Brazil's credentials to end a 24-year wait to be world champions will be tested from the off as 2022 semi-finalists Morocco and a Scotland side seeking a historic breakthrough pose threats to the Selecao.

With the start of the 2026 World Cup in North America now barely three weeks away, AFP Sport runs the rule over the leading contenders at the first-ever 48-team finals.

The 2026 World Cup has bucked the trend of international football's struggles to compete with the riches of the club game when it comes to securing some of the world's best coaches.

Mexico's teachers are threatening to turn the 2026 World Cup into a global stage for one of the country's biggest labor battles in years.

Here's a look at five of the contenders to become the game's next superstar at this year's finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

After about 50 minutes, authorities ordered the evacuation of spectators, and regional body CONMEBOL subsequently announced that the Group A encounter had been called off.

Kylian Mbappe is sidelined with a hamstring injury. Lamine Yamal is out for the rest of the season and so is Brazil star Estevao

Neymar has apologized for a training ground rift with Santos teammate Robinho Jr. in an incident that could further dent his already slim chances of playing for Brazil at the World Cup.

Goals from Danilo, Igor Thiago and Gabriel Martinelli secured victory in what was Brazil's final game before coach Carlo Ancelotti names his World Cup squad.

Kylian Mbappe moved to within one goal of equalling France's all-time scoring record with the opener in a 2-1 win over Brazil as two of the leading World Cup contenders faced off in a glamour friendly in the United States.

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Monday Neymar is "not 100 percent" fit so will miss two friendlies later this month as youngster Endrick returns to the squad.

Brazil international Rodrygo will miss the rest of Real Madrid's season and the World Cup because of a torn ACL and meniscus in his right knee.

A jacket worn by football legend Pelé in the 1966 World Cup has become a hit among fans of pop singer Bad Bunny since he borrowed it from a collector's sports merchandise store and used it in his recent concerts in Sao Paulo.

Brazil star Neymar has admitted that he could retire from professional football at the end of 2026, as he battles persistent injury challenges while keeping his sights on representing his country at the FIFA World Cup later this year.

Neymar has extended his stay with Santos until the end of 2026

Neymar has agreed to renew his contract with Santos until the end of 2026, a source close to the negotiations told AFP.

Former Brazil and Real Madrid great Roberto Carlos posted a picture of himself smiling in hospital and said he was "recovering well" after confirming Wednesday he had undergone a heart procedure.

Former Brazil and Real Madrid defender Roberto Carlos has undergone surgery for a heart problem, Spanish daily sports newspaper Diario AS reported on Wednesday.