FIFA football world is a dream come true of all the players participating in it but the ultimate goal of winning the trophy and scoring goals remains reserve for a few chosen one. Only 62 players have been able to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final in the history with only 12 players being able to score multiple goals across the finals. In a single edition of the FIFA final, only 10 players have been able to score multiple goals and only two of them have scored hat-tricks. Scoring three goals in a single match by a player almost ensures victory for team but alas, that is not the case with Kylian Mbappe.<h2>Mbappe unluckiest player in FIFA World Cup?</h2>The 27-year-old French player has taken part in two FIFA World Cup finals - in 2018 and 2022 - scoring four goals combined, which are the highest in the tournament final history. Despite being the highest goal scorer of the FIFA World Cup final history - Mbappe remains the only player to score a hat-trick in the final and still end up on the losing side.Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fifa-2026-which-team-has-played-most-football-world-cup-penalty-shoot-outs-one-of-top-5-hasn-t-won-a-single-title-1781068342935">FIFA 2026 | Which team has played most football World Cup penalty shoot-outs? One of top 5 hasn't won a single title</a>In 2022 FIFA World Cup final, Mbappe did everything he could to take France at par against Argentina and pushed the game in the penalty shootout. Argentina and Messi, however, ensured no back-to-back titles for France. Mbappe had scored his goals in 80', 81' (penalty), and 118' (penalty) but all in vain.Apart from Mbappe, only once a player has player has scored a hat-trick in the FIFA World Cup final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 against West Germany. The goals ensured the title win for England, which remains their only one till date.<h2>Which players have scored multiple goals in single FIFA World Cup final?</h2>Only 10 players in 96-year history of the tournament have been able to score multiple goals in a FIFA World Cup final. Among those 10, only Hurst and Mbappe are with a hat-trick. Here's the list of all players with multiple goals in a single FIFA World Cup final<ul><li>Gino Colaussi (Italy) - 2 goals in 1938</li><li>Silvio Piola (Italy) - 2 goals in 1938</li><li>Helmut Rahn (West Germany) - 2 goals in 1954</li><li>Vava (Brazil) - 2 goals in 1958</li><li>Pele (Brazil) - 2 goals in 1958</li><li>Geoff Hurst (England) - 3 goals in 1966</li><li>Mario Kempes (Argentina) - 2 goals in 1978</li><li>Zinedine Zidane (France) - 2 goals in 1998</li><li>Ronaldo (Brazil) - 2 goals in 2002</li><li>Kylian Mbappe (France) - 3 goals in 2022</li></ul>

The 27-year-old French player holds the most goals in World Cup final history with four, including a hat-trick in 2022, yet remains the only player to score a final hat-trick and still lose, making him probably football's unluckiest record-holder.

FIFA football world is a dream come true of all the players participating in it but the ultimate goal of winning the trophy and scoring goals remains reserve for a few chosen one. Only 62 players have been able to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final in the history with only 12 players being able to score multiple goals across the finals. In a single edition of the FIFA final, only 10 players have been able to score multiple goals and only two of them have scored hat-tricks. Scoring three goals in a single match by a player almost ensures victory for team but alas, that is not the case with Kylian Mbappe. Mbappe unluckiest player in FIFA World Cup? The 27-year-old French player has taken part in two FIFA World Cup finals - in 2018 and 2022 - scoring four goals combined, which are the highest in the tournament final history. Despite being the highest goal scorer of the FIFA World Cup final history - Mbappe remains the only player to score a hat-trick in the final and still end up on the losing side. Also Check - FIFA 2026 | Which team has played most football World Cup penalty shoot-outs? One of top 5 hasn't won a single title In 2022 FIFA World Cup final, Mbappe did everything he could to take France at par against Argentina and pushed the game in the penalty shootout. Argentina and Messi, however, ensured no back-to-back titles for France. Mbappe had scored his goals in 80', 81' (penalty), and 118' (penalty) but all in vain. Apart from Mbappe, only once a player has player has scored a hat-trick in the FIFA World Cup final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 against West Germany. The goals ensured the title win for England, which remains their only one till date. Which players have scored multiple goals in single FIFA World Cup final? Only 10 players in 96-year history of the tournament have been able to score multiple goals in a FIFA World Cup final. Among those 10, only Hurst and Mbappe are with a hat-trick. Here's the list of all players with multiple goals in a single FIFA World Cup final Gino Colaussi (Italy) - 2 goals in 1938 Silvio Piola (Italy) - 2 goals in 1938 Helmut Rahn (West Germany) - 2 goals in 1954 Vava (Brazil) - 2 goals in 1958 Pele (Brazil) - 2 goals in 1958 Geoff Hurst (England) - 3 goals in 1966 Mario Kempes (Argentina) - 2 goals in 1978 Zinedine Zidane (France) - 2 goals in 1998 Ronaldo (Brazil) - 2 goals in 2002 Kylian Mbappe (France) - 3 goals in 2022

The 27-year-old French player holds the most goals in World Cup final history with four, including a hat-trick in 2022, yet remains the only player to score a final hat-trick and still lose, making him probably football's unluckiest record-holder.

FIFA World Cup's unluckiest player? This 27-year-old player has the most final goals, a hat-trick and still ended up on wrong side of history

There have been 35 penalty shootouts in the World Cup history so far with five of them coming in 2022 - most in a single edition - including the final won by Argentina against France.

There have been 35 penalty shootouts in the World Cup history so far with five of them coming in 2022 - most in a single edition - including the final won by Argentina against France.

FIFA 2026 | Which team has played most football World Cup penalty shoot-outs? One of top 5 hasn't won a single title

Craig Gordon was told he risked paralysis or death when he went in for a surgery. The 43-year-old Hearts and Scotland goalkeeper travelled to London in March to see spine specialist Usamah Jannoun, who laid out the dangers of the neck surgery he needed. Gordon went ahead with the procedure and is now in Charlotte, North Carolina, preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2026. He will be the oldest player at the 2026 tournament and stands on the verge of becoming the second-oldest player in World Cup history. It is the latest chapter in a career that has been defined, above all else, by defying the odds.<h2>Scotland's Gordon defies death risk to play at FIFA 2026</h2>According to a BBC Scotland documentary, Icons of Football, Gordon's career has been about comebacks. He made his Scotland debut over 22 years ago, before several members of the current squad were even born. Yet through ankle issues, broken arms, a broken leg, multiple knee surgeries, and neck and shoulder problems, he has missed an estimated 1,975 days of football or roughly 200 games.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-hospitality-workers-across-us-venues-threaten-strike-over-fair-conditions-and-ice-involvement-1781061440913">FIFA 2026 | Hospitality workers across US venues threaten strike over fair conditions and ICE involvement</a>The lowest point came in 2012, when patellar tendonitis kept him sidelined for two years. He sought help from experts across Europe, underwent three surgeries, and saw a psychologist after his then-club Sunderland questioned whether the pain was psychological. A surgeon then advised him to retire but the iron-willed goalkeeper refused."There are definitely times where I've cried because of injury," Gordon tells the BBC. "I just probably don't show it to everybody else." He adds that without the World Cup on the horizon, he would likely have walked away at the end of last season. The turning point came in November when a 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden sent Scotland to their first World Cup in 28 years. "One last effort. One last goal. And it's come off," he says.<h2>Scotland schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>Scotland are in Group C alongside five-time world champions Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, with their group fixtures split across two US host cities. They open against Haiti in Boston on 14 June, before facing Morocco in Boston again on 20 June, and rounding off the group stage against Brazil in Miami on 25 June. Gordon is in a goalkeeping battle with Angus Gunn for the starting jersey against Haiti. Scotland are back at the World Cup after a 28-year absence, with Steve Clarke's side attempting to reach the knockout stages for the first time in the country's history.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that will take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Craig Gordon, 43, overcame surgery risks including paralysis to become the oldest player at World Cup 2026, where Scotland face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in Group C — their first tournament in 28 years.

Craig Gordon was told he risked paralysis or death when he went in for a surgery. The 43-year-old Hearts and Scotland goalkeeper travelled to London in March to see spine specialist Usamah Jannoun, who laid out the dangers of the neck surgery he needed. Gordon went ahead with the procedure and is now in Charlotte, North Carolina, preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2026. He will be the oldest player at the 2026 tournament and stands on the verge of becoming the second-oldest player in World Cup history. It is the latest chapter in a career that has been defined, above all else, by defying the odds. Scotland's Gordon defies death risk to play at FIFA 2026 According to a BBC Scotland documentary, Icons of Football, Gordon's career has been about comebacks. He made his Scotland debut over 22 years ago, before several members of the current squad were even born. Yet through ankle issues, broken arms, a broken leg, multiple knee surgeries, and neck and shoulder problems, he has missed an estimated 1,975 days of football or roughly 200 games. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | Hospitality workers across US venues threaten strike over fair conditions and ICE involvement The lowest point came in 2012, when patellar tendonitis kept him sidelined for two years. He sought help from experts across Europe, underwent three surgeries, and saw a psychologist after his then-club Sunderland questioned whether the pain was psychological. A surgeon then advised him to retire but the iron-willed goalkeeper refused. "There are definitely times where I've cried because of injury," Gordon tells the BBC. "I just probably don't show it to everybody else." He adds that without the World Cup on the horizon, he would likely have walked away at the end of last season. The turning point came in November when a 4-2 victory over Denmark at Hampden sent Scotland to their first World Cup in 28 years. "One last effort. One last goal. And it's come off," he says. Scotland schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026 Scotland are in Group C alongside five-time world champions Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, with their group fixtures split across two US host cities. They open against Haiti in Boston on 14 June, before facing Morocco in Boston again on 20 June, and rounding off the group stage against Brazil in Miami on 25 June. Gordon is in a goalkeeping battle with Angus Gunn for the starting jersey against Haiti. Scotland are back at the World Cup after a 28-year absence, with Steve Clarke's side attempting to reach the knockout stages for the first time in the country's history. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that will take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Craig Gordon, 43, overcame surgery risks including paralysis to become the oldest player at World Cup 2026, where Scotland face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in Group C — their first tournament in 28 years.

FIFA 2026 | Meet Craig Gordon - 43-year-old Scotland goalie defies death and paralysis risk to become oldest player at World Cup

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across North America on Thursday (Jun 11), hospitality and food service workers in the US, which is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexicos, are demanding fair wages and protections from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) among other things. From Los Angeles to Seattle to Philadelphia, thousands of workers, many of them immigrants, are pushing for new union contracts that address wage increases, affordable healthcare, manageable workloads, and safeguards against federal immigration enforcement at their workplaces. The demands, led by Unite Here locals across cities, have put stadium and hotel operators on notice that labour unrest could disrupt the world's largest single-sport tournament. Workers argue the economic windfall the World Cup generates should extend to those who power it.<h2>World Cup stadium workers across US threaten strike 'to make event fair'</h2>At SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, roughly 2,000 workers represented by Unite Here Local 11 voted 96% in favour of a strike before reaching a tentative agreement on Tuesday (Jun 9). The union, however, retained its contractual right to walk off the job if federal immigration enforcement threatens worker safety.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-confirms-us-travel-plan-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-opener-amid-visa-dispute-1781026522584">Iran confirms US travel plan ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 opener amid visa row</a>"Without us, they don't have a stadium," said Eva Miles, a bartender at SoFi since 2021, who commutes two hours daily as reported by the Guardian. "Let's see them live on our wage, let's see them raise a family." Workers at the stadium are pushing for pay above $30 an hour.In Seattle, &nbsp;the host of six World Cup games, about 100 hotel workers at the Embassy Suites Hilton near Lumen Field voted 94% in favour of a strike, demanding pay increases, year-round health insurance, and ICE protections. "Everyone is very tired. We all deserve to work one job," said front desk employee Hayden Eyerly.In Philadelphia, workers at six hotels have set a strike deadline of 12 June. "The hotels have the money to give us what we deserve," said server Maciah Magloughlin, citing a projected $770 million economic impact from the World Cup in the Philadelphia area alone.<h2>US schedule of FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, spanning three co-host nations &nbsp;- the United States, Canada, and Mexico - across 16 cities, with a total of 104 matches. The United States alone will host 78 matches across 11 cities, with the final taking place at New York New Jersey Stadium. US host cities include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. The US opening match against Paraguay is scheduled for 12 June at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that will take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: https://www.zee5.com/

As FIFA World Cup 2026 gets ready for kicks off across the US, hospitality workers at host venues demand higher wages and ICE protections, with strike threats in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Philadelphia potentially disrupting the tournament.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across North America on Thursday (Jun 11), hospitality and food service workers in the US, which is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexicos, are demanding fair wages and protections from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) among other things. From Los Angeles to Seattle to Philadelphia, thousands of workers, many of them immigrants, are pushing for new union contracts that address wage increases, affordable healthcare, manageable workloads, and safeguards against federal immigration enforcement at their workplaces. The demands, led by Unite Here locals across cities, have put stadium and hotel operators on notice that labour unrest could disrupt the world's largest single-sport tournament. Workers argue the economic windfall the World Cup generates should extend to those who power it. World Cup stadium workers across US threaten strike 'to make event fair' At SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, roughly 2,000 workers represented by Unite Here Local 11 voted 96% in favour of a strike before reaching a tentative agreement on Tuesday (Jun 9). The union, however, retained its contractual right to walk off the job if federal immigration enforcement threatens worker safety. Also Read - Iran confirms US travel plan ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 opener amid visa row "Without us, they don't have a stadium," said Eva Miles, a bartender at SoFi since 2021, who commutes two hours daily as reported by the Guardian. "Let's see them live on our wage, let's see them raise a family." Workers at the stadium are pushing for pay above $30 an hour. In Seattle, the host of six World Cup games, about 100 hotel workers at the Embassy Suites Hilton near Lumen Field voted 94% in favour of a strike, demanding pay increases, year-round health insurance, and ICE protections. "Everyone is very tired. We all deserve to work one job," said front desk employee Hayden Eyerly. In Philadelphia, workers at six hotels have set a strike deadline of 12 June. "The hotels have the money to give us what we deserve," said server Maciah Magloughlin, citing a projected $770 million economic impact from the World Cup in the Philadelphia area alone. US schedule of FIFA World Cup 2026 The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, spanning three co-host nations - the United States, Canada, and Mexico - across 16 cities, with a total of 104 matches. The United States alone will host 78 matches across 11 cities, with the final taking place at New York New Jersey Stadium. US host cities include Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. The US opening match against Paraguay is scheduled for 12 June at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that will take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

As FIFA World Cup 2026 gets ready for kicks off across the US, hospitality workers at host venues demand higher wages and ICE protections, with strike threats in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Philadelphia potentially disrupting the tournament.

