Kylian Mbappe became the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history on Saturday, but the historic milestone came in a losing cause as France fell 6-4 to England in a thrilling third-place playoff in Miami Gardens, Florida. The French captain scored twice in the second half to take his World Cup tally to 22 goals, moving one ahead of Argentina legend Lionel Messi. However, France’s spirited comeback from a 4-0 halftime deficit fell short as England secured the bronze medal in one of the highest-scoring matches in World Cup history. Read More: Spain or Argentina: What’s Really at Stake in the World Cup Final? Mbappe Sets New Record but Misses the Final Mbappe found the net in the 48th and 66th minutes, breaking the all-time World Cup scoring record that Messi had held with 21 goals. The Real Madrid forward has now scored 22 World Cup goals across three tournaments, including four in 2018, eight in 2022 and 10 in the 2026 edition. Despite reaching another historic landmark, Mbappe admitted the personal achievement offered little comfort after France missed out on the World Cup final. “I’m just trying to help my team score every time,” Mbappe said after the match. “It’s for sure that when you score that many goals in the World Cup, it elevates you to certain levels but I would have liked to not be the top scorer in history and play tomorrow’s (championship) match.” “So, I think it’s good for legacy and when we stop (playing) to say that I was one of those players. But today, it’s not the first thing crossing my mind.” Read More: Messi Effect? FIFA World Cup Final Tickets Break US Record The 27-year-old’s latest achievement adds another chapter to an already remarkable World Cup career. He lifted the trophy with France in 2018 and scored a memorable hat trick in the 2022 final, although Argentina eventually won that match on penalties. Golden Boot Race Still Open Before Final Mbappe’s brace also strengthened his grip on the Golden Boot race. He now leads the tournament with 10 goals, two ahead of Messi, who has eight entering Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain. The final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, gives Messi one last opportunity to close the gap in both the Golden Boot standings and the all-time World Cup scoring chart. A hat trick would see the Argentine reclaim both records. Mbappe also became the first player to score 10 goals in a single World Cup since West Germany legend Gerd Muller achieved the feat in 1970. Read More: FIFA’s Ultimate Prize Gets a Luxury Louis Vuitton Journey France’s record-setting striker was overshadowed by England’s Bukayo Saka, who scored a hat trick as the Three Lions raced into a 4-0 halftime lead. France mounted an impressive second-half rally through Mbappe, Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele, but Jude Bellingham’s stoppage-time goal sealed England’s 6-4 victory. Although Mbappe leaves the tournament without a medal of the color France wanted, he departs having rewritten one of football’s most prestigious records. Whether it stands for long could depend on what Messi produces in the World Cup final.
FIFA’s Ultimate Prize Gets a Luxury Louis Vuitton Journey
The FIFA World Cup trophy will arrive at New York New Jersey Stadium in a bespoke Louis Vuitton trunk on Sunday. Argentina and Spain will contest the 2026 final. The French luxury house has created the trophy’s official carrying case for a fifth consecutive tournament. It previously produced trunks for the 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups. A Golden V for Victory and Vuitton The new trunk carries Louis Vuitton’s familiar monogram pattern across its exterior. A large golden V covers the front and represents both “Victory” and “Vuitton.” Gold-plated brass protectors reinforce the corners. Beige leather lines the interior, which also features a patch commemorating the partnership between FIFA and Louis Vuitton. “For over a decade, Louis Vuitton and Fifa have shared an unwavering commitment to excellence, bound by a shared belief in sport’s power to inspire and bring people together,” Louis Vuitton Chairman and Chief Executive Pietro Beccari said. The assignment links the company’s trunk-making heritage with one of the most watched events in international sport. The trophy’s arrival also becomes part of the final ceremony. Fifth World Cup Partnership Louis Vuitton first designed a World Cup trophy trunk for the 2010 tournament in South Africa. The company returned for Brazil in 2014, Russia in 2018 and Qatar in 2022. The original trophy normally has a permanent home at the FIFA Museum in Zurich. Museum officials removed it from display for the tournament and expect it to return shortly after the final. Only selected people may touch the original trophy, including former World Cup winners and heads of state. Winning teams receive a tournament edition rather than permanent ownership of the original prize. The trunk’s journey will conclude before Argentina face Spain on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Argentina seek a second straight title, while Spain are chasing their second World Cup victory. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said US President Donald Trump will help present the trophy after the match. Luxury Brands Strengthen Sports Links Louis Vuitton’s FIFA partnership forms part of a broader relationship between luxury brands and professional sport. The company also crafts bespoke trophy trunks for major Formula 1 Grands Prix. That work falls under a 10-year agreement with the motorsport championship. Tiffany & Co. has made the prize awarded to the Super Bowl champion since the first edition in 1967. The trophy later became known as the Vince Lombardi Trophy. For Louis Vuitton, the World Cup project carries special prestige because FIFA has only one original trophy for its four-year showpiece. The case must protect the prize while presenting it as a symbol of victory. Its monogram canvas, leather lining and gold details combine Louis Vuitton’s travel heritage with FIFA’s biggest stage. Once the trunk reaches the stadium, attention will shift to the contest for the trophy inside. Argentina and Spain will decide who lifts it before an expected crowd of about 80,000.
