issf junior world cup

Portugal made a formal approach to Bournemouth teenager Eli Junior Kroupi before the 2026 World Cup, but the striker rejected the chance to switch nations. Roberto Martinez confirmed Portugal respected his decision to stay with France. Kroupi, who was also eligible for Ivory Coast, continues to grow in importance after a strong Premier League season with Bournemouth.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Neymar’s place in the nation’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, ending months of uncertainty surrounding the superstar forward’s international future. Neymar had not played for Brazil since 2023 because of serious knee and hamstring injuries, but improved fitness and strong performances for Santos convinced Ancelotti to bring him back.

Tensions between coaches and Hockey India (HI) are not new, but on Wednesday former India captain PR Sreejesh publicly criticised the federation over the treatment of Indian coaches after being overlooked for the junior men’s team chief coach role.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup squad picture is beginning to take shape as nations across every group unveil preliminary and final rosters ahead of the expanded tournament in North America. From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo potentially making history to major omissions, emerging talents and final roster deadlines, national teams are entering the decisive phase of preparation before football’s biggest global spectacle officially begins.

Hockey legend PR Sreejesh expressed shock after his abrupt removal as junior men's coach, despite leading the team to five podium finishes in five tournaments, including a World Cup bronze. He revealed Hockey India's preference for foreign coaches, citing the senior team's chief coach's recommendation, questioning the development of Indian talent.

Hockey legend PR Sreejesh publicly challenged Hockey India's decision not to renew his junior coaching contract, questioning the federation's development program and its heavy reliance on foreign coaches. He expressed concern over the perceived demotion from chief coach to goalkeeper coach, sparking a high-profile dispute over opportunities for Indian coaching talent.

Justin Bieber has emerged as one of the biggest surprise cameo predictions for the FIFA World Cup 2026 halftime show featuring Shakira, BTS, and Madonna. Early entertainment odds sparked massive fan excitement online, with Burna Boy, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chris Martin also linked to possible appearances during FIFA’s first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime spectacle at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

Some shine is off the world’s greatest sporting spectacle. US advertisers have made football a game of 4 quarters. Tickets are too pricey. Trump’s immigration goons may target fans. India doesn’t have a broadcast deal as yet. What more can go wrong?

Just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin, Brazilian star player Neymar has found himself with a brutal injury, which he sustained on Sunday's 3-0 defeat to Coritiba, sparking major chaos among fans as many doubt if he will be able to play in the World Cup. While medical teams are constantly monitoring his situation, the timing of his injury has raised eyebrows.

Portugal have officially announced their final squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the biggest talking point is the inclusion of legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo. At 41 years old, Ronaldo is preparing for what is expected to be his sixth and final World Cup appearance. The squad was confirmed by manager Roberto Martinez as Portugal aim to win football’s biggest prize for the first time in history.

FIFA’s expanded 2026 World Cup could arrive in India without any official broadcaster despite YouTube becoming part of the tournament’s global streaming strategy for the first time. With rights negotiations collapsing, Prasar Bharati distancing itself from responsibility, and geo-restrictions limiting overseas streams, Indian fans increasingly face the prospect of relying on VPNs, piracy sites or unofficial watch parties to follow football’s biggest event.

Hockey India clarified that legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh's tenure as junior men's coach concluded as per contract, denying claims of him being "fired." The federation stated his position was advertised and a new coach selected on merit. An alternative development role was offered but declined. Hockey India emphasised its commitment to developing Indian coaches.

Thomas Tuchel will unveil his first major tournament squad as England national football team manager on Friday, naming a 26-man group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026. Despite a flawless qualifying campaign, surprise omissions including Harry Maguire, and uncertainty over Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, underline Tuchel’s ruthless approach as England chase their first world title since 1966.

Neymar became emotional after Carlo Ancelotti included him in Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad despite recent fitness concerns. The Santos star broke down in tears while celebrating with family and told his father, “We did it, Dad.” Neymar also called teammate Raphinha, saying, “We are gonna win this.” The 34-year-old now prepares for his fourth World Cup appearance as Brazil chase another historic title.

Neymar broke down in tears through the night after learning he had made Brazil's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking at an event in Sao Paulo, the 34-year-old Santos forward described watching videos and crying until sunrise while his family slept beside him. However, a calf edema suffered during Santos' defeat to Coritiba has raised doubts over his availability for Brazil's pre-tournament friendlies, with the training camp beginning May 27 and a farewell game against Panama scheduled for May 31.

Michael Olise has sparked debate among football fans after choosing Bruno Fernandes ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo as Portugal’s best current player. The Bayern Munich winger made the comments during a light-hearted social media segment ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Olise overlooked Ronaldo for Portugal, he had no hesitation in naming Lionel Messi as Argentina’s top player.

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has suffered a huge setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 23-year-old fractured the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during FC Barcelona’s 3-1 La Liga win over Real Betis on Sunday, May 17. The injury forced him off at half-time at Spotify Camp Nou and it immediately raised fears over his fitness for the tournament.