose, the players of today can only leave you with rage, disbelief, depression and discontent. Even when they hit good form, you just know not to trust it completely because they can still let you down in a moments notice. 3.) Players have fewer responsibilities. We’re in a time now where everything is shared. So no one really has to give their lives on the pitch for one guy anymore. Probably due to the fact that most teams don’t have that one guy that demands your soul/life force if you want to play with him and be considered an equal alongside him. A great lack of sponsors for individual players plays a major role also. Back when players had lucrative deals from a plethora of companies, they were disciplined in their habits on/off the pitch or at least made sure that it never got to where it could destroy them. Have you noticed that not many of the “big stars” or world class players have a lot of sponsors outside their boot/shoe deals? and maybe one or two random ads they’re in????? many of them aren’t marketable despite their talents and big transfer fee and pay checks. Back then players strove to touch new heights in their own individual strides. Now, alot of the wonder kids dont get better with time, they often get forgotten. and some even find it hard to maintain consistency when at their peak. Many of them dont even have personal coaches that can guide them when they’re not playing club football. Just fewer responsibilities but more salary. I’ll stop here for today, chat to me below!

Real Madrid Basketball sign coach Pedro Martínez

Real Madrid Basketball has appointed Pedro Martínez as its new head coach, following the conclusion of Sergio Scariolo’s one-year tenure. Martínez arrives in the Spanish capital after orchestrating the most successful campaign in Valencia Basket’s history. Under his leadership, Valencia conquered its second Liga ACB championship and secured its first-ever berth in the EuroLeague Final Four. Ironically, their historic European run was halted in the semifinals by Real Madrid. “It is an honor. This is an iconic institution and a storied club. Some of the world’s finest players and coaches have been a part of its history. Evidently, it is a source of pride to join. I understand the legacy and will endeavor to give my utmost to live up to the standard of the professionals who have preceded me here,” said Martínez to Real Madrid TV. The club will be undergoing a rebuild this summer, with Trey Lyles already on his way out of the team while Mario Hezonja could also be leaving the club, according to reports.

Haaland’s father: “Everybody wants to play for Real Madrid”

Erling Haaland’s father Alfie Haaland talked to DAZN ahead of Norway’s match against Brazil in the FIFA World Cup’s Round of 16 and was asked about his son’s chances of ever playing for Real Madrid. “I don’t wanna talk much about elections at other clubs. He’s happy at City, he’s got a long contract… but any player wants to play for Real Madrid,” he said when asked about Enrique Riquelme’s promise to sign him had he been elected as the club’s president. DAZN’s Sergio Quirante insisted and Alfie Haaland didn’t mince words about whether or not his son will ever play in Spain. “Maybe, maybe… There are always opportunities in football. In Spain there are fantastic teams, there are big clubs. You never know, but right now he’s in England and he’s happy,” he added. Haaland ended up scoring two goals and leading Norway to a massive 2-1 upset over Brazil.

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.

Three Lions roar at alti-Jude! Bellingham and Kane send 10-man England to QFs after thriller

England are through to the World Cup quarter-finals after earning one of their greatest knockout results by eliminating co-hosts Mexico with a gutsy 3-2 victory in an extraordinary tie at the Azteca.

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.

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.

Ageing Brazil need major surgery - but is Ancelotti the man to do it?

There was nothing unlucky about Brazil's loss to Norway in the last 16 of the World Cup and their exit at this stage is an unmitigated disaster, writes Tim Vickery.

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)

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.

Real Madrid plot £188m Olise deal - Monday's gossip

Real Madrid are preparing a mammoth deal for Michael Olise, Tottenham exploring move for Rafael Leao, while Newcastle target Angelo Stiller, plus more.

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...

Real Madrid sign defender Dumfries from Inter Milan

Real Madrid sign Netherlands full-back Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan on a four-year deal.

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.

