Clubs are working feverishly in the January transfer window, and we're evaluating every major mov...

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Analysis and grades for every major January transfer: Guehi deal a steal

Antoine Semenyo has chosen Manchester City.  The London-born Ghanaian international has joined Pe...

<p>Antoine Semenyo has chosen Manchester City.</p><p>The London-born Ghanaian international has joined Pep Guardiola's side on a contract until June 2031 after City struck a deal with Bournemouth that reportedly bypassed his £65-million release clause.</p><p>Manchester City will instead pay £62.5 million over a 24-month spell, while Bournemouth could earn an extra £1.5 million in bonuses and a further 10% of any profit from a future sale, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6953448/2026/01/08/man-city-semenyo-transfer-release-clause/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I have watched City over the last decade under Pep Guardiola, and they have been the dominant team in the Premier League as well as achieving amazing things in the Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup," Semenyo <a href="https://www.mancity.com/news/mens/antoine-semenyo-transfer-manchester-city-bournemouth-63903542">said</a> upon his unveiling. </p><p>"I have so much scope for improvement, so to be at this club, at this stage of my career, is perfect for me ... My best football is yet to come, I am sure of that. And City are in a great position - still involved in four competitions. I really feel I can help them have a strong second half of the season."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">City's number 4️⃣2️⃣ <a href="https://t.co/EF5QX7oFQq">pic.twitter.com/EF5QX7oFQq</a></p>— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/2009555350383415492?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bournemouth convinced City to let Semenyo feature in three more matches for the club before his transfer, Ornstein adds. The 26-year-old's final act for the Cherries was an excellent 95th-minute winner against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.</p><p>"He's a big miss for us, he's a player that you cannot replace," Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola said after the 3-2 win, as quoted by <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/antoine-semenyo-man-city-transfer-news-latest-b2896933.html">The Independent's Will Castle</a>. "He's an incredible player."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Simply incredible. <a href="https://t.co/BgyzpjlaNn">pic.twitter.com/BgyzpjlaNn</a></p>— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) <a href="https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/2009052433868374258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham were all tracking the dynamic winger prior to the January transfer window, according to an earlier report by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6915594/2025/12/23/antoine-semenyo-manchester-city-transfer/">Ornstein</a>. However, Semenyo picked Manchester City because he wanted to work with Guardiola, transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2008668184182964699">Fabrizio Romano</a> reported Tuesday.</p><p>Semenyo was also linked with Manchester United.</p><p>The former Bristol City prospect has been one of the Premier League's standout attackers this season. He remains Bournemouth's leading scorer in England's top flight with 10 goals. Only two players - Manchester City's Erling Haaland and Brentford's Igor Thiago - have scored more this term.</p><p>Semenyo has also provided three assists, and should add another credible threat to a side that relies heavily on Haaland for goals. The prolific Norwegian has a league-leading 20 tallies on the campaign, but nobody else has more than seven for City. Only Haaland has taken more non-penalty shots than Semenyo since the start of the 2024-25 Premier League season.</p><p>Semenyo should immediately push for regular starts at City, especially while Oscar Bobb and Savinho are in the treatment room and Omar Marmoush is with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations.</p><p>Manchester City sit second in the Premier League after 21 matches, six points behind leaders Arsenal.</p>

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND - JANUARY 07: Antoine Semenyo of AFC Bournemouth acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Tottenham Hotspur at Vitality Stadium on January 07, 2026 in Bournemouth, England.

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Man City win Semenyo race with reported £62.5M transfer

Let the wheeling and dealing begin.   With the January transfer window now open, we're going arou...

<p><em>Let the wheeling and dealing begin. </em></p><p><em>With the January transfer window now open, we're going around the globe to present 50 players who could be on the move before deadline day on Feb. 2.</em></p><p>👉 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3339338" href="https://thescore.com/news/3339338">Latest transfer news and rumors</a></strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Jump to:</strong><br><a href="#EPL">🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</a> | <a href="#Liga">🇪🇸</a> | <a href="#Serie%20A">🇮🇹</a> | <a href="#Bundesliga">🇩🇪</a> | <a href="#Ligue%201">🇫🇷</a> | <a href="#Global">🌎</a></p><p><em>Note: Player values provided by <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.com/">transfermarkt.</a></em></p><h3>
<a id="EPL" name="EPL">Premier League</a> 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zVdH2" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zVdH2/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1440" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Coming off a record-breaking summer window in which they combined to spend over £3 billion on new signings, Premier League clubs are once again poised to spearhead the shopping spree. </p><p>A collection of players listed are desperate for more playing time, though some have tougher decisions than others. <strong>Jesus</strong> and <strong>Nwaneri</strong>, for example, could certainly earn more minutes elsewhere, but are they willing to leave what could be a title-winning Arsenal side to find them?</p><p>The Chelsea triumvirate of <strong>Disasi</strong>, <strong>George</strong>, and <strong>Sterling</strong> has combined for exactly zero Premier League starts this season, with the teenager the only one to actually get on the pitch at all. They're desperate for a change of scenery and fresh start in 2026.</p><p><strong>Guehi</strong>, one of several impending free agents on this list who's now able to speak with other teams about a pre-contract agreement, came agonizingly close to joining Liverpool in the summer - he literally started undergoing a medical before the deal collapsed on deadline day. Crystal Palace could decide to cash in now instead of losing their captain for nothing in six months.</p><p>As always, Manchester will be a focal point. Pep Guardiola's title contenders are reportedly on the verge of landing <strong>Semenyo</strong>, the breakout Bournemouth forward who could end up being the most expensive signing of the entire window. His arrival would likely trigger multiple dominoes, with <strong>Bobb</strong> and <strong>Marmoush</strong> being eyed by watchful clubs hoping to pounce the second that Semenyo's deal is finalized. </p><p>The Red Devils, meanwhile, will likely focus more on outgoings, with <strong>Mainoo</strong>'s future one of the biggest question marks. The 20-year-old's once ascendant career is in danger of stalling, and his departure has felt inevitable for months. <strong>Fernandes </strong>has openly admitted that Manchester United were gently trying to guide him out the door in the summer. Detrimental as it may be in the immediate term, they could certainly sell their captain if a suitable offer arrives, especially if it helps the club compile the funds needed to acquire <strong>Baleba</strong> or <strong>Anderson </strong>(now or in the summer).</p><p>And then there's Liverpool. The sputtering reigning champions have endured a miserable season, and it could be punctuated by the departure of a club legend in <strong>Salah</strong> after his infamous December outburst.</p><h3>
<a id="Liga" name="Liga">La Liga</a> 🇪🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-3QRv5" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/3QRv5/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="536" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Atletico Madrid are lagging behind their two illustrious La Liga rivals, and could look to shake things up once again after a busy and opulent summer. One of those summer additions, <strong>Raspadori</strong>, has failed to make much impact in the Spanish capital, starting just one league match thus far. <strong>Gallagher</strong>, despite being a prototypical Diego Simeone player, has fallen down the pecking order in midfield and could return to England.</p><p><strong>Ter Stegen</strong> needs minutes to convince Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann that he's recovered from his recent injuries and can challenge for the starting job at the World Cup. He won't get that opportunity if he remains at Barcelona, where Joan Garcia is the clear No. 1 netminder.</p><p><strong>Vinicius</strong> and <strong>Rodrygo</strong>, the exciting Brazilians who once appeared untouchable at Real Madrid as anchors of the side playing on opposite wings, have both been frustrated with their roles under Xabi Alonso. The former remains locked in tense contract negotiations with the club, while the latter has found himself on the bench more often than not. Either one actually leaving in January would be a surprise - players of that quality and pedigree don't often move during the season - but it's certainly not impossible. </p><h3>
<a id="Serie A" name="Serie%20A">Serie A</a> 🇮🇹</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-5iB56" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/5iB56/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="397" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The clubs highlighted above all believe they have a genuine chance to win the Scudetto this season; Italy's top five teams are separated by just six points right now. That has the potential to incite action as they each try to bolster their respective squads to pursue a title. But, this being Serie A, financial constraints don't allow for frivolous spending. New signings need to be offset by sales to keep the books balanced.</p><p><strong>Nkunku</strong>'s impact has been modest for AC Milan, while <strong>Frattesi</strong> has mostly been a non-factor for Inter since Cristian Chivu's appointment as manager. <strong>Dovbyk</strong> had an encouraging first season in the Italian capital, but he's been displaced up front by loanee Evan Ferguson.</p><p><strong>Vlahovic</strong>, one of the highest-paid players in the league, is a free agent after the season and has therefore been at the forefront of transfer rumors for months. Juventus would've gladly parted with him this past summer, but the sizable offer they wanted for the Serbian striker never materialized. He's currently sidelined with a groin injury, which complicates matters, but he could be available at a decent discount this month.</p><h3>
<a id="Bundesliga" name="Bundesliga">Bundesliga</a> 🇩🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-NbZEv" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/NbZEv/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="447" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Bayern Munich dropped roughly €30 million to sign <strong>Boey</strong> in January 2024, but he's been usurped as the starting right-back by Konrad Laimer - who's a natural midfielder - and will absolutely be moved if a good offer comes in.</p><p><strong>Schlotterbeck</strong> is one of the most intriguing players to watch in January. Borussia Dortmund's best center-back by some distance, his contract expires in 18 months, which puts BVB in a tricky situation. They haven't made progress on an extension, so it might behoove the club to sell him at peak value before a free transfer starts becoming a real possibility. Barcelona and Bayern Munich are both interested in the German international.</p><p><strong>Diomande</strong> and <strong>El Mala</strong> are two rising stars taking the Bundesliga by storm. RB Leipzig have all the negotiating power when it comes to the prodigious Ivorian, and their spectacular track record with sales suggests they will hold out until the summer, when they can instigate a proper months-long bidding war for their next standout prospect.</p><h3>
<a id="Ligue 1" name="Ligue%201">Ligue 1</a> 🇫🇷</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-MC6Pi" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/MC6Pi/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="289" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Ligue 1 continues to be one of the sport's most popular hunting grounds for European heavyweights seeking burgeoning talent. <strong>Bouaddi</strong> and <strong>Jacquet</strong>, two of the latest phenoms coming through France's vaunted pipeline, won't be at their respective clubs, Lille and Rennes, too much longer. Bouaddi, in particular, is reportedly a target for Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.</p><p>Speaking of PSG, <strong>Ramos</strong> continues to be linked with a number of European clubs seeking more firepower up front. Despite not being a first-choice option for Luis Enrique, the Portuguese striker is actually PSG's leading scorer across all competitions this season, providing a big boost either off the bench or while several teammates have missed time due to injury.</p><h3>
<a id="Global" name="Global">Around the world</a> 🌎</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Ox7H6" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Ox7H6/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="501" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>A pair of Portuguese internationals are expected to leave Saudi side Al-Hilal at some point over the next month. Inter are reportedly working hard to beat out Barcelona and bring <strong>Cancelo</strong> back to the San Siro, while <strong>Neves</strong> still has many admirers in Europe and is viewed as an affordable option who can raise the ceiling for several squads at a fraction of the cost of many peers.</p><p>Watch out for <strong>Smit</strong>, the creative ball-carrying midfielder who continues to shine at AZ Alkmaar. The teenager has caught the attention of Real Madrid, and his price tag only seems to increase with each passing match.</p><p><strong>Pepi</strong>, who has eyes on being the starting No. 9 for the United States at the World Cup, has a potentially career-altering choice to make this month. He's flourished at PSV, but could improve his standing in Mauricio Pochettino's mind if he moves to a stronger league and continues to find the net; Fulham reportedly had a €30-million bid rejected days ago. Of course, if Pepi does make a step up and then struggles, his World Cup chances could take a hit.</p><p>This being the final transfer window before the 2026 World Cup, countless players around the world are facing the exact same dilemma.</p><p>👉 <strong><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3339338" href="https://thescore.com/news/3339338">Latest transfer news and rumors</a></strong></p>

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Transfer big board: 50 players who could move in January window

Kyle Whittingham is bringing a familiar face with him to Ann Arbor.  Michigan's new head football...

