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Nine MLB Stars off To Concerning Starts Heading Into Memorial Day | Deadspin.com Apr 11, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado (13) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images Memorial Day, which is the unofficial first major mile marker of the Major League Baseball season, arrives next Monday — which is May 25, the earliest possible date for the final Monday of May.Of course, the Major League Baseball season started earlier than ever this year, so Memorial Day remains a pivotal point for everyone — especially those who are struggling. Here’s a look at nine players for whom it’s no longer too early to get worried.—Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres 3B & 2B/RF: A 2-for-1 deal here for the Padres, who are in the thick of the National League West race with the Los Angeles Dodgers despite their franchise players batting a combined .209 with seven homers — all by Machado — and 37 RBIs. The slow start for Machado, whose .178 average is the fifth-lowest amongst qualified batters, is a reminder he’s going on 34 and hasn’t posted an .800 OPS since 2022. And Tatis possessing a .590 OPS — the 11th-lowest in the game — is a reminder his post-PED bust OPS of .781 is nearly 200 points lower than his pre-PED bust OPS of .965. Oh and Machado is signed through 2033 and Tatis through 2034. Gulp.—Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles SS, and Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies SS: It’s not good when the AL and NL leaders in at-bats (209 for Henderson, 201 for Turner) are both posting an on-base percentage below .300. Henderson (10 homers, 24 RBIs) is providing some pop, but he’s got 14 walks and 63 strikeouts after entering the season with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of a little more than 2:1. Plate judgment has never been a strength of Turner, who has walked more than 45 times just once in nine full seasons, but the defending NL batting champ is hitting just .236, which would be his lowest mark since a 27-game cameo as a rookie in 2015. May 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images —Bo Bichette, New York Mets 3B/SS: Of course one of the game’s most consistent and clutch hitters forgets how to hit and hit in the clutch upon joining the Mets. Bichette, who took to third base pretty well before shifting back to shortstop following injuries to Francisco Lindor and Ronny Mauricio, is batting just .225 overall and .200 with runners in scoring position, well below his career marks of .290 and .322, respectively. His three homers in back-to-back games Monday and Tuesday were two more than he had in his first 46 games combined.—Matt Chapman, San Francisco Giants 3B: The Giants, whose 173 runs are the fewest in the majors, have no shortage of disappointments in their lineup. But nobody’s struggles are as jarring as those being endured by Chapman, who has one homer, 13 extra-base hits and a .312 slugging percentage in 186 at-bats after averaging 23 homers, 54 extra-base hits and a .458 slugging percentage per season over his first nine years. May 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images —Logan Gilbert, Seattle Mariners P: Gilbert entered this season with a 3.58 ERA while allowing an average of one homer every 7.5 innings over his first five seasons. But he has a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts this year while surrendering 11 roundtrippers, tied for the most in the AL. The Mariners have no shortage of quality starting pitchers, but they need something close to a peak Gilbert to make another run at that elusive first pennant.—Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies P: Nola was one of baseball’s most reliable pitchers from 2015 through 2024, when he ranked amongst the top five in wins (fifth with 104), strikeouts (third with 1,779) and innings pitched (fourth with 1,621 1/3) while posting a 3.70 ERA. But the mileage might have caught up to Nola, who posted a 6.01 ERA while being limited to 17 starts due to ankle and rib injuries last year and has a 6.04 ERA this year, the second-worst amongst qualified starters.—Framber Valdez, Detroit Tigers P: The Tigers thought they were getting one of baseball’s best No. 2 starters when they signed Valdez, who led baseball with 68 wins and ranked fifth with 902 1/3 innings pitched while posting a 3.20 ERA from 2021 through 2025. But Valdez is 2-3 with a 4.58 ERA for Detroit, which is without ace Tarik Skubal and tied for last place in the AL Central. Valdez also got suspended five games for throwing at Trevor Story, which raised familiar questions about his maturity level. #MLB #Stars #Starts #Heading #Memorial #Day #Deadspin.com

