World Cup 2026

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Much-loved World Cup goalkeeper, 38, scores penalty to win title in final season after 14 years with European giants

      by

      GALATASARAY goalkeeper Fernando Muslera scored the winner that confirmed the Turkish title for his beloved team on his final season with the club.Muslera, 38, is set to call time on his 14-year spell with Galata in June when his contract runs out.Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera scored a penalty against KayserisporMuslera’s goal confirmed Galatasaray’s 25th league titleMuslera scored on his final season with Galatasaray, where he spent 14 yearsAnd the legendary keeper signed off in style as he sealed the Turkish Super Lig giants’ 25th title on Sunday.Galatasaray hosted Kayserispor at the RAMS Park in a game that Okan Buruk’s side had to win to clinch first place.The Turkish giants enjoyed a dream start in the first half with Napoli loanee Victor Osimhen’s opener on 26 minutes and Barıs Alper Yılmaz’s goal just three minutes later.Then the hosts won a penalty in the 89th minute and a decision was made to pay tribute to fan favourite Muslera.Read More on FootballThe ex-Uruguay international stepped up to take the spot-kick with the home fans cheering him on.The ex-Lazio star then barely beat Kayserispor goalkeeper Bilal Bayazıt, who correctly lunged to his bottom left corner but failed to hold on to the ball.That sparked passionate celebrations as even Galatasaray’s subs stormed the pitch to celebrate with the legendary shot-stopper.Buruk’s men are now mathematically champions after leaving Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce eight points behind with two matches to go.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSMuslera joined Galatasaray from Lazio in 2011 and went on to amass a total of 550 appearances.The Uruguayan won eight league titles and five Turkish Cups with the Istanbul outfit.The keeper also stood out for his national team during that time as he won the 2011 Copa America and competed in four World Cups.That also wasn’t his first goal for Galatasaray as he also scored another penalty in 2012 against Manisaspor in the final game of his debut season at the club.Muslera’s goal sparked passionate celebrations for Galatasaray More

    • 263 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

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

      by

      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

    • 200 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      First World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale with packages costing up to a whopping £55,000

      by

      WORLD CUP 2026 tickets have gone on sale – with some costing up to an eye-watering £55,000.The tournament will be co-hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico.World Cup hospitality tickets are on saleCredit: PAThe MetLife stadium will host the final and boasts the most expensive package dealsCredit: GettyAnd it is in the States where the pricy bundle packages of around $73,000 are found, with three different options on offer.The USA boasts 11 host cities, and all but one will offer an eight-match package to watch every game played in the city.Dallas is scheduled to host nine matches and will offer every game as part of the US Venue series, with New York/New Jersey and Los Angeles holding eight fixtures.New York/New Jersey offers the priciest package, as the MetLife Stadium hosts the World Cup final.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe cheapest eight-match package on offer at the venue costs £19,282 – the most expensive is £55,000.San Francisco is the place to go for the cheapest city bundle – where eight matches will cost fans £6,184 ($8,275).Another package on offer is the US Four-Match Series, which allows spectators the chances to acquire hospitality tickets at four games across various US venues.Fans will be able to pick and choose but they are restricted to fixtures taking place between Monday and Thursday, and excluded from the US men’s team’s opener.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHospitality deals include access to seating options such as private suites, pitchside lounges and numerous other shared lounges.Fans will also be granted access to the Fifa Pavilion as part of the Follow My Team Series.Iran takes to the pitch for training session for World Cup qualifying match The package includes tickets to every group stage game for a fan’s national team, where they will access the pavilion – an exclusive retreat located next to stadiums where pre and post-match hospitality and entertainment is available.Prices for the fan series package begin at £5,612.Normal ticket prices will average at around £260 for early stages matches, according to The Athletic. More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Carlo Ancelotti agrees next job as Real Madrid set to ‘part ways nicely’ with former Chelsea boss

