US President Donald Trump has urged FIFA to award a future FIFA World Cup exclusively to the United States, saying the country should host the tournament again—but this time without Canada and Mexico. Trump made the remarks during a FIFA World Cup reception held ahead of Sunday's final between Spain and Argentina.

Addressing guests at Trump Tower in New York, Trump praised the success of the 2026 tournament and encouraged FIFA to bring the competition back to the United States.

“You should choose the United States of America again. This time we will leave Canada and Mexico out,” Trump said.

He added, in a light-hearted tone, that FIFA should “pick somebody else for the next one and that will take some of the anger, hatred and steam out of everyone.”

Eyes on the 2038 FIFA World Cup

Trump's comments are widely seen as an informal pitch for the 2038 FIFA World Cup, the next men's tournament still available for bidding.

The hosting rights for the next two editions have already been decided:

• 2030 FIFA World Cup: Spain, Portugal and Morocco will jointly host the tournament, while Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will stage the opening matches as part of the centenary celebrations.
• 2034 FIFA World Cup: Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host nation.

With those tournaments already allocated, the 2038 World Cup is expected to become the next major bidding contest.

Trump Mentions Joint US-China Hosting Idea

During his speech, Trump revealed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino had once suggested the possibility of the United States and China jointly hosting a World Cup.

Joking about the proposal, Trump said players would have “a nice short flight in between games.”

Although the remark drew laughs, FIFA has not announced any plans regarding the 2038 bidding process.

Reference to Balogun Suspension Controversy

Trump also revisited the controversy surrounding US striker Folarin Balogun, who received a red card during the United States' victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The president said he personally contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to seek a review of the decision. FIFA later lifted Balogun's automatic one-match suspension, allowing him to play against Belgium—a decision that drew criticism from football fans and analysts worldwide.

Praising Infantino during the reception, Trump remarked:

“You made another great decision. You'll never get credit for that.”

Trump's Continued Interest in Major Sporting Events

Trump has frequently highlighted the importance of hosting global sporting events in the United States. Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he has attended several football-related events and promoted the tournament as a showcase of America's ability to stage international competitions.

His latest remarks suggest he would like to see the United States once again compete for hosting rights when FIFA opens the bidding for the 2038 FIFA World Cup.

Played before a packed crowd, the contest delivered goals, attacking football and individual brilliance from both sides. Although neither team reached the final, the playoff carried significant importance as two of the tournament's strongest squads looked to finish their campaigns with a victory.

England took control early by moving the ball quickly through midfield and creating consistent pressure in the attacking third. Saka rewarded that dominance with his first goal before adding two more during the match to complete the first World Cup hat-trick of his international career. His pace, movement and finishing proved too much for the French defence throughout the contest.

The performance also highlighted England's attacking depth, with support from the midfield and wide areas allowing Saka to exploit spaces behind the French backline. The victory provided a positive ending for England after narrowly missing out on a place in the World Cup final.

France, however, continued to threaten whenever Kylian Mbappe was on the ball. The captain once again demonstrated why he remains one of the world's most dangerous forwards by finding the net and adding to his tournament tally. His goal further strengthened his position in the race for the Golden Boot, capping another outstanding individual World Cup campaign despite the disappointing team result.

Mbappe's pace and direct running created several opportunities for France, but England's defence recovered well after conceding and managed to limit further damage during key phases of the match.

The third-place playoff also offered both managers an opportunity to assess squad depth ahead of future international competitions. Several players delivered encouraging performances, while experienced campaigners ensured the game maintained its competitive intensity despite the disappointment of missing the final.

England's success reflected the progress the side has made during the tournament. The team combined defensive discipline with an effective attacking approach, producing several entertaining performances on the way to the semi-finals before falling short against stronger opposition.

For France, the defeat marked a disappointing conclusion to another deep World Cup run. Nevertheless, the squad leaves the tournament with several positives, including Mbappe's exceptional scoring record and the emergence of young players who are expected to remain central to the national team in the coming years.

As attention now shifts to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain, England will take satisfaction from finishing third, while France will look back at missed opportunities despite possessing one of the tournament's most dangerous attacking line-ups.

England's victory ensures they return home with a medal and renewed confidence, whereas France will begin preparations for the next international cycle with the objective of once again challenging for football's biggest prize.

Beyond the battle for the trophy, the final carries significant historical weight. It will be the 12th World Cup final featuring a European nation against a South American side, extending one of football’s most enduring rivalries.

