Speaking to reporters during a training session, Balogun admitted that he finds the prolific goal-scoring rate of the game’s top players both annoying and deeply motivating.

The striker stated that he is eager to continue climbing the tournament scoring charts and establish himself among the top goal scorers at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

“I think it’s annoying!” Balogun joked. “Seeing players like Messi, Mbappe, Haaland, they’re so inevitable. I think they’re scoring a goal a game, sometimes more. For me, it’s just about trying to get to that level, to be inevitable as well, to be consistent. And I’m sure I’ve got the potential in me to do that.”

While looking to chase down top scorers like Messi, who recently broke the all-time tournament scoring record, Balogun also faces tactical decisions, as he is currently sitting on a yellow card ahead of the knockout rounds.

“That is the sort of player I am,” he said. “I think the most important thing for a professional athlete in any sport is to be available. I’m no different, so, of course, I want to play. But it’s also important to be smart. I wouldn’t want to pick up a yellow card and miss the round of 32.”

Balogun concluded by expressing his long-term ambitions for the remainder of the competition, noting that the further the team advances, the more opportunities he will have to find the back of the net. He added that any goal scored on the World Cup stage is an achievement that will be cherished forever.

The France captain continued his remarkable scoring run with a brace against Iraq, taking his tally at the ongoing tournament to four goals and moving within one strike of tournament leader Messi.

Messi currently tops the Golden Boot standings with five goals after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria.

Mbappe is level with Norway striker Erling Haaland on four goals, setting up a fascinating battle for the tournament’s top scorer award as the knockout rounds approach.

The rivalry extends beyond the 2026 Golden Boot race.

The Argentina captain entered the match tied with Germany legend Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, having equalled the record with a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria earlier in the tournament. Messi’s brace against Austria took his tally to 18 goals, moving him clear at the top of the all-time World Cup scoring chart.

The 38-year-old, featuring in his record-equalling sixth World Cup, endured a frustrating start after missing a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes. Despite squandering several chances, the Lionel Messi responded in typical fashion, delivering when it mattered most to guide the defending champions into the knockout stages.

Messi’s first goal came from a well-worked team move before he calmly slotted home from close range in added time after Julián Álvarez’s effort was blocked. The brace also took his tally at the 2026 tournament to five goals in just two matches.

Argentina’s victory secured their place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare, maintaining a perfect start to their title defence. Lionel Scaloni’s side will face Jordan in their final Group J fixture, with Messi having another opportunity to extend his record.

Messi’s latest achievement has also put him ahead of several World Cup greats, including Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazário and Klose. Meanwhile, France captain Kylian Mbappé remains among the closest active challengers. Mbappe has 14 World Cup goals and could continue his pursuit of Messi’s newly established mark as the tournament progresses.

Having already won the World Cup in 2022, Messi continues to rewrite football history, adding yet another landmark achievement to a career widely regarded as one of the greatest the sport has ever seen.

Star winger Mohammed Salah was among the scorers in the comeback win in Vancouver on Sunday, which leaves the Pharaohs top of their group and in pole position to qualify for the knockout stages for the first time.

“It’s incredible,” said the 34-year-old, who is leaving Liverpool this summer. “I don’t know how to express it in words.”

“It’s a great achievement for all the players, for the staff, so hopefully we can carry on like this in the group, and we can write history and qualify (to the knock-outs), and in years to come it will be remembered as one the best achievements in the history (of Egyptian football).”

As coach Hossam Hassan took to the podium following the game, journalists began clapping in unison.

“I want to tell all Egyptians that I love them. We’ve worked so hard to make you happy,” said Hassan at the press conference, before even being asked a question. “You deserve nothing but the best.”

The victory over New Zealand, which followed an impressive performance in the 1-1 draw against Belgium last Monday, propelled Egypt to first place in Group G on four points.

Belgium played out a 0-0 draw with Iran, the Pharaohs’ next opponents in Seattle on Friday, to leave both on two points.

While Egypt have not yet mathematically qualified for the knockout rounds, they can finish no lower than third in the group even if they lose to Iran, and their four points are highly likely to be sufficient to qualify as one of the eight best third-place finishers.

Victory over Iran would guarantee top spot and a Round of 32 match against a third-place finisher, ahead of a potential tie with co-hosts the United States in the Round of 16.

Long a powerhouse in African football, Egypt are seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions, most recently in 2010.

But the Pharaohs have until now been unable to replicate their success on the global stage.

Their first appearance in 1934, before the introduction of a group stage, resulted in a 4-2 loss to Hungary in Naples.

In 1990, two draws and a defeat were not enough to see them through to the next round, while at Russia 2018 they lost all three games.

