<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> raised eyebrows during a press conference ahead of his participation in Euro 2024 with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/france">France</a>. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, the 25-year-old revealed he believes the European Championship is more difficult than the FIFA World Cup.



“The Euros are complicated. For me, more complicated than a World Cup,” Mbappe said. “Even if there is more pressure at the World Cup. All the teams know each other, we play against each other all the time. Tactically, it is a very similar soccer.”



A <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> winner with the French national team in 2018, Mbappe came close to winning the title in consecutive editions but Lionel Messi’s Argentina stood on Les Bleus‘ way at the Qatar 2022 final.



While it sounds strange to hear such a prominent player downplay the difficulty of the World Cup, it also shows how humble Mbappe is about his achievements. The striker will be looking to win his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/euro">Euros</a> this summer, so maybe this statement only reflects his desire to add this title to his résumé.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240604_BUS_130163_Mbappe-and-Messi-1-1024x576_d787d999.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kylian Mbappe controls the ball against Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar." class="wp-image-86325" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Mbappe-and-Messi-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Mbappe-and-Messi-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Mbappe-and-Messi-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Mbappe-and-Messi-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/Mbappe-and-Messi-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kylian Mbappe controls the ball against Lionel Messi during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mbappe questioned the level of soccer outside Europe</h2>



Mbappe’s recent comments remind of his controversial take on the level of South American soccer two years ago. Before the 2022 World Cup, the French striker claimed Europe had the strongest teams on the planet.



“The advantage we Europeans have is that we always play between us, in high level matches like the Nations League. When we arrive to the World Cup, we are ready. Brazil and Argentina don’t have that level in South America. Soccer is not as advanced as here in Europe. That’s why the last World Champions are always Europeans.”



Of course, his comments eventually backfired as France ended up losing to Argentina in the World Cup final at Qatar 2022. Still, it looks like Mbappe still believes the same as he sees the Euros as a tougher competition to win than the World Cup.



<h2>Mbappe looking forward to playing for Real Madrid</h2>



Before telling reporters he wanted to talk about France, and not <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a>, in this press conference, Mbappe took a moment to express his happiness for fulfilling a lifelong dream by joining Los Blancos.


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“I want to express myself before starting this press conference. It is an immense pleasure, a dream come true. I am extremely proud to arrive at a club that I have always dreamed of,” Mbappe said. “I’m arriving with a lot of humility. There are lots of emotions but I have a responsibility as captain of the France national team. I won’t reply to questions other than those about the national team. I would prefer to protect us because we have a big summer coming up.”

Mbappe downplays Messi's World Cup win with bold Euros statement

Kylian Mbappe claims Euros are tougher than the World Cup - Bolavip US

Kylian Mbappe believes the Euros are more difficult than the World Cup

miniaturas

Lionel Messi was the great leader on the field for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> to win the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> in Qatar. Outside of it, undoubtedly Cesar Luis Menotti was the key factor when he decided to give the opportunity to a young coach like Lionel Scaloni.



From that moment on, the destiny of the famous Albiceleste changed, achieving the title in the 2021 Copa America held in Brazil and a year later defeating France to touch glory.



Now, following the announcement of Menotti’s death at 85, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> dedicated a very special message to the soccer legend on his official Instagram account.



“We lost one of the great references of our soccer. Condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="576" height="1024" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240505_BUS_124208_messimenotti-576x1024_e93e7f64.webp&amp;width=576&amp;height=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-124211" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/messimenotti-576x1024.jpeg 576w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/messimenotti-169x300.jpeg 169w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/messimenotti-768x1365.jpeg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/messimenotti-864x1536.jpeg 864w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/05/messimenotti.jpeg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px"></figure><figcaption>Instagram / @leomessi</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Who was Cesar Luis Menotti?</h2>



Cesar Luis Menotti was the coach who led Argentina to win their first World Cup in 1978 defeating the Netherlands in the final. That team boasted great stars like the top scorer of the tournament Mario Kempes and the captain Daniel Passarella.









Menotti also managed very important clubs such as Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, River Plate and Boca Juniors. Additionally, he had a brief stint with the Mexican National Team in the early 90s where El Flaco laid the foundations for the best generation in the history of that country.


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Two decades later, as sporting director in Argentina, he was the mastermind behind the recent success that ended a 28-year drought without lifting an international title.

Lionel Messi dedicates heartfelt message to Cesar Luis Menotti on Instagram

Cesar Luis Menotti passed away: What happened to World Cup legend of Argentina?

The money that Messi\&#039;s bodyguard makes for taking care of Leo, Antonela and the Argentine\&#039;s family

Lionel Messi dedicates heartfelt message to Cesar Luis Menotti - Bolavip US

This Sunday, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> lost one of its great legends with the death of Cesar Luis Menotti at the age of 85. The genius from Rosario was the coach who gave his country its first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> in 1978 with a generation of stars like Mario Alberto Kempes and Daniel Passarella.



