Latest news with #LaAlbiceleste
Fox Sports
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
The Road to World Cup 2026: What to expect from the biggest teams
The 2026 World Cup is one year away, and the countdown is on to see which teams will qualify for the largest-ever edition of the world's most popular sporting event. So far, only 13 of the 48 teams - including the co-hosts Canada, Mexico and the United States – are officially in. Argentina, winner of the 2022 World Cup, is also set. But even though the full field is still not complete – qualification will go through next March 2026 before the first game kicks off on June 11 – we're expecting the world's best sides to be vying for the trophy. There will be plenty of twists and turns as teams fight for those coveted spots, but we've identified 12 sides to keep an eye on, including the three co-hosts. These teams are packed with some of the world's biggest stars and include some of the heavy favorites to win it all. Let's dive into why we hope (and expect) to see them next summer. The road to '26: Argentina are still basking in the glow from their triumph in Qatar and almost every match this cycle has had the feel of a victory tour. Lionel Scaloni's men added another Copa América title to their collection and cruised through South American qualifying, securing a World Cup berth with five rounds to spare. The opportunity now beckons to become the first repeat World Cup winners since Brazil in 1962, while Scaloni can join Italy's Vittorio Pozzo as the only managers to win two World Cups. Not much has changed since Qatar, save for Ángel Di María's international retirement and the emergence of talented youngsters like Franco Mastantuono. Lionel Messi still commands the spotlight, though Argentina proved they are much more than Messi by dismantling Brazil this past March without their injured star. With prolific strikers Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, and a midfield built around the likes of Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister, Argentina has no intention of relinquishing their crown. - Mosse The keys to success: Where to begin? What we learned from the Copa América last year is that this is a team that doesn't need Lionel Messi to be a superstar to win trophies. Of course, Lionel Scaloni has said Lionel Messi can and will be part of the national team for as long as he wants. But Argentina has a laundry list of talent playing at the highest levels around Europe who could lead La Albiceleste to another World Cup title. As one of the best goalkeepers in the world, Emiliano Martinez has proven it for both club (Aston Villa) and country. He has a highlight reel and trophy cabinet to prove it. Alexis Mac Allister may only be 26, but he plays more like a veteran in the midfield for both Argentina and Liverpool, who he just helped win the Premier League. And then there's Julián Alvarez, the young and gifted forward who has been killing it for new club Atlético Madrid, where he scored 29 goals across all competitions this season. - Litman The road to '26: Brazil finally got their man in Carlo Ancelotti, hiring the five-time UEFA Champions League winner as the team's new manager earlier this month. But the Italian has plenty of work to do to repair the damage from what's been a disastrous cycle so far. A quarterfinal elimination at the Copa América and disappointing results in qualifying have Brazil at their lowest ebb in a very long time. Ancelotti's first priority is to build a midfield that can exert control over games. The coach who jumpstarted Vinícius Júnior's Real Madrid career must also solve the riddle of why the talented winger can't reproduce the same form for his country. And it wouldn't hurt to have a healthy Neymar back in the fold, though that seems less likely by the day. No non-Brazilian manager has ever won a men's World Cup with this team, so Brazil are hoping Ancelotti can make history next year. One positive omen is that Brazil captured the 1994 World Cup in the United States, ending a 24-year title drought. The five-time champions will go into next summer exactly 24 years removed from their last triumph. - Mosse The keys to success: The five-time champions have been in a rut – just last summer the squad was eliminated in the Copa América quarterfinal after losing to a 10-man Uruguay team in a penalty shootout. Despite an insanely talented and entertaining roster, the Seleção must find another level in order to make a deep run. That will require players like Vinícius (the 2024 Best FIFA Men's Player), Neymar (who has battled injuries and been out of the recent spotlight), Alisson Becker(one of the top goalkeepers in the world who just won the Premier League with Liverpool) and Raphinha (the Barcelona forward scored a career-high 34 goals in all competitions this season) to lead the way and shed any negative stigma currently associated with the team. - Litman The road to '26: Gareth Southgate's tenure ended with another near miss, as England finished runners-up to Spain at Euro 2024. The task now falls to Thomas Tuchel to guide the Three Lions to their first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup. Tuchel is the third non-English coach this century for this team, following Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. The German will have plenty of talent at his disposal, particularly upfront with Harry Kane still one of the finest strikers on the planet. Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice are capable of controlling the center of the park, while England's conveyor belt has produced another dazzling left-footed winger in Cole Palmer to go with Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka. There are questions at the back, but those didn't prevent the Three Lions from reaching the final of the last two Euros. England has only ever lifted the World Cup on home soil, and there would be a delicious irony if that drought ended in the very summer in which the United States is celebrating 250 years of independence. - Mosse The keys to success: One of the biggest storylines surrounding this team is the fact that we're now in the Thomas Tuchel era after Gareth Southgate's resignation. Another will be how desperate England wants to win a major tournament after falling short at Euro 2024. At the last World Cup, the Three Lions ran into a hot France team in the quarterfinal. If the team is to go further this time and win, it will need the best performances out of what is arguably one of the most talented and deep rosters in the world. There's Harry Kane, who won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich this season and is anxious to win a World Cup at his age (he'll be 32 next summer). Jude Bellingham, who is only 21 years old and has already won a LaLiga championship and Champions League with Real Madrid. Bukayo Saka, who has become Arsenal's most lethal attacker, will also be a key playmaker. - Litman The road to '26: France came agonizingly close to retaining the World Cup crown in Qatar, and their pedigree in recent decades is the envy of every other nation. Les Bleus have reached the final in four of the last seven World Cups, winning two and dropping the other two on penalties. Their focus is on reclaiming the trophy next year. Didier Deschamps will manage in his fourth and final World Cup, bringing the curtain down on a tenure that, remarkably, stretches back to July 2012. Such is the wealth of talent at Deschamps' disposal that Ousmane Dembele may very well win the Ballon d'Or this year and still end up playing second fiddle to Kylian Mbappe in 2026. Mbappé has found the back of the net 12 times in the last two World Cups, including a hat-trick against Argentina in the 2022 final. Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup goals is very much in sight, and while Mbappé was unable to prevent semifinal defeats to Spain in both Euro 2024 and last week's UEFA Nations League, the Real Madrid star has his eyes on the ultimate prize. - Mosse The keys to success: The thing about France is you can never count this team out. Who could forget the 2022 World Cup final when it seemed like Argentina had the trophy wrapped up until Kylian Mbappé scored that memorable hat -trick (only for Argentina to win on penalties) in what will probably always be considered the wildest World Cup final in history? Just check out the wealth of talent that nearly helped France pull off a stunning comeback against Spain in the UEFA Nations League semifinals last week. Mbappé scored, as did Rayan Cherki (who just moved from Lyon to Manchester City) and Juventus striker Randal Kolo Muani. PSG duo Ousmane Dembélé and Desire Doue were also dangerous in the attack against Spain, hoping to capitalize on their recent Champions League success. We could potentially see this matchup once again in a World Cup final, and expect these stars to shine if Les Bleus are there. - Litman The road to '26: It seems hard to believe that Germany's 2014 final victory over Argentina represents their last World Cup knockout match. After crashing out in the group stage in both Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022, the Germans will have plenty to prove next summer. The question is whether this squad boasts enough quality to recapture past glory. Germany fell to Spain in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals and to Portugal in the semifinals of last week's UEFA Nations League, both on home soil, and their trophy drought stretches back to the 2017 Confederations Cup. The good news is that both Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz have emerged as genuine stars who can command the spotlight in 2026. The pair will be counted on for inspiration, while veterans Antonio Rudiger and Joshua Kimmich should anchor the back line. But the lack of an elite center forward may prove costly, and the international retirements of Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller and Toni Kroos have robbed Germany of any links to their last era of success. - Mosse The keys to success: It's still hard to believe that four-time champion Germany failed to make it out of the group stage at the 2022 World Cup. For what it's worth, that squad didn't have Bayern Leverkusan's Florian Wirtz, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder who could be playing for Liverpool by the time he suits up for Germany at the 2026 World Cup. Wirtz is a versatile player who can play on either wing or as a No. 9 or No. 10 and scored the lone goal for Die Mannschaft in the 2-1 loss last week to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League. Additionally, Real Madrid center back Antonio Rüdiger is reliable in the back line and Marc-André ter Stegen, one of the best goalkeepers in the world, will play key roles if Germany is to make any kind of run next summer. - Litman The road to '26: The first step towards success in 2026 is qualifying for the tournament, something no Italian will take for granted after missing out on the last two World Cups. Provided the four-time champions can punch their ticket for 2026, Italy will then have to find some genuine solutions in attack. For all their reputation as the land of Catenaccio, Italy have produced some of the most gifted players in the world in recent decades, from Roberto Baggio to Alessandro Del Piero to Francesco Totti. But those players have seemingly vanished from Italian football, leaving the national team shockingly bereft of ideas in recent years. The rest of the picture is less gloomy. Sandro Tonali and Nico Barella are the lynchpins of a quality midfield, while Alessandro Bastoni will anchor a back line playing in front of the most in-form goalkeeper on the planet in Gianluigi Donnarumma. But more is needed if Italy are to make any kind of deep run next summer. - Mosse The keys to success: After the remarkable run to the Euro 2020 title, this team then lost a playoff semifinal match to North Macedonia that kept the Italians out of the 2022 World Cup (they didn't qualify for 2018, either). Perhaps the luck of Gli Azzurri will change. For one, they have Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, who had six clean sheets for PSG in the Champions League this season, including in the 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the final. They don't call him "The Wall" for nothing. Then there's Inter Milan's Nicolo Barella, the heart of the Italian midfield who could quite literally cover an entire pitch if he needed to. If Italy qualifies this time – and gets out of its group – these guys will be a major reason why. - Litman The road to '26: So much of the discourse around Portugal in recent years has centered on Cristiano Ronaldo's role, given that he failed to find the back of the net in the knockout stage of the last two World Cups and the last two Euros. But manager Roberto Martinez has continued to place his faith in Ronaldo and that likely won't change next summer. The 40-year-old is poised to play in his sixth World Cup, having scored in the previous five, and the good news is he'll be surrounded by a supporting cast sparkling with talent. Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Rafael Leao can all be counted on to provide inspiration, while Vitinha is one of the very best midfielders on the planet. Ruben Dias anchors the back line and Diogo Costa represents a safe pair of hands in goal. It all adds up to a team more than capable of making a deep run, as evidenced by their recent UEFA Nations League triumph. But much will depend on Ronaldo once again turning back the clock and delivering when it matters most. - Mosse The keys to success: The obvious answer here is Cristiano Ronaldo. We can't forget the drama that followed him at the 2022 World Cup – he was benched and later brought on as a sub; then he left the pitch in tears following Portugal's quarterfinal loss to Morocco. But he did score in Portugal's Nations League final victory over Spain, and is still the national team captain. He'll be 41 at the 2026 World Cup and nothing would mean more than to win the country's first-ever trophy in the tournament. Other key players for this Portugal side will be goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who