1 hr. ago
Reports in Italy and Spain claim that Barcelona are interested in an audacious move to sign Inter captain Lautaro Martinez after their unsuccessful pursuit of Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, but the Nerazzurri are not expected to even entertain the idea of selling their talisman.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tuttosport and various others, Barcelona are interested in signing Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, although there have been conflicting reports over the Argentine's preferences.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JUNE 27: L.Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring the team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Jordan and Argentina at Dallas Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
In Catalonia, there have been suggestions that Lautaro has 'opened the doors' to joining Barcelona, even if arranging a deal with Inter is expected to be complicated, whilst La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that there is no chance of Lautaro leaving San Siro before the end of this summer transfer window.
There had been genuine interest in Lautaro from Barcelona several years ago, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but given that Barca are still in a complicated financial situation and given that Inter do not want to sell their talisman at any cost, especially with less than a week to go before the start of the Serie A season, the chances of him leaving this month seem slim.
#Barcelona #gazzetta #arlington #texas
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Tuttosport and various others, Barcelona are interested in signing Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, although there have been conflicting reports over the Argentine's preferences.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – JUNE 27: L.Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring the team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Jordan and Argentina at Dallas Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
In Catalonia, there have been suggestions that Lautaro has 'opened the doors' to joining Barcelona, even if arranging a deal with Inter is expected to be complicated, whilst La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that there is no chance of Lautaro leaving San Siro before the end of this summer transfer window.
There had been genuine interest in Lautaro from Barcelona several years ago, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but given that Barca are still in a complicated financial situation and given that Inter do not want to sell their talisman at any cost, especially with less than a week to go before the start of the Serie A season, the chances of him leaving this month seem slim.
#Barcelona #gazzetta #arlington #texas
2 hours ago
Barcelona's interest in Lautaro Martinez appears to have hit an immediate obstacle, with Inter Milan making it clear that their captain is not available for transfer.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Inter have received no offer from Barcelona for the Argentine striker.
More importantly, the Italian club are not expecting one and would have no interest in considering a sale even if Barcelona were to make an approach.
The report comes after Lautaro emerged as a leading name in Barcelona transfer news following the club's apparent failure to land Julian Alvarez.
With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres' departures leaving a major gap in attack, the Inter captain had moved into the picture as a potential solution.
#interest
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Inter have received no offer from Barcelona for the Argentine striker.
More importantly, the Italian club are not expecting one and would have no interest in considering a sale even if Barcelona were to make an approach.
The report comes after Lautaro emerged as a leading name in Barcelona transfer news following the club's apparent failure to land Julian Alvarez.
With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres' departures leaving a major gap in attack, the Inter captain had moved into the picture as a potential solution.
#interest
2 hours ago
Barcelona have turned their attention to Lautaro Martinez and Gabriel Jesus as the Spanish champions look to strengthen at centre-forward.
Barca are on the hunt for forward options after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres this summer.
Hansi Flick's side have been frustrated in a pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madridinsistent that the Argentine is not for sale. Atletico have said even bids of €200m (£171m) will be rejected, despite Alvarez's admission that he wants to leave.
As a result, Barcelona have now made Lautaro Martinez their top target. JournalistGerard Romero has reported that the Inter Milan captain is now the 'number one priority'.
"It will be a very difficult deal to pull off, but Lautaro is Barça's number-one priority, and the club will do everything possible in the final days of the transfer window," he told said in theJijantesFC live stream.
#lautaro #Barcelona #forward
Barca are on the hunt for forward options after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres this summer.
Hansi Flick's side have been frustrated in a pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madridinsistent that the Argentine is not for sale. Atletico have said even bids of €200m (£171m) will be rejected, despite Alvarez's admission that he wants to leave.
As a result, Barcelona have now made Lautaro Martinez their top target. JournalistGerard Romero has reported that the Inter Milan captain is now the 'number one priority'.
"It will be a very difficult deal to pull off, but Lautaro is Barça's number-one priority, and the club will do everything possible in the final days of the transfer window," he told said in theJijantesFC live stream.
#lautaro #Barcelona #forward
4 days ago
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Brandt Bronico scored in the first minute and Pep Biel had a goal contribution in a sixth straight match to spark Charlotte FC to a 3-1 victory over the Columbus Crew on Saturday night.
Bronico took passes from defender David Schnegg and Liel Abada and scored 29 seconds into the match for his first goal this season and his eighth in 204 career appearances. Schnegg's ******* ists was his fifth and Abada collected his fourth — both career highs.
Abada scored his second goal of the campaign on a penalty kick in the 9th minute for a 2-0 lead. The kick was awarded after he was fouled by Crew midfielder Dylan Chambost.
Eighteen-year-old rookie Chase Adams used his head in the 41st minute to score his first career goal and Columbus trailed 2-1 at halftime. Adams made his first start and fourth appearance. Defender Brooks Lennon picked up his first ******* ist this season and rookie Lautaro Giaccone snagged his first in his first start and second appearance.
Biel scored in the 73rd minute for a 3-1 advantage. It was the 10th goal for the midfielder — matching his career high set last season. Nineteen-year-old rookie forward Rodolfo Aloko earned his first ******* ist in his ninth appearance and rookie defender Will Cleary added his second in his fifth.
#season
Bronico took passes from defender David Schnegg and Liel Abada and scored 29 seconds into the match for his first goal this season and his eighth in 204 career appearances. Schnegg's ******* ists was his fifth and Abada collected his fourth — both career highs.
Abada scored his second goal of the campaign on a penalty kick in the 9th minute for a 2-0 lead. The kick was awarded after he was fouled by Crew midfielder Dylan Chambost.
Eighteen-year-old rookie Chase Adams used his head in the 41st minute to score his first career goal and Columbus trailed 2-1 at halftime. Adams made his first start and fourth appearance. Defender Brooks Lennon picked up his first ******* ist this season and rookie Lautaro Giaccone snagged his first in his first start and second appearance.
Biel scored in the 73rd minute for a 3-1 advantage. It was the 10th goal for the midfielder — matching his career high set last season. Nineteen-year-old rookie forward Rodolfo Aloko earned his first ******* ist in his ninth appearance and rookie defender Will Cleary added his second in his fifth.
#season
8 days ago
Barcelona have spent almost the entire transfer window trying to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid.
Los Colchoneros have maintained the same resolute stance since then: the 26-year-old Argentine is not for sale this summer, especially to Barça.
The Catalan club submitted their first bid for the player before the World Cup, but negotiations have not moved an inch since.