<p>Kyle Whittingham is bringing a familiar face with him to Ann Arbor.</p><p>Michigan's new head football coach said Thursday that Utah offensive coordinator Jason Beck is leaving the Utes to reunite with him as the Wolverines' play-caller.</p><p>The move hasn't been officially announced by either program, but Whittingham confirmed Beck's switch during an appearance on ESPN's <a href="https://x.com/CollegeGameDay/status/2006756205566242996">College GameDay</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"That's huge for us," the ex-Utah head coach said of Beck's impending arrival.</p><p>"Jason did such a great job for us (at Utah) this past season. ... He's a guy that's moved the football and scored points everywhere he's been. It's going to be a big plus for us having him there," Whittingham continued.</p><p>Whittingham added that "a bunch" of other staff members from Utah will also join the Wolverines ahead of the 2026 season.</p><p>Beck isn't the only coordinator addition Michigan is finalizing. BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill agreed to be part of the Wolverines' staff in the same role, sources told <a href="https://x.com/PeteThamel/status/2006777836959576626?s=20">ESPN's Pete Thamel</a>.</p><p>BYU allowed 19.1 points per game in 2025, good for 21st in the nation. Hill has been the Cougars' defensive coordinator since 2022.</p><p>Utah ranked fifth in the nation in scoring in 2025, Beck's lone season running the offense under Whittingham. The Utes averaged 41.3 points per game while dominating on the ground, ranking No. 1 in yards per rushing attempt and No. 2 in rushing yards per contest.</p><p>Prior to joining Utah, the 45-year-old Beck served as offensive coordinator at New Mexico and Syracuse.</p>

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 28: Kyle Whittingham speaks at a news conference introducing him as the new Michigan Wolverines head football coach at the Hyatt Regency Orlando on December 28, 2025 in Orlando, Florida.

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Whittingham says Utah OC Beck is joining him at Michigan

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's ga...

<p>Milwaukee Bucks superstar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/30611" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/30611">Giannis Antetokounmpo</a> returned to the starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Chicago Bulls after missing the last eight contests with a right calf strain.</p><p>The two-time MVP cleared a pregame routine that was overseen by the team's training staff.</p><p>Antetokounmpo sustained the calf injury on Dec. 3. Milwaukee has gone 2-6 during his absence, a skid that's dropped the team to 11th in the Eastern Conference.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The nine-time All-Star has featured in only 17 of the Bucks' 31 games this season. He's been dominant when on the floor, averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists while shooting 64% from the field.</p><p>Milwaukee is 10-7 with him in the lineup.</p><p>Prior to the calf injury, Antetokounmpo missed additional time earlier this year because of a left adductor strain.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 11: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a timeout during the first half against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum on December 11, 2025 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Giannis starts vs. Bulls after 8-game absence

Bryce Harper is finally suiting up for the United States at the World Baseball Classic.  The Phil...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1688" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1688">Bryce Harper</a> is finally suiting up for the United States at the World Baseball Classic.</p><p>The Philadelphia Phillies' superstar first baseman announced Tuesday that he intends to take part in next year's event for the first time.</p><p>"Put the colors on my chest for the first time when I was 15. No other feeling like it," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bryceharper3/p/DSnC9uSkTNe/">Harper wrote on Instagram</a>. "I'm excited to announce I will be representing Team USA this year in the WBC. Merica!"</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MV3 🤝 Team USA<a href="https://twitter.com/bryceharper3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bryceharper3</a> will represent the United States at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldBaseballClassic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldBaseballClassic</a> 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/5dBD5wr2dn">pic.twitter.com/5dBD5wr2dn</a></p>— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) <a href="https://twitter.com/Phillies/status/2003489936406978641?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The two-time MVP missed the 2023 WBC while recovering from offseason elbow surgery following the Phillies' run to the NL pennant.</p><p>USA Baseball has not yet officially announced Harper's inclusion on the roster.</p><p>Assuming his spot is confirmed, he'll join Phillies teammate Kyle Schwarber on a loaded U.S. team that also includes fellow sluggers Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh, along with Cy Young winners Paul Skenes and Tarik Skubal.</p><p>Harper hit .261 with 27 homers and 75 RBIs in 2025.</p><p>The 33-year-old has represented his country in the past, winning a gold medal with USA Baseball's 16U and 18U teams in 2008 and 2009, respectively.</p><p>The World Baseball Classic begins March 5, 2026. </p><p>The Americans, who lost to Japan in the 2023 championship game, open play against Brazil on March 6 at Daikin Park in Houston.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - AUGUST 28: Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies celebrates after hitting a solo home run in the third inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park on August 28, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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Phillies' Harper commits to USA at World Baseball Classic

Mohamed Salah came off the bench and set up a goal in Liverpool's 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Al...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> came off the bench and set up a goal in Liverpool's 2-0 win over Brighton &amp; Hove Albion on Saturday, one week after his explosive outburst against the club and manager Arne Slot.</p><p>The Egyptian star was greeted by cheers from the Anfield crowd when he was introduced in the 26th minute to replace injured defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/49610" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/49610">Joe Gomez</a>.</p><p>Liverpool were leading 1-0 at the time after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166446" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166446">Hugo Ekitike</a>'s early goal.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Frenchman doubled the lead in the 60th minute when he headed home Salah's corner kick. </p><p>The assist saw Salah become the Premier League's all-time leader in goal contributions for a single club with 277. He moved ahead of Wayne Rooney, who racked up 276 combined goals and assists for Manchester United during his celebrated career.</p><p>Salah had a great chance to score a goal of his own in stoppage time, but his wayward shot sailed over the net after a quick Liverpool counterattack.</p><p>After the match, Slot said there was "no issue to resolve" with Salah, according to <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20251213-liverpool-s-slot-says-no-issue-to-resolve-with-salah-after-outburst">Agence France-Presse</a>.</p><p>"For me he's now the same as any other player," the Dutch coach said. "You talk to your players if you're happy or unhappy with things, but there's nothing for me to talk about after what happened against Leeds, after the game."</p><p>"I think, as I usually never say anything about (what) we talk about, I'm not going to make an exception now, but I think actions speak louder than what has been said," Slot continued. "He was in the squad again and when I had to make my first substitutions, I brought him in. And he performed as I think every fan, including me, would like him to perform today."</p><p>Salah recently expressed his frustration with Liverpool, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3420671" href="https://thescore.com/news/3420671">saying</a> last weekend that the club had "thrown me under the bus" and that his relationship with Slot was over after being named on the bench for three consecutive games. He came on as a second-half substitute in the second match of that run against Sunderland, but didn't make a telling contribution in the 1-1 draw.</p><p>Slot omitted Salah from the Champions League squad that traveled for Tuesday's 1-0 win at Inter Milan after the rant. However, he opened the door for reconciliation Friday morning when he said he would talk to the Egyptian attacker later that day. "I have no reasons not wanting him to stay," Slot <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3425489" href="https://thescore.com/news/3425489">said</a>.</p><p>However, during his tirade, Salah revealed that he had invited his parents to the Brighton game, believing that it could be his last appearance for Liverpool. "I don't know if I am going to play or not, but I am going to enjoy it," he said.</p><p>Salah is now due to join the Egypt squad for its Africa Cup of Nations campaign. </p><p>The break from Liverpool is viewed as time for both parties to decide whether his future lies at Anfield or elsewhere, according to <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/12/12/arne-slot-i-will-talk-to-salah-today-decide-if-he-is-back/">The Telegraph's Mike McGrath</a>. Salah's agent, Ramy Abbas, will continue talks with the club while his client is at the tournament, Patel reports.</p><p>Salah has frequently been linked to a lucrative transfer to the Saudi Pro League, and those rumors intensified Wednesday after <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/37607550/mo-salah-jordan-henderson-liverpool-meeting/">The Sun</a> published pictures of the 33-year-old meeting former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson in London. Salah's ex-teammate played for Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia but left the club after five months.</p>

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 13: Mohamed Salah and Ryan Gravenberch of Liverpool celebrate after the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on December 13, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Salah returns after outburst, makes history in Liverpool's win

Our monthly World Cup lookahead examines the biggest talking points relating to next summer's tou...

