Norway qualified for their first World Cup since 1998 after Erling Haaland struck again in a 4-1 ...

Norway qualified for their first World Cup since 1998 after Erling Haaland struck again in a 4-1 thumping of Italy on Sunday which sealed a spot in next summer's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.Haaland scored the decisive brace in the space of seconds at a soaking San Siro for Norway, who completed Group I with a perfect 24 points from their eight qualifying matches.Norway would have had to lose by nine goals or more in order to be overtaken by Italy for the group's only automatic place for next summer's finals in North America.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Haaland's father Alf-Inge was still an international player when Norway last competed in the World Cup 27 years ago, a tournament won by Zinedine Zidane-inspired France.And the Manchester City striker will be one of the players to watch in North America after smashing in 16 goals during qualifying.The 25-year-old is averaging more than a goal a game for club and country this season and was typically ruthless when presented with his opportunities to both put Norway ahead and then double their lead in the 78th and 79th minutes.Pio Esposito opened the scoring for Italy in the 11th minute, but once Antonio Nusa levelled with a thumping strike in the 63rd minute, there was only one team who looked like winning, and Jorgen Strand Larsen's brilliant individual goal completed the rout in stoppage time.Italy will head to the play-offs in March after finishing the group six points behind Norway following two bracing defeats to Stale Solbakken's team, and exited the San Siro field to a hail of whistles from the few home fans who had stayed until the end.Italy's bid for direct qualification was compromised from their opening match against Norway, a 3-0 defeat which ended Luciano Spalletti's reign as coach.Since Gennaro Gattuso took over, the Azzurri have performed better but there is no-one in their team of the class of Haaland, a shame for a country which has produced some of the game's best-ever players.Italy failed to qualify for the last two World Cups thanks to humiliating defeats in the play-offs to Sweden and North Macedonia, the latter coming less than a year after being crowned European champions in 2021.

Norway's captain #09 Erling Braut Haaland celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammates during the FIFA World Cup 2026 European qualification football match between Italy and Norway, at the San Siro Stadium, in Milan, on November 16, 2025.

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Haaland's Norway thumps Italy to qualify for 1st World Cup since 1998

England coach Thomas Tuchel says Jude Bellingham must accept his decisions after the midfielder e...

England coach Thomas Tuchel says Jude Bellingham must accept his decisions after the midfielder expressed frustration at being substituted near the end of a 2-0 win over Albania in World Cup European qualifying on Sunday.Bellingham had been booked in the 80th minute of the match and he was taken off four minutes later after making his first England start since June. The 22-year-old Real Madrid star put his arms in the air in frustration just after the second goal, having seen Morgan Rogers waiting to replace him on the touchline.“That’s the decision, and he has to accept the decision,” Tuchel said. “His friend is waiting on the sideline, so you need to accept it, respect it, and keep on going.”<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>“I’m going to have to review it,” said Tuchel, who has clashed before with Bellingham. “I saw that he was not happy. I don’t want to make it bigger at the moment than it is.”Tuchel praised his players involved in the campaign which saw England win all eight games with no goals conceded.“Congratulations to them, it was a pleasure to fight with them and push them from the sidelines,” he said.Although he shook hands with Tuchel before taking his seat on the bench, Bellingham's frustration will cast a cloud over England until the squad reconvene for a pair of friendlies in March.By then, Tuchel will have seen England's World Cup draw in December as they move closer to the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Some critics claim the paucity of opposition provided in Group K may have given a false impression of England's quality.But after a slow start, it has been an impressive first year for Tuchel.England are the first European country to finish a World Cup qualifying campaign of at least six matches by winning them all without conceding a goal.Runners-up at the last two European Championship tournaments, they will be among the World Cup favourites as they chase a first major trophy since 1966."I don't dare to think about a starting eleven at the World Cup because there are so many months to play," Tuchel said."I just told the guys, I think we constantly progressed throughout the three camps. This is what we wanted."Congratulations to them, it was a pleasure to fight with them and push them from the sidelines."

TIRANA, ALBANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Jude Bellingham of England reacts towards the substitutes bench during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Albania and England at Air Albania Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Tirana, Albania.

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Bellingham must accept and respect my decisions, says Tuchel

Harry Kane believes that England's current side are "as good as we've ever had" after the skipper...

Harry Kane believes that England's current side are "as good as we've ever had" after the skipper wrapped up their record-breaking World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win against Albania on Sunday.Bayern Munich striker Kane struck twice in the closing stages in Tirana to give Thomas Tuchel's team a perfect eight successive Group K victories.The 32-year-old has played in England sides that twice finished as European Championship runners-up, as well as reaching the World Cup semi-finals.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But Kane believes that Tuchel has assembled the best group during his 10 years in the national team, labelling them as one of the favourites to win the World Cup next year."I think it's as good as we've ever had," Kane told ITV. "I think when you look at the starting 11, you look at the players coming off the bench, we're going to go into the tournament as one of the favourites."We have to accept that. We've been like that now for the last few tournaments, and that's part and parcel of it."England are the first European team to go through a World Cup qualifying campaign of at least six games and winning every match without conceding a goal.They netted 22 times on the road to the United States, Canada and Mexico as Tuchel found a winning formula after a sluggish start to his reign.Kane, who has a record 78 goals for his country, knows far sterner tests lie in wait in the tournament proper.But he expects England to make a serious challenge for their first trophy since the 1966 World Cup."We've been building, we've had a great year together with the new coach, and now we look forward to obviously a big 2026," Kane said."I think we've set the standard now, especially in the last few camps, and we carried it on into this camp."It was an important win. You don't want to finish with a loss at the end of the year and then have to wait until March to play again. We can go away and enjoy this now."

