World Cup

Subterms

    Latest story

    213 Shares59 Views

    Fifa ‘sincerely regret’ the ‘unacceptable’ error made in World Cup qualifying draw as they release full statement

    by

    FIFA chiefs have issued a grovelling apology to the Ukrainian FA for an “unacceptable” error they “sincerely regret” during the World Cup qualifying draw.The Eastern European country ended up in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and either France or Croatia.Fifa have apologised for a mistake regarding Ukraine during the World Cup qualifying drawCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCUkraine was illegally invaded by Russia in 2022Credit: GettyBut there was a controversial moment during the draw when Fifa attempted to depict countries which could not cross borders to face each other.Spain vs Gibraltar was cited as one example, with Kosovo versus either Serbia or Bosnia & Herzegovina another.A map with shaded areas revealed which nations fell into the category.But Ukrainian chiefs were left outraged when their country was flagged for any potential clash with Belarus.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe dark patch showed Ukraine without the territory of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.The Black Sea peninsula is still officially classed as an administrative division of Ukraine.But Russia now occupies Crimea and has several military air bases stationed there following 2022’s illegal invasion of the mainland.Ukraine’s FA wrote a furious letter to Fifa expressing their anger over the map.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd football’s governing body have now responded, expressing their “sincere regret” over the decision.Elkhan Mammadov, Chief Member Association Officer, said: “We acknowledge receipt of your letter and would like to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.England manager Thomas Tuchel reacts to Three Lions’ World Cup 2026 qualifying drawWorld Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar“We deeply respect the concerns raised and the sensitivity of the issue at hand.“The infographic in question was developed by an external third-party service provider.“Upon recognising the issue, we have taken immediate steps to address the situation, including working to have the image removed from circulation.“Additionally, we are conducting an internal review to ensure such oversights do not recur in the future.“We fully understand the delicate sensitivity of this matter and while the incident was unintentional, we sincerely regret any concern it may have caused and appreciate your understand as we work to address this situation responsibly.”The Ukrainian FA’s initial letter had stated: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024.”The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable.”It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion on his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukrainian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time. More

    More stories

    • 175 Shares79 Views

      in Soccer

      Fuming Ukrainian FA blast Fifa over ‘unacceptable error’ during World Cup 2026 qualifying draw

