World Cup 2026 bracket: Who has advanced to the knockout round? The 2026 World Cup is now officially in its second week, and some teams are starting to play their second matches of group play.Which means some teams are already clinching spots in the knockout round.With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams for the 2026 edition, the knockout round begins with the Round of 32, instead of the familiar Round of 16. That means that, beyond the top two teams in each group advancing to the knockout portion of the tournament, the eight best third-place teams are also advancing. We are tracking the third-place standings here if you are looking to see what teams are still in the running despite sitting in third place.As far as teams that have clinched, read on.Mexico became the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32, thanks to Thursday night’s 1-0 win over South Korea. Mexico opened the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa, and when South Africa and Czechia played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, it opened the door for the winner of Thursday night’s match to win Group A.After a scoreless first half, Luis Romo took advantage of a miscue from South Korea keeper Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with a teammate in the box and lost the ball, giving Romo a chance to give Mexico the lead.Then the hero was Raúl Rangel, as Mexico’s keeper made a pair of brilliant saves in the closing stages to deny South Korea the equalizer:El Tri are not only the winners of Group A and set to play a third-place team from Group C/E/F/H/I, but they will also stay in Mexico for the Round of 32, as that match will be held in Mexico City.One host team became the first nation to book a spot in the Round of 32 on Thursday night, when Mexico’s win over South Korea secured Group A.Friday, the United States joined them as the second team through to the Round of 32.The 2-0 win over Australia guarantees that the United States will finish as one of the top two teams in Group D. And by the end of the night, the United States may be the winners of Group D, depending on how the late match between Paraguay and Türkiye finishes. If Türkiye lose or draw against Paraguay, then the United States will win Group D, and be locked into a match against a third-place team in the Round of 32.The 2-0 win was also the USMNT’s first shutout since a 2-0 win in a friendly against Japan last September.Update: With Paraguay winning on Friday night, the United States clinched Group D.Germany’s 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday clinched a spot in the knockout round as one of the top two teams out of Group E. Ivory Coast scored first, taking a 1-0 lead in the 30th minute on a Franck Kessié goal. They carried that lead into the second half before Deniz Undav evened it at 1 in the 68th minute. A draw looked likely before Undav managed another goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time.They won Group E later in the evening when Curaçao managed a draw against Ecuador. It marked the first time Curaçao has earned a point in the World Cup. Goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves, which is the most by any goalkeeper in 90 minutes of a World Cup match since records began in 1966.Lionel Messi made history on Monday against Austria, as his left-footed strike put the living legend atop the list of all-time goal scorers in World Cup history.It also clinched a spot in the Round of 32 for Argentina.With the 2-0 win – Messi added a second goal late in the contest to ice the match – Argentina is guaranteed to finish in one of the top two spots in Group J, and a visit to the knockout round awaits. Argentina could clinch the group later tonight, and a match against a third-place team, if Jordan loses or draws against Algeria in the other match in Group J today.Update: With Jordan’s loss to Algeria, Algeria has clinched Group J.It took a little longer than expected, due to a lengthy weather delay, but France punched their ticket to the Round of 32 with a convincing win 3-0 against Iraq in Philadelphia.Kylian Mbappé’s first goal of the match, coming in the first half, was all France would need on this day. But following a long halftime break, Mbappé and company added two more in the second half, as the French star continued climbing the record books.France is now guaranteed a spot in the Round of 32 as one of the top two teams out of Group I. But they cannot clinch the group until their final match of group play, when they take on Erling Haaland and Norway later this week.Norway qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1998, and now they are through to the Round of 32 thanks to Monday’s 3-2 win over Senegal.Erling Haaland’s first goal of the match gave Norway a 2-0 lead, but Senegal clawed a goal back, thanks to a lovely bit of skill from Ismaïla Sarr. But Haaland scored again, a right-footed deflection after a splendid reaction and turn, giving Norway a 3-1 lead in the second half.Norway is guaranteed to be one of the top two teams out of Group I, but the job is not done. Friday’s heavyweight clash with France will determine the winner of the group. If there is a winner of that match, that team will claim Group I. If the match ends in a draw it will be decided by tiebreakers, where at the moment France has the advantage.Colombia’s 1-0 win over DR Congo late Tuesday clinched a spot in the Round of 32. Colombia heads to the final day of group play in Group K guaranteed to finish as one of the top two teams in the group.Colombia can still win the group and book a spot against a third-place team in the Round of 32, with a win or a draw against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal next Saturday.Rubén Vargas found the back of the net almost immediately after halftime, giving Switzerland a 1-0 lead over Canada.That put the Swiss on a path to winning Group B, and a goal from Johan Manzambi in the 57th minute gave Switzerland a two-goal lead, and eventually held up to clinch both the match, and Group B, for Switzerland.The Swiss will now get to stay in Vancouver, as they will meet a third-place team from Group E, F, G, I or J in the same stadium on July 2.Canada began play on Tuesday needing a win or a draw against Switzerland to win Group B, but goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi early in the second half propelled Switzerland to a 2-1 victory. Promise David found the back of the net with a lovely first-touch goal with his right foot in the 76th minute, but Canada could not complete the comeback.Even with the loss, Canada clinched the second spot in Group B thanks to the goal differential tiebreaker against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who beat Qatar. That means Canada finishes second in the group, and they will take on the second-place team from Group A, which will be determined later Wednesday night.Brazil booked a spot in the Round of 32 with Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Brazil. A pair of first-half goals from Vini Jr. gave Brazil a 2-0 lead at the halftime break, and Matheus Cunha scored in the 60th minute to provide some insurance.In addition, Neymar came off the bench to replace Cunha in the 76th minute, for his first action of this World Cup.The win was also enough to clinch the top spot in Group C, as Brazil’s goal differential was enough to finish above Morocco. As such, Brazil will meet the second-place team from Group F – either the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden – in the Round of 32.Morocco’s 4-2 win over Haiti was not enough to catch Brazil in Group C, but the side moves on to the Round of 32 as the second-place team in the group. They will face the winners of Group F in Monterrey on June 29.In perhaps the biggest twist of Wednesday’s action South Africa clinched the second spot in Group A.For the first time, South Africa is heading to the knockout round. Despite entering Wednesday’s matches sitting in fourth place in Group A, their 1-0 win over South Korea gave them a chance to advance as the second-place team in the group. Then, when Mexico beat Czechia, it locked up that second spot.South Africa will face the second-place team from Group B in the Round of 32.With a 2-0 win over Curaçao, Ivory Coast clinched the second spot in Group E. They will face the runner-up in Group I, which will likely come down to the massive tilt between Norway and France later this week.Ecuador’s 2-1 win over Germany was enough for the South American side to become the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32 as a third-place team. The win moved Ecuador to the top of the standings among third-place teams, ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina on tiebreakers due to goal differential.Even if the remaining third-place teams all win their matches, Ecuador will only drop to eighth among the third-place teams, enough to advance to the Round of 32. #World #Cup #bracket #advanced #knockout

