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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. 

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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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Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that star forward Neymar is finally fit enough to feature for a full 90 minutes at the World Cup. The Italian tactician also candidly admitted that the country’s all-time leading goalscorer is deeply unhappy with his restricted substitute role.

Neymar Overcomes Calf Injury

Neymar could finally play a prominent role for Brazil at the tournament after completely overcoming a troublesome right calf injury. The 34-year-old forward has endured a frustrating campaign, registering just a single 14-minute cameo off the bench during the group stage victory over Scotland. However, concerns regarding his match fitness have now been officially dispelled by his manager, handing the Seleção a massive offensive boost ahead of their encounter against Norway at New York/New Jersey Stadium. 

Ancelotti Evaluates Fitness Levels

During an interview with Folha de S. Paulo, Ancelotti offered a detailed assessment of how Neymar is managing life on the sidelines.

When questioned whether he would continue to hold the forward in reserve for a potential extra-time period — having kept him unused on the bench against Japan for that exact reason — the veteran Italian tactician highlighted Neymar’s maturity and ability to dictate matches.

He stated: “The important thing is that he is available to play. How long he will play, nobody knows. He has the experience to manage his minutes and the tempo of the game. When I feel the team needs him, I will put him on [the pitch].”

The former Real Madrid head coach then responded directly to queries regarding the forward’s physical capacity to last a full match: “Yes. He can play 90 minutes.”

Neymar Handles Bench Role

Addressing the emotional challenges of a world-class player being named among the substitutes, the boss offered praise for his exemplary conduct: “He is not happy, but he is behaving very well.

“He is training very well. Neymar is highly respectful, amiable, and loved by his teammates. He is an important character in the squad because he possesses immense quality and is a very humble person. I am very happy with him. And obviously, he wants to play, just as he always has.”

When asked if Neymar had openly demanded an inclusion in the starting XI, the head coach clarified the internal dynamic: “He doesn’t directly say ‘I want to play,’ but that desire is quite clear. And it’s a positive thing. A player cannot be happy sitting on the bench.”

Scintillating Attacking Showdown Awaits

Brazil faces a demanding test in the round of 16 against an in-form Norway side led by prolific striker Erling Haaland. The Seleção enter the clash on a seven-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, heavily relying on the stellar form of Vinícius Júnior. Neutralizing Norway’s physical aerial threat while successfully utilizing Neymar’s creative brilliance at any stage of the match will likely be paramount if Ancelotti’s men are to book a quarter-final berth.

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In the history of the men’s World Cup, in every tournament, there is always at least one fixture that you return to in order to capture the essence of that particular edition. It’s a match stapled in your psyche because it delivered everything that you expected, not just from a footballing perspective, but from a cultural one too.

It’s a matchup of two nations coming together and delivering a majestic spectacle of football and in the end, you forever remember the host nation because it played the role of narrator to one of the best matches you have ever witnessed.

I can think of a few. The final from 2022 in Qatar, for example, between Argentina and France. Or Brazil’s 3-2 win over the Netherlands in the 1994 quarterfinal encounter or the semifinal between Italy and West Germany in the 1970 World Cup, which was the first time Mexico hosted the tournament. 

Again and again, we return to these matches because they become important memories that enhance the notion that this is indeed the greatest sport and the greatest tournament and nothing comes close.  

I think England’s match against Mexico in Mexico City will be one of them. 

The prelude to the match has already given us drama. The discussion about the effects of the city’s altitude. The hotel choice for England’s squad in order to minimize potential disruption. Reports about how weather could disrupt or change the kick-off time.

These teams have something in common (aside from a penchant for serving beans for breakfast). Both are among the most followed teams anywhere in the world, but whose rich history in the sport hasn’t quite measured that reach.

But that’s where the similarity may end, because this match – out of any so far – will be the biggest spectacle at this World Cup. And there are so many reasons why. 

