Rainbow flags in the stands, Pride events across the city, colorful parties in the streets. And right in the middle of it all: a football match between two nations united in their hostility toward the LGBTQ+ community.

Saturday’s World Cup Group G clash between Iran and Egypt in the northwestern US city of Seattle won’t just determine who will progress to the knock-out round; it is also generating significant political controversy in the buildup.

In the first official “Pride Match” in World Cup history, the two competing teams hail from Muslim-majority nations where the LGBTQ+ community faces immense hardship and even criminal prosecution.

Federations criticize FIFA

The fact that this situation has arisen is ultimately a coincidence.

Even before the World Cup group draw in December, and before the specific matchups were known, the local organizing committee in Seattle had designated the game a “Pride Match,” around a festival on the last weekend of June.

But the inclusion of the fixture in the city’s Pride celebrations has not gone down well with the two participating football federations.

A spokesperson for the Iranian national team told The Athletic that they were taking the matter “seriously.” In fact, they take it so seriously that the two opponents even joined forces before the match to stage a renewed protest, just as they had done when the fixture was first announced.

After all, the Iranian federation noted, Egypt and Iran are “two Muslim countries with deep cultural and religious commonalities,” countries that share “values ​​and beliefs.”

They have urged FIFA to take “the necessary steps” to “ensure that no such ceremonies or promotional activities take place in the stadium.” The aim is to prevent symbols associated with “the movement” — as the federation referred to the LGBTQ+ community — from appearing inside the stadium, including rainbow flags.

For weeks, there has even been talk of a potential boycott or the match being called off. However, experts consider such a drastic reaction unlikely.

The LGBTQ+ community faces intense pressure in both Iran, where the death penalty can be imposed for homosexual acts, and in Egypt, where homosexuality can also lead to criminal prosecution.

FIFA – political stances vary by host

FIFA has remained steadfast so far. In response to an inquiry from The Athletic, the organization stated that the World Cup is an “inclusive event” and that fans of all sexual orientations are “welcome” at the matches.

This demonstrates that the global governing body prefers to align its stance on political messages with the conditions in the host countries rather than adhering to a clear policy of its own.

In Qatar in 2022, the wearing of the “One Love” captain’s armband was banned. Fans displaying certain symbols, such as the rainbow flag, were denied entry to the stadiums.

The situation is different in Canada, Mexico and the United States, who are co-hosting this year’s tournament. According to the stadium code of conduct, “rainbow flags and other flags representing sexual orientation and gender identity” are permitted.

In Seattle, local organizers insist they will not be deterred by the homophobia and anti-queer sentiment of the Iranian and Egyptian federations.

“Let’s welcome people to Seattle,” Hedda McLendon, a member of the city’s World Cup organizing committee, told the website Outsports. “And let’s show them how proud we are.”

This article was adapted from German.

Elsewhere in sports news, Ecuador pulled off a stunning 2-1 upset over Germany. La Tri snatched victory late on and, with four points from the group stage, are guaranteed a place in the Round of 16 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.

It was a different story for Tunisia. The Carthage Eagles crashed out after a third straight defeat, falling 3-1 to the Netherlands. The Dutch top Group F ahead of Japan, who secured second place with a 1-1 draw against Sweden.

France face a major test on Friday as Les Bleus take on Norway, with top spot in Group I up for grabs.

Senegal, meanwhile, are out of second chances. After defeats to France and Norway, the Lions of Teranga must beat Iraq convincingly on Friday to keep their hopes alive of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.

In Group H, Spain still have work to do. La Roja are not yet through and will look to seal qualification against Uruguay while continuing their impressive rise in the tournament.

Meanwhile, a new chapter begins for Alexia Putellas. After 14 trophy-laden years at Barcelona, where she won it all, the two-time Ballon d’Or winner (2021, 2022) is set to join Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses.

Finally, Sébastien Ogier moved into the lead at the Acropolis Rally in Greece.

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From the show

World Cup Debrief

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1 min

Despite an unexpected loss against Ecuador, Germany take top spot in group E. Ivory Coast are through to the knockout stage of the competition for the first time in their history. The Netherlands cement their position at the top of group F, thanks to a confident win over Tunisia. Despite being eliminated, Türkiye managed to win against team USA. Japan and Sweden stayed level at 1-1, as did Paraguay and Australia in a goalless game. Finally, France prepare for a clash against Norway later this Friday. 