World Cup 2026 bracket: Who has advanced to the knockout round?
The 2026 World Cup is now officially in its second week, and some teams are starting to play their second matches of group play.
Which means some teams are already clinching spots in the knockout round.
With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams for the 2026 edition, the knockout round begins with the Round of 32, instead of the familiar Round of 16. That means that, beyond the top two teams in each group advancing to the knockout portion of the tournament, the eight best third-place teams are also advancing. We are tracking the third-place standings here if you are looking to see what teams are still in the running despite sitting in third place.
As far as teams that have clinched, read on.
Mexico became the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32, thanks to Thursday night’s 1-0 win over South Korea. Mexico opened the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa, and when South Africa and Czechia played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, it opened the door for the winner of Thursday night’s match to win Group A.
After a scoreless first half, Luis Romo took advantage of a miscue from South Korea keeper Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with a teammate in the box and lost the ball, giving Romo a chance to give Mexico the lead.
Then the hero was Raúl Rangel, as Mexico’s keeper made a pair of brilliant saves in the closing stages to deny South Korea the equalizer:
El Tri are not only the winners of Group A and set to play a third-place team from Group C/E/F/H/I, but they will also stay in Mexico for the Round of 32, as that match will be held in Mexico City.
One host team became the first nation to book a spot in the Round of 32 on Thursday night, when Mexico’s win over South Korea secured Group A.
Friday, the United States joined them as the second team through to the Round of 32.
The 2-0 win over Australia guarantees that the United States will finish as one of the top two teams in Group D. And by the end of the night, the United States may be the winners of Group D, depending on how the late match between Paraguay and Türkiye finishes. If Türkiye lose or draw against Paraguay, then the United States will win Group D, and be locked into a match against a third-place team in the Round of 32.
The 2-0 win was also the USMNT’s first shutout since a 2-0 win in a friendly against Japan last September.
Update: With Paraguay winning on Friday night, the United States clinched Group D.
Germany’s 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday clinched a spot in the knockout round as one of the top two teams out of Group E. Ivory Coast scored first, taking a 1-0 lead in the 30th minute on a Franck Kessié goal. They carried that lead into the second half before Deniz Undav evened it at 1 in the 68th minute. A draw looked likely before Undav managed another goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
They won Group E later in the evening when Curaçao managed a draw against Ecuador. It marked the first time Curaçao has earned a point in the World Cup. Goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves, which is the most by any goalkeeper in 90 minutes of a World Cup match since records began in 1966.
Lionel Messi made history on Monday against Austria, as his left-footed strike put the living legend atop the list of all-time goal scorers in World Cup history.
It also clinched a spot in the Round of 32 for Argentina.
With the 2-0 win – Messi added a second goal late in the contest to ice the match – Argentina is guaranteed to finish in one of the top two spots in Group J, and a visit to the knockout round awaits. Argentina could clinch the group later tonight, and a match against a third-place team, if Jordan loses or draws against Algeria in the other match in Group J today.
Update: With Jordan’s loss to Algeria, Algeria has clinched Group J.
It took a little longer than expected, due to a lengthy weather delay, but France punched their ticket to the Round of 32 with a convincing win 3-0 against Iraq in Philadelphia.
Kylian Mbappé’s first goal of the match, coming in the first half, was all France would need on this day. But following a long halftime break, Mbappé and company added two more in the second half, as the French star continued climbing the record books.
France is now guaranteed a spot in the Round of 32 as one of the top two teams out of Group I. But they cannot clinch the group until their final match of group play, when they take on Erling Haaland and Norway later this week.
Norway qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1998, and now they are through to the Round of 32 thanks to Monday’s 3-2 win over Senegal.
Erling Haaland’s first goal of the match gave Norway a 2-0 lead, but Senegal clawed a goal back, thanks to a lovely bit of skill from Ismaïla Sarr. But Haaland scored again, a right-footed deflection after a splendid reaction and turn, giving Norway a 3-1 lead in the second half.
Norway is guaranteed to be one of the top two teams out of Group I, but the job is not done. Friday’s heavyweight clash with France will determine the winner of the group. If there is a winner of that match, that team will claim Group I. If the match ends in a draw it will be decided by tiebreakers, where at the moment France has the advantage.
Colombia’s 1-0 win over DR Congo late Tuesday clinched a spot in the Round of 32. Colombia heads to the final day of group play in Group K guaranteed to finish as one of the top two teams in the group.
Colombia can still win the group and book a spot against a third-place team in the Round of 32, with a win or a draw against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal next Saturday.
Rubén Vargas found the back of the net almost immediately after halftime, giving Switzerland a 1-0 lead over Canada.
That put the Swiss on a path to winning Group B, and a goal from Johan Manzambi in the 57th minute gave Switzerland a two-goal lead, and eventually held up to clinch both the match, and Group B, for Switzerland.
The Swiss will now get to stay in Vancouver, as they will meet a third-place team from Group E, F, G, I or J in the same stadium on July 2.
Canada began play on Tuesday needing a win or a draw against Switzerland to win Group B, but goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi early in the second half propelled Switzerland to a 2-1 victory. Promise David found the back of the net with a lovely first-touch goal with his right foot in the 76th minute, but Canada could not complete the comeback.
Even with the loss, Canada clinched the second spot in Group B thanks to the goal differential tiebreaker against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who beat Qatar. That means Canada finishes second in the group, and they will take on the second-place team from Group A, which will be determined later Wednesday night.
Brazil booked a spot in the Round of 32 with Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Brazil. A pair of first-half goals from Vini Jr. gave Brazil a 2-0 lead at the halftime break, and Matheus Cunha scored in the 60th minute to provide some insurance.
In addition, Neymar came off the bench to replace Cunha in the 76th minute, for his first action of this World Cup.
The win was also enough to clinch the top spot in Group C, as Brazil’s goal differential was enough to finish above Morocco. As such, Brazil will meet the second-place team from Group F – either the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden – in the Round of 32.
Morocco’s 4-2 win over Haiti was not enough to catch Brazil in Group C, but the side moves on to the Round of 32 as the second-place team in the group. They will face the winners of Group F in Monterrey on June 29.
In perhaps the biggest twist of Wednesday’s action South Africa clinched the second spot in Group A.
For the first time, South Africa is heading to the knockout round. Despite entering Wednesday’s matches sitting in fourth place in Group A, their 1-0 win over South Korea gave them a chance to advance as the second-place team in the group. Then, when Mexico beat Czechia, it locked up that second spot.
South Africa will face the second-place team from Group B in the Round of 32.
With a 2-0 win over Curaçao, Ivory Coast clinched the second spot in Group E. They will face the runner-up in Group I, which will likely come down to the massive tilt between Norway and France later this week.
Ecuador’s 2-1 win over Germany was enough for the South American side to become the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32 as a third-place team. The win moved Ecuador to the top of the standings among third-place teams, ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina on tiebreakers due to goal differential.
Even if the remaining third-place teams all win their matches, Ecuador will only drop to eighth among the third-place teams, enough to advance to the Round of 32.
#World #Cup #bracket #advanced #knockout

Sports news soccer June 25, 2026

The 2026 World Cup is now officially in its second week, and some teams are starting to play their second matches of group play.