History appears to favour Argentina. Of the previous 11 World Cup finals contested between teams from Europe and Latin America, South American nations emerged victorious on eight occasions, while European teams lifted the trophy only three times.

Another statistic strengthens Argentina’s case. World Cups played outside Europe have traditionally been dominated by Latin American teams. Of the 11 editions staged beyond European soil, South American countries have won nine titles. European nations have managed to break that trend only twice.

Spain, however, are one of the exceptions.

The Spanish side won its first and only World Cup title in South Africa in 2010, becoming one of the few European nations to conquer the tournament outside its home continent. Germany repeated the feat four years later in Brazil.

For Argentina, Sunday’s final offers a chance to achieve something football has not witnessed in more than six decades.

Having lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, the Albiceleste now stand one victory away from becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend a World Cup crown. If Argentina overcome Spain, they will join an exclusive club occupied only by Italy and Brazil.

Italy became the first nation to retain the trophy after winning the 1934 and 1938 editions. Brazil later achieved the feat by securing consecutive titles in 1958 and 1962. No team has repeated the accomplishment since then.

The significance of the achievement underlines what is at stake for the reigning champions.

The final also reflects the contrasting journeys of the two teams over the last decade.

Spain enjoyed a golden era between 2008 and 2012, winning two European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. However, the team struggled to replicate that success in subsequent tournaments, failing to progress beyond the knockout rounds in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

Argentina, meanwhile, have maintained remarkable consistency on the global stage. The South American giants have reached three semi-finals and two finals across the last four World Cup editions. Their ability to remain competitive deep into major tournaments has reinforced their reputation as one of football’s most resilient international sides.

World Cup history itself reflects the dominance of Europe and South America.

From the inaugural tournament in 1930 through the 2022 edition, every World Cup title has been won by nations from those two continents. European countries, represented by five different champions, have collected 12 titles, while South America’s three champion nations have combined for 10 triumphs.

No team from Asia, Africa, North America or Oceania has ever lifted football’s most prestigious trophy.

The upcoming final will therefore continue a tradition that has defined the World Cup since its inception.

Argentina will be appearing in their seventh World Cup final, further cementing their place among the tournament’s elite nations. Spain, meanwhile, are chasing only their second world title and an opportunity to establish a new era of success on the international stage.

While statistics and history provide fascinating context, the final will ultimately be decided on the pitch. Argentina enter with the opportunity to create football history, while Spain have the chance to challenge long-standing trends and add another World Cup trophy to their collection.

With two of the sport’s most accomplished footballing nations preparing for the biggest match of the tournament, the 2026 FIFA World Cup final promises to deliver another memorable chapter in World Cup history.

Much of the attention is naturally centred on Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal. For Argentina, the final could mark Messi's last appearance on the World Cup stage. At 39, the Argentine captain continues to influence games at the highest level and heads into the final as the tournament's leading scorer. Across the pitch will be Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, whose rise has made him one of world football's brightest young stars and a symbol of Spain's new generation.

The meeting has been widely described as a symbolic clash between football's present and future. A widely shared photograph taken nearly two decades ago showing a young Messi with baby Yamal has added another layer of intrigue to the occasion, making Sunday's encounter one of the sport's most compelling storylines.

Argentina have once again relied on their experience, resilience and attacking quality throughout the tournament. Lionel Scaloni's side overcame England in a dramatic semi-final to book their place in the title decider and are now chasing back-to-back World Cup titles, a feat no nation has achieved since Brazil in 1962. Scaloni has repeatedly praised his players' ability to perform under pressure while insisting his team remains focused solely on the challenge ahead.

Spain, meanwhile, have impressed with their disciplined structure and possession-based football. Luis de la Fuente's side defeated France in the semi-finals after controlling long periods of the match and have built a reputation as one of the tournament's strongest defensive units. Their ability to dominate midfield and limit opponents' chances has made them one of the standout teams of the competition.

According to FIFA's preview, several individual battles could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the final. Spain defender Aymeric Laporte is expected to shoulder the responsibility of containing Messi, while Argentina left-back Nicolás Tagliafico faces the difficult task of stopping Yamal's pace and creativity on the flank. Another key contest is likely to unfold in midfield, where Spain's Rodri will come up against Argentina's Enzo Fernández in a battle for control of possession and tempo.