<p><em>Our monthly World Cup lookahead examines the biggest talking points relating to next summer's tournament. In this edition, all the focus is on the group stage draw. At T-minus six months, the countdown continues.</em></p><h3>Crystal ball 🔮</h3><p><em>Predicted order of finish for each group. Teams that still have to advance through the playoffs to reach the World Cup are italicized.</em></p><p><strong>Group A</strong>: <em>Denmark</em>, South Korea, Mexico, South Africa. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Let's start with a surprise right from the jump, shall we? Although a lot can change in six months, at the moment, there's little reason to have faith that Mexico can utilize its theoretical home-field advantage next summer. If anything, playing on home soil in front of expectant supporters could have the opposite effect for a sputtering side that hasn't won a game since the Gold Cup final in July. Denmark, forced to navigate the European playoffs after its late qualifying collapse in Scotland, should punch its ticket, while Son Heung-min and Lee Kang-in are more than capable of causing headaches for Mexico's defense.</p><p><strong>Group B</strong>: <em>Italy</em>, Canada, Switzerland, Qatar. </p><p>The Italians getting through the playoffs is no guarantee after we've seen them fall on their face at that exact stage in the last two qualifying cycles. But missing three World Cups in a row? Sacrilege. Italy hasn't won a World Cup game in over a decade, but that barren run should end next year; a potential opener in Toronto could end up being like a home game for the Azzurri, while revenge will be a motivating factor against a solid but unspectacular Swiss squad following their Euro 2024 meeting. Co-host Canada is the wild card. Jesse Marsch's aggressive, quick, confident team fears nobody and genuinely believes it can accomplish far more than just registering the nation's first-ever win at a men's World Cup.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Read more</strong>: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3409537" href="https://thescore.com/news/3409537"><strong>Winners and losers from World Cup draw</strong></a></p></blockquote><p><strong>Group C</strong>: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti. </p><p>Brazil, the only team to appear at every World Cup, goes into each tournament with the same goal: win it all. Things are no different this time. If anything, the pressure intensified after the hiring of iconic manager Carlo Ancelotti. But pulling Morocco from Pot 2, and also having to play Africa's top team in its tournament opener, is a tough break for a Selecao squad still trying to forge an identity under the Italian bench boss. Balance remains an issue; Brazil has wide forwards and center-backs to spare, but is worryingly thin in central midfield and full-back. Morocco, a semifinalist in Qatar, can absolutely win this group.</p><p><strong>Group D</strong>: United States, <em>Turkey</em>, Paraguay, Australia. </p><p>The U.S. made out like bandits here. Yes, Turkey would be a very credible threat to win Group D if it advances through the playoffs - Arda Guler and Kenan Yildiz are blossoming superstars. But Mauricio Pochettino's men, now on the upswing after some early growing pains under the Argentine, get to open their tournament against Paraguay and Australia, two teams they just beat in recent outings. Friendly results can sometimes be misleading, but the Americans have every possible advantage over both of those teams: overall talent, home soil, and the added confidence that comes with those aforementioned victories.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/cropped_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/800760/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1757516437 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Group E</strong>: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curacao. </p><p>A sneaky contender for the tournament's most interesting quartet. Germany stands out as the obvious favorite, but the team is still evolving under Julian Nagelsmann. To reach its full potential, the 2014 champion needs Jamal Musiala to recover from his gruesome leg injury and Florian Wirtz to snap out of his Liverpool malaise. Even that might not be enough to break down an Ecuadorian side that's among the best defensive units in the world. Ecuador conceded just five times in 18 qualifying matches and hasn't allowed more than one goal in a single game since June 2024. The Ivorians, meanwhile, are flying under the radar with an excellent squad that nicely blends skill, size, steel, and experience.</p><p><strong>Group F</strong>: Netherlands, Japan, <em>Sweden</em>, Tunisia. </p><p>The opening matchup in Dallas, an aesthetically pleasing June 14 clash between the Oranje and Samurai Blue, should determine who tops one of the tournament's more finely poised groups. Ronald Koeman's squad is, frankly, outstanding. If Memphis Depay, now 31, can continue delivering goals, the Netherlands are genuine contenders to win the World Cup considering the construction of the XI and the overall depth, especially in defense and midfield. We're probably all sleeping on the Dutch a little bit. That won't faze Japan's technically gifted squad, and Sweden could play spoiler if it advances through the playoffs. Keep a close eye on this group next summer.</p><p><strong>Group G</strong>: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand. </p><p>We've all been burned by Belgium's "Golden Generation" in the past, so I understand the hesitance and skepticism surrounding the Red Devils. But the perennial tournament underachiever, now sporting a new crop of exciting young players supporting veteran talisman Kevin De Bruyne, should blitz this group. The matchup with Egypt will be a swan song of sorts for De Bruyne (who should be fit) and Mohamed Salah, two generational stars who helped define the last decade of Premier League football.</p><p><strong>Group H</strong>: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde. </p><p>Led by Lamine Yamal, tournament favorite Spain got quite the gift here. Uruguay is a mercurial side that's scuffling right now under Marcelo Bielsa; Saudi Arabia's biggest asset is seasoned coach Herve Renard, but he can only do so much from the bench; Cape Verde, one of the smallest countries to ever qualify, simply can't overcome the talent discrepancy with Luis de la Fuente's squad. Even if Rodri isn't involved, Spain's depth - hello, Martin Zubimendi - and cohesion should comfortably overwhelm the competition in Group H.</p><p><strong>Group I</strong>: France, Norway, Senegal, <em>Bolivia</em>. </p><p>This is the closest thing we have to a proverbial "Group of Death" with the expanded field, but it's ... pretty damn good? The Kylian Mbappe-Erling Haaland matchup is the standout individual clash of the entire opening round, while Senegal, loaded with players who ply their trade across Europe's top leagues, will harbor memories of the nation's unforgettable upset win over Les Bleus at the 2002 World Cup. Notoriously conservative coach Didier Deschamps has vowed to evolve and unleash the full force of France's absurd collection of attacking players. If he does, this group gains even more box office appeal.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/cropped_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813346/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246697444.jpg?ts=1765383404 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Xavier Laine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Group J</strong>: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan. </p><p>No surprises here. The reigning champion, which will return much of the core that hoisted the trophy in 2022, got a forgiving draw from the soccer gods. Ralf Rangnick's Austria, with its vigorous high press, will provide a stern test, but let's not overthink this one. Although Lionel Messi insists he hasn't made a final decision on his playing status for the World Cup, it would be truly stunning if he doesn't partake. With Messi as the center of attention, as always, Argentina should secure top spot.</p><p><strong>Group K</strong>: Portugal, Colombia, <em>DR Congo</em>, Uzbekistan. </p><p>Cristiano Ronaldo will be looking to wash away the bitter taste of the 2022 World Cup when he makes his record sixth (and final) tournament appearance next summer. For better or worse, Roberto Martinez won't drop him from the lineup, so Ronaldo, who'll be 41 when the competition begins, will have every opportunity to add to his 143 international goals. It won't be easy, though. Colombia is more than capable of beating Portugal to first place, DR Congo will be tricky if it emerges from the intercontinental playoff, and Uzbekistan could task rapid Manchester City defender Abdukodir Khusanov with shadowing Ronaldo when they face off in Houston.</p><p><strong>Group L</strong>: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama. </p><p>Opening against Luka Modric and Croatia means there's no time for the Three Lions to ease into the tournament. Thomas Tuchel's men need to be sharp right from the opening whistle. The German tactician's no-nonsense approach should help in that regard. England, having come so close to winning the last two European Championships, is a genuine title contender, but any slip against an experienced Croatian side could create a nightmarish path through the knockout stage. Ghana, meanwhile, might only need one win to advance as a third-placed team and will be a very tough out for anyone.</p><h3>North American notebook 🇺🇸🇨🇦</h3><p><em>Additional thoughts on Canada and the United States.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m8nfM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m8nfM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><strong>X-factor: Christian Pulisic</strong></p><p>Pochettino's fostered healthy internal competition by giving opportunities to several breakout players in recent months, but don't get it twisted: Pulisic remains the USMNT's best, most dynamic player. Despite only starting five matches for AC Milan this season due to various injuries, the 27-year-old is tied for the lead in Serie A scoring with seven goals. He's racked up 1.42 goals per 90 minutes and converted on 50% of his shots. His underlying numbers suggest this is unsustainable, but it's not beyond the realm of possibility that he could simply stay red-hot for another six months leading into the World Cup. If he does, the United States' chance of making real noise grows significantly.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-e9SpC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/e9SpC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p><strong>X-factor: Health</strong></p><p>You could apply this asterisk to every team, of course, but it's particularly relevant for Canada considering how hard the injury bug hit the squad in 2025. After missing 262 days with a torn ACL, captain and superstar Alphonso Davies made his return for Bayern Munich in the Champions League this week. That alone is reason for optimism. Right-back Alistair Johnston expects to be back on the pitch for Celtic in the new year after hamstring surgery, while standout central defender Moise Bombito continues to recover from a broken tibia. That's three quarters of Marsch's preferred back-four. If they're all 100% come the World Cup, Canada's self-belief will skyrocket.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 💥</h3><p><em>Assorted predictions for the tournament.</em></p><p><strong>New scoring record</strong>: Legendary French striker Just Fontaine's benchmark of 13 goals in a single World Cup, which has stood since 1958, is in danger. The supersized 2026 edition offers an additional game for the likes of Mbappe, Haaland, and Harry Kane to eclipse the long-standing record. The expanded tournament should also feature more mismatches where the very best strikers can feast.</p><p><strong>Wait goes on</strong>: There's a reason nobody has successfully retained the World Cup title since Brazil accomplished the feat in 1962. Putting all the necessary pieces together just once is hard enough, let alone at consecutive events - timing, talent, form, fitness, and luck all play simultaneous roles. The stars simply don't align that often. That's why, with or without Messi, Argentina won't follow up its memorable triumph in Qatar with another crown.</p><p><strong>Spanish dynasty</strong>: Spain authored one of the most dominant stretches in men's soccer history when it sandwiched the 2010 World Cup title between European Championship crowns in 2008 and 2012. A similar run may be on the horizon. A fortuitous draw has set the stage for Yamal and the reigning European champion to hoist the sport's most coveted trophy in North America. Right now, I'm taking Spain over England in a riveting final. </p><p><strong>Ad breaks</strong>: Under the guise of player welfare, FIFA said it would implement three-minute hydration breaks in each half of every World Cup match next summer, regardless of the playing conditions. You don't need a Ph.D to recognize this as the governing body's latest cash grab; those interludes will be filled with ads on the broadcasts. At this point, you almost have to admire the grift. Say this for Gianni Infantino: He isn't trying to be subtle.</p><h3>Betting odds 🤑</h3><p><em>Which teams are favored to win the tournament?</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Country</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Spain 🇪🇸</td>
<td>+450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿</td>
<td> +550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brazil 🇧🇷</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>France 🇫🇷</td>
<td> +700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Argentina 🇦🇷</td>
<td> +800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portugal 🇵🇹</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Germany 🇩🇪</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Netherlands 🇳🇱</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Norway 🇳🇴</td>
<td>+2800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Italy 🇮🇹</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uruguay 🇺🇾</td>
<td>+3300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Belgium 🇧🇪</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colombia 🇨🇴</td>
<td>+4000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mexico 🇲🇽</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USA 🇺🇸</td>
<td> +5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ecuador 🇪🇨</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Morocco 🇲🇦</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Switzerland 🇨🇭</td>
<td>+8000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Canada 🇨🇦</td>
<td> +10000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Croatia 🇭🇷</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>⚽️ <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Forganization%2Finternational%2Fcompetition%2Ffifa-world-cup-2026%2Fsection%2Ffutures&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3423433"><strong>Check out all of the 2026 World Cup odds available on theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><h3>How'd they get here? 🎟️</h3><p><em>For a detailed breakdown of how each team has qualified so far, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3246611" href="https://thescore.com/news/3246611">here</a>.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-49OlQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/49OlQ/10/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="273" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Key dates ahead 🗓️</h3><p><strong>March 23-31, 2026</strong>: World Cup qualifying playoffs<br><strong>June 1-9, 2026</strong>: Pre-tournament friendly matches<br><strong>June 11, 2026</strong>: World Cup opening match</p>

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World Cup Run-Up: Early predictions after the draw

It took two days. There were several musical numbers. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino delivered multi...