Which means some teams are already clinching spots in the knockout round.

With the World Cup expanding to 48 teams for the 2026 edition, the knockout round begins with the Round of 32, instead of the familiar Round of 16. That means that, beyond the top two teams in each group advancing to the knockout portion of the tournament, the eight best third-place teams are also advancing. We are tracking the third-place standings here if you are looking to see what teams are still in the running despite sitting in third place.

As far as teams that have clinched, read on.

Mexico became the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32, thanks to Thursday night’s 1-0 win over South Korea. Mexico opened the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa, and when South Africa and Czechia played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day, it opened the door for the winner of Thursday night’s match to win Group A.

After a scoreless first half, Luis Romo took advantage of a miscue from South Korea keeper Kim Seung-gyu, who collided with a teammate in the box and lost the ball, giving Romo a chance to give Mexico the lead.

Then the hero was Raúl Rangel, as Mexico’s keeper made a pair of brilliant saves in the closing stages to deny South Korea the equalizer:

El Tri are not only the winners of Group A and set to play a third-place team from Group C/E/F/H/I, but they will also stay in Mexico for the Round of 32, as that match will be held in Mexico City.

One host team became the first nation to book a spot in the Round of 32 on Thursday night, when Mexico’s win over South Korea secured Group A.

Friday, the United States joined them as the second team through to the Round of 32.

The 2-0 win over Australia guarantees that the United States will finish as one of the top two teams in Group D. And by the end of the night, the United States may be the winners of Group D, depending on how the late match between Paraguay and Türkiye finishes. If Türkiye lose or draw against Paraguay, then the United States will win Group D, and be locked into a match against a third-place team in the Round of 32.

The 2-0 win was also the USMNT’s first shutout since a 2-0 win in a friendly against Japan last September.

Update: With Paraguay winning on Friday night, the United States clinched Group D.

Germany’s 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday clinched a spot in the knockout round as one of the top two teams out of Group E. Ivory Coast scored first, taking a 1-0 lead in the 30th minute on a Franck Kessié goal. They carried that lead into the second half before Deniz Undav evened it at 1 in the 68th minute. A draw looked likely before Undav managed another goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time.

They won Group E later in the evening when Curaçao managed a draw against Ecuador. It marked the first time Curaçao has earned a point in the World Cup. Goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves, which is the most by any goalkeeper in 90 minutes of a World Cup match since records began in 1966.

Lionel Messi made history on Monday against Austria, as his left-footed strike put the living legend atop the list of all-time goal scorers in World Cup history.

It also clinched a spot in the Round of 32 for Argentina.

With the 2-0 win – Messi added a second goal late in the contest to ice the match – Argentina is guaranteed to finish in one of the top two spots in Group J, and a visit to the knockout round awaits. Argentina could clinch the group later tonight, and a match against a third-place team, if Jordan loses or draws against Algeria in the other match in Group J today.

Update: With Jordan’s loss to Algeria, Algeria has clinched Group J.

It took a little longer than expected, due to a lengthy weather delay, but France punched their ticket to the Round of 32 with a convincing win 3-0 against Iraq in Philadelphia.

Kylian Mbappé’s first goal of the match, coming in the first half, was all France would need on this day. But following a long halftime break, Mbappé and company added two more in the second half, as the French star continued climbing the record books.

France is now guaranteed a spot in the Round of 32 as one of the top two teams out of Group I. But they cannot clinch the group until their final match of group play, when they take on Erling Haaland and Norway later this week.

Norway qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1998, and now they are through to the Round of 32 thanks to Monday’s 3-2 win over Senegal.

Erling Haaland’s first goal of the match gave Norway a 2-0 lead, but Senegal clawed a goal back, thanks to a lovely bit of skill from Ismaïla Sarr. But Haaland scored again, a right-footed deflection after a splendid reaction and turn, giving Norway a 3-1 lead in the second half.

Norway is guaranteed to be one of the top two teams out of Group I, but the job is not done. Friday’s heavyweight clash with France will determine the winner of the group. If there is a winner of that match, that team will claim Group I. If the match ends in a draw it will be decided by tiebreakers, where at the moment France has the advantage.

Colombia’s 1-0 win over DR Congo late Tuesday clinched a spot in the Round of 32. Colombia heads to the final day of group play in Group K guaranteed to finish as one of the top two teams in the group.

Colombia can still win the group and book a spot against a third-place team in the Round of 32, with a win or a draw against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal next Saturday.

Rubén Vargas found the back of the net almost immediately after halftime, giving Switzerland a 1-0 lead over Canada.

That put the Swiss on a path to winning Group B, and a goal from Johan Manzambi in the 57th minute gave Switzerland a two-goal lead, and eventually held up to clinch both the match, and Group B, for Switzerland.

The Swiss will now get to stay in Vancouver, as they will meet a third-place team from Group E, F, G, I or J in the same stadium on July 2.

Canada began play on Tuesday needing a win or a draw against Switzerland to win Group B, but goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi early in the second half propelled Switzerland to a 2-1 victory. Promise David found the back of the net with a lovely first-touch goal with his right foot in the 76th minute, but Canada could not complete the comeback.

Even with the loss, Canada clinched the second spot in Group B thanks to the goal differential tiebreaker against Bosnia and Herzegovina, who beat Qatar. That means Canada finishes second in the group, and they will take on the second-place team from Group A, which will be determined later Wednesday night.

Brazil booked a spot in the Round of 32 with Wednesday’s 3-0 win over Brazil. A pair of first-half goals from Vini Jr. gave Brazil a 2-0 lead at the halftime break, and Matheus Cunha scored in the 60th minute to provide some insurance.

In addition, Neymar came off the bench to replace Cunha in the 76th minute, for his first action of this World Cup.

The win was also enough to clinch the top spot in Group C, as Brazil’s goal differential was enough to finish above Morocco. As such, Brazil will meet the second-place team from Group F – either the Netherlands, Japan, or Sweden – in the Round of 32.

