Category: FIFA WORLD CUP 2026

Morocco's Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi was impressive in World Cup debut against Brazil

Ayyoub Bouaddi stole the show on Saturday with a strong performance in his first World Cup game at MetLife Stadium. Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who had complete faith in the young talent, was not surprised by his calm midfield performance.

Sofascore reports that teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi made a spectacular worldwide debut by anchoring Morocco’s midfield against five-time winners Brazil with a stunning 87 touches and 60 precise passes.

With an exciting 1-1 draw, Morocco’s first game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to a close. At the 21st minute Ismael Saibari pulled the Atlas Lions ahead only for Vinícius Júnior to draw Brazil just eleven minutes later.

Coming only months after he played for France at the Under-21 level in March, following years in the French youth system, this game was important for Bouaddi as it signalled his senior international debut.

Based on post-match statistics from Sofascore, the 18-year-old midfielder sparkled, leading Morocco with three successful dribbles, 60 accurate passes, and 87 touches. His great debut enabled Morocco to compete against one of the most famous clubs in soccer.

Bouaddi showed control during the game, first taking the lead over Casemiro in the first half, then dominating the midfield versus Fabinho following the break.

Ouahbi told reporters later, “it wasn’t a gamble to start him at just 18.” I pay just attention to players’ performances, not their age. If a player performs well, whether they are 35 or 17, they will play. He also stressed that starting Bouaddi was a confident choice based on the skills of the young player.

The Morocco coach said that starting Bouaddi was a deliberate decision as he was sure the young player would rise to the occasion against Brazil; he rejected the idea of a bold pick. I won’t run away from playing younger players. We knew he would do well, thus it was not at all risky. That wasn’t the kind of game for risking against Brazil.”

Tonight, Ayyoub Bouaddi was unusually composed. One user said, “An underrated performance and our Man of the Match.” Another called him “super exceptional,” emphasising his amazing “composure and passion.”

On June 19 in Foxborough, the Atlas Lions hope to keep this momentum going against Scotland; five days later, there is a final group-stage match against Haiti in Atlanta.

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi confident ahead of Brazil match
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi confident ahead of Brazil match

The North African team from Morocco, who reached the semi-finals in Qatar in 2022, is eager to demonstrate their skills on the global stage, as expressed by their captain, Achraf Hakimi.

At New York New Jersey Stadium later this evening, Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil will take on New York’s Atlas Lions. Confident leading up to the game are head coach Mohamed Ouahbi and captain Achraf Hakimi

One of the group stage highlights of the FIFA World Cup 2026, this match will be. Though Ancelotti’s debut World Cup™ as a coach will take centre stage, many are also interested in whether Morocco can replicate their strong Qatar showing.

Both teams are now at ground zero. Achraf Hakimi, the captain, thinks this is accurate. Though Morocco has only five World Cup victories, compared to Brazil’s five championships, he discounted the notion that they were underdogs.

Hakimi commented, “In a game like this, in a tournament like the World Cup, there are no favourites.” “That’s half and half. It boils down to the minute details and which team is more efficient. That will be us, fingers crossed. 

The current surge of Morocco in international football gives Hakimi his confidence. Their Qatar performance has enabled them to keep developing.

Mohamed Ouahbi, the coach, also feels good about the team’s attitude. Having won the U-20 tournament last September, this will be his first time leading Morocco in a FIFA men’s competition. “We believe in the players and the work we’ve done,” he added. The games will tell us where we are.

Morocco has never played South American teams in the first FIFA World Cup games and has not won any of them. In their most recent match against a South American team, they fell 3-0 in Nantes to Brazil in 1998.

Brazil knows Morocco has come a long way since then. Vinicius Júnior said, “Morocco has definitely improved a lot.” They are well managed and able to rival anyone. The game has changed, and Morocco is in it.

Having lost 2-1 to the Atlas Lions in a friendly in March 2023, Brazil knows Morocco can be among the best teams.