      by

      THE Ukrainian FA sent a furious letter to Fifa and Uefa complaining about an “unacceptable error” during the World Cup qualifying draw. Ukraine learnt who they will face to try and book their spot at the 2026 tournament in North America. Ukraine hit out at Fifa and Uefa following an ‘unacceptable error’Credit: ReutersThe World Cup qualifying draw map excluded Crimea from UkraineCredit: X @KarpatyLvivFCHowever, the country was left apoplectic following a map graphic depicting countries which could not cross borders to face each other – such as Ukraine and Belarus, Spain and Gibraltar and Kosovo versus either Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia.On it, though, the shaded Ukrainian region excluded the territory of Crimea.The peninsula in the Black Sea – officially the Autonomous Republic of Crimea – is classed as an administrative division of Ukraine after previously being annexed by Russia in 2014.Russia occupy the territory and have several military air bases stationed there during the war between the two nations, which has now claimed the lives or injured a million people since Vladimir Putin ordered the illegal invasion in February 2022. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUkraine, though, continue to view the region as part of their country so they were understandably indignant following Friday’s draw.And the Ukrainian Association of Football wrote to Fifa Secretary General Matthias Grafstrom and Uefa Secretary General Theodore Theodoridis to express their anger. The raging letter said: “We are writing to express our deep concern regarding the infographic map of Europe shown during the TV broadcast of the European Qualifiers draw for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on December 13, 2024. “The map, which indicated the countries unable to cross borders, highlighted the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.Most read in Football”Considering several official decisions and resolutions passed by the Fifa Council and the Uefa Executive Committee since 2014, which addressed the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of football stakeholders in our country from the aggressive policies of the Russian terrorist state, including regarding the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, we emphasise that the version of the map presented by Fifa during the global broadcast to a multi-million audience is unacceptable. “It appears as an inconsistent stance by Fifa and Uefa on this crucial issue, especially in light of the ongoing destructive invasion initiated by Russia against Ukraine in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe.”Russia’s invasion of Ukraine timelineVLADIMIR Putin waged a murderous invasion ok his neighbouring country in 2022, following years of heated Russo-Ukranian tensions.24 February 2022: Russia launches a full-scale invasion of Ukraine with an invasion of the eastern territory of Donbas. Explosions were also reported in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa25 February 2022: Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky and his team posted a video following rumours they had fled the country.16 March 2022: Russia blitzed Mariupol’s Drama Theater where around 1,300 civilians were sheltering.1 September 2022: Russian forces flee the eastern Kharkiv region following a strong Ukrainian counteroffensive.21 September 2022: Putin announced a controversial partial mobilization to draft soldiers, the country’s first since World War Two.12 November 2022: The city of Kherson, in the south of Ukraine, was liberated after an eight-month occupation.21 December 2022: Zelensky travels to Washington D.C. to meet President Joe Biden and address Congress.25 January 2023: Germany approves sending tanks to Ukraine20 February 2023: US President Joe Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv for the first time since the invasion began.23 June 2023: Russian mercenaries stage a mutiny attempt with the paramilitary organization Wagner.24 June 2023: The shortlived Wagner Group march to Moscow and the coup attempt ends.27 August 2023: Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash.8 February 2024: Zelensky replaces his top army leader Gen. Valerii Zaluzhnyi.20 April 2024: US House of Representatives approves a huge foreign aid package for Ukraine.6 August 2024: Ukrainian forces launched a surprise incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.19 November 2024: Ukraine fires several long-range US-supplied missiles into Russia for the first time.21 November 2024: Putin’s forces fire new ballistic missiles into Ukraine for the first time.SunSport has contacted Fifa for comment.  Ukraine were pitted in Group D alongside Iceland, Azerbaijan and the winners of the two-legged France vs Croatia Nations League quarter-final.Thomas Tuchel’s England, meanwhile, got Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra in a five-team Group K. World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar More

    • 263 Shares58 Views

      in Soccer

      England forced to find new stadium for World Cup 2026 qualifying clash against Andorra as they are kicked out of Wembley

      by

      ENGLAND are set to have to find a new venue for their home World Cup qualifier against Andorra.The Three Lions learned their 2026 World Cup qualifying opponents during yesterday’s draw in Zurich.England are set to have to find a new home for their date with AndorraCredit: AFPThomas Tuchel attended yesterday’s draw in ZurichCredit: AFPThomas Tuchel will begin his England reign on March 21 with a Wembley assignment against Albania.England will then host Latvia three days later, before travelling to Andorra in June.They are then scheduled to host Andorra on September 6, although they will likely have to do so away from Wembley.That’s because the national stadium is currently booked to host a series of Coldplay concerts around that night.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe British band have 10 Wembley shows scheduled between August 22 and September 8.These include dates on September 4 and 7, creating a logistical nightmare if England were to play there in between.The Three Lions have played some home matches away from Wembley in recent years.In June they hosted a pre-Euro 2024 friendly against Bosnia & Herzegovina at Newcastle’s St James’ Park.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSColdplay are set to play 10 concerts at Wembley Stadium next summerCredit: GettyWhile in June 2023 they defeated North Macedonia 7-0 at Manchester United’s Old Trafford.Molineux and the Riverside have both also been used since 2021.The Sun’s Charlie Wyett reacts to World Cup 2026 qualifying draw as Thomas Tuchel’s England are placed in group full of controversyThree days after the home match vs Andorra, England will travel to Serbia.The following month they will take on Latvia away from home, before concluding their campaign by hosting Serbia and travelling to Albania in November 2025.Quizzed on yesterday’s draw, Tuchel said: “I have huge respect for Serbia and Albania.”They can always surprise they have a strong history of technical football, of emotional players and groups.’A NEW EXPERIENCE'”They have two very famous ex-players as coaches so we should be very aware of that.”Latvia… England never played them so this is a new experience for all of us.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We are huge favourites and we have to qualify, this is where all the focus goes.”There can’t be any other approach than take it seriously and with respect and make it happen before we can dream the dream.” More

