Jon McConnell determined to grab Brazil chance after frustrating few years – The Irish News

THERE was a time when it felt as though the setbacks were never-ending, but Jon McConnell didn’t lose faith. Injuries, coming out the wrong side of split decisions, and trying to force his way into the picture in one of the country’s most competitive weight classes meant McConnell has had to bide his time as … Read more

‘You’re not Neymar!’ – Vinicius Junior sent brutal Brazil No.10 shirt warning

There is a growing consensus that Vinicius is a victim of a misplaced tactical identity, with suggestions that he should return to the numbers he has previously worn to escape the burden of the playmaker role. Addressing the weight of the No.10 jersey on the winger, Luciano stated: “I was really angry when I saw … Read more

Vinicius Jr fit to play for Brazil as Carlo Ancelotti confirms Real Madrid forward will feature against Croatia

While the participation of his biggest stars is guaranteed, Ancelotti remained tight-lipped regarding the full starting XI. The Selecao are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat against France in Boston, a result that marked the team’s first loss under the current coaching setup as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup cycle. … Read more

The new Ronaldo, Ronaldinho & Romario? Joao Pedro compares Vinicius Jr, Raphinha & Co to legendary Brazil trio as Chelsea star admits to feeling World Cup pressure

Brazil forward Pedro has expressed confidence in the current generation of Brazilian talent, highlighting the presence of several stars at top European clubs while acknowledging the growing pressure on the national team to end its long wait for World Cup glory. The Selecao have not won the World Cup since 2002, when a squad consisting … Read more

Barcelona fear the worst for Raphinha as Carlo Ancelotti explains Brazil winger’s half-time substitution against France

Despite the result, Ancelotti was quick to defend the performance of his starting attackers while clarifying the medical necessity behind the half-time change. The Italian tactician prioritised the welfare of his players over chasing a result in a warm-up fixture. Ancelotti told reporters: “I think Raphinha played very well. He had some muscle discomfort at … Read more

NXGN 2026: Lamine Yamal, Estevao and 10 teenage wonderkids set to light up the 2026 World Cup

Perhaps now more than ever before, a number of players are being presented with a choice when it comes to their international allegiances, with plenty of likely participants in the World Cup set to represent countries they may not have envisioned playing for while growing up. Ibrahim Mbaye, for example, spent his childhood lining out … Read more

Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni reveals message he sent to NFL legend before representing France in ‘Tom Brady’s Stadium’

Tchouameni highlighted the significance of the clash beyond the friendly status, while also enjoying a high-profile reunion with his former Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti. The midfielder noted: “It was an important game for us to play against Brazil. It’s always great, so we were happy to play this game.” While Ancelotti was naturally disappointed by … Read more

Mbappe nets for 10-man France in win against Brazil in World Cup warm-up | World Cup 2026 News

France beat Brazil 2-1 in a friendly in the United States, in what was a potential dress rehearsal for World Cup 2026 final. Published On 26 Mar 202626 Mar 2026 France forward Kylian Mbappe showed no ill effects of his left knee injury when he broke free for a goal to give France an early … Read more

Preview: England vs Uruguay – stats, team news, line-ups

England welcome Uruguay to Wembley Stadium for an international friendly on Friday evening, with the Three Lions set to continue their preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This is one of England’s two friendly games scheduled for this month in the build-up to the World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17. Advertisement Match … Read more