Author: Eternity Lab

Cape Verde won hearts across the world with its inspiring run at the 2026 World Cup. The island country with a population of under 600,000 people — located within an archipelago off the western coast of Africa — fielded a team of players who never backed down even against the top-ranked team in the tournament.

During the group stage, they took points off previous World Cup-winning nations Spain and Uruguay, before a draw with Saudi Arabia clinched Cape Verde’s spot in the knockout rounds. The magic continued, as Cape Verde went blow for blow with defending champion Argentina, matching its first goal in regulation, and another in extra time when Sidny Lopes Cabral delivered the goal of the tournament.

Ultimately, Argentina found a winner, but Cape Verde won, too. The country and its players will be remembered for its courage, for being inspirational underdogs.

So what’s next for the players who led Cape Verde to its first knockout stage appearance? 

Vozinha became a viral sensation due to his heroic performances for Cape Verde, appearing on “FIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden” and increasing his social media following by 20 million in the span of two weeks. Vozinha is currently a free agent, giving him the opportunity to cash in on his newfound notoriety.

Vozinha’s Best Moments 2026 FIFA World Cup™ 🇨🇻

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Lopes Cabral endeared himself to fans when he scored the goal of the tournament in extra time against Argentina before running into the grandstands to celebrate with Cape Verde supporters. He secured a €10 million transfer to Turkish side Trabzonspor after spending last season in Portugal with SL Benfica. 

Cape Verde pulls even AGAIN vs Argentina Sidny Lopes Cabral curls in STUNNING goal in extra time

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Pina etched his name into Cape Verde’s history books when he scored its first-ever World Cup goal against Uruguay. Pina has played for Russian side Krasnador since 2022, and signed a contract extension with the club in 2024 to keep him in Russia through June 2027.

Kevin Pina Scores Cape Verde’s First FIFA World Cup™ Goal

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Deroy Duarte made his mark on the tournament by scoring the equalizer against Argentina to force extra time. Duarte plays in Bulgaria with Ludogorets. He played in the Netherlands for the first eight seasons of his professional career before moving to the club in 2024. He is under contract through 2028.

Cape Verde LEVELS score vs Argentina Deroy Duarte finds equalizer in second half

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Cape Verde wouldn’t have qualified for the knockout round without Hélio Varela, who scored the equalizer against Uruguay in the group stage. Varela plays for Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Cape Verde’s Hélio Varela scores equalizer for first career international goal | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Ryan Mendes captained Cape Verde at its first-ever World Cup and is its all-time caps leader. Mendes is currently a free agent after spending last season with Turkish side Iğdır.

Roberto “Pico” Lopes anchored Cape Verde’s defense at the World Cup by playing every possible minute of the tournament. He captains the Shamrock Rovers in the League of Ireland Premier Division and is entering his 10th year with the club.

Moreira held his own on defense against some of the best attacking players in the world. Moreira plays in the United States with MLS side Columbus Crew and was a key figure in their MLS Cup (2023) and Leagues Cup (2024) title runs. He will be a free agent at the end of the season.

Jovane Cabral was a key player for Cape Verde during the tournament, playing 214 minutes and starting against Uruguay and Spain. Cabral plays for Estrela da Amadora in the Portuguese Liga.

Cape Verde’s Best Moments 2026 FIFA World Cup™ 🇨🇻

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New users can use BetMGM bonus code FOXSPORTS to unlock up to $1,500 in bonuses as France continues its World Cup campaign in the round of 16 against Paraguay.

Paraguay is coming off an unforgettable upset against Germany in penalties. Now, they face their toughest test yet against a French squad built for a deep World Cup run.

France has netted at least three goals in every game this tournament and showing everyone why they are the favorite to win. Kylian Mbappé has netted six goals by himself leading the way for France. Ousmane Dembélé has four goals of his own. 

For new users, you can claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets when you sign up with bonus code ‘FOXSPORTS’. 

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France vs. Paraguay Odds

*Odds are subject to change*

• France: -1100
• Paraguay: +725

Game Goalscorer Odds

*Odds are subject to change*

Player	Team	First	Anytime	Last
Kylian Mbappé	France	+165	-225	+170
Ousmane Dembélé	France	+400	+130	+400
Michael Olise	France	+475	+165	+500
Gabriel Avalos	Paraguay	+1150	+500	+1150
Julio Enciso	Paraguay	+1200	+500	+1200

How to Watch France vs. Paraguay

• When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET
• Where: Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports, FOX Sports App

Players to Watch in France vs. Paraguay match

Michael Olise has been one of the tournament’s premier playmakers, tallying five assists while orchestrating France’s attack. His vision and creativity will be vital in breaking down Paraguay’s disciplined defensive shape.

