Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over the terms of his exit from t...

Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid have reached a verbal agreement over the terms of his exit from the club, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6333137/2025/05/05/carlo-ancelotti-real-madrid-exit-agreement/">The Athletic's Mario Cortegana and Adam Crafton</a>.The Italian coach previously <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279761" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279761">said</a> he would announce his future plans once the team concludes its La Liga campaign against Real Sociedad on May 25. However, an official announcement stating that Ancelotti is leaving the club a year before the expiration of his contract could arrive sooner, perhaps when Sunday's much-anticipated league duel with Barcelona is over, Cortegana and Crafton reported.That would leave Real Madrid on the lookout for a new head coach before their opening Club World Cup match against Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal on June 18.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bayer Leverkusen's Xabi Alonso appears to be a front-runner to succeed Ancelotti and he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279407" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279407">publicly acknowledged</a> last week that he was awaiting developments from the Spanish capital before he can determine where he'll work next season. He's viewed as a stronger appointment than internal candidates such as Raul Gonzalez - the former forward commonly known as Raul who oversees the reserve side Castilla - and Alvaro Arbeloa, the boss of the under-19 Juvenil A team.Ancelotti, meanwhile, is widely expected to take over the Brazil men's national team. He met with representatives from the Brazilian Football Confederation in London on April 28 but a move stalled because he was yet to reach a definitive agreement over his Real Madrid future, according to Cortegana and Crafton. However, an agreement for Ancelotti to coach current Real Madrid players <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/101248" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/101248">Vinicius Junior</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/160984" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/160984">Rodrygo</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/102257" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/102257">Eder Militao</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/204112" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/204112">Endrick</a> on the international stage is now anticipated before Brazil's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador (June 5) and Paraguay (June 10).

Carlo Ancelotti head coach of Real Madrid reacts during the La Liga match between Real Madrid CF and RC Celta de Vigo at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on May 4, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

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Report: Ancelotti, Real Madrid verbally agree on split after season

Harry Kane will hoist the first trophy of his career after Bayer Leverkusen's 2-2 draw at Freibur...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/3804" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/3804">Harry Kane</a> will hoist the first trophy of his career after Bayer Leverkusen's 2-2 draw at Freiburg on Sunday officially handed the Bundesliga title to Bayern Munich.Bayern are eight points clear of last season's champions with two matches left to play.The Bavarians almost clinched the title Saturday while Kane watched from the stands. The Englishman was suspended for the trip to RB Leipzig for yellow-card accumulation, but RB Leipzig legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/28383" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/28383">Yussuf Poulsen</a>'s last-gasp equalizer in a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3279870" href="https://thescore.com/news/3279870">wild 3-3 draw</a> delayed the celebrations.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Bayern's coronation can now take place in front of their home supporters when Borussia Monchengladbach visit the Allianz Arena on Saturday.Kane's failure to collect silverware threatened to overshadow his relentless goal-scoring exploits for club and country. It was a stick to beat him with, and his hecklers reached for it repeatedly when Bayern surrendered the Bundesliga crown to Leverkusen in his first season at the club in 2023-24, ending an unprecedented 11-year reign. Bayern also fell short in the DFB-Pokal, DFL-Supercup, and Champions League while Kane racked up 44 goals across all competitions and won the European Golden Shoe.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/cropped_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784013/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168862195.jpg?ts=1746379613 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> S. Mellar / FC Bayern / Getty</figcaption></figure>Bayern Munich's pursuit of Champions League glory this season ended with a quarterfinal defeat to Inter Milan. They lost to Leverkusen in the last 16 of the DFB-Pokal.The 31-year-old striker's prior spell with Tottenham Hotspur included one runners-up finish and two third-place finishes in the Premier League and losses in two League Cup finals and one Champions League final. With England, he's a defeated finalist in the past two European Championships, he suffered heartbreak in a World Cup semifinal against Croatia in 2018, and he nervously skied a penalty in a narrow 2022 World Cup quarterfinal loss to France.But shifting his trophy hunt to Germany paid off in his second season. Kane effectively fired the Bavarians to their 34th German crown with 24 goals and seven assists over his 29 appearances so far. The €100-million frontman's attacking contributions have been complemented by the league's meanest defense, standout individual campaigns from the likes of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/166065" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/166065">Jamal Musiala</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/159481" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/159481">Michael Olise</a>, and the experience of outgoing icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> and the many other serial Bundesliga winners in the Bayern Munich squad."There are many people who, throughout my career, only talk about the fact I haven't won a title yet. It would be nice to silence a few of them," Kane <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3274283" href="https://thescore.com/news/3274283">said</a> in late April.Former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany also won the first major trophy of his managerial career following Saturday's result in Saxony. Despite the many successes of his playing days, his appointment last summer was met with widespread surprise after he was criticized for an ambitious playing style that appeared to hasten Burnley's relegation from the Premier League.

MUNICH, GERMANY - APRIL 26: Harry Kane of FC Bayern Muenchen celebrates with his teammates their sides victory after the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and 1. FSV Mainz 05 at Allianz Arena on April 26, 2025 in Munich, Germany.

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Bayern win 34th Bundesliga title; Kane ends career-long trophy drought

Frank Lampard's Coventry City and Bristol City joined Sheffield United and Sunderland in the four...

Frank Lampard's Coventry City and Bristol City joined Sheffield United and Sunderland in the four-team playoffs for promotion to the Premier League following Saturday's Championship finale.Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough missed out on securing a playoff place after their 2-0 defeat at Coventry. Blackburn Rovers drew 1-1 at Sheffield United when a win would've sent them into the playoffs due to results elsewhere. Millwall's promotion hopes were extinguished by a 3-1 reverse at Burnley.Leeds United clinched the Championship title ahead of Burnley thanks to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/93055" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/93055">Manor Solomon</a>'s 91st-minute winner in a 2-1 victory at Plymouth Argyle. Plymouth were relegated to the third tier on the final day despite some promising performances under head coach Miron Muslic in the wake of Wayne Rooney's departure at the end of December.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Luton Town suffered back-to-back relegations after losing 5-3 at West Bromwich Albion. The Hatters beat Newcastle United and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in the Premier League only last season, but will now take on the likes of Stevenage and Burton Albion during the 2025-26 League One campaign.The descent of Cardiff City, who are under the caretaker charge of former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, was confirmed the previous weekend. The Bluebirds concluded the campaign with a 4-2 loss at Norwich City and finished bottom of the Championship standings, as Birmingham City and fellow Welsh club Wrexham enjoy promotion to the second tier from League One.The two-legged Championship playoff semifinals will run as follows:<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Fixture</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>May 8</td>
<td>Bristol City vs. Sheffield United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 9</td>
<td>Coventry City vs. Sunderland</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 12</td>
<td>Sheffield United vs. Bristol City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 13</td>
<td>Sunderland vs. Coventry City</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The Championship playoff final is set for May 24 at Wembley Stadium.

Coventry City head coach Frank Lampard celebrates after the Sky Bet Championship match at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Picture date: Saturday May 3, 2025.

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Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney celebrated in the stands as Wrexham secured a third successive p...