Barça briefly flirted with options like Joao Pedro and Eli Junior Kroupi, with Lautaro Martinez's name also being floated around in recent days.
Now, according to Gerard Romero, Hansi Flick is not interested in pursuing Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic or Lautaro Martinez.
#julian
Los Colchoneros have maintained the same resolute stance since then: the 26-year-old Argentine is not for sale this summer, especially to Barça.
The Catalan club submitted their first bid for the player before the World Cup, but negotiations have not moved an inch since.
Barça briefly flirted with options like Joao Pedro and Eli Junior Kroupi, with Lautaro Martinez's name also being floated around in recent days.
Now, according to Gerard Romero, Hansi Flick is not interested in pursuing Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic or Lautaro Martinez.
#julian
9 days ago
We're officially past the point in the U-23 rankings where potential alone will get you a spot. When you make your way closer and closer to #1 , you have to show ability in a top-flight league, preferably Serie A, to show that you're a serious hope for the future and for the present. There's no doubt that Santiago Castro has the Serie A experience necessary to view him as a player that Roma can rely on now and for the next five seasons. The biggest question circling the new Giallorossi #9 is whether he will be able to seize the opportunity handed to him confidently, with Donyell Malen ahead of him in the pecking order.
Age: 21
Position: Striker
Shades of: Lautaro Martinez, Julián Álvarez, Carlos Tevez with less wide play
Santiago Castro (who likes to go by Santi) was born in San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina, nearly 22 years ago. He first came to the attention of the Argentine football system while playing for the youth team at Vélez Sarsfield, the club he joined at age seven. After a decade in that youth system, Castro was given the chance to debut for their senior side in August 2021 at the age of sixteen. Since then, it's been a generally quick rise to the top for the young striker, as he racked up 65 appearances across all competitions for Vélez Sarsfield before transferring to Bologna in January 2024 for around €13.2 million.
#sarsfield
Age: 21
Position: Striker
Shades of: Lautaro Martinez, Julián Álvarez, Carlos Tevez with less wide play
Santiago Castro (who likes to go by Santi) was born in San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina, nearly 22 years ago. He first came to the attention of the Argentine football system while playing for the youth team at Vélez Sarsfield, the club he joined at age seven. After a decade in that youth system, Castro was given the chance to debut for their senior side in August 2021 at the age of sixteen. Since then, it's been a generally quick rise to the top for the young striker, as he racked up 65 appearances across all competitions for Vélez Sarsfield before transferring to Bologna in January 2024 for around €13.2 million.
#sarsfield
12 days ago
Italy's front pages on Saturday are given over to a trio of big exclusive interviews, with Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Cesc Fabregas and Weston McKennie all taking centre stage, set against the "Derby d'Italia" friendly between Juventus and Inter in Perth.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Çalhanoğlu has firmly committed his future to Inter. "I want only Inter," runs the headline, with the Turkey midfielder dismissing links to his homeland, "Forget Turkey, I'm staying here", and declaring the Nerazzurri can go all the way in the Champions League, while awaiting the club's call over a new contract. His stance follows the collapse of Galatasaray's long-running interest.
Corriere dello Sport, meanwhile, leads on Cesc Fabregas, who hails Inter as the benchmark of Serie A.
"The peak is Inter," the Como coach declares, praising Lautaro Martínez as the league's finest, "I'd buy him in Fantasy football", and likening his own Nico Paz to Kaká, as he sets out the "Como model" and his Champions League ambitions.
Tuttosport gives its front page to Weston McKennie, under the headline "Juve forever."
#cesc #weston #turkey #como
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Çalhanoğlu has firmly committed his future to Inter. "I want only Inter," runs the headline, with the Turkey midfielder dismissing links to his homeland, "Forget Turkey, I'm staying here", and declaring the Nerazzurri can go all the way in the Champions League, while awaiting the club's call over a new contract. His stance follows the collapse of Galatasaray's long-running interest.
Corriere dello Sport, meanwhile, leads on Cesc Fabregas, who hails Inter as the benchmark of Serie A.
"The peak is Inter," the Como coach declares, praising Lautaro Martínez as the league's finest, "I'd buy him in Fantasy football", and likening his own Nico Paz to Kaká, as he sets out the "Como model" and his Champions League ambitions.
Tuttosport gives its front page to Weston McKennie, under the headline "Juve forever."
#cesc #weston #turkey #como
19 days ago
Man City vs. Inter Milan free live stream: How to watch online without cable originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Manchester City begin a new era in Hong Kong on Saturday, as Enzo Maresca takes charge for the first time following Pep Guardiola's departure, against Inter Milan.
It's a fitting reunion, given City edged Inter 1-0 in the 2023 Champions League final, though the two sides played out a draw when they last met in the 2024 UCL league phase.
Maresca will be without Erling Haaland for the occasion, with the striker still working his way back into full training following his World Cup run, although Antoine ***** yo will play alongside Joško Gvardiol, Phil Foden and others.
Cristian Chivu enters his second season as the Inter manager but will also be without a few of his stars. Lautaro Martínez and Manuel Akanji won't join the club in Hong Kong following a long World Cup tournament. Martínez's Argentina side fell in the final, while Akanji (who joined Inter from City a year ago) and his Swiss team lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
#city #hong
Manchester City begin a new era in Hong Kong on Saturday, as Enzo Maresca takes charge for the first time following Pep Guardiola's departure, against Inter Milan.
It's a fitting reunion, given City edged Inter 1-0 in the 2023 Champions League final, though the two sides played out a draw when they last met in the 2024 UCL league phase.
Maresca will be without Erling Haaland for the occasion, with the striker still working his way back into full training following his World Cup run, although Antoine ***** yo will play alongside Joško Gvardiol, Phil Foden and others.
Cristian Chivu enters his second season as the Inter manager but will also be without a few of his stars. Lautaro Martínez and Manuel Akanji won't join the club in Hong Kong following a long World Cup tournament. Martínez's Argentina side fell in the final, while Akanji (who joined Inter from City a year ago) and his Swiss team lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
#city #hong
23 days ago
The 2026 FIFA World Cup produced memorable individual performances alongside dramatic knockout matches. While Spain lifted the trophy after defeating Argentina in the final, the tournament also highlighted established superstars and introduced a new generation capable of shaping international football for years to come. Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri, Lautaro Martínez, and Mikel Oyarzabal each left a distinct mark on the competition through goals, creativity, leadership, or tactical influence.
Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi remained the heartbeat of Argentina's campaign. Although he did not finish the tournament as champion, he demonstrated once again why he remains one of football's defining players.
Messi contributed both goals and **** ists throughout the knockout rounds, combining composure with outstanding decision-making under pressure. Rather than constantly looking to finish attacks himself, he increasingly orchestrated Argentina's play, creating opportunities for teammates and controlling the tempo during crucial moments.
His performances against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England illustrated how experience can become just as valuable as physical explosiveness. Even without lifting the trophy, Messi's tournament reinforced his remarkable World Cup legacy.
If one player elevated his global reputation more than anyone else, it was Lamine Yamal.
#tournament #lionel #even #knockout
Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi remained the heartbeat of Argentina's campaign. Although he did not finish the tournament as champion, he demonstrated once again why he remains one of football's defining players.
Messi contributed both goals and **** ists throughout the knockout rounds, combining composure with outstanding decision-making under pressure. Rather than constantly looking to finish attacks himself, he increasingly orchestrated Argentina's play, creating opportunities for teammates and controlling the tempo during crucial moments.
His performances against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England illustrated how experience can become just as valuable as physical explosiveness. Even without lifting the trophy, Messi's tournament reinforced his remarkable World Cup legacy.
If one player elevated his global reputation more than anyone else, it was Lamine Yamal.
#tournament #lionel #even #knockout
1 month ago
Where to watch England vs. Argentina live stream, TV channel, start time for World Cup semifinal match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Argentina stands two wins away from history, but they'll face an England team looking to bring the World Cup home for the first time in 60 years.
If Argentina wins in this semifinal match, they and Lionel Messi will be the first repeat World Cup champions since Brazil won back-to-back ****** les in 1958 and 1962. England, meanwhile, is chasing something it hasn't touched since they won the World Cup in 1966 — a spot in the final.
Argentina survived a scare against Switzerland, needing extra time before goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez sealed the win. England needed a similarly dramatic finish against Norway, with Jude Bellingham's brace — including a 93rd-minute winner — proving decisive.
Bellingham's heroics put him in the Golden Boot race with six goals, tied with countryman Harry Kane for fourth, but he'll now face the tournament's co-leader in Messi, who sits tied for first with eight goals.
Argentina stands two wins away from history, but they'll face an England team looking to bring the World Cup home for the first time in 60 years.
If Argentina wins in this semifinal match, they and Lionel Messi will be the first repeat World Cup champions since Brazil won back-to-back ****** les in 1958 and 1962. England, meanwhile, is chasing something it hasn't touched since they won the World Cup in 1966 — a spot in the final.
Argentina survived a scare against Switzerland, needing extra time before goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez sealed the win. England needed a similarly dramatic finish against Norway, with Jude Bellingham's brace — including a 93rd-minute winner — proving decisive.
Bellingham's heroics put him in the Golden Boot race with six goals, tied with countryman Harry Kane for fourth, but he'll now face the tournament's co-leader in Messi, who sits tied for first with eight goals.
1 month ago
What time is England vs. Argentina? Live stream, TV channel, kickoff schedule for World Cup 2026 semifinal match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Argentina is two wins from becoming the first repeat World Cup champion since Brazil's back-to-back ***** les in 1958 and 1962, while England hasn't been this deep in a tournament since winning it all in 1966.
Argentina got here the hard way, needing extra time and late goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez to get past Switzerland, while England also needed extra time, with Jude Bellingham's 93rd-minute winner sinking Norway.
That performance pushed Bellingham into the Golden Boot conversation with six goals, tied with Harry Kane for fourth, but now he'll share the pitch with Lionel Messi, the tournament's joint leader with eight goals.
England actually holds the historical edge overall, up 3-1-1 in World Cup meetings and 6-5-2 in friendlies, though the two sides haven't met since 2005.
Argentina is two wins from becoming the first repeat World Cup champion since Brazil's back-to-back ***** les in 1958 and 1962, while England hasn't been this deep in a tournament since winning it all in 1966.
Argentina got here the hard way, needing extra time and late goals from Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez to get past Switzerland, while England also needed extra time, with Jude Bellingham's 93rd-minute winner sinking Norway.
That performance pushed Bellingham into the Golden Boot conversation with six goals, tied with Harry Kane for fourth, but now he'll share the pitch with Lionel Messi, the tournament's joint leader with eight goals.
England actually holds the historical edge overall, up 3-1-1 in World Cup meetings and 6-5-2 in friendlies, though the two sides haven't met since 2005.
1 month ago
KANSAS CITY, MO — All World Cup, the Argentina national team has been looking for someone other than Lionel Messi to step up when needed most.
After Messi helped the Albiceleste to an extra-time win over Cape Verde in the round of 32 and spurred a round of 16 rally past Egypt, he had a quiet game by his lofty standards in the quarterfinal with Switzerland on Saturday, June 11. He set up the opening goal in the 3-1 extra time win from a corner kick but then watched as forwards Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez were able to score the decisive goals late in the game.
Asked if Alvarez scored in Messi's style on Saturday, the Inter Miami star emphasized that Alvarez has a style all his own.
"No, no, he scored a golazo, but it's not the first time. He's scored several like that. It was a golazo," Messi said, using a word that emphasizes the quality of a well-hit goal. "He has a very good strike of the ball and showed it today. He's been showing it for a long time.
"With Atletico Madrid, he had a lot of goals that were similar, and honestly I'm just happy with the result, because he scored, because Lautaro scored. We needed both of them. I'm very happy with everything."
After Messi helped the Albiceleste to an extra-time win over Cape Verde in the round of 32 and spurred a round of 16 rally past Egypt, he had a quiet game by his lofty standards in the quarterfinal with Switzerland on Saturday, June 11. He set up the opening goal in the 3-1 extra time win from a corner kick but then watched as forwards Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez were able to score the decisive goals late in the game.
Asked if Alvarez scored in Messi's style on Saturday, the Inter Miami star emphasized that Alvarez has a style all his own.
"No, no, he scored a golazo, but it's not the first time. He's scored several like that. It was a golazo," Messi said, using a word that emphasizes the quality of a well-hit goal. "He has a very good strike of the ball and showed it today. He's been showing it for a long time.
"With Atletico Madrid, he had a lot of goals that were similar, and honestly I'm just happy with the result, because he scored, because Lautaro scored. We needed both of them. I'm very happy with everything."
