Russia Overview

Iran recall star striker Sardar Azmoun for upcoming friendlies

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has offered Sardar Azmoun an international reprieve by naming the prolific frontman in his 26-man squad for upcoming friendly fixtures against Uzbekistan and Russia. The Dubai-based forward returns to Team Melli four months after being controversially omitted from the World Cup following friction with national authorities.

Russia handed partial return to FIFA competition

World football’s governing body has taken a significant step toward reintegrating Russia into the international fold after including their youth side in a new tournament. The move marks the first major softening of the stance against the nation since the widespread sporting ban was implemented four years ago.

Spain v Cabo Verde: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

How have debutant teams performed at the FIFA World Cup?

Four nations made debuts at the 2026 World Cup, with Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan gracing the grandest stage in international football for the first time. It was the tournament with the most newcomers since 2006 and Cape Verde achieved the feat of ending a 16-year wait for a debutant to reach the knockout stages, before succumbing to Lionel Messi's Argentina in a classic.

Russia's ban should 'definitely' be lifted, says Infantino

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has sparked fresh controversy by declaring that Russia’s ban from international football should "definitely" be lifted. In a wide-ranging and explosive interview, the Swiss official argued that the exclusion has failed to achieve its goals and has only created "frustration," while also doubling down on his decision to award United States president Donald Trump a bespoke "peace prize."

Argentina lined up for friendly in Moscow despite Russia ban

Argentina are reportedly set to play a friendly match in Moscow - despite the Russian national team being banned by FIFA.

President Trump Announces 2027 NFL Draft To Be Held On The National Mall

Trump says Russia playing at World Cup could be 'incentive' to end Ukraine war

U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Russia playing at the 2026 World Cup could offer an "incentive" to end the war in Ukraine.

Pos	Team		P	W	D	L	F	A	+/-	PTS	Form
1	Middlesbrough	0 - 0	14	8	5	1	30	17	13	29	D W W D W
2	Birmingham City		14	7	5	2	26	13	13	26	W W L W W
3	Stoke City		14	8	2	4	22	17	5	26	W W D W L
4	Swansea City		14	8	2	4	21	16	5	26	L W L L W
5	West Bromwich Albion		14	7	4	3	20	15	5	25	D W D W W

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