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Is Lionel Messi playing? Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis at 2026 Leagues Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Inter Miami face Atletico San Luis in their 2026 Leagues Cup debut, and many are wondering whether Lionel Messi will be available for this match. Inter Miami open their 2026 Leagues Cup campaign on Wednesday, August 5, hosting Atletico San Luis at Nu Stadium, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The Herons arrive unbeaten in their last seven MLS matches, while San Luis is still searching for its first win of the Apertura 2026 in Liga MX. For this crucial game, Lionel Messi will start. The Argentine returned from the World Cup off the bench in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew last weekend, and coach Guillermo Hoyos will now hand him his first start since the tournament, alongside Rodrigo De Paul, who is also in the lineup after working his way back from international duty. Hoyos will have to make do without two key attacking pieces for the opener. Luis Suárez is unavailable for the entire tournament, serving the first match of a six-game Leagues Cup suspension stemming from his conduct in last year’s final against Seattle Sounders. Germán Berterame is also out, still recovering from the hard collision he suffered against CF Montreal that required an overnight hospital stay, leaving Mateo Silvetti as the likely option to partner Messi up front. Es hoy. Vamos Miami. 😤⚔️ #MIAvASL pic.twitter.com/7u1HpUfhIz— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 5, 2026 Inter Miami confirmed lineup With Suárez, Berterame and also Tadeo Allende, who is recovering from knee surgery, ruled out for this match, Hoyos will feature a very different attack, but with Messi as starter. This is Miami’s confirmed starting XI: Ríos-Novo; Caicedo, Fray, Silva, Allen; Bright, Casemiro, De Paul, Segovia; Messi, Pinter. Atletico San Luis confirmed lineup Atletico San Luis arrive in a very different moment. The Mexican side has yet to find its footing in the Apertura, and this Leagues Cup opener gives them a chance to salvage some momentum against a strong Miami side. This is San Luis’ confirmed starting XI: Sánchez; Bambu, Álvarez, Águila; Torres, Salles-Lamonge, Macías, Esteves; Rodríguez, Flores, Llorente.

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Son Heung-min, Sebastian Berhalter and more: Which 2026 World Cup players will feature in the MLS-Liga MX All-Star Game?

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Son Heung-min and Sebastian Berhalter are two of the most prominent names that'll take part of the MLS-Liga MX All-Star Game while having participated in the 2026 World Cup. The annual showcase pitting MLS against Liga MX is right around the corner, set to bring together the premier talent across North America’s top two leagues. Fresh off the heels of the 2026 World Cup, South Korean superstar Son Heung-min and USMNT midfielder Sebastian Berhalter lead an extended list of international stars returning from World Cup duty to participate in the event. The marquee exhibition takes place Wednesday, July 29, at Bank of America Stadium, home of Charlotte FC. Coming just 10 days after the World Cup final, the All-Star match will serve as the first action back on the pitch for many returning international players, particularly those representing the three North American co-host nations. The USMNT presence on the MLS squad includes goalkeeper Matt Freese (New York City FC), veteran defender Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), midfielder Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) who’s expected to sign for Middlesbrough according to The Ahtletic, and wing-back Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew). Representing the Canadian national team, goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau (Orlando City) and defender Richie Laryea (Toronto FC) will both suit up. Liga MX‘s World Cup contingent relies heavily on El Tri‘s domestic core. The Mexican national team members featured on the Liga MX All-Star roster include goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo (Santos Laguna), defender Jesus Gallardo (Toluca), defender Israel Reyes (Club América), and midfielder Erik Lira (Cruz Azul). Luis Romo #7 of Mexico celebrates with teammates Jesus Gallardo #23 and Erik Lira #6 of Mexico. Rising Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora (Xolos de Tijuana) was initially named to the Liga MX roster before being ruled out alongside veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas. They join Inter Miami superstars Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul on the list of high-profile absences for Wednesday’s clash. Meanwhile, South Korean icon Son Heung-min will make his MLS All-Star debut following his World Cup campaign with his national team. Notably, Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Thomas Muller, though omitted from Germany’s World Cup squad, stands as the sole former World Cup champion participating in Wednesday’s midsummer showcase. Complete List of 2026 World Cup Players in the All-Star Game Maxime Crepeau (Orlando City SC) — CanadaMatt Freese (New York City FC) — United StatesMax Arfsten (Columbus Crew) — United StatesRichie Laryea (Toronto FC) — CanadaLucas Herrington (Colorado Rapids) — AustraliaSteven Moreira (Columbus Crew) — Cape VerdeTim Ream (Charlotte FC) — United StatesSebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) — United StatesAndres Cubas (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) — ParaguaySon Heung-min (LAFC) — South KoreaPetar Musa (FC Dallas) — CroatiaBrian Rodríguez (Club America) — UruguayCarlos Acevedo (Santos Laguna) — MexicoJesus Gallardo (Toluca) — MexicoIsrael Reyes (Club America) — MexicoErik Lira (Cruz Azul) — Mexico

