Tag · 108 articles
The expanded 48-team World Cup brought new stories like Cape Verde's historic qualification, but major nations faced little jeopardy. With more goals and surprises, the format's success is debated.
Giovani Lo Celso was officially awarded the FIFA Man of the Match for the Argentina vs Jordan match.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino took 27 flights on a private jet to attend 24 matches across North America during the 2026 World Cup group stage, producing an estimated 516 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The jet traveled over 31,000 miles, with the climate impact comparable to 78 people's annual emissions.
Second-half goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane gave England a 2-0 win over Panama, securing first place in Group L. Bellingham volleyed in from a corner before setting up Kane's record-breaking 11th World Cup goal. England advance to the Round of 32.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei says his team was treated 'unfairly' by the United States during the World Cup, citing visa restrictions and a last-minute training base change. He urged FIFA to prevent similar treatment in future tournaments.
Australia drew 0-0 with Paraguay in their final Group D match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing second place and a spot in the Round of 32. Paraguay must wait to see if they advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
The Women's World Cup has seen a series of contentious VAR decisions, leaving fans and players confused. From Ghana's denied penalty against England to Brazil's disallowed goal and Germany's allowed goal despite a high boot, the application of VAR appears inconsistent. Statistics show similar intervention rates to the Premier League, but subjective calls vary.
A World Cup group stage match between Egypt and Iran, designated a Pride Match by Seattle organizers, will feature rainbow flags and drag performances despite objections from both teams, where homosexuality is illegal. Coaches insist they focus only on football, while organizers say the event celebrates Seattle's identity.
Aiden O'Neill received the FIFA Man of the Match award for his performance representing Australia.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House's World Cup task force, said the US may bid for the 2038 men's World Cup. He cited the country's infrastructure and potential expansion to 64 teams as reasons, while acknowledging current challenges including visa issues and travel costs during the 2026 tournament.
An investigation by Deutschlandfunk reveals that several national football federations are reselling World Cup tickets on FIFA's official platform at significantly higher prices, exploiting privileged access to cheap tickets. The profits flow to insiders whose votes sustain the system.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani says the World Cup generates 'more than enough' income and fans should not face high prices. He criticizes FIFA for not making the tournament more affordable despite earning nearly $9bn.
The expanded 48-team World Cup has reduced group stage jeopardy, as eight third-placed teams advance. Matches like Australia vs Paraguay and Austria vs Algeria could see teams play for draws, raising concerns about competitive integrity.
FIFA's efforts to suppress non-sponsor brands at the World Cup have backfired, generating more attention for brands like Levi's, Heinz, and Beats. The phenomenon, known as the Streisand Effect, has turned these brands into unexpected winners, sparking viral moments and product launches.
Achraf Hakimi has been officially awarded the FIFA Man of the Match for Morocco. The recognition highlights his performance in the match.
Mateo Chavez was awarded FIFA Man of the Match for his performance in Mexico's match against the Czech Republic.
FIFA's decision to prioritize head-to-head over goal difference in group stage tie-breakers may reduce the drama of final-round matches, turning potential thrillers into dead rubbers. The rule change has drawn criticism for needlessly killing the excitement of the World Cup's group stage.
Brazil had a goal ruled out against Scotland after VAR sent the referee to the monitor to review a foul by Vinicius Junior in the build-up.
Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino will jointly present the World Cup trophy to the winners at the final in New York, Infantino announced.
Croatia defeated Panama 1-0 in a hard-fought World Cup match, eliminating Panama from the tournament. Ante Budimir scored the only goal in the 54th minute, while Luka Modric celebrated his 200th international cap.
