Athletic Club midfielder Oihan Sancet hopes the Basque national team will gain official recognition to compete at a future World Cup. The Spain international voiced his ambition ahead of making his debut for Euskal Selekzioa against Venezuela on Saturday.
Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is poised for a poignant return to former club Athletic Club's San Mames stadium after earning a call-up from the Basque Country representative team. The shot-stopper has been named in the Euskal Selekzioa squad to take on South American visitors Venezuela during next weekend's international friendly in Bilbao.
The Basque Country representative team will return to international action next month after confirming a special friendly fixture against South American opposition in Bilbao. Euskal Selekzioa are set to welcome Venezuela to Athletic Club's iconic home ground on November 14 for a contest steeped in cultural significance.
Nigeria players have boycotted training just two days before a crucial World Cup qualifying play-off against Gabon. The squad have downed tools due to issues with outstanding payments and have demanded a resolution before their next game. The Super Eagles must beat Gabon in their play-off semi-final to have any chance of securing a place at the 2026 World Cup after missing out on automatic qualification in the group phase.
Gio Lo Celso grabbed the only goal as Argentina eased to a 1-0 win over Venezuela in a rather drab international friendly held at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium. The World Cup holders were a little languid as the game wore on in the absence of Lionel Messi, who was rested, but did enough in the first half to secure a narrow win.
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