    • 200 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      Thomas Tuchel’s first England game confirmed with new boss handed Wembley World Cup double-header in March

      by

      THOMAS TUCHEL’S first game as England manager has been revealed.The Three Lions’ 2026 World Cup qualifying group sees them come up against Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra.Thomas Tuchel’s first game as England boss has been revealedCredit: GettyTuchel was at today’s draw but does not officially start as England boss until January.A date has been set for his first game in charge, with the German’s reign kicking-off on Friday night at Wembley against Albania on March 21.Three days later, there is another home clash for him versus Latvia.Tuchel’s third match in charge on June 7 is away to Andorra.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey will then play a friendly afterwards in the same international window against an unnamed opponent.Three Lions chiefs then have a venue headache to deal with as Andorra come to England for the return fixture on September 6.Wembley Stadium is seemingly out of action that night due to Coldplay concerts on the days either side, meaning the match will have to be played elsewhere.England then take on Serbia on September 9.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEngland’s World Cup qualifying datesAlbania (H) – March 21Latvia (H) – March 24Andorra (A) – June 7 Andorra (H) – September 6Serbia (A) – September 9Latvia (A) – October 14Serbia (H) – November 13Albania (A) – November 16Another friendly follows before Lavia away on October 14.Then the qualification campaign finally comes to an end with a double-header against Serbia at home on November 13 and Albania away on November 16.England manager Thomas Tuchel reacts to Three Lions’ World Cup 2026 qualifying drawTuchel’s squad could be very different to the ones picked by Gareth Southgate and Lee Carsley as the ex-Chelsea boss has promised a fresh start to all players, including the self-exiled Ben White.The new manager said today: “It should be a clean start and a clear narrative. It starts from January. “I will be in the stadiums from January. The players should just know, ‘okay, the boss is there from January’.“Then I will of course try to speak to them, but also be respectful to the schedule that they have, because the schedule is busy in January, especially in the Premier League.”Asked about White, Tuchel said: “Yes. I will reach out to him.”World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar More

    • 238 Shares88 Views

      in Soccer

      Thomas Tuchel tells England fans not to get used to his outfit as he vows to ditch ‘nice’ look