For the First Time, the FIFA World Cup Gets a Perfect Final Four
For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the top four teams in the FIFA world rankings have all reached the semi-finals, with Spain, Argentina, France and England advancing after a tournament format change designed to keep the highest-ranked nations apart until the final stages. Spain, ranked first in the world, will face third-ranked France in Tuesday’s semi-final. Second-ranked Argentina will meet fourth-ranked England on Wednesday. The historic lineup follows a major change introduced by FIFA for the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup. Before the tournament, FIFA announced that the four highest-ranked teams would be placed in separate pathways of the knockout bracket. The governing body said the move would ensure “competitive balance” by creating “two separate pathways to the semi-finals.” Read More:‘They Wanted Messi’: Egypt Coach Questions Argentina Victory The system meant Spain and Argentina could not meet before the final, while France and England were also separated until at least the semi-finals. However, each team first had to win its group to benefit from the protected pathway. All four successfully topped their groups before progressing through the knockout rounds. Expanded tournament prompted FIFA rethink The adjustment became necessary because the 2026 World Cup expanded from 32 to 48 teams, adding an extra knockout round. Under the previous 32-team format, group winners automatically avoided each other in the Round of 16. Early meetings between top-ranked nations were already uncommon. The new tournament structure created a greater chance that leading teams could meet much earlier in the knockout stage. FIFA responded by introducing a tennis-style seeding system similar to those used at Wimbledon and the UEFA Champions League, where the highest seeds remain separated until the later rounds. Read More: Experts Say the World Cup Is Being Played in Dangerous Heat FIFA explained that the new draw procedure aimed to maintain competitive balance while preserving the possibility of blockbuster matches in the closing stages of the tournament. The governing body had already tested a similar approach during the FIFA Club World Cup, although not every top seed reached the semi-finals. History made after decades of surprises The achievement is particularly notable because several highly ranked teams have suffered early exits in previous World Cups. Belgium entered the 2022 tournament among the world’s top four but failed to reach the knockout stage. Germany exited in the group phase in 2018 despite being one of the highest-ranked teams. Spain suffered the same fate in 2014, Italy in 2010 and France in 2002. Since FIFA introduced its men’s world rankings in 1994, no World Cup has previously produced a semi-final lineup featuring all four highest-ranked teams. Read More: Lionel Messi Makes World Cup History, Scores in 7 Straight Games This year, however, FIFA’s revised draw system combined with strong performances from the tournament favorites to produce exactly the outcome the governing body envisioned. Spain, Argentina, France and England now stand one victory away from the final, guaranteeing that the 2026 World Cup will conclude with one of the world’s top-ranked teams lifting football’s biggest prize.
