FIFA has announced a significant protocol modification that will see every squad member take part in the pre-match national anthems at the upcoming World Cup. Moving away from traditional sporting custom, football's global governing body has mandated that both starting line-ups and substitutes congregate together on the pitch ahead of kick-off.
The World Cup has had no shortage of iconic moments across nearly 100 years of history. Every four years, billions of fans congregate to watch a tournament that has provided more drama, heartbreak and joy than any other event in sporting history. Football's grandest stage, the World Cup has always offered a platform for legends to be born, but it has also seen reputations destroyed and the downfall of so many famous faces.
FIFA has confirmed the key dates and squad regulations for the 2026 World Cup. Nations must submit their final player lists by June 1, with strict rules in place regarding injuries, replacements and goalkeeper selections.
Brian Gutierrez’s growing role, Raul Rangel’s No. 1 case, and Edson Alvarez’s fitness are among the key storylines as Mexico face Ghana in Puebla on Friday. GOAL looks at five keys to watch in El Tri’s first pre-World Cup friendly.
The Ghana Football Association has officially appointed Carlos Queiroz as the new head coach of the Black Stars to lead their 2026 World Cup campaign. The former Manchester United assistant manager replaces Otto Addo just 58 days before the tournament begins, bringing a wealth of elite international experience to the West African giants.
The Ghanaian Football Association has announced that Berekum Chelsea player Dominic Frimpong passed away during an armed attack on the club’s team bus. The vehicle in question was targeted by a group of “masked men wielding guns and assault rifles”. The robbery led to a tragic loss of life, with authorities in Ghana vowing to address safety concerns.
Tottenham Hotspur’s survival hopes have been dealt a massive blow following reports that Mohammed Kudus has suffered a significant setback in his recovery from injury. The Ghana international now faces the prospect of missing the remainder of the Premier League season and potentially this summer’s World Cup.
Former Germany head coach Joachim Low has broken his silence regarding reports that he is set to manage Ghana at the 2026 World Cup. The 66-year-old has been out of the dugout since leaving the DFB in 2021 and is currently being linked with a sensational return to the international stage.
Löw has been out of a coaching job for five years. Now, of all times, he is set to return to the touchline for the World Cup. But it is unlikely that this will actually happen.
Florian Wirtz is finally finding his rhythm at Liverpool after an initial period of adjustment following his high-profile move from the Bundesliga. The Germany international’s father, Hans, has revealed the physical sacrifices his son has made to conquer the unique demands of English football.