Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 7, 2026, 11:47 PM ET

World Cup Predictions & Tournament Outlook

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, EA Sports has correctly predicted the winners for the past four tournaments, while ESPN's comprehensive bracket simulation breaks down how each of the 48 teams will perform. The expanded format in North America could see multiple records broken, though the tournament faces potential weather disruptions with several host cities entering peak thunderstorm season. FIFA has unveiled new pre-match ceremonies featuring huge flags and pyrotechnics for all matches, though the governing body faces criticism after demanding payment for mistakenly free tickets.

Player Injuries & Squad Updates

Denmark's Christian Eriksen is "conscious and doing well" after collapsing during a friendly against Ukraine, adding to concerns for several World Cup participants. Japan changed training venues in Monterrey after encountering uneven pitches with dirt patches, while Spain will face Peru without young stars Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams due to injury recovery. Brazil's Neymar will undergo an MRI scan on his right calf injury, and Paraguay forward Julio Enciso's tournament participation is in doubt after injury in a 4-0 win over Nicaragua. Germany lost 18-year-old midfielder Lennart Karl to a training injury, and Argentina defender Leonardo Balerdi was ruled out with calf problems. France's Eduardo Camavinga attended Harvard Business School courses after his World Cup omission.

International Friendlies & Warm-Up Results

Portugal's Rafael Leão was sent off for punching an opponent during a 2-0 win over Chile, while Brazil defeated Egypt 2-1 with Endrick scoring early in the second half. Spain's 1-1 draw with Iraq in La Coruña marked their first warm-up match without Yamal. The USMNT fell 2-1 to Germany despite Antonee Robinson's 7/10 performance and stunning volley, though coach Mauricio Pochettino found positives in the defeat. England's Harry Kane header secured a 1-0 win over New Zealand in Tampa, while Saudi Arabia's warm-up against Puerto Rico was halted for two hours due to lightning in Texas. DR Congo will play behind closed doors amid Ebola concerns.

Transfer Market Movement

Manchester United's pursuit of Éderson faces delays after his Brazil call-up, with the Atalanta midfielder replacing Wesley in the squad. Real Madrid joined the race for Mateus Fernandes alongside Manchester