Lionel Messi, Argentina and the challenge of moving on from a GOAT
What happens when the greatest of all time moves on? The body of the 2026 World Cup is…
FIFA to investigate clashes between Spain and Argentina players after World Cup final
There were unsavoury scenes after the full-time whistle as Spain players ran on to the pitch to celebrate…
Why Argentina and Lionel Messi went nearly two hours without mustering a World Cup final shot
Spain are men’s world champions for a second time. And, as you may have predicted following another unerring…
How Argentina turned the World Cup final dirty with shoves, skulduggery and squealing
If you were hoping to finish this World Cup with a free-flowing game full of great football, endless…
The sadness of Lionel Messi’s last tango
Lionel Messi found himself surrounded. Tens of thousands of fans looked down on him at MetLife. Billions were…
Trump booed by World Cup final crowd, takes part in trophy presentation
United States President Donald Trump was booed loudly by fans at Sunday’s World Cup final alongside FIFA president…
How Spain won the World Cup and why Lionel Messi’s Argentina finished up furious
Spain won their first World Cup in extra time in 2010 and they did the same on Sunday…
Chelsea reach verbal agreement for £117m Morgan Rogers transfer
Chelsea have reached a verbal agreement with Aston Villa to sign Morgan Rogers. A bid of £117million (€137m,…
Lionel Messi talks about ‘crazy’ Lamine Yamal baby photos before they meet in World Cup final
You may now be familiar with the absolutely remarkable story of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal’s first meeting.…
World Cup final on track to be most expensive sporting event ever
When FIFA first put tickets on sale for the 2026 World Cup final, its prices left fans aghast.…
England’s problem at major tournaments? They’re still just too English
Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app. When Thomas Tuchel was…
How Messi genius, and England negativity, transformed a World Cup semi-final in 40 mad minutes
Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app For England, it is…