Photo by Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images If winning a point against Spain with a heroic defensive performance wasn’t enough to make you fall in love with Cape Verde, they provided a definitive claim to become everyone’s favorite team in World Cup 2026 thanks to a remarkable 2-2 draw against Uruguay that gives them a real chance to reach the knockout rounds in their first-ever appearance. When Agustín Canobbio scored Uruguay’s second goal just before halftime to take the lead and all the momentum, it seemed as though Cape Verde’s magic carpet ride was about to end in the second half as the superior team looked set to take over in Miami. But an incredible show of resilience and the ability to take advantage of a horrible error by the Uruguay defense allowed them to score a huge equalizer, and cult hero Vozinha showed up again to help his nation pick up a second point in two games against the strongest teams in the group. A win against Saudi Arabia in the group finale will secure second place, which no one ever thought was possible when the World Cup began. But Cape Verde’s unwavering belief has them in a position to realize their wildest dreams, and the entire world now has no choice but to be behind them. Belgium will always let you down No one will argue that this is the best Belgium side we’ve ever seen, but the young talent around Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku is certainly good enough to have more than just two points in this World Cup after two games against Egypt and Iran. Belgium’s only goal in the group stage so far is an Egypt own goal, and their attack looks devoid of real ideas despite having one of the greatest creative minds in recent history in De Bruyne. Rudi Garcia’s appointment as coach was not exactly well received in the country anyway, and his performance so far in the tournament has proven that he probably wasn’t the man for the job. The goalless draw against Iran in Los Angeles followed a very similar script to Turkey’s elimination against Paraguay: a whole lot of possession, some decent but not great chances, plenty of hopeful shots from distance, and virtually no imagination in the final third. And the biggest problem is this is exactly what we saw at EURO 2024 and the last two years of the World Cup cycle, and it’s a very worrying sign for a future that won’t have Courtois, De Bruyne and Lukaku sooner rather than later. Belgium’s inability to turn their immense talent into an actual team is no longer a big surprise. This may very well just be who they are. Oh hey, Spain is actually good! Spain’s lethargic performance in their opener against Cape Verde was a big surprise given their results and performances in the last two years, and their track record of World Cup disappointments outside of the 2010 title seemed to be coming back to haunt them. But a very impressive 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in Atalanta on Sunday was enough to restore faith in La Roja’s ability to go deep in this tournament. Luis de la Fuente made good changes to his lineup, the entire team played with more energy, Mikel Oyarzabal remembered that he’s actually a lethal striker for the national team, and Lamine Yamal needed only 45 minutes to show why he’s one of the stars of the World Cup. Spain will be expected to beat a disappointing Uruguay side in the group finale and seal top spot, which will likely avoid a huge early matchup with Argentina in the Round of 32 and give them a nice path going forward in the knockouts. If the version we saw on Sunday is what we’ll see for the rest of the World Cup, Spain absolutely deserve to be called favorites. Mo Salah finally has a World Cup moment Before Sunday’s game against New Zealand in Vancouver, Mo Salah had played in three total World Cup matches, scoring both of his goals in losses in 2018 and getting an assist in the opening game of this tournament. But he was yet to win a match or make a truly decisive contribution, and when New Zealand took the lead in the first half and Egypt looked headed for a painful defeat, it seemed as though Salah’s moment would never come. Egypt took over in the second half, however, and Ziko’s header brough them back in the contest before we finally saw Salah do something special: a beautiful one-two inside the box with Ziko followed by a gorgeous finish gave his nation the lead, and Trézéguet’s header with 10 minutes to win sealed a 3-1 win, Salah’s first-ever victory at the World Cup, to put Egypt at the top of the Group G ahead of Friday’s finale against Iran needing only a draw to secure a spot in the knockouts. Salah is undoubtedly one of the greatest players in club football in the last decade, but he never had a magical moment with Egypt at the world stage before. He has one now, with a chance for more to come in what could be his last World Cup.