      by

      NEW England manager Thomas Tuchel ditched his trademark tracksuit for a shirt and tie ahead of today’s World Cup qualifying draw.But the 51-year-old has told fans he will return to his old ways before his first match in charge.Thomas Tuchel ditched his tracksuit for a shirt and tie ahead of Friday’s World Cup qualifying drawCredit: AFPThe German has told fans he will wear clothes that make him comfortable while in the dugoutCredit: AFPTuchel, who will officially take charge of the Three Lions on January 1, was in Zurich this morning to find out who his new team will face in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.England were drawn against Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra ahead of next year’s campaign, which will kick off in March.After learning his team’s fate, Tuchel said: “I have huge respect for Serbia and Albania.”They can always surprise they have a strong history of technical football, of emotional players and groups.READ MORE ON ENGLAND”They have two very famous ex-players as coaches so we should be very aware of that.”Latvia… England never played them so this is a new experience for all of us.”We are huge favourites and we have to qualify, this is where all the focus goes. There can’t be any other approach than take it seriously and with respect and make it happen before we can dream the dream.”Tuchel’s attire caught the attention of his German compatriot, Rudi Voller, at the event.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSEngland’s qualifying groupThe former Chelsea boss, who favours a tracksuit top and bottoms as well as a baseball cap and trainers while in the dugout, donned a suit and tie at the FIFA event.Asked if he will consider wearing the smart attire for England, and if he would wear a tie much like his predecessor Gareth Southgate, the German said: “Things change. An FA tie as well.The Sun’s Charlie Wyett reacts to World Cup 2026 qualifying draw as Thomas Tuchel’s England are placed in group full of controversy”It feels comfortable. It will not be my look on the sidelines. I need a bit more freedom to move around but for the occasion it’s a nice look.”You will see me stadiums from January. Work starts from the signature. Today was the kick off for the World Cup campaign so it is obvious we have to be there.”Tuchel is on a mission to prove himself as England manager after accepting his appointment has not been universally popular.The ex-Bayern Munch manager, aware that many fans believe an Englishman should have been appointed to succeed Southgate, said: “There’s no hard feelings for that. Of course, it will always be mixed.”So now I have to prove myself to the people who are maybe a bit concerned. I must prove to them how much it means to me and that it’s a dream job for me that I will give my everything – I’m the man for the job.”England will face Serbia for only the second time with the only other match coming at Euro 2024 when Jude Bellingham scored the winner.Serbia were fined £25,000 for racist abuse during that game and other matches at the tournament so there will be genuine concerns over potential problems when the team heads to Belgrade.England’s under-21s also suffered horrific racial abuse when they played in the country in 2012 with Danny Rose attacked.The Three Lions have never played 140-ranked Latvia before while they faced Albania and Andorra in the last set of World Cup qualifiers.Tuchel added: “A difficult group is my first impression. Serbia and Albania, for me, are always known for good individual players and emotional groups, emotional fans, so they are difficult opponents.“It is the first time England play Latvia, so it is a new experience for all of us and, of course, we are favourites against Andorra, but we need to prove it. We have now eight matches to play, whatever comes we want to be ready for it.”The draw was incredibly complicated and England could have been put in a group of four which would have meant no qualifiers until September.READ MORE SUN STORIESTuchel added: “It was very likely that we got a group five. I want to adapt to everything that is coming, not complain, not look for excuses and not expect or wish for something.“The most important thing is we focus fully on the qualification and we take it seriously and give it our respect and prove a point that we want to go to the USA.”Tuchel suggested he will have a different style to Gareth Southgate in the dugoutCredit: The Times More

    • 225 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      World Cup 2026 qualifying draw in full as Thomas Tuchel’s England are placed in group full of controversy