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😲 Liga MX's youngest, and it's not Mora: joins Gallos from MLS

sports.yahoo.com · …

Midfielder Juan “Mono” Martínez has been officially registered with Querétaro’s first team, automatically becoming the youngest player registered to compete in the 2026 Apertura tournament. Co...

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Who is Gilberto Mora? Age, club, stats, and €20M release clause for Mexico’s youngest 2026 World Cup player

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Gilberto Mora is one of Mexico’s brightest hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mexico have the opportunity—and the pressure—to deliver a strong showing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of the tournament’s three host nations. To do so, they will rely on the talent of their top players, including Gilberto Mora. The attacking midfielder is the youngest player ever to represent Mexico at a FIFA World Cup, at just 17 years old. Born on October 14, 2008, he has already showcased his talent and influence on the field in a short professional career, earning a spot in the 26-man squad selected by head coach Javier Aguirre. Mora made his professional debut for Club Tijuana in August 2024 against Santos Laguna before turning 16 years old. That achievement made him the third-youngest player to debut in Liga MX history, behind Victor Manon and Martin Galvan. He immediately made an impact, recording an assist in his first appearance. Standing just 5-foot-6 (1.68 m), Gilberto is known primarily for his close control with his right foot and outstanding technical ability. He also stands out for his vision and ability to orchestrate his team’s attacks, a rare trait for a player of his age. Gil Mora playing for Club Tijuana. Since his debut in 2024, Mora has made 53 official appearances for Club Tijuana across Liga MX and Leagues Cup competition. In those matches, he has recorded 10 goals and two assists. During the most recent season, 2025-26, the midfielder scored six goals and added one assist in 20 appearances. Gilberto Mora’s journey with the Mexico national team His performances at club level earned Gilberto Mora an early opportunity with the Mexico national team. He represented the country at every youth level from the U-15 team through the U-20 side, with whom he competed at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where they were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals. Mora made his senior national team debut on January 16, 2025, becoming the youngest player in Mexico history to achieve that feat. Since then, he has made nine appearances in official matches and friendlies, recording one assist. He was also part of the squad that won the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, starting all three knockout-stage matches. How much is Gilberto Mora worth? Gilberto Mora quickly demonstrated the talent and potential to become a future superstar, attracting interest from several European clubs. In that context, Club Tijuana took an important step regarding his future. On June 9, 2026, they signed Mora to a new three-year contract, while also granting him a significant salary increase and handing him the club’s No. 10 jersey. According to reports, the deal also included a €20 million release clause designed to facilitate a future move to Europe.

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A 96-year-old record shattered: Gilberto Mora makes World Cup history for Mexico

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Gilberto Mora made history with Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gilberto Mora made history on Thursday during the Group A opener between Mexico and South Africa. The midfielder came on as a substitute for Alvaro Fidalgo in the 65th minute and became the youngest player in Mexico history to appear in a FIFA World Cup match. At 17 years and 240 days old, Mora broke a record set by Manuel ‘Chaquetas’ Rosas in 1930 that had stood for 96 years. The defender, born in 1912, had been Mexico’s youngest-ever World Cup player after appearing against France at the age of 18 years and 134 days at Uruguay 1930. Other Mexican players near the top of that list include Alfredo Torres (19 years and 16 days at Switzerland 1954), Raul Arellano (19 years and 108 days at Switzerland 1954), Andres Guardado (19 years and 269 days at Germany 2006), and Hugo Sanchez (19 years and 326 days at Argentina 1978). Mora earned the trust of head coach Javier Aguirre after standing out over the last two seasons with Club Tijuana, where he has made 53 appearances while recording 10 goals and two assists. Despite his young age, those performances have not only brought him international recognition but have also attracted interest from several European giants. Teboho Mokoena #4 of South Africa is challenged by Gilberto Mora #19 of Mexico. Other records held by Gilberto Mora In just two years as a professional player, Gilberto Mora has become accustomed to breaking records. When he made his debut for Tijuana in 2024, he became the third-youngest player in Liga MX history, trailing only Victor Manon and Martin Galvan. At the international level, he has achieved remarkable milestones as well. When he made his senior Mexico debut in January 2025, Mora became the youngest player in the nation’s history to accomplish that feat, at just 16 years old. Javier Aguirre’s decision to include him in the squad for the 2026 World Cup has now allowed him to claim another Mexico record by surpassing Manuel ‘Chaquetas’ Rosas. In addition, Gil Mora is the youngest of the 1,248 players participating in this edition of the tournament. Mora falls short of Pele record If he scores a goal in any of Mexico’s upcoming matches, Gilberto Mora would move into second place on the list of the youngest goalscorers in FIFA World Cup history. The record, which remains untouchable, belongs to Brazil legend Pele. He led his national team to the title at Sweden 1958 and scored at the age of just 17 years and 239 days in a quarterfinal match against Wales during that tournament.

