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It will be the final throw of the dice for 16 European teams as they look to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, as they prepare for the Playoffs. The final week of March will see 16 teams divided across four groups go head-to-head for a place in football’s ultimate showdown. So ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Playoffs in Europe, here is all you need to know, including fixtures, format, broadcast and other key details.<h2>What fixtures will take place in the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Path ASemifinal 1: Italy vs Northern IrelandSemifinal 2: Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina&nbsp;Path BSemifinal 3: Ukraine vs SwedenSemifinal 4: Poland vs Albania&nbsp;Path CSemifinal 5: Turkey vs RomaniaSemifinal 6: Slovakia vs Kosovo&nbsp;Path DSemifinal 7: Denmark vs North MacedoniaSemifinal 8: Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland<h2>When are the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>The semifinal round of the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place on the week commencing on March 26 while the final will take place on the week commencing on March 31.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>Where will be the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Teams have been seeded for both the semifinals in each path. Teams seeded in the semifinal will host the semifinal while draws have determined the format for the final of the final.&nbsp;&nbsp;Path A finalSemifinal 2 vs Semifinal 1&nbsp;Path B finalSemifinal 3 vs Semifinal 4&nbsp;Path C finalSemifinal 6 vs Semifinal 5&nbsp;Path D finalSemifinal 8 vs Semifinal 7<h2>What is the format of the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place in a single leg format with seeded teams hosting the match. Draws have determined the team set to host the final and are mentioned above.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a><h2>Which channel will broadcast the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India?</h2>The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India will be broadcasted on the Sony Sports Network.&nbsp;<h2>Which platform will live stream the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India?</h2>The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India will be telecasted on the Sony Liv App.&nbsp;

The final week of March will see 16 teams divided across four groups go head-to-head for a place in football’s ultimate showdown. So ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Playoffs in Europe, here is all you need to know, including fixtures, format, broadcast and other key details.

It will be the final throw of the dice for 16 European teams as they look to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, as they prepare for the Playoffs. The final week of March will see 16 teams divided across four groups go head-to-head for a place in football’s ultimate showdown. So ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Playoffs in Europe, here is all you need to know, including fixtures, format, broadcast and other key details. What fixtures will take place in the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026? Path A Semifinal 1: Italy vs Northern Ireland Semifinal 2: Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Path B Semifinal 3: Ukraine vs Sweden Semifinal 4: Poland vs Albania Path C Semifinal 5: Turkey vs Romania Semifinal 6: Slovakia vs Kosovo Path D Semifinal 7: Denmark vs North Macedonia Semifinal 8: Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland When are the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026? The semifinal round of the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place on the week commencing on March 26 while the final will take place on the week commencing on March 31. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Where will be the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026? Teams have been seeded for both the semifinals in each path. Teams seeded in the semifinal will host the semifinal while draws have determined the format for the final of the final. Path A final Semifinal 2 vs Semifinal 1 Path B final Semifinal 3 vs Semifinal 4 Path C final Semifinal 6 vs Semifinal 5 Path D final Semifinal 8 vs Semifinal 7 What is the format of the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026? The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place in a single leg format with seeded teams hosting the match. Draws have determined the team set to host the final and are mentioned above. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Which channel will broadcast the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India? The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India will be broadcasted on the Sony Sports Network. Which platform will live stream the UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India? The UEFA Playoff qualifiers for FIFA World Cup 2026 in India will be telecasted on the Sony Liv App.

The final week of March will see 16 teams divided across four groups go head-to-head for a place in football’s ultimate showdown. So ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Playoffs in Europe, here is all you need to know, including fixtures, format, broadcast and other key details.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Playoff Qualifiers: Here's all you need to know - fixtures, teams, path, format, live streaming

Thomas Tuchel named his England squad for the upcoming pre-World Cup friendlies against Uruguay and Japan on Friday (Mar 20). There were two notable exclusions, with Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold missing out while Ollie Watkins was also given the cut. England will face Japan and Uruguay at Wembley Stadium in the final week of March in what will be the final international break before the 2026 FIFA World Cup starts in June in North America.<h2>Tuchel excludes key names</h2>In the squad announced, the England manager gave no room to the star defender who now plays in the Spanish capital. Tottenham’s Djed Spence and Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento have been given the nod in the 35-man squad. Reece James is injured and is likely to be back in the frame once fit during the World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite naming 10 forwards in the squad, Watkins’s omission highlights the squad as he played a crucial role as back-up to Harry Kane in Euro 2024. He, in fact, scored the winner in the semifinal against the Netherlands to book a place in the final. &nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Explaining his extraordinary squad selection, Tuchel said: "We decided to divide it into two camps, almost. We have a camp where we bring players in who we haven't seen, who haven't played so much, to open up the competition for plane tickets to the US.&nbsp;"From Friday/Saturday, a group will come into camp who have had a rest before. We will go with a new group of players into the match against Japan."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a><h2>Full England squad list</h2>Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, James Trafford, Aaron Ramsdale, Jason Steele.&nbsp;Defenders: Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Lewis Hall, Ezri Konsa, Tino Livramento, Harry Maguire, Nico O'Reilly, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, John Stones, Fikayo Tomori.&nbsp;Midfielders: Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, James Garner, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Adam Wharton.&nbsp;Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Dominic Solanke.

In the squad announced on Friday (Mar 20), England manager Thomas Tuchel gave no room to the star defender Trent Alexander-Arnold who now plays for Real Madrid. Tottenham’s Djed Spence and Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento have been given the nod in the 35-man squad. 

Thomas Tuchel named his England squad for the upcoming pre-World Cup friendlies against Uruguay and Japan on Friday (Mar 20). There were two notable exclusions, with Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold missing out while Ollie Watkins was also given the cut. England will face Japan and Uruguay at Wembley Stadium in the final week of March in what will be the final international break before the 2026 FIFA World Cup starts in June in North America. Tuchel excludes key names In the squad announced, the England manager gave no room to the star defender who now plays in the Spanish capital. Tottenham’s Djed Spence and Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento have been given the nod in the 35-man squad. Reece James is injured and is likely to be back in the frame once fit during the World Cup. Despite naming 10 forwards in the squad, Watkins’s omission highlights the squad as he played a crucial role as back-up to Harry Kane in Euro 2024. He, in fact, scored the winner in the semifinal against the Netherlands to book a place in the final. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Explaining his extraordinary squad selection, Tuchel said: "We decided to divide it into two camps, almost. We have a camp where we bring players in who we haven't seen, who haven't played so much, to open up the competition for plane tickets to the US. "From Friday/Saturday, a group will come into camp who have had a rest before. We will go with a new group of players into the match against Japan." ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Full England squad list Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, James Trafford, Aaron Ramsdale, Jason Steele. Defenders: Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Lewis Hall, Ezri Konsa, Tino Livramento, Harry Maguire, Nico O'Reilly, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, John Stones, Fikayo Tomori. Midfielders: Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, James Garner, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Adam Wharton. Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Dominic Solanke.

In the squad announced on Friday (Mar 20), England manager Thomas Tuchel gave no room to the star defender Trent Alexander-Arnold who now plays for Real Madrid. Tottenham’s Djed Spence and Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento have been given the nod in the 35-man squad.&nbsp;

Thomas Tuchel names England squad for pre-World Cup friendlies; Trent, Watkins excluded

FIFA fined the Israeli Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,700) on Thursday for "multiple breaches" of its anti-discrimination obligations. A report by the disciplinary committee of world football's governing body found the IFA "failed to take meaningful action against Beitar Jerusalem" for "persistent and well-documented racist behaviour". In October 2024, the Palestine Football Association reported allegations of discrimination by the IFA to FIFA, which initiated an investigation. FIFA did not opt for the sanction requested by the Palestinian FA, which argued for a suspension of the IFA.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-we-ll-boycott-america-but-iran-clears-stance-on-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-1773909607242">'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation</a>But the IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.The disciplinary committee highlighted "deficient and substantively inadequate" sanctions against Israeli club Beitar for racist and discriminatory behaviour."Supporters have engaged in persistent and well-documented racist behaviour," the report said of Beitar fans."The club's use of slogans such as 'forever pure', and the repeated chanting of ethnic slurs such as 'terrorist' directed at Arab players are not isolated incidents but rather form part of a systemic pattern of conduct that offends the basic rules of decent behaviour and brings the sport into disrepute."The committee underlined that said club is only a small example of a general failure by the IFA."The IFA was issued with a warning and was ordered to display a "significant and highly visible banner" at its next three FIFA competition home matches, stating "Football Unites the World - No to Discrimination".The IFA will also have to invest one-third of the fine towards implementing a plan to "ensure action against discrimination and to prevent repeated incidents".The report also said that the IFA's failure to respond to "political and militaristic messaging" by the CEO of the Israeli professional league and by Maccabi Netanya "further compounds its breach"."The IFA has made no public statements condemning racism, has not launched any Anti Discrimination campaigns, and has not taken steps to foster inclusion of Arab or Palestinian players," the report continued.“It has not used its platform to promote peace or to counteract the politicisation of football by affiliated clubs and officials.”<h2>'No action' over Israeli teams in West Bank</h2>After a separate investigation, FIFA announced no action would be taken against the IFA over allegations that Israeli clubs based in the occupied West Bank were taking part in Israel's leagues."FIFA should take no action given that, in the context of the interpretation of the relevant provisions of the FIFA statutes, the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law," FIFA's governance, audit and compliance committee said in a statement.In 2024, United Nations experts -- mandated by the Human Rights Council but not speaking on behalf of the UN -- said at least eight football clubs had been identified as playing in "Israeli colonial settlements" and called on FIFA to "fulfil its responsibility to respect human rights"."The autonomy and self-regulation in sport must not be detrimental to fundamental human rights," the experts said.In addition to roughly three million Palestinians, more than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements and outposts in the West Bank, which are illegal under international law.

IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.

