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Gakpo, who scored three goals at the World Cup for the Netherlands, had previously been linked with a move to Liverpool's rivals Manchester United.

"PSV and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement on the proposed transfer of Cody Gakpo," PSV said in a statement.

"The 23-year-old attacker will leave for England imminently where he will be subjected to the necessary formalities ahead of the completion of the transfer."

PSV general manager Marcel Brands said the transfer fee would be a club record for the Dutch club.

According to reports, the fee could rise to as much as 50 million euros ($53 million, £44 million).

Gakpo's arrival is a further rejuvenation for Liverpool's frontline after the signings of Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez in the past year.

The Reds sit sixth in the Premier League, five points outside the top four places that secure qualification to the Champions League after a poor start to the season.

But Jurgen Klopp's men secured a third consecutive league win by beating Aston Villa 3-1 on the Premier League's return to action after the World Cup on Monday.

It is only a matter of hours before Al Nassr make Cristiano Ronaldo's signing official. 'AS' claimed that the player had decided to go to the Saudi club recently. They were just waiting for him to sign officially.

According to 'Marca', Al Nassr have reportedly already recognised the agreement. Therefore, he is one step closer, meaning we are just waiting for the official announcement.

This news source claim that his contract will be until 2030, but with a catch. The first two and a half seasons (until 2025) he will be playing for Al Nassr. After that, he will spend five seasons as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Greece for the 2030 World Cup.

As for his salary, Cristiano will earn €200 million, but not every season. It will be €200 million for the two years he spends there as a player, meaning he will earn €100 million per year.

When this is all confirmed, the Portuguese will have his future all sorted, which has been a real headache for him. Him signing for Al Nassr is imminent.

Time catches up with everyone, even the most talented and naturally gifted players. FIFA World Cup 2022 is no different, as several stars will likely be playing at their last-ever international tournament.

The FIFA World Cup in Qatar will be the end or at least the beginning of the end of a golden era in football. It is a footballing era that we will be very lucky to see again. They have been the standout players of their generation in the last two decades. They have topped goal-scoring and awards charts consistently over the years. Yet this world cup will see some of the biggest names in world football exit the international stage.

We have been blessed to have witnessed these players light up stadiums with their talent. We have also seen them stun opposition fans into silence with their skill. Yet, with age comes diminishing powers, reducing their once blistering pace. These players have undoubtedly cemented their legacy as some of the greatest talents football has ever seen. Still, FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar could be their swansong.

Here are some of the football greats who could be playing their final act in Qatar.

The FIFA World Cup in Qatar will be the end or at least the beginning of the end of a golden era in football. It is a footballing era that we will be very lucky to see again. They have been the standout players of their generation in the last two decades. They have topped goal-scoring and awards charts consistently over the years. Yet this world cup will see some of the biggest names in world football exit the international stage.

We have been blessed to have witnessed these players light up stadiums with their talent. We have also seen them stun opposition fans into silence with their skill. Yet, with age comes diminishing powers, reducing their once blistering pace. These players have undoubtedly cemented their legacy as some of the greatest talents football has ever seen. Still, FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar could be their swansong.

Here are some of the football greats who could be playing their final act in Qatar.

This Monday, the Real Madrid striker announced his retirement from his national side, France. This announcement comes the day after the 2022 World Cup came to a close.

Benzema was not able to play a part in this tournament after sustaining an injury before Les Bleus' first game of the competition, which ultimately forced him to leave the training camp, and leaving him without game time in Qatar.

His international career has been full of highs and lows, making his debut on the 28 March 2007, against Austria. He continued to play a part in subsequent tournaments, such as the 2010 World Cup, but appearances were blighted by controversies.

Before the 2016 Euros, it was announced that Benzema was not going to play any part in the squad, which was what similarly occured for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The Real Madrid player, who won the Ballon d'Or award in October, had been desperate to feature in Qatar having not been selected when France won the World Cup in Russia four years ago. He was frozen out of the France team for five and a half years because of his involvement in a blackmail scandal over a sextape involving his former teammate Mathieu Valbuena. In a trial last year he was handed a one-year suspended prison sentence and fined 75,000 euros.

For the Qatar World Cup, coach Didier Deschamps opted not to call up a replacement and France still had depth in their squad, particularly in an attack led by 23-year-old Kylian Mbappe.

Karim made his reappearance into the France squad in 2021 in time for the Euros 2020, which did not have the fairytale ending he had hoped for, as France were knocked out in the last-16 against Switzerland.

All in all, the talisman scored 37 goals in his international career, playing 97 times. This makes him one of the most successful French strikers of all time.

He announced it by saying "I made the effort and the mistakes it took to be where I am today and I'm proud of it! I wrote my story and ours ends".

20 years South America had to wait to win a World Cup again. After the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, four European teams had won the trophy before Argentina got their third World Cup in Qatar.

