FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed the development in a chat with Semafor, revealing that the performance will feature “more than one” artist. The show’s lineup is being curated by Chris Martin and Coldplay manager Phil Harvey, hinting at a carefully selected, globally appealing roster.

The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey—temporarily rebranded as New York New Jersey Stadium for the tournament. Organizers are partnering with Global Citizen to deliver what Infantino described as “a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world.”

But the halftime show isn’t the only spectacle in the works. FIFA is also planning a full-scale “takeover” of Times Square during the final weekend, turning the iconic New York landmark into part of the tournament’s global celebration.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino tells Semafor that the World Cup’s halftime show will have “more than one” artist performing.

It will be curated by Chris Martin & Coldplay. pic.twitter.com/rINtpSrydV

— Pop Base (@PopBase) April 15, 2026

While the official performer lineup hasn’t been revealed, there’s already strong anticipation around the possible inclusion of Nigerian artists—especially given the continued global rise of Afrobeats.

There’s precedent too. Tems previously made history at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup final halftime show, sharing the stage with J Balvin and Doja Cat in a performance that reached millions worldwide. That moment signaled a growing recognition of African music on football’s biggest stages.

With Afrobeats now a dominant global force, the 2026 World Cup final could become another defining stage—one where Nigerian stars once again bring their sound to the heart of a worldwide audience.

🚨Tems makes history as the first African artist to perform at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 – Final Halftime show. pic.twitter.com/hq8AhQk7RE

— HYPETRIBE (@hypetribeng) July 13, 2025

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on FIFA Plans Historic World Cup 2026 Halftime Show.

Foden found it difficult to make an impact while playing in an unfamiliar attacking role during England’s 1-0 friendly loss to the Japan national football team on Tuesday, particularly in the absence of Harry Kane.

Despite starting the season brightly, the 25-year-old has also seen limited game time under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in recent weeks, which Tuchel believes has affected his sharpness on the pitch.

“He tried everything. I would say he was excellent in camp but, yeah, he struggles to show it on the pitch,” Tuchel said. “He came into camp with the brightest energy and trained very well, but he hasn’t been able to translate that into performances during matches.”

Foden has often struggled to replicate his club form at international level, including during England’s run to the Euro 2024 final, where expectations were high following his standout performances for Manchester City.

Not our night, but plenty to learn from ahead of an exciting summer.

Thank you for your support throughout this camp, #ThreeLions fans ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4LdsgDTvyJ

— England (@England) March 31, 2026

Competition for attacking midfield roles remains fierce, with players like Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Rogers all pushing for places in the squad. Tuchel acknowledged the challenge, stating that selection decisions will be based strictly on form and impact.

“It’s not a guarantee that he will come,” Tuchel added when asked about including underperforming players in the squad for the tournament in North America.

The defeat to Japan marked only Tuchel’s second loss in 12 games as England boss. However, his side is still searching for a statement victory, having yet to beat a team ranked in FIFA’s top 20 during his tenure.

Following a 1-1 draw against Uruguay national football team last week, Tuchel remained optimistic about England’s chances of ending their long wait for a major trophy since 1966.

“We will not let go of our dream, we will not let go of the question ‘why not?’” he said. “Right now, the focus is on players finishing the season strongly with their clubs before regrouping to prepare properly.”

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Tuchel Casts Doubt on Foden’s World Cup Spot After England Struggles.

This milestone not only increases the continent’s representation but also raises hopes of going further than Morocco’s historic semi-final run in 2022.

The qualified African teams are Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Algeria, Tunisia, Ivory Coast, Cape Verde, South Africa, and DR Congo. Nine teams earned direct qualification as group winners, while DR Congo secured their spot through the intercontinental playoffs.

This expanded representation gives African teams a stronger platform to compete for top honors while also showcasing emerging talents on a global stage. Scouts, clubs, and fans worldwide will be watching closely, potentially opening doors for many players to secure moves to top leagues.

As expectations rise, African nations are not only aiming to participate but also to make a significant impact. With growing confidence and recent progress in international competitions, the dream of an African country lifting the World Cup trophy feels closer than ever.

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Africa to Make History with 10 Teams at 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The announcement, made on March 31, 2026, has sent shockwaves through Ghanaian football circles.

Addo’s dismissal comes after a series of disappointing results that raised concerns about the national team’s readiness. The Black Stars recently suffered consecutive defeats in international friendlies, including a heavy 5–1 loss to Austria and a narrow 2–1 defeat to Germany.