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Let’s begin with the host. Mexico, under Javier “Vasco” Aguirre, has been a revelation and one of the best teams at the tournament. So far, it has won every match leading up to this point without conceding a single goal and with the likes of Julián Quiñones (three goals, one assist) and a determined Raúl Jiménez (two goals), El Tri can hurt anyone at any moment. This, however, is a team that fully represents the concept of togetherness. It is brave, cohesive and extremely difficult to break.

The other component is the stadium itself, as it brings joy and a sense of energetic momentum for the host and ghosts of the past for the visitor. I’ll get to that in a moment.

But first, think about this. In 10 World Cup matches, Mexico has never lost at this iconic ground and only twice has it suffered defeat in international competition in 89 fixtures. The crowd is the most intense audience out of any we will see at this World Cup. The experience of players who have dealt with this before often tell me that it is the equivalent of being lost in an ocean of noise, where the chanting and screaming and the roaring is so loud, not only can you not communicate with your teammates. You can’t even hear yourself think. 

The crowd has been a powerful force for Mexico at the World Cup. (Photo by Cesar Gomez/Jam Media/Getty Images)

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Whenever England has the ball, it will require complete focus because the booing and whistling will be overwhelming. 

There are literally vibrations inside the stadium due to the stomping and as fans sing “Cielito Lindo” and “Olé, Olé, Olé,” you can’t feel anything but an overwhelming sense of domination by one collective voice.

I know England very well. It is a part of my heart. I was accidentally born there to my Peruvian parents (a story for another day) and grew up there after leaving Perú in the early 90s. My youth is because of England. I have many English family members and loved ones and still go back year after year. I cover the Premier League and know English football culture very well.

I can tell any English fan that this will be the most hostile and loudest atmosphere the Three Lions have ever faced and my hope for Thomas Tuchel is that most of this preparation is psychological, not physical. There is also the memory of the past, as this was the venue for one of the most controversial moments in World Cup history — Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” secured Argentina’s win over England in the quarterfinal of the 1986 World Cup. 

England has not been back to Mexico City since then. Until now. 

The altitude remains the most talked-about factor and rightly so. At about 7,220 to 7,352 feet above sea level, the need for oxygen becomes more urgent as it drops 20% per breath, so for athletes, running and finding your energy is harder. 

England players training in Mexico City. (Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images) –>

Remember how I am Peruvian? Growing up, I would go to Cusco (the Inca capital and where my father was born) every year and that’s at 11,152 feet, which is significantly higher, but the point remains. It’s the same reason why Bolivia plays its World Cup qualifiers in El Alto (13,615 feet) because it’s a sizable advantage. 

Now, Mexico City is much lower, but the effects will be present, so England’s strategy needs to be drawn up in accordance to the altitude. There is no room for maybe or maybe not. It must. Tuchel’s priority must be to keep the ball and not chase it, otherwise, this could become an even bigger mountain to climb. This is also where hydration breaks are key. 

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England’s quest to win the World Cup for the first time since 1966 has now arrived at the ultimate challenge: to beat a confident, strong, assured Mexico at their home. In front of their people. With the skies against them. 

Mexico’s quest is to continue on this historic run and to achieve something that has not been done since 1986 and 1970, which is to reach the quarterfinal stage of the World Cup. 

The venue is set. A wonderful city is ready to create an enormous atmosphere. All that is left is for Sunday evening to arrive, and for the gods of nature to leave us alone with their thunderstorm warnings.

We won’t need them. Because the actual thunderstorm will be inside the stadium, created by 80,000 people. And the would-be legends who’ll step on the pitch of one of the game’s cathedrals.

World Cup Related Stories

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Ange Postecoglou was named the new coach of Saudi Pro League champion Al-Nassr on a two-year deal on Friday.

The Australian steps into one of the highest profile roles in Asian soccer, inheriting a squad led by superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. 

