Lionel Messi and Argentina are back to defend their crown and showed it in style, as Messi tied the World Cup's all-time goals record with a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria in both nations' 2026 World Cup openers in the Heartland of America on Tuesday.

The U.S. men's national team begins World Cup play hoping its defense can find its footing in time for it's opening game against Paraguay on June 12.

Argentina are not among the top few favourites at the 2026 World Cup, but La Albiceleste still boast world-class talent.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Qatar’s World Cup defeat to Canada on Thursday went so awry that goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada appeared to break down in tears after the final whistle, receiving comfort from a teammate and Canada’s Jacob Schaffelburg.

South Africa coach Hugo Broos wants to appeal midfielder Themba Zwane’s three-match ban for a red card at the World Cup, citing Lionel Messi in his reasoning

World Cup contenders England beat Croatia 4-2 in the best match of the tournament so far. The outstanding Jude Bellingham and substitute Marcus Rashford made sure of the win with impressive second-half goals.

GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) — It’s number-crunching time when it comes to formations at the World Cup. Every team starts with a goalkeeper in front of the net, but then it’s up to the 48 coaches to try to arrange their lineups to optimize their players and match up effectively with opponents.