OFFICIAL: Real Madrid sign Dumfries

Real Madrid have announced the signing of Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries, who signs a four-year deal which will expire in the summer of 2030. Real Madrid C.F. and Inter Milan have reached an agreement for the transfer of player Denzel Dumfries, who will be linked to our club for the next four seasons, until June 30, 2030. Source: Realmadrid.com Dumfries is 30 years old and will increase the team’s depth at the right-back spot, competing with Trent Alexander-Arnold for the starting job. His contract is a long one, which is surprising given his age. Either way, he’s a reliable player who will surely play an important role over the next few years.

Manchester United target Andrey Santos but Chelsea value midfielder at £50m

Newcastle also linked with £50m-rated Brazilian Chelsea need to sell to help Xabi Alonso rebuild squad Manchester United are targeting the Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, who is valued in the region of £50m. Talks are yet to take place between the two clubs but an offer is anticipated. After missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, United were forced to look elsewhere as they seek to rebuild their midfield under Michael Carrick, with Bournemouth’s Alex Scott also of interest to the club’s hierarchy. The Brazilian is behind Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández at Stamford Bridge and the Blues need to bring in funds in order to aide new head coach Xabi Alonso’s ambitions to strengthen. Continue reading...

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...

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...

Bellingham’s Runs Behind: One Of England’s Dangerous Weapons

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 01: Jude Bellingham of England during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between England and Congo DR at Atlanta Stadium on July 01, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images Thomas Tuchel arrived at the World Cup building his England side upon wide connections. The central midfielders, fullbacks, and wingers coordinate via wide rotations, position exchanges, and channel runs. The idea revolves around generating spaces for crosses and cutbacks. According to Opta, only Canada (82) played more crosses than England (75) until the round of 32 in the World Cup. Against DR Congo, Antony Gordon’s cross toward the edge of the six-yard box was the assist that set up Harry Kane well to equalise the result, after many failed attempts to score relying on the same dynamics. One of the few offensive tools that England resorted to against DR Congo’s 4-1-4-1 low block is Bellingham’s late arrivals in the box. 13 minutes in, England looked to move the ball around DR Congo’s block toward Rashford. Meanwhile, Bellingham stealthily dashed diagonally from the right half-space toward the center, waiting to see how the events would develop: With DR Congo’s right winger and right-back dealing with their counterparts, Declan Rice drew Mukau and Moutoussamy’s attention. That opened up the left half-space for Bellingham to dart behind DR Congo’s defensive midfielder. However, Rashford opted to go backward: Three minutes in, Declan Rice and Nico O’Reilly combined down the left half-space, working the ball out to Marcus Rashford. This time, Rashford found Bellingham’s box-crashing run between the center-back and left-back with an inswinging cross. However, the goalkeeper stepped out early to catch the ball. There were times when Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham swapped positions. England’s intentions remained the same: finding situations to deliver crosses. Here, Bellingham would take advantage of the numerical parity England generated on the left. Moreover, he would capitalise on Mbemba being forced to keep his eyes on the ball, which enabled Bellingham to exploit the blindside of DR Congo’s centre-back to receive Rice’s accurate, early cross. However, Bellingham headed the ball to where the goalkeeper stood. The first minute of added time in the first half saw England work the ball from the left to the right. Around the penalty area and the far post zone, Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford distracted Chancel Mbemba and Wan-Bissaka, whereas Axel Tuanzebe focused on the ball. That allowed Bellingham to arrive late into the gap between the center-backs to head Madueke’s inswinging cross. Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, with a heroic reflex, kept his national team ahead. The moments preceding England’s second goal highlighted Bellingham’s main quality. He noticed that Wan-Bissaka maintained his concentration on Gordon, and Kane pinned the center-backs. As a result, he sneaked behind DR Congo’s left central midfielder into the gap between the right-back and center-back, providing Anderson a free option between the lines to access. Bellingham scampered forward down the channel, penetrated the box, and fired a shot into Mpasi’s body. England’s wingers, tucking in, served them well to regain the ball quickly. Gordon would carry across before feeding Harry Kane at the edge of the box. Bayern’s striker entered the box and wrapped his right foot around the ball to power it toward the root of the net, sending his national team to the round of 16. Besides his quality on the ball, Jude Bellingham’s ability to sniff out and interpret the gaps across the opposition backline is what sets him apart from the players in the same position. He proved in his first season with Real Madrid what he can produce once he spots these free pockets. And now in the 2026 World Cup, his late arrivals in the box and runs beyond the defensive lines are another alternative for Thomas Tuchel’s side to rely on for chance creation or scoring goals.