Brazil in training ahead of the World Cup opener against Morocco
Brazil in training ahead of the World Cup opener against Morocco
homas Partey denied entry to Canada, unavailable for Ghana's opening World Cup game
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Thomas Partey denied entry to Canada, unavailable for Ghana’s opening World Cup game

Because Canada denied him admission, Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country’s first World Cup match in Toronto versus Panama. 

Partly, 32, has pled not guilty to seven counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in connection with accusations from four women between 2020 and 2022. Next year, he will appear in court.

FIFA verified that the Canadian government rejected his visa application. They said that the host government, not FIFA, makes visa decisions. The Canadian government website says that anyone with convictions or criminal charges could be refused admission.

A US Customs agent said Partey entered the US after obtaining a visa, even if they are aware of his continuing trial, as he has not been found guilty. They evaluate admittance on a case-by-case basis and directed inquiries about Canada’s entry rejection to that nation.

If the player is here with me, my response is simple, Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz remarked with confidence in picking Partey.

Ghana will take on Croatia on June 27 and England in their second Group L game on June 23. Partey could still play in these matches. Should Ghana place second, they could go back to Canada for the last 32 on July 2.

Partey is not the only one dealing with entrance problems. At a Chicago airport, Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned before entry was permitted; Iran had to move their base to Mexico and had further problems with visa denials.

Though he had the necessary travel documents, Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States because of suspected ties to terrorist organizations.

Cape Verde defender Sidny Cabral eyes a positive World Cup opener against Spain
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Cape Verde defender Sidny Cabral looks forward to a positive World Cup opener against Spain

Cape Verde defender Sidny Lopes Cabral has great faith in his team’s ability to compete on the biggest international scene as the Blue Sharks finish their preparations for their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup match against powerhouses Spain on Monday, 15 June. (Photo Credit Cape Verdian National team).

Following Thursday’s strenuous training session, where the team had been sharpening their concentration for their first game, the defender addressed the media. 

The debutant Cape Verde is among Africa’s ten representatives in the enlarged competition seeking to leave an immediate and long-term impact.

Exuberance About a Historic Launch

Reflecting on the atmosphere in the camp, Cabral underlined that the team’s motivation comes from enthusiasm and pride in representing their country on the biggest football platform. The defender thinks the team’s hard work is going to show.

Cabral expressed enthusiasm and said we are delighted to be here; we can’t wait to begin and create fantastic work. We are going to display a great deal of enthusiasm, energy, and aggression. We are a strong team with a great deal of quality, and we will certainly show this. Every day we are putting in a lot of effort to get better; our ultimate goal is to get to the knockout stages.

The Trabzonspor defender said the newcomers are not looking past their present test; instead, they are concentrating only on their difficult first game against La Roja.

Cabral said, “Our first game against Spain takes front stage; then we will consider Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.” We must give a solid performance and demonstrate to the world that we can match a team like Spain.

Though Spain is the clear tournament favourite going into the game, the 23-year-old says the Blue Sharks will not be afraid of their opponent’s record.

To show that we belong on this platform is our first goal. Though they are World Cup contenders, he said we will do very well against them.

A new beginning for the Blue Sharks

Cape Verde’s first-ever showing at the world championships, a historic turning point for the island country, is the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The debutante are drawn in Group H together with Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia. The Blue Sharks will start their fantasy run against Spain on Monday at 5:00 PM WAT, then take on Uruguay and Saudi Arabia in their next group matches as they try to get into the round of 32.

Julián Quiñones has written his name into history
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mexico Win World Cup Opener in Dramatic Fashion Over South Africa

At a packed Azteca Stadium, Mexico kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over South Africa.  Three players sent off made the game fierce. Mexico ended up with ten players, whereas South Africa ended up with nine.

Brazilian official Wilton Sampaio produced three cards as he dismissed South Africa’s Yaya Sithole for stopping a clear goal opportunity and Themba Zwane for slapping, then sent off Mexico’s Cesar Montes for a late foul. 

