ZIDANE APPOINYED FRANCE HEAD COACH AFTER 2026 WORLD CUP

Zinedine Zidane has been appointed head coach of the France men’s national football team, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Tuesday.

The 54-year-old takes over from Didier Deschamps, who stepped down following the 2026 FIFA World Cup after leading France for 14 years.

Zidane’s appointment comes after France’s disappointing campaign at the tournament in North America. Widely regarded as one of the favourites, Les Bleus were eliminated by eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals before losing to England in the third-place playoff.

The former France captain returns to coaching for the first time since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, where he enjoyed one of the most successful managerial spells in modern football.

“I have often said there is nothing greater than the French national team. It is therefore a joy and obviously a great honor to become the coach of France. It is also a responsibility,” Zidane said in a statement released by the FFF.

“I want to thank President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee and the French Football Federation for their trust and salute the fourteen years of Didier and his staff. I also have a special thought today for all my teachers. Needless to say, I have a lot of ambition for the French team.”

As a player, Zidane is regarded as one of France’s greatest footballers. He inspired the country to its first FIFA World Cup title in 1998, scoring twice in the 3-0 victory over Brazil in the final, before helping France win the UEFA European Championship in 2000.

His international playing career ended in dramatic fashion when he was sent off during the 2006 World Cup final against Italy following his infamous headbutt on Marco Materazzi.

Zidane now aims to emulate Deschamps by winning the World Cup as both a player and a coach.

Speaking at his unveiling, Zidane said coaching the French national team had always been his ambition.

“It’s a continuation for me, a dream come true. Over the last four or five years, I’ve received offers to lead a club and I rejected them all for the France national team. It’s the only thing I’ve wanted to do,” he said.

Zidane brings an outstanding club coaching record to the role. During two spells in charge of Real Madrid, he guided the Spanish giants to three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga championships and two FIFA Club World Cup trophies.

His immediate challenge will be preparing France for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with a squad featuring attacking stars including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola.

“We’ll be doing things differently. Deschamps is Deschamps, Zidane is Zidane. I will do what I know how to do,” he said. “I guarantee continuity so that the French national team keeps winning.”

- Ariana News

NICO WILLIAMS HONOURS HIS MOTHER ❤️ | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 | 'DREAMS COME TRUE'

 

NICO WILLIAMS AND HIS BEAUTIFUL GIRLFRIEND AINHI GARCIA | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

 🇬🇭🇪🇸 Nico Williams with his 😘 beautiful girlfriend Ainhi Garcia after winning the World cup.🏆🫂

FIFA LAUNCHES INVESTIGATION INTO BRAWL AFTER SPAIN DEFEATED ARGENTINA IN WORLD CUP FINAL

Leandro Paredes received a red card for appearing to grab Eric García by the throat as multiple altercations erupted

FIFA is launching an investigation into the altercations that broke out on the pitch after Spain defeated Argentina in the 2026 World Cup Final at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

Spain beat Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions, 1-0 in extra time after Ferran Torres finally got the ball past Emiliano Martínez’s goal line.

After the final whistle blew, several brawls broke out between players, and even coaches appeared to get involved.

Players scuffle after a foul by Leandro Paredes of Argentina on Rodri of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on July 19, 2026. (Maddie Meyer/FIFA)

Among them was Argentina’s Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain’s Eric García by the throat before others started shoving and tripping each other to the turf.

"Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents," a statement from the governing organization read.

Paredes ended up getting a red card after the whistle blew and was sent off the pitch. He was also shown a yellow card for a poor tackle shortly after he substituted in for his country in the second half.

Also, Argentina’s head coach Lionel Scaloni was seen being held back by a Spanish player while he was shouting toward someone. Nicola Otamendi also exchanged words with several Spain players, including their captain Rodrí before that skirmish was broken up.

There also seemed to be a moment where Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala approached Spain’s Dani Olmo and punched him on the chin before they were pulled away from one another.

Referee Slavko Vincic of Slovenia shows a yellow card to Argentina's Leandro Paredes during the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J. (Pamela Smith/AP)

"We are gracious in victory, and we must be so in defeat," Scaloni said, via ESPN. "We accept the loss; we gave everything. We were stretched thin coming into this, but giving it your all, like they did today, sets a great example for our people and our country.

"You lose, and you have to pick yourself up again."