FIFA 2026 | Hospitality workers across US venues threaten strike over fair conditions and ICE involvement

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has vowed to do ‘all he could’ to help Scottish football fans who were reportedly denied entry into the US for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Less than a week before their opener against Haiti in Boston, several Scottish supporters had their Electronic System of Travel Authorisation (ESTA) permit revoked. Swinney said he is in constant touch with US officials, trying to help the fans get clearance.&nbsp;An ESTA is usually required for British citizens (without a visa) travelling to the US for up to 90 days. &nbsp;Meanwhile, a few members of the Tartan Army, the name given to Scotland supporters, reported having their ESTAs revoked at the last minute. It led to them seeking emergency appointments with the US Embassy in London.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-confirms-us-travel-plan-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-opener-amid-visa-dispute-1781026522584">Iran confirms US travel plan ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 opener amid visa dispute</a> &nbsp;"I am aware that the United States Embassy has issued advice to individuals affected by ESTA refusals, indicating that they may apply for a visa through the FIFA (football global governing body) pass system and I have asked officials to convey our hope that they can resolve this so that Scotland's fans do not miss out," Swinney told the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday (Jun 9). &nbsp;"I have asked for specific representations and engagement to be taken forward with the Consul General of the United States in Scotland- that has been undertaken and we will do all that we can to help out to resolve these issues." &nbsp;Last week, the UK media reported acting assistant secretary of Homeland Security, Lauren Bis, as saying that the US government has tightened ESTAs because ‘the Trump administration is enforcing immigration laws.’ &nbsp;"Under the Visa Waiver Program, all ESTA applications are continuously vetted against law enforcement and security databases," she said. "Travellers must provide complete and truthful information, including all criminal history." &nbsp;Bis said the "failure to disclose arrests or convictions constitutes misrepresentation” and could lead to "ESTA denial, revocation, or a permanent bar from entering the United States”. &nbsp;FIFA announced on Monday (Jun 8) that award-winning Somali referee Omar Artan has been dropped from officiating at the World Cup after being barred from entering the United States.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Scotland First Minister John Swinney intervenes after Tartan Army World Cup fans face sudden US entry bans and revoked ESTAs ahead of the Haiti match.

Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney has vowed to do ‘all he could’ to help Scottish football fans who were reportedly denied entry into the US for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Less than a week before their opener against Haiti in Boston, several Scottish supporters had their Electronic System of Travel Authorisation (ESTA) permit revoked. Swinney said he is in constant touch with US officials, trying to help the fans get clearance. An ESTA is usually required for British citizens (without a visa) travelling to the US for up to 90 days. Meanwhile, a few members of the Tartan Army, the name given to Scotland supporters, reported having their ESTAs revoked at the last minute. It led to them seeking emergency appointments with the US Embassy in London. Also read | Iran confirms US travel plan ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 opener amid visa dispute "I am aware that the United States Embassy has issued advice to individuals affected by ESTA refusals, indicating that they may apply for a visa through the FIFA (football global governing body) pass system and I have asked officials to convey our hope that they can resolve this so that Scotland's fans do not miss out," Swinney told the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday (Jun 9). "I have asked for specific representations and engagement to be taken forward with the Consul General of the United States in Scotland- that has been undertaken and we will do all that we can to help out to resolve these issues." Last week, the UK media reported acting assistant secretary of Homeland Security, Lauren Bis, as saying that the US government has tightened ESTAs because ‘the Trump administration is enforcing immigration laws.’ "Under the Visa Waiver Program, all ESTA applications are continuously vetted against law enforcement and security databases," she said. "Travellers must provide complete and truthful information, including all criminal history." Bis said the "failure to disclose arrests or convictions constitutes misrepresentation” and could lead to "ESTA denial, revocation, or a permanent bar from entering the United States”. FIFA announced on Monday (Jun 8) that award-winning Somali referee Omar Artan has been dropped from officiating at the World Cup after being barred from entering the United States. (With inputs from AFP)

Scotland First Minister John Swinney intervenes after Tartan Army World Cup fans face sudden US entry bans and revoked ESTAs ahead of the Haiti match.

FIFA World Cup: Scotland First Minister Swinney steps in after fans blocked from entering US

Iran's Football Federation on Tuesday announced the national team's group-stage schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins under challenging circumstances for the Islamic Republic. Although Iranian players secured visas required to enter the United States and compete in group-stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, several members of the team's delegation were reportedly denied entry permits.&nbsp;The visa controversy surfaced just days before the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday and is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Despite all three group-stage matches taking place in the United States, Iran will base its squad in Tijuana, Mexico, throughout the tournament. "In accordance with FIFA's programme, the team delegation will travel to the United States on a charter flight," the Iranian federation's spokesperson Amir Mehdi Alavi said in a statement carried by Iran's ISNA news agency.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mexican-president-claudia-sheinbaum-announces-remote-work-and-school-closures-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-opener-1781017468829">Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announces remote work and school closures for FIFA World Cup 2026 opener</a>&nbsp;"The team will travel to the host city one day before the match against New Zealand, and for the following two matches, we will be at the host venue two days before the game," he added. Meanwhile, Iran's Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali warned against the display of unauthorized symbols or slogans during matches.&nbsp;"If, in the stadiums where we play, we see any flag or symbol other than that of the Islamic Republic of Iran, or if norm-breaking slogans are chanted, the team official will certainly have a duty to stop the match," he was quoted by Iran's official IRNA news agency as saying. "It is the responsibility of the organisers to rectify the situation," he added.&nbsp;Iran's World Cup preparations have been overshadowed by visa-related difficulties, with Tehran claiming that around 15 administrative and management personnel from its delegation have been unable to obtain entry into the United States. Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The team will then face Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

Iran announces its 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage schedule amid visa disputes with the United States. The team faces New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt while based in Tijuana, Mexico

Iran's Football Federation on Tuesday announced the national team's group-stage schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins under challenging circumstances for the Islamic Republic. Although Iranian players secured visas required to enter the United States and compete in group-stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, several members of the team's delegation were reportedly denied entry permits. The visa controversy surfaced just days before the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday and is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Despite all three group-stage matches taking place in the United States, Iran will base its squad in Tijuana, Mexico, throughout the tournament. "In accordance with FIFA's programme, the team delegation will travel to the United States on a charter flight," the Iranian federation's spokesperson Amir Mehdi Alavi said in a statement carried by Iran's ISNA news agency. Also Read: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announces remote work and school closures for FIFA World Cup 2026 opener "The team will travel to the host city one day before the match against New Zealand, and for the following two matches, we will be at the host venue two days before the game," he added. Meanwhile, Iran's Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali warned against the display of unauthorized symbols or slogans during matches. "If, in the stadiums where we play, we see any flag or symbol other than that of the Islamic Republic of Iran, or if norm-breaking slogans are chanted, the team official will certainly have a duty to stop the match," he was quoted by Iran's official IRNA news agency as saying. "It is the responsibility of the organisers to rectify the situation," he added. Iran's World Cup preparations have been overshadowed by visa-related difficulties, with Tehran claiming that around 15 administrative and management personnel from its delegation have been unable to obtain entry into the United States. Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The team will then face Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Iran confirms its 2026 World Cup schedule amid visa disputes, with delegation issues overshadowing matches in Los Angeles and Seattle

Iran confirms US travel plan ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 opener amid visa dispute

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has issued a decree directing federal employees in Mexico City to work remotely and ordering the suspension of classes across educational institutions on June 11 to ease traffic congestion during the opening events of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The measure aims to improve mobility and road safety as Mexico City prepares to host the tournament's opening match, with a significant influx of visitors expected in the capital.&nbsp;The first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will see Mexico take on South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11. Mexico is co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. According to the decree issued by President Sheinbaum, federal agencies must implement remote work arrangements for employees based in Mexico City. The directive excludes personnel involved in essential services, including healthcare, public security, critical infrastructure, and FIFA World Cup operations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-world-cup-referees-salary-revealed-here-s-how-much-they-are-going-to-be-paid-1781019584137">2026 World Cup referees salary revealed! Here's how much they are going to be paid</a>&nbsp;The decree also mandates the suspension of classes at all educational institutions, ranging from preschool to university level, covering both public and private establishments. Additionally, the government has encouraged private-sector companies to adopt similar remote work policies for their employees. FIFA has confirmed record participation for the 2026 World Cup, with final squad lists featuring 1,248 players representing 48 nations in the expanded tournament.&nbsp;The upcoming edition will include more teams, players, and matches than any previous FIFA World Cup. Defending champions Argentina national football team enter the tournament after lifting the 2022 World Cup trophy in Qatar. Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina defeated France in a dramatic final that ended 3-3 after extra time before securing victory 4-2 in the penalty shootout.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum orders remote work and school closures in Mexico City for the FIFA World Cup 2026 opener as fans arrive for Mexico vs South Africa

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has issued a decree directing federal employees in Mexico City to work remotely and ordering the suspension of classes across educational institutions on June 11 to ease traffic congestion during the opening events of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The measure aims to improve mobility and road safety as Mexico City prepares to host the tournament's opening match, with a significant influx of visitors expected in the capital. The first match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will see Mexico take on South Africa at the Mexico City Stadium on June 11. Mexico is co-hosting the tournament alongside the United States and Canada. According to the decree issued by President Sheinbaum, federal agencies must implement remote work arrangements for employees based in Mexico City. The directive excludes personnel involved in essential services, including healthcare, public security, critical infrastructure, and FIFA World Cup operations. Also Read: 2026 World Cup referees salary revealed! Here's how much they are going to be paid The decree also mandates the suspension of classes at all educational institutions, ranging from preschool to university level, covering both public and private establishments. Additionally, the government has encouraged private-sector companies to adopt similar remote work policies for their employees. FIFA has confirmed record participation for the 2026 World Cup, with final squad lists featuring 1,248 players representing 48 nations in the expanded tournament. The upcoming edition will include more teams, players, and matches than any previous FIFA World Cup. Defending champions Argentina national football team enter the tournament after lifting the 2022 World Cup trophy in Qatar. Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina defeated France in a dramatic final that ended 3-3 after extra time before securing victory 4-2 in the penalty shootout. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Mexico orders remote work and suspends classes in Mexico City on June 11 to ease traffic and boost safety for FIFA World Cup 2026 events

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announces remote work and school closures for FIFA World Cup 2026 opener

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here’s a look at the WC stats of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of the tournament.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here’s a look at the WC stats of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of the tournament.

Messi vs Ronaldo in FIFA World Cup: Who has performed better?

Players aren't the only ones with a financial stake in the 2026 World Cup this summer. The officials tasked with overseeing football's biggest tournament are also set for a substantial payday, with some referees expected to earn more in five weeks than they do during an entire domestic season. Premier League referees typically earn between £170,000 and £180,000 per year once match fees and performance-related bonuses are included. However, the World Cup offers a lucrative opportunity for those selected to officiate on football's grandest stage.&nbsp;According to The Times, World Cup referees will each receive a record-breaking $100,000 (approximately £75,000) simply for participating in the tournament. The figure is believed to be nearly double the amount paid to officials during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The increase reflects FIFA's commitment to attracting elite officials, as well as the demands of the expanded 48-team tournament and the heightened scrutiny that accompanies it.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-s-greatest-rival-isn-t-lionel-messi-it-s-the-fifa-world-cup-1781015546799">Cristiano Ronaldo's greatest rival isn't Lionel Messi. It's the FIFA World Cup</a>&nbsp;The guaranteed payment is only the beginning. Referees who progress into the knockout stages will receive additional bonuses at every round, with the officials selected for the final on July 19 expected to receive the largest rewards of all. Among the Premier League officials chosen for the tournament are Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor, widely regarded as two of England's leading referees. Between Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League assignments this season, both are understood to have earned around £250,000 already, making the World Cup a highly profitable addition to their annual income.&nbsp;Australian referee Jarred Gillett, who also officiates in the Premier League, has been selected in a specialist VAR role. The tournament will also introduce several significant rule changes designed to improve the flow of matches and reduce time-wasting. Time-wasting is being targeted more aggressively than ever. Substitutes will be required to leave the pitch within ten seconds, and any player who goes off for treatment will have to remain off the pitch for a full minute before returning. There’s also a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks, and players who cover their mouths during confrontations with officials risk immediate dismissal.&nbsp;VAR's powers have been expanded, too. For the first time, the system will be able to overturn a corner if it was incorrectly awarded, and review red cards issued for a second yellow. Two things fans have been crying out for. VAR will also have the power to intervene and disallow goals for a foul by an attacking player even before the ball has crossed the line. With 52 referees, 88 assistant referees, and 30 VAR officials overseeing 104 matches, the officiating operation assembled for the 2026 World Cup is the largest in the tournament's history.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

World Cup referees are set for record-breaking earnings at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with officials earning up to £75,000 plus bonuses. Discover the huge referee payouts, FIFA's new VAR powers, anti-time-wasting rules, and what it means for football's biggest tournament

