FIFA World Cup 2026

The longest group stage in World Cup history has reached its conclusion, and the full round-of-32 line-up is now set. The 48-team tournament has been trimmed to 32, with the knockout bracket locked and a host of mouth-watering ties in…

Senegal and Iraq meet at Toronto Stadium on Friday evening in a Group I encounter where both nations pursue points that could determine their knockout qualification fate. The Lions of Teranga arrive desperate to salvage their tournament…

Norway and France meet at Boston Stadium on Friday evening in a Group I fixture where both nations pursue the top spot following dominant performances throughout the group stage. Ståle Solbakken's side officially secured their knockout…

I should have been more careful. When, last week, I decided to rank eight favourites to win the tournament, it seemed like a straightforward task. But it is not anymore. Ranking eight teams, all perched at the topmost position in eight…

The World Cup rarely offers such neat symmetry. This almost feels scripted. And if it is, I am loving it. Last week, Messi, Mbappe and Haaland scored a total of seven goals within hours of each other. This time they scored a total of six,…

It’s a funny old game. The mighty La Roja tore away Saudi Arabia’s resistance to end the game as a contest within the first half an hour and without needing to enter second gear, but this day will still be rightfully remembered as a day of…

After Iran drew 2-2 with New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, the delegation did not check into their hotel. They went to the airport. The match had ended at approximately 8pm Pacific time. Within hours, the players were on a charter…

New Zealand and Egypt meet at BC Place in Vancouver on Monday morning in a Group G fixture where both nations seek their first tournament victory following opening draws. Darren Bazeley's All Whites secured an impressive 2-2 comeback…

Uruguay and Cape Verde meet at Miami Stadium on Sunday evening in a Group H fixture where both nations arrive seeking to capitalize on their opening results and establish genuine group momentum. Marcelo Bielsa's side disappointed against…

Belgium and Iran meet at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday evening in a Group G fixture, both seeking their first tournament victory after disappointing opening draws. Rudi Garcia's side scrambled to a 1-1 stalemate against Egypt despite…