Many were quick to rip into Argentina for the brawls that ensued after losing, including BBC’s Joe Hart.

"There was one man on the pitch who did have class and that was Lionel Messi, who shook hands with every one of those Spanish players," he said, via Goal.com. "The game's done. They could have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behavior."

Spain and Argentina players scuffle after Spain won the World Cup final against Argentina at New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on July 19, 2026. (Mauro Pimentel/AFP)

What exactly might happen from FIFA’s investigation? Well, Paredes’ chokehold on the Spanish player would result in an automatically applied red card. Nahuel Molina and Ayala are both expected to be investigated as well.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

- Scott Thompson

RAPPERS AND CELEBS REACT TO SPAIN 🇪🇸 WINNING THE WOD CUP

 

ALL THE CELEBRITIES SPOTTED AT 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL MATCH

Summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium transcended a mere sporting event, becoming a colossal entertainment spectacle. For the first time, the final featured a star-studded Halftime Show, curated by Chris Martin, with global icons like Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, and BTS performing to support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. The closing ceremony also boasted performances from Jennifer Hudson, Post Malone, and Robbie Williams. Beyond the stage, a dazzling array of celebrities, including actors, musicians, and political figures, flocked to New Jersey, transforming the championship into an unprecedented cultural and social gathering. FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted how the event united millions of fans on an unforgettable global stage.

Timothee Chalamet and Kylie Jenner kiss ahead of the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax on Sunday, July 19, 2026, as Argentina and Spain meet at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey — and the crowd of celebrities filling the host venue for the World Cup final is nearly as decorated as the two sides facing off.

Star power has followed the tournament since it opened, when the likes of Shakira, Michael Bublé and Katy Perry helped kick off the North American tournament by performing as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremonies. FIFA Chief Operating Officer Heimo Schirgi shared that the closing festivities are built to match that energy with this year’s final adding a first to the sport’s biggest stage: a Halftime Show.

For the first time in World Cup history, the final will pause for musical performances at halftime. Curated by Coldplay frontman Chris Martin in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, headliners Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and BTS will showcase a global range of music with the artists respectively representing the United States, Colombia, Canada and South Korea.

The four superstars are reportedly set to be joined by British rockers Coldplay, Nigerian singer Burna Boy, Los Angeles Philharmonic music director Gustavo Dudamel and New York City’s PS22 Chorus, along with characters from Sesame Street and The Muppets.

“The FIFA World Cup brings the world together in a way nothing else can,” Bieber previously said in a statement. “I’m grateful to be part of this Halftime Show, and even more grateful knowing it's already helping expand access to education for children around the world.”

Meanwhile, the World Cup’s closing ceremony will feature Jennifer Hudson performing the U.S. national anthem, as well as a lineup set to include Post Malone, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and IShowSpeed.

“We are thrilled to have so many stars taking to the pitch, from both the football and entertainment worlds,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a press release, adding that the ceremony would “set the tone for a historic FIFA World Cup final, uniting the passion of 48 teams, 16 host cities and millions of fans on one unforgettable stage.”

The star wattage has been on the East Coast all week with Kevin Durant pulling Tom Brady, Kevin Hart, Travis Scott, Rio Ferdinand, Michael Rubin and Novak Djokovic — along with finalists Rodri, Emiliano Martínez and Lionel Messi — into one massive selfie taken at a press conference ahead of the World Cup Final at Fanatics Fest in New York on Friday, July 17.

By Sunday, Pausini, Hart, Winnie Harlow, Odell Beckham Jr., Julia Garner, Gayle King and more were among the first to arrive at the New Jersey finale. Here’s a look at the celebrities turning out for the World Cup’s grand finish.

Timothee Chalamet & Kylie Jenner

The couple were spotted cheering — and kissing — during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final match.

Timothee Chalamet and Kylie Jenner attend the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

Dwyane Wade & Gabrielle Union

The celebrity couple kept it cool and casual with sunglasses and denim on the FIFA Gold Carpet event ahead of the final match.

Red Carpet held at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Siegfried Anthony/Variety via Getty Images)

Hoyeon & Carlos Alcaraz

The Squid Games actress and Spanish tennis player presented the Louis Vuitton trophy trunk containing the FIFA World Cup Winner’s Trophy ahead of the final match between Spain and Argentina.

Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Carlos Alcaraz looks on before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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Tom Brady

After taking part in a World Cup event at the 2026 Fanatics Fest in New York City days earlier, the NFL star was of course on hand for the final game.

Tom Brady attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Luciana & Matt Damon

The couple made clear who they’re rooting for with film producer Luciana, who was born in Argentina, decked in the team’s colors while Matt went for a more neutral navy shirt and jeans.

the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Global Citizen)

Jennifer Hudson

The singer and talk show host performed the U.S. national anthem before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match.

World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Maria Becerra

The Argentinian singer-songwriter represented her country by performing the Argentine national anthem before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina.

Maria Becerra performs the Argentine national anthem before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Thea Booysen & MrBeast

The internet-famous couple arrived and posed for photos hand-in-hand on the FIFA Gold Carpet.

Thea Booysen and Jimmy Donaldson, aka MrBeast attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

Post Malone

Rocking a T-shirt with a truly sportsmanship message ahead of the game of "I Just Hope Both Teams Have Fun," Posty performed during the closing ceremony taking place ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina

Post Malone performs during the closing ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Alex Pantling - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Post Malone and Swae Lee perform during the closing ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)Less

Swae Lee

The Rae Sremmurd singer-rapper was also on hand to perform at closing ceremony taking place ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match including teaming up with Post Malone

Swae Lee performs during the closing ceremony before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Alex Pantling - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Tate McRae

The singer-dancer was spotted smiling and keeping things casual at the game

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 19: Tate McRae attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Arturo Holmes - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Sarah Jessica Parker & Matthew Broderick

The Hollywood power couple kept intense focus on the game with Broderick even donning a World Cup Final cap.

Matthew Broderick attends the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Peso Pluma

The Mexican musician was seated right next to Timothee Chalamet’s father, journalist Marc Chalamet, who was taking in the game with son and son’s girlfriend Kylie Jenner.

Peso Pluma, French journalist Marc Chalamet, French-US actor Timothee Chalamet, US Media personality Kylie Jenner, former Brazilian football player Marcelo, (2nd row) and Former French football player Zinedine Zidane (C) attend the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

Laura Pausini

The internationally acclaimed Italian singer-songwriter donned black and gold on the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Red Carpet before her performance as part of this year’s World Cup Closing Ceremony.

Laura Pausini at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Red Carpet held at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Siegfried Anthony/Variety via Getty Images)

Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams & Laura Pausini

Representing the U.S., the U.K. and Italy, the trio sang as part of the closing ceremony festivities

Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams and Laura Pausini perform before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Hector Vivas - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Robbie Williams

The British superstar looked fired up ahead of taking the stage at the World Cup’s closing ceremony

British singer-Songwriter Robbie Williams is seen before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA on July 19, 2026. (Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Jay-Z & Beyoncé

Still rocking his New York Yankees cap after holding his massive “Extra Innings” concerts at the Yankee Stadium last week that included a guest appearances from Beyoncé, the massive music couple were on hand to watch the World Cup final.

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Jay-Z and Beyonce attend the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images)

THREE-TIME BALLON D’OR WINNER AITANA BONMATI WITH THE WORLD CUP FINAL FOOTBALL 🇪🇸 ⚽

 

KEVIN HART AND SHAKIRA WITH SPAIN FORWARD FERRAN TORRES | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

📸: Bleacher Report Football

Colombian music star Shakira and American comedian Kevin Hart presented Spain forward Ferran Torres with the World Cup Final ‘Man of the Match’ award.

ARSENAL PLAYERS ARE FIFA WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS 🌟

 

LIONEL MESSI MEME 🤣 | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

 

SPAIN VS. ARGENTINA | WORLD CUP FINAL HIGHLIGHTS

 

FIFA WORLD CUP FINAL FEVER GRIPS KERELA AS GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY ON MONDAY

The holiday covers schools under the General Education Department as well as colleges, universities and professional institutions under the Higher Education Department

Argentina will take on Spain in the final
© Getty

Kerala's passion for football reached a new high on Sunday as the state government declared a holiday on Monday for all educational institutions, allowing students to stay up and watch the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina without worrying about attending classes the next morning. The holiday covers schools under the General Education Department as well as colleges, universities and professional institutions under the Higher Education Department. The decision was taken following directions from Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan after thousands of football enthusiasts, particularly students, appealed through social media for a holiday.

The final is scheduled to kick off at 12.30 a.m. IST on Monday, making it difficult for students to attend classes after a late-night match.

Football enjoys an unmatched following in Kerala, where the sport is often celebrated with a passion rivalled only by cricket in other parts of the country.

In the days leading up to the final, towns and villages across the state have been transformed into football arenas, with giant cut-outs of international stars towering over roadsides, junctions and playgrounds.

Supporters of Spain and Argentina have erected massive banners, flags and decorative arches, while local fan clubs have organised public screenings, rallies and celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere across Kerala.

The overwhelming response from football fans played a key role in the government's decision. Several schools in Ernakulam had already announced a holiday on their own after receiving requests from students and parents.

The state government's announcement brought uniformity to the decision, ensuring that students across Kerala could enjoy the championship match.

Higher Education Minister Roji M. John announced that all higher education institutions, including professional colleges, would remain closed on Monday. He said the decision would enable students to watch one of world football's biggest sporting events without the inconvenience of travelling to campuses after a sleepless night.

General Education Minister N. Samsudheen also confirmed a holiday for schools under his department through a social media post, opening his message with the playful words, “Happy now, kids?”

He said the government had considered the sentiments of football-loving students before taking the decision.

With public viewing centres, giant screens and football-themed celebrations planned across the state, Kerala is set to witness another unforgettable night as lakhs of fans unite to cheer their favourite teams in the FIFA World Cup final.

- IANS

BUKAYO SAKA "LIKES' POST THOMAS TUCHEL A 'FRAUD' AFTER ENGLAND HAT-TRICK VS FRANCE

 

Bukayo Saka was at the heart of England’s 6-4 victory over France as he netted a hat-trick as Thomas Tuchel’s squad secured third place in the 2026 World Cup.

At half-time it appeared the Three Lions would waltz their way to the bronze medals as they were leading 4-0, thanks to goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and a brace from Saka.

While we had been treated to some entertaining action in this clash, at least from an England point of view, in the first half, it would truly kick into gear when France got on the scoresheet.

The French would make it 4-3 before the hydration break, with Bradley Barcola’s goal being sandwiched between a Kylian Mbappe brace; Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Ousmane Dembele made it 5-4, and finally, in the 98th minute, Jude Bellingham would complete the scoring and earn the win for England.

It was a memorable performance for Saka in this clash; however, following the match, it appears his account liked a post saying Tuchel is ‘on fraud watch’, as the post praised the performance of three Arsenal players in the clash with France.

The post from albertsairpods said: “We really walked away with a Bukayo Saka World Cup hat-trick. Against France. You just escaped the nastiest public humiliation ritual. The cultural capital of six Arsenal G/A with zero injuries has decreased your punishment to a mere spanking. You’re still on fraud watch.”

However, it now appears that Saka’s account has now removed the like on this post that was critical of Tuchel, especially when there were questions around the future of the German as England manager after their World Cup semi-final defeat.

Thomas Tuchel’s future as England boss

The Champions League-winning manager faced serious questions after England’s defeat to Argentina due to his tactical decisions after the withdrawal of Anthony Gordon.

The Three Lions would suffer a 2-1 defeat with Marc Guehi being critical of Tuchel’s tactical approach, while several pundits were also outspoken about whether the German should remain in this managerial role.

Tuchel had been given a contract extension ahead of the World Cup, which would see him remain in charge until the completion of the 2028 European Championships.

Despite several loud calls for Tuchel to leave his managerial role with England, the FA appear to have given the German their full backing, believing he is the man to lead the team to silverware.

England’s performance in the third-place playoff with France will have only helped strengthen this belief as they secured the bronze medal in a thrilling 10-goal contest.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Images

- Brendan McGilligan

ENGLAND WORLD CUP HAT-TRICKS

 

LIONEL MESSI REACTS TO ICONIC LAMINE YAMAL PHOTO BEFORE WORLD CUP FINAL:'IT'S CRAZY ..'

Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

Lionel Messi has described Lamine Yamal as one of the best players in world football ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final, but the Argentina captain admitted he hopes the Barcelona youngster is kept quiet when the two nations meet with football’s biggest prize at stake.

The meeting between Spain and Argentina has naturally been built around two generations of football’s elite. 

On one side is Messi, preparing for another World Cup final with Argentina. 

