Marie-France van Heel, Dutch-born, raised in Belgium and known as Frankie, was said to be "the coolest girl in college" when she met fellow undergraduate Andy Burnham at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge. When asked what his favourite thing about his time at university was, the soon-to-be prime minister once joked in an interview: "I need to say meeting my future wife there." The year was 1989. Born in January 1970, the same month as Mr Burnham, Ms Van Heel was in her first year, he was in his second, studying English literature. Politics latest: Downing Street being prepared for new PM His former lecturer has claimed other students thought he had "scooped the pools" when they began dating. Was it love at first sight, though? Although they'd started dating, in the early days of their relationship she asked if she could go on Cilla Black's TV dating show Blind Date. Surprisingly, he agreed. And in 1992, wearing flares, a bottle green jacket and a yellow headband over her bobbed blonde hair, she appeared on the hit ITV show. She chose Will Harris, from Surrey, to be her date on a holiday to Gibraltar. Mr Burnham has since admitted that he watched the show from behind a sofa. But, fortunately for the future PM, the TV couple didn't hit it off, and she was quickly reunited with the young Cambridge undergraduate. Years later, when he'd become MP for Leigh in Greater Manchester, they were in parliament's Strangers' Bar when Mr Harris walked in and announced he'd become marketing director for the Conservative Party. The couple had their first child, Jimmy, in March 2000. He has said that spurred them on to get married, after years of living together. "I think marriage is better for kids," Mr Burnham, a Roman Catholic, said in 2007. "I'm a bit old fashioned on these matters, although I have to admit that Jimmy, my eldest son, was at our wedding, so I'm only old fashioned up to a point. "When my wife got pregnant for the first time, it was a complete shock. My first thought was, 'oh my God, we'll have to get married'." Their daughters, Rosie and Annie, were born a few years later, and the whole family was in the front row for Mr Burnham's coronation at the TUC's Congress House in London. He gave his wife a big hug and a kiss when his victory was announced. His coronation was third time lucky for Mr Burnham. He previously stood for leader in 2010, when Ed Miliband won, and he was runner-up to Jeremy Corbyn in 2015. During the 2010 contest, Ms van Heel underwent a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the gene for breast cancer when her sister Claire died from the disease aged just 39. "The decision was liberating rather than depressing, because it's lifted the cloud of fear," Mr Burnham said at the time. "She did what she did because she'd seen the devastation breast cancer had caused to her sisters and mother. "We more than most know what could have happened and we had to find a way to get beyond it." As a result, she has been a donor to Cancer Research UK, often participating in the charity's Race for Life. She's a board member for Plan International, a humanitarian organisation, working with Great Ormond Street Hospital, Marie Curie, and The Alzheimer's Society. Throughout her husband's ascent to the top job in politics, via ministerial jobs for Tony Blair and Gordon Brown and the Greater Manchester mayoralty, she has had a highly successful business career. Ms Van Heel speaks three languages, and worked in marketing for Sky and the BBC, where she was also involved in logo designs. She's said to have helped design her husband's iconic cartoon election posters in Makerfield. She's currently chief marketing officer of Iduna, a company which owns large parts of Manchester's electric vehicle charging network. The Conservatives complained she didn't declare her company shares. But, as mayor, Mr Burnham said he declared his wife's job, and took no part in decisions about Iduna, and any linked infrastructure, to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest. Read more from Sky News:Andrew and Tristan Tate arrested in MiamiWoman charged with murder following death of pensioner The Greater Manchester Combined Authority confirmed he was given legal advice that no further declaration was necessary because he had already declared his wife as an employee. "We are satisfied that the mayor has met his legal obligations to register disclosable pecuniary interests," a spokesperson for the authority said. Ms Van Heel is politically active, but not in a public or showy way. Unlike many previous prime ministerial spouses, she did not join her husband on the stage at the end of his victory speech. They were, however, seen leaving the hall together, arm in arm. Next time she's seen in public with her husband, it is likely to be on the steps of 10 Downing Street on Monday.

