FIFA Men’s World Cup
Updated Jun. 23, 2026 2:06 a.m. ET
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Tunisia have sensationally sacked head coach Sabri Lamouchi just one game into its 2026 World Cup campaign. The decision comes in the wake of a devastating 5-1 defeat at the hands of Sweden in their Group F opener on Sunday.
The North African side were left reeling following a one-sided affair that saw the Swedish attack carve through their defence with ease. The 5-1 scoreline marked one of the most lopsided results in Tunisia’s tournament history, prompting the governing body to take drastic measures. The defeat was compounded by the narrative on the pitch, as Yasin Ayari notably scored against the country of his father’s birth to help seal Tunisia’s fate.
While the result on the pitch was the primary catalyst for the dismissal, it has been reported that significant dressing room tension had been brewing behind the scenes.
Lamouchi’s tenure across all competitions ends after just five matches in the dugout. It appears the lack of cohesion between the coaching staff and the playing squad made his position untenable once the pressure of the world stage was applied.
Looking ahead, the Carthage Eagles are expected to turn to a familiar face to steady the ship. Former manager Mondher Kebaier is the frontrunner to take over on an interim basis as the team prepares for a critical encounter against Japan on June 20th.
However, it has also been reported that former Sunderland and Tunisia star Wahbi Khazri is in the running to take the hotseat instead.
By opting for a change mid-tournament, Tunisia have secured an unwanted piece of history. Lamouchi becomes the first coach to be officially sacked while the 2026 World Cup is still in progress, highlighting the depths of the federation’s disappointment in the French manager.
With the federation feeling there was no path forward under the current leadership, they chose to act before the second group-stage fixture. It is worth noting that Tunisia’s task will be far from easy, as, following their clash with Japan, they are set to conclude the group stage against the Netherlands.
Two things have undoubtedly been true this summer: the superstars are shining, and the Golden Boot odds seem to be changing every minute.
Just as they did on matchday 1, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland stole the spotlight again on Monday, combining for six more goals.
Messi struck first, setting the all-time World Cup goals record in the first half of Argentina’s match against Austria. He then added another goal in extra time at game’s end, giving him 18 World Cup goals all time and five through two 2026 World Cup games.
That performance briefly made Messi the Golden Boot favorite at +150.
But the lead didn’t last long.
A few hours later, Mbappé responded with two goals of his own, jumping from +350 to +155 to reclaim the favorite spot on the board. The French superstar now has 16 career World Cup goals, tying Miroslav Klose for the second-most in men’s World Cup history.
The back-and-forth between two of the greatest players in the history of the sport is shaping up to make this a historic summer, with records likely to be broken and traded every time these two superstars step onto the pitch.
If that wasn’t enough, Haaland added two more goals of his own in Norway’s 3-2 win over Senegal to tighten the race even further.
Messi now has the most goals this tournament with five, Mbappé and Haaland are tied for second with four, Canada’s Jonathan David and Germany’s Deniz Undav have three, and a host of other stars — Harry Kane, Vinícius Jr., Mikel Oyarzabal and Kai Havertz — have two.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race is already shaping up to be historic. Let’s dive into the updated odds at FanDuel Sportsbook as of June 22.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
Kylian Mbappé: +155 (bet $10 to win $25.50 total)
Lionel Messi: +165 (bet $10 to win $26.50 total)
Erling Haaland: +500 (bet $10 to win $60 total)
Harry Kane: +700 (bet $10 to win $80 total)
Mikel Oyarzabal: +2200 (bet $10 to win $230 total)
Deniz Undav: +2500 (bet $10 to win $260 total)
Lamine Yamal: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)
Vinícius Júnior: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)
Johan Manzambi: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)
Jonathan David: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Folarin Balogun: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Cody Gakpo: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Kai Havertz: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Matheus Cunha: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Ayase Ueda +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Here’s what to know about this oddsboard:
The Favorite(s): Recognize those two names atop the board? In Argentina’s opener against Algeria, with his first career World Cup hat trick, Messi tied Miroslav Klose for the most goals in men’s World Cup history with 16, while also setting the record as the oldest player (38) to record a hat trick, passing Cristiano Ronaldo. Then, in Argentina’s second game against Austria, Messi scored late in the first half to pass Klose for the record, and scored once more late in the contest to put some space between himself and Klose.
