Trending Middle East

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• More Gulf strikes, Iraq power threat and India bars sailors from strait 17.07.2026 3хв

  The latest phase of the conflict between the US and Iran enters its seventh consecutive day as Iran launches new missile and drone attacks across the Gulf, while the US carries out another round of strikes on Iranian military targets. Tehran also says no oil or gas will be exported through the Strait of Hormuz for as long as the attacks continue. India suspends the deployment of its seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz after deadly attacks on commercial shipping, with injured sailors from two UAE-operated tankers continuing to receive treatment in the Emirates. Iraq warns it could lose enough electricity to power at least one million homes after Dana Gas suspends operations at the Khor Mor gasfield because of security threats. We also examine the latest US-backed negotiations between Lebanon and Israel, where military talks are expected to continue before proposed security zones in southern Lebanon can move forward. Elsewhere, rising gang violence in northern Sudan highlights growing security concerns as the country's civil war continues. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: The Malvinas banner, Bellingham flashpoint and race for the Golden Boot 17.07.2026 4хв

  The build-up to Sunday's World Cup final has been overshadowed by two controversies from the semi-final between Argentina and England. Several Argentina players displayed a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas", which means "the Falklands are Argentinian", after the final whistle. Fifa's stadium code prohibits political messages and the governing body's disciplinary committee is reviewing the incident. But Argentina's place in final against Spain is not at risk. England midfielder Jude Bellingham also faces possible disciplinary action after slapping Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head after the South American team's semi-final triumph. Fifa has yet to decide whether to charge Bellingham and a ban could rule him out of Saturday's third-place play-off against France. Meanwhile, Spain's Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately on Thursday as a precaution, but are both expected to be available for the final. US President Donald Trump is to attend the showpiece match at MetLife Stadium and, alongside Fifa president Gianni Infantino, will present the trophy after the final whistle. The Golden Boot race is level heading into the decisive final weekend. Argentina's Lionel Messi and France striker Kylian Mbappe are both on eight goals, with Messi ahead on assists as the tiebreaker. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Greater Tunb struck, US approves arms for Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, and Museum of the Future set for revamp 16.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the regional war reaches occupied UAE territory after US forces strike Iranian military positions on Greater Tunb. The UAE island was seized by Tehran in 1971. Washington says the operation struck coastal defence systems and other military infrastructure to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Jordan and Kuwait report intercepting renewed Iranian attacks. We also examine Washington’s approval of nearly $2.5 billion in new military equipment sales to Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. In Rome, Lebanon and Israel make progress in their US-backed negotiations, agreeing to advance the plan for pilot security zones in southern Lebanon while technical talks continue. We also look at new US transparency rules that could force Gulf family offices investing in activist campaigns on Wall Street to reveal their identities for the first time. And Dubai’s Museum of the Future prepares for its biggest transformation since opening, with every major exhibition set to be replaced before a relaunch in early 2027. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Argentina produce another late miracle to set up Spain final 16.07.2026 4хв

  Argentina are in the World Cup final after beating England 2-1 in Atlanta, scoring twice in the final minutes in another example of the late comebacks that have defined their tournament. Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but Thomas Tuchel's decision to drop deep and protect the lead proved costly. From Gordon's goal until Argentina's equaliser, England had only 12 per cent possession. Enzo Fernandez made it 1-1 with a long-range strike in the 85th minute before Lionel Messi created the winner in stoppage time, crossing for Lautaro Martinez to head in. Argentina face Spain in Sunday's World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. Kick off is 11pm in the UAE. Tuchel accepted responsibility for England's approach, saying the team were not active enough. Harry Kane acknowledged England struggled to keep the ball after scoring, repeating a pattern from previous tournaments. In Paris, police made 98 arrests following disorder after France's semi-final defeat by Spain, which coincided with Bastille Day. The third-place play-off against England will be Didier Deschamps' final match as France coach after 14 years. He won the World Cup in 2018 and has reached three consecutive semi-finals. Zinedine Zidane is widely expected to replace him. The third-place play-off is in Miami on Saturday local time, kicking off at 1am on Sunday in the UAE. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• US and Iran trade further strikes, traffic slows in Strait of Hormuz and Abu Dhabi invests in US gas 15.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, the conflict between the US and Iran shows no sign of easing as they exchange another round of strikes. The latest American attacks targeted Iran's military infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz, while Tehran launched strikes on US-linked sites in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. We also examine the growing effects of the escalation on global shipping as only a handful of vessels sail through the strait. UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh tells The National that diplomacy remains the best path to reopening one of the world's most important trade routes. We also look at efforts to reduce the region's reliance on the waterway, as the US backs plans to revive the Iraq-Syria oil pipeline and President Donald Trump signals major energy deals with Baghdad. In Rome, Lebanese and Israeli negotiators take part in US-backed talks aimed at implementing last month's ceasefire. Disagreements over "pilot zones" in southern Lebanon remain at the centre of discussions. And Abu Dhabi's 2PointZero strengthens its global energy ambitions with a $2.25 billion acquisition of a major US natural gas company, expanding its presence in one of the world's largest energy markets. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Spain's tactical masterclass sends them to final as England meet Argentina tonight 15.07.2026 5хв

