2026 World Cup Predictions: Group Analysis and Must-See Matches Revealed
December 6, 2025 04:00Explore the breakdown of each group at the 2026 World Cup with top matches to watch and key predictions by ESPN's writers.
Explore the breakdown of each group at the 2026 World Cup with top matches to watch and key predictions by ESPN's writers.
Kevin Muscat, once dubbed 'the most hated man in football,' celebrates another coaching success with Shanghai Port, fueling speculation of a move to Europe as one of Australia's most successful coaches.
Australian footballers Jason Geria and Mitchell Duke are exploring short-term moves due to the J.League's revised schedule, affecting their World Cup preparations and potential club destinations.
Orlando City reportedly aimed to sign Richarlison from Tottenham in a €40 million deal, envisioning him as a key player ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Exciting young talents to keep an eye on during the U20 World Cup in Chile, including Mora, Cremaschi, Liso, and Diego León. Key players and their strengths across different national teams.
The U.S. men's national team secures a significant win against Japan, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face uncertainty about their World Cup futures.
Alejandro Zendejas' standout performance in the USMNT's win over Japan boosts optimism and World Cup roster hopes. Zendejas and Balogun impress in Mauricio Pochettino's rejuvenated squad.
Christian Pulisic shines as the USMNT bounces back with a 2-0 victory over Japan in a friendly at Columbus, Ohio's Lower.com Field following their loss to South Korea.
Get a detailed breakdown of the United States vs. Japan International Friendly match on September 9, 2025, including key highlights and expert insights from ESPN.
Follow live updates of the United States vs. Japan International Friendly match on ESPN, with real-time scores, highlights, and player statistics.
Explore 13 defining moments of Alex Morgan's legendary career, from her first international goal to winning two World Cups and more.
The United States men's national team faced defensive challenges and managerial decisions in a 2-0 defeat to South Korea. Mauricio Pochettino's tactics and player performances analyzed.
The USMNT roster for upcoming friendlies includes Christian Pulisic's return but excludes Weston McKennie, Giovanni Reyna, and Matt Turner among others, for matches against South Korea and Japan.
Liverpool's manager Arne Slot confirmed that Luis Díaz missed a friendly match with AC Milan amid transfer rumors linking him to Bayern Munich.
Barcelona President Joan Laporta confirms the club's satisfaction with summer transfers, hinting at no more signings after Marcus Rashford's arrival from Manchester United.
Iran clinches the last spot in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup after a 2-1 victory over Jordan, joining other qualified nations for the tournament hosted by Australia.
Swiss coach Rene Weiler replaces Troy Lesesne as head coach of D.C. United, bringing experience from managing clubs in Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.
Kōta Takai, at just 20 years old, has made a remarkable journey from professional debut to signing with Tottenham in three years. Learn about his rise, skills, challenges, and future prospects.
Tottenham Hotspur completes the signing of Japan defender Kota Takai from J-League's Kawasaki Frontale in a £5 million deal. Takai, 20, joins on a five-year contract under new manager Thomas Frank.
Arsenal announces the expiration of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu's contract, ending his four-year tenure with the club. Tomiyasu made 84 appearances for Arsenal during his time in north London.
Arsenal announces the termination of defender Takehiro Tomiyasu's contract after the Japan international's injury-hit four-year spell, with 84 appearances.
Learn how Tony Popovic steered the Socceroos to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup after a rocky start in the latest qualification round.
The recent Club World Cup demonstrates competitive games, diminishing gap between Europe and the world, and potential for growth, proving the concept's viability.
LAFC leads Club World Cup with 17 different nationalities in their squad, while River Plate and Urawa Red Diamonds have the least diverse teams with only 4 nationalities represented.
Japanese government implements new regulations to restrict 'kirakira' names, preventing parents from giving unconventional names based on kanji characters, citing administrative and bullying concerns.
President Trump postpones threat of 50% import tariff on EU goods after phone conversation with EU President Von der Leyen, extending negotiation deadline to July 9.
Israeli's express safety concerns as Western leaders falsely accuse them of genocide, leading to increased hatred and security threats worldwide.
North Korea's new torpedo boat destroyer launch ends in disaster as the vessel slides off the ramp, causing severe damage, witnessed by leader Kim Jong-un.
Two orcas and twelve dolphins are trapped in a closed dolphinarium in Antibes, France, facing dire conditions after Marineland's closure.
Cristiano Ronaldo's eldest son, Cristiano Ronaldo Júnior, made his first start for Portugal U15s in a 1-1 draw against Greece, showcasing promising talent at 14 years old.