Robbie proposes:
- 1h ago Palace set to appoint Sage as head coach
- 2h ago Scotland World Cup reader Q&A with Ewan Murray
- 3h ago US stadium and hotel workers threaten strikes ‘to ensure fairness’ during World Cup
- 4h ago Football regulator may compel David Sullivan to divest West Ham stake
- 6h ago Football regulator engages with West Ham regarding Sullivan allegations
- 6h ago Platini lodges criminal complaint against Infantino
- 6h ago Iran announces ticket allocation has been rescinded
- 7h ago Preamble
Shifting dynamics in club football require teams to innovate and engage their audiences continuously.
Divine Mukasa has secured a contract extension with Manchester City, ensuring his presence at the Etihad Stadium through 2030. The English youth international made his senior debut for City in September 2025, amassing six appearances for the first team. His development has continued positively following a loan to Leicester, despite the club’s struggles. Mukasa is set to join the team for their summer tour.
Good afternoon, fellow football fans.
Now, I will pass the baton to John Brewin, who will expertly guide you through the next few hours. Cheers!
Let’s explore Didier Deschamps’ insights on the remarkable Michael Olise, who scored a hat-trick in France’s 3-1 triumph over Northern Ireland last night.
“He’s been exceptional this season at Bayern, delivering impressive performances for us. His confidence is at an all-time high, and he consistently makes impactful contributions. As an attacking player, he combines a strong work ethic with his skills. Although he may not be very expressive, his reserved demeanor is quite appealing.”
Time to revisit some unforgettable World Cup highlights, particularly focusing on Saipan.
Alex Reid’s piece on World Cup mascots is a delightful read, filled with amusing descriptions such as “the angular football-headed monstrosity” and “soulless, corporate, anthropomorphic animal slop.”
Ed Aarons, our Crystal Palace expert, provides further updates on Pierre Sage’s expected appointment as Oliver Glasner’s successor.
In notable non-World Cup news, Sky Sports News reports that Crystal Palace has come to an initial agreement to appoint Pierre Sage as their new head coach.
In what will be his final season at Lens, Sage’s squad secured the Coupe de France and finished as Ligue 1 runners-up, just six points behind a dominant Paris Saint-Germain team, matching the club’s best finish since their only league title in 1997-98. PSG’s eighth-place finish that season serves as a reminder of how the past can feel distant.
Wolves are gearing up to re-sign Raúl Jiménez after the Mexican striker reached a two-year agreement to return to Molineux. The club is keen to secure immediate promotion back to the Premier League, having recently signed former England defender Kieran Trippier.
Jiménez, who is part of Mexico’s World Cup squad, is a free agent after spending three seasons in the top flight with Fulham. He made a significant impact during his initial spell at Wolves before suffering a fractured skull injury that sidelined him for nine months, affecting his subsequent seasons at the club.
In recent men’s World Cup tournaments, FIFA has navigated complex immigration and entry regulations. Brazil’s 2014 law allowed ticket holders to obtain temporary visas, while Russia and Qatar utilized Fan IDs and Hayya cards for entry, enabling free public transport.
This will not be the case in 2026, as FIFA finds itself caught in the stringent border policies of the second Trump administration. Numerous individuals have encountered difficulties.
Another memorable World Cup moment occurred in 1974 when Haiti achieved a shocking victory over Italy.
“After 1,143 minutes, an unheralded 22-year-old shattered Zoff’s record, earning $200 a month while playing for Don Bosco of Pétionville.”
South Africa will face Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in Thursday’s opening match. Their coach, Hugo Broos, a 74-year-old Belgian, was part of the Belgium squad that reached the semi-finals in 1986. Notably, he played at the Azteca during Mexico’s opening match of that tournament.
“It was an incredible event that I will never forget. Forty years ago, we played our opening game against Mexico. That was when I truly understood the significance of the World Cup. As a player, I felt immense joy, motivation, and excitement. Now, returning here 40 years later is simply astounding. Once again, I feel excited. This will be a remarkable experience for us, especially since many of my players have never encountered a situation like this before. Sticking to our game plan and ignoring the crowd’s influence will be crucial.”
