"We are going to ask the FIFA president to resign now," she said, a day after a meeting of the Norwegian federation's governing bodies, which among other things examined the fate of the much-criticised FIFA chief. He is standing for re-election for a fourth and final term next March. President of FIFA since 2016 and currently the only declared candidate, Infantino must secure a majority of the 211 votes from the organisation's members in order to be re-elected.

Candidates must declare by November 18. The Italian-Swiss lawyer has come under enormous pressure since the failure of his plan -- which was revealed last week -- to open FIFA competitions, including the jewel in the crown the World Cup, to private investors.

India are led by KL Rahul in the three-day game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI starting Friday at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo.

The opening Test will begin on August 15 at Galle. The second Test will be played between August 23-27 in Colombo.

"Captain Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right ring finger during India's practice on Thursday," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement.

"As a precautionary measure, he will not take the field on Day 1 of the warm- up game against SLC XI. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress."

The series will be India's first in the current World Test Championship (WTC) since the 2-0 home defeat to South Africa in November.

India are fifth in the WTC standings, which are led by Australia, with Sri Lanka sixth.

"In the end I finally started moving a little bit better and finding my rhythm so I'm really happy at the end it really clicked." Sabalenka said she enjoys being atop the rankings, a spot she has held for more than 100 weeks in her career. "I love it. It just means I'm ahead and they have to come up with something crazy to play such tennis and I'm only getting better from that," Sabalenka said. "I enjoy being the one being chased. It's really fun. It's tough challenges but I love to go through it and it makes me stronger."

Sabalenka next plays against Russian 16th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova, who eliminated Australian Talia Gibson 5-7, 6-1, 6-3. Sabalenka leads their personal rivalry 5-4 thanks to a victory this year on Berlin grass, but Alexandrova won their most recent hardcourt match in a third-set tie-breaker last year at Doha. "Great player. Super aggressive. Fast game. Always have to stay low," Sabalenka said. "It's always great battles and a lot of things to work on." American third seed Jessica Pegula advanced to the round of 16 by defeating Uzbekistan's Kamilla Rakhimova 6-4, 6-0 in 68 minutes.

Pegula will play for a quarter-final berth against Russian 15th seed Diana Shnaider, who eliminated compatriot Anna Kalinskaya 6-3, 6-3, in 77 minutes. Polish seventh seed Iga Swiatek advanced with a 6-2, 6-1 romp over Swiss Viktorija Golubic in 66 minutes, landing 18 winners and losing only 14 points on her serve. "For sure it was a good day and I'm really happy with the way I played," Swiatek said. Swiatek countered Golubic's versatile shots by forcing the match tempo.

"I played back her slice pretty well so the change of rhythm didn't bother me that much," Swiatek said. "I tried to pick the right balls to attack because I was controlling the pace. It was just about the decision making." She next faces 10th seed Marta Kostyuk, who dispatched US 19th seed Madison Keys 6-3, 6-1 in 72 minutes.

The battling British winner trailed a set and a double break against the Australian third seed, who folded in the final set of an epic lasting for almost three hours.

De Minaur, who had been the highest remaining seed in a depleted draw, could have closed it out in straight sets with a match point chance in the eighth game of the second set.

The tournament had already seen an early exit from top seed Alexander Zverev, an injury pullout from Canadian second seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and a loss by fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.

The US Open tuneup hardcourt event had already been hit by the absences of world number one Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam singles champion Novak Djokovic.

The result leaves fifth-seeded holder Ben Shelton as the new man to beat going into the fourth round.

Norrie said he had to win a struggle.

"It was a great match to win and test my level," said the 2021 Masters champion at Indian Wells. "I can take so much confidence from this one.

"The level was so high in the first set. He came out firing and I had to match it. Alex stayed tough and stole the first set but took his foot off the gas just slightly in the second.

"I just battled point for point and managed to come out 6-1 in the third set. I was fortunate and I'll take (the win)."

De Minaur, losing finalist in Canada three years ago to Sinner, seized a 4-1 first-set lead to take the opener, winning six of seven games.

Norrie began turning the tide in the second set, levelling with a winning tiebreaker before running away in the third, taking match point 62 minutes after de Minaur blew his match point.

"I was in a good position," de Minaur said. "It's tennis. As we've seen, anything can happen. It's not the easiest of conditions out here.

"I gave myself chances early in the third set, and then I just played some bad points in a row and then got behind.

"It all just went very quickly."

Norrie will next play Arthur Fils after the Frenchman defeated Mariano Navone 6-3, 6-2, staking his claim for a comeback effort after missing months of play from a year ago and extending to February.

The 44th-ranked Argentine Navone lost his 22nd career match against a top-30 opponent. Fils advanced on his second match point, winning as he overcame 30 unforced errors with a solid serving performance that included four aces and four breaks of the Navone serve.

"I couldn't put in a serve during warm-up," the 24th-ranked winner said. "But I found my rhythm during the match and hit some good spots."

- 'I enjoy being back' -

With no top five players left in the depleted draw, the path is opening for the survivors in French-speaking Canada.

"It has been a tough time for me, I was injured a lot," Fils said. "But I enjoy being back on the big stage -- it means a lot."

Jiri Lehecka, at eighth the highest seed remaining after Shelton, stayed alive with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Belgian Alexander Blockx.

He will next face Spanish teen Rafael Jodar, the Washington runner-up who beat 13th seed Lorenzo Musetti 6-4, 6-3.

"I did a great job on returns and generally played very solid," Jodar said. "I'm super happy with the performance."

Messi, who helped Miami win the 2023 crown in his first weeks with the Florida club, took his tally in the competition for Major League Soccer and Mexican Liga MX sides to a record 14 goals.

David Rodriguez gave San Luis the lead in the fourth minute but Messi equalized seven minutes later.

Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia edged Miami ahead in the 26th minute.

Messi struck again just before half-time with Brazilian defender Micael making it 4-1 deep into first-half stoppage time.

Atletico's Rafa Llorente scored a second-half consolation.

Other Leagues Cup matches on Wednesday saw Dallas beat Queretaro 2-0 and Leon won 1-0 at Nashville.

Police conducted "search and seizure operations" at the Korea Football Association's offices, probing allegations of "obstruction of business" in the recruitment of former coach Hong Myung-bo, a police spokesman told AFP.

The 57-year-old Hong resigned in June after South Korea were knocked out following a shock 1-0 defeat to South Africa.

Questions were already dogging the Korean Football Association over the 2024 appointment of Hong, but scrutiny has intensified since the team exited at the group stage.

In late July, Hong was summoned before a committee of lawmakers probing the issue, where he said he took "full responsibility" for the poor performance.

President Lee Jae Myung blamed the failure on "incompetent people" promoted to leadership in a statement alluding to "loyalty and factionalism" tainting recruitment at the sport's top level.

Beaten by 90 runs in the first Test the previous week at the Brian Lara Stadium in the south of the island, the visitors were left with a target of only 75 runs after the home side -- already in deep trouble overnight at 103 for six in the second innings -- were dismissed for 117 half-an-hour into the start of the day's play.

Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam guided their team to victory after openers Imam-ul-Haq and Azan Awais fell cheaply to pacers Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph with Babar hoisting consecutive sixes off spinner Jomel Warrican to seal the result.

It gave Pakistan a share of the series in the same manner of their last campaign in the Caribbean in 2021, when they rebounded similarly from losing the first Test to take the second, both matches played then at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica.

Their last meeting in Pakistan, for two Tests in Multan in January of 2025, also finished 1-1.

This match was a personal triumph for Shafique.

Not included in the original touring party and only flown in last week as replacement for the injured Shan Masood, his unbeaten 160 was the cornerstone of Pakistan's first innings total of 387.

"This felt like a debut match for me, it was really unexpected," said Shafique on receiving the Player of the Match award and reflecting on his own stop-start international career.

"I haven't been able to get the opportunities recently, but as a professional you have to work towards a comeback and give of your best."

This was also Pakistan's first Test victory at Queen's Park Oval since 1977, when captain Mushtaq Mohammad's all-round performance took his team to a series-levelling win in the fourth Test of a five-match series. West Indies however won the decider in Kingston to take that rubber 2-1.

"Obviously you are satisfied when you win, but most important for us was the way we executed our plans," said Barbar, who has now won nine of his 12 Test matches as captain away from home.

"The way Abdullah (Shafique) played in the first innings and the way the spinners bowled in the second innings really made the difference."

- Frontline spinners star -

Pushing aside the hotly-debated omission of senior seamer Mohammad Abbas on the first morning of this Test, Pakistan prevailed with their two frontline spinners starring in the victory.

Off-spinner Sajid Khan, who was omitted for the first Test, made the most of his recall with a match haul of eight for 117, although he was not required on the final morning as the other spinner, left-arm orthodox Ali Usman, took two of the last three wickets to fall to claim four for 39 in the innings and match figures of six for 119.

West Indies were hampered by the absence of regular opening batsman Brandon King who was unable to bat because of back spasms suffered in effecting the run out of Pakistan captain Babar Azam for 88 the day before.

Khan had taken four for 32 to engineer the West Indies second innings collapse late on day three, yet Babar opted for the combination of Usman and seamer Mohammad Ali to complete the job on the fourth morning.

They were aided though by poor shot selection from the hosts' lower order.

Kemar Roach, noted for his tailender's defiance as displayed in the first innings, swung hopefully at the second delivery he faced from Usman to be bowled for a "duck".

Justin Greaves, the last real hope for any meaningful West Indian resistance, dragged an attempted pull at Mohammad Ali onto his middle stump, and the innings was wrapped up when Shamar Joseph, having already struck two boundaries, essayed another big swing at Usman only for a skied leading edge to be easily pouched by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.

"We should probably have gone into the match with an extra spinner as I underestimated the extent of my finger injury," West Indies captain Roston Chase admitted. "As for the batting, I thought we should have made a better effort of coping with the spin in the second innings so as to give our bowlers something reasonable to defend."

Pakistan's win also broke a streak of eight consecutive Test match defeats away from home, which started with a 360-run annihilation at the hands of Australia in Perth in December 2023.

The 38-year-old Jaissle, a former Germany Under-21 international, was previously in charge of Saudi side Al-Ahli but has no prior experience of managing a top-flight club.

"It is an incredible honour to become head coach of Newcastle United," said Jaissle.

"This is one of the biggest clubs in European football, with a unique history, identity and supporter base, and I am excited to experience that passion and connection first-hand.

"When Newcastle United comes your way, you take notice. The ambition of the club, the vision for the future and the opportunity ahead made this an incredibly compelling place to be. I have followed the club's journey closely in recent years and the progress that has been made is clear for everyone to see."

Jaissle was forced to end his playing career due to injury at the age of 25.

His first managerial job came with Austrian side Liefering, whom he led to a second-placed finish in the second tier, the club's joint best-ever position.

Jaissle took charge at Red Bull Salzburg in 2021, winning successive Austrian titles as well as the Austrian Cup.

Jaissle joined Al-Ahli in 2023 and led them to AFC Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026.

Although not a high-profile manager, he is well-known to Newcastle's majority owner, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund, which bought a controlling share in four Pro League clubs, including Al-Ahli, in 2023.

Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson said: "Matthias is one of the most exciting and highly regarded young coaches in football and I'm thrilled to welcome him to Newcastle United.

"We have conducted a thorough process, and he has emerged as the clear candidate for the role. He possesses all the qualities we were looking for."

- 'Believe in the project' -

Jaissle has a tough task ahead of him given the way Howe, in his five years at Newcastle, revitalised a club that had struggled for decades.

Howe replaced Steve Bruce in November 2021 and won the League Cup in March 2025 -- beating Liverpool in the final to clinch the northeast side's first major trophy since 1969.

The former Bournemouth boss also led Newcastle to Champions League qualification in 2023 and 2025.

But hampered by star striker Alexander Isak's protracted move to Liverpool, the Englishman came under pressure as the Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League last season, with 17 defeats in their 38 games.

Newcastle reached the Champions League last 16 but were hammered 8-3 on aggregate by Barcelona.

The club have since been depleted by the close-season departures of Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali to Tottenham and England forward Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, with Howe reportedly frustrated at losing several of his best players in order that Newcastle could comply with Premier League profit and sustainability rules.

Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes is also set to leave St James' Park after reports earlier Wednesday that Premier League champions Arsenal had agreed a œ75 million ($101 million) deal to sign the Brazil midfielder.

The Magpies begin the 2026/27 Premier League season at home to Liverpool on August 23, with an upbeat Jaissle insisting: "I am incredibly excited about the future.

"I fully and unreservedly believe in this project, the ambition and the direction the club is taking. There is a clear vision, strong leadership and an exceptional platform to build on."

to have been granted Australian citizenship after being branded traitors at home for refusing to sing the national anthem before a game.

Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh were members of a group of seven from Iran's delegation who asked for Australia's protection following the high-profile protest during the women's Asian Cup in March.

With their demands for protection an embarrassment for Iran's leaders but lauded by US President Donald Trump, five later changed their minds and returned home.

Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh stayed, however, and were granted Australian citizenship at a ceremony on Wednesday overseen by interior minister Tony Burke.

"Yesterday was a truly special and unforgettable day for me. I feel proud and deeply grateful to become an Australian citizen," Ramezanisadeh said in a statement.

"After everything we've been through and all the challenges we faced, this moment means more than words can express," Pasandideh added.

A week after seeking asylum, the pair was pictured smiling and training with Australian club Brisbane Roar, which on Wednesday congratulated the pair.

"What they have been through since February is more than most people deal with in a lifetime," a spokesman for the club said.

"To see them arrive at this point is something everyone here at Brisbane Roar is glad to have had a small part in," they added.

"Queensland is their home now. If they ever want to pull on a training top and come back out with us, the door will always stay open."

The plight of the rest of the team remains unclear since their return to Iran.

AFP reporters saw them cross into their homeland from Turkey on a bus wearing the national team tracksuits and with their hair covered.

Soon after, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X that the players and their support team were "children of the homeland and the people of Iran embrace them".

By returning, they had "disappointed the enemies (of Iran) and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements", he added.

"Salah mode: ON," Trabzonspor posted on social media alongside photos of the 34-year-old Egyptian aboard a private jet wearing the team's blue and maroon home shirt.

The club from Turkey's northeast announced on Tuesday that they had begun "negotiations" with Salah, who left Liverpool after nine seasons and as many trophies with the Reds.

He landed at around 0900 GMT in Istanbul, where he was greeted by hundreds of ecstatic supporters, AFP journalists reported.

"I'm here straight after my night shift, and now for Mohamed Salah, I am ready to spend another sleepless night," Trabzonspor supporter Abdul Kerim Yervan told AFP.

Salah is due to undergo a medical on Wednesday in Istanbul before flying to Trabzon later in the day.

The right winger, who is set to sign a two-season contract with an option for a third, will earn 17 million euros ($19.6 million) a year, according to several Turkish media outlets.

"I am really happy... and looking forward to training with the team. Everywhere I go I always win or try to win something. Hopefully we can do something within the league and in Europe as well," the Egyptian said on his arrival in Trabzon, while the club posted "Welcome, Egyptian King" on X.

Salah netted 257 goals for Liverpool in 442 appearances in all competitions, making him the third top goalscorer in the club's history.

He also scored 193 Premier League goals, 191 of them for the Reds, putting him fourth in the all-time list behind English trio Alan Shearer, Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney.

Salah was far from his best in a struggling Liverpool team last term, scoring only seven times in the league.

He last played at the World Cup, helping Egypt reach the last 16 for the first time since 1934 before they blew a two-goal lead to suffer an agonising loss to eventual runners-up Argentina.

Salah had also been linked with Trabzonspor's Super Lig rivals Besiktas.

Trabzonspor finished third in the Turkish top flight last season, nine points clear of Besiktas, to qualify for the Europa League play-off round.

Salah has scored 66 goals in 119 international appearances for Egypt and is one of the most successful African players in history.

FIFA chief Infantino has come under serious pressure over a failed plan to open the World Cup to private investment.

Prince Ali bin Hussein, who twice ran unsuccessfully for the FIFA presidency, said the Jordanian FA was still waiting to be paid for reaching last year's FIFA Arab Cup final.

He also bemoaned that several Jordan fans were not granted visas to enter the United States for the recent World Cup despite having tickets, and said Jordan's World Cup prize money is being taxed by the "US government through FIFA".

The FA's president claimed he was told that endorsing Infantino's re-election bid "would go a long way towards helping our FA out".

"We have been waiting for reward money for our players since December for the Arab Cup in Qatar, which is a FIFA event," Prince Ali, also a former FIFA vice-president, said in a statement on social media.

"The money our team should receive for having reached the final has not been delivered yet, while at the same time FIFA brags about how many billions they have in reserve.

"It is clear the problem really is with leadership.

"For months, FIFA has been refusing to help us on any of these or other matters -- until it was verbally communicated to me during the World Cup that if I endorsed Infantino it would go a long way to helping our FA out...

"We did not endorse him before and certainly will not now. But the whole situation amounts to blackmail and we refuse to give in to that."

Prince Ali lost to Sepp Blatter in the 2015 FIFA presidential election, and was then third the following year behind Infantino and Salman Bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa.

Infantino, who succeeded Blatter in 2016, was widely expected to be re-elected as FIFA president for a fourth term next March but his position is now under threat.

Earlier Tuesday, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of global football development, and world football's governing body's secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom both criticised Infantino's handling of the scrapped investor plan.

Several of UEFA's member associations -- Wales, Finland, Sweden and Serbia -- have withdrawn their letters of support for Infantino and the English FA is strongly rumoured to be on the verge of also joining them.

Four executives from World Cup cities, speaking anonymously, told the outlet that FIFA management told them they would each receive $1 million in "legacy" funds to build football-related infrastructure and support "social projects".

The Athletic reported that officials from the cities had requested the payments after Gianni Infantino, head of global football's governing body, announced such payments to host cities of the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States.

"According to four executives at US host city committees, all of whom asked to remain anonymous to protect relationships, FIFA management repeatedly assured the cities they would receive the same $1 million contribution towards legacy, despite no public statement ever being made by the organization," The Athletic wrote.

"The four executives said this promise was made verbally by members of FIFA's senior management, and reiterated to cities in meetings, but it has not been paid, meaning several cities are now asking FIFA staff for updates on the payments."

The US cities of Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Miami, Boston and New York/New Jersey were among the host venues for the World Cup held in the US, Canada and Mexico.

The 39-day tournament, expanded to 48 teams for the first time, has contributed to record FIFA revenues reportedly hitting $15 billion for the revenue cycle of 2023-26.

The report is the latest black mark for Infantino, who is under fire from European confederation UEFA and some of its counterparts, as well as some within FIFA, over his since-abandoned proposal to open the World Cup to private investment.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, appointed in 2019 by Infantino as FIFA's chief of global football development, said in a statement that "the decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question".

His remarks followed hot on the heels of an extraordinary internal email to FIFA staff, seen by AFP, in which secretary-general Mattias Grafstrom appeared to distance himself from Infantino on the issue.

Previously seen as close to Infantino, Grafstrom describes the fiasco surrounding the plan as "a sad and reproachable series of events".

He adds: "Individuals, unstable moments and unfortunate episodes come and go. The institution, its mission and its responsibility towards world football continue."

FIFA had floated the plan last Tuesday, saying it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.

By Saturday, it was dead in the water as Infantino announced the humiliating climbdown after widespread condemnation, as UEFA wielded the nuclear option of boycotting all FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.

Far from calming the waters or shoring up his presidency, Infantino has been swamped with criticism of his style of leadership and a previously smooth path to being re-elected unopposed to a fourth and final term next March in Rabat now looks a very rocky one indeed.

He has reportedly summoned FIFA staff to a crisis meeting in the Moroccan capital as he attempts to cling onto power.

Several of UEFA's member associations -- Wales, Finland, Sweden and Serbia -- have withdrawn their letters of support for Infantino and the English FA is strongly rumoured to be on the verge of also joining them.

Jordanian FA president Prince Ali bin Hussein, twice a FIFA presidential candidate, accused FIFA of "blackmail" in a remarkable statement.

Prince Ali said he was told verbally that endorsing Infantino for re-election "could go a long way to helping our FA out".

The federation had complained about not being paid for Jordan's run to last year's FIFA Arab Cup final, and about its team's fans not being given visas to watch their World Cup debut in the United States.

The Athletic also reported Tuesday that the 11 World Cup host cities in the United States are chasing up legacy payments of $1 million each which were "repeatedly" promised to them by FIFA.

- 'Take immediate steps' -

UEFA issued a letter through their lawyers in the US threatening legal action over what they had scathingly described as a "shabby, backroom, opaque deal", despite it being shelved.

Both Grafstrom and Wenger as well as chief operating officer Kevin Lamour, who had slammed the plan on Friday, are mentioned in the letter as being knowledgeable about the FFE and instructed to keep all "relevant materials".

"Dear Mr Infantino. UEFA hereby gives formal notice that it is actively considering legal action, arbitration, and/or regulatory complaints (together, the 'Proceedings') arising out of and in connection with the FFE plan proposed by FIFA and all related matters as further described below," their lawyer Andrew Levander said in the letter sent last Friday and seen by AFP.

The scant comfort for Infantino came from a handful of supporters, including 2030 World Cup co-hosts Morocco, as well as Kuwait, Qatar, where he has a house, and Lebanon, which granted him honorary citizenship in February.

However, it is the damning remarks by both Wenger and Grafstrom -- who shadowed Infantino throughout the World Cup -- that will twist the knife further.

Their criticism only adds to the impression that Infantino has lost the confidence of even his closest FIFA collaborators.

One of the most devastating blows to Infantino's plan was the resignation on Friday of his special advisor Carlos Cordeiro, who is also close to US President Donald Trump.

Despite what UEFA's lawyer wrote regarding keeping material pertinent to FFE, Wenger claims to have only learned about it through the media.

"I was not involved in this strategic plan," the 76-year-old Frenchman said.

Grafstrom, for his part, tried to cheer up the staff by congratulating them on their work while admitting it had been "an extraordinary and challenging week".

For Infantino, the challenge threatens to grow, and his stated purpose when he ditched the plan, to unite football, seems unlikely to be realised while he remains president.

The Egyptian star left Liverpool at the end of last season after an illustrious nine-year spell at Anfield, during which he won the Champions League and two Premier League titles.

"Mohamed Salah, with whom we have begun transfer negotiations, will be at Istanbul Ataturk Airport... at 12:00 on Wednesday, August 5," Trabzonspor said in a statement.

"The player is scheduled to arrive in Trabzon on the same day in the evening hours."

Salah netted 257 goals for Liverpool in 442 appearances in all competitions, making him the third top goalscorer in the club's history.

He has also scored 193 Premier League goals, 191 of them for the Reds, putting him fourth in the all-time list behind English trio Alan Shearer, Harry Kane and Wayne Rooney.

The 34-year-old Salah was far from his best in a struggling Liverpool team last term, scoring only seven times in the league.

He last played at the World Cup, helping Egypt reach the last 16 for the first time since 1934 before they blew a two-goal lead to suffer an agonising loss to eventual runners-up Argentina.

Salah had also been linked with Trabzonspor's Super Lig rivals Besiktas.

Trabzonspor finished third in the Turkish top flight last season, nine points clear of Besiktas, to qualify for the Europa League play-off round.

Salah has scored 66 goals in 119 international appearances for Egypt and is one of the most successful African players in history.

Abdullah Shafique's unbeaten 160 ensured the visitors did not completely squander an excellent overnight platform in eventually getting to a first-innings total of 387.

Sajid Khan then made his second meaningful contribution of the day in taking four second-innings wickets, while Ali Usman claimed two, including home captain Roston Chase caught-and-bowled off the final ball of the day.

First-innings top-scorer Justin Greaves will carry the fight for the West Indies into the fourth morning with uncertainty over the availability to bat of regular opener Brandon King.

On a deteriorating pitch offering sharp turn and variable bounce, West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican was as much in his element as 18 months earlier against these same opponents in Multan.

Here, his haul of six for 112, including three wickets in four balls to wrap up the Pakistan innings on the stroke of tea, would have been a portent of things to come.

Yet having started the day in the comfortable position of 266 for two and within sight of the West Indies first-innings total of 344, it took an error of judgement from Pakistan captain Babar Azam to trigger a gradual slide as the visitors' last eight wickets fell for 106 runs.

Having put the West Indies bowlers to the sword with delightful, confident strokeplay on the second afternoon, Babar was a picture of strokeless paralysis at the start of the day, as if the prospect of a first Test century in almost four years had gotten the better of him.

He managed to eke out a couple of runs to add to his overnight 86 before taking off for a non-existent single and, sent back by Shafique, dived desperately but in vain as the direct hit at the striker's end by King from point found Babar short of his ground.

West Indian delight at Babar's dismissal was transformed to concern over the welfare of King, who remained prone on the outfield after effecting the dismissal.

After several minutes of assessment of his situation he was stretchered off with what was later diagnosed to be back spasms.

That unexpected breakthrough triggered a mini-slide as three wickets fell for five runs, fast bowler Shamar Joseph and Warrican claiming a wicket each.

Khan offered a measure of stability with Shafique, the pair putting on 59 for the seventh wicket before another pacer, Jayden Seales, removed the lower-order batsman for 30.

With the door open to a vulnerable tail, Warrican wasted no time in wrapping up the innings, taking three wickets in four balls with Shafique stranded at the non-striker's end and leaving Pakistan to rue opportunities missed to earn a much more significant lead.

- 'Excellent' Warrican -

Shafique's innings occupied more than seven-and-half hours during which he faced 323 deliveries, striking 15 fours and three sixes.

"Jomel was really excellent for us today, staying at the stumps and finishing off the innings well," said West Indies bowling coach Ravi Rampaul.

"At this stage though, and given the way the pitch is playing, if we can somehow push the lead to 150 we would have a chance."

Khan was at his most rampant in the final session, accounting for Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Amir Jangoo swiftly before adding Shai Hope and nightwatchman Seales to his list of victims.

Chase surveyed the carnage from the other end only to succumb to the constant pressure himself, the reaction of the home skipper to his demise almost a mirror of Babar's disconsolate trek to the pavilion more than seven hours earlier.

Usman also posed a constant threat, the left-arm spinner having earlier removed Kavem Hodge, whose 34 is the top score so far in an innings in danger of going into complete freefall.

Mexico-based Kgatlana struck her second goal of the tournament after 21 minutes in Casablanca, then her team withstood continuous second-half pressure in a tense match.

The winning goal will haunt Burkinabe central defender Madinatou Rouamba, who failed to cut off a cross from Fikile Magama, leaving Kgatlana to tap the ball past goalkeeper Nina Dabilgou.

Burkina Faso were awarded a penalty just two minutes into the second half, but the decision by the Cameroonian referee was reversed after a VAR review.

The rest of the half saw a string of Burkinabe attacks, but a lack of creativity, wild shooting and an impressive display from goalkeeper Kaylin Swart defied the west Africans.

South Africa, champions in 2022 and five-time runners-up in the marquee African women's football competition, had to win to survive, and also needed the Ivory Coast to defeat Tanzania.

The Ivorians obliged with a 2-1 victory through goals from N'Sira Ouedraogo just before half-time and Ines Konan midway through the second half in a match played simultaneously.

Ouedrago struck with a snap shot from just inside the area and Konan converted a penalty. Diana Msewa netted a consolation added-time goal for Tanzania from another penalty.

Ivory Coast finished Group B with seven points. South Africa had four and Burkina Faso and Tanzania three each.

In the quarter-finals on Saturday, Ivory Coast stay in Casablanca to face Group A runners-up Algeria while South Africa travel to Rabat for a showdown with host nation Morocco.

Quarter-final winners not only move closer to a record two-million-dollar WAFCON first prize, they also qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Tournament Committee Chairman Sirajuddin Mohammad Alamgir said the planned reforms could save the BCB between Tk 15 crore and Tk 30 crore annually, with the savings to be redirected towards cricket development.

According to Alamgir, the BCB currently spends more than Tk. 50 crore each year in organizing domestic tournaments, a figure he believes can be substantially reduced through better planning and commercialization.

"From what we have seen, the BCB spends a huge amount of money to run its tournaments. With some well-planned initiatives, we can significantly reduce those costs," Alamgir said in an exclusive interview.

"After consulting with the board president, we have undertaken several projects regarding our domestic competitions. We have already discussed the plans with our stakeholders, and the results will be visible very soon," he added.

Alamgir, a veteran cricket organizer from Chattogram, said the board is no longer interested in continuing to bear the full financial burden of tournaments such as the National Cricket League (NCL) T20, the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL) four-day and one-day competitions.

Under the proposed model, the BCB plans to market the BCL four-day, BCL one-day and NCL T20 tournaments as a single commercial package. Each competition will feature six privately owned teams, with approximately 60 days allocated for the combined schedule.

The traditional eight-team NCL four-day championship, however, will continue in its existing format with divisional teams, alongside a three-day NCL Second XI competition.

"If we continue these tournaments in the conventional way, they will not benefit us financially. That's why we have decided to market them. The money we save through effective cost-cutting can later be invested in development projects," Alamgir said.

"We have already shared our ideas with the marketing department to explore how domestic cricket can be marketed more effectively."

Alamgir believes improved marketing will not only generate greater revenue for the BCB but also enhance the competitiveness and appeal of the domestic competitions.

He also dismissed concerns over possible payment complications under the proposed ownership model.

"The owners will not have to pay franchise fees like those in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). They will simply follow the existing payment structure that the BCB uses for players in tournaments such as the BCL and NCL.

Therefore, there will be no payment-related complications, while the board will save a significant amount of money," he said.

"These tournaments are marketable products. I find it hard to believe that the cricket board cannot sell its own competitions.

If we can properly demonstrate the commercial opportunities to our sponsors, I believe we will be able to market these events successfully. Discussions have already begun, and the results will be seen very soon."

He added that successful commercialization would also allow the BCB to pay players in advance, eliminating the recurring problem of delayed payments.

"There is no need to charge a huge ownership fee. The owners would simply need to advance the players' payments under the existing first-class payment structure or any other structure already in place," he added.

Alamgir also revealed plans to introduce foreign players into the domestic competitions through a player exchange programme. "The exchange programme will reduce the cost of bringing foreign players in."

"At the same time, it will make our competitions more competitive and attractive. Our local players will benefit immensely from sharing dressing rooms with overseas cricketers. Likewise, our players will also participate in tournaments abroad under the programme, gaining valuable international exposure."

In addition, the BCB is planning to introduce two new competitions to strengthen the country's talent pipeline: a Rising Star tournament for Under-23 cricketers and an Inter-University Cricket League.

"We are planning to include the Rising Star competition and the Inter-University Cricket League in the domestic calendar. We believe these tournaments will further strengthen our player development pathway, and we are committed to implementing them," Alamgir said.

He also confirmed that district-level cricket competitions will be held in phases, with each district receiving Tk. 5 lakh in financial support from the BCB.

"In the first phase, competitions will be held in 20 districts, and we have already sent official letters in this regard. Another 20 districts will host their tournaments in the second phase, while the remaining 24 districts will organize their competitions in the final phase," he said.

The four-time Grand Slam champion from Japan is coming off a semi-final run on the hard courts of Washington, where she fell to eventual champion Alexandra Eala of the Philippines.

"I did better than last year in DC, so I'm just hoping to keep the ball rolling," Osaka said.

"I haven't historically played super, super well here, so I'm just hoping to change that this year.

"I can try to recall Montreal, but I would like to kind of treat the cities separately," added Osaka, whose best run in Toronto -- which alternates hosting duties with Montreal each year -- was a quarter-final appearance back in 2019.

The former world number one is seeded 11th this year and aiming to build momentum as the August 31 start of the US Open approaches.

Osaka earned the last of her four major titles at the 2021 Australian Open and has yet to regain the heights she reached before taking an extended maternity leave in 2023.

But she made it to the US Open semi-finals last year and reached the last 16 at the French Open for the first time this year before a career-best quarter-final at Wimbledon.

"I would just hope to gain a lot of confidence leading into New York," she said.

"I lost my last match, but it's helped me figure out what I want to do exactly, or how I want to take my tennis."

Osaka is in the same quarter as second-seeded Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina and in the fourth round she could find herself up against fifth-seeded French Open champion Mirra Andreeva.

Andreeva, who suffered a shock second-round exit at Wimbledon, will face a tricky opening match against former world number one Karolina Pliskova, who beat Ukraine's Oleksandra Oliynykova 6-4, 6-4 on Monday.

Osaka will open against Hungary's Panna Uvardy, who was up 2-6, 7-6 (7/3), 2-0 against Eva Lys when the German retired because of injury in a match in which she led the second set 5-2.

It was a jam-packed schedule on the second day of first-round play.

Among the winners, Poland's Magdalena Frech defeated France's Leolia Jeanjean 7-5, 6-3 to line up a meeting with third-seeded two-time champion Jessica Pegula.

Pegula beat Frech last week on the way to the final in Washington, where the American fell to Eala in the rain-delayed title match on Monday.

In other early matches, American Kayla Day beat Diane Parry of France 3-6, 6-3, 7-5 to book a clash with fourth-seeded Coco Gauff.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka is the top seed in the tournament.

After disappointing runs at the French Open and Wimbledon the Belarusian is aiming to reassert her dominance on hard courts, where her lone defeat this year was to Rybakina in the Australian Open final.

Just days after flying into the Caribbean as an emergency replacement, Shafique ended the day unbeaten on 107 off 185 balls with 10 fours and two sixes decorating his authoritative innings at Queen's Park Oval.

Babar, the only visitor to emerge with any credit from a disastrous second innings of the first Test when he finished unbeaten on 58, was again unbowed on 86.

His calm, classy innings has so far occupied 126 deliveries, embellished by 10 fours and one six.

Putting aside those batting woes of a 90-run loss at the Brian Lara Stadium a few miles away, captain Babar and the recalled Shafique made the most of ideal batting conditions and pleasant weather, gathering runs in style in an unbroken third-wicket stand of 168.

Recalled after Shan Masood's finger injury, Shafique looked at ease in the unfamiliar position of number three when he replaced Imam-ul-Haq, who was dismissed by Shamar Joseph.

It was his first opportunity since losing his place after the South Africa series at home last October.

He put on 64 attractive runs with Azan Awais, the opener flaying 10 fours in a 71-ball 55 before being adjudged lbw on television review to left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican.

Babar got into stride almost immediately and with the West Indies hampered by the unavailability of first Test match-winner Justin Greaves with a leg injury and captain Roston Chase ineffective with his off-spinners because of a lacerated finger, the tourists' task was made that bit easier.

- Shafique grabs opportunity -

Yet nothing could take away from the excellence of their strokeplay and the manner in which they dominated an attack that had them on their knees six days earlier when they crashed to 71 for nine, eventually being dismissed for 120 in the last innings of the first Test.

"Their partnership has been quite remarkable and that's just the thing we have been missing in the last two-three Test matches," said delighted batting coach and former Pakistan international batsman Asad Shafique.

"Abdullah has been scoring heavily in domestic competition and he has taken this opportunity with both hands. For me, the hallmark of his innings was the way he put away the bad deliveries and respected the good ones."

Babar, who continues to face severe criticism for what is seen as a rather passive style of leadership, was in his element with bat in hand though, playing a vital guiding role in ensuring that Shafique stayed focused.

When Shafique reached his century shortly before stumps, pulling a short ball to the midwicket boundary, Babar celebrated warmly with the 26-year-old.

Earlier, West Indies extended their first innings by 109 runs in the elongated morning session but that effort was put into context by the ease with the Pakistani top-order gathered runs in reply.

All-rounder Greaves and overnight partner Chase pushed their sixth-wicket stand to 96 before the summoning of the second new ball, unexpectedly in the hands of spinner Ali Usman, brought the breakthrough when Greaves, on 73, sliced an ambitious heave to point.

Fast-medium bowler Ubaid Shah then bowled Chase for 70 and despite more typically stubborn resistance from Kemar Roach, Sajid Khan claimed the last three wickets, the off-spinner finishing with the best figures of four for 85.

Morocco advanced to the quarter-finals by finishing with seven points after beating Kenya convincingly and Algeria narrowly in earlier mini-league matches in Rabat.

Goals from Marine Dafeur and Lynda Bendris earned Algeria a 2-0 victory over Kenya in a match played simultaneously, and they booked a last-eight place by coming second with six points.

Senegal ended with four points and Kenya with none so both were eliminated from the two-yearly African women's football showpiece.

Morocco will face the Group B runners-up and Algeria the Group B winners in the quarter-finals. They will discover their opponents on Tuesday after the final matches in that mini-league.

Ivory Coast lead Group B with four points, Burkina Faso and Tanzania have three each and South Africa one, leaving all four nations with a chance to progress.

Morocco beat Senegal 1-0 in both the 2022 and 2024 WAFCON tournaments, with the goal coming from a penalty on each occasion.

The Atlas Lionesses had a chance to repeat those feats when awarded a spot-kick midway through the second half after Marieme Babou fouled Sakina Ouzraoui.

Teenager Adji Ndiaye saved the first attempt from Yasmin Mrabet, but came off her line too early and the Ugandan referee ordered a retake.

Mrabet once again struck the ball to the left of the goalkeeper, and once again her effort was spectacularly parried to safety.

Senegal had come closest to scoring in open play when Ndeye Diakhate rattled the crossbar with a volley as half-time approached.

Algeria quickly took control against Kenya and were two goals ahead midway through the first half at another Rabat stadium.

Dafeur claimed her second goal of the WAFCON by rifling a free-kick into the net from well outside the area on 14 minutes.

Bendris dispossessed a Kenyan defender, then lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Lilian Awuor to increase the lead nine minutes later.

Apart from chasing a record two-million-dollar WAFCON first prize, the semi-finalists qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Sabalenka has won 23 of her 24 hard court matches this year, the lone defeat her loss to Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open final.

But she was turfed out in the quarter-finals on the clay of Roland Garros and fell to Naomi Osaka in the round of 16 on the grass courts of Wimbledon.

If Sabalenka fails to reach the round of 16 in Toronto, Kazakhstan's Rybakina can rise to number one if she lifts the trophy.

Sabalenka has never made it past the semi-finals in Canada, which alternates each year between Montreal and Toronto, but she said she was feeling rested and ready to reassert herself after taking time off in the wake of her All England Club exit.

"Clay and grass, I wouldn't say they were that bad," she said. "I was trying a couple of things, didn't go the way that I expected. And now we're kind of back to basics and I really hope it's going to work out well."

Sabalenka had exited Wimbledon saying she wanted to "forget about tennis".

She did that with a summer holiday on the Greek island of Mykonos.

"I think the rest was much-needed," she told reporters on Sunday. "I spent there five, six days maybe. I felt much better, I couldn't wait to get back on court and start working towards my goals for this swing."

Sabalenka heads a top half of the draw that also includes two-time winner Jessica Pegula, the third seed, 2024 finalist Amanda Anisimova and seventh-seeded Iga Swiatek of Poland.

Former world number one Swiatek, a six-time Grand Slam champion, will be aiming to regroup after slumping to a third-round defeat at Wimbledon.

Rybakina anchors a bottom half of the draw that also includes fourth-seeded Coco Gauff, four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka and newly crowned Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova.

Czech Noskova, who broke into the top 10 after winning her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon, is seeded sixth and could face another rising star in the Philippines' Alexandra Eala in the third round.

They have met twice already this year, with Noskova winning both times.

Wimbledon runner-up Karolina Muchova is among the notable absentees as she recovers from a minor surgery.

Reigning champion Victoria Mboko of Canada, who thrilled Montreal fans with her run to a first WTA title last year, remains sidelined with the knee injury that forced her out of Wimbledon.

- Tricky schedule -

The ATP Masters 1000 in Montreal this week has also been hit by high-profile defections, including that of Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner.

Sabalenka said the scheduling is "tricky" for any player that does well in the grass court season, with the Canadian tournaments followed by a 1000-level event in Cincinnati in a schedule that offers little respite before the US Open begins on August 30.

"If you go far at the grass court (season) you feel really fatigued and you're not able to pull out any good tennis so what's the reason of coming when your body is really so much stress," she said. "It's very tricky, but this year I didn't do well so I'm here."

All 32 seeded players received first-round byes.

Play got underway on Sunday with Japanese qualifier Moyuka Uchijima booking a second-round meeting with Sabalenka with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Spain's Cristina Bucsa.

Czech Sara Bejlek posted a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 victory over China's Wang Xiyu, who was hobbled by a left leg problem, and booked a second-round meeting with Swiatek.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams bowed out in the first round, falling 6-4, 6-1 to Uzbekistan's Kamilla Rakhimova.

After a match-winning display with the ball in the first Test last week, Greaves displayed what has now become his trademark ease and composure at the crease in a battling knock at Queen's Park Oval.

His only error of judgement came just after reaching the half-century mark when opposing captain Babar Azam put down a straightforward chance at leg-slip off spinner Sajid Khan.

Greaves at that time was almost hobbling after a left leg injury sustained while completing a sharp run that necessitated lengthy treatment on the field.

His sixth-wicket partnership with Roston Chase (36 not out) was worth 66 runs at the close of play and Greaves will be hoping for a return to his usual athletic mobility when he resumes the innings with his captain on the second morning.

He had come to the crease in mid-afternoon at 91 for three as Kavem Hodge became Khan's first wicket. When Amir Jangoo fell to a leg-side catch to give debutant pacer Ubaid Shah his first Test wicket with the first ball of a new spell, Pakistan sensed the chance to break the back of the West Indies resistance.

However Greaves and Shai Hope provided a measure of stability in a 53-run stand until seamer Mohammad Ali, the most impressive of the bowlers on the day, bowled Hope off the inside-edge for 29 to leave the innings in the balance at 173 for five.

- Pakistan omit Abbas -

Earlier, Pakistan's bewildering decision-making - on and off the field of play - highlighted a rain-affected morning session.

Mohammad Abbas, the tourists' best bowler by some distance from the 90-run defeat in the first Test, was dropped despite a match haul of eight for 85, including five for 22 in the second innings.

A second Pakistani debutant, Awais Zafar, got his chance due to the finger injury sustained by former captain Shan Masood while compiling a determined century in the first Test.

Pakistan's think-tank seemed convinced of the wisdom of playing an additional slow bowler on a surface devoid of grass, drafting in Khan as an off-spinning option alongside left-arm orthodox bowler Ali Usman, who went wicketless on debut in the first Test.

Khan's first notable act in the match was to take the catch at long-leg which sent Tagenarine Chanderpaul to the pavilion for 15 as he failed to control a hook shot off Mohammad Ali after a brisk opening stand of 49 with Brandon King.

"We needed those partnerships at the end of the day and it was good to see those guys (Greaves, Hope and Chase) making those contributions," said King in summing up the day's effort.

"It would be nice if we get more of the same from them tomorrow and Justin and Roston can go on to get hundreds."

As easily as the runs flowed, especially off King's bat, in the early exchanges after Chase opted to bat first, both could have been dismissed earlier with more attacking tactics as they each benefited from edges at catchable height through the vacant third slip position.

Mohammad Ali was even pleading with Babar for additional support in the slip cordon following the third of those fortunate escapes.

King's luck ran out though following the 90-minute rain break as Usman snared him for his first Test wicket, leg-before for 46.

Aquib Nabi, the up-and-coming pace bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, replaces Bumrah in the 15-member team, which will play a warm-up game before their opening Test in Galle from August 15.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said Bumrah "has not yet fully recovered from the left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England" last month.

Nabi, who claimed 104 wickets across the last two domestic Ranji Trophy seasons, earns his maiden call-up to the senior national team.

The 29-year-old Nabi was also part of the India A squad that toured Sri Lanka recently, in which he claimed six wickets in two first-class matches.

The 32-year-old Bumrah has not bowled since the second ODI of the England series in Cardiff on July 16 due to an impact injury he suffered in the match.

India, led by Shubman Gill, will play the second Test in Colombo on August 23-27.

Updated India squad: Shubman Gill (capt), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain, Auqib Nabi.

*Subject to fitness clearance

The stunning comeback saw Liverpool handed their first defeat under new coach Andoni Iraola, who arrived this summer from Bournemouth to replace the sacked Arne Slot.

Liverpool had notched a 4-2 win over Sunderland and a 1-0 victory against Wrexham at Yankee Stadium in the first two matches of their US tour.

They looked in control on Sunday with a pair of first-half goals before Leeds stormed back against their English Premier League rivals.

US midfielder Brenden Aaronson launched the fightback in the 60th minute and Calvert-Lewin pulled Leeds level in the 71st, firing in at the back post after Joe Rodon flicked on a long Ethan Ampadu throw.

Sean Longstaff's scuffling finish in the 73rd gave Leeds a 3-2 lead and Calvert-Lewin made it 4-2 with a near-replica of his first goal in the 85th, when Ampadu's throw was sent on by Sebastian Bornauw and he headed in.

The victory was Leeds' second on their US tour, which opened with a 3-2 loss to Wrexham in Tampa, Florida before a 1-0 victory over Sunderland in New Jersey.

Liverpool had opened the scoring in the seventh minute when Dominik Szoboszlai's corner was flicked on by Milos Kerkez and slammed home by Luke Chambers from six yards out.

Florian Wirtz doubled the tally in the 40th minute, tucking in a cross from Jeremie Frimpong.

Germany's Wirtz was one of a trio of World Cup players who returned to action for Liverpool on Sunday, along with Ryan Gravenberch of the Netherlands and Alexander Isak of Sweden.

After waiting through a three-hour thunderstorm delay to start, Pegula won the first set 6-4 and Eala led 2-1 in the second set of the championship match when rain returned.

More than five hours passed with conditions remaining unplayable before organizers called off the resumption of play until Monday.

Also postponed was the entire men's final at the WTA and ATP 500-level hardcourt tournament, with 10th-ranked American Taylor Fritz set to face 19-year-old Spaniard Rafael Jodar.

The women's final will resume Monday at noon local time (1600 GMT) with the men's final not before 1 p.m. in Washington.

Pegula, who won her first WTA title in 2019 at Washington, seeks her 12th tour trophy and third of the year after Dubai and Charleston.

The 32-year-old American top seed defeated Eala in a 2025 Miami semi-final in their only prior meeting.

Philippines star Eala, cheered all week by a host of supporters, seeks her first WTA title in her second career final, having lost last year at Eastbourne.

The 21-year-old left-hander is set to jump to a career-best 24th in the world rankings.

Eala ousted former world number one Naomi Osaka, second seed Elina Svitolina and defending champion Leylah Fernandez to reach the final.

Pegula broke Eala in the fifth game, blasting a forehand service return winner, only for Eala to break back at love to 3-3 on a blistering backhand service return winner.

Pegula saved two break points in holding to 4-4, broke again when Eala sent a forehand long in the ninth game and held at love to capture the first set in 40 minutes when Eala hit a backhand beyond the baseline.

Players were on serve and in a changeover when the rain returned.

In 53 minutes before the stoppage, Pegula hit 14 winners to only four by Eala while both had 20 unforced errors.

In the men's final, Fritz seeks an 11th career ATP title and his first since last year at Eastbourne.

Jodar, assured of reaching a career-high 15th in next week's rankings, seeks his second ATP crown after winning at Morocco in April.

Liutova, ranked 229th in the world, will be the youngest player to contest a WTA final since American Coco Gauff in Austria in 2019.

The first player born in the 2010s to make a WTA final, she called her week in the 250-level event a "miracle journey" after her quarter-final win over sixth-seeded Caty McNally.

In her first WTA main draw match she advanced past top-seeded Ekaterina Alexandrova, who retired with heat illness with Liutova leading 7-6 (7/2), 4-6, 5-4.

She beat Australian Maya Joint in the second round before knocking off McNally 6-3, 6-4.

In Sunday's final she will face either 114th-ranked Czech Darja Vidmanova or 83rd-ranked Renata Zarazua of Mexico.

The Ukraine international winger was suspended for four years after failing a 2024 drug test that revealed the presence of a low concentration of meldonium, a prohibited substance.

He was cleared on Friday to resume his career after the Football Association and the World Anti-Doping Agency "resolved his appeal".

"We are happy, especially for him, because we are not able to understand what he has been through in this time and how he feels at the moment," Alonso said in Sydney.

"We want that he feels part of the team, because he has not had this for a long time, and that he has the support from everyone: from the club, from the teammates, from the staff.

"To be honest, we were not expecting to have this great news at this moment, so we are very happy learning that he will be here with us."

Mudryk will join Chelsea for the next leg of their pre-season tour in Hong Kong where they face Juventus on Wednesday, Alonso said, after a 2-1 defeat to London rivals Tottenham in Sydney on Saturday.

But the Spaniard cautioned that Mudryk's reintegration would be a slow process.

The 25-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk for o62 million ($83 million) in 2023, has not played since November 2024.

"It will take time," Alonso said. "But once there's a change, things will start moving, and for him, it's a massive change (from) training on his own every day.

"I think that had to be really, really hard because he wanted to play football, he wanted to be part of the team, and he was not allowed to do that for such a long time.

"So once this meeting has happened, now we can move on and after we will see if he makes progress quicker or slower. But we need to do the work."

Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi managed Mudryk at Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk and was also happy to see him back.

"He's my son, he's a cool guy, a top player, hopefully he can show what he suffered the last two seasons in this coming season, maybe not against Tottenham, but he's a lovely guy," said the Italian.

Mudryk filed his appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport and changes to WADA procedures in the interim meant that had his failed test produced the same result now, charges would not have been brought.

Two weeks after Argentina's loss to Spain in the World Cup final, Messi was back on the pitch, entering in the 53rd minute to the delight of fans at Miami's Nu Stadium.

But Messi could not mark his return with a goal, twice shooting wide.

Uruguayan Luis Suarez scored his seventh goal in his last four games to put Miami 1-0 up in the 16th minute.

Miami's former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro scored an own goal in the 34th minute which drew Columbus level at 1-1.

Suarez provided the assist for Noah Allen to head Miami into a 2-1 half-time lead

But midfielder Brais Mendez, making his Columbus debut after arriving from Real Sociedad in Spain, curled in a second equalizer from an 84th-minute free-kick.

The result ended Miami's six-match winning streak and kept them in second place in the Eastern Conference behind Nashville, who drew 2-2 at DC United.

Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps remain level at the top of the Western Conference after they drew 1-1 at Vancouver's BC Place.

Son Heung-min extended his scoring streak since the MLS resumed after the World Cup to four goals in four matches as he put Los Angeles ahead in the 37th minute.

But Vancouver's German star Thomas Mueller converted a 76th-minute penalty.

The former Tottenham star Son, who had shouldered much of the blame for South Korea's failure to make it to the knockout rounds of the World Cup, also earned MVP honors in the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday.

Kerr was 12 seconds slower than the mark of 3min 42.66sec he set in London last month to break Hicham El Guerrouj's record that had stood for 27 years.

But the Olympic silver-medallist could afford to whip up the crowd in celebration as he crossed the finish line in Glasgow after pulling well clear of the field.

"This was the championships of my season," said Kerr, who finished a disappointing 12th in Birmingham four years ago.

"I didn't put my performance together like I wanted to in 2022 and I think a British crowd deserves more from me, so I owed them that for sure."

Australia's Cameron Myers took silver and Timothy Cheruiyot of Kenya the bronze as another Scot and former world champion Jake Wightman missed out on the podium.

Abbey Caldwell led home an Australia 1-2-3 in the women's mile ahead of Jessica Hull and Claudia Hollingsworth.

Kenya's Mathew Kipsang produced a decisive kick away from the pack on the final lap to win the men's 5,000m and denied Australia's Ky Robinson double gold after his success in the 10,000m.

Robinson finished second with India's Gulveer Singh taking bronze to add to his 10,000m silver.

Australia edged a thrilling men's 4x100m to win gold from the outside lane.

Lachlan Kennedy, Joshua Azzopardi, Calab Law and Rohan Browning crossed in a time of 38.07 seconds to seemingly edge out Canada.

However, the Canadians were disqualified to bump Nigeria into silver and give Ghana a bronze medal.

In the afternoon session, Samuel Ogazi lived up to expectation to win gold for Nigeria in the men's 400m.

Ogazi, who set the fourth fastest time ever in the 400m earlier this year, was a class apart as he led home Trinidad and Tobago's Jereem Richards and South Africa's Zakithi Nene.

"I didn't want to come out here and disappoint. I just had to go out there and do my thing," said Ogazi, who was not holding back on his ambitions going forward.

"Maybe an Olympic gold, a world championship gold, become the greatest athlete ever. That's what I'm working towards."

Dejeanea Oakley was just as dominant in the women's 400m for one of five Jamaican golds on the track on Saturday.

They stormed to victory in the women's 4x100m and first ever mixed 4x400m Commonwealth final.

Navasky Anderson stormed down the final straight to win the men's 800m, while Jordan Scott landed gold in the men's triple jump.

There were two more Australia golds as Matthew Denny won the discus and Kurtis Marschall the pole vault.

- Jamaicans exact Aussie revenge -

But there will be no Australian gold in the netball after Jamaica produced a huge upset to defeat the holders 46-45 in front of the watching Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, and their children.

Jamaica will face New Zealand in Sunday's final after exacting revenge for defeat in the final four years ago.

"We knew we had it in us. We're carrying a bit of vengeance from the last Commonwealth Games," Jamaican captain Shamera Sterling-Humphrey said.

The royals were also spotted at the velodrome on the Games' "Super Saturday".

"Incredible atmosphere at the Commonwealth Games today. Watching world-class talent compete and seeing the power of sport to bring people together is truly special," the Prince and Princess said in an Instagram post.

Emma Finucane became the first Welsh woman to win three gold medals at a single Commonwealth Games after adding the sprint and 1000 metre time-trial titles to her part in the team sprint on Friday.

"I absolutely love what I do, so I just want to go out there and ride my bike and enjoy every moment," said Finucane, who could add a fourth gold in the keirin on Sunday.

Dressel posted his fastest 50m free time in four years with a victory in 21.35sec, four-tenths of a second quicker than runner-up Quintin McCarty.

He captured his second title of the week after a victory in the 100m free, his first triumph in a major meeting since the 2024 Olympic trials.

Dressel followed that with second places in the 50m and 100m butterfly.

Walsh powered to victory in 23.60sec, just outside the world record of 23.55 she set at the Sette Colli Trophy in Rome on June 28.

"Honestly, I just wanted to execute it really well," Walsh said. I feel like I've had a great summer in that event already and it's not over yet. So this is a great tune-up for Pan Pacs in two weeks."

Walsh's world record last month came a week after training partner Kate Douglass had lowered the world record to 23.59sec at the Pro Swim Series at Indianapolis. Douglass opted not to swim the 50m free on Saturday.

But she and Walsh will be back in the same Irvine pool in August representing the United States in the Pan Pacific Championships -- where they'll be up against top swimmers from Australia, Japan, Canada and other non-European nations.

Dressel, who took a break from the sport after the 2024 Paris Olympics, didn't qualify for the US Pan Pacs team, which was decided based on times last year.

But the American, who turns 30 in August, was enthusiastic about what the week showed about the state of his swimming.

"We'll keep getting quicker," he said. "It's a really exciting year, just so much new."

The 21-year-old Philippines left-hander delivered an impressive victory over the four-time Grand Slam winner from Japan to reach her second career WTA final, having dropped the first last year at Eastbourne.

"I'm super proud of my performance," Eala said. "I played really well and I had a great mentality and I stayed locked in until the end."

Eala, set to jump to a career-best 24th in the world rankings, had previously ousted second seed Elina Svitolina for her sixth top-10 victory of the year after dethroning 2025 Washington champion Leylah Fernandez.

It was the first meeting of the Asian stars, Eala facing one of the idols of her youth.

"She definitely has aura and she definitely has power," Eala said of Osaka. "I remember watching her finals in the Australian Open and US Open so really a great experience to share the court with her and I'm really happy I was able to produce that level against her."

Osaka, ranked 13th, was thwarted in her bid for an eighth career WTA title and first since taking the 2021 Australian Open.

"I hit a lot of unforced errors, so that was probably one of the main reasons," for the loss, Osaka said.

Pegula, seeking her 12th career WTA title and third of the year, eliminated Russia's Diana Shnaider 7-5, 6-4 in the other semi-final.

"It's going to be a battle," Pegula said of the final. "Alex, I'm a big fan of her. She's the future of the tour and she's already here."

Pegula, who won her first WTA title in 2019 at Washington, fell behind 5-2 against Schnaider, but the 32-year-old American top seed battled back to reach her fourth final of the year.

A semi-finalist at this year's Australian Open, Pegula has lifted trophies at Dubai and Charleston this season.

- 'More well rounded' -

Pegula beat Eala in a 2025 Miami semi-final in their only career meeting.

"I'm more well rounded. I'm physically a little bit better. I've improved on a couple of my strokes. Serve has also improved quite a bit," Eala said of her game then and now.

The men's final will send American Taylor Fritz, ranked 10th, against either Chile's Alejandro Tabilo or 19-year-old Spaniard Rafael Jodar.

Fritz fired 13 aces in ousting 33rd-ranked countryman Brandon Nakashima 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.

"I dug very deep just to keep holding," said Fritz, who seeks an 11th career ATP title and first since last year at Eastbourne.

Jodar, assured of cracking the world rankings top 20 next week, won his first ATP title in April at Morocco.

Tabilo, ranked 30th, seeks his fourth career ATP trophy after winning at Auckland and Mallorca in 2024 and last year at Chengdu.

The 29-year-old Richarlison reinforced his importance with a last-minute winner as 10-man Spurs beat Chelsea 2-1 on their pre-season tour in Sydney on Saturday.

He also scored in their 2-0 win over Auckland FC last weekend.

Richarlison's fate has come into focus after Tottenham's aggressive summer of spending to boost their fortunes after avoiding the drop by coming 17th in the Premier League last season.

Tottenham have yet to recruit a striker, but De Zerbi has made clear he is not finished in the transfer market yet with Manchester City forward Savinho among those reportedly in his sights.

"I don't know," De Zerbi said when asked about Richarlison's future after the Chelsea match.

"As a player, as a guy, it is unbelievable his attitude and behaviour, but at the end we have to respect what he wants to do.

"For me he is still an important player because it is not so easy to find another striker as Richarlison, because Richarlison scores goals and he knows the way."

Pressed on whether he would leave, De Zerbi said: "I don't know, I didn't understand well, because sometimes he said to stay, sometimes he leaves.

"We have to speak anyway, there is not any problem. He is a lovely guy.

"All of us love him, the teammates, the club, the staff, because he works hard every day, seriously every day, and we can't say anything else."

Richarlison, who is entering the final year of his contract, scored 12 goals last season.

The organisers believe the participation of foreign professionals will not only enhance the standard of the tournament but also contribute significantly to the overall development of squash in Bangladesh. The organizers said that despite various challenges over the past six years, planned initiatives have ushered in a new era for squash in the country. Sustained development programmes have expanded the game's popularity while enabling Bangladeshi players to progress to the professional level. The organisers further expressed optimism that these continued efforts have helped establish Bangladesh as an emerging squash destination on the international stage.

The Group B favourites are bottom of the table with just one point after two rounds in Moroccan commercial hub Casablanca. Ivory Coast have four points and Burkina Faso and Tanzania three each.

Former champions South Africa must beat Burkina Faso and hope Ivory Coast defeat Tanzania in the final group matches on Tuesday to survive.

Burkina Faso shrugged off conceding four goals against Ivory Coast last Monday to edge Tanzania 2-1 in the other match on Friday.

Before the two-yearly tournament kicked off last Sunday, South Africa were talking up chances of competing at back-to-back World Cup tournaments.

Brazil will host the 2027 edition and the four WAFCON semi-finalists automatically qualify for the 32-nation event.

The losing WAFCON quarter-finalists will get a second chance to reach the World Cup through play-offs, first in Morocco, then in an inter-continental competition.

South Africa made a disastrous debut in their group, conceding a late goal to lose 2-1 against Tanzania, a team 65 places lower than Banyana Banyana (Girls Girls) in the world rankings.

An anticipated revival against the Ivorians did not materialise in the first half and two goals from clinical 18-year-old Grace Sery gave the west Africans a 2-0 half-time lead.

- Last-gasp equaliser -

Realising their World Cup dream was on the verge of collapse, South Africa improved dramatically in the second half and Thembi Kgatlana pulled one goal back on 71 minutes.

But all seemed lost for South Africa when substitute Hildah Magaia had an added-time goal disallowed for offside.

However, Magaia, who helped South Africa reach the last 16 at the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, had the last laugh in the ninth minute of added time.

Another substitute, Ronnel Donnelly, nodded the ball into the goalmouth and unmarked Magaia beat goalkeeper Aramatou Diakite at her near post with a rising shot.

Later, Burkina Faso took advantage of a Tanzanian being red carded 10 minutes after half-time to win 2-1 through an 80th-minute goal from captain Balkissa Sawadogo.

Naomi Kabre put the Burkinabe ahead on 43 minutes with a delicate lob over goalkeeper Najiat Idrisa after Tanzania failed to clear a cross.

Hasnath Ubamba was sent off for raking the right foot of goalkeeper Nina Dabilgou, but Tanzania recovered to equalise after 62 minutes.

Dabilgou tipped a Donisia Minja free-kick on to the post and Aisha Mnunka, reacting quickest to the rebound, poked the ball into the net.

Burkina Faso regained the lead when Sawadogo side-footed a cross past Idrissa. The goal gave the Lady Stallions a first WAFCON victory at the fifth attempt spanning two tournaments.

On Saturday, defending champions Nigeria hope to put a stunning defeat by Malawi behind them when they tackle in-form Group C pacesetters Zambia.

Group B

In Casablanca

Ivory Coast 2 (Sery 18, 36) South Africa 2 (Kgatlana 71, Magaia 90+9)

Burkina Faso 2 (Kabre 43, Sawadogo 80) Tanzania 1 (Mnunka 62)

Standings (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points)

I. Coast 2 1 1 0 6 3 4

B. Faso 2 1 0 1 3 5 3

Tanzania 2 1 0 2 3 3 3

S. Africa 2 0 1 1 3 4 1

Fixtures

Tuesday

In Casablanca

B. Faso v S. Africa, Tanzania v I. Coast (both 2000 GMT)

Note: Group winners and runners-up qualify for quarter-finals

"Our purpose has always been -- and will always be -- to unite and improve," Infantino said in a statement.

"As a result, this proposal will not proceed."

FIFA, world football's governing body, had floated the plan on Tuesday, saying it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a commercial subsidiary it proposed to run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.

It said that, if approved, the project could provide each of FIFA's 211 member associations with a one-off payment of $20 million in early 2027 and increase their funding allocation for the 2027-2030 cycle from $8 million to $20 million.

But the idea of allowing private investors even a small stake in the FFE was quickly condemned.

European football's governing body UEFA said none of its national teams would participate in any FIFA competition "for so long as these proposals remain alive".

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and North American and Caribbean federation (CONCACAF) also condemned the move.

"The World Cup cannot be treated as an investment product," UEFA said in a statement. "No part of it should ever be surrendered to private investors. The World Cup is not for sale."

Pressure mounted on Infantino on Friday with the resignation of senior advisor Carlos Cordeiro, who called the idea "a bad deal for FIFA's member associations, a bad deal for football, and a bad deal for the long-term future of the game".

South American confederation CONMEBOL, whose president Alejandro Dominguez is regarded as a close ally of Infantino, demanded further information on the "scope, structure, governance and potential effects" of the project.

In the late night statement announcing the plan was dead, Infantino said the project was conceived as a means of strengthening member associations, and that it would only have gone ahead if a majority supported it.

"Having listened carefully to all the views, it has become clear that the project has created divisions of a nature that, regardless of the level of support, are no longer in the interest of the objective set out in the first place," he said.

In expressing solidarity with UEFA and CONCACAF, the Kuala Lumpur-based AFC -- which represents 47 member nations -- had raised alarms at the idea of a World Cup boycott.

"The fact that the situation has reached the point where the real possibility of a FIFA World Cup boycott has entered public discourse should concern everyone who cares about the future of our game," the AFC said.

- 'The wrong man' -

FIFA had tried to fend off the critics, saying in a statement early Friday morning that it would continue consultations with member associations and insisting that "nobody is selling football".

But the pressure mounted, and not just within the football community.

A day after the European Union praised UEFA for "defending the integrity of the game," UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Friday that Infantino was "the wrong man" to lead FIFA.

The beleaguered Infantino said he would focus now on restoring harmony while continuing to grow the game.

"Moving forward, my intent is to bring all interested parties back together in the coming days and weeks in the spirit of shared interest in our game, and with the objective to continue growing football everywhere, particularly in those countries that mostly need our support," he said.

Gerhard is expected to begin working with the players currently attending the Asian Games training camp without delay. Speaking briefly upon his arrival in Dhaka, he expressed confidence in the potential of the Bangladesh team. "In my opinion, the team is much better than the results they achieved in the recent tournaments. We have to improve the current situation, and that is exactly what we'll work on," the German coach said. Referring to the challenges ahead and the long-term rewards, he added, "The players will have to go through a very tough period over the coming weeks and work extremely hard. But in the end, they will enjoy the rewards of that hard work."

Recalling his long association with Bangladesh hockey, the German coach also wished the federation's new leadership success. Gerhard has previously served as head coach of the Bangladesh national hockey team on several occasions.

In the ninth or last round games were held on Thursday last, FM Tahsin defeated GM Mikhail Bryakin of Serbia. Earlier, in the eighth or penultimate round, FM Tahsin defeated FIDE Master Artem Postnikov of Serbia. IM Sathvik Adiga of India became champion with 6.5 points.

A total of 10 players including three grandmasters, two International Masters and five FIDE Masters from Bangladesh, Belgium, Bulgaria, India, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia and Ukraine participated in the event which was held in a round-robin league system.

In the fifth round, he defeated his Hungarian Grandmaster (GM) Dávid Bérczes. He played with the white pieces, faced GM D vid B,rczes, who employed the French Defense.

The game continued to the Advance Variation, IM Neer secured an impressive victory at 28 moves.

"Of course if I'm here it's because of him and to help him and Inter Miami," the former Real Madrid midfielder said of the Argentine star who now captains Miami.

"I want to enjoy being with him, help him win, make him even greater. He's one of the gods, if not the god of football," Casemiro said as he was officially introduced by his new Major League Soccer club.

Casemiro, who arrived in MLS after a four-year stint at Manchester United, has already played his first minutes for the Herons in a 1-0 win over Montreal on Saturday.

Argentine star Messi sat that one out less than two weeks after his country's World Cup final defeat to Spain.

Casemiro said he was looking forward to playing alongside, rather than against, Messi, after their many battles in the Spanish league clasicos between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

"I know he's impossible to stop. I never managed it," Casemiro said. "I always needed help from my teammates. And in the two training sessions I've already had with him, it's already clear he's impossible to stop."

Miami co-owner Jorge Mas beamed as he handed over Casemiro's pink jersey and denied there had been any impropriety in signing him despite MLS's investigation into possible "tampering".

The probe focuses on MLS's system of "discovery rights," which must be acquired by a cub before they can start negotiating with some high-profile players.

Casemiro was on LA Galaxy's list, and Mas said he had contacted the club before starting talks with the Brazilian.

"The rules are the rules, and we abided by those rules to the letter of the law," Mas said, saying Miami hadn't entered talks with Casemiro or his representatives before talking to the Galaxy.

Shanto’s side will tour Australia without pacer Nahid Rana, left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam and wicket-keeper batter Liton Das, all ruled out with injuries.

"In Australia, our expectation will definitely be that the pace bowlers take 20 wickets. We also have two experienced spinners who will support them," Shanto said here today.

"The pace bowlers in this squad are capable, and apart from Musfik Hasan, everyone has been playing international cricket for many years. If they bowl to their potential, it is certainly possible for us to take 20 wickets," he said.

The captain said injuries were beyond the team's control and insisted those selected were capable of delivering.

"Injuries are actually beyond our control. Any player can get injured at any time. But I have the belief on my side which is going to Australia. I believe that they can play good cricket," Shanto said.

"It would not be logical to think about whether there could have been better players. What is important is how well we can play with this team and how much faith I have in the players, and I have full confidence in them."

Shanto admitted the importance of the injured trio but said their absence also presented an opportunity for others to establish themselves.

"Nahid Rana, Shoriful and Liton Das are definitely important players. But those who are in the squad have also been playing for many years. This is a big opportunity for those who get the chance to perform," he said.

"It would not be right to expect that I will always have my best players available as captain. I have complete faith in those who have been selected."

Although Bangladesh have not toured Australia for more than two decades, Shanto said adapting quickly to local conditions would be the key to success.

"It is difficult to judge the conditions from here. We will understand them only after we arrive. Whatever the conditions are, as professional cricketers we have to cope with it," he said.

With uncertainty still surrounding the country's premier franchise competition, the BCB has yet to make an official announcement regarding the next edition.

After a board of directors meeting yesterday night, Tamim said the board would emphasize on quality regarding the BPL.

"We will not hold the BPL just for the sake of holding it. I don't think we have enough time," Tamim said.

"If we organize the BPL in the future, we will do it properly. We will organize it the way it should be," he said.

Tamim also spoke about his new role in international cricket administration after being appointed chairman of the ICC's Franchise Cricket Oversight Committee during the recent ICC Board meetings.

He said he attended the informal meeting on July 9 before taking part in the formal sessions on July 11 and 12, where he was warmly received by fellow board members.

"The ICC meeting went well. I joined the first informal meeting on July 9. I attended the formal meetings for two days on July 11 and 12. They welcomed me. I delivered my speech and spoke whenever it was necessary," he said.

Citing the appointment a proud moment for both himself and Bangladesh, Tamim said the committee would oversee the growth and governance of franchise leagues around the world.

"It is a matter of great pride for me and for the country. I was made chairman of a committee on the very first day," he said.

"Franchise leagues are being launched in different countries around the world. Our responsibility is to see whether the proper processes are being followed and whether things that should not be happening are taking place in those leagues.”

He said that his committee has also assigned several other responsibilities apart from the franchise leagues.

“The committee has also been assigned several other responsibilities related to international cricket. We will discuss those issues and take the appropriate steps."

The world governing body announced on Tuesday a plan to create a semi-private subsidiary which would sell part of its business operations in the World Cup and other competitions, hoping to raise $4.2 billion.

It sparked a furious backlash, but Football Australia said they had been contacted by but needed more information before formulating a response.

"Football Australia can confirm it has received correspondence from FIFA regarding its latest commercial proposal," said a statement.

"As this is the first time we have been made aware of the initiative, we are now working to understand the proposal in full.

"We have requested further information from FIFA to properly assess the strategic, commercial, and governance implications of such a significant step.

"We will only be able to form a position after receiving this information and engaging in further dialogue with our peer member associations and our confederation."

The plan would have to be approved by FIFA's 38-member council and the majority of its 211 member associations.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino championed the proposal as "a golden opportunity to turbocharge the development of the game globally".

But critics, led by UEFA, said it "crosses a line" and the "soul and governance of football are not assets to trade".

Los Angeles FC's South Korean star Son struck in the 20th and 23rd minutes to flip the script after Luis Gabriel Rey put the Liga MX All-Stars ahead.

"I'm very happy, and I just want to say thank you to everyone," Son said after he was named All-Star MVP.

The 34-year-old former Tottenham star had shouldered the blame for South Korea's failure to make it to the knockout rounds of the World Cup.

But he's been in red-hot form since MLS resumed in the wake of its World Cup break with three goals in three matches for LAFC.

Son pulled the MLS side level in the 20th, collecting a pass from Carles Gil on the left and firing a low shot past goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo.

He put the MLS All-Stars ahead for good just minutes later with a spectacular volley off another assist from New England Revolution playmaker Gil.

Chicago Fire midfielder Philip Zinckernagel's 42nd-minute strike sent the MLS side into half-time ahead 3-1.

Salomon Rondon scored in the 55th minute to keep the Liga MX side within striking distance, but FC Cincinnati playmaker Evander restored the two-goal advantage in the 55th minute, shortly before Vancouver's German star Thomas Mueller took the field.

The MLS side needed the cushion, with Jose Paradela adding some late drama with a stoppage time goal for Liga MX.

The second straight victory for the MLS All-Stars in the mid-season exhibition extended their record over Liga MX teams to 4-1.

Superstar Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate were excused from the mid-season exhibition, 10 days after Argentina fell to Spain in the World Cup final.

Miami posted a video on social media on Wednesday showing Messi back in training with his club teammates.

But it remains unclear when the 39-year-old will return to competition.

MLS's biggest draw Messi has never appeared in the All-Star Game.

The 2023 All-Star squad had already been announced when he arrived in the league that year and in 2024 he was sidelined by an ankle injury.

Last year Messi and teammate Jordi Alba were suspended one game for failing to participate.

The all-rounder called it quits in extraordinary fashion during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in late June, making his exit public on the fourth afternoon.

The bombshell announcement came after he returned to duty following the fall-out from a London nightclub incident also involving teammate Gus Atkinson earlier that month.

Brendon McCullum was sacked soon after as England's red-ball coach, with British media reporting this week that another New Zealander, Stephen Fleming, is poised to take over.

McDonald, whose side travel to England for the latest instalment of the Ashes next year, said Stokes still had plenty to offer and his return would be an ideal storyline for the series.

"The fairytale would be that he comes back out of retirement and takes on one more Ashes and builds a lot of hype on the way in," McDonald told Australian radio station SEN late Wednesday.

"If you're looking at promoting that series, that's probably the angle that you would want, that he comes out of retirement.

"To me, he's still got a lot of good cricket left in him," he added.

"It'll be a fascinating watch. I think that whoever the new head coach that comes in potentially has a conversation with him."

Stokes, who is still playing at domestic level for Durham, is only 35.

By comparison, Australia could field as many five players in their Test against Bangladesh next month who are older -- Nathan Lyon (38), Steve Smith and Scott Boland (both 37), Mitchell Starc (36) and Josh Hazlewood (35).

"We don't know why Ben left. I don't think there's been anything on the record around the definitive reason as to why," added McDonald.

"He may have just called it a day on Test cricket, and that's it, so there might be a full stop there.

"Or there might be an opportunity for that new head coach to potentially twist his arm and bring him back in."

Teenage forward Rio Ngumoha scored from close range in the 75th minute, greeted by a roar from a largely pro-Liverpool crowd of more than 42,000 at the famous baseball stadium, the home of the New York Yankees and Major League Soccer's New York City FC.

The victory followed a 4-2 win over Sunderland in Nashville on Saturday, Iraola's first match in charge since the former Bournemouth manager replaced the sacked Arne Slot.

That victory was marred by an injury to defender Joe Gomez, who was among the absentees Wednesday along with new signing Jeremy Jacquet and World Cup players Ryan Gravenberch, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.

Iraola said before the game that the Netherlands' Gravenberch, Germany's Wirtz and Sweden's Isak could be back for the final game of Liverpool's US tour, against Leeds at Chicago's Soldier Field on Sunday.

Wrexham, on the rise in recent years under the ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, missed out on the second-tier Championship playoffs on the final day of last season.

Phil Parkinson's side arrived at Yankee Stadium after pre-season victories over Manchester United and Leeds.

A proposal to sell stakes in FIFA's major competitions sparked disbelief and outrage globally since it was revealed Tuesday, but Infantino defended the idea, saying too little of football's commercial value reached the parts of the game that need it most.

"FIFA Forward Enterprise, or FFE, is actually a proposal, an offer. It's part of a democratic process - a consultation process - and, above all, it is an opportunity but not an obligation," Infantino said in a video released Wednesday evening.

"It is a golden opportunity to turbocharge the development of the game globally. But again, it is just an offer, not an obligation."

Infantino insisted the proposal was centred on unlocking "previously uncaptured commercial value" and was conditional on a democratic vote of FIFA's 211 member associations and approval by the FIFA council.

"Capturing that value requires additional expertise, additional insight, distinct from governing and developing the sport," he said.

"It would simply commercialise and organise all FIFA-owned competitions along with sponsorship, broadcast, licensing and new ventures for the benefit of FIFA's 211 member associations."

Infantino said the game would not change and the fans would be happier.

"Fans from everywhere in the world would gain immeasurably from this game-changing potential because it will transform football in their countries," he said.

Neer bagged 1.5 points from the first two rounds.

In the first round, IM Neer defeated FIDE Master Lucius Melillo of the United States while  in the second round, he split point with FIDE Master Aarav Sinha of India.

The tournament features 10 players from Bangladesh, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Serbia, Slovakia, and the United States, including three Grandmasters, one Woman Grandmaster, three International Masters, and equal number of FIDE Masters.

Shelton struggled when the match resumed after a delay of more than two hours, but came through 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 against his American compatriot in his first hardcourt match ahead of the US Open.

"Happy that I was mentally stable and tough enough to get through that match," said the 23-year-old left-hander, who is seeking his fourth ATP tour title of the year after triumphing in Dallas, Munich and Stuttgart.

Shelton, the world number eight, next faces French left-hander Ugo Humbert for a quarter-final berth.

Shelton led 6-4, 4-3 when play was halted, then saw Damm hold, break on a long forehand and hold again to force a third set.

After trading breaks in the third and fourth games, Shelton broke on a backhand crosscourt volley winner at 5-4 to settle matters after 2hr 9min.

"A tricky match to be in command, in the driver's seat of the match and feel like playing really well, then have a rain delay and the guy come out on fire," Shelton said.

"That was tough to swallow losing that second set the way I did, but happy with the way I fought."

Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Williams, 46, suffered her 12th consecutive defeat, 6-3, 6-3 to Austria's Anastasia Potapova in a first-round match.

Williams has not won a WTA match since a first-round triumph over American Peyton Stearns in Washington last year.

Cruz Hewitt, the 17-year-old son of former world number one Lleyton Hewitt, captured his first ATP Tour victory.

The Aussie teen, ranked 612th in the world, ousted fellow qualifier Marcos Giron of the United States 6-3, 6-4 in 74 minutes in his ATP main draw debut.

Among his father's 30 career ATP titles was the 2004 Washington crown.

"It's a pretty special moment," Hewitt said.

"Seeing my dad play this tournament and to get my first tour win, it feels really cool."

Hewitt will next play the winner of a match postponed to Wednesday between Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas and Australian newlywed Alex de Minaur, the top seed and defending champion.

Alexandra Eala, who made global headlines when beating Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon and becoming the first Philippines player to reach the last 16 of a Grand Slam, rallied to defeat China's Zheng Qinwen 4-6, 6-4, 6-1 after 2hr 26min.

Eala, 21, will face defending champion and seventh seed Leylah Fernandez of Canada on Wednesday for a place in the last eight.

Pavel Graudyn, 19, defeated South Korean Do Gyeong-dong 15-7 in the men's individual sabre final on Tuesday, having earlier stunned France's top-seed Sebastien Patrice in the last 16.

It was the first major championship since the International Fencing Federation (FIE) lifted all restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes on June 2.

The sanctions had been imposed in 2022 after the invasion of Ukraine and consequent war, with Russian and Belarusian fencers allowed to participate only as neutrals.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) earlier this month lifted some restrictions allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in team events and qualifying for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

Ukraine slammed the IOC decision as "premature" and "unfounded" after more than four years of conflict since Russia's invasion.

Governing bodies for swimming, gymnastics, judo, taekwondo and wrestling have also recently lifted restrictions on Russian and Belarusian athletes.

Dressel won the 100m final in 47.70sec, his fastest time since the 2024 US Olympic trials, touching 0.11 ahead of Brooks Curry.

The 29-year-old Floridian won the 100m freestyle at the Tokyo Olympics and is a two-time world champion in the event.

Moesch won in 51.88sec to lower the national mark of 51.94 she set on May 25 in London.

Junior world champion Rylee Erisman was second in 52.92 with Liberty Clark third in 52.97.

The 24-year-old was snapped up from Brighton a year ago and scored 20 goals across all competitions in his first season at Stamford Bridge to be named player of the season by club supporters.

But his penalty-box prowess was not enough to book a spot in Brazil's World Cup squad.

Alonso said that Joao Pedro, who bagged a nine-minute hat-trick as a second-half substitute in Chelsea's 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers on Tuesday, had been fired up in training.

"He's very hungry -- Joao is really, really determined to have a great season," said Alonso.

"After a great last year where he scored many goals, I think that he wants to keep scoring more and more. But we need to help him, as on his own it's not possible.

"He will have the players around him and they need to have this hunger to score as well. It's not just about the striker, but every time that we win and our striker scores, I am happy."

Chelsea are reportedly looking to offload some forwards after the arrival of attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, but Joao Pedro will almost certainly not be one of them.

He said he felt liberated playing under former Liverpool star Alonso, who is tasked with getting Chelsea back to the top after their disappointing 10th place last season.

"He's a very open coach. We talk a lot. I feel free," said the Brazilian, who began his career at Fluminense.

"When I play in front I move a lot, so he gives that option for me. Sometimes I can play on the left, sometimes in the middle. So that's what I've learned from him.

"I want to achieve the highest level possible with the team," he added.

"I always want to try to score to help my team and hopefully next season can be better than last season."

While Joao Pedro excelled, fellow striker Liam Delap looked stiff up front and struggled to create chances in a youthful team before being replaced after 60 minutes.

Delap has been linked with a move to Everton, but Alonso insisted he was "doing well".

"I see him in a good mood, in a good desire to get proper fitness, proper football, feeling good, and he's doing well," he said of the England youth international.

Despite some defensive frailties and early season rust, Alonso said his first match in the Chelsea dugout was encouraging with no injuries of note.

"The more situations we have where we are struggling and we find the solutions, the better team we will be. So, for that, this friendly will be useful," he said.

Chelsea's pre-season tour continues with a friendly against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in Sydney on Saturday before matches in Hong Kong, Indonesia and Malaysia.