Brazil beat Germany 20 years ago in a match in which Ronaldo Nazario shone. Since then, Europe has always won it. In 2006, Fabio Cannavaro's Italy lifted the trophy in Germany.

Then, the 2010 World Cup in South Africa saw Spain win it thanks to Iniesta's extra-time goal against the Netherlands. Four years later, South America hosted the event, but Germany beat Argentina's Messi.

Then, in Russia, two European teams did battle as France played Croatia and France won the tournament for the second time thanks to a 4-2 win. After 20 years, the World Cup is back on South American soil thanks to Argentina's victory.

After constantly fighting for it, Messi has finally won a World Cup. Messi, who missed on winning the trophy in 2014, finally won the trophy he wanted with a victory over France on penalties in the 2022 final.

The Argentine, who scored two goals during the match and another one in the shootout, announce in the mixed zone that he would continue playing for Argentina. Shortly afterwards, he posted a message on social media.

"World champions! So many times I've dreamt about it, so much so that it still hasn't sunk in, I can't believe it," Messi said in a post which has received plenty of interactions.

"Thank you very much to my family, to all those who support me and also to those who believed in us. We are showing one more that the Argentinians, when we fight together and united, are capable of getting what we set out to do," he added.

Lastly, Messi concluded his message with these comments on his team. "The merit is of this group, which is above individuals. It is the strength of all of them fighting for the same dream which was also what all Argentinians wanted... We got it!", he concluded.

Real Madrid have already signed the next big star of Brazilian football. The club announced after 3pm on Tuesday the agreement whereby Endrick becomes a 'Merengues' player.

At 16 years of age, the striker will wear the Madrid jersey from July 2024, when he comes of age. He signs until 2027 with an option of three more years, that is, until 2030. Until he turns 18, he will play for Palmeiras, his current club.

The club made this clear in its official statement: "Real Madrid C. F., Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras, Endrick and his family have reached an agreement whereby the player will be able to join Real Madrid when he reaches the age of majority in July 2024. Until then, Endrick will continue his training at S. E. Palmeiras. The player will travel to Madrid in the coming days to visit our club's facilities".

The papers are already in the possession of both clubs and have been approved by FIFA. In addition, Endrick has already passed a part of the medical examination at Real Madrid.

Endrick will join the 'Blancos' for a maximum of 60 million euros, according to Fabrizio Romano. 35 of which are fixed, while the other 25 are variables.

A deferred signing
Endrick will not be able to land in Spain until 2024. This is due to the rule that prevents the signing of foreign players who are minors. So, when he turns 18, the striker will be able to travel to Madrid to play for the 'Blancos'.

At just 16 years of age, he has already been in the running to represent Brazil at the World Cup in Qatar, although Tite has preferred to opt for people with experience in professional football.

Palmeiras know they have a gem at their disposal, and that he is succeeding against players with much more experience. But Endrick is one of those players born to shine.

Alejandro Garnacho is one of Manchester United's biggest talents and is in an interesting situation. His contract expires this year and Real Madrid want to sign him. At the same time, the Argentine and Spanish national teams are competing for him: although Lionel Scaloni has already called him up a few times, he has not yet made his debut with the national team, which still gives him the option of opting for 'la Roja'.

Given this scenario, Fabrizio Romano, a journalist specialising in the transfer market, reported that the Red Devils intend to speed up negotiations for his renewal. Talks are already open, but, for the moment, they have not made much progress. The objective of the Red Devils board is to ensure his continuity and that of other future players such as Diogo Dalot or Marcus Rashford.

Strategically, the move is also aimed at keeping the 'Merengues' away from the talent. It is well known that 'Los Blancos' have more than enough financial strength to sign him, and they also have an attractive project in which the youth player could aspire to play in Champions League matches while fighting for La Liga. From a less flattering point of view, there is little chance of him being a starter in the short term.

Real Madrid have already signed another youngster who looks set to be a star of the future, Endrick, although this case is quite different. The Brazilian, who plays for Palmeiras, will not be able to leave his club until 2024, when he will be of age. Alejandro Garnacho, however, is already a regular in the Manchester United squad, with whom he has scored two goals and provided two assists in eight games.

Benfica, Enzo Fernandez's owner, aim to get 120 million euros for his hypothetical sale after the high level shown at the World Cup in Qatar 2022.

According to 'The Mirror', the sale of the Argentinian midfielder could be more than close. 'The Mirror' reported that Liverpool have reached a pre-agreement with the Portuguese side and the player himself.

A few days ago, Fabrizio Romano also revealed that the Reds and Real Madrid were following Enzo more closely.

Furthermore, in the event that the Argentine international is sold for the amount demanded by Benfica, River Plate would receive 25%. That is, a figure close to 30 million.

