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Inside Brazil's Main Training Camp for FIFA World Cup 2026

Klopp criticises 'tactically poor' World Cup opener

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has slammed the opening match of the 2026 World Cup as "tactically poor" despite co-hosts Mexico securing a 2-0 win over South Africa. The Red Bull Global Head of Soccer highlighted glaring defensive frailties and a bizarre flurry of red cards that marred the showpiece event at the Azteca Stadium.

World Cup Golden Boot GFX

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot standings

The 2026 World Cup is underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long road ahead as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here are GOAL's predicted candidates for the prize as we keep track of the tournament's most prolific stars

World Cup Golden Ball GFX

World Cup 2026 Golden Ball Power Rankings

The 2026 World Cup is finally underway as all 48 teams begin to fight it out for the universally coveted trophy. While the collective prize is the main objective for all competitors, some will be hoping to make their claim as the best player of the entire tournament. But who are the top contenders and who is leading the race for the prestigious Golden Ball?

Canada v Republic of Ireland - International Friendly

Bayern star Davies ruled out of Canada's World Cup opener

Canada captain Alphonso Davies has been ruled out of his country’s World Cup opening fixture against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Head coach Jesse Marsch confirmed that the Bayern Munich left-back is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in May. Despite the massive setback, the co-hosts remain hopeful of his return later in the group stage.

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Dembele blasts 'very unfair' Mbappe treatment

Ousmane Dembele has leapt to the defence of Kylian Mbappe, claiming criticism of the France captain has become excessive. The Paris Saint-Germain forward argued that scrutiny surrounding his international team-mate often goes beyond football and overlooks the pressure that comes with being one of the game's biggest stars.

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Violent clashes mar Mexico's World Cup opening match

Violent clashes erupted outside the Estadio Azteca on Thursday night, marring the opening match of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City. Riot police deployed tear gas after coming under attack from projectiles, overshadowing co-hosts Mexico's subsequent victory on the pitch as long-standing local political tensions spilled over into the tournament's security perimeter.