Fox triumphed at the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale in England just over a week ago, holding his nerve over a knee-knocking 12-foot putt on the final green to finish 10-under par and win by one stroke.

The only other New Zealander to lift the Claret Jug was Bob Charles in 1963, at Lytham and St Annes just along the English north-west coast from Birkdale. Only two other New Zealanders have ever won golf majors.

Michael Campbell triumphed at the 2005 US Open at Pinehurst and Lydia Ko won three women's majors, including the 2024 British Women's Open at St Andrews.

"It's been a whirlwind few days since winning the Open," Fox told the crowds who turned out to see him and the famous Claret Jug winner's trophy, which dates back to 1872.

"To be fair, my head is still spinning as I take in what I've achieved and what's to come.

"One of the first things I wanted to do was come home and share this incredibly special time with my family, friends and all the Kiwis who have supported me throughout my career."

People spilled onto a nearby street as they tried to catch a glimpse of the 39-year-old, who received boisterous cheers when he hoisted the trophy for his fans.

Fox, renowned for taking little time over his shots, raised another ovation when he spoke of becoming the "face of the pace of play movement" in golf.

- Australian major? -

Fox started his professional career on courses such as Royal Auckland, before playing on circuits in Australia, Europe and the PGA Tour in the United States.

Fox was asked by reporters if the Australian Open should become a fifth major, hosted by the famous links-like sandbelt courses in Melbourne.

Fox said it would be "hard to break the tradition" but added it would match the women's circuit which already has five majors.

"International golf is huge. I think golf in Australia is huge. The Australian Open at Royal Melbourne last year was incredible," Fox told a media conference.

"They have the quality of golf course to be able to do it.

"But that's for people a whole lot smarter than me to figure out."

Fox received a call after winning the Open from fellow New Zealander Ko, who had been in tears watching the closing holes.

Ko won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics but has said she intends to retire and not play at Los Angeles in 2028.

But Fox, with an eye on the new mixed tournament at the 2028 Games, said he might have a gentle conversation with Ko about rethinking her decision.

"It's amazing to see her achieve what we all thought she could," Fox said of Ko, who also has silver and bronze Olympic medals from Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.

"I know she's been pretty vocal about wanting to retire early, and motherhood is calling.

"She's been in the public eye since she was 15 years old, she's got the right to do whatever she wants.

"Selfishly for me, it would be really cool to be able to do that in '28 with her, but if she's retired by then, that's cool. She deserves everything."

Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah also returns in a 15-player squad, but will need to be cleared to play after a fitness assessment, as will batsman Sai Sudharsan.

The first Test is in Galle from August 15-19 with the second in Colombo on August 23-27.

Left-arm spinner Jadeja suffered an elbow injury during the Indian Premier League and missed India's one-off Test win against Afghanistan last month.

All-rounder Saransh Jain, who bowls offspin, has been handed a maiden call-up.

Shubman Gill will be captain in India's first series in the current World Test Championship (WTC) since the 2-0 home defeat to South Africa in November.

India are fifth in the WTC standings, which are led by Australia, with Sri Lanka sixth.

India squad: Shubman Gill (capt), KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Sai Sudharsan*, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Jasprit Bumrah*, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Devdutt Padikkal, Saransh Jain

*Subject to fitness clearance

Italy's De Zerbi took over from sacked interim boss Igor Tudor in March when Tottenham were winless in the Premier League in 2026.

He steered them to 17th place and survival with a tense 1-0 win over Everton on the last day of the season and has begun building a new squad with an aggressive summer of spending.

England international Maddison, who missed the majority of last season with a serious knee injury, said in Sydney he was pumped up for the next chapter.

"The manager is very clear, the goal is to be better, to play better football, to be passionate, to be proud to play for this club," said Maddison, who is reportedly set to be named Spurs' new captain.

"I'm still learning the way he plays. But as a player, he's a coach you want to play for because he loves everything with the ball. He's very attacking, and I'm really excited."

The club opened their pre-season tour with an entertaining 2-0 win over A-League champions Auckland FC in New Zealand on Sunday with goals from Dane Scarlett and Richarlison.

They face Sydney FC on Wednesday then meet London rivals Chelsea in Sydney three days later.

"First game of the season, Brentford. It's a big season for us under a new manager. We want to have a successful season," added Maddison of their opening Premier League game on August 22.

"We need to be better than the last couple of seasons. So it's kind of all just preparation leading to that first game.

"We're just stepping up what we've been working on and creating the team, how we want to play and the style we want to play."

De Zerbi's big-money signings so far include midfielders Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle. He also raided his old club Brighton for centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke.

Full-back Andy Robertson, centre-back Marcos Senesi and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka have all arrived on free transfers as the squad takes on a new look.

As much as the tourists were buoyed by the effort of their bowlers in the second half of another sun-scorched day, spearheaded by the metronomic Mohammad Abbass, that only partially compensated for an abrupt batting collapse which handed the home side a 29-run first innings advantage.

Pakistan capitulated from the dominant position of 244 for three in mid-morning on the third day to the despair of 282 all out just after lunch. The collapse was engineered by West Indies seamer Justin Greaves, whose controlled bowling earned him career-best Test figures of five for 27.

With the cricketing world, in mourning at the passing of the game's greatest all-rounder, Garfield Sobers, Greaves' all-round skills were both timely and necessary. Later in the day he briefly helped stem the clatter of Caribbean wickets as Pakistan fought back tigerishly on an increasingly two-paced pitch.

His day did not have the storybook finish, the right-hander was superbly caught for 20 by diving Pakistan captain Babar Azam at cover to give Abbas his third wicket.

"We didn't execute our plans the way we should have on the first day but for the second day and the second innings our bowlers hit the right areas and bowled a bit up (fuller)," said Pakistan bowling coach Umar Gul, who was particularly pleased with the way Abass led the attack.

"He is so experienced. He's played a lot of red ball cricket and is not only leading from the front but is helping the younger bowlers as well," the former Pakistan pacer added.

Pakistan seemed to be sailing into a dominant position led by captain Shan Masood's seventh Test century but lost seven wickets for 38 runs as the comfort of 244 for three became 282 all out in reply to the West Indies first innings total of 311.

After Shamar Joseph comprehensively bowled Salman Agha to break a fourth-wicket stand of 47, Greaves took over in a mesmerising spell. His disciplined wicket-to-wicket bowling reaping a swift harvest.

Masood was Greaves' first wicket, bowled for 109, an innings which spanned over five hours in which he faced 184 deliveries and struck 12 fours.

From then on it was the Greaves show as he scythed through the Pakistan middle and lower-order, only to be stalled by the resistance of the last-wicket pair, necessitating the second new ball and veteran pacer Kemar Roach to end the innings with the wicket of Khurram Shazad.

At the end of the day, Roach defied the rampant Pakistan bowlers while at the other end, Joseph was smashing three sixes in an unbeaten 22, runs which could prove crucial on what will likely be a decisive fourth day.

The American third seed, seeking his 11th career ATP title and first since last year at Eastbourne, needed only 79 minutes to complete a 6-3, 6-4 triumph.

Wimbledon quarter-finalist Fritz fired eight aces and took all four break points he faced to advance into a second-round match against countryman Tommy Paul or Poland's Kamil Majchrzak.

"He had a few break chances, but when I served out the first and went up a break in the second, I felt like the momentum was on my side," Fritz said. "It's really good to get out of those games and to finish the match unbroken."

Britain's Jack Draper withdrew from the event with a left arm injury after also missing Wimbledon. American Mackenzie McDonald replaced him in the field as a lucky loser.

"These last months have felt like nothing but adversity and setbacks," Draper wrote on Instagram. "Most days I've spent in doubt, yet hopeful that I can keep taking positive steps forward and finding ways to progress."

Australian top seed and defending champion Alex de Minaur, who won his 11th career ATP title in February by taking his third consecutive Rotterdam Open crown, was idle. He will face Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the first round.

Also advancing Monday were fourth seed Lorenzo Muzetti, who won when fellow Italian Matteo Arnaldi retired down 6-0, 3-1, and Chile's Alejandro Tabilo, who defeated Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-4.

On the women's side, defending champion and seventh seed Leylah Fernandez of Canada beat Poland's Magda Linette 6-1, 6-4 in 79 minutes in her opening match.

"Overall my game was solid. I didn't give away too many free points, which definitely helped a lot," 2021 US Open runner-up Fernandez said.

"I'm feeling very good. So many good memories so starting off a win definitely helps."

Fernandez will next meet either Alexandra Eala of the Philippines or China's Zheng Qinwen.

US eighth seed Emma Navarro downed compatriot Sofia Kenin 6-0, 7-5 to book a second-round date against Italy's Elisabetta Cocciaretto, who outlasted Denmark's Clara Tauson 4-6, 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/2).

Venus Williams, a 46-year-old former world number one who has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, teamed with Russia's Diana Shnaider to win their women's doubles opener 6-3, 6-4 over Ulrikke Eikeri of Norway and American Quinn Gleason.

Bashar led selection panel yesterday announced the team for the first cricket Test against Australia amid the several players injury concern. 

He said the selectors had hoped to finalize the squad much earlier, with the Test side having developed into Bangladesh's most settled unit after a string of encouraging performances in recent series. However, injuries to several frontline players at the last moment forced them to alter their plans.

"We waited as long as possible in the hope that at least some of them would recover in time for one Test, but that didn't happen. In cricket, you don't always get your best XI. We've selected the best possible squad from the players who are fit and available, and we're optimistic about doing well," he said.

Explaining the recall of wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali, the selector said the decision to leave him out earlier was not based on poor performances but to allow him to regain form and confidence through domestic and High Performance matches.

"He did exactly what we expected, scored runs and proved he was ready to return. That's why Jaker was our first choice," he said.

He also clarified that backup wicketkeeper Mahidul Islam Ankon remained in Bangladesh's long-term plans despite missing out on the Australia tour. Ankon is expected to feature for the Bangladesh Emerging team against South Africa Emerging team as part of the management's effort to prepare players for a busy international schedule.

Providing an update on Liton Das, Bashar said initial scans had shown no major damage, but further examinations in Singapore revealed swelling rather than a tear, meaning the batter would now undergo a phased rehabilitation program before returning to action.

Reflecting on Bangladesh's Test defeat to Zimbabwe, the selector dismissed the notion that the bowling attack was responsible for the loss, instead blaming the batting unit.

"I believe we lost the match because of our batting. Had we scored more than 300 in the first innings, the game could have been completely different. Taijul Islam took seven wickets and our bowling attack consisted of experienced Test bowlers," he said.

On batting plans for Australia, Bashar, also a former Bangladesh skipper urged the players to adopt a positive approach rather than reckless aggression.

"My belief is that Australian bowlers always try to put opponents under pressure and don't expect teams to counterattack. If our batters can play with confidence, that approach could work well for us," he said.

The chief selector explained that Towhid Hridoy had been left out of the Australia squad because he was unlikely to break into the playing XI and would benefit more from playing four-day matches against South Africa 'A'.

He also spoke on uncapped Mushfik Hasan, saying that the pacer’s inclusion was based on Australian conditions, where his pace and ability to hit the deck could be effective.

Bashar said the team wanted a right-handed opening batter to balance a top order featuring several left-handers. 

While Mahmudul Hasan Joy remained in the selectors' plans, he has been sent to the 'A' team to regain confidence through runs, while the experienced Soumya Sarkar was preferred because of his familiarity with Australian conditions.

Squad for 1st Test: Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Soumya Sarkar, Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Amite Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Vice Captain), Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Musfik Hasan.

Opening the innings for Galle, Sohan made a blistering start, scoring 29 off just 13 balls, including three fours and a six, to lay the platform as his side amassed 220-6 before restricting Dambulla Sixers to 176-7 for 44-run victory.

"Alhamdulillah, it feels great. The best feeling is that I was able to contribute to the team and help us win the match," Sohan said after the game.

"I found out in the morning that I would be playing. I spoke with the coach and captain Dasun Shanaka. We felt we needed a better start from the opening or top order, and Alhamdulillah, I was able to do that for the team."

Sohan's aggressive knock gave Galle early momentum, allowing the middle order to capitalize and post a competitive total.

Regarding his attacking approach, the Bangladesh batter said he hopes to maintain his form as the tournament progresses.

"Our team is also doing well. I hope I can finish the tournament strongly. It feels good that the team was able to win. We still have two league matches left, and I hope I can continue to perform well," he said.

Sohan also acknowledged the unwavering support of Bangladesh's cricket fans, saying their passion serves as a constant source of motivation.

"The love people in Bangladesh have for cricket is different from anywhere else. It's hard to express in words. When we don't perform well, we also feel bad. When we do well, they are the first people we think of. It's a different feeling. I am trying to do well in this tournament, and hopefully we can finish it on a high," he said.

In the day's match, both the teams got several scoring chances but failed to break the deadlock lack of proper finishing and eventually both the sides had to leave the field sharing point.

Spurs have embarked on an aggressive summer of spending to boost their fortunes after avoiding the drop by coming 17th, but it was a nail-biting outcome that went down to the wire.

Big-money signings include midfielders Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle. De Zerbi also raided his old club Brighton for centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke.

Full-back Andy Robertson, centre-back Marcos Senesi and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka have all arrived on free transfers as the squad takes on a new look.

De Zerbi, in Sydney on a pre-season tour, said he expected more when the new campaign begins on August 22 and outlined that he wanted to "build a new team with the qualities, with big players, but with soul, with passion, with all the values we have".

The Italian added: "Football now is not just on the pitch, it's not just with the ball, it's before, it's in life. It's how many hours during the day you think about your job."

Spurs opened their pre-season tour with an entertaining 2-0 win over A-League champions Auckland FC in New Zealand on Sunday with goals from Dane Scarlett and Richarlison.

They face Sydney FC on Wednesday then meet London rivals Chelsea in Sydney three days later.

De Zerbi started with a host of younger players in Auckland, before more of a first team feel in the final 30 minutes when the likes of Fernandes, Richarlison, Conor Gallagher and Ben Davies all got a run.

"We didn't concede, we didn't suffer any injuries and this is big news, important news, especially for the beginning of the season," said De Zerbi.

He suggested there could be more signings before the transfer window closes.

"I think we can be happier at the end of this transfer market because I spoke a lot of time with the owner, with the board and they want to build a very strong team for this season, to make the days for the future become great again," he said.

The Spaniard officially began the job on July 1 and will take charge of his first competitive fixture in Sydney on Tuesday when they face Western Sydney Wanderers.

He faces a huge task to get Chelsea back in the running for major honours after their disappointing 10th place finish last season and failure to make Europe.

They last won the Premier League a decade ago, under Italian manager Antonio Conte.

Alonso, who has made a series of pre-season signings headlined by Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, said he liked what he had seen so far.

"We want to build a competitive team. We are in that process. We have great quality, great talent," he said.

"We need to know what it takes to compete in the Premier League, and we want to have a squad with the right balance between quality and mentality.

"But I think that we are starting the new season with good energy, that's going to be important."

The former Liverpool and Spain midfielder rose to prominence as one of Europe's brightest coaches by guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten German league and cup double in the 2023/24 season.

However, he lasted just seven months in the Real Madrid hotseat. Appointed last year, he departed the Spanish giants in January.

Alonso is associated with a short passing game and implemented a 3-4-2-1 system at Leverkusen that proved so successful.

But he has also shown pragmatism in his tactics, a trait he plans to bring to Chelsea.

"We will be flexible in our tactics, in our approaches, game plans," he said, conscious of not trying to impose a completely different system from last season.

"It's not that I'm changing everything. It's about updating. It's about developing something that they have done with new concepts that each manager has.

"But the good thing is that many things that I like they have already done. So now it's about changing or updating a few other things."

Since Chelsea last won the Premier League, several managers have come and gone after failing to repeat the feat, and the pressure is on Alonso to snap the drought.

But he said it was too early to say what would be considered a successful season.

"I don't want to talk too early about what's our goal," said the 44-year-old, who signed a four-year contract.

"We want to deserve to be as high as possible, and for that we need to work hard. We need to develop this team with new players, with new ideas, but sometimes it takes longer, sometimes it happens quicker.

"But so far, a good feeling, good energy. The players are working hard, and that's what we want."

In ceremonies at the Hall of Fame's home city of Cooperstown, New York, Beltran became only the sixth player from his homeland to be enshrined.

"It's very incredible that I have both of my parents here," Beltran said. "We brought probably like 150 people from the island, all family members and close friends, so they're excited and I'm excited too."

Beltran, 49, was a nine-time Major League Baseball All-Star who batted .279 with 2,725 hits, 435 home runs and 1,587 runs batted in over 20 seasons with seven clubs, closing his career in 2017 by helping the Houston Astros to a World Series title.

Jones, 49, became the first player from Dutch territory Curacao inducted into the Hall after managing a Netherlands team in this year's World Baseball Classic that included his son.

"Baseball is my life, so to get a chance to represent your country, manage your country and get a chance to coach my son on the professional level, it was fun," Jones said.

He batted .254 with 434 home runs and 1,289 runs batted in over 17 MLB seasons, mostly for Atlanta. He spent two final seasons in Japan before retiring in 2014.

Kent, 58, is a five-time All-Star like Jones who batted .290 with 2,461 hits, 377 homers and 1,518 RBI. He spent most of his 17 MLB seasons with San Francisco.

Spurs coach Roberto De Zerbi rested most of his top players as the English Premier League side dominated a match played in damp conditions in front of a record Eden Park crowd.

The 40,112 who packed into New Zealand's famed rugby ground was the biggest to watch a men's football match in New Zealand.

It surpassed the previous best of 37,034 for a New Zealand World Cup qualifying match against Peru in 2017.

They were treated to a fast-paced contest, even if both sides were missing several of their best players.

Tottenham have embarked on an aggressive summer of spending after narrowly avoiding relegation last season, when they finished 17th

However, the the only notable new signing to take the field was former West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, who scored in the 1-0 win over MK Dons in London on Wednesday.

De Zerbi said he would ease others into the tour, with Tottenham to play games in Sydney next week against A-League side Sydney FC and London rivals Chelsea.

"It's a chance for the young players," De Zerbi told TVNZ before kickoff, declaring Brighton signing Jan Paul van Hecke and former Liverpool stalwart Andy Robertson not yet up to speed.

"After a very long trip, we can't take a risk with the players who are not ready to play yet."

Record club signing Sandro Tonali wasn't considered because the former Newcastle United midfielder had suffered an unspecified injury -- "one small problem" -- before the team left London, De Zerbi added.

Fernandes entered the game with half an hour remaining and Spurs bagged their second goal shortly afterwards through the work of two other substitutes.

Mathys Tel burst into the box and set up a tap-in for seasoned forward Richarlison, who was omitted from Brazil's World Cup squad.

Scarlett, one of several Spurs Academy players in action, opened the scoring in the 12th minute, pouncing after Auckland goalkeeper Michael Woud parried Manor Solomon's shot.

"From my experience, when I was 16 I had two big concussions so I was aware of the risk," Varane said in a video posted by Como on Friday. "I had the luck during my career to meet some very specific staff; some medical professionals. "I learned a lot from them. I learned a lot from them about the effect of concussion," the 33-year-old added having finished his career with the side based on the famous lake in the Alps. Governing bodies across Europe have introduced similar rules due to a worry about brain development.

England's FA is phasing out all heading in youth football up to under-11 level and in France it is prohibited until under-10. "At a young age when everything is developing it's really important to delay the amount of heading and the amount of impact there is," Como's head of player and coaches' development said. "By delaying it, bringing it in gradually over a number of years, we can help protect the players," the former Wales assistant coach added. Earlier this month, a court ruled England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles died with a brain condition caused by repeatedly heading a football.

Expert analysis of his brain showed his severe dementia was as a result of Alzheimer's disease but also the condition, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which has been associated with head trauma from heading a ball. Other sports such as American football and rugby union have been linked with brain injuries for decades due to the contact nature of the disciplines.

Luis Suarez converted a penalty in the 81st minute to secure the victory after Miami's Mexico international German Berterame was injured in a sickening clash of heads.

Berterame crashed to the turf and lay motionless after Efrain Morales made contact as they jumped for the ball.

Players from both teams immediately signalled for help and, after treatment by medics and a long delay, Bertrame was taken from the pitch in an ambulance.

Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said later that Berterame was "OK and conscious".

"His family has been informed of everything. We didn't know what to do -- it was a very desperate situation."

Suarez converted the ensuing penalty and held up Berterame's jersey to mark the goal.

The Uruguayan former Liverpool and Barcelona forward extended his scoring streak to six goals in his last three matches, taking his total for the season to nine.

Casemiro, who has 91 caps for Brazil and won five Champions League titles with Real Madrid, made his first appearance for Miami since arriving this week from Manchester United.

The 34-year-old controlled the tempo in midfield throughout the match, but both teams struggled with poor finishing.

Messi and his Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul both missed a second straight game in the wake of Argentina's defeat to Spain in the World Cup final last weekend.

MLS officials said Saturday that Messi would not be required to play in next week's All-Star game.

Miami have won both their matches since MLS resumed after the World Cup, taking their win streak to six and leaving them two points behind Eastern Conference leaders Nashville, who lost 1-0 at Orlando City.

Chicago Fire, beaten by Miami on Wednesday, lost 3-1 to New York City FC at Yankee Stadium to leave Robert Lewandowski still in search of a first victory since signing from Barcelona.

Agustin Ojeda, Nicolas Fernandez and Malachi Jones scored for New York with Joel Waterman on target for Chicago.

Inter Miami superstar Messi had been sanctioned last year for skipping the annual showcase, which pits top players from across MLS against rivals from the Mexican Liga-MX.

Participation is usually mandatory, with exceptions for injury.

But this year, the World Cup took place in the middle of the MLS season, which paused for a seven-week break, and the league confirmed exceptions had been pre-arranged for players reaching the international tournament's final stages.

"Prior to the start of the 2026 season, Major League Soccer and the MLS Players Association agreed that upon a player's exit from the World Cup competition, clubs would have individual conversations with each player to determine the appropriate rest and return to training and competition timeline," said the statement.

"Consistent with that agreement, Rodrigo De Paul and Lionel Messi will be excused from participating in the 2026 MLS All-Star Game."

Fellow Argentine De Paul also featured in last Sunday's World Cup final in New Jersey, which Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.

Messi had been among the first 11 players named to the MLS squad for this year's All-Star Game, which takes place in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday.

In his absence, stars will include Los Angeles FC's Son Heung-min, the Vancouver Whitecaps' Thomas Muller, and US national team captain Tim Ream, who plays for Charlotte.

Last year, Messi and then-Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba were slapped with a one-game suspension for skipping the All-Star Game at the last minute.

MLS commissioner Don Garber at the time expressed sympathy for Messi's grueling schedule, saying it had been a "very difficult decision" and that the league's long-standing All-Star Game policy would be reviewed.

Nonetheless, Inter Miami's billionaire co-owner Jorge Mas said Messi was "very upset" by the suspension.

Test cricket's newest venue - the 13th in the Caribbean - offered a pitch which made free scoring difficult while the tourists' seam-based attack lacked the necessary firepower to compensate for the turgid surface.

Hodge displayed the necessary application in four hours at the crease with only Mohammad Abbass' persistence presenting him with any significant challenges in an innings so far occupying 181 deliveries, embellished by nine boundaries.

Fresh from a century earlier in the month in the second and final Test against Sri Lanka in Antigua, Hope batted with calm assurance, his knock of 39 not out in partnership with Hodge taking the home side from the unease of 106 for three in mid-afternoon.

Persisent rain allowed for just over an hour's play after West Indies captain Roston Chase won the toss and opted to bat.

In that time Abbass made an early strike when Brandon King dragged a wide delivery onto his stumps.

When play resumed half-an-hour after the scheduled lunch interval, Hodge and the other opener, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, pushed their second-wicket stand to 51 before Aamer Jamal took the edge of Chanderpaul's bat for Salman Agha to take the catch at second slip.

- 'Wanted more wickets' -

Abbass, the senior man in a comparatively inexperienced Pakistan bowling attack, then trapped Amir Jangoo, leg-before the on-field decision of not out being overturned on review to the Decision Review System.

"It was a reasonably good day for us although we would have liked to have taken a couple more wickets," said Abbass in reflecting on the day's effort in which he finished with figures of two for 44 from 19 overs.

"This pitch is a bit slow. It was covered the day before the match so you have to work really hard to get something from it."

He was the only one to trouble Hodge during the final session, earning an LBW verdict against the right-hander from Dominica before it was overturned on review while another leg-before shout two overs later was close, but not close enough for the television technology to prompt a change to the on-field not out decision.

Pakistan's seam bowlers, with the notable exception of Jamal who conceded 54 runs in ten overs, kept the West Indies batsmen in check without appearing to be threatening.

Ali Usman, the debutant left-arm spinner, bowled 12 economical overs without ever appearing to present a significant danger to his opponents.

Both teams were had been forced into unexpected changes ahead of the Test.

In a surprise development, fast bowler Alzarri Joseph declined selection for the home side for personal reasons while Pakistan batsman Abdullah Fazal sustained a back injury ruling him out of this series and the subsequent campaign in England.

"Vozinha is set to become a Colo Colo player; he will arrive in Chile in the coming days, undergo the necessary medical tests and will then be presented here at the Monumental Stadium," club president Anibal Mosa told reporters ahead of a league match on Friday evening.

Vozinha starred at the World Cup with heroic displays in a 0-0 group-stage draw against eventual champions Spain and in a 3-2 extra-time loss to finalists Argentina in the knock-out rounds.

The goalie, whose full name is Josimar Jose Evora Dias, will move to Chile from Chaves of the Portuguese second division. Although he did not sign his first professional contract until he was 26, he has also played in Cyprus, Slovakia, Moldova and Angola.

"He's in very good form; that's why we're signing him," said Mosa.

Vozinha has also become a social media star, with help from Brazilian influencer Casimiro. The goalkeeper's Instagram following has soared from 50,000 to nearly 30 million.

Colo Colo, 34-time Chilean champions, hold a comfortable lead in the table midway through the current season.

He collected five points from nine games and his place was decided after a tie breaking system.

In the ninth and final round held on Friday last, IM Neer defeated Hungarian Grandmaster Horvath Adam. 

Earlier, in the eighth round, he split point with Belgian Grandmaster Glek Igor.

Netherlands' International Master Han Yichen emerged champion with 6.5 points while Serbian Grandmaster Robert Markus finished as the runner-up in the meet.

The tournament was organised in a round-robin league format, featuring players from Bangladesh, Belgium, Hungary, India, Chinese Taipei, the Netherlands, Serbia, and the United States. The event included three Grandmasters, five International Masters and two FIDE Masters.

After the fourth round, Fahad has secured two points from four matches.

Earlier, in the third round, he defeated host rival Candidate Master Nurassyl Primbetov.

The Masters event has attracted seventy seven players from fifteen countries, including twenty two Grandmasters, one Woman Grandmaster and twenty nine International Masters. 

The match kicks off at 2 pm Bangladesh time. 

Earlier, Bangladesh beat Uzbekistan by 3-2 sets in their tournament-opening match, but the boys in red and green suffered a straight 3-0 set defeat to host Pakistan in their second match.

Bangladesh, however, fought back in the third match as they beat Kazakhstan by 3-2 sets to stay on course.

The 24-year-old winger played in four matches at the World Cup, scoring in group-stage games against Japan and Sweden. He also missed a penalty in the shootout defeat to Morocco in the round of 32.

Summerville spent two seasons at West Ham after joining the club from Leeds in 2024, scoring eight goals in 56 appearances. He was unable to help the Hammers avoid relegation from the Premier League last season.

He joins an Al Hilal team coached by Simone Inzaghi and featuring former France striker Karim Benzema, ex-Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez and Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves.

Summerville follows Portuguese international Mateus Fernandes out of the door at West Ham. Fernandes moved across London earlier this month as Tottenham paid a club record fee of £85 million for the 22-year-old midfielder.

Lyles, trailing at the start, surged over the final 30 meters for a convincing victory over veteran Ronnie Baker, who edged Kenny Bednarek for second.

Both were credited with a time of 9.88, with Bednarek taking third. Former world champion Christian Coleman came in fourth in 9.93.

"In my head, the distance was already made up," Lyles told broadcaster NBC of the early gap he erased. "Coach said 'put my hand in their pocket, don't let 'em get away.'

"I saw where Christian was and I said: 'Oh yeah, my hand is all the way in there,' and I just pulled him back and I did what I do," added Lyles.

He matched the personal best he set in winning Olympic gold in Paris in 2024 and improved on the previous world leading time this year of 9.82 set by Oblique Seville at the Jamaican championships in June.

Sha'Carri Richardson, the 2023 world champion and 2024 Olympic silver medallist, clocked 10.77sec (wind 0.9m/sec) to win her third national 100m title.

The 26-year-old Texan, whose difficult 2025 campaign saw her finish off the podium in her 100m world championship defense, pulled away relentlessly from training partner Kayla White, who finished second in 10.90.

Tamari Davis was third in 11.00.

"It just feels phenomenal to be back in a better place, just healthy mentally, physically and emotionally," Richardson said. "Everything me and coach have been working on, it's starting to show consistently."

Lyles will be back in action Saturday in the 200m heats.

In a year with no World Championships or Olympic team berths on the line, some well-known names opted out of the national championships or tweaked their programs at Icahn Stadium in New York City.

Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, who swept 100m, 200m and 4x100m gold at last September's World Championships, skipped the 100m and will launch her campaign in the 200m heats on Saturday.

Quincy Hall, the 400m gold medallist at the 2024 Paris Olympics, failed to advance from the heats as his 46.47 left him in 16th place in a field led by Khaleb McRae's 44.65.

Cooper Lutkenhaus, the 17-year-old sensation who has bagged two Diamond League victories this year in his first season on the elite circuit, moved safely into the men's 800m final, winning his heat in 1:45.83.

Lutkenhaus clocked the third-fastest time of the first round, led by Wes Ferguson's 1:45.17.

Donovan Brazier, the 2019 world champion who held off Lutkenhaus to capture the national title last year, failed to advance.

In the day's match, BKSP beat Jatrabari Jhatika Sangsad by 2-1 goals with Jayed Bin Maruf and Asikul Arfin scored one goal each for the winners' in the 43rd and 83rd minutes respectively.

Robiul Hossain netted the lone goal for the lossers' in the 41st minute of the match.

In the day's another match, Dilkusha Sporting Club blanked Kollol Sangha by 2-0 goals with Tajdul Hasan and Rohan Islam scored one goal apiece for Dilkusha in the 55th and 90+2nd minutes respectively.

Earlier, Bangladesh beat Uzbekistan by 3-2 set in their tournament opening match but the boys in red and green suffered straight 3-0 set defeat to host Pakistan in their second match.

Bangladesh will play their next match against Nepal on Sunday (July 26) at the same venue.

FIDE Master Sheikh Nasir Ahmed of Bangladesh Navy finished third, Candidate Master Md. Masum Hossain of SSPL Sporting Club became fourth, FIDE Master Subrato Biswas of City Club finished fifth, FIDE Master Mohammad Javed of Bangladesh Navy became sixth and Candidate Master Md. Jamal Uddin of City Club became seventh with seven points each after their position was decided by tie-breaking systems. Sarwar Hossain Ullash finished eighth with 6.5 points, Candidate Master Mahtabuddin Ahmed of Bangladesh Navy became ninth, Candidate Master Avik Sarker of 64 Square Chess Club became tenth, Md. Abu Hanif of Sadharan Bima Corporation Sporting Club became eleventh and Tashriq Saihan Shan of Bangladesh Police Chess Club became 12th. Following the conclusion of the tournament, Lokeman Hossain Mollah Lovelu, president of Manha's Castle, distributed the prizes among the winners.

"We're very happy to be able to present Jurgen Klopp today as the new coach," German Football Association (DFB) President Bernd Neuendorf told a press conference in Frankfurt.

Neuendorf said Klopp's contract would run until "summer 2030, so until the next World Cup in Morocco, Spain and Portugal," adding that the contract would begin on August 15.

Klopp, 59, had spoken publicly of his desire to take on the role after Nagelsmann left earlier in July.

Germany crashed out of this summer's World Cup after losing to Paraguay on penalties in the round of 32.

It was the third successive World Cup failure for the Germans since winning their fourth title in 2014.

Germany failed to make it past the group stage in both 2018 and 2022. They have won just one knockout match at the past five major tournaments, reaching the quarter-finals as hosts at Euro 2024.

Klopp had successful coaching tenures at German clubs Mainz -- where he was a player for more than a decade -- and Borussia Dortmund before turning round the fortunes of English giants Liverpool.

Earlier, in the second round game, he lost to Grandmaster Savva Vetokhin of Russia.

The Masters event has attracted seventy seven  players from fifteen countries, including twenty two Grandmasters, one Woman Grandmaster, and twenty nine International Masters.

Pakiza Group has provided financial sponsorship to IM Mohammad Fahad Rahman for his participation in the tournament.

The Malian Football Federation said in a statement that officials met with Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe on Saturday in New York "with a view to a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations".

The three neighbours and allies within the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) are led by post-coup juntas and grappling with insecurity amid deadly attacks from jihadist groups which have killed thousands.

The Malian federation said the CAF meeting marks "a pivotal stage in the bidding process", enabling the three member associations to "proceed with the steps outlined in CAF regulations for the awarding of the 2032 AFCON".

The three federations will continue "the work required to prepare a robust, credible bid that embodies a new vision for African football", the statement added.

Burkina Faso hosted the AFCON in 1998 and Mali in 2002. Niger has never hosted the biennial tournament.

Mali has five CAF-approved stadiums, while Burkina Faso secured approval in 2025 for the main stadium in Ouagadougou.

Niger, meanwhile, is continuing to bring its General Seyni Kountche Stadium -- which has been barred from hosting international matches since 2022 -- up to standard.

The next AFCON will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Legal proceedings have been ongoing since April over allegations that negligence by seven medical workers contributed to the Argentine star's death in 2020.

The larger-than-life footballer died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema -- a condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs -- two weeks after undergoing surgery.

The trial was supposed to conclude in August, but almost 70 witness and defendant statements and over 25 hearings later, it remains uncertain when the legal psychodrama will end.

The defendants, who insist Maradona died of natural causes, have spent months in a courtroom alongside the footballer's distraught daughters.

As proceedings enter yet another month, AFP takes a look at the standout moments of the often dramatic case.

- Diligent defendant -

Maradona's personal doctor Leopoldo Luque -- the main accused, since he was viewed by many as being in charge at the time -- has adopted a meticulous strategy as a defendant.

He has attended every single hearing, taking the stand every time he feels a statement implicates him.

The doctor has already racked up nine interventions, during which he plays audio recordings, presents scientific papers and points out what he views as contradictions.

He once even instructed his own lawyer about how to connect a HDMI cable to show the autopsy of Maradona.

Luque's team succeeded in showing the footage, which subsequently rattled Maradona's daughter, who yelled curses at the defendant and fled the room in tears.

Her lawyer followed his client and the hearing was suspended.

Luque claims he hadn't realized she was there, but the Maradona family says they don't believe him.

- Childish lawyers -

Judges have often had to act as a different kind of referee when attendees get tangled up in heated disputes.

"It's impossible to stop them like children, all the time," said Judge Alberto Gaig following one particularly thorny debate between legal representatives.

But the rivalry between the lawyer of Maradona's daughters, Fernando Burlando, and that of the defendants, Francisco Oneto, is proving impossible to resolve.

Burlando once told his counterpart to "go back to elementary school."

The remark earned an equally childish snub from Oneto, who told his foe to "pick up a dictionary."

Their bickering even led to the suspension of one hearing, but that didn't stop the pair from hurling expletives at each other outside the courtroom in front of other lawyers, police officers and journalists.

- Eating your feelings -

Others have tried to ease tensions with edible gifts.

One chilly June morning, a defense attorney entered the courtroom hauling a huge bag that was full to the brim with "alfajores," traditional Argentine sweets.

One month earlier, another brought Paraguayan cheese rolls known as "chipas" from his wife's bakery.

The gesture proved a business-savvy move when attorneys from both legal teams followed her brand on Instagram.

- Miniature home -

To the surprise of many, a miniature model of the house where Maradona died has become a centerpiece of the trial.

University of Belgrano students built the replica of the footballer's home in the town of Tigre, north of Buenos Aires.

Measuring roughly two-by-one meters (six-by-three feet), the mock-up is heavy enough to require four people to carry it to and fro whenever a witness needs to point at different parts of the building.

- Retake -

The wacky intricacies of the proceedings are all surpassed by the oddest detail of all: the fact that the trial should have been completed last year.

The first iteration was thrown when it emerged that one of the presiding judges, Julieta Makintach, was secretly taking part in a documentary about the celebrity case.

Uruguayan veteran Suarez captained Miami with Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo de Paul missing four days after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final.

The 37-year-old Poland striker Lewandowski was making his MLS debut having signed from Barcelona after they were crowned Spanish champions.

Prolific goalscorer Lewandowski, who also starred for Bayern Munich from 2014-2022 and has more than 700 goals for club and country, started for Chicago and played 63 minutes.

But it was 20-year-old Plambeck, a product of Miami's youth system, who emerged as the unlikely hero, coming off the bench to score the 87th-minute winner.

Lewandowski had an attempt blocked in the 14th minute, but the Fire got on the board four minutes later through a calamitous own goal.

Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, starting in place of Canada World Cup keeper Dayne St. Clair, took a swing at a routine pass back from Ian Fray only to miss and see it roll into the net.

Suarez levelled from the penalty spot in the 27th minute and put Miami ahead in the 51st, firing home after being set-up by a brilliant backheel from German Berterame.

Chicago's South African Puso Dithejane made it 2-2 in the 67th minute only for Plambeck to have the final say by volleying home the rebound for his first Miami goal after goalkeeper Chris Brady had parried Suarez's close-range shot.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) did, however, acknowledge a US investigation into a third party with links to the association.

The organization issued a statement following media reports that its president Claudio Tapia and treasurer Pablo Toviggino had been detained at New York's John F. Kennedy airport before boarding the flight transporting the national squad home after their loss to Spain Sunday.

The pair were reportedly detained for questioning and had their electronic devices seized by US authorities, before being summoned to appear in court regarding AFA's international contracts.

But an AFA statement denied all of the reported claims as "absolutely false."

"All lies," a source from the association told AFP, while the FBI declined to comment.

A district court in Florida had issued a summons targeting "a third party," AFA conceded.

The individual "is being asked to appear before a grand jury and present any documents and communications that may be related to various individuals, including officials" of the federation, it said.

AFA, headed by football heavyweight Tapia since 2017, is the subject of several investigations in Argentina.

One probe is focusing on alleged money laundering, while another relates to tax evasion.

Under former trade unionist Tapia's leadership, AFA's relations with far-right President Javier Milei's administration have grown strained.

Tapia, for instance, strongly opposes the ultra-liberal leader's desire to privatize football clubs across the country.

Boston topped the Baltimore Orioles 6-3 at Fenway Park to notch their 15th straight Major League Baseball win.

That tied the club record set in 1946 by a team led by Hall of Famer Ted Williams.

The streak then ended with a 5-1 loss to the Orioles in the nightcap.

"I think everybody knew it was going to end at some point," Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said.

"Now we've got to refocus."

The Red Sox got to work quickly in the opening game, postponed from Tuesday by rain.

They took a 4-0 lead in the first inning on a two-run single by Caleb Durbin and a two-run triple by Jarren Duran.

Duran delivered a sacrifice fly for a run in the third and Ceddanne Rafaela belted his ninth home run of the season in the fourth.

Tracy said his players had "accomplished something great" in matching the 1946 team and achieving the longest MLB winning streak since the St. Louis Cardinals won 17 straight in 2021.

Baltimore jumped on Red Sox starting pitcher Eduardo Rivera early in the second game, taking a 4-0 lead in the first inning and rolling home.

It was the Red Sox's first defeat since a 10-2 home loss to Washington on July 1.

The streak marked a stunning turnaround for Boston, who were floundering at 32-46 on June 24 but are now approaching the trade deadline with a playoff berth in their sights.

"Not only did we have a run of 15 wins, we found out who we are -- and we're a good baseball team," Tracy said.

Bangladesh have already secured the series with one match to spare.

The hosts took a 1-0 lead by winning the opening match 34-24, before Nepal bounced back to level the series with a 25-20 victory in the second Test.

Bangladesh regained the lead by defeating Nepal 31-23 in the third match and then sealed the series with a commanding 34-22 win in the fourth Test.

The home side will now be looking to clinch victory in the final match and end the series with an emphatic 4-1 triumph.

Bezos, one of the world's richest men, could become part of the group led by British-Indian businessman Bhatia, the son-in-law of billionaire steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal.

Sky News reported Bezos' interest but said he is not certain to proceed with the potential plan.

The 62-year-old American is estimated by Forbes to be worth around œ192 billion ($257 billion).

Liverpool's owners Fenway Sports Group confirmed on Tuesday Bhatia's consortium had approached them to discuss buying a minority stake in the 20-time English champions.

Bezos has reportedly explored previous bids for the NFL's Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, but decided against pursuing either deal.

Bhatia's interest in the Premier League club came on the same day the 46-year-old stepped down from the board at QPR.

He ended an 18-year association with the English Championship team by transferring his stake to majority owner Ruben Gnanalingam.

In 2023, FSG sold a minority stake in Liverpool to investment firm Dynasty and any deal with Bhatia, should it proceed, is expected to be along similar lines.

According to the Financial Times, a deal with the consortium led by Bhatia would value Liverpool at more than $6 billion.

FSG, which also owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, bought Liverpool in 2010 for œ300 million.

In the fourth-round game held on Tuesday, IM Neer drew with Hungarian International Master Bence Pribelszky. 

Earlier, in the third round, he also shared a point with United States International Master Sethuraman Sandeep.

With this victory, Tahsin has collected 4.5 points from seven games. 

The national squad captain landed at Rosario airport on a private jet at around 6:30 am (0930 GMT) along with his wife and three children, a local government source told AFP on condition of anonymity.

A video published by sports outlet ESPN showed a gray SUV carrying Messi entering a gated community in the city of Funes.

The house he owns in this suburban area is where he usually stays during visits to his native Rosario in central Argentina.

Most national squad players and their coach Lionel Scaloni arrived in Buenos Aires on Monday night, where thousands of fans enveloped them in cheers, chants, flags and tears.

Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain 1-0, with soccer idol Messi breaking down in tears after Sunday's defeat.

The 39-year-old star scored eight goals during this year's tournament.

They are Syed Mahfuzur Rahman, Candidate Master S.M. Smoron, Muhtadi Tajwar Nashid, and Sarwar Hossain Ullash.

Twelve players jointly shared second place with four points. 

They are FIDE Master Subrata Biswas, International Master Md. Minhaj Uddin, FIDE Master Mohammad Javed, FIDE Master Sheikh Nasir Ahmed, Siam Chowdhury, Candidate Master Md. Abu Hanif, FIDE Master Md. Sharif Hossain, Tashrik Saihan Shan, Oitijjya Barua, Candidate Master Md. Jamal Uddin, Candidate Master Md. Masum Hossain, and Candidate Master Mahtab Uddin Ahmed.

In the fifth round matches, FIDE Master Mahfuz Niloy split point with Candidate Master Smoron, Ullash split point with International Master Minhaj, Oitijjya split point with FIDE Master Nasir, and Siam split point with Candidate Master Masum, Nashid defeated Woman FIDE Master Noshin Anjum, FIDE Master Subrata defeated Abhijit Ghosh, FIDE Master Javed defeated Faisal Hossain, Candidate Master Hanif defeated Jinnat Akter Shahnaz, FIDE Master Sharif defeated Abdul Momin, Candidate Master Jamal defeated Prince Carol Chowdhury, Anisuzzaman Mallik drew with International Master Abu Sufian Shakil, Woman FIDE Master Nazrana Khan Eva split point with Candidate Master Sohel Chowdhury, Tahmidul Haque split point with Orham Omar, and Niloy Debnath split point with Woman International Master Wadifa Ahmed.

The players enjoyed drinks on their procession under a blazing sun, along the main arteries in the city centre where a sea of fans in red and yellow were waiting, before arriving at Cibeles square where they took to the stage and partied into the night.

The squad and coach Luis de la Fuente were introduced one by one to the fans, each with their own choice of music that they sung along to, wearing "We are champions" shirts.

"(Spain) showed the world what it is to work together, with one mind and one heart," said pop superstar Shakira in a video message played to the team and crowd.

De la Fuente offered a similar message, hailing his players as the "best in the world" and telling fans not to forget that "together we are stronger".

The players and staff posed for a photo before Rodri raised the trophy again, just as he had done on Sunday night after Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra-time in New Jersey to be crowned champions.

After flying back from the United States to Madrid, the players were received by King Felipe VI and the royal family earlier Monday, and then Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, before kicking off the parade.

Players passed around the gleaming World Cup trophy and waved to their adoring supporters, some lining balconies, others on top of bus stops.

Ferran Torres's strike in extra-time was enough to bring Spain their second World Cup, following a first victory in 2010.

"You have shown your grit, your resilience and your courage... combining head and heart," the king told La Roja's stars, who were dressed in suits but changed to more casual clothing for their parade on a hot summer's day.

"Kings of the world" ran the words on the front of their vehicle, with fans chanting "champions" to their heroes.

Rodri held the World Cup trophy aloft at the top of the stairs as he descended from the Iberia plane that flew the team home after clinching their second star.

The Manchester City midfielder said this was the crowning achievement of his career.

"I've always said it, winning with your country is the most beautiful thing there is, above all a World Cup," said Rodri.

"This generation grew up watching (Iker) Casillas and (Andres) Iniesta lift the cup and that we can do it today is the biggest thing you can do in football."

Many younger supporters were not yet born when Iniesta's extra-time goal against the Netherlands secured Spain's first World Cup in South Africa 16 years ago.

"I'm really happy about the second star" Spain has earned, "very joyful," said Hector Mollar, a 14-year-old student, who said he was able to see Torres, teen star Lamine Yamal and Arsenal's Mikel Merino as the bus parade passed him.

It is "very different" to live a day like today than to have someone tell you about it, Hector added.

Match-winner Torres joked he was "flying, literally" after the team returned from the United States after beating Argentina in New Jersey.

- Cibeles party -

Spain's World Cup winners bus parade started at the Prime Minister's residence Moncloa before heading towards Cibeles square, a traditional celebration point for the team, where hordes of fans had reserved their spots hours in advance.

Players lifted coach De la Fuente into the air towards the end of a night of pure joy for La Roja.

Spain's women's side also won the World Cup in 2023, meaning for the first time a country has both trophies at the same time.

In 2030, Spain's men's side will defend their crown on home soil, as one of the World Cup hosts along with Portugal and Morocco.

"It's two for two," said Prime Minister Sanchez, of Spain's record in World Cup finals. "Why not dream of a third in 2030, especially with Spain as hosts?"

Argentina, despite the presence of all-time great Lionel Messi, failed to create clear chances against Spain's well-organised and more positive side in Sunday's final.

Messi had a sensational World Cup but drifted through the final like a ghost, shedding tears at the end.

"The pain is immense, and it's going to be hard for this wound to heal," wrote Messi on Instagram, going on to congratulate La Roja.

In Madrid, tears also flowed on Monday night, but they were tears of joy.

It is the longest win streak in Major League Baseball this season and leaves the Red Sox one victory shy of matching their club record of 15 set in 1946.

Third baseman Durbin blasted a pitch from Orioles reliever Tyler Wells into the seats atop Fenway Park's "Green Monster" left-field wall with two outs in the eighth inning. It was his 10th homer of the season.

Boston closing relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman, a 38-year-old Cuban left-hander, walked Colton Cowser and surrendered a two-out double to Gunnar Henderson that put two Orioles runners in scoring position in the ninth.

Baltimore's Tyler O'Neill then smacked a line drive that was caught by Taiwanese shortstop Cheng Tsung-che of the Red Sox for the final out to secure the triumph.

The visiting Orioles were undone by four errors, their most in a game since 2023.

The Red Sox, founded in 1901, can set a club record by sweeping the three-game series with Baltimore, which saw a seven-game win streak snapped.

Boston improved to 51-48, clinging to the final American League wildcard playoff spot with two months remaining in the campaign with Baltimore three games back at 49-52.

It was not the homecoming Argentines had hoped for, four years after millions celebrated their team's tournament victory in 2022, but fresh scenes of joyful chaos filled the street as they danced, sang and set off fireworks to thank the players.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) said earlier that some squad members would not be on the flight, and iconic team captain Messi was not seen descending from the aircraft in images broadcast on local television.

Coach Lionel Scaloni and the rest of the team were welcomed with a red carpet outside the aircraft and a military band.

They then boarded a bus, waving to frenzied fans along the way.

Despite falling short of a second straight championship, "Argentines will celebrate anyway," said housewife Marga Ledezma. The 36-year-old thanked Messi for "all the years he made us happy," urging him not to quit playing for Argentina, but admitting this would be difficult as he was 39.

Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in a game that has been criticized in international media for a plethora of fouls and displays of poor sportsmanship from the Albiceleste.

"I think they criticize us because we know what it's like to suffer, that we get up, we fall down again, and we keep going," said Ledezma.

Many fans highlighted that the real victory for Argentina was the 2-1 semi-final win over England, played against the backdrop of a lingering dispute between the countries over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands.

Some carried flags declaring "The Falklands are Argentine." FIFA is investigating the Argentine team after players held up a banner bearing the phrase after their win against England which sparked a backlash from London.

- 'The pain is immense' -

"This team united us all, and we should be grateful for that. We will always be there for them, rain or shine. I would say thank you to Messi and that he gave it his all," said Leonardo Barrientos, 36, who works in a textile workshop.

Maria Ortiz, 28, came to welcome the team with her two-year-old, and said Spain "deserved the win" but she was "happy for what the team gave us."

Messi wrote on Instagram on Monday that "the pain is immense and it's going to take a long time for this wound to heal."

"I'll also hold on to all the good memories," he wrote alongside a photo of himself. "Today it's hard to appreciate what we achieved, but this squad reached two consecutive World Cup finals."

With the tournament over, President Javier Milei announced that a future date agreed with the team would be set as a public holiday to celebrate their performance in the World Cup. No further details have been announced.

While crestfallen after the loss, thousands of Argentines headed to the traditional celebration point at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires where they partied for hours on Sunday evening.

Late at night, brief clashes broke out at the monument and police used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse revellers. Fifteen people were detained, according to police sources.

"I feel especially proud of this generation of footballers who have grown with this idea... giving us an example of a group, of a family," he said.

"They are players with exceptional talent. For me, it has been an honour to have accompanied them on this journey. "

De la Fuente, who also coached them to the Euro 2024 crown, added: "I'm very emotional, looking back. We have won everything, and that is wonderful.

"They are a generation of footballers who are a source of pride for Spain. Together, we are stronger."

The 65-year-old coach said he believed Spain should have won the game earlier than the 106th minute goal by Ferran Torres that settled a tense final, but he praised Argentina 'keeper Emi Martinez for an inspired performance.

Argentina had Enzo Fernandez sent off for a second yellow card in the 93rd minute before the game went into extra time.

"I think the game should have been decided earlier. Dibu's great saves prevented us from winning sooner, but it is a World Cup final and, even with ten players at the end, you have to suffer," de la Fuente said.

The Spanish added the world crown to their European one they won in 2024 when they beat 10-man Argentina 1-0 after extra-time.

The squad is due to land at Madrid airport at 12:50 pm local time (1050 GMT).

The players will then travel from near the Moncloa Palace, the official residence of Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, to Cibeles Square, the central government's representative in Madrid, Francisco Martin, told Spanish public television.

A ceremony involving the players will then be held at the square, the traditional gathering point for celebrations by the Spanish national team and its supporters.

Around one million people are expected to line the parade route, with additional security and transport measures planned to handle the crowds, Martin said.

A total of 2,050 police officers and 400 Civil Guard personnel will be deployed, he added.

Madrid was already preparing for a night of festivities after the final, with thousands of supporters who gathered in bars and three fan zones pouring out into the streets in celebration.

Spain's last World Cup victory came in 2010, when hundreds of thousands of supporters welcomed the team home in Madrid after their win in South Africa.

Messi, now 39, dragged the holders to another final, scoring eight goals and also providing two assists in the dramatic late comeback against England in the semi-finals.

But the dream of lifting the trophy again, four years after he inspired Argentina to victory in Qatar, ultimately proved too good to be true.

Ten-man Argentina did not lay a glove on Spain at the MetLife Stadium, and were lucky to survive until the 106th minute, when Ferran Torres finally broke the deadlock.

The blunt South Americans struggled throughout the match and faced a huge challenge when Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time.

The final passed Messi by, and as he broke down in tears it was easy to think that he might have been much better off bowing out on that glorious night in Doha in 2022.

That victory allowed him to emulate Diego Maradona, who dragged Argentina to glory in 1986. But this time he emulated his legendary predecessor in a different way.

Maradona's Argentina returned to the final as holders in 1990, only to deliver a dreadful, cynical display in losing 1-0 to West Germany, a game they finished with nine men.

They fouled their way through this game too, appearing to have no tactic other than to try to get under Spain's skin.

Messi touched the ball only 54 times, with almost half of those coming in extra-time, and never looked like scoring the goal that would allow him to equal Kylian Mbappe's overall World Cup record tally of 22.

- Equalling Cafu -

It was hard not to come to the conclusion that he ended up hindering his side once they were down to 10 men -- he was left as their lone forward, when in any other circumstances coach Lionel Scaloni would surely have sent on the fresh legs of Lautaro Martinez in attack.

Argentina failed to become the first team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962, but this was still a momentous day for Messi.

He became only the second player to appear in three World Cup finals, matching the achievement of Brazil great Cafu.

Pele won three World Cups, but did not play in the 1962 final due to injury. Maradona played in two finals.

If Messi does still have any doubters, they may point to the fact that he has now lost two of his finals, with this defeat following the loss to Germany in 2014.

Sunday's final took place back at the same stadium where he sensationally announced his retirement from international football aged 29 in 2016.

He had won more than 100 caps by then, and was already regarded as one of the greatest players of all time thanks to his achievements with Barcelona.

- A game too far -

But with Argentina he had already lost three major finals, including the 2014 World Cup final, when he came to the MetLife Stadium for the Copa America Centenario decider against Chile in 2016.

The game ended 0-0, before Messi missed his penalty in the shootout as Argentina lost again. "For me the national team is over," he said then.

He went on to enjoy an incredible late career revival with his country, winning the Copa America back-to-back in 2021 and 2024, either side of the 2022 World Cup.

The 2026 tournament in North America felt at first like a victory lap for Messi, as he scored a hat-trick in the opening game against Algeria and the goals kept flowing.

He now has more than 200 caps, and has played a record 34 World Cup games across a joint-record six tournaments.

Surely this will bring the curtain down on his World Cup career, given he will be into his 40s in 2030.

There may, however, be calls for him to keep playing for his country a little longer, especially as he has a contract with Inter Miami until 2028.

It has been a glorious career, but Sunday's final was a game too far for Messi and Argentina.

Barcelona striker Torres lashed home a thumping finish in the 106th minute to reward a dominant display by Spain against an Argentina team who failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes.

A star-studded crowd of 80,663 that included US President Donald Trump packed East Rutherford's MetLife Stadium to see if Argentina captain Messi could crown his glittering career with a second World Cup victory.

But the 39-year-old maestro -- almost certainly playing in his final World Cup game -- was reduced to irrelevance as Spain took control early on against an Argentina team who committed cynical fouls throughout.

The South Americans' skulduggery ended with midfielder Enzo Fernandez being sent off after a brutal challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi in stoppage time.

For long periods though it looked as if Argentina may somehow hold on for a penalty shoot-out as Spain struggled to make the breakthrough.

But after Nico Williams had a goal controversially disallowed in extra-time, Spain struck.

A lofted cross to the back post by Pedro Porro found Williams who nodded into the path of Torres to crash home the goal that clinched Spain's second World Cup title after their maiden 2010 triumph.

"Ultimately, the goal belongs to 47 million people -- not just me or the 26 players," goal hero Torres said, referring to Spain's approximate population.

"At the end of the day, all finals are tough; when you're up against Messi, there's a certain nervousness, but we always believed in our football and in ourselves."

There were ugly scenes after the final whistle as Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes triggered a melee by grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia around the throat in a skirmish that saw Spanish substitute Gavi thrown to the floor.

Messi meanwhile was seen with tears streaming down his face after receiving his runners-up medal in a ceremony headed by Trump -- who was subjected to deafening boos and catcalls as he walked onto the pitch alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Trump and Infantino later presented the World Cup trophy to Spain captain Rodri, the midfield general who had orchestrated La Roja's superb win.

"We have won everything, and that is wonderful," Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said of his team. "They are a generation of footballers who are a source of pride for Spain."

- Cynical gameplan -

Before Sunday's final, many pundits had predicted a technically inferior Argentina would seek to disrupt Spain's smooth game with cynicism.

There was an early sign of the South Americans' cynical gameplan early on when Alexis Mac Allister went flying in with a studs-up challenge that struck Dani Olmo's ankle.

Mac Allister escaped an early yellow card although after Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic only awarded a foul.

Spain made their presence felt moments later though, with Alex Baena poleaxing Messi with an elbow to the back that again escaped sanction.

Argentina continued to test referee Vincic's patience with a series of niggly challenges, and Nicolas Tagliafico was lucky not to be cautioned after raking Lamine Yamal's calf in a clumsy challenge.

Eventually though Vincic did reach for a yellow card, with Lisandro Martinez booked for a cynical challenge on Mikel Oyarzabal.

The final's controversial half-time show featuring Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber stretched to 27 minutes but did little to upset Spain's rhythm.

The Spanish piled on the pressure in a lopsided second half as Argentina hung on grimly.

De la Fuente sent on Pedri and Ferran Torres for Fabian Ruiz and Oyarzabal and the chances continued with Argentina in full siege mode.

Pedri and Cubarsi both lashed long-range shots that Emi Martinez failed to grasp at the first attempt but somehow Argentina continued to hold on.

The arrival of substitutes Williams and Mikel Merino gave fresh life to Spain's attacking momentum, and the onslaught continued.

Fernandez's reckless red card left Argentina down to 10 men heading into extra-time.

Martinez had one last save deep in stoppage time when Yamal's superb whipped free-kick was clawed wide.

The Spanish dominance continued in extra-time, with Williams almost opening the scoring with a glancing header that Martinez got down well to save one-handed.

Moments later it looked as if Spain had made the breakthrough when Williams slid a low finish into the net but referee Vincic blew for a marginal foul on Nicolas Otamendi.

But the breakthrough came with Torres's winner.

Argentina made a desperate last raid on Spain's goal but La Roja held firm to seal victory.

Argentine dentist Florencia Luzinin, 30, said "we came across a few Spaniards but I don't look at them." She was among thousands of blue and white-striped Argentina fans who flocked to the tourist hubs of Manhattan ahead of the final being held over the Hudson River in New Jersey.

Local enthusiasm for the tournament had fallen away after co-hosts the United States were knocked out by Belgium on July 6, but tickets for the final still became the costliest in US sporting history. Extreme weather in the days before the final including ferocious storms, plus flooding and smoke from Canadian forest fires distracted many in the Big Apple. Nonetheless, Argentine fans turned out in force, with many gathering in the city's Times Square.

Penn Station was a sea of Argentine jerseys, most emblazoned with Lionel Messi's name -- and two dogs were dressed up in the iconic blue and white strip. Spain fans swarmed around Madison Square Garden with one clutching a replica trophy. Spain supporter Alessandra Pichler, 27, said "the US has done a great job hosting all the games I've been to. I've been very impressed."

Excitement for the global soccer spectacle has progressively waned as countries with large diasporas in the city -- like Mexico and Egypt -- have been ejected. "It's been slightly overshadowed. I think there was fatigue after all the games of the group stage and then the US getting eliminated. Spain and Argentina are also relatively small immigrant populations" in the city, said Howie Ray, 42, who cheered for England after the US ejection.

"You also have the regular folks leave for the weekend during the summer."

- 'Unaffordable' -

Fans were also turned off by sky-high prices for the final, as the average ticket price hit $11,327, according to TickPick.

"A lot of my friends have felt disconnected the entire tournament due to the tickets being unaffordable," added Ray.

Fans in New York unable to secure -- or afford -- a ticket to the final flocked to quirky watch parties.

Global Citizen staged an all-star show in Central Park coinciding with the fixture.

The American Museum of Natural History gave fans the chance to rub shoulders with dinosaurs while watching Messi, 39, fail to steer Argentina to its fourth World Cup.

Despite some tepid reactions on the streets away from Midtown Manhattan, something of a World Cup effect has been witnessed at non-World Cup matches.

Women's team Gotham FC this week recorded the biggest turnout for a women's sporting event in New York history, city comptroller Mark Levine said.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani made headlines when he watched England succumb to Argentina with inmates at the city's notorious Rikers Island jail.

"We said from the beginning that the World Cup belongs to New Yorkers. This summer, we proved it," Mamdani said ahead of the final.

The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or for the world's best player in 2024, said the team were "a bit shocked right now".

Rodri ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament while playing for City against Arsenal in September 2024, making his competitive return the following May.

"Even myself I cannot express with words," he said. "I think now we're like in a cloud.

"It's been a very tough time. I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity -- when you go down you can rise again.

"This is my philosophy my entire life. Of course, sometimes things go well, things they go wrong.

"But always the positivity I said to the lads before the game -- we have to go for the game.

"We need to face them. We have to look to the eyes and see it. We won this game and then life gives you the World Cup or not.

"But we were brave and I was brave in that moment."

New Zealand made it three-from-three in the Nations Championship with Saturday's 40-21 win over Ireland in Auckland, delivering a performance Rennie said was an improvement on the wins over France and Italy.

It provided further evidence that the All Blacks are playing with greater cohesion and assurance than during the two years under predecessor Scott Robertson.

Robertson oversaw a commendable 20 wins from 27 Tests but was sacked by New Zealand Rugby bosses this year, primarily because they lacked confidence the national side was on track to reclaim their previous status as the world's best.

In all three matches under Rennie, the All Blacks haven't shirked from a high-speed, largely ball-in-hand approach.

More size was added to the pack against Ireland, introducing a physicality which Rennie said would be valuable against the world champion Springboks.

"We've put a lot of detail into our game, the boys have really embraced it," Rennie said after the Auckland Test.

"I'm really excited, I think we're in a good spot.

"It's a different beast, South Africa. We'll go over there and give it our best shot.

"The exciting thing, I reckon, is we'll come out of Africa regardless of the results in a much better place."

- 'No illusions'-

Wing Will Jordan has benefited from the Rennie's approach, scoring six tries in three matches to become New Zealand's all-time leading Test try-scorer.

He said scoring 40 points against heavyweight opponents Ireland underscored the threat of their attack.

"I felt like it was certainly the most complete performance, I felt like we'd had good patches in the other two games.

"Mind you, there's no illusions about what's coming (South Africa). It's going to be great."

The "Greatest Rivalry" tour begins against provincial opponents the Stormers in Cape Town on August 7 and leaves South Africa for the fourth and final Test, on September 12 in Baltimore, United States.

Seasoned fullback Damian McKenzie said Rennie had stamped his mark as an ambitious coach but also an astute selector.

McKenzie praised the introduction of rising Wellington Hurricanes playmaker Ruben Love at fly-half for all three July Tests, leaving no place for decorated number 10 Beauden Barrett.

"The way Ruben's playing, you'd think he's played close to 50 tests," said McKenzie, who was New Zealand's first-choice fly-half under Robertson.

"He's obviously had an extremely good season with the 'Canes and now he's just brought that confidence into the Test arena.

"He's leading us around the park."

Instead, the biggest, most complex edition of football's showpiece ever staged will be remembered for simpler reasons: thrilling football and a feel-good factor that swept across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

With only Sunday's final between defending champions Argentina and Spain remaining, world governing body FIFA can already claim the tournament as a triumph.

Pre-tournament fears that the expansion to 48 teams -- among them a clutch of tiny debutants -- would lead to a dilution of quality proved unfounded.

Instead the World Cup delivered its usual intoxicating cocktail of drama and footballing brilliance that swept away any lingering anxiety.

The Atlantic archipelago of Cape Verde held eventual finalists Spain to a shock goalless draw in their opening game, and would go on to rattle Lionel Messi's Argentina in the last 32 before losing 3-2 in extra-time.

Curacao, population 185,000, would earn a 0-0 draw with Ecuador.

Egypt reached the knockout rounds for the first time and came within a whisker of a stunning upset of Argentina, leading 2-0 with 11 minutes to go before eventually succumbing to Messi's magic.

The Egyptians and Cape Verde were among a record nine African teams who reached the knockout rounds, signalling the continent's continuing rise.

- Stars shine brightest -

At the other end of the football spectrum, the biggest stars all joined the party.

Messi, playing in his record sixth World Cup, announced his entrance with a dazzling hat-trick to open Argentina's campaign against Algeria.

With Sunday's final still to play, Messi is on eight goals, two behind tournament top-scorer Kylian Mbappe, the France captain, on 10.

Mbappe's tally leaves him on top of the all-time World Cup scoring charts with 22.

Norway's towering striker Erling Haaland rapidly emerged as a fan favourite, scoring seven goals including two in an upset of mighty Brazil in the last 16.

England's Jude Bellingham plundered seven goals while Harry Kane added six as the Three Lions finished in third place.

The three host nations -- Canada, Mexico and the United States -- all reached the last 16 before bowing out.

With 307 goals scored through 103 matches at an average of 2.98 goals per game, the 2026 tournament is the highest-scoring World Cup since the 1958 finals in Sweden, which averaged 3.6 goals per game.

- Packed houses -

The spellbinding drama played out before mostly packed houses -- albeit with a hefty price tag.

FIFA's decision to use "dynamic pricing" to determine ticket prices had been slammed by supporters' groups as a "monumental betrayal" before the tournament kicked off.

Yet when push came to shove, it did not deter fans from shelling out thousands of dollars for a piece of the action.

According to FIFA figures released before Saturday's third-place playoff won by England, the tournament attracted 6,665,825 spectators -- more than the combined total of the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Average attendance stands at 65,351 per match, with a stadium occupancy rate of 99.7%.

The revelry stretched far beyond the stadiums.

From Scotland's Tartan Army drinking bars dry in Boston to Norway's fans performing their signature 'Viking row' en masse in Times Square, host cities were transformed into raucous, freewheeling carnival grounds.

In the United States, where the bulk of the tournament's 104 matches took place, overseas visitors took to social media to express their delight at aspects of Americana, whether it be cavernous supermarkets, oversized BBQ ribs or ranch dressing.

"The 2026 World Cup has become a global love fest for the US -- at a time when the rest of the world has plenty of reasons to dislike us," one baffled US commentator remarked.

- Trump controversy -

But while the exceptional quality of the football and the enthusiastic embrace of fans were the main takeaways, controversies did cast a shadow over parts of the tournament.

Somali referee Omar Artan became arguably the highest-profile casualty of President Donald Trump's hardline immigration crackdown, when he was denied entry to the United States.

US officials cited "vetting concerns" for the refusal to allow the official into the country.

Iran's squad were also made to suffer because of US government policies.

After relocating their base camp from Arizona to Mexico, Iranian players and team officials were angered by visa restrictions which left them scrambling to exit the US within hours of their games ending.

"I think we are the most oppressed team in the World Cup," Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei remarked bitterly after his team's opening game.

The most astonishing controversy though would involve hosts the United States, when it emerged that Trump had intervened personally with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino in order to have a one-game suspension against US striker Folarin Balogun delayed ahead of their knockout round clash with Belgium.

The extraordinary saga turned many neutrals against the hosts, and there was widespread jubilation when Belgium went on to record a thumping 4-1 victory.

While the scandal came as an embarrassment to FIFA chief Infantino, it is unlikely to jeopardise his chances of winning another term.

The powerful Asian, African and South American regional confederations have already pledged support for his re-election in 2027.

And Infantino is expected to use the success of the tournament as a mandate for further expansion, with the possibility of the 2030 finals becoming a 64-team tournament up for discussion.

Trump is expected to present the trophy alongside FIFA boss and close friend Gianni Infantino to the winner of the game between Spain and Argentina.

The match in New Jersey will be the first World Cup fixture that Trump has attended, in an unusual move for an 80-year-old leader who normally loves to be in the spotlight.

But it is far from his first intervention in the tournament.

Less than two weeks ago, Trump infamously phoned Infantino to ask FIFA to suspend a red card against USA striker Folarin Balogun so he could play in a last-16 match against Belgium.

Despite the ensuing controversy over fairness and influence, Trump has hailed the 2026 tournament as the best ever.

"This has been the most successful sporting event maybe in the history of the world. It's been amazing," Trump told a FIFA reception with Infantino at Trump Tower in New York on Friday.

Trump said the tournament had also helped further popularize a sport in the United States, where NFL, baseball and basketball still rule supreme.

"It turned out we were a soccer country, and I think it's going to remain," added Trump, who said his son Barron, 20, was a huge fan of the game.

First Lady Melania Trump, who is Barron's mother, and Melania's father Viktor Knavs are both due to attend with the US president.

- Football diplomacy -

The final could also be a chance for some much-needed diplomacy.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Spain's royal family will all attend -- despite Trump recently lashing out at Madrid for failing to help with the Iran war and falling shot on NATO spending.

The leaders of the tournament's co-hosts, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, will also be there amid ongoing tensions with the mercurial US president.

Trump threatened Canada with tariffs on Friday after smoke from raging wildfires drifted over the northeastern United States and raised concerns about air quality for the World Cup final.

Mexico's ties with Washington meanwhile remain tense over Trump's large-scale immigration crackdown and threats of military action against drug traffickers.

The last time the US, Canadian and Mexican leaders all met was at the World Cup draw in Washington in December.

Trump's appearance will also be surrounded by heavy security, with a no-fly zone in force around the stadium as he flies in from his New Jersey golf club.

- Infantino ties -

While the focus will be on the football, Trump will be competing for center stage.

Trump has hitched his political brand to the World Cup since returning in January 2025 to the Oval Office, where he has hosted Infantino on multiple occasions.

He repeatedly boasted about how he won the United States the right to hold the World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during his first term, before he lost the 2020 election to Joe Biden in a result he still refuses to accept.

"I was supposed to not be here now, I was president for eight years... they rigged the election and what did I get? I got the World Cup, the Olympics," Trump said on Friday.

Trump on Friday also jokingly talked about how he wanted the United States to host a future World Cup with China, just a day after accusing Beijing of meddling in the 2020 election.

"This time we'll leave Mexico and Canada out," he said.

Trump, who played soccer as a youth, even criticized England's tactics in the World Cup semi-final they lost to Argentina and coach Thomas Tuchel's decision to adopt defensive tactics after taking the lead.

All eyes will also be on what Trump does on the field.

At the FIFA Club World Cup championship at the same New Jersey stadium last year, winners Chelsea were left "a bit confused" after Trump stayed on the podium while they danced after he handed them the trophy.

Trump then later claimed he had been allowed to keep the trophy itself in the Oval Office -- but FIFA said the version on display was actually a replica.

They head home after a gruelling tour in which they leaked 131 points across three Tests, with their defence repeatedly sliced open.

After crashing 27-10 in Tokyo to Japan, they were humbled 47-17 by the All Blacks at Wellington then thrashed 57-10 by Australia in Perth.

They have now lost six of their last seven games, with the only success against England during the Six Nations.

"We had a lot of problems defensively, and in various areas of the pitch we also took too long to find solutions," Lamaro said of the Australia rout.

"Every time they got inside the 22, it became incredibly difficult to defend.

"We can consider various factors, but the only answers we can find are within ourselves.

"Unfortunately, we don't have the ability to be competitive. It only takes one time for us to fall slightly short of our standards, especially in terms of physicality, and we pay for that."

Against Australia, Italy made just one clean break while missing 43 tackles and conceding 12 penalties.

They were under-strength with experienced lock Niccolo Cannone serving a suspension and fullback Tommaso Allan (foot) and No.8 Lorenzo Cannone (back) returned home early.

Superstar duo Ange Capuozzo and Giacomo Nicotera did not make the trip after long seasons with their respective club sides in France.

Lamaro said there had been some positive signs at the Six Nations and he was confident Italy would come good again.

"After being in this group for a few years, I've realised that it's not that difficult for us to bounce back after negative periods," he said. "Pride always helps us come up with a response."

The Frenchman, who has scored his goals over three World Cups, is now one ahead of Argentina's Lionel Messi, who will play in Sunday's final against Spain.

France made multiple changes from the line-up they used for the semi-final defeat to Spain -- and the new defence was in disarray as Declan Rice kicked off the scoring with a long-range effort before defender Ezri Konsa nodded in. Saka notched two more goals to put England 4-0 ahead at half-time. An angry Deschamps described the first-half performance as "catastrophic" and bolstered his line-up at the break with a clutch of first-choice players.

Within three minutes of the restart, Mbappe scored his ninth goal of the tournament and Bradley Barcola notched another. Mbappe, 27, then scored the goal that took him past Messi to become the top scorer in the history of the World Cup, with 22 goals over three tournaments. Messi will have a chance to reclaim the record in the final. Saka rounded off his hat-trick with a penalty but when Ousmane Dembele scored in the sixth minute of added time, it gave France hope of an improbable draw.

Up stepped Jude Bellingham to cap a superb tournament and became the first England player to score seven goals at a World Cup when he dribbled around the French defence to score his side's sixth. "I would have preferred not to be the all-time top scorer and to be playing tomorrow's match," said Mbappe.

- Smoggy -

As the two finalists fine-tuned preparations, a persistent, choking smog blanketed the eastern United States.

Wildfires burning in Canada have sent heavy, acrid smoke billowing across the border, with residents in New York, Washington and the US Midwest urged to stay indoors due to poor air quality.

At one point on Saturday, the smoke made New York City the most polluted city in the world.

The MetLife Stadium is in New Jersey, just across the river from New York, where the city skyline early Saturday was obscured by dense smoke.

Some respite came from a storm that brought torrential rain on Saturday, and Sunday is expected to be sunny.

US President Donald Trump will be in the 80,000-crowd at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford -- the first game he has attended at the tournament.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will also attend, meaning the leaders of all three host nations will be at the match.

Trump on Friday hailed the World Cup as "the most successful sporting event, maybe in the history of the world" as he held a reception in New York with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

Infantino also reached for hyperbole, saying the event had "exceeded all expectations".

"This has not just been and is not just the greatest World Cup of all times," Infantino said. "It is the greatest human, social, and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed."

Argentina are striving to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, while Spain are trying to win a second title after their maiden victory in 2010.

- Messi farewell? -

Sunday's showpiece is likely to be the final World Cup curtain call for Messi, widely considered the greatest player of all time.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni urged fans to make the most of seeing Messi lead out his team at the age of 39.

"He has made history. He is a legend," Scaloni said of the former Barcelona player, who helped Argentina to win the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.

The battle-hardened three-time champions have shown an astonishing never-say-die attitude during the 2026 tournament, including in the dramatic late comeback against England in the semi-finals.

Spain, on the other hand, have been almost flawless, conceding just a single goal in their seven matches so far and sweeping past France in the semi-finals.

Tonni Khatun of Bangladesh was named the player of the match for her impressive performance.

Bangladesh will now play the final match against the same opponents, scheduled to be held today (Saturday) night at 10.15 pm Bangladesh time.

Earlier, the girls in red and green made an impressive start by thrashing Hong Kong China 6-0 in their opening match before edging Uzbekistan 1-0 in their second outing.

Bangladesh thrashed Pakistan by 8-0 goals in their third match to maintain their domination in the tournament. The Women's Junior AHF Cup is being contested by Bangladesh, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Hong Kong China in a round-robin league format.

The team finishing at the top of the points table at the end of the tournament will be crowned champions.

Neer secured the title with 5.5 points from nine games. However, he narrowly missed earning a Grandmaster norm, which required seven points from nine games in the tournament.

In the ninth and final round, Neer defeated FIDE Master S. Dhananjay of India to seal the championship.

Earlier, in the eighth round, he shared the points with International Master Adelard Bai of Chinese Taipei.

The round-robin tournament featured 10 players from Bangladesh, Belgium, Hungary, India, the Netherlands, Serbia and Chinese Taipei, including three Grandmasters, five International Masters and two FIDE Masters.

"He has made history. He is a legend," Scaloni said of the former Barcelona player, who has already helped Argentina win a World Cup and back-to-back Copa America titles in the last five years.

Messi's international career has enjoyed a remarkable late renaissance -- a decade ago he briefly retired from the Argentina team at the age of 29 after a Copa America final loss to Chile, his fourth defeat in a final for his country.

Messi and Scaloni hugged on the pitch at full-time after Wednesday's 2-1 semi-final win over England, with the Argentine captain calling that victory "pure history".

"It fills me with pride because he is the best player in the history of football," Scaloni said of Messi, who has scored eight goals at this World Cup, which is his sixth, and is the tournament's all-time top scorer with 21.

"To have been able to get to a final in the way that he has in this moment, at the age of 39, I think it is incredible.

"That is why I said we should enjoy having him, because look at what happened with Diego (Maradona) and how we ended up missing him.

"We still have Leo and we should appreciate that. He is the historic figure and the legend, as are all these players who have given us these marvellous years."

Argentina had gone 28 years without winning a major international title before lifting the Copa America in 2021 to spark this current golden era.

"They have done things that a few years ago were unthinkable. It was not easy to get here and to compete at this level over so many years," he said ahead of Sunday's final at the MetLife Stadium just outside New York City.

"We might win and I hope we do but in any case the journey to get this far has been incredible."

Scaloni said he could not answer whether the game would definitely be Messi's last at a World Cup, but it seems highly unlikely he will continue until the next one in 2030.

Argentina will have to beat the reigning European champions if they are to become the first nation in 64 years to win back-to-back World Cups.

"They are a great team. Everything worries me about them," Scaloni said.

De la Fuente told reporters at a press conference on Friday that he knows from experience the challenges of using man-to-man marking against the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner.

The Spain coach recalled an experience from when he was coaching Sevilla's youth team while Messi was playing junior football for Barcelona, underlining how it was impossible to keep him quiet for the whole match.

"I first encountered him when I was coaching the Sevilla youth team," he said. "We went to Barcelona, and I had heard great things about a kid named Messi.

"So we assigned a player to mark him man-to-man, but in the 70th minute, I substituted the marker because he was on a yellow card. The score was 0-0, and in the span of 15 minutes, Messi scored four goals against us."

"So we won't use man-to-man marking this time. We have to stay alert and pay special attention, certainly," de la Fuente added.

Messi, 39, has produced a series of vintage performances for Argentina to carry them into Sunday's final, which will almost certainly be the veteran's last appearance in the World Cup.

"Messi is one of a kind," de la Fuente said. "An example for young athletes in terms of his attitude and behaviour, especially given the spectacular World Cup he is playing at his age."

Sunday's final will also be a personal duel between de la Fuente and has Argentina counterpart Lionel Scaloni, who formed a friendship in 2017 when de la Fuente was an instructor as Scaloni studied for his professional coaching licence.

De la Fuente strongly pushed back at suggestions that Argentina may resort to skullduggery or streetwise tactics in an attempt to disrupt Spain.

"Oh, please, no, no, no," de la Fuente said. "I would never dare to say that. I have the utmost admiration for this national team.

"They've won the World Cup, two Copa Americas, the Finalissima... and they are led by a close friend of mine. I have nothing but admiration and more admiration for them.

"I believe that both Spain and Argentina will have a game plan where talent and good football will rule over everything else."

De la Fuente said his team was prepared to adjust for the extended half-time interval for Sunday's final. The break is expected to be nearly double the usual 15 minutes to accommodate a star-studded half-time show.

The Spain coach said he believed longer half-time breaks -- and the hydration breaks introduced at this World Cup -- could become football's "normality" in coming years.

"I think that everything that we consider to be strange or odd nowadays, you know, hydration breaks, the 30-minute half-time, maybe within 30 years will become normality," he said.

"Maybe football is developing that way. We don't know. It is what it is. We can't change that, so we'll have to enjoy it."

The 57-year-old coach has enjoyed a successful reign, winning the World Cup in 2018 and reaching the final in Qatar four years ago, having also won it as a player in 1998.

His talented team were favourites to win a third World Cup for France at the 2026 tournament but lost 2-0 to European champions Spain in the semi-finals.

That means Les Bleus will face England in Miami on Saturday after the Three Lions lost to defending champions Argentina.

"I know that the final curtain falls tomorrow," Deschamps said at his pre-match press conference on Friday.

"No one here is going to cry, but I know I'll miss the French team. For 15 years (he was appointed in 2012), I had the privilege of experiencing moments that were magical, and others that were difficult.

"But life goes on. I'm a positive person, and I know things will be good, too. It's the best thing that ever happened to me.

"It took up 25 years of my life and left a lasting mark. Unforgettable memories remain. But the most important thing is always what lies ahead."

Deschamps, who was captain when France won the World Cup on home soil in 1998, said his team were not playing the match they wanted to be in for his final game in charge.

"We are disappointed because we had a lot of ambition for this competition," he said.

"We must accept the loss, and we now have this game around the corner, and then we will go on holiday -- we all need it."

Deschamps said he had a duty to take the third-place playoff seriously, as it was not a friendly.

"The players, the staff and I have the duty to give it all and reach this last objective, less important than winning a final, but we are here," he said.

"The English team doesn't want to play, and neither do we, but there is an objective, there is a game to play."

Rampant racist messaging in the stands, online and even from politicians has occurred throughout the tournament that will wrap up with Sunday's final pitting Spain against Argentina.

