Tag: World Cup Qualifiers

Tuchel says Bellingham must accept substitutions as England spirit comes first

Thomas Tuchel (England)
November 2025

Thomas Tuchel addressed claims Jude Bellingham did not fully embrace England’s collective after being substituted for Morgan Rogers, saying any impression of individual frustration is a bad look when camp messages stress unity, shared sacrifice and acceptance of tough decisions during a crowded international schedule. Tuchel said he would review footage but believes everyone celebrated Harry Kane’s goals together, stressing that both Bellingham and Rogers want to play every minute yet must accept rotation. He repeated that behaviour is key and that players must handle in game choices without public displays of dissent.

Sane answers Nagelsmann warning with decisive Germany showing against Luxembourg

Leroy Sane (Germany / Galatasaray)
November 2025

Leroy Sane (Germany / Galatasaray) responded to Julian Nagelsmann’s recent warning about his national-team place by starring in Germany’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Luxembourg, delivering two goal-creating contributions and extending the upturn in form he has built since settling at Galatasaray. He admitted an initial adjustment period in Turkey as he learned new teammates and roles, but said recent performances leave him very happy. After assisting Nick Woltemade’s opener and sparking the second, he told reporters he wants to carry this momentum toward the World Cup.

RFEF blasts timing of Lamine Yamal procedure, Barca teen withdrawn from Spain squad

Lamine Yamal (Barcelona/Spain)
November 2025

Spain’s FA said it was “surprised and uncomfortable” to learn Barcelona sent Lamine Yamal for an invasive radiofrequency treatment hours before camp, then notified them late at night recommending 7–10 days’ rest. Spain released him from World Cup qualifying duty. Yamal is managing pubalgia and Barcelona prioritized controlled recovery after recurring groin pain since September. RFEF criticized the lack of prior coordination but emphasized player welfare. Spain face Georgia and Turkey and will call a replacement while the teenager rests per medical advice.

Brazil Boss Dorival Junior Facing D-Day After Argentina Humbling

Dorival Junior (Brazil)
Meeting set for Friday, following March 2025 loss

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will meet Friday to evaluate Dorival Junior’s future following Brazil’s 4-1 thrashing by Argentina in World Cup qualifying.
While post-window reviews are routine, the magnitude of Tuesday’s defeat has forced CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues to fast-track talks. Sources say several replacements are being discussed, including Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid), Filipe Luis (Flamengo), and Jorge Jesus (Al Hilal). Dorival, appointed just in January 2024, has failed to spark a turnaround. Brazil sit fourth in CONMEBOL qualifying, with pressure mounting after a Copa America exit and a shaky run of form. Dorival insists he still believes in the process, calling this “the most delicate moment” of his footballing career.

Raphinha Sparks Tunnel Clash After Brazil’s Loss to Argentina

Raphinha (Brazil, Barcelona), Endrick (Brazil, Palmeiras), Joelinton (Brazil, Newcastle)
Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa), Leandro Paredes (Argentina, Roma)
Post-match, after Brazil’s heavy defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying

Raphinha was involved in a heated tunnel incident following Brazil’s loss to Argentina, stemming from provocative pre-match comments and on-field tension.
As Raphinha exited toward the locker room, he was intentionally bumped by Emiliano Martínez, prompting an altercation with Leandro Paredes. Raphinha tried to confront them but was held back by Endrick and escorted away by Joelinton. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni played down the clash, forgiving Raphinha and attributing the comments to motivational intent.

Ryan Teague Commits to Socceroos Despite Interest From China and Malaysia

Ryan Teague, Melbourne Victory/Australia
March 2025

Despite approaches from both China and Malaysia due to his heritage, Ryan Teague has reaffirmed his commitment to the Australian national team. Teague is in the Socceroos squad and could debut against China in their World Cup qualifier.
Eligible through his mother (China) and Malaysian heritage, Teague received direct outreach from both nations but deferred to his agent. He confirmed his lifelong goal has been to represent Australia. Teague has become one of the A-League’s standout midfielders this season.

Tuchel Talks with Rashford & Foden After Criticism, Eyes Fresh Changes vs Latvia

Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
24 March 2025

England coach Thomas Tuchel held group discussions with Rashford and Foden after criticizing their limited attacking impact against Albania. He praised their off-ball work but urged more one-on-one drive and midfield link-up.
Rashford was noted for mistimed runs, Foden for lack of momentum. Tuchel hinted at squad rotation ahead of England’s Monday qualifier vs Latvia, with Morgan Gibbs-White likely to feature after impressing Tuchel with his attitude.

Anthony Gordon Withdraws from England Squad with Hip Injury

Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United / England)
24 March 2025

Gordon has pulled out of England’s squad after sustaining a hip injury during Friday’s 2-0 win over Albania.
The winger came off the bench but picked up a knock in his 15-minute cameo. He has now returned to Newcastle for further assessment and will miss Monday’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

Alisson Withdraws from Brazil Squad After Concussion

Alisson Becker, Liverpool/Brazil
21 March 2025 (sustained during Thursday’s World Cup qualifier)

Alisson has withdrawn from the Brazil squad due to a concussion suffered in a collision with Davinson Sánchez during Brazil’s 2-1 win over Colombia.
He will return to Liverpool for further medical assessment and will miss Brazil’s upcoming match against Argentina. His availability for Liverpool’s April 2 clash with Everton is uncertain.

Tuchel Defends Henderson’s England Recall

Jordan Henderson (Ajax → England National Team)
March 2025 (World Cup Qualifiers)

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his decision to recall Henderson, emphasizing his leadership and winning mentality.
Despite being out of the squad for a year due to his move to Saudi Arabia and later Ajax, Tuchel believes Henderson’s presence is crucial for team culture and cohesion.

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