The Spaniard has plenty of experience of winning the Champions League, doing so twice with Barcelona before delivering Manchester City their maiden title in the competition.

Across his time with City, Barca and Bayern Munich, Guardiola has won 61.3% of his 191 Champions League games (W117 D39 L35), seeing his teams score 444 goals in those matches.

Only Carlo Ancelotti (123) has won more games in the competition than Guardiola, who has managed the third-most games.

Barca have won back-to-back LaLiga titles under Hansi Flick, but the Blaugrana are yet to reach the Champions League showpiece under the German coach.

Guardiola, however, claimed chasing a Champions League title could derail the club's current plans.

"The Champions League is a competition that destroys projects, and I hope that’s not the case at Barca," said the former City boss.

It’s been 11 years since this beautiful moment  pic.twitter.com/Pnu5miDvxF

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) June 6, 2026

"We must not think that just because you don’t win it, everything that has been built is no good.

"The league is the competition that gives you consistency and continuity. In the Champions League, you need to reach the decisive stages in good condition, without injuries, and refereeing also has a huge impact.

"What matters is that the daily work is excellent, that the team keeps growing and improving, and that they don’t believe the season is a failure just because they don't reach the Champions League final or win it.

"The league is what sets the foundation for judging whether a season has been good or not."

The post Guardiola: League performance defines success, not Champions League appeared first on SoccerNews.

The Red Devils enjoyed a dominant first half, though they only led 1-0 at the break, with Leandro Trossard getting the goal in the 28th minute.

However, after Charles De Ketelaere added their second and Ismael Gharbi was sent off, the floodgates opened.

Kevin De Bruyne, Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin all got on the scoresheet, and Belgium finished the match with 27 shots on goal worth 4.1 expected goals (xG), with 12 shots on target.

At the other end, Tunisia only accumulated 0.3 xG from seven shots, getting only one on target, though they did also hit the woodwork.

Garcia switched back to a four-man defence, having seen a successful trial with three at the back during their 2-0 win over Croatia, and he sees lessons to be learned from how they played against Tunisia.

"It is a wake-up call. It is sometimes good for a coach to be able to emphasise that the players must always be focused, always go to the limit," Garcia said.

"I told them that I was not satisfied and that they needed to pull themselves together.

The perfect send-off ahead of the World Cup. pic.twitter.com/f7b3bPmozD

— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) June 7, 2026

"Between minutes 55 and 60, we lost the ball. It was just like in training. We defended with six, not eleven.

"It should be the other way around. We even almost let Tunisia get back into the match. Afterwards, we recovered.

"We won't win 5-0 every time at the World Cup. Don't forget that we also played against ten men for a long time.

"But okay, we have gained confidence, and everyone has been able to get some minutes. Morale is pretty much at maximum. And I think we can do even better."

Belgium will not travel to Seattle on Monday, with their Group G opener against Belgium taking place on June 15. They also face Iran and New Zealand in their other group-stage fixtures.

The post Garcia warns Belgium against complaceny despite 5-0 friendly win appeared first on SoccerNews.

Peru will look to build on their recent win over Haiti, while Spain arrives in Mexico as one of the major favourites for the tournament and will want to sharpen their rhythm before facing Cape Verde in their World Cup opener.

Verdict: Over 2.5 goals
Best odds: 1/2
Bookmaker: 1xBet

Peru

Peru is entering this clash in a good mood, after a 2-1 win over Haiti. This result gives Mano Menezes and his squad some encouragement before facing one of the strongest teams in international football, although taking on Spain is a completely different challenge compared to playing against Haiti. Peru actually fought really hard, and came from behind in that match, with Renzo Garces and Jairo Velez scoring late goals to complete the turnaround.

Peru has not been consistent enough over the past year, but they have shown signs of improvement under Menezes, and a game against Spain gives them a chance to measure their progress against elite opposition. They failed to qualify for the World Cup, but the game against Spain at this moment shows their determination to safely qualify for the next big tournament.

The main challenge will be defensive concentration. Spain is excellent at controlling possession, moving opponents across the pitch and waiting for spaces to appear. Peru will probably spend long periods without the ball, which means their midfield and back line will need to stay compact and avoid leaving gaps between the lines.

Still, we should be careful in writing off Peru completely. They have scored in six of their last seven matches, and the likes of Jairo Velez, Kenji Cabrera, Andre Carrillo and Jhonny Vidales give them enough attacking options to threaten if Spain make mistakes or rotate heavily during the second half.