After three weeks of pulsating action in Qatar, just four teams are left standing as the tournament heads into its home stretch. Lionel Messi and Argentina face Croatia in the first semi-final on Tuesday, before 2018 champions France take on giant-killing Morocco on the following day. At the cavernous Lusail Stadium, Messi will attempt to guide Argentina into a World Cup final for the second time in eight years.

Messi, looking to crown his career with victory on football's biggest stage, was a pivotal figure in Friday's stormy quarter-final win over the Netherlands, when tempers on both sides flared and a record 18 yellow cards were shown. An ill-tempered contest ended with Argentine players appearing to taunt their distraught Dutch opponents before sprinting away to celebrate after a penalty shoot-out win.

Spain international Pablo Martin Paez Gavira, also known as 'Gavi', thanked coach Luis Enrique Martinez, as the Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed in an official statement that he was stepping down as Spain coach.

"Thank you very much for trusting and believing in me in the Spanish national team!," Gavi wrote on his social media.

The Barcelona striker emphasised that Luis Enrique "gave everything for the national team" and, as a result, the players will be "always grateful" to him.

"I wish you luck and success in the future. You gave your all for the team and we will always be grateful to you," Gavi concluded.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi spoke to 'Sky Sports' and he talked about Marcus Rashford's interest in the transfer window.

"He's another really amazing player. And for free? Any club would run after him to get him for free, definitely. We didn't hide it, we spoke to him and we had interest, but it wasn't a good moment. Maybe summer, why not?

"Let him focus on the World Cup. If we are interested in January, we will talk to him," Al-Khelaifi concluded.

Since Ten Hag's arrival on the Manchester United bench, the striker has improved his performances in the Premier League. In addition, the player is doing well for England at the World Cup in Qatar, where he has scored three goals.

Endrick will play at Real Madrid. The journalist Fabrizio Romano assured that there is a verbal agreement between Palmeiras and the Spanish club for his signing. Ancelotti's side are willing to pay 72 million euros. However, Florentino Perez may want to reinforce his squad even further.

According to 'Relevo', Madrid are keeping an eye on Man Utd striker Alejandro Garnacho, as his contract with Ten Hag's side expires in 2023 and, for the moment, he has not renewed.

Nevertheless, the English team will try to renew him at all costs but it is up to the player to decide on his future.

The same media outlet reports that Garnacho would be interested in playing for Madrid. Moreover, the striker has family in the Spanish capital.

Joan Laporta and his board are clear that Barcelona will not be messed around. The recent controversies show that the club do not have problems in complaining and will go until the very end with something they consider unfair.

That is what they felt about Lewandowski's suspension. He was sent off against Osasuna and was issued with a three match ban for supposedly disrespecting the referee.

According to 'Marca', Barcelona believe that the Polish striker's punishment was too harsh. At the same time, they do not think it is fair that Ancelotti got off scot free when he said that Real Madrid only got a draw against Girona because of an "invented penalty".

Another issue that Barca are upset about is the salary cap imposed by La Liga. The club believe that La Liga president Javier Tebas should have shown "greater flexibility" last summer.

Barcelona, like Real Madrid, will not attend the La Liga assembly in Dubai. They do not have any presence in UEFA either as they are against the European Super League project.

And if that were not enough, their Champions League elimination has caused more tension with UEFA, partly because of the bad refereeing they suffered at the Giuseppe Meazza in the important clash with Inter Milan.

Joan Laporta and his board are clear that Barcelona will not be messed around. The recent controversies show that the club do not have problems in complaining and will go until the very end with something they consider unfair.

That is what they felt about Lewandowski's suspension. He was sent off against Osasuna and was issued with a three match ban for supposedly disrespecting the referee.

According to 'Marca', Barcelona believe that the Polish striker's punishment was too harsh. At the same time, they do not think it is fair that Ancelotti got off scot free when he said that Real Madrid only got a draw against Girona because of an "invented penalty".

Another issue that Barca are upset about is the salary cap imposed by La Liga. The club believe that La Liga president Javier Tebas should have shown "greater flexibility" last summer.

Barcelona, like Real Madrid, will not attend the La Liga assembly in Dubai. They do not have any presence in UEFA either as they are against the European Super League project.

And if that were not enough, their Champions League elimination has caused more tension with UEFA, partly because of the bad refereeing they suffered at the Giuseppe Meazza in the important clash with Inter Milan.

Barcelona are still in tension with La Liga after a summer when their signings were the main story. Now, the league have made it clear to the club that they cannot sign anyone in January because they would bust their wage limit, something which the Catalan side want to fix.

Despite not being further from the reality, the side are still very switched on to the transfer window despite this difficulty. According to 'Sport', the Catalan side are following Martinelli's World Cup very closely.

Xavi and his team like the Brazilian forward a lot. What is more, the Arsenal winger's contract ends in 2024 and he could be a good signing for the next transfer windows if he does not sign an extension.

