World Cup news

Pep Guardiola has launched a stinging attack on U.S. president Donald Trump’s administration following the deaths of Renee Good and nurse Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE agents. The Manchester City manager delivered an impassioned defence of human rights during a press conference, breaking his usual silence to condemn "genocide" in Palestine and demand compassion for migrants crossing the English Channel.

ITV plans to take advantage of the BBC's cut-price coverage to win the battle of the broadcasters at this summer's World Cup. While the BBC will not have a studio in North America for the group stage, their rivals have decided to base themselves in the heart of New York from the outset, and they plan to have an all-star cast of pundits to 'blow their competitors out of the water'.

Yazbek tells GOAL why Australia is circling the USMNT clash, how MLS has changed him, and why the World Cup feels within reach.

Lionel Messi has reportedly given the “green light” to a sensational transfer that would include a “no away games” stipulation. The Argentine GOAT has extended his contract at MLS Cup winners Inter Miami through 2028, but wants to ensure that he is ready for World Cup duty in 2026. That could mean returning to Europe on a short-term deal, with Galatasaray ready to throw open their doors.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has sparked fresh controversy by declaring that Russia’s ban from international football should "definitely" be lifted. In a wide-ranging and explosive interview, the Swiss official argued that the exclusion has failed to achieve its goals and has only created "frustration," while also doubling down on his decision to award United States president Donald Trump a bespoke "peace prize."

Lionel Messi is yet to officially confirm his participation at the 2026, but Inter Miami boss and fellow countryman Javier Mascherano appears to have revealed that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will form part of Argentina’s plans. The expectation has always been that Messi, who captured a global crown in 2022, will grace at least one more major tournament as captain of his country.

This is Legacy, GOAL’s podcast and feature series that counts down to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we dive into Saudi Arabia’s journey: from Saeed Al-Owairan’s unforgettable, Diego Maradona-like run in 1994, to that stunning night in Qatar when the Green Falcons humbled Lionel Messi and Argentina. This is a story of belief, resilience and a legacy that never dies...

With the World Cup just months away, GOAL looks at how the Canada squad might look in the summer.

AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez has jokingly declared that he is prepared to “kill” club colleague Christian Pulisic if Mexico cross paths with the USMNT on 2026 World Cup duty. The pair have struck up quite the bond at San Siro, as they regularly watch NFL action together, but friendship will be put to one side if they lock horns in the international arena.

Enigmatic Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has seen his behaviour criticised again, with supposed “arrogance” on the Argentine’s part being called out by an international goalkeeping rival. Uruguayan shot-stopper Sergio Rochet does not “like the way” a fellow South American is - despite the World Cup winner being considered “phenomenal” at his job.

Jude Bellingham has suffered a serious injury scare during England’s countdown to the 2026 World Cup. The Real Madrid midfielder was left clutching at his hamstring during a La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano. He was clearly in some pain, after crumpling to the turf, and has handed untimely fitness concerns to Blancos boss Alvaro Arbeloa and Three Lions manager Thomas Tuchel.

Endrick has addressed speculation over his long-term future after the striker opened up on his “almost perfect” start to life at Lyon following his loan move from Real Madrid. The Brazil international has well and truly hit the ground running in Ligue 1, scoring four goals in just three games, leading to talk his temporary spell in France could even be extended.

Former Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang is enjoying one of the best stretches of his season in the Championship, scoring his ninth league goal - three in his last four matches - for Derby County. With the World Cup set to be played on home soil, Agyemang is sending a clear message to USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino as he tries to kick the door down and force his way into the squad.

Former England defender Phil Jones has shown his backing of the Three Lions and captain Harry Kane ahead the World Cup, calling for the Bayern Munich striker to win the Golden Boot in North America this summer and lead England to winning the trophy for the first time since 1966. Speaking exclusively with GOAL, Jones was asked to predict his winners and losers of the tournament and said he believes Germany will 'crash and burn'.

Paul Pogba is being sensationally tipped to make France’s 2026 World Cup squad, with Bacary Sagna telling GOAL why the mercurial midfielder remains in contention for selection by Didier Deschamps. Pogba is now on the books at Monaco, but remains short on match sharpness after serving an 18-month doping ban. He has 91 international caps to his name.

U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino declined to engage in the debate over World Cup ticket prices, stressing that neither he nor his players should comment on FIFA’s decisions. Responding to remarks made by Timothy Weah, Pochettino reiterated that the sole responsibility of the USMNT is to prepare, compete and perform on the pitch.

GOAL breaks down the key takeaways from Pochettino as the U.S. ramp up their World Cup build-up.