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'The Morocco mindset has changed' - Could Afcon champions go further than 2022 World Cup semi-final?

mirror.co.uk · …

If an African team is to go deep into this World Cup, it would be hard to look past the Atlas Lions as the most likely candidates.

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Lionel Messi reportedly handed major boost as Guillermo Hoyos set to remain Inter Miami coach through 2026 MLS season

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami have reportedly taken the decision to leave Guillermo Hoyos as the head coach until the end of the 2026 MLS season. Lionel Messi has been one of the driving forces behind Inter Miami‘s recovery during a stretch of the season that included the departure of head coach Javier Mascherano. Now, ahead of the second half of the 2026 MLS campaign, the forward will receive a significant boost with Guillermo Hoyos reportedly confirmed as the club’s head coach through the end of the season. Mascherano stepped down from the Inter Miami head coaching role on April 14, citing personal reasons, following an inconsistent run of form in MLS and the club’s early elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Inter Miami board responded by transitioning Guillermo Hoyos from his sporting director role into the head coaching position on an interim basis. According to Fabrizio Romano, Hoyos will now remain in the dugout for the remainder of the 2026 season, making his appointment permanent through the end of the campaign. He had initially been expected to serve only until the World Cup break, but the board has since decided to keep him at the helm. Recent speculation had placed Pep Guardiola, who announced his departure from Manchester City at the end of the 2025-26 season, as a potential candidate for the Inter Miami project backed by David Beckham. However, the Spanish coach chose to step away from club management entirely after a decade at the Mancunian side, taking himself out of contention. Guillermo Hoyos, Head Coach of Inter Miami, chats with Facundo Mura. With Hoyos confirmed through the end of the season, he is now set to oversee the remaining 19 games on Inter Miami’s 2026 MLS regular-season schedule, along with three Leagues Cup matches and the 2026 Campeones Cup against the Liga MX champion. That total of 23 games could grow further depending on how far the Herons advance in each competition. Messi and Inter Miami’s record under Hoyos During the first part of the 2026 season under Mascherano, Inter Miami fell well short of the standard they had set when claiming the MLS Cup at the end of 2025. From the moment Hoyos took over, however, the team hit a new gear, and none more so than Messi himself. Since Hoyos’ debut in charge against the Colorado Rapids on April 18, Inter Miami have posted six wins, one draw and one defeat, the best start to a managerial tenure in the club’s history. For context, among a list of predecessors that includes Diego Alonso, Phil Neville, Javier Morales, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, and Mascherano, it was Martino who previously held that record with four wins, one draw and two defeats across his first seven games. As for Messi, the Argentine captain has been in exceptional form since Hoyos took over, a reunion with a man who knew him from his early days at FC Barcelona. Across eight appearances under the new coach, Messi has contributed seven goals and seven assists, cementing his status as the leading candidate for the MLS Player of the Month award for May.

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KV Mechelen defender rewarded for clubs good season with spot in Morocco’s World Cup squad

sports.yahoo.com · …

Morocco have announced their 26 man squad for the upcoming World Cup. The Atlas Lions, who made history in 2022 by going further than any African side has gone before, have included a number of talent...