The same source claimed that his contract extension with The Gunners is in the works, but until there is a signature on paper, nothing can be considered closed. The English club's idea is to extend his deal until 2028.

The World Cup in Qatar is helping Jude Bellingham to confirm his status as one of the most in-form midfielders of the moment. At just 19 years of age, it is safe to say that he is one of the best, perhaps the best, in the English national team. That is why Borussia Dortmund's plans to sell him for around 150 million euros, if he has to be sold, have been strengthened.

This starting price is not new. It was reported in the press about a month ago. It's just that, at the time, the youngster was not yet playing in the World Cup, who have been the scene of back-to-back stellar performances. Against Senegal in the Round of 16, for example, he not only had a superb night, but also provided one of the assists that helped his side to a 3-0 win.

According to the newspaper 'Marca', Real Madrid, who are one of the main suitors for the former Birmingham City player, do not intend to put on the table the 150 million asked. The reason is that they do not want to jeopardise the economic stability of an entity that has been doing very well for some time to maintain their financial situation even in times of coronavirus. The most recent big investments were made for Camavinga and Tchouameni.

This clears the way for Manchester City and Liverpool, who are the other Bellingham supporters who have been the most talked about of late. The Sky Blues, of course, have already carried out a titanic operation when they secured Erling Haaland's signing, so perhaps now is the time for the Reds to take a step forward and, after the addition of Darwin Nunez, also for huge sums, sign another giant transfer.

According to 'Marca', Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Nassr is done. The ex-Manchester United man will be in the squad from 1st January 2023. The newspaper claim that the agreement is done between all parties so that the number 7 spends two and a half seasons in a distant league, where he will earn around €500 million, as his salary will be around €200 million per season.

Very well known journalist and expert in the market Fabrizio Romano also released an offer from the club in question a few days ago, but without mentioning if everything was agreed. The Italian also mentioned the astronomical figures linked to the image rights which will have to be signed on an administrative level to make the transfer viable, and claims that, for now, the case is not closed. He retweeted to himself after the new article by 'Marca'.

This has all come a little after the 'Mirror' leaked that the star had not decided to head to the exotic destination, which he considered too far from the big leagues, where he wanted to stay not long ago. If it gets confirmed, he will not be able to play in the Champions League, the best competition one can play without counting those played with your national side, which may weigh heavily on his list of priorities.

The British press put Chelsea as a big favourite to get Cristiano, and were on alert that signing for Al-Nassr could fall apart and they would go for him. This scenario is the worst one possible for Manchester United, who did not want him going to a fellow Premier League rival, but they did not have much choice but to let him go after he criticised the Red Devils on every level in a controversial interview.

Like almost every major market report in the world of football, there are several rumours about Cristiano Ronaldo's next team. First, the newspaper 'Marca' reported that he had given the go-ahead to an offer from Al-Nassr for him to earn around 500 million euros in two and a half seasons. Now, 'Mirror' claims that it is not so clear and that Chelsea are still hopeful of signing him.

Todd Boehly, the chief at Stamford Bridge, is interested in the Portuguese. He would love him to be part of his project, where he wants him to feel at home and valued. This is exactly what was not provided for him, at least according to him, at Old Trafford, where he ended up leaving Manchester United. That is why he is a free agent.

In the heart of the Red Devils, it would be horrible for the Blues to sign him. Moreover, they would have to see him as a rival in the Premier League. This is the reason why the Mancunian club constantly tried to postpone the departure of the '7', which became inevitable after he criticised the club at all levels in a revealing and controversial interview with Piers Morgan. In the aftermath, the board sped up his departure.

'The Mirror' adds that Cristiano Ronaldo is not closing doors, so if Chelsea want to make him an offer, he will consider it. It is well known the hunger he has always shown to aspire to the top despite being close to retirement, so we should not rule out the possibility that he will surprise everyone and continue in the `Premier League... but to play for one of United's biggest rivals.

It is common for Real Madrid to use World Cups as an opportunity to test the most important talents on the planet. It happened with James, Modric and other players who ended up being important at the club. Now, it looks like Enzo Fernandez could be next. It has already come to light that the scouts at the Santiago Bernabeu are following him and 'El Debate' is even saying what options are being considered to carry out the operation.

Benfica, his owner, are looking to get 120 million euros for his hypothetical transfer. The 'Merengues' do not want to offer more than 80 and do not rule out putting on the table 70 plus the transfer of Reinier, who gave much to talk about when he landed in Spain from Flamengo, but who, so far, has not got space in Carlo Ancelotti's line-ups. He is currently on loan at Girona.

It makes sense that the Madrid side do not want to spend so much money on this front. Lately, they have only done so when they have been sure that their investment will pay off. For example, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, both of whom are highly promising and will provide 'Los Blancos' with a guaranteed generational replacement for Toni Kroos and Luka Modric unless they suffer an unexpected slump.