Morocco’s 4-2 win over Haiti was not enough to catch Brazil in Group C, but the side moves on to the Round of 32 as the second-place team in the group. They will face the winners of Group F in Monterrey on June 29.

In perhaps the biggest twist of Wednesday’s action South Africa clinched the second spot in Group A.

For the first time, South Africa is heading to the knockout round. Despite entering Wednesday’s matches sitting in fourth place in Group A, their 1-0 win over South Korea gave them a chance to advance as the second-place team in the group. Then, when Mexico beat Czechia, it locked up that second spot.

South Africa will face the second-place team from Group B in the Round of 32.

With a 2-0 win over Curaçao, Ivory Coast clinched the second spot in Group E. They will face the runner-up in Group I, which will likely come down to the massive tilt between Norway and France later this week.

Ecuador’s 2-1 win over Germany was enough for the South American side to become the first team to book a spot in the Round of 32 as a third-place team. The win moved Ecuador to the top of the standings among third-place teams, ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina on tiebreakers due to goal differential.

Even if the remaining third-place teams all win their matches, Ecuador will only drop to eighth among the third-place teams, enough to advance to the Round of 32.

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#World #Cup #bracket #advanced #knockout

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Deadspin | Timbers, Sounders return from extended break with rivalry clash May 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Paul Rothrock (14) kicks the ball during the first half against LAFC at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images The Portland Timbers will have a fresh face on their bench when they return from the World Cup break to face the host Seattle Sounders on Thursday night in a Cascadia Cup clash. The Timbers (4-8-2, 14 points) parted ways with coach Phil Neville after a 3-1 loss to visiting San Jose heading into the break that extended their winless streak to three matches (0-2-1). Jack Cassidy, 36, who is in his first year as coach of the Timbers’ MLS Next Pro team Timbers2, will take over on an interim basis until a new coach is found. “Jack has impressed in his first year with Timbers2 and (we) see this is the right temporary staffing structure until we complete the coaching search,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said in a news release. The Timbers went 27-31-24 in two-plus seasons under Neville, losing in the wild-card round in 2024 and the first round of the playoffs in 2025. Kevin Kelsy leads the Timbers in goals and is tied for second on the team in assists (three), with Kristoffer Velde adding four goals and three helpers. The Timbers, who are just 1-6-1 on the road, have conceded 28 goals while scoring 22. The Sounders (7-3-3, 24 points) had a nine-match MLS unbeaten run snapped with losses to both Los Angeles teams heading into the break. They took their first home loss of the campaign in a 2-0 defeat to the Galaxy, then dropped a 1-0 decision at Los Angeles FC. Behind defender Jackson Ragen, who was named a reserve for the MLS All-Stars for their match against the Liga MX All-Stars on July 29 in Charlotte, the Sounders are tied for the league lead with only 11 goals allowed. Paul Rothrock has a team-high four goals for Seattle, which has tallied just 17 times, 13th out of 15 Western Conference teams. The Sounders have ruled out U.S. international Cristian Roldan after reaggravating a right quad injury he sustained in training during the World Cup. Roldan didn’t appear in any of the Americans’ matches, including their two played in Seattle. As difficult as that might have been for Roldan, keeping the ultra-competitive midfielder out of a Cascadia Cup match might be just as daunting for the Sounders. “It’ll be impossible. An unforgettable bashing of skulls,” Sounders general manager Craig Waibel joked. “There is going to have to be some rest somewhere.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Timbers #Sounders #return #extended #break #rivalry #clash

#Deadspin #Timbers #Sounders #return #extended #break #rivalry #clash">

mwasimuddin125 0

May 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Paul Rothrock (14) kicks the ball during the first half against LAFC at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

The Portland Timbers will have a fresh face on their bench when they return from the World Cup break to face the host Seattle Sounders on Thursday night in a Cascadia Cup clash.

The Timbers (4-8-2, 14 points) parted ways with coach Phil Neville after a 3-1 loss to visiting San Jose heading into the break that extended their winless streak to three matches (0-2-1). Jack Cassidy, 36, who is in his first year as coach of the Timbers’ MLS Next Pro team Timbers2, will take over on an interim basis until a new coach is found.

“Jack has impressed in his first year with Timbers2 and (we) see this is the right temporary staffing structure until we complete the coaching search,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said in a news release.

The Timbers went 27-31-24 in two-plus seasons under Neville, losing in the wild-card round in 2024 and the first round of the playoffs in 2025.

Kevin Kelsy leads the Timbers in goals and is tied for second on the team in assists (three), with Kristoffer Velde adding four goals and three helpers. The Timbers, who are just 1-6-1 on the road, have conceded 28 goals while scoring 22.

The Sounders (7-3-3, 24 points) had a nine-match MLS unbeaten run snapped with losses to both Los Angeles teams heading into the break. They took their first home loss of the campaign in a 2-0 defeat to the Galaxy, then dropped a 1-0 decision at Los Angeles FC.

Behind defender Jackson Ragen, who was named a reserve for the MLS All-Stars for their match against the Liga MX All-Stars on July 29 in Charlotte, the Sounders are tied for the league lead with only 11 goals allowed. Paul Rothrock has a team-high four goals for Seattle, which has tallied just 17 times, 13th out of 15 Western Conference teams.

The Sounders have ruled out U.S. international Cristian Roldan after reaggravating a right quad injury he sustained in training during the World Cup. Roldan didn’t appear in any of the Americans’ matches, including their two played in Seattle.

As difficult as that might have been for Roldan, keeping the ultra-competitive midfielder out of a Cascadia Cup match might be just as daunting for the Sounders.

“It’ll be impossible. An unforgettable bashing of skulls,” Sounders general manager Craig Waibel joked. “There is going to have to be some rest somewhere.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Timbers #Sounders #return #extended #break #rivalry #clash">Deadspin | Timbers, Sounders return from extended break with rivalry clash

May 24, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Sounders FC forward Paul Rothrock (14) kicks the ball during the first half against LAFC at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

The Portland Timbers will have a fresh face on their bench when they return from the World Cup break to face the host Seattle Sounders on Thursday night in a Cascadia Cup clash.

The Timbers (4-8-2, 14 points) parted ways with coach Phil Neville after a 3-1 loss to visiting San Jose heading into the break that extended their winless streak to three matches (0-2-1). Jack Cassidy, 36, who is in his first year as coach of the Timbers’ MLS Next Pro team Timbers2, will take over on an interim basis until a new coach is found.

“Jack has impressed in his first year with Timbers2 and (we) see this is the right temporary staffing structure until we complete the coaching search,” Timbers general manager Ned Grabavoy said in a news release.

