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		<title>Latest Men's FIFA World Cup News &amp; Videos from FOX Sports</title>
		<link>https://www.foxsports.com/soccer/fifa-world-cup</link>
		<description>Breaking Men's FIFA World Cup news, videos, articles, and stories from FOX Sports.</description>
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			<title>Latest Men's FIFA World Cup News &amp; Videos from FOX Sports</title>
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			<link>https://www.foxsports.com/soccer/fifa-world-cup</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2026 09:44:05 -0400</pubDate>
		<copyright>Copyright 2026 FOX Sports</copyright>
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				<title>
					<![CDATA[Brazil Begins Post-Neymar Era With João Pedro And Estevão In Squad]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/brazil-begins-post-neymar-era-joao-pedro-estevao-squad</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/brazil-begins-post-neymar-era-joao-pedro-estevao-squad</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Carlo Ancelotti started his complete overhaul of Brazil's national team on Wednesday by announcing a squad with few of the players he took to the World Cup three months ago and several young talents.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:27:23 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Carlo Ancelotti started his complete overhaul of Brazil's national team on Wednesday by announcing a squad with few of the players he took to the World Cup three months ago and several young talents. His team will play two friendlies against Australia, on Sept. 25 in Townsville and 29 in Brisbane, and its first ever match against India on Oct. 3 in Kolkata, where it has millions of fans. Ancelotti, as he promised in an interview with The Associated Press in July after the round of 16 World Cup elimination against Norway, called up several players who will also be eligible for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, hoping he can use them as the spine of his squad in the 2030 World Cup. FULL BRAZIL SQUAD Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza (Corinthians), Pedro Morisco (Coritiba), Otavio (Cruzeiro). Defenders: Artur Dias (Athletico Paranaense), Wesley (Roma), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Douglas Santos (Zenit St. Petersburg), Jair (Nottingham Forest), Matheuzinho (Corinthians), Maurio Júnior (PSV Eindhoven), Vitor Reis (Manchester City). Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Arsenal), Andrey Santos (Manchester United), Danilo Santos (Botafogo), Douglas Luiz (Juventus), Breno Bidon (Corinthians), Gabriel Bontempo (Santos). Forwards: Endrick, Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Rayan (Bournemouth), Joao Pedro (Chelsea), Samuel Lino and Pedro (Flamengo). Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Julián Quiñones Becomes Second-Ever Mexican Player Nominated For Ballon d'Or]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/julian-quinones-becomes-second-ever-mexican-player-nominated-ballon-dor</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/julian-quinones-becomes-second-ever-mexican-player-nominated-ballon-dor</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Julián Quiñones has earned a spot on the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist, making him only the second Mexican player in history to be nominated for the award.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 17:52:18 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Mexico had so many memorable moments as co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup and one of their most dynamic players has made the short list for soccer's most prestigious awards. Julián Quiñones has earned a spot on the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist, making him only the second Mexican player in history to be nominated for the award. Recently retired goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa was the first, earning a nomination in 2007. The 29-year-old forward, who plays for both the Mexico national team and Saudi Pro League club Al-Qadsiah, put together a season that combined individual scoring records with a standout World Cup run. Quiñones closed out the 2025 Saudi Pro League season with 33 goals in 31 appearances, winning the league's Golden Boot ahead of Ivan Toney and five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo. He carried that form into the World Cup, where Mexico served as one of three co-host nations. In the tournament opener against South Africa, Quiñones scored Mexico's first goal of the tournament, becoming the first player from a CONCACAF nation to score the opening goal of a World Cup. Quinones went on to score three more goals and add an assist as Mexico advanced to the round of 16, where the team was eliminated by England. England went on to finish third after an appearance in the semifinals. Mexico also managed to end a 40-year drought in knockout stage matches with a round of 32 win over Ecuador. With four goals at the tournament, Quiñones joins Luis Hernandez and Javier Hernandez as the only Mexican players to score four goals at a single World Cup, tying the national record. Quiñones switched his international allegiance from his native Colombia to Mexico in 2023. Before moving to Saudi Arabia, he spent nearly a decade in Liga MX with Tigres UANL, Venados, Lobos BUAP, Atlas and Club América, appearing in 258 matches, scoring 94 goals and winning nine LIGA MX titles, including back-to-back championships with Atlas in 2021 and 2022 that ended a 70-year title drought for the club. The Ballon d'Or winner will be announced on Monday, October 26, 2026. The ceremony will be held at the London Palladium in England, the first time the event has taken place there.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Ballon d'Or 2026 Nominees: Kane, Mbappé And Yamal Headline 30-Man Shortlist]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/ballon-dor-2026-nominees-kane-mbappe-yamal-headline-30-man-shortlist</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/ballon-dor-2026-nominees-kane-mbappe-yamal-headline-30-man-shortlist</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Ousmane Dembélé, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé are contenders for the men’s Ballon d’Or.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2026 13:31:40 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Last year’s winner Ousmane Dembélé, Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappé are among the top contenders for the men’s Ballon d’Or. The 30 men’s and 30 women’s nominees were revealed by France Football magazine on Tuesday, with the winners to be announced at a ceremony in London on Oct. 26. In the women's field, two-time winner Alexia Putellas, Ewa Pajor and Melchie Dumornay are among the favorites to take over Aitana Bonmatí. The winner of the past three women’s awards, Bonmatí did not make the cut after missing most of the season through injury. She returned at the end of Barcelona’s quadruple-winning season that included another Champions League title. Dembélé and Mbappé both played for France at the World Cup, where their team lost to eventual champion Spain in the semifinals. Although it's difficult to win the accolade without a major trophy, Mbappé made history when he overtook Lionel Messi for the most all-time World Cup goals (22) in less games. After claiming a second straight Champions League title with Paris Saint-Germain, Dembélé has a chance to retain the Ballon d'Or. Kane had one of his best seasons, scoring 73 goals for club and country and winning the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. Kane also led England to a third-place finish at the World Cup. The 39-year-old Messi, who has a record eight Ballon d’Or awards, was on the shortlist after guiding Argentina to a runner-up finish at the World Cup and winning Major League Soccer with Inter Miami. The other three Ballon d’Or winners still active, Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Luka Modric, were not in the list. PSG Dominatess Dembélé was one of nine PSG players nominated for the men’s award, including Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Nuno Mendes, Willian Pacho, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha. In an interview with France Football, Dembélé said he expects the award to remain at PSG. Asked to name his top three in no particular order, he cited PSG teammate Kvaratskhelia, Kane and Mbappé. He also mentioned Michael Olise, Lamine Yamal, Ruiz and Pacho, but did not include himself. "I don’t think the trophy is undecided. I think it will remain in the hands of a Paris Saint-Germain player," he said. The other men’s nominees include Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, Ferran Torres — who scored Spain's winner in the World Cup final — Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham. Italy, which did not qualify for the World Cup, and the Netherlands and Germany had no representatives. Only one player from Serie A, Lautaro Martínez of Inter Milan, was selected. There was no goalkeeper nominated, ensuring Lev Yashin remains the only keeper to win the coveted trophy (1963) for another year. The Ballon d’Or ceremony is moving from its traditional Paris home to London this year to mark the 70th anniversary of the first award won by England great Stanley Matthews. The Voting System The Ballon d’Or was created by France Football and has been awarded since 1956 for men, and since 2018 for women. It is voted for by journalists from the top 100 countries in the FIFA rankings for the men’s award and the top 50 FIFA-ranked countries for the women’s award. Each journalist, one per country, selects players in ranked order with points attributed to each position. The winner is the player who receives the most points. Organizers say the trophy is awarded based on three criteria, in order of importance: 1, individual performances, decisive and impressive character; 2, collective performances and titles won; 3, class and fair play. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé Believes 'It's A Good Year' For His First Ballon d’Or]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/kylian-mbappe-believes-its-good-year-his-first-ballon-dor</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/kylian-mbappe-believes-its-good-year-his-first-ballon-dor</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé believes this could be the year he wins the Ballon d’Or for the first time.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 07 Sep 2026 14:09:30 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé believes this could be the year he wins the Ballon d’Or for the first time. He's optimistic after winning his second consecutive World Cup Golden Boot with 10 goals, the most in 56 years. He also overtook Lionel Messi for the most all-time World Cup goals with 22. There were also 42 goals in 44 matches for Real Madrid, although the club finished last season without a major trophy. "There are many people who speak about me and the Ballon d’Or. Of course, I’ve made history in the most important competition. Maybe it’s a good year for this, but people can vote according to what they think," Mbappé said on Monday. The award will be presented on Oct. 26 in London. The men’s Ballon d’Or last year was won by Ousmane Dembele after Paris Saint-Germain won its first Champions League title. "I think when you play for Real Madrid, the best club in the world, people automatically associate you with this award," Mbappé added. "I always think I’m the best, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion." Other strong candidates include Harry Kane — 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern Munich — and Lamine Yamal, who won the World Cup with Spain and La Liga with Barcelona. "I don’t like making comparisons because I do a lot of things that others don’t," Mbappé said. "If we get into that it becomes an endless debate, you know?" His best finish in the voting was third in 2023. He spoke ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan in Madrid on Tuesday. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[USA Coach Mauricio Pochettino Waits On Noahkai Banks — And Warns Cavan Sullivan]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usa-coach-mauricio-pochettino-waits-noahkai-banks-and-warns-cavan-sullivan</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usa-coach-mauricio-pochettino-waits-noahkai-banks-and-warns-cavan-sullivan</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said on Monday that 19-year-old German-American center back Noahkai Banks has still not decided which country to represent.