2026 World Cup Group Stage: Underdogs and Disappointments
The 2026 World Cup group stage saw several favored nations exit early, sparking resignations and raising questions about future strategies.
Jun 28, 2026
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Roberto Martínez
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Roberto Martínez across Soccer, Football, Baseball.
Colombia Advances as Group K Winners in Goalless Draw with Portugal
Colombia topped Group K with a goalless draw against Portugal, securing a knockout matchup with Ghana while Portugal prepares for a clash with Croatia.
Jun 28, 2026
World Cup Group Stage Finale Brings Crucial Decisions on Saturday
Six decisive group stage matches conclude on Saturday, shaping the path to the 2026 World Cup knockout rounds.
Jun 27, 2026
World Cup Knockouts Ready for High‑Stakes Drama
With the last group‑stage fixtures set to conclude, teams battle for knockout spots, featuring Portugal’s showdown with Colombia, Argentina’s match without Lionel Messi from the start, and strategic calculations that could reshape the bracket.
Jun 27, 2026
Portugal Eyes Victory Over Colombia to Top Group K
Portugal and Colombia meet in a decisive Group K clash that will decide which side finishes atop the standings. Portugal arrives in Miami riding a wave of confidence after a 5‑0 thrashing of Uzbekistan, with manager Roberto Martínez confirming a fully fit squad and Rúben Dias returning to the backline. Cristiano Ronaldo, fresh from a two‑goal performance, will lead the attack, supported by Bruno Fernandes and João Félix, as Martínez prepares an aggressive 4‑2‑3‑1 system.
Jun 27, 2026
The Athletic’s Daily World Cup Forecasts Blend Expert Insight with Quirky Predictors
Yesterday’s action saw Portugal crush Uzbekistan, England hold Ghana, while Croatia and Colombia secured narrow victories; today’s schedule pits Switzerland against Canada and Scotland against Brazil, all tracked on The Athletic’s interactive Pick’Em platform.
Jun 24, 2026
Ronaldo Shines as Portugal Crushes Uzbekistan in World Cup Qualifier
Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice, becoming the first player to find the net in six World Cups, as Portugal secured a 5-0 victory.
Jun 23, 2026
Portugal Faces Crucial Test Against Uzbekistan in Houston
Portugal and Uzbekistan meet in a high‑stakes Group K World Cup qualifier in Houston, with Martínez under pressure to revive a faltering attack and key players poised for change.
Jun 23, 2026
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Swan Song: The Waning Echoes of a Football Icon
Cristiano Ronaldo's dwindling impact on the pitch contrasts with his enduring commercial pull, sparking debate over his place in Portugal's future.
Jun 22, 2026
Ronaldo’s Sixth World Cup: A Legend in Decline
Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth World Cup appearance at age 41 highlights both his enduring fame and the growing question of whether his presence hinders a talented Portuguese side.
Jun 22, 2026
Ronaldo’s Swansong: A World Cup in Decline
Cristiano Ronaldo's sixth World Cup appearance at 41 has become a quiet crisis for Portugal, where a gifted generation must navigate a manager unwilling to bench a fading legend.
Jun 22, 2026
World Cup 2026: First‑Round Shockwaves and Emerging Narratives
The opening matches of the 2026 World Cup have delivered unexpected tactical shifts, from England’s dominant second‑half surge to Portugal’s looming roster questions, painting a picture of competition that is as unpredictable as it is enthralling
Jun 18, 2026
The Athletic’s Daily World Cup Predictions Blend Expert Insight with Friendly Competition
The Athletic’s interactive World Cup prediction feature brings together writers, a subscriber, an algorithm, a dog and a six‑year‑old, offering daily forecasts across a slate of matches while recapping key moments from recent matchdays.
Jun 18, 2026
Colombia’s 3-1 Win Over Uzbekistan Highlights World Cup Momentum
Colombia secured a 3-1 victory against Uzbekistan in a World Cup match that featured decisive contributions from Luis Diaz, Daniel Munoz and Jaminton Campaz, while also marking Uzbekistan's first ever World Cup goal.
Jun 18, 2026
World Cup Matchday 6 Recap and Matchday 7 Outlook
A look at the highlights from Matchday 6, featuring Messi, Mbappe and Haaland, and a preview of the upcoming fixtures.
Jun 17, 2026
Portugal Eyes 2026 World Cup Glory as Squad Honors Late Star
Portugal’s national side, buoyed by star forward Cristiano Ronaldo and a resilient midfield, is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a clear focus on each game, while paying tribute to the late Diogo Jota.
Jun 14, 2026
High Salaries Among 2026 World Cup Coaches Reveal Global Trend
A look at the financial landscape of World Cup coaching staff, highlighting the stark pay gaps and the prevalence of overseas managers.
Jun 12, 2026
All-Class 5A/4A City League Baseball Teams Unveiled for 2026
The 2026 All-Class 5A/4A City League baseball squads have been released, showcasing top performers from Aurora and Denver schools, with Leo Royer of Denver South crowned Player of the Year.
Jun 11, 2026
Portugal and Nigeria Meet in Friendly Ahead of World Cup 2026
Portugal will host Nigeria in a Wednesday friendly, aiming for a third straight win, while Nigeria looks to build on an unbeaten run despite missing key forwards.
Jun 10, 2026
2026 World Cup Warm‑up Matches Preview
Portugal faces Nigeria, England meets Costa Rica and the U.S. takes on Paraguay in early warm‑up games, while talk of a possible 2030 appearance by Cristiano Ronaldo adds intrigue.
Jun 10, 2026
Portugal to Face Nigeria in Final World Cup Warm‑up
Portugal’s last international friendly before the 2026 FIFA World Cup pits them against Nigeria, offering a crucial chance to test a near‑full squad ahead of a busy schedule.
Jun 10, 2026
Portugal’s Football Renaissance: From 2016 Triumph to a New Generation’s Hope
An exploration of Portugal's evolving football culture, the lasting impact of the 2016 European Championship, and the generational shift that blends club loyalty with national pride.
Jun 10, 2026
Portugal’s New Generation Eyes World Cup Glory
In a recent interview, coach Roberto Martinez delves into Portugal's football heritage, the influence of legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, and the emergence of young talents ahead of the World Cup.
Jun 10, 2026
Veteran Voices Lead the 2026 World Cup
A record eight players over 40 will appear in the 2026 World Cup, including legends such as Craig Gordon, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, sparking fresh debate about age, experience and legacy.
Jun 9, 2026