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France Azerbaijan 3-1 World Cup Qualifiers Getty Images
World Cup Qualifiers - Europe

Bleu Victory in Baku: Mbappé Absent, France Safely Secures World Cup Spot with a 3-1 Win

France completed its World Cup qualifying campaign with a 3-1 win in Azerbaijan, despite Mbappé not lining up. Renat Dadashov put the hosts ahead early, but France stormed back with goals from Mateta, Akliouche, and an own goal by the Azeri keeper. France tops the group with 16 points, already qualified after a prior win over Ukraine. Deschamps used a rotated lineup as he eyes the World Cup, with late substitutions to rest stars.

Gamal Bohandi discusses the Arab Cup in Qatar as a unifying platform for Arab culture and regional solidarity, highlighting UAE ambitions and Qatar’s hosting.
Arab Cup

Gamal Bohandi: The Arab Cup as a Rallying Point for Arab Unity

Gamal Bohandi, a former UAE star, looks ahead to the Arab Cup in Qatar as a key moment for regional unity. He frames the tournament as a gathering to celebrate Arab culture and solidarity through football. Bohandi stresses the honor of representing the UAE on a world stage and the role of the event in showcasing the next generation of Emirati players. The piece also outlines group dynamics, venues, and the broader vision for football’s cultural impact.

Al Ahli Jeddah four battles after the international break
Saudi Pro League

Al Ahli Jeddah at a Crossroads: Four Battles That Could Redefine Their Season

With the international break behind them, Al Ahli Jeddah stands at a critical juncture. Four internal battles demand decisions that could shape their season. The issues range from coach Matias Jaissle's future and Ivan Tony's role, to the club's league title race and Asia Champions League defense. As pressures mount from fans and media, every move could tilt the balance between revival and regression.

Portugal celebrates World Cup 2026 qualification with a 9-1 win over Armenia in Lisbon, Ronaldo suspended
World Cup Qualifiers

Portugal’s World Cup 2026 Parade: Ronaldo Watches as the Ticket Is Sealed in a 9-1 Win Over Armenia

Portugal secured a dominant 9-1 victory over Armenia in Lisbon to seal their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo, suspended and watching from the sidelines, celebrated the win with his teammates and fans. The result left Portugal topping Group 6 with 13 points from six games. Ronaldo’s absence did not dampen the mood or the goals. The story also highlights Ronaldo’s bid to become the first player to feature in six World Cups, a feat that would rival Lionel Messi’s longevity.

Mohamed Sabry funeral in Cairo with Egyptian football stars
Egyptian Premier League

Farewell on the Field: Egyptian Stars Honour Mohamed Sabry

A galaxy of Egyptian football legends gathered in Cairo to mourn Mohamed Sabry, former Zamalek and Egypt national team star. The ceremony highlighted Sabry's career, loyalty, and impact on Egyptian football, as clubs and officials paid tribute. Zamalek announced mourning and support for his family, while colleagues from both Zamalek and Al Ahly attended. The event underscored unity across Egyptian football in times of loss.

Toni Kroos dream XI with Messi, Ronaldo and Zidane
DreamXI

Kroos's Dream XI: Messi, Ronaldo, Zidane and Maldini Lead the Legends

Retired German star Toni Kroos unveils his all-time XI, a fusion of eras and continents led by Neuer in goal and a frontline of Ronaldo, Ronaldo, and Messi. The lineup blends legends from across generations, including Maldini, Zidane, and Ramos in defense and midfield maestros Ronaldinho, Modric, and Zidane controlling the tempo. The piece revisits Kroos's storied career at Bayern and Real Madrid, along with his World Cup triumph and international retirement. It ends with a nod to his enduring influence on midfield precision and tactical discipline, sprinkled with light humor.

Gabriel Magalhaes injury update from Arsenal vs Senegal in Emirates Stadium
Premier League

Gabriel Magalhaes Injury Casts Shadow over Arsenal as Brazil Defender Hits the Sidelines

Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes is ruled out due to a right thigh muscle injury sustained in Brazil's friendly win over Senegal at Emirates Stadium. The Brazilian federation said he will be out of action for the foreseeable future and will not join the squad for the upcoming Tunisia friendly in Lille. The setback compounds Arsenal's defensive depth concerns as they bid for Premier League and European success this season. With several teammates also sidelined, Arsenal must rely on a deep squad and consistent performances to keep pace at the top.

Al Hilal star Ruben Neves renewal rumors in Saudi Pro League with European interest
Saudi Pro League

Turkish Giants Circle Al Hilal's Star Neves as Renewal Talks Stall

Renewal talks for Ruben Neves with Al Hilal have stalled, triggering renewed transfer rumors. Fenerbahçe is reportedly watching the situation closely, with European clubs from the Premier League and beyond also showing interest. Neves has been a cornerstone for Hilal, and his contract status could reshape the midfield landscape this season. Injuries and schedule pressures add to the drama as Hyllal battles on multiple fronts.

Maaz Faqihi nears return to Al Ittihad in Saudi Pro League context
Saudi Pro League

Faqihi Poised for a Defensive Reboot: Al Ittihad Eyes a Sharper Backline

Maaz Faqihi, a 23-year-old defender for Al Ittihad, is close to rejoining team training after rehabilitation. His comeback comes as the Saudi club prepares for a packed run in the Saudi Pro League and Asia's elite competitions. Coach Sergio Conceicao has kept him in defensive plans amid squad shortages. A summer move from Al Hilal, with a previous loan spell at Al Taawoun, shapes his story this season. The team aims to stabilize form and reclaim identity amid a busy schedule.