Players aren't the only ones with a financial stake in the 2026 World Cup this summer. The officials tasked with overseeing football's biggest tournament are also set for a substantial payday, with some referees expected to earn more in five weeks than they do during an entire domestic season. Premier League referees typically earn between £170,000 and £180,000 per year once match fees and performance-related bonuses are included. However, the World Cup offers a lucrative opportunity for those selected to officiate on football's grandest stage. According to The Times, World Cup referees will each receive a record-breaking $100,000 (approximately £75,000) simply for participating in the tournament. The figure is believed to be nearly double the amount paid to officials during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. The increase reflects FIFA's commitment to attracting elite officials, as well as the demands of the expanded 48-team tournament and the heightened scrutiny that accompanies it. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo's greatest rival isn't Lionel Messi. It's the FIFA World Cup The guaranteed payment is only the beginning. Referees who progress into the knockout stages will receive additional bonuses at every round, with the officials selected for the final on July 19 expected to receive the largest rewards of all. Among the Premier League officials chosen for the tournament are Michael Oliver and Anthony Taylor, widely regarded as two of England's leading referees. Between Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League assignments this season, both are understood to have earned around £250,000 already, making the World Cup a highly profitable addition to their annual income. Australian referee Jarred Gillett, who also officiates in the Premier League, has been selected in a specialist VAR role. The tournament will also introduce several significant rule changes designed to improve the flow of matches and reduce time-wasting. Time-wasting is being targeted more aggressively than ever. Substitutes will be required to leave the pitch within ten seconds, and any player who goes off for treatment will have to remain off the pitch for a full minute before returning. There’s also a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks, and players who cover their mouths during confrontations with officials risk immediate dismissal. VAR's powers have been expanded, too. For the first time, the system will be able to overturn a corner if it was incorrectly awarded, and review red cards issued for a second yellow. Two things fans have been crying out for. VAR will also have the power to intervene and disallow goals for a foul by an attacking player even before the ball has crossed the line. With 52 referees, 88 assistant referees, and 30 VAR officials overseeing 104 matches, the officiating operation assembled for the 2026 World Cup is the largest in the tournament's history. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

World Cup referees could earn £75,000 plus bonuses in the FIFA World Cup 2026, as FIFA introduces major VAR changes and stricter anti-time-wasting rules

2026 World Cup referees salary revealed! Here's how much they are going to be paid

Some images celebrate greatness. Some photographs capture winning moments. And then some photographs break your heart. For Cristiano Ronaldo, it was neither a trophy lift nor a record-breaking goal that produced perhaps the most powerful image of his career. It was a walk. A lonely, painful walk. On December 10, 2022, Portugal's FIFA World Cup dream came crashing down at the hands of Morocco. The African side had just scripted one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, defeating Portugal 1-0 and becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final.&nbsp;As Moroccan players celebrated and Portuguese players stood frozen in disbelief, cameras followed one man. Cristiano Ronaldo. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner walked toward the tunnel with tears streaming down his face. No words. No gestures. No dramatic scenes. Just a man consumed by heartbreak. For millions watching around the world, it felt like the end. Not just the end of Portugal's campaign. The end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup dream.&nbsp;The picture circulated across social media within seconds. Newspapers across continents splashed it across their front pages. Television channels replayed it repeatedly. Because everyone understood what those tears meant. Cristiano Ronaldo was not crying because Portugal had lost a football match. He was crying because a dream that had consumed him for nearly two decades appeared to be over forever.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/like-criminals-fifa-us-face-backlash-after-senegal-and-uzbekistan-players-undergo-intense-security-checks-1781009363125">‘Like criminals’: FIFA, US face backlash after Senegal and Uzbekistan players undergo intense security checks</a><h2>The one trophy missing from football's most decorated career</h2>Cristiano Ronaldo has spent more than twenty years turning the impossible into reality. He left Madeira as a teenager and conquered England. He arrived in Spain and became the face of one of football's greatest rivalries. He won league titles in three major European countries. He lifted five UEFA Champions League trophies and became Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer.He became international football's highest goalscorer and broke records that many believed would stand forever. He won the UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League. He became one of the most recognisable athletes in human history. Yet despite all those achievements, one trophy continues to sit beyond his reach. The FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;It is football's greatest prize. The trophy that transforms legends into immortals. The trophy that has defined the legacies of players like Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi. For Ronaldo, it has always been the dream that remained unfinished.<h2>Five World Cups. Five different stories</h2>Ronaldo's World Cup journey started in 2006. He was young, fearless, and bursting with potential. Portugal reached the semi-finals, their best finish in decades. Many assumed he would have several more opportunities to lift the trophy. Football, however, had different plans. South Africa 2010 ended in disappointment. Brazil 2014 became one of Portugal's most frustrating campaigns. Russia 2018 offered moments of brilliance, including his unforgettable hat-trick against Spain, but ended in the Round of 16. Qatar 2022 was supposed to be different. Perhaps not because Portugal were the favourites. But because this felt like the last realistic opportunity for one of football's greatest players. Instead, it ended with that image. Those tears. That tunnel.<h2>Why did those tears resonate around the world?</h2>Football fans have seen Cristiano Ronaldo celebrate hundreds of goals. They have seen his confidence and swagger. His unmatched self-belief. For two decades, Ronaldo has appeared almost superhuman. The tears in Qatar reminded everyone that beneath the records and trophies was a man. A man confronting something he had spent his entire life avoiding. Time. For the first time, Ronaldo looked vulnerable. Not because he had failed. But because football was beginning to move on.&nbsp;The World Cup is cruel in that way. It comes only once every four years. Miss one opportunity and another generation arrives. Lose one tournament and an entire chapter of your career disappears forever. Ronaldo understood that better than anyone.Every tear seemed to carry the weight of five World Cups. Five campaigns. Five dreams. Five attempts to capture football's holy grail.<h2>Football's greatest unfinished story</h2>The irony is that Ronaldo never needed a World Cup to become great. His legacy was already secure. Even his harshest critics could not deny his place among football's immortals. Yet greatness often creates its own burden. The higher a player climbs, the more attention shifts to what remains unachieved. For Ronaldo, the World Cup became less about winning a trophy and more about completing a story. Every goal. Every appearance. Every tournament. Everything seemed to point toward one final destination. The FIFA World Cup trophy. And somehow, it always slipped away.<h2>One last chance at destiny?</h2>Four years after Qatar, football finds itself asking a question few imagined would still exist. Could Cristiano Ronaldo have one last shot? The prospect feels almost cinematic. A player who has spent his entire career defying expectations, arriving at one final World Cup. One final tournament. One final pursuit of the trophy that has haunted his career. Portugal will likely arrive in 2026 with one of the strongest squads in international football. A new generation of talent has emerged around Ronaldo. Players who grew up idolising him now share the dressing room with him. For years, Ronaldo carried Portugal. Now, Portugal may carry Ronaldo's final dream. And perhaps there is something poetic about that.<h2>The ending football can't stop imagining</h2>Every great sporting story needs an ending. Some end in triumph. Others end in heartbreak. The image of Ronaldo walking into the tunnel in tears felt like the final scene of a legendary career. The closing credits. The moment the curtain fell. But football has always had a weakness for redemption stories. It loves giving legends one final opportunity. One final act. One final chance to achieve the impossible.&nbsp;Maybe Portugal will win the World Cup. Maybe they don't. Maybe Ronaldo lifts the trophy. Maybe he never does. But that is almost secondary now. Because the story is bigger than the result. It is about obsession. It is about a man who conquered nearly everything football placed in front of him and refused to stop chasing the one thing he could not catch.&nbsp;For more than twenty years, Cristiano Ronaldo has chased the FIFA World Cup. The trophy remains just out of reach. The trophy remains unconquered. The trophy remains elusive. And that is precisely why the world will be watching. Because somewhere between those tears in Qatar and the promise of one final World Cup lies football's greatest unfinished story. A story that still has one chapter left to write.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

Cristiano Ronaldo has won it all except the FIFA World Cup. As Portugal eyes 2026 glory, can football's greatest unfinished story finally get its fairytale ending?

Some images celebrate greatness. Some photographs capture winning moments. And then some photographs break your heart. For Cristiano Ronaldo, it was neither a trophy lift nor a record-breaking goal that produced perhaps the most powerful image of his career. It was a walk. A lonely, painful walk. On December 10, 2022, Portugal's FIFA World Cup dream came crashing down at the hands of Morocco. The African side had just scripted one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, defeating Portugal 1-0 and becoming the first African nation to reach a World Cup semi-final. As Moroccan players celebrated and Portuguese players stood frozen in disbelief, cameras followed one man. Cristiano Ronaldo. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner walked toward the tunnel with tears streaming down his face. No words. No gestures. No dramatic scenes. Just a man consumed by heartbreak. For millions watching around the world, it felt like the end. Not just the end of Portugal's campaign. The end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup dream. The picture circulated across social media within seconds. Newspapers across continents splashed it across their front pages. Television channels replayed it repeatedly. Because everyone understood what those tears meant. Cristiano Ronaldo was not crying because Portugal had lost a football match. He was crying because a dream that had consumed him for nearly two decades appeared to be over forever. Also Read: ‘Like criminals’: FIFA, US face backlash after Senegal and Uzbekistan players undergo intense security checks The one trophy missing from football's most decorated career Cristiano Ronaldo has spent more than twenty years turning the impossible into reality. He left Madeira as a teenager and conquered England. He arrived in Spain and became the face of one of football's greatest rivalries. He won league titles in three major European countries. He lifted five UEFA Champions League trophies and became Portugal's all-time leading goalscorer. He became international football's highest goalscorer and broke records that many believed would stand forever. He won the UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League. He became one of the most recognisable athletes in human history. Yet despite all those achievements, one trophy continues to sit beyond his reach. The FIFA World Cup. It is football's greatest prize. The trophy that transforms legends into immortals. The trophy that has defined the legacies of players like Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi. For Ronaldo, it has always been the dream that remained unfinished. Five World Cups. Five different stories Ronaldo's World Cup journey started in 2006. He was young, fearless, and bursting with potential. Portugal reached the semi-finals, their best finish in decades. Many assumed he would have several more opportunities to lift the trophy. Football, however, had different plans. South Africa 2010 ended in disappointment. Brazil 2014 became one of Portugal's most frustrating campaigns. Russia 2018 offered moments of brilliance, including his unforgettable hat-trick against Spain, but ended in the Round of 16. Qatar 2022 was supposed to be different. Perhaps not because Portugal were the favourites. But because this felt like the last realistic opportunity for one of football's greatest players. Instead, it ended with that image. Those tears. That tunnel. Why did those tears resonate around the world? Football fans have seen Cristiano Ronaldo celebrate hundreds of goals. They have seen his confidence and swagger. His unmatched self-belief. For two decades, Ronaldo has appeared almost superhuman. The tears in Qatar reminded everyone that beneath the records and trophies was a man. A man confronting something he had spent his entire life avoiding. Time. For the first time, Ronaldo looked vulnerable. Not because he had failed. But because football was beginning to move on. The World Cup is cruel in that way. It comes only once every four years. Miss one opportunity and another generation arrives. Lose one tournament and an entire chapter of your career disappears forever. Ronaldo understood that better than anyone. Every tear seemed to carry the weight of five World Cups. Five campaigns. Five dreams. Five attempts to capture football's holy grail. Football's greatest unfinished story The irony is that Ronaldo never needed a World Cup to become great. His legacy was already secure. Even his harshest critics could not deny his place among football's immortals. Yet greatness often creates its own burden. The higher a player climbs, the more attention shifts to what remains unachieved. For Ronaldo, the World Cup became less about winning a trophy and more about completing a story. Every goal. Every appearance. Every tournament. Everything seemed to point toward one final destination. The FIFA World Cup trophy. And somehow, it always slipped away. One last chance at destiny? Four years after Qatar, football finds itself asking a question few imagined would still exist. Could Cristiano Ronaldo have one last shot? The prospect feels almost cinematic. A player who has spent his entire career defying expectations, arriving at one final World Cup. One final tournament. One final pursuit of the trophy that has haunted his career. Portugal will likely arrive in 2026 with one of the strongest squads in international football. A new generation of talent has emerged around Ronaldo. Players who grew up idolising him now share the dressing room with him. For years, Ronaldo carried Portugal. Now, Portugal may carry Ronaldo's final dream. And perhaps there is something poetic about that. The ending football can't stop imagining Every great sporting story needs an ending. Some end in triumph. Others end in heartbreak. The image of Ronaldo walking into the tunnel in tears felt like the final scene of a legendary career. The closing credits. The moment the curtain fell. But football has always had a weakness for redemption stories. It loves giving legends one final opportunity. One final act. One final chance to achieve the impossible. Maybe Portugal will win the World Cup. Maybe they don't. Maybe Ronaldo lifts the trophy. Maybe he never does. But that is almost secondary now. Because the story is bigger than the result. It is about obsession. It is about a man who conquered nearly everything football placed in front of him and refused to stop chasing the one thing he could not catch. For more than twenty years, Cristiano Ronaldo has chased the FIFA World Cup. The trophy remains just out of reach. The trophy remains unconquered. The trophy remains elusive. And that is precisely why the world will be watching. Because somewhere between those tears in Qatar and the promise of one final World Cup lies football's greatest unfinished story. A story that still has one chapter left to write. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Cristiano Ronaldo has conquered Europe, broken records, and inspired generations. Yet one trophy continues to escape him, the FIFA World Cup. Can 2026 finally change the story?

Cristiano Ronaldo's greatest rival isn't Lionel Messi. It's the FIFA World Cup

A historic sixth FIFA World Cup appearance for both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could set the stage for a long-awaited international showdown between two of football’s most iconic rivals. Given their ages and current club commitments with Inter Miami and Al Nassr, the 2026 tournament may represent the final opportunity for the pair to meet on football’s biggest stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;While Messi and Ronaldo have faced each other numerous times at club level, they have never met in a competitive World Cup match for their national teams. The expanded 2026 tournament could finally change that.<h3>Group Stage fixtures</h3>Argentina, led by Messi, have been drawn into Group J alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan. Their group-stage fixtures are scheduled for Jun 16, Jun 22 and Jun 27 respectively.&nbsp;If Argentina finish top of the group, as many expect, they would face the runner-up from Group H, which includes Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia, in the Round of 32 on Jul 4.&nbsp;Portugal, captained by Ronaldo, begin their campaign in Group K against DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia on Jun 17, Jun 23 and Jun 27.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/beat-the-heat-why-fifa-is-introducing-mandatory-hydration-breaks-for-world-cup-2026-north-america-canada-mexico-heat-soaring-temperatures-1781003287452">‘Beat the Heat’ — Why FIFA is introducing mandatory drink breaks for World Cup</a>&nbsp;If Portugal also secure first place in their group, they would advance to a Round of 32 encounter against teams from Groups D, E, I, J or L.&nbsp;<h3>How can Messi and Ronaldo meet in knockouts?</h3>The most straightforward route to a meeting between Argentina and Portugal would see both nations win their groups and then progress through the Round of 32 and Round of 16. In that scenario, they would meet in a quarterfinal.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-iran-alleges-ticket-allocation-withdrawn-days-before-tournament-leaving-fans-in-limbo-1781001565064">FIFA WC 2026: Iran alleges ticket allocation withdrawn days before tournament</a><h3>Which records could they break in FIFA World Cup 2026?</h3>Messi enters the tournament already holding several World Cup records. He owns the records for most World Cup appearances (26 matches) and most minutes played (2,314), surpassing Paolo Maldini during the 2022 tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is also Argentina’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 13 goals and sits just three behind Miroslav Klose’s all-time record of 16. That is one record Messi has a good chance of breaking as he looks to add to his achievements.&nbsp;Ronaldo does not hold many World Cup records, but he could still break some in 2026. If Argentina gets eliminated early while Portugal go deep into the tournament, Ronaldo could set new records for most World Cup matches and minutes played.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, with eight World Cup goals to his name, he would need an exceptional tournament to surpass Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.&nbsp;All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).

