Trump Weighs In on Football’s GOAT Debate, Says Pelé, Messi and Ronaldo Are All Greats

 United States President Donald Trump has joined one of football’s longest-running debates, refusing to choose between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo while paying tribute to Brazilian legend Pelé.

Speaking during an interview with FOX Sports amid the FIFA World Cup, Trump acknowledged the extraordinary achievements of both modern-day superstars but said his admiration for football dates back to watching Pelé play in the United States.

“Messi is great and Ronaldo is great. And I hate to say this, but I’ve watched Pelé when he was with the Cosmos.”

Trump recalled watching Pelé during the Brazilian icon’s time with the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League (NASL), describing the three-time World Cup winner as one of the greatest players he has ever seen.

“I got to see Pelé play, and he was great. Look, these are great players.”

The U.S. president added that football has produced many legendary talents beyond Messi and Ronaldo, mentioning France captain Kylian Mbappé despite the forward’s difficult outing in France’s final match of the tournament.

“There are some others. Look at France—he had a little rough game the last time, but he’s certainly one of the greats.”

Trump also revealed that much of his football knowledge comes from his youngest son, Barron Trump, whom he described as a passionate follower of the sport.

“I get this information from my son Barron. My son Barron is a tremendous soccer fan.”

He added that the current generation of footballers continues to impress him.

“You have some other really incredible players playing here.”

Although he stopped short of naming a definitive Greatest of All Time (GOAT), Trump admitted he has long admired both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

“But I would say right now, I mean, I’ve always liked Ronaldo. I’ve always liked Messi.”

Trump has frequently commented on football during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, previously praising Messi’s vision and movement after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England while also questioning England manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision to deploy Harry Kane in a deeper role.

His latest remarks are likely to reignite the endless GOAT debate among football fans, with supporters of Pelé, Messi and Ronaldo each pointing to their respective achievements.

Pelé remains the only player to have won three FIFA World Cups, Ronaldo holds numerous goalscoring records across club and international football, while Messi’s career includes multiple Ballon d’Or titles, World Cup success and countless club honours.

Rather than declaring one player the greatest, Trump chose to celebrate all three, saying football has been fortunate to witness several generations of extraordinary talent.

From Favourites to Heartbreak: Spain Shock Argentina to Win FIFA World Cup as Trump’s Messi Prediction Falls Short

Spain defied expectations on Sunday night to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Argentina 1-0 in a dramatic final, ending one of the tournament’s biggest storylines and proving that football can still produce stunning upsets.

Heading into the final, much of the football world had tipped Argentina to complete another World Cup triumph. Lionel Messi’s side had captured the imagination of fans with an impressive run through the knockout stages, while bookmakers, pundits and supporters widely viewed La Albiceleste as favourites to lift the trophy.

Even U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in before the match, praising Messi’s influence and suggesting that stopping the Argentine captain would be an enormous challenge.

Speaking ahead of the final, Trump described Messi as a player capable of changing a game in an instant.

“I watched that pass that Messi made… He was well guarded, and all of a sudden he is standing on the right. Nobody talked about it, I just noticed it. He had plenty of time, and he kicked it. Brilliant.”

Trump also indicated that he believed Messi’s brilliance would once again be decisive, reinforcing the growing belief that Argentina were on course to become world champions.

The confidence surrounding Argentina was also fuelled by FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s praise for the tournament, which had drawn record crowds and global attention. Argentina’s run to the final had become one of the biggest attractions of the competition, with millions expecting Messi to add another World Cup title to his legendary career.

But football had other plans, Spain delivered a disciplined and composed performance, frustrating Argentina’s attacking stars before finding the breakthrough that ultimately decided the final. Their defence remained organised throughout the contest, limiting Messi’s space and preventing Argentina from creating the clear-cut chances they had enjoyed in previous matches.

When the final whistle sounded, Spain had secured a famous 1-0 victory, completing one of the tournament’s biggest surprises and claiming the FIFA World Cup trophy.

For Argentina, the defeat marked a painful end to a campaign that had looked destined for glory. Having eliminated England in the semi-finals and entered the final with enormous momentum, many expected Lionel Scaloni’s side to finish the job.

Instead, Spain produced the performance of the tournament when it mattered most.

