World football's governing body is remaining cautious regarding the possibility of Iran pulling out of the World Cup.

Beyond results, Butler hopes the tournament becomes a platform for his players.

Ranked 112th in the world against China’s 17th, the gulf on paper was stark, yet it was not entirely reflected on the pitch.

Bangladesh had nearly stunned the favourites in the 14th minute when Ritu Porna Chakma’s trademark long-range strike was pushed away by the outstretched Chen Chen.

Bangladesh coach Peter Butler sprang a surprise by naming Mile Akter in goal ahead of long-serving No. 1 Rupna Chakma for their opening match of the AFC Women's Asian Cup against defending champions China in Sydney on Tuesday.

Myong Yu Jong bagged a first-half hat-trick as three-time champions North Korea marked their first Women's Asian Cup game since 2010 with a slick 3-0 win over Uzbekistan on Tuesday.

Making their debut at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, the women in red and green face defending champions China at the 30,000-capacity Western Sydney Stadium in Australia.

Liam Rosenior on Monday demanded an improvement in discipline from his Chelsea players after Pedro Neto became their ninth player to be sent off this season, threatening to drop players who do not show greater control.

Real Madrid fell to a damaging 1-0 defeat by Getafe at home in La Liga on Monday, leaving them four points behind leaders Barcelona.

France captain Kylian Mbappe was in Paris Monday for treatment on a knee injury but no surgery is planned, the Real Madrid superstar's entourage told AFP.

Today, the FIFA World Cup is more than a sporting contest. It is emotion, identity and a global celebration that grips billions. Yet the story of its birth is one of doubt, resistance and an unyielding dream that refused to fade.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick insisted Monday his team could turn around a 4-0 deficit in the Copa del Rey semi-final tie against Atletico Madrid.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot said Monday that the growing reliance on set pieces in the Premier League has sucked some of the joy out of football but accepts it is the new reality.

The Koreans, runners-up to China in the 2022 edition, totally dominated a brave but outclassed Iran, who showed no signs of being affected by the war raging at home, while some supporters waved shah-era flags.

On Tuesday in Sydney, Bangladesh open their campaign against nine-time champions China, marking their first appearance at the continental showpiece and the country’s first participation in Asia’s premier competition since 1980.

The contest between European Championship winners Spain and Copa America champions Argentina was scheduled for March 27 at Doha's Lusail Stadium, with potential big-name draws including Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi.

Argentina's Prestianni was accused of racially abusing Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior during a Champions League game last month, while covering his mouth with his shirt.

Reigning MLS champions Miami, beaten in their season-opener last week, looked to be heading for another defeat after dominant Orlando raced into a 2-0 first-half lead in front of their home fans.

Arsenal won their set-piece battle with 10-man Chelsea as Jurrien Timber sealed the Premier League leaders' crucial 2-1 victory over their London rivals on Sunday.

Benfica coach Jose Mourinho said Sunday that if midfielder Gianluca Prestianni is found guilty of racism, his career under the Portuguese will be "over".