Shafaq News- Manchester

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca said he has no personal concern over the club’s unresolved Premier League financial case, more than three years after 115 alleged rule breaches were announced.

“The only thing I can say is three years ago, the Treble season, I was here and it was the same words about this,” Maresca told reporters. “In three years, it’s still the same. Nothing has happened.”

Maresca worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant when City won the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League in 2022-23, the same season the league referred the club to an independent commission. He returned as head coach this summer.

The Premier League charged City in February 2023 over alleged breaches between 2009-10 and 2017-18, including inaccurate financial reporting, undisclosed payments, violations of domestic and UEFA financial rules, and failures to cooperate with investigators. City deny wrongdoing and say they possess evidence supporting their position.

A private hearing ran from September to December 2024, but no verdict has been published. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has stated that the independent panel controls the timetable.

City’s Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has declined to discuss the evidence before the ruling, while football finance expert Stefan Borson told talkSPORT that the club’s continued spending and infrastructure investment suggested its leadership expected a favorable outcome. He stressed that this was an inference, not knowledge of the commission’s decision.

Possible sanctions depend on which charges, if any, are upheld. Sky Sports chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol has explained that the commission could impose fines, points deductions, or, in an extreme case, expulsion from the Premier League.

Shafaq News- Baghdad

Iraq will compete in India’s first World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting on August 22, the Iraqi Athletics Federation announced on Saturday.

The one-day event will take place at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar after India upgraded the competition from Bronze level in 2025. World Athletics lists it among the 2026 Continental Tour Silver meetings.

Federation executive director Zaidoun Jawad told Shafaq News that Iraq accepted an official invitation from the Athletics Federation of India, which will host the participating delegations. The Iraqi federation is awaiting the technical regulations before selecting its squad and confirming the events its athletes will contest, and the coaching staff will then prepare the chosen men and women for the meeting.

India’s athletics federation described the competition as one of the main events on its 2026 calendar.

Shafaq News- Baghdad

The Iraq Stars League ranked 81st worldwide and fifth among Arabcompetitions in the latest league-strength table based on Opta Power Rankings.

The Saudi Pro League led the Arab standings, followed by theEgyptian Premier League, UAE Pro League, and Qatar Stars League. England’sPremier League remained first globally, ahead of Spain’s La Liga.

Opta compares competitions through the ratings of their clubs,using a model covering thousands of teams worldwide. The table measuresestimated playing strength rather than revenue, attendance, or popularity.

Iraq’s ranking can change as domestic and international clubresults update the underlying team ratings.

Shafaq News

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has reportedly told the club he wants to join Real Madrid this summer, although no formal bid or negotiations have been confirmed.

Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs reported that the Spain international favors the move for sporting and family reasons, while City want to keep him and expect Madrid to make an offer.

Spanish newspaper AS, however, reported that City denied holding talks with Real Madrid. Rodri remains under contract until June 2027, giving the English club a choice between renewing him, selling this summer, or risking his departure without a transfer fee next year.

The 30-year-old previously left the door open to Madrid and delayed discussions over his future until after the World Cup. Interest intensified after he led Spain to the 2026 title and won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, with Real Madrid seeing the Madrid-born midfielder as an ideal anchor for their midfield, seven years after he left Atletico Madrid for Manchester City, according to local outlets.

Read more: Five football transfers that could shape summer 2026

Shafaq News- London

Cameron John has completed a permanent move toHartlepool United, signing a one-year contract with the club holding the optionof a second year, the National League side confirmed on Friday.

The 26-year-old defender arrives as a freeagent after leaving York City at the expiry of his contract earlier thissummer. He spent last season on a season-long loan at Hartlepool from York,having joined the Minstermen in 2024, and established himself as a regular andone of the club's standout performers.

John, a versatile left-sided player who canoperate at left-back or centre-half, scored twice in 40 appearances for Poolsduring the loan spell. The permanent switch follows repeated interest fromHartlepool in converting the deal, with John having earlier stated a desire toremain.

"It's really good to be back," Johnsaid. "It has been in the works for a while, and I'm just glad to finallyget it done. I can't wait to be back playing in front of the fans."

The defender, who was open about how much heenjoyed his loan season, said the move marked a shift after a career builtlargely on temporary spells, and that he intended to use it to push on.

Romford-born, John came through the SouthendUnited academy before moving to Wolves in 2015, with subsequent spells at DoncasterRovers, Rochdale and York. He said he wanted to draw on that Football Leagueand National League experience to help a young Hartlepool squad.

Shafaq News

Europe’s transfer market remains open until September 1, leaving several of the summer’s largest potential deals unresolved after a window already marked by record spending.

From Julian Alvarez’s desired Atletico Madrid exit to Rodri’s possible return to Spain, these are five transfer stories likely to dominate the remaining weeks.

Julian Alvarez: Atletico Madrid to Barcelona?

Alvarez publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico Madrid to “fulfil his dream,” prompting interest from Barcelona, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid.

Barcelona remain his preferred destination, according to Sky Sports, but Atletico have resisted approaches and reportedly value the Argentina striker at about $176 million. Arsenal and PSG remain alternatives should Barcelona fail to finance the move.

The 26-year-old remains under contract until 2030, leaving Atletico in control despite his desire for a transfer.

Rodri: Manchester City to Real Madrid?

