France captain Kylian Mbappe has praised Dayot Upamecano ahead of Les Bleus' opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the Bayern Munich defender as one of the best centre-backs in world football.
Romelu Lukaku made another decisive statement from the bench as Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G clash, with coach Rudi Garcia insisting the striker will not be rushed back into the starting XI.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente called for calm after his side were held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde in their opening Group H match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cape Verde celebrated a landmark moment in their football history on Monday as the World Cup debutants held reigning European champions Spain to a remarkable 0-0 draw in their opening Group H encounter in Atlanta.
Nestory Irankunda has admitted he was still struggling to take in the moment after helping Australia begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Turkey.
Martin Odegaard has insisted he is fully fit and ready to lead Norway into their opening World Cup Group I clash against Iraq in Foxborough, Massachusetts on Tuesday, as the nation prepares for its first finals appearance since 1998.