The BBC Radio 4 presenter who hosted current affairs shows including Today and World At One died on Saturday surrounded by his family, the BBC said. In 2023, Stourton revealed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer a decade before. He received treatment but was later told the cancer had spread. He had continued to work until recently, publishing his most recent book, Made In America, exploring US history and how it has led to the era of Donald Trump, just last year. Stourton published his memoir, Confessions, in 2023, in which he shared his cancer diagnosis. His death follows that of fellow broadcast journalist Dermot Murnaghan, who died two weeks ago following a period of illness with prostate cancer, and who was also aged 68. Former prime minister David Cameron and six-time Olympic champion Chris Hoy have also spoken publicly about being treated for the disease. A tenacious and well-respected foreign correspondent, Stourton was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1957. After attending the University of Cambridge, he was a graduate trainee at ITN, where he was a founding member of Channel 4 News in 1982. An 'outstanding broadcaster' who will 'leave a gap' Initially working as a scriptwriter, he would go on to cover foreign news, including a stint as Washington correspondent, where he reported on the final years of the Reagan presidency. He then went on to join the BBC in 1988 before returning to ITN two years later as diplomatic editor, reporting from around the world, including from Baghdad during the Gulf War, Bosnia during the siege of Sarajevo and Moscow in the final days of the Soviet Union. He returned to the BBC in 1993 and fronted the One O'Clock News for six years and presented his own Radio 4 phone-in programme, Call Ed Stourton, before joining the Today programme in 1999, which he presented for a decade. Stourton also worked as BBC Two's world affairs strand correspondent, presented editions of Panorama as well as a string of Radio 4 programmes including The World At One, The World This Weekend and Analysis. A Roman Catholic, he wrote a book about the former pope, John Paul II: Man Of History, and presented Radio 4's religious and ethical current affairs series, Sunday. Jonathan Munro, interim chief executive of BBC News and current affairs, said, Stourton's death would leave "a huge gap", adding, "It's far too soon to lose Ed. I worked as his producer when he was ITN's diplomatic editor - unflappable then and ever after." Mohit Bakaya, controller of BBC Radio 4, called him an "absolutely outstanding broadcaster", saying: "When Ed was behind the mic, whether on Sunday or the various news programmes he regularly presented for Radio 4, you felt you understood the world that little bit better." Stourton is survived by his wife Fiona and his four children.

Marie-France van Heel, Dutch-born, raised in Belgium and known as Frankie, was said to be "the coolest girl in college" when she met fellow undergraduate Andy Burnham at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge. When asked what his favourite thing about his time at university was, the soon-to-be prime minister once joked in an interview: "I need to say meeting my future wife there." The year was 1989. Born in January 1970, the same month as Mr Burnham, Ms Van Heel was in her first year, he was in his second, studying English literature. Politics latest: Downing Street being prepared for new PM His former lecturer has claimed other students thought he had "scooped the pools" when they began dating. Was it love at first sight, though? Although they'd started dating, in the early days of their relationship she asked if she could go on Cilla Black's TV dating show Blind Date. Surprisingly, he agreed. And in 1992, wearing flares, a bottle green jacket and a yellow headband over her bobbed blonde hair, she appeared on the hit ITV show. She chose Will Harris, from Surrey, to be her date on a holiday to Gibraltar. Mr Burnham has since admitted that he watched the show from behind a sofa. But, fortunately for the future PM, the TV couple didn't hit it off, and she was quickly reunited with the young Cambridge undergraduate. Years later, when he'd become MP for Leigh in Greater Manchester, they were in parliament's Strangers' Bar when Mr Harris walked in and announced he'd become marketing director for the Conservative Party. The couple had their first child, Jimmy, in March 2000. He has said that spurred them on to get married, after years of living together. "I think marriage is better for kids," Mr Burnham, a Roman Catholic, said in 2007. "I'm a bit old fashioned on these matters, although I have to admit that Jimmy, my eldest son, was at our wedding, so I'm only old fashioned up to a point. "When my wife got pregnant for the first time, it was a complete shock. My first thought was, 'oh my God, we'll have to get married'." Their daughters, Rosie and Annie, were born a few years later, and the whole family was in the front row for Mr Burnham's coronation at the TUC's Congress House in London. He gave his wife a big hug and a kiss when his victory was announced. His coronation was third time lucky for Mr Burnham. He previously stood for leader in 2010, when Ed Miliband won, and he was runner-up to Jeremy Corbyn in 2015. During the 2010 contest, Ms van Heel underwent a double mastectomy after discovering she carried the gene for breast cancer when her sister Claire died from the disease aged just 39. "The decision was liberating rather than depressing, because it's lifted the cloud of fear," Mr Burnham said at the time. "She did what she did because she'd seen the devastation breast cancer had caused to her sisters and mother. "We more than most know what could have happened and we had to find a way to get beyond it." As a result, she has been a donor to Cancer Research UK, often participating in the charity's Race for Life. She's a board member for Plan International, a humanitarian organisation, working with Great Ormond Street Hospital, Marie Curie, and The Alzheimer's Society. Throughout her husband's ascent to the top job in politics, via ministerial jobs for Tony Blair and Gordon Brown and the Greater Manchester mayoralty, she has had a highly successful business career. Ms Van Heel speaks three languages, and worked in marketing for Sky and the BBC, where she was also involved in logo designs. She's said to have helped design her husband's iconic cartoon election posters in Makerfield. She's currently chief marketing officer of Iduna, a company which owns large parts of Manchester's electric vehicle charging network. The Conservatives complained she didn't declare her company shares. But, as mayor, Mr Burnham said he declared his wife's job, and took no part in decisions about Iduna, and any linked infrastructure, to avoid any perception of a conflict of interest. Read more from Sky News:Andrew and Tristan Tate arrested in MiamiWoman charged with murder following death of pensioner The Greater Manchester Combined Authority confirmed he was given legal advice that no further declaration was necessary because he had already declared his wife as an employee. "We are satisfied that the mayor has met his legal obligations to register disclosable pecuniary interests," a spokesperson for the authority said. Ms Van Heel is politically active, but not in a public or showy way. Unlike many previous prime ministerial spouses, she did not join her husband on the stage at the end of his victory speech. They were, however, seen leaving the hall together, arm in arm. Next time she's seen in public with her husband, it is likely to be on the steps of 10 Downing Street on Monday.

It was announced in January that the former England player and manager had been diagnosed with stage four cancer, with his family revealing he was set to begin treatment. "It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75," a statement from Keegan's family read. "The former England player and manager had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments. "Kevin, a double Ballon d'Or winner, was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather. The family would like to thank Kevin's incredible medical team for all their support. This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy." England have announced that they will pay tribute to Keegan's life before their Nations League game with Spain at Wembley in September. Keegan was considered one of the best players of his generation and enjoyed a stellar playing career, making almost 750 club appearances, lifting the First Division trophy three times with Liverpool and winning the Ballon d'Or back-to-back in 1978 and 1979 while playing for Hamburg in the Bundesliga. Seven years after his retirement, he took his first coaching role as manager of a struggling Newcastle team in February 1992. The Magpies were in danger of being relegated to Division Two but Keegan kept them up and then led them to the Premier League in his first full season in charge. Then, in 1996, he took Newcastle to within touching distance of their first top-tier title since 1927. Newcastle were Premier League title favourites for most of that 1995/96 season, at one stage being 12 points clear of Manchester United. But a dramatic collapse from Keegan's side coupled with a Sir Alex Ferguson-inspired Man Utd winning 13 of their last 15, eventually saw Newcastle finish second by four points. Late defeats at the hands of Liverpool and Nottingham Forest in the run-in saw United eventually haul them in. As the pressure mounted on a beleaguered Keegan, who was desperate to deliver the title to a passionate Newcastle fanbase, his infamous "I'd love it.." post-match interview after victory at Leeds, aimed at Sir Alex, among others, unfortunately characterised his time at St James' Park. He would go on to manage England, for whom he had scored 21 goals in 63 games as a player, between February 1999 and October 2000 - resigning minutes after a 1-0 defeat to Germany in the last game played at the old Wembley Stadium. His time as national boss also saw England fail to get out of the group stage at Euro 2000, despite a 1-0 win over Germany, as defeats by Portugal and Romania piled on the pressure even before that defeat at the hands of Dietmar Hamann's free-kick four months later in the first qualifier for the 2002 World Cup. A spell at Manchester City followed, which included promotion to the Premier League in 2002 as Division One champions, but Keegan left the club in March 2005, initially announcing his retirement from football. Keegan made an emotional return to Newcastle in 2008, but only lasted eight months following tensions with the board and owner Mike Ashley. Newcastle's statement in full on Keegan's passing "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply-loved figures in our club's history. "Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters. "As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James' Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be. "As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer. "Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the north east with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions. "Kevin's impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him. "At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin's wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. "Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin's remarkable life and legacy. Rest in Peace, King Kev." 