The Timbers went 27-31-24 in two-plus seasons under Neville, losing in the wild-card round in 2024 and the first round of the playoffs in 2025.

Kevin Kelsy leads the Timbers in goals and is tied for second on the team in assists (three), with Kristoffer Velde adding four goals and three helpers. The Timbers, who are just 1-6-1 on the road, have conceded 28 goals while scoring 22.

The Sounders (7-3-3, 24 points) had a nine-match MLS unbeaten run snapped with losses to both Los Angeles teams heading into the break. They took their first home loss of the campaign in a 2-0 defeat to the Galaxy, then dropped a 1-0 decision at Los Angeles FC.

Behind defender Jackson Ragen, who was named a reserve for the MLS All-Stars for their match against the Liga MX All-Stars on July 29 in Charlotte, the Sounders are tied for the league lead with only 11 goals allowed. Paul Rothrock has a team-high four goals for Seattle, which has tallied just 17 times, 13th out of 15 Western Conference teams.

The Sounders have ruled out U.S. international Cristian Roldan after reaggravating a right quad injury he sustained in training during the World Cup. Roldan didn’t appear in any of the Americans’ matches, including their two played in Seattle.

As difficult as that might have been for Roldan, keeping the ultra-competitive midfielder out of a Cascadia Cup match might be just as daunting for the Sounders.

“It’ll be impossible. An unforgettable bashing of skulls,” Sounders general manager Craig Waibel joked. “There is going to have to be some rest somewhere.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Timbers #Sounders #return #extended #break #rivalry #clash

Victor Wembanyama gave NBA fans a good reminder not to overreact to Las Vegas Summer League after the San Antonio Spurs selected him at No. 1 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. Wembanyama’s summer league debut was a dud as he finished with nine points on 2-of-13 shooting from the field. It’s safe to say Wemby’s career would turn out just fine after he led the Spurs to the NBA Finals in his third season at age-22.

Still, it’s hard to shake a bad first impression for rookies entering the league. Fans want to think their new players are bound to be stars, or at least dependable role players. When rookies disappoint in summer league, it’s still a bummer even it means basically nothing for the long-term outlook of their career.

Here are the rookies who have underwhelmed in summer league so far. If nothing else, it will be helpful to look back on this list if and when these players become solid contributors to show future rookies that a bad start to summer league isn’t that big of a deal.

Aday Mara, C, Oklahoma City Thunder

Mara was arguably the biggest winner of March Madness, going from a player typically projected in the mid-20s to a surefire lottery pick after Michigan’s national championship run. The Thunder selected him at No. 12 overall, and his rim protection plus high-level passing ability felt like a natural fit for their system. I was on the Mara bandwagon in the predraft process, but during my conversations with front office people and other writers I started to notice that he was perhaps the most polarizing player in the class. Some people viewed him as a low ceiling center who should be a fringe first-round pick, while others had him in the top-10.

Mara has struggled a bit away from Michigan’s amazing infrastructure at the start of his summer league run. He’s only shot 46 percent from the field through his first four games, which is pretty underwhelming for a 7’3 guy. His touch has looked shaky around the rim, and there are moments of passivity defensively. There are positive flashes on the tape too of course, like this overpowering drive and dunk, and some of his signature passing to cutters on the move. I do think it’s fair to question Mara’s scoring utility if he struggles to get deep post position because of a high center of gravity, and there’s no doubt he has to earn his early minutes on the defensive end. I’m not worried, but the Mara skeptics have a little more ammunition after this summer league run.

Dailyn Swain, G, Chicago Bulls

I had a front row seat at the NBA Draft Combine scrimmages, and was surprised to see Dailyn Swain on the court. The combine scrimmages are typically only for fringe draft picks, and by this point Swain had already solidified himself as a mid first-rounder. Even more surprising was that Swain did not play particularly well in a setting where he should have been the best player on the floor, showing a slow and hitchy release on his jumper and looking a bit lost offensively. The Bulls were undeterred and selected Swain at No. 15, but his struggles have continued through his first couple games in summer league.

Swain shot 3-of-10 from the floor in Chicago’s opener in Las Vegas, then shot 0-of-9 from the floor in his second game and 0-of-7 from the floor in the third game. The Bulls have indicated that they see him as a ball handler long-term, but he’s clearly struggled to handle against pressure thus far. That would be less of an issue if Swain had a reliable off-ball game, but right now his jumper looks as broken as ever. The Bulls did Swain no favors with this roster construction, failing to put a dependable point guard next to him that could handle against ball pressure and get him some easier shots. Instead, Swain has admitted he’s overthinking every move on the court. There have been some flashes of the downhill driving that popped this past season at Texas, but for now it’s clear Swain isn’t a point guard and needs to put plenty of work in on fixing his jumper.

Darius Acuff, G, Sacramento Kings

Acuff had a legendary scoring season at Arkansas, but sharp scouts noticed concerns with process on both ends of the floor. The point guard’s shot profile was pretty mid-range heavy, and while his three-point shooting numbers were excellent in the small college sample, they were more concerning if you include the high school data. Acuff’s real questions came on the defensive end, where he didn’t show much effort in addition to having poor tools. These concerns have continued in summer league, where Acuff has posted underwhelming scoring efficiency and ghastly defensive tape while still showing the talent that made him a certain lottery pick.

Acuff hasn’t done anything to show that his NBA defense will be better than the level he showed in college. So far, lazy closeouts, spacey off-ball defense, and a lack of hustle have been all over the tape. It often feels like he’s not actively engaged in the game when his team doesn’t have the ball. There’s going to be a high bar to meet offensively for a guard who is this poor on defense, and Acuff hasn’t been close to it yet. He’s scored 78 points on 82 shots through four games. His decision-making hasn’t been great as a passer either with 18 assists to 14 turnovers. I was way low on Acuff on my mid-season board before he started to win me over by consistently delivering in big games at Arkansas. Will the Kings ever play in any big games while he’s on the team? I hope so, because that fanbase deserves better.

Keaton Wagler, G, Los Angeles Clippers

Wagler hasn’t made anything look easy in summer league. The No. 5 pick has struggled to create separation off the dribble, he hasn’t been a plus with his playmaking, and he’s basically a non-factor on the glass. Wagler’s 8.2 PER is the worst of any top-10 pick through two summer league games despite getting hot in the second half against Utah in his second game. The athletic concerns entering the draft appear to be valid for now. Wagler just doesn’t have a lot of burst as a ball handler, and even some of his effective drives have been pretty ugly. He got dusted by Darryn Peterson on a couple occasions, including on the No. 2 pick’s poster slam where he struggled to get under a screen. With five assists and four turnovers, he looks better suited for shooting guard than point guard at the moment. Wagler has admitted that leaving Illinois’ five-out system has been challenging, and I suspected that would be the case entering the draft. Wagler is naturally going to add muscle to his thin frame as he goes on in the league, and being in an NBA strength and conditioning program should be very good for him long-term. The Clippers can give him both on-ball and off-ball reps this year, and that should be good for his development. When the off-the-dribble shot-making is falling, Wagler looks terrific. He’s far from a finished product, but Clippers fans should still be feeling encouraged long-term.