Broos, who commenced his coaching journey in 1988, intends to retire after South Africa’s tournament concludes.
“After the World Cup, I will retire and spend the next 20 years with my family and grandchildren. I’ve contemplated stepping away from the game for years. I no longer wish to be involved in football daily. My energy has waned… At times, I struggle to muster the motivation to watch a match.”
Despite this, he will be full of energy as he prepares for Thursday.
Join us at 5pm BST for our Q&A session with Ewan Murray, our Scotland correspondent, who will be available to answer your questions.
The early days of the internet were quite innocent. Here’s Gary Lineker during the 2002 World Cup, humorously critiquing an American report about their match against Mexico.
“64 min: GOAL Mexico 0 – 2 USA. Two soccer points to no score! Eddie Lewis makes a cross-pitch play from the left zone, finding Landon Donovan alone in the danger area. He top-bodies the sphere into the score bag, and Mexico has a double-negative stat!”
Our Experts’ Network has collaborated to produce comprehensive guides for all 512 players participating in the World Cup.
Here’s an excerpt from Jesús Valdéz’s guide on one of the co-hosts.
“Mexico will arrive at their home World Cup carrying a unique blend of excitement, pressure, and a need for self-connection. Co-hosting alongside the United States and Canada spared them from a grueling qualifying campaign, but it also eliminated the chance to build competitive momentum. That is why manager Javier Aguirre has turned friendlies and regional competitions into character assessments. Aguirre’s approach is more pragmatic than aesthetic. Mexico doesn’t seek to dominate through excessive possession; they play with intensity, aggressive pressing, and rapid transitions. Aguirre aims to make his team challenging to face, as demonstrated in recent friendlies against Portugal and Belgium. He states: ‘In a World Cup, the team that plays the prettiest football doesn’t always prevail. The team that knows how to compete does.’ A versatile 4-3-3 formation can shift to a 4-2-3-1 or even a 4-4-2 based on the opponent. Edson Álvarez acts as the midfield anchor, while Érik Lira is the quiet force balancing the team, with Gilberto Mora, Brian Gutiérrez, and Álvaro Fidalgo providing movement. Out wide, Alexis Vega and Roberto Alvarado contribute pace and unpredictability, while Raúl Jiménez and Armando González alternate as attacking threats.”
Aguirre’s approach is more pragmatic than aesthetic. Mexico doesn’t seek to dominate through excessive possession; they play with intensity, aggressive pressing, and rapid transitions. Aguirre aims to make his team challenging to face, as demonstrated in recent friendlies against Portugal and Belgium. He states: ‘In a World Cup, the team that plays the prettiest football doesn’t always prevail. The team that knows how to compete does.’”
A flexible 4-3-3 formation can shift to a 4-2-3-1 or even a 4-4-2 based on the opponent. Edson Álvarez acts as the midfield anchor, while Érik Lira is the quiet force balancing the team, with Gilberto Mora, Brian Gutiérrez, and Álvaro Fidalgo providing movement. Out wide, Alexis Vega and Roberto Alvarado contribute pace and unpredictability, while Raúl Jiménez and Armando González alternate as attacking threats.
In today’s major news, Iran’s football federation has announced that their World Cup ticket allocation has been revoked just days before the tournament kicks off.
We’ve come a long way from trying to fit Shoot! magazine’s league ladders into the right slots.
Here’s a classic piece from Scott Murray about the unforgettable Argentina versus England match in 1986.
On a scorching Sunday in Mexico City, two long-standing rivals faced off in a quarter-final shootout, having not met in a World Cup for two decades and carrying grievances. Rattín’s Revenge! Or as various tabloids dubbed it: Falklands II.
Only five of the 32 teams in the last World Cup represented Africa. This year, that number rises to 10 out of 48. Osasu Obayiuwana examines which teams might replicate Morocco’s success from 2022.