Both teams also arrive with significant momentum. Argentina's attack has consistently delivered goals in the knockout rounds, while Spain's organised defensive system has frustrated some of the tournament's strongest attacking sides. The final therefore presents a fascinating tactical contrast between Argentina's direct attacking approach and Spain's patient, possession-oriented style.

Beyond the tactical contest, Sunday's match carries enormous historical significance. Argentina are seeking a fourth World Cup title and the opportunity to defend the trophy successfully, while Spain are aiming to win their second World Cup crown and reinforce their position among international football's elite.

For many supporters, however, the occasion extends beyond statistics or silverware. The possibility of Messi ending his international career with another World Cup triumph and Yamal announcing himself on football's biggest stage has transformed the final into a generational spectacle that transcends national rivalries.

As anticipation builds ahead of kickoff, the world will watch to see whether Argentina can successfully defend their title or if Spain's emerging generation can usher in a new era by lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy.

Neither side entered the tournament with the ambition of competing for bronze. France were beaten by Spain in the last four, while England suffered a narrow loss to defending champions Argentina after surrendering a first-half lead. The fixture now offers both European heavyweights an opportunity to leave the World Cup with a podium finish before the final takes centre stage.

The match also carries individual significance, particularly in the race for the tournament's Golden Boot. France captain Kylian Mbappe remains among the leading scorers and has one final opportunity to improve his tally. England skipper Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham are also in contention, making the Miami clash important beyond the bronze medal itself.

For France, the contest marks the final game under head coach Didier Deschamps, whose tenure is set to conclude after the tournament. Although Deschamps admitted that no team truly wants to play a third-place match after falling short of the final, he stressed that representing France and finishing the competition with a victory remains a responsibility for every player.

French defender Ibrahima Konate echoed that sentiment, saying the squad wants to give Deschamps a winning farewell following his successful spell in charge of the national team.

England, meanwhile, are attempting to recover from the disappointment of their semi-final defeat against Argentina. Harry Kane described the loss as heartbreaking but insisted the squad would regroup and continue building towards future tournaments. The Three Lions have enjoyed another deep World Cup run under their current setup and will now seek to secure third place before heading home.

Both managers are expected to make changes to their starting line-ups, with several players carrying minor fitness concerns after an intense tournament schedule. Squad rotation could also provide opportunities for footballers who have had limited minutes during the World Cup.

The third-place playoff has traditionally divided opinion, with some players viewing it as an unwanted fixture after missing out on the final. Nevertheless, it remains an official FIFA World Cup match and offers both teams a chance to end the competition with a victory and a place on the podium.

France have looked impressive throughout much of the tournament despite their semi-final setback, while England have shown resilience during their knockout run. Both teams possess attacking quality capable of producing an entertaining contest, with Mbappe and Kane expected to remain the main attractions.

The game will be played at Miami Stadium on Saturday, a day before Spain and Argentina meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. While the biggest prize is no longer within reach, pride, ranking points and individual milestones ensure there is still plenty at stake for two of world football's strongest nations.

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the first semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Dallas on Tuesday, ending a 16-year wait for another appearance in football's biggest match.

Mikel Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty before defender Pedro Porro doubled Spain's lead after the break, as Luis de la Fuente's side outclassed the 2018 world champions to secure only their second-ever World Cup final appearance.

Spain will now play the winner of the second semifinal in the title clash, hoping to lift their second FIFA World Cup trophy after their historic triumph in South Africa in 2010.

Penalty Breakthrough

Spain made a bright start and earned the breakthrough in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the penalty area. French defender Lucas Digne's challenge was ruled a foul following the referee's immediate decision to award a penalty.

Oyarzabal stepped up confidently and fired the ball into the bottom-right corner, leaving goalkeeper Mike Maignan with no chance. The strike was the Spanish forward's fifth goal of the tournament and gave La Roja complete control of the contest.

France attempted to respond with longer spells of possession but struggled to break through Spain's disciplined defensive structure.

Porro Seals the Victory

The European champions continued to dominate after halftime and effectively ended the contest in the 58th minute.

Midfielder Dani Olmo threaded a perfectly weighted pass into the penalty area, where Pedro Porro arrived to finish clinically and double Spain's advantage. The goal silenced France's hopes of a comeback and allowed Spain to dictate the tempo for the remainder of the match.

Spain maintained possession intelligently during the closing stages, denying France any meaningful opportunities to reduce the deficit.

Mbappé Neutralised

France entered the semifinal with one of the tournament's strongest attacking records, led by captain Kylian Mbappé, who had scored eight goals before the match.