      by

      ENGLAND have discovered who they will face in order to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.The Three Lions, who will be led into the tournament by new German boss Thomas Tuchel, were among the top seeds alongside France and Spain.England and Thomas Tuchel have learned who they will face in World Cup qualifyingCredit: AFPTuchel was in attendance in Zurich to discover England’s fateFormer Arsenal star Robert Pires drew England into Group KWith Tuchel watching on at the draw in Zurich, England discovered they were in Group K and their first opponent was Serbia from pot two.Pot three saw them draw Albania, while the teams out of pot four and five were Latvia and Andorra respectively.Serbia and Albania have controversial history behind them, with Uefa slapping Albanian forward Mirlind Daku with a two-game ban for anti-Serbian chants earlier this year.Uefa also fined Serbia for trying to burn an Albanian flag.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSerbia even threatened to QUIT Euro 2024 over chants directed at them by Albania and Croatia.Having pitted them against each other in Group K, there will be fears of fireworks in England’s group.Elsewhere, Wales landed in Group J with Belgium, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein.Scotland were put in Group C against the Uefa Nations League losing quarter-finalist between Portugal and Denmark, as well as Greece and Belarus.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNorthern Ireland were pit against the winner of Germany vs Italy, as well as Slovakia and Luxembourg in Group A.England’s first games during this campaign will come over the spring international break on March 21-25.Among England’s opponents, Serbia will serve as the toughest test for Tuchel.Thomas Tuchel England Press ConferenceThe Three Lions last faced the team led by Alexander Mitrovic at the Euros during the summer. England prevailed 1-0 in a dour match, with Jude Bellingham scoring the only goal after 13 minutes.Albania and Andorra were in England’s most recent World Cup qualification group and proved easy opponents.Gareth Southgate’s side beat Albania 5-0 at Wembley and 2-0 away, whil Andorra put up even less opposition, with England winning 4-0 at home and 5-0 away.The Three Lions have never played Latvia.World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, GibraltarFans were over the moon at the draw, judging by reactions on X.One wrote: “Tuchel could literally play himself and three lions and still win the group.”Another said: “Serbia is the only challenging opponent, the rest should be easy.”And another wrote: “With Tuchel’s tactics and style of football we should smash all these.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe actual World Cup will start on June 11 2026 with Mexico City hosting the opener, while New Jersey will host the final on July 19 following a record 39 day tournament.The World Cup’s new format will see 12 four-team groups and will also feature a last-32 knockout round for the first time to accommodate the expansion to 48 teams.Thomas Tuchel on a missionFrom Charlie Wyett in ZurichTHOMAS TUCHEL is on a mission to prove himself as England manager after accepting his appointment has not been universally popular.The Three Lions were today given an easy World Cup 2026 qualifying group as they were pitted against Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra.Tuchel, aware that many fans believe an Englishman should have been appointed to succeed Gareth Southgate, said: “There’s no hard feelings for that. Of course, it will always be mixed.“So now I have to prove myself to the people who are maybe a bit concerned. I must prove to them how much it means to me and that it’s a dream job for me that I will give my everything – I’m the man for the job.”England, whose qualifiers start in March, will face Serbia for only the second time with the only other match coming at Euro 2024 when Jude Bellingham scored the winner. Serbia were fined £25,000 for racist abuse during that game and other matches at the tournament so there will be genuine concerns over potential problems when the team heads to Belgrade. England’s Under-21s also suffered horrific racial abuse when they played in the country in 2012 with Danny Rose attacked.England have never played 140-ranked Latvia before while they faced Albania and Andorra in the last set of World Cup qualifiers.Tuchel, who officially starts work on January 1, added: “A difficult group is my first impression. Serbia and Albania, for me, are always known for good individual players and emotional groups, emotional fans, so they are difficult opponents.“It is the first time England play Latvia, so it is a new experience for all of us and, of course, we are favourites against Andorra, but we need to prove it. We have now eight matches to play, whatever comes we want to be ready for it.”The draw was incredibly complicated and England could have been put in a group of four which would have meant no qualifiers until September.Tuchel added: “It was very likely that we got a group five. I want to adapt to everything that is coming, not complain, not look for excuses and not expect or wish for something.“The most important thing is we focus fully on the qualification and we take it seriously and give it our respect and prove a point that we want to go to the USA.”How will the 2026 World Cup work?By Martin LiptonThe 2026 World Cup will be something of a logistical nightmare.Three countries, not one city. In 16 venues, split across four time zones and thousands of miles — rather than the distance between Selhurst Park and Kenilworth Road.With 48 teams, as opposed to the 32 that has been the norm since 1998. More from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Even, for the first time, a guaranteed slot for Oceania.And, almost certainly, a record 104 MATCHES and 33 days as well.It will be 12 groups of four but the real issues are over the next stage.The easiest way would be the top two in each group, plus the eight best third-place teams, reaching the final 32 and eight games, instead of seven, required to win.Read all about it here. More