TIRANA, ALBANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Harry Kane of England is challenged by Ardian Ismajli of Albania during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Albania and England at Air Albania Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Tirana, Albania.

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Kane: Tuchel's England 'as good as we've ever had'

Harry Kane put the seal on flawless England's record-setting finish to their World Cup qualifying...

Harry Kane put the seal on flawless England's record-setting finish to their World Cup qualifying campaign with a late double in Sunday's 2-0 win over Albania.Kane struck twice in the closing stages as Thomas Tuchel's made history in Tirana.After an eighth successive Group K victory, England are the first European side to go through a World Cup qualifying campaign of at least six matches with an 100 percent record and no goals conceded.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>They are the first European team to win all their World Cup qualifiers since Germany in 2018.England have not lost a World Cup qualifier in 39 games since 2009 when they were beaten 1-0 in Ukraine.They scored 22 goals and allowed none in a perfect path to next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.Spain, like England yet to concede a goal, and Norway have also won all their qualifiers. Both have one game left.England's run of 10 consecutive competitive wins without conceding a goal equals Spain's European record.The Three Lions also end 2025 with their highest win percentage in a calendar year since 1946 -- nine victories from 10 games under Tuchel featuring only one blemish in a friendly loss to Senegal in June."Nice match. I love it. Today was difficult, emotional. We were full in control, then suddenly lost some control and had to overcome difficult moments," Tuchel said."I felt we were invested but also it was difficult to break them down. It needed one little moment, a set piece or a moment of magic, to open the match."So much good stuff and quality to see the game out. Everyone is happy and they fully deserved it."Tuchel started his reign with a 2-0 win against Albania in March and the same opponents book-ended a memorable first year in charge for the German.Although England wrapped up their World Cup place in October, they followed Tuchel's demand to stay focused, beating Serbia on Thursday and dispatching obdurate Albania.Far sterner tests lie in in wait at the World Cup but Tuchel has recovered from a sluggish start to his reign to provide genuine belief that England can win a major trophy for the first time since 1966.By the time they return to action with two friendlies in March, Tuchel will know who England will face at the World Cup after the draw in Washington on December 5.<h3>Finish with a flourish</h3>Tuchel made seven changes as he brought Jude Bellingham back into the starting line-up for the first time since June after restricting him to a substitute appearance against Serbia.Although England enjoyed over 70 percent of the possession, they found it hard to carve open Albania, on an eight-match unbeaten run that ranked as their best in 15 years.Sylvinho's combative side nearly snatched a shock lead when Elseid Hysaj curled just over from the edge of the area.Left out of the October internationals, Bellingham had a point to prove to Tuchel as he fights for starting berth at the World Cup after Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers impressed in his absence.The Real Madrid midfielder's contribution was patchy until he drove forward to set up Jarrod Bowen for a low strike that Thomas Strakosha pushed around the post.Kane said on Saturday that England want to build an NFL-style playbook to help make the most of set-pieces at the World Cup.Fittingly, the England captain, a noted NFL fan, struck from a set-piece in the 74th minute.Bukayo Saka's corner was flicked into the six-yard box and Kane tapped in after Strakosha failed to gather.The Bayern Munich striker wasn't done yet and he netted again in the 82nd minute to make it 78 goals for England in 112 appearances.Marcus Rashford's cross was perfectly weighted for Kane to thump his header past Strakosha from five yards, concluding England's campaign with a flourish.

TIRANA, ALBANIA - NOVEMBER 16: Harry Kane of England celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Albania and England at Air Albania Stadium on November 16, 2025 in Tirana, Albania.

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Kane's double gives England record-setting finish on road to World Cup

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said the pressure of Monday's "knockout" 2026 World Cup qualifier...

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said the pressure of Monday's "knockout" 2026 World Cup qualifier with Slovakia will be the boost his side need after a stuttering campaign.Germany, level on points with Slovakia but ahead on goal difference, need a win or a draw to top Group A and qualify directly for next year's tournament in North America. The runners-up in the group must go through an additional playoff round in March.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Victory on Monday in Leipzig would also guarantee Germany become one of the seeded teams in December's World Cup draw in Washington. Nagelsmann has backed his side to perform with the pressure now mounting."You're bound to be a bit nervous in the morning. That's part of it, but also what makes it exciting," Nagelsmann said."If we were already through, we'd be totally relaxed. But there's something appealing about the fact we aren't."The four-time World Cup winners were the clear favourites in the group to qualify directly but fell to a 2-0 loss away to Slovakia in September, just their third-ever defeat in World Cup qualifying. Since then, injury-hit Germany have won four from four but have rarely convinced. "We'd have preferred to win in Slovakia, but we didn't. This is the situation we're in now. We can accept it," Nagelsmann said."And that's where the excitement lies in a knockout game like this, especially in the early stages. "We expect to play a good game tomorrow and to pick up all three points."For much of the qualifying campaign, Nagelsmann has been without several starters including Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Antonio Rudiger, Niclas Fullkrug and Tim Kleindienst. However, the Germans look likely to welcome back captain Joshua Kimmich and defender Nico Schlotterbeck from injury, with a decision to be made on Monday."We've got a good doctor and some good physios. They're skilled at taping (players) up tightly," Nagelsmann said.

