Javier Mascherano

FIFA World Cup 2018, Novy Kapadia column: Explosive Round of 16 marks rise of new football superstar Kylian Mbappe

In the four-minute phase, from the 64th to the 68th minute, Mbappe's blistering pace, opportunism and sheer exuberance led to him scoring a brace and establishing himself as the new superstar of World football.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Kylian Mbappe's pace leaves Argentina's defence in tatters as France secure memorable win

On a night that should have been another waltz for Lionel Messi, ended up being a ceremonial passing of the baton to Kylian Mbappe, the scorer of two of France’s four goals, as the next world star.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Argentina's Javier Mascherano calls time on international career after tournament exit

Argentina's most-capped player Javier Mascherano called time on his international career on Saturday after the painful World Cup defeat to France.

FIFA World Cup 2018: France's Round of 16 clash against Argentina promises entertaining battle of counter-attacks

In the Round of 16 clash on Saturday, expect Argentina to have explicit instruction to try and get under the skin of this bustling with talent but inexperienced French side.

FIFA World Cup 2018: France must raise their game in Round of 16 clash against Lionel Messi's Argentina, says coach Didier Deschamps

France coach Didier Deschamps admitted his team must raise their game as they prepare to face Argentina and Lionel Messi in a World Cup last 16 clash on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup 2018: Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano insists that relations are not strained between coach and players

Argentinian midfielder Javier Mascherano has stated that relations between players and the coach Jorge Sampaoli have not become strained after a 3-0 loss to Croatia.

Argentina vs Iceland Highlights, FIFA World Cup 2018, Match 6 in Moscow: Iceland hold Argentina to 1-1 draw

Catch all the latest updates from Match No 6 of the FIFA World Cup between Argentina and Iceland

FIFA World Cup 2018: With a good blend of experience and youth, underachieving Argentina eye shot at redemption

Argentina’s chances of getting out of a group with Iceland, Croatia and Nigeria seem favourable. However, to expect them to have the organization to reach the last four seems a bit optimistic. Germany, France, Belgium and Spain have better quality in depth.

International friendlies: Lionel Messi warms up for World Cup by scoring hat-trick as Argentina beat Haiti

Lionel Messi got the opener from the penalty spot after 17 minutes. He doubled their lead 12 minutes into the second half with a simple tap-in after the goalkeeper could only parry a header, scored Argentina’s third after 65 minutes.

International friendlies: Argentina take on Italy to prepare for World Cup as Lionel Messi aims for redemption in Russia

FIFA World Cup 2014 was devastating to Lionel Messi as he missed a golden opportunity to put Argentina ahead in the final against Germany, who went on to win 1-0 in extra-time.