France defenders confident of handling Yamal threat ahead of Spain semi-final
Maxence Lacroix and Ibrahima Konaté insist Les Bleus have the quality to contain Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final against Spain.
FIFA World Cup
Infantino suggests 64-team World Cup expansion before 2030
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has raised the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams before the 2030 tournament. The proposal would mark a further increase from the 48-team format debuting in 2026.
Bellingham matches 40-year Maradona record with consecutive World Cup doubles
Jude Bellingham has become the first player in four decades to score twice in successive World Cup knockout matches, matching a record set by Diego Maradona in 1986. The Real Madrid forward has now netted seven World Cup goals.
Switzerland Criticise VAR After Embolo Red Card Destroys World Cup Quarter-Final Hope
Switzerland coach Murat Yakin has strongly criticised VAR officials after Breel Embolo received a controversial second yellow card for simulation during the World Cup quarter-final defeat to Argentina.
Messi gifts Baggio match-worn shirt after Argentina’s World Cup quarter-final win
Lionel Messi presented Italy legend Roberto Baggio with his match-worn shirt after Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 in extra-time to reach the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. Baggio thanked the Argentina captain on Instagram for the precious gift.
Kane poised to break England outfield caps record against Argentina
Harry Kane equalled Wayne Rooney’s England outfield appearance record with his 120th cap against Norway. The Bayern Munich striker is expected to surpass that total in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina.
England reach World Cup 2026 semi-finals after beating Norway
England have advanced to the semi-finals of the World Cup 2026 following a quarter-final victory over Norway. The result has prompted reaction from observers, including commentary on football’s rule-making body.
Saliba and Upamecano miss France training but expected to face Spain
William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano were absent from France’s latest training session, though both defenders remain expected to feature in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final against Spain.
Belgium to review Garcia contract after controversial Courtois substitution
Rudi Garcia faces an uncertain future after substituting Thibaut Courtois during Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final loss to Spain. The Royal Belgian Football Association will review his contract before it expires at the end of the month.
De Bruyne vows to return stronger for Napoli after Belgium World Cup exit
Kevin De Bruyne has promised Napoli supporters he will come back stronger next season following Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final defeat to Spain. The midfielder plans a short rest before joining Massimiliano Allegri’s pre-season squad.