Ghanaian traditional priest Nana Kwaku Bonsam has predicted a major upset at the FIFA World Cup 2026, claiming Cape Verde will eliminate defending champions Argentina in the Round of 32. Bonsam, known for making controversial football predictions, said Cape Verde has the spiritual strength and belief to defeat Lionel Messi's side. Argentina, one of the tournament favourites, will face Cape Verde on July 3 in a knockout clash. While Bonsam's claims have drawn widespread attention, they remain personal predictions with no sporting basis. The match is expected to be one of the most closely watched fixtures of the knockout stage. (PC: X)

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered the Round of 32 after an exciting group stage, with 32 teams battling for a place in the last 16. Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, will face Cape Verde on July 4 at 3:30 AM IST. Spain take on Austria on July 3 at 12:30 AM IST, while Brazil meet Japan on June 30 at 10:30 PM IST. Other key knockout clashes include Germany vs Paraguay, France vs Sweden, England vs DR Congo and Portugal vs Croatia. Every match is now a knockout, with no second chances. (PC: India Today)

India suffered a shocking 2-0 T20I series defeat to Ireland after losing the second match by one run in Belfast. It was India's first T20I series loss since August 2023. Captain Shreyas Iyer praised Ireland for their performance. He said, "They definitely outplayed us in that department." Ireland scored 154/8 before restricting India to a narrow defeat. Prince Yadav impressed on his debut with three wickets. Tilak Varma scored a fighting half-century, but India fell short. The defeat also ended India's 16-series unbeaten run. India will now focus on the upcoming series against England. (PC: BCCI/X)

England captain Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket. He will play his final match after the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Stokes informed his teammates before the fourth day's play. The England and Wales Cricket Board later confirmed the news. Stokes made his international debut in 2011 and became one of England's greatest all-rounders. He played a key role in England's 2019 and 2022 World Cup victories. As Test captain, he introduced the aggressive "Bazball" style with coach Brendon McCullum. His retirement marks the end of a memorable career.

India’s men’s volleyball team created history by defeating Bahrain to win the bronze medal at the AVC Men’s Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad. The victory secured India’s first-ever medal in the tournament’s history, marking a major milestone for Indian volleyball. Playing in front of home fans, India produced a composed performance with effective attacking, blocking, and defence to overcome the defending champions. The historic achievement highlights the team’s growing stature in Asian volleyball and is expected to boost the sport’s popularity while inspiring young players across the country. 

Lionel Messi came off the bench in the 60th minute and made an immediate impact as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 in their final Group J match at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The captain scored a stunning free-kick 10 minutes from time, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches. Earlier, Giovani Lo Celso gave Argentina the lead with a free-kick before Lautaro Martinez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after a VAR review. Jordan's Mousa Al Tamari pulled one back, but Argentina sealed a perfect group-stage campaign and will face Cape Verde in the Round of 32.  

History was created at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as nine of the 10 African teams qualified for the knockout stage, marking the continent's best-ever performance at the tournament. Countries including Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Algeria, Cape Verde and DR Congo progressed to the Round of 32. Only one African nation failed to advance. The milestone highlights the growing strength and competitiveness of African football on the world stage. Fans and football experts have praised the achievement, calling it a landmark moment that reflects the continent's rising influence in international football. (PC: NDTV)

Austria and Algeria produced what could be the most thrilling match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far, playing out a dramatic 3-3 draw that sent both teams into the knockout stage and eliminated Iran. The Group J clash featured six goals, constant lead changes and a breathtaking finish. Riyad Mahrez appeared to have won it for Algeria with a 93rd-minute strike, but substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed home a dramatic equaliser in the 96th minute. The result capped one of the tournament's most unforgettable matches, with both teams advancing after an entertaining contest played at full intensity from start to finish.

Iran captain Mehdi Taremi has criticised FIFA over the travel and visa difficulties his team faced at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling the tournament "a disaster." Taremi said, **"It's a disaster. FIFA didn't solve our problems,"** referring to the logistical challenges that affected Iran's campaign. The team was based in Mexico and travelled to the United States for matches because of visa restrictions, while some staff members were reportedly denied entry. Taremi said the situation created unnecessary difficulties for the squad. Iran finished third in Group G and now depends on other results to qualify for the Round of 32. (PC: New York Times)

Modern football is increasingly being shaped by immigrants and their families, whose stories have become central to many national teams. From France and England to Spain, Australia and the United States, players with immigrant roots are making a major impact at the FIFA World Cup. An Indian Express report highlights how local community clubs, especially in immigrant neighbourhoods, help preserve identity while nurturing football talent. Coaches and players say the sport offers belonging, friendship and opportunity for people far from home. The World Cup reflects not only sporting excellence but also the diverse backgrounds that have transformed football into a truly global game. (PC: The Indian Express)