Barcelona FC news

After a rocky start, Spain have won their group and are advancing into the knockout rounds at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1-0 win over Uruguay. We take a look at how Barcelona players have performed in the group stage as Spain looks to continue their quest for a second star.

Pau Cubarsí

Still just 19, Cubarsí has made a big impression in his first major international tournament. He has started all three games and played the full 90 each time, as Spain have kept three clean sheets.

Pedri

Pedri is a leader for Spain and has started every match, though he only completed 90 minutes once. One of the main engines for Spain so far, though he will have to reach into his magic bag more than once if Spain are to win the World Cup.

Lamine Yamal

Yamal has come into the World Cup not fully fit, but he’s slowly recovered sharpness. He scored his first goal just 10 minutes into his first World Cup start, and he’s shown flashes of his brilliant passing and dribbling. He has played around 140 minutes, but it’s clear Spain are a different team with him than without him.

Dani Olmo

Olmo started one game, against Saudi Arabia, and gave an assist in that one, too. His involvement against Cape Verde was scarcely a cameo, but he did play half an hour against Uruguay. Signs point to him as a key substitute, or potentially a starter, for the rest of the tournament.

Ferran Torres

Torres started the first game, played a whole half in the second, and was given just 14 minutes in the last. This is a worrying trend as he has struggled with finishing. His movement and effort is good, but Spain need an in-form goalscorer and that is not him, at the moment.

Gavi

Gavi started the first match, against Cape Verde, in an unfamiliar role. Shifted out to the wing, Gavi did all right, but was not at his best. He has not been recalled into the team since, but perhaps if he is deployed as a midfielder he can start regaining Luis de la Fuente’s trust.

Eric García & Joan Garcia

Two players who are yet to feature. Barring an injury, Joan Garcia is unlikely to play as Unai Simón is preferred and keepers are rarely substituted. Eric may have some better luck, as he can fill in in multiple positions. However, at the moment De la Fuente has preferred other players above him.

Who do you think has been Barcelona’s top performer for Spain at World Cup 2026 so far? Tell us what you think in the comments below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Spain’s win over Uruguay has sent Marcelo Bielsa’s side out of World Cup 2026 and means that Ronald Araujo is the first Barcelona player to be eliminated from the tournament.

Araujo will depart the World Cup without playing a single minute for Uruguay. The defender sustained an injury in training before the start of the tournament and simply didn’t recover in time to feature.

The defender has now been to two World Cups but is yet to feature at all. He was also part of the squad in Qatar in 2022 but, once again, injury meant that he didn’t see any game time.

Araujo’s brother was critical of Uruguay after the Barcelona star was sidelined ahead of the start of the tournament in what’s been a difficult World Cup for Bielsa’s men.

Uruguay managed just two points and scored only three goals in three games, finishing behind Cape Verde in the standings in Group G.

There were also rumors of unrest in the camp ahead of the Spain game, with players reportedly unhappy with Bielsa’s training methods and tactics.

Uruguay’s early exit ends what’s been a difficult campain for Araujo. He took a mental health break from Barcelona mid-way through the season before returning to action but only played a bit-part role in the final weeks of the campaign.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Frenkie de Jong and the Netherlands into the knockout stages – FC Barcelona
Ronald Koeman’s team top their group to advance in the competition with the Barça midfielder a key factor.

Norway 1-4 France: Dembele hits terrific treble as France top group – FIFA
Ousmane Dembele struck a magnificent first-half hat-trick as France made it three wins out of three against a depleted Norway team.

Uruguay 0-1 Spain: Spain hand Uruguay knockout blow – FIFA
Spain’s possession game proved too much for Uruguay as La Roja overcame La Celeste to secure top spot in Group H.

Barça activate “Operation Exit” – Mundo Deportivo
Barcelona hope to finalize Ansu Fati’s sale to Monaco for €11 million before June 30, while Ter Stegen is open to a loan move to Ajax. Marc Casadó, valued between 20 and 30 million, is open to new challenges, and Roony Bardghji is also expected to go out on loan to get playing time.

Julián remains firm despite the pressure from Atlético – Mundo Deportivo
The Argentine remains determined to join Barça despite the messages he has received from his club since requesting a transfer to fulfill his dream.

Marc Bernal, absolute loyalty to Barça: ‘no’ to the Premier League – Mundo Deportivo
The midfielder has attracted interest from English clubs, including Arsenal, but his intention and sole objective is to fulfill his contract with Barcelona until 2029.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

The World Cup is not just about the superstars and best nations, it is also about the new stars created by the biggest tournament in sports with the biggest audience watching somewhat unknown players raise their stock in huge ways.