Mbappé entered the tournament as the Golden Boot favorite. The French superstar scored twice in his World Cup opener, as he became France’s new all-time leader in goals with 58. Then, in his second World Cup match just hours after Messi pulled away, Mbappé added two more goals to regain favoritism. He won the Golden Boot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is looking to become the first player in history to win two World Cup Golden Boot awards.
The biggest sporting event North America has ever hosted is in full swing, and we already have a ton of movement atop the 2026 FIFA World Cup oddsboard.
Let’s dive into the full odds via FanDuel Sportsbook, as of June 22.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
France: +400 (bet $10 to win $50 total)
Spain: +500 (bet $10 to win $60 total)
England: +600 (bet $10 to win $70 total)
Argentina: +650 (bet $10 to win $75 total)
Portugal: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total)
Brazil: +1300 (bet $10 to win $140 total)
Germany: +1300 (bet $10 to win $140 total)
Netherlands: +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)
Norway: +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total)
United States: +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total)
Morocco: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)
Japan: +4500 (bet $10 to win $460 total)
Mexico: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)
Belgium: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)
Colombia: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)
Switzerland: +8000 (bet $10 to win $810 total)
Here’s what to know about this oddsboard:
The Favorites: France is now the solo favorite atop the oddsboard. It opened its pursuit for a third World Cup title with a 3-1 win against Senegal. Les Bleus followed that up with a dominating 3-0 win over Iraq on Monday. France will face Norway in a heavyweight showdown to decide Group I on Friday as it eyes a deep tournament run once again. France would win the group with a win or draw against Norway.
While its opening draw against Cape Verde was a nightmare start to the tournament, Spain remains the second choice after its bounce-back 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday. Spain has appeared in 16 previous World Cups and won the tournament once, lifting the trophy in 2010. It also won the 2024 Euros. It will look to bounce back and follow Argentina’s route to the title in 2022, after its disappointing first result of the tournament.
Biggest Risers: Could the USA and Mexico have gotten off to better starts? After winning its first two group games, Mexico has officially won Group A and has clinched a spot in the knockout round. In its opening match, Mexico was dominant in a 2-0 win over South Africa. On Thursday, El Tri edged out a 1-0 win over South Korea. After Mexico’s start to the tournament, it now has major expectations placed on it to get past the Round of 16 for the first time since 1986. Meanwhile, the U.S. followed its dream opening win with another well-played match. The Stars and Stripes have won Group D, which allows them to play a third place team in the Round of 32 at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on July 1. Norway has also jumped from +3500 to +3000 after winning its first two World Cup matches against Iraq and Senegal.
The group stage is the first step toward World Cup glory.
All 48 nations playing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been divided into 12 groups (labeled A-L) of four teams.
With the expanded knockout format of 32 teams advancing past the group stage, winning the group has become more important than ever.
Let’s check out the latest odds for all 12 groups at FanDuel Sportsbook, as of June 23.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
Group A winner
Mexico wins
Group B winner
Canada: -165 (bet $10 to win $16.06 total)
Switzerland: +130 (bet $10 to win $23 total)
Group C winner
Brazil: -200 (bet $10 to win $15 total)
Morocco: +170 (bet $10 to win $27 total)
Scotland: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Group D winner
The USA wins
Group E winner
Germany wins
Group F winner
Netherlands: -370 (bet $10 to win $12.70 total)
Japan: +350 (bet $10 to win $45 total)
Sweden: +2700 (bet $10 to win $280 total)
Group G winner
Egypt: -180 (bet $10 to win $15.56 total)
Belgium: +240 (bet $10 to win $34 total)
Iran: +650 (bet $10 to win $75 total)
Group H winner
Spain: -750 (bet $10 to win $11.33 total)
Uruguay: +750 (bet $10 to win $85 total)
Cape Verde: +3000 (bet $10 to win $310 total)
Group I winner
France: -450 (bet $10 to win $12.22 total)
Norway: +350 (bet $10 to win $45 total)
Group J winner
Argentina wins
Group K winner
Colombia: -110 (bet $10 to win $19.09 total)
Portugal: +110 (bet $10 to win $21 total)
DR Congo: +1300 (bet $10 to win $140 total)
Uzbekistan: +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)
Group L winner
England: -1500 (bet $10 to win $10.67 total)
Ghana: +1700 (bet $10 to win $180 total)
Croatia: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)
Panama: +8000 (bet $10 to win $810 total)
With the largest World Cup field in the history of the tournament, 32 of the 48 teams will be fighting for a spot in the knockout stage.