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney celebrated in the stands as Wrexham secured a third successive promotion Saturday.The Welsh outfit has now climbed from the fifth tier to the Championship, which is one rung below England's Premier League, since the actors became co-owners in 2021 and started to financially outmuscle most of Wrexham's league rivals during the club's rapid ascent. Their experiences navigating the world of soccer feature in the award-winning documentary series "Welcome to Wrexham."Wrexham's latest promotion was confirmed with a 3-0 home victory over Charlton Athletic courtesy of a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/94888" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/94888">Sam Smith</a> brace and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/85060" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/85060">Oliver Rathbone</a>'s opener from outside the box.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Documentary favorite <a href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/22923">Paul Mullin</a>, who had a cameo role in Reynolds' 2024 movie "Deadpool &amp; Wolverine," wasn't in the matchday squad and hasn't played a minute since January. <a href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/24063">Ollie Palmer</a>, another player whose fame skyrocketed after appearing in "Welcome to Wrexham," has also fallen out of favor in Phil Parkinson's side.Former Premier League regulars <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/1550" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/1550">Steven Fletcher</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/15213" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/15213">James McClean</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/53462" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/53462">Jay Rodriguez</a> are among the stars of Wrexham's latest success."It just seemed like an impossible dream," Reynolds reflected on the team reaching the Championship, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/wrexham-promotion-charlton-ryan-reynolds-58d5d3744c969460194f59593906e798">James Robson of The Associated Press</a>. "We said five years ago our goal was to make it to the Premier League. There were understandably a lot of laughs, but it feels like a thing that could make it to fruition right now."Wrexham won't be promoted as champions of League One. Birmingham City, who are co-owned by NFL legend Tom Brady, romped to the title after spending heavily to ensure an immediate return to England's second tier.Wrexham are guaranteed to meet some famous names in the Championship next season, including West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield Wednesday, 2008 FA Cup winners Portsmouth, and fellow Welsh side Swansea City. One team from Sheffield United, Sunderland, Bristol City, Coventry City, Millwall, Blackburn Rovers, and Middlesbrough will clamber out of the Championship via the four-team promotion playoffs.Burnley and Leeds United have already secured promotion to the Premier League.

WREXHAM, WALES - APRIL 26: Ryan Reynolds co-owner of Wrexham celebrates the opening goal ahead of the Sky Bet League One match between Wrexham AFC and Charlton Athletic FC at Racecourse Ground on April 26, 2025 in Wrexham, Wales.

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Hollywood-backed Wrexham reach 2nd tier after 3rd straight promotion

Burnley and Leeds United's return to the Premier League was confirmed Monday with two matches lef...

Burnley and Leeds United's return to the Premier League was confirmed Monday with two matches left of the Championship campaign.The Clarets rubber-stamped their promotion with a 2-1 victory over third-placed Sheffield United. Scott Parker's side has the meanest defense in professional English football - and by some distance - with just 15 goals conceded in 44 outings.Sheffield United's defeat also put Leeds, who have the strongest attack in England's top four divisions with 89 goals scored, out of reach in the automatic promotion places. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/140119" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/140119">Joel Piroe</a> scored four goals as Daniel Farke's Leeds smashed Stoke City 6-0 at Elland Road earlier Monday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The race for the two promotion places long appeared to be a three-way battle between Leeds (who are top on goal difference), Burnley, and Sheffield United. However, the latter slipped away from contention with four defeats in their last five matches. Before Monday's loss at Burnley, the Blades fell to Oxford United, Millwall, and Plymouth Argyle.Those surprise defeats have tested the previously strong relationship between Sheffield United supporters and Chris Wilder, who's in charge of his hometown club. "It is a joke, it's a disgrace," Wilder complained about the fans' treatment of his players following the 1-0 defeat at Oxford United, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cj45nd75202o">BBC Sport's Ian Woodcock</a>.Sheffield United fans seemed to ironically cheer at least one substitution during the Burnley defeat, as some disagreed with Wilder's team selection at Turf Moor.The moods at Burnley and Leeds, meanwhile, are wildly different.Captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/24201" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/24201">Josh Brownhill</a> scored both Burnley goals to earn the win over Sheffield United before jubilant locals invaded the pitch. "We've been written off so many times, people calling us boring," Brownhill told Sky Sports via <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c1wdj8p30q0t?post=asset%3Ac8d54598-18b7-4031-9d25-f6d2062242c5#post">BBC Sport</a>. "We've bored our way to the Premier League."Leeds were in the Championship for two seasons. Their promotion marks a much quicker recovery than when they were relegated in 2004 and subsequently spent 16 difficult years in England's second and third tiers."Not to put a dampener on it, we've still got another target we want to achieve. So we're going to enjoy tonight and then we're going to try and do the full thing," Leeds' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/84998" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/84998">Ethan Ampadu</a> told Sky Sports of the team's ambition to clinch the Championship title over the final two games, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c1wdj8p30q0t?post=asset%3A267cf812-2f1b-4e46-899f-319db76b0a32#post">BBC Sport</a>.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - APRIL 21: Josh Brownhill of Burnley celebrates scoring his team's second goal from the penalty-spot during the Sky Bet Championship match between Burnley FC and Sheffield United FC at Turf Moor on April 21, 2025 in Burnley, England.

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Ezri Konsa covered his face in bemusement as the camera panned across both teams' lineups before ...

Ezri Konsa covered his face in bemusement as the camera panned across both teams' lineups before Tuesday's Champions League contest.The pre-match gaffe of Villa Park playing the livelier Europa League anthem rather than the more grandiose and moving Champions League theme led to sharp-tongued claims that it reflected the club's inexperience in the competition. After all, the second leg of their quarterfinal against Paris Saint-Germain was Aston Villa's biggest continental fixture since winning the 1982 European Cup. This season marked their first appearance in the competition since 1983, well before it was rebranded as the Champions League.But Aston Villa's place at Europe's top table shouldn't be questioned after Tuesday's 5-4 aggregate defeat to PSG. Konsa <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3268186" href="https://thescore.com/news/3268186">expressed pride</a> following the final whistle, his earlier embarrassment long abandoned after the team and its fans created a spectacle that belonged at the pinnacle of club football.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The deafening crowd produced a tifo in the Holte End with two roaring lions on either side of the message, "This is Villa Park," to mark the occasion. Tens of thousands of scarves were held aloft, creating an artful dappling of white across the packed claret-and-blue house. Even when PSG scored twice within 27 minutes to carve out a four-goal aggregate advantage, the supporters weren't truly silenced."At that point, they didn't have anything to lose because they lost the first match and (halfway through) the first half. The atmosphere in the stadium was very nice," PSG head coach Luis Enrique told Amazon Prime, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c62zl031lmvt?post=asset%3Ac636aa3d-f0f8-4ac3-873c-3ec6ee756016#post">BBC Sport</a>.The grand stadium that perches over the Aston neighborhood of Birmingham, and the fans who fill it, adds a lot to the Champions League. That should've been clear after October's rousing victory over Bayern Munich in the league phase. It was made painstakingly obvious Tuesday.Unai Emery's team adds an awful lot, too. His players rallied with three goals, and it was fitting that the driving forces of the comeback attempt - one that, if completed, would've been among the most iconic in Champions League history - were John McGinn and Marcus Rashford. The scrappy captain with the generously proportioned backside, who did the hard yards with Villa in the Championship, and a forward with 80 European appearances - almost half of which are in the Champions League - who is a symbol of the club's soaring ambition.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/cropped_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w220xh124_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w320xh180_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w640xh360_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w768xh432_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/780789/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2210455625.jpg?ts=1744760656 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Harry Murphy - AVFC / Aston Villa FC / Getty</figcaption></figure>McGinn bounced around with the zip and bite of Max Verstappen ripping around in a bumper car, setting the tone for the rest of Emery's men. He also showcased an ability to compose himself when it counted. He filled a space in front of PSG's backline before smartly rolling the ball to Youri Tielemans for Villa's first goal. He then ratcheted up the stadium's volume even more when he carried the ball forward from his own end early in the second half. The PSG defenders eventually converged on him, but it was too late. He had the room to smash a long-range shot past Gianluigi Donnarumma via a slight deflection off defender Willian Pacho.Rashford, meanwhile, hints at what's to come for Villa. Like fellow January loan signing Marco Asensio, it would've been hard to imagine Rashford ever playing for Aston Villa only last summer. The Manchester United outcast had so far delivered brief flashes of excellence to help repay Emery for the chance to rebuild his career, but he came alive after McGinn's goal. He soon drifted in from the flank and forced Donnarumma into an excellent save. Then, from the resulting corner, he provided one of the standout assists of the Champions League campaign.His corner was repelled from the box, but Rashford had the awareness and will to rush back into an onside position while Matty Cash rose to head the initial clearance back toward danger. The ball plopped down at Rashford's feet on the right wing. The Mancunian nonchalantly evaded an overcommitted Fabian Ruiz, fled past Vitinha with a slick sway of his hips, then had the presence of mind to ignore the cluster of players crammed into the 6-yard box, and played the ball back to Konsa. The defender slammed in Villa's third goal with the precision of a seasoned striker.Were it not for Donnarumma, Villa would have come all the way back.The Italian has made his fair share of high-profile mistakes at PSG. But on this occasion, he was faultless for Villa's three goals and frustrated the hosts as six more shots were fired on target but couldn't find the net, including a late Asensio breakaway. One of those efforts might have beaten Donnarumma in the final seconds had it gotten through, but Pacho heroically blocked substitute Ian Maatsen's well-struck attempt.Villa were so close to sending the match to extra time and potentially fashioning another famous European result. It was a scenario few could have envisaged when they were four goals adrift on aggregate against the hottest team in Europe."We wanted to go out there and just prove a point," Konsa explained of the team's fight.After going toe-to-toe with many people's favorites to win the Champions League, consider that point proven.