Real Madrid are weighing a move for Manchester City midfielder Rodri after he led Spain to the World Cup title and won the tournament’s Golden Ball.

Rodri previously left the door open to joining Madrid and has entered the final year of his City contract. Reports in Spain suggest a fee of about $70 million could bring City to the negotiating table, although the Premier League club also want to extend his deal.

His future could become one of the market’s decisive stories, particularly if Madrid formally open negotiations.

Bruno Guimaraes: Newcastle to Arsenal?

Arsenal have made Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes a priority midfield target and are expected to improve an opening offer reportedly worth about $95 million. Newcastle value the Brazil international closer to $135 million and want to retain him.

The 28-year-old has also attracted interest from Manchester United and Real Madrid, with Reuters previously reporting advanced United talks over a possible move.

Newcastle’s valuation remains the principal obstacle, as Newcastle value the Brazil international closer to $95 million, but Arsenal’s interest continues.

Bradley Barcola: PSG to Liverpool or Arsenal?

Liverpool and Arsenal are monitoring Bradley Barcola as they seek another elite wide forward, although Paris Saint-Germain have publicly maintained that the France international is not for sale.

Subsequent reports suggested PSG could consider offers near $81 million, with Liverpool viewing Barcola as a possible long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.

The conflicting reports make this the least advanced deal on the list, but Barcola’s status and Premier League interest ensure his future will remain closely watched.

Nico Williams: Athletic Club to Arsenal?

Arsenal have renewed interest in Spain winger Nico Williams after his influential role in the country’s World Cup triumph. The 24-year-old is under contract with Athletic Club until 2035, but his agreement contains a release clause reportedly worth about $106 million.

Barcelona have pursued Williams in previous windows, while Liverpool have also been linked, but Arsenal have reportedly reopened discussions over a possible move.

His long contract leaves Athletic under no pressure to negotiate below the clause.

Shafaq News- Barcelona (Updated at 20:40)

FC Barcelona signed Germany forward Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund on Thursday for a reported $25.1 million plus add-ons, securing the 24-year-old through June 2031.

Neither club disclosed the financial terms, but Spanish media reported that the bonuses could raise the deal by about $8 million, while Dortmund retained 20% of any profit from a future sale.

Adeyemi requested the transfer after rejecting a contract extension, with his Dortmund deal due to expire in 2027, the Bundesliga club confirmed.

The Munich-born forward scored 36 goals in 146 appearances during four seasons with Dortmund after joining from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022. He can operate on either wing or through the center and has previously recorded a Bundesliga speed of 36.65 kilometers per hour.

The move reunites Adeyemi with Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who handed him his senior Germany debut in 2021. Adeyemi described Flick as an important factor in his decision and stated that he had joined Barcelona to compete for titles.

Adeyemi becomes Barcelona’s second attacking signing of the summer after Anthony Gordon.

Shafaq News- Buenos Aires

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is reportedly considering legal action over alleged misinformation targeting the national team during the 2026 World Cup.

Foot Mercato, citing Argentine newspaper La Nacion, reported that potential defamation cases could target media outlets, influencers, and social-media users accused of circulating false allegations, manipulated material, or content presented without evidence.

According to the report, lawyers are compiling posts, screenshots, videos, and other digital records for possible proceedings. The federation has not officially confirmed the move and no lawsuits, defendants, courts, or filing dates have been announced.

Argentina faced a wave of refereeing disputes, conspiracy theories, criticism of players’ conduct, and viral footage during its run to the final, where Spain ended its title defense with a 1-0 extra-time victory.

The AFA confirmed a separate cybersecurity incident on July 9, stating that unauthorized emails may have been sent from one of its institutional accounts, and urged recipients to disregard “unusual messages” while its communications and systems departments investigated the possible breach.

Shafaq News

Spain topped FIFA’s final World Cup 2026 classificationafter winning the title, while Iraq finished 48th and last in the first editioncontested by this many national teams.

Argentina placed second after losing the final 1-0 afterextra time, followed by England and France, with Norway completing the top fiveafter eliminating Brazil on their way to the quarterfinals.

Morocco led the Arab and African teams in seventh place,while Egypt ranked 15th after reaching the Round of 16 and Algeria finished30th.

Cape Verde emerged as one of the tournament’s biggestsurprises, placing 32nd after advancing from the group stage on their World Cupdebut and pushing defending champions Argentina in a 3-2 Round-of-32 defeat.

Brazil ended 11th following their elimination by Norway, oneplace above co-hosts the United States, who finished 12th after a 4-1Round-of-16 loss to Belgium. Germany ranked 18th after Paraguay knocked themout on penalties in the Round of 32, while the Netherlands finished 17th andPortugal 13th.

Among the other regional teams, Iran placed 33rd, SaudiArabia 38th, Qatar 41st, Jordan 44th, and Tunisia 47th.

FIFA ranked teams first by the stage they reached, thenseparated those eliminated in the same round by total tournament points, goaldifference, and goals scored. Matches decided by penalty shootouts counted asdraws.

Shafaq News

Spain left NorthAmerica as world champions, but the 2026 World Cup will also be rememberedthrough a tearful goalkeeper, a disputed cable, a living statue, politicalintervention, and supporters who turned streets thousands of kilometers apartinto football stages.

Across 104 matches inthe United States, Canada, and Mexico, the expanded tournament produced storiesthat travelled far beyond scores and trophies.

