It was one of those rare World Cup nights when all of football’s biggest stars seemed to be reading from the same script.

Across the United States, records have fallen, milestones have been reached, and some of the greatest names of this generation reminded the world why they defined an era. FIFA World Cup There’s always been a stage for the Giants, but something felt different Wednesday.

First came Kylian Mbappe. Still only 27 years old, yet already carrying the weight of French football history on his shoulders, his two goals against Senegal not only gave France the victory but also the victory. He became Les Bleus’ all-time leading goalscorer.Surpassing a record that many thought would stand for years.

Then it was Erling Haaland’s turn. The Norwegian goal machine had waited patiently for his World Cup debut, and when the moment finally arrived, he wasted little time in making his mark. Two goals against Iraq announced his arrival on football’s grandest stageThe latest chapter in a career that is destined to break every scoring record within reach.

And then came Lionel Messi.

At the age of 38, just seven days away from turning 39, and in his 200th appearance for Argentina, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner put in a performance worthy of the occasion. A brilliant hat-trick against Algeria not only gave victory to the defending champions But he also equaled Miroslav Klose as the leading scorer in World Cup history. Almost two decades after he first graced the tournament, Messi is still rewriting its record books.

Three superstars. Three wins. Seven goals. Countless records. Yet as remarkable as the night was, one final task remains.

cristiano ronaldo dos santos aveiro

For nearly 20 years, the Portuguese icon and Messi have shared football’s biggest stage, pushing each other to heights few athletes have been able to reach. Now as Ronaldo prepares to appear in his sixth World Cup, another piece of history is just around the corner.

When Portugal faces DR CongoRonaldo will have a chance to become the first player to score in six different FIFA World Cups. The Portuguese international has a total of eight goals to his name in the last five editions of the tournament.

The previous World Cup did not go as planned, with Ronaldo scoring just once, being substituted against South Korea, and later being placed on the bench for Portugal’s first knockout stage match against Switzerland. He also failed to score at the 2024 European Championships – the first time this has happened at a major international tournament.

Whereas Messi may have made the record of being the oldest player to score a hat-trick. As for Ronaldo himself, the 41-year-old Portuguese forward will look to get it straight back against 45th-ranked DR Congo. They are playing in only their second World Cup, their first in 52 years, when the country was still called Zaire.

“I wish them all the best,” Congo coach Sébastien Desbrey said with a cheeky smile at his pre-match press conference. I hope he scores, but not against us.

On a night when Mbappe, Haaland and Messi all produced moments of history, the focus now turns to the man most capable of ensuring this becomes a truly unforgettable day for football. The pressure will be immense, but the five-time Ballon d’Or winner will not have faced anything like it before.

He has repeatedly performed well for both club and country. The stage is once again set, the record books await—so which Ronaldo will arrive today?

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Vaibhav Suryavanshi will be back in action at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday as India A take on Afghanistan A in a must-win tri-series. India A are heading into the competition under pressure after their Super Over defeat to Sri Lanka A on Monday and cannot afford another defeat which would end their hopes of reaching the final.

Hosts Sri Lanka A, having won two of their three matches, top the table with four points and a net run rate of 0.494. This has made it a straight fight between India A and Afghanistan A for a place in the final, making Wednesday’s match even more important.

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill (PTI Photo)

New Delhi: Before the second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow, India’s spin bowling coach… Sairaj Bahutule lined Rohit Sharma Amid renewed discussion over the future of the experienced opener. The 39-year-old has suffered a recent dip in form and concerns have resurfaced due to his age, a recent hamstring injury and a minor injury. IPL Return. Rohit could score only 16 runs after being run out in the first ODI against Afghanistan.Despite the scrutiny, Bahutule insisted that Rohit’s experience and leadership remain valuable to the team, especially Shubman Gill Now leading the ODI team.“I think Rohit is definitely an experienced player. He is a champion cricketer. I think he is someone who adds value to this team with his experience, not only batting-wise, but his leadership qualities also rub off on all the boys, including Shubman. So I think it is definitely very, very important to have him in the team, and he is someone who understands each game, who understands what is expected of him and the team, ” Sairaj told reporters. “I think he looks forward to every game and all the work he’s doing it’s like he’s just started playing.”

praise for KL Rahul

Bahutule also praised KL Rahul, who has been in great form across all formats. After scoring a century in the only Test against Afghanistan, Rahul scored an unbeaten 39 off 19 balls in the rain-interrupted first ODI.“I think he is a fantastic player. I think he is a player who adapts very quickly to situations and formats, as he has proved in these two matches,” he said.“I just think whatever number you send him at, he is someone who will perform for you, understand the situation, understand what is required of him at that particular moment, adapt to the conditions and perform. So I think wherever he decides to bat or wherever he is given the opportunity, he will be an important member of the team.”

