Nepal's AFC Bids Hang on FIFA Suspension Lift

Kathmandu, July 2 – The Asian Football Confederation has notified the All Nepal Football Association that Nepal's national and club teams can participate in regional tournaments provided FIFA lifts its ban prior to the respective competition deadlines.

An official letter dated June 27 from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), released by ANFA on Tuesday, indicates that Nepal missed out on qualifying for the AFC Women's Champions League 2026/27.

However, Nepal would still have been excluded from the competition even if FIFA hadn't suspended ANFA. The Martyr's Memorial ANFA Women's League was delayed on the first day, and without a champion, Nepal wouldn’t have had a team to compete in the AFC Women’s Champions League Qualifying Round unless the AFC made exceptions.

Nevertheless, Nepal still has the chance to dispatch its squads for two competitions—the 2027 AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers and the 2027 AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers.

According to a letter authored by Datuk Seri Windsor John, the general secretary of the AFC, and addressed to Kiran Rai, the general secretary of ANFA, Nepal will be eligible to compete in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers provided that FIFA lifts its suspension by July 13, which falls three days prior to the draw for the Preliminary Stage scheduled on July 16.

In addition, Nepal has the opportunity to participate in the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers provided the ban is lifted by August 1, which is 30 days prior to the qualifiers.

Nepal had previously entered submissions for the AFC tournaments prior to FIFA's ban on June 24.

"If the ban imposed on ANFA is not revoked by the specified deadlines, its representatives and club teams will be excluded from the respective tournaments," stated the AFC in its latest correspondence.

The ANFA has faced an indefinite suspension due to ongoing external intervention by government officials. This suspension will be revoked once two requirements are fulfilled.

FIFA's initial condition requires the complete cancellation of the National Sports Council's ruling from March 25, which involved the suspension of ANFA and instructions to revise the Statutes, with no exceptions and the return of the present ANFA Executive Committee.

The second requirement involves enabling ANFA to complete, at the earliest opportunity and in line with its statutes and rules, the election procedure that has already been started.

Chukwueze Aims for Milan Comeback Under Amorim

AC Milan Wing player Samuel Chukwueze is expected to stay with the Italian team and compete for his position under new coach Ruben Amorim, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Chukwueze found himself at the center of discussions between Milan and Trabzonspor, yet the Nigerian player showed no interest in relocating, with the Rossoneri also turning down a €15 million offer from the Turkish team.

The forward has come back to Milan following a temporary stint at Fulham, as the Premier League club decided not to exercise the €26 million buy-out clause outlined in the contract.

While playing for Fulham, Chukwueze netted three goals and delivered four assists across 23 league matches, establishing a solid connection with Nigerian teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.

Even though he preferred staying in England, Fulham chose not to finalize the transfer, forcing the 26-year-old back to Milan, where he still has two more years left on his five-year deal signed when he moved from Villarreal in 2023 for €20 million.

As per Sempre Milan, Trabzonspor continue to show interest in acquiring the Super Eagles' winger even after their initial offer was turned down.

"Although there is a deadlock, the Turkish team continues to pursue Chukwueze, viewing him as one of their key targets for the upcoming season," the report stated.

Amorim needs to determine if he believes the player has a role going forward this season. It appears the Portuguese manager wants to put him through his paces on the field and monitor his performance closely during the pre-season training in July.

From the athlete's point of view, the core concept remains identical: Chukwueze aims to compete for a position, possibly playing a supporting role behind the forward.

Prior to his temporary transfer, Chukwueze found it difficult to secure a consistent starting position at Milan, even though he occasionally displayed his talent.

Although Amorim's intentions regarding the winger are still uncertain, a positive preseason might reignite his career at Milan, whereas a transfer elsewhere could offer him a new beginning as Nigeria prepares for its next set of international fixtures.

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Diomande Joins Oliseh in World Cup Lore

Ivory Coast Young star Yan Diomande has made his mark on African soccer history during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, entering an elite group once led by Nigerian icon Sunday Oliseh, as he became just the second African male player to feature in four World Cup games before reaching adulthood.

A 19-year-old winger for RB Leipzig reached this achievement even as Ivory Coast faced a disappointing end to the competition, after Erling Haaland scored an incredible last-minute goal to secure Norway a 2-1 win in the Round of 32—marking the conclusion of the Elephants' most successful World Cup run in the elimination phase.

Another African player to achieve this milestone was Oliseh, who featured in all four games for the Super Eagles during the 1994 World Cup held in the U.S. At just 19 years old, he emerged as one of the standout youthful midfielders of the competition, as Nigeria marked their significant entry onto the international football scene.

Oliseh was an essential part of that legendary Super Eagles team, playing as a defensive midfielder and almost never skipping a single minute during the four games.

He recorded more than five tackles and nine ball possessions each match, passed with an accuracy exceeding 80 percent, and was instrumental in setting Nigeria's pace during a tournament that concluded with a penalty shootout loss against Italy in the Round of 16.

His appearances during the competition, which took place prior to his 20th year, introduced him to the global stage and set the groundwork for an accomplished professional journey throughout Europe.

After more than three decades, Diomande has become part of this elite group — although his departure was just as difficult for the African champions.

Côte d'Ivoire, entering the elimination rounds with high confidence following a strong performance in the group phase, held their own against Norway for much of their Round of 32 clash, ending the game with 14 shots compared to Norway's nine and earning 14 set pieces. Diomande, who impressed during the group stage with his bold ball control and composure well beyond his age, showed moments of brilliance throughout the match—such as a promising pass that led to one of Côte d'Ivoire's best chances in the first half—but Norway's solid defense restricted his influence.

Norway took the lead when Antonio Nusa scored, but Manchester United forward Amad Diallo shifted the momentum shortly afterward. Coming on as a substitute, he maneuvered past multiple defenders and netted an extraordinary equalizer that quickly became a contender for the best goal of the competition. This goal also placed Diallo among an elite group, becoming just the third African player to score twice as a sub in a single World Cup, following Cameroon's Roger Milla and Senegal's Pape Gueye.