A Paraguayan senator made derogatory comments about Mbappe while Spain's ex-leader Mariano Rajoy questioned the nationality of French footballers.

Black footballers on the Dutch national team meanwhile faced a barrage of online hate after missing penalties against Morocco.

Brazil's National Human Rights Council denounced "a transnational pattern of structural racism, racial discrimination and hate speech observed throughout the 2026 World Cup" in a statement sent to AFP.

It called on the United Nations and FIFA to ensure that tournament hosts United States, Mexico and Canada were adequately investigating and following up on racist incidents.

Council president Ivana Leal cited FIFA figures showing that out of over six million monitored social media posts, 89,000 contained abusive content, including thousands of a racist nature.

That figure is more than 13 times the number recorded during the 2022 edition of the tournament.

"The World Cup brings together millions of people and should represent an encounter between peoples and cultures," Leal stated.

The data shows that racism "remains a global challenge," she added.

A British minister had Thursday called for FIFA to look into the incident following the World Cup semi-final match in Atlanta.

FIFA released a statement late Thursday saying they were "assessing the match reports".

"As is standard procedure, Fifa's independent disciplinary committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps based on the Fifa disciplinary code," it said.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Downing Street office Thursday backed the calls by Business Minister Peter Kyle, who called the flag waving an "egregious violation" of FIFA rules which ban political symbols on the field of play.

"The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

Argentina invaded the British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic in 1982.

But Britain regained the archipelago in a brief war after then prime minister Margaret Thatcher dispatched a naval taskforce.

"Politics needs to be separate from football. In fact, the World Cup has one of its central tenets that politics is separate from football," Kyle told BBC television.

Argentina's football association were fined œ20,000 ($27,000) by FIFA in 2014 for players posing in front of a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia.

FIFA said the gesture had breached rules on "political action" and team misconduct.

Britain occupied the Falklands in the 19th century, but Argentina claims the islands are part of its territory.

Argentina President Javier Milei called the stunt "perfectly valid and legitimate."

"It's a feeling that exists within all Argentines," he told El Observador radio station.

"The Malvinas are Argentine, we're going to recover them, and we will do it through diplomatic means," said Milei.

Argentina's vice president, Victoria Villarruel, upped the tensions ahead of Wednesday's kick-off by dubbing the English "usurping pirates".

The 1982 conflict ended with the deaths of 649 Argentines and 255 Britons.

After the World Cup match, Argentina's Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno said Buenos Aires had filed a formal protest over a British warship near the Falkland Islands.

Quirno voiced on X "the strongest rejection" of Britain's HMS Medway's "unconsulted and illegal" passage through Argentine territorial waters.

The suspect, identified as Manjot Kalra, was arrested at a hotel in Colombo as he was "about to pay" a player 9.5 million rupees ($28,700), inspector Supun Vidanage of the Sports Investigation Unit said.

He said Kalra would be produced before a magistrate soon.

The player had alerted police when he was first approached about 10 days earlier, Vidanage said, without naming him.

The sixth edition of the T20 domestic tournament is set to open on Friday night in the capital Colombo with a match between the Jaffna and Galle teams. Kalra is a co-owner of the Jaffna team.

The tournament has been marred by allegations of corruption.

In January, a Sri Lankan court handed the British owner of an LPL team a four-year suspended sentence over match-fixing.

Bangladesh-born Tamim Rahman, owner of Dambulla Thunders, admitted to attempting to influence a player and organise betting.

Rahman was handed a four-year jail term, suspended for five years. He was also fined 24 million rupees.

The conviction was in line with a strict 2019 law aimed at preventing corruption in sports in Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Downing Street office backed the calls by Business Minister Peter Kyle following the World Cup semi-final match.

Kyle called the flag waving an "egregious violation" of FIFA rules which ban political symbols on the field of play.

"The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are," a Downing Street spokesperson said.

Argentina invaded the British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic in 1982.

But Britain regained the archipelago in a brief war after then prime minister Margaret Thatcher dispatched a naval taskforce.

Kyle urged football's global governing body FIFA to "thoroughly" investigate the banner incident after Wednesday's match in Atlanta.

"Politics needs to be separate from football. In fact, the World Cup has one of its central tenets that politics is separate from football," he told BBC television.

"That is now a matter for FIFA ... We expect FIFA to undertake an investigation into this," he added.

FIFA has not yet commented on the incident.

Britain occupied the Falklands in the 19th century, but Argentina claims the islands are part of its territory.

Argentina President Javier Milei meanwhile called the stunt "perfectly valid and legitimate."

"It's a feeling that exists within all Argentines," he told El Observador radio station.

But he urged against mixing politics with sport, adding that "a football match is a football match."

"The Malvinas are Argentine, we're going to recover them, and we will do it through diplomatic means," said Milei.

Argentina's vice president, Victoria Villarruel, upped the tensions ahead of Wednesday's kick-off by calling the English "usurping pirates".

The 1982 conflict ended with the deaths of 649 Argentines and 255 Britons.

Following their World Cup semi-final victory, Argentina's foreign minister said Buenos Aires had filed a formal protest over a British warship near the Falkland Islands.

Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno posted on X to express "the strongest rejection" of the United Kingdom's HMS Medway's "unconsulted and illegal" passage through Argentine territorial waters, alleging a lack of proper notification.

Quirno said the Medway, which is based in the Falkland Islands, was accused of violating bilateral agreements in a July 13-dated diplomatic note of protest submitted to the UK embassy in Buenos Aires.

France, the tournament's outstanding team en route to the last four, were anonymous in the face of a tactical masterclass by Spain on Tuesday and slumped to a 2-0 defeat. England added another chapter to their long history of World Cup heartache on Wednesday when they surrendered the initiative and a lead to lose 2-1 to Argentina in Atlanta.

France and England must now attempt to summon the remnants of their competitive will and physical reserves for a game that is widely disliked throughout football. "None of our players and none of the French players want to play this match," England manager Thomas Tuchel said after his team's agonising semi-final defeat.

"They want to play the final. We gave everything to achieve that. Everyone plays to win the World Cup, but that's how it is. "We have one less day of recovery than France, but we will do it with professionalism." The match will mark a sad footnote to Didier Deschamps' long reign as France coach. Deschamps, who, like Tuchel, has faced stinging criticism for the tactical decisions that marked his team's semi-final defeat, is stepping down as manager after the tournament.

The 57-year-old's departure ends a successful 14-year spell in charge that included a World Cup triumph in 2018, defeat in the final in Qatar in 2022 and a run to the last four in the current tournament. "There's a third-place finish to play for, so we'll do everything we can to get it," Deschamps said after France's semi-final loss.

"We're not where we wanted or expected to be. The disappointment matches our ambitions, but we have to accept it. We have no other choice." Yet while it will be scant consolation, the game might well prove pivotal for the World Cup's Golden Boot race.

France captain Kylian Mbappe is joint top scorer for the tournament alongside Argentina skipper Lionel Messi on eight goals, and will be looking to add to his tally against an unsettled English defence.

England's Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham -- who are on six goals apiece -- could also enter the running with a big performance at the Hard Rock Stadium.

- Last dance for Kane? -

For England's all-time record goalscorer Kane, the game may also mark the final World Cup appearance of his career.

The Bayern Munich forward turns 33 this month and it is questionable whether he will be around for the 2030 finals.

Kane declined to speculate on his international future following Wednesday's defeat.

"It's too early to talk about that," Kane told reporters.

"I'm taking it year by year and the national team is my pride and joy. It's what I love to do more than anything.... I never want to put a limit on these things."

The match is also an opportunity for Mbappe to move into top spot in the all-time World Cup scoring charts. The Real Madrid striker is currently on 20 goals, one behind Messi on 21.

Much may depend on the strength of the lineups fielded by both teams.

Tuchel is expected to rotate his starting side heavily after what has been a gruelling campaign.

An energy-sapping last-16 trip to the thin air of Mexico City and the Estadio Azteca was followed by a brutally hot quarter-final win over Norway in Miami before the shattering defeat to Argentina.

Tuchel is likely to give game time to players who have been on the fringes throughout the campaign, most likely meaning a World Cup debut for Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo and possibly a start for Kane's understudy as striker, Ollie Watkins.

Deschamps may be tempted to field veteran midfielder N'Golo Kante, one of the heroes of Les Bleus' 2018 World Cup win, who has not seen a minute of action in the United States.

The Brazilian attacker nicknamed "The King" was 17 when he scored two goals in his country's 5-2 victory over host country Sweden in 1958.

The blue shirt became the second most expensive jersey sold at auction after an anonymous buyer beat out four other bidders at Sotheby's in New York.

The record of $9.3 million is for a jersey worn by Argentinian star Maradona during a legendary quarter-final clash with England in the 1986 Mexico World Cup.

Argentina won the match 2-1 thanks to two Maradona goals, including his infamous "Hand of God" finish in which he illegally punched the ball into the net.

Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player from Greece who led the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 title, said Messi was the kind of player -- like LeBron James -- who produced the "blueprint" for sporting greatness.

"You've just got to follow," he said. "It's hard. You have to be disciplined. You have to be dedicated to your craft. But it's there. And if you want to follow, you follow. If you don't want to follow, you go home."

Antetokounmpo watched Messi and Argentina book their place in the World Cup final with a victory over England on Wednesday in Atlanta.

Then he headed to Miami to be introduced on Thursday as the Heat's newest star in the wake of his trade from the Bucks.

"I was thinking about his path," Antetokounmpo said, recalling Messi's trajectory from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and, in 2023, to Major League Soccer's Inter Miami in a move that many predicted would see him fade from the elite scene.

Instead the 39-year-old is on the cusp of a second straight World Cup crown.

"Messi might go down as one of the best athletes of all time," Antetokounmpo said as he catalogued the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's litany of Spanish and French league titles and Champions League successes, all followed by a star turn in MLS that has so far included an MLS Cup crown and two MVP awards.

"He might have two World Cup Finals wins," Antetokounmpo said.

"When you see that, you get inspired. You definitely get inspired to take care of your body, to keep doing the right thing for your team."

Antetokounmpo said he was particularly struck by a moment in Wednesday's win over England when Messi took a shove and hit the ground.

"And then you could see all of his teammates sprinted to help him out," Antetokounmpo said. "You have to earn that. The respect that he has from his team-mates, that's earned ... hopefully in my career I'm able to do something like that."

The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 pm Bangladesh time.

Bangladesh currently sit at the top of the standings with six points after winning their opening two matches of the tournament.

The girls in red and green made an impressive start by thrashing Hong Kong China 6-0 in their opening match before edging Uzbekistan 1-0 in their second outing.

The Women's Junior AHF Cup is being contested by Bangladesh, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Hong Kong China in a round-robin league format.

The team finishing at the top of the points table at the end of the tournament will be crowned champions.

Tahsin has one point from two matches after beginning the tournament with an impressive victory over Itai Gal On in the opening round.

In the fifth round, IM Neer played with the white pieces in secured a valuable draw against Indian IM Goutham.

The defending champions were up against it, trailing to Anthony Gordon's goal until the 85th minute in Atlanta before Messi worked his magic.

This time the tournament's all-time leading marksman did not score. But he teed up Enzo Fernandez for the equaliser and delivered the cross for Lautaro Martinez to head in the winner, sealing a 2-1 victory.

"These are special feelings. I think the squad could feel it and this was a game the Argentine people really wanted to win, and so did we," Messi, 39, said after facing England for the first time in his career.

"This is still a special fixture."

He was not quite able to emulate Diego Maradona, who scored two iconic goals in Argentina's 1986 World Cup quarter-final win over England.

But he will settle for the two assists, and he has already emulated his legendary predecessor by winning the trophy four years ago in Qatar.

Now, after Argentina maintained their incredible record of never having lost a World Cup semi-final, Messi will appear in a second straight final, and a third overall.

The South Americans are aiming to become the first team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962, and Messi, the sole survivor from the side that lost to Germany in 2014, will become just the second player after Brazilian great Cafu to appear in three finals.

"It is crazy to be playing in back-to-back finals," he said.

Argentina had already staged a stunning late comeback to beat Egypt 3-2 in the same Atlanta stadium in the last 16, and they smelled blood as England sat deeper and deeper after going ahead.

"Once again we managed to do the job when things were looking bad. We never stopped believing," said Messi, who has now played a record 33 World Cup games across six different tournaments.

For long spells on Wednesday his influence was limited, but that has often been the way with Messi and he was still able to drag his team to victory.

"I felt like for large parts of the game, we dealt with him really well. But as always with the most dangerous players in the world, when they have the ball in the final third, they can create something," said England captain Harry Kane.

"He's done that again today. He's obviously one of the best players ever for a reason."

- Spanish reunion -

Messi is arguably the greatest of all, and there may no longer be an argument if Argentina successfully defend their title in Sunday's final against Spain.

Pele and Maradona only played in two World Cup finals while Maradona won the trophy just once.

Messi is also the all-time top scorer in World Cup history with 21 goals, although Kylian Mbappe is just one behind and plays Saturday against England in the third-place play-off.

He could easily have bowed out of international football after 2022, when Argentina defeated France in the final.

But he appears to have been saving himself for this World Cup in recent years, removing himself from the intensity of European football and acclimatising to American conditions with Inter Miami.

While Cristiano Ronaldo's ongoing presence in the Portugal team may have held them back, Messi remains almost as influential as ever.

"He is just the leader and key player in any team in which he plays," said England coach Thomas Tuchel.

Now he gets his chance to play Spain in a competitive game for the first time, and the identity of the opposition makes the occasion even more special.

Messi moved to Barcelona with his family at the age of 13 and stayed for two decades, before leaving in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain.

He has a Spanish passport and may one day settle down again in Castelldefels, just down the coast from Barcelona.

But before Messi thinks about that, he wants to douse Spain's dreams.

Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno posted on X to express "the strongest rejection" of the United Kingdom's HMS Medway's "unconsulted and illegal" passage through Argentine territorial waters, alleging a lack of proper notification.

Quirno said the Medway, which is based in the Falkland Islands, is accused of violating bilateral agreements in a July 13-dated diplomatic note of protest submitted to the United Kingdom's embassy in Buenos Aires.

"In diplomacy, work is not shouted about like goals, but we are driven by the same conviction: the pride of being Argentine and the constant defense of our interests," Quirno said in a statement.

Before the post went up, Argentine president Javier Milei told local broadcaster Radio Mitre that the World Cup victory was just "a football match."

"We are making enormous progress on the diplomatic front. We have managed to get the UN to force England to sit down and talk with us, but let's not confuse the score: This is a football match," Milei said, after celebrating the team's "glorious step" in advancing to the World Cup finals.

After the thrilling Argentina-England match, which ended 2-1, Albiceleste players celebrated by unfurling a banner that read: "The Falklands are Argentine."

Argentina and the United Kingdom went to war over the South Atlantic archipelago in 1982, in a conflict that left 649 Argentines and 255 Britons dead.

Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday in New Jersey.

"I dreamt it. I told Alexis (Mac Allister) that I was going to score," Martinez said after his heroics off the bench in Atlanta as the reigning champions won the game 2-1.

"And I said on the bench to Facundo Medina that I was going to come on and score."

The World Cup holders were trailing 1-0 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium when the Inter Milan striker was sent on in the 81st minute in place of left-back Nicolas Tagliafico.

Lionel Messi set up Enzo Fernandez to equalise in the 85th minute and the Argentina captain then crossed for Martinez to head in the winner in the second minute of injury time.

"When my old man first bought me a pair of boots, I always dreamed of scoring this goal," said an emotional Martinez.

When he spoke again to reporters after leaving the dressing room, Martinez said he had just got off the phone to his mother, who was at work.

The 28-year-old Martinez lost his place in Lionel Scaloni's Argentina team early on their run to glory at the 2022 World Cup.

He started all three group games this time, scoring in the 3-1 win over Jordan, but was substituted in the narrow victory over Cape Verde in the last 32 and has not started since.

Nevertheless, he came on to score in the 3-1 extra-time defeat of Switzerland in the quarter-finals before his decisive role against England.

Argentina will now take on Spain in Sunday's final in New Jersey.

"We are going to be coming up against a top-class side who have not lost in 38 games and have great players," said Martinez.

"Now we need to get some rest but also enjoy this because what we are doing is not easy, getting back to the final as defending champions three and a half years after winning it."

Spain's last defeat was a 1-0 reverse in a friendly against Colombia in March 2024.

The teams were due to meet in Qatar in March in the Finalissima, the fixture recently introduced to pit the European champions against the winners of the Copa America.

That game was postponed due to the war in the Middle East, triggered by US-Israeli strikes against Iran.

The only previous World Cup meeting of Spain and Argentina came in 1966, when the South Americans won 2-1 in a group-stage contest played at Birmingham's Villa Park.

O'Callaghan, the reigning Olympic 200m freestyle champion, revealed her anguish in the run-up to the games in Glasgow, which begin on July 23, and the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships in California in August.

"Last month I was told I wouldn't be able to compete at Trials, the Commonwealth Games or Pan Pacs. I was also told to stop swimming immediately," the 22-year-old posted on Instagram.

"It was a moment that reinforced just how much representing Australia means to me and how badly I want to be part of this team."

Scans showed stress fractures and bone oedema on her lumbar spine, O'Callaghan said, and her team sought advice from a spinal specialist.

After "further assessment" following the swimming trials, O'Callaghan said she was given the green light to compete at the Commonwealth Games and the Pan Pacific championships.

O'Callaghan is entered in three individual events in Glasgow -- the 100m and 200m freestyle, and 50m backstroke -- and several women's and mixed relays, but she hinted her schedule could change.

"Things might look a little different for me at the Commonwealth Games and Pan Pacs but I'll give everything I have and do my absolute best every time I race," she said.

O'Callaghan's health revelations came a day after fellow Australian swimmer Shayna Jack announced she will retire from competition after the Commonwealth Games.

"I'm ready to announce my retirement and be Shayna Jack," she said in an emotional video recalling how "life blew up for me in 2019".

With the 2020 Games in her sights, her world came crashing down after testing positive for the muscle growth agent ligandrol in an out-of-competition test in June 2019.

She was banned for four years despite proclaiming her innocence, insisting the substance entered her system by contamination.

"I want to go out there, head held high, proud of who I am, proud of who I am representing and proud of what I am saying goodbye to," Jack said.

The fixture between two of the big beasts of global football is mouthwatering enough but is given added spice by long-standing political tensions.

Lionel Scaloni's Argentina are seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, which would be a staggering send-off for the incomparable Messi.

The 39-year-old, joint top of the Golden Boot standings with eight goals, inspired his team to victory in Qatar in 2022 in what was expected to be his final hurrah on football's biggest stage.

But he is back for more and has played a pivotal role in dragging his team to the semi-finals, scoring in hard-fought 3-2 victories against Cape Verde and Egypt.

Three-time champions Argentina will be taking on a different class of opponent in Atlanta compared with teams they have faced so far, even if England have only sparkled intermittently.

Thomas Tuchel's men have relied on the brilliance of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have scored 12 of England's 13 goals.

The sides will meet for the first time in a competitive match since the 2002 World Cup.

Tuchel said he did not feel extra pressure despite the historic nature of the fixture as England target a first World Cup final since they won the tournament in 1966.

"I don't feel a burden," he said. "We feel the tension and will be nervous but that is normal.

"What I like is that I feel the players are really competitive, hungry and excited to play this match."

The German added that midfielder Declan Rice, who has been struggling with illness, was fit to start.

- Drama -

The history of the fixture is littered with drama.

Their most storied World Cup encounter was a 2-1 victory for Argentina in the quarter-finals in Mexico in 1986, featuring two goals from Diego Maradona -- one the infamous "Hand of God" goal and the other a dazzling solo effort.

Twelve years later David Beckham was sent off in France as Argentina won on penalties.

Matches between the teams take place against the backdrop of a lingering sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, known in Spanish as the Malvinas, in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Britain sent a military taskforce in 1982 to reclaim the islands after Argentine troops invaded.

Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has in recent days sought to take the sting out of the fixture.

"The reality is this is a football match," he said. "I am not going to mix everything up, especially regarding things that happened so long ago.

"It was a very sad time in our history and we can't do much about it. This is a football game, that's all."

The two teams -- both ranked by FIFA in the world's top four -- are competing for the right to face Spain in Sunday's final in New Jersey.

Luis de la Fuente's team produced a masterclass in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday to dispatch hot-shots France, who were widely tipped to win the World Cup for a third time after their swaggering attacking displays.

But European champions Spain produced a clinical performance to ensure France manager Didier Deschamps would end his World Cup career with defeat.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for the 2010 winners with an emphatic penalty in the first half and Pedro Porro doubled their lead in the second half.

"We started almost four years ago with an idea and we've been faithful to that idea and it's brought us here," said De la Fuente.

"These players deserve everything," he added. "Day after day they've shown their commitment, their solidarity, their generosity, their talent. They make the difficult look easy."

1962 - First round in Rancagua, Chile

England won 3-1 in a match that had none of the controversy of subsequent meetings between the two sides. They went on to reach the quarter-finals while Argentina exited in the first round.

1966 - Quarter-final at Wembley, England

A bad-tempered affair marred by some vicious challenges by Argentina, who had captain Antonio Rattin sent off for dissent. Rattin took almost 10 minutes to leave the pitch.

The South Americans defended in numbers and made it difficult for England before Geoff Hurst scored in a 1-0 win.

England boss Alf Ramsey was so incensed by Argentina's tactics that he branded the visiting team "animals", barring his players from swapping shirts with their opponents.

Rattin died on Saturday at the age of 89, on the day England and Argentina qualified for the semi-finals of the 2026 tournament.

1986 - Quarter-final in Mexico City

The match at the Estadio Azteca is remembered for Diego Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal.

Maradona punched the ball past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton to give the South Americans a 1-0 lead. But there was no controversy about Maradona's second goal -- arguably the greatest in World Cup history.

He collected the ball near the halfway line and skipped past several desperate England tackles before tucking the ball past Shilton.

Gary Lineker pulled a goal back but Argentina held on for a 2-1 victory and went on to win the tournament for a second time.

1998 - Second round in St Etienne, France

Michael Owen scored a wonder goal and David Beckham was sent off for kicking Diego Simeone in a dramatic encounter.

Simeone would admit years later he had done everything in his power to provoke Beckham.

Despite being reduced to 10 men early in the second half, England managed to hold on and might have snatched a sensational victory if Sol Campbell's late header had not been disallowed.

The match went to penalties and David Batty's miss confirmed England's exit.

2002 - Group stage in Sapporo, Japan

Beckham got a measure of revenge for his red card four years earlier when he scored a 44th-minute penalty that settled a tense affair 1-0 in England's favour.

The defeat deepened problems for an Argentina side featuring Simeone, Juan Sebastian Veron and Gabriel Batistuta, who crashed out in the group phase.

England would go on to exit at the hands of Brazil in the quarter-finals.

Shell-shocked France could not find a way back into the match despite their wealth of attacking riches on a bitterly disappointing day for the two-time winners. "We started almost four years ago with an idea and we've been faithful to that idea and it's brought us here," said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente. "These players deserve everything," he added. "Day after day they've shown their commitment, their solidarity, their generosity, their talent. They make the difficult look easy."

The game at the AT&T Stadium caught fire midway through the first half when Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton pointed to the penalty spot after a reckless challenge by France left-back Lucas Digne on Spain winger Lamine Yamal. Oyarzabal hammered the ball past France goalkeeper Mike Maignan for his fifth goal of the World Cup to leave France trailing for the first time in the tournament. It was the Real Sociedad forward's 18th goal in his past 20 games for Spain.

Deschamps threw on Desire Doue for Bradley Barcola in the 57th minute in a bid to supercharge his attack but a minute later they were 2-0 down after a stunning team goal for Spain involving Dani Olmo and defender Porro. Spain, who have conceded just once in the entire tournament, are the first team in World Cup history to keep six clean sheets at a single edition. They have now gone 37 games without defeat in all competitions, equalling the record unbeaten streak by a European nation.

But defeat in Texas is a bitter blow for a France team that reached the past two finals, winning in 2018 and finishing as runners-up four years ago. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe was just one cog in a star-studded attack that also included Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and the elegant Michael Olise. Defeat leaves just the third-place play-off on Saturday for long-serving coach Deschamps, who is stepping down after 14 years in charge.

The 57-year-old, who has won the World Cup as a coach and player, said his players were "devastated". "First of all, it's our fault, I don't want to blame anyone," he said. But Deschamps could not resist a dig at referee Barton. "I'll ask a loaded question and I won't answer it," said the France coach. "Is the referee at the level required to officiate a World Cup semi-final? "And I'm not saying this just because we lost today. There were quite a few situations. There were some favourable calls, too," he added, without elaborating. In the other semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday, England and Argentina will lock horns in the latest chapter of one of the game's most compelling rivalries.

The history of matches between the nations is peppered with incidents, set against a lingering sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, known in Spanish as the Malvinas, in the South Atlantic Ocean. The encounter takes place 40 years after Diego Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal helped Argentina to a 2-1 win at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. England captain Harry Kane, who is competing wity Lionel Messi and Mbappe for the Golden Boot, said his team would not be distracted by emotional baggage around the fixture.

"From a player's point of view it's us against a great team, who are smart, who are tactical, who know how to buy fouls, know how to slow the game down -- like many different teams you come up against throughout your whole career," Kane told ITV.

Barcola lines up on the left side of the front three with Michael Olise in the centre and Ousmane Dembele on the right flank, with captain Kylian Mbappe the striker. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente meanwhile named an unchanged starting line-up for the game at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

De la Fuente has kept faith with the team that defeated Belgium 2-1 in Friday's quarter-final in Los Angeles. Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz gets the nod ahead of Barcelona's Pedri to partner Rodri at the base of the Spanish midfield. Lamine Yamal takes his usual position on the right wing, with Atletico Madrid's Alex Baena on the opposite flank. Dani Olmo is in the middle behind striker Mikel Oyarzabal.

"People didn't give us a chance, but we were able to beat France and we will beat whoever it may be in the final," the student said. Swarms of people sporting Spain football shirts milled around central Madrid with the red and yellow Spanish flag draped over their shoulders or painted on their cheeks.

"Long live Spain!", "I am Spanish!", they chanted, capturing the moment on their phones and dancing to popular stadium tunes. People who were turned away from the fan zone in Colon Square occupied a bus lane, sat on patches of grass or on walls, craning their necks to glimpse the giant screen.

Others crowded around overflowing bars and restaurants showing the match and followed it from the streets. The showdown in Arlington, Texas had been viewed as worthy of a final, with pundits pointing to France's fearsome attack that boasts superstar Kylian Mbappe and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele.

But Spain managed to snuff out Les Bleus as a Mikel Oyarzabal penalty and a goal from Pedro Porro took Luis de la Fuente's side to Sunday's final in New Jersey with a superbly controlled display. Before the game, 17-year-old student Erika Barea admitted that the French attack "scares me a lot, because the only thing I don't want is for France to win".

But she pointed to Spain's superior record in recent encounters against France as a cause for optimism. La Roja knocked France out of Euro 2024 en route to the title and defeated Didier Deschamps's men in last year's Nations League semi-finals. Jaime Lopez, a 19-year-old music student, had insisted Spain's collective strength was enough to get over the line against star-studded France -- and he was right.

"In general, I think they form a good team. They don't have very big stars, but they have a good team that knows how to play well," he told AFP. The form of Spain forward Lamine Yamal, who celebrated his 19th birthday on Monday, had been subject to scrutiny after he arrived at the World Cup still recovering from an injury.

Yet the teenage superstar played an important role as he won the first-half penalty that broke the deadlock. "I think he's been getting better," insisted Celia Vazquez, a 50-year-old administrator who lives in Barcelona. "He's been a bit quiet, but always when you go out onto the pitch, being in a game like that, I think it motivates you, you get fired up," Vazquez said.

Contemplating the prospect of Spain repeating their 2010 World Cup triumph in South Africa, student Sanchez remembered celebrating with his family as a young child and hoped to live the experience again. "Enjoy this moment as much as possible, you only live it, not once in life, but twice if we win this World Cup," he said.

Between them, Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue had helped France rattle in 16 goals in six matches en route to Tuesday's semi-final. But in a comprehensive Spanish masterclass at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas it took France's vaunted attacking arsenal more than 75 minutes to even register a shot on target. By that stage, Spain were on cruise control, leading 2-0 as Les Bleus' players grappled with the realisation that an arsenal is only as potent as its ammunition.

With the supply lines from midfield severed by Spain's talented triumvirate of Rodri, Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz, France were left firing blanks. "We kept finding ourselves outnumbered 3-on-2 in midfield," Mbappe said. "And against Spain, that's a real problem...When you put it all together, the result is a defeat. It's a huge disappointment. "I don't think we played the match we wanted to play -- whether tactically, technically, or in terms of our overall performance level," Mbappe added.

"And when you don't do what you're supposed to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don't win." Deschamps meanwhile will depart his position as France manager reflecting on a bitterly disappointing end to a campaign which over the past five weeks had promised to end in a crowning glory. It will also leave many wondering how Deschamps failed to come up with a tactical gameplan to counter Spain's renowned passing game.

Having already masterminded one World Cup victory in 2018, taken France to within a penalty shoot-out defeat of another in 2022, a triumphant send-off in New Jersey looked there for the taking. "It is not really important on a personal level whether I leave this competition in the semi-final or final," Deschamps insisted. "It's not time to talk about the future. And I am extremely happy. I am very proud of everything we've done with the national team.

"I have been lucky as a player to enjoy a big moment. Today is not such a moment but I think we must accept it without forgetting everything that we've experienced so far." Mbappe meanwhile was left reflecting on a campaign cut short. A victory on Tuesday would have seen the 27-year-old become only the second player in history after Brazil's Cafu in 1994, 1998 and 2002, to grace three World Cup finals.

Instead, the Real Madrid star will be heading to Miami's Hard Rock Stadium with France to play in the dreaded bronze medal game on Saturday. But Mbappe sounded a defiant note as France exited the tournament, insisting a squad brimming with talent would have the means to rise again with the 2028 European Championships on the horizon. "It was a dream for us to reach the final, to give our country the chance to keep dreaming and to make history," he said.

"Now, it is something we have to face with our heads held high. I believe that when you win, you win with your head held high; so when you lose, you have to lose with your head held high, too. "But right now, there is immense disappointment. I find it hard to put into words just how disappointed the squad and I are. "Yet even if it might seem a bit robotic at times, we have to pick ourselves up, go on vacation, and move on to the next chapter. Because football waits for no one. We have to start over, put this failure behind us, and learn from it."

When Mbappe scored in France's win over Croatia in the deciding match of the 2018 tournament, he was just 19 years and 207 days old. He therefore became only the second teenager to score in a World Cup final after a 17-year-old Pele in 1958.

Mbappe's love affair with the World Cup began then, while this is Yamal's first experience of the competition.

He has already had his big breakthrough in a major tournament, however -- Yamal's stunning goal in the Euro 2024 semi-final against Mbappe's France helped Spain to a 2-1 victory.

That came four days before he turned 17. His birthday was the day before the final. Spain beat England, and Yamal was named young player of the tournament.

This time his 19th birthday comes on the eve of the semi-final in Arlington.

Such a young player with his best years to come. But he is clearly eager to leave a firm mark on this World Cup.

Perhaps too eager, having at one point been a doubt for the tournament after missing the end of the season with Barcelona due to a hamstring injury.

"I was afraid it might be serious and, above all, that even if it wasn't serious, I could suffer a setback and end up missing the World Cup," Yamal admitted in late May.

- Anxiety? -

After coming off the bench in Spain's opening 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, Yamal started against Saudi Arabia and scored before being replaced at half-time in a 4-0 victory.

He has started every game since, without adding to that solitary goal -- that might be getting to him.

"I think Lamine needs to calm the anxiety he sometimes has because he wants to show how important a player he is for us," Spain captain Rodri said Sunday.

"Given he was able to show that level of maturity at that European Championship, when he is two years older you are not so impressed by what he is able to do," he added.

With Yamal not as decisive, Spain have lacked the deadly verticality that made them so hard to stop at the Euros.

France, meanwhile, have rediscovered a cutting edge that evaded them at the Euros, and have the most thrilling attack at this World Cup.

Mbappe, now 27, is the talisman and seems intent on leaving a legacy as an all-time World Cup great.

With eight goals here, he is level with Lionel Messi in the golden boot race and is one behind the Argentine's all-time World Cup record of 21 goals.

- Third straight final? -

Having won the trophy in 2018 and scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final, Mbappe has a third straight final in his sights.

He can therefore match the achievement of the great Brazil full-back Cafu, who played in three in a row from 1994 to 2002. Pele and Diego Maradona each only graced two finals.

His apparent obsession with the World Cup may explain why he missed a chunk of the second half of the season with Real Madrid. As he nursed injuries, some supporters questioned his commitment to their club.

"I know people talk about the stats. I watch the TV too. But my only focus is on helping the team and getting us back here on July 19," he said after beating Sweden in the last 32 at the MetLife Stadium, the venue for the final.

"I have won a World Cup and been a runner-up. This team has done neither of those things, but it is the team with the greatest potential," he added after defeating Morocco in the quarter-finals.

Yamal and Mbappe are already icons in their home countries and beyond, two young men representing the modern face of multicultural Europe.

Mbappe has the greater experience, has already won the World Cup and is confident speaking publicly in English -- those factors help make him one of the faces of this tournament in the US.

The dazzling Yamal is still catching up off the field, but his record against Mbappe on the pitch is impressive.

They have met frequently across the Clasico divide in the last two years -- so far Mbappe has eight defeats and just two wins in 10 games against Yamal with club and country.

In the blue corner are France, who have progressed serenely to the last four on the back of a multi-pronged strike-force spearheaded by captain Kylian Mbappe -- he has scored eight goals in six games. Mbappe's supporting cast includes Bayern Munich star Michael Olise, Ballon D'Or winner Ousmane Dembele and Paris Saint-Germain duo Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue.

In the red corner, Spain, who have calmly worked their way into the semi-finals with their brand of possession-based, relentless football that has become their trademark under Luis de la Fuente.

While individual brilliance has lit up France's campaign, Spain have relied on collective menace -- a well-oiled machine founded on the silky passing of midfielders such as Rodri, Pedri and Fabian Ruiz, providing ammunition for teenage winger Lamine Yamal.

It all adds up to a classic clash of styles that will see Spain attempt to sever the supply lines to Mbappe and company by controlling possession, while simultaneously seeking to put pressure on a France defence that has yet to be seriously tested.

While that may be easier said than done, Spain will take encouragement from their recent record against France.

La Roja defeated France 5-4 in a high-scoring UEFA Nations League thriller last year, and also scored a 2-1 semi-final win en route to victory at the European Championship in 2024.

- Nothing to fear -

Yamal, who will go into Tuesday's blockbuster just a day after turning 19, says Spain have nothing to fear.

"Obviously we are two great teams, among the best in the world. We'll see what happens, but we have no fear," Yamal said after Spain's 2-1 quarter-final defeat of Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday.

"There are two possibilities -- either they reach three consecutive World Cup finals, or we beat them three times in a row. We'll see what happens. We aren't afraid at all."

Spain coach De la Fuente echoed Yamal's message of "no fear".

"The French are in great form, and we have different playing styles," De la Fuente said. "We have the greatest respect for our opponents, but we feel capable of beating any team.

"We're aware of their immense potential, but we also know that we're the only team to have beaten them in two semi-finals."

France, meanwhile, will expect their gilded attacking line-up to pose questions of a steely Spanish defence that only conceded its first goal of the tournament in Friday's win against the Belgians.

There is also a tangible sense of purpose driving a united French squad towards a second World Cup title in three tournaments under Deschamps, who will step down at the end of the finals.

France's arrival in the last four makes them only the third nation to reach three consecutive World Cup semi-finals after Germany (1982-90 and 2002-14) and Brazil (1994, 1998, 2002).

Deschamps modestly plays down his own role in transforming France into the superpower of modern international football as they aim for a third straight final appearance.

"I don't know, having very good players I guess. But I can't be doing my job too badly," Deschamps said last week when asked for the secret to his success.

"It is a human adventure and even though I chose the players, to be with this squad every day is very important," Deschamps added.

"I am very happy on a personal level and also happy to see them enjoying themselves so much."

That sense of affection is reciprocated by France's players, illustrated most clearly when Mbappe celebrated scoring a goal against Sweden by sprinting to the sideline to embrace Deschamps, who had just rejoined the team after returning to France following the death of his mother.

"It is in this squad's DNA to all be together and behind the coach, whatever happens," said Mbappe.

1984 European Championship final: France 2 Spain 0

The first competitive meeting of the European neighbours came in Paris in the Euro 84 final, as a France team inspired by Michel Platini claimed their first major international title. The game at the Parc des Princes hinged on a Platini free-kick just before the hour mark which Spain goalkeeper Luis Arconada let squirm through his grasp and in to give France the lead. It was Platini's ninth goal in five games at the tournament, and set them on the way to victory. They had Yvon Le Roux sent off late on but Bruno Bellone then sealed their triumph.

France were European champions, and Spain would not reach another tournament final until they won Euro 2008.

- French fightback in Hanover -

2006 World Cup, last 16: Spain 1 France 3

The only meeting of the teams at a World Cup before this year came in Germany in 2006, as they faced off in the last 16 in Hanover.

A strong Spain team topped their group with three wins out of three, while France laboured through as runners-up in their section after being held by Switzerland and South Korea.

Spain went ahead through a David Villa penalty, but Franck Ribery equalised before half-time. Patrick Vieira then put France in front as extra time loomed, and Zinedine Zidane clinched the victory.

Raymond Domenech's France ended up losing the final on penalties to Italy, while Spain were left bruised by another major tournament in which they fell short of their potential -- they bounced back to win the 2010 World Cup, though, in between back-to-back Euro triumphs in 2008 and 2012.

- Mbappe wins Nations League -

2021 UEFA Nations League final: Spain 1 France 2

There have been a series of meetings between the teams in a tournament context in recent years, beginning with the 2021 Nations League final in Milan.

In front of a restricted crowd due to the Covid pandemic, Mikel Oyarzabal gave Luis Enrique's Spain the lead just after the hour mark.

Karim Benzema, the Real Madrid striker who had recently been brought back into the international fold after over five years in the wilderness, equalised from Kylian Mbappe's assist. Mbappe then grabbed the winner as France won the second title of Didier Deschamps' reign as coach, after the 2018 World Cup.

- Yamal's stunner -

Euro 2024 semi-final: Spain 2 France 1

The France team at Euro 2024 was different to the side that has lit up this World Cup. They reached the last four by scoring three goals in five games -- one was a penalty, the other two were own goals.

Randal Kolo Muani became the first France player to score in open play at the tournament when he gave them the lead early in the semi-final against Spain in Munich.

But Lamine Yamal equalised with a wonderful strike, four days before his 17th birthday. Dani Olmo then got what proved to be the winner a few minutes later, and Spain went on to defeat England in the final.

- Nine-goal thriller -

2025 UEFA Nations League semi-final: Spain 5 France 4

France had started their transformation into a much more exciting team when the sides last met, in the Nations League semi-finals in June last year in Stuttgart.

Spain were 4-0 up early in the second half thanks to goals by Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, a Lamine Yamal penalty, and Pedri.

Kylian Mbappe pulled one back from the spot but Yamal got Spain's fifth, before France rallied and strikes by Rayan Cherki and Randal Kolo Muani either side of a Dani Vivian own goal made the scoreline more respectable.

Spain went on to lose the final on penalties to Portugal. Spain also won 5-3 in the gold medal match at the 2024 Olympics -- Manu Kone, Michael Olise, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Desire Doue, Rayan Cherki, Pau Cubarsi and Alex Baena all played in that game, and are in line to feature this time too.

Fisk got up and down for par from greenside bunkers at each of the first two playoff holes and sealed the win with a two-putt par as Canada's Pendrith made a bogey after finding a fairway bunker off the tee.

"It's what we play for," Fisk said. "I could give a damn about finishing 60th in a golf tournament. This is what I want to do."

Pendrith matched the low round of the day with a five-under par 65 that put him first in the clubhouse on 16-under 264.

Fisk nabbed four birdies in a three-under 67 to join him and both parred the first playoff hole, where Fisk salvaged par from a greenside bunker as Pendrith two-putted from nine feet.

Both saved par at the second playoff hole before Fisk clinched the win he called a "vindication" after his first title in Jackson, Mississippi, last year.

That win, he said, was "kind of out of nowhere. I feel like I've shown spurts of some better golf this year but haven't been able to sustain it.

"So to come out here today and grind my butt off is pretty special."

Canadian Ben Silverman and American Aaron Wise shared third on 15-under 265.

Silverman climbed the leaderboard with a four-under 66 while Wise signed for a 69.

Former US Open champion Lucas Glover started the day with a one-stroke lead but carded a one-over par 71 to finish tied for fifth on 14-under.

Ohtani, who homered off the first Arizona pitch Sunday, was to skip the All-Star Game and have fluid drained off his left knee, giving him four days to recover before the Dodgers return to the field on Friday against the New York Yankees. "The knee flared up. Sometimes it calms down," said Ohtani, who indicated his pitching motion could be causing the knee issue. "In terms of the knee, I think it's more of my pitching mechanics. That's something I need to work on."

Ohtani is a candidate for a fifth overall and fourth consecutive Most Valuable Player award, a third in a row in the National League after an American League MVP in his last season with the Los Angeles Angels. "He has been managing this quite well, the knee, and so if there's a chance we could be proactive and get it drained... we were going to do that," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.

Ohtani is batting .293 with 22 home runs and 58 runs batted in at the plate while as a pitcher he is 8-2 with 95 strikeouts and a 1.79 earned-run average. The Dodgers beat the Yankees in the 2024 World Series and triumphed over Toronto last year. They could become the first National League club ever to win the championship final three years in a row, the first overall to do it since the Yankees won from 1998-2000.

Los Angeles reached the All-Star break leading Arizona by 11.5 games in the NL West division, by far the largest margin for any division leader. Milwaukee, the NL Central leader, ranks second overall on 59-37. Atlanta leads the NL East at 55-40 with Philadelphia, the Chicago Cubs and Miami in wildcard playoff positions with St. Louis, Arizona and Washington within four games.

In the American League, Tampa Bay leads the AL East and overall at 56-38 with the Yankees second at 54-42 and in the top wildcard spot. The Chicago White Sox lead the AL Central at 50-45 with Cleveland just behind and the Texas Rangers lead the AL West on 49-47 with Seattle in the final wildcard spot.

Philadelphia designated hitter Kyle Schwarber leads the NL with 32 home runs, one more than AL leader Yordan Alvarez of Houston. St. Louis outfielder Jordan Walker leads MLB with 74 runs batted in with AL leader Alvarez next on 70. Miami shortstop Otto Lopez leads in batting average at .334 with San Francisco second baseman Luis Arreaz on .331. Tampa Bay's Yandy Diaz tops the AL at .322 with Alvarez next on .318.

- Sanchez, Cease start -

Philadelphia right-hander Cristopher Sanchez and Toronto right-hander Dylan Cease were named starting pitchers for Tuesday's MLB All-Star Game at Philadelphia. Fatigue kept out Milwaukee pitcher Jacob Misiorowski, who tops MLB with 167 strikeouts to 148 for Cease. Misiorowski also tops MLB with a 1.62 earned-run average.

Milwaukee's Aaron Ashby is 12-2 with the most wins with Sanchez 11-4 and tied for second with Boston's Sonny Gray and Chase Burns of Cincinnati.

Sanchez will be the first Phillies pitcher to start the All-Star Game since Roy Halladay in 2011 and will do so in his home ballpark.

Cease will be the first Toronto pitcher to start the All-Star Game since Halladay in 2009.

But a gifted player pool that also included Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany and Marouane Fellaini came up short in major tournaments, with their best performance a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup. Friday's agonising 2-1 loss, which followed a blunder by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens after Courtois came off injured in the 71st minute, marked a familiar story for Belgium. "To be a golden generation you have to win some gold and then you can be called that," one commentator has said of the Red Devils.

But talking to journalists after the loss Courtois was adamant that Belgium's old guard could look back at their tournament record with pride, pointing out that in several cases, notably the 2018 World Cup and 2021 European Championship, they had been eliminated by the eventual winners. "In the big tournaments, almost always we have done well," Courtois said. "We're very proud of everything we did till now. Obviously we get a lot of criticism like 'The golden generation never won anything, and so on.'

"But we are Belgium. We're not England. We're not Spain. We're not France. We are a small country of not even 12 million people that in big tournaments is showing amazing things. "In 2018 (World Cup) I think we were playing the best football in that tournament. So there are things to be proud of. "It's really easy to criticize and say, 'Yeah, you didn't win anything.' But look at all big names in football. Not everyone has won a big tournament, and we always tried it. I think we can be proud."

While several members of the team who started on Friday are well into their 30s, Courtois is confident that Belgium will continue to produce young talent into the future. "We have great youth academies that are working well... there's young talent coming up, and the guys that are younger now will get stronger the next years. "And I'm hoping that for the Euros or the next World Cup, we'll get stronger. I think we have the spirit."

Late in the game and with the score tied 1-1, Spain's Pau Cubarsi had shot low from range. Belgian substitute 'keeper Senne Lammens should have held onto the ball. Instead it bounced toward Merino, who had only been on the pitch two minutes himself. The Arsenal player was first to the rebound and fired it in. Merino said it was not purely a coincidence, attributing his dramatic late success to "going out there with drive" and belief in himself to "contribute wherever you're needed."

"That's exactly what I did," he said. Merino said his team's run to a semi-final clash with France at the World Cup has so far been "less flashy" than Spain's victorious campaign at the European Championships two years ago. "It was a struggle today," he admitted. The win against Belgium sets up a tough test against France, who are the World Cup favorites, but who Spain beat 2-1 at the Euros.

"It's going to be a head-to-head battle. That's how semifinals always are. We're going into the match against France hungry and eager," he said. "It's an elite-level match, the highest level. We are two teams playing at the very top of our game. "We'll try to do our absolute best," he said.

"Regarding the fans, keep dreaming. I am a person who always dreams, and dreams can come true," he said at a pre-match press conference in Kansas City. "And if we want to fulfil our dreams, you need to work, you need to sweat, you need to give it 100 percent. "And sometimes you need to do something new. You really need to push your limits if you want to beat Argentina. And I'm convinced my team is ready." The first question of the media conference at Arrowhead Stadium, which also featured coach Murat Yakin, was unsurprisingly how Switzerland would stop Messi, who is the tournament's joint-leading scorer with eight goals.

"Tomorrow, on the pitch, we will perform as a unit," said Yakin. "We will try to play passes, press high against Argentina, who are the reigning champions. "Obviously, we will try to do the work on the pitch. We can talk a lot, but in the end, it has to really translate on the pitch. And we do have our solutions."

Xhaka admitted it was not possible to keep the marauding Messi quiet for the whole match but said his men would be "smart". "I don't know if we can stop him over 90 minutes," he said. "It is going to be difficult. "However, we have to be very smart. We'll have to be compact, close the gaps, not give him too many spaces. We will try, obviously, to play in position. When we have the ball, he won't be able to act as much."

The Swiss captain, 33, said the match would be one of the highlights of his career, which has included spells with Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen. Switzerland have reached the World Cup quarter-finals three times, but not since 1954, when they hosted the tournament. "After 72 years, to be able to be here with Switzerland and to play against a reigning champion, it just makes me very proud," said Xhaka.

"But I am not here to talk. I want to take the next steps. And we are very close to the end and I am yearning for it. "I am hungry and now we just need to show how much we really want it on the pitch. We are very well prepared and we need to showcase our mentality and I am sure that we can really bother Argentina." Yakin dismissed fears that Argentina had been favoured by referees at the tournament after a complaint was filed by Egypt following their defeat by the South Americans in the last 16.

But the Swiss coach said it was important to "hold your ground" against a tough and physical team. "Argentina are very smart," he said. "Every single duel, for example, is very strong. They really go in hard. There is a lot of passion. "And if you do not hold your ground, you won't win. And we are very well prepared."

Switzerland will again be without injured midfielder Johan Manzambi, who was outstanding during the group phase. The Freiburg player, reportedly close to a move to Premier League club Newcastle, did not feature in Switzerland's last-16 match against Colombia, which they won on penalties. "We tried everything that we could to get him back in peak form," said Yakin. "Unfortunately, he is not able to perform tomorrow."

His fans in Peru have gone as far as naming their children after him, with 468 bearing the 25-year-old's surname, according to the national identity registry. Another 91 infants carry the full name Erling Haaland, it said. "Different football stars serve as inspiration for Peruvians to register their children with these names," registry spokesperson Ivan Torres told Panamericana Television.

Most newborn Peruvians named after Haaland were registered in the weeks following the World Cup's kick-off, Torre said, with numbers soaring when Norway advanced to the quarter-finals. "Haaland is also Peruvian," he said. Football fever has inspired new parents in Peru in the past, with 3,402 people born in the country bearing the name Messi -- 292 of whom bear Argentine star Lionel Messi's full name.

Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has 1,185 Peruvian namesakes, while 1,241 are called Yamal after Spain's prized player Lamine Yamal. A whopping 33,809 are named after Brazil's Neymar.

Kane has once again been England's hero, dragging his teammates through an attritional last-16 meeting with Mexico at the Estadio Azteca that they won 3-2 despite having a man sent off. The Bayern Munich forward has scored six goals to fire the Three Lions to the quarter-finals. Haaland appears to have been enjoying himself ever since he touched down in the United States and began smashing in the seven goals that have carried Norway further than ever before.

Their run, which included eliminating Brazil, has been accompanied by their fans' joyous rowing celebration that has turned venues across the US into giant human Viking ships. "Every game has been the most important (in history) for Norwegian football, especially in the knockout rounds, so this is the third time it is the most important game," Norway coach Stale Solbakken said on Friday.

Kane described 25-year-old Haaland as "a beast" but insisted he and the Manchester City striker had contrasting styles. "I see myself as a different player, although I score the same goals," the England captain, 32, said on Friday. "I like to maybe touch the ball a little bit more, be involved with the play a little bit more, but also can play as maybe the out-and-out number nine.

"I don't think it's one to compare ourselves. I respect him a lot as a player and as a professional. Obviously, I'm hoping he has a quiet day tomorrow, but I think his overall performance is very good." England were boosted by the return to training on Friday of the influential trio of Declan Rice, Marc Guehi and Reece James, who have been dealing with illness and injury.

Coach Thomas Tuchel described their presence as "the best news" and said: "We took a big step in our last match, but it was only a step. "The next step is to win a quarter-final. The important thing is to look up at what is ahead of us." The contest in Miami's Hard Rzck Stadium is likely to be a sweaty affair played in temperatures forecast to rise above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Argentina made a smooth start to their bid to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.

But since they entered the knockout rounds, frailties have crept in as they were pushed to breaking point by first World Cup debutants Cape Verde and then Egypt. Lionel Messi, who turned 39 during the group phase, has again been the talisman for the South Americans, his genius repeatedly getting his team out of tight spots.

But there is just a suggestion that the Swiss, a well-organised unit marshalled by defensive general Granit Xhaka, could exploit any weariness and cause them problems at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. "They have very experienced players. They are strong. So it will be a tough opponent, that is for sure," Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said on Friday. Messi will be bidding to add to the 21 goals -- a new record -- he has scored across the six World Cups in which he has played.

On Friday, Spain struck late to beat Belgium 2-1 and move on to a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against France. The game in Los Angeles was decided by a goalkeeping error from Belgium's Senne Lammens, who spilled a shot, allowing Mikel Merino to pounce to make it 2-1 in the 88th minute.

European champions Spain, who earlier conceded their first goal in the entire tournament, will now face the swashbuckling French in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said the game would be "a final before the final", given the quality of both teams.

"The feeling of frustration is enormous," he acknowledged. "We had a squad strong enough to do more, and we didn't achieve it. I apologize and I will fight for our dream of returning to the top of the world," he added.

Vinicius, 25, scored four goals and provided one assist in the tournament. His message was accompanied by a black-and-white photograph of him lying on the grass, after Norway's win on Sunday.

The Selecao won the last of its five World Cup titles over two decades ago, in 2002. National teams coordinator Rodrigo Caetano has reaffirmed his confidence in the team's Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, despite the World Cup disappointment.

Bangladesh Swimming Federation president and Bangladesh Navy chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan will attend in the opening ceremony as the special guest. Around 550 swimmers set to compete in 100 events across five age categories, organized by BSF. The gold, silver, and bronze medalists will receive cash prize of Taka 3,000, Taka 2,000, and Taka 1,000 respectively.

First though Spain need to find goals against a Belgium team who started the World Cup slowly but caught fire as the tournament has gone on. The 4-1 demolition of the USA in the last round showed just how far the team coached by Rudi Garcia have come in just a few weeks. Spain meanwhile have not displayed the attacking flair of France but they are playing the possession-based football that carried them to the country's only World Cup triumph, in South Africa in 2010.

Lamine Yamal of Barcelona, who turns 19 next week, is Spain's standout attacker but he arrived in the United States after suffering a late-season injury and has seemed a peripheral figure at times, scoring just once in five games. Yamal, widely tipped to inherit the mantle of the world's greatest player from Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, could be due a goal.

"We know that the best version of him, the attacking Lamine, is something that we haven't quite seen yet in this World Cup. Not to the level that we're used to," said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente. In Yamal's absence, Mikel Oyarzabal has scored four times, including twice in the 3-0 defeat of Austria in the last 32 at SoFi. Spain have conceded just six shots on target in their five matches so far.

Belgium looked leaden and their stars ageing when they opened their group-stage account. But they showed their mettle in an exciting defeat of Senegal in the last 32, when Youri Tielemans dragged his team back from 2-0 down to a 3-2 victory after the introduction of Romelu Lukaku as an impact substitute. The Belgians then demolished the United States in the last 16, in a game overshadowed by President Donald Trump's intervention to get US striker Folarin Balogun's red card from the previous round cancelled.

That move fired up the Belgians, who gently mocked Trump with an on-field imitation of the president's YMCA dance. The World Cup is likely the last hurrah for the remainder of Belgium's so-called Golden Generation, including Lukaku, former Premier League player of the year Kevin De Bruyne and towering goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid.

Belgium are comfortable with their status of underdogs. Coach Garcia said: "Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it. "We think we can pull it off, and we're going to do everything we can to get to the semis." England's bid to return to the semi-finals after a last-eight exit four years ago hit another bump as centre-half Marc Guehi is now a doubt for Saturday's meeting with Norway with a hamstring strain.

The Manchester City defender will be assessed Friday, but with Jarell Quansah suspended for the quarter-final clash in Miami after being sent off against Mexico in the previous round, coach Thomas Tuchel finds himself with unwanted defensive headaches as he plots on how to stop Erling Haaland. On Thursday, France turned what was expected to be a tight quarter-final with Morocco into a clinical 2-0 win in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Mbappe scored his eighth goal of this World Cup and 20th overall before Ousmane Dembele completed the job. The France captain was substituted and applied an ice pack to his foot, but was quick to reassure France fans that it was nothing serious.

"Australia and India are united by our love and passion for sport," said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. "I am excited to expand cooperation with India on sport, which not only brings joy to Australians but boosts trade, tourism and investment." The match will be the cornerstone of a week-long festival called 'G'day Namaste to be held across India in December, featuring Australian cultural, business and sports events.

"I am confident that just like in sports, our partnership too will become a champion in every field," Modi said in a joint appearance with Albanese at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Commercial terms around the BBL match, such as ticket sales, have not been finalised. "We know they're incredibly passionate cricket fans all over India, but particularly in Chennai," Cricket Australia's BBL chief Alistair Dobson told reporters.

"Everyone we've spoken to has been really optimistic that we should expect a good crowd." The game will be the first BBL contest played outside Australia. "This is a genuinely historic moment for Perth Scorchers and for cricket in Western Australia," said West Australia cricket chief John Stephenson. "India is the heartland of global cricket, and bringing the Scorchers to that audience is an opportunity we have embraced wholeheartedly."

"It was a really difficult match for Morocco," he said, although he had to admit that "France deserved to win." Fans' hopes were sky-high for the 2026 tournament after Morocco stunned the footballing world by reaching the semi-finals four years ago in Qatar, led by world-class captain Achraf Hakimi of Paris Saint-Germain.

On that occasion they also lost 2-0. Having added outstanding young talent Ayyoub Bouaddi to that squad, and with exciting forward Ismael Saibari leading the attack, many believed Morocco could even topple France this time and progress to the last four again. Mustapha Garni, 24, said: "I really hoped we'd win and reach the semi-finals, but that's not how it turned out." Before the game, excitement was at fever pitch in the capital.

On a packed cafe terrace, a crowd waving Moroccan flags and wearing red and green scarves eagerly awaited kickoff and stood to sing the national anthem, just as the players did in the United States. The crowd erupted in cheers when goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved Mbappe's penalty in the 28th minute. Their joy was shortlived though -- on the hour mark, Mbappe curled in a shot that evaded Bounou as the ball flew into the net.

Silence descended on the cafe terrace in Rabat. Some fans looked stunned and others slumped in their chairs. The cheering resumed, though without the same enthusiasm -- and when Ousmane Dembele killed the game as a contest with France's second goal, the party was over. Ghizlane Elidrissi, 26, said she felt huge pride regardless. "They fought to the very end," she said. The fans have plenty to look forward to -- Morocco are one of the co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup, along with Spain and Portugal.

In four years time, "we hope to go to the final", said Mustapha Garni. "It's a dream that will always stay with us and, God willing, we will win the cup!" he added. 

"We know that the best version of him, the attacking Lamine, is something that we haven't quite seen yet in this World Cup. Not to the level that we're used to," said De la Fuente. The prodigiously gifted Yamal has just one goal and no assists at the tournament so far, having arrived in the United States still recovering from a late-season injury. But he has been a constant menace to opposing defenders attacking predominantly down Spain's right flank.

Following Spain's late 1-0 win over Portugal in the previous round, De la Fuente had praised Yamal's performance as "one of his best performances" and "a very important day for his development." Asked at Thursday's press conference to clarify those comments, De la Feunte suggested Yamal's intense duel with Nuno Mendes had forced the Portugal full-back to leave the field in the 55th minute. "We were facing a powerhouse of a rival, and the defender who was marking him ultimately had to do so much that he was injured," said De la Fuente.

At still just 18 years of age, Yamal has gained a lesson in "maturity" from the challenges he has faced at this World Cup so far, his coach said. "He doesn't need extra motivation. You actually sometimes have to calm his intensity. He's very motivated -- he wants to do so much," said De la Fuente. Spain has yet to concede at this World Cup, but will be coming up against a Belgium side that fired four goals past the United States on Monday.

Could Friday's quarter-final be the moment for Yamal to find the back of the net again? "He's going to perform on the attacking front -- that's very clear," said the manager. "He's got incredible potential. And, of course, this is yet to come in some respects."

"I think that is three consecutive semi-finals, so that's already a good thing. It seems logical and natural, but you still have to achieve it," France coach Didier Deschamps said. "Obviously, I have great players, otherwise we wouldn't get there, but it's good." Morocco had been tipped to pose a serious threat to France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final. But Deschamps' men were always in control against toothless opponents who failed to register a single shot on goal until the 83rd minute, when Azzedine Ounahi's long-range strike was parried away by France goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

France struggled to find an early breakthrough, and missed the opportunity to take the lead on 28 minutes when Mbappe had a penalty saved by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Mbappe had won the spot-kick after being brought down by Noussair Mazraoui but was forced to wait several minutes before being allowed to take the penalty after a protracted VAR check. Morocco managed to hold out to half-time but it was always only a matter of time before France's relentless pressure paid off. The breakthrough came on the hour mark, with Mbappe bending a brilliant right-foot shot past Bounou from the edge of the area.

Paris Saint-Germain star Dembele made the game safe in the 66th minute, striding forward menacingly from midfield before steering a low finish into the bottom corner. Mbappe, who was substituted and received treatment for a minor ankle knock, later played down France's favourites tag, insisting the team's bid to win a third World Cup was far from complete. "We are in the semi-finals and we are very pleased. There is still a long way to go and we are aware that what awaits is going to be even harder, but we are ready," Mbappe said.

- Referee chief hits back - Spain, who have not conceded a single goal so far, eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the last 16 and will fancy their chances of overcoming Belgium, who thrashed United States 4-1 to reach the last eight. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia sounded a defiant note on the eve of Friday's game, adamant that it was ill-advised to underestimate a Red Devils side that have gradually built momentum. "Everyone is already talking about us going home. But we think that we can do it," Garcia said. "We think we can pull it off, and we're going to do everything we can to get to the semis."

On the other side of the draw, holders Argentina face Switzerland in Kansas City on Saturday after staggering into the quarter-finals. The South Americans, aiming to become the first back-to-back champions since Brazil in 1962, advanced to the quarter-finals after an incredible escape against Egypt in the previous round, recovering from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. The victory saw a string of refereeing decisions go in Argentina's favour, prompting claims from Egypt coach Hossam Hassan that World Cup referees were unfairly favouring the South Americans due to "external" pressure. Those claims were shot down by FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina on Thursday.

"Nobody can question the integrity of the FIFA World Cup match officials," Collina said. "Nobody can claim that FIFA Refereeing can be influenced by anyone." The winner of the Argentina-Switzerland clash will take on either Norway or England, who clash in Miami on Saturday. England's defence faces the unenviable task of having to contain Norway's irrepressible striker Erling Haaland, who has been in blistering form on his team's run to the last eight. A relaxed Haaland said Thursday the pressure would be on England when the teams meet at the Hard Rock Stadium. "I think there's some clear favourites out there, England's one of them," Haaland told reporters. "I think all of you should put every single pressure on the English lads."

France, who have emerged as the outstanding team of the tournament after a series of dazzling attacking displays, face arguably their toughest test so far in the shape of African champions Morocco at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, outside Boston. Les Bleus have surged into the last eight in style, scoring 14 goals in five games -- seven of them from in-form captain Kylian Mbappe.

Mbappe is one of four star strikers who are leading the chase for the World Cup's Golden Boot as the tournament enters the home stretch. Argentina's Lionel Messi tops the scoring chart with eight, Mbappe and Norway's Erling Haaland have seven each and England's Harry Kane has six.

Thursday's opening quarter-final is a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar, won 2-0 by France, who would go on to lose in the final against Argentina. Morocco meanwhile have looked impressive en route to the last eight, easing through the group phase before battling past the Netherlands in the last 32 and swatting aside Canada in the round of 16 last weekend.

The Atlas Lions will threaten France with a mix of technical quality, physicality and tactical nous under the guidance of coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who masterminded Morocco's shock victory in the under-20 World Cup last year. The winner will advance to a semi-final showdown against the victor of Friday's tie in Los Angeles between European champions Spain and Belgium.

The Spaniards eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the last 16 on Monday to advance with a clinical 1-0 victory. While La Roja haven't hit the dizzying attacking heights of France, they will fancy their chances of navigating a Belgium side who have slowly built momentum over the course of the tournament. Belgium struggled through the group phase with lacklustre draws in their first two matches before routing New Zealand 5-1 to secure their place in the knockout rounds.

They came back from the dead in the last 32 to beat Senegal 3-2, when they had trailed 2-0 with four minutes to go, before dismantling the United States 4-1 with arguably their best display of the tournament in Seattle on Monday. On the other side of the draw, holders Argentina face Switzerland in Kansas City on Saturday after staggering into the quarter-finals. The South Americans, aiming to become the first back-to-back champions since Brazil in 1962, were given an almighty scare by Cape Verde in the last 32 before winning 3-2 in extra-time.

On Tuesday, Messi inspired an incredible Houdini act in a jaw-dropping 3-2 defeat of Egypt in Atlanta, when the reigning champions recovered from 2-0 down with 11 minutes of normal time remaining to snatch victory. Messi was reduced to tears of relief after that roller coaster victory. "We wanted to stay in the tournament," the Argentina captain said afterwards.

"We didn't want today to be the end, we didn't want to go home." The winner of Argentina-Switzerland will face either Norway or England in the semi-finals in Atlanta next week. England advanced to the last eight on Sunday with a pulsating 3-2 defeat of Mexico in the Azteca Stadium, winning an extraordinary, drama-filled contest which has given the Three Lions renewed belief in their bid to win a first major title since 1966.

England's talismanic midfield star Jude Bellingham says the victory reinforced his belief that the Three Lions can claim the ultimate prize -- and wants his team-mates to feel the same. "I'm convinced of it and I hope that a win like this can give them that same conviction that they're top players and we shouldn't fear anyone," Bellingham said. Blocking England's path is a formidable Norway side spearheaded by the irrepressible Haaland, who scored both goals in Sunday's last 16 win over Brazil.

"We have to study England but obviously we have seen them in their previous games in the tournament and they will be a very strong opponent, but hopefully it will be a very even and tight game," Norway coach Stale Solbakken said.

France, who have emerged as the outstanding team of the tournament after a series of dazzling attacking displays, face arguably their toughest test so far in the shape of African champions Morocco at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, outside Boston. Les Bleus have surged into the last eight in style, scoring 14 goals in five games -- seven of them from in-form captain Kylian Mbappe.

Mbappe is one of four star strikers who are leading the chase for the World Cup's Golden Boot as the tournament enters the home stretch. Argentina's Lionel Messi tops the scoring chart with eight, Mbappe and Norway's Erling Haaland have seven each and England's Harry Kane has six. Thursday's opening quarter-final is a repeat of the 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar, won 2-0 by France, who would go on to lose in the final against Argentina.

Morocco meanwhile have looked impressive en route to the last eight, easing through the group phase before battling past the Netherlands in the last 32 and swatting aside Canada in the round of 16 last weekend. The Atlas Lions will threaten France with a mix of technical quality, physicality and tactical nous under the guidance of coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who masterminded Morocco's shock victory in the under-20 World Cup last year.

The winner will advance to a semi-final showdown against the victor of Friday's tie in Los Angeles between European champions Spain and Belgium. The Spaniards eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the last 16 on Monday to advance with a clinical 1-0 victory. While La Roja haven't hit the dizzying attacking heights of France, they will fancy their chances of navigating a Belgium side who have slowly built momentum over the course of the tournament. Belgium struggled through the group phase with lacklustre draws in their first two matches before routing New Zealand 5-1 to secure their place in the knockout rounds.

They came back from the dead in the last 32 to beat Senegal 3-2, when they had trailed 2-0 with four minutes to go, before dismantling the United States 4-1 with arguably their best display of the tournament in Seattle on Monday. On the other side of the draw, holders Argentina face Switzerland in Kansas City on Saturday after staggering into the quarter-finals.

The South Americans, aiming to become the first back-to-back champions since Brazil in 1962, were given an almighty scare by Cape Verde in the last 32 before winning 3-2 in extra-time. On Tuesday, Messi inspired an incredible Houdini act in a jaw-dropping 3-2 defeat of Egypt in Atlanta, when the reigning champions recovered from 2-0 down with 11 minutes of normal time remaining to snatch victory. Messi was reduced to tears of relief after that roller coaster victory.

"We wanted to stay in the tournament," the Argentina captain said afterwards. "We didn't want today to be the end, we didn't want to go home." The winner of Argentina-Switzerland will face either Norway or England in the semi-finals in Atlanta next week. England advanced to the last eight on Sunday with a pulsating 3-2 defeat of Mexico in the Azteca Stadium, winning an extraordinary, drama-filled contest which has given the Three Lions renewed belief in their bid to win a first major title since 1966.

England's talismanic midfield star Jude Bellingham says the victory reinforced his belief that the Three Lions can claim the ultimate prize -- and wants his team-mates to feel the same. "I'm convinced of it and I hope that a win like this can give them that same conviction that they're top players and we shouldn't fear anyone," Bellingham said. Blocking England's path is a formidable Norway side spearheaded by the irrepressible Haaland, who scored both goals in Sunday's last 16 win over Brazil.

"We have to study England but obviously we have seen them in their previous games in the tournament and they will be a very strong opponent, but hopefully it will be a very even and tight game," Norway coach Stale Solbakken said.

Their annual review of football finance found losses among English top-flight sides rose from £135 million ($181 million) in the 2023/24 season to £948 million ($1.3 billion) in 2024-25.

Deloitte attributed the rise to transfer spending and the absence of significant profits from one-off sales. Net debt of Premier League clubs was up to £3.6 billion in 2024/25, compared to £3.5 billion the season before, Deloitte found.

Meanwhile. the combined pre-tax losses of clubs in English football's second-tier Championship rose 12 percent to £355 million, with only three teams reporting a pre-tax profit in 2024/25, Deloitte found.

Tim Bridge, the lead partner in the Deloitte Sports Business Group, said: "The cumulative financial position and worsening club losses across all three English Football League divisions (the three tiers below the Premier League) underline a continuing trend; one where external funding is now critical to liquidity in the vast majority of cases."

Talks over a new agreement to created a more equitable split of television revenue between the Premier League and the EFL have foundered since 2024, although the recently-established Independent Football Regulator has the power to impose a settlement if a deal cannot be agreed.

Meanwhile, Deloitte found the European football market grew six percent overall to 40.2billion euros (£34.3 billion) in 2024/25 -- the first season featuring UEFA's newly-expanded men's club competitions.

But Bridge insisted adding yet more fixtures to an already congested calendar was unlikely to yield greater financial rewards.

"The expansion of UEFA and FIFA competitions has delivered financial benefits across Europe's 'big five' leagues, but football cannot rely on simply adding more content to deliver sustainable growth," he said.

The Argentina captain saw a first-half penalty saved as Egypt stormed into a 2-0 lead. But Messi also led the late fightback. His cross teed up Cristian Romero to halve the arrears 11 minutes from time before the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner smashed in the equaliser.

Enzo Fernandez completed the comeback in stoppage time to set up a quarter-final clash against Colombia or Switzerland. "Turning a match around like that -- coming back from 2-0 down -- it wasn't easy, especially given how this World Cup is playing out and the fact that no one is just rolling over," added Messi. "It was a moment of pure happiness and relief; we wanted to stay in the tournament. We didn't want today to be the end, we didn't want to go home."

Messi was thrown into the air by his team-mates in celebration after netting his 21st World Cup goal and eighth of this tournament to edge back in front of the battle for the Golden Boot. However, he highlighted Romero's goal as the key moment the dynamic of the match changed. "Today was yet another display of character, coming back from a goal down isn't easy. That was a really tough blow for everyone.

"Fortunately, we managed to get that goal. That was the moment, I think, when everyone inside felt it and believed it was possible, that we were going to do it. "We were lucky enough to equalise and then win it in 90 minutes. We went all the way, it was just incredible what this group achieved."

Similarly, he left Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 as their all-time top scorer but without winning the Champions League. It might not entirely be a coincidence that they have gone on to be champions of Europe two years running since his departure. But it is his relationship with the World Cup that has really shaped Mbappe, and he has looked like a man on a mission over the last month in the United States.

Mbappe has so far netted seven goals in his team's five games before Thursday's quarter-final against Morocco at the Gillette Stadium near Boston. The breakthrough star in the France team that won the 2018 World Cup, and scorer of a hat-trick in the epic 2022 final defeat by Argentina, Mbappe recently became his country's all-time top scorer. He is currently chasing down Lionel Messi in his attempts to win the golden boot at this World Cup, and become the tournament's all-time leading marksman. But he keeps insisting those personal goals are not his priority.

"I know people talk about the stats. I watch the TV too. But my only focus is on helping the team and getting us back here on July 19," he said after the 3-0 win over Sweden in the last 32 at the MetLife Stadium, the venue for the final. Mbappe also scored the winner against Paraguay in the last 16 in Philadelphia, a game in which he caught the eye for his attitude in the face of opposition aggression.

He was a regular target of Paraguayan provocation but stood up to it. At the end of a bad-tempered match, he refused to shake the hand of Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill as he led his teammates to celebrate with the French fans. When he was racially abused by a Paraguayan politician online after that game, he responded, calling Celeste Amarilla "despicable" and "unworthy" of her position.

Mbappe, who was defended by the French President, Emmanuel Macron, and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, will not be fazed by that as he remains focused purely on World Cup glory. "You make him out to be a dictator but people have an image of Kylian which is really not the reality," coach Didier Deschamps said.

"He is an extraordinary player and when he talks he does so in the name of the whole team." There were doubts as to whether Deschamps had made the right decision when he gave Mbappe the armband in March 2023, following the retirement of Hugo Lloris. Antoine Griezmann was the other candidate and a more senior player, but Deschamps felt Mbappe could handle the responsibility.

Euro 2024 did not go entirely to plan, with Mbappe breaking his nose in the team's opening game. He scored only one goal, from a penalty, and France never performed to their best despite reaching the semi-finals. His commitment to the international cause was called into question in the months after that tournament, as Deschamps left Mbappe out of a couple of squads just as he was settling into life in Madrid. But he came back with a bang as the World Cup approached, scoring eight goals in seven international appearances between June last year and this March.

He has a close relationship with Deschamps, as shown when he celebrated his first goal against Sweden by running across to embrace the coach whose mother died only a few days earlier. "He is on a mission and has been since the first day," said Deschamps, who is counting on Mbappe to lead France to a third straight World Cup final before the coach steps down after 14 years at the helm. 

Zico did then put Egyptian on the brink of a place in the last eight for the first time by doubling their lead. However, the defending champions hit back as Cristian Romero reduced the arrears before Lionel Messi, who had a first-half penalty saved, smashed in the equaliser with his eighth goal of the tournament. The controversy did not end there, though, as in the build-up to Argentina's winner scored by Enzo Fernandez, Egypt believe they should have instead been awarded a penalty for a pull by Alexis Mac Allister on Hamdy Fathy.

"We haven't seen respect or fair play. There has not been respect or fair play," Hassan said. "A penalty was ruled out, was not even checked by VAR. A second goal was remarkably disallowed. There has not even been a VAR check when we have all seen the image of the (shirt) being pulled back." Hassan said he would not watch any more matches of the tournament, such was the injustice he felt.

"I am not going to continue following the matches of this World Cup, watching the matches of this World Cup," he added. "This is my own way of speaking up." After Yasser Ibrahim's header put Egypt in front, Argentina were awarded a penalty for a trip on Nicolas Tagliafico.

Messi's problems with World Cup penalties continued as his effort was saved by Mostafa Shobeir. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has now failed to score four of his eight non-shootout spot-kicks at the World Cup, including two misses at this tournament. Hassan speculated that the officials had been put under pressure to keep one of the biggest names in the competition.

"Perhaps they wanted to keep the world champions in the competition. Perhaps they wanted Messi to stay in the running," he told BeIn Sports. "In football, there are sometimes external factors that go beyond the technical aspects. The world champions received support at every level." Hassan also complained about the scheduling of the match for a noon kick-off (1600GMT), just four days after both sides had won their round of 32 matches. "Whoever schedules those matches has never played football. You never schedule a game for 12pm. At noon you go for a walk or to eat brunch, you do not go to play football.

"When are the players supposed to eat? At 7.30am? "There have been a lot of things to be questioned on and off the pitch." 

reach the quarter-finals.

The holders looked down and out when goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, either side of Messi having a penalty saved, put the Pharaohs in sight of a historic victory in Atlanta.

However, Cristian Romero's header sparked the comeback as Argentina struck three times in the final 11 minutes plus stoppage time.

Messi smashed home the equaliser to score for a ninth consecutive World Cup game and retake the lead for the Golden Boot with eight this tournament.

Enzo Fernandez completed the turnaround with a superb header two minutes into stoppage time.

At the end, Messi shed tears of joy as he embraced his teammates.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was almost too choked up to speak afterwards, saying: "I'm really emotional right now. What a group of players, man."

Egypt were left furious after a number of controversial calls went against them, including adisallowed goal early in the second half, and a member of their coaching staff was red-carded in the

aftermath of the winning goal.

But despite a second almighty scare against African opposition, Argentina will face either Colombia orSwitzerland in the last eight on Saturday.

Scaloni attempted to refresh a side that looked dead on their feet in the closing stages of a 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the last 32 on Friday.

Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez came in from the team that started in Miami, but Argentina got off to another slow start.

Marwan Attia's deep cross to the back post was powered home by Yasser.

Argentina had the chance to level five minutes later when Tagliafico was wiped out by Haissem Hassan inside the box.

However, there was another chapter to Messi's misery from the penalty spot at World Cups.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or's strike was tentative and Mostafa Shobeir flew to his left to save, meaning Messi has now missed four of his eight non-shootout penalties at World Cups. He also became

the first player to miss two in a single tournament, having also failed to hit the target against Austria in the group stages.

The penalty save was just the start of Shobeir's inspired afternoon.

Alexis Mac Allster's powerful header from point-blank range was next to be parried by the Al Ahly stopper.

Shobeir then produced one of the saves of the tournament to prevent Alvarez's shot finding the bottom corner.

Egypt thought they had doubled their lead on the hour mark after a brilliant counter-attack.

Mohamed Salah played in Mostafa Ziko, who dinked the ball perfectly over the onrushing Emi Martinez.

However, Egyptian celebrations were cut short by a hugely controversial VAR intervention for a foul on Lisandro Martinez, just outside the Egypt box, at the start of the build-up to the goal.

The decision finally fired up the majority Argentine crowd, but they were silenced once more moments later by another blistering Egyptian break.

Salah again led the charge before feeding Hassan and his cross was swept in by Zico.

Argentina looked like a beaten side with Messi among those who head was bowed during the second-half drinks break.

Yet Romero's header -- that Shoubir just failed to keep out -- sparked a remarkable revival as the defending champions hauled themselves off the canvas.

Moments later a dazzling run by Messi teed up Lautaro Martinez, who headed just wide and Messi was to have his moment of redemption seven minutes from time.

Gonzalo Montiel fed the ball back for his captain to strike sweetly on the half volley.

Shoubir again got a touch but couldn't get it out as the ball cannonned in off the bar for Messi's 21st World Cup goal.

Then Fernandez's bullet header from Lautaro Martinez's cross completed the fightback and Argentina's relief was on full display after the final whistle.

Colombia's Davinson Sanchez hit the bar in a nerve-wracking shootout but Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji ballooned his effort over, meaning it was all square again. Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel then regained the initiative for his team, brilliantly saving Cucho Hernandez's effort. After two more successful kicks, Ruben Vargas stepped up to take the decisive penalty and made no mistake.

It is the first time Switzerland have reached the last eight of the World Cup since they hosted the tournament in 1954. Victorious captain Granit Xhaka said the current generation of players was a "special one". "We, the more experienced players, are being pushed by the younger ones, and at the same time we have to lead by example every single day and every single game," Xhaka told Swiss broadcaster SRF.

"Of course, we try to pass on our experience, but above all the mentality that, even as a small nation, anything is possible at this level, in elite football. "From the coaching staff to the last player, we can all be proud of what we've achieved." Colombia, once again backed by thousands of passionate fans, had conceded just once in their four games before Tuesday's match and the Swiss had also proved difficult to break down.

The first action of note came in the 21st minute when Kobel was forced into a flying save to keep out Gustavo Puerta's curling effort from the edge of the penalty area. Murat Yakin's Switzerland stepped up a gear immediately after the first hydration break, with Camilo Vargas beating away a shot from Fabian Rieder before denying Dan Ndoye. But the match was goalless at half-time, with two well-matched teams struggling for inspiration.

The Swiss started the second half on the front foot but Colombia also had their moments, with Luis Suarez lashing wastefully wide. Both coaches made multiple changes in the second half but again struggled to create meaningful openings, with Colombia's star winger Luis Diaz kept quiet. Ndoye flashed a shot across goal in stoppage time but nobody was able to get on the end of it and the match was 0-0 at the end of normal time.

The game belatedly burst into life in the first period of extra time. Colombia defender Jhon Lucumi headed against the bar from a corner and Kobel kept out a fierce effort from Jaminton Campaz as the South Americans upped the tempo. At the other end, Vargas dived to his left to beat away an effort from substitute Zeki Amdouni. Campaz missed a glorious chance to win the game with five minutes left.

With nothing to separate the teams, the game went to penalties and the European team kept their nerve. "I think this national team was destined for better things," Colombia forward Suarez told DSports. "Let's hope this is a major turning point, because what this team showed at this World Cup has to be viewed in a positive light," he added. Switzerland will face Argentina in Kansas City on Saturday after Lionel Messi's team earlier beat Egypt 3-2 in a wild game in Atlanta.

They will hope to resume normal service against Egypt, who have never been beyond the round of 16 on football's biggest stage. "We are on the alert just like we were before the match against Cape Verde," said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni. "Egypt is also a good rival. "It's a very good team. They have important players and a coach that has been working with them for a while now. They play good football and always make it difficult for their rivals.

"Salah is a great player -- it will be a pleasure to face him. Our team knows how to face these great players and we always work hard for it." Scaloni confirmed Messi, 39, is fit to start despite playing the full 120 minutes last week against Cape Verde. Messi, France star Kylian Mbappe and Norway's Erling Haaland all have seven goals in the race for the Golden Boot, with the Frenchman leading the way due to his two assists.

Messi and Mbappe are also locked in a battle for the title of leading goalscorer in World Cup history, with the Argentine just one goal ahead, on 20. The South Americans know they will need to up their game against unbeaten Egypt, who eliminated Australia on penalties in the last 32. Salah, currently without a club after leaving Liverpool, has scored just once in four matches so far.

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said he had been preparing his players "regardless of the colour of the opponent's shirt, or what name they have, and what ranking they have". "This is a World Cup, a great opportunity to prove ourselves and that we belong here," he said.

- Dangerous Diaz -

Switzerland and Colombia meet in Vancouver in another clash between two unbeaten teams. The South Americans, supported by hordes of passionate yellow-clad fans, have been tipped as dark horses for the tournament. Nestor Lorenzo's men have conceded just one goal so far and boast the attacking prowess of Luis Diaz and 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner James Rodriguez.