<p><em>It took two days. There were several musical numbers. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino delivered multiple speeches. U.S. President Donald Trump received a new "peace prize." Hollywood-inspired pomp and circumstance dominated proceedings. But after all that, the 2026 World Cup draw is complete, and the tournament schedule has been unveiled. View the groups and details for all 104 matches.</em></p><h3>Group A 🇲🇽🇿🇦🇰🇷</h3><p><em>Mexico (co-host), South Africa, South Korea, UEFA Playoff D</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 11</td>
<td>Mexico vs. South Africa</td>
<td>Mexico City</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 11</td>
<td>South Korea vs. UEFA Playoff D</td>
<td>Guadalajara</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 18</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff D vs. South Africa</td>
<td>Atlanta</td>
<td>12 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 18</td>
<td>Mexico vs. South Korea</td>
<td>Guadalajara</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff D vs. Mexico</td>
<td>Mexico City</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>South Africa vs. South Korea</td>
<td>Monterrey</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff D</strong>: Denmark, North Macedonia, Czechia, or Ireland</em></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Mexico, currently struggling under Javier Aguirre, will open the tournament against South Africa at the Estadio Azteca. Of the three co-hosts, Mexico's home advantage might arguably be the most volatile. El Tri could benefit greatly from their home support, but if things go sideways, the Mexican fans have already shown they're more than willing to make the players on the pitch aware of their frustrations. The final spot in the group will be determined in March 2026, when all the <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3403774" href="https://thescore.com/news/3403774">European and intercontinental playoffs</a> take place to decide the last six qualifiers for the World Cup.</p><h3>Group B 🇨🇦🇶🇦🇨🇭</h3><p><em>Canada (co-host), UEFA Playoff A, Qatar, Switzerland</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 12</td>
<td>Canada vs. UEFA Playoff A</td>
<td>Toronto</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 13</td>
<td>Qatar vs. Switzerland</td>
<td>San Francisco</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 18</td>
<td>Switzerland vs. UEFA Playoff A</td>
<td>Los Angeles</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 18</td>
<td>Canada vs. Qatar</td>
<td>Vancouver</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 24</td>
<td>Switzerland vs. Canada</td>
<td>Vancouver</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 24</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff A vs. Qatar</td>
<td>Seattle</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff A</strong>: Italy, Northern Ireland, Wales, or Bosnia and Herzegovina</em></p><p>Should Italy advance through its UEFA playoff path, the Azzurri will return to the tournament for the first time since 2014 with a match against Canada in Toronto. The city's sizable Canadian-Italian population would have to decide which shirt color to don for the contest.</p><h3>Group C 🇧🇷🇲🇦🇭🇹🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿</h3><p><em>Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 13</td>
<td>Brazil vs. Morocco</td>
<td>New Jersey</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 13</td>
<td>Haiti vs. Scotland</td>
<td>Boston</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 19</td>
<td>Scotland vs. Morocco</td>
<td>Boston</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 19</td>
<td>Brazil vs. Haiti</td>
<td>Philadelphia</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 24</td>
<td>Scotland vs. Brazil</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 24</td>
<td>Morocco vs. Haiti</td>
<td>Atlanta</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil won't have it easy in Group C. Morocco, which finished fourth at the 2022 World Cup, will provide a massive test. Meanwhile, Scotland returns to the tournament for the first time in 28 years and will be spurred on by a boisterous Tartan Army.</p><h3>Group D 🇺🇸🇵🇾🇦🇺</h3><p><em>United States (co-host), Paraguay, Australia, UEFA Playoff C</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 12</td>
<td>United States vs. Paraguay</td>
<td>Los Angeles</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 13</td>
<td>Australia vs. UEFA Playoff C</td>
<td>Vancouver</td>
<td>12 a.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 19</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff C vs. Paraguay</td>
<td>San Francisco</td>
<td>12 a.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 19</td>
<td>United States vs. Australia</td>
<td>Seattle</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff C vs. United States</td>
<td>Los Angeles</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>Paraguay vs. Australia</td>
<td>San Francisco</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff C</strong>: Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, or Kosovo</em></p><p>Mauricio Pochettino has to be happy with this. While the result of the European playoff could make this quartet more difficult, the suddenly high-flying United States will take on Paraguay and Australia - two teams it recently defeated in friendly matches.</p><h3>Group E 🇩🇪🇨🇼🇨🇮🇪🇨</h3><p><em>Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 14</td>
<td>Germany vs. Curacao</td>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 14</td>
<td>Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador</td>
<td>Philadelphia</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 20</td>
<td>Germany vs. Ivory Coast</td>
<td>Toronto</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 20</td>
<td>Ecuador vs. Curacao</td>
<td>Kansas City</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>Ecuador vs. Germany</td>
<td>New Jersey</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>Curacao vs. Ivory Coast</td>
<td>Philadelphia</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p><strong><em><a href="thescore:///topsn/news">Get the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our Top Soccer News section and subscribing to push notifications</a>.</em></strong></p></blockquote><p>Although the Germans stumbled a little bit in qualifying, they ultimately got the job done and now stand out as the favorites to advance from Group E. Ecuador's resolute defense will be very difficult to break down, while the Ivorians have all the talent necessary to cause major upsets in the group. Both sides will fancy their chances against tiny tournament debutant Curacao.</p><h3>Group F 🇳🇱🇯🇵🇹🇳</h3><p><em>Netherlands, Japan, UEFA Playoff B, Tunisia</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 14</td>
<td>Netherlands vs. Japan</td>
<td>Dallas</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 14</td>
<td>UEFA Playoff B vs. Tunisia</td>
<td>Monterrey</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 20</td>
<td>Netherlands vs. UEFA Playoff B</td>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 20</td>
<td>Tunisia vs. Japan</td>
<td>Monterrey</td>
<td>12 a.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>Japan vs. UEFA Playoff B</td>
<td>Dallas</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 25</td>
<td>Tunisia vs. Netherlands</td>
<td>Kansas City</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>UEFA Playoff B</strong>: Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, or Albania</em></p><p>This could sneakily end up being one of the most interesting groups of the tournament, with the Netherlands and Japan playing refined styles that will be easy on the eyes. Tunisia, a perennial World Cup team that's always among Africa's most stout sides, will push them all the way.</p><h3>Group G 🇧🇪🇪🇬🇮🇷🇳🇿</h3><p><em>Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 15</td>
<td>Iran vs. New Zealand</td>
<td>Los Angeles</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 15</td>
<td>Belgium vs. Egypt</td>
<td>Seattle</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 21</td>
<td>Belgium vs. Iran</td>
<td>Los Angeles</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 21</td>
<td>New Zealand vs. Egypt</td>
<td>Vancouver</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>Egypt vs. Iran</td>
<td>Seattle</td>
<td>11 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>New Zealand vs. Belgium</td>
<td>Vancouver</td>
<td>11 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah will see plenty of familiar faces when the Egyptian star and his teammates take on Belgium in what is the most interesting Group G contest. Iran and New Zealand meet in their first match, which should create a perfect group dynamic in which they both come out knowing that anything less than a victory in the opener could be devastating for their chances of advancing.</p><h3>Group H 🇪🇸🇨🇻🇸🇦🇺🇾</h3><p><em>Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 15</td>
<td>Spain vs. Cape Verde</td>
<td>Atlanta</td>
<td>12 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 15</td>
<td>Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 21</td>
<td>Spain vs. Saudi Arabia</td>
<td>Atlanta</td>
<td>12 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 21</td>
<td>Uruguay vs. Cape Verde</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia</td>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>Uruguay vs. Spain</td>
<td>Guadalajara</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Tough break for first-timer Cape Verde and 2034 World Cup host Saudi Arabia, as matchups with Spain and Uruguay are about as daunting as they come in the same group. Soccer's greatest spectacle always delivers some stunners, though, and the Saudis will look to replicate what they did to eventual champion Argentina in 2022. </p><h3>Group I 🇫🇷🇸🇳🇳🇴</h3><p><em>France, Senegal, Intercontinental Playoff 2, Norway</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 16</td>
<td>France vs. Senegal</td>
<td>New Jersey</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 16</td>
<td>Intercontinental Playoff 2 vs. Norway</td>
<td>Boston</td>
<td>6 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>France vs. Intercontinental Playoff 2</td>
<td>Philadelphia</td>
<td>5 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>Norway vs. Senegal</td>
<td>New Jersey</td>
<td>8 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>Norway vs. France</td>
<td>Boston</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 26</td>
<td>Senegal vs. Intercontinental Playoff 2</td>
<td>Toronto</td>
<td>3 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 2</strong>: Iraq, Bolivia, or Suriname</em></p><p>This is probably the big one for neutral viewers. Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland, arguably the two most singularly dominant forwards in the sport today, will clash when title hopeful France battles a loaded Norwegian side that steamrolled its competition in qualifying to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998. Don't overlook Senegal: the Lions of Teranga have prior experience against France in World Cup matchups.</p><h3>Group J 🇦🇷🇩🇿🇦🇹🇯🇴</h3><p><em>Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 16</td>
<td>Argentina vs. Algeria</td>
<td>Kansas City</td>
<td>9 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 16</td>
<td>Austria vs. Jordan</td>
<td>San Francisco</td>
<td>12 a.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>Argentina vs. Austria</td>
<td>Dallas</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 22</td>
<td>Jordan vs. Algeria</td>
<td>San Francisco</td>
<td>11 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Algeria vs. Austria</td>
<td>Kansas City</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Jordan vs. Argentina</td>
<td>Dallas</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Assuming Lionel Messi plays at the World Cup - he remains coy on his status whenever he's asked - the Argentine icon and his compatriots will be <em>loving</em> what transpired at the draw. The reigning World Cup champion was paired with just one European nation and looks, at least on paper, like an overwhelming mismatch for Algeria and Jordan.</p><h3>Group K 🇵🇹🇺🇿🇨🇴</h3><p><em>Portugal, Intercontinental Playoff 1, Uzbekistan, Colombia</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 17</td>
<td>Portugal vs. Intercontinental Playoff 1</td>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 17</td>
<td>Uzbekistan vs. Colombia</td>
<td>Mexico City</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 23</td>
<td>Portugal vs. Uzbekistan</td>
<td>Houston</td>
<td>1 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 23</td>
<td>Colombia vs. Intercontinental Playoff 1</td>
<td>Guadalajara</td>
<td>10 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Colombia vs. Portugal</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Intercontinental Playoff 1 vs. Uzbekistan</td>
<td>Atlanta</td>
<td>7:30 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 1</strong>: DR Congo, Jamaica, or New Caledonia</em></p><p>Cristiano Ronaldo didn't get quite so lucky thanks to Portugal being paired with the extremely talented Colombians. But the all-time top scorer in men's international soccer, free to play in the tournament despite his red card in qualifying, could certainly add to his record tally in this group.</p><h3>Group L 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇭🇷🇬🇭🇵🇦</h3><p><em>England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Match</th>
<th>City</th>
<th>Time (ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>June 17</td>
<td>England vs. Croatia</td>
<td>Dallas</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 17</td>
<td>Ghana vs. Panama</td>
<td>Toronto</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 23</td>
<td>England vs. Ghana</td>
<td>Boston</td>
<td>4 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 23</td>
<td>Panama vs. Croatia</td>
<td>Toronto</td>
<td>7 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Panama vs. England</td>
<td>New Jersey</td>
<td>5 p.m.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>June 27</td>
<td>Croatia vs. Ghana</td>
<td>Philadelphia</td>
<td>5 p.m.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>England versus Croatia is another standout match in the group stage. Thomas Tuchel's loaded squad is being tipped as one of the tournament favorites, and with good reason. Luka Modric and his battle-tested Croatian teammates will provide a perfect early test that could give a good indication of just how legitimate the Three Lions' title aspirations are.</p><p><em>To learn more about each team that's qualified so far, tap <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3246611">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Knockout schedule</h3><p>Once the group stage concludes, the expanded knockout stage of the World Cup runs as follows:</p><ul>
<li>
<strong>Round of 32</strong>: June 28-July 3</li>
<li>
<strong>Round of 16</strong>: July 4-7</li>
<li>
<strong>Quarterfinals</strong>: July 8-11</li>
<li>
<strong>Semifinals</strong>: July 14-15</li>
<li>
<strong>Third-place match</strong>: July 18</li>
<li>
<strong>Final</strong>: July 19</li>
</ul><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">104 matches. Locked in.<br><br>The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> 2026™ match schedule ⤵️ <a href="https://t.co/ZYofjO8z41">pic.twitter.com/ZYofjO8z41</a></p>— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1997364625562542268?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>In a delicious outcome, if Argentina and Portugal both win their groups and advance to the quarterfinals, icons Messi and Ronaldo could meet with a semifinal berth on the line. Ronaldo has already said this will be his final World Cup, while Messi is yet to confirm that he will play in the event, remaining coy on his participation.</p><p>The semifinals, played at AT&amp;T Stadium on July 14 and Mercedes-Benz Stadium the following day, will start at 3 p.m. ET.</p><p>The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with FIFA confirming that it will kick off at 3 p.m. ET. That will allow for prime-time viewing in continental Europe and Britain.</p><p>Sweltering conditions could be a concern during the showpiece match, though. On average over the last 30 years, the July 19 temperature at 3 p.m. in East Rutherford is 83 degrees Fahrenheit (28 Celsius), according to AccuWeather.</p><h3>How will it all work?</h3><p>The World Cup will feature 48 teams for the first time in the event's storied 95-year history, making this the biggest edition ever. The expansion from the 32-squad format used since 1998 means there will be more of everything in North America next summer: teams, players, games, and permutations to follow.</p><p>The top two from each of the 12 groups will advance to the single-elimination knockout stage, as in previous years. But this time, they'll be joined by the eight best third-placed teams from the group stage, creating a knockout bracket that features 32 teams instead of the usual 16.</p><p>If third-placed teams from the various groups are tied on points, the following tiebreakers will be used, in order, to determine who advances to the knockout stage: goal difference, total goals scored, conduct score (yellow and red card accumulation), and, finally, FIFA ranking.</p><p>Every knockout game from the round of 32 to the World Cup final is winner-take-all. If a match is tied after 90 minutes, the teams will play 30 minutes of extra time, split into 15-minute halves. If there's <em>still</em> no winner, the outcome is decided by a penalty shootout, just as it was in the 2022 World Cup final when Messi and Argentina defeated France.</p><blockquote><p><strong><em><a href="thescore:///topsn/news">Get the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our Top Soccer News section and subscribing to push notifications</a>.</em></strong></p></blockquote>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 06: Detail of the FIFA World Cup Trophy as the screen displays the schedule during the FIFA World Cup 2026 official match schedule announcement on December 06, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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2026 World Cup: Full schedule revealed after group stage draw