Several players in the past have earned big transfers based on their World Cup performances, and this tournament is doing the same. We’ve already seen the big names put on a show such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Vini Jr. and others, but plenty of lesser-known players are also catching the world’s eye.

Deniz Undav is Germany’s new hero, Anthony Elanga has scored two goals for Sweden including a screamer in their last game, Daichi Kamada has really impressed for Japan, Weston McKennie and Sergiño Dest have been outstanding for the United States, and Vozinha may earn one last big paycheck in his career after becoming the tournament’s cult hero with Cape Verde.

We also can’t forget about Yan Diomande, who adds more and more to his transfer fee with every performance for the Ivory Coast, Daniel Muñoz’s heroics for Colombia, Johan Manzambi’s breakout tournament with Switzerland, and many others.

With that in mind for today’s exercise, let’s completely overreact to the first two weeks of the World Cup and have some fun. It doesn’t matter who they are, who they play for, how unlikely it is to sign them, their age, or their reputation at club level prior to this tournament.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

Which player would you sign for Barcelona based solely on their World Cup 2026 performances?

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa admits his team face a tough test at World Cup 2026 later today when they come up against Lamine Yamal and Spain.

La Roja are one of the favorites for victory at the tournament, with Yamal having scored his first World Cup goal on his first start last time out against Saudi Arabia.

Bielsa was asked about Yamal and his plans to face Spain ahead of the game.

“He’s a game-changer. There will be arguments with the player who regularly faces him over position on the field. There will be help from the Uruguayan players to overshadow him because he’s a game-changer and a decisive player,” he told reporters.

“Do what we always do. Against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde we had ups and downs; what I want is for the team to be dynamic, to take the lead, and for us to be able to do so against a superior opponent to the previous two.

“Spain’s style of play is based on teamwork. Creating plays is a priority in all aspects of their game, so defending will be crucial and won’t be easy. One of the best ways to defend is to limit the opponent’s possession, and we’ll try to do just that.”

Uruguay’s preparations for the game have been marred by talk of unrest in the camp, with claims players are unhappy with Bielsa’s tactics and intense training sessions.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Pedri gives his blessing to the signing of Julián Álvarez: “I love it” – Mundo Deportivo
The Barça midfielder said in an interview on ‘Teledeporte’ that he doesn’t want to get involved in “club and player matters,” but that if the transfer goes through, the Argentinian will be “welcome.”

Ter Stegen, Ajax’s priority for a loan – Mundo Deportivo
The German goalkeeper knows he won’t have a prominent role at Barça, and sources in the Netherlands say he would welcome a move to Amsterdam, where he would reunite with new Ajax coach Míchel.

Fermín López shares his recovery on social media: “Why do we fall? To learn to get back up” – Mundo Deportivo
The FC Barcelona midfielder continues to recover from the fracture in the fifth metatarsal of his right foot that prevented him from playing in the World Cup.

Barça Atlètic announce five departures – Mundo Deportivo
Víctor Barberá, Joaquín Delgado, Ureña, Ander Astralaga and Emilio Bernad will not continue next season.

Sama Nomoko doesn’t stop even for vacation – Mundo Deportivo
The youth academy player suffered a significant knee injury six months ago, his recovery is progressing well and he continues to attend training at the Ciutat Esportiva daily.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen is reportedly closing in on completing a one-year loan move to Eredivisie side Ajax.

According to Diario AS, the German “will” play for the Dutch side next season and he is “on the verge” of joining Michel’s side.

The new Ajax boss is said to have been key to the deal and wanted to be reunited with Ter Stegen after working briefly with the goalkeeper last season.

Ter Stegen joined Girona on loan in the winter window but barely played for the club after sustaining a serious hamstring injury that required surgery and kept him sidelined for the rest of the campaign.

He remains contracted to Barcelona until 2028 but looks set to spend next season away from Catalunya.

The news means that the goalkeeping situation at Barcelona is starting to clear up. The club have already waved goodbye to Inaki Pena, while Diego Kochen is expected to sign for Danish side Lyngby on loan.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Marc Cucurella says there was “no interest from Barcelona” in his services after making a surprise move from Chelsea to Real Madrid.

The left-back came through the Barca academy but has now signed a six-year deal with Los Blancos.

Ahead of the transfer, there were rumors of interest from Barcelona and Atletico and Cucurella has now set the record straight.