  Spain are in the World Cup final after beating France 2-0 in Dallas – producing one of the most complete performances of the tournament to reach the showpiece. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne, before Pedro Porro added a second goal in the second half. But the wider story was how Spain neutralised France's attack. Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola managed only three shots on target between them. Spain's midfield, anchored by Rodri, was dominant throughout. France head coach Didier Deschamps faces questions about his tactical choices after starting four attackers against a Spain side built to dominate possession. Mbappe said France failed to press high as planned. Rayan Cherki was more direct, saying France were beaten technically, tactically and in the duels. Deschamps is due to step down after the tournament. Spain are to face England or Argentina in Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium. Tonight, England face Argentina at 11pm UAE time in Atlanta. The match carries the weight of history, from Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal in 1986 to David Beckham's red card in 1998. Argentina's team have been filmed singing about the Malvinas and Maradona, as well as Lionel Messi, who is playing in what is expected to be his final World Cup. In other news, Fifa is expected to wait until after the tournament to decide whether to take action against coaches and players who criticised referees. England manager Thomas Tuchel, Switzerland player Manuel Akanji and Egypt coach Hossam Hassan have all made remarks about officials during the tournament. Meanwhile, the World Cup final half-time show is expected to run for 20 to 25 minutes, with Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber and Burna Boy among the names linked to the performance. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Strait of Hormuz attacks escalate, Gulf region on alert and EU unveils Gaza recovery plan 14.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, hostilities across the Gulf escalate again after Iranian missiles strike two UAE supertankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one sailor and injuring eight. The attacks follow a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while President Donald Trump proposes a 20 per cent transit charge for vessels using the strait under US protection. We look at the wider impact on travel, as the UK updates its advice for visitors to the UAE, while airports across the Emirates continue operating with only limited disruption despite the latest military escalation. In Yemen, Saudi Arabia comes under renewed attack from Houthi rebels, with ballistic missiles intercepted after explosions at Sanaa International Airport, prompting UN calls to avoid a return to full-scale conflict. Lebanese and Israeli delegations are also due to meet in Rome for the latest round of US-backed negotiations, with the future of southern Lebanon and Israel's proposed withdrawal from pilot zones at the centre of discussions. And the European Union launches an €883.6 million ($1,000) recovery initiative for Gaza, bringing together 15 international partners to restore essential services and support reconstruction as the Palestinian Authority presses ahead with governance reforms. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans
• World Cup round-up: Strongest semi-finals in history to start tonight 14.07.2026 4хв

  For the first time since Fifa introduced its world rankings, the top four teams have all reached the semi-finals. France, Argentina, Spain and England were kept apart by a new seeding system and it has delivered a semi-final line-up regarded as the strongest in World Cup history. France face Spain tonight at 11pm UAE time in Arlington, Texas. France striker Kylian Mbappe is fit and expected to start, but Spain have conceded only one goal in seven matches. The Golden Boot race adds another layer of intrigue to the match, with the two sides carrying the tournament's most dangerous attacks. England face Argentina tomorrow at 11pm in Atlanta, Georgia. Argentina will wear their navy blue away kit, a decision Argentinian media have linked to superstition after famous wins over England in 1986 and 1998. England are seeking a first World Cup title since 1966, while Argentina are chasing back-to-back titles – the last team to manage that feat were Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Iran launches attacks across region, Qatar mourns former emir and EU debates West Bank trade 13.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, Iran launches missile and drone attacks across Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Oman following waves of US strikes inside Iran. Gulf countries activate warnings and defences as Washington says its operation targeted Iranian military infrastructure to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. We also turn to Qatar, as the country prepares to receive regional and international leaders following the death of former emir Sheikh Hamad. Four days of national mourning have been declared as a mark of respect for the leader credited with transforming the country into a global diplomatic and economic power. Meanwhile, the EU is divided over whether to restrict trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, with officials debating legal options that could shape the bloc's policy in the months ahead. Elsewhere in the Middle East, the UAE and Egypt reaffirm their strategic partnership after talks between President Sheikh Mohamed and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi in El Alamein, focusing on regional security and humanitarian support for Gaza. And Dubai approves a Dh2 billion ($544.5 million) road project featuring new bridges, tunnels and cycling infrastructure to ease congestion and improve connectivity for hundreds of thousands of residents by 2028. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Semi-finals set, referee causes storm and player dies 13.07.2026 4хв