Max Verstappen is doing everything he can to retain the Formula 1 title and overturn what once se...

<p>Max Verstappen is doing everything he can to retain the Formula 1 title and overturn what once seemed like an insurmountable deficit.</p><p>The Red Bull driver secured pole position for Sunday's title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, outdueling championship leader Lando Norris and fellow contender Oscar Piastri during Saturday's qualifying session.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Abu Dhabi GP Qualifying 🇦🇪" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1koF4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1koF4/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="854" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Verstappen is just 12 points behind Norris going into the last race of the 2025 season, where a thrilling three-way battle will be decided at the Yas Marina Circuit.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Piastri, who led the way for much of the year before faltering late, is 16 points behind his McLaren teammate.</p><p>Championship leader Norris will secure his first title as long as he finishes anywhere on the podium Sunday.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Read more: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3414694" href="https://thescore.com/news/3414694">How Norris, Verstappen, Piastri can win title</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Verstappen looked at one point this season to be well out of contention as Red Bull struggled to keep pace with McLaren's superior machinery, but he's now put himself in striking position to win his fifth consecutive F1 crown.</p><p>A Q3 tow from outgoing teammate Yuki Tsunoda helped the Dutchman qualify quickest ahead of the McLaren pair Saturday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A little bit of magic from Max ✨<br><br>Ride onboard with the Red Bull driver as he storms to pole 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabiGP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pirellisport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pirellisport</a> <a href="https://t.co/cMktX4XmcE">pic.twitter.com/cMktX4XmcE</a></p>— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1997324336391200826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The driver who's started on pole has won every race in Abu Dhabi since 2015.</p><p>"That was insane," Verstappen said over team radio after securing P1. "Yes. Lovely."</p><p>Elsewhere, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton had another sobering outing for Ferrari, getting eliminated in Q1 for the third consecutive race. His qualifying struggles came after he crashed in third practice earlier in the day.</p><p>"I'm so sorry," Hamilton told his race engineer over the radio after once again failing to get out of Q1. "There are no words to express how I feel."</p>

TOPSHOT - Red Bull Racing's Dutch driver Max Verstappen reacts after taking the pole position at the end of the qualifying session ahead of the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on December 6, 2025.

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Verstappen on pole for title decider ahead of Norris, Piastri

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch says it would be "outstanding" if his team could play its opening ...

<p>Canada head coach Jesse Marsch says it would be "outstanding" if his team could play its opening match at the 2026 World Cup on home soil against four-time champion Italy.</p><p>Canada was grouped together with Switzerland and Qatar during Friday's draw, with the final place in Group B going to the winner of the European playoff path that includes the Azzurri, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. That playoff will be decided in March 2026.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Read more: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3412147" href="https://thescore.com/news/3412147">Full World Cup draw</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>The significant Italian population in Toronto, where Canada is playing its first game next summer, would likely create a feverish atmosphere.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Our first game at home - I know there would be a lot of Italian-Canadians at the match and they had better root for Canada, that's all I'm saying," Marsch said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/47215119/2026-world-cup-draw-canada-jesse-marsch-eager-outstanding-home-italy-fixture">Mark Ogden of ESPN</a>.</p><p>"I live in Italy and I think Italy is a really good team. (Gennaro) Gattuso has come in and done a good job, made them very competitive in their last matches and that would be a big challenge for us and incredible moment for us in a home World Cup to have Canada against Italy."</p><p>Italy is trying to qualify for the World Cup after missing the last two editions.</p><p>Marsch praised Switzerland's overall talent and possession-based game, Qatar's organization under experienced manager Julen Lopetegui, and the quality of all four sides in the European playoff.</p><p>While the 52-year-old American made sure to highlight the strength of each opponent, he remains supremely confident in the abilities and potential of his own team.</p><p>"Yes," Marsch told <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/fifa-world-cup/video/2025/12/05/marsch-feeling-confident-after-learning-canadas-group-b-opponents/">James Duthie of TSN</a> when asked if he thinks Canada can win its group next summer. "I would've said that no matter who was in the group. I believe in our team. I believe in the strength of our team. I believe in the confidence of our team, and playing at home will be a big advantage. </p><p>He added: "We're not going to be overconfident, we're going to be very realistic, we're going to stay focused ... I believe in these players, I believe in this team, and we're really excited."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 05: Jesse Marsch, Head Coach of Canada, reacts after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Marsch excited about possible Italy clash, says Canada can beat anyone

Mauricio Pochettino is warning his players against complacency following Friday's draw for the 20...

<p>Mauricio Pochettino is warning his players against complacency following Friday's draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.</p><p>The United States appears to have landed in one of the more favorable groups for next summer's tournament in North America after the co-host was drawn alongside Paraguay and Australia in Group D. The quartet will be rounded out by a European playoff team in March 2026, with either Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, or Kosovo securing the remaining berth.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Read more: <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3412147" href="https://thescore.com/news/3412147">Full World Cup draw</a></strong></p></blockquote><p>Pochettino, though, doesn't want his players going into the supersized event thinking they can succeed with anything less than 100% effort.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We need to build our journey step by step," Pochettino said in an<a href="https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/us-head-coach-mauricio-pochettino-reacts-difficult-world-cup-draw"> interview with FOX</a> after the draw in Washington, D.C. "And we need to prepare. When we start to play - I think the 12th of June - like it's the last game, like it's the last opportunity, like it's the final of the World Cup.</p><p>"That needs to be our mindset."</p><p>The Americans, ranked No. 14 in the world, begin their World Cup against Paraguay on June 12. Pochettino's team beat the South American outfit 2-1 in a friendly match in November.</p><p>The U.S. also defeated Australia by that same score in October.</p><p>None of the four teams in the European playoff that could settle into the United States' group is ranked higher than 25th by FIFA (Turkey).</p><p>But Pochettino isn't wavering from his messaging despite the advantageous outcome at the Kennedy Center.</p><p>"My message to the players is: 'We need to compete better than Paraguay. That is going to be difficult. Australia is going to be difficult, and the team that is going to join us will be difficult,'" the head coach said.</p><p>The bench boss added that going into the tournament expecting to roll through to the knockout stage with ease is the "wrong mindset."</p><p>"We need to be strong in our belief, keep improving, thinking big, of course, and to go and to win the World Cup ... These guys are going to be really tough."</p>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 05: Mauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of United States, and Cobi Jones, FIFA legend during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Easy World Cup draw for USMNT? Pochettino says that's 'wrong mindset'

Get the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our Top Soccer News section and ...