Spain Rise, MessiWalks Away

Ferran Torres scoredin extra time for Spain to defeat Argentina 1-0 in the final, securing theirsecond World Cup and ending the holders’ reign.

But the lasting imagecame after the whistle. Lionel Messi accepted his runners-up medal at 39 afterwhat he had indicated would be his final World Cup match, then embraced LamineYamal as football’s most successful generation gave way to the next.

Spain’s players liftedthe trophy around Rodri, while Messi left the stage four years after completinghis career with the 2022 title.

Vozinha’s MotherReaches the Stands

Cape Verde goalkeeperVozinha became one of the tournament’s first heroes by making seven saves in a0-0 draw with Spain on his country’s World Cup debut.

The 40-year-old criedafterward because his mother, Ana Candida Evora, had been unable to travel fromCape Verde amid visa and financial difficulties. US officials subsequentlyhelped her obtain permission to enter the country, and she arrived in Miami towatch her son continue an improbable campaign.

Cape Verde advancedfrom the group stage without losing, and Vozinha faced Messi and Argentina inthe Round of 32 with his mother finally inside the stadium.

Norway End Brazil’sDream

Norway stunned Brazil2-1 in the Round of 16, with Erling Haaland helping deliver the country’sdeepest World Cup run in decades.

Brazil entered thetournament hoping Neymar could complete his international career with thetrophy that had eluded him, but he left the field in tears as Norwegian playerscelebrated one of the competition’s greatest upsets.

Norway’s run ended againstEngland in the quarterfinals, but its victory over the five-time champions hadalready changed the scale of the campaign.

Paraguay Send GermanyHome

Paraguay eliminatedGermany on penalties in the Round of 32 after holding the four-time champions toa draw.

Jose Canale convertedthe decisive kick before captain Gustavo Gomez charged through teammates andphotographers, then searched for a phone to record the celebrations himself.

For Paraguay, it was areturn to the knockout spotlight; for Germany, another campaign ended beforethe tournament’s final week.

Norway’s Vikings Rowin America

Norwegian supportersturned a synchronized rowing chant into the tournament’s most recognizablecelebration.

Thousands sat inlines, leaned backward, and pulled imaginary oars to the rhythm of drums, firstinside stadiums and later in streets, beaches, and Times Square. Policeofficers, rival supporters, and eventually Norway’s players joined them.

More than 100,000people welcomed the team home in Oslo after its quarterfinal defeat, whereCrown Prince Haakon led another Viking Row from the Royal Palace steps.

A Goal from a Cable?

Norway’s quarterfinaldefeat brought the tournament’s strangest refereeing dispute.

A clearance bygoalkeeper Orjan Nyland changed direction before England built the move thatended with Jude Bellingham’s equalizer. Norwegian players and coach Stale Solbakkeninsisted the ball had struck the cable carrying an overhead camera, whichshould have stopped play.

FIFA stated that theconnected-ball sensor detected no contact or abnormal movement, but Solbakkenmaintained his version even during Norway’s homecoming celebrations. Englandlater won 2-1 after extra time.

Donald Trump and theRed Card

United States strikerFolarin Balogun received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, carrying anautomatic suspension for the Round-of-16 meeting with Belgium.

President Donald Trumpthen personally asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the decision.FIFA placed the ban on probation, clearing Balogun to play and provokingcriticism from Belgium, UEFA figures, and governance groups.

Belgium challenged hiseligibility but FIFA rejected the case on procedural grounds. Balogun played,lost 4-1, and acknowledged that the controversy had placed additional pressureon the squad.

The episode became thetournament’s clearest collision between football discipline and host-countrypolitics.

Scotland Bring theTartan Army Back

Scotland returned tothe World Cup after 28 years and brought much of Glasgow with them.

Thousands ofsupporters filled Boston with kilts, flags, and bagpipes before the openingmatch against Haiti, marching toward Fenway Park and turning local streets andbars into a travelling Scottish festival.

The team failed toadvance from the group, but its supporters remained one of the tournament’smost visible groups, reviving the Tartan Army’s reputation for occupying a citywithout draining the occasion of humor or goodwill.

A Living CongoleseStatue

DR Congo supporterMichel Nkuka Mboladinga watched matches from a plinth with one arm raised,standing almost motionless in tribute to independence leader Patrice Lumumba.

Known as “LumumbaVea,” he recreated the pose of Lumumba’s statue in Kinshasa while celebrationsmoved around him. His silence, painted clothing, and fixed expression turned asupporter’s costume into a lesson in Congolese memory.

In a tournamentcrowded with elaborate outfits, his tribute stood apart because it carriedpolitical and historical meaning rather than novelty alone.

Football SurvivesAmong Gaza’s Ruins

One of the World Cup’smost affecting scenes unfolded far from the host cities.

Palestinians gatheredaround an outdoor screen among damaged buildings in Gaza City to watchArgentina face Egypt, sitting together in a landscape shaped by war.

The match offered nosolution to what surrounded them, only a temporary return to a familiar ritual:neighbors watching football, reacting together, and sharing two hours outsidedaily fear.

Spain ultimately tookthe trophy, but images such as that explained why the World Cup’s reach cannotbe measured only through stadium attendance, television audiences, or results.