FIFA fined the Israeli Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,700) on Thursday for "multiple breaches" of its anti-discrimination obligations. A report by the disciplinary committee of world football's governing body found the IFA "failed to take meaningful action against Beitar Jerusalem" for "persistent and well-documented racist behaviour". In October 2024, the Palestine Football Association reported allegations of discrimination by the IFA to FIFA, which initiated an investigation. FIFA did not opt for the sanction requested by the Palestinian FA, which argued for a suspension of the IFA. Also Read - 'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation But the IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football. The disciplinary committee highlighted "deficient and substantively inadequate" sanctions against Israeli club Beitar for racist and discriminatory behaviour. "Supporters have engaged in persistent and well-documented racist behaviour," the report said of Beitar fans. "The club's use of slogans such as 'forever pure', and the repeated chanting of ethnic slurs such as 'terrorist' directed at Arab players are not isolated incidents but rather form part of a systemic pattern of conduct that offends the basic rules of decent behaviour and brings the sport into disrepute. "The committee underlined that said club is only a small example of a general failure by the IFA." The IFA was issued with a warning and was ordered to display a "significant and highly visible banner" at its next three FIFA competition home matches, stating "Football Unites the World - No to Discrimination". The IFA will also have to invest one-third of the fine towards implementing a plan to "ensure action against discrimination and to prevent repeated incidents". The report also said that the IFA's failure to respond to "political and militaristic messaging" by the CEO of the Israeli professional league and by Maccabi Netanya "further compounds its breach". "The IFA has made no public statements condemning racism, has not launched any Anti Discrimination campaigns, and has not taken steps to foster inclusion of Arab or Palestinian players," the report continued. “It has not used its platform to promote peace or to counteract the politicisation of football by affiliated clubs and officials.” 'No action' over Israeli teams in West Bank After a separate investigation, FIFA announced no action would be taken against the IFA over allegations that Israeli clubs based in the occupied West Bank were taking part in Israel's leagues. "FIFA should take no action given that, in the context of the interpretation of the relevant provisions of the FIFA statutes, the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law," FIFA's governance, audit and compliance committee said in a statement. In 2024, United Nations experts -- mandated by the Human Rights Council but not speaking on behalf of the UN -- said at least eight football clubs had been identified as playing in "Israeli colonial settlements" and called on FIFA to "fulfil its responsibility to respect human rights". "The autonomy and self-regulation in sport must not be detrimental to fundamental human rights," the experts said. In addition to roughly three million Palestinians, more than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements and outposts in the West Bank, which are illegal under international law.

IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.

FIFA reprimands Israeli Football Association for breaching anti-discrimination objectives

The uncertainty over Iran's participation in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 continues amid the ongoing conflict between US-Israel-Iran. on Wednesday (Mar 18), Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj, while receving the women footballers returning from Asian Cup in Australia, reaffirmed that the country will not boycott the quadrennial event. Taj, however, did say that Iran will 'boycott America' but did not elaborate what it meant. FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.<h2>Will Iran play in FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>"The national team is holding a training camp in Turkey, and we will also play two friendly matches there," FFIRI (Iranian football federation) president Taj was quoted as saying by the Fars News ‌Agency as reported by several news outlets. "We will boycott America, but we will not boycott ​the World Cup."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iranian-women-s-team-players-including-those-who-were-granted-assylum-in-australia-return-home-1773898903204">Iranian women's football team players return hom after Austalian asylum episode</a>The statement comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-fifa-not-moving-iran-s-matches-outside-usa-and-expect-teams-to-as-announced-schedule-1773827419514">FIFA hinted at not giving importance to Iran's demand</a> of moving group stage matches outside USA for which the Middle Eastern country said it was 'negotiating with FIFA.'<h2>What next for Iran?</h2>Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup.FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.

The uncertainty over Iran's participation in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 continues amid the ongoing conflict between US-Israel-Iran. on Wednesday (Mar 18), Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj, while receving the women footballers returning from Asian Cup in Australia, reaffirmed that the country will not boycott the quadrennial event. Taj, however, did say that Iran will 'boycott America' but did not elaborate what it meant. FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament. Will Iran play in FIFA World Cup 2026? "The national team is holding a training camp in Turkey, and we will also play two friendly matches there," FFIRI (Iranian football federation) president Taj was quoted as saying by the Fars News ‌Agency as reported by several news outlets. "We will boycott America, but we will not boycott the World Cup." Also Read - Iranian women's football team players return hom after Austalian asylum episode The statement comes after FIFA hinted at not giving importance to Iran's demand of moving group stage matches outside USA for which the Middle Eastern country said it was 'negotiating with FIFA.' What next for Iran? Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.

'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran clears stance on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation

The Iranian women's football team, who was embroiled in asylum drama over the past two weeks and a half, has returned home barring two members of the entourage. Seven members of the Iranian squad had applied for a asylum in Australia during the Asian Cup but five of them, including skipper Zahra Ghanbari, turned back on the decision. The women's team made its way back to Iran through a long route via Malaysia, Oman and then to Istanbul and Turkey’s land Gurbulak-Bazargan border to enter the home country. The members, who were branded 'wartime traitors' by national media not so long ago, will now have a welcome ceremony on Thursday (Mar 19).<h2>Iranian women's football team members go back on Australia asylum - A timeline</h2>The whole drama started when some of the members didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. The players who did not sing the national anthem were declared 'wartime traitors' &nbsp;by the Iranian national media. The players did sing the anthem in the next matches but the narrative had been set by then.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-messi-reaches-900-goal-milestone-breakdown-of-his-career-in-numbers-1773886740778">Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup</a>After the incident, five of the Iranian players escaped the Gold Coast hotel to reach Australian embassy and apply for asylum, which they were granted after a little push from US President Donald Trump.Two more of the squad members including one staff applied for the asylum later on and were granted the request as well.Iran accused Australia of coercing athletes into asylum while activists accused Iran of thretaning the families of athletes over asylum decision.<h2>What next for the women's football team members?</h2>After the athletes were given asylum, Iran changed tone and called the players 'children of homeland', promising a welcome ceremony in Tehran.Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X, said the players are "children of the homeland, and the people of Iran embrace them."Ghalibaf also said that the players "disappointed the enemies [of Iran] and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements," by deciding to comeback to home.Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj was present to welcome the women's team at the border and was quoted saying: "We have all gathered here to say well done and to express our appreciation. Although they are women, they showed manly courage and strength," as reported by the Guardian.

The whole drama started when some of the Iran players didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. Out of 7 who were granted asylum in Australia, 5 decided to return home, leaving only two in island country.

The Iranian women's football team, who was embroiled in asylum drama over the past two weeks and a half, has returned home barring two members of the entourage. Seven members of the Iranian squad had applied for a asylum in Australia during the Asian Cup but five of them, including skipper Zahra Ghanbari, turned back on the decision. The women's team made its way back to Iran through a long route via Malaysia, Oman and then to Istanbul and Turkey’s land Gurbulak-Bazargan border to enter the home country. The members, who were branded 'wartime traitors' by national media not so long ago, will now have a welcome ceremony on Thursday (Mar 19). Iranian women's football team members go back on Australia asylum - A timeline The whole drama started when some of the members didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. The players who did not sing the national anthem were declared 'wartime traitors' by the Iranian national media. The players did sing the anthem in the next matches but the narrative had been set by then. Also Watch - Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup After the incident, five of the Iranian players escaped the Gold Coast hotel to reach Australian embassy and apply for asylum, which they were granted after a little push from US President Donald Trump. Two more of the squad members including one staff applied for the asylum later on and were granted the request as well. Iran accused Australia of coercing athletes into asylum while activists accused Iran of thretaning the families of athletes over asylum decision. What next for the women's football team members? After the athletes were given asylum, Iran changed tone and called the players 'children of homeland', promising a welcome ceremony in Tehran. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X, said the players are "children of the homeland, and the people of Iran embrace them." Ghalibaf also said that the players "disappointed the enemies [of Iran] and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements," by deciding to comeback to home. Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj was present to welcome the women's team at the border and was quoted saying: "We have all gathered here to say well done and to express our appreciation. Although they are women, they showed manly courage and strength," as reported by the Guardian.

The whole drama started when some of the Iran players didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. Out of 7 who were granted asylum in Australia, 5 decided to return home, leaving only two in island country.

Iranian women's football team players, including those who were granted asylum in Australia, return home

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

Champions League | Who's in and who's out? - Check all teams in quarter-finals and last 8 match-ups

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has reached another milestone in his illustrious career - 900 goals. Messi reached the unbelievable mark on Wednesday (Mar 18) against Nashville FC while playing for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 second leg fixture. Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis after the two legs ended at 1-1 aggregate scoreline.<h2>How Messi scored 900th career goal?</h2>Messi's moment came in 7th minute of the game when he put a cross into Nashville's goalpost with utmost ease and gave his team a fighting chance to move into the QFs. Have a look at the goal here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">¡900 veces Lionel Messi! ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/3oLNdqxLno">pic.twitter.com/3oLNdqxLno</a>&mdash; Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheChampions/status/2034408536764006798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suspected-corruption-senegal-government-demands-probe-into-caf-decision-to-award-morocco-afcon-title-1773850555102">Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title</a><h2>Messi's career in numbers</h2>The Argentine superstar is regarded as one of the best ever to play the sport and righfully so, having won Ballon d'Or a record eight times. In club career, he was associated with La Liga club Barcelona for most of his career before before to Paris Saint-Germain for a short time and finally arriving at Inter Miami. Below's a quick FAQ about Messi's career numbers:<h3>Against which team Messi has scored more goals?</h3>Messi has scored most goals - 25 - against La Liga side Sevilla, followed by Athletic Club (24), Atletico Madrid (23), Valencia (18), Real Madrid (17), and Levante (16) as recorded by OPTA.<h3>For which team Messi has scored most goals?</h3>Messi has scored 672 goals for Barcelona, 32 for PSG, 81 for Inter Miami, and 115 for his national side Argentina.<h3>Who else has scored 900 or more goals in career?</h3>Apart from Messi, Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 959 goals - the most in the sport. Ronaldo reached the 900-goal milestone when he scored for Portugal against Croatia in September 2024.<h3>How has Messi scored most of his goals?</h3>According to OPTA, as reported by BBC Sport, Messi has scored 612 of his 900 goals from inside the box, 106 from outside the box, 112 via penalties, and 70 from free kicks.&nbsp;

Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis.

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has reached another milestone in his illustrious career - 900 goals. Messi reached the unbelievable mark on Wednesday (Mar 18) against Nashville FC while playing for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 second leg fixture. Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis after the two legs ended at 1-1 aggregate scoreline. How Messi scored 900th career goal? Messi's moment came in 7th minute of the game when he put a cross into Nashville's goalpost with utmost ease and gave his team a fighting chance to move into the QFs. Have a look at the goal here:

Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis.

Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup - WATCH

Barcelona hit Newcastle United for seven to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, while Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Galatasaray in their last-16 tie and both Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid advanced to the next round. Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. A spectacular match saw Anthony Elanga twice score for Newcastle inside the opening half-hour to cancel out goals by Raphinha and Marc Bernal.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suspected-corruption-senegal-government-demands-probe-into-caf-decision-to-award-morocco-afcon-title-1773850555102">Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title</a>However, the Catalans went back in front when Lamine Yamal converted a penalty deep in first-half stoppage time to make it 3-2 on the night, and they never looked back.Fermin Lopez ran through for 4-2 early in the second half before Lewandowski added a quick-fire double either side of the hour mark, and Raphinha completed the scoring in the 72nd minute."The confidence that we got in the second half was good to see," said Barca coach Hansi Flick.It was a chastening defeat for Newcastle and just the third time since 1955 that an English team has conceded at least eight goals on aggregate in a European tie -- one of the other occasions was this week, when Chelsea lost 8-2 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain."When the game was effectively over we didn't react well to that, so it became a very difficult second half," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe.It was also just the third time Barcelona have scored seven in a Champions League game, and Flick's side can now look forward to an all-Spanish quarter-final next month against Atletico.Diego Simeone's men lost 3-2 on the night to Tottenham Hotspur in London, but progressed 7-5 on aggregate thanks to their 5-2 victory last week.Randal Kolo Muani headed in on the half-hour to give Spurs the lead on the night and suggest a stunning comeback in the tie was possible.A superb Julian Alvarez strike just after half-time doused the home side's hopes, even if a fine Xavi Simons effort put Tottenham back in front.David Hancko headed in Atletico's second on the night, before Simons converted a last-minute penalty for his second of the game as Spurs rescued some pride by ending a run of eight matches without a win.<h2>Half-centuries for Kane, Salah</h2>Liverpool were too good for Galatasaray, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against the Turkish side with a comprehensive 4-0 win at Anfield.Arne Slot's side went ahead on 25 minutes through a lovely first-time finish at a corner from Dominik Szoboszlai.Mohamed Salah then had a poor penalty saved in first-half stoppage time, but the Egyptian made up for that in style after the break.He laid on two goals in the space of three minutes, one for Hugo Ekitike and the other for Ryan Gravenberch.Salah then scored the fourth himself just after the hour, curling a superb effort into the far corner from the edge of the area from a Florian Wirtz lay-off.It was his 10th club goal this season was also his 50th in the Champions League, and it sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory which takes the Reds through to a quarter-final against PSG.That will be a repeat of a last-16 tie a year ago which PSG won on penalties -- the French club have won four knockout ties against English opponents since the start of 2025."We could (have) won 10-0, but we did a good job. We can be proud," said Ekitike.Bayern's progress against Atalanta was never in doubt after their 6-1 win in the first leg in Italy, and they followed that with a 4-1 success in Munich.Harry Kane opened the scoring with a retaken first-half penalty -- his initial effort had been saved -- and then added a brilliant second on 54 minutes.The brace took the Englishman to a half-century of Champions League goals, as he joined Salah and Thierry Henry on that overall mark -- Kane has done it in 66 games compared to 97 for Salah.Teenager Lennart Karl got Bayern's third and Luis Diaz the fourth, with Lazar Samardzic pulling one back as the Germans progress 10-2 on aggregate -- they now face Real Madrid in a heavyweight showdown."We don't fear anyone," Kane told DAZN when asked about the prospect of that tie.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. 

Barcelona hit Newcastle United for seven to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, while Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Galatasaray in their last-16 tie and both Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid advanced to the next round. Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. A spectacular match saw Anthony Elanga twice score for Newcastle inside the opening half-hour to cancel out goals by Raphinha and Marc Bernal. Also Read - Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title However, the Catalans went back in front when Lamine Yamal converted a penalty deep in first-half stoppage time to make it 3-2 on the night, and they never looked back. Fermin Lopez ran through for 4-2 early in the second half before Lewandowski added a quick-fire double either side of the hour mark, and Raphinha completed the scoring in the 72nd minute. "The confidence that we got in the second half was good to see," said Barca coach Hansi Flick. It was a chastening defeat for Newcastle and just the third time since 1955 that an English team has conceded at least eight goals on aggregate in a European tie -- one of the other occasions was this week, when Chelsea lost 8-2 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain. "When the game was effectively over we didn't react well to that, so it became a very difficult second half," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe. It was also just the third time Barcelona have scored seven in a Champions League game, and Flick's side can now look forward to an all-Spanish quarter-final next month against Atletico. Diego Simeone's men lost 3-2 on the night to Tottenham Hotspur in London, but progressed 7-5 on aggregate thanks to their 5-2 victory last week. Randal Kolo Muani headed in on the half-hour to give Spurs the lead on the night and suggest a stunning comeback in the tie was possible. A superb Julian Alvarez strike just after half-time doused the home side's hopes, even if a fine Xavi Simons effort put Tottenham back in front. David Hancko headed in Atletico's second on the night, before Simons converted a last-minute penalty for his second of the game as Spurs rescued some pride by ending a run of eight matches without a win. Half-centuries for Kane, Salah Liverpool were too good for Galatasaray, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against the Turkish side with a comprehensive 4-0 win at Anfield. Arne Slot's side went ahead on 25 minutes through a lovely first-time finish at a corner from Dominik Szoboszlai. Mohamed Salah then had a poor penalty saved in first-half stoppage time, but the Egyptian made up for that in style after the break. He laid on two goals in the space of three minutes, one for Hugo Ekitike and the other for Ryan Gravenberch. Salah then scored the fourth himself just after the hour, curling a superb effort into the far corner from the edge of the area from a Florian Wirtz lay-off. It was his 10th club goal this season was also his 50th in the Champions League, and it sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory which takes the Reds through to a quarter-final against PSG. That will be a repeat of a last-16 tie a year ago which PSG won on penalties -- the French club have won four knockout ties against English opponents since the start of 2025. "We could (have) won 10-0, but we did a good job. We can be proud," said Ekitike. Bayern's progress against Atalanta was never in doubt after their 6-1 win in the first leg in Italy, and they followed that with a 4-1 success in Munich. Harry Kane opened the scoring with a retaken first-half penalty -- his initial effort had been saved -- and then added a brilliant second on 54 minutes. The brace took the Englishman to a half-century of Champions League goals, as he joined Salah and Thierry Henry on that overall mark -- Kane has done it in 66 games compared to 97 for Salah. Teenager Lennart Karl got Bayern's third and Luis Diaz the fourth, with Lazar Samardzic pulling one back as the Germans progress 10-2 on aggregate -- they now face Real Madrid in a heavyweight showdown. "We don't fear anyone," Kane told DAZN when asked about the prospect of that tie.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Champions League R16 | Barcelona, Bayern, Atletico, and Liverpool enter QFs

AFCON 2026 winners, Senegal, have called for an ‘independent international investigation’ into corruption charges following CAF’s decision to strip them of the coveted title and award it to Morocco. It all began after several Senegalese players walked off the pitch during the high-octane final in Rabat in protest of Morocco being awarded a penalty late in the second-half injury time. After team captain Sadio Mane urged the players to return to the field, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal’s Papa Gueye later scored in the extra time to hand his team a memorable win. However, on Tuesday (Mar 17), CAF sensationally reversed Senegal's win, citing regulations about leaving the field.&nbsp;"By calling into question a result achieved at the end of a match that was properly played and won in accordance with the rules of the game, the CAF seriously undermines its own credibility", government spokeswoman Marie Rose Khady Fatou Faye said in a statement. "Senegal unequivocally rejects this unjustified attempt at dispossession", she said, while calling for "an independent international investigation into suspected corruption within the CAF's governing bodies".&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-senegral-forfeited-final-morocco-new-winner-of-africa-cup-of-nations-decalred-confederation-of-african-football-1773805121074">'Senegal forfeited final': Morocco new winner of Africa Cup of Nations, declares Confederation of African Football</a>&nbsp;CAF said that, having studied an appeal by Morocco, "the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the match" and the result was "officially recorded as 3-0" in favour of Morocco.&nbsp;In her statement, Faye called the matter "a grossly illegal and profoundly unjust decision".&nbsp;"Senegal will pursue all appropriate legal avenues, including before the competent international courts, to ensure that justice is served and that the primacy of sporting results is restored", she said.&nbsp;Pending a final arbitration ruling, the secretary-general of the Senegalese Football Federation asked CAF in a letter "to suspend the execution of this decision and to freeze all trophy return procedures in Morocco".&nbsp;The letter also informed CAF of the federation's "intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 48 hours".&nbsp;Faye, in the government's statement, additionally reiterated Senegal's "solidarity with the Senegalese citizens detained in Morocco", referring to 18 fans arrested for "hooliganism" during the match.&nbsp;The fans were sentenced in February to punishments ranging from three months to one year in jail and fines worth up to $545. They were accused of violence against security forces and of causing damage at the match, during which supporters tried to storm the pitch and threw projectiles.&nbsp;The statement said Senegal was "fully committed to monitoring this situation to ensure a positive outcome as soon as possible".&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

The Senegalese government has demanded an independent international probe into suspected corruption within CAF after being stripped of their 2026 AFCON title. As Morocco is awarded a 3-0 forfeit win, find out how Sadio Mane and the FSF are fighting back at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

AFCON 2026 winners, Senegal, have called for an ‘independent international investigation’ into corruption charges following CAF’s decision to strip them of the coveted title and award it to Morocco. It all began after several Senegalese players walked off the pitch during the high-octane final in Rabat in protest of Morocco being awarded a penalty late in the second-half injury time. After team captain Sadio Mane urged the players to return to the field, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal’s Papa Gueye later scored in the extra time to hand his team a memorable win. However, on Tuesday (Mar 17), CAF sensationally reversed Senegal's win, citing regulations about leaving the field. "By calling into question a result achieved at the end of a match that was properly played and won in accordance with the rules of the game, the CAF seriously undermines its own credibility", government spokeswoman Marie Rose Khady Fatou Faye said in a statement. "Senegal unequivocally rejects this unjustified attempt at dispossession", she said, while calling for "an independent international investigation into suspected corruption within the CAF's governing bodies". Also read | 'Senegal forfeited final': Morocco new winner of Africa Cup of Nations, declares Confederation of African Football CAF said that, having studied an appeal by Morocco, "the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the match" and the result was "officially recorded as 3-0" in favour of Morocco. In her statement, Faye called the matter "a grossly illegal and profoundly unjust decision". "Senegal will pursue all appropriate legal avenues, including before the competent international courts, to ensure that justice is served and that the primacy of sporting results is restored", she said. Pending a final arbitration ruling, the secretary-general of the Senegalese Football Federation asked CAF in a letter "to suspend the execution of this decision and to freeze all trophy return procedures in Morocco". The letter also informed CAF of the federation's "intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 48 hours". Faye, in the government's statement, additionally reiterated Senegal's "solidarity with the Senegalese citizens detained in Morocco", referring to 18 fans arrested for "hooliganism" during the match. The fans were sentenced in February to punishments ranging from three months to one year in jail and fines worth up to $545. They were accused of violence against security forces and of causing damage at the match, during which supporters tried to storm the pitch and threw projectiles. The statement said Senegal was "fully committed to monitoring this situation to ensure a positive outcome as soon as possible". (With inputs from AFP)

The Senegalese government has demanded an independent international probe into suspected corruption within CAF after being stripped of their 2026 AFCON title. As Morocco is awarded a 3-0 forfeit win, find out how Sadio Mane and the FSF are fighting back at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

'Suspected Corruption': Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title