However, Spain's organised backline successfully contained the French superstar throughout the evening. Mbappé was repeatedly caught offside, struggled to find space in dangerous areas and received a yellow card during the second half as frustration grew.

The defeat ended France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final after appearances in 2018 and 2022.

Spain One Step Away

The victory underlines Spain's impressive resurgence on the global stage. Blending experienced leaders such as Rodri and Dani Olmo with emerging talents like Lamine Yamal, the team has displayed consistency throughout the tournament.

After lifting their only World Cup title in 2010, Spain endured disappointing campaigns in the following editions. Their return to the final marks a significant milestone for a new generation aiming to restore the country's dominance in international football.

France, meanwhile, exits the tournament despite another strong campaign, with questions likely to arise over missed opportunities in a semifinal where Spain controlled both possession and momentum.

With confidence high and just one match remaining, Spain now stands within touching distance of reclaiming football's biggest prize after 16 years.

Football giants Argentina and England are set for a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, with a place in the final at stake. The clash at Atlanta Stadium will kick off at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday, reviving one of international football's most iconic rivalries.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, enters the contest with a perfect record in the tournament, while England hopes to end a 60-year wait for another World Cup final.

Historic Rivalry Returns

This will be the first World Cup meeting between Argentina and England since the 2002 edition, when England secured a 1-0 victory. Overall, the two sides have played 14 international matches, with England winning six, Argentina three, and five ending in draws.

The semi-final will mark their sixth World Cup encounter, adding another chapter to a rivalry filled with memorable moments.

Messi Targets Consecutive World Cup Finals

Lionel Messi has once again been Argentina's driving force. The captain has scored eight goals in the tournament and is among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.

Argentina has won all six of its matches so far, defeating Algeria, Austria and Jordan in the group stage before overcoming Cape Verde, Egypt and Switzerland in the knockout rounds.

A victory over England would send Argentina into its seventh World Cup final. The South American giants have previously lifted the trophy in 1978, 1986 and 2022, while finishing runners-up in 1930, 1990 and 2014.

England Seeking First Final Since 1966

England arrives with confidence after an impressive campaign that includes five wins and one draw.

The Three Lions defeated Croatia and Panama during the group stage before drawing with Ghana. They then eliminated DR Congo, Mexico and Norway to reach the last four.

Captain Harry Kane has scored six goals in the tournament and will once again spearhead England's attack alongside Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka.

A victory would send England into its first World Cup final since 1966, when it won its only FIFA World Cup title.

Key Battle: Messi vs Kane

The spotlight will naturally fall on Lionel Messi and Harry Kane, two of world football's biggest stars.

While Messi has orchestrated Argentina's unbeaten campaign with eight goals, Kane has consistently delivered crucial goals for England. Midfield battles involving Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo could prove decisive in determining which team controls possession.

Argentina's defensive pairing of Cristian Romero and Nicolás Otamendi will also face a stern test against England's attacking quartet.

Probable Playing XIs

Argentina: Emiliano Martínez, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez, Nicolás González.

England: Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Marc Guéhi, Kieran Trippier, Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Harry Kane.

What's at Stake

The winner will advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final to face Spain, which booked its place after defeating France 2-0 in the first semi-final. For Argentina, it is an opportunity to defend its world title and give Messi another shot at football's biggest prize. For England, it represents a chance to end six decades of waiting and move one step closer to a second World Cup crown.

The quarter-final, played in Kansas City on Saturday, remained finely balanced for long periods before Argentina produced two decisive goals late in extra time to secure their place among the last four. The result also keeps Lionel Messi's hopes of ending his World Cup career with back-to-back titles intact.

Argentina made a bright start and took the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a Lionel Messi corner to give the South American side an early advantage. Switzerland, however, refused to back down and gradually worked their way back into the contest.

The equaliser arrived midway through the second half when Dan Ndoye found the net after sustained Swiss pressure. The goal shifted momentum and briefly raised hopes of another major upset in the tournament.

The match took another turn in the 72nd minute when Switzerland were reduced to 10 men. Forward Breel Embolo received a second yellow card following a VAR-reviewed simulation decision, leaving the European side to defend with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of normal time and extra time. The dismissal proved to be one of the defining moments of the contest.

Despite enjoying an extra player, Argentina struggled to break through during the first period of extra time. It was Julián Álvarez who finally unlocked the Swiss defence with a stunning long-range strike in the 112th minute, sending Argentine supporters into celebration.