The struggling New York Mets have dismissed manager Carlos Mendoza, appointing Andy Green as interim manager, as the team languishes with a disappointing 34-47 record at the season’s midpoint.

Owner Steve Cohen‘s significant investment, including baseball’s highest payroll at baseball’s highest payroll at $358 million and being projected to pay an additional $124 million in luxury tax, has failed to translate into success for a franchise without a World Series title since 1986.

Cohen stated, “Our commitment to bringing our fans a championship-caliber team has not changed. There is no sugar-coating it: This season has been a disappointment and our fans deserve better than what we’ve delivered.”

A six-game losing streak has left New York 15 games behind NL East leaders Atlanta and 9 1/2 games out of the final wild-card spot. Compounding their woes, key players like Francisco Lindor, Marcus Semien, Luis Robert Jr., Clay Holmes, and Jorge Polanco have faced injuries. The team recently traded pitcher David Peterson and may now pivot towards a selloff and future retooling.

Mendoza, who joined the Mets after the 2023 season following 15 seasons with the Yankees, leaves with a 206-199 record. The team failed to reach the playoffs last year and has been one of baseball’s biggest disappointments this season, including a 12-game losing streak in April, their longest since 2002.

President of baseball operations David Stearns, who hired Mendoza and orchestrated significant roster changes including signing Juan Soto and trading Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo, acknowledged the difficult decision.

“Carlos has led the organization with passion and grace and is beloved by everyone who works with him on a daily basis,” Stearns said. “Carlos’ impact on our players, staff, and culture over the last three seasons has been transformative. Unfortunately, we know we are falling short and change is necessary to move forward.”

Andy Green, a former major league infielder, joined the Mets in 2023 as senior vice president of baseball development. He previously managed the San Diego Padres from 2016-19, compiling a 274-366 record with sub-.500 finishes in all four seasons.

Green, who played four games for the Mets in 2009, becomes the fourth manager under Cohen’s ownership, following Luis Rojas, Buck Showalter, and Mendoza.

Mendoza’s dismissal marks the third managerial change in MLB since the season began, following Alex Cora in Boston and Rob Thomson in Philadelphia.

The race for the Round of 32 enters a decisive phase on June 27 as Groups G, H and I conclude their league-stage campaigns at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While France and Norway have already secured qualification from Group I, the battle for top spot and the remaining knockout scenarios remain alive. 

Group H promises one of the biggest showdowns of the group stage as Spain face Uruguay, while Group G remains completely open with Egypt, Iran and Belgium all still capable of progressing. Every goal could prove decisive as teams fight for direct qualification and valuable third-place positions.

Group I: Who will take top spot?

France and Norway have already booked their places in the Round of 32 after winning their opening two matches, but first place in the group remains undecided. France need only a draw against Norway to finish as group winners, while the Norwegians must win to leapfrog Didier Deschamps’ side.

The second fixture carries huge significance for Senegal and Iraq despite both sitting outside the automatic qualification spots. Victory is essential for either side to keep realistic hopes alive of advancing as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams. A defeat would almost certainly end their World Cup journey, while even a draw may not be enough given the competition among third-placed teams.

Key match: Norway vs France

Group H: Spain and Uruguay headline a winner-takes-control showdown

Group H remains one of the most unpredictable groups heading into the final round. Spain lead the standings after collecting four points and know that avoiding defeat against Uruguay should be enough to secure qualification.

Uruguay, meanwhile, remain firmly in contention after their entertaining draw with Cape Verde. Marcelo Bielsa’s side need a victory to guarantee progression without relying on other results.

Key match: Uruguay vs Spain

Group G: Three teams chasing two qualification spots

Group G enters its final day with everything still to play for. Egypt currently occupy top spot after taking four points from their opening two matches and require only a draw against Iran to secure qualification.

Iran know victory guarantees progression, while a draw could also be enough depending on the outcome of Belgium’s match.

Belgium remain alive despite an inconsistent campaign. The Red Devils must defeat New Zealand and hope Egypt avoid defeat against Iran to improve their chances of finishing in the top two or securing a strong third-place finish.

