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Lionel Messi continues to remind the football world that he’s the greatest player of all time, with one GOAT move after another. Now, he’s the all-time leading FIFA World Cup goalscorer — and will only extend his mark with every goal. 

Thanks to his hat trick against Algeria, Messi broke multiple records in his first 2026 World Cup match, including equaling Germany’s Miroslav Klose for most men’s World Cup goals in history with 16. He also now holds the record for being the youngest and oldest Argentinian to score in the competition, and after the 3-0 win over Algeria, he became the oldest male player to net a hat trick at the World Cup. 

And that was only after his first 2026 World Cup match. 

In his second game this summer, against Austria in the group-stage match, Messi made history again, breaking the tie with Klose and becoming the all-time top scorer in men’s World Cup history with 17. And then he kept going.  Shortly before the end of the match, he netted his second goal of the game, bringing his World Cup total to 18 goals and breaking the all-time tie he had with Brazilian women’s national team legend Marta (17). 

Messi now stands alone in FIFA World Cup history with 18 tournament goals and 122 overall as Argentina’s top scorer.

He has five goals in his first two matches at this edition of the World Cup, and the fact that he’s been doing this for two decades is remarkable. 

There is no doubt that the Argentinian captain, who is playing in a record sixth World Cup alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, will continue to keep opponents up at night. So the only natural thing to do is to not just count his 2026 World Cup goals, but also rank them. 

But it can’t just end there, so allow me to rank all 18 of them. Because every beautiful gem deserves its own appraisal. On his 39th birthday, therefore, may I present my rankings of Lionel Messi’s 18 World Cup goals.

And yes, as you might expect, I will more than likely be adding even more.
 

18. Goal vs. Saudi Arabia | Nov. 22, 2022

Messi stepped up for the penalty after a foul on Leandro Paredes. But the shock of the tournament arrived when Herve Renard’s Saudi Arabia came out victorious. It would only be the spark that would eventually kickstart a historic World Cup-winning campaign.

17. First Goal vs. France | Dec. 18, 2022

For me, the 2022 World Cup final was the greatest I have ever witnessed, and it started with another spot-kick as Messi made it 1-0. Little did we know that this would only be the first chapter of an incredible footballing novel. 

16. Goal vs. Netherlands | Dec. 9, 2022

Messi already had an assist for the opening goal, and he made it 2-0 before the Netherlands came back to make it very entertaining with another penalty. La Pulga placed it beautifully past Andries Noppert as the Argentina faithful celebrated from behind the goal. 

15. Goal vs. Croatia | Dec. 13, 2022

Another clutch penalty after Julián Álvarez was taken down. Messi’s spot-kick was smashed into the top right corner as Dominik Livaković couldn’t do anything about it. 

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14. Second Goal vs. France | Dec. 18, 2022

A dramatic goal in stoppage time when Argentina took a 3-2 lead as Hugo Lloris failed to push away a shot from Lautaro Martinez, so Messi pounced. As we all remember, the night would conclude with a penalty shootout and a glorious third World Cup title, 36 years after Diego Maradona lifted the trophy in México. 

13. Second Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026

A prototypical Messi instinct is to react before anyone else. And that’s what happened here after Alexis Mac Allister’s effort was pushed away by Zidane, but not far enough. Messi pounced and earned his second goal of the night.

12. Third Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026

There is probably more of a poetic, symbolic meaning to this goal as it officially marked his first ever hat trick at the World Cup. But it was also a delightful finish that sealed the three points and placed Messi in the history books. 

Receiving a ball from Nico Gonzalez inside the box, the soon-to-be 39-year-old star made a quick assessment and shot at Zidane with an effort that went bottom-left. Once again, the goal was perfectly placed with tremendous accuracy and the stadium knew the outcome. We all did. 

Messi, once again, gave us an evening to never forget. 

11. Goal vs. Australia | Dec. 3, 2022

It took a dramatic save from Emiliano Martínez at the end of this one for Argentina to secure the victory, but it all started with Messi’s opener during what was his 1,000th career match. The goal started from a free-kick cross by Leo that ended up with him entering the box and, with a slight touch from Nicolas Otamendi, the Argentinian icon placed a low shot past Matt Ryan.

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10. First Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026

Messi, as he is turning, receives the ball from his Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul, and with his quintessential, almost omnipotent left foot, takes an effort just outside the box, smashing a powerful shot past Algeria’s Luka Zidane. Zinedine’s son probably saw it coming, but like many other mortals, it just can’t be stopped. It was the door that opened the floodgates. 

Once again, as is always the case, it started and ended with Messi as he provided the ball out to the left to Julian Alvarez. The man from Atlético de Madrid saw his shot saved, Messi claimed it, then shot it. THAT one gets blocked, but because Leo never quits, the Argentinian captain headed toward the center of the box and smashed it in. 

Pure determination.

9. Record-Breaking Goal vs. Austria | June 22, 2026

Of course, this is the goal that’s sealed in time, making him the all-time scorer in men’s World Cup history. After missing a penalty in the 14th minute, Messi made amends by scoring a delicious finish, thanks also to a wonderful dummy by Thiago Almada. 

Messi took it the first time, and it was clear he was never going to miss. On the 40th anniversary of Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” against England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal, Messi created another eternal memory for Argentina.