“No interest from Barcelona, but Atletico yes. Barca told me they wanted to sign a left-back, but that was it, it stayed at that,” he told Radioestadio Noche.

“There was nothing more to it, really. I think they’re focused on signing a striker, but I haven’t heard anything. In the end, there’s a world of difference between that and it actually happening, there’s nothing more to it than that.

Cucurella is currently on international duty with eight Barcelona players in the Spain squad and admitted there was plenty of banter flying about after the deal was confirmed.

“There have been a few jokes, now we’ll be rivals. But it’s all in good fun,” he said. “We’re very happy here now and we have the same goal.”

Cucurella has already been warned by Dani Olmo that he’s “going to suffer” next season when he comes up against Lamine Yamal in El Clasico.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Permutations for the World Cup Blaugranes ahead of the final group games – FC Barcelona
The situation for the FC Barcelona players and World Cup knockout phase qualification with one final round of group stage fixtures remaining.

Brazil’s Raphinha: ‘I will do everything within my power’ to play again at World Cup – ESPN
Raphinha injured his hamstring in Brazil’s 3-0 win against Haiti last weekend and faces a race against time to feature again at the tournament in North America.

Julián Álvarez, full of reasons to go to Barça – Mundo Deportivo
The Argentine hasn’t won a single title in two years at Atlético, nor has he enjoyed Simeone’s style of play. Several Barça players such as Gavi, Cubarsí, Olmo, Bernal and Araujo have not hesitated to speak out in favor of his arrival and have chosen him as the ideal signing.

Oyarzabal talks about his future, Barça and Real Sociedad – Mundo Deportivo
The international striker’s statistics and performances have positioned him as one of the names in this summer’s transfer market.

Mourinho, honest: “I hold no resentment towards Barça” – Mundo Deportivo
The Real Madrid coach has given an interview to ‘Vanity Fair’ in which he reminisces about his time at Barcelona, ​​talks about his return to the club, Kylian Mbappé, and much more.

At London City they already see Alexia Putellas dressed in light blue – Mundo Deportivo
The English club is very optimistic and confident in its sporting proposal and financial offer.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Spain star Mikel Oyarzabal has insisted he’s happy at Real Sociedad amid whispers he’s a potential target for Barcelona if the Catalans fail to sign Julian Alvarez this summer.

Barcelona have been offered hope of landing Alvarez this week after the striker admitted he wants to move on, but Atletico are furious with the situation and have said they will file a complaint to FIFA about the Catalans.

Hansi Flick’s side may therefore need a Plan B this summer, with Oyarzabal one of several names mentioned recently and even Gavi admitting he’d sign the striker for Barcelona.

Oyarzabal was therefore asked if he could guarantee he’ll stay at Real Sociedad while at World Cup 2026 and offered up the following response.

“I’m focused on helping the team win in three days. I’m where I want to be, at what I consider my home, Real Sociedad,” he told reporteres.

“My mind isn’t on that, but on arriving in Uruguay in the best possible condition.”

The striker bagged a brace last time out against Saudi Arabia and was also asked whether he feels underrated by the world press.

“I’m actually tired of answering this question; I don’t dwell on it,” he added. “What matters to me is what my teammates, my coach, the staff, and the people whose opinions actually count have to say.

“We know how football works these days, and it’s normal for people to talk, but I don’t let it bother me.”

Oyarzabal has 14 goals and seven assists in his past 13 Spain games and is likely to start again when La Roja face Uruguay in their final group fixture.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Jose Mourinho has insisted he has no bad feelings towards Barcelona after making his return to Real Madrid as manager ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Los Blancos have gone trophyless for the last two campaigns, while Barca have won two straight La Liga titles, and so have turned to the so-called Special One again.

Mourinho, who worked as a coach at Barcelona at the start of his career, says that he enjoyed his time at the club and the city and harbors no ill-feeling towards the Catalans.

“In Barcelona, as a family, we had an amazing, amazing period. My daughter went to Barcelona at one month old. My son was born in Barcelona. Me, my wife and the kids, we spent four amazing years in Barcelona. And I cannot have any bad feeling about it,” he told Vanity Fair.

“But football is football, and I played so many times against Barcelona, starting at Chelsea before I went to Inter. Big Champions League matches with Chelsea, then big Champions League matches with Inter, and then I went to Real Madrid. I think it was destiny that put us against each other.

