Kylian Mbappé

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich met once again in the UEFA Champions League, two years after their previous knockout encounter, but this time with very different identities. The Real Madrid of Álvaro Arbeloa arrived in the middle of an inconsistent season, struggling to find continuity in their performances. Bayern, in contrast, travelled to Estadio Bernabéu […] The post Real Madrid Vs Bayern Munich [1-2] Champions League Quarter-Final First Leg 2025/2026: Vincent Kompany Press & Structure Take Control – Tactical Analysis appeared first on Total Football Analysis.

Everything you need to know about extra time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Kasey Keller's ssessment has stirred attention as he looks beyond Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, focusing instead on a different set of contenders for the tournament. The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is already filled with debate, and one of the most striking opinions comes from former USMNT goalkeeper Kasey Keller. His assessment has stirred attention as he looks beyond Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, focusing instead on a different set of contenders for the tournament. While both legends remain central to global soccer conversations, Keller believes the spotlight is shifting toward other nations. The American’s outlook is clear and direct when discussing the leading candidates for the trophy. He also expressed doubts about the traditional powerhouses led by Messi and Ronaldo, suggesting that their respective teams may struggle to match the intensity and depth of younger squads. His perspective reflects both experience and a cautious reading of current international form. “Can Ronaldo win the World Cup this summer? I don’t see Portugal winning the World Cup. I think they’re good. I look at a few teams. We look at the squad France has; if they get it together, then watch out. Obviously, Spain is very strong. I really like England’s squad-they have to be one of the favorites,” Keller said, via Tribal Football. Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates scoring with Nico Williams. “I don’t see Argentina being able to repeat their success. With no expectations, can Brazil step up when they haven’t necessarily been playing well?” he added. “I personally look at Spain, France, and England. I just hope that with all this hype, it doesn’t become too much. We know English fans get a little excited when they start to have a bit of success,” he added. Why Argentina and Portugal are questioned Keller’s skepticism extends to the reigning champions and one of soccer’s most consistent contenders. He believes Argentina may struggle to defend its title, despite recent success and a strong squad identity. At the same time, Portugal faces similar doubts, with the 56-year-old openly questioning its ability to go all the way. The 2026 World Cup presents a unique contrast between experience and emerging talent. Messi, at 38, and Ronaldo, at 41, represent the last generation of global icons still competing at the highest level. Lionel Messi of Argentina shakes hands with Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal Keller’s analysis suggests that while experience matters, the physical demands of the tournament may favor younger, more dynamic teams. This shift is a key factor in his prediction, as nations like France, England, and Spain continue to evolve. Emerging powers ready to challenge? The teams Keller highlights are not only talented but also structured for sustained success. Kylian Mbappe’s France, with its depth and balance, remains a constant threat, while England, led by Harry Kane, continues to build one of its strongest squads in recent years. Spain, too, is evolving with a new generation of players who blend technical ability with tactical intelligence, starring Lamine Yamal. Keller’s confidence in these teams reflects their consistency in international competitions and their ability to perform under pressure.

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Nicky Bandini and Archie Rhind-Tutt as Arsenal get a late winner against Sporting and Real Madrid and Bayern Munich play out a belter at the Bernabéu On the podcast today: a vital win for Arsenal in the Champions League. Having lost their previous two Arsenal had to find a way and in injury time Gabriel Martinelli drew the defence and Kai Havertz slotted home. Elsewhere, a much better game at the Bernabéu. Should Bayern have put it to bed? Trent Alexander-Arnold’s perfect ball for Kylian Mbappé means the tie remains alive. Plus, there’s a big Easter of Football League action to look back on, a salute to Aaron Ramsey and your questions answered.

On Wednesday's Football Daily, Phil Egan brings you news from the Champions League, the international game and the Premier League. Arsenal take a first-leg advantage after a late 1-0 win away to Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. Substitute Kai Havertz scores stoppage-time winner in Lisbon. Mikel Arteta praises Arsenal’s bench impact ahead of the second leg. Bayern Munich beat Real Madrid 2-1 at the Bernabéu. Goals from Luis Díaz and Harry Kane give Bayern the edge. Kylian Mbappé pulls one back after a cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold. Vincent Kompany insists Bayern will not sit back in the return leg. Antonio Rüdiger says Madrid’s goal could prove vital. Liverpool travel to face Paris Saint-Germain in tonight’s quarter-final first leg. Arne Slot warns Liverpool must improve after recent poor form. Luis Enrique says there is no favourite between PSG and Liverpool. Europa League quarter-finals begin with Sporting Braga hosting Real Betis. Discussion around Benfica prospect Jaden Umeh and a potential Ireland call-up. Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick backed by Amad Diallo. Tribute paid to Romanian football legend Mircea Lucescu following his passing aged 80. Become a member and sign up at offtheball.com/join

A REAL MADRID fan got a haircut at the stands of the Bernabeu during the Champions League match against Bayern Munich. Real suffered a 2-1 loss to Bayern in the first leg of the quarter-finals with Kylian Mbappe hitting back after goals from Luis Diaz and Harry Kane. Thousands of fans filled up the Bernabeu...

Kylian Mbappé scored Madrid's goal after the visitors had taken a two-goal lead at the Santiago Bernabeu

Manuel Neuer was the best goalkeeper in the world in his 20s and 30s, and arguably still is after turning 40 at the end of March. Just ask Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior...

Bayern Munich claimed a crucial 2-1 victory against Real Madrid in their UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Bernabéu, with goals from Luis Díaz and Harry Kane giving the defending Bundesliga champions a deserved advantage in the tie.

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany hailed goalkeeper Manuel Neuer after his team secured a 2-1 Champions League quarter-final first leg win at Real Madrid on Tuesday. Luis Diaz and Harry Kane’s goals gave the Bundesliga leaders a strong lead on a dominant display but Kylian Mbappe pulled one back for Madrid, with Neuer making a […] The post Bayern’s Kompany praises ‘special’ Neuer display in win at Real Madrid appeared first on Soccer America.