8. Goal vs. Serbia and Montenegro | June 16, 2006

Messi’s first ever goal at the World Cup. Days before his 19th birthday, Messi came on from the bench with just over 15 minutes left. Carlos Tevez found the then-Barcelona teenager, who made a run inside the box and slotted it past the goalkeeper. 

It may not be his greatest goal from an aesthetic perspective, but it’s one of the most meaningful. 

7. Goal vs. Mexico | Nov. 26, 2022 

Anxiety was rising with Argentina fans as La Albiceleste was currently at 0-0 against Mexico deep in the second half. But then came Leo as Di María gave him the ball just outside the box. The Argentina captain sent a powerful, low effort past Memo Ochoa for the opener and the South Americans erupted.

6. First Goal vs. Nigeria | June 25, 2014

Messi ended the group stage in perfection, scoring a brace against Nigeria. The first came in the second minute of action as Angel Di María hit the post and, like a bull charging at will, Leo entered the box and smashed it in. An absolute rocket.

5. Second Goal vs. Austria | June 22, 2026

Once again, as is always the case, it started and ended with Messi as he provided the ball out to the left to Julian Alvarez. The man from Atlético de Madrid saw his shot saved, Messi claimed it, then shot it. THAT one gets blocked, but because Leo never quits, the Argentinian captain headed toward the center of the box and smashed it in. 

Pure determination. And also, pay attention to his touch just as he gets the ball inside the box. It is the definition of genius and elegance. But you have to slow down the highlight in order to truly appreciate it.

4. Second Goal vs. Nigeria | June 25, 2014

The second was Messi’s first and only free-kick goal at the World Cup. Nigeria came back with a goal but, in true fashion, La Pulga reclaimed his team the lead with a beautiful set piece. Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama could only watch and follow it in as he knew — as we all did — he was already beaten. 

3. Goal vs. Iran | June 21, 2014

Iran held on as much as it could. But when you face Messi, that’s just never enough. In the 90th minute, Leo picked up the ball on the edge of the box and completely smashed a beautiful left-footed attempt heading towards the top left of goal. A piece of magic and one of my favorite goals.

2. Goal vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina | June 15, 2014

Messi didn’t score in the 2010 World Cup so he had to make amends four years later in Brazil. At 27, he was ready to make a statement and this is one of my favorite goals because you are now seeing prime Leo—running at full speed—unable to be stopped. 

Messi drives towards goal, gives it to Gonzalo Higuain, gets it right back and, with a lethal left-foot finish that eventually becomes a trademark on the bottom left, scores. The best part is that he forced two Bosnian defenders to crash into each other in the process, as they were unable to stop the Argentinian. 

They became two early victims of Messi’s wrath.

1. Goal vs. Nigeria | June 26, 2018

After causing havoc against the Super Eagles back in 2014, the African side was probably done with this guy by the time Russia 2018 arrived. But Messi was not and four years later, Leo scored what is in my opinion, his greatest World Cup goal. 

He received a great pass from Ever Banega, and as he was tracked down by a defender, Leo took a touch as smooth as butter with his left knee, then with his left foot, brought it down to his weaker right foot and slammed it past the goalkeeper. 

Hang it in the Louvre? It’s a goal so good that it deserves to have its own exhibition.
 

Messi Does It AGAIN 🤯 Scores Brace vs Austria To Become All-Time FIFA World Cup™ Goalscoring Leader

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For the first time at a FIFA World Cup, finishing third in your group does not necessarily mean going home.

With 48 teams competing in 2026, FIFA expanded the field to include the eight best third-place finishers across all 12 groups. The top two teams in each group advance automatically, and the remaining eight spots in the 32-team knockout bracket go to the highest-ranked third-place teams, determined by points, goal difference, goals scored and other tiebreakers.

That means 12 teams will be competing for eight spots, and the race to stay in the top eight is one of the most compelling subplots of the final days of the group stage.

Here’s where the third-place standings sit after Group F play finished.

Third-Place World Cup Standings

Rank		GP	Points	Goal Diff.
1	Sweden*	3	4	0
2	Ecuador*	3	4	0
3	Bosnia*	3	4	-1
4	Croatia	2	3	-1
5	South Korea	3	3	-1
6	Algeria	2	3	-2
7	Paraguay	2	3	-2
8	Scotland	3	3	-3
Cutline
9	Cape Verde	2	2	0
10	Belgium	2	2	0
11	DR Congo	2	1	-1
12	Senegal	2	0	-3

Teams with an asterisk (*) have clinched a spot in the knockout round. 

The third-place standings will shift considerably over the next few days as the final round of group stage matches is played. Follow the live standings at FOXSports.com and watch every match on FOX and FS1, streaming live on FOX One.

Ecuador vs Germany Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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2026 FIFA World Cup Standings Rules

How Do Points Work? How Do Tiebreakers Work? 

In a group, a team will earn three points for a win, one point for a draw, and no points for a loss. That could mean some teams are equal on points at the end of the three-game group stage. That leads us to tiebreakers. 

If two or more teams finish equal on group-stage points, here is the order of who finishes on top:

1. Most points obtained in the head-to-head matches played between the tied teams;
2. Superior goal difference in the head-to-head matches played between the tied teams;
3. Most goals scored in the head-to-head matches played between the tied teams;

There are even more tiebreakers if any teams remained locked after all that. From there, ties are broken by these rules:

4. Superior goal difference in all group matches
5. Most goals scored in all group matches
6. Highest team conduct score in all group matches (taking into account yellow cards and red cards)
7. FIFA World Ranking

Which Third-Place Teams Will Advance?