Peru Team News

Peru will be without Joao Grimaldo and Alex Valera for this friendly. Grimaldo is unavailable, while Valera is recovering from a ligament injury.

In their absence, Jhonny Vidales will probably be a central attacking option. Jairo Velez and Kenji Cabrera are also candidates to start in wide areas, as regular players in Peru’s recent attacking setup.

Pedro Gallese should remain one of the key figures in goal, while Renzo Garces comes into the match with confidence after scoring against Haiti. Marcos Lopez, Oliver Sonne and Miguel Araujo are among the defensive options available to Menezes.

In midfield, Peru can lean on experience through Andre Carrillo and Yoshimar Yotun, while Sergio Pena and Jesus Castillo give them more options in central areas. Against Spain, the midfield battle will probably decide how long Peru can stay competitive.

Spain

Spain arrives in Puebla as one of the strongest teams heading into the 2026 World Cup. Luis de la Fuente’s side has built a long unbeaten run, and even though their recent friendlies against Egypt and Iraq ended in draws, La Roja remain one of the most complete squads in the tournament.

The 1-1 draw against Iraq was not the result Spain wanted, but it also came in a preparation context where minutes and fitness management were always going to matter. With the World Cup opener against Cape Verde coming soon, De la Fuente is expected to rotate and save key players for the knockout phase of this long tournament.

Spain’s technical level should still give them a clear advantage here. Even if some key players miss this match, they have enough quality through Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, Alex Baena, Gavi, Mikel Merino, Alejandro Grimaldo and Borja Iglesias to control possession and create chances.

However, since their last two matches ended in a draw, against opponents of similar strength as Peru, Spain might play more aggressively in this match, and try to win by a big margin, in order to face their first World Cup opponent in a good mood.

Spain Team News

Lamine Yamal will miss out as he continues to work his way back from a hamstring issue, while Nico Williams is also unlikely to play.

Luis de la Fuente rested several important players against Iraq, including Pedri, Rodri and Mikel Oyarzabal. Spain could again manage minutes carefully, but some of their leading names may still be used to build match rhythm before the World Cup opener.

Spain’s goalkeeping options include Leo Roman, Joan Garcia and Unai Simon. In defence, De la Fuente can call on Marc Pubill, Alejandro Grimaldo, Eric Garcia, Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte, Jon Martin, Sergio Gomez, Javi Rodriguez and Pau Cubarsi.

The midfield group includes Marcos Llorente, Mikel Merino, Gavi, Alex Baena, Marc Bernal, Javi Guerra and Benat Turrientes. Further forward, Ferran Torres, Gonzalo, Dani Olmo, Yeremy Pino, Jesus Rodriguez and Borja Iglesias are all listed among the attacking options.

Peru vs Spain Key Factors to Consider

• Peru came from behind to beat Haiti 2-1 in their previous friendly, with Renzo Garces and Jairo Velez scoring late goals.
• Spain drew 1-1 with Iraq in their last warm-up match and will want a sharper attacking display before the World Cup.
• Spain are unbeaten since their penalty shootout defeat to Portugal in the Nations League final in June 2025.
• Peru has scored in six of their last seven matches, despite missing out on the World Cup.
• Spain has won both previous friendly meetings with Peru, with 2-1 victories in 2004 and 2008.

Conclusion

Peru should be motivated after their comeback win over Haiti, but this is a major step up in quality. Mano Menezes’ side has enough attacking energy to make the game competitive in moments, though they will need to defend with much more discipline than they have shown in some recent matches.

Spain is the stronger side in every department. They have more depth, more control in midfield and far more attacking quality, even if De la Fuente decides to rotate or manage minutes carefully before the World Cup.

This looks like a match where Spain should create plenty of chances, while Peru may still have enough to contribute at least one dangerous spell going forward. With Spain looking for a more convincing final tune-up, and Peru capable of leaving spaces as the game opens up, over 2.5 goals looks like the best angle.

Verdict: Over 2.5 goals
Best odds: 1/2
Bookmaker: 1xBet

The post Prediction: Peru vs Spain appeared first on SoccerNews.

The 27-year-old was hoping to win back-to-back World Cups with France after their success in 2018, but they lost on penalties to Argentina in the Qatar showpiece.

