Portugal vs Ireland: World Cup qualifier – teams, start, lineups

France's recent victory over Azerbaijan in the World Cup qualifiers was overshadowed by the injury of star player Kylian Mbappe. While the 3-0 win brings them closer to qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, losing such a key player raises concerns about their chances in upcoming matches. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this impacts the team's performance moving forward.

Emma Doran, an Irish standup comedian, reflects on her journey into comedy, which began during her maternity leave. She candidly shares her struggles with traditional jobs and the creative void she felt before taking the leap into standup. Doran's story resonates as she discusses the challenges of navigating success and the pressures women face regarding societal expectations. Her insights not only highlight the importance of pursuing one's passion but also shed light on the often unspoken struggles behind the scenes in the comedy world.

The recent launch of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup has sparked frustration among fans, revealing a troubling trend in how emotions are monetized. With dynamic pricing and corporate jargon, many fans found themselves in long online queues only to face exorbitant prices for seats at MetLife Stadium. This situation highlights the growing disconnect between FIFA's promises of accessibility and the reality of ticket purchasing, raising concerns about the future of fan engagement in major sporting events.

In Albufeira, a popular resort city in southern Portugal, the local elections are drawing attention as the far-right party Chega aims to gain traction among voters. Billboards throughout the city showcase both the allure of its beaches and nightlife, as well as the party's promises. This election could serve as a pivotal moment for Chega, potentially allowing it to expand its influence beyond local politics. The outcome may reflect broader trends in Portuguese politics and the growing appeal of far-right ideologies in Europe.

Fifa is revisiting its regulations regarding the staging of domestic league games overseas for the first time since 2014. With La Liga and Serie A planning matches in Miami and Perth, Fifa is seeking legal advice on whether it can implement a ban on such practices. This review is significant as it could reshape how international matches are organized and ensure that local leagues maintain their integrity.

The campaign to nominate President Donald Trump for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize has gained momentum following the recent victory of Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado. This shift in focus highlights the ongoing discussions around Trump's potential contributions to peace efforts, especially in the context of international relations. As the world watches, this nomination could spark debates about the criteria for such prestigious awards and the impact of political figures on global peace.

Russia has launched an international essay contest titled 'Open Dialogue – 2026', inviting participants from around the globe to share their visions for the future. This initiative not only encourages creativity and critical thinking among young minds but also fosters international dialogue and understanding, making it a significant platform for cultural exchange.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is considering the possibility of moving World Cups and Club World Cups to winter months, citing concerns about the heat in Europe during July. This discussion is part of ongoing talks about the football calendar post-2030, reflecting the need for adaptability in scheduling major tournaments. This matters because it could significantly impact how fans experience these events and the logistics involved in hosting them.

FIFA's decision not to ban Israel from the World Cup 2026 qualifiers has sparked controversy, especially in light of the ongoing situation in Gaza. Critics argue that this reflects a troubling double standard, prioritizing political and economic interests over human rights. This decision matters because it raises questions about the integrity of sports organizations and their role in global political issues, potentially influencing public perception and international relations.

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first footballer to join the billionaire club, as reported by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion. This milestone is significant not only for Ronaldo but also for the sport, showcasing the immense financial opportunities available to top athletes. His recent $400 million deal with Saudi club Al-Nassr has undoubtedly contributed to this achievement, highlighting the growing influence of football in global markets.

The recent military parade in North Korea showcased the Hwasongpho-20 missile, which is notable for its size and potential capability to carry multiple nuclear warheads. This development raises significant concerns about regional security and the ongoing tensions surrounding North Korea's nuclear ambitions, as it signals advancements in their missile technology.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between England and Sri Lanka is underway, with players like Athapaththu leading the Sri Lankan team onto the field. Although the crowd at the venue appears sparse, it's noted that attendance tends to increase during the second innings in India. This match is significant as it showcases the growing popularity of women's cricket and the competitive spirit of the teams involved.

Newly released documents from the National Archives reveal that former Prime Minister Tony Blair met with Jeffrey Epstein in Downing Street in 2002, following a recommendation from Peter Mandelson. This meeting raises serious questions about the judgment of political leaders and their associations, especially given Epstein's later criminal activities. The revelation highlights the potential influence of powerful figures in politics and the implications of such connections on public trust.

In a stunning upset at the Shanghai Masters, world No. 204 Valentin Vacherot defeated the legendary Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-4, marking a historic moment as he became the lowest-ranked finalist in Masters 1000 history. This victory not only highlights Vacherot's incredible talent and determination but also adds an exciting twist to the tournament, showcasing that even the underdogs can achieve greatness on the big stage.

In a tragic escalation of violence in Sudan, activists report that nearly 60 people have been killed due to a drone strike by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeting a displacement shelter and university grounds in el-Fasher, a city already suffering from the ravages of war. This incident highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Darfur, where civilians are caught in the crossfire, and underscores the urgent need for international attention and intervention to protect vulnerable populations.

President Trump has indicated that there is a general agreement on the next steps for the Gaza ceasefire plan, highlighting that Hamas is currently gathering hostages as displaced Palestinians begin to return to northern Gaza. This development is significant as it reflects ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region and address humanitarian concerns, which are crucial for both local populations and international relations.