subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now

Liverpool to sign Dutch striker Gakpo from PSV ...

Liverpool have agreed to sign the Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven, the Eredivisie club said on Monday.

By Reuters

'French didn't mention this': ref hits back at ...

The World Cup final ended nearly a week ago but the drama around it continued as the match referee showed a photo on ...

By Reuters

MARC STRYDOM | At the temple of the World Cup, we felt godliness on Sunday

Those who watched got to see and feel and be part of and almost touch godliness. It was apt that the 2022 World Cup ...

By Marc Strydom

Fifa investigating how celebrity chef got onto World Cup final pitch

Fifa has launched an investigation into how individuals gained "undue access" to the pitch after the World Cup final ...

By Reuters

Goalkeeper Onana quits Cameroon national team

Cameroon goalkeeper Andre Onana has announced his retirement from international football a month after a fallout with ...

By Reuters

Brazil soccer star Pele to spend Christmas in hospital as cancer advances

Brazilian soccer legend Pele's cancer has advanced and he requires care related to renal and cardiac dysfunction, ...

By Reuters

‘Objective of African country winning the World ...

President of Confederation of African Football (Caf) Patrice Motsepe said the objective of an African nation winning ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Messi extends contract with PSG — report

World Cup winner Lionel Messi has reached a deal with Paris St Germain to stay with the club for at least the 2023-24 ...

By Reuters

Messi the greatest even without World Cup heroics, says Guardiola

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has no doubt that Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time and his opinion ...

By Reuters

Five lessons from the World Cup

The 2022 Fifa World Cup has come and gone with Argentina and their talisman Lionel Messi crowned champions after a ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Argentina’s World Cup heroes airlifted in helicopters as street party ...

Argentina's World Cup heroes had to abandon an open-top bus parade in Buenos Aires on Tuesday as millions of ecstatic ...

By Reuters

All the World Cup groups, fixtures and results

Here is a full list of the groups and fixtures for the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar.

By TimesLIVE Sports Staff

All the Qatar 2022 World Cup squads

Here is a full list of all the 26-man squads of the 32 teams taking part in the 2022 World Cup.

By Sports staff

All the World Cup groups profiled and in video

TimeLIVE has profiled all eight groups for the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022.

By Sports staff

WATCH | A comprehensive video guide to Qatar's eight World Cup stadiums

Qatar has spent a fortune on its gleaming stadiums for the 2022 World Cup that starts on Sunday.

By Reuters

WATCH | Scenes out of this world as four million ...

Up to a million supporters are reported to have taken to the streets of Buenos Aires as world champions Argentina ...

By Marc Strydom and Reuters

Argentine tattooists swamped by demand for Messi tributes

Since Argentina's World Cup win turned Buenos Aires into a massive street party, tattoo artists have been hard at work ...

By Reuters

French federation condemns racist abuse of players after World Cup final ...

The French Football Federation has condemned the online racist abuse directed towards its players and pledged to take ...

By Reuters

PODCAST | South Africa cannot continue without VAR: Victor Gomes

Video assistant referee (VAR) has to come to South Africa, and the reality is at some stage it will, South Africa’s ...

By Sports Staff

WATCH | Crowds gather in Buenos Aires as Messi steps off plane with trophy

Huge crowds were gathering as Argentina stepped off the plane back home in Buenos Aires with the World Cup trophy at ...

By Marc Strydom and Reuters

After the controversy, Qatar delivered a World ...

Every continent was represented in the last 16 for the first time

By Martyn Herman

Pitch perfect: World Cup soccer fields made of sterner stuff

The resilient grass used in Qatar has opened up another path of innovation

Tanya Farber
Senior science reporter

WATCH | France's defeated World Cup stars return to heroes' welcome in ...

France's national soccer team returned from Qatar to the acclaim of huge crowds in Paris on Monday, after their heroic ...

By Reuters

France's Coman, Tchouameni racially abused after World Cup final defeat

France forward Kingsley Coman and midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni have been subjected to online racist abuse after ...

By Reuters

'I would have given two cups — one for Kylian, one for Leo': heartbreak ...

France forward Kylian Mbappe put in a performance for the ages in the World Cup final against Argentina, but it proved ...

By Fernando Kallas and Rohith Nair

WATCH | The five most memorable moments of the ...

A World Cup dogged by controversy in its buildup will go down as one of the most memorable in history, capped by what ...

By Sports staff

Magical Messi hoists World Cup after final for the ages, and becomes Goat

As fireworks exploded and some 80,000 people roared, Lionel Messi smiled. His Argentina soccer shirt covered by the ...

By Ossian Shine

‘Hall of shame’: Twitter roasts France’s Dembélé for going missing in final

France winger Ousmane Dembélé has been slayed on social media for his poor performance as his team lost Sunday's ...

By Marc Strydom

We had to suffer to win the World Cup, say Argentina players

Argentina were made to suffer before landing their first World Cup title in 36 years, having twice squandered a lead, ...

By Karolos Grohmann

Argentina win greatest World Cup final against France on penalties

Argentina won their third World Cup in extraordinary style on Sunday, beating France 4-2 in a penalty shootout after ...

By Mitch Phillips

WATCH | Buenos Aires heaves with joy at Argentina ...

Argentina's capital Buenos Aires erupted in scenes of delirium as Lionel Messi steered their national team to a 4-2 ...

By Marc Strydom

Messi wins Golden Ball, Mbappé takes Golden Boot after incredible final

Lionel Messi not only realised his dream of finally lifting the World Cup at 35 with Argentina's 4-2 penalties win ...

By Marc Strydom

WORLD CUP FINAL WRAP | Argentina win on penalties to be champions of the ...

Follow the action as Argentina line up against France in the 2022 Fifa World Cup final at Lusail Stadium in Qatar at ...

By Marc Strydom

Starting XIs: Di Maria starts for Argentina, usual suspects in for France

Angel Di Maria is starting for Argentina in their World Cup final clash against France as coach Lionel Scaloni opted ...

By Reuters

Messi and Mbappé's battle for Golden Boot and Ball epic subplot to final

As if the battle of giants Argentina and France, who have progressed through epic contests to reach the final in one of ...

By Marc Strydom

WATCH | Outrage as Danish TV compares Morocco ...

A comment made by a news anchor on Danish TV comparing the Moroccan football team at the 2022 Qatar World Cup to ...

By Marc Strydom

WATCH | Argentina champions? ... Sundowns pick their final winners

It seems Argentina will win Sunday's World Cup final against France at Doha's Lusail Stadium (5pm SA time), if the ...

By Marc Strydom

OPINION | Perhaps football owes genius Messi the World Cup

He doesn’t have a divine or birth right to it but a strong argument can be made by football purists that somehow the ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

All France players start training ahead of World Cup final

France's Raphael Varane, Ibrahima Konate and Kingsley Coman, who missed training on Friday with a virus, were present ...

By Reuters

Scaloni tight-lipped on Argentina line-up ahead of World Cup final

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni kept his cards close to his chest when quizzed about his likely lineup as he prepares to ...

By Fernando Kallas

Croatia beat Morocco 2-1 to finish third in World ...

Croatia beat Morocco 2-1 in the World Cup third-place playoff on Saturday to secure a top three finish in the ...

By Reuters

Argentina's Batistuta does not mind losing goal record to Messi

Former Argentina international Gabriel Batistuta said he was happy to see Lionel Messi overtake him as the country's ...

By Reuters

Virus-hit France focused on finishing the job against Argentina — Deschamps

France have not been overly troubled by the virus that has hit several players in the past few days, coach Didier ...

By Reuters

In Messi's hometown, hope builds ahead of World Cup final

In Rosario, the Argentine city where Lionel Messi grew up, hope and excitement are rising that their hometown star can ...

By Reuters

Morocco's World Cup success boosts academy that gave players a start

At a soccer academy near Rabat, 100 young Moroccans hope to emulate the success of alumni who took the national team to ...

By Reuters

France players hit by colds as Argentina final ...

Several France players have caught colds, the French Football Federation said, as they prepare for the World Cup final ...

By Reuters

Fifa chief Gianni Infantino confirms 32 team Club World Cup in future

The 2025 Club World Cup will feature 32 teams, making the format similar to the Soccer World Cup, Fifa president Gianni ...

