Group J: Argentina 3-0 Algeria

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Group J: Argentina 3-0 Algeria

Kansas City: Lionel Messi scored a dazzling hat-trick for Argentina on Tuesday to equal Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16 goals at FIFA World Cups as the defending champions swept Algeria aside 3-0.

Messi netted a spectacular opener from distance in Kansas City, then poked home from close range before completing his first ever FIFA World Cup hat-trick.

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Relieved Donis applauds Saudi Arabia's defensive resilience

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Relieved Donis applauds Saudi Arabia's defensive resilience

Miami: Georgios Donis paid tribute to goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais and his defenders after Saudi Arabia battled to a 1-1 draw with Uruguay in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H opener on Monday.

The South American side dominated possession with 10 of their 27 shots on target to Saudi Arabia's three but inspired goalkeeping from Al Owais and resolute defending limited the two-time world champions to just one goal at the Miami Stadium.

Ronaldo as excited for sixth outing as his first, says Martinez

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Ronaldo as excited for sixth outing as his first, says Martinez

Houston: Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for his sixth FIFA World Cup as if it was his first, said Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez as he hailed the 41-year-old as "an example and a reference for football."

Armed with a richly talented generation, Portugal are among the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup for the first time.

Spain's De la Fuente cool despite Cabo Verde setback

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Spain's De la Fuente cool despite Cabo Verde setback

Atlanta: Spain boss Luis de la Fuente said he is still convinced La Roja will go far at the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite failing to break down debutants Cabo Verde in a 0-0 draw to open their tournament.

The European champions badly missed the spark of Lamine Yamal, who was deemed only fit enough for a second-half cameo on his return from injury, as they struggled to even create chances against a side ranked 67th in the world.

Belgium disappoint Garcia

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Belgium disappoint Garcia

Seattle: Head coach Rudi Garcia challenged his Belgium players to get on the winning track in their next match after settling for a 1-1 draw with Egypt in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match on Monday.

The European side equalised through Mohamed Hany's own goal in the 66th minute after he diverted Romelu Lukaku's cross, with Egypt ​having taken the lead in the 18th minute through Emam Ashour.

Group I: Iraq 1-4 Norway

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Group I: Iraq 1-4 Norway

Foxborough: Iraq had to concede to Erling Haaland-powered Norway as they fell to a 4-1 defeat in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group I tie on Tuesday.

Aymen Hussein drew Iraq level after Haaland had put Norway ahead in the 29th minute but an opportunistic strike from the Manchester City star just before the break followed by Leo Ostigard's header and on own goal by Hussein ended the West Asian side's hopes of getting something from the game.