Tuesday’s Stunning Upset Extends Italy’s World Cup Drought
Bosnia delivered a stunning upset of Italy on Tuesday, continuing the Azzuri’s World Cup drought. Italy scored early, but was left shorthanded after a red card. They are the first former champions to not qualify for three straight World Cups.
UEFA World Cup Playoff Semi-Finals Didn’t Dissapoint
The UEFA World Cup playoff semi-finals took place on Thursday, providing some exciting drama. Efforts from Italy, Czechia, and Kosovo highlighted the slate of matches, setting us up for an incredible final round on Tuesday.
FIFA’s Hotel Cuts Fuel Fears Over Status of the World Cup
FIFA is starting to make large-scale cancellations of hotel rooms at host cities ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The cuts included 2,000 rooms in Philadelphia and another 800 in Mexico City, with more expected in other host cities.
Infantino Rebuffs Iran’s Request to Move World Cup Matches
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has rebuffed a request from Iran to move its World Cup matches. While he hasn’t made the rejection official, it would end any chance Iran had at participating in the 2026 tournament this summer.
Noahki Banks Running Out of Time to Choose His National Team
Young star Noahki Banks is facing a choice between the US and Germany’s national programs. While he has been a part of the USMNT, the 19-year-old made it clear he may be looking to join the European powerhouse.
Iran Will Skip the 2026 World Cup Amid Conflict With US
Iran’s sports minister confirmed that its men’s national soccer team will skip the 2026 World Cup this summer. The decision is a result of the country’s ongoing military conflict with the US, which is spreading fast.
Nigeria, Congo Await Ruling From FIFA Over World Cup Status
Nigeria and DR Congo continue to wait for a ruling from FIFA, determining which team will advance to the intercontinental playoffs. While FIFA released a schedule that included Congo, officials in Nigeria confirmed no official decision has been made.
US Still Holding Critical Security Funds for 2026 World Cup
Several World Cup host sites in the US are demanding answers on delayed security funds from DHS. Leaders from Foxborough, New Jersey, and Miami have warned they may need to forfeit hosting duties if the funds aren’t delivered soon.
Is Iran in Real Danger of Missing the 2026 World Cup?
Iran is facing rising tensions with the US and domestic protests, raising questions about its participation in the World Cup this summer. Fears of military conflict, boycotts, and more make the extreme possibility far more realistic.
FIFA Remains “Calm” About Mexico Hosting World Cup Matches
FIFA has asserted its confidence in Mexico’s ability to secure its World Cup host cities, despite recent cartel-related violence in Guadalajara. The league isn’t planning to move any matches in Mexico, though they will continue to monitor the situation.