Category: Premier League

Scotland’s World Cup hopes now hang by a thread after Vinícius Júnior’s second-half double condemned Steve Clarke’s side to a 2-0 defeat against Brazil in Miami. The Real Madrid forward capitalised on a catastrophic defensive error from Scott McKenna inside seven minutes, rounding Angus Gunn to slot home, before adding a second with a header from Bruno Guimarães’s cross at the 38th minute. With Morocco already beating Haiti 2-0 earlier, Scotland must now wait to see if a one-goal defeat is enough to secure one of the eight best third-place spots in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Scotland’s mountain climb turns to rubble

The opening goal exposed glaring defensive frailties. McKenna’s hesitation allowed Vinícius Júnior to slip past him, leaving Gunn with no chance as the ball rolled into an empty net. Replays later showed Jack Hendry’s loose touch had gifted the Brazilian a clear sight of goal, though VAR intervened to disallow a potential second after minimal contact between Hendry and Vinícius Júnior was detected in the 23rd minute. That decision briefly offered Scotland a lifeline, but it proved fleeting. Vinícius Júnior restored Brazil’s two-goal cushion with a composed header at the back post, leaving the Tartan Army stunned.

Scotland’s attacking rhythm never materialised. Andy Robertson and Gunn were repeatedly exposed in transition, while attempts to build from deep were snuffed out by Brazil’s high press. A late save from Gunn—his first meaningful intervention of the game—offered a sliver of hope in the 45th+6 minute, but Rayan’s follow-up was palmed away. By full-time, the damage was done: a defeat that, while not mathematically eliminating them, has left their fate uncertain.

What comes next for the Tartan Army?

Scotland’s path to the knockout stages now depends on the other Group C results. A win over Brazil would have guaranteed progress, while a draw would likely have sufficed. A one-goal defeat may still be enough if results elsewhere go their way, but the margin for error has vanished. The new 48-team format’s third-place rule, already controversial, means Scotland could face an anxious wait to see if their goal difference or goals scored edge them through—particularly given the 2-0 scoreline against Brazil.

Clarke’s side showed resilience in their opening victory against Haiti, where Lyndon Dykes’ 49th-minute header secured a 1-0 win, but this performance lacked the intensity required against a team of Brazil’s calibre. The defeat leaves questions over defensive organisation and attacking creativity, particularly with key players like Ryan Porteous struggling to impose themselves in midfield. Whether Scotland advance or not, their tournament will be remembered for the unpredictability of the expanded format rather than their on-field impact.

Brazil’s ruthlessness seals their advantage

Brazil, meanwhile, demonstrated why they remain contenders. Vinícius Júnior’s clinical finish—his second of the game—underlined his threat, while the midfield pivot of Bruno Guimarães and the defensive solidity of Marquinhos provided the platform. Their ability to exploit defensive errors and convert chances efficiently underscored the gulf between the sides. Endrick, introduced in the 68th minute, nearly added a third when he forced Gunn into a sharp save in the 79th minute, while Rodrygo tested the Scotland goalkeeper again in stoppage time.

The result keeps Brazil in control of Group C, though they will still need to navigate the knockout stages with caution. For Scotland, the focus shifts to the standings and the slim hope that a narrow defeat might still be enough. The Tartan Army’s World Cup journey may not be over, but it has certainly lost its momentum.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made clear that Bukayo Saka’s return cannot single-handedly resolve the national team’s World Cup goalscoring crisis, even as he conceded the Arsenal winger is now indispensable in top condition.

Speaking after England’s frustrating 0-0 draw with Ghana in Houston, Tuchel ruled out the idea that Saka’s arrival would immediately solve the Three Lions’ lack of cutting edge in front of goal. Yet the German coach simultaneously stressed how desperately the squad needs the 24-year-old to regain full fitness, with the Premier League champion having featured as a second-half substitute in both of England’s opening matches. Saka’s cameo against Croatia included an assist for Marcus Rashford’s fourth goal, but he was unable to influence the stalemate with Ghana after replacing Jarrod Bowen with 30 minutes remaining.

Tuchel insisted that Saka’s rehabilitation from an Achilles injury is progressing well enough that he could start against Panama in New Jersey on Saturday, but cautioned against viewing the winger as a panacea. “He seems to be more and more ready and will hopefully push,” Tuchel said. “We will then see.”

