
SeneNews will provide live coverage of the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match between Portugal and Croatia. The game is scheduled for Thursday, July 2, 2026, with kickoff at 11:00 PM Dakar time at BMO Field. The article will feature live scores, goals, substitutions, cards, and a summary of key moments, updated automatically throughout the match. Both teams are expected to play a 4-2-3-1 formation. Portugal's starting lineup includes Diogo Costa, João Cancelo, Rúben Dias, Renato Veiga, Nuno Mendes, João Neves, Vitinha, Pedro Neto, Bruno Fernandes, Rafael Leão, and Cristiano Ronaldo, coached by Roberto Martinez. Croatia's starting XI features Dominik Livaković, Josip Stanišić, Josip Šutalo, Marin Pongračić, Ivan Perišić, Luka Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, Nikola Vlašić, Petar Sučić, Martin Baturina, and Ante Budimir, under coach Zlatko Dalic. Espen Eskas from Norway will officiate the match.
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Must ReadCape Verde's coach, Pedro "Bubista" Leitão, expressed confidence that his team has "nothing to fear" as they prepare to face Argentina in the World Cup round of 16. This marks a historic debut for the team in the World Cup. Leitão stated that the team is serene and earned their place, emphasizing that they know the importance of the match and will give their best. He declined to comment on accusations of a violation against Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes, which reportedly stem from a complaint filed in New Zealand by a Brazilian woman regarding events in March at a hotel in Auckland during friendly matches. Neither the Cape Verdean Federation nor FIFA have commented on the accusations, though FIFA stated it is in contact with New Zealand authorities. Mendes, 36, is the most capped player for Cape Verde with 99 selections and the team's all-time leading scorer with 22 goals. Cape Verde qualified for the round of 16 by finishing second in Group H, eliminating Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.

Matar Sène announced on Wednesday that he has been dismissed from his position as Director General of Social Protection and National Solidarity DGPSN. He made the announcement via a social media post, stating he had led the institution for two years. Sène thanked Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko for his trust during his tenure and expressed gratitude to all DGPSN staff for their collaboration. He affirmed his continued commitment to serving the country despite his departure. The reasons for his dismissal were not specified in his publication, and authorities have not yet officially commented on the decision.

Ismaïla Sarr, following his best career season with Crystal Palace, is attracting interest from major European clubs. Manchester United has reportedly begun discussions with the Senegalese international's representatives for a potential transfer this summer. Crystal Palace, however, is not expected to easily part with their top scorer. Sarr had an exceptional season, scoring four goals for Senegal in the World Cup and finishing as Crystal Palace's top scorer with 21 goals across all competitions. He also excelled in the Conference League, being named best player and top scorer with nine goals, contributing significantly to Crystal Palace's victory. At 28, Manchester United's interest is a logical progression for Sarr, who has established himself among Africa's top attackers. This move could offer him the chance to play in the Champions League for the first time. Crystal Palace will likely be reluctant to release their key player, who remains under contract for three more seasons.