LEIPZIG, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 16: Julian Nagelsmann head coach of Germany looks on during a training session on November 16, 2025 in Leipzig, Germany. Germany is playing against Slovakia in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifer game on November 17, 2025.

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Nagelsmann: Pressure will boost Germany in 'knockout' Slovakia clash

Portugal crushed Armenia 9-1 despite the absence of suspended talisman Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunda...

Portugal crushed Armenia 9-1 despite the absence of suspended talisman Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday to clinch qualification for the 2026 World Cup finals.Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes and Paris Saint-Germain's Joao Neves both scored a hat-trick as Roberto Martinez's side racked up a huge win in Porto to top Group F.Renato Veiga got the ball rolling for Portugal, with Goncalo Ramos and Francisco Conceicao also on the scoresheet.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>After a draw in Hungary in October and a surprise defeat in Ireland on Thursday, in which Ronaldo was sent off, Portugal wrapped up qualification at the third attempt in their final group match.They will compete in a seventh consecutive edition of the World Cup, a tournament which the Euro 2016 champions are yet to win."We always want to win in the same way -- to be convincing and control the game. It's not always possible, but today we were effective and achieved a good victory," said Fernandes.With midfielder Fernandes playing a key role throughout, Portugal made a quick start by scoring in the seventh minute.Fernandes's vicious inswinging free-kick from just outside the left side of the box was pushed onto the post by goalkeeper Henri Avagyan but Veiga was on hand to head home the rebound.The visitors shocked the hosts by scoring on their first attack to equalise, with Grant-Leon Ranos crossing for Armenia captain Eduard Spertsyan to strike.However, Portugal quickly stepped up a gear and racked up an unassailable lead. Paris Saint-Germain striker Ramos intercepted a back pass and squeezed home his country's second after rounding Avagyan.Portugal put together a tidy move for their third, with Neves blasting home from the edge of the box after being teed up by Fernandes.Neves netted a spectacular second with a free-kick which flew into the top right corner, leaving Avagyan with no chance.Fernandes netted the fifth in first half stoppage time with a low penalty after Ruben Dias was fouled.The Manchester United midfielder continued where he left off after the break, slotting home his second after being fed by Ramos.Fernandes completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot after debutant substitute Carlos Forbs was felled.Neves followed suit for Portugal's eighth goal, smashing home after Veiga headed Fernandes's cross into his path.Juventus forward Conceicao added the ninth in stoppage time to seal one of his country's biggest-ever victories."Now we can truly dream about the World Cup, I was very pleased with the players' response (after the Ireland defeat)," said Martinez."We're at the World Cup! Let's go, Portugal!" wrote Ronaldo on social media platform X.The striker could miss the start of the tournament depending on whether FIFA extend his suspension beyond the mandatory one-match ban he served against Armenia.Ireland stunned Hungary with a late winner to triumph 3-2 in the other Group F match and reach the play-offs, with Troy Parrott following up his midweek brace against Portugal with a hat-trick.

PORTO, PORTUGAL - NOVEMBER 16: Bruno Fernandes of Portugal celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Portugal and Armenia at Estadio do Dragao on November 16, 2025 in Porto, Portugal.

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Ronaldo-less Portugal smashes Armenia 9-1 to book World Cup spot

Spain made almost certain of qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable 4-0 win in G...

Spain made almost certain of qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable 4-0 win in Georgia on Saturday.Luis de la Fuente's side have won all five Group E matches and although not mathematically through to next summer's tournament, their vastly superior goal difference means it is highly unlikely that Turkey will be able to overhaul them.Spain host Turkey on Tuesday in the final group match, with Vincenzo Montella's side three points behind them after beating Bulgaria 2-0.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>For Spain not to progress to the World Cup directly from the group, Turkey would have to win by seven goals or more.La Roja were without star winger Lamine Yamal, as well as other key players in Rodri Hernandez, Dani Carvajal and Nico Williams, but still eased to victory in Tbilisi.Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot, with Martin Zubimendi and Ferran Torres extending their lead in the first half, before Oyarzabal netted again.They have all but assured a 13th consecutive World Cup berth, scoring 19 goals in the group without conceding any."We feel really good after this and we did a really good job as a team," Torres told TVE."It's not mathematical yet, we're now heading into last game to qualify ourselves for this World Cup."We can never take things for granted but we are confident in ourselves."<h3>Ruthless performance</h3>De la Fuente told his players that they were on their way to becoming "legendary" after their Euro 2024 triumph and Spain delivered a ruthless performance to make light work of the hosts.Giorgi Gocholeishvili handled Torres's effort to give away an early penalty, which Oyarzabal dispatched calmly for his 20th Spain goal, and the 100th of the De la Fuente era.Spain dominated the ball and Alex Baena hit the post before Fabian Ruiz slipped in Zubimendi to finish with aplomb for the second after 22 minutes.Oyarzabal set up Torres to strike from close range for the third as the visitors ran riot.Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili deflected Oyarzabal's shot to safety as Spain nearly grabbed a fourth before the break.Oyarzabal nodded home his second after 63 minutes from Torres's cross to put further shine on a straightforward victory."Whenever I can help in this way I'm happiest," Oyarzabal told TVE."We have to seal this qualification in the best way (against Turkey), going out to win."Pau Cubarsi deflected the ball against his own post late on as Georgia threatened to become the first side to score against Spain in the group but could not find a way through."Although we won 4-0, there are things we can do better," Arsenal midfielder Zubimendi told TVE, always seeking to improve.Defeat means Willy Sagnol's Georgia, who impressed at Euro 2024, can no longer reach the play-offs, dashing their dreams of reaching a World Cup finals for the first time.

