Lionel Scaloni has thrown his support behind Lionel Messi to potentially reach the historic 1,000 career goals milestone, while insisting the Argentina captain does have the "desire" to play at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking after a dominant friendly victory against Zambia, the Albiceleste boss emphasized that the Inter Miami star still possesses the hunger to compete at the very highest level despite already achieving his ultimate dream in Qatar.
Gabriel Martinelli scored a lovely goal after being teed up by Endrick to complete Brazil's 3-1 victory over Croatia in a confidence-boosting World Cup warm-up clash. The Arsenal man's arrowed finish rounded off the scoring in stoppage time as the Selecao bounced back from last week's friendly defeat to France.
Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance at La Bombonera, recording a goal and an assist as Argentina dismantled Zambia 5-0 in their final home fixture before the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami icon captained the world champions to a dominant victory in what is expected to be the last home game he plays for his country.
Thomas Tuchel has refused to entertain suggestions that the weight of the England shirt is getting to his players following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Japan. The Three Lions were booed off at Wembley after Kaoru Mitoma's first-half strike condemned them to a second underwhelming result in the space of four days.
The German national teamâs attack shines even without (and with) Deniz Undav; Lennart Karl is proving himself worthy of more than just a trial run; the defence is holding its own despite the odd wobble; and Julian Nagelsmannâs measures are paying off. The winners and losers at the DFB following the March training camp.
The U.S. played with more intensity and created a fair number of chances to get something from the game, but they never quite got the final details right on either side of the field
Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers manager Michael O'Neill has provoked a fierce backlash from Championship relegation rivals. Balancing his dual roles, the 56-year-old is accused of a major conflict of interest after heavily utilising key players from clubs battling Blackburn for survival in a 1-1 friendly draw, while resting his own prospect until the 80th minute.
Dutch pundit Hans Kraay Jr has launched a scathing attack on the English media, claiming analysts and "self-proclaimed know-it-alls" have lost their minds regarding Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain has faced intense scrutiny this season as the Reds have struggled to maintain their usual high standards at the back.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has doubled down on his commitment to see Iran compete in the 2026 World Cup, despite the escalating military conflict involving the United States. Speaking during a surprise appearance at a friendly match in Turkey, the governing body's chief dismissed suggestions that the team might be relocated or withdrawn from the tournament.
England boss Thomas Tuchel stands accused of insulting Harry Maguire with his claim that the Manchester United defender could be fifth-choice centre-half in his 2026 World Cup plans. Maguire has been drafted back into the Three Lions fold for international friendly action, but has been warned that he may struggle to earn another major tournament spot.
The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Rivaldo made a surprise appearance at Brazilâs training base to inspire a squad currently struggling for form. As the Selecao face growing scrutiny following a 2-1 friendly defeat to France, Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has admitted that the weight of the nation's 2002 World Cup success remains a heavy burden for the modern generation.
Germany striker Deniz Undav has hit out at supporters who targeted Leroy Sane with audible boos during the national team's narrow 2-1 friendly victory over Ghana. Despite Sane providing the crucial assist for the winning goal, his introduction in Stuttgart was marred by a hostile reception from the home crowd. The incident has led to a firm demand for unity from the squad as they prepare for the World Cup.
In light of the growing number of Arsenal players pulling out of the upcoming international match, former England international Gabriel Agbonlahor has called for a clear response from Bayern striker Kane.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi will return to the starting line-up for Tuesday's friendly against Zambia at La Bombonera. The veteran forwardâs inclusion comes as the coaching staff looks to finalise their 26-man roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Scaloni eventually left his press conference while holding back tears after addressing an injury blow for one of the nation's rising stars.
The German national teamâs two friendly wins were accompanied by plenty of discussion about Julian Nagelsmannâs decisions, actions and comments. In the end, the national coach was largely proven right!
England's World Cup group stage opponents Ghana have taken the ruthless decision to sack head coach Otto Addo just 10 weeks before the tournament begins. The Black Stars announced the departure of the former Borussia Dortmund assistant following a narrow 2-1 friendly defeat to Germany in Stuttgart.
First on the bench, then the match-winner, and finally an emotional leader too: Deniz Undav has made the most of his role as a substitute. Still, he shouldnât get his hopes up too much.
National coach Julian Nagelsmann has warned the DFB squad to adapt their style of play ahead of the World Cup, following their 2-1 victory in a friendly against Ghana.
Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has launched a blistering attack on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their controversial decision to strip the Lions of Teranga of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco. The veteran shot-stopper believes administrative failures are actively undermining the immense progress made by the continent's elite players.
Thomas Tuchel has plotted a diplomatic course through the storm that has followed the withdrawals of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka from the England squad, saying the optics may look bad but he has â100% trustâ in their integrity. The Arsenal duo will be unavailable for the clash against Japan at Wembley after reporting discomfort following their recent club commitments.
ATLANTA -- Mauricio Pochettino insisted his full focus is on the World Cup with the USMNT but did not rule out a future return to Tottenham after being asked about the clubâs managerial vacancy following manager Igor Tudorâs dismissal, adding that ânever say neverâ in football. Pochettino last coached Spurs from 2014-19.
Despite being a regular starter for VfB Stuttgart, Deniz Undav is nothing more than a permanent substitute when wearing the DFB jersey. Julian Nagelsmann explains his decisions, whilst Undav provides the perfect response.
Lamine Yamal continues to rewrite the record books for both club and country, but Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes the 18-year-old is only scratching the surface of his potential. Speaking ahead of the friendly against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium, the manager reflected on the incredible trajectory the winger has taken since his senior debut.
After a poor performance against Belgium, Mauricio Pochettino is demanding more from his team - and a bigger role for Gio Reyna could be one of the key decisions vs Portugal.
Florian Wirtz has openly discussed the emotional toll of his challenging start at Liverpool. The talented German playmaker admitted that adapting to the Premier League took a significant physical and emotional toll. However, crucial support from national team coach Julian Nagelsmann helped him overcome these hurdles, leading to a recent return to peak form for his country.
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