The England boss added: “It’s not like Bukayo comes back and everything is solved and I don’t want to put this on his back. He’s a top player, that’s why he’s with us, and he will get his minutes. We need him desperately, like every other player, in top shape.”

Saka’s role remains secondary to collective responsibility

Tuchel’s refusal to elevate any individual above the collective reflects a broader tactical dilemma: England’s inability to convert chances has already forced him to rethink personnel choices ahead of the must-win finale. The Ghana stalemate marked the second consecutive match without a goal from open play, extending a barren run that has seen the Three Lions register just one shot on target in their last 120 minutes of World Cup football. With Saka’s fitness now the least of Tuchel’s concerns, the manager must decide whether to persist with his current attacking structure or introduce tactical alterations to unlock stubborn defences.

Rotation plans collide with knockout urgency

England currently top Group L on goal difference, level with Ghana on four points after a goalless stalemate that leaves both sides tied on head-to-head criteria. Should both teams win their final group games—England against Panama and Ghana against Croatia—their group-stage meeting would be settled by a penalty-shootout tiebreaker to determine who advances as group winners. This scenario would mark the first time FIFA’s World Cup regulations have used a shootout to separate teams level on all criteria after the group stage, underscoring the tournament’s increasing reliance on high-pressure moments to break deadlocks.

Tuchel admitted the uninspiring draw against Ghana complicates his desire to rest key players before the knockout phase. “Yes, but I was not even sure we would do the full rotation. Maybe we would have,” he said. “But I’m still not shy to do some…”

The coach’s hesitation underscores the tension between squad management and tournament progression. While rotation remains on the table, the absence of a reliable Plan B in attack means Tuchel cannot afford to gamble on fringe players when the stakes rise. The Panama fixture, played in the early hours of Sunday UK time, presents an immediate test of England’s depth, with the manager already indicating that personnel changes will be made regardless of the outcome against Ghana.

Defensive reshuffle gathers pace

Tuchel also used his post-match briefing to praise the emerging Guehi-Konsa centre-back partnership, hinting that John Stones may face competition for a starting berth. The Ghana game marked the second consecutive outing for Marc Guéhi and Ezri Konsa at the heart of the defence, a combination Tuchel described as effective enough to potentially displace established names. “The partnership has given us stability and confidence,” Tuchel told reporters. “We’re seeing different qualities from both players that complement each other well.”

With England’s defensive record already under scrutiny—conceding their first goal of the tournament in the 89th minute against Ghana—the manager’s comments suggest a tactical shift is underway. The Guehi-Konsa axis has now played 150 minutes together, keeping one clean sheet while conceding just once from open play. Should Stones be dropped, it would represent the most significant defensive reshuffle of England’s World Cup campaign to date, with implications for the entire backline’s cohesion in the knockout rounds.

As the squad prepares for a high-pressure encounter against Panama, Tuchel’s message is unambiguous: Saka’s fitness is vital, but England’s World Cup fate will hinge on whether the entire group can finally deliver in the final third. The manager’s next squad announcement, due 48 hours before kick-off, will reveal how far he is willing to push his rotation strategy—and whether the defensive experimentation extends beyond the back four.

Scotland face their sternest test yet in Miami when they meet Brazil in a Group C finale that could redefine their World Cup future. A draw would hand Steve Clarke’s side a historic first knockout-stage berth, while defeat risks prolonging an agonising wait to see if they qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. The Tartan Army’s campaign has already captured hearts in the USA, but the final act demands a result against football’s most iconic opponent.

A World Cup crossroads in Florida

Scotland arrived in Miami knowing a draw with Brazil would likely secure their passage to the last-32. That outcome remains within reach despite their defeat to Morocco, which followed an opening victory over Haiti. A narrow one-goal loss may also suffice, but anything more would leave Clarke’s team nervously monitoring other results to see if they sneak into the knockout stages as one of the eight best third-ranked sides. The new 48-team format has already stirred debate, and Scotland’s fate now hinges on their performance against a Brazil side managed by Carlo Ancelotti.