To fill out the World Cup knockout bracket, the best eight third-place teams out of the possible 12 in the tournament will advance. The criteria for those teams are based on: 

1. Points
2. Goal difference
3. Goals scored
4. Highest team conduct score in all group matches (taking into account yellow cards and red cards)
5. FIFA World Ranking

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The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Sonoma on Sunday, June 28 for the last road-course race of the season.

Can Shane van Gisbergen bounce back after a disappointing race at San Diego?

Here are the early odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of June 24.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

Toyota/Save Mart 350

Shane van Gisbergen: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total)
Tyler Reddick: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total)
Connor Zilisch: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total)
Kyle Larson: +900 (bet $10 to win $100 total)
Ryan Blaney: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
Michael McDowell: +1500 (bet $10 to win $160 total)
Ty Gibbs: +2000 (bet $10 to win $210 total)
Chase Briscoe: +2000 (bet $10 to win $210 total)
William Byron: +2200 (bet $10 to win $230 total)
Chris Buescher: +2200 (bet $10 to win $230 total)
AJ Allmendinger: +2200 (bet $10 to win $230 total)
Chase Elliott: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Christopher Bell: +4500 (bet $10 to win $460 total)
Daniel Suárez: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)
Ross Chastain: +5500 (bet $10 to win $560 total)
Carson Hocevar: +6000 (bet $10 to win $610 total)

Ryan Preece: +9000 (bet $10 to win $910 total)
Denny Hamlin: +9000 (bet $10 to win $910 total)
Bubba Wallace: +9000 (bet $10 to win $910 total)
Austin Hill: +9000 (bet $10 to win $910 total)
Zane Smith: +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total)
Joey Logano: +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total)
Alex Bowman: +11000 (bet $10 to win $1,110 total)
Todd Gilliland: +13000 (bet $10 to win $1,310 total)
Austin Cindric: +13000 (bet $10 to win $1,310 total)
Riley Herbst: +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)
John Hunter Nemechek: +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)
Brad Keselowski:: +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)
Austin Dillon: +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total)
Erik Jones: +25000 (bet $10 to win $2,510 total)
Ty Dillon: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)
Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)
Noah Gragson: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)
Josh Berry: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)
Cole Custer: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)
Cody Ware: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)

Here’s what to know about the oddsboard:

The Favorite 

SVG closed as the heavy favorite at -225 to win NASCAR’s inaugural race at Naval Base Coronado and started from the pole. However, a win wasn’t in the cards for him. An accident ended his day early and Corey Heim got the win instead. Now, he’s the clear favorite again, as the series heads into its final road course of the season. In 2025, he got into Victory Lane on five different road courses. SVG’s only win this year came at Watkins Glen.

One To Watch

Kyle Larson is the defending Cup champion, and he leads all drivers in stage points. However, Larson hasn’t gotten into Victory Lane at all this year. He does have seven top-five finishes, though, and has led 608 laps. He comes into this race after a strong third-place finish at last weekend’s road course in San Diego. 

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Lionel Messi is having a big week. The soccer GOAT had a record-breaking performance in Argentina’s second group-stage match against Austria, picking up a brace and taking over as the FIFA World Cup top goalscorer among men and women. 

He also turned 39 on Wednesday, showing that for some, age is just a number. 

For Messi’s birthday, here are 39 World Cup stats about the GOAT. 

18: Messi scored his 17th and 18th career World Cup goals on Monday. The two goals helped him break a tie with German legend Miroslav Klose for the most goals scored ever by a men’s player at the World Cup, and Brazil icon Marta for the most goals scored ever by any player at the World Cup.

18: Messi won his 18th match at the World Cup with Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria on Monday, passing Miroslav Klose for the most in men’s World Cup history.

6: Messi also tied the record for most consecutive matches scored in a men’s World Cup with six (Jairzinho, Just Fontaine) in Monday’s match. 

4: Messi has now scored four or more goals in three different men’s World Cups. The only other player to do that is Miroslav Klose.

23: 23% of all goals ever scored by players aged 35 or older at the men’s World Cup belong to Messi (per OPTA).

3: Messi became the third man to score a brace after missing a penalty in a match, after Alessandro Altobelli in 1990 and David Villa in 2010.

5: Messi became the fourth man to score five goals in his first two matches of a World Cup tournament, after Sandor Kocsis in 1954 (seven), Just Fontaine in 1958 (five) and Harry Kane in 2018 (five).

5: Messi recorded his fifth multi-goal game at a World Cup (four braces, one hat trick) with his performance on Monday. 

2.5: The 2.5 goals Messi has scored per match so far in this tournament would be the most goals scored ever per match in World Cup history among players who’ve scored at least five goals.

20: If Argentina reaches the final and Messi plays in all eight matches, he’d be on pace to score 20 goals over the course of the tournament. That would break the record for the most goals scored in a single World Cup by seven. France’s Just Fontaine scored 13 goals in the 1958 World Cup. 

28: Messi logged his 28th career World Cup match on Monday, extending his record for the most World Cup matches played by a single player. 

