The 2026 World Cup is underway, featuring a variety of storylines ranging from high-stakes international competition to unique community sports. In the professional tournament, Japan has emerged as a notable contender. The team, which went unbeaten against European opposition at the last World Cup, is currently unbeaten in its past nine matches against European sides. Japan’s manager, Hajime Moriyasu, stated his goal is to lead the team to “World Cup glory,” while former captain Maya Yoshida noted that reaching the quarter-finals, a stage Japan has never experienced, is the primary goal. Other nations are also being identified as potential “dark horses” or outsiders. Former England striker Chris Sutton tipped Japan and Ecuador as picks to watch, while former Scotland international Rachel Corsie highlighted Turkey as a team that could exceed its world ranking of 18. Also, Mexico, Turkey, and South Korea have been identified as outsiders to watch over the next five weeks. In other results, Scotland secured a 1-0 victory over Haiti at the Boston Stadium, marking their first World Cup win in 36 years. The win was described as a “nerve-shredding” effort, with the goal scored by John McGinn. Meanwhile, the match between Qatar and Switzerland in Santa Clara saw thousands of empty seats at Levi’s Stadium. FIFA previously attributed empty seats during a different match to fans watching from the concourses. Separate from the main tournament, the Grannies International Football Tournament (GIFT) took place in Tzaneen, South Africa. The event, which requires players to be at least 50 years old, featured teams from seven countries, including the United States, France, Togo, and Zambia. The tournament was organized by Beka Ntsanwisi to help local women improve their health. The 2025 edition saw the United States defeat Togo 1-0, with Sue “Clip” Clippinger scoring the winning goal.