The stakes could scarcely be higher. Scotland have never beaten Brazil, and a first victory would mark the greatest result in their history. Even a draw would rewrite their tournament story, while defeat would plunge them into uncertainty. The Tartan Army have spent the past fortnight turning heads in Boston and beyond, but Miami demands a performance that matches their passion.

The human side of the quest

Captain Andy Robertson has become the public face of Scotland’s World Cup adventure, and he has spoken with pride about the Tartan Army’s impact. “Our fans are the best in the world,” he said. “Everywhere they go, people fall in love with them.” Robertson highlighted how the Boston crowd embraced the travelling support, creating an atmosphere that lingers even as they move on to the next destination.

While the players prepare for the biggest game of their careers, Robertson’s words underscore what’s at stake beyond the pitch. A victory over Brazil would give the Tartan Army a reason to celebrate long into the night, while anything less would leave them waiting for a verdict that may not arrive until the small hours. The captain’s optimism is tempered by realism: “We’re a long way off that sitting here just now.”

Tactics and mindset under the Florida sun

Clarke has built a reputation for tactical flexibility, though he was quick to dismiss suggestions of a preordained system against Brazil. “I think we’ve shown in my time in charge that we can be very flexible,” he said, adding that the approach would depend on the circumstances. Ancelotti’s Brazil will likely bring technical quality and attacking intent, meaning Scotland must balance caution with the confidence that carried them past Haiti.

The challenge is clear: disrupt Brazil’s rhythm while avoiding the kind of defensive lapses that cost them against Morocco. Clarke’s side have shown resilience, but the final test requires composure under pressure. Whether they opt for a conservative shape or push higher up the pitch, every decision will carry the weight of a nation’s hopes.

One thing is certain: the Tartan Army will demand nothing less than total commitment. Their journey has already captivated audiences, but Miami offers a stage to secure a place in history—or face an anxious vigil for a result that may not come quickly.

As the clock ticks down, Scotland stand at a World Cup junction. A draw would be enough, but the Tartan Army dream of more. Against Brazil, even the improbable now feels within reach.

Derek McInnes arrived at Ibrox with a declaration: “I belong here.” The new Rangers manager, unveiled on Wednesday 24 June 2026, made clear his ambition to end the club’s 15-year title drought and restore the club to its accustomed place at the top of Scottish football. Speaking after his appointment, McInnes framed the move not as a gamble but as a homecoming—one he believes was always meant to happen.

From Tynecastle to Ibrox: a manager’s journey

McInnes’ path to Rangers is the latest twist in a season of managerial upheaval. He left Hearts in May after nearly securing the Premiership title, falling short by minutes in a dramatic finale. Yet within weeks, the opportunity at Rangers materialised, prompting his swift move to Ibrox. The 54-year-old, who played for Rangers between 1995 and 2000, insisted the timing felt right. “Becoming Rangers manager is something I always wanted to do,” he said. “The call was a surprise when it came about because obviously the manager was in place here. I was on my holiday and things kind of kicked off and it was a busy five or six days in between.”

For McInnes, the appointment is personal. He grew up supporting Rangers and now returns as manager, inheriting a club that has won just one league title since 2011. His challenge is clear: to rebuild a team capable of dominating domestically and competing in Europe. “I feel as if I belong here and I’m ready to get going with it,” he said. “We want to try and deliver a team that meets the demand here.”

Demands and deadlines: McInnes sets the tone

McInnes wasted no time in outlining his priorities. He spoke of meeting “the demand” at Rangers—a reference to the club’s trophy-starved fanbase and the expectation to win immediately. “I’ve got an idea of what my Rangers team needs to look like and hopefully it’s something similar to what the Rangers fans want as well,” he said. The message was unambiguous: patience will not be a virtue. “I feel as though the Rangers fans—they’ve suffered for a long time—and it’s up to us to try now and play a key role in driving the standards.”

His first competitive test comes on 31 July, when Rangers face Dundee United in a Sky Sports live broadcast. The fixture list sets a high bar from the outset, with McInnes needing to hit the ground running. The club’s early-season ban—reported separately—adds another layer of urgency, meaning every point will matter from the start.

