World Cup News

Scotland and Belgium cannot be separated in a tense Women's World Cup qualifying match.

Il difensore dissipa le nubi sulla settimana giallorossa prima della gara con l'Atalanta

Le parole in conferenza stampa del capitano dei bianconeri, fresco di rinnovo contrattuale.

Antonio Conte will look to Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund for Napoli’s...

L'analisi di Sandro Sabatini sulla gara vinta nettamente dall'Inter.

Johnny Cardoso will seek his first trophy lift as an Atletico Madrid player on Saturday. Cardoso and his Atletico Madrid teammates will take on Pellegrino Matarazzo‘s Real Sociedad squad in the Copa Del Rey Final in Seville. Atletico Madrid have hit a worrying run in La Liga play but remain alive for a first trophy ... Read more

The father of Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany proudly wore a Bayern scarf in the Belgian parliament on Thursday, less than 24 hours after the Bavarians put four past Real Madrid to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League.

And then there were four. Mac and Martyn attempt to make sense of another French failure against their arch nemesis but give some justified praise for an excellent West German defensive performance. Belgium did everything right for the best part of an hour before the real Diego masterclass from Mexico got underway. If you want weekly exclusive bonus shows, join our Nessun Dorma community chat, want your episodes without ads and a couple of days earlier or just want to support the podcast, then head over to ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/NessunDormaPodcast⁠⁠⁠ where you can subscribe for only $3.99 a month (less than 75p a week!). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FOX Soccer analyst Stu Holden joined The Herd to discuss the expectations of the USA ahead of the World Cup.

As the global stage prepares for its biggest edition yet, questions about participating nations, mainly Iran, have added an extra layer of intrigue. The countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues to build momentum, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino stepping forward to address one of the most discussed uncertainties surrounding the tournament. As the global stage prepares for its biggest edition yet, questions about participating nations, mainly Iran, have added an extra layer of intrigue. The tournament itself is shaping up to be historic in every sense. Set to feature 48 teams for the first time, the competition is expected to generate more than $11 billion in revenue, underlining its massive global appeal. With matches spread across multiple host nations, anticipation continues to grow among fans and stakeholders alike. The 2026 edition promises to redefine the scale of international soccer. With 48 teams divided into 12 groups, followed by an expanded knockout phase, the structure introduces a new level of competition and opportunity. This format ensures more nations are involved, increasing both representation and unpredictability. Also, more than 500 million ticket requests have already been recorded, highlighting the event’s reach across all continents. As speculation intensified, FIFA moved to clarify its stance on Iran’s participation. “The Iranian team is coming for sure,” Infantino told CNBC, firmly addressing the uncertainty surrounding the situation. His statement confirmed that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup, putting an end to weeks of doubt. Infantino emphasized the fundamental principle behind the decision. “They represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play,” he explained, reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to sporting merit. Keeping the focus on soccer Beyond the confirmation itself, Infantino highlighted a deeper philosophy guiding FIFA’s decisions. “Sports should be outside of politics,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges while maintaining a clear stance. The aim is to preserve the tournament as a platform for unity and competition, regardless of external circumstances. He also acknowledged the realities of the world while defending this approach. “We don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth,” Infantino said, before adding that FIFA continues to work toward building connections through soccer. These remarks underline the balance between idealism and practicality in organizing a global event. Alireza Jahanbakhsh of Iran celebrates during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifiers Iran’s road ahead for the tournament Looking ahead, the focus shifts back to the competition itself. Iran is scheduled to play its group-stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, with games set to take place in major U.S. cities. If successful, further matches would continue within the same host nation as the tournament progresses. The broader objective remains ensuring a successful and secure event. “A win would be that we have a successful World Cup from a security point of view, so no incidents,” Infantino explained. Delivering high-quality matches while maintaining safety standards stands at the core of FIFA’s vision.

Vincent Kompany likens Bayern’s UEFA Champions League Quarter Final win over Real Madrid to Burnley doing the double over Blackburn. His side will take on holders Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals after seeing off Real Madrid in a thrilling 4-3 win (6-4 on aggregate). But will talking to the media after the game, he couldn’t […] The post Vincent Kompany likens Bayern’s win over Real Madrid to Burnley doing the double over Blackburn appeared first on Fan Banter.