“In the end, I don’t deny I love Real Madrid, and this is the reason I’m going back. But I don’t have bad feelings in relation to Barcelona at all. I just enjoy playing against them because in football, you enjoy playing against the best. The best push you to be better than you are.”

Mourinho and Real Madrid have already been busy in the transfer market ahead of the new campaign, bringing in Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate and Marc Cucurella and have also reportedly tied up a deal for Denzel Dumfries.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Just when everyone thought it was Raphinha’s time to shine, the Brazilian has sustained another injury, which threatens his participation at World Cup 2026.

The Selecao camp appears to be keeping its cards close to its chest, which in itself is a worry, and there has to be a concern that the winger might not even be available for pre-season duties with Barca.

An official statement read: “On Saturday, athlete Raphinha underwent imaging tests that confirmed a muscle injury in the back of his right thigh.  The player will follow an intensive treatment protocol under the supervision of the Brazilian National Team’s medical staff, aiming for recovery and a return to activity as soon as possible.”

It’s a situation that has to be treated with the utmost care, given that Raphinha has missed 24 games and spent over 100 days out for Brazil and Barca over the last year.

Two steps forward and one back has been a recurring theme, and it’s certainly one that Hansi Flick won’t want to see repeated throughout the 2026/27 campaign.

That’s because when Raphinha is on song, so are Barcelona. His work ethic and eye for goal have been a real feature for the team, and without it, it’s clear that the Blaugranes miss him dearly.

Yes, they managed to cover his absences somewhat with the decent form of Marcus Rashford, and the signing of Anthony Gordon is certainly an exciting one for the new season…

It’s even possible that the signing of the former Newcastle man was also with a view to replacing the Brazilian at some point precisely because of his injury concerns and ongoing talk of Saudi clubs willing to throw money at the forward.

The prospect of Barca actually selling Raphinha this summer suddenly doesn’t seem quite so outlandish. It would be incredibly harsh, of course, but football is unforgiving at the best of times, and if Barca are serious about continuing to challenge for the biggest club honours in the game, loyalty can only stretch so far.

In the meantime, all culers and the Barca backroom staff can do is hope that the injury isn’t as serious as it first appears, and that Raphinha can still play some part from Brazil in the knockout rounds with no further problems.

If not, then the start of the new campaign could take on a slightly different look for the team and, if they gel, then the winger might find it difficult to regain his place.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Argentina 2-0 Austria: Messi enters record books as Argentina reach knockouts – FIFA
Lionel Messi bounced back from missing an early penalty to become the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer as Argentina downed Austria.

France 3-0 Iraq: Centurion Mbappe fires France through – FIFA
Lionel Messi has a rival at the top of the FIFA World Cup scoring charts after another Kylian Mbappe brace sent France into the knockout stage.

Julián Álvarez bombshell: “The best thing for everyone is a transfer, I want to fulfill my dream” – Mundo Deportivo
The gesture that Barça were waiting for was made by the Atlético de Madrid forward after the Argentina-Austria match.

Vampeta stirs up controversy about Raphinha’s future, but the player’s entourage denies it – Mundo Deportivo
The former Brazilian international revealed that the striker needed to go to Saudi football due to financial problems.

Bielsa rules Araujo out for Spain-Uruguay – Mundo Deportivo
“Neither De Arrascaeta nor Araujo have a chance of playing,” the Uruguay coach stated ahead of Friday’s match.

Ajax interested in a loan deal for Jofre Torrents – Mundo Deportivo
As reported by MD, Barça’s intention is to find him a club on loan, and Míchel’s team is one of those working to secure the services of the academy graduate.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Raphinha’s wife has revealed how the Barcelona star was left in tears after suffering another injury setback while on international duty with Brazil at World Cup 2026.

The forward was forced off against Haiti with another hamstring issue and it’s not yet known if he will be able to feature again at the tournament for Brazil.

Natalia Belloli says that the couple were both initially devastated by Raphinha’s latest injury issue.

“Honestly, it was one of the first times I was speechless. He was crying, and so was I,” she told Domingão com Huck.

“We spoke on the phone; the next day he underwent medical tests and came home for a while, where we were able to talk about the situation.

“Now he’s doing well: strong and sure of his purpose. That’s what matters: maintaining the right mindset and believing that better days are coming.”

Brazil have confirmed that Raphinha will undergo “intensive treatment” and stay with the squad at the tournament, but we’ll have to wait and see if he can play any further part for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Spanish football is like a money tree. World class players never stop sprouting up.