Tactics and transition: what to expect

While McInnes has not yet outlined his tactical blueprint, his comments suggest a pragmatic approach aimed at quick results. He will likely prioritise defensive organisation and direct, efficient football—qualities he cultivated during his time at Aberdeen and Hearts. His ability to grind out results may suit Rangers’ current squad better than a high-pressing system. Expect McInnes to reshape the midfield and strike force in the coming weeks, with an eye on the August transfer window.

His appointment also signals a shift in managerial profile at Ibrox. Unlike his predecessor, McInnes brings extensive domestic experience and a deep understanding of Scottish football’s physical demands. That familiarity could prove decisive in tight domestic battles, where tactical nuance often matters less than resilience. His track record of improving teams—from St Johnstone to Aberdeen and Hearts—demonstrates an ability to adapt systems to available personnel, a trait that will be tested immediately.

Yet the real test lies in results. Rangers’ recent struggles have extended beyond the league, with early European exits and inconsistent domestic form eroding fan trust. McInnes’ first task is to restore belief—not through words, but through performances. His opening fixture against Dundee United, live on Sky Sports, will be the first real indicator of whether his vision aligns with reality.

With his opening fixture just over a month away, the clock is ticking. McInnes has staked his claim to belong. Now, he must prove it.

Neymar’s availability for Brazil’s World Cup clash with Scotland at Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday could shift the balance in Group C, where both sides sit level on three points after opening wins. The Seleção’s talisman is back in training after missing the opening victory over Haiti, and his presence alone changes the tactical landscape for Fernando Diniz’s side. Scotland, meanwhile, will need to show the same resilience they displayed against Morocco if they are to avoid becoming the first group-stage victims of Brazil’s attacking firepower.

Why Neymar’s return matters now

Brazil’s 4-0 win over Haiti in their opener was built on collective intensity rather than individual brilliance, but the difference between that performance and a more controlled approach against Scotland may come down to Neymar’s fitness. The forward missed the first match after picking up a knock in training, and his recovery timeline has been closely monitored. With the World Cup expanded to 48 teams and group dynamics tighter than ever, every available player boosts a side’s chances of progressing. Scotland, who held Morocco to a 1-1 draw in their first match, will face a Brazil side that has already shown they can dominate possession and create chances in volume.

Diniz has used the extra recovery day to integrate Neymar into the squad’s rhythm, suggesting the Brazilian will start against the Scots. His presence would allow Brazil to deploy a more fluid front three, with Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo providing the width while Neymar operates between the lines. That trio’s collective movement was absent against Haiti, where goals from Endrick, Raphinha, and Bruno Fernandes arrived through rapid transitions rather than sustained build-up play. Against Scotland, a more patient approach may be required—especially if the Scots set up compactly, as they did against Morocco.

The tactical puzzle for both sides

Scotland’s manager will be acutely aware that Brazil’s midfield—featuring Bruno Fernandes, Lucas Paquetá, and João Gomes—can overrun most opponents in possession. The Seleção averaged 62% possession in their opener, and Scotland’s midfield will need to press aggressively to force turnovers. However, their own midfield struggled to impose themselves against Morocco, and a repeat performance could leave their defence exposed. If Brazil’s full-backs, Danilo and Alex Telles, push high up the pitch, Scotland’s wingers will need to track back quickly to avoid being outnumbered.

For Brazil, the challenge is to avoid complacency. Their opening win was clinical, but Scotland’s defensive organisation in the second half against Morocco showed they can frustrate more technical sides. The Scots’ set-piece threat—evident in their equaliser against Morocco—will also demand Brazil’s full-backs stay alert at set pieces. If Neymar starts, his ability to draw fouls and create half-chances could be the difference in a game where neither side can afford a loss.

What comes next for both teams

Brazil’s path to the knockout stages becomes clearer with Neymar fit. A win would likely secure top spot in the group, while Scotland’s fate hinges on results elsewhere in the group. A draw would keep their hopes alive, but a defeat could leave them needing a miracle against Morocco in their final match. The Scots’ direct style—long balls to Scott McTominay and Lyndon Dykes—has worked in patches, but Brazil’s defensive structure, anchored by Marquinhos, will look to nullify that threat.

The contrast in approaches makes this an intriguing tactical battle. Brazil’s technical superiority is undeniable, but Scotland’s resilience under pressure has already been proven. If Neymar’s inclusion allows Brazil to play with more control, the Scots may need a moment of individual brilliance to break through. For Diniz, the priority is to avoid overcommitting forward and leaving spaces for counter-attacks—something Scotland exploited against Morocco.