France overcome resolute Paraguay to reach quarter-final

World Cup favourites France book their quarter-final place thanks to Kylian Mbappe's second-half penalty against a stubborn Paraguay side in Philadelphia.

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.

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Mbappe scores again to send France past stubborn Paraguay

Kylian Mbappe's 70th-minute penalty gave France a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in an ill-tempered World Cup last-16 tie in Philadelphia to set up a quarter-final meeting with Morocco.

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...

Mbappe coolly fires France into lead from penalty spot

France's Kylian Mbappe keeps his cool to send Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill the wrong way to score his seventh goal of the 2026 World Cup.

Mbappé breaks the deadlock to send France past Paraguay

04 July 2026, United States, Philadelphia: Soccer, Men, 2026 World Cup, Paraguay vs. France, Knockout Stage, Round of 16, Philadelphia Stadium, Kylian Mbappé (right, France) celebrates after scoring the 0-1 goal. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with FIFA regulations, these images may be used exclusively for editorial purposes. Commercial use is prohibited. Furthermore, no video-like sequences may be created, and no alterations may be made to the image, either in the foreground or the background. Photo: Tom Weller/dpa (Photo by Tom Weller/picture alliance via Getty Images) France had captain Kylian Mbappé to thanks as he scored his seventh goal of the tournament to put the team ahead against a resilient Paraguay side who had the French team on edge until a 70th minute penalty. VAR was needed to persuade referee Ilgiz Tantashev that Désiré Doué had been tripped by Gustavo Gómez, and Mbappé sent the spot-kick to the bottom-right corner with Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gil diving the wrong way. Paraguay, ranked 41st in the world, arrived after knocking out Germany in one of the biggest shocks of the tournament in the last round, and had conceded only one goal in their last three games since conceding four against host nation the United States. They made life difficult for the French, with Mbappé not registering a single shot until a speculative effort from 30 yards went well over the bar on 64 minutes. His next effort was his first on target as he converted from the spot. The penalty was in fact only his third touch in the opposition box and he only had one more penalty box involvement with a a shot and rebound on 96 minutes. That reflected a game in which France produced 1.36 xG, their lowest xG in a competitive fixture since a 3-1 UEFA Nations League loss to Italy in September 2024 19 competitive games ago. In a heated affair, Mbappé was targeted by Paraguayan defenders, veteran Gustavo Velázquez proving to be the most physical as he swung a boot in his direction after a tackle, going unpunished. Despite the attention from his opponents, Mbappé was only awarded two free-kicks and was visibly laughing with his rough man-markers by the time the game was coming to a close in injury time. However, his goal means that France are through and he is back on level pegging with Argentina star Lionel Messi in the race for the golden boot with seven goals each. Mbappé was the only one of three Real Madrid players in the squad to start, as Didier Deschamps opted to bring in Roma’s Kouadio Koné in place of Aurélien Tchouameni in midfield as he was not risked due to a minor thigh injury. New signing Ibrahima Konaté remained on the bench, with the defender having played 14 minutes of the competition so far. France are now into the quarter-final stage, where they will face Morocco in Boston on Thursday. The winner of that game then faces a semi-final against the victor of a quarter-final which will be played between either Spain or Portugal and one of the United States or Belgium.

WORLD CUP ER | OPEN THREAD | JULY 5TH, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho REAL TEST Paraguay are the first real test for France. A tough as nails team on the defense. Can France crack it? DON’T FORGET The transfer window is officially open since July 1st, in case you forgot because of the world cup. Time to go shopping with Mourinho.

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