World Cup 2026: Messi Escapes Red Card as Controversial Challenge Sparks Double-Standards Debate

Lionel Messi may have stolen the headlines with a stunning hat-trick against Algeria, but the Argentina captain’s performance has also sparked controversy after many fans claimed he was fortunate to avoid a red card.

Football

Iran Star Sparks Controversy With ‘Gun Gesture’ Celebration at World Cup 2026

Iran midfielder Mohammad Mohebi has found himself at the centre of controversy after his goal celebration during Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against New Zealand sparked widespread debate.

Football

World Cup Watch Party Ends in Disappointment as No Guests Show Up

A Chinese café owner who invited more than 4,000 people to watch the FIFA World Cup together was left heartbroken after not a single guest turned up for the event.

Football

Messi hat-trick equals goalscoring record as Argentina beat Algeria

Lionel Messi earned a spot in the World Cup history books with a hat-trick that saw Argentina begin the defence of their title with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday.

Football

Arnold sees positives in Iraq's opening World Cup loss to Norway

Iraq coach Graham Arnold urged his players not to lose heart after their 4-1 defeat by Norway in their World Cup opener on Tuesday and reminded them they have two more chances to get a victory that could put them through to the knockout rounds.

Football

Efficiency, aggression in focus for Senegal after France defeat, says Thiaw

Senegal will hope to become less passive in defence and improve efficiency in their attack, coach Pape Thiaw said, after a 3-1 defeat by France in their World Cup Group I opener on Tuesday.