TBILISI, GEORGIA - NOVEMBER 15: Mikel Oyarzabal of Spain celebrates his goal with Ferran Torres, Fabian Ruiz and Mikel Merino of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Georgia and Spain at Dinamo Arena on November 15, 2025 in Tbilisi, Georgia.

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Spain virtually seals World Cup qualification in Georgia romp

On a "mission" in Spain, Palestinian national team coach Ehab Abu Jazar and his players will play...

On a "mission" in Spain, Palestinian national team coach Ehab Abu Jazar and his players will play symbolic friendlies against the Basque Country and Catalan national teams in the hopes of working towards safety and freedom for their people.Dressed in a black tracksuit, whistle in mouth, Palestinian coach Abu Jazar leads the team's training session with authority at Lezama, Athletic Bilbao's training ground on Friday.On one of the pitches offered by the top-flight club he tries to prepare his players as best he can for what will be much more than just a match at the grand San Mames stadium, in front of 50,000 spectators supporting the Palestinian cause on Saturday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>As seen during the pro-Palestinian protests that heavily affected cycling's Vuelta a Espana Grand Tour this summer, there is heavy support for them in the region as they play their first match in Europe.They are 98th in the FIFA rankings, and their dream of playing in their first World Cup vanished this summer in the third round of the Asian qualifiers.Abu Jazar has lost many family members to the Israel-Hamas war and some of his relatives are still at risk, a situation always present in his thoughts."I am from the Gaza Strip, from a large family in the Gaza Strip. We have almost 200 martyrs from the family. My own house was destroyed in this war," he tells AFP."My relatives, my mother until today is still living in a tent along with my brothers, my sisters, my cousins, my neighbours, my friends, and all of Gaza. So, emotionally and psychologically, it is extremely difficult."Most of his players have never set foot in Gaza. Some play in Qatar, one in Chile, in Iceland, or in the United States.They are the last representatives of Palestinian football, devastated at all levels by two years of Israeli bombardment, described as genocide by the Spanish government, in response to Hamas's unprecedented cross-border attack on October 7, 2023.Since then, there has been no league, no functioning clubs, and hundreds of athletes have been injured or killed, including the country's most famous footballer, Suleiman Al-Obeid, 41, nicknamed the "Palestinian Pele".The Palestine Football Association said he was killed when Israel attacked civilians waiting for humanitarian aid."We are here on a mission," says coach Abu Jazar to AFP, adjusting his keffiyeh around his neck."Our message to the whole world is this -- put pressure on this occupation to stop this genocide."Despite the fragile ceasefire which came into place on October 10, the coach highlighted the continuing peril for civilians in Gaza."Death continues in Gaza to this day, famine continues in the Gaza Strip, and there is no shelter," said Abu Jazar, after Israel's relentless bombing razed much of the land."We are approaching the winter season and the tents do not protect from the cold of winter nor the heat of summer."So we are telling the entire world -- apply as much pressure as you can on this occupation, because in Palestine there is a people who deserve a state and a dignified life."We want to live with dignity and independence, and this will not happen except with the end of the occupation."The coach, like his players, hopes this charity match, with proceeds donated to Doctors Without Borders, will help increase the "pressure" on the international community to fight for lasting peace and recognition of a Palestinian state."This is the most important thing -- giving a voice to Palestinians who don't have one, and raising funds to help humanitarian organisations," said defender Yasser Hamed, born in Bilbao and trained at Athletic Bilbao."This money will help a lot, especially in rebuilding hospitals, delivering medicines, etc."Hamed, who speaks fluent Basque and Spanish, considers himself "lucky" to be able to continue living his passion, "while some Palestinians are starving.""It makes you savour every plate, and all the little things people don't notice in daily life," he continued."We have this responsibility to bring a bit of joy to our compatriots who are suffering. All of this must stop, and Palestine must finally be free."His teammate Ahmed Al-Qaq, born in the United States to Palestinian parents, hopes these matches can "open the world's eyes" to the humanitarian situation in Gaza."We are not politicians, but as players, we give people something to look forward to. Especially with everything they're going through, it gives them a glimmer of hope," explains the 23-year-old winger.And if Palestine lose, as they did against Malaysia and Algeria in recent matches?"We'll recover. It's in our genes to always get back up when we fall."

Palestinian national football team members wear the traditional Basque "txapela" (beret) as they arrive at Bilbao airport ahead of their friendly match against the Basque national team in Bilbao on November 11, 2025. On a "mission" in Spain, Palestinian national team coach Ehab Abu Jazar and his players will play symbolic friendlies against the Basque Country and Catalan national teams in the hopes of working towards safety and freedom for their people.

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Palestine men's team on 'mission' for peace in Spain trip

Nick Woltemade scored a brace to send a sluggish Germany past Luxembourg 2-0 on Friday and within...