The FIFA World Cup 2026 could finally see Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face each other in a competitive international match for their countries. Here’s a look at the possible scenarios in which the two football icons could meet on the biggest stage.

A historic sixth FIFA World Cup appearance for both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo could set the stage for a long-awaited international showdown between two of football’s most iconic rivals. Given their ages and current club commitments with Inter Miami and Al Nassr, the 2026 tournament may represent the final opportunity for the pair to meet on football’s biggest stage. While Messi and Ronaldo have faced each other numerous times at club level, they have never met in a competitive World Cup match for their national teams. The expanded 2026 tournament could finally change that. Group Stage fixtures Argentina, led by Messi, have been drawn into Group J alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan. Their group-stage fixtures are scheduled for Jun 16, Jun 22 and Jun 27 respectively. If Argentina finish top of the group, as many expect, they would face the runner-up from Group H, which includes Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia, in the Round of 32 on Jul 4. Portugal, captained by Ronaldo, begin their campaign in Group K against DR Congo, Uzbekistan and Colombia on Jun 17, Jun 23 and Jun 27. Also Read - ‘Beat the Heat’ — Why FIFA is introducing mandatory drink breaks for World Cup If Portugal also secure first place in their group, they would advance to a Round of 32 encounter against teams from Groups D, E, I, J or L. How can Messi and Ronaldo meet in knockouts? The most straightforward route to a meeting between Argentina and Portugal would see both nations win their groups and then progress through the Round of 32 and Round of 16. In that scenario, they would meet in a quarterfinal. Also Read - FIFA WC 2026: Iran alleges ticket allocation withdrawn days before tournament Which records could they break in FIFA World Cup 2026? Messi enters the tournament already holding several World Cup records. He owns the records for most World Cup appearances (26 matches) and most minutes played (2,314), surpassing Paolo Maldini during the 2022 tournament. He is also Argentina’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with 13 goals and sits just three behind Miroslav Klose’s all-time record of 16. That is one record Messi has a good chance of breaking as he looks to add to his achievements. Ronaldo does not hold many World Cup records, but he could still break some in 2026. If Argentina gets eliminated early while Portugal go deep into the tournament, Ronaldo could set new records for most World Cup matches and minutes played. However, with eight World Cup goals to his name, he would need an exceptional tournament to surpass Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (https://www.zee5.com/).

The FIFA World Cup 2026 could finally see Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face each other in a competitive international match for their countries. Here’s a look at the possible scenarios in which the two football icons could meet on the biggest stage.

FIFA World Cup 2026: When will Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face off?

Discover the top five European clubs with the most representation at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America. While the heavyweights, including FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich, are there, an English club leads the chart.

Discover the top five European clubs with the most representation at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America. While the heavyweights, including FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich, are there, an English club leads the chart.

Top 5 clubs with most players at FIFA World Cup 2026

The United States and FIFA are facing mounting criticism after reports emerged that players from Senegal and Uzbekistan were subjected to extensive security screenings upon arrival for the FIFA World Cup. According to multiple reports, members of the Senegal national team were required to undergo detailed bag inspections directly on the airport tarmac after landing in San Antonio. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s squad reportedly encountered drug-sniffing dogs and metal detector checks upon arriving at their training facility in New York.&nbsp;Images and videos of the screenings quickly circulated across social media, sparking outrage among football fans worldwide. Critics accused American authorities of treating international footballers ‘like criminals’ rather than welcoming them as participants in one of the world’s biggest sporting events. One social media user questioned whether the treatment was selective. “Did any white teams get treated like this, or is this treatment reserved for Senegal? Bizarre,” one user wrote.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Uzbekistan&#39;s national football team was subjected to lengthy, intrusive security checks in New York. Bags unpacked, metal detectors, tactical whiteboards inspected... Similar incidents involving Senegal and Iraq fueled accusations of discriminatory profiling by US security…&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2064258341128265888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Others directed their criticism toward FIFA, accusing the governing body of remaining silent while players from certain nations faced what many described as humiliating treatment. The controversy intensified after reports claimed that Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein was detained for seven hours at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The Iraqi team’s photographer was reportedly denied entry to the United States following a screening process that lasted around ten hours. In a separate incident, award-winning Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the country for undisclosed reasons.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-zee-entertainment-ramps-up-streaming-infrastructure-for-million-of-viewers-1781003204493">FIFA World Cup 2026: Zee Entertainment ramps up streaming infrastructure for million of viewers</a>&nbsp;The situation has also reignited concerns over travel restrictions affecting the tournament. US President Donald Trump’s administration has implemented visa bans and stricter entry requirements for several countries, including Senegal, the Ivory Coast, Haiti, and Iran, all of which have qualified for the World Cup. While players and official delegations were granted special clearance to enter the United States, many supporters from those nations have faced significant challenges in obtaining visas. According to BBC analysis, fans from more than a quarter of the countries participating in the World Cup are dealing with travel bans, visa restrictions, and elevated visa rejection rates.

FIFA and the United States are under scrutiny after reports that Senegal and Uzbekistan players faced extensive security screenings during the World Cup, sparking discrimination concerns and debate over travel restrictions

The United States and FIFA are facing mounting criticism after reports emerged that players from Senegal and Uzbekistan were subjected to extensive security screenings upon arrival for the FIFA World Cup. According to multiple reports, members of the Senegal national team were required to undergo detailed bag inspections directly on the airport tarmac after landing in San Antonio. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan’s squad reportedly encountered drug-sniffing dogs and metal detector checks upon arriving at their training facility in New York. Images and videos of the screenings quickly circulated across social media, sparking outrage among football fans worldwide. Critics accused American authorities of treating international footballers ‘like criminals’ rather than welcoming them as participants in one of the world’s biggest sporting events. One social media user questioned whether the treatment was selective. “Did any white teams get treated like this, or is this treatment reserved for Senegal? Bizarre,” one user wrote. Watch the video here

FIFA and the US face backlash after Senegal and Uzbekistan players reportedly underwent intensive security checks, raising concerns over discrimination, travel restrictions, and fan visa hurdles

‘Like criminals’: FIFA, US face backlash after Senegal and Uzbekistan players undergo intense security checks

Who rules international football? Discover the exclusive club of the only 8 nations to ever win FIFA World Cup titles, ranked from Brazil's historic dominance to Spain's modern masterpiece.

Who rules international football? Discover the exclusive club of the only 8 nations to ever win FIFA World Cup titles, ranked from Brazil's historic dominance to Spain's modern masterpiece.

Which countries have won FIFA World Cup? Top teams ranked

Which country reigns supreme in the ultimate match? Discover the top 5 highest-scoring nations in FIFA World Cup Final history, from Brazil's dominance to France's modern surge.

Which country reigns supreme in the ultimate match? Discover the top 5 highest-scoring nations in FIFA World Cup Final history, from Brazil's dominance to France's modern surge.

Top 5 Teams with Most Goals in FIFA World Cup Finals

As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, football fans across India are preparing to witness the world's biggest sporting spectacle live. In anticipation of the massive surge in viewership, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (Z) has significantly enhanced its technological capabilities to deliver a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience across its platforms. The company has strengthened platform resilience, upgraded its infrastructure, and implemented advanced content protection measures to ensure viewers enjoy uninterrupted access to live matches on both its linear television channels and digital platforms, Zee 5 and Unite8 Sports.&nbsp;Zee 5, the company's digital entertainment platform, has undergone extensive technology enhancements to support the unprecedented demand expected during the tournament. The platform has been scaled to accommodate millions of concurrent users through multiple layers of resiliency, fallback mechanisms, and enhanced observability tools designed to ensure high reliability and optimal performance.&nbsp;These upgrades are aimed at delivering uninterrupted, high-quality streaming experiences, even during peak traffic periods, allowing football fans across India to enjoy every moment of the tournament without disruption. In a major step toward protecting premium sports content, Zee Entertainment has also secured a favourable Dynamic Injunction from the Delhi High Court against online piracy. The injunction empowers the company to take real-time action against illegal streaming by enabling Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and regulators to swiftly block mirror and proxy websites. This move ensures that audiences access FIFA World Cup content through authorized and legitimate platforms.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-iran-alleges-ticket-allocation-withdrawn-days-before-tournament-leaving-fans-in-limbo-1781001565064">FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran alleges ticket allocation withdrawn days before tournament, leaving fans in limbo</a>&nbsp;Speaking on the technological readiness of the platforms, a Company Spokesperson said, "Z has implemented all the imperative measures to build a future-ready system that prioritizes stability and speed to deliver a superior viewer experience to millions of fans. A global sporting event on the scale of the FIFA World Cup 2026 requires advanced engineering and deep operational discipline. Our readiness reflects focused execution across technology, infrastructure, and operations to ensure uninterrupted service even at peak concurrency. Our integrated approach across linear and digital enables us to set new benchmarks in live sports streaming while ensuring that viewers enjoy a seamless World Cup experience.”&nbsp;With the FIFA World Cup 2026, Zee Entertainment is setting new standards in sports broadcasting by combining platform scalability, technological excellence, and robust legal safeguards. The company's comprehensive readiness reflects its commitment to delivering a secure, immersive, and world-class viewing experience, further strengthening its position as a trusted destination for live sports entertainment in India.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

Zee Entertainment enhances Zee 5 and Unite8 Sports with advanced infrastructure, platform scalability, and anti-piracy safeguards ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, football fans across India are preparing to witness the world's biggest sporting spectacle live. In anticipation of the massive surge in viewership, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (Z) has significantly enhanced its technological capabilities to deliver a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience across its platforms. The company has strengthened platform resilience, upgraded its infrastructure, and implemented advanced content protection measures to ensure viewers enjoy uninterrupted access to live matches on both its linear television channels and digital platforms, Zee 5 and Unite8 Sports. Zee 5, the company's digital entertainment platform, has undergone extensive technology enhancements to support the unprecedented demand expected during the tournament. The platform has been scaled to accommodate millions of concurrent users through multiple layers of resiliency, fallback mechanisms, and enhanced observability tools designed to ensure high reliability and optimal performance. These upgrades are aimed at delivering uninterrupted, high-quality streaming experiences, even during peak traffic periods, allowing football fans across India to enjoy every moment of the tournament without disruption. In a major step toward protecting premium sports content, Zee Entertainment has also secured a favourable Dynamic Injunction from the Delhi High Court against online piracy. The injunction empowers the company to take real-time action against illegal streaming by enabling Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and regulators to swiftly block mirror and proxy websites. This move ensures that audiences access FIFA World Cup content through authorized and legitimate platforms. Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran alleges ticket allocation withdrawn days before tournament, leaving fans in limbo Speaking on the technological readiness of the platforms, a Company Spokesperson said, "Z has implemented all the imperative measures to build a future-ready system that prioritizes stability and speed to deliver a superior viewer experience to millions of fans. A global sporting event on the scale of the FIFA World Cup 2026 requires advanced engineering and deep operational discipline. Our readiness reflects focused execution across technology, infrastructure, and operations to ensure uninterrupted service even at peak concurrency. Our integrated approach across linear and digital enables us to set new benchmarks in live sports streaming while ensuring that viewers enjoy a seamless World Cup experience.” With the FIFA World Cup 2026, Zee Entertainment is setting new standards in sports broadcasting by combining platform scalability, technological excellence, and robust legal safeguards. The company's comprehensive readiness reflects its commitment to delivering a secure, immersive, and world-class viewing experience, further strengthening its position as a trusted destination for live sports entertainment in India. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Zee Entertainment upgrades Zee 5 and Unite8 Sports with enhanced technology, scalability, and anti-piracy measures for FIFA World Cup 2026

FIFA World Cup 2026: Zee Entertainment ramps up streaming infrastructure for million of viewers

Football’s governing body (FIFA) has introduced several new initiatives for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The most significant is the introduction of hydration breaks midway through each half. FIFA announced in December last year that all 104 matches will see a 'three-minute' mandatory pause in each half to balance rising temperatures during the extended 48-team tournament held across the US, Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;In recent years, several major tournaments introduced drink breaks during games, but they were either allowed after the match referee’s permission or after a certain temperature threshold had been met. However, FIFA’s call to expand drinks breaks to all World Cup matches this time has been made after consultation with team coaches and broadcasters. This way, the governing body vows to look after the players’ welfare during the tournament.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-will-neymar-play-in-brazil-s-opening-match-against-morocco-all-on-his-latest-injury-update-1780998449800">FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Neymar play in Brazil's opening match against Morocco? Here's what we know</a><h3>What led to this decision?</h3>Even though FIFA has faced criticism over this decision, certain episodes last year during the revamped Club World Cup in the US forced the organisers to bring in this mandatory change. Several A-Listers, including coaches and players like Argentina and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, were critical of the playing conditions, with the superstar admitting to feeling ‘dizzy’ while playing in soaring temperatures, which he described as ‘very dangerous’. &nbsp;Three of Chelsea's games during that tournament were played around the same time (June and July) last year, with weather warnings urging people to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities. &nbsp;The then-Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca also admitted to having cut short training sessions amid ‘code red’ heat warnings in Philadelphia last June, one of the 16 venues scheduled to host FIFA World Cup matches. On the other hand, Spain’s Marcos Llorente said he felt ‘terribly hot’, adding, ‘My toes were sore, and my nails were hurting’ after featuring in Atletico Madrid’s 0-4 defeat at the hands of UCL champions PSG in California. &nbsp;“The measure is part of a focused attempt to ensure the best possible conditions for players, drawing upon the experiences of previous tournaments, including the recent FIFA Club World Cup,” FIFA said in a statement announcing the mandatory introduction of hydration breaks at the World Cup.