Ronaldo Breaks New Ground in World Cup History at 41
Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name deeper into football history on Tuesday after becoming the first men’s player to score in six different FIFA World Cup campaigns. The Portugal captain reached the milestone during his side’s World Cup clash against Uzbekistan in Houston, finding the net just six minutes into the match. The goal ended weeks of scrutiny surrounding the 41-year-old forward and provided a timely response to critics who questioned his place in Portugal’s attack. Ronaldo reacted quickest inside the penalty area and converted from close range to hand Portugal an early lead. The strike added another remarkable achievement to a career that has already rewritten numerous football records. His first World Cup goal came nearly two decades ago during the 2006 tournament in Germany, when he scored against Iran. Twenty years later, he has now scored in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions of football’s biggest tournament. Ronaldo Silences Critics After Difficult Run The historic goal arrived at an important moment for the Portuguese star. Ronaldo entered the Uzbekistan match under pressure after failing to score in Portugal’s opening 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo. That result drew criticism from fans and pundits, with many questioning whether the veteran striker could still make the difference on the biggest stage. 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐨 𝐑𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐝𝐨 at his best. 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/C9AFikoNW1 — World Cup Xtra (@WorldCupXtraa) June 23, 2026 The match against Congo also extended a difficult run at major international tournaments. Before Tuesday’s game, Ronaldo had gone 10 consecutive appearances at the World Cup and European Championship without scoring a goal. During that period, he registered only one assist. The drought stood in sharp contrast to the recent performances of global stars such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended Ronaldo after the draw with Congo and insisted his experience remained vital to the team’s World Cup ambitions. A Career Defined by Longevity Ronaldo nearly made history even earlier in the match. Just three minutes after kick-off, he narrowly missed connecting with a cross from Nuno Mendes at the far post. The miss left the veteran visibly frustrated. He slapped the turf before quickly refocusing. Three minutes later, he made no mistake. The goal highlighted the extraordinary longevity that has defined Ronaldo’s career. He made his international debut for Portugal in 2003 and has remained a key figure for more than two decades. The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward now plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr. Despite turning 41 this year, Ronaldo continues to produce at the highest level. He scored 28 goals in 30 league appearances for Al Nassr during the most recent season. His latest World Cup milestone further strengthens his status as one of football’s greatest players. Portugal now hopes Ronaldo’s breakthrough goal will spark a deep run in the tournament as the European side pursues its first FIFA World Cup title. For Ronaldo, however, the night in Houston already secured a place in history. No male player has ever scored in six different World Cups. The Portugal captain now stands alone.
Argentina Advance as Messi Sets New World Cup Scoring Record
Lionel Messi became the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history on Monday after netting twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, guiding the defending champions into the knockout stage of the 2026 tournament. The Argentina captain scored his 16th and 17th World Cup goals in front of 70,649 spectators at AT&T Stadium in Texas. The brace moved him ahead of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who held the previous record with 16 goals. Argentina now advances to the Round of 32 with a match to spare. Lionel Scaloni’s side tops its group after opening the tournament with a 3-0 win over Algeria, where Messi also scored a hat-trick. The 38-year-old celebrated another milestone in a career already filled with records. His latest goals further strengthened his claim as one of football’s greatest players. Messi Misses Early Penalty but Makes History Argentina had a chance to take an early lead after Lautaro Martinez won a penalty. Referee Amin Mohamed awarded the spot kick following a VAR review. Messi stepped up in the ninth minute, but his effort drifted wide of the post. The miss surprised Argentina supporters inside the stadium. Lionel Messi extends his record: 18 @FIFAWorldCup goals! 👏 https://t.co/72Jb5SXlUQ pic.twitter.com/IAPTGfo056— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 22, 2026 Penalty kicks have remained one of the few blemishes in Messi’s remarkable career. He also missed from the spot during the 2018 World Cup and had another penalty saved against Poland in the 2022 tournament. Despite the setback, Argentina continued to dominate possession. Messi nearly scored in the 19th minute before Austria captain David Alaba made a crucial challenge. Alaba denied him again shortly after the half-hour mark. The defender blocked a goalbound effort with goalkeeper Alexander Schlager out of position. Austria, coached by Ralf Rangnick, spent most of the opening period defending deep. The European side failed to register a shot on target before halftime. Argentina Captain Delivers Again The breakthrough finally arrived in the 38th minute. Facundo Medina delivered a low pass into the penalty area. Thiago Almada cleverly allowed the ball to run through his legs, leaving Messi with a clear sight of goal. The Inter Miami star calmly swept the ball into the net. Argentina supporters erupted as Messi celebrated his record-breaking strike. All the records broken by Lionel Messi today:Most FIFA World Cup finals goals by a football (soccer) player – 18Most FIFA World Cup matches played in by an individual – 28Most matches won by a player at the football (soccer) FIFA World Cup – 18Most minutes played in the…— Guinness World Records (@GWR) June 22, 2026 The goal carried extra emotional weight. Reports later revealed that Messi’s father is recovering from an undisclosed health issue. Messi had already equalled Klose’s record with his hat-trick against Algeria. Monday’s opener moved him into sole possession of first place on the all-time World Cup scoring chart. Austria attempted to respond after the break, but Argentina controlled large portions of the match. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez faced little danger throughout the second half. Messi sealed the victory deep into stoppage time. Following a scramble inside the penalty area, he navigated past several defenders before forcing the ball over the line. The second goal ended Austrian hopes and confirmed Argentina’s place in the knockout rounds. Argentina will now focus on securing first place in the group, while Austria must regroup quickly to keep its qualification hopes alive. For Messi, the night added another chapter to an extraordinary international career. The World Cup champion now stands alone at the top of football’s biggest scoring list.