1 month ago
Lautaro Martinez struck in the 121st minute to help Argentina on their way to the 2026 World Cup semi-final in the early hours of Sunday morning, but some feel that the Inter skipper was fortunate to avoid a second yellow and a suspension for the upcoming last-four tie with England. Here's why El Toro escaped punishment.
Lautaro was initially named on the substitutes' bench for Argentina's eventual 3-1 quarter-final win against Switzerland in Kansas City, but emerged off the bench in the 84th minute and contributed his nation's third goal of the night in the 121st minute of the tie to put the game beyond any doubt.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – JULY 11: Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Argentina and Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Lautaro was on a booking at the time of his goal, and some eagle-eyed fans believe that he should have been shown a second yellow and sent off for his celebrations. Had that been the case, the Inter striker would have been suspended for the World Cup semi-final against England coming up on Wednesday night.
That is because Lautaro jumped over the advertising ****** dings and went right up to the Argentina supporters behind the goal while celebrating his 121st-minute settler.
Lautaro was initially named on the substitutes' bench for Argentina's eventual 3-1 quarter-final win against Switzerland in Kansas City, but emerged off the bench in the 84th minute and contributed his nation's third goal of the night in the 121st minute of the tie to put the game beyond any doubt.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – JULY 11: Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring his team's third goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between Argentina and Switzerland at Kansas City Stadium on July 11, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Lautaro was on a booking at the time of his goal, and some eagle-eyed fans believe that he should have been shown a second yellow and sent off for his celebrations. Had that been the case, the Inter striker would have been suspended for the World Cup semi-final against England coming up on Wednesday night.
That is because Lautaro jumped over the advertising ****** dings and went right up to the Argentina supporters behind the goal while celebrating his 121st-minute settler.
1 month ago
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni insisted Wednesday's heavyweight World Cup semi-final against England was "just a football game" after his side beat Switzerland 3-1 in the last eight.
Alexis Mac Allister put the defending champions ahead early in Kansas City on Saturday but Dan Ndoye scored a deserved equaliser midway through the second half.
Disaster struck minutes later for Switzerland when Breel Embolo was shown a second yellow card for simulation, reducing them to 10 men.
Julian Alvarez broke Swiss hearts in the 112th minute before substitute Lautaro Martinez added a last-gasp third.
Argentina now turn their attention to the semi-final in Atlanta, which promises to be a tense encounter.
Alexis Mac Allister put the defending champions ahead early in Kansas City on Saturday but Dan Ndoye scored a deserved equaliser midway through the second half.
Disaster struck minutes later for Switzerland when Breel Embolo was shown a second yellow card for simulation, reducing them to 10 men.
Julian Alvarez broke Swiss hearts in the 112th minute before substitute Lautaro Martinez added a last-gasp third.
Argentina now turn their attention to the semi-final in Atlanta, which promises to be a tense encounter.
1 month ago
Switzerland manager Murat Yakin said his side’s World Cup quarter-final was destroyed by the new mistaken identity rule that led to Breel Embolo being sent off in their 3-1 defeat to Argentina.
Embolo was shown a second yellow card when, initially, Leandro Paredes had been cautioned for a challenge on him – only for referee Joao Pinheiro to review the incident and conclude the Switzerland striker had dived.
But Yakin argued it should never have got that far by saying that Paredes should not have been booked for his challenge and that Embolo was left “shattered” by his red card.
Switzerland had levelled through Dan Ndoye minutes before Embolo was dismissed and went to lose to extra-time goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
And Yakin said: “The VAR and referee, the fact they introduced such a rule is unnecessary and I try to put it in very kind words but I think it is extremely hurtful. We are not going to go to the semi-finals but I think we deserved to be there.
Embolo was shown a second yellow card when, initially, Leandro Paredes had been cautioned for a challenge on him – only for referee Joao Pinheiro to review the incident and conclude the Switzerland striker had dived.
But Yakin argued it should never have got that far by saying that Paredes should not have been booked for his challenge and that Embolo was left “shattered” by his red card.
Switzerland had levelled through Dan Ndoye minutes before Embolo was dismissed and went to lose to extra-time goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
And Yakin said: “The VAR and referee, the fact they introduced such a rule is unnecessary and I try to put it in very kind words but I think it is extremely hurtful. We are not going to go to the semi-finals but I think we deserved to be there.
1 month ago
Julian Alvarez said "you have to know how to suffer" after Argentina came through yet another gruelling World Cup test to beat 10-man Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-finals following extra-time on Saturday.
The Atletico Madrid forward scored Argentina's decisive second goal in the 112th minute in Kansas City to finally end the resistance of the European team.
The Swiss mounted a robust rearguard action after Breel Embolo was dismissed in the second half -- shown a second yellow card for simulation.
But Alvarez eventually broke their hearts with a stunning curling effort into the top corner and Lautaro Martinez added a last-gasp third.
The win follows a gruelling 3-2 victory against Cape Verde in extra-time in the last 32 and an astonishing late comeback to beat Egypt for another 3-2 win.
The Atletico Madrid forward scored Argentina's decisive second goal in the 112th minute in Kansas City to finally end the resistance of the European team.
The Swiss mounted a robust rearguard action after Breel Embolo was dismissed in the second half -- shown a second yellow card for simulation.
But Alvarez eventually broke their hearts with a stunning curling effort into the top corner and Lautaro Martinez added a last-gasp third.
The win follows a gruelling 3-2 victory against Cape Verde in extra-time in the last 32 and an astonishing late comeback to beat Egypt for another 3-2 win.
1 month ago
It was ugly. It was exhausting. But in the end, the world champions did what they always seem to do.
Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a brutal 120-minute scrap against a relentlessly stubborn Switzerland side at Kansas City Stadium. Alexis Mac Allister set the tone early on, nodding home a brilliant Lionel Messi corner inside ten minutes. Then the drop-off happened. Lionel Scaloni’s men took their foot off the gas in the second half, allowing Dan Ndoye to smash home a thoroughly deserved equaliser from a dangerous cross.
The match swung on a red card. Swiss forward Breel Embolo was sent off after picking up a second booking for diving. Despite the man advantage, Argentina had to sweat. It took until the 111th minute of extra time for Julián Alvarez to break the deadlock with a magnificent, curling finish into the top corner. Lautaro Martínez then turned a rebound into an open net with the final kick of the game, putting a slightly deceptive gloss on a chaotic evening in Kansas City.
The Aston Villa goalkeeper commanded his box with total authority. He produced two massive saves, first dealing with an awkward, skipping effort from Granit Xhaka before pulling off a world-class flying stop in extra time. Completely blameless for the Swiss goal.
