Zurich: FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing one of the biggest challenges of his leadership as criticism against him continues to grow. Despite increasing calls for his resignation from football figures and political leaders, Infantino has made it clear that he has no intention of stepping down and believes he still enjoys the backing of a majority of FIFA's member associations.

The latest developments come after Infantino held a seven-hour emergency meeting with senior FIFA officials in Rabat, Morocco, to discuss the ongoing crisis surrounding the world football governing body. According to reports, the meeting focused on the growing controversy following the collapse of FIFA's proposal to sell commercial stakes in the FIFA World Cup to private investors.

The commercial proposal reportedly faced strong resistance from several football administrators, national federations and stakeholders, who raised concerns over the long-term implications of bringing private investment into one of the sport's biggest global events. The opposition eventually forced FIFA to abandon the plan, triggering fresh scrutiny of Infantino's leadership.

Despite the setback, sources close to FIFA believe the president remains confident of retaining enough support to continue in office. Much of that backing is understood to come from member associations across Africa, Asia and South America, regions that have consistently supported several of Infantino's reforms during his tenure.

Following the lengthy internal discussions in Morocco, Infantino was seen attending a Women's Africa Cup of Nations match alongside FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, signalling that FIFA's day-to-day operations would continue despite the ongoing controversy.

Pressure on the FIFA president intensified after former Portugal captain Luis Figo publicly demanded his resignation. Figo accused Infantino of damaging the credibility of FIFA's highest office and criticised his leadership in unusually strong terms. The former Ballon d'Or winner argued that the organisation now requires new leadership to restore confidence among football stakeholders.

The criticism has also expanded beyond the football community. Reports indicate that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has joined voices questioning FIFA's recent decisions, adding a political dimension to the controversy. At the same time, reports of disagreements linked to Morocco's role in FIFA-related matters have further increased pressure on the governing body ahead of several major international tournaments.

Political observers believe the involvement of government leaders reflects the growing global influence of FIFA's decisions, particularly as preparations continue for upcoming World Cup events. With football becoming increasingly connected to commercial investment, infrastructure and international diplomacy, developments within FIFA are drawing attention far beyond the sporting world.

Despite the criticism, there is currently no indication that Infantino intends to resign. Officials familiar with FIFA's internal structure note that the organisation's president is elected by its 211 member associations, making continued political support within the Congress crucial for any leadership challenge.

Supporters of Infantino argue that his presidency has expanded football development programmes, increased financial support for member federations and overseen the expansion of several FIFA competitions. They also point to broader participation in international football under his administration.

Critics, however, believe the recent controversies have raised fresh questions about governance, transparency and decision-making within FIFA. The collapse of the commercial investment proposal has become a focal point for those demanding greater accountability from football's governing body.

For now, the FIFA president appears determined to weather the growing criticism. However, with calls for his resignation becoming louder and political scrutiny increasing, the coming months are expected to be significant for both Infantino and the future direction of world football's governing organisation.

Played in Miami, the match tested both teams physically and mentally as England had to come from behind before sealing victory in extra time. The result keeps Thomas Tuchel's side on course for a second World Cup title, while Norway's impressive campaign came to an end despite another determined performance.

Norway struck first in the 36th minute through Andreas Schjelderup, who capitalised on England's defensive lapse to give his side the lead. The goal rewarded Norway's positive approach, with Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard helping create several dangerous moments during the opening half.

England, however, responded just before the interval. Jude Bellingham produced a composed finish in stoppage time to restore parity, ensuring the teams entered the break level after an entertaining first 45 minutes.

The second half saw both sides create opportunities without finding a breakthrough. England enjoyed more possession but struggled to convert it into clear-cut chances, while Norway continued to threaten on the counter-attack. A potential second Norwegian goal was ruled out after a VAR review, keeping the contest level and forcing extra time.

Just minutes into the additional period, Bellingham delivered once again. The Real Madrid midfielder reacted quickest after a goalkeeping error inside the penalty area and scored from close range to complete his brace, giving England a 2-1 advantage they successfully defended until the final whistle.

