Page 7 - Shashwat Nishant

Explained: Why English referees cannot officiate Argentina at the World Cup

FIFA does not appoint referees to matches involving their own countries to preserve neutrality. But in the case of English and Argentine officials, the restrictions go a step further.

Mikel Merino strikes late as Spain knock out Belgium to reach last four

In a contest that showcased Spain's patience, tactical discipline and ability to seize decisive moments, Luis de la Fuente's side overcame a resilient Belgian challenge to set up a SF clash vs FRA.

Spain vs Belgium HIGHLIGHTS World Cup, QF: Merino scores late again as ESP beat BEL 2-1

Spain will now take on France in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Dallas.

Mbappe stars as France outclass Morocco to reach World Cup semifinals

With the win, France reached the World Cup semifinals for a third consecutive edition and will now face Spain/Belgium for a place in the final.

France vs Morocco HIGHLIGHTS World Cup QF: Mbappe, Dembele help FRA beat MAR 2-0 to book semis berth

The clash was a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semifinal, where France defeated Morocco 2-0 before eventually losing an epic final to Argentina.

FIFA World Cup 2026 pre-QF today's matches, live timings (IST), streaming

Argentina will be eager to avoid another scare after being pushed to extra time in the previous round, whereas Egypt are eyeing one of the biggest upsets of the competition.

USA vs Belgium HIGHLIGHTS FIFA WC Last 16: Belgium humble USA 4-1 to go through to the quarter-final

Balogun failed to come on the scoresheet as the Red Devils dominated the proceedings on the day in Seattle.

Portugal vs Spain HIGHLIGHTS FIFA WC Last 16: Heartbreak for Ronaldo; ESP beat POR 1-0 to go through

Ronaldo fails to make it through to the quarters as his final World Cup campaign ends tonight courtesy of Merino's late stoppage time winner.

'I leave with a clear conscience': Ronaldo confirms last World Cup rumours

On the eve of Portugal's Round of 16 showdown against Spain, the 41-year-old finally said the words the footballing world had long expected to hear.

Mexico vs England HIGHLIGHTS, World Cup pre-QF: 10-men England beat hosts Mexico 3-2; through to QF

England vs Mexico highlights: A brace from Bellingham followed by a Harry kane penalty made sure the Three Lions book their QF berth on the night.

Did FIFA reverse Balogun's ban at Trump's request? What the rules say

USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, who had been serving an automatic one-match suspension after receiving a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, was unexpectedly cleared to play vs Belgium.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Brazil look to end Norway's dream run in New Jersey

With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, this promises to be one of the most intriguing tactical battles of the knockout stage.

FIFA WC: Mbappe delivers as France pass their toughest tactical test yet

A solitary Kylian Mbappe penalty proved enough to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Paraguay in Philadelphia, sending Les Bleus into the quarter-finals where Morocco awaits.

Morocco ends Canada's dream run to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals

Despite the defeat, Canada's run from World Cup newcomers to Round of 16 participants represents one of the tournament's biggest success stories and offers genuine optimism for them.

Paraguay vs France HIGHLIGHTS FIFA WC: FRA edge past PAR, MAR thump CAN 3-0 to book QF date

Mbappe's penalty helps France secure a quarter final berth in a disruptive game against Paraguay.

England's biggest WC test awaits: Mexico, Azteca and the battle vs altitude

England's last World Cup appearance here ended in quarter-final heartbreak against Argentina, with Maradona writing one of football's most iconic chapters.

World Cup rocked by Tunisia doping controversy as 8 players test positive

The North African side had already endured a miserable tournament, finishing bottom of Group F after heavy defeats to Sweden, Japan and the Netherlands.

Argentina vs Cabo Verde HIGHLIGHTS FIFA WC RO32: ARG through to last 16 with 3-2 win in extra time

Lionel Messi has once again been at the heart of Argentina's success, scoring his seventh goal on the night and providing one as well with the defending champions going through.

Balogun's red card sparks debate as World Cup refereeing faces criticism

While FIFA's Laws of the Game may technically justify the dismissal, comparisons with several similar incidents earlier in the tournament have left many questioning the rules.

Spain send title warning after dismantling Austria to book last 16 berth

After an inconsistent group-stage campaign that included a frustrating draw with Cabo Verde and a narrow victory over Uruguay, Luis de la Fuente's side rediscovered their trademark fluency on the day.