Italy's political parties are clashing over control of the national football federation (FIGC) following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The ruling Brothers of Italy party seeks to reduce FIGC's power and potentially place it under special administration, while football leaders accuse the government of power grabs.
Iraq's national soccer team, the Lions of Mesopotamia, has qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1986, sparking immense pride and unity among the Iraqi diaspora in Dearborn, Michigan. Fans, including immigrants and youth, express deep emotional connection to the team, viewing its success as a significant milestone and a symbol of heritage.
Iraqi fans expressed immense joy and pride as the national football team qualified for the FIFA World Cup after a 40-year absence. Celebrations erupted across the country, with citizens uniting to mark the significant sporting achievement, which they believe will also boost Iraq's international image.
England's Lionesses suffered a 4-0 defeat to Spain, their heaviest loss in 17 years, jeopardizing automatic World Cup qualification. A win or draw was needed, but now England must beat Ukraine and hope Spain loses to Iceland to avoid playoffs.
England's Lionesses can secure a spot at the Brazil World Cup finals with a win or draw against Spain on Friday. The European champions lead Group A3 by three points, with Spain as their main rivals for direct qualification.
Haiti qualifies for the World Cup for the first time since 1974, sparking national excitement and shifting allegiance from long-time favorite Brazil to their own "Grenadiers." The team faces Brazil in Group C on June 19.
Paraguay, under coach Gustavo Alfaro, returns to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, relying on defensive strength and collective intensity, with star player Julio Enciso leading the charge.
UEFA will implement a two-tier qualification system for the 2030 World Cup, mirroring the Champions League format. Top 36 nations will compete in League 1, while the remaining 18 will play in League 2, aiming for fairer competition and fewer uncompetitive matches.
China's men's and women's under-17 teams qualify for the World Cup after advancing in their respective AFC Asian Cups, marking a 21-year milestone for the men's team.
In Cape Verde, a small island nation off West Africa, World Cup qualification is transforming dreams on and off the pitch.