By Reuters

Poland's Marciniak to referee World Cup final

Poland's Szymon Marciniak will referee Sunday's World Cup final between Argentina and France, the Polish FA said on ...

By Reuters

France or Argentina will lift the trophy but Morocco are heroes of World ...

It was good while it lasted. And it lasted very long - longer than any African campaign at the Fifa World Cup ever. It ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Goalless virtuoso Griezmann happy to put in hard yards for France

France's Antoine Griezmann proved once again that he is the ultimate team player with another virtuoso performance to ...

By Reuters

ANALYSIS | Tactical masterplan, and grit, take ...

Mike Tyson claimed everybody has a plan, until they get punched in the face, which is precisely what happened to ...

By Julien Pretot

'I think the world as a whole is proud of this Moroccan team': Regragui

Morocco leave Qatar disappointed but filled with pride at having written their names into the history books by becoming ...

By Simon Jennings

WATCH | Paris celebrates, but reports of clashes, after France beat Morocco

Supporters poured into Paris's freezing Champs-Elysees boulevard on Wednesday after a World Cup semifinal between ...

By Reuters and Sports Staff

Mbappé-inspired France just to good for brave Lions of Morocco

France were ultimately too good for a brave, spirited Morocco who missed costly chances as they took the game to the ...

By Reuters

France open as bookies' slight favourites over Argentina for final

France opened as a slight favorite to deny Lionel Messi's his elusive World Cup title after eliminating Morocco 2-0 in ...

By Reuters

This is how Morocco can beat France: ex-Chiefs ...

Muhsin Ertugral believes Morocco should stick to the tactical ploy that has tactics that have worked wonders for them ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

From parallel conferences to Caf links: Four SA politicians who have taken ...

Morocco's World Cup feats have won them many fans, but also reopened old criticisms of the country.

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

WATCH | Motsepe jumps out of chair celebrating Morocco at the World Cup

The CaF president put aside South Africa's frosty relationship with Morocco for a moment, which saw many South Africans ...

By Sports Staff

ANALYSIS | Messi at his magical best helping Argentina crush Croatia

The most clinical of smash-and-grabs kept Lionel Messi on track for his date with destiny and broke Croatian hearts as ...

By Ossian Shine

We are lucky to see the greatest player in our lifetime in the World Cup ...

Al-Ahli Saudi coach Pitso Mosimane has paid tribute to Lionel Messi for steering Argentina to the 2022 World Cup final.

By Marc Strydom

Four reasons why many South Africans will refuse ...

When Morocco take on France in the World Cup semifinal at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor on Wednesday night, a ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

WATCH | Thousands flood Buenos Aires streets as Argentina reach final

Thousands of Argentines filled the streets of central Buenos Aires with blue-and-white banners on Tuesday as they ...

By Reuters

Messi confirms Qatar final will be his last World Cup game

Lionel Messi has confirmed he will play his last World Cup game when Argentina take on France or Morocco in Sunday's ...

By Reuters

Messi and Alvarez steer Argentina past Croatia into World Cup final

Argentina's Julian Alvarez scored twice and earned a penalty converted by Lionel Messi as they swept past Croatia 3-0 ...

By Reuters

Morocco take Africa into new territory in its World Cup history

African teams have claimed several giant-killing results at World Cups but nothing like the unprecedented run of ...

By Mark Gleeson

WATCH | Morocco's secret weapon: their moms

Forget the wags — for Africa's heroic semifinal entrants Morocco, their moms have been the secret weapon at the World ...

By Marc Strydom

France favourites but Morocco are the 'Rocky Balboa of the World Cup'

After putting Belgium, Portugal and Spain to the sword in Qatar, Morocco are looking to bring another football ...

By MARK GLEESON

Argentina have worked out where to hurt Croatia, says Scaloni

Argentina will trust their system when they face Croatia in the World Cup semi-finals and believe they have worked out ...

By Rohith Nair

All the remaining World Cup fixtures and times

All the remaining World Cup fixtures and times.

By Sports Staff

COMMENT | Safa’s ‘funny valley’ has a mountain to climb to scale heights ...

Morocco’s World Cup success has shone a bright spotlight on Safa’s inadequacies and lack of productivity

By Marc Strydom

Tearful Ronaldo the lasting image of Portugal ...

Cristiano Ronaldo running to the tunnel in tears and as desolate as the football world has ever seen him will be the ...

By Reuters

EDITORIAL | Love them or hate them, Morocco are flying the African flag

As the World Cup unfolds and Morocco continue to defy the odds, Africa has a reason to celebrate

Tough Croatia the roadblock between Argentina and World Cup final dream

Argentina, led by superstar Lionel Messi, came into the World Cup as one of the favourites but they face a big ...

By Karolos Grohmann

Roger De Sa waits on Iran's FA to see if he and Queiroz still have a job

Roger De Sa's future with the Iran national team is hanging in the balance and he says he will resume talks with the ...

By SPORTS REPORTER

Croatia have no plan to man-mark Argentina superstar Messi

Croatia will not attempt to stop Argentina superstar Lionel Messi by man-marking him but instead will focus on ...

By Karolos Grohmann

Magnificent Morocco made history with age-old ...

Whatever happens against France, there can be no denying Morocco have made a statement for the return to football as a ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Royal Air Maroc plans 30 flights to carry Moroccan fans to semifinal

Morocco's Royal Air Maroc will operate 30 special flights to carry soccer fans from Casablanca to Doha for the ...

By Reuters

'Why shouldn't we dream?': Regragui urges Morocco to aim for the trophy

Walid Regragui's dream of his Morocco team becoming Africa's first World Cup semi-finalists came true on Saturday but ...

By Hritika Sharma

'There’s no hiding from it, it hurts,' says England's 'gutted' Harry Kane

Harry Kane said he is "absolutely gutted" and admitted there is "no hiding from it, it hurts", in response to his ...

By Reuters and Sports Staff

'Spirit of 2018': France driven by 'collective force' as old guard lead way

Didier Deschamps made only one late substitution as France beat England 2-1 in a nerve-racking World Cup quarterfinal ...

By Julien Pretot

WATCH: Moroccan ecstasy at World Cup history ...

Moroccan fans exploded in joy on Saturday as their team became the first from any African country to reach a World Cup ...

By Ahmed Eljechtimi and Andrew Mills

Giroud header sends France past England into World Cup semifinals

A brilliant Olivier Giroud header 12 minutes from time kept France on course to retain their World Cup title with a 2-1 ...

By Reuters

Morocco write World Cup history as they reach semifinals

Morocco wrote World Cup history last night as the first African and Arab country to reach the tournament’s semi-finals, ...

By Reuters

MOROCCAN MARVEL | Morocco beat Portugal to go through to World Cup ...

Morocco extended their dream run at the Fifa World Cup in Qatar on Saturday as they out-thought and outfought Portugal ...

By Reuters

World Cup 2022 top goal scorer: who could win Golden Boot?

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar has entered the knockout phase and one of the top honours players will be competing ...

By Reuters

Maradona is watching us from above and pushing ...

Lionel Messi said Argentina have felt the presence of the late, great Diego Maradona throughout their World Cup ...

By Reuters

Neymar says he is unsure if he will play again with Brazil

Brazil's Neymar said on Friday he was unsure if he would play again for the national team after their heartbreaking ...

By Reuters

US sportswriter Grant Wahl dies after 'acute distress' covering World Cup ...

Well-known US soccer journalist Grant Wahl died on Friday after suffering "acute distress" while covering a match at ...

By Reuters

Today's World Cup quarter fixtures: Morocco, France in quest for semis

Saturday's World Cup quarterfinal fixtures.

By Sports Staff

Argentina beat Netherlands on penalties to reach World Cup semifinals

Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez saved penalties from Virgil van Dijk and Steven Berghuis before Lautaro Martinez ...

By Reuters

Leave Ronaldo alone, says Portugal coach Santos ...

Cristiano Ronaldo was upset when he was left out of Portugal's starting lineup against Switzerland but the conversation ...