Portugal have dismissed speculation over Roberto Martínez’s future and insisted the national team coach is focused on the FIFA World Cup. Reports in recent days have revealed that the Spaniard is set to leave the role once Portugal’s campaign ends.

The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has clarified its position amid continued questions before Portugal’s opening match. In an official statement, the federation stressed that both Martínez and the governing body are fully focused on the World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2026: full coverage

An FPF spokesperson said, “The FPF and Roberto Martínez are focused exclusively on the World Cup. The federation and the coaches are unanimous on this matter, as they have said publicly.”

The response comes after multiple reports claiming that Martínez has decided not to renew his contract, which expires at the end of July. While speculation has run high over his future, the Portuguese federation has refrained from commenting on what might happen after the tournament.

Martínez’s future in doubt

Martínez was appointed head coach of Portugal in January 2023, following the departure of Fernando Santos following the team’s unexpected quarter-final exit by Morocco at the 2022 World Cup. The former Everton and Wigan manager arrives after finishing a six-year stint with Belgium, whose campaign in Qatar ended with a disappointing group-stage exit.

The 52-year-old has overseen one major tournament with Portugal so far, with his team losing to France in a penalty shootout in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024. Despite maintaining an impressive record in charge, questions remain over his long-term future.

Reports coming in from across Europe have revealed that Martínez has made up his mind to step down after the World Cup ends. However, it is understood that both the coaches and the federation have agreed to postpone discussions regarding a new contract until after the tournament.

Martínez is expected to face questions on the matter when he addresses the media ahead of Portugal’s opening match. Speculation has also linked former Portugal international Jose Mourinho to the role, with reports claiming a verbal agreement was reached with the recently appointed Real Madrid manager. Before emerging as a candidate for Los Blancos.

Portugal’s World Cup focus

Despite uncertainty over their coach, Portugal remain firmly focused on their World Cup ambitions. Led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo and supported by one of the most talented teams in the competition, Portugal will open their campaign against DR Congo.

This tournament could represent another important chapter in Ronaldo’s storied international career as he continues his pursuit of the major trophy that has eluded him. Portugal will also be hoping to finally convert their reservoir of talent into a maiden World Cup victory.

For now, both Martínez and the federation are keen to ensure the spotlight remains on what happens on the pitch. Any decision regarding the coach’s future is expected to be made only after Portugal’s World Cup tour concludes.

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Nilakshika Silva (ex-Cricbuzz)

Nilakshika Silva smashed a brilliant unbeaten half-century as Sri Lanka recorded a memorable five-wicket win over defending champions New Zealand in Group 2 of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on Tuesday.The win marked Sri Lanka’s first success of the tournament and provided a major boost to their campaign, while New Zealand’s title defense suffered another blow after suffering a second consecutive defeat.Sri Lanka completed the target of 151 runs with one ball remaining. Silva led the innings brilliantly with an unbeaten 54 and found an ideal partner in Kaushani Nuthyangana, whose 24-run knock helped the pair stitch an unbroken 48-run partnership for the sixth wicket to seal victory for their team.Thanks to captain Chamari Athapaththu, Sri Lanka made a confident start. After escaping early chances when she was on seven, the left-hander bounced back and scored 27 runs in just 19 balls. However, his dismissal at the end of the powerplay led to a dramatic change in momentum.New Zealand immediately took advantage and Sri Lanka slipped from 45/1 to 55/4. Vishami Gunaratne scored 17 runs, Harshitha Samarawickrama scored five runs, while Hassani Perera was out after scoring two runs as the chase was in danger of being abandoned.With the innings at a crossroads, Kavisha Dilhari and Silva made significant improvements. The pair added 50 valuable runs to chase down the target and revive Sri Lanka’s hopes. Dilhari scored 17 runs before being run out in the 15th over, leaving the responsibility of taking the team to victory on Silva.The left handed batsman gave a brilliant reply. With Nutyangana, she efficiently chased during the closing stages. Sri Lanka needed 16 runs from the last two overs, but both scored 11 runs in the 19th over and reduced the equation to just five runs in the last over. After this he remained calm under the pressure of winning with one ball remaining.Earlier, New Zealand, batting first, scored 150/6. Their innings got off to a bad start when Isabella Gaze was out after scoring four runs in the opening over.Georgia Plimmer scored 18 runs and made a partnership of 49 runs with the captain. amelia kerrWho once again led from the front. Kerr made 45 and looked to be on his way to a big score before being caught in the deep during the 13th over.After this, Sophie Devine tried to increase the scoring rate and made a good contribution of 45 runs, while Maddy Green remained unbeaten on 18 runs. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers continued to apply pressure and prevented New Zealand from taking full advantage during the latter half of the innings.The Sri Lankan attack produced a disciplined collective performance, consisting of five bowlers. Kavisha Dilhari performed brilliantly and took 2 wickets for 35 runs in her four overs as she played a vital role with both bat and ball.After restricting New Zealand to 150/6 and then successfully chasing the target through Silva’s match-winning innings, Sri Lanka celebrated a historic win that could prove crucial in their quest to make the knockout stage.Brief Score:New Zealand, 150/6 in 20 overs (Amelia Kerr 45, Sophie Devine 45; Kavisha Dilhari 2/35) lost to Sri Lanka 153/5 in 19.4 overs (Neelaksika Silva 54*, Chamari Athapaththu 27; Nancy Patel 2/23) by five wickets.