'Giant of the game' - Tributes come in for Keegan Alan Shearer: "My Hero. My manager. My friend. Sleep easy Boss." Jamie Carragher: "RIP Kevin Keegan. One of the greatest players this country has ever produced, trophies & goals galore, double Ballon D'or winner shows he was an absolute giant of the English game. One of the most important men in making Liverpool what it is today." Liverpool FC: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan and mourn his loss. His indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history and his legacy will live on. Rest in peace, Kevin." England national team: "We are incredibly saddened by the news that Kevin Keegan OBE has passed away. Kevin earned 63 international caps and scored 21 goals between 1972 and 1982, before managing the Three Lions from 1999 to 2000. Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin's family, friends and former clubs." Southampton FC: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. "Kevin signed for the club in 1980 as the holder of the Ballon d'Or and brought great joy to fans at The Dell and across the football world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time." Manchester City FC: "Everyone at Manchester City is devastated to learn our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away, aged 75. "Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge. "The promotion campaign in 2001/02 will never be forgotten, and Kevin then established us once again as a top Premier League side in the years that followed. Our thoughts are with Kevin's family and friends at this very difficult time." Former Newcastle interim co-chief executive Mehrdad Ghodoussi: "Devastated to hear about Kevin Keegan. Growing up watching football, he was one of the names that defined an era, a double Ballon d'Or winner, European Cup champion, England captain, and one of the most exciting players the game has seen. "But what he did at Newcastle was different. He turned belief into something you could feel in the stadium. King Kev wasn't just admired, he was loved, because everything he did came from the heart. Rest in peace, Kevin. Thank you for everything you gave the game." The English Football League: "The EFL is saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan. A legend of the English game, Keegan will be remembered by generations of football fans for his impact as a player and manager. Our thoughts are with his family and friends." Manchester United: "We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Kevin Keegan. A giant of English football, he was a cherished figure at the very highest levels of the game. Our condolences go to Kevin's family, loved ones and all those he inspired as a manager, player and person, on and off the pitch. Rest in peace, Kevin." Former Liverpool striker David Fairclough: "Stunned. Such sad news Kevin Keegan has passed away. Absolutely devastated to hear such awful news. So many incredible memories of KK, I'm so lucky to have spent time and shared moments that have and will last a lifetime. Heartfelt condolences and love to Jean and family. YNWA." Fulham FC: "We're incredibly sad to hear the news that our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away. A legend of the game, Keegan led Fulham to the Football League Second Division title in 1999. He left Craven Cottage at the end of that season to focus on his duties as England manager. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time."

The 76-year-old, who helped traffic tonnes of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine and other drugs into the US, was arrested in 2024 after he said he was kidnapped in Mexico and flown to Texas. He then pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in August last year, after prosecutors said they would not seek the death penalty. Speaking through a Spanish-language interpreter at the time, he apologised "to everyone who has suffered or been affected by my actions". US District Judge Brian Cogan handed down the sentence at a hearing in Brooklyn federal court on Monday. Along with a life sentence, he also faces $15 billion in financial penalties. Prosecutors said that Zambada ordered torture and plotted murders as he and co-founder Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman - whose son Joaquin Guzman Lopez was arrested with Zambada - grew the Sinaloa cartel into the world's largest drug trafficking organisation. They added in a sentencing memo that Zambada "was one of the most - if not the most - prolific and powerful narcotraffickers in the world," adding that "it would be difficult to overstate the magnitude" of his crimes and the scale of the "corruption, violence, and other harm he spread". Federal authorities said in 2023 that the cartel was sending "staggering" amounts of fentanyl to the US, where the opioid kills thousands every year. See more from Sky News:Man in 20s dies in 'tragic incident' off North TynesideArgentina coach in tears after World Cup defeatHosepipe ban brought in for millions more According to the Reuters news agency, Zambada's lawyer Frank Perez said in a 6 July court filing that his client was fully aware he would receive a life sentence when he decided to accept responsibility for his crimes. Mr Perez asked Judge Cogan to recommend to the Bureau of Prisons that the elderly Zambada be placed in a facility where he would receive adequate medical care. This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version. You can receive breaking news alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News app. You can also follow us on WhatsApp and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.

