Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: April 1, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification & Preparations

The field for the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup is now finalized after a dramatic conclusion to the qualification window, with the Democratic Republic of Congo clinching their first appearance in 52 years following a 1-0 playoff victory over Jamaica, secured by Axel Tuanzebe's decisive strike. Iraq also punched their ticket by ousted Bolivia in the intercontinental playoff to complete the 48-team lineup, marking their first finals appearance in four decades. Meanwhile, European giants Italy suffered a devastating setback, failing to qualify for a third consecutive tournament after losing a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a heartbreaking defeat that left coach Gennaro Gattuso stating his future “doesn’t matter” right now.

As teams solidify their spots, the focus shifts to tournament readiness, with England facing mounting scrutiny following a disappointing international window; despite playing through two mandated water breaks to mimic World Cup heat, Thomas Tuchel admitted that key players like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer "struggled to make a difference" in the 1-0 loss to Japan. The defeat amplified concerns about life without captain Harry Kane, whose absence due to a "minor" injury provided a grim glimpse of England's reliance on him, leading to debates over squad selection, with Phil McNulty releasing his own 26-man roster prediction. On the disciplinary front, Spanish international Lamine Yamal was reportedly deeply affected by anti-Muslim chants directed at him during the goalless draw with Egypt, prompting the Spanish Football Federation to issue condemnations against xenophobic remarks.

Several national teams are now to group stage challenges, with the USMNT facing a potentially "stiffest test" from Türkiye, who secured their berth by winning the European playoff final against Kosovo, while the US performance itself is generating internal alarm bells over Christian Pulisic's 14-match goal drought following a 3-1 loss to Portugal where he was rated a 3/10. Elsewhere, Brazil youngster Endrick expressed a "sense of urgency" after his late-game contributions helped secure a 3-1 friendly win over Croatia, and Argentina gave Lionel Messi an emotional send-off with a resounding 5-0 victory against Zambia. In Scotland, manager Steve Clarke faces pressure after friendly defeats to Japan and Ivory Coast, with his contract talks currently on hold, even as he must submit a provisional 55-man squad list.

Club Management & Player Speculation

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly nearing the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, marking the third managerial change for Spurs in a turbulent season, raising questions about whether his tactical approach is suitable for a potential relegation battle. Meanwhile, Manchester United are planning a substantial summer clear-out, aiming to generate over £100 million in transfer fees by offloading eight senior players, concurrently facing a wage dilemma regarding Andre Onana whose salary is scheduled to spike upon European qualification. In transfer rumors, Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike has surfaced as an "attractive option" for Real Madrid, who are reportedly prioritizing him over Erling Haaland, while Manchester City appear to be leading Manchester United in the pursuit of midfielder Elliot Anderson.

Other Sporting Developments

Away from the pitch, attention turned to the upcoming golf major, as Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed that Tiger Woods will miss The Masters, continuing his break from golf to "seek treatment" following his recent car crash arrest. In domestic football news, the administrative chaos at League Two side Barrow, now on their fifth manager of the season, has led some observers to dub them the "kings of chaos", while Michael Carrick has steered Manchester United into Champions League contention. In horse racing, connections of staying stalwart L’Homme Presse have been left "completely devastated" after ruling the horse out of the Randox Grand National, and in County Championship cricket, the ECB will trial the use of replacement players to cover for injuries and significant life events.