FIFA, the apex body of football in the world, has appeared to have shot down Iran's request of moving Football World Cup 2026 matches outside the USA. This development comes as Iran said it is 'negotiating' with the world football body to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-trying-to-pull-a-pakistan-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-middle-eastern-country-negotiating-to-move-matches-outside-usa-1773727139996">move matches outside the USA</a> amid ongoing conflict with US and Israel. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.<h2>FIFA says no to Iran's request of moving matches outside USA?</h2>Iran's football federation head Mehadi Taj had said via the social media handle of country's embassy in Mexico that 'it is negotiating' with FIFA to moves group stage matches outside USA. Iran's statement came after Trump had said that the Middle Eastern country is 'welcome to play' but should 'avoid coming to the USA for their own safety.'Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-to-be-sent-off-fifa-boss-infantino-on-players-covering-mouth-during-argument-in-tournament-1772513674075">Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament</a>Mehadi had cited Trump's comment in his post on X while informing about the negoatiations with FIFA which the apex sports body appears to have shot down,."FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup," said the world body as reported by BBC Sport. "FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025."<h2>What next for Iran?</h2>Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup.FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

FIFA, the apex body of football in the world, has appeared to have shot down Iran's request of moving Football World Cup 2026 matches outside the USA. This development comes as Iran said it is 'negotiating' with the world football body to move matches outside the USA amid ongoing conflict with US and Israel. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. FIFA says no to Iran's request of moving matches outside USA? Iran's football federation head Mehadi Taj had said via the social media handle of country's embassy in Mexico that 'it is negotiating' with FIFA to moves group stage matches outside USA. Iran's statement came after Trump had said that the Middle Eastern country is 'welcome to play' but should 'avoid coming to the USA for their own safety.' Also Read - Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament Mehadi had cited Trump's comment in his post on X while informing about the negoatiations with FIFA which the apex sports body appears to have shot down,. "FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup," said the world body as reported by BBC Sport. "FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025." What next for Iran? Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

Football World Cup 2026 | FIFA not moving Iran's matches outside USA and expect teams to as announced schedule

In an unprecedented decision, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has stripped Senegal of Africa Cup of Nations title and has decalred Morocco as the new winner. The decision comes after a fine of more tha $1m was levied along with a ban on both Senegal and Morocco players during the initial hearing. The result, however, was not touched during the intial hearing of the matter but has been changed now with Morocco being declared 3-0 winner. The whole drama is related to Senegal players leaving the final played in january earler this year mid-match in protest. The Senegal players eventually returned after a 15-minute protest and went to win the match as well, but all for nothing.<h2>Why Senegal has been stripped of Africa Cup of Nations trophy?</h2>The Senegal players had left the pitch to mark their protest against Morocco being awarded a penalty in the final. The players eventualy returned 15 minutes later and the match continued. The same has been cited as the reason by CAF to strip Senegal off the title. The CAF said that Senegral "declared to have forfeited the final."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-host-iran-football-world-cup-matches-if-fifa-approves-mexico-president-us-donald-trump-1773770109017">'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President</a>"The CAF appeal board decided that in application of article 84 of the regulations of the Caf Africa Cup of Nations, the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the final match of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, with the result of the match being recorded as 3–0 in favour of the Federation Royale Marocaine de Football."It is declared that the Federation Senegalaise de Football, through the conduct of its team, infringed article 82 of the regulations of the Africa Cup of Nations," it added.<h2>What did Morocco say about being declared winners?</h2>"The federation wishes to recall that its approach has never been intended to challenge the sporting performance of the teams participating in this competition, but solely to request the application of the competition’s regulations," said the new winners in a statement.“The federation reaffirms its commitment to respecting the rules, ensuring clarity in the competitive framework, and maintaining stability within African competitions.”

The whole drama is related to Senegal players leaving the final played in january earler this year mid-match in protest. The Senegal players eventually returned after a 15-minute protest and went to win the match as well, but all for nothing.

In an unprecedented decision, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has stripped Senegal of Africa Cup of Nations title and has decalred Morocco as the new winner. The decision comes after a fine of more tha $1m was levied along with a ban on both Senegal and Morocco players during the initial hearing. The result, however, was not touched during the intial hearing of the matter but has been changed now with Morocco being declared 3-0 winner. The whole drama is related to Senegal players leaving the final played in january earler this year mid-match in protest. The Senegal players eventually returned after a 15-minute protest and went to win the match as well, but all for nothing. Why Senegal has been stripped of Africa Cup of Nations trophy? The Senegal players had left the pitch to mark their protest against Morocco being awarded a penalty in the final. The players eventualy returned 15 minutes later and the match continued. The same has been cited as the reason by CAF to strip Senegal off the title. The CAF said that Senegral "declared to have forfeited the final." Also Read - 'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President "The CAF appeal board decided that in application of article 84 of the regulations of the Caf Africa Cup of Nations, the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the final match of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, with the result of the match being recorded as 3–0 in favour of the Federation Royale Marocaine de Football. "It is declared that the Federation Senegalaise de Football, through the conduct of its team, infringed article 82 of the regulations of the Africa Cup of Nations," it added. What did Morocco say about being declared winners? "The federation wishes to recall that its approach has never been intended to challenge the sporting performance of the teams participating in this competition, but solely to request the application of the competition’s regulations," said the new winners in a statement. “The federation reaffirms its commitment to respecting the rules, ensuring clarity in the competitive framework, and maintaining stability within African competitions.”

The whole drama is related to Senegal players leaving the final played in january earler this year mid-match in protest. The Senegal players eventually returned after a 15-minute protest and went to win the match as well, but all for nothing.

'Senegal forfeited final': Morocco new winner of Africa Cup of Nations, decalres Confederation of African Football

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-ready-to-host-iran-football-world-cup-matches-if-fifa-approves-mexico-president-us-donald-trump-1773770109017">'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President</a>Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish.Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour."We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus.PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg.Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm.Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season.<h2>Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt</h2>Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night."All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running.Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match.Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success.They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice.Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen."We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta.His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals.The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon.Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time.Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end.Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain, record 15-time winners Real Madrid and Arsenal surged into the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Tuesday, while Sporting produced a brilliant comeback in Portugal to end Bodo/Glimt's remarkable run. PSG appear to be coming back into the form which saw them win the Champions League for the first time in their history last season, as the French club crushed Chelsea 3-0 in London to claim a comprehensive 8-2 aggregate victory in their last-16 tie. Chelsea had been left with a mountain to climb after a late collapse in last week's first leg, and PSG quickly snuffed out any chance the English club had. Also Read - 'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup games if FIFA approves': Mexico President Khvicha Kvaratskhelia followed his first-leg double by opening the scoring on six minutes at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea defender Mamadou Sarr misjudging a long ball on his Champions League debut and then being outmuscled by the Georgian who applied the finish. Bradley Barcola fired in a brilliant second goal from an Achraf Hakimi assist, and the home fans were streaming for the exits when substitute Senny Mayulu swept in PSG's third on the night just after the hour. "We clearly dominated, we are very happy to be in the quarter-finals and I think it is well deserved," PSG coach Luis Enrique told Canal Plus. PSG's fourth victory against English opposition in a two-legged knockout tie since the start of last year sets up a last-eight tie against Liverpool or Galatasaray, who meet on Wednesday at Anfield with the Turkish side leading 1-0 from the first leg. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate. Real led 3-0 from the first leg in Spain, where Federico Valverde scored a hat-trick, and their qualification was never in doubt after City's Bernardo Silva was sent off on 20 minutes for stopping a goalbound Vinicius Junior shot on the line with his arm. Vinicius converted the penalty, and Pep Guardiola's side had too much to do, even if Erling Haaland levelled the scores on the night before half-time with his 30th goal this season. Sporting comeback sinks Bodo/Glimt Real replaced Thibaut Courtois with Andriy Lunin in goal at half-time, and the tie was over long before Vinicius scored again in stoppage time to seal the win on the night. "All of us players know that the good games are coming and when Madrid play in this competition, everything changes," said Vinicius, as Real knocked City out for the third season running. Real are almost certain to face Bayern Munich in a heavyweight quarter-final, with the Germans 6-1 up against Atalanta before Wednesday's return match. Premier League leaders Arsenal's dream of a quadruple remains alive after they beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium for a 3-1 aggregate success. They had needed a late penalty to draw in Germany last week, and finished the tie off in the return with goals either side of half-time from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice. Eze broke the deadlock with a long-range rocket late in the first half and Rice's composed finish killed off Leverkusen. "We had four or five situations where we should have scored a third but overall we fully deserved to win and be into the quarter-finals," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta. His team now face Manchester City in the English League Cup final on Sunday, and will play Sporting in the quarter-finals. The Portuguese champions produced a superb fightback, overturning a 3-0 deficit from last week's first leg against Bodo/Glimt by beating the Norwegians 5-0 after extra time in Lisbon. Goncalo Inacio and Pedro Goncalves scored before a Luis Suarez penalty on 78 minutes forced extra time. Uruguayan full-back Maxi Araujo gave Sporting the lead in the tie for the first time in the 92nd minute, and Rafael Nel made sure of their progress with the fifth right at the end. Bodo/Glimt's fantastic run comes to an end as Sporting reach the quarters of Europe's elite club competition for the first time since 1983.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Sporting enter last 8 of Champions League. Two-time European champions Chelsea were not the only English club to be eliminated on Tuesday, with Manchester City losing 2-1 at home to Real as they went out 5-1 on aggregate.

Champions League | PSG, Real Madrid, Arsenal through last 8; Bodo/Glimt's fairy tale run ends

Mexico is willing to host Iran’s football World Cup matches should FIFA approve it, said the country’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, on Tuesday (Mar 17). Amid raging conflicts with the US and Israel in West Asia, Iran decided against travelling to America for the FIFA World Cup starting in June, also co-hosted by Mexico and Canada. Placed in Group G, Iran will play all its league phase matches in America, with the US President warning them against risking their ‘safety and life’ should they decide to travel to the US for the showpiece event.&nbsp;In the latest development, Iran’s football federation has requested FIFA to move its World Cup matches out of the US to Mexico amid growing concerns for its players’ safety following the US-Israel joint attack on Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-trying-to-pull-a-pakistan-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-middle-eastern-country-negotiating-to-move-matches-outside-usa-1773727139996">Iran trying to pull a Pakistan in FIFA World Cup 2026? Middle Eastern country 'negotiating' to move matches outside USA</a> &nbsp;An X account of Iran’s embassy in Mexico, which posted a statement late on Monday night, attributed to the president of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, reacted to Trump's remarks on welcoming Iran to play their scheduled World Cup matches in America, but without assuring their team's safety, while suggesting that they stay home instead.&nbsp; &nbsp;“When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” the statement read. “We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“Negociamos con la FIFA”: La federación iraní informó que está en búsqueda de jugar sus partidos del Mundial 2026 en México y no en Estados Unidos como estaba pactado. ⚽🌎<a href="https://t.co/yLyHHmqrCm">https://t.co/yLyHHmqrCm</a> <a href="https://t.co/V3YYa4bCVE">pic.twitter.com/V3YYa4bCVE</a>&mdash; El Financiero (@ElFinanciero_Mx) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElFinanciero_Mx/status/2033758111530721510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Per the released schedule, Iran will play Belgium and New Zealand in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the football’s governing body said The Athletic that the scheduled World Cup matches remain as scheduled.&nbsp; &nbsp;“FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including IR Iran, to discuss planning for the FIFA World Cup 2026,” the spokesperson said. “FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025.”