As the clock ticks down to kick-off, the question isn’t just whether Neymar will start, but how Scotland’s game plan adapts to the threat he poses. One thing is certain: a draw would leave both sides in a precarious position, while a win for either could set up a winner-takes-all finale in the group.

England’s World Cup campaign risks stalling before it has gathered momentum after a goalless draw with Ghana exposed a critical weakness in Thomas Tuchel’s bench strategy. The manager’s preference for like-for-like replacements rather than wildcard options left his side short of the creativity needed to break down stubborn opponents, a flaw that may yet prove decisive in Qatar.

The Ghana stalemate reveals England’s substitution dilemma

Tuchel’s approach to squad rotation has relied on swapping players who share similar profiles—speed for speed, flair for flair—but the Ghana game underlined the limitations of this method. Despite introducing fresh legs, the changes failed to shift the game’s rhythm. When Nico O’Reilly’s header cannoned back off the crossbar in the 67th minute, the rebound fell to Harry Kane, who skied his shot over the crossbar. “Ninety-nine times out of 100,” Tuchel argued in his post-match press conference, Kane would have scored. The miss left England’s attack stranded, and the manager’s faith in his system momentarily shaken.

The lone goal from a substitute this tournament—Marcus Rashford’s 82nd-minute strike against Croatia—offers little comfort when Plan A collapses. Tuchel’s reluctance to include players with distinctly different skillsets, such as Phil Foden or Cole Palmer, now looks riskier. Morgan Gibbs-White, with 15 Premier League goals this season, might also question why his form didn’t earn a spot in the squad, particularly given his ability to operate as a No 10 or wide playmaker.

Why Tuchel’s bench choices matter now

England’s attacking options off the bench are built for continuity rather than transformation. Anthony Gordon and Rashford, both left-footed wingers with direct dribbling profiles, overlap in their attributes, while Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke share a club affiliation and positional versatility. Even Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers, Midlanders and friends who have trained together at club level, fit a template rather than offering a tactical reset. Tuchel’s argument that Argentina and France rely on their superstars ignores the reality that those teams have alternatives when Plan A falters—Lionel Messi’s absence in 2022 was mitigated by Julián Álvarez’s pressing, while Kylian Mbappé’s injury in 2018 saw France turn to Ousmane Dembélé’s pace.

The Ghana game was not just dull; it was structurally inert. Ghana’s mid-block, anchored by Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus, suffocated England’s midfield, and Tuchel’s substitutions—designed to inject energy—could not unlock the deadlock. The absence of a player like Foden, capable of unpredictable dribbling or final-third creativity, left the side without a clear route to goal when Kane’s presence alone wasn’t enough. Even the introduction of Ollie Watkins in the 78th minute failed to provide the necessary link-up play, with the Aston Villa striker isolated against Ghana’s disciplined backline.

The tactical blind spot in England’s World Cup blueprint

Tuchel’s philosophy prioritises familiarity over innovation, a strategy that works when the first XI delivers. But when England’s starters fail to impose themselves—whether through poor form, tactical mismatches, or opponent resilience—the bench must provide a different dimension. Against Ghana, it did not. The manager’s rhetorical question—”Does Argentina rely too heavily on Messi and France on Mbappé?”—highlights his faith in elite individuals to solve games. Yet England’s squad lacks a player who can operate outside this framework. Watkins and Ivan Toney, while serviceable, are not Kane clones, nor are they likely to be needed in the same way. The question now is whether Tuchel will reconsider his approach before the next match, or double down on a system that may not have enough firepower to progress.

England’s World Cup fate may hinge on a single adjustment: the inclusion of a wildcard option capable of changing the game’s complexion. Without it, Tuchel’s plan risks being exposed as too rigid for a tournament where adaptability is the difference between progress and elimination. The Ghana game was a microcosm of the problem—England had the personnel to dominate, but not the tools to adapt when domination failed.

England’s 0-0 draw with Ghana in their second World Cup group game was always going to feel different after the opening 4-2 victory over Croatia. But the reality check was sharper than expected. The Three Lions’ attacking rhythm stalled against a disciplined Ghana side, exposing familiar frustrations that now demand Thomas Tuchel’s attention.

