The Asian Challenge: How it stands

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

The Asian Challenge: How it stands

Los Angeles: The FIFA World Cup 2026 enters the final round of group stage matches from Wednesday with some teams having already confirmed their knockout stage spots.

Several of Asia's challengers, however, have work to do if they are to advance and the-AFC.com takes a look at where the continent's nine representatives stand.

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Sellami: Inexperience cost Jordan

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Sellami: Inexperience cost Jordan

Santa Clara: Jamal Sellami admitted inexperience was the major reason for Jordan's 2-1 defeat to Algeria in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J tie on Monday.

The tournament debutants took the lead through Nizar Al Rashdan in the 36th minute but Algeria hit back in the second half through Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri, with the defeat consigning Jordan to an early exit.

Arnold confident Iraq can still progress

Tue, 23 Jun, 2026

Arnold confident Iraq can still progress

Philadelphia: Graham Arnold refused to accept that Iraq's dream was dashed despite their 3-0 defeat to France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday.

A second consecutive loss means Iraq's hopes are hanging by a thread in Group I, with even victory against Senegal on Friday may not be enough to take them into the Round of 32.

Golden Boot battle steals the show

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Golden Boot battle steals the show

Kansas City: Usually a subplot, the race for the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot is one of the main talking points at the 2026 tournament as the top marksmen set a blistering pace.

The overall record has already been broken by Argentine superstar Lionel Messi, who now has 18 goals over six FIFA World Cups after adding five in two games in the United States.

But he is being chased hard by Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland - who have four goals apiece - with Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Kane also in the mix.

Bellingham rues England's 'second game fever'

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Bellingham rues England's 'second game fever'

Foxborough: Jude Bellingham said England suffered a recurrence of "second game fever" as they were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Ghana at the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Tuesday.

Nico O'Reilly hit the bar late on and Harry Kane blazed over the rebound as Ghana's dogged defensive display forced England to settle for a point in the Group L game in Foxborough.

They were perhaps fortunate to avoid a worse outcome after Ezri Konsa's clumsy challenge on Ghana forward Prince Adu in the area went unpunished.

Ronaldo delights in silencing critics

Wed, 24 Jun, 2026

Ronaldo delights in silencing critics

Houston: Cristiano Ronaldo declared "I'm back" and said those "attacking" him should never write him off after making FIFA World Cup history in a 5-0 defeat of Uzbekistan on Tuesday in Houston.

The 41-year-old, under pressure to deliver after a barren recent run at major tournaments, pounced after six minutes to become the first player to score in six FIFA World Cup campaigns.

He added a second with a smart finish before half-time as Roberto Martinez's side revived their campaign.