On the other is Yamal, whose performances have confirmed his status as one of the brightest talents in the game.

Away from the official press conferences, FIFA organised a special event at the Fan Fest featuring Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, midfielder Rodri, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. 

The biggest attraction, however, was Messi, who also appeared alongside Novak Djokovic, Kevin Durant and Tom Brady for a discussion ahead of the final.

Messi feels Yamal is destined for a special career

Messi has nothing but praise for Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Asked about the teenager’s rapid rise, Messi had nothing but admiration for the Barcelona winger, revealing he has followed his progress closely because of his affection for the Catalan club.

“Lamine is a truly great player, whom I’ve followed very closely because he plays for a club I love and for which I always wish the best. 

“At just 19, he’s already one of the world’s leading players. He has his whole career ahead of him and the chance to achieve something historic. 

"We’ll try to make sure it doesn’t happen this time,” said the Barcelona legend.

Messi reflects on iconic Lamine Yamal photo

Messi was also asked about the famous photograph taken nearly two decades ago, showing him holding a baby Yamal during a charity calendar photoshoot.

The image has resurfaced repeatedly in recent months, especially with the pair now preparing to face each other on football’s biggest stage.

Yes, those photos you’ve seen are real.

More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom Sheila met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot.

Today, their achievements on the pitch inspire millions. Off the pitch, both Messi and Lamine Yamal use their voices and platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support and advocate for children around the world.

The goal? That every child survives, thrives, and fulfils their potential.

We are proud to have them on our team.

Credit: Joan Monfort

Reflecting on that moment, Messi said, “That photo is crazy. Life… 

“I had my photo taken with him when I was a baby and now we’re set to face each other in a World Cup final. 

“He’s one of the best in the world right now and I wish him the very best of luck because if he does well, so will Barcelona. 

“That said, we’ll try to put in a good performance so he doesn’t play at his best, although that’s difficult.”

While his admiration for Yamal was clear, Messi also reminded everyone that Spain’s strength lies in the collective rather than one individual.

He concluded, “It’s not just Lamine. Spain have some brilliant players and play great football. We’ve got our own weapons too.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo

- Swapnil Bhopatkar

ARGENTINA FACING DISCPLINARY ACTION FOR CONTROVERSIAL BANNER AFTER BEATING ENGLAND

 They've been punished for it before.

In the aftermath of England crashing out of the 2026 World Cup following their defeat in the semi-final, their opponents Argentina look set to face disciplinary action for a controversial flag held up in the wake of beating their old enemies.

For anyone who quickly turned off the telly after the Three Lions ‘ 2-1 defeat and might have missed it, the Argentinian national squad waved a makeshift sign which read: “Las Malvinas son Argentinas.”

In English, this translates to “The Falklands are Argentine.”

Referring to the historic conflict between the two countries, which took place more than four decades ago, the statement has been described as inflammatory by some, with No. 10 Downing Street having issued an official response as the team now reportedly risks punishment by FIFA .

Multiple major outlets now believe that a financial penalty at the very least is expected to be passed down for the divisive political message.

As noted by the BBC above, this is by no means the first time this has happened, and perceived ‘tragedy chanting’ among other problematic behaviour from both fan bases has been a recurring issue whenever the two sides have played since.

To put things into context, the Falklands War, which lasted for 74 days, led to the deaths of 655 Argentine and 255 British servicemen, with three civilians on the islands also losing their lives.

As such, there is still plenty of bad blood between the South American country and Great Britain, with members of the nation’s leading party even weighing in with provocative and rather public posts on social media ahead of the game.

Vice President Victoria Villarruel has been among the most vocal online.

The reaction from the UK government was direct, too, with business secretary Peter Kyle telling Sky News: “I had left and gone to bed before the banner came onto the pitch, but I saw the images this morning, and of course, it’s entirely inappropriate.

“Politics should stay away from football. That is a very clear principle of the World Cup , but any consequences that come from that are now a decision for FIFA.”

Speaking to the BBC, he went on to add: “We expect FIFA to undertake an investigation into this. I think it was certain to happen because it was such an egregious violation of the rules of not having political activity as part of football.”

It’s also worth noting that Argentina have prior form for this kind of display.

The predicted outcome looks more than likely, with FIFA having previously fined £20,000 for a similar stunt before a friendly against Slovenia back in 2014.