    • 200 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      World Cup 2026 draw LIVE: England qualifying campaign CONFIRMED as Thomas Tuchel learns Group K opponents

      by

      THOMAS TUCHEL now knows EXACTLY who England will be facing during qualification for the 2026 World Cup.Tuchel will officially begin his role as the new head of the England on January 1, but was in attendance to see his side drawn into Group K.The draw took place at Fifa HQ in Zurich, Switzerland, with nations placed into 12 groups of four and five teams.As they were drawn into a group of five teams, England will start their campaign in March 2025 – those drawn in a group of four start in September 2025.FREE live stream: Fifa YouTube / BBC Sport websiteTV channel: Not available on UK TVFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from the World Cup 2026 qualifying draw with our live blog below…That’s all folks!Here’s the World Cup qualifying draw in full as England face the likes of Serbia in Group K:Copy linkCopiedEngland v AndorraWorld ranking: 171And the final team in Group K is Andorra.And that is completely understandable as their nation is made up of just over 80,000 people.England HAVE played the independent principality before and you might not be surprised to hear that it hasn’t gone too well for Andorra.England have won all SIX previous meetings with an aggregate score of 25-0…Copy linkCopiedEngland vs LatviaWorld ranking: 140Latvia are viewed by Fifa as the 140th-best national team in the world.This is only eight places higher than their lowest-ever ranking of 148 in September 2017.England have NEVER played Latvia, so they will have the chance to add another feather to their well-stocked cap.Copy linkCopiedEngland v AlbaniaWorld ranking: 65Albania finished bottom of Group B at Euro 2024 but had, by far, the hardest group alongside winners Spain, Italy and Croatia.And they were not heavily beaten in any of those three matches, losing by the odd goal against Spain and Italy either side of snatching a point against Croatia.They will be no pushover in 2026 World Cup qualifying.That said, England have won all six previous meetings against Albania with an aggregate score of 19-1.Copy linkCopiedEngland’s opponents analysed: SerbiaWorld ranking: 32Serbia are England’s greatest competitor for the top spot in Group K having been drawn from Pot 2.They have a squad packed with current and former Premier League players and it is a team that England know well having beaten them 1-0 at Euro 2024 earlier this year.They put up a stern fight in that game, though, with Jude Bellingham’s 13th-minute header being the only goal of the game.Copy linkCopiedEngland’s World Cup qualifying draw in fullCopy linkCopiedThe story of the World Cup qualifying draw?Serbia and Albania have been drawn together into England’s Group K.But the two nations have controversial history behind them,.Uefa slapped Albanian forward Mirlind Daku with a two-game ban for anti-Serbian chants at Euro 2024.Uefa also fined Serbia for trying to burn an Albanian flag.No geopolitical restrictions were put in place before the draw for those two nations.But for political reasons, Ukraine and Belarus cannot be in the same group, and neither can Gibraltar and Spain. Kosovo must be kept apart from Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.Copy linkCopiedBut Scotland given grievance period to prepareAs the Scots have been drawn in to a group of four, they won’t begin qualifying matches until September.That’s because Portugal play Denmark the Nations League quarter-finals in March, with the loser being placed into Group C.The winner goes into Group F to face Hungary, Republic of Ireland, Armenia.The other confirmed teams in Scotland’s group are Greece and Belarus.Copy linkCopiedWhen will England play their first qualifying game?England’s first games during this campaign will come over the spring international break on March 21-25.Although the draw is pleasing, Tuchel won’t be eased into his game as England boss with a friendly.No. His first game will count. It’s a must win.The fixture list hasn’t been confirmed yet. But it will be one of Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra.Copy linkCopiedTuchel learns Three Lions path to World Cup 2026England have been a favourable draw as they bid to confirm a place at the next World Cup.Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra stand between England and qualification for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.Copy linkCopiedThe groups in full…The either/ors in the list below are due to the Nations League quarter-finals.Group A: Winner of Germany/Italy, Slovakia, NORTHERN IRELAND,LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser of Portugal/Denmark, Greece, SCOTLAND,BelarusGroup D: Winner of France/Croatia, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner of Spain/Netherlands, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner of Portugal/Denmark, Hungary, Republic of Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser of Spain/Netherlands, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser of Germany/Italy, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, WALES, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechtensteinGroup K: ENGLAND, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser of France/Croatia, Czech Republic, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, GibraltarCopy linkCopiedENGLAND’S GROUP K IS COMPLETEAndorra have a travel restriction with Kazakhstan so they join England, Serbia, Albania and Latvia in Group K.Happy, England fans?Copy linkCopiedPot 5 results…Moldova join Group I Malta join Group GSan Marino join Group HAndorra join England in Group KGibraltar join in Group LLiechtenstein join Wales, Belgium, North Macedonia and Kazakhstan in Group J.Copy linkCopiedSmallest Pot 5 left to go…MoldovaMaltaAndorraGibraltarLiechtensteinSan MarinoCopy linkCopiedEngland are joined by LatviaReminder, if I didn’t say so before, England are a group of five.So their qualifying matches begin in March or June.Group K: ENGLAND, Serbia, Albania, Latvia…Copy linkCopiedWales face trip to Asian border as Kazakhstan drawn into Group JGroup J: Belgium, WALES, North MacedoniaCopy linkCopiedBulgaria in Group EGroup E: Winner of Spain/Netherlands, Turkey, GeorgiaCopy linkCopiedEstonia join Group I (group of five)Group I: Loser of Germany/Italy, Norway, IsraelCopy linkCopiedCyprus join Group HGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia-HerzegovinaCopy linkCopiedLithuania join Group G (five teams)Group G: Loser of Spain/Netherlands, Poland, FinlandCopy linkCopiedAzerbaijan is the final name drawn into Group DGroup D: Winner of France/Croatia, Ukraine, IcelandCopy linkCopiedBelarus complete Group CGroup C: Loser of Portugal/Denmark, Greece, SCOTLANDCopy linkCopiedKosovo complete Group BGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, SloveniaCopy linkCopiedLuxembourg complete Group AGroup A: Winner of Germany/Italy, Slovakia, NORTHERN IRELANDCopy linkCopiedNames drawn from Pot 4Some restrictions here now… travel and geopolitical ones.Here are the teams… which one to you fancy for England?Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Kosovo, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Cyprus, Faroe Islands, Latvia, LithuaniaCopy linkCopied More

