England manager Thomas Tuchel says he is not angry with the players who have withdrawn from the squad before Tuesday’s friendly with Japan. Noni Madueke, Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, John Stones, and Adam Wharton have dropped out since Friday’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay. This is the final England camp before the deadline for naming World Cup squads on 30 May.
Cole Palmer is reportedly increasingly disillusioned with life at Chelsea. Manchester United, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are all interested in the England star, who is rated at £150m.
Irfan Can Kahveci said fireworks outside the Turkish team’s hotel motivated them ahead of their play-off match against Kosovo. He stated that the team aims to end their World Cup wait. Kahveci added that he is proud of the team, regardless of the result.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has stated that Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup and play their matches in the United States as scheduled. Uncertainty arose due to the US-Israel war with Iran, leading to discussions about relocating Iran’s matches. However, Infantino has confirmed Iran’s participation and adherence to the original match schedule.
Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori is available for Italy as they bid to end their World Cup exile. Italy face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final. Calafiori’s inclusion boosts Italy’s hopes after he proved his fitness in the semi-final against Northern Ireland.
England will play their final match at Wembley before the World Cup. Several key players, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, have pulled out through injury. Japan, who qualified for the World Cup on 20 March 2025, are tonight’s opponents.
Denmark will play Czechia in Tuesday‘s playoff final. Denmark made light work of North Macedonia, cruising to a 4–0 win. Czechia fought to the last to bypass the Republic of Ireland, having fallen 2–0 behind in the first half.
Southend United are set to play Yeovil Town after booking their place at Wembley by beating Southport 1-3 in the FA Trophy. Yeovil Town, however, are coming off a 2-1 loss against Gateshead. The upcoming match is Yeovil’s third away game in a row.
Italy will play Bosnia and Herzegovina away in the World Cup playoff final. The winner will secure a spot in Group B at this summer’s tournament. For some of Italy’s senior players, this is likely their last chance to play in a World Cup.
Jordan and Nigeria played a friendly match. Mousa Tamari scored for Jordan, assisted by Noor Al Rawabdeh. Moses Simon scored for Nigeria, resulting in a draw.
