
Messi’s Record Night Lights Up Arlington’s AT&T Stadium
Lionel Messi's historic double against Austria headlines a day of unforgettable performances, from Jude Bellingham's decisive strike to Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup chapter.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Mikel Merino across Soccer, Football.

Lionel Messi's historic double against Austria headlines a day of unforgettable performances, from Jude Bellingham's decisive strike to Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup chapter.

Eight teams remain in the tournament, with top-ranked sides and an underdog Norway poised for a historic run.

Eight teams remain in the quarterfinal round, with France as the odds‑on favorite, Spain and Argentina close behind, while Norway’s unexpected advance brings a new storyline. Key players such as Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland are shaping the tournament’s narrative.

Spain's 35‑match unbeaten run under Luis de la Fuente clashes with Belgium's gritty campaign, which includes a 4‑1 win over the United States and the loss of Amadou Onana to injury.

Spain enters the quarter-final with a 35-match unbeaten streak, while Belgium hopes to overcome the loss of Amadou Onana and a political backdrop to challenge the Spanish juggernaut.

With France, Spain, Argentina and England among the favorites, the upcoming quarterfinals promise high stakes, star power and historic narratives as the tournament heads toward a July final.

Eight nations remain in the World Cup quarterfinals, with France favored, Norway's surprise run, and key matches scheduled for July 14‑19, all broadcast in the U.S. on Fox, Peacock and Telemundo.

The quarterfinal round of the World Cup features top-ranked teams battling for semifinal spots, with Norway’s surprise run led by Erling Haaland adding intrigue.

With eight teams left, the quarterfinal round promises high‑stakes contests, from France's heavy favoritism to Norway's Cinderella story, all set to culminate in a U.S. finale.

The World Cup quarterfinals will unfold across seven U.S. cities, featuring top-ranked teams and emerging dark horses. Betting markets favor France, Spain, Argentina and England, while Norway’s run led by Erling Haaland adds intrigue. Key players are delivering standout performances ahead of semifinals and a final that will be broadcast on Fox, Peacock and Telemundo.

Eight nations remain in the World Cup quarterfinals, with France as the betting favorite and Lionel Messi topping the goal chart. Key matchups and a packed schedule set the stage for a dramatic finale.

The Athletic’s daily World Cup predictions blend expert analysis, subscriber picks and algorithmic forecasts, featuring a colorful mix of contributors ahead of the Argentina‑Egypt and Switzerland‑Colombia showdowns

The United States fell to Belgium in the last 16, while Lionel Messi eyes a second World Cup triumph amid a fierce Golden Boot battle.

Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup match concluded with a 1-0 loss to Spain, as Mikel Merino's late goal decided the contest. Ronaldo expressed sadness but refrained from hasty decisions about his international future, praising his contributions and thanking manager Roberto Martinez.

The United States will meet Belgium at Lumen Field, seeking a quarter-final berth for the first time since 2002, while Belgium aims to continue its comeback narrative after a dramatic win over Senegal.

A dramatic late goal by substitute Mikel Merino ended Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey and propelled Spain into the last eight.

A dramatic late goal by Mikel Merino sealed a 1‑0 victory for Spain over Portugal, marking the final World Cup appearance of Cristiano Ronaldo and setting up a clash with either the United States or Belgium.

The United States Men's National Team can secure a quarterfinal berth with a win over Belgium, setting up a marquee encounter against Spain at SoFi Stadium on July 10.
Spain secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals with a decisive win over Portugal, setting up a high‑stakes clash against the United States or Belgium on July 10 at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium.

Spain’s perfect defensive record and upcoming match against Austria highlight a pivotal moment in the 2026 World Cup.

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente is set to reshuffle the attack, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams in contention, as the team faces Saudi Arabia at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta on 21 June 2026.

Cape Verde's disciplined low block frustrated Spain's 27 attempts, with veteran goalkeeper Vozinha earning man‑of‑the‑match honors in a debut to remember.

Cape Verde's historic World Cup appearance ended in a 0-0 draw against Spain in Atlanta, showcasing a disciplined low block and a standout performance by goalkeeper Vozinha that frustrated a dominant Spanish side.

Spain dominated possession but could not find a way past a disciplined Cape Verde defense, as the newcomers secured a point that underscored their tactical discipline.