A frustrating night for the right-back. He looked completely restricted whenever he tried to venture forward and wasted a glorious second-half chance by blazing his shot wide. His positioning was suspect long before he was hooked.
Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after a brutal 120-minute scrap against a relentlessly stubborn Switzerland side at Kansas City Stadium. Alexis Mac Allister set the tone early on, nodding home a brilliant Lionel Messi corner inside ten minutes. Then the drop-off happened. Lionel Scaloni’s men took their foot off the gas in the second half, allowing Dan Ndoye to smash home a thoroughly deserved equaliser from a dangerous cross.
The match swung on a red card. Swiss forward Breel Embolo was sent off after picking up a second booking for diving. Despite the man advantage, Argentina had to sweat. It took until the 111th minute of extra time for Julián Alvarez to break the deadlock with a magnificent, curling finish into the top corner. Lautaro Martínez then turned a rebound into an open net with the final kick of the game, putting a slightly deceptive gloss on a chaotic evening in Kansas City.
The Aston Villa goalkeeper commanded his box with total authority. He produced two massive saves, first dealing with an awkward, skipping effort from Granit Xhaka before pulling off a world-class flying stop in extra time. Completely blameless for the Swiss goal.
A frustrating night for the right-back. He looked completely restricted whenever he tried to venture forward and wasted a glorious second-half chance by blazing his shot wide. His positioning was suspect long before he was hooked.
1 month ago
Argentina don’t do it the easy way but if their defence of their World Cup is increasingly unconvincing, it goes on and on. Kansas City ended up bouncing like Buenos Aires, part of the Midwest resembling an Argentina home game, but euphoric scenes and a glorious goal stood in stark contrast to an utterly uninspired display.
They may not care. Not when they have a grudge match against England to concentrate the minds and a spectacular strike from Julian Alvarez to savour, arrowed into the top corner at the Arrowhead Stadium. Just when it seemed Argentina were hopelessly over-reliant on Lionel Messi, someone else delivered a moment of extreme quality. Then another Argentina centre-forward, Lautaro Martinez, gave the scoreline a flattering sheen in the 121st minute.
And yet it was really a tale of two strikers, neither of them Martinez. Alvarez, with his belated first goal of the World Cup, sent Argentina into a second successive semi-final. Breel Embolo may have cost Switzerland a first in their history. They had levelled and were the better side when his red card, eventual and involving VAR, for diving forced them into a rearguard action. They looked likely to hold out for penalties, Argentina seeming to have precious few ideas how to break them down, until Alvarez’s explosive intervention.
So, once again, Argentina advance in a manner that showed their spirit but highlighted flaws. Theirs looked as simple a route as could be imagined through the knockout stages – Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland – but they turned it into an obstacle course. They have twice gone to extra time, conceded five goals and flirted with elimination at each stage. But they can win games of brinkmanship.
Lionel Scaloni could at least point to his input here. The third goal involved two replacements, Martinez following up to score after Thiago Almada’s shot was blocked. Almada was an impact substitute: he had already flicked the post with a 20-yard drive. Yet Argentina were short of creativity, lacking any threat on the flanks. When Messi had a are quiet game – which still produced an **** ist – they were underwhelming. The captain’s scoring run ended at nine consecutive World Cup matches, another of the statistics that may not be repeated. For too long, however, Argentina looked a one-man team when the one man was enduring a rare off-day. He stirred late on, failing to lob Gregor Kobel and then shooting just wide at the end of regulation time, letting fly a couple of times in extra time. But for much of the evening, he was strolling around Missouri as Argentina were drifting.
They may not care. Not when they have a grudge match against England to concentrate the minds and a spectacular strike from Julian Alvarez to savour, arrowed into the top corner at the Arrowhead Stadium. Just when it seemed Argentina were hopelessly over-reliant on Lionel Messi, someone else delivered a moment of extreme quality. Then another Argentina centre-forward, Lautaro Martinez, gave the scoreline a flattering sheen in the 121st minute.
And yet it was really a tale of two strikers, neither of them Martinez. Alvarez, with his belated first goal of the World Cup, sent Argentina into a second successive semi-final. Breel Embolo may have cost Switzerland a first in their history. They had levelled and were the better side when his red card, eventual and involving VAR, for diving forced them into a rearguard action. They looked likely to hold out for penalties, Argentina seeming to have precious few ideas how to break them down, until Alvarez’s explosive intervention.
So, once again, Argentina advance in a manner that showed their spirit but highlighted flaws. Theirs looked as simple a route as could be imagined through the knockout stages – Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland – but they turned it into an obstacle course. They have twice gone to extra time, conceded five goals and flirted with elimination at each stage. But they can win games of brinkmanship.
Lionel Scaloni could at least point to his input here. The third goal involved two replacements, Martinez following up to score after Thiago Almada’s shot was blocked. Almada was an impact substitute: he had already flicked the post with a 20-yard drive. Yet Argentina were short of creativity, lacking any threat on the flanks. When Messi had a are quiet game – which still produced an **** ist – they were underwhelming. The captain’s scoring run ended at nine consecutive World Cup matches, another of the statistics that may not be repeated. For too long, however, Argentina looked a one-man team when the one man was enduring a rare off-day. He stirred late on, failing to lob Gregor Kobel and then shooting just wide at the end of regulation time, letting fly a couple of times in extra time. But for much of the evening, he was strolling around Missouri as Argentina were drifting.
1 month ago
Julian Alvarez's unstoppable 113th-minute strike sends Argentina through to the 2026 World Cup semi-final at Switzerland's expense. The holders were far from their best in all three knockout stage fixtures so far, but they continued fighting until the end to join a star-studded semi-final lineup.
The three-time winners looked in total control in a cagey first-half as Alexis Mac Allister put them in front in the tenth minute. Lionel Messi produced his tenth World Cup ***** ist with a corner-kick delivery.
Murat Yakin's Switzerland massively improved after the break, and they scored the equalizer with Dan Ndoye slotting it home after a perfect one-two with former Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Rodríguez. However, they were reduced to ten when Breel Embolo saw a second yellow card for a dive following a VAR intervention.
Gregor Kobel faced several shots with Argentina dominating the game after the red card. Borussia Dortmund’s shot-stopper and his defense managed to keep the holder until the final ten minutes of extra-time. Following Alvarez's stunning goal, Lautaro Martinez added a third to seal the victory.