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – MAY 21: Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy following the match between Al Nassr and Damac at Al Awwal Park on May 21, 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.  (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)

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“A new chapter.” Al-Nassr said in a statement. “Our best wishes for success to him and his staff in their journey with the global club, God willing.”

The 60-year-old Postecoglou’s managerial career has spanned Australia, Japan, Scotland, and England, with league titles secured at Brisbane Roar, Yokohama F. Marinos, and Celtic. He also won the Europa League trophy with Tottenham in 2025.

His most recent post was at Nottingham Forest last October, when he was sacked after eight games and 39 days in the shortest managerial reign in Premier League history.

Reporting by the Associated Press.

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The round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up, and the quarterfinals bracket is starting to fill out.

As the biggest World Cup ever continues, the round of 16 began Saturday, and Morocco and France were the first teams to punch their tickets into the next round. It only gets harder from here.

So as teams advance and others are eliminated from contention, here’s a live look at the World Cup quarterfinals bracket. 

Thursday, July 9

Kylian Mbappé scored on a penalty kick in France’s win over Paraguay.  (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP via Getty Images)

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Boston Stadium (4 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

The first matchup of the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals is set. And it’s a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semifinals, which Les Bleus won, 2-0.

Morocco defeated Canada, 3-0, on Saturday in the round of 16 matchup at Houston Stadium to advance, and it’s now the first African team to reach back-to-back World Cup quarterfinals. 

While all three tournament co-hosts made it to the round of 16, by virtue of scheduling, Canada is the first home team to be eliminated from contention.

Behind Golden Boot candidate Kylian Mbappé, France knocked out Paraguay on Saturday at Philadelphia Stadium with a 1-0 win. 

Morocco and France will face off in the World Cup quarterfinals game on Thursday, July 9 at Boston Stadium on FOX (stream on FOX One). 

Morocco was ranked No. 7 in FIFA’s latest rankings, while France was No. 3 behind Argentina and Spain, respectively.

Friday, July 10

Spain vs. USA/Belgium

Mikel Merino scored the lone goal in Spain’s win over Portugal. (Photo by Thomas COEX / AFP via Getty Images)

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Los Angeles Stadium (3 p.m. ET on FOX, FOX One)

If the USA advances to the quarterfinals, its opponent for that match is now set. Spain defeated Portugal on Monday, winning 1-0 as Mikel Merino broke the scoreless tie in stoppage time. With the win, Spain is in the quarterfinals for the first time since 2010, when it won the World Cup. 

Spain will take on the winner of Monday’s USA-Belgium match on Friday, July 10 at 3 p.m. ET at Los Angeles Stadium on FOX (stream on FOX One). 

Saturday, July 11

Erling Haaland scored both goals for Norway in its win over Brazil. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

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Miami Stadium (5 p.m. ET on FOX, FOX One)

England has moved on to the quarterfinals for the third straight World Cup. It took down Mexico on Sunday, winning 3-2 at Mexico City Stadium as it played the majority of the second half with just 10 men. England will take on a team that’s making its quarterfinals debut at the World Cup. Erling Haaland scored both goals for Norway in its upset victory over Brazil, which also put him in a tie for first place in the Golden Boot race. England and Norway will battle in the quarterfinals on Saturday, July 11 at 5 p.m. ET at Miami Stadium on FOX (stream on FOX One). 

Argentina-Egypt Winner vs. Switzerland-Colombia Winner

(Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Kansas City Stadium (9 p.m. ET on FOX, FOX One)

The winner of these two round of 16 matches will advance to the quarterfinals and will play on Saturday, July 11 at 9 p.m. ET at Kansas City Stadium on FOX (stream on FOX One). 

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What better way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than having the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia?

The stars will be on display on Tuesday, July 14 (8 p.m. ET on FOX and streaming live on FOX One). Veterans like Freddie Freeman and Chris Sale have been named to their 10th All-Star Game, while superstar Shohei Ohtani is making his sixth straight start and Aaron Judge his eighth.