‘La Albiceleste’ and their fellow compatriots won’t care one bit, of course, as they’re now into another World Cup final and could join Brazil, Italy and France in becoming back-to-back global champions.

Meanwhile, plenty have criticised Thomas Tuchel ‘s change in tactics and substitutions as England went more defensive after going a goal up, and the post-mortem from his first run as manager will no doubt continue in the coming days; whether he makes it consecutive tournaments or not, we’ll wait and see.

If you can bring yourself to watch it back, you can watch the highlights along with the extended post-match reaction in full down below.

-  Danny Jones

"WE JUST TRIED TO HOLD ON": ENGLAND CAPTAIN HARRY KANE PUTS COACH THOMAS TUCHEL ON SPOTLIGHT

England captain Harry Kane admitted that they became too defensive after taking the lead in the first half and said it was not enough at the highest level.

Harry Kane questioned coach Thomas Tuchel's tactics against Argentina

England captain Harry Kane expressed disappointment, saying that he is "gutted for the team, the staff, the fans" after defending champions Argentina staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the Three Lions 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal in Atlanta on Wednesday (local time), as per the FIFA website. The result sent Argentina into the World Cup 2026 final, where they will face Spain on Sunday, July 19 (local time), while England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to a heartbreaking end.

After the match, Kane expressed his disappointment, saying the team gave everything but were left heartbroken. He admitted that they became too defensive after taking the lead in the first half and said it was not enough at the highest level.

"I'm gutted for the team, the staff, the fans. We played a good game for the majority of it. When we went 1-0 up, we seemed to just try to hold on, which at this level is not enough. We worked so hard to be here. The lads have given every bit of blood, sweat and tears. To fall short like we did is just gutting," he said while speaking to the broadcasters, according to the FIFA Website.

Kane said England had several positive moments in the tournament and are close to success, but need to find the missing piece to overcome the final hurdle.

"We had a lot of good moments in this tournament. A lot of good games, another semi-final. We talk about knocking on the door. We're close, we just need to find that missing piece in the final stage of the tournament," Harry Kane added.

Harry Kane reconocio la presion ejercida por Argentina pic.twitter.com/qLmgKKt43H

— Hugo Basilico (@hugobasilico) July 16, 2026

In the match, England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon, but Argentina responded with sustained pressure. Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute before Lionel Messi assisted Lautaro Martinez's stoppage-time winner to complete the turnaround.

The match was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating limited chances in the first half. Argentina's victory ended England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966. The Three Lions will face France in the third-place playoff, while Argentina will meet Spain in the final on July 19.

- ANI

JOE AND JADA PODCAST ON NORWAY VS. BRAZIL | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

 

DUTCH REFEREE, 38, DIES UNEXPECTEDLY WEEKS AFTER BEING REMOVED FROM FIFA WORLD CUP TEAM

Rob Dieperink was supposed to be a VAR official at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 but was dropped after being accused of sexually assaulting a minor.

Referee Rob Dieperink died at the age of 38 © Getty

Tragic news has emerged from the world of football, as Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has reportedly been found dead after being removed from the 2026 FIFA World Cup's officiating team. Dieperink was supposed to be a part of the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) team at the 2026 World Cup but was dropped one month before the start of the tournament over allegations of 'sexual assault' involving a minor. Though the case was later closed due to insufficient evidence, it has now been revealed that the referee has died.

Dieperink died at the age of 38, though the cause of his death has not yet been made public. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed the news in a statement, paying tribute to Dieperink, who was one of the country's most respected officials.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all, a kind and dedicated colleague," the KNVB said.

FIFA, the sport's global governing body, also released a statement, offering its condolences on the Dutchman's death.

"On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association. May he rest in peace," the statement from FIFA read.

Dieperink had been officiating in the Netherlands' top-flight, Eredivisie, since 2017 and was also one of the VAR officials during the European Championships in 2024. He was named in the FIFA World Cup 2026 roster as a video assistant referee, according to the BBC, but was later removed.

He was arrested by London's Metropolitan Police over allegations of sexually assaulting an underage boy, a controversy that led to him missing out on the World Cup.

"It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused," Dieperink had told the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf after the allegations were made.

"From the beginning, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB," Dieperink had said.

He was reportedly quite disappointed to have been left out of FIFA's VAR team for the 2026 World Cup.

- Sahil Bakshi

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