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Match headlines

Is Lionel Messi playing? Confirmed lineups for Inter Miami vs Atletico San Luis at 2026 Leagues Cup

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Inter Miami face Atletico San Luis in their 2026 Leagues Cup debut, and many are wondering whether Lionel Messi will be available for this match. Inter Miami open their 2026 Leagues Cup campaign on Wednesday, August 5, hosting Atletico San Luis at Nu Stadium, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The Herons arrive unbeaten in their last seven MLS matches, while San Luis is still searching for its first win of the Apertura 2026 in Liga MX. For this crucial game, Lionel Messi will start. The Argentine returned from the World Cup off the bench in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew last weekend, and coach Guillermo Hoyos will now hand him his first start since the tournament, alongside Rodrigo De Paul, who is also in the lineup after working his way back from international duty. Hoyos will have to make do without two key attacking pieces for the opener. Luis Suárez is unavailable for the entire tournament, serving the first match of a six-game Leagues Cup suspension stemming from his conduct in last year’s final against Seattle Sounders. Germán Berterame is also out, still recovering from the hard collision he suffered against CF Montreal that required an overnight hospital stay, leaving Mateo Silvetti as the likely option to partner Messi up front. Es hoy. Vamos Miami. 😤⚔️ #MIAvASL pic.twitter.com/7u1HpUfhIz— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 5, 2026 Inter Miami confirmed lineup With Suárez, Berterame and also Tadeo Allende, who is recovering from knee surgery, ruled out for this match, Hoyos will feature a very different attack, but with Messi as starter. This is Miami’s confirmed starting XI: Ríos-Novo; Caicedo, Fray, Silva, Allen; Bright, Casemiro, De Paul, Segovia; Messi, Pinter. Atletico San Luis confirmed lineup Atletico San Luis arrive in a very different moment. The Mexican side has yet to find its footing in the Apertura, and this Leagues Cup opener gives them a chance to salvage some momentum against a strong Miami side. This is San Luis’ confirmed starting XI: Sánchez; Bambu, Álvarez, Águila; Torres, Salles-Lamonge, Macías, Esteves; Rodríguez, Flores, Llorente.

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Son Heung-min, Sebastian Berhalter and more: Which 2026 World Cup players will feature in the MLS-Liga MX All-Star Game?

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Son Heung-min and Sebastian Berhalter are two of the most prominent names that'll take part of the MLS-Liga MX All-Star Game while having participated in the 2026 World Cup. The annual showcase pitting MLS against Liga MX is right around the corner, set to bring together the premier talent across North America’s top two leagues. Fresh off the heels of the 2026 World Cup, South Korean superstar Son Heung-min and USMNT midfielder Sebastian Berhalter lead an extended list of international stars returning from World Cup duty to participate in the event. The marquee exhibition takes place Wednesday, July 29, at Bank of America Stadium, home of Charlotte FC. Coming just 10 days after the World Cup final, the All-Star match will serve as the first action back on the pitch for many returning international players, particularly those representing the three North American co-host nations. The USMNT presence on the MLS squad includes goalkeeper Matt Freese (New York City FC), veteran defender Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), midfielder Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) who’s expected to sign for Middlesbrough according to The Ahtletic, and wing-back Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew). Representing the Canadian national team, goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau (Orlando City) and defender Richie Laryea (Toronto FC) will both suit up. Liga MX‘s World Cup contingent relies heavily on El Tri‘s domestic core. The Mexican national team members featured on the Liga MX All-Star roster include goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo (Santos Laguna), defender Jesus Gallardo (Toluca), defender Israel Reyes (Club América), and midfielder Erik Lira (Cruz Azul). Luis Romo #7 of Mexico celebrates with teammates Jesus Gallardo #23 and Erik Lira #6 of Mexico. Rising Mexican prodigy Gilberto Mora (Xolos de Tijuana) was initially named to the Liga MX roster before being ruled out alongside veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas. They join Inter Miami superstars Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul on the list of high-profile absences for Wednesday’s clash. Meanwhile, South Korean icon Son Heung-min will make his MLS All-Star debut following his World Cup campaign with his national team. Notably, Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Thomas Muller, though omitted from Germany’s World Cup squad, stands as the sole former World Cup champion participating in Wednesday’s midsummer showcase. Complete List of 2026 World Cup Players in the All-Star Game Maxime Crepeau (Orlando City SC) — CanadaMatt Freese (New York City FC) — United StatesMax Arfsten (Columbus Crew) — United StatesRichie Laryea (Toronto FC) — CanadaLucas Herrington (Colorado Rapids) — AustraliaSteven Moreira (Columbus Crew) — Cape VerdeTim Ream (Charlotte FC) — United StatesSebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) — United StatesAndres Cubas (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) — ParaguaySon Heung-min (LAFC) — South KoreaPetar Musa (FC Dallas) — CroatiaBrian Rodríguez (Club America) — UruguayCarlos Acevedo (Santos Laguna) — MexicoJesus Gallardo (Toluca) — MexicoIsrael Reyes (Club America) — MexicoErik Lira (Cruz Azul) — Mexico

