
Messi breaks World Cup scoring record with 17th goal
Lionel Messi set a new World Cup individual scoring record with his 17th goal in Argentina's group stage match against Austria, surpassing Miroslav Klose's previous mark.
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Lionel Messi set a new World Cup individual scoring record with his 17th goal in Argentina's group stage match against Austria, surpassing Miroslav Klose's previous mark.

Lionel Messi became the all-time leading World Cup scorer by netting his 17th tournament goal during Argentina's match against Austria.

Lewis Ferguson has emerged as Scotland's most influential player at the World Cup, filling the void left by Billy Gilmour's injury. The Bologna midfielder's defensive work rate and unselfish play have been crucial in Group C, setting up a key role against Brazil.

Lionel Messi missed a penalty against Austria that would have made him the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer.

Four players have had their jerseys torn during the 2026 World Cup, all wearing Puma kits. The tears occurred when players were pulled by opponents, raising questions about the durability of Puma's Ultraweave fabric.

During World Cup pre-match ceremonies, the flags of Saudi Arabia and Iraq are not laid on the ground due to religious script. Saudi Arabia's flag bears the Shahada, while Iraq's carries the Takbir, both considered sacred in Islam. Treating them like ordinary cloth is seen as disrespectful.

A video piece explores the multinational nature of the World Cup, highlighting how lesser-resourced countries benefit from elite coaching by wealthy Western European nations, making the tournament more unpredictable.

Despite a higher rate of VAR interventions per game at the 2026 World Cup than in the Premier League, fans perceive it as less intrusive. FIFA's refereeing philosophy, led by Pierluigi Collina, emphasizes a higher threshold for fouls and fewer stoppages, aligning with Premier League standards.

Thomas Tuchel's England team marks a shift from Gareth Southgate's player-first approach to a system-first philosophy. Tuchel left out stars like Foden and Palmer for the World Cup, prioritizing tactical fit over individual brilliance, while Southgate built systems around his best players.

A former manager shares how he watches the World Cup both as a fan and an analyst, discussing scouting players like Yan Diomande and Christ Inao Oulai, and why live viewing remains essential despite data availability.

Noni Madueke's journey from a controversial £50m signing to a World Cup starter for England highlights a dramatic season. The Arsenal winger helped the Gunners win their first Premier League title in 22 years and started England's World Cup opener against Croatia, winning a penalty in a 4-2 victory.

Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda may depart this summer after attracting attention from Premier League and Bundesliga clubs, with his World Cup performances boosting interest.

Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku faces criticism for prioritizing his child's birth over World Cup duty, sparking widespread support from players, unions, and experts. The incident highlights the lack of paternity leave in men's football.

BBC Sport Scotland pundits Neil McCann and Leanne Crichton are in the United States covering the Women's World Cup. They are ready to answer your questions about Scotland's campaign, including their chances of reaching the knockout stage after a win over Haiti and a loss to Morocco.

This year's FIFA World Cup has seen two new players enter the top 10 list of youngest goalscorers in tournament history.

Four elite strikers—Messi, Mbappe, Haaland, Kane—scored multiple goals in recent friendlies, raising questions about defending them. Former Wales defender Ashley Williams analyzes each player's style and suggests defensive approaches.

Ana Candida Evora watched her son Vozinha play for Cape Verde at the World Cup for the first time, as the team held Uruguay to a 2-2 draw. The goalkeeper's Instagram following surged from 50,000 to over 15 million during the tournament.

Mick McDermott, a Belfast native, is at his second World Cup as part of Ghana's coaching staff. His career has spanned continents, from a US college scholarship to roles in the Middle East, Ireland, and back to Rhode Island, where Ghana is based for the tournament.

Spain delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in the World Cup, while Cape Verde surprised Uruguay with a draw. The performances of Lamine Yamal and Cape Verde's giant-killing run are discussed.

Test your football knowledge with BBC Sport's daily 'Who Am I?' quiz. Guess the World Cup star using as few clues as possible to score points. New player every day.