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World Cup

World Cup news

Mikel Oyarzabal - Spain vs Peru 2026

Six in a row! Oyarzabal fires World Cup favourites Spain past Peru

Tournament favourites Spain wrapped up their final preparations ahead of the World Cup with a convincing 3-1 friendly victory over Peru in Puebla. Real Sociedad attacker Mikel Oyarzabal continued his magnificent individual form by netting for the sixth successive international match, setting a confident tone for La Roja's upcoming campaign.

Michael Olise France 2026

Hat-trick hero Olise puts on a show in final France warm-up

Michael Olise scored three and France overcame a brief scare from Northern Ireland to wrap up their pre-World Cup friendlies with a comfortable 3-1 win. The Bayern Munich star was effective throughout and good value for his hat-trick as Les Bleus saw off the visitors without really getting out of second gear. It's hard to imagine a better result before France move to the U.S.

England v Japan - International Friendly

Mainoo wows England stars with training ground skill

Kobbie Mainoo continues to establish himself as one of the most technically gifted players in the England setup, even leaving his teammates in awe during training. The Manchester United midfielder has been singled out for his incredible close control as Thomas Tuchel’s side prepares for World Cup action in the United States.

Spain v Serbia - International Friendly

Yamal explains why losing Ballon d’Or to Dembele was ‘good’

Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal has opened up on the moment he thought he had secured football’s most prestigious individual honour, only to see it slip away. The teenager admitted that failing to beat Ousmane Dembele to the Ballon d’Or actually served as a vital catalyst for his recent personal growth and maturity.

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Brazil v Panama - International Friendly

Neymar uses NASA tech for injury comeback

Neymar is pulling out all the stops to ensure he is fit for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup campaign, including the use of specialised space-age equipment. The Selecao icon, who is undergoing intensive rehabilitation for a chronic calf injury in New Jersey, was spotted sporting a fresh haircut.

Gavi Rodri Spain

De la Fuente defends Gavi over Rodri tackle

Luis de la Fuente has robustly defended Gavi after the Barcelona youngster faced a backlash for a heavy challenge on team-mate Rodri during a Spain training session. Despite the tackle causing a brief injury scare for the Manchester City anchor, the national team boss insisted he has no desire to see the midfielder tone down his aggressive style.

Jude Bellingham Morgan Rogers England Albania 2025

Bellingham handed ‘14 or 15 starters’ warning by England boss

Thomas Tuchel has sent a clear message to Jude Bellingham, warning the Real Madrid superstar that his place in England’s starting XI is far from guaranteed. Despite his status as one of the world's elite talents, Bellingham faces stiff competition from Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers for the coveted number 10 role heading into the World Cup.

Christian Pulisic, USMNT

EXCLUSIVE: Inside the mind of Christian Pulisic

Throughout the last few years, American soccer has routinely pleaded with Christian Pulisic to acknowledge reality. The question has come in different forms, but it has always circled the same idea: Does he feel the weight of being the face of the U.S. men's national team heading into a home World Cup?

Portugal v Republic of Ireland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

📽️ | ‘Tricks from the GOAT!’ - Ronaldo teaches his children

Cristiano Ronaldo has trademarked some of the most iconic moves in football history, and it seems the Al-Nassr superstar is already passing those secrets down to the next generation. In a heartwarming clip shared on social media, the legendary forward took time away from his intense World Cup preparations to host a private coaching session in his own backyard.

Stefan Effenberg

"Public Enemy Number One": How Stefan Effenberg sabotaged his once-promising DFB career

Stefan Effenberg was once hailed as German football's greatest hope. Yet instead of turning his considerable ability into a glittering career, he infamously flipped the bird to supporters and was shown the exit door by the DFB during the 1994 World Cup. Clashes with teammates, an affair with a teammate's wife, drink-driving convictions and an autobiography laden with erotic photos and spelling mistakes only reinforced his rebellious reputation. This is Part 14 of our Rebel United series.