world-cup

The six-finger myth: The truth behind Ochoa’s legend and the European contract it allegedly cost him

Gloria Martín — Sat, 02 May 2026 15:34:41 +0200

Guillermo Ochoa’s participation in his sixth World Cup continues to spark debate, at least on Fox Sports’ La Última Palabra, where the show highlighted his talent but questioned why he never made it to a major European club. This led Paul Aguilar to debunk the myth about Memo Ochoa supposedly having six fingers, which reportedly derailed his transfer to Olympiakos in Greece, as the club believed the false story.

Lionel Messi makes a fan scream in a memorable moment thanks to a Panini sticker pack

Roberto Ortega — Fri, 01 May 2026 17:15:31 +0200

A young fan opened a Panini World Cup sticker pack while walking down the street, casually going through each name and reacting in her own way to the players she pulled. Sometimes even with a touch of humor when she didn’t recognize someone. Then everything changed. The moment Lionel Messi appeared, the reaction was instant. A scream, a run, pure disbelief. Uncontainable joy.

Lionel Messi turns a sticker into pure madness

Roberto Ortega — Fri, 01 May 2026 17:05:54 +0200

A simple Panini pack turned into a moment she’ll never forget. One by one, she flips through the stickers, reacting casually until Lionel Messi appears. The scream, the run, the disbelief pure joy in its rawest form. That’s the effect Messi still has, even from a piece of paper.

Mbappé under scrutiny in France: “He can’t do what Olise and Dembélé do”

Francisco Villalobos — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:06:32 +0200

These are not easy times for Kylian Mbappé, who has been criticized for his performances at Real Madrid and is now also being questioned with the French national team, especially when compared to other French stars such as Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé, who recently shone in PSG’s historic 5–4 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Buy Spain vs. Cabo Verde 2026 World Cup tickets on Tickets MARCA

Francisco Villalobos — Fri, 01 May 2026 10:12:11 +0200

Spain will make their debut in Group H of the 2026 World Cup against Cabo Verde. Luis de la Fuente’s side will be looking to start with a win to put qualification for the next round on track, in a group that also includes Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.

Buy Argentina vs Algeria 2026 World Cup tickets on Tickets MARCA

Francisco Villalobos — Fri, 01 May 2026 09:52:29 +0200

Argentina will make their debut in Group J of the 2026 World Cup against Algeria. Lionel Scaloni’s side will be aiming to start with a win to put qualification for the next round on track, in a group that also includes Austria and Jordan.

Is the World Cup for everyone? Amid backlash, Infantino defends pricing, promising $60 'economic' tickets

Gloria Martín — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 23:32:26 +0200

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has spoken about the future challenges facing FIFA, an upcoming historic World Cup, and the rules to promote respect among players and toward the referee in his speech during the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver.

“Ancelotti is right: Neymar is not fit to play the World Cup”

Francisco Villalobos — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:43:29 +0200

Neymar’s performance against San Lorenzo (1–1) in the Copa Sudamericana sparked widespread reaction across the football world. It was seen as a high-profile test for the Brazilian to show that he deserves a place in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup under Carlo Ancelotti. However, for some — including Argentine journalist Toti Pasman (Bolavip) — it was proof that the Santos forward should not be called up.

Neymar hints at Ancelotti regarding the 2026 World Cup and doesn't rule out a Brazil vs. Argentina final

Nicole Somma — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:31:40 +0200

Neymar was once again the center of attention in the 2026 Copa Sudamericana during Santos’ 1-1 draw against San Lorenzo at Estadio Pedro Bidegain in Argentina. And it wasn’t just because of the result or his closeness to the fans.

Shock in the football world: World Cup referee detained amid minor sexual assault investigation

Gloria Martín — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:26:27 +0200

An alleged scandal rocks the world of refereeing. According to "The Telegraph", a foreign referee was allegedly arrested in the United Kingdom accused of sexually abusing a minor.

Éder Militão underwent successful surgery and sent a message to his fans: “Thank you all from the bottom of my heart”

Nicole Somma — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:30:51 +0200

Real Madrid defender Éder Militão underwent successful surgery on Tuesday to treat a tear in his proximal biceps femoris tendon, an injury that forced him to end his season with the Whites.

