The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to produce historic milestones, with Lionel Messi setting a new tournament record through another remarkable performance for Argentina. France's Kylian Mbappé and Argentina's Julián Álvarez also climbed the record books, while England's Jude Bellingham became only the second teenager after Pelé to achieve a notable World Cup knockout-stage feat. The tournament has showcased a blend of legendary experience and emerging talent, with several long-standing records being matched or surpassed. As the competition enters its decisive stages, football's biggest stars continue to shape history and strengthen their legacies on the world's grandest stage. (PC: X)

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has sacked Brendon McCullum as England men's Test head coach, ending the celebrated "Bazball" era. The decision comes shortly after Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket and follows England's disappointing run in Test cricket. McCullum, who transformed England's aggressive approach alongside Stokes, expressed disappointment but said he respected the ECB's decision. He will continue as England's white-ball head coach while the board begins its search for a new Test coach. The move marks a significant transition for England as it looks to rebuild ahead of future Test assignments, including the Ashes. (PC: Reuters)

Minerva Academy created history by winning the prestigious Helsinki Cup in Finland, one of the world's largest youth football tournaments. The Indian academy showcased exceptional skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout the competition, defeating strong international opponents to lift the coveted title. The victory highlights the rapid growth of grassroots football in India and demonstrates the academy's commitment to nurturing young talent capable of competing on the global stage. The triumph is expected to inspire aspiring footballers across the country while strengthening India's reputation in international youth football. It also reflects the increasing success of Indian academies in producing world-class young players. (PC: X)

FIFA has clarified why Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was sent off during the World Cup quarter-final against Argentina despite an apparent case of mistaken identity. The referee initially booked the wrong Swiss player before realising the error through VAR. Under FIFA's Laws of the Game, once play restarts after a caution, the yellow card cannot be transferred to the correct player. When Embolo later committed another bookable offence, the referee had no option but to show him a second yellow card and a red card. Switzerland eventually lost 3-1 as Argentina advanced to the semi-finals. (PC: NDTV)

England captain Harry Kane admitted he is not fully satisfied despite his team's 2-1 extra-time win over Norway that secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Kane said England showed great character to fight back but stressed the team must improve its overall performance if it wants to win the tournament. Jude Bellingham scored both goals after Norway had taken the lead, helping the Three Lions book a last-four clash with Argentina. Head coach Thomas Tuchel also demanded higher standards, saying England cannot rely only on resilience against stronger opponents. (PC: NDTV)

Erling Haaland said Norway's impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign has inspired a new generation despite the team's quarter-final exit. Speaking after Norway's 2-1 extra-time defeat to England, the striker said, "We put Norway on the map," highlighting the team's historic run. Haaland praised his teammates and supporters, saying the tournament had changed how Norwegian football is viewed around the world. Norway reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in decades, with Haaland playing a key role throughout the campaign. His emotional remarks quickly went viral on social media after the heartbreaking defeat. (PC: X)

Julián Álvarez produced a moment of brilliance as Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. With the match locked at 1-1, Álvarez scored a spectacular long-range goal in the 112th minute to put the defending champions ahead. Lautaro Martínez added another goal late in extra time to seal the victory after Alexis Mac Allister had opened the scoring in the first half. Switzerland equalised through Dan Ndoye before being reduced to 10 men. Argentina will now face England in a blockbuster semi-final.  

Lionel Messi was involved in a tense exchange with the referee during Argentina’s FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Switzerland. Frustrated by a decision, the Argentina captain was seen telling the official, “Speak to me properly,” in a moment that quickly went viral. Despite the brief confrontation, Messi stayed focused and helped Argentina secure a 3-1 extra-time victory to reach the semi-finals. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring before Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez struck in extra time after Switzerland had equalised. Argentina will now face England in the World Cup semi-finals.  

Norway captain Erling Haaland strongly criticised the referee and VAR after his side’s 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals. Haaland argued that England’s equalising goal should have been disallowed, claiming the ball struck an overhead camera cable before Jude Bellingham scored. The controversial decision sparked protests from Norway’s players and coaching staff. However, FIFA later defended the officials, stating that Connected Ball technology detected no contact with the camera cable. England’s victory secured a place in the semi-finals, where they will face Argentina in a blockbuster showdown. (PC: X)

Argentina secured a thrilling 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. After a tense 90 minutes ended 1-1, Julián Álvarez restored Argentina's lead early in extra time before Lautaro Martínez sealed the win with a late strike. Lionel Messi played a key role in orchestrating Argentina's attacks, while Switzerland battled bravely but could not withstand the South American side's relentless pressure. The victory sets up a blockbuster semi-final clash between Argentina and England, with a place in the World Cup final at stake. (PC: Reuters)