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    Brazil could be forced to play without FANS at World Cup 2026 as Donald Trump considers controversial new rule

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    Diletta Leotta shows off sideboob as ‘fantastic and beautiful’ DAZN host goes braless to present Club World Cup

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    World Cup stadium looks totally unrecognisable with cranes on pitch and seats ripped out

    THE iconic Estadio Banorte looks unrecognisable as work on it’s epic World Cup revamp continues.Mexico’s national stadium – where Diego Maradona scored his Hand of God goal against England in 1986 – will host the opening game of the 2026 World Cup.The iconic Estadio Banorte looks unrecognisableCredit: AFPAll near-81,000 seats have been ripped out of the arenaCredit: AFPThe ground is undergoing an £80million renovation before the 2026 World CupCredit: AFPThe previously named the Estadio Azteca is undergoing changes in order to be fully modernised for next summer’s tournament. The venue for the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals, the stadium will become the first to host three World Cups when it puts on the 2026 competition, which will be played across Mexico, the United States and Canada.With a record 48 teams, a whopping 16 venues, three countries and 16 cities are needed for the next World Cup.The stadium was renamed the Estadio Banorte as part of an £80million sponsorship deal in March.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOwner group Ollamani received an £80million loan from Banorte, a major Mexican bank that will be repaid over 12 years.One of the development project’s main goals is to maintain the historic identity of the ground, as capacity jumps from 81,000 to 90,000.New pictures show the turf completely torn up , with several cranes and trucks working to relay the dirt and mend the stands.The iconic exterior columns will be refurbished and enhanced with special lighting to highlight the architecture during night matches.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut the biggest changes are happening inside the walls, with the stands currently grey after almost every seat was ripped up.The previous VIP area has been completely demolished and rebuilt, while new stands will tower over the old ones.Birmingham give update on new £3billion stadium as they announce major developmentThe stadium closed in 2024 to begin remodelling workCredit: AFPThe Banorte Stadium (formerly known as Azteca) is hoping to open up in early 2026Credit: AFPThe changes will also see new locker rooms, referee zones, hospitality suites, a press room, and other facilities designed to meet Fifa’s highest standards.Strict Fifa sponsorship rules, however, dictates that the stadium will still be referred to as Estadio Azteca throughout next year’s World Cup.Closed since 2024 due to remodeling work, the Estadio Banorte is expected to finish construction later this year or in early 2026.The name change will mark the second in the stadium’s 58-year existence after briefly being called Estadio Guillermo Canedo in 1997.It will be the biggest stadium used for the 2026 World Cup and is scheduled to host two of Mexico’s three group matches, including the tournament’s opening game on June 11 next year.Despite the stadium’s prestige, only five of the tournament’s 104 matches will take place in Mexico City.Mexican side Club America usually play their home games there.It will be the biggest stadium used for the 2026 World Cup, and the first to host three World CupsDiego Maradona’s Hand of God goal took place at Mexico City’s iconic stadiumPele won the 1970 World Cup at the Estadio Azteca More

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    Why has Mary Earps retired from the England national team?

