European (UEFA) 2026 World Cup qualifying schedule, dates, results, format

UEFA's recent decision to allow league games abroad marks a significant shift in the football landscape. While they describe this as a 'reluctant' agreement to two exceptional requests, it opens the door for potential changes that could reshape the sport. This move is important because it signals a willingness to adapt and innovate, potentially attracting new audiences and revenue streams, even as UEFA insists it won't set a precedent.

UEFA has approved the hosting of La Liga and Serie A matches in the US and Australia, despite fan protests. This decision, made by the UEFA Executive Committee, highlights the growing trend of taking European football to international markets, which could enhance the sport's global appeal but also raises concerns about the impact on local fans.

Exciting news for football fans as UEFA has approved the Serie A match between AC Milan and Como to be held in Australia this February. This event marks a significant opportunity for local fans in Perth to experience top-tier football live, showcasing the growing global reach of the sport. With preparations underway, fans are eager to secure their tickets and witness this thrilling encounter, which not only highlights the popularity of Serie A but also strengthens the connection between international clubs and Australian supporters.

AC Milan and Como are currently waiting for final approval from FIFA to confirm their match in Australia. While UEFA has already given the green light for this fixture to take place in Perth, the scheduling is still uncertain. This match is significant as it represents an opportunity for Italian football to expand its reach and engage with fans in Australia, highlighting the growing global interest in Serie A.

Uefa has confirmed that LaLiga and Serie A matches can be played abroad, specifically mentioning a Barcelona match in Miami and an AC Milan game in Australia. However, they clarified that this decision will not set a precedent for future matches. This ruling is significant as it opens the door for international exposure of European football, potentially increasing fan engagement and revenue, but it also raises questions about the implications for local fans and the integrity of domestic leagues.

Uefa has reluctantly approved Serie A and La Liga to host domestic games abroad this season, allowing Barcelona to face Villarreal in Miami and Milan to play Como in Perth. While this decision opens new opportunities for clubs to engage with international fans, Uefa has emphasized that it does not want this to set a precedent for future matches. This move highlights the growing trend of football clubs seeking to expand their global reach and connect with supporters worldwide.

Real Betis has emerged as a standout team in Europe's top leagues, having lost the fewest games since March. This impressive statistic showcases their strong performance and resilience on the field, making them a team to watch as they continue to build momentum in La Liga. Their recent victories not only boost their standings but also highlight the competitive nature of Spanish football, drawing attention from fans and analysts alike.

The CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifying tournament is shaping up nicely, with reigning champions Argentina securing their spot alongside five other teams with one matchday left. This is exciting news for fans as it highlights the competitive spirit and talent in South American football, setting the stage for an exhilarating World Cup.

The excitement is building as the October international break begins, bringing national teams together for the final two matchdays of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Africa. This is a crucial moment for teams vying for a spot in the prestigious tournament, and fans are eager to see how their countries perform. The outcomes of these matches will significantly impact the teams' chances of qualifying, making this an important event in the football calendar.

This weekend's UEFA 'Top 5' leagues showcased some incredible performances, and Playmaker has compiled the key statistics for fans. From the most skillful passers to the toughest defenders, these standout players not only entertained but also significantly impacted their teams' successes. Understanding these statistics helps fans appreciate the game on a deeper level and highlights the talent present in European football.

Aston Villa's recent 2-0 victory over Feyenoord highlights the team's growing strength in European competitions. Coach Unai Emery has emphasized the importance of a 30-year-old player in the dressing room, showcasing how vital leadership and experience are for the squad's success. This win not only boosts the team's confidence but also solidifies their position in Europe, making it a significant moment for both the players and fans.

Manchester United is facing significant challenges, as highlighted by the recent comments from Ratcliffe regarding Amorim's potential timeframe. The club's ongoing struggles, even off the pitch, reflect a deeper dysfunction at Old Trafford, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike. This situation is crucial as it not only affects the team's performance but also impacts the club's reputation and future prospects.

The MLB playoffs have seen a remarkable surge in viewership, with ESPN reporting a 64% increase in audience for the final wild card round compared to last year. This significant growth highlights the rising popularity of baseball and the excitement surrounding the playoffs. As NBC prepares to take over the wild card round next season, fans are eager to see how this change will impact the viewing experience and the overall engagement with the sport.

Ohio State has made a strong comeback, reclaiming the top position in the Big Ten Power Rankings by FOX Sports, as highlighted by Michael Cohen. This shift is significant as it reflects Ohio State's dominance in college football, while Penn State's recent struggles have caused them to drop in the rankings. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these changes will impact the upcoming games and the overall landscape of the conference.

Connor McDavid has signed a two-year contract extension with the Edmonton Oilers, ensuring he remains with the team as they head into the NHL regular season. This deal, valued at an average of $12.5 million per year, is significant not just for McDavid but also for the Oilers, as it solidifies their star player's commitment and boosts their chances for success in the upcoming season.

Kansas football faces a tough blow as standout tight end DeShawn Hanika will miss the remainder of the season following surgery. Coach Lance Leipold confirmed the news, highlighting the impact of this loss on the team's performance. Hanika's absence will be felt on the field, making it crucial for the team to adapt and find new strategies to maintain their competitive edge.

A quarterback who has committed to Alabama for the 2026 season has reportedly decided to shut down his recruitment process. This decision is significant as it indicates his commitment to the program and may influence future recruiting efforts for Alabama.

Liverpool has confirmed yet another injury, adding to their woes following a recent 2-1 defeat to Chelsea. This ongoing injury crisis is concerning for the team as they struggle to maintain their performance in the Premier League. Fans are worried about how these injuries will affect their chances in upcoming matches.