Quanti temi affrontati dal numero uno nerazzurro

The mood around Ibrox has changed completely as the Scottish Premiership moves into the final phase this April. Following a messy start to the season, Danny Rohl has tightened things up for the Rangers, giving the squad a much clearer sense of direction on the pitch. You can see that shift in the recent scorelines, […] The post Rangers Are Bracing Up For Offers For 12 G/A Player: Can The Gers Justify Keeping Their Star? appeared first on The 4th Official - A view from the sideline.

Emozioni e spettacolo al ritorno degli ottavi di finale in Champions League.

Chelsea and Belgium legend Eden Hazard has shared his thoughts on Rayan Cherki being Kevin De Bruyne’s successor at Manchester City. Cherki joined Manchester City as their third signing of the previous summer window from Lyon on a five-year contract as the Blues planned for life beyond De Bruyne, who joined Napoli as a free […]

Watch the highlights as Scotland score in stoppage time to salvage a World Cup qualification draw with Belgium.

Let's answer the four biggest questions following Matt Crocker's decision to step down as U.S. Soccer's sporting director.

Il 30 aprile si avvicina, la FIFA si pronuncerà sulla questione Iran: vediamo cosa succederà e perché gli Azzurri sperano ancora.

It’s time to take a look at the upcoming football matches set to appear live on our TV screens this week, so here’s a rundown. It’s set to be another busy week of action with a full batch of football live scores to keep an eye on across the world. Take a look below at […] The post Football matches live on TV this week appeared first on Fan Banter.

Johnny Cardoso, who has missed the first three games since his return from USMNT duty, is expected to dress for Atlético Madrid on Tuesday when it hosts Barcelona in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal series. Cardoso, who departed Atlanta after the USMNT’s 5-2 loss to Belgium with discomfort in his leg, has […] The post Johnny Cardoso available for Atlético Madrid-Barcelona appeared first on Soccer America.

Tyler Adams made his return to the Bournemouth squad on Saturday, helping the Cherries throw another wrench into the Premier League title race. Adams came off the bench and played 20 minutes as Andoni Iraola’s men shocked league-leading Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium. It marked the U.S. men’s national team midfielder’s first appearance since ... Read more

Johnny Cardoso is reportedly set to be back amongst Diego Simeone’s options this week at Atletico Madrid. Cardoso returned to training on Sunday ahead of Atletico Madrid’s UEFA Champions League second leg tie vs. Barcelona on Tuesday, Mundo Deportivo reported. The American midfielder has not featured for the La Liga club since March 18 after ... Read more

Jeremy Doku believes the outcome of next weekend's summit meeting between Manchester City and Arsenal will decide the destination of the Premier League title.

The USMNT lost two friendly matches to Belgium and Portugal ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Martyn, Mike and Rob settle down to revisit one of the great weekends in World Cup history. France and Brazil produce a classic and a goal that would be lionised if the result had been different, the hosts suffer a fate that many will over the years: defeat to West Germany on penalties, the surprise package carry on and England v Argentina provides enough for an entire series. France v Brazil - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZ6pRNMS4KE Mexico v West Germany - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UI46dXRrj9E England v Argentina - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3382Hx8pag Spain v Belgium - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQRWxyRm_og If you want weekly exclusive bonus shows, join our Nessun Dorma community chat, want your episodes without ads and a couple of days earlier or just want to support the podcast, then head over to ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/NessunDormaPodcast⁠⁠⁠ where you can subscribe for only $3.99 a month (less than 75p a week!). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After being a serious target of the MLS, Kevin De Bruyne has yet to decide his future once his deal expires at Napoli. Kevin De Bruyne was one of MLS‘s primary targets during the final months of his time at Manchester City, though it was ultimately Napoli who landed his signature back in 2024. Now, the Belgian legend has admitted he has yet to make a decision on his future beyond the Italian club, leaving the door open for MLS to make another run at one of the game’s finest midfielders. After his contract expired at Manchester City in June 2024, De Bruyne chose to remain in Europe rather than make the move to North America, signing with Napoli. In his first season, he became a central figure in Antonio Conte’s system, helping the club claim their fourth Scudetto in the 2024-25 season, but his longer-term future has been left unanswered. In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, De Bruyne was asked whether Napoli would be his final club. “I don’t know that yet; I’m not thinking about it right now. I’m not that type of person. I still have a contract, and I’m truly happy in Naples. I’m trying to enjoy the moment now. I believe I can still play for a few more years, then when my body tells me to stop, I will. But for now, I feel good,” he said. De Bruyne, currently 34, turns 35 in June and is under contract through the end of the 2026-27 season, by which point he will be 36. With more than a year remaining on his deal and a firmly established role at Napoli, a departure ahead of next season seems unlikely at this stage. Kevin De Bruyne #7 of Belgium. When asked about the prospect of retirement, De Bruyne left open the possibility of one more chapter in his playing career. “When will I stop? I really don’t know. Certainly, there will be nothing at first, because I’ll want to enjoy my family, who have made so many sacrifices for me. Then I’ll have to find something to do, obviously. In the near future, however, I just want to continue playing football, giving my best to stay at the highest level possible. I feel good, I’m happy, and my family is happy for me,” he said. Could De Bruyne end up in MLS? As his contract with Manchester City wound down, De Bruyne was linked with a potential move to Inter Miami to team up with Lionel Messi, or alternatively as a Designated Player for the then-new expansion franchise San Diego FC. BBC Sport later reported that Chicago Fire had emerged as the frontrunners, holding the discovery rights for the Belgian midfielder. Although De Bruyne ultimately chose Napoli, Chicago are expected to still hold those discovery rights, and with Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba currently occupying two of the club’s three DP slots, there is room for a marquee addition. By the time his Napoli contract expires, De Bruyne will be 36, putting him in a similar position to Thomas Muller when he joined the Vancouver Whitecaps, and potentially making him the latest global name to make his mark in MLS.

