FIFA has announced a significant protocol modification that will see every squad member take part in the pre-match national anthems at the upcoming World Cup. Moving away from traditional sporting custom, football's global governing body has mandated that both starting line-ups and substitutes congregate together on the pitch ahead of kick-off.
Luka Modric could be considered unique, given all that he has achieved, but Ivan Perisic has told GOAL that Croatia are capable of producing another Ballon d’Or winner in the future. The most decorated performer to emerge from that part of the world collected a prestigious Golden Ball in 2018. More “great talent” continues to drop off the production line, leaving hopes high when it comes to creating another member of the global elite.
There's just one week to go until the biggest show on earth gets underway, with the 2026 World Cup kicking off on June 11. If you haven't already caught a serious case of World Cup fever, what better way to get in the mood than by checking out the very best kits that will be on show in North America this summer.
Former England striker Alan Shearer has urged manager Thomas Tuchel to make a bold decision by starting Morgan Rogers over Jude Bellingham in the coveted number 10 role. Backed by stunning club statistics and a European trophy, the Aston Villa star's exceptional form and superior match fitness could give him the definitive edge heading into the World Cup.
Romelu Lukaku reached yet another historic milestone as Belgium secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Croatia in their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The Napoli striker came off the bench to silence any doubts over his match fitness, netting a landmark 90th goal for his country to seal the result in Rijeka.
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias is not convinced the 2026 World Cup will mark the end for veterans like 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, defending champion Lionel Messi, 38, and Luka Modric, 40. The Portuguese centre-back discussed the immense motivation his squad feels to capture the only major trophy their iconic captain has failed to win.
The World Cup has had no shortage of iconic moments across nearly 100 years of history. Every four years, billions of fans congregate to watch a tournament that has provided more drama, heartbreak and joy than any other event in sporting history. Football's grandest stage, the World Cup has always offered a platform for legends to be born, but it has also seen reputations destroyed and the downfall of so many famous faces.
FIFA has confirmed the key dates and squad regulations for the 2026 World Cup. Nations must submit their final player lists by June 1, with strict rules in place regarding injuries, replacements and goalkeeper selections.
Ivan Perisic has told GOAL how the Croatia squad is able to ignore any club rivalries and build a “big family” at international tournaments. Another “very special” opportunity is about to present itself in 2026, as the World Cup takes centre stage, with one group of vastly experienced performers preparing to catch the eye again on and off the field.
AC Milan and Croatia talisman Luka Modric has undergone successful surgery after suffering a fractured cheekbone just weeks before the World Cup. The legendary midfielder sustained the injury during a bruising Serie A encounter with Juventus, leaving his participation in the summer showpiece under the microscope.
Gabriel Martinelli scored a lovely goal after being teed up by Endrick to complete Brazil's 3-1 victory over Croatia in a confidence-boosting World Cup warm-up clash. The Arsenal man's arrowed finish rounded off the scoring in stoppage time as the Selecao bounced back from last week's friendly defeat to France.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a significant fitness boost to the Selecao and Real Madrid fans alike by confirming that Vinicius Junior is available for Tuesday's friendly against Croatia. The Italian tactician dismissed fears regarding the winger's physical condition following a period of specialised recovery work.
Brazil have been hit by a significant injury scare as star forward Vinicius Jr was forced to sit out training ahead of Tuesday’s international friendly against Croatia. The Real Madrid superstar is struggling with a physical issue following the intensive clash against France earlier this week, which saw Brazil suffer a 2-1 defeat.
Neymar found himself back in headlines across Europe last week after he was brought up as a topic of debate on The Overlap. Gary Neville introduced a new 'Unpopular Opinions' segment, and kicked it off with the following statement: "No Premier League player in history is better than a prime Neymar."
Liverpool will be without the services of Alisson Becker for Saturday’s early kick off against Brighton. The 33-year-old shot stopper did not travel with the rest of the Reds squad to the South Coast, dealing a significant blow to Arne Slot’s plans as they look to keep up their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
England have been handed a brutal draw on their return to the top table of Nations League football. The Three Lions will take on Spain, Croatia, and Czechia in what could be seen as a Group of Death for Thomas Tuchel's men, who will first attempt to win the World Cup this summer.
Luka Modric has named Jose Mourinho as the toughest manager of his illustrious career, claiming the legendary boss is so intense that he once made Cristiano Ronaldo cry in the Real Madrid dressing room. The Croatia and AC Milan midfielder has worked under several world-class coaches during his sparkling spell in football, but he has labelled the Portuguese as the strictest of them all.
Croatia