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😲 Liga MX's youngest, and it's not Mora: joins Gallos from MLS

sports.yahoo.com · …

Midfielder Juan “Mono” Martínez has been officially registered with Querétaro’s first team, automatically becoming the youngest player registered to compete in the 2026 Apertura tournament. Co...

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Who is Gilberto Mora? Age, club, stats, and €20M release clause for Mexico’s youngest 2026 World Cup player

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Gilberto Mora is one of Mexico’s brightest hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mexico have the opportunity—and the pressure—to deliver a strong showing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as one of the tournament’s three host nations. To do so, they will rely on the talent of their top players, including Gilberto Mora. The attacking midfielder is the youngest player ever to represent Mexico at a FIFA World Cup, at just 17 years old. Born on October 14, 2008, he has already showcased his talent and influence on the field in a short professional career, earning a spot in the 26-man squad selected by head coach Javier Aguirre. Mora made his professional debut for Club Tijuana in August 2024 against Santos Laguna before turning 16 years old. That achievement made him the third-youngest player to debut in Liga MX history, behind Victor Manon and Martin Galvan. He immediately made an impact, recording an assist in his first appearance. Standing just 5-foot-6 (1.68 m), Gilberto is known primarily for his close control with his right foot and outstanding technical ability. He also stands out for his vision and ability to orchestrate his team’s attacks, a rare trait for a player of his age. Gil Mora playing for Club Tijuana. Since his debut in 2024, Mora has made 53 official appearances for Club Tijuana across Liga MX and Leagues Cup competition. In those matches, he has recorded 10 goals and two assists. During the most recent season, 2025-26, the midfielder scored six goals and added one assist in 20 appearances. Gilberto Mora’s journey with the Mexico national team His performances at club level earned Gilberto Mora an early opportunity with the Mexico national team. He represented the country at every youth level from the U-15 team through the U-20 side, with whom he competed at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where they were eliminated by Argentina in the quarterfinals. Mora made his senior national team debut on January 16, 2025, becoming the youngest player in Mexico history to achieve that feat. Since then, he has made nine appearances in official matches and friendlies, recording one assist. He was also part of the squad that won the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, starting all three knockout-stage matches. How much is Gilberto Mora worth? Gilberto Mora quickly demonstrated the talent and potential to become a future superstar, attracting interest from several European clubs. In that context, Club Tijuana took an important step regarding his future. On June 9, 2026, they signed Mora to a new three-year contract, while also granting him a significant salary increase and handing him the club’s No. 10 jersey. According to reports, the deal also included a €20 million release clause designed to facilitate a future move to Europe.

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A 96-year-old record shattered: Gilberto Mora makes World Cup history for Mexico