Mbappe scored a hat-trick in the final and scored his penalty in the shoot-out, but it was still not enough to get France over the line.

The only other player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final is Geoff Hurst, who did so for England against West Germany in 1966.

The 2022 final ended 3-3 before Argentina won on penalties, and Mbappe believes it is the greatest final in the competition's history.

"The greatest final of all time? I think nothing matches it in terms of entertainment, the clash, the match scenario, with so many twists and turns," Mbappe told Sorare.

 pic.twitter.com/PynOGAJvNp

— Equipe de France  (@equipedefrance) June 6, 2026

"It ended with penalties, the most brutal way for anyone.

"It was either Lionel Messi’s first World Cup win or a back-to-back for France, so it was historic no matter what.  

"Have I watched the match again since? Never! I think if I do, it might awaken some demons."

Mbappe has scored more goals (12) and recorded more direct goal involvements (14) than any other player across the previous two World Cups.

France will be hoping to regain their world title this summer, with their campaign kicking off against Senegal on June 16, before also facing Iraq and Norway in Group I.

Since 1998, France have reached the World Cup final in four of the seven editions (1998, 2006, 2018, 2022), at least twice more than any other nation during that period.

They will also attempt to become only the third team to reach the final in three consecutive editions after West Germany (1982, 1986, 1990) and Brazil (1994, 1998, 2002).

The post Mbappe will never rewatch 2022 World Cup final appeared first on SoccerNews.

Germany won 2-1 at Soldier Field with goals from Havertz and Leroy Sane coming either side of a stunning volley from Antonee Robinson.

Havertz also assisted Sane's winner, which marked Germany's ninth consecutive win as Julian Nagelsmann's side head into the World Cup in stellar form.

Although admitting it was not a perfect performance against co-hosts USA on Saturday, Havertz believes there is plenty of reason for Germany to be optimistic.

"I think we played a good game overall and that we were better in the second half," Havertz told RTL after the game.

letzter Test #fifaworldcup #dfbteam  DFB/Max Galys pic.twitter.com/rz5QlTZe6c

— DFB-Team (@DFB_Team) June 6, 2026

"With the ninth win in a row, we’re now going into the first group game with a lot of confidence.

"Of course, there were phases where we lost a bit of control, but overall, we are in good shape and can look forward positively."

Germany begin their World Cup campaign against Curacao on June 14, and Nagelsmann confirmed Manuel Neuer would be fit to start between the sticks.

Oliver Baumann, who started against the USA and in all six of Germany's World Cup qualifiers, admitted it was difficult to hear he would not be the first choice this summer.

"It was tough at first. It wasn't exactly cool," Baumann told RTL.

"It was immediately clear to me that I would put myself at the service of the team. This is a World Cup – I want to help the team and make my contribution. Everything else is secondary."

The post Havertz: Germany going into World Cup with a lot of confidence appeared first on SoccerNews.

Over the past few months, the hierarchy at West Ham has been dramatically reshaped. The club currently operates without a permanent chief executive or director of football, while the recent exits of key boardroom figures have deepened the sense of uncertainty. Baroness Karren Brady stepped down from her role as vice-chairwoman in April, and shortly afterwards, co-chairman David Sullivan announced his resignation. Sullivan, who had been a central figure in running the club since acquiring a controlling stake in 2010 alongside the late David Gold, cited impending allegations—which he strongly denies—as the reason for his departure.

Despite stepping aside from his executive position, Sullivan remains the club’s largest shareholder, holding just under 40 percent of West Ham. For more than a decade, he played a decisive role in shaping the club’s direction, particularly when it came to recruitment strategies and managerial appointments. His influence was often a focal point of criticism from supporters, especially as performance levels dipped in recent seasons.

Fan dissatisfaction has been growing for some time, and the team’s relegation only intensified frustrations. Supporters have staged protests, organized marches, and even called for a formal vote of no confidence in the leadership. Much of the anger has been directed at what they see as inadequate planning, particularly in areas such as scouting, recruitment, and infrastructure. On matchdays, tensions reached such levels that security concerns became a factor—for example, Sullivan was advised to leave the stadium early following the confirmation of relegation to avoid potential confrontations.

This unrest is not without precedent. In recent years, there have been incidents involving supporters making their grievances known in dramatic fashion, including pitch invasions and direct confrontations near the executive areas of the stadium. These episodes underline the depth of feeling among fans, many of whom believe the club has underperformed relative to its potential.

