Sheffield United continued their supremacy over city rivals Sheffield Wednesday with a 3-0 win on...

Sheffield United continued their supremacy over city rivals Sheffield Wednesday with a 3-0 win on Sunday thanks to a double from Tyrese Campbell.Tom Cannon sealed just a fourth win of the season for the Blades late on to bring Chris Wilder's men within one point of climbing out of the relegation zone.Winless against United since 2012, defeat compounded a miserable season for Wednesday who are set to drop to the third tier of English football.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>They remain on minus four points at the bottom of the table after receiving a 12-point deduction for entering administration last month.Campbell, who also scored the only goal in this fixture last season, opened the scoring on 11 minutes when he was set free by Callum O'Hare to fire past Ethan Horvath.Just three minutes into the second period, Campbell doubled his tally with cool finish before Cannon came off the bench to net just his second goal in 30 appearances for the Blades.

Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder celebrates the win after the Sky Bet Championship match at Hillsborough Stadium, Sheffield. Picture date: Sunday November 23, 2025.

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Sheffield United pour more misery on Wednesday in Steel City derby

Virgil van Dijk said Liverpool's players are letting manager Arne Slot down after the Premier Lea...

Virgil van Dijk said Liverpool's players are letting manager Arne Slot down after the Premier League champions' collapse continued with a 3-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest.Liverpool have lost six of their last seven league games to slide into the bottom half of the table, putting Slot under pressure after the club's record spend of nearly £450 million ($590 million) in the transfer market."We are definitely letting him (Slot) down but we've let ourselves down as well," said Van Dijk.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"You look at yourself first and then you help each other, you help each other get out of this mess because at the moment it is a mess - that's just a fact."As the champions we can't be in the situation we are in right now. What are we going to do about it? We're going to try to turn it around and that's the mentality everyone should have."None of Liverpool's big money summer signings have yet to make a positive impact.Alexander Isak, who cost a British transfer record £125 million, is still to score a league goal for the Reds and looked a shadow of the player he was at Newcastle during an ineffectual 68 minutes against Forest.But many of last season's title winners have also suffered a slump in form with Van Dijk's centre-back partner Ibrahima Konate also replaced early by Slot after another poor performance."What I want is for everyone to take responsibility on the pitch. We have to do that in order to push each other, to make each other better," added Van Dijk."We have been through it together and won the league and everyone was part of it and happy and when you go through a tough time you have to stick together and not point fingers."You have to be a man and face the toughness and go again, again and again because if you want to give up then you are at the wrong place in my eyes because this club has gone through much adversity over those years and we've always come out of it."Liverpool's form in the Champions League has been much better with three wins from four games.The return to European competition could offer some relief for Slot's men when PSV Eindhoven visit Anfield in Liverpool's next outing on Wednesday.

Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk (left) reacts during the Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool. Picture date: Saturday November 22, 2025.

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Van Dijk concedes Liverpool in 'a mess' after latest lapse

Troubled Liverpool's woeful season hit a new low with a shocking 3-0 home defeat against Nottingh...

Troubled Liverpool's woeful season hit a new low with a shocking 3-0 home defeat against Nottingham Forest.The spluttering champions fell behind in the 33rd minute when Murillo's fierce strike punished their failure to deal with Elliot Anderson's corner.Reds boss Arne Slot was fuming that the goal was allowed despite Forest's Dan Ndoye appearing to obstruct Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker -- an offence that led Virgil van Dijk's equaliser to be disallowed in the 3-0 loss at Manchester City before the international break.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sean Dyche's side doubled their lead after 46 minutes when Nicolo Savona slotted home from Neco Williams' cut-back.With Liverpool's defence in disarray, Morgan Gibbs-White scored Forest's third from the rebound after Omari Hutchinson's shot was saved in the 78th minute.Beaten by Forest at Anfield for a second successive season, Liverpool have lost eight of their last 11 games in all competitions, including six of their last seven in the top-flight.It is the first time Liverpool have lost consecutive league games by a three-goal margin since 1965.Slot admitted on Friday that Liverpool's players are still affected by the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car crash in Spain in July.And once again they were devoid of inspiration and energy in another lethargic display that left them languishing in 11th place, eight points behind leaders Arsenal.Liverpool's stunning decline comes after a summer spending spree of over £400 million ($523 million).Alexander Isak was hauled off in the second half of his fourth league start for Liverpool following a British record move from Newcastle that has failed to live up to the hype.Sweden striker Isak has yet to score for the Reds in the top-flight.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister and Alexander Isak of Liverpool look dejected following the Premier League match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest at Anfield on November 22, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Liverpool hit new low with lopsided home loss to Forest

Chelsea stepped up their Premier League title challenge with a gritty 2-0 win against struggling ...