Fans of Mexico were delighted as they scored the first goal only nine minutes in. Julian Quinones shot the ball forcefully across Ronwen Williams’ legs after Erik Lira tackled Sithole.

Before halftime, Quinones nearly scored again, but his shot struck the right post. When Sithole brought down Brian Gutierrez early in the second half for a red card, things got better for Mexico.

At age 35, striker Raul Jimenez headed in Roberto Alvarado’s cross for his first World Cup goal, sealing the victory. This poignant scene moved the veteran to tears.

For the first time since hosting in 2010, South Africa was in the finals but ended the game with nine men after replacement Zwane was dismissed for hitting Alvarado.

Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora, the tournament’s youngest player, was introduced in the second half. Mexico’s Montes fouled Khuliso Mudau late in the game, but they held their two-goal lead.

Mexico is hosting the World Cup for the third time, and they got off to a fantastic start despite the late red card. The Azteca Stadium in Mexico City hosted the first game, just like it did in 1970 and 1986.

Fans loved a spirited opening event featuring Colombian singer Shakira before the game started. Ranked 14th globally, Mexico took charge against South Africa, which is ranked 46 ranks lower.

Following South Africa’s early error that resulted in a goal for Mexico, Sithole’s red card further diminished their prospects of winning. Returning to Wolves next season, Jimenez nearly scored early on, but Williams made an excellent one-handed save.

At last, he scored with a strong header in the second half, demonstrating how much this goal meant to him as he celebrated with his colleagues.

  • Mexico are now unbeaten in their last seven World Cup curtain-raisers, winning six. They beat the Republic 3-1 at the 1998 World Cup in France, Croatia 1-0 at Korea/Japan 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan, and IR Iran 3-1 at the 2006 World Cup before a 1-1 draw with hosts South Africa in 2010. 

  • Mexico returned to the victory column with a 1-0 defeat of Cameroon at Brazil 2014 and Germany. A goalless draw with Poland followed at Qatar 2022 and a 2-0 win over South Africa in 2026 USA, Canada and Mexico. 

Venue: Mexico City Stadium
Attendance: 80,824
South Africa kick off Africa's 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

South Africa kick off Africa’s 2026 World Cup campaign against Mexico

South Africa is leading the way as Africa is poised to make history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an unprecedented ten teams representing the continent, marking its largest presence ever at the tournament.

Kicking off in North America, South Africa will face co-hosts Mexico in the opening match. This is the first time African teams will have double-digit representation on football’s biggest stage.

The teams representing Africa will be Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia. This milestone follows Morocco’s impressive journey to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022, which changed global perceptions of African teams.

Africa’s World Cup journey began in 1934 with Egypt’s participation. Over the decades, representation gradually grew, with Morocco, DR Congo, and Tunisia among the first to join.

The milestone of five African teams was first achieved in 1998, and the previous record of six was set in 2010 when Ghana reached the quarter-finals.

Cape Verde’s qualification is particularly notable, as it marks their first World Cup appearance. DR Congo’s return since 1974 and South Africa’s comeback after 2010 add further excitement.

Veteran teams like Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, and Côte d’Ivoire bring valuable experience, while newcomers inject fresh energy into Africa’s challenge.

The 2026 World Cup isn’t just about numbers; it’s about turning this historic representation into record-breaking performances. With higher expectations, Africa arrives in North America with its strongest presence yet.

The journey from Egypt’s debut in 1934 to ten teams in 2026 has been long and challenging, marking a significant moment for African football and its growing ambition on the world stage.