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 07 Sep 2026 14:01:13 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Mauricio Pochettino’s first U.S. men’s national team roster since the World Cup will be young, but it won’t include 19-year-old German-American defender Noahkai Banks. Pochettino on Monday said during a video conference with reporters that he’s been in contact with Banks in the two months since the USA was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Belgium in the round of 16, but that the Hawaii-born center-back still hasn’t decided whether to represent the Stars and Stripes or four-time World Cup champ Die Mannschaft. "Noahkai didn't change his mind and is waiting — still no decision, and of course we cannot consider him for the next camp," Pochettino said ahead of stateside exhibitions against Peru, Chile, Mexico and Canada later this month. But the Argentine coach, who signed a new four-year contract with the U.S. Soccer Federation last month, indicated that the squad, which he said would include around 26 field players and four goalkeepers, will mix members of the World Cup roster with promising newcomers who could play a big role during qualifying for the 2030 World Cup — and at the main event itself. Perhaps the most interesting name potentially in the mix is 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan, who has starred for the Philadelphia Union since MLS returned from its World Cup break in mid-July. Sullivan has scored in each of the Union’s last three games. On a recent episode of Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union podcast, Sullivan said he believes he could’ve helped Pochettino’s side against Belgium. "I think I could come into that game on the right side and make a difference," he told the FOX Sports analyst and former USA defender. "You have to believe in yourself; you have to think you can help your team win. "It’s not my team yet," Sullivan added. "But I’m obviously always dreaming and hoping call-ups." Although Pochettino didn’t mention Sullivan by name, he seemed to allude to the interview when specifically asked about Philadelphia’s cache of youngsters. Quinn Sullivan, Cavan’s older brother, and Nathan Harriel both played for the U.S. in 2025, while defenders Neil Pierre and Frankie Westfield are quickly emerging as two of the promising young players in the program. "We are very happy about to have all these potential good players," Pochettino said. "Only we need to be careful, no? We need to be careful, because when you are young, of course, you need to be confident, you need to have the trust in yourself and belief that you can perform and you can do well. "But the thing is, there is a limit," he continued. "The balance is the most important, and one of our responsibilities is to protect these guys because sometimes if you play well and you are 17, 16 or 18, people start to talk about that you are Messi or you are a big star in the world because you do some few good things. "That can be dangerous for your career, and that is what we don't want," Pochettino added.  "I say you only are entitled to talk a little bit out of order if you are Messi. If you win eight Ballon d’Ors, you can talk with a certain arrogance, but even Messi, you are never going to hear him talking in this way." Another teenager who could receive his first senior team invite is Crystal Palace forward Zavier Gozo. Pochettino included Gozo, who scored six goals in 16 games for Real Salt Lake before transferring to the Premier League side this summer, on his 55-player provisional World Cup roster but not the final 26. But other Americans who recently moved from MLS to England could be allowed to skip FIFA’s new extended September-October window as they adapt to a new club environment, Pochettino said, noting that 2026 World Cup veterans like Middlesbrough’s Max Arfsten and Sebastian Berhalter are known quantities at this point. With the Steve Cherundolo-coached U.S. under-23 team idle until November, Pochettino will have access to as many youngsters as he wants. But he also wants to win. The U.S. is 0-2 against chief rival Mexico under the former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager, and also lost to Canada — led by American Jesse Marsch — in the 2025 Concacaf Nations League finals. "I think we cannot bring a whole squad of young players," he said. "They need to have next to them some guys with experience already."]]>
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					<![CDATA[Goalkeeper Ronald Koeman Jr. Scores Twice To Salvage Point For Telstar]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/goalkeeper-ronald-koeman-jr-scores-twice-salvage-point-telstar</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/goalkeeper-ronald-koeman-jr-scores-twice-salvage-point-telstar</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Telstar goalkeeper Ronald Koeman Jr. once again displayed his penalty-taking skills which included an equalizer deep into second-half stoppage time.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Sun, 06 Sep 2026 20:09:37 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Telstar goalkeeper Ronald Koeman Jr. has again displayed his penalty-taking skills, including an equalizer deep into second-half stoppage time. The 31-year-old Koeman, who is the son of former Dutch star Ronald Koeman, scored twice from the penalty spot on Sunday. He converted a penalty kick in the 63rd minute and another 11 minutes into stoppage time to salvage a 2-2 home draw for Telstar against Cambuur in the Dutch league. Koeman Jr. had already attracted attention last season after converting a late penalty that helped the club avoid a relegation playoff. Koeman Sr. starred for Barcelona and the Dutch national team, and also coached the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Minnesota Fans Take Part In Norway Viking Row Before Home Opener]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/minnesota-fans-norway-viking-row-world-cup</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/minnesota-fans-norway-viking-row-world-cup</guid>
				<category>college-football</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Minnesota Golden Gophers fans did the Norway Viking Row prior to the team's 2026 season opener on Thursday night.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:41:41 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[The spirit of Erling Haaland and Norway is alive and well in Minneapolis. Prior to the Minnesota Golden Gophers' 2026 season opener at home against the Eastern Illinois Panthers on Thursday night, Minnesota fans did the Norwegian Viking Row, which was a continuous scene among fans in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as Norway made its way to the quarterfinal round of the tournament for the first time in program history. Of course, the Viking Row sees somebody bang a drum and the crowd simulate rowing a boat, while chanting "row." In this case, it was thousands of shirtless Golden Gophers fans at Huntington Bank Stadium. In the Viking spirit, perhaps the local Minnesota Vikings substitute the "SKOL" rally for the Viking Row this season? Okay, probably not. Maybe it could be included in the home experience, though? As for the actual game, Minnesota handled Eastern Illinois, 59-7. The Golden Gophers rushed for 156 yards and five touchdowns, three of those scores coming from senior running back Darius Taylor. Junior quarterback Drake Lindsey threw for 264 yards and one touchdown, posted a 185.3 passer rating and completed 79.2% of his passes (19 of 24). Minnesota, which averaged seven yards per play, out-gained Eastern Illinois in total yards, 495-110. The highlight of the night was fifth-year senior wide receiver Javon Tracy running back two punts for a touchdown, one of them going 87 yards with 2:14 remaining in the first quarter and the other going 69 yards with 13:26 remaining in the third quarter. Next up for Minnesota is a home tilt against the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Sept. 12, with the Golden Gophers' Big Ten opener coming on the road against the Washington Huskies on Sept. 26.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Marcos Llorente, 31, Announces Shock Retirement From Spain After Winning World Cup]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/marcos-llorente-31-announces-shock-retirement-from-spain-after-winning-world-cup</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/marcos-llorente-31-announces-shock-retirement-from-spain-after-winning-world-cup</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[World Cup winner Marcos Llorente retired from Spain's team on Thursday.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:43:28 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[World Cup winner Marcos Llorente retired from Spain's team on Thursday. The 31-year-old right back, who has won 27 caps, said on Instagram that it was a "very carefully considered" personal decision. The post came accompanied by a photo of him holding the trophy he helped Spain win in July. The Atletico Madrid player said he had already made up his mind before the World Cup. "I am aware that I am still young and that, perhaps, if I continued to do things well, I still had years left to play in this jersey," Llorente said. "I know that many of you won’t understand, and I probably wouldn’t have understood it from the outside either. But it is a personal decision, very carefully considered and, above all, deeply felt. "I can only be eternally grateful to all the people I have met during these years who have made it possible for my family and me to experience unique and unforgettable moments. I will cherish everything I have experienced, but above all, these last 52 days. With a wonderful group that fought until the very end to put Spain on top. And they did." Llorente's first appeared for Spain in 2020. He also made the squad for the 2022 World Cup, but was not in the team that won the 2024 European Championship. "It has been an honor to represent my country and be a part of this history," he said. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[USA's Next Generation: 12 Youngsters In The Early Mix For The 2030 World Cup]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usas-next-generation-12-youngsters-early-mix-2030-world-cup</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usas-next-generation-12-youngsters-early-mix-2030-world-cup</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Left off the USA's 2026 World Cup roster, these 12 Americans are in the early mix for 2030.