Colombia Reveals Squad for 2026 World Cup with Familiar Faces and New Talents

Ricardo Pepi Shines in First World Cup Start as U.S. Defeats Australia

El Paso native Ricardo Pepi made his first start for the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team during the FIFA World Cup, contributing to a 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle. This match marked Pepi's second appearance in the tournament, stepping in for injured star Christian Pulisic. Both goals for the U.S. were scored in the first half, securing their advancement to the knockout stage of 32 teams. The U.S. will play Turkey next on Thursday, aiming to finish strong in group play.

Ecuador Faces Curacao in Crucial World Cup Match for Group E

Ecuador is gearing up for a must-win match against Curacao in the 2026 World Cup after a disappointing loss to Ivory Coast. With only 20 goals in 21 matches under coach Sebastián Beccacece, the team is under pressure to improve its offensive performance. The new World Cup format allows some third-placed teams to advance, making it critical for Ecuador to score as many goals as possible against Curacao, who recently suffered a heavy defeat to Germany. The match is set for 7 p.m. in Quito, and viewers can catch it on various networks including Univision and TUDN.

USMNT Manager Pochettino Urges Fans to Rally Behind Team Ahead of Key Match

As the US Men's National Team (USMNT) prepares for their second World Cup match against Australia, manager Mauricio Pochettino emphasizes the importance of national belief in the team. Despite initial skepticism about his appointment and the team's past struggles, Pochettino has fostered a renewed sense of unity and purpose among players. The match is set for 3 p.m. ET at Lumen Field in Seattle, where a victory would secure the US's place in the Round of 32. Star player Christian Pulisic's fitness remains a concern after a minor injury, but the team is optimistic about continuing their strong performance from the first game.

Test Your Knowledge of the World Cup with This Fun Quiz

The highly anticipated World Cup is set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking a significant moment in sports history. To celebrate this event, CNN has created an engaging quiz designed to challenge your understanding of the tournament's history and facts. This quiz offers an opportunity for fans and newcomers alike to learn more about the world's largest sporting event. Participation is encouraged as the World Cup approaches, making it a perfect time to brush up on your knowledge.