Neymar called up for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad as Ancelotti eyes him as a forward option. Brazilian star, born 1992, left winger.
Vinícius Júnior has rescued Brazil with a late equaliser to earn a 1-1 draw against Morocco in Group C. Ismael Saibari had given Morocco a 21st-minute lead before Vinícius struck from Bruno Guimarães’ assist, ensuring Brazil avoid an upset in their World Cup opener. Neymar remains sidelined.
On April 1, 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated four-time World Cup champions Italy in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, ending Italy's streak of World Cup appearances and securing Bosnia's place in the 2026 tournament. Italy's coach Gennaro Gattuso resigned following the loss. The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams across North America, with Bosnia placed in Group B.
Saudi Arabia has appointed Greek coach Georgios Donis to lead their national team for the 2026 World Cup, replacing Hervé Renard. Donis, who has extensive experience in Saudi football, will oversee preparations for the tournament, which begins in June. The team is in Group H with Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde.
Neymar has apologised publicly after an on-field confrontation with Robinho Jr., son of former Brazil star Robinho, at Santos. The clash followed a training-room incident reportedly over being dribbled past; Neymar has since hugged Robinho Jr. after scoring in a Copa Sudamericana draw in Paraguay. Santos has opened an investigation.
Irish celebrities and sports figures have joined a campaign urging the Republic of Ireland to boycott UEFA Nations League matches against Israel, amid claims of genocide in Gaza and breaches of UEFA/FIFA rules. The open letter to the FAI, backed by prominent signatories, argues humanitarian concerns should take precedence over sport. Ireland is set to host Israel on October 4 at Aviva Stadium, with a September 27 neutral-site Israeli home match planned.
Neymar has been fighting to prove his fitness for Brazil ahead of the World Cup 2026. He is involved in a high-profile substitution mix-up at Santos, which has intensified debate over his place in the squad. Ancelotti is weighing eligibility as Brazil finalises its 26-man squad.
Brazil has named a 26-man World Cup squad, with Neymar included after fitness improvements. Joao Pedro is omitted, drawing reaction from fans and clubs as Brazil prepare for group-stage matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The World Cup is expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches this summer, with sportsbooks and prediction markets driving a record- breaking wagering surge in the United States. Analysts say mobile betting, broader formats, and mainstream interest are fueling this growth, while U.S. lawmakers weigh regulation of prediction markets.
Argentina has named a 26-man World Cup squad, led by Lionel Messi, despite a left hamstring fatigue that has sidelined him from Inter Miami's latest match. Recovery times vary; Argentina will base in Kansas City with friendlies in the lead-up.
Neymar has sustained a grade-two calf strain and is expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks, ruling him out of Brazil’s friendlies and likely their World Cup opener. The injury was confirmed after MRI testing at Granja Comary and a private clinic in Teresópolis.
Irish activists have disrupted a Dublin friendly between Ireland and Qatar by throwing tennis balls on the pitch to protest upcoming Nations League games against Israel. The protests have intensified pressure on the Football Association of Ireland to boycott the Israel fixtures, with dates set for September and October. Ireland’s coach and players have called for peaceful protest while insisting the matches will go ahead.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente is overseeing a squad built on youth and experience as uncertainty surrounds Lamine Yamal's fitness ahead of the World Cup opener. The team remains among the favorites, with Nico Williams and a strong midfield backing them, while Spanish football's development system is highlighted by the coach's background.
The Brazilian team prepares for its World Cup opener against Morocco as Neymar's calf injury casts doubt on his participation. Wesley’s thigh injury has sidelined him, while Brito’s passing is mourned by the federation. Marquinhos is named captain as the squad faces scrutiny over expectations and history.
A consortium of experts highlights Spain and Argentina as hot favourites for the World Cup, with Spain aiming to translate recent European success to the global stage. France, England, Brazil, Portugal and others are also named contenders as the tournament unfolds in North America.