With that, 66.6% of nations will advance out of the group stage this summer, which is a massive upgrade from 50% in past World Cups. Because of this, sportsbooks have adjusted with less favorable odds.
Prior to the start of the tournament, Spain, Argentina, Brazil, England and Germany entered with the strongest odds to advance from the group stage, supported by recent major-tournament success and talent-rich rosters.
All five nations remain heavily favored at -10000 to advance to the knockout round.
The Spaniards are the defending European Champions while the Argentinians are looking to win back-to-back titles. Germany has not made it out of the group stage in the last two World Cups. And then, of course, there’s Brazil, which has more titles than any country with five.
Mexico and the United States are the first two countries to advance to the knockout stage, by winning Groups A and D, respectively.
Let’s dive into the odds for each team to advance to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of June 22.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
Spain: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Argentina: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Brazil: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
England: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Germany: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Norway: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Ivory Coast: -10000 (bet $10 to win $10.10 total)
Portugal: -5000 (bet $10 to win $10.20 total)
France: -5000 (bet $10 to win $10.20 total)
Sweden: -5000 (bet $10 to win $10.20 total)
Belgium: -2500 (bet $10 to win $10.40 total)
Austria: -2500 (bet $10 to win $10.40 total)
Morocco: -2000 (bet $10 to win $10.50 total)
South Korea: -1800 (bet $10 to win $10.56 total)
Netherlands: -1400 (bet $10 to win $10.71 total)
Australia: -1400 (bet $10 to win $10.71 total)
Colombia: -1000 (bet $10 to win $11 total)
Japan: -650 (bet $10 to win $11.54 total)
Paraguay: -650 (bet $10 to win $11.54 total)
Egypt: -650 (bet $10 to win $11.54 total)
The U.S. men’s national team has won Group D and will advance to the knockout round (Getty Images).
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Ghana: -400 (bet $10 to win $12.50 total)
Senegal: -310 (bet $10 to win $13.23 total)
Croatia: -310 (bet $10 to win $13.23 total)
Scotland: -295 (bet $10 to win $13.39 total)
Cape Verde: -230 (bet $10 to win $14.35 total)
Algeria: -170 (bet $10 to win $15.88 total)
Iran: -165 (bet $10 to win $16.06 total)
DR Congo: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
Uruguay: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total)
Saudi Arabia: +175 (bet $10 to win $27.50 total)
Uzbekistan: +180 (bet $10 to win $28 total)
Czechia: +200 (bet $10 to win $30 total)
Ecuador: +300 (bet $10 to win $40 total)
South Africa: +450 (bet $10 to win $55 total)
Panama: +600 (bet $10 to win $70 total)
Jordan +1000 (bet $10 to win $110 total)
New Zealand: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total)
Iraq: +1200 (bet $10 to win $130 total)
Curaçao: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total)
What if I told you the only match without a goal on Monday produced the moment of the day? Yes, there were late equalizers and upsets on another four-match day at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but only one will go down in the tournament’s history books.
Here is everything you might have missed on Day 5 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
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Save Of The Day
Vozinha started playing soccer professionally in 2007 for his local club, Batuque, in Cape Verde. Nearly two decades later, the 40-year-old goalkeeper got the opportunity to show his class, recording a clean sheet against Spain. Six of his seven saves were from inside the box, and four of them were diving saves.
Assist Of The Day
Mohammad Mohebi will get the hero’s treatment for his decisive equalizer in the 64th minute, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the absolutely perfect cross from Ramin Rezaeian, which had just enough power to make it into the box and just enough finesse for Mohebi to get his head on it.
Goal Of The Day
Mo Salah got quite the birthday present from Emam Ashour, who settled Salah’s pass just outside the penalty box and hit a low-driven shot that Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Ahmed Shobeir couldn’t get a hand on despite his best effort. And the cherry on top? Salah was credited with the assist. Happy birthday, Mo!
Cape Verde’s Dream DebutThis is what the expanded tournament is all about. Against all odds, Cape Verde earned a point in its first-ever World Cup match by shutting out Spain, and the scenes after the match were something to behold, from the emotional players to the electric supporters.
