The Exploding Heads break down the recent World Cup playoffs as all 32 teams are now set for Russia. Two-hundred and sixty-four days elapsed between Brazil doing it and Peru doing it. But when it happens is relatively immaterial. It’s all about getting in, like getting a table in the roped-off VIP area of the
World Cup Qualifying
Gab Marcotti is given the floor to share his true feelings on Italy’s failure to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Alexis Sanchez and Gareth Bale headline a host of big names who will be absent from next summer’s World Cup after Chile and Wales failed to qualify for the tournament. Italy were the
Alexandre Lacazette scored two but Lars Stindl rescued the draw late for Germany. An emotional Neymar slams the press amid reports of rifts between himself and PSG’s Edinson Cavani and Unai Emery. Mbappe, Cavani, Neymar and more PSG stars turned into superheroes to celebrate the global release of ‘Justice League.’ Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Kevin Trapp
Zlatan Ibrahimovic helped his native club Malmo celebrate their 20th Swedish league title by presenting them with the trophy. Zlatan Ibrahimovic has said Sweden are not as good as when he played for them but will still be a match for Italy in their World Cup qualifying playoff. Manchester United striker Ibrahimovic retired from international
Alejandro Moreno and Alexis Nunes preview and predict the playoff fixtures of World Cup qualifying. With the playoff teams set in Europe, the FC crew assess which unseeded side has the best chance of reaching the World Cup. Martin O’Neill hopes his Ireland players remain injury free over the next few weeks ahead of their
Gabriel Jesus and Brazil ended Chile’s World Cup hopes with a convincing 3-0 win in Sao Paulo. Dick Advocaat praises retiring Dutch star Arjen Robben, saying the Netherlands will miss having his quality on the pitch. Jorge Sampaoli says he gets emotional coaching Lionel Messi, whom he calls the best player in history. Max Bretos,
After becoming the smallest nation to qualify for the World Cup, Iceland celebrated with their famous Viking clap. The FC crew break down how Iceland were able to make history and become the smallest country to qualify for the World Cup. Gylfi Sigurdsson and Iceland have become the smallest nation to reach the World Cup
Chile head coach Juan Antonio Pizzi insists his team will continue their usual style of play in their crucial World Cup qualifier against Brazil. Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal has said he is “gutted” to miss Chile’s key World Cup qualifier in Brazil on Tuesday but expects his side to clinch a place in Russia.
Uruguay boss Oscar Tabarez insists the side will stick with Luis Suarez, despite his current struggle in front goal. Uruguay coach Oscar Tabarez has dismissed reports that Barcelona’s Luis Suarez will need knee surgery and expects him to play in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Bolivia. Tabarez’ side are second in the CONMEBOL standings and
Alejandro Moreno recounts his experiences trying to qualify for the World Cup with the Venezuela national team. Ahead of two crucial World Cup qualifiers, Alejandro Moreno reveals his best attacking option to partner Lionel Messi. “The most difficult way of reaching the World Cup finals is via the South American group,” says Ecuador captain Antonio
The qualifying process for the 2018 World Cup, which began on March 12, 2015, is reaching its climax. In all, 31 places are up for grabs and so far, three nations have booked their place to join hosts Russia in next year’s tournament. Qualified nations: Russia (hosts), Brazil, Iran, Japan. EUROPE (UEFA; 13 PLACES) • European qualifying home
ESPN FC Global Scores Transfers Teams Leagues Cups Video More ESPN.com Search Site Terms Featured Matches Featured Matches Previous Metz Paris Saint-Germain 6:45 PM UTC Sep 8, 2017 Game Details Home: 25/1 Draw: 9/1 Away: 1/10 Odds from bet365 bet365 Lille Bordeaux 5:00 PM UTC Sep 8, 2017 Game Details Home: 6/4 Draw: 11/5 Away:
David Villa chats with ESPN FC’s Julie Stewart-Binks about NYCFC’s draw at New York Red Bulls and his Spain call-up. Spain coach Julen Lopetegui has wished David Villa a speedy recovery after the New York City FC striker suffered an injury while on international duty. The 35-year-old was recalled to the Spain squad for the
With just under a year until the 2018 World Cup, the ESPN FC panel share their early predictions for who will win it all. At the 2010 World Cup we had Paul the psychic octopus. For the 2017 Confederations Cup, it’s Achilles the Russian cat. Secretary General Fatma Samoura discusses the new anti-discrimination protocols ahead