Latest Football (Soccer) News

đź“…January 24, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Real Salt Lake wins preseason friendly; Germany mulls 2026 World Cup boycott amid limited UEFA slots; MLS stars shine in Atlantic Cup.
1

Real Salt Lake Defeats Brøndby IF 2-1 in Atlantic Cup Opener

In their 2026 preseason debut, Real Salt Lake beat Danish SuperLiga side Brøndby IF 2-1 in Faro, Portugal. Dominik Marczuk scored in the 32nd minute, assisted by Noel Caliskan and Diego Luna, with Tyler Wolff adding a second early in the second half. Brøndby pulled one back via Ousseynou Seck, but a late RSL goal was disallowed.Source 1

2

Diego Luna Highlighted as RSL's Key Playmaker Post-Victory

USA star Diego Luna set up the opener and earned 2025 RSL Golden Boot with 10 goals and 7 assists. He was also named to Concacaf Gold Cup Best XI and led the 2025 U.S. team in games, minutes, and assists under Mauricio Pochettino. Luna is a World Cup hopeful.Source 1

3

RSL's Pablo Cabral Named 2025 Most Valuable Player by Teammates

Following the win, Real Salt Lake announced Pablo Cabral as the 2025 MVP voted by teammates. This comes amid a strong preseason schedule including the Atlantic Cup. The team made wholesale changes at halftime in the Brøndby match.Source 1

4

DFB Vice President Floats Idea of UEFA-Only Tournament Over World Cup Boycott

Germany's DFB vice president suggested a separate tournament for UEFA teams excluded from the 2026 World Cup. This raises speculation about a potential German boycott due to expanded slots favoring other confederations. The proposal highlights tensions in World Cup qualification.Source 2

5

Could Germany Boycott the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Discussions are swirling about Germany potentially boycotting the 2026 World Cup, prompted by DFB comments on alternative UEFA competitions. Limited spots for European teams in the expanded tournament fuel the debate. No official decision has been made.Source 2

6

Real Salt Lake Prepares for Next Atlantic Cup Match Against Randers FC

RSL's Head Coach Pablo Mastroeni's side faces Randers FC on January 22 in the Atlantic Cup, a club linked to former RSL striker Yura Movsisyan. They play three games over 13 days in the tournament. Brøndby, their latest opponent, connects to David Blitzer's holdings.Source 1

7

RSL Eyes Busy Preseason with Southern California Fixtures

After the Atlantic Cup, Real Salt Lake returns to Utah before games against Orange County SC on February 7 and MLS Cup 2024 champions LA Galaxy on February 13. The latter is outside Palm Springs, California. This wraps their 22nd preseason.Source 1

8

Jesus Barea's Goal Disallowed in Controversial RSL Decision

Second-year player Jesus Barea had a third goal ruled out for Real Salt Lake due to an offside call on Pablo Ruiz. This occurred after Brøndby's response in the 52nd minute. The win secures a strong start to preseason.Source 1

9

Tyler Wolff Scores Early Second-Half Goal for RSL Triumph

Midfielder Tyler Wolff doubled Real Salt Lake's lead in the 47th minute against Brøndby IF following halftime changes. This goal proved crucial in holding off the Danish side's comeback. RSL dominated both halves.Source 1

10

Dominik Marczuk Opens 2026 Account in RSL Preseason Win

Polish international winger Dominik Marczuk scored RSL's first goal in the 32nd minute, assisted by Noel Caliskan and Diego Luna. It marked his 2026 account opener in the Atlantic Cup. The team showed strong attacking play.Source 1