Waffle House and Carolina barbecue, the Auburn War Eagle and Boston Harbor boat parties, ranch dressing and bacon-wrapped everything. Welcome to America.
The United States boasts a tremendously eclectic culture, and, let’s be honest, sometimes it’s super weird and inexplicable, even to some Americans. So many things across the 50 states — they each have their own flavor and culture too — are uniquely American, which World Cup fans around the world are discovering as they come to the U.S., perhaps for the first time, for the 48-team tournament this summer. And several fans and fan bases are going viral with their adventures, team pride and sharing of their traditions and cultures too.
A major highlight has been a couple of Germany fans, influencers Freddy and Fiago, who have been trekking around the U.S. and are thoroughly (and hilariously) documenting their adventures around the South and Midwest.
But there’s so much more to share and learn about (North) American culture. So we’re rounding up the best and funniest moments as fans learn about the wacky and delightful things the U.S. has to offer — along with their wonderfully unbridled support for their respective teams.
Norway Fans Doing the Viking Row at NY/NJ StadiumNorway’s fan base has taken over the spotlight throughout the World Cup, and the momentum doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon. The latest viral sensation features fans executing a massive Viking Row right inside NY/NJ Stadium during the broadcast.
The Viking Row holds importance as a vibrant nod to Norway’s historic heritage. On the global stage, it has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity, teamwork, and national pride as the team prepares to make a deep World Cup run.
Lumumba Is World Cup ReadyDR Congo kicked off its World Cup campaign with one of the tournament’s most memorable results so far: a 1-1 draw against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal. But the team was missing one of its key members: Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, better known as “Lumumba.”
One of DR Congo’s most recognizable supporters, Lumumba has become an iconic fan figure thanks to his trademark matchday routine. He doesn’t cheer or celebrate. Instead, he stands perfectly still for the entirety of the match.
After missing the match against Portugal due to health and travel complications, Lumumba appears to be on his way to the FIFA World Cup and ready to support DR Congo ahead of Tuesday’s matchup against Colombia in Guadalajara.
Welcome to the party, Lumumba!
Mo Salah Starts The PartyWhat happens when you lead Egypt to its first-ever World Cup victory? You celebrate. Duh.
After helping guide Egypt to a memorable 3-1 win over New Zealand on Sunday night, star striker Mo Salah hit the streets of Vancouver to celebrate with fans. As seen in the video below, Salah danced in the streets and joined in the jubilation of Egypt supporters.
Salah, who is a captain of the Egypt national team, scored the go-ahead goal in the 67th minute of Sunday’s victory.
Egypt is now in a strong position to win Group G, holding a two-point lead atop the standings while also owning a two-goal advantage in goal differential. Next up is a matchup against Iran on Friday night in Seattle.
Zen In Times Square?Yoga and Times Square don’t exactly go hand in hand. Yoga in Times Square with thousands of screaming Norwegian soccer fans really don’t go hand in hand.
A group of people gathered in Times Square on Monday morning for a sunrise yoga session, only to be joined by a sea of screaming Norway fans. Many of the fans even got in on the action, joining the group in various Yoga poses.
Not a bad way to start the day ahead of Norway’s Group I matchup against Senegal on Monday night at New York New Jersey Stadium.
The Messi DuckSometimes, there are goats wearing a Lionel Messi jersey. Other times, there are ducks.
Indeed, we have video evidence of a duck wearing a Messi jersey.
The Argentinian superstar striker is coming off a hat-trick performance in the country’s 3-0 win over Algeria on June 16, which was Argentina’s 2026 World Cup opener.
Next up for Messi and Argentina is a Group J matchup against Austria on June 22.
The Dutch Want Their CoffeeThere are just a few Netherlands supporters in Houston on Saturday, for the match against Sweden. It’s pretty easy to spot them in a crowd, too.
Now imagine that mass of orange heading somewhere, en masse. Not a bar, like Scotland and England have already done a number of times this tournament. But a coffee shop. Why coffee? Well, there’s a pretty good reason for that here.
The Netherlands playing in the same town that there’s a Dutch Bros.? Well that just makes sense.
Take Me Home, Country RoadsIt’s a party in the U.S.A.