Switzerland have not reached the quarter-finals since 1954, when they hosted the tournament, but impressed in a 2-0 win against Algeria in the last 32. All four teams will be vying to join the heavyweight line-up for the last eight so far -- France, Morocco, Norway, England, Spain and Belgium.

Spain ended Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup dream on Monday, beating Portugal 1-0 while Belgium crushed the United States 4-1. Defeat for Mauricio Pochettino's men means none of the host nations remain in the 2026 tournament following the earlier exits of Canada and Mexico. The build-up to the game in Seattle was overshadowed by controversy after forward Folarin Balogun was cleared to play despite being sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina last week. It emerged that the bombshell ruling followed a personal call by President Donald Trump to FIFA chief Gianni Infantino urging him to review Balogun's punishment. 

FIFA said the decision was not influenced by Trump, but the ensuing row dominated the final days of the US World Cup campaign, with Pochettino obliged to defend Balogun's eligibility for a game that ended with a crushing 4-1 loss in Seattle. "I am so frustrated and so disappointed with the people who are supposed to understand this situation," said Pochettino, accusing critics of "mixing" politics with FIFA's decision.

"I think it didn't affect our performance... it's not an excuse, and we cannot put excuses, it wasn't our day. "But in a personal way... (what) is the point? To insult or to receive a lot of bad message or threats, if my position is 'I am the head coach, it's a rule... that the player can be available'?" "My position was to train the team, and if you have available Balogun, because the disciplinary (committee) of FIFA allowed to for you to have the player, it's not a problem," said Pochettino.

"In a personal way I feel so disappointed with too many people." Balogun, the top US scorer of the tournament with three goals, started the game against Belgium but was not able to make a significant mark. The US looked a shadow of the team that had made a bright start to the tournament on home soil, inflaming the hopes of the American public for a deep run into the World Cup. "It was a very bad day. It wasn't our day, in a collective and individual way," said Pochettino.

"And we need to accept that sometimes this type of thing happens, but in a tournament like a World Cup, when that happens, you have not another chance." Pochettino was non-committal on whether he would continue in the US national team role, saying he would first need to rest and then have conversations with federation officials. He has been offered an extended contract with the US, but the former Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain head coach has also been linked with a possible return to European club football.

"If there is someone who has not felt the suffering of the Palestinian people then he or she has no humanity," Hassan said in a lengthy address to a question on the subject at his pre-match press conference in Atlanta. "I would like to say this is a shame on us. A shame on the entire world, not just the Arab world, a shame on everyone and a shame on first of all decision makers who leave human beings behind."

Hassan's answer was greeted by applause for many of the journalists present at the press conference. Egypt's all-time top goalscorer went on to call for FIFA and players to take a more active stance for the Palestinian people. "My message would be to use football as soft power," he added. "I urge all of you, the media, all athletes worldwide, regardless of their identities maybe we can convey a collective message.

"That is as follows: 'let the Palestinian people be, let them exist, let them live a life of their own'. This is normal." Israel's recent military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, according to the territory's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations. Earlier, a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023 resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. They also took 251 hostages to Gaza.

"The remarks made by Senator Celeste Amarilla, directed at the captain of the French national team, Kylian Mbappe, are contrary to the values and principles that inspire peaceful coexistence and respect for human dignity, which our country promotes," Paraguay's foreign ministry said in a statement.

"They in no way represent the position of the government of the Republic of Paraguay or the Paraguayan people," the ministry added. The remarks, which followed the bad-tempered last-32 game in Philadelphia, sparked uproar in France. Mbappe joined in the chorus of condemnation from the French government and opposition. Writing on X, he said: "Mrs Celeste Amarilla, you are a despicable woman and not worthy of your position. "You do not represent Paraguay, the country that has sweated passion and honour throughout the competition."

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the "racist attacks" directed at Mbappe. "The President of the Republic stands with Kylian Mbappe and the French team in the face of the racist attacks directed at the Bleus' captain," the Elysee Palace said. Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, world football's governing body, also condemned Amarilla. "All of football and society stand in solidarity with the France captain -- we need to fight racism and defeat it all together," Infantino wrote in a statement on Instagram.

"We told ourselves we needed to do our talking on the pitch. That's what we did today. I'm very proud of the team," the Aston Villa midfielder told Belgium's RTBF broadcaster. Balogun was named in the United States line-up on Monday after FIFA suspended his one-match ban for a sending off in the last 32, but he made little impact in the match. The shock FIFA decision came after an intervention by US President Donald Trump in a decision which drew condemnation across the football world.

Tielemans' teammates echoed their captain's words. "There was a sense of injustice within the squad, and we were determined to respond on the field," said Nicolas Raskin. Dodi Lukebakio said the Belgian team "didn't understand really why he was allowed to play, because he got the red card," but said they had been focused on performing. "That's what we did today. So we are very happy, very proud, and what is all around us is not our problem." Belgium coach Rudi Garcia had been among the outspoken critics of FIFA's decision, telling reporters before the game that the ruling seemed like a prank from "April Fool's Day."

But he struck a more conciliatory note in his post-game press conference, insisting that extra motivation from the Balogun affair "wasn't needed or necessary." "We told (our players) about what was happening. The group is very mature. We have leaders to help us go through that. I told them that mattered the most was us," he said. Garcia also expressed his appreciation that Balogun had made an effort to speak with him directly after the game.

"He came to talk to me. I really like that. It's not his fault, he's not the one to blame, and that's what I told him," said Garcia. "I really appreciate the intention that he came to see me." Overshadowed by the controversy, Monday's game turned out to be a one-sided affair, with the US rarely threatening Belgium other than a deflected Malik Tillman free kick. But Garcia praised his vanquished opponents for "a great World Cup, regardless of this last game."

"What really mattered to us is our game plan... The US team is dynamic and full of energy," said the coach. "We played with real grit," added Tielemans. "We wanted to get off to a good start -- something we'd been missing earlier in the tournament. "We knew that if we put them under pressure, they'd make mistakes."

Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, Hans Vanaken punished a goalkeeping howler, and substitute Romelu Lukaku added a fourth to settle a last-16 clash that had been overshadowed by the pre-match uproar surrounding US striker Folarin Balogun.

Balogun, named in US coach Mauricio Pochettino's starting line-up after FIFA suspended a one-game ban following lobbying by US President Donald Trump, was largely anonymous throughout Monday's knockout tie at Seattle's Lumen Field.

Instead, a rampant Belgium ruthlessly dismantled the USA's hopes of reaching a first World Cup quarter-final in 24 years, in a bitterly disappointing end to a campaign that had captivated the host nation.

Belgium captain Youri Tielemans said the furore over Balogun had motivated his team-mates.

"Let's be honest: we held a meeting when we heard the news," Tielemans said.

"We told ourselves we needed to do our talking on the pitch. That's what we did today. I'm very proud of the team," the Aston Villa midfielder told Belgium's RTBF broadcaster.

US coach Pochettino said his team had not turned up on the day.

"Today we were not the same team that we have been during the tournament," Pochettino said. "It was a very bad day -- it wasn't our day in a collective and individual way."

De Ketelaere fired Belgium ahead after nine minutes, and although Malik Tillman's deflected free-kick leveled it in the 31st-minute, the US fightback was shortlived.

De Ketelaere headed Belgium back in front in the 33rd minute, and Vanaken made it 3-1 in the 57th minute after a dreadful blunder by US goalkeeper Matt Freese, who was dispossessed after charging out of his penalty area to clear.

Veteran striker Lukaku piled on the misery with a fourth in stoppage time.

The defeat capped a tumultuous 24 hours for the World Cup co-hosts, who were lifted by FIFA's shock reprieve of Balogun on Sunday -- a decision which brought widespread condemnation across the football world.

Belgium football chiefs had challenged Balogun's eligibility for the game earlier on Monday but saw their appeal dismissed out of hand by FIFA.

"There was a sense of injustice within the squad," Belgium's Nicolas Raskin said. "We were determined to respond on the field."

- Sad farewell -

The Belgians advance to a quarter-final meeting with Spain in Los Angeles on Friday.

The Spaniards booked their place in that game with a 1-0 victory over Portugal in the final World Cup match of Cristiano Ronaldo's career.

Spanish substitute Mikel Merino coolly slotted the winner in the first minute of stoppage time to seal victory in a dour contest between the Iberian football rivals at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The defeat marked a sad farewell to the World Cup for Portugal captain Ronaldo, the 41-year-old superstar playing in his sixth edition of the tournament.

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid star Ronaldo, who has struggled to reproduce his best form during a challenging campaign in the United States, had long dreamed of adding a World Cup winners medal to his collection of honours amassed over a career that has straddled three decades.

But the striker was rarely more than a peripheral figure in a performance that saw Portugal muster just two shots on target, compared to Spain's six.

Ronaldo said afterwards he would take time to consider his future following the defeat.

"It was my last World Cup, yes, but I'll have time to think about the rest, to be with my family, not make rash decisions, and just get on with life," Ronaldo said.

"That's football, that's the life of a footballer. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and you have to move on."

European champions Spain struggled to break down the Portuguese, but finally took the lead in stoppage time, Merino latching on to a through ball from a quick free kick and prodding a low finish past Diogo Costa.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was satisfied with the performance.

"It was a fantastic match -- a final played early -- and, inevitably, we had to sweat it out until the very end," de la Fuente said. "We put in a complete performance."

Merino broke the deadlock in the first minute of time added on at the AT&T Stadium outside Dallas to send the Spaniards into a last-eight clash against either Belgium or the United States in Los Angeles on Friday.

But Belgium's XI had a few surprises of its own, with Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku among the heavyweights benched. And coach Rudi Garcia's gambit proved inspired, with De Ketelaere grabbing an early goal to puncture the feelgood vibes in Seattle. Malik Tillman grabbed one back from a free kick, but De Ketelaere swiftly restored Belgium's lead. A catastrophic piece of goalkeeping by Matt Freese and a late Romelu Lukaku goal left the Americans dead and buried.

FIFA's move to suspend Balogun's ban after he was sent off in the previous round against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been slammed by football fans, pundits and players around the world, but there were no such misgivings among the Seattle crowd. A colossal roar greeted the stadium announcement of Balogun's name in the starting XI, vastly dwarfing the cheers even for US talisman Christian Pulisic.

The "USA" thunderclap then echoed around the stadium, utterly drowning out a small corner of chanting Belgium fans in the opening minutes. But the American party was swiftly silenced. The majority of 67,000 fans fell silent in the ninth minute as De Ketelaere scored, easily tapping home from close range after Nicolas Raskin's cross evaded some lax defending. It was the first time the Americans had conceded the opener all World Cup. With the atmosphere deflated, no immediate fightback was visible on the pitch either. The midfield was outgunned and the defense looked nervous.

On the half-hour mark, Balogun drew a foul on the edge of the area and whipped the crowd back to life. He waved his arms frantically as Malik Tillman -- fresh from scoring a free kick against Bosnia -- lined up the ball. Tillman's shot deflected off the Belgian wall and span into the net, and the stadium shook.

But the joy was again short-lived. In the 33rd minute, De Ketelaere leapt up to meet Leandro Trossard's cross and comfortably out-jumped an off-balance Tim Ream to score his second. The US inched back into the game as the first half closed out, with Balogun blasting over from a long Tillman throw, then narrowly failing to catch a long ball, again from the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder. US coach Mauricio Pochettino switched formation at half-time, sending Gio Reyna into the number 10 role and pushing Weston McKennie out to the right. The Americans resumed play with more intensity, pushing higher up the pitch.

But self-inflicted disaster struck in the 57th minute. Freese came out to collect a Belgium long ball, turned to evade the charging De Ketelaere, but then hesitated with his pass. De Ketelaere jabbed the ball to Hans Vanaken, who made no mistake with an open goal from long range. Pulisic limped off with an injury minutes later, and with him went the US dreams of reaching a first World Cup quarter-final since 2002.

His replacement, Sebastian Berhalter, flashed an ambitious shot narrowly wide in the 79th minute, and Balogun had a close-range effort saved soon after. But Chris Richards handed the ball to Lukaku in stoppage time, and the veteran striker did not hestitate to seal the rout.

Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban. Trump called FIFA chief Gianni Infantino asking him to review Balogun's punishment, two sources familiar with the matter told AFP. World football's governing body said Sunday the ban will now be suspended for a year, in a stunning move for which no specific explanation was offered.

"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. The US team welcomed the decision, which coach Mauricio Pochettino called "fair", but it sparked outrage from Belgium and other teams. The Royal Belgian Football Association said it was "astonished" and stressed it was "investigating all potential options".

England coach Thomas Tuchel, asked about the Balogun case after having one of his own players sent off in the nerve-jangling 3-2 win against Mexico on Saturday, said: "Where does this start and end now? Can we overturn it? "Where to draw the line is the question I ask. Where does this end now? It's my question, I don't have an answer." The stakes in Monday's game are huge for the co-hosts. Playing on home soil, a strong US start to the tournament has raised expectations to fever-pitch levels among the American public.

Mauricio Pochettino's side are targeting a historic run to at least the quarter-finals, which they have not reached since 2002. In the first game Monday, European champions Spain face neighbours Portugal in Dallas for a place in the last eight. On Sunday, Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo came out fighting against critics he said had been "trying to kill me for the past 23 years".

Ronaldo, 41, admitted he was not the player he used to be, but said "I am not doing too bad", pointing to the three goals he has scored at the tournament -- two against Uzbekistan in a 5-0 thrashing in the group phase and a penalty in the 2-1 win over Croatia in the last 32. Relishing taking on journalists eager to ask about his future and the harsh spotlight on him, Ronaldo told reporters: "It's been like this since I was 18, it is not going to change.

"I always put body and soul trying to get our goals -- playing or not playing, I will always have an important role to play." Spain started this World Cup sluggishly but found their form in breezing past Austria 3-0 in the last 32 and their own superstar, 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, is ready to showcase his precocious talents, coach Luis de la Fuente said.

"He loves these kinds of games," de la Fuente said. "He likes to be the focus, he likes the responsibility, he likes to take the initiative." England's victory in the Azteca on Sunday sees them move on to a quarter-final against Norway next Saturday, after Erling Haaland produced two stunning goals to dump Brazil out of the tournament with a 2-1 win. 

Born just weeks after Norway's last major tournament appearance ended at Euro 2000, Haaland is now driving his country towards unprecedented heights on the biggest stage. "I think the way we played today showed that Norway is a fantastic football team," said Haaland. "We're actually one of the better teams in Europe and the world because what we've been doing it amazing and it took 28 years, it took some time.

"I'm 25 years old, so you can't really blame me for that. It's unbelievable. I'm proud of my country and I'm proud of everyone." Manchester City striker Haaland has won the Premier League's Golden Boot in three of the past four seasons. His goalscoring record for Norway is simply astonishing, but perhaps even more striking is the way he has inspired the nation to achievements once thought beyond their reach. "I dreamed of playing in the World Cup with Norway and taking them to the World Cup, but I never expected to win against Brazil, let's be honest," said Haaland.

"I thought it was not possible to do some things, but I guess I'm wrong." Haaland began the tournament with a brace in a 4-1 win over Iraq and struck two more goals as a 3-2 victory over Senegal booked Norway's spot in the knockout phase. Solbakken's decision to rest Haaland in the loss to France as part of sweeping changes now looks a masterstroke, with Norway now not only meeting expectations at this World Cup but exceeding them.

- 'Changing the nation' -

Inevitably, it was Haaland who struck the late winner to see off Ivory Coast in the last 32 before delivering the same punishment to Brazil. "I think we are changing the nation," said Haaland. "I never dreamed of this. I mean it's a bit surreal." Haaland's seven goals in just four matches place him level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe at the top of the tournament's scoring charts.

The numbers are extraordinary: 62 goals in 54 caps, and a scoring streak that has seen him find the net in each of Norway's last 14 competitive fixtures, striking 27 times during that run. "Haaland is the world's best goalscorer," said Solbakken, in what is becoming a familiar refrain. "He looked physically very fit today. I think it was difficult for the centre-backs for Brazil to keep him calm. How far we can go, I don't know. We are among the last eight. I think we will see."

Andreas Schjelderup, the half-time substitute who set up Haaland for both of his goals against Brazil, summed up the mood in the Norway camp when it comes to their prolific superstar. "I am lost for words. We are all lost for words. We are all just happy that he is Norwegian and that he is playing for us," said Benfica winger Schjelderup. "The things he does every game to be able to score, it doesn't matter you can just cross the ball or pass it in blindly and he will score so we are so lucky to have him and we appreciate him very much.

"Hopefully he will score some more goals in the next games so we are looking forward to that." Whether Norway face co-hosts Mexico or England in Miami on July 11, neither side will need reminding of Haaland's ability to change a game in an instant.

But after Harry Kane's penalty added to their lead, they held out to set up a meeting with Erling Haaland's Norway in the last eight on Saturday. "It's the best night of my England career. Just unbelievable. I can't put it into words right now," said Bellingham. "It's tough to kind of gather everything together, the goals, the penalty against, the penalty for, the red card. It was a chaotic game, but credit to Mexico, they were a different class...but this team showed character tonight and I'm proud."

England also overcame playing at high altitude and a one-hour delay to the game due to adverse weather on a night that will live long in the memory. Bellingham hailed the character shown by Thomas Tuchel's side in contrast to the disappointments he grew up watching at major tournament.

"Big pressure moments in years gone by watching as a fan, as a kid, England probably would have crumbled but we stuck together until the last second," he added. "The players who came on, the players that started, running themselves into the ground and giving everything. That is what what this team is about."

Bellingham now has four goals in five games at the tournament to emphatically silence pre-competition doubts that he would even be certain to start under Tuchel. He is dreaming of uniting a nation as England aim to to end 60 years of hurt since they last won a major tournament. "No matter where you're from, no matter what you do, I can imagine everyone's together and that's the thing I dream of being a part of," said the 23-year-old. "Bringing my country together and and giving them nights like this. I'm so proud of this team -- what we've done tonight is spectacular."

The Sharks capped their return with a visit to Cape Verde's presidential palace Sunday evening, where President Jose Maria Neves declared that "Argentina won, but Cape Verde triumphed". The west African archipelago nation progressed to the knockout stages in their first World Cup, thrilling supporters back home and gaining fans abroad as they confounded expectations. In an epic last-32 contest in Miami on Friday, Cape Verde pushed Argentina to the brink but the reigning world champions snatched a 3-2 win in extra time.

"If the Cape Verde vs. Argentina match was the most-watched game of the World Cup, you can be sure it wasn't because of Argentina", Neves said to laughter. The team's arrival back home coincided with Independence Day in Cape Verde, a nation of just 500,000 people which was liberated from Portugal in 1975 after being ruled by the country for some 500 years. "After the heroes who fought for our independence, we now have these heroes -- the Blue Sharks", fan Edmilson Correia, 28, told AFP at the airport, where he had gathered with other fans, many carrying flags and dressed in blue.

Ahead of the parade, goalkeeper Vozinha told reporters that he believed his team had "achieved something magnificent" even if he had not yet "fully grasped the magnitude of what we've just accomplished". When asked by AFP about his future plans, he said only that "right now, I'm just thinking about getting some rest, and we'll see what happens next". The Blue Sharks had to cancel a stop on the parade route at the National Assembly after it became too difficult given the enthusiastic crowd, and will instead visit the legislature Monday.

The parade ended at Kebra Kanela beach, the city's main seaside area, where thousands more fans celebrated the team with prolonged applause and drums. Cape Verde head coach Bubista told the press upon landing back in Praia that "we demonstrated that our World Cup qualification wasn't down to luck". "We showed hard work and resilience, and we left the United States with our heads held high", he said. Supporters strained to catch a glimpse of their heroes such as Sidny Lopes Cabral and Vozinha as they left the airport.

Twelve-year-old Ivan Goncalves said he was on the lookout for Cabral in particular because of his "fabulous goal against Argentina". Minister of Culture and Sports Antonio Duarte commended the Blue Sharks and their coach for "cementing Cape Verde's status as a great nation". The president of the Cape Verdean Football Federation, Mario Semedo, meanwhile said their performance had raised the bar. "The challenges will certainly be greater" he said, adding that "I think we will all be motivated and up to the task".

England have relied on Bellingham and Kane throughout the tournament and that duo have carried them into a last eight showdown with Erling Haaland's Norway. "When the going gets tough, they never give up, they never lose belief. It was one step more," said England boss Thomas Tuchel. "We need to take this in. This is Azteca, it's Mexico, a crazy game. We left everything out there, every single one of us. We need to take this in, now it's full steam ahead."

Bellingham struck twice in 98 seconds in the first half to condemn Mexico to just a third defeat in 90 matches at the Azteca. Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez reduced the Mexican arrears but they fell short of a place in the quarter-finals. Victory also helped to erase some of England's nightmarish memories at the Azteca in the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup when Diego Maradona scored a double for Argentina, including the infamous "Hand of God" goal.

The match was delayed by an hour after a thunder storm and heavy rain lashed the Mexican capital for hours before the planned 6.00pm (0000 GMT) kick-off time. Despite the sodden conditions, over 80,000 fans crammed into the stadium to create a deafening noise. Tuchel was wary of a fast start from Mexico as his side adjusted to the altitude 2,240 metres (7,350 feet) above sea level.

Mexico had flown out of the traps when they won a World Cup knockout game for the first time in 40 years against Ecuador 2-0 on Tuesday. This time England managed to keep Javier Aguirre's side at bay, but did need a crucial intervention from Jordan Pickford to deny Jimenez opening the scoring with a diving header that was headed for the bottom corner. Tuchel made three changes to the side that needed a heroic performance from Kane to prevent an embarrassing early exit to DR Congo.

Quansah was forced to deputise at right-back with Reece James not fit to start for a third consecutive game, opening up Tuchel to criticism over his decision not to select more specialist cover in that position. Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka also started out wide and both made telling contributions. Saka's cross picked out Bellingham to power in a header for the first goal Mexico had conceded in five World Cup games.

The hosts failed to compose themselves as within two minutes the Real Madrid midfielder had doubled England's lead. Kane's ball across fell perfectly for Bellingham to power in his fourth goal of the tournament. Yet what should have been a comfortable lead was nearly wiped out by half-time. Quinones blasted in his fourth goal of the tournament to spark the Mexico rally after England failed to clear a free-kick.

Jimenez drilled wide and saw another header saved by Pickford before Bellingham made a last-ditch intervention to deny Cesar Montes a certain equaliser. Nico O'Reilly nearly restored England's two-goal cushion at the start of the second half as his deflected shot cannoned off the post. Quansah was shown a straight red card on 54 minutes after a VAR review for a mistimed lunge on Jesus Gallardo.

But just six minutes later the 10 men had added to their lead when Gordon was wiped out by Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel and Kane emphatically dispatched the penalty. The England captain's sixth goal of the tournament puts him just one behind Haaland, Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot. The game took another huge momentum swing when this time Kane was penalised for a foul inside his own box and Jimenez slotted home the penalty to set up a frantic final 20 minutes. England though stood tall, defending at times frantically to resist the Mexican wave during 11 minutes of additional time and reach a third consecutive World Cup quarter-final.

Kane, hoarse after celebrating with his teammates and England's supporters, said: "It was a crazy game. We had to fight and we had to find something. "I've just been singing, I can't really talk. The occasion, the team, everything against us, we found a way."

Jude Bellingham scored twice for England in the space of 98 seconds in the first half but then conceded a penalty that the referee awarded after checking VAR images. Kane then scored a penalty on the hour-mark. "I thought I got to the ball first, it was one of those days," Kane said. "The ref gave a lot against us. In the end it didn't matter so I'm happy."

The American League leads the all-time rivalry 48-45 with two drawn after the NL won 7-6 last year in Atlanta. Starting position players for both teams were selected in two rounds of fan voting. Japanese star Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers was the top overall NL vote-getter in round one to claim a designated hitter spot earlier while Toronto's Ernie Clement took the AL starting spot at second base. Players vote for a remaining 17 players -- eight pitchers and nine position reserves -- for each team while MLB commissioner Rob Manfred selects four pitchers and two position players for each team.

Joining designated hitter Ohtani as an NL starter were outfielders Brandon Marsh of Philadelphia, Andy Pages of the Dodgers and Juan Soto of the New York Mets. NL infield starters included Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman -- chosen for his 10th career All-Star contest -- and third baseman Max Muncy, Atlanta second baseman Ozzie Albies and catcher Drake Baldwin and Washington shortstop CJ Abrams.

In the American League, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Trout was selected to his 12th career All-Star Game. He has a hamstring injury but hopes to recover in time to play less than an hour's drive from his New Jersey hometown. Joining Trout in the AL outfield starting lineup were New York Yankees slugger Judge and Minnesota's Byron Buxton.

The infield includes Clement, Tampa Bay third baseman Junior Caminero, Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Kansas City's Bobby Witt Jr. and Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers, whose team is in the process of moving to Las Vegas. Houston's Yordan Alvarez was voted the AL designated hitter. NL pitchers selected included Milwaukee's Jacob Misiorowski, Philadelphia's Christopher Sanchez, 10th-time All-Star Chris Sale of Atlanta, Pittsburgh's Paul Skenes and Japanese hurler Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers.

Al pitchers included Cam Schlittler of the Yankees, Toronto's Dylan Cease and Boston's Aroldis Chapman. Hitting and pitching star Ohtani, who led the Los Angeles Dodgers to World Series titles the past two years with two of his four league Most Valuable Player seasons, has a biceps injury and is not expected to be available to pitch in the All-Star clash.

Ohtani's strong performance on the mound as well as at designated hitter saw him selected for both roles in the All-Star Game. Ohtani is 8-2 on the mound this season with a 1.79 earned-run average and 95 strikeouts in 85 2/3 innings. At the plate, Ohtani is batting .288 with 18 home runs and 50 runs batted in over 85 games.

His final scheduled start before the mid-season classic is Friday against Arizona, however, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts doesn't see the 31-year-old right-hander pitching in Philadelphia. "We don't know that yet," Roberts said. 

He instead turned to Mathew Ryan, who failed to pull off a save and Egypt won 4-2 on spot-kicks. The result left Australia still searching for a first victory in the knockout stages of a World Cup. Popovic also came under scrutiny for entrusting 18-year-old Lucas Herrington with one of the penalties, which he missed.

"Every fan will think about what can be done better," Football Australia chief executive Martin Kugeler told Australian media in Dallas. "But the coaching staff and Tony Popovic are always in the best place to judge in that moment what is needed for the team.

"In hindsight, everyone always knows better, but you have to make those calls in the moment based on what you've seen in training, what is your impression in talking to the players. "So Tony Popovic has absolutely our confidence." Popovic was appointed in 2024 and guided Australia to their sixth successive World Cup. His contract was extended in the days before the tournament through to the 2027 Asian Cup which is due to be held in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5.

"We're absolutely happy about the decision to extend this contract," Kugeler said. "He is the right person to now take this group into the next major tournament and apply all the experiences, all the learnings from this tournament into the next major tournament."

The goal was Mbappe's seventh of the Lionel Messi, putting him alongside Argentina's Lionel Messi in the race for the tournament's Golden Boot. Paraguay, who pulled off a massive upset in the last 32 by ousting four-time champions Germany on penalties, frustrated France for long periods with an ultra-disciplined defensive effort.

But the introduction of substitute Desire Doue for left winger Bradley Barcola in the 61st minute led to the breakthrough. Paris Saint-Germain player Doue cut in menacingly from the left and jinked past several Paraguayan players before being upended by Diego Gomez in the area. There was a brief delay after referee Ilgiz Tantashev waved play on, but when the incident was sent to VAR for review, the Uzbek official swiftly pointed to the spot.

Mbappe stepped up and converted with aplomb to settle a match played in temperatures of around 38 degrees Celsius (100 Fahrenheit) as a heatwave roasted the northeastern United States as it celebrated the July 4 holiday. "We knew what sort of match we were in for, but I think today went really well," Mbappe said after an ill-tempered affair that saw three France players pick up yellow cards.

"They thought we'd turn up in tuxedos, that we'd just come to pull off some spectacular moves," Mbappe added. "But we know how to play the dirty game too. And we did that today; we won, and even in that respect we were better than them." France will now face Morocco in the quarter-finals in Foxborough, outside Boston on Thursday -- a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final won by Les Bleus.

Morocco booked their place in the last eight earlier on Saturday after ending co-host Canada's World Cup campaign with a clinical 3-0 victory in Houston. Two goals from Azzedine Ounahi and an injury-time effort from Soufiane Rahimi sealed the win for Morocco at the NRG Stadium. The reigning African champions, who had produced a superb performance to eliminate the Netherlands in the last 32, were made to work hard for victory by a Canada side who dominated the early exchanges.

But Morocco made the crucial breakthrough just after half-time when Ounahi swept in a powerful low shot from the edge of the area. Ounahi made victory inevitable eight minutes from time with his second before Rahimi's late goal on the counter-attack left Canada heading for the tournament exit.

"We are very happy," Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi said. "It's a World Cup match and these are difficult games with teams playing for their lives. Canada were impressive -- they played a top match. It was no surprise for us but in the second half we were able to profit from the space they left us."

Morocco are the first African nation to reach the quarter-finals in back-to-back World Cups, providing yet further evidence of the team's emergence among the world's elite footballing nations. "We're no longer a surprise today and that's a great source of pride," Ouahbi said. "I think this is only the beginning and I hope we'll keep producing this kind of run for many years." Canada coach Jesse Marsch said he believed his team had been the superior side but paid the price for poor finishing.

"We were the better team," Marsch said. "It's just they had a bit of quality in the final third and we lacked the ability to make a play when we needed to." Saturday's games kicked off the round of 16 as the tournament reaches its final stages. On Sunday, England face Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in a much-anticipated encounter while Brazil take on Norway at East Rutherford in New Jersey.

Coming to the crease late on day one when the West Indies enjoyed success with the second new ball, Dinusha and Kusal Mendis faced very few alarms as their sixth-wicket partnership advanced slowly through another bright morning on a pitch offering very little assistance to the home side's pace-heavy attack. Accelerating after the lunch interval, their stand was worth 143 runs and they looked set for many more when Mendis became a victim of his own exaggerated ambition, bowled behind his legs for 69 when attempting to scoop fast-medium bowler Anderson Phillip to the leg-side.

His dismissal, with the total already at an imposing 476 for six, did not distract Dinusha in his pursuit of a maiden Test century in only his third Test. Finding a resolute partner in Milan Rathnayaka, the 25-year-old left-hander was within sight of the landmark when the introduction of Kavem Hodge to toss up his part-time left-arm spin caused him to get too greedy. Hodge's first two deliveries were put away for boundaries, taking Dinusha to 92. Off the third ball though, he appeared to be caught in two minds and only succeeded in popping up a simple catch to Brandon King at cover.

His innings occupied 166 deliveries, highlighted by 12 fours. Rathnayaka and debutant Isitha Wijesundara then perished in pursuit of quick runs with captain Dhananjaya de Silva poised at the front of the dressing with the clear intention of making a declaration. That decision to close off the innings came when Wijesundara, who smashed a six and a four in his brief maiden Test innings, swung Jayden Seales high to the leg-side where John Campbell held a well-judged catch running back from mid-wicket.

Sri Lanka's head coach Gary Kirsten was particularly pleased with the way the overnight pair carried on the good work of the first day. "We really wanted to come back today and carry on the good work and Kusal and Sonal did just that, with guys chipping in with important runs afterwards," said the former South African batsman.

"Sonal complemented Kusal very well. He's a gutsy cricketer. I always like a player who comes in at six or seven (in the batting order) and is prepared to stick around. "I am looking forward to watching him in the future," he added. Campbell and opening partner King then faced a searching examination from the swing and seam of Asitha Fernando and Rathnayaka operating with the new ball.

Rathnakaya removed King via a low catch at second slip by Kamindu Mendis but Sri Lanka should have enjoyed more success but for their own frailties in the field. New batsman Hodge was the prime beneficiary, missed by a diving Dinusha at long-leg off a miscued hook and then by Lahiru Udara at first slip.

Temperatures in the Pennsylvania metropolis touched 38 degrees Celsius (101 Fahrenheit) on Friday, and the US National Weather Service are warning of more of the same on Saturday when the game kicks off at 5:00pm local time. France coach Didier Deschamps said his team will be prepared for the conditions. "It is something we need to take into account, but I think every team has prepared for it. It can have an impact on all the teams," said Deschamps.

"This will be our fifth game at the tournament and that will have an impact as well, but I am not fixated on the heat." France have the outstanding team of the tournament so far, producing a series of scintillating attacking displays to surge into the last 16, scoring 13 goals in four games. Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro said the South Americans were more concerned by the "storm" of France's multi-pronged attack than the weather.

"France are like an electrical storm. We need to be aware that the storm is coming and try to be prepared for the lightning bolts," Alfaro said. "We are used to the heat, and of course we have to suffer with it. You would never play a World Cup game at 5:00 pm in Paraguay, and if we did we might lose, but it's like when you go to Quito (to play Ecuador), and you have to be ready for the altitude."

Paraguay demonstrated in their victory over Germany in the last 32 that they are likely to present a rugged challenge to French hopes of reaching the quarter-finals. France forward Bradley Barcola is fully expecting the South Americans to bring a physical approach to Saturday's game. "It's a team that defends a lot. They're going to dish out a lot of knocks," Barcola said.

"But they are also a footballing team. We saw that against Germany." In Saturday's early last 16 game, Canada are chasing what would be a massive upset when they take on 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco in Houston. The Canadians are riding high after defeating South Africa in Los Angeles on Sunday to advance to the last 16.

But Canada coach Jesse Marsch says beating a side of the calibre of Morocco will require a whole new level of performance. "Morocco is a team that has literally zero weaknesses," Marsch said Friday. "We have to try to be good at the things that we care about and that we are good at. "We're going to need to handle the difficulty of what Morocco is going to throw at us at every moment, and make sure that we are understanding exactly who we are, how we want to play, who we want to be, and that we execute that at the highest level."

Morocco fought their way into Saturday's last 16 with a gruelling victory over the Netherlands, when they won on penalties after extra-time. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi though said the victory over the Dutch was already in the rear-view mirror as the Atlas Lions aim to keep moving through the tournament, where a possible quarter-final date with France awaits them.

"We have a lot of respect for (Canada), they have quality," Ouahbi said. "The level we showed in these last games will not be enough. This is the most difficult game, because it is the next one." "We already played against the Netherlands, it's in the past. If we have to play another match, that will be the hardest one."

Now they are hoping to repeat their famous 1998 group-stage victory over five-time world champions Brazil and earn a place in the quarter-finals. Haaland may have rated Norway's chances of defeating Brazil as "very small" but history offers encouragement.

The Norwegians have never lost to the Selecao, with two wins and two draws from their four previous meetings. Coach Stale Solbakken was a midfielder in the squad when Norway beat Brazil 2-1 to reach the knockout phase almost three decades ago before exiting in the last 16. "Brazil are favourites, of course they are, but we are hopeful that we will give them a match, and we are not playing the game for fun - we are playing to win the game and to reach the quarter-finals," said Solbakken.

"It's possible, but it's very difficult." But Solbakken believes he has "the greatest goalscorer in the world" at his disposal in Haaland. The Manchester City star has scored in each of his last 13 competitive internationals, netting 25 times during that run. "It's amazing to have him in the team, we're lucky to have him and it's just about giving him as many opportunities as possible," said Norway captain Martin Odegaard.

Brazil have a trump card of their own in Vinicius Junior, whose four goals at the tournament have made him the team's leading scorer and most influential player. He became the first Brazilian since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002 to score in all three group stage matches at a World Cup. That was the last time Brazil lifted the trophy.

"I think every team needs to set up the team right and try to stop him," said Solbakken, who joked his team would set up in a "7-3-0" formation. "It's not easy. You have seen that so far in the World Cup. We will try to do our best." Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland is well aware of the damage Vinicius can inflict, having spent the past three seasons in La Liga with Sevilla. He pointed to a strong qualifying campaign as evidence though that the team has every reason to believe they can knock out Brazil.

"Because of what we've done over the last two or three years and what we've achieved so far... we know we can stop anyone," said 35-year-old Nyland. Brazil are hoping Carlo Ancelotti's proven winning pedigree can return them to the top. They needed a stoppage-time winner from Gabriel Martinelli to see off Japan in the last 32, Brazil's first comeback win in a World Cup knockout game since their 2-1 victory over England in 2002. "Ancelotti is a surreal guy," said Martinelli. "At half-time, he gave us confidence, he told us that we would score and come back. It didn't matter when the goal would be scored. We sensed his calmness. It relaxed us."

Brazil must overcome another recent stumbling block, having failed to beat a European opponent in the knockout stage in each of the last five World Cups. They lost on penalties to Croatia in the 2022 quarter-finals. Matheus Cunha said Brazil had dedicated "a good part" of their training preparing to counter Norway's aerial threat, but warned it would be a mistake to focus solely on Haaland.

"I think we have to concentrate not only on him, but on several Norway players," said the Manchester United forward. "They have a very strong physical presence throughout the team." Lucas Paqueta is ruled out with a hamstring injury, but Raphinha could be available after returning to training on Friday. The Barcelona winger has missed the past two games with a thigh injury picked up in Brazil's second match.

Getting his chance at the top of the order only because of a wrist injury sustained by Pathum Nissanka, Udara launched into the Caribbean bowlers from the outset and sustained the assault for most of the day in an entertaining innings which occupied 248 balls highlighted by five sixes and 21 fours. He looked destined for a double-century when a miscued hook off Alzarri Joseph was held by Shamar Joseph on the fine-leg boundary minutes before the end of the day.

Udara received considerable assistance from Kamindu Mendis in a dominant 215-run third-wicket partnership after the tourists, who surprisingly chose to bat on a surface that appeared similar to the one on which they were thrashed by an innings and 17 runs in the first Test, lost two early wickets to the bowling of Shamar Joseph. Left-hander Mendis belted 11 fours in his innings of 84 off 120 deliveries before he was brilliantly stumped down the leg-side by wicketkeeper Shai Hope standing up to the medium-pace of all-rounder Justin Greaves.

Their partnership is the second-best for Sri Lanka for any wicket in Tests against the West Indies, 23 runs short of the 238 put on by Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal, also for the third wicket, in Galle in 2015. Hope is back behind the stumps for the West Indies after a shoulder injury ruled him out of the first Test. Joshua da Silva, recalled after a year in the wilderness for that match, failed to make the most of the reprieve and was again left out.

Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva joined the free scoring with Udara in a fourth-wicket partnership of 93 but followed the opener back to the pavilion for 33. Kemar Roach, who became just the fifth West Indies bowler to reach the landmark of 300 wickets in Tests towards the end of Sri Lanka's second innings capitulation last Sunday, was not considered for the second Test, reportedly because of injury.

His replacement, fast-medium bowler Anderson Phillip, failed to make any impact. Indeed, the entire home pace attack seemed to miss the steadying influence of the experienced Roach as the bowling generally lacked discipline and control, allowing Udara in particular to capitalise during the first two sessions of play.

West Indies bowled with greater purpose in the final session. By then though, Udara was in full flow, the 32-year-old right-hander having reached his maiden Test century in only his third match with a top-edged hook for six off Jayden Seales just before the tea interval. That blow merely rubbed salt in a wide open Seales wound as the fast bowler was left cursing his misfortune when he induced an edge from Udara, on 56, in the final over to lunch.

The first and second slip fielders John Campbell and Greaves could only watch each other, however, as the ball bisected them at catchable height on the way to the third man boundary. Seales shared the new ball at the start of the match with Shamar Joseph, who earned swift reward via careless shots from Nishan Madushka and Dinesh Chandimal. Brandon King was the catcher on both occasions at point and midwicket as Sri Lanka stuttered at 25 for two in what then appeared to be a continuation of their batting misery of five days ago.

The 34-year-old Salah was clearly hampered by a hamstring strain, but played the whole 120 minutes and stepped up for his country when they needed him. "If somebody was going to do it, it would be me. I am more experienced than others and I wanted to give them confidence," said Salah, who had looked emotional afterwards. "I decided last minute, I had to do it."

Salah proclaimed "history" for Egypt and told his team-mates to enjoy it, after the great underachievers of African football finally made their mark on the biggest stage. Salah could well be at his last World Cup, and said: "I always try to enjoy every moment because it does not come back. "So I always tell the boys, 'just enjoy the moment', and probably we'll see tonight in a few minutes how we're going to celebrate outside the bus now.

"But we can't take it for granted because Egypt -- I don't know how many times I've said the word -- but it's never before we qualified in a group stage and never qualified for the next round, so it's just a moment to enjoy." Egypt coach Hossam Hassan had said on Thursday that he was "not sure" if the talisman would be fit to start. But Hassan named him in a starting XI that also included Manchester City's Omar Marmoush in attack. Aside from his penalty in the shootout, Salah has one goal and two assists so far at the tournament in North America and averages a goal every other game for his country.

Klopp, who led Liverpool to Champions League and Premier League honours, is currently under contract as Red Bull's head of global football, but Sky Germany reports he has a verbal agreement which would allow him to leave to take up the Germany job. Nagelsmann's resignation comes a day after the 38-year-old was called into a three-hour meeting at DFB headquarters in Frankfurt to discuss his future. German tabloid Bild reported the coach was offered a severance package of seven million euros ($8 million), roughly one year's salary, to cut short his contract which was set to expire in 2028.

"The decision was anything but easy for me," Nagelsmann said in a statement. "My top priority has always been the success of the team. After such a bitter disappointment, it deserves the chance of a new beginning." Nagelsmann apologised to fans for the early exit. "I am sorry and hurt from the bottom of my heart that we disappointed you and couldn't give you any more football nights at this World Cup." DFB sporting director Rudi Voeller said Nagelsmann "is and remains an excellent coach and I am convinced that he will continue to follow his path successfully".

- Series of setbacks - Germany's loss to Paraguay is the latest in a series of setbacks for the four-time world champions, who suffered two group stage World Cup exits in Russia and Qatar. The Germans have not fared much better at the Euros. Germany were eliminated by England at the last 16 level in 2021 and lost to eventual champions Spain on home soil at Euro 2024. By moving on from Nagelsmann immediately after the World Cup, the DFB wanted to avoid a repeat of the situation in 2018 and 2022, when some felt they held onto an unsuccessful coach for too long. Joachim Loew, a world champion in 2014, eventually left the position three years after the 2018 World Cup, with Flick leaving a year after the 2022 edition.

Nagelsmann's appointment was initially considered a coup for the DFB, with European clubs reportedly interested at the time. Already the youngest coach in Bundesliga history when he took over Hoffenheim aged 28, Nagelsmann also managed Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig. Initially appointed on a short-term deal for Euro 2024, Nagelsmann extended shortly before that tournament and then signed another extension in January 2025, which would take him to after Euro 2028. Germany showed signs of a revival under Nagelsmann at Euro 2024, winning their group before losing in extra time to eventual champions Spain in the quarter-finals.

Earlier, in the eighth round game played on Wednesday night (Bangladesh time), he also drew with India's Candidate Master Kushagra Jain. Russia's Artem Erokhin claimed the championship title with seven points, while his compatriot, International Master Zaur Tekeyev, secured the runner-up position with the same score after their position was decided by tie- breaking system.

Category A of the Vojvodina Open 2026 featured a strong field of fifty two players from sixteen countries, including six Grandmasters, nine International Masters and five FIDE Masters. In recognition of his outstanding performance, FIDE Master Tahsin Tajwar Zia was awarded a cash prize of €500.

The Atlantic archipelago have become one of the fairytale stories of this year's expanded 48-team tournament, confounding expectations by earning a draw with Spain before squeezing into the last 32 ahead of Group H rivals Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Argentina, who breezed into the knockout rounds with the help of six goals from captain Messi, will be expected to swat aside the African qualifiers to move one step closer to their dream of back-to-back World Cup titles.

But Cape Verde insist they will not be overawed by the occasion and the prospect of sharing a field with the reigning world champions and eight-time Ballon D'Or winner Messi. "We are calm because we earned our place here on merit and there is nothing to fear or worry too much about," Cape Verde coach Bubista said. "We know the importance of the match ahead. It is the match of our lives, but we are going to enjoy it and give our best. There is no other thought in our minds than trying to advance past this round."

Netherlands-born Cape Verde midfielder Deroy Duarte was similarly nonplussed, saying the minnows would relish the chance to make history. "Everything is an honour and a reward, and we see Argentina as a game like this -- another chance to make histor," Duarte said. "So why not? We will give everything and then at the end of the game we will see." Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, who will mark his 100th game in charge of the South American giants in Friday's encounter, insists his team will not be taking their opponents lightly, pointing to their unbeaten record in the group stage.

"This is a team that hasn't lost," said Scaloni. "They aren't here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do." A win for Argentina will see them into a last 16 game against either Australia or Egypt, who meet in Dallas on Friday. Australia coach Tony Popovic has challenged the Socceroos to make history by winning their first ever World Cup knockout game. "It will be a special match and we want to show Australian football on the world stage," Popovic said on Thursday, adding that "if we perform well, we have a chance to make history."

Egypt enter the game with fitness concerns swirling around talismanic former Liverpool Mohamed Salah, who is nursing a hamstring problem. Coach Hossam Hassan said Salah would not be risked unless "I am 100 percent sure he is fit and raring to go." In Friday's other game, Ghana, like Egypt, are hoping to buck what has been a disappointing start to the knockout rounds for African teams when they face Colombia in Kansas City.

So far, five of the nine African teams in the last 32 have been eliminated, with South Africa, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Democratic Republic of Congo and Algeria all heading for the exit. Only Morocco have made it through to the last 16. Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz said he hopes to buck that trend against a dangerous Colombian team.

"We have to make it better," Queiroz said of the African exodus. "So it is on our shoulders to be sure that we add another African team to the next round. That's our duty." Algeria were eliminated in a 2-0 loss to Switzerland on Thursday as Portugal and Spain advanced to the last 16. Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a drama-filled game in Toronto, while Spain swatted aside Austria 3-0 to extend their incredible unbeaten streak to 35 matches.

His departure leaves the door open for former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who is believed to be the federation's preferred candidate to take over. Klopp, who left Liverpool in 2024 after a hugely successful stay during which he won the Champions League and Premier League, is currently Red Bull's global head of football but reportedly has a release clause that would allow him to take the Germany job.

The 59-year-old remains hugely popular in Germany and has been engaged as a pundit on German TV throughout coverage of the World Cup. Nagelsmann took part in a three-hour meeting at DFB headquarters in Frankfurt on Thursday in which he was reportedly offered a seven million euro ($8 million) severance package, approximately one year's salary, to leave the position.

If his departure is confirmed, 38-year-old Nagelsmann would become just the second national coach in German history to be sacked after predecessor Hansi Flick suffered the same fate in 2023. Germany crashed out in a penalty shootout to Paraguay in Boston on Monday after the match ended 1-1 at the end of extra time. It was the first time the Germans had lost on penalties a World Cup. The four-time World Cup winners suffered exits at the group stage at Russia 2018 and in Qatar four years ago. The Germans have not won a knockout match or kept a clean sheet at the tournament since the 2014 final, won 1-0 over Argentina in Brazil. 

After winning the trophy in 2018 and losing the 2022 final on penalties, France are hoping to become only the third team in World Cup history to reach three consecutive finals, after West Germany and Brazil. That remains a long way off but their performances so far suggest they will take some beating. Tuesday's 3-0 defeat of Sweden in the last 32, in which Mbappe scored twice and Bradley Barcola once, made it four wins in four matches with 13 goals scored.

France have enjoyed plenty of success during Didier Deschamps' 14 years in charge, but for a long time there was a sense that a pragmatic coach was not allowing his team to maximise their attacking potential. Now at his last tournament before stepping down, that appears to have changed. Mbappe, Barcola, Ousmane Dembele and the brilliant Michael Olise seem unstoppable. "There is an excellent rapport between the attacking players. They speak the same footballing language," said Deschamps after the Sweden game.

France look a very good bet to win their third World Cup, and they are certainly expected to overcome a Paraguay team ranked 41st in the world. But it is unlikely to be as simple as that in reality, and the Paraguayans head to Philadelphia with confidence sky-high after their victory on penalties against Germany -- which led to a national holiday being declared back home.

"They are not here by chance. Germany are a top side, and they have that South American DNA, which means they get stuck in," Deschamps said of Paraguay. "And they have good players too. You can't just qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup like that by chance." Barcola said on Friday that France were bracing for a physical contest.

"It's a team that defends a lot. They're going to dish out a lot of knocks," he told reporters. "But they are also a footballing team. We saw that against Germany." One Paraguayan player well-known in France is Julio Enciso of Strasbourg, who scored against Germany. He recognises that few people will expect Paraguay to win as they aim to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup for just the second time.

"We also have our own strengths, and with our style of play, we're going to try to make things difficult for any opponent," said Enciso. One potential opponent for both teams is the weather, with temperatures in Philadelphia set to reach 37 degrees Celsius (98 Fahrenheit) on Saturday. This match will take place in the city where the American Declaration of Independence was signed 250 years ago, but celebrations for the occasion are at risk of being impacted by storms. France have already played in Philadelphia in this World Cup, and their 3-0 win over Iraq during the group stage was interrupted for two hours because of rain and thunder.

Coping with the conditions could be a challenge, and both sides will want to avoid the draining prospect of extra time and penalties. The last meeting of the countries at a World Cup featured extra time and turned out to be one of the most pivotal moments in the modern history of the French national team. On their way to winning the trophy for the first time on home soil in 1998, Les Bleus -- with Deschamps as captain -- edged Paraguay 1-0.

Dan Ndoye slotted in the second, shooting through a crowd of players. Algeria 'keeper Luca Zidane was unable to get a strong enough hand to the ball on a bitterly disappointing night for the north Africans. Algeria join Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal as African teams to be knocked out so far at the last-32 stage. Only Morocco have progressed.

Ronaldo and Modric, who won four Champions Leagues in six seasons together at Real Madrid, have long defied Father Time but have shown their age in what will almost certainly be their final flourish on the global stage. At 41, Ronaldo defiantly screamed "I'm back" after netting twice against Uzbekistan as he became the first player to ever score at six World Cups. Yet either side of a 5-0 romp over a team ranked 60th in the world, Portugal failed to beat the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia and fell into a tougher section of the draw as a result.

"It's already 23 years I've been a professional and whenever things don't go well it's 'Cristiano, he's finished, he's old'," Ronaldo said earlier in the tournament. The forward played every minute of the group stages and outgoing Portugal boss Roberto Martinez shows no sign of taking the bold call to sit the five-time Ballon d'Or winner on the bench. "There is not an issue physically or mentally for Cristiano in today's game to play the 90 minutes," Martinez said after Ronaldo managed just two touches in the Colombia box.

- Protecting Ronaldo's ego -

After a slow start to the World Cup four years ago, Ronaldo was eventually dropped by Fernando Santos in favour of Goncalo Ramos. The AC Milan striker immediately scored a hat-trick in a 6-1 demolition of Switzerland, but a 1-0 defeat to Morocco in the quarter-finals meant Ronaldo's time out of the side was short-lived and Santos was removed as coach. The impression that Martinez is wasting a richly talented generation just to protect Ronaldo's ego grows with every pedestrian performance.

Portugal's depth of midfield talent meant Paris Saint-Germain's Joao Neves and Bernardo Silva, now of Real Madrid, started on the bench against Colombia. Yet even with one of the World Cup's strongest midfields behind him, Ronaldo's strikes against Uzbekistan are his only non-penalty goals in his past 14 games at major tournaments. Modric, 40, similarly showed his age in Croatia's tournament opener, which ended in a 4-2 defeat to England in Dallas.

Caught on his heels, Modric conceded a penalty when chopping down Noni Madueke for England's opening goal and was sacrificed by Zlatko Dalic before the hour mark. Croatia bounced back to celebrate Modric's 200th cap, edging past Panama 1-0. In doing so, Modric became the fourth man to reach a double century of international appearances, joining Ronaldo. The AC Milan midfielder then provided the assist for Nikola Vlasic's winner as Croatia beat Ghana 2-1.

Finalists in 2018, Croatia also reached the semi-finals four years ago. Modric was the driving force behind those incredible runs for a country of less than four million people. A likely last-16 meeting with Spain and one final shot at glory awaits the winners in Toronto. But for one of football's all-time greats, the World Cup curtain will come down in Canada.

Portugal play Croatia in Toronto in a game that could mark the final career World Cup match for either Ronaldo or his former Real Madrid team-mate and veteran Croatian midfielder Luka Modric. The late match sees Algeria aim to revive African fortunes after a rocky start to the knockout rounds for teams from the continent.

Ivory Coast, Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo have all fallen at the first hurdle in the last 32 after advancing from the group stage. Algeria, who squeezed into the last 32 with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Austria on Saturday, face Switzerland in Vancouver. After arriving at the World Cup as one of the favourites, Spain have made a relatively low-key start to the tournament. A shock 0-0 draw with Cape Verde was followed by a 4-0 rout of Saudi Arabia before an attritional victory over Uruguay. But Spain coach Luis de la Fuente maintains his team are on an upward curve and are exactly where they want to be as they reach the business end of the tournament.

"This squad is used to breaking records and overcoming rough patches; we are determined to keep moving forward," De la Fuente said Wednesday. "From the time we arrived here up to the Uruguay match, we've seen the team begin to regain the automatic movements and patterns they had in the past. Now we have to deliver; there is no margin for error." Spain were eliminated on penalties in the last 16 of the past two World Cups, in 2018 and 2022, and have prepared for the eventuality of another shoot-out against Austria.

"Taking a penalty is no trivial matter," De la Fuente said. "Not everyone is cut out to take one. There's the psychological aspect - it's a human element, and every footballer is different." A win over Austria will see Spain advance into a last 16 game with the winner of Portugal's tie with Croatia. The game in Toronto will mark the first time that two outfield players aged over 40 -- Ronaldo and Modric -- will take to the same field in a World Cup match.

Portugal midfielder Vitinha described Modric as a "great reference for all football players." "It's a pleasure to play against him and hopefully tomorrow he'll be a little bit sadder than me," Vitinha said. "We have to stop a team tomorrow, and hopefully that will be the team of Luka Modric." The late match will see Algeria attempt to avoid becoming the latest African team to fall by the wayside in the knockout rounds following the demise of Ivory Coast, Democratic Republic of Congo and Senegal. Only Morocco have gone through.

Algeria has never won a World Cup knockout game in four previous trips to the tournament. Thursday's action takes place after another spellbinding day of drama on Wednesday that saw England stumble into the last 16 thanks to two late goals from captain Harry Kane against DR Congo in Atlanta. Kane's double secured a 2-1 win and headed off a monumental upset. England will now face a daunting trip to take on Mexico at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday. Belgium meanwhile snatched an improbable 3-2 victory over Senegal despite trailing 2-0 with four minutes of normal time remaining.

The United States booked their place in the last 16, where they will face Belgium, after a 2-0 defeat of Bosnia-Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California. The US win was bittersweet though with star striker Folarin Balogun -- who scored the opening US goal -- receiving a red card in the second half which will rule him out of the Belgium game.

Balogun also appeared to be injured from the coming-together with Muharemovic, but slow-motion replays showed his outstretched foot had come down in a dangerous position on his opponent's turning ankle. Despite protestations that the contact was accidental, Balogun received his marching orders after the referee went over to review the incident on the pitchside monitor. "For me, never is a red card," said Pochettino. "It never was (his) intention to step on the player."

"It was a normal action in football, that you are fighting for the ball, and your feet land, no? Yeah, maybe it was a little bit tough, the scene, to watch. But I think it never was intentional." US forward Christian Pulisic echoed those words, saying his teammate "didn't deserve the red card," and calling the decision "unfortunate." According to FIFA regulations, Balogun is automatically suspended for his team's next match, and the suspension cannot be appealed, a spokesman for the governing body told journalists.

Pochettino said it "should be fair" to appeal the decision, but said he would have to consider "different options" if it is not. Ricardo Pepi, who plays for PSV Eindhoven, deputized up front when Balogun was rested for the final US group game against Turkey. Balogun, who was born in New York but raised in England and now plays for French club Monaco, has netted three times for the US this World Cup, after his brace in the opener against Paraguay.

He is only two behind Landon Donovan's all-time US record of five World Cup goals. "He's very disappointed, because I think it was an action that was unintentional. But also he's happy because we qualified," said Pochettino. "We cannot do nothing to change that feeling. That is over. That is football. He needs to understand that this type of situation happens. "For sure he is going to help us to perform. I hope that we can go to the next round and (he will) be available again."

19 - Lionel Messi (ARG)

18 - Kylian Mbappe (FRA)

16 - Miroslav Klose (GER)

15 - Ronaldo (BRA)

14 - Gerd Mueller (GER)

13 - Just Fontaine (FRA), Harry Kane (ENG)

12 - Pele (BRA)

11 - Jurgen Klinsmann (GER), Sandor Kocsis (HUN)

10 - Gabriel Batistuta (ARG), Helmut Rahn (GER), Gary Lineker (ENG), Teofilo Cubillas (PER), Thomas Mueller (GER), Grzegorz Lato (POL), Cristiano Ronaldo (POR)

Many believed the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was headed for semi-retirement when he swapped top level European football for Major League Soccer after ending his long to wait to win the World Cup in Qatar. But Messi has defied expectations, both with his impact on soccer Stateside and his ability to continue deciding games at international level. Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham and only formed in 2018, had never won a trophy prior to his arrival.

Messi's arrival instantly made one of MLS's newest franchises a go-to destination for European stars. Aided by his former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, Messi led Inter to victory in the Leagues Cup, a knockout competition between clubs in the MLS, Mexican and Canadian leagues, in his first season. Last year Messi and Miami went one better in securing the club's first MLS title.

- The Messi efect -

The influence of a player widely considered the greatest of all time extends far beyond the pitch. "Messi marked a before and after for what soccer means here. From 2023 onwards, everyone became an Inter fan," explains Juan Pugin, a coach at the Revo Soccer academy in Doral, near Miami. "We've really noticed it at the academy too. Many more kids have signed up to play the sport."

That passion brings a smile to the face of Lily Diaz, a 69-year-old native of Buenos Aires, who was out for a walk in Miami wearing a national team cap. She said these days she feels closer to the country she left four decades ago to settle in Florida. "It's a huge thrill to have Messi come play for Argentina. It's a source of pride; he's a role model as both an athlete and a human being," said Diaz, who has already seen the star play four times with Inter.

Nearby, Johnny Fortes, 62, has traveled from Buenos Aires to follow Argentina throughout their World Cup journey all the way to a potential final. "I work an office job, but for a year-and-a-half, I drove a car at night so I could afford to come to the United States," he said. "I made sacrifices, but it was worth it." At Buenos Aires Bakery, a popular Argentine restaurant, a mix of national team fervor and business savvy has led to an entry fee of $15 and a $20 minimum spend for those wanting to watch the world champions' matches in the packed venue.

Inside, Julian Franco is enjoying the Argentine food he can't find in the US city of Buffalo where he settled three months ago after moving from the Argentine province of Catamarca. Like thousands set to descend on Miami, he doesn't have a ticket for Friday's match, but wanted to soak up the atmosphere in south Florida. "You feel so excited watching Messi play," he says. "Especially knowing that he has faced failures too. "It gives you hope that not everything is lost -- that you always have to give a little bit more to achieve what you want."

"As a child, you dream of signing a contract with a club like Bayern -- everybody knows it's one of the world's biggest clubs," Saibari said in a statement. "Bayern compete for the biggest titles like the Champions League every year, and I want to win as many trophies as possible here." The midfielder has been among the best players at the World Cup as Morocco made it through to the last 16.

He scored goals in each of Morocco's three group matches before converting the final penalty in their last 32 victory over the Netherlands on Monday. Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said the club were "delighted to have secured the services of Ismael Saibari, one of the most exciting players at the World Cup."

Saibari's transfer has been rumoured for weeks, with the midfielder reportedly missing a training session in New Jersey earlier in the tournament to undergo a medical ahead of a move to the Bavarian giants. Born in Spain, Saibari moved to Belgium at a young age but elected to represent Morocco, making his debut in 2023.

Bayern are looking to get even better after a stellar season in 2025-26. The Bavarian giants won a league and cup double while setting a record for goals scored in a Bundesliga campaign, but fell agonisingly short in the Champions League. Bayern were eliminated in the semi-finals by eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain 6-5 on aggregate.

However, Belgium forced extra time as Romelu Lukaku and Tielemans scored in the final five minutes, before the Aston Villa midfielder completed a remarkable turnaround by converting a penalty in the 125th minute. "In football, anything is always possible as long as you believe in it," said Belgium coach Rudi Garcia. Belgium go through to a potential meeting with the United States, who face Bosnia and Herzegovina later on Wednesday, but it will be a bitterly painful pill to swallow for Senegal.

"We're out -- it hurts. We must congratulate the team, who gave it their all, but unfortunately we weren't able to hold on to our two-goal lead," rued Senegal coach Pape Thiaw. A defeat would surely have signalled the end of the road for the last remnants of Belgium's golden generation -- Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and perhaps Thibaut Courtois -- but instead they live to fight another day. After a 5-1 win over New Zealand that clinched top spot for Belgium in Group G, Garcia named an unchanged side with Atalanta forward Charles De Ketelaere leading the attack and Lukaku on the bench.

Thiaw made three changes to the Senegal side that thrashed Iraq 5-0, which allowed them to squeak through as the last of the eight best third-place teams. Pape Gueye started after scoring twice as a substitute in that match, while Pathe Ciss and Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye came into the line-up.

Senegal nearly went ahead through the in-form Sarr, who hit the post after Courtois inadvertently diverted a cross into the Crystal Palace forward's path. The Lions of Teranga did take the lead, however, when Sarr's header from Sadio Mane's cross came back off the same post, with Diarra reacting quickest to turn the rebound home. Belgium's best chance of the half fell to Maxim De Cuyper, whose curling effort from outside the area drew an outstanding full-stretch save from Mory Diaw.

Diaw was again filling in for Edouard Mendy, who returned to Saudi Arabia for tests on a knee injury he suffered in Senegal's second game of the tournament. Belgium unsurprisingly turned to their all-time leading scorer at the interval, with Lukaku having already proven his value as a substitute against Egypt and New Zealand in the group phase. But Belgium fell further behind six minutes into the second half when Sarr chested down Moussa Niakhate's long pass over the defence before firing an emphatic finish beyond Courtois.

De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku were hauled off as Belgium appeared to be heading out, but Lukaku -- limited to barely an hour's play with Napoli this season -- grabbed his team a lifeline in the 86th minute. He swept home from a Thomas Meunier cross and, just three minutes later, Belgium were level. Diaw failed to deal with Leandro Trossard's delivery into the box and Tielemans held off two defenders to nod into an empty net. Belgium substitute Dodi Lukebakio clipped the crossbar late in the second period of extra time as the match appeared destined for a penalty shootout.

But there was one final twist when Tielemans went down under a challenge from Lamine Camara, prompting referee Said Martinez to award a penalty after a VAR review. Tielemans stepped up and dispatched with aplomb to cap a stunning fightback and break Senegalese hearts. 

Environment Canada said temperatures may ease by kickoff at 7:00 pm (2300 GMT), although the risk of thunderstorms could impact the match. Portugal made an unconvincing start to their World Cup campaign but Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha said he received the criticism of their performance "with open arms."

Portugal has fallen into a tougher draw after failing to beat the Democratic Republic of Congo and Colombia, with a rout of low-ranked Uzbekistan their lone victory in the tournament's group stage. "We know that there is hardly any room for mistakes, if any," he said. "I hope that the collective group will perform better."

The contest between the two top European sides will almost certainly mark the final World Cup appearance for either Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo or Croatia's Luka Modric, who for so long were teammates at Real Madrid. Vitinha said his side has "a lot of motives... to want to win tomorrow," and extending Ronaldo's World Cup stay was top among them. He also hailed Modric as "a great reference for all football players and even more to me."

"It's a pleasure to play against him and hopefully tomorrow he'll be a little bit sadder than me," Vitinha said. "We have to stop a team tomorrow, and hopefully that will be the team of Luka Modric." Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic said he expected Thursday's match to be "a midfield battle." "We need to reduce the errors to a minimum because they will punish us just as England did and we need to raise the level of responsibility in the midfield," Dalic said, referring to the 4-2 defeat in their opening game.

"So this time, I shoved our bikes into the back of our pickup truck, parked at a diner for free, and we rode the last 20 minutes or so." The United States had initially committed to making transport free like in Qatar in 2022 and Russia in 2018. But due to host cities' "financial difficulties," it was ultimately agreed that spectators would travel "at cost," FIFA said.

The cheapest option offered by the organizers for getting to MetLife Stadium, part of an isolated sports complex in New Jersey about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Manhattan were buses chartered by the local organizing committee. At $20 for a round trip, they filled up almost entirely, according to figures obtained by AFP. Match-day trains running to the 80,000-seat venue carry only between 20,000 and 25,000 people, out of a capacity of 40,000, according to New Jersey's NJ Transit.

Many fans have been deterred by the $98 round-trip train fare -- compared with $12.90 away from the World Cup. The cost has been widely panned by fans already feeling the pinch of the most expensive ever World Cup, but the state justified the fare as unavoidable. "There should be no price gouging for public transportation," said Kelly Wakeman, a 44-year-old American. "This is a lot of money, especially for people traveling from abroad."

Wakeman had driven to MetLife from her home in the neighboring state of Pennsylvania and decried the near-total lack of parking spaces at the stadium. She was able to find a local online option allowing fans to park around two miles from the stadium for $65, and she then walked the last section. Her strategy has been copied widely, with supporters discussing it on fan forums and on social media. The Lescaud family, from Pau in France, parked a 40-minute walk away from MetLife for $50.

Jerome Maurice, a 39-year-old French-Canadian, drove from Montreal to a small nearby town where parking costs just $1 an hour. From there, he took the bus and then walked without difficulty along roads that do not always have sidewalks. "It's the middle of the day, so I don't think there are too many traffic problems," he said. 

But the striker saw red as VAR intervened following a nasty clash with Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic. Yet even with the US forced into a 10-man rearguard action, Malik Tillman curled in a free kick to secure the win. "The guys had to dig in deep. It didn't go exactly to plan with the red card, but that just shows what a good team we are," said US forward Christian Pulisic. US supporters had flocked into the San Francisco Bay Area stadium in festive mood, their exuberant confidence summed up by the traditional pre-match fighter jet flyover in the bright California skies.

Bosnia's tactics were made clear from the kickoff -- an immediate long ball -- while the US defense quickly camped out on the halfway line. Still, Bosnia had the best early chances. Forty-year-old captain Edin Dzeko held up a launched pass from his goalkeeper and laid it off for Ermedin Demirovic, who shot right at Matt Freese. US pressure began to tell. Balogun had a decent penalty shout for a clumsy Amar Dedic tackle waved away. Soon after the American striker had the ball in the net, but was offside.

The crowd's nerves were soon soothed, as Balogun scored in the 45th minute. US captain Tim Ream intercepted a Bosnian goal kick, swiftly playing it to Tillman. His through ball deflected into the path of Balogun, who tucked it away. Seconds before half-time, another Balgoun shot from the six-yard line clipped the crossbar. Early in the second half, Dzeko limped off and Bosnian coach Sergej Barbarez made a triple substitution.

A younger, more mobile front line featuring US-raised Esmir Bajraktarevic immediately pressed higher and faster. In the 64th minute, Balogun was shown a straight red after VAR review after he was harshly judged to have stamped on Muharemovic's foot. US coach Mauricio Pochettino used the hydration break to gather his squad on the field, rallying his outnumbered troops to hold out.

"We need to show that we are a team, that we are united," the coach later recounted telling his players. "That was the moment to show to everyone, and to show ourselves, that it is not only an empty word when we say that we are a 'family.'" Despite his team suddenly being on the backfoot, Pulisic had the ball in the net but was offside. In the 82nd minute, the US won a free kick on the edge of the Bosnian box. Tillman curled it over the wall and past Nikola Vasilj, whose fingertips could not keep it out.

The Americans rode out a nervy 10 minutes of stoppage time, substitute Ermin Mahmic's shot flashing inches wide. But they ultimately sealed a historic win, keeping alive their World Cup journey on home soil, as "USA" chants and "Take Me Home, Country Roads" reverberated around the arena that hosted this year's Super Bowl. "I'm feeling so proud about the team. Very proud," said Pochettino.

"No easy game in the World Cup -- you cannot find an easy game -- and I think today, in the way that we played, it is not only the victory. It's the way that we earned the victory that is so important." For Bosnia, disappointment was mixed with pride in having reached the World Cup knockouts for the first time. "I told them in the locker room, this is a result that we should celebrate," said Barbarez. 

Last 32

In Atlanta, Georgia

England 2 (Kane 75, 86) DR Congo 1 (Cipenga 7)

In Seattle, Washington

Belgium 3 (Lukaku 86, Tielemans 89, 120+5-pen) Senegal 2 (Diarra 24, I Sarr 51) aet

Playing later (kick-off GMT)

In Santa Clara, California (0000)

United States v Bosnia-Herzegovina

But Kane finally equalised with a 75th-minute header and then lashed home a superb winner 11 minutes later to secure a win that sends England into a dream last-16 clash with co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Sunday. "We spoke about people having hero moments, it could be anyone in the team. A save from (goalkeeper Jordan) Pickford, a block from a defender, whoever it is. We have hero moments, and for me it was the day," said a beaming Kane.

England had entered Wednesday's game with doubts swirling around their makeshift defence. And those fears came to fruition after just seven minutes, with Cipenga finding himself in acres of space on England's vulnerable right flank before beating Pickford at the near post with a vicious strike. England looked utterly discombobulated by the goal and although they dominated possession thereafter were unable to find a breakthrough.

Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi pulled off a string of remarkable saves to frustrate England, who also had a strong penalty claim just before half-time when Kane was upended in the area by Mpasi after being put through on goal. With desperation rising, England manager Thomas Tuchel made a flurry of changes, and the introduction of new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon on 60 minutes proved decisive.

The former Newcastle winger provided the cross that allowed Kane to nod England level in the 75th minute and then supplied the pass for Kane's 86th-minute winner. "This team today did not accept a defeat as an outcome," England boss Tuchel said. "It makes me very proud, because they did what was necessary. "The going got tough, and they showed up, and we got a deserved win, even if it was a late one." Belgium meanwhile outdid England for drama in their last 32 clash against Senegal in Seattle, somehow clawing their way back from 2-0 down with four minutes remaining before grabbing a hotly disputed winner from the penalty spot in the fifth minute of stoppage time at the end of extra time.

Senegal looked poised to join Morocco as the other African side to advance to the last 16 after Habib Diarra opened the scoring in the 24th minute at Lumen Field against an ageing Belgium. Ismaila Sarr then doubled Senegal's lead in the 51st minute with a superb strike and the Lions of Teranga appeared to be cruising into the next round as Belgium struggled. But the introduction of veteran striker Romelu Lukaku gave Belgium a lifeline, with the 33-year-old Napoli forward pulling one back for the Red Devils in the 86th minute.

Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans then headed Belgium level in the 89th minute to send it to extra time. The game looked destined for penalties but when Tielemans went down under a challenge from Lamine Camara, referee Said Martinez awarded a penalty after a lengthy VAR review. Tielemans stepped up and dispatched the spot-kick with aplomb to cap a stunning fightback and break Senegalese hearts. Belgium will face the winners of Wednesday's late game between World Cup co-hosts the United States and Bosnia-Herzegovina in the last 16.

Up to 30 million Americans are expected to tune in for the primetime game in the San Francisco Bay Area, as Christian Pulisic and his teammates try to achieve the nation's first knockout win in almost a quarter of a century. "Everyone knows in the back of our minds what this could do for this country," said US midfielder Gio Reyna. "We feel the country rallying around us. We see the momentum it's bringing to the sport in this country, just through the group stage. But we also understand if we make a nice run in this tournament, what it could really do for the sport."

Tielemans then held his nerve to convert a penalty in the 125th minute and send Belgium into the last 16. The Aston Villa player faced a lengthy delay before taking the kick as Senegal players surrounded the spot, but he calmly dispatched his effort to cap an improbable turnaround. "What matters is that Youri Tielemans had the composure and the quality. And once again, we have the experience to take that kind of penalty, because it's not easy," said Garcia.

"At 2-2, in the 120th minute or even later, when you're tired, and Youri was feeling it physically, to go and score that penalty is a difficult task. He succeeded. "As a result, he has sent us through to the round of 16. Congratulations to our captain. I think he was outstanding."

Belgium will stay in Seattle to play either co-hosts the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 6 for a place in the quarter-finals. For much of the afternoon, it seemed the curtain was about to fall on the last remnants of Belgium's golden generation -- Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and perhaps goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois -- who helped lead the country to a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup.

Instead, a late act of defiance from the Red Devils means they live to fight another day. "Going 2-0 down and then coming back to make it 2-2 gives you a huge lift, and now the journey continues," said Garcia. "It's true that a scenario like this can bring a group even closer together. "It can make the players realise that, until a match is over and the final whistle has blown, anything can happen - as we showed."

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw admitted it was a "cruel" way for his team to exit the tournament. Habib Diarra turned in a rebound after Ismaila Sarr's header came back off the post. Sarr then equalled Roger Milla's record for the most goals by an African player at a single World Cup with his fourth of the tournament, but a late collapse allowed Belgium to pull off an unlikely escape act. "We had the game in hand, we were leading 2-0 and we sat back a bit towards the end I think because we wanted to protect the lead," said Thiaw.

"Once we conceded for 2-1, we dropped even deeper and they got their second goal. It wasn't easy, we tried to get back on our feet, but it unfortunately didn't work out." Thiaw didn't want to be drawn into a debate over the penalty decision, but he felt his side were hard done by. Memories of Senegal's walk-off protest following a late penalty award in the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco in January resurfaced, but this time there was no such reaction.

"When we looked at it, our interpretation was that there was no penalty. The players tried to contest it. It's their right, (but) they respected the referee's decision," said Thiaw. "It's not easy to lose this kind of match... unfortunately it slipped away from us, but it's football, it's cruel, it's not easy at all, but you have to accept, even if it's difficult." 

The Dutch football association thanked players and coaching staff for their "dedication and commitment" during the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States. "We also extend our sincere appreciation to the supporters -- those in the stadium, those watching from home, and everyone around the world who followed and supported the Netherlands," it said in a statement.

But the association also highlighted racial abuse aimed at Dutch players. "Football brings people together, regardless of origin or background," it said. "We have seen online reactions in which players have been subjected to racist and discriminatory abuse following the team's elimination. "We draw a clear line against such behaviour. Racism and discrimination have no place in football, online, or in our society."

19 - Lionel Messi (ARG)

18 - Kylian Mbappe (FRA)

16 - Miroslav Klose (GER)

15 - Ronaldo (BRA)

14 - Gerd Mueller (GER)

13 - Just Fontaine (FRA)

12 - Pele (BRA)

11 - Jurgen Klinsmann (GER), Sandor Kocsis (HUN), Harry Kane (ENG)

10 - Gabriel Batistuta (ARG), Helmut Rahn (GER), Gary Lineker (ENG), Teofilo Cubillas (PER), Thomas Mueller (GER), Grzegorz Lato (POL), Cristiano Ronaldo (POR)

Goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane ensured there was not another slip up against Panama in a 2-0 win that secured top spot in Group L. Tuchel has been hired to get an England side that lost in the final of the past two European Championship finals over the line and the former Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Chelsea boss was again bullish over his side's chances. "I feel it is a privilege to be in these situations. I think we can just accept it, we are the favourites (against DR Congo)," Tuchel said at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

"We play against our own expectations, we expect from us to go further than round of 32, that's just how it is, so why would our fans not expect it? Why would the public opinion not be the same?" added the 52-year-old German. Two European powerhouses are already out after Germany and the Netherlands were beaten on penalties in the last 32 by Paraguay and Morocco respectively. Tuchel said those exits and narrow wins for Brazil and Canada in the last 32 show what to expect against a DR Congo side that pushed Portugal and Colombia during the group stage.

"We expect from us what we expect, but we respect the opponent, we know about their quality," added Tuchel. "The games so far in round of 32 speak a very clear language. It's narrow, narrow margins. It makes me personally more calm than it makes me more nervous because that's just what it is." James, Quansah out -

Tuchel confirmed that Reece James and Jarell Quansah will both miss Wednesday's match due to injury, leaving the German open to criticism for not selecting more options at right-back. England have so far been reliant on moments of magic from Kane and Bellingham, but Tuchel said he was not overly concerned about having to depend on the two standout players in his squad. "It would be ideal (if others came to the fore), but honestly I have no problem if the two continue," he added.

"That's what key players do, and that's what key players do in key moments." Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford could be another important figure if England are to progress with the possibility of penalties now looming in the knockout stages. Pickford is into his fifth major tournament as England's number one and is desperate to end the nation's long wait since the 1966 World Cup for glory.

"It's everyone's dream, everyone's goal in life (to win the World Cup)," said Pickford. "I'm so proud as an English fan to put the shirt on and every time I put it on, I'm passionate. "That's our dream, but you've got chapters all along the way, first and foremost we've got Congo tomorrow and not looking beyond them."

Last 32

In Arlington, Texas

Ivory Coast 1 (Diallo 74) Norway 2 (Nusa 39, Haaland 86)

In East Rutherford, New Jersey

France 3 (Mbappe 45, 74, Barcola 53) Sweden 0

Playing later (kick-off GMT)

In Mexico City (0100 Wednesday)

Mexico v Ecuador

Pochettino -- who played and coached in Spain, France and England for decades, before taking the US job in 2024 -- denied that his team have any specific problem with European styles of play. "I don't believe that. Maybe it's pure coincidence," he told a press conference in San Francisco. "Tomorrow we have a good opportunity to fight against the history, not only against Bosnia Herzegovina, if not against the past five years.

"It's good, another challenge. We have another challenge." The US's last win against a side from Europe came in a 2021 friendly -- ironically, against Bosnia. Since a 0-0 draw at the last World Cup against England, the US have lost to the Netherlands, Serbia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Belgium and Portugal, and twice each to Germany and Turkey. Many of those losses came against elite teams, as the US -- who did not have to qualify, as World Cup co-hosts -- opted for a strategy of testing themselves in friendlies against the best nations.

The preparations seem to have paid off so far. The co-hosts got their tournament off to a flying start with one-sided wins over Paraguay and Australia, before losing a meaningless final group-stage clash to Turkey with a much-changed team. The US have also been boosted by the return to full fitness of star forward Christian Pulisic, who came off the bench against Turkey last week, and is available to start.

They are 46 places above Bosnia in FIFA's latest rankings. The Bosnians scraped through to their first-ever World Cup knockout match appearance by finishing third in Group B after beating Qatar. But Pochettino dismissed suggestions that his team is simply expected to win. "First of all, I don't believe that we are the favorite team," said Pochettino. The US coach pointed to the eliminations of Germany and the Netherlands, and Brazil's narrow win over Japan, in the round-of-32 so far.

"We need to be careful when we say, 'okay, one is favorite, another no,'" he said. "I understand that maybe because we are USA and we host the World Cup and we are here and maybe we have the fans on our side -- but I think we have full respect" for Bosnia, Pochettino added. Bosnia's coach Sergej Barbarez took a different view on pre-match expectations. "Well, look, of course, they are favorites," he said. "Their place in the table, they are the host... the names in this team. Definitely. "We never had a problem with being an underdog," he added. 

Belgium began their World Cup campaign with successive draws against Egypt and Iran in Group G but claimed top spot courtesy of a 5-1 rout of New Zealand. Romelu Lukaku, Belgium's all-time record scorer, played barely an hour for Napoli this past season due to a nagging hamstring injury, but he has made an impact off the bench at the tournament. Jeremy Doku missed his team's second game to attend the birth of his son in London, while Charles De Ketelaere also sat out the 0-0 draw with Iran because of a knee concern.

"Jeremy, Romelu are getting better. Charles, I think that his problem is over as well," said Garcia, underlining a renewed sense of optimism around the squad. "We wanted to end first in the group and this is what we did," Garcia said. "I wish we had won more games, all the games, but we're not going to go back in the past. What matters now is that we progressed out of the group stage."

Attention now turns to Senegal, with Belgium aware that the margin for error has narrowed significantly as the tournament enters its knockout phase. Atalanta forward De Ketelaere said Paraguay's shock win over Germany on Monday showed nothing can be taken for granted at this stage. "I don't think it matters who is the favourite," said De Ketelaere. "It matters that we have confidence in ourselves and that we are sharp tomorrow to just go win this game, because yesterday showed us that to be favourites or not, it doesn't matter. "We need to be alert and sharp to win the game."

Only Lionel Messi, with six, has more goals so far at the tournament. Haaland led the Norway squad on a rendition of their now-famous "Viking Row" celebration on the pitch and told broadcasters: "This is unbelievable. "I can't swear, but it is unbelievable. This is history." Haaland's goal gave Norway their first win in a World Cup knockout match and sent them into a last-16 showdown with Brazil.

He has scored in each of his last 13 competitive internationals, scoring 25 goals in that run. Norway will be underdogs against Brazil but captain Martin Odegaard said with Haaland up front they always had a chance. "It's amazing to have him in the team, we're lucky to have him and it's just about giving him as many opportunities as possible," he said.

Stale Solbakken, Norway's coach, hailed the 25-year-old Haaland as "the greatest goalscorer in the world". "There's no doubt about that. Today he wasn't that much involved. I think he had one big chance in the first half, and now he's scored the winning goal again. "It brings a calmness to the team when you have a player like him, who is in my way very underrated in terms of keeping the ball.