Patrick Agyemang's season-ending injury headlines this week's USA Stock Watch.

Christian Pulisic’s international teammate Patrick Agyemang was expected to shape the United States’ attacking identity heading into the 2026 World Cup, yet he is now facing a heartbreaking setback. Christian Pulisic’s international teammate Patrick Agyemang was expected to shape the United States’ attacking identity heading into the 2026 World Cup, yet he is now facing a heartbreaking setback. The USMNT suffered a major blow when the Derby County striker sustained a serious injury that immediately ruled him out of the tournament. Agyemang’s injury came during Derby’s 2-0 win over Stoke City in the EFL Championship, a match that had initially looked routine for the club. The 25-year-old was stretchered off after landing awkwardly, with staff and teammates immediately sensing the severity of the moment. Derby later confirmed in a statement that he had suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury. The club announced, “Patrick will be undergoing a further assessment of the injury later today.” It continued with a message of support, saying: “The club will provide Patrick with the highest level of medical care and rehabilitation throughout his recovery. Everyone at Derby County is fully behind Patrick at this difficult time and will continue to support him every step of the way.” The United States had penciled Agyemang into its plans after he impressed in recent windows. He featured during March’s friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, scoring in the 5-2 defeat to Belgium, and had become one of the more promising attacking options under Mauricio Pochettino. The striker’s return of six national-team goals from 14 games, paired with his ten league strikes this season, made him a strong contender for the final roster. The club can confirm Patrick Agyemang suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury during the first half of the Sky Bet Championship fixture against Stoke City. We're all with you, Pat. 🖤 — Derby County (@dcfcofficial) April 7, 2026 Pochettino now faces a significant tactical decision as he reassesses the player pool. The absence of Agyemang, who had recently fit seamlessly into the coach’s plans, leaves a noticeable gap in the attacking rotation. His progress since leaving the MLS for England’s second division had positioned him on the rise, making the setback even more devastating. What did Agyemang say on social media? The most touching moment came when Agyemang finally addressed the situation publicly. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he opened up: “Man, words can’t really describe the moment I realized what happened. You can only imagine the thoughts going through my head… but that’s life sometimes.” He continued with gratitude, saying: “First, I just want to thank God for everything He’s done in my life and for all that’s still to come. Also, [I] wanted to say thank you all for the love, messages, and support. It’s been amazing and truly touched my heart. “I’ll be back soon, don’t worry.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pat Agyemang (@patrick_agyy) Who steps in for USMNT now? Folarin Balogun is expected to lead the line, with the striker delivering consistently for the national team. Ricardo Pepi remains another reliable figure due to his form for PSV, while Haji Wright’s strong Championship record of 16 goals for Coventry makes him almost certain to be included. Wright also brings experience from the 2022 World Cup, giving him an edge in squad discussions. Christian Pulisic of the United States As per football360, Mauricio Pochettino may even consider shifting Christian Pulisic or Timothy Weah centrally if he wants to adjust the balance of the squad. Such a move would open space in the wide areas while maintaining firepower up front.