Following a memorable 2-0 victory by the United States men’s national team over Australia, fans rose to their feet at Seattle Stadium and belted our John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”
It was a memorable scene that likely sent chills down the backs of many American soccer fans. The camera flashed from U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino hugging his players to star forward Christian Pulisic, who was forced to miss Friday’s match with a calf injury. The video concludes with defender Alex Freeman — who scored the second goal of the match following a lengthy video review that reversed the call on the field — hugging teammate Malik Tillman.
With the win, the U.S. will advance to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time they clinched a spot in the Round of 32 before the final contest of the opening round.
‘Rocky’ Road For Brazil FansAny visit to Philadelphia requires running up the steps in front of the city’s incredible art museum and paying homage to the Rocky Statue (often mistaken for honoring the iconic movies, but actually an homage to real-life boxer Rocky Marciano).
But what fans are learning is there is a “Rocky Curse” if they try to put a jersey on the statue, as Philly sports fans learned long ago. Ecuador fans learned earlier at the World Cup when they draped a jersey ahead of its World Cup opener loss to Ghana.
So Brazil’s fans are making sure not to follow that misstep. In so much, that their main supporters group warned not to put the team’s legendary yellow jersey on the statue. They even brought in security guards to make sure fans comply.
Not Just A Duck, But A Dog, TooMerlin the duck has been waddling around in a kit during the World Cup, but Mexico has another adorable animal dressed and ready for some football, too. Meet Osito, an eight-year-old rescue dog kitted out not just in a jersey, but in sunglasses designed to look like a pair of Mexican flags, too.
Osito sits in the back of his owner’s bicycle, in a custom dog-bed attachment, riding around making deliveries. But before Mexico’s World Cup match on Thursday the pair stopped and enticed those passing by with the promise of a dog in sunglasses. That’s just giving the people what they want.
Meet The Tartan Army’s Newest MemberMexico isn’t the only country that added a duck to their World Cup fan base. Scotland joined the fun ahead of their second group stage game against Morocco at Boston Stadium on Friday.
As the Tartan Army’s march took over the streets of Providence, Rhode Island, a duck famously known as “Dawn” or “Donny the Duck” joined the fun with a Scotland flag attached to its back. A week prior, Merlin the duck was seen parading the streets with Mexico’s fan base for their group stage game with South Korea.
The Tartan Army is famously known for their massive Scotland national team fan base that travels the world in support of the team. Following the Tartan Army’s outing at Fenway Park, they recently took over a Boston Brewery and sparked conversations about a sister city partnership between Boston and Glasgow, the capital of Scotland.
While Scotland’s tournament fate resides in two more group stage games, expect to see plenty more of Dawn leading the Tartan Army.
Australia Fans Have Taken Over T-Mobile ParkThe World Cup excitement is taking over Major League Baseball stadiums, and now Australia is getting in on the action.
Australia has officially taken over T-Mobile Park in Seattle, just a day before it faces the United States men’s national soccer team in World Cup action. Fans are filling the stands, celebrating, dancing, and cheering as they completely take over the section.
With what is expected to be a close matchup on Friday night, it appears Australia’s fans are ready to back their squad and match the United States’ energy leading into the game.
Flying Into Seattle In StyleWorld Cup Fever is taking over North America and American Airlines decided to get in on the fun.
On a Thursday morning flight from Los Angeles to Seattle — the host city for the U.S. men’s national team’s second World Cup group-stage match — every seat was draped with a US soccer jersey and a World Cup-themed care package.
Travelers were able to keep the jerseys, as well as the care packages, and were even wished a “Happy World Cup” over the loudspeaker before disembarking.
The U.S. men’s national team is set to take on Australia at 3 p.m. ET Friday at Seattle Stadium.
Croatia Fan Makes Texas Rookie MistakeTexas is known for having some of the best BBQ in the world, but while the taste is undeniable, you’ve got to know your limits.
One Croatia fan learned his limits the hard way after consuming way too much Texas BBQ during his time in downtown Dallas. The result? No sleep ahead of Croatia’s big matchup against England on Wednesday (4 p.m. ET on FOX).
“Everything is so big. The food is great here, especially the Texas barbeque,” the Croatia supporter said. “We ate so much, we couldn’t sleep all night.”
A classic Texas rookie mistake. Hopefully this fan learned his lesson!
Giddy Up! England Fans Take In RodeoWhen in Texas, you have to take in what’s one of the must-do traditions – a rodeo at the Ft. Worth Stockyards!