Spain has enough talent to build three teams that could be competitive at the World Cup. Winning it, however, requires a spark of creativity that can’t be taught in academies.

In Qatar, it was the Messi vs Mbappe showdown. As good as Argentina and France are without them, in order to make it to the finish line, especially in those games when your back is against the ropes, you need a player born with genius.

By now, it should be clear that Lamine Yamal is that player for Spain. With him, La Roja seem destined for a trophy. Without him, Spain could very well be looking at an early exit.

Against Saudi Arabia, Luis de la Fuente was feeling the pressure, and knew he had to risk playing Lamine even if he wasn’t one hundred percent fit.  It took approximately ten minutes for Lamine to put the game out of reach.

It’s not just because of the goal. Mikel Oyarzabal had two goals and an assist, but he still wasn’t the MVP of the game. That accolade goes to Lamine because of the way he struck fear into the hearts of Saudi Arabia from the first whistle. Having him on the field made the job that much easier for his Spanish teammates.

Let’s remember something though. Lamine tore his hamstring in April. There are risks of Spain learning the wrong lesson from this game.

De la Fuente will have to be smart with how he manages his young superstar’s minutes going forward. Lamine will do what his coach asks him to do, but his welfare must be protected.

Spain are dependent on him, that’s for sure, but over the next couple of weeks, they have to find a way to play well without him. Lamine cannot go 90 minutes. Not now at least. When the knockouts come calling, it could be 120 minutes that Spain needs to get the job done.

So yes, it’s ok to be excited again. Spain at their best are why we love the game. To be at their best, they do need Lamine.

But they are not out of the woods. What happened against Cape Verde is an important cautionary tale.

Spain is a flawed team, and without their best player, they can get exposed.

If they are to make it to the World Cup final, the supporting cast needs to step up against Uruguay, and in the first few knockout games.

This isn’t South Africa 2010 when Spain was loaded with Ballon d’Or caliber players.

This is the Lamine Yamal show.

It’s an exciting watch, but he needs a few reliable sidekicks in order to make the magical run possible.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Lamine Yamal opens his goalscoring account in the World Cup – FC Barcelona
The Barça number 10 scores his first goal in the tournament at the age of 18 years and 343 days.

Malaga confirm final 26/27 La Liga lineup – FC Barcelona
Victory against Almeria sees Malaga back in the top flight along with Racing and Deportivo.

Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia: Spain send statement with Saudi success – FIFA
Oyarzabal and Yamal on target in dominant display as Luis de la Fuente’s side showed their class with a comprehensive Group H victory.

Yamal nets ‘dream’ 1st World Cup goal as Spain answer critics – ESPN
Lamine Yamal said he had realized a childhood dream after scoring in his first World Cup start against Saudi Arabia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday.

A legend of England and Man United, in awe of Lamine – Mundo Deportivo
Wayne Rooney, who is commentating on the World Cup for the BBC, said “I love Lamine, he makes me smile.”

De Jong defends himself: “Many people don’t understand anything about football. They watch it, but they don’t understand it” – Mundo Deportivo
The Dutch footballer and Barcelona player responded to those who criticize his style of play.

Fermín, the second most valuable footballer in the world who is not at the World Cup – Mundo Deportivo
Only Georgian superstar Kvaratskhelia surpasses the Baçra midfielder in Transfermarkt’s market value.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Day 10 of World Cup 2026 brought more goals and excitement as the Netherlands and Japan both secured big wins. Elsewhere, World Cup debutants Curacao made history against Ecuador and Tunisia’s defeat ensures Herve Renard’s side will be making an early exit from the competition.

Five star Dutch destroy Sweden

Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands side destroyed Sweden 5-1 in Houston on Saturday afternoon. Brian Brobbey came into the team and struck the opener by poking home Cody Gakpo’s cross from the left after just five minutes.

NETHERLANDS FINDS THE EARLY LEAD OVER SWEDEN! 🇳🇱

Gakpo finds Brian Brobbey to make it 1-0 for the Dutch! pic.twitter.com/wzCO5Hy91R

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

An almost identical goal swiftly followed for the Netherlands. This time the move came down the right with Denzel Dumfries sliding in a cross for Brobbey to make it 2-0.

It's DOUBLE DUTCH in Houston 🇳🇱

Brian Brobbey guides this one into the back of the net for his second of the match pic.twitter.com/YguPtrLkiH

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

The Dutch extended their lead early in the second half. Dumfries was again the creator, fizzing a low ball across goal for an unmarked Gakpo to knock home at the far post.