Below, check out the entire roster and why each player was selected to his league’s roster for the Midsummer Classic (with stats entering play on July 4). 

Click below to navigate this post.
American League: Starters | Reserves | Pitchers
National League: Starters | Reserves | Pitchers

American League

Starters

Langeliers’ 20 home runs are the second-most among catchers this season. The 28-year-old has hit at least 20 homers in four straight seasons now as he’s been named an All-Star for the first time in his career.

Coming off the heels of leading the Blue Jays to the AL pennant in 2025, Guerrero is an All-Star for the sixth straight year. 

Clement’s 22 doubles lead the American League this season. It’s the third straight season that he has recorded at least 20 doubles. 

Witt’s 29 stolen bases are the second-most in baseball this season and tops in the AL. He’s also one of five players with at least 10 home runs (12) and 20 stolen bases this season, and he leads the American League in wins above replacement.

Prior to this year, Bobby Witt Jr. may have been the best player in MLB to not start an All-Star Game. (Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Caminero’s 25 home runs are the third-most in the American League this season. Not only that, but his 70 home runs since the start of the 2025 season are tied with Aaron Judge for the most in the AL.

Trout is an All-Star for the 12th time in his career, extending his record among active players. However, it’s the first time he’s been named an All-Star since 2023, as Trout has had a resurgent 2026 campaign. His .866 OPS is the second-best mark among American League outfielders.

Buxton is an All-Star for the third time in his career, getting the nod as he leads all American League outfielders in home runs (25) and OPS (.898).

Byron Buxton is a big reason why the Twins are contending in the AL Central this season. (Nick Wosika/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

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Judge has been named an All-Star for the sixth straight season, even though he’s been out for nearly a month due to a rib injury. Judge’s .907 OPS would’ve been the best mark among American League outfielders had he played enough games to qualify, and his 12.6 at-bats per home run would be the fifth-most among all MLB players if he had played enough games to qualify this season. 

Álvarez has arguably been the best hitter in the American League this season. His 27 homers are the most among AL hitters, and he’s the only MLB player with an OPS north of 1.000 this season at 1.055.

Reserves

Dingler was a better hitter in his second MLB season than in his first, and in his third, he’s already surpassed not just his career-best home run output, but his career total, with 19. Dingler is slugging .531 and has the second-most catcher framing runs in the majors.

Rutschman’s 2025 was injury-shortened and disappointing, but he’s once again performing like he’s shown he’s capable of. Rutschman has his best offensive numbers since 2023, thanks to hitting .252/.324/.449, and ranks third in the bigs in catcher framing runs, too.

Kurtz is third in MLB this season in OPS among qualified hitters and leads all hitters with 76 walks, eight ahead of Nationals outfielder James Wood in second place. He’s also tied for second in runs scored, trailing only Wood.

In his second season, Nick Kurtz has established himself as one of the best hitters in MLB. (Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)

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Rice hit 26 homers in his first full season in the majors a year ago, and now he has 24 dingers before the All-Star break to lead the Yankees. He’s also tops on the team in OPS+, at 156 – yes, even ahead of Aaron Judge. 

The top two picks from the 2024 MLB draft made the All-Star Game this year. Bazzana went first overall, and Reds right-hander Chase Burns went second. He is second among qualified AL second basemen in OPS over the past month.

If you aren’t familiar with the Tigers’ rookie shortstop, now’s the time: McGonigle is just 21 years old, but has already managed to hit .284/.384/.425 in his first exposure to big-league pitching, and has been exceptional defensively, whether at short or third base. He’s even second in the AL behind Bobby Witt Jr. in wins above replacement.

Vargas never hit well in his two-and-a-half seasons with the Dodgers, but the White Sox tweaked his mechanics and got a league-average campaign out of the third baseman in 2025. In 2026, he’s taken things a few steps further: Vargas has 20 homers, four more than he hit in what was previously a breakout campaign, and is leading the surprise contenders in WAR.

