Son keeping 'fired-up' teammates calm ahead of kick-off

Mexico City: Korea Republic captain Son Heung-min said his teammates were so excited about their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Czechia he could "feel it in their eyes".

Preview - Group A: Korea Republic v Czechia

Zapopan: Korea Republic will be determined to kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with victory against Czechia when the sides meet in Group A on Thursday.

Asian Stars to watch

Kuala Lumpur: Asia will be represented by nine teams at the expanded FIFA World Cup 2026 which kicks off on Thursday.

5 Asian FIFA World Cup Heroes 

Kuala Lumpur: Over the years a number of Asian players have produced the goods at the FIFA World Cup, lighting up arenas around the globe and providing incredible moments that have gone down in the Continent’s footballing folklore. 

Saudi Arabia extend unbeaten run; Iraq go down to Venezuela

Kuala Lumpur: Saudi Arabia played to a goalless draw with Senegal while Iraq fell to a 2-0 defeat to Venezuela in international friendlies ahead of their respective FIFA World Cup 2026 opening fixtures.

Gakpo denies Uzbekistan

New York: Uzbekistan suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands in a closed-door FIFA World Cup 2026 warm-up at Icahn Stadium on Monday, with Cody Gakpo converting a decisive penalty with virtually the final kick of the game.