New Zealand are the outsiders but still have a mathematical chance. Only a victory over Belgium, combined with favourable results elsewhere, will keep their World Cup dream alive.

Key match: Egypt vs Iran

FIFA World Cup 2026: June 27 matches live streaming and telecast details

Which two teams will feature in the first game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

Norway will take on France in the opening match of the day at 12:30 am IST in the decisive Group I clash.

Which two teams will feature in the second game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

Senegal will face Iraq in the other Group I fixture, also scheduled to kick off at 12:30 am IST.

Which two teams will feature in the third game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

Cape Verde will lock horns with Saudi Arabia in a crucial Group H encounter beginning at 5:30 am IST.

Which two teams will feature in the fourth game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

Uruguay will take on Spain in the other Group H fixture, also starting at 5:30 am IST.

Which two teams will feature in the fifth game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

New Zealand will meet Belgium in a vital Group G clash scheduled for 8:30 am IST.

Which two teams will feature in the sixth game of FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 27?

Egypt will face Iran in the other Group G fixture, also kicking off at 8:30 am IST.

Where to watch the live broadcast of the FIFA World Cup 2026 June 27 matches in India?

The broadcast of the June 27 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be available on Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD TV channels for fans in India.

Where to watch the live streaming of the FIFA World Cup 2026 June 27 matches in India?

The live streaming of the June 27 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be available on the ZEE5 app and website for viewers in India.

Manchester City have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest for the transfer of Elliot Anderson to the Elithad Stadium.

England international Jarell Quansah believes Elliot Anderson will “go right to the top” after news of his impending move to Manchester City broke on Thursday night.

City have agreed a £116m fee with Nottingham Forest for Anderson, though reports of him undergoing a medical in New York on Friday are premature. A date for the midfielder’s medical has not yet been set though it is expected to take place following the completion of the World Cup group stage.

The move will see City smash the record fee paid for a British player, and their own club record – eclipsing the £100m they paid for Jack Grealish back in 2021.

Quansah was asked about Anderson’s move ahead of England’s final group stage game against Panama on Saturday, and the Bayer Leverkusen defender claimed the news had done little to disrupt Anderson’s focus as England strive to secure World Cup glory.

“I see a player that’s fully focused on what he wants, and I think at the moment what he wants is to win a World Cup,” the England defender told talkSPORT. “That ultimately is the goal.

“Obviously I’m not in his head or whatnot, but I’m sure he is fully focused on winning the World Cup for England, and you can’t drift too far away from that and he knows that. But he’s a proper focused young lad and he’ll go right to the top, I think.”

Quansah went on to discuss the qualities Anderson will offer at the Etihad, claiming he has been aware of his talent for quite some time following his move to Anderson’s former loan club Bristol Rovers.

“I think he’s a very versatile player as well,” he added. “This season he’s played a deeper role, played in a sort of a six and sometimes an eight, but he’s got probably everything you want as a midfielder, to be honest.

“I remember hearing about him at Bristol Rovers when I went on loan there afterwards and I think he was playing on the wing.

“Knowing he can do that and what he does in training sessions as well, he’s got a lot of attributes that are really good for an England squad and exactly what the manager wants, which is good.”

Kuro Games has revealed the banners for the Wuthering Waves 3.5 update during the official special preview program broadcast. The upcoming patch will bring two new characters, Yangyang: Xuanling and Suisui, and will also have reruns for several older characters and their weapons.

Let’s take a look at the Wuthering Waves 3.5 banners.

All Wuthering Waves 3.5 banners

Version 3.5 of the game will introduce two new characters as part of the Mengzhou cast. Here are the banners for phases 1 and 2 for the upcoming update:

Phase 1

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• Yangyang: Xuanling (5-star Havoc)
• Lynae (5-star Spectro)
• Luuk Herssen (5-star Spectro)
• Chixia (4-star Fusion)
• Aalto (4-star Aero)
• Danjin (4-star Havoc)

Yangyang: Xuanling has been confirmed as one of the characters who will receive a banner during phase 1 of the 3.5 update. She is a Havoc DPS who can use the Havoc Bane status effect to dish out damage. She is also a sword user and will