BARCELONA, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 17: Toni Fernandez of FC Barcelona Atletic reacts during the semi-final of Copa Catalunya match between FC Barcelona Atletic and FC Andorra at Estadi Johan Cruyff on February 17, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona winger Toni Fernandez is reportedly eager to stay at the club and wants to grasp his chance to impress Hansi Flick in pre-season despite talk of a potential summer move away from the club. There’s been talk that Fernandez could head out on loan, with Alaves and Real Oviedo both mentioned as admirers of the teenager. An update from Mundo Deportivo claims that Fernandez is already focusing on being with Flick’s first-team for pre-season and wants to show the German coach what he can do. Fernandez then expects to continue with Barcelona Atletic as he is well aware of the competition for places in attack in the senior squad. The report also highlights how Fernandez is yet to receive a contract extension offer from Barcelona despite the fact that his existing deal expires in 2027. The teenager is widely regarded as one of the brightest young stars at the club currently and made his first-team debut in the Copa del Rey in January 2025. Flick then handed Fernandez his La Liga debut last October against Girona.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 21: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H match between Spain and Saudi Arabia at Atlanta Stadium on June 21, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images) | Getty Images Lamine Yamal is enjoying himself at World Cup 2026 after returning from a hamstring injury that saw him miss the end of Barcelona’s season. The teenager was a lively presence as a substitute in Spain’s opener against Cape Verde and then took just 11 minutes to score his first World Cup goal in a big win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Yamal then fired back at Saudi fans after the match. The Barca star uploaded a series of images and video to Instagram, including one showing Saudi fans shouting and chating “Where is Yamal?” View this post on Instagram “I’m here” was the simple response from Yamal. He also added: “Let’s go Spain!! Thank you all for the support, always with God.” Spain boss Luis de la Fuente spoke about Yamal after his team’s win and said he’s in “perfect condition” after playing 45 minutes against Saudi Arabia. “We had to see how the match unfolded, but today was an important step for what lies ahead,” he said. “He is in perfect condition now and it’s also good to leave it at that – leaving him hungry for more.”

BARCELONA, SPAIN - JANUARY 07: Dani Rodriguez of FC Barcelona Atletic controls the ball during the Segunda RFEF G3 match between FC Barcelona Atletic and Valencia Mestalla at Estadi Johan Cruyff on January 07, 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) | Getty Images Dani Rodriguez is reportedly planning on leaving Barcelona in the summer transfer window in order to seek a new challenge. The 20-year-old had looked set for a bright future at Barcelona after making his way through the ranks but a series of injuries have disrupted his progress. According to Mundo Deportivo, Rodriguez has made the decision to move on as he is “aware that his chances with the first team are limited, given that he plays in the same position as Lamine Yamal.” Rodriguez does still have a year left to run on his current contract but is hoping offers arrive. Dinamo Zagreb are mentioned as a possible destination if he does leave Barca. The report adds that Rodriguez could still renew his contract before leaving in a move which would see Barca keep control over his future. Alternatively, Barcelona could also decide to include a buy-back option in any permanent deal as they have done in several other recent transfers.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 21: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H match between Spain and Saudi Arabia at Atlanta Stadium on June 21, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Patrick Smith - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) | FIFA via Getty Images Lamine Yamal admitted he was in dreamland after scoring his first ever World Cup goal in Spain’s 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The teenager was in the starting XI for the match for the first time at the World Cup and took just 11 minutes to score by sliding home at the far post to convert a cross from Mikel Oyarzabal. “Very special, I’ve always dreamed of being at a World Cup and being able to score in my first game as a starter is a dream come true. I watched the other World Cup in class and being able to score here with my mother and my family is a dream come true,” he said. Yamal also gave credit to his team-mates and says the quality within the squad is why they are one of the favorites for victory at the tournament. “Rodri is a Ballon d’Or winner, Pedri is, for me, the best midfielder in the world, we have Nico, Olmo, Oyarzabal…” he added. “They’re all very good. If I can help in any way, that’s what I’ll be here for. We’re world-class players, that’s why we’re favorites.” Spain now go on to a final group game against Uruguay on Friday in Mexico.

Ghana midfielder has denied all accusations as he prepares to begin his World Cup campaign in Boston on TuesdayThe Football Association has remained coy over what will happen when England line up for their next World Cup match against Ghana on Tuesday and come up against a familiar opponent in Thomas Partey. The former Arsenal midfielder played for Villarreal this season, but will be released at the end of his contract this month.In the pre-match ceremony, all players are expected to shake hands with opponents, and the FA will leave England’s players to decide whether they wish to go through the ritual with Partey. The squad includes two of his former club-mates, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. Continue reading...