By Reuters

Croatia beat Brazil on penalties to reach semifinals

Dominik Livakovic saved Rodrygo's first penalty and Marquinhos hit the post to give Croatia a 4-2 shoot-out win over ...

By Reuters

Moroccans scramble for flights ahead of World Cup quarterfinal against ...

Moroccans scrambled on Friday to get seats on the seven additional flights state carrier Royal Air Maroc (RAM) ...

By Reuters

Explainer: Why Morocco might always have been seen as Africa's best team ...

In the look-ahead to the 22nd edition of the global football spectacle in Qatar it was generally agreed that Senegal ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo and Marc Strydom

Today's World Cup quarterfinal fixtures: Brazil, Argentina seek glory

Friday's World Cup quarterfinal fixtures.

By Sports Staff

Dalic decries 'final before the final' as Croatia ...

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic wishes their World Cup last-eight clash against five-time world champions Brazil was instead ...

By Reuters

Brazil, France favourites entering World Cup quarterfinals

Brazil will enter the quarterfinals with the same status it did to start the event last month - as favourites to win ...

By Reuters

The other Lionel, Argentina's Scaloni, pits wits against Van Gaal

It is no secret that Argentina's dreams of a third World Cup triumph lie largely on the shoulders of Lionel Messi but ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Croatia's Lovren looks to put nightmares against Neymar to bed

As Croatia prepare to face World Cup favourites Brazil in their quarterfinal clash on Friday, defender Dejan Lovren is ...

By Fernando Kallas

Netherlands skipper Van Dijk dodges questions on Argentina's Messi

Virgil van Dijk deflected several questions about his looming confrontation with Lionel Messi but admitted the ...

By Mark Gleeson

'Terrifying' Brazil near full-strength for ...

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic described their World Cup quarter-final opponents Brazil as "terrifying" after the ...

By Fernando Kallas

Germany to stick with Flick despite dismal World Cup performance

Germany coach Hansi Flick will remain in his position despite his side's dismal performance at the 2022 World Cup, the ...

By Reuters

Hazard quits international football after Belgium's World Cup exit

Belgium captain Eden Hazard announced his retirement from international soccer aged 31 on Wednesday after his ...

By Reuters

'Mr Avocado Head' Regragui has Morocco daring to dream

Thanks to Walid Regragui, the coach who has made Morocco the first Arab nation to reach the World Cup quarterfinals, ...

By Shady Amir

Cameroon football boss Samuel Eto'o apologises for 'violent altercation'

Samuel Eto'o, the former Cameroon striker and current president of the country's football federation, has apologised ...

By Reuters

'Not in my wildest dreams': Ramos stunned by ...

Portugal's Goncalo Ramos was as surprised as anyone at being named in the starting lineup for Tuesday's 6-1 hammering ...

By Martin Petty

All the World Cup quarterfinal fixtures

All the World Cup quarterfinal fixtures.

By Sports Staff

Africa on fire: Morocco beat Spain on penalties to reach World Cup quarters

Morocco sensationally dumped Spain out of the World Cup in a last-16 penalty shootout on Tuesday.

By Reuters

WATCH | Cameroon boss Samuel Eto'o allegedly in altercation at World Cup

Samuel Eto'o, the former Cameroon striker and current president of the country's football federation, was involved in ...

By Reuters

Hat-trick hero Ramos helps Portugal thrash Swiss and reach quarters

Portugal's Goncalo Ramos scored a hat-trick on his first World Cup start to help his side demolish Switzerland 6-1 on ...

By Reuters

Germany team director Bierhoff quits after World ...

Germany team director Oliver Bierhoff has become the first casualty of their first-round World Cup exit in Qatar after ...

By Karolos Grohmann

ANALYSIS | Like watching Brazil again as Seleção capture spirit of '70 and ...

Brazil produced a footballing masterclass as they hammered South Korea 4-1 in their World Cup last-16 match that ...

By Reuters and Sports Staff

Brazil's Neymar feared for his World Cup after ankle injury

Brazil striker Neymar said he had feared the World Cup might be over for him after hobbling off in his first match in ...

By Reuters

Sublime Brazil crush South Korea with attacking samba masterclass

World Cup favourites Brazil produced a performance to delight fans and terrify potential opponents on Monday as they ...

By Reuters

Kalusha Bwalya calls for consistency in treatment ...

The Zambian football legend says the expectations placed on African coaches are often unrealistic and foreign coaches ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Keeper Kivakovic hero of the shoot-out as Croatia beat Japan on penalties

Croatia goalkeeper Dominic Kivakovic saved penalties from Takumi Minamino, Kaoru Mitoma and Maya Yoshida before Mario ...

By Reuters

Morocco's 'avocado head' Regragui plots another World Cup shock

Spain will be favourites to beat Morocco in the World Cup last 16 on Tuesday but the teams' experiences in the group ...

By Shady Amir

Near full-strength Portugal primed for Switzerland test

Portugal coach Fernando Santos has been boosted by news that key midfielder Otavio should be fully fit and ready to ...

By Fernando Kallas

Bellingham has gone to another level for England, says Southgate

England manager Gareth Southgate already knew Jude Bellingham was something special but even he has been surprised at ...

By Martyn Herman

OPINION | When Lions were needed Senegal’s Cissé ...

For all his brave and inspiring pre-World Cup talk about the need for Africa to start dreaming much bigger than just ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

ANALYSIS | Age no issue in France's deadly Mbappé-Giroud bromance

Thirteen years separate France strikers Kylian Mbappe and Olivier Giroud but their devastating double act in the 3-1 ...

By William Schomberg

With World Cup going well, Qatar determined to host 2036 Games

The Gulf state has the infrastructure – the stadiums, the metro and a new airport

By Ossian Shine

Mané magic was the missing ingredient as Senegal sunk

The devastating loss of Sadio Mané to injury was something Senegal manfully recovered from in reaching the last-16 at ...

By MARK GLEESON

England surge past Senegal to set up France ...

England overcame a pedestrian start to surge to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Senegal on Sunday as goals by Jordan ...

By Reuters

Record Giroud, sublime Mbappé send France into quarters with Poland win

Olivier Giroud's record goal and Kylian Mbappe's moments of sheer brilliance sent defending champions France into the ...

By Julien Pretot

Brazil great Pelé not under palliative care, daughter says

Brazil great Pelé has not been moved to palliative care, one of his daughters said on Sunday, downplaying reports that ...

By Reuters

Neymar fit to face South Korea, says Brazil coach Tite

Brazil forward Neymar is set to play for the five-times champions in their World Cup last-16 match against South Korea ...

By Reuters

ANALYSIS | Messi shoulders the load to lift Argentina into quarterfinals

Argentina reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup with a 2-1 win over Australia on Saturday but they were taken ...

By Nick Mulvenney

Neymar back in training as Brazil race to ...

World Cup favourites Brazil are racing to overcome injuries to key players as they prepare for their last-16 match ...

By Reuters and Sports Staff

ANALYSIS | 'In Louis we trust' pays off for the Netherlands

Coach Louis van Gaal may divide Dutch opinion with his tactics, but putting their faith in him has paid off once again ...

By Philip O'Connor

Croatia surprised by Japan's run but ready to handle their speed

Croatia were as surprised as anyone by Japan's group-stage wins over former champions Germany and Spain at the World ...

By Karolos Grohmann

Cissé hit by illness, Senegal seek to end African drought against England

In a tournament packed with surprises, Senegal will try to add to the list of stunners in the round of 16 on Sunday ...

By STEVE KEATING - Reuters

Don’t write Africa’s two remaining teams off, ...

Senegal and Morocco have the potential to make a dent in Europe's domination of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar when they ...

By MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Brazil soccer legend Pele under palliative care amid cancer battle -report

Brazilian soccer legend Pele is receiving palliative care after chemotherapy stopped having the expected results as he ...

By Reuters

Messi helps Argentina past Australia into World Cup quarterfinals

Lionel Messi scored on his 1,000th career appearance in Argentina's 2-1 win over Australia at the World Cup on Saturday ...

By Reuters

Dumfries delivers as Dutch head into last eight

Denzel Dumfries set up the first two goals and netted a decisive third to ensure a 3-1 victory for the Netherlands over ...