While some supporters may welcome the recent departures at board level, the reality is that the club now faces an urgent need for leadership and direction. A board meeting is expected to address the current situation, but as it stands, it remains unclear who will take responsibility for making the key decisions that lie ahead. The absence of a clear hierarchy could not come at a worse time, given the scale of the challenges West Ham must tackle.

Adding to the uncertainty is the ongoing turnover in the club’s executive ranks. Alongside Brady’s exit, other senior figures have also moved on or are set to do so. Nathan Thompson has left his role as executive director, and financial director Andy Mollett is preparing to retire. None of these positions have yet been permanently filled, leaving gaps in the structure that need to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

In the meantime, Karim Virani has been serving as interim chief executive, overseeing day-to-day operations. Sullivan’s sons, Jack and David Jr., continue to be listed as directors, with Jack becoming increasingly involved in negotiations with agents. However, their long-term roles remain uncertain, particularly in light of the broader changes at the club.

Financial considerations are another pressing concern. West Ham may be forced to sell players in the short term to ensure compliance with financial regulations. Under Premier League rules, clubs are restricted in the level of losses they can incur over a defined period. While the club has some leeway based on recent financial results, there is little doubt that significant adjustments will be necessary, especially following relegation.

The shift to the Championship introduces a different regulatory framework, one that focuses more directly on the relationship between revenue and spending on the playing squad. This will require careful planning, as West Ham attempt to balance competitiveness with financial sustainability.

As part of this restructuring, a number of key players could depart. Individuals such as Mateus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen are likely to attract strong interest and command substantial transfer fees. Several other members of the squad may also be moved on, either to reduce wage commitments or to reshape the team for the demands of the second tier. The turnover could be significant, with potentially close to an entire starting lineup being reconsidered.

Given the scale of this overhaul, the appointment of a director of football is seen as a priority. This role will be central to coordinating recruitment, scouting, and overall squad strategy. The head coach, Nuno Espírito Santo, has reportedly been involved in the recruitment process for this position, highlighting its importance to the club’s future plans. Strengthening the scouting and analytics departments will also be crucial, particularly after the departure of key personnel in those areas.

Beyond the immediate operational challenges lies a broader question about ownership. Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský currently holds a substantial minority stake and could increase his involvement in the coming months. There had been plans for him and Sullivan to consolidate their positions as joint leading shareholders, but Sullivan’s resignation may alter the dynamics significantly. Křetínský could seek greater influence or even a controlling share, depending on how negotiations unfold.

West Ham, therefore, find themselves at a crossroads. The club must rebuild its squad, stabilize its leadership, and restore a sense of direction—all while preparing for the challenges of life in the Championship. Achieving promotion at the first attempt will be the primary objective, but doing so will require decisive action and clear planning.

In many ways, this summer represents more than just a period of transition. It is an opportunity for West Ham to reset, to address long-standing issues, and to lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and successful future. Whether the club can seize that opportunity will depend largely on the decisions made in the weeks ahead—and on who ultimately takes charge of making them.

The post West Ham at Crossroads: Relegated, Brady and Sullivan Gone appeared first on SoccerNews.

Pinpoint from Granit Xhaka to set up Switzerland’s opening goal

The Sunderland midfielder finds Dan Ndoye with a perfect pass, as the forward makes no mistake from close range

Watch #SUIvAUS live and exclusive on Paramount+ pic.twitter.com/Fyt3Yp9QhU

— Paramount+ Australia (@ParamountPlusAU) June 6, 2026

The post Sublime Granit Xhaka pass sets up Dan Ndoye for Switzerland opener against Australia (Video) appeared first on SoccerNews.

With all eyes now fixed on North America for the 2026 World Cup, there are plenty of intriguing betting promotions and bonuses available.

Verdict: Netherlands win & under 4.5 goals

Best Odds: 4/5

Bookmaker: BetUS

Netherlands

Starring with the Netherlands, while the Netherlands might have received a string of plaudits after their sensational World Cup qualifying romp last year, Ronald Koeman’s superstar squad are searching for an immediate response here. Getting the final stint of their summer preparations underway with a concerning performance on home soil as they were hit with a toothless 1-0 loss at the hands of Algeria, Holland know the importance of immediately dusting themselves down when they arrive in New York on Monday night. Officially getting their World Cup group stage adventure underway on June 14th when they meet Japan, it is no secret that the Netherlands are almost universally regarded as the standout contender in Group F. Suffering just a first defeat since back in October 2024 just a few days ago, Holland will be desperate to prove their downbeat display in Rotterdam was nothing more than a minor blip.