Nevertheless, the festivities didn't last long. Just moments after Ivory Coast equalized, Haaland once more proved why he is considered among the most lethal strikers globally, reaching the far post to score from Patrick Berg's low pass and secure a 2-1 triumph. This outcome secured Norway's first World Cup knockout stage win since 1998 and set up a Round of 16 clash with Brazil.

Although the loss ended Ivory Coast's journey, Diomande's reputation has greatly improved through this experience. The young player scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 33 Bundesliga matches with RB Leipzig during the previous season, aiding their qualification for the UEFA Champions League, and has drawn interest from some of Europe's top teams.

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Nwankwo Joins Commonwealth Games Team as Others Withdraw

The young Nigerian sprinter, Rosemary Nwankwo, has received an invitation to join the national Commonwealth Games training session in Abuja after several athletes had to withdraw from the track team.

The announcement of Nwankwo's invitation was made on Wednesday by her institution, Nigerian Tulip International College, along with her athletics group, N-Youth Sports Academy.

She wasn't part of the original 29-athletes list announced by the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, but her inclusion seems to have occurred after the departures of U.S.-based sprinter Tima Godbless and Ella Onojuvwevwo.

Nevertheless, the young athlete might not be able to attend the camp right away as she is scheduled to participate in the CAA African U-18 and U-20 Championships in Dakar, Senegal, between July 4 and 5.

Although she is still attending school, Nwankwo has had a remarkable season. She took part in all three stages of the MTN Champs and contributed to Nigeria's success in qualifying for the World Championships in the women’s 4x100m relay at the World Relays held in Gaborone, Botswana.

She participated in the African Championships prior to fighting for a spot in Nigeria's Commonwealth Games team during the National Trials in June.

After accepting the invitation, she is set to be part of the group including fellow runners Blessing Ogundiran, Rosemary Chukwuma, Miracle Ezechukwu, Olayinka Olajide, and Obi Chukwuka at the training facility.

An athlete from the N-Youth Sports Academy achieved personal bests this season with times of 11.42 seconds in the 100 meters and 23.19 seconds in the 200 meters.

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Australia Faces Salah Test in Egypt Clash

Australia Left-back Jordan Bos claims the Socceroos are prepared to handle the danger presented by Mohamed Salah as they face Egypt in their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match on Friday.

Mohamed Salah is still uncertain for the elimination match following a hamstring injury sustained during Egypt's 1-1 draw against Iran last week. The Liverpool player skipped Monday's practice session as he continues his recovery, yet Boss stated that Australia won't feel threatened regardless of whether the Egyptian star plays or not.

Perhaps away from the field there is some respect, but on the field there isn't," Bos stated. "It's survival of the fittest. That's how everyone will approach the game, and that's how I'll enter it.

Mo Salah is an elite athlete. He has remained among the best for quite some time. We will certainly need to consider ways to neutralize him and Egypt. We've already started working on this, and now it's about making small adjustments and understanding what the coach and team plan to do to assist us.

Australia secured their spot in the elimination rounds following a scoreless match against Paraguay, coming off an initial 2-0 win against Turkey, maintaining two shutouts throughout the competition.

Mohamed Salah played a key role in Egypt's remarkable journey to reach the World Cup elimination rounds for the first time ever. The 34-year-old player has contributed directly to three of the Pharaohs' five goals, with one goal scored and two assists provided.

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Algeria Coach Confident Ahead of Swiss Challenge

Algeria Coach Vladimir Petkovic feels his team is building a victorious mindset just when it matters most as the Desert Foxes get ready to play against Switzerland in their Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

North African teams advanced to the elimination rounds following a victory and a draw in their last two group games, coming off an underwhelming 3-0 loss to reigning champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi.

Following that defeat, Algeria has made an impression through their offensive efforts and determination, though Petkovic acknowledged his team needs to enhance their defense after enduring tense situations during their thrilling win against Austria.

The trainer believes his team is steadily improving as they strive to advance to the round of sixteen.

"We're developing a victorious mindset, bit by bit," Petkovic stated through CAF Online.

In big competitions, it's crucial to focus on progressing with each match, and that's exactly our approach.

Algeria will be appearing in their fifth FIFA World Cup, with their highest achievement occurring during the 2014 event held in Brazil, when they advanced to the Round of 16 but were defeated by champion Germany following a match decided through extra time.

The team known as the Desert Foxes did not manage to qualify for the 2018 World Cup held in Russia and the 2022 edition hosted in Qatar. They now aim to achieve better success during the upcoming tournament taking place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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Top Scorers of 2026 So Far: Kane Leads the Pack

Big names from Real Madrid , Barcelona , Arsenal and Bayern Munich appear along with some unexpected names among the top scorers of this calendar year.

Several well-known players are notably missing from the list of top scorers in 2026 so far.

Based on players from Europe's five main leagues, these are the leading scorers in 2026, both at the club level and internationally.

10. Donyell Malen – 15 goals scored

Following an average period at Aston Villa, the Dutch striker showed remarkable performance during his half-season loan spell at Roma.

He has netted 15 goals in only 20 games with the Giallorossi and has subsequently made a lasting transfer to the Stadio Olimpico.

Unfortunately, he hasn’t quite carried that form onto the international stage. He’s failed to score in his last seven appearances for the Netherlands and wasn’t even brought off the bench for their last game of the World Cup before their early exit.

9. Lamine Yamal - 16 goals scored

Yamal has consistently been mentioned as a strong candidate for the Ballon d'Or, and gradually, he is producing the statistics to support this claim.

The young athlete's ability to score goals has improved each year, with the 2025-26 campaign being another example. A hat-trick in February versus Villarreal showed a player poised for extraordinary success.

Regrettably, the last stretch of the campaign was affected by a hamstring injury, otherwise we believe he might have climbed several positions in this ranking. He only required 10 minutes in his debut World Cup appearance to score. Exceptional talent.

READ: Seven top actors who could leverage the 2026 World Cup to claim this year's Ballon d'Or

8. Erling Haaland – 18 goals scored

Hello Erling. We had anticipated your arrival.

