Volpato gets Australia nod

Mon, 01 Jun, 2026

Volpato gets Australia nod

Sydney: Head coach Tony Popovic named Italy under-21 international Cristian Volpato in Australia's 26-strong squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Monday after he switched allegiance last week.

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who was born and raised in Sydney and plays for Sassuolo in Serie A, is one of two uncapped players along with Japan-based striker Tete Yengi.

https://www.the-afc.com/en/more/photo/3176450

Know your team: Qatar

Sat, 30 May, 2026

Know your team: Qatar

Kuala Lumpur: Qatar will be on a mission to stamp their march on the FIFA World Cup 26.

Appearing on the global stage on merit for the first time, the 2022 hosts will be aiming to maximise on their experience to advance past the group stage.

Asian Moments: 2010

Sat, 30 May, 2026

Asian Moments: 2010

Kuala Lumpur: We are getting closer and closer to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and as the global showpiece gets set to unveil an expanded cast of 48 teams, the-AFC.com continues its series where we revisit the performances of Asian teams over the years.

After reviewing the 2006 edition last time around, we now look at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa which was not only a monumental occasion for the African continent but also for Asia as two AFC representatives, Japan and Korea Republic, made it to the knockout rounds while Australia and DPR Korea also scripted the history of their own. 

Switzerland too strong for Jordan

Mon, 01 Jun, 2026

Switzerland too strong for Jordan

St. Gallen: Switzerland proved too strong for Jordan as the European side sailed to a 4-1 win in an international friendly on Sunday.

Both teams are in the final stages of their preparation for the FIFA World Cup 26, with debutants Jordan to feature in Group J alongside defending champions Argentina, Algeria and Austria.

Ogawa strike helps Japan edge Iceland

Sun, 31 May, 2026

Ogawa strike helps Japan edge Iceland

Tokyo: Japan scored a late goal through substitute Koki Ogawa to beat Iceland 1-0 in Tokyo on Sunday in their final friendly before the FIFA World Cup 26.

Ogawa pounced in the 87th minute to send Japan to the United States, Canada and Mexico on a high in front of over 60,000 fans at the National Stadium.

Son on the double as Korea Republic cruise past Trinidad and Tobago

Sun, 31 May, 2026

Son on the double as Korea Republic cruise past Trinidad and Tobago

Los Angeles: Son Heung-min ended his goal drought with a double as Korea Republic warmed up for the FIFA World Cup 26 by defeating Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in a friendly on Saturday.

The 33-year-old has faced growing questions about his faltering form after scoring only twice for his club Los Angeles FC this season.