World Cup

World Cup news

Ajax Training Session and Press Conference

Ex-Netherlands star apologises for Japan remark

Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has issued a formal apology following a wave of backlash over offensive comments made during the 2026 World Cup. The ex-Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder was working as a pundit for a Dutch broadcaster when he made a controversial remark regarding the appearance of Japan’s players after their 2-2 draw with the Oranje.

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Memo Ochoa reportedly eyes retirement after 2026 World Cup

Mexico legend Guillermo "Memo" Ochoa is reportedly set to retire after the 2026 World Cup, ending a career that spanned multiple tournaments, memorable performances and club stops across Mexico and Europe. As El Tri prepare for life after Ochoa, attention is already turning toward the next generation of goalkeepers, led by Raúl "Tala" Rangel.

FBL-WC-2026-MATCH01-MEX-RSA

South Africa star slapped with three-game ban

South Africa attacking midfielder Themba Zwane has been slapped with a three-match suspension by FIFA following his controversial red card during Bafana Bafana's opening 2026 World Cup defeat to Mexico. The severe punishment means the 36-year-old veteran will miss the remainder of the group stage, dealing a massive blow to Hugo Broos and his squad as they desperately seek progression.

Portugal GFX

Gianni shouldn't have bothered! CR7 falls flat for Portugal

Portugal were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by minnows DR Congo in their first World Cup group game, with a Yoane Wissa effort cancelling out Joao Neves' opener. Cristiano Ronaldo cut a frustrated figure up front, while Bernardo Silva also had an afternoon to forget as Roberto Martinez's side failed to live up to their billing as one of the pre-tournament favourites.

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Cote D'Ivoire v Ecuador: Group E - FIFA World Cup 2026

Wahi arrested over alleged spot-fixing

Investigative authorities in France have reportedly questioned Ivory Coast international Elye Wahi in relation to serious spot-fixing allegations. The shocking claims involve an intentional yellow card received during a domestic match just weeks before the forward took to the field at the World Cup.

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Vozinha mother granted U.S. visa for World Cup

The 2026 World Cup has produced its fair share of emotional storylines, but few resonate as strongly as the journey of Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. After a heroic performance against Spain in a match that ended 0-0 and left him in tears over his family's absence, the 40-year-old veteran has received the news he was dreaming of.

England Training And Press Conference - FIFA World Cup 2026

England warned they can't win the World Cup

Former Sweden international Tomas Brolin has brutally dismissed England's hopes of winning the World Cup this summer. The football legend insists Thomas Tuchel's men, who are chasing their first title since 1966, are severely overrated. Brolin also shared his thoughts on Cristiano Ronaldo's future and backed Michael Olise to shine on the biggest stage.

Argentina v Algeria: Group J - FIFA World Cup 2026

Rodrigo De Paul hails selfless Lionel Messi after World Cup hat-trick

Rodrigo De Paul has praised the incredible team mentality of Argentina captain Lionel Messi after his record-equalling hat-trick at the World Cup. Despite tying Miroslav Klose’s all-time tournament goalscoring record, the veteran forward remains entirely focused on collective success rather than individual glory, proving his irreplaceable value to the South American champions.

Pisa SC v AC Milan - Serie A

Modric will 'definitely' return to Madrid, claims Croatia icon

Croatia legend Davor Suker claims that AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric is destined to return to Real Madrid after he leaves the Italian side. The former striker insists that the iconic playmaker will definitely reunite with the Spanish giants after the World Cup, adding another chapter to his legendary 597-game legacy in the capital.

France v Senegal: Group I - FIFA World Cup 2026

Henry snubs Mbappe for 'most important' star

Thierry Henry has claimed that Michael Olise has overtaken Kylian Mbappe as France's "most important player" following their impressive World Cup victory over Senegal. While Mbappe made history by becoming the nation's all-time leading goalscorer during the 3-1 win, it was the Bayern Munich star who caught the eye of the legendary striker.

Christian Pulisic USMNT 2026 World Cup Paraguay

Pulisic receives World Cup ‘shop window’ transfer advice

Christian Pulisic has been given “shop window” transfer advice, with ex-USMNT star Kasey Keller reacting to the talented forward’s ongoing contract saga at AC Milan during an interview with GOAL. For now, a man that has often taken on the ‘Captain America’ moniker at international level is enjoying the “relief factor” of representing his country at a home World Cup - with a dream start being made to that tournament.

France v Senegal: Group I - FIFA World Cup 2026

'Felt artificial' - Rabiot slams 'hard & rigid' pitch after France win

France may have secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Senegal to kickstart their World Cup campaign, but Adrien Rabiot was left far from impressed with the playing conditions in North America. The experienced midfielder has hit out at the state of the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium, claiming the surface made for a difficult and laboured opening fixture.

Portugal v Nigeria - International Friendly

Ronaldo tipped to play into his FIFTIES by ex-Man Utd star

Cristiano Ronaldo has long defied the traditional aging process of elite athletes, and fellow former Manchester United forward Teddy Sheringham believes the Portuguese icon is nowhere near finished. Despite currently competing in Saudi Arabia and preparing for another major international tournament, the 41-year-old is being tipped to extend his professional career for another decade.

Harry Kane England Tottenham 2013

Revealed: When Kane was told he’ll ‘never be good enough’

Harry Redknapp has revealed to GOAL when a “never be good enough” assessment of Harry Kane was delivered, with the record-breaking England captain going on to make a mockery of that verdict. During his early years at Tottenham, doubts were raised as to whether the ambitious striker would ever make the grade. He is now the all-time leading scorer for Spurs and the Three Lions, while also becoming a Ballon d’Or contender.

Jude Bellingham England 2026 unhappy

Why Bellingham ending arm-waving would be ‘more of a problem’

Outbursts of emotion from Jude Bellingham are no bad thing, ex-England star David James has told GOAL, with it considered to be “more of a problem” if the Real Madrid midfielder reined in his on-field behaviour. Team-mates, with club and country, are considered to have accepted that the passionate 22-year-old will always be a fiery character.

Thomas Tuchel England 2026 World Cup

Tuchel given ‘disastrous’ WC warning after ‘strange decision’

Thomas Tuchel has taken on one of the most arduous tasks in world football - the England manager’s job - and Harry Redknapp has told GOAL that a “disastrous” World Cup could lead to the German tactician quitting despite a “strange” contract extension being signed. Everybody connected with the Three Lions is hoping that scenario can be avoided as another quest for elusive major honours is opened.

Gio Reyna USMNT World Cup 2026 Paraguay

‘Sky’s the limit’ for Reyna as USMNT star gets familiar advice

Gio Reyna has been told that the “sky’s the limit” when it comes to his potential, but the USMNT star faces familiar words of advice while trying to fully unlock that ability. Ex-United States international Kasey Keller - who is a close friend of the Reyna family - has told GOAL of the need to find greater consistency after netting a wondergoal against Paraguay at the 2026 World Cup.