Nine MLB Stars off To Concerning Starts Heading Into Memorial Day | Deadspin.com
Nine MLB Stars off To Concerning Starts Heading Into Memorial Day | Deadspin.com Apr 11, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado (13) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images Memorial Day, which is the unofficial first major mile marker of the Major League Baseball season, arrives next Monday — which is May 25, the earliest possible date for the final Monday of May.Of course, the Major League Baseball season started earlier than ever this year, so Memorial Day remains a pivotal point for everyone — especially those who are struggling. Here’s a look at nine players for whom it’s no longer too early to get worried.—Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres 3B & 2B/RF: A 2-for-1 deal here for the Padres, who are in the thick of the National League West race with the Los Angeles Dodgers despite their franchise players batting a combined .209 with seven homers — all by Machado — and 37 RBIs. The slow start for Machado, whose .178 average is the fifth-lowest amongst qualified batters, is a reminder he’s going on 34 and hasn’t posted an .800 OPS since 2022. And Tatis possessing a .590 OPS — the 11th-lowest in the game — is a reminder his post-PED bust OPS of .781 is nearly 200 points lower than his pre-PED bust OPS of .965. Oh and Machado is signed through 2033 and Tatis through 2034. Gulp.—Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles SS, and Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies SS: It’s not good when the AL and NL leaders in at-bats (209 for Henderson, 201 for Turner) are both posting an on-base percentage below .300. Henderson (10 homers, 24 RBIs) is providing some pop, but he’s got 14 walks and 63 strikeouts after entering the season with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of a little more than 2:1. Plate judgment has never been a strength of Turner, who has walked more than 45 times just once in nine full seasons, but the defending NL batting champ is hitting just .236, which would be his lowest mark since a 27-game cameo as a rookie in 2015. May 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images —Bo Bichette, New York Mets 3B/SS: Of course one of the game’s most consistent and clutch hitters forgets how to hit and hit in the clutch upon joining the Mets. Bichette, who took to third base pretty well before shifting back to shortstop following injuries to Francisco Lindor and Ronny Mauricio, is batting just .225 overall and .200 with runners in scoring position, well below his career marks of .290 and .322, respectively. His three homers in back-to-back games Monday and Tuesday were two more than he had in his first 46 games combined.—Matt Chapman, San Francisco Giants 3B: The Giants, whose 173 runs are the fewest in the majors, have no shortage of disappointments in their lineup. But nobody’s struggles are as jarring as those being endured by Chapman, who has one homer, 13 extra-base hits and a .312 slugging percentage in 186 at-bats after averaging 23 homers, 54 extra-base hits and a .458 slugging percentage per season over his first nine years. May 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images —Logan Gilbert, Seattle Mariners P: Gilbert entered this season with a 3.58 ERA while allowing an average of one homer every 7.5 innings over his first five seasons. But he has a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts this year while surrendering 11 roundtrippers, tied for the most in the AL. The Mariners have no shortage of quality starting pitchers, but they need something close to a peak Gilbert to make another run at that elusive first pennant.—Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies P: Nola was one of baseball’s most reliable pitchers from 2015 through 2024, when he ranked amongst the top five in wins (fifth with 104), strikeouts (third with 1,779) and innings pitched (fourth with 1,621 1/3) while posting a 3.70 ERA. But the mileage might have caught up to Nola, who posted a 6.01 ERA while being limited to 17 starts due to ankle and rib injuries last year and has a 6.04 ERA this year, the second-worst amongst qualified starters.—Framber Valdez, Detroit Tigers P: The Tigers thought they were getting one of baseball’s best No. 2 starters when they signed Valdez, who led baseball with 68 wins and ranked fifth with 902 1/3 innings pitched while posting a 3.20 ERA from 2021 through 2025. But Valdez is 2-3 with a 4.58 ERA for Detroit, which is without ace Tarik Skubal and tied for last place in the AL Central. Valdez also got suspended five games for throwing at Trevor Story, which raised familiar questions about his maturity level. #MLB #Stars #Starts #Heading #Memorial #Day #Deadspin.comApr 11, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado (13) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Memorial Day, which is the unofficial first major mile marker of the Major League Baseball season, arrives next Monday — which is May 25, the earliest possible date for the final Monday of May.

Of course, the Major League Baseball season started earlier than ever this year, so Memorial Day remains a pivotal point for everyone — especially those who are struggling. Here’s a look at nine players for whom it’s no longer too early to get worried.

—Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres 3B & 2B/RF: A 2-for-1 deal here for the Padres, who are in the thick of the National League West race with the Los Angeles Dodgers despite their franchise players batting a combined .209 with seven homers — all by Machado — and 37 RBIs. The slow start for Machado, whose .178 average is the fifth-lowest amongst qualified batters, is a reminder he’s going on 34 and hasn’t posted an .800 OPS since 2022. And Tatis possessing a .590 OPS — the 11th-lowest in the game — is a reminder his post-PED bust OPS of .781 is nearly 200 points lower than his pre-PED bust OPS of .965. Oh and Machado is signed through 2033 and Tatis through 2034. Gulp.

—Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles SS, and Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies SS: It’s not good when the AL and NL leaders in at-bats (209 for Henderson, 201 for Turner) are both posting an on-base percentage below .300. Henderson (10 homers, 24 RBIs) is providing some pop, but he’s got 14 walks and 63 strikeouts after entering the season with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of a little more than 2:1. Plate judgment has never been a strength of Turner, who has walked more than 45 times just once in nine full seasons, but the defending NL batting champ is hitting just .236, which would be his lowest mark since a 27-game cameo as a rookie in 2015.

May 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn ImagesMay 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images

—Bo Bichette, New York Mets 3B/SS: Of course one of the game’s most consistent and clutch hitters forgets how to hit and hit in the clutch upon joining the Mets. Bichette, who took to third base pretty well before shifting back to shortstop following injuries to Francisco Lindor and Ronny Mauricio, is batting just .225 overall and .200 with runners in scoring position, well below his career marks of .290 and .322, respectively. His three homers in back-to-back games Monday and Tuesday were two more than he had in his first 46 games combined.

—Matt Chapman, San Francisco Giants 3B: The Giants, whose 173 runs are the fewest in the majors, have no shortage of disappointments in their lineup. But nobody’s struggles are as jarring as those being endured by Chapman, who has one homer, 13 extra-base hits and a .312 slugging percentage in 186 at-bats after averaging 23 homers, 54 extra-base hits and a .458 slugging percentage per season over his first nine years.

May 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn ImagesMay 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

—Logan Gilbert, Seattle Mariners P: Gilbert entered this season with a 3.58 ERA while allowing an average of one homer every 7.5 innings over his first five seasons. But he has a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts this year while surrendering 11 roundtrippers, tied for the most in the AL. The Mariners have no shortage of quality starting pitchers, but they need something close to a peak Gilbert to make another run at that elusive first pennant.

—Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies P: Nola was one of baseball’s most reliable pitchers from 2015 through 2024, when he ranked amongst the top five in wins (fifth with 104), strikeouts (third with 1,779) and innings pitched (fourth with 1,621 1/3) while posting a 3.70 ERA. But the mileage might have caught up to Nola, who posted a 6.01 ERA while being limited to 17 starts due to ankle and rib injuries last year and has a 6.04 ERA this year, the second-worst amongst qualified starters.

—Framber Valdez, Detroit Tigers P: The Tigers thought they were getting one of baseball’s best No. 2 starters when they signed Valdez, who led baseball with 68 wins and ranked fifth with 902 1/3 innings pitched while posting a 3.20 ERA from 2021 through 2025. But Valdez is 2-3 with a 4.58 ERA for Detroit, which is without ace Tarik Skubal and tied for last place in the AL Central. Valdez also got suspended five games for throwing at Trevor Story, which raised familiar questions about his maturity level.

#MLB #Stars #Starts #Heading #Memorial #Day #Deadspin.com

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Apr 11, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado (13) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Memorial Day, which is the unofficial first major mile marker of the Major League Baseball season, arrives next Monday — which is May 25, the earliest possible date for the final Monday of May.

Of course, the Major League Baseball season started earlier than ever this year, so Memorial Day remains a pivotal point for everyone — especially those who are struggling. Here’s a look at nine players for whom it’s no longer too early to get worried.

—Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr., Padres 3B & 2B/RF: A 2-for-1 deal here for the Padres, who are in the thick of the National League West race with the Los Angeles Dodgers despite their franchise players batting a combined .209 with seven homers — all by Machado — and 37 RBIs. The slow start for Machado, whose .178 average is the fifth-lowest amongst qualified batters, is a reminder he’s going on 34 and hasn’t posted an .800 OPS since 2022. And Tatis possessing a .590 OPS — the 11th-lowest in the game — is a reminder his post-PED bust OPS of .781 is nearly 200 points lower than his pre-PED bust OPS of .965. Oh and Machado is signed through 2033 and Tatis through 2034. Gulp.

—Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles SS, and Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies SS: It’s not good when the AL and NL leaders in at-bats (209 for Henderson, 201 for Turner) are both posting an on-base percentage below .300. Henderson (10 homers, 24 RBIs) is providing some pop, but he’s got 14 walks and 63 strikeouts after entering the season with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of a little more than 2:1. Plate judgment has never been a strength of Turner, who has walked more than 45 times just once in nine full seasons, but the defending NL batting champ is hitting just .236, which would be his lowest mark since a 27-game cameo as a rookie in 2015.