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Gilberto Mora made history with Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gilberto Mora made history on Thursday during the Group A opener between Mexico and South Africa. The midfielder came on as a substitute for Alvaro Fidalgo in the 65th minute and became the youngest player in Mexico history to appear in a FIFA World Cup match. At 17 years and 240 days old, Mora broke a record set by Manuel ‘Chaquetas’ Rosas in 1930 that had stood for 96 years. The defender, born in 1912, had been Mexico’s youngest-ever World Cup player after appearing against France at the age of 18 years and 134 days at Uruguay 1930. Other Mexican players near the top of that list include Alfredo Torres (19 years and 16 days at Switzerland 1954), Raul Arellano (19 years and 108 days at Switzerland 1954), Andres Guardado (19 years and 269 days at Germany 2006), and Hugo Sanchez (19 years and 326 days at Argentina 1978). Mora earned the trust of head coach Javier Aguirre after standing out over the last two seasons with Club Tijuana, where he has made 53 appearances while recording 10 goals and two assists. Despite his young age, those performances have not only brought him international recognition but have also attracted interest from several European giants. Teboho Mokoena #4 of South Africa is challenged by Gilberto Mora #19 of Mexico. Other records held by Gilberto Mora In just two years as a professional player, Gilberto Mora has become accustomed to breaking records. When he made his debut for Tijuana in 2024, he became the third-youngest player in Liga MX history, trailing only Victor Manon and Martin Galvan. At the international level, he has achieved remarkable milestones as well. When he made his senior Mexico debut in January 2025, Mora became the youngest player in the nation’s history to accomplish that feat, at just 16 years old. Javier Aguirre’s decision to include him in the squad for the 2026 World Cup has now allowed him to claim another Mexico record by surpassing Manuel ‘Chaquetas’ Rosas. In addition, Gil Mora is the youngest of the 1,248 players participating in this edition of the tournament. Mora falls short of Pele record If he scores a goal in any of Mexico’s upcoming matches, Gilberto Mora would move into second place on the list of the youngest goalscorers in FIFA World Cup history. The record, which remains untouchable, belongs to Brazil legend Pele. He led his national team to the title at Sweden 1958 and scored at the age of just 17 years and 239 days in a quarterfinal match against Wales during that tournament.

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'The Morocco mindset has changed' - Could Afcon champions go further than 2022 World Cup semi-final?

mirror.co.uk · …

If an African team is to go deep into this World Cup, it would be hard to look past the Atlas Lions as the most likely candidates.

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Lionel Messi reportedly handed major boost as Guillermo Hoyos set to remain Inter Miami coach through 2026 MLS season

worldsoccertalk.com · …

Lionel Messi's Inter Miami have reportedly taken the decision to leave Guillermo Hoyos as the head coach until the end of the 2026 MLS season. Lionel Messi has been one of the driving forces behind Inter Miami‘s recovery during a stretch of the season that included the departure of head coach Javier Mascherano. Now, ahead of the second half of the 2026 MLS campaign, the forward will receive a significant boost with Guillermo Hoyos reportedly confirmed as the club’s head coach through the end of the season. Mascherano stepped down from the Inter Miami head coaching role on April 14, citing personal reasons, following an inconsistent run of form in MLS and the club’s early elimination from the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Inter Miami board responded by transitioning Guillermo Hoyos from his sporting director role into the head coaching position on an interim basis. According to Fabrizio Romano, Hoyos will now remain in the dugout for the remainder of the 2026 season, making his appointment permanent through the end of the campaign. He had initially been expected to serve only until the World Cup break, but the board has since decided to keep him at the helm. Recent speculation had placed Pep Guardiola, who announced his departure from Manchester City at the end of the 2025-26 season, as a potential candidate for the Inter Miami project backed by David Beckham. However, the Spanish coach chose to step away from club management entirely after a decade at the Mancunian side, taking himself out of contention. Guillermo Hoyos, Head Coach of Inter Miami, chats with Facundo Mura. With Hoyos confirmed through the end of the season, he is now set to oversee the remaining 19 games on Inter Miami’s 2026 MLS regular-season schedule, along with three Leagues Cup matches and the 2026 Campeones Cup against the Liga MX champion. That total of 23 games could grow further depending on how far the Herons advance in each competition. Messi and Inter Miami’s record under Hoyos During the first part of the 2026 season under Mascherano, Inter Miami fell well short of the standard they had set when claiming the MLS Cup at the end of 2025. From the moment Hoyos took over, however, the team hit a new gear, and none more so than Messi himself. Since Hoyos’ debut in charge against the Colorado Rapids on April 18, Inter Miami have posted six wins, one draw and one defeat, the best start to a managerial tenure in the club’s history. For context, among a list of predecessors that includes Diego Alonso, Phil Neville, Javier Morales, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, and Mascherano, it was Martino who previously held that record with four wins, one draw and two defeats across his first seven games. As for Messi, the Argentine captain has been in exceptional form since Hoyos took over, a reunion with a man who knew him from his early days at FC Barcelona. Across eight appearances under the new coach, Messi has contributed seven goals and seven assists, cementing his status as the leading candidate for the MLS Player of the Month award for May.

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KV Mechelen defender rewarded for clubs good season with spot in Morocco’s World Cup squad

sports.yahoo.com · …

Morocco have announced their 26 man squad for the upcoming World Cup. The Atlas Lions, who made history in 2022 by going further than any African side has gone before, have included a number of talent...

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