Weekly sports quiz: Which nation qualified for their first World Cup?

The 2026 men's football World Cup is off to an exciting start, with over a million tickets sold since pre-sales began in mid-September. This milestone reflects the global enthusiasm for the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With fans from 212 countries participating, this event promises to be a historic celebration of football, showcasing the sport's universal appeal and the collaborative spirit of North America.

Francesco Totti opens up about his past feud with Luciano Spalletti and reflects on the infamous incident with Mario Balotelli, which he admits had been building up for some time. Totti also boldly claims that winning the Scudetto with Roma holds more significance for him than Italy's World Cup victory. This insight into Totti's mindset not only highlights the passion and loyalty he feels for his club but also sparks discussions about the value of club versus national achievements in football.

England manager Thomas Tuchel is set to have discussions with midfielder Jude Bellingham regarding his potential selection for the upcoming World Cup. While Tuchel acknowledges the importance of these talks, he also emphasizes that there are no guarantees for Bellingham's inclusion in the squad. This situation is significant as it highlights the competitive nature of international football and the challenges players face in securing their spots on the national team.

As the Cricket World Cup progresses, England and India are vying for a spot in the semi-finals alongside Australia. The outcomes of their upcoming matches will be crucial in determining who advances. This is significant not only for the teams involved but also for fans who are eager to see how the tournament unfolds.

Alyssa Healy has once again showcased her incredible talent by scoring her second consecutive century, leading Australia to a commanding 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh. This win not only highlights Healy's prowess but also secures Australia's spot in the World Cup semi-finals, making it a significant moment for the team as they aim for the championship.

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has defended Italy's decision to play against Israel, expressing confusion over calls for a boycott. He questioned whether the team should be penalized by missing out on the World Cup due to political pressures. This stance highlights the ongoing debate about sports and politics, and the implications of boycotting events based on international relations.

The Seychelles national football team has had a rough week, suffering two crushing defeats in just four days, both ending in a staggering 7-0 scoreline against Gambia and Ivory Coast. This string of losses highlights the challenges faced by the team as they compete on the international stage, raising concerns about their performance and future in the World Cup qualifiers.

The A-League Men is set to kick off its 21st season, bringing excitement to Australian football as it coincides with a World Cup year. Despite ongoing concerns about broadcasting deals and salary caps, players are motivated to shine on the field. This season is particularly significant as it offers a chance for the league to showcase its talent and potentially attract more fans, which is crucial for the sport's growth in Australia.

Olivier Giroud, at 39, reflects on his illustrious career, revealing that Celtic and Middlesbrough once vied for his signature. This insight into his journey highlights the competitive nature of football transfers and the enduring appeal of seasoned players, showcasing how clubs seek experienced talent to bolster their squads.

Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter Milan, is setting ambitious goals for the 2026 World Cup as he aims to help Argentina defend their title. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of focusing on his club commitments first, showcasing his dedication to both his team and national pride. This determination not only highlights his personal aspirations but also reflects Argentina's strong football legacy, making fans excited about the upcoming tournament.

Patrick Kluivert has been dismissed as the head coach of the Indonesian national football team following their failure to qualify for the World Cup. This decision, reached by mutual agreement, highlights the challenges faced by the team and the high expectations surrounding their performance. Kluivert's departure marks a significant shift in Indonesia's football strategy as they seek to improve their standing in international competitions.

Patrick Kluivert has stepped down as head coach of Indonesia following the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This decision comes just days after Indonesia's hopes were dashed by losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, marking a disappointing end to their campaign. Kluivert's departure is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by the Indonesian national team in their quest for World Cup participation, a goal they have pursued since gaining independence in 1945.

Penn State football is now on the hunt for a new head coach after parting ways with James Franklin, who had a 12-season tenure. Curt Cignetti, the current head coach at Indiana, was considered a top candidate but has decided to remain with his team. This development leaves Penn State needing to explore other options for their coaching future, which is crucial for the program's direction and success.

The Indiana football team, under head coach Curt Cignetti, is making waves this season, building on their surprising success from last year when they reached the College Football Playoff. With a stronger roster and standout quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the team is poised for even greater achievements. This positive momentum not only highlights the team's growth but also raises expectations for their performance in the upcoming games.

The upcoming Thursday Night Football game features the Pittsburgh Steelers facing off against the Cincinnati Bengals on October 16, 2025. Fans can look forward to live streaming options and channel details to catch all the action. This matchup is significant as it falls in Week 7 of the NFL season, making it crucial for both teams as they vie for playoff positions.

In a recent preseason game, the Boston Celtics showcased their depth even with star Jayson Tatum sidelined. Derrick White stepped up, highlighting the team's resilience and ability to find scoring from various players, including the emerging talent of Xavier Tillman. This adaptability is crucial as the Celtics prepare for the upcoming season, proving they can rely on multiple players to deliver in high-pressure situations.

WR Zay Jones expressed optimism about the Arizona Cardinals, emphasizing the team's resilience and determination to bounce back. His positive outlook is significant as it reflects the team's spirit and commitment to improvement, which can inspire both players and fans alike.

In an exciting showdown, the world's top two tennis players, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, are set to face off in the final of an exhibition tournament in Saudi Arabia this Saturday. This match is significant not only for the players but also for fans, as it showcases the rising talent and fierce competition in the sport. With both athletes at the peak of their game, this encounter promises to be a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship.