World Cup Open Thread | June 25, 2026

The Daily Merengue is the spot to chat about all things football. Don’t worry if you notice a strong Real Madrid (RMCF) preference — it’s right there in the name. Big thanks to the moderators who keep things running smoothly: Kung_Fu_Zizou, Juninho, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, Ezek Ix, and myself, Valyrian Steel.

This World Cup has given us plenty to celebrate. Three matches, three Men of the Match awards — quite the streak.

One question that keeps coming up is whether some player price tags really make sense. It’s worth debating.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JUNE 23: Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K match between Portugal and Uzbekistan at Houston Stadium on June 23, 2026.