Kylian Mbappé continues to lead France’s attack with six goals and two assists through four matches. His pace, movement, and finishing make him the biggest threat as France looks to reach the quarterfinals.

Matías Galarza has been one of Paraguay’s standout performers, contributing goals, assists, and strong midfield play throughout the tournament. He will be central to Paraguay’s hopes of creating chances on the counterattack.

Julio Enciso provides Paraguay with its most dangerous attacking spark. His ability to drive forward, create opportunities, and capitalize on limited chances will be crucial if Paraguay is to pull off another upset.

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The stars aren’t the only thing to keep an eye on in the highly anticipated clash between Norway and Brazil at New York New Jersey Stadium in the World Cup’s round of 16. The weather report isn’t far behind. 

And as both teams prepare to square off on Sunday, July 5 at 4 p.m. ET for a chance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals, all eyes will also be on any changes in the weather.

Brazil is playing some of the best soccer at the tournament, with Vinícius Júnior – three goals and an assist through four games – leading a potent attack that is eyeing the team’s sixth World Cup title in history. Erling Haaland, who is firmly in the mix for the Golden Boot award with five goals in three matches, looks to lead Norway and his Viking Row comrades to what would be a notable upset. 

What Is The Weather Forecast For Brazil vs. Norway?

According to FOX Weather, the forecast for the game is 83 degrees with a chance of scattered thunderstorms. The ROWI (Risk of Weather Impact) is high. 

In the event there is a lightning strike, there is a mandatory shelter-in-place, with teams returning to the locker room. 

What Are The Weather Delay Protocols At The World Cup?

Play is suspended immediately if lightning is detected within an ​eight-mile radius ​of a ⁠stadium and can only resume after 30 minutes have passed without ​a further occurrence.

Like in other sports, a countdown starts after lightning, and there would need to be no other lightning in the area after those conditions before the match can safely be back on. Any new lightning detection ​resets ⁠the countdown, meaning delays can stretch for several hours if thunderstorms persist. 

FIFA has no fixed ⁠time ​limit after which a ​match must be abandoned, with each situation assessed on a ​case-by-case basis.

Has There Been A Weather Delay At the World Cup?

The France vs. Iraq group stage game in Philadelphia on June 23 was suspended mid-match for two hours due to weather. France was leading Iraq 1-0 when the suspension occurred, with Les Bleus winning 3-0 once play resumed. 

The Mexico vs. Ecuador round of 32 game in Mexico City on June 30 was delayed for one hour due to weather. Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 once the action got underway. 

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The famous Mexico City Stadium (née Estadio Azteca) will add another historic game to its resume on Sunday: England vs. Mexico in the 2026 World Cup.

It will be a daunting matchup for the Three Lions, who have played their first three games in Dallas, Foxborough, Mass., New Jersey and Atlanta. Those places don’t compare to Mexico City, where they will face an altitude of more than 7,000 feet.

Meanwhile, Mexico has played three of its four games at the hallowed Azteca — called Mexico City Stadium during the World Cup — winning all three by multiple goals for a combined 7-0 scoreline.

Mexico has not lost a competitive home game at the stadium since September 2013 and is 8-2-0 (win-draw-loss) in the 10 World Cup games that it has played there. Overall, El Tri are 70-17-2 at the stadium.

One country that is extremely familiar with playing there: the United States of America. The Americans have an all-time 1-4-9 record at the stadium, including three draws and one win in their last four games there.

Three U.S. soccer veterans — Bob Bradley, Maurice Edu and Walker Zimmerman — told us what it’s like to play at the Azteca ahead of the stadium’s final game of this World Cup.

Bradley coached the U.S. there in a 2009 qualifier that saw the Americans take an early lead through a Charlie Davies goal, only to lose 2-1. Edu started in the only USA win ever at the Azteca in August 2012, while Zimmerman started there in a 2022 World Cup qualifier that ended 0-0.

What was it like arriving at the stadium?

Bradley: It’s an awesome stadium. Every time you play a qualifier there, everything shuts down for the day. I think this stadium is filled by the time you can get into the stadium and look around. People are coming in, and it’s filled even in warmups. So, the players get a sense of everything before the kickoff, so you’re excited to start playing.

