The qualification picture for the 2026 World Cup is now clearer, with just the play-offs remaining to be completed before the final 48-team line-up is confirmed.The latest round of qualifiers

Northern Ireland have recorded just one victory over Italy in the 11 previous meetings between the two nations. Michael O'Neill's side face a trip to Italy in March for the semi-finals of the European play-offs for a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has declared that the weight of expectation lies firmly on Italy's shoulders as his young side prepare for a daunting 2026 World Cup play-off semi-final away to the four-time champions.

Italy will first host Northern Ireland in a World Cup qualifying playoff in March but then would go on the road to reach its first tournament after back-to-back failures at this stage.

Germany have moved into ninth place ahead in the latest FIFA men's rankings ahead of the 2026 World Cup draw, likely sealing a place in Pot 1 for the draw.

By Emilio Parodi MILAN (Reuters) -Italian prosecutors have placed luxury group Tod's and three of its executives under investigation for suspected labour abuses and are seeking a temporary blanket ban on company advertising,

Under the current penal code, rape is defined as an act committed with violence, threats or abuse of authority. Critics say these criteria dissuade victims to come forward for fear they will not be believed if they cannot show physical signs of abuse or prove they tried to resist the assault.