CONCACAF powerhouse chasing World Cup glory
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.
Senegal has lodged an appeal after CAF has stripped it of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, awarding Morocco the trophy following a controversial final. Senegal's players and officials argue they were forced onto the pitch and deny protesting the refereeing decision. The decision has sparked calls for an investigation into potential corruption within CAF.
Manchester United has reinforced its push for Champions League football, with Casemiro scoring and Bruno Fernandes assisting in a 2-0 win over Brentford. The result consolidates United’s position as their bid for a top-four finish continues, while Casemiro is closing in on a club record for headed goals.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has named a 26-man World Cup squad that has omitted Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and several high-profile players including Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luke Shaw, while Ivan Toney and younger players have been selected; Tuchel has defended the choices as team-focused. (As of 28 May 2026.)
Co-hosts Mexico and the United States are finalising squads amid tactical adjustments, while Canada eyes a strong run in a competitive Group and Scotland look to kick off with momentum. The Guardian and Al Jazeera pieces outline strategic setups and key players ahead of the tournament.
The United States has delivered a convincing 3-2 win over Senegal in Charlotte, marking a clear step forward under Mauricio Pochettino. The tactical base remains a 3-4-2-1, with Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson showing form. Christian Pulisic ends goal drought; Pepi and Dest contribute key moments. Questions remain about the defense in Richards’ absence.
The United States has clinched a World Cup knockout berth after two matches, overcoming Christian Pulisic’s calf injury. Alex Freeman scores twice as the U.S. defeats Australia, overturning a first-half own goal decision on a VAR review and signaling progression to the Round of 16. Balogun also netted, giving the U.S. a decisive 2-0 lead and setting the stage for further rounds in Group D.