      by

      CARLO ANCELOTTI has already lined up a new job as he prepares to exit Real Madrid.The former Chelsea boss, 65, looks all set to leave the Bernabeu at the end of the season. Carlo Ancelotti has already made plans for his next job after Real MadridCredit: RexThe Italian is reportedly set to join up with Brazil for the World CupCredit: GettyAncelotti is said to have already told senior figures in the dressing room of his decision to depart. The 65-year-old won the Champions League last season but saw his side crash out to Arsenal earlier this month. And now he is preparing to go into international management for the first time.Ancelotti has reportedly reached an agreement in principle with Brazil to become head coach for the 2026 World Cup.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTransfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims the deal will be “valid from June, NOT after the Club World Cup”.It leads the way for Madrid and Ancelotti to “part ways nicely” after four years. Brazil is the most successful nation ever to play in the World Cup.But they have been knocked out in the quarter-final stage in four of the last five tournaments.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAnd they haven’t won the trophy since 2002. Ancelotti currently has a contract at the Bernabeu running until the summer of 2026.Carlo Ancelotti shows his disappointment as Real Madrid crashes out of Champions League to Arsenal Real chief Florentino Perez will likely have to appoint an interim boss for this summer’s revamped Club World Cup in the USA.Director of Football Santi Solari is said to be best placed for the role.But other reports suggest Madrid could approach number one target Xabi Alonso before the tournament begins. Ancelotti has enjoyed two spells in the Spanish capital, originally taking charge in 2013.Over the course of his illustrious career, he’s won five Champions League trophies.At the Bernabeu, he has lifted three LaLiga titles and two Copa del Reys, along with Big Ears three times.La Gazzetta dello Sport claimed earlier this month AC Milan had contacted the Italian over a return to the San Siro.Read More on The SunAncelotti won the Serie A and Champions League titles twice with the Rossoneri as manager between 2001 and 2009.While AS Roma were also interested in Ancelotti to replace Premier League title winner Claudio Ranieri. More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      World Cup 2030 could make history for TWO reasons as chief proposes expanding tournament to 64 TEAMS

      by

      THE WORLD CUP could expand to 64 teams in a radical transformation, it has been revealed.An official proposal from Conmebol president, Alejandro Dominguez, for the 2030 tournament was submitted on Thursday.The 2030 World Cup could expand to 64 teams as part of a new proposalCredit: PAA 64-team tournament would mean more than a quarter of Fifa’s 211 member nations would qualify.The 2022 World Cup in Qatar played host to 32 teams, while the 2026 tournament – hosted between USA, Canada and Mexico – will have 48 teams.The 2026 expansion is already facing criticism for diluting the quality of the nations involved.A total of 12 third-place teams will be able to make the knockout round, while under a 32-team format the top two from the group reach the knockout stage.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFootball’s governing body, Fifa, is aware of the 64-team proposal.President Gianni Infantino, who participated in the Conmebol Congress, noted the “exceptional milestone” of the centennial tournament.The idea was first flouted last March by a delegate from the Uruguay Football Association during an online meeting of the ruling council of world soccer’s governing body.However, Dominguez has now put the idea into motion for the 100-year anniversary of the tournament.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKSpeaking at Conmebol’s 80th Ordinary Congress, he said: “This will allow all countries to have the opportunity to live the world experience and so nobody on the planet is left out of the party.”We are convinced that the centennial celebration will be unique because 100 years are celebrated only once.”UK to host 2035 Women’s World Cup as Fifa chief Gianni Infantino confirms just ‘one valid bid’ for tournamentThe 2030 World Cup will already make history to be the most widespread edition of the tournament with six host nations spread across three continents.Uruguay, the hosts of the first-ever World Cup in 1930, will host one game, while Paragauy, Argentina, Spain, Portugal and Morocco co-host.The expansion would likely most heavily benefit Conmebol, with all 10 member countries able to make the tournament proper – and therefore allowing Venezuela, who have never qualified, to play.Dominguez added: “That is why we are proposing, for the first time, to hold this anniversary with 64 teams, on three continents simultaneously.”A Fifa statement on the idea on Friday said it had a “duty to analyse any proposal from one of its Council members”.Fifa’s 75th congress will be held on May 15 in Paraguay, when the proposal could be discussed.Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin has already positioned himself against the idea, calling it a “bad idea” earlier this month.He said at a news conference: “This proposal was maybe even more surprising for me than you. I think it is a bad idea.”With 48 teams, the 2026 tournament will have 104 matches.Read More on The SunBut an increased 64-nation format would see 128 matches played – a dramatic increase from the 64-games seen at World Cups between 1998 and 2022.Earlier this month it was announced the UK is set to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup after the Home Nations bid was confirmed as the “sole bidder”. More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Secret ‘hack’ to get guaranteed World Cup final tickets revealed if you follow unusual strategy