Haaland scored four times against Iraq and Senegal, which helped him move into the top 10, and later increased his World Cup total with a performance against the Ivory Coast.

We anticipate witnessing him move higher up into the top five over the next few weeks and months, yet following a comparatively subdued — according to his usual pace — latter part of the season with Manchester City, his name had not been mentioned until now.

7. Mikel Oyarzabal – 19 goals scored

Among the top-scoring players at present, he remains relatively low-key.

The forward notoriously didn't manage to touch the ball during his first 30 minutes of World Cup play this summer, but he has moved past that sluggish beginning.

The player who provided La Roja's winning goal against England in the Euro 2024 championship game is currently at the peak of his performance. He found the net during Real Sociedad's triumph in the Copa del Rey final against Atletico Madrid, and his season has the potential to become even more successful.

He has scored four goals in the World Cup so far and remains a strong contender for the Golden Boot award, despite competing against several top stars.

6. Kylian Mbappé – 20 goals

Similar to his competitor Haaland, it somehow took Mbappé until mid-June to reach the top 10.

Messi began the year in impressive fashion, finding the net in six consecutive matches for Barcelona (a total of nine goals) before experiencing a significant drop, managing only one goal in his following seven games.

Due to his six goals scored against Senegal, Iraq, and Sweden, we don't anticipate seeing the Real Madrid star retreating from the front line.

5. Ousmane Dembélé – 20 goals

Dembele has netted 16 goals in his first 26 matches with PSG this season, scoring once every 100 minutes. Among these were key performances in European competitions—none more significant than the penalty he calmly converted to level the score against Arsenal in the Champions League final.

His objective during France's victory against Iraq was, remarkably, his initial goal in international competition football. This was quickly succeeded by a rapid hat-trick against Norway.

4. Viktor Gyokeres – 20 goals scored

The verdict is still pending on Gyokeres, who continues to be an enigmatic striker.

This fiscal year has witnessed his appearance borderline anonymous while he has failed to score against Wolves, Brighton, Bayer Leverkusen, and Brentford.

He proved notably ineffective during the League Cup final loss against Manchester City, with Mikel Arteta choosing not to start him in the crucial return match. He was finally brought on as the third substitute in the last eight minutes when the team desperately needed a goal at the Etihad Stadium.

Nevertheless, Gyokeres helped lead Sweden to the World Cup with a hat-trick versus Ukraine and an injury-time goal against Poland. He also netted crucial strikes against Leeds, Sunderland, Tottenham, Everton, and Fulham during Arsenal's championship campaign, including one on the road at Atletico Madrid. Such is life.

The forward scored his most recent goal during Sweden's impressive 5-1 win against Tunisia in their opening match of the World Cup, yet he failed to find the net when they suffered a similar defeat of 5-1 at the hands of the Netherlands. His participation in the World Cup came to an end earlier this week.

3. Deniz Undav – 21 goals

A former Brighton forward who achieved little during his time in the southeast, Undav has transformed into one of the Bundesliga's most reliable scorers after joining Stuttgart.

He has netted 57 goals across 116 games with the Swabians and showed exceptional performance during the second half of the previous season.

He used that role during the World Cup prior to Germany's premature elimination. Julian Nagelsmann continued to favor Kai Havertz as a starter, yet Undav managed to score three goals and provide two assists in two substitute appearances, which added up to only 56 minutes of playtime.

A remarkable scoring record, along with his crucial two-goal performance against Ivory Coast, moved him higher on this ranking.

2. Vinicius Junior – 22 scores

Real Madrid’s striker performed disappointingly for more than a year after he stated, "I'll do it 10 times if needed. They're not prepared," following his omission from the 2024 Ballon d'Or awards.

He has been slow to act, but he is now beginning to fulfill that pledge — five of his 22 goals this year came in crucial moments during the Champions League, plus two more in an impressive come-from-behind win against Atlético Madrid.

So far, his performance with Brazil hasn't been impressive. Neymar, however, isn't like that. His goals against Haiti, Morocco, and Scotland suggest he could soon emerge as The Player for his nation. Keep an eye out.

1. Harry Kane – 39 strikes

Undoubtedly one of the best players in global soccer at this moment How frequently have you been able to make that statement regarding an Englishman?

Kane did not represent the Three Lions during the March international window due to a small problem encountered in training. His lack of presence was clearly noticeable in the loss at Wembley against Japan.

Only one player in Europe's top five leagues has managed to score more than a goal per game this calendar year, with the English captain netting 31 goals across 26 matches for Bayern Munich in every competition during 2026 — featuring both home and away fixtures against Real Madrid and PSG.

He concluded his outstanding season with a hat-trick in the DFB Pokal final. Two scores against Croatia demonstrated that Kane has maintained his performance at the World Cup, where he recently delivered a match-defining double in the round of 32 versus DR Congo.

READ NEXT: 2026 Ballon d’Or Strength Chart: Kane Remains Ahead of French Trio

TRY A QUIZ: Could you list the leading 30 scorers in Europe's top five leagues for the year 2025?

Africa's Game Changer: How the 2026 World Cup Is Transforming African Football Economics

By Maxwell DANSO BOAKYE , Qualified Accountant and Certified Global Investment Analyst. Maxwelldanso733@gmail.com

\xa0 Away from home yet more connected than ever to a fresh period of financial backing, business expansion, and environmentally responsible soccer progress .

The FIFA World Cup has officially started. Even though the competition is taking place thousands of miles away from Africa roughly 6,200 miles (10,000 kilometers) from the United States , 5,700 miles (9,200 kilometers) from Canada , and 6,800 miles (11,000 kilometers) from Mexico , depending on the host city it has, in many ways, emerged as one of the most significant World Cups in African football history.

The causes go much further than just the tune. With 90% of African countries taking part advancing to the elimination rounds , the continent has already achieved one of its most impressive group efforts in a World Cup. However, the importance of this competition goes beyond just goals netted or games secured. Just as crucial are the successes happening behind closed doors, during sponsor discussions, media rights agreements, and financial reports. This World Cup offers Africa a special chance to enhance both its standing in football and the monetary worth of its football system.

