The 2026 FIFA World Cup continued to generate headlines both on and off the pitch. The United States suffered a significant blow ahead of their Group 4 match against Australia when manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed that star attacker Christian Pulisic would not play due to a calf injury. Pulisic had been instrumental in the Americans’ 4-1 opening victory over Paraguay, contributing an assist and sparking the move that led to the first goal. In his absence, Pochettino opted for a Ricardo Pepi–Folarin Balogun strike partnership.
Meanwhile in Argentina, the World Cup produced a bizarre media scandal. Television host Florencia Peña announced on Luzu TV that Jorge Messi — father of Lionel Messi — had died, and suggested the Argentine superstar would withdraw from the tournament. The report was false. The Messi family issued a statement confirming that Jorge Messi was hospitalized with an undisclosed medical issue but was “progressing favourably.” Peña resigned, and Luzu TV said “those responsible” had been relieved of their duties.
In another World Cup storyline, Brazilian fans nervously pondered scenarios should their team lose to Haiti in Group C action.
