Latest Football (Soccer) News

📅February 26, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Real Madrid faces Benfica without Mbappé due to knee injury; FIFA backs Mexico for World Cup amid cartel violence; MLS NEXT Pro partnership with OneFootball launches.
1

Real Madrid vs Benfica: Mbappé Doubtful with Knee Injury

Kylian Mbappé is unlikely to feature in Real Madrid's Champions League second-leg clash against Benfica after interrupting training due to a left knee issue that has troubled him since DecemberSource 1. The French striker has scored 38 goals this season but would need a 10-day recovery period if he plays, making his availability questionable for the crucial matchSource 1.

2

Vinicius Jr. Racial Abuse Controversy in Real Madrid-Benfica First Leg

Real Madrid's first leg against Benfica ended in a 1-0 victory but was marred when star player Vinicius Junior accused Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuseSource 1. UEFA subsequently issued a one-match ban to Prestianni due to the severity of the allegationsSource 1.

3

FIFA Expresses Confidence in Mexico Despite Cartel Violence

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated the organization has 'complete confidence' in Mexico to host World Cup matches despite recent violence following the killing of cartel leader El MenchoSource 2. Infantino emphasized regular contact with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and reassured that the tournament will proceed as scheduledSource 2.

4

Mexico's Jalisco State Under Emergency but World Cup Hosting Secure

Jalisco, including Guadalajara, has been under a state of emergency since Sunday following cartel-related violence, yet state Governor Pablo Lemus confirmed there is no danger of Mexico losing its World Cup host statusSource 2. Guadalajara is set to host four World Cup matches plus a qualifying playoff in the summer tournamentSource 2.

5

Canada Positioned as Safest World Cup 2026 Destination

Canada is emerging as the most accessible and stable destination for FIFA World Cup 2026 fans amid travel restrictions in the United States and security concerns in MexicoSource 4. The country's streamlined visa system and Electronic Travel Authorization process offer a safer alternative for international visitorsSource 4.

6

US Travel Bans Complicate 2026 World Cup Attendance

The United States has implemented full and partial entry bans on travelers from dozens of countries due to security concerns and visa overstay issues, potentially hindering fan access to matchesSource 4. These restrictions create logistical challenges for the tri-nation tournament co-hosted with Mexico and CanadaSource 4.

7

Mexico Friendly Against Iceland Proceeds as Scheduled

Mexico's international friendly match against Iceland in Querétaro is confirmed to proceed on schedule despite the recent security situation in the countrySource 2. The match represents a test of Mexico's ability to host sporting events safely during the current period of unrestSource 2.

8

OneFootball Becomes Official Streaming Home for MLS NEXT Pro 2026

MLS NEXT Pro announced a global partnership with OneFootball to stream all matches free-to-air starting February 27, reaching 200 million active monthly users worldwideSource 3. The platform will broadcast the regular season, playoffs, and MLS NEXT Pro Cup across multiple channels including app, web, and connected TVSource 3.

9

MLS NEXT Pro Fifth Season Kicks Off with New Digital Strategy

MLS NEXT Pro's fifth season begins with enhanced digital storytelling and accessibility through the OneFootball partnership, continuing an expansion strategy that builds on the league's relationship with OneFootball established in October 2024Source 3. Revolution II opens their season on March 1 against Atlanta United 2Source 3.

10

OneFootball Strengthens Commitment to North American Soccer Growth

The strategic partnership between MLS NEXT Pro and OneFootball demonstrates the platform's commitment to growing soccer in the United States and internationally through innovative digital distributionSource 3. OneFootball now partners with over 200 clubs, leagues, federations, and players globallySource 3.