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:00:57 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[When the U.S. men’s national team reconvenes on Sept. 21 to prepare for four exhibition games late this month and early next, it will probably look different from the 26-player squad that reached the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Forward Christian Pulisic hasn’t played for AC Milan since suffering two microfractures in his right leg during the tournament co-hosts’ humiliating 4-1 knockout loss to Belgium. World Cup captain Tim Ream turns 39 next month and has likely played his last match for his country. On the first steps toward the centennial 2030 competition co-hosted mostly by Morocco, Portugal and Spain, it’s possible that freshly rehired coach Mauricio Pochettino will leave several other established Americans home when he drops his next roster on or around Sept. 17. If that’s the case, some of those regulars could be replaced by familiar names who missed the World Cup but are playing regularly and well in early 2026–27, or by youngsters who are either just beginning their international careers and/or vying for a spot on the U.S. under-23 squad that will compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The USA opens its four-match slate of friendlies against Peru in Orlando on Sept. 26, the start of a rare stretch of unofficial games and, crucially, training sessions before the Concacaf Nations League returns in November and next March — and before the 2027 Gold Cup kicks off on FOX’s air next summer. Poch's side also faces Chile (Sept. 29) before closing out the camp with games against regional rivals Mexico (Oct. 3) and Canada (Oct. 6). With the Steve Cherundolo-led U-23s idle until FIFA’s November window, Pochettino has the chance to take a first-hand look at the next generation. The Argentine's best skill as a coach is identifying emerging talents like Alex Freeman, the now-22-year-old defender who went from uncapped prospect in mid-2025 to World Cup starter a year later. Freeman scored in the group stage win over Australia and logged the second-most minutes of any American in the tournament, behind only Weston McKennie. "It's going to be important to provide the young kids that we really believe have the potential to arrive in 2030 in four years to start to work and start to know [what] we expect from them," Pochettino told me and other reporters on the day his return was announced. "They need to feel if they perform, they can have the possibility to join us." Here are some of the candidates: When Gozo scored six goals in 16 MLS appearances for Real Salt Lake this spring, Pochettino seriously considered taking the uncapped teenager to the World Cup. Palace saw enough to drop a $15 million transfer fee on the Utah native, who made his Premier League debut for the Eagles in last week’s loss to Manchester City. That makes Gozo an obvious candidate for the upcoming games — unless Poch opts to leave the youngster back in London for this camp so he can continue acclimating to his new surroundings. Sullivan has been sensational for Philly since MLS returned from its World Cup break, with four goal contributions in the Union’s last four games. The Man City prospect has also scored in two straight matches, including a beauty in last week’ 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls. Were Sullivan to play in any of the Americans' games this fall, he’d become the youngest player to represent the U.S. men since 16-year-old Freddy Adu in 2006. For a program in need of young center backs, the timing of Pierre’s recent emergence is perfect. Named the top defender in MLS’s developmental "Next Pro" league last season, the towering (he’s 6-foot-7) Pierre made his first team debut for Philadelphia last season, then spent the first half of 2026 on loan to Copenhagen-based Lyngby, which he helped get promoted to the Danish top flight this spring. Pierre has started seven of the Union’s nine games since returning in July and scored an astounding four goals, including last weekend against the Red Bulls. When the seven-time European champions shipped Musah to Italian rivals Atalanta on loan last season, it seemed his career with the Rossoneri was over — especially after starting just five Serie A games in 2025-26 and missing out on a World Cup trip. But Musah, who started all four games for the U.S. at Qatar 2022, returned to the San Siro and won over new manager Rúben Amorim, who has kept the American in the heart of his midfield for every minute of Milan’s first two matches this campaign. Unlike Musah, Morris came agonizingly close to making the World Cup roster following a strong 2025-26 campaign during which ‘Boro narrowly missed out on promotion to the Prem. He’s been even better to start the new season, scoring a spectacular goal in Wednesday’s 1-1 tie away to Burnley. With Ream gone and Miles Robinson turning 30 early next year, Pochettino needs new center backs. Poch gave Campbell his first cap in early 2025, when he was still playing for MLS club CF Montreal. Now 25, the Atlanta United academy product is captaining West Brom in his second season with the English Championship club. After four matches, the Baggies are tied for the final spot in the second tier’s Premier League promotion playoffs. The former Atlanta United left back will compete in the UEFA Champions League this season after he (and fellow American Samuel Adeniran, who is now injured) knocked Scottish behemoth Celtic out of the competition last month. He could be an option if either of Poch’s two World Cup left backs — Antonee "Jedi" Robinson and understudy Max Arfsten, who is still settling in with Middlesbrough — aren’t summoned. Once a left back himself, the Connecticut-born left-footer has been deployed as an attacker under Revs coach (and 2024 U.S. Olympic boss) Marko Mitrović. Miller, who turns 19 in November, has responded with four goals and four assists in 20 appearances, 14 of them starts. Though Campbell burst onto the scene two years ago by making Champions League and Bundesliga appearances for German titans Borussia Dortmund, the 5-foot-7 Texan had a disappointing 2025-26 on loan to Hoffenheim, playing in just five league games. He joined newly promoted Elversberg in July and got off to a fast start in last week’s season-opening upset of Malik Tillman’s Bayer Leverkusen, starting and scoring in the 3-2 win. Campbell has two more chances to impress before Pochettino names his squad: on Sunday at Borussia Mönchengladbach and home to Bayern Munich on Sept. 13. Although he has just one goal in 18 MLS regular season games for the Lions in 2026, Ellis is a skillful, intelligent and versatile player. He has also developed a quick partnership with onetime U.S. striker Daryl Dike and France/Atlético Madrid legend Antoine Griezmann, contributing seven assists. Pochettino started Busio in his first two games and U.S. coach but hasn’t recalled him since late 2024. But Busio is now back in Serie A for the third time with the Venice-based Winged Lions, and is both captaining the club this season. With a new cycle just beginning, has the classy Busio earned another look? The best keeper on the best team in MLS this season, Schwake’s 77.3 save percentage leads the league ahead of World Cup winner Hugo Lloris and U.S. veteran Matt Turner. Schwake conceded just 17 goals in Nashville’s 22 matches, keeping 10 clean sheets and logging every minute along the way. Before joining Nashville last year, the Illinois native played for lower league clubs in Spain and Scotland.]]>
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					<![CDATA[After Watching World Cup, 16-Year-Old Cavan Sullivan Sets Sights On USA Call-Up]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/after-watching-world-cup-16-year-old-cavan-sullivan-sets-sights-usa-call-up</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/after-watching-world-cup-16-year-old-cavan-sullivan-sets-sights-usa-call-up</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[16-year-old Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan has his sights set on the United States men's national team, as he targets a future call-up.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 16:15:51 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[16-year-old Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan has his sights set on the United States men's national team, as he expressed confidence that he could make an impact in senior international matches, targeting a future call-up. Sullivan's rapid ascent up the United States soccer ladder has shaped how the teenager watches the senior national team, viewing senior team matches not just as a spectator, but as a stage he intends to reach sooner rather than later. Speaking on Alexi Lalas' State of the Union podcast, Sullivan reflected on the United States' round of 16 World Cup loss to Belgium, Sullivan expressed confidence in his ability to be an asset for the national team. "Thinking of that Belgium game, I think I could come into that game on the right side and make a difference, right? That’s just what, you have to believe in yourself, you have to think you can help your team win," Sullivan said. "It's not my team yet, but I'm obviously always dreaming and hoping call-ups." The Philadelphia Union midfielder made history at age 14, when he became not only the youngest player to appear in a Major League Soccer match, he also became the youngest player to debut in a major American or Canadian professional sports league. The hype surrounding Sullivan has mushroomed by the day in MLS and could go global by the time he is expected to transfer to Premier League powerhouse Manchester City at the end of 2027 when he is 18. Though Sullivan remains in the early stages of his career, he pays close attention to the senior national team, particularly during its recent World Cup run. Despite USA's early World Cup exit, Sullivan said he thought supporters of the team established a presence as tournament co-hosts. "The U.S. made some noise for sure, I think it was dope," Sullivan said. Sullivan pointed to Alex Freeman's header to extend USA's lead against Australia as a defining moment of the tournament. "Freeman’s header, that moment, I texted my family group chat, that actually gave me goosebumps, I think that was so cool, I think the crowd pop was insane," Sullivan said. Seeing the celebrations and hearing entire stadiums sing across the country also made a strong impression on the midfielder. "I think the country roads, all that stuff, I ate that up," Sullivan said. "I’m pretty patriotic and I love that stuff so it was really cool to see." Sullivan said he had hoped the co-hosts would make a deeper run in the tournament. "Unfortunate to lose that early, I feel like that team could have gone much farther," Sullivan added. For now, Sullivan will spend at least one more year playing stateside before potentially heading abroad to Manchester City. As the national team begins its next World Cup cycle, the 16-year-old midfielder continues working toward making the transition from watching those big tournament moments as a supporter to helping create them as a player on the international stage.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lionel Messi To Get Mid-Game Tributes By Soccer Teams Across Argentina]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-get-mid-game-tributes-soccer-teams-across-argentina</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-get-mid-game-tributes-soccer-teams-across-argentina</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Soccer teams across Argentina will pay tribute to Lionel Messi with a mid-game minute of applause during their next match following his decision to retire from international duty.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:30:41 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Soccer teams across Argentina will pay tribute to Lionel Messi with a mid-game minute of applause during their next match following his decision to retire from international duty. Referees will pause play at the 10-minute mark of every match in the upcoming round of the Clausura tournament, as well as in other men's and women's leagues in Argentina, in appreciation of Messi’s career with the national team, the Argentine Football Association said late Wednesday. The 39-year-old Messi, who wore the No. 10 jersey for Argentina, announced on Monday he will no longer play for the national team after 21 years of service. He led Argentina to the World Cup title in 2022 as well as two other World Cup finals, and made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals — both national records. Messi, who is idolized in Argentina, has never played professionally in his home country. He moved to Barcelona at the age of 13 to began a once-in-a-generation career and is regarded by many as the greatest player of all time. Messi is continuing to play at club level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[5 USA Regulars Who Secured Summer Transfers To European Clubs]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/5-usa-regulars-who-secured-summer-transfers-european-clubs</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/5-usa-regulars-who-secured-summer-transfers-european-clubs</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Five U.S. national team regulars found new clubs during Europe's just-closed summer transfer window.