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Mohamed Salah decided to stay at Liverpool despite receiving an offer to earn at least £500 milli...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> decided to stay at Liverpool despite receiving an offer to earn at least £500 million in the Saudi Pro League, sources told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c20xngdprpyo">BBC Sport's Sami Mokbel</a>.The 32-year-old attacker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3264089" href="https://thescore.com/news/3264089">signed</a> a two-year deal on Merseyside on Friday, ending months of persistent speculation about his future. Salah reportedly didn't need to take a pay cut to ensure he remained at Liverpool and will earn close to £400,000 a week on his latest terms.Still, that salary pales in comparison to the reported contract offer from an unnamed Saudi Arabian club. Salah's weekly wage of £400,000 amounts to around £20.8 million per year, meaning he would need to stay at Liverpool for at least 24 more years on that salary to match the riches he could've enjoyed in the Saudi Pro League.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Jeddah-based Al-Ittihad <a href="https://www.thescore.com/epl/news/2708557">reportedly</a> made a verbal approach for Salah in the summer of 2023.Salah inked fresh terms to stay at Liverpool because he wants to chase more silverware in Europe, try to win a Ballon d'Or, and ensure he continues to test himself against the best so he can perform well for Egypt, according to Mokbel. The Pharaohs are set to compete at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (which kicks off in December and concludes in January 2026) and are on the cusp of securing their place at the 2026 World Cup in North America.Salah is likely to have the option to move to Saudi Arabia in the future, Mokbel reports. People close to the forward believe he has at least another three years playing at the elite level - a year beyond when his new Liverpool contract expires - and there's an unwavering desire from the high-spending Saudi Pro League to bring the Arabic icon to play in the country.Saudi Arabia has attracted many big names in recent years, including Al-Nassr's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/1310" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/1310">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>. Salah's former Liverpool teammates <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49565" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49565">Fabinho</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/13233" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/13233">Roberto Firmino</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/20486" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/20486">Sadio Mane</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/10448" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/10448">Georginio Wijnaldum</a> also play in the oil-rich country.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - APRIL 11: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Mohamed Salah of Liverpool signs a new contract extension at Anfield on April 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Report: Salah refused Saudi deal worth at least £500M to stay at Liverpool

Lionel Messi's talks over a new Inter Miami contract are at an advanced stage and the iconic atta...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a>'s talks over a new Inter Miami contract are at an advanced stage and the iconic attacker is expected to sign fresh terms through 2026 soon, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6269451/2025/04/11/lionel-messi-inter-miami-contract-update/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.The artful Argentine's current deal was due to expire at the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer campaign.Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023. He's scored 42 goals and provided 21 primary assists in 48 appearances across all competitions for the club.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The South Florida franchise, which won the 2023 Leagues Cup and 2024 MLS Supporters' Shield with Messi, is set to move into a new venue named Miami Freedom Park next year."The stars are aligning for something great, for a beautiful future for the club and for Lionel. It's solely his decision," Miami managing owner Jorge Mas told <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIPjA0fyZGA/?igsh=eWV3aDgxMnhvcWdk">FDP Radio Miami</a> earlier this week, with translation from The Athletic."I expect that within 60-90 days we'll have to determine all of this. My hope has always been - and everything we're doing - is to see Messi play at our new stadium in 2026. Hopefully, that happens."The influence of Messi, who turns 38 in June, doesn't appear to be waning at Inter Miami.He's raced to three goals and two primary assists in four appearances in the 2025 MLS campaign despite head coach Javier Mascherano's careful efforts to manage Messi's minutes. The former Barcelona forward scored twice Wednesday to help his side turn a two-goal aggregate deficit in its CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal against Los Angeles FC into a 3-2 victory. He played the penultimate pass for Inter Miami's other goal.Inter Miami take on the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Champions Cup semifinals later in April.Messi also continues to be a key figure for Argentina after winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa Americas (2021 and 2024) with his country. He was absent from Argentina's World Cup qualifying wins over Uruguay and Brazil in March due to a groin injury but weighed in six goals and five assists over 11 appearances in 2024. He holds the men's team's records for caps (191) and goals (112).He's set to be a star attraction at the Club World Cup this summer. Before the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247413" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247413">recent removal</a> of Liga MX's Club Leon due to an ownership issue, Inter Miami were the last outfit invited thanks to their Supporters' Shield success. They are in a group with Portugal's FC Porto, Brazil's Palmeiras, and Egypt's Al Ahly.Miami will now be joined at the tournament by Club Leon's replacement, which could the winner of a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3254929" href="https://thescore.com/news/3254929">mooted playoff game</a> between Mexican giants Club America and MLS side LAFC.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - APRIL 09: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates a goal during the CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarter-final football match between Los Angeles FC and Inter Miami CF on Thursday April 9, 2025 at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

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Report: Messi set to sign Inter Miami contract through 2026

Arsenal rocked Real Madrid with a sublime three-punch combo Tuesday to take a commanding 3-0 lead...

