Spain's devastation after defeat in last summer's European Championship final was palpable. There is perhaps no crueller way to lose than on penalties and that theory was backed up by the heartbreak on show by La Roja's players and staff after England fought back to take the game in Basel to extra time and then defeat the world champions 3-1 via spot-kicks. "Very cruel," was how Aitana Bonmati, the three-time Ballon d'Or winner, put it. "It will hurt for some time."
The US President is seeking to strengthen his influence in the world of football.
This strategic push, though light on specifics so far, is being watched closely by stakeholders across the sport. From domestic leagues to international governing bodies, officials are weighing how the White House might leverage diplomatic, economic, and cultural levers to expand American interests on and off the pitch.
In recent years, football—or soccer, as it is known in the United States—has emerged as a powerful soft-power tool for nations seeking to project influence, attract investment, and build global partnerships. The world’s most popular sport commands billions of fans, making it an attractive arena for political leaders aiming to amplify their messages and forge new alliances.
While the details of the President’s plan remain unclear, several potential avenues are under consideration. These include hosting high-profile tournaments, investing in youth development programs, and using the sport as
England's qualifying campaign for the 2027 Women's World Cup is officially underway. The Lionesses started it with a 6-1 win over Ukraine on Tuesday and will continue their quest to secure a place in Brazil when hosting Iceland on Saturday. As runners-up in 2023, few would not expect Sarina Wiegman's side to achieve as much, but who the manager will choose to represent the European champions in South America is a little less certain.
The PSL was founded in 1996 after the National Soccer League and the National Professional Soccer League agreed to merge into one body.
Who sponsors the Premier Soccer League?
In July 2024 it was announced that Betway would take over from DSTV as the naming rights sponsor for the league in a deal reported to be worth R900 million over 3 years.
How many teams are in the PSL?
16 teams are licensed to participate in the PSL league.
Who runs the PSL?
The Board of governors elects the chairman and the executive committee who are appointed in an election process that takes place every four years.
Who has won the league title the most?
Mamelodi Sundowns have won the league 14 times, including the last 7 titles in a row.
Which club holds the record for the most goals scored in a season?
Kaizer Chiefs scored 73 goals in the 2010-2011 season.
Which club has amassed the most points in a single PSL season?
Mamelodi Sundowns earned 73 points while winning the league title in the 2023-24 season.
Which player scored the most goals in a single PSL season?
Collins Mbesuma for Kaizer Chiefs in the 2004-05 season.
Who holds the PSL appearance record?
Edries Burton made 316 appearances for Santos Cape Town, Cape Town Spurs and AmaZulu.