Nick Woltemade scored a brace to send a sluggish Germany past Luxembourg 2-0 on Friday and within touching distance of direct World Cup qualification.Germany struggled against their underdog hosts -- ranked 97th in the world -- but victory kept them on track to qualify for next year's tournament in North America. The four-time World Cup winners are level on points in Group A with second-placed Slovakia, who beat Northern Ireland 1-0 at home, but have a better goal difference with one match left to play.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The top two face off in Leipzig on Monday with Germany guaranteed direct qualification if they avoid defeat.Before Friday's match, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann backed Woltemade to make a difference in Luxembourg, and the big Newcastle striker did exactly that.After scoring the only goal in a win over Northern Ireland in October -- his first in international football -- the 1.98-metre-tall Woltemade delivered again for a Germany side missing forwards Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, Niclas Fullkrug, Tim Kleindienst and Karim Adeyemi. "We weren't good in the first half. We moved the ball around too much and into situations where we put ourselves under pressure," Woltemade told Germany's RTL network after the match. "We did better in the second half," Woltemade said."I know it wasn't a pretty game but we gave our all, pushed hard and got the three points."<h3>'Punished mercilessly'</h3>Luxembourg coach Jeff Strasser lamented his side's "failure to reward ourselves" after an impressive opening period."We were punished mercilessly. A team like Germany, with that quality, takes advantage of mistakes like that," he added.A Germany return failed to spark misfiring Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz into form.He had a shot deflected over the bar in the opening half and struggled to make an impact on the game. Without a point from their opening four group stage fixtures, Luxembourg had the better chances in the first half while injury-hit Germany lacked fluency. Home winger Daniel Sinani screwed a shot just wide with 21 minutes gone and forced goalkeeper Oliver Baumann into a desperate save from a corner on the half-hour mark. A visibly frustrated Nagelsmann stormed down the tunnel at half-time and whatever he said elicited a reaction early in the second half, with Woltemade making the breakthrough four minutes after the break. Leroy Sane, playing his first match for Germany since moving to Galatasaray in the summer, cut a pinpoint cross into Woltemade's path from the right, and the Newcastle striker tapped home. Sane was key in Woltemade's second with 69 minutes gone, feeding the ball to Ridle Baku, who slid in Woltemade to scoop home. Describing his return as "an honour", Sane told RTL: "I'm happy I was able to get an assist and repay Julian's trust to some extent."

Luxembourg, Luxembourg - November 14: Nick Woltemade of Germany celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Luxembourg and Germany at Stade de Luxembourg on November 14, 2025 in Luxembourg, Luxembourg.

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Woltemade sends Germany past Luxembourg in World Cup qualifier

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Friday his squad are on their way to becoming "legendary" like...

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Friday his squad are on their way to becoming "legendary" like the players that won the country's first World Cup, in 2010, and the 2008 and 2012 European Championships.De la Fuente led La Roja to Euro 2024 glory last summer and Spain are closing in on qualification for next summer's World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.Spain visit Georgia on Saturday in a Group E qualifier and could qualify for the World Cup if they win and Turkey fail to beat Georgia in the other match.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"I wish (all the players) could all be eternalised, in the sense that they would remain, that they would stay in everyone's minds, that they would be a team like the one from 2008, 2010, 2012, which became legendary and that remains forever," De la Fuente told a news conference."I believe this team is on its way to achieving that. I think it has accomplished very important things, and many players have the opportunity to make history and leave a lasting memory in the minds of the fans."I believe that is the best reward a professional can achieve."Spain have won all four of their qualifying matches so far, scoring 15 goals and not conceding any.They will be without Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal for their last qualifiers, after releasing him from the squad following "invasive" treatment on a groin injury with his club.The Spanish football federation Tuesday said they were "surprised and upset" to learn that Yamal had already undergone the procedure and was unavailable for the national team.De la Fuente tried to calm the situation when asked about Spain's relations with Barcelona."Our relations with all the clubs are marvellous -- and everything can be improved. We try to improve in all aspects, but what we need to improve is tomorrow's performance to win tomorrow against Georgia," said the coach."The best news is all the time in the future that Lamine has with us," he continued."We need to think about the present and the future -- the present is about relying on the players we have, wonderful players, trying to win tomorrow... that is our concern."As well as Yamal, Nico Williams, Dani Carvajal and Rodri Hernandez are out injured, all key players for De la Fuente.

STUTTGART, GERMANY - JUNE 5: Luis de la Fuente head coach of Spain with Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain during the UEFA Nations League 2025 semifinal match between Spain and France at Stuttgart Arena on June 5, 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany.

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De La Fuente: Current Spain team can become 'legendary'

France captain Kylian Mbappe will miss Les Bleus' World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan this wee...

France captain Kylian Mbappe will miss Les Bleus' World Cup qualifier against Azerbaijan this weekend with an ankle injury, the French Football Federation (FFF) announced on Friday.Real Madrid attacker Mbappe, 26, scored twice in Thursday's 4-0 win over Ukraine which secured his country's place in next year's tournament but will be sidelined for Sunday's Group D game in Baku."Kylian Mbappe has felt an inflammation in his right ankle that requires tests," the FFF said.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He will undergo them today in Madrid," it added.France coach Didier Deschamps will also be without Eduardo Camavinga due to injury and the suspended Manu Kone for their final game in the campaign.

Paris, France - November 13: Kylian Mbappé of France looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between France and Ukraine at Parc des Princes on November 13, 2025 in Paris, France.

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Mbappe ruled out of France's final World Cup qualifier

Disgraced former Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales had eggs flung at him...

