Japan Overview

Former Bafana Bafana captain has issued a timely warning to breakout sensation as South Africa prepares for their monumental 2026 World Cup opener against Mexico. The 20-year-old defender has seen his profile skyrocket following a move to the United States, but the retired centre-back knows all too well how the pressure of the global stage can impact a young career.

Aitana Bonmati has won each of the last three Ballons d'Or Feminin - but the accolade will go to someone else in 2026. Will it be two-time winner and fellow Barcelona star Alexia Putellas who reasserts herself as the best player in the women's game? Or could there be a new name on the honour roll when the Golden Ball is handed out in Paris in October?

The U.S. women's national team won the three-game series against Japan 2-1, with dominant performances from Lindsey Heaps and Claire Hutton, and some less than impressive showings from a surprising few.

The USWNT beat Japan 3-0 on Friday night, fueled by a goal and assist from center back sub Kennedy Wesley and a strike from Rose Lavelle. The result secured a 2-1 edge in the rare three-game series, as manager Emma Hayes’ “game on” message translated into a sharp performance in Commerce City, Colo.