Despite a squad brimming with talent and experience, Ghana struggled to maintain consistency on the pitch.

Reports suggest that the failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations added pressure on the technical team, further influencing the federation’s decision. Addo, who was entrusted with rebuilding the team and leading it into a new era, was unable to meet the high expectations set for him.

During his tenure, Addo managed 22 matches, securing eight victories while enduring nine losses. While there were glimpses of potential under his guidance, recurring inconsistencies ultimately left the GFA with little option but to act decisively ahead of the World Cup.

The immediate challenge now lies in appointing a successor capable of steadying the Black Stars. Ghana faces a tough World Cup group featuring heavyweights such as England and Croatia, and choosing a competent replacement is critical in the race for glory.

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Ghana Part Ways with Otto Addo Weeks Before 2026 World Cup.

Rumours had been circulating that the tournament might either be delayed or moved to another location because of the geopolitical tensions between the two countries. However, FIFA has moved to calm those fears, insisting that preparations for the competition remain on track.

Speaking on the matter, FIFA’s chief operating officer, Heimo Schirgi, dismissed the idea of postponing the tournament. According to him, the World Cup is “too big” to be delayed, adding that all organisational work for the tournament is continuing as planned. The competition is scheduled to kick off on June 11, 2026, with matches set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

FIFA officials explained that although they are carefully observing the evolving geopolitical situation, they currently see no reason to disrupt the tournament schedule.

The conversation around a possible postponement began after tensions in the Middle East escalated, creating travel and security challenges across parts of the region.

These concerns were highlighted recently when Graham Arnold, head coach of the Iraq national football team, urged FIFA to delay his team’s World Cup qualifying playoff. Arnold argued that the ongoing conflict had complicated travel arrangements for players and staff.

Similar concerns have been raised due to wider travel disruptions and security worries affecting parts of the Middle East.

Despite these developments, FIFA maintains that the tournament remains firmly on schedule. The organization says it is actively monitoring global events and staying in contact with relevant football bodies, including the Iran Football Federation, as preparations continue toward the scheduled kickoff in June 2026.

For now, the message from football’s governing body is clear: the road to the 2026 World Cup remains unchanged.

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on FIFA Breaks Silence on 2026 World Cup Postponement Rumours.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has sparked unprecedented global interest, with around 150 million ticket requests submitted within the first half of the current Random Selection Draw ticketing phase.

According to figures released by FIFA, fans from more than 200 countries have already applied for tickets since the phase opened on December 11, making the tournament oversubscribed by a factor of roughly 30.

The demand, based on verified individual credit card entries, far exceeds the available ticket inventory at this early stage and has surpassed interest recorded at any previous World Cup.

The 2026 edition, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is shaping up to be the most ambitious in the competition’s history. FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the overwhelming response as a powerful reflection of football’s universal appeal.

“The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the greatest and most inclusive show on the planet, with more than 150 million tickets already requested in only the first 15 days, making this edition 30 times oversubscribed,” Infantino said.
“This incredible demand from fans in over 200 countries truly shows how loved our game is globally. We are going to make history in North America as we bring the world together like never before.”

The scale of interest already places the 2026 tournament in rare territory, with ticket demand exceeding several times the cumulative attendance of all World Cup matches played since the competition began in 1930.

Set to feature an expanded 48-team format, the tournament will include 104 matches across 16 host cities in the three host nations, marking a significant evolution in the World Cup’s structure and global footprint.

The current Random Selection Draw ticketing phase will remain open until January 13, and FIFA has stressed that all valid applications carry equal weight regardless of when they are submitted.

Fans who miss out in this round will still have further opportunities, as additional ticket sales phases are expected ahead of the tournament’s opening match on June 11, 2026.

With demand already reaching historic levels, the countdown to World Cup 2026 is well underway, reinforcing its status as one of the most highly anticipated sporting events of all time.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Gianni Infantino – FIFA President (@gianni_infantino)

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on 2026 FIFA World Cup Sparks Global Rush With Ticket Requests.

The announcement confirms a 50 per cent increase in prize money, marking one of the most financially rewarding tournaments in football history. In total, participating teams will share a record $727 million (£544.8m), a figure approved by FIFA’s council as part of the competition’s overall distribution plan.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino described the move as another step toward making the World Cup a landmark event, not just in scale but in its economic impact on the global football community. According to him, the expanded financial rewards underline FIFA’s commitment to ensuring that the tournament benefits football nations across all continents.

The development comes just a day after FIFA announced the release of a limited number of £45 tickets for all 104 matches at the 2026 World Cup, following widespread criticism over the initial ticket pricing structure.