For African soccer, triumph in North America might go beyond just a sports victory. It has the potential to spark greater financial support, deeper business collaborations, improved international recognition, and lasting economic development.

Starting from 1998, the number of African teams participating in the World Cup has been limited to five (increasing to six in 2010 when South Africa, as the host country, secured automatic qualification). In contrast, Europe typically fielded between 13 and 16 teams each time, whereas South America had four or five assured spots even though it had fewer affiliated nations. With 54 football associations, Africa remained significantly under-represented. This lower participation led to fewer games, reduced revenue potential, smaller prizes, and consequently, less funding returning to African football.

Larger Competition, Greater African Allocation

The expansion from 32 to 48 teams goes beyond just altering the appearance of the competition structure. It signifies the most significant reallocation of financial prospects in FIFA's history.

The share allocated to Africa has risen from five certain spots for nine with the 10th team Democratic Republic of the Congo qualifying via the intercontinental playoffs, resulting in an approximate increase of 80–100% in representation.

The effects go well beyond involvement in sports.

Each extra African country that meets the criteria gains access to millions of dollars from FIFA, fresh sponsorship deals, greater TV coverage, and improved worldwide recognition for local football.

For the first time, almost one out of every five teams participating in the World Cup may be from Africa.

Increased Number of Teams Equals Higher Revenue

In the past, the economic advantages from the World Cup were mainly enjoyed by a limited number of African countries that regularly made it through, including Morocco, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Tunisia, and Senegal.

The extended version makes these chances more accessible.

Rather than five federations splitting FIFA's monetary benefits, up to ten African football associations might receive direct support.

This significantly expands the spread of financial resources from football throughout the continent.

Every new country that becomes eligible gains global recognition which typically takes many years to achieve, drawing in advertisers, boosting television income, and raising the worth of both athletes and the national soccer brand.

As a result, the economic influence goes further than just FIFA prize funds, giving rise to completely new commercial systems.

The Biggest Tournament Fund in FIFA's Past

The economic impact of the 2026 World Cup is enhanced by a record rise in tournament rewards.

The FIFA has revealed a complete competition prize pool of US$871 million , almost double the US$440 million released during the 2022 World Cup.

Each eligible country is assured:

• US$10 million for qualification.
• US$2.5 million in preparation funding.

This implies that each African nation participating in the competition gets a a minimum assured payment of $12.5 million USD prior to a kick being taken

The participation of ten countries has resulted in a certain increase in revenue. US$125 million .

African football has never had such a significant assured monetary gain entering a World Cup as now.

Matches Won Hold Increased Monetary Significance

Certification marks just the start.

The extended elimination structure greatly enhances the financial rewards for victorious squads.

\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0 Qualification Guarantee	US$12.5M
Group Stage Exit	US$9M
Round of 32	US$11M
Round of 16	US$15M
Quarter-finals	US$19M

\xa0

*Champions -$50M

If a single African country makes a significant advancement in the tournament, it could bring in tens of millions of dollars in extra revenue, providing funds that have the potential to revolutionize football growth across a whole generation.

In contrast to earlier competitions, where advancing to the Round of 16 was mainly seen as a sports success, this will be particularly important financially in 2026.

The contrast reveals an extraordinary narrative.

Within only twenty years, the prize for securing the World Cup victory has risen from Between $20 million and $50 million thus a 150% increase .

Similarly important is the sharp increase in assured income, making involvement genuinely economically impactful.

The True Victors Belong to African Soccer Associations

In contrast with common belief, the funds awarded by FIFA are mainly distributed to national football federations instead of being given directly to individual athletes.

This implies that effective performances in the World Cup can support sustained growth in football.

Potential investments include:

• Building contemporary training facilities.
• Youth academy expansion.
• Women’s football programmes.
• Training for coaches and advancement of skills.
• Stadium upgrades.
• Grassroots football initiatives.

\xa0

More Than Soccer: An Economic Potential Across Continents

The financial consequences go further than just football governance.

Each extra African team brings more attention to the continent as a whole.

A greater number of television broadcasts feature African companies to international viewers.

Athletes receive greater transfer costs and salaries as scouts get more visibility.

Companies that provide financial support show increased readiness to fund national teams and local competitions.

Travel promotions, product sales, and business collaborations all gain an important global stage.

Why 2026 Marks Africa's World Cup

Earlier FIFA World Cups assessed Africa's achievements based on how many teams made it to the quarterfinals. The 2026 World Cup brings in a different standard: economic transformation .

More teams mean more revenue.More revenue means better infrastructure.

Improved facilities lead to more skilled athletes.

Top-tier athletes draw more financial support.

Increased funding enhances African football for future eras.

This is the positive loop that the enlarged FIFA World Cup enables.

Perhaps for the very first time in the history of FIFA, Africa's most significant achievement might not involve winning the cup. Instead, it could focus on using the event to develop a more robust, prosperous, and environmentally friendly football system throughout the continent.

This is why the 2026 FIFA World Cup holds more significance than just being another tournament for Africa.

It is, quite possibly, Africa’s World Cup .

Author: MAXWELL DANSO BOAKYE

The author holds qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Global Investment Analyst. Committed to influencing the geo-economic and financial conversation in Ghana and the broader region, he utilizes his varied background to promote insights on finance, investments, and economic growth.

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Mbappé Leads France to World Cup Last 16

July 2, Pakistan -- On Wednesday, France won decisively against Sweden with a score of 3-0, advancing to the Round of 16 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kylian Mbappe netted two goals to guide the reigning champions into the elimination rounds. This win also enabled the French striker to hit yet another World Cup scoring record.

Mbabbe found the net during added time in the first half following a coordinated play involving Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise from an effectively executed corner kick. He maneuvered past Viktor Gyokeres and then coolly placed the ball past goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom. This strike marked Mbabbe's ninth goal in World Cup elimination rounds, placing him above Leonidas and Ronaldo, both of whom had previously scored eight goals.