As Switzerland pushed forward in search of another equaliser, Lautaro Martínez added a third goal deep into extra time to seal the victory and end the resistance of a spirited Swiss side.

The win sends Argentina into a heavyweight semi-final against England, who secured their own last-four berth after defeating Norway earlier in the quarter-finals. The fixture revives one of international football's most historic rivalries and will decide who advances to the FIFA World Cup final.

Argentina's road to the semi-finals has been anything but straightforward. Lionel Scaloni's side survived an extra-time battle against Cape Verde in the Round of 32 before producing a dramatic comeback victory over Egypt in the Round of 16. Their latest triumph over Switzerland extends their unbeaten run in the tournament, although each knockout match has tested the defending champions in different ways.

While Messi did not add to his goal tally, the Argentine captain once again played an influential role by providing the assist for the opening goal and orchestrating attacks throughout the evening. His experience and leadership remain central to Argentina's campaign as they move closer to another World Cup final.

The other semi-final will see France face Spain, ensuring that four of world football's traditional heavyweights remain in contention for the title. With the knockout stage now entering its decisive phase, the battle for football's biggest prize promises two blockbuster semi-final clashes featuring some of the sport's biggest stars.

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Belgium 2-1 in a dramatic quarter-final at SoFi Stadium, with Mikel Merino once again emerging as the match-winner.

Merino scored the decisive goal in the 88th minute, just four days after his injury-time winner against Portugal in the Round of 16, sending La Roja into a highly anticipated last-four showdown against France.

The Arsenal midfielder capitalised on a costly error by Belgium substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who spilled Pau Cubarsí's long-range effort into Merino's path. The Spanish midfielder made no mistake, firing home on just his second touch after coming off the bench.

Ruiz Opens the Scoring

Spain took the lead in the 30th minute when Fabián Ruiz converted from close range after a rebound, rewarding the team's early dominance.

Belgium responded before halftime through Charles De Ketelaere, whose powerful header in the 41st minute ended Spain's remarkable run of not conceding a goal throughout the tournament. It was also goalkeeper Unai Simón's first goal conceded in a World Cup after a record 650-minute shutout streak dating back to Qatar.

Merino Delivers Again

With the match seemingly heading towards extra time, Merino once again proved to be Spain's unlikely hero. Introduced in the 86th minute, he anticipated Lammens' handling error and calmly slotted home the winner two minutes later.

Speaking after the match, Merino admitted the moment felt surreal.

"Honestly, it's crazy to help the team once again. I prepare for when the moment comes, and hopefully they keep coming," he said.

The midfielder has now scored two crucial knockout-stage goals in his debut World Cup campaign.

Courtois Injury Hurts Belgium

Belgium suffered a major setback in the second half when first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off with an injury after receiving treatment on the field.

His replacement, Senne Lammens, made several important interventions but was unfortunate in the closing stages as his spill led directly to Spain's winning goal.

Belgium pushed hard for an equaliser in stoppage time, with Romelu Lukaku leading the attack, but Spain's defence held firm to secure victory.

Semi-final Showdown Awaits

The win sends Spain into their first FIFA World Cup semi-final since lifting the trophy in 2010. They will now face France in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed confidence ahead of the clash.

"It will be a clash of giants. We are capable of winning this game. France are a great football nation, but I trust our team."

Spain extended their unbeaten run in competitive matches to 37 games, while Belgium's impressive 18-match unbeaten streak came to an end.

The semi-final between two of Europe's football powerhouses is expected to be one of the marquee fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Defending champions Argentina produced one of the most remarkable comebacks in FIFA World Cup history, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16 and book their place in the quarter-finals. The dramatic victory, achieved with three goals in just 13 minutes, kept Argentina's title defence alive and added another memorable chapter to Lionel Messi's legendary international career.

The Round of 16 clash at Atlanta Stadium appeared to be heading towards a major upset as Egypt dominated for much of the contest. Yasser Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 15th minute after breaching Argentina's defence, while goalkeeper Mostafa Shobier frustrated the South American side with a series of crucial saves.

Argentina's difficulties deepened in the 21st minute when captain Lionel Messi failed to convert a penalty after Shobier produced an impressive save. It marked another missed spot-kick for the veteran forward, who nevertheless continued to lead his team's attacking efforts.