    • 263 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans fume ‘it’s a shambles’ as England’s feed for World Cup 2026 qualifying draw CUTS OUT just as Tuchel’s team picked

      by

      ENGLAND fans were left fuming as the Three Lions’ live feed of the World Cup 2026 qualifying draw cut out.Thomas Tuchel’s side learned their fate at the draw in Zurich.England learned their fate at the draw in ZurichAt the crucial moment, the screen went blankThomas Tuchel travelled to Zurich for the drawCredit: APProceedings were streamed live on England’s official YouTube channel.But the stream was struck by technical difficulties.Incredibly, it cut out as the Three Lions were drawn.When pictures returned, England had been drawn into Group K.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans following along in the comments section were not happy.One fumed: “A shambles as usual. When the sound AND picture go how do we know what’s going on here!”While a second grumbled: “ffs just as England got pulled.”And a third moaned: “As if it went off when we got pulled.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe revamped 48-team tournament is set to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico during the summer of 2026.Fifty-four Uefa nations entered the draw, with six groups of four and six groups of five drawn.Lee Carsley hailed for ‘best football England have ever played’ as fans say ‘can we rip up Tuchel’s contract-‘England being plucked into Group K means that Tuchel’s men will be in a group of five.All group winners will qualify automatically for the World Cup finals, while the 12 runners-up will join four teams from the Nations League in the play-offs.England have been joined in Group K by Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra.World Cup qualifying draw in fullGroup A: Winner GER/ITA, Slovakia, Northern Ireland, LuxembourgGroup B: Switzerland, Sweden, Slovenia, KosovoGroup C: Loser POR/DEN, Greece, Scotland, BelarusGroup D: Winner FRA/CRO, Ukraine, Iceland, AzerbaijanGroup E: Winner SPA/NED, Turkey, Georgia, BulgariaGroup F: Winner POR/DEN, Hungary, Ireland, ArmeniaGroup G: Loser SPA/NED, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, MaltaGroup H: Austria, Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, San MarinoGroup I: Loser GER/ITA, Norway, Israel, Estonia, MoldovaGroup J: Belgium, Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, LiechensteinGroup K: England, Serbia, Albania, Latvia, AndorraGroup L: Loser FRA/CRO, Czechia, Montenegro, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar More

