Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has criticized both Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal coach Roberto Martinez following Portugal’s disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Schmeichel described the duo as the tournament’s biggest disappointments, questioning Portugal’s tactics and Ronaldo’s overall impact. While acknowledging Ronaldo's stature, the Danish legend argued that the team has failed to meet expectations under Martinez. The criticism comes as pressure mounts on Portugal to improve their performances and revive their World Cup campaign in upcoming matches. (PC: NDTV)

India's World Cup preparations suffered a setback as Ivory Coast forward Elye Wahi was denied entry to Canada ahead of Saturday's Group-stage clash against Germany. The 23-year-old Nice striker, who featured in Ivory Coast's opening win over Ecuador, is reportedly under investigation in France over alleged spot-fixing linked to a May Ligue 1 match against Metz. French authorities confirmed a footballer was arrested and later released as inquiries continue. Ivory Coast's football federation said it had received no official notice of proceedings but confirmed Wahi could not secure Canadian entry authorisation. He will remain in the United States pending the team's return. (PC: Getty Images)

Austria goalkeeper Florian Wiegele has made FIFA World Cup history by becoming the tallest player ever named in a tournament squad. Standing 2.05 metres (6ft 9in), the 25-year-old surpassed former record-holder Andries Noppert of the Netherlands, who measured 2.03 metres at the 2022 World Cup. Born in Graz, Wiegele progressed through Sturm Graz’s academy, later playing for DSV Leoben, Grazer AK and Czech club Viktoria Plzen. He earned his only Austria cap in a 5-1 friendly victory over Ghana under coach Ralf Rangnick. Despite being Austria’s third-choice goalkeeper, Wiegele has already secured a unique place in World Cup history through his record-breaking height. (PC: Kicker)

Neymar will miss Brazil’s FIFA World Cup Group C clash against Haiti as he continues recovering from a calf injury suffered while playing for Santos in May. The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed that the 34-year-old forward will remain in New Jersey to complete the final phase of his rehabilitation rather than travel with the squad to Philadelphia. Neymar has shown encouraging signs of progress, returning to the training pitch and participating in limited drills with teammates this week. Brazil’s medical staff are reportedly targeting a return during the knockout rounds to avoid aggravating the injury. Brazil opened the tournament with a draw against Morocco and are seeking their first win. (PC: Reuters)

Several stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup are using football’s biggest stage to highlight refugee experiences after fleeing war and conflict. Antonio Rudiger revealed how members of his family escaped Sierra Leone’s civil war, with his brother once hidden inside a rice sack to avoid abduction by rebels. Germany-born Rudiger grew up in a refugee centre after his family was granted asylum. Canada captain Alphonso Davies spent his early years in a refugee camp in Ghana after his parents fled Liberia’s civil war. Other players with refugee backgrounds include Eduardo Camavinga, Victor Moses and Australia’s refugee-born stars, highlighting resilience, opportunity and integration through sport. (PC: X)

Former France star Thierry Henry criticised Cristiano Ronaldo following Portugal’s 1-1 draw against DR Congo in the FIFA World Cup, accusing the veteran forward of prioritising personal glory over team play. Henry suggested Ronaldo’s decisions in key moments reflected selfishness and may have cost Portugal a victory. The result left Portugal with work to do in Group K as they seek qualification for the knockout stage. Ronaldo’s performance sparked debate among fans and pundits, with opinions divided over Henry’s comments. The match highlighted growing scrutiny on Portugal’s captain during the tournament. (PC: Reuters)

Yoane Wissa's journey from surviving a brutal acid attack to becoming DR Congo's World Cup hero has inspired football fans worldwide. The striker scored his country's first FIFA World Cup goal in 52 years, helping DR Congo secure a memorable 1-1 draw against Portugal.   In 2021, Wissa nearly lost his eyesight after an attacker threw acid at his face outside his home in France. After multiple surgeries and a long recovery, he rebuilt his career, starring for Brentford before moving to Newcastle United. His equaliser against Portugal marked a remarkable chapter in one of football's most inspiring comeback stories.  

Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match, with Cristiano Ronaldo enduring a frustrating night. João Neves gave Portugal an early lead with a sixth-minute header, but Yoane Wissa equalised just before halftime.   Ronaldo struggled to influence the game, finishing with 25 touches and three shots, none of which were on target. The veteran forward also won only one duel as DR Congo's defence kept him quiet throughout the match. Despite late pressure from Portugal, DR Congo held firm to earn a memorable point in their first World Cup appearance since 1974.  

England began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. Captain Harry Kane scored twice, including a retaken penalty, to equal Gary Lineker's England World Cup record of 10 goals. Jude Bellingham produced a standout display and restored England's lead shortly after halftime with a powerful run and finish. Marcus Rashford sealed the win late in the match. While England impressed with their attacking football under coach Thomas Tuchel, defensive mistakes allowed Croatia to stay in the contest. The victory gives England a strong start in their quest for World Cup glory.  

India’s ODI series against Afghanistan has sparked concerns over player welfare, with several cricketers struggling in extreme heat conditions. During the second ODI in Lucknow, Afghanistan’s Darwish Rasooli suffered an injury, while Indian batters Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan showed signs of heat-related exhaustion despite scoring centuries. Critics argue that scheduling international matches in peak summer increases the risk of dehydration, cramps and injuries. With a crucial white-ball series against England approaching, concerns are growing over player fitness. The debate has also renewed questions about cricket’s packed calendar and the impact of continuous matches on players and fans alike.