Christian Anderson, G, Charlotte Hornets

Anderson should have a shot to be Coby White’s backup as a rookie after the Hornets traded LaMelo Ball, but he’s looked pretty far away from being a real contributor during his summer league run. Through three games, Anderson has been unable to catch a rhythm with his shot while struggling with turnovers and not doing much on the defensive end. Anderson had a reputation as one of the draft’s best shooters, but his inability to play to contact inside the arc means he’s settling for a lot of tough pull-up threes right now, which has hurt his scoring efficiency (43.2 percent true shooting). I liked his live-dribble passing at Texas Tech, but the passing windows haven’t been there yet, and it’s resulted in a 6.7 percent assist rate compared to a 20.1 percent turnover rate. Anderson isn’t too big or too athletic, so it’s hard to expect him to be a monster driving to the rim. That means he’s likely going to have to live off tough shots. It’s a good thing the Hornets are one of the best offensive rebounding teams around.

Nate Ament, F, Milwaukee Bucks

While Brayden Burries has been arguably the most impressive rookie at summer league thus far, the Bucks’ other lottery pick Nate Ament hasn’t looked very assertive or effective. Ament has only scored 21 points in 65 minutes, and just doesn’t seem very comfortable getting into his shot yet. He knocked down a couple threes against the Suns, and focusing on spacing the floor and making an impact on defense is probably his best path forward early in his career. Ament has the frame to be a good defender in time, but he’s just not there yet. His awareness is pretty poor right now, and he can struggle with physicality. As long as Ament is a good three-point shooter, he’ll have some immediate utility on offense, and his defense should improve in time as the Bucks continue to beef him up. Until then, just enjoy the Brayden Burries show, Bucks fans.

#NBA #Summer #League #rookies #struggling #live #hype">

mwasimuddin125 0

Victor Wembanyama gave NBA fans a good reminder not to overreact to Las Vegas Summer League after the San Antonio Spurs selected him at No. 1 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. Wembanyama’s summer league debut was a dud as he finished with nine points on 2-of-13 shooting from the field. It’s safe to say Wemby’s career would turn out just fine after he led the Spurs to the NBA Finals in his third season at age-22.
Still, it’s hard to shake a bad first impression for rookies entering the league. Fans want to think their new players are bound to be stars, or at least dependable role players. When rookies disappoint in summer league, it’s still a bummer even it means basically nothing for the long-term outlook of their career.
Here are the rookies who have underwhelmed in summer league so far. If nothing else, it will be helpful to look back on this list if and when these players become solid contributors to show future rookies that a bad start to summer league isn’t that big of a deal.
Aday Mara, C, Oklahoma City Thunder
Mara was arguably the biggest winner of March Madness, going from a player typically projected in the mid-20s to a surefire lottery pick after Michigan’s national championship run. The Thunder selected him at No. 12 overall, and his rim protection plus high-level passing ability felt like a natural fit for their system. I was on the Mara bandwagon in the predraft process, but during my conversations with front office people and other writers I started to notice that he was perhaps the most polarizing player in the class. Some people viewed him as a low ceiling center who should be a fringe first-round pick, while others had him in the top-10.
Mara has struggled a bit away from Michigan’s amazing infrastructure at the start of his summer league run. He’s only shot 46 percent from the field through his first four games, which is pretty underwhelming for a 7’3 guy. His touch has looked shaky around the rim, and there are moments of passivity defensively. There are positive flashes on the tape too of course, like this overpowering drive and dunk, and some of his signature passing to cutters on the move. I do think it’s fair to question Mara’s scoring utility if he struggles to get deep post position because of a high center of gravity, and there’s no doubt he has to earn his early minutes on the defensive end. I’m not worried, but the Mara skeptics have a little more ammunition after this summer league run.
Dailyn Swain, G, Chicago Bulls
I had a front row seat at the NBA Draft Combine scrimmages, and was surprised to see Dailyn Swain on the court. The combine scrimmages are typically only for fringe draft picks, and by this point Swain had already solidified himself as a mid first-rounder. Even more surprising was that Swain did not play particularly well in a setting where he should have been the best player on the floor, showing a slow and hitchy release on his jumper and looking a bit lost offensively. The Bulls were undeterred and selected Swain at No. 15, but his struggles have continued through his first couple games in summer league.
Swain shot 3-of-10 from the floor in Chicago’s opener in Las Vegas, then shot 0-of-9 from the floor in his second game and 0-of-7 from the floor in the third game. The Bulls have indicated that they see him as a ball handler long-term, but he’s clearly struggled to handle against pressure thus far. That would be less of an issue if Swain had a reliable off-ball game, but right now his jumper looks as broken as ever. The Bulls did Swain no favors with this roster construction, failing to put a dependable point guard next to him that could handle against ball pressure and get him some easier shots. Instead, Swain has admitted he’s overthinking every move on the court. There have been some flashes of the downhill driving that popped this past season at Texas, but for now it’s clear Swain isn’t a point guard and needs to put plenty of work in on fixing his jumper.
Darius Acuff, G, Sacramento Kings
Acuff had a legendary scoring season at Arkansas, but sharp scouts noticed concerns with process on both ends of the floor. The point guard’s shot profile was pretty mid-range heavy, and while his three-point shooting numbers were excellent in the small college sample, they were more concerning if you include the high school data. Acuff’s real questions came on the defensive end, where he didn’t show much effort in addition to having poor tools. These concerns have continued in summer league, where Acuff has posted underwhelming scoring efficiency and ghastly defensive tape while still showing the talent that made him a certain lottery pick.
Acuff hasn’t done anything to show that his NBA defense will be better than the level he showed in college. So far, lazy closeouts, spacey off-ball defense, and a lack of hustle have been all over the tape. It often feels like he’s not actively engaged in the game when his team doesn’t have the ball. There’s going to be a high bar to meet offensively for a guard who is this poor on defense, and Acuff hasn’t been close to it yet. He’s scored 78 points on 82 shots through four games. His decision-making hasn’t been great as a passer either with 18 assists to 14 turnovers. I was way low on Acuff on my mid-season board before he started to win me over by consistently delivering in big games at Arkansas. Will the Kings ever play in any big games while he’s on the team? I hope so, because that fanbase deserves better.
Keaton Wagler, G, Los Angeles Clippers
Wagler hasn’t made anything look easy in summer league. The No. 5 pick has struggled to create separation off the dribble, he hasn’t been a plus with his playmaking, and he’s basically a non-factor on the glass. Wagler’s 8.2 PER is the worst of any top-10 pick through two summer league games despite getting hot in the second half against Utah in his second game. The athletic concerns entering the draft appear to be valid for now. Wagler just doesn’t have a lot of burst as a ball handler, and even some of his effective drives have been pretty ugly. He got dusted by Darryn Peterson on a couple occasions, including on the No. 2 pick’s poster slam where he struggled to get under a screen. With five assists and four turnovers, he looks better suited for shooting guard than point guard at the moment. Wagler has admitted that leaving Illinois’ five-out system has been challenging, and I suspected that would be the case entering the draft. Wagler is naturally going to add muscle to his thin frame as he goes on in the league, and being in an NBA strength and conditioning program should be very good for him long-term. The Clippers can give him both on-ball and off-ball reps this year, and that should be good for his development. When the off-the-dribble shot-making is falling, Wagler looks terrific. He’s far from a finished product, but Clippers fans should still be feeling encouraged long-term.
Christian Anderson, G, Charlotte Hornets
Anderson should have a shot to be Coby White’s backup as a rookie after the Hornets traded LaMelo Ball, but he’s looked pretty far away from being a real contributor during his summer league run. Through three games, Anderson has been unable to catch a rhythm with his shot while struggling with turnovers and not doing much on the defensive end. Anderson had a reputation as one of the draft’s best shooters, but his inability to play to contact inside the arc means he’s settling for a lot of tough pull-up threes right now, which has hurt his scoring efficiency (43.2 percent true shooting). I liked his live-dribble passing at Texas Tech, but the passing windows haven’t been there yet, and it’s resulted in a 6.7 percent assist rate compared to a 20.1 percent turnover rate. Anderson isn’t too big or too athletic, so it’s hard to expect him to be a monster driving to the rim. That means he’s likely going to have to live off tough shots. It’s a good thing the Hornets are one of the best offensive rebounding teams around.
Nate Ament, F, Milwaukee Bucks
While Brayden Burries has been arguably the most impressive rookie at summer league thus far, the Bucks’ other lottery pick Nate Ament hasn’t looked very assertive or effective. Ament has only scored 21 points in 65 minutes, and just doesn’t seem very comfortable getting into his shot yet. He knocked down a couple threes against the Suns, and focusing on spacing the floor and making an impact on defense is probably his best path forward early in his career. Ament has the frame to be a good defender in time, but he’s just not there yet. His awareness is pretty poor right now, and he can struggle with physicality. As long as Ament is a good three-point shooter, he’ll have some immediate utility on offense, and his defense should improve in time as the Bucks continue to beef him up. Until then, just enjoy the Brayden Burries show, Bucks fans.

