World Cup news

Cristiano Ronaldo cut a lonely and frustrated figure as he stormed off the pitch following Portugal's unexpected 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup opener. While the rest of the squad stayed out to acknowledge the significant Portuguese support in Houston, the legendary captain opted for a swift exit to the dressing room.

Canada's biggest World Cup match yet awaits. A win over Qatar would move them closer to the knockout rounds and potentially keep them in Vancouver.

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is set to become a free agent this summer after Villarreal decided against extending his contract. The Liga club have opted not to trigger the 12-month extension clause in his deal. The Ghana international, currently facing trial in the UK over serious allegations, will now be forced to search for a new team ahead of next season.

Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has issued a formal apology following a wave of backlash over offensive comments made during the 2026 World Cup. The ex-Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder was working as a pundit for a Dutch broadcaster when he made a controversial remark regarding the appearance of Japan’s players after their 2-2 draw with the Oranje.

Mexico legend Guillermo "Memo" Ochoa is reportedly set to retire after the 2026 World Cup, ending a career that spanned multiple tournaments, memorable performances and club stops across Mexico and Europe. As El Tri prepare for life after Ochoa, attention is already turning toward the next generation of goalkeepers, led by Raúl "Tala" Rangel.

GOAL takes a look at the big storylines and takeaways in the latest installment of the USMNT notebook.

South Africa attacking midfielder Themba Zwane has been slapped with a three-match suspension by FIFA following his controversial red card during Bafana Bafana's opening 2026 World Cup defeat to Mexico. The severe punishment means the 36-year-old veteran will miss the remainder of the group stage, dealing a massive blow to Hugo Broos and his squad as they desperately seek progression.

Portugal were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by minnows DR Congo in their first World Cup group game, with a Yoane Wissa effort cancelling out Joao Neves' opener. Cristiano Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure up front, while Bernardo Silva also had an afternoon to forget as Roberto Martinez's side failed to live up to their billing as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

Investigative authorities in France have reportedly questioned Ivory Coast international Elye Wahi in relation to serious spot-fixing allegations. The shocking claims involve an intentional yellow card received during a domestic match just weeks before the forward took to the field at the World Cup.

The 2026 World Cup has produced its fair share of emotional storylines, but few resonate as strongly as the journey of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. After a heroic performance against Spain in a match that ended 0-0 and left him in tears over his family's absence, the 40-year-old veteran has received the news he was dreaming of.

Our expert offers his best Iraq vs Norway predictions and betting tips as both nations begin their quest to reach the Round of 32.

How to watch the World Cup match between Portugal and DR Congo, as well as kick-off time and team news

Michael Olise has been hailed as a "future Ballon d'Or winner" following his match-winning performance for France against Senegal at the 2026 World Cup. The Bayern Munich winger's creative masterclass has sparked comparisons to some of the greatest names to ever wear the blue shirt.

How to watch the World Cup match between England and Croatia, as well as kick-off time and team news

Former Sweden international Tomas Brolin has brutally dismissed England's hopes of winning the World Cup this summer. The football legend insists Thomas Tuchel's men, who are chasing their first title since 1966, are severely overrated. Brolin also shared his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo's future and backed Michael Olise to shine on the biggest stage.

Rodrigo De Paul has praised the incredible team mentality of Argentina captain Lionel Messi after his record-equalling hat-trick at the World Cup. Despite tying Miroslav Klose’s all-time tournament goalscoring record, the veteran forward remains entirely focused on collective success rather than individual glory, proving his irreplaceable value to the South American champions.

Spain’s World Cup started with a surprise draw against Cape Verde. Is it worth backing a fit-again Lamine Yamal to improve their performance?