The Liverpool star then grabbed a brace of his own, finishing off a rapid counter-attack by cutting inside his defender and lashing home a low shot.

"The Netherlands are running riot!" – @DFletcherSport🗣️

Cody Gakpo bags a brace on the clinical finish to make it 4-0 pic.twitter.com/NYujouyKDn

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Sweden did manage to pull one back through substitute Anthony Elanga but it proved to be only a consolation goal on a sobering afternoon for Graham Potter’s side.

56' – Anthony Elanga subs on for Sweden

59' – Anthony Elanga scores for Sweden pic.twitter.com/AUbgC8RIFz

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

The Netherlands completed an emphatic win late on through substitute Crysensio Summerville. The West Ham man teased two Swedish defenders and then rifled home to complete an impressive victory.

Crysencio Summerville scores from outside the area to make it 5-1 Netherlands!

Hit the night-night celly after too 😴 pic.twitter.com/JVQa2aIjWW

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Germany fight back to deny Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast upset Germany by taking the lead in their Group E encounter through midfielder Franck Kessie. Exciting talent Yan Diomande wreaked havoc down the left and played the ball into the penalty area where Kessie finally managed to slam home.

IVORY COAST TAKES THE LEAD OVER GERMANY! 🇨🇮

Yan Diomande sends a beautiful ball in and it's the captain Franck Kessié who cleans it up with the goal! pic.twitter.com/mRVfy6Ypkh

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 20, 2026

Germany were finding it tough going against Ivory Coast and needed super-sub Deniz Undav to turn things around. The Stuttgart forward equalised with a left-foot volley that flew into the roof of the net with just over 20 minutes remaining.

What a ball. What a finish.

Nadiem Amiri with a perfect ball for Deniz Undav to finish off 🇩🇪 pic.twitter.com/KIn1yDvTg5

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 20, 2026

Undav then broke Ivory Coast hearts deep into stoppage time by netting the winner. The substitute latched onto a cute ball into the penalty area and simply turned and fired past the goalkeeper to secure all three points for Julian Nagelsmann’s side.

WOULD YOU BELIEVE IT? 🤯

GERMANY TAKES THE LEAD IN STOPPAGE TIME! pic.twitter.com/hVrMbRwxFx

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 20, 2026

Curaco claim first ever World Cup point

World Cup debutants Curacao made history on Saturday by claiming a first ever point at the tournament with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador. In a goalless game, it was goalkeeper Eloy Room who was the hero for the minnows as he made a record-equalling 15 saves to deny Ecuador and secure a famous result for the Blue Wave.

Japan send Tunisia packing

Saturday’s final match brought a big win for Japan that ensures Tunisia will not make it past the group stage of World Cup 2026. Herve Renard replaced Sabri Lamouchi as boss after their opening defeat against Sweden but saw his side go behind after just four minutes when Daichi Kamada finished off a swift counter-attack from close range.

JAPAN OPENS THE NIGHT WITH A 4TH MINUTE GOAL! 🇯🇵

Daichi Kamada in the scoresheet! pic.twitter.com/ZY2U6PhCCA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Japan made it 2-0 in style through Ayase Ueda just after the half hour. The Feyenoord striker rifled a shot across goal and into the far corner from the edge of the box to double Japan’s lead.

Perfectly placed into the bottom corner from Ayase Ueda 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/L7eolqwe32

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Tunisia were undone again in the 69th minute when a clever flick over the defence sent Junya Ito running through on goal. He kept his composure to sidefoot the ball past the goalkeeper and effectively seal the win.

Beautiful build-up play to help set up Junya Ito's goal for Japan 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/XORfeaWuQA

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 21, 2026

Ueda then piled more misery on Tunisia late on by scoring Japan’s fourth on a looping header that sees the Samurai Blue move into second in the table ahead of a final group game against Sweden next time out.

Plenty of goals but which was your favorite? Have your say in our poll, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Andreas Christensen has agreed a two-year contract extension at Barcelona following negotiations with the club.

The Denmark international is out of contract this summer but is ready to pen a deal that runs until 2028, according to multiple reports.

🚨🔵🔴 Andreas Christensen, set to sign new deal until June 2028 at Barcelona. 🫱🏻‍🫲🏼

Agreement in place for Danish defender to stay at Barça conditions, as @QueThiJugues and @mundodeportivo reported. ✅

Two clubs (Italy and PL) approached Christensen but priority to Barça. pic.twitter.com/OmBofgoXyn

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026

According to Mundo Deportivo, the extension includes “an option to terminate the contract if either side is not satisfied at the end of the first year.”

