Potter says 'harsh' defeat will make Sweden better

Sun, 21 Jun, 2026

Potter says 'harsh' defeat will make Sweden better

Houston: Head coach Graham Potter said his Sweden team will learn and be better for their 5-1 FIFA World Cup 2026 defeat by a rampant Netherlands on Saturday.

The Swedes beat Tunisia by the same scoreline to launch their campaign but came crashing back down to Earth in Houston.

Potter's men, who would have reached the last 32 with a win, were 4-0 down after two goals each from Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo. Anthony Elanga pulled one back before Crysencio Summerville put the seal on a five-star display for Ronald Koeman's side.

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Group F: Netherlands 5-1 Sweden

Sun, 21 Jun, 2026

Group F: Netherlands 5-1 Sweden

Houston: Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey both scored twice as the rampant Netherlands thrashed Sweden 5-1 in a FIFA World Cup 2026 warning on Saturday in Houston.

The big win in front of nearly 69,000 put the delighted Dutch on the cusp of the knockout rounds and gave them liftoff after being held by Japan.
 
Ronald Koeman's side top Group F with four points from two games, ahead of Sweden on three, Japan (one) and Tunisia (none).

Australia failed to match USA, admits Popovic

Sat, 20 Jun, 2026

Australia failed to match USA, admits Popovic

Seattle: Head coach Tony Popovic admitted Australia were below par in their 2-0 defeat to the United States in their FIFA World Cup 2026 tie on Friday.

While the win confirmed the US' spot in the knockout stage, defeat left Australia with work to do against Paraguay in their concluding Group D tie on Thursday.

Preview - Group G: Belgium v IR Iran

Sun, 21 Jun, 2026

Preview - Group G: Belgium v IR Iran

Inglewood: Islamic Republic of Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei will look to eradicate the defensive mistakes that cost his side in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against New Zealand when they take on Belgium in their second Group G clash in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Central Asian side were twice forced to come from behind to salvage a 2-2 draw with New Zealand and Ghalenoei is determined to ensure there is no repeat of the issues in Los Angeles last Monday.

Preview - Group H: Spain v Saudi Arabia

Sun, 21 Jun, 2026

Preview - Group H: Spain v Saudi Arabia

Atlanta: Saudi Arabia will be aiming to build on their encouraging start when they face Spain in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H tie at Atlanta Stadium on Sunday.

Georgios Donis’ side opened their campaign with a hard-earned 1-1 draw against Uruguay, a result that showed their discipline, resilience and ability to stay in the contest against high-quality opposition.

Spain, meanwhile, were left frustrated after being held to a goalless draw by Cabo Verde. Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled possession but lacked the cutting edge needed to break down a disciplined defensive block, something Saudi Arabia will be looking to exploit.

Hong urges Korea Republic to look forward

Fri, 19 Jun, 2026

Hong urges Korea Republic to look forward

Zapopan: Head coach Hong Myung-bo urged his Korea Republic players to forget about a missed opportunity but instead focus on advancing to the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

A 1-0 defeat to Mexico on Thursday meant the co-hosts confirmed not only the Group A top spot but also became the first side to confirm their Round of 32 spot while Korea Republic will have to beat South Africa to be absolutely sure of advancing.