Located near Dallas Stadium, where England takes on Croatia on Wednesday, fans from both teams packed the arena for some barrel racing and calf roping.
It’s also likely those cowpokes heard a rousing and well-sauced rendition of “Sweet Caroline” from supporters of the Three Lions.
Argentina Fans Bow Together to Honor Lionel Messi’s Historic NightLionel Messi made history on Tuesday night against Algeria, scoring a hat trick while also tying Germany’s Miroslav Klose for the all-time men’s FIFA World Cup goals record.
After the game, Argentina fans were seen bowing together in admiration of Messi. It was more than a 3-0 victory; it was another moment that showed fans around the world are witnessing the greatness that makes Messi so special.
Messi was already widely regarded as an all-time great, but his 2022 World Cup win arguably cemented his case as one of the best the sport has ever seen. Now, as Argentina pursues another title, fans across the stadium continue to show their admiration for a legacy still unfolding.
Row, Row, Row Up The EscalatorsNorway’s fans have arrived for their team’s opening game against Iraq in Boston, and they’re flaunting their Viking culture in big ways. Or, maybe just in unique ways.
These fans decided to ride up the escalators from Boston’s South Station by rowing up them. It may not be the type of longship that their ancestors used to crisscross the Northern Atlantic, but at least it makes taking public transportation a bit memorable.
Cape Verde’s Goat CelebrationCape Verde’s stunning draw against Spain was worth celebrating (unless you are Spain). It was the debut for the former in the World Cup, and took one of the tournament favorites to the limit. It’s one of the best stories of the early tournament so far.
And now that story includes fans celebrating with goats. Not goat, singular, but plural.
Tartan Army’s Traffic ConesDepending on where you are or what your algorithm looks like, you may have seen Scotland fans putting orange traffic cones on statues. And their heads.
One fan explained it simply to The Providence Journal: “So essentially, there’s a statue in Glasgow where some Scottish people, for a long time, have put a traffic cone on top of it. And it’s just become a bit of an icon.”
Tartan Army Takes Over FenwayThe Scotland men’s national team might have left the Boston area for Charlotte following its 1-0 win over Haiti on Saturday, but much of the Tartan Army remained. Countless Scotland fans were at Fenway Park for Sunday’s Texas Rangers-Boston Red Sox game, taking over America’s Most Beloved Ballpark.
Tidying Up After A Thrilling MatchOne of the most cherished World Cup fan traditions has now made its first appearance at this edition of the World Cup.
As they have at previous international tournaments, supporters of Japan helped pick up litter in the stands following a game – this time after a 2-2 thriller against the Netherlands at Dallas Stadium.
The tradition of Japanese fans helping tidy up the venues after games — which follows a Japanese saying of “A bird that flies never leaves a trace” — became prominent when the men’s team made its World Cup debut in 1998.
The beloved gesture even compelled New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston, who is spending the summer as a FOX Sports digital correspondent covering the World Cup, to participate in the effort.
The Oranje Army Shows OutThe scenes in and around Dallas Stadium were nearly all orange before and during the Netherlands’ draw against Japan on Sunday. The Oranje Army took over Dallas, with fans marching across the city.
The Oranje Army was more than the people in Dallas, too. One Oranje kitten went viral during Sunday’s match.
Curaçao’s Biggest World Cup MomentThe underdog of underdogs, Curaçao made its World Cup debut Sunday against Group E foe Germany, and while it lost pretty convincingly, 7-1, it had a special moment. Early in the first half of its tournament opener, Curaçao scored its first World Cup goal, thanks to Livano Comenencia, whose shot deflected off Germany captain Joshua Kimmich and found the back of the net.
Fans absolutely erupted, players went wild and 78-year-old Curaçao coach Dick Advocaat couldn’t believe it. What a wonderful moment for Curaçao fans in Houston in their team’s World Cup opener.
Mexico’s Biggest (Non-Human) FanUPDATE: The duck’s name is apparently Merlin, and it’s an absolute star.
OK, so this technically isn’t happening in the United States; it’s wonderfully delightful, and we’re here to have fun. The world has a responsibility to protect this duck, who is clearly one of Mexico’s best supporters.
Free Salsa, An Honorable TraditionFor one confused Japanese fan, it seemed odd to receive chips and salsa while visiting a Mexican restaurant without asking for them. As he wrote: “We have not earned these.”