Shafaq News- New York/ New Jersey

Spain capped their World Cup 2026 title by winning three of the tournament’s principal awards, with Rodri receiving the Golden Ball, Unai Simon the Golden Glove, and Pau Cubarsi the Young Player Award.

FIFA recognized Rodri as the competition’s best player after he controlled Spain’s midfield throughout an unbeaten campaign, while Simon’s seven clean sheets and Cubarsi’s breakthrough at centre-back completed the champions’ individual sweep. France captain Kylian Mbappe won the Golden Boot as top scorer.

Simon kept seven clean sheets in eight matches, including the 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, and set a tournament record by going 650 minutes without conceding.

Spain allowed one goal across the entire competition, the fewest ever conceded by a World Cup champion, with shutouts against Austria, Portugal, France, and Argentina in the knockout rounds.

Cubarsi started every match and became one of Spain’s main distributors from defence, ranking among the tournament leaders for completed passes while helping the champions restrict Argentina to one attempt over 120 minutes in the final.

The 19-year-old Barcelona defender claimed the Young Player Award ahead of a field that included Spain teammate Lamine Yamal.

Mbappe’s Golden Boot prevented a complete awards clean sweep, but Spain still collected every major prize based on overall tournament performance.

With Luis de la Fuente’s side finishing the World Cup unbeaten, Spain have become the first country to hold the men’s and women’s world titles simultaneously.

Shafaq News- New York/ New Jersey

Spain are World Cup 2026 champions after defeating 10-man Argentina 1-0 following extra time at New York New Jersey Stadium.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 109th minute, finishing Nico Williams’ pass to secure Spain’s second world title and end Argentina’s reign.

Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled the final for long periods, recording 15 attempts during regulation while Argentina failed to register a shot and relied on Emiliano Martinez to preserve the goalless score.

Enzo Fernandez was dismissed in second-half stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for fouling Pau Cubarsi, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s team with 10 players throughout extra time.

Williams exploited the space on Argentina’s left before finding Torres, whose finish finally beat Martinez after the goalkeeper had repeatedly denied Spain.

Lisandro Martinez had already left the match injured during the first half, forcing Scaloni to reshape his defence before Fernandez’s red card placed the holders under sustained pressure.

Lamine Yamal threatened from the right and forced Martinez into a late save from a free kick, while Rodri and Fabian Ruiz controlled midfield and kept Argentina pinned deep.

Martinez made 10 saves during regulation, the highest recorded total by a goalkeeper in a World Cup final, but could not prevent Torres from deciding the match.

Spain completed the tournament unbeaten and conceded only once, defeating Austria, Portugal, Belgium, France, and Argentina in the knockout rounds.

The victory delivered Spain’s first World Cup since Andres Iniesta’s extra-time winner against the Netherlands in 2010.

La Roja also became the first country to hold the men’s and women’s World Cups simultaneously and the first champions to receive FIFA’s newly introduced title rings alongside the trophy and gold medals.

Argentina missed the chance to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup, while Lionel Messi’s latest campaign ended with defeat four years after he captained the country to the title in Qatar.

Shafaq News- New York/ New Jersey

Spain and defending champions Argentina meet at last in the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday at New York New Jersey Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 10:00 p.m. in Baghdad.

The European and South American champions are competing for different places in history; while Spain want a second title after 2010, Argentina can win a fourth and become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to retain the trophy.

Lionel Messi could also make his final World Cup appearance at 39 against a Spain side led by 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, with the two Barcelona academy graduates carrying much of the attention before a final between Argentina’s experienced holders and Spain’s emerging generation.

The winners will become the first world champions to receive FIFA’s newly introduced title rings alongside the trophy and medals.

Two Opposite Roads

Spain reached the decider unbeaten, extending their run without defeat to 37 matches and conceding once during the tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s European champions defeated Austria 3-0, Portugal 1-0, Belgium 2-1, and France 2-0 in the knockout rounds.

Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scored in the semifinal as Spain restricted a France side led by Kylian Mbappe and qualified for their first World Cup final since 2010.

Argentina, meanwhile, retained 17 members of their 2022 title-winning squad and survived a more demanding route under Lionel Scaloni, beating Cape Verde and Egypt 3-2, Switzerland 3-1, and England 2-1 after falling behind in the semifinal.

Enzo Fernandez equalized against England in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez struck the stoppage-time winner.

Argentina lead the tournament for goals scored, while Spain hold the strongest defensive record and have allowed opponents 2.15 expected goals across seven matches.

History and Rivalry

Argentina are appearing in their seventh World Cup final, having beaten the Netherlands in 1978, West Germany in 1986, and France in 2022, while losing the 1930, 1990, and 2014 deciders. Another victory would make them the third country to win consecutive editions after Italy in 1934 and 1938 and Brazil in 1958 and 1962, while a fourth crown would move them level with Italy and Germany.

Spain’s only previous final ended with Andres Iniesta’s extra-time winner against the Netherlands in Johannesburg in 2010, leaving De la Fuente’s team one match from doubling the country’s title count.

The finalists have six wins each from 14 meetings, with two draws. Argentina won their only previous World Cup encounter 2-1 during the 1966 group stage, while Spain claimed the latest meeting 6-1 in a 2018 friendly in Madrid.

Argentina’s previous victory came in a 4-1 friendly in Buenos Aires in 2010, two months after Spain lifted their first World Cup.