    MARY EARPS shocked the footballing world after announcing her retirement from the England national team.Lionesses legend Earps, 32, was the goalkeeper for England’s Euro triumph in 2022 and the World Cup final in 2023, in which she pulled off a stunning penalty save.Mary Earps was England’s Euro-winning goalkeeper in 2022Credit: PAAnd Earps saved a penalty in the World Cup final a year afterCredit: AFPThe former Manchester United ace was crowned a two-time Fifa Women’s Best Goalkeeper, and also BBC Sport Personality of the Year in 2023.But just five weeks before the start of the 2025 Euros, 53-cap star Marps announced her retirement with immediate effect.Why has Mary Earps retired from international football?Mary Earps was in a battle with Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton for the No1 spot in boss Sarina Wiegman’s starting XI for the upcoming Euros in Switzerland.Hampton was picked in England’s last three Nations League matches – against Spain and the double header against Belgium.And according to The Telegraph, Earps quit in a meeting after being told she was now back-up to Hampton.Earps said in her announcement: “I have taken the difficult decision to retire internationally. It has been the greatest honour and privilege of my life, to wear this badge, represent my country and play alongside such an incredible group of players.”I’ve spent a long time making this decision and it’s not one I’ve made lightly.”For me, ultimately this is the right time for me to step aside and give the younger generation an opportunity to thrive.Most read in Football”Winning the Euros in 2022 was the best day of my life, and I’m rooting for the girls to do it again this summer.”While in a cryptic Instagram post, Earps added: “My journey has never been the simplest, and so in true Mary fashion, this isn’t a simple goodbye – right before a major tournament.England stars celebrate historic Euro 2022 victory in dressing room after beating Germany 2-1“Nonetheless, I know this is the right decision.”There are so many dimensions to this decision, the details of which aren’t important right now, but what it boils down to is: it’s now the right moment for me to step aside.“This is a new era and a new England team, and I’m looking forward to watching them this summer. In the end, all you have is all you are – your character.”And I know that whilst this won’t make sense to some who are reading this, you can trust that I would not be doing this unless I thought it was absolutely the right thing to do, as much as it hurts.”Sarina Wiegman was questioned about Earps’ retirementCredit: GettyThe announcement sparked a furious response from Lionesses coach Wiegman.The Dutch coach said: “I had hoped that Mary would play an important role within the squad this summer, so of course I am disappointed.”Mary has been clear on her reasons why she has made the decision and it is something we need to accept.“Mary has made a huge contribution to not only the team, but the whole of English football.Read More on The Sun“We will cherish those memories and of course give Mary the tributes she deserves after the summer.”But for now the focus needs to be on the upcoming Uefa Women’s Nations League fixtures and the Euros.” More

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    Jack Grealish facing up to fact he will have to quit Manchester City if he wants to play for England at World Cup

    JACK GREALISH fears he may have to quit Manchester City to realise a World Cup dream.The out-of-favour playmaker is mulling over his next step, hoping for a potential adventure with England next summer.Jack Grealish fears he may have to quit Manchester City to realise a World Cup dreamCredit: GettyAnd it looks increasingly likely he will cut ties with City to try to secure that international spot.Grealish is desperate to travel to North America but knows remaining on the outside at the Etihad will not help convince Three Lions chief Thomas Tuchel.The forward is aware that he can form part of the German’s plans only if he is fit and performing at the highest level. He was left out of Tuchel’s latest squad announced on Friday.READ MORE IN football The Brummie has also been sidelined by club manager Pep Guardiola — and his treatment during City’s FA Cup final last week has solidified thoughts that it may be time to move on.Argentine Claudio Echeverri, 19, was brought on instead of the £100million man to make his first appearance for the club.Grealish was left kicking his heels on the sidelines.If the situation continues, any hopes he had of representing his country will disappear.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe 29-year-old has two years left to run on the six-year deal he agreed back in 2021 when he joined from Aston Villa.But his £300,000-a-week wage packet will prove a stumbling block to any move.’I will quit’ – Pep Guardiola gives Man City ultimatum over squad issue that is ‘impossible for my soul’One step would be for the player to go out on loan. In the past he has been linked with Newcastle but boss Eddie Howe has Anthony Gordon filling that left-side attacking space.Harvey Barnes, too, played there during his formative years, so that appears a non-starter.But there are likely to be other takers — potentially abroad — if Guardiola and Grealish agree it is best for him to take a break from the Etihad.Grealish is mulling over his next stepCredit: Reuters More

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    Gary Lineker’s replacement for BBC’s World Cup 2026 coverage with three names leading the race

