The players to watch out for, the games not to miss, how to expect the unexpected. Our writers gives their views on the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappé didn't hold back when answering who will score more goals between Messi and Ronaldo at the upcoming World Cup.

Two decades after the 2006 FIFA World Cup, only a handful of players remain active in professional football. Their remarkable longevity has turned them into living legends ahead of the 2026 tournament.

This year’s edition of the World Cup will be the biggest ever with an expanded field of 48 teams, three host countries and 16 stadiums staging the record 104 matches over the 39-day tournament.

World Cup 2026 Golden Boot odds: Kylian Mbappe up against Harry Kane, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi - The game’s greatest goalscorers line up for tournament’s top individual honour

Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history by beating Argentina in Qatar four years ago. That was just the start. In the four years since the Qatar World Cup perhaps no other nation has done more to shake up the world’s most popular sport.

The Golden Ball Award was introduced at the 1982 FIFA World Cup and has since been awarded to the standout performer of each tournament.

The FIFA World Cup will bring together football stars from across the globe, ranging from legends to emerging talents.