  The World Cup semi-finals are set after a weekend that produced drama, controversy and tragedy in equal measure. Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in Los Angeles, with Mikel Merino scoring a late winner. That goal came after Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois went off injured and his replacement Senne Lammens spilled a shot from distance. England beat Norway 2-1 after extra time in Miami, with Jude Bellingham scoring both goals for his team. Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister struck first then Switzerland equalised in the second half through Dan Ndoye, before Breel Embolo was controversially sent off following a VAR review under the mistaken identity protocol. The referee had initially booked Leandro Paredes, before VAR identified the foul as a dive by Embolo, who received his second yellow card of the game. Switzerland were furious, with captain Granit Xhaka saying the decision changed the game. The weekend's most sobering news was the death of South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams at the age of 25, just weeks after playing at the World Cup. France face Spain tomorrow at 11pm UAE time. England face Argentina on Wednesday, also at 11pm. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Explosions in Iran, Lebanon 'pilot zone' planned and Dubai Metro Blue Line reaches milestone 10.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, more explosions are reported across southern Iran as regional mediators work to revive negotiations between the US and Tehran. We also look at the next phase of the US-backed agreement between Lebanon and Israel, with the first "pilot security zone" expected to be established within days, before talks are held in Rome. But Israeli leaders insist the country's forces will remain in southern Lebanon for "as long as necessary". The Palestinian Authority announces the first legislative elections in two decades, with voting scheduled for November and a series of electoral reforms aimed at broadening representation. In Iraq, investigators uncover millions of dollars hidden in a drainage pit as the country's anti-corruption campaign expands. The discovery adds to a growing list of cash, gold and property seizures. And in Dubai, the Metro Blue Line reaches a major construction milestone after completing its first phase of tunnelling. The Dh20.5 billion ($5.6 billion) project is expected to transform transport across the emirate when it opens in 2029. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: A France-Morocco match full of records and no Arab or African teams remain 10.07.2026 5хв

  France are in the World Cup semi-finals after beating Morocco 2-0 at Gillette Stadium, ending another historic Arab and African campaign. It is France's third consecutive World Cup semi-final and they have still not conceded a goal at this tournament. Mbappe was the central figure despite missing a first-half penalty, saved by Bounou in what was a record-equalling moment. The Moroccan goalkeeper has now saved four penalties at World Cups, drawing level with the most by any goalkeeper in tournament history. After the break, Mbappe curled a superb finish to make it 1-0, levelling with Messi on eight goals in the Golden Boot race, before Dembele added a second to put the match beyond Morocco. Dembele's goal means France are only the second team in 50 years to have two players score five or more at the same World Cup, after Brazil in 2002. Morocco's performance without Ismael Saibari reflected his absence. They sat deep, limited France's opportunities for long spells but struggled to break forward when they won the ball. There are no Arab or African teams left in the tournament. Fifa's chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina defended World Cup officials in the wake of Egypt's complaint and the Balogun controversy, saying nobody can question the integrity of match officials and that Fifa refereeing cannot be influenced by anyone, including the Fifa president. Jarell Quansah has received a two-match ban for his red card against Mexico, meaning he misses the quarter-final against Norway and the semi-final if England progress, adding to the debate around consistency given Balogun's suspended ban. Tonight, Spain face Belgium at 11pm UAE time in Los Angeles. Spain have kept six consecutive clean sheets and gone more than 10 hours without conceding. The winner faces France in the semi-finals on July 14. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Sirens across the Gulf, Hormuz traffic near standstill and Dubai economy grows 09.07.2026 2хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, air raid sirens sound across Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait after Iran launches missile and drone attacks. Washington launched another round of strikes on Iranian military targets, while President Donald Trump says Tehran wants to make a deal but questions whether it can be trusted to honour one. We also examine the growing impact on global trade as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz slows to a near standstill. Vessel traffic has dropped sharply, LNG movements remain largely suspended and electronic interference is once again affecting navigation in the Gulf of Oman. In Syria, officials tell The National they believe remnants of the Assad regime were behind the recent bomb attacks in Damascus, saying the aim was to undermine the country's recovery and the prosecution of former regime figures. We also have the latest from Pakistan, where search teams have recovered the wreckage of the cargo plane that crashed into the Arabian Sea after departing Sharjah, as efforts continue to locate the five crew members. And despite months of regional conflict, Dubai's economy continues to expand. Official figures show GDP grew by 2.4 per cent in the first quarter, underlining the resilience of the emirate's diversified economy. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Egypt file Fifa complaint over Argentina referee and Morocco face France tonight 09.07.2026 5хв

