Soccer
Mexico vs. Portugal friendly inaugurates remodeled Estadio Banorte amid Ronaldo absence and protests
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The March 28 friendly between Mexico and Portugal marked the reopening of Estadio Banorte (formerly Azteca) after a $300 million remodel for the 2026 World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo missed the match due to injury but soon resumed training, sparking online memes. The event drew protests, extended public transport, and featured a cashless payment system.
England has released its new Nike home, away, and goalkeeper kits for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with players like Harry Kane and Jordan Pickford modeling the designs. The kits went on sale immediately, featuring elements that evoke ambition and nostalgia. Captain Kane expressed particular excitement for the red away shirt.
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Neighbors from Tlalpan and anti-World Cup groups plan to block Calzada de Tlalpan on Saturday, March 28, ahead of the Mexico vs. Portugal friendly at Estadio Banorte. The protest opposes the urban impacts of 2026 World Cup preparations, including rent hikes and gentrification. Authorities announced road closures starting at 1 p.m.
Senegal plans to display its Africa Cup of Nations trophy before a match against Peru, rejecting a Confederation of African Football decision to award the title to Morocco. Football chief Abdoulaye Fall called the ruling the 'most blatant administrative robbery' in sports history. The country has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and demanded an investigation into alleged corruption.
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Sweden defeated Ukraine 3-1 and Denmark beat North Macedonia 4-0 in the World Cup play-off semi-finals on Thursday evening. Both teams delivered strong second-half performances to secure their places in next week's finals. The matches were part of eight European ties and one inter-confederation clash vying for spots in the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti voiced frustration over the short preparation time for his team's World Cup warm-up friendly against France in Foxboro on Thursday. Most players arrived only on Tuesday, limiting training ahead of the match against the World Cup favorites. Key absences plague both sides as they gear up for the summer tournament.
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Italy face Northern Ireland in Bergamo on Thursday in a World Cup play-off semi-final, with the winners advancing to meet either Wales or Bosnia for a spot in the 2026 finals. The four-time champions are desperate to avoid missing a third consecutive tournament, while Northern Ireland aim to reach their first World Cup since 1986. Managers and players from both sides expressed determination amid high stakes.
Scotland faces Japan in international friendly at Hampden
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March 27, 2026 03:50Jamaica and Bolivia advance to 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff finals
March 27, 2026 02:50Colombia loses 2-1 to Croatia and ends unbeaten streak in friendly
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March 26, 2026 03:49France beats Brazil 2-1 in friendly at Gillette Stadium
March 25, 2026 20:00Czech Republic hosts Ireland in World Cup play-off
March 25, 2026 15:43Wales host Bosnia & Herzegovina in World Cup play-off
March 25, 2026 08:40Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. trains with Real Madrid under-16 team