World Cup

World Cup news

Because Hoeneß is contradicting himself! A VfB Stuttgart hero faces a bitter fate at the hands of the DFB

Hardly any other player embodies VfB Stuttgart’s meteoric rise under manager Sebastian Hoeneß – from relegation candidates to a top-flight club – more than Maximilian Mittelstädt. Yet this summer, the success story faces a bittersweet conclusion.

Stones to MISS World Cup? Tuchel urged to drop Man City star

John Stones is facing a fight to save his international career after former Premier League defender Anton Ferdinand sensationally called for the Manchester City man to be axed from England's World Cup squad. The treble-winner has endured a nightmare period with fitness, leading to questions over whether he can still be trusted on the biggest stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino Attends US Conference Of Mayors In Washington, DC

FIFA and YouTube strike World Cup deal

FIFA has officially announced a landmark partnership with YouTube ahead of the 2026 World Cup, aimed at revolutionising how the tournament reaches a digital-first audience. The deal will allow official rights holders to leverage the world’s largest video platform to showcase live action and classic content to fans across the globe.

Iran v Qatar: Semi Final - AFC Asian Cup

Iran 'negotiating with FIFA' to move World Cup matches from U.S. to Mexico

The Iranian Football Federation has entered urgent discussions with FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup group-stage fixtures from the United States to Mexico. Citing severe security concerns following a dramatic escalation in geopolitical tensions, Iranian officials claim they cannot ensure the safety of their squad on American soil. This unprecedented request threatens to disrupt the logistics of the first-ever expanded 48-team tournament.

Ex-Spain coach reveals confusion after Luis Enrique sacked him

Former Spain assistant coach Robert Moreno has broken his silence on the "tsunami" that followed his high-profile sacking by Luis Enrique. Moreno opened up about the personal toll of being branded a villain after Luis Enrique's return to the national team.

LEGACY: Canada's World Cup rebirth

This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast 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. Today we dive into how Canada stopped waiting for permission, learned to believe again, and transformed a World Cup dream into a defining moment - with an even bigger stage now waiting for them on home soil.

'I can't keep this quiet' - Neymar speaks out after Brazil squad omission

Neymar has expressed his deep disappointment after being left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil squad. Although he recently managed to play the full 90 minutes for Santos, the legendary forward faces a race against time to prove his fitness for the 2026 World Cup.

Ancelotti Delays Neymar’s Brazil Return but Keeps World Cup Door Open

Carlo Ancelotti has omitted Neymar from his latest Brazil squad for the upcoming high-profile friendlies against France and Croatia. Despite the Santos forward returning to domestic football at the weekend after a lengthy injury, the Italian tactician believes the 34-year-old superstar is not yet at the physical level required to represent the national team.

Canada and Nike release 'Full Tilt' 2026 World Cup kits

With the World Cup less than three months out, Canada have revealed their new World Cup kits designed by Nike. Titled 'Full Tilt,' the kits are meant to embody the country's extreme landscapes and confident culture. It also follows Canada Soccer's 'True North' theme - which the team says is shaped by authenticity, resilience and ambition. Canada will debut their new kits during their March fixtures.

2022-World-Cup-Match-Between-USA-And-Iran-in-Qatar

Iran can still compete at World Cup, says AFC chief

Windsor John, the general secretary of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), has confirmed that Iran remain on track to compete in the World Cup being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The official addressed the mounting uncertainty that has surrounded the team’s involvement due to the volatile geopolitical landscape, even though Iran's sports minister has already ruled out competing in North America.

Ancelotti backs Vinicius to shine for Madrid and Brazil

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has showered praise on his former Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, highlighting his exceptional mentality and consistency on the biggest stages. Emphasising his Brazilian flair, humility and joy, the coach dismissed any concerns over past frustrations, throwing his full support behind the winger ahead of a demanding World Cup campaign.

Spain and Egypt schedule friendly after Finalissima axe

Following the disappointing cancellation of the highly anticipated Finalissima against Argentina due to geopolitical tensions, Spain have rapidly reorganised their March international schedule. La Roja will now face Egypt in a thrilling friendly, stepping in after a previously planned tournament in Qatar was also abandoned, ensuring crucial preparation ahead of the World Cup.

World champion speaks out against Sané taking part in the World Cup

Pierre Littbarski, the 1990 World Cup winner, has spoken out clearly against Leroy Sané being selected for the World Cup.

Hamburger SV v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga

Chukwuemeka receives Austria call-up after snubbing England

Former Chelsea and England youth star Carney Chukwuemeka has officially switched his international allegiance to Austria. Thriving in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund, the 22-year-old earned his first senior call-up from Ralf Rangnick and could play a key role in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. He is now poised to make his senior international debut after being named in the 28-man squad for friendlies against Ghana and South Korea.

Derby County v West Bromwich Albion - Sky Bet Championship

USMNT striker Agyemang in demand as EPL duo eye summer transfer

Crystal Palace have emerged as serious contenders to sign USMNT star Patrick Agyemang as they look to overhaul their attacking options. The Eagles are actively planning for life after Jean-Philippe Mateta, who nearly departed for AC Milan in January and is widely expected to find a new home this summer. Despite the presence of Jorgen Strand Larsen and Eddie Nketiah, Palace view Agyemang as a versatile profile that can bolster their front line.

