Weekly sports quiz: Which nation qualified for their first World Cup?

Olivier Giroud, at 39, reflects on his illustrious career, revealing that Celtic and Middlesbrough once vied for his signature. This insight into his journey highlights the competitive nature of football transfers and the enduring appeal of seasoned players, showcasing how clubs seek experienced talent to bolster their squads.

Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter Milan, is setting ambitious goals for the 2026 World Cup as he aims to help Argentina defend their title. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of focusing on his club commitments first, showcasing his dedication to both his team and national pride. This determination not only highlights his personal aspirations but also reflects Argentina's strong football legacy, making fans excited about the upcoming tournament.

Patrick Kluivert has been dismissed as the head coach of the Indonesian national football team following their failure to qualify for the World Cup. This decision, reached by mutual agreement, highlights the challenges faced by the team and the high expectations surrounding their performance. Kluivert's departure marks a significant shift in Indonesia's football strategy as they seek to improve their standing in international competitions.

Patrick Kluivert has stepped down as head coach of Indonesia following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This decision comes just days after Indonesia's hopes were dashed by losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, marking a disappointing end to their campaign. Kluivert's departure is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by the Indonesian national team in their quest for World Cup participation, a goal they have pursued since gaining independence in 1945.

Patrick Kluivert has parted ways with the Indonesian national football team after their unsuccessful attempt to qualify for the World Cup. This decision, described as a mutual termination by the Football Association of Indonesia, marks a significant moment for the team as they seek new leadership and direction. Kluivert's departure highlights the challenges faced by national teams in achieving their goals on the global stage.

Thomas Tuchel has addressed the absence of Jude Bellingham from the latest England squad, emphasizing that the Real Madrid star is still a key player as the team aims for World Cup success. This news is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions around player selections and the impact of injuries or other factors on national team dynamics.

Harry Kane, the England captain, is determined to overcome the disappointment of missing a crucial penalty in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals against France. He believes that this experience has not only shaped him as a player but also fueled his motivation to lead England to future success. Kane's journey reflects resilience and growth, making him a key figure to watch as the team aims for glory in upcoming tournaments.

FIFA has stated that the safety and security of World Cup host cities is a decision for the government to make, avoiding a direct confrontation with President Donald Trump. This is significant as it highlights FIFA's position on governance and responsibility, emphasizing that local authorities play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of such a major international event.

Italy's recent decision to end Israel's chances in the World Cup highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the country's international participation in sports. This move comes after UEFA's indecisiveness regarding Israel's status, especially following a UN report labeling its actions in Gaza as genocide. The situation underscores the intersection of sports and politics, raising questions about how international bodies like UEFA handle such sensitive issues and the implications for athletes and fans alike.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, six nations are gearing up for a crucial playoff battle to secure the last two tickets to the tournament. This is a significant moment for these teams, as the World Cup represents the pinnacle of international football, and every match counts. Fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes, which will determine who gets to compete on the world stage, making this playoff an exciting event in the football calendar.

Olaf Lange, the former assistant coach of the New York Liberty, has been appointed as the head coach of the German women's national team. This is significant as Lange, a native of Berlin, will lead the team during the World Cup that Germany is set to host next year. His connection with Liberty players Leonie Fiebich and Nyara Sabally adds an exciting dynamic to the tournament, making it a moment to watch for fans.

Donald Trump has made headlines by suggesting he could relocate World Cup matches from U.S. cities he considers unsafe. This raises questions about his actual authority to make such changes and the implications for the tournament. Understanding the facts behind his claims is crucial, especially as the World Cup draws near and cities prepare to host this major event.

The Juventus Women's First Team is gearing up for an important away match against Bayern Munich in the 2025/26 UEFA Women's Champions League. This match is crucial as it continues their campaign in one of the most prestigious tournaments in women's football, showcasing the growing competitiveness and visibility of the sport.

Sheffield Wednesday is facing a serious financial challenge as reports indicate that the club could soon be served with a winding-up petition due to an outstanding debt of over £1 million owed to HMRC. This situation is critical as it not only threatens the club's operations but also raises concerns among fans and stakeholders about its future stability and viability in the competitive landscape of football.

The upcoming clash between No. 6 Alabama and No. 11 Tennessee, known as the 'Third Saturday in October,' is set to be an exciting matchup with significant implications for both the Southeastern Conference and the College Football Playoff. Alabama receiver Germie Bernard highlighted the importance of this rivalry, emphasizing that it's a key reason players come to Alabama. With both teams boasting potent offenses, fans can expect a thrilling game at Bryant-Denny Stadium that could shape the future of their seasons.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly set to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season, according to talkSPORT. This news is significant for fans and the club as it raises questions about the future direction of the team and who will take the helm after his departure.

Manchester United is reportedly prepared to invest £52 million to secure a world-class striker, highlighting their commitment to strengthening the team ahead of the upcoming transfer window. This move is significant as it reflects the club's ambition to compete at the highest level and address their current striker shortage, which has been a concern for fans and analysts alike.

Former West Ham footballer Said Benrahma has been fined after admitting to owning dangerously out-of-control dogs, specifically an XL bully breed. This incident raises concerns about dog ownership responsibilities and public safety, highlighting the need for stricter regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.