Chelsea stepped up their Premier League title challenge with a gritty 2-0 win against struggling Burnley on Saturday.Pedro Neto put the Blues ahead just before the interval at Turf Moor and Enzo Fernandez netted in the closing stages.Enzo Maresca's side climb to second place and sit three points behind leaders Arsenal, who host Tottenham on Sunday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Blues have won eight of their last 10 matches in all competitions, making it a memorable 50th Premier League game in charge for Maresca.It was the ideal warm-up for Chelsea ahead of a crucial week featuring home games against Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday and Arsenal in the Premier League on November 30.The west Londoners would drop back down to third place if Manchester City avoid defeat against Newcastle later on Saturday, but regardless of that result, their hard-fought victory in freezing Lancashire added to their title momentum."It's tough after the international break, 12:30, Burnley away, it's always a hard game. But the way we competed I'm very happy," Maresca said."To come here and not concede is very difficult but overall they only had one real chance."It was very important to keep the momentum from before the international break. Now we'll recover our energy and on to Tuesday."Fourth-bottom Burnley have now lost five of their last seven league matches.Chelsea were without Cole Palmer after the England forward extended his prolonged injury absence by fracturing his toe after stubbing it into a door.Palmer had been set to resume training this week after two months out with a groin problem.Adding to Maresca's issues, fatigued Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo was left on the bench after arriving back from international duty on Thursday.Maresca had complained about Chelsea being given the early Saturday kick-off again.His mood wasn't improved in the fifth minute when Blues goalkeeper Robert Sanchez accidently booted the ball into Fernandez's head, a miscue that left the Argentine midfielder needing a brief concussion check.Fernandez was able to play on and despite that painful interlude, Chelsea eventually took control.<h3>Clinical Fernandez</h3>Neto's effort from the edge of the area deflected wide before Jamie Gittens lashed over from a tight angle.Kyle Walker bailed out Burnley on his 400th Premier League appearance with a last-ditch block to stop Gittens tapping in Neto's cross.Chelsea's Trevoh Chalobah was fortunate not to concede a farcical penalty when the defender used his hand to stop Sanchez's pass inside his own area before returning the ball to the 'keeper.Sanchez appeared not to have restarted play, instead letting Chalobah take the goal-kick so Burnley's hopes of a penalty were dashed.Maresca's men made the most of that let-off to take the lead with a well-crafted goal in the 37th minute.Marc Cucurella showed a deft touch to control a high ball into the Burnley area before passing back to Gittens.Lofting a pin-point cross to the far post, Gittens picked out Neto and he delivered with a superb diving header into the far corner.Neto's fourth goal this season was almost followed by another for Chelsea as Liam Delap's drive forced a save from Martin Dubravka.Gittens' deflected strike flashed just wide early in the second half.Neto, picked out by Fernandez's pass, was inches away from doubling Chelsea's lead as his fierce blast cannoned into the near post.Unmarked inside the Chelsea area, Zian Flemming wasted Burnley's best opportunity to snatch an equaliser with a wild shot that cleared the bar.But Fernandez put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute, capping a flowing move with a clinical close-range finish from Marc Guiu's pass.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 22: Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Burnley and Chelsea at Turf Moor on November 22, 2025 in Burnley, England.