African participation at the FIFA World Cup

1934: Egypt

1970: Morocco

1974: DR Congo

1978: Tunisia

1982: Algeria, Cameroon

1986: Algeria, Morocco

1990: Cameroon, Egypt

1994: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria

1998: Cameroon, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia

2002: Cameroon, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

2006: Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Tunisia

2010: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa

2014: Algeria, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria

2018: Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Tunisia

2022: Cameroon, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, Tunisia

2026: Algeria, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia

Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
Africa's representatives at the World Cup since 1934
Referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Mogadishu
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Referee Omar Artan received a warm welcome upon his return to Mogadishu

A warm welcome for Somali referee Omar Artan, who has returned to Mogadishu. Despite holding a diplomatic passport and a single-entry US visa, Artan was denied entry, shattering his dream of officiating at the FIFA World Cup.

“Every referee aspires to go to the World Cup,” Artan shared in an interview with BBC Somali last week, just before he departed from home. “When you’re selected, it feels like all your hard work has paid off. It’s a moment when everything falls into place. Years of effort finally find their meaning.”

Last year, Artan was recognised as the best male referee in Africa and officiated two matches at the recent Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). After being included in the list of FIFA match officials, he was hailed by the country’s President Hassan Mohamud as “a symbol of inspiration for the new generation of Somalis.”

While the Somali government is making diplomatic efforts to resolve the entry issue, Artan’s hopes of attending the World Cup seem dim as he has risen through the officiating ranks in a nation that has been marred by conflict for decades.

The US State Department informed BBC Africa that it welcomes “legitimate travelers” to the World Cup and assesses each visa application on an individual basis, following a thorough review and meticulous vetting. They also noted that “national security and public safety” play significant roles in the visa decision-making process.

Omar Artan, who was set to be the first Somali to referee at the World Cup finals, has been dropped from the list of officials after he was denied entry to the United States.
Omar Artan, who was set to be the first Somali to referee at the World Cup finals, has been dropped from the list of officials after he was denied entry to the United States.
Mexico v South Africa opener rekindles memories of 2010
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Mexico and South Africa to reprise 2010 World Cup opener in 2026

South Africa met Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg in the inaugural game of the 2010 World Cup. Mexico’s Rafael Marquez scored with only 12 minutes left on the clock, therefore stealing a draw and denying the host country a winning start.

Again, the Bafana Bafana of South Africa will open the 2026 World Cup Group A against Mexico, making their fourth tournament appearance. Though it will be a challenging first game, it offers them an opportunity to prove themselves. The team is ready for this challenge after much practice. (Photo Credit VisitMexico.com)
 

One of Africa’s ten representatives, the Bafana Bafana, head coach, has been speaking ahead of their opener. “You know, it will be a special and fantastic experience for us because my players have never played in this kind of situation before,” the coach said.

“So it will be very important for us to stick to the game plan and not listen to what is happening in the stands. We all know that there will be thousands of Mexicans inside the stadium and maybe a few South Africans.”

Previous World Cups
 
France 1988, South Korea/Japan 2002, and South Africa 2010—the Bafana Bafana have come third in their group each time. Beginning with their match against one of the hosts at City Stadium, they aim to perform better in the USA, Canada, and Mexico this year.
 
History
 
South Africa was the first African country to host a World Cup in 2010. It was also the first host nation to be eliminated in the group stage since the tournament changed to one group stage format in 1986.
 
Conversely, Mexico are the first nation to hold three World Cups—1970, 1986 and 2026. Their strongest World Cup results came in 1970 and 1986, when they were hosts and made the quarterfinals.
 
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala’s opener.
 
Mexico City Stadium
 
One well-known sports site in southern Mexico City, the Mexico City Stadium—also referred to as Azteca Stadium— has seen several famous events in football history. Renovated to be contemporary and energetic, the stadium is ready for more classic events.
 
Going to the stadium is more than just seeing a game. With merchants hawking flags, tamales, and jerseys, the scene is vibrant. Fans get together to support Mexican football.
 
Its original style combines contemporary design with legacy. The views from the stands are excellent; the refurbished interior has modern technology and comfort without compromising its historical appeal. Many World Cups have been held here, along with many songs and concerts that live on in people’s memories.
 