In the 53rd minute, France extended their advantage via Bradley Barcola following yet another outstanding pass from Michael Olise. Under Didier Deschamps' leadership, the French team maintained control of the ball and continually posed threats against Sweden's defensive line with swift passes and dynamic attacks. Olise further showcased his remarkable performance during the competition by steering France's offensive efforts throughout the game.

Mbape scored his second goal in the 74th minute by accurately timing his movement following another clever pass from Olise that split the defense. This assist marked Olise's fifth of the competition, earning him the distinction of being the first player since Thomas Häßler in 1994 to record five assists in one World Cup. Mbape’s two strikes also put him tied with Lionel Messi at six goals in the race for the Golden Boot.

Sweden was eliminated from the competition after losing, whereas France moved forward with confidence to the Round of 16. Under Didier Deschamps' leadership, the team will now play against Paraguay in their quest for yet another World Cup victory. France aims to maintain their impressive offensive performance throughout the elimination stage.

Should Football Live Without FIFA and the World Cup?

As the appeal of the World Cup keeps increasing, its organizing body, FIFA, may have never been as unpopular as they are now. So, why is soccer still dependent on FIFA? And can anything be done about it?

The attention of the global audience has turned yet again toward the World Cup. Primarily, it is focused on Lionel Messi's scoring achievements, a Goalkeeper from Cape Verde who became famous or viral videos featuring supporters.

It’s a common and reasonable shift away from the main topics leading up to the event. Several Argentine supporters were unable to get visas to join the tournament and witness Messi achieving something remarkable. Vozinha's mother received an exception to enter the country only after her son's impressive performance with Cape Verde. The spectators captured on camera are typically among the fortunate ones who can afford such trips. outrageous ticket prices.

The connection between Infantino and Trump has damaged confidence in FIFA

The choice to present U.S. President Donald Trump with FIFA's first-ever Peace Award in December, just prior to him initiating hostilities against Iran, which was participating in the event, allegedly occurred unilaterally and has damaged confidence inside and beyond the organization.

With the upcoming competition featuring matches across Europe, Africa, and South America to enable FIFA to distribute the The 2034 competition will be held in Saudi Arabia Unchallenged, Infantino is poised to surpass the standard presidential term limit of 12 years once more, seemingly facing little opposition, leading to heightened dissatisfaction with FIFA, as noted by numerous analysts. However, is there anything that can be done?

What methods does FIFA use to sustain its authority?

The FIFA oversees the worldwide growth of the sport but also functions as its commercial manager, a structure that numerous sports administration specialists challenge.

The World Cup serves as its main source of revenue, although the newly-updated and expanded Club World Cup has now become another major factor. This rivalry has resulted in numerous grievances from athletes and their union representatives regarding a busy schedule with excessive requirements.

"Personally, I don't believe the players receive much attention," stated Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and English forward Harry Kane before last year's event.

In terms of structure, all 211 member countries—organized into six regional federations—are granted one voting right for the president every four years. These national associations subsequently receive financial incentives, varying in amount, via different initiatives and projects.

"The financial aspect forms the foundation of FIFA's structure of authority. Funds are utilized by leaders to gain and strengthen their influence," said Miguel Maduro, who previously served as chairperson of FIFA's Governance and Review Committee, according to Ants. He left his position in 2017 following an effort to implement political neutrality regulations concerning Russia.

This is what sustains the system of favoritism where presidents reward supporters and penalize those who dare to speak out against them. It clarifies why current presidents face no opposition and remain in office for life.

Is it possible for politics and the European Union to compel FIFA to make changes?

Similar to Maduro, Nick McGeehan from the human rights organization FairSquare believes that any reforms must be enforced onto FIFA. As individual national members lack both motivation and capacity to push for changes, he is urging the European Union to step in and lead the effort.

"Political involvement is necessary. There's no alternative to fixing FIFA," he said to Ants.

I believe the clearest instance would be the European Union, which has the capability to oversee and manage sports similarly to how they handle sectors such as major technology companies.

Fair Square has submitted a grievance to the Investigatory Panel of FIFA's Ethics Committee regarding Infantino's interactions with Trump, while simultaneously, the fan organization Football Supporters Europe (FSE) and the consumer advocacy group Euroconsumers have also taken action. submitted a grievance regarding ticket costs to the European Commission just prior to the World Cup.

A representative from the Commission declined to comment on whether the EU could confront FIFA, stating only that the complaint filed by FSE and Euroconsumers was being handled "according to our usual processes."

Asked if they might get involved in the numerous controversial methods of obtaining World Cup tickets The representative continued by confirming that EU regulations "do not set specific prices for products and services, including concert tickets." However, they also mentioned: "Businesses are required to clearly communicate the full cost of their offerings to customers and refrain from deceptive marketing tactics, like promoting appealing initial ticket prices that aren’t actually accessible or using aggressive sales methods when people are waiting in an online line."

Although concrete political steps have been scarce up until now, McGeehan still holds onto optimism.

A politician will emerge somewhere who sees the political benefit in confronting individuals and genuinely holding them responsible. I find this idea very thrilling, as I believe it is unavoidable at present.

Could conflicts between UEFA and FIFA lead to a split?

Although it functions within FIFA's framework, underlying conflicts persist between FIFA and the influential European organization, UEFA. These issues became evident when UEFA recruited Somalian referee Omar Artan for the Super Cup match, just days following his rejection from entering the United States to referee during the World Cup.

"Football serves as a means to bring individuals together," stated UEFA Chairman Aleksander Ceferin.

Last year, representatives from UEFA left the FIFA Congress, alleging that Infantino was focusing on "personal political goals," following his delayed return from a diplomatic trip to the Middle East with Trump.

"Tensions exist between UEFA and FIFA, with UEFA being a major federation representing some of the largest and most historically significant football countries. Therefore, if there were ever a split in world football, it would likely originate from UEFA or several of its member nations," said Geoff Walters, a professor of sports business at the University of Liverpool in the UK, during an interview with Ants.

However, within the realm of football politics, it's challenging to stand out as an individual because you risk being criticized harshly. If you choose to speak up, what does that imply? Will it negatively impact your prospects of hosting events, which could offer advantages? Could it result in your exclusion from the global community?