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Title contenders? Surging Chelsea sink Burnley, close gap on Arsenal

Intercontinental playoffs | European playoffs  Four-time World Cup winners Italy will face Northe...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3403776" href="https://thescore.com/news/3403776">Intercontinental playoffs</a> | European playoffsFour-time World Cup winners Italy will face Northern Ireland in the semifinals of the European playoffs for the 2026 tournament, following the draw on Thursday.If Italy get through that match, they will play the winner of Wales's semi-final against Bosnia-Herzegovina.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In other eye-catching matchups, Ukraine will play a star-studded Sweden team that could feature Liverpool forward Alexander Isak and Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres.If the Ukrainians get past the Swedes, they will face the winner of Poland's match against Albania.The Republic of Ireland must travel to the Czech Republic and the winner of that match will host the winner of the semi-final between Denmark and North Macedonia.The 16 playoff teams were seeded and then divided equally into four unique paths. The winner of each path will qualify for the World Cup. Here are all the playoff paths and matchups (teams in bold will host their respective semifinals, and a draw was used to determine which teams will host the four finals):Path AItaly (1) vs. Northern Ireland (4) Wales (2) vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina (3)The winner of the Wales-Bosnia match will host the Path A final.Path BUkraine (1) vs. Sweden (4) Poland (2) vs. Albania (3)The winner of the Ukraine-Sweden match will host the Path B final.Path CTurkey (1) vs. Romania (4) Slovakia (2) vs. Kosovo (3)The winner of the Slovakia-Kosovo match will host the Path C final.Path DDenmark (1) vs. North Macedonia (4) Czechia (2) vs. Ireland (3)The winner of the Czechia-Ireland match will host the Path D final.The semifinals will be played March 26, 2026. The decisive finals will then take place March 31. FIFA said specific kickoff times will be announced at a later date.The 2026 World Cup begins June 11.

Italian former player Marco Materazzi shows the paper slip of Italy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Play-Off draw at the FIFA's Home of Football in Zurich on November 20, 2025.

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UEFA World Cup playoffs: Italy learns path, Sweden and Poland could meet

The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country by population ever to qualify fo...

The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country by population ever to qualify for the World Cup on Tuesday as Haiti booked their return to the tournament for the first time in 52 years along with Panama.A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao - with a population of just 156,000 - squeeze into next year's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston.Haiti, meanwhile, who last appeared in the World Cup in 1974, also completed an improbable qualification campaign with a 2-0 win over Nicaragua.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ironically, Haiti secured their decisive qualification victory in Curacao, where the team have been forced to play their home qualifiers due to unrest in their homeland.Panama, meanwhile, grabbed the other automatic qualification spot on offer on Tuesday with a 3-0 win over El Salvador at home.That victory ended Suriname's hopes of grabbing automatic qualification. Suriname, beaten 3-1 away by Guatemala, nevertheless squeezed into the playoff places.Curacao, whose veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat was forced to miss the game due to a family issue in the Netherlands, were left celebrating a historic result.The team known as the 'Blue Wave' finished top of Group B with 12 points from six games, one point clear of Jamaica.Curacao are by far the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, which is being expanded to 48 teams next year for the first time.The previous smallest country to qualify for the tournament were Iceland in 2018, with a population of around 350,000.

Curacao's players pose for a team photo before the start of the World Cup qualifier football match between Jamaica and Curacao at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica on November 18, 2025.

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Curacao becomes smallest nation to ever reach World Cup

Harry Wilson scored a hat-trick as Wales secured home advantage for their 2026 World Cup play-off...

Harry Wilson scored a hat-trick as Wales secured home advantage for their 2026 World Cup play-off semi-final with a statement 7-1 thrashing of North Macedonia in Cardiff on Tuesday.Craig Bellamy's men knew they could still pip Belgium to automatic qualification from Group J with a win, but would need the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists to slip up at home to Liechtenstein.With Belgium on their way to a thumping 7-0 win in Liege, Wales' match against North Macedonia became all about securing a home semi-final, with both teams already assured of berths in the play-offs next March.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Wilson gave Wales the lead in the 18th minute from the penalty spot before David Brooks doubled the advantage.Bojan Miovski quickly pulled one back for North Macedonia, who were also looking to finish second behind Belgium and potentially avoid an away semi-final.But a brilliant solo goal from Brennan Johnson killed off the game before half-time.Daniel James swept home another in the 57th minute from a wonderful Wilson flick, before the stand-in skipper scored his second.The Fulham midfielder completed a memorable treble with his second penalty nine minutes from time, and substitute Nathan Broadhead rounded off the scoring.Wales and North Macedonia will now have their eyes firmly fixed on Thursday's play-off draw.There are four places up for grabs in the 16-team European play-offs.