  The fallout from Egypt's 3-2 defeat to Argentina is deepening. The Egyptian Football Association has filed a formal complaint with Fifa, calling for an investigation into referee Francois Letexier and his VAR team over what it described as serious mistakes, double standards and improper use of VAR. The EFA has also asked FIFA to remove the officiating crew from the rest of the tournament. Egypt's team director also claimed the referee threatened Hossam Hassan during the game. Hassan himself said he would not watch another match at this World Cup. The EFA has confirmed it wants Hassan to continue as national team coach. Fifa is also under broader pressure over the Balogun controversy. Seventy-two European lawmakers have written to EU football association heads asking them to support an investigation into Fifa and Infantino, citing the decision-making around Balogun's suspended ban alongside wider governance concerns. Belgium, now preparing for their quarter-final against Spain, have also complained about the quality of their training facilities in Los Angeles. In other news, Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has stepped down after nine years in charge. Jorge Jesus is the leading candidate to succeed Roberto Martinez as Portugal coach. England have not ruled out Jordan Henderson returning at this tournament after surgery on a broken arm suffered while celebrating against Mexico. Tonight there is one match. Morocco face France in the quarter-finals at midnight UAE time, in what Morocco's coach Mohamed Ouahbi has said is not about repeating 2022 but about winning the World Cup. Ismael Saibari is unlikely to feature due to injury, with Sofiane Rahimi expected to replace him. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Sirens blare in Bahrain and Kuwait, US launches strikes on Iran and oil prices rise 08.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, air raid sirens sound across Kuwait and Bahrain after the US renews strikes on Iran in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices also climb as Washington restores sanctions on Iranian oil exports after the attacks in the waterway. We also report on the uncertainty surrounding the next round of negotiations between Israeli and Lebanese officials, after Israel announced talks in Rome that Lebanon says it has not yet been notified about. In the UAE, Abu Dhabi establishes a specialised court for human trafficking cases as part of wider efforts to strengthen legal protections for victims and to help tackle organised crime. Meanwhile, recruiters say the UAE jobs market is beginning to recover after weeks of geopolitical uncertainty, with employers expected to resume hiring more actively after the summer. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Egypt's historic journey ends against Argentina in heartbreak and accusations 08.07.2026 4хв

  Egypt are out of the World Cup, but the anger is just beginning. Argentina came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 in Atlanta in a match that will be debated long after the tournament ends. Egypt led through Yasser Ibrahim's header, had a Mostafa Zico goal ruled out by VAR for a foul at the other end of the pitch in the build-up, then scored again in the 67th minute to make it 2-0. Messi set up Romero to pull one back in the 79th minute, equalised four minutes later, and Enzo Fernandez headed the winner in stoppage time. Egypt also appealed for a penalty on Mohamed Salah seconds before that winner, and felt a foul by Alexis Mac Allister in the build-up was never reviewed. Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan said after the match that Egypt had "suffered injustice" and suggested the referee and VAR had been influenced by external pressure to keep Argentina in the competition. He said he would not watch another match at this World Cup. The Egyptian Football Association has asked Fifa to investigate the referee and VAR team. Hassan had also objected to the appointment of French referee Francois Letexier before the match, given Argentina beat France in the 2022 final. Switzerland beat Colombia 4-3 on penalties after a goalless draw, and will face Argentina in the quarter-finals. Morocco are now the last Arab and last African team in the tournament, facing France in the quarter-finals at midnight on Thursday. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Strait of Hormuz shipping hit again, Macron backs Syria and Gaza governance shifts 07.07.2026 3хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz comes under renewed attack as Iran strikes vessels in the waterway. The incidents have fuelled concerns over energy security as Britain and France prepare a multinational naval mission to protect commercial traffic in the strait. French President Emmanuel Macron also arrives in Damascus, becoming the first western leader to visit Syria since the end of the civil war in 2024. His talks with President Ahmad Al Shara are expected to focus on reconstruction, investment and regional stability. We also look ahead to a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Mr Al Shara at the Nato summit in Turkey, where regional security and Lebanon are expected to top the agenda. Attention is also turning to Gaza's political future after Hamas announced it is dissolving its governing authority, paving the way for a UN-backed technocratic administration to take over under a wider peace plan. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank says most of its digital banking services have been restored after a week of technical disruption, with only a small number of customers still awaiting full access to its app. Trending Middle East is AI-assisted, using original reporting published in The National and curated and edited by humans.
• World Cup round-up: Ronaldo's dream is over, all three co-hosts are eliminated and Fifa's crisis deepens 07.07.2026 5хв