Cristiano Ronaldo aims for history: The 5 records he could break at the 2026 World Cup

Nicole Somma — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 21:34:21 +0200

Only 43 days separate us from the start of a new edition of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be more than special. Not only because it is the first to feature three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—or because it will host 28 teams, but because it could be the last dance for several soccer stars. Among them, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Francia vs Senegal: 2026 World Cup Tickets Available on Tickets MARCA

Ryan Mitchell — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:05:38 +0200

France will make their debut in Group I of the 2026 World Cup against Senegal. Didier Deschamps' side will be aiming to start with a win to put qualification for the next round on track, in a group that also includes Norway and Iraq.

Portugal vs. DR Congo: 2026 World Cup Tickets Available on Tickets MARCA

Ryan Mitchell — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:47:08 +0200

Portugal will make their debut in Group K of the 2026 World Cup against the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Roberto Martínez's side will be looking to open the tournament with a win to put their qualification for the next round on track, in a group that also includes Uzbekistan and Colombia, their toughest rival on paper.

Modric suffers a double cheekbone fracture: World Cup with a mask?

R. JIMÉNEZ — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:00:11 +0200

Modric will miss the rest of the Serie A season after the blow he received to his face in the match against Juventus. This is according to Croatian media outlet Sportske Novosti: "Luka Modric has a double cheekbone fracture and his season in Milan is over".

Xavi compares Neymar to Messi and names Brazil among the World Cup favorites

Nicole Somma — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 20:59:04 +0200

Although they were teammates for only two seasons (2013-2015), the duo of Xavi Hernández and Neymar Jr. left their mark on Barcelona. And not just because together they won a Champions League title, a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup, but because of the talent both players exuded on the field.

No light at the end of the tunnel: Why Camavinga's struggles define Real Madrid's brutal 2026 season

PABLO POLO — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 16:49:04 +0200

Eduardo Camavinga ends a more than complicated season. It is for Real Madrid and for Arbeloa himself, with La Liga already lost, waiting for the curtain to come down as soon as possible. For the Frenchman, these remaining games are not helping him to regain his confidence, which has been badly shaken since the infamous sending-off against Bayern. The Frenchman lacked experience at the Allianz, when he held on to the ball when he was already on a yellow card, and the referee's error did the rest.

James Rodriguez promises to be ready for the World Cup: "I'm training to the maximum, whatever I play is going to help"

Ryan Mitchell — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 08:16:41 +0200

James Rodriguez was back in action for Minnesota United and this time he left better news than in previous performances. The Colombian was in the starting lineup in front of his home fans and, although he could not prevent his team's defeat to LAFC (0-1), he offered good feelings after the 63 minutes he was on the pitch.

Why Real Madrid star Arda Güler might be the most promising talent to watch at the World Cup

Angel Nakamura — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 23:03:57 +0200

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, one name is rapidly moving from "young talent" to must-watch star: Arda Güler.

Xavi Simons raises concerns after knee injury that could rule him out of the World Cup

Roberto Ortega — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 22:28:48 +0200

During a routine play in the match between Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton Wanderers, Xavi Simons went down after planting his foot while in motion. There was no heavy collision or clear contact, just a natural movement that quickly turned into a worrying scene. Within seconds, attention shifted away from the game and toward the condition of the Dutch midfielder.

Bruno Fernandes activates Argentina's World Cup-winning plan in Portugal to help Cristiano Ronaldo match Messi

Ryan Mitchell — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 16:13:10 +0200

Portugal have never won a World Cup, but everyone knows that it is the title that Cristiano Ronaldo is missing from his record. Especially to match Lionel Messi in his personal battle to be the best in history. The Argentine was able to lift the coveted trophy at the last World Cup in 2022 and took a great weight off his shoulders

Militao set for surgery and could miss World Cup

SERGIO RODRÍGUEZ C. — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:29:17 +0200

Injuries are once again a headache for Eder Militao. As reported by 'Tiempo de Juego de COPE', the Real Madrid defender could undergo surgery, which would rule him out of this summer's World Cup.

Mbappé gives France another scare ahead of the World Cup: new injury with Real Madrid

Joel del Río — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:35:21 +0200

Kylian Mbappe noticed something strange in his left leg... and decided to stop dead in his tracks. It was the 81st minute and with the score at 0-1, the Frenchman raised his arms asking for a change from the coaching staff. He left the pitch under his own steam, but his face said it all. "I have no idea. He was uncomfortable and we'll see how he evolves over the next few days," Arbeloa said in a press conference. He was not yet aware of the first examination by the medical services, which would come shortly afterwards.

