Considering the heat, hydration breaks (water drinking pauses) have been introduced in this football World Cup. However, since its introduction, the matter has come under the spotlight of criticism. In the England vs Croatia match at Dallas Stadium, boos were heard across the stands as soon as the first hydration break began on Wednesday. It was clear that the spectators were expressing dissatisfaction with this rule.
The discussion over Brazil’s toothless performance against Morocco shows no signs of stopping. The topic also came up in defender Danilo’s press conference ahead of the team’s next match. The Brazilian defender criticised himself and said they failed to come anywhere near expectations.
The start of the two football powerhouses at the North American World Cup has been different. Argentina got off to a flying start with Lionel Messi’s hat-trick. Their arch-rivals, Brazil, had a shaky start after drawing with Morocco. In Geneva, Brazil President Lula da Silva faced questions on this issue. The 80-year-old Lula replied in a humorous tone.
Portugal star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo remained goalless again on the World Cup stage. Portugal drew 1-1 against DR Congo on a disappointing performance day. However, Ronaldo is reluctant to think too much about the result of the match or his own performance. Instead, he urged his teammates to focus on the next match with their heads held high.
Harry Kane etched his name deeper into football history on Wednesday night, scoring twice in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia to break a World Cup record previously shared by Lionel Messi and move level with England’s all-time World Cup scoring leader.
Colombia launched their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in style, overcoming World Cup newcomers Uzbekistan 3-1 in an entertaining Group K encounter at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium on Thursday (June 18).