21: Monday’s match was the 21st time that Messi was Argentina’s captain for a World Cup match, extending his record.  

13: Messi won his 13th Man of the Match award at the FIFA World Cup on Monday, extending his record. 

2,489: Following Wednesday’s match, Messi has now played 2,489 minutes at the World Cup. That’s the most of any player at the World Cup. 

8: Messi’s eight Ballons d’Ors are the most ever. Could he possibly win his ninth after another strong World Cup showing? 

2: Messi is the only player to have won the World Cup’s Golden Ball award on multiple occasions (2014, 2022). Prior to Monday, Messi was tied for the second-best odds to win the award at +650. 

38: Messi’s hat trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria made him the oldest player to score a hat trick in World Cup history, doing so at 38 years, 357 days old. He passed Cristiano Ronaldo, who held the record with his hat trick against Spain in 2018 at 33 years old.

38: Messi’s also the oldest player to score a brace in the history of the World Cup, as he was 38 years old and 363 days old when he scored twice on Monday. 

6: Messi was one of the first two players to appear in six World Cups, with the other being Cristiano Ronaldo. 

5: Messi became the second player to score in five different World Cups, with his first goal in this tournament. He joined Cristiano Ronaldo as the only other player to score in that many different World Cups. 

3: Messi is the fourth-oldest goalscorer in a men’s World Cup at 38 years old. He was previously the third-oldest goalscorer in a men’s World Cup, but 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo’s two goals on Tuesday pushed him down the list. Roger Milla (42 in 1994) and Pepe (39 in 2022) are the other players older than Messi to have scored in a World Cup match. 

200: With 201 career international appearances, Messi is one of three players with 200 career international caps. The other two are Cristiano Ronaldo (230) and Bader Al-Mutawa (202).

5: Messi has scored five goals from outside the box in his World Cup career, equaling the most of any player since 1966 (Rivellino) (per OPTA).

11: Messi has scored 11 hat-tricks in his career for Argentina, which is the most in the history of the federation and among all men’s players in international play. He’s only one short of Alex Morgan’s record for the most international hat-tricks scored among all men’s and women’s players. 

8: Messi’s eight assists at the World Cup are tied for the most assists at the World Cup among all players. Only Diego Maradona has as many assists. 

802: Messi’s 802 non-penalty kick goals are the most such goals ever scored in soccer history.

109: Messi’s 109 goals from outside the box are also the most such goals ever scored in soccer history.

32: With his 14 career goals at Copa América, Messi’s 32 goals at major international tournaments are the most ever.

(Photo by Grzegorz Wajda/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

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29: While Messi has already scored five goals in this tournament, his best play is arguably yet to come. His 29 goal contributions in knockout matches of major international tournaments are the most ever. 

414: While Messi’s goalscoring has been historically good, he’s also arguably the best player at setting up teammates in soccer history as well. His 414 career assists are the most ever.

18: Messi is the youngest player to record a goal and an assist in a World Cup match. He had a goal and an assist in Argentina’s 6-0 victory over Serbia

1: Messi is the only player to have ever scored in the FIFA Men’s World Cup as a teenager, 20-year-old and 30-year-old. 

7: Messi has attempted seven penalty kicks, the most of any player in World Cup history (excluding penalty shootouts).

20: Messi scored his first World Cup goal and his most recent World Cup goal 20 years apart, tied with Cristiano Ronaldo for the longest stretch between first and most recent World Cup goal ever.

3: Messi is one of three players who hold the unique distinction of being both the youngest and oldest scorer for their country at the men’s World Cup, along with Michael Laudrup (Denmark) and Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal).

122: Messi has scored 122 goals for Argentina, the second-most of any man in international football history (Cristiano Ronaldo- 145).

2: Messi is one of two South American players ever to score in a World Cup match at 18 years old or younger, along with Pelé.

78: Messi has created 78 chances in his World Cup career, the most of any player ever since this data was recorded (1966, per OPTA).

2,074: Messi is the only player to eclipse 2,000 touches at the World Cup since this data was tracked (1966, per OPTA).

MESSI MAKES HISTORY Instant Reaction to Argentina’s 2-0 win vs Austria ️

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This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

The best betting promos for Scotland vs. Brazil and Czechia vs. Mexico are available today across top sportsbooks, including BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, bet365, Caesars Sportsbook.

With four World Cup matches remaining on the schedule and multiple groups being decided, there are plenty of opportunities to maximize bonus bets, profit boosts, and signup offers.

Scotland needs a result to strengthen its knockout-round hopes, while Brazil looks to secure advancement and potentially first place in Group C. 

Later, Mexico takes on Czechia after already clinching Group A. El Tri can finish the group stage with a perfect record, while Czechia needs a win and help elsewhere to keep its round of 32 hopes alive.

