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World Cup 2026: Messi Rested, England Through & Cape Verde’s Fairytale Continues
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is delivering non-stop drama across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As the group stage wraps up, here’s everything you need to know about the biggest storylines heading into the knockout rounds.
Messi to Start on the Bench for Argentina
Lionel Messi — already the World Cup’s all-time record goalscorer and current Golden Boot leader with 5 goals — will begin Argentina’s final group match against Jordan on the bench. Manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed the decision is tactical, not injury-related.
“Leo will most likely come on in the second half. We talked and agreed that it was better that way,” Scaloni said ahead of the match in Dallas.
At 39 years old, the Argentine captain has been in scintillating form, including a brace against Austria that broke the all-time World Cup scoring record. With Argentina already qualified as Group H favorites, resting their star man makes perfect sense — especially with a mouthwatering last-32 clash against debutants Cape Verde on the horizon.
⚡ Golden Boot Battle: Messi, Mbappe, Haaland Neck-and-Neck
| Player | Goals | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 5 | Argentina |
| Kylian Mbappe | 4 | France |
| Erling Haaland | 4 | Norway |
| Ousmane Dembele | 4 | France |
Mbappe failed to add to his tally in France’s 4-1 win over Norway — a game where Haaland remained on the bench. Meanwhile, Ousmane Dembele thrust himself into contention with a first-half hat-trick, also moving to 4 goals.
England Secure Knockout Spot
England have booked their place in the last 32 after Uruguay’s defeat to Spain confirmed qualification. Thomas Tuchel’s side sit on 4 points following a 4-2 win over Croatia and a goalless draw with Ghana.
However, concerns mount on the injury front. Right-back Reece James (hamstring) will miss the final group fixture against Panama, while Declan Rice sat out training with calf strapping. England fans will be hoping both are fit for the knockout stage.
🇨🇻 Cape Verde: The Story of the Tournament
The most heartwarming story of World Cup 2026? Without question, Cape Verde.
The island nation — population just 525,000 — has become the smallest nation in World Cup history to reach the knockout stage, qualifying for the last 32 ahead of two-time champions Uruguay.
Their campaign featured:
- A heroic 0-0 draw with Spain, where 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha made 7 saves
- A 2-2 draw with Uruguay
- A 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia to seal qualification
Players huddled around mobile phones on the pitch in Houston, waiting for Spain’s win over Uruguay to confirm their spot. “Tears of pride and joy,” said BBC commentator Rob Law. “The moment of the World Cup so far.”
Cape Verde’s reward? A last-32 showdown against defending champions Argentina and Lionel Messi.
Upcoming Key Matches
| Matchup | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina vs Jordan | June 28 | Dallas, TX |
| England vs Panama | June 27 | Orlando, FL |
| Argentina vs Cape Verde (R32) | TBD | TBD |
FAQ
Where can I watch the World Cup 2026?
In the US, matches are broadcast on Fox, FS1, and FS2, with Spanish coverage on Telemundo and Universo. Streaming options include Fox Sports app and Peacock.
Will Messi play in the knockout stage?
Yes — his bench role against Jordan is purely tactical rest. Expect a fully charged Messi for Argentina’s last-32 match against Cape Verde.
How did Cape Verde qualify for the World Cup?
Cape Verde qualified ahead of five-time African champions Cameroon in CAF qualifying. Only 14 of their 26-man squad were born in Cape Verde, drawing heavily on the diaspora — particularly players with roots in Rotterdam and Portugal.
What is the format for the 2026 World Cup knockout stage?
With 48 teams, the top two from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advance to the round of 32. From there, it’s single elimination through to the final.
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