Beyond prize money, FIFA’s council also approved the creation of a post-conflict recovery fund, aligned with its goal of promoting football’s unifying values. The initiative follows an earlier announcement by Infantino at the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit for Peace on October 13, 2025, where he revealed plans for a support mechanism to assist regions affected by conflict.

With the tournament expanding to 48 teams for the first time, FIFA has allocated $655 million in performance-based prize money, alongside an additional $1.5 million per team for preparation costs. This means every country that qualifies for the World Cup is guaranteed at least $10.5 million, regardless of how far they progress.

Prize money breakdown for the 2026 FIFA World Cup:

• Champions: $50 million
• Runners-up: $33 million
• Third place: $29 million
• Fourth place: $27 million
• Quarter-finalists (5th–8th): $19 million each
• Round of 16 (9th–16th): $15 million each
• Round of 32 (17th–32nd): $11 million each
• Group stage (33rd–48th): $9 million each
• Preparation fee (all teams): $1.5 million each (in addition)

With these figures, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be not only the biggest tournament in FIFA’s history by size, but also the most financially rewarding — a development expected to have lasting effects on football development worldwide.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Gianni Infantino – FIFA President (@gianni_infantino)

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on FIFA Announces Biggest Prize Money Ever for 2026 World Cup.

With the tournament set to unfold across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026, anticipation has reached fever pitch.

This edition marks a historic shift for global football, the first World Cup hosted by three nations and the first to welcome an expanded cast of 48 teams.

The new format introduces 12 groups of four, with the top two teams and the eight best third-placed teams advancing, creating more pathways to glory and more room for surprises.

The draw itself delivered drama in abundance. Defending champions Brazil landed in a fascinating Group C, where they will clash with Morocco’s fearless Atlas Lions, a resurgent Scotland, and the unpredictable Haiti. Across the continent,

African giants like Ghana, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Senegal, Algeria, and Cape Verde now have a clear picture of their group-stage battles as they plot their route through football’s grandest tournament.

Global heavyweights Germany, Argentina, Spain, France, Portugal, and England all learned the journeys that could define their destiny.

Meanwhile, rising football nations will be eyeing their groups with hope, knowing that the expanded format might just open the door to a historic breakthrough.

With coaches already sketching out tactical blueprints, fans debating early favourites, and analysts scanning the brackets for potential “groups of death,” the road to 2026 has officially begun.

The full match schedule, including venues and kickoff times across North America, will be announced shortly, setting the stage for a World Cup designed to be bigger, louder, and more globally inclusive than ever.

Full Group Stage Draw—FIFA World Cup 2026

Group A: Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, European play-off D
Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, European play-off A
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti
Group D: USA, Australia, Paraguay, European play-off C
Group E: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curaçao
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Tunisia, European play-off B
Group G: Belgium, Iran, Egypt, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde
Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, FIFA Playoff Tournament 2
Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, Colombia, Uzbekistan, FIFA Playoff Tournament 1
Group L: England, Croatia, Panama, Ghana

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on 2026 World Cup Takes Shape as Draw Sparks Global Excitement.

How do the playoffs work?

Six countries earned a spot in this mini-tournament, with every confederation except UEFA represented. Since CONCACAF is hosting the 2026 World Cup, the confederation gets an extra place.

The draw seeds teams based on FIFA World Rankings. The top two teams automatically qualify for the playoff finals and are seeded for the draw, while the remaining four go in unseeded and play in the semi-finals.

Teams will be split into two separate paths, with the first team drawn going into the first path available. Importantly, CONCACAF representatives cannot face each other in the same path.

Who’s in the Play-Off Tournament?

• Seeded Pot: Democratic Republic of Congo (CAF), Iraq (AFC)
• Unseeded Pot: Jamaica (CONCACAF), Bolivia (CONMEBOL), Suriname (CONCACAF), New Caledonia (OFC)

When and where will the play-offs take place?

All matches will be played in Mexico during the international break in late March 2026, with Guadalajara and Monterrey hosting the games.

• If a match is deadlocked after ninety minutes, it moves on to extra time and, if necessary, a penalty shootout because there are no return legs.
• Following the draw, exact dates and kickoff times will be announced.

When is the draw?

The official draw will happen in Switzerland on November 20, 2025, starting at 13:00 CET.

Shortly afterwards, FIFA will hold a separate draw for the European Play-Offs, which features 16 European teams vying for World Cup qualification.