<blockquote><p><em><strong><a href="thescore:///topsn/news">Get the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our Top Soccer News section and subscribing to push notifications</a></strong>.</em></p></blockquote><p>The 2026 FIFA World Cup is on the horizon, with teams and fans alike eager to learn of potential paths to glory. Here's everything you need to know ahead of today's draw for the expanded tournament in North America.</p><h3>Details</h3><p><strong>Time</strong>: 12 p.m. ET<br><strong>Where</strong>: Kennedy Center (Washington, D.C.)</p><h3>How to watch</h3><p><strong>Canada</strong>: TSN, RDS<br><strong>United States</strong>: FOX, Telemundo</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>FIFA will stream the event on its website, and we'll be covering every update from the draw with a live tracker.</p><h3>Teams and seeding</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/cropped_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/w220xh124_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/w320xh180_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/w640xh360_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/w768xh432_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810627/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2233066386.jpg?ts=1763570107 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">LUIS ROBAYO / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The 48 teams involved - only 42 of which are currently known, more on that soon - are divided into four pots based on the latest edition of the FIFA rankings. As tournament co-hosts, Canada, Mexico, and the United States are automatically placed in Pot 1, per standard FIFA protocol.</p><p><strong>Pot 1</strong>: Canada (co-host), Mexico (co-host), United States (co-host), Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany </p><p><strong>Pot 2</strong>: Croatia, Morocco, Colombia, Uruguay, Switzerland, Japan, Senegal, Iran, South Korea, Ecuador, Austria, Australia </p><p><strong>Pot 3</strong>: Norway, Panama, Egypt, Algeria, Scotland, Paraguay, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa </p><p><strong>Pot 4</strong>: Jordan, Cape Verde, Ghana, Curacao, Haiti, New Zealand, <em>UEFA Playoff A</em>, <em>UEFA Playoff B</em>, <em>UEFA Playoff C</em>, <em>UEFA Playoff D</em>, <em>Intercontinental Playoff 1</em>, <em>Intercontinental Playoff 2</em></p><p>Friday's draw will split the 48 teams evenly into 12 groups.</p><p>For a full breakdown of how each team has qualified thus far, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3246611" href="https://thescore.com/news/3246611">here</a>.</p><h3>Why isn't the entire field confirmed?</h3><p>Six World Cup berths remain up for grabs: Four European teams will qualify via UEFA's playoff tournaments, and two nations will earn tickets through the intercontinental playoff paths.</p><p>FIFA will use placeholders - outlined above in Pot 4 - for those spots during the draw, so the playoff teams will know their potential groups before they take the field in March 2026 to actually determine who gets those final World Cup places.</p><p>Every playoff winner is allocated to Pot 4 regardless of FIFA ranking. That means a team like Italy, despite being No. 12 in the world, could be drawn alongside another marquee nation (or two) to form a formidable quartet. That's assuming the Italians actually qualify this time, of course.</p><p>Here are the playoff participants.</p><p><strong>UEFA Playoff A</strong>: Italy, Northern Ireland, Wales, Bosnia and Herzegovina</p><p><strong>UEFA Playoff B</strong>: Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, Albania</p><p><strong>UEFA Playoff C</strong>: Turkey, Romania, Slovakia, Kosovo</p><p><strong>UEFA Playoff D</strong>: Denmark, North Macedonia, Czechia, Ireland</p><p><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 1</strong>: DR Congo, Jamaica, New Caledonia</p><p><strong>Intercontinental Playoff 2</strong>: Iraq, Bolivia, Suriname</p><h3>So, how does the draw actually work?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/cropped_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/w220xh124_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/w320xh180_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/w640xh360_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/w768xh432_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803725/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2237514681.jpg?ts=1759323815 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ira L. Black - FIFA / FIFA / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. have been preassigned groups as co-hosts. Mexico, taking part in the tournament's opening match, will be placed in Group A, Canada slots into Group B, and the Americans are in Group D.</p><p>From there, the draw begins in earnest with the other teams in Pot 1 being placed in the remaining groups from A to L. The process will then be repeated for the remaining pots in numerical order; all of Pot 2 will be drawn, then all of Pot 3 and then the entirety of Pot 4 to complete proceedings.</p><p>In a new wrinkle for this tournament, FIFA is introducing a tennis-style bracket intended to keep the world's four highest-ranked teams - Spain, Argentina, France, and England - in different quarters of the draw. Assuming all four win their respective groups, they can't meet until the semifinals.</p><h3>Are there any restrictions?</h3><p>As always, teams from the same confederation can't be placed together in the same group. UEFA is the lone exception to this rule. With 16 European nations in the tournament, it's impossible to keep them all apart. Every group will have at least one European team but no more than two.</p><p>That same condition applies to all the teams involved in the intercontinental playoffs. When those two placeholders are drawn from Pot 4, a computer will help FIFA determine any potential matchup restrictions.</p><h3>Star power</h3><p>FIFA is enlisting retired icons Tom Brady, Shaquille O'Neal, and Wayne Gretzky, along with New York Yankees superstar and reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge, to assist with the draw on stage. The procedure will be led by former England international Rio Ferdinand and broadcaster Samantha Johnson.</p><p>"Being part of the final draw for the FIFA World Cup is an incredible honor - it's the kind of global stage every athlete dreams of," Brady, co-owner of English Championship club Birmingham City, said in a statement issued by FIFA. "I'm excited to help set the path for a tournament that brings the world together like nothing else."</p><p>Model Heidi Klum will co-host the event along with actors Kevin Hart and Danny Ramirez. Nicole Scherzinger, Andrea Bocelli, and Robbie Williams will provide entertainment, with the Village People also performing "Y.M.C.A." during the festivities.</p><p>Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum, Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney, and U.S. President Donald Trump will all be in attendance.</p><h3>World Cup schedule</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/cropped_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/w220xh124_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/w320xh180_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/w640xh360_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/w768xh432_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812396/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2241911243.jpg?ts=1764780939 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elizabeth Ruiz Ruiz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The full match schedule won't be revealed on the day of the draw. </p><p>FIFA, in another departure from standard World Cup protocol, <a href="https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/updated-match-schedule-live-in-washington-dc-6-december">said</a> it will use a live broadcast Saturday at noon, 24 hours after the draw, to reveal the venues and kickoff times for all 104 tournament matches.</p><p>The governing body intends to put the games in specific locations based on time zones - of which there are multiple at play across the host nations - to "ensure the best possible conditions for all teams and spectators while, where possible, enabling fans all over the world to watch their teams play live."</p><p>Mexico's iconic Estadio Azteca will stage the opening fixture of the supersized event on June 11, 2026.</p><p>The World Cup final will be played July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.</p><ul>
<li>
<strong>Group stage</strong>: June 11-27</li>
<li>
<strong>Round of 32</strong>: June 28-July 3</li>
<li>
<strong>Round of 16</strong>: July 4-7</li>
<li>
<strong>Quarterfinals</strong>: July 8-11</li>
<li>
<strong>Semifinals</strong>: July 14-15</li>
<li>
<strong>Third-place match</strong>: July 18</li>
<li>
<strong>Final</strong>: July 19</li>
</ul><p>A total of 16 venues will be used at the biggest-ever World Cup, with 78 of the 104 games taking place in the U.S.</p><h3>Anything else to know?</h3><p>FIFA created a new award, the FIFA Peace Prize, that will be handed out during Friday's draw to "recognize exceptional actions for peace." Governing body president Gianni Infantino will personally present the award, which is widely expected to be bestowed on Trump.</p><blockquote><p><em><strong><a href="thescore:///topsn/news">Get the biggest stories from across the soccer world by visiting our Top Soccer News section and subscribing to push notifications</a></strong>.</em></p></blockquote>

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 02: The FIFA World Cup Trophy is seen outside the White House ahead of the FIFA World Cup Draw on December 02, 2025 in Washington, DC.

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Everything you need to know about 2026 World Cup draw

Frank Ragnow isn't returning to the Detroit Lions after all.  The 29-year-old center intended to ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/88853" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/88853">Frank Ragnow</a> isn't returning to the Detroit Lions after all.</p><p>The 29-year-old center intended to come out of retirement and rejoin the team, but failed his physical during a routine meeting with the club's medical staff, the Lions <a href="https://x.com/Lions/status/1994800229908955515">announced</a>.</p><p>"The medical exam revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain that will keep him from participating for the remainder of the regular season," the Lions said in a statement. "For that reason, Frank will not be rejoining the Lions."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ragnow, a four-time Pro Bowler, retired in June after spending all seven seasons of his career with the Lions. He earned a pair of second-team All-Pro nods during that time.</p><p>The 6-foot-5, 310-pound lineman was eyeing a potential return to the field for Detroit's matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 14.</p><p>The Lions, sitting 7-5 and on the outside of the NFC playoff picture after a Thanksgiving Day loss to the Green Bay Packers, were seeking help on an offensive line that's been decimated by injuries this season.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 14: Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow (77) is introduced during pregame ceremonies prior to the NFC Wild Card game between the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Rams game on Sunday January 14, 2023 at Ford Field in Detroit, MI.

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Ragnow fails physical, won't rejoin Lions this season

Canada is off the clock for 2025. With the men's team completing its final two games of the year ...

<p><em>Canada is off the clock for 2025. With the men's team completing its final two games of the year in November - a draw with Ecuador followed by a win over Venezuela - this is the perfect time to take stock of the squad and project who will make Jesse Marsch's 26-man roster for the 2026 World Cup.</em></p><p><strong>Jump to</strong>:<br><a href="#'Keepers">Goalkeepers</a> | <a href="#Defenders">Defenders</a> | <a href="#Mid">Midfielders</a> | <a href="#Forward">Forwards</a> | <a href="#XI">Projected XI</a></p><h3><a id="'Keepers" name="'Keepers">Goalkeepers</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Locks 🔒</th>
<th>On the Bubble 🫧</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dayne St. Clair</td>
<td>Owen Goodman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Maxime Crepeau</td>
<td>Tom McGill</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>James Pantemis</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>This is a straight fight between St. Clair and Crepeau for the starting job. Multiple things would have to go extremely awry for the third goalkeeper to see the pitch next summer, so Marsch's primary concern in that space should be picking someone he views as a great locker room presence. That could be any of the netminders on the bubble, really, but Goodman, the 21-year-old English-born 'keeper who was granted Canadian citizenship in October, appears to have a leg up after being part of the November squad.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/cropped_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/w220xh124_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/w320xh180_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/w640xh360_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/w768xh432_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810885/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2206683347.jpg?ts=1763737466 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Melinda Meijer/ISI Photos / ISI Photos / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The battle between St. Clair and Crepeau is one of contrasting styles. The former, recently named 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, is excellent at the most essential part of the job: making saves. Post-shot expected goals (PSxG) measures how likely a goalkeeper is to stop a given shot. Taking that figure and subtracting actual goals allowed provides a good indication of a netminder's true shot-stopping ability. By that metric, St. Clair's mark of plus-9.7 was the second best in MLS this season.</p><p>Crepeau is arguably better at every other task though. He's more assertive off his line, more assured collecting crosses, and distributes the ball better from the back. For a team that wants to play an aggressive style, pressing hard and squeezing high up the field, having a decisive goalkeeper capable of acting as a sweeper is critical. Crepeau seems like a better fit stylistically, but his club status could be a key factor. The Portland Timbers declined his 2026 contract option, making the Canadian a free agent. It's imperative that his next move involves assurances about playing time heading into the World Cup year.</p><h3><a id="Defenders" name="Defenders">Defenders</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Locks 🔒</th>
<th>On the Bubble 🫧</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Richie Laryea</td>
<td>Alfie Jones</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Derek Cornelius</td>
<td> Kamal Miller</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Niko Sigur</td>
<td>Joel Waterman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Moise Bombito*</td>
<td>Luc de Fougerolles</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alistair Johnston*</td>
<td>Zorhan Bassong</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alphonso Davies*</td>
<td>Jamie Knight-Lebel</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td></td>
<td>Sam Adekugbe*</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>*Player currently injured</em></p><p>No player boosted his stock quite like Laryea over the last couple months. The versatile Toronto FC man has been given an extended run at left-back with team captain Davies recovering from an ACL tear, and he's made the position his own. So much so, in fact, that it now seems preferable to push Davies into a more advanced wide midfield position when he does eventually return, leaving Laryea to patrol the left flank. Laryea's bounced around at club level, but he dials up his game several notches and sets the tone for the national team with his strong one-on-one defending and willingness to ruffle opponents' feathers.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/cropped_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/w220xh124_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/w320xh180_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/w640xh360_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/w768xh432_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810743/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2234755374.jpg?ts=1763737541 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">James Gill - Danehouse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sigur, who can slot in comfortably at right-back or central midfield, is the kind of versatile player that every coach adores. If Johnston's recent hamstring issues persist, the 22-year-old Hajduk Split product is more than capable of continuing in the defensive role.</p><p>If Cornelius and Bombito are fit, they're starting Canada's opening World Cup match in the heart of defense. End of. Bombito, who's quickly ascended to become the nation's top center-back, is recovering from a broken tibia sustained in October. Tajon Buchanan, who suffered the same injury in 2024 during a Copa America training session, missed five months. That timeline means Bombito <em>should</em> be back in plenty of time for the World Cup, but there are no guarantees.</p><p>That's why the recent recruitment of Middlesbrough's Alfie Jones is so big. The English-born defender, eligible to play for Canada via his late maternal grandmother, looked solid enough in his debut against Venezuela on Tuesday. He immediately jumps the queue as the next right-sided center-back in line for a starting spot if Bombito isn't 100% come June. Waterman is pretty close to being a lock, too, while it seems likely either Miller or De Fougerolles will miss out in favor of Jones.</p><h3><a id="Mid" name="Mid">Midfielders</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Locks 🔒</th>
<th>On the Bubble 🫧</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stephen Eustaquio</td>
<td>Jacob Shaffelburg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ismael Kone</td>
<td>Junior Hoilett</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tajon Buchanan</td>
<td>Liam Millar</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ali Ahmed</td>
<td>Jayden Nelson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mathieu Choiniere</td>
<td>Marcelo Flores</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan Osorio</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nathan Saliba</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Kone was sent off after scoring in Canada's win over Venezuela, but that was, quite frankly, a horrific refereeing decision, and it shouldn't take away from what was another positive step forward for the supremely talented 23-year-old. No other midfielder in the squad raises the ceiling of the team like Kone, who has all the tools to be a dominant box-to-box star and has once again started showcasing that total skill set after a dip in form. Choiniere, Osorio, and Saliba could all arguably offer a steadier presence beside Eustaquio, but Kone is undeniably the most explosive and dynamic option when at his best. He should start at the World Cup.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/cropped_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795930/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221701621.jpg?ts=1753793343 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Sebastian Frej / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ahmed, whose red card in the goalless draw with Ecuador was a more defensible call by the match official, will likely be the odd man out in the starting lineup when Davies returns. That's no fault of his own. The Vancouver Whitecaps player is on the rise, but someone has to make way when the electrifying Bayern Munich star is ready to come back.</p><p>Flores, meanwhile, is a total wild card. The 22-year-old dual national, who can operate in multiple attacking midfield roles, has been at the center of a tug-of-war between Mexico and Canada. But the Arsenal academy product took the first step toward potentially making a one-time switch from El Tri to his birth nation when he joined Canada's November camp as an unofficial "training player." Considering the squad is seeking more creativity and unpredictability in attack, Flores could be fast-tracked into the mix in 2026 if he does indeed decide to play for Marsch's team.</p><h3><a id="Forward" name="Forward">Forwards</a></h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Locks 🔒</th>
<th>On the Bubble 🫧</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Jonathan David</td>
<td>Cyle Larin</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tani Oluwaseyi</td>
<td>Theo Bair</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Promise David</td>
<td>Daniel Jebbison</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>All current indications suggest that Oluwaseyi is Marsch's preferred partner for Jonathan David, who remains an unequivocal starter despite his early-season struggles at club level with Juventus. But the position as his sidekick up front is very much up for grabs. Imposing striker and namesake Promise David continues to make a strong case for a starting position. His goal against Venezuela was his third in just eight caps, giving him as many tallies as Oluwaseyi and Larin combined in the Marsch era. If nothing else, the David-David duo should get extended minutes during the March window to learn if that can be a prolific partnership.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/cropped_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/w220xh124_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/w320xh180_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/w640xh360_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/w768xh432_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792719/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2222785926.jpg?ts=1751460538 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Omar Vega / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Where does that leave Larin? It's probably the most glaring question facing the squad at the moment.</p><p>The veteran forward, who's second all time in scoring for the national team with 30 goals in 87 appearances, is struggling. He hasn't found the net for Canada since October 2024, and he's not getting consistent minutes at club level after joining Feyenoord on loan from Mallorca; Larin's yet to record a league goal for the Dutch outfit, playing only 113 minutes in the Eredivisie.</p><p>He's not the most natural fit for Marsch's up-tempo style, but he's a key veteran leader who's been critical to helping Canada out of the doldrums and into the exciting era it finds itself now. Those intangibles matter. If Bair, Jebbison, or another forward suddenly catches fire in 2026 - which seems unlikely - and Larin continues to find himself stuck on the bench at Feyenoord, then this becomes more of a conversation. The most probable outcome remains Larin being on the World Cup squad, but for the reasons outlined, that can't be considered a <em>complete</em> lock.</p><h3>
<a id="XI" name="XI">Projected starting XI</a> 🔮</h3><p><em>Assuming everyone is fit and available, here's what we think Canada's XI will look like for its World Cup opener. </em></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/data/lineup-builder/team?players=464919:Crepeau,1055426:Johnston,1440009:Bombito,847629:Cornelius,729506:Laryea,1026135:Buchanan,816223:Eustaquio,1288119:Kone,751202:Davies,1338740:Oluwaseyi,939569:David&amp;formation=4-4-2&amp;lineupTitle=Canada&amp;lang=en 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p><em>(Courtesy: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</em></p>

