FIFA World Cup 2026 discussion and watchalong thread part 6

[placemats]

Follow on.

Previous thread here. https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/world-cup-2026/5551650-fifa-world-cup-2026-discussion-and-watchalong-thread-part-5

Interesting that Michael Owen was in a sexting scandal in 2022 (I think) and he now owns and breeds racehorses and is a sports pundit and commentator.

The official theme song, Un'Estate Italiana, was great too.

I think there's something special about having the World Cup in just one country. Travelling fans get to know a little about the country and culture and there's a unique atmosphere. But with this ever expanding WC, it's going to become less likely that just one country can be the host.

I read today on bbc news that they want 64 countries next time or something like that. 48 has dragged on a bit , can you imagine another four group stages to play , it’ll have to be on for two months or more to get through it all!

💲💲

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj9gm31jwg8o

Oh yes, the dosh. Of course
I’m a cynic, but I didn’t think of that tbh!!

They're desperate to find a way for China to be involved. Maybe India too.

Ahh, I see. Have more clubs opening up in places where they don’t have a big football following.

Yes. Try to promote the sport in the two most populous countries in the world.

Problem is, India is obsessed with cricket and while many Chinese people follow European teams, their own league is rubbish. The Chinese generally seem to do better with individual rather than team sports. So it's an uphill battles for FIFA, but if there's money to be made you know they'll keep trying.

And now, Colombian player Jaminton Campaz has gone into hiding due to threats after his team's loss. 😧

I hope you don't have sons!

That's awful.

I think Jayden Adams death is suss.

They could make it 256 countries and Scotland still wouldn't male the knock-out round.

In a 256 team World Cup, Scotland might be in a group with Cook Islands, San Marino and Gibraltar and still fail to go through on goal difference.

Poor Scotland;(
They qualified though and had a tough group.
I like that their fans didn’t give up on them at all.

I know. Loved the No Scotland no party 🤣

I read somewhere that Argentina have got their favourite ref ! Not sure what to believe tbh,

A Scotsman, I presume

Reffie McRefface

😂 So funny.

That wouldn't surprise me at all.

😆 🤣

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c2lylenekjpo

Hopefully Italy might just qualify!

Norwegian celebrations

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/jul/14/norway-world-cup-heartbreak-celebration-fans-oslo

Read that earlier @DuncinToffee Loved Haaland's stuffed whiskey raccoon.