NZ Stunned as Salah Leads Egypt to Historic World Cup Win
Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand on Sunday night, helping the Pharaohs secure their first-ever FIFA World Cup win and move to the top of Group G. The Liverpool star scored the decisive goal in the second half before a packed crowd at BC Place in Vancouver, where thousands of Egyptian supporters celebrated a landmark moment in the nation’s football history. Egypt, appearing in its fourth World Cup and first since Russia 2018, now sits atop Group G. However, the Pharaohs still need at least a draw against Iran in Seattle on Friday to guarantee a place in the knockout stage. Salah’s strike was his 68th international goal and moved him within one goal of equalling Egypt coach Hossam Hassan’s national team scoring record. The forward celebrated by pumping his fist before teammates surrounded him near the corner flag. Fans later gave him a standing ovation when he left the field in the 85th minute. New Zealand Strike First New Zealand made the stronger start and took the lead in the 15th minute. Defender Finn Surman rose highest to meet a corner from Tim Payne and powered a header into the net. The goal marked Surman’s third international strike for the All Whites. The early breakthrough stunned Egypt, which struggled to create clear chances during the opening half. Salah came close in the 35th minute when Omar Marmoush rolled a free kick into his path. The effort drifted narrowly wide and struck the side netting. Egypt also suffered an injury setback before halftime. Midfielder Hamdy Fathy left the field after appearing to suffer an injury away from the ball. Ramy Rabia replaced him before the break. The Pharaohs entered the second half trailing but quickly increased the pressure. Salah Delivers as Egypt Makes History Egypt found the equaliser in the 58th minute through Mostafa Zico. The forward slipped between Surman and Payne before directing a header toward goal. Goalkeeper Max Crocombe got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out. Zico celebrated by urging Egyptian supporters to raise the noise inside the stadium. Mo salah scores to put Egypt up 2-1 🇪🇬 pic.twitter.com/ozb2MM5fHZ— Devin Wills (@Texaspete911) June 22, 2026 Nine minutes later, Egypt completed the turnaround. Zico delivered a clever back-heel pass into Salah’s path, and the captain calmly finished to give Egypt a 2-1 lead. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Egyptian fans and shifted momentum completely in the Pharaohs’ favour. Trezeguet sealed the victory in the 82nd minute with a diving header, ensuring Egypt collected all three points. The result represented a significant milestone for Egyptian football. Egypt participated in the World Cup in 1934, 1990 and 2018 but had never won a match before Sunday’s triumph. Salah scored twice during the 2018 tournament in Russia but could not prevent Egypt from exiting in the group stage. The Pharaohs opened their 2026 campaign with a 1-1 draw against Belgium. Emam Ashour scored early before Romelu Lukaku came off the bench and helped force an own goal. New Zealand entered the contest after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Iran. Elijah Just scored both goals in that match. The All Whites previously appeared at the 2010 World Cup, where they earned three draws but failed to register a victory. Egypt now stands one step away from reaching the knockout rounds, with Salah once again at the centre of the country’s World Cup ambitions.
Zidane Iqbal Makes History as First Player of Pakistani Heritage at FIFA World Cup
Midfielder Zidane Iqbal has etched his name into football history after becoming the first player of Pakistani heritage to appear in a men’s FIFA World Cup match. The 23-year-old Iraq international reached the milestone when he came off the bench during Iraq’s opening match against Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. Iqbal entered the game in the 59th minute at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, as Iraq suffered a 4-1 defeat to Norway. The match also marked a memorable World Cup debut for Norwegian striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice to help secure victory for his side. While the result disappointed Iraq, the occasion carried historic significance for Iqbal and millions of football fans with Pakistani roots around the world. Born in Manchester, England, Iqbal represents Iraq through his mother’s side of the family. His father is Pakistani, giving him a unique connection to two nations with deep personal significance. A Historic Moment for Pakistani Heritage in Football Speaking to BBC Sport, Iqbal admitted he did not initially realise the significance of his achievement. “To be honest, I didn’t even know it myself,” Zidane Iqbal told BBC Sport. “I followed the account that posted it [that he was the first player of Pakistani heritage to play at a men’s World Cup] and sent it to my dad straight away. I think we were both surprised. When I tried to qualify for the World Cup with Iraq, I didn’t think of anything like this.” The midfielder paid tribute to his father, whom he credits as one of the most influential figures in his football journey. “My dad is Pakistani. He’s my father, the man I respect the most in my life, who helped me so much in my career.” “I play for Iraq, grew up in England, but my dad was born in Pakistan. My grandad was a first-generation there, so I have a lot of respect for that side of my family.” Iqbal’s achievement comes at a time when football continues to grow in popularity among Pakistanis both at home and abroad. Pakistan has yet to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, making his appearance even more symbolic for many supporters. Carrying Two Flags With Pride Iqbal has often spoken about embracing both sides of his heritage. He revealed that he honours his family background by wearing the Iraqi and Pakistani flags on his boots. “I wear the Iraqi flag on my left side and the Pakistani flag on my right side,” he said. “I think that’s because I respect both sides.” “When people ask me what I feel more connected to, I can’t answer. For me, they’re both equal. It’s about respect and something I carry with a lot of pride.” Iqbal began his professional career at Manchester United, where he progressed through the club’s academy system before making his senior debut. He later moved to Dutch football and has continued his development at club level while becoming an important figure for Iraq’s national team. Although Iraq’s World Cup campaign started with defeat, Iqbal’s appearance ensured the match will be remembered for more than the scoreline. For many football fans of Pakistani heritage, it represented a groundbreaking moment on the sport’s biggest stage.