Matheus Cunha scored twice as Brazil moved top of World Cup Group C with a 3-0 win over Haiti. Vinícius Júnior netted the third, with all of the goals coming in a first half during which Brazil looked markedly improved from their insipid opening draw against Morocco.The result means Haiti, who lost to Scotland 1-0 in their first game, can no longer reach the knockout phase. Continue reading...

Club triggered £34.5m release clause for Osasuna forwardHead coach keen on player’s versatility and paceThe Osasuna winger Víctor Muñoz will become the first signing of Andoni Iraola’s reign at Liverpool after the club triggered a £34.5m release clause, beating Newcastle to his signature. Muñoz will sign a six-year contract after undergoing a medical on Wednesday in Atlanta, where he is part of the Spain squad at the World Cup.Liverpool have been following Muñoz’s progress for an extensive period and sped up the deal after Iraola’s appointment because the head coach was eager to add his compatriot. Iraola spent most of his playing career at Athletic Bilbao, continues to closely monitor La Liga and Muñoz has impressed him. Continue reading...

Following the final matchday in Segunda, the play-offs for the final promotion spot have been decided, as has the final side to be relegated. Matchday 42 in Segunda also saw Racing Santander crowned as champions, following a resounding victory over Cadiz.The Cantabrian side had already secured promotion with two games to go, while Deportivo La Coruna sealed their place in La Liga last time out. Two points separated them going into the final weekend, but Deportivo fell to a 2-1 defeat to Las Palmas, while Racing thumped Cadiz to secure the title.Play-off places decided with final day dramaImage via Malaga CF. Malaga celebrate their promotion place.That victory for Las Palmas was crucial, securing them 5th spot and a place in the play-offs. Had they failed to win, it would have allowed Burgos in, who beat Andorra 1-0, but all four sides above them were victorious. Eibar, who finished 8th, were in with a slim chance at the start of the day, but Castellon’s victory was enough for the final play-off spot, putting them 6th on 72 points, level with Burgos. One point ahead were Malaga (4th) and Las Palmas (5th)Los Boquerones closed out their league campaign with a 2-0 win over relegated Real Zaragoza in Aragon, and the results of the sides below them meant that Almeria had to win, and Segunda Pichichi Sergio Arribas (25 goals) got the vital strike in a 1-0 win over Real Valladolid, meaning they finished 3rd with 74 points.Image via Las Palmas. Las Palmas finish 5th.It settles the play-offs as Castellon against Almeria, with the first leg on the 6th of June at 21:00 CEST, with the return at the same time on the 9th of June. Las Palmas will host the first leg of the other semi-final against Malaga on the 7th of June at 21:00 CEST, and the return will be on the 10th. The first leg of the final is on the 14th of June, and the return is on the 20th.Mirandes become final side to be relegatedThe final relegation spot was also to be decided, but Mirandes needed a win over Leganes at Butarque to remain in Segunda. Los Jabalies were looking good for a win until the 68th minute, when Alex Millan’s goal for Leganes all but ended their hopes, the only goal of the game.The post Segunda play-offs decided as Mirandes become final side to be relegated appeared first on Football España.

Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal has admitted that he was worried that he would miss the World Cup when he went down with injury against Espanyol in April. The 18-year-old is set to be the face of Spain’s World Cup bid, but is recovering from a hamstring injury that is likely to keep him out of the first game against Cape Verde.Manager Luis de la Fuente noted after announcing the squad that those who were not ready for the first game would be fit for the second against Saudi Arabia. While that will be the target for the teenage star, there has been some suggestion that he could miss that game too. Speaking to Marca from the Spain camp, Lamine Yamal explained his thinking after he suffered the injury.“Yes, I remember the sequence in which I got injured. I was praying internally that it was nothing serious, just a cramp or something, because I was so close to the World Cup and I knew it was a hamstring injury, something I’d never had before, but it wasn’t a small thing. So I was afraid it was serious, and especially afraid that it wasn’t serious but that I could relapse and miss the World Cup.”Break could help with fatigue during World CupNaturally, Lamine Yamal would far rather be fit and firing for the tournament, but the Barcelona winger did concede that it would allow his body a break before going to the United States, Canada and Mexico, rather than fatigued from the run-in.“It’s also true that it helps to be playing in a World Cup, so your mind is as if you haven’t played a single game all season and I’m really looking forward to making my debut.”“The pressure suits me” – Lamine YamalBeing the biggest stage in football, every player will be keen to feature. Yet Lamine Yamal has never been shy in the spotlight, and noted that the pressure that comes with it is not an issue for him.“It suits me better, maybe more or less, but it suits me better. In the end, when your standards are higher, you raise your level. If my standards were the same as another player’s, maybe I wouldn’t be playing at the level I am. So I like it this way, I see it as a challenge and I really enjoy it.” Pau Cubarsí arrived at Spain's World Cup training camp in Las Rozas wearing a protective splint on his right arm due to a mild finger capsulitis suffered against Alavés. It will not affect his preparation or availability for the tournament. Cubarsí will be able to train… pic.twitter.com/jR5yhL1C0x — barcacentre (@barcacentre) May 31, 2026“In my mind it’s like I’ve been playing football for 10 years, but in reality it’s only been 3, and 4 years ago I was playing with them at the sports centre. So a kid who was playing with you 3 years ago is now going to play in a World Cup. It has to be crazy, really crazy.”Lamine Yamal is not the only injury concern for de la Fuente, with Nico Williams also currently recovering from injury, after a season hampered by fitness issues. Mikel Merino is also coming off the back of a long-term absence, although he is now fit to play at least.The post Lamine Yamal after injury threatened World Cup: “I was praying internally it was nothing serious” appeared first on Football España.

Former Rayo Vallecano and Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is poised to take over at Liverpool this summer, following the exit of Arne Slot. The Basque manager announced his departure from Bournemouth earlier this month, and has been in conversations with a number of clubs recently.Iraola’s work at Rayo Vallecano and subsequently Bournemouth, promoting the former and securing a first European qualification for the latter, has impressed the football world, and as such has left him with his pick of jobs this summer. In March, after Ernesto Valverde announced that he would be leaving San Mames, he was linked with a return to the club he spent most of his playing career at. Yet they already had Edin Terzic lined up as a replacement.Iraola in pole position to replace Arne Slot at LiverpoolAfter Arne Slot’s exit from Liverpool was announced on Saturday afternoon, following two years at Anfield, multiple reports claim that Iraola will now be offered the job. Should Iraola find their terms to his liking, then the job will be his. Ben Jacobs says that Iraola is the leading contender, while Matteo Moretto says the Reds are now in pursuit of him. In addition, Santi Aouna claims that Iraola is top of their shortlist.Crystal Palace, AC Milan and Chelsea talksChelsea were initially interested in Iraola after dismissing Liam Rosenior, but talks did not progress, and Xabi Alonso subsequently was appointed. The side most closely linked have been Crystal Palace, who are looking to replace Oliver Glasner, and fit several of Iraola’s requirements. AC Milan had also opened talks with Iraola after Max Allegri was dismissed, but those talks reportedly stalls. It seems likely that Liverpool will be Iraola’s first choice too, although he has always been particular about the projects he takes on.The post Andoni Iraola poised to take over at Liverpool following Arne Slot exit appeared first on Football España.

Real Madrid President Florentino Perez has this week promised that there will be signings to bring the best in the world. “They will arrive, as they always do,” commented Perez. Now there have been suggestions of which players that Perez could be referring too.There is little doubt about who will be Real Madrid’s next manager if Perez wins the elections set for next Sunday, as he fends off a challenge from Enrique Riquelme. Jose Mourinho has reportedly already signed his contract to take over from Alvaro Arbeloa. There is less certainty over the new players that could arrive. Mourinho is seemingly keen to strengthen the centre-back and central midfield positions first and foremost, while the full-back spot is another area he would be keen to address.Perez lining up three signings for Real MadridAs explained by Cadena Cope, Perez has three names in mind should he return to power. One of those will be re-signing Victor Munoz, who was sold to Osasuna last summer. Los Blancos have an €8m buyback option for their former academy talent.At centre-back, Real Madrid are now being linked with Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni. The Italian defender has been heavily linked with Barcelona in recent months, but the Catalan side froze talks due to doubts about his fit from Hansi Flick.In midfield, Perez would look to pull off the blockbuster signing of Joao Neves from Paris Saint-Germain. Partner Vitinha has previously been referred to as Real Madrid’s dream signing, but Neves would certainly improve Los Blancos.Real Madrid’s attack another question markArguably the biggest question mark for Mourinho to solve next season will be Real Madrid’s forward line. Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe are yet to truly click after two seasons, and none of the three managers that have coached them have found an equilibrium with both in the side. Mourinho will have that at the top of his agenda when he arrives back at the Bernabeu.The post Real Madrid President Florentino Perez lines up three transfers if he is re-elected appeared first on Football España.