By Reuters

England's Kane working on tapering form to peak in knockout rounds

England skipper Harry Kane has been trying to taper his form in international tournaments so he can peak in the ...

By Reuters

Song sings of a bright future for Cameroon ...

Cameroon's World Cup ended in a blaze of glory as they secured a first win in 20 years at the tournament with a 1-0 ...

By Reuters

Brazil to take late fitness call on Neymar, says team doctor

Brazil defender Danilo has shown positive signs in his recovery from an ankle injury while Neymar is racing against ...

By Reuters

France know full well there is more to Poland than Lewandowski

Most of France's talk ahead of their last-16 clash with Poland has been about how Les Bleus will handle Robert ...

By Reuters

Rich in talent, uninspiring Uruguay can blame themselves for World Cup ...

With a history of deep World Cup runs and a squad oozing talent and experience, Uruguay's failure to reach the ...

By Reuters

US hero Christian Pulisic to play vs. Netherlands

The US men's national team said on Friday that forward Christian Pulisic will play in Saturday's Round of 16 World Cup ...

By Reuters

Switzerland edge Serbia in goalfest to reach last ...

Switzerland reached the World Cup knockout round for the third successive tournament after prevailing 3-2 over Serbia ...

By Reuters

Cameroon beat Brazil 1-0 but bow out of World Cup

Cameroon defeated a second-string Brazil team 1-0 in their final Group G match at the Lusail Stadium on Friday but it ...

By Manasi Pathak

South Korea beat Portugal to secure place in next round of World Cup

South Korea scored a late goal to beat Portugal 2-1 in the World Cup on Friday, a win that sent the Asian side into the ...

By Reuters

De Arrascaeta double in vain as Uruguay win fails to take them through

Giorgian de Arrascaeta scored twice as Uruguay beat Ghana 2-0 on Friday but it was not enough to keep them in the World ...

By Reuters

Revenge not on Ghana's mind as Suarez remains defiant

Uruguay's Luis Suarez refused to apologise to Ghanaians yesterday for his role 12 years ago in their biggest Soccer ...

By Reuters

ANALYSIS | German exit not as shocking as it looks

Germany's second successive group stage exit despite their 4-2 victory over Costa Rica on Thursday appears shocking for ...

By Reuters

Song eyes fairytale win for Cameroon in Brazil ‘scorcher’

Cameroon's coach Rigobert Song is expecting an "absolute scorcher" of a game against Brazil on Friday, a match he ...

By Reuters

Germany crash out of World Cup despite 4-2 win over Costa Rica

Germany were knocked out of the World Cup in the group stage for a second consecutive time despite a 4-2 win over Costa ...

By Rohith Nair

Japan upset Spain 2-1, both teams reach last 16

Ritsu Doan and Ao Tanaka earned Japan a stunning 2-1 victory over Spain 2-1 in World Cup Group E on Thursday as both ...

By Anita Kobylinska

Impassioned Morocco second African team in ...

An impassioned Moroccan clinched a spot in the last-16 of the World Cup for the first time since 1986 by defeating the ...

By Reuters

At Qatar World Cup, Middle East tensions spill into stadiums

Iran games a flashpoint for pro- and anti-government fans

By Maya Gebeily and Charlotte Bruneau

Pitso brings Morocco lessons to school programme as he partners with Curro

Having spent time in Morocco and witnessed how they achieved their football success, former Al Ahly coach Pitso ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Morocco ready to fly African flag against Canada: coach Regragui

The North Africans are seeking to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in nearly four decades.

By Reuters

Croatia reach World Cup last-16 as goalless draw puts Belgium out

Croatia eased into the last 16 of the World Cup after holding a stuttering Belgium to a 0-0 draw on Thursday, sending ...

By Reuters

OPINION | Fans' passion in Qatar holds lessons ...

Will we ever see hundreds of people making their way into Johannesburg's FNB Stadium or any other ground to watch ...

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Croatia reach World Cup last-16 as goalless draw puts Belgium out

Croatia eased into the last 16 of the World Cup after holding a stuttering Belgium to a 0-0 draw on Thursday, sending ...

By Reuters

Brazil to rest starters for group game against Cameroon

Brazil coach Tite is expected to rotate his World Cup squad for their final Group G match against Cameroon on Friday, ...

By Fernando Kallas

Ghana may face more drama in clash against last-chance Uruguay

After five-goal thrillers in their opening two World Cup matches, Ghana may be hoping to reach the last-16 with a ...

By Martin Petty

After the tears, South Korea turn eyes to Portugal

South Korea let their emotions pour out when they lost a five-goal thriller to Ghana this week, but they can expect no ...

By William Schomberg

ANALYSIS | Improving Argentina starting to look ...

When they needed it most, Argentina found their best performance of the World Cup so far as they defeated Poland 2-0 on ...

By Nick Said

Is Qatar the World Cup that African coaches come of age?

So far African coaches’ style of play and understanding of the players has shown dividends.

By MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Tunisia upset France but still exit World Cup

French-born Wahbi Khazri scored the only goal of the game as Tunisia upset FIFA World Cup holders France 1-0 at the ...

By Reuters

France file complaint to Fifa after Griezmann goal disallowed

France are filing a complaint to Fifa after a last-gasp equaliser by Antoine Griezmann was disallowed after a video ...

By Reuters

Argentina beat Poland 2-0 to set up last 16 clash ...

Lionel Messi's Argentina beat Poland 2-0 in their final World Cup Group C match at Stadium 974 in Doha on Wednesday to ...

By Anita Kobylinska

Tunisia upset France but still exit World Cup

French-born Wahbi Khazri scored the only goal of the game as Tunisia upset FIFA World Cup holders France 1-0 at the ...

By Reuters

Mexico beat Saudi Arabia but miss out on last 16

Mexico beat Saudi Arabia 2-1 in World Cup Group C on Wednesday but fell agonisingly short of reaching the last 16 on ...

By Hritika Sharma

Australia shock Denmark 1-0 to waltz into World Cup last 16

Australia upset Denmark 1-0 on Wednesday to qualify for the Fifa World Cup knockout phase for the first time in 16 ...

By Reuters

Morocco ready to fly African flag against Canada: coach Regragui

The North Africans are seeking to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in nearly four decades.

By Reuters

Spain's youngsters to draw on Olympics experience ...

Spain may look to their younger players to seal their last 16 spot at the World Cup when they meet Japan on Wednesday, ...

By Reuters

Fifa names first female refereeing trio for a men's World Cup

Stephanie Frappart, Neuza Back and Karen Diaz will become the first all-female refereeing team for a men's World Cup ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Neymar impersonator dupes TV, security and fans at the World Cup

While one would think it easy to spot a global superstar such as Neymar a mile away that has been a challenge for US ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Tears, memories of Papa Bouba Diop as Senegal advance to meet England

Emotions ran high as Senegal qualified for the knockout phase of the World Cup exactly two years after the death of ...

By Julien Pretot

‘He's making a monster!’ — Fans hail Benni McCarthy after Marcus ...

Benni McCarthy's fingerprints are all over the World Cup.

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

Southgate hails England's new and improved ...

Marcus Rashford is a player transformed for England, manager Gareth Southgate said after the forward's double strike ...

By Reuters

Senegal's Lions roar into World Cup second round

Captain Kalidou Koulibaly's second-half strike earned Senegal a 2-1 win against Ecuador that sent the African team into ...

By Reuters

Wounded Pulisic sends US through to last 16

Christian Pulisic could not even celebrate scoring against Iran after he injured himself as the United States beat Iran ...

By Martin Petty

Rashford double downs Wales and sends England into last 16

Marcus Rashford's second-half double propelled England to a 3-0 win over neighbours Wales on Tuesday that sent them ...

By Toby Davis

Gakpo on target again as Netherlands inflict ...

Cody Gakpo netted his third goal in three games as Netherlands comfortably beat World Cup hosts Qatar 2-0 at Al Bayt ...

By Reuters

Giants Messi and Lewandowski clash as Argentina, Poland seek last-16 berth

Two of the most intimidating strikers in world football, Argentina's 35-year-old Lionel Messi and Poland's 34-year-old ...

