Ronaldo delights in silencing critics

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Ronaldo delights in silencing critics

Houston: Cristiano Ronaldo declared "I'm back" and said those "attacking" him should never write him off after making FIFA World Cup history in a 5-0 defeat of Uzbekistan on Tuesday in Houston.

The 41-year-old, under pressure to deliver after a barren recent run at major tournaments, pounced after six minutes to become the first player to score in six FIFA World Cup campaigns.

He added a second with a smart finish before half-time as Roberto Martinez's side revived their campaign.

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Sellami: Inexperience cost Jordan

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Sellami: Inexperience cost Jordan

Santa Clara: Jamal Sellami admitted inexperience was the major reason for Jordan's 2-1 defeat to Algeria in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J tie on Monday.

The tournament debutants took the lead through Nizar Al Rashdan in the 36th minute but Algeria hit back in the second half through Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri, with the defeat consigning Jordan to an early exit.

Arnold confident Iraq can still progress

Tue, 23 Jun, 2026

Arnold confident Iraq can still progress

Philadelphia: Graham Arnold refused to accept that Iraq's dream was dashed despite their 3-0 defeat to France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday.

A second consecutive loss means Iraq's hopes are hanging by a thread in Group I, with even victory against Senegal on Friday may not be enough to take them into the Round of 32.

Mbappe's focus on France, not records

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Mbappe's focus on France, not records

Philadelphia: Kylian Mbappe said he was not paying too much attention to FIFA World Cup scoring records after getting two more goals on what he described as a draining night in Philadelphia, as France beat Iraq 3-0 in a game interrupted by a two-hour storm delay on Monday.

Mbappe's strikes came either side of half-time on his 100th appearance for France, and Ousmane Dembele the other goal in a game which was held up at half-time as torrential rain lashed the city.

Haaland realistic about Norway's chances

Tue, 23 Jun, 2026

Haaland realistic about Norway's chances

East Rutherford: Erling Haaland said Norway must be realistic about what they can achieve at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after qualifying for the last 32 on Monday with a 3-2 win over Senegal.

Haaland followed up his brace in the opening 4-1 victory over Islamic Republic of Iran with two more goals as Norway won consecutive games at the FIFA World Cup for the first time.

Norway have lost just one of their past 18 matches and will take on 2022 runners-up France in Boston on Friday to determine the winners of Group I.

Spain's Oyarzabal happy to play through pain

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Spain's Oyarzabal happy to play through pain

Chattanooga: Mikel Oyarzabal said a minor knee injury will not put his FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign at risk after kickstarting Spain's challenge by scoring twice in a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

Oyarzabal also set up La Roja's opening goal for Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal as the European champions made amends for a disappointing 0-0 draw against Cabo Verde in their first match in North America.

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente revealed after the match that the Real Sociedad forward had been struggling with a knee problem, but insisted he was fit to start.