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:00:50 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[The summer transfer window slammed shut across Europe on Tuesday evening, and for fans of the U.S. men’s national team, it was a frustrating Deadline Day as the biggest potential move of any American player post-2026 FIFA World Cup fell apart at the 11th hour. Folarin Balogun was thought to be headed to English Premier League mainstay Everton from Monaco in a deal worth more than $50 million. With three goals in four games during soccer’s quadrennial showpiece, the 25-year-old New York-born, London-bred Balogun was the breakout star for the Americans at this summer’s World Cup. That showing drew interest from multiple suitors, but the Toffees — the club where USA legends Tim Howard, Landon Donovan and Brian McBride all once played — appeared to have won the race for his signature. But following some last minute hiccups, Balogun reportedly walked away from the deal late Tuesday despite traveling to Merseyside to complete the deal. Although Balogun’s high-profile move didn’t happen, other Americans found new clubs this window. Here’s how the transfers of five of his Stars and Stripes teammates could impact their club careers and the national team in the months ahead. Zavier Gozo: Real Salt Lake To Crystal Palace As I reported in May, USA coach Mauricio Pochettino thought enough of Gozo’s performances with RSL to include the uncapped 19-year-old on the Americans’ 55-player "provisional" World Cup roster, the preliminary list from which the final 26 came. So did Palace after the Utah native bagged 10 goals in 42 MLS games, including six in 16 appearances in 2026. Gozo made his Premier League debut for the London club in last week’s loss to mighty Manchester City. Gio Reyna: Borussia Mönchengladbach To Strasbourg After spending the first seven years of his career in Germany, the 23-year-old traded the Bundesliga for France’s Ligue 1. Reyna, who scored a brilliant goal to cap the Americans’ World Cup-opening 4-1 rout of Paraguay, joined Les Bleus et Blanc for $3.5 million in early August on a five-year contract. The onetime teenage prodigy managed only one goal in 20 appearances — 16 of them off the bench for ‘Gladbach in 2025-26. He should play more this season;  Strasbourg’s new No. 10 started and logged 76 minutes in central midfield during the club’s most recent outing, a 2-1 win over Lens last Saturday. Sebastian Berhalter: Vancouver Whitecaps To Middlesbrough The scrappy central midfielder and set-piece specialist could’ve traded Western Canada for England’s second tier before the World Cup, opting instead to stay in Vancouver and cement the roster spot he won with aplomb last year. It worked: Berhalter appeared in all five of the USA’s contests and scored in the 3-2 group stage loss to vs. Türkiye. Now he’ll try to help ‘Boro gain promotion back to the Premier League after heartbreak in last season’s promotion playoff final. Berhalter walked straight into coach Kim Hellberg’s starting lineup upon arrival in late July, notching the game-winning assist against Wrexham in his first appearance the following week. The 25-year-old, who would’ve been a free agent this winter, has started each of the club’s five games across all competitions so far. Max Arfsten: Columbus Crew To Middlesbrough Arfsten became the third American at ‘Boro, joining Berhalter and Aidan Morris — one of the final cuts to Pochettino’s roster — when he signed Aug. 4 for a fee of up to $7.5 including incentives, according to the Athletic’s Tom Bogert. The attack-minded left back made one brief cameo as Antonee "Jedi"Robinson deputy at the World Cup. He could play a larger role under Poch this cycle given the 29-year-old Jedi’s history of knee problems. Arfsten, 25, is already gaining crucial experience in the rough and tumble Championship, having appeared in all three league games last month ahead of Wednesday’s trip to Burnley. Jack McGlynn: Houston Dynamo To Stoke City Although an untimely injury cost the sweet-footed lefty any real chance of competing for a place on the Americans' World Cup squad, McGlynn, 23, will be just entering his prime in 2030. Pochettino likes the Queens, New York product’s profile, having capped him 12 times in 2025 and getting two goals in return. Stoke needs the help, with the longtime Premier League team languishing in 21st place in the 24-strong Championship four games into the 2026-27 campaign. They got some by landing McGlynn on Deadline Day.]]>
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					<![CDATA[USA's Folarin Balogun Reportedly Decides Against Move To Everton]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usas-folarin-balogun-reportedly-decides-against-move-everton</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/usas-folarin-balogun-reportedly-decides-against-move-everton</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Folarin Balogun's $50 million-plus move to Everton is in danger of collapsing in the final hours of European soccer’s summer transfer window.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:50:42 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Folarin Balogun’s return to the English Premier League will have to wait until 2027. According to multiple reports in Europe, the U.S. men’s World Cup striker’s widely expected $50 million-plus move from French Ligue 1 team Monaco to Prem mainstay Everton has collapsed in the final hours of European soccer’s summer transfer window. Everton reportedly submitted a deal sheet to the Premier League to give the club a two-hour transfer deadline extension to finalize a move for the United States men’s national team forward, but Balogun ultimately decided against the move after the deal was renegotiated. The two clubs had agreed on the fee and Balogun to what was surely a significant salary bump. Balogun had been given permission by Monaco to travel to the blue side of Liverpool on Tuesday to complete his "medical" — the routine but nonetheless required physical examination that is almost always a formality for some of the world’s best conditioned athletes. The 25-year-old New York-born, London-raised 25-year-old sat out much of Monaco’s preseason with what was thought to be a minor injury he first sustained at the World Cup. Balogun scored three goals in four games — including the winner in a knockout stage victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina before the Americans were eliminated by Belgium in the round of 16. He also found himself at the center of an international controversy after President Trump asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino for global soccer's governing body to review the red card that would’ve kept him out of the co-hosts round of 16 match against Belgium. FIFA suspended the suspension, allowing Balogun to play, though the U.S. lost 4-1. Another report, from the highly respected French daily sports newspaper L’Equipe, said that the holdup was caused by Everton needing to first finalize the sale of Senegalese forward Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City. Ndiaye's transfer was finalized, but Balogun's wasn't. Staying at Monaco until the January transfer window opens wouldn’t be the worst thing for Balogun or the U.S. national team if that’s how this shakes out, though the club will miss out on the UEFA Champions League this season after finishing seventh in France’s top flight last term. Balogun was a hot commodity this summer after his breakout performance for the Stars and Stripes, having also drawn interest from Champions League participants Aston Villa and Spanish champions Barcelona, per reports. Everton, which was suddenly left shorthanded up top after sending veteran forward Beto to Italian side Fiorentina on Tuesday, could also circle back on Balogun in the new year. The American would be an ideal supplement to 6-foot-5 target man Thierno Barry under Toffees manager David Moyes. The Gunners product shouldn’t need much time to adapt to life on the blue side of Liverpool, or to the physicality of the Prem, as Balogun made 10 first team appearances for Arsenal over parts of two seasons. In his three years in Monaco, Balogun has scored 31 goals, including 29 in 85 Ligue 1 and UEFA Champions League matches. If healthy, Balogun is expected to be included on USA coach Mauricio Pochettino's squad for home exhibition games later this month against Chile and Peru and in early October vs. regional foes Canada and Mexico.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Will There Ever Be Another Lionel Messi? The Short Answer Is: Yes]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/will-ever-another-lionel-messi-short-answer-is-yes</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/will-ever-another-lionel-messi-short-answer-is-yes</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[If history has taught us anything, it's that there will be another Lionel Messi sooner or later.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2026 17:20:02 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[As an Argentine international, this may be the end for Lionel Messi — and I say "may be" because he has retired in the past, but this seems to be much more of a true retirement from Argentina. There are so many different directions and so many different questions that come up when it comes to what Messi did specifically for Argentina. At the beginning of his career, yes, he was there, but it was always in the context of Diego Maradona — comparing and contrasting, and all of that. Now, in the eyes of many and certainly in younger generations, he has gone to be the GOAT — not just the GOAT of Argentina, but the GOAT in general, and I think it's completely fair to argue that. Which brings up question after question of: Will we ever see someone like this again? And the answer to that, very simply, is: Yes, we will. Messi, in 207 games, scored 125 goals, including 21 goals in the World Cup, which is second all-time to Kylian Mbappé. So, in that sense, we already have seen someone prolific, in terms of scoring goals. But the impact and legendary status because of what he did, especially looking like a guy you would see just walking down the street and yet being this larger than life type of figure, I don’t know when we’ll see someone exactly like him, in the way that he plays and what he has done, If time is the same as any test, yes, someone will come and do things that we didn’t dream were possible in the way that Messi did, or in a different way.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lamine Yamal, Raphinha Combine For 4 Goals As Barcelona Stays Perfect In LaLiga]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lamine-yamal-raphinha-combine-4-goals-barcelona-stay-perfect-laliga</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lamine-yamal-raphinha-combine-4-goals-barcelona-stay-perfect-laliga</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both scored a brace and English winger Anthony Gordon grabbed two assists as Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano 5-2 to record its 21st consecutive home victory.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 18:52:46 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Lamine Yamal and Raphinha both scored a brace and English winger Anthony Gordon grabbed two assists as Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano 5-2 to record its 21st consecutive home victory. Rayo was looking for its first win of the season and it took an unexpected lead in the 12th minute when Sergio Camello hammered home a cutback from Alvaro Garcia on the left. Barcelona, however, bounced back almost immediately and it was 2-1 up before the first period was even halfway over. Raphinha equalized with a well-taken goal in the 18th and Lamine Yamal put them ahead 90 seconds later with a characteristic move, cutting in from the right and unleashing a powerful left-foot shot into the roof of the net. Hansi Flick's men got a third after halftime when Florian Lejeune turned Gordon’s cutback into his own net. Although the excellent Camello cut the deficit with a solid header, Raphinha soon made it 4-2 and Yamal rounded off the scoring with a low shot from just outside the box a minute from time. The win moved Barcelona above Real Madrid at the top of the league on goal difference. Rayo sat third from bottom. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lionel Messi Has Said Goodbye To Argentina Before; This Time It's For Good]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-has-said-goodbye-argentina-before-time-its-good</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-has-said-goodbye-argentina-before-time-its-good</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[By coming back from international retirement not once but twice, Lionel Messi — who walked away from Argentina's team for good on Monday — gave soccer fans around the world an enormous gift.