Menotti was a player for teams like Rosario Central, Boca Juniors, Racing and Santos. However, his most significant impact came as a coach where, at the club level, he led Newells, Boca, River Plate, Atletico Madrid, Sampdoria and Barcelona.



In recent years, Cesar Luis Menotti was the mastermind behind Lionel Scaloni’s project that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Copa America. A fundamental decision in the careers of players like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>.



<h2>Cesar Luis Menotti: What was the cause of death of Argentine legend?</h2>



So far, the cause of death of Cesar Luis Menotti has not been disclosed. Nevertheless, the Argentine Football Association dedicated a heartfelt message to him.







“With deep pain, we say goodbye to Cesar Luis Menotti, current Director of National Teams and World Champion as coach of Argentina in 1978. Thank you for everything, Flaco.”


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Cesar Luis Menotti: First World Cup champion coach with Argentina dies

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo gets closer to 900 goals with hat-trick for Al Nassr vs Al Wehda

Cesar Luis Menotti dies: Who was the World Cup legend of Argentina? - Bolavip US

Over the weekend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/fifa-world-cup-2026-azteca-way-behind-in-renovations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">365Scores reporte</a>d that the Estadio Azteca in Mexico was behind schedule and had not met “FIFA requirements”, a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> spokesperson spoke with Bolavip to shed a little more light on what was originally reported.



 The spokesperson indicated that FIFA is working with all host cities to prepare for the World Cup in the United States, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a>, and Canada, and that the Estadio Azteca’s renovations are on schedule. 



The Estadio Azteca is one of the cathedrals of world soccer and the FIFA World Cup having the unique distinction of being the stadium in which two of the greatest players of their generations, Pele and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/the-rollercoaster-career-of-diego-maradona-20201030-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diego Maradona</a> lifted the FIFA World Cup on the field of Estadio Azteca.



<h2>FIFA statement on Estadio Azteca</h2>


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The spokesman commented that, “FIFA continues to work closely with its Host Cities and stadiums to stage the biggest, most inclusive, and successful FIFA World Cup in history in 2026. This close collaboration with all 16 venues includes regular site visits, workshops and meetings that started back in 2022 and will continue until the event kicks off on June 11, 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="570" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240404_BUS_116822_Estadio-Azteca-1024x570_af8db257.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=570" alt="" class="wp-image-116650" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-1024x570.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-300x167.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-768x428.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Estadio Azteca</figcaption></figure>



“We continue to work closely with Azteca Stadium on their timely renovation plans ahead of hosting the Opening Match of the tournament.


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“Specific details regarding fan access and additional information about matches will be announced in due course.”

FIFA clarifies Estadio Azteca situation

FIFA clarifies Estadio Azteca situation - Bolavip US

Time is ticking for Estadio Azteca to get things ready for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA World Cup</a> in 2026. While the majority of the next World Cup will be played in the United States, the famed Estadio Azteca will be featured in the tournament, as it will play host to the opening match of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a> in the tournament and other matches.



At the moment of the three venues in Mexico, BBVA, home of Rayados, and the Akron, home of Chivas, have all passed FIFA’s requests in order to officially qualify as a FIFA World Cup venue.



The only one to fail was surprisingly the Estadio Azteca, which hosted the World Cup finals twice in 1970 and 1986 and has the distinction of being the stadium which Pele and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/the-rollercoaster-career-of-diego-maradona-20201030-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diego Maradona</a> both lifted the trophy.



<h2>Ultimatum for Estadio Azteca</h2>


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According to 365Scores, “The Azteca Stadium did NOT pass the FIFA tests for the 2026 World Cup. The first report of the year arrived, and the Azteca is DELAYED by 6 months according to its planned remodeling”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="570" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240404_BUS_116649_Diego-Maradona-1024x570_99c0e7d2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=570" alt="" class="wp-image-116651" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Diego-Maradona-1024x570.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Diego-Maradona-300x167.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Diego-Maradona-768x428.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Diego-Maradona.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Diego Maradona</figcaption></figure>



With the 365Scores report, Mexico has been given six-months to fix all the issues pertaining to the Estadio Azteca. The chances of Estadio Azteca having its venue assignation removed seems unlikely but it is a warning for the host nation to get things moving quickly.


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In February of this year, Mexico’s interim head of government, Martí Batres, announced that the project of the Estadio Azteca to have a hotel and shopping center has been abandoned, and the stadium will only be renovated.