"Because you see he didn't lose one ball today. "To score five goals in the World Cup in three games, for a little country like Norway... I wouldn't swap him for anyone. "Because he's the greatest goal scorer in the world of football today." Amad Diallo, who had equalised for the Ivory Coast in the second half before Haaland struck, said the powerful centre-forward needed no second chances.

"I would say that the second goal was too easy," said the Manchester United winger. "We gave one man too much freedom. When you leave a striker of his calibre all alone, it eventually catches up with you." Former England forward Wayne Rooney told the BBC that Haaland made the Norway side what they are. "Norway are a very good team, and purely because of that man," said Rooney.

"Because of his goals, he has proven that he belongs at this World Cup level. "He is just devastating. He wasn't in the game much, but he came up with the winning goal." 

Norway took the lead late in the first half after a wonderful goal by Antonio Nusa. Substitute Amad Diallo levelled with a fine goal of his own in the second period only for Haaland to pop up unmarked at the death to break Ivorian hearts. Norway now face Brazil in the last 16.

"Maybe we lacked a bit of maturity, especially after the equaliser," said Fae, who took Ivory Coast to the first World Cup knockout match in their history. "Maybe at the end we should have tried to hold on and take it to extra time." The Ivory Coast, one of the youngest teams in North America, pushed hard for a second leveller but Norway just about held out.

"When you're not able to score, you need to know how to stay solid defensively and not give the slightest opportunity to players like that," Fae said of goalscorer supreme Haaland. He added: "I think we've grown a lot thanks to this competition, it's the first World Cup for these players." Fae dismissed the notion that he should have started Manchester United winger Diallo. "We knew he would give us a lot when he came in, and that's what he did," he said.

"Due to adverse weather conditions in Mexico City, including risk caused by lightning in the vicinity of the stadium, the kick-off of the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between Mexico and Ecuador has been delayed to 20.00 local time," world football's governing body said. It added: "The safety and security of all individuals is FIFA's priority."

Earlier, spectators in the stadium were informed by a message on a scoreboard that: "The match has been delayed." It is the first time at the 2026 tournament co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada that the start of a game has been delayed due to the weather. The group game between France and Iraq in Philadelphia on June 22 was interrupted at half-time for around two hours due to storms.

"We all shared the dream of making history at this World Cup, but we fell short. No one is more disappointed by that than I am. "As head coach, the responsibility ultimately rests with me."

The Netherlands had been tipped to make a run deep into the tournament but Morocco beat them 3-2 in a penalty shootout after the match in Monterrey had finished 1-1 at the end of extra time. The Netherlands were leading 1-0 in the final minutes of the match thanks to a Cody Gakpo goal, but they conceded an equalizer deep in stoppage time when Issa Diop scored.

The French were on top throughout against a limited Swedish side, utterly dominating in terms of possession and shots on goal. Olise set up Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola for the second on 53 minutes, and then delivered a delightful pass for Mbappe to complete a convincing victory. Mbappe's strikes saw him move level with Lionel Messi on six goals in the all-star golden boot race at this World Cup.

The France captain now has 18 World Cup goals in total, meaning he is just one behind Messi's overall record of 19 -- a mark which 27-year-old Mbappe will keep chasing. He celebrated his first goal by running across to embrace coach Didier Deschamps, who missed France's final group game against Norway to travel home for his mother's funeral. Deschamps will step down at the end of the competition after 14 highly successful years in charge.

Going out in the last 32 would have been such an anti-climactic way to depart for Deschamps, who captained the first France team to win the World Cup in 1998 and coached them to glory in 2018. In 1998, France's run to victory on home soil included a 1-0 last-16 win over Paraguay, when Laurent Blanc scored a golden goal in extra time. Les Bleus will face the South Americans in the last 16 again this time, on Saturday in Philadelphia.

France will be fully expected to win and march on. Mbappe and Olise were again central figures, with Ousmane Dembele also showing flashes of his brilliance while Barcola was preferred to Desire Doue as the fourth forward. Sweden have quality in attack too, with the Premier League trio of Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak and Anthony Elanga. But they couldn't get enough of the ball to create chances and Graham Potter's team now go home.

Getting this far should really be seen as a success for them, however, after they only made it to North America through the back door of the play-offs. Olise released Mbappe through the middle to put the ball in the net in the 20th minute, only for a tight offside call to cut short the celebrations. However, that sparked an intense spell of French pressure which eventually resulted in the opening goal.

Some of their football was mesmerising, as Mbappe hit the post from a Jules Kounde ball across the face of goal and Adrien Rabiot fired narrowly over. Olise then struck an upright with a breathtaking overhead bicycle kick before Dembele put the rebound wide. The opener came right on half-time, after an Olise effort was tipped behind by Swedish 'keeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

Dembele and Olise combined at the resulting corner before finding Mbappe, and he did the rest. Sweden needed the interval to regroup, but they conceded again eight minutes after the restart as the magical Olise threaded a pass through the legs of Gustaf Lagerbielke for Barcola, who lashed in. Olise couldn't score when clean through, but soon after he delivered an exceptional assist for Mbappe to curl in again on 74 minutes. France look untouchable even if the toughest tests are still to come, although Paraguay will find it hard to live with them.

up a last-16 showdown with Brazil at the World Cup after taming the Ivory Coast 2-1 in Texas on

Tuesday.

The Manchester City striker prodded in from close range, the ball dribbling in on 86 minutes for his

fifth goal of the tournament.

It was the first time that Norway had won a knockout game in the history of the competition.

After an even first half that was slow to get going, Antonio Nusa fired Norway into the lead six

minutes before the break with one of the goals of the tournament.

Manchester United's Amad Diallo was sent on for the Ivory Coast after an hour and was immediately in

the thick of it, stopping a certain second Norway goal and then grabbing a terrific equaliser on 74

minutes.

With extra time looming, predator supreme Haaland got on the end of a cross by Patrick Berg to make

some Norwegian history.

They face five-time champions Brazil on Sunday in New Jersey with the quarter-finals at stake.

A match between two physical teams was tepid to begin with at the impressive air-conditioned home of

the Dallas Cowboys.

Ivory Coast had a sight of goal after 20 minutes, defender Ghislain Konan bursting into the Norway

box from the left but finding the side netting.

The Ivory Coast players and fans were irate just before the drinks break when the livewire Yan

Diomande was brought down on the break just inside his own half.

Referee Jesus Valenzuela surprisingly did not even book defender David Moller Wolfe.

The 19-year-old winger Diomande, who appears set to join European champions Paris Saint-Germain from

RB Leipzig, was growing into the game.

The African side, one of the youngest at the tournament, were on top and particularly threatening

down Diomande's left-hand side of the pitch.

Haaland had little to feed on but might have done better with a tame header that bounced into the

hands of goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

Then came a moment of genuine class as Nusa, fed by captain Martin Odegaard, cut inside and bent the

ball wonderfully into the top corner.

Odegaard put his hands on his head in disbelief at the strike by the 21-year-old, Diomande's Leipzig

team-mate.

Stale Solbakken's Norway finished the first half on the hunt for a second and Haaland was denied by a

last-gasp block by Ibrahim Sangare, who celebrated as if scoring a goal.

The Ivory Coast, into the knockout rounds for the first time, won their 10th corner to start the

second half.

Nicolas Pepe was denied by the legs of Norway stopper Orjan Nyland as the Ivory Coast piled on the

pressure.

Norway, runners-up to France in the group stage, were inches away from a second when Diallo blocked

the ball on the goal line following a corner.

The Norway fans, sensing the next round was close, began their now-famous rowing in the stands.

Almost as soon as they stopped, Diallo danced into the box past two challenges for a spectacular

leveller.

Then up popped Haaland to break Ivorian hearts, with goalkeeper Nyland pulling off a flying stop from

Diallo's well-struck free kick at the death to send Norway through.

Julian Nagelsmann after Germany's shock World Cup elimination, saying there would be no business as

usual after the "crushing" last-32 defeat.

Germany were eliminated on penalties by minnows Paraguay on Monday, continuing a decade of poor

performances at major tournaments.

Four-time World Cup winners Germany suffered early eliminations at the past three World Cups and have

failed to make it past the quarter-finals at the last two Euros.

Monday's defeat was Germany's first knockout match at a World Cup since they beat Argentina in the

final in 2014.

DFB president Bernd Neuendorf announced that an investigation into Germany's World Cup failings would

be conducted, with Nagelsmann's future as well as other structural changes to sport presumably on the

table.

On Tuesday, Germany reportedly cancelled a planned press conference and instead issued a statement

which apologised to fans for the "bitter defeat".

Neuendorf confirmed he already met with Nagelsmann and sporting director Rudi Voeller to discuss the

elimination.

"We are in agreement that our performance at the World Cup fell short of our standards," Neuendorf

said in the statement.

"In the coming days, we will calmly and collectively discuss why the team was unable to realise its

potential and failed to meet both its own expectations and those of the German football community.

"After such a crushing blow, we cannot and will not simply return to business as usual as we look

toward the tasks ahead."

Appointed in 2023 after his predecessor Hansi Flick became the first Germany coach in history to be

sacked, Nagelsmann has a contract until 2028 but has come under fire since the defeat.

Lothar Matthaeus, a 1990 World Cup winner with West Germany, said the DFB should not continue with

Nagelsmann and criticised the coach for a lack of imagination.

Mats Hummels, who won the World Cup in 2014, said there must be "consequences for the people in

charge" as a result of the early exit, adding Germany's disappointing results "were not a

coincidence".

After the match, Voeller called Nagelsmann "a top coach" and "a fighter", but would only give the 38

-year-old a qualified endorsement.

"I'm still convinced he's probably the right man to continue," he said. "But I'm not the DFB on my

own. It's not my decision alone."

Former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund coach Jurgen Klopp, who is often mentioned as a potential

successor to Nagelsmann, said Monday it was not the right moment to discuss him taking over the job.

"I haven't thought about it yet. I've often been in that situation myself as a coach, where a big

dream has been shattered," Klopp said during his work as a pundit on German TV.

"I understand that when people talk about the national coach, my name is mentioned. But it's not the

right moment to talk about it, especially not with me."

themselves down after bruising scares that exposed chinks in their armour.

Relieved to survive the first round, reigning champion Sinner and seven-time winner Djokovic headline

the last 64 action on Wednesday.

French Open champion Mirra Andreeva faces former Wimbledon winner Barbora Krejcikova in a fascinating

women's clash.

AFP Sport takes a look at three matches to watch on the third day of the tournament (x denotes

seeding):

Novak Djokovic (SRB x7) v Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE)

Djokovic leads head to head 12-2

-- Djokovic's latest attempt to make history by winning a record 25th Grand Slam singles title got

off to a rocky start as he laboured against unheralded Wu Yibing in the first round on Monday.

It took Djokovic over three hours to finally subdue his Chinese opponent in four gruelling sets,

prompting the Serb to admit he got lucky.

"I dropped my level. I was really hanging on the ropes in the fourth. I probably should have lost

that set to be honest. I was lucky he missed the overhead," he said.

"The match was toe to toe. One or two shots decided the winner. I managed to fight and stay focused

till the end. It's one of these matches that we have to dig deep."

Bidding to become the oldest man to win a major title in the Open era, Djokovic -- who hasn't

triumphed at Wimbledon since 2022 -- has increasingly looked his age over the last two Grand Slams.

The 39-year-old crashed out in the French Open third round, blowing a two-set lead against Joao

Fonseca, after underwhelming displays in the first two rounds.

But Djokovic can take heart from his dominance against world number 87 Tsitsipas.

He has won their last 11 meetings, including the 2023 Australian Open final and the 2021 French Open

final.

Jannik Sinner (ITA x1) v Nuno Borges (POR)

Sinner leads head to head 1-0

-- Rattled by an unexpected bout of nerves and exposed by his lack of match action on grass this

year, Sinner was fortunate to avoid becoming only the third defending men's champion to lose in the

Wimbledon first round.

Sinner was playing his first match since a shock second round loss against Juan Manuel Cerundolo at

the French Open.

The Italian world number one was in danger of another embarrassment after an awkward fall in the

third set left him nursing a bloodied foot and a two-sets to one deficit.

But, showing the spirit and stamina that helped him end Carlos Alcaraz's two-year reign as Wimbledon

champion in 2025, Sinner scrambled out of trouble to book his date against world number 48 Borges.

"I got lucky there because things can go wrong very, very quickly. I try to still trust in my

movement," Sinner said of his Centre Court tumble.

"First round is never easy, as we saw. It was very nervy, but very happy that I found a way."

Barbora Krejcikova (CZE) v Mirra Andreeva (RUS x5)

Andreeva leads head to head 3-1

-- Andreeva advanced from her previous Wimbledon showdown with Krejcikova in 2023 when the injured

Czech withdrew after the Russian raced into 6-3, 4-0 lead.

That was Andreeva's Wimbledon debut campaign as an unknown 16-year-old, while Krejcikova was just 12

months away from winning the All England Club crown for the first time with a surprise run that

culminated in final victory over Jasmine Paolini.

Fast forward three years and the roles are reversed.

Andreeva, 19, is now tennis royalty after fulfilling her potential by winning her maiden Grand Slam

title at the French Open recently.

In contrast to the fifth seed's ascent, the 30-year-old Krejcikova has plummeted to 38th in the

rankings after a dismal injury-plagued run including first-round losses at the Australian and French

Opens this year.

Krejcikova hopes her first-round win over Hannah Klugman heralds a return to form, but Andreeva, who

beat Magda Linette in straight sets to start her campaign, will be a far tougher test.

Bradley Barcola scored France's other goal as Les Bleus produced another dazzling exhibition of attacking football that underscored their status as favourites for the title. Sweden manager Graham Potter had warned beforehand that his team would have to produce the game of their lives to have a chance of containing France's multi-pronged offensive arsenal. But after France were held at bay for most of the opening 45 minutes, Mbappe finally broke the Scandinavians' resistance on the stroke of halftime, jinking into space before rifling home.

Barcola made it 2-0 on 53 minutes before Mbappe added a second in the 74th minute to seal a victory that sends France into a last 16 duel with Paraguay in Philadelphia on Saturday. "I know who I am and what I've got to do, but it's not just me, I think the team is perfectly aware of what we have to do here," Mbappe told French broadcaster beIN Sports. Earlier Tuesday, in-form Manchester City striker Haaland fired Noway to their first ever World Cup knockout win in a 2-1 defeat of Ivory Coast at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Haaland swept in an 86th-minute winner to slam the door on Ivory Coast's hopes of a fightback after Amad Diallo had equalised for the Africans following Antonio Nusa's opener for Norway. The Norwegians -- beaten in both of their previous opening knockout round appearances in 1938 and 1998 -- will face Brazil in the last 16 on Sunday with a place in the quarter-finals up for grabs. Haaland will head into that meeting brimming with confidence after taking his tally for the tournament to five goals, one behind joint top-scorers Messi and Mbappe.

Ivory Coast's Diallo came within a whisker of grabbing an injury time equaliser, but his curling free-kick destined for the top corner was saved by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland. The victory was a vindication for Norway coach Stale Solbakken, who had faced stinging criticism after benching Haaland and fielding a second-string team in their final group game, a 4-1 thrashing by France, last week. Solbakken saluted Haaland as the "greatest goalscorer in the world" after Norway's win. "To score five goals in the World Cup in three games, for a little country like Norway... I wouldn't swap him for anyone," Solbakken said.

"Because he's the greatest goalscorer in the world of football today." Later Tuesday, Mexico will aim to reach the last 16 knowing that if they beat Ecuador, they will remain in their capital city to face the winner of Wednesday's tie between England and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Ecuador Football Federation (FEF) lodged an official complaint with World Cup organisers on Tuesday after Mexican fans besieged their team's hotel in Mexico City late Monday, in an apparent attempt to disrupt players' sleep. "This behavior is far removed from the principles of fair play, equity, and unity that a football World Cup should represent," the FEF noted in an official statement on social media. Mexican fans arrived at Ecuador's hotel in a caravan of cars and motorcycles according to footage published by local newspaper Reforma. 

Around one hour into the festivities however, the mood soured as riot police arrived on the scene, deploying water cannon and conducting baton charges to clear the crowd. AFP reporters saw around a dozen arrests, with police pinning several young men to the ground after striking them in the legs with batons. Handcuffed, they were driven away in police vans. Dutch police on bicycles played a cat-and-mouse game with youths through the streets but there was no major damage caused.

Despite multiple attempts, people declined to speak to the media, preferring to keep their identities secret. Many on the streets wore balaclavas or other face coverings. The last-32 match in Monterrey ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw after extra time, leading to a nailbiting penalty shoot-out. After several misses on both sides, Morocco striker Ismael Saibari, who plays in the Netherlands for PSV Eindhoven, slotted home the winning penalty to set up a last-16 clash with co-hosts Canada.

Orlando Gill was the hero for Paraguay in their shoot-out defeat of Germany, saving from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade to give them a crucial advantage. Paraguay blew two chances to win it before Jose Canale blasted in the winning spot-kick after Germany's Jonathan Tah blazed his effort over the bar.

Germany had never lost a penalty shoot-out at a World Cup on four previous occasions since the 1982 finals in Spain. "Obviously, we analysed every player and every detail of the penalty-takers," 'keeper Gill said afterwards. "Thank God I was able to save two penalties. This is a privilege; we eliminated a champion." Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, who sat stunned on the bench after the defeat, said simply: "We didn't do enough today."

The match had gone to penalties after the two sides finished extra-time locked at 1-1. Tah had seen a headed goal controversially disallowed after a VAR review in extra-time. Earlier, Julio Enciso had given Paraguay a 42nd minute lead before Arsenal forward Havertz equalised for Germany nine minutes into the second half. Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the last 16, who play on Tuesday.

Another shock had looked on the cards when Brazil squeezed past Japan 2-1 in Houston to book their place in the last 16 thanks to a 95th-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli. Japan had threatened to pull off one of the all-time great World Cup upsets after Kaishu Sano fired them into the lead with a superb 29th-minute goal on the counter-attack. But Brazil equalised on 56 minutes, Casemiro nodding in at the far post after a superb curling cross from the left by Gabriel Magalhaes.

Japan appeared to have done enough to force extra time, but paid the price after Ao Tanaka conceded possession on the edge of the area in injury time. The ball found Martinelli, who took a touch before burying the winner. "I can't find the words to describe the joy in my heart. Seeing all those fans on their feet, my parents, my friends... I can't explain it," said Martinelli. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said his team would depart the tournament with heads held high.

"Even people who don't really know or pay much attention to football have come to see that Japan is fighting to become world champion and is growing and challenging itself," Moriyasu said. Brazil will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the last 16. In Monday's other last 32-clash, Morocco set up a last 16 clash with co-hosts Canada on Saturday after beating the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties in Monterrey. The game had finished 1-1 following extra-time.

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made the crucial save to block the Netherlands' fifth penalty from Crysencio Summerville before striker Ismael Saibari stepped up to blast home the winning effort for the Atlas Lions. The Netherlands had been minutes away from a place in the last 16 after forward Cody Gakpo -- playing just two days after his partner confirmed the death of the couple's unborn sorn -- put the Dutch 1-0 up on 72 minutes.

But Issa Diop glanced in an equaliser in stoppage time to make it 1-1, setting up extra-time and the shoot-out drama. "We needed calm and to realise our abilities," Morocco coach Mohammed Ouahbi said. "We deserved to qualify. Sometimes you have to accept winning in this way when it is a knockout match." Dutch coach Ronald Koeman lamented his team's inability to defend their 1-0 lead.

"Maybe at times Morocco had the better opportunities, the most dangerous moments, but we were leading and they didn't really see a solution," Koeman said. "Then there was a lucky assist that scored a goal, and that's obviously even more bitter when it's in injury time."

"We are in the last 32. That was the aim for the tournament, and now we want to progress from there." Solbakken hailed 25-year-old Haaland, who scored four goals in the group stages, as a "powerhouse" forward. "He's a great leader for us, he leads by example on the pitch," he said. "I think that also he gets great physicality from his mother or his father, maybe his mother.

"He has something that maybe you can't train so much to reach it, the sniff for goals, the feeling that the ball will land at your feet or in that movement and I think that is his biggest strength, together obviously with his explosions, his physicality. "That combined, and the understanding that he is a good teammate on and off the pitch, makes him one of the best players in the world." Solbakken said Norway's style of play had changed since they last featured at the World Cup 28 years ago, with players now more comfortable on the ball.

"Here, there are players who want to use the ball and are used to using the ball and maybe have the strength of using the ball," he said. "So, compared to the 90s where we were last in the World Cup, it was maybe a stronger physical side and we relied much more on set pieces." Solbakken said part of the change in style was due to the "Guardiola school" of possession football, favoured by former Manchester City and Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola.

"I think it (Norwegian football) will be even better in the future -- a great mix between what we used to do and what we do now," he said. But the Norway boss said his team would have to match Ivory Coast's power when they faced each other in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday. "They are a very, very physical team, very strong, and that's the first thing we have to match," he said. "And if we match that, then we can keep our identity defensively and offensively, we have a chance. "But I think it will be a very even, tight game where it can go either way in terms of who is the match winner, who has a little bit of luck on their side."

It did so by beating the Germans on penalties in a nail-biting finish. Cars honking their horns snaked through the capital of the small South American country that does not usually get a lot of attention for anything. But tonight, their team known as the "Albirroja" -- alluding to the blue and red of their jersey -- were kings. President Santiago Pena took to X to echo the joyful national mood, writing "Paraguay never gives up."

He then declared a "national holiday" with a playful swear word -- "carajo" in Spanish -- but left off the last letter, as if to keep things clean. He did not give an immediate date for the holiday. Germany had never before lost a World Cup shootout, but Paraguay held their nerve -- even after two of their players missed kicks that would have sealed victory. Their reward is a potential date with tournament favorites France, if France can get past Sweden on Tuesday.

Amado Salomon, a 58-year-old banker driving in the celebratory procession of cars, said Paraguay "did what it does best: defend with all their heart the whole game, and also in overtime." "This team never stops fighting," he said. Luis Espinola, a 61-year-old hotel employee, put it this way: "With Paraguay you have to suffer until the last minute." He added: "It is part of our identity."

The five-time champions will face either the Ivory Coast or Norway in New Jersey on Sunday after edging a captivating knockout encounter. Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano scored a classy solo goal after 29 minutes following a Brazil mistake to stun the huge numbers of fans decked out in yellow.

Carlo Ancelotti's men hit back 11 minutes after half-time with a header from veteran Casemiro as Brazil dominated the second period. Then up popped Martinelli right at the death, leaving some of their opponents in tears. "I can't find the words to describe the joy in my heart. Seeing all those fans on their feet, my parents, my friends... I can't explain it," said the match-winner Martinelli.

History was against Japan: they had never won a knockout game at the World Cup while nobody has lifted the trophy more times than Brazil. But this is not a vintage Brazil side, even with Ancelotti at the helm, while Japan had been talked of as dark horses. Brazil are attempting to win football's biggest prize for the first time in 24 years. The midfielder Casemiro praised his side for keeping their cool and plugging away until the end.

"I knew the opportunity would come, so the team is to be congratulated mainly for this calmness within the game," said the 34-year-old. "When you score, all the team scores, and when you suffer, all the team suffers," added Casemiro, who left Manchester United this summer. He said it had been "a whirlwind of emotions on the field".

With the Brazil fans' drums providing a constant rhythmic backdrop, Ancelotti's side were on top early on in front of a crowd of 68,777, Images of Neymar on the bench popped up on the big screens, the noise from the Brazil fans going up another notch. Defensive midfielder Sano was booked for crunching in on Vinicius Junior, then Brazilian attacker Matheus Cunha forced goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to turn the ball wide.

Japan, who beat Brazil 3-2 in October in a home friendly for their first victory over the South Americans, then enjoyed a spell in the ascendancy. Just before the half-hour mark Hajime Moriyasu's team took the lead, and it stemmed from an error by Danilo as he gave the ball away with a sloppy pass. Sano, one of four changes from Japan's 1-1 draw with Sweden at the end of the group phase, picked the ball up in the centre circle and got away from Casemiro -- who was on a booking -- with ease.

The Mainz midfielder drove upfield before sweeping the ball past goalkeeper Alisson. It was his first goal for his country. Now the Brazil supporters were edgy, groaning when a move broke down or a pass went backwards. Brazil, whose last World Cup triumph was in 2002, looked unconvincing at the back and ineffective in attack.

Ancelotti was forced into a change at the break, an emotional Lucas Paqueta limping off in distress with the attacking midfielder replaced by 19-year-old striker Endrick. Japan, who thrashed Tunisia and held the Netherlands and Sweden to reach the last 32, had Brazil where they wanted them. Brazil ramped up the pressure to start the second half and Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu twice kept the ball off the line, not that he knew much about it.

Brazil were soon level, Arsenal defender Gabriel sending in an inviting cross for Casemiro to head in unmarked at the back post. The danger man Vinicius, well stifled up until then, turned the Japan defence inside out and stabbed the ball towards Suzuki, who directed it onto the post.

It was all Brazil as they pushed for a late winner, with Vinicius -- who scored four times in the group stage -- increasingly in the thick of it. Then Martinelli, who replaced Cunha on 66 minutes, made his late intervention with Suzuki getting a hand to the ball but narrowly failing to keep it out.

Now the National Weather Service is warning of rampaging temperatures in and around Kansas City, which is hosting matches and is also the training base for Argentina, England, the Netherlands and Algeria. The Midwestern city's Arrowhead Stadium is the location for the last-32 match between Colombia and Ghana on Friday. Monday's advisory from the National Weather Service warned of "dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (41 degrees Celsius) to 110 Fahrenheit expected".

"Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events," it added. "Several days of extreme heat will impact the region with poor heat relief during the overnight hours." The heat advisory runs until 2100 on Friday (0200 GMT Saturday).

The drones were neutralized without force, Giuliani said, without explaining how. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has also "seized over 500 of those drones, to process as evidence in FBI investigations," Doug Olson, the FBI's special agent responsible for coordination around the 2026 World Cup. The United States has made counter-drone operations a centerpiece of its efforts to secure the 48-team tournament, which it is co-hosting with neighboring Mexico and Canada, dedicating several hundred million dollars to the effort.

Local authorities' abilities have been expanded to jam and intercept these devices, and dozens of local police officers serving in the 11 US host cities have received specialized training at an FBI training center. In mid-June, the FBI said it had foiled a planned attack targeting the mixed martial arts fight night held at the White House on President Donald Trump's 80th birthday. The plot apparently involved launching drones loaded with explosives in the surrounding area. During the 2024 Olympics in Paris, French authorities detected more than 350 drone incursions, leading to 81 arrests, according to a report by the National Assembly.

Former Tottenham captain Son was benched for the first half against South Africa, when a draw would have likely been enough to see South Korea advance. Son played throughout the second half but was unable to overturn the 1-0 deficit, an outcome that prompted angry criticism of head coach Hong Myung-bo, who resigned on Sunday in the aftermath. "I honestly don't know where to begin. I can't pretend nothing happened, and I don't want to run away from reality," Son wrote on Instagram.

"First and foremost, I want to offer my sincerest apologies to the people of South Korea and to all the fans who have supported and loved our national football team," he added. Son said South Korea's early exit was hard to fathom, noting: "To be honest, even now, it is not easy to accept this reality." It was widely expected that this year's World Cup -- Son's fourth appearance -- was likely to be his last and questions linger about whether he will continue representing the national team after the tournament.

Son did not address the retirement issue in his post but said he would do everything he could to win back the hearts of the fans. "Rather than try to express everything in words now, I will do everything I can, from where I stand, to win back the hearts of the South Korean people and football fans," he said. "I will fight with everything I have to bring joy to you again," added Son, who turns 34 next month.

Last 32

In Houston

Brazil 2 (Casemiro 56, Martinelli 90+5) Japan 1 (Sano 29)

In Boston, Massachusetts

Germany 1 (Havertz 54) Paraguay 1 (Enciso 42) - aet

Paraguay win 4-3 on penalties

Playing later

In Monterrey, Mexico

Netherlands v Morocco (0100 GMT Tuesday)

That is by no means the only English connection in the squad. Aaron Wan-Bissaka was born in London and played for England to under-21 level. Axel Tuanzebe also represented the Three Lions at youth level and could come up against his former schoolmate and teammate Marcus Rashford in Atlanta. Of the 26-man squad, 20 were born outside of Congo -- the majority, like Wissa, in France. The battle for the mineral-rich East Congo has sparked a decades-long conflict between a litany of armed groups and forced families to flee, seeking security in Europe.

"There's a war in East Congo. Every day, every time we wear this shirt, we think about them," added Wissa. "Because we want peace and for them, I just say 'thank you'. Thank you because we came from far. We came from nothing to be here. Now we write our story with a black pen and we need to be proud." The roots of an inspiring story on the field come from that tragic backdrop. Sourcing and recruiting dual-national players has become crucial for smaller nations to punch above their weight in international football.

Wan-Bissaka was one of those who initially needed some convincing. Signed by Manchester United for £50 million ($66 million) when just 21, DR Congo swooped when the England career he imagined he would have failed to materialise. But as the Leopards' star has risen, players are becoming increasingly keen to join the Congolese cause. Noah Sadiki represented Belgium at youth level and would almost certainly now be a mainstay for the Red Devils had the Sunderland midfielder not switched allegiance.

"There is a new generation that wants to help the people of the country," Sadiki told French sports paper L'Equipe. Competing as Zaire in 1974, the country's only previous World Cup ended in embarrassment with 14 goals conceded in three defeats. Over half a century on, Congo's new generation have given a nation reason to dream.

The outbreak of Ebola that has claimed more than 300 lives had had an impact on the team's World Cup preparations. The United States imposed a 21-day isolation period on players in Belgium before they were allowed to enter. Their most famous fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga -- known for his statue-like pose honouring the country's first prime minister Patrice Lumumba -- was denied entry to the US.

But the team led by Sebastien Desabre, a Frenchman, has defied the odds. Congo eliminated African powerhouses Cameroon and Nigeria in qualifying before sealing their place with victory over Jamaica in an inter-continental play-off in March. Desabre's men then thwarted Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal as Wissa's header secured a 1-1 draw in their opening World Cup game.

A narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia meant they had to beat Uzbekistan to reach the knockout stages for the first time. Roared on by thousands from the Congolese diaspora in the stands, Wissa was the hero once more in a 3-1 win. The challenge of England, one of the favourites for the competition, awaits. But Congo are unlikely to be overawed given the hurdles they have scaled to get to this stage.

But they were knocked out in the last 32 and have now failed to win a World Cup knockout game in five attempts. Football has to compete with baseball and a host of other sports in Japan and Kamada thinks that has to change if they want to progress. "To become a country with serious ambitions of lifting the trophy, you need to have more quality and there are areas where we're still lacking," the Crystal Palace player said.

"We have to keep hyping up Japanese football and making it better, and I feel that if it doesn't get to a level where it's Japan's national sport, we won't be able to win it." Japan took the lead in the first half against Brazil but conceded an equaliser 11 minutes after the break. As extra time seemed likely, Gabriel Martinelli struck in the 95th minute to send Brazil through and leave Japan wondering what they have to do to join world football's elite powers. "It's a shame we lost but if you look at the process leading up to the game and the three and a half years leading up to this World Cup, I don't think there was anything negative or lacking or wrong," said defender Shogo Taniguchi.

"That's how positive and confident I was coming into this." Japan breezed through the World Cup's Asian qualifiers and were the first team to book their place at the tournament. They tuned up by claiming first wins over Brazil and England in friendlies but were then struck by injuries, losing key players Kaoru Mitoma, Takumi Minamino and Wataru Endo ahead of the tournament. Japan still impressed in North America, drawing with the Netherlands and Sweden and beating Tunisia to finish Group F as runners-up.

Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki said there was room to improve. "There are still areas where we're a little naive, and I strongly feel that we need to grow," said the 23-year-old, who enhanced his reputation with a series of outstanding displays. "I don't think it was wrong to approach games against the big teams with the mindset of underdogs and I think if we keep on this path, a great view awaits us at the end."

Japan's next assignment is the Asian Cup, which kicks off in Saudi Arabia in January. They have won the tournament a record four times but their last title was in 2011. "The next tournament for us is the Asian Cup, and we will focus on winning that," said Moriyasu, whose future with the team remains unclear after eight years in the job. "Even if we win the Asian Cup, I don't think it will wash away the pain of losing at the World Cup."

However, Jonathan Tah had a goal chalked off and Paraguay won 4-3 in a dramatic shootout as goalkeeper Orlando Gill made two crucial saves, after a 1-1 draw. "I experienced it with great intensity, like everyone," said Alfaro. "It was a match full of tension from start to finish because we knew we were facing one of the main title contenders, a rival of enormous quality who, beforehand, were favourites." Alfaro said his team executed the game plan effectively, limiting Germany's ability to impose their style.

"The players understood perfectly what the match required and put in a huge effort to prevent Germany from finding spaces and playing their game," he said. He acknowledged the physical toll of the contest, pointing to the demanding conditions on a hot day in Massachusetts. "It's true we lacked certain things, but the demands of the match were very high. The temperature was high and the constant effort to recover and close down spaces often left us with less energy to attack," Alfaro added.

Germany had never before lost a World Cup shootout, but Paraguay held their nerve -- even after Antonio Sanabria and Fabian Balbuena missed kicks that would have secured victory. Even that, Alfaro felt, was part of Paraguay's identity. "It seems if we don't suffer, it doesn't count. The shootout was dramatic, going to the sixth penalty," he said, before dedicating the win to supporters.

"This qualification is for all Paraguayans who believed in us." Paraguay won a World Cup knockout match for only the second time. Their reward is a potential date with tournament favourites France, if Didier Deschamps' side can get past Sweden on Tuesday. Enciso, who plays for Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, acknowledged the challenge ahead but said he was confident Paraguay can keep their unexpected run going.

"They're a very good team, with players of the very highest level. No need to name them, they're stars. They win everything and we're going to prepare to face them as such," said Enciso, who came off with an injury in the second half. "We also have our own strengths, and with our style of play, we're going to try to make things difficult for any opponent."

A win in the next round would allow Paraguay to match their best World Cup result. They reached the quarter-finals in 2010 before losing to a late goal against eventual champions Spain. Enciso attributed Paraguay's victory over Germany to the team's fearless mentality. "We respected them a lot because we knew their players. They have some very good players. But we're not afraid of anyone," he said.

"I want to continue, but in football you don't always have it in your own hands. "If the DFB (federation) wants me to, then I will prepare for the European Championship and the Nations League." The loss to the South Americans was the first time that Germany have ever lost a penalty shootout at a World Cup. Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who was at the match in Massachusetts working for German broadcaster MagentaTV, has long been rumoured as a future coach of the national team.

But Klopp refused to be drawn on the possibility on Monday. "I understand that my name is being mentioned, but this is not the moment to talk about it -- and especially not with me," Klopp said.

Shigenobu Katsumura, wearing a blue Japan shirt and scarf, told AFP that he was proud of the team's effort but disappointed by the manner of their defeat. "To take an opponent like Brazil as far as that, you don't know what would have happened if it had gone to extra time," said the 55-year-old. "There was still a chance, so to have that chance snuffed out is frustrating." Japan beat Brazil for the first time in a friendly in October last year in Tokyo and their supporters believed they could shock them again.

The time difference between the World Cup in North America meant fans in Japan were able to watch their team's three group-stage games at a reasonable time, with most kicking off around breakfast time or even later. Fans had to choose between setting an early alarm or staying up all night for the game against Brazil, which ended around 4:00 am local time. "I've been up all night," said 29-year-old office worker Noa Takagi.

"I'm going to go home and then go to work tomorrow. Oh no, it's actually today. I'm going to work today, from 8:30." The fans gave a collective gulp before kick-off as they watched Brazil's players sing their national anthem in their iconic canary yellow shirts, blue shorts and white socks. But apprehension turned to joy in the 29th minute when Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano drove upfield before sweeping the ball past Brazil goalkeeper Alisson for the opening goal.

The nerves returned when Brazil equalised 11 minutes into the second half, and the tension reached fever pitch when the South Americans laid siege to the Japanese goal as the game moved into injury time. Martinelli punctured Japan's hopes when he popped up at the death to score the winner, leaving fans to stagger out into the Tokyo morning in search of answers. "I thought we could win, so the end was disappointing," said 35-year-old Tomo Yoshida, wearing a curly blue wig poking through his straw hat.

"I think Brazil showed what a strong football country they are. They were very good." Japan had said they were aiming to win the World Cup, an ambitious target for a team that had never won a knock-out game at the tournament. That unwanted record remains after their latest disappointment, but supporters were at least proud that they had given Brazil a run for their money. "I came here for the first game against the Netherlands and the atmosphere was completely different today," said fan Katsumura. "The passion is different when you get to the knockout stage."

Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved from Havertz and Nick Woltemade, but his teammates blew two chances to win it before Jose Canale blasted in the winning spot-kick after Tah had blazed his effort over the bar. It marked another premature exit for Germany who were playing in their first knockout-stage appearance since winning the 2014 World Cup. Paraguay celebrated arguably their greatest win at the tournament, but they face the daunting prospect of running into an in-form France next should Les Bleus beat Sweden.

Julian Nagelsmann handed Deniz Undav his first start of the tournament, after the Stuttgart striker scored three times in the opening two games as a substitute. He came in for Jamal Musiala as Nathaniel Brown returned at left-back, having missed the Ecuador loss as a precaution due to a minor injury.

Miguel Almiron was recalled by Paraguay following a one-match ban after becoming the first player to be sent off for covering his mouth during an on-field confrontation under new FIFA rules. Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro had urged his players to grasp the opportunity of a lifetime, and they came close to scoring barely a minute into the game. Junior Alonso found space at the back post from a corner but was unable to beat Manuel Neuer.

Germany's 7-1 win over Curacao in their opener offered a glimpse of their attacking firepower, but it papered over what has otherwise been an often blunt forward line. Undav floated an effort wide as Germany struggled to break down a compact Paraguay defence, and they paid the price when they lost their shape before half-time, allowing Enciso to head home. Paraguay recycled possession after Neuer punched clear a corner, working it out wide on the right for Matias Galarza to fizz in a cross that picked out a completely unmarked Enciso.

Remarkably, it was Paraguay's first goal in the World Cup knockout stage, having failed to score in their previous five matches, including a 1-0 defeat by Germany in the last 16 in 2002. Germany, toothless in the first half, brought Leon Goretzka on at the break but almost conceded again when an under-hit backpass from Joshua Kimmich forced Neuer to race out and stop Enciso doubling the lead. However, they at last breached Paraguay's dogged rearguard when Florian Wirtz cut in from the left and delivered a cross that Havertz glanced into the far corner to ease Germany's nerves.

Paraguay lost Enciso to injury, and with it their main outlet, leading to a growing sense of inevitability that Germany's pressure would eventually tell. But Orlando Gill reacted sharply to claw away Havertz's header from another Wirtz cross and Paraguay bravely clung on to send the match into extra time. Tah thought he had put Germany in front with a powerful back-post header from Nathaniel Brown's looping corner, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review for a foul by Waldemar Anton on the goalkeeper.

Anton headed straight at Gill from another corner, but Paraguay withstood Germany's set-piece barrage and then kept their cool to spring a monumental World Cup upset. 

But Paraguay blew two chances to win it before Jose Canale blasted in the winning spot-kick after Jonathan Tah blazed his effort over the bar. Germany had never lost a penalty shoot-out at a World Cup on four previous occasions since the 1982 finals in Spain. "Obviously, we analysed every player and every detail of the penalty-takers," Paraguay keeper Gill said afterwards. "Thank God I was able to save two penalties. This is a privilege; we eliminated a champion." Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, who sat stunned on the bench after the defeat, said simply: "We didn't do enough today."

The match had gone to penalties after the two sides finished locked at 1-1 after extra-time. Germany's Tah had seen a headed goal controversially disallowed after a VAR review in extra-time. Earlier, Julio Enciso had given Paraguay a 42nd minute lead before Arsenal forward Havertz equalised for Germany nine minutes into the second half. Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the last 16, who play on Tuesday.

Another shock had looked on the cards earlier Monday when Brazil squeezed past Japan 2-1 in Houston to book their place in the last 16 thanks to a 95th-minute winner from Gabriel Martinelli. Japan had threatened to pull off one of the all-time great World Cup upsets after Kaishu Sano fired them into the lead with a superb 29th-minute goal on the counter-attack. Brazil looked stunned by the Japanese opener for the remainder of the half and the Asian giants comfortably protected their lead up to half-time.

But Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti introduced striker Endrick at half-time and the South Americans immediately looked more threatening. They equalised on 56 minutes, Casemiro nodding in at the far post after a superb curling cross from the left by Gabriel Magalhaes. Japan though appeared to have done enough to force extra time, but paid the price after Ao Tanaka coughed up possession on the edge of the area in injury time. The ball found Martinelli, who took a touch before burying the winner.

"I can't find the words to describe the joy in my heart. Seeing all those fans on their feet, my parents, my friends... I can't explain it," said Martinelli. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said his team would depart the tournament with heads held high. "Even people who don't really know or pay much attention to football have come to see that Japan is fighting to become world champion and is growing and challenging itself," Moriyasu said.

Brazil will face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the last 16. In Monday's other last 32-clash, the Netherlands take on 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco in Monterrey, Mexico. The Netherlands are World Cup royalty but have never been crowned, finishing as runners-up in 1974, 1978 and 2010.

Often cited as the best nation never to have won the tournament, they are unbeaten in 15 World Cup matches since losing the final in 2010, if penalty shootouts are excluded. The Dutch did not qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Awaiting the winners will be co-hosts Canada, who became the first team to reach the last 16 on Sunday with a 1-0 defeat of South Africa in Los Angeles.

Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead just before half-time in Foxborough but Kai Havertz levelled for Germany in a game of few chances.

Japan midfielder Kaishu Sano scored a classy solo goal after 29 minutes following a Brazil mistake to stun the huge numbers of fans decked out in yellow. Carlo Ancelotti's men hit back 11 minutes after half-time with a header from veteran Casemiro as Brazil dominated the second period. Then up popped Martinelli right at the death to settle it and send the Brazil fans wild. History was against Japan: they had never won a knockout game at the World Cup while Brazil were record five-time champions.

But this is not a vintage Brazil side, even with Ancelotti at the helm, while Japan have been talked of as dark horses. With the Brazil fans' drums providing a constant rhythmic backdrop, Ancelotti's side were on top early on in front of a crowd of 68,777, Images of Neymar on the bench popped up on the big screens, the noise from the Brazil fans going up another notch.

Defensive midfielder Sano was booked for crunching in on Vinicius Junior, then Brazilian attacker Matheus Cunha forced goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to turn the ball wide. Japan, who beat Brazil 3-2 in October in a home friendly for their first victory over the South Americans, then enjoyed a spell in the ascendancy. Just before the half-hour mark Hajime Moriyasu's team took the lead, and it stemmed from an error by Danilo as he gave the ball away with a sloppy pass.

Sano, one of four changes from Japan's 1-1 draw with Sweden at the end of the group phase, picked the ball up in the centre circle and got away from the 34-year-old Casemiro -- who was on a booking -- with ease. Sano, who plays for Mainz in Germany, drove upfield before sweeping the ball past goalkeeper Alisson. It was his first goal for his country. Now the Brazil supporters were edgy, groaning when a move broke down or a pass went backwards.

Brazil, whose last World Cup triumph was in 2002, looked unconvincing at the back and ineffective in attack. Ancelotti was forced into a change at the break, an emotional Lucas Paqueta limping off in distress with the attacking midfielder replaced by 19-year-old striker Endrick. Japan, who thrashed Tunisia and held the Netherlands and Sweden to reach the last 32, had Brazil where they wanted them.

Brazil ramped up the pressure to start the second half and Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu twice kept the ball off the line, not that he knew much about it. Brazil were soon level, Arsenal defender Gabriel sending in an inviting cross for midfielder Casemiro to head in unmarked at the back post. The danger man Vinicius, well stifled up until then, turned the Japan defence inside out and stabbed the ball towards Suzuki, who directed it onto the post.

It was all Brazil as they pushed for a late winner, with Vinicius -- who scored four times in the group stage -- increasingly in the thick of it. Then came Martinelli's late intervention.

The victory sends Morocco into a last 16 clash with Canada in Houston on Saturday. An enthralling match had gone to extra time after Issa Diop had glanced in a dramatic equaliser for Morocco in the first minute of stoppage time as the Netherlands closed in on victory. The Dutch had taken the lead midway through the second half with a goal from Cody Gakpo, playing just days after his partner had confirmed the death of the couple's unborn son.

Liverpool forward Gakpo sank to the turf and appeared overcome with emotion as he was surrounded by team-mates in a prolonged group embrace. But Morocco forced extra time when an unmarked Diop headed home from substitute Chemsdine Talbi's cross in injury time. Morocco had created the better chances of a fractious encounter, which saw players from both sides flying into tackles to test the patience of Brazilian referee Wilton Sampaio. The Atlas Lions almost took the lead on 20 minutes when Neil al-Aynaoui glanced an Achraf Hakimi corner goalwards only to be denied by a superb reflex save from Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

Verbruggen was pressed into action moments later, this time doing well to tip a vicious strike from Hakimi over the bar. The fierce nature of the contest was on full display midway through the half when Saibari was lucky to escape sanction after elbowing Jan Paul van Hecke in the face. The Dutch continued to enjoy plenty of possession but were unable to convert it into goalscoring chances.

Their best effort came on 44 minutes when Tottenham's Micky van de Ven uncorked a ferocious shot from the edge of the area that was tipped over by Bounou. Van Hecke continued to find himself in the thick of the action, and after bloodying his head in a collision in the penalty area, made his presence felt with a crunching tackle that upended el-Aynaoui just before half-time.

As the half ended Saibari just failed to connect with a cross that flashed across the Dutch goal before going behind. The drama continued into an end-to-end second half, but appeared to have tilted in the Netherlands' favour when coach Ronald Koeman brought on forward Wout Weghorst in a flurry of substitutions after the hydration break. Weghorst made an immediate impact flicking on a long ball to send Summerville bearing in on goal. Summerville crossed to Gakpo, who hurled himself at the ball to score.

The Netherlands, superbly marshalled by Gakpo's Liverpool team-mate Virgil van Dijk, appeared to be heading for victory but Diop's late header sent it to extra-time. Morocco looked to have made the breakthrough when Soufiane Rahimi went through on goal in the 96th minute, only to be denied by a jaw-dropping save from Verbruggen. The Netherlands held on for penalties but despite Morocco missing their first when El-Aynaoui hit the bar, the north Africans recovered to win.

"I've done everything possible to try to get to the start line but after a final scan tonight the niggle I've been managing has developed into a stress fracture," Raducanu said. "I've been medically advised to stop pushing through," added the British number one, who won the US Open in 2021.

Roared on by a partisan crowd, including India superstar Virat Kohli, Kaur's team scored 36 runs in the last two overs to finish on 170-4 and leave Australia needing to achieve a new record chase in any Women's T20 World Cup to preserved their unblemished record. Australia were faltering at 68-3 in the 10th over before Perry, one of the greats of women's cricket, and all-rounder Ash Gardner combined for a superb stand of 100 from 59 balls to take their side to the brink of victory.

Perry made 56 before being dismissed with three runs needed as Gardner finished on 53 not out. Australia, long a superpowers of the women's game, will now be huge favourites when they play West Indies in the first semi-final at the Oval on Tuesday. Unbeaten tournament hosts England face South Africa in the second semi-final, also at the Oval, on Thursday with the final at Lord's on Sunday.

Earlier, South Africa just about retained their composure in pursuit of a lowly target of 118 against Bangladesh. Proteas captain Laura Wolvaardt fell to the first ball of the chase, bowled by a Marufa Aktar inswinger and when Dane van Niekerk was lbw for three, South Africa were 59-3 at the halfway stage. Annerie Dercksen threatened to win the game for South Africa until she edged behind for 45 in the 15th over.

The runs then started to dry up. Marizanne Kapp was run out for 16 and Nadine de Klerk was caught at deep mid-wicket with five runs still needed before Chloe Tryon edged a four and cleared the off-side to seal victory with four balls to spare. But there was no denying South Africa's quality in the field, with Kapp bowling Juairiya Ferdous with the first ball of the match. Sobhana Mostary's 42 kept the Proteas at bay, with Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana making 32 not out but the Tigers were still held to just 117-5 in 20 overs.

"All the players will do what they can for the team and contribute," he said on Sunday. "The team is united and that feeling is getting even stronger now." Moriyasu will again be missing Takefusa Kubo after the winger suffered a knee injury in the 2-2 draw with the Dutch that opened their World Cup.

Japan beat Brazil 3-2 at home in a friendly in October, but Moriyasu said Carlo Ancelotti's side will be a different proposition in Houston. He feels Brazil will want a measure of revenge following that defeat. "It is a different team and they will be more motivated to play against us, they will be intent on beating us," he said. "We feel the match will be very intense," he added.

"We have a chance and it will be tough... we will be at full force." Japan have never gone beyond the last 16 of the World Cup, while Brazil are chasing a record-extending sixth title. Brazil will also have had more time to recover, having finished their group stage a day before their opponents. Moriyasu conceded Japan will be "relatively disadvantaged" as a result, but said it was no excuse. The winners will face Norway or the Ivory Coast next. Four years ago, Japan stunned Germany and Spain in the group stage but then lost on penalties in the last 16 to Croatia. Brazil lost in the quarter-finals, also on penalties to Croatia.

That was not enough for them to progress to the last 32 as one of the eight best third-placed sides, as they missed out by a difference of two goals. Iran's tournament was overshadowed from the start by the ongoing war between the country and the United States and Israel. They moved their World Cup base camp from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana after a dozen of their staff members had their US visas denied.

Iran still played all their matches in the United States but were unhappy at travel restrictions placed on them by American authorities. That included not being allowed to arrive in the US two days before their matches. They were allowed to do that before their final game against Egypt, but still had to return to Mexico straight after. "It is a disaster World Cup. A disaster," said captain Mehdi Taremi after the Egypt draw. "Who is in charge? FIFA. They have to solve every problem here but unfortunately they couldn't since the beginning," he said.

Japan and Brazil meet in Houston with a place in the last 16 at stake, and Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos struck a confident tone. The 32-year-old, who was among several defenders missing from the friendly defeat, said they had taken lessons from that night. "I think that really was a learning experience for us," he said. "Everything that we've been through in the last few years brought us to this point, to this present moment, in the World Cup, and everything is a learning experience.

"It's really a test, and our coach really saw what he needed to see." He added: "I think since then, we have grown quite a bit. "We have changed a lot as a squad. "We have done a lot of adjustments and in the last few games I think we have grown as a team as well." Marquinhos praised the experienced Italian Ancelotti, a serial winner at club level, for bringing stability and tactical nous.

Brazil, chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup crown, were held 1-1 by Morocco in their opening game at the World Cup before beating Haiti and Scotland, both 3-0. They appear to be growing into the tournament, having faced a severe test against Morocco, and Marquinhos said: "There's always a lot of pride playing for the national team. "But we were not coming together at first, (until) the adjustments that our coach made.

"He's an intelligent coach. He really knew how to improve the players," he added, referring to "some turmoil" before Ancelotti arrived in May last year. "Everything has come together... we know that we have quality, we have a great head coach." The 67-year-old Ancelotti, one of the most acclaimed coaches in the modern game, was in typically relaxed mood. "We need a lot of things: A strong mind, a strong heart, a clear mind," he said.

"I think we have to be ready for anything that might take place in a knockout match, and a lot can happen in a knockout match. "I think the team is ready. They're motivated, they're confident." Ancelotti, at his first World Cup as a coach, said no clear favourite to win the tournament had yet emerged. But he has been impressed by Japan, calling them "one of the best teams in the world". "It might be that a few teams did better than others during this first group stage," he said, with holders Argentina and France both especially impressing. "But I don't think a clear favourite has come up yet."

Sinner ended Carlos Alcaraz's two-year reign as champion with a dynamic display of power hitting in the 2025 final. That dramatic showdown, coming so soon after their epic French Open final, was expected to set the stage for a sustained period of dominance by the pair at Wimbledon. But with Alcaraz still sidelined by a wrist injury sustained in Barcelona in April, Sinner is the clear favourite to become the 10th man in the Open era to retain the Wimbledon trophy.

The world number one is bidding for his fifth Grand Slam title and his first since his maiden victory at the All England Club last year. But the 24-year-old Italian arrives in south-west London with a few concerns to banish.

He hasn't reached a Grand Slam final this year and crashed out of the French Open in the second round, blowing a two-set lead against Juan Manuel Cerundolo as he wilted in the stifling Paris heat. For the first time in his career, Sinner has stayed away from the Wimbledon warm-up events, but he is confident the gamble will pay off. "I feel good. I think grass is very different surface obviously. If you play a tournament before here, maybe it's not going the way you would like to, you come here with some doubts. If you don't play any tournament, you don't have these doubts, you just go and play," said Sinner, who will open this year's Centre Court action against Serbian world number 51 Miomir Kecmanovic. In Alcaraz's absence, seven-time Wimbledon champion Djokovic will be one of Sinner's main rivals.

Djokovic, who opens his campaign against China's Wu Yibing on Centre Court, is taking inspiration from fellow veteran Serena as he targets another slice of tennis history. The 39-year-old Serb is chasing an all-time record of 25 Grand Slam singles titles among men and women. Williams' remarkable comeback aged 44 -- motivated by a desire to play in front of her two young daughters -- prompted him to seek out the American legend this week.

"For her to come back after years of being absent from the tour, two children later, and to give so much effort too, not just for her own satisfaction is remarkable," Djokovic said. "I told her that whatever happens, what she's doing is truly inspirational for me personally, I'm sure for millions around the world." Djokovic's most recent Wimbledon triumph came four years ago, he hasn't won any Grand Slam since 2023 and no man of his age has won a major title in the Open era.

And as the sands of time run out on Djokovic's transcendent career, he knows Wimbledon's fast courts, which shorten draining rallies, offer him the best conditions to win that elusive 25th Grand Slam. "I was planning to peak at Wimbledon after the injury of the shoulder that kept me away from the tour for several months," he said. "I have a very good score here, some history. That gives me, of course, a higher dose of confidence."

Elsewhere on Wimbledon's opening day, women's world number one Sabalenka faces Serbia's Teodora Kostovic. Sabalenka is a four-time Grand Slam winner but the Belarusian has never reached the Wimbledon final. Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva, the newly crowned French Open champion, meets Poland's Magda Linette. Serena's eagerly-anticipated first match at Wimbledon in four years comes against Australia's Maya Joint on Tuesday.

"You see why he is the number one player in the world, making that putt on the last," Hovland said. "I'm going to have to bring it tomorrow." Scheffler fired a two-under 68 in the final round while Hovland shot 69 after a late-afternoon storm halted play for 83 minutes to help force an extra day.

"It's nice to be able to hole those putts, keep myself in the tournament," Scheffler said. "It's more fun when you're making the ones to win, but to keep yourself in it is also nice. "I live another day until tomorrow and will be coming out in the morning and see what I can do." American Collin Morikawa, who began the day nine strokes adrift, birdied the 18th hole in heavy rain to shoot a nine-under par 61 and finished third on 260.

England's Matt Fitzpatrick was fourth on 261 after a closing 64 with Wyndham Clark, who won last week's US Open, and fellow American Akshay Bhatia sharing fifth on 262. Scheffler sank a four-foot birdie putt in a downpour at the par-five 13th to seize the lead on 21-under just before play was suspended.

Course workers pushed away puddled rain to make the final five holes playable for the last groups on the rain-softened course. Hovland was two adrift of playing partner Scheffler when golf resumed but sank a 15-foot birdie putt at 14 to reach 20-under while Scheffler made a tricky seven-foot par putt to stay one ahead. "Conditions were getting pretty tough, but doing what I could to stay in it," Scheffler said. "After the delay, it was hard to predict how the ball was going to come out of the grass. It was pretty wet out there. Then it got dark pretty quick."

Scheffler chipped over the green at 15 and sank a par putt from just inside eight feet to stay on 21-under but moments later Hovland -- with Norwegian World Cup supporters in the crowd cheering him on -- made a three-foot putt for his third consecutive birdie to grab a share of the lead. At 17, Scheffler lipped out on a birdie putt from just inside 11 feet and went to 18 level with Hovland, who made a routine par at 18 and watched Scheffler go long on a 27-foot birdie effort before hitting the comeback putt.

"To start the day, I probably would have wanted to do a little better than one-under par," Hovland said. "When we were sitting in the weather delay I was pretty disappointed. "Felt like things had to go my way to have a chance to win or get into a playoff so I'm pretty stoked to have a playoff... I just didn't have it today."

Hovland seeks his eighth PGA Tour title and first since taking last year's Valspar Championship. Four-time major winner Scheffler, an American seeking his 21st career PGA Tour title, took his season opener in the California desert but has not won since. 

Even if they do beat a Paraguay team that finished third in their group on Monday near Boston, Nagelsmann's men could run in to the might of France in the last 16. "When you talk about the German national team, it is all about trying to win every game. It is all about winning the game tomorrow," Naglesmann told his pre-match press conference on Sunday.

"To deal with expectations is just to have a good self-confidence, just to have a good plan, try to give the players a good plan so that they can feel comfortable on the pitch, have the capability to do the right things on the pitch, show what good players they are and just win the game. "It is all about winning in soccer. If you win, everything is perfect. If you lose, everything is shit. So we have to win tomorrow."

The former Bayern Munich coach said his team had committed "tactical suicide" in their defeat by Ecuador despite taking an early lead. Unlike some other managers who took the opportunity to rest a number of key players for their last group match with qualification assured, Nagelsmann named almost a full-strength side for that game but is confident there will be no hangover.

"We need a perfect performance tomorrow," he added, "When I looked at the training session, I can tell you that I'm very happy and the boys, they will bring their A-game tomorrow." Despite Deniz Undav's impact off the bench with three goals and two asissts in the opening two games, Kai Havertz is set to keep his place up front.

The Arsenal forward is looking forward to his first taste of knockout football at the World Cup after Germany bowed out in the group stage in the last two tournaments. "I think in general I just like bigger occasions. I do not know why. I just feel comfortable," said Havertz, who has scored in two Champions League finals, one with the Gunners and one with Chelsea.

"I just hope I can continue that streak on the biggest stage, the World Cup." Havertz scored twice in the hammering of tiny Curacao. But the German attack that shone on home soil at Euro 2024, with Havertz alongside Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala, is yet to click at the World Cup. Havertz and Musiala both had injury-disrupted seasons, while Wirtz struggled to adapt to the Premier League in his first campaign after a œ100 million ($132 million) move to Liverpool.

"We are very close. Obviously, we talk about what we could improve and what we could tweak. We really want to draw on our full potential and we three know that," Havertz added on his relationship with Wirtz and Musiala. "Going into tomorrow's match, we are fully convinced that we can win. I think that the three of us have already played football in a very big stage and we trust in our capabilities."

Four-time winners Germany won Group E but were beaten by Ecuador in their last outing and were also far from convincing in securing a late win over the Ivory Coast. "They are candidates to win the World Cup, but we will give everything on the pitch and this is a very good, very nice challenge," said Alfaro at his pre-match press conference on Sunday.

Argentine Alfaro took over after a disastrous 2024 Copa America when Paraguay lost all three group games. He praised his players' ability to battle back from adversity and believes they have already met their goal just by making it to the knockout stages.

As one of the third-placed sides to progress, Paraguay had to wait for a couple of days after their last match, a 0-0 draw against Australia, to see if they would progress and where their round of 32 game would be. "We only came late last night. It's not the ideal time to prepare a match against Germany, but I really trust this team as a group and their response when faced with adversity," added Alfaro.

"I told the players this is our first World Cup. You can take it in different ways but for me we have to recognise the achievements in what we have done to make it here. "I've learned that only the chosen ones go to the World Cup, only a handful of people, and if you take advantage of the experience that a World Cup can give you, this improves your life." The winners of the clash in Boston face the daunting prospect of running into an in-form France should Les Bleus beat Sweden.

Canada -- playing in Los Angeles despite being co-hosts, after failing to win their group -- will now face the Netherlands or Morocco in Houston in the last 16 on July 4, as South Africa's World Cup adventure comes to an end. "We felt like we could wear them down over time, and it took 92 minutes, but we got there," said Canada coach Jesse Marsch.

The manager said his team could have "made life a little easier on ourselves" by converting multiple good chances earlier in the game. "But obviously the timing of the goal means that the win is incredibly dramatic, and I think the effect that it will have in Canada and the inspiring of people will be immense," he added.

Before the game, Marsch had talked up the "X-factor" of Canada's star Alphonso Davies, available again after a hamstring injury. But the Bayern Munich wing-back, who was yet to appear at this World Cup, remained glaringly absent from the starting line-up. Still, Canada began on the front foot, racking up chances against South Africa's low block.

In the 22nd minute, a pinpoint Eustaquio free-kick found Derek Cornelius wide open on the six-yard line. The Canada center-back utterly mistimed his headed effort. South Africa threatened sporadically on the counter. But in a frenetic period just before half-time Canada came agonizingly close. From a corner, Moise Bombito's header was cleared off the line, before Tajon Buchanan's follow-up shot was blocked by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

Moments later Khuliso Mudau crashed into the dangerous Richie Laryea, but his penalty appeals were waved away. That enraged a heavily Canadian crowd, and the jeers grew louder after half-time as South Africa were content to exchange deep passes under little pressure while the clock ticked down. Just past the hour mark, Canada came close again.

Substitute Niko Sigur slid a through ball to Tani Oluwaseyi whose shot was well-saved by the goalkeeper and looped up toward Jonathan David -- but defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi just got there first and cleared brilliantly. In the 75th minute Davies finally appeared, to a huge roar, and made an immediate impact.

From the left wing, Davies found Jonathan David who laid the ball to fellow striker -- and no relation -- Promise David, but his shot went wide. Moments later Davies found Jonathan David again. This time he shot from a tight angle, but was denied by Williams. In the second minute of stoppage time, Canada finally broke through, from the other flank.

Jacob Shaffelburg raced down the right wing and pinged in a cross which was headed clear to Eustaquio. The Porto midfielder -- on loan at Los Angeles FC -- chested the ball down and slammed it first-time into the bottom-left corner. Canada's bench streamed onto the pitch as the stadium erupted, celebrating a historic victory. "It's a shame we couldn't do it in Vancouver, in front of our fans," said Marsch.

"But nonetheless, I think you saw the character of the team, the quality of the team, the mentality of the team, the togetherness of the team." South Africa coach Hugo Broos said his defeated side "can be fairly satisfied with what we did" by progressing from the group stage for the first time. "Okay, we are disappointed, we wanted to win, but it would have really been a little miracle if we should have been in the third round," he said.

Bangladesh hasn't lost any Test series since 2024. "Doesn't matter if we bat or bowl first. Winning gives lots of confidence, but it's a new Test match," Shanto said. "With the new ball, it will be more challenging for the batter, more bounce... Scoring runs always gives a lot of confidence. But it's new conditions, we have to adapt to the conditions."

Line-ups:

Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Towhid Hridoy, Amite Hasan (wk), Taijul Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain

Zimbabwe: Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Brendan Taylor (wk), Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Wessly Madhevere, Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava (c), Blessing Muzarabani

Argentine maestro Messi scored his record-extending 19th career World Cup goal after appearing as a second-half substitute in Arlington, Texas.

It was largely uninspiring stuff up to that point, but the opening goal had been coming and Bellingham then crossed for Kane to head in the second midway through the second half. That was Kane's third goal of the tournament after he netted a brace in the opening 4-2 win over Croatia, and the England captain has now moved clear of Gary Lineker as his country's all-time leading World Cup scorer with 11.

Three of those goals came when England thrashed Panama 6-1 at the 2018 tournament in Russia, but the Three Lions did not have things quite so easy this time against hard-working but limited opponents. Questions were perhaps being asked about England's World Cup prospects an hour into this match, following the goalless draw against Ghana in Boston last Tuesday. They have not yet reached the same heights again as in their victory against Croatia, but England advance to the next round on top of the group with seven points out of a possible nine.

Topping the section is important, as it means they avoid a possible clash with Spain in the last 16. Instead they will head to Atlanta for a tie next Wednesday, July 1 against a third-placed team. Win that, and they will be off to Mexico City in the last 16, possibly to play Mexico, in the Azteca Stadium where they lost to Diego Maradona's Argentina in 1986. Tuchel will not be getting carried away thinking that far ahead, and there is surely a lot for England still to do before they are truly ready to take on and beat the tournament's other heavyweights.

That said, it is unlikely they will come up against any more sides who play with such a low defensive block as Ghana did, and as Panama did for much of this contest. The Central American nation, ranked 34th in the world, competed well but created few chances and have still never won a point at the tournament. They lost all three group games at their debut World Cup in 2018, and go out after losing all three matches this time -- all without scoring, with this result following 1-0 reverses against Ghana and Croatia. Tuchel made five changes to his line-up following the Ghana encounter, notably choosing to rest Declan Rice from the midfield. Marcus Rashford and Saka got their first starts of the World Cup on the wings.

Rashford forced a good save from Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera inside the opening 10 minutes, and later headed over an Elliot Anderson cross before curling a free-kick just past in first-half stoppage time. Panama did also threaten once in the opening period, when Jordan Pickford had to get down to stop a Jose Luis Rodriguez shot at his near post.

England were pedestrian before the break, but the match started to open up for them following the restart. Jose Cordoba nearly forced an own goal when his clearance came off teammate Andres Andrade and went narrowly over, and Mosquera then denied Kane. A goal was beginning to feel inevitable and it arrived on 62 minutes as Bellingham held off Jorge Gutierrez at Saka's corner to turn the ball in.

That was his second goal of the competition, and he then turned provider for Kane to make sure of the win. Jose Fajardo then thought he had a late consolation for Panama, but his effort was disallowed for offside. It has probably been England's least remarkable group-stage showing at a World Cup since 2014, when they went out in the first round. This time, however, they are safely through.

The Austrians equalised six minutes into added time through Sasa Kalajdzic to save their World Cup skins, but the Iranians can no longer be one of the best third-placed teams and go out.

And Minamino, who is at the World Cup in a non-playing capacity after suffering a serious knee injury, said they can pull off another surprise. "If we play with the underdog mentality, as we always have, I believe we have the ability to make something happen in these one-off games," said the 31-year-old, who scored in the friendly win eight months ago. Speaking to reporters on Friday at Japan's training base near Nashville, Tennessee, Minamino said attacker Takefusa Kubo could play a part after a knee injury.

The Real Sociedad winger came off in the 2-2 draw with the Netherlands that launched Japan's World Cup campaign. "He is especially spirited, so he needs no encouragement from me," Minamino said, according to Kyodo News. "Everyone believes we will welcome him back in the knockout stage, and he is rehabbing with that same belief."

0 - number of appearances at the World Cup before this tournament. Argentina are three-time champions.

67: Cape Verde's FIFA ranking coming into the tournament. Argentina were number one.

500,000-530,000: Cape Verde's estimated population. Argentina's is about 46 million.

18-2: Number of goals scored by Lionel Messi in World Cup history versus Cape Verde's total.

$920 million: estimated value of Argentina's squad, according to transfermarkt.com. Cape Verde's is worth $62 million.

25.7 percent: Cape Verde's possession stats in the 0-0 draw with European champions Spain.

17 million: Instagram followers of goalkeeper Vozinha. Before the Spain game he had 56,000.

7: saves made by Vozinha to keep Spain out.

32.9 percent - the odds from Opta before the tournament on Cape Verde getting out of a group also containing Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Egypt already knew before kick-off that results elsewhere had secured their place in the last 32, but that did little to dampen the intensity of a ferocious match in Seattle or the determination of fans eager to watch their team finish strongly. The Pharaohs' dramatic 1-1 draw against Iran saw them finish runners-up in their group, level on points with Belgium but behind on goal difference.

In Shubra, the fifth-minute goal shattered the early morning calm. AFP footage showed fans springing to their feet as rows of chairs packed tightly around a glowing screen spilled out into the street, where supporters cheered and clapped through drifting clouds of shisha smoke. Iran later drew level after missing an earlier penalty, before the drama arrived deep into stoppage time when they appeared to score a decisive second goal.

Footage on social media showed fans rising from their seats in frustration, only to return moments later when the goal was ruled out for offside, triggering renewed celebrations. Despite the early kick-off -- an unusual hour in a city known for its late starts -- Cairo erupted. AFP reporters across the capital saw crowds streaming through the streets in cars and on motorbikes, flags fluttering from windows as chants and horn blasts marked the realisation of a long-awaited moment.

There was brief concern when Egyptian captain and record goal scorer Mohamed Salah, who recently turned 34, was forced off early in the second half with an injury. Coach Hossam Hassan later reassured fans. "I spoke with Salah and he told me everything will be fine that it is not a serious injury," he said, adding that further tests would be conducted. Supporters hope the tournament, which may be Salah's final World Cup, will provide a fitting conclusion to his international career.

"Mohamed Salah is a great player," said Mido Hossam, watching the match in Cairo. "He deserves a farewell worthy of his legacy with Egypt," he told AFP. Egypt will now face Australia in Dallas on July 3, with many fans relieved to have avoided Senegal, their longstanding African rivals. This is Egypt's fourth World Cup appearance and only their second since 1990, following their return at the 2018 tournament in Russia. Earlier in the week, they secured their first-ever World Cup victory with a 3-1 win over New Zealand.

Rice, who had strapping on his left calf after the 0-0 draw with Ghana, would miss the last-32 tie if he booked up a booking against Panama. Anthony Gordon, Djed Spence and Noni Madueke are the other players to make way. England are guaranteed a spot in the knockout phase but need to match Ghana's result against Croatia to be assured of finishing in first place. The group winners head to Atlanta to play a third-place finisher on July 1.

Williams has had an injury-disrupted season at Athletic Bilbao and only made brief appearances as a substitute in Spain's three group games. "Today is one of the worst days of my life. I am injured again after a very difficult year," the 23-year-old posted on social media. "Yesterday, I suffered a new injury following an incident where a fellow professional acted out of frustration, unhappiness, and sadness over the situation he was going through. "In my opinion, it was a play that could have been avoided, as it was completely unnecessary. But this won't stop me."

The Spanish Football Federation said Williams had suffered a "moderate" injury and still had a chance to return later in the tournament. There was better news for the European champions as a scan on Yeremy Pino ruled out a fractured collarbone. The Crystal Palace midfielder also now has a chance of returning before the end of the World Cup. The loss of both players would have been a major blow to Spain's chances of winning the tournament with Luis de la Fuente's options in wide areas already limited.

Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal has not played a full 90 minutes in over two months as he is nursed back to fitness after a hamstring injury, while new Liverpool signing Victor Munoz is yet to feature at the World Cup due to fitness problems. After topping Group H, Spain will face either Austria or Algeria in the last 32 in Los Angeles on Thursday.

"The doctor will write his report when we get back to the hotel and will carry out a second examination. I spoke with Salah and, God willing, the injury doesn't seem serious," Hassan said. "I spoke with Salah and he assured me it would be fine, that it's not a serious injury." Egypt will play Australia in Dallas on July 3 for a place in the last 16.

Right-back Italiano played against Turkey and the United States but injured his groin in training and also missed the Paraguay clash. "Jacob Italiano and Mathew Leckie will unfortunately miss the remainder of the World Cup through injury," the Socceroos said in a statement. "Everyone at Football Australia and the Socceroos would like to wish Jacob and Mathew all the best in their recovery and thank them for their contributions during the campaign."

Their absence is a blow to coach Tony Popovic, whose team face Mohamed Salah's Egypt in Dallas on July 3 in a bid to reach the last 16. "I'm gutted for him," said Australia defender Aziz Behich of Melbourne City teammate Leckie, who overcame an injury-wrecked season to make the tournament.

"But it's all part of football. He wished us all well and he said he'll be following us. He's given everything to be here and help us." Behich, who impressed as left wing-back against Paraguay, said confidence was high heading into the all-or-nothing Egypt showdown.

"We know what we wanted to accomplish, and the first step was getting out of the group stages," he told reporters. "We've managed to do that. "Now it's game by game. It's knockout football. It's a lot different to what it was. But the boys know that and we're full of energy and excitement."

With three points, Iran retain hope of qualifying as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Mehdi Taremi had also hit the bar with a header for Iran in the closing minutes of normal time. The Egyptians having learned before the game that they were qualified for the last 32 for the first time in their history due to results elsewhere but that took nothing away from a ferocious game in Seattle. The Pharoahs raced into the lead in the fith minute when Mahmoud Saber stroked home.

Iran fought back and had a golden chance to level five minutes later when Taremi won, but subsequently missed, a penalty. Within minutes Ramin Rezaeian scored from a tight angle to bring the teams level. Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush came on for the second half to inject some fresh impetus into the Egyptian attack.

He made an impact midway through the second half when he curling goalbound shot was deflected for a corner. Mohamed Salah was removed in the 57th minute, looking decidedly unhappy as he exited to make way for Zizo but the former Liverpool legend will no doubt have a role to play when Egypt face Australia in the next round.

Cape Verde's third consecutive draw saw them finish the group with three points, behind European champions Spain who made sure of top spot with a 1-0 defeat of Uruguay. Two-time World Cup-winners Uruguay, who were stunned by Cape Verde in a 2-2 draw last Sunday in their second game, were eliminated from the competition with just two points. Spain's win though came at a cost in a bruising encounter, with Yeremy Pino facing a potentially tournament-ending shoulder injury and Nico Williams suffering a muscle problem.

The Group H results brought further clarity to the knockout rounds, ensuring that England, Portugal, Ghana, Egypt and Paraguay would also advance. Earlier Friday, France lit up the tournament with another dazzling attacking performance, swatting aside Norway 4-1 to clinch top spot in Group I. France's reigning Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele scored a first-half hat-trick as Les Bleus maintained their 100 percent start to the tournament at the Gillette Stadium. The pre-match hype had focused on a duel between France striker Kylian Mbappe and Norwegian counterpart Erling Haaland.

But that much-anticipated showdown never materialised after Norway opted to leave Manchester City star Haaland on the bench. Instead it was left to Dembele to grab centre-stage from team-mate Mbappe, scoring three times in the opening 32 minutes to set up the win. Dembele's PSG team-mate Desire Doue bagged France's fourth in stoppage time to complete the scoring.

Dembele later played down the significance of his quick-fire hat-trick, turning his attention to the bigger challenges awaiting in the knockout rounds. "It's a unique and important moment for me ... I believe we need to stay focused because there are important things ahead," he said. Friday's game had gone ahead against a troubled backdrop for France, with coach Didier Deschamps leaving the team earlier this week following the death of his mother.

Both teams meanwhile paid tribute to the victims of the devastating Venezuela earthquake just before kick-off, lining up for a moment of silence. France will now face Sweden in the last 32, while Norway take on Ivory Coast in Dallas on June 30 for a place in the last 16.

Senegal meanwhile forced their way into the last 32 with a 5-0 drubbing of Iraq in their final group game, boosting their goal difference to win their first points of the tournament. That win, and results elsewhere, ensured the west Africans would had scraped into the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams. In the late games on Friday, Iran's rollercoaster World Cup journey continued as the team battled to a 1-1 draw with Egypt in Group G that left them in third place, nervously waiting to see if they will advance after Saturday's final group stage fixtures.

The Iranians thought they had snatched victory in stoppage time, but Shoja Khalilzadeh's goal was ruled out for a fractional offside. The draw meant Egypt finished second in the group behind Belgium, who finally came good with a 5-1 rout of New Zealand that propelled the Red Devils to the top of the group. A double strike from Arsenal's Leandro Trossard and goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers carried the Red Devils into the last 32 in first place ahead of Egypt on goal difference.

But the Sri Lanka skipper was bowled by Katherine Fraser to set the stage for a nervous finale. Harshitha Samarawickrama (27) and Hasini Perera (23) kept Sri Lanka in contention but they were still in danger of a shock defeat at 118-6. Nilakshi de Silva's 21 not out proved crucial for Sri Lanka, who were taken to the last over before finally sealing the victory.

With Scotland on the brink of ending Sri Lanka's hopes of a last four berth, Sugandika Dasanayaka saved the day, chopping the penultimate ball of the match to the boundary. Sri Lanka moved into third place in Group B after their third win of the tournament. But they still need West Indies to lose heavily to Ireland and England to beat New Zealand on Saturday if they are to advance on net run-rate.

But he ended the game with an issue that could be a bodyblow to La Roja's hopes of World Cup glory. The latest injuries leave De la Fuente desperately short of options in wide areas. Lamine Yamal is yet to play 90 minutes in over two months on his return from a hamstring injury and Liverpool's new signing Victor Munoz has not featured at the World Cup after a setback in his return from a muscle problem.

"Nico was experiencing some slight discomfort. It could be a strain or just fatigue, we'll have to wait until tomorrow to know for sure," said De la Fuente. "However, and I am really sad about this, what really concerns me is Yeremy's injury. It looks bad and there is a very strong possibility he will miss the rest of the tournament." Spain were far from their fluid best in Guadalajara as Alex Baena's goal, thanks to a goalkeeping error from Fernando Muslera, secured top spot in Group H.

The European champions will next face Austria or Algeria in Los Angeles. De la Fuente conceded his side must improve once the knockout stages get underway, but praised Spain's discipline as Uruguay lost their heads in bowing out of the tournament. Some lenient refereeing from American official Ismail Elfath had allowed the South Americans phyiscal approach to thrive until Agustin Canobbio was shown a red card in stoppage time for a wild lunge on Pau Cubarsi.

"I am proud of my players in a match that pushed us to the limit in every sense of the word, physically very demanding and rough, that we stood up to be counted," added De la Fuente. "We know we can find ourselves in games like this and the most important thing is that we rose to the occasion, even if the performance wasn't particularly dazzling. "In football, you can't always play with the brilliance you wish for, or that we are capable of showing at other times. "We maintained an incredibly high level of concentration, responsibility, and composure, and we avoided rising to the many provocations that could have led to serious trouble."

"Ourselves and the people of Cape Verde have to be proud of what the team has done," added the coach, who goes by one name. Cape Verde, an archipelago off the west of Africa, has a population of just over 500,000, many of whom stayed up late into the night to watch the game back home. "First of all, we are proud to be able to play Argentina," said Bubista, whose side are ranked 67th and drew all three of their group games.

That included a stunning 0-0 draw with European champions Spain in their first-ever World Cup match. Of course, for our team, for the players and for all our people, it is a reason to be joyful," he said. "From the very beginning, we've said that one of the purposes we had was to show our country to the rest of the world. "And to be able to play Argentina and Messi in a phase like this is excellent for our country, regardless of the match itself."

Bubista said that other so-called minnows should take inspiration from what his men had achieved against all expectations. "Of course we represent our country, but we also represent Africa. And beyond that, we represent the small countries around the world," he said. "And this is our mission. We are an example that shows that if you work with focus and determination, sooner or later you will arrive at your goal."

Only Paraguay have already played all three of their group matches -- the other four countries still have a group game to play but are already assured of playing in the knockout round of this 48-team World Cup.

The only player to complete a hat-trick earlier in a World Cup match is Erich Probst, who got three inside the first 24 minutes for Austria against Czechoslovakia in 1954. Dembele moves on to four goals at the tournament after also scoring in the 3-0 win over Iraq on Monday, and his display here will perhaps ease some of the pressure on captain Kylian Mbappe to always be France's match-winner.

Desire Doue completed the scoring late on, and the victory allowed France to end the group stage with the maximum nine points -- they have scored 10 goals in three games and advance as Group I winners. France will now stay in the northeastern USA for a last-32 tie against a third-place finisher at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey next Tuesday. It was an emotionally charged day for Les Bleus, who had to play this match without coach Didier Deschamps after he returned to France to attend his mother's funeral. Deschamps, who will step down at the end of the World Cup after 14 years in charge, is due back with his squad on Saturday.

Norway, who also saw Jorgen Strand Larsen have a penalty saved, go through in second place with six points, their progress already having been secured before this game thanks to wins over Iraq and Senegal. That explains why coach Stale Solbakken made 10 changes to his starting line-up here following the 3-2 win over Senegal last time out. Haaland, captain Martin Odegaard and striker Alexander Sorloth were among the players rested, with Benfica's Fredrik Aursnes the only one retained.

The regulars will undoubtedly return in the next round, and Norway will take on Ivory Coast in Dallas next Tuesday. France were without Arsenal defender William Saliba as he rested a sore back, so Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace replaced him. Doue, Theo Hernandez and Aurelien Tchouameni all returned. However, Dembele and Mbappe both kept their places, with the latter winning his 101st cap and looking to add to his 16 World Cup goals and catch up with Lionel Messi's overall tournament record of 18.

But Dembele, a teammate of Mbappe's in the France team that won the 2018 World Cup, stole the headlines with his brilliant hat-trick. Mbappe released the 29-year-old for the early opener, as Dembele cut in from the right, dropped a shoulder and went back onto his right foot before firing across goalkeeper Egil Selvik and in. Dembele was transformed into a Ballon d'Or winner after Luis Enrique, his coach at PSG, moved him from the wing into a central role.

But he caused havoc here coming in from the right flank, scoring his second as he cut infield and curled a low shot on his left foot into the far corner. Aasgaard, of Rangers, pulled one back straight from the restart with a low strike past goalkeeper Mike Maignan with the French defence having switched off. But Dembele curled in his team's third, again on his left foot and into the same bottom corner, albeit this time from inside the area.