But that’s the beauty. They are free. And they are bottomless.
So three baskets later, even before his actual food came, a valuable lesson – in courtesy, in life, in honor – was learned. You can agree that this insightful fan has most certainly earned his salsa.
Ecuador Gets RockyWhen in the City of Brotherly Love, there is no shortage of historical or cultural sites to visit. But rallying at the iconic Rocky steps is always a special experience, especially when you’re in Philadelphia to watch your team compete in the World Cup.
*cue Gonna Fly Now*
Scotland Slides Into The World CupScotland’s mighty Tartan Army (as the team’s traveling fan base is known) is making itself right at home in Boston, including apparently finding — and loving — the infamous slide.
Times Square TakeoverIt’s the city that never sleeps, and it’s the fan base that is always partying.
Ahead of Brazil’s opening World Cup group-stage match against Morocco, fans of the five-time champions took over Times Square in New York City.
The last time Brazil played at a World Cup tournament in the U.S. was in 1994, when the team ended up winning it all. So these fans are expecting another stateside trophy. And with Brazil’s last win coming in 2002, there are high hopes that the streak can be snapped this summer.
But don’t count out Morocco, which will be aiming for another semifinal run after 2022. Even rapper French Montana joined the party in Times Square to hype up the fans of the Atlas Lions.
Did Rod Stewart Cancel Concert To Watch Scotland?Do you think you miss Rod Stewart?
Some Southern Californian natives might have felt that way this weekend. Stewart canceled his concert in San Diego on Friday night, roughly 40 minutes before he was scheduled to appear on stage, due to illness. However, Stewart was seen at Scotland’s win over Haiti at Boston Stadium on Saturday night. Stewart even posted a video of himself flying to the Boston area ahead of the match on Instagram, while a representative for Stewart told the San Diego Union-Tribune that his illness was genuine.
Ranch Dressing And Chicken + WafflesWho doesn’t love ranch? Come on, it’s absolutely the best. Feel free to disagree, but you’d also be wrong.
An American staple:
Scotland Fans Livin’ It UpScotland fans seem to be having so much fun in Boston. They’ve also taken over Boston Harbor, complete with a party barge.
The fans even had one of Boston’s finest doing some keepie-uppies – pretty impressive skills there by that police officer!
Earlier this week, one Scotland fan shared his experience trying Carolina barbecue for the first time, and apparently it went so well it’s ruined his life.
He also found Buc-ee’s for the first time. Seems like it went over pretty well.
Buc-ee’s is leaning in, too.
German Fan Gets War Eagle TreatmentOn the penultimate day before the start of the World Cup, German influencer Freddy wound up watching Argentina’s win over Iceland in Tuesday’s friendly at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium.
While Freddy saw Lionel Messi score a goal, he was more mesmerized by the SEC experience. The Auburn War Eagle is included.
He also made it to Waffle House and Taco Bell, among other iconic restaurants.
One of the best parts about Freddy’s trip to Waffle House in Georgia is that he didn’t even go during traditional breakfast hours, as he sat down at 1 a.m and opted for hash browns rather than waffles. But this is really the best way to experience Waffle House anyway.
Everything Is Bigger, Gulps IncludedDrink up.
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In a game that featured quality goals and plenty of emotion, New Zealand and Iran played to a very entertaining 2-2 draw on Monday night at Los Angeles Stadium.
New Zealand took the lead twice through a stellar combination of Chris Wood and Elijah Just, but Iran was able to respond well twice with Ramin Rezaeian scoring and assisting in an inspired effort.
Here are my four takeaways from the match:
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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Iran controlled the game early and then again after the first half hydration break, but it was Chris Wood who gave New Zealand hope throughout the game. Wood is widely regarded as his country’s best-ever player, as he leads the national team with 45 goals and 90 appearances. His experience dates back to playing as a teenager at the 2010 World Cup.
Wood, 34, is still playing at a very high level, having scored nine goals in World Cup qualifying, and he is just one year removed from scoring 20 goals in the 2024-25 Premier League season with Nottingham Forest.
In this game, New Zealand’s plan demanded that Wood not just be a goal-scoring threat, but also be very effective with his hold-up play. This is what kept New Zealand in the game. New Zealand had to play with most of its players sitting deep to defend. The Kiwis were able to generate offense by getting the ball up the field to Wood, having him hold up the ball while his teammates moved from defensive positions and into the attack.
