Norway dream big but defensive doubts cloud potential fairytale
June 2 : Norway will arrive at the World Cup carrying the weight of a golden generation and the anxiety that comes with it.
Diaz fuels Colombia's hopes on World Cup return
BOGOTA, June 2 : Colombia return to the World Cup after an eight-year absence counting on forward Luis Diaz to meet high expectations following a season in which he was directly involved in more than 40 goals for Bayern Munich.
Argentina seek to emulate Italy and Brazil as back-to-back champions
June 2 : Dripping talent and forged by success, Argentina aim to become the first men's team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962 and the only nation to do so entirely outside their own region.
With legacy intact, 'liberated' Messi can enjoy last hurrah
June 2 : When a euphoric Lionel Messi lifted the World Cup at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar at around 9 p.m. on December 18, 2022, he finally had nothing left to prove.
DR Congo determined to put aside poor image left half century ago
June 2 : After a 52-year wait, the Democratic Republic of Congo return to the World Cup determined to expunge the image of naivety and folly left behind on their only previous appearance.
Algeria hope to turn talent into results on World Cup return
CAIRO, June 2 : Algeria return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014 carrying the familiar mix of promise, pressure and unpredictability that has long defined one of Africa's most gifted footballing nations.
Uzbekistan reach first World Cup as government investment pays off
June 2 : Uzbekistan's qualification for their first World Cup marks the high point to date of a steady climb to the upper reaches of the global game in the 35 years since gaining independence from the former Soviet Union.
Austria back from exile and aiming for World Cup knockout success under Rangnick
June 2 : After 28 years in the World Cup wilderness, Austria return to the global stage with a golden generation shaped by Ralf Rangnick's tactical overhaul and intent on building upon an impressive showing at the last Euros.