Messi Makes World Cup History With Record-Equalling Hat-Trick
Lionel Messi delivered a historic performance on Tuesday, scoring the first World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career as defending champions Argentina opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. The 38-year-old superstar lit up Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, where more than 69,000 fans witnessed another milestone in a career already packed with records. Messi became the first footballer to play in six FIFA World Cups when he led Argentina onto the pitch for his 200th international appearance. He then added another chapter to his legacy by scoring three goals and moving level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the joint highest scorer in World Cup history with 16 goals. Argentina dominated from the opening whistle and rarely allowed Algeria a chance to settle. Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute. He curled a brilliant strike into the corner to register his 14th World Cup goal. The effort moved him level with German legend Gerd Muller and France captain Kylian Mbappe in the all-time rankings. Historic Hat-Trick Delights Argentina Fans The Argentine captain reached another landmark in the 60th minute. He reacted quickest after Alexis Mac Allister’s effort rebounded into his path and calmly slotted home for his second goal of the night. That strike lifted Messi to 15 World Cup goals and placed him alongside Brazilian great Ronaldo. Lionel Messi vs. Argelia Copa del Mundo 2026pic.twitter.com/bh6x9J11qi — Agustín Iseas (@AgustinIseas10) June 17, 2026 The record-equalling moment arrived in the 76th minute. Messi collected the ball near the edge of the area and fired a low finish beyond the goalkeeper to complete his hat-trick. The crowd erupted as the Argentine icon drew level with Klose on 16 World Cup goals. Four minutes later, coach Lionel Scaloni substituted Messi. Fans rose to their feet and applauded as he left the field after one of the finest World Cup performances of his career. The victory gave Argentina an ideal start in Group J as they pursue a second consecutive World Cup title after their dramatic triumph over France in the 2022 final in Qatar. Mbappe and Haaland Also Shine Elsewhere, France opened their campaign with a 3-1 win over Senegal. Kylian Mbappe scored twice and became France’s all-time leading scorer with 58 international goals, moving past Olivier Giroud. “There are still people out there who will criticise him but he is an extraordinary player,” France coach Didier Deschamps said. “Not everything came off for him, but he can win games in one moment.” Norway also enjoyed a winning start. Erling Haaland scored twice in a 4-1 victory over Iraq in Foxborough. The Manchester City striker increased his international tally to 57 goals in just 51 appearances. “You could see that he adapted to the occasion, the occasion wasn’t too big for him,” Norway coach Stale Solbakken said. “I had a good feeling before the game. I had quite a comfortable feeling that he would do it for us today.” With Messi, Mbappe and Haaland all making headlines, the race for World Cup glory and football immortality has begun in spectacular fashion.