Estadio Azteca way behind schedule to make 2026 FIFA World Cup

FIFA World Cup 2026: Estadio Azteca way behind in renovations - Bolavip US

FIFA World Cup 2026: Estadio Azteca way behind in renovations

The ex-wife of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentine</a> midfielder Exequiel Palacios, Yesica Frias, gave a lot to talk about on Thursday by claiming she was selling the player’s 2022 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> kit and winners’ medal.



The story immediately went viral, with many people calling her out for auctioning off such an important part of Palacios’ career, while others blamed the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bayer-leverkusen">Bayer Leverkusen</a> star for allegedly not giving her ex-wife a proper economic offer to get divorced.



Either way, it turns out Frias didn’t actually sell the original winners’ medal her ex-husband received at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/qatar-2022">Qatar 2022</a>. Speaking to Bolavip Argentina, she admitted selling a replica, while the original is still in Palacios’ possession.



“I don’t have the original medal, he has it,” Frias said. “I have a copy. But such a stir was created that I will show it today. With all the things that happen in the world and in the country, for me to be on the news for a medal, I think it’s too much. That’s how we are as a society.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240229_BUS_108163_Frias-1024x572_886b06c1.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-108061" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Frias-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Frias-300x168.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Frias-768x429.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/Frias.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>via Instagram: yesifrias_</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Frias makes post with buyer of Palacios’ jersey and medal</h2>



In an interview with the show “Socios del Espectaculo” from Argentine TV channel ElTrece, Frias stated she’s struggling to maintain herself economically. In fact, she claimed facing difficulties to pay off the property where she’s living.


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“He told me he wasn’t going to finish paying for it because he didn’t know if it would be for him or not,” she said about the house. “And I’m just asking him for what is rightfully mine that we did together, and to sign the divorce for me.”



Then Frias made it clear she wouldn’t hesitate to auction her ex-husband’s memento in order to raise funds. She took to Instagram only a few hours later, posting a picture with the apparent winner of Palacios’ jersey and medal. “The buyer of the first shirt. One less payment,” Frias wrote.

Ex-wife of Argentine World Cup champ sells his medal, but there's a catch

Ex-wife of Argentine World Cup champ sets record straight on medal sold - Bolavip US

Ex-wife of Argentine World Cup champion sets record straight on selling his medal

The 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA World Cup</a> may be in June – July of 2026, but already things are heating up for the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a>. In an announcement ceremony which included Kevin Hart and Kim Kardashian, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> president Gianni Infantino made huge announcements related to the tournament.



 The biggest is announcing that the FIFA World Cup final in 2026 will be hosted by MetLife Stadium in the New York/New Jersey area on July 19th. Kicking off the competition, Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host the opening game of the World Cup 2026 on June 11th. 



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/us-national-team" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USMNT</a> will play their World Cup games in Los Angeles (twice) and one in Seattle. Canada will kick off their World Cup run in Toronto on June 12th. Here is a breakdown of all the matches and the venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.



<h2>FIFA 2026 World Cup venues</h2>



USA (11)



Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium Boston – Gillette Stadium Dallas – AT&amp;T Stadium Houston – NRG Stadium Kansas City – Arrowhead Stadium Los Angeles – SoFi Stadium Miami – Hard Rock Stadium New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field San Francisco – Levi’s Stadium Seattle – Lumen Field



Canada (2)



Toronto – BMO Field Vancouver – BC Place



Mexico (3)



Guadalajara – Estadio Akron Mexico City – Estadio Azteca Monterrey – Estadio BBVA



 



<h2>Venue breakdown after Group stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1024x576_cf6012e2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-64559" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Christian Pulisic</figcaption></figure>



Round of 32: Every city except for Guadalajara and Philadelphia. Los Angeles and Dallas will host two round of 32 clashes. 



Round of 16: Vancouver, Seattle, Mexico City, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Philadelphia, East Rutherford 



Quarterfinals: Los Angeles, Kansas City, Miami, Boston 



Semifinals: Dallas, Atlanta 



Third-place playoff: Miami 



Final: East Rutherford 


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<h2>2026 FIFA World Cup venue schedule for the whole tournament </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_rauljimenez-1024x576_110af601.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-86459" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Raul Jimenez </figcaption></figure>



Thursday, 11 June 2026 Match 1 (Mexico #1) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 2 – Estadio Guadalajara 



Friday, 12 June 2026 Match 3 (Canada #1) – Toronto Stadium Match 4 (USA #1) – Los Angeles Stadium 



Saturday, 13 June 2026 Match 5 – Boston Stadium Match 6 – BC Place Vancouver Match 7 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 8 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium 



Sunday, 14 June 2026 Match 9 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 10 – Houston Stadium Match 11 – Dallas Stadium Match 12 – Estadio Monterrey 



Monday, 15 June 2026 Match 13 – Miami Stadium Match 14 – Atlanta Stadium Match 15 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 16 – Seattle Stadium