Joe McBride, who is representing the controversial social media influencers, said in a post on X on Sunday that the brothers were being held in a "5x12 cell as political prisoners on American soil, in solitary confinement". The brothers were arrested in the US on Saturday and taken into custody after the UK issued an extradition request. UK authorities have brought 38 new charges against the brothers, who, Mr McBride said, will face court "first thing" on Monday. Andrew, 39, has been charged with seven further counts of rape and several trafficking and assault offences, while Tristian, 38, is charged with two counts of rape, sexual assault and trafficking offences. Mr McBride said their arrest was "un-American and unconscionable", warning that when "American citizens can be caged for their politics, every single one of you is next". "They are also being hunted by a despotic UK government that wants to bury them in a foreign prison for the rest of their lives," he said. "We met with them today. They are dressed in orange jumpsuits like Al Qaeda terrorists at Guantanamo Bay. Two innocent men, charged with nothing in America, dressed like enemy combatants." He continued his strongly worded warning about the erosion of free speech, and added: "Mark my words, today it is Andrew and Tristan. "Tomorrow it will be Trump. "Then it will be you." Mr McBride shared an image that appeared to be an AI-generated depiction of the brothers together in a cell wearing orange prison jumpsuits. Andrew has also been charged with offences relating to "indecent images of a child and extreme pornography". The UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it would bring ​more charges against the brothers after it identified four additional alleged victims. Read more from Sky News:Trump blames Canada as US 'invaded by filthy air'US boxer Hannah Rapp, 26, dies after being hit by car The CPS said the 38 additional charges, in addition to 21 existing charges, relate to alleged offences between July 2010 and August 2017. The new charges are based on evidence compiled by Bedfordshire Police. The previous charges were connected to alleged offences that took place between 2012 to 2016 and involved three alleged victims. The US Marshals Service took the brothers, who rose to notoriety for their prominence in the manosphere, into custody on a sealed warrant. The brothers have denied allegations of sexual abuse and trafficking, claiming that violent and misogynistic statements have been taken out of context or intended as jokes. The pair - who are dual UK and US nationals - are expected to appear before a magistrate judge in Miami on Monday. Bail is rarely granted to those held for international extradition, and Mr McBride said he expects they will remain jailed for the time being. In the coming weeks, a US district judge will consider whether they meet the conditions for extradition. The ultimate decision about whether to order the extradition will fall to US secretary of state Marco Rubio.

