World Cup Forecasts Blend Expertise and Surprise
The Athletic’s daily World Cup predictions combine seasoned analysis, youthful flair, and even a canine voice to preview key matchups and emerging storylines.
Jun 26, 2026
Person
Darren Bazeley
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Darren Bazeley across Soccer, Football.
New Zealand Eyes First World Cup Victory Against Egypt in Vancouver
New Zealand's fully fit squad, led by Elijah Just and Chris Wood, faces Egypt in a high‑stakes match on Monday night, with UK viewers tuning in on ITV.
Jun 21, 2026
Iran and New Zealand Clash in Los Angeles Amid Political Undercurrents
The inaugural World Cup Group G match between Iran and New Zealand in Los Angeles will be framed by visa challenges, a pioneering Iranian coach, and the Kiwis' quest for their first win.
Jun 14, 2026
Iran and New Zealand Clash in Los Angeles Amid Political Undercurrents
Iran and New Zealand meet in Los Angeles for a pivotal World Cup match, where political tensions, historic milestones and national ambitions intertwine.
Jun 14, 2026
England and New Zealand Prepare for Crucial Friendly Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England will host New Zealand in a Florida friendly. The match offers England a chance to rebound from a recent loss to Japan under Thomas Tuchel, while New Zealand seeks to shore up defensive frailties exposed by a heavy defeat to Haiti.
Jun 6, 2026
England and New Zealand Prepare for Crucial Friendly Ahead of 2026 World Cup
England and New Zealand will meet in a Florida friendly as both squads fine‑tune for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, with Tuchel looking to rebound from a loss to Japan and New Zealand hoping to recover from a 4‑0 defeat to Haiti.
Jun 6, 2026
Tim Payne’s meteoric rise ahead of the 2026 World Cup
From a few thousand Instagram followers to millions, Tim Payne's unexpected fame is reshaping the narrative around New Zealand's first World Cup appearance since 2010.
Jun 3, 2026
Haiti and New Zealand Prepare for Crucial World Cup Friendly
Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Haiti and New Zealand will meet in a pre‑tournament friendly that promises more than just a warm‑up. The encounter, scheduled in the United States, offers both squads a chance to fine‑tune tactics and build confidence before the global showcase.
Jun 3, 2026
Tim Payne’s Social Media Surge Ahead of World Cup Warm‑up
New Zealand defender Tim Payne’s Instagram following surged from 4,715 to 4.2 million after an Argentine influencer called for support, prompting praise from his coach and teammates as the squad prepares for a World Cup warm‑up in Florida.
Jun 2, 2026
Tim Payne’s Instagram Surge Fueled by Argentine Influencer
New Zealand defender Tim Payne’s Instagram followers jumped from 4,715 to 4.2 million in days after an Argentine influencer rallied his fans, drawing praise from his coach and drawing attention from across the sporting world.
Jun 2, 2026
Tim Payne’s Social Media Surge Ahead of World Cup
A viral call from an Argentine influencer has catapulted New Zealand defender Tim Payne into the global spotlight, drawing praise from coaches, teammates and fans alike.
Jun 2, 2026
Tim Payne’s Social Media Surge Ahead of World Cup Clash
A New Zealand defender's unexpected viral moment highlights the intersection of sport and digital fame ahead of the tournament.
May 28, 2026