Tuesday, 16 June 2026 Match 17 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 18 – Boston Stadium Match 19 – Kansas City Stadium Match 20 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Wednesday, 17 June 2026 Match 21 – Toronto Stadium Match 22 – Dallas Stadium Match 23 – Houston Stadium Match 24 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City 



Thursday, 18 June 2026 Match 25 – Atlanta Stadium Match 26 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 27 (Canada #2) – BC Place Vancouver Match 28 (Mexico #2) – Estadio Guadalajara



Friday, 19 June 2026 Match 29 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 30 – Boston Stadium Match 31 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 32 (USA #2) – Seattle Stadium



Saturday, 20 June 2026 Match 33 – Toronto Stadium Match 34 – Kansas City Stadium Match 35 – Houston Stadium Match 36 – Estadio Monterrey



Sunday, 21 June 2026 Match 37 – Miami Stadium Match 38 – Atlanta Stadium Match 39 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 40 – BC Place Vancouver



Monday, 22 June 2026 Match 41 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 42 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 43 – Dallas Stadium Match 44 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Tuesday, 23 June 2026 Match 45 – Boston Stadium Match 46 – Toronto Stadium Match 47 – Houston Stadium Match 48 – Estadio Guadalajara



Wednesday, 24 June 2026 Match 49 – Miami Stadium Match 50 – Atlanta Stadium Match 51 (Canada #3) – BC Place Vancouver Match 52 – Seattle Stadium Match 53 (Mexico #3) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 54 – Estadio Monterrey



Thursday, 25 June 2026 Match 55 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 56 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 57 – Dallas Stadium Match 58 – Kansas City Stadium Match 59 (USA #3) – Los Angeles Stadium Match 60 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Friday, 26 June 2026 Match 61 – Boston Stadium Match 62 – Toronto Stadium Match 63 – Seattle Stadium Match 64 – BC Place Vancouver Match 65 – Houston Stadium Match 66 – Estadio Guadalajara



Saturday, 27 June 2026 Match 67 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 68 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 69 – Kansas City Stadium Match 70 – Dallas Stadium Match 71 – Miami Stadium Match 72 – Atlanta Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 – Round of 32 fixtures Sunday, 28 June 2026 Match 73 – Los Angeles Stadium



Monday, 29 June 2026 Match 74 – Boston Stadium Match 75 – Estadio Monterrey Match 76 – Houston Stadium



Tuesday, 30 June 2026 Match 77 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 78 – Dallas Stadium Match 79 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City



Wednesday, 1 July 2026 Match 80 – Atlanta Stadium Match 81 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 82 – Seattle Stadium



Thursday, 2 July 2026 Match 83 – Toronto Stadium Match 84 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 85 – BC Place Vancouver



Friday, 3 July 2026 Match 86 – Miami Stadium Match 87 – Kansas City Stadium Match 88 – Dallas Stadium



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1024x576_b2dd9c1f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team&apos;s second goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina." class="wp-image-89231" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina.</figcaption></figure>



FIFA World Cup 26 Round of 16 fixtures Saturday, 4 July 2026 Match 89 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 90 – Houston Stadium



Sunday, 5 July 2026 Match 91 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 92 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City



Monday, 6 July 2026 Match 93 – Dallas Stadium Match 94 – Seattle Stadium



Tuesday, 7 July 2026 Match 95 – Atlanta Stadium Match 96 – BC Place Vancouver



FIFA World Cup 26 quarter-final fixtures Thursday, 9 July 2026 Match 97 – Boston Stadium



Friday, 10 July 2026 Match 98 – Los Angeles Stadium



Saturday, 11 July 2026 Match 99 – Miami Stadium Match 100 – Kansas City Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 semi-final fixtures Tuesday, 14 July 2026 Match 101 – Dallas Stadium



Wednesday, 15 July 2026 Match 102 – Atlanta Stadium 


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FIFA World Cup 26 Third Place Game Saturday, 18 July 2026 Match 103 – Miami Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 Final Sunday, 19 July 2026 Match 104 – New York New Jersey Stadium

2026 FIFA World Cup schedule

2026 fifa world cup schedule - Bolavip US

2026 FIFA World Cup: Venue and game breakdown

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup 2026</a> will be the first edition of the tournament with three countries as hosts: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico">Mexico</a>, Canada and the United States. Furthermore, with 48 participants, this is the biggest number of teams ever in the competition.



These are the 16 cities selected as official venues for the World Cup: Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Monterrey, Guadalajara and Mexico City.



Of course, this World Cup could be the last dance for soccer legends such as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>. That’s why thousands of fans in America are thrilled about what’s coming in two years. 