Our New York sports desk has spent the past four years ranking the USMNT’s top 25 World Cup goals. Yes, Eric Wynalda is undoubtedly in the top three.
David Squires on… the World Cup
As football’s premier event approaches North America, our cartoonist crafts a touching narrative surrounding the FIFA president.
Somalia’s Ministry of Sports has expressed “deep regret” that referee Omar Artan will not participate in the World Cup after being denied entry into the United States.
In their statement, the Ministry of Sports reiterated its “unwavering support” for Artan, stating, “We have full confidence in his integrity, professionalism, and ongoing contributions to the advancement of football both in Somalia and globally… Artan represents the pinnacle of Somali talent.”
Thanks, Tom. Greetings to everyone. Let’s kick off this segment with another reminder of our guide to all 1,248 players participating in this year’s World Cup. Surely, I can’t be the only one eagerly anticipating this kid’s performance on Thursday.
That’s my time on the blog done. Now, I hand over to Rob Smyth.
Hospitality and food service personnel in several U.S. cities hosting World Cup matches are alerting the public about potential labor disputes and strikes as the world’s largest single-sport tournament gears up for its kick-off on June 11.
In Los Angeles, approximately 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium, represented by Unite Here Local 11, overwhelmingly voted 96% in favor of authorizing a strike as they seek a new union contract that includes wage increases and protections from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Cashiers, dishwashers, cooks, bartenders, concessions staff, and food attendants at the stadium could walk off the job at any moment. The US’s opening match against Paraguay is slated to occur at SoFi Stadium on June 12.
“We’re simply striving for fairness,” stated Eva Miles, a bartender at SoFi Stadium since its inception in 2021. “Without us, they wouldn’t have a stadium. Are they going to cook? Are they going to pour those drinks? Are they going to serve the attendees?”
In transfer news, Falkirk has secured Ethan Laidlaw from Brentford for an undisclosed fee.
The Scotland youth international spent three years in London after leaving Hibernian and was voted the players’ player of the year for Brentford B last season, contributing 15 goals and 10 assists, including 12 goals in his final 12 appearances.
The Edinburgh-born forward, now 21, has signed a two-year contract with an option for an additional year.
Manager John McGlynn noted that Laidlaw was well known to him and his assistant, Paul Smith.
“His father, Stevie, played under Paul at Berwick and was a very accomplished striker,” McGlynn remarked on the club’s website.
“During much of his time there, he played as a striker for Brentford B, but this season he has also played wide, as well as centrally.
“He had an impressive season. His direct running, strength, and power, combined with his ability to position himself correctly and score goals, are qualities that drew us to him.”
Quiz enthusiasts, I managed to score 22 out of 26. Surely, you can outperform that. Go!
It’s full-time in Sydney, with the Matildas triumphing over Mexico 3-1, thanks to goals from Alanna Kennedy, Caitlin Foord, and an unfortunate own goal from Esthefanny Barreras.
Find the reaction with Jo Khan here:
Away from the often disheartening Geopolitics World Cup, there’s a more uplifting side in the summer transfer window, with numerous famous footballers about to become briefly unemployed.
With so many notable names seeking a change of scenery, my colleague Michael Butler has assembled two age-group teams. Check it out:
Reuven Fletcher has written in, calling for referees to support Omar Artan after US Customs denied the Somali national entry to officiate at the World Cup:
“As officials, we are arbiters of the game and must intervene in instances of on-pitch racism. It’s time for the officials at World Cup 2026 to stand in solidarity with a colleague. If individuals like Anthony Taylor and Michael Oliver, whose families have deep roots in the mining community of Ashington, Northumberland, have any integrity, they will refuse to officiate until Omar Artan is granted entry into the US and allowed to referee. This is about workplace solidarity, decency, and standing against racism—values that once held significance in our society. Frankly, history will not judge them kindly if they abandon a colleague.”