Flick sends message to Lamine Yamal: 'Learn from this' ahead of World Cup journey

Cristina Navarro — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:31:52 +0200

Hansi Flick appeared on Friday to analyse the current situation at Barcelona and the match against Getafe. During the coach's press conference, there was one name that dominated many of the questions: Lamine Yamal. The coach said that he has to learn from this situation, as he had never had a muscle injury before, and wished him a great World Cup. On the Azulones, he warned that they are in great form and highlighted their defence. He also hinted that Raphinha and Bernal could return next week.

The 5 stars racing against the clock on the road to the 2026 World Cup

Nicole Somma — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 22:35:11 +0200

Injuries are part of the game, but when they occur in the run-up to a major tournament like the World Cup, their impact is even greater.

Lamine Yamal's father prays after his son's injury

Nicole Somma — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:46:33 +0200

Barcelona managed to beat Celta de Vigo 1-0 at Spotify Camp Nou, thanks to a penalty kick by Lamine Yamal, but they also lost the young forward for the rest of the season.

Messi and Mbappé lead deadly strikers to watch during 2026 World Cup

Nicole Somma — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:53:53 +0200

With just 50 days to go before the start of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, fans have not only sparked debate over the contenders for the title but have also turned their attention to the strikers arriving at the peak of their careers, the legends who may be playing in their final major tournament, and the young players looking to establish themselves among the elite.

FIFA shuts down Italy World Cup twist as Iran stance sparks global reaction

Roberto Ortega — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:47:34 +0200

FIFA has no plans to replace Iran with Italy at this summer's World Cup, despite a proposal linked to allies of Donald Trump. The suggestion came from Paolo Zampolli, who told the Financial Times he had recommended to both Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino that the Italian national team take Iran's place in the tournament.

A world champion questions Neymar's presence at the 2026 World Cup: "He's not at the level he needs to be"

Nicole Somma — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:14:57 +0200

The countdown to the 2026 World Cup is not only filled with expectations but also accompanied by great uncertainty: Neymar's future with the Brazil national team.

Double injury blow: Real Madrid confirms Militao and Arda Güler are out for the season

J. I. GARCÍA-OCHOA/ JOEL DEL RÍO — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:05:23 +0200

Bad news for Real Madrid. Arda Guler and Eder Militao both suffered hamstring injuries and will miss the rest of the season. The Turk suffered the injury in his right leg, while the Brazilian's is in his left. Of the two, the central defender's injury is more worrying, as his presence at the World Cup is in doubt.

Is Barça's loss Spain's gain? Lamine Yamal out for the season, but expected to be fit for the 2026 World Cup

M. CARMEN TORRES — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:25:24 +0200

Barcelona offered the long-awaited and feared diagnosis of Lamine Yamal on Thursday. The Blaugrana attacker was injured in the LaLiga clash against Celta and underwent different tests on Thursday morning, which confirmed that he is suffering from a hamstring injury in his left leg.

Travis Kelce's World Cup appearance could reveal more about his wedding plans with Taylor Swift

SAM — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:02:34 +0200

Travis Kelce's offseason is beginning to fill up, and one high-profile commitment during the 2026 World Cup has quietly intensified speculation about his much-anticipated wedding to Taylor Swift.

The Trump administration proposes that Italy replace Iran in the 2026 World Cup

Ryan Mitchell — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:57:33 +0200

Trump administration envoy has urged FIFA to replace Iran with Italy for the 2026 World Cup, according to a report from the Financial Times. The proposal has sparked a sports-diplomacy controversy, pitting a frustrated European power against a geopolitical rival.

New York City faces unexpected World Cup issue as bathroom shortage raises concern

Roberto Ortega — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:27:26 +0200

With just weeks to go before the FIFA World Cup 2026, New York City is facing a problem few expected but one that could affect millions of visitors: a shortage of public bathrooms.

Erling Haaland's unexpected taco obsession shows hilarious Mexican side

Nicole Somma — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:02:32 +0200

Erling Haaland was the star of Manchester City's 2-1 victory over Arsenal on Sunday, the 19th, at the Etihad. However, away from goals and soccer, the Norwegian surprised his fans once again by revealing a little-known side of himself: his love for Mexican food, especially tacos.

Neymar snub triggers new favoritism accusations against Ancelotti

Ryan Mitchell — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 11:08:45 +0200

The Neymar issue continues to dominate the news surrounding the Brazilian national team, as the date approaches when Carlo Ancelotti will have to make a definitive decision on whether or not to include him in the Canarinha squad for the World Cup. The doubt remains in the air and the issue has become entrenched.

Can Timo Werner make a final push to be included in the Germany roster for the World Cup?

Angel Nakamura — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:30:06 +0200

For Timo Werner, the move to MLS wasn't just a change of scenery. It was a calculated decision to keep his international career alive.

