Lead:
Spain maintained their perfect record in the UEFA Nations League by defeating Czech Republic 2-0, while England beat Croatia 2-1, both securing quarter-final progression. Spain winger Lamin Yamal, sidelined by knee pain, has intensified his rehabilitation with the goal of rejoining the Spanish squad for Sunday's match against England at Metropolitano Stadium.
Top Stories:
Lionel Scaloni contract extension — Argentina's football association confirmed Scaloni will remain as head coach through the 2030 World Cup. The coach has guided Argentina to World Cup victory, two Copa America titles, and the Finalissima trophy.Kylian Mbappe clarification — Reports of a private plane awaiting Mbappe in Paris to transport him to Madrid were denied by press accounts, which confirmed no such movements occurred. Claims of conflict between Mbappe and Zinedine Zidane lack substantiation.Pep Guardiola as US coach candidate — The U.S. Soccer Federation has positioned Guardiola, the former Manchester City manager, as a primary target should Mauricio Pochettino depart to manage Manchester United. Prior contact between Guardiola and federation officials has occurred.Anes Jaber targeting 2027 return — The former world No. 2 from Tunisia stated she hopes to resume WTA competition in 2027 following childbirth in April. Jaber has reached three Grand Slam finals and withdrew from professional play last year due to injury and fatigue.Barcelona offensive dominance — Barcelona registered 48 goals in 12 LaLiga matches this season under Hans-Dieter Flick, a rate of four goals per game. The club leads Real Madrid by 17 goals, which has scored 31 across the same period.Cristiano Ronaldo international retirement honored — Portugal's football federation announced it will preserve room 201 at its national team headquarters as a tribute to Ronaldo following his retirement from international play. Ronaldo completed a 23-year career with Portugal, earning 234 caps and 146 goals, including the 2016 European Championship and two Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025.What to Watch:
Spain face England on November 9 at Metropolitano Stadium in their Nations League fixture, with both teams already qualified for the quarter-finals. Lebanon's national football team competes in the Basra International Tournament against Iraq (November 13) and Palestine (November 18) under new coach Majid Boughera, testing his project to rebuild the squad.