Disgraced former Spanish football federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales had eggs flung at him allegedly by his uncle during the presentation of his new book on Thursday in Madrid.Rubiales, convicted of sexual assault for a forced kiss on player Jenni Hermoso, appeared to be struck on the back by an egg as a man Rubiales claimed was his uncle threw three in the direction of the 48-year-old."I've found out he was my own uncle, Luis Ruben he's called. An uncle who is my age," Rubiales told news portal Periodista Digital.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He threw eggs at me because he's a deranged person, and I don't think there's any justification for it..."They've arrested him, they've taken him away and, well, we'll have to take action against him because I honestly thought he was armed."Contacted by AFP, national police stated that a Spanish man had been arrested but declined to confirm the family connection.Rubiales tried to chase after his uncle before being held back by other people at the event to present his book "Killing Rubiales".Speaking on Spanish television earlier this week Rubiales claimed he was the victim of a "sudden far-left movement" that created a "parallel reality" to capitalise on the issue surrounding his forced kiss on Hermoso.Rubiales was fined 10,800 euros ($12,500) for forcibly kissing the player during the medal ceremony after Spain won the Women's World Cup in Sydney in August 2023.The former RFEF chief insists it was consensual and his lawyer told AFP in June he would appeal the conviction at the Supreme Court after a Spanish appeals court upheld his fine.Spain's penal code dictates a non-consensual kiss can be considered sexual assault, a legal category encompassing all types of sexual violence.The kiss sparked a global uproar forcing Rubiales to relinquish his post, it saw him banned from all football-related activity for three years and plunged the federation into a prolonged period of turmoil.The affair made Hermoso, the all-time top scorer for the national women's team, an icon of the fight against sexism and macho culture in sport.

MADRID, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 13: Luis Rubiales speaks during the presentation of "Matar a Rubiales"on November 13, 2025, in Madrid, Spain. The former president of the RFEF presents his book "Matar a Rubiales" in which he tells his version of events about the non-consensual kiss to Jenni Hermoso.

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Rubiales egged at book launch, claims attacker was his 'deranged' uncle

Qatari club Al-Sadd on Thursday announced that they had hired former Manchester City and Italy bo...

Qatari club Al-Sadd on Thursday announced that they had hired former Manchester City and Italy boss Roberto Mancini as their new coach."Roberto Mancini has signed as Al-Sadd's coach for 2.5 seasons," the club posted on social media, alongside photos of Mancini, with pen in hand and also holding a club shirt with his name on the back."Benvenuto Signor Mancini," posted the club, which gave no financial details about the deal, using the Italian word for "welcome".<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 60-year-old, a former striker, has led Inter Milan and Manchester City to domestic league titles and guided Italy to the Euro 2020 crown -- played in 2021 -- during his career.His last coaching position was in charge of the Saudi Arabian national team from August 2023 until October 2024. At Al-Sadd, Mancini replaced Portuguese coach Felix Sanchez, who led the club to a record 18th Qatari league title and also a domestic cup triumph last season, but was fired in October.After nine rounds of matches, Al-Sadd are sixth in the 12-team Qatar Stars League, eight points behind leaders Al Gharafa. They are 10th in the 12-team Asian Champions League Elite western group, five points off of eighth, the last qualifying place for the knock-out rounds.

CARRARA, ITALY - APRIL 25: Roberto Mancini, former Sampdoria player and head coach of Italy, looks on prior to kick-off in the Serie B match between Carrarese Calcio and UC Sampdoria at Stadio dei Marmi on April 25, 2025 in Carrara, Italy.

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Mancini takes over as coach of Qatar's Al-Sadd

Atalanta announced the arrival of Raffaele Palladino as coach on Tuesday, following on from the s...

Atalanta announced the arrival of Raffaele Palladino as coach on Tuesday, following on from the sacking of Ivan Juric.The 2024 Europa League winners said in a statement the former Italian international had signed a contract until June 30, 2027. Palladino, 41, cut his coaching teeth at Monza, first with the youth teams before taking charge of the first team in 2022 and competing in two seasons in the top flight. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He then joined Fiorentina, finishing sixth in Serie A before surprisingly departing last July after only one season in charge. Palladino arrives at a club that has not recovered from the departure of its iconic coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who left in the close-season after nine years in Bergamo to join Roma. Struggling Atalanta have won only four matches this campaign -- two in Serie A and two in the Champions League -- out of a total of 15 played. In the league, they have lost two games in a row and lounge in 13th place after 11 rounds, with only six points separating them from the relegation zone. Atalanta said in a statement that Juric and his coaching staff had all been dismissed on Monday as they became the fourth Serie A club to change coach this season after Juventus, Genoa and Fiorentina.

TURIN, ITALY - MAY 25: Raffaele Palladino of Monza reacts during the Serie A TIM match between Juventus and AC Monza at on May 25, 2024 in Turin, Italy.

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Atalanta turn to Palladino after sacking Juric

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso on Monday called for "maximum commitment" from his side as the Azzurr...