Why is FIFA pausing every match? Discover why mandatory hydration breaks are being introduced for all 104 games at the 2026 World Cup following extreme heat warnings and player health scares.

Football’s governing body (FIFA) has introduced several new initiatives for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The most significant is the introduction of hydration breaks midway through each half. FIFA announced in December last year that all 104 matches will see a 'three-minute' mandatory pause in each half to balance rising temperatures during the extended 48-team tournament held across the US, Canada and Mexico. In recent years, several major tournaments introduced drink breaks during games, but they were either allowed after the match referee’s permission or after a certain temperature threshold had been met. However, FIFA’s call to expand drinks breaks to all World Cup matches this time has been made after consultation with team coaches and broadcasters. This way, the governing body vows to look after the players’ welfare during the tournament. Also read | FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Neymar play in Brazil's opening match against Morocco? Here's what we know What led to this decision? Even though FIFA has faced criticism over this decision, certain episodes last year during the revamped Club World Cup in the US forced the organisers to bring in this mandatory change. Several A-Listers, including coaches and players like Argentina and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, were critical of the playing conditions, with the superstar admitting to feeling ‘dizzy’ while playing in soaring temperatures, which he described as ‘very dangerous’. Three of Chelsea's games during that tournament were played around the same time (June and July) last year, with weather warnings urging people to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities. The then-Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca also admitted to having cut short training sessions amid ‘code red’ heat warnings in Philadelphia last June, one of the 16 venues scheduled to host FIFA World Cup matches. On the other hand, Spain’s Marcos Llorente said he felt ‘terribly hot’, adding, ‘My toes were sore, and my nails were hurting’ after featuring in Atletico Madrid’s 0-4 defeat at the hands of UCL champions PSG in California. “The measure is part of a focused attempt to ensure the best possible conditions for players, drawing upon the experiences of previous tournaments, including the recent FIFA Club World Cup,” FIFA said in a statement announcing the mandatory introduction of hydration breaks at the World Cup.

Why is FIFA pausing every match? Discover why mandatory hydration breaks are being introduced for all 104 games at the 2026 World Cup following extreme heat warnings and player health scares.

‘Beat the Heat’ — Why FIFA is introducing mandatory hydration breaks for World Cup 2026

The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) has accused organisers of withdrawing its allocated World Cup tickets just days before the tournament begins, leaving many supporters who had already arranged travel plans unable to attend Iran’s matches. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday (June 11), with Iran scheduled to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.&nbsp;In a statement released on Tuesday (June 9), FFIRI said it had already started distributing tickets through the official process before being informed that the allocation would no longer be available to Iranian fans. The federation said that many supporters had already booked flights and accommodation based on the announced ticketing arrangements. It described the decision as unfair and contrary to the principles of equality and inclusivity that should govern international sporting events.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-will-neymar-play-in-brazil-s-opening-match-against-morocco-all-on-his-latest-injury-update-1780998449800">FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Neymar play in Brazil's opening match against Morocco? Here's what we know</a>&nbsp;FFIRI also expressed concern that political considerations may have influenced the decision, raising questions about non-sporting interference in the organisation of football’s biggest tournament. Under FIFA regulations, each participating federation receives 8% of match tickets to distribute among its supporters. While FFIRI did not identify who made the decision, it called on FIFA to uphold neutrality, fairness, and established rules to ensure all participating nations are treated equally.&nbsp;FIFA had not issued an immediate response to the federation’s claims. Iran’s World Cup preparations have been complicated by regional tensions following U.S. and Israeli air strikes on Iran earlier this year. Concerns over visa approvals and security led the team to relocate its base camp from Arizona to Mexico.&nbsp;Although U.S. authorities eventually granted visas to all Iranian players last week, several members of the team’s staff reportedly did not receive travel approval. On Tuesday, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström said he held a positive meeting with FFIRI President Mehdi Taj after the team arrived at its tournament base in Mexico. FIFA stated it would continue working closely with the Iranian delegation to ensure a smooth World Cup experience.

Iran's football federation claims its World Cup ticket allocation was withdrawn days before kickoff, leaving fans unable to attend matches despite travel plans

The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) has accused organisers of withdrawing its allocated World Cup tickets just days before the tournament begins, leaving many supporters who had already arranged travel plans unable to attend Iran’s matches. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday (June 11), with Iran scheduled to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. In a statement released on Tuesday (June 9), FFIRI said it had already started distributing tickets through the official process before being informed that the allocation would no longer be available to Iranian fans. The federation said that many supporters had already booked flights and accommodation based on the announced ticketing arrangements. It described the decision as unfair and contrary to the principles of equality and inclusivity that should govern international sporting events. Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Neymar play in Brazil's opening match against Morocco? Here's what we know FFIRI also expressed concern that political considerations may have influenced the decision, raising questions about non-sporting interference in the organisation of football’s biggest tournament. Under FIFA regulations, each participating federation receives 8% of match tickets to distribute among its supporters. While FFIRI did not identify who made the decision, it called on FIFA to uphold neutrality, fairness, and established rules to ensure all participating nations are treated equally. FIFA had not issued an immediate response to the federation’s claims. Iran’s World Cup preparations have been complicated by regional tensions following U.S. and Israeli air strikes on Iran earlier this year. Concerns over visa approvals and security led the team to relocate its base camp from Arizona to Mexico. Although U.S. authorities eventually granted visas to all Iranian players last week, several members of the team’s staff reportedly did not receive travel approval. On Tuesday, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström said he held a positive meeting with FFIRI President Mehdi Taj after the team arrived at its tournament base in Mexico. FIFA stated it would continue working closely with the Iranian delegation to ensure a smooth World Cup experience.

Iran says its FIFA World Cup ticket allocation was withdrawn before the tournament, leaving fans with travel plans unable to attend matches

FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran alleges ticket allocation withdrawn days before tournament, leaving fans in limbo

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here are five important and unique facts about the upcoming tournament.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here are five important and unique facts about the upcoming tournament.

FIFA World Cup 2026: 5 key facts you should know

Brazil has received positive news ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Neymar making significant progress in his recovery from a calf injury. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the forward's latest medical examination showed improvement in line with expectations. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, suffered a grade-two calf muscle tear last month and was initially expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Following a new scan conducted on Monday (June 8), the CBF said that the 34-year-old is responding well to treatment and will continue his rehabilitation and physical conditioning program under the supervision of the national team's medical staff. The injury has already ruled Neymar out of Brazil's recent warm-up victories over Panama and Egypt. However, the latest update has increased hopes that he could return in time for Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-playing-for-both-of-us-scotland-captain-robertson-pays-emotional-tribute-to-diogo-jota-1780995131529">FIFA 2026 | ‘Playing for both of us’: Scotland captain Robertson pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota</a>&nbsp;The Santos star has endured a series of injury setbacks in recent years, including a serious ACL and meniscus injury suffered while representing Brazil against Uruguay in October 2023. Fitness issues also disrupted his spell with Al Hilal before he returned to Santos in early 2025. With 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, Neymar is aiming to feature in his fourth World Cup after previously playing in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, will also face Scotland and Haiti during the group stage.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website.Link: <a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>

Brazil has confirmed Neymar is making strong progress in recovering from a calf injury, boosting hopes of his return for the FIFA 2026 World Cup opener

Brazil has received positive news ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Neymar making significant progress in his recovery from a calf injury. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the forward's latest medical examination showed improvement in line with expectations. Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer, suffered a grade-two calf muscle tear last month and was initially expected to be sidelined for two to three weeks. Following a new scan conducted on Monday (June 8), the CBF said that the 34-year-old is responding well to treatment and will continue his rehabilitation and physical conditioning program under the supervision of the national team's medical staff. The injury has already ruled Neymar out of Brazil's recent warm-up victories over Panama and Egypt. However, the latest update has increased hopes that he could return in time for Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13. Also Read: FIFA 2026 | ‘Playing for both of us’: Scotland captain Robertson pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota The Santos star has endured a series of injury setbacks in recent years, including a serious ACL and meniscus injury suffered while representing Brazil against Uruguay in October 2023. Fitness issues also disrupted his spell with Al Hilal before he returned to Santos in early 2025. With 79 goals in 128 appearances for Brazil, Neymar is aiming to feature in his fourth World Cup after previously playing in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 editions. Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, will also face Scotland and Haiti during the group stage. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches taking place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website. Link: https://www.zee5.com/

Neymar's World Cup hopes have been boosted after Brazil confirmed positive progress in his calf injury recovery ahead of the Morocco clash

FIFA World Cup 2026: Will Neymar play in Brazil's opening match against Morocco? Here's what we know

A major controversy has erupted ahead of the FIFA World Cup after an award-winning referee was reportedly dropped from the officiating panel. The decision has sparked debate across the football world, raising questions over selection criteria, performance evaluations, and internal disciplinary actions within FIFA. While officials have not provided detailed reasons for the removal, speculation is mounting among fans and analysts.


FIFA World Cup: Award Winning Referee Dropped from Officiating World Cup

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has revealed that he will carry the memory of his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota with him at the FIFA World Cup 2026, after receiving an emotional letter from the late forward’s widow, Rute Cardoso, ahead of the tournament. Robertson had previously said that Jota was among the first people he thought about when Scotland booked their place at the World Cup in November, according to Reuters.&nbsp;As part of FIFA’s “Letters That Unite” campaign, Robertson shared a touching message from Cardoso on Monday. In the letter, she reflected on the close friendship between the two players, recalling the experiences, challenges, conversations and dreams they shared throughout their careers.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Diogo often spoke of you, of the friendship you built, the battles you fought together, the challenges, the laughter, the conversations about football and about dreams," the letter read, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;"The World Cup was one of those dreams, a dream that the two of you nurtured side by side with the same passion with which you took to the pitch. When I heard your words and learnt what you felt on that day when Scotland qualified for the World Cup after so many years of waiting, I realised that Diogo never truly left the pitch. By achieving that moment and securing your place at the World Cup, you won't be going alone; you'll be taking his dream with you too," he added. "I'm not only just playing for me, I'm playing for both of us," he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-meet-legend-with-two-world-cup-appearance-two-finals-and-most-goals-in-finals-already-who-is-1780991474271">FIFA 2026 | Meet 27-year-old with two WCs, two finals, &amp; most goals in finals</a>&nbsp;Jota tragically lost his life in a car accident in Spain in July last year at the age of 28. His brother, Andre Silva, was also killed in the crash.&nbsp;Scotland begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on Jun 13 against Haiti in Group C, before taking on Morocco and Brazil in their remaining group-stage fixtures.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-painful-but-luckily-i-play-with-my-feet-spence-with-broken-jaw-ready-to-go-the-extra-mile-for-england-at-world-cup-1780986530616">FIFA 2026 | Spence, with broken jaw, ready to go extra mile for England at WC</a><h2>Scotland's World Cup 2026 squad</h2>Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly Defenders: Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Aaron Hickey, Dom Hyam, Scott McKenna, Nathan Patterson, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar and Kieran Tierney Midfielders: Ryan Christie, Findlay Curtis, Lewis Ferguson, Tyler Fletcher, Ben Gannon-Doak, John McGinn, Kenny McLean and Scott McTominay Forwards: Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes, George Hirst, Lawrence Shankland and Ross Stewart&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Scotland captain Andy Robertson said that he will carry Diogo Jota’s memory with him at the FIFA World Cup after receiving a heartfelt letter from the late forward’s widow, Rute Cardoso.

Scotland captain Andy Robertson has revealed that he will carry the memory of his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota with him at the FIFA World Cup 2026, after receiving an emotional letter from the late forward’s widow, Rute Cardoso, ahead of the tournament. Robertson had previously said that Jota was among the first people he thought about when Scotland booked their place at the World Cup in November, according to Reuters. As part of FIFA’s “Letters That Unite” campaign, Robertson shared a touching message from Cardoso on Monday. In the letter, she reflected on the close friendship between the two players, recalling the experiences, challenges, conversations and dreams they shared throughout their careers. "Diogo often spoke of you, of the friendship you built, the battles you fought together, the challenges, the laughter, the conversations about football and about dreams," the letter read, as quoted by Reuters. "The World Cup was one of those dreams, a dream that the two of you nurtured side by side with the same passion with which you took to the pitch. When I heard your words and learnt what you felt on that day when Scotland qualified for the World Cup after so many years of waiting, I realised that Diogo never truly left the pitch. By achieving that moment and securing your place at the World Cup, you won't be going alone; you'll be taking his dream with you too," he added. "I'm not only just playing for me, I'm playing for both of us," he said. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | Meet 27-year-old with two WCs, two finals, & most goals in finals Jota tragically lost his life in a car accident in Spain in July last year at the age of 28. His brother, Andre Silva, was also killed in the crash. Scotland begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on Jun 13 against Haiti in Group C, before taking on Morocco and Brazil in their remaining group-stage fixtures. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | Spence, with broken jaw, ready to go extra mile for England at WC Scotland's World Cup 2026 squad Goalkeepers: Craig Gordon, Angus Gunn and Liam Kelly Defenders: Grant Hanley, Jack Hendry, Aaron Hickey, Dom Hyam, Scott McKenna, Nathan Patterson, Anthony Ralston, Andy Robertson, John Souttar and Kieran Tierney Midfielders: Ryan Christie, Findlay Curtis, Lewis Ferguson, Tyler Fletcher, Ben Gannon-Doak, John McGinn, Kenny McLean and Scott McTominay Forwards: Che Adams, Lyndon Dykes, George Hirst, Lawrence Shankland and Ross Stewart With inputs from agencies

Scotland captain Andy Robertson said that he will carry Diogo Jota’s memory with him at the FIFA World Cup after receiving a heartfelt letter from the late forward’s widow, Rute Cardoso.