Enzo Fernandez, unconcerned by these reports, be they about Real Madrid or about any other suitors, is focused on trying to win the World Cup in Qatar with Argentina. Against Poland, at the end of the group stage, he provided an assist and, against Australia, in the round of 16, he had the misfortune to deflect a shot from Goodwin that ended up in the back of the net of 'Dibu Martinez'.

Argentina qualified for the next round after a very easy win over Poland. Argentina dominated the contest from start to finish and would have led at the interval had Messi's penalty not been saved by goalkeeper Szczesny. It was the 31st penalty the PSG man had missed in his career. Scaloni's side took the lead moments into the second period through Alexis Mac Allister and then Julian Alvarez got the second after 68 minutes. Poland never looked like scoring and the fact Mexico only beat Saudi Arabia 2-1 meant they progressed on goal difference.

Poland offered little attacking threat, with star striker Robert Lewandowski virtually anonymous throughout. Instead it was left to Szczesny to take centre stage for the Poles, denying Messi with two crucial early stops. First Messi wriggled clear of a pack of defenders before producing a shot that flew straight at the keeper. Then he found space to charge into the Polish box down the left, forcing Szczesny to make a save at his near post.

Argentina continued to create the better chances in the first half and Marcos Acuna flashed a shot wide after Alvarez had also gone close to breaking the deadlock. Szczesny had to scramble to stop Angel di Maria scoring direct from a corner, before the goalkeeper was again called into action to deny Alvarez.

Szczesny outdid himself when he dived to his left to stop Messi's penalty in the 39th minute. He still had more to do before the half-time whistle, punching away a shot from Alvarez before saving the follow-up from Rodrigo de Paul. There was nothing he could do when Mac Allister broke the deadlock less than a minute after the interval. Nahuel Molina charged down the right, then cut the ball back for Mac Allister to drill just beyond Szczesny's reach.

The goal forced Poland to show some belated attacking ambition and Kamil Glik headed just wide from a free-kick almost immediately after the restart. Argentina continued to go in search of more goals and Alvarez scored their second after combining well with Enzo Fernandez. Fernandez, making his first start for Argentina, picked out his team-mate, who held off a defender before lashing the ball past Szczesny.

Poland were still walking a tightrope with yellow cards potentially crucial to their chances of reaching the last 16. Grzegorz Krychowiak went into the book in the 83rd minute but a late goal for Saudi Arabia against Mexico saw the Poles safely through on goal difference.

Cristiano Ronaldo is about to call time on his career in the big leagues. After terminating his contract with Manchester United following a controversial interview in which he said he felt betrayed by the club, Marca reports that he has said "yes" to an offer from Al-Nassr. The offer would see him earn more than 400 million euros in a matter of two and a half seasons.

The newspaper mentioned in the previous paragraph claims that the agreement is 200 million per season and that the Portuguese will commit himself for two and a half years, so a simple mathematical operation is enough to know how much he will earn. It should be exactly 500 million, but it must be taken into account that part of his earnings will come from advertising and, therefore, may be subject to changes that make him earn more or less.

The financial aspect has been key in convincing the Portuguese, who is currently playing in the World Cup in Qatar with his national team. This may be the last time he takes part in the most coveted international tournament of all, which fits with the fact that he will opt to leave the most important competitions of Europe.

If this agreement between Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr is confirmed, CR7 will become the main attraction of Saudi Arabian football and will help a lot to boost it. It would also show the financial power of the teams in this league, capable of putting exorbitant sums on the table to sign a legend who looks like he will never again experience those magical Champions League nights to which he made the world used to.

Undoubtedly, one of the most influential people in the world of football is Nasser Al-Khelaifi. The PSG president gave an interview to 'Marca' in which he reviewed topics such as the current situation at his club, Mbappe's future and the recent World Cup in Qatar.

"It is incredible to have the World Cup in Qatar and in this location. It brings the whole region together across cultures and languages, ages and religions. All the people here are very proud to welcome the world to Qatar. It is also for the families, there is no hostile atmosphere and no problems with the public like you see in Europe," he said.

He went on to talk about the nation: "We are not perfect, we have made mistakes, like everyone else, but we have developed as a nation and a society. What frustrates me is that people talk about Qatar and have never been to Qatar. I don't understand it. They have to come here to see for themselves. All the Qatari people are proud and honoured to welcome the world.

"I will say it again, we are not perfect, but we are good people, we are nice, we welcome people, we care about them. Remember we are a small nation, so friendship is important. In any case, we will maintain our goodwill and look forward in a positive way," he said when asked about human rights.

He was also asked about a hypothetical exit from PSG: "It makes me laugh, I don't know if I should answer this question really, because it seems like a joke to me, doesn't it? This is just the beginning for QSI and PSG and everything we are doing. We are about to enter a second phase where we will see incredible growth".