    GARY LINEKER’S departure from the BBC leaves three names leading the race to host the 2026 World Cup coverage. The former England striker is bowing out by mutual agreement after 26 years with his final Match of the Day this Sunday.Gary Lineker is leaving the BBCCredit: GettyIt comes in the wake of an antisemitism row which saw Lineker apologise for sharing a controversial post.Lineker, 64, faced a huge backlash after he reposted a video which criticised Zionism and included an illustration of a rat.He had been due to host the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup – but now a replacement will need to be found. Here, SunSport look at the most likely candidates primed to fill Lineker’s boots. READ MORE IN football Gabby LoganLogan will be one of three favourites to replace Lineker, alongside Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates who are sharing the roles of new MOTD hosts. Presenter Logan has worked on World Cup and European Championships for the Beeb in the past – alternating with Lineker. Gabby Logan is one of three replacing MOTD host Gary LinekerCredit: AlamyMark ChapmanChapman long anchored MOTD 2 before accepting the gig to share the role as Lineker’s replacement.He has also presented coverage of World Cup and Euros for the BBC previously. Most read in FootballMark Chapman is sharing MOTD duties after Lineker’s exitCredit: GettyKelly CatesCates – daughter to Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish – is due to leave Sky Sports for the BBC when she takes over from Lineker. She has worked on World Cup and Euro competitions before on radio but not yet in a TV role.Kelly Cates will leave Sky Sports for the BBCCredit: GettyAlex ScottFormer Arsenal star Scott has carved out a successful punditry career since retiring from playing in 2017. She has worked on BBC TV before on Football Focus, MOTD and the World Cup – becoming the first female pundit to do so for the Beeb. Alex Scott has carved out a successful punditry career since retiring in 2017Credit: GettyReshmin ChowdhuryChowdhury has had a storied broadcasting career, working for the likes of Real Madrid TV, BT (now TNT) Sport and Eurosport. She has also hosted World Cup coverage for the BBC – working for BeIN Sports in the Middle East in 2022. Reshmin Chowdhury presents for TNT SportsCredit: AlamyManish BhasinBhasin first joined the BBC in 2004 and has worked on several shows including Football Focus, The Football League Show and Late Kick Off.He has also hosted MOTD 2 in the absence of Chapman before and worked on the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Euros.Manish Bhasin has worked at the BBC since 2004Credit: Getty Images – GettyLineker has been the face of BBC football since 1999.And he climbed to ladder to become the Beeb’s highest-paid presenter – despite taking a voluntary pay cut of 23% in 2020 to earn  £1.3million.But Lineker has caused controversy away from the camera for his outspoken political views. In 2023 he was temporarily removed from MOTD after likening the then-Tory government’s asylum policy to rhetoric of Nazi Germany.His co-presenters Alan Shearer and Ian Wright then boycotted the show and it went ahead without post-match analysis.Read More on The SunLineker’s most recent antisemitism row led to the ex-Barcelona star apologising on Instagram. But SunSport understands Lineker agreed to leave the BBC for good after meeting bosses last week — with a source saying he realised his position was untenable.Gary Lineker destroys Wayne Rooney’s managerial career live on BBC leaving pundits speechless More

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    Emmanuel Kunde dead at 68: Pioneering World Cup icon who scored against England at Italia ’90 passes away

    EMMANUEL KUNDE has tragically died at the age of 68.The former footballer is best remembered for scoring against England in the 1990 World Cup.Emmanuel Kunde has sadly diedCredit: RexHe scored against England in the 1990 World Cup quarter-finalsCredit: PAKunde jostled with Paul Gascoigne for the ballCredit: PASamuel Eto’o has paid tribute to the CameroonianCredit: APHis death was confirmed by the Cameroonian football federation.A statement read: “His death constitutes a huge loss for Cameroonian football.”His most famous career moment came when he netted the winning penalty in the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations final against Nigeria.He also won the continental cup four years earlier and came on as a late substitute in the 3-1 win over Nigeria again in the final.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe also scored a penalty against England in the 3-2 defeat in the quarter-finals of Italia ’90.Former Chelsea and Everton striker has shared an emotional tribute to Kunde on Instagram.He wrote: “I’m just learning of the demise of the Elder Emmanuel Jérôme Kundé, an iconic figure in Cameroonian football, who died at the age of 68.”Oh the sadness! It is a certain value of our heritage that is thus cruelly taken away from us.Most read in Football”I keep with him the memory of a discreet and affectionate man, a figure of moderation and consideration.”He was a fantastic footballer, the control tower in the midfield, the defensive wall the opponent crashed into but also a great playmaker when the team had possession.”Individually, it was a fine passer and an artifact with phenomenal power and goldsmith precision.”In fifteen years as a national team (127 selections), he took part in the two legendary epics of the Indomitable Lions in the World Cup (1982 and 1990), twice winner of the CAN (1984 and 1988).”His long career brought him to France (Laval, Reims) and Gabon (US Bitam) as a coach, even though it is in the Canon sportif de Yaoundé that his name and legend will remain associated forever, as a player and as a coach.”Praying for the great football family to keep him in your thoughts and my deepest condolences to his nuclear family.”Kunde started his playing career at the Mbankomo Club in Cameroon.He then played for the likes of Tempête de Nanga-Eboko and Canon Yaounde before joining French sides Laval and Reims.Read More on The SunHe retired in 1992, back in Cameroon after two years with Olympic Mvolye.In total, he played 102 times for Cameroon’s national team between 1979 and 1992 and scored 17 goals. More