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 17:47:43 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[As the tears streamed down Lionel Messi’s cheeks in the moments after Spain beat Messi’s Argentina in extra time of last month's FIFA World Cup final, the greatest player in soccer history must have known in his heart that he’d never pull the famous sky-blue-and-white-striped Albiceleste jersey on again. Messi made it official on Monday, announcing his retirement from the national team led to three World Cup and five Copa América finals — winning the last two editions of the latter and the world title in 2022. In an Instagram post, the 39-year-old said that he made the decision to walk away from his national team after 207 appearances and 125 goals two days after that brutal loss to La Roja in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Messi, who will continue to play at club level with MLS champions Inter Miami, added that the death of his father, Jorge, earlier this month in the family’s hometown of Rosario only cemented his decision. There will be no going back this time. It’s fitting that the 80,000-seat stadium just west of New York City was the sight of Messi’s final act on the global stage. It was in that building that Messi first walked away from the Albiceleste almost exactly a decade earlier. In the bowels of the venue two hours after Chile beat Argentina on penalties to claim the 2016 Copa América Centenario, Messi — who’d missed his shootout attempt en route to defeat — shocked the sporting world when he told reporters that he was done representing his country in the wake of an ongoing feud between the players and the Argentine Football Association. The then-Barcelona star was smack in his prime, having just turned 29. He’d already won the UEFA Champions League four times, won five Ballon d’Or awards and was already considered the GOAT despite the lack of trophies in international play. Media members in attendance (I was one of them) instantly went from covering the biggest game in global soccer that day to the biggest news story in every corner of the planet. Eventually, cooler heads prevailed. Messi never even missed a game. In his post on Monday, Messi addressed Argentina’s fans. "I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football," he wrote. "Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much." It’s soccer fans who should be thanking him. By choosing to stick around, think about how much joy Messi has given not just his compatriots but all soccer lovers over the last decade. After another World Cup heartbreak in 2018, when Argentina was eliminated by eventual champs France, Messi led the Albiceleste on an unprecedented run of success. They beat blood rival Brazil in the Maracana to claim their South American title — his first at senior level for Argentina — in 2021. Messi crowning achievement arrived at long last the following year, when he scored eight goals — including two in the World Cup final win over Les Bleus — to help Argentina triumph for the first time since Diego Maradona’s team did it in 1986. That tournament was billed as Messi’s final chance to collect the only trophy he hadn’t won. For good reason: Ahead of the competition, Messi said that Qatar 2022 would be his last World Cup. Yet before even leaving an empty Lusail Stadium outside Doha in the wee hours of Dec. 19, Messi gave both his countrymen and neutral fans alike another gift, saying he’d continue as long as coach Lionel Scaloni would have him. In 2024, Argentina then made it three titles in a row by winning another Copa, joining Spain’s legendary 2008-12 squad as the only national teams to win consecutive continental championships on either side of a World Cup victory. Still, it was fair to wonder then if Messi would last until 2026. Or how effective he would be if he did. Age and injuries catch up to every player eventually. Perhaps not to jinx himself, Messi wouldn’t confirm his participation in the Canada/Mexico/USA-hosted before Scaloni named him to Argentina’s 26-man roster weeks before the tourney kicked off. Any doubts about Messi's match-winning ability evaporated when the World Cup began. Messi scored all three goals — his first career World Cup hat trick — in Argentina’s group stage-opening 3-0 drubbing of Algeria. He again finished with eight, becoming the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer along the way. His two late assists in a 2-1 comeback win over England were otherworldly, and he had perhaps Argentina’s best chance to equalize in extra time against Spain, only for Pau Cubarsí to save what appeared to be a goal-bound shot with his face. In a funny way, how Messi performed this summer in defeat might be even more impressive than his showing four years ago, when he was surrounded by a stronger and younger supporting cast. Messi gave us all a gift by un-retiring not once but twice. It’s one reason why, until Monday, there was some hope that Messi might continue donning Argentina’s colors for another four years. In retrospect, that was always wishful thinking. It’s always sad when a legend hangs up their boots, let alone the incomparable Messi. The end of an era is here. We were lucky to witness for a little longer than it might have lasted. "I've given everything I had; I have nothing left to give; he wrote. "I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you — alongside my teammates — moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all." It was a privilege, Leo. The pleasure was ours.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Tears, Triumph And A Heroic Last Dance: Lionel Messi Gave Argentina Everything He Had]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/tears-triumph-heroic-last-dance-lionel-messi-gave-argentina-everything-he-had</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/tears-triumph-heroic-last-dance-lionel-messi-gave-argentina-everything-he-had</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Lionel Messi and Argentina are over, but the memories of what was earned will forever remain.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:32:12 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[There is no greater feeling in life than experiencing the purest example of beauty. It is, as Oscar Wilde once said, the one thing time cannot harm. It’s an everlasting rainbow that never stops showing you its colors, and even when the actual act of witnessing something so gorgeous, so exquisite disappears — you still have the memory of it. Lionel Messi, wearing the Argentina shirt, driving towards goal with the exuberant explosion of a volcano, unbothered, unconcerned with anything or anyone who even attempts to stop him, is that pure example of beauty. Or how about his 125 goals for La Albiceleste? Each one is a seashell we pick up and carry forever. All of them came in different varieties and angles — 111 with his best friend, his trusted left foot — and they delivered with danger and aggression, poetry and music but also with a certainty that only Messi possessed and defenders and goalkeepers feared. From his majestic drive against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 2014 World Cup to my favorite, the piece of art against Nigeria in the 2018 edition. Nigerians will actually be glad to see the last of him, as they were one of his many, multiple, frequent victims. Messi and Argentina are over, but the memories of what was earned will forever remain. The achievements have been as remarkable as the highlights. Individual brilliance that made me think this tiny man surely can’t be a real human. His ultimate prize? The World Cup in Qatar. It was achieved with guts. When he finally won the World Cup in 2022, it was a journey of redemption, but his calmness, as remembered by his teammates, never wavered. Even after the opening loss to Saudi Arabia. Ángel Di María recalls thinking that his tranquility was so impactful, it made everyone else secure that this would be the tournament where they would become champions. Messi and Argentina are as symbiotic as bees carrying pollen from flowers in exchange for their nectar. It was a dance that wasn’t always pretty — as we witnessed in this summer’s final — but it was theirs. It was uniquely theirs. The relationship was also very dependent on him for a long time, but thanks to Lionel Scaloni’s arrival, Argentina and Messi became more of a partnership, where Leo would eventually take them to promised lands. But the team was now also working alongside his genius, not just falling to it under his magical spell. It wasn’t always rosy, however. When he made his debut for the senior national team in 2005 at 18 years old, for example, Messi’s story with Argentina actually started as a nightmare as he was sent off in less than two minutes in a friendly against Hungary. Messi drove towards goal with his quintessential steam-train engine tenacity, and the Hungarian defense was unable to stop him, so the only thing he could do was hold his shirt. Messi, to try and escape, hit him in the face by accident, and it would end up being one of the most frustrating red cards, especially because it was a young Messi simply demonstrating what he would do for the next two decades. After being sent off, Messi returned to the dressing room and was distraught, inconsolable at realizing the tragic consequences of his actions. But what that teenage Messi didn’t realize was that the Hungarian defender actually did him a favor, as that red card actually birthed a dragon — someone who realized at that moment his dribbling towards goal, his aggressive yet graceful dynamite runs would become iconic, and in that moment, he never lifted his arms again. He would just allow his granite-style composure to dismantle anything else in sight. We also remember the struggles and the heartbreak after losing the Copa América finals to Chile, forcing him to announce an initial retirement in 2016. The country begged him not to. His people pleaded for his return, and after time, Messi did come back. The Copa América title in 2021 would catapult a sense of dominance for Argentina and, equally, Messi continued to understand not just who he was on the pitch, but who he was off it. And I think that’s what made him a World Cup champion in Qatar. You see, the alíen-like talents, the ability to destroy mortals on the pitch, that has always been there. But Messi, for a long time, needed to steal a page from Diego Maradona. He needed to not just win for Argentina; he needed to show that he was willing to die for it. And Messi, ever the introvert, found this harder than most, but over time, thanks to the support of his family and his own sense of maturity and ideals of what it takes to be a champion, Messi became the greatest ever because he understood the fear of losing was a necessity to win. It’s also crucial to understand that Messi left Argentina at 13 years old and the connection his country built with him was not as pure as Maradona’s. In many ways, Messi had to earn his Argentinian-ness, despite never losing his accent or his love for Rosario and his family when he was growing up in Barcelona. I relate to this so much, as someone who left Peru at a young age, you feel weirdly in need of having to justify your identity and for Messi, a public figure, a hero and a villain in times of peril, this was even harder. There is no discussion for me. There is no contest. Lionel Messi does things that we have never seen from any other player before, and for Argentina, he became immortal. He could have ended it all after 2022, but I think this is the other characteristic of Messi that we often take for granted. Messi owed it to his teammates, to his country — for one last dance in 2026. He wanted to say thank you. I think it’s important to remember that he will turn 40 years old next year, and when Lionel Messi tells you that he has given everything to Argentina — there is nothing to doubt. There is no cloud. It’s only a truth we can fully and wholeheartedly accept. I think the tragic death of his father also became a factor. This is the man who gave Leo everything for him to be a professional. The path of Messi’s career is next to the footprints of his father, and his passing deeply affected him. As someone who lost his father at a young age, and who also did everything for me to have a future, I can relate all too much, especially so, as let’s not forget that Messi’s immigrant story to Barcelona was thanks to the proverbial embrace, love, and direction from his father. For him not to be present at this summer’s World Cup was a thorn too deep that ailed Messi’s heart. Playing for Argentina is just not the same without him around. But this is an ode, not about loss, but gain, and so I want to make sure we all finish reading my humble tribute as a story of beauty, one that we all experienced for more than two decades. This is a love story of Lionel Messi, Argentina, and what he gave to the world, and if it has to come to an end, then so be it. Let’s all remember that the true meaning of this legacy is not that it happened, but that we were all here to witness it. And most notably, we will remember it forever. Gracias, Leo. Gracias.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Looking Back At Lionel Messi's Historic World Cup Career]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-argentina-world-cup-legacy</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-argentina-world-cup-legacy</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[With Lionel Messi announcing his international retirement, let's look back at his legendary World Cup career with Argentina.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 14:44:05 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[The greatest of all time. Thank you, Messi. On Monday morning, Lionel Messi announced that he has retired from international play, culminating a 22-year career with Argentina that included a World Cup title. Across six World Cup appearances, Messi has led Argentina to the quarterfinals or better five times and reached the final three times. His résumé includes six World Cup appearances, 34 matches, 21 goals, 12 assists and countless records, many of which he extended during his historic tournament this summer. His legacy on the tournament’s biggest stage is unlike anything the sport has ever seen. With Messi officially calling time on his legendary international career, let’s look back at his remarkable World Cup journey, beginning with his all-time tournament records before revisiting each of his six appearances on soccer's biggest stage. To the "little boy from Rosario, Argentina," it has been an absolute pleasure. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.]]>