Amid escalating West Asia tensions and safety warnings from the US President, Iran is negotiating a historic move for its Group G fixtures from the United States to Mexico. Get the latest on FIFA's response.

Mexico is willing to host Iran’s football World Cup matches should FIFA approve it, said the country’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, on Tuesday (Mar 17). Amid raging conflicts with the US and Israel in West Asia, Iran decided against travelling to America for the FIFA World Cup starting in June, also co-hosted by Mexico and Canada. Placed in Group G, Iran will play all its league phase matches in America, with the US President warning them against risking their ‘safety and life’ should they decide to travel to the US for the showpiece event. In the latest development, Iran’s football federation has requested FIFA to move its World Cup matches out of the US to Mexico amid growing concerns for its players’ safety following the US-Israel joint attack on Iran. Also read | Iran trying to pull a Pakistan in FIFA World Cup 2026? Middle Eastern country 'negotiating' to move matches outside USA An X account of Iran’s embassy in Mexico, which posted a statement late on Monday night, attributed to the president of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, reacted to Trump's remarks on welcoming Iran to play their scheduled World Cup matches in America, but without assuring their team's safety, while suggesting that they stay home instead. “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America,” the statement read. “We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico.”

Amid escalating West Asia tensions and safety warnings from the US President, Iran is negotiating a historic move for its Group G fixtures from the United States to Mexico. Get the latest on FIFA's response.

'We are ready to host Iran’s World Cup matches if FIFA approves': Mexico President

After US President Donald Trump warned Iran to come to the US for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 at 'their own risk', the Middle Eastern country is negotiating with the FIFA to move first round matches out of the USA. Iran is scheduled to play its Group G matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before facing Egypt in Seattle. Iran's statement came amid the country's uncertainty over particiapting in the upcoming FIFA tournament because of ongoing US-Israel-Iran war. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada from Jun 11 to Jul 19.<h2>Iran to play its FIFA World Cup 2026 maches outside USA?</h2>"When (US President Donald) Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America," Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said via the country's Mexican embassy X account. "We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-general-secretary-iran-still-slated-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-despite-withdrawal-rumors-us-president-donald-trump-iran-israel-war-usa-1773648150617">AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours</a>Earlier, Mehdi had claimed that it is diffcult for 'Iran to participate' in the FIFA event, given in the ongoing geopolitical situation. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, on question of Iran playing the World Cup matches in the USA, had said that Trump assured him of 'welcoming' Iran in the USA.Shortly after Trump said that Iran is 'welcome' to play the FIFA World Cup 2026 but 'should come to the USA at own risk.'<h2>Iran's schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington.

Earlier, Mehdi had claimed that it is diffcult for 'Iran to participate' in the FIFA event, given in the ongoing geopolitical situation. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, on question of Iran playing the World Cup matches in the USA, had said that Trump assured him of 'welcoming' Iran in the USA.

After US President Donald Trump warned Iran to come to the US for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 at 'their own risk', the Middle Eastern country is negotiating with the FIFA to move first round matches out of the USA. Iran is scheduled to play its Group G matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles before facing Egypt in Seattle. Iran's statement came amid the country's uncertainty over particiapting in the upcoming FIFA tournament because of ongoing US-Israel-Iran war. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran to play its FIFA World Cup 2026 maches outside USA? "When (US President Donald) Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America," Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said via the country's Mexican embassy X account. "We are currently negotiating with FIFA to hold Iran’s matches in the World Cup in Mexico," he added. Also Read - AFC: Iran still slated for World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours Earlier, Mehdi had claimed that it is diffcult for 'Iran to participate' in the FIFA event, given in the ongoing geopolitical situation. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, on question of Iran playing the World Cup matches in the USA, had said that Trump assured him of 'welcoming' Iran in the USA. Shortly after Trump said that Iran is 'welcome' to play the FIFA World Cup 2026 but 'should come to the USA at own risk.' Iran's schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026 Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington.

Earlier, Mehdi had claimed that it is diffcult for 'Iran to participate' in the FIFA event, given in the ongoing geopolitical situation. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, on question of Iran playing the World Cup matches in the USA, had said that Trump assured him of 'welcoming' Iran in the USA.

Iran trying to pull a Pakistan in FIFA World Cup 2026? Middle Eastern country 'negotiating' to move matches outside USA

Kylian Mbappe is ready to return from injury as Real Madrid aim to eliminate Manchester City in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday. Mbappe was sidelined by a knee injury for Real's 3-0 win over City in the first leg in Madrid last week. But the France forward, who has scored 38 goals in 33 appearances this season, is set to feature at the Etihad Stadium."Mbappe is ready to play," Real boss Alvaro Arbeloa told reporters on Monday.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eden-hazard-willian-transfers-investigated-premier-league-punishes-chelsea-with-10-75m-fine-suspended-transfer-ban-2026-1773676350418">Hazard, Willian Transfers Investigated: PL punishes Chelsea with £10.75m fine</a>"I cannot wait to see him back on the pitch, to enjoy watching him play, to score the goals he scores. Of course he'll be important."England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City."Bellingham wanted to come with his team-mates," Arbeloa said."I'm very happy to see him getting closer to the team. It is important to be around his team-mates, during the team-talk and at half-time he'll be one of the leaders as he always is."Real are expected to knock City out of the Champions League for a third successive season after establishing a substantial first leg advantage.Real defender Antonio Rudiger believes the key to victory is stopping City striker Erling Haaland from rediscovering his top form after a poor recent run."Players like Haaland, it's a huge pleasure to play against this type of player," Rudiger said."I like the physical battle, I want it and need it, the same as him. I'm looking forward to it."He's a world-class striker, very strong, and I like these type of duels."Rudiger acknowledged his combative approach as he addressed recent claims from Getafe defender Diego Rico about his conduct.Rico said Rudiger committed an "assault" against him in a challenge earlier this month."In slow motion it looks terrible but in the action itself and also what the player said, it was like I almost killed him," Rudiger said."He doesn't need to exaggerate because if I'd had the intention to do that he wouldn't have stood up."I don't justify it but the way he spoke after the game was like I killed him, but he was running afterwards."We all know I like to be tough on the pitch but I still have boundaries. I am a human being."

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City.

Kylian Mbappe is ready to return from injury as Real Madrid aim to eliminate Manchester City in the Champions League last-16 second leg on Tuesday. Mbappe was sidelined by a knee injury for Real's 3-0 win over City in the first leg in Madrid last week. But the France forward, who has scored 38 goals in 33 appearances this season, is set to feature at the Etihad Stadium. "Mbappe is ready to play," Real boss Alvaro Arbeloa told reporters on Monday. Also Read - Hazard, Willian Transfers Investigated: PL punishes Chelsea with £10.75m fine "I cannot wait to see him back on the pitch, to enjoy watching him play, to score the goals he scores. Of course he'll be important." England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City. "Bellingham wanted to come with his team-mates," Arbeloa said. "I'm very happy to see him getting closer to the team. It is important to be around his team-mates, during the team-talk and at half-time he'll be one of the leaders as he always is." Real are expected to knock City out of the Champions League for a third successive season after establishing a substantial first leg advantage. Real defender Antonio Rudiger believes the key to victory is stopping City striker Erling Haaland from rediscovering his top form after a poor recent run. "Players like Haaland, it's a huge pleasure to play against this type of player," Rudiger said. "I like the physical battle, I want it and need it, the same as him. I'm looking forward to it. "He's a world-class striker, very strong, and I like these type of duels." Rudiger acknowledged his combative approach as he addressed recent claims from Getafe defender Diego Rico about his conduct. Rico said Rudiger committed an "assault" against him in a challenge earlier this month. "In slow motion it looks terrible but in the action itself and also what the player said, it was like I almost killed him," Rudiger said. "He doesn't need to exaggerate because if I'd had the intention to do that he wouldn't have stood up. "I don't justify it but the way he spoke after the game was like I killed him, but he was running afterwards. "We all know I like to be tough on the pitch but I still have boundaries. I am a human being."

England midfielder Jude Bellingham has also travelled with the Real squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring problem, but is not ready to feature against City.

Champions League R16: Mbappe to turn up for Real Madrid vs Man City in second leg

Chelsea have been fined £10.75 million ($14.27 million) and received a suspended one-year transfer ban in relation to historical breaches of Premier League rules, it was announced on Monday. The London club have also been hit with an immediate nine-month academy transfer ban, the Premier League said. The sanctions relate to information shared with the league by the consortium led by American businessman Todd Boehly following their takeover of Chelsea from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich in 2022.&nbsp;The Premier League found that between 2011 and 2018, undisclosed payments by third parties associated with Chelsea were made to players, unregistered agents and others.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-general-secretary-iran-still-slated-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-despite-withdrawal-rumors-us-president-donald-trump-iran-israel-war-usa-1773648150617">AFC: Iran still slated for FIFA World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours</a>&nbsp;However, the league determined that even if the payments had been properly included in historical financial submissions, the club would not have been in breach of the profitability and sustainability rules (PSR).&nbsp;Officials said that Chelsea's "proactive self-reporting, admissions of breach and exceptional co-operation" were also mitigating circumstances when it came to deciding the severity of the punishments to be imposed upon the west London side.&nbsp;Chelsea have also been charged by the Football Association with 74 alleged breaches of the English governing body's rules, also in connection with the information shared by the Blues' new owners.&nbsp;Responding to Monday's announcement, the club issued a statement saying: "Chelsea Football Club is pleased to confirm that the club has reached a settlement with the Premier League in relation to historical regulatory matters that were self-reported by the club in 2022."&nbsp;The Blues also said they welcomed the Premier League's recognition of its "exceptional co-operation" and that "without those voluntary disclosures and the act of self-reporting, a number of the Premier League rule breaches may never have come to the attention of the League".&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Premier League has slapped Chelsea with a record £10.75m fine following an investigation into historical transfers like Eden Hazard and Willian. Full details on the suspended ban and the academy sanctions inside.

