Author: Alie Bittar @bittar32

Lionel Messi's First World Cup Hat-Trick Sinks Algeria
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Lionel Messi’s First World Cup Hat-Trick Sinks Algeria

Veteran attacker Lionel Messi scored his first World Cup hat-trick as Algeria’s return to the FIFA World Cup ended in sadness as they fell 3-0 to Argentina in their Group J opener in Kansas City.

Even though the score seems good for Argentina, Algeria played well against one of the favourites before Lionel Messi’s amazing hat-trick, which tied him for the all-time World Cup goalscoring record.

Though they lost, Algeria demonstrated a good football mentality. Coach Vladimir Petkovic’s team showed courage and structure.

The game got off to an exciting start. Though a VAR review determined it offside, Messi believed he scored in the fifth minute. Algeria rapidly answered Fares Chaibi’s pass from Ibrahim Maza, but another offside call ruled out that goal as well.

Algeria played solid defence, and goalie Luca Zidane came up with numerous crucial stops. Messi scored in the 17th minute with an amazing left-footed attempt. Though behind, Algeria kept fighting, and Chaibi presented a continual threat.

Argentina dominating the ball defined the second half as well. Reacting swiftly to a rebound, Messi scored once again; his hat trick followed in the 76th minute with a curved shot.

Algeria concentrated on lost opportunities and lessons acquired while Argentina rejoiced. On June 22 in San Francisco, winning is essential to keep their chances of reaching the knockout rounds alive as they will next meet Jordan.

Though they lost, Algeria’s skill and tenacity reveal that their World Cup path is still on.

Sierra Leone-born Trevoh Chalobah joins England World Cup squad
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Sierra Leone-born Trevoh Chalobah joins England World Cup squad

Chelsea and Sierra Leone-born Trevoh Chalobah has been called into England’s 26-player squad at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after injury sadly forced the withdrawal of Tino Livramento.

The news was confirmed via the official England team website – “Arrangements are now being made for the Chelsea defender to make the journey to the team’s basecamp in Kansas City, while the rest of the squad will head to Dallas, Texas for the Three Lions’ opening group fixture against Croatia on Wednesday.”

FIFA regulations allow participating teams to replace an outfield player up to 24 hours before their opening fixture.

Newcastle United defender Livramento picked up a calf injury in training on Sunday afternoon. A subsequent scan and medical assessment on Monday, unfortunately, confirmed he could play no further part in England’s tournament.

Thomas Tuchel’s side is set for their opening game against Croatia on Wednesday at the Dallas Stadium.

Former Morocco coach Hervé Renard named Tunisia manager
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Former Morocco coach Hervé Renard named Tunisia manager

As Tunisia named former Morocco coach Hervé Renard their head coach for the rest of the 2026 World Cup, the ambiguity has been eliminated.

Renard steps in for coach Sabri Lamouchi following a devastating 5-1 loss to Sweden in their first game that sparked public outrage and calls for quick action.

Renard will lead the team until the World Cup ends, according to the Tunisian Football Federation, with more talks scheduled following the championship event. The seasoned coach, who has led Morocco and Saudi Arabia before, is set to join the team for their next Group F games.

Their next match is against Japan on the 21st at Monterrey Stadium, then a vital group match against a rival on the 26th at Kansas City Stadium.

Cabo Verde keeper Vozinha shines in draw with Spain
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cabo Verde keeper Vozinha shines in draw with Spain

Keeper Josimar José Évora Dias, aka Vozinha, was instrumental as Cape Verde pulled off an amazing upset on their 2026 FIFA World Cup debut against mighty Spain. As first-time football global participants, the little island nation held Spain, the title favourites, to a goalless draw.
 
Starting the game with 50,000 Instagram followers, the Blue Sharks’ outstanding, 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha showcased their importance and ended the day with over five million and counting new admirers. 
 
Furthermore, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt also pulled off shocking ties against Uruguay, IR Iran, and Belgium. On Matchday 5, FIFA provides an interesting synopsis.
 
Not many thought Cabo Verde had a possibility. Among the tiniest nations ever to compete in the World Cup, in both size and population, they were up against the favourites. Everyone agreed the only issue was not whether Spain would win, but by how many goals.
 
Thanks to a remarkable defensive effort and amazing saves from 40-year-old Vozinha, which helped Bubista’s team earn a historic point, the net finally remained untouched.
 
Lamine Yamal, who entered the game in the 71st minute and sparkled, was the only bright spot for Luis de la Fuente’s team. But the 18-year-old virtuoso couldn’t eclipse one of the most important days in Cape Verdean history.
 
Vozinha, Cabo Verde goalkeeper who was named the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match, noted, “We worked a lot for this. We knew we were playing against one of the best national teams in the world, but we also know our quality. We worked a lot for this big day. We knew it was going to be very difficult but we’re very happy.”
Egypt's Emam Ashour reflects on his goal and the team's progress
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Egypt’s Emam Ashour reflects on his goal and the team’s progress

Egypt’s first game of the FIFA World Cup 2026 ended in a 1-1 draw against Belgium, with Emam Ashour being crucial for the team. He considered the development of Egyptian football.

Hossam Hassan, the Egyptian coach, was confident his team would strive to honour their country. The team’s performance met his standards, demonstrating drive and focus to leave a long legacy.

Egypt’s first goal of the tournament came from Ashour, who was emotional. It makes me upset, he said, we might have won. Though he drew, he underlined the need to maintain faith and fight.

He praised the dedication of the squad and the vision of his coach. It’s a privilege to wear the Egypt shirt. Strong attitude shown, we battled for our nation and team. For the following games, we will concentrate on enhancements.

Mostafa Shobeir, the goalkeeper, lamented lost opportunities to win. We want to create a significant legacy and hope to reach the knockout round, he added.

Younger players like Hamza Abdelrakim are rising as well. He said, We wanted all three points, but we learned from this match and appreciate the coach’s trust.

Following the draw, Egypt will play New Zealand in Vancouver on June 21.