Christensen has also taken a pay cut and has agreed to stay on despite receiving better financial offers from Saudi Arabia , the Premier League, and the Bundesliga, per MD.

Yet the defender’s renewal doesn’t mean that he will definitely stay at Barca. Reporter Matteo Moretto says: “It’s true, he has renewed, but Barcelona wants him out. He can leave even with the renewal.”

Christensen has proven a useful player at Barcelona but his injury record is a concern and saw him start only three games last season.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona have reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign teenage defender Josue Caicedo from LDU Quito in a transfer worth €2.5 million.

The Ecuadorian youngster will join Barcelona Atletic on loan with an option to buy this summer, according to an ‘exclusive’ from Fabrizio Romano.

🚨🔵🔴 EXCLUSIVE: Barcelona reach verbal agreement to sign 2007 born winger Josué Caicedo from LDU Quito, here we go!

Deal in place for Barcelona B team, loan with option to buy that could turn into obligation — fee around €2.5m.

Another Ecuadorian talent to Europe. 🇪🇨 pic.twitter.com/dI7cju62u1

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 19, 2026

The 19-year-old left-back is said to have caught the eye of Barcelona scouts during the last Under-20 Copa Libertadores.

He is known as a speedy full back who loves to attack and clearly has bags of potential. His versatility is also said to be a bonus as he can play higher up the pitch.

Barcelona are making a habit of snapping up young and exciting talent and Caicedo will join plenty of other prospects in Juliano Belletti’s side for next season.

Hamza Abdelkarim will be part of the squad, for instance, and there are high hopes for the Egyptian striker who is currently part of the Pharoahs’ squad at World Cup 2026.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Brazil 3-0 Haiti: Cunha double fires Brazil top and ends Haiti’s hopes – FIFA
The Manchester United forward scored a brace and Vinicius Jr added a third to set up a crucial showdown with Scotland in Miami.

De Jong a fitness doubt for Netherlands clash with Sweden – ESPN
Frenkie de Jong is a fitness doubt for the Netherlands’ Group F showdown with Sweden on Saturday, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman said.

Raphinha becomes a concern for the Brazil coaching staff – ESPN
At the 37-minute mark, shortly after Matheus Cunha’s second goal, the number 11 for the national team crouched down on the pitch and spoke with some players before the medical staff entered. Images showed Raphinha placing his hand on the back of his right thigh and looking dejected.

The Barça dressing room is supportive of Julián Álvarez – Mundo Deportivo
Barcelona players point to the Atlético Madrid striker as a good signing for the 2026-2027 project. Gavi, Olmo, Cubarsí, Araujo and Bernal share the same opinion: “He’s a spectacular striker.”

Salinas prioritizes Barça but the signing is not yet finalized – Mundo Deportivo
The defender’s entourage maintains that he would like to end up at the Catalan club but that he also has other attractive offers. Racing accept his departure as inevitable and want to get the maximum return for a highly sought-after player.

Iñaki Peña heading to the Greek League – Mundo Deportivo
Jijantes reported that the Barça goalkeeper is finalizing his transfer to Panathinaikos for 3 million euros, after MD reported his departure from the Spanish League.

Héctor Fort sets aside his proposals and wants to convince Flick – Mundo Deportivo
The academy graduate, who spent last season on loan at Elche, has attracted interest from Inter, Dortmund and Leverkusen, among others, but his goal is to use the preseason to secure a place at Barça.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Inaki Pena is reportedly on the brink of leaving Barcelona and is heading to Greece to sign for Panathinaikos.

The goalkeeper spent last season on loan at Elche and is now set to leave Barcelona permanently. The move has beeen accelerated as Pena was keen for his future to be resolved quickly, per Jijantes.

The 27-year-old is now set to join Greek side Panathinaikos for a fee of just less than €3 million.

Pena’s departure comes at a time when Barca are overbooked when it comes to goalkeepers. Joan Garcia is first choice with Wojciech Szczęsny set to continue as back-up next season.

Barcelona also have Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Diego Kochen, Ander Astralaga and Áron Yaakobishvili on the books and will need to make decisions on their futures this summer.

As for Pena, he could be the first of several exits from Barca before the start of the new season. Ansu Fati and Marc Casado are also expected to leave, while Ter Stegen has been linked with a move to Ajax.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

FC Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal has been tipped to start for the Spanish national team as they hope to get their FIFA World Cup campaign back on track following a disappointing draw against Cape Verde.