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Mexico vs. Czechia Odds

*Odds may differ each site*

Moneyline

• Mexico: -112
• Czechia: +265
• Draw: +270

How to Watch Czechia vs. Mexico

• When: Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 9:00 p.m. ET
• Where: Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico
• TV: FOX
• Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

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Brazil vs. Scotland Odds

*Odds may differ each site*

Moneyline

• Brazil: -280 (bet $10 to win $13.57 total)
• Scotland: +700 (bet $10 to win $80 total)
• Draw: +410 (bet $10 to win $51 total)

Spread 

• Brazil -1.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
• Scotland +1.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)

Over/Under Total Odds: 2.5

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• Under: -104 (bet $10 to win $19.62 total)

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 South Korea vs. South Africa Odds

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Moneyline

• South Korea: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total)
• South Africa: +450 (bet $10 to win $55 total)
• Draw: +280 (bet $10 to win $38 total)

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• South Korea -0.5: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total)
• South Africa +0.5: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total)

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• Over: +106 (bet $10 to win $20.60 total)

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Group C Scenarios

• Brazil will advance with a win/draw.
• Morocco will advance with a win/draw OR a Scotland loss/draw.
• If both Brazil and Morocco win, the group winner will be determined by goal difference.
• Scotland will advance with a win.
• Haiti has been eliminated.

Group A Scenarios

Mexico has won the group and will face a third-place team (from either Group C, E, F, H, or I) in the Round of 32 in Mexico City on June 30.

• South Korea will advance with a win/draw.
• Czechia will advance with a win AND a South Korea loss, AND wins the tiebreaker.
• South Africa will advance with a win AND a Czechia loss/draw.

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U.S. World Cup Training Base (IRVINE, Calif.) — Can I guess the first question?

Christian Pulisic knew what was on everybody’s mind. When the superstar forward approached a group of reporters before U.S. men’s national team training on Wednesday, he flashed a smile, already anticipating the topic of conversation.

(Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

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“How are you feeling?” one reporter asked. He grinned again. 

“I’m feeling good,” said Pulisic, who has only played 45 minutes of this World Cup so far due to a left calf injury. 

“I’ve obviously joined the team in the last few days, so I’m feeling good, positive going into it, and hopefully I’ll be able to play a part tomorrow.”

Pulisic has not played for the USA since getting subbed off at halftime of the Americans’ World Cup opening 4-1 win over Paraguay nearly two weeks ago. He sat on the bench for the 2-0 victory against Australia last week and is hopeful of seeing the field Thursday when the U.S. faces Türkiye at Los Angeles Stadium.

Pulisic explained on Wednesday that he “took a big kick to the calf” a couple of days before the team’s first game. Asked who kicked him, Pulisic joked, “I will not disclose that.” 

He proceeded to start against Paraguay and played a role in the first two goals. But he began to feel the injury as the match wore on. Pulisic believes adrenaline helped mask the severity of it at the time, which is why he downplayed the issue when he spoke to reporters afterward. 

Ultimately, though, the injury proved significant enough to sideline him from full training and force him to miss the next match.

Pulisic still isn’t quite sure what to call his injury — he described it as a “pretty strong contusion, strain, whatever you want to call it.” And he’s anxious to get back on the field. The past 12 days have been difficult.

“Honestly, it was tough after the first game for sure, just knowing that I felt a little something,” Pulisic said, candidly. “I never really feared the worst, but I obviously didn’t want it to keep me out any longer than I had to, and I was really trying to get ready for the last game. I feel like I could have gone, but it just wasn’t quite there.”

Pulisic experienced “tough emotions” in Seattle knowing he would be a spectator. Winning — and subsequently clinching first place in Group D — made it a little bit easier.

Pulisic appeared happy and light ahead of training. All week, he’d seemed unburdened and at ease with his teammates as they practiced in sunny Southern California where the temperatures have rarely climbed higher than the 70s. After the Australia game, cameras caught Pulisic smiling and singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” while walking around the field and enjoying the moment with his teammates.

“World Cups are so special,” Pulisic said. “Getting two wins in the first two games, sending yourself to the next round, it was just a fun moment with the team. They played a song we all knew, and I just can’t explain it — it gives you chills. It’s so much fun to be here, be a part of this team, whether I’m playing or not. Honestly, it’s just like, it’s the best experience that you can ever live. So I’m just loving it.”

It remains unclear whether Pulisic will play against Türkiye. U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino has not revealed his starting lineup to players before match day, so Pulisic said he doesn’t know what role he’ll have Thursday. He doubts he’d be asked to go the full 90 minutes after missing time. 

Still, Pulisic brushed aside the idea that he’s been out for two weeks, noting that he’s trained individually every day and continued to get touches on the ball. As far as he’s concerned, he hasn’t lost any sharpness.

Beyond Pulisic’s availability, Pochettino has broader squad decisions to manage ahead of the final group game. The Americans have already clinched a spot in the knockout stage and will face a to-be-determined third-place finisher (although it’s likely going to be Bosnia and Herzegovina) on July 1 in Santa Clara. Additionally, Chris Richards, Antonee “Jedi” Robinson, Tyler Adams and Folarin Balogun are all one booking away from suspension. 

Although yellow cards are wiped after the group stage, suspensions are not and another caution against Türkiye would force them to miss the round of 32.

Christian Pulisic’s only appearance so far was in the opener against Paraguay. (Getty Images) –>

Pochettino could roll out an entirely different lineup from the first two matches, or he may choose a mix of regular starters and players who have yet to see action.

“Everyone on this team is ready to step up, so I feel like it would just be a normal thing for us,” Pulisic said when asked about teammates who have not played yet. “We’re going to support and push everyone the same way, whoever gets the opportunity tomorrow to play, whatever the decisions may be. Everyone is going to be ready, and it just shows how much more depth and what a strong team we have.”