When the lights go down and the floodlights go off at the Kansas City Stadium on Wednesday, June 17, Lionel Messi will walk out for his 200th match in an Argentina shirt. One of the most iconic footballers to grace the game, Messi will become only the second player to reach the feat after his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.

Two hundred matches is not just a number. It is a reflection of two decades spent meeting the expectations of a football-mad nation, surviving generations of tactical changes, heartbreaks and triumphs, and through it all remaining central to Argentina’s identity. From teenager making his debut in 2005 to captain who won the World Cup in Qatar, Messi’s international journey has mirrored Argentina’s own transformation.

Rivalry between Messi and Ronaldowhich shaped world football in the 2010s, still exists in large numbers. When Argentina’s legendary players walked off the field for Argentina’s opening match FIFA World Cup Against Algeria in 2026, he will do so as a world champion, while Ronaldo will continue to chase that elusive prize at the age of 41.

And perhaps this is what makes this World Cup different for Messi.

Argentina vs Algeria: When to watch?

Argentina vs Algeria will be played on Wednesday at 6:30 AM IST. The match will be telecast in India on United Sports and livestreaming will be available on the ZEE5 website and app.

For the first time in his international career, he is entering the tournament not with questions looming over his legacy, but with a sense of completeness. Every major debate that followed – comparisons with Diego Maradona, discussions about criticism and pressure over international success – has subsided since that night in Lusail. Now all that is left is the possibility of adding to something that already feels historical.

Messi will undoubtedly be in the center of attention in Argentina’s World Cup opener, not only because he is captain and the defending world champions, but also because of his increased familiarity with American conditions after spending the last few seasons with Inter Miami in MLS. The Argentine arrived in North America with his captain with a hamstring problem, but the latest update from the camp suggests he has recovered well and is expected to start.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was bullish on Messi’s availability, highlighting that despite leaving Europe’s top football more than two seasons ago, his influence is unmatched.

Scaloni explained, “Not only the Argentine population but everyone – the whole planet – wants to see him play.” “Everyone wants to see him on the field, because he has such an impact not only on Argentina fans but on supporters around the world.”

Scaloni’s words underscore something bigger than Argentina’s ambitions at this tournament. Even now, deep into his career, Messi remains football’s biggest attraction – the only player capable of turning a group-stage match into a global event.

The legendary forward gave supporters a glimpse of his condition by entering as a second-half substitute in Argentina’s warm-up match against Iceland last week. It took him no time at all to make his mark. With his first meaningful involvement, Messi delivered a pass for Lautaro Martínez; When the striker failed to finish and was awarded a penalty instead, Messi stepped up and converted the penalty without any trouble.

There were no celebrations that had any additional meaning and no dramatic statements. Another contribution from a player who has made extraordinary moments routine in 200 international matches.

Argentina vs Algeria: Predicted line-up

Argentina’s probable XI:E Martínez (goalkeeper); Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Medina; De Paul, Fernandez, Mc Allister, Almada; messi, lautaro martinez

Algeria’s probable XI: Zidane (goalkeeper); Belghali, Mandi, Chergui, Ait-Nuri; Bentaleb, Boudaoui; Mahrez, Maza, Amoura; Gauri

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Vaibhav Suryavansh clashed with Sri Lanka A player

India spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutley has addressed the controversy surrounding teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi after heated scenes erupted following India’s dramatic defeat to Sri Lanka A in the Tri-Nation A series in Dambulla.The 15-year-old found himself in the headlines after clashing with Sri Lanka A players at the end of a tense encounter at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Monday. India A suffered a heart-breaking defeat in the Super Over, leaving their hopes of reaching the final in limbo, but the post-match controversy soon became the major talking point. Fresh details later emerged that Sri Lanka A player Vishen Halambage allegedly initiated the exchange after the hosts’ win.“The match is over…now you go home,” Halambaj reportedly told Suryavanshi. This comment prompted a reaction from the young Indian batsman, who responded verbally before pushing the Sri Lankan player. The situation escalated when both players came face to face, before teammates came forward to separate them.Speaking about the incident during a press conference, Bahutley described the episode as unfortunate but urged caution before passing judgment.“It was an unfortunate incident, but we don’t know how it was provoked. As far as I know.” grandeurHe’s a very laid-back boy.”The former India spinner said the matter would be addressed internally and stressed the importance of educating young cricketers about conduct on the field.“It was unfortunate, but I’m sure there are experienced coaches there who will explain things to them. I think Sri Lankan players should also be educated on how to behave and the same applies for us.”Bahule emphasized that Suryavanshi is still learning and taking on important responsibilities as a young international representative.“We will make sure he is given information as to why this happened. He is a young kid who has a lot of responsibilities and he is representing India. I think there will be some understanding, and I am sure he will not repeat it.”The Indian coach also expressed hope that such incidents can be prevented in future.“I think such incidents can be avoided.”Despite the confrontation, players from both teams completed the customary handshake after the match.

Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has strongly hinted that the 2026 FIFA World Cup could mark the end of his playing career, saying he sees no purpose in football once his journey with the national team ends.

The 40-year-old, who is part of Mexico’s squad for the World Cup on home soil, Making his sixth appearance at the Men’s World Cup, Equaling the records of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Ochoa had previously hinted that the tournament would be his final chapter with El Tri, but his latest comments suggest retirement from club football may not be far behind.

Speaking in an emotional interview as part of FIFA’s ‘Letters That Unite’ series, Ochoa reflected on the central role the national team has played throughout his life and career.

Ochoa said, “The Mexican national team has always been my direction in my career and life; it has given me direction.” “I can’t understand my career without the national team. I don’t know what my career would be like without the national team. And now that my time with the national team is coming to an end, I don’t see any more meaning in football. I don’t see any more meaning in continuing to play.”

The veteran goalkeeper became quite emotional during the interview and said that he will leave the national team with pride and peace of mind.

He said, “I’ve enjoyed every moment there. I put everything I had into it. I’m leaving peacefully, with my head held high and I’m proud to have had this experience.”

Currently playing for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa was an unused substitute in Mexico’s opening World Cup match against South Africa, with Ral Rangel getting the nod on goal. Although his role in the tournament may differ from previous editions, Ochoa’s legacy as one of Mexico’s greatest goalkeepers is already secure.

He starred in three World Cups as Mexico’s first-choice goalkeeper, putting in memorable performances that helped his country secure a goalless draw against defending champions Brazil in 2014 and a famous victory over holders Germany at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Beyond the World Cup, Ochoa was also part of the Mexico team that won the bronze medal at the delayed Tokyo Olympics in 2021, adding another significant achievement to an international career spanning more than two decades.

Before the tournament, Ochoa acknowledged the importance of the final World Cup campaign. In a message posted on

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Smriti Mandhana (Photo courtesy: BCCI)

New Delhi: Vice-captain of India Smriti Mandhana Has earned yet another prestigious honor after being named in Time magazine’s list of 100 Most Influential People in Sports 2026, emerging as the only Indian to feature in the star-studded global lineup.The annual list recognizes athletes, coaches, investors and advocates who are “shaping sports today”. Basketball legend LeBron James headlines this year’s edition, which also features football icon Lionel Messi and Cristiano RonaldoTennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz, golfer Rory McIlroy, skier Aileen Gu, NBA star Victor Vembanyama and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. captain of south africa Temba Bavuma And New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson are also among the notable names on the list.

Mandhana’s remarkable progress has received global recognition

Time highlighted Mandhana’s remarkable achievements, noting how “records keep falling” for the Mumbai-born opening batsman.The 29-year-old became the first Indian woman to score a double century in a domestic one-day game and the first batsman from the country to score centuries in all three international formats. She is also the joint holder of the record for most centuries in women’s international cricket, with 17 centuries.Mandhana was also the first woman to score more than 1,000 ODI runs in a calendar year.However, TIME noted that the left-hander is most proud of the team successes he has helped achieve.Mandhana captained Royal Challengers Bangalore to Women’s Premier League titles in 2024 and 2026, while also serving as vice-captain during India’s victorious ICC Women’s ODI World Cup campaign last year, and was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.Her extraordinary consistency saw her record the most international runs by a woman across all formats in 2024 and surpass her own record in 2025, an achievement that contributed to her being named BBC Indian Sportswoman of the Year.

The latest honor places Mandhana in elite company and underlines her growing stature as one of the most influential figures in world sport and the leading face of Indian women’s cricket.