Bob Bradley greets Mexico coach Javier Aguirre before a World Cup Qualifying soccer match between the USA and Mexico at Azteco Stadium August 12, 2009, in Mexico City. Aguirre is the current Mexico coach, in his second stint in charge of the team. (Donald Miralle/Getty Images) –>

Edu: I remember when you get to the stadium where the bus drops you off and walk to the locker room, it’s a long, long walk. Along the wall in the hallway, you see photos of these iconic games that have been played at Azteca. You get into the locker room to change, and you start to hear the noise as it gets louder and louder. By the time you’re coming out to warm up, it’s like this deafening buzz.

I always appreciated an atmosphere like that. I love a crazy and passionate environment that has real energy, passion and support. It reminded me of playing at Celtic Park for Rangers in Glasgow. Everyone is screaming at you and wants to steal the shirt off your back.

Angel Reina fights for the ball with Maurice Edu on August 15, 2012. (Miguel Tovar/Getty Images) –>

Zimmerman: We made the mistake of staying at the Four Seasons since it was a nicer hotel even though it was further away from the stadium. So, the day before the game, we went to the Azteca to get a training session in. The bus ride probably took an hour and 45 minutes.

So, the day of the match, we gave ourselves 2 hours with a police escort. I remember pulling up to the stadium, and as soon as we got to the locker room, we had a total of eight minutes to be on the field to warm up because we were so delayed. Guys were getting taped up on the bus, trying to take a nap, get ready as best they could.

Walker Zimmerman reacts to Mexico striker Raul Jimenez during a FIFA World Cup qualifier at Azteca Stadium on March 24, 2022. (Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images) –>

How big of a factor is altitude?

Bradley: Look, 7,000 feet is a lot, and when you play in the middle of the afternoon, it’s also more difficult because you’re also dealing with the sun and the air quality. The way it affects players is mostly with their ability to recover when they make a hard run. 

So, everything in terms of defensive reactions and recovery becomes a little harder. You’re aware of that, and obviously trying to find the right moments to run and be smart. Players have to read the game well so that they are not putting themselves and the team in tough situations where the game gets wide open, which plays into Mexico’s hands when that is the case.

Bob Bradley looks on during the national anthems. (Donald Miralle/Getty Images) –>

Edu: It’s difficult, man. It really is. Those first few sprints in warmups, when you’re getting ready, you’re not really tested. It’s in the game when you’re trying to get on the end of a cross or sprinting into the box, the moment of transition when you turn around and have to sprint back. That’s when you’re really tested and when you really start to feel how much altitude plays into it.

I think the hydration breaks will help now, because a huge part of playing at that altitude is just weathering the first 15 or 20 minutes of that storm.

Zimmerman: They sent us altitude tents about a month before that cycle of international games began, so I actually slept in that next to my wife. We would go up like 500 feet in altitude every night while monitoring our oxygen levels. You wake up, put a monitor on your finger and see how you are doing. I think I did that for about three weeks.

It’s hard to remember whether it actually worked. What I remember from the game is that we were feeling really good, honestly. I don’t remember too many big chances for Mexico, and it went pretty well.

I didn’t notice the altitude too much because even if it’s tough, what’s the alternative? You sub yourself out? No, you have to dig deep. When you see the other guys around you doing the same, you just kind of keep running through it.

Walker Zimmerman vies for the ball with Mexico’s Erick Gutierrez. (Alfredo Estrella/AFP via Getty Images) –>

What is your lasting memory of playing at the Azteca?

Bradley: One of the best. One of the best. Great atmosphere, great history. And the big challenge when you go there.

Edu: That we won. Although it was a friendly, being in that stadium and being part of that team in a 1-0 win, that’s my lasting memory. I like playing in atmospheres like that where I can help quiet fans down and ultimately get the result. There’s nothing like it.

Zimmerman: I think the stadium is bigger when you’re in it than you realize. I don’t think I was aware of the sheer size of it until you’re in it. You’re just kind of driving around Mexico City and then boom, there it is.

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On the Fourth of July, in front of 72,000 fans deep in the heart of Texas, Morocco reminded everyone that surviving is a skill. Canada threw everything at the Atlas Lions for 45 minutes, and it looked like the co-hosts’ fairytale had another chapter. Then Azzedine Ounahi happened twice.

Morocco won 3-0 to book a quarterfinal date with France or Paraguay, and Canada’s historic run ends in the Round of 16 — with heads high and a country converted.