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso on Monday called for "maximum commitment" from his side as the Azzurri's bid to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup is no longer in their hands.Italy play away in Moldova on Thursday and host Norway in Milan on Sunday. The Italians are second in Group I three points behind leaders Norway."This won't be a simple outing; I want to see maximum commitment to continue what we started in September," Gattuso told a pre-match press conference. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Against Moldova, we'll try out players who haven't had much playing time, but we have to think about ourselves and not about what Norway will do," he continued. "The match against Moldova is the most important because the one against Norway is easier to prepare for. We know that this Norwegian team can cause us problems, with their speed, their physical presence, their exceptional style of football," the former AC Milan and Napoli coach said.Italy failed to reach the last two World Cup tournaments. They are guaranteed to reach the play-offs as second in their group.And they can still mathematically finish first, and qualify directly for the next World Cup in north America, by beating Moldova and Norway. However, they would need to win by scoring a lot of goals in each match to overtake Norway, who have a significantly better goal difference. Gattuso will be without Fiorentina striker Moise Kean, who has scored six goals in his last four appearances for the national team, and was injured while playing for his club.Liverpool winger Federico Chiesa has decided against playing for Italy during the November break. Chiesa has not played for the Italy national team since the 2024 Euros.Since succeeding Luciano Spalletti, who was dismissed after the 3-0 defeat in Oslo in early June, Gattuso has revitalised Italy, who have now racked up four consecutive wins with 16 goals scored. The former AC Milan star also clarified that the training camp initially considered to prepare for the playoffs at the end of March could not take place "due to a lack of available slots in the schedule". "It's up to us to do our best by scouting players both in Italy and abroad," he added.

UDINE, ITALY - 2025/10/14: Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso seen in action during the European qualifier Fifa World Cup 2026 match between Italy and Israel at Friuli stadium. Final score; Italy 3 : 0 Israel.

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Gattuso demands 'maximum commitment' with Italy's World Cup bid on the line

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is a doubt for their World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan ...

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is a doubt for their World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein after pulling a leg muscle playing for Real Madrid, the Spanish club said on Monday.Courtois, 33, suffered an adductor injury during Madrid's goalless league draw at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.Madrid did not specify the estimated duration of the goalkeeper's absence, but Spanish press reports claimed he will be out for between 10 and 12 days.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Courtois could therefore be back for their La Liga match against Elche on November 23.Belgium will qualify for next year's World Cup if they win in Kazakhstan on Saturday.They round off their Group J campaign against Liechtenstein three days later.

Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid warms up during the LaLiga EA Sports football match between Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid at Estadio Vallecas in Madrid, Spain, on November 9, 2025.

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Courtois could miss Belgium's World Cup qualifiers

Atletico Madrid will come under new ownership after global sports investment company Apollo Sport...

Atletico Madrid will come under new ownership after global sports investment company Apollo Sports Capital (ASC) reached a deal to become the majority shareholder, the Spanish La Liga club announced on Monday. The deal was announced after ASC reached an agreement with the club and their main shareholders, Miguel Angel Gil Marin, Enrique Cerezo, Quantum Pacific Group, and funds managed by Ares Management. According to the Spanish press, Atletico have been valued at around 2.5 billion euros ($2.89 billion). <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"As part of the agreement, Miguel Angel Gil and Enrique Cerezo will continue to lead Atletico Madrid as CEO and president, respectively, and will remain shareholders, ensuring the continuity and vision of the project and its leadership," the club said in a statement. Gil Marin was Atletico's majority shareholder with Holdco, a company that controlled the club with a 70.39 percent stake, while Quantum Pacific, a British company created by Israeli magnate Idan Ofer, held 27.81 percent. In Holdco, Gil Marin holds 50.82 percent of the shares, but Ares Management has 33.96 percent and Cerezo has 15.22 percent."ASC's investment will strengthen our club's position among the football elite and support our ambition to deliver long-term success for our millions of fans around the world," the statement said. "As long-term investors, ASC and the current shareholders will work with Atletico Madrid's management to strengthen the club's financial solidity, its sporting competitiveness, and its contribution to the community," the club continued.Atletico are currently fourth in La Liga, six points behind city rivals Real Madrid who top the table.

MADRID, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 08: General view inside the stadium prior to the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Levante UD at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on November 08, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

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Apollo Sports Capital acquires majority share in Atletico Madrid

Antoine Griezmann came off the bench and struck twice for Atletico Madrid to help his side beat L...

Antoine Griezmann came off the bench and struck twice for Atletico Madrid to help his side beat Levante 3-1 in La Liga on Saturday.The Rojiblancos moved provisionally third above Villarreal, who visit Espanyol later on hoping to go second with a victory.La Liga leaders Real Madrid travel across the capital to face Rayo Vallecano on Sunday while champions Barcelona are at Celta Vigo.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Atletico continued their run of good results in La Liga thanks to veteran forward Griezmann's second-half impact in what was a hard-fought triumph.Adrian de la Fuente's own goal sent the hosts ahead at the Metropolitano stadium but Levante levelled through Manu Sanchez.All-time Atletico top scorer Griezmann came on after an hour and hit a brace to earn his side all three points.Atletico have taken the lead in every league game they have played this season and went ahead in the 12th minute against Levante.Pablo Barrios' cross-shot from the right was pushed away by visiting goalkeeper Mathew Ryan but straight into helpless team-mate De la Fuente and into the net.Levante pulled level in the 21st minute as Atletico were caught napping at a corner. Sanchez nodded home at the back post after he was left completely unmarked, to become the first player to score against Diego Simeone's side in four league matches.The coach sent on Atletico talisman Griezmann just after the hour mark and the 34-year-old made an impact just a few seconds later.Griezmann tapped home from close range after Marcos Llorente cut the ball back for him to give Atletico the lead once more.Goduine Koyalipou came close to an equaliser for Levante but Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made a fine save to keep out his header.Griezmann grabbed his second with 10 minutes remaining after Ryan denied Julian Alvarez but the loose ball sat up nicely for the French forward to lunge in and turn over the line.Levante's Carlos Alvarez curled home a low free-kick in stoppage time but the goal was ruled out for offside against Matias Moreno who tried to kick it just in front of Oblak.