Chelsea have been fined £10.75 million ($14.27 million) and received a suspended one-year transfer ban in relation to historical breaches of Premier League rules, it was announced on Monday. The London club have also been hit with an immediate nine-month academy transfer ban, the Premier League said. The sanctions relate to information shared with the league by the consortium led by American businessman Todd Boehly following their takeover of Chelsea from Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich in 2022. The Premier League found that between 2011 and 2018, undisclosed payments by third parties associated with Chelsea were made to players, unregistered agents and others. Also read | AFC: Iran still slated for FIFA World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours However, the league determined that even if the payments had been properly included in historical financial submissions, the club would not have been in breach of the profitability and sustainability rules (PSR). Officials said that Chelsea's "proactive self-reporting, admissions of breach and exceptional co-operation" were also mitigating circumstances when it came to deciding the severity of the punishments to be imposed upon the west London side. Chelsea have also been charged by the Football Association with 74 alleged breaches of the English governing body's rules, also in connection with the information shared by the Blues' new owners. Responding to Monday's announcement, the club issued a statement saying: "Chelsea Football Club is pleased to confirm that the club has reached a settlement with the Premier League in relation to historical regulatory matters that were self-reported by the club in 2022." The Blues also said they welcomed the Premier League's recognition of its "exceptional co-operation" and that "without those voluntary disclosures and the act of self-reporting, a number of the Premier League rule breaches may never have come to the attention of the League". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The Premier League has slapped Chelsea with a record £10.75m fine following an investigation into historical transfers like Eden Hazard and Willian. Full details on the suspended ban and the academy sanctions inside.

Hazard, Willian Transfers Investigated: Premier League punishes Chelsea with £10.75m fine

Iran will feature at the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) general secretary Windsor Paul John said, dismissing talks around Iran’s potential boycott amid the raging conflict with the US and Israel in West Asia. Despite Iran’s sports minister’s claims on the state television of its men’s team's withdrawal from the 48-team tournament to be held in North America, and also US President Donald Trump’s ‘warning’, Iran would continue to go ahead with its participation. The Asian football body said they haven’t received any notification of them pulling out yet.&nbsp;American President Trump warned Iran on Thursday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-us-president-donald-trump-warns-of-life-threatening-risks-for-iran-football-team-on-us-soil-iran-israel-war-1773331731117">their ‘life and safety’ could be at risk</a> should they attend the summer’s football extravaganza.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to The World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP (TS: 12 Mar 11:00 ET)​​​‍​​‌‍​​‌‍​​​​​​​‌‍​​​‌‍​​‌‍…&mdash; Commentary: Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpTruthOnX/status/2032111623020986631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the ongoing war in the Middle East, triggered by US-Israeli strikes on February 28, has thrown into doubt Iran's participation.&nbsp;"As far as we know, Iran is playing," said Windsor Paul John, the Asian Football Confederation's general secretary. "We are monitoring whether they are playing or not, but at the moment they are. There is no official information that they are not playing," he told a press conference at the AFC's headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.&nbsp;Windsor stressed that the AFC wanted Iran, a "top team", to play in the global showpiece.&nbsp;"So, we hope that they will solve their issues... and be able to participate in the World Cup," he said.&nbsp;Earlier, Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, said the Iranian team was welcome, "but I really don't believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety."&nbsp;On the other hand, the captain of the Iranian women's football team, which played in the Asian Cup in Australia, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3-more-iranian-women-footballers-leave-asylum-in-australia-amid-threat-back-home-iran-israel-war-national-anthem-traitors-1773554319180">withdrew her bid for asylum</a> on Sunday. Seven members of Iran's visiting football delegation competing in the Women's Asian Cup had sought sanctuary in Australia after they were branded "traitors" at home for refusing to sing the national anthem.&nbsp;Following the captain's reported move to go back on her asylum request, only two of them are now set to remain in Australia.&nbsp;A former player and a Persian-language TV channel based outside Iran said the players had been pressured to reverse their stance through threats against families.&nbsp;Iranian authorities accused Australia of pressuring the players to stay.&nbsp;The players returning to Iran were at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur awaiting their onward travel.&nbsp;Asked about the women's immediate future, Windsor said the AFC was waiting for word from the team "when they want to leave."&nbsp;"It's their decision, and we will support that," he said.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

AFC General Secretary Windsor Paul John confirms Iran is still slated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite withdrawal rumours and warnings from Donald Trump.

Iran will feature at the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) general secretary Windsor Paul John said, dismissing talks around Iran’s potential boycott amid the raging conflict with the US and Israel in West Asia. Despite Iran’s sports minister’s claims on the state television of its men’s team's withdrawal from the 48-team tournament to be held in North America, and also US President Donald Trump’s ‘warning’, Iran would continue to go ahead with its participation. The Asian football body said they haven’t received any notification of them pulling out yet. American President Trump warned Iran on Thursday that their ‘life and safety’ could be at risk should they attend the summer’s football extravaganza.

AFC General Secretary Windsor Paul John confirms Iran is still slated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite withdrawal rumours and warnings from Donald Trump.

AFC: Iran still slated for FIFA World Cup participation despite withdrawal rumours

With Arsenal’s Dowman breaking the record for the youngest goal scorer in PL history, it’s time we look at the top five youngest players to hit their first Premier League goal. The list features two Champions League winners.

With Arsenal’s Dowman breaking the record for the youngest goal scorer in PL history, it’s time we look at the top five youngest players to hit their first Premier League goal. The list features two Champions League winners.

Max Dowman to Wayne Rooney: The 5 youngest goal scorers in Premier League history

Three more members of the Iranian women’s football team have changed their minds and left their asylum in Australia to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said in a statement on Sunday (Mar 15). More than half a dozen players of Iran’s visiting delegation at the Women’s Asian Cup sought refuge in Australia after their government labelled them as ‘traitors’ for refusing to sing the national anthem.&nbsp;Only three players are left now after another member of the group left to rejoin the Iranian women’s team earlier in the week. &nbsp;Detailing the latest developments, the Home Affairs minister said the relevant authorities had given them repeated opportunities to reconsider their final call, adding that the players faced an incredibly difficult time making their decisions.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/amid-chaos-five-iranian-women-s-football-players-given-asylum-in-australia-1773102820461">Amid chaos, five Iranian women's football players given asylum in Australia</a> &nbsp;"Overnight, three members of the Iranian Women's Football Team made the decision to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran," Tony Burke said. "After telling Australian officials they had made this decision, the players were given repeated chances to talk about their options," he said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the football drama has unfolded against a backdrop of war in the Middle East, unleashed by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. Rights groups have repeatedly accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or with the seizure of property if they defect or make statements against the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;"The Australian Government has done everything we could to make sure these women were provided with the chance for a safe future in Australia," Burke said. "Australians should be proud that it was in our country that these women experienced a nation presenting them with genuine choices and interacted with authorities seeking to help them."&nbsp;Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said on Saturday that three team members -- two players and one member of the technical staff -- had withdrawn their asylum applications and were currently en route to Malaysia.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Three more Iranian women’s football team members have withdrawn their asylum bids in Australia to return to Iran. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players chose to rejoin their team despite being labeled "traitors" and facing potential threats at home.

Three more members of the Iranian women’s football team have changed their minds and left their asylum in Australia to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran, Australia’s Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said in a statement on Sunday (Mar 15). More than half a dozen players of Iran’s visiting delegation at the Women’s Asian Cup sought refuge in Australia after their government labelled them as ‘traitors’ for refusing to sing the national anthem. Only three players are left now after another member of the group left to rejoin the Iranian women’s team earlier in the week. Detailing the latest developments, the Home Affairs minister said the relevant authorities had given them repeated opportunities to reconsider their final call, adding that the players faced an incredibly difficult time making their decisions. Also read | Amid chaos, five Iranian women's football players given asylum in Australia "Overnight, three members of the Iranian Women's Football Team made the decision to join the rest of the team on their journey back to Iran," Tony Burke said. "After telling Australian officials they had made this decision, the players were given repeated chances to talk about their options," he said. Meanwhile, the football drama has unfolded against a backdrop of war in the Middle East, unleashed by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. Rights groups have repeatedly accused Iranian authorities of pressuring athletes abroad by threatening relatives or with the seizure of property if they defect or make statements against the Islamic Republic. "The Australian Government has done everything we could to make sure these women were provided with the chance for a safe future in Australia," Burke said. "Australians should be proud that it was in our country that these women experienced a nation presenting them with genuine choices and interacted with authorities seeking to help them." Iranian state broadcaster IRIB said on Saturday that three team members -- two players and one member of the technical staff -- had withdrawn their asylum applications and were currently en route to Malaysia. (With inputs from AFP)

Three more Iranian women’s football team members have withdrawn their asylum bids in Australia to return to Iran. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed the players chose to rejoin their team despite being labeled "traitors" and facing potential threats at home.

More Iranian women’s footballers leave asylum in Australia amid threat back home

Arsenal’s teenager, Max Dowman, at 16 years and 73 days, became the youngest-ever goal-scorer in Premier League and Gunners’ history, helping his side beat Everton on Saturday (Mar 14) and take a nine-point lead against Manchester City, who stumbled in a 1-1 draw at West Ham. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal is chasing its first Premier League title in 22 years, and with nine points and one game in hand over their closest rivals, they have a chance to realise their dream this season. Meanwhile, City boss Pep Guardiola has insisted that the title race is not over yet, adding that the former champions will do everything possible to chase another PL trophy.&nbsp;Arsenal struggled to break down obdurate Everton until the teenage substitute turned the game in the final moments. Viktor Gyokeres finally found a way through in the 89th minute, with a helping hand from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who flapped at Dowman's cross. The ensuing scenes of delirium on the pitch and in the stands underlined the significance of a fourth successive league win.&nbsp;There was still time for Dowman to run the length of the pitch and slot into an empty net with Pickford nowhere to be seen after coming up for an Everton corner in stoppage time.&nbsp;Watch Dowman's goal vs Everton -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Max&#39;s magic moment ✨ <a href="https://t.co/TauqiaH7zO">pic.twitter.com/TauqiaH7zO</a>&mdash; Arsenal (@Arsenal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal/status/2032940081636585597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"He changed the game every time he got the ball. He made things happen, and we looked like more of a threat," Arteta said of the 16-year-old. "To do it at that age, in this context, with the pressure and expectations to win the game, it's just not normal."&nbsp;Arsenal, trophyless since 2020, remain in the hunt for a quadruple.&nbsp;The leaders rode their luck to beat a depleted Everton, adding to the mounting feeling that they will be one of the least stylistically impressive champions in recent memory if they do take the crown.&nbsp;But Arteta and company won't care about that ahead of a huge week.&nbsp;The Gunners have a Champions League last-16 second leg against Bayer Leverkusen next week, with the tie level at 1-1, before heading to Wembley to face City in the League Cup final.<h3>Man City, down but not out!</h3>On the other hand, City's season is in danger of coming off the rails as West Ham clung on for a point that lifted them out of the relegation zone for the first time in three months. Pep Guardiola's men were thrashed 3-0 by Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in midweek and have dropped four points to sides battling relegation in their last two Premier League outings.&nbsp;Bernardo Silva's attempted cross floated in at the far post to give City the lead at the London Stadium. But the advantage lasted less than four minutes before Konstantinos Mavropanos headed in from a corner.&nbsp;City dominated the second half but failed to find a way through as Erling Haaland's barren spell in front of goal goes on.&nbsp;"It's not over. Who said that? We didn't lose. We will continue," Pep said of City’s title chances this season. "Nine points is a lot against Arsenal, but it happened. We have the game at home, so we have to try until the end.&nbsp;"When it is not possible, then we congratulate the champion, but we have to try,” he continued.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Max Dowman makes history! At 16, the teenager becomes the youngest-ever Premier League scorer as Arsenal beat Everton to go 9 points clear of Manchester City. Watch the record-breaking goal and see how Mikel Arteta’s side moved one step closer to their first title in 22 years.