Egypt believed they had strengthened their advantage earlier in the second half, but a goal from Mostafa Ziko was ruled out following a VAR review. The forward eventually doubled Egypt's lead in the 67th minute, leaving Argentina facing an early exit from the tournament.

Argentina Turn the Match Around

The momentum shifted dramatically during the closing stages of the game. Cristian Romero sparked the comeback in the 79th minute with a powerful header from Messi's cross to reduce the deficit.

Just four minutes later, Messi found the net to restore parity, igniting celebrations among Argentine supporters and setting up a dramatic finish. Argentina completed the turnaround moments later with a decisive goal that sealed a remarkable 3-2 victory after trailing by two goals for most of the second half.

The emotional triumph proved overwhelming for Messi, who was seen in tears after the final whistle as teammates celebrated a memorable qualification to the quarter-finals.

Messi Creates More World Cup History

Apart from leading Argentina into the last eight, Messi achieved several significant milestones during the match. His goal moved him ahead of Diego Maradona for the most assists in FIFA World Cup history, while he also extended his record by scoring in nine consecutive World Cup matches.

The Argentine captain has now become the first player to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cup knockout matches. His eighth goal of the tournament also placed him at the top of the Golden Boot standings.

At the same time, the missed penalty added another unwanted statistic, making him the first player to miss two non-shootout penalties in a single World Cup edition and extending his record for the most penalty misses in World Cup history.

Egypt Question Refereeing Decisions

Following the defeat, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan criticised the match officials and VAR decisions. He questioned the decision to disallow one of Egypt's goals and claimed his side was denied a penalty during the contest.

Hassan expressed disappointment with the officiating, arguing that key decisions had gone against his team at crucial moments and influenced the outcome of the match.

Switzerland Reach Historic Quarter-Finals

In another Round of 16 encounter, Switzerland secured a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after defeating Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out following a goalless draw.

The tightly contested match produced few clear opportunities over 120 minutes, although Colombia came closest when Jhon Lucumí struck the crossbar during extra time. Switzerland managed only two shots on target throughout the match but held their nerve in the shoot-out.

Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel emerged as Switzerland's hero after saving Cucho Hernández's penalty before Ruben Vargas calmly converted the winning kick to send the Swiss into the last eight.

The result marks Switzerland's first FIFA World Cup quarter-final appearance in 72 years, with the nation last reaching this stage in the 1954 tournament.

Quarter-Final Awaits

Argentina will now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday, with both sides aiming to continue their impressive World Cup campaigns. While Argentina will rely on the experience and brilliance of Messi, Switzerland will look to build on their disciplined defensive performances and historic qualification.

Brazil's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended in heartbreak as Norway produced one of the tournament's biggest upsets, defeating the five-time champions 2-1 in the Round of 16. The defeat not only sent Norway into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in their history but also marked the end of Neymar's international career.

The 34-year-old Brazilian forward, who had announced before the tournament that it would likely be his final World Cup, confirmed his retirement from international football after the match. An emotional Neymar broke down in tears at the final whistle before being consoled by teammates following Brazil's earliest World Cup exit since 1990.

Erling Haaland proved to be the difference-maker for Norway, scoring both goals to secure a famous victory at MetLife Stadium. The Manchester City striker's brace also strengthened his bid for the tournament's Golden Boot, taking his tally to seven goals.

Brazil struggled to find rhythm throughout the contest and only managed a late consolation after Neymar converted a penalty in stoppage time. However, the goal was not enough to prevent the South American giants from crashing out of the competition.

Speaking after the match, a visibly emotional Neymar confirmed that his journey with the national team had come to an end.

"I tried, I tried. Now, it's over. I started here; I finished here," he told Brazilian broadcaster Globo.

The moment carried symbolic significance, as Neymar had made his senior Brazil debut at the same venue—then known as the New Meadowlands Stadium—against the United States in August 2010, scoring on his debut. He now retires as Brazil's all-time leading men's international scorer with 80 goals, surpassing Pelé's official tally.

Neymar also became only the second Brazilian male footballer after Pelé to score in four different FIFA World Cup tournaments. He finishes his international career with 130 appearances, second only to Cafu's 142 matches for Brazil.

Injuries, however, once again limited Neymar's impact on the biggest stage. A recurring right calf injury restricted him to just two appearances during the tournament. He featured briefly against Scotland in the group stage before coming off the bench against Norway in the Round of 16.

