+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles

Friendlies

Friendlies news

Advertisement
England v Japan - International Friendly

Guehi makes worrying admission after England's loss to Japan

England concluded their March international break on a disappointing note as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Japan at Wembley, with Marc Guehi making a worrying admission about the pressure of playing for the Three Lions after the final whistle. Despite dominating possession, the hosts were undone by a first-half strike from Kaoru Mitoma.

FBL-AFR-2025-MATCH 15-EGY-RSA

Broos wants Euro or Asian test for Bafana

South Africa's head coach has hinted to SAFA that the team should secure high-profile friendly matches against European or Asian opposition during the next international break. The Belgian tactician is eager to refine his squad’s preparations following a challenging double-header against Panama.

Lionel Messi Lionel Scaloni Argentina

Scaloni backs Messi for 1,000 career goals and World Cup last dance

Lionel Scaloni has thrown his support behind Lionel Messi to potentially reach the historic 1,000 career goals milestone, while insisting the Argentina captain does have the "desire" to play at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking after a dominant friendly victory against Zambia, the Albiceleste boss emphasized that the Inter Miami star still possesses the hunger to compete at the very highest level despite already achieving his ultimate dream in Qatar.

Goretzka, Stiller

Stiller is no match for Goretzka and his special status

The German national team’s attack shines even without (and with) Deniz Undav; Lennart Karl is proving himself worthy of more than just a trial run; the defence is holding its own despite the odd wobble; and Julian Nagelsmann’s measures are paying off. The winners and losers at the DFB following the March training camp.

Italy v Northern Ireland  -  FIFA World Cup 2026 European Qualifiers KO play-offs

O’Neill sparks outrage with NI selection

Northern Ireland and Blackburn Rovers manager Michael O'Neill has provoked a fierce backlash from Championship relegation rivals. Balancing his dual roles, the 56-year-old is accused of a major conflict of interest after heavily utilising key players from clubs battling Blackburn for survival in a 1-1 friendly draw, while resting his own prospect until the 80th minute.

Netherlands v Norway - International Friendly

'Completely lost their minds' - Dutch support for Van Dijk

Dutch pundit Hans Kraay Jr has launched a scathing attack on the English media, claiming analysts and "self-proclaimed know-it-alls" have lost their minds regarding Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool captain has faced intense scrutiny this season as the Reds have struggled to maintain their usual high standards at the back.

Gianni Infantino

Infantino insists Iran WILL play at the 2026 World Cup

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.