Amidst these unfolding events, the football regulator is poised to potentially force David Sullivan to divest his stake in West Ham United following accusations of sexual exploitation and predatory behavior against women spanning several decades.
The 77-year-old recently announced his resignation as director and co-chair of the football club ahead of a joint investigation by media outlets revealing multiple women accusing him of sexual misconduct.
Three women alleged that Sullivan exploited his position as the owner of the Sports newspapers to prey on them for sexual favors while they sought employment. Additionally, four women accused Sullivan of exploitative behavior, including attempts to pressure them into sexual encounters during business meetings.
Media reports indicate that dozens of former models and industry insiders were interviewed, with some sources suggesting Sullivan was notorious for “casting couch” behavior.
Full story from Jacob Steinberg:
Regarding the allegations against the now former West Ham chairman David Sullivan, a spokesperson for the UK’s Department for Culture, Media and Sport stated: “These deeply concerning allegations must be taken with the utmost seriousness and investigated by the relevant authorities, ensuring victims receive the support they require.”
Before the allegations were made public, Sullivan stated he “categorically denies” all claims.
Neither he nor his legal counsel have provided further public comments since the reports surfaced in the Times and BBC on Monday.
Good morning, blog fans! Who knew the Geopolitics World Cup would bring so much drama?
Recent research indicates that this tournament is projected to have a climate impact more than double that of Qatar 2022. The expanded 2026 World Cup, featuring 48 teams across North America, is expected to generate 7.8 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to an assessment published last week by the global carbon accounting platform Greenly. This is roughly equivalent to the annual emissions of 1.7 million cars or the yearly emissions of Sierra Leone, making it the most polluting World Cup in history, as noted by academics and environmental advocates, primarily due to the extensive travel distances required for teams, fans, and media across the three-country, 16-city format.
Researchers estimate that up to 87% of the tournament’s emissions will result from travel—mainly flights—as millions of fans traverse the vast landscape of the tournament, which spans 2,800 miles from Vancouver to Miami. This makes it inherently more carbon-intensive than the compact Qatar event, which faced criticism for constructing seven new stadiums. Greenhouse gas emissions for Qatar were estimated at approximately 3.8 million tonnes.
Now, I’ll hand the liveblog reins over to Tom Bassam. Bye for now!
Of course, competitive World Cup action unfolds tonight, presenting a significant test for England’s women as they seek redemption following their heavy defeat to Spain last Friday. They will face Ukraine at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and Lauren Hemp remains optimistic:
A World Cup summer serves as a fantastic showcase, albeit sometimes a confusing and misleading one, with a plethora of out-of-contract talent available, from emerging stars to seasoned veterans. Michael Butler pits the 20-somethings against the 30-somethings:
Away from the World Cup, the latest allegations against the now former West Ham chairman have drawn the attention of the new regulator, as reported by PA Media:
“The football regulator is in communication with West Ham following allegations made against co-owner David Sullivan regarding pressuring aspiring models for sex. The 77-year-old recently resigned as chairman of the east London club to contest what he claims are ‘false allegations’ regarding his conduct. On Monday, the BBC and Times reported accounts from seven women alleging that Mr. Sullivan engaged in sexually exploitative and predatory behavior. The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) stated it is in contact with the football club to gather information about Mr. Sullivan’s suitability as a co-owner in light of these claims, which he denies. An IFR spokesperson stated: ‘These are extremely serious allegations. We are in contact with West Ham regarding this matter and will employ our statutory powers to seek urgent information from David Sullivan concerning his suitability under our owners, directors, and senior executives regime. We cannot comment further at this time.’ The allegations from the women date back to the 1980s and 1990s, during which he owned the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport tabloid newspapers.”
The 77-year-old recently resigned as chairman of the east London club to contest what he claims are ‘false allegations’ regarding his conduct.
On Monday, the BBC and Times reported accounts from seven women alleging that Mr. Sullivan engaged in sexually exploitative and predatory behavior.