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					<![CDATA[All 21 Of Lionel Messi's FIFA World Cup Goals, Ranked]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/messi-2026-world-cup-goals-ranked</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/messi-2026-world-cup-goals-ranked</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[The GOAT just keeps reminding us he's the GOAT. Here are all of Lionel Messi's goals at the World Cup, best to the very best.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:40:48 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Editor's note: This story was originally published July 20, 2026. Lionel Messi continues to remind the football world that he's the greatest player of all time, with one GOAT move after another. He's the all-time leading FIFA World Cup goalscorer — and will only extend his mark with every goal. And that he is doing it 20 years after first setting foot at the World Cup is even more remarkable. There is no doubt that the Argentinian captain, who is playing in a record sixth World Cup alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, will continue to keep opponents up at night. Messi now stands alone in FIFA World Cup history with 21 tournament goals and 123 overall as Argentina's top scorer. But it can’t just end there, so allow me to rank all 21 goals across all World Cups that he has scored. Because every beautiful gem deserves its own appraisal: 21. Goal vs. Saudi Arabia | Nov. 22, 2022 Messi stepped up for the penalty after a foul on Leandro Paredes. But the shock of the tournament arrived when Herve Renard’s Saudi Arabia came out victorious. It would only be the spark that would eventually kickstart a historic World Cup-winning campaign. 20. First Goal vs. France | Dec. 18, 2022 For me, the 2022 World Cup final was the greatest I have ever witnessed, and it started with another spot-kick as Messi made it 1-0. Little did we know that this would only be the first chapter of an incredible footballing novel. 19. Goal vs. Netherlands | Dec. 9, 2022 Messi already had an assist for the opening goal, and he made it 2-0 before the Netherlands came back to make it very entertaining with another penalty. La Pulga placed it beautifully past Andries Noppert as the Argentina faithful celebrated from behind the goal. 18. Goal vs. Croatia | Dec. 13, 2022 Another clutch penalty after Julián Álvarez was taken down. Messi’s spot-kick was smashed into the top right corner as Dominik Livaković couldn’t do anything about it. 17. Second Goal vs. France | Dec. 18, 2022 A dramatic goal in stoppage time when Argentina took a 3-2 lead as Hugo Lloris failed to push away a shot from Lautaro Martinez, so Messi pounced. As we all remember, the night would conclude with a penalty shootout and a glorious third World Cup title, 36 years after Diego Maradona lifted the trophy in México. 16. Second Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026 A prototypical Messi instinct is to react before anyone else. And that’s what happened here after Alexis Mac Allister’s effort was pushed away by Zidane, but not far enough. Messi pounced and earned his second goal of the night. 15. Goal vs. Jordan | June 28, 2026 Argentina, already through and having won the group, started without Messi, who did not need to play a whole 90 minutes. As if he ever needs a full match to create some magic. Leo entered the action in the 60th minute, and 20 minutes later, he scored his second free kick at a World Cup and his 19th career goal at the tournament. It was a great finish, though I think the keeper and his wall could have done better. From another angle, you can also see Argentina’s stopper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez conducting the Argentinian wall and telling them where to stand in order for Messi to find his path towards goal. It’s brilliant. As a result, Messi also became the first men’s player to score in seven straight World Cup matches. 14. Third Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026 There is probably more of a poetic, symbolic meaning to this goal as it officially marked his first ever hat trick at the World Cup. But it was also a delightful finish that sealed the three points and placed Messi in the history books. Receiving a ball from Nico Gonzalez inside the box, the soon-to-be 39-year-old star made a quick assessment and shot at Zidane with an effort that went bottom-left. Once again, the goal was perfectly placed with tremendous accuracy and the stadium knew the outcome. We all did. Messi, once again, gave us an evening to never forget. 13. Goal vs. Australia | Dec. 3, 2022 It took a dramatic save from Emiliano Martínez at the end of this one for Argentina to secure the victory, but it all started with Messi’s opener during what was his 1,000th career match. The goal started from a free-kick cross by Leo that ended up with him entering the box and, with a slight touch from Nicolas Otamendi, the Argentinian icon placed a low shot past Matt Ryan. 12. First Goal vs. Algeria | June 16, 2026 Messi, as he is turning, receives the ball from his Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul, and with his quintessential, almost omnipotent left foot, takes an effort just outside the box, smashing a powerful shot past Algeria’s Luka Zidane. Zinedine’s son probably saw it coming, but like many other mortals, it just can’t be stopped. It was the door that opened the floodgates. Once again, as is always the case, it started and ended with Messi as he provided the ball out to the left to Julian Alvarez. The man from Atlético de Madrid saw his shot saved, Messi claimed it, then shot it. THAT one gets blocked, but because Leo never quits, the Argentinian captain headed toward the center of the box and smashed it in. Pure determination. 11. Record-Breaking Goal vs. Austria | June 22, 2026 Of course, this is the goal that's sealed in time, making him the all-time scorer in men's World Cup history. After missing a penalty in the 14th minute, Messi made amends by scoring a delicious finish, thanks also to a wonderful dummy by Thiago Almada. Messi took it the first time, and it was clear he was never going to miss. On the 40th anniversary of Diego Maradona’s "Hand of God" against England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal, Messi created another eternal memory for Argentina. 10. Goal vs. Serbia and Montenegro | June 16, 2006 Messi’s first ever goal at the World Cup. Days before his 19th birthday, Messi came on from the bench with just over 15 minutes left. Carlos Tevez found the then-Barcelona teenager, who made a run inside the box and slotted it past the goalkeeper. It may not be his greatest goal from an aesthetic perspective, but it’s one of the most meaningful. 9. Goal vs. Mexico | Nov. 26, 2022 Anxiety was rising with Argentina fans as La Albiceleste was currently at 0-0 against Mexico deep in the second half. But then came Leo as Di María gave him the ball just outside the box. The Argentina captain sent a powerful, low effort past Memo Ochoa for the opener and the South Americans erupted. 8. Goal vs. Cape Verde | July 3rd, 2026 Lisandro Martínez deserves a lot of credit for this goal as it was his deep, beautiful assist that fed Messi inside Cabo Verde’s box. The Argentinian captain brought it down beautifully with his left foot and in the same breath, placed it past Vozinha – perhaps the only other player at the tournament who has captured so much attention at this tournament. This goal made it eight consecutive World Cup matches, extending his own record for the longest streak ever. 7. Goal vs. Egypt | Round of 16 | July 7, 2026 The equalizing goal that shook Atlanta’s stadium and sent it into ecstasy. Leo himself pings the ball in the box but it scrambles away until Gonzalo Montiel finds it and just about returns it to Messi, who proceeds to smash it past Egypt’s stopper Mostafa Shobeir. It hits the crossbar and eventually ricochets into the net. A magnificent finish at such a crucial moment. 6. First Goal vs. Nigeria | June 25, 2014 Messi ended the group stage in perfection, scoring a brace against Nigeria. The first came in the second minute of action as Angel Di María hit the post and, like a bull charging at will, Leo entered the box and smashed it in. An absolute rocket. 5. Second Goal vs. Austria | June 22, 2026 Once again, as is always the case, it started and ended with Messi as he provided the ball out to the left to Julian Alvarez. The man from Atlético de Madrid saw his shot saved, Messi claimed it, then shot it. THAT one gets blocked, but because Leo never quits, the Argentinian captain headed toward the center of the box and smashed it in. Pure determination. And also, pay attention to his touch just as he gets the ball inside the box. It is the definition of genius and elegance. But you have to slow down the highlight in order to truly appreciate it. 4. Second Goal vs. Nigeria | June 25, 2014 The second was Messi’s first and only free-kick goal at the World Cup. Nigeria came back with a goal but, in true fashion, La Pulga reclaimed his team the lead with a beautiful set piece. Nigeria goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama could only watch and follow it in as he knew — as we all did — he was already beaten. 3. Goal vs. Iran | June 21, 2014 Iran held on as much as it could. But when you face Messi, that’s just never enough. In the 90th minute, Leo picked up the ball on the edge of the box and completely smashed a beautiful left-footed attempt heading towards the top left of goal. A piece of magic and one of my favorite goals. 2. Goal vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina | June 15, 2014 Messi didn’t score in the 2010 World Cup so he had to make amends four years later in Brazil. At 27, he was ready to make a statement and this is one of my favorite goals because you are now seeing prime Leo—running at full speed—unable to be stopped. Messi drives towards goal, gives it to Gonzalo Higuain, gets it right back and, with a lethal left-foot finish that eventually becomes a trademark on the bottom left, scores. The best part is that he forced two Bosnian defenders to crash into each other in the process, as they were unable to stop the Argentinian. They became two early victims of Messi’s wrath. 1. Goal vs. Nigeria | June 26, 2018 After causing havoc against the Super Eagles back in 2014, the African side was probably done with this guy by the time Russia 2018 arrived. But Messi was not and four years later, Leo scored what is in my opinion, his greatest World Cup goal. He received a great pass from Ever Banega, and as he was tracked down by a defender, Leo took a touch as smooth as butter with his left knee, then with his left foot, brought it down to his weaker right foot and slammed it past the goalkeeper. Hang it in the Louvre? It’s a goal so good that it deserves to have its own exhibition.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Argentina's Post-Messi Era Is Now: Who Inherits The Throne In The Next World Cup?]