also showed off his heroics against Germany in the UEFA Nations League, as well as PSG midfielder Vitinha, who just helped his club win the Champions League. - Litman The road to '26: The Netherlands remain the most accomplished soccer nation yet to win a World Cup. The Dutch have been runners-up three times and fell on penalties to eventual champions Argentina in the quarterfinals in Qatar. This cycle has already featured another near miss in the form of a semifinal exit at Euro 2024. Whether the Netherlands can finally get over the hump next year may depend on whether Cody Gakpo scores enough goals to take some of the pressure off the aging Memphis Depay. Neither one will be starved for service thanks to the emerging Xavi Simons, and the dynamic Denzel Dumfries flying down the wing. Frenkie de Jong, Tijjani Reijnders and Ryan Gravenberch provide plenty of quality in the midfield, while Virgil van Dijk is still an imposing figure at the back. The Dutch won't be lacking in talent, and the hope is that, if they once again arrive at the latter stages of a World Cup, the breaks might just go their way for a change. - Mosse The keys to success: The Netherlands have come oh-so-close to winning a World Cup – they've made the final three times – but to no avail. The Oranje were knocked out in Qatar by eventual champions Argentina following a dramatic quarterfinal penalty shootout, otherwise there's a good chance they would have made a deeper run. Regardless, a talented roster will be assembled, including captain Virgil Van Dijk, who some would consider to be the best center back in the world. The 6'5" Liverpool defender is strong on the ball and in the air, and is not a player an attacker wants to see coming. He's flanked by fullback Denzel Dumfries, who helped Inter Milan reach the Champions League final, and supported by Barcelona's Frenkie de Jong, who controls the midfield. - Litman The road to '26: With all their success in other competitions of late, it's easy to forget that Spain have underwhelmed in each of the last three World Cups, crashing out in the group stage in 2014, followed by round-of-16 exits in both 2018 and 2022. But another early elimination seems unlikely. In fact, Spain might just be the clear-cut favorite in 2026. It has been a remarkable trophy haul so far in this cycle with the Spanish capturing the 2023 UEFA Nations League title, followed by both the Euros and the Olympic gold medal in 2024. A World Cup crown would be the icing on the cake, and it's difficult to bet against them given the presence of Lamine Yamal, a player displaying a level of preciousness not seen since Pele. The Barcelona teenager headlines an explosive attack that includes Nico Williams, while a midfield featuring Pedri and Ballon d'Or winner Rodri will likely ensure that Spain controls every game next summer. Spain captured the 2010 World Cup with one of the greatest teams of all-time, and this current group feels like worthy successors. - Mosse The keys to success: This team is the favorite to win the World Cup. The reigning European champions just seem to keep getting better and better as Lamine Yamal gets more experienced (probably not a coincidence!). The 17-year-old winger is coming off a stellar season with Barcelona where at times he looked like the best player in the world. Yamal plays free and fearless, and exudes joy on the pitch. He's supported by top talents like Manchester City midfielder and 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who is currently coming back from a knee injury, as well as club teammate Pedri, who is lethal on the dribble and is one of the most creative midfielders in the game right now. - Litman The road to '26: After reaching the round of 16 in Qatar with the second-youngest squad in the tournament, expectations were supposed to be sky high for the United States in 2026. But concerns began to creep in after a disappointing group stage exit at last year's Copa América, which ultimately cost Gregg Berhalter his job as manager. His replacement Mauricio Pochettino then presided over defeats to Panama and Canada in the Concacaf Nations League, raising further doubts about whether this generation of players is golden after all. The good news is Pochettino has 12 months to address current problems and the potential still exists for a successful campaign on home soil. Christian Pulisic will need to be a genuine match-winner to make up for the lack of a prolific center forward. Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie should help form a strong midfield, while Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson can provide inspiration from the flanks. Question marks do remain at both center back and in goal. - Mosse The keys to success: There's a lot to be concerned about as it pertains to the 2026 World Cup co-hosts. After a disastrous Concacaf Nations League in March, which saw the USMNT flame out in losses to Panama and Canada, the team was heavily criticized for being entitled and not caring enough about playing for their country. To make matters worse, the team's biggest stars like Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie are among a larger group that will not play in this summer's Gold Cup, which is the last competitive tournament the team will play in before the World Cup since they don't have to qualify. How will new manager Mauricio Pochettino come up with a roster for next summer that is cohesive, understands each other's tendencies and can win tough games together? That will remain a massive question for the next 12 months. - Litman The road to '26: Mexico entered the last World Cup with visions of getting over the round-of-16 hump, but they failed to even make it out of the group stage. Tata Martino presided over that disastrous campaign, and the lack of success under him has prompted El Tri to turn back to a familiar face on the bench. Javier Aguirre will manage Mexico at a World Cup for the third time, having previously taken charge in 2002 and 2010. His experience paid off this past March in helping the team capture the Concacaf Nations League crown which, coupled with a Gold Cup title in 2023, has allowed Mexico fans to regain some of their swagger. The main catalyst for Mexico's improvement has been the return to health of Raul Jimenez, and the Fulham striker will likely be paired with Santiago Gimenez next year. The tournament co-hosts also won't be lacking support, and with Edson Alvarez providing leadership at the back, the pieces might just be in place for a surprising run. - Mosse The keys to success: If the U.S. is a co-host that's feeling uncertain about its World Cup preparation, Mexico is the opposite. El Tri was crowned Concacaf Nations League champs in March and is a favorite to dominate and defend its Gold Cup title this summer. Forwards Santiago Gimenez (AC Milan) and Raul Jimenez (Fulham) are building chemistry up top and should be an easy reason for fans to feel optimistic about 2026. Mexico has never made it past the quarterfinal stage of the World Cup, but if that attacking duo is clicking and in sync, things