World Cup news

The Bafana centre-forward was one of the players who were highly criticised on online platforms after the Panama game. Some feel that he cannot be a reliable striker, and the coach must find a better alternative before the World Cup finals. If the Belgian is not satisfied with the star's performance, then he will have to look for more viable solutions.

While the current focus is on the next friendly against Panama, Bafana's eyes are fixed on the upcoming big assignment. The players will not only be representing the country but will also be carrying the continental aspirations, as they are among the African countries set to play in the global bonanza. That means the 1996 AFCON champions must make their supporters proud by staging an impressive campaign.

The veteran midfielder made his long-awaited return to the national team, featuring for the first time since October 2024. A series of injuries had kept him out of the national side for an extended period, forcing him to miss several international assignments. Now back in the fold, he is expected to play a key role as the team builds towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

One of Nagelsmann's tactical moves pays off straight away. Karl makes a successful debut, whilst the defence is having an off day.

Results and key players from tonight’s international football fixtures.

Harry Maguire has opened up on his emotional return to the England setup, admitting that Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick played a pivotal role in reviving his international career. After 18 months in the wilderness, the veteran defender is back in the fold and started the Three Lions' World Cup warm-up clash against Uruguay.

Julian Nagelsmann has warned Jamal Musiala that time is fast running out for him to prove his fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The Bayern Munich sensation has been forced to sit out Germany’s latest round of international friendlies as he continues to struggle with a persistent ankle problem.

The friendly games are part of South Africa's preparations for the upcoming World Cup finals. After a disappointing outing in the Africa Cup of Nations finals, Hugo Broos' men hope to have a far better campaign in the global showpiece to make the nation proud. Although some felt that their Friday opponent are a low-profile opponent for the National Team, the Central Americans claimed a draw in the first encounter.

Reports have surfaced regarding the relationship between Thomas Tuchel and Trent Alexander-Arnold following a cryptic social media post by the Real Madrid defender. This latest snub for the friendlies against Uruguay and Japan means the former Liverpool man has only played one game for his country since Tuchel took charge in March 2025.

The Buccaneer was part of the squad that represented the country in the Africa Cup of Nations, although he did not play. He was also included in the preliminary team that was named before Hugo Broos trimmed it to 23 players ahead of the Panama friendlies. His omission has raised questions on whether the coach has lost trust in him and if he will be considered for a place in the World Cup line-up.

With months to go before the opening match, there still appears to be a question mark over Lionel Messi’s participation in the World Cup.

Freddy Adu has told GOAL why Gio Reyna’s unique skillset could be crucial to the USMNT cause at a home World Cup. The United States is, alongside Mexico and Canada, preparing to play host to FIFA’s flagship event in 2026. Reyna is hoping to play a prominent role at that event but, having endured form and fitness issues at club level, has been informed of what he needs to bring to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad in order to make the cut.

South Africa are aiming to atone for their disappointing outing in Morocco by delivering a stronger performance on the global stage. They now have an opportunity to redeem themselves if they can reach the knockout stages of the global football competition in North America. Progressing beyond the group phase would help restore pride and show the team’s growth since the AFCON setback.

GOAL sat down with the American star to discuss career-defining moments, how he's grown as a person, and why his USMNT teammates matter so much to him

The Masandawana star has been an undisputed number one choice under Hugo Broos. After a generally underwhelming campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco, eyes will be keen to see whether the Belgian will go for another goalkeeper. Apart from Williams, other custodians have had an impressive run in the season so far, expecting to attract the Belgians' attention.

Luka Vuskovic has now captivated his home country of Croatia too. The local press is full of praise for the Bundesliga rising star.

The World Cup play-off rules regarding extra time and penalties: what would happen if Bosnia v Italy ended in a draw after 90 minutes.