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/argentina-lionel-messi-world-cup-2030-nico-paz-franco-mastantuono</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/argentina-lionel-messi-world-cup-2030-nico-paz-franco-mastantuono</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Tough conversations in Buenos Aire start now. Argentina must look at a future without Lionel Messi.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 12:07:22 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Editor's note: This story was originally published July 20, 2026. The ending was ugly in every language. Argentina lost the World Cup final 1-0 to Spain, and the scoreline flattered it. The defending champion went 120 minutes without a single shot on goal. It brought fight instead of football, and when the fight was all that remained, it spilled over: Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time, Leandro Paredes received a red card after the whistle for grabbing Eric García by the throat, Nahuel Molina swung at Rodri, and the entire squad turned its back while Spain lifted the trophy. The only man who left the final with his dignity intact was Lionel Messi, shaking every Spanish hand with tears on his face. Which brings us to the conversation nobody in Buenos Aires wants to have. Messi's next birthday is his 40th. He delivered eight goals and four assists at age 39, dragged this team to a final almost by himself, and it still wasn't enough. He is not eternal, no matter how hard he keeps pretending otherwise. It's time to imagine an Argentina without him, because that Argentina arrives whether anyone is ready or not. Start up front, where the succession is easiest. Julián Álvarez is the heir, full stop. His thunderbolt against Switzerland was the goal of Argentina's tournament not scored by a 39-year-old, and with Barcelona currently pressing Atlético Madrid on a bid with a July 31 deadline, his club platform is about to get even bigger. He'll be 30 in 2030, smack in his prime, and Lautaro Martínez's clutch finishing can carry the bridge years alongside him. The harder question is who creates for Argentina. This World Cup exposed a team starved of invention whenever Messi rested, and the answer was sitting on the bench in a Como kit. Nico Paz (a player who we should keep tabs on for 2030) got one start, against Jordan, and looked like the only Argentine besides the captain who sees passes before they exist. That elegant left foot needs 90 minutes a game starting in September, not cameos. Lionel Scaloni protected the old guard this cycle. The next one has to be built around the kid born on the Spanish island of Tenerife to former Argentina international Pablo Paz. Then there's the player who wasn't even there. Franco Mastantuono, Real Madrid's teenager, was Scaloni's most controversial omission, reportedly excluded because he occupies the same spaces Messi does. Well, those spaces are about to be vacant. He'll be 22 when the 2030 World Cup kicks off, with four full seasons at the Bernabéu (or elsewhere) behind him and everything to prove to a country that told him he wasn't needed just yet. Those players tend to arrive with a chip on their shoulder. Good. Fringe players like Facundo Buonanotte, who comes from Rosario's talent pipeline, could start featuring with more consistent club performances. Argentina's problem in this final wasn't heart. It was ideation. They lacked pure technical ability across the board. The backline needs the same honesty. Marcos Senesi only made this tournament as an injury replacement for Leonardo Balerdi, which is criminal for a defender who plays out of pressure as calmly as he does and just had a big money move to Tottenham. Nicolás Otamendi and Cristian Romero's partnership has one more cycle at most, if that. It's time to feature Senesi now. Same for Valentín Barco, whose highlight during the World Cup was getting slapped in the back of the head by Jude Bellingham; he made the squad but barely sniffed the field. Jokes aside, he's exactly the kind of progressive, young, ball-playing fullback this team lacked when Spain squeezed them into oblivion. Here's the uncomfortable truth Sunday created: Argentina didn't just lose a final. It looked old, and then its players acted small. The scenes after the whistle were the tantrum of a team that knows its era is ending and has no plan for what comes next. The talent for the plan exists. Álvarez, Paz, Mastantuono, Senesi, Barco and even Claudio Echeverri (part of the Manchester City system and now on loan to Girona). What's missing is the courage to start the transition before Messi makes it mandatory. The king is still on his throne. But somebody should really start building the next one.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lionel Messi Retires From Argentina: A Legend Steps Away From International Stage]]>
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				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/legend-steps-away-from-international-stage-lionel-messi-retires-from-argentina</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/legend-steps-away-from-international-stage-lionel-messi-retires-from-argentina</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Lionel Messi has played his last match for Argentina.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 11:41:00 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Lionel Messi has played his last match for Argentina. The iconic soccer superstar has announced that he will be retiring from international play, ending his career with Argentina after 22 years and a World Cup title. However, Messi will continue to play for his MLS club, Inter Miami. "After all this time since the final, and after thinking about it a lot, I want to tell everyone that I’m retiring from the national team," Messi said in a statement translated to English. "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep inside, but I understand that this is the right moment." Messi's decision comes just more than a month after Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Messi said that he wrote his initial retirement statement two days after the loss on July 21, but waited to announce it following the recent death of his father, Jorge. "Today, after what happened with my dad, I’m even more convinced of this decision than before," Messi said. Messi departs the international game as arguably the most accomplished player ever. The 39-year-old's 125 career international goals are the second-most ever scored by a men's player. His 21 goals in the World Cup are also the second-most ever scored in the history of the tournament. On top of that, Messi became just the second player to ever appear in three men's FIFA World Cup finals in July. While he lost in his first and third World Cup finals, Messi led Argentina to an epic victory over France in the 2022 men's FIFA World Cup final. He scored twice in that game, securing the Golden Ball for the tournament. That was Messi's second World Cup Golden Ball, becoming the first player to win the Golden Ball in the men's World Cup twice. Messi also led Argentina to two Copa América wins in his international career. "I swear I always gave everything, not only in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too," Messi said. "I always fought and gave everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football. "There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot. I love, I loved, and I will always love being part of the national team. I gave everything I had, and I don’t have anything more to give. "Also, there are great young players coming through who deserve to be here. "Thank you for all the love during these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside. Now I’ll be one of you, always supporting from the outside, in the good times and even more in the bad ones."]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lionel Messi Scores 4 Goals, Leads Inter Miami To Historic 7-1 Win Over Montréal]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-scores-4-goals-leads-inter-miami-historic-7-1-win-over-montreal</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-scores-4-goals-leads-inter-miami-historic-7-1-win-over-montreal</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Lionel Messi scored four goals and assisted one to lead Inter Miami to a historic 7-1 win over CF Montréal on Saturday at Nu Stadium.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Sat, 29 Aug 2026 22:37:07 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Lionel Messi scored four goals and assisted one to lead Inter Miami to a historic 7-1 win over CF Montréal on Saturday at Nu Stadium. Messi scored his first goal, and Inter Miami's second of the night, in the 40th minute from a direct free kick that caught Montréal goalkeeper Thomas Gillier off guard at the near post. Messi scored again 12 minutes later after dribbling past three Montréal defenders. His 16th goal of the season tied him with FC Dallas's Petar Musa for the 2026 MLS season-high. Messi completed his hat-trick with a chipped shot in the 83rd minute, just three minutes after he assisted Luis Suárez for Inter Miami's fourth goal of the evening. Messi has scored 62 hat-tricks in his club career. Messi scored his fourth and final goal from another direct free kick. He is the ninth player in MLS history to score at least two direct free kicks in a single match. The 7-1 win was Inter Miami's largest margin of victory in club history, and the first time the club has scored seven goals in a single match. The MLS record for most goals by a team in a single match is eight (LA Galaxy, 1998).]]>
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					<![CDATA[PSG To Start Champions League Title Defense Against Barcelona, Man City]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/psg-start-champions-league-title-defense-against-barcelona-man-city</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/psg-start-champions-league-title-defense-against-barcelona-man-city</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Two-time defending champion Paris Saint-Germain will host Manchester City and travel to Barcelona in the Champions League main phase this season.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 15:39:54 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Two-time defending champion Paris Saint-Germain will host Manchester City and travel to Barcelona in the Champions League main phase this season, after the 36-team draw was made Thursday. PSG has won three straight visits to Barcelona — including a 2-1 win in the league phase last October — since imploding in the famous 6-1 loss in March 2017 that is known as the "Remontada" game. The French champion again plays Aston Villa, after a Super Cup win this month, and goes to Champions League newcomer Como, coached by Cesc Fabregas, in an eight-game slate that starts in two weeks' time. Real Madrid will host Inter Milan and make two trips to London, at Arsenal and against Shakhtar Donetsk. Ukraine’s champion is playing home games at Stamford Bridge, where Madrid's returning coach José Mourinho was beloved by Chelsea fans in a pair of title-winning spells there. Barcelona will host two English clubs — Man City and Europa League winner Villa — plus its former player Fabregas with Como. A long trip to Azerbaijan awaits to face debutant Sabah in Baku. Arsenal, the beaten finalist last year, will host Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Sabah, and travel to Bayern Munich. Bayern got a second English opponent, with a trip to Manchester United, plus two Norwegian opponents, hosting Bodø/Glimt and visiting Viking. Bayern also will go to Atletico Madrid whose Metropolitano Stadium will host the final next May. Liverpool got trips to Inter Milan and Fenerbahce in what looked one of the more favorable slates of eight games. Atletico will again come to Anfield where Liverpool won 3-2 last September. Atletico also will play both Norwegian teams and is one of four teams heading inside the Arctic Circle to play on Bodø/Glimt ’s artificial turf. Dortmund, Lille and newcomer LASK also will travel to the remote fishing town, and one team must make the trip in January. Sabah also will host Dortmund, Napoli and Slavia Prague. Fans also have two long trips from Azerbaijan to England to face Arsenal and Man United. Como has a second trip to Spain, to play Real Betis as well as Barcelona, and will welcome PSG and Man United to its picture-postcard lakeside stadium home. Four Debutants In Champions League Draw Four newcomers will debut in this Champions League edition: Como from Italy, coached by Cesc Fabregas; LASK of Austria; Viking from Norway; and Azerbaijani champion Sabah, which was founded only in 2017. Sabah coach Valdas Dambrauskas is already making headlines for his curious origin story in soccer. The money he won as a young contestant on TV quiz show "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" in his native Lithuania funded a trip to study coaching in England. Another first this season is an African coach taking his team into the main phase. Former Manchester City and Barcelona star Yaya Touré guided Slovakian champion Slovan Bratislava through its qualifying playoff Wednesday. Slovan will visit PSG and host Inter Milan. Champions League Draw Details UEFA’s draw software allocated eight opponents to each team — four home games, four away — with two opponents taken from each seeding pot. Seeding was decided by ranking a team's European results over the past five years. Teams could not be paired with an opponent from their own country. The first round of games is played Sept. 8-10 with the first six rounds played through December. The league phase resumes in January with the eighth and final round on Jan. 27. The top eight teams in the final standings go direct to the round of 16 in March. Teams placed ninth to 24th enter the knockout playoffs in February to decide the other eight teams in the round of 16. Teams placed 25th to 36th are eliminated. The 36 teams will share prize money of about 2.5 billion euros ($2.9 billion) Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé Scores Hat-Trick For Real Madrid In 2nd Match Of LaLiga Season]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/kylian-mbappe-scores-hat-trick-real-madrid-2nd-match-laliga-season</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/kylian-mbappe-scores-hat-trick-real-madrid-2nd-match-laliga-season</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé’s first goals of the season came via a hat-trick in Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad on Wednesday.