By Andrew Cawthorne

ANALYSIS | Tite finds in Vinicius Jr the perfect replacement for Neymar

Brazil earned a hardfought 1-0 victory against Switzerland on Monday to progress to the knockout stage of the World Cup ...

By Fernando Kallas

'I'm the dad of these kids': Cameroon coach Song on disciplined Onana

Cameroon coach Rigobert Song praised his team's fighting spirit after they salvaged a 3-3 draw against Serbia at the ...

By Reuters

France in Qatar should not be compared with 2018 winners: Varane

French defender Raphael Varane warned against comparing his team's performance in Qatar with their run to victory in ...

By Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber

Fans brace for politically charged World Cup ...

Diplomatic foes the United States and Iran face off on the pitch at the World Cup on Tuesday in a match that some ...

By Maya Gebeily and Charlotte Bruneau

Ghana looking for blessings not revenge against Uruguay, says Addo

Ghana coach Otto Addo said on Monday he is not the kind of guy who thinks too much about revenge.

By Reuters

Portugal beat Uruguay 2-0 to become third team into last 16

Portugal beat Uruguay 2-0 on Monday with two goals from midfielder Bruno Fernandes to become the third team after ...

By Reuters

MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE | Alcohol ban did nothing to dampen spirits in Qatar’s ...

Hopefully the spotlight shone on LGBTQI issues and reported deaths of hundreds migrant workers will not be in vain

By Mahlatse Mphahlele in Doha

Late Casemiro strike sends Brazil into last 16

Doha’s Stadium 974 thrummed to the samba beat on Monday night as Brazilian fans brought Latin American swagger to this ...

By Reuters

MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE IN QATAR | Group E is going down to the wire

Group E is going down to the wire on Thursday. Spain, Japan, Costa Rica and favourites Germany go into the last round ...

By Mahlatse Mphahlele in Doha

Ghana edge Korea in thriller to set up huge rematch against Uruguay

Mohammed Kudus scored twice to help Ghana beat South Korea 3-2 in a World Cup Group H thriller at a rocking Education ...

By Reuters

Senegal welcome pressure of decisive Ecuador clash, says Cissé

Senegal coach Aliou Cissé said his team are expected to reach the World Cup knockout stages due to their status as ...

By Hritika Sharma

Cameroon's World Cup hangs by thread after thrilling fightback against ...

Cameroon's Vincent Aboubakar came off the bench to rescue his side by scoring one superb goal and creating another as ...

By Reuters

Iran coach Queiroz tells Klinsmann to quit Fifa ...

Iran coach Carlos Queiroz lambasted German soccer icon Juergen Klinsmann for criticising his team's World Cup conduct, ...

By Martin Petty and Manasi Pathak

Magnificent Mbappé has France scoring records in his sights

Kylian Mbappé's meteoric rise showed no sign of stopping as the France forward sealed the holders' 2-1 win against ...

By Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber and Julien Pretot

'Crazy, difficult' Hakim Ziyech shows Morocco what they were missing

Morocco winger Hakim Ziyech helped mastermind a famous Group F win against second-ranked Belgium at the World Cup on ...

By Shady Amir

PODCAST | Motsepe is always singing the praises of Infantino: Mamadou Gaye

Gianni Infantino derives his power from the backing of Africa, so the continent should rather use its influence to ...

By Sports Staff

EUSEBIUS MCKAISER | There should be a bare minimum for moral decency, and ...

Criticism can’t be mitigated by pointing fingers at Western states. Condemn all countries that act immorally

Eusebius McKaiser
Contributor and analyst

World Cup star turns to Benni McCarthy to improve ...

McCarthy had already turned around the form of another World Cup star who recently scored the third-quickest goal by a ...

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

Fuellkrug rescues Germany in showdown with Spain, all still to play for

Substitute Niclas Fuellkrug's close range strike late in the second half rescued Germany a valuable 1-1 draw against ...

By Reuters

Patchy Portugal need more than Ronaldo show to get past Uruguay

Portugal could qualify early for the next phase of the World Cup with a game remaining if they beat Uruguay on Monday, ...

By Martin Petty

Croatia show quality to dispatch Canada 4-1

Alphonso Davies netted Canada's first goal at a men's World Cup but it was Croatia, spearheaded by a brace from Andrej ...

By Reuters

Brazil have so much talent they almost feel sorry ...

Brazil face Switzerland in the World Cup on Monday without talisman Neymar ruled out by an ankle injury suffered in ...

By Fernando Kallas

Cameroon and Serbia in battle for survival

Cameroon and Serbia go into Monday's Group G match knowing that anything less than a victory could send them packing ...

By Rohith Nair

Ghana coach Addo happy to renew acquaintance with South Korea’s Son

Ghana coach Otto Addo is looking forward to renewing a long-standing relationship with South Korea's Son Heung-min when ...

By Mark Gleeson

Morocco stun Belgium to claim long-awaited World Cup win

Substitutes Abdelhamid Sabiri and Zakaria Aboukhlal earned Morocco their first World Cup victory in 24 years as they ...

By Reuters

MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE IN QATAR | When Argentina needed him Messi stood up

When Argentina needed their talisman and maestro most, he stood up to be counted.

By Mahlatse Mphahlele in Doha

Approaching Maradona's myth, shirtless Messi ...

A shirtless Lionel Messi sang and danced with teammates beyond midnight into Sunday after leading Argentina to an ...

By Andrew Cawthorne

Costa Rica stun Japan with late Fuller winner to leave Group E wide open

Costa Rica put a huge dent in Japan's hopes of reaching the Qatar World Cup last-16 as they recovered from their ...

By Reuters

ANALYSIS | Dazzling Dembélé made it a two-man job for France with Mbappé

Kylian Mbappé will grab the headlines after his second-half double sent France into the last 16 of the World Cup with a ...

By Reuters

Japan want to build style by learning from others, says coach Moriyasu

Japan want to build their own style of football by learning from other countries, coach Hajime Moriyasu said on ...

By Reuters

German pass masters will test Spain's possession ...

Spain could be given a taste of their own medicine when they take on Germany in a potentially decisive clash at the ...

By Reuters

Regragui tells Belgian-born Morocco players to stay focused

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has warned the Belgian-born players in his squad to stay focused when they face ...

By Reuters

Croatia deserve respect, coach Dalic says after Herdman's remark

Croatia head coach Zlatko Dalic said his team deserve respect as the runners-up of the last World Cup after Canada ...

By Reuters

Australia edge Tunisia to end 12-year wait for a win at World Cup

Australia beat Tunisia 1-0 at the Al Janoub Stadium on Saturday to register their first World Cup victory in 12 years ...

By Reuters

Japan want to build style by learning from others, says coach Moriyasu

Japan want to build their own style of football by learning from other countries, coach Hajime Moriyasu said on ...

By Reuters

Otto Addo's silly substitutions and not the ...

Otto Addo was understandably looking for excuses, as losers are expected to, after Ghana’s 2-3 defeat to Portugal in ...

By MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Wasteful United States held to goalless draw by England

A youthful United States side outplayed England in their World Cup Group B battle but were left to rue a flurry of ...

By Reuters

Argentina win has not changed us says Saudi Arabia coach

Saudi Arabia's stunning 2-1 comeback win over Argentina in their World Cup Group C opener this week sent shockwaves ...

By Reuters

England showed the grit needed for World Cup, Southgate says

England coach Gareth Southgate acknowledged his side had failed to repeat their early World Cup attacking fluency in ...

By Reuters

Lewandowski off the mark as Poland close in on last 16

Robert Lewandowski scored his first ever World Cup goal as Poland brought Saudi Arabia back down to earth with a bump ...

By Reuters

Hosts Qatar on verge of elimination after 3-1 ...

Host nation Qatar are perilously close to crashing out of the World Cup after they slumped to a 3-1 defeat by Senegal ...

By Reuters

Ronaldo relishes 'beautiful moment' with new World Cup record

Cristiano Ronaldo said he was living a "beautiful moment" after becoming the first player to score in five men's World ...

By Reuters

Mexico game will be like a final for Argentina, says Lautaro

Argentina are looking to put their shock 2-1 opening defeat by Saudi Arabia behind them as they prepare for their World ...