The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) stated it is in contact with the football club to gather information about Mr. Sullivan’s suitability as a co-owner in light of these claims, which he denies.
An IFR spokesperson stated: “These are extremely serious allegations.”
“We are in contact with West Ham regarding this matter and will employ our statutory powers to seek urgent information from David Sullivan concerning his suitability under our owners, directors, and senior executives regime. We cannot comment further at this time.”
The allegations from the women date back to the 1980s and 1990s, during which he owned the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport tabloid newspapers.
“According to reports, the allegations against Mr. Sullivan involve him pressuring young or aspiring models in their late teens or early 20s. The Times noted it was a two-year investigation, involving its reporters interviewing dozens of former models and other industry sources.”
The Times noted it was a two-year investigation, involving its reporters interviewing dozens of former models and other industry sources.
Further reactions from Somalia regarding the denial of entry to referee Omar Artan by US authorities continue to pour in.
Artan, who was named CAF’s best referee in 2025, expressed gratitude to FIFA and CAF (Confederation of African Football) for their support in a statement, promising to maintain his refereeing standards as he focuses on the future.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s government expressed disappointment over their unsuccessful negotiations with the US and FIFA to facilitate Artan’s entry and lamented the situation. “His international accomplishments are a source of honor and pride for the Somali people,” stated the sports ministry.
On this day in World Cup history, one of the more enjoyable tournament openers took place, from Germany’s summer of love (just behind Argentina 0-1 Cameroon and France 0-1 Senegal in my personal ranking of best opening matches).
In related Football Family news, this just in from PA Media:
“Gianni Infantino is facing a criminal complaint from his former boss at UEFA, Michel Platini, just days before the World Cup commences. The former UEFA president, notable for his footballing prowess in the 1970s and 1980s, was a frontrunner to succeed Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 until an ethics investigation was launched concerning a payment he received from Blatter in 2011. Platini faced an eight-year ban from FIFA’s ethics committee in 2015—a penalty later reduced to four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Both Platini and Blatter encountered criminal proceedings regarding the payment but were acquitted by the Swiss federal court in 2022 and subsequently by the appeals court in 2025. Platini has now initiated criminal and civil actions in French courts concerning this matter, with Infantino among those named. The criminal complaint, confirmed by his lawyer Olivier Baratelli, alleges that Infantino and others conspired to exclude Platini from the FIFA presidency race.”
The former UEFA president, notable for his footballing prowess in the 1970s and 1980s, was a frontrunner to succeed Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016 until an ethics investigation was launched concerning a payment he received from Blatter in 2011.
Platini faced an eight-year ban from FIFA’s ethics committee in 2015—a penalty later reduced to four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Both Platini and Blatter encountered criminal proceedings regarding the payment but were acquitted by the Swiss federal court in 2022 and subsequently by the appeals court in 2025.
Platini has now initiated criminal and civil actions in French courts concerning this matter, with Infantino among those named.
The criminal complaint, confirmed by his lawyer Olivier Baratelli, alleges that Infantino and others conspired to exclude Platini from the FIFA presidency race.
FIFA has been approached for comment.
Have you tried our World Cup bracketology game yet? Every time I’ve played, it results in France winning, with my latest attempt seeing them defeat Japan—my dark horses for the tournament—in the final.
Staying on the theme of “football and politics don’t mix,” Iran’s football federation (FFIRI) has announced that their World Cup ticket allocation has been withdrawn, leaving fans who had already made travel arrangements unable to attend their team’s matches, according to reports. “This is despite the fact that many Iranian football supporters had already made necessary plans based on the official announcement to attend the matches,” the FFIRI stated in a release.
“With less than three days remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup… the United States has once again acted to hinder the presence of Iranian supporters at the venues hosting the national team’s three group stage matches,” the Iranian federation asserted, describing the action as “contrary to the principles governing international competitions and the notion of equality among participating nations.”
