Football Headlines

2026 World Cup playoff preview, predictions: Who will advance? 2026 World Cup playoff preview, predictions: Who will advance?

The Republic of Ireland left it late to qualify for the playoffs where, this week, the final six spots at the 2026 World Cup -- four from Europe, two from the intercontinental playoff -- will be clinched. Here's what to watch for.

Man City's Rodri doesn't rule out Real Madrid move: 'I'd like to return' to LaLiga Man City's Rodri doesn't rule out Real Madrid move: 'I'd like to return' to LaLiga

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has refused to rule out a future move to Real Madrid, despite his past as an Atletico Madrid player.

Jamie Carragher backs Mohamed Salah for big European move, not Saudi Arabia Jamie Carragher backs Mohamed Salah for big European move, not Saudi Arabia

Jamie Carragher has tipped Mohamed Salah to defy Saudi Arabian mega-bucks in order to extend his high-profile playing career at one of Europe's top clubs.

Gareth Barry: No asterisk should be next to James Milner's Premier League record Gareth Barry: No asterisk should be next to James Milner's Premier League record

Gareth Barry is upset he is no longer the answer to a quiz question, but joked that James Milner does not need an asterisk next to his Premier League record.

All eyes on DR Congo with World Cup spot on the line, while Nigeria and Senegal start anew All eyes on DR Congo with World Cup spot on the line, while Nigeria and Senegal start anew

Rarely has an international break largely devoid of competitive fixtures felt so loaded for Africa's national sides, with the continent still reeling in the aftermath of a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations.

South Africa vs Panama - Bafana trial new-look team as FIFA World Cup looms closer South Africa vs Panama - Bafana trial new-look team as FIFA World Cup looms closer

South Africa will host Panama on Friday in Durban -- the first of two friendlies over the course of the international break -- before facing them again in Cape Town next Tuesday.