
The Athletic’s Daily World Cup Predictions: Matchday 17 Recap and Upcoming Showdowns
A look at how England clinched a round‑of‑32 berth, how an algorithm narrowed the gap with pundits, and what to expect from the next set of high‑stakes fixtures.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Real Madrid across Soccer, Football, Basketball.

A look at how England clinched a round‑of‑32 berth, how an algorithm narrowed the gap with pundits, and what to expect from the next set of high‑stakes fixtures.

The annual FIFA Best XI highlights the season's standout performers, featuring emerging talents from Spain, England and Portugal alongside seasoned veterans marking their swan songs on the world stage.

A flurry of bids, contract talks and international overtures define the latest movement across Europe's top leagues.

U.S. Soccer weighs extending Mauricio Pochettino through the 2030 World Cup, balancing a historic coaching legacy with the pressures of a global tournament.

Brazil and Japan meet again in the World Cup’s second round, this time with Ancelotti’s side aiming to overturn a 3-2 loss while Japan contends with key injuries.

The 2026 World Cup is on track to shatter previous goal records, with 121 goals scored in the first 40 matches. A faster, more stable ball and a 48‑team field are reshaping the tournament’s offensive dynamics.

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo added another milestone to his international career, reaching six World Cup tournaments and reshaping Portugal's all‑time scoring record.

When DoorDash mistakenly wished rapper T‑Pain success at the 2026 World Cup, confusing him with little‑known soccer star Tim Payne, the mishap sparked a clever campaign that turned a slip‑up into a celebration of both music and the beautiful game.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the sixth minute of Portugal’s match against Uzbekistan, becoming the first player to find the net in six different World Cup tournaments.

Four pre‑season friendlies featuring Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Liverpool, Barcelona and Napoli have turned Michigan Stadium into a global soccer destination, setting attendance records and showcasing legendary players.

Gareth Bale reflects on his career, discusses his partnership with Juggernaut Capital Partners to invest in women’s sports, and shares insights on modern football, Jose Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur’s outlook.

Dr. Suzanne Huurman makes history at the 2026 World Cup, leading Curacao’s medical team while advocating for flexible work policies and a future where women are fully represented in football’s highest echelons.

A controversial dismissal in the World Cup sparked debate over a new FIFA regulation, with Paraguay's coach warning of its impact on the game's essence.

Liverpool's ambitious €100m offer for teenage Ivorian winger Yan Diomande was turned down by RB Leipzig, sparking a broader conversation about the soaring fees for young talent.
A 6‑0 win for Canada against Qatar turned tragic when midfielder Ismaël Koné suffered a broken leg, prompting a red card for Qatari defender Assim Madibo and raising questions about the tournament's emerging storylines.

From Jude Bellingham’s Madrid dominance to Vinícius Júnior’s flair and the historic milestones of emerging African and diaspora players, the 2026 World Cup promises a new wave of brilliance.

Turkey and Paraguay each need a win in Santa Clara to keep their World Cup hopes alive after opening defeats.

Cape Verde's historic World Cup appearance ended in a 0-0 draw against Spain in Atlanta, showcasing a disciplined low block and a standout performance by goalkeeper Vozinha that frustrated a dominant Spanish side.

Spain dominated possession but could not find a way past a disciplined Cape Verde defense, as the newcomers secured a point that underscored their tactical discipline.

In a tightly contested Group H encounter, Cape Verde earned a historic 0-0 draw against Spain, showcasing a disciplined low block and a standout performance from veteran goalkeeper Vozinha.

The 2026 World Cup will see France and Senegal collide in a clash that stretches back to their first encounter in 2002, when the African side shocked the European powerhouse. The memory of that victory still fuels Senegal’s ambition as they aim for a deep run in the tournament.

From the United States' commanding win to debates over referee Omar Artan and critiques of UEFA's expansion plans, the opening weekend set a turbulent tone for the tournament.

At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo aims for a World Cup victory that would complete a career defined by unprecedented goal records and longevity.

Brazil laboured against Morocco in their opening World Cup match, with Vinicius Junior rescuing the team and Carlo Ancelotti making halftime changes that sparked a modest recovery. Persistent questions remain over the midfield and defensive setup.