Croatia can outdo golden generation in Russia – Lovren

Dejan Lovren is confident Croatia’s current team can exceed the achievements of the iconic team that featured in the 1998 World Cup.

Neymar and the curious case of a Brazilian anti-hero

As the star of the World Cup’s traditional joyful side, Neymar has jarringly cast himself as a villain.

Matthaus predicts Brazil vs England World Cup final

World Cup winner Lothar Matthaus backed England to reach this year’s final, claiming Gareth Southgate’s side have a ‘high culture of playing football’.

Uruguay ready to face down Mbappe threat

Uruguay will be on alert to shut down France’s razor-sharp attacking talents in Friday’s keenly anticipated World Cup quarter-final.

England similar to Spain’s 2010 World Cup winners – Garcia

England’s team in Russia are similar to Spain’s World Cup winners of 2010, according to Luis Garcia.

Mourinho surprised by England theatrics against Colombia

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho was surprised by England’s antics against Colombia, criticising defender Harry Maguire for diving.

Uruguay v France: Laxalt backs daunting defence to deal with Mbappe

Diego Laxalt is confident Uruguay are strong enough as a defensive unit to deal with France forward Kylian Mbappe in Friday’s World Cup quarter-final.

Cavani will have to ‘destroy science’ to face France – Rami

Edinson Cavani will have to ‘destroy science’ if he is to feature for Uruguay in their World Cup quarter-final against France, according to Les Bleus defender Adil Rami.

Brazil would be easier to beat than Sweden – Eriksson

Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson is backing his native country Sweden to give Gareth Southgate’s men a seriously tough test when they meet in the World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday. 

Vardy to have groin injury assessed

England forward Jamie Vardy will have an assessment on a groin injury sustained in their World Cup last-16 penalty shoot-out win over Colombia.