Scaloni studied under De la Fuente during a Spanish Football Federation coaching course in 2017, placing a former student against his tutor on football’s biggest stage.

Messi spent most of his club career in Spain and developed at Barcelona, as did Yamal, whose childhood photograph with the Argentine during a charity calendar shoot resurfaced before the final.

What Decides the Final

Rodri and Fabian Ruiz direct Spain’s buildup, Dani Olmo moves between midfield and attack, and Yamal and Alex Baena stretch opposing defences, giving De la Fuente several routes forward without exposing large spaces behind the ball.

Yamal has recovered from a thigh problem that kept him out of one training session. De la Fuente described him as being in “perfect physical condition,” leaving Nicolas Tagliafico likely to face Spain’s strongest one-on-one attacker on Argentina’s left.

Extra defensive support for Tagliafico could free space for Olmo and Oyarzabal through the middle, while Pedri, Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, and Ferran Torres give Spain several options from the bench.

Leandro Paredes is expected to sit behind Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister, whose ability to retain possession under Spain’s pressure will determine how often Argentina can release Messi near the penalty area.

Messi has scored eight goals and provided four assists in the tournament. De la Fuente ruled out permanent man-marking but confirmed Spain would monitor him “closely.”

Space may open behind Spain’s advancing full-backs, where Messi’s passing, Mac Allister’s runs, and Julian Alvarez’s pace could punish turnovers before the defence resets.

On the other hand, Scaloni must choose between Alvarez’s movement and pressing or Lautaro Martinez’s finishing, strengthened by the Inter striker’s late winner against England.

Confronting the Pressure

De la Fuente described reaching the final as a privilege and rejected the view that only the winner would be remembered, pledging to use Spain’s strengths while keeping a “formidable” Argentina under control. He expects technical quality to outweigh hostility and sees similarities in both teams’ commitment to talent and attacking football, while rejecting comparisons between Messi and Yamal and urging Spain’s winger to develop his own identity.

Scaloni credited Argentina’s supporters with sustaining the squad’s motivation after the 2022 title, explaining that images of rival club fans celebrating together continued to inspire his players.

Emiliano Martinez pointed to supporters gathering during the Argentine winter and promised the team would make every effort to return with the trophy. Scaloni reported no major fitness concerns despite Argentina having one fewer recovery day and arriving late after travel disruption from Atlanta.

The La Albiceleste coach called Messi’s appearance in another final at 39 “incredible,” while Lautaro credited the captain with sustaining Argentina’s belief during difficult moments.

Messi enters the final two goals behind Golden Boot leader Mbappe, who finished with 10. Two goals would draw him level, with assists and minutes played then used as FIFA’s tiebreakers.

Shafaq News- Miami

England secured their first World Cup third-place finish after beating France 6-4 in a record-breaking contest in Miami, with Bukayo Saka scoring a hat-trick.

Thomas Tuchel’s side produced a four-goal first half as Declan Rice opened the scoring in the third minute, Ezri Konsa headed in from a corner, and Saka struck twice before the interval.

France responded immediately after halftime. Kylian Mbappe converted Michael Olise’s pass before Bradley Barcola made it 4-2, and the France captain added his second in the 66th minute to leave England’s lead under threat.

Saka halted the comeback by converting an 86th-minute penalty to complete his hat-trick. Ousmane Dembele restored French hope in stoppage time, but substitute Jude Bellingham carried the ball from his own half and scored England’s sixth.

The 10-goal match became the highest-scoring third-place playoff in World Cup history, surpassing France’s 6-3 victory over West Germany in 1958.

Bellingham ended the tournament with seven goals, a new England record at a single World Cup, while Mbappe moved to 10 goals in the 2026 edition and 22 overall.

“We had a brilliant first half and then a turbulent second half,” Tuchel noted, praising his players’ mentality despite fatigue and a demanding travel schedule. Saka reflected that England “won the first half” and France the second, adding that the semifinal defeat by Argentina remained painful despite the podium finish.

The match was the 187th and last of Didier Deschamps' 14 years in charge of France. He leaves with 121 wins, more than any coach in the team's history

Shafaq News- Madrid

Jose Mourinho has begun his second spell as Real Madrid coach with support from players and former internationals, but analysts question whether his methods can restore the club’s dominance.

Madrid appointed the Portuguese until June 2029 after losing LaLiga to Barcelona and exiting last season’s Champions League in the quarterfinals.

Trent Alexander-Arnold praised Mourinho’s preseason work, citing intense sessions and high standards. “The principles and the level of demand are very high,” the England defender stated, adding that he expected to learn from the coach and compete for trophies.

Jude Bellingham has also welcomed the appointment, with reports indicating Mourinho plans to move him closer to Kylian Mbappe after his output declined in a deeper role. Former Portugal defender Jorge Andrade backed Mourinho to maximize Madrid’s attacking talent, describing him as a “star” and mentor capable of reshaping the team.

Meanwhile, Iker Casillas offered a restrained endorsement after their difficult relationship during Mourinho’s first tenure. “The club has decided that Jose has to come to Real Madrid and best of luck,” the former captain told DAZN. “Let’s hope he does well, which will be good for Madrid.”

Mourinho’s authority is both the attraction and risk of the appointment, Spanish journalist Tomas Roncero told Cadena SER as the coach could provide the “electroshock” needed in the dressing room, but he is no longer the manager who arrived from treble-winning Inter Milan in 2010.

