MD1: The Asian goals

Thu, 18 Jun, 2026

MD1: The Asian goals

Los Angeles: Matchday One of the FIFA World Cup 2026 concluded with all nine Asian teams having done their best to shine on the global stage.

While there were highs and lows for the continent's representatives, all nine sides found the back of the net in matches against top-quality opponents.

The-AFC.com rewinds the Asian goals and invites you - the fans - to tell us which is your favourite.

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Kamada: Japan on the right track

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Kamada: Japan on the right track

Arlington: Daichi Kamada believes Japan’s battling performance in their 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their Group F opener in Dallas at the FIFA World Cup 2026 is another sign of the progress that has been made by the Samurai Blue over the last four years.

Kamada scored his side’s all-important 88th minute equaliser on Sunday to salvage a point against the former European champions and ensure a positive start to the campaign for Hajime Moriyasu’s side.

Valiant Jordan make Sellami proud

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Valiant Jordan make Sellami proud

Santa Clara: Head coach Jamal Sellami said there was no shame in defeat for Jordan in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Austria on Tuesday.

The tactician said the 3-1 scoreline didn't do justice to the effort his players had put in, with Jordan making their FIFA World Cup debut at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.

Iraq's Arnold remains confident despite Norway setback

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Iraq's Arnold remains confident despite Norway setback

Foxborough: Head coach Graham Arnold is confident Iraq can reignite their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign after falling to a 4-1 defeat to Norway on Tuesday.

Aymen Hussein's equaliser gave rise to hope that Iraq would be able to take something from the Group I tie but Erling Haaland's brace, Leo Ostigard's header and an own goal by Hussein sealed the points for Norway.

Norway coach hails reliable Haaland

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Norway coach hails reliable Haaland

Foxborough: Norway head coach Stale Solbakken said Erling Haaland proved the FIFA World Cup "wasn't too big" for him as the star striker scored two goals in the 4-1 win over Iraq on Tuesday.

The Manchester City forward gave Norway the lead in their first appearance at a major tournament in 26 years and put them ahead again late in the first half after Iraq had equalised in the Group I tie in Boston.

Mendy: Lack of concentration cost Senegal

Thu, 18 Jun, 2026

Mendy: Lack of concentration cost Senegal

East Rutherford: Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy said his side had paid for taking their eye off the ball at critical moments in the 3-1 defeat by France in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Tuesday.

The Senegalese regretted not taking their chances in the first half as France found their rhythm and a double by Kylian Mbappe and a goal by Bradley Barcola saw them comfortably home in the Group I clash in East Rutherford. Ibrahim Mbaye was on the mark for Senegal.