The arguments over who is the greatest footballer of all time will rage on until the end of days, but you would have to go back to Diego Maradona or Pele to find a player with a similar individual influence on World Cup success.
Luka Modri's illustrious international career concluded with Croatia's dramatic 2-1 defeat to Portugal in the World Cup. Despite a valiant effort, Croatia's hopes were dashed by a late Gonalo Ramos goal and a disallowed equaliser, marking an emotional exit for the 40-year-old football icon. Cristiano Ronaldo shared a poignant moment with his former teammate, acknowledging Modri's remarkable legacy.
Former Italy international Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from contention for the national team's head coach position after his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet drew significant criticism and opposition from Italian football officials and lawmakers.
FIFA has approved a rule change allowing Afghan women footballers, many exiled since the Taliban's return, to play official international matches in FIFA competitions.
Former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund boss Juergen Klopp has been appointed as the head coach of the German national football team on a four-year contract, following Julian Nagelsmann's departure and a series of disappointing World Cup performances.
Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj shared an emotional tribute to football icon Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal's exit from the FIFA World Cup. Siraj, a long-time admirer, stated that Ronaldo's greatness transcends a single game and thanked him for inspiring millions globally, including himself, often using Ronaldo's mindset and celebration as motivation.
Former Indian football captain I.M. Vijayan has declined offers from multiple political parties to contest in the upcoming elections, but would consider a Rajya Sabha nomination.
Spain's Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, Unai Simon won the Golden Glove, and Pau Cubarsi was named the Best Young Player, leaving Lionel Messi without another personal honour despite his impressive World Cup performance.
It happened in 2017, two years after Scaloni ended his playing career. De la Fuente, then in charge of Spain's youth teams, was among the figures who helped guide a recently retired player taking his first steps towards management.
Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup campaign concluded with an emotional defeat for Portugal against Spain.
Lionel Messi made history by becoming the oldest outfield player to start a FIFA World Cup final at 39 years and 25 days, while Spain's Lamine Yamal became the third-youngest player ever to start the tournament's showpiece match, highlighting a generational clash.
Cristiano Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, has indicated that the FIFA World Cup 2026 could be the Portugal captain's final international tournament, referring to it as his "last dance" with the national team. She clarified her comments specifically referred to his Portugal career, not overall retirement.
England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is set to face Lionel Messi for the first time in his career during Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, an occasion he described as carrying a 'sense of history' given his long-standing admiration for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Manolo Marquez, a highly successful coach in Indian football, has been appointed as the new head coach for Mumbai City FC on a one-year contract for the 2026-2027 season. Marquez brings a wealth of experience, including leading Hyderabad FC to an ISL Cup title and coaching the Indian national team.
Lionel Messi will face England for the first time in his career when Argentina meet the Three Lions in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, ending a 20-year wait for one of football's most anticipated match-ups.
Veteran Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh, despite numerous accolades including Olympic medals, is determined to win a World Cup medal before concluding his illustrious career after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
This year's WAGs include influencers, models, actors, and lifelong companions whose own careers and stories are drawing as much attention as the football itself.
The end of coach Didier Deschamps' Midas-like reign turned into a Tantalus torment as France suffered a comprehensive World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain before losing 6-4 to England in a wild third-place playoff, but those disappointments will not tarnish his legacy.
Lionel Messi's unparalleled influence extends beyond his on-field performance, transforming opponents into admirers. This phenomenon, dubbed the 'Messi effect,' sees rival players expressing awe and seeking mementos after matches, highlighting his profound impact on the current generation of footballers.
South Africa international midfielder Jayden Adams, who played a key role in his country's 2026 World Cup campaign, has died at the age of 25, with no cause of death immediately provided.
The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is set to kick off in New Jersey, with fans flocking to the stadium despite high ticket prices and enhanced security measures, as both teams vie for the coveted title.
Punjab FC has announced the double signing of forward Gurkirat Singh and defender Nishchal Chandan, bolstering their squad for the 2026-27 Indian Super League season. Both players have signed two-year agreements, bringing significant experience and talent to the Shers.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that the current World Cup will be his last, expressing no regrets about his illustrious career.
Didier Deschamps, who led France to their second world title in 2018 and established them as international football's most consistent major-tournament force, will be remembered for his unprecedented legacy despite recent semi-final defeats.
Punjab FC has announced the signing of Mohammed Inam, a talented footballer from Jammu and Kashmir, on a two-year contract. Inam, who previously captained Real Kashmir FC, brings experience from the Indian Football League, I-League qualifiers, and the Durand Cup to his new club.
Spain captain Rodri has expressed his team's ambition and hunger ahead of the World Cup final against Argentina. He highlighted Spain's gradual growth and well-rounded team play, while acknowledging Argentina's competitive spirit and the formidable presence of Lionel Messi. Rodri anticipates a physical battle and draws inspiration from Spain's 2010 World Cup victory.
Former Nigeria forward Michael Eneramo died on Friday after collapsing on the pitch during a friendly match in Kaduna. The 40-year-old, who won 10 caps for the Super Eagles, appeared to have suffered cardiac arrest.
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football's greatest players, celebrated his 39th birthday. The article chronicles his journey from humble beginnings in Rosario to becoming a global superstar, highlighting his unparalleled success at Barcelona, his international triumphs with Argentina including the 2022 World Cup, his individual accolades like eight Ballon d'Or awards, and his current impact with Inter Miami, cementing his legacy as a record-breaking legend.
The World Cup final offers football's grandest stage a deliciously odd pairing: Argentina, all pulse, fire and Lionel Messi, against Spain, the European champions who appear to treat chaos as an administrative error and have turned control into something close to an art form.
Legendary German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international football following Germany's unexpected exit from the World Cup. His comeback for the tournament, necessitated by injuries to other players, ended in disappointment as Germany lost to Paraguay in a penalty shootout in the Round of 32. Neuer concludes his illustrious international career with 128 caps, a 2014 World Cup title, and a legacy as one of the sport's greatest goalkeepers.
FIFA has strongly defended Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after US President Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a controversial red card shown to US striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso said he wants to see greater hunger and a desire to improve from his players as he prepares for his first Premier League season in charge.
Spain take a 36-match unbeaten run into their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against France, with Lamine Yamal calling it the biggest match of his career as La Roja chase Italy's all-time record.
Messi, who said he was thoroughly enjoying the ride at his sixth World Cup and giving no thought to retirement, was looking forward to locking horns with 2010 champions Spain in New Jersey on Sunday.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper from Batala in Punjab has been one of India's standout performers at the ongoing FIH Junior World Cup
Former India captain Subrata Paul asserts that goalkeepers were instrumental in the success of teams at the recent FIFA World Cup, often outshining attacking players. He highlights specific goalkeepers like Vozinha, Unai Simon, Emiliano Martinez, and Thibaut Courtois for their exceptional performances and discusses the evolving role of modern goalkeepers in tactical play.
The political drama 'Article 370' was the biggest winner at the 72nd National Film Awards, securing the best feature film honour, with its lead star Yami Gautam named best actress. Mammootty and Kartik Aaryan shared the best actor award for 'Bramayugam' and 'Chandu Champion' respectively.
Thousands of fans across Spain erupted in joyous celebrations, dancing in the streets, setting off fireworks, and launching red flares, after La Roja secured their second World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Argentina.
Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has made three changes to his starting XI for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, bringing Reece James and Djed Spence into the defence, while Argentina's Lionel Scaloni makes one switch, with Giuliano Simeone replacing Rodrigo De Paul.