Though you might not be a football enthusiast, Mexico City Stadium merits a trip. You can go on guided tours to view the locker rooms, players’ tunnel, VIP sections, and even step onto the field where greats like Pelé and Maradona played. Nearby are eateries and coffee shops where you can sample real regional food.
 
A trip to Mexico City would not be complete without seeing this famous venue. It captures the country’s passion, history, and sporting spirit.
 
African Teams at the 2026 World Cup
 
The last team to qualify was the Democratic Republic of the Congo, joining famous African football powerhouses such as Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. Every one of these countries adds a great history and active soccer scene, therefore heightening the stakes of the event even further. 
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala's opener.
Both teams played to a 1-1 draw at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa after Siphiwe Tshabalala had opened the scoring for the host team at their Soccer City, Johannesburg, but a Rafael Márquez equaliser cancelled out Tshabalala's opener.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan barred from 2026 World Cup
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan barred from 2026 World Cup

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan will not feature at this summer’s World Cup after being denied entry into the United States, world soccer’s governing body FIFA confirmed on Monday.

According to several reports, a US Customs and Border Protection spokesperson said Artan received additional inspection after arriving in Miami from Istanbul. “Upon arrival in Miami from Istanbul, Artan was selected for additional inspection,” said a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokesperson. “CBP officers thoroughly inspect everyone who arrives in the United States.”

“During this process, officers determined they needed to verify additional information or determine if he would be allowed into the U.S. After completing the inspection, officers found Artan inadmissible for reasons related to vetting and denied him entry,” the statement continued.

Somalia is one of 39 countries which fall under the Trump administration’ That did not elaborate as to why Artan had been denied entry to the country, but nationals from those countries have historically faced extra screening when trying to enter the US.

Artan was recently named Africa’ best male referee in 20plusFive and had been chosen by the Confederation of African Football to referee at the World Cup this summer. A FIFA spokesperson told ESPN FC that: “FIFA is not involved in immigration procedures or visa decisions by the host country.

We have been assured that his status will not change at this point and are monitoring the situation closely. Ultimately it is up to the host government to decide who gets a visa and who is allowed into their country.”

Last month Iran also had travel problems into the United States due to tough immigration restrictions enforced by the Trump administration.

Iran football federation president Mehdi Taj told semi-official Iranian news agency ISNA that the Iranian soccer team were allowed into the US for this summer’ He said they were given permission one day before their opening game kicking off, which led to claims they were being discriminated against.

Iranian head coach Amir Ghalenoei said following the game that several management team members, along with media staff and the team’s executive director, still haven’t been granted access to attend the tournament.

Morocco and Norway end in a tie ahead of the 2026 World Cup opener
by Alie Bittar @bittar32

Morocco and Norway end in a tie ahead of the 2026 World Cup opener

An early goal from Brahim Diaz was not enough as Morocco and Norway tied 1-1 in Morocco’s last friendly before the 2026 World Cup.

Morocco started strong and skillfully moved the ball in the first few minutes at Sports Illustrated Stadium, therefore playing well. In the eighth minute, their pressure paid off when Brahim Diaz scored following excellent work from Abde Ezzalzouli.

From the start, Ezzalzouli was busy creating problems on the left wing with his quickness. His assist for Diaz demonstrated Morocco’s offensive prowess as they looked sharp.

Norway took control as the game progressed, with Erling Haaland leading the attack and Martin Ødegaard dominating midfield. Morocco faced a setback before halftime when Ezzalzouli was injured, prompting concerns among fans about his replacement, Soufiane Rahimi.

Despite this disappointment, Morocco fought hard in the second half, while Coach Mohamed Ouahbi made changes to manage player fatigue. Norway equalised in the 76th minute with Ødegaard’s goal, assisted by Oscar Bobb, resulting in a 1–1 draw.

Morocco had mixed feelings about the outcome, with standout performances from Diaz and Ezzalzouli overshadowed by injury concerns ahead of their challenging World Cup opener against Brazil on June 13.