Netherlands Team News

Making a timely return from a muscle injury last month, the record-breaking Memphis Depay has been included in Koeman’s squad and could be handed a full recall in New York on Monday night. Making his senior international debut against Algeria a few days ago, West Ham winder Crysencio Summerville should get some more minutes under his belt.

Given what has been a speedy trip to North America, Koeman is expected to make a string of alterations here. Despite extensive speculation over his future with Premier League giants Manchester City, Nathan Ake should earn a 60th international cap.

Uzbekistan

As for Uzbekistan, set to make their first ever appearance on the World Cup stage this month, Fabio Cannavaro’s men have already shattered a string of long-standings records and they have rightfully cemented their spot as one of world football’s ultimate surprise packages over the past couple of years. Eventually breezing their way to North America and enjoying their own sensational qualifying romp, the Whites Wolves find the mood in their camp at a red-hot high. However, much like the Dutch, Uzbekistan are also searching for their own immediate response when they arrive in New York on Monday night. Getting the final stint of their pre-World Cup preparations underway with a 2-0 defeat against fellow finalists Canada last week, the former Italy skipper is more than aware that his squad faces another heavyweight examination here.

Uzbekistan Team News

In what was a major blow for Uzbekistan, Al Bataeh midfielder Azizjon Ganiev was taken off after just 23 minutes against Canada last week with a knee injury and the 18-cap international will certainly not play any part in New York.

Enjoying a dominant loan campaign with Turkish outfit Basaksehir and notching 22 goals among Turkey’s elite, Roma striker Eldor Shomurodov will lead Uzbekistan out on Monday and play a leading role in attack. Really starting to find his feet with Premier League giants Man City, Abdukodir Khusanov will start at the heart of Cannavaro’s defence.

Netherlands vs Uzbekistan Key Factors to Consider

• Monday’s showdown in New York will be the first meeting between the Netherlands and Uzbekistan.
• Holland’s downbeat 1-0 loss at home against Algeria last week was the first defeat Koeman’s side have suffered since back in October 2024.
• Uzbekistan’s 2-0 loss against Canada last week is just the second defeat the White Wolves have suffered from their last 19 outings across all fronts.
• The White Wolves have registered just a sole clean sheets from any of their previous five matchups across all competitions.
• Holland have notched just a single strike in almost 220 minutes of acton.

Conclusion

Two camps who will make their final pre-World Cup appearances on Monday night, both the Netherlands and Uzbekistan will be desperately searching for their own immediate response in New York. Falling to a toothless 1-0 loss at home against Algeria last week and suffering a first defeat across any format since way back in October 2024, Holland will know the importance of laying down an early summer marker here. Although the European icons might be searching for a crucial clinical edge in the final third, we are backing Koeman’s side to claim some welcomed momentum.

Verdict: Netherlands win & Under 4.5 goals

Best Odds: 4/5

Bookmaker: BetUS

The post Prediction: Netherlands vs Uzbekistan appeared first on SoccerNews.

Speaking to the press after the match, the Bayern Munich star said that it’s important to be on the scoresheet as a striker, and provided some perspective on games like this one.

“As a striker, I wanna be on the scoresheet”

Harry Kane reflects on scoring as England beat New Zealand 1-0 in their pre-World Cup friendly. pic.twitter.com/HGN0mKo7yd

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) June 7, 2026

The post “I want to be on the scoresheet as much as possible” – England captain Harry Kane after scoring against New Zealand (Video) appeared first on SoccerNews.

Silva’s vast quality and winning mentality have been documented many times during his nine-year stay at the Etihad, with 460 appearances in all competitions, 76 goals and 77 assists to his name. He was one of the most important players for City under Pep Guardiola, helping them win six Premier League titles, three FA Cups, five League Cups, three Community Shields, the Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Silva’s agent Jorge Mendes is said to be searching for a new club for the 108-cap Portugal international. Real had previously decided against going for him, but Mourinho’s wish to have him in his ranks will likely change their stance.

The post Mourinho wants Bernardo Silva at Real Madrid appeared first on SoccerNews.