Friendlies news

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has doubled down on his commitment to see Iran compete in the 2026 World Cup, despite the escalating military conflict involving the United States. Speaking during a surprise appearance at a friendly match in Turkey, the governing body's chief dismissed suggestions that the team might be relocated or withdrawn from the tournament.

Get three Scotland vs Ivory Coast predictions from our soccer expert, before Tuesday’s 3:30pm ET International friendly clash (3/31).

Our soccer expert offers his England vs Japan predictions, ahead of Tuesday’s Friendlies clash, at 2:45pm ET (03/31).

England boss Thomas Tuchel stands accused of insulting Harry Maguire with his claim that the Manchester United defender could be fifth-choice centre-half in his 2026 World Cup plans. Maguire has been drafted back into the Three Lions fold for international friendly action, but has been warned that he may struggle to earn another major tournament spot.

The iconic duo of Ronaldo and Rivaldo made a surprise appearance at Brazil’s training base to inspire a squad currently struggling for form. As the Selecao face growing scrutiny following a 2-1 friendly defeat to France, Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has admitted that the weight of the nation's 2002 World Cup success remains a heavy burden for the modern generation.

Germany striker Deniz Undav has hit out at supporters who targeted Leroy Sane with audible boos during the national team's narrow 2-1 friendly victory over Ghana. Despite Sane providing the crucial assist for the winning goal, his introduction in Stuttgart was marred by a hostile reception from the home crowd. The incident has led to a firm demand for unity from the squad as they prepare for the World Cup.

In light of the growing number of Arsenal players pulling out of the upcoming international match, former England international Gabriel Agbonlahor has called for a clear response from Bayern striker Kane.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that Lionel Messi will return to the starting line-up for Tuesday's friendly against Zambia at La Bombonera. The veteran forward’s inclusion comes as the coaching staff looks to finalise their 26-man roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Scaloni eventually left his press conference while holding back tears after addressing an injury blow for one of the nation's rising stars.

The German national team’s two friendly wins were accompanied by plenty of discussion about Julian Nagelsmann’s decisions, actions and comments. In the end, the national coach was largely proven right!

England's World Cup group stage opponents Ghana have taken the ruthless decision to sack head coach Otto Addo just 10 weeks before the tournament begins. The Black Stars announced the departure of the former Borussia Dortmund assistant following a narrow 2-1 friendly defeat to Germany in Stuttgart.

First on the bench, then the match-winner, and finally an emotional leader too: Deniz Undav has made the most of his role as a substitute. Still, he shouldn’t get his hopes up too much.

How to watch the Friendlies match between England and Japan, as well as kick-off time and team news

National coach Julian Nagelsmann has warned the DFB squad to adapt their style of play ahead of the World Cup, following their 2-1 victory in a friendly against Ghana.

Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has launched a blistering attack on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their controversial decision to strip the Lions of Teranga of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco. The veteran shot-stopper believes administrative failures are actively undermining the immense progress made by the continent's elite players.

Thomas Tuchel has plotted a diplomatic course through the storm that has followed the withdrawals of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka from the England squad, saying the optics may look bad but he has “100% trust” in their integrity. The Arsenal duo will be unavailable for the clash against Japan at Wembley after reporting discomfort following their recent club commitments.

ATLANTA -- Mauricio Pochettino insisted his full focus is on the World Cup with the USMNT but did not rule out a future return to Tottenham after being asked about the club’s managerial vacancy following manager Igor Tudor’s dismissal, adding that “never say never” in football. Pochettino last coached Spurs from 2014-19.

Despite being a regular starter for VfB Stuttgart, Deniz Undav is nothing more than a permanent substitute when wearing the DFB jersey. Julian Nagelsmann explains his decisions, whilst Undav provides the perfect response.