A reality check, not a crisis

Paul Merson labelled the result a return to reality for England, and he’s right. Four consecutive World Cup tournaments have seen England draw their second group game, and this one followed the same pattern. Tuchel’s side started brightly but couldn’t sustain the pressure, with Ghana’s defence absorbing everything thrown at them. The Sky Sports pundit acknowledged the difficulty of breaking down deep blocks but stressed that progress is still possible.

“You can’t score four in every game, but you’d expect to break them down in the end,” Merson noted. “That’s something for Tuchel to look at, but you’re not winning the World Cup in the second game of the tournament.” The point is fair: early momentum matters, but the tournament is long. England remain on course for the knockout stages, and a draw keeps their options open.

Subbuteo football and missed chances

The game lacked fluidity, with Ghana’s compact shape stifling England’s creativity. Merson described it as “Subbuteo football,” a telling comparison for a match where movement and quick passing were in short supply. The lack of dynamism was glaring, particularly in midfield, where Ghana’s structure frustrated England’s attempts to build rhythm.

Jude Bellingham’s positioning was singled out as an area for improvement. The Real Madrid midfielder often drifted into pockets of space but rarely received the ball when he was free. Merson highlighted Messi’s ability to receive and instantly eliminate defenders with a single touch, contrasting it with England’s hesitant play. “They have to trust Bellingham more and get him the ball,” he argued. “He’s a top player and he’s getting into really good positions.”

Trust the process, but fix the flaws

England’s tournament trajectory remains intact, but the Ghana draw exposed tactical and psychological hurdles. Tuchel’s side will need to adapt quickly if they’re to progress beyond the group stage. The manager’s man-management and in-game adjustments will be scrutinised, particularly in how he utilises his most influential players.

Merson’s message was clear: trust the manager, but demand better. “It’s better to have those reality checks earlier in the tournament than later on,” he said. England can’t afford to rely solely on individual brilliance; they need collective solutions. The next match will be decisive, and Tuchel’s ability to refine England’s approach could define their World Cup fate.

For now, the focus shifts to regrouping. England’s opening win suggested they could dominate opponents, but Ghana’s resilience proved otherwise. The lesson is simple: progress isn’t linear, and Tuchel’s work is far from done. The Three Lions must tighten their execution or risk paying a higher price later.

Lionel Messi turns 39 on Wednesday, but the Argentina captain is defying the calendar in emphatic fashion. Two World Cup group games, five goals, and a record-breaking haul later, the holders’ talisman is not just playing—he is dominating. The numbers alone justify the fuss: a hat-trick against Algeria followed by a brace against Austria have propelled him past Gerd Müller, Cristiano Ronaldo and Miroslav Klose to become the outright all-time top scorer in World Cup history. At an age when most players are contemplating testimonials, Messi is rewriting the tournament’s record books and dragging Argentina toward a second consecutive title.

From doubt to dominance in six weeks

Messi’s inclusion was not guaranteed. As recently as March, coach Lionel Scaloni admitted the decision hinged on the player’s physical and mental readiness. “It’s up to him, how he feels in his mind and his physical condition,” Scaloni said. The scepticism evaporated with his performance against Algeria, when Messi erased doubts with a first-half masterclass. Three goals, one record, and a statement to the world: at 39, he remains the tournament’s most dangerous striker.

Against Austria, he erased any remaining debate. Two more goals—one either side of half-time—extended his personal tally to five in two games and Argentina’s momentum. The holders now sit atop their group with a game in hand, their path to the knockout stages clearer than it was in Qatar. Messi’s five goals already surpass his entire output from the 2022 edition, where he inspired Argentina to glory. This time, he is doing it in fewer games than in 2022 and with a sharper intensity that has redefined what it means to be a World Cup striker at 39.

The complete forward at 39

Goals are only part of the story. Messi is not merely scoring; he is dictating. According to Sky Sports’ World Cup power rankings, which aggregate a broad set of metrics, he ranks as the tournament’s best-performing player. Among midfielders and forwards, he sits in the 96th percentile or higher for non-penalty expected goals (98th), shots (97th) and passes into the final third (96th). Progressive carries? 92nd percentile. Open-play expected assists? 86th. Even in defensive duels—where forwards rarely excel—he ranks in the 72nd percentile for possessions won, one of which directly led to a teammate’s chance against Algeria in the 21st minute.