could get interesting. - Litman The road to '26: Canada's first World Cup appearance since 1986 didn't last very long, as they dropped all three games in Qatar, exiting at the group stage. But the Canucks get a second bite at the apple, this time as tournament co-hosts, and the arrival of American manager Jesse Marsch has raised hopes for a successful campaign. Marsch proved his worth by orchestrating a semifinal run at last year's Copa América, and a Concacaf Nations League win over the U.S. this past March also endeared him to fans. That victory did come at a cost with Alphonso Davies tearing his ACL, but the Bayern Munich standout is expected back well before the start of the World Cup. Davies headlines a talented generation that includes midfielder Stephen Eustaquio, and the prolific strike pairing of Jonathan David and Cyle Larin. David in particular could be one of next summer's breakout stars, and a strong performance from him would go a long way towards helping Canada confirm all their recent progress. - Mosse The key players to success: Canada won't have defender Alphonso Davies for this summer's Gold Cup while he continues to recover from the torn ACL he sustained vs. the United States in the Nations League, but he's certainly expected to return and be at full fitness in time for the 2026 World Cup. Davies, who is only 24, is a strong and speedy presence on the left side and has been a reliable defender for Bayern Munich since 2019. Elsewhere, Jonathan David is a player who could really use this summer's Gold Cup as an opportunity to boost his stock ahead of what will be an important 2026 for the dynamic forward. David has said he will leave French club Lille when his contract expires, and he'll be a huge get for a bigger European club. David, 25, is Canada's men's all-time leading goalscorer (32 goals in 61 games) and will have plenty of expectations put on his shoulders next summer. - Litman Laken Litman covers college football, college basketball and soccer for FOX Sports. She previously wrote for Sports Illustrated, USA Today and The Indianapolis Star. She is the author of "Strong Like a Woman," published in spring 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of Title IX. Follow her at @LakenLitman . David Mosse is a researcher for FOX Sports and co-host of Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast. recommended Get more from FIFA Men's World Cup Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
NBC Sports
11-06-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Biggest storylines one year out from 2026 World Cup
The 2026 World Cup on American, Mexican and Canadian soil is 365 days out — June 11, 2026 — which means we are officially in a World Cup year. MORE — 2026 World Cup predictions | Who will start for USMNT? What are the big storylines on the field exactly one year away from kickoff in Mexico City, and what can we look forward to next summer in the United States, Mexico and Canada? Will Argentina become just third nation to win back-to-back World Cups? Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962) are the only nations to ever do it and it hasn't happened in over 60 years. What a way for Lionel Messi to (presumably) end his international career, which should reach the unthinkable 200-cap mark sometime in 2026, perhaps even during the World Cup (193 currently). La Albiceleste have not only already qualified, but they are the runaway winners of South American qualifying with a 10-point gap between themselves and everyone else, and just two games left to play. 2022 World Cup: check. 2024 Copa America: check. Can Messi and Co., make it three straight major tournaments a la Spain in 2008, 2010 and 2012? Only, Argentina's treble would be slightly more impressive as Spain sandwiched a single World Cup between two European Championships. Which host nation will make the deepest run? At any given moment during the past year or two, the obvious answer would have been the USMNT and its so-called golden generation. But, uh, things have changed since the calendar flipped over to 2025. Back-to-back defeats, to Panama and Canada, in the Nations League semifinals and third-place game back in March, followed by the announcement that Christian Pulisic will be taking the summer off and excusing himself from the Gold Cup squad (also without Antonee Robinson, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Gio Reyna and Folarin Balogun), and the vibes are decidedly very bad for Mauricio Pochettino's team. Meanwhile, Mexico are beginning to find their way under Javier Aguirre and Canada have the feel of a long-established club side under Jesse Marsch. Since Copa America last summer, the answer has gone from 'definitely the USMNT,' to 'let's just see how the group-stage draw plays out.' Lamine Yamal set for World Cup debut at 18 years old The next Lionel Messi Lamine Yamal might already be the best player in the world right now and he doesn't even turn 18 until July 13, meaning he will still be 18 when the 2026 World Cup kicks off and will turn 19 the day before the semifinals begin and six days before the final. With good injury luck throughout his career, Yamal could match Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo with six World Cup appearances by the time he turns 38 in 2046. If that doesn't make you feel old, nothing will. Most 18-year-olds are equipped to lead the likes of Spain to World Cup glory, but then again most 16-year-olds are supposed to star for the EURO winners either, and here we are. 48 teams means more first-timers at the World Cup With the field expanding to 48 teams next summer, a handful of nations are going to qualify for the first time and that's what the World Cup is all about — sharing the game with the world, both new and old. So far, Uzbekistan (the White Wolves) and Jordan (the Chivalrous Ones) have clinched their World Cup debuts through Asian qualifying, and Oman could still join them. In South America, Venezuela have never qualified and are currently in position to reach the inter-confederation playoffs. Curacao, Guatemala, Nicaragua and Suriname are all through to the final round in CONCACAF thanks to the three host nations bypassing qualifying. New Caledonia reached the final in Oceania but were beaten by New Zealand and will head to the playoffs as well. In Africa, Cape Verde sit top of their group after having never entered qualifying prior to 2002. And all of that is before most of UEFA qualifying has even kicked off, with a staggering 16 places up for grabs. How much will weather play a factor? For anyone that has never spent a summer in the United States, let me tell you a little something: It's typically really hot and humid, almost regardless of where you are. Six of the 16 stadiums have either fixed roofs or can close an open-air roof, and that covers 15 of the 32 knockout round games, but teams that don't play many (or any) of their games in Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Mexico City or Vancouver will be at a significant competitive disadvantage by the time the business end of the tournament rolls around.