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The group phase of European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup came to a dramatic end Tuesday, wit...

<p>The group phase of European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup came to a dramatic end Tuesday, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3402171" href="https://thescore.com/news/3402171">five teams</a> securing their tournament berths on the final day of action.</p><p>The results also crystallized the path forward for the nations that weren't able to win their respective groups and earn automatic spots at next summer's supersized event in North America.</p><p>The 12 runners-up in those groups will now head to the UEFA playoffs, and they'll be joined by four teams that earned a playoff berth through strong performances in the Nations League. The playoffs take place March 2026.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Italy, which failed to qualify for the last two World Cups following stunning playoff failures, will look to avoid a humiliating trifecta after finishing second behind Erling Haaland and Norway in Group I.</p><p>Denmark, Sweden, Turkey, Poland, and Ireland are among the notable sides that will partake in the last-chance playoffs alongside the desperate Italians.</p><p>A draw set for Thursday will split the 16 playoff teams into four paths, which will operate as mini four-team tournaments. After single-elimination semifinals and finals, the winners of each path will earn the last four World Cup spots allocated to Europe.</p><p>Each path will include one team from each of the following pots. Here are the pots that will be drawn from, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cx278m4gm4xo">Dale Johnson of the BBC</a>.</p><p><strong>Pot 1</strong>: Italy, Denmark, Turkey, Ukraine</p><p><strong>Pot 2</strong>: Poland, Wales, Czechia, Slovakia</p><p><strong>Pot 3</strong>: Ireland, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo</p><p><strong>Pot 4</strong>: Romania, Sweden, North Macedonia, Northern Ireland</p><p>Teams from the same pot can't play against one another. The semifinals will feature teams from Pot 1 against teams from Pot 4, while teams from Pot 2 will meet teams from Pot 3. The winners then play against one another.</p><p>The seeded teams (Pots 1 and 2) will be at home in the playoff semifinals. Home advantage for the finals will be determined by the draw.</p><p>Sweden or North Macedonia, who knocked Italy out in the last two qualifying cycles, could be grouped with the Azzurri once again.</p><p>The top three pots are based on FIFA rankings, while the teams that reached the playoffs via the Nations League are automatically placed in Pot 4. That's why Sweden, despite sitting 40th in the rankings, is down in Pot 4.</p><p>After the draw, teams will have roughly four months to prepare for their winner-take-all matches. The playoff semifinals will take place March 26, and the finals are slated for March 31.</p>

MILAN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 16: Mateo Retegui of Italy react with disappointment during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Norway at San Siro Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Milan, Italy.

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<p>Former Penn State head coach James Franklin is engaged in early talks with Virginia Tech about the Hokies' coaching vacancy, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/46974530/sources-virginia-tech-early-talks-james-franklin">Pete Thamel of ESPN</a>.</p><p>Virginia Tech continues to conduct a full search, but there's mutual interest between the two sides, sources told Thamel. A final decision on Franklin's candidacy, one way or another, is expected in the coming days.</p><p>The Hokies have been looking for a new coach since firing Brent Pry in September.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Franklin, meanwhile, has been available since he was relieved of his duties at Penn State on Oct. 12. His dismissal came after the Nittany Lions dropped their second consecutive home game - and third straight contest overall - with a 22-21 loss to Northwestern. A shocking defeat to UCLA earlier in the season was arguably the low point of Franklin's time at the helm; UCLA hadn't even held a lead at any point in the season prior to that game.</p><p>The 53-year-old Franklin joined Penn State in 2014, and won a Big Ten title in 2016 before making the College Football Playoff last season.</p><p>He left the program with a 104-45 record, but famously struggled against the nation's best teams. Penn State was 4-21 against top-10 opposition under Franklin.</p><p>Franklin was fired with six years remaining on his contract after signing a massive extension in 2021, and his buyout was <a href="https://www.on3.com/news/james-franklin-buyout-details-of-penn-state-head-coachs-contract/">reportedly</a> more than $48 million.</p><p> </p><p> </p>

STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA - OCTOBER 11: Head Coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions looks on during the fourth quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium on October 11, 2025 in State College, Pennsylvania.

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<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> isn't going anywhere.</p><p>The Argentine superstar signed a contract extension to remain with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season, the club <a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-leo-messi-to-contract-extension">announced</a> Thursday.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HE’S HOME. <a href="https://t.co/AUMJJYR5pF">pic.twitter.com/AUMJJYR5pF</a></p>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/1981375410190327923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, has become a beautiful reality ... Since I arrived in Miami, I've been very happy, so I'm truly glad to keep going here," Messi said.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was slated to become a free agent at the end of this year. Instead, the reigning MLS MVP will now be in Miami to christen the club's new stadium, Miami Freedom Park, when it opens in 2026.</p><p>"We're all really excited about the moment when we can finally play at Miami Freedom Park. We can't wait for it to be finished - to experience it from the inside, in our new home, and for the fans to enjoy it as well. It's going to be something very special to play at home in such a spectacular stadium," the veteran forward added.</p><p>Messi's new deal required several months to complete. A <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3348016" href="https://thescore.com/news/3348016">report</a> surfaced in September that Miami and the 38-year-old were finalizing an agreement, but MLS had to review the contract terms and provide final approval before it could be announced.</p><p>Messi hasn't indicated how much longer he intends to play, but given his age, this could be his last professional contract.</p><p>"To enjoy him, watching him enjoy doing the things he is doing, he's very, very competitive and he tries to translate that to the team," Miami coach Javier Mascherano said Thursday, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/lionel-messi-inter-miami-contract-63900a4036ae1ba4e622f583304a5052">Tim Reynolds of the Associated Press</a>. "The best way to help him is trying to do the right things ... he has to be comfortable on the pitch. He's comfortable when things are working in the right way.</p><p>"With him, when we do things the right way, we'll have many chances to have success."</p><p>Miami begins its quest to claim a maiden MLS Cup on Friday, when it hosts Nashville in the first game of a best-of-three opening-round playoff series.</p><p>Messi heads into the postseason in dominant form. He scored a hat-trick in the regular-season finale to claim the MLS Golden Boot, racking up 29 goals in 28 matches as Miami finished third in the Eastern Conference. He's also the favorite to be named league MVP for a second consecutive season.</p><p>The World Cup winner joined Inter Miami in July 2023. </p><p>He quickly led the club to its first trophy, spearheading a famous Leagues Cup triumph weeks after his arrival. Messi then powered the Herons to the 2024 Supporters' Shield and a new MLS record for points in a season.</p><p>Though he hasn't officially confirmed his status for next year's World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, it's expected that Messi will feature at the tournament for the sixth time as Argentina looks to defend the title it won in Qatar.</p>

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates after scoring the team's third goal during the MLS match between Inter Miami CF and D.C. United at Chase Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