Yamal did not start that match as he was still recovering from an injury sustained playing for Barça. Spain dominated possession but were unable to score as goalkeeper Vozinha had a man-of-the-match performance for Cape Verde as the match ended 0-0.

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has now been asked if Yamal can play 45 minutes and offered up the following response.

“That’s a very good question, but we’ll have to assess it,” he told Cope

“Matches are often decided in the second half, so we’ll consider whether it’s more advantageous to push the pace a bit at the beginning or take advantage of the opponents’ fatigue and Lamine’s crucial final minutes. And that’s where we’ll make the decision.

“You have an initial plan, but many things, the circumstances of the game, lead you to other situations. Lamine isn’t ready for 90 minutes, but he’s available to play. We’re not risking anyone. His optimal performance is around an hour, but it could be 60 or 53. We’ll see. There are fifty thousand details in a match that make you change.”

Pedro Porro of Tottenham Hotspur is also expected to come in for Atlético de Madrid’s Marcos Llorente at right-back. Other changes could be in order, particularly in midfield. Gavi could also swap positions or be dropped as he started the first match out of position, playing as a winger.

One player not expected to leave the starting XI is Pau Cubarsí. The 19-year-old started the first match and, though he did not have too much defending to do, was considered by pundits to have done a good job in the center of defense.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has opened up on Marc Cucurella’s transfer to Real Madrid and criticism he’s received in a new interview while at World Cup 2026.

The Spain star a very clear idea of what kind of player he is. Known for his competitive spirt, tireless running, and prickly personality on the pitch, Gavi is known for being a thorn in the side of any team he’s up against. Equally, he’s known as a fan favorite for Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

Speaking to RAC1, he put it bluntly: “If you are on my team, you love me, if not, you will probably want to kill me.”

Gavi said it’s not something he thinks about these days as playing for the national team means going beyond club rivalries. It’s just as well because his teammate Marc Cucurella, who once played for Barcelona, will be playing for Real Madrid next season.

“We found out the day before, after training. We didn’t expect it and nobody knew, he kept it very quiet. Lamine is a bit annoyed, because now he will be the one to defend him in the classics,” he explained.

“I like him as a rival. He’s tough and intense. He’s a good signing for the Whites, I’m happy for him .”

Things are not rosy right now for the highly vaunted Spanish national team. Despite being hailed as one of the tournament favorites, they were held to a draw by the underdog Cape Verde.

Gavi said he expected the criticism after the 0-0 match.

“Since I made my debut I’ve been a player who has always received criticism, but I’ve never given up. I don’t like receiving it, but it’s something that motivates me more and more and I see it as normal in football, when you’re in the spotlight,” he said, vowing that Spain will improve in their upcoming matches.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

Barcelona star Fermin Lopez has sent out a positive message on social media as he continues his recovery from a fractured metatarsal that saw him miss out on World Cup 2026 with Spain.

The midfielder sustained the injury against Real Betis and was forced to undergo surgery. Lopez admitted at the time it was a tough blow to take but is now feeling more positive.

He’s posted a compilation of some great moments from last season on Instagram and added the words: “Don’t worry, I’ll be back soon.”

View this post on Instagram

Lopez is expected to miss a couple of months with his injury, with Barcelona confirming this week that their first pre-season match will take place against Birmingham City on July 31st.

Hansi Flick’s side are due to start pre-season training on July 13th and will then travel to England and be based at St George’s Park from 27 July to 3 August.

Source: barcablaugranes.com

World Cup 2026 is in full swing and the first round of matches is now officially complete. There’s been a total of 24 games played so far and 75 goals scored in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

This year’s tournament is the biggest ever edition of the World Cup and has seen hydration breaks implemented and new rules implemented.

There’s also been plenty of highlights already. Lionel Messi wowed fans across the world yet again with a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria, while Cristiano Ronaldo had a night to forget against DRC Congo.

Pre-tournament favorites Spain found it tough going against Cape Verde, being held to a shock goalless draw, although we did see the return from injury of Lamine Yamal.

Elswhere, the USMNT impressed in their opener against Paraguay, Germany smashed seven past Curacao, Sweden bashed Tunisia and there were also good wins for France and England.

So today’s Barca Blaugranes Question of the Day is:

Drop your spiciest hot take after the first round of World Cup 2026 matches

Now it’s over to you! Feel free to share your thoughts, predictions, opinions and answers in the comments section below!

Source: barcablaugranes.com