Bellinger’s resurgence in New York has continued into its second year, with him making his first All-Star team since 2019, when, as a 23-year-old, he also earned NL MVP honors. Bellinger’s excellent outfield defense and .351 on-base percentage make him stand out in 2026.

Former NL MVP Cody Bellinger is thriving this season in the Bronx. (Duane Burleson/Getty Images)

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The Tigers are having a tough year, but Greene is as good as always, albeit in a different way. The left fielder has just 11 homers, off his pace of 36 from last summer, but he has already nearly matched 2025’s walk total with 45, and is batting .284/.373/.445. 

There are few steadier hands in the league than Arozarena, who has hit at least 20 homers with at least 20 steals every season since 2021. The Mariners’ outfielder is already at 19 bags in 2026 and has a team-leading .370 on-base percentage.

All he does is hit, and Díaz currently leads the American League with a .325 batting average and 101 hits. He also has an OBP over .400 and is slugging just under .500 – these aren’t empty singles, nor hacking. 

Pitchers

The 31-year-old Baker has a 1.83 ERA through his first 36 appearances this season. His previous career high was 3.49, which came back in 2022.

The Blue Jays have had a tough time repeating 2025’s success, but Toronto’s major free agent acquisition has thrived. Cease has a 2.79 ERA, his lowest since 2022, and leads the American League in strikeouts with 137 in just 90 ⅓ innings.

Chapman’s late-career resurgence continues with his second All-Star nod in as many seasons with the Red Sox. While Chapman’s control isn’t quite what it was in ’25, he still has a 2.10 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 25 ⅔ innings with 17 saves.

Latz has 1.9 WAR this season as a reliever in 33 appearances. His 1.71 ERA is impressive, but his 0.62 WHIP stands out even more.

Messick shined in his 2025 debut, but he’s actually still a rookie this season. He’s also just as good, if not better, than he showed in his brief stint last summer: Messick now has a 2.82 ERA over 24 career starts for the Guardians, and he’s sixth in the AL in ERA+ (146) in 2026.

No pitcher is more responsible for the success of the AL East-leading Rays than Rasmussen, who has a 2.45 ERA over 16 starts and 92 innings in ‘26. Rasmussen’s 1.6 walks per nine is the lowest rate in the majors among qualifiers, and he’s allowed the fewest hits per nine in the AL while also posting the top K/BB.

Ryan has been his typical reliable self in 2026, and it resulted in his second consecutive All-Star nod. Ryan has struck out 5.14 times as many batters as he’s walked, the fourth-best mark in the AL.

Schlittler has not only held down the fort when top arms Gerrit Cole and Max Fried were, respectively, out of the Yankees’ rotation this season, but the 25-year-old righty leads the American League in pitcher wins above replacement thanks to an AL-best 2.08 ERA over 104 innings.

Smith has been a force out of the Guardians’ bullpen and leads the majors in saves with 26. To this point, he has posted a career-best strikeout rate (13 per nine) and is on pace for this third straight season with 100+ strikeouts out of the ‘pen.

Suárez has continued being one of the most dependable starters in MLB after moving to the Red Sox in free agency before this season. His 2.94 ERA would be the lowest of his career since becoming a full-time starting pitcher ahead of the 2022 season.

Varland had a breakout season out of the Twins’ bullpen a year ago before he was traded to the Blue Jays, and he’s been dominant for Toronto in 2026. Varland has a 0.96 ERA in 42 appearances and has struck out 65 of the 181 batters he’s faced.

Wacha has been Mr. Reliable for whatever team he has been on over the past five seasons. This would be his fourth season in the last five with an ERA below 3.40. He leads MLB with 108 2/3 innings pitched so far this season.

Michael Wacha has been his usually reliable self so far this season for the Royals. (Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

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National League

Starters

Baldwin has been a key reason why the Braves have a top-10 offense in baseball this season. The second-year catcher has 14 homers in just 62 games this season, giving him the second-best at-bats per home run (17.6) on the team.