      by

      FANS have spotted a hack to guarantee they get a seat at the 2026 World Cup final.Fifa are reportedly concerned about the lack of tickets purchased for their revamped Club World Cup (CWC) this summer.Fans have the chance to guarantee their seat at the World Cup final by purchasing Club World Cup ticketsCredit: APFifa are understood to be concerned by the lack of tickets purchased for their revamped Club World CupCredit: GettyAnd in a shock incentive to encourage fans to attend matches, they are offering “ticket packs” that ensures supporters World Cup tickets, even for the final. A CWC “ticket pack” buys fans a seat at two or three of a club’s group stage matches in the US in June.As a reward, they will then receive an exclusive pre-sale code to buy a ticket for a game at next year’s World Cup held across Canada, the US and Mexico.It is currently unclear what matches these codes will be valid for and Fifa are set to choose.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe price of the “ticket pack” varies depending on which matches you go to.But there is also a “super ticket pack” on offer and it is fans’ route to the 2026 World Cup final.It includes seats at 20 CWC clashes, with the terms and conditions stating that the 20 games must include either the tournament opener or final, as well as one of the semi-finals.The rules also say that you cannot choose multiple matches on the same day and you must attend every game you have a ticket for.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut with just 22 matchdays in total and games spread across the US, it presents fans with a major travel headache.Though the tickets can be passed on to family or friends.Major change to World Cup final confirmed by Fifa chief Gianni Infantino with Coldplay to perform half-time show Buying the “super ticket pack” guarantees you the chance to be at the 2026 World Cup final when they go on sale.Depending on the category you of seats and matches you choose, the price of the package varies from £1,764 to £4,300. Fans have slammed the idea, with one saying: “Buy 20 CWC tickets for an opportunity to buy a ticket for the WC Final? This is a joke. Beyond the logistics aspect, 20 CWC tickets would be an absurdly expensive.”Another added: “Everything that is wrong with modern football.”A third wrote: “The whole competition is a joke.” More

    • 250 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Gary Lineker reveals plans for life after Match of the Day with just nine shows left until he steps down