U.S. Soccer unveils new kits ahead of USMNT's upcoming World Cup

U.S. Soccer has unveiled the federation's new kits that will be worn by the U.S. men's national team at this summer's World Cup. The two kits, nicknamed the "Stars" and "Stripes" kit will be debuted this month in Atlanta for the USMNT's friendlies. Both kits will be worn across all 27 U.S. Soccer National Teams.

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Dowman & Ngumoha are too special for Tuchel to ignore

Thomas Tuchel will name his England squad for the March internationals on Friday, with the Three Lions reconvening for the final time before the end of the 2025-26 club season. This, effectively, will be the last chance for those on the fringes of the squad to impress without immediate fear of losing their World Cup place. But it will also be Tuchel's last opportunity to experiment with systems and players he thinks could help win the trophy.

How many countries have hosted the World Cup?

The 23rd FIFA World Cup is gearing up in the USA, Canada and Mexico, but how many other countries have hosted the famous tournament?

Kylian Mbappe Real Madrid Super Cup 2026

Mbappe caught up in club-versus-country row

Real Madrid face a dilemma over Kylian Mbappe's fitness ahead of their Champions League clash with Manchester City clash as France and Nike demand his presence for international friendlies. The World Cup winner may be called upon by his country despite sitting out matches at club level.

What does the World Cup symbolise?

Everyone wants to win the World Cup, but what does the trophy actually symbolise? GOAL takes a deep dive into the meaning behind the grandest prize in football.

Who is the oldest FIFA World Cup winner?

Discover the legendary names of the oldest players to ever win the World Cup with their country.

Weston McKennie Juventus 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

McKennie opens up on Juve exit saga

Weston McKennie has established himself as one of the most reliable performers for Juventus this season, a far cry from the period when he seemed destined for a permanent exit. The American midfielder has reflected on his resilience and the mental strength required to fight for his place in the Bianconeri starting XI when the club’s hierarchy had other plans.

Zaniolo: "I was immature, but now I feel more like a man. I can’t afford to make any more mistakes."

An interview with the Udinese player who still hopes to play for Italy at the World Cup.

Football and Finance – 2026 World Cup: matches on DAZN in pubs and bars

Who scored the most goals at a World Cup?

Ever wondered who holds the record for most goals scored at a single World Cup, and which teams have been the most prolific in tournament history? GOAL has you covered.

What is the World Cup Golden Boot? Meaning, rules & winners

Everything you need to know about the historic World Cup Golden Boot, including past winners and the rules of the award.

President Trump And First Lady Melania Trump Host Women's History Month Event At The White House

Iran hit back at Donald Trump over World Cup withdrawal row

The Iranian football federation has issued a defiant response to Donald Trump after the United States president suggested their presence at the 2026 World Cup would be "inappropriate" for their own safety. Tensions have reached a breaking point following the commencement of military strikes in the region, leaving Team Melli’s participation in the upcoming tournament on American soil unlikely.

Brazil join forces with Jordan as Nike drop ground-breaking new kit

Brazil have officially unveiled a revolutionary partnership with Jordan Brand, marking the first time the iconic 'Jumpman logo will appear on a national team football kit. The historic threads are set for a high-profile debut at the end of March in a glamour friendly in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup.

U.S. President Trump says Iran should skip World Cup 'for safety'

United States President Donald Trump insisted that the Iranian soccer team are welcome to come to the U.S. for the World Cup this summer, despite the political tensions between the two nations - while warning that traveling to the United States could put their “life and safety” at risk. The U.S. have repeatedly bombed the country in recent weeks, and Iranian officials admitted the team 'cannot' participate in the tournament.

'Didn't think it was reality' - Richards sets sights on impossible

GOAL Exclusive: Chris Richards reflects on the journey he once thought was impossible, the bond inside the USMNT and the life-changing opportunity ahead.

Frequently asked questions

: Arsenal have won the FA Cup 14 times, more than any other club. Their most recent victory came in 2020, but there is a club from Manchester hot on their heels...
: A total of 745 clubs will be participating in the 2024-25 FA Cup, spanning from the Premier League down to Level 9 of the English football league system, with teams from the Level 10 acting as stand-ins in case a team from the aforementioned levels drops out from the competition. The inaugural FA Cup in 1871-82 had just 15 teams participating in it.
: Former Liverpool defender Ian Callaghan, with 88 appearances, is FA Cup's record-appearance maker in history.
: The all-time top scorer in the FA Cup is Ian Rush, with 41 goals in 62 games, primarily scored during his time as a centre forward for Liverpool.
: Paris Hamilton-Downes became the youngest player to ever feature in the FA Cup, debuting at 13 years, 11 months, and one day.for Carshalton Athletic in 2019.
: The FA Cup has featured many football legends, including Steven Gerrard, Ryan Giggs, Thierry Henry, Eric Cantona, and Frank Lampard. Modern-day superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, and Sergio Aguero have also made their mark on the competition.
: Legendary managers such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho, and Pep Guardiola have guided their teams to success in the FA Cup. Notably, Wenger holds the record for most FA Cup victories as a manager, with seven titles to his name.

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