Arsenal rocked Real Madrid with a sublime three-punch combo Tuesday to take a commanding 3-0 lead into next week's Champions League quarterfinal second leg.<a href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/90903">Declan Rice</a> scored two magnificent free-kicks - incredibly, the first direct free-kicks he's scored in his professional career - and makeshift forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/58163" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/58163">Mikel Merino</a> netted an impressive one-touch shot from the edge of the area for a memorable night in north London.And despite Arsenal's remarkable three-goal outburst in the second half, <a href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/9963">Thibaut Courtois</a> may have been Real Madrid's best player. He made five excellent saves over the opening leg and was only breached by finishes of the highest quality. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/4054" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/4054">David Alaba</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/161381" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/161381">Jude Bellingham</a> also prevented two Arsenal goals with goal-line clearances.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Rice bent his first free-kick around Real Madrid's wall in superb style, powering in a curling effort from over 25 yards in the 58th minute.Then, incredibly, Rice did it again - and it was arguably better than his first. The angle seemed more appealing for left-footed playmaker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/34831" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/34831">Martin Odegaard</a>, who was also stood over the free-kick, but Rice strode toward the ball again and unleashed a perfect, swerving drive into the top corner.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/cropped_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w220xh124_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w320xh180_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w640xh360_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w768xh432_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/779557/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2209241260.jpg?ts=1744146786 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Richard Pelham - UEFA / UEFA / Getty</figcaption></figure>"Declan's been very determined because we have said in the last few months that we have not scored a direct free-kick in three-and-half years," Mikel Arteta said after the match, according to <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/it-s-beautiful-arteta-hails-rice-free-kick-magic-as-arsenal-stun-real-01db6823">Agence France-Presse</a>."If there's a player who can do it, how clean he strikes it, it's Declan. But you have to execute it at the highest level. And against one of the best keepers in the world as well. It's amazing."Rice is now the first player to score two direct free-kicks in a Champions League knockout stage match.Arsenal's remarkable evening became scarcely believable just five minutes later. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/192369" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/192369">Myles Lewis-Skelly</a> slid a pass across the edge of Real Madrid's 18-yard box and Merino, the backup midfielder moonlighting as a center-forward amid a rash of Arsenal injuries, confidently stabbed a first-time shot into the bottom corner."We were talking in the dressing room about keeping the pace and tempo, obviously with the help of the crowd on our side. The second half was amazing, we played with full gas from the side," Merino told Amazon Prime, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3261969" href="https://thescore.com/news/3261969">Agence France-Presse</a>."When this side plays like that, the crowd go with us."Real Madrid, the winners of a record 15 Champions League crowns, had little response to Arsenal's onslaught. Rather than come roaring back in true Real Madrid style, they left with a whimper as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/140079" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/140079">Eduardo Camavinga</a> was shown a second yellow card in the closing stages for kicking the ball away."We were not good," Real Madrid's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/49943" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/49943">Lucas Vazquez</a> admitted to Movistar post-match, according to Agence France-Presse. "I think Arsenal had a great game, they made chances, they knew how to press us and we couldn't play our game."With such a one-sided win over Champions League royalty, some Arsenal fans will now believe their team can win Europe's top prize for the first time in its history.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 08: Mikel Merino of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammate Declan Rice during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Emirates Stadium on April 08, 2025 in London, England.

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Rice's stunning free-kick brace helps Arsenal smash Real Madrid

Leicester City became the first club since the 1888 formation of England's Football League to los...

Leicester City became the first club since the 1888 formation of England's Football League to lose eight consecutive home matches without scoring Monday, setting the new record with a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United.Ruud van Nistelrooy's Foxes are on the brink of relegation as they're 15 points adrift of safety with seven Premier League matches remaining. Somewhat surprisingly, Leicester are only the second-worst team in England's top flight because they have seven more points than Southampton, who suffered the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3259823" href="https://thescore.com/news/3259823">earliest relegation in Premier League history</a> Sunday.Leicester, Southampton, and Ipswich Town were promoted from the Championship last season. Ipswich are also close to an immediate return to the second tier due to the 12-point gap between them and 17th-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Trouble in the Foxes' den<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Opposition</th>
<th>Result</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 22</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 29</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 15</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 18</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Feb. 15</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>0-2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Feb. 21</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>0-4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>March 16</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 7</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>0-3</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The aggregate score of Leicester's last eight league matches at home is 0-21.Leicester's 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur in January marks the only time they scored over their last 11 Premier League home or away matches.In Leicester's latest setback, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49695" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49695">Jacob Murphy</a>'s brace and ex-Leicester player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90749" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90749">Harvey Barnes</a>' goal put the game out of the hosts' reach before halftime. The loudest cheer from the home support came when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/214418" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/214418">Jeremy Monga</a> was brought on as a substitute for his debut. At 15 years and 271 days old, he's the second-youngest player in Premier League history after Arsenal's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/190386" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/190386">Ethan Nwaneri</a> (15 years and 181 days).

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 07: Ruud van Nistelrooy, Manager of Leicester City, looks dejected as he walks the edge of the technical area during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Newcastle United FC at The King Power Stadium on April 07, 2025 in Leicester, England.

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Van Nistelrooy's Leicester break miserable record amid run of home defeats

Pep Guardiola believes Matheus Nunes' future is at right-back for Manchester City after deciding ...

Pep Guardiola believes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166328" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166328">Matheus Nunes</a>' future is at right-back for Manchester City after deciding the 26-year-old lacks the intelligence and composure required to play midfield.Nunes' reputation blossomed while starring in Wolverhampton Wanderers' midfield during the 2022-23 campaign. Manchester City bought Nunes for around £53 million a few matches into the following season. However, the unconvincing displays from the Brazil-born Portuguese international and other players, a rash of injuries, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/4042" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/4042">Kyle Walker</a>'s January departure forced City manager Guardiola to rethink the player's role."(Nunes) can become a good right-back for his physicality," Guardiola said after Sunday's match at Manchester United, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/44571172/man-city-matheus-nunes-not-clever-enough-play-midfield-pep-guardiola">ESPN's Mark Ogden</a>. "I think he's not a player to play in midfield because he's not clever enough, in the composure, but he has incredible skills, and he's learning a lot."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Nunes has played at right-back for each of his 11 starts since mid-January, including the goalless Manchester derby at Old Trafford."The big mistake of full-backs is when you have the cross to the far post where you are, they are always sleeping," Guardiola said. "But he defended really well two or three crosses, like when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/23312" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/23312">Bruno (Fernandes)</a> put it to the far post for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/200230" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/200230">(Patrick) Dorgu</a>."He has the attention and the physicality to do it, so he can play in that position and help us a lot."Guardiola admitted he was surprised by Nunes' performance as a full-back, given there was little indication earlier in the campaign that would be his role."When you start the season, if you said, 'Matheus will play right-back,' you would ask what I'm talking about," Guardiola added. "But it is what it is."City's defense against Manchester United featured Nunes, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162375" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162375">Josko Gvardiol</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/68136" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/68136">Ruben Dias</a> as the center-backs and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192475" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192475">Nico O'Reilly</a> - a versatile yet predominantly attack-minded midfielder - acting as the other full-back. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/189326" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/189326">Rico Lewis</a>, who often operates as an inverted right-back, replaced O'Reilly at left-back in the 74th minute."The back-four was excellent. Ruben was incredible. So we build from that," Guardiola said.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - APRIL 06: Matheus Nunes of Manchester City takes a throw in during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Manchester City FC at Old Trafford on April 06, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Guardiola: Nunes 'not clever enough' to play midfield

Southampton were relegated to the Championship on Sunday with seven matches still left to play in...

