World Cup news

FIFA have been forced into an embarrassed climbdown over World Cup ticket prices, introducing a new tier of cheaper tickets at £45 ($60) for supporters following widespread outrage and significant pressure from fan groups and national football associations. The initial pricing structure, which included the cheapest final tickets at over £3,000, was described as "laughable" and a "monumental betrayal" for fans.

FIFA has introduced a $60 “Supporter Entry Tier” for every match at the 2026 World Cup, distributing tickets through national federations to loyal fans. The move follows widespread criticism of high prices, dynamic pricing plans, and refund policies tied to team elimination.

England are being advised to drop Jude Bellingham from their starting XI at the 2026 World Cup, with the Real Madrid superstar being informed that Aston Villa playmaker Morgan Rogers currently has “more of an influence” on games. Thomas Tuchel has warned all of those at his disposal that no places in his plans for a shot at global glory next summer are guaranteed.

Despite all that's happened in American soccer in the 23 years since an unforgettable 2002 World Cup, it's still worth wondering: 'What if they called that damn handball?' There was no VAR in the summer back then, no pathway for the referees to change course. Torsten Frings' hand struck the ball - imagine what could have happened if it was acknowledged on the day, and not just 23 years later?

Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes is all set for talks with Scotland boss Steve Clarke over switching allegiance from England ahead of World Cup 2026. Barnes, who was born in Burnley, has Scottish connections from his mother's side and is thus eligible to represent their national team. The 28-year-old has featured only once for England back in 2020 against Wales.

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Erling Haaland has been put in an exclusive club, with the Manchester City striker considered to be one of few players that are capable of chasing down Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when it comes to goal output. Messi and Ronaldo, who continue to dominate GOAT debates, are considered to have "changed the game" and put down serious markers for the next generation.

Carlo Ancelotti could remain in charge of Brazil long after the 2026 World Cup in North America, with the Confederacao Brasileira de Desportos (CBF) now locked in advanced talks over a contract extension. The Italian has impressed since becoming the Selecao’s first foreign head coach, and officials are keen to secure continuity as Brazil target global glory.

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Landon Donovan took issue with Australia manager Tony Popovic’s reaction to the 2026 World Cup draw, calling the confidence he projected “unusual.” The USMNT legend said Popovic’s response suggested Australia view Group D as winnable, with the Americans joined by Paraguay and a UEFA playoff winner. Donovan added that Popovic’s comments made him wish he could return to face the Socceroos.

FIFA said Friday that it received five million ticket requests in the first 24 hours of the third phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup, underscoring what the governing body described as “extraordinary” global demand despite mounting backlash from supporter groups over ticket prices.

The FA are reportedly set to raise formal concerns with FIFA after England supporters reacted with fury to “outrageous” World Cup ticket prices, with the cheapest seats for the final costing over £3,000 and a full run following the Three Lions exceeding £5,000. Fan groups have already condemned the pricing as a betrayal, leaving the FA under pressure to challenge football’s global governing body.

Brazil are short in key areas, while Belgium's golden generation has been and gone - but they're not the only ones who might struggle

GOAL's Front Three have created the ultimate 26-man World Cup squad, based on teams that have qualified for the 2026 edition in North America. The options for each position are literally endless, with so many world-class superstars vying for a spot. Find out who makes the cut, and who gets left at home, by watching the video above! ⬆️

Karim Benzema has reignited one of the most compelling storylines of his extraordinary career by revealing he remains fully open to representing France at the 2026 World Cup, despite a turbulent international history that has long suggested his time with Les Bleus is over. Didier Deschamps' men will be looking to regain the global crown in North America spearheaded by the likes of Kylian Mbappe, and Benzema is willing to lend a helping hand to the cause.