The victory highlighted Bellingham's remarkable tournament form. His two goals took his tally to six in the competition, placing him among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot while further strengthening his reputation as England's standout performer during the World Cup.

Despite the result, Norway earned widespread praise for their display. Making their deepest World Cup run in decades, the Scandinavian side pushed one of the tournament favourites throughout the match. Haaland was largely kept under control by England's defence and was unable to add to his goal tally before being substituted during extra time.

England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged after the match that his team was not at its best and admitted improvements would be necessary before the semi-finals. While pleased with the fighting spirit shown by his players, he indicated that England would need a more complete performance against stronger opposition.

The Three Lions have now reached the World Cup semi-finals for the fourth time in the last five major international tournaments, underlining their consistency on football's biggest stage. Their next challenge will come against either defending champions Argentina or Switzerland, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.

For Norway, the defeat ends a memorable campaign that saw the team exceed expectations and showcase the quality of a new generation led by Haaland, Ødegaard and Schjelderup. Although they fell short of the semi-finals, their performances throughout the tournament have provided optimism for the future.

England, meanwhile, remain in the hunt for global glory, with Bellingham continuing to inspire their bid for World Cup success.

Led by captain Kylian Mbappe, the French side controlled key moments of the contest and eventually found the breakthrough in the second half after Morocco had resisted sustained pressure for much of the match.

France began aggressively and looked dangerous from the opening whistle. Their first major opportunity arrived in the fifth minute when Dayot Upamecano met a delivery inside the box, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced an excellent save to keep the scores level.

The European side continued to push forward and created several chances during the opening period. Morocco, however, remained disciplined defensively and relied on Bounou's reflexes to stay in the contest.

One of the biggest moments of the first half came when France were awarded a penalty after Noussair Mazraoui was adjudged to have fouled Mbappe inside the box. The French captain stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Bounou once again came to Morocco's rescue with a crucial save that kept hopes alive for the African side.

Despite dominating possession and territory, France were unable to break the deadlock before the interval. Morocco's defensive organisation frustrated the 2018 world champions, and the teams went into half-time with the score still level.

The momentum shifted decisively after the break.

France increased the tempo of their attacks and began stretching the Moroccan defence with quicker passing and movement in the final third. Their persistence was rewarded in the 60th minute when Mbappe produced a superb curling finish to beat Bounou and give his side a deserved 1-0 lead.

The goal was particularly significant for the French skipper, taking his tally in the tournament to eight goals and strengthening his position among the competition's leading scorers.

Morocco barely had time to recover before France struck again.

Six minutes after opening the scoring, Mbappe turned provider. His precise pass found Ousmane Dembele in space, and the winger calmly finished to double France's advantage. The goal put Didier Deschamps' side firmly in control and left Morocco facing an uphill battle.

From that point onward, France managed the game effectively. Their midfield dictated possession while the defence prevented Morocco from creating clear-cut opportunities. The African side attempted to push forward in search of a comeback, but France remained organised and composed throughout the closing stages.

The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 victory and another major milestone for the French national team.

France's latest semi-final appearance continues an impressive run on football's biggest stage. The team lifted the World Cup trophy in 2018 and finished runners-up in 2022. Their qualification for the 2026 semi-finals further underlines their consistency at the highest level of international football.

For Morocco, the defeat brought an end to a memorable tournament journey. The team once again demonstrated resilience and defensive discipline, but ultimately struggled to contain France's attacking quality in the second half.

France will now turn their attention to the semi-finals, where they will look to move one step closer to another World Cup final appearance. The first semi-final is scheduled to be played on July 15, with the French side aiming to keep their title ambitions alive.

Mbappe has already scored seven goals in the competition and trails Messi by just one strike. A goal against Morocco would see the France forward overtake the Argentine icon and strengthen his position among the leading contenders for the tournament’s top scorer award.