Despite stopping Messi from scoring in ten successive World Cup games, Alvarez, who is pushing for a mega summer transfer, ended Switzerland's dream of reaching a first-ever semi-final. Five Bundesliga players featured in Switzerland's first quarter-final since 1938, while seven more had previous stints in Germany's top-flight league.
The three-time winners looked in total control in a cagey first-half as Alexis Mac Allister put them in front in the tenth minute. Lionel Messi produced his tenth World Cup ***** ist with a corner-kick delivery.
Murat Yakin's Switzerland massively improved after the break, and they scored the equalizer with Dan Ndoye slotting it home after a perfect one-two with former Wolfsburg defender Ricardo Rodríguez. However, they were reduced to ten when Breel Embolo saw a second yellow card for a dive following a VAR intervention.
Gregor Kobel faced several shots with Argentina dominating the game after the red card. Borussia Dortmund’s shot-stopper and his defense managed to keep the holder until the final ten minutes of extra-time. Following Alvarez's stunning goal, Lautaro Martinez added a third to seal the victory.
Despite stopping Messi from scoring in ten successive World Cup games, Alvarez, who is pushing for a mega summer transfer, ended Switzerland's dream of reaching a first-ever semi-final. Five Bundesliga players featured in Switzerland's first quarter-final since 1938, while seven more had previous stints in Germany's top-flight league.
1 month ago
England and Argentina set up a blockbuster World Cup semi-final showdown on Saturday after battling past Norway and Switzerland to book their passage to the last four.
In Miami, two goals from Jude Bellingham gave England a nervy 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway to send the Three Lions into the semi-finals for only the fourth time in history.
Defending champions Argentina later sealed their place in the last four after a nail-biting 3-1 win over 10-man Switzerland at Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium.
Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored in extra time for Argentina, who had been on the ropes after a second-half equaliser from Switzerland's Dan Ndoye cancelled out Alexis Mac Allister's early opener for the holders.
The two results mean that England and Argentina will renew one of the World Cup's most iconic rivalries when they face each other in the semi-finals in Atlanta on Wednesday.
In Miami, two goals from Jude Bellingham gave England a nervy 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway to send the Three Lions into the semi-finals for only the fourth time in history.
Defending champions Argentina later sealed their place in the last four after a nail-biting 3-1 win over 10-man Switzerland at Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium.
Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored in extra time for Argentina, who had been on the ropes after a second-half equaliser from Switzerland's Dan Ndoye cancelled out Alexis Mac Allister's early opener for the holders.
The two results mean that England and Argentina will renew one of the World Cup's most iconic rivalries when they face each other in the semi-finals in Atlanta on Wednesday.
1 month ago
Argentina defeated 10-man Switzerland in extra time after a wonderful Julian Álvarez strike booked their semi-final spot to set up a tantalising tie against England in the final four of the World Cup.
Argentina started fast and took an early lead from a simple corner routine, with Lionel Messi swinging it into Alexis Mac Allister who steered his header home in the first half.
Dan Ndoye and Ricardo Rodriguez responded in the second half with some lovely link up play before the former tucked the ball past Emiliano Martinez in the Argentine goal from a tight angle on the left to equalize.
However, mere minutes later Switzerland would be reduced to ten after a mistaken identity VAR check led to Breel Embolo being booked for simulation. Switzerland played out the remaining 20 plus minutes before heading into extra time.
In extra time, a moment of Álvarez magic put Argentina ahead before substitute Lautaro Martinez scored deep into extra time to seal the victory for the World Cup holders and ensure their **** le defence continued.
Argentina started fast and took an early lead from a simple corner routine, with Lionel Messi swinging it into Alexis Mac Allister who steered his header home in the first half.
Dan Ndoye and Ricardo Rodriguez responded in the second half with some lovely link up play before the former tucked the ball past Emiliano Martinez in the Argentine goal from a tight angle on the left to equalize.
However, mere minutes later Switzerland would be reduced to ten after a mistaken identity VAR check led to Breel Embolo being booked for simulation. Switzerland played out the remaining 20 plus minutes before heading into extra time.
In extra time, a moment of Álvarez magic put Argentina ahead before substitute Lautaro Martinez scored deep into extra time to seal the victory for the World Cup holders and ensure their **** le defence continued.
1 month ago
Argentina went ahead of Switzerland late in extra time on Saturday, as Julián Alvarez scored one of the best goals of the World Cup.
Alvarez found the net in the 112th minute in Kansas City, breaking a 1-1 deadlock in the World Cup quarterfinal.
The Atlético Madrid forward collected a pass on the edge of the area and rifled a right-footed shot into the top corner, giving Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel no chance.
With 10-man Switzerland chasing a late equalizer, Argentina found an insurance goal through Lautaro Martínez in the 121st minute to wrap up a 3-1 win.
Argentina will move on to face England in the semifinal on Wednesday, July 15 in Atlanta.
Alvarez found the net in the 112th minute in Kansas City, breaking a 1-1 deadlock in the World Cup quarterfinal.
The Atlético Madrid forward collected a pass on the edge of the area and rifled a right-footed shot into the top corner, giving Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel no chance.
With 10-man Switzerland chasing a late equalizer, Argentina found an insurance goal through Lautaro Martínez in the 121st minute to wrap up a 3-1 win.
Argentina will move on to face England in the semifinal on Wednesday, July 15 in Atlanta.
1 month ago
WELCOME TO ARROWHEAD STADIUM!!! The iconic home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs is the site of a huge World Cup quarter-final clash between Argentina and Switzerland. The Albiceleste produced a remarkable comeback against Egypt in the last round and are looking for a lot less drama this time around on their way to the semis, but the Swiss have been very solid in all areas throughout the tournament and will provide a brutal test for the reigning champions. This should be all kinds of fun, and you’re welcome to join us to follow and comment all the action. Vamos!
ARGENTINA
Starting XI: Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes, Enzo, Mac Allister; Messi, Julián (4-4-2)
Substitutes: Musso (GK), Rulli (GK), Senesi, Montiel, Otamendi, Medina, Barco, Lo Celso, Palacios, González, Almada, Simeone, Paz, López, Lautaro
SWITZERLAND
ARGENTINA
Starting XI: Martínez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro, Tagliafico; De Paul, Paredes, Enzo, Mac Allister; Messi, Julián (4-4-2)
Substitutes: Musso (GK), Rulli (GK), Senesi, Montiel, Otamendi, Medina, Barco, Lo Celso, Palacios, González, Almada, Simeone, Paz, López, Lautaro
SWITZERLAND
1 month ago
The final Round of 16 tie at the 2026 World Cup ended with Switzerland defeating Colombia on penalties after 120 minutes failed to separate the two sides. The result means Switzerland will face Argentina in the quarter-finals. Manuel Akanji started for Yakin's side and played the entire match. The Inter defender took Switzerland's third penalty in the shootout but fired over the bar. Fortunately for the Swiss, his miss proved costly only momentarily: Sanchez struck the crossbar before Kobel denied Hernandez from the spot, sealing Switzerland's place in the last eight.