His first Madrid spell produced LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. The 2011-12 team collected 100 points and scored 121 league goals, but Mourinho left in 2013 after internal disputes and three consecutive Champions League semifinal defeats.

His second tenure will be judged on whether he can combine authority, attacking freedom, and immediate results. Los Blancos begin their LaLiga campaign against Espanyol on August 22.

Shafaq News- New York

The Iraq Football Association participated in a meeting between FIFA executives and national federations at Trump Tower in New York, attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, US President Donald Trump, and former football stars.

Iraq was represented by IFA First Vice President Sarmad Abdul Ilah and foreign relations adviser Ghaith Muhanna during the closing days of the 2026 World Cup.

Iraq played three group-stage matches and earned $12.5 million from its participation after returning to the tournament for the first time in 40 years.

Shafaq News- Miami

France and England meet in the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff in Miami at 12:00 a.m. Baghdad time on Sunday, with both sides seeking a response to semifinal disappointment.

Spain ended France’s title defense with a 2-0 victory, while England surrendered a lead in their 2-1 defeat by Argentina.

The playoff will close Didier Deschamps’ 14-year spell in charge of France. His tenure delivered the 2018 World Cup, a runner-up finish in 2022, and three consecutive semifinal appearances, and he acknowledged that neither team wanted to play for bronze but stressed France’s responsibility to finish strongly. Ibrahima Konate said the squad wanted to honor its departing coach with a victory.

Several French players are carrying physical problems, making rotation likely. Kylian Mbappe remains available but has not been guaranteed a starting place. The France captain enters the match level with Lionel Messi on eight goals in the Golden Boot race, and he has also supplied three assists, while Michael Olise leads the team with five.

France have produced 125 shots and 14 assists during the tournament, compared with England’s 98 attempts and 11 assists. Analysts cited by talkSPORT favor the French because of their attacking depth and additional recovery day, although expected lineup changes leave the contest open.

Meanwhile, England are looking to recover after Anthony Gordon’s opener against Argentina was overturned by Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. Thomas Tuchel defended his substitutions after the semifinal and rejected criticism that England became too cautious, and called the bronze playoff a chance to demonstrate progress and secure the country’s best World Cup finish since the 1966 title.

Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham have driven England’s attack with six goals each. Their finishing will again be central against a French side that has conceded only twice in the knockout rounds.

England hold the stronger overall head-to-head record, winning 17 of the countries’ 32 meetings. France have recorded 10 victories, with five draws.

Their World Cup history is more evenly balanced. England won 2-0 in 1966 and 3-1 in 1982, before France prevailed 2-1 in the 2022 quarterfinal after Kane missed a late penalty.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

Thunderstorms delayed Argentina’s departure fromAtlanta before Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain, forcing Lionel Scaloni’ssquad to remain at its hotel after airport operations were suspended.

The team, scheduled to travel on Thursday afterbeating England 2-1 in the semifinal, moved its flight to Friday morning,reducing its preparation time near the final venue.

Spain had already arrived in New Jersey and trainedoutdoors on Thursday.

Canadian wildfire smoke reduced air quality across NewYork and northern New Jersey, prompting health alerts from state authorities.The Associated Press quoted emergency physician Dr. Courtney Howard as warningthat athletes should not train outdoors when wildfire pollution reacheshazardous levels because intense exercise increases smoke inhalation.

Rain and changing winds were expected to clear much ofthe smoke before Sunday, with mostly sunny conditions and temperatures near29°C forecast around kickoff in East Rutherford.

FIFA had not announced any change to the match,scheduled for 10:00 p.m. Baghdad time at New York/ New Jersey Stadium, whenArgentina will seek to retain their championship, while Spain pursue theirsecond-ever title.

Shafaq News

FIFA will award championship rings to the 2026 WorldCup winners for the first time in tournament history, with 30 custom piecesreserved for the champions alongside the trophy and gold medals.

The governing body will produce 2,026 rings to markthe tournament year and release the remaining 1,996 as “official merchandise.”Spain and Argentina will meet at New York/ New Jersey Stadium, with the winnerbecoming the first national team to receive the rings.

Each ring will be individually numbered,custom-fitted, and issued with a certificate of authenticity. The design willfeature gold, gemstones, the World Cup trophy, and details identifying thewinning team.

The captain and coach will receive temporary ringsduring Sunday’s ceremony before the personalized versions are completed.

The initiative brings a tradition associated with theNFL, NBA, and Major League Baseball into the World Cup.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

Thomas Tuchel called for England to change their football “DNA” after Argentina overturned a 1-0 deficit to win their 2026 World Cup semifinal 2-1.

The England manager argued that his players lacked the ability to slow the match through possession once Anthony Gordon gave them the lead in the 55th minute. “It’s maybe not in our DNA like it is in the Spanish, Argentinian or Brazilian DNA to take the ball and control the game.”

He denied ordering England to retreat, explaining that the team lost duels and dropped progressively deeper under Argentina’s pressure, but then defended his switch to a back five, as the structure was intended to “close gaps” and confront Argentina’s wide players more aggressively.

“We encouraged everyone to step out and be more active, but we struggled,” he added. “We couldn’t find any duels.”