May 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images
May 21, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a two RBI single against the Washington Nationals during the third inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images

—Bo Bichette, New York Mets 3B/SS: Of course one of the game’s most consistent and clutch hitters forgets how to hit and hit in the clutch upon joining the Mets. Bichette, who took to third base pretty well before shifting back to shortstop following injuries to Francisco Lindor and Ronny Mauricio, is batting just .225 overall and .200 with runners in scoring position, well below his career marks of .290 and .322, respectively. His three homers in back-to-back games Monday and Tuesday were two more than he had in his first 46 games combined.

—Matt Chapman, San Francisco Giants 3B: The Giants, whose 173 runs are the fewest in the majors, have no shortage of disappointments in their lineup. But nobody’s struggles are as jarring as those being endured by Chapman, who has one homer, 13 extra-base hits and a .312 slugging percentage in 186 at-bats after averaging 23 homers, 54 extra-base hits and a .458 slugging percentage per season over his first nine years.

May 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn ImagesMay 22, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert (36) pitches during the first inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

—Logan Gilbert, Seattle Mariners P: Gilbert entered this season with a 3.58 ERA while allowing an average of one homer every 7.5 innings over his first five seasons. But he has a 4.45 ERA in 11 starts this year while surrendering 11 roundtrippers, tied for the most in the AL. The Mariners have no shortage of quality starting pitchers, but they need something close to a peak Gilbert to make another run at that elusive first pennant.

—Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies P: Nola was one of baseball’s most reliable pitchers from 2015 through 2024, when he ranked amongst the top five in wins (fifth with 104), strikeouts (third with 1,779) and innings pitched (fourth with 1,621 1/3) while posting a 3.70 ERA. But the mileage might have caught up to Nola, who posted a 6.01 ERA while being limited to 17 starts due to ankle and rib injuries last year and has a 6.04 ERA this year, the second-worst amongst qualified starters.

—Framber Valdez, Detroit Tigers P: The Tigers thought they were getting one of baseball’s best No. 2 starters when they signed Valdez, who led baseball with 68 wins and ranked fifth with 902 1/3 innings pitched while posting a 3.20 ERA from 2021 through 2025. But Valdez is 2-3 with a 4.58 ERA for Detroit, which is without ace Tarik Skubal and tied for last place in the AL Central. Valdez also got suspended five games for throwing at Trevor Story, which raised familiar questions about his maturity level.

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FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.

While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.

Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.

“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.

FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGY

With Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.

The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?

The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive.

Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGYWith Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.(With inputs from Reuters)Published on Jun 13, 2026 #ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.

However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Published on Jun 13, 2026

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies">Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGYWith Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.(With inputs from Reuters)Published on Jun 13, 2026 #ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies

FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGY

With Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.

The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?

The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive.

Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGYWith Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.(With inputs from Reuters)Published on Jun 13, 2026 #ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

lightbox-info

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.

However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Published on Jun 13, 2026

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies">Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies

FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.

While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.

Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.

“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.

FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGY

With Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.

The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.

ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?

The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive.

Are ticket prices causing empty stadiums at FIFA World Cup 2026? World football body clarifies FIFA reported an attendance ‌of 44,985 for Thursday’s World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech ​Republic (Czechia) in Guadalajara, but swathes of empty seats around the stadium renewed concerns ⁠over ticket pricing and demand for the expanded tournament.While more than 80,000 squeezed into the Mexico City stadium to watch the opening game between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, the optics of unoccupied rows at the 46,000-seat stadium in ‌Guadalajara, a city with a deep-rooted football culture, have intensified criticism of FIFA’s commercial strategy for the first 48-team World Cup.Fans at the stadium blamed the high ticket ‌prices for the rows of empty seats and criticised FIFA for its pricing model.“Official attendance ‌figures ⁠reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, ⁠rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match,” FIFA said in a statement to Reuters.Official attendance figures reflect the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium footprint, rather than visual assessments of seating occupancy at any given moment during the match. FIFA works closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to… pic.twitter.com/UIJ0y9xTFp— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) June 12, 2026FIFA’S PRICING STRATEGYWith Mexico’s game at the Azteca always expected ​to sell out, South Korea’s meeting with the Czech Republic — ranked 25th and 37th respectively — at the tournament’s second-smallest stadium, provided the first genuine test of FIFA’s ⁠pricing strategy.The crowd was dominated by Mexican fans in home colours, alongside a noticeable South Korean contingent, but only a limited Czech presence.ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2026 has finally arrived, but does it really matter to the USA?The Czechs qualified late in March and faced demanding travel schedules in ‌the group stage.FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday defended FIFA’s ticket pricing following criticism from supporters who argued the cost of attending matches had become prohibitive. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.(With inputs from Reuters)Published on Jun 13, 2026 #ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

lightbox-info

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that the ticket prices have followed the industry standard for global sporting events. | Photo Credit: AP

