David Alaba has been passed fit for the 2026 World Cup after a muscle scare, but Austria suffers a major blow as Christoph Baumgartner is ruled out with a thigh injury sustained in the pre-match warm-up.

Ghana coach Carlos Queiroz defends including Thomas Partey in World Cup squad despite rape trial, citing presumption of innocence. Partey and Morocco's Hakimi both face charges, raising questions about sport and morality.

South Africa's flight to the 2026 World Cup was grounded due to visa problems for players and officials. Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie called the situation an 'embarrassment' and demanded accountability.

Thomas Tuchel's 26-man England squad for the 2026 World Cup leaves out big names including Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire. Harry Kane will captain the side as they face Croatia, Ghana, and Panama in Group L.