Latest Football (Soccer) News
Italy Miss Third Straight World Cup After Playoff Loss to Bosnia
Four-time champions Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, losing 1-1 (4-1 on penalties) to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoff final in Zenica. This marks their third consecutive absence, following misses in 2018 and 2022, with misses by Francesco Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante proving decisive.
Italy finished second in their group behind Norway and hadn't won a knockout game since 2006.
Sweden Edge Poland 3-2 with Late Gyokeres Goal to Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Viktor Gyokeres scored two minutes from time as Sweden beat Poland 3-2 in a frantic qualifier to secure their World Cup spot. The victory books Sweden's ticket to the tournament co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico.
This comes amid final European berths being decided on March 31.
Bosnia and Herzegovina Defeat Italy to Advance as Canada's First 2026 World Cup Opponent
Bosnia won 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Italy, securing qualification and setting them as Canada's Group opponent on June 12 in Toronto. The match fallout highlights Italy's ongoing qualification drought.
Bosnia scored all penalties while Italy missed two.
Canada Premier League to Trial Arsene Wenger's 'Daylight' Offside Rule
The CPL starts a pilot on April 4 for FIFA-backed 'daylight' rule, ruling attackers onside unless a clear gap exists behind the second-last defender. Championed by Wenger, it aims to boost attacking play and reduce VAR disputes.
FIFA will evaluate for potential global adoption, including the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA's Infantino Insists Iran Will Play in 2026 World Cup Despite US Tensions
FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran will participate with no Plan B, emphasizing unity amid geopolitical issues with co-host USA. Iran qualified early but faces safety concerns from US President Trump; matches may shift to Mexico.
Infantino stressed Iran's sporting merit and FIFA's role in bridging divisions.
Final 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Decide Key Group Opponents on Super Tuesday
March 31 saw decisive playoffs: Congo vs Jamaica for Group K, Iraq vs Bolivia for Group I, plus European ties like Czech vs Denmark and Kosovo vs Turkey. Winners impact groups with teams like Colombia, Portugal, France, and Norway.
Bosnia's win over Italy sets them against Canada.
Tottenham Hotspur Negotiate with Roberto De Zerbi Amid Relegation Battle
Relegation-threatened Tottenham are in talks with Roberto De Zerbi to become manager with seven Premier League games left. The club faces a fight to avoid drop as season nears end.
This amid broader sport headlines on April 1.
2026 World Cup Ticket Sales Open April 1 with Over 102,000 Minutes to Kickoff
Last-minute ticket sales for the USA-Canada-Mexico tournament begin April 1, with kickoff on June 11. Complaints over high pricing filed with EU regulators.
Vancouver prep continues, including sponsor concerns and FIFA events.
Ireland Calls Up Kansas City Current's Kyra Carusa for Women's World Cup Qualifiers
Forward Kyra Carusa, on loan to Kansas City Current, joins Ireland for April matches vs Poland in Gdańsk and Dublin. She has 30+ caps and 10 goals, named Ireland's top women's player in 2025.
Games are April 15 and 18 for 2027 Women's World Cup qualifying.
FIFA Trophy Tour and Congress Gear Up for 2026 World Cup in Canada
Canada Celebrates tour launches April 1 in Victoria; trophy tour hits Vancouver April 10-11; FIFA Congress in Vancouver April 30. Events include mascot appearances and watch parties for qualifiers.
Science World hosts soccer-tech exhibit May 15-Sept 7.
European Playoffs Conclude: Kosovo vs Turkey Winner Faces Australia in Vancouver
Final European qualifiers on March 31 include Kosovo vs Turkey, whose winner plays Australia on June 13 in Vancouver. Other ties: Czech Republic vs Denmark, Sweden vs Poland (Sweden advanced).
These shape 2026 groups.