Latest Football (Soccer) News

📅February 5, 2026 at 1:00 PM
2026 World Cup ticket allocations revealed today amid massive demand; Italy's cricket team debuts at T20 World Cup while soccer struggles; various friendlies and FIFA updates dominate headlines.
1

FIFA Reveals 2026 World Cup Ticket Allocation Results Today

Fans learn today, February 5, if their ticket requests for the 2026 World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico were successful, following 500 million applications from 211 countries.Source 1 Highest demand for Colombia vs Portugal, Mexico opener vs South Africa, and the New York final. Tournament starts June 11 in Mexico City, ends July 19.Source 1

2

England's Group Stage Schedule Confirmed for 2026 World Cup

England begins against Croatia on June 17 in Texas under Thomas Tuchel, then Ghana on June 23 in Massachusetts, and Panama on June 27 in New Jersey.Source 1 Group stage ends June 28, round of 32 follows. Hype builds post-group announcements in December.Source 1

3

Wales in Talks for Friendly with Ghana, England's World Cup Foes

Wales is negotiating a Cardiff friendly with Ghana, who face England in the 2026 World Cup group stage.Source 1 This match could serve as preparation amid World Cup countdown. Details on date and confirmation pending.Source 1

4

FIFA President Infantino Favors Lifting Russia's World Cup Ban

Gianni Infantino supports ending FIFA's ban on Russia for international competitions, including potential 2026 World Cup participation.Source 1 This stance comes amid ongoing geopolitical discussions. No final decision announced yet.Source 1

5

Pochettino Criticizes 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices, Denies USMNT Link

Mauricio Pochettino states high World Cup ticket prices are unrelated to USMNT issues.Source 1 Fans face steep costs for the hottest tickets after massive demand. Allocation results out today.Source 1

6

Mexico to Host World Cup Opener: Mexico vs South Africa at Azteca

The 48-team 2026 World Cup kicks off June 11 with Mexico vs South Africa at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, echoing 2010 opener.Source 1 High demand for this and Mexico vs South Korea in Guadalajara.Source 1 Just 126 days until tournament start.Source 1

7

Italy's Cricket Team Makes Historic T20 World Cup Debut

Italy qualifies for T20 Cricket World Cup starting Saturday, finishing second in European qualifiers behind Netherlands.Source 2 Recent first win over full ICC member Ireland; contrasts soccer team's failures.Source 2 Azzurri cricketers face powerhouses like England, India.Source 2

8

Italy Soccer Misses 2026 World Cup Berth Again, Eyes Playoffs

Four-time soccer World Cup winners Italy failed to qualify directly for 2026 tournament, now in playoffs.Source 2 Amid soccer turmoil, cricket rise offers national boost. Bureaucratic issues hinder soccer federation.Source 2

9

Italy Cricket Eyes Growth via Schools and T20 Premier League

Italian cricket federation plans school programs and potential European T20 franchise in 2027 to build next generation.Source 2 Bruno Malaspina sees opportunity from soccer woes. Facing England is pinnacle despite gap.Source 2

10

Orijent 1919 Rijeka vs SKU Amstetten Friendly Odds Released

Club friendly between Orijent 1919 Rijeka and SKU Amstetten scheduled for today, February 5, with betting odds now available.Source 3 Match kicks off at 10:00 AM; no scores or lineups detailed yet.Source 3 Part of international club friendlies slate.Source 3