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<p><em>Our monthly World Cup lookahead examines the big talking points relating to next summer's tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Who's trending up or down, what's up with the co-hosts, and how is the 48-team event shaping up? T-minus eight months, the countdown continues.</em></p><h3>Opening whistle: You need a No. 9 💪</h3><p>For the most part, the nations viewed as true World Cup contenders right now all have one thing that elevates them from the chasing pack of good, but not quite great, sides: a stud goalscorer.</p><p>The more arbitrary nature of international soccer - less training time, less structure, and less cohesion than the club game - lends itself to more randomness. These matches, and tournaments, can be decided by singular moments from great players, and having a dominant forward who can turn half-chances into goals goes a very long way to papering over any other cracks that might exist in the foundation. France, on top of its obscene collection of attacking riches, can turn to Kylian Mbappe to make magic out of thin air. Reigning champion Argentina has Julian Alvarez, who's firing on all cylinders for Atletico Madrid. England can always rely on Harry Kane, one of the sport's most unflinching sources of goals.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/cropped_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805095/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239745667.jpg?ts=1760129783 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">FRANCK FIFE / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Spain is the obvious outlier, with unorthodox auxiliary forward Mikel Merino continuing to prove that just about <em>anyone</em> can score for the Spaniards when surrounded by so much talent everywhere else on the pitch. </p><p>But, La Roja aside, a proven threat up front is an obvious differentiator. </p><p>Just about everybody else has some kind of question mark in this area. Cristiano Ronaldo is obviously an icon and still breaking records, but he'll be 41 by the time the World Cup rolls around. German hopes are high for Nick Woltemade, but he's still very raw. Belgium badly needs Romelu Lukaku to return from injury. The Netherlands started Wout Weghorst and Memphis Depay in its last two matches. Brazil has about 100 different combinations it can use up front, but all of the Selecao's very best attackers are wide forwards. O.G. Ronaldo ain't walking through that door.</p><p>All of that brings us to Erling Haaland.</p><p>Norway is all but assured of reaching its first World Cup since 1998, and in Haaland the team possesses the ultimate game-breaker. He has 21 goals in 12 games for club and country this season. Scoring is the hardest thing to do in soccer, and he makes it look frighteningly easy. Hell, he missed two penalties in this month's win over Israel and <em>still</em> scored a hat-trick in the match. I have some questions about the Norwegian backline against elite opposition, but a scoring machine up front like Haaland can make a lot of those concerns simply disappear. </p><p>Norway is capable of beating anyone next summer.</p><h3>North American notebook 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇲🇽</h3><p><em>What's the latest with the three co-hosts?</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m8nfM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m8nfM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Mauricio Pochettino, at long last, made some important breakthroughs during the October window. Getting positive results against quality opposition was a nice bonus, but, ultimately, the learnings from recent friendlies are far more beneficial than the scorelines, something the coach himself has maintained during his tenure. Using three center-backs looks like the best way forward after plenty of formation tinkering, and the eventual return of wing-back Antonee Robinson should only enhance that system. Cristian Roldan is playing himself into a starting midfield role, and Haji Wright is making a strong case to be the starting No. 9 after a brace in the comeback win over Australia. Finally, a stress-free window. Right? Well ...</p><p>For all the positives from the USMNT's two recent matches, Pochettino didn't <em>really</em> get the chance to see how his team functions with its best player. Christian Pulisic arrived in camp with an ankle issue, played only 17 minutes against Ecuador, and then sustained a low-grade hamstring tear in the first half versus Australia. If he's unavailable for the November friendlies against Paraguay and Uruguay, it'll be yet another lost opportunity - one of the final ones - to see a full-strength XI ahead of the real thing next summer.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-e9SpC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/e9SpC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Canada's mini winning streak came to an end this month, but there were still some positives to take away for Jesse Marsch after a hard-fought 1-0 loss to Australia and goalless draw against Colombia. Midfielder Ismael Kone is back on the upswing, for starters. Playing regularly in Serie A with Sassuolo, the talented 23-year-old continues to be a wild card for Canada. If he's on point, the team's ceiling rises significantly. No other midfielder in the squad can match his unique combination of ball-carrying poise, box-to-box athleticism, and creativity around the penalty area. Canada, simply put, needs Kone at his best to make real noise next summer. After a period where it looked like he might not hit those heights, this was a good step back in the right direction.</p><p>Marsch's biggest question mark right now, aside from figuring out who the best partner is up front for Jonathan David, is in defense. Moise Bombito is out for the foreseeable future after breaking his leg, and even though he's scheduled to return before the World Cup, it's impossible to predict what kind of fitness or form he'll bring to the tournament - assuming he makes it. Alistair Johnston and superstar Alphonso Davies continue to recoup from serious injuries, and while there are solid backups at Marsch's disposal, he's running out of time to get his entire first-choice backline on the pitch together before the World Cup kicks off in June.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-Zz4WV" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Zz4WV/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><p>Javier Aguirre has a big decision to make between the sticks. Having a shaky goalkeeper is a surefire way to unsettle your entire team and undermine any good work elsewhere on the pitch. Many otherwise solid teams have seen their chances of making memorable World Cup runs go up in flames because of brutal errors by their netminders. Aguirre has entrusted Luis Angel Malagon with the No. 1 job since returning to the helm of the squad, but the Club America shot-stopper had a horrific game in the 4-0 shellacking against Colombia, throwing into question whether he should be in goal when El Tri open the tournament June 11 at the Estadio Azteca.</p><p>"We've tested several young goalkeepers (at the position), Aguirre <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/javier-aguirre-mexico-goalkeepers-luis-angel-malagon-and-raul-rangel/bltd1b1656873906d80">said</a> recently. "Just because Malagon and (Raul Rangel) have been regulars doesn't mean they're untouchable. Everyone makes mistakes, and the competition remains open." Open enough for 40-year-old icon Memo Ochoa, who now plays in Cyprus, to swoop in, grab the gloves and appear in his sixth World Cup? What a twist that would be.</p><h3>Rising and falling 📈📉</h3><p><em>Which teams, players, and coaches have been trending up or down?</em></p><p><strong>📈 Playoff chaos</strong>: Get ready for fireworks in Africa. Perennial powers Cameroon and Nigeria both failed to secure automatic World Cup spots. The Indomitable Lions were beaten out by tiny island nation Cape Verde (!!) in a qualifying stunner, while the Super Eagles could only finish second in their group behind South Africa. Their hopes now hinge on a series of playoffs, where they've been drawn against DR Congo and Gabon, respectively. The eventual winner of next month's mini four-team tournament will then represent Africa in the larger inter-confederation playoffs in March. Yes, this is all very convoluted. Thanks, FIFA. When all is said and done, one of the Africa's most storied teams - maybe both! - will be watching from home. Look for Victor Osimhen, who scored a hat-trick in the 4-0 win that got Nigeria to the playoffs to begin with, to be the difference maker.</p><p><strong>📉 Swedish delight</strong>: Sweden's qualification campaign has been a disaster. Its two star strikers, Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres, are among the most valuable players in the world, but haven't scored a single goal in qualifying thus far. The Swedes fired their coach, just lost to Kosovo, and have one point from four games, good enough for last place in their group. Automatic qualification is no longer possible, meaning Sweden's only hope is a potential playoff spot - and even that's not a guarantee - to avoid being one of the featured nations on every "best team to miss the World Cup" list.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/cropped_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/w220xh124_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/w320xh180_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/w640xh360_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/w768xh432_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/806002/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2239787909.jpg?ts=1760722104 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Campanella / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>📈 Deschamps' evolution</strong>: France coach Didier Deschamps has heard all the criticisms. Dubbed a "water carrier" during his career, the ex-midfielder has come under almost constant fire for his conservative managerial style that mirrors that of his playing days. The 56-year-old, who's lifted the World Cup as both a player and manager, has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3364259" href="https://thescore.com/news/3364259">vowed</a> to "adapt" to his existing squad, which is probably the most skillful in the world. Deschamps is wary of becoming an "old fool," which means the days of playing a defensive midfielder like Blaise Matuidi on the left wing are probably over for good. (That worked in 2018, for what it's worth). Let's see if he sticks to that pledge, or reverts to type when it really matters next summer.</p><p><strong>📉 Hey Jude</strong>: Thomas Tuchel doesn't appear to be nearly as beholden to cramming star power into his lineup as some previous England managers - often to their detriment. He's seeking a cohesive unit. It's admirable, but it's also going to cause some uncomfortable conversations. Jude Bellingham, still working his way back from offseason shoulder surgery, wasn't in the October squad, with Tuchel admitting he's planning on talking to the Real Madrid midfielder about his role with the national team. Where does he best fit with Tuchel's England? It's unclear. The same is true of Trent Alexander-Arnold - a unicorn of a right-back who might not even make the team - and playmakers like Phil Foden and Jack Grealish.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 💥</h3><p><em>What else is catching the eye?</em></p><p><strong>Eyes on the draw</strong>: We're quickly closing in on the World Cup draw, which takes place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. on Dec. 5. That means teams have just one more international window - and two matches - next month to try and accumulate as many points as possible in the FIFA rankings, which are used to determine the various pots from which teams are drawn into their respective groups. This is largely now set, but there's still room for some teams around the margins to rise or fall, which could play a significant role in determining whether or not they get a favorable group.</p><p><strong>Brazil's balancing act</strong>: Carlo Ancelotti is trying to bring back Brazil's beloved "Joga Bonito" style after several years of uncharacteristic (and unpopular) workmanlike teams dragged down the excitement around the Selecao. The Italian tactician has to figure out some way to concoct a balanced XI out of a player pool that is heavy on forwards, goalkeepers, and center-backs but pretty light on elite central midfielders. Brazil's two October friendlies featured 10 total goals, with action at both ends and little semblance of control in the middle of the park. Great for the neutral, but perhaps not for team itself?</p><p><strong>Bizarro World Cup</strong>: Politics and sport are inextricably intertwined, particularly right now with FIFA under the stewardship of kingpin Gianni Infantino. Just don't expect the governing body to actually admit that or try and intervene in any meaningful way. Are you tired of hearing about President Donald Trump and his threats to strip games from select U.S. cities? FIFA has made it clear it intends to cede some decision-making duties to Gianni's best bud, so if anything, the White House will only grow in influence as the tournament nears.</p><h3>Who's in, who's out? 🎟️</h3><p><em>For a detailed breakdown of how each team has qualified so far, tap <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3246611" href="https://thescore.com/news/3246611">here</a>.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-49OlQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/49OlQ/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="290" 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,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();</script></figure><p><em>For current World Cup qualifying standings, tap <a href="thescore:///fifaq_fed/standings">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Betting odds 🤑</h3><p><em>Which teams are favored to win the tournament?</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>+400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>France</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portugal</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Germany</td>
<td>+1200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Netherlands</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States</td>
<td>+5000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Canada</td>
<td>+10000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote><p>⚽️ <a target="_blank" href="https://thescore.bet/sport/soccer/organization/international/competition/fifa-world-cup-2026?utm_source=thescore-content"><strong>Check out the full World Cup odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</strong></a></p></blockquote><h3>Key dates ahead 🗓️</h3><p><strong>Nov. 10-18</strong>: World Cup qualifying<br><strong>Dec. 5, 2025</strong>: World Cup draw<br><strong>March 23-31, 2026</strong>: Final World Cup qualifying matches<br><strong>June 1-9, 2026</strong>: Pre-tournament friendly matches<br><strong>June 11, 2026</strong>: World Cup opening match</p>

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