  Spain are in the World Cup quarter-finals after Mikel Merino's 91st-minute goal ended Portugal's tournament in Dallas. Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, was peripheral throughout and was left in tears after what is almost certainly his final World Cup match. Roberto Martinez confirmed he is stepping down as Portugal's coach. Belgium beat the US 4-1 in Seattle in a match that rendered the Folarin Balogun controversy irrelevant on the pitch. Belgium were sharper from the start and the game turned when US goalkeeper Matt Freese rushed out of his area and lost possession, allowing Hans Vanaken to finish into an empty net. All three co-hosts are now out. But the fallout continues to grow after Fifa's decision to suspend Balogun's one-match ban after an intervention from US President Donald Trump. Uefa called Fifa's ruling "unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable", accusing the ruling body of crossing a red line. Belgium's appeal was dismissed. Mr Trump confirmed he called Fifa president Gianni Infantino, after Balogun was sent off against Bosnia in the previous round. Meanwhile, France beat Paraguay 1-0, but the post-match story was centred on striker Kylian Mbappe's public response to a Paraguayan senator who posted racist comments about him. The French football authorities are reporting the matter to prosecutors. Tonight, Egypt face Argentina at 8pm UAE time in Atlanta, pitching Lionel Messi against Mohamed Salah. Switzerland face Colombia at midnight. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.
• Trump heads to Nato summit, Iran mourns Khamenei, Macron set for Syria visit 06.07.2026 2хв

  In today’s episode of Trending Middle East, US President Donald Trump heads to the Nato summit in Turkey, where Iran, defence spending and support for Ukraine are expected to dominate discussions. European allies are also expected to outline new contributions to security in the Strait of Hormuz. In Iran, millions of mourners are expected to take part in the funeral procession for former supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as a week of ceremonies continues before his burial in Mashhad. We also look ahead to a landmark visit to Damascus, where French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to become the first European Union leader to visit Syria since President Ahmad Al Shara came to power, with talks focused on investment, reconstruction and regional co-operation. In business, Adnoc launches a new global LNG marketing and trading platform in Abu Dhabi as it expands its role in international energy markets and prepares to significantly increase its liquefied natural gas exports. And the UAE takes another step in its digital economy, with the country's dirham-backed stablecoin becoming available on regulated trading platforms, making digital payments more accessible for consumers and businesses.
• World Cup round-up: England survive, Brazil's era ends and Fifa's integrity is now in question 06.07.2026 6хв

  England have reached the World Cup quarter-finals after beating Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca, in one of their biggest knockout victories in decades. Jude Bellingham scored twice in two minutes, but England were reduced to 10 men after a red card for Jarell Quansah and had to defend deep and face 49 Mexican crosses. Harry Kane scored a penalty and Jordan Pickford made crucial saves. England face Norway in Miami on Saturday. Erling Haaland scored a late double as Norway won 2-1 in New Jersey to end Brazil's record of reaching at least the quarter-finals at every tournament since 1990. Haaland was quiet for most of the match but scored twice in the final minutes. Neymar replied with a late penalty and then confirmed his retirement from international football, departing as Brazil's all-time top scorer. This is Brazil's earliest World Cup exit in 36 years. The biggest controversy of the knockout stage has nothing to do with what happened on the pitch. Fifa has suspended a one-match ban for US striker Folarin Balogun after US President Donald Trump called Fifa president Gianni Infantino to ask for a review. Balogun, sent off in the last-32 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, will now be available to play in the last 16 against Belgium. He's the US's top scorer at the tournament with three goals. Fifa offered no reason or explanation for suspending Balogun's ban. It just cited "article 27 of the Fifa disciplinary code". It is the first time Article 27 has been used at a World Cup. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said he did not know the fifth of July had become April Fools' Day, adding that his federation was not just defending themselves but defending football. Meanwhile, Morocco are already through to the quarter-finals after beating Canada 3-0 and now face France in a repeat of the 2022 semi-final. Egypt face Argentina tomorrow after beating Australia on penalties, with coach Hossam Hassan dedicating the win to the Egyptian and Palestinian people after walking across the pitch with a Palestinian flag. Tonight, Portugal face Spain at 11pm in Dallas and the US face Belgium at 4am in Seattle, with Balogun now available to start. Mina Rzouki presents Trending Middle East's World Cup round-up, a daily bonus series from The National for the duration of the tournament.