World Cup

World Cup news

FBL-WC-2026-ITA-NIR-QUALIFIERS

Buffon confirms resignation from Italy national team role

Gianluigi Buffon has officially stepped down from his position as the delegation chief of the Italy national team following the Azzurri’s devastating failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The legendary former goalkeeper confirmed his departure shortly after FIGC President Gabriele Gravina also resigned from his post.

Advertisement
Max Dowman Arsenal 2025-26

Unique Dowman quality used as reason for England WC selection

A unique quality possessed by Max Dowman has been used as a reason why the 16-year-old Arsenal wonderkid should be included in England’s 2026 World Cup squad. The talented teenager is yet to start a Premier League fixture, but has become that division’s youngest goal-scorer during one of three outings off the bench. Bryan Robson is among those that believe Dowman could be a useful wildcard for England this summer.

United States v Portugal - International Friendly

Why USMNT & Spurs ‘dual job’ wasn’t an option for Pochettino

Brad Friedel has explained to GOAL why Mauricio Pochettino will never have been open to the idea of a “dual job” that saw him coach both Tottenham and the USMNT. Spurs recently found themselves back in the market for a new manager after bringing Igor Tudor’s ill-fated 44-day tenure to a close. Former fan favourite Pochettino saw a return to north London speculated on, but he has World Cup plans to focus on this summer.

Italy World Cup failure GFX

Italy may never recover from third World Cup apocalypse

Gianluigi Donnarumma was one of just a number of Italy players reduced to tears by Tuesday's World Cup play-off loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina - but the penalty shootout defeat in Zenica hit the goalkeeper harder than most. This wasn't the first time he'd been involved in a failed attempt to qualify - it was the third. Despite his devastation, though, Donnarumma remained defiant.