He said ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

FIFA has sold more than six million tickets for the tournament and previously highlighted strong interest from across the Americas, with Infantino saying demand had exceeded expectations by “a factor of 10 or more”.

However, groups such as Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had warned that “extortionate” pricing would exclude ordinary ‌fans. According to FSE, ticket prices for this tournament have jumped five-fold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Published on Jun 13, 2026

#ticket #prices #causing #empty #stadiums #FIFA #World #Cup #World #football #body #clarifies
Deadspin | Juan Soto works to turn corner as Mets open set vs. Braves Jun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto. Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage. But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night. Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run. “That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.” Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games. Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain. “There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.” The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix. Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory. The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain. Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6). In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base. “We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.” Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits. Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday. Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #BravesJun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto.

Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage.

But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night.

Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run.

“That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.”

Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games.

Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain.

“There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.”


The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix.

Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory.

The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain.

Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6).

In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base.

“We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.”

Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits.

Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday.

Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves">Deadspin | Juan Soto works to turn corner as Mets open set vs. Braves Jun 11, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets designated hitter Juan Soto (22) celebrates his solo home run against the St. Louis Cardinals with teammates in the dugout during the seventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images The first few months of the season had been good to Juan Soto. Then June arrived, and his statistics took a hit. Through nine games this month, Soto is averaging .147 at the plate, with a .237 on-base percentage and a .265 slugging percentage. But after he came up clutch in the Mets’ 5-4 win against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday, the hope is that it can spur both him and the team as they open a three-game series at home against the National League East-leading Atlanta Braves on Friday night. Soto doubled in the fifth inning and scored to tie the game at 4 on Jared Young’s single. Soto delivered the go-ahead run in the seventh with a solo home run. “That’s what we play for, that’s what we grind for — to get the tough situations and come through,” Soto said. “Sometimes, it gets a little harder, but that’s what we work for and that’s what we focus (on) — try to do damage every time.” Before Thursday’s contest, Soto was just 3-for-30 over his previous eight games. Getting his bat going is crucial for a Mets offense that has struggled to produce, especially with Francisco Lindor still sidelined because of a calf strain. “There’s a sense of urgency from him all the time,” New York manager Carlos Mendoza said of Soto, who is batting .277 for the season, with 14 homers and 31 RBIs. “He wants to win. And he cares, obviously. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. This guy wants to be the biggest at-bat. He wants to be the guy.” The Mets, who sit last in the NL East, are trying to get back into the mix. Right-hander Nolan McLean (3-4, 3.98 ERA) will face the Braves for the second time in his career. He won his first career start against them last season, with two runs allowed on four hits in seven innings of a 12-7 victory. The Braves, meanwhile, arrive in New York looking to get back on track after dropping the first two contests of a three-game set against the White Sox in Chicago. The series finale was scheduled for Thursday but was postponed until August because of rain. Defeats have been few for Atlanta this season. The team has dropped consecutive games only four times and have lost three in a row just once (April 4-6). In a 2-1 loss to the White Sox on Wednesday, the Braves were just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 10 men on base. “We had opportunities,” Atlanta manager Walt Weiss said. “I think we hit some balls hard, but bottom line is we left 10 guys on base and didn’t get the big hit, so it’s tough to win scoring one.” Offensive struggles have been rare for a Braves squad that is third in the majors with 92 home runs and 341 RBIs, and fourth with 593 hits. Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-1, 4.00 ERA) will start for Atlanta on Friday. He bounced back from his lone loss by allowing three runs on five hits in five innings of a 6-3 win vs. the Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday. Strider is 6-2 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 career appearances (nine starts) against the Mets. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Juan #Soto #works #turn #corner #Mets #open #set #Braves

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.

In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.

Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.

Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goal

Mexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.