France enter the quarter-final in commanding form. Didier Deschamps’ side have won all five of their matches so far and have looked increasingly dominant with every outing. Their campaign began with convincing victories over Norway, Iraq and Senegal in the group stage before they comfortably overcame Sweden in the Round of 32. A narrow but disciplined 1-0 win over Paraguay in the Round of 16 secured their place in the last eight.

The French attack has been one of the most effective units in the tournament, with Mbappe leading the charge alongside a talented supporting cast that includes Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola. Their ability to create chances from wide areas and transition quickly has troubled opponents throughout the competition.

Standing in their way is a Morocco side that continues to defy expectations. Widely regarded as one of the tournament’s surprise packages, Morocco remain unbeaten and have earned a reputation for resilience and defensive discipline.

Their journey to the quarter-finals has included victories over Haiti, Scotland and Canada, while they also held Brazil to a draw during the group stage. Morocco’s Round of 32 encounter against the Netherlands went to penalties after a hard-fought draw, with the African side emerging victorious in the shootout.

The match also carries an element of unfinished business. France and Morocco last met at a FIFA World Cup during the 2022 semi-final, where France secured a 2-0 victory. Morocco will be eager to rewrite that script and reach another historic milestone on the world stage.

Historically, France have enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture. The two nations have met six times in international football, with France winning four matches. Morocco have registered one victory, while one encounter ended in a draw. This will be only the second World Cup meeting between the sides.

One of the most intriguing battles could unfold between Mbappe and Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi. The two players share a close friendship off the field through their time together at club level, but on Wednesday night they will find themselves on opposite sides of a crucial tactical duel.

Hakimi has been central to Morocco’s defensive success and will be tasked with limiting the influence of one of the most dangerous attackers in world football. How effectively Morocco contain Mbappe could go a long way in determining the outcome of the contest.

While Morocco’s defensive structure and counter-attacking threat make them dangerous opponents, France appear to have greater squad depth and attacking firepower. However, knockout football often produces unexpected twists, and Morocco have already demonstrated their ability to frustrate and overcome stronger opponents.

With a semi-final berth at stake and individual milestones within reach, the quarter-final promises a compelling contest between one of football’s traditional powerhouses and a team determined to continue its remarkable World Cup run.

The Norwegian side secured a famous win to eliminate Brazil and reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the country's history. As the final whistle blew, Solbakken was seen embracing family members on the touchline, a moment that carried far greater significance than a football victory.

Twenty-five years ago, the former midfielder came close to losing his life.

In 2001, while playing professionally in Denmark, Solbakken suffered a cardiac arrest during training. His heart reportedly stopped beating for seven minutes, and he remained in a coma for more than a day. The incident abruptly ended his playing career and raised serious concerns about his survival.

Reflecting on that period in previous interviews, Solbakken revealed that his family had prepared for the worst. Doctors advised him that returning to professional football would be impossible. What followed, however, was a remarkable second chapter that eventually transformed him into one of Scandinavia's most respected football coaches.

The latest triumph over Brazil adds another emotional layer to his connection with the South American giants.

As a player, Solbakken was part of the Norway squad that stunned Brazil 2-1 during the group stage of the 1998 FIFA World Cup. That result helped Norway reach the knockout stage for the first time. Nearly three decades later, he has repeated history from the dugout, guiding the national team to an even bigger achievement.

Norway's current World Cup campaign has exceeded expectations. After qualifying directly for the tournament with a perfect record in the qualifiers, the team advanced through the group stage before defeating Ivory Coast and then Brazil in the knockout rounds.

The success marks a significant turnaround for a side that failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 European Championship. Despite those disappointments, the Norwegian Football Federation retained faith in Solbakken, a decision that is now paying dividends on the biggest stage.

His coaching career began after retirement and included spells in Denmark, England and Germany. Solbakken's most notable achievements came with FC Copenhagen, where he established himself as one of the most successful managers in Scandinavian football.

When he took charge of Norway in December 2020, expectations were high but results did not arrive immediately. Building a competitive national team required patience, particularly with a generation of talented players still developing.

That generation has now come of age.

