Tag · 25 articles
Just Fontaine scored 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup, a record that still stands. He borrowed boots, was not first choice, and received an air rifle instead of a Golden Boot. Modern stars like Mbappe and Messi chase his mark at the 2026 tournament.
From the 'Hand of God' to red cards and political tension, Argentina and England's World Cup rivalry is one of football's most storied. With Lionel Messi set to face England for the first time, BBC Sport revisits six decades of controversy and iconic moments.
As the 2026 World Cup reaches its first rest day and quarter-finals begin, test your knowledge of the teams that have appeared most often in the last eight. From regulars to one-time participants, how many can you name?
England's 3-2 win over Mexico in the last 16 sets up a quarter-final against Norway. Can you name all 10 previous teams England have faced in World Cup quarter-finals?
England must overcome not only a passionate Mexican nation but also the weight of history as they face Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium for a World Cup quarter-final spot. The team arrived late and must adapt to altitude and a raucous atmosphere.
Switzerland secured their first knockout win at a FIFA World Cup in 72 years, defeating Algeria 2-0 in Vancouver. Goalscorer Dan Ndoye and defender Manuel Akanji reflect on the historic achievement and look ahead to the Round of 16.
Switzerland defeated Algeria 2-0 in Vancouver, ending an 88-year wait for a World Cup knockout stage victory. Goals from Ndoye and Embolo secured the historic win.
After 96 years, France and Sweden will finally meet in a World Cup match. The two European heavyweights have avoided each other since 1930, despite both being regulars. They face off in the round of 32 on June 30.
Luka Modrić delivered another assist in a historic World Cup moment for Croatia, becoming the oldest assist provider in tournament history across five World Cups.
As Tunisia and Japan play the 1,000th World Cup match, FIFA recalls ten classic games, including Portugal's comeback against DPR Korea in 1966 and Italy's penalty shootout win over France in 1982.
New Zealand defender Tyler Bindon made his World Cup debut against Iran, creating history as the first mother-son duo to play in the tournament. His mother, Jenny Bindon, represented New Zealand in two Women's World Cups and two Olympics.
Cristiano Ronaldo set a new record as the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup match, at 41 years and 132 days.
Jordan have scored their first-ever goal in their first-ever FIFA World Cup match.
Kylian Mbappé has scored his 57th goal for France, tying Olivier Giroud's record as the nation's all-time leading scorer.
Miroslav Klose and Lionel Messi are the joint all-time top scorers in FIFA World Cup history with 16 goals each. The list includes legends like Ronaldo, Pele, Gerd Muller, and Just Fontaine.
Jordan makes their World Cup debut in 2026 after decades of near misses and strategic overhauls. The team faces Austria and possibly Argentina, with a journey marked by English coaches Ray Wilkins and Harry Redknapp, and a shift toward long-term development.
Cabo Verde have secured their first-ever point in a FIFA World Cup match, marking a historic achievement for the nation.
The original Jules Rimet Trophy was replaced after Brazil won it permanently in 1970, then stolen and melted down. The current trophy, designed by Silvio Gazzaniga, has been awarded since 1974 and is never permanently given to any nation.
Scotland achieved their first goal and first win at the World Cup since 1998. Fans are voting for the Man of the Match.
Craig Brown, Scotland manager at the 1998 World Cup, recalls the team's preparations including a player walkout, a training session with Rod Stewart, a call from Sean Connery, and the famous line before facing Brazil: 'They're shitting themselves!'