Germany serves as an illustration of this situation. Following the team covering their mouths with a political statement during their initial game in Qatar, The team and federation have withdrawn their backing from political initiatives The group and association have scaled down their involvement with political issues The squad and organization have reduced their endorsement of ideological campaigns The crew and union have lessened their commitment to advocacy efforts The collective and governing body have distanced themselves from activist movements potentially with an intention to submit a bid for the 2034 or 2038 World Cup.

The UEFA faced the challenge of an elite-clubs-led proposed Super League in 2021 and also encountered the legal matters that arose afterward. Maduro stated that the organization "experiences similar management issues as FIFA, though in a more subtle and less extreme way."

What does a FIFA split mean for the rest of the globe?

The perception of UEFA among global governing bodies might have suffered due to Ceferin's recently publicized remarks suggesting that the enlarged World Cup will result in many games being "totally boring." A group consisting of 13 national football associations from Africa and Asia expressed their strong disagreement with these statements attributed to Ceferin in his home country of Slovenia through the publication Zurnal 24.

The influence and authority of Europe and South America, notably Brazil and Argentina, seems less formidable when contrasted with Infantino's stronghold in Asia and Africa. Walters mentioned this as yet another factor making a split highly unlikely.

What would occur to smaller nations around the globe if this initiative were led by major countries? How would this affect their capacity to grow football within their own nations?

This is one of the difficulties within international sports, not only during the World Cup but also across various athletic competitions, as larger teams aim to expand their influence and separate themselves from others. Their objective is to secure the biggest portion of the financial gains and revenue generated by the sport.

Is FIFA accessing regions that others cannot?

Although several people challenge these business intentions, Infantino maintains that they serve the bigger picture claims they are for the overall benefit argues that they are in the best interest of all asserts that their actions are for the common welfare states that they are acting in the public's favor upholds that they are working towards a better future emphasizes that they are doing what's right for everyone contends that their intentions are aimed at improving things reiterates that they believe these measures are necessary for the collective good affirms that they think this is beneficial for society as a whole

Each dollar we earn is reinvested into football," he said to journalists before the start of the competition. "If we sold our television rights to paid services, like others do, we'd make four times more income. We could even offer all the tickets for free, yet they would still find their way onto the illegal market.

Being the FIFA president, we must find a middle ground. We put resources into nations that others overlook—South Sudan, Bhutan. Nobody else is focusing on these places.

So far, this remains accurate. In terms of football, no one else possesses the authority or financial resources. Considering how deeply FIFA is embedded in the sport, the likelihood of a split appears low. Although dissatisfaction has never been greater, without a federation, an alliance of nations, or a notable figure taking action, the prospects for change remain barely more promising than they were previously.

Edited by: Chuck Penfold

Author: Matt Pearson

Spain Must Convert Possession Into Goals vs. Austria in Last 16

July 2, Pakistan -- Spain advances to their World Cup round-of-16 match against Austria thanks to a streak of 34 games without defeat, a defense that remains untouched, but an enduring issue continues to linger — what occurs when excessive ball control meets a firmly closed gate?

The European champions led by Luis de la Fuente will encounter Ralf Rangnick's Austria, who are appearing in their first World Cup knockout stage in 44 years following their second-place finish in Group J, as Spain enters the match with strong momentum but some minor tactical challenges.

Spain finished at the top of Group H with two victories and one draw, earning seven points out of nine following their hard-fought 1-0 victory against Uruguay on Friday. This was advancement, indeed, but far from flawless performance.

Spain has appeared solid defensively, with goalkeeper Unai Simon remaining unbeaten for 429 minutes during the World Cup. However, their initial 0-0 tie against Cape Verde in Atlanta served as an early sign that mere control might not suffice.

Faced with one of the competition's newcomers, Spain managed 74% ball control and took 27 attempts at goal, yet just seven found their way onto the target. Cape Verde remained compact, maintained solid defensive organization, and encouraged Spain to tackle an intricate challenge with very limited openings. The Spanish side struggled to break through.

For Spain, the sight was uncomfortably familiar. Their 2022 World Cup campaign ended on penalties after a 0-0 draw against Morocco, another match in which possession did not bring goals.

Due to hamstring injuries they suffered in April, talented and fast forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams arrived at the World Cup with some physical issues. As a result, De la Fuente opted to start Gavi and Ferran Torres on the wings during the match against Cape Verde, which limited Spain's ability to spread out across the field and led to more predictable attacking moves.

Harry Kane Secures England's Spot in World Cup Round of 16

July 2, Pakistan – Harry Kane netted two goals after halftime as England made a comeback to win against Congo with a score of 2-1, securing their place in the Round of 16 at the World Cup on Wednesday.

The highest goalscorer in England's history equalized with a header following Brian Cipenga's unexpected half-time advantage for Congo. Kane later netted the winning goal in the 86th minute, scoring into the upper corner at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Throughout most of the match, England appeared set for one of the greatest surprises in World Cup lore.

The winners of the 1966 World Cup will face joint host Mexico in the Round of 16 match taking place in Mexico City this Sunday.

FIFA Chief Calls Somali Referee's Case "Unfortunate"

On Wednesday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino referred to the situation involving Somali World Cup official Omar Artan, who was denied access to the United States, as "regrettable."

"It's also regrettable what occurred to... Omar, the official from Somalia. However, once more, we can't control everything," Infantino stated during a news briefing on the day before the competition.

"We consistently strive to discover resolutions, yet we must acknowledge that we do not hold dominion over nations or their governing bodies and law enforcement agencies; we are merely a sporting entity," he further stated.

Artan, who was selected as Africa's best male referee last year, stated he possessed the proper visa to enter the United States, yet he was denied entry at Miami International Airport and subsequently boarded a plane back to Turkey over the weekend.

A representative from the U.S. State Department stated that the referee had "ties to individuals believed to be affiliated with terrorist groups," which led to "the traveler being deemed not eligible for entry into the United States."

Artan could have become the initial referee from Somalia to serve in a World Cup final tournament.