Freeman is an All-Star for the 10th time in his career, which is tied for the second-most among active players. His .293 batting average is the best mark among all first basemen this season. 

Albies has been a force of consistency for the Braves this season. He’s the only second baseman in the National League with at least 10 homers (14) and a batting average of at least .270 (.273).

Abrams has been named an All-Star for the second time in three seasons. Abrams is third in the National League in RBIs (60) and offensive bWAR (3.4), as his 18 homers lead all NL shortstops.

CJ Abrams has established himself as a star this season with the Nationals. (Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

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Muncy has established himself as the top third baseman in the National League this season. The Dodgers star’s OPS is over .100 points better than any other NL third baseman at .873. His 17 homers are also tied for the most among NL third basemen this season. 

Marsh has been one of the best hitters in baseball this season, regardless of position. His .315 batting average and .523 slugging percentage are both in the top 10 among all National League hitters this season. 

If 2025 was considered a down year for Soto, then he’s bounced back in 2026. He’s been one of the lone bright spots for a floundering Mets squad, with his .406 OBP and .957 OPS leading all National League hitters, and 18 homers despite time missed to injury.

Pages has emerged as arguably the Dodgers’ second-best hitter this season, and leads Los Angeles in wins above replacement. He’s in the top 10 in the National League in doubles (21) and RBIs (62), and leads the majors in defensive WAR.

Ohtani is having another superstar season at the plate. He’s second in the National League in OPS (.927) and ninth in home runs (18). Ohtani also leads all players in fWAR (5.8), with his stellar season on the mound helping to boost that number. 

Reserves

Since getting traded to the Brewers ahead of the 2023 season, Contreras has been one of the best catchers in baseball. His dependability stands out. He has played at least 150 games in each of the last two seasons and has appeared in 82 of the Brewers’ 86 games entering Saturday.

Goodman was already an excellent hitter, but his power game has gone to the next level. He hit a career-high 31 homers in 202, and is already at 27 this summer, second behind Kyle Schwarber.

Olson is now a four-time All-Star after hitting 22 homers and posting the eighth-best OPS in the National League through July 3. The 32-year-old first baseman is a huge part of the Braves’ first-place play in 2026. 

Harper makes his return as an All-Star with his first nod since 2024 and third with Philadelphia. Harper has 20 home runs (fifth in the NL), a .374 on-base percentage (tied for 10th), .532 slugging (sixth in the NL) and ranks 10th in adjusted OPS+ (141).

Arráez is in the midst of a bounce-back season, hitting .326 with an .825 OPS. His current .465 slugging percentage would be the second highest of his career.

It’s July 4, and López has already had his best season in the majors. MLB’s batting average leader – he’s hitting .337 – is also leading the majors in hits with 117, and ranks sixth in the NL in wins above replacement and ninth in OPS+.

Otto Lopez has been the key man for the Miami Marlins, who are surprisingly in playoff contention. (Jasen Vinlove/Miami Marlins/Getty Images)

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The 22-year-old Stewart showed signs of being a potential difference-maker last season in just 18 games. So far this season, he has 17 home runs while splitting time between first and third base. He has made 27 starts at the hot corner and 47 at first base – and five more at second base.

Crow-Armstrong was a mess at the start of the season – dating back to the last All-Star Game – but you’d never know it looking at what he’s done since. PCA leads the majors in wins above replacement both because of an indescribably great glove in center, and because he’s now hitting .287/.374/.526 with 19 homers despite an extended slow start.

Carroll is one of the stars of the game, and the 25-year-old has now made his third All-Star team in four seasons. He is leading the majors in triples for the third season in a row with 10, and has 30 other extra-base hits, too. He’s also having his best defensive season in the majors.