Three goals in the space of 25 first-half minutes is not the fastest hat-trick at a World Cup -- that record is held by Hungary's Laszlo Kiss, who needed less than eight minutes against El Salvador in 1982. However, Dembele is now in illustrious company: the only previous French hat-tricks at the tournament were scored by Just Fontaine (twice in 1958) and Mbappe, who netted three in the 2022 final. Norway could have pulled one back early in the second half after Oscar Bobb was tripped in the area by Hernandez, but Strand Larsen's spot-kick was poor and Maignan saved. Doue then headed in France's fourth in stoppage time.

Japan have not missed a World Cup since, and they have openly talked about winning this year's competition in North America, where they face Brazil in Houston on Monday. Not even a showdown with the five-time champions can shake Japan's current confidence, and Troussier believes it is fully justified. "In only one game, everything is possible," the 71-year-old told AFP at France's chamber of commerce in Tokyo on Friday. "Japan have confidence.

They have talent. They have made tremendous tactical progress in the last few years, and they have so many experienced players who play for strong sides in Europe. "Of course Brazil have fantastic players and they are favourites on paper but there are weaknesses that Japan could exploit." Troussier was hired to prepare Japan for the 2002 World Cup on home soil at a time when the country was a minnow on the international stage. The professional J League was only founded in 1993, and the national team at the time featured only domestic-based players.

Young talent like Hidetoshi Nakata and Shinji Ono began to move overseas during Troussier's tenure, and the trend has accelerated over the past two decades. All but three of Japan's current World Cup squad are based in Europe. Many play for clubs in England, Spain and Germany. - Defensive strides - Troussier says he always knew that Japanese players would "make a great improvement" in the future. "I remember seeing young African and European players, and the Japanese players had exactly the same talent," he said. "They were very disciplined and they had tactical smarts -- they only lacked experience, which I believe they have gained over the last 20 years."

Japan have not had things all their own way in North America, and they were left hanging on for a 1-1 draw with Sweden on Thursday. They came through to set up a clash with Brazil, who they beat for the first time in a friendly in Tokyo in October. "When you see the game against Sweden, how they could suffer and defend, it showed that they have come a long way in their defensive culture," said Troussier. Troussier forged his coaching reputation in Africa, where he became known as the "White Witch Doctor".

He returned to France to coach Marseille after leaving Japan in 2002, and he has also coached the national teams of Qatar, Morocco and Vietnam in a globe- trotting career. He is currently taking a break from coaching and is producing wine in Bordeaux. He says he would like at some point to return to Japan, where he says he "thrived the most" in his career. He believes the country is getting closer to winning the World Cup, but he does not expect it to happen this year.

"Realistically speaking, I think they lack a bit of depth on the bench to win five matches in a row when you get into the knockout stage," he said. "In order to do so, they need to improve at a personal level, which means the players in Europe have to play at better clubs. "If they have this personal ambition, they will have a better squad in the end."

John Campbell negotiated a maiden over from Asitha Fernando before the close of play and will resume with opening partner Brandon King on the second morning.

Leading his team into their first taste of the traditional format of the game for exactly one year, de Silva's stroke-filled 120 off 168 balls with 17 fours held the innings together after they were in early trouble on a seamer-friendly surface having been put in to bat.

He came to the crease on a steamy morning with the new ball darting around and Sri Lanka stumbling at 42 for three after veteran Kemar Roach and returning pacer Alzarri Joseph caused early damage to the tourists' innings.

De Silva found resolute support in the shape of Dinesh Chandimal, the former captain contributing an attractive 54 and playing an important role in a stabilising fourth-wicket partnership of 68.

By then the elegant right-hander was in full flow and after Shamar Joseph claimed two wickets in quick succession, de Silva engaged in an even more productive stand with Sonal Dinusha.

The left-hander, in just his second Test, showed impressive maturity by contributing 43 to a 99-run sixth-wicket stand before he was leg before to Roach in the final session.

"It was a wonderful century from the captain," said Dinusha.

"He has maturity and a lot of experience so he executed really well."

Roach, who started the day by removing the dangerous Pathum Nissanka to a catch at short-leg in the first over, had final figures of two for 32, just four wickets away from becoming only the fifth West Indian to reach the plateau of 300 Test wickets.

- Resolve -

As much as the Sri Lankans' showed impressive resolve after slipping to 110 for five just after lunch, the West Indies didn't help their cause with inconsistent bowling while wicketkeeper Joshua da Silva, back in the team after an absence of 18 months, endured a nightmarish return in putting down three chances, the last two relatively straightforward.

One of the men who occupied the role behind the stumps in his absence, Shai Hope, was ruled out of the match just before the start of play with a strained left shoulder suffered in training two days earlier, allowing left-handed batsman Amir Jangoo to also make a Test return.

De Silva's excellent innings was ended by seam bowling all-rounder Justin Greaves via a leading edge. Greaves added two more victims as the innings subsided to finish with his best Test innings figures of three for 39.

While he would have been disappointed at not being able to carry though to the end of the day, the Sri Lankan captain must take immense satisfaction from the resolve he was able to inspire in his team as they familiarise themselves with Test cricket again.

"To get 300-plus in these conditions, I think it's a good effort," Dinusha added. "If we can bowl consistently well in good areas tomorrow we will have a good chance."

Given its seamer-friendly nature through the preceding regional first-class tournament, West Indies put most of their eggs in the fast bowling basket. In contrast, Sri Lanka opted for a more balanced attack with three seamers supported by two spin bowling all-rounders.

It is a decision that may pay dividends later on in the match, especially thanks to their captain's effort on day one.

If Williams beats world number 53 Joint, a 20-year-old who has won just one of her past 14 matches, the American could face 29th seed rising star Alexandra Eala of the Philippines in the second round. A victory in the second round would raise the possibility of a potential blockbuster third round tie against reigning champion Iga Swiatek, who starts her title defence against American Taylor Townsend. Williams, who has been practising at Wimbledon for the past week, last played a singles match nearly four years ago at the US Open in what had appeared to be her farewell to the sport.

She said at the time she was "evolving away" from tennis. But just prior to the Wimbledon warm-up event at Queen's this year, Williams announced her stunning return, a move motivated by a desire to play in front of her two young daughters. She has not played at Wimbledon since losing to Harmony Tan in the first round in 2022. Her last Grand Slam match was the US Open third round defeat against Ajla Tomljanovic that seemed to have brought the curtain down on her astonishing career.

It remains to be seen if Williams can cope with the physical demands of singles competition after so long away from the sport. She looked solid in her two doubles matches at Queen's and Berlin, winning one in London with Victoria Mboko and losing her opening tie with Karolina Muchova in Germany. But Williams has not won a Grand Slam crown since the 2017 Australian Open, with her last major final appearance ending in defeat at the 2019 US Open.

Williams is also playing in the doubles at Wimbledon with her sister Venus. The pair have won the All England Club doubles six times together. In the men's singles draw on Friday, defending champion Jannik Sinner was pitted against Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic.

The Italian world number one has not played since suffering a shock defeat against Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the French Open second round in May. Sinner, a four-time Grand Slam champion, is looking to win Wimbledon for the second time, with his main rival Carlos Alcaraz absent as he continues to recover from a wrist injury. Novak Djokovic starts his latest bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title against China's Wu Yibing.

The 39-year-old Serb has won Wimbledon seven times, but he has not triumphed there since 2022. Djokovic earned his most recent Grand Slam crown at the 2023 US Open, with his last two major finals ending in defeat against Alcaraz at Wimbledon in 2024 and the Australia Open this year. Second seeded Alexander Zverev, who won the French Open in June, faces Alexander Blockx in the first round.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka, 41, takes on Matteo Berrettini in his final Wimbledon campaign. Women's top seed Aryna Sabalenka begins her bid for a first Wimbledon title against Serbia's Teodora Kostovic. Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu is due to start against Antonia Ruzic but fitness doubts surround the British 30th seed. Raducanu did not turn up for her practice session on Thursday having reportedly been seen wearing a protective boot.

On Friday the two forwards will meet in a heavyweight collision at Foxborough, outside Boston at 3:00 pm local time (2000 GMT), with top spot in the group up for grabs. France, who looked majestic in swatting aside Senegal and Iraq, hold a slight advantage, with their superior goal difference meaning Les Bleus need only a draw to clinch first place in the group. But the Norwegians have been equally impressive, routing Iraq 4-1 in their opener before beating Senegal 3-2 on Monday.

Haaland, playing in his first World Cup, has revelled in the global spotlight, playing with a swashbuckling gusto that could well ask hard questions of even France's experienced defence. The 25-year-old has also embraced the tournament off the pitch, delighted at his ability to go sightseeing in New York City in relative anonymity.

After clinching a place in the last 32 with the win over Senegal, Haaland insisted he was nonplussed at the prospect of facing France -- who he regards as favourites for the tournament -- and laughed off suggestions that Norway were title contenders. "To win the World Cup, absolutely not," he told Fox television.

"We've won 12 competitive games in a row now. I'm part of something special, making history, and I'm extremely proud to be Norwegian," adding that he "couldn't care" about playing France. "They're probably going to win against us, they're probably going to win the whole tournament," he said. France and Mbappe's preparations for the game have been disrupted by the departure of manager Didier Deschamps from the team's camp this week following the death of his mother.

Assistant coach Guy Stephan will take charge of the team until Deschamps returns. "I am thinking a lot about Didier and his family," Stephan said. "I am just trying to make a difficult situation as normal as possible." France though will be eager to avoid a slip-up, knowing that finishing second in the group gives them a potentially more hazardous path to the July 19 final.

A defeat would set up a last 32 clash with Ivory Coast, before a potential meeting with Brazil in the last 16. England could potentially lie in wait in the quarter-finals, with Argentina seeded to be their opponents in the semi-final. In other games on Friday, Spain will aim to clinch top spot in Group H with a potentially awkward clash with Uruguay in Guadalajara, Mexico.

The Uruguayans will need to take at least a point from the fixture to have a chance of progressing to the last 32 after being held to a 2-2 draw by lowly Cape Verde in their second game. Spain will clinch first place in the group with a draw. Minnows Cape Verde meanwhile will attempt to continue their fairytale campaign with a victory over Saudi Arabia. In Group G, Egypt will attempt to clinch top spot with victory over Iran in Seattle in a game that has been laced with controversy.

Friday's game is part of city-wide events to celebrate Pride in Seattle, and was designated as the "Pride Match" by local officials before the identities of the teams involved was known. Iranian and Egyptian officials have both raised objections to the Seattle Pride celebrations around their fixture. Homosexuality is illegal in Iran under Islamic law and can be punishable by death. In Egypt, homosexuality is often penalized under vaguely worded laws prohibiting "debauchery." In the other Group G game, Belgium's ageing squad featuring Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku will attempt to reach the knockout rounds with a victory over New Zealand.

For Turkey, already eliminated and without even a goal after disastrous losses to Paraguay and Australia, the only objective was to restore some pride. Having gone ahead early and then clawed back an equalizer after two Turkey goals, the US fell to a Kaan Ayhan winner deep in stoppage time. "We had other priorities. We did want to win, we wanted the victory, but there were other things that we need to balance out, and I made the very best decisions," said Pochettino, who made nine changes to his lineup ahead of the Bosnia clash.

"What does it mean to win three (group) matches if you're going to be losing the next one, and you're not going to be winning the World Cup?" he asked a notably tense and spiky press conference after the game. For the third game running the US had got off to a dream start. Backup center-half Auston Trusty scored unmarked at the far post from a corner. It was the Celtic defender's first international goal, and -- at just under three minutes -- the second-fastest by the US at a World Cup.

But Turkey did not surrender. Having not scored in 62 efforts across their first two games, it was 63rd time lucky for the Turks, and their star man Arda Guler. The Real Madrid forward duped Mark McKenzie with a clever dummy, allowing the ball to run down the right flank to Baris Alper Yilmaz. Yilmaz crossed it back into Guler, who smashed it past Matt Turner to equalize in the 10th minute.

With Brad Pitt and Edward Norton among the Hollywood crowd, the game threatened to become a fight club, as Turkey's bench rushed the field to protest a foul by the combative Sebastian Berhalter, who earned a yellow. The Americans thought they had restored the lead, McKenzie the second US center-back to put the ball in the net, but the goal was ruled offside.

In the 31st minute the US found themselves behind for the first time this World Cup. Guler spotted Eren Elmali's overlapping run, feeding it to the wing-back who cut the ball back from the left byline to Yilmaz, who steered it beyond the keeper. The half-time break proved the perfect tonic for the US. In the 49th minute they were back level from a long throw by McKenzie. The ball was cleared by Turkey only as far as Berhalter, who did well to smash his shot low into the bottom corner.

The crowd erupted again just before the hour mark as Pochettino sent on Christian Pulisic, undoubtedly US soccer's biggest star. Nicknamed "Captain America", Pulisic earned his own round of "USA" chants, having not appeared since aggravating an injury against Paraguay two weeks ago. Pulisic immediately looked lively, twice having efforts blocked from close range after darting runs from the left. He knew less about a ball that looped off his shin onto the post.

Turkey began to knock on the door again. Deep into stoppage time, Ayhan spoiled the US party, slamming the ball home from close range. Turkey were jubilant, while the American players clustered in a circle after the final whistle, determined to not let the gut punch spoil a campaign that had been off to a flying start. "If we (had won) the game, is it going to change my mood, my momentum? No. Winning this game, or not winning this game, it's not going to change," said Pochettino.

Group D

United States 3 2 0 1 8 4 6 - qualified for last 32

Australia 3 1 1 1 2 2 4 - qualified for last 32

Paraguay 3 1 1 1 2 4 4

Turkey 3 1 0 2 3 5 3 - eliminated

Group E

Germany 3 2 0 1 10 4 6 - qualified

Ivory Coast 3 2 0 1 4 2 6 - qualified

Ecuador 3 1 1 1 2 2 4 - qualified

Curacao 3 0 1 2 1 9 1 - eliminated

Group F

Netherlands 3 2 1 0 10 4 7 - qualified

Japan 3 1 1 1 7 3 5 - qualified

Sweden 3 1 1 1 7 7 4 - qualified

Tunisia 3 0 0 3 2 12 0 - eliminated

That apparently sealed the deal for the Netherlands, whose orange-clad fans were entertaining themselves with Mexican waves midway through the first half at Arrowhead Stadium. Tunisia pulled a goal back in the second half but the Dutch restored their two-goal lead courtesy of a Jan Paul van Hecke header shortly after the hour mark. The Netherlands, who finished their group fixtures with seven points, pipped Japan to top spot in Group F, and will face Morocco in the second round in Monterrey on Monday.

Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden in Arlington, Texas, to confirm second spot though the Scandinavian side also advanced as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Netherlands coach Koeman warned against thinking too far ahead, with a potential last-16 tie against South Africa or co-hosts Canada. "We need to prepare for Morocco first because it will be a big game," he said. "It's a good team with a lot of quality and they can score easily. We know that from Dutch football."

Thursday's game started on time after a lightning storm had threatened major disruption earlier in the American Midwest. Tunisia went close in the opening moments when Ismael Gharbi fired over from close range but that proved a false indicator of what was to come. Instead Skhiri turned the ball into his own net in the third minute to put the three-time finalists in front.

Just four minutes later Brobbey smashed home his third goal of the World Cup after Virgil van Dijk headed across the area following a Tijjani Reijnders free-kick. Tunisia threatened to unravel further but managed to reach half-time without conceding again. The North Africans pulled a goal back in the 54th minute when Hazem Mastouri headed home from Hannibal Mejbri's corner.

But any potential jitters were quickly dispelled minutes later when Van Hecke's header from Reijnders' corner found its way into the net via a deflection. Tunisia will go home with their tails between their legs after an embarrassing campaign in which they shipped 12 goals in three games. Veteran French coach Herve Renard was hired last week after Sabri Lamouchi was sacked following the team's 5-1 hammering by Sweden in their opening match in Mexico.

But he was unable to stop the rot as Tunisia, who romped through qualifying without conceding a single goal, collapsed 4-0 against Japan before their defeat by the Dutch. The 57-year-old delivered a frank assessment of Tunisia's lack of quality. "We were not at the level for this World Cup," he said. "This is clear. There is no discussion. "It's a big tournament with very good teams, especially in this group. It was a very tough group. And now, the federation of Tunisia needs to sit down and analyse everything."

The Socceroos, who defeated Turkey in their opening match before losing to the United States, were never seriously threatened on their way to securing a point to reach the last 32 at the Levi's Stadium in northern California.

Felipe VI never responded, and the Spanish minister of foreign affairs defended the history shared by both countries, rejecting the idea of an apology. The move was the opening salvo to years of diplomatic tensions.

The king and the president were photographed shaking hands warmly, and chatted about football and expressed solidarity with Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes killed at least 235 people. Writing on X after the meeting, Sheinbaum said: "We discussed the importance of Indigenous peoples throughout history and the ties between Mexico and Spain. We agreed to strengthen bilateral relations for the benefit of our nations." The Spanish Royal House said after the visit that it "comes in the context of intensification of relations between the two countries."

Indeed, things had been tense. Back in 2024, Sheinbaum did not invite the king to her inauguration. Spain then declined to send a representative to the ceremony. But both parties have taken positive steps over the past year to organize Felipe's official trip and "reinforce the closeness and affinity that tie both people together," according to the Spanish Royal House. The king visited Sheinbaum in Mexico City while en route to Guadalajara, where Spain will play against Uruguay in the group phase of the World Cup.

But behind the warming relations lay the soft power of sports and culture. Last March, while visiting an exhibition in Madrid about Indigenous women in Mexico, the king publicly admitted that there was "a lot of abuse" during the colonial conquest. It soon emerged that Sheinbaum had invited him to attend the World Cup that Mexico is co-hosting with the United States and Canada. He accepted, in what was the first step to "heal wounds," the Mexican political commentator Pablo Majluf told AFP.

The analyst criticized the "mistaken" strategy of Lopez Obrador and the desire to show that "what they wanted was achieved, which was getting the King to recognize the posture of Mexico." Nonetheless, "the two countries are profoundly tied culturally, historically, and economically, meaning the closeness is positive," he said. In early June, dozens of Spanish and Mexican businessmen joined Spanish Minister of Economy Carlos Cuerpo for a meeting in Mexico City, where they sought to discuss doubling bilateral commerce by 2030.

Traveling alongside Felipe VI is Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Albares and Minister of Education Milagros Tolon. The public handshake between Sheinbaum and Felipe was seen as sealing the reconciliation, which started when Albares recognized at the same exhibition in Madrid the "pain and injustice" inflicted upon "the originary people" of the Americas. Spain had previously granted numerous awards to Mexican personalities and institutions -- interpreted as subtle winks towards a potential reconciliation.

The accolades included the granting of the Cervantes Prize to the writer Gonzalo Celorio and the Princess of Asturias Award for Concord to Mexico's National Museum of Anthropology. In April, Sheinbaum traveled to Barcelona at the invitation of Spanish President Pedro Sanchez to participate in a summit of leftist leaders to discuss the aggressive policies of US President Donald Trump. It was her first visit to Europe as president, and "an error" in the opinion of the analyst Majluf, because it put her in the category of Trump's enemies alongside Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Forward Christian Pulisic has recovered from a calf injury that has limited him to just 45 minutes at the tournament so far and urged the US to keep their foot on the accelerator. "Going into the knockout rounds will definitely feel better with a win, so that's why we're going to push for it," said Pulisic. "It's an amazing opportunity... We don't necessarily need a win, but it's a World Cup game, and we all want to give our best and do well."

The US have not reached the quarter-finals of a World Cup since 2002, but a strong start has raised hopes that they could go on a deep run on home turf. Australia and Paraguay square off in a battle for second place in Santa Clara. A draw would favour the Socceroos thanks to their better goal difference but would likely be enough to send Paraguay through too. Germany are guaranteed to advance as winners of Group E following wins over Curacao and Ivory Coast, putting first-round exits in the two previous World Cups behind them.

"I'm very happy that we're not at the end of our journey yet, but it is very important that we remain modest," said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. "We have won two matches, one was clear, one was very close. We want to win again tomorrow and we'll see who we play on Monday (in the last 32)." The four-time world champions take on an Ecuador side who desperately need a victory to extend their stay in the competition. Ivory Coast are on course to finish second in the section and will be expected to see off debutants Curacao, who remain in contention after digging in to hold Ecuador to a 0-0 draw last time out.

- Three-way battle in Group F -

Group F remains wide open with the Netherlands, Japan and Sweden still able to finish first. In Kansas City, the Dutch face a woeful Tunisia team that have suffered successive four-goal defeats and sacked their coach after the opening game. Herve Renard was parachuted in after Sabri Lamouchi's dismissal in the wake of a 5-1 loss to Sweden but his arrival did nothing to change Tunisia's fortunes, as a 4-0 defeat by Japan knocked them out of the tournament.

Japan are level with the Netherlands on four points going into their clash with Sweden in Arlington. After beginning the World Cup with a bang, the Swedes were hammered 5-1 by the Dutch. Brazil clinched first place in Group C on Wednesday as Vinicius Junior notched two more goals in a 3-0 win over Scotland in Miami, where Neymar made his first international appearance since October 2023.

Carlo Ancelotti's side will meet the Group F runners-up, with Morocco due to face the winners after being pipped to top spot by Brazil on goal difference. Morocco twice came from behind to beat Haiti 4-2 to also finish on seven points. Scotland, meanwhile, face an anxious wait to see if they scrape through as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Co-hosts Mexico sailed into the last 32 with a 3-0 defeat of the Czech Republic in an ebullient Estadio Azteca to wrap up a perfect Group A record. Mexico's reward is to play their last-32 tie in the same venue.

The biggest surprise of the day was South Africa's qualification for the first time in their history as they pulled off a shock 1-0 win against South Korea to grab second place in Group A. Switzerland advanced as Group B winners ahead of Canada after a 2-1 victory over the co-hosts in Vancouver and Bosnia-Herzegovina joined them after beating Qatar 3-1 and taking one of the third-place finishers' spots.

Does Sinner have a weakness? World number one Sinner returns to action for the first time since seeing his 30-match winning streak snapped in dramatic fashion in the French Open second round by Juan Manuel Cerundolo. The Italian led by two sets and 5-1 in the third before collapsing to a bizarre loss as he faded physically in blistering heat. Sinner has only lost nine matches since the start of 2025, four of those to currently injured rival Alcaraz.

He insisted he was "not dying because of the heat" in Paris, insisting he had been feeling unwell. But he has failed to deal with hot temperatures before, including in his last Masters defeat when he retired from his third-round tie against Tallon Griekspoor in Shanghai last year. Sinner also struggled visibly during the Australian Open earlier this season, before later losing to Djokovic in the semi-finals.

The four-time Grand Slam champion will be happy to see the current heatwave hitting Western Europe being forecasted to end before the start of Wimbledon, where he is still without doubt the man to beat after his final victory over Alcaraz last year. "It is definitely something I would love to feel again, I'm not lying, but at the same time, if it's not going to happen, I did it once, and will remember (it) forever," he said in an interview with Stan Sport of his hopes of going back-to-back.

Djokovic bidding to bounce back

The 39-year-old Djokovic has come close several times to winning a long-awaited 25th major trophy, but at the French Open he suffered his joint-earliest exit from a Slam since the 2017 Australian Open. Wimbledon will be only Djokovic's fifth tournament of the campaign as he continues to play a reduced schedule. The grass courts of SW19 may represent Djokovic's best chance of another Slam success, although he did reach the Australian Open final in February.

But doubts still surround the Serb's fitness and he pulled out of an exhibition grass-court event in London this week, without specifying a reason. But Djokovic, one short of Roger Federer's record tally of eight men's Wimbledon titles, only played one match on clay in preparation for the French Open and then said he was "happy with his level" during the tournament. Can rising stars build on Paris promise?

Teenagers Rafael Jodar and Joao Fonseca produced some eye-catching tennis with breakthrough runs to the French Open quarter-finals and will be expecting to build on that at Wimbledon.

Czech 20-year-old Jakub Mensik also impressed in reaching the semis as a new generation made their mark on a major competition for the first time.

Fonseca's comeback victory in the third round at Roland Garros over Djokovic appeared to be a coming-of-age moment for the Brazilian star.

The 19-year-old's power-packed game looks primed to make an impact on grass and the Brazilian reached the last 32 on his Wimbledon debut last year.

Jodar, 19, has never even played an ATP-level match on grass, but has climbed into the world's top 30 having started 2026 at number 168.

Mensik is now back in the world's top 20 and is one of only three men to beat Sinner this year.

French Open champion Zverev has never got past the last 16 in nine previous Wimbledon appearances, leaving the youngsters as perhaps the most likely challengers to Sinner and Djokovic.

A draw would be enough to secure qualification for the Japanese, but Moriyasu said they only had victory in mind. "As for our objectives, we want to win and qualify in first place," Moriyasu told reporters at a pre-match news conference. "I think playing in Monterrey would be the best option. "We had a pre-tournament training camp there, we played against Tunisia there, and the players have already experienced the atmosphere of the stadium as well as the pitch conditions and how the venue works.

"So being able to play in a place we're already familiar with is definitely an advantage." Japan and the Netherlands drew 2-2 in the opening group game. The Japanese hammered Tunisia 4-0 last time out but lie second behind the Netherlands, who also have four points, on goals scored with the sides having an identical goal difference. Sweden were crushed 5-1 by the Netherlands, but Moriyasu is wary of their potent attacking threat led by Premier League marksmen Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres.

"Sweden are a very strong side," said Moriyasu. "They're solid in defence and quick in attack. It won't be an easy match. First and foremost, we need to focus on winning. "I hope our defenders enjoy coming up against world-class strikers like Isak and Gyokeres. "I hope they make the most of this as a valuable experience to help them improve their own game." Japan have reached the knockout stage at the World Cup on four previous occasions, but have never gone beyond the last 16. They lost on penalties to Croatia at that stage in 2022.

The agony on his face in that game, shrugging off pain in his leg, was nothing to what has come before. "I've been through loads of adversity," he told the Guardian in 2023. His father Ibrahim's courage in opposing then dictator Saddam Hussein led to him being imprisoned and tortured. Al-Hamadi, aged just one, was taken by his mother Asseel to the safety of Jordan during the second Gulf War in 2003. "(My father) was an activist and part of a peaceful protest against the dictatorship within the nation," al-Hamadi told the website of his then club Swansea in 2019.

"One day, he and other members of the group were raided and taken to prison. "From there, they wrote to the Iraqi embassy in the UK explaining the situation and were subsequently released and ended up coming here." Once his father had settled in England, and despite being unable to pursue his chosen profession of law, the rest of the family joined him.

Although they were free from the violence that gripped Iraq following the fall of Saddam in 2003, life was hardly easy in Toxteth. The neighbourhood of Liverpool is renowned as the birthplace of John Conteh, the world light heavyweight boxing champion in the 1970s, but also riots in 1981. "Some days we did not really have anything to eat, but my dad would bring as much as he could for us," he recalled.

"It was always tough but I have happy memories because, regardless, my parents always tried to provide as much as they could for me." He did not have it easy outside his happy home life. "I was racially abused in school and got into a lot of fights," he told TheAsianGame.net in 2023. "In football too, during some academy games, I got called certain hurtful names. "You just smile, be polite and stand up for yourself. I have accepted that I can't change other people's perceptions.

"Instead, I've always focused on how I can help myself and control my path." He showed his strength of character when he chose football over going down potentially a more lucrative route -- a life of crime. "Around Toxteth, a lot of people get caught up in drugs and violence," he told the Swansea website. "There were times when I nearly dropped into it because of hanging around the wrong people, but I came through it." He resolved to focus on football. "I used to go out on the streets all the time and put two jumpers down as goalposts. It was always an escape from what was happening in the local area," he said.

His wise choice has paid off internationally. He scored a memorable goal in Iraq's 2-1 World Cup play-off win over Bolivia. A goal against Senegal would strengthen his case for Ipswich to give him another go in the Premier League next season -- he is presently on loan at third-tier Luton. Whatever happens he will take it in his stride. "I feel like it's a special part of me that gives me an edge, a bit more hunger and a lot more perspective on things because of the sacrifices my family had to make," he said. "I always have that in the back of my mind."

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo made a shock call by leaving captain Son Heung-min -- considered by many to be Asia's greatest-ever player -- out of the starting line-up. The Asian team started strongly, with stand-in captain Kim Min-jae's powerful header blocked on the goalline by Aubrey Modiba before Lee Kang-in flashed wide. South Africa quickly settled, playing with hunger and adventure, but their finishing was wasteful.

They seemed certain to take the lead in the 30th minute when the ball fell to Evidence Makgopa after South Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu parried Thalente Mbatha's shot. But Makgopa could only tamely poke the ball straight at the goalkeeper from close range. Son came on at the start of the second half, one of three changes made by coach Hong as he sought to change the script. Early in the second period Maseko squandered another good position while South Korea forward Oh Hyeon-gyu tested goalkeeper Ronwen Williams at the other end.

As news filtered through from Mexico City that the host nation were leading against the Czech Republic, there was an added sense of urgency. South Africa seized their moment with Tshepang Moremi crossing to Maseko, who this time kept his cool, firing home inside the near post in the 63rd minute. South Korea pushed hard in the closing stages but ran out of time, meaning South Africa will face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on June 28. Mexico topped the group with nine points after winning all three of their matches.

The result left Scotland in third place in Group C behind Brazil and second-placed Morocco with three points, leaving them to cling to the slim hope that they can qualify as one of the eight best third-placed teams in the 48-team tournament. "We fell short on quality tonight, but we gave it absolutely everything," McGinn told the BBC.

"The lads are empty now," he added. "We've given ourselves a more difficult chance. It's unlikely now, I would say, but we'll wait and see." Reflecting on the defensive blunder by Scott McKenna that led to Vinicius' opening goal for Brazil, McGinn said: "This is the top level, and if you make mistakes you get punished. "We know we have to be better, but we just need to wait and see now." The Aston Villa man paid tribute to the huge army of Scottish supporters, who have turned Boston and then Miami into a giant party.

"It's a bit raw at the minute, but we appreciate the support of the fans," he said. "We know how difficult it is to be here, and hopefully the journey's not over, but they've been absolutely outstanding, and if we have to go again, we'll go again."

Curacao are bottom of the group, level with Ecuador on a single point, and two behind Ivory Coast. The top two teams go through to the next round automatically. Veteran Dutch coach Advocaat said at his pre-match press conference on Wednesday that the draw against Ecuador proved his team could make life difficult for top teams. "It proved we could also hold our own against very strong opponents," said the 78-year-old. "That was a match that could have gone either way.

"A draw was actually, in my view, a fair reflection of the balance between the teams even though they did have a few more chances. "But we also managed to make things difficult for the opponent." A bullish Advocaat said his team, featuring 25 Dutch-born players, would take the game to the fancied Ivory Coast side in Philadelphia. "This will probably be the first match in which we are the favourites," he joked. "It's going to be a tough game.

"We've already shown against Ecuador what we can do -- that we don't just defend, but also pick the right moments to attack. And we're going to do that again tomorrow. Tahith Chong, the only member of the squad born on Curacao, said celebrations on the island following the Ecuador draw had been long and loud. "I think all the boys have seen footage... the island definitely didn't sleep that night," he said. And he brushed aside any thoughts that the success would mean less to the Dutch-born players.

"I'm a bit tired of hearing that every time," said the Sheffield United player, referring to the make-up of the squad. "I always see 25 other guys as my brothers," he said. "We want to achieve something beautiful together as a group."

"I think we are being punished as the group leader," Nagelsmann told reporters in New Jersey. "But if you look at all the algorithms and how everything plays together, it's extremely complex -- and the more teams you have, the more complex it gets." Germany thrashed Curacao 7-1 in their first game and then came from behind to beat Ivory Coast 2-1, ensuring they will progress beyond the group stage for the first time since winning the World Cup in 2014. But the expanded 48-team format means they could face a wide range of opponents in the last 32.

"It's not ideal that we don't find out until (late Saturday) who we will play, but we are prepared, we worked out the opponents that are most likely," said the 38-year-old Nagelsmann. "We are prepared well enough that we don't have to prepare for the match in such a hectic way on Sunday, because it will be our last training session where we can actually change something. "There's a little time pressure there... (but) we are all still pretty young as coaches, and if we have to, then we'll work through the night."

Ecuador are aiming to stave off an early exit after an impressive qualifying campaign raised hopes of a successful tournament. The South Americans have just one point after a 0-0 draw with newcomers Curacao and a 1-0 loss to Ivory Coast in their opening match. "We deserved far more. The way we competed makes us think we're on the right path. It's just our finishing that was lacking," said Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece.

"This is the biggest challenge we are facing, the biggest opportunity. I'm not afraid to fail. If you give your all there is nothing to reproach yourself for. "I am convinced we still have a chance."

Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, with his third goal in as many games at the World Cup, levelled before half-time. Soufiane Rahimi was nearly brought to tears when the 30-year-old's deflected effort found the top corner to give Morocco the lead before Gessime Yassine rounded off the scoring. But by finishing second to Brazil on goal difference, Morocco will head to Monterrey for a likely meeting against the Netherlands or Japan in the last 32 on Monday.

Despite bowing out without a point, Haiti's performances at a first World Cup since 1974 have done a nation gripped by poverty proud. Les Grenadiers were already eliminated after losing to Scotland and Brazil, but the thousands of Haitian expats in the stands at Atlanta were undeterred as every attack was met with deafening cheers. "Today we scored two goals, we are really proud of it, the emotions were big, but it is still really frustrating because we didn't get a point," said Sunderland striker Isidor.

"With the generation we have I am confident we are going to be here again to win Haiti's first point in a World Cup." Haiti's long wait for a goal on the global stage was ended after just 10 minutes when Jean-Kevin Duverne got to the by-line and Lenny Joseph flicked his cross into the net via a deflection off Bounou. Hakimi has continued to captain Morocco despite learning mid-tournament that he is to face a trial on rape charges in France.

But the reigning African footballer of the year said he was still in a good place "personally and professionally" after helping Paris Saint-Germain to a second consecutive Champions League title and his country into the knockout stages of the World Cup. "I am in a very good moment, personally and professionally," said Hakimi, who won man-of-the-match. "I feel very good, I have good people around me that help me concentrate on the most important thing and the truth is it is one of the most important moments of my career. I hope to continue like this for as long as possible."

Hakimi equalised when he was left with the simple task of forcing the ball over the line after Johny Placide could only parry Bilal El Khannouss' strike. Within four minutes, though, Haiti had restored their lead in far more spectacular fashion. Isidor pounced on a loose ball and let fly from outside the area with a shot that arrowed into the top corner.

Hakimi and coach Mohamed Ouahbi were visibly angered by conceding for a second time, but the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists responded before half-time. Saibari stroked home his third goal of the tournament with a cool finish from Hakimi's low cross. With Brazil cruising to victory over Scotland in Miami, Morocco knew only a comprehensive victory would secure them top spot in Group C.

Ouahbi began turning his attention to the last 32 as Bayern Munich-bound Saibari and Real Madrid's Diaz were replaced with over 20 minutes remaining. But two of his substitutes came on to win the game for Morocco. Rahimi's powerful strike from a corner flew into the top corner via a deflection off a desperate Haiti defender. He then turned provider by robbing possession on the Haiti by-line and crossing for Yassine to roll into an empty net.

Speaking to reporters today, Taskin said the Zimbabwe series would bring added pressure because any poor performance against the hosts would draw criticism despite Zimbabwe's strong record at home. “Every day in life is a challenge. Every series is challenging. The Zimbabwe series coming up is even more stressful because they are playing in their own conditions. If we do badly against them, people will simply say we played badly against Zimbabwe,” Taskin said. The pace bowler stressed that Bangladesh's players are well aware of the challenge posed by Zimbabwe on home soil and warned against underestimating the hosts.

“The players know, and we know, how difficult it is to go to Zimbabwe and beat them in their conditions,” Taskin who was rested from the one-off Test against Zimbabwe added. Bangladesh head into the tour after a mixed series against Australia. Although Bangladesh secured a historic ODI series victory, later they were whitewashed 3-0 in the T20 series. Taskin described such fluctuations as part of sport and insisted that no international assignment should be considered easy. “Recently we won the ODI series against Australia, but unfortunately we lost the T20 series. Every series is challenging for us. Even tape-tennis cricket is challenging. The game is never easy,” he said.

The players included the likes of Towhid Hridoy, Amite Hasan, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Rabiul Haque who were on board with the last batch. Members of the coaching staff also travelled with this group. Rabiul earned a call-up to the national squad after missing out on selection for the previous Test series against Pakistan. Bangladesh have opted to rest several key players for the Zimbabwe tour. Captain Liton Das, vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, pace sensation Nahid Rana and fast bowler Taskin Ahmed have all been left out of the squad.

Meanwhile, pacers Hasan Mahmud and Khaled Ahmed have returned to the national setup for the tour. Bangladesh are scheduled to play a one-off Test and a white-ball series during their visit to Zimbabwe as the team continues preparations for a busy international calendar. Bangladesh squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul  Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Mahedi Hasan, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Towhid Hridoy, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Amite Hasan, Rabiul Haque.

Left-arm spinner Nasum climbed 27 places to 11th in the T20I bowlers' rankings, equaling the second best position of his career after impressing throughout the three-match series, the ICC said in a press release today. Hridoy, who led Bangladesh during the series, rose nine places to 30th in the T20I batting rankings after scoring 105 runs across three matches. Saif Hasan also enjoyed a strong rise, moving up 13 spots to joint 35th.

Australia's players benefited from the clean sweep as well. Captain Mitchell Marsh advanced four places to ninth in the T20I batting rankings, while fast bowler Nathan Ellis moved up three spots to seventh among bowlers. Meanwhile, New Zealand pacer Matt Henry achieved a historic milestone in the ICC Test bowling rankings. The 34-year-old, who claimed 11 wickets in the Oval Test to help New Zealand level the series, climbed to the top of the rankings alongside India's Jasprit Bumrah on 870 rating points.

Henry became the first New Zealand bowler to reach No. 1 in the Test bowling rankings since Sir Richard Hadlee in 1990. Only Jack Cowie and Hadlee had previously achieved the feat for New Zealand.

The BFF said the recognition from the FIFA chief is a matter of great pride for the country's football community and would serve as an inspiration in its ongoing efforts to develop football nationwide. Earlier on Tuesday night, FIFA President Gianni Infantino shared a post on Instagram highlighting the celebrations of Bangladeshi fans following a goal by Argentine superstar Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup.

"The passion for the FIFA World Cup knows no borders," Infantino wrote. “These incredible scenes at University of Dhaka in Bangladesh after Lionel Messi found the net show how our beautiful game brings people together and creates unforgettable moments across continents and cultures. What a fantastic atmosphere!”

The long-standing single-tournament record of 13 goals set in 1958 by France's Just Fontaine appears vulnerable. German great Gerd Muller was the last man to hit double figures, at the 1970 tournament in Mexico, when he scored 10 goals. Since then, at all but three tournaments, the leading scorer has hit six goals or fewer. Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, has been the standout performer so far at the tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

He struck a memorable hat-trick against Algeria before scoring twice in a 2-0 victory over Austria, accounting for all five of the defending champions' goals so far. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said it was "hard to explain" the genius of the veteran forward after their opening match in Kansas City. "We are amazed with him still, although we get to see him on a daily basis and he's been the best for 20 years," he said. "He still pulls it off every single match."

Messi's most likely challenger, based on the prospect of a deep run in the tournament, is Mbappe, who scored eight goals four years ago in Qatar to win the Golden Boot. The 27-year-old, now France's record goalscorer, is just two goals behind Messi's career total. The Real Madrid star said, perhaps unconvincingly, that chasing Messi was not top of his mind after his team's 3-0 stroll against Iraq in their second game.

"Leo always scores goals and always will," he said. "So I am not looking at what he is doing, I'm just focusing on helping my team." Level with Mbappe on four goals is Manchester City forward Haaland, who has scored in his past 12 competitive appearances for Norway.

The giant forward, 25, played down his extraordinary talent after taking his international tally to a remarkable 59 goals in 52 games. "It's like many other things, I'm just really good at scoring goals and I'm quite lucky," he said. "I don't know what I'm doing. It's just how it is." Germany's Deniz Undav and Canada's Jonathan David have three goals each and Kane and Ronaldo are among a clutch of players with two.

Portugal's Ronaldo briefly stole the spotlight from long-time rival Messi on Tuesday when he became the first man to score in six different World Cup tournaments. The 41-year-old roared, "I'm back, I'm back" after his two strikes in the 5-0 romp against Uzbekistan, which followed an insipid performance from him in their opening 1-1 draw against DR Congo. Ronaldo, the leading scorer in men's international history, with 145 goals, said: "I always arrive, even if it's later, but I'm there."

Kane, whose six goals won him the Golden Boot at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, is stuck on two after missing a golden chance during England's goalless draw against Ghana on Tuesday. US striker Folarin Balogun, who has netted twice, has set his sights on matching the world's elite but realises he has a tough act to follow. "Seeing players like Messi, Mbappe, Haaland -- they're so inevitable. I think they're scoring a goal a game, sometimes more," he said. "For me, it's just about trying to get to that level -- to be inevitable as well, to be consistent."

The keenly contested preliminary round final match rolled into a tie breaker after the regulation time ended in a tame goalless draw. 

Such an outcome would complicate the path of Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil later in the competition. Ancelotti said on Tuesday that Neymar had recovered from injury and the 34-year-old could make his first appearance of the tournament against the Scots. "He can play, he's doing well, he trained very well. I'm very happy with him," said the Italian coach, adding that the forward "brings experience, understanding of the game, and helps the younger players."

Neymar's inclusion in the matchday squad will help make up for the absence of winger Raphinha, who is out injured for around two weeks. On a dizzying day of action when the final game in each group will be played simultaneously, co-hosts Mexico know they are already guaranteed of playing in the knockout round. The Mexicans won Group A after two victories and will play the Czech Republic, who need a victory to stand any chance of going through to the last 32.

South Africa improved dramatically in their last game to draw with the Czechs after a pitiful perfomance in the tournament curtainraiser against Mexico when they had two men sent off and lost 2-0. They need to beat Son Heung-min's South Korea, who themselves are targeting the knockout phase. The finale to Group C sees already-qualified Canada take on Switzerland in Vancouver. The task for the Swiss is simple -- win and they are guaranteed of playing in the knockout round.

Anything less than that and the Swiss require any one of three scenarios to go through. Bosnia-Herzegovina and 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar -- who were thumped 6-0 by Canada in their last outing -- meet in the group's other game, and both have an outside chance of qualifying. The action on Wednesday is the first of four days of six games, the result of a tournament expanded for the first time to 48 teams.

On Tuesday, Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics as he became the first man to score in six different World Cups. Ronaldo, 41, admitted he had spent a "dark week" fielding criticism after a lacklustre display in Portugal's opening 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

But the veteran striker roared back to life with two goals as Portugal kickstarted their campaign with a 5-0 drubbing of Group K rivals Uzbekistan in Houston. "I can say it was a very tough week, a difficult week, a week in which public opinion was very harsh on us, on all the players, especially on the coach," Ronaldo said of Roberto Martinez.

England meanwhile were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Ghana that meant their bid to reach the last 32 comes down to their final group game against Panama, who were eliminated by a 1-0 loss to Croatia. Colombia booked their ticket for the last 32 with a 1-0 win against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the men's category, Abu Horaira Tamim of Enigma Multimedia Limited emerged as champion while Rummel finished as runner-up. Tarikul Islam Masum of Channel i secured third place. In the women's category, Zahida Parvez Chhonda of Dainik Sangbad claimed the championship title. Taskina Yasmin of Bangladesh Kantha finished as runner-up, while Jannatul Ferdous Panna secured third place.

Hannan, who served on the BCB's junior selection panel during Bangladesh's victorious 2020 ICC Under-19 World Cup campaign, previously worked as a national team selector before moving into coaching.

The former opener enjoyed success in domestic cricket, guiding Abahani Limited to the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) title and leading Rajshahi Warriors to a Bangladesh Premier League championship. He most recently served as head coach of the Bangladesh Under-17 team.

Five of the six members of the new Under-19 coaching staff are local coaches. Former Bangladesh pacer Dollar Mahmud has been retained as pace bowling coach, while Mohammad Selim will continue as fielding coach. Both were part of the previous Under-19 coaching setup.

The appointments were announced at a press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Monday.

The BCB also confirmed that veteran Bangladesh cricketer Mahmudullah has been appointed mentor for various age-group teams, the High Performance (HP) programme and the national youth setup. Former national opener Imrul Kayes will accompany the Emerging and HP teams as a mentor during their upcoming tour of Australia.

Speaking to reporters after his appointment, Hannan said his priority would be to develop future national team players while maintaining competitive results at the youth level.

"We want to achieve good results, but our main objective is to produce cricketers capable of progressing to higher levels," he said.

Meanwhile, the BCB announced the launch of an analytics laboratory at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Initially operating from an indoor facility in Mirpur, the lab will maintain a comprehensive video database tracking player’s performances from the Under-14 level through to the national team.

The initiative is expected to strengthen player development, performance analysis and talent identification across Bangladesh's cricket pathway.

With captain Harry Kane scoring twice and Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham netting, England midfielder Declan Rice believes Thomas Tuchel's squad should be a match for any team in the tournament. Rice said Monday the challenge for England will be reproducing the swashbuckling attacking display that marked their second-half performance against Croatia. "We know as players the level, we know what's required, and that second-half performance was probably the benchmark for us in terms of having to start the game at that level," Rice said.

"We believe that if we can do that from the opening minute, with the players that we also have to come on and finish the game, we can beat any opponent in the world. "We want to be confident in our abilities and what we can do on the pitch." England's German manager Tuchel meanwhile says his team are already embracing the pressure that comes with a World Cup campaign. "There are emotions involved and you can at some point feel the tension and feel the pressure. I hope we can cope with it, accept it and turn it around," Tuchel said.

"I heard also a lot about it and I feel of course the excitement and the pressure, but I feel that we have so many winners and so many players who are experienced to cope with the pressure." England though will be wary of the threat posed by Ghana's Antoine Semenyo, the London-born Manchester City winger who is the focal point of the Black Stars attack. Ghana, 1-0 winners over Panama in their opener last week, can also qualify for the knockout rounds on Tuesday with a victory at Foxborough, just outside Boston. Elsewhere, Portugal will attempt to draw a line under a turbulent first week of the tournament when they take on Uzbekistan in Houston.

Portugal arrived at the World Cup as one of the tournament favourites, boasting a team studded with flair players and spearheaded by veteran Cristiano Ronaldo in attack. But Ronaldo's leaden performance in a faltering 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo renewed debate about the captain's place in the starting line-up. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez has continued to offer staunch support of his 41-year-old captain, despite his failure to score in his last 10 matches at major tournaments.

"He's a good example for us, for all of us," Martinez said of Ronaldo. "So he really wants to keep on improving, to contribute to the team, and he's really a role model for our team." Martinez though stopped short of confirming Ronaldo will start against Uzbekistan when asked by reporters on Monday, saying he had not informed his players of the lineup.

Martinez said the disappointment Portugal felt after drawing with the DRC will be motivation against Uzbekistan, who are playing at a World Cup for the first time and will be heavy underdogs. "The feeling of frustration that we all had as a team, the feeling of disappointment after the game, probably that's the best starting point to prepare for the next game," said the Spaniard. 

Messi, who had tied Miroslav Klose's record of 16 goals with a brilliant hat-trick against Algeria last week, bagged the 17th and 18th goals of his World Cup career in a 2-0 win over Austria in Texas. The eight-time Ballon D'Or winner, who turns 39 on Wednesday, had blown a chance to break the record after eight minutes when he dragged a penalty wide of the post in the Group J match. But the Argentina skipper made no mistake seven minutes before half-time, coolly placing his finish beyond the dive of Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

He then completed his double in the fifth minute of stoppage time to take his tally for the tournament to five goals. Argentina are now guaranteed top spot in Group J after Algeria came from behind to defeat Jordan 2-1 in Monday's late game in Santa Clara, California. Messi admitted he had been privately seething after missing his penalty early in the game.

"Today there was a moment where I was very angry about the penalty because I missed and I struck it very badly," he told reporters. "Luckily we were able to turn the situation around, take the lead and take three very important points." France meanwhile were made to wait before booking their place in the last 32 with a storm-hit win over Iraq in Philadelphia that took just under four hours to complete.

Kylian Mbappe, making his 100th appearance for France, had fired France into a 1-0 lead with a vicious long-range effort after 14 minutes that ripped past Iraq goalkeeper Ahmed Basil. But as the half progressed, a severe thunderstorm that had prompted tournament organisers to delay opening the stadium doors to fans before kick-off rolled into the region, dumping heavy rain on the venue. As the half-time whistle blew, fans in the 68,324-capacity Lincoln Financial Field were told to take shelter, and scrambled into the stadium concourses.

The weather warning prevented the match resuming after half-time, leaving the two teams to huddle in their respective locker rooms before the second half finally kicked off at approximately 8.00pm local time (0000 GMT), a delay of around two hours. "We stayed calm, (during the suspension of the game), I was joking with the players," France coach Didier Deschamps said of the delay. When play resumed, Mbappe grabbed his second of the match -- and 16th career World Cup goal -- before Ousmane Dembele added France's third in the 66th minute.

The possibility of weather causing disruption to the tournament had been signalled at last year's Club World Cup in the United States, when multiple games were interrupted for several hours. Public safety regulations used widely in the United States mandate that play is halted whenever lightning is recorded near a stadium. "It's a matter of security, I don't blame anyone," Deschamps said. "As soon as there is a risk, we adapt to local laws. These are unusual circumstances, and I hope it won't happen again."

With Messi and Mbappe getting among the goals once more, Norway striker Haaland was in no mood to be left out, helping himself to a double with a rampaging performance in a 3-2 defeat of Senegal in East Rutherford. The Manchester City striker's brace and a Marcus Holmgren Pedersen strike sealed victory for the Norwegians, with Ismaila Sarr scoring twice for Senegal. The win sets up a mouthwatering final Group I game between France and Norway on Friday, where the winner will be assured of topping the group.

Next on the list is Brazilian great Ronaldo, with 15 goals, one ahead of Gerd Muller and current France star Kylian Mbappe. "To enjoy this with my family, with my teammates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment," Inter Miami star Messi said. "I'm happy." He added: "It's an honour to be there, given what it means to stand alongside Klose or the others.

"Ronaldo is there too but I don't think it means anything -- Mbappe as well, who scored two today (in a 3-1 win against Senegal). "In the end, it's just a statistic and nothing more." Messi's razor-sharp eye for goal augurs well for Argentina's hopes of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cup titles.

"The squad, it's a very united, very strong group," he said. "I feel good. We were lucky enough to win a tough match. It's important to start off with a win in the first game. "I'm grateful to the fans, because once again they've shown that Argentina is crazy about this -- we packed the stadium again." Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said he no longer had "the words to describe Messi." "For 20 years, he's had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play," he said of Messi's masterclass.

Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister said Messi was still the heartbeat of the team despite his veteran status. "If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all," he said. Rodrigo De Paul, who supplied the pass for the first goal on Tuesday, described the former Barcelona star as "a beast".

The win gives Algeria hope of progressing to the knockout round if they can beat Austria in Kansas City on Saturday. Austria lost 2-0 to Argentina earlier on Monday, leaving the South Americans top of Group J on six points. The Austrians and Algeria have three points each. Jordan face Argentina in Arlington, Texas on Saturday in their farewell to the tournament.

However, Haaland cautioned against getting carried away after the team's strong start to their first World Cup since 1998. "To qualify for the first time in 28 years and going through the group stage I would say, yes. To win the World Cup, absolutely not," said Haaland. "We've won 12 competitive games in a row now. I'm part of something special, making history, and I'm extremely proud to be Norwegian."

In this tournament, the Manchester City striker is level with Kylian Mbappe on four goals and one behind Lionel Messi, who has netted all five of Argentina's goals at the tournament so far and in the process has become the World Cup's highest scorer in history with 18 goals. Haaland meanwhile took his international tally to a remarkable 59 goals in 52 games. "I think it's my speciality, to score goals," said Haaland.

"It's like many others things, I'm just really good at scoring goals and I'm quite lucky. I don't know what I'm doing. It's just how it is." Senegal coach Pape Thiaw must hold out hope his team can beat Iraq in their final game to have a chance of reaching the knockout phase. "A tough match against a team that caused us problems; they were very clinical and scored two goals at the worst possible times," said Thiaw.

"After the first goal we regrouped, but we conceded a second. We have to encourage the players because it's not easy. "We need to focus on this last match and give everything to get the three points and keep hoping. It's difficult, but we're not dead yet."

Not the most played outright, because Brazil have faced Sweden seven times including in the 1958 final and in the 1994 semi-finals. There have also been seven meetings of Argentina and Germany or West Germany, three of which have come in finals. But the Selecao and the Scots faced off four times at World Cups between 1974 and 1998, all in the group stage -- after all, Scotland have never gone beyond the first round.

Narey's strike in Seville in 1982 remains an iconic World Cup moment, but it did not really have the desired effect as it simply stirred the Brazil of Socrates and Zico to life -- they came back to win 4-1. In 1974 in West Germany, Kenny Dalglish's Scotland held the Brazil of Jairzinho and Rivellino to a goalless draw, and were ultimately eliminated on goal difference. A late Mueller goal gave the Brazilians a 1-0 victory in Turin at Italia 90, and in 1998 Scotland prevented Ronaldo, Rivaldo and Bebeto from scoring only for Tom Boyd's own goal to decide the contest 2-1 in favour of the World Cup holders.

So can Scotland upset the odds and finally beat the Brazilians at the World Cup? "Brazil have got an amazing history and we obviously want to disrupt that on Wednesday," said defender Jack Hendry, whose namesake Colin captained Scotland in that 1998 game. Scotland are hoping to make history by qualifying for the knockout phase for the first time, after starting their campaign with a 1-0 win over Haiti in Boston.

That was followed by a 1-0 defeat against Morocco, but a draw here will almost certainly take them through as one of the eight best third-placed sides -- in fact they could even yet advance with a defeat, and three points. "If there's a nation to play to get to the next round, we want to do it against these type of teams, so it's going to be a great spectacle," added Hendry.

"Scotland against Brazil in Miami to make some history is something you dream of," said John McGinn, who was just three when the nations last met at the tournament. The fixture perhaps doesn't have quite the same aura for Brazil, the record five-time World Cup winners. They are just focused on getting the job done and advancing to the next round in the best possible position in the group -- a win will be required to make sure of that, as they and Morocco both have four points so far.

Brazil are without Barcelona forward Raphinha due to injury but this could be the occasion for Neymar to finally make his return for the Selecao. The 34-year-old, his country's all-time record scorer, was called up by coach Carlo Ancelotti despite not having appeared for Brazil since October 2023 due to injury. He then, almost inevitably, suffered another injury to his right calf which has kept him out of the team's two games so far in the United States, but the ex-Paris Saint-Germain superstar is now ready to play.

"We saw the quality he has in training, we were speechless," said Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli on Monday. "When you look at the shape he is in you can see that he is desperate to get out there and we are delighted to have him." Brazil's last meeting with Scotland was a friendly in 2011 in London, in which Neymar scored twice on just his third cap. Full-back Aaron Hickey remains a doubt for Scotland after not playing against Morocco.

It was the first time that a match at the tournament has had to be paused due to the weather. Fans at the stadium tried to make the best of the situation, although they were surprised by the strictness of the protocol. After Canadian referee Drew Fischer sent the 22 players back to the dressing rooms for half-time, with France leading 1-0 thanks to a Kylian Mbappe goal, an urgent message flashed up on the scoreboards: "Please exit the open seating area and seek shelter in covered areas of the stadium."

The approximately 70,000 spectators, many already in ponchos and rain coats, filed out and, in little more than 15 minutes, the concourses of "the Linc" resembled a huge train station on a holiday travel day. Antoine Chouraqui, a Frenchman who has lived in the United States for a decade, took the development in stride. "There are storms in the summer here. I've never had to evacuate a stadium, but I play tennis and often we're in the middle of a match when the alarm goes off warning that lightning is coming, and we have to leave the court," he told AFP.

A fan from Paris though was baffled by the order to leave the stands. "We don't really know what to do; we haven't been given many instructions," said the man, who declined to give his name, as he stood with his two sons. "I've never seen that in 40 years of football. In France we don't stop a match for rain."

The rain poured and poured, soaking any fans who lingered in the seats. "We brought the ponchos, we were ready," said Steven Jouan, 32, who had come to Philadelphia from South Carolina with his partner for the game to support France. "We have been to different sporting events before so we knew that delays happen. Most of the other games get cancelled but a World Cup game, you just gotta stick it out."

'With $400 tickets, I'm staying' - Spectators used the interruption to try to dry off, chat, and shop, whether it was food, drinks, jerseys, scarves, or whatever other merchandise they could find. There was no chance of fans leaving though -- with the cost of tickets to this World Cup, they wanted to get their money's worth. "I've already left an interrupted MLS match before," said Axel Francon, who has lived in Colorado for four years. "But here, at $400 a ticket, I'm staying."

Pierre Prondeau and Morgane Granger stayed too, "after travelling 6,000 kilometers" to attend France's first two World Cup matches. "We're making the best of a bad situation, but the match better not be postponed because we won't be able to change our return tickets," Prondeau said. Eventually the lightning stopped flashing and an announcement was made that the game would restart at 8:00 pm local time (0000 GMT Tuesday). France went on to win 3-0.

The Club World Cup in the United States last year, which served as a dress rehearsal for the World Cup, saw six matches delayed because of extreme weather conditions, including eventual winners Chelsea's game against Benfica in the round of 16 in Charlotte, which was halted for four and a half hours. Scientists say this is a phenomenon that could become increasingly common as greenhouse gases continue to warm the planet.

The pre-season tour also includes a match against Bundesliga champion Bayern Munich in Hong Kong on August 7 for the inaugural Audi Football Summit, the club statement added. Manager Unai Emery's men will start their pre-season schedule against English side Walsall on July 21, while they will also face Bundesliga team Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany on August 15, before the start of the new top flight season.

Ahmad Satrio, the head of marketing communication of Sound Rhythm, said the local promoter was "proud" to be able to bring the Europa League holders to Jakarta. "Aston Villa's achievements this season have made them one of the most exciting and talked-about clubs in European football, Ahmad said in a statement on Monday.

"We believe Indonesian football fans deserve the opportunity to experience that excitement directly." The English club finished fourth in the Premier League last season, which bring qualification for the Champions League. The club also won the Europa League final, its first trophy in 30 years.

The 29-year-old will therefore definitely miss Wednesday's last Group C match against Scotland in Miami, which could open the door to a return for superstar Neymar. "We are all sad, especially Rafa, because of the little setback with this injury, but he can count on all of us for support. We are all by his side," Paqueta, of Flamengo, told reporters at Brazil's World Cup base in New Jersey.

"He is a dedicated kid, and I am sure he will do everything possible and impossible to be back as soon as possible. But in terms of how important he is, well, I don't think I need to say anything. "He has had an incredible couple of seasons and has been getting better and better for the national team, so I think that when any player of that importance is missing you are going to have to restructure quickly."

Raphinha's season with Barcelona was regularly impacted by problems with his right hamstring, and he has missed a total of 24 matches for club and country since the campaign began. A starter in both of the Selecao's games so far, he was replaced by the young Bournemouth forward Rayan when he came off late in the opening half against the Haitians.

"We all know his characteristics, his qualities, his pace, his ability to create space and his finishing ability, so I think we are losing a very important player," added ex-West Ham United player Paqueta. "But we are not paying too much attention to how long he is going to be out. We just hope he is back as soon possible." Ancelotti's side have four points from two games so far, and will clinch qualification for the last 32 in one of the top two places in the section if they avoid defeat against the Scots.

Neymar is being tipped to feature against Scotland after overcoming the injury which has stopped him from featuring at the tournament so far. If Brazil's all-time top scorer does play, it will be his first appearance for his country since October 2023. "He is a very important player for the national team, who has a marvellous history with us and can still help us a lot," Paqueta said of the 34-year-old former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward.

He will become the 10th French player to reach a century of caps, but is still a long way away from the record of 145 appearances held by his former teammate, goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. "The importance and the stakes of the match are what really matter and we need a win to go through," insisted Mbappe. He made his debut for France as an 18-year-old in 2017, and on Monday he became his country's leading marksman of all time with a brace in the 3-1 win over Senegal at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

That took him past Olivier Giroud's previous record of 57 goals to set a new mark, with 58. It is fitting that these landmarks have come at the World Cup, a tournament which has defined his career since he revealed himself on the global stage in the France team that won the trophy in Russia in 2018. He scored four goals in that tournament, and eight in Qatar four years ago, including a stunning hat-trick in the final which Les Bleus lost on penalties to Lionel Messi's Argentina.

"I am aware of what it means to be at a World Cup here and representing over 67 million French people," said the 27-year-old Real Madrid forward. "I just want to go down in history for my country. I think a lot of players, given the stakes of a World Cup, don't fully enjoy it, but I just try to enjoy it, I know how lucky I am.

"I know I have the quality but you still need to go out and show it on the biggest stage at a World Cup and I don't think a double in the first game is enough to show the full extent of my talent." That sounded like a warning to outsiders Iraq, against whom another France win will send the tournament favourites on their way to the knockout stages. Mbappe has 14 World Cup goals from just 15 appearances, and he is just two away from matching the overall tournament goals record -- that was held before this year by Germany's Miroslav Klose with 16, and equalled by Messi when he scored a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria last Tuesday.

"I knew Leo Messi would score goals, he always does. He has the record, I am just behind and I will keep trying to score goals," Mbappe said. "That will bring me closer to the record, but the most important thing is going as far as possible with my team." Mbappe seems to be especially loving being one of the star names at a World Cup in the United States, and he suggested that he might eventually like to play in Major League Soccer later in his career.

"Of course, the culture is different to ours in Europe, and I have always liked that, the fact that people have ambitions with no limits, and are not afraid to say it," he admitted. "Will I come here at the end of my career? I don't know. David Beckham often asks me. We will see, but it is a country I like and I am happy to be here."

However, he did indicate that he might not still be playing at World Cups into his forties, like Cristiano Ronaldo at this year's edition. "I won't be doing this at 40, you will have got rid of me by then," he joked.

But Conceicao on Sunday there was no was question of players feeling obliged to pass to Ronaldo if other team-mates were in better attacking positions. "We don't feel the need to pass him the ball," Conceicao said. "I pass it to whoever I think is in the best position and unmarked." Conceicao said Ronaldo is seen as "just another member of the squad" which needed "every individual for the collective to function".

"Cristiano is an example because of his career and the hunger he still possesses at 41 years of age... An example of leadership and the goals he scores," the Juventus player said during a press conference. "There is no one like him when it comes to scoring goals... He is here to help, just like any other player." Portugal play Uzbekistan in their second Group K match in Houston on Tuesday, desperately looking for three points to get their campaign up and running. "No one takes it harder than we do. We felt firsthand that we didn't do our job in the best possible way," Conceicao said.

"If things don't go well, there will be more pressure and more criticism. We want to show our quality and win the next match."

Ghalenoei praised his players for holding Belgium, ranked 10th in the world, to a stalemate in Los Angeles on Sunday despite facing the strain of considerable visa and travel restrictions in the United States. "This is a great achievement. We've had two games without losing in the World Cup, with the conditions that we've had," he said.

"We had less than 16 hours to get to do training before the game," he said, after his team was not permitted to travel early to the US from their base camp in Mexico. "This is a great achievement, and it will be written about in the history of our football, and future generations will talk about this." Before the game, the Iran anthem was booed by members of Los Angeles' extensive Persian exile community, who oppose the country's hardline regime. But the team itself was vocally supported by a majority of the packed stadium.

"I want to thank all the Iranians, with different attitudes regarding politics. They supported us, and they gave us energy," said Ghalenoei. Ghalenoei said that despite Belgium having Nathan Ngoy sent off in the 66th minute, Iran were "lucky not to lose" given the strength of the opposition. "I don't think any team in the world could have really sustained with such conditions, and played like this -- the conditions have been extremely hard for us," he said.

"Our players are really giving everything, they are playing with their heart." In an evenly poised Group G, Iran must secure at least a point in their final game against Egypt, which will take place in Seattle next Friday. "Tomorrow we need to focus on the game with Egypt. Egypt is a very strong team, they have very good players. Our first and utmost aim is to reach the next round," said the manager.

Iran midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh also paid tribute to the team's "spirit" and "amazing performance." He said the team would draw upon the experience of narrowly failing to progress from their group at the last World Cup, when they crashed out after a 1-0 defeat to the United States. "Last World Cup, we tried to do the best thing, but very last minute, we couldn't do it," he said. "But now I think the most important thing is we go to recover well, to make sure that we are ready for the next game."

The Argentina captain was tearful after his first goal, and it later emerged that his father is recovering from an unspecified health issue. Despite his personal travails and a troubled build-up because of a hamstring injury, Messi's mere presence appears to inspire his teammates. "If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all," said midfielder Alexis Mac Allister after the win against Algeria.

Argentina can qualify for the next round with a victory and would be assured of finishing top of Group J if Jordan fail to beat Algeria later on Monday. Another player chasing the all-time World Cup scoring record, Kylian Mbappe, will play his 100th game for France when they meet Iraq in Philadelphia. "There is nothing bigger -- one hundred is a historic figure, and to have the chance to reach that tally here at a World Cup means it will be a special match for me," Mbappe told reporters on Sunday.

Mbappe, 27, is tied with West Germany legend Gerd Mueller on 14 goals after he netted twice in France's opening 3-1 win against Senegal in Group I. France, who were beaten by Argentina on penalties in the last final in 2022, will expect to brush aside the Iraqis to guarantee a ticket to the knockout phase.

Norway and their marksman Erling Haaland, who scored twice against Iraq in a 4-1 opening win, will also be guaranteed of going through from Group I if they beat Senegal in New Jersey and France defeat Iraq. In Sunday's action, Spain got their campaign back on track with a 4-0 thrashing of Saudi Arabia and debutants Cape Verde conjured another memorable performance to snatch a 2-2 draw with Uruguay. European champions Spain were frustrated in a 0-0 draw with World cup debutants Cape Verde in their opening game, sparking criticism at home.

But against the Saudis, Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal opened the scoring as he made his first start in two months since recovering from a hamstring problem. Mikel Oyarzabal added two more, before a Hassan al-Tambakti own goal. Spain coach Luis De la Fuente said his squad had been fuelled by the criticism of their opening performance.

"When someone questions your work, it is only human that anyone with courage and pride reacts to prove people wrong," said De la Fuente. The win put Spain top of Group H with four points after two matches. Cape Verde grabbed another point in an entertaining draw with Uruguay in Miami.

Their coach Bubista said his team were now dreaming of a place in the knockout rounds -- a scenario that would have been unthinkable before the tournament. "We want to show the entire world that we are in the condition to fight for qualification, and I think that that's what we showed today in today's match," Bubista said. Belgium are still looking for their first win after being held to a 0-0 draw by Iran in Group G.

The Red Devils, who also drew with Egypt in their opening game, finished the game in Los Angeles with 10 men and struggled to break down a resolute Iranian side. The Egyptians moved to the top of the group on Sunday after coming from behind to claim the first World Cup victory in the country's history, 3-1 win over New Zealand. Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Zico and Trezeguet scored Egypt's goals after Finn Surman had given New Zealand the lead.

"It's incredible, I don't know how to express it in words," former Liverpool star Salah said of the historic first win. "It's a great achievement for all the players and the subs, and hopefully we can make history and qualify first."

Salah's goal came after he exchanged passes with Zico -- named after the Brazilian legend -- and then curled in a shot with his left foot in the 67th minute. Salah then provided the assist for substitute Trezeguet -- who himself is named after former France forward David Trezeguet -- to make the game safe with a low header. "In years to come we will remember that this was one of the achievements in history," Salah said.

He praised the large Egyptian contingent in the crowd, saying: "It feels like we are playing in Egypt. It's a great win and great vibe." Egypt had trailed the Kiwis, who opened the scoring through Surman's towering header after 15 minutes. But Zico equalized when he headed in a cross from Mohamed Hany. Belgium and Iran drew 0-0 earlier in the other Group G game. The Belgians face New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday.

Clark has repeatedly apologized for damaging the locker at Oakmont after missing the cut last year. "I sure hope it closes the door on it," Clark said. "I'll probably always get (hecklers), but I hope I don't become the heel of the PGA." Clark recalled the aftermath the incident as his darkest time, never dreaming he would win the US Open a year after. "After what happened at Oakmont was obviously the lowest point," Clark said. "It was a really tough two, three days for me. I was in a dark place, didn't really go outside much.

"I just felt a lot of my career, world ranking, reputation, everything just dwindling. That's a terrible feeling. "In that moment I definitely didn't think I'd be here this year doing this." While some joked about what Clark might do to his locker had he squandered a six-stroke lead in the last round, Clark said he has much better control of his anger. "I'm not as angry as I used to be," Clark said. "I think I get frustrated. My anger has kind of gone away, which is a huge blessing.

"It's a combination of things off the course being great," he said. "My game feels like it's in a good position. I'm just happier where I'm at in life. "Last year I got too caught up in things that really didn't matter." It didn't help being bypassed for last year's Ryder Cup team. "That was also another just jab to the stomach that I didn't make that," he said. "I'm just happy I'm here on the other side of things."

That helped him handle hecklers, and a gallery that greeted his great shots with silence while cheering his errors. "They definitely didn't want me to win," Clark said. "It's pretty rare in a major to have fans kind of boo against your shots or cheer for bad shots. That was tough. But sometimes being the underdog is nice. "I kind of brought it on myself. I'm proud of myself I battled through. Things really could have gotten away from me. I stood tough."

He joked about his few cheers with caddie Dave Pelekoudas. "If we heard someone cheer for me, I'd go, there's one person that likes me," Clark said. "But it's tough, man. I've played now a Presidents Cup and Ryder Cup on foreign soil and it kind of had that atmosphere a little bit." Scheffler caddie Ted Scott praised him after the finish. "He went out of his way to say, hey, that took a lot of grit. No one was really pulling for you, and to battle through and win, that was impressive," Clark said.

Clark teased the locals at last week's PGA Canadian Open by wearing a USA hockey jersey that brought him boos. "They were pretty harsh on me," Clark said. "It sucks getting rooted against, but I can pull through, and there's nothing like winning an away game."

Yet, the crowd leapt with joy when Iran's Team Melli nearly scored against Belgium's Red Devils, before the referree disallowed the goal for being offside -- earning a chorus of whistles. "Our second team for this World Cup is Iran," Romero told AFP, taking pride in Tijuana managing to host the Iranian team at the last minute, after a series of off-field matters kept them from their US-based training camp.

With the United States and Israel's war against Iran as a backdrop, the Persian squad has voiced complaints of unfair treatment over US visas, travel times and equity with all the teams who have earned their spot in FIFA's vaunted global tournament. Iran's team moved its base camp from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana after a dozen of its staff members had their US visas denied. The tensions have created an unexpected solidarity between Mexicans and Iranians -- a football friendship already evident during Iran's first match against New Zealand, also held in Los Angeles.

In Los Angeles, a city steeped in Mexican culture, a large portion of the crowd cheered for Iran during their match. The support was so noticable that Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi offered his thanks to Mexican fans. "We're looking forward to the next two matches, we hope they'll keep supporting us this way," he said after the game.

"The support from the Mexican fans has been unbelievable," said Iranian American YouTuber Art Eftekhari, who has a channel devoted to the Iranian national team. The 44-year-old said their support helps make up for all the controversies surrounding Team Melli. Besides, beyond the way the United States has treated the team, the welcome from Los Angeles's large Iranian diaspora community has been mixed: many in the stadium cheered the players, but boorf the Iranian anthem in protest of the Islamic Republic.

"I try not to pay attention to that, I'm just focusing on the match," Eftekhari said. "The warm welcome of Mexican fans makes us forget about what's happening off the pitch." For Latino plans, it's the setbacks and the discord that motivates them to raise their voices for Iran's players.

"I think that they're being treated unfairly," said Nikkole Martinez, a 24-year-old fan of Mexican descent who lives in the Los Angeles area. "At the end of the day, they're just young men trying to play the sport they love, it has nothing to do with their government. They should be treated fairly and equally, as much as everybody else."

The Iranian squad voiced protest this week because the Belgian team was allowed to enter Los Angeles on Friday, but Iran wasn't allowed to travel into the US until Saturday. "For this game, they're at a disadvantage. They absolutely don't deserve that," Martinez said, adding that she likes to root for underdogs.

Another fan who traveled from Tijuana, 25-year-old Jaen Pina, agreed that Iran's treatment was unfair. "The Belgian players are well-rested, while the Iranian team is not, so that's a big disadvantage," Pina said. Pina admits he does not know any Iranian players, but he knows the team faces big Belgian stars and he supports Team Melli on principle, because of the visa and travel issues they have faced.

"To be honest, that's bullshit, why do they do that?" Pina said. "That's why I'm with them, because this World Cup has become political." 

Bangladesh, however, made three changes to the line-up from the previous game in a bid to avoid a whitewash with Soumya Sarkar, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain and Mustafizur being left out of the squad. Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam and Nurul Hasan Sohan replaced them. Australia squad unchanged from the series-clinching victory in the previous game. 

Line Ups:

Bangladesh: Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon (wk), Towhid Hridoy (capt), Shamim Hossain, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed

Australia: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Josh Inglis (wk), Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Matt Renshaw, Nikhil Chaudhary, Joel Davies, Aaron Hardie, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Adam Zampa

Gull Feroza scored 23 off 18 balls before being caught by Sobhana Mostary off Nahida, while Muneeba Ali made 25 from 30 deliveries before becoming Nahida's second victim. Ayesha Zafar attempted to keep Pakistan in contention with 11 off 12 balls, but her dismissal by Sanjida Akter triggered the collapse. Sanjida claimed three crucial wickets as Pakistan struggled against Bangladesh's disciplined bowling attack.

Apart from the top three batters, only Fatima Sana reached double figures, scoring 10 runs from 17 balls. Pakistan eventually finished on 100-8 in their allotted 20 overs. Earlier, Bangladesh made a shaky start after electing to bat first, losing three wickets for just 13 runs. The innings was revived through a 35-run partnership between Sobhana Mostary and captain Nigar Sultana Joty.

Sobhana contributed 22 off 19 balls before her dismissal, while Joty anchored the innings with 36 from 38 deliveries. Ritu Moni added seven runs but Bangladesh's scoring rate slowed during the middle overs. The late charge came from Shorna Akter, who hammered an unbeaten 22 ball-39, helping Bangladesh post a competitive 123-6. With two wins from three matches, Bangladesh moved to third place in Group A with four points. They will face India and South Africa in their remaining group-stage fixtures as they continue their pursuit of a semifinal berth.

The European champions arrived in North America as one of the favourites, but with Lamine Yamal only able to appear as a second-half substitute on his return from injury, La Roja were unable to find the target against Cape Verde. De la Fuente, who confidently described his squad as the best in the world before the tournament, said they would show their true colors on Sunday.

"This generation of footballers is highly competitive and really fired up... It's going to be a completely different story," he said at his pre-match press conference on Saturday. "There is no drama or crisis. The bottom line is simply that we need to win tomorrow." Speculation about Yamal's fitness has dominated Spain's camp. The 18-year-old winger is still not ready to complete a full game, but De la Fuente is under pressure to play him from the start. "The most important thing is that he's back," he said. Saudi Arabia also drew their opening game 1-1 with Uruguay. 

Cape Verde, the team that frustrated Spain, will play "without fear" when they face Uruguay in Miami on Sunday, coach Pedro Leitao Brito, known as "Bubista", said. "We didn't come just to take part. We want to play all the matches and to be able to show that we have the level to take on the best teams in the world," he added "Our aim is to play all the games with courage, in an organised way but also without fear." Vozinha, the 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper who held Spain at bay with a remarkable performance, will be watched by his mother on Sunday after she arrived in Miami on a US visa.

Ana Candida Evora travelled from Cape Verde's capital Praia after her son tearfully told reporters she had not been granted a visa in time for the first game, but the US State Department has now provided her with the necessary document. In other games on Sunday, Iran face Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt face New Zealand in Vancouver. Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said he has been told US travel restrictions on his team will finally be eased for their third group game, against Egypt in Seattle on June 26, but he claimed the treatment they have received so far had adversely affected their on-field performance.

Despite that, Iran remain in contention after drawing 2-2 with New Zealand in their first game. On Saturday, Germany booked their place in the knockout rounds with a dramatic injury-time winner in a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast. Substitute Deniz Undav scored a 68th-minute equalizer before slotting the winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time to settle an enthralling contest in Toronto. It is the first time since 2014 that Germany have reached the last 32. "This is exactly what we hoped for and I'm very happy for my team," coach Julian Nagelsmann said.

Germany's victory was made even sweeter later on Saturday as Curacao -- the smallest country by population ever to qualify for the World Cup with just 160,000 inhabitants -- dug deep to secure a shock 0-0 draw with Ecuador in Kansas City that ensured the Germans will win Group E with a game to spare. Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room was their hero, keeping out a record 15 shots -- the most ever saves in a game that did not involve extra time -- as the underdogs secured their first ever World Cup point. In Houston, the Netherlands stayed firmly on course for qualification with a 5-1 demolition of Sweden in Group F.

Japan are now level on four points with the Dutch after cruising to a comfortable 4-0 victory over Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico in Saturday's late match -- the 1,000th game in World Cup history.

The Blue Samurai, who held the Netherlands to a 2-2 draw in their Group F opener, were always in control against Tunisia at the Monterrey Stadium. The result marked a losing start for new Tunisia manager Herve Renard, who was hastily appointed to take over the World Cup campaign after predecessor Sabri Lamouchi was sacked in the wake of the Sweden drubbing.

But Renard's team never looked like threatening a technically superior Japanese side that were quickly into their trademark, smooth passing game. Daichi Kamada opened the scoring after just four minutes, finishing from close range after deft interplay from Ao Tanaka and Keito Nakamura.

The Japanese almost scored again moments later, with only a desperate goalline clearance from Dylan Bronn denying the Asian giants a second goal. Tunisia goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen was also working overtime, and had to claw away a shot that just went agonisingly short of crossing the goalline.

Japan though finally added to their tally in the 31st minute, with striker Ueda taking advantage of some hesitant Tunisian defending to surge forward and thunder a low shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. The rout continued in the second half, with Junya Ito latching onto a brilliant through ball to calmly finish on 69 minutes before Ueda scored again with a looping header in the 83rd minute.

Group E

In Toronto

Germany 2 (Undav 68, 90+4) Ivory Coast 1 (Kessie 30)

Group E

In Kansas City

Ecuador 0 Curacao 0

Group F

In Houston

Netherlands 5 (Brobbey 5, 17, Gakpo 47, 54, Summerville 89) Sweden 1 (Elanga 59)

Playing later

Group F

In Monterrey, Mexico

Tunisia 0 Japan 4 (Kamada 4, Ueda 31, 83, Ito 69)

The 35-year-old all-rounder narrowly missed out on what would have been his first first-class century in 11 months when he was bowled by Harry Conway just after tea at Chester-le-Street. Stokes hit 18 fours as he helped Second Division leaders Durham reply to Northamptonshire's 450 -- a total which built on a career-best 187 from Ricardo Vasconcelos.

Durham had been struggling at 30-3 but after Stokes's innings, 62 from Will Rhodes saw them reach 302-7 at stumps on the second day. England's decision to omit Stokes at the Oval led to a flurry of speculation over his international future amid fears he might be stripped of the captaincy, stand down by himself, or even walk away from representing his country permanently.

But recent British media reports have indicated Stokes could return to England duty as soon as next week's series finale against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.

But there was a concerning sign for Australia when Mooney pulled up after running two at the end of the 14th over and immediately left the field. Mooney did not return to to keep wicket because of a stiff back and with emergency keeper Phoebe Litchfield also absent due to a quad injury, Georgia Voll took over behind the stumps. Netherlands captain Babette de Leede marked her 100th T20 international with an unbeaten 56 and put on 96 with Sterre Kalis (44) but an upset never looked likely.

Saturday's second Group A match at Southampton saw Bangladesh eliminate border rivals Pakistan with a 23-run win. Bangladesh could only manage 123-6 but spinners Nahida Akter and Sanjida Akther Maghla took three wickets each as Pakistan were restricted to 100-8. Pakistan openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza shared a partnership of 49 before a collapse saw eight wickets lost for 31 runs.

Bangladesh, in trouble at 92-6 in their innings, were indebted to Shorna Akter's unbeaten 39 from 22 balls. All-rounder and captain Fatima Sana, who this week became the first Pakistani woman to sign a deal to play in English cricket's Hundred competition, took 2-18 but only managed 10 with the bat. Bangladesh are now third in Group A but, with only the top two in the two pools qualifying the semi-finals, they face a tough task in reaching the knockout stages with games against India and South Africa still to come.

In Group B, England made it three wins out of three with a comfortable 38-run defeat of neighbours Scotland at Headingley despite being without injured captain Nat Sciver-Brunt. Sophia Dunkley (57) and Alice Capsey (40) were the main contributors to a total of 200-5 also featuring all-rounder Freya Kemp's rapid 39 not out. It was too much for Scotland, who finished on 162-7, with England's spinners taking the bulk of the wickets.

That has required frequent cross-border travel, and US authorities have only permitted the team to remain in the country for a few hours after each game, with restrictions frequently shifting last-minute. After playing Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday, Iran's final group game will take place in Seattle next Friday against Egypt.

Ghalenoei on Saturday said he had been told his team will have more flexibility for their final match, before quickly adding that it would have been "justice" for his team to have the same treatment for its first two games. "They said in Seattle, you can do what you want, you can act the way you want to, and you can come earlier," he told a press conference, without specifying who exactly the information had come from. "But what I want, my problem is, why didn't they let us come earlier for the first two games as well?

