Kamada: Japan on the right track

Arlington: Daichi Kamada believes Japan’s battling performance in their 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their Group F opener in Dallas at the FIFA World Cup 2026 is another sign of the progress that has been made by the Samurai Blue over the last four years.

Valiant Jordan make Sellami proud

Santa Clara: Head coach Jamal Sellami said there was no shame in defeat for Jordan in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Austria on Tuesday.

Iraq's Arnold remains confident despite Norway setback

Foxborough: Head coach Graham Arnold is confident Iraq can reignite their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after falling to a 4-1 defeat to Norway on Tuesday.

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.

Group K: Uzbekistan 1-3 Colombia

Ciudad de Mexico: Uzbekistan did their best but ultimately had to concede to Colombia's superiority as the Central Asian side suffered a 3-1 defeat in their opening FIFA World Cup Group K opener on Thursday.

Messi grounded despite matching goals record

Kansas City: Lionel Messi savoured a "beautiful moment" after becoming the FIFA World Cup's joint all-time leading goalscorer on Tuesday but said "ultimately, it is just a statistic, nothing more".