The current squad is led by stars such as Erling Haaland, Martin Ødegaard and Alexander Sørloth. Against Brazil, Haaland once again proved decisive, scoring twice to send Norway into the quarter-finals. The Manchester City striker has now scored seven goals in the tournament and is among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot.

Norway's rise has captured attention across the football world, not only because of the quality of its players but also because of the resilience shown by its coach.

Following the historic victory, Solbakken described the occasion as one of the greatest moments in Norwegian football history. For a man whose playing career ended after a life-threatening medical emergency, leading his country to an unprecedented World Cup quarter-final represents a journey few could have imagined.

Norway will now look to continue its dream run, but regardless of what happens next, Solbakken's story has already become one of the defining narratives of the tournament.

Balogun was subsequently cleared to participate in the knockout clash against Belgium, becoming the center of one of the tournament’s biggest off-field debates. Despite his inclusion, the United States suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat against Belgium and exited the competition.

The incident is being described as an unprecedented moment in World Cup history, with critics arguing that political intervention should not influence sporting disciplinary decisions. Belgium’s football authorities and several European football stakeholders have reportedly raised concerns over FIFA’s handling of the case.

Red Card Decision Reversed

The 25-year-old striker had been shown a red card during a previous knockout fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina after a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic. Under standard tournament regulations, the dismissal would have resulted in a one-match suspension.

However, FIFA’s disciplinary review process ultimately allowed Balogun to feature against Belgium. The decision prompted objections from Belgian football officials, who questioned the basis for overturning the suspension.

Balogun entered the match having already scored three goals during the tournament and was considered one of the United States’ key attacking players.

Trump Confirms Involvement

Ahead of the Round of 16 encounter, US President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged speaking with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the suspension.

According to the reported remarks, Trump stated that he had requested FIFA to review the decision and expressed his view that the challenge did not warrant a red card. He later welcomed FIFA’s ruling, arguing that keeping Balogun out of the tournament would have been unfair.

The comments immediately triggered debate across the football world, with critics questioning whether political figures should be involved in disciplinary matters during major international tournaments.

FIFA Defends Its Process

FIFA President Gianni Infantino responded to the criticism by maintaining that the decision was taken independently by the organization’s disciplinary committee.

According to FIFA, every case is assessed on the basis of available evidence and tournament regulations. The governing body insisted that the review process remained impartial and that no external influence determined the final outcome.

Nevertheless, the episode has intensified discussions about transparency and governance within world football, particularly during the sport’s biggest event.

Questions Over Sporting Independence

FIFA has long maintained that its decisions are independent of political influence. As a result, the Balogun case has generated renewed scrutiny regarding the separation between sports administration and political intervention.

Football observers noted that while world leaders have previously commented on controversial refereeing decisions, direct involvement in disciplinary reviews is extremely rare.

The controversy has become one of the most talked-about stories of the tournament, overshadowing the United States’ elimination and shifting attention toward FIFA’s decision-making framework.

Historical Context

The Balogun case has also revived discussion about previous disciplinary controversies in World Cup history.

One of the most notable examples occurred during the 1962 FIFA World Cup, when Brazilian star Garrincha was sent off in the semi-final against Chile but was ultimately allowed to participate in the final. Brazil went on to defeat Czechoslovakia and lift the trophy.

While disciplinary procedures have evolved significantly since then, the latest controversy has once again highlighted how decisions involving player eligibility can become major talking points on football’s biggest stage.

The result marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, with Norway advancing to the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. They will now face England, who secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Mexico to book their place in the last eight.

At MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Norway produced a disciplined and clinical performance led by star striker Erling Haaland, who scored both goals to eliminate one of football’s traditional powerhouses. Brazil, despite enjoying significant possession and creating several opportunities, failed to convert key chances and paid the price against a resilient Norwegian side.

The match remained goalless at halftime, though Brazil had an excellent opportunity to take the lead in the 15th minute. Following a VAR review, the South American giants were awarded a penalty. However, midfielder Bruno Guimaraes saw his effort brilliantly saved by experienced Norwegian goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who went on to make several crucial stops throughout the contest.

