World Cup news

Mauricio Pochettino has once again indicated that he wants to return to Tottenham as he claimed their recent achievements are "not enough" for a club of that stature. Despite his current commitments with the United States national team, the Argentine said his ultimate ambition is to win the Champions League and Premier League, placing them above achieving World Cup glory in his current role.

Cristiano Ronaldo has been urged to “never stop playing football”, with fellow Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos telling the Portuguese GOAT that he needs to prolong his career for as long as possible - even if he ends up “with one leg or crawling”. CR7 has passed his 41st birthday without giving any thought to retirement and is expected to grace the 2026 World Cup.

The midfielder finds himself in an Amakhosi side that has struggled to supply players to the South Africa national team, while teammates Inacio Miguel and Glody Lilepo have also lost their places in the Angola and DR Congo teams, respectively. However, the 22-year-old has remained in contention at international level under the watch of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

South Africa are already deep into planning for the global football tournament to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, lining up key preparation matches to sharpen themselves into a highly competitive outfit. Their choice of opponents could be something that might spark some fierce debate. They will be playing in this tournament for the first time since 2010 when they participated as hosts.

England are set to take on New Zealand in their first World Cup 2026 warm-up match, it has been confirmed. Thomas Tuchel's side will take on the All Whites in Tampa on June 6 ahead of the tournament, and they will then schedule a friendly fixture four days after.

The former Premier League outfit Fulham and Morocco defender has been giving players chances to prove their worth at the Sea Robbers. However, he has also made some daring calls like letting the South Africa international striker leave in the recent transfer window. The 47-year-old tactician has now justified his decision.

The former Leeds United star has recently emerged as a potential candidate to lead the South African Football Association. The 56-year-old has not formally confirmed any interest in the role. However, he has been vocal about the changes needed in Mzansi football and praised Bafana's current state.

At the 2002 World Cup, Ronaldo arrived looking for redemption. While sporting one of the most unique haircuts in football history, the Brazil striker found exactly what he was searching for. This is ICONS - a GOAL podcast and feature series that revisits the last 10 World Cups from unique perspectives, bringing the spirit of the tournament back to life...

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Argentine National Team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will be based in Kansas City for much of the competition. They will play their first match of the tournament against Algeria on June 16th in the city. Although their other two matches will be in Dallas, the Albiceleste chose Kansas City for its convenient location and climate.

James Rodriguez is reportedly nearing a deal to sign with Minnesota United, which would be a perfect short term agreement for both parties ahead of the World Cup

The Glamour Boys have been doing quite well this season, as players continue proving their doubters wrong. Bafana Bafana are among the teams that will feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Amakhosi players hope to be considered for the global tournament.

With the World Cup just five months away, GOAL takes a look at how El Tri’s squad could shape up next summer.

Pep Guardiola has launched a stinging attack on U.S. president Donald Trump’s administration following the deaths of Renee Good and nurse Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE agents. The Manchester City manager delivered an impassioned defence of human rights during a press conference, breaking his usual silence to condemn "genocide" in Palestine and demand compassion for migrants crossing the English Channel.

ITV plans to take advantage of the BBC's cut-price coverage to win the battle of the broadcasters at this summer's World Cup. While the BBC will not have a studio in North America for the group stage, their rivals have decided to base themselves in the heart of New York from the outset, and they plan to have an all-star cast of pundits to 'blow their competitors out of the water'.

Yazbek tells GOAL why Australia is circling the USMNT clash, how MLS has changed him, and why the World Cup feels within reach.

Lionel Messi has reportedly given the “green light” to a sensational transfer that would include a “no away games” stipulation. The Argentine GOAT has extended his contract at MLS Cup winners Inter Miami through 2028, but wants to ensure that he is ready for World Cup duty in 2026. That could mean returning to Europe on a short-term deal, with Galatasaray ready to throw open their doors.

Could we expect something bold for the Morocco strips from PUMA?