Arsenal’s teenager, Max Dowman, at 16 years and 73 days, became the youngest-ever goal-scorer in Premier League and Gunners’ history, helping his side beat Everton on Saturday (Mar 14) and take a nine-point lead against Manchester City, who stumbled in a 1-1 draw at West Ham. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal is chasing its first Premier League title in 22 years, and with nine points and one game in hand over their closest rivals, they have a chance to realise their dream this season. Meanwhile, City boss Pep Guardiola has insisted that the title race is not over yet, adding that the former champions will do everything possible to chase another PL trophy. Arsenal struggled to break down obdurate Everton until the teenage substitute turned the game in the final moments. Viktor Gyokeres finally found a way through in the 89th minute, with a helping hand from Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who flapped at Dowman's cross. The ensuing scenes of delirium on the pitch and in the stands underlined the significance of a fourth successive league win. There was still time for Dowman to run the length of the pitch and slot into an empty net with Pickford nowhere to be seen after coming up for an Everton corner in stoppage time. Watch Dowman's goal vs Everton -

Max Dowman makes history! At 16, the teenager becomes the youngest-ever Premier League scorer as Arsenal beat Everton to go 9 points clear of Manchester City. Watch the record-breaking goal and see how Mikel Arteta’s side moved one step closer to their first title in 22 years.

Dowman, 16, makes Premier League history as Arsenal move 9 points clear; Pep insists title race isn't over

US President Donald Trump has welcomed Iran to the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be staged in America, Mexico and Canada, but warned its football team of life-threatening risks on US soil. Just a day after Iran’s sports minister Ahmad Donyamali said on state television that the Iran men’s football team will withdraw from the showpiece event, citing the killing of its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by America, US President Trump admitted it might not be ‘appropriate’ for them to participate amid escalating war involving the two and Israel in West Asia.&nbsp;Taking to his Truth Social handle, US President Trump wrote, “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to the World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Iran’s sports minister’s remarks indicated that Iran has all but pulled out of the 48-team tournament starting June 11. Speaking on the state television, he said, “Considering that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we participate in the World Cup. Our children are not safe, and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist. &nbsp;“Given the malicious actions they have carried out against Iran, they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Therefore, we certainly cannot have such a presence," the Iranian minister added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino earlier revealed that Trump told him that he welcomes Iran's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026. However, FIFA hasn’t yet addressed the security dynamics around Iran’s participation or its implications if it withdraws from the competition.<h3>Iran at FIFA World Cup 2026</h3>If Iran officially withdraws from the 2026 World Cup, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-replace-iran-at-fifa-world-cup-2026-after-sports-minister-cannot-participate-claim-iraq-uae-donald-trump-israel-us-war-west-asia-conflict-1773246224722">FIFA will have to pick a new team to take its spot</a>. Currently, Iraq and the UAE are the top candidates to join the tournament. &nbsp;As the highest-ranked Asian team yet to qualify, Iraq is the frontrunner to replace Iran, should they miss out via the inter-confederation play-offs. Currently, Iraq is set to face either Bolivia or Suriname in the play-off final on March 31.

US President Trump warns Iranian footballers of "life-threatening risks" on US soil during the 2026 World Cup. As tensions escalate and a boycott looms, get the latest on the FIFA security crisis.

US President Donald Trump has welcomed Iran to the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be staged in America, Mexico and Canada, but warned its football team of life-threatening risks on US soil. Just a day after Iran’s sports minister Ahmad Donyamali said on state television that the Iran men’s football team will withdraw from the showpiece event, citing the killing of its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by America, US President Trump admitted it might not be ‘appropriate’ for them to participate amid escalating war involving the two and Israel in West Asia. Taking to his Truth Social handle, US President Trump wrote, “The Iran National Soccer Team is welcome to the World Cup, but I really don’t believe it is appropriate that they be there, for their own life and safety."

US President Trump warns Iranian footballers of "life-threatening risks" on US soil during the 2026 World Cup. As tensions escalate and a boycott looms, get the latest on the FIFA security crisis.

FIFA World Cup: Trump warns of life-threatening risks for Iran’s footballers on US soil

Barcelona snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat against Newcastle in Champions League R16 first match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at St James' Park but a Barca fan was left gutted. The Spanish fan, who had decided to travel from London to saw his team play, ended up 366 miles (590 km approx) away from the venue but still at St James Park. The stadium where he ended up going was Exeter City football club home ground - also called St James Park. The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad fan.<h2>How did Barcelona fan end up going 366 miles away from venue of Newcastle Champions League match?</h2>Adam Spencer, Exeter’s supporter experience officer, explained the situation as reported by the Guradian and said: "My guess is he’d put St James Park in his phone and then just followed the directions from there. He was pretty gutted and a bit embarrassed. So we sorted him out a ticket and he got to watch a game at the real St James Park. He’d be welcome back any time."Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-watch-chelsea-s-pedro-neto-shoves-ball-boy-during-humiliating-loss-vs-psg-1773281509463">Champions League | Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG</a>“One of our volunteers came to the office to let us know that this guy had turned up expecting to see FC ­Barcelona. His English wasn’t great, but from what we could gather, he’d come from London," Spencer also informed.<h2>What happened in the match?</h2>Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona but teenager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-watch-lamine-yamal-saves-barcelona-vs-newcastle-in-historic-ucl-appearance-1773192698176">Lamine Yamal had different plans</a>. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team.

 The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincold City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad Barcelona fan.

Barcelona snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat against Newcastle in Champions League R16 first match on Tuesday (Mar 10) at St James' Park but a Barca fan was left gutted. The Spanish fan, who had decided to travel from London to saw his team play, ended up 366 miles (590 km approx) away from the venue but still at St James Park. The stadium where he ended up going was Exeter City football club home ground - also called St James Park. The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad fan. How did Barcelona fan end up going 366 miles away from venue of Newcastle Champions League match? Adam Spencer, Exeter’s supporter experience officer, explained the situation as reported by the Guradian and said: "My guess is he’d put St James Park in his phone and then just followed the directions from there. He was pretty gutted and a bit embarrassed. So we sorted him out a ticket and he got to watch a game at the real St James Park. He’d be welcome back any time." Also Watch - Champions League | Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG “One of our volunteers came to the office to let us know that this guy had turned up expecting to see FC Barcelona. His English wasn’t great, but from what we could gather, he’d come from London," Spencer also informed. What happened in the match? Newcastle United were on the verge of a famous win against Barcelona but teenager Lamine Yamal had different plans. Yamal, the 18 and something superstar in making, came to the fore with a successful penalty kick of his own in the 96th minute to deny Newcastle a win. The Spanish player, aged only 18 years and 240 days, is now the youngest to play 30 UEFA Champions League matches and he celebrated it with a brilliant injury-time rescue act for his team.

&nbsp;The confusion arose from the same name of venues but as well as navigation skills of the fan. He, nonetheless, ended up watching a football match - Exeter vs Lincoln City - after the League One team's venue officials saw the confusion and tried to cheer up the sad Barcelona fan.

Champions League | A fan thought he was at St James' Park to watch Barcelona vs Newcastle. He was off 600 km

Chelsea suffered a humiliating 5-2 loss against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday (Mar 11) in Champions League Round of 16 first leg match at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris. The Chelsea players did not take the invitable loss very well in the dying moments of the match as Pedro Neto shoved a ball boy to get the ball. The behaviour sparked criticism and scolding from the PSG players on ground and later on, Pedro agreed to letting 'emotions' getting better of him. The loss has put Chelsea on brink of exit from the European supremacy tournament with little chance of overcoming the deficit in the second leg next week.<h2>Why Chelsea's Pedro shoved ball boy during Champions League R16 match?</h2>The ball went out of bounds in the last minutes of the game and Pedro tryied to get the ball in the quickly. In doing so, he overstepped his authority and shoved the ball boy to get the hold of the football. The ball boy was doing his job, picking up the ball and waiting for the player to come and collect, Pedro instead became physical to get it like a bullying kid playing on the street. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">O Pedro Neto empurrou o gandula pra pegar a bola 😳 <a href="https://t.co/FvJMRcMZ5S">pic.twitter.com/FvJMRcMZ5S</a>&mdash; DataFut (@DataFutebol) <a href="https://twitter.com/DataFutebol/status/2031865685425504648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-r16-real-madrid-trounce-man-city-psg-sink-chelsea-and-arsenal-draw-against-levekusen-1773278285948">Champions League R16 | Real Madrid trounce Man City, PSG sink Chelsea</a>The move triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.<h2>What did Pedro Neto say about shoving the ball boy?</h2>The Chelsea player, after the match, came to his senses and acknowledged his mistake. “I want to come out and apologize for what happened on the pitch,” Neto told TNT Sports after the game. “I’ve spoken with the ball boy. With the emotions of the game, we were losing, I wanted to pick up the ball. I gave him a little push. I saw that I hurt him and I am sorry, as I’m not like this."To make up for his mistake, the Chelsea player "gave him (ball boy) my shirt as well. He was happy that I gave him the shirt and said sorry like, 35 times."

Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoving the ball boy vs PSG in Champions League R16 match triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.

Chelsea suffered a humiliating 5-2 loss against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday (Mar 11) in Champions League Round of 16 first leg match at Parc des Princes stadium in Paris. The Chelsea players did not take the invitable loss very well in the dying moments of the match as Pedro Neto shoved a ball boy to get the ball. The behaviour sparked criticism and scolding from the PSG players on ground and later on, Pedro agreed to letting 'emotions' getting better of him. The loss has put Chelsea on brink of exit from the European supremacy tournament with little chance of overcoming the deficit in the second leg next week. Why Chelsea's Pedro shoved ball boy during Champions League R16 match? The ball went out of bounds in the last minutes of the game and Pedro tryied to get the ball in the quickly. In doing so, he overstepped his authority and shoved the ball boy to get the hold of the football. The ball boy was doing his job, picking up the ball and waiting for the player to come and collect, Pedro instead became physical to get it like a bullying kid playing on the street. Have a look at the video below:

Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoving the ball boy vs PSG in Champions League R16 match triggred a righfully angered reaction from the PSG players who scolded the visiting footballer for his actions which sent the ball boy tumbling down towards the advertising boards.