Nyland denied attempts from Gabriel Martinelli and Vinicius Junior as Norway held firm under sustained Brazilian pressure. The missed penalty proved costly as Norway grew into the game after the break.

The breakthrough arrived in the 72nd minute when Andreas Schjelderup delivered an inviting cross from the left flank and Haaland powered home a header to give Norway a 1-0 advantage. Brazil pushed forward in search of an equaliser but left themselves exposed at the back.

Deep into stoppage time, Haaland struck again. The Manchester City forward calmly beat his marker before slotting the ball through defender Danilo’s legs and into the net, effectively sealing Norway’s historic victory. The goals took Haaland’s tally in the tournament to seven, drawing him level with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.

Neymar pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 100th minute, but the goal only reduced the deficit. Moments later, the final whistle confirmed Brazil’s earliest World Cup elimination since 1990.

The match also marked the end of an era for Brazilian football. Shortly after the defeat, Neymar announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career with the national team.

“I gave everything I had. My journey started here and now it ends here. My chapter with Brazil is over,” the 34-year-old said after the match.

The symbolism was significant. Neymar made his Brazil debut at the same venue in 2010 against the United States and chose the same stadium to bid farewell to international football. He confirmed that he will continue playing club football and remains under contract with Brazilian side Santos FC.

Despite injury struggles in recent years, Neymar leaves behind an extraordinary international legacy. He represented Brazil in 130 matches, making him the country’s second-most capped player behind Cafu. His goal against Norway took his international tally to 80 goals, surpassing Pele’s record of 77.

The strike also saw Neymar equal another iconic milestone, becoming only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Brazil’s elimination extended another unwanted trend. It was the sixth consecutive World Cup in which the Selecao were knocked out by a European nation, following defeats to France (2006), the Netherlands (2010), Germany (2014), Belgium (2018), Croatia (2022) and now Norway (2026).

Elsewhere, England advanced to a third successive World Cup quarter-final after overcoming Mexico 3-2 in a thrilling contest. Jude Bellingham scored twice in quick succession before Harry Kane added a penalty in the second half. England held on despite playing with ten men for more than 35 minutes following Jarell Quansah’s red card.

The quarter-final clash between Norway and England now promises to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the tournament, with Norway chasing another historic milestone and England seeking a return to the World Cup semi-finals.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage delivered another exciting round of action on June 17, with England and Colombia registering convincing victories to move to the top of their groups. England defeated Croatia 4-2 in a high-scoring Group L encounter, while Colombia opened their campaign with a 3-1 win over World Cup debutants Uzbekistan in Group K.

With the tournament expanded to 48 teams for the first time, every result carries added significance. The top two teams from each of the 12 groups, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will qualify for the Round of 32. As a result, early victories can provide a crucial advantage in the race for qualification.

England, Colombia, Argentina, Germany, Mexico and several other contenders have made positive starts to their campaigns. However, traditional powerhouses such as Portugal, Spain and Brazil have already dropped points, adding further intrigue to the tournament.

England and Colombia Make Strong Statements

England produced one of the most impressive performances of the tournament so far by defeating Croatia 4-2 in Group L. Captain Harry Kane led from the front with two goals, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also found the net.

The victory not only earned England three valuable points but also strengthened their goal difference, which could prove decisive later in the group stage. Croatia, meanwhile, will need a strong response in their upcoming fixtures to keep their qualification hopes alive.

In Group K, Colombia enjoyed a comfortable 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan. Goals from Daniel Munoz, Luis Diaz and Jaminton Campaz ensured a winning start and placed the South American side at the top of the group standings.

The same group also witnessed a surprise result as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo. Despite featuring veteran star Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal failed to secure all three points, while DR Congo celebrated a historic result in their World Cup campaign.

Tight Competition Across Several Groups

Group A is currently led by Mexico and South Korea, both of whom secured victories in their opening matches. Group B remains completely open after both fixtures ended in draws, leaving all four teams level on points.