While Elijah Just scored both goals, it was Wood’s effort on both plays that made it all possible.
Wood was extremely strong with his hold-up play, and he was the most important reason why New Zealand’s attack was so effective.
That should not downplay the accomplishments of Just. The 26-year-old right-winger is coming off a great season with Motherwell in Scotland, where he was one of four finalists nominated for the PFA Scotland’s Premiership player of the year award.
Just was great with his runs into the box and playing off the hold-up passes from Wood.
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
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There is no escaping the reality of world events, such as the wars in Iran and in the Middle East, obviously impacting this Iran squad significantly. The team has taken some steps to deal with this, namely moving its headquarters from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico.
One on-pitch impact of those conflicts was the suspension of Iran’s domestic league at the end of February. With 17 players on the team’s 26-man World Cup roster based with Iranian clubs, there were a lot of questions about whether Iran would be prepared and in-form for the tournament.
But Iran’s domestic squad played inspired soccer, and no one more than Ramin Rezaeian, who scored the first equalizer with an outstanding individual play. The 36-year-old fullback played Shahriar Moghanlou into the box and kept moving into it. Moghanlou had an attempt on goal, but the ball then fell back to Rezaeian for the score.
On Iran’s second goal, Razaeian sent in a perfect delivery to set up Mohammad Mohebi for the second equalizer. Rezaeian plays for Esteghlal and is among the national team players in Iran who haven’t played much soccer in recent months but were likely motivated by the adversity.
Iran was also given a huge boost by having this game in Los Angeles, which is the home to the largest Iranian community outside of Iran. There are approximately 230,000 Iranians living in the greater Los Angeles area, and the crowd was significantly behind the team.
(Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
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There was a lot of talk about how hydration breaks would affect the flow of games at this World Cup. It is a very different concept in the sport that has effects far beyond letting players get drinks to cool down. It allows teams to regroup, change tactics, refocus, and it also deflates momentum. Teams no longer have to play through their problems in the early parts of each half. Instead, they can play for the hydration break.
In the first half, the hydration break changed everything. After Iran started off on the front foot, New Zealand then began to have the better of chances up to the break. Then after the break, New Zealand’s momentum was gone. Iran changed its approach, was once again the better team and scored the first equalizer in that momentum shift.
In the second half, New Zealand benefited from the break. In the minutes before, Iran looked on the verge of moving ahead for good, as New Zealand’s defense looked set to collapse. But the break allowed New Zealand head coach Darren Bazeley to make adjustments and give his players a break. For the remainder of the game, New Zealand’s defense was far more organized and were able to limit Iran’s chances.
Before the tournament, it was expected that Belgium and Egypt would be the top-2 teams in the group while New Zealand and Iran would push for third place. With Egypt and Belgium playing to a 1-1 draw earlier in the team, all four teams now have one point.
It was an exciting and well-played game, but the lack of a winner still makes it very difficult for these teams to advance. One of these teams will finish inside the top three, but without a win, it is unlikely either will be one of the eight third-place teams that will move on.
Both teams must get back to the drawing board and find a way to pull off an upset against an even better opponent. Iran plays Belgium next while New Zealand takes on Egypt. Neither Iran nor New Zealand have ever advanced to the knockout stages at the FIFA World Cup. It is not out of the question if it happens in 2026, but it is now going to take something special.
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France and Senegal meet in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. ET from New York New Jersey Stadium, New York New Jersey.
France, ranked third by FIFA, are appearing at their 17th World Cup, with their best finish a championship run in both 1998 and 2018. Senegal enter Group I ranked 15th by FIFA, appearing at their fourth World Cup, with their best finish a quarterfinal run in 2002.
Below, we’ll give you all the details you need to know about how to watch this game.
The GROUP OF DEATH! Alexi Lalas and David Mosse dive into Group I featuring the co-favorites, France. This is a star studded affair as well with Norway’s Erling Haaland, France’s Kylian Mbappé, and Senegal’s Sadio Mane taking the stage. Tune in daily for a new group as we speed toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicking off June 11th on FOX! Presented by @Zillow #Zillow
Learn more about France vs. Senegal and check the full FIFA World Cup schedule on FOX Sports!
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