Latest Football (Soccer) News
Neymar Breaks 2026 Goal Drought with Brace for Santos
Neymar scored two goals Thursday to lead Santos to a 2-1 victory over Vasco da Gama in the Brasileirão fourth round, marking his first goals since December 2025. After the match, the Brazilian star addressed critics, stating "That's football. One day you're no good or you're 'retired'; the next, people say you have to go to the World Cup," amid speculation about his potential return for Brazil at the upcoming men's World Cup.
FIFA President Affirms Mexico's Ability to Host 2026 World Cup
FIFA president Gianni Infantino stated Thursday he has "full confidence" in Mexico as a World Cup host despite violent incidents following the death of drug lord 'El Mencho' that left at least 70 people dead. Infantino reiterated to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum that FIFA expects Mexico to stage all scheduled matches, including 13 total matches with four in Guadalajara, Jalisco state, the cartel's central hub.
Mexico's Guadalajara Region Faces Security Challenges Ahead of World Cup
Mexico confirmed Thursday that a World Cup diving event scheduled for a Guadalajara suburb next week was canceled over security concerns, though President Sheinbaum vowed there was "no risk" for visitors. The city is set to host four World Cup matches and an international playoff in late March, with organizations like the Jamaica Football Federation closely monitoring the security situation.
Neymar Confronts Thiago Mendes Over 2020 PSG Injury
During Santos' victory, tensions flared between Neymar and Vasco midfielder Thiago Mendes, whom Neymar blamed for a serious 2020 injury at PSG. Neymar stated: "He already broke me once at PSG, and he threatened me again today. It's always the same with him."
Brazil Manager Ancelotti Considers Neymar for World Cup Selection
Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has indicated that Neymar would be considered for World Cup selection if he achieves full fitness. Neymar, who underwent surgery at the beginning of 2026 and recently returned to play, stated that Thursday's match was only his second full 90 minutes this year.
Portuguese Federation Monitors Mexico Security Situation
The Portuguese soccer federation said this week it was "closely monitoring the delicate situation" ahead of a friendly match against Mexico's national team in Mexico City. This reflects broader concerns among participating nations regarding security for matches scheduled in Mexico during the 2026 World Cup period.
FIFA Projects 200% Revenue Increase for 2026 World Cup
FIFA expects revenues from the 2026 World Cup to increase by 200 percent compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, reaching approximately $3 billion in total revenue. However, critics note that expensive ticket prices are affordable only for high earners, not ordinary fans.
Former FIFA President Blatter Criticizes Infantino's Leadership
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter labeled the organization "a dictatorship" under Gianni Infantino's leadership, claiming the FIFA Council has no meaningful decision-making power. Blatter, who has been banned from international soccer, stated that his only contact with FIFA is through lawyers and expressed desire for an honorable farewell at a FIFA Congress.
Infantino Advocates for Russia's Return to International Soccer
FIFA president Infantino is advocating for Russia to return to international soccer after being banned since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, arguing that politics should be separated from sport. Ukraine's Foreign Minister has criticized this position, though Infantino noted that other sports like tennis are already allowing Russian athletes to compete.
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes 'El Mencho' Killed by Mexican Military
Last Sunday, the Mexican army killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes 'El Mencho,' leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, sparking several days of violence across nearly a dozen Mexican states. Cartel members burned cars and blocked roads in response to the military operation.