Guillermo Hoyos is poised to remain with Lionel Messi and Inter Miami through the 2026 World Cup

Nicole Somma — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:28:59 +0200

Ángel Guillermo Hoyos is beginning to establish himself as a key figure in Inter Miami's current lineup. After taking over as interim coach following Javier Mascherano's departure, Hoyos not only made an immediate impact on the field but may also remain in the head coaching role for several more months.

FIFA World Cup 2026 brings scheduling disruptions for 13 NFL teams sharing stadiums

George Gordillo — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:01:21 +0200

The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has officially entered its final sprint. With just over 50 days remaining until the massive opening ceremony and first match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11, the preparations have shifted from planning to physical transformation. Iconic venues like Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles are receiving their final "World Cup" touches to accommodate the tournament's historic expansion.

Erling Haaland explained why his girlfriend, Isabel Haugseng Johansen, was upset after the match vs. Arsenal

Nicole Somma — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:28:35 +0200

Erling Haaland was once again in the spotlight following Manchester City's 2-1 victory over Arsenal on Sunday at the Etihad, but this time not only for his performance on the field, but also for a curious situation in his personal life.

Lamine Yamal receives a logical injury risk warning that makes total sense

Nicole Somma — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:03:53 +0200

At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has already established himself as one of Barcelona's most important players thanks to his attacking prowess and goal-scoring ability. However, a Dutch soccer legend has issued a strong warning regarding the young forward.

World Cup Alarm for Argentina: Messi's teammate is injured and the World Cup is in jeopardy

Fabián Torres — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:02:07 +0200

Leandro Paredes once again raised alarm bells in the Argentina national team after suffering a muscle injury in the second half during Boca Juniors' victory at River Plate.

Diego Luna is causing Mauricio Pochettino a big headache with World Cup push

Angel Nakamura — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 23:46:06 +0200

Diego Luna is building momentum at exactly the right moment, and his latest performance for Real Salt Lake may have pushed him firmly into the United States men's national soccer team conversation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Former Brazil international is clear: "Vinicius is missing something"

Ryan Mitchell — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 17:34:24 +0200

Vinicius Jr. is not going through his best moment at Real Madrid. After a difficult season with his team, with ups and downs in his performance, he is once again at the center of criticism after his poor performance in the tie against Bayern Munich. In this context came the assessment of Joao Miranda, former player of Atletico Madrid and the Brazilian national team.

Liga MX fines Mazatlan coach for sexism against Katia Itzel Garcia, 2026 World Cup referee

NACHO LABARGA — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 10:54:45 +0200

The Mexican Football Federation took action on Friday and sanctioned Club Mazatlan coach Sergio Bueno for his "improper" conduct during the match against Pumas. The focus was on referee Katia Itzel Garcia, who will be at the 2026 World Cup. The sanction: a financial fine and hours of community service aimed at gender equity. No figures. No details of time.

Gianni Infantino announces superstar band for 2026 World Cup Final Halftime Show

Jorge Ávila Andrade — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 01:44:47 +0200

The 2026 World Cup Final is set to feature an extra dose of entertainment. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that British band Coldplay, led by Chris Martin, will be the first confirmed act for the halftime show of the decisive match.

The 'miracle' James Rodriguez and Colombia need for the World Cup

Ryan Mitchell — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:39:00 +0200

James Rodriguez is racing against time to reach his best possible form for the 2026 World Cup. The Colombian has two months to achieve this, and from what has been seen so far with Minnesota United in the United States, he is far from the goal. Inactivity and other factors, such as his recent health problem due to severe dehydration, do not help

Gary Lineker reveals why Cristiano Ronaldo unfollowed him on Instagram: Is Messi involved?

Nicole Somma — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:41:54 +0200

Over the past two decades, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have maintained a constant rivalry, standing out for their goals, team and individual titles, and on-field achievements.

NJ Gov. Mikie Sherrill slams FIFA over World Cup train fares

Ryan Mitchell — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:34:13 +0200

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill addressed reports that NJ Transit fares from MetLife Stadium to New York Penn Station could exceed $100 on FIFA World Cup matchdays, pushing back on the potential burden for commuters.

Mbappé and France look to break two World Cup curses

Jose Rodriguez — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:39:00 +0200

There is no doubt that the France national team, led by Kylian Mbappé and featuring a squad full of world-class talent, is one of the top favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Didier Deschamps' side will have to break two historic World Cup curses that weigh heavily on favorites.