The countdown is on—these high-stakes clashes will decide the final entries for football’s biggest stage in 2026!

🚨 FIFA PLAY-OFFS ARE SET!

✅ 2 Nations into the FINALS:

🇨🇩 DR CONGO
🇮🇶 IRAQ

📈 4 Nations into the SEMIFINALS:

🇯🇲 JAMAICA
🇸🇷 SURINAME
🇧🇴 BOLIVIA
🇳🇨 NEW CALEDONIA pic.twitter.com/qYcSSjVPpj

— Football Rankings (@FootRankings) November 19, 2025

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Everything You Need to Know About the 2026 FIFA Inter-Confederation Play-Offs.

The Super Eagles advanced from Group C after a strong finish, including a crucial win over Benin to secure a top-two finish. Gabon, finishing second in Group F, narrowly missed out on topping their group to the Ivory Coast by a single point.

Match Kickoff:

🕓 4:00 PM GMT, Thursday, 13 November 2025
📍 Moulay Hassan Stadium, Rabat, Morocco

Where to Watch Live:

• FIFA+ (Online streaming)
• Sporty TV (Online streaming)
• DStv Stream
• Broadcast on DStv and GOtv across Africa

Team News:

• Nigeria: Manager Eric Chelle has almost a full-strength squad. Ademola Lookman returns from suspension, joining Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze in attack. Ola Aina remains sidelined due to injury.
• Gabon: Captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is back after suspension. Key absences due to injury include Jim Allevinah, Shavy Babicka, Medwin Biteghe, Michel Mboula, and Junior Noubi Fotso.

Fans can expect an intense battle as both sides aim to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup.

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Nigeria vs Gabon 2026 World Cup Playoff: Where and How to Watch.

According to sources close to the team, the players refused to train due to unpaid bonuses and allowances allegedly owed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The outstanding payments are said to include match bonuses, camp allowances, and other entitlements that have piled up over several years.

The players and technical staff reportedly reached a unanimous decision to suspend training until the NFF resolves these financial issues. The standoff comes just days before their decisive fixture, raising fears about the team’s readiness and morale ahead of the high-pressure encounter.

In a statement confirming the development, the team said:

“The full squad, including officials, withheld from training today in Morocco due to unresolved issues with outstanding payments. The Super Eagles are awaiting a quick resolution so they can continue preparations for Thursday’s game against Gabon.”

This latest dispute once again casts a spotlight on the recurring issue of unpaid wages and poor financial management within Nigerian football. Similar payment controversies have plagued the Super Eagles in past tournaments, often surfacing at critical moments.

With the nation’s World Cup ambitions hanging in the balance, fans and analysts are urging the NFF to move swiftly to settle the dispute and restore focus within the camp.

For now, the Super Eagles’ boycott serves as a stark reminder of the deeper administrative challenges that continue to threaten Nigeria’s footballing progress even as the team remains determined to fight for its place on the world stage.

WHAT NIGERIANS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE NFF VS. SUPER EAGLES’ SPECIAL BONUS IN MOROCCO. #PoojaInMorroco pic.twitter.com/gB7mJlW12v

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) November 11, 2025

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on Super Eagles Boycott Training Ahead of Crucial World Cup Playoff.

FIFA has announced the launch of a new annual honour, the FIFA Peace Prize Football Unites the World, which will be presented for the first time during the 2026 World Cup finals draw in Washington, DC, next month.

According to a statement from world football’s governing body on Wednesday, the award aims to “reward individuals who have taken exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace.”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the new prize reflects football’s power to bridge divides in a troubled world.

“In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it’s fundamental to recognise the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace,” Infantino said.

“Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations.”

Which two nations do you want to see face off at FIFA World Cup 26? 💭

The Final Draw takes place on Friday, 5 December at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. 🏆#WeAre26 pic.twitter.com/mthhURpAQn

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 5, 2025

The inaugural presentation will take place on December 5 at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where 48 teams will learn their group stage opponents for the expanded World Cup.

The announcement also comes after U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed in August that Washington would host the draw.

During a meeting with Infantino, Trump was handed the World Cup trophy, to which Infantino remarked, “We are uniting the world, Mr President, uniting the world, here in America.”

Trump, who has been lobbying for a Nobel Peace Prize, recently criticised the committee’s decision to award this year’s prize to Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first to feature 48 teams, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, spanning a record 104 matches across 16 host cities.

This post appeared first on Mp3bullet.ng... Read Original post on FIFA Introduces New ‘Peace Prize’ to Debut at 2026 World Cup Draw.