Africa has had it rough in the past hours as Japan crushed Tunisia 4-0 on Sunday not long after Ivory Coast lost 2-1 to Germany at the  ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Japan shined brightly in the dominant Group F encounter at Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe in Mexico on Sunday.

The Japanese side started the match brightly and wasted little time in taking the lead. Just four minutes into the game, Daichi Kamada opened the scoring after receiving a fine pass from Junya Ito.

Kamada calmly placed his effort beyond the Tunisian goalkeeper to give Japan an early advantage.

The early goal unsettled Tunisia, while Japan grew in confidence and continued to control possession.

Their quick passing and movement caused problems for the Tunisian defence, which struggled to cope with the pace of the Japanese attack.

Japan’s pressure paid off again in the 31st minute when Ayase Ueda doubled the lead.

Keito Nakamura provided the assist with an intelligent pass that split the defence, allowing Ueda to finish confidently and put his side firmly in control of the contest.

Leading 2-0 at halftime, Japan returned for the second half with the same attacking intent.

Tunisia attempted to respond and enjoyed brief periods of possession, but they found it difficult to break through Japan’s organised defence.

Japan continued to threaten on the counterattack and nearly added a third goal on several occasions before eventually doing so in the 69th minute.

This time, Kamada turned provider as he set up Junya Ito, who made no mistake with a composed finish to extend the lead to 3-0.

The third goal effectively ended any hopes of a Tunisian comeback as Japan maintained their dominance across the pitch.

Their midfield dictated the tempo, while the forwards remained dangerous whenever they moved forward.

Ayase Ueda completed the scoring in the 84th minute with his second goal of the night. Ritsu Doan supplied the assist with a well-delivered pass, and Ueda finished clinically to make it 4-0 and cap an impressive personal performance.

The victory highlighted Japan’s strength as a team, with their attack showing efficiency and their defence remaining solid throughout the match.

The combination of Kamada, Ito and Ueda proved especially effective, contributing all four goals and three assists between them.

For Tunisia, it was a difficult evening as they struggled to match Japan’s intensity and quality.

In spite of showing determination, they lacked the cutting edge needed to trouble the Japanese defence and were punished for defensive lapses.

The convincing win gives Japan a major boost in Group F and strengthens their chances of advancing to the knockout stage, while Tunisia will need a strong response in their next match to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Viewing centre operators in Kwara have expressed concern over low patronage during the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The operators, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Ilorin, attributed the poor turnout largely to Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the tournament.

Deji Aina, a viewing centre operator in the Amilegbe area of Ilorin, said patronage had fallen far below expectations.

“People are showing little interest in watching the matches, unlike what we used to experience in the past when viewing centres would be filled to capacity during the World Cup,” he said.

Similarly, Aliyu Muritala, who operates a viewing centre in the Taiwo area, said the absence of the Super Eagles had negatively affected turnout.

“Most people are not interested because the Super Eagles failed to qualify.

“The turnout is too low and it is affecting our business,” he said.

Also speaking, another operator, Samson Adeolu, described the situation as the poorest turnout he had experienced during a World Cup competition.

According to him, patronage has dropped significantly compared to previous tournaments.

“My centre used to accommodate more than 70 people during previous World Cups and major European football competitions.

“Now, I only get about seven or eight viewers in spite of the fact that it is the World Cup. It is seriously affecting our business,” he said.

Another operator, Segun Abolarin, from Ganmo, said he initially attributed the low turnout to the time difference between Nigeria and the host countries.

He, however, noted that even matches played at more convenient hours had failed to attract large audiences.

Houseman, who is credited with discovering several African football stars, recently secured the signature of Ghana’s highly-rated 18-year-old prospect, Kelvin Nhrumah.

The veteran scout described Africa as a fertile ground for football talents waiting for opportunities to showcase their abilities on the global stage.

“There are so many undiscovered talents across Africa.

“The continent is blessed with gifted footballers who only need the right opportunities,” he said.

Houseman said his passion for grassroots football had taken him to various African countries in search of players capable of excelling at the highest level.

According to him, some of Africa’s biggest football stars were identified through similar scouting missions conducted over the years.

“I discovered Odion Ighalo when nobody knew him.

“I also found Kim Ojo and worked with players such as Obinna Nsofor, Solomon Okoronkwo and Christian Ebere,” he said.

The Argentine added that he also played roles in the careers of South African football greats Lucas Radebe, Doctor Khumalo, John Moshoeu and Philemon Masinga.

“My biggest discovery of all was Shabani Nonda. His rise to the top remains one of my proudest achievements in football scouting,” he said.

Houseman added that his forthcoming visit would focus on identifying talented youngsters capable of making the transition from grassroots football to professional clubs abroad.