Here are four takeaways from Houston:

1. Morocco Looked Scared – Then Had An Epiphany

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

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Let’s not sugarcoat the first half: Morocco was rattled. Canada pressed into oblivion, racking up 13 touches in the Moroccan box to Morocco’s one at the other end. Jonathan David tested Yassine Bounou early, Tani Oluwaseyi went one-on-one and was denied, and the loss of Ismael Saibari to injury after 22 minutes only deepened the panic. Seven yellow cards before halftime tell you how frantic it got.

So what changed? The break, mostly. Morocco came out calmer, stopped forcing passes through Canada’s press, and let the game breathe. Five minutes into the second half, Ounahi drilled home from the top of the box off Achraf Hakimi’s delivery, and suddenly the pressure flipped. From there, Morocco played smartly: they sat in, stayed compact, and killed Canada on the counter. It wasn’t a comeback on the scoreboard. It was a comeback of the mind.

2. Canada’s Deepest Run Ever, But The What-Ifs Sting

(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

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This was already the greatest World Cup in Canadian history. A draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto for their first-ever World Cup point. A 6-0 demolition of Qatar featuring a Jonathan David hat-trick. A first-ever knockout win, courtesy of Stephen Eustaquio’s stoppage-time thunderbolt against South Africa.

But the what-ifs will linger. Alphonso Davies, still not fully fit after his brutal injury run, missed the entire group stage and started today on the bench (and never came into the game). Ismael Kone’s tournament ended in horror in Vancouver, fracturing his tibia and fibula against Qatar. And David, so lethal against the Qataris, reverted to his Juventus form when it mattered most — a tactical foul, a yellow card, and a free kick sailed over the bar. Against an opponent this good, your stars have to show up — Canada’s couldn’t.

3. Ounahi, Welcome Back To The World Stage

(Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)

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Luis Enrique famously asked in 2022: “My God, where does this guy come from?” Four years later, the Girona midfielder is still making people ask. His first was pure filth — a strike from the top of the penalty arc that kissed the bottom corner. His second was pure poise, racing onto Brahim Diaz’s touch on the counter and finishing like a striker. It’s the first World Cup brace by a Moroccan since Salaheddine Bassir buried two against Scotland in 1998.

Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi Scores BRACE in Round of 16 vs Canada | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Morocco needed it because the Saibari news looms large. The new Bayern Munich signing — Morocco’s top scorer at this tournament, who netted in every group game and converted the decisive penalty against the Netherlands — limped off clutching his hamstring. If he’s done, someone else has to carry the scoring load in the quarters. Ounahi just volunteered.

4. Cry If You Want, Canada. Then Smile.

(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

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Canada fought valiantly to the end, and there’s no shame in falling to a team that made a World Cup semifinal four years ago. The bigger picture is optimistic. This was a nation that hosted World Cup matches on home soil for the first time, packed Toronto and Vancouver, and turned a hockey country into a soccer one for a month.

And the foundation is real. Jesse Marsch has built something coherent and brave — a team that pressed Morocco into a first-half crisis. The core is young: Moise Bombito, Ismael Kone, Davies (still just 25). And David should be in his prime. Canadian football has never been higher. In 2030, nobody will be calling them a cute story. They’ll be calling them a problem.

Canada vs Morocco Extended Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 16

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Let me take you back to March 2017 at the Under-17 South American championship in Rancagua, south of Santiago in Chile. Brazil’s Under-17 team was facing Colombia in the penultimate match of the South American championship as both aimed to qualify for the U-17 World Cup. 

The teenage squad of the Seleção won convincingly with a 3-0 result (thus eventually winning the tournament and qualification for the aforementioned World Cup) but of all the future stars on the pitch, of all the talent, it was a 16-year-old phenom from Flamengo who had stolen the headlines. 

Vinícius Júnior scored a brace in that match against Colombia and the first goal was a piece of art as he lobbed the goalkeeper from outside the box with no hesitation. It was just the beginning of the magic we are now so accustomed to. 

Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior as a young star back in 2017. (Photo by MARTIN BERNETTI / AFP via Getty Images)

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Consequently, he won the awards for top scorer and player of the tournament and a few months later, Real Madrid agreed to sign the young prodigy for nearly €50 million, the second most expensive transfer of a player in the history of Brazilian football (behind only Neymar). He would eventually join Madrid in July 2018 after his 18th birthday. 

The years have gone by and Vini has won numerous trophies and accolades with the club, including three league titles and two Champions League trophies. But for Brazil, it has been a different story. He only has a runner-up medal at Copa América in 2021 to his name, as he wasn’t part of the winning squad for 2019 due to an ankle ligament injury that forced him to miss the tournament. In 2024, after a strong start in the U.S., he was suspended for the quarterfinal loss to Uruguay and once again, his dream of silverware for Brazil disappeared. 

Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior at the 2026 World Cup. (Photo by Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images)

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At the World Cup in 2022, Vinícius was a starter in all but one of Brazil’s five matches and scored his first World Cup goal as part of the team’s 4-1 victory over South Korea in the Round of 16. But the Seleção eventually lost in the quarterfinal stage to Croatia after a penalty shootout.

So the drought continues for the five-time champions. Brazil hasn’t won this esteemed trophy since 2002, when Vinícius was just two years old. And he knows it’s not just about winning. It’s about winning beautifully.

Pele and Brazil winning the 1970 World Cup. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

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The 1970 World Cup victory in Mexico, for example, where Pele – alongside Jairzinho, Gérson, Tostão and Rivellino — won in perfect fashion, as well as painting masterpieces of creativity on the pitch that led to a scintillating 4-1 victory over Italy in the final. Or in 2002, when Ronaldo “O Fenomeno” Nazario, one of my heroes as a teenager, with the likes of Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Cafu, also won every match, including the final over Germany and earning redemption after losing to France four years earlier.  

Ronaldo of Brazil after winning the 2002 World Cup. (Photo by Andreas Rentz/Bongarts/Getty Images)

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Vini is on a mission to write another page in Brazilian history, after so much disappointment and criticism, including numerous instances of unwarranted and despicable racial abuse and beratement. But he has persevered and danced his way into success and the Round of 16 of the World Cup. 

And so here we are. Another step toward destiny awaits in New Jersey, a skip and a jump from the site of Pelé’s final match in 1977 when the New York Cosmos faced Santos at the former home of the New York Giants. 

The question is: will the music keep playing for him after Sunday, and can Brazil finally break the 24-year drought? 

The Importance of The Ancelotti-Vinícius Relationship

There is a sense that, slowly but surely, that Vinícius – under the tutelage of Carlo Ancelotti – is finally finding form and identity. So far, he has been magnificent, with four goals and one assist, but more than that — he is a threat against the opponent every time he heads towards goal. 

Carlo Ancelotti has a special relationship with Vinícius Junior. (Photo by Hannah Peters – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Sunday’s contest against Erling Haaland and Norway will not be a contest where Brazil will look as the outright favorite. It might have the odds in its favor and, historically, it will have an edge. But Norway, at its strongest, is extremely well coached and with the likes of Haaland, Martin Odegaard and Antonio Nusa—it can definitely become a headache on Sunday. 

I have seen both play at this tournament and they equally offer strengths and weaknesses. The fans also play a massive factor and with Norway, the “Viking Row” has become the 12th man steering the team to strong victories.

Erling Haaland and Norway will be formidable opponents. (Getty)

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But here is where the relationship between Vinícius and Ancelotti becomes a factor. The Italian manager knows Vinícius well from his days in Madrid, helping him find his own identity and self-worth in a team full of superstars. He also made him more prominent in a central role and allowed him to see how he can be a threat from out wide and as a more central attacker.

In fact, per Opta, he has the most carries into the opponent’s box (18) than anyone else in the tournament and has the most xG of any player (3.87) and attempted the second-most shots on target (10). Numbers aside, this has been about Ancelotti molding a leader and a humble teammate. Someone who will do everything to drive his team to victory. 

Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior scores TWICE before the break against Scotland | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Vinícius knows that a lot rests on his shoulders because he is now a creative centerpiece for Brazil and even with Neymar in the squad, it is Vinícius who must take Brazil to the promised land once again.

This has also been a long journey for Vinícius, who has been in the spotlight for more than a decade, and it’s incredible to sometimes remember he is still only 25. But none of this matters to him, because he knows Sunday’s match is the most important of his international career.   

We will see. All I know is that if Brazil wants to be back on July 19, it needs the very best of Vinícius Júnior. 

World Cup Related Stories

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Warren Barton experienced the full spectrum of human emotions Wednesday while watching England play DR Congo. Elation, nervousness, panic, frustration, relief, pride and everything in between. 

The former England defender, who’s now a FOX Sports World Cup match analyst, was watching on the edge of his seat from Dallas. By the seventh minute of the match, his beloved Three Lions were down 1-0 and remained behind for the next 68 minutes. Dreams of it coming home were evaporating until Harry Kane found the back of the net twice before the final whistle. 

A roller coaster of emotions, Barton joked it all comes with the territory of being an England supporter — but subsequently, so would “a little siesta” to mentally recover.