#NBA #Summer #League #rookies #struggling #live #hype">6 NBA Summer League rookies struggling to live up to the hype so far

Aday Mara, C, Oklahoma City Thunder

Dailyn Swain, G, Chicago Bulls

Darius Acuff, G, Sacramento Kings

Keaton Wagler, G, Los Angeles Clippers

Christian Anderson, G, Charlotte Hornets

Nate Ament, F, Milwaukee Bucks

#NBA #Summer #League #rookies #struggling #live #hype

Malvinas, Maradona and Messi: Argentina draws strength from past and present to defeat England By breakfast, the World Cup semifinal had already begun. Hotel lobbies, elevators and street corners around downtown had become meeting points for two of football’s most passionate travelling nations. Argentinians, draped in sky blue and white, cradled their morning mate long before the first beer found its way into their hands. England supporters, wrapped in the white of the Three Lions, preferred to begin the day at the nearest pub, where breakfast arrived mostly in liquid form.They exchanged smiles, songs and the occasional jab, but beneath the banter was the unmistakable tension that only England against Argentina can summon. This was never just another World Cup semifinal. It was a rivalry that had travelled from Antonio Rattín to Diego Maradona, from David Beckham to Lionel Messi, and was now in Atlanta for the latest battle.Match Report –Argentina beats England to reach finalArgentina appeared to understand the emotional assignment from the opening whistle. There was an extra spring in every stride and greater force in every collision. Its players clattered into challenges, chased lost causes and celebrated tackles.More than four decades have passed since the Falklands War, but in Argentina, the islands remain Las Malvinas, part of a national wound that has never completely healed. The 1982 conflict lasted from April 2 to June 14 and ended with Argentina’s surrender. Six hundred and forty-nine Argentine servicemen, 255 British personnel and three civilians were killed.The dispute has endured across politics, public memory and football. For many Argentinians, an encounter with England cannot be separated entirely from the young men who left for the South Atlantic and never returned.Maradona understood that instinctively. Four years after the war, he scored twice against England at the Azteca, first with the Hand of God and then with perhaps the greatest goal the World Cup has ever witnessed. Maradona would later describe the victory as revenge. For Argentina, those four minutes in 1986 are more than sporting history. They became part of the country’s mythology. Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS

Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS
Maradona’s image has appeared across stadiums in the United States, along with those of Messi, the heir who eventually delivered the trophy Diego had once lifted. His name has been sung from Dallas to Atlanta, invoked not as a distant memory but as a continuing presence.After Argentina’s dramatic victory over Egypt in the round of 16, the players sang and danced in their dressing room to La Cuarta Estrella (The Fourth Star), the anthem that has followed the team through its title defence.“I’m Argentine from the cradle to the grave,For Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s last one,Argentina, I want to see you become champions again.”The words place the Malvinas, Maradona and Messi within the same national story, where sacrifice, memory and football are intertwined.On Wednesday, Argentina played as though it all still mattered.And when the victory was finally secured, there was a connection between the past and present. Giovani Lo Celso and Nicolas Otamendi unfurled a banner reading: “ Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, or “The Malvinas (Falkland Islands) are Argentine.”It was neither an incidental gesture nor an improvised celebration. It was a message delivered after England was defeated again.Long after the final whistle, Argentina’s players and supporters remained united in celebration. The team stood facing the sky-blue-and-white end, singing and dancing with those who had followed it across cities, time zones and thousands of miles. Players drifted towards the tunnel only to return, lured back by another chorus from the stands.For Argentina, England has never been just another opponent. Forty-four years after the Falklands War and four decades after Maradona transformed this rivalry forever, another generation had carried that history into another World Cup final.Published on Jul 16, 2026 #Malvinas #Maradona #Messi #Argentina #draws #strength #present #defeat #England — Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