"Every month, every week and even every day I have to respond to this. He has just renewed his contract and we are all happy. The team hasn't lost a game all season, we've already reached 100 games in a row by selling out," he stressed about Mbappe.

Finally, he criticised the Superliga again: "The truth is that I feel sad for them because they have shown time and time again that they don't understand football and its ecosystem. Football is not a legal contract, it is a social contract. Football is a link between clubs and players, between players and fans, between fans and communities. That will never change.

Portugal edged past Uruguay in an exciting World Cup encounter. After a quiet first half which saw Uruguay's Bentancur come the closest to a goal, the second half was much more open. Portugal scored in the 54th minute through Bruno Fernandes. After the goal, Uruguay charged forward and brought on Pellistri, Luis Suarez and De Arrascaeta. Pellistri came the closest when he struck a post while Suarez and De Arrascaeta also had opportunities, but Uruguay were unable to get an equaliser. Then, Fernandes made it two for Portugal after a wrongly awarded penalty for handball.

The match at Doha's spectacular 89,000-capacity Lusail Stadium also featured the first pitch invader of the Qatar tournament - the man carried messages of support for Ukraine and Iranian women and had a rainbow flag. With Portugal already through, Uruguay must now beat Ghana in their final Group H match to stand any chance of also progressing.

Both sides made three changes from their opening matches, with Portugal bringing in veteran Pepe for the injured Danilo Pereira, who suffered cracked ribs in training. Pepe became the third-oldest outfield player in World Cup history. Portugal dominated the first half, hogging the ball and creating several chances, but without ever testing Uruguay goalkeeper Sergio Rochet. Uruguay's forwards, Edinson Cavani and Darwin Nunez were starved of the ball but the South Americans still had the best opportunity of the first period.

Rodrigo Bentancur picked the ball up in his own half and surged forwards, slipping between two defenders to find himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Diogo Costa, who spread himself well to save the midfielder's shot. Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo was largely anonymous in the first 45 minutes but did delight fans with a shoulder pass to pick out William Carvalho, who volleyed over.

The main drama came after the break. Moments after a pitch invader ran onto the pitch carrying an LGBTQ rainbow flag and with a message supporting Ukraine and Iranian women on his T-shirt, only to be spectacularly tackled by security, Portugal went in front.

Fernandes created space for himself on the left and curled an inswinging cross into the mixer, with Ronaldo breaking the offside trap to attempt a glancing header. As the ball nestled in the goal, Ronaldo wheeled away in celebration but FIFA decided he had not touched the ball, thus denying him a ninth World Cup goal, which would have put him level with Portuguese great Eusebio.

Uruguay coach Diego Alonso threw on forwards Maxi Gomez and Luis Suarez as the South Americans belatedly began to exert some pressure, and both came close to an equaliser. Gomez's rasping drive from 20 yards came back off the post with Costa beaten, while Suarez hit the side netting from close range.

With the 90 minutes almost up, Fernandes nutmegged Gimenez, whose trailing hand diverted the ball away from the midfielder and prevented him from finding himself one-on-one with Rochet. Iranian referee Alireza Faghani awarded the spot-kick after a VAR check and Fernandes sent Rochet the wrong way after his signature hop, skip run-up. He then almost completed a hat-trick but hit the post from 20 yards.

After dominating the opening passages of the first half, South Korea saw themselves down by two goals to nil at half-time. Ghana's first was brought to them by Southampton-man Salisu, after a messy free-kick was rammed home. Next up on the score sheet was Kudus, after his slight touch on the cross was enough to send it past Kim.

The second half brought a South Korea domination for the most part, which brought them back to 2-2 thanks to two Cho headers. Their efforts were soon wiped out by Ghana's on-form Kudus, as he simply tapped home after Ayew missed the cross.

Mohammed Salisu opened the scoring against the run of play midway through the first half at Education City Stadium and Ajax midfielder Kudus doubled the Black Stars' lead. But the Asian side, who looked toothless in the first half, roared back after the break, pulling level through a quickfire double from forward Cho Gue-sung either side of the hour mark. Ghana looked shell-shocked as the Korean fans celebrated wildly but they were back in front in the 68th minute when Kudus finished calmly at the back post after Inaki Williams failed to connect with a cross from the left.

The result takes Ghana into second in Group H on three points. Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal will have six points and secure qualification for the last 16 if they beat Uruguay in the later kick-off in Qatar. Despite their efforts, South Korea look likely to crash out of the tournament at the group stage for the third straight World Cup. The Asian side, captained by Son Heung-min, were quicker to settle, forcing a succession of corners as they dominated possession but they were unable to fashion a shot on target in the entire first half.