Despite entering the match late, Neymar remained involved until the end. The closing moments witnessed a heated exchange between the Brazilian forward and Norway goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland before Neymar calmly converted his penalty. After scoring, he responded with a sarcastic smile toward the Norwegian goalkeeper, but the brief confrontation could not change Brazil's fate.

For Neymar, the World Cup remained the one major title that eluded his glittering career. In 2014, his campaign ended prematurely because of injury before Brazil's historic semifinal defeat to Germany. Belgium knocked Brazil out in the 2018 quarterfinals, while Croatia eliminated the Seleção on penalties in 2022 despite Neymar scoring in extra time. Norway's victory has now brought his international journey to a close without the coveted World Cup trophy.

Meanwhile, Norway celebrated a landmark achievement as Haaland's clinical performance carried the Scandinavian nation into uncharted territory. They will now face England in the quarterfinals.

England booked their place after defeating co-hosts Mexico 3-2 in a dramatic Round of 16 encounter at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Jude Bellingham scored twice in quick succession during the first half before Julián Quiñones reduced the deficit for Mexico.

England's challenge became more difficult early in the second half when defender Jarell Quansah received a straight red card for a dangerous studs-up tackle, forcing his side to play with ten men.

Harry Kane restored England's two-goal advantage from the penalty spot before later conceding a penalty that Raúl Jiménez converted for Mexico. Despite relentless late pressure from the hosts, England held firm to secure victory and set up a quarterfinal clash against an inspired Norwegian side.

With Neymar's farewell and Norway's historic breakthrough, the Round of 16 delivered one of the most memorable days of the FIFA World Cup 2026, signalling the end of an era for Brazilian football while opening a new chapter for one of Europe's emerging footballing nations.

The result marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, with Norway advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. They will now face England, who secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Mexico to book their place in the last eight.

At MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance led by star striker Erling Haaland, who scored both goals to eliminate one of football’s traditional powerhouses. Brazil, despite enjoying significant possession and creating several opportunities, failed to convert key chances and paid the price against a resilient Norwegian side.

The match remained goalless at halftime, though Brazil had an excellent opportunity to take the lead in the 15th minute. Following a VAR review, the South American giants were awarded a penalty. However, midfielder Bruno Guimaraes saw his effort brilliantly saved by experienced Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who went on to make several crucial stops throughout the contest.

Nyland denied attempts from Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior as Norway held firm under sustained Brazilian pressure. The missed penalty proved costly as Norway grew into the game after the break.

The breakthrough arrived in the 72nd minute when Andreas Schjelderup delivered an inviting cross from the left flank and Haaland powered home a header to give Norway a 1-0 advantage. Brazil pushed forward in search of an equaliser but left themselves exposed at the back.

Deep into stoppage time, Haaland struck again. The Manchester City forward calmly beat his marker before slotting the ball through defender Danilo’s legs and into the net, effectively sealing Norway’s historic victory. The goals took Haaland’s tally in the tournament to seven, drawing him level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 100th minute, but the goal only reduced the deficit. Moments later, the final whistle confirmed Brazil’s earliest World Cup elimination since 1990.

The match also marked the end of an era for Brazilian football. Shortly after the defeat, Neymar announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career with the national team.

“I gave everything I had. My journey started here and now it ends here. My chapter with Brazil is over,” the 34-year-old said after the match.

The symbolism was significant. Neymar made his Brazil debut at the same venue in 2010 against the United States and chose the same stadium to bid farewell to international football. He confirmed that he will continue playing club football and remains under contract with Brazilian side Santos FC.

Despite injury struggles in recent years, Neymar leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy. He represented Brazil in 130 matches, making him the country’s second-most capped player behind Cafu. His goal against Norway took his international tally to 80 goals, surpassing Pele’s record of 77.

The strike also saw Neymar equal another iconic milestone, becoming only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Brazil’s elimination extended another unwanted trend. It was the sixth consecutive World Cup in which the Selecao were knocked out by a European nation, following defeats to France (2006), the Netherlands (2010), Germany (2014), Belgium (2018), Croatia (2022) and now Norway (2026).

Elsewhere, England advanced to a third successive World Cup quarter-final after overcoming Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling contest. Jude Bellingham scored twice in quick succession before Harry Kane added a penalty in the second half. England held on despite playing with ten men for more than 35 minutes following Jarell Quansah’s red card.

The quarter-final clash between Norway and England now promises to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the tournament, with Norway chasing another historic milestone and England seeking a return to the World Cup semi-finals.