The Reform UK leader was placed under investigation by parliament's standards commissioner in May after it emerged that he received £5m from billionaire Christopher Harborne just months before he was elected as the MP for Clacton, but had not declared it. Mr Farage has said the money was an entirely personal gift, and so did not need to be declared under the rules mandating the declaration of money and benefits received in the 12 months prior to being elected. Politics latest: Andy Burnham takes power In a new interview with the Triggernometry podcast, the Reform UK leader reiterated that argument, saying: "I have a legal document. [The money] is unconditional. I can do what I like with it. I can spend it on the horses. I can go and buy a Ferrari. I can do what I like with it. It's an unconditional gift." Mr Farage said that "given the way the world is now", the money will be used for "protection until the end of my days". He said he has not broken the law nor "fiddled" his expenses or misused public money, and added: "What is my sin?" The Reform UK leader said that when he was completing the necessary paperwork after being elected, he was "tearing [his] hair out" at the requirements, and said the House of Commons is "not designed for anybody in business", because "the whole thing's impossible". He said he then consulted a "top international lawyer" to ask if he needed to declare the money, and they told him the gift is "unconditional" and "not related to political campaigning", so he did not need to. Mr Farage is also facing questions over his relationship with George Cottrell, who has previously been convicted in the US of wire fraud, who is reported to have given him benefits-in-kind that were also not declared. He said Mr Cottrell, nicknamed 'Posh George', "got into trouble in America" when he was younger, and asserted that "if you are involved in tax avoidance schemes, it is very easy in America to get into very, very big trouble". He said once Cottrell had served his prison sentence in the US, people were telling him that he "must never see him again". "Well, I don't do that. I don't dump people," Mr Farage stated. "I do actually believe in Christian forgiveness. I think it's part of what we are as a community, as a society. There are many, many people who fell off the rails as young men or women who have gone on to achieve great things in life for themselves and their communities." He added: "I've stood loyally with George because I think he deserves a second chance." Mr Farage said that he "perched in an office in one of [Mr Cottrell's] London homes", and that he provided him with social media and video support before he was elected to parliament. The Reform UK leader insisted that that help is "not a matter of public interest or record", and is "irrelevant" because at the time, he was not in politics, but was an "influencer", a campaigner, a broadcaster, and in private business. "It is literally no one's business. It is totally undeclarable in every single way," Mr Farage said. He added that he has "taken nothing from him since 3 June", which was when he announced he was standing for parliament in the 2024 election, and that Mr Cottrell has not given money to Reform UK. "The idea that his donation, or in particular his mother's donation - this was reported to the NCA [National Crime Agency] in September 2024. The police followed up in the spring of 2025. Why is it now a story? It's now a story because everything is being coordinated together to try and knock us out of the game," he said. Tap here for the full list of candidates standing in the Clacton by-election.

Arise Sir Rodri, Spain's ultimate superpower Player of the tournament - Rodri Spain are not crowned champions without Rodri's poise and control in midfield. If you don't believe me, watch the France semi-final back. A master at work. Across the tournament, he played over 100 more open-play passes than any other player. He only really had his Spanish team-mates for competition. Just all-round genius. Goal of the tournament - Julian Alvarez vs Switzerland Julian Alvarez's stunner for Argentina against Switzerland was a wonderful goal in its own right. The distance, the curl, the nestle top right. But to deliver such class in extra-time of a knockout game under such pressure and intensity makes it truly outstanding. Moment of the tournament - Messi hat-trick vs Algeria Few UK viewers would have watched this masterclass live because the game kicked off at ridiculous o'clock. But I did. And it was special, proving beyond doubt that he is the greatest. The beautiful game lit up by its most peerless pioneer. Absolutely worth the early alarm. Game of the tournament - Argentina 3-2 Cape Verde Obviously Mexico-England was absolute cinema. But for a point of difference, I've gone with Cape Verde running Argentina ragged. The lowest-ranked nation ever to qualify for the knockout stage pushing the reigning champions to the brink was gold. Breakout star - Pau Cubarsi Lots of hype about Ayyoub Bouaddi, but I didn't see enough of him to win this category. I loved the contribution of Pau Cubarsi for Spain. At 19, he's already among the world's best in his position. So commanding and positionally intelligent for one so young, and of course he has the Spanish charm offensive in possession, too. Biggest disappointment - Balogun red card overturned This had to be addressed somewhere. A complete sham, making a mockery of the game and those who run it. Folarin Balogun's