Regardless, the squad feels strongly about sweeping the group to give them momentum into the knockout round.

“When you win your last game, you go into the next with that little bit of extra — I don’t know — just a good feeling,” Pulisic explained matter-of-factly. “That winning mentality feeling just sticks with you. Going into the knockout rounds will definitely feel better with a win, so that’s why we’re going to push for it.”

Doing the opposite would go against everything Pochettino stands for and the mantra of “Why Not Us?” that he’s instilled in the group.

“I always believe that anything is possible,” Pulisic said. “And it’s like, I don’t feel like we necessarily need some miracle to go far in the World Cup. I think we have a really good team. I think we can do it. Things have to go your way, just like for everyone. I just always feel like believing is better than not.”

United States vs Australia Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Bosnia and Herzegovina rose to the occasion to defeat Qatar 3-1 in Seattle, and likely put itself into the knockout stages of a World Cup for the first time.

Sergej Barbarez’s team was aggressive in the first half behind standout performances from teenager Kerim Alajbegovic and legendary 40-year-old captain Edin Džeko to propel the team to a defining World Cup victory. 

The full rankings of third-place teams will not be known until later in the week, but Bosnia and Herzegovina is now in great shape to advance. Here are my four takeaways from the match:

1. Youth Is Served For Bosnia and Herzegovina

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) –>

In a World Cup that has been dominated by some of the greatest players to ever play the game, Bosnia and Herzegovina is all-but-assured to qualify for the knockout stages for the first time in its history, thanks to major contributions from its youth, including its youngest-ever goalscorer in winger Kerim Alajbegović (18). 

Born in Cologne, Germany, to Bosnian parents, Alajbegović took a ball from Ivan Basic and evaded several Qatari defenders and fired a brilliant and unstoppable shot into the top corner. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a promising group of younger players within its system and Alajbegović is a big part of the team’s future. Now at Salzburg, he is set to join Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Kerim Alajbegović scores an absolute screamer, taking the lead vs Qatar | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Even aside from the goal, Alajbegović had a very good and complete performance where he was routinely dangerous and always looking to make a difference. That is why this tournament can be so much fun. It is not just for established stars; it is also a place where stars are made – and Alajbegović just scored what is arguably the biggest goal in the history of the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. 

In addition to Alajbegović, Ivan Basic was also very dangerous for Bosnia and Herzegovina throughout the game. Basic not only assisted on Alajbegović’s goal, he also set up Džeko for a shot off the post. He was the best passer in this game. At just 24, Basic is a player not just for this World Cup, but he will also be important to Bosnia & Herzegovina by a long stretch. 

Finally, there is Ermin Mahmic, the 21-year-old who put the game out of reach with the third Bosnia and Herzegovina goal. Born in Austria to Bosnian parents, Mahmic played for Austrian youth national teams in the past. It was only last month, in May, when he completed a change-of-association switch with FIFA to play for Bosnia & Herzegovina. In doing so and then scoring in this game, he became one of the key pieces to this national team’s future.

Ermin Mahmić seals Bosnia and Herzegovina’s win vs Qatar with goal | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Bosnia and Herzegovina is well set up for the future with a talented base of young players. Most of these players were born outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina at a time when many families in the country were displaced in the 1990s. Now, many children born abroad to Bosnian parents in the years following the war are opting to play for Bosnia & Herzegovina.

In addition to Mahmic and Alajbegović, there is also Esmir Bajraktarevic, who started in this game and played a big role in World Cup qualifying. Bajraktarevic was born and raised in Wisconsin and played for the U.S. U-20 and U-23 teams (and one appearance with the full national team) before switching to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

2. Džeko Still Important To Bosnia 

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) –>

What was fun about this win for Bosnia and Herzegovina is that it was not just the youth of Alajbegović; it was also a very important performance from Edin Džeko, who at age 40 is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s all-time leading scorer. The Sarajevo native has over 400 career goals for club and country. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, he has 73 goals in 150 appearances. 

Džeko did not score in this game, but he made the team’s second goal possible when he got on the end of a cross from fullback Sead Kolasinac deep in the box. He then attempted to send a header back across the goal, but it deflected off Sultan Al Brake for an own goal.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s lead extends with Qatar own goal | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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In the 38th minute, Džeko nearly put the game out of reach when he got on the end of a brilliant ball from Basic while in stride towards the goal. He took a left-footed shot that looked as if it was heading into the corner, but instead hit the post.

Džeko’s 150th cap ended in the 64th minute when he was subbed out. While he was technically not part of a goal contribution, it was a very good performance and the win was not possible without him. 

Between Džeko and Alajbegović, it was a win that was made possible by two players 22 years apart in age, spanning multiple generations. It was a true “changing of the guard” moment for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. 

3. Qatar kept fighting

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) –>

When Qatar conceded its second goal in a five-minute span via an own goal to fall behind 2-0, it seemed as if Qatar was going to fold and make a quiet exit from the tournament. That was not the case at all. 

Qatar responded by playing its best soccer of the tournament, by far. It began with a great cross from right back Pedro Miguel that found Edmílson Junior at the back post. He then was able to set up Hassan Al-Haydos for a close finish to pull one back and make it 2-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina. Then, just before the half, Miguel nearly equalized for Qatar but hit the post instead. While trailing in the later stages of the first half, Qatar enjoyed a long spell where it was on the front foot.