Southampton were relegated to the Championship on Sunday with seven matches still left to play in the Premier League season.The Saints' descent, which was confirmed by Sunday's 3-1 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur, is the earliest in Premier League history. The previous record was jointly held by Ipswich Town (1994-95) and Derby County (2007-08), who dropped from the top flight with six matches to spare.Another unwanted Derby record looms for Southampton. The Rams' points tally of 11 in the 2007-08 campaign is the lowest ever recorded in the Premier League, and Southampton are one point shy of that miserable total.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Will Southampton avoid unwanted record?<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Fixture</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>April 12</td>
<td>vs. Aston Villa</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 19</td>
<td>@ West Ham United</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 26</td>
<td>vs. Fulham</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 3</td>
<td>@ Leicester City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>vs. Manchester City</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>@ Everton</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 25</td>
<td>vs. Arsenal</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>"We have to avoid that record, do our best. It cannot happen," Southampton manager Ivan Juric said after the Spurs defeat, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cg5qy16e18po">BBC Sport</a>.Saints goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/68746" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/68746">Aaron Ramsdale</a> has now been relegated on three occasions. He suffered the same fate with Bournemouth (2019-20) and Sheffield United (2020-21) before his three-season spell with Arsenal."We want to get as many points as we can until the end of the season," Ramsdale said. "No one wants that record, and we will do what we can. But we will do what we can to get more points on the board."Southampton were promoted to the Premier League 315 days ago. Manager Russell Martin was credited for his ambitious style of play in the Championship, but the team's approach proved to be a weakness in the tier above. Southampton repeatedly made costly errors as they tried to bypass the press and instigate attacks from defense. Mistakes drained confidence, and their dwindling confidence led to more mistakes.Martin was sacked in December after one win in 16 Premier League games and was replaced by Juric. There's only been one league victory since.Southampton offered little resistance and barely any attacking threat in north London. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/161384" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/161384">Brennan Johnson</a> scored two first-half goals before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/190212" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/190212">Mateus Fernandes</a>' 90th-minute strike and Spurs loanee <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/184462" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/184462">Mathys Tel</a>'s successful penalty at the death belatedly stirred a sleepy second period.

Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale (left) and team-mates react after Tottenham Hotspur's Brennan Johnson (not pictured) scores their side's first goal of the game during the Premier League match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday April 6, 2025.

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Southampton suffer earliest relegation in Premier League history

Alphonso Davies' agent expressed "respect" for Jesse Marsch on Thursday after initially claiming ...

Alphonso Davies' agent expressed "respect" for Jesse Marsch on Thursday after initially claiming the Canada men's team head coach "pressured" his client to start a match despite concerns over his fitness."Canada Soccer needs to do a better job managing these players," agent Nedal Huoseh <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3250860" href="https://thescore.com/news/3250860">surmised</a> Wednesday after Davies was diagnosed with a torn ACL in his right knee. The left-back lasted just 12 minutes of Sunday's CONCACAF Nations League third-place game against the United States before being forced off with the issue.Huoseh has since walked back his comments after discussions with the men's team boss.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Over the past 24 hours, I spoke with Jesse Marsch on several occasions," Huoseh <a href="https://x.com/NedalHuoseh/status/1905368470545727998">wrote on X</a>. "I have a lot of respect for him as a coach. We had positive and productive discussions and laid down the groundwork to ensure we are all aligned and working together to continue to protect the best interests of players."Moving forward, everyone involved is focused on prioritizing Phonzie's recovery."Bayern Munich estimated a layoff of "several months" for Davies, ruling him out for the remainder of the European club season. He's also unlikely to appear at this summer's Club World Cup in the United States. The 24-year-old wasn't expected to represent Canada at the CONCACAF Gold Cup due to his commitments in the Club World Cup.As the current captain and a standout player of the Canadian men's team, Davies is expected to assume an important role for his country as it co-hosts the World Cup in 2026.Canada recovered from Davies' enforced substitution to beat the United States 2-1 in Sunday's third-place match, thanks to goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/187409" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/187409">Tani Oluwaseyi</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/159817">Jonathan David</a>.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 20: Alphonso Davies #19 of Canada stands for his national anthem before to the Concacaf Nations League Semifinal match between Canada and Mexico at SoFi Stadium on March 20, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Davies' agent softens stance after post-injury rant against Canada Soccer

Seven out of a possible 48 nations have booked their tickets to the 2026 World Cup, with Canada, ...

Seven out of a possible 48 nations have booked their tickets to the 2026 World Cup, with Canada, Mexico, and the United States automatically included as co-hosts. By the end of 2025, we'll know 42 of the 48 participants. The FIFA qualifying cycle ends in March 2026, when the last remaining spots are decided. Below, we're keeping track of every team that's confirmed its place in the supersized tournament so far.<h3>What's the breakdown?</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Confederation</th>
<th>Spots (46)*</th>
<th>Qualified</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AFC</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CAF</td>
<td>9</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CONCACAF</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CONMEBOL</td>
<td>6</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OFC</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA</td>
<td>16 (4 via UEFA playoffs)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>*The final two World Cup berths will be determined by inter-confederation playoffs in March 2026. Six teams will take part - two from CONCACAF and one each from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and South America. The two with the best FIFA ranking will go directly to one of two finals, while the other four will be drawn to play semifinal matches. New Caledonia has already secured the playoff spot for Oceania (OFC). Europe, the largest confederation, has its own playoff process that determines UEFA's final four tournament representatives.<h3>Who's qualified?</h3><h3>Argentina 🇦🇷</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: CONMEBOL</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: March 25, 2025</li>
</ul>The reigning World Cup champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3250567" href="https://thescore.com/news/3250567">already qualified</a> for the 2026 edition before taking the pitch in Buenos Aires, sealing a place by virtue of Bolivia's goalless draw with Uruguay earlier in the day. There was less at stake in Argentina's much-anticipated qualification tilt with Brazil. However, La Albiceleste took care of business nonetheless, crushing their hated rivals 4-1 to further assert their dominance in South American qualifying. Lionel Scaloni's side will be a popular pick to conquer the globe again despite the fact that talismanic captain Lionel Messi turns 39 before the tournament's group stage is over.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Iran 🇮🇷</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: AFC</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: March 25, 2025</li>
</ul>Iran confirmed its fourth consecutive World Cup appearance, and seventh in the history of its men's team program, after racing to 20 points from its first eight matches in the third round of Asian qualifiers. Carlos Queiroz isn't in charge of this latest group, but the rest of the squad will be familiar to many onlookers: Eight of the 11 starters from the World Cup-clinching <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3250486" href="https://thescore.com/news/3250486">draw</a> with Uzbekistan are aged 30 or over, including mainstays Mehdi Taremi, Sardar Azmoun, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, and Saman Ghoddos.<h3>New Zealand 🇳🇿</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: OFC</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: March 24, 2025</li>
</ul>To the surprise of nobody, New Zealand clinched Oceania's single automatic World Cup berth after winning each of its five qualification matches. The All Whites brushed aside Tahiti, Vanuatu, and Samoa before thumping Fiji 7-0 in the third round's semifinals, then officially punching their ticket to North America with a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3249383" href="https://thescore.com/news/3249383">3-0 win</a> over New Caledonia. Chris Wood's nine goals during the qualification process are more than twice the total of the second top scorer, fellow Kiwi attacker Elijah Just.<h3>Japan 🇯🇵</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/cropped_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/777242/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206028408.jpg?ts=1742951892 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kenta Harada / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>
Confederation: AFC</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: March 20, 2025</li>
</ul>Japan became the first team to qualify on the pitch for the 2026 World Cup - and did so with three matches to spare - when Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo's sumptuous finishes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3246540" href="https://thescore.com/news/3246540">sunk</a> Bahrain in Saitama. Japan is an early candidate for the World Cup's "dark horse" tag as the Samurai Blue's exciting generation is highlighted by goal-scorers Kamada and Kubo, and the likes of England-based players Kaoru Mitoma, Wataru Endo, and Ao Tanaka.<h3>Mexico 🇲🇽</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: CONCACAF</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: Feb. 14, 2023 (co-host)</li>
</ul>Mexico owes a debt of gratitude to Marco Silva. Raul Jimenez seemed to struggle with confidence after he fractured his skull in November 2020, but Silva has the striker playing with belief and bravery once more at Fulham. Mexico is reaping the rewards. The veteran scored four times as El Tri beat Canada and Panama to win the Nations League, and he could potentially form a potent striker partnership with AC Milan marksman Santiago Gimenez next year.<h3>Canada 🇨🇦</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: CONCACAF</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: Feb. 14, 2023 (co-host)</li>
</ul>American coach Jesse Marsch has been saying the right things to boost his popularity in Canada, but his charm offensive will lose its luster if his team can't score in big games. Beating the United States in the Nations League third-place game helped Marsch's cause, but Canada's 2024 Copa America run certainly wasn't free-scoring, and it should've posed more of a threat against Mexico in the Nations League semifinals. Finding the right strike partner to complement top scorer Jonathan David will be key for Marsch in the buildup to the World Cup.<h3>United States 🇺🇸</h3><ul>
<li>
Confederation: CONCACAF</li>
<li>
Date of qualification: Feb. 14, 2023 (co-host)</li>
</ul>Mauricio Pochettino is under pressure after the United States failed to deliver Nations League glory following a surprise semifinal defeat to Panama. The USMNT's misery was compounded when it fell to Canada in the third-place game. Pochettino needs to mastermind better performances in June's friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland, but several issues - including underperforming stars and some starters not playing enough for their clubs - could lead to the USMNT disappointing fans on home soil in 2026.<h3>Key dates ahead</h3>June 2-10: World Cup qualifying, UEFA Nations League finals Sept. 1-9: World Cup qualifying Oct. 6-14: World Cup qualifying Nov. 10-18: World Cup qualifying December 2025: World Cup draw (exact date TBD) March 23-31, 2026: Final World Cup qualifying matches June 1-9, 2026: Pre-tournament friendly matches June 11, 2026: World Cup opening match

