World Cup news

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez has revealed what will “retire” Cristiano Ronaldo, with the evergreen Al-Nassr forward still going strong at 41 years of age. Remarkable individual standards at club level have been maintained by the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus superstar. He is preparing to grace a sixth World Cup finals this summer and has been showing no sign of slowing down.

Real Madrid fans can breathe a sigh of relief after reports emerged that Vinicius Junior has avoided a serious injury while on international duty with Brazil. Despite missing training sessions ahead of the Selecao’s clash with Croatia, the winger is not expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

In November, we were treated to the most exhilarating reminder possible of the magic of the World Cup. History was made in Jamaica as Curacao became the smallest nation ever to qualify by holding the Reggae Boys to a 0-0 draw in Kingston. Elsewhere in CONCACAF, Haiti managed to secure a spot at the finals for the first time in 50 years with a 2-0 win over Nicaragua - in spite of the fact that they weren't able to play any games at home because of the ongoing conflict on the Caribbean island.

France head coach Didier Deschamps has expressed his frustration with the logistical challenges and "unprecedented" security measures encountered during Les Bleus' tour of the United States. Speaking ahead of Sunday's friendly against Colombia, the World Cup-winner highlighted the difficulties facing international teams as they navigate American infrastructure.

Paris Saint-Germain superstar Ousmane Dembele has reflected on his meteoric rise to the top of the footballing world, branding his current form as the pinnacle of his professional journey. The winger, recently crowned the 2025 Ballon d'Or winner, believes he has reached a new level of maturity both on and off the pitch.

Thomas Tuchel has shed light on the current defensive hierarchy within the England camp, admitting that several names are currently preferred over Harry Maguire. Despite the Manchester United veteran impressing on his return to the international stage against Uruguay, he faces a significant battle to secure a spot for the upcoming World Cup.

Romelu Lukaku’s relationship with Napoli has reached a critical juncture following his decision to remain in Belgium during the international break. While the club and manager Antonio Conte were left frustrated by his absence from the training ground, new reports suggest a diplomatic effort is underway to repair the damage.

One of Nagelsmann's tactical moves pays off straight away. Karl makes a successful debut, whilst the defence is having an off day.

Results and key players from tonight’s international football fixtures.

Harry Maguire has opened up on his emotional return to the England setup, admitting that Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick played a pivotal role in reviving his international career. After 18 months in the wilderness, the veteran defender is back in the fold and started the Three Lions' World Cup warm-up clash against Uruguay.

Julian Nagelsmann has warned Jamal Musiala that time is fast running out for him to prove his fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The Bayern Munich sensation has been forced to sit out Germany’s latest round of international friendlies as he continues to struggle with a persistent ankle problem.

Reports have surfaced regarding the relationship between Thomas Tuchel and Trent Alexander-Arnold following a cryptic social media post by the Real Madrid defender. This latest snub for the friendlies against Uruguay and Japan means the former Liverpool man has only played one game for his country since Tuchel took charge in March 2025.

With months to go before the opening match, there still appears to be a question mark over Lionel Messi’s participation in the World Cup.

Freddy Adu has told GOAL why Gio Reyna’s unique skillset could be crucial to the USMNT cause at a home World Cup. The United States is, alongside Mexico and Canada, preparing to play host to FIFA’s flagship event in 2026. Reyna is hoping to play a prominent role at that event but, having endured form and fitness issues at club level, has been informed of what he needs to bring to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad in order to make the cut.