Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 5, 2026, 5:48 PM ET

World Cup Preparations & Warm-Up Matches

South American teams will aim to extend their perfect record at North American World Cups this summer, though early results suggest the gap may be closing after Mexico delivered a commanding 5-1 victory over Serbia in their final warmup match. Japan abandoned their original training site in Monterrey due to an uneven pitch with dirt patches, relocating preparations as the tournament approaches. Spain failed to impress in their first sendoff match, settling for a 1-1 draw with Iraq despite missing Lamine Yamal, while France eased injury concerns about William Saliba ahead of their opening match. England will not be influenced by pitch conditions for their friendly against New Zealand, according to Thomas Tuchel, as Harry Kane faces reduced playing time with three strikers competing for minutes.

Brazil's World Cup preparations hinge on Neymar's MRI scan Monday to evaluate his right calf injury, with coach Carlo Ancelotti providing updates on the star forward's fitness. The United States men's team transformed from embarrassment in Italy to serious contenders hosting on home soil, seeking to capitalize on their geographic advantage. Andy Robertson completed his move to Tottenham on a free transfer from Liverpool, and the Scotland captain admitted it was a "huge pinch yourself moment" when named in Steve Clarke's 26-man squad. Northern Ireland showed resilience beyond their years in a 1-0 friendly win over Guinea, featuring a record youthful side that impressed despite limited experience.

Transfer Market & Club Movements

Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme is promising an unprecedented signing of Erling Haaland if elected, directly borrowing from Florentino Perez's election playbook amid reports of a £130m move for Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise. Jos Mourinho will return as Real Madrid manager should Perez win re-election, though former Tottenham boss Thomas Frank ruled out a return to management this summer, stating it "does not feel like the right time." Benfica reached agreement with Marco Silva to replace Mourinho, while Liverpool appointed Andoni Iraola as head