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:11:27 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Kylian Mbappé’s first goals of the season came via a hat-trick in Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in the Spanish league on Wednesday. Mbappé scored once in the first half and twice in the second to lead Madrid to its win over Sociedad in Mourinho’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. Jude Bellingham had two assists, including on Vinícius’ first goal of the season in the second half. Madrid had opened its Spanish league campaign with a win at Espanyol. Sociedad had lost its league opener at Real Betis.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Chelsea Reportedly Mulling Move For Argentina Star Emi Martinez]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/chelsea-reportedly-mulling-move-argentina-star-emi-martinez</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/chelsea-reportedly-mulling-move-argentina-star-emi-martinez</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Emi Martinez, Argentina's star goalkeeper, is expected to move clubs before the September 1 transfer deadline.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:03:13 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[After six years at Aston Villa F.C., Argentina star Emi Martinez looks certain to move clubs before the European transfer window closes on Tuesday, September 1, and Chelsea F.C. has emerged as a likely destination. Martinez, Argentina's No. 1 goalkeeper and the hero of the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, has been offered to Chelsea by his representatives and the club is considering making an offer, according to a report from The Athletic on Wednesday. Martinez, 33, was made available after Aston Villa paid a $35 million transfer fee for Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who is expected to be the club's No. 1 choice in goal this season. He has also been linked to Manchester United, Juventus, Atlético de Madrid and Galatasaray. Aston Villa have valued Martinez at $13.4 million.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Xavi Hernandez Wants To 'Dominate' As New Netherlands Coach]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/xavi-hernandez-wants-dominate-new-netherlands-coach</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/xavi-hernandez-wants-dominate-new-netherlands-coach</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Xavi Hernandez the former Barcelona and Spain midfielder aims to rejuvenate the Netherlands team after its disappointing World Cup performance.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:52:21 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Dutch soccer coaches helped shape Xavi Hernandez. Now the former Barcelona and Spain midfielder wants to return the favor and rejuvenate a Netherlands team that disappointed with its defensive style at the World Cup. Louis van Gaal, who also coached the Netherlands, gave Xavi his debut for Barcelona. The midfielder grew up at the Catalan club where the playing philosophy of Dutch all-time great Johan Cruyff remains strong. At his presentation Tuesday, Xavi sounded like he was harking back to the "total football" ideals of Cruyff-led Dutch teams in the 1970s as he laid out his ambitions for the Netherlands playing style. "We want ... to dominate the game, to take the initiative with the ball," he said. "And at the same time, our goal is to show to everybody a team with passion, with desire and ambition." Netherlands Soccer Federation technical director Nigel de Jong said Xavi was on a shortlist of four candidates for the coveted job after former Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, and Arne Slot, who is still without a job after being fired by Liverpool in late May. They both declined. The other candidate was Michael Reiziger, who coaches the Netherlands' youth team. The new coach was unfazed by the big names ahead of him in the selection process. "Well, it’s not a bad position after Guardiola and after Slot. Third position. At least we are ... on the podium. I don’t care," he said. Xavi's first test comes Sept. 24 in Amsterdam when the Netherlands plays Germany, which also has a new coach — Jürgen Klopp. The former Liverpool manager replaced Julian Nagelsmann, who quit after another disappointing World Cup campaign. "I feel excited," Xavi said, "I feel motivated because, you know, we are playing against Germany, one of the best, teams in Europe and one of the best coaches in the last years, Jürgen Klopp. So yeah, it’s a big challenge from the beginning, but I think we will be ready." The 46-year-old Xavi had been out of work since leaving his job as Barcelona coach in May 2024. He replaces Ronald Koeman after his departure following the World Cup, where the Netherlands lost in a penalty shootout to Morocco in the Round of 32. While the Netherlands has struggled to win on soccer's biggest stages — Oranje has reached three World Cup finals and lost them all — Xavi has a history of victories. With Xavi playing at the heart of its midfield, Barcelona won 25 titles, including four Champions Leagues and eight Spanish leagues. He was also key to a four-year run in which Spain won the 2010 World Cup — beating the Netherlands in the final in Johannesburg — and European Championships in 2008 and 2012. Now he wants to extend his winning ways with the Netherlands. "We will try to change some things. Good habits, new energy," he said. "We will work with passion, with ambition and with desire in order that people in Holland, the 18 million people, be proud of our team." Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[World Cup Hero Ferran Torres Scores Twice In PSG Debut To Help Salvage Draw]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/world-cup-hero-ferran-torres-scores-twice-psg-debut-help-salvage-draw</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/world-cup-hero-ferran-torres-scores-twice-psg-debut-help-salvage-draw</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Ferran Torres has scored twice in his debut with Paris Saint-Germain to help the French champion draw with Rennes in its league opener.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 18:04:26 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Ferran Torres scored twice in his Paris Saint-Germain debut to help the French defending champion draw 2-2 at Rennes in its league opener on Sunday. Torres, who joined PSG from Barcelona after scoring Spain's World Cup winning goal last month, came off the bench to score in the 71st and 82nd minutes, helping his new club avoid a second consecutive loss to start the season. Both goals were assisted by Torres' Spain teammate Fabian Ruiz. Sebastian Szymanski and Esteban Lepaul had put host Rennes ahead with first-half goals. The comeback allowed PSG to avoid defeat after a penalty shootout loss to Lens in the French Super Cup final. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Erling Haaland Opens Premier League Season With New Buzz Cut]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/erling-haaland-opens-premier-league-season-new-buzz-cut</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/erling-haaland-opens-premier-league-season-new-buzz-cut</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Erling Haaland’s famed flowing locks are no more.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Sun, 23 Aug 2026 14:48:39 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Erling Haaland's famed flowing locks are no more. The Manchester City superstar has a new hairstyle for the new Premier League season: A buzz cut that went viral on social media on Sunday ahead of the team's opening match against Bournemouth. It didn't help him. The Norway striker missed a couple of great chances in City's 2-1 win at Etihad Stadium. Haaland has become one of the most easily distinguishable sport stars in recent years because of his long hair. In a video on Haaland's YouTube channel, Zlatan Ibrahimovic asked if the City striker had "lost a bet" when he was shown the new hairstyle. "You gonna be faster now, or what?" Ibrahimovic said. Former City manager Pep Guardiola reacted to the haircut by saying: "You're lucky to have hair. I would love to have it!" Haaland arrived at Etihad Stadium for the Bournemouth game wearing a cap, but that had been removed for the warmup — revealing the buzz cut. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Lionel Messi, Ian Fray Fined For Slapping Philadelphia Union Players]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-ian-fray-fined-slapping-philadelphia-union-players</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/lionel-messi-ian-fray-fined-slapping-philadelphia-union-players</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and Ian Fray have been fined undisclosed amounts for making contact in the head and neck area of opponents in separate incidents against Philadelphia.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 18:36:12 -0400</pubDate>
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				    <![CDATA[Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and Ian Fray have been fined undisclosed amounts for making contact in the head and neck area of opponents in separate incidents during second-half stoppage time in a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia, MLS said Friday. Messi slapped the Union's Quinn Sullivan on the back of the neck as the two exchanged words Wednesday night. Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, and added an assist. Sullivan also was involved in the fracas that led to Fray's fine. After Sullivan lost his footing dribbling into the penalty area, he got tangled with Fray, who then grabbed his neck. Sullivan jumped up and tackled Fray. Minnesota United FC defender Anthony Markanich was fined for embellishment in the second half of a 2-1 loss to Atlanta United on Wednesday. Reporting by The Associated Press.]]>
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					<![CDATA[Cristiano Ronaldo Scores For Al-Nassr In First Game Since 2026 World Cup]]>
				</title>
				<link>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/cristiano-ronaldo-scores-al-nassr-first-game-since-2026-world-cup</link>
				<guid>https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/cristiano-ronaldo-scores-al-nassr-first-game-since-2026-world-cup</guid>
				<category>soccer</category>
				<description>
				    <![CDATA[It didn't take long for Cristiano Ronaldo to return to his goalscoring ways with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.]]>
				</description>
				<pubDate>Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:13:57 -0400</pubDate>
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