issf junior world cup

Portugal made a formal approach to Bournemouth teenager Eli Junior Kroupi before the 2026 World Cup, but the striker rejected the chance to switch nations. Roberto Martinez confirmed Portugal respected his decision to stay with France. Kroupi, who was also eligible for Ivory Coast, continues to grow in importance after a strong Premier League season with Bournemouth.

Tensions between coaches and Hockey India (HI) are not new, but on Wednesday former India captain PR Sreejesh publicly criticised the federation over the treatment of Indian coaches after being overlooked for the junior men’s team chief coach role.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Neymar’s place in the nation’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad, ending months of uncertainty surrounding the superstar forward’s international future. Neymar had not played for Brazil since 2023 because of serious knee and hamstring injuries, but improved fitness and strong performances for Santos convinced Ancelotti to bring him back.

Hockey legend PR Sreejesh expressed shock after his abrupt removal as junior men's coach, despite leading the team to five podium finishes in five tournaments, including a World Cup bronze. He revealed Hockey India's preference for foreign coaches, citing the senior team's chief coach's recommendation, questioning the development of Indian talent.

Hockey legend PR Sreejesh publicly challenged Hockey India's decision not to renew his junior coaching contract, questioning the federation's development program and its heavy reliance on foreign coaches. He expressed concern over the perceived demotion from chief coach to goalkeeper coach, sparking a high-profile dispute over opportunities for Indian coaching talent.

Hockey India clarified that legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh's tenure as junior men's coach concluded as per contract, denying claims of him being "fired." The federation stated his position was advertised and a new coach selected on merit. An alternative development role was offered but declined. Hockey India emphasised its commitment to developing Indian coaches.

Portugal have officially announced their final squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and the biggest talking point is the inclusion of legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo. At 41 years old, Ronaldo is preparing for what is expected to be his sixth and final World Cup appearance. The squad was confirmed by manager Roberto Martinez as Portugal aim to win football’s biggest prize for the first time in history.

Fans are criticizing BigHit Music after BTS was reportedly credited on Jungkook’s solo FIFA World Cup song Dreamers. Many argued that Jungkook alone created and performed the track, calling the move unfair to his solo achievements. The backlash grew amid fresh buzz about BTS potentially performing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup halftime show, reigniting conversations about solo recognition, group branding, and BigHit’s marketing strategy surrounding Jungkook’s global success.

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has suffered a huge setback ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 23-year-old fractured the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during FC Barcelona’s 3-1 La Liga win over Real Betis on Sunday, May 17. The injury forced him off at half-time at Spotify Camp Nou and it immediately raised fears over his fitness for the tournament.

FIFA confirmed ongoing discussions for media rights in India for the 2026 World Cup, with no official broadcaster yet announced. The Delhi High Court has issued notices regarding the broadcast, as talks in other territories like China also remain unsettled. Fans await confirmation on television and digital platform coverage for the expanded tournament.

Brazil's World Cup squad named by Carlo Ancelotti includes a fit-again Neymar but leaves out Chelsea striker João Pedro despite his strong club form. Ancelotti cited Neymar's improving fitness, tournament experience, and leadership as key factors. Pedro, 24, reportedly paid the price for inconsistent performances in a Brazil shirt. Andrey Santos and Thiago Silva also miss out. Brazil open their World Cup campaign on June 13 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium.

Kylian Mbappe’s difficult start at Real Madrid has taken another dramatic turn after the French superstar publicly claimed he had been reduced to a “fourth-choice” role under interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa. The shocking comments came after Madrid’s 2-0 win over Real Oviedo, where Mbappe was again left out of the starting lineup.

Neymar became emotional after Carlo Ancelotti included him in Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad despite recent fitness concerns. The Santos star broke down in tears while celebrating with family and told his father, “We did it, Dad.” Neymar also called teammate Raphinha, saying, “We are gonna win this.” The 34-year-old now prepares for his fourth World Cup appearance as Brazil chase another historic title.

Katy Perry’s announcement as the headline performer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony has sparked major backlash online. Many soccer fans criticized FIFA’s decision and threatened to boycott the event, calling the singer too controversial for such a global stage. Social media quickly filled with angry reactions, with some viewers mocking the choice and demanding a different performer. Despite the outrage, Perry is still scheduled to perform at SoFi Stadium before the United States faces Paraguay.

Indian-Origin Players, Gujarati Coach Shape Cricketing Journey