“It was a slog,” Barton told us after England’s 2-1 win against DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 match. “It was a really, really tough game.”

The Three Lions advanced to face Mexico in the round of 16 on Sunday at Mexico City Stadium — also known as Estadio Azteca, a venue sure to provide El Tri with an unparalleled home-field advantage. 

“The atmosphere in the stadium is going to be tremendous,” Barton said, praising Javier Aguirre’s side and World Cup co-hosts.

Between a true home game, the incredible altitude — Mexico City’s elevation is about 2,000 feet higher than mile-high Denver — and the pressure of the World Cup, this knockout match won’t be easy for England. And especially not if it concedes early again. 

As a former pro and current analyst, Barton broke down three keys for how England can beat Mexico, advance to the quarterfinals and keep the dream of football coming home alive. 

1.

Unsurprisingly from a former defender, Barton’s first point was England “no doubt” needing to defend better, particularly at right back. 

He pointed to 25-year-old Djed Spence, who plays for Tottenham Hotspur, perhaps struggling as the unexpected right back with Reece James being sidelined against DR Congo with a hamstring issue. DR Congo’s lone goal of the match was from Spence’s flank, so his inexperience may be showing.

“Spence is a young player, [and he] really burst onto the [English Premier League] with Tottenham this season,” Barton told us. “If you spoke before that, was he going to go to a World Cup? There wasn’t any talk of that, and it was only really in the last three months. So it’s a lot of pressure and responsibility on such a young player.”

(Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) –>

James hasn’t played since the Three Lions’ second group stage match, missing the group-stage finale, a 2-0 win against Panama, and the first knockout contest. Injuries have been an issue for this squad leading up to and throughout the World Cup so far.

“James would normally be the player to come in, the Chelsea fullback, but he’s got history of being injured,” Barton said. “And Tino Livramento — he had to leave early in the tournament because he was injured. So, you’ve picked two right backs that have got history-proven injuries, so hopefully Reese James can come back. Very experienced, good character, was noticeable that he had a chat with Spence. So the right back of defense has to be more solid and more organized.”

Although James’ status for Mexico is uncertain, Barton hopes the defender is able to return and bring some stability to the lineup. Against DR Congo, the FOX Sports analyst said he felt defenders were “overcompensating, over-covering and leaving space behind.”

“James coming in,” Barton continued, “with [Ezri] Konsa with maybe Guéhi and [Nico] O’Reilly — that’s a foundation that they need to do better as a unit and also as individuals, but particularly the right-back areas.”

2.

Taking care of the ball is critical in any sport that plays with one, but Barton hopes to see England being precise with and passing the ball better in the midfield. But also aggressive, rather than timid or complacent.

(Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images) –>

“You [saw manager] Thomas Tuchel [Wednesday] was very much animated about playing progressive soccer,” Barton observed. “He doesn’t like the side-to-side possession. [Elliot] Anderson or [Declan] Rice — that’s where we got that chance earlier on with Harry Kane.

“Passing, progressive soccer, look to try and penetrate early and hurt teams early with the likes of Harry Kane and the speed that we have on the flank. So that’s an area I think we need to improve.”

3.

Simple enough, right? 

Kane — whose Golden Boot odds soared after his brace vs. DR Congo — is the Three Lions’ most reliable goalscorer, meaning he’s also often the victim of strong defensive coverage. But with five goals in this World Cup so far, freeing him up and unlocking his full potential is a necessity for England advancing to the quarterfinals and beyond. 

“Just get Harry Kane the ball, getting it across, keep him engaged in the game as much as possible because he will score goals — there’s no doubt about that,” Barton said. 

He compared Kane’s ability to capitalize on opportunities to Erling Haaland’s, who also has five goals for Norway so far. They’re the kind of players who can score in a multitude of ways if their teammates set them up properly, he said.

“I was lucky enough to play with an England captain, Alan Shearer, at Newcastle [United],” Barton continued. “And he just used to say, ‘Give me the ball. Put the ball in the area, put the ball in the area.’ And you’re going to get chances, and you’re going to get goals. And if you don’t get the first ball, you might get the second ball. …

“Feed Harry Kane. Just give him the opportunity to put him in good areas, and he will score goals. It sounds simple, but it’s so effective to do that.”

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Former England striker Stan Collymore has heavily criticised FIFA for allowing World Cup co-hosts Mexico to play at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. However, midfielder Declan Rice insists the squad remain completely unfazed by the hostile conditions ahead of their round-of-16 tie.