Infantino was questioned by a UK journalist about whether FIFA had "lost control" of its competition due to the situation involving Artan and Washington's choice to deny visas to 15 individuals from Iran's team support crew.

"In 2035, I believe, we hope, the Women's World Cup will take place in the UK. Do you think it would be acceptable for FIFA to tell the British government who should be allowed entry into the country and who shouldn't? I'm not sure, perhaps you see it as normal?" Infantino questioned.

Infantino urged the press to "take it easy" – adding afterward that he didn't intend to suggest that FIFA wasn't taking action regarding matters like visas.

"When I say relax, I don't mean to sit around doing nothing. I mean we're still putting in work," he stated.

In our society, safety takes precedence over all else.

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Pubs Allowed to Serve Pints Outdoors During World Cup

Fans of the English national football team will have the opportunity to enjoy drinks on city streets throughout the World Cup, following government backing for bars to offer outdoor beer.

Local officials were also encouraged to quickly support numerous exclusive showings and beer tent gatherings so that supporters in Britain can view the competition this summer.

"Street-side drinking sessions" could encounter fewer regulatory hurdles with suggestions to extend the current two-year permit term for establishments allowing customers to dine and consume beverages outdoors.

Bars will be permitted to remain open until 2:00 AM if any of the home countries advance to the elimination rounds during this summer's competition, which starts on Thursday.

Alcohol Pubs will be allowed to serve alcohol until 1am UK time for matches beginning between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for games scheduled between 9pm and 10pm.

Pubs in England and Wales that have a regular 11 pm licensing permission for serving drinks can remain open past their usual closing time during England or Scotland knockout matches, provided they do not need to request additional approval.

Numerous matches will begin late at night or during the early morning due to the time zone differences between the UK and the host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

In the UK, community officials are urged to promptly address as many 'reasonable' requests for temporary event licenses as they can, enabling bars to stay open longer and host exclusive showings and gatherings in their beer gardens.

Authorities stated that it will be up to local councils to finally approve these proposals and weigh them against other considerations, although officials who unjustifiably obstruct projects will face consequences from the government.

Further information regarding this matter will be provided in a letter addressed to local officials by Communities Secretary Steve Reed, who stated that "the fun police" should not hinder "reasonable" outdoor events.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that bureaucratic rules "shouldn't hinder supporters from having fun at matches with their companions or prevent neighborhood bars from thriving."

"A casual drink on the sidewalk under sunny skies, talking about the pain of penalty kicks and enjoying the ambiance is exactly what pubs are for, and we support them," he said.

Hope we experience a summer where supporters savor impressive English victories displayed on large screens in bustling pub lawns.

Mr. Reed stated, "We are urging local authorities to back as many requests for special events as they can, since none of us would like to witness individuals forced inside halfway through penalty kicks."

So let's give the fun enforcers a yellow card, support England, and stand by our local bars. This time, it might actually bring the victory home.

Environmental Minister Emma Reynolds stated that officials are urging municipalities to adopt a "reasonable" strategy during elimination games, with certain regional governments setting closure hours due to "stringent sound-related issues."

At the same time, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) revealed intentions to alter the duration of pavement licenses as part of an effort to minimize administrative procedures.

At present, a permit for outdoor seating is available for up to two years.

The authorities aim to expand this and stated they will finalize specifics such as the upper limit for tenure and proposals for laws at a later stage.

It is also anticipated that advice will be sought regarding the introduction of a mandatory period for pavement licenses, which currently does not exist.

A representative from the Local Government Association, which advocates for councils throughout England, stated: "Councils encourage communities to unite and celebrate the World Cup, and they will collaborate with bars and locals to determine license-related matters according to regional circumstances and neighborhood requirements."

England's match in Group L will be against Croatia in Dallas on June 17 at 9 pm GMT, followed by their game against Ghana in Boston on June 23 also starting at 9 pm GMT, and then they will face Panama in New Jersey on June 27 at 10 pm GMT.

Scotland will kick off the competition with a match against Haiti in Boston on June 14 at 2:00 AM GMT. They will next take on Morocco in the same city on June 19 at 11:00 PM GMT, before heading to Miami for their game against Brazil on June 24 also starting at 11:00 PM GMT.

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South Korea's Kim Tae-Hyun Out of World Cup Group Stage

A report from the national team stated that Kim Tae-hyun suffered an ankle injury during a private training session held behind closed doors the day before. On the same day, he carried out personalized strengthening activities independently within the indoor gym. It is said that he sprained his left ankle while engaging in a 'rondo,' which is a type of ball-passing exercise. According to medical evaluations, Kim may not be able to take part in the three group-phase games at this World Cup.

According to FIFA rules, squads are allowed to swap out injured athletes for replacements within 24 hours prior to their initial World Cup game. Nevertheless, since it was confirmed that Kim Tae-hyun would be able to participate starting from the Round of 32, the squad chose not to bring in a replacement for him.

The South Korean national team entering this World Cup has drawn attention for its unreliable defense, which remains a major vulnerability. This issue has worsened with repeated injuries to crucial defenders. Kim Joo-sung from Hiroshima, who played a vital role in Hong Myung-bo’s lineup, was excluded from the final selection because of his injury. Similarly, Cho Yu-min of Sharjah had to pull out during a friendly game against Trinidad and Tobago in Salt Lake City, USA, last month following an injury.

Due to Kim Tae-hyun being sidelined, Lee Ki-hyuk of Gangwon is set to take up the role of left defender in the three-defender system during the encounter with the Czech Republic. Lee made an impression during the game against Trinidad and Tobago through his offensive efforts and precise passing, yet faced difficulties when facing strong opposition in the match against El Salvador. Additionally, there's a chance that Park Jin-seop from Jeonbuk might step into the lineup instead. If this happens, Park would likely serve as the central goalkeeper, allowing Kim Min-jae to shift to the defensive back position.

