World Cup news

The World Cup is on a knife-edge

This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast series tracking the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we focus on Egypt, travelling across nine decades of footballing triumphs, heartbreaks, miracles, and rebirth; from silent years that tested a nation’s patience, to the unforgettable return in 1990, and the rise of a boy from Nagrig who carried a continent’s dreams on his shoulders: Mohamed Salah.

The Brazilian star clings to his last hope

The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s ambitions extend far beyond simply taking part in the World Cup

A horrific accident at the last minute

Antony's career revival at Real Betis has hit a significant roadblock just as the 2026 World Cup approaches. After a promising start to life in Spain, the Manchester United flop is struggling for consistency and fitness, leaving his chances of a major tournament appearance with Brazil this summer hanging by a thread.

Chelsea captain Reece James is reportedly on track to return from a significant hamstring injury by early May, handing Thomas Tuchel a major boost ahead of England's World Cup campaign. The versatile defender, who has been sidelined since last month, is making rapid progress in his rehabilitation to alleviate fears that he would miss the remainder of the domestic season.

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has joined the long list of sporting icons left in awe of Lionel Messi’s genius on the pitch. The Red Bull driver believes the Argentina and Inter Miami maestro possesses a unique ability to read the game that renders tactical preparation almost useless.

Lothar Matthäus believes that Julian Nagelsmann has definitively closed the door on a return to the German national team for Manuel Neuer.

Hearts sensation Claudio Braga has seen his stock rise meteorically this season, and the 26-year-old striker now finds himself on the verge of a dream Portugal call-up. As Roberto Martinez monitors the forward's progress in Scotland ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a unique conundrum has emerged regarding his goal celebration, which he copied from Cristiano Ronaldo.

Santos head coach Cuca has lifted the lid on a specialized medical roadmap designed to propel Brazil icon Neymar toward the 2026 World Cup in peak physical condition. The 34-year-old superstar used the recent international break to undergo a regenerative knee procedure, as the club looks to fill his tank for a gruelling run of fixtures ahead of the tournament in North America.

The Atlas Lions are gearing up to compete in a tough group

Al-Salibi’s nightmare shocks the Windmills’ star