Antoine Griezmann of Atletico de Madrid celebrates a goal during the La Liga 2025/26 match between Atletico de Madrid and Levante at Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain, on November 8.

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Griezmann's double earns Atletico battling win over Levante

Arsenal's 10-game winning run in all competitions was ended by Brian Brobbey's stoppage-time equa...

Arsenal's 10-game winning run in all competitions was ended by Brian Brobbey's stoppage-time equaliser that salvaged a 2-2 draw for Sunderland on Saturday.The Gunners had not conceded for eight games before Saturday but could only extend their lead at the top of the Premier League over Manchester City, who host Liverpool on Sunday, to seven points.Dan Ballard ended the Gunners' run of clean sheets since September 28 to fire the Black Cats in front.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Victory would have lifted newly-promoted Sunderland into second, but thunderous finishes from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard turned the game around for Mikel Arteta's men in the second half.They could not close out a vital three points, however, as Brobbey outmuscled the normally imperious Gabriel Magalhaes to hook in Ballard's flick on.Arsenal dropping points is a welcome boost for their title rivals ahead of their showdown at the Etihad on Sunday.City and Liverpool have dominated the English top flight over the past decade and both sides would have been heartened by rare signs of cracks in Arsenal's facade.Liverpool sit fifth, now eight points off the top."We conceded two similar goals, which is not good enough for ourselves," said Arteta."But it's true that the team showed an incredible resilience and courage to come back from that result, to score the equaliser, to score the second one that we were pushing for, and, even at the end after we concede the goal, we have a massive chance as well to win it."I can only be proud of the team."Sunderland went into the match unbeaten at the Stadium of Light on their return to the top flight and their physical approach unsettled the visitors.Former Arsenal captain Granit Xhaka relished the challenge of trying to knock the visitors and his old team-mates off their stride.<h3>Ballard heroics</h3>The league leaders have relied on their strength from set pieces to catapult themselves into pole position for a first league title in 22 years.Yet, this time they were the ones to concede from a free-kick.Ballard blasted into the roof of the net beyond David Raya to open the scoring on 36 minutes after bursting onto Nordi Mukiele's header."It's a good morale boost to show we can go against a really top team - probably one of the best in Europe at the minute," said Ballard, who began his career at Arsenal."But it is just one point and we've got a lot of work to do to achieve our goal of staying up this year."Arsenal emerged a more purposeful attacking threat in the second period.Rice robbed Enzo Le Fee in midfield to begin the move for the equaliser before Mikel Merino teed up Saka, who fired low and hard past Robin Roefs on his weaker right foot.Martin Zubimendi hit the bar as the Arsenal pressure mounted and eventually told in spectacular fashion on 74 minutes.Trossard used the decoy run of Riccardo Calafiori to open up space on the edge of the box before unleashing a drive into the top corner.Sunderland showed the spirit that has seen them get off to a flying start to their first Premier League campaign in eight years.Ballard beat Zubimendi to a cross into the box and Brobbey showed a combination of strength and skill to hold off Gabriel and hook the ball beyond Raya.There was still time for more heroics from Ballard as he blocked Merino's goalbound effort after Roefs parried Calafiori's header.A point takes Sunderland level with City and above Liverpool and Tottenham.

Sunderland's Dutch goalkeeper #22 Robin Roefs (R) and Sunderland's Northern Irish midfielder #05 Daniel Ballard (2L) jump against Arsenal's Brazilian defender #06 Gabriel Magalhaes (L) and Arsenal's Spanish midfielder #23 Mikel Merino (2R) as they defend an Arsenal free kick during the English Premier League football match between Sunderland and Arsenal at The Stadium of Light in Sunderland in north east England on November 8, 2025.

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Sunderland score in stoppage time to snap Arsenal's 10-match winning run

Juventus were held to a goalless draw by local rivals Torino on Saturday, an uneventful day in Se...

Juventus were held to a goalless draw by local rivals Torino on Saturday, an uneventful day in Serie A in which the first three matches failed to provide a single goal.Luciano Spalletti's team sit fifth, three points behind league leaders Napoli after a scrappy but engaging derby at Juve's Allianz Stadium in which both teams had chances to win.Che Adams was denied in the 63rd minute when the Scotland forward charged forward and unleashed a low drive which was brilliantly kept out by Juve goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>And moments later Di Gregorio's Torino counterpart Alberto Paleari pulled off an even more impressive stop to claw away Weston McKennie's close-range header.

TURIN, ITALY - NOVEMBER 8: Head coach Luciano Spalletti of Juventus FC coaches his players during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and Torino FC at Juventus Stadium on November 8, 2025 in Turin, Italy.

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Juve held in Turin derby for 3rd Serie A goalless draw of day

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Kylian Mbappé (FRAN, UEFA, CHLG, WCQUEFA, INTFR, WORLDCUP, NATLEAGUEA, EURCQ, EURC, NATLEAGUEFNL, NATLEAGUEB, NATLEAGUEC, NATLEAGUED, LIGA, ESPCR)

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