When it comes to big stages, this continent is always well represented by historic national teams such as Brazil, Argentina or Uruguay… but this time, there seems to be room for surprises. Over the last few years, the CONMEBOL campaign for the World Cup has been very competitive. In fact, four of the six… The post South America: The Place of the Dark Horses for the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Everton centre-back Kenzie Weir gets a maiden call to the Scotland squad for next week's World Cup qualifying double header against Belgium.

Chelsea face a decision over what to do about Diego Moreira, who currently plays for sister club Strasbourg. That is because Borussia Dortmund want the 21-year old left-sided Belgium player, but Chelsea retain a buyback option. The London club signed him from Benfica in 2023, and he made his debut in an EFL Cup tie... The post Chelsea face Moreira decision appeared first on Footie Central.

Thibaut Courtois has missed Real Madrid's Champions League match against Bayern Munich due to a thigh injury.

United States international Patrick Agyemang will miss his home World Cup after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury.

Derby striker was stretchered off after awkward landing 25-year-old had scored for US in friendly v Belgium US national team striker Patrick Agyemang will miss this summer’s World Cup after suffering a “serious” achilles tendon injury during Derby County’s 2-0 win over Stoke City on Monday, the club said. The 25-year-old, who is in his first season at Derby, rose to settle a ball in the 37th minute and landed awkwardly. Play stopped for five minutes before he was stretchered off by medical staff.

Losses to Belgium and Portugal in World Cup tuneups do not bode well for Mauricio Pochettino's plans to reach at least the World Cup semifinals.

Rangers midfielder Jodi McLeary replaces Celtic counterpart Maria McAneny in the Scotland squad for next week's World Cup qualifying double header against Belgium.

Two USA stars were back in action for the Italian Serie A teams with Weston McKennie scoring and Christian Pulisic struggling.

USA's Patrick Agyemang’s World Cup hopes are in doubt after he was helped off the field during a game for Derby County.

U.S. men's national team striker Folarin Balogun scored the difference-making goal as Monaco defeated rival Marseille, 2-1.

Derby County striker Patrick Agyemang will miss the World Cup this summer after picking up a serious Achilles injury. USA international Agyemang left the pitch on a stretcher in tears after going d…

In the history of World Cups, there have been many scandalous refereeing errors; Belgium experienced one of the greatest of them all. #belgium #argentina #scandal #offside #refereeerror #maradona #teambus #bankofsport

Possible Arsenal starting XI against Southampton, injury team news and how to watch the FA Cup quarter-final on TV and live stream today.

For the U.S. national team, the March international window was both a gut check and a gut punch. The gap was wide at times between the USMNT and the top-tier European teams it faced. Mauricio Pochettino’s team had decent moments in both games, but both Belgium and Portugal raised their levels to a height the […] The post USMNT’s March backslide: Formation changes leave even more to untangle appeared first on Soccer America.

Roberto Mancini is one of three candidates drawn up to replace Gennaro Gattuso as Italy boss, talkSPORT understands. Gattuso has officially stepped down from his role following their failure to qua…

The Belgium midfielder hints at the Red Devils’ reason for crashing out of the tournament 10 years ago

Mauricio Pochettino faces several tough decisions to name a squad for the 2026 World Cup hosts A full 24 matches into the Mauricio Pochettino era, we have arrived at the moment of truth. The US men’s national team’s 2026 World Cup roster will be named on 26 May, and the team’s two recent friendlies (a 5-2 loss to Belgium and a 2-0 loss to Portgual) have given Pochettino plenty to think about as he makes his selection. We here at the Guardian have made our picks as well – based a little on our own preference, but still within the realm of what Pochettino may do. Separately, the three of us made our 26-man rosters. Any player who we agreed on got the “on the squad” designation. Anyone we differed on is listed as “up for debate”, with other notable exclusions listed as “out of the picture”.

Even though they failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties in the playoff semi-finals, Wales are currently undergoing an exciting tactical revolution under Craig Bellamy. It’s the 46-year-old Welshman’s first-ever managerial job outside of the academy level, and he is already showing his tactical acumen. For many […] The post Craig Bellamy Tactics At Wales 2026: Transforming The Dragons’ Identity – Tactical Analysis appeared first on Total Football Analysis.