Host venue sparking controversy

The physical demands of playing at the Estadio Azteca have dominated the build-up to England’s knockout match against Mexico. Situated 2,241 metres above sea level, the historic stadium presents extreme physiological challenges, including rapid fatigue and slower recovery times for unacclimatised players.

Critics have questioned the fairness of the tournament structure, given that Mexico have played their matches exclusively on home soil. This advantage is reflected in their formidable record of just two defeats in 89 competitive matches at the venue.

Collymore demands hosting review

Speaking to BetGoodwin, former England international forward Collymore expressed deep frustration over the geographical allocations handed to the tournament co-hosts, calling for comprehensive changes to the current selection process.

Collymore stated: “It’s wrong that Mexico have been permitted such a big physical advantage. I think FIFA and Gianni Infantino need to sit down with the other associations and find a way to make these tournaments fairer.

“Canada, for example, are a co-host but have had to play across the border in Seattle, while Mexico have been able to basically stay at the Azteca, where they’ve lost only twice in over 80 matches.

“We all know the physiological advantage of playing at altitude is very real. That was known well in advance, so I think it’s grossly unfair that one team can have such a significant physical advantage in what’s supposed to be a level playing field.

“For me, the whole hosting system needs looking at. England, with arguably the biggest domestic league in world football, haven’t hosted a World Cup in the modern television era, while Mexico have now had three. So yes, I think it’s absolutely wrong that one country can have such a clear physiological advantage over another.”

Rice maintains squad focus

Away from the outside noise, the England camp has deliberately downplayed any worries about the local environment. Speaking to Lions’ Den, Rice emphasised that Thomas Tuchel’s squad are treating the fixture as a standard away match, regardless of the venue’s historical weight.

Rice said: “It’s kind of going to be like an away game for us. They’ve played every game in Mexico so far, been at home the whole tournament, so for us it’s just being able to go there and deal with what’s going to be thrown at us.

“For us, we don’t care where we play. To us, it’s just a stadium. Obviously the Azteca is known as where Maradona done the ‘Hand of God’, like just loads of different iconic moments. For us, we’re just turning up to do a job.

“Obviously it’s going to be unreal, but it’s just another stadium we get to play at.”

Toughest tournament test awaits

England face their toughest tournament test against a confident Mexican side that have won all four matches so far without conceding. Having previously played only at low altitude, the Three Lions must adapt immediately to avoid a premature exit. Managing physical energy levels from the opening whistle will be absolutely critical if the visitors are to disrupt Mexico’s momentum and secure a place in the quarter-finals.

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Morocco defeated Canada, 3-0, at Houston Stadium in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 on Saturday at Houston Stadium. And it won with three second-half goals coming from a brace by Azzedine Ounahi and a stoppage-time goal from Soufiane Rahimi to put the cherry on the cake and book Morocco’s spot in the quarterfinals.

It was the end of the road for Canada as one of the co-hosts of this tournament. But it was still a successful run when you factor in that Les Rouges had never earned a single World Cup point before this tournament and accomplished so many milestones in this one.

Canada earned its first World Cup point, its first World Cup win, its first knockout-stage qualification and its first knockout-stage win, defeating South Africa 1-0 in the round of 32.

Against Morocco, Canada played relatively well, especially in the first half, where it was the more forward-thinking team. Les Rouges also started the second half well, but moments of quality from Morocco’s talented players did them in. They lacked that little bit of quality in the final third.

Canada coach Jesse Marsch, speaking after the game, was proud of the performance and said he would rather be Canada than Morocco, despite the Atlas Lions moving on to the quarterfinals.

“What a privilege our fans have had to root a team on like this — that goes after the game, that doesn’t play defensive, that shows that they can be better, right?” Marsch said. “Of course, we have to be in these situations more and more, and then we have to find ways to succeed, and then we have to build from that.

“But what a great team. I’d rather be us than them. As good as Morocco is, I’d rather be us, right? I’m really proud of our guys. We went after the game. They’re hurting right now, but my goodness, I couldn’t be prouder.”

Photo by Torbjorn Tande/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)

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Marsch believed Canada was the better team in the match and played the better football, but the quality in the final third was the difference. Morocco was clinical with its chances, while Canada was held scoreless despite creating moments of promise.

“We were the better team. We were the better team, right?” Marsch said.

“They made a couple more plays than us, but cranking up the intensity was not the issue. It was just they had a little bit of quality in the final third, and we lacked a little ability to make a play when we needed to.