"I just know for the last game, yes, they've allowed us to decide, to make our own decisions with regards to planning the travel. "But unfortunately, for the first two games, others made these travel arrangements for us, and the timing for us." Last week Iran drew 2-2 with New Zealand, the tournament's lowest-ranked team, with sloppy defending twice allowing the All Whites to go ahead before Team Melli equalized.

"There were errors, individual ones, and also with regards to this defense we had, and I think we were playing... we were doing too many passes," said Ghalenoei. "And I think, because we have been flying too much, commuting, as a result of this long commute, we've been tired." The manager said restrictions on his team had been even more onerous for Sunday's upcoming game against Belgium, Group G's highest-ranked team.

Ghalenoei said his team had arrived in the US on Saturday less than 24 hours before kickoff, despite being briefly told by FIFA on Friday early afternoon that they may be able to travel that day. "We waited till 7.00pm, nothing happened, and they said, 'Sorry, we weren't able to do that," said the coach. "That's going to affect us mentally, especially me as a head coach, because I want to focus on technical stuff," he said.

Iran had only been able to do half its usual pre-game training session, complained Ghalenoei. All four teams in Group G currently have one point, with only the top two guaranteed to reach the knockout stages. A majority of third-placed teams across all groups will also progress, depending on their performance. 

Stevens, never a PGA Tour winner, sank a seven-foot birdie putt at the first hole and answered a bogey at the third with a 10-foot birdie putt at the fifth. Scheffler, who would complete a career Grand Slam with a victory Sunday on his 30th birthday, birdied four of his first seven holes on the back nine, including three in a row at 14, 15 and 16, to grab a share of third with fellow American Xander Schauffele and South Korean Tom Kim.

Scheffler had opened with back-to-back bogeys, sliding to two-over. But the American birdied the 10th from just inside eight feet, then reeled off three straight birdies -- holing a 65-foot birdie chip at 14, sinking a 12-foot birdie putt at 15 and making a tap-in birdie at the par-five 16th. Second-ranked Rory McIlroy, who won his sixth major at April's Masters, was on two-over.

The six-time major winner from Northern Ireland answered a bogey at the third with three consecutive birdies -- sinking a three-foot birdie putt at the par-five fifth, holing out from the fairway from 66 feet for birdie at six and rolling in a putt from just inside 17 feet. But McIlroy made bogeys on four of the first six holes on the back nine to stumble back.

Turkey's defeat means they become the second team after Haiti to be eliminated from contention.

After an unconvincing build-up to the World Cup, the Americans have made a dream start to the tournament with Friday's victory following a stylish 4-1 demolition of Paraguay in their opening game last week. A day of celebration for the co-hosts got even better later Friday after Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkey confirmed that the US would clinch top spot in Group D, ensuring a theoretically easier draw in the last 32. "It was a fantastic game again, very good first half," Pochettino said. "I think we dominated the game against a very tough team.

"When the draw happened in December I thought it was going to be a really difficult, a really tough game." Paraguay meanwhile remain alive in the tournament after their gritty 1-0 victory in Santa Clara that eliminated Turkey. Matias Galarza's strike after just 63 seconds secured all three points for Paraguay in a game that saw the South Americans' Miguel Almiron become the first player ever to be sent off for covering his mouth while confronting an opponent under new FIFA rules.

Former Newcastle player Almiron was given his marching orders in first half stoppage time after covering his mouth while he appeared to direct a comment at Turkey's Mert Muldur. FIFA announced in April that players who cover their mouths in confrontations with opponents will be given a red card, part of an initiative designed to tackle racism. In other games on Friday, Brazil took control of their destiny in Group C with a 3-0 victory over Haiti that ended the Caribbean nation's chances of reaching the last 32.

Two goals from Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha and a Vinicius Junior strike sealed a comfortable win for the Brazilians in a one-sided game at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field. The result ensured Haiti will finish bottom of Group C and are the first team to be eliminated from contention for a place in the knockout rounds. Brazil's victory though was marred by an apparent injury to star forward Raphinha, who left the game in the 40th minute after an innocuous-looking tussle with Haiti defender Martin Experience.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti was unable to provide an update on Raphinha's injury afterwards, instead preferring to praise his team's "complete" performance. "It was a complete match, much better in the first half," Ancelotti said. "It was what we expected from this game: better quality, fewer mistakes, more effectiveness in attack and more control at the back." Brazil are now level on four points with Morocco in Group C, but lead the North Africans on goal difference.

Morocco secured their first win of the tournament on Friday with a 1-0 defeat of Scotland at Foxborough, Massachusetts. Ismael Saibari scored the games's only goal, lashing home a thunderous angled strike in the second minute to leave the Scots reeling. Morocco will face Haiti in their final Group C game on June 24, while Brazil take on the Scots in Miami.

"Tonight we showed we can compete with the teams in the top 10. Brazil will be a different game, they play with less structure but they have quality that can hurt you at any point," Scotland's John McGinn said. "We will need to be at our best. We know what we need to do to try to get through to the next round."

Group C

In Foxborough, Massachusetts

Scotland 0 Morocco 1 (Saibari 2)

In Philadelphia

Brazil 3 (Cunha 23, 36, Vincius Junior 45+3) Haiti 0

Group D

In Seattle

USA 2 (Burgess 11-og, Freeman 43) Australia 0

In Santa Clara, California

Turkey 0 Paraguay 1 (Galarza 2)

Bangladesh is represented by a 10-member contingent, comprising five senior and five junior gymnasts. In the junior division, Uting Wang Marma produced an outstanding performance to qualify for the Vault final, scoring 12.850 points to finish among the top performers in the 53-member field. He will compete in the final tomorrow (Sunday).

In the senior division, Rajib Chakma delivered a historic performance by scoring 13.366 points to finish ninth among 67 competitors, earning the position of first reserve for the Vault final. He remains in contention for a place in the final should any qualified gymnast withdraw. Rajib's achievement is the best-ever performance by a Bangladeshi gymnast in the senior category at the Asian Gymnastics Championships. He has also secured direct qualification for the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, marking another landmark achievement for Bangladesh gymnastics.

The qualifying tournament will be held in Uzbekistan from August 25 to September 6, 2026, where Bangladesh have been drawn in Group B alongside hosts Uzbekistan, Syria, and India.

Earlier, on Thursday last, the Bangladesh U-20 national football team announced its pre-preliminary squad, marking the first phase of preparations under incoming head coach Gerard Jones (UK) ahead of the continental qualifiers.

The preliminary squad includes Ismail Hossain, SP Rafiz, Nahidul Islam, Raj Chowdhury, Yousuf Ali, Mithu Chowdhury, Abdul Tiyad, Sifat Shahriar, Azam Khan, Sani Das, Ishan Habib Riduan, Sheikh Sangram, Masud Rana, Chandon Roy, Sameul Raksam, Kamal Merdha, Ratul Hasan, Nazmul Huda Faysal, Md. Shafiq Rahman, Shorif Uddin Nirob, Md. Mahe Khan, Md. Manik, Rifat Kazi, Ashik, Joy Ahamed, Safiul Hasan, Moltaza Alam Himel, Ikramul Islam, Opu Rahman, Hadi Rahman, Siam Omit, Shawon Ritghil, Sabbir Islam, Eshan Mallik, Ibrahim Nawaz, Zidane Yousuf, Salah Uddin Shahed, Sree Sumon Soren, Murshed Ali, and Adam Abbas.

In the fifth-round game, played on Friday last with Tahsin registered an impressive victory and secured three points from five matches.

Earlier, in the fourth-round game, he shared the point with Kush Devnani of India after the match ended in a draw.

Progressing to the knockout round would be a relief for the Germans who astonishingly have failed to reach that stage since they won their fourth World Cup in Brazil in 2014. So tight are the margins that Ivory Coast could lock up their place in the next round too, if they beat the Germans. Nagelsmann said his team had to be prepared for Ivory Coast's athleticism. "Their speed is one of their biggest strengths and that's what I think they do best," he told reporters, highlighting the French-born Ivorian winger Nicolas Pepe.

"During the last game, he was everywhere," Nagelsmann said of Pepe. Sweden face the Netherlands in Houston knowing that a win will secure a place in the knockout round -- an extraordinary turnaround for the Scandinavians who only qualified for the World Cup through through the Nations League, essentially the back door. Coach Graham Potter warned that Sweden striker Alexander Isak will get "stronger and stronger" as the tournament goes on.

Isak had a poor season by his standards, interrupted by frequent injuries, after Liverpool paid Newcastle United a British record œ125 million ($165 million) for him. He made a strong start to the World Cup though as the 26-year-old scored one goal and set up two in the 5-1 thrashing of Tunisia. "Alex has had a season that has been interrupted," Potter said. "Most football players would say they need a certain amount of time and games to get up to top, top level, so we've had to try to build Alex up. I think there's more to come from him."

History will be made in another of Saturday's games as Japan face Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico for the 1,000th game at a World Cup. Hajime Moriyasu warned his Japan side they will need to match the intensity of a Tunisia team fired up by the introduction of coach Herve Renard after Sabri Lamouchi became the first coach in World Cup history to be sacked after one game. On Friday, the United States marched into the knockout round with a 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle.

A day of raucous celebrations for the co-hosts got even better when Paraguay's 1-0 win against Turkey confirmed that the US would clinch top spot in Group D, ensuring a theoretically easier draw in the last 32. A Cameron Burgess own goal in the 11th minute and a headed effort from Alex Freeman two minutes before half-time sealed a comfortable three points for Mauricio Pochettino's USA side, who have won the group with a game to spare.

After an unconvincing build-up to the World Cup, the Americans have made a dream start to the tournament with Friday's victory following a stylish 4-1 demolition of Paraguay in their opener. "It was a fantastic game again, very good first half," Pochettino said. "I think we dominated the game against a very tough team. "When the draw happened in December I thought it was going to be a really difficult, a really tough game."

The victory means Mexico are guaranteed to finish in top spot in Group A with a game to spare following South Africa's 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic earlier Thursday. Finishing top keeps Mexico at home in the last 32 with a game against a third-placed team in Mexico City. South Korea are second on three points, with the Czech Republic and South Africa also still alive on one.

In other games on Thursday, Canada moved to the brink of the last 32 after overwhelming nine-man Qatar 6-0 to secure their first ever World Cup victory in Group B. Switzerland, also in Group B, reignited their campaign with a resounding defeat of Bosnia-Herzegovina in Los Angeles. Tournament co-hosts Canada had lost all six of their previous matches at the World Cup, at the 1986 and 2022 finals, but brought that run of losses to a halt in spectacular fashion at Vancouver's BC Place stadium.

With Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney -- wearing a replica Canada shirt -- among a fired-up crowd, Jesse Marsch's side ran riot to secure a win that leaves them needing only a point against Switzerland to finish top of Group B. A hat-trick from Juventus striker Jonathan David, one goal apiece from Cyle Larin and Nathan Saliba, and a Mohammad Manai own goal sealed Canada's win.

The victory was marred though by a serious left leg injury to midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off after being clumsily upended by Qatar's Assim Madibo in the 51st minute. Madibo was initially shown a yellow card for the challenge which was subsequently upgraded to red. The stricken Kone was given oxygen as he was carried off the field, waving to fans.

Canada coach Jesse Marsch revealed afterwards Kone was being treated in hospital for a suspected broken leg, adding that his staff had understood the severity of the injury immediately. "It was right in front of us, and everyone could hear the bone snap," Marsch said. "I haven't spoken to Ismael yet, but he's at the hospital. He will prepare for a surgery.

"Everybody's a little shaken by the whole experience because of the nature of the injury, and also because Ismael is a big part of the heart of our team. It will be a big loss for us." Earlier, Switzerland got their campaign back on track with a 4-1 drubbing of Bosnia-Herzegovina at the SoFi Stadium. Johan Manzambi scored twice while Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka were on target in a late flurry of goals for the Swiss, who are dreaming of advancing beyond the last 16 for the first time at this World Cup.

Bosnia, who upset Italy in a playoff to reach this year's tournament, are nearing an early exit after a loss that leaves them with one point from two games. In other games on Thursday, South Africa resurrected their slender qualification hopes with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Atlanta. Teboho Mokoena's penalty earned a point for South Africa after Michal Sadilek opened the scoring for the Czechs. But Mokoena's late spot-kick kept both teams in the hunt for the last 32, although they will almost certainly have to win their final Group A fixture to advance.

Iran wanted to fly from their base camp in Tijuana, Mexico, to the United States two days before their next match, against Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday. But the Iranian federation claims its request was turned down. "Given that the game will be played at 12:00 pm local time in Los Angeles, the Football Federation of Iran requested that the team be allowed to travel to Los Angeles two days before the match," the spokesman said.

"The aim was to provide sufficient time for players to adapt to the match conditions, complete their final training session, and finalize preparations. "Despite the technical reasons presented by the federation, the request was once again denied."

"Given that the game will be played at 12:00 pm local time in Los Angeles (1900 GMT), the Football Federation of Iran requested that the team be allowed to travel to Los Angeles two days before the match." It said the aim of its request was to allow players "to adapt to the match conditions, complete their final training session, and finalize preparations". "Despite the technical reasons presented by the federation, the request was once again denied," the federation spokesman added. "The federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with FIFA through the appropriate channels."

The Iranians were also angry that they had to leave Los Angeles the night of their first game of the World Cup, a 2-2 draw against New Zealand. The US administration has pushed back against the Iranian claims. Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, said on Monday that Iran had been informed in advance that they would only be allowed to enter the United States on the day before the game. "The team will be allowed to come in, match day minus one, so the day before the match," Giuliani told CBS News.

"They'll be asked to leave the day that the match wraps up, so the evening of the match. And they'll be able to do that again in Los Angeles." He added that the procedure would be the same for Iran's final group game against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Iran had a troubled buildup to the World Cup due to the war in the Middle East. It switched its training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana on the US-Mexico border shortly before the tournament began and says up to 15 team officials have been refused visas to enter the United States.

South Africa has been gripped for months by protests demanding the departure of undocumented immigrants. The marches have never exceeded a few thousand people, but they have been accompanied by a torrent of xenophobic hatred online and received significant media attention. That has flipped the usual script during the World Cup, when African nations traditionally support each other.

"We support all the other African teams. This is to teach them that there are consequences," said Shahim's friend, Fatma, a 34-year-old farmer. "When you have a superiority complex, you suffer alone," she added. South Africa says it has repatriated 2,745 foreigners following President Cyril Ramaphosa's promise to crack down on illegal immigration. Ghana and Nigeria have repatriated several hundred of their citizens, and some 600 Mozambicans returned home after violence in the southern city of Mossel Bay that left at least two dead.

It has shocked many across the continent and turned football fans against the Bafana Bafana, as the South African team is known. There was joy when the team lost to Mexico last week. A popular social media meme showed a map of the African continent covered with the Mexican flag, excluding South Africa. "The whole continent seems to have become Afro-Mexican," quipped Wode Maya, a popular vlogger in Ghana, asking his fans to reply in Spanish.

Even a spokesperson for the Confederation of African Football, Ibrahim Sannie Daara, joined in, posting on X: "You cannot mistreat Africa and still expect Africa's full blessing on the world stage," though he later moderated his remarks and called on all Africans to wear the South African jersey. The atmosphere remained light-hearted in the Nairobi bar visited by AFP for the Czech Republic match -- which ended in a draw -- where a few South Africans were present.

Edwin, a 50-year-old Kenyan communications professional, said he was determined to support all African teams: "You can't judge a whole country because of a minority." He recalled even harsher times in east Africa, when dictator Idi Amin Dada expelled tens of thousands of Ugandans of Indo-Pakistani origin in 1972.

But others were less forgiving. "It is not because you don't have jobs that you can attack Africans," said Richie, a Tanzanian consultant visiting Nairobi, recalling his country's support for black South Africans during the apartheid era. "Unless they change, we will do it over and over," he added. The South African Football Association issued a statement on Wednesday denouncing the "online harassment and abusive messages" directed at its players, which it said was "unacceptable".

At a press conference on Thursday, Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams admitted "it does hurt". "You want to focus on doing your job, which is being a footballer, but then you get involved in politics and you don't want to get into that space," he said.

The 72-1 against Australia was indeed Bangladesh's fifth highest runs in the first six overs behind 76-4 against New Zealand in 2013 in Mirpur, 74 for no loss against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2018 and 73 for no loss against Ireland in 2023 in Chattogram. Australia which won the first match by four wickets compiled 196-5, their best T20 total against Bangladesh, thanks to career-best 48 ball-89 not out from Matt Renshaw.

After electing to bat first, captain Mitchell Marsh and Josh Iglis gave the side a fluent start but none of them converted it to big knock. Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed gave the side first breakthrough, trapping Inglis leg-before for 11 while Mustafizur Rahman sent back Marsh for 20.

Nahid Rana, one of the two changes for Bangladesh, removed Cooper Connolly for 1 before Renshaw and Tim David put on 97 runs from 50 balls to pave the platform for big total. David hammered 45 off 26 with two fours and four sixes before he was dismissed by Abdul Gaffar Saqlain. Renshaw who smashed four fours and five sixes guided the lower order to edge the side closer to 200-run mark.

"Japanese men spend among the least time on housework internationally," read the post, which has been viewed 1.9 million times. "Please do it at home," the post said, with a satirical illustration showing a fan who proudly cleans up the stadium is, in fact, relaxing on a sofa at home, oblivious to the pile of laundry and his wife or mother doing the dishes. Japanese men participate notoriously little in household chores, with women spending 5.5 times more time than men taking on "unpaid work" such as shopping, domestic chores and caregiving, the Cabinet Office says, citing 2021 OECD data. The gap is far greater than in Britain, France and the United States, where women spend 1.8 times, 1.7 times and 1.6 times -- respectively -- longer than men doing unpaid work. While supporters describe the act of cleaning up the stadium as proof of Japan's cultural altruism, others have also seen it as slightly performative. And opinions have been divided on the viral X post. "Wives struggling with husbands who don't clean at all should have them wear Samurai Japan uniforms at home too," one comment said. "This is too much of generalisation -- not all Japanese men are like that," another user wrote.

England's position would have been worse but for tailender Matt Fisher's 50 not out -- his maiden Test half-century. Fisher, on his Surrey home ground, was supported in a last-wicket stand of 53 by Sonny Baker, one of three England debutants, after they came together with the hosts in dire straits at 238-9. England had resumed play on 222-6 on Friday morning. 

Debutant Jordan Cox was 22 not out and he quickly clipped Kyle Jamieson for four as play got underway beneath sunny skies on a pitch of even pace and bounce -- seemingly ideal conditions for batting. But Cox fell for 27 after a full-blooded clip off Henry was caught by diving New Zealand captain Tom Latham. Henry, troubled by back spasms at Lord's, struck again with the aid of another well-executed tactical ploy when Jofra Archer was out for eight after a top-edged cut was brilliantly caught by wicket-keeper Tom Blundell, standing up to the stumps.

Josh Tongue's miscued drive off Henry was well-held one-handed, at the second attempt, by a back-pedalling Nathan Smith at mid-on. Tongue's exit gave Henry his seventh five-wicket haul in 35 Tests. Fisher and Baker then hung on against a succession of bouncers, with fast bowlers on both sides curiously reluctant to test the tail-enders with yorkers instead. Fisher, in just his second Test and first in four years, even hooked the odd short ball for four and, giving himself room outside leg stump expertly cut several deliveries to the boundary.

A pull off Henry, his sixth four in 76 balls faced, saw Fisher to his fifty. By that stage New Zealand had taken the new ball and that did the trick when Baker nicked Jamieson to second slip.

The Black Stars didn't attempt a shot on goal through the first half. The second half played out under steady rain at the Toronto Stadium but saw more sustained attacking play. Cristian Martinez triggered a massive roar from the loud Panamanian contingent when he lashed a shot into the side-netting in the 60th minute. But the match looked headed for a scoreless draw until Yirenkyi put the Black Stars ahead. Ghana's veteran coach Carlos Queiroz turned to his side's fans after the goal, urging them on in celebration. Queiroz only took charge of the Black Stars a couple of months before the start of the tournament.

Wednesday's fixture made him only the second coach to appear in five consecutive World Cups, after leading Portugal in 2010 and Iran in 2014, 2018 and 2022. Loud boos rang out across the crowd of nearly 43,000 during a second-half hydration break under pouring rain. Ghana triumphed despite being without Villarreal midfielder Thomas Partey, who is facing trial on rape charges in Britain. Canadian authorities denied him a World Cup visa, over the British case.

"Oh my God, they're amazing. I have enjoyed so much watching them enjoy the city," Cara DiBenedetto, a 54-year-old resident of Boston's North End, told AFP. "It's really kind of renewed my love of Boston because I'm seeing them see things that I take for granted and it's been great." Reports have put the estimated number of Scottish fans in the Massachusetts city for the team's opening World Cup game against Haiti last weekend at 40-50,000, and a fresh wave are expected for Scotland's second match against Morocco on Friday.

The Tartan Army were a welcome feature of many major tournaments towards the end of the last century. But before this year they had not qualified for a World Cup since 1998, and fans jumped at the chance to cross the Atlantic to follow Steve Clarke's team, not remotely put off by the cost of tickets or the current political climate in the United States. "Not at all. If anything that is the sort of thing I will lie to my wife about," joked Jamie Grewar, 42, who came from Edinburgh with two friends for the Haiti game, each paying 500 dollars a ticket plus the considerable cost of travel and accommodation.

He was speaking in New York City, where he was spending the night before taking the train north. On the streets of Manhattan, Scottish fans in replica jerseys and kilts were visible at almost every intersection. They saw their team beat Haiti 1-0 thanks to a John McGinn goal in front of a majority of Scottish fans in the 64,000 crowd at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, 20 miles south of downtown Boston. "I didn't realise until we actually stepped out onto the pitch just quite how many Scottish people were there," said midfielder Lewis Ferguson.

"Our support is never in doubt. They will travel everywhere, they always have and always will." Fans then returned into the city to celebrate the only way they know how -- NBC News said one bar ran out of its local lager over the weekend "because Scottish soccer fans drank it dry". "They're great, man. They're great, great people. They showed us nothing but respect," said Chris Wildt, a 49-year-old bartender at the Black Rose.

"They're a little bigger drinkers than we thought, but we appreciate it." On Sunday, after nursing their hangovers, Scottish fans marched together to Fenway Park to watch the Major League Baseball game between the Boston Red Sox and the Texas Rangers. Instagram is awash with viral reels of those fans creating some very different vibes to those usually seen at baseball, singing favourite songs like "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers and "Super John McGinn". "What a night, just a brilliant group of people," says the commentator.

But Scotland don't want to just be remembered for having great supporters. They want to reach the World Cup knockout phase for the very first time. This is Scotland's ninth World Cup, and up to now they have always been eliminated in the group stage. The win against Haiti was only Scotland's fifth in 24 matches at the tournament, and how they needed it given what is to come. Friday's opponents Morocco are ranked seventh in the world and reached the semi-finals in 2022.

Their last Group C game is against record five-time winners Brazil, for which the Boston-based colony of Scots supporters will have to travel south to Miami -- the kilts might weigh a little heavier in the Florida heat. "We know we have the best fan base in the world, we know they follow us in their numbers, we know how long they have been waiting for this moment as well, and we know how excited they all are, and it is up to us to try to give them a good time," said captain Andy Robertson.

Antoine Dupont's Toulouse have reached the last four having finished the regular season at the top of the standings and scored a record 981 points across the campaign.

Manu's Racing booked their place in the semis with a 33-31 win over Pau in last Saturday's play-offs, in the former rugby league star's maiden campaign in the Top 14.

"When I came to France, the boys started talking about how good Toulouse are, they're awesome," Manu told AFP on Wednesday.

"There's respect for them as a team, what they've achieved over the years.

"You don't fear anyone, you don't fear any team," the 29-year-old added with a place in June 27's final on the line.

Manu arrived in the plush western suburbs of Paris after a season in Japan having made the switch after a trophy-laden spell with the Sydney Roosters.

Having started four straight games earlier in the calendar year, Manu has been used off the bench by head coach Patrice Collazo in their end of season run-in.

"Playing rugby league, the backs don't really come on as substitutes," Manu said.

"Then playing rugby, I started trying to get used to coming off the bench and learning that role of how you impact a game.

"I just try to adapt well and try to bring as much intensity as I can from starting or from coming on the last 20 minutes, the last 15," he added.

Manu's game time has been restricted due to the talent that Racing, six-time champions, have at their disposal

- 'Real threat' -

France's experienced midfielder Gael Fickou as well as Fiji pair Vinaya Habosi and Josua Tuisova compete with Manu for a place in the run-on team.

"They've all got different traits," Manu said.

"Naya and Josh are powerful ball runners. I just try to build a connection with them.

"I know that's their strength, so I want to use them up as much as I can.

"They're a real threat, those boys," he added.

Racing's hopes of booking a place in their first Top 14 final since have been handed a boost with Toulouse set to be without full-back Thomas Ramos and his sure-fire boot.

In the other semi, Montpellier, who finished second in the table face Stade Francais 24 hours later at the Stade Velodrome on the Mediterranean coast.

Montpellier, champions in 2022, are unbeaten in their last 10 games across all competitions, including May 21's Challenge Cup final triumph over Ulster.

Fixtures (both 1905GMT)

Friday

Toulouse v Racing 92

Saturday

Montpellier v Stade Francais

With a chaotic game locked 2-2 at the break, Bellingham scored two minutes into the second half to put England on the way to an ultimately fairly comfortable win. It capped an all-action display from Bellingham, who started ahead of Morgan Rogers, and he told the BBC: "For me personally it was nice to put some of the noise aside and show my country, show my team-mates, how committed I am to helping us win football matches." Bellingham, who could play a vital role for England if they want to win their first major trophy since 1966, said it had been "a tougher season" for me.

But he comes to football's biggest stage feeling "fresh and sharp and strong, and ready to give everything". He added: "I've got a little bit of a chip on my shoulder." Asked if that helps him play better, he replied: "I think so. That helps me a lot to find that focus early in the game, to find that intensity. "I know it's part of being a footballer, I don't hold a grudge about anyone that says bad things about me because sometimes I do deserve it. "Today I think it was nice to try and show people and remind people what I'm about."

Tuchel, who once described Bellingham's on-field behaviour as "repulsive", before apologising, challenged him to show the same level for however long England are in the tournament. "A very good player, he deserved to start," said the German coach. "And that's what he needs to do, fight for his place, to keep his place, that's what he did, it was good."

But the Koreans' preparations on Tuesday were interrupted by the incident, which prompted fears of spying, with reports stating that the drone was brought down by Mexico's military. "Yesterday during our training there was a drone in the sky, and we came to know about the fact. But fortunately it was right before we practiced our tactics, so it did not impact us significantly," said the coach. "But, while we were preparing for the match, that was the most important timing. So, what happened was unfortunate," he told a press conference.

Mexican federal authorities did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while officials in the state of Jalisco told AFP they had no formal record of the incident. Drone flights have been banned over stadiums and facilities hosting World Cup matches and events in Mexico, as well as the United States. Korean coach Hong said he expected a challenging clash against Mexico, praising the opponents' "creative" midfield and telling reporters he expected a vocal home crowd to play a role.

"We fully understand that it's going to be a match with the home team, and we know that that's going to give benefits to the home team," he said. "But my players have experienced such matches before, so it will be different tomorrow, and we need to control the rhythm and the flow of the match." Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's opening game last week, while South Korea came from behind to defeat Czechia 2-1.

One of the favourites to win the tournament in North America, England conjured up numerous chances after that through Kane, Bellingham and Nico O'Reilly, before substitute Marcus Rashford wrapped up the three points. The victory showed England at their attacking best, but they were flimsy at the back, especially in the first half. Asked how they had pulled away after the break, Kane said of the coach Tuchel: "He gave a great speech to be honest, especially the way we conceded that second goal just before the half-time.

"He just told us to let the shackles off, calm down, what are we scared of? Let's just go. "The way we conceded that second goal, it's not the team we want to be, dropping deep, waiting and conceding anyway. "He kind of just said, what's the worst that can happen? We lose a match, first group game, we get on with it, we move on, let's just go and show the world who we can be. "And I think we've done exactly that second half."

The German Tuchel, tasked with taking England to their first major trophy since 1966, said he thought his side were nervy and passive in the first half. Tuchel called the first 45 minutes "complicated". "I felt a bit nervy," he told ITV. "The decisions we took were basically, we chose to go safe and play too many balls backwards. "We struggled to find the rhythm, didn't have the confidence to go through the gaps and find the rhythm in some short passes and then the switch of play."

Tuchel was much happier after the break as England ran out ultimately fairly comfortable winners. "I love the reaction of the players into the second half, the second half was excellent," he said. "We deserved to win, but it was emotional, a lot of emotions involved and it took us a while to get going, but we did get going, and that's positive."

"It was frightening, because there was an expectation that we would produce a big performance," said the 34-year-old Flamengo defender. "When things don't work out, it's not easy to digest. "We need to find balance. We were unbalanced both tactically and mentally," he added. Danilo acknowledged that Brazil are currently a step behind favourites such as defending champions Argentina and France, but stressed they remain among the leading contenders.

"We have to be clear: we don't yet have the maturity that France or Argentina have today as a team," he said. "That doesn't mean we can't perform well, win matches and go far. "If we can add one more star to the shirt, that would be wonderful." Despite Brazil's clear superiority on paper, Danilo said the team respected Haiti, pointing to surprise results at the tournament such as Cape Verde's 0-0 draw with Spain in Group H. "Everyone saw how Cape Verde defended against Spain," he said. "Talking about thrashing Haiti would be crazy." Danilo also said he hoped injured forward Neymar would be fit to return soon from a calf injury that has kept him out of action since mid-May.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star received a playful guard of honour from his team-mates Wednesday as he trained with them for the first time at this World Cup. "I often talk with players about opponents... If you have a player like Neymar up against you, there's more pressure and you're always asking for help," he explained. "Just by being on the pitch, he can disrupt everything the opponent has prepared."

The Colombians went ahead when Daniel Munoz volleyed in Diaz's superb pass after 40 minutes but Abbosbek Fayzullaev equalized before Diaz settled the contest in the 65th minute and Jaminton Campaz scored a third in the dying seconds.

Attendees, who do not require a ticket, will be required to undergo security screening, with extensive restrictions on permitted items. The parade, which kicks off at 1400 GMT, will see the Knicks travel from Bowling Green at the bottom of Manhattan to City Hall, a 10-block route known as the "Canyon of Heroes." They will be showered with 2,500 pounds (1.1 tonnes) of recycled confetti, according to the city.

After the parade, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani will award keys to the city to the victorious squad at City Hall. "From packed watch parties in our parks to joyous celebrations that spilled out onto our streets, this championship belongs to New York City," said Mamdani. Typically the preserve of the city's "great and good," leftist Mamdani is giving away 600 tickets for the ceremony at City Hall to ordinary Big Apple residents.

"The Knicks brought together New Yorkers from every borough and every walk of life. That's why we're making these tickets free and accessible -- so working-class people have a chance to be part of this historic moment and celebrate the team that brought a championship home," he added. Crowds at the City Hall event will be treated to an all-star show, team owner James Dolan told local media.

"We have everybody from Walt Clyde Frazier from the old team to the new team, the Knicks City Dancers, there's like five marching bands," he said, adding that Grammy winner Alicia Keys will sing "Empire State of Mind" -- the smash hit she recorded with Jay-Z in 2009. Ticker-tape parades trace their origins to the late 1800s with the first such celebration marking the dedication of the Statue of Liberty. The city, already swarming with football fans for the World Cup, faces traffic chaos with a number of street closures enforced across Manhattan from late Wednesday.

No one can match the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's 143 international goals. But he has failed to net in his last nine matches at major tournaments and offers little in a defensive role when the opposition are in possession.

Martinez, though, has no doubt he remains Portugal's best option up front. "He is an example and a reference for football. For all those children on the street who begin to feel the love for sport, following the example of Cristiano Ronaldo is wonderful," Martinez told a press conference ahead of Portugal's World Cup opener against DR Congo. "It is his sixth World Cup, but I can say that internally it seems to be his first World Cup in terms of intensity, in terms of emotional output, of how important it is for him to be prepared to lead the group.

"Within the team he is a vital player because he is the finisher, he is the player in the penalty area, he is the player who has those movements that can open spaces for other players. Within our attacking game, his numbers reflect the importance he has." Bruno Fernandes said his first experience of a major tournament as a child came on home soil, when a 19-year-old Ronaldo helped Portugal reach the final of Euro 2004.

"All of us in this national team we have grown up watching Cristiano Ronaldo play and for us it's such an honour to play next to him now in the same team," said the Manchester United captain. "We're all here to support him and to support Portugal to go as far as possible." Fresh from winning Premier League player of the year accolades, Fernandes is part of one of the strongest midfields in the World Cup.

Vitinha and Joao Neves have recently won a second consecutive Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, while Bernardo Silva is set to join Real Madrid after a trophy-laden nine years at Manchester City. "We have a very strong team, great individual quality, and beyond the individual quality and the strengths that we have as individual players, I think we are a very cohesive team, a very united team," added Fernandes.

"Obviously our dream is to be there (winning the World Cup) and I think that dreaming is not forbidden." Portugal will also face tournament debutants Uzbekistan and Colombia in Group K. Martinez, though, warned against looking beyond DR Congo after the shock Spain suffered in being held 0-0 by Cape Verde in their opening match.

"We've got very little to win tomorrow from the outside. If you win against Congo, it's expected. If you win by one, it's a big problem. If you draw, it's a catastrophe. If you lose, this is the end of the world," said the Spaniard. "They come with no expectations, they are enjoying being here. We've seen incredible performances from teams like Qatar, Cape Verde, exemplary performances, that shows you that there are no easy games in a World Cup."

Martinez also confirmed reports he is set to leave his role after the World Cup when his contract expires. "My contract ends after the World Cup. This is not news, this is just a fact," he added. "We're now focused on finishing the work that we've begun three-and-a-half years ago. "When I came to Portugal the focus was to try to win everything, but most importantly to prepare for the World Cup."

Ibrahim Mbaye was on the mark for Senegal. Mendy said that even though they may have had the better of the first-half, the Lions of Teranga had failed to execute their game plan. "We were a bit sluggish in the first-half," the 34-year-old told beIn Sports. "We knew that in the second we had to raise our level, be more cutting edge in attack. "We were at times, although against teams like these, you have to be totally on your game defensively and offensively.

"You cannot take your eye off the ball because you are up against pure talent." Mendy, a Champions League winner with Chelsea in 2021, said he did not believe there was a gaping chasm between the two teams. "We know what our qualities are and that we are capable of playing better," he said. "We were especially lax when it came to retaining possession, we should have been more consistent in keeping it. "But then again we did have a very good team as the opposition today." Mendy, an Africa Cup of Nations winner in 2021, said there was still all to play for in terms of reaching the second round.

The 2002 quarter-finalists have Norway next Monday followed by Iraq four days later. "As I said even if we won this match, the group would still be open," said Mendy, who plays his club football for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli. "Today we lost but just as in 2022 (when they lost their opening group game but recovered to reach the knockout stages) we must rest and focus on Norway."

And the 38-year-old, who made his first appearance at a World Cup as a teenager in 2006, lit up the occasion with three goals in a clinical display by the reigning champions. "To enjoy this with my family, with my teammates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment," said the Inter Miami star. "I'm happy." He added: "I'm grateful to the fans, because once again they've shown that Argentina is crazy about this. We packed the stadium again."

Messi produced a majestic finish from distance in the 17th minute, sparking a frenzy among his adoring fans, who had turned the match into a virtual home game. He netted again in the second half from close range, gobbling up a rebound to take him just one goal behind the all-time record held by Germany's Klose. And Messi completed his first hat-trick at a World Cup with an unstoppable finish in the 76th minute. The diminutive genius was substituted shortly afterwards, forcing Argentine fans to wait to see their hero have a shot at the outright record.

The Group J match in the open-air stadium started at a frantic pace and both sides had early goals ruled out for offside, including one from Messi. But Argentina took the lead when Rodrigo De Paul played a beautifully measured through ball, which Messi picked up before driving at goal and unleashing a fierce drive from outside the penalty area that curled away from goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

The South American team were largely in control, fluid in attack with their revered number 10 pulling the strings. But as the clock ticked towards half-time Algeria enjoyed a better spell, with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez forced to parry a shot from Fares Chaibi. Messi curled another effort over the bar in the early minutes of the second half and Zidane kept out a shot from Lautaro Martinez.

But the crowd did not have to wait long to celebrate another goal from the veteran Inter Miami forward. Zidane failed to deal with a sizzling Alexis Mac Allister strike and Messi was there to sweep home in the 60th minute. Time stood still six minutes later as Messi was through again but this time Zidane pushed the ball over the bar. But he was not to be denied, completing his hat-trick after being set up by substitute Nico Gonzalez.

"I don't have the words to describe Messi," said Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni. "For 20 years, he's had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play." Argentina are seeking to become the first back-to-back winners of the World Cup since Brazil managed the feat in 1962. Earlier, the roads around the stadium were clogged as tens of thousands of Argentine fans streamed towards ground dressed in blue and white, many with Messi's name on the back of their shirts.

Argentina's all-time top-scorer is just the third man to reach 200 caps after Cristiano Ronaldo and Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa. Ronaldo will equal Messi's record of six World Cup appearances if he plays for Portugal against DR Congo on Wednesday.

"Following efforts by the Football Federation and coordination with FIFA, the player was issued a new multiple-entry visa today," a team official said. "With this visa now secured, Torabi will have no issues accompanying Iran's national team in its upcoming matches and will be available to travel with the squad throughout the remainder of the tournament." Iran's final group game is against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

The visa issue was the latest complication for the Iranian team in the run up to the World Cup. Team Melli's participation had been in doubt since the United States and Israel launched a bombing campaign against Iran in late February. Tehran hit back at US allies in the region, targeting infrastructure and closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a waterway through which 20 percent of the world's oil passes.

A plan to station the team in Arizona was scrubbed at the 11th hour, with a new base camp being established in Tijuana, Mexico instead. US officials denied visas entirely for more than a dozen support staff, meaning they could not travel to the games. Coach Amir Ghalenoei complained Monday that Iran was the "most oppressed team in the World Cup" after his players were suddenly informed they must travel back to Mexico immediately after their opening game ended.

"They delayed our arrivals, (now) they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery," Ghalenoei told journalists. "They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles, but we're not going to let that stop us from doing our best."

Croatia face England on Wednesday in Texas in one of the most attractive fixtures of the group stage in North America.

The 40-year-old Modric will lead out Croatia, who beat England in the World Cup semi-finals in 2018, and will pull the strings once more in midfield.

Along with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, this will be the last dance for one of the most acclaimed players in the world over the past 20 years.

Modric, now with AC Milan after more than a decade at the heart of Real Madrid's midfield, is set to win his 200th cap for his country in North America.

"Every game, every tournament is special at 40 with the national team," Modric said on the eve of the England clash.

"My aim in this tournament is to enjoy it, to do my best, but enjoy it," he added.

"I want to enjoy each match, every training with these guys."

Croatia strolled through qualifying but come into the World Cup with little fanfare -- much like at other recent major tournaments.

But England will underestimate them at their peril, even if the Croatia squad is one of the older ones at the tournament.

Another veteran of past campaigns, 37-year-old winger Ivan Perisic, is also in the squad alongside Manchester City pair Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic.

There is excitement about defender Luka Vuskovic, 19, who is expected to start against England, and Modric said: "There are a lot of young players, so I feel rejuvenated with them."

Long-serving coach Zlatko Dalic is looking forward to facing England once more, and seeing how his men stand up to an attack led by the prolific skipper Harry Kane.

"The opponent is high quality," he said.

"We know their quality, we analysed them, and they know us too... they're very dangerous.

"They have the best strikers in the world. They have Kane -- Kane can do a lot, a hell of a lot," he added, saying he was also wary of the threat posed by Thomas Tuchel's side from set-pieces.

"We are quite prepared for that," he said.

Also in Group L are Ghana and Panama.

Brazil's all-time record scorer has yet to return to full training after missing the team's opening 1-1 draw against Morocco on Saturday. Neymar has been an integral part of Brazil's last three World Cup campaigns but there was some surprise at his inclusion this time as injuries have prevented him from playing for his country at all since 2023.

He has featured in just half of his club's games in the Brazilian league, cup and Copa Sudamericana this year due to various fitness issues. Brazil's next game is against Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday. They face Scotland in their final Group C game in Miami on June 24.

Jordan never stopped chasing the game and had the consolation of scoring the first World Cup goal in their history through Ali Olwan.

Real Madrid star Mbappe took his career World Cup goals tally to 14 -- just two behind all-time leader Miroslav Klose -- and Bradley Barcola was also on target as Les Bleus secured all three points for Didier Deschamps' side.

The 38-year-old had started an unforgettable occasion -- his 200th international appearance -- by claiming a piece of history, becoming the first man to play in six World Cups as he led Argentina onto the field for what would become a one-sided Group J clash. Messi, who first played in the World Cup as a teenager during the 2006 finals in Germany, then emphatically stamped his class over proceedings with a memorable hat-trick -- the first of his World Cup career.

A 17th minute curling strike took his World Cup goals tally to 14, putting him alongside German legend Gerd Muller and France superstar Kylian Mbappe in the all-time rankings. He then moved one clear of Muller and Mbappe to join Brazilian great Ronaldo on 15 goals in the 60th minute after pouncing on a rebound from an Alexis Mac Allister shot to make it 2-0. He joined Germany's Klose on 16 goals in the 76th minute, sweeping in a low finish from the edge of the area before departing to deafening applause and a standing ovation from an adoring crowd four minutes later.

Argentina defeated France in an epic 2022 World Cup final in Doha, winning on penalties after a 3-3 draw that saw Les Bleus striker Mbappe score a hat-trick. France -- who could meet Argentina in the final again this year if seedings follow the form book -- launched their tournament on Tuesday with a 3-1 defeat of Senegal, with Mbappe scoring twice to suggest he is more than ready to deliver another big World Cup.

"There are still people out there who will criticise him but he is an extraordinary player," France coach Didier Deschamps said of Mbappe. "Not everything came off for him, but he can win games in one moment." Mbappe's double against the Senegalese also saw him overtake Olivier Giroud as France's leading goalscorer with 58 goals from 99 games.

"I am really pleased for him. He didn't score in the warm-up friendly games but to break the record at the World Cup gives it more impact," Deschamps added. Another potent scorer, Erling Haaland, marked his first World Cup finals appearance with two goals in a 4-1 romp against Iraq in France's Group I. The Manchester City striker pounced from close range on 29 minutes in Foxborough, but Aymen Hussein's header brought Iraq level before Haaland capitalised on an Iraqi defensive error to put Norway ahead again before half-time. He took his international goals tally to 57 in just 51 matches.

Substitute Leo Ostigard headed in a third for Norway and they got a fourth deep in stoppage time through a Hussein own goal to secure three points in their first appearance at a World Cup since 1998. Haaland's goalscoring World Cup debut left Norway coach Stale Solbakken purring with satisfaction. "You could see that he adapted to the occasion, the occasion wasn't too big for him," said Solbakken. "I had a good feeling before the game. I had quite a comfortable feeling that he would do it for us today." In the late game on Tuesday, World Cup debutants Jordan face Austria in Santa Clara, California in Group J.

Bangladesh secured the ODI series 2-1 after outplaying Australia for much of the three-match contest. While the triumph marked Bangladesh's maiden ODI series victory over the Australians, they had previously enjoyed success against them in T20 cricket. Of the 11 T20 Internationals played between the two sides, Bangladesh have won four, all of which came during their memorable 4-1 series victory in Mirpur in 2021, the last T20I series contested between the teams.

Despite concerns over batting depth, Bangladesh captain Liton Das pinned hopes on the side's strong pace-bowling resources ahead of the series. The hosts possess an impressive pace attack featuring Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam and emerging fast bowler Abdul Gaffar Saqlain. Except for Gaffar, all were part of the ODI squad and played key roles in Bangladesh's successful campaign against Australia. "It is good that the pace bowling is very strong. You can play anyone in the best XI. It is a good competition.

It is also good for the Bangladesh team that the bench is getting stronger," Liton said. Liton said the confidence to expect for another series victory stemmed from their ODI series win. "Not only did we win the series, we played very good cricket in all three matches. This is an added bonus. Of course, the format is different, our team is different, their team is also different." "One good thing is that most of our players have played in ODIs. Everyone has confidence. But we have to play very good cricket on a certain day," he said. Australia, meanwhile, avoided a series whitewash with a hard-fought one- wicket victory in the third ODI after losing the opening two matches.

The visitors have been boosted by the return of regular captain Mitchell Marsh, who missed the ODI series due to an ankle injury. Australia have also included all-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary in their T20 squad. If selected in the playing XI, he could become the first Indian-born male cricketer to represent Australia in more than six decades. Chaudhary was brought into the squad amid the continued absence of Travis Head, who has been granted personal leave after initially being named in Australia's limited-overs squads for the Bangladesh tour.

Squad Bangladesh: Liton Das (Captain), Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Saif Hassan, Shamim Patwari, Towhid Hridoy (Vice Captain), Nurul Hasan Sohan, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain and Soumya Sarkar Australia: Mitchell Marsh(c), Xavier Bartlett, Nikhil Chaudhary, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matthew Kuhnemann, Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw and Adam Zampa.

Despite their proud record in the competition, Germany have struggled in recent editions and this was the first time they had won their first opening match at a World Cup since they lifted the trophy in 2014. "It took us a few minutes to get back into the game after they equalized. Curacao can play football too, as we saw, and I'm curious to see how they'll fare in the group going forward," said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. "I'm very satisfied with us scoring seven goals and our performance for the most part. A winning start is always important and we're glad we managed it," he added.

Curacao will hope they can get more out of their remaining Group E games against Ecuador and Ivory Coast. "It is not embarrassing to lose like that against such a team," said their 78-year-old Dutch coach Dick Advocaat. In other games on Sunday, Japan fought back twice to seal a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands.

Skipper Virgil van Dijk had put the Dutch ahead with a fine header at the home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, only for Keito Nakamura to quickly level, before winger Crysencio Summerville's sumptuous curled finish into the bottom corner just after the hour. Japan earned a point with an 89th-minute deflected equalizer attributed to Daichi Kamada. In Philadelphia, a last-gasp 90th-minute goal from Manchester United's Amad Diallo gave Ivory Coast a precious 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Group E.

An entertaining battle between two evenly matched sides looked to be heading for a draw until Diallo popped up to side-foot home a finish from Wilfried Singo's low cross. In the late game on Sunday, Sweden face Tunisia in Group F. Off the field, all eyes turned to Los Angeles where Iran's footballers finally arrived on US soil after months of uncertainty in the build-up to the tournament following the United States and Israel's military assault on the Islamic Republic.

Iran, who relocated their team training camp to Tijuana in Mexico from Arizona due to diplomatic wrangling, take on New Zealand in Group G on Monday. The Iran team has had to leave some of its support team in Tijuana after the US refused to grant visas to administrative and management staff. At an eve-of-game press conference that got under way just over an hour after Tehran and Washington announced a peace deal to end the conflict, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said political tensions and visa issues had hampered his team's World Cup preparations.

But Ghalenoei insisted his players would not "pay attention to any of the hype." Protests are planned outside the SoFi Stadium on Monday by members of the Iranian diaspora opposed to the nation's hardline regime, and there have been threats that the Iran team could walk off the pitch if anti-government banners are displayed. "We are here to perform a good match, a high-quality match. We don't pay attention to any of the hype and anything that goes on around us," Ghalenoei said in a press conference in response to a question from AFP.

"Naturally, all teams have their own problems, and in many countries, many things happen that have nothing to do with football." The coach said his team are simply at the World Cup to "represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora." "We are not political people... football is separate from politics," said Ghalenoei. 

The former Liverpool captain said the Real Madrid star had made huge progress since his international debut as a 17-year-old in 2020. "How much he's grown as a player and as a person since then is incredible, really," said Henderson. "I had a good idea when I first saw him playing and training and the way he was. But what he's done so far at such a young age, I think everybody forgets how young he is, even me really sometimes."

The Brentford player added: "I honestly couldn't speak highly enough of him. I know a lot gets written in the media. I find it hard to read sometimes, really, because I just know how big an influence he is on this team, how good a teammate he is off the field. "And what he gives us is just something really special, really. I think he really gives us the X factor in our team. "He's had big moments in his career. He's a big-game player. He's got experience in tournaments. So he's a huge, huge player for us in this tournament."

Henderson, speaking a day after England arrived at their World Cup base in the Midwest, also spoke highly of Tuchel. The German, who has managed a string of top clubs including Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, took charge at the beginning of last year with a brief to win England's first World Cup since 1966. "I feel as though in the space of maybe just over a year, year-and-a-half he's changed quite a bit to be honest and created a really good environment, really good culture with the group," said Henderson. "But then it's up to the players to then lead that and take that forward, which I feel as though we have done and it's just about building that now.

"We've got a lot in the bank, how well we've worked over the past year or so to get to this point." England face a stiff test against Croatia in their Group L opener in Arlington, Texas, on Wednesday, before matches against Ghana and Panama. Henderson, 35, picked out the threat of fellow veteran Luka Modric, who is 40.

"For me, he's probably the best I've played against in my career midfield-wise," he said of the AC Milan man. "I think his career speaks for itself. "I think he's a top world-class player, so hard to play against... I'm a big, big fan of his and hopefully he doesn't perform as well as we know he can against us."

It is Ivory Coast's first win at a World Cup in exactly 12 years, since they beat Japan in Brazil in 2014, and they can now be confident of making the knockout phase at the tournament for the first time. It was a disappointing way to start for Ecuador, who had the majority of the 68,274 crowd at the packed Philadelphia stadium kitted out in yellow and backing them. They hit the bar twice in the first half, through John Yeboah and Alan Minda, while Elye Wahi struck the same crossbar for the Ivorians after half-time.

Ivory Coast, African champions in 2024, will now hope to build on this when they play Germany in their next game in Group E in Toronto on Saturday. The Ecuadorians will look to bounce back when they head to Kansas City the same day to play Curacao, the debutant minnows who were hammered 7-1 by Germany earlier in Houston. Ecuador, coached by Argentinian Sebastian Beccacece, had a remarkable record in South American qualifying as they finished second behind Argentina.

With a defence marshalled by Paris Saint-Germain's Willian Pacho and Chelsea's Moises Caicedo patrolling the midfield, they conceded a miserly five goals in 18 qualifying games, but scored only 14. Remarkably, eight of their 18 matches ended in 0-0 draws, and six featured a single goal. Ivory Coast were nevertheless confident of causing their opponents problems with exciting young RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande a danger on the flanks and recent French-born recruit Wahi leading the line. A match watched by US rap mogul Jay-Z was cagey at times but came to life midway through the first half as the frame of the goal was rattled for the first time.

Yeboah, the former German youth international who plays in Italy's Serie B for Venezia, pounced on uncertain defending at the edge of the box and crashed a shot off Yahia Fofana's bar. The Ivory Coast goal was living a charmed life as Ecuador struck the woodwork again on the half-hour mark, Pedro Vite slipping in Minda to be denied this time. Emerse Fae's Ivorians looked dangerous intermittently, notably when Nicolas Pepe was denied by a last-ditch challenge after Diomande had raced away from Piero Hincapie.

The Elephants had never reached the World Cup knockout phase in their three previous appearances but surely knew a win here would practically secure their passage to the next round. Wahi, who finished the club season at Nice in France, turned a Diomande cross from the right onto the bar shortly after the restart. Seko Fofana forced a save from Hernan Galindez in the Ecuador goal, but the match seemed to be petering out to a goalless conclusion until the late drama. Wilfried Singo went on a rampaging run from defence down the Ivorian right, before delivering a low centre for Diallo to score with a sidefoot finish, and silence the Ecuador support.

Protests are planned outside the stadium by members of the Iranian diaspora opposed to the nation's hardline regime, and there have been threats that the Iran team could walk off the pitch if anti-government banners are displayed. "We are here to perform a good match, a high-quality match. We don't pay attention to any of the hype and anything that goes on around us," Ghalenoei said in a press conference in response to a question from AFP. "Naturally, all teams have their own problems, and in many countries, many things happen that have nothing to do with football."

The coach said his team are simply at the World Cup to "represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora." "We are not political people... football is separate from politics," said Ghalenoei. The press conference took place barely an hour after a peace deal between the US and Iran was announced, bringing an "immediate and permanent" end to miltary operations on all fronts. Controversy surrounding the Iran team has drawn headlines but is far from the only political issue affecting the World Cup that the US is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.

Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the US for the World Cup, as have been many fans. "It's not just Iran that has been impacted, as you know," said star striker Mehdi Taremi. "Others, including a referee, have been impacted." He said the tension surrounding the tournament "undermines that joy and it undermines the message of FIFA or people, which is about football that brings about peace." "I have felt the tension from the first moment we arrived at this World Cup, and whenever at any tournament there is tension, of course, we don't have the same beautiful experience that we always talk about, about peace, joy for the people of every country."

Iran was originally supposed to base their training camp in the US, but switched to Tijuana in Mexico at late notice. "We arrived late, and we didn't have enough time to adjust... it will affect us, but God willing, I know that my players are very determined to do their utmost and show the highest quality," said Ghalenoei. "Of course, our camp was changed twice, first it was in the United States, then we were transferred to Mexico and of course that impacts us," the coach added. "But we Iranians make opportunities out of hardship, and we don't think about anything other than bringing joy to our people, and we will do our utmost, and the rest is up to God the Almighty." Iran has never reached the knockout rounds of a World Cup. Their Group G also contains Belgium and Egypt.

"We've been discussing how much we want to enjoy the match and the World Cup," Bubista told a press conference. "It is an amazing opportunity to show our country to the world. We are very much happy to face Spain in the opener, this is a dream coming true." Cape Verde were one of 13 football federations to hit out at UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Sunday over remarks that an expanded tournament would lead to "completely uninteresting" matches. In remarks by Ceferin reportedly made before the tournament to Slovenian newspaper Delo, the UEFA chief said the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams this year -- up from 32 in 2022 -- would dilute the quality of the competition.

"We are happy to be here, I believe it is an opportunity for teams from smaller countries to have a chance to participate and play and compete, so to us we are proud of being here," Bubista told AFP. "Our flag will be flying, that is the most important thing, among the best football nations in the world. "There is no greater joy than that because we are a small country and we will do our very best so that every Cabo Verdian may feel proud of our participation."

Spanish superstar Lamine Yamal is set to only make his World Cup debut from the bench as he is eased back into action from a hamstring injury. The Barcelona winger lit up Euro 2024 as La Roja romped to success in Germany and is hoping to make similar impact on the World Cup at just 18 years of age. "If it is the World Cup of Lamine I don't know. There are many great players from many different countries," said Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes. "We are up against one of the best teams in the world, we can just hope it is our day and get the best result possible."

"We know Ecuador is a big team. We had to be patient and wait for our opportunity and we got the goal." The West Africans are appearing at their fourth World Cup but the first since 2014. They have never made it past the group stage but are well placed to do so with games still to come against Germany and Curacao. "We haven't come here just to be part of it all. We want to make history," said Diomande. He will face some familiar faces when the Ivorians take on four-time World Cup winners Germany, packed with Bundesliga stars, in Toronto on June 20. Germany thrashed Curacao 7-1 to open their account on Sunday.

"We'll do everything we can to win the next match," said Diomande. "We know that playing against Germany is a tough game and they are one of the biggest teams in the world. We're waiting for them, but the most important thing is to stay calm and be humble." Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae credited his side for the way in which they overcame their World Cup nerves as they rode their luck in the first half when Ecuador twice hit the bar.

"The players were a bit on edge. It was a first World Cup for everyone, so there was a bit of tension. They were afraid to take risks," said Fae, who guided the Elephants to an Africa Cup of Nations title on home soil two years ago. "We managed to hold on and dig in," he added. "In the second half we were a lot more focused... and we have attacking players who can make the difference at any moment." The loss snapped a 19-match unbeaten run for Ecuador dating back to September.

"It's difficult to start with a loss," admitted captain Enner Valencia. "This squad has a history of coming through difficult situations. This will be just another one. I'm sure we'll pull through."

"Japanese people think that when we use a certain place, we were told that you have to make that place look tidier when you leave than it was when you arrived," said the 20-year-old, clasping a beer and a couple of cups, and wearing Japan's blue shirt. "For example, at school in our classrooms we tidy it up after ourselves without our teacher telling us." Japan are appearing at their eighth straight World Cup and their fans' cleanliness has become their international calling card.

NFL quarterback Jameis Winston could even be seen joining in the clean-up after Sunday's game, wearing a blue Japan shirt with his name on the back. Japan fan Futo Hagiwara said he was proud that the behaviour of his countrymen had been recognised in a positive light. "This is our culture, that means everywhere we go we need to clean it after ourselves, it's our spiritual way, our attitude," he said.

Sociologist and philosopher Masachi Ohsawa believes a mix of social responsibility and peer pressure is behind the fans' behaviour. "While Japanese people tend not to take much interest in justice on a large scale -- issues like global inequality, conflict or climate change -- they are extremely sensitive to moral considerations on a smaller scale," he said. "When it comes to people who they share the same space with or have direct personal contact with, they feel a strong desire not to cause them any trouble or make them feel uncomfortable."

Cleaning chores are a part of Japanese education from an early age, and children can be seen scrubbing floors and tables at schools every day. Public waste bins are scarce in the country, and people are expected to take their rubbish home with them. Getting rid of household waste can be a labyrinthine task that involves separating rubbish into different categories. Scott North, emeritus professor of sociology at the University of Osaka, said he and his neighbours get together twice a year to pull out weeds and rake up cuttings.

He said such groups are organised into leaders and followers, and operate in a similar way to Japanese football supporters. "Since everyone comes together, there's an expectation that they'll act as a group," said North, an American who has lived in Japan for about 40 years. "And when the leaders break out the bags and say here you go, nobody is going to say no." Sociologist Ohsawa said such behaviour could be explained by what Japanese people refer to as "reading the air".

"In Japan, even if one person starts picking up litter, those around them feel they simply cannot help but join in," he said. "That's because if they don't, the people they are with will think they are a bad person." He said peer pressure was a powerful social force. "In this case, the primary motivation isn't so much a desire to keep the stadium clean or to avoid causing trouble for the people who have to clean the stadium afterwards," he said. "It's more a desire not to be seen as a nuisance in one's own group."

Whatever the reasons, Japan's fans will keep tidying up for as long as they stay in the tournament. Their next game is against Tunisia in Mexico on Saturday, and fan Hagiwara is happy to keep leading by example. "We usually don't tell children they should do it," he said. "We just show our actions and behaviour, and other people follow."

Iran were initially to be based in Tucson, Arizona for the tournament, but switched their training base to Tijuana, Mexico at the 11th hour as a result of ongoing tensions with World Cup co-hosts the United States over visa issues. US authorities have refused to grant visas for several members of the Iranian delegation.

Protests are planned outside the stadium by members of the Iranian diaspora opposed to the nation's hardline regime, and there have been threats that the Iran team could walk off the pitch if anti-government banners are displayed during the Group G clash. Speaking to reporters at a press conference on Sunday, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said he hoped his team's performances at the World Cup could unite all Iranians at home and overseas.

"We are here to perform a good match, a high-quality match. We don't pay attention to any of the hype and anything that goes on around us," Ghalenoei said in response to a question from AFP. "Naturally, all teams have their own problems, and in many countries, many things happen that have nothing to do with football." The coach said his team are at the World Cup to "represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora."

"We are not political people... football is separate from politics," said Ghalenoei. Iran's World Cup debut comes just a day after Washington and Tehran announced a permanent deal to end their ongoing conflict. In other games on Monday, European champions Spain launch their quest for a second World Cup crown in Group H against Cape Verde, the 2,500-1 outsiders from the Atlantic archipelago who are making their first appearance in the World Cup.

Spain are regarded as one of the favourites for this year's World Cup, boasting a squad bristling with talent that defeated England in the final of the European Championship in Germany two years ago. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente did little to dampen the expectation surrounding his players on Sunday, confidently describing his squad as the best in the tournament. "For me, with all due respect to the rest, it is the best team in the world. The best players," he said.

"To see the level of footballers we have, you only have to see the ones I leave out.

"But the players understand their role and accept it. That is the luck this team has."

Cape Verde coach Bubista insists the African qualifiers are not just making up the numbers in the World Cup as they prepare for the opener in Atlanta.

"We've been discussing how much we want to enjoy the match and the World Cup," Bubista said. "It is an amazing opportunity to show our country to the world. We are very much happy to face Spain in the opener, this is a dream coming true."

In other games on Monday, Saudi Arabia face Uruguay in Group H in Miami, while in the other Group G game, Belgium face Mohamed Salah's Egypt in Seattle.

In Sunday's games, Germany opened their tournament with a 7-1 drubbing of Curacao in Group E while Japan twice came from behind to grab a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in Group F in Arlington, Texas.

In Philadelphia, a last-gasp 90th-minute goal from Manchester United's Amad Diallo gave Ivory Coast a precious 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Group E.

Sweden opened their campaign in Group F with a swashbuckling 5-1 rout of Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico.

Sweden, who only squeezed into the World Cup via the playoffs thanks to their performances in the Nations League, ran the North Africans ragged and romped to an impressive victory thanks to two goals from Yasin Ayari and one apiece from Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres and Mattias Svanberg.

The Dutch looked like they would hold on, but Japan levelled at the death with Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada credited with the goal after a deflection. "We are not completely satisfied with the draw," said Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu, whose side face Tunisia on Saturday in a competitive-looking Group F. "But the Netherlands are a top-class team and we tried to compete at the same level.

"We were tenacious but patient and kept calm." Japan and the Netherlands are missing key players through injury, but on paper this was still one of the more attractive fixtures in the group stage. Both have been touted as dark horses capable of going far at the tournament -- the Dutch have been runners-up three times whereas Japan have never gone beyond the last 16. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman, the former defender charged with finally delivering World Cup glory, was given a grilling by Dutch media afterwards especially for his substitutions.

"I am disappointed that we did not win," said Koeman, who pointed the finger at his side's defending. "But I am not that negative," he said to one line of questioning that he took exception to. "I saw a team that has made great progress," he added of his men. "Of course we can perform better and need to grow during the tournament." The Netherlands made a confident start and nearly took the lead after three minutes, Donyell Malen swivelling and forcing a smart save from Zion Suzuki.

The impressive air-conditioned arena is usually home to the Dallas Cowboys, and at the hydration break the NFL team's cheerleaders were shown on the massive screen hanging over the pitch performing one of their routines. The stoppage seemed to help the Dutch and Roma forward Malen again worked Suzuki with a header from a corner.

Japan's fans, who had hardly stopped singing and outnumbered the Dutch contingent, were briefly silenced. The first real chance for Moriyasu's team came a few minutes before the break when a cross evaded the backtracking Summerville but Nakamura pulled his effort wide. The Dutch had looked most threatening in the air, so it was no surprise when Liverpool talisman Van Dijk rose to plant a well-placed header into the bottom corner after a pinpoint cross from his club team-mate Ryan Gravenberch on 51 minutes.

The lead lasted just six minutes, Nakamura wriggling free and firing low past goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, the ball taking a small deflection off Jan Paul van Hecke. In a madcap period of play, the Dutch forged ahead once more on 64 minutes when West Ham's Summerville beat his man on the right wing and curled into Suzuki's bottom-right corner with his left foot. Both teams rang the changes and had chances to score again, before Kamada's chaotic leveller from a corner. Sweden face Tunisia later Sunday in the other Group F game of the day.

But they were soon outclassed as Felix Nmecha opened the scoring for the Germans and Kai Havertz grabbed a goal in each half, including a penalty. Despite their proud record in the competition, Germany have struggled in recent editions and this was the first time they had won their first opening match at a World Cup since they lifted the trophy in 2014. "It took us a few minutes to get back into the game after they equalized. Curacao can play football too, as we saw, and I'm curious to see how they'll fare in the group going forward," said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.

"I'm very satisfied with us scoring seven goals and our performance for the most part. A winning start is always important and we're glad we managed it," he added. Curacao will hope they can get more out of their remaining Group E games against Ecuador and Ivory Coast. "It is not embarrassing to lose like that against such a team," said their 78-year-old Dutch coach Dick Advocaat. In other games on Sunday, Japan fought back twice to seal a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands.

Skipper Virgil van Dijk had put the Dutch ahead with a fine header at the home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, only for Keito Nakamura to quickly level, before winger Crysencio Summerville's sumptuous curled finish into the bottom corner just after the hour. Japan earned a point with an 89th-minute deflected equalizer attributed to Daichi Kamada. In Philadelphia, a last-gasp 90th-minute goal from Manchester United's Amad Diallo gave Ivory Coast a precious 1-0 victory over Ecuador in Group E.

An entertaining battle between two evenly matched sides looked to be heading for a draw until Diallo popped up to side-foot home a finish from Wilfried Singo's low cross. In the late game on Sunday, Sweden face Tunisia in Group F. Off the field, all eyes turned to Los Angeles where Iran's footballers finally arrived on US soil after months of uncertainty in the build-up to the tournament following the United States and Israel's military assault on the Islamic Republic.

Iran, who relocated their team training camp to Tijuana in Mexico from Arizona due to diplomatic wrangling, take on New Zealand in Group G on Monday. The Iran team has had to leave some of its support team in Tijuana after the US refused to grant visas to administrative and management staff. At an eve-of-game press conference that got under way just over an hour after Tehran and Washington announced a peace deal to end the conflict, Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said political tensions and visa issues had hampered his team's World Cup preparations.

But Ghalenoei insisted his players would not "pay attention to any of the hype." Protests are planned outside the SoFi Stadium on Monday by members of the Iranian diaspora opposed to the nation's hardline regime, and there have been threats that the Iran team could walk off the pitch if anti-government banners are displayed.

"We are here to perform a good match, a high-quality match. We don't pay attention to any of the hype and anything that goes on around us," Ghalenoei said in a press conference in response to a question from AFP. "Naturally, all teams have their own problems, and in many countries, many things happen that have nothing to do with football." The coach said his team are simply at the World Cup to "represent the respectful people of Iran, be it the Iranians inside Iran or the Iranian diaspora." "We are not political people... football is separate from politics," said Ghalenoei.

The Liverpool forward raced forward and cut inside before unleashing a shot, which goalkeeper Mouhib Chamakh failed to keep out, even though he got a hand to the ball. Tunisia did not concede a single goal in qualifying, becoming the first side to achieve that feat, subsequently matched by Ivory Coast and England. Sweden threatened to overwhelm their opponents but the match changed complexion minutes before half-time when Omar Rekik headed home Hannibal Mejbri's teasing cross.

However, the Scandinavian nation restored their two-goal cushion in the 59th minute after another defensive calamity for Tunisia. Midfielder Ellyes Skhiri was caught in possession on the edge of the box by Isak, who fed Viktor Gyokeres and the Arsenal man fired home. Substitute Mattias Svanberg made it 4-1 late on after VAR ruled he was onside.

And there was still time for another stunning goal from Ayari from outside the penalty box. Sweden reached the quarter-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia but did not qualify for the tournament in Qatar four years later. Tunisia were the first African team to win a World Cup match when they beat Mexico in 1978, but they have never progressed beyond the group stages. Earlier in Group F, Japan scored late to draw 2-2 against the Netherlands.

Nagelsmann brought him out of international retirement after he helped Bayern win the Bundesliga title and reach the Champions League semi-finals this season. The 2014 World Cup-winner has had to nurse a calf injury in the buildup to the 2026 tournament and played no part in the 4-0 friendly win against Finland and the 2-0 victory against the USA. Nagelsmann compared the meeting of the four-time World Cup winners with the team from the tiny Caribbean island to a domestic club match.

"This is a German Cup situation. David versus Goliath," he said. The Curacao players "are all well-trained and can go into the tournament without pressure. That always makes an opponent dangerous," Nagelsmann said. "You never win a match just because you're favourites. We will win a match only if we produce a perfect performance. "We're going to try to show our best level."

Fitness problems had been a persistent problem after he burst onto the scene as a teenager. After a superb breakthrough season in 2020/21, Pedri's starring role as Spain reached the semi-finals of Euro 2020 meant he played 73 matches for club and country, a toll which was too much for his developing body. Barcelona turned to a specialist myopathy laboratory in the USA for solutions and a study of Pedri's genetics helped create an individual plan that has brought him back to among the world's best midfielders.

Alongside Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Fermin Lopez and Pau Cubarsi he is part of another hugely talented generation of Barca youngsters that have helped the club overcome financial difficulties to remain La Liga's dominant force. Unlike the others, Pedri was not a product of Barca's fabled La Masia academy. He made his breakthrough at Las Palmas as a 16-year-old and quickly broke into the first team after joining Barca in 2020.

Yet, his ability to keep possession and vision to cut defences open is reminiscent of Xavi and Iniesta in their prime. "With Xavi or Iniesta I realised that they are prepared before they receive the ball," Pedri said in a recent documentary on his rise to stardom. "I learned that from a very young age and it was natural to me. What makes a good move is knowing what you are going to before you get the ball."

He will be central to Spain's attempt to match the feats of the golden generation that won the 2010 World Cup, in between two triumphs at Euro 2008 and 2012. Back then Pedri watched on admiringly from a bar, founded by his grandad and run by his parents, in Tenerife that was also the first Barcelona supporters' club on the Canary Island. "Thanks to God I am living the dream that he had," Pedri added of his Barcelona fanatic grandfather, who never got to see him play at the Camp Nou. "It's like something from a movie."

The next step on the Hollywood script would be for Pedri to make his mark on the World Cup and propel himself into the conversation to win the Ballon d'Or -- the prize for the best player on the planet. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente certainly has no doubt that Pedri deserves to be recognised among the world's best. "We don't know what his best version is because he's so good," said De la Fuente, whose side are unbeaten in 31 competitive games heading into the World Cup. "He is limitless."

Spain begin their World Cup campaign against debutants Cape Verde in Atlanta on Monday. They will also face Saudi Arabia and two-time winners Uruguay in Group H. 

Vice-captain Jackson Irvine was also dropped in favour of 21-year-old midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler in a starting XI that featured 10 World Cup debutants. Both of those selections proved to be inspired, with Beach pulling off a string of fine saves to deny Turkey, who dominated possession and territory but could not find a way past the Australian goalkeeper. Okon-Engstler meanwhile was instrumental in setting up the opening goal in the first half, unfurling a long ball that split the Turkish defence and sent Irankunda racing in on goal to score. Turkey -- playing in the World Cup for the first time since finishing third at the 2002 tournament -- arrived in North America dreaming of making a serious run in the knockout rounds.

But their talented team made up largely of players who regularly compete in the European Champions League were unable to get to grips with a well-organised Socceroos line-up. One of Turkey's best chances came in the 27th minute when Real Madrid's Arda Guler forced a smart save from Beach with a rasping shot. Just seconds after that chance though Australia took the lead. Beach picked out Okon-Engstler deep in the Australia half, and the 21-year-old midfielder pumped the ball upfield for Irankunda.

The Australia winger still had plenty to do but a clever first touch took him clear of the covering defence before he tucked away a low finish. Irankunda celebrated by sprinting to the edge of the pitch and pretending to box the corner flag, mimicking former Australia skipper Tim Cahill's signature goal celebration. Turkey thought they had equalised three minutes later after Abdulkerim Bardakci's piledriver from outside of the area hurtled towards goal.

But Beach got the slightest of fingertips to divert the ball onto the post and Australia survived again. Beach kept up his commanding form in the second half, turning a Guler free-kick wide for a corner on 57 minutes. With Beach continuing to make save after save, Australia made the game safe in the 75th minute when Metcalfe picked the ball up in midfield, advanced on goal and shot home from 25 yards.

The win leaves Australia level on three points with Group D leaders the United States, with the two teams due to meet in Seattle on Friday.

“He is okay but has been monitored by the doctors,” Shanto said at the toss, disclosing the current condition of Miraz. Bangladesh won the first match by 86 runs and second game by five wickets, both on DLS method to register its first ever ODI series victory against Australia. The hosts also rested fast bowler Nahid Rana, brining in offspinner Mahedi Hasan for the series final. Australia, too, made two changes to avoid a humiliating whitewash at the hands of Bangladesh.

Pacer Ben Dwarshuis and allrounder Oliver Peake were included, replacing opener Matthew Short and pacer Nathan Ellis. “It has obviously been a disappointing series for us so far. We really want to put in a good performance today and finish it 2-1,” Australia stand in captain Josh Inglis said.

Line Ups:
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Litton Das (w), Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mosaddek Hossain Saikot, Taskin Ahmed, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam

Australia: Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis (w/c), Matt Renshaw, Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Oliver Peake, Xavier Bartlett, Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Zampa, Riley Meredith

Scotland meanwhile marked their return to the World Cup after a 28-year absence with a nervy 1-0 win over Caribbean minnows Haiti in Foxborough, outside Boston. The meeting of Brazil and 2022 semi-finalists Morocco at the MetLife Stadium just outside New York City promised to be one of the early highlights. Ismael Saibari ran through to give Morocco a 21st-minute lead with a clever scoop in the Group C opener, but Vinicius produced a moment of magic to ensure Brazil came away with a point, cutting in from the left and unleashing a thunderous shot to level on 32 minutes.

Brazil are chasing a record sixth World Cup title, 24 years after last lifting the trophy, but Saturday's performance suggests there Carlo Ancelotti's side have a lot of work to do. "I think this was a tough match, especially in the beginning. I think the team was a bit anxious and nerves were all over the place," said Ancelotti. "We didn't play well, but we cannot lose heart. This is the first match in the World Cup and we can't... think the team is doing perfectly from the get-go."

In Group C's other game on Saturday, Scotland -- playing in the World Cup for the first time since 1998 -- were roared on to a hard-fought win over Haiti, themselves playing in their first World Cup since 1974. Hordes of Scotland's famous "Tartan Army" travelling supporters packed the Gillette Stadium, to watch manager Steve Clarke's side claim their first victory in a World Cup game since the 1990 finals in Italy. After a deafening rendition of "Flower of Scotland", the Scots started a physical contest on the front foot, and scored the game's only goal on 28 minutes when midfielder John McGinn's deflected shot flew past Haiti goalkeeper Johny Placide.

"Everyone said it was a must-win game - we won the game," said Scotland manager Clarke, whose team face Morocco on Friday in their second game. In the shock of the day, Australia sent Turkey spinning to a 2-0 defeat in their Group D clash in Vancouver in the late game. The result was dazzling vindication for Australia coach Tony Popovic, who had made the huge call to drop experienced captain and goalkeeper Maty Ryan in favour of rookie shot-stopper Patrick Beach. Beach repaid Popovic's faith in him with an unforgettable performance, making save-after-save to deny the Turks, who enjoyed 72 percent possession and spent long periods camped in Australian territory.

At the other end, Australia took the few chances that came their way with clinical precision, the goals coming from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Another of Popovic's selection calls also proved to be inspired, with Paul Okon-Engstler -- starting in place of vice-captain Jackson Irvine -- setting up Irankunda's opener in the 27th minute. Metcalfe made the game safe for the Australians with an individual strike in the 75th minute.

"Proud to be here as head coach, to experience this...and just happy for a wonderful young group of men," Popovic said afterwards, before praising the contribution of inexperienced goalkeeper Beach. "It's something that we've always seen, and I've got a lot of belief in the young man. He stood up today, so very happy for him," Popovic added. Earlier, Switzerland had taken the lead against Qatar in Santa Clara, California in Group B when Breel Embolo converted a first-half penalty, but Muheim's injury-time own goal secured a share of the spoils.

"I am very proud of the team," said Qatar's Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui. "I told them that even if we hadn't scored the goal and didn't draw I would have been proud of the mentality and discipline that they showed today. But fortunately we scored and that was history." 

The Curacao players' carefree attitude has already won admirers with players singing and dancing bare-chested on the team bus in a viral social media post. "We are a nation that loves to have a little bit of a party as well," said captain Leandro Bacuna. "We love to have fun." Advocaat, 78, is the oldest coach in World Cup history. Despite his vast experience at both club and international level -- he has also taken charge of the Netherlands and South Korea at a World Cup -- the Dutchman said the team spirit that carried Curacao to the tournament was unique.

"The team spirit in this team is something I've never seen before. As a country we will give everything to win for the island, but we're not the favourite," he said on Saturday. Nagelsmann compared the match to a domestic club clash. "This is a German Cup situation. David versus Goliath," he said, and warned his team: "You never win a match just because you're favourites." Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will start in his fifth World Cup. Iran's participation in the tournament was shrouded in doubt for months after the United States and Israel launched an aerial assault on the Islamic Republic that became a wider Middle East war.

But on Sunday the team is due to fly into Los Angeles from its training camp in Mexico on the eve of its first game. Iran take on New Zealand in the city on Monday, marking the first time that a World Cup host has hosted a country it is at war with. But the Iran team has had to leave many of its support team in Tijuana after the US refused to grant visas to 15 administrative and management staff.

In other games on Sunday, the Netherlands play a Japan team weakened by the absence of their injured captain Wataru Endo who announced on Thursday that his international career was over. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu on Saturday described Liverpool midfielder Endo as "hurt" and apologised after saying it had been his call that the 33-year-old should not be involved following a foot injury. In Philadelphia, Ivory Coast face Ecuador and Sweden play Tunisia in the final match of the day.

Sweden had a curious route to the tournament, having failed to win a single match in the qualifying group phase. They only obtained a ticket thanks to their UEFA Nations League performance. Sweden do though boast a strikeforce featuring Premier League stars Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres. Five-time champions Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by a powerful Morocco side as they lit the touchpaper on their challenge on Saturday.

Scotland got their first World Cup win since 1990 as John McGinn's deflected strike gave them a 1-0 win against Haiti. And Australia stunned Turkey 2-0 to give the Socceroos a strong chance of progressing from Group D. 

Hridoy was the top-scorer for the side, hitting an 88 ball-83, a knock laced with eight fours. Liton Das made an unbeaten 58 while Mosaddek was on 56, brining up his second half-century in the series. Najmul Hossain Shanto who led the side in absence of Mehidy Hasan Miraz opted to bat first after winning toss but Bangladesh lost Soumya Sarkar in the fourth ball of the innings, as Xavier Bartlett rattled his stump with searing pace.

Unfazed by the early wicket loss, Bangladesh recovered from Shanto and Taznid Hasan Tamim, who added 51 runs for the second wicket. Matt Renshaw removed both of the batters in quick succession leaving Bangladesh 61-3 in 15th over, with Shanto making 24 and Tanzid scoring 19. Hridoy and Liton Das steadied the innings with 92-run for the fourth wicket and it was only broken when Liton had to retire following a minor injury when he was on 48.

However, Mosaddek joined Liton Das in giving the innings further pace as they combined for a 93-run partnership. Hridoy appeared to be on course of his second century but he miscued a shot to deep mid wicket off Ben Dwarshuis, one of the two changes of Australia for avoiding a series-sweep. Mosaddek who hammered a career-best 80 not out in the first match to script Bangladesh’s first victory against Australia since 2005, raised his fifth half-century from 43 balls with a single. However Liton returned to the field after the dismissal of Mahedi Hasan (3) and completed his 14th fifty to help Bangladesh post a competitive total.

Montgomery, 21, had been ranked a career high 95th in June 2025. The 30-year-old Krejcikova, who won the French Open in 2021 and Wimbledon in 2024 had been seeded eighth and was attempting to win her first title of the season in a first-time matchup against the American.

Yet, a fifty in ODI cricket at Mirpur remained elusive. That wait ended against Australia as Liton reached the landmark in dramatic fashion. After suffering a leg-muscle strain and retiring hurt on 48, he returned later in the innings and completed his half-century with a two-run shot off the final ball of the 49th over. The wicketkeeper-batter eventually finished unbeaten on 58, registering not only his maiden ODI fifty at Mirpur but also his first half century against Australia.

Before the match, Liton's record at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium had been surprisingly modest. In 28 ODI innings at the venue, he had failed to score a fifty, accumulating just 439 runs at an average slightly above 17. A batter renowned for his fluent strokeplay and career strike rate of around 85, he had also struggled to maintain a strike rate of 70 in Mirpur. Although his unbeaten 58 came at a strike rate of 74, the innings carried far greater significance than the numbers suggested.

Liton had shown signs of regaining form at the venue in recent months, producing several scores above 40 during series against Pakistan and New Zealand. However, he repeatedly fell short of converting those starts into a fifty. Against Australia, he finally erased that blemish. Bangladesh were under pressure at 61-3 when Liton joined forces with Towhid Hridoy. The pair added a crucial 92-run partnership that steadied the innings and restored momentum. Their stand laid the foundation for a competitive total in fact.

Asked what he will do to celebrate, he replied: "To be honest, I think I'll probably just, you know, watch some Netflix." Balogun was born in New York but moved to England as a one-month-old and raised in London. He has family across both nations, many of who were in attendance. "Too many, you know!" he joked, adding that he had been charged with procuring countless tickets for relatives on both sides of the pond.

"But I'm happy to do it, because this is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion," he said. Balogun came up through the Arsenal academy ranks, representing both England and the United States in age-group teams. He went on loan to Reims, where his career came to life. Last year Balogun top-scored for Monaco with 19 goals after a reported 40-million-euro transfer. His first season in France's Ligue 1 sparked interest from the US, which lacked a world-class striker, and he was famously courted by scouts, receiving the red-carpet treatment with trips to Florida and NBA ringside tickets.