Zidane edges toward a France coaching return after 2026, with Real Madrid success backing his case and Saudi links fueling the rumor mill.
World Cup Qualifiers - Europe

Zidane’s Quiet Return? France Could Be in Line for a Stylish Comeback After 2026

Zinedine Zidane is reportedly edging toward a coaching return, potentially with France after the 2026 World Cup, per Spanish outlets. He left Real Madrid in 2021 and has since stayed away from club management. Deschamps’ long tenure as France coach keeps things in flux, while French and Saudi connections swirl around a possible move. The article also covers recent France fixtures and squad selections ahead of the Europe World Cup qualifiers.

Achraf Hakimi on the comeback trail ahead of AFCON in Paris
AFCON

Hakimi’s Comeback Countdown: Morocco’s AFCON Hopes Rest on a Brighter Injury Report

Morocco received a hopeful update on Achraf Hakimi’s recovery after a serious ankle injury. Paris Saint-Germain doctors confirmed bleeding in ankle tissues but no full ligament rupture, opening a faster rehabilitation path. Hakimi is in regular contact with teammates from the Moroccan camp and has posted motivating messages about returning stronger. Coach Walid Regragui is adjusting the lineup to keep momentum ahead of the Uganda friendly and AFCON.

Saudi Arabia vs Ivory Coast friendly Getty Images
Friendlies

Saudi's Hidden Ace: Abu Al-Shamat Cleared by Coach, World Cup 2026 in Sight

Yusuf Al-Ghadeer defends Saleh Abu Al-Shamat after a composed showing in a friendly against Ivory Coast. The win underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing cohesion as they build toward the 2026 World Cup. The piece traces Abu Al-Shamat’s rise, Renard’s trust, and the team’s evolving plan in the lead-up to a tougher schedule. A friendly against Algeria adds another test and a chance for this generation to shine.

Alexander Isak Liverpool comeback photo on the field
Premier League

Isak Breaks Silence: Liverpool's Record-Price Striker Faces The Challenge Of A Slow Start

Alexander Isak finally speaks out after a rocky Liverpool start marked by injuries and limited impact. He stresses that there are no excuses and remains optimistic about returning to form. Teammates and his own performances throughout his career are highlighted to illustrate the journey from Solna to Anfield. The piece traces his career arc, the transfer saga, and what lies ahead for the Swedish striker at Liverpool.

Ibrahima Konaté Liverpool France captain Azerbaijan interview 2025
transfer

Between Anfield and a Possible Exit: Konaté's Liverpool Future Under Scrutiny

Ibrahima Konaté addressed ongoing speculation about his Liverpool future as his contract nears its end. The 26-year-old defender could negotiate a move from January, having joined Liverpool in 2021 for around €40 million. He has made 148 appearances for the club, scoring six times and providing four assists, with a disciplinary tally that includes 27 yellows and a single red. Reports in France’s L’Equipe suggest Liverpool are confident they can persuade him to sign a new deal. Meanwhile, Madrid-linked whispers persist as the football world awaits a resolution that could reshape Anfield’s backline.

Al Nassr injury concerns before the Saudi Pro League restart
Saudi Pro League

Injury Storm Clouds Al Nassr's Saudi Pro League Return: Will Jorge Jesus Risk the Stars?

Al Nassr's Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus is uneasy as several players struggle with injuries ahead of the league’s restart. The team is preparing to face Al-Khaleej next Sunday at their home ground after the international break. Reports indicate Jesus fears a relapse among Saad Al-Nasser, Ayman Ahmed, and Saad Haqwi despite rehab, while Abdul Malik Al-Jaber remains a concern. The coach has asked the fitness staff to gauge readiness before a light scrimmage with the under-21 squad, to avoid risking a setback on a full training session.

Iraq training ahead of UAE playoff in Basra
World Cup Qualifiers

Stakes Rise as Iraq Braces for UAE Showdown to Chase a 2026 World Cup Dream

Iraq sharpened preparations for the return leg against the United Arab Emirates in Basra after a 1-1 draw in Abu Dhabi. The teams battle to reach the global playoff for the 2026 World Cup. Ammar Mohsen joined the Iraqi camp, boosting the attack as coach Graham Arnold plots a Tactical tweak with Cosmin Olaroiu studying UAE’s away form. The mood in Basra is focused, hopeful, and hungry for a breakthrough.

France coach Didier Deschamps to announce 2026 World Cup squad in May; Konaté to captain vs Azerbaijan
World Cup 2026

France's 2026 World Cup Squad Plan: Deschamps Teases May Reveal And A Captaincy Surprise

France heads toward the 2026 World Cup with a planned May squad reveal. Deschamps confirms rotation for a dead-rubber clash in Azerbaijan while signaling leadership for the match and a 26-man preliminary pool. France already clinched qualification as a European frontrunner, ahead of Ukraine and Iceland, and eyes a strong march to the tournament. Expect youth angles, strategic tweaks, and a possible Zidane-era whisper as the coach nears the end of his tenure.

Portugal Ronaldo-free lineup vs Armenia decisive qualifier
World Cup Qualifiers - Europe

Portugal's Ronaldo-free mission: can they seal World Cup 2026 against Armenia?

Portugal enters a do-or-die European qualifier against Armenia without Cristiano Ronaldo, following his red card against Ireland. They lead Group 6 with 10 points, two ahead of Hungary, with Ireland and Armenia trailing. Manager Roberto Martínez reshapes the lineup, banking on experience and youth to secure automatic World Cup progression. The fallout from Ronaldo's dismissal could extend to a World Cup ban, potentially affecting the opening matches of the finals. The match at the Dragão stadium doubles as a test of squad depth and resolve.