With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just days away, the pre-tournament friendlies have done more than fill a schedule. They have provided clues, issued warnings, and in some cases, caused real concern, as Yankee scores reports.
France and the Ghost of 2010
The most unsettling story of the warm-up window belongs to France. Didier Deschamps’ team took the lead with a brilliant goal by Rayan Cherki in Nantes. However, they fell apart after halftime as Guela Doué and Amad Diallo turned the match around for Ivory Coast, leading to a 2-1 win which if we’re being honest, is troubling.
The context makes it even worse. On June 4, 2010, 16 years ago, France lost their last warm-up before the World Cup. What followed was one of the worst tournament collapses in history, with Les Bleus failing to win a single group game. This is not a guarantee that history will repeat itself, but anything can happen. France will face Senegal on June 16.
England: Winning, But Not Convincing
Thomas Tuchel was not entirely satisfied after England’s 1-0 win over New Zealand. He noted that his team played “too much freestyle” before the World Cup. That’s a coach being cautious but expressive about the fact that they are not playing as well as he wants.
England secured the three points but showed little to indicate they have developed a strong identity. They are in Group L with Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, and any unreadiness will be punished quickly.
Portugal’s Temper Problem
Portugal won against Chile 2-1, but the score was not the main concern. Rafael Leão was sent off after a heated confrontation with Chile defender Iván Román. Leão was seen throwing a punch, leading to both players being dismissed just before halftime, per ESPN.
Friendly suspensions do not carry over to the World Cup, so Leão will be available for Portugal’s Group K opener against DR Congo on June 17. However, Roberto Martínez will need to have a talk with him. A player fighting just four days before the tournament is not the distraction any team wants.
The Teams Who Showed Up Ready
Not everything or everyone was chaotic. Scotland coach Steve Clarke expressed he has “fantastic problems” after his team dominated Bolivia 4-0 in New Jersey. This victory means a lot for a squad returning to the men’s World Cup after a 28-year absence. Brazil also handled their match well. Teenage striker Endrick came off the bench at halftime to score the winner against Egypt in Cleveland, giving the Seleção a 2-1 victory to end their warm-up matches.
4 goals in two consecutive #FIFAWorldCup Finals. Can Mbappé add more to his tally? 👀🇫🇷
Only 4⃣ days to go! pic.twitter.com/mcrZ9e11h9
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 7, 2026
Argentina’s Injury Blow
Defending champions Argentina lost centre-back Leonardo Balerdi to a calf injury during their warm-up camp in Texas. Coach Scaloni now needs to find a replacement, with Marcos Senesi and Lucas Martínez Quarta among the options. This setback won’t derail Argentina; they have a deep squad. However, it serves as a reminder that squad depth is not just a luxury at this level. It is essential.
The teams that arrive with momentum: Belgium, Brazil, Scotland have earned the right to feel confident as June 11 approaches. The whistle will blow soon. The Mundial is almost here.