It was a positive response for Qatar and one that should make its fans proud that the team put up a fight and never gave up. 

4. The U.S Awaits?

(Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) –>

Bosnia and Herzegovina finished third in Group B behind Switzerland and Canada. But with four points, that will certainly be enough to send the team through to its first-ever knockout appearances. 

One of the likely scenarios now has this Bosnia & Herzegovina team facing the United States on July 1 at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in what would be a huge occasion for both teams. For the U.S. team, it is a chance to win a rare knockout game on home soil. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, it will likely be the biggest game in the history of its national team. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina matches up well with the United States. It has a nice blend of youth and experience that should give the team plenty of energy. It is also a strong and physical group. Under head coach Sergej Barbarez, the players all play hard and compete. That was how it enjoyed its defining moment of beating Italy in the playoffs of World Cup qualifying.

The U.S. team will scout Bosnia and Herzegovina extensively ahead of this potential matchup, and if the game materializes, Mauricio Pochettino will have to prepare his team for a very physical battle for 90 — or possibly even 120 minutes.

Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Check out the full game highlights between Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup™. Announced by Mark Scott and Cobi Jones.

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Canada threw itself a party at home and Switzerland strolled in to rearrange the furniture. Two goals in the first dozen minutes of the second half settled it. 

Switzerland and Canada both advanced to the knockout round as well. But the co-hosts’ 2-1 defeat in Vancouver was a reminder that hosting a World Cup gets you a great crowd, not a free pass.  

Here are my takeaways from Switzerland’s win over Canada:

1. Swiss Banking: The Swiss Take Group B, Canada Cashes In Anyway

Switzerland emerged as the winner of Group B. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) –>

Both teams arrived on four points, and both left with what they came for — sort of. Switzerland’s win lifts Murat Yakin’s side to seven points and first place in Group B, which should buy it the friendlier-looking half of the round of 32 bracket. Canada dropped to second. But here’s the part worth celebrating in Vancouver: second place still means advancing.

For a nation that went home pointless and goalless in 1986 and again in 2022, this is uncharted territory — the first time Canada has ever escaped a World Cup group. Losing the group on the final day dents pride, not the standings. Qualification was effectively secured before kickoff, and Canada is happy to take a knockout berth on home soil, however it arrives.

2. No Galáctico, No Hype — And Top Of Group B Anyway

Here’s a fun exercise: name a Swiss superstar. Take your time. Switzerland just won Group B without a single player who the casual fan would cross a room to watch. 

Captain Granit Xhaka is a 33-year-old metronome rebuilt at Sunderland. Defensive rock Manuel Akanji quietly anchors Inter Milan. Gregor Kobel keeps goals out of the net for Borussia Dortmund, and Breel Embolo leads the line for Rennes. All solid players at the club level, but not one is a household name — and that’s precisely why everyone keeps sleeping on them.

Murat Yakin’s side is organized, compact, ruthless in transition and lethal from set pieces — the footballing equivalent of the kid who always did the homework and stayed after class for extra help. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals at each of the last two Euros. Overlooked suits the squad just fine. It only means nobody enjoys drawing the team that quietly keeps advancing.

Canada’s Luc de Fougerolles passes the ball under pressure from Switzerland’s Breel Embolo. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) –>

3. Hot, Cold, And Through: The Jesse Marsch Verdict

Three group games, three completely different versions of Canada. A flat 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina to open, despite being ranked 34 places higher. Then a 6-0 demolition of Qatar that smelled like a breakout. Then this: busy, competitive and ultimately second-best.

That’s the Marsch experience in a sentence: high-energy, high-press, gloriously unpredictable, occasionally combustible. What did Wednesday teach us? 

That the press can be split by quick, direct play, and that two soft moments after halftime — including a goalkeeper who got a hand to the second goal but only helped it in — will sink you against good teams. But also that this group doesn’t fold; Canada outshot Switzerland and pulled one back through substitute Promise David. 

The verdict is a genuine knockout side with a wobble in it. Dangerous on a good day, beatable on a bad one.

4. The Kid From Geneva: Johan Manzambi Has Arrived

Remember the name, because Switzerland already has. Johan Manzambi — a 20-year-old box-to-box midfielder from Bundesliga side SC Freiburg — delivered the breakout performance of the Swiss tournament. He set up Rubén Vargas seconds into the second half, then doubled the lead himself with a direct shot that squeezed past Canada goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau.

This was no fluke. The Geneva-born youngster — son of Angolan and Congolese parents — had already come off the bench to score twice against Bosnia and Herzegovina, becoming the youngest Swiss player ever to score a brace at a World Cup. Manzambi has three goals and an assist in his first tournament, at 20, from midfield. 

Murat Yakin has spent the group stage learning what Freiburg already knew, and Premier League scouts are circling.

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Lionel Messi has left the door open for a sensational appearance at the 2030 World Cup after cementing his legacy as the greatest goalscorer in the history of the competition. The Argentina icon, currently leading the Albiceleste’s charge at the 2026 tournament in North America, recently surpassed Miroslav Klose to take his total tally to 18 goals across six editions.

