
World Cup 2026: Early Upsets, Comebacks and a $5 Billion Betting Boom
Live updates from the 2026 FIFA World Cup highlight early shocks, star comebacks, and a record‑breaking betting surge.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Gianni Infantino across Soccer, Football.

Live updates from the 2026 FIFA World Cup highlight early shocks, star comebacks, and a record‑breaking betting surge.

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.

Paraguay edged Turkey 1-0 in a tense World Cup encounter, with Matías Galarza’s early strike and Miguel Almirón’s dismissal shaping a group‑stage climax.

A red card for covering his mouth during a World Cup match has reignited discussion on a recently introduced disciplinary rule.

The Russian national team is barred from major tournaments, yet its players seek abroad moves, the Premier League loses value, and debates over reintegration intensify.

Australian supporters have turned the build‑up to their World Cup showdown with the United States into a flashpoint, unleashing a series of chants that openly criticize Donald Trump. The remarks echo recent revelations from the U.S. Justice Department that have revived questions about the former president’s alleged connections to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender now deceased under controversial circumstances. The controversy comes at a time when the tournament is set to unfold across three North American host nations — the United States, Mexico and Canada — adding a layered backdrop of geopolitical attention. The United States men’s national team, fresh from a 4‑1 win over Paraguay, will meet Australia in Seattle, a match that could decide the group’s top spot. Donald Trump is slated to take a prominent place during the final’s trophy presentation, a role that has drawn both curiosity and criticism. His longstanding rapport with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has only intensified the scrutiny, especially as the Justice Department’s recent filings have reignited public debate over his past associations. World Cup statutes explicitly prohibit political messaging in the stands, leaving officials to decide whether to intervene. While the competition’s organizers have emphasized a focus on sport, the incident underscores how quickly a football fixture can become entangled with broader political narratives. On the field, Australia’s recent 2‑0 victory over Turkey, secured by goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe, has bolstered their confidence, while the U.S. side’s dominant performance against Paraguay showcased depth and attacking flair. Both teams now eye a decisive encounter that could shape the tournament’s trajectory. Whether the chants will fade once the whistle blows or continue to echo through the stadiums remains to be seen, but the episode has already added a provocative layer to what promises to be a highly anticipated clash.

The York Revolution canceled its Pride Night game after some players refused to wear Pride jerseys, yet still donated $10,000 to the Rainbow Rose Center and organized related activities, sparking a wider debate about personal belief, league policies, and inclusive representation in sports.

The Iranian football federation is set to lodge a complaint with FIFA over travel arrangements that have left the squad facing unequal conditions and logistical setbacks during the World Cup.

A dominant performance sees Canada secure its first World Cup victory with a 6‑0 triumph over Qatar, featuring a hat‑trick, multiple goals, and key figures from the sport and government.

The controversy surrounding Lionel Messi’s diplomatic appearance with Inter Miami CF reveals how football in Argentina intertwines with democracy, class and national identity, while contrasting the apolitical stance of the current star with the politically charged legacy of Diego Maradona.

The Iranian national team faces a cascade of logistical hurdles in the United States, from denied entry for key players to criticism of the administration's travel restrictions, prompting calls for reform and highlighting Mexico's contrasting hospitality.

Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi delivered unforgettable performances that set new records and marked milestones in World Cup history.

The Iranian squad’s World Cup campaign has been marred by visa denials, sudden relocations and limited support, casting a shadow over their participation.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani talks about his lifelong love of soccer, his Arsenal allegiance, and the steps he’s taking to make the World Cup affordable for New Yorkers.

Former president Donald Trump will present the World Cup trophy at a New Jersey ceremony, a move that follows his puzzling appearance at a Chelsea FC trophy lift and raises questions about protocol and political symbolism.

Following a 2‑2 draw with New Zealand, Iran’s manager revealed that FIFA‑mediated promises offered little relief as the squad was abruptly ordered to leave California, raising questions about player welfare and the tournament’s logistics.

Iranian supporters at SoFi Stadium navigated bans on flags and hydration, turning a soccer match into a stage for dissent.

From New York’s historic NBA win to World Cup matches watched in Santa Barbara, the world is united by sport.

An investigation into ticket pricing for the 2026 World Cup reveals steep costs, regulatory scrutiny, and calls for reforms to protect genuine supporters

From a Brooklyn basement to outfitting national teams, Capelli Sport’s rise illustrates how targeted design and direct deals are reshaping sports apparel.

FIFA has proposed an Israel versus Palestine under‑15s match to open its inaugural youth football festival in the United States, inviting all 211 member associations to participate in a tournament designed to promote peace and development.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in the United States has become a stage for political power, with visa denials and travel restrictions affecting players, referees and journalists, while a Somali official’s return home sparks a hero’s welcome.

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.

The United States has barred Palestinian Football Association head Jibril Rajoub from entering the country for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sparking a rebuke that echoes earlier U.S. restrictions on tournament delegates.