The result quickly sparked reactions across social media, with many fans describing it as proof that no team, regardless of reputation or form, is guaranteed success in football.

Spain’s triumph also capped an impressive World Cup campaign in which they consistently improved as the tournament progressed, overcoming several top opponents before denying Argentina in the final.

Although Messi finished the tournament with another memorable campaign, the night ultimately belonged to Spain, whose resilience and tactical discipline earned them the biggest prize in world football.

Their victory serves as another reminder that in football, favourites do not always become champions. Regardless of predictions, star power or public expectation, trophies are decided on the pitch.

For Spain, it is a night that will be remembered for generations. For Argentina, it is a painful reminder that even the most widely backed team can fall at the final hurdle.

World Cup Honours Shared Despite Argentina’s Final Defeat

Although Argentina fell short in the final, several players were recognised for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament, while Spain’s triumph was reflected in the major individual awards.

Spain midfielder Rodri was named the Golden Ball winner after inspiring La Roja to their second FIFA World Cup title with commanding performances from midfield throughout the competition. 

France captain Kylian Mbappé finished as the tournament’s top scorer, winning the Golden Boot with 10 goals. His brace in France’s 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place playoff also saw him become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history with 22 career goals, overtaking Lionel Messi’s previous mark. 

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Golden Glove award after producing a series of outstanding performances, including another clean sheet in the final against Argentina. His heroics were instrumental in Spain conceding just one goal throughout the knockout stage. 

Another Spanish star, Pau Cubarsí, was named the tournament’s Best Young Player, capping a breakthrough World Cup with composed defensive displays that belied his age. 

Spain’s victory also secured a unique place in football history. By winning the men’s 2026 FIFA World Cup while already holding the women’s world title, La Roja became the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup crowns. 

As the curtain falls on an unforgettable tournament, Spain leave North America as world champions, Mbappé departs with another Golden Boot and a historic scoring record, while Argentina are left wondering how a team many believed was destined for glory saw their World Cup dream end just one step from the trophy.

End of an Era: Macron, Mbappé Lead Tributes as Didier Deschamps Bows Out After 14 Years as France Coach

France’s defeat to England in the FIFA World Cup third-place playoff on Saturday marked more than the end of the tournament for Les Bleus. It also brought the curtain down on Didier Deschamps’ remarkable 14-year reign as head coach of the French national team, ending one of the most successful managerial eras in international football.

The 57-year-old managed his final match in charge as France fell 6-4 to England in a thrilling contest, closing a chapter that saw him guide the national team to major titles and establish himself among the country’s greatest football figures.

Following the final whistle, tributes poured in from across France, led by President Emmanuel Macron and captain Kylian Mbappé, both of whom paid emotional tribute to the coach who transformed French football over the past decade.

Macron Salutes “The Deschamps Generation”

French President Emmanuel Macron described Deschamps’ departure as the end of an unforgettable era, thanking the former midfielder for years of service to the nation.

“A page in the history of French football turns tonight.”

Macron praised the former World Cup-winning captain for creating unforgettable memories and restoring pride to French football.

“Thank you, Didier Deschamps, for the legendary victories, the intense emotions, for carrying our Bleus for years and making France thrill. Fourteen years: the Deschamps generation.”

His message reflected the widespread appreciation for a coach who not only won trophies but also rebuilt France into one of world football’s most consistent and respected national teams.

Mbappé Pens Emotional Farewell

France captain Kylian Mbappé, who has spent nearly his entire international career under Deschamps, shared an emotional tribute on social media shortly before the match.

Beginning with the words:

“Today is your last dance.”

Mbappé admitted the players wished they could have given their coach a more memorable farewell.

“You gave us so much. We should have offered you a better ending, but we failed.”

The Real Madrid forward acknowledged that many people had underestimated Deschamps’ achievements during his tenure.

“People haven’t always known how to appreciate your greatness, but time and history will take care of that.”

Mbappé also thanked the coach for believing in him from the beginning of his international career.

“Thank you for giving me the chance and opportunity to represent my country on the biggest stage for so many years. I feel privileged to have been able to stand alongside one of the greatest legends of our country, and I hold only excellent memories of everything we lived through and accomplished together.”

