World Cup news

Thierry Henry has admitted that Spain are vastly superior to France following their dominant 2-0 victory in the World Cup semi-final on Tuesday. The former striker praised La Roja's possession-based system and long-term football identity, explaining exactly why Kylian Mbappe and his teammates struggled against their bitter rivals on the biggest stage.

FIFA's refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has issued a firm rebuttal to Didier Deschamps after the France manager questioned the quality of officiating in their World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain. The Les Bleus boss was visibly frustrated following the 2-0 loss, suggesting that the standards in the crucial clash were not what he expected.

Nottingham Forest are closing in on a significant coup with the addition of experienced midfielder Xaver Schlager on a free transfer. The 28-year-old Austrian international is set to arrive at the City Ground to bolster a midfield that recently lost a key figure to a Premier League giant.

Luka Modric is reportedly ready to extend his stay at San Siro by committing to a new one-year contract with AC Milan. The veteran midfielder has rapidly weighed up his options following Croatia’s disappointing early departure from the 2026 World Cup just a few days ago.

Inter have emerged as shock suitors for Tottenham full-back Djed Spence as they look to defend their Serie A title. The England international is reportedly open to the move after revitalising his career in north London and on the international stage.

Crystal Palace have moved to secure the long-term future of Jean-Philippe Mateta by offering the striker a new contract extension. The south London club are determined to tie down their star forward to prevent any risk of a cut-price departure or a future free transfer.

Emiliano Martinez is reportedly ready to wage war with Aston Villa in order to secure a dream move to Juventus this summer. The Argentina international has grown increasingly frustrated with life in the West Midlands and has identified the Serie A giants as his preferred destination.

Zidane has a verbal agreement to succeed Deschamps after the World Cup. We assess why the change boosts France's Nations League prospects.

Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has been the victim of a terrifying security scare after burglars targeted his Barcelona home in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The incident occurred just hours after the teenager helped La Roja secure their place in the World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over France.

Rayan Cherki could not hide his frustration following France's disappointing 2-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup semi-finals. The Manchester City star hit back at reporters when questioned about the performance of his team-mate Lucas Digne, who endured a night to forget in Dallas.

Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke were expected to make significant contributions to England’s cause at the 2026 World Cup, but Michael Owen has admitted to GOAL that said collection of wingers have “not really worked” out as planned. Thomas Tuchel is yet to settle on a preferred pairing of wide attackers, with no member of a star-studded quartet truly convincing when being given opportunities in which to impress.

England legend Sir Geoff Hurst has crowned Harry Kane as the greatest striker in the nation's history as the Three Lions prepare for a monumental World Cup semi-final clash against Argentina. The 1966 hat-trick hero believes the current captain has surpassed all who came before him, including the icons of England's only triumphant campaign.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic has heaped praise on "magnificent" Manchester City midfielder Rodri after Spain’s clinical victory over France secured their spot in the World Cup final. The legendary Swedish striker also suggested that "football won" after seeing Spain's free-flowing style get the better of a disappointing France side.

Nike has unveiled England's kits for the 2026 World Cup, revealing a fresh look for both the home and away jerseys.

Luis de la Fuente has moved to calm fears regarding Lamine Yamal after the teenage sensation appeared to be struggling physically during Spain's World Cup semi-final win over France. The Roja boss also provided a fitness update on Pedro Porro, who was forced off late in the contest as Spain secured their place in the 2026 showpiece.

Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane have been hogging headlines for England at the 2026 World Cup, with ex-Three Lions star Gary Pallister telling GOAL who has been an unsung hero for Thomas Tuchel’s side. All-action midfielder Elliot Anderson is considered to fit that bill, with the Manchester City new boy putting in the graft that allows others to deliver guile.

Thomas Tuchel has thrown down the gauntlet ahead of England’s monumental World Cup semi-final clash against Argentina, insisting the Three Lions have the blueprint to nullify Lionel Messi. The German tactician believes that while the Inter Miami superstar remains a unique threat, England’s success in silencing Erling Haaland during the quarter-finals proves they can handle the world's most dangerous attackers.