FIFA is investigating Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes for an alleged rape in New Zealand during the World Cup, overshadowing the team's historic performance. This comes as the tournament progresses into the knockout stages, with African teams aiming for further success.

The Iranian national football team has relocated its FIFA World Cup training camp from the United States to Mexico. This decision comes amid reported visa and security concerns, as well as ongoing diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran.

Teams are making final preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, with news including Senegal's team preview, Morocco and Ivory Coast emerging as potential dark horses, and details on stadium venues like Estadio Azteca hosting the opener and MetLife the final. Cristiano Ronaldo is set to lead Portugal for his sixth appearance, and Alphonso Davies has joined Canada's squad despite injury, while DR Congo ended a 52-year World Cup absence.

New York and New Jersey attorneys general have launched an investigation into FIFA's ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, several international stars, including Neymar and Lionel Messi, are facing injury concerns, while teams like Australia, Mexico, and South Korea continue their preparations for the tournament.