FIFA 2026 | ‘Playing for both of us’: Scotland captain Robertson pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota

Playing in a football World Cup final is dream of every player and to be able to score a goal ensure a place in elite history. There have been 22 finals since the inception of the tournament in 1930 and 80 goals have been scored at an average of 3.6 goals per game - making final goals a coveted feat. Only 62 players have been able to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final in the history with only 12 players being able to score multiple goals across the finals. In a single FIFA final, only 10 players have been able to score multiple goals. But who has the most goals in FIFA World Cup final history? The answer is not Pele or Messi but France's Kylian Mbappe.<h2>Who has scored most goals in FIFA World Cup finals?</h2>It takes special talent to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final and to be able to score multiples is just extraordinary. Only 12 players in the history have been able to multiple goals in FIFA World Cup finals over 92-year span. And more intrestingly, only two players have been able to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 and Kylian Mbappe for France in 2022.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-painful-but-luckily-i-play-with-my-feet-spence-with-broken-jaw-ready-to-go-the-extra-mile-for-england-at-world-cup-1780986530616">FIFA 2026 | 'Painful but luckily I play with my feet': Spence, with broken jaw, ready to go the extra mile for England at World Cup</a>The record for most goals overall in the FIFA World Cup finals, however, is with Mbappe - who has four goals to his name in total - 1 in 2018 and three in 2022. Mbappe is ahead of legends like Lionel Messi, Pele and Diego Maradona as well. Here's the list of players with most goals in FIFA World Cup finals:<ul><li>Kylian Mbappe (France) - 4</li><li>Geoff Hurst (England) - 3</li><li>Vava (Brazil) - 3</li><li>Pele (Brazil) - 3</li><li>Zinedine Zidane (France) - 3</li></ul><h2>Which team has scored more goals in FIFA World Cup finals?</h2>Brazil, with 15 goals, leads the tally of teams with most goals in FIFA World Cup Finals. France comes next with 11 goals followed by Italy (10), Germany (10), and Argentina (9).With FIFA World Cup 2026 set to start on Thursday (Jun 11), many of these teams, if they reach the final, have a chance to increase their tally.

It takes special talent to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final and to be able to score multiples is just extraordinary. Only two players have been able to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 and Kylian Mbappe for France in 2022.

Playing in a football World Cup final is dream of every player and to be able to score a goal ensure a place in elite history. There have been 22 finals since the inception of the tournament in 1930 and 80 goals have been scored at an average of 3.6 goals per game - making final goals a coveted feat. Only 62 players have been able to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final in the history with only 12 players being able to score multiple goals across the finals. In a single FIFA final, only 10 players have been able to score multiple goals. But who has the most goals in FIFA World Cup final history? The answer is not Pele or Messi but France's Kylian Mbappe. Who has scored most goals in FIFA World Cup finals? It takes special talent to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final and to be able to score multiples is just extraordinary. Only 12 players in the history have been able to multiple goals in FIFA World Cup finals over 92-year span. And more intrestingly, only two players have been able to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 and Kylian Mbappe for France in 2022. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | 'Painful but luckily I play with my feet': Spence, with broken jaw, ready to go the extra mile for England at World Cup The record for most goals overall in the FIFA World Cup finals, however, is with Mbappe - who has four goals to his name in total - 1 in 2018 and three in 2022. Mbappe is ahead of legends like Lionel Messi, Pele and Diego Maradona as well. Here's the list of players with most goals in FIFA World Cup finals: Kylian Mbappe (France) - 4 Geoff Hurst (England) - 3 Vava (Brazil) - 3 Pele (Brazil) - 3 Zinedine Zidane (France) - 3 Which team has scored more goals in FIFA World Cup finals? Brazil, with 15 goals, leads the tally of teams with most goals in FIFA World Cup Finals. France comes next with 11 goals followed by Italy (10), Germany (10), and Argentina (9). With FIFA World Cup 2026 set to start on Thursday (Jun 11), many of these teams, if they reach the final, have a chance to increase their tally.

It takes special talent to score a goal in a FIFA World Cup final and to be able to score multiples is just extraordinary. Only two players have been able to score a hat-trick in a FIFA World Cup Final - Geoff Hurst for England in 1966 and Kylian Mbappe for France in 2022.

FIFA 2026 | Meet 27-year-old legend with two world cup appearance, two finals, and most goals in finals already

England's Djed Spence is heading into his first FIFA World Cup with a fractured jaw but that has not broken his spirit. The Tottenham full-back, who made history last September as England's first Muslim senior international, earned his place in Thomas Tuchel's squad despite the injury. He was the one to offer an assist to Harry Kane's winner in England's 1-0 friendly victory over New Zealand while managing the condition. He uses a jaw support for his condition and acknowledged being in pain but remains to determined to play.<h2>How did Spence broke his jaw?</h2>Spence sustained a broken jaw in a challenge with Chelsea striker Liam Delap during the penultimate game of the Premier League. The injury will require three months to fully heal which means he will play the entire World Cup wearing a protective mask. The timing was brutal, arriving just days before the squad announcement and sparking widespread debate about whether he should travel at all. Yet Spence refused to let it define him.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-somali-referee-artan-dropped-from-world-cup-official-list-after-us-denies-entry-1780975545587">FIFA 2026 | Somali referee dropped from WC official list after US denies entry</a>"It's a little bit uncomfortable, but it is what it is," Spence told reporters, brushing aside any suggestion the injury might hamper his contribution. In typically grounded fashion, he put the whole episode in perspective: "It was painful but luckily I play football with my feet and not my jaw," he said.On his World Cup call-up, Spence said: "It shows the manager believes in me, believes in my quality and I'm thankful for him and I just want to keep on putting in the performances to make everyone happy. It's a huge honour, to play for your country is a big thing and I'm over the moon and happy to be here. It's been a difficult season. There's always light at the end of the tunnel."<h2>England schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>England have been drawn in Group L and will open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Notably, the Englishmen were knocked out by Croatia at the semi-final stage in 2018. They face Ghana next on June 23 at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before rounding off the group stage against Panama on June 27 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.&nbsp;

Spence will wear a protective mask at the World Cup after breaking his jaw in training, but insists it won't affect him. "I play football with my feet, not my jaw," the Tottenham defender said.

England's Djed Spence is heading into his first FIFA World Cup with a fractured jaw but that has not broken his spirit. The Tottenham full-back, who made history last September as England's first Muslim senior international, earned his place in Thomas Tuchel's squad despite the injury. He was the one to offer an assist to Harry Kane's winner in England's 1-0 friendly victory over New Zealand while managing the condition. He uses a jaw support for his condition and acknowledged being in pain but remains to determined to play. How did Spence broke his jaw? Spence sustained a broken jaw in a challenge with Chelsea striker Liam Delap during the penultimate game of the Premier League. The injury will require three months to fully heal which means he will play the entire World Cup wearing a protective mask. The timing was brutal, arriving just days before the squad announcement and sparking widespread debate about whether he should travel at all. Yet Spence refused to let it define him. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | Somali referee dropped from WC official list after US denies entry "It's a little bit uncomfortable, but it is what it is," Spence told reporters, brushing aside any suggestion the injury might hamper his contribution. In typically grounded fashion, he put the whole episode in perspective: "It was painful but luckily I play football with my feet and not my jaw," he said. On his World Cup call-up, Spence said: "It shows the manager believes in me, believes in my quality and I'm thankful for him and I just want to keep on putting in the performances to make everyone happy. It's a huge honour, to play for your country is a big thing and I'm over the moon and happy to be here. It's been a difficult season. There's always light at the end of the tunnel." England schedule in FIFA World Cup 2026 England have been drawn in Group L and will open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Notably, the Englishmen were knocked out by Croatia at the semi-final stage in 2018. They face Ghana next on June 23 at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before rounding off the group stage against Panama on June 27 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Spence will wear a protective mask at the World Cup after breaking his jaw in training, but insists it won't affect him. "I play football with my feet, not my jaw," the Tottenham defender said.

FIFA 2026 | 'Painful but luckily I play with my feet': Spence, with broken jaw, ready to go the extra mile for England at World Cup

Omar Artan, who was poised to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, has been dropped from the tournament after being denied entry into the United States. Artan, the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) men's referee of the year, was turned away at Miami International Airport and is currently in Turkey. No official reason has been provided by US immigration authorities for his repatriation. Notably, Somalia is among several nations on a travel ban list introduced by President Donald Trump's administration. A senior adviser to Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports confirmed the denial to the BBC, stating that Artan had been travelling on valid documents.<h2>What did FIFA say about Somali ref's deportation form US?</h2>The deportation comes even as Artan was issued a diplomatic passport - A Somali embassy official in Nairobi told the BBC that Artan had even been issued a diplomatic passport specifically to ease his travel, following earlier visa difficulties, underscoring the deliberate nature of the exclusion.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-iran-team-told-to-enter-leave-us-on-match-days-under-strict-rule-1780804865166">FIFA 2026: Iran team told to enter &amp; leave US on match days under strict rule</a>FIFA confirmed Artan's exclusion in an official statement, saying that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan "will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States."The governing body distanced itself from the decision, noting it "is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications," and acknowledged that it had been informed by authorities that Artan's status would not be reversed.FIFA added that, in line with its position at previous tournaments, "a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country."On the US side, Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House Task Force on the World Cup, told BBC World Service. "While I can't go into the derog on that. I can tell you it was the right decision by customs and border patrol and I support that decision."<h2>US ICE's role at World Cup in focus again</h2>The Artan episode has renewed the debate about the role of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the 2026 World Cup. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed that ICE would be present at the tournament, saying agents were not there to enforce "mass immigration" but to "enforce the law," and that anyone deemed a criminal would be arrested.The Artan incident comes after an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-iraq-forward-held-for-seven-hours-by-us-authorities-here-s-what-we-know-1780802263358">Iraqi player was detained for seven hours</a> at Chicago airport while the team's official photographer was denied the entry.

FIFA confirmed Artan's exclusion in an official statement, saying that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan "will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States."The governing body distanced itself from the decision, noting it "is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications," and acknowledged that it had been informed by authorities that Artan's status would not be reversed.FIFA added that, in line with its position at previous tournaments, "a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country."On the US side, Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House Task Force on the World Cup, told BBC World Service. "While I can't go into the derog on that. I can tell you it was the right decision by customs and border patrol and I support that decision."<h2>US ICE's role at World Cup in focus again</h2>The Artan episode has renewed the debate about the role of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the 2026 World Cup. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed that ICE would be present at the tournament, saying agents were not there to enforce "mass immigration" but to "enforce the law," and that anyone deemed a criminal would be arrested.The Artan incident comes after an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-iraq-forward-held-for-seven-hours-by-us-authorities-here-s-what-we-know-1780802263358">Iraqi player was detained for seven hours</a> at Chicago airport while the team's official photographer was denied the entry.

Somali referee Omar Artan, set to be the first from his nation at a World Cup, was denied US entry and dropped from the tournament. The White House backed the decision, offering no explanation.

Omar Artan, who was poised to become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup, has been dropped from the tournament after being denied entry into the United States. Artan, the 2025 Confederation of African Football (CAF) men's referee of the year, was turned away at Miami International Airport and is currently in Turkey. No official reason has been provided by US immigration authorities for his repatriation. Notably, Somalia is among several nations on a travel ban list introduced by President Donald Trump's administration. A senior adviser to Somalia's Ministry of Youth and Sports confirmed the denial to the BBC, stating that Artan had been travelling on valid documents. What did FIFA say about Somali ref's deportation form US? The deportation comes even as Artan was issued a diplomatic passport - A Somali embassy official in Nairobi told the BBC that Artan had even been issued a diplomatic passport specifically to ease his travel, following earlier visa difficulties, underscoring the deliberate nature of the exclusion. Also Read - FIFA 2026: Iran team told to enter & leave US on match days under strict rule FIFA confirmed Artan's exclusion in an official statement, saying that match official Omar Abdulkadir Artan "will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States." The governing body distanced itself from the decision, noting it "is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications," and acknowledged that it had been informed by authorities that Artan's status would not be reversed. FIFA added that, in line with its position at previous tournaments, "a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country." On the US side, Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House Task Force on the World Cup, told BBC World Service. "While I can't go into the derog on that. I can tell you it was the right decision by customs and border patrol and I support that decision." US ICE's role at World Cup in focus again The Artan episode has renewed the debate about the role of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the 2026 World Cup. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed that ICE would be present at the tournament, saying agents were not there to enforce "mass immigration" but to "enforce the law," and that anyone deemed a criminal would be arrested. The Artan incident comes after an Iraqi player was detained for seven hours at Chicago airport while the team's official photographer was denied the entry.

Somali referee Omar Artan, set to be the first from his nation at a World Cup, was denied US entry and dropped from the tournament. The White House backed the decision, offering no explanation.