Daily Mirror
11-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
What Lionel Messi said to James Rodriguez in angry on-pitch confrontation
Lionel Messi was involved in an angry confrontation with James Rodriguez during Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Tuesday night, with the game ultimately ending in a draw Lionel Messi angrily clashed with James Rodriguez during Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Colombia on Tuesday night. Messi captained La Albiceleste at the Estadio Mâs Monumental. Lionel Scaloni's side have already booked their place in next summer's tournament and sit top of the South America qualifying group by 10 points. They hosted sixth-place Colombia, in a rematch of last year's Copa America final. Argentina won that game, held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, thanks to Lautaro Martinez's extra-time goal. Rodriguez was captain of Colombia that night, while Argentina skipper Messi was forced off through injury with 24 minutes of normal time to play. Back in March, Rodriguez claimed that Colombia did not win due to 'external factors'. The former Real Madrid star hit out at the refereeing team for their performance during the final. 'Yes, we had an excellent Copa," he said. "Personally, it was spectacular. We wanted the title and came close, but due to external factors, we couldn't be champions of the Americas. The referee didn't award two penalties, and for me, one of them was clear. "VAR audio recordings were shown in every match, but not in the final; something strange happened there. We were on the side of the draw that included Brazil, Uruguay, and the strong opponents, and they were on the side where their opponents were weaker. "They've won everything. I'm not saying they're a team that doesn't deserve to win because if they were champions, it's because they deserved it, but it's true that these external factors influenced us and held us back.' Four months later and it appears those comments did not go down well with Messi and the Argentina squad. During Tuesday's game, Rodriguez became involved in a confrontation with a number of Argentina players, with Messi heading over to push him away. As he did so, the duo could be seen talking to each in an animated fashion. They continued their discussion with their hands covering their mouths, with Rodriguez caught by surprise by a comment from Messi. According to TyC Sports, Messi approached Rodriguez to say: "You said they helped us in the final. You talk a lot." Rodriguez responded by insisting: "I didn't say anything." After the game, Rodriguez refused to discuss the interaction, saying: "What stays on the field, stays on the field." Messi was substituted with 12 minutes to go as his side fought back from a goal down to secure a draw, with boss Scaloni admitting he had not been planning to take off the superstar. "In principle, he wasn't going to come off, but when he saw that we were making two substitutions, he told me that it was better for him to come off, and I took him off, otherwise he wouldn't have come off," Scaloni said. "You know how it works and what I think. I think the best thing about the team is their constant desire to try, which is always valuable."
The Independent
11-06-2025
- Sport
- The Independent
Lionel Messi confronts James Rodriguez in tense exchange during Argentina vs Colombia
Lionel Messi confronted James Rodriguez as tensions boiled over during Argentina 's feisty World Cup qualifier with Colombia. The Inter Miami superstar was caught on camera engaging in a war of words with Rodriguez, with it reported that Messi was riled by the ex-Real Madrid midfielder's recent comments about the 2024 Copa America final. That game saw Argentina emerge 1-0 victors after extra time, with Lautaro Martinez 's 112th-minute winner sealing a third consecutive major tournament triumph for La Albiceleste. In March, Rodriguez said: "We had an excellent Copa America. Obviously, we wanted the title, but we didn't win the Copa America because of external things, I think. The referee favoured Argentina. He didn't give us penalties. For me a clear one." And according to TyC Sports, the Argentina captain decided to address those claims in the midst of his side's world cup qualifier at the Estadio Mas Monumental. Messi reportedly said: "You said they helped us in the final. You talk a lot." Rodriguez came back with the reply: "I didn't say anything." The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was later questioned om the exchange, but refused to go into the controversy. "What stays on the field, stays on the field,' he said. Argentina would rescue a draw on the night despite going a man down following Enzo Fernandez 's dismissal, with Thiago Almada producing a fine strike to level in the 81st minute. Nevertheless, it was the stunning opener of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz that stole the show, dancing through the Argentina defence before finishing off an awe-inspiring individual effort to give Colombia the lead in the first half.