The power potential was always there for Walker, and he realized it in 2026. He’s leading the NL in RBIs with 63, and got there with 19 homers and the senior circuit’s seventh-best adjusted OPS+ (143).

Wood cut his strikeout rate down a couple of percentage points, and the results have been stunning: Wood now leads the NL in walks with 66, as well as total bases with 182, thanks to 22 doubles and homers each, with a triple for good measure.

James Wood leads MLB in runs scored amidst a star-making season in Washington. (Natalie Reid/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

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Schwarber has continued his torrid home run pace from 2025, and leads the majors as the only player to hit 30 this season. Schwarber’s .570 slugging percentage ranks first in the NL, too, and he’s hitting a home run a league-best every 10.5 at-bats.

Pitchers

Burns showed promise in 2025 when he struck out 13.9 batters per nine in 43 ⅓ innings as a rookie, and that promise has been delivered upon this summer. The 23-year-old right-hander has a 2.40 ERA that ranks fifth in a stacked NL, and he’s behind only Cristopher Sánchez in pitcher WAR.

The Phillies acquired closer Duran to anchor their bullpen last summer, and now he’s done that so well that he’s made his first All-Star team. Duran is leading the National League in games finished (30) and is tied with Mason Miller for the most saves (21), and has done this with a 1.52 ERA.

Iglesias is 12 years into his career, and this is his first All-Star nomination. All it took was one of the best relievers around getting even better: he has a 1.53 ERA and 32 strikeouts in 29 ⅓ innings against a single homer and just six walks.

Raisel Iglesias has had plenty of save opportunities for the first-place Braves this season. (Brett Davis/Getty Images)

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Meyer’s 2.53 ERA ranks sixth in the NL and eighth in the majors, and he got there by cutting way down on the homers while striking out a career-best 26.3% of batters faced.

Miller has just two pitches, but one of them goes well over 100 mph and the other moves in an impossible way. The result? A 0.78 ERA and nearly twice as many strikeouts (66) as innings (34 ⅔), leading to an NL-best 21 saves.

Misiorowski was a late surprise addition to the NL All-Star squad in his rookie 2025, but there’s no question as to his making it this time around. He’s struck out a league-best 156 batters in 104 innings, and his 1.47 ERA is the fifth-best in the last 50 years through 17 starts. Oh, and he’s the only starter to have ever thrown a pitch of at least 105 mph.

The 33-year-old southpaw has had a resurgent season that is on pace to be the best of his career. Rodríguez’s 2.21 ERA would be by far the best of his career, and his 1.18 WHIP is a massive improvement from his 1.54 mark last season.

The 6-foot-6 lefty once made seven straight All-Star teams, and has a new streak going late in his career: This marks his third All-Star nod in three tries with the Braves. Sale’s 2.10 ERA is third in the NL and fourth in the majors, and he’s still striking out five times as many batters as he walks, even at 37.

Sánchez leads the majors with 117 innings and a 5.91 K/BB. He led MLB in pitcher wins above replacement a year ago, and, despite the performance of Misiorowski and other aces around the league, he’s tops in that stat again this year.

The reigning NL Cy Young winner is having a down year. For Skenes, though, that means he has “just” a 3.62 ERA and the third-best K/BB in the NL. This is his third All-Star team in as many seasons.

Webb has defined consistency over the past six seasons. His lowest ERA in that span was 2.90, and his highest entering this season was 3.47. That makes his 3.66 ERA this season a bit of an abnormality, but his 3.31 FIP indicates better results are around the corner.

Yamamoto’s strikeouts are down, but his walks are, too: his K/BB is even better thanks to this, and he’s second in the NL and fifth in the majors in walks per nine at 1.71, leading to the No. 7 ERA in the NL (2.67).

How to Watch the 2026 MLB All-Star Game

The 2026 MLB All-Star Game is Tuesday, July 14, with first pitch at 8 p.m. ET on FOX, live from Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Watch the MLB All-Star Game on FOX One for live and on-demand streaming.

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