The 2026 FIFA World Cup is deep into the knock-out stages, with HuffPost live-blogging every twist and turn as the final looms at New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
Tournament Plagued by Controversy
Even before a ball was kicked, the 23rd edition of the tournament was engulfed in controversy: from Iran’s tough journey to the competition amid Donald Trump’s war, to the president’s close relationship with FIFA’s Peace Prize-awarding President Gianni Infantino. Trump’s travel bans kept some fans and officials out, and soaring ticket prices sparked fury.
Once the soccer actually began, much of the concern was eased — at least for a short while. The sport’s biggest stars came out to play, and Cape Verde’s Cinderella story captured the imagination. Off the field, Norway’s “Viking row” went viral, and Boston was a sea of tartan as Scotland’s fans took over.
Hydration Breaks and Trump Intervention
But the introduction of hydration breaks, seen as a vehicle for TV advertising, prompted booing from fans and questions about the fundamentals of the game being undermined. Trump’s intervention in an effort to get a red card reversed for U.S. forward Folarin Balogun was fruitless, as the Americans were soundly defeated by Belgium, leaving a stain on this World Cup.
Messi Magic in Atlanta
Lionel Messi did it yet again at this year’s World Cup. The Argentina great scored once while inspiring his team to an improbable 3-2 victory over Egypt on Tuesday despite trailing by two goals with only 11 minutes to play. The defending champions will next face either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Kansas City, Missouri.