Son looked uncomfortable in the black face mask he is wearing after having surgery for a facial injury he suffered while playing for Spurs, constantly readjusting it. Ghana, who lost their opener 3-2 to Portugal, struggled to gain a foothold in the game. But the match totally changed complexion in the 24th minute when the impressive Jordan Ayew, playing down the left for Ghana, swung in a cross following a free-kick.

South Korea failed to clear and Southampton centre-back Salisu finished with his left foot, sparking wild scenes of celebration among the Ghana fans decked out in red, white and green. The goal revitalised the African nation, who reached the quarter-finals in 2010, with South Korea struggling to deal with their physicality and direct approach.

Now playing with flair and confidence, Ghana poured forward and doubled their lead in the 34th minute when Kudus powered a header home after a pin-point Jordan Ayew cross from the left. Captain Andre Ayew - the brother of Jordan - called his men into a team huddle on the pitch and the players got soaked by the sprinklers before they went off for their half-time beak. The Koreans at last produced an effort on target in the 53rd minute, when goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi punched away a header from Cho.

But the Korean found the net just minutes later, heading home a cross from substitute Lee Kang-in, who had just been brought on by Bento. And they were level just three minutes later when Cho headed home Kim Jin-su's ball from the left, sparking scenes of delirium among the Korean fans. Now Ghana were rocking but they restored their lead midway through the second half through Kudus.

South Korea came back again. Zigi was forced into a scrambling save to push away a free-kick while Salisu cleared off the line. The fourth official held up a board for 10 minutes of added time. South Korea continued to pour forward but they could not find the net and a number of their players collapsed to the turf at the final whistle. Bento was sent off for protesting at the end of the match.

Rigobert Song's team looked almost dead and buried after goals from Strahinja Pavlovic, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Aleksandar Mitrovic gave Serbia a 3-1 lead early in the second half. But substitute Vincent Aboubakar and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting snatched a draw with two quick-fire strikes just after the hour mark to leave both Cameroon and Serbia on a single point, two behind group leaders Brazil and Switzerland.

Had they lost, Cameroon would have been relying on the Swiss beating Brazil in order to not be eliminated with a game to spare, but instead the west Africans still have a chance of getting out of the group stage for the first time since 1990. Cameroon have a tough task ahead as they play Brazil in their final match, which according to reports they will play without first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana who was dropped from the matchday squad just hours before kick-off following an unspecified disciplinary issue.

Media reports suggest that Onana has been sent home from the World Cup after a disagreement with Song, but that pre-match turmoil didn't stop Cameroon putting in a fighting display against a Serbia team who probably deserved to win on the balance of play. Mitrovic was almost invisible in Serbia's defeat to Brazil but here he was involved from kick-off, the Fulham forward unlucky not to give Serbia the lead in the 11th minute when he crashed a shot off the post from a tight angle following a neat exchange of passes with Dusan Tadic.

Pumas right-back Dani Alves played between 2017 and 2019 at PSG. He coincided with Kylian Mbappe and Neymar but not with Messi, who arrived at the Parc des Princes in the summer of 2021.

The Brazilian player gave an interview to 'La Gazzetta dello Sport' and he spoke about Mbappe: "He is an incredible player who has not yet understood that those who play in attack are more incredible than he is. Neymar and Messi are unique. They see and do things that no one else sees or can do.

"A great player must always know and understand who he is playing with. Your teammates enrich your qualities. You have to be smart to take advantage of the potential of Neymar and Messi, as they are two football stars," Alves added.

He also spoke about his experience at PSG: "I handled the ball well but when I played with Neymar, I gave it to him. If Mbappe gave the ball to those two, they would score 150 goals."

Cristiano Ronaldo is looking for a club. Man Utd announced on Tuesday that his contract had been terminated after his explosive comments in an interview. He said, amongst other things, that he felt betrayed by the club and that he did not respect Erik ten Hag.

With the number 7 now out of Old Trafford, there was speculation over the Portuguese's next destination. Some would be delighted to see him back at Real Madrid, but that is not going to be possible.

'AS' says that Madrid have not considered and will not bring Cristiano Ronaldo back. "It wouldn't make sense with our sporting project," club sources told 'AS'.

Despite the fact Cristiano could go to Madrid on a free, it is not an option on the table. The club are clear that they already have the best striker possible: Karim Benzema.

Recent injuries which Benzema has suffered has led to some thinking that the team need a reliable substitute. Real Madrid, however, stress that the number 9's recovery is going well and they are confident that he will keep on playing fantastically as he was during until he got injured.

Madrid are more than satisfied with the Ballon d'Or winner. The pair played together a few years ago at Real Madrid, but then, Benzema was in Cristiano's shadow. He will not have a second spell with their roles reversed. Madrid have completely ruled out going for the attacker, who will have to choose between many other clubs who will fight to get him.