American soccer fans tracked his every move, before he formally switched allegiance to the US in 2023. "When I committed, and throughout the whole cycle, and the whole journey to me being at this point, I've always said the fans gave me so much motivation and showed me so much support," he said Friday. "For me the most important thing has always been to be able to repay that, so I feel like today's a great opportunity... I just want to continue to show the fans I made the right decision."

Balogun's teammate Christian Pulisic said the US side is "really lucky to have him." "The kid's insane. He's lethal right now in front of goal... Let's just hope it keeps going like this."

But any doubts about their ability to progress past the first round were obliterated in a dazzling first-half display which saw them roar into a 3-0 lead to all but seal victory in the opening 45 minutes. "Just a great start from the guys," US star Christian Pulisic said afterwards. "The guys came out with so much energy, just a great performance and a deserved win. "It's just the start of a long journey. We've got a lot more to do. It's really, really great start and we should be proud but we've got to keep pushing and be ready for the next game."

Pop star Katy Perry got the party started with a rousing performance just before kick-off while Hollywood royalty including Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio and Halle Berry were amongst a 70,492 crowd. The US men rose to the occasion with a performance of flair and precision that will ignite dreams of a deep run in the tournament by the co-hosts, with group games against Australia and Turkey to come. Wave after wave of US pressure led to Bobadilla's opening goal after just seven minutes before Balogun -- who grew up in London and represented England youth teams before pledging allegiance to the United States -- bagged his brace.

The only blemish on the US performance was the conceding of a Paraguay goal from Brazil-born Mauricio in the 73rd minute after hesitancy in the hosts' defence. Canada grab first point - In Friday's other game, co-hosts Canada earned the first World Cup point in its history when Cyle Larin grabbed a second-half equaliser in Toronto to make it 1-1 after Bosnia-Herzegovina had taken the lead with a close-range header from Jovo Lukic.

"It was special for me. I was ready to come and help the team. I thought the goals would come. I score when Canada needs me, and always have done," Larin said. Canadian film stars Ryan Reynolds and Mike Myers were in the packed crowd to watch the first-ever World Cup match on Canadian soil. But former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau skipped the game in favour of the USA opener in Los Angeles -- where his girlfriend Katy Perry was performing. Partey blocked by Canada -

Off the pitch, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, who is facing trial in Britain on rape charges, has been denied a visa to enter Canada. FIFA said Partey "will be unable to travel from Ghana's team base camp in Boston, USA, to Canada for their first match against Panama on Wednesday, 17 June, as his visa application has been refused by the Canadian government." The 32-year-old will be eligible to play in Ghana's subsequent Group L games against England and Croatia, both taking place in the United States.

Trump's immigration policies have created problems for nationals from certain countries. Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States despite having a valid visa. And US authorities have refused visas to some members of the Iran team's support staff as well as Senegalese and Ivory Coast fans. Friday's games in Los Angeles and Toronto were the precursor to a packed slate of World Cup fixtures on Saturday, with eight teams in action.

Five-time world champions Brazil will launch their bid for a sixth title with a testing game against Morocco in East Rutherford in Group C while Scotland make their long-awaited return to World Cup football against Haiti. Australia will take on Turkey in Vancouver while Qatar play Switzerland in Santa Clara, California. The World Cup, expanded to 48 teams, will culminate in the final in New Jersey on July 19.

Major (retd) Sheikh Jihaduzzaman Jihad was present there as the special guest in the opening ceremony.  Speaking as the chief guest in the opening ceremony, the chief guest said, sports not only ensure physical fitness, it also plays an important role in developing discipline, brotherhood and leadership qualities.  A large number of spectators and local sports enthusiasts were present at the event and enjoyed the match. 

Pressed by a journalist at his post-game conference about the performance of US talisman Christian Pulisic, Pochettino refused to budge. "You push me to talk about names, and it's about the team, it's a collective performance. Of course, he was amazing," said the coach. He then went on to name nearly every member of the US lineup, praising each as also "amazing." Pochettino was also effusive in his praise for the 70,000 crowd in Los Angeles. Despite some media reports suggesting that the US public is not as invested in the tournament as other World Cup hosts -- particularly with the ongoing NBA Finals drawing eyeballs away from the soccer -- the atmosphere was raucous in the Los Angeles Stadium.

"On behalf of the whole team, massive thank you to the fans, because the energy that they relate to the team was amazing, and we can do amazing things with if the fans are in this way," said Pochettino. The US is now in a strong position to progress from Group D, which also contains next Friday's opposition Australia, and Turkey.

"We are so happy, but this is only the start," said Pochettino. "It's still two games to play. We need to enjoy this start to the tournament, but know that we need to keep going and try to improve and try to do better in the next game, because all the games are very competitive."

Bangladesh registered a commanding 39-25 win over Nepal in the Under-18 category, with the Quantum Cosmo School and College student playing a key role by scoring seven goals. Despite receiving individual recognition, Jebe remained focused on the team's success rather than personal achievements. "I would give myself 5 out of 10 for my performance. To be honest, I played for the team and for Bangladesh. I never play for myself. Today, I wanted someone else to win the award," he said after the match.

Reflecting on Bangladesh's narrow defeat to India, Jebe admitted the loss was particularly painful. "Losing that match felt really bad because the margin was only four goals. We could have closed that gap and won the game if we had performed a little better," he said. Looking ahead to the final group match, Jebe described Afghanistan as a strong opponent and stressed the importance of maintaining the same level of intensity shown against India and Nepal.

"Afghanistan is a strong team. I want us to play against them the same way we played against India and the way we played today. If we can maintain that level of performance, we'll have a good chance of achieving a positive result," he added. Bangladesh will now take on Afghanistan in their final match of the tournament as they seek to finish their campaign on a high note.

Soumya endorsed that mindset, saying Bangladesh must continue looking ahead if they want to become a major force in world cricket. "When a World Cup ends, you have to start thinking about the next one and how to perform better. What Mustafizur said is absolutely right," Soumya said. "If you want to become a big team, you have to do these things. If you don't perform in ICC events or major tournaments, it doesn't count. We want to become a team that can achieve something in any big tournament and take Bangladesh cricket to a much higher level."

At the same time, Soumya acknowledged that a 3-0 whitewash of Australia would rank among the greatest achievements in Bangladesh's ODI history as the Tigers prepare for the third and final match of the series. Bangladesh had waited 21 years for only their second ODI victory over Australia following the famous Cardiff upset in 2005. That drought ended in the opening match of the ongoing series before the hosts secured a maiden ODI series victory against Australia with a five-wicket win in the second game. Now Bangladesh stand on the verge of another landmark achievement - their first-ever ODI series whitewash of Australia. "It will be very big.

When we won the series, it was a very big achievement. We should have celebrated this in a bigger way. If we can win 3-0, it will be an even bigger achievement for us," Soumya said. "We all have the same goal, which is to play positive cricket." Bangladesh have previously whitewashed Kenya, Ireland, New Zealand, Pakistan, West Indies and Zimbabwe in ODI bilateral series but have never managed the feat against Australia. Before this series, they had not won a single match in either of the two previous bilateral ODI series against the five-time world champions.

A major reason behind Bangladesh's recent success has been the emergence of a potent pace-bowling unit led by Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur and rising fast bowler Nahid Rana. Mustafizur was named Player of the Match in the second ODI after combining with Taskin to leave Australia reeling at 3 for no score early in their innings. Soumya described the current pace attack as one of the strongest Bangladesh have ever assembled. "We have one of the best pace bowling departments I have ever seen. It doesn't matter which condition or country we play in. Any team playing against us will definitely think about our pace attack," he said. "Even when we play overseas, opponents will have to consider whether they should prepare fast-bowling-friendly wickets. We are going through a very good period in pace bowling right now."

The 31-year-old Mahedi has played 11 ODIs for Bangladesh with his last appearance being against the same opposition in November 2023 during the ICC Cricket World Cup in India. His inclusion came after captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz was hospitalized following being hit on his head by a bouncer of Australian pacer Nathan Ellis in the second ODI.

He was released from the hospital yesterday and rejoined the team. BCB, however, confirmed that Miraz is in good health but will undergo further assessment tomorrow to determine his fitness for the third game. Squad: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (Vice Captain), Tawhid Hridoy, Litto Das, Mosaddek Hossain Saikot, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana and Mahedi Hasan.

This was Bangladesh's second victory in three matches in the tournament. Bangladesh will face Afghanistan in its final match of the round-robin league scheduled for tomorrow (Sunday) at 1 p.m.

Jebe Dai Bom was instrumental in Bangladesh's win over Nepal. He shared top-scoring honors with David Bom, with both players scoring seven goals apiece in the match.

Bangladesh maintained its dominance throughout the match. 
However, Jebe Dai Bom, who scored 18 goals against India in the previous game, was unable to score as freely in this match and did not meet the high expectations set by his earlier performance.

On both occasions, Bangladesh thoroughly dominated the cricketing powerhouse Australia, sending the fans into delirium. The manner in which they won those games instilled a belief that a series-sweep is not just a mere imagination rather it's a realistic goal if they can replicate the performances. Standin on the brink of the history opener Soumya Sarkar has urged the team management to field its strongest possible XI in the final ODI against, saying the Bangladesh should focus on completing a historic whitewash rather than testing new combinations.

"It is a matter for the management, but if you ask me, I would say it is better not to test. We are playing against a very big team. Winning 3-0 would be a huge achievement. So only the best XI should be played," he said. However, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who was hit on his head by a bouncer of Australian pacer Nathan Ellis in the second game still looks uncertain despite recovering fast. "Miraz has joined the team. The doctors are still monitoring him. There is time until tomorrow. He is with the team and doing well," he said. Considering Miraz's condition, Bangladesh added offspinner Mahedi Hasan into the squad. However, Soumya believes Bangladesh's landmark series triumph deserved greater recognition and celebration. "The series we won should have been celebrated in a bigger way because it is a major achievement. I don't know how much we celebrated it, but it should have been done more," Soumya remarked. Looking ahead to the final match, he said a whitewash would elevate the accomplishment even further. "A 3-0 victory would definitely be even bigger.

That will be our goal. We will play positive cricket, and the team that performs well in all three departments will win," he added. The two sides so far met 24 times in ODI format, with Bangladesh winning three. Bangladesh's success against Australia also marked their 20th bilateral ODI series triumph. England remain the only major side against whom Bangladesh have yet to win an ODI bilateral series. Should Bangladesh complete the sweep, it would become the country's 15th ODI bilateral series whitewash and one of the most memorable achievements in its cricket history. Squads: Bangladesh: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Liton Das, Musaddek Hossain Saikat, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana and Mahedi Hasan Australia: Josh Inglis, Oliver Peake, Cooper Connolly, Liam Scott, Tanveer Sangha, Nathan Ellis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Riley Meredith, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa, Billy Stanlake, Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Mitchell Marsh and Marnus Labuschagne.

Aguirre though revealed his team had had to set aside some opening day nerves to achieve the result. "When you're starting out the World Cup, of course your legs will shake," Aguirre said. "Never in 25 years had anyone had any cramps but three of them had cramps today. "We were in awe when we saw the stadium and they got a little bit of stage fright. But we never suffered. We could have scored four and it would have been completely different." The final minutes of Thursday's game saw some sections of the restless home crowd boo the World Cup co-hosts.

Aguirre said while he hadn't heard the catcalls, the crowd were entitled to vent. "I didn't hear boos. But it could have been a 4-0 game. 2-0, is not so much. But we got three points, which is amazing," Aguirre said. "If someone is booing, it's the Mexico players' obligation to make sure that doesn't happen again. But it didn't have an impact on us." Mexico now look ahead to games against South Korea and the Czech Republic -- but Aguirre snuffed out any suggestion that his team were targeting finishing first in their group.

"We're zero obsessed to win the group," he said. "Today we're just focused on Korea. It's not relevant. It's not our priority. Our priority is to focus on Korea, to keep going step by step and prepare for the future." South Africa coach Hugo Broos meanwhile had no complaint with the red card that saw Sphephelo Sithole dismissed after half-time, but took issue with the dismissal of substitute Themba Zwane late in the game. "The first red card, I don't think we have to say something about it but the second red card I think the Mexican player blocked my player, the referee decides something else," he said. "So it is a pity that we have to finish this game with nine players.

"I think my team played a good game, some moments in the game Mexico even desperate, they didn't know how to find the spaces. But we must try and be better in the next game when we have the ball."

The 29-year-old struck in the ninth minute, his powerful shot going between the legs of the South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to send the 80,000 spectators wild. It was the earliest first goal at a World Cup since 2006, when Philipp Lahm netted for Germany against Costa Rica after six minutes

The former US international had been tipped as a possible head coach for his home country after he was sacked by Leeds United in 2023. But he ended up north of the border, with a chance to secure Canada's first ever World Cup victory. Canada qualified for two previous World Cups, 1986 and 2022, but lost all six of its matches. Hopes are higher this year with a roster that includes several players competing in top European leagues.

But Marsch said Canada's top player, Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies, remains unavailable for the Bosnia match because of a hamstring issue. "We did an MRI with him yesterday. It showed very positive signs that he's healing incredibly well," Marsch said, confirming Davies "will not be available tomorrow." Stephen Eustaquio will captain the home side in the first ever World Cup match in Canada. "It's a dream come true," said Eustaquio, who plays for Los Angeles FC of the MLS. Marsch was asked about nerves within his squad, which is facing unprecedented expectations to advance out of the group stage, but said the environment has been "pretty normal."

"There wasn't really a need for big mental and psychological messages. We're all aware of the World Cup. We're all aware of it being at home. We're all excited," Marsch said. Bosnia-Herzegovina beat Italy to qualify for its second World Cup, and coach Sergej Barbarez said his side had plenty of experience playing higher-ranked countries. "We are, of course, sort of an underdog here," Barbarez said, adding: "the road (to the tournament) was by no means easy.

But he noted that his team's ability to surprise rivals has limits. "I love this game between David and Goliath, but the world gets to know you after a while." 

Of the 26 members of "Team Melli," only a dozen players were present, with star striker Mehdi Taremi among those who did not show. Dressed in green jerseys, the players did some light jogging on the training pitch of the Xolos, Tijuana's local club. They then performed stretching and core-strengthening exercises on foam mats. Iran is scheduled to play its first match on Monday in Los Angeles against New Zealand.

A team official confirmed to AFP that the squad is set to enter the United States on Sunday and spend the night there ahead of the match. Last week, Iran's ambassador to Mexico told journalists the squad would only be allowed into the US on the day of their games and would have to leave straight afterwards. Iran's participation in the tournament, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, comes three months after the US and Israel launched attacks on the country of around 93 million people, setting off hostilities that saw a large swathe of the Middle East drawn in, and the global economy shaken.

Thursday's open practice came as US President Donald Trump announced what he said was a "great settlement" to end the war with Iran, saying he expected a deal to be signed in Europe as soon as this weekend.

Three players were sent off -- two from South Africa and one from Mexico -- in front of a capacity crowd of 80,000 spectators. South Africa had Sphephelo Sithole dismissed for denying a goalscoring opportunity before Themba Zwane was shown a red card for a slap. Mexico's Cesar Montes was also sent off, for a late foul. Mexico coach Javier Aguirre revealed his players had overcome a serious case of first-day nerves.

"When you're starting out the World Cup, of course your legs will shake," Aguirre said. "Never in 25 years had anyone had any cramps but three of them had cramps today. "We were in awe when we saw the stadium and they got a little bit of stage fright. But we never suffered." Mexico's victory launched a 48-team tournament also hosted by the United States and Canada that will last nearly six weeks, culminating in the final in New Jersey on July 19. Before kickoff, Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy performed "Dai Dai", the official song of the tournament and Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli rounded off the opening ceremony.

There was a festive atmosphere inside the stadium, but outside dozens of protesters clashed with police. Groups of teachers, relatives of Mexicans who have gone missing, and student activists gathered outside the stadium amid a heavy police presence. Some protesters breached barriers and traded blows with officers guarding the stadium's perimeter moments after Mexico scored their opening goal.

Tens of thousands of fans crammed into a fan zone in central Mexico City to watch the game, which was also enthusiastically followed by a large crowd of fans from Los Angeles' Mexican community on giant screens at the Coliseum. South Korea and the Czech Republic play the second game of the opening day later in Guadalajara. The start of the action on the pitch will come as a welcome relief to football's world governing body FIFA, which has faced stinging criticism over the eye-watering costs of tickets.

In addition, Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States. On the eve of the tournament, FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the organization and brushed off criticism over visa issues. Infantino insisted that tickets -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism. He added: "Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average."

Infantino also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry after arriving in Miami, suggesting reporters should "chill, relax". US authorities said he was refused entry because he was "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations". On Thursday, European football's governing body UEFA announced that Artan had been selected to referee its European Super Cup, between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa in August. Infantino also portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization, saying "I don't know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances -- which we could not influence -- Iran could come and play," he said.

The Iran team took to the training pitch in front of journalists Thursday at their base camp in Mexico. Meanwhile, the World Cup squad from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has been hit by an outbreak of Ebola, was allowed to enter the United States. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who plays in England for West Ham, said after coming through immigration at Houston airport after a flight from Paris that the team had faced "no problems" and had left the airport an hour after touching down.

US authorities had insisted the squad serve a 21-day quarantine period before entering US soil. Spain, France and England are the favourites to win the World Cup, while reigning champions Argentina will look to their 38-year-old talisman Lionel Messi to drive them to the final. 

The former Tottenham star blasted one effort over the bar before making a driving run to his left and evading two Czech defenders only to shoot wide. An entertaining second half began with the Czechs scoring against the run of play as Ladislav Krejci rose at the front post to power a header past Korean goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu. Hwang In-beom finally made the Korean pressure pay with a clever equalizer as he faked a shot and then caressed the ball over Czech 'keeper Matek Kovar on 67 minutes.

The Czechs had a goal disallowed before Hwang added to his goal with an assist, crossing from the right for Oh to slot home. When the final whistle sounded after a frantic end to the game, Son sank to the turf in joy. South Korea face co-hosts Mexico, who beat South Africa 2-0 in the tournament's opening Group A game earlier Thursday, on June 18. The Czechs play the South Africans in Atlanta on the same day.

"We adapted to the situation," said Desabre. "We had to focus, as we have had to adapt often. "That is what we did. We worked well, we played two tough friendlies and here we are. Now, it is another step for us." DR Congo -- who have qualified for their first World Cup since they featured in the 1974 edition as Zaire -- cancelled a planned pre-World Cup training camp at home after the country was hit by the Ebola outbreak last month and were based in Belgium instead.

Desabre, 49, said the people back home had had to be patient to see the team appear at another World Cup. "It has been a while since the people have seen the team at the World Cup," said the Frenchman. "We already had the honour of qualifying for the finals. Now, it is up to us to put up a good showing in this tournament." They are to be based in Houston during the competition, where they will play their first Group K match on June 17 against Portugal. DR Congo are then scheduled to head to Guadalajara in Mexico to face Colombia on June 23 before playing Uzbekistan in Atlanta on June 28.

"For me, successful is to win. Is to win tomorrow. And win after," the former Tottenham coach said on Thursday. "If we don't arrive to the final and we don't win the World Cup, to talk about 'successful'? I don't know." A talented crop of US players led by Christian Pulisic need to prove themselves against the world's best, while dealing with the pressures of playing in front of their own fans.

Pulisic insisted the squad around him is "able to compete with anyone." "We want to be a real force in this tournament," he told AFP. "We've got three really good games to show everyone what we're all about." Pochettino, an Argentine, has insisted his team need to be equal to the streetwise South Americans. "We know we have to be ready to battle. It's not about just playing beautiful football," said Pulisic. US Secretary of State Mario Rubio will attend the opening match. President Donald Trump has said he would be present at other games in the tournament, without specifying which.

The game in Los Angeles will be preceded by a Hollywood-style opening ceremony featuring Katy Perry and a host of music stars. In Friday's other game, co-hosts Canada go in search of the first World Cup win in their history as they tackle Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto. Canada must do without their star player Alphonso Davies, who is still recovering from a hamstring issue. The World Cup kicked off in dramatic fashion in Mexico City on Thursday where Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy got the packed 80,000 crowd at the Estadio Azteca on their feet.

Co-hosts Mexico beat South Africa 2-0 in a game that featured three red cards. Julian Quinones scored the opening goal of the tournament after nine minutes and 35-year-old striker Raul Jimenez headed in Mexico's second at the Azteca, which became the first stadium in the world to host games at three World Cups. There was a festive atmosphere inside the stadium, but outside dozens of protesters clashed with police in chaotic scenes.

Groups of teachers, relatives of Mexicans who have gone missing, and student activists gathered outside the stadium. Some protesters broke through barriers and traded blows with police officers guarding the stadium's perimeter moments after Mexico scored their opening goal. Mexico's victory launched a 48-team tournament that will culminate in the final in New Jersey on July 19. South Korea got their World Cup campaign off to a winning start by beating the Czech Republic 2-1 in the opening day's second game.

Until the 80th-minute mark, it seemed that the Czechs would punish the Koreans' wastefulness in front of goal, but substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu notched the decisive goal in a Guadalajara stadium that was far from full. The start of the action on the pitch will have come as a welcome relief to football's world governing body FIFA, which has faced stinging criticism over the eye-watering cost of tickets. In addition, Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States,

Infantino portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization, claiming he did not know if any other body could have pulled it off. Four days after they arrived at their base camp in Mexico, the Iran players finally allowed reporters to watch them train Thursday. They face New Zealand in Los Angeles in their first game Monday.

"From the moment I took over, I have tried to factor in the long-term interests of the Socceroos while ensuring that we achieve the short-term results, which in the first instance was qualifying for the World Cup." The Asian Cup is due to be held in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5. "Securing Tony's contract extension on the eve of the World Cup is a fantastic outcome," said Football Australia chief Martin Kugeler.

"While the immediate focus is on the World Cup, this extension provides clarity and enables Football Australia to plan with absolute confidence for the period following the tournament, leading into the Asian Cup." Australia, who are at their sixth successive World Cup, are also grouped with co-hosts the United States and Paraguay.

Broos is bracing for more of the same on Thursday in a game that he regards as pivotal to South Africa's chances of advancing beyond the group stage. "There will be a big crowd and there will not be so much South African support," Broos said. "So that is a big help for them (Mexico). "They will have 85,000 Mexicans shouting and singing. But we have to focus on our game. And if we can do that, if we are not too influenced by the noise of 85,000 Mexicans, then we can have a good game." Broos believes Mexico are the team to beat in Group A.

"I think they've won nearly all of their last 10 games," Broos said of "El Tri". "So they'll be a team with confidence...they're the best team in the group. "So tomorrow it will be a very tough game. We need to be at our best level, but I can assure you our team is ready to fight for every metre and every ball." Broos meanwhile admits he is no fan of the expanded 48-team World Cup, citing the gruelling travel schedule his team faces that includes games in Atlanta and Monterrey.

"It's a bit too big when you play with 48 countries," he said. "Forty years ago it was a World Cup in Mexico, but now it is modern times, and we have to adapt. "It's more exhausting than the previous World Cup, when you are with less countries but we have to accept it." Mexico have played in seven World Cup opening matches but have never won one -- a run that coach Javier Aguirre said he was determined to put right.

"We have to break the statistic," Aguirre said at his pre-match press conference. "I didn't know that fact; I'm going to share it with the players. It will be another source of motivation." On Thursday, Aguirre will relive the experience of playing a World Cup on home soil 40 years after doing so as a player in 1986. "Since I arrived 22 months ago, I have had no greater emotion than experiencing a World Cup at home again," said the 67-year-old coach.

Infantino and FIFA have come in for stinging criticism over the eye-watering costs of World Cup tickets while Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States. Infantino insisted that tickets to the tournament -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism.

"Let me just say that our entry price, which is 60 dollars, is the lowest entry price of any of the American sports in the play-off phases," Infantino said. "Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average." Infantino also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami last Saturday following security concerns raised by US immigration authorities.

FIFA has since confirmed Artan, who the US State Department later said had "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations," will play no part in the tournament. "It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," Infantino said. "We don't control everything... Sometimes it's good to chill, relax, we work on everything, we try to solve everything.

"Sometimes to immediately start screaming and shouting has the opposite effect of finding a solution." The FIFA leader also portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization. "People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup," Trump said. "There are challenges, it's not easy, but I don't know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances -- which we could not influence -- Iran could come and play."

Infantino's close relationship with US President Trump has also come under scrutiny in the build-up to the tournament. But Infantino maintained Trump had played a critical role in World Cup preparations. "Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been, simple as that, impossible to organise a World Cup in the United States," Infantino said of Trump. In Washington on Wednesday, Trump confirmed he plans to attend some World Cup matches, without providing details.

"I spoke to Gianni this morning... he said there's never been anything close" to the success of the coming tournament, the US leader said. Meanwhile, concerns were rising that Thursday's opener between hosts Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City could be disrupted by social unrest.

Protesters Tuesday blocked an avenue leading to the Estadio Azteca although lines of police prevented the demonstrators from reaching the stadium. Thousands took part in the demonstration following a week of action that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called a "provocation." Sheinbaum insisted Wednesday that "everything is under control" for the curtainraiser. The spectre of Mother Nature disrupting the tournament also reared up on Wednesday, with England's final World Cup warm-up game against Costa Rica delayed after a thunderstorm hit Orlando, Florida.

Torrential rain and lightning flashes forced the kick-off to be delayed, echoing the problems that marred last year's Club World Cup, where several games were disrupted by weather. When the action started, England eased to a 3-0 win with new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon starring with a goal and an assist, making his case for a starting spot for his side's World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17. Portugal wrapped up their preparations by beating Nigeria 2-1, with goals from Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao making up for an off night for Cristiano Ronaldo.

On the sidelines of the match, Rubio will meet with Paraguayan President Santiago Pena "to advance the US-Paraguay strategic partnership spanning regional security, trade and investment, and emerging technology," Piggott added. The United States is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico, with the first match kicking off Thursday in Mexico City. President Donald Trump said Wednesday he plans to attend the World Cup, but did not specify which match or matches.

FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has said he expects Trump to present the trophy to the winning team at the final on July 19 just outside New York City, as he did during last year's Club World Cup.

He also featured in the Barcelona teams that beat Ancelotti's Real in the finals of the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup. "What he has achieved in football is admirable, not just to those who worked with him but also his opponents," Raphinha told reporters Wednesday at the Brazil team's World Cup base in New Jersey. "It was always very difficult coming up against him, but I was lucky to come out smiling a lot of the time.

"Now I hope to do for him all the things I did against him. To help get good results for him and for the team, because they really deserve it." Ancelotti is leading Brazil as they attempt to end a 24-year wait to win a record-extending sixth World Cup at the tournament in North America. The former AC Milan and Chelsea coach celebrated his 67th birthday on Wednesday, three days before the Selecao begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco in Group C at the MetLife Stadium, just outside New York City.

Brazil are set to go into that game without Neymar, who was called up for the tournament despite not being capped since 2023 because of injuries and is now set to miss Saturday's match due to a calf problem. Raphinha may need to step up in Neymar's absence, four years after his first World Cup in which he appeared in every game but failed to score as the Selecao went out to Croatia on penalties in the quarter-finals in Qatar.

"I think I felt more pressure in 2022, because I was more immature. I was quite new to the national team and had just arrived at Barcelona," said the former Leeds United winger. "I didn't feel completely settled in the Brazil squad. I feel much more ready now." He is coming off a season in which he scored 21 goals and set up eight more in all competitions as Barcelona won La Liga.

But he missed five of Brazil's six friendly games between October and March due to injuries. He and Vinicius Junior, who played under Ancelotti in Madrid, were the only two Brazilians ranked in the top 30 in last year's Ballon d'Or and carry much of the attacking responsibility for their country going into the World Cup. "We are the only nation to have won five World Cups. You can't play in a tournament like this if you are not ready to handle the pressure," he said.

"We are very confident. We have had years of frustration, because we had teams that were capable of winning and did not. And none of us want more frustration." Brazil will also play Haiti and Scotland in the group stage.

"Today's game against Costa Rica has been delayed due to weather conditions in Orlando," the English Football Association said in a statement. "Following a pitch inspection at the stadium, today's match against Costa Rica will now kick off at 5pm ET - subject to there being no further lightning strikes in the area." Delays were prominent feature of the Club World Cup in the United States 12 months ago and could have a major impact on the largest ever World Cup, which begins on Thursday.

England chose to have two friendlies in Florida to acclimatise to the searing heat they will face once the tournament gets underway. The Three Lions will then travel to their base camp in Kansas City. Considered among the favourites despite not winning a major tournament for 60 years, England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17. Thomas Tuchel's side also face Ghana and Panama in Group L.

OG Anunoby's tip-in basket with 1.2 seconds left sealed the thrilling win to give the Knicks a 3-1 stranglehold on the best-of-seven championship series, which shifts back to San Antonio for game five on Saturday.

He joked that there are grievances within his community -- men who pray together but do not get along -- but when Bosnia's victory was secured, those rivalries evaporated. "That day everybody was hugging. I even showed some of them, I showed the picture, 'Oh my God, look who you are hugging here.'" Few had anticipated the first-ever World Cup in Canada would feature the home side against Bosnia-Herzegovina. For Toronto's huge, well-established Italian community, the 2026 World Cup looked set to offer a battle of loyalties.

Over decades, Italian-Canadians have blared horns and partied through Toronto's streets after World Cup and Euro successes. For this World Cup, Canada's largest city was poised for a historic and divisive clash. Bars in Toronto's Little Italy were packed for the March qualifier and, when the Azzurri lost, the devastation was palpable. "I was so excited thinking about watching Italy playing here in Canada," Alessandro Aureli told the Canadian Press after the match. "I'm going to go home and cry for the rest of the day."

But sadness for the Italian community created an opening for Toronto's several thousand Bosnians -- a chance to reaffirm a shared identity that Dzumhur concedes has faded over the years. People used to be "more dedicated to the community," he said. "These days, I feel that now it has a little bit whittled down," he added, voicing hope that the tournament would offer a rare opportunity for everyone to gather as Bosnians.

Toronto's Bosnian community began organizing in the 1980s, but the conflict in the former Yugoslavia through the 1990s marked a turning point. As refugees began arriving, institutions were set up to welcome them, and the mosque became a focal point for community life. The mosque's former library has been converted to a youth activity room, and a big screen was brought in for the World Cup qualifiers. As people crammed in for the Italy match, Dzumhur said he believed victory was possible. "They had issues," he said of the Italian side. "But still, Italy is Italy...yet we've come out on top."

Mirza Durak, a Bosnian-born Canadian, travelled to Zenica for the Italy match. He's the president of Toronto's Bosnian Cultural Association and said that for his national team "to come to Toronto, in our neighborhood, it's a dream come true." He does not intend to let the moment pass.

He got tickets to Friday's match and has organized a series of events to celebrate Bosnia-Herzegovina's presence in Toronto, including a party before the match, a march to the stadium on match day, and an after-party. Thousands of Bosnians from across North America, and some from Europe, are converging on the city, he said. "We wanted to show Toronto a bit of a different culture, how usually European soccer fans do this," Durak said. "It's going to be really cool to see for Canadians."

"The final design presented by Saeta was intended as a tribute to the men and women who contribute every day to Haiti's future and was not intended as a political statement," Saeta said in a statement posted on Instagram. "During the review process, FIFA determined that certain visual elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations and ultimately requested modifications to the design. "While this interpretation differed from our intention, Saeta respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA."

Haiti begin their first World Cup campaign in 52 years against Scotland in Boston on Saturday. The Caribbean minnows, ranked 83rd in the world, then face the might of five-time winners Brazil and African champions Morocco in Group C. Haiti's qualification is one of the most inspiring tales of the tournament.

Despite a backdrop of domestic chaos, with the impoverished nation grappling with gang violence that meant they were unable to play home qualifiers in the country, they have reached just a second World Cup in their history. "We know people might have a bad image of our country, that it has lots of problems, but this will do the country, the people, my family so much good," star midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde told AFP.

Speaking in Mexico City on Wednesday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino launched a spirited defense of the organization of the tournament and brushed off criticism over visa issues. Infantino insisted that tickets -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism. "Let me just say that our entry price, which is 60 dollars, is the lowest entry price of any of the American sports in the play-off phases," Infantino said.

"Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average." Infantino also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami last Saturday following security concerns raised by US immigration authorities. FIFA has since confirmed Artan, who the US State Department said had "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations," will play no part in the tournament.

"It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," Infantino said. "We don't control everything... Sometimes it's good to chill, relax, we work on everything, we try to solve everything. "Sometimes to immediately start screaming and shouting has the opposite effect of finding a solution." The FIFA leader also portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization.

"People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup," Infantino said. "There are challenges, it's not easy, but I don't know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances -- which we could not influence -- Iran could come and play." Infantino's close relationship with US President Trump has also come under scrutiny but the FIFA chief maintained that without Trump, there would not have been a World Cup in the United States. "Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been, simple as that, impossible to organize a World Cup in the United States," Infantino said of Trump.

Trump confirmed on Wednesday he plans to attend some World Cup matches, without providing details. "I spoke to Gianni this morning... he said there's never been anything close" to the success of the coming tournament, the US leader said. South Africa coach Hugo Broos warned his players they will have to block out a wall of sound during the curtainraiser in the Estadio Azteca, a legendary venue that hosted the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals.

"They will have 85,000 Mexicans shouting and singing. But we have to focus on our game. And if we can do that... then we can have a good game," the Belgian said. Mexico have never won the opening game of a World Cup despite appearing in one seven times and coach Javier Aguirre said he was determined to put that right.

"We have to break the statistic," Aguirre said. "I'm going to share (that fact) with the players. It will be another source of motivation." South Korea and the Czech Republic play the second game of the opening day, in Guadalajara. Spain, France and England are the bookmakers' favourites while reigning champions Argentina will look to their 38-year-old talisman Lionel Messi to drive them to the final.

Williams is one of tennis' all-time greats with 23 Grand Slam singles titles to her credit. The 44-year-old American last played at the 2022 US Open when she said she was "evolving away from tennis". Williams' return is fuelled by a desire for her two young daughters with husband Alexis Ohanian to see her in a competitive environment before she finally hangs up her racquet for good. "It's really about the kids seeing me play," Williams told reporters at Queen's on Sunday. "Olympia is a little bit older, Adira is very young. It's components like that."

After competing at Queen's, Williams will take part in the doubles at the Berlin Open from June 15-21. In her first press conference since announcing her return, Williams played down suggestions she would extend her return to singles competition. But, with Wimbledon looming later in June, she did not completely rule out the possibility of featuring at a tournament she has won seven times.

"For singles, I can't say 'yeah' and I can't say 'no'," explained Williams. "Right now, no. I feel like I probably need to train a little bit more if I want to play singles. "We will see if I get there and if not, it is not my journey right now." 

"I think with all the respect of what I did last year, I was pretty sure to get a wild card or I was hoping to get a wildcard," Maria told reporters having beaten Briton Lily Miyazaki and Uzkbek Kamilla Rakhimova to reach the first round. "It was not, like, five years ago, it was last year and especially this tournament and to come back like a champion, I hoped and I thought I would get a wildcard. "I was surprised when I got the message from (tournament director) Laura Robson saying all the wild cards would go to the British players, which I understand of course but you know as a champion, it's tough for me (to accept)."

Maria added her two daughters were a particular inspiration before she plays Greek player Maria Sakkari in the opening round on Tuesday. "Yesterday I wanted to win also for my girls to stay as long as possible because they really love to be here and they love the tournament," she said. "A lot of members here (Queen's) came to me and said, 'really we don't understand why you didn't get the wildcard', so it was super nice," she added. On court, Romania's Jaqueline Cristian defeated Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen 6-4, 7-6 (4), as the Chinese player suffered an early exit following her run to last year's semi-finals at Queen's.

"In consultation with the medical staff, it has therefore been decided that Timber will leave the national team's pre-camp in New York after the game against Uzbekistan," the KNVB said. "Ronald Koeman has called up Lutsharel Geertruida as Timber's replacement," it added. Koeman's side begin their campaign against Japan on Sunday before facing Sweden and Tunisia in Group F.

"Nobody else has five stars on their chest. We have great players who play for top teams, like Vini and Raphinha. We need to give our players the respect they deserve," Newcastle United midfielder Guimaraes told reporters at the Brazil team's base in New Jersey. Carlo Ancelotti's side, who finished fifth in the 10-team South American qualifying group, 10 points behind first-placed Argentina, begin their World Cup bid against Morocco on Saturday at the MetLife Stadium just outside New York City.

They completed preparations for the tournament with back-to-back friendly wins, hammering Panama 6-2 in Rio de Janeiro and then defeating Egypt 2-1 in Cleveland, Ohio on Saturday. "We couldn't be feeling better. We won and played well in the two friendly matches. We have another few days to work on things but we feel ready," said Guimaraes, who scored his team's opener against Egypt. "Once the World Cup begins, everyone will forget what has happened before. Hopefully we can start with a victory, and that will give us something to build on."

Brazil will also play Haiti and Scotland in Group C and are currently waiting to see if Neymar will be able to play any part in their group games. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward, now 34, is currently playing for Santos in his homeland and has not been capped by his country since 2023. Despite that, Ancelotti took a gamble by including Neymar in his squad, and he has since been hit by a calf problem.

Brazil have already been forced to make a change to their squad, with Roma full-back Wesley being ruled out of the tournament at the weekend due to a thigh injury. He has been replaced by Ederson, the 26-year-old midfielder with Atalanta in Italy who is expected to join Manchester United after the World Cup. "Playing at a World Cup is the apex of our careers as footballers. We hope Wesley recovers quickly," said Guimaraes.

An Israeli police spokesperson told AFP that "the court has ordered that the suspect remain under house arrest," and stressed that "this ruling does not indicate or determine the outcome of any future legal proceedings." Police had said last week that Halawani was arrested along with an 18-year-old man in relation to an incident in Jerusalem in which objects were allegedly thrown from a balcony at demonstrators marching on a street below. "The investigation remains ongoing, and evidentiary material continues to be collected and assessed," police told AFP.

The Palestinian Football Association celebrated Halawani's release in a statement late Sunday. "Rand Halawani breathes freedom," the association said in a social media post, accompanied by an image showing her wearing the Palestinian national team's red kit. The Palestinian Prisoners Club, the main rights group for Palestinian prisoners, said Monday that that the number of women in Israeli prisons and detention camps has risen to around 95. The number of Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons stands at around 9,500, according to figures released by the organisation last week.

Bournemouth will play in a major European competition for the first time in their history next season when they take part in the Europa League under new head coach Marco Rose after finishing sixth in the Premier League during the reign of his predecessor, Andoni Iraola. "It's with a great amount of gratitude that I return in such a successful era," Ritchie told Bournemouth's website. "I look forward to working alongside Marco and his technical staff, supporting them in every way possible as we aim to create even more history together."

Bournemouth announced in April that German manager Rose would succeed Iraola, shortly after the Spaniard revealed his intention to leave the south coast club at the end of the 2025/26 season. Iraola was appointed manager of English giants Liverpool last week after the Reds sacked Arne Slot following a woeful defence of their Premier League title.

A former student of Dhaka University, Sheikh Ruhul Amin is a resident of village Baradia in Rampal upazila. He is the eldest son of former teacher Alhaj Mohammad Ali. He is also the cousin of State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam. Along with business activities, he has been involved in various social and public welfare activities for a long time.

According to local sources, he has been regularly assisting in the development of mosques, madrasas and religious-social institutions in different parts of the country, including Rampal. Leaders of various political, social and professional organizations have congratulated him in separate statements, welcoming his appointment to this important position in the cricket arena of Bangladesh.

In their congratulatory messages, they expressed hope that Sheikh Ruhul Amin's experience, leadership qualities and organizational skills will play an important role in the development of cricket in the country and further enriching Bangladeshi cricket in the international arena. Among the congratulators are Rampal Upazila Development Forum convener former district judge Sheikh Jalal Uddin, senior convener former headmaster freedom fighter Sheikh Sultan Ahmed, joint convener Rampal Government College principal A. Hannan, former headmaster Sheikh A. Mannan, Major (Retd.) Mallik Moniruzzaman and member secretary M. A. Sabur Rana.

In addition, Rampal Press Club convener Motahar Hossain Mallik, member secretary Md. Mehedi Hasan, members Md. Rizaul Islam, A. H. Nantu, Sujan Majumder, Md. Tariqul Islam, Molla Hafizur Rahman, Md. Kabir Akbar Pintu, Laila Sultana and Murshida Parvin, along with the leaders of the organization, also congratulated him. 

According to the WHO, there have been more than 500 confirmed cases, including dozens of deaths, recorded in the DRC and neighbouring Uganda. Despite the concerns, Congolese football officials insist that none of the players called up for the national team are based in the country. The squad has been training in Marbella, southern Spain in recent days and set off on Monday for Orleans in central France.

Chile published a video on social media of its players, saying that they had already arrived in Paris. DR Congo recently drew 0-0 with Denmark in Belgium, where a large ethnic Congolese support was visible in the 23,000-strong crowd. Congo's preparations for the upcoming World Cup have been affected by the outbreak, forcing them to cancel a planned training camp at home and base themselves in Europe instead. The Congolese side are preparing for their first World Cup appearance since 1974, when they competed as Zaire.

They play in Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan. With matches scheduled across the United States and Mexico, US authorities have required the team to undergo a 21-day isolation period before entering the country.

The 18-year-old Yamal and fellow winger Nico Williams are expected to be available for Spain's World Cup opener against debutants Cape Verde on June 15. Luis de la Fuente's team took the lead after just two minutes in Puebla, Mexico, when Real Sociedad's Mikel Oyarzabal rifled into the top corner from outside the box.

Barcelona midfielder Pedri doubled Spain's lead on 32 minutes, and a Pedro Gallese own goal eight minutes after half-time made it 3-0 when the goalkeeper flapped a cross into his own net. Jairo Velez scored a consolation after 66 minutes in front of a crowd of 46,000.

Apart from Mosaddek's inclusion, Bangladesh almost retained the side that played in their most recent ODI assignment against New Zealand in April. Rishad Hossain, Soumya Sarkar, Shoriful Islam and Nurul Hasan Sohan were left out from the starting XI.

The series marks Australia's first ODI tour of Bangladesh in 15 years. During their previous visit in 2011, Australia completed a 3-0 whitewash over the hosts.

Bangladesh have struggled against Australia in the 50-over format, winning just one of their 22 ODIs. Their lone victory came at Cardiff in 2005, inspired by a memorable century from Mohammad Ashraful, who now serves as Bangladesh's batting coach.

Australia remain the only major cricketing nation against whom Bangladesh have yet to register more than one ODI victory.

Despite the unfavourable record, Bangladesh enter the series with renewed confidence following an impressive run of form at home. Over the past six months, they have secured ODI series victories against West Indies, Pakistan and New Zealand, reinforcing their reputation as a formidable side in home conditions.

The last ODI meeting between the two sides came during the 2023 World Cup when Mitchell Marsh smashed 177 off 132 balls to guide Australia to a successful chase of Bangladesh's 306-run total.

Bangladesh have won three of their last five ODIs, compared to Australia's two victories in the same period. The visitors arrived in Dhaka following a 2-1 ODI series defeat to Pakistan.

Australia are also missing several key players. Marsh and Travis Head, who missed the Pakistan series, were initially expected to feature in Bangladesh but were ruled out shortly before the tour. Marsh continues to recover from an ankle injury, while Head is on personal leave.

Australia handed a debut to South Australian allrounder Liam Scott as they are searching for a suitable squad ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, according to stand-in captain Josh Inglis.

Line Ups: 

Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Saif Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das (wk), Mosaddek Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Tanvir Islam

Australia: Matthew Short, Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis (capt/wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Matthew Renshaw, Liam Scott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa

A hashtag related to Ma's trip to the tournament has received more than 3.6 million views on social media platform Weibo, while the referee's RedNote account has gained 195,000 followers in less than two weeks. Ma has also appeared in collaborations with brands such as laptop maker Lenovo, electronics manufacturer Hisense and dairy product firm Mengniu. Ma's first post on the RedNote app showed him drawing a little red book from his referee's front pocket in a play on the platform's Chinese name.

Another showed him at an airport in China as he prepared to depart for the footballing extravaganza in Mexico, Canada and the United States. "His luggage is probably all filled with yellow and red cards," one Weibo user commented under Ma's airport post. Ma gained his "Card Master" moniker after dishing out nine yellow cards and three reds in an ill-tempered Shanghai derby in 2015.

Others revelled in the prospect of Ma officiating a match between the United States and Iran, fulfilling China's role as a peace-broker in the conflict. "The whole country is behind you (though no one from the Chinese football team)," another social media user commented in a jibe at the national team's failure to qualify. Ma is the only Chinese match referee at the tournament, where he is making his second World Cup appearance, having debuted as a fourth official in Qatar in 2022. He is joined in North America by assistant referee Zhou Fei and VAR official Fu Ming.

"With less than three days remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup... the United States has once again acted to obstruct the presence of Iranian supporters at the stadiums hosting the national team's three group stage matches," the federation said in a statement. The Iranian football body said FIFA regulations dictate that it should be allocated eight percent of tickets for each match, which are given to participating federations for distribution to their supporters through official channels.

According to the statement, Iran had already begun ticket sales for group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt -- all to be held in the US -- after receiving its quota, with some fans having already made necessary arrangements. "However, in an unexpected move, the allocation granted to the Iranian Football Federation has been withdrawn, and under the current circumstances, the federation is unable to provide even a single ticket to supporters of the national team," it said.

The federation described the move as "contrary to the spirit governing international competitions and the principle of equality among participating countries". It also called on FIFA and tournament organisers "to uphold the principles of neutrality, fairness, and established regulations, to provide the necessary conditions for Iranian supporters". Neither FIFA nor US organisers have publicly commented on the Iranian accusation.

The complaint is the latest dispute regarding Iran's participation in the World Cup, following visa issues that Tehran says have prevented some 15 administrative and management staff in its delegation from entering the United States. Rising tensions also prompted Iran to announce that it was moving its World Cup training base to the Mexican border city of Tijuana rather than Tuscon, Arizona, as originally planned. Iran open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, before facing Belgium in the same city on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

Organized by the Bangladesh Squash Federation and sponsored by Turaag Active, a concern of Urmi Group, the national-level championship will feature talented players from different regions of the country competing for the prestigious title.

The announcement was made at a press conference held on Monday (June 8) at the Bangladesh Olympic Association Bhaban in Dhaka by Brigadier General (Retd.) G M Kamrul Islam, SPP, NDC, PSC, MBA, MPhil, General Secretary of Bangladesh Squash Federation.

The press conference was attended by Major General Md. Hasan Uz Zaman, NDU, AFWC, PSC, MSc, Engg ( evn) MPhil, FIEB President of Bangladesh Squash Federation, who was present as the chief guest.

Also present were Major (Retd.) Imruz Ahmed, Vice President of Bangladesh Olympic Association; Zubaidur Rahman, Secretary General of Bangladesh Olympic Association; officials of Bangladesh Squash Federation; members of the organising committee; and representatives of Turaag Active, the title sponsor of the championship.

During the event, the championship trophy of Turaag Active 6th National Squash Championship 2026 was unveiled. The official trophy unveiling ceremony, attended by federation officials and Turaag Active representatives, marked the beginning of the final countdown to the tournament.

Speaking at the press conference, Major General Md. Hasan Uz Zaman said players from different regions, sports institutions, universities, and clubs across Bangladesh will participate in this year’s championship.

He said the selection process is already at its final stage in several regions and institutions, including Khagrachhari, Bandarban, Chattogram, Gopalganj, Thakurgaon, Sylhet, Cumilla, Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), Independent University Bangladesh (IUB), and various clubs and organization’s in Dhaka.

The federation president said the competition will be held across nine categories, including men’s and women’s open categories, amateur and university student categories, as well as separate boys’ and girls’ categories in Under-11, Under-13, and Under-15 age groups.

The matches will be played at three venues in Dhaka — Army Squash Complex, Bashundhara Sports City, and Army Officers’ Mess

Marsh will, however, fly over to be with the team as he prepares for a comeback in the subsequent Twenty20 series in Bangladesh. Teenage batsman Ollie Peake and big-hitter Matt Short, who were due to head home after Pakistan, will now stay on. Off-spinner Todd Murphy, who has seven Test caps but is yet to play limited-overs cricket for Australia, will fill Sangha's role.

"Unfortunately, Tanveer Sangha sustained a hamstring injury during the second ODI against Pakistan and will take no further part in the tour," said national selector Tony Dodemaide. "We were hopeful Mitch Marsh would be available for the Bangladesh ODI series however he is still returning to full fitness from an ankle injury. "Travis was initially selected in the ODI and T20I legs of this Bangladesh tour but has subsequently been granted personal leave for both," he added.

Australia squad: Josh Inglis (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Oliver Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Liam Scott, Matt Short, Adam Zampa

"My national team is coming to my city, and being here is a small thing I can do just to welcome them," the man in his thirties told AFP, proudly wearing the white jersey with green and red trim of the Iranian side, known as "Team Melli." The gesture felt especially important because the tournament is beginning under difficult circumstances for Iran. While the players obtained the visas necessary to enter the United States and play their group-stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, not all delegation members received them.

About 15 accompanying officials were denied visas, including Iranian football federation president Mehdi Taj, who previously served in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, designated a terrorist group by Washington. "It makes no sense to me," Galavi complained. "Sport is supposed to be a symbol of peace, so when you mix politics and sports, it doesn't work." The visa controversy is the latest chapter in the drama surrounding Iran's team at this unusual World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Since the first Israeli and American strikes against Iran in late February, the war has created repeated uncertainty over Team Melli's participation. Never before had a nation competing in the tournament been at war with one of the host countries, and Tehran long left open the question of whether its team would be allowed to play. The insistence of FIFA ultimately prevailed. But two weeks ago, rising tensions prompted the Iranian federation to announce that the team would stay in Tijuana rather than in Tucson, Arizona, as originally planned.

With all these off-field developments, can the Iranians play their best football against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt and finally advance from the group stage -- a feat they have never achieved? Sina Moghadam has no doubts, and displays unwavering faith in his team. "Iran's history goes back thousands of years. Things like this only make us stronger; they won't destabilize the team," boasted the Iranian-American, who had traveled from San Diego, just across the border in California.

"The Brazilian Football Confederation announces that the player Wesley was re-evaluated this Sunday by the medical staff of the Brazilian National Team and underwent imaging tests," the CBF said. "The MRI revealed a muscle injury in the adductor muscle of his left thigh. "In light of the diagnosis, the CBF announces the call-up of the player Ederson, who will join the squad this Monday in the United States," the governing body added. Five-time World Cup winners Brazil start their campaign on Saturday against Morocco before facing Haiti and Scotland in Group C.

The 29-year-old joked it was "fine" if people now consider him "the worst player to win a Grand Slam" but that he "could not care less". "Now no matter what happens, I will always be a Grand Slam champion, and nobody can take that away from me," Zverev added. "To be honest, I'm a little bit drunk already, so I just repeat myself a little bit more than I'm used to. I'm just happy to be sitting next to this trophy."

The Tokyo Olympics gold medallist said having the Coupe des Mousquetaires in his possession would make his future attempts at winning more of tennis' biggest titles less burdensome, mentally. "For sure this trophy helps the belief a lot," he said. "That does give me some freedom. It does give me some -- maybe my mind will just be a little bit calmer when I play a final, meaning that even if I lose it, I will still be a Grand Slam champion.

"I think this trophy for me is very important, because if I would have lost this one, the self-belief would have gone down a lot. But now that I've won it, I feel like I can do it again." However, Zverev admitted that the favourite tag he had seemed to carry serenely through most of the tournament did weigh on him during the final against world number 14 Cobolli. "I was just very tight today. I honestly feel like I've managed the last two weeks extremely well, because with all the losses that happened early on with Jannik (Sinner) going out, with Novak (Djokovic) going out, I managed to stay composed, I managed to stay calm in my mind," he said.

"But then today I feel like I didn't manage so well." Zverev revealed he experienced "mental cramps" during the match, but in the end they helped him get over the line after four hours and 16 minutes of battle on Court Philippe Chatrier. "I was a lot more nervous, which at some stage is also human, I think. That's why I say the cramps helped me in a way, because my mind let go," he explained.

"I started swinging more freely. I started hitting the ball a bit more aggressive. All of that, you know, that's because of the cramps. I couldn't focus on being tight anymore. I had to kind of let go. That's why I played the fifth set the way I did." 

The Atlas Lions are targeting another deep run at the 2026 World Cup, where they open their Group C campaign against Brazil next Saturday before further first round matches with Scotland and Haiti. Against fellow World Cup qualifiers Norway on Sunday, the Moroccans suggested they could well be equipped to mount a deep run at the 2026 finals. Diaz opened the scoring after just eight minutes, calmly gathering a cross after a superb run down the left flank by Abde Ezzalzouli before burying a low finish.

Norway, who started with Manchester City's Erling Haaland in attack, created little of note during the first half, with their best chance a glancing header from Alexander Sorloth that drifted wide. Morocco continued to create the better openings, with Ezzalzouli going close to doubling the African champions' lead in the 38th minute after volleying just over from Diaz's pass. Norway's best chance of the half came on the stroke of halftime when Antonio Nusa's shot from the left was clawed away by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Diaz almost bagged a second goal in the 57th minute but his shot was parried by Norway goalkeeper Orjan Nyland and Neil Al-Aynaoui's header on the rebound flew over. Instead it was Norway who grabbed a share of the spoils, with Odegaard lashing home Bobb's cross 15 minutes from time to make it 1-1. Norway kick off their tournament against Group I opponents Iraq on June 16 before taking on Senegal and France.

At the start of the tournament, Bangladesh earned praise for their disciplined defensive performances. Holding Pakistan to a draw despite being reduced to ten men and putting up a spirited fight against Afghanistan were among the team's notable achievements. However, despite having an opportunity to clinch victory against the Maldives, Bangladesh conceded a late equaliser and had to settle for a draw.

"When I was 18, maybe I was a bit too young, and maybe I was a bit too scared to make the change straight away," he said of snubbing Australia in 2022. "Maybe I was in my comfort zone a bit, playing for Italy.

"Something, I don't know, in my heart just said 'I think it's time to come home'." It was a boost for Australia after injured Middlesbrough midfielder Riley McGree was ruled out of the World Cup. Volpato made his first appearance for Australia in the pre-World Cup friendly 1-1 draw against Switzerland in San Diego on Saturday.

He is still acclimatising after his late arrival in training camp and was substituted at half-time. Volpato plays for Serie A side Sassuolo and said he spent a long time talking with fellow Australian and Parma defender Alessandro Circati about his decision. "I'm Italian and I'm Australian, so it's actually been a big decision that's always been on my head 24/7 for quite a while," Volpato said. "Obviously, I do feel Australian, so it felt really good coming in, being brought in by the boys, and speaking English -- Aussie."

Brazil open their World Cup Group C campaign against 2022 semi-finalists Morocco on June 13, before further first round fixtures against Scotland and Haiti. African qualifiers Egypt launch their World Cup against Belgium on June 15 before facing New Zealand and Iran in Group G. In front of a large contingent of their fans at the home of the Cleveland Browns NFL team, Brazil got off to a dream start, taking the lead after only seven minutes following a blunder by Egypt. Midfielder Mohanad Lashin was caught in possession on the edge of the area by Newcastle's Guimaraes, who collected the ball and tucked a low finish past Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir.

Brazil's lead was short-lived, however, and it was another defensive howler that led to Egypt's equalizer. An under-hit back pass by Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos gifted possession to Egypt's Mostafa Zico, who drilled a crisp finish into the bottom corner past Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. Thereafter it was Brazil who created the better chances, with Shoubir twice being forced to save in quick succession, from Vinicius Jr and Barcelona striker Raphinha, as the South Americans chased a second. Ancelotti rang the changes at half-time with eight substitutions, among them the introduction of 19-year-old Endrick, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Lyon from Real Madrid.

The talented youngster was quick to make his mark. Raphinha ghosted clear down the left-hand side of the penalty area and cut back to Endrick, who swept a finish into the far corner for 2-1.

"I'm excited, can't wait for it to get started." New Zealand were thrashed 4-0 by Haiti on Wednesday but Thomas Tuchel's men found clear-cut chances far harder to come by in their first experience of the brutal conditions in the United States. Tuchel named two entirely different sides for each half, but there was little to read into his team selection ahead of England's opening game of the World Cup against Croatia on June 17. "The energy is right and the quality will come," said Tuchel. "The better the opponent gets, the better we will get."

Kane typically made the breakthrough from an in-swinging cross by Spence, who impressed at left-back. Ivan Toney replaced Kane among the 11 changes made by Tuchel at the break. Toney thought he had won a penalty only for New Zealand to be rescued by a marginal offside call against the Al Ahli striker. England dominated possession but could not add to their lead with the Kiwis happy to keep the score down. Despite not having won a major tournament for 60 years, England go into the World Cup among the favourites having reached at least the quarter-finals in their last four tournaments.

They also face Ghana and Panama in Group L. New Zealand will face Iran, Belgium and Egypt in Group G.

Clarke named a close to full strength side and got the morale-boosting performance and result he would have wanted. Shankland made his case to start against Haiti with a third goal in the past two games by heading in Andy Robertson's cross on five minutes. New Rangers signing Shankland then teed up McTominay to fire in from the edge of the box.

Bournemouth's Ben Gannon Doak showed blistering pace to twice set up Torino striker Adams to fire home from close range before the break. Scotland also face Morocco and Brazil in Group C.

She was joined on six-under by South Korean Kim, who carded a three-under 68 at Riviera Country Club, the iconic Pacific Palisades course that will host the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics golf competition. "It's always amazing to be in this position," Korda said of the chance to challenge for a third career major title.

The American kick-started her round with a chip-in birdie at the third hole and rolled in an 18-footer at the sixth. She gave a shot back with a bogey at the eighth, but powered home with birdies at 16, 17 and 18. "Just had a comfortable eight-iron on 16," she said of the shot that left her "solid, straightforward" five and a half-foot birdie putt.

At 17, she bombed her drive but missed the green, chipping to two feet to pick up another shot. "And then 18 I smoked my drive and just had a nine-iron in," Korda said. "Pretty comfortable, nice little birdie finish. "I'm really happy with how I grinded out the front nine and then took the opportunities that I had on the last three holes."

Korda has said her runner-up finish in last year's US Open fueled her hunger to win her national championship, but she said she can't let that desire get the better of her on Sunday. "I think last year I really, really wanted it, and the more you want it sometimes the more you stiffen up and you get a little bit more nervous," she said. "I play my best golf when I'm happy, free Nelly ... so that's kind of the attitude that I'm going to have tomorrow."

Kim, whose 13 LPGA titles include a major at the 2020 Women's PGA Championship, was alone in first on six-under after birdies at the 10th and 12th, draining a seven-footer at 10 and a five-footer at 12. But she missed the green at the par-four 15th and her chip left her 12 feet. She two-putted to drop a shot but birdied the 17th. "I played better than yesterday, for sure," Kim said. "It has been a long time since I won a major championship, so maybe I'll play under pressure tomorrow but I'll try to just do what I have to do to focus on the course."

The leading duo were one stroke clear of South Korean Chun In-gee and American Jennifer Kupcho, who both shot 69. Chun, who won the first of her three major titles at the 2015 US Women's Open, launched her round with an eagle at the first. She was tied for the lead after a chip-in birdie at 11 followed by a 21-foot birdie at the 12th but gave a stroke back at 16.

Kupcho, tied for the lead after a pair of front-nine birdies, dropped off the pace with bogeys at 12 and 13 but bounced back with birdies at 16 and 17. Overnight co-leader Yin Ruoning of China carded an even par 71 to headline a trio sharing fifth on four-under 20. She was joined by Japan's Nasa Hataoka (68) and Mexico's Gaby Lopez (70).

A lethargic game burst into life on 37 minutes when Nicolas Tagliafico was fouled in the penalty area by Cristopher Melendez and Inter Milan forward Martinez drove home the spot kick low to his left to make it 1-0 on 37 minutes. The lively Martinez was the creator when Argentina doubled their lead on 54 minutes as his intelligent backheel set up Atletico Madrid's Simeone to fire past Honduras goalkeeper Edrick Menjivar.

In other highlights, Giovani Lo Celso hit the crossbar with a superb curling shot from outside the area in the first half and Tomas Aranda's second-half attempt was well saved by the Honduras 'keeper. Honduras barely crossed the halfway line in the second half as Argentina exterted their dominance. Argentina face Iceland in their final friendly match in Auburn, Alabama on Tuesday before the three-time winners begin their World Cup group games against Algeria on June 17 in Kansas City. Scaloni has indicated that Messi could play a small part in one of the friendlies, meaning an appearance against Iceland is likely.

Popovic named an experimental starting side, with seven changes from Australia's 1-0 defeat to Mexico last week, before reverting to a likely first-choice line-up for the second-half. "I'm just happy. We've got no injuries. We've got through the game," Popovic said. "We got a result, that always helps and we scored a very nice goal. We need to start better, of course, next week, that will help us." Australia, who are at their sixth successive World Cup, are in Group D alongside Turkey, co-hosts the United States and Paraguay.

The Swiss are pitted with Qatar, Bosnia-Herzegovina and co-hosts Canada in Group B. Popovic said he was encouraged by holding a near full-strength Swiss side ranked eight places above them at 19th and believes his youthful team can make it through to the knockout rounds. "If you ask every Australian, they expect to be right at the end because we always feel that we can punch above our weight," he said.

"We've proven that time and time again in all sports, and we've done it in football. So we've shown what we can do." In Qatar four years ago, Australia made it through the group phase and gave eventual champions Argentina a scare in the last 16 before going out to a brave 2-1 defeat orchestrated by Lionel Messi. "We want to go through, and that's the challenge that we have," added Popovic. "We want it to be a knockout stage where we know anything is possible.

"But if we peel it back, there's a lot of work to do until then, and we've got a really tough group, but I'd like to think that our opponents will see us as a tough task as well." Australia open their World Cup against Turkey in Vancouver on June 13, while the Swiss kick off against Qatar in San Francisco on the same day.

Born in Brooklyn to Haitian parents, he spent his early childhood in Haiti before his family resettled in Ottawa. His multicultural background mirrors that of a Canadian squad built of players with diverse, immigrant roots. Football has always been part of him. He fell into the sport "as soon as (he) could walk", inspired by his father and early childhood in Haiti, where football is hugely popular.

He has only a handful of memories from his time there, but they remain meaningful. Returning in 2021 for a World Cup qualifier with Canada was a moment of immense pride. As a boy, it was the Barcelona teams of the 2000s -- and Ronaldinho in particular -- that captured his imagination and fuelled his desire to one day play in Europe. That ambition carried him to Belgium with Gent and then to Lille, where he became one of the most prolific forwards in the French club's history. He scored 109 goals in 232 appearances, won the Ligue 1 title in 2021, and climbed to third on Lille's all?time scoring list.

"I've advertised him often as the most intelligent footballer I've ever coached," Canada coach Jesse Marsch said in 2024. "He's really clever. We all really believe that he can be one of the best in the world, if he's not already in that category." Yet David remains modest, and happy to shun the spotlight. "Personally, speaking in public isn't really in my nature because I don't like putting myself forward - I'm someone who is discreet and calm," he once told La Voix du Nord newspaper. "After a match I prefer to leave the stadium without saying a word."

Last summer, David joined Juventus on a free transfer. He remains the most expensive Canadian footballer in history, with Lille splashing out 30 million euros ($34.8 million) to sign him in 2020. His first season in Italy, however, proved challenging. He scored just eight times in 46 appearances and saw his minutes reduced late in the campaign. "For me, I think it's been up and down... I wasn't scoring as regularly as I wanted to," he told TSN in April. "Juventus is the club that is under more scrutiny than any other club in Italy; there are all these eyes on you, and obviously, people will talk."

Still, David remains central to Canada's hopes. Alongside captain Alphonso Davies -- who is in a race against time to be fit -- he is one of the faces of a team seeking its first?ever World Cup victory. And his ambition is clear. "My wildest dream? Let's just say winning the World Cup with Canada. If I ever manage to do that, honestly, I could retire the very next day," David told La Voix du Nord.

That may be a stretch, but a more realistic target is to help transform the sport at home. "I want this World Cup to change soccer in Canada forever, to make it maybe the number one sport in the country," David told FIFA.com. "The national team have come on leaps and bounds since I came into the picture," he reflected. "To win a match would be momentous for Canada. After that, the aim is obviously to go as far as possible in the competition."

There was no immediate word from Inter Miami on the exact reason for Messi's substitution. Any significant injury to the five-time Ballon D'Or winner, though, would deal a huge blow to Messi and Argentina's hopes of defending their World Cup crown in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament kicks off in Mexico City on June 11, with Argentina due to play their opening game against Algeria in Kansas City five days later.

Inter Miami's game on Sunday was the last before MLS takes a break ahead of the World Cup. Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play in the World Cup, but is widely expected to return for what will be a record-equalling sixth appearance at the finals. Argentina's squad is due to be named next week, and the South American giants will head to the United States shortly afterwards for pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras in Texas on June 6, followed by a game against Iceland on June 9.

Canada's American coach Jesse Marsch insists his team, which includes the likes of Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies and Juventus's Jonathan David, have set their sights high. "We want to win the World Cup," Marsch said last year. "That may sound ridiculous, but why would we go into any tournament at any time and think, 'Yeah, let's see how we do, and maybe we get one win. Or can we score a goal?'"

While outright victory remains monumentally unlikely, Canada's results under Marsch suggest that winning a first World Cup game is well within reach. The Canadians surprised many by reaching the semi-finals of the Copa America in 2024, where they only narrowly lost on penalties to Uruguay in the third-place playoff. The biggest challenge to Canada's group campaign is likely to come from Switzerland, who are returning for their sixth straight World Cup.

The Swiss have a consistent record of navigating the group stages -- reaching the second rounds in 2022, 2018 and 2014 -- but have never won a World Cup knockout game. They fared better at the 2024 Euros, eliminating defending champions Italy in the last 16 before suffering a penalty shoot-out defeat to England. The Swiss possess attacking threat in forward Breel Embolo, who is likely to be flanked by Nottingham Forest's Dan Ndoye and Sevilla winger Ruben Vargas. Sunderland's Granit Xhaka returns to anchor the midfield in what is likely to be his fourth and final World Cup. Bosnia meanwhile will feature another player gracing the World Cup stage for the final time, the 40-year-old striker Edin Dzeko returning to the tournament 12 years after his only other appearance at the 2014 finals in Brazil.

That campaign in 2014 marked the only other time Bosnia have played in a major championships. Dzeko played a key role in their journey to the 2026 finals, scoring the equalizer in a dramatic playoff win over Wales in Cardiff before the team went on to stun four-time world champions Italy. At the other end of the age spectrum, Bosnia will look to PSV Eindhoven's 21-year-old Esmir Bajraktarevic and 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic for goals.

Like Canada, Asian minnows Qatar are also chasing a first World Cup win, four years after losing all three group games on home soil in 2022. Qatar's campaign will be overseen by former Spain, Real Madrid and West Ham United boss Julen Lopetegui, who is finally arriving at the World Cup eight years after being sacked by Spain on the eve of the 2018 finals. Lopetegui faces an uphill task to buck Qatar's World Cup record, with his selection of the 42-year-old Sebastian Soria underscoring the country's shallow player pool.

The co-hosts get the tournament under way against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on June 11 before later first round games against South Korea and the Czech Republic. With a consistent record of reaching the last 16 in the seven World Cups spanning 1994 and 2018, Mexico have enough tournament pedigree to suggest that qualification from Group A should be straightforward.

While the 2022 tournament bucked that trend -- Mexico exited in the first round after a dismal campaign -- recent results have suggested a return to form. Veteran coach Javier Aguirre, who led Mexico at the 2002 and 2010 World Cups, returned for a third spell in charge in 2024 and led 'El Tri' to victories in last year's CONCACAF Nations League and CONCACAF Gold Cups.

Veteran striker Raul Jimenez provides a reliable goalscoring cutting edge in attack, while 17-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora could also emerge as one of the most talented young players of the tournament. Mexico's biggest challenge in Group A is likely to come from South Korea, who enter the tournament on the back of an unbeaten 16-game qualifying campaign.

An ever-present at the World Cup since qualifying for the 1986 finals in Mexico, South Korea reached the last 16 in Qatar and will fancy their chances of charting a path to the knockout rounds once again. Head coach Hong Myung-bo, who took over in 2024 after a troubled one-year reign under Jurgen Klinsmann, has a squad studded with European-based players, notably Paris Saint-Germain's Lee Kang-in and Bayern Munich's Kim Min-jae.

In attack, former Tottenham forward Son Heung-min will provide the goal threat, although the Major League Soccer-based veteran arrives at the tournament in miserable domestic form, having failed to score for Los Angeles FC this season. The Czech Republic are the lone European team in the group, and have everything to prove after a haphazard qualifying campaign that included a seismic 2-1 defeat to the Faroe Islands that led to the dismissal of coach Ivan Hasek last October.

Miroslav Koubek, 74, replaced Hasek and subsequently guided the team through the playoffs with back-to-back defeats of Ireland and Denmark, both games won on penalties. South Africa meanwhile are making only their fourth appearance at the World Cup and their first since hosting the 2010 tournament. The Bafana Bafana have never progressed past the group stage, and will look to buck that trend under the guidance of 74-year-old Belgian coach Hugo Broos, who steered Cameroon to the Africa Cup of Nations title in 2017.

The 33-year-old winger, who will captain Egypt at the 2026 World Cup next month, leaves as the Reds' third-highest goalscorer of all-time on 257.

Popularly known as the Egyptian King, Salah played 74 minutes before being substituted for Jeremie Frimpong in a 1-1 draw with Brentford.

AFP Sport highlights African headline-makers in the major European leagues:

ENGLAND

MOHAMED SALAH (Liverpool)

Salah waved an emotional farewell to Liverpool after nine glittering years at Anfield in a draw against Brentford. There was no goodbye goal for Salah, but he did provide the assist for Curtis Jones as a point secured Liverpool's place in the Champions League next season.

ANTOINE SEMENYO (Manchester City)

Semenyo finished third in the Premier League goalscoring charts this season after netting his 17th for runners-up Manchester City in a 2-1 home defeat by fourth-placed Aston Villa. The Ghanaian international was one of the few City stars not rested by Pep Guardiola in his final game in charge and flicked in from a corner to open the scoring at the Etihad.

BRYAN MBEUMO (Manchester Utd)

Cameroon international Mbeumo finished off a brilliant team move for his 12th goal of the season as third-placed United ended the season on a high with a 3-0 win at Brighton.

SPAIN

EZ ABDE (Real Betis)

Moroccan winger Abde ended an excellent campaign with a goal in Real Betis's 2-1 win over Levante on the final day of La Liga. The 24-year-old scored his 10th league goal of the season to put his team in front as they celebrated their Champions League qualification with a home victory.

BRAHIM DIAZ (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid playmaker Diaz netted the fourth in Los Blancos' emphatic 4-2 win over Athletic Bilbao. The Morocco international was able to score his first top-flight goal of a season in which he was often reduced to a bit-part role, from close range at the end of a neat team move.

RANDY NTEKA (Rayo Vallecano)

Vallecano are focused on the Conference League final against Crystal Palace on Wednesday, but were able to sign off from La Liga with a 2-1 win over Alaves thanks to Randy Nteka's late goal. The Angola attacker showed poise in the box to receive a low pass and drill home his third goal of the league season.

FRANCE

ABDALLAH SIMA (Lens)

The Senegalese striker struck on 78 minutes to seal a 3-1 victory for Lens over Nice in the French Cup final. Sima got on the end of a header back towards his own goal by veteran Brazilian defender Dante, and stabbed the ball into the net.

"We will therefore be based in Tijuana, near the Pacific Ocean. It is a city that lies between Mexico and the US, but it is located in Mexico. We have actually completed the team building there." Taj said that the move would help to avoid complications related to visas and that the squad could use Iran Air flights to travel directly to Mexico. Iran's participation in the World Cup has been in question for months because it is being co-hosted by the United States, which along with Israel began bombing Iran on February 28, sparking a wider war in the Middle East.

Iran have been drawn in Group G and will play their first two matches in Los Angeles. They open their campaign against New Zealand on June 15 and will then face Belgium on June 21 before rounding off their group games against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Taj said that Tijuana was closer to the cities where Iran will play than the camp in Arizona would have been.

"The distance for us in the two games that we have in LA will be a 55-minute flight. Which is a lot less compared to Tucson," the federation president said. The Iran team is currently preparing in Antalya, southern Turkey, and some of the squad went to the US embassy in Ankara on Thursday to submit visa applications for the World Cup. The Iranian football federation's vice-president Mehdi Mohammad Nabi said on Tuesday that the federation was unsure if US visas would be granted to all of the team and accompanying officials.

"We're not certain yet that all the players and staff will receive US visas," he said, but added that Iran was "very confident" in FIFA's protocols. Sarah Hanna, the head of the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson where the Iran team were to have been based, told AFP on Saturday that she could not confirm the move to Mexico and referred all questions to World Cup organisers. At a FIFA congress in Vancouver last month, president Gianni Infantino said that Iran would play their World Cup games in the US as scheduled.

"Let me start at the outset by confirming straight away, for those who maybe want to say something else or write something else, that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026," Infantino said then. "And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America. The reason for that is simple, because we have to unite. We have to bring people together." The World Cup, hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada, kicks off on June 11.

"I wanted the referee to let me go out on my shield or let me go in the 12th. I felt we were pretty even on the scorecards." He said he was thankful for the opportunity and revealed that Usyk had offered him a rematch. "I am super proud of my performance and hopefully, the boxing world embraces me as a boxer," he added. Despite having fought the likes of former champions Tyson Fury, Antony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, Usyk was given perhaps his toughest heavyweight fight by a man who had only boxed once before, in 2014.

Verhoeven is a legend of kick-boxing but no one expected him to cause the great Usyk so many problems in a boxing bout. "I know right now, Ukrainian people are sitting in the bomb shelter, my daughter too, in a bomb shelter, sent me a message saying, 'Papa, I love you, you will win'," said Usyk, who retained the WBA, WBC and IBF belts. "Thank you so much, Rico. You are an amazing fighter. Thank you so much to your team. My team, I love you. My wife, I love you. You are my light and my heart.

"This fight was hard. It was a good fight." Until the controversial stoppage, Verhoeven had proved to be more than a tricky competitor and gave Usyk a huge scare. His jerky style, bulldozing aggression and powerful right hand had troubled a sluggish-looking Usyk for most of the fight. The fight had attracted a host of boxing greats to ringside including Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, Terence Crawford, Gennady Golovkin and former heavyweight champions Joshua and Andy Ruiz.

But as an exhausted Verhoeven started to labour in the 11th round, Usyk unleashed a stunning uppercut to drop the Dutchman. There were only seconds left of the round to survive after Verhoeven climbed off the canvas. But Usyk went straight in for the finish, unleashing a flurry of punches before the referee called off the bout with Verhoeven stumbling, but still on his feet.

With so little time left in the round, it seemed a hugely controversial call from the referee. Despite Verhoeven soaking up heavy punishment, he was likely still leading the fight. He had started well, landing a couple of vicious right hands in the opening round. Usyk struggled to find his range, and although he had a good fourth round, rocking Verhoeven with an uppercut, he seemed to be losing most of the early rounds.

As the rounds ticked down, everyone waited for Usyk to assert his superiority, but that did not come until the end of the 11th. A plush right hand sent Verhoeven down and through the ropes. Once he was up, Usyk unleashed a barrage but the Dutchman looked like he would be saved by the bell, until the referee intervened. Germany's WBC mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel entered the ring after the fight to call out Usyk. "I have waited so long for this fight. I am ready and I think Germany is ready for the fight. Let's do it in a German stadium. I think all the fans want it," Kabayel said. Usyk replied: "Let's do it, no problem. I am ready, brother."

Victory sealed a 14th league and cup double for Bayern and 21st cup success. "Going into this final, I felt like it was my responsibility as much as anyone to get us over the line," Kane said on German TV. "I know I'm going to get chances and I did again today. To score a hat-trick in a final is such a special feeling. It's just memories I'll remember forever." The England captain's first strike was set up by Michael Olise from the right, who now boasts an incredible 30 assists in all competitions this season.

Left winger Luis Diaz helped create the second and Kane added a penalty in stoppage time to complete a second-half hat-trick. The double once again highlighted Bayern's incredible dominance of German football. No other German club has achieved the double more than once.

This was the third time that Stuttgart were forced to watch on as Bayern celebrated this season. Bayern beat Stuttgart in the season-opening Super Cup and also secured the Bundesliga title with a big win over the Swabians in Munich in April. Coming into Saturday's match, Bayern had already beaten their opponents three times this season with a combined goal tally of 11-3.

Yet Stuttgart edged the first half, frequently troubling Bayern on the counter. Stuttgart's Maximilian Mittelstaedt and Chris Fuehrich, both left out of Germany's World Cup squad, were particularly impressive going forwards. Kane's only chance of the opening half came in the 21st minute when he headed a cross well over the bar.

Early in the second-half, Bayern made Stuttgart pay for their failure to convert their first-half chances when Olise set up Kane's opener. The France winger tore down the right and delivered a low-flying cross perfectly to Kane, who leapt forward and headed in from close range, making sure he had scored in each of Bayern's six games in the competition this season. Moments later, Bayern scuffed a golden chance to go two up when Konrad Laimer blasted a rebound well over the bar with Stuttgart's Alexander Nuebel on the ground and the goal unguarded.

With 10 minutes remaining, Kane made sure of things, collecting a Diaz pass on the spin and blasting a low shot into the bottom corner. Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller handled in the box in stoppage time, bringing Kane to the spot. The striker converted nervelessly to complete an incredible season at the club.

With double-defending champion Alcaraz missing through injury, Djokovic will enter his first-round match in the night session on Stade Philippe Chatrier against France's Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard knowing this may well be his best chance of claiming a record-breaking 25th crown. "It's been a lot of hours spent on the court and trying to perfect the game and the body and enable myself physically and game-wise to be ready for best of five (sets)," Djokovic told reporters Friday of his preparations as he returns from a shoulder issue.

"Let's see. I don't know whether that's going to be the case for the entire tournament, however long that tournament will be for me. "But Grand Slams have been, and I have said this many times, always the priority list, particularly in the last couple of years... So I can't wait to get on a court and start competing."

The third-seeded Serb enters the tournament with little match practice on clay after only competing in the Italian Open, where he was eliminated in his opening match earlier this month. Djokovic is a different beast when it comes to Grand Slams. Despite his reduced participation in ATP tournaments in recent years, he has nonetheless reached at least the semi-finals at each of the past five majors. He has, however, been handed a tough draw in the French capital.

First on the menu is former world number 29 Mpetshi Perricard, who, in addition to having one of the biggest serves on the tour, will also enjoy raucous home backing on Roland Garros' centre court. Second seed Alexander Zverev will also be in action on the opening day as the German faces home hope Benjamin Bonzi. Rising stars Joao Fonseca of Brazil and Czech Jakub Mensik will both open their bids on Court Simonne Mathieu.

Russia's Mirra Andreeva will be the highest-ranked woman playing on Sunday. The eighth seed meets French wildcard Fiona Ferro on Philippe Chatrier. "Of course it's never tricky to play a French player, especially in Paris," Andreeva joked. "Because obviously the crowd is gonna support her as much as they can, and that's totally okay. I mean, I have some experience even from last year when I played quarters, so I pretty much know what to expect."

Last year, the 19-year-old stormed through to the last eight before falling to French sensation Lois Boisson in a match in which Andreeva received a warning from the umpire for blasting the ball into the crowd. Swiss 11th seed Belinda Bencic will open play for the tournament on Philippe Chatrier against Austrian qualifier Sinja Kraus. Former Grand Slam champions Sofia Kenin, Barbora Krejcikova and Emma Raducanu all start their French Open campaigns too.

Lilli Tagger of Austria, the 2025 junior champion who has drawn comparisons to four-time Roland Garros winner Justine Henin for her elegant single-handed backhand, will make her bow in the senior draw on court nine against Chinese 32nd seed Wang Xinyu.

The Knicks seized a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference finals and could complete a sweep in game four on Monday in Cleveland. No team in NBA history has recovered from a 3-0 deficit to win a playoff series. "The series isn't over," Anunoby said. "Just keep our foot on their necks and just try to win the game." Brunson said the Knicks must continue to concentrate.

"Just focus on one possession at a time," Brunson said. "The way we've been having that mindset these past couple weeks, we have to continue it, if not actually better." The Knicks last reached the NBA Finals 27 years ago when they lost to San Antonio. They have not won the NBA championship since 1973.

New York's Karl-Anthony Towns had 13 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals while Josh Hart added 12 points, nine rebounds, five assists and four steals for a Knicks team that has not been beaten in a month. "Our mindset hasn't changed," Brunson said. "We're trying to get better every single day. We're trying to learn from winning. "There's a lot of things we can get better at. There's a lot of things we can control, a lot of mental errors that we need to clean up, but we're always just looking for ways to try and get better."

Evan Mobley led Cleveland with 24 points while Donovan Mitchell added 23 and James Harden scored 19 points. The Cavaliers, who squandered a 22-point lead to lose the series opener, never led as New York seized command early and dominated.

"I guess you could say momentum carried over (from game one)," Anunoby said. "We try to play the right way every game but maybe that momentum carried over a little bit." New York started the game 10-of-13 from the floor to seize a 29-19 lead only 8:29 into the contest, Towns delivering 11 points in the run on the way to a 37-27 lead after the first quarter.