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Argentina could face disciplinary action from FIFA after players displayed a banner claiming the Falkland Islands for Argentina following their World Cup semi-final win over England. The incident has sparked political reactions, with Downing Street and UK politicians calling for investigation.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said he will not mix politics with football ahead of the World Cup semi-final against England. The match revives a historic rivalry intensified by the Falklands War. Scaloni urged respect, while Argentina's vice-president struck a different tone.
England captain Harry Kane said playing golf with US President Donald Trump was a 'surreal' experience. The striker met Trump in Florida 18 months ago and praised the president's golf game.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hinted at an extra bank holiday if England win the World Cup. The final is on 19 July, and Starmer is expected to step down the next day. A bank holiday would likely be on 24 July.
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said he 'danced a happy dance' after Iran's elimination from the World Cup. Iran faced travel restrictions and visa issues, with their coach calling the team the 'most oppressed' at the tournament amid US-Iran tensions.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily to discuss the USMNT's World Cup start, fan experiences, and potential challenges of President Trump attending the final. He also touched on the Knicks' championship win, Andy Burnham's election, and his love for cricket and chess.
England's Reece James described lifting the Club World Cup for Chelsea alongside President Donald Trump as a 'strange moment'.
At a friendly match between Iran and New Zealand in Los Angeles, Iranian dissidents protested against the Islamic Republic, waving pre-revolutionary flags and chanting for regime change, highlighting deep divisions within the Iranian diaspora.
Iran striker Mehdi Taremi says political tensions have undermined the joy of the World Cup. The team faced visa issues, relocated their base camp to Tijuana, and will play under the scrutiny of a large Iranian diaspora in Los Angeles, where protests are expected.
The expanded World Cup, now featuring 48 teams, faces criticism for its increased politicisation and financial burden. Critics argue that the tournament's growth compromises competitive integrity and strains host nations.
