Predictions
Shearer's World Cup Group Stage Picks
Alan Shearer selects his standout players and moments from the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage.
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Predictions
France the team to beat? Chris Sutton predicts World Cup last-32
BBC Sport's Chris Sutton and AI predict the World Cup last-32 ties, with France emerging as favorites. Users outperform both in predictions so far. Key matches include England vs DR Congo and Argentina vs Cape Verde.
News
World Cup 2026: Knockout Stage Begins After Entertaining Group Phase
The 2026 World Cup knockout stage starts with 32 teams remaining. Despite initial skepticism, the expanded group stage proved more entertaining than expected, setting up intriguing last-32 ties.
Matches
Algeria to Face Switzerland in World Cup Round of 32
Algeria will play Switzerland in the World Cup Round of 32. A poll of over 96,000 votes shows 56% favor Switzerland to advance, while 44% back Algeria.
Matches
Austria to Face Spain in World Cup Round of 32
Austria will play Spain in the World Cup Round of 32. A poll shows 89% of voters favor Spain to advance, while 11% back Austria.
News
Jordan and Iran Eliminated from World Cup
Jordan and Iran have been officially eliminated from the FIFA World Cup. The two nations will not advance further in the tournament.
Qualifiers
Nine African Teams Qualify for World Cup Round of 32
A record nine African nations have qualified for the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, including South Africa, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, Ghana, Egypt, DR Congo, and Algeria. Tunisia is the only African team that failed to advance.
Players
James Rodriguez: Cristiano Ronaldo a role model and close friend
James Rodriguez praised Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model, recalling how Ronaldo welcomed him at Real Madrid and they became close friends. He highlighted Ronaldo's physique at 41.
News
Portugal Coach Roberto Martinez Addresses Cristiano Ronaldo Resting
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez praised Cristiano Ronaldo's discipline and physical condition, stating that resting him is not a concern. Martinez emphasized that any changes for the next match will be based on data and information.
Matches
Pitchside camera captures Harry Kane goal against Panama
A pitchside camera operator's perspective shows Harry Kane scoring for England against Panama in the World Cup group match.
Matches
Algeria and Austria Advance to Knockouts After Draw
Algeria and Austria both secured progression to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup after sharing the points in their final group match.
Players
Messi first to score in seven consecutive World Cup games
Lionel Messi has become the first player in history to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, setting a new tournament record.
Matches
Round of 32 Set to Begin at FIFA World Cup
The FIFA World Cup Round of 32 is ready to commence. The tournament continues with knockout-stage matches.
Matches
England Beat Panama to Top Group L at World Cup
England defeated Panama at New York New Jersey Stadium to finish top of Group L in the FIFA World Cup. BBC 5 Live's coverage includes post-match analysis with Alan Shearer, Matthew Upson, Paul Robinson, and interviews with Jude Bellingham, Thomas Tuchel, Marcus Rashford, Ezri Konsa, and Harry Kane.
Matches
World Cup group stage: Best team, moments, matches and players
BBC reporters pick their standout team, player, match and moment from the 2026 World Cup group stage, highlighting France's dominance and Lionel Messi's brilliance.
Teams
South Africa aim to exorcise 2010 World Cup ghosts
South Africa reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time, 16 years after hosting the tournament. The 2010 campaign ended in group-stage elimination, and domestic football stagnated afterward. Now, under coach Hugo Broos, the team aims to start a new era.
Matches
World Cup Last 32: Key Matchups and Storylines to Follow
The World Cup knockout stage begins with 16 ties featuring big names, dark horses, and intriguing subplots. From England's path to the final to clashes like Brazil vs Japan and Netherlands vs Morocco, here's why each match matters.
Teams
South Africa relishing historic moment | FIFA World Cup 2026
South Africa is embracing a historic opportunity as it prepares for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The nation's excitement reflects its passion for football and the significance of hosting a global event.
Guides
BBC Sport Launches Daily Football Guessing Game
BBC Sport introduces a daily 'Who am I?' game where readers guess a footballer using clues. Players score points by identifying the star in as few attempts as possible, with three being a good score and four or five exceptional.
Matches
Congo DR 3-1 Uzbekistan: Historic comeback seals first knockout berth
Congo DR came from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1, securing their first-ever World Cup knockout stage appearance. Goals from Yoane Wissa (2) and Fiston Mayele overturned Eldor Shomurodov's early strike, setting up a Round of 32 clash with England.