Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has dismissed speculation about his participation in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, stating that his focus remains firmly on the present and on helping his team during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking to reporters in Texas during the tournament, Messi said he intends to continue playing football for as long as he feels physically fit and capable of contributing to his teammates' success on the field.
Croatia kept their World Cup hopes alive and kicking with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Panama at BMO Field. The narrow win positions the 2018 finalists beautifully for a spot in the knockout round, while officially ending Panama’s journey in the 2026 tournament.