This Sunday, FIFA announced the official calendar of the World Cup 2026. Read here to find out which cities will host the final and the opening match.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240204_BUS_102303_messi-1024x576_d7bd7bbc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi with Argentina" class="wp-image-66229" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi could play his final World Cup with Argentina in 2026 (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>World Cup 2026: Which city will host the final?</h2>



New York will host the final of the 2026 World Cup. The owner of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a> in the NFL, Jerry Jones, made a tremendous push to bring that game to Arlington, but failed. So, on July 19th of that year, Metlife Stadium in New Jersey gets the most anticipated match in decades. 







<h2>World Cup 2026: Which city will host the opening match?</h2>



Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host the opening game of the World Cup 2026 on June 11th. It’s important to remember Mexico is the first country in history to host the tournament three times. 



During the group stage, Mexico’s national team will play two matches in Mexico City and one more in Guadalajara.


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<h2>Which will be the 2026 World Cup format?</h2>



FIFA had to change the initial plan regarding the tournament’s format. Though the first proposal had a group stage format with 16 groups of three teams, the 2026 World Cup will have 12 groups of four national teams each.



The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams from the groups will advance to the Round of 32. Then, the World Cup will enter the knockout stages all the way to the final. 


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World Cup 2026: FIFA confirms which cities will host the final and the opening match

FIFA makes a very special request to Lionel Messi ahead of 2026 World Cup

Argentina\&#039;s coach answers if Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup

World Cup 2026: Which cities will host the final and the opening match? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a>&nbsp;was great during his first months&nbsp;with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inter Miami</a>. One of the worst teams in the&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLS</a>&nbsp;won the&nbsp;2023 Leagues Cup&nbsp;and made an interesting run toward the playoffs.



However, an injury derailed Messi’s hopes to lead the club into the postseason, but, his individual performances gave him prestigious awards such as the Ballon d’Or and The Best. 



Now, Messi is 36-years old and no one knows for sure if retirement could be an option in the near future. In fact, this is the same discussion with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> in&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/saudi-arabia">Saudi Arabia</a>. 



The former player of FC Barcelona has already confirmed he’ll be at the 2024 Copa America to defend the title. However, the big question is what will happen towards the 2026 World Cup.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240127_BUS_100601_lionelmessi-2-1024x576_69e0668e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-83066" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi might play in the 2026 World Cup (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?</h2>



During an exclusive interview with Diario Marca in Spain, Lionel Scaloni, coach of Argentina’s national team, was asked about the rumors circulating that Lionel Messi could play his sixth World Cup in 2026 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.







“Today I tell you that there are players who have played at that age, and in his case, it wouldn’t surprise me. But it’s so far away, and in football, time flies by quickly. I believe he can. Physically, I have no doubts, only mentally, and that depends on how he feels.”


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Furthermore, Scaloni talked about how he envisions the Argentine national team on the day veterans like Messi or Angel Di Maria choose to retire. The coach remembered what happened to other legends. 



“In the end, there came a moment when Maradona left the Argentine national team, Ruggeri left, and other great players departed, yet Argentina continued. It will hurt a lot because they are great players who have given so much, but we have the obligation because the Argentine national team, beyond Leo or Maradona, has always been a powerful team.”


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That’s why, though the target is to win 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup, a renewal process is also on the works. “We will face the challenge of remaining strong without them. That is the direction we need to aim for because at some point, they won’t be there: creating a team equally competitive with other players. We must envision it and set goals for when they are not around.”


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Lionel Messi is close to a final decision about playing in the 2026 World Cup

UEFA makes final decision about Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar playing at the Champions League

Argentina's coach confirms if Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup - Bolavip US

Lionel Scaloni reveals if Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup

Argentina's coach answers if Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup

A new year has started and the soccer community already feels that the next <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">FIFA World Cup</a> is getting closer. For the first time in tournament history, three countries will host the competition when the United States, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico">Mexico</a>, and Canada serve as co-hosts for the 2026 event.



While the governing body has already announced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/capacity-history-and-more-the-complete-2026-fifa-world-cup-stadium-guide-20220621-0026.html">all the venues</a>, fans are still waiting to know where the grand final will take place. According to the London Times, the three stadiums that are still in consideration are the AT&amp;T Stadium (Dallas), MetLife Stadium (New York), and SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles).



The report claims the MetLife Stadium are “slight” favorites to get the upper hand, while the AT&amp;T Stadium is making a “strong push” to get the big game. SoFi Stadium, meanwhile, has reportedly made a “last-ditch” effort to comply with FIFA’s demands regarding to space on the sidelines.



