Group J: Austria 3-1 Jordan

Santa Clara: Jordan's hopes of kicking off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on the front foot were dashed by a strong Austria at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Tuesday.

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.

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.

Kane tells England 'be free in the mind'

Arlington: Captain Harry Kane told his England teammates to "go for it" and be "free in the mind" when they launch their FIFA World Cup 2026 title charge on Wednesday against Croatia in Texas.

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."

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.