Ajax are set to shop in La Liga for their next manager, with a move to appoint Michel Sanchez moving one step closer to completion.Just two season after guiding Girona into the Champions League for the first time their history, Michel was unable to stop them from being relegated at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. Despite this, the 50-year-old’s stop remains very high, and he will not stick around in Segunda in order to move to Amsterdam.It’s been in the pipeline for a couple of weeks that Michel would be joining Ajax in the summer, but the next step towards this happening has now taken place – that’s because Girona have confirmed in an official statement that the former Rayo Vallecano and Huesca manager has left Montilivi following relegation.“Míchel Sánchez will not continue at Girona FC. The club would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Madrid coach for the dedication, commitment and professionalism with which he has led the first team, as well as for the human, close and respectful treatment he has maintained at all times with the members, fans, management and all the workers of the Club.”Michel had a memorable spell in CataloniaAlthough it turned out to be a disappointing end for Girona, there is no doubt that Michel will leave the Catalan club with a very good reputation among the supporters. Guiding them to the Champions League in 2024 is something that many will remember for a very long time, which is why they will let him go to Ajax with their best wishes.Girona must now begin their search for a new manager. It will not be easy to attract the level of coach they would have wanted given their relegation, and on top of this, it would be no surprise to see their squad picked apart over the summer.The post Ajax set to appoint La Liga manager as exit confirmed by club appeared first on Football España.

As the managerial merry-go-round swings into motion this summer, two this season’s La Liga clubs have announced that their coaches will continue, despite doubts over recent performances. RCD Mallorca will hold onto Martin Demichelis, despite the fact the Argentine took them down on the final weekend of La Liga.This week it has been confirmed that Inigo Perez will leave Rayo Vallecano at the end of his contract this summer, and Eder Sarabia surprised Elche fans by announcing that he would be resigning, despite keeping Los Franjiverdes up. Michel Sanchez is expected to take over at Ajax after leaving relegated Girona, failing to beat Elche on the final day.RCD Mallorca announce contract extension for Martin DemichelisDemichelis initially sparked a reaction from Los Bermellones, but Mallorca struggled down the stretch, losing to Levante, Alaves and Getafe in the final four games, which ultimately damned them to relegation. Mallorca have now announced that he has signed a new deal until 2028, giving him a chance to return Mallorca to their La Liga status. For his part, Demichelis had mentioned a desire to stay even if Mallorca descended during the season.Espanyol back Manolo Gonzalez despite downturnMeanwhile Espanyol have also announced an extension until 2027 for manager Manolo Gonzalez. His position came under heavy pressure during a winless run in 2026 that extended for 19 games, but two wins from their final three games kept them up. Monchi has arrived as a General Sporting Director, and it was thought that he could look to replace Gonzalez, but he has been backed instead. An emotional Gonzalez was shown to have the backing of the players and fans in the closing stages.Jose Bordalas mulling over futureOne of the names that Espanyol were linked to was Getafe manager Jose Bordalas. He is also out of contract this summer, and was expected to leave, but the Espanyol job will not be offered to him. The other opening he has been linked to is Sevilla, but with Sergio Ramos’ takeover talks breaking down, that option could be off the table too. Diario AS report that this week will be crucial in deciding his future, and he will take a decision on Monday. Bordalas could yet renew with Getafe, who he guided to the Conference League this season.The post Two clubs announce extensions for managers as Jose Bordalas mulls over future appeared first on Football España.