By Reuters

Valencia earns Ecuador deserved 1-1 draw against Netherlands

Ecuador's "Superman" captain Enner Valencia led a feisty fightback on Friday as the South Americans drew 1-1 with the ...

By Reuters

No risk of France being complacent against ...

Having lost twice to Denmark recently, France will be taking nothing for granted when they look to secure their ...

By Reuters

Last-gasp double keeps Iran in World Cup after Wales thriller

Iran scored twice in the final moments of stoppage time to keep alive their hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout ...

By Reuters

Neymar’s injury overshadows Richarlison’s stunning double as Brazil ...

The Brazilian talisman departed Qatar's Lusail Stadium after their 2-0 win over Serbia on Thursday night in tears and ...

By MAHLATSE MPHAHLELE IN DOHA

Ronaldo's milestone goal was gift from referee, says Ghana coach

Ghana coach Otto Addo complained bitterly about the officiating in his side’s 3-2 defeat by Portugal in the World Cup ...

By MARK GLEESON

Richarlison scores spectacular volley as Brazil beat Serbia 2-0

Brazil striker Richarlison scored twice including a spectacular swivelling volley to get his nation's quest for a sixth ...

By Reuters

Brazil expect Neymar to carry on in World Cup despite ankle injury

Brazilian striker Neymar should be fine to continue in the World Cup despite limping off with a swollen ankle during ...

By Andrew Cawthorne and Rohith Nair

Ronaldo makes history with goal as Portugal edge Ghana 3-2

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo shrugged off his bitter split with Manchester United to claim yet another record as ...

By Martyn Herman

Cissé has 'blind trust' in Senegal keeper Mendy for must-win game with ...

Senegal coach Aliou Cissé has total trust in goalkeeper Édouard Mendy despite his rocky start to the World Cup campaign.

By Reuters

Kane fit to face US, says England manager Southgate

England captain Harry Kane has been given the all clear to face the US in England's World Cup Group B clash in Al Khor ...

By Reuters

Cameroon-born Embolo refuses to celebrate as he ...

An apologetic Breel Embolo scored the winner against the country of his birth to hand Switzerland a 1-0 victory over ...

By Reuters

Uruguay denied by woodwork in draw against South Korea

Uruguay defender Diego Godin and midfielder Federico Valverde hit the woodwork as the South Americans were held to a ...

By Reuters

ANALYSIS | Spain back to their fluent best in perfect World Cup start

Spain's World Cup winners of 2010 built their triumph on an incessant passing game that left rivals chasing shadows, ...

By William Schomberg

Germany under pressure after losing to Japan, admits Hansi Flick

Germany are under pressure after suffering a shock 2-1 defeat by Japan in their opening match of the World Cup, head ...

By Reuters

Ecuador eye place in last-16, Van Gaal’s Netherlands look a little further

Ecuador or the Netherlands can take a huge step towards the second round of the World Cup if either can force a victory ...

By Reuters

Germany players cover mouths in team photo amid ...

Germany players placed their hands over their mouths during a team photo ahead of their World Cup Group E game against ...

By Reuters

Spain hammer Costa Rica 7-0 in perfect World Cup start

Spain thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 on Wednesday, their biggest ever winning margin at a World Cup, helped by two goals by ...

By Reuters

Courtois saves penalty as disappointing Belgium beat Canada 1-0

Keeper Thibaut Courtois showed his class as Belgium made the most of Canada's woeful finishing to win their opening ...

By Julien Pretot

Tough opening match for Cameroon against consistent Switzerland

Switzerland hope to secure early points in a tough Group G when they face Cameroon in their World Cup opener on ...

By Reuters

Another World Cup shock as Samurai Blue put ...

Goals from substitutes Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano in the last 15 minutes gave Japan a stunning 2-1 upset over ...

By Reuters

Ronaldo sideshow won’t affect Portugal, says Ghana captain Ayew

Ghana captain André Ayew does not believe Cristiano Ronaldo's messy exit from Manchester United will have any bearing ...

By Reuters

Brazil and Neymar enter World Cup, stage right, facing strong Serbia

Brazil are keeping their cards close to their chest under the spotlight of being the odds-on favorites as they prepare ...

By Fernando Kallas

Morocco battle to goalless draw with 2018 finalists Croatia

Croatia, runners-up at the last World Cup, were held to a 0-0 draw by Morocco at Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday in their ...

By Reuters

England worth €1.5bn — World Cup’s most expensive squads and players

England, who are gunning for their second World Cup title, have the most valuable squad in Qatar with Jude Bellingham ...

By Reuters

Argentina let it get messy rather than Messi, and ...

The stars appeared to be aligning for Lionel Messi as he arrived at the Qatar World Cup as the talisman for an ...

By Martyn Herman

SA proud of Victor Gomes and Zakhele Siwela’s solid showing in France vs ...

Victor Gomes and Zakhele Siwela gave Mzansi a proudly South African moment at the World Cup.

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

Hervé Renard’s ‘lucky white shirt’ makes global entrance, and then some

Saudi Arabia coach Hervé Renard’s ‘lucky white shirt’ is well known across Africa.

By Marc Strydom and Reuters

EDITORIAL | Fifa’s LGBTQI stance at Fiefdom World Cup is cowardly greed

Compared with the 2010 spectacle in SA, it seems Fifa has different rules for different countries

In classically African fashion, Senegal matched ...

Call it naivete if you will. But how often have you watched a team from the continent go toe-to-toe with the world’s ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Man United make it official and cut relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo

Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo will leave with immediate effect, the Premier League team said on Tuesday, ...

By Reuters

Hervé Renard's Saudi Arabia blow lid off World Cup stunning Messi and ...

Saudi Arabia produced one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history beating Argentina 2-1 in their Group C opener with ...

By Reuters

Argentina’s shock loss to Saudi Arabia crashes Buenos Aires breakfast party

Argentinian fans hoping for a bright start to their day, left bemused and surprised after loss to Saudi Arabia

By Miguel Lo Bianco and Ramiro Scandalo

Giroud double equals record as holders France crush Australia

Olivier Giroud netted twice to become France's joint record scorer as they fought back to put Australia to the sword, ...

By Toby Davis

Lewandowski misses penalty as Poland and Mexico ...

Poland's Robert Lewandowski missed a penalty — and his chance to finally claim a World Cup tournament goal — in a 0-0 ...

By William Schomberg

Danes denied by woodwork in scoreless draw with Tunisia

Denmark hit the woodwork in the second half as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Tunisia in their Group D World Cup ...

By Reuters

Teen sensation Musiala could be Germany's Messi at World Cup

Germany's teenage sensation Jamal Musiala on Monday credited his England youth period for helping him develop his ...

By Reuters

Croatia, finalists in 2018, happy to fly under the radar as they meet ...

Croatia have won their last five matches and lost once in 16 months, but the 2018 runners-up, led by midfield conjuror ...

By Reuters

Spain open World Cup against Costa Rica in battle of generations

The young Spain players at the heart of coach Luis Enrique's new-look side make their global debut on Wednesday when ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Steve Komphela jokes about looking for ...

While fans on the opening of the World Cup in Qatar were looking for licensed venues to score a beer, Mamelodi Sundowns ...

WATCH | Messi shrugs off injuries to enter the World Cup

Argentina's 35-year-old captain and all-time top scorer Lionel Messi shrugged off some fatigue niggles and will lead ...

By Reuters

Here's why matches at the World Cup are running longer than ever

Matches at the World Cup in Qatar are running longer than at any other tournament after referees were told to account ...

By Reuters

Iran’s football World Cup team shuns national anthem to back protests

Iran’s football team refused to sing their national anthem at their opening World Cup game against England on Monday, a ...

By Golnar Motevalli

Cisse urges Senegal strikers to step up after defeat to Netherlands

Senegal head coach Aliou Cissé urged his attackers to be more clinical in front of goal after they lost 2-0 to the ...

By Reuters

TOM EATON | While my Qatar gently weeps: World ...

If there wasn’t enough wrong with the World Cup, a lopsided history lesson from Fifa president Gianni Infantino was ...

