There was no space, no right to shoot, and absolutely no statistical probability of success.

Arias struck in the 14th minute from close range after a cross from Luis Suarez, who had only just come on as a substitute for the injured Jhon Cordoba.

Questions about Messi's longevity have long since been answered, but coach Lionel Scaloni's conundrum remains -- how long can Argentina go on letting one little genius solve their problems?

Cape Verde, ranked 67th in the world, twice came from behind. Twice they refused to fold.

Scaloni acknowledged that the contest was far less comfortable than many had predicted, especially after Cape Verde's second equaliser raised the prospect of a major upset.

Sidny Lopes Cabral unleashed a sensational strike into the top corner to level the score at 2-2 and keep Cape Verde's dream alive.

The former Liverpool superstar and Egypt captain stepped up third in the shootout for his country and scored a "Panenka" as they beat Australia 4-2 on penalties after the game ended 1-1 in Texas.

An own goal from Diney Borges under pressure from Argentina's Cristian Romero in the 111th minute settled the match in Miami and reigning champions Argentina move on to face Egypt.

Hossam Abdelmaguid scored the winning penalty as Egypt made history by beating a dogged Australia 4-2 on penalties to reach the World Cup last 16 on Friday.

FIFA is considering bringing forward the kick-off time for Mexico's World Cup last-16 match against England at the Estadio Azteca on Sunday, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters, in a move that would transform the conditions for one of the tournament’s biggest ties.

Brazil, not Norway, will carry the heavier burden when the two sides meet in Sunday’s World Cup Round of 16, according to Kjetil Rekdal, whose late penalty sealed one of the greatest wins in Norwegian sporting history against the then four-time champions in 1998.

The jitters of their goalless opener against Cape Verde were all but gone

Egypt's talisman and captain Mohamed Salah was named to start the last-32 World Cup encounter with Australia in Texas on Friday following a hamstring niggle.

Penalty shootouts have always been one of football's cruellest examinations. After 120 minutes, months of preparation, and often, years of sacrifice, an entire nation's dreams can rest on a kick from 12 yards. History celebrates those who convert, but it hardly forgets those who falter.

It was supposed to be a farewell for a legend in Toronto.

Each tournament boosts businesses ranging from apparel to food delivery services.

“He was jumping around the street, glowing -- he’d just personalised his own Messi jersey. I couldn’t resist asking for a picture.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said Neymar is unhappy he has had such a limited role at the World Cup but has handled the situation professionally and remains a positive influence within the squad.

Pubs and bars across England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 5:00 am on Monday morning, Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, so fans can watch the World Cup last 16 clash against Mexico.

Australia and Egypt meet in a high-stakes FIFA World Cup last-32 clash in Arlington tonight, with a place in the Round of 16 at stake.