World Cup news

Gianluigi Buffon has officially stepped down from his position as the delegation chief of the Italy national team following the Azzurri’s devastating failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The legendary former goalkeeper confirmed his departure shortly after FIGC President Gabriele Gravina also resigned from his post.

The final international break of the 2025/26 season saw entertaining matches. The betting markets haven’t adjusted to the surprise results yet.

The legendary goalkeeper announces his retirement after failing to qualify for the World Cup: I feel pain in my heart

Gianluigi Donnarumma is visibly emotional following Italy’s latest World Cup exit and has spoken out publicly for the first time.

The French coach has found supporters amidst fierce criticism

There is controversy surrounding the French coach’s future with the Saudi national team

Christian Pulisic hasn't scored for the USMNT since 2024, but, ultimately, it's his World Cup form that really counts.

Portuguese coach comments on reports of taking charge of the 'Green' team

A unique quality possessed by Max Dowman has been used as a reason why the 16-year-old Arsenal wonderkid should be included in England’s 2026 World Cup squad. The talented teenager is yet to start a Premier League fixture, but has become that division’s youngest goal-scorer during one of three outings off the bench. Bryan Robson is among those that believe Dowman could be a useful wildcard for England this summer.

German coach tipped to succeed Renard as manager of the Saudi national team

The former Mamelodi Sundowns star has issued a stark warning to the Buccaneers midfielder, saying the playmaker risks becoming a permanent 'what if' in South African football. Despite his natural talent, Mbule has struggled for consistency and has recently been left out of Hugo Broos’ national team plans.

A promotional advert featuring four stars in a rare scene

Following the disgraceful incidents during the Spain v Egypt match

The road to the 2026 World Cup has officially taken a brick-built turn as football’s biggest icons have been transformed into LEGO form. Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo lead an all-star cast that includes Real Madrid duo Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr in a new advert that is certain to break the internet.

Brad Friedel has explained to GOAL why Mauricio Pochettino will never have been open to the idea of a “dual job” that saw him coach both Tottenham and the USMNT. Spurs recently found themselves back in the market for a new manager after bringing Igor Tudor’s ill-fated 44-day tenure to a close. Former fan favourite Pochettino saw a return to north London speculated on, but he has World Cup plans to focus on this summer.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was one of just a number of Italy players reduced to tears by Tuesday's World Cup play-off loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina - but the penalty shootout defeat in Zenica hit the goalkeeper harder than most. This wasn't the first time he'd been involved in a failed attempt to qualify - it was the third. Despite his devastation, though, Donnarumma remained defiant.