    • 200 Shares88 Views

      in Soccer

      How to watch World Cup 2026 qualifying draw for FREE live and who can England face?

      by

      THE World Cup 2026 qualifying draw is taking place TODAY – and you can watch it for FREE.The draw – which is for the European section of qualification – will not be broadcast live in the UK but that does not mean that England fans will miss any of the action.New England manager is expected to attend the drawSunSport will live blog the draw as it happens but anyone with a decent internet connection will also be able to stream it.New England boss Thomas Tuchel – who officially starts his new role on January 1 – will be watching with a keen eye.Here’s how to follow the 54-team draw from Fifa HQ in Zurich, Switzerland, as it happens.Read More on World Cup 2026How can I watch the World Cup 2026 qualifying draw for FREE?In the UK, the draw will be shown for free on England’s own YouTube channel, the BBC Sport website and the Fifa website.Anyone can watch on the YouTube channel, although to watch on the BBC website you will need to have a TV licence.What time is the World Cup 2026 qualifying draw?The 2026 World Cup qualification draw takes place on Friday, December 13 at approximately 11am GMT (12pm CET).However, Fifa usually like to also spend a while introducing guests and giving speeches so names may not be pulled out of the pot until closer to 11.30am GMT.Most read in SportSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024What is the format for the World Cup 2026 qualifying draw?There are 54 teams in the European section of the draw with Russia suspended from entering the competition due to the invasion of Ukraine.Teams are seeded into five pots, with pots one to four containing 12 teams and pot five with six teams.They will be drawn into 12 groups – six groups of four (A-F) and six groups of five (G-L)Those drawn in the five-team groups will begin their qualification campaigns in March 2025, while those in four-team groups will start their campaign in September 2025.Because of the Nations League – which also plays matches in March – five-team groups can only contain one team participating in those March matches.The other four teams will then play among themselves during that international break.The draw will start with Pot 1 and finish with Pot 5 – a team will be drawn and assigned to the first available group. There are certain restrictions that will be applied to the draw, firstly due to the Nations League, which means certain teams cannot be drawn into certain groups due to scheduling conflicts.Other restrictions include teams that cannot be drawn together for political reasons – Kosovo and Serbia, for example – and only two teams with medium/high risk of severe winter conditions can be drawn together.Certain teams, such as Kazakhstan, cannot be drawn with multiple teams if the travel is deemed to excessive.ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobWho can England face in World Cup 2026 qualifying?The Three Lions are in Pot 1 due to their excellent performances in recent major tournaments.That means Tuchel and Co will not face the likes of Spain, France, Germany and other European heavyweights.Pot 2 contains the likes of Ukraine, Sweden and Turkey, while there is the potential for local derbies against any of the other home nations.Wales are in Pot 2, while Scotland, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are all in Pot 3.The pots are in full here: Pot One: Spain, Germany, Portugal, France, Italy, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, England, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria.Pot Two: Ukraine, Sweden, Turkey, Wales, Hungary, Serbia, Poland, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Norway.Pot Three: Scotland, Slovenia, Republic of Ireland, Albania, North Macedonia, Georgia, Finland, Iceland, Northern Ireland, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Israel.READ MORE SUN STORIESPot Four: Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Kosovo, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Estonia, Cyprus, Faroe Islands, Latvia, Lithuania.Pot Five: Moldova, Malta, Andorra, Gibraltar, Liechtenstein, San Marino. More