2026 World Cup (Q): Schedule for matchdays 9 and 10 in Africa

The Republic of Ireland squad is showing promising form at the club level, which bodes well as they prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Portugal and Armenia. With players performing strongly, this could boost their confidence and cohesion as a team, making them more competitive on the international stage.

Coventry City forward Brandon Thomas-Asante has been called up to represent Ghana in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers. This is an exciting opportunity for Thomas-Asante, showcasing his talent on an international stage and potentially contributing to Ghana's success in the tournament. His inclusion in the squad highlights his growing reputation in football and the importance of nurturing talent for national teams.

Rodri, a key player for the Spanish national team, is expected to miss the upcoming international break due to injury. This is a significant setback for Spain as they prepare for important matches in October, highlighting the challenges teams face when their star players are sidelined. Fans and coaches alike will be hoping for a swift recovery.

Italy's national football team is facing significant challenges ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Israel. With a depleted squad and injuries to key players, coach Gennaro Gattuso has limited options for selection. This situation not only puts Italy's chances of qualifying at risk but also raises concerns about the team's depth and resilience in high-stakes matches.

Chelsea fans are celebrating after their team secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Liverpool, and two legendary players have praised the impressive performance of a young Chelsea talent. This win not only boosts team morale but also highlights the potential of emerging players, making it an exciting time for the club as they look forward to the upcoming matches during the international break.

Russell Martin's tenure as head coach of Rangers has come to an end, marking a disappointing chapter in the club's history. Many fans and analysts viewed his appointment as underwhelming from the start, and his departure is seen as a necessary step for the team to move forward. With the international break providing a timely opportunity, Rangers now have the chance to find a new leader who can revitalize the squad and restore its competitive edge.

Manchester City continues to impress as they head into the international break unbeaten in their last seven matches, following a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Brentford. This win not only showcases their resilience but also solidifies their position in the Premier League, making them a team to watch as the season progresses.

Hamburger SV is looking to maintain momentum as they face 1. FSV Mainz, aiming for a three-game unbeaten streak before the international break. After a goalless draw against Union Berlin, HSV is eager to build on their recent victory over Heidenheim. This match is significant as it could boost their confidence and position in the Bundesliga.

Aston Villa is looking to secure back-to-back wins in the Premier League as they face newly promoted Burnley at Villa Park this Sunday. This match is significant as it could boost Villa's momentum heading into the international break, showcasing their potential to compete effectively in the league.

Excitement is building as the special jersey for the France national team for the 2026 World Cup has leaked online. This comes after France secured their qualification for the tournament, and fans are eager to see how their team will represent them on the global stage. The leaked images showcase a design that could become iconic, sparking discussions among supporters about its significance and style. As the World Cup approaches, this early glimpse into the team's attire adds to the anticipation surrounding the event.

At 41, Thiago Silva remains hopeful about representing Brazil in the 2026 World Cup, sending an inspiring message to coach Carlo Ancelotti. His determination highlights the passion and commitment athletes have towards their national teams, regardless of age. This sentiment resonates with fans and showcases the enduring spirit of football.

Real Madrid celebrated a strong 3-1 victory against Villarreal in their last match before the international break, reclaiming the top spot in the league. This win is significant as it boosts the team's morale and sets a positive tone heading into the break, with players like Carreras and Tchouameni expressing their determination to continue winning. Fans are excited about the team's performance and what lies ahead.

The Golden State Warriors kicked off their preseason with a solid 111-103 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, despite the absence of stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Al Horford made his debut, and while it's too early to draw major conclusions, the team's performance showcased a promising balance and fluidity. This game is significant as it sets the tone for the Warriors' season, highlighting their potential to compete effectively even without their key opponents.

Kylian Mbappé's recent injury during a match against Villarreal has raised concerns for the France national team, as confirmed by coach Didier Deschamps. This situation is significant because Mbappé is a key player, and his absence could impact the team's performance in upcoming matches.

The Detroit Tigers are set to start Casey Mize for Game 4 of the ALDS against the Mariners, marking his second postseason appearance. This is significant as Mize, a former Auburn standout, has the potential to lead the Tigers further in the playoffs, showcasing his talent on a big stage.

In a lighthearted moment during a recent NFL game, Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw a pass that ended up in the stands at Highmark Stadium. This amusing incident was made even more entertaining by the commentary of Mike Tirico, who brought his signature humor to the call. Such moments not only showcase the fun side of sports but also highlight the engaging personalities that make watching games enjoyable for fans.

Oklahoma's starting quarterback, John Mateer, is still expected to miss the highly anticipated Red River Shootout against Texas. This news is significant as it could impact Oklahoma's chances in this crucial rivalry game, where both teams are looking to assert their dominance in college football.

Steven Naismith expressed his sadness over the sacking of his former Scotland teammate Russell Martin from the Rangers head coach position. Following a disappointing start to the season, including a draw against Falkirk and two losses in the Europa League, Martin's dismissal highlights the pressures of football management. Naismith, now part of Scotland's coaching staff, acknowledges the harsh realities of the sport, emphasizing that such changes are part of the game.