FIFA 2026 | Somali referee Artan dropped from World Cup official list after US denies entry

With less than a week to go before the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across the United States, Mexico and Canada, excitement is building rapidly among football supporters worldwide. Fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament to see whether a new champion will be crowned or if Argentina can retain the trophy they lifted in 2022. The World Cup 2026 will mark a historic milestone as the biggest edition of the tournament ever happened. For the first time, 48 nations will compete, expanding the field from the previous 32-team format.&nbsp;&nbsp;Africa will have 10 representatives, while Asia will send nine teams, highlighting the growing influence of regions that have yet to produce a World Cup winner. They will compete alongside 16 European qualifiers and six South American teams in a global showcase of football.&nbsp;The tournament will also set a new record for scale and duration, as a total of 104 matches will be played over 39 days, making it the longest World Cup in history. Compared with the 2022 tournament in Qatar, fans can look forward to 40 additional matches.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-sibling-rivals-prepare-to-face-off-for-different-countries-1780929274874">FIFA World Cup 2026: Sibling rivals prepare to face off for different countries</a><h3>Groups</h3>Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Czechia&nbsp;Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina&nbsp;Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti&nbsp;Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey&nbsp;Group E: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curacao&nbsp;Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia&nbsp;Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand&nbsp;Group H: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde&nbsp;Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Iran&nbsp;Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan&nbsp;Group K: Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo, Uzbekistan&nbsp;Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.&nbsp;All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/portugal-s-probable-xi-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-diogo-costa-joao-cancelo-ruben-dias-goncalo-inacio-nuno-mendes-joao-neves-vitinha-cristiano-ronaldo-1780935283131">Portugal’s probable XI for FIFA World Cup 2026</a><h2>Check out the full schedule</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Match</th><th>Date</th><th>Day</th><th>Time (IST)</th><th>Home</th><th>Venue</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1</td><td>June 12</td><td>Fri</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Mexico vs South Africa</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>June 12</td><td>Fri</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>South Korea vs Czechia</td><td>Zapopan</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>June 13</td><td>Sat</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Canada vs Bosnia and Herzegovina</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>June 13</td><td>Sat</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>USA vs Paraguay</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>June 14</td><td>Sun</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>Qatar vs Switzerland</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>June 14</td><td>Sun</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>Brazil vs Morocco</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>June 14</td><td>Sun</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>Haiti vs Scotland</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>June 14</td><td>Sun</td><td>9:30 AM</td><td>Australia vs Turkey</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>June 14</td><td>Sun</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>Germany vs Curaçao</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>June 15</td><td>Mon</td><td>1:30 AM</td><td>Netherlands vs Japan</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>June 15</td><td>Mon</td><td>4.30 AM</td><td>Ivory Coast vs Ecuador</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>June 15</td><td>Mon</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>Sweden vs Tunisia</td><td>Guadalajara</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>June 15</td><td>Mon</td><td>9:30 PM</td><td>Spain vs Cape Verde</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>June 16</td><td>Tues</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>Belgium vs Egypt</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>June 16</td><td>Tues</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>June 16</td><td>Tues</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>Iran vs New Zealand</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>June 17</td><td>Wed</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>France vs Senegal</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>June 17</td><td>Wed</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>Iraq vs Norway</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>June 17</td><td>Wed</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>Argentina vs Algeria</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>June 17</td><td>Wed</td><td>9.30 AM</td><td>Austria vs Jordan</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>June 17</td><td>Wed</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>Portugal vs DR Congo</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>June 18</td><td>Thu</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>England vs Croatia</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>June 18</td><td>Thu</td><td>4:30 AM</td><td>Ghana vs Panama</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>June 18</td><td>Thu</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>Uzbekistan vs Colombia</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>June 18</td><td>Thu</td><td>9:30 PM</td><td>Czechia vs South Africa</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>June 19</td><td>Fri</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>Switzerland vs Bosnia and Herzegovina</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>June 19</td><td>Fri</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>Canada vs Qatar</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>June 19</td><td>Fri</td><td>6.30 AM</td><td>Mexico vs South Korea</td><td>Zapopan</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>June 20</td><td>Sat</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>USA vs Australia</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>June 20</td><td>Sat</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>Scotland vs Morocco</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>31</td><td>June 20</td><td>Sat</td><td>6 AM</td><td>Brazil vs Haiti</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>32</td><td>June 20</td><td>Sat</td><td>8.30 AM</td><td>Turkey vs Paraguay</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>33</td><td>June 20</td><td>Sat</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>Netherlands vs Sweden</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>34</td><td>June 21</td><td>Sun</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>Germany vs Ivory Coast</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>35</td><td>June 21</td><td>Sun</td><td>5.30 AM</td><td>Ecuador vs Curaçao</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>36</td><td>June 21</td><td>Sun</td><td>9.30 AM</td><td>Tunisia vs Japan</td><td>Guadalajara</td></tr><tr><td>37</td><td>June 21</td><td>Sun</td><td>9:30 PM</td><td>Spain vs Saudi Arabia</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>38</td><td>June 22</td><td>Mon</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Belgium vs Iran</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>39</td><td>June 22</td><td>Mon</td><td>3.30 AM</td><td>Uruguay vs Cape Verde</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>40</td><td>June 22</td><td>Mon</td><td>6.30 AM</td><td>New Zealand vs Egypt</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>41</td><td>June 22</td><td>Mon</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>Argentina vs Austria</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>42</td><td>June 23</td><td>Tues</td><td>2.30 AM</td><td>France vs Iraq</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>43</td><td>June 23</td><td>Tues</td><td>5.30 AM</td><td>Norway vs Senegal</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>44</td><td>June 23</td><td>Tues</td><td>8:30 AM</td><td>Jordan vs Algeria</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>45</td><td>June 23</td><td>Tues</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>Portugal vs Uzbekistan</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>46</td><td>June 24</td><td>Wed</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>England vs Ghana</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>47</td><td>June 24</td><td>Wed</td><td>4:30 AM</td><td>Panama vs Croatia</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>48</td><td>June 24</td><td>Wed</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>Colombia vs DR Congo</td><td>Zapopan</td></tr><tr><td>49</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>Switzerland vs Canada</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>50</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>51</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>3.30 AM</td><td>Morocco vs Haiti</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>52</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>3.30 AM</td><td>Scotland vs Brazil</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>53</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>6.30 AM</td><td>South Africa vs South Korea</td><td>Guadalajara</td></tr><tr><td>54</td><td>June 25</td><td>Thu</td><td>6.30 AM</td><td>Czechia vs Mexico</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>55</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>Curaçao vs Ivory Coast</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>56</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>Ecuador vs Germany</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>57</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>4.30 AM</td><td>Tunisia vs Netherlands</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>58</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>4.30 AM</td><td>Japan vs Sweden</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>59</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>Turkey vs USA</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>60</td><td>June 26</td><td>Fri</td><td>7:30 AM</td><td>Paraguay vs Australia</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>61</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Norway vs France</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>62</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Senegal vs Iraq</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>63</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>5.30 AM</td><td>Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>64</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>5.30 AM</td><td>Uruguay vs Spain</td><td>Zapopan</td></tr><tr><td>65</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>8:30 AM</td><td>New Zealand vs Belgium</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>66</td><td>June 27</td><td>Sat</td><td>8:30 AM</td><td>Egypt vs Iran</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>67</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>Panama vs England</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>68</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>Croatia vs Ghana</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>69</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>5 AM</td><td>Colombia vs Portugal</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>70</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>5 AM</td><td>DR Congo vs Uzbekistan</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>71</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>7.30 AM</td><td>Algeria vs Austria</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>72</td><td>June 28</td><td>Sun</td><td>7.30 AM</td><td>Jordan vs Argentina</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>73</td><td>Jun 29</td><td>Mon</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group A runners-up vs Group B runners-up</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>74</td><td>June 29</td><td>Mon</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>R-32: Group C winners vs Group F runners-up</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>75</td><td>June 30</td><td>Tues</td><td>2:00 AM</td><td>R-32: Group E winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>76</td><td>June 30</td><td>Tues</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group F winners vs Group C runners-up</td><td>Guadalajara</td></tr><tr><td>77</td><td>June 30</td><td>Tues</td><td>10.30 PM</td><td>R-32: Group E runners-up vs Group I runners-up</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>78</td><td>July 1</td><td>Wed</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group I winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>79</td><td>July 1</td><td>Wed</td><td>6:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group A winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>80</td><td>July 1</td><td>Wed</td><td>9:30 PM</td><td>R-32: Group L winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>81</td><td>July 2</td><td>Thu</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group G winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>82</td><td>July 2</td><td>Thu</td><td>1.30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group D winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Santa Clara</td></tr><tr><td>83</td><td>July 2</td><td>Thu</td><td>5:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group H winners vs Group J runners-up</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>84</td><td>July 3</td><td>Fri</td><td>12:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group K runners-up vs Group L runners-up</td><td>Toronto</td></tr><tr><td>85</td><td>July 3</td><td>Fri</td><td>4:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group B winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>86</td><td>July 3</td><td>Fri</td><td>8:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group D runners-up vs Group G runners-up</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>87</td><td>July 3</td><td>Fri</td><td>11.30 PM</td><td>R-32: Group J winners vs Group H runners-up</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>88</td><td>July 4</td><td>Sat</td><td>3:30 AM</td><td>R-32: Group K winners vs Best Third-Placed Team</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>89</td><td>July 4</td><td>Sat</td><td>7:00 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 73 vs Winner Match 75</td><td>Houston</td></tr><tr><td>90</td><td>July 4</td><td>Sat</td><td>10:30 PM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 74 vs Winner Match 77</td><td>Philadelphia</td></tr><tr><td>91</td><td>July 5</td><td>Sun</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 76 vs Winner Match 78</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr><tr><td>92</td><td>July 6</td><td>Mon</td><td>1:30 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 79 vs Winner Match 80</td><td>Mexico City</td></tr><tr><td>93</td><td>July 6</td><td>Mon</td><td>5:30 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 83 vs Winner Match 84</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>94</td><td>July 7</td><td>Tues</td><td>1:30 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 81 vs Winner Match 82</td><td>Seattle</td></tr><tr><td>95</td><td>July 7</td><td>Tues</td><td>9:30 PM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 86 vs Winner Match 88</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>96</td><td>July 8</td><td>Wed</td><td>1:30 AM</td><td>R16: Winner Match 85 vs Winner Match 87</td><td>Vancouver</td></tr><tr><td>97</td><td>July 10</td><td>Fri</td><td>1:30 AM</td><td>QF: Winner Match 89 vs Winner Match 90</td><td>Foxborough</td></tr><tr><td>98</td><td>July 11</td><td>Sat</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>QF: Winner Match 93 vs Winner Match 94</td><td>Los Angeles</td></tr><tr><td>99</td><td>July 12</td><td>Sun</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>QF: Winner Match 91 vs Winner Match 92</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>100</td><td>July 12</td><td>Sun</td><td>6.30 AM</td><td>QF: Winner Match 95 vs Winner Match 96</td><td>Kansas City</td></tr><tr><td>101</td><td>July 15</td><td>Wed</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>SF: Winner Match 97 vs Winner Match 98</td><td>Arlington</td></tr><tr><td>102</td><td>July 16</td><td>Thu</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>SF: Winner Match 99 vs Winner Match 100</td><td>Atlanta</td></tr><tr><td>103</td><td>July 19</td><td>Sun</td><td>2:30 AM</td><td>Third Place: Loser Match 101 vs Loser Match 102</td><td>Miami</td></tr><tr><td>104</td><td>July 20</td><td>Mon</td><td>12.30 AM</td><td>Final: Winner Match 101 vs Winner Match 102</td><td>New Jersey</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest edition in history, with 104 matches scheduled over 39 days.

With less than a week to go before the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across the United States, Mexico and Canada, excitement is building rapidly among football supporters worldwide. Fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament to see whether a new champion will be crowned or if Argentina can retain the trophy they lifted in 2022. The World Cup 2026 will mark a historic milestone as the biggest edition of the tournament ever happened. For the first time, 48 nations will compete, expanding the field from the previous 32-team format. Africa will have 10 representatives, while Asia will send nine teams, highlighting the growing influence of regions that have yet to produce a World Cup winner. They will compete alongside 16 European qualifiers and six South American teams in a global showcase of football. The tournament will also set a new record for scale and duration, as a total of 104 matches will be played over 39 days, making it the longest World Cup in history. Compared with the 2022 tournament in Qatar, fans can look forward to 40 additional matches. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Sibling rivals prepare to face off for different countries Groups Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Czechia Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey Group E: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curacao Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand Group H: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Iran Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan Group K: Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo, Uzbekistan Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (https://www.zee5.com/). Also Check - Portugal’s probable XI for FIFA World Cup 2026 Check out the full schedule

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest edition in history, with 104 matches scheduled over 39 days.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Complete schedule, fixtures, venues, live streaming details & more

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here’s a look at Portugal’s probable XI for the upcoming season.

As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, here’s a look at Portugal’s probable XI for the upcoming season.

Portugal’s probable XI for FIFA World Cup 2026

Four sets of brothers will take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026, each representing different countries. Their stories show how migration has influenced modern football and created unique international connections. One example is the Doue brothers, both were born in France, but they play for different national teams. Younger brother Desire Doue, a rising star at Paris Saint-Germain, represents France, while his older brother Guela Doue plays as a fullback for Ivory Coast, the country of their father’s origin.&nbsp;The Williams brothers also represent different nations, as both Inaki and Nico Williams were born in the Basque region of Spain. Nico, now 23, played a key role in Spain’s European Championship victory over England two years ago and was named Player of the Match in the final.&nbsp;&nbsp;His older brother Inaki, who turns 32 next week, made one appearance for Spain in a friendly match. Later, he was able to switch his national team and chose to play for Ghana, the country where his parents are from.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christian-eriksen-collapses-during-friendly-game-against-ukraine-match-abandoned-1780856508648">Christian Eriksen collapses during friendly game against Ukraine; game abandoned</a>&nbsp;Ghana’s World Cup squad also includes Dutch-born defender Derrick Luckassen, who was called up as a late injury replacement and will join his half-brother Brian Brobbey at the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;While, Brobbey is a back-up striker for the Netherlands and arrives after an impressive second half of the Premier League season with Sunderland. The brothers share the same mother but have different fathers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-ederson-replaces-injured-wesley-in-brazil-squad-1780910821209">FIFA World Cup 2026: Ederson replaces injured Wesley in Brazil squad</a>&nbsp;Another sibling pair is Harry and John Souttar. Harry, a 27-year-old centre-back born in Scotland, represents Australia, while his older brother John plays for Scotland. Both were born in Aberdeen, but their mother is Australian. Harry chose to play for Australia seven years ago after previously representing Scotland at youth level.&nbsp;None of these brothers are scheduled to face each other during the group stage.&nbsp;<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Desire Doue and his older brother Guela were born in France. Desire, a PSG youngster, plays for France, while Guela represents Ivory Coast, their father’s home country.

