FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.
Bayern Munich defeated Real Madrid 4-3 in a dramatic Champions League quarter-final second leg, securing a 6-4 aggregate victory and a place in the semi-finals against Paris St Germain.
The San Jose Earthquakes, despite their strong season, are making way for the U.S. national team as California hosts World Cup knockout matches. This event is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase soccer's global appeal and accelerate its growth in the state, which already boasts a thriving football culture driven by its diverse population and numerous professional teams.
Cristiano Ronaldo expressed sadness after Portugal's World Cup exit following a 1-0 loss to Spain, stating he gave his all and is leaving with a clear conscience, but will take time to reflect on his international future.
Spain captain Rodri has expressed his team's ambition and hunger ahead of the World Cup final against Argentina. He highlighted Spain's gradual growth and well-rounded team play, while acknowledging Argentina's competitive spirit and the formidable presence of Lionel Messi. Rodri anticipates a physical battle and draws inspiration from Spain's 2010 World Cup victory.
UEFA and CONCACAF say they have lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino after the governing body withdrew its controversial World Cup rights plan.
Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh believes his side is capable of ending the country's five-decade-long World Cup medal drought, drawing parallels with the team's success at the Tokyo Olympics.
Rajasthan-born cricketer Jai Moondra, who recently starred in Ireland's T20 series win against India, has been drafted by Rotterdam Dockers in the inaugural European T20 Player League (ETPL) Draft. The draft saw six franchises select 36 players from Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, with Moondra being a key acquisition for the Dockers.
The ICC board has formed a committee to assess the impact of the growing franchise cricket leagues on the international cricket calendar, aiming to strike a balance and prevent disruption.
PSG coach Luis Enrique downplays favourites tag ahead of Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool, warning of a tough contest despite the English side's struggles.
Real Madrid have signed Spain international Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on a six-year deal, making him Jose Mourinho's first signing since returning to the Santiago Bernabeu as manager.
Bournemouth defeated Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates, throwing the Premier League title race wide open and boosting Manchester City's chances.
Spain and Portugal are set to clash in the World Cup Round of 16 in Texas, a rematch of last year's Nations League final. The match features a generational battle between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lamine Yamal, with Spain entering unbeaten in 34 matches and Portugal looking to overcome recent struggles.
Spain take a 36-match unbeaten run into their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against France, with Lamine Yamal calling it the biggest match of his career as La Roja chase Italy's all-time record.
Rodri delivered a midfield masterclass against France, anchoring Spain's 2-0 victory and securing their place in the World Cup final. His performance marked a significant return to his pre-injury form, reminiscent of his dominant displays for Manchester City, as he frustrated France's attacking efforts and dictated play.
Liverpool edged closer to Champions League qualification with a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Anfield on Saturday, but the result came with a sour note as Mohamed Salah went off with a suspected hamstring injury.
Former Afghanistan U-19 cricketer Dawood Ahmadzai overcame hardship, exile and years of struggle to become France's leading T20I wicket-taker, with his sights now set on helping the country qualify for a historic Cricket World Cup.
Nervy Arsenal go back to top of Premier League as Eze seals viNervy Arsenal go back to top of Premier League as Eze seals vital win over Newcastletal win over Newcastle
Germany's World Cup misery continued as Paraguay stunned the four-time champions on penalties in the Round of 32, extending a decade-long decline marked by defensive frailties and major tournament disappointments since 2014.
Barcelona prepares to face Newcastle in the Champions League round of 16, with coach Hansi Flick emphasising the importance of the match. The team aims to improve on last season's semi-final exit and secure their first Champions League title since 2015.
Matthew Hayden cautions young cricketers against blindly copying Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's fearless batting style, backs Shubman Gill's consistency, and raises concerns over the future of bilateral ODI cricket amid the franchise boom.
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football's greatest players, celebrated his 39th birthday. The article chronicles his journey from humble beginnings in Rosario to becoming a global superstar, highlighting his unparalleled success at Barcelona, his international triumphs with Argentina including the 2022 World Cup, his individual accolades like eight Ballon d'Or awards, and his current impact with Inter Miami, cementing his legacy as a record-breaking legend.
Norway's star striker Erling Haaland is attempting to pile pressure on England ahead of their World Cup quarter-final clash, labelling them 'clear favourites' and urging the media to amplify expectations on the English squad.
Cabo Verde's star goalkeeper Vozinha has expressed confidence ahead of their FIFA World Cup round of 32 clash against Argentina, vowing to make history. The debutant nation has impressed with three draws in the group stage, becoming the smallest country to reach the knockout phase. Vozinha also achieved a rare feat, becoming only the third goalkeeper over 40 to register multiple clean sheets in the tournament. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni has acknowledged Cabo Verde as a tough opponent.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry to the United States for the World Cup despite a valid visa, has been appointed to officiate the upcoming UEFA Super Cup match between Paris St Germain and Aston Villa. This appointment follows a cooperation agreement between UEFA and CAF.
Rahul Dravid said the European T20 Premier League offers an 'exciting opportunity' to grow cricket in Europe after becoming owner of the Dublin Guardians franchise.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of Paris St Germain has been named the Champions League Player of the Season by UEFA after leading his team to victory. PSG defeated Arsenal in the final, with Kvaratskhelia playing a key role.
UEFA has fined Benfica 40,000 euros for racist behaviour by supporters during their Champions League match against Real Madrid.
France take on Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final aiming for a third consecutive World Cup final, with Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele leading Les Bleus against Europe's champions.
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal has been named LaLiga Player of the season, the Spanish league announced on Friday.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp criticised the VAR decision that disallowed Jonathan Tah's goal, leading to Germany's early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. He also took a dig at Arsenal regarding their set-piece goals, suggesting many would be ruled out if Tah's goal was illegal.
FC Barcelona hammered Newcastle United F.C. 7-2 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals, while Liverpool F.C., Bayern Munich and Atltico Madrid also advanced.
The Sports Ministry's Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has sanctioned Rs 35.46 lakh for overseas training stints for Paralympic medallists Ajeet Singh (javelin) and Pranav Soorma (club throw) to prepare them for the upcoming Asian Para-Games in Japan. Both athletes, part of the TOPS core group, will train in Germany and Czechia respectively, with Pranav also participating in multiple championships.
Portugal, Denmark, Poland, Serbia, Austria, Croatia and Ukraine are among countries which will again be able to enjoy league football, albeit in unusual circumstances with no spectators allowed at games.
Arsenal take on defending champions PSG in the Champions League final as Mikel Arteta's revitalised side chase their first European crown and look to complete a remarkable resurgence.
Bologna advanced to the Europa League quarter-finals after a thrilling 4-3 win against AS Roma.
Manchester United defeated Nottingham Forest 3-2 at Old Trafford as Bruno Fernandes equalled the Premier League assist record and Michael Carrick moved closer to securing the manager's job permanently.
Manchester City were drawn against Real Madrid in the Champions League knockout phase for the sixth time since the 2019-20 season after the draw for the last 16, quarterfinals and semifinals was made on Friday.
With hot weather due and memories fresh of the scorching 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA has for the first time mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 matches of the World Cup starting this week in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.
Cristiano Ronaldo silenced his critics in emphatic fashion by scoring in Portugal's crucial FIFA World Cup Group K match against Uzbekistan in Houston on Tuesday, becoming the first player in history to score at six different editions of a FIFA World Cup.