Fox Sports
11-06-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
26 stars for '26: The top players who could define the World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in one year, and we expect to see plenty of top players at the 48-team tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer. While there are still spots up for grabs (only 13 countries have officially qualified), big names like Argentina's Lionel Messi and Brazil's Vinícius Júnior are set to appear. Other elite playmakers like France's Kylian Mbappe and Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo should join them, while youngsters like Spain's Lamine Yamal could be set for a breakout summer. Looking ahead to next year, these 26 players (listed in alphabetical order) could define the 2026 World Cup. FOX Sports soccer reporters Doug McIntyre and Laken Litman break down why we're excited to see those stars. Let's get into it! _____ Why he makes the list: Alvarez scored 29 goals across all competitions in his first season with Atlético Madrid. He's a difference-maker, technical on the ball and has much more potential to grow into for both club and country. We won't have to wait until the 2026 World Cup to see him on the big stage as Alvarez will be in the spotlight this summer when he plays in the FIFA Club World Cup. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Alvarez was one of the youngest players on Argentina's World Cup-winning squad in 2022. Now, still only 25, he has that experience in his back pocket and can likely play an even larger role for Lionel Scaloni's squad in 2026 to help La Albiceleste defend its title. _____ Why he makes the list: In his first season in Spain's capital during the 2023-24 campaign, Bellingham was a revelation, leading Los Blancos to both the La Liga and Champions League titles. He then took England to the final of Euro 2024, firmly establishing himself as one of the game's greatest midfielders. What this World Cup '26 would mean: After coming close to helping the Three Lions claim England's first major trophy in almost 60 years, Bellingham surely has his sights set on the World Cup. Unfortunately for the 21-year-old, his supporting cast (beyond Harry Kane, anyway) probably isn't up for the task. _____ Why he makes the list: In March, "Fonzie" had surgery to repair the torn ACL he suffered playing for Les Rouges against the U.S. in the Concacaf Nations League's consolation match. The injury is a major setback for one of soccer's fastest players, but the good news is that he should have enough time to recover and captain Jesse Marsch's team in front of what's sure to be a sea of red for the Canadians' group stage games in Toronto and Vancouver. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Davies, Canada's best ever player, helped the country snap a 36-year World Cup appearance drought three years ago. But they lost all three games in Qatar, and they're still winless all-time on soccer's grandest stage. During his once-in-a lifetime opportunity to play in a World Cup at home, Davies will be aiming to make a little more history. _____ Why he makes the list: Some have called Dembele the best player in the world in 2025. It's not so farfetched given the forward led Ligue 1 with 27 goal contributions this season as he helped PSG win the Champions League title. While he's already a World Cup champion (2018), he became an even more impactful player for his club after Neymar and Mbappe moved on and has even put himself in contention for the Ballon d'Or this year. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Dembele is a 2018 World Cup champion and started for France in the 2022 final vs. Argentina. Les Bleus are anxious to win another World Cup trophy, and they're a favorite to do so in 2026. However, France will need all of its top talent, like Mbappe, Dembele and Desire Doue, to be at their best in order to ward off other dangerous contenders like Spain. _____ Why he makes the list: Luis Diaz had his most successful season at Liverpool this year, scoring 17 goals with eight assists across all competitions on his way to helping the club win the Premier League title. The versatile, 28-year-old winger is beloved at Liverpool – the fans even have a chant for him at Anfield – and his production has carried over to the Colombian national team, where he's become one of the squad's most impactful players. What this World Cup '26 would mean: As the most productive Colombian international playing in Europe right now, Diaz helped lead his country to the Copa América final against Argentina a year ago – a closely contested match that resulted in a 1-0 loss to the La Albiceleste. Colombia didn't qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, but is certainly viewed as one of the South American contenders for 2026. _____ Why he makes the list: Things have been even bleaker in Italy than in Germany, where the latter's fellow four-time World Cup winner failed even to qualify for the last two tournaments. Italy can still emerge victorious from any competition it's in, however: Donnarumma proved it by leading the Azzurri to a penalty kick win over England in London the the Euro 2020 final. What this World Cup '26 would mean: It would mean everything for one of the most passionate soccer nations on Earth. There's a record of success in North America, too: In 1994, Italy survived a shocking loss to the Republic of Ireland in its opener to reach the final, where it lost on spot kicks to Brazil. _____ Why he makes the list: Despite the club's disappointing season, Bruno Fernandes is considered to be Manchester United's most important player. He holds that responsibility for his national team as well, which was evident when Portugal recently beat European champion Spain to win the UEFA Nations League title. Fernandes, who wore the captain's armband late in the game after Cristiano Ronaldo went off with an injury, steadied the team and nailed his penalty kick during a dramatic shootout. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Portugal looks more like a contender right now after defeating World Cup favorite Spain in Nations League. The 30-year-old Fernandes is a fearless leader, creative in the midfield and knows how to balance a young squad with a legend in Ronaldo. Portugal made it to the quarterfinal at the 2022 World Cup, and, with Fernandes leading the charge, could have enough talent to make a deeper run in 2026. _____ Why he makes the list: Europe's most ruthless goalscorer has Norway on pace to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998; on Monday, Haaland's game-winning strike in a 2026 qualifier in Estonia gave the Norwegians their fourth straight victory on the road to Canada/Mexico/USA 2026, a run that also includes last week's 3-0 drubbing of four-time world champ Italy. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Perhaps the best player not to appear in the 2022 edition, Haaland would make not just his World Cup debut, but his first major tournament appearance in North America next summer. _____ Why he makes the list: One of the best fullbacks in football right now, though Hakimi could probably play midfielder or forward and be peerless at those positions, too. After all, he had the most goals of any defender in Ligue 1 this season. Hakimi played a key role in helping PSG win the Champions League title, and will be on the big stage this summer as his squad compete in the FIFA Club World Cup. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Hakimi was massive in leading Morocco on a marvelous run to become the first African country to reach the World Cup semifinals in 2022. Can the captain galvanize his national team again in what will be the biggest World Cup ever? Regardless of what kind of run the Atlas Lions go on this time, there's no denying that the 26-year-old Hakimi is already viewed as one of Africa's greatest players ever. _____ Why he makes the list: Jimenez had 14 goals and three assists across all competitions for Fulham this year, which was the first time since the 2019-20 season that he had scored in double figures for his club. And while he may be 34 years old, Jimenez's return to form not only benefited Fulham, but helped him lead Mexico whenever he was competing for his national team this season. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Jimenez scored both goals for Mexico in its Nations League final win over Panama in March, and is poised to have a big summer leading El Tri through the Gold Cup. The squad is a favorite to win the tournament and if it does, Jimenez will most certainly have had something to do with it. Mexico's best World Cup finish was making it to the quarterfinal in 1986, and as a co-host next year, Jimenez hopes to spark what could be a historic run with a ton of fan support behind him. _____ Why he makes the list: One of the few Mexican players to succeed in Europe in recent years, Gimenez has flourished since leaving Cruz Azul of Liga MX in 2022. His 45 goals in 73 Dutch league appearances for Feyenoord earned him a move to Italy in January; he was among the few bright spots for Milan during the back half of last season. For El Tri, he seems to have cemented his role next to Raul Jimenez on coach Javier Aguirre's front line. What this World Cup '26 would mean: As is the case for all of of the American, Canadian and Mexican players, it doesn't get more special than playing in a World Cup at home. Surely Santi is dreaming about belting out his national anthem at the historic Estadio Azteca next June 11, as Mexico becomes the first nation (and Azteca the first stadium) to host the tourney three times. _____ Why he makes the list: Kane has been one of the best forwards in the world for the better part of a decade. He recently won the Bundesliga championship with Bayern Munich, and came bitterly close to leading England to a European championship last summer (but the Three Lions ran into the inevitable Spain). Kane was the Bundesliga's top scorer this season and won the Golden Boot with 26 goals, and had the second-most shots with 110. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Is there a nation or a player more desperate to win a World Cup than England and their captain Kane? In Qatar, you might have answered with Argentina, but Leo Messi and Co. got their title. Now it's time for Kane to cement his legacy of greatness and bring it home for England. _____ Why he makes the list: One of the most skillful, fun to watch players around, Kvaratskhelia left eventual Scudetto winner Napoli midseason to move to PSG, where he promptly helped the club capture its first European title by scoring in the 5-0 final win over Inter Milan. What this World Cup '26 would mean: The former Soviet republic took a huge stride on the international stage last summer by making their European Championship debut and then qualifying for the round of 16. Should Kvaratskhelia and Crusaders also book a spot at the 2026 World Cup, it would mark the tiny (population: 3.7 million) country's first appearance at soccer's marquee event. _____ Why he makes the list: The 26-year-old midfielder was a key reason why Liverpool won the Premier League title this season. He's a menace no matter where he is on the pitch and wins most of his one-on-one duels. He can defend, score goals (he had seven goals and six assists across all competitions this season), and is a consistent and reliable player who will have a long and successful career. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Mac Allister already knows what it's like to hoist a World Cup trophy because he helped Argentina win its first title since 1986 nearly four years ago in Qatar. He also played an important role in La Albiceleste's Copa America title last summer. It's experiences like those that so many other players don't have that will aid Mac Allister as he strives to help Argentina go back-to-back for the first time since Brazil did it in 1958 and 1962. _____ Why he makes the list: Emiliano Martinez is widely considered to be one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League and around the world. His command of the box, shot-stopping ability and mind games during penalty shootouts make him a one-of-a-kind gem. Martinez has been a mainstay at Aston Villa for five years, though there are some rumblings of a summer transfer. What this World Cup would mean: Martinez cemented his legendary status when he helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Martinez made countless miraculous saves, especially in the final vs. France, though perhaps none as dramatic as his late save against Randal Kolo Muani in stoppage time of extra time. He ended up winning the Golden Glove, which included some trophy ceremony antics. Then he followed that performance up by helping Argentina win the 2024 Copa America. Another World Cup trophy in 2026 would only grow his superstardom even more. _____ Why he makes the list: The 2018 World Cup winner came oh-so-close in 2022, scoring a hat trick in the final before Les Bleus fell on penalties to Argentina and Messi — Mbappe's Paris Saint-Germain teammate at the time. The 26-year-old has since moved to Real Madrid where, despite a trophy less first season in 2024-25, he scored 31 goals in 34 games and won the European Golden Shoe award for the first time. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Mbappe was crushed by France's loss in 2022, and he watched his hometown club PSG win the Champions League without him during his maiden season in Spain. That should make Mbappe highly motivated heading into the 2025-26 campaign and the World Cup right after it. A noted fan of American culture and now Didier Deschamps captain, he'd surely relish the chance to hoist the World Cup in the shadow of New York City next summer. _____ Why he makes the list: So what if the GOAT turns 38 later this month. Three years after hoisting the World Cup for the first time and forever cementing his legacy, Messi still has it at the international level. He helped the Albiceleste win the 2024 Copa América — its third consecutive major title — in Miami last summer, and represented his country for the 192nd time in last week's World Cup qualifying win over Chile. What this World Cup '26 would mean: After winning it all four years ago, Messi changed his mind about international retirement. But this World Cup, his sixth, will surely be his last. It's fitting that it will come in the country where he and his family now live, but there's a huge sporting challenge, too: Pele's Brazil was the last to win back-to-back World Cups, and no country has ever won four major trophies in a row. _____ Why he makes the list: Another member of Spain's triumphant Euro 2024 squad, Pedri played four of La Roja's six games in Germany, then made 35 starts as Barca won La Liga for the second time in the 22-year-old's young career. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Pedri took a step forward this season, helping Barcelona to within a penalty kick loss of the Champions League final and landing on some Ballon d'Or shortlists along the way. With teenage sensation Yamal by his side, he could be poised for a trophy-laden 2025-26 for club and for country. _____ Why he makes the list: Despite some of the heat that has been heaped on Pulisic for skipping U.S. men's national team duty this summer, Pulisic is coming off the club season off his life in Italy. The 26-year-old scored a career-best 17 goals for the Rossoneri across all competitions last term. Slowed by injuries early in his career, he's stayed mostly healthy for two years running, making 100 appearances with Milan since arriving from Chelsea in 2023. What this World Cup 2026 would mean: With the tournament on home soil, next summer's World Cup will be nothing short of a legacy-defining moment for Pulisic, whose game-winning goal over Iran in the group stage finale in 2022 sent the Americans to the knockout phase. The co-hosts will be looking to go at least one round further next year — something the USMNT hasn't accomplished since they fell to Germany in the quarterfinals in 2002. _____ Why he makes the list: Yamal and Pedri deserve their plaudits, but some could argue that no player better for Barca last season than the electrifying 28-year-old winger. Raphinha scored an astounding 13 goals in 14 Champions League games last season, outpacing all-world striker Robert Lewandowski, and added another 10 in La Liga. What this World Cup '26 would mean: The last time Brazil participated in a World Cup on North American shores, it won the title for the fourth time snapping a 24-year trophy drought. The Selecao added record fifth World Cup star to that famous yellow jersey in 2002, which will be 24 yeas ago next summer. Brazil, in other words, is due. If they can win a sixth crown in 2026, Raphinha will be a big reason. _____ Why he makes the list: Rodri tore his ACL against Arsenal in September, but made his long-awaited return and played his first minutes since the injury with Manchester City in May. Just how detrimental was his absence? Man City struggled without the reigning Ballon d'Or winner, and lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace this spring. Now that the world's best defensive midfielder is back, Man City has a chance to win a trophy this summer when it competes at the FIFA Club World Cup. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Spain is already a favorite to win the 2026 World Cup, with its young stars like Lamine Yamal and Pedri making the headlines. But La Roja was upset by Portugal in the recent Nations League finals, which was decided by a penalty shootout. Spain didn't have Rodri, however, and it is a different team when he's in the midfield. If Rodri can stay healthy, this is a team who could realistically win the country's second-ever World Cup. _____ Why he makes the list: Ronaldo's face said it all. The 40-year-old superstar was beside himself in tears when he helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League title over Spain after a penalty shootout. Ronaldo scored two goals in the run of play – the game-winner over Germany in the semifinal and the tying goal against Spain in the final. At club level, he was the Saudi Pro League's top scorer this past season with 25 goals and is inching closer and closer to that 1,000-career goal mark. What this World Cup '26 would mean: If you thought the 2022 World Cup in Qatar would be his last rodeo, you were wrong. Ronaldo will be 41 at the 2026 tournament and would give absolutely anything to win a World Cup trophy for Portugal. After all, he's already won most everything else, including five Ballon d'Ors and he currently holds the record for the most goals in Champions League with 140. But for him, nothing would mean as much as winning a World Cup. Just ask his friend, Leo Messi. _____ Why he makes the list: The 32-year-old Salah was in top form for Premier League champions Liverpool this season. He led the league with 29 goals and 18 assists and has the unique ability to lift his teammates up in the process. Salah recently signed a two-year contract extension with the Reds that will keep him there through 2027, which is good for the club considering he hasn't shown signs of slowing down anytime soon. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Egypt last played in a World Cup in 2018 and didn't make it out of the group stage. The national team once made it to the Round of 16, but that was in 1934. Given what Morocco did in Qatar in 2022 – becoming the Cinderella of the tournament and going on a magical run to the semifinal – could Salah lead Egypt on a similar ride in 2026? _____ Why he makes the list: Vinicius was the 2024 Best FIFA Men's Player and the Ballon d'Or runner-up. He scored 21 goals and added 18 assists across all competitions for Real Madrid this past season, though he has been a bit inconsistent in his play this season. While that could be due in part to building chemistry with Kylian Mbappe, the winger is reportedly close to signing a new deal with the club that would keep the winger there through 2030. What this World Cup would mean: Brazil is desperate for a successful World Cup. The Seleçao has not hoisted the trophy since 2002, and given the amount of talent in this squad, there's really no excuse. Winning it all in 2026 would be legacy-building stuff for a player like Vini Jr., who has already won so much – including LaLiga and Champions League titles. However, he's still only 24 and as long as he stays fit and in form, will have more major tournaments ahead of him. _____ Why he makes the list: After helping Leverkusen to an undefeated Bundesliga season in 2023-24 and the club's first-ever German top flight title, the attacking playmaker, 22, appears set to join English Premier League champions for the season ahead of the '26 World Cup. What this World Cup '26 would mean: Four time world champion Germany hasn't been able to even survive the group stage at the past two World Cups. There's no doubt that Writz and the rest of Die Mannschaft will be bent on ending that embarrassing streak next summer. _____ Why he makes the list: Still just 17, Yamal already might be the best player on the planet. The silky smooth attacker played a key role in helping La Roja win the European Championship last summer by scoring a spectacular goal in the semifinal win over France, then followed that up by leading Barca to Spanish title and the Champions League semis. No wonder he's on the Ballon d'Or short list this year. What this World Cup '26 would mean: For all those accomplishments, Yamal still isn't yet a household name in quite the way Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe are. One reason for that? Yamal has yet to play in a World Cup. He'll become a bona fide global superstar next summer, though, on a team that is more than capable of lifting the trophy. Laken Litman covers college football, college basketball and soccer for FOX Sports. She previously wrote for Sports Illustrated, USA Today and The Indianapolis Star. She is the author of "Strong Like a Woman," published in spring 2022 to mark the 50th anniversary of Title IX. Follow her at @LakenLitman . Doug McIntyre is a soccer reporter for FOX Sports who has covered United States men's and women's national teams at FIFA World Cups on five continents. Follow him @ ByDougMcIntyre . recommended Get more from FIFA Men's World Cup Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