involvement in the USA's last-16 loss to Belgium won't be remembered for the football, but for political interference. They only succeeded in making themselves public enemy number one. What a way to tarnish an otherwise fantastic tournament.Laura Hunter Kane still an elite goalscorer - but Tuchel disappointed Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi We have been truly blessed as fans of this great game to witness one final hurrah from the greatest to ever do it. Goal of the tournament - Harry Kane vs DR Congo This was Kane in a nutshell and identifies what makes him the elite goalscorer he is. All he needed was half a yard and bang. It has to rank higher due it being a winning goal, too. Moment of the tournament - Ecuador's win over Germany For sheer explosion of colour and vibrancy from the Yellow Wall, it had to be Ecuador's winning goal over the heavyweights of Germany to seal a place in the knockouts. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England Having been live blogging football matches for Sky Sports for over 10 years now, I thought I had seen it all. But England winning a knockout match at the Azteca to the backdrop of such carnage and adversity is up there with the best matches I've ever worked on. Breakout star - Ayyoub Bouaddi He became only the second 18-year-old to play for Morocco at a World Cup and produced some immaculate displays in central midfield showing a maturity beyond his years. Biggest disappointment - High-profile managers Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, Marcelo Bielsa and Mauricio Pochettino all suffered shambolic exits from the competition with a failure to bring their day-to-day body of work to this type of format.Lewis Jones Joyous Cape Verde a reminder of what makes World Cup special Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi Showed exactly why he is the greatest to ever do it. He was instrumental in pushing Argentina all the way to another final, and they always have a chance when he is on the pitch. Goal of the tournament - Wilson Isidor vs Morocco The one that immediately came to mind. A brilliant hit from range that curled beautifully into the top corner. Highly recommend a watch if you've not seen it. Moment of the tournament - Cape Verde reach the round of 32 A goalless draw with Saudi Arabia secured Cape Verde's spot in the round of 32, setting up a blockbuster tie with Argentina - which they were not far off winning. The celebrations were joyous and offered a timely reminder of why the World Cup is so special. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England A game that had everything - intense build-up, history, weather delays, goals and drama. England's best overall performance and a game that will go down as one of the best ever at a World Cup. Breakout star - Elliot Anderson While he was well-known to Premier League fans, Anderson has cemented himself as a solid international midfielder. He was not perfect in every game, but showed his quality. Biggest disappointment - Uruguay A disaster from start to finish. From Marcelo Bielsa's refusal to look at the camera during pre-tournament media, to crashing out at the group stage with just two points from three games after draws against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. It wasn't even enough to go through as one of the best third-place teams.Charlotte Marsh Breakout Bouaddi shines in shop window Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi Just the GOAT doing GOAT things. If this is the end for Messi on the international stage, what a final chapter. Goal of the tournament - Julian Alvarez vs Switzerland The finish is one thing. The fact it came in the second half of extra-time where Alvarez's energy would've been spent is another. One word: unbelievable. Moment of the tournament - Messi's hat-trick vs Algeria This has been a World Cup where all the big stars have shown up and showed out. Nothing epitomises that quite like Lionel Messi bagging a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opener. It set the tone for the tournament and began an incredible battle between him and Kylian Mbappe for the golden boot. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England All the odds were stacked against England. In a different era, the players would've collapsed under the pressure. Not in this era. Breakout star - Ayyoub Bouaddi This was a tournament where those at the twilight of their careers took centre stage. However, one man who ensured that people saw him as one for the future was Ayyoub Bouaddi. The teenager held down the midfield for a very competitive Morocco and put himself in the shop window with European giants circling. Biggest disappointment - Brazil The hype around Neymar's return. Don Carlo Ancelotti at the helm. Yet Brazil looked like the furthest thing from Brazil throughout the tournament. Aside from a comfortable win over Scotland, they never looked like they had the balance in the squad right and they were made to pay.Callum Bishop Messi the GOAT leaves World Cup legacy unlike any other Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi No question, it has to be the GOAT. No player has played (34) or won (23) more World Cup games than him. No one has scored in as many matches as him (16 and only Kylian Mbappe (22) has scored more goals than him (21). His contributions against England were crucial. If this is to be his last World Cup, what a legacy he leaves. Goal of the tournament - Sidny Lopes Cabral vs Argentina If World Cup debutants Cape Verde taking the reigning world champions to extra-time was not enough, Cabral produced a moment of magic that almost forced penalties. He cut in off the left, effortlessly dragged the ball past Alexis Mac Allister, tip-toed into the box and bent a beauty into the top-right corner. Moment of the tournament - Cape Verde reach knockouts Bubista's side were written off before the first ball had been kicked, but naysayers were soon forced to swallow their words. The Blue Sharks not only qualified for the knockout stages, but did so after holding both Spain and Uruguay. With spirit and heart in abundance, they shocked the world - and they will be back. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England There are a handful of contenders in this category, but England's win in the Azteca simply has to take it. All the talk beforehand was about whether the Three Lions could handle the altitude; they did that and then some. Breakout star - Johan Manzambi Last season's Europa League Young Player of the Year announced himself to the world with Switzerland's opener against Bosnia-Herzegovina just 166 seconds after his introduction. He added a second later on, a goal and an assist against Canada, then another assist against Algeria in the last 32. Injury prevented him playing again, but he left a lasting impression and will shine at Aston Villa. Biggest disappointment - Cristiano Ronaldo He would have wanted to go out with a bang, but the reality was far from that. Roberto Martinez persisted with his captain despite pressure to drop him given how ineffective he was on the whole. He did score three goals - two against Uzbekistan, one against Croatia - Messi's success will have irked him.Dan Long Tuchel cost England a World Cup final Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi Still delivering at 39 years old. What else is there to say? The best ever. Goal of the tournament - Sidny Lopes Cabral vs Argentina Not only the goal of the tournament but the celebration too. Cape Verde's dream run hit new heights when Sidny Lopes Cabral curled a stunning equaliser into the top right corner during extra-time before ending up in the crowd celebrating with his loved ones. Moment of the tournament - Dan Burn blocking Raul Jimenez's overhead kick Big Dan Burn put his head in where it hurts to deliver a moment that will go down in English football history, not only blocking Raul Jimenez's audacious overhead kick, but sending the ball all the way into the Mexico half without bouncing. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England An absolute all-timer that lived up to its billing. The Azteca. The 2am kick-off. Jude Bellingham's 98-second double. Jarell Quansah's red card. Harry Kane's penalty. England's defensive grit. It had everything. Breakout star - Johan Manzambi Not starting the 20-year-old in the 1-1 draw against Qatar was the only misstep for Switzerland at their best-ever World Cup. Manzambi then scored twice against Bosnia-Herzegovina and added another plus two assists in two more matches. A real shame that injury cut short his tournament. Biggest disappointment - Tuchel's substitutions vs Argentina "They were more afraid to drop out of the tournament, in my observation, than having the excitement and hunger to win it," Thomas Tuchel said of England's Euro 2024 campaign. How ironic. Ezri Konsa coming for goalscorer Anthony Gordon in the 72nd minute showed just how little had changed under Tuchel.David Richardson USA scored biggest own goal in tournament history after Balogun sham decision Player of the tournament - Lionel Messi Nothing more needs said. The greatest to ever do it. Goal of the tournament - Sidny Lopes Cabral vs Argentina There's a few contenders for best strike but you're not giving this one to a Giovanni Reyna fourth against Paraguay. Cabral's finish was magnificent and so was the story around it. Cape Verde are everything the World Cup is about. So was the celebration. Moment of the tournament - Vozinha's interview Not to make this a Cape Verde fan entry but a 40-year-old goalkeeper, who plays for a second-tier club in Portugal, crying in front of hundreds of millions of people and wishing his mum could've been there to watch him. In a world of miserable news, we need more of these moments. Game of the tournament - Mexico 2-3 England It had everything. The Azteca. Lightning delays. VAR controversy. A red card. Five goals. A historic win. And one heck of a defensive unit for those last 20 minutes. Breakout star - Pau Cubarsi The 19-year-old looks like he's been sweeping up at the back for Spain for years. Worth remembering the semi-final win over France was only his 19th cap, and he had won only 12 before this tournament. His stats have ranked among the tournament's best despite his tender years both with and without the ball. A star of the present. Biggest disappointment - USA The USA began the tournament without a huge amount of goodwill from elsewhere for a variety of reasons but slowly began to melt hearts around the globe with a likeable team coached by a likeable manager, playing good - and successful - football. After doubling their knockout wins it looked as though this could be their breakout tournament until Donald Trump's intervention on Folarin Balogun's red card, FIFA's capitulation and then their own collapse under the scrutiny to exit with a whimper against Belgium and any overseas goodwill evaporated, rightly or wrongly.Ron Walker