From bad to worse for Sithole…

An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

Rec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReply

Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action">Watch every World Cup goal from the opening day of action The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goalMexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.From bad to worse for Sithole…An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.Raul Jiménez has his moment!Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrivedSouth Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.The South Korean responseHwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!The substitute secures the points!Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?Closes in 3 days • 2 total votesView resultsJulian Quinones vs. RSARaul Jimenez vs. RSALadislav Krejci vs. KORHwang In-Beom vs. CZEOh Hyung-Gyu vs. CZERec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReplyHave your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup. #Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action

DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

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Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action">Watch every World Cup goal from the opening day of action

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway and we had five goals scored on the first day of action across two games. The first game on offer saw host nation Mexico dispatch South Africa 2-0. Even though El Tri’s goals were historic for different reasons, there ended up being more red cards (three) than goals. If you had that on your bingo card for the opener, congratulations.

In the late game, South Korea pulled off a comeback victory over Czechia in the second half after a strong display that could fuel a magical run in the competition. Hwang In-Beom and substitute Oh Hyun-Gyu both scored in a 13-minute span to secure all three points.

Check out all the goals, red cards and more from the opening day of action.

Julián Quiñones becomes first Concacaf player to score opening World Cup goal

Mexico opened the tournament in front of the El Tri faithful at the Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) looking to break their opening match curse. Some sloppy play out of the back by South Africa saw Sphephelo Sithole barged off the ball in a dangerous area. As soon as Quiñones gathered it, a goal felt inevitable. The roar of the crowd truly signified the start of the tournament.

From bad to worse for Sithole…

An opening day South Africa is going to want to forget fast. The midfielder committed a DOGSO offense, or denial of a goalscoring opportunity, just on the edge of the box and he was shown his marching orders. The only silver lining, if there was to be one, was that it wasn’t a penalty.

Raul Jiménez has his moment!

Raul Jiménez is very much Mexico’s talisman up top. The 35-year-old rose to prominence during his time in the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham. Though, a head injury in the 2020-21 season threatened to end his career early. For everything he’s gone through to rebuild himself over the years, you could tell by his celebration and the noise emanating from those in attendance how much his first World Cup goal meant to him. What a moment.

If Mexico is to go deep in the tournament, they’ll need their striker firing on all cylinders.

Themba Zwade put South Africa in an even deeper hole late in the second half after being shown a red card for violent conduct. From worse to… catastrophic?

César Montes gets in on the action… the wrong kind!

It would’ve been the immaculate opening to the World Cup for Mexico having won their first opening match of the tournament in their team’s history if not for César Montes’s red card in second half stoppage time. Ruled a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it’s more than an unforced error given they were up two goals against nine men with less than six minutes to play in the game.

Montes, Sithole and Zwade are all suspended for their next respective games in the tournament.

Czechia-rsenal? Set piece goals have arrived

South Korea vs. Czechia was a fascinating display. Hong Myung-Bo’s team tried to establish their possession-based system, playing through the lines early while relying on stars Lee Kang-in and Son Heung-min to provide the decisive moment. For all the dangerous chances they created early, however, it was Czechia who broke the deadlock in the second half.

A long throw set piece saw defender Ladislav Krejcí rise highest in the box, blasting a header into the back of the net. There were question marks of offside with a player standing in front of the goalkeeper, but the goal was given.

Set piece again, ole ole! Or… set piece for the first time this summer, ole ole? Arsenal coach Nicolas Jover must be licking his lips.

The South Korean response

Hwang In-Beom wasted little time getting his country back in the game. The Feyenoord midfielder made a dangerous run in-behind Czechia’s backline, deftly chopped the ball onto his right foot as he sent a defender for a souvenir before tucking the ball in at the far post. The goal of the day? Perhaps!

The substitute secures the points!

Oh Hyun-Gyu was the hero on the day scoring the game-winner off the bench in the 80th minute. A brilliant ball over the top found Hwang who doubled his goal contributions on the night with a deadly cross to find Oh. The entire action personified South Korea’s willingness to stick to their game plan and they were rewarded for it in the end. All three points puts the Koreans in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.

While there weren’t any red cards in the second game, Son reminded fans around the world attending games to pay attention at all times. The LAFC superstar tried a rifled effort from outside the box that went over the bar and into the stands.

It looked like the fan tried to deflect the ball down, but it bounced up and hit them in the face. One, hope they’re okay and two, stay alert for any errant shots for the rest of the tournament please.

POLL! World Cup Goal of the Day – June 11

What was the best goal from the opening day of 2026 World Cup action?

Rec 0CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReply

Have your say in our poll to decide what the goal of the day was, as we cover every goal, goof and everything in between throughout the World Cup.

#Watch #World #Cup #goal #opening #day #action

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