Spain dominated a first half which saw them cruise to a deserved three goal lead. Dani Olmo opened his and Spain's account for this World Cup after a wonderful move, leaving him the easy job of slotting it past Navas. Asensio was next to add to the tally, as he calmly slotted home off a Jordi Alba cross. Alba then aided for the third, as he was fouled in the penalty area, leaving Ferran Torres the simplest of tasks of converting the spot-kick.

The second half brought much of the same, with the Europeans dominating start to finish. There were three more goals to be had in the half, with Torres adding to his collection, and then Gavi getting Spain's deserved fifth. Soler then added the sixth after some sloppy keeping from Navas, before Morata deservedly getting on the score-sheet..

This win leaves Spain top of Group E, level with Japan on points, but ahead on goal difference. They await Germany in their next game which promises to be a mouth-watering tie, with the Germans desperately needing a win. Costa Rica find themselves bottom, with Japan to play next.

Avoiding the fate of giants Argentina and group rivals Germany, who lost 2-1 to Japan earlier on, Luis Enrique's fancied side sparkled at Doha's Al Thumama Stadium, dominating possession and taking their chances mercilessly. Ferran Torres netted twice and Marco Asensio, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Carlos Soler and Alvaro Morata were also on the scoresheet for the Euro 2020 semi-finalists in an emphatic romp.

In the past the 2010 World Cup winners have paid the price for profligacy but all three forwards Luis Enrique selected netted in the first half to pay back his trust in them. The coach placed Asensio at false nine, flanked by Olmo and Torres, starting with Morata and Ansu Fati on the bench. The coach opted to deploy Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez in central defence, alongside club team-mate Aymeric Laporte, correctly anticipating his team would monopolise the ball.

It took only 11 minutes for La Roja to open the scoring, with Gavi stabbing a pass forward for Olmo to receive in the area and the RB Leipzig winger taking one sublime touch to turn and another to stroke the ball gently past Keylor Navas. Costa Rica, who were a surprise package at the 2014 World Cup, beating Italy and Uruguay and drawing with England to top their group, were sliced apart again for the second goal 10 minutes later.

Jordi Alba's low drilled cross was rammed home by Real Madrid forward Asensio past his former team-mate Navas, who might have done more to keep it out. Torres stroked home from the penalty spot after Alba was fouled by Oscar Duarte - a soft call on a hard night for Los Ticos, who were never in the game and failed to muster a shot at goal. Barcelona forward Torres capitalised on more slack defending to fire the fourth past Navas early in the second half.

Luis Enrique was able to take off the effervescent Pedri and Torres before the hour mark in order to rest them for Sunday's clash with Germany, and handed teenage Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde his debut. The 19-year-old roared up the pitch in the build-up to Spain's fifth goal, with substitute Morata crossing for Gavi to drill home with aplomb.

Kopa Trophy winner Gavi became the third youngest goalscorer at a World Cup at 18 years and 110 days old, after Mexico's Manuel Rosas and record holder Pele. Soler and Morata then got in on the act with stoppage-time strikes to pile further misery on Costa Rica and help Spain flex their muscles in a perfect opening match in Qatar.

The veteran Portugal forward set the stage for his Old Trafford exit last week with an outspoken interview on TalkTV, in which he said he felt "betrayed" by the club and had no respect for new manager Erik ten Hag.

There was clearly no way back for Ronaldo and United issued a statement on Tuesday confirming they were parting ways with one of the greatest players in their history by "mutual agreement, with immediate effect".

Ronaldo, currently at the World Cup in Qatar, issued a statement of his own, declaring his love for the club and saying it "feels like the right time" to seek a new challenge. As well as lashing out against United and Ten Hag, the 37-year-old was scathing about the club's unpopular US owners in his interview with Piers Morgan.

Ronaldo said the Glazer family, who loaded the club with huge debts when they bought it in 2005, cared more about the money-making potential of United than results. Hours after the statement confirming Ronaldo was exiting the club, United issued another bulletin saying the Americans were considering selling up.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, who played alongside Ronaldo at United, said both parties had got what they wanted. "Cristiano obviously did that interview with the mindset that he wasn't happy and wanted to get out of the club," Ferdinand told the BBC. "He made that very clear. I think Erik ten Hag got what he wanted in this situation as well. Both parties are happy and we can move on."

The Portuguese footballer said that he felt betrayed by Manchester United and emphasised that he does not respect Erik ten Hag.

After Ronaldo's controversial interview with Piers Morgan, the English side said that they would "initiate appropiate steps" and these have already arrived.

Manchester United confirmed his departure on their Twitter account: "Cristiano Ronaldo is to leave Manchester United by mutual agreement, with immediate effect," they wrote.

Nevertheless, Ten Hag's side also thanked the Portuguese striker for his contributions: "The club thanks him for his immense contribution across two spells at Old Trafford."

Now, Ronaldo will have to look for a new destination after the World Cup as he is a free agent after being kicked-out.