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2026 World Cup tracker: Who's qualified, how many spots are left?

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch admits he was deliberately spiky in the technical area during Sund...

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch admits he was deliberately spiky in the technical area during Sunday's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3249123" href="https://thescore.com/news/3249123">2-1 win</a> over the United States in the Nations League third-place game.With memories of his team being <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247266" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247266">denied a first-half penalty</a> against Mexico on Thursday still raw, Marsch twice protested to the officials for what he believed were fouls on Canada striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/159817">Jonathan David</a> in the box. He was sent off in the 54th minute but says he has no regrets over his conduct."If I had to do it again, I would," Marsch told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6226778/2025/03/24/canadas-marsch-explains-his-nations-league-red-card-id-do-it-again/">The Athletic's Joshua Kloke</a> while reiterating that he and his team were "pissed off" after the apparent missed call in the defeat to Mexico.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Marsch added: "It's not like I went into the game thinking, 'OK, I'm going to get thrown out.' But I was definitely looking for opportunities to make a point, right?"Marsch said he wished he appealed the first incident involving David more than the second. He was dismissed as he reacted to the second incident, one that David revealed post-match involved a slip rather than a foul.The Canada boss was keen for video review to be used during penalty calls after the pitchside monitor wasn't consulted when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/99764" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/99764">Derek Cornelius</a> was kicked by Mexico's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/85188" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/85188">Edson Alvarez</a> as they fought for the ball in Thursday's Nations League semifinal. Marsch also got the impression Sunday that the officials were now prepared to use VAR more readily."The fourth official said to me when I was starting to escalate, 'No, we all reviewed what happened to you against Mexico and we're aware of it and we're going to look at this carefully.' And so I was like, 'OK, they're going to at least go to VAR,' and then they don't go to VAR," Marsch said."And then honestly, I was cursing myself. I should have freaking run over there, I should have forced a reaction."Marsch, who took over the men's team last May, believes Canada has been on the end of many harsh decisions in CONCACAF tournaments over the years and wants to see a change in future matches. Canada takes on Ukraine and Ivory Coast in June friendlies before competing at CONCACAF's Gold Cup."You know what even makes me even more frustrated and happy that I did it? Did you see Panama's penalty (during <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3249256" href="https://thescore.com/news/3249256">the final</a> against Mexico)? Ours against Mexico is worse for me, right? I think it was necessary," Marsch reasoned."(Canada) have been through this, more than I have. So again, I'm learning what it is to be the Canadian national team coach, and certainly in this CONCACAF setting, they feel like they're getting the short end of the stick again. I get it."

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 23: Jesse Marsch head coach of Canada leaves the pitch after receiving a red card during the CONCACAF Nations League third place match between United States and Canada at SoFi Stadium on March 23, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Canada boss Marsch has no regrets over red card: I'd 'do it again'

The Canadian men's national team's hopes of winning its first trophy in 25 years were dashed by T...

The Canadian men's national team's hopes of winning its first trophy in 25 years were dashed by Thursday's 2-0 Nations League <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247051" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247051">defeat</a> to Mexico, and an incident in just the ninth minute could rankle head coach Jesse Marsch's side for some time.Mexico held an early 1-0 lead in the semifinal following <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/16216" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/16216">Raul Jimenez</a>'s goal in the first minute. Shortly afterward, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/99764" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/99764">Derek Cornelius</a> tried to win possession in the area and got a touch on the ball before midfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/85188" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/85188">Edson Alvarez</a> kicked the Canadian's left foot. Referee Said Martinez gave Mexico a free-kick as Canada players converged on him to appeal for a penalty. He wasn't instructed to review his decision on the pitchside monitor."We have a clear, clear, clear penalty, I don't know how it's not given in terms of - we have VAR. He doesn't even look at it," Cornelius told <a href="https://x.com/onesoccer/status/1903060869581271290">OneSoccer's Kristian Jack</a> postgame.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Cornelius added, "I just tried to get to the ball first to keep the attack alive and then, obviously, I got kicked at the end of it."The defender couldn't fathom any excuses to not award Canada what he felt was "100%" a spot-kick."This is high-level games with high-level players. It deserves high-level refereeing," the defender added, according to <a href="https://x.com/TSNScianitti/status/1902956511715889207">TSN's Matthew Scianitti</a>.Marsch <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247051" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247051">described</a> the incident as "the definition of a penalty." Midfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/134054" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/134054">Stephen Eustaquio</a> was similarly adamant that the referee missed a blatant call in Inglewood, California, but said the Honduran official was confident that a Mexican free-kick was the correct decision."We tried to talk to the ref and pressure the ref to see VAR, but he was certain from the beginning that it wasn't a penalty," Eustaquio <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/video/thats-a-penalty-everywhere-in-the-world-eustaquio-laments-missed~3100120">said</a>."I looked at the monitor, and I think that's a penalty everywhere in the world."Instead of chasing its first title since the Gold Cup in 2000, Canada now falls into a third-place game against the United States on Sunday. The reigning champion U.S. was surprisingly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3247018" href="https://thescore.com/news/3247018">beaten</a> in its semifinal earlier Thursday evening after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/163642" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/163642">Cecilio Waterman</a>'s dramatic 94th-minute winner for Panama.Panama was the lowest-ranked team (36th) in the final four of the Nations League but will now contest the final against Mexico shortly after Sunday's meeting between Canada and the United States.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 20: Derek Cornelius #13 of Canada shoots against Edson Álvarez #4 of Mexico during the first half of a CONCACAF Nations League semifinal match at SoFi Stadium on March 20, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Canada angry after no PK vs. Mexico: Game 'deserves high-level refereeing'

Newcastle United captured the first League Cup in their history Sunday following a 2-1 win over r...