Champions League | WATCH - Chelsea's Pedro Neto shoves ball boy during humiliating loss vs PSG

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-will-replace-iran-at-fifa-world-cup-2026-after-sports-minister-cannot-participate-claim-iraq-uae-donald-trump-israel-us-war-west-asia-conflict-1773246224722">Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim?</a>"(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this."Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running.The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz.City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian."I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week."In football you never know. We will try."PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes.Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level.Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto.A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time."It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form."There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team."Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on."A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said."We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't."<h2>Arsenal leave it late</h2>Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week.Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen.Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany.But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals."I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz."We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week."Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition.Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time.Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Federico Valverde scored an unlikely hat-trick as Real Madrid trounced Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie Wednesday, while holders Paris Saint-Germain beat Chelsea 5-2. Premier League leaders Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control of the tie despite the absence of the injured Kylian Mbappe. Also Read - Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim? "(It was) incredible, you dream of nights like this," Valverde told Movistar. "It's been a long time since I enjoyed a game like this." Valverde ran onto a long kick from Thibaut Courtois and dribbled past Gianluigi Donnarumma to slot home and give Madrid the lead at the Santiago Bernabeu against City as the teams met in a knockout tie for the fifth season running. The Uruguayan midfielder arrowed a low drive into the far corner to double Madrid's advantage and then completed his hat-trick with a sublime touch and finish after linking up with Brahim Diaz. City could have suffered an ever heavier defeat but Donnarumma saved a second-half penalty from Vinicius Junior after the City goalkeeper brought down the Brazilian. "I had a feeling that we were better than the result said... but the result is here," City boss Pep Guardiola told TNT Sports, refusing to write off his team's chances next week. "In football you never know. We will try." PSG have one foot in the quarter-finals after two late goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at the Parc des Princes. Bradley Barcola fired PSG in front but Malo Gusto's scruffy effort skipped past Matfei Safonov to bring Chelsea level. Ousmane Dembele finished off a clinical counter to restore the lead for the hosts before half-time, only for Enzo Fernandez to reply once more for Chelsea after excellent work from Pedro Neto. A mistake from Filip Jorgensen saw Vitinha lob the Chelsea goalkeeper to put PSG on top for the third time, with Kvaratskhelia hammering in a superb fourth and then potentially applying the fatal blow for Luis Enrique's side in stoppage time. "It is a special moment because we are maybe not quite as precise as usual..." said Luis Enrique, whose team have struggled to consistently replicate last season's form. "There are all the comparisons with last year but it is impossible to be at that level... we are very resilient, I think that is a word which defines our team." Chelsea boss Liam Rosenior admitted his team paid the price for losing their composure late on. "A very disappointing result in an evening where for so much of the game I was really happy. The last 15-20 minutes were crazy," he said. "We need to be better with setbacks and we need to stay calm and we didn't." Arsenal leave it late Despite an unprecedented six English teams featuring in the last 16, not a single one won and only two avoided defeat in Europe this week. Arsenal needed an 89th-minute penalty from Kai Havertz against his former club to snatch a draw away to Bayer Leverkusen. Robert Andrich headed in a corner for Leverkusen moments into the second half to leave Arsenal, who won all eight of their league phase matches, staring at defeat in Germany. But Havertz came off the bench and converted from the spot after a foul on Noni Madueke to ensure Arsenal remain favourites to reach the quarter-finals. "I know how hard it is to come here... and we knew what to expect," said Havertz. "We didn't play our best today. But we're going home with a good result. We need to step on the gas next week." Bodo/Glimt enjoyed another remarkable Champions League night as they swept Portugal's Sporting aside 3-0 to register their fifth win in a row in the competition. Sondre Brunstad Fet put Bodo ahead from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark and Ole Didrik Blomberg made it two in first-half injury time. Kasper Hogh scored his fifth goal in as many European games with 19 minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations for the Norwegian underdogs.

Arsenal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bayer Leverkusen to preserve their unbeaten record in Europe this season, while Bodo/Glimt continued their fairytale run with a 3-0 win over Sporting. Alvaro Arbeloa's record 15-time European champions avenged their loss to City in the league phase as Valverde struck three times in the first half to hand Madrid full control.

Champions League R16 | Real Madrid trounce Man City, PSG sink Chelsea and Arsenal draw against Levekusen

Iran has opted to withdraw from the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 after the US killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali said. Speaking on the state television on Wednesday (Mar 11), Donyamali said, “Considering that this corrupt ⁠regime [the US] has ⁠assassinated our leader, under no circumstances ⁠can we ⁠participate in ⁠the World Cup.” The US will co-host the FIFA World Cup in June, alongside Mexico and Canada, but all of Iran’s group games are scheduled in US cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle.&nbsp;Although FIFA has yet to confirm Iran’s withdrawal from the competition, should it happen in the worst-case scenario, who will replace them?&nbsp; &nbsp;Iran is placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, and should they pull out of the tournament amid escalating tensions across West Asia, where they are involved in a war with America and Israel, a team from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will replace them, most likely either Iraq or the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp; &nbsp;As the highest-ranked Asian team yet to qualify, Iraq is the frontrunner to replace Iran, should they miss out via the inter-confederation play-offs. Currently, Iraq is set to face either Bolivia or Suriname in the play-off final on March 31. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the US and Israel have bombarded Tehran since February 28, killing over 1200 people and wounding over 12,000 in the past 12 days. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones at Israel and several military bases in the Gulf, where US forces operate and have their infrastructure built in the region.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist,” Donyamali said. “Given the malicious actions ⁠they have carried out against Iran, ⁠they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Therefore, we ⁠certainly cannot have such a presence.” &nbsp;On the other hand, Iran’s football body’s president, Mehdi Taj, also shared similar sentiments earlier.&nbsp; &nbsp;“After this attack [on Iran], we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope,” Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), said on March 1. “If the World Cup is like this, who in their right mind would send their national team to a place like this?” Taj asked on Iranian state television.&nbsp;<h3>'US will welcome Iran's participation'</h3>Earlier, after discussions with US President Donald Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-will-trump-allow-iran-to-come-to-us-fifa-chief-infantino-says-of-course-1773219383640">US will welcome Iran’s participation</a> in the 48-team tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;“During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” Infantino wrote on his Instagram post.&nbsp;

Who will replace Iran in Group G? Following Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali’s announcement that Iran will withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to regional conflict, FIFA must now find a replacement. Discover how Article 6.7 could open the door for Iraq or the UAE in this tournament.

Iran has opted to withdraw from the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 after the US killed its supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the country’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali said. Speaking on the state television on Wednesday (Mar 11), Donyamali said, “Considering that this corrupt ⁠regime [the US] has ⁠assassinated our leader, under no circumstances ⁠can we ⁠participate in ⁠the World Cup.” The US will co-host the FIFA World Cup in June, alongside Mexico and Canada, but all of Iran’s group games are scheduled in US cities, including Los Angeles and Seattle. Although FIFA has yet to confirm Iran’s withdrawal from the competition, should it happen in the worst-case scenario, who will replace them? Iran is placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, and should they pull out of the tournament amid escalating tensions across West Asia, where they are involved in a war with America and Israel, a team from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will replace them, most likely either Iraq or the United Arab Emirates (UAE). As the highest-ranked Asian team yet to qualify, Iraq is the frontrunner to replace Iran, should they miss out via the inter-confederation play-offs. Currently, Iraq is set to face either Bolivia or Suriname in the play-off final on March 31. Meanwhile, the US and Israel have bombarded Tehran since February 28, killing over 1200 people and wounding over 12,000 in the past 12 days. Iran responded by launching missiles and drones at Israel and several military bases in the Gulf, where US forces operate and have their infrastructure built in the region. “Our children are not safe and, fundamentally, such conditions for participation do not exist,” Donyamali said. “Given the malicious actions ⁠they have carried out against Iran, ⁠they have forced two wars on us over eight or nine months and have killed and martyred thousands of our people. Therefore, we ⁠certainly cannot have such a presence.” On the other hand, Iran’s football body’s president, Mehdi Taj, also shared similar sentiments earlier. “After this attack [on Iran], we cannot be expected to look forward to the World Cup with hope,” Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), said on March 1. “If the World Cup is like this, who in their right mind would send their national team to a place like this?” Taj asked on Iranian state television. 'US will welcome Iran's participation' Earlier, after discussions with US President Donald Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said that the US will welcome Iran’s participation in the 48-team tournament. “During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States,” Infantino wrote on his Instagram post.

Who will replace Iran in Group G? Following Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali’s announcement that Iran will withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to regional conflict, FIFA must now find a replacement. Discover how Article 6.7 could open the door for Iraq or the UAE in this tournament.

Who will replace Iran at FIFA World Cup after country’s sports minister’s ‘cannot participate’ claim?

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that US President Donald Trump has assured to 'allow Iran to participate' at the upcoming Football World Cup 2026. The event is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19, but Iran's participation is under doubt. Infantino's comments came amid the onoing US-Israel-Iran war which started on Feb 28 and saw Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie dying in strikes. Earlier, Trump had said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-israel-iran-war-trump-does-not-care-about-iran-s-participation-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-1772615400885">'he doesn't care' if Iran participated</a> in the World Cup or not. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-blames-us-for-coercing-women-footballers-for-australia-asylum-says-who-would-send-team-for-fifa-wc-1773207186035">Iran football federation chief Mehedi Taj also casted doubt</a> the team going to the US for the World Cup.<h2>Will USA President Donald Trump allow Iran to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran"."During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," Infantino said.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-fund-refunds-and-disciplinary-measures-what-happens-if-iran-pulls-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1773118066659">What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026</a>"We all need an event like the Fifa World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the president of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that football unites the world," he added.<h2>Where is Iran scheduled to play in US during FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington. &nbsp;

Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran".

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that US President Donald Trump has assured to 'allow Iran to participate' at the upcoming Football World Cup 2026. The event is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19, but Iran's participation is under doubt. Infantino's comments came amid the onoing US-Israel-Iran war which started on Feb 28 and saw Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie dying in strikes. Earlier, Trump had said that 'he doesn't care' if Iran participated in the World Cup or not. Iran football federation chief Mehedi Taj also casted doubt the team going to the US for the World Cup. Will USA President Donald Trump allow Iran to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026? Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran". "During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," Infantino said. Also Read - What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026 "We all need an event like the Fifa World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the president of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that football unites the world," he added. Where is Iran scheduled to play in US during FIFA World Cup 2026? Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington.

Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran".

FIFA World Cup 2026 | Will Trump allow Iran to come to US? FIFA chief Infantino says 'of course'

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