World Cup - News - SPORT.TV

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi is recovering from leg muscle fatigue and has resumed partial training, raising the possibility of featuring in upcoming World Cup warm-up matches. Several other injured squad members remain in individual rehabilitation and are expected to miss friendlies, while final World Cup squad selections will depend on late fitness assessments.

With the 2026 World Cup just days away, 18-year-old Bayern Munich prodigy Lennart Carl has been forced to withdraw after suffering a thigh muscle fiber tear in training, ending his first World Cup journey prematurely. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann quickly activated a contingency plan, calling up RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouedraogo as his replacement. Ouedraogo will urgently fly to the US to join the national team, taking over the No. 25 jersey and injecting new energy into Germany's attack.

Iran international Ezatolahi admits the team is under immense psychological pressure during preparation in Turkey due to tensions between his country and the World Cup host nation. The squad has obtained Mexican visas and will move to Tijuana for training. Players say they will fight for their suffering compatriots, aiming for good results and showcasing the resilience and unity of Iranians to the world.

This article provides a comprehensive list of active Major League Soccer (MLS) players called up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While the proportion of MLS players in the U.S. squad has decreased compared to historical levels, the tournament still features numerous internationals from clubs like Atlanta United, Los Angeles FC, and Inter Miami CF, including stars such as Lionel Messi and Son Heung-min, as well as MLS players who helped Haiti return to the World Cup after 52 years.

While preparing for the World Cup in Monterrey, Mexico, the Japanese national team urgently relocated to the El Barrial base due to uneven and bare turf at the original training venue, sparking social media discussions and criticism of the club. The team's schedule includes matches against the Netherlands on June 14, Tunisia on June 20, and Sweden on June 25. The training camp is set in Nashville, and the team will arrive on June 8.

2026 World Cup tickets have surged dramatically, with group stage prices tripling or quadrupling and final tickets rising over eightfold. Resale market prices have hit $2 million for some individual tickets. Average cheapest tickets in cities like Los Angeles and Dallas exceed $1,000, surpassing costs for the Champions League final and F1. FIFA's 15% service fee and dynamic pricing raise concerns about empty seats, while parking and transit fees add to the financial burden, pricing out ordinary fans.

Spain, boasting a 28-match unbeaten run, faces Iraq in a friendly. While missing several key players, Spain's depth and form are expected to lead to a comfortable home victory, potentially extending their clean sheet record.

France will face Ivory Coast in a World Cup warm-up match on June 4 at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes. The world No. 1 Gallic Roosters have won eight of their last nine games, with Mbappe needing just one goal to become the all-time top scorer. Ivory Coast has a solid defense but faces injury issues, while France's defense is also depleted. With a strong home record, France aims to use a victory to test their squad.

Tony Popovic reflects on the formative influences behind his coaching philosophy, highlighting Guus Hiddink’s composure during high-pressure moments, Carlo Ancelotti’s authoritative yet calm leadership style, and the enduring values instilled by his parents. These experiences shaped his approach as a coach, guiding Australia to direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup and defining his identity as a former player turned national team manager.

Cristiano Ronaldo is the first player to score in five World Cups, participating in six tournaments from 2006 to 2026, with 22 appearances, 8 goals, and 2 assists. This article provides a detailed breakdown of his stats per tournament, including matches played, goals scored, and team results, showcasing the illustrious World Cup journey of this legendary forward.

Japan's long-term goal is to win the World Cup by 2050, and they are preparing for their eighth World Cup journey in 2026. The squad, built around European-based players, is strong, but they have never advanced beyond the round of 16. The key to a breakthrough lies in whether head coach Hajime Moriyasu can adjust tactics in crucial matches, showing greater ambition and control to take a historic step forward.

Chelsea's Cole Palmer, omitted from England's World Cup squad, is taking a relaxing holiday in Ibiza with Wayne Lineker to recharge after a season marred by inconsistency and injuries. The break offers a respite from his demanding schedule, while the England team has begun preparations in Florida.

Netherlands host Algeria on June 3 aiming to extend their unbeaten streak. Both teams face key absences, but the Dutch hold a clear edge and are expected to edge a narrow win; Algeria's lively frontline could make for a tense finish.

The 2026 World Cup player market value rankings are out, with Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappe tied at €200 million for first place. Among the 22 players valued at over €100 million, 18 are participating in the tournament. Spanish, French, and English players dominate the list, while Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are the major clubs in terms of value, with the full ranking showcasing the distribution of top football talent.

According to sources, Real Madrid have basically reached an agreement with French defender Ibrahima Konate, who will join on a free transfer from Liverpool. The two sides have settled on a four-year contract, and Konate is expected to complete the move before the World Cup, joining his French teammates at Real Madrid.

Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies has rejoined the Canadian national team for World Cup preparations but remains without a clear return date following a hamstring injury. The captain, who last played for Canada after an ACL tear in March 2025, emphasized a cautious, day-by-day recovery approach, with the coach ruling out any rush to bring him back. Canada's World Cup opener is against Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 12.

24-year-old Summerville has been unexpectedly selected for the Netherlands' World Cup squad. Despite missing the March international break due to injury, he earned the trust of head coach Koeman after contributing 5 goals and 5 assists for West Ham last season. He expressed surprise and stated he is ready to start if called upon. The Netherlands will begin their campaign against Japan on June 14, followed by matches against Sweden and Tunisia.

Croatia coach Dalic changes to a 3-4-2-1 formation in a friendly against Belgium as a tactical rehearsal for their World Cup opener against England. Gvardiol and Kovacic return from injury, while Belgium arrives unbeaten but with Lukaku's fitness uncertain. Both teams treat this as serious preparation, with a low-scoring draw predicted.

Croatia have unveiled their 26-man World Cup squad led by veteran Luka Modric. The roster features key players across all lines, including Livakovic, Gvardiol, and Kovacic, while Perisic and Kramaric headline the attack as Croatia aim for another strong World Cup campaign.

France center-back William Saliba could miss the World Cup due to a back injury and is scheduled for an MRI scan on Monday to confirm the extent of the issue. This season, he has played 50 games for Arsenal, playing a key role in their Premier League title win and run to the Champions League final. Deschamps has announced his 26-man squad, but the defense faces the challenge of a potential core absence.