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    ‘It’s time’ – England could host World Cup after seven decades as Fifa chief tells FA to ‘seriously think’ about it

    ENGLAND could host the World Cup after a SEVEN-DECADE wait following a top Fifa figure’s encouragement to bid for the tournament.The nation hasn’t bid for the tournament since the controversial 2010 vote for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups in Russia and Qatar, in which it was alleged that Fifa members were bribed to vote for the host countries.England hasn’t hosted the World Cup since lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy in 1966Credit: GETTYThe FA failed to land the 2018 or 2022 World CupsCredit: GETTYFifa Vice-President Victor Montagliani believes it’s time the tournament returns to Old BlightyCredit: GETTYEngland hasn’t staged a World Cup since the historic 1966 tournament, which saw Sir Alf Ramsey’s troops win the competition on home soil.And Fifa vice-president Victor Montagliani believes it’s high time the tournament returns to these shores.During an interview with The Times, he said: “I can’t see why, not just England but the United Kingdom shouldn’t be hosting the World Cup.”I think it would be a fantastic World Cup and I think they should seriously think of putting their foot forward to host.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”We all know what the game means in the UK and I think it’s time.”The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, while the 2030 tournament set to be split across Spain, Portugal, Morocco and South America.Saudi Arabia will stage the 2034 tournament having run unopposed for the hosting rights.The Women’s World Cup will take place in the UK in 2035 and could be a potential catalyst for the men’s tournament to return to these shores in 2038 or 2042.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSEngland could bid to host the 2038 or 2042 World CupsCredit: GettySpeaking on Fifa’s rotation model, Montagliani said: “I support what we have done in recent history, I think it’s the only way.”Now it shouldn’t be the Fifa president’s decision alone, he has a board, he has a council.Major change to World Cup final confirmed by Fifa chief Gianni Infantino with Coldplay to perform half-time show “But I think the old way we used to do it where people just waste their money and then all these shenanigans happen.That’s ridiculous. Let’s get away from that.“Let’s become a proper business. Let’s have an event management strategy so that we’re properly rotating it, everybody gets a crack at it.“The reality is that the World Cup generates 80 to 90 per cent of Fifa’s income, which then sends 80 per cent of that back to its members for the development of football.”And if Fifa doesn’t generate that money there is a significant number of the 211 countries that do not have the funds to develop football.”Next year’s North American World Cup will be the first tournament to include 48 teams.But South American footie chiefs have called for future tournaments to be expanded to an incredible 64 TEAMS, a total Montagliani believes would devalue the prestige which comes with qualifying for the competitionHe said: “Sixty-four teams is just too much in my opinion. We still haven’t kicked the ball for 48 teams, although I think we’ll be fine.Read More on The Sun“We’re OK where we are and I’m not comfortable with any more — scarcity is still important.”It still needs to be difficult to get to a World Cup and I think at 48 you’re still going to have some nations you may think should be at a World Cup but fail to qualify.” More