Iran midfielder Mohammad Mohebi has sparked controversy after celebrating his goal with a gun-firing gesture during Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match against New Zealand. Mohebi scored Iran’s second goal in the 2-2 draw at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, helping his side earn a point in their tournament opener. The celebration quickly drew criticism on social media, with some fans calling for disciplinary action from FIFA. The match also saw political tensions in the stands, as supporters displayed pre-revolutionary Iranian flags despite restrictions and staged protests against the Iranian government.  

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a remarkable performance against Spain. The 40-year-old veteran made seven crucial saves to help tournament debutants Cape Verde secure a historic 0-0 draw against the European champions. His heroics earned widespread praise and sparked an extraordinary surge in popularity, with his social media following reportedly jumping from around 50,000 to nearly five million. Vozinha's inspiring display not only secured Cape Verde's first-ever World Cup point but also turned the experienced shot-stopper into an unlikely global football sensation. (PC: Reuters)

Cape Verde Defender Roberto Lopes Nearly Ignored National Team Call-Up After Receiving Invitation on LinkedIn   Cape Verde defender Roberto Lopes has emerged as one of the most remarkable stories of the FIFA World Cup. The 33-year-old, who was born and raised in Ireland and worked as a mortgage advisor while playing part-time football, nearly missed his chance to represent Cape Verde after mistaking the national team's LinkedIn message for a scam. Lopes, who did not speak Portuguese when contacted, eventually accepted the invitation and has since become a key player for the island nation. He recently helped Cape Verde secure a memorable clean sheet against European champions Spain at the World Cup. (PC: AP)

Spain forward Mikel Oyarzabal entered the FIFA World Cup record books for an unusual reason after failing to touch the ball during the opening 30 minutes of Spain’s tournament opener. According to BBC Sport, no player since records began in 1966 had gone that long in a World Cup match without registering a single touch. The statistic highlighted Spain’s frustrating first half and the difficulties faced by the European champions in breaking down their opponents. Despite Oyarzabal’s lack of involvement, the remarkable record quickly became a major talking point among football fans on social media. (PC: Instagram)

Iran and New Zealand played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their FIFA World Cup Group G encounter, with the Asian side showing resilience to avoid defeat. New Zealand twice took the lead, but Iran responded on both occasions to earn a valuable point. The match featured end-to-end action and kept both teams firmly in contention for qualification from a highly competitive group. While New Zealand impressed with their attacking display, Iran’s determination and ability to respond under pressure proved crucial. The result leaves Group G finely balanced ahead of the next round of fixtures. (PC: X)

A Mexican football fan lost his job after a video showing him making a racist gesture toward a South Korean influencer during a FIFA World Cup match went viral. The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, leading his employer to investigate the matter. The company subsequently terminated the employee, stating that his conduct violated its values and commitment to respect and inclusion. The episode has renewed concerns about racism and discriminatory behaviour at major sporting events, with fans and anti-discrimination groups calling for stronger measures to ensure a welcoming atmosphere for supporters from all backgrounds. (PC: X)

    Belgium narrowly avoided a shock defeat against Egypt after substitute Romelu Lukaku made an immediate impact in their FIFA World Cup Group G clash. Egypt looked set for a famous victory after taking the lead and frustrating the Belgian attack for much of the match. However, Lukaku’s introduction changed the momentum, with Belgium finding a late equaliser to secure a 1-1 draw. The result spared the Red Devils from a major upset but raised concerns over their performance. Egypt earned a valuable point and impressed with a disciplined display against one of Europe’s top sides.

Cape Verde produced the biggest shock of the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far by holding European champions Spain to a 0-0 draw in their first-ever World Cup match. The tiny West African island nation, with a population of around 530,000, frustrated Spain with a disciplined defensive display led by 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha. Spain created chances but failed to score, with Ferran Torres hitting the crossbar and substitute Lamine Yamal unable to break the deadlock. The result has raised questions about Spain's overreliance on Yamal and their lack of cutting edge in attack. (PC: NDTV)

Cape Verde produced the first big surprise of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by holding tournament favourites Spain to a goalless draw in their historic World Cup debut in Atlanta. The underdogs delivered a disciplined defensive performance, with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha making three crucial saves to frustrate the Spanish attack. Ferran Torres came closest for Spain after striking the crossbar, while a half-fit Lamine Yamal was introduced only for the final 20 minutes. Spain failed to score in a competitive first half for the first time in 18 months as Cape Verde celebrated a memorable point.  

FIFA is seeking an explanation from Australian VAR official Shaun Evans after he made a controversial hand gesture before Germany's 7-1 World Cup win over Curacao. During a pre-match broadcast, Evans appeared to form an upside-down "OK" sign with his right hand, a gesture that can have different meanings, including an internet prank and a symbol linked by some groups to white supremacist ideology. The incident sparked widespread debate on social media. Anti-discrimination organisations, including Fare and Kick It Out, have sought clarification. FIFA has not issued an official statement but is reportedly looking into the matter.