50K Followers to Millions: How Vozinha’s Life Changes Overnight
Cape Verde’s FIFA World Cup debut delivered one of the tournament’s biggest surprises on Monday as the African nation held former world champions Spain to a remarkable 0-0 draw, thanks largely to an extraordinary performance by veteran goalkeeper Vozinha. Spain dominated possession and created 27 shots throughout the Group H encounter in Atlanta. Yet they could not find a way past the 40-year-old goalkeeper, who produced a series of crucial saves to secure a historic point for Cape Verde in its first-ever World Cup appearance. As the final whistle blew, the emotion of the moment overwhelmed the goalkeeper. Vozinha fell to the ground near his goal and broke into tears. “I work all my life for this, for this moment, for this dream,” he said after the match. For Cape Verde, the draw represented far more than a single point. It marked a landmark achievement against one of football’s traditional powerhouses and instantly turned Vozinha into one of the faces of the tournament. A Journey Few Thought Would Reach the World Cup Unlike many World Cup stars who emerge through elite academies, Vozinha’s path to football’s biggest stage was long and uncertain. Born in Cape Verde, he did not make his professional debut until the age of 25 with Angolan club Progresso. His career then took him across Moldova, Cyprus, Slovakia and Portugal’s lower leagues. Spain brought tactics. Cape Verde brought Vozinha pic.twitter.com/RHiMtS3vRZ — Natch (@dammies100) June 16, 2026 Today, he plays for Portuguese club Chaves, far from the spotlight enjoyed by Europe’s biggest stars. He joined Cape Verde’s national team setup in 2012 and admitted in previous years that retirement crossed his mind more than once. However, persistence and determination kept him going. His nickname also reflects his unusual journey. “Vozinha,” which translates to “grandmother” in Portuguese, began as a teasing nickname from older teammates. He later embraced the name himself when sharing a similar name with another player created confusion within the squad. Monday’s performance showed why he never gave up. Spain repeatedly tested the goalkeeper through crosses, long-range efforts and close-range opportunities. Time and again, Vozinha responded with calm saves and confident positioning. Overnight Fame and What Comes Next The result transformed Vozinha into an internet sensation almost instantly. Before kickoff, his Instagram account had roughly 50,000 followers. Within hours of the draw, that figure surged beyond 1.5 million. Reports later indicated the number was rapidly approaching six million as football fans around the world celebrated his performance. The result also leaves Group H wide open. Spain will remain in Atlanta to face Saudi Arabia on June 21 before concluding their group campaign against Uruguay in Mexico. Cape Verde will travel to Miami for a clash with Uruguay on the same day before meeting Saudi Arabia in Houston on June 26. Regardless of what happens next, Vozinha has already written one of the most compelling stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His journey from football obscurity to global recognition serves as a reminder that some of the game’s greatest moments belong not to superstars, but to dreamers who refuse to quit.
Meet the Eight Players Over 40 Heading to the FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a record number of players aged 40 or older, highlighting how elite footballers continue to extend their careers through fitness, nutrition and sports science. Eight players aged 40 and above will compete in the tournament across Canada, Mexico and the United States. That total exceeds the combined number from the previous 22 World Cups. The list includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Edin Dzeko, Manuel Neuer and Guillermo Ochoa. Their presence challenges the idea that top-level football belongs only to younger players. Portugal captain Ronaldo, now 41, will make history as the first player to appear in six FIFA World Cups. Mexico goalkeeper Ochoa, 40, will also reach that milestone. Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who turns 39 later this month, remains one of football’s most influential figures. He led Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar and now aims to add another chapter to his remarkable career. Veteran Stars Chasing More History Ronaldo arrives with a record few players can match. He has scored in each of the five World Cups he has played. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez believes experience remains Ronaldo’s greatest asset. “None have lived what he has in the number of decisive games he’s played over his career,” Martinez said. “He also brings experience in decisive moments that nobody else in the squad can match.” Croatia’s Modric and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Dzeko also have an opportunity to make history. Both players could join a very exclusive group of over-40 World Cup goalscorers. Only Cameroon’s Roger Milla has achieved that feat. He scored at the age of 42 during the 1994 World Cup in the United States and remains the oldest scorer in tournament history. More than three decades later, his record still stands. Goalkeepers Continue to Defy Age Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon will be the oldest player at the tournament. At 43, he could become the second-oldest player ever to appear in a World Cup match. Only Egypt’s Essam El Hadary ranks ahead of him. The Egyptian goalkeeper played at 45 during the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Gordon is likely to serve as backup to Angus Gunn. However, even a single appearance would secure his place in the record books. Germany’s Manuel Neuer, who helped his country win the 2014 World Cup, hopes to recover from a calf injury before Germany’s opening match against Curaçao. Cape Verde’s Vozinha and Uruguay’s Fernando Muslera, who turns 40 during the tournament, complete the group of veteran players. Recent injuries have affected both Messi and Ronaldo. Even so, neither player’s legacy faces any threat. Their achievements already rank among the greatest in football history. The 2026 World Cup now offers one more opportunity for football’s elder statesmen to prove they can still perform on the sport’s biggest stage.