Tom Eaton
Columnist

Wales snatch draw with US thanks to late Bale penalty

Wales' all-time top scorer and talisman Gareth Bale scored a late penalty as the Welsh rallied in the second half to ...

By Nick Said

Arabs shun Israeli media at Qatar World Cup, cooling hopes of a thaw

Arab soccer fans at the first World Cup in the Middle East are shunning Israeli journalists in Qatar trying to ...

By Maya Gebeily

US journalist says he was detained at World Cup over rainbow shirt

A US journalist said he was briefly detained on Monday when he tried to enter a World Cup stadium in Qatar while ...

By Reuters

Dutch strike late to grab 2-0 win over Senegal

Cody Gakpo scored a late goal on his World Cup debut and Davy Klaassen added a second deep in stoppage time to give the ...

By Philip O'Connor

England's Lions make roaring start putting six past Iran

England hammered Iran 6-2 on Monday in an emphatic Qatar World Cup opener thanks to two goals from Bukayo Saka and ...

By Reuters

France's new generation ready to step up after Benzema injury

France have been hit by a number of big-name injuries, including the shock news of Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema ...

By Reuters

Eriksen the 'heart of the team' for dark horses Denmark as they face ...

Denmark go into their opening World Cup game against a tricky Tunisia on Tuesday in the unusual position of being among ...

By Reuters

LISTEN | Our winning 11: The top-scoring World Cup soccer shirts

Worthy of the cup or red-card contender? Our team weighs in.

World Cup captains ditch OneLove armband after ...

The captains of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark will not wear “OneLove” ...

By Reuters

Messi 'enjoying his training sessions' ahead of Argentina's clash with ...

Lionel Messi's Argentina have an easy-looking start to the World Cup on Tuesday based on blistering recent form and ...

By Reuters

Queiroz sees Southgate's England as best since 1966

Iran coach Carlos Queiroz believes England have their strongest team since they won the World Cup in 1966, calling ...

By Reuters

Keanu Baccus: 5 things you need to know about SA-born star set to light up ...

Bafana Bafana may not be at the World Cup but we have a South African-born player looking to impress.

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

WATCH | Qatar World Cup: The fireworks, the ...

Here are videos from the opening ceremony and first match of the World Cup in Qatar.

By TIMESLIVE VIDEO

IN PICS | Qatar 2022 opening day, ceremony and match

The 2022 Qatar World Cup began with its opening ceremony at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor on Sunday, followed by the ...

By Sports staff

Valencia leads Ecuador to 2-0 win over hosts Qatar in World Cup opener

Enner Valencia's two first-half goals led Ecuador to a dominant 2-0 victory over Qatar on Sunday as the home nation ...

By Reuters

If France can win, why not us? Cissé tells Mané-less Senegal

Confident Dutch claims about being serious World Cup contenders face early examination on Monday as they open their ...

By Reuters

Points at premium for US and Wales in high-stakes World Cup opener

The US and Wales head into Monday's 2022 World Cup clash (9pm SA time) knowing that victory could decide one of Group ...

By Reuters

England enter World Cup with lowered expectations as they face troubled ...

England could not have done a better job of lowering expectations than by going six competitive games without a win ...

By Reuters

Dutch skipper Van Dijk says Senegal not to be underestimated

The absence of Sadio Mane does not mean the Netherlands are going to underestimate African champions Senegal when the ...

By Reuters

Qatar players' dream a culmination of years of sacrifice, says coach ...

Qatar's players have long been preparing together for the hosts' World Cup opener and coach Felix Sanchez said on ...

By Reuters

France striker Benzema out of World Cup with injury

France striker Karim Benzema has been ruled out of the World Cup in Qatar after suffering an injury in training, the ...

By Reuters

WATCH | Here’s why the Qatar World Cup is so controversial

The World Cup enters its 92nd year when the Fifa tournament kicks off in Qatar this weekend.

By TimesLIVE Video

World Cup 2022: when is the opening ceremony and who is performing?

Here's what you need to know about the opening ceremony that will take place ahead of the World Cup in Qatar that ...

By Reuters

High stakes for Qatar as World Cup starts

The World Cup kicks off in Qatar on Sunday in a high-stakes event for the tiny nation that has faced a barrage of ...

By Reuters

Qatar, Brazil, Ghana: best and worst World Cup jerseys

See which teams are dodging fashion's red cards and which are aiming to be this year's Bafana Bafana

Thango Ntwasa
Lifestyle Digital Editor

World Cup booze U-turn: No alcohol to be sold at stadiums

Alcoholic beer will not be sold at Qatar's World Cup stadiums, world soccer governing body Fifa said on Friday, a ...

By Reuters

Players risk suffering heat stroke in Qatar during World Cup, says ...

Players are at risk of suffering heat stroke and could make poor decisions when playing and training in high ...

By Reuters

FIFA chief accuses critics of Qatar of hypocrisy ahead of World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino accused critics of World Cup host Qatar's treatment of migrant workers of hypocrisy on ...

By Reuters

Ronaldo optimistic about Portugal’s World Cup chances

Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo believes his country has an excellent group of players and they are capable of doing ...

By Reuters

Qatar risks an own goal on worker rights at 2022 World Cup

Labour rights groups point to poor pay, safety, but Qatar rejects calls to compensate workers who suffered

By Anuradha Nagaraj and Pramod Acharya

SAZI HADEBE | Who are my favourites for Qatar? Sadly not an African team ...

Brazil are my pick, followed by Argentina, Germany, Spain and France. However, African teams are a long way behind the ...

Sazi Hadebe
Sports reporter

WATCH | Man United remove mural of Cristiano Ronaldo from Old Trafford

Manchester United have removed a mural containing the image of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo from the exterior of ...

By Sports Staff and Reuters

Qatar 2022 | Group H: Ghana out for revenge and ...

Football pundits often talk about a group of death, and with Group H stacked with top teams, this appears to be the one ...

By Grant Shub

World Cup 2022: when is the opening ceremony and who is performing?

Here's what you need to know about the opening ceremony that will take place ahead of the World Cup in Qatar that ...

By Reuters

WATCH | A comprehensive video guide to Qatar's eight World Cup stadiums

Qatar has spent a fortune on its gleaming stadiums for the 2022 World Cup that starts on Sunday.

By Reuters

Netherlands to auction their World Cup shirts to support migrant workers

The shirts worn by the Netherlands team during the World Cup will be auctioned to support migrant workers in Qatar, the ...

By Reuters

Move over Qatar, here are the most popular World Cup stadiums in SA

Which of the 2010 World Cup stadiums was your favourite?

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

Fifa boss Infantino urges World Cup ceasefire in ...

The chief of soccer's world governing body Fifa issued a plea on Tuesday for a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine for the ...

By Reuters

Ghana can go far at the World Cup: coach Addo

Interim Ghana coach Otto Addo believes his team can make a significant impact at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as the ...

By Reuters

Qatar authorities apologise for threatening Danish film crew at World Cup

Qatar's Supreme Committee said it has apologised after a Danish film crew were threatened by security staff live on air ...

By Reuters

Tough streets of Alex to stadiums of Qatar for Siwela, the coincidental ...

Zakhele Siwela’s life could have taken a turn for the worse, growing up in a township notorious criminals activity but ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Fernandes and Ronaldo's awkward handshake just a joke — Joao Mario

An awkward handshake between Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes was the result of a joke between the Portugal and ...

By Reuters

For Victor Gomes a dream percolated from age 15 ...

SA’s representative at the World Cup says being a referee is not a day job but a lifelong commitment

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Qatar 2022 | Group G: Cameroon entirely capable of upsetting Brazil and ...

Brazil take their strongest combination to a Fifa World Cup in many editions at Qatar 2022 and are the bookmakers’ ...

By Marc Strydom

Addo surprises naming uncapped pair in Ghana’s World Cup squad

Kamal Sowah’s form for Club Brugge in the Uefa Champions League has won him a World Cup call-up for Ghana after the ...

By Reuters

Thuram and Disasi complete France’s World Cup squad, Kimpembe ruled out

Borussia Moenchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram and Monaco defender Axel Disasi were called up to play the World Cup ...