In Group C, Scotland moved to the top after defeating Haiti, while Brazil and Morocco shared the points in a hard-fought draw. The United States and Australia lead Group D following impressive opening victories.

Group E saw Germany produce a dominant display, thrashing Curaçao 7-1 to register the biggest win of the tournament so far. Ivory Coast also began their campaign with a narrow but important victory over Ecuador.

Sweden lead Group F after a convincing win over Tunisia, while Japan and the Netherlands played out a draw. Groups G and H remain evenly balanced, with all teams level on points after their opening fixtures ended without winners.

Qualification Battle Intensifies

The expanded World Cup format means that teams finishing third in their groups still have a realistic chance of progressing. Consequently, every point earned during the group stage could have a major impact on qualification scenarios.

Reports suggest that upcoming fixtures such as England vs Ghana, Portugal vs Uzbekistan, and Argentina vs Austria could significantly influence the standings. Teams that secure consecutive victories will move closer to the knockout rounds, while those dropping points may find themselves under increasing pressure.

As the tournament progresses, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Points Table is expected to change rapidly, making every match crucial in the quest for football's biggest prize.

United States President Donald Trump could play a prominent role during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final trophy presentation, with reports indicating that FIFA may permit him to personally hand over the trophy to the tournament winners if he chooses to do so.

The possibility has sparked discussion among football fans and observers because it would differ from the customary World Cup presentation procedure followed in previous editions of the tournament.

Traditional Trophy Protocol

Under standard FIFA World Cup protocol, the trophy is usually placed on a designated plinth near the presentation area after the final. Members of the winning team then receive the trophy before carrying it onto the celebration podium, where official photographs and victory celebrations take place.

However, sources familiar with the planning process suggest FIFA is unlikely to object if Trump decides to personally present the trophy and remain on stage during the celebrations.

While no official confirmation has been issued regarding the final ceremony format, the reports have fuelled speculation about a potentially unprecedented moment at football's biggest event.

Club World Cup Precedent

The discussion stems largely from Trump's appearance during the recent FIFA Club World Cup trophy presentation.

After the final, Trump handed the trophy to players of Chelsea FC and remained on stage as captain Reece James lifted the trophy alongside teammates.

The moment attracted widespread attention and led to questions about whether a similar role could be envisioned for the World Cup final next year.

Trump was unable to attend the United States men's national team's opening match against Paraguay due to scheduling commitments but is expected to be present at the World Cup final scheduled at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

Tunisia Makes Coaching Change

In a separate World Cup development, Tunisia has become the first team to change its head coach during the tournament.

Head coach Sabri Lamouchi was relieved of his duties following the team's 5-1 defeat against Sweden.

Reports indicate the decision was influenced not only by the heavy loss but also by concerns over internal team dynamics and dressing-room issues. Lamouchi's tenure lasted just five matches.

Former national team coach Mondher Kebaier is reportedly being considered as an interim replacement.

Tunisia still faces crucial group-stage fixtures against Japan and Netherlands as it attempts to remain competitive in the tournament.

Neymar Recovery Monitored

Meanwhile, concerns remain over the fitness of Brazilian star Neymar ahead of the latter stages of the competition.

According to reports, Brazil's medical staff are taking a cautious approach as the forward continues to recover from a Grade-2 calf injury suffered while playing for Santos FC in May.

The management is reportedly prioritising Neymar's availability for the knockout rounds rather than rushing him back during the group stage.

Focus on Knockout Stage

Neymar missed Brazil's opening match and is also expected to sit out the upcoming fixture against Haiti. While the 32-year-old has increased the intensity of his gym sessions, he has yet to resume full on-field training with the squad.

Brazilian officials believe a cautious recovery plan will reduce the risk of aggravating the injury and maximise the player's chances of contributing later in the tournament.

With major storylines emerging both on and off the field, attention now turns to the coming weeks as teams battle for qualification and organisers prepare for what could be one of the most closely watched FIFA World Cup finals in recent history.