LIVE: Portugal vs Republic of Ireland – UEFA World Cup qualifier

Excitement is building as the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches kick off, featuring Portugal against the Republic of Ireland and Spain facing Georgia. These games are crucial for teams aiming to secure their spots in the prestigious tournament. With standout performances expected, including Norway's Erling Haaland scoring a hat-trick, fans are eager to see how these matches unfold and impact the teams' chances of qualification.

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.

Kylian Mbappé's recent injury is a setback for France as he leaves the squad after contributing to their 3-0 win over Azerbaijan. This means he won't be able to chase Olivier Giroud's national scoring record this October. Despite this, France is on track to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, leading their group significantly and could clinch their place with a win against Iceland on Monday. Mbappé's absence will be felt, but the team's strong position in the qualifiers remains a silver lining.

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.

In an exciting friendly match in Montreal, the Socceroos secured a thrilling 1-0 victory against Canada, thanks to teenage star Nestory Irankunda's impressive goal in the 71st minute. This win is significant as it showcases the emerging talent of Irankunda, who has now scored in consecutive matches, and highlights the strong performance of goalkeeper Paul Izzo, who kept a clean sheet. The match not only boosts the team's morale ahead of the 2026 World Cup but also emphasizes Australia's growing football prowess on the international stage.

Portugal is showing strong performance in the UEFA qualifiers for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, positioning themselves well for the tournament. Meanwhile, Ireland is still searching for their first win in the qualifiers. This matchup is crucial as it highlights the contrasting fortunes of both teams and sets the stage for an exciting competition ahead.

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.

Excitement is building as the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches kick off, featuring Portugal against the Republic of Ireland and Spain facing Georgia. These games are crucial for teams vying for a spot in the prestigious tournament, and fans are eager to see how their national teams perform. With standout players like Haaland already making headlines with a hat-trick for Norway, the stakes are high, and every goal counts. This is not just about football; it's about national pride and the chance to compete on the world stage.

In a reassuring move during the federal government shutdown, President Donald Trump announced that US military members will still receive their pay. He instructed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to ensure funds are released by October 15. This decision is significant as it highlights the administration's commitment to supporting the troops, even amidst political turmoil, ensuring that military personnel and their families are not left in financial uncertainty.

Over 500,000 Palestinians have returned to Gaza City following a ceasefire, facing significant destruction in their homeland. This return coincides with a visit from US special envoy Steve Witkoff, who was seen in Hostages Square alongside Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. The situation highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the complexities of international involvement in the region, making it a critical moment for both local residents and global observers.

The recent CIS summit marked a significant shift as Russia's regional alliance transitioned from a post-Soviet bureaucracy to a more dynamic entity in the multipolar world. This evolution is important because it signals a new era of cooperation and influence in the region, potentially reshaping geopolitical dynamics and fostering stronger ties among member states.

Tragically, after the devastating explosion at an explosives plant in Tennessee, officials have shifted their focus from rescue efforts to recovery, confirming that no survivors are expected to be found. This incident highlights the dangers associated with such facilities and the profound impact on the local community, as families and friends await news about their loved ones.

Diane Keaton, the beloved Oscar-winning actress known for her iconic roles in films like Annie Hall and The Godfather, has passed away at the age of 79 in California. Her collaborations with Woody Allen and performances in classics such as Reds and The First Wives Club have left an indelible mark on cinema. This loss resonates deeply with fans and the film industry alike, as Keaton's unique talent and charm have influenced generations of actors and filmmakers.