World Cup 2026 News
The latest news, analysis and transfer updates from the World Cup 2026.
FIFA Assesses Argentina's Falklands Banner; Final Bans Unconfirmed
FIFA has confirmed a disciplinary assessment after Argentina players displayed a Falklands banner. No final-ban decision has been announced, and UEFA's Rodri-Morata case is not a binding FIFA precedent.
Rashford Did Not Start on the Right Against Argentina: England Chose Rogers
England selected Morgan Rogers, not Marcus Rashford, on the right for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. Rogers assisted Anthony Gordon's opener, while Rashford entered only after Argentina had taken a 2-1 lead.
Tuchel's Back-Five Switch Under Scrutiny After England's Argentina Defeat
England's late 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat prompted criticism of Thomas Tuchel's defensive changes. BBC Sport reported concern among senior players, but Tuchel argued the team had already lost control before the switch to a back five.
Harry Kane's Role in England's 2-1 Semi-Final Defeat to Argentina
Harry Kane contributed to the move for Anthony Gordon's opener but did not score as England lost 2-1 to Argentina. Lionel Messi assisted both late goals in the World Cup semi-final.
England's Set-Piece Plan Against Argentina: What the Semi-Final Showed
Pre-match analysis identified set pieces as one possible route through Argentina. The semi-final produced a different lesson: England scored from open play, while Argentina used a short corner to begin their late comeback.
Argentina's Late Comeback Beat England 2-1 and Set Up Spain Final
Argentina recovered from Anthony Gordon's opener to beat England 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final. Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scored late from Lionel Messi assists, sending the holders into the final against Spain.
Declan Rice Started England Semi-Final After Recovering From Illness
Declan Rice recovered from illness in time to start England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. Official match records confirm he played 82 minutes before being replaced by Nico O'Reilly.
The Treatment RoomSaliba Back Injury Update: Surgery Not Preferred in Latest Report
William Saliba left France's semi-final with a back problem. L'Équipe later reported that surgery was not the preferred option after new tests, while Arsenal's final treatment plan and return date remained open.
Spain's World Cup Shutout Record Ended at 650 Minutes—Then the Defence Rebounded
Charles De Ketelaere ended Spain's World Cup shutout run at 650 minutes. Spain still beat Belgium 2-1 and responded with a 2-0 semi-final victory over France.
England Quartet Avoided Semi-Final Bans as Yellow Cards Reset
Four England players entered the Norway quarter-final one booking from a ban. None received a second caution, and their single yellow cards were cancelled after the quarter-final.
FIFA Cited Article 27 but Did Not Detail Balogun Exception
FIFA used article 27 to suspend implementation of Folarin Balogun's one-match sanction for a year. Public statements confirm the ruling but do not establish political causation or fully explain why article 27 was applied.
Argentina Beat Switzerland 3-1 After Extra Time Before England Win
Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in the World Cup quarter-final. Messi assisted Alexis Mac Allister's opener, Switzerland equalised through Dan Ndoye, and late goals sent Argentina through to face England.