Newcastle United captured the first League Cup in their history Sunday following a 2-1 win over runaway Premier League leaders Liverpool.Boyhood Newcastle fan <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/14564" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/14564">Dan Burn</a> gave his team the lead near the end of the first half before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/91018" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/91018">Alexander Isak</a> doubled its advantage in the 52nd minute. Liverpool substitute <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/68002" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/68002">Federico Chiesa</a> scored in added time, but Eddie Howe's side was rarely under serious pressure at Wembley.Newcastle's committed display earned them their first piece of silverware since the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup and their first major domestic trophy since the 1955 FA Cup final.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Liverpool, meanwhile, are strolling toward their 20th English top-flight title. But some onlookers were tipping Arne Slot's men for an unprecedented quadruple at the start of February before their FA Cup elimination to Plymouth Argyle, Tuesday's Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, and now their surprise League Cup defeat to Newcastle.Burn's aerial dominance over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/160602" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/160602">Alexis Mac Allister</a> during corner kicks eventually proved costly for Liverpool when the towering defender excellently headed into the bottom corner. Newcastle took a deserved one-goal lead into the break."We couldn't believe Dan Burn scored - he didn't train like that! He was a colossus for us," Howe said post-match, per <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c62zl58dg8qt?post=asset%3A1d4ff973-63ff-42d9-a8b8-9950f7a3e229#post">BBC Sport</a>.Isak was denied a goal when a VAR review confirmed he strayed offside by inches before poking the ball into the net following another corner. However, he doubled Newcastle's advantage under two minutes later. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/49695" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/49695">Jacob Murphy</a> nodded <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/182238" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/182238">Tino Livramento</a>'s delivery across goal, and Isak hit a slick first-time finish past <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/84917" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/84917">Caoimhin Kelleher</a>.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/cropped_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/775524/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204902571.jpg?ts=1742148897 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Nigel French/Allstar / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/99998" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/99998">Curtis Jones</a>' smash from around 15 yards forced an incredible save from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/16508" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/16508">Nick Pope</a> in the 59th minute, but Liverpool - 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table and 23 points better off than sixth-placed Newcastle - played well below their best. Newcastle outdid the strong favorites with a battling team display and almost made it 3-0 when Kelleher pushed away Isak's close-range volley.Liverpool scored in the 94th minute, with Chiesa slipping the ball into the corner of the net after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/103076" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/103076">Harvey Elliott</a>'s pass caught out a briefly disorganized Newcastle backline. The goal was initially disallowed before Chiesa was declared onside following video review.But the Magpies, who seemed to feed off the energy of the traveling Toon Army, saw out the final minutes with relative ease. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/54907" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/54907">Joelinton</a> best demonstrated how keen he and his teammates were for the fight by celebrating tackles and urging for even more noise from the black-and-white half of Wembley.Newcastle beat Nottingham Forest, AFC Wimbledon, Chelsea, Brentford, Arsenal, and Liverpool on their victorious League Cup run."When you have been without a trophy for so long, it can be in the back of your head. Hopefully, it is brighter days ahead," Isak told Sky Sports, according to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2025/mar/16/liverpool-v-newcastle-carabao-cup-final-updates-live">The Guardian's John Brewin</a>.

Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier lift the Carabao Cup trophy with team-mates following victory in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday March 16, 2025.

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Newcastle beat Liverpool in League Cup final for 1st trophy in 56 years

Manchester City's Erling Haaland became the first player to reach 100 Premier League goal involve...

Manchester City's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> became the first player to reach 100 Premier League goal involvements in fewer than 100 matches after opening the scoring with a penalty in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.It was the striker's 84th goal in his 94th appearance in England's top flight. He's also provided 16 assists since joining City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022.Haaland reached three figures in goal involvements in six fewer matches than the previous record holder, Alan Shearer. Liverpool's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> and Manchester United icon Eric Cantona both required 116 Premier League games to log their 100th goal involvement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sergio Aguero reached 100 goal involvements (77 goals, 23 assists) in his 118th Premier League outing for Manchester City.Haaland, 24, is just one strike shy of 85 Premier League goals, which would equal Eden Hazard, Louis Saha, and Fernando Torres' individual tallies in the competition. He's currently level with former Manchester City standout Carlos Tevez on 84 goals.The Norwegian holds the record for the most prolific season in Premier League history after cramming 36 goals into 35 appearances during his first season at Manchester City.

Manchester City's Norwegian striker #09 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring his team first goal during the English Premier League football match between Manchester City and Brighton and Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, north west England, on March 15, 2025.

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Haaland races to 100 Premier League goal involvements in record time

During Women's History Month in March, theScore is publishing stories that illustrate how women i...