By Reuters

Portugal can count on Ronaldo in Qatar, Silva says

Cristiano Ronaldo retains the support of his Portugal team mates despite his recent problems, midfielder Bernardo Silva ...

By Reuters

Most expensive beer ever? Football fans outraged by bev prices in Qatar ...

Football fans around the world are up in arms over the prices of beer at certain places in Qatar during the World Cup.

Son going to Qatar with fractured eye socket

Son Heung-min has been included in South Korea's 26-man squad for the World Cup finals in Qatar despite suffering a ...

By Reuters

Qatar World Cup set to defy controversy and break revenue record

The Soccer World Cup in Qatar is expected to shrug off controversies about the host nation’s human rights conduct to ...

By David Hellier

Last hurrah for maestro Lionel Messi

As Africans, we live in hope that one of our nations will one day win the World Cup. We just have to stop listening to ...

Bareng-Batho Kortjaas
Sports editor and columnist: Sunday Times

Mané named in Senegal squad for World Cup

Sadio Mané has been named in Senegal's squad for the World Cup in Qatar despite suffering an injury playing for Bayern ...

By Reuters

Qatar 2022 | The major players who will be missing in Qatar

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which kicks off on November 20, will see some of the best players missing the tournament ...

By Reuters

Qatar 2022 | Will star player Ronaldo let his boots do the talking for ...

The footballer, who has a whopping 495-million followers on Instagram, has won almost every prize worth playing for in ...

By GRANT SHUB

Ngadjui left out as Song names Cameroon squad for World Cup

Cameroon left out long-serving centre back Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui from their squad for the World Cup in a shock ...

By Reuters

Giroud named in provisional France World Cup squad

Olivier Giroud was named in France's provisional squad for the Qatar World Cup as coach Didier Deschamps unveiled a ...

By Reuters

Ex-Fifa boss Sepp Blatter: Qatar WC a ‘mistake’

Sepp Blatter, the president of Fifa when the organisation selected Qatar in 2010 to host the upcoming World Cup, now ...

By Reuters

Qatar 2022 | Senegal aim high, but Cissé’s team ...

If talisman, Sadio Mané is fit for the global showpiece, the Lions of Teranga will take some beating

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Qatar 2022 | Know the favourites: can injury-hit France avoid champions’ ...

Reigning champions France will be aiming to emulate Italy and Brazil by winning consecutive World Cup titles in Qatar.

By Grant Shub

Senegal’s Sadio Mané ruled out of World Cup: report

The loss of Africa’s best player will be a huge blow to the hopes of Senegal, the favourites from the continent to make ...

By Marc Strydom

What’s a Hayya card? Qatar’s crazy entry rules for the Fifa World Cup

The usually ‘visa-free’ nation is effectively closed to any foreign visitor without a match ticket, unless you’ve got a ...

By Elizabeth Sleith

Here’s why you may not be supporting Ghana at this World Cup

Will you be supporting Ghana at the Fifa World Cup?

Kyle Zeeman
Digital Editor

Qatar 2022 | Group F: Can Morocco unseat 2018 ...

On the face of it an easier group given the lack of a traditional heavyweight, Group F is deceptively tough given the ...

By Marc Strydom

Qatar 2022 | Star player Kylian Mbappe can help France join Italy and ...

While it would take an excellent team effort for France to defend the Fifa World Cup title, they will need Kylian ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

R204 for a beer — what it will cost South Africans to go to the World Cup

Perhaps the best thing about Bafana Bafana’s failure to qualify for this year’s Fifa World Cup in Qatar is that fans ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

IN PICS | Going to the World Cup in Qatar? Six top eateries to drool over

Hunters Room & Grill and Morimoto serve up mouth-watering dishes worth trying

By Lisa Fleisher

Qatar 2022 | Know your favourites: Can Harry Kane fire England to glory?

England’s only World Cup triumph was in 1966, when they beat West Germany 4-2 in the final. Ever since, the Three Lions ...

By Grant Shub

Qatar 2022 | Here’s a winning 11 of the most ...

It's not just physique that makes these stars stand out, but their love for charity and family.

Qatar 2022 | Group E: Japan aim to be stumbling ...

Germany and Spain are the clear favourites to progress past Group E at the 2022 World Cup, but Japan can provide a ...

By Marc Strydom

Qatar 2022 | Will superstar Neymar take Brazil to the promised land?

The comparison with legendary Brazilian players appears justified given Neymar’s club football career, one which has ...

By MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Qatar 2022 | Ayew, Ghana eye Uruguay rematch, but getting past group more ...

‘We need to stay calm, follow the plan and try to win the game or do whatever we can to advance to the next stage,’ ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Qatar 2022 | Superstar Sadio Mané will carry a nation’s hopes at World Cup

What are the chances of this year getting any better for Senegal superstar Sadio Mané?

By MATSHELANE MAMABOLO

Qatar 2022 | World Cup preliminary squads to be decided by Friday

World Cup coaches must submit a preliminary selection of players for the tournament by Friday as they begin the process ...

By Mark Gleeson

Qatar 2022 | If Msakni takes the lead, Tunisian ...

African giants Tunisia, who South African football followers will be familiar with as Afcon 1996 runners-up, will be ...

By BY GRANT SHUB

Qatar 2022 | Germany one of the favourites in ...

As four-time Fifa World Cup champions, second behind Brazil (five), Germany will always go any global football ...

Sazi Hadebe
Sports reporter

Talented team mates will ease pressure on Neymar at World Cup, says Brazil ...

Former Brazil and Real Madrid great Ronaldo thinks that although the pressure will be on Neymar to deliver for his ...

By Reuters

Qatar 2022 | Group D: France and Denmark have ambitions to go far

Defending champions France and Denmark possess the obvious quality in Group D of the 2022 Fifa World Cup.

By Marc Strydom

Qatar World Cup will have areas for drunk fans to sober up, limits on beer ...

The Soccer World Cup being held in Qatar from next month will have areas for drunk fans to sober up, its CEO said in a ...

By Lina Najem

Qatar 2022 | Group C: Argentina could be hitting a high note at the right ...

Group C at the 2022 Fifa World Cup contains the 2021 Ballon D’Or winner and runner-up, but in teams it has less overall ...

By Marc Strydom

Qatar 2022 | Star player: Neymar out to fix ...

It has been two decades since Brazil won the coveted Fifa World Cup and captain Cafu lifted the iconic golden trophy in ...

By Grant Shub

Qatar 2022 | Know your favourites: Enrique’s Spain on the comeback trail

Having underperformed at the two previous Fifa World Cups, Spain have been on an upward trajectory in their rebuilding ...

By SITHEMBISO DINDI

Qatar 2022 round-up | R204 for a beer — what it will cost South Africans ...

All the latest World Cup Qatar 2022 profiles and news.

By TimesLIVE

Qatar 2022 | Eto’o-inspired Cameroon should dare to dream, says Feutmba

A strong, confident Indomitable Lions could go a long way to dispel Africa’s inferiority complex at the World Cup

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Lionel Messi says Qatar World Cup will be his last

Argentine soccer superstar Lionel Messi said the Qatar World Cup in November will be his last, capping a historic run ...

By Patrick Gillespie

Qatar 2022 | Group B: England have another golden ...

With its teams ranked between ninth and 20th in the world, the 2022 Fifa World Cup’s Group B is not a group of death ...

By Marc Strydom

Qatar 2022 | Star player: Kevin De Bruyne can take Belgium all the way

Though football is a team sport, there are players who rise above their teammates to help carry a team to greater ...

By Matshelane Mamabolo

Qatar 2022 | If Ziyech brings his dancing shoes Morocco can be the life of ...

If Morocco are to progress past the group stage at the World Cup, Hakim Ziyech will need to be at his sparkling best

By Marc Strydom

Qatar 2022 | Know the favourites: Can Messi finally steer Argentina to ...

Could this be a fairytale final Fifa World Cup appearance for the talismanic Lionel Messi?

Mahlatse Mphahlele
Sports reporter

Qatar 2022 | Group A: Tricky for Senegal to get past Qatar, Netherlands

Africa's best hope, 2022 Africa Cup of Nations winners Senegal, have a tricky group to progress past where hosts Qatar ...

By Marc Strydom
subscribe Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.
Subscribe now