Besides Kim Tae-hyun, midfielder Bae Joon-ho from Stoke City is also anticipated to have difficulty participating in the match against the Czech Republic. Bae sprained his ankle following an aggressive slide challenge in the game versus Trinidad and Tobago. Since then, he has been undergoing individual rehabilitation efforts, and even on the day prior to the encounter with the Czech Republic, he was observed riding a bicycle independently rather than attending the team's practice session. It is expected that Bae will be fit for the subsequent match against Mexico.

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Unstoppable Rhythm: FC Barcelona Femení Looks Back on a Remarkable Season

FC Barcelona Femení concluded an outstanding 2025/26 campaign with victory along with three national titles. The team achieved its second Quadruple, seventh consecutive championship in the league, and twelfth win in the Copa de la Reina. The Copa de la Reina match versus Atlético Madrid attracted over 26,000 fans at Gran Canaria, establishing a new participation benchmark for the competition. Pina, Brugts, and Paralluelo each scored during the first half, with Pina scoring again in her fourth successive Copa de la Reina final.

Sixth record final and win in Oslo

Every success throughout this season came with its own narrative. In November, Aitana Bonmatí, who has won the Ballon d'Or three times, faced an injury that kept her out for five months. Despite her absence, the team maintained their winning streak. When Bonmatí made her return during the Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich, she received a reception at Spotify Camp Nou befitting a true icon. Barcelona secured a 5-3 overall victory: Paralluelo scored the opening goal, Putellas found the back of the net twice, and Pajor wrapped up the match in the last moments. FC Barcelona Femení achieved its sixth successive Champions League final appearance — making them the first club in women's football history to accomplish this feat.

On May 23 in Oslo, Barcelona defeated Lyon 4-0 in the championship match. Pajor scored first in the 55th minute and then again in the 69th, while Paralluelo netted two additional goals during injury time. Ewa Pajor was awarded as the Most Valuable Player of the final and also recognized as the leading scorer of the tournament, having found the back of the net 11 times across 10 games. This marks their fourth European title within six years. Following previous victories in Gothenburg, Eindhoven, and Bilbao, they have now claimed another trophy in Oslo. Five members from Barcelona were selected for the Team of the Season in the UWCL: Cata Coll, Mapi León, Patri Guijarro, Alexia Putellas, and Ewa Pajor.

Top of the world once more

In the last five years, the Ballon d'Or Féminin has always been awarded to Barcelona—Alexia Putellas received it two times, while Aitana Bonmatí won it three times. This trend might continue at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, as four players from the club remain strong favorites. Putellas had one of her most impressive seasons yet, netting 7 goals and providing 7 assists in the Champions League. Ewa Pajor found the back of the net in each match during the knockout stages, including the championship game. Caroline Graham Hansen ended the Liga F campaign with 10 assists, and Claudia Pina tops the league's scoring chart with 20 goals. The awarding event is scheduled for October 26, 2026, in Paris, offering Barcelona another reason to rejoice!

Having been the official sponsor of FC Barcelona, we have supported the club through each stage of this adventure — from the Supercopa final in January to the Champions League victory in Oslo. Collaborating with one of the top teams globally goes beyond having a logo on a shirt. It represents a relationship formed side-by-side with a squad that competes with strength, elegance, and genuine love for football. A fresh phase lies ahead, and it looks set to be equally remarkable!

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Somali WC Ref Gets Hero's Welcome After U.S. Visa Denial

A Somali official named Omar Artan was celebrated as a hero in Mogadishu on Wednesday following his exclusion from the U.S. and subsequent removal from FIFA's refereeing roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Artan, poised to be the first Somalian official to referee at a World Cup, came back to a welcoming crowd including numerous fans, government representatives, and individuals from Somalia's soccer scene at Aden Adde International Airport.

A respected official, who was recognized as Africa's Top Male Referee in 2025, has secured a position on FIFA's ultimate list of referees for the competition.

Nevertheless, he was not allowed to enter when he arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday because of "vetting issues" according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Additional information was not shared.

FIFA later took Artan off its list of referees for the World Cup. The Somali Embassy in Kenya stated that he received a legitimate U.S. visa prior to his travel to meet other officials at their World Cup preparation site in Miami.

After coming back, Artan appreciated the Somali population, authorities, and FIFA for their assistance, and stated he believes his World Cup aspiration continues to be possible.

I pledge to you, with Allah's permission, that I will be present at the next event," said Artan to supporters who were holding Somali flags at the airport. "I hope the Somalian people find reassurance in this and continue to have faith.

Artan was accompanied by law enforcement officials to the airport's executive lounge, where he was received by Somalia's sport minister and various high-ranking guests prior to speaking with regional journalists.

It is our responsibility to protect the Somali identity," he stated. "Somalia is ours, regardless of whether it is in a difficult situation or a favorable one. That flag is ours, and that passport is also ours.

The choice of refusing access to a World Cup representative selected by FIFA drew global backlash and prompted certain analysts to question the U.S.'s position as co-host along with Canada and Mexico.

Several nations, including Somalia, have been impacted by the broader U.S. travel bans implemented during the tenure of former President Donald Trump.

Although he was unable to participate in the tournament, Artan's success has received significant recognition throughout Africa and further afield. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, commended the Somalian official recently, stating that his groundbreaking achievement remains valid despite the situation.

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Bayern Munich Targets Manchester City's Gvardiol

Bayern Munich was previously connected with Manchester City defender Joško Gvardiol, but the German club has now withdrawn from the competition for the Croat. In contrast, Real Madrid has joined the contest in an attempt to lure him away from Manchester City:

Josko Gvardiol faces a decision between two possibilities: extending his contract with ManCity past 2028 — an official proposal has been made — or moving to Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. Real’s interest is genuine. Nevertheless, #MCFC are striving to retain his services.

FC Bayern have completely withdrawn from contention. The 24-year-old leading center-back has received significant admiration, yet he is seen as overly costly, and there is presently no requirement for another player in that role, according to reports.

It would be intriguing to find out precisely what price Manchester City was seeking for Gvardiol, who would have made an excellent addition for Bayern Munich. The most likely outcome is that Gvardiol will extend his deal with Manchester City, although Real Madrid might become increasingly eager to secure a high-profile acquisition.

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