CARDIFF, WALES - NOVEMBER 18: Harry Wilson of Wales celebrates after scoring their side's sixth goal to complete their hat-trick from the penalty spot during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Wales and North Macedonia at Cardiff City Stadium on November 18, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales.

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Wilson's hat-trick helps Wales secure World Cup playoff game at home

Spain booked their ticket to the 2026 World Cup with a 2-2 draw against Turkey in their final qua...

Spain booked their ticket to the 2026 World Cup with a 2-2 draw against Turkey in their final qualifier on Tuesday to top Group E.Turkey finished second and will compete in the playoffs after they became the first team to force Luis de la Fuente's Euro 2024 champions to drop points.Elsewhere, Austria, Belgium, and Switzerland all also booked tickets to next year's tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada on the final night of European qualifying.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dani Olmo fired Spain ahead but Deniz Gul and Salih Ozcan struck for Turkey as the hosts conceded their first goals in the qualification process.Mikel Oyarzabal hit back to equalise in Seville for a Spain team looking to win football's biggest prize for the second time.Spain scored 21 goals in qualifying while conceding just twice and have not tasted defeat in a national record 31 consecutive games.However, that run includes a 2-2 Nations League final draw with Portugal after extra-time in June, with Spain losing on penalties.Turkey showed De la Fuente's side are not flawless, although Spain were missing several key players, including Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Rodri."There's a lot of work to do and time to think about a lot of things, but we will prepare well," said De la Fuente, who was upset by Barca star Yamal undergoing treatment on a groin injury which ruled him out of the final qualifiers."I hope I can count on all the players to be able to take the best players that we have in Spain to compete in and try to win this beautiful competition," he added.They knew to reach a 13th consecutive World Cup all they had to do was avoid defeat by a seven-goal margin, which was never on the cards, and might have triumphed if not for some inspired goalkeeping by Manchester United stopper Altay Bayindir."We wanted to finish with a win and a clean sheet, so it's bitter-sweet... but we're happy to qualify for the World Cup," Olmo told TVE."They had chances and we did too, there could have been more goals."After just four minutes Spain took the lead. Marc Cucurella's cross found Olmo in the box and he controlled it well to bypass a defender before finishing lethally.The Barcelona playmaker twice came close to scoring a second from long range but Bayindir tipped over both efforts.<h3>Turkey turnaround</h3>Turkey became the first team to score against Spain in qualifying just before the break when Gul levelled, reacting quickly to flick home a knock-down from a corner.The visitors came out strongly in the second half and forced Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon into a pair of smart saves before taking the lead.Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ozcan rifled home from the edge of the box after Orkun Kokcu had set the ball up nicely for him.Spain bit back and Oyarzabal finished from close range after Merih Demiral did brilliantly to block Yeremy Pino's shot on the line but it rebounded off another defender nicely for the Real Sociedad forward.It was Oyarzabal's sixth goal in a qualifying campaign where he has staked his claim to be Spain's starting striker at the World Cup.Substitute Samu Aghehowa came close as Spain sought a winner, but Bayindir kept out his header and then denied Alex Baena to secure Turkey an impressive point.Barcelona's Fermin Lopez found the net in stoppage time but his goal was disallowed for offside."It's a moment to look back and see all we've done, all we've worked for, the commitment from everyone, and celebrate," said Spain's Marcos Llorente."It's a nice moment for the national team and we have to enjoy that."<h3>World Cup field takes shape</h3>Belgium, semi-finalists in 2018, cruised into the draw for the World Cup with a Jeremy Doku-inspired hammering of Liechtenstein.The Manchester City winger grabbed a brace in Liege as Charles De Ketelaere also netted twice and Hans Vanaken, Brandon Mechele and Alexis Saelemaekers completed the rout.In Vienna, Michael Gregoritsch bundled home a 77th-minute leveller to snatch a 1-1 draw for Austria against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which sealed Ralf Rangnick's team a first World Cup appearance in 28 years."I can't believe it; we made it! I have been trying to reach the World Cup for 18 years. Finally now, at the end of my career, we got there. I can't wait," 36-year-old Austrian forward Marko Arnautovic said, according to UEFA.com.Haris Tabakovic's early strike had looked as if it might be enough for the visitors to snatch first place from under Austria's noses until Gregoritsch condemned Bosnia to the play-offs.Switzerland will appear in a sixth successive World Cup finals after drawing 1-1 in Pristina against Kosovo.With the Swiss needing to avoid a defeat by six goals to seal top spot, they rarely looked troubled as Ruben Vargas handed them the lead in the 47th minute before Florent Muslija equalised.