For more context on Iran’s tumultuous build-up, we have additional insights here:
The treatment of Artan is generating significant discourse early on. Here’s Krishna Moorthy’s take:
“Uncertainty surrounds Iran. Now, a top referee from Africa has been sent back from Miami. Bankruptcy has driven ticket prices up. To paraphrase a famous quote: It isn’t the schedule that has harmed the game, it’s the greed!”
“The English or Scottish FA or EFL/SPFL should invite the banned Somali referee Omar Artan to officiate a marquee match—perhaps the Community Shield. We need to demonstrate our tangible support.”
Moreover, it is essential to voice our justified outrage regarding the denial of entry by US authorities to Somali referee Omar Artan, who was turned away at Miami International Airport despite possessing a valid travel visa. FIFA, which typically exerts control in pressing matters like recyclable water bottles, appears to have sidestepped responsibility for one of its own referees. “FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications… consistent with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is permitted entry,” was the statement issued.
The Football Family continues to unite the world.
Now, let’s wrap up with morning reading suggestions for you:
Ben Fisher engages in a conversation with the ever-reliable Edin Dzeko, who continues to impress at 40, leading Bosnia and Herzegovina’s World Cup endeavor:
Ewan Murray in Charlotte reports on Scotland’s verbal dispute with Norway after they canceled their training match, citing injury concerns within Steve Clarke’s camp.
Djed Spence discusses jaw injuries, seizing his chance with England, and engaging in banter with Arsenal players:
Our latest experts’ network team guides feature Jordan and Portugal:
Lastly, here’s an excellent interview by Donald McRae with Kelly Cates, who will be reporting from the BBC’s Salford studio overnight, equipped with Tunnocks Caramel Wafers (other caramel wafers are available). She emphasizes the critical role of fans in the tournament, who haven’t been universally welcomed due to various issues:
“The full World Cup experience requires the presence of fans. Without fans being able to travel in the first place, you miss out. Not everyone will be able to do so, whether due to financial constraints, logistical challenges, or travel bans. That presents another issue, and I believe they are overlooking what makes a World Cup special. They hope to create an exciting atmosphere and bring the American showbiz element to make up for the absence of fans. However, it won’t replicate the feel of a traditional World Cup.”
Good morning (BST), everyone. The countdown continues with just two days to go, and the anticipation, tension, and excitement is building. We’ll cover as much as possible as we approach the kickoff. While Europe was asleep, there have been friendly games and updates, including the news that Neymar is “recovering well” from a calf injury that cast doubt on his availability for Brazil’s opener against Morocco.
Brazil’s all-time leading scorer underwent an MRI scan on Monday, which indicated he is “making good progress in his treatment,” raising hopes that he will play a part in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
“He will continue following the recovery schedule and fitness program as outlined by the Brazil team medical staff,” stated the Brazilian Football Confederation on Monday. He did not join his teammates for the Monday practice at Brazil’s training base, the new facility of MLS club New York Red Bulls, located about 30 miles west of Manhattan. Instead, he stayed indoors to work in the gym.
In last night’s friendly action, Michael Olise once again showcased why he’s among the most captivating footballers globally, scoring a hat-trick in France’s 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland in Lille. Didier Deschamps fielded his attacking stars—Desiré Doue and Kylian Mbappé also participated—in Les Bleus’ final home match before heading to their base in Boston.
“We’ll need a Michael Olise at that level,” Deschamps remarked. “Michael stands out due to the incredible season he’s had at Bayern and with us. He has accomplished remarkable feats, is brimming with confidence, and possesses the ability to work hard, which is impressive.” Northern Ireland’s consolation goal came from Patrick Kelly, marking his first international goal for the Barnsley midfielder.
Elsewhere, Spain impressed a Mexican audience with a 3-1 victory over Peru in Puebla. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring after just two minutes with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, followed by Pedri doubling the lead after half an hour, tapping into an open net from Ferran Torres’ cross. Spain added a third early in the second half when Yéremy Pino’s delivery caused an error from goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, before Jairo Velez pulled one back for Peru with a low finish.
