Spain's De la Fuente cool despite Cabo Verde setback

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Spain's De la Fuente cool despite Cabo Verde setback

Atlanta: Spain boss Luis de la Fuente said he is still convinced La Roja will go far at the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite failing to break down debutants Cabo Verde in a 0-0 draw to open their tournament.

The European champions badly missed the spark of Lamine Yamal, who was deemed only fit enough for a second-half cameo on his return from injury, as they struggled to even create chances against a side ranked 67th in the world.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/3178538

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Preview - Group K: Uzbekistan v Colombia

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Preview - Group K: Uzbekistan v Colombia

Ciudad de Mexico: Uzbekistan will be determined to kickstart their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group K campaign with a positive result when they take on Colombia on Wednesday.

After more than three decades of striving to reach the global stage, the White Wolves are set to make their FIFA World Cup debut, carrying the hopes of an entire nation.

Mixed feelings for Japan's Moriyasu

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Mixed feelings for Japan's Moriyasu

Arlington: Hajime Moriyasu admitted he had mixed feelings following Japan's 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F tie on Sunday.

While pleased with the resolve shown by his players to salvage a point after twice going behind, the Japanese tactician the target going into the tie was achieving victory.

Group I: France 3-1 Senegal

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Group I: France 3-1 Senegal

East Rutherford: Kylian Mbappe scored twice as France launched their bid for a third FIFA World Cup crown with a 3-1 victory over Senegal in Group I on Tuesday.

Real Madrid star Mbappe took his career World Cup goals tally to 14 - just two behind all-time leader Miroslav Klose - and Bradley Barcola was also on target as Les Bleus secured all three points for Didier Deschamps' side.

Belgium disappoint Garcia

Wed, 17 Jun, 2026

Belgium disappoint Garcia

Seattle: Head coach Rudi Garcia challenged his Belgium players to get on the winning track in their next match after settling for a 1-1 draw with Egypt in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match on Monday.

The European side equalised through Mohamed Hany's own goal in the 66th minute after he diverted Romelu Lukaku's cross, with Egypt ​having taken the lead in the 18th minute through Emam Ashour.

Cabo Verde hero Vozinha sheds 'tears of resilience' after stopping Spain

Tue, 16 Jun, 2026

Cabo Verde hero Vozinha sheds 'tears of resilience' after stopping Spain

Atlanta: Spain failed to find a way past inspired Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha as the 40-year-old secured a stunning 0-0 draw for the FIFA World Cup debutants and was reduced to tears at his heroics.

La Roja rolled into Atlanta as one of the pre-tournament favourites with head coach Luis de la Fuente boasting that he has the best squad in the competition.