It was a hard-fought and balanced encounter at BC Place in Vancouver. Switzerland controlled possession and dictated the tempo, while Colombia defended resolutely and fought fiercely in midfield. The first half produced just one real chance, with Kobel tipping Puerta's curling effort around the post. Switzerland continued to control proceedings after the break but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. The match finally came to life in extra time. First, Lucumí rattled the crossbar with a powerful header before Kobel produced another fine save to keep out Campaz. At the other end, substitute Amdouni was denied by an outstanding stop from Vargas. The final 15 minutes passed without a breakthrough, although Campaz squandered a golden opportunity in the 115th minute after winning possession from Xhaka inside the box. The tie was ultimately decided from the penalty spot. Switzerland converted through Xhaka and Amdouni before Colombia's Sanchez missed after Quintero had scored. Akanji then sent Switzerland's third penalty over the bar, but Kobel responded immediately by saving Hernandez's effort. Itten and Luis Diaz both converted before Ruben Vargas calmly slotted home the decisive penalty, sending Switzerland into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.
Akanji and Switzerland are back in action against Argentina in the early hours of Sunday (03:00 CEST). The quarter-final will see Akanji face Lautaro Martinez, with the two Inter players among the final Nerazzurri still competing for World Cup glory.
It was a hard-fought and balanced encounter at BC Place in Vancouver. Switzerland controlled possession and dictated the tempo, while Colombia defended resolutely and fought fiercely in midfield. The first half produced just one real chance, with Kobel tipping Puerta's curling effort around the post. Switzerland continued to control proceedings after the break but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. The match finally came to life in extra time. First, Lucumí rattled the crossbar with a powerful header before Kobel produced another fine save to keep out Campaz. At the other end, substitute Amdouni was denied by an outstanding stop from Vargas. The final 15 minutes passed without a breakthrough, although Campaz squandered a golden opportunity in the 115th minute after winning possession from Xhaka inside the box. The tie was ultimately decided from the penalty spot. Switzerland converted through Xhaka and Amdouni before Colombia's Sanchez missed after Quintero had scored. Akanji then sent Switzerland's third penalty over the bar, but Kobel responded immediately by saving Hernandez's effort. Itten and Luis Diaz both converted before Ruben Vargas calmly slotted home the decisive penalty, sending Switzerland into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.
Akanji and Switzerland are back in action against Argentina in the early hours of Sunday (03:00 CEST). The quarter-final will see Akanji face Lautaro Martinez, with the two Inter players among the final Nerazzurri still competing for World Cup glory.
1 month ago
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has not been at all negatively swayed by the level of performance produced by Blaugrana transfer target Julián Alvarez at this summer’s World Cup to date.
This comes amid the **** urance that the German remains fully convinced by the talents of the attacker.
Frontman Alvarez is of course currently plying his trade on the international stage, as Argentina work towards retaining their status as world champions.
The 26-year-old, though, has not exactly played a leading role for Lionel Scaloni’s troops. Rotating at centre-forward with Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martínez, Alvarez has not managed either a goal or an **** ist across five appearances to date.
Such struggles had given rise to claims of concern at the aforementioned Barcelona, amid ongoing efforts to bring the former Manchester City man to the Camp Nou from Atlético Madrid.
This comes amid the **** urance that the German remains fully convinced by the talents of the attacker.
Frontman Alvarez is of course currently plying his trade on the international stage, as Argentina work towards retaining their status as world champions.
The 26-year-old, though, has not exactly played a leading role for Lionel Scaloni’s troops. Rotating at centre-forward with Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martínez, Alvarez has not managed either a goal or an **** ist across five appearances to date.
Such struggles had given rise to claims of concern at the aforementioned Barcelona, amid ongoing efforts to bring the former Manchester City man to the Camp Nou from Atlético Madrid.
1 month ago
ATLANTA — Start with 28-3. Add in a healthy dose of the Knicks’ 29-point NBA Finals Game 4 comeback, add a dash of Kick Six for flavor, and you’ll have something like Tuesday’s Argentina-Egypt match, a miracle of will, resilience and opportunity. Only the fact that La Albiceleste beat the Pharaohs in the World Cup’s round of 16, rather than the finals, keeps it from claiming the **** le of greatest comeback in sports history outright.
Down 0-2, with just 12 minutes of regular time left, the defending champions looked doomed. But Argentina has itself a Messi, and when you’ve got a Messi on your roster, you’re always in the fight.
In the 79th minute, Messi curled in toward Egypt’s goal, then popped a chip right up for Cristian Romero to drive home. Just four minutes later, Messi threaded a laser through a thicket of limbs to equalize the match, setting up the inevitable winner in stoppage time. Expect anything different?
Messi doesn’t show much emotion in even the best moments, but on Tuesday, he wept openly on the pitch after the game, surely realizing how close he’d likely just come to the end of his World Cup career. His delirious teammates, meanwhile, decided it would be a good idea to toss him into the air:
“I told him on the pitch to enjoy it because he deserved it,” Lautaro Martinez said in Spanish after the match. “I told him we would keep giving everything, for ourselves, but above all for him, because this is his last World Cup and he has given us so much.”
Down 0-2, with just 12 minutes of regular time left, the defending champions looked doomed. But Argentina has itself a Messi, and when you’ve got a Messi on your roster, you’re always in the fight.
In the 79th minute, Messi curled in toward Egypt’s goal, then popped a chip right up for Cristian Romero to drive home. Just four minutes later, Messi threaded a laser through a thicket of limbs to equalize the match, setting up the inevitable winner in stoppage time. Expect anything different?
Messi doesn’t show much emotion in even the best moments, but on Tuesday, he wept openly on the pitch after the game, surely realizing how close he’d likely just come to the end of his World Cup career. His delirious teammates, meanwhile, decided it would be a good idea to toss him into the air:
“I told him on the pitch to enjoy it because he deserved it,” Lautaro Martinez said in Spanish after the match. “I told him we would keep giving everything, for ourselves, but above all for him, because this is his last World Cup and he has given us so much.”