Four sets of brothers will take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026, each representing different countries. Their stories show how migration has influenced modern football and created unique international connections. One example is the Doue brothers, both were born in France, but they play for different national teams. Younger brother Desire Doue, a rising star at Paris Saint-Germain, represents France, while his older brother Guela Doue plays as a fullback for Ivory Coast, the country of their father’s origin. The Williams brothers also represent different nations, as both Inaki and Nico Williams were born in the Basque region of Spain. Nico, now 23, played a key role in Spain’s European Championship victory over England two years ago and was named Player of the Match in the final. His older brother Inaki, who turns 32 next week, made one appearance for Spain in a friendly match. Later, he was able to switch his national team and chose to play for Ghana, the country where his parents are from. Also Read - Christian Eriksen collapses during friendly game against Ukraine; game abandoned Ghana’s World Cup squad also includes Dutch-born defender Derrick Luckassen, who was called up as a late injury replacement and will join his half-brother Brian Brobbey at the tournament. While, Brobbey is a back-up striker for the Netherlands and arrives after an impressive second half of the Premier League season with Sunderland. The brothers share the same mother but have different fathers. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Ederson replaces injured Wesley in Brazil squad Another sibling pair is Harry and John Souttar. Harry, a 27-year-old centre-back born in Scotland, represents Australia, while his older brother John plays for Scotland. Both were born in Aberdeen, but their mother is Australian. Harry chose to play for Australia seven years ago after previously representing Scotland at youth level. None of these brothers are scheduled to face each other during the group stage. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (https://www.zee5.com/). With inputs from agencies

Desire Doue and his older brother Guela were born in France. Desire, a PSG youngster, plays for France, while Guela represents Ivory Coast, their father’s home country.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Sibling rivals prepare to face off for different countries

Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt an early blow after defender Wesley was ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury. The loss has prompted head coach Carlo Ancelotti to bring in Ederson as a replacement ahead of the team’s opening fixture.&nbsp;The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Sunday that Wesley suffered an adductor muscle injury in his left thigh during Brazil’s 2-1 friendly win over Egypt in Cleveland on Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Medical scans carried out after the match confirmed the extent of the issue, forcing the AS Roma defender to withdraw ahead of Brazil’s opening Group C match.&nbsp;In a statement, the CBF expressed disappointment over the setback, noting that Wesley remains a valued member of the squad and will continue to be part of the team’s long-term plans as Brazil pursues a record-extending sixth World Cup crown.&nbsp;"The MRI scan revealed a muscle injury to the adductor muscle in his left thigh," the CBF said in an official statement, as per Reuters. "The CBF regrets the injury. Wesley is a player much loved by the squad and will always be considered part of this team as it seeks to win its sixth World Cup title."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba-finals-at-msg-trump-and-penn-station-stabbing-new-york-s-world-cup-readiness-came-into-question-1780907916869">Trump at MSG forces watch party shutdown — Penn Station stabbing adds to NYC's security concern</a>&nbsp;His absence leaves Brazil without a specialist right-back among their 26 selected players, presenting a tactical challenge for Ancelotti. The coach is expected to turn to versatile defenders Danilo and Ibanez to provide cover in the position during the tournament.&nbsp;To replace Wesley, Brazil have called up Ederson, who is set to link up with the squad in the United States on Monday.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-1st-test-manav-suthar-takes-over-ashwin-to-become-india-s-best-test-debutant-since-1988-1780898431468">IND vs AFG: Suthar passes Ashwin to become India's best Test debutant since 1988</a>&nbsp;Brazil open their Group C campaign against Morocco on Jun 13 at MetLife Stadium. They will then face Haiti in Philadelphia on Jun 19 before concluding the group stage against Scotland in Miami on Jun 24.&nbsp;<h2>Brazil's updated 2026 FIFA World Cup squad</h2>Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson Moraes and Weverton&nbsp;Defenders: Alex Sandro, Bremer, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhees, Ibanez, Leo Pereira and Marquinhos Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo Santos, Fabinho, Lucas Paqueta and Ederson Forwards: Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Neymar Junior, Raphinha, Rayan and Vinicius Junior<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.&nbsp;All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).

Brazil open their Group C campaign against Morocco on Jun 13 at MetLife Stadium. They will then face Haiti in Philadelphia on Jun 19 before concluding the group stage against Scotland in Miami on Jun 24. 

Brazil’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dealt an early blow after defender Wesley was ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury. The loss has prompted head coach Carlo Ancelotti to bring in Ederson as a replacement ahead of the team’s opening fixture. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Sunday that Wesley suffered an adductor muscle injury in his left thigh during Brazil’s 2-1 friendly win over Egypt in Cleveland on Saturday. Medical scans carried out after the match confirmed the extent of the issue, forcing the AS Roma defender to withdraw ahead of Brazil’s opening Group C match. In a statement, the CBF expressed disappointment over the setback, noting that Wesley remains a valued member of the squad and will continue to be part of the team’s long-term plans as Brazil pursues a record-extending sixth World Cup crown. "The MRI scan revealed a muscle injury to the adductor muscle in his left thigh," the CBF said in an official statement, as per Reuters. "The CBF regrets the injury. Wesley is a player much loved by the squad and will always be considered part of this team as it seeks to win its sixth World Cup title." Also Read - Trump at MSG forces watch party shutdown — Penn Station stabbing adds to NYC's security concern His absence leaves Brazil without a specialist right-back among their 26 selected players, presenting a tactical challenge for Ancelotti. The coach is expected to turn to versatile defenders Danilo and Ibanez to provide cover in the position during the tournament. To replace Wesley, Brazil have called up Ederson, who is set to link up with the squad in the United States on Monday. Also Read - IND vs AFG: Suthar passes Ashwin to become India's best Test debutant since 1988 Brazil open their Group C campaign against Morocco on Jun 13 at MetLife Stadium. They will then face Haiti in Philadelphia on Jun 19 before concluding the group stage against Scotland in Miami on Jun 24. Brazil's updated 2026 FIFA World Cup squad Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson Moraes and Weverton Defenders: Alex Sandro, Bremer, Danilo, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhees, Ibanez, Leo Pereira and Marquinhos Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo Santos, Fabinho, Lucas Paqueta and Ederson Forwards: Endrick, Gabriel Martinelli, Igor Thiago, Luiz Henrique, Matheus Cunha, Neymar Junior, Raphinha, Rayan and Vinicius Junior How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (https://www.zee5.com/).

Brazil open their Group C campaign against Morocco on Jun 13 at MetLife Stadium. They will then face Haiti in Philadelphia on Jun 19 before concluding the group stage against Scotland in Miami on Jun 24.&nbsp;

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ederson replaces injured Wesley in Brazil squad

As part of enhanced security measures for President Donald Trump's attendance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday (Jun 8), the NYPD announced there would be no watch party outside Madison Square Garden. The decision made in coordination with the Secret Service which is responsible for Trump's safety. The Knicks also warned fans to bring as little as possible and arrive at least two hours before tipoff, with a strict no-bag policy and TSA-style screening in place. Then, less than 24 hours before Game 3, the area got even more tense with six people being stabbed inside Penn Station on Sunday (Jun 7) evening. The sprawling transit hub sits directly beneath Madison Square Garden and is often the venue of NY's biggest sporting moments.<h2>Why was the Knicks watch party canceled?</h2>The decision to deny the outdoor watch party, according to the NYPD, was done fully in coordination with the Secret Service because of the presidential visit.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cant-say-no-serena-williams-44-on-return-to-singles-ahead-of-doubles-comeback-1780894674652">'Can't say no': Serena, 44, on return to singles ahead of doubles comeback</a>After Game 2 on Friday (Jun 5), when the Knicks survived a dramatic 105-104 finish to take a 2-0 series lead, the scenes outside MSG turned chaotic. More than 6,500 people had gathered for the watch party, but 26 were ultimately taken into custody for the chaos which followed. One woman, 29-year-old Karely Reyes of Queens, was charged with assault, resisting arrest, and obstruction after allegedly punching an officer in the face.With Trump set to attend Game 3, the chaos could very well be the reason for the party to be called off.<h2>How does it affect the FIFA World Cup plans?</h2>The violence erupted as New York prepared for one of its biggest sports events in decades - the FIFA World Cup while the Monday's game will be the first NBA Finals match at MSG since 1999. New York is one of the key host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with matches at MetLife Stadium across the river in New Jersey drawing the largest global audience of any venue in the tournament. The Penn Station stabbing, the Game 2 disorder, and the extraordinary security apparatus required for a single presidential visit are all stress tests for a city that will need to manage far larger crowds, far more frequently, over the next three weeks. Authorities did not indicate whether the Penn Station stabbing would affect security plans for Game 3.

Trump's Game 3 visit scrapped NYC's MSG watch party. Game 2 saw 26 arrests. Hours before tip-off, six were stabbed at Penn Station, right below the arena. New York's World Cup readiness is now under the spotlight.

As part of enhanced security measures for President Donald Trump's attendance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday (Jun 8), the NYPD announced there would be no watch party outside Madison Square Garden. The decision made in coordination with the Secret Service which is responsible for Trump's safety. The Knicks also warned fans to bring as little as possible and arrive at least two hours before tipoff, with a strict no-bag policy and TSA-style screening in place. Then, less than 24 hours before Game 3, the area got even more tense with six people being stabbed inside Penn Station on Sunday (Jun 7) evening. The sprawling transit hub sits directly beneath Madison Square Garden and is often the venue of NY's biggest sporting moments. Why was the Knicks watch party canceled? The decision to deny the outdoor watch party, according to the NYPD, was done fully in coordination with the Secret Service because of the presidential visit. Also Read - 'Can't say no': Serena, 44, on return to singles ahead of doubles comeback After Game 2 on Friday (Jun 5), when the Knicks survived a dramatic 105-104 finish to take a 2-0 series lead, the scenes outside MSG turned chaotic. More than 6,500 people had gathered for the watch party, but 26 were ultimately taken into custody for the chaos which followed. One woman, 29-year-old Karely Reyes of Queens, was charged with assault, resisting arrest, and obstruction after allegedly punching an officer in the face. With Trump set to attend Game 3, the chaos could very well be the reason for the party to be called off. How does it affect the FIFA World Cup plans? The violence erupted as New York prepared for one of its biggest sports events in decades - the FIFA World Cup while the Monday's game will be the first NBA Finals match at MSG since 1999. New York is one of the key host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with matches at MetLife Stadium across the river in New Jersey drawing the largest global audience of any venue in the tournament. The Penn Station stabbing, the Game 2 disorder, and the extraordinary security apparatus required for a single presidential visit are all stress tests for a city that will need to manage far larger crowds, far more frequently, over the next three weeks. Authorities did not indicate whether the Penn Station stabbing would affect security plans for Game 3.

Trump's Game 3 visit scrapped NYC's MSG watch party. Game 2 saw 26 arrests. Hours before tip-off, six were stabbed at Penn Station, right below the arena. New York's World Cup readiness is now under the spotlight.

Trump at MSG forces watch party shutdown — Penn Station stabbing adds to NYC's security concern

Christian Eriksen was taken to the hospital after collapsing during Denmark’s international friendly against Ukraine on Sunday (June 7). The 34-year-old midfielder appeared to clutch his chest before falling to the turf, prompting an immediate response from medical staff. Players from both teams quickly formed a protective circle around Eriksen as treatment was administered on the pitch. The match was subsequently abandoned, with the Danish Football Association confirming that Eriksen was conscious and receiving medical care.&nbsp;A statement from the Danish FA read: “Christian Eriksen is conscious and feeling well under the circumstances. The match has been called off.” Supporters inside the stadium applauded and chanted Eriksen’s name as he was transported by ambulance. Denmark was leading 2-1 at the time of the incident. Patrick Dorgu and Joakim Mæhle scored for the hosts, while Viktor Tsygankov netted for Ukraine before halftime.&nbsp;The incident brings back memories of Euro 2020, when Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during Denmark’s match against Finland. He received life-saving CPR on the field and later had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) fitted before making a remarkable return to professional football eight months later. Further updates on Eriksen’s condition are expected from Danish football authorities and medical staff.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2026-final-alexander-zverev-beats-flavio-cobolli-to-clinch-first-grand-slam-title-1780853900294">French Open 2026 Final: Alexander Zverev beats Flavio Cobolli to clinch first Grand Slam title</a>&nbsp;Danish players were left in tears as medical staff rushed to revive Christian Eriksen after he suddenly collapsed near the touchline during Denmark's UEFA Euro 2020 match against Finland. The atmosphere at Copenhagen's Parken Stadium, which had been vibrant and energetic, fell silent when the then-Inter Milan midfielder collapsed near the end of the first half. His teammates immediately gathered around him, forming a protective circle while medical personnel administered emergency treatment, including the use of a defibrillator.&nbsp;After approximately 15 minutes of intensive medical attention, Eriksen was stretchered off the pitch. Both the Denmark and Finland teams subsequently left the field as fans anxiously awaited updates on his condition. The match later resumed at 12:00 am IST, with Finland securing a 1–0 victory over Denmark.&nbsp;Eriksen spent a week in hospital following the incident, during which he was fitted with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), a device designed to regulate potentially life-threatening heart rhythms. He was later discharged and returned home to Denmark to continue his recovery.

Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark's friendly against Ukraine, leading to the match being abandoned. The Danish FA confirmed he is conscious and receiving medical care

Christian Eriksen was taken to the hospital after collapsing during Denmark’s international friendly against Ukraine on Sunday (June 7). The 34-year-old midfielder appeared to clutch his chest before falling to the turf, prompting an immediate response from medical staff. Players from both teams quickly formed a protective circle around Eriksen as treatment was administered on the pitch. The match was subsequently abandoned, with the Danish Football Association confirming that Eriksen was conscious and receiving medical care. A statement from the Danish FA read: “Christian Eriksen is conscious and feeling well under the circumstances. The match has been called off.” Supporters inside the stadium applauded and chanted Eriksen’s name as he was transported by ambulance. Denmark was leading 2-1 at the time of the incident. Patrick Dorgu and Joakim Mæhle scored for the hosts, while Viktor Tsygankov netted for Ukraine before halftime. The incident brings back memories of Euro 2020, when Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest during Denmark’s match against Finland. He received life-saving CPR on the field and later had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) fitted before making a remarkable return to professional football eight months later. Further updates on Eriksen’s condition are expected from Danish football authorities and medical staff. Also Read: French Open 2026 Final: Alexander Zverev beats Flavio Cobolli to clinch first Grand Slam title Danish players were left in tears as medical staff rushed to revive Christian Eriksen after he suddenly collapsed near the touchline during Denmark's UEFA Euro 2020 match against Finland. The atmosphere at Copenhagen's Parken Stadium, which had been vibrant and energetic, fell silent when the then-Inter Milan midfielder collapsed near the end of the first half. His teammates immediately gathered around him, forming a protective circle while medical personnel administered emergency treatment, including the use of a defibrillator. After approximately 15 minutes of intensive medical attention, Eriksen was stretchered off the pitch. Both the Denmark and Finland teams subsequently left the field as fans anxiously awaited updates on his condition. The match later resumed at 12:00 am IST, with Finland securing a 1–0 victory over Denmark. Eriksen spent a week in hospital following the incident, during which he was fitted with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), a device designed to regulate potentially life-threatening heart rhythms. He was later discharged and returned home to Denmark to continue his recovery.

Christian Eriksen collapsed during Denmark's friendly against Ukraine. The match was abandoned, with the midfielder conscious in hospital

Christian Eriksen collapses during friendly game against Ukraine; match abandoned

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