Cafu, Brazilian football legend and the most-capped Brazil player, has long-defined the defensive winger role for club and country.
Argentina has defeated England 2-1, with Messi providing two key assists as Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez score. Argentina eye back-to-back World Cup titles, a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962. The team now advances to face Spain in the final.
Spain has reached the World Cup final after a 2-1 win over France, setting up a final against Argentina. Argentina has secured a dramatic comeback win over England, keeping alive their title defence. The Guardian notes Spain’s control and Porro’s impact, while SBS and The Independent highlight Messi’s form and the tension around the knockout stage.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time to claim a second World Cup title. Ferran Torres scores the decisive goal in the 106th minute, capping a dominant display and a robust defensive performance from Luis de la Fuente’s side.
European and international football bodies are pressuring FIFA president Gianni Infantino to step down or reform leadership amid the now-abandoned plan to sell World Cup rights. European confederations and leagues call for greater stakeholder consultation as calls for change grow ahead of next year’s FIFA Congress.
Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after the World Cup final loss to Spain. The 39-year-old, who captained Argentina to 2022 World Cup glory, has said the time has come to step away from international football while continuing with Inter Miami.
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team in a handwritten Instagram statement published on 31 August 2026. The 39-year-old has said he has "nothing left to give" after leading Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and to the 2026 final. Tributes and plans for a farewell match are under way; Argentina will meet friendly opponents in September.