1 month ago
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez continued his golden run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by helping his nation secure a dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt in the Round of 16. The Argentine retained his place in Lionel Scaloni’s starting XI following a masterclass against Cabo Verde in the Round of 32.
Martinez set up Lionel Messi to score the opening goal of the game, and then found the back of the net in the first half of extra time in the 3-2 win over the Blue Sharks. The Butcher has been outstanding at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, carrying his impressive form with United to the summer’s spectacle.
Martinez starred in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the first group stage game, and also stood out in the 2-0 win over Austria in the group stages. While the United man maintained his position at the heart of the backline alongside Cristian Romero, Scaloni made three changes to the starting XI for Tuesday’s game.
Nicolas Tagliafico replaced Facundo Medina at left-back, while Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez were drafted in for Thiago Almada and Lautaro Martinez. Scaloni was determined to avoid an upset following the untimely exits of Portugal and Brazil from the Round of 16.
Argentina arrived at the game as the overwhelming favourites but were stunned when Egypt took the lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute. The reigning world champions rallied but failed to break Hossam Hassan’s resolute side.
Martinez set up Lionel Messi to score the opening goal of the game, and then found the back of the net in the first half of extra time in the 3-2 win over the Blue Sharks. The Butcher has been outstanding at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, carrying his impressive form with United to the summer’s spectacle.
Martinez starred in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the first group stage game, and also stood out in the 2-0 win over Austria in the group stages. While the United man maintained his position at the heart of the backline alongside Cristian Romero, Scaloni made three changes to the starting XI for Tuesday’s game.
Nicolas Tagliafico replaced Facundo Medina at left-back, while Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez were drafted in for Thiago Almada and Lautaro Martinez. Scaloni was determined to avoid an upset following the untimely exits of Portugal and Brazil from the Round of 16.
Argentina arrived at the game as the overwhelming favourites but were stunned when Egypt took the lead through Yasser Ibrahim in the 15th minute. The reigning world champions rallied but failed to break Hossam Hassan’s resolute side.
1 month ago
Lionel Messi was left in tears after helping inspire Argentina to a dramatic comeback win over Egypt and book their place in the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals.
While Cristiano Ronaldo was crying as he exited the World Cup stage for likely the final time following Portugal’s late 1-0 loss to Spain last night, 24 hours later his great rival Messi was shedding tears of pure relief.
Reigning champions Argentina looked set for a shock exit at the hands of a valiant Egypt team as they trailed 2-0 with just 11 minutes left to play in Atlanta.
However, the South Americans showed a champions’ resolve as Cristian Romero headed them back into it on 79 minutes before Messi – who had missed a first-half penalty to become the first player in World Cup history to miss two spot-kicks, excluding shootouts, at the same tournament – half-volleyed the equaliser four minutes later.
And, with extra time looming, Enzo Fernandez stepped up to head home Lautaro Martinez’s sumptuous back-post cross in injury time, as his sad narrowly escaped World Cup disaster.
While Cristiano Ronaldo was crying as he exited the World Cup stage for likely the final time following Portugal’s late 1-0 loss to Spain last night, 24 hours later his great rival Messi was shedding tears of pure relief.
Reigning champions Argentina looked set for a shock exit at the hands of a valiant Egypt team as they trailed 2-0 with just 11 minutes left to play in Atlanta.
However, the South Americans showed a champions’ resolve as Cristian Romero headed them back into it on 79 minutes before Messi – who had missed a first-half penalty to become the first player in World Cup history to miss two spot-kicks, excluding shootouts, at the same tournament – half-volleyed the equaliser four minutes later.
And, with extra time looming, Enzo Fernandez stepped up to head home Lautaro Martinez’s sumptuous back-post cross in injury time, as his sad narrowly escaped World Cup disaster.
2 months ago
Nico Paz and his Argentina side finished the group stage as leaders of Group J after three consecutive wins – the most recent against Jordan. Paz had played in Argentina’s first game as a second-half substitute. He did not feature against Austria. However, in the final game of their season, Lionel Scaloni opted to give minutes to players who had been waiting on the sidelines.
Giovanni Lo Celso opened the scoring, firing a free-kick into the top-left corner after Mohannad Abu Taha had fouled him on the edge of the box. Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead from the spot, sending Yazeed Yazeed Abulaila the wrong way after Nizar Al Rashdan’s high boot caught Senesi. Mousa Tamari pulled one back for Jordan, turning in Ehsan Haddad’s cross. Leo Messi sealed it, curling a free-kick around the wall for his record-extending 19th World Cup goal.
Nico Paz played 61 minutes. He was tidy in possession, completing 50 of 53 passes (94%) and both long **** , with two successful dribbles from five. He won four of nine ground duels and made four recoveries.
Giovanni Lo Celso opened the scoring, firing a free-kick into the top-left corner after Mohannad Abu Taha had fouled him on the edge of the box. Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead from the spot, sending Yazeed Yazeed Abulaila the wrong way after Nizar Al Rashdan’s high boot caught Senesi. Mousa Tamari pulled one back for Jordan, turning in Ehsan Haddad’s cross. Leo Messi sealed it, curling a free-kick around the wall for his record-extending 19th World Cup goal.
Nico Paz played 61 minutes. He was tidy in possession, completing 50 of 53 passes (94%) and both long **** , with two successful dribbles from five. He won four of nine ground duels and made four recoveries.
2 months ago
It's too easy for him.
Yet despite starting on the bench for the match between Argentina and Jordan on the final day of the 2026 World Cup group stage, Leo Messi still managed to claim another record.
Brought on at the hour mark in place of Lautaro Martinez, the Argentine legend managed to find the net with a cleverly taken direct free kick.
A goal that makes him the only player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches with at least one goal in each!
La Pulga has now scored in succession against Australia (x1), the Netherlands (x2), Croatia (x1), France (x2), Algeria (x3), Austria (x2), and now Jordan (x1).
Yet despite starting on the bench for the match between Argentina and Jordan on the final day of the 2026 World Cup group stage, Leo Messi still managed to claim another record.
Brought on at the hour mark in place of Lautaro Martinez, the Argentine legend managed to find the net with a cleverly taken direct free kick.
A goal that makes him the only player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches with at least one goal in each!
La Pulga has now scored in succession against Australia (x1), the Netherlands (x2), Croatia (x1), France (x2), Algeria (x3), Austria (x2), and now Jordan (x1).