“But in terms of the match plan, the idea of how we want to play football, the idea of a bunch of guys believing in themselves and going after it, and taking a top team who hasn’t lost in I don’t even know how long, and taking them to the limit — we were the much better team in the first half and even the beginning of the second half.

“It was one play that made it 1-0. Otherwise, the game was ours.”

Morocco has now earned a date with the winner of Paraguay-France. It will face off Thursday, July 9 at Boston Stadium.

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SEATTLE —”Great moments are born from great opportunity.”

It’s little wonder why USA coach Mauricio Pochettino co-opted one of the most famous quotes in American sports history in the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, noted fan of the Miracle on Ice that he has become.

Originally, the sentiment applied to the entire tournament. Now, it perfectly encapsulates Monday’s all-or-nothing round of 16 contest here against Belgium.

This is the big one.

(Photo by Lyndsay Radnedge/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images).

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In the last three World Cups the U.S. mens national team participated in, it was eliminated at this stage. But none of those teams was riding the wave of momentum that has captured the imagination of the American public over the last month. None talked openly about winning the whole thing. Most crucially, none of them were playing here at home.

“As a team, we want to leave our mark on the game and a legacy behind,” veteran midfielder Tyler Adams said on Friday. “I want it to be more than just what this moment has created and the hype around it.”

Only a victory will accomplish that.

(Photo by Erin Chang/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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As well as the co-hosts have done so far at this World Cup — including winning a World Cup knockout match for the first time since 2002 — what has long been considered a golden generation of players has yet to manage even one so-called “signature” win against a truly elite foe. In the round of 16 at Qatar 2022, they were thoroughly outclassed in a 3-1 defeat to the Netherlands.

Monday represents a chance to show how much they’ve improved in the almost four years since. Last week’s do-or-die 2-0 triumph over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the new round of 32 was a good start.

Now it gets real.

“You need to embrace the moment, that’s for sure, to have an opportunity to play in around a 16 game, which obviously in the last World Cup we did,” Adams said before the U.S. trained Saturday at Husky Stadium on the University of Washington campus. “It’s exciting. It was nice to get a little bit of a taste of what it feels like to play with something a little bit more on the line in the last game. I think that’s good preparation.”

Still, topping Belgium is another matter entirely. The Red Devils embarrassed the Americans in a March exhibition in Atlanta, coming from behind to beat the home team, 5-2.

(Photo by Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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Adams didn’t play in that match because of injury. Neither did five others who started against the Bosnians: keeper Matt Freese, defenders Alex Freeman and Chris Richards and wing back Sergiño Dest.

“It doesn’t matter,” Ream said of the last meeting with Belgium. “This is a completely different game than in March.”

He’s right. It’s easily the Stars and Stripes’ biggest game of this World Cup so far.

Belgium is an aging team. Coach Rudi Garcia’s roster still boasts four players who featured when the Belgians topped the U.S., 2-1, in extra time in the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, including keeper Thibaut Courtois and the two goalscorers that night in Salvador, Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. But they’re still stacked. Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku, in particular, gave the U.S. fits in Atlanta.

(Photo by BRUNO FAHY / BELGA MAG / Belga / AFP via Getty Images)

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Containing him will be a team effort, with Dest and Freeman requiring support from midfield destroyer Adams, center back Richards and anyone else in the proximity.

“We will make it really difficult for their wingers to even go behind our defense,” Dest vowed. 

Easier said than done. 

“Not a lot of teams in the world can slow [Doku] down,” said Adams.

That’s the assignment nonetheless.

Chances like this don’t come along very often. The fanbase that has wholeheartedly embraced this team will quickly forget the three games they’ve won at this World Cup if they don’t take advantage and go at least one step further than they have in almost a quarter-century. 

If they do, though, the legacy Pochettino, Adams and others have talked about leaving will be secure. The U.S. would then have a chance, mostly pressure-free, to upset Spain or Portugal and reach the semifinals. 

Do that, and these 26 players will walk together for the rest of their lives.

“Taking this thing as far as we can is the most important thing,” Adams said. “We have a good opportunity here to do so.”

Locked in as they are on Belgium, the bigger picture must remain in the background for now. But they all know it’s there. 

“We are, as we all continue to say, very aware of the impact that we’re having around the country,” said Ream, who called Monday’s game an “opportunity to continue to inspire tens of millions of people, inspire kids.”

It’s one this U.S. team has earned. We’ll see if they can turn it into a moment no American soccer fan will ever forget.

USA vs. Beglium

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