England held 12% possession between Gordon’s goal and Enzo Fernandez’s 85th-minute equalizer, the lowest recorded share for a team leading a World Cup match for at least 10 minutes since 1966. During that period, Argentina completed 160 passes in the attacking third to England’s four and recorded 97.6% field tilt.

Tuchel replaced Gordon, Declan Rice, and Reece James with defenders Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, and Nico O’Reilly. Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, and Ollie Watkins remained unused. The changes left Harry Kane isolated and removed England’s counterattacking outlet before Lionel Messi assisted Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.

UEFA-licensed analysts at Coaches’ Voice found that the back five failed to close England’s shape, with space remaining between midfield and defence as Argentina pushed more players forward.

Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew argued that Tuchel’s substitutions reinforced a negative mentality, while Kane acknowledged that England tried to protect the lead rather than continue playing.

The defeat continued England’s record of losing major knockout matches after scoring first. They led Croatia before a 2-1 extra-time defeat in the 2018 World Cup semifinal and opened the scoring against Italy before losing the Euro 2020 final on penalties.

England have also lost all seven World Cup knockout matches against FIFA top-10 opponents since 1998. Their only successful World Cup semifinal remains the 1966 victory over Portugal, the year they won their sole major men’s trophy.

The 60-year wait has sustained the “It’s Coming Home” refrain, taken from the 1996 song Three Lions and revived at every major tournament.

Tuchel rejected the idea of a curse but acknowledged that England must impose themselves more effectively in decisive matches, and confirmed his intention to remain through Euro 2028.

Shafaq News- Madrid

Atletico Madrid President Enrique Cerezo dismissed Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez, stating that counterpart Joan Laporta “already knows” where the Argentina striker will play next season.

Laporta had confirmed that Barcelona submitted a substantial offer for the 26-year-old, with the club unwilling to leave the proposal open indefinitely, but Atletico have maintained that Alvarez is not for sale and remains central to their plans, with his contract running until June 2030.

Barcelona first contacted Atletico in April before publicly confirming their bid on July 1. Arsenal have also been linked with the forward, although Barcelona are reportedly his preferred destination.

The pursuit has revived scrutiny of Barcelona’s failure to sign Alvarez earlier in his career. Agent Josep Maria Minguella previously explained that the club were offered the River Plate striker for about $23 million in 2021 but instead signed Ferran Torres from Manchester City for approximately $69 million.

Alvarez later joined City before moving to Atletico in 2024.

He recorded 20 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances during the 2025-26 season, including 10 Champions League goals.

The striker is currently focused on Argentina’s World Cup campaign and has not addressed the latest transfer claims. La Albiceleste will face Spain in Sunday’s final at New York/ New Jersey Stadium.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

Jude Bellingham ended England’s 2026 World Cup with six goals and growing acclaim from Wayne Rooney, Gary Lineker, and other former internationals who placed him among football’s leading players.

Rooney, a legend of Manchester United, called the 23-year-old the tournament’s best performer before England’s 2-1 semifinal defeat by Argentina, while Lineker suggested he could become the country’s greatest-ever footballer.

Meanwhile, ex-Manchester City right-back Micah Richards described Bellingham as England’s best player and a “genuine superstar,” citing his personality, Champions League experience, and record in major matches.

Bellingham strengthened those claims with four goals in two knockout games. He scored twice in England’s 3-2 round-of-16 victory over Mexico, then struck another double against Norway, including the extra-time winner in a 2-1 quarterfinal victory.

The midfielder finished level with Harry Kane as England’s leading scorer and matched Lineker’s national record of six non-penalty goals at one major tournament.

“Enough said. He does it every single match. World-class,” England coach Thomas Tuchel stated after the Norway win.

Bellingham also became the first player since Diego Maradona in 1986 to score twice in consecutive World Cup knockout matches.

Jordan Henderson had called him a “big-game player” before the tournament, while Michael Owen argued that his performances had placed him in the Ballon d’Or discussion.

The campaign added international production to a career already containing a Champions League title, the Golden Boy award, and the Kopa Trophy with Real Madrid. Nine of Bellingham’s first 12 England goals came at major tournaments, underlining his impact in high-pressure matches.

Still, he could not prevent Argentina from overturning England’s lead in Atlanta, leaving a distinction between Rooney’s claim that he was the tournament’s best player and the broader debate over football’s top star. Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, and other leading players remain part of that discussion, while the World Cup’s individual awards will be decided after Sunday’s final.

England will face France in Saturday’s third-place playoff, giving Bellingham one final chance to add to his six goals.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

Lionel Messi supplied two assists as Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 after extra time and reach the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the 55th minute, finishing Morgan Rogers’ delivery beyond Emiliano Martinez.

Argentina increased the pressure and nearly equalized when Alexis Mac Allister struck the post. Messi then created the breakthrough in the 85th minute, working a short corner before finding Enzo Fernandez, whose finish forced extra time.

The Argentina captain then set up Lautaro Martinez for the winner, threading the ball into the penalty area for the striker to beat Jordan Pickford.

England pushed forward late through Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham but failed to find another goal.

The result repeated the 2-1 scoreline from the countries’ famous 1986 World Cup quarterfinal, when Diego Maradona scored the “Hand of God” and Goal of the Century.

Argentina advanced to a second successive final and moved one victory from becoming the first nation to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962, while England’s defeat ended their bid to reach a first final since winning the tournament in 1966.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

FIFA banned Falklands/ Malvinas flags from Atlanta Stadiumbefore Wednesday’s England-Argentina World Cup semifinal, with 1,600 officersdeployed around a fixture under heightened US security.