Let’s keep in mind that all these stadiums currently use artificial turf, so the venue that ultimately gets the hosting rights for the 2026 World Cup final will have to switch to natural grass.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240124_BUS_100012_MetLife-Stadium-1024x576_fce1ece3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="A general view of the MetLife Stadium." class="wp-image-100023" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>A general view of the MetLife Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The World Cup returns to the US more than three decades later</h2>



2026 will be the second time the United States host a World Cup, having already served as home to the 1994 event. On that occasion, the grand final took place at a packed Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California as Brazil beat Italy on penalties in front of 94,194 spectators.


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Flash-forward to the 21st century, the iconic Rose Bowl remains one of the largest stadiums in the US but the modern SoFi Stadium was selected as California’s representative venue in the second World Cup that takes place in American soil.



<h2>All the 2026 World Cup venues</h2>



<h3>United States</h3>



<ul><li>Atlanta</li><li>Boston </li><li>Dallas</li><li>Houston </li><li>Kansas City </li><li>Miami </li><li>New York/New Jersey</li><li>Philadelphia</li><li>San Francisco Bay Area</li><li>Seattle</li></ul>



<h3>Mexico</h3>



<ul><li>Guadalajara</li><li>Mexico City</li><li>Monterrey</li></ul>



<h3>Canada</h3>



<ul><li>Toronto</li><li>Vancouver</li></ul>

Three cities still "in the mix" to host highly anticipated 2026 World Cup final

2026 World Cup final still has three stadiums in contention - report - Bolavip US

Report: The three stadiums still in contention to host 2026 World Cup final

Cruz Azul and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/club-america">Club America</a> have always had a significant home-field advantage in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/liga-mx">Liga MX</a> by turning Estadio Azteca into a fortress. In fact, that was a key factor in determining the champion of Apertura 2023.



Club America were the best team in the regular season, accumulating 40 points. Their home record was extraordinary: 7 wins, 2 draws and only one loss. In the tournament’s final, the support of their fans was crucial to defeat a historic rival such as Tigres UANL.



Meanwhile, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cruz-azul">Cruz Azul</a> ended a 23-year title drought when they were crowned Liga MX champions in 2021. This achievement occurred upon their return to Estadio Azteca after playing for a long time in the famous Estadio Azul.



Now, due to very important reasons for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico">Mexico</a>, both teams will have to temporarily change their venue. Their new home will be Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes which is also located in Mexico City.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240113_BUS_97727_estadioazteca-1024x576_de2eb45b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-97745" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/estadioazteca-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/estadioazteca-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/estadioazteca-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/estadioazteca-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/estadioazteca.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cruz Azul and Club America will leave Estadio Azteca (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Why America and Cruz Azul are not playing in Estadio Azteca?</h2>



Cruz Azul and Club America are not playing their home matches at Estadio Azteca because the historic venue is undergoing renovations in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.







Estadio Azteca was inaugurated on May 29, 1966, so it needs to be modernized if the organizing committee of the tournament wants to meet FIFA’s established requirements.


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Therefore, everything indicates that the stadium will remain closed for any events during 2024 and 2025. So far, there is no official reopening date, although it will have to be ready for 2026.



<h2>Which stadium has hosted the most World Cups?</h2>



Estadio Azteca will be the first stadium in history to host three World Cups. The famous ‘Coloso de Santa Ursula’ hosted the 1970 edition with Pele as the star and, in 1986, witnessed how Diego Armando Maradona led Argentina to the pinnacle of soccer.

Why aren't Cruz Azul and Club America hosting their matches at Estadio Azteca in the Liga MX 2024?

Carlos Vela might leave MLS and LAFC to sign with a powerhouse in Liga MX

Report: Chicharito Hernandez will sign with a giant club in Liga MX

Why aren't Cruz Azul and Club America hosting their matches at Estadio Azteca in the Liga MX 2024? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and Argentina are currently in first place of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">2026 World Cup qualifiers</a> in Conmebol with 15 points after six matches. However, a big sanction has been announced and that might complicate their journey to defend the title won in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/qatar-2022">Qatar 2022</a>.



The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed a partial stadium closure on the national team. This penalty is a result of incidents that occurred during the games played from September to November in 2023. 



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> will have to close at least 50% of the seats in the stadium they select as host venue for the match against Chile in September of 2024. A huge disadvantage facing a historic rival in the qualifiers. 



The decision is a consequence of “team misconduct (delayed kick-off), discrimination (discriminatory behavior by supporters) and invasion of the field of play” during the games against Ecuador and Uruguay.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240110_BUS_97002_lionelmessi-1024x576_00791274.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi with Argentina" class="wp-image-82552" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/lionelmessi.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi and Argentina were punished because of their behavior in World Cup qualifiers (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Lionel Messi and Argentina receive big sanctions</h2>



Furthermore, Argentina’s Football Association will have to pay a fine of 58 000 dollars for the incidents in those two matches and another one of 23 000 dollars for “lack of order or discipline in or around the stadium” during the game at Maracana Stadium when they faced Brazil.