      by

      GARY LINEKER outlined his plans after rolling credits on his glittering 26-year run as Match of the Day presenter.Lineker, 64, will step down from MOTD in May and will leave the Beeb altogether in 2026 after next season’s FA Cup and World Cup.Gary Lineker outlined his plans after leaving Match of the Day in MayCredit: YOUTUBE / The Rest Is FootballLineker wants to travel and focus on his podcasts after leaving TVCredit: AlamyThere was speculation suggesting the famous host would be switching to Sky Sports but he recently quashed those rumours.The England legend was asked again about his future plans on the latest episode of The Rest is Football pod where he teamed up with Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.A viewer sent a cheeky question to the Leicester hero asking him if he was planning to cover the Championship in a MOTD-style show while his favourite Premier League team is fighting to avoid relegation.Lineker was asked: “Gary, would you do a MOTD style show for the Championship next season so you can finally enjoy Leicester again?”Read More on FootballBut the Tottenham legend proved to be a good sport once more as he laughed it off.Lineker responded: “Alright, we’re not relegated yet, thanks. Well – one – we don’t have the rights on the BBC to show the Championship. And secondly, no thanks.”Shearer and Richards, though, had a follow-up question as they asked their fellow host what he will be doing with his weekends now that he will finally have Saturdays and Sundays off.And the ex-Barcelona star revealed he is planning to enjoy his free time by travelling.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLineker replied: “I was thinking the same thing because I’ve never really had weekends off in my adult life.”So I think I’ll be alright. I will go out to eat on Saturday night, have dinner. I’ll have little weekend trips away, possibly some places. Lots of places to go to – food trips, all that sort of stuff. I think I’ll be alright.”‘I don’t like it’ – Gary Lineker has wild reaction after spotting ex-Match of the Day star at Baller League launchShearer asked if he will continue working on TV but Lineker insists he is done with that outlet as there’s nothing better than Match of the Day and echoed his plans to focus on his podcasts.Lineker joked: “No, I’ve got a podcast to do with a couple of clowns and I’m obviously a podcast magnet. It’s not just this podcast, we’ve got lots of others as well.”I’m stepping away from Match of the Day. I mean, where do you go from there? So I think, that’ll do. Thank you very much.”I mean, never say never. Who knows what might pop. But at the moment I’m thinking, ‘No, that’s it. Television’s done’.” More

    • 263 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Iconic Estadio Azteca stadium where Diego Maradona scored The Hand of God goal to be renamed as part of £80MILLION deal

      by

      THE iconic Estadio Azteca is set to be renamed the Estadio Banorte as part of an £80million sponsorship deal.Mexico’s national stadium – where Diego Maradona scored his Hand of God goal against England in 1986 – has undergone several renovations since it opened in 1966.Estadio Azteca has been renamedCredit: AFPThe iconic stadium is currently being renovatedCredit: AFPThe stadium is set to host the opening game of 2026 World CupCredit: AlamyIt is undergoing changes in order to be fully modernised in time for next year’s World Cup.To help finance the redevelopments, a sponsorship deal has been reached with Mexican bank Banorte that will see the 81,000-capacity ground’s name change.A statement read: “Banorte and Grupo Ollamani proudly announce a partnership that includes financing, advertising, and sponsorship elements to modernize and transform this historic stadium, a symbol of Mexican football and culture.”From today, the Cathedral of World Football will be known as Estadio Banorte.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe arrangement will see the stadium receive £80million in financing.Strict Fifa sponsorship rules, however, will dictate that the stadium will still be referred to as Estadio Azteca throughout next year’s World Cup.Renovations will see improved LED screens introduced, new interior spaces built, moved media seats and improved changing rooms – in addition to an increased capacity of 90,000.Mexican side Club America also play their home games at the Estadio Azteca.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKLast year they temporarily moved to Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes, however, due to the Azteca’s revelopment works.It’s hoped that the Azteca will be ready for Club America to return by December.Saudi Arabia release new pictures of 92,000-capacity ‘germinating seed’ King Salman Stadium ahead of 2034 World CupThe Azteca 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.This will make the Azteca the first stadium to ever host three World Cup openers, having also done so in 1970 and 1986.Despite the stadium’s prestige, only five of the tournament’s 104 matches will take place in Mexico City.Its last will be a round of 16 clash on July 5.In comparison, the Estadio Azteca hosted ten games at the 1970 World Cup and nine in 1986.One of the matches it hosted during the latter was England’s quarter-final exit to Argentina.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe match remains legendary for Diego Maradona’s double – one a sensational weaving run and finish, the other the infamous Hand of God.With the Azteca still possessing terracing in those days, the match was watched by 114,580 people.Diego Maradona’s Hand of God goal took place at Mexico City’s iconic stadiumCredit: Getty – ContributorPele won the 1970 World Cup at the Estadio AztecaCredit: Getty More