Media reports stated that planning involved the FBI, AtlantaPolice, FIFA officials, and other federal agencies over concerns of disorderbetween the rival fan bases. England and Argentina supporters were assignedseparate stadium entrances, while patrols were reinforced around the venue,downtown Atlanta, and areas where fans were expected to gather.

Argentina’s Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva confirmedthat banners asserting sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, known in Argentinaas the Malvinas, would be blocked from entering the stadium. Political, racial,and other provocative messages were also prohibited.

Thousands of Argentina supporters gathered at UndergroundAtlanta before kickoff, waving flags, beating drums, and carrying images ofDiego Maradona, and Malvinas-related banners appeared during the gatheringbefore FIFA’s stadium restriction took effect.

No major clash involving England fans was officiallyconfirmed before kickoff.

The countries fought a 74-day war over the islands in 1982.Four years later, Maradona scored the disputed “Hand of God” goal inArgentina’s 2-1 World Cup quarterfinal victory over England.

The winner today will face Spain in Sunday’s World Cupfinal.

Shafaq News- Atlanta

England and defending champions Argentina meet in the second 2026 World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, renewing one of the tournament’s most historic rivalries with a place against Spain in the final at stake.

Kickoff at Atlanta Stadium is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. Baghdad time. The winner will advance to Sunday’s final, while the loser will face France in the third-place playoff.

England are seeking their first World Cup final since winning the title on home soil in 1966. Thomas Tuchel’s side reached the last four with a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, led by two goals from Jude Bellingham.

Argentina, meanwhile, are pursuing a second consecutive final and the first successful World Cup title defence since Brazil retained the trophy in 1962. Lionel Scaloni’s team defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time, with Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scoring the decisive late goals.

The semifinal will also mark Lionel Messi’s first appearance against England. The 39-year-old has faced most of international football’s leading nations across six World Cups but has never played the Three Lions.

England and Argentina have met five times at the World Cup, with England winning three and Argentina two. But their rivalry intensified in the 1966 quarterfinal at Wembley, when Argentina captain Antonio Rattin was dismissed during England’s 1-0 victory and initially refused to leave the pitch.

The most famous meeting followed in Mexico in 1986. Diego Maradona opened the scoring by using his hand to beat England goalkeeper Peter Shilton, producing the goal later known as the “Hand of God.”

Four minutes later, Maradona collected the ball inside his own half, passed several England players, rounded Shilton, and completed the strike later voted the World Cup’s Goal of the Century. Argentina won 2-1 and went on to lift the trophy.

The countries met once again in the 1998 round of 16, when Argentina advanced on penalties after a 2-2 draw. David Beckham was sent off for kicking out at Diego Simeone, becoming the central figure in England’s elimination.

Beckham answered four years later by converting the penalty that gave England a 1-0 victory at the 2002 World Cup, their most recent tournament meeting.

Wednesday’s semifinal places that history beside a new generation. Bellingham and Harry Kane carry England’s scoring threat, while Argentina rely on Messi, Alvarez, Martinez, and Alexis Mac Allister.

Spain and England: From 1950 to Euro 2024

A Spain-England final would revive a rivalry shaped more by European competition than the World Cup.

The countries have met twice at the tournament. Spain won their first encounter 1-0 during the final group stage of the 1950 World Cup in Brazil, a result that eliminated England from contention.

Their second World Cup meeting came in Spain in 1982. The match ended 0-0 during the second group phase, leaving England unbeaten but eliminated after failing to score the victory required to advance.

More recent encounters have carried greater consequences. England defeated Spain 3-2 in Seville during the 2018 Nations League, scoring three times in the first half before surviving a Spanish response.

Spain later eliminated England on penalties in the Euro 1996 quarterfinal at Wembley after a goalless draw, while England defeated La Roja in a Nations League meeting two decades later.

But their defining modern contest came in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin. Nico Williams put Spain ahead, Cole Palmer equalized for England, and Mikel Oyarzabal scored the late winner in a 2-1 victory that delivered Spain’s fourth European title.

A World Cup final between them would therefore give England an immediate chance to answer their Euro 2024 defeat, while Spain would seek a second major-final victory over the same generation in two years.

Spain and Argentina: A Rare Rivalry

A Spain-Argentina final, on the other hand, would bring together the reigning European and South American champions in their first competitive meeting for six decades.

Their only previous World Cup match came during the 1966 group stage, when Argentina won 2-1 at Villa Park.

The countries have met more frequently in friendlies, producing several notable results.

Argentina defeated Spain 4-1 in Buenos Aires in 2010, only weeks after La Roja won their first World Cup title.

Spain produced the heaviest result in the rivalry eight years later, winning 6-1 in Madrid. Isco scored a hat-trick, while an injured Messi watched from the stands.

The teams were due to meet in the Finalissima as champions of Europe and South America, but the fixture was cancelled.

A World Cup final would replace that missed meeting with a larger prize –Spain would be chasing their second title after 2010, and Argentina would be seeking a fourth crown and the first successful defence of the trophy in 64 years.

Before either final becomes reality, England and Argentina must settle another chapter of a rivalry defined by Rattin, Maradona, Beckham, penalties, controversy, and redemption.