During Women's History Month in March, theScore is publishing stories that illustrate how women in sports lead, inspire change, and navigate their careers.<figure class="article-segment--embed">Frishta Qasemi didn't know Farkhunda Muhtaj, but she put her life in her hands.</figure>"I was scared for my life. If the Taliban knows that I'm a soccer player, they're going to kill me, of course. I think that Farkhunda was the only choice," said Qasemi, who was just 15 when the democratically elected Islamic Republic of Afghanistan fell in August 2021. "I had to trust her."Muhtaj - born to Afghan refugees in Pakistan before the family moved to Canada when she was 2 - proudly captained the Afghanistan women's national team before the Taliban took over. In April, she'll be among the trailblazers who kick off the inaugural season of Canada's first professional women's soccer league, the Northern Super League (NSL), when she suits up for Calgary Wild FC. Muhtaj was the club's first official signing last year.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Her work to help Afghan youth team members flee their homeland means her NSL journey will be followed by many much further afield than Calgary. The Afghanistan Football Federation asked Muhtaj, along with other Afghan players based around the globe, to coordinate the evacuation missions from Kabul four years ago. The dedication and dependability of Muhtaj, who was then a 23-year-old playing semi-professionally in Ontario, was undeniable, but her relative inexperience in such matters indicated how desperate the situation had become."I had no clue what to do, if I'm being honest," she told theScore."There's no commercial flights leaving the country, all borders are closed, there's Taliban checkpoints throughout the country, and the political landscape kept shifting as well," she explained of the hurdles that threatened to derail the evacuation efforts.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/cropped_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/w220xh124_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/w320xh180_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/w640xh360_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/w768xh432_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772469/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1701278480.jpg?ts=1740601339 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Muhtaj playing for Dutch side Fortuna Sittard in 2023 Soccrates Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>It took time for Muhtaj to find the support she needed. Certain organizations and humanitarian lawyers she felt would be well connected didn't provide the response she hoped for. It wasn't until she formed a team featuring government officials from the United States that her drive gathered momentum.As the leader of her national team, Muhtaj would be a hero to thousands, or more likely millions, of girls in most parts of the globe. Afghanistan was different. "Many of them didn't even know who the hell I was," she said, detailing the lack of exposure given to the team while so many considered soccer unsuitable for women - even when Afghanistan wasn't under the Taliban's glare. Muhtaj also didn't have any social media presence until 2021.But Qasemi and the other youth players had no choice. A stranger was their only possible path to freedom. Qasemi made the emotional decision to travel alone, without her mother or any of her four younger siblings - the eldest aged 10 and the youngest just six months - because they could bring no more than three family members with them. Despite this distress, she and her teammates keenly followed Muhtaj's updates over WhatsApp; they observed instructions to move around the country's capital and venture into remote locations for various escape plans."These girls were heavily at risk. Anything could have happened to them. I was really fearful," Muhtaj said. "And you know what? We failed miserably dozens and dozens of times within each plan that we had."Qasemi remembers one failed plan two days before the Taliban's deadline of Aug. 30, 2021 for evacuees to leave the country. Muhtaj supplied the coordinate points to an unmapped gate at the back of the airport, but the girls found on their journey that the Taliban had recently opened a checkpoint on the only route to get there. Some girls, along with Qasemi, and their family members left their cars and still tried to reach the gate on foot through challenging terrain. They walked through the night and needed to wait until the darkness receded to see their target.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/cropped_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/w220xh124_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/w320xh180_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/w640xh360_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/w768xh432_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/772470/w1080xh607_IMG-20250213-WA0015.jpg?ts=1740602006 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Qasemi, at 13, winning MVP following a tournament in Mazar-i-Sharif Frishta Qasemi</figcaption></figure>"I was walking five, maybe six or seven, hours on the mountains to find a way to the door," Qasemi told theScore. Except, when they eventually saw the gate, it was now blocked by the Taliban. They were firing their guns into the air to deter people from moving closer.Qasemi started to doubt Muhtaj."I was so mad. I was crying so bad. I was like, 'Maybe she's just playing with us,'" Qasemi recalled.Questions kept rolling around in her head: "Why am I doing this? Am I leaving the country or not? Is Farkhunda helping me or not?"<h3>Losing trust</h3>Muhtaj had the difficult task of keeping everyone on board with the ever-shifting operation to get them out of Afghanistan, while also ensuring their safety and maintaining their trust. In many instances, hope burned out - and it didn't help that the militant rulers' deadline for evacuees to leave had expired.Belief was dwindling. Over 220 people were part of the original group Muhtaj was working to help evacuate. By the time she asked them to board buses for an eight-to-10 hour journey north from Kabul to Mazar-i-Sharif, more than half had decided to stay behind.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Afghanistan map" aria-label="Locator map" id="datawrapper-chart-0eAuz" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0eAuz/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="300" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Muhtaj attributes the loss of faith to malicious rumors that she was selling their passports and visas, deliberately feeding incorrect information, and planning to profit from the vulnerability of the girls and their desperate families."We never took a dime, ever," Muhtaj said. "We actually supported them financially as well, because all banks were closed, and so we tried through the partners that were on the ground (to give) them cash support to buy basic needs."The party of over 80 that remained stayed in safe houses in Mazar-i-Sharif for 20 days. The delay was longer than expected as Muhtaj dealt with another rush of issues, including more airport chaos and bordering countries unwilling to let the group in without asylum.They could only wait. Going outside risked attracting the attention of many Taliban stalking the streets."It was really hard for everyone to be in the same room with more than 20 or 30 people," Qasemi, who was born and raised in Mazar-i-Sharif, said. "It was really tough. Everybody was very bored and tired."A breakthrough occurred when Muhtaj and her team managed to secure the group a place on a chartered flight out of Afghanistan, a rarity after the Taliban regained control of the country. It was 22 days after the deadline to evacuate. Buses were quickly sent to the safe houses for transport to the airport to capitalize on the small window of opportunity. Concerns over documentation and other security-related problems at the airport evaporated as the plane took off for the Portuguese capital of Lisbon via Tbilisi, Georgia.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/cropped_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/w220xh124_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/w320xh180_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/w640xh360_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/w768xh432_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770441/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1343905100.jpg?ts=1739479237 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Muhtaj gives refugees surprise welcome after asylum was granted in Portugal Horacio Villalobos / Corbis News / Getty</figcaption></figure>There were mixed emotions as the girls left their homeland. From the bus window, Qasemi had soaked in the views of Mazar-i-Sharif; most of all her eyes studied the streets where she refused to surrender to oppressive cultural expectations, soldiering on through bruises and abuse to hone her soccer skills with local boys. Her defiance, and her talent as a skillful winger, ultimately led her to safety. She was still only 15 and without her family. But she was safe.The eventual success of Muhtaj's first evacuation attempt led to another mission in November. During the second wave, 225 people landed in Portugal. Overall, Muhtaj has helped over 300 escape Afghanistan.<h3>'She's like a mother for us'</h3>Muhtaj's humanitarian efforts aren't restricted to moving people from Afghanistan. She's the co-founder of the Scarborough Simbas, based in the east Toronto district where she grew up, which was an idea spawned from when she saw "how disproportionately affected the newcomer and refugee community was" during COVID-19. Coaching soccer to children from refugee families is at the organization's core, but it crucially acts as a support hub for local immigrants, too. Meals and gatherings are held at the Simbas' base. Grocery store vouchers are sometimes available to further combat food insecurity.Muhtaj's relationship with the footballers she saved also remains strong. Qasemi cherishes the times she plays with Ayenda FC, an Afghan youth national team. The squad is named after the word for "future" in Farsi and serves as an unofficial replacement for international soccer since playing sports is among the many basic human rights that the Taliban denies women. Qasemi and other girls who fled the deeply oppressive regime have competed at prestigious youth tournaments including Sweden's Gothia Cup and Denmark's Dana Cup, with Muhtaj on coaching duties."All of the girls on your team were the friends (from when) you were in the bad days. We know what we have been through," Qasemi said of the team spirit. "It's very special for me."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/cropped_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/w220xh124_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/w320xh180_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/w640xh360_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/w768xh432_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/770628/w1080xh607_File_010.jpg?ts=1739561018 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Team Ayenda Dana Cup</figcaption></figure>Qasemi's ties to her homeland were strengthened further when, after three testing months alone in Portugal, her mother and four siblings joined her on the Iberian peninsula. She's now on a scholarship in Wisconsin, but she travels back to Portugal to spend time with her family during breaks in her studies.Muhtaj's influence promises to endure in Qasemi's life. The Calgary Wild attacking midfielder and the young Afghan footballers don't get to see each other face-to-face regularly, but they keep in touch over WhatsApp and via video calls every two or three weeks."She's like a mother for us," Qasemi, now 19, said. "She always inspires us and motivates us to continue and to achieve the goals that we have."The evacuations from Afghanistan and continued projects with the Simbas and Ayenda have highlighted to Muhtaj how much of an impact she can make as a professional player."I feel like now as a footballer, I feel a greater sense of responsibility, and I know the power of what we can achieve on and off the pitch," Muhtaj shared.And, like Muhtaj, perhaps it's off the pitch where some of the girls will make the most meaningful impact."I always like to help people, especially refugees," Qasemi said.

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Meet the women's soccer trailblazer who helped hundreds flee the Taliban

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