This is Messi the orchestrator, the metronome, the player who simultaneously terrorises defenders and glides past them. His range of contributions defies the stereotype of the ageing forward reduced to poacher’s instincts. Instead, he is the fulcrum of a team that looks more balanced, more fluid, and more ruthless than in Qatar. The World Cup is not a sprint, but at this rate, Messi is treating it like one—with the stamina to cover 94 minutes and the vision to unlock defences in the 90th.

What comes next: a second star within reach

The knockout stages loom, and Messi’s form suggests Argentina are built for the rigours of a title defence. His nearest rivals for the Golden Boot—Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland—trail by three goals, while Cristiano Ronaldo sits two behind on two. The margin is comfortable, but in a tournament where momentum shifts in an instant, no lead is safe. Messi’s cushion at the top of the scoring charts, however, is not just psychological. It is statistical proof that he remains the tournament’s most consistent threat.

The road ahead is unforgiving. Every potential knockout-stage fixture presents a different puzzle: a dogfight with a defensive bully like Uruguay, a tactical chess match against a low block like Mexico, or a high-octane clash with a counter-attacking side like Germany. Yet Messi has already shown he thrives under pressure. In Qatar, he delivered when it mattered most—his assist for Ángel Di María in the final and the winning penalty against the Netherlands. Now, at 39, he is doing it with a swagger that suggests age is merely a number—and one he intends to keep ignoring.

As Messi blows out the candles on his 39th birthday, the question is no longer whether he belongs among the greats. It is whether he can finish the job. Argentina’s campaign is barely halfway complete, but their captain is already writing another chapter in a story that refuses to end. The World Cup, it seems, still belongs to Lionel Messi.

With the World Cup 2026 group stage reaching its climax, the co-hosts USA face Turkey in a dead-rubber clash at SoFi Stadium on Thursday night. Already confirmed as Group D winners, Pochettino’s side will look to finish their campaign with a third consecutive victory, while Turkey—already eliminated—seek pride in their final match of the tournament.

When and where to watch Turkey v USA

The match kicks off at 5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET on Thursday 25 June at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. For UK viewers, coverage begins at 3am BST on Friday 26 June on ITV1 and ITVX, with STV and STV Player carrying the game in Scotland. In the US, Fox and Telemundo will provide live coverage.

What’s at stake in Group D

USA have already secured top spot in Group D after wins over Paraguay (4-1) and Australia (2-0), while Turkey lost their opener 2-0 to Australia before falling 1-0 to a 10-man Paraguay. The Americans’ head-to-head record over the eliminated teams sealed their advancement, leaving little suspense over the standings but plenty of questions about squad rotation and fitness.

Team news and tactical considerations

Christian Pulisic remains a doubt for the USA after being withdrawn at half-time in their opening win and missing the second match entirely due to a hamstring injury. Mauricio Pochettino admitted it was “impossible” for him to play against Australia and stressed the need for the full squad to stay fresh. Turkey, meanwhile, appear physically prepared, with no major fitness concerns reported.

Pochettino’s predicted line-up features Sean Freese in goal, flanked by Sergiño Dest, Walker Zimmerman, Tim Ream, and Antonee Robinson in defence. Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams anchor midfield, supported by Caden Clark and Folarin Balogun up front. Turkey’s XI is expected to include Mert Cakir; Zeki Celik, Merih Demiral, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, and Ferdi Kadioglu in defence, with Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Orkun Kökçü in midfield.

What this means for the tournament

While the result holds no bearing on the group standings, it offers the USA a chance to blood young players and test alternatives to their first-choice XI. For Turkey, it’s a final opportunity to salvage momentum ahead of the knockout rounds. Pochettino’s focus will be on squad management, but any unexpected contributions from fringe players could still shape perceptions ahead of the next stage.

With the group phase drawing to a close, Thursday’s match serves as a low-stakes but high-interest curtain-raiser before the knockout battles intensify. For neutrals, it’s a final glimpse of two teams whose paths diverge sharply after this fixture.