He concluded with a heartfelt message wishing Deschamps success in the next chapter of his career.

“France Will Miss Me”

Before taking charge of his final match, Deschamps admitted the occasion carried special emotion.

Speaking ahead of the England clash, he acknowledged that leaving the national team would be difficult after spending 14 years on the touchline.

“I know the France team will miss me.”

He also reminded his players that, despite missing out on the World Cup final, representing France remained a privilege.

“This is not the match we wanted to play, but we have a duty to give everything for France.”

A Legacy Few Can Match

Deschamps leaves behind one of the most decorated managerial records in international football.

Appointed France head coach in 2012, he transformed Les Bleus into a global powerhouse, leading the team to:

• 2018 FIFA World Cup champions
• 2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up
• UEFA Nations League title
• UEFA Euro 2016 runners-up
• Multiple World Cup and European Championship semi-final appearances.

His achievements added to an already legendary playing career, during which he captained France to both the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 titles.

By winning the World Cup as both player and coach, Deschamps joined one of football’s most exclusive clubs.

A New Chapter Begins

Although France’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment with defeat to England, the occasion became a celebration of Deschamps’ extraordinary contribution to French football.

For many supporters, his legacy extends far beyond trophies. Over 14 years, he rebuilt confidence, developed generations of talented players and ensured France remained among the world’s elite football nations.

As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Didier Deschamps leaves the France national team not only as one of its most successful coaches, but as one of the defining figures in the country’s football history.

England Beat France 6-4 to Clinch FIFA World Cup Third Place as Mbappé Sets New Scoring Record

England ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on a high note after defeating France 6-4 in a thrilling third-place playoff on Saturday, securing the bronze medal in one of the tournament’s most entertaining matches.

The victory was a fitting response from Thomas Tuchel’s side following the disappointment of their semi-final defeat to Argentina, as the Three Lions produced an attacking masterclass to overcome the 2022 runners-up in a game filled with goals, drama and individual brilliance.

England came into the contest determined to finish the tournament with a win and wasted little time asserting themselves. Their attacking play troubled the French defence throughout the match, with the Three Lions repeatedly exploiting spaces and converting their chances in a relentless offensive display.

France, however, refused to back down. Didier Deschamps’ men responded each time England threatened to pull away, turning the match into an end-to-end spectacle that delighted fans watching around the world.

Despite France’s fightback, England maintained their composure in the closing stages, adding crucial goals to secure an impressive 6-4 victory and claim third place at the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup.

While England celebrated a memorable win, much of the post-match attention also focused on France captain Kylian Mbappé, who once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of football’s biggest stars.

The 27-year-old found the net twice against England, taking his tally for the tournament to an astonishing 10 goals.

Those strikes also saw Mbappé reach 22 FIFA World Cup goals across his career, surpassing the previous mark held by Lionel Messi and becoming the competition’s all-time leading scorer.

The remarkable achievement adds another milestone to Mbappé’s already glittering international career. Having burst onto the global stage as a teenager at the 2018 World Cup, the French forward has continued to deliver on football’s biggest stage with remarkable consistency.

His latest record underlines his extraordinary goalscoring ability and further strengthens his place among the greatest players in World Cup history.

Although France ultimately fell short of victory, Mbappé’s clinical finishing ensured Les Bleus remained competitive throughout the encounter, with his brace serving as another reminder of his ability to influence the biggest matches.

For England, the victory offers encouragement ahead of future international competitions. After falling just short of reaching the World Cup final, Thomas Tuchel’s men responded positively, displaying resilience, attacking quality and determination to finish the tournament on a winning note.

The result also provides a morale boost for the England manager, who came under scrutiny following the semi-final loss to Argentina. Questions had been raised about his tactical decisions, but the emphatic win over France showcased the attacking potential within his squad.

Although England narrowly missed out on a place in the final, their third-place finish represents another deep run at a major tournament and offers optimism as preparations begin for the next European Championship.

For France, attention will now shift to rebuilding after missing out on a podium finish despite another outstanding tournament from Mbappé, whose individual brilliance once again stood out even in defeat.

The 6-4 scoreline will be remembered as one of the most entertaining matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, producing 10 goals, dramatic momentum swings and another historic chapter in Mbappé’s remarkable international career.