#Malvinas #Maradona #Messi #Argentina #draws #strength #present #defeat #England">

mwasimuddin125 0

By breakfast, the World Cup semifinal had already begun. Hotel lobbies, elevators and street corners around downtown had become meeting points for two of football’s most passionate travelling nations. Argentinians, draped in sky blue and white, cradled their morning mate long before the first beer found its way into their hands. England supporters, wrapped in the white of the Three Lions, preferred to begin the day at the nearest pub, where breakfast arrived mostly in liquid form.
They exchanged smiles, songs and the occasional jab, but beneath the banter was the unmistakable tension that only England against Argentina can summon. This was never just another World Cup semifinal. It was a rivalry that had travelled from Antonio Rattín to Diego Maradona, from David Beckham to Lionel Messi, and was now in Atlanta for the latest battle.
Match Report –Argentina beats England to reach final
Argentina appeared to understand the emotional assignment from the opening whistle. There was an extra spring in every stride and greater force in every collision. Its players clattered into challenges, chased lost causes and celebrated tackles.
More than four decades have passed since the Falklands War, but in Argentina, the islands remain Las Malvinas, part of a national wound that has never completely healed. The 1982 conflict lasted from April 2 to June 14 and ended with Argentina’s surrender. Six hundred and forty-nine Argentine servicemen, 255 British personnel and three civilians were killed.
The dispute has endured across politics, public memory and football. For many Argentinians, an encounter with England cannot be separated entirely from the young men who left for the South Atlantic and never returned.
Maradona understood that instinctively. Four years after the war, he scored twice against England at the Azteca, first with the Hand of God and then with perhaps the greatest goal the World Cup has ever witnessed. Maradona would later describe the victory as revenge. For Argentina, those four minutes in 1986 are more than sporting history. They became part of the country’s mythology.
Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter. | Photo Credit: REUTERS
Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter. | Photo Credit: REUTERS
Maradona’s image has appeared across stadiums in the United States, along with those of Messi, the heir who eventually delivered the trophy Diego had once lifted. His name has been sung from Dallas to Atlanta, invoked not as a distant memory but as a continuing presence.
After Argentina’s dramatic victory over Egypt in the round of 16, the players sang and danced in their dressing room to La Cuarta Estrella (The Fourth Star), the anthem that has followed the team through its title defence.
“I’m Argentine from the cradle to the grave,
For Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s last one,
Argentina, I want to see you become champions again.”
The words place the Malvinas, Maradona and Messi within the same national story, where sacrifice, memory and football are intertwined.
On Wednesday, Argentina played as though it all still mattered.
And when the victory was finally secured, there was a connection between the past and present. Giovani Lo Celso and Nicolas Otamendi unfurled a banner reading: “ Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, or “The Malvinas (Falkland Islands) are Argentine.”
It was neither an incidental gesture nor an improvised celebration. It was a message delivered after England was defeated again.
Long after the final whistle, Argentina’s players and supporters remained united in celebration. The team stood facing the sky-blue-and-white end, singing and dancing with those who had followed it across cities, time zones and thousands of miles. Players drifted towards the tunnel only to return, lured back by another chorus from the stands.
For Argentina, England has never been just another opponent. Forty-four years after the Falklands War and four decades after Maradona transformed this rivalry forever, another generation had carried that history into another World Cup final.
Published on Jul 16, 2026

#Malvinas #Maradona #Messi #Argentina #draws #strength #present #defeat #England">Malvinas, Maradona and Messi: Argentina draws strength from past and present to defeat England

By breakfast, the World Cup semifinal had already begun. Hotel lobbies, elevators and street corners around downtown had become meeting points for two of football’s most passionate travelling nations. Argentinians, draped in sky blue and white, cradled their morning mate long before the first beer found its way into their hands. England supporters, wrapped in the white of the Three Lions, preferred to begin the day at the nearest pub, where breakfast arrived mostly in liquid form.

They exchanged smiles, songs and the occasional jab, but beneath the banter was the unmistakable tension that only England against Argentina can summon. This was never just another World Cup semifinal. It was a rivalry that had travelled from Antonio Rattín to Diego Maradona, from David Beckham to Lionel Messi, and was now in Atlanta for the latest battle.

Match Report –Argentina beats England to reach final

Argentina appeared to understand the emotional assignment from the opening whistle. There was an extra spring in every stride and greater force in every collision. Its players clattered into challenges, chased lost causes and celebrated tackles.

More than four decades have passed since the Falklands War, but in Argentina, the islands remain Las Malvinas, part of a national wound that has never completely healed. The 1982 conflict lasted from April 2 to June 14 and ended with Argentina’s surrender. Six hundred and forty-nine Argentine servicemen, 255 British personnel and three civilians were killed.

The dispute has endured across politics, public memory and football. For many Argentinians, an encounter with England cannot be separated entirely from the young men who left for the South Atlantic and never returned.

Maradona understood that instinctively. Four years after the war, he scored twice against England at the Azteca, first with the Hand of God and then with perhaps the greatest goal the World Cup has ever witnessed. Maradona would later describe the victory as revenge. For Argentina, those four minutes in 1986 are more than sporting history. They became part of the country’s mythology.

Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Maradona gave Argentina one of football’s defining moments. Messi ensured the story would continue, not as a replay but as another chapter. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Maradona’s image has appeared across stadiums in the United States, along with those of Messi, the heir who eventually delivered the trophy Diego had once lifted. His name has been sung from Dallas to Atlanta, invoked not as a distant memory but as a continuing presence.

After Argentina’s dramatic victory over Egypt in the round of 16, the players sang and danced in their dressing room to La Cuarta Estrella (The Fourth Star), the anthem that has followed the team through its title defence.

“I’m Argentine from the cradle to the grave,

For Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s last one,

Argentina, I want to see you become champions again.”

The words place the Malvinas, Maradona and Messi within the same national story, where sacrifice, memory and football are intertwined.

On Wednesday, Argentina played as though it all still mattered.

And when the victory was finally secured, there was a connection between the past and present. Giovani Lo Celso and Nicolas Otamendi unfurled a banner reading: “ Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, or “The Malvinas (Falkland Islands) are Argentine.”

It was neither an incidental gesture nor an improvised celebration. It was a message delivered after England was defeated again.

Long after the final whistle, Argentina’s players and supporters remained united in celebration. The team stood facing the sky-blue-and-white end, singing and dancing with those who had followed it across cities, time zones and thousands of miles. Players drifted towards the tunnel only to return, lured back by another chorus from the stands.

For Argentina, England has never been just another opponent. Forty-four years after the Falklands War and four decades after Maradona transformed this rivalry forever, another generation had carried that history into another World Cup final.

Published on Jul 16, 2026

#Malvinas #Maradona #Messi #Argentina #draws #strength #present #defeat #England

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