The GOAT Refuses to Say Goodbye

Despite turning 39 this week, Messi is showing no interest in discussing his retirement from the international stage. When quizzed about the possibility of featuring in the 2030 World Cup, which will celebrate the tournament’s centenary, the Inter Miami star remained evasive but optimistic about his longevity. “I don’t know. The truth is, I’m not thinking about that right now. It seems a bit far off but, as I said, I’m living one day at a time and focused on the present,” Messi told reporters, per ANI.

The veteran forward, who has scored all five of Argentina’s goals in their opening two group matches against Algeria and Austria, insisted his continued participation depends entirely on his physical state. Messi added: “Yes, yes… I will continue for some time, as long as I can contribute, feel good physically, and help my teammates… I will keep playing.” His comments suggest that the dream of seeing him compete at age 43 remains very much alive for football fans globally.

Record-Breaking Exploits On The World Stage

Messi’s current form suggests that age remains little more than a number for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. By netting a brace in the 2-0 win over Austria, he became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history, moving past the previous record of 16 goals. It has been a clinical start to the 2026 campaign, following his hat-trick in the opening match that also made him the oldest player to score a treble in the competition’s history.

The former Barcelona star was humble when reflecting on his milestone, even after missing a penalty earlier in the match. “The truth is that it is spectacular how it happened,” Messi admitted. “Today I had the penalty that I could have increased the score with, but if I had scored the penalty, perhaps I wouldn’t have scored the other two. You never know, but I’m happy with the result.”

Peak Physical Condition at 39

While most players have long since retired by their late thirties, Messi continues to stun observers with his fitness levels. While celebrating his 39th birthday, the Argentine captain shared footage of himself performing perfect pull-ups at the Albiceleste’s training base, demonstrating the rigorous gym work behind his on-field success. This physical dedication has convinced many that he could follow in the footsteps of other sporting icons who played well into their forties.

Pundits are already speculating on what his next club move might be, with former England international Gabby Agbonlahor agrees that a 2030 World Cup appearance is on the cards. Agbonlahor even suggested that if Messi were to make a shock move to the Premier League with Aston Villa, he would lead them to both domestic and European glory.

Defending The Title in North America

For now, the primary focus remains defending the World Cup trophy. Argentina have already secured their place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare, allowing manager Lionel Scaloni to potentially rest his stars for their final Group J encounter against Jordan. Scaloni has been vocal about his desire to keep his captain happy and thriving, noting the positive atmosphere within the squad as they pursue back-to-back world titles.

“We believe it’s the group that gets through both the good and the bad moments. We know that being beside a friend always makes things better. That’s how we all feel, and I imagine Leo feels the same way, based on what he said,” Scaloni remarked. With the knockout rounds looming, Messi’s record-breaking form and elite physical condition suggest that Argentina remain the team to beat as they march toward the final in New York.

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The last time the United States hosted a World Cup, back in 1994, a spike in interest in youth soccer followed. As the U.S. co-hosts the 2026 tournament with Mexico and Canada, a similar increase in interest is expected, but as in other sports, there is a persistent barrier to entry for many kids across the country.

That’s where the Boys & Girls Clubs of America come in. The organization is ready and eager to help not only with promoting the sport but also with increasing accessibility and opportunity. 

(Courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of America)

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“The next generation of soccer players, fans and leaders are already out there in communities across America — they just need the opportunity to step onto the field,” USA goalkeeper Matt Turner told the organization recently. “Boys & Girls Clubs of America is helping open those doors for young people who may not otherwise have access to the sport, and that’s how we preserve the game’s legacy.”

Financial hurdles are among the biggest challenges. The cost of participating in youth sports continues to jump significantly, with a 46% increase in family spending across a five-year period and a correlated decline in youth participation, according to the Aspen Institute’s 2025 Project Play survey. Transportation challenges add another barrier, particularly among low-income families.

To help lower participation costs and promote soccer, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America teamed up with FOX Sports, among other partners, to focus on and improve these key areas: 

• Reducing Cost Barriers to Youth Soccer Participation
• Investing in Soccer Infrastructure to Expand Safe Places to Play
• Training, Supporting and Developing Youth Soccer Coaches
• Increasing Participation and Retention for Girls in Soccer
• Shifting Youth Soccer from ‘Pressure’ to ‘Play’

Recently, FOX Sports — along with its parent company, Fox Corporation — committed a $500,000 investment in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to help improve the level of affordability for more than 26,000 Club youth around the country. 

Other Boys & Girls Clubs of America partners include New York Life Foundation, Buffalo Wild Wings Foundation and U.S. Soccer Foundation.

“You know the World Cup is a legacy. Sports are a legacy,” FOX Sports soccer analyst Alexi Lalas told FOX & Friends in May. “We want to make sure that there are the resources to give people the opportunity to play and kids the opportunity to play.”

Another soccer participation report from the Aspen Institute’s Project Play initiative highlighted that 32% of respondents noted team fees are a major participation hindrance. That number jumps to 41% among low-income families. 

Financial donations and contributions are about more than solely helping lower the cost of participating. They’re also geared toward improving youth soccer development and building pipelines for upcoming generations, which can include life skills like teamwork, confidence and learning from missteps.

As the Boys & Girls Clubs of America noted, this funding is aiding existing programs while increasing community soccer events and expanding to train dozens of youth referees and more than 160 new coaches. 

These and so many other efforts are aimed at helping kids get excited about and involved in soccer, developing the next generation of fans and on-field stars – in the World Cup, and beyond.

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