SEVILLE, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 18: Dani Olmo of Spain celebrates after scoring his teams first goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Spain and Türkiye at Estadio de La Cartuja on November 18, 2025 in Seville, Spain.

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Spain, Belgium among European teams to clinch World Cup spots

Injury-time wonder-goals by Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean handed Scotland a stunning 4-2 win ov...

Injury-time wonder-goals by Kieran Tierney and Kenny McLean handed Scotland a stunning 4-2 win over Denmark on Tuesday to qualify them for the 2026 World Cup.Scotland's late show in Glasgow means Steve Clarke's side have qualified for the global footballing showpiece for the first time since 1998.Level at 2-2 as the clock ticked past 90, Denmark were set to advance to the World Cup as Group C winners until Tierney curled in an exquisite finish from distance three minutes into injury time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>McLean then put the match beyond doubt as he lifted the ball over Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who was well off his line, from the halfway line on 98 minutes."That just sums up this squad," captain Andy Robertson told the BBC. "Never say die. We just keep going right to the end and one of the craziest games."We put the country through it, but I'm sure it's worth it. We're going to the World Cup."Earlier, Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay had given the hosts a third-minute lead with a towering overhead kick.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/cropped_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810507/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246780082.jpg?ts=1763501397 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>McTominay's clubmate Rasmus Hojlund levelled for Denmark from the spot just shy of the hour, before his side went down to 10 as Rasmus Kristensen picked up a second booking.An anxious Hampden Park let out a roar of ecstasy and relief in the 78th minute as Lawrence Shankland turned in from close range.But Denmark struck back again through Patrick Dorgu four minutes later before Tierney and McLean stole the headlines.Denmark will now be in Thursday's draw for the European play-offs, which will take place next March.

Scotland's Andrew Robertson and Scotland's Lawrence Shankland celebrate with team-mates after they qualified for the 2026 World Cup after beating Denmark 4-2 in their final qualifier at Hampden Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Tuesday November 18, 2025.

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Wild win sends Scotland to 1st World Cup since 1998

The bitter dispute between Kylian Mbappe and his former club Paris Saint-Germain reached the Fren...

The bitter dispute between Kylian Mbappe and his former club Paris Saint-Germain reached the French labour court on Monday for a tense hearing in which the France captain claimed 263 million euros ($304m) and the club responded by demanding he pay them 440m euros.Both sides offered a long shopping list of grievances with price tags attached.PSG said they are basing their figure in part on a botched 300m-euro transfer to Saudi club Al Hilal which Mbappe refused in June 2023, and its aftermath. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Mbappe left for Real Madrid on a free transfer when his contract expired the following summer."We are indeed claiming 440 million euros," Renaud Semerdjian, one of the seven lawyers representing the PSG, told AFP after the hearing.Semerdjian said the figure included lost transfer revenue, compensation for damage to the club's image and for what the club said was a breach of an agreement they made with Mbappe after he refused to move to Saudi Arabia.Mbappe, absent on Monday but represented by four lawyers, says he made no agreement in 2023 to waive any payment from the club.The 26-year-old striker initially filed a complaint in June over the way he was treated by PSG at the start of the 2023-24 season.Mbappe argues that he was sidelined by the Qatari-owned club and made to train with players the club were trying to offload after refusing to agree a new contract.It is a widespread practice that in France prompted the players' union to lodge a complaint last year.Mbappe was not invited to take part in PSG's 2023 pre-season tour of Asia and missed the first game of that season but was later recalled to the team after holding talks with the club.He is also claiming the Parisian club are applying the wrong French legal classification to his contract.After seven seasons with PSG he joined Real Madrid where he earns a reported annual salary of 30m euros.He scored 256 goals in 308 games for PSG but the club won the Champions League for the first time last season following the striker's departure.The tribunal will take several weeks to reach a decision which is expected on December 16.

Kylian Mbappe of France plays during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers Europe zone group D football match between France and Ukraine at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris .

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Mbappe, Paris Saint-Germain in counterclaims totaling €503M

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'

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