“I am coming to Nigeria and Ghana to make new discoveries.

“There are future stars there waiting to be found and developed,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the latest African tour would uncover another generation of players capable of replicating similar success stories.

“Every great player starts somewhere. My mission is to find those hidden talents and help them reach the level they deserve,” Houseman said.

The Three Lions started brightly and were rewarded in the 12th minute when captain Harry Kane converted a penalty to give England the lead.

Croatia responded strongly and levelled the contest in the 36th minute through Martin Baturina, who produced a fine strike from outside the box.

England regained control before the interval as Kane scored his second goal of the match in the 42nd minute, heading home from a corner to restore the advantage.

However, Croatia refused to collapse and equalised again deep into first-half stoppage time, with Petar Musa finishing a swift attacking move in the 45th minute plus five minutes.

The teams went into the break level at 2-2 after an entertaining first half that saw both sides display attacking intent.

England returned strongly after the restart and regained the lead just two minutes into the second half.

Jude Bellingham scored in the 47th minute after a determined solo run and finish, putting England ahead for the third time.

Croatia continued searching for another comeback, but England’s defence remained composed while their forwards created further opportunities.

The Three Lions sealed the victory in the 85th minute when Marcus Rashford finished clinically after a pass from Bukayo Saka.

The final whistle confirmed a 4-2 win for England, with Kane, Bellingham and Rashford providing the goals that secured a memorable World Cup triumph.

While his ‘rival’ Messi gave Argentina three goals against Algeria, Ronaldo could not break Congo’s defiance to produce even one.

Portugal were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Congo in their Group K match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup played at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, USA, after a spirited performance by the African side on Wednesday.

Portugal started the match brightly and took the lead as early as the sixth minute through João Neves.

The young midfielder finished off a well-worked move to give the Europeans an early advantage and put DR Congo under pressure.

After conceding the early goal, DR Congo gradually settled into the game and showed determination.

The Congolese side remained organised in defence and looked dangerous on counter-attacks, refusing to allow Portugal dominate completely.

Portugal enjoyed more possession and created several chances in the first half.

However, they were unable to increase their lead due to some wasteful finishing and resilient defending from DR Congo.

Just when it seemed that Portugal would go into the break with a one-goal advantage, DR Congo found an equaliser deep into stoppage time.

Yoane Wissa scored in the fifth minute of added time (45+5) to make it 1-1 and silence the Portuguese supporters.

The goal was a major boost for the African side, who entered the second half with renewed confidence. Wissa’s strike rewarded DR Congo for their persistence and ensured the match remained evenly balanced.

In the second half, Portugal pushed forward in search of a winning goal.

Their midfield controlled large periods of possession, while the attack continued to test the Congolese defence. However, DR Congo remained disciplined and defended bravely.

The Congolese team also threatened on the break, using their pace and physical strength to trouble Portugal’s backline whenever opportunities arose.

As the game progressed, both teams searched for a decisive goal, but neither side could find the breakthrough.

Portugal’s attacking efforts were repeatedly denied, while DR Congo’s defence stood firm under pressure.

The draw leaves both teams with a point and keeps Group K wide open.

Portugal may feel disappointed after taking an early lead, while DR Congo will be encouraged by their fighting spirit and ability to recover from an early setback.

For Portugal, João Neves was one of the standout performers with his early goal and energetic display in midfield.

While for  DR Congo, Yoane Wissa proved decisive with his important equaliser before halftime.

The result highlighted the growing competitiveness of African teams at the World Cup, with DR Congo showing resilience, determination and tactical discipline against one of Europe’s strongest sides.

The Three Lions started brightly and were rewarded in the 12th minute when captain Harry Kane converted a penalty to give England the lead.

Croatia responded strongly and levelled the contest in the 36th minute through Martin Baturina, who produced a fine strike from outside the box.

England regained control before the interval as Kane scored his second goal of the match in the 42nd minute, heading home from a corner to restore the advantage.

However, Croatia refused to collapse and equalised again deep into first-half stoppage time, with Petar Musa finishing a swift attacking move in the 45th minute plus five minutes.

The teams went into the break level at 2-2 after an entertaining first half that saw both sides display attacking intent.

England returned strongly after the restart and regained the lead just two minutes into the second half.

Jude Bellingham scored in the 47th minute after a determined solo run and finish, putting England ahead for the third time.

Croatia continued searching for another comeback, but England’s defence remained composed while their forwards created further opportunities.

The Three Lions sealed the victory in the 85th minute when Marcus Rashford finished clinically after a pass from Bukayo Saka.

The final whistle confirmed a 4-2 win for England, with Kane, Bellingham and Rashford providing the goals that secured a memorable World Cup triumph.