The match between Brazil and Argentina caused a global scandal when the police clashed with several Argentine fans in the stadium. Messi approached the stands and then instructed his teammates to go to the locker room, delaying the start of the match.


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It’s remarkable that FIFA did not impose a stadium ban or a reduction in seating capacity for Brazil as the host nation of that match. Instead, they will only have to pay a fine of 58 000 dollars for “failure to ensure that law and order are maintained in and around the stadium and lack of order or discipline in the stadium.”

Lionel Messi and Argentina get big punishment from FIFA in 2026 World Cup qualifiers

Lionel Messi and Argentina get big punishment from FIFA in 2026 World Cup qualifiers - Bolavip US

The FIFA World Cup 2022 has gone down in history as one of the most exciting World Cups of all time, despite the backlash of the tournament mostly due to social issues, the Qatar World Cup gave us without question the best World Cup final of all time.



The tournament ended with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> finally lifting the World Cup for Argentina, marking the country’s third World Cup triumph. The World Cup also gave us <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kylian-mbappe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kylian Mbappé</a>’s 8 goals and second consecutive World Cup finally positioning the French star as the heir apparent to Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.



With regards to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/us-national-team" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USMNT</a>, the US made it to the round of 16 with a memorable 0-0 draw with England and an emotional win over Iran that saw Christian Pulisic score a game winner putting his body on the line for country.



<h2>Netflix World Cup docuseries</h2>


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‘Captains of the World’ will have exclusive interviews with Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Harry Kane. It will also highlight the miracle run of Morocco during the tournament where the team finished 4th.



In the trailer there are interviews with Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi, Luka Modric, Gareth Bale, Didier Deschamps, and Harry Kane, as well as images from the team locker rooms as the players prepare for critical World Cup matches.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">From the dressing room to the pitch, this is the definitive story of the FIFA World Cup 2022. Captains of the World – a new docuseries with exclusive access to all 32 teams – comes to Netflix 30 December. <a href="https://t.co/i8AZTSNxgg">pic.twitter.com/i8AZTSNxgg</a>— Netflix UK &amp; Ireland (@NetflixUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/NetflixUK/status/1738137302503678370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



The documentary is one of many documentaries that will be produced for Netflix, following the streaming services multi-million-dollar agreement with FIFA’s broadcasting.


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Netflix drops trailer for FIFA World Cup 2022 Documentary

Netflix drops trailer for FIFA World Cup 2022 Documentary - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> ended an elusive quest for a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> trophy by leading <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> to the ultimate glory at Qatar 2022. While many were rooting for him to succeed, others were not so happy with the result. In fact, former Netherlands manager <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/louis-van-gaal">Louis van Gaal</a> even claimed La Albiceleste were favored to win the tournament.



“I don’t really want to say much about it. If you see how Argentina gets the goals and how we get the goals and how some of Argentina’s players crossed the line and weren’t punished, then I think it’s all preconceived game,” van Gaal told Dutch outlet NOS in September. “I mean everything I say by that. That Messi had to become world champion? I think so, yes.”



Wout Weghorst was asked about the strong accusation made by his former coach, but far from siding with van Gaal, the striker stated Argentina deserved to become the world champion.



“No, honestly, I don’t agree with Van Gaal. I heard what he said but I don’t see it that way,” Weghorst said, via ESPN. “We equalized in the tenth minute of stoppage time with a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. If it was the other way around, why would the referee give that free-kick? In the end, Argentina deserved to win the World Cup.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20231220_BUS_93356_Wout-Weghorst-1-1024x576_cf144f5c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Wout Weghorst of Netherlands during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina at Lusail Stadium on December 09, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar." class="wp-image-93388" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Wout-Weghorst-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Wout-Weghorst-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Wout-Weghorst-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Wout-Weghorst-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Wout-Weghorst-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Wout Weghorst of Netherlands during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina at Lusail Stadium on December 09, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Wout Weghorst’s heated match against Argentina</h2>



Weghorst was the subject of a heated exchange with Messi in the quarterfinal clash between Netherlands and Argentina, with the Inter Miami star calling him “idiot” as the Dutchman stared at him during a post-game interview.


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That kind of overshadowed the fact that Weghorst put his nation back in the game when it looked like it was over. The striker came off the bench after 78′, and only five minutes later, he pulled one back for the Oranje. In the dying seconds of the match, the Hoffenheim player scored the equalizer to force the extra time.



Weghorst got into Messi and other Argentine players’ nerves, as the world champs accused him of taunting them during the match. But the 31-year-old has no hard feelings, so he hasn’t echoed van Gaal’s sentiments.



<h2>Other Dutch players also disagreed with van Gaal</h2>



Van Gaal’s comments gave a lot to talk about in the soccer community, and Weghorst wasn’t the only one who had something to say about it. Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk, for instance, also took distance from his former coach.


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“He can say what he wants, it is of course his opinion. Everyone can have an opinion. But I don’t agree with him and I don’t share the same opinion,” van Dijk said, before making it clear the Dutch squad didn’t stand behind van Gaal’s words.



Goalkeeper Mark Flekken echoed the defender’s sentiments by then, “If that’s his opinion, then he is allowed to share it. But personally I don’t agree with his opinion.”

Messi's enemy in Qatar 2022 makes shocking comment about van Gaal's accusation that World Cup was fixed

Messi's enemy at Qatar 2022 reacts to van Gaal claiming World Cup was fixed for Argentina - Bolavip US

Weghorst reacts to van Gaal claiming World Cup was fixed for Messi, Argentina

On this day but in 2022, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina">Argentina</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/france">France</a> put on a show in one of the best games of all time. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and company ended up getting the upper hand on the defending champions led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kylian-mbappe">Kylian Mbappe</a> to lift the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> in Qatar, following a dramatic match decided on penalties.



La Albiceleste took a comfortable 2-0 lead in the first half with goals from Messi and Angel Di Maria, but Mbappe put their backs against the wall with a brace late in the second half, forcing the extra time.



Messi was once again on target to restore the lead for Argentina, but then his former PSG teammate scored another penalty to make it 3-3. The South American nation emerged victorious in the shootout, which saw Leo end his elusive quest for a World Cup.



For many, Qatar 2022 will go down as the tournament in which Messi established himself as arguably the greatest player of all time. But what if the 8x Ballon d’Or winner hadn’t played in the final? Let’s see what the IA had to say.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="217" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20231218_BUS_92975_image-14-1024x217_93854c90.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=217" alt="" class="wp-image-92981" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/image-14-1024x217.png 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/image-14-300x64.png 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/image-14-768x163.png 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/image-14.png 1275w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Our question to Bing Chat</figcaption></figure>



<h2>IA believes Mbappe would have helped France beat Argentina if Messi hadn’t played </h2>



As IA’s popularity has soared this year, we’ve asked Bing Chat to imagine a scenario in which Messi didn’t take the field for Argentina in the 2022 World Cup final. “Well, that’s a very interesting exercise of imagination,” the IA responded before revealing its predicted outcome.


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“The match started with clear dominance from France, who came out with more intensity and ambition than Argentina. The French team took the lead in the 12th minute when Griezmann capitalized on a filtered pass from Mbappe to beat Martinez with a low and precise shot to the post. Argentina tried to react but found a very solid and organized defense from France, which left no spaces or clear chances,” it began. France were leading 1-0.



“France extended their lead in the 32nd minute when Rabiot stole the ball in the middle of the field and passed it to Coman, who entered from the right wing and crossed it into the area, where Mbape headed it into the back of the net, making it 2-0. Argentina were against the ropes and couldn’t find a way to generate danger, while France continued to press and seek the third goal,” it continued.



“Argentina continued to insist and managed to narrow the gap in the 64th minute when Lautaro Martinez headed a corner kicked by Di Maria, surprising the French defense and Lloris himself, who couldn’t prevent the goal. The goal gave hope to Argentina, who went for the equalizer, leaving more spaces behind.“


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The IA imagined a scenario in which Mbappe would have also made a huge impact, only that this time it would have been enough for France to win the game.



“France took advantage of those spaces and sealed the game in the 78th minute when Mbappe once again showcased his speed and quality, receiving a pass from Griezmann and leaving Pezzella behind with a spectacular dribble before finishing with a crossed shot that hit the top corner, making it 3-1 and his second personal goal.”



“Argentina did not give up and continued fighting until the end but could not breach Lloris’ goal again, who was very secure and attentive throughout. France was crowned world champion for the second consecutive time, with an outstanding performance from Mbappe, who was chosen as the best player of the tournament and the top scorer with 10 goals.“


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The predicted scenario suggests Mbappe would have taken all the limelight without Messi on the field, which doesn’t sound strange at all. The French star had a fantastic performance in Qatar, winning the Golden Boot with 8 goals in 7 games. The truth is that Messi did play and his contribution was instrumental for Argentina’s success, so much that it overshadowed Mbappe’s hat-trick in the final. Anyway, it’s interesting to imagine alternative scenarios to one of the best World Cups of all time.

IA reveals shocking alternative of 2022 World Cup final if Messi hadn't played

Argentina-France 2022 World Cup final: What if Lionel Messi hadn't played? - Bolavip US

IA predicts alternative result of 2022 World Cup final without Lionel Messi

Latest news from World Cup. Find out about all the news related to World Cup on bolavip.com/en

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