“It’s shameful letting us play such an important competition, where a lot of champions take part, with a ball like this”—Gianluigi Buffon. The World Cup in 2010 was one of the most incredible events in modern history. Taking place in South Africa, it would be the first time that an African nation hosted this major…
As qualifying for the 2026 World Cup begins, so does a new era for England. The country’s first-ever German head coach, Thomas Tuchel, will take charge of his first games. The former Chelsea manager’s appointment opens the door to those keen to stake their claim for the 26-man squad.
It’s hard to imagine football, a sport known for bringing people together, igniting an actual war. But in 1969, that’s exactly what happened between El Salvador and Honduras in what became known as the Football War. While the matches during the 1970 World Cup qualifiers were the spark, this was no ordinary clash between rival…
Costa Rica is no stranger to producing footballing talent, but even the most passionate fans were pleasantly surprised to see two familiar names alongside the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Lamine Yamal, Jorrel Hato, and Archie Gray on the CIES Football Observatory’s list of teenagers with the most senior minutes worldwide. Among global football’s emerging stars,…
Paul Gascoigne, one of England’s most enigmatic and gifted footballers, has always been a magnet for drama, controversy, KFC and the unexpected. His career, full of dizzying highs and painful lows, took many unpredictable turns. But few were more bizarre than his short-lived and surreal stint in the remote province of Gansu, China. Yes, the…
Football is no stranger to transformation, and one of its most notable evolutions has emerged from a position that often goes unnoticed until it saves the day: the goalkeeper. Traditionally the last line of defence, the goalkeeper’s role has significantly shifted in recent decades. And much of that shift can be attributed to the pioneering…
Irish ties with Italy go deeper than your local chipper. Especially in football. Besides Giants Stadium at U.S.A. ’94 and Giovanni Trapatoni, there have been a number of Irish internationals who have plied their trade in the Bel Paese over the years. Recent years have seen an influx of Irish starlets to Italian clubs so…
Gareth Southgate is leaving a greater legacy as England manager than you think. His achievements should not be forgotten.
Switzerland has emerged as one of the biggest underdogs in EURO 2024. But can they maintain and continue their story against England?
England at EURO 2024 all seems like a familiar story. The “favourites” have not been at the races and haven’t looked great in their opening fixtures.
