Key events

1h agoPreamble

Our reporter David Hytner reviews England’s training routines for the matchup with the Black Stars.

Thomas Tuchel outlines his thoughts on Ghana’s style in Foxborough: “I anticipate more time on the ball for them. I expect Ghana to focus on quick breaks since they are strong, speedy and a real threat.”

Shifting to the day’s schedule, England return to action later from Boston. Thomas Tuchel wants improved defending after allowing Croatia chances last time. Will they deliver versus Ghana? One fan remains optimistic since the Black Stars managed no shots in the opening period against Panama. Yet that risks inviting trouble. Apologies all.

Beyond Argentina’s strong start in Group J, Algeria mounted a fine recovery just hours back to eliminate Jordan early. Ahmed Benbouali and Amine Gouiri scored to level Algeria with Austria on three points via a 2-1 result in Santa Clara.

Respect to the French fan braving the downpour in Philadelphia. That rain looks intense!

Among the forwards, Erling Haaland stands out. The Norwegian powerhouse struck twice in the second period with fine finishes that left Senegal short despite their efforts. Ismaïla Sarr replied with two in a 3-2 thriller.

PS: Martin Ødegaard’s precise pass for Haaland’s opener stood out too.

Kylian Mbappé shone brightly too as France dismantled Iraq during a long weather delay in Philadelphia. His two goals tie him with Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup strikes at age 27. He could add several more I suspect. Apologies, Miroslav!

The Guardian’s Pablo Iglesias Maurer explores all aspects of Messi after the milestone at Dallas Stadium last night.

The star reflected on his feats: “It feels unique, yet as I have noted before it always does. As mentioned previously, I love to play and enjoy time on the field. The penalty was not ideal, but fortune helped us handle it, gain the lead and secure the win.”

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni added: “I lack words for Leo, it tires us all a little. I am delighted with his display. He found the net again. The side struggled at times and created issues today. When Leo gets involved everyone steps up.

“When the team faced pressure without the ball he contributed, winning possession back, showing his dedication and there is a cause for it. He shows commitment, which is what he inspires.”

Only one starting point fits. Lionel Messi. Utterly relentless at 38 and likely so at 39 when his birthday arrives tomorrow. A joy to see him lead the all-time World Cup scoring list ahead of that date.

“He is the greatest,” said teammate Julián Alvarez after Argentina’s leader outshone Austria with both goals in their 2-0 Group J victory. Difficult to dispute.

Preamble

Greetings football supporters! It seems Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland remain exceptional. Each delivered standout displays yesterday to advance Argentina, France and Norway into the last 32 after two matches. Messi now tops the all-time World Cup goal list with 18 and leads the Golden Boot with five while Mbappé and Haaland trail on four. Quite plausible, Jeff!

Today brings Portugal against Uzbekistan. Later comes Panama versus Croatia. Then DR Congo faces Colombia in the evening slot.

Also England versus Ghana at 9pm BST. Thomas Tuchel’s side resumes in Group L. What drama!

Welcome to World Cup 2026 – day 13!