Tuchel Speaks Out After England’s Painful World Cup Exit, Addresses Tactics and Future

England manager Thomas Tuchel has admitted his side struggled to regain control after losing momentum in their 2-1 defeat to Argentina, a result that ended the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign at the semi-final stage.

Reflecting on the heartbreaking loss, Tuchel said Argentina capitalised on England’s difficult spell during the match.

“We couldn’t get any momentum back at all, and they took advantage of that,” he said.

The England boss also defended his tactical decisions after questions were raised about his substitutions during the game.

“As soon as you lose, you get criticised,” Tuchel said, insisting he does not believe his changes were wrong. However, he added that as manager, he is prepared to accept responsibility for every decision made during the match.

Despite the disappointment, Tuchel dismissed any uncertainty over his future and confirmed he remains committed to leading England.

“We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros, and I’m looking forward to that,” he said.

His remarks come as England begins to assess another major tournament exit, with attention already turning to the next European Championship. Tuchel will now be expected to rebuild confidence within the squad and prepare the team for the challenges ahead.

While England’s dream of reaching the World Cup final is over, the manager has made it clear that he remains focused on the long-term project and is determined to lead the Three Lions into the home European Championship.

Watch:

Argentina Fight Back Against England to Set Up Mouthwatering Final With Spain

Argentina produced a spirited comeback to defeat England 2-1 and book their place in the tournament final, where they will take on Spain in a blockbuster showdown for the title.

England made the brighter start and took the lead, putting Argentina under early pressure. However, the South Americans responded with determination, turning the game around with two well-taken goals to complete a dramatic comeback and end England’s hopes of reaching the final.

The victory highlights Argentina’s fighting spirit and extends their impressive run in the competition, as they now prepare for one final challenge.

Spain secured their place in the final after overcoming France in a high-quality semi-final encounter. The Spanish side displayed composure and attacking quality to see off the French and continue their pursuit of another major international trophy.

With both semi-finals delivering excitement, football fans can now look forward to a clash between two of the sport’s biggest nations. Argentina will be aiming to complete another memorable triumph, while Spain will be hoping to crown an impressive campaign with the championship.

The final is expected to feature some of the tournament’s standout performers and promises to be a battle between two teams that have shown resilience, quality and consistency throughout the competition.

After England and France fell at the semi-final stage, attention now turns to the much-anticipated showdown between Argentina and Spain, with both sides just one victory away from lifting the trophy.

Colombia FA Seeks Criminal Charges After Player Receives Death Threats Over World Cup Exit

 The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) has announced plans to pursue criminal action after Colombia international Jáminton Campaz and members of his family reportedly received death threats following the country’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup.

In a statement released on Friday, the federation condemned the threats and called on Colombia’s Attorney General’s Office to urgently identify those responsible and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

“The Executive Committee of the Colombian Football Federation expresses its full solidarity and support for Jáminton Campaz, his family, all the players of the Colombian national team and the entire delegation,” the federation said.

The threats emerged after Colombia’s heartbreaking 4-3 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 16 on July 8. Campaz came close to scoring a dramatic late equaliser during extra time after finding himself one-on-one with Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel but failed to convert the chance.

The missed opportunity proved costly as Colombia crashed out of the tournament, triggering emotional reactions from some supporters on social media.

According to reports, Campaz’s social media accounts were flooded with abusive messages and death threats, forcing his team to disable comments to protect him and his family.

The 26-year-old later addressed fans in an emotional Instagram post, expressing his disappointment over the team’s exit while insisting that neither he nor his teammates lacked commitment.

“I deeply regret not being able to bring you the joy we all hoped for, but I want you to know that there was never a lack of dedication, commitment, or love for this jersey,” Campaz wrote.

“I gave everything I had on the pitch, and I would do it a thousand times over for my country.”

Reports also suggest that Campaz did not travel back to Bogotá with the rest of the Colombian squad after the tournament, although his current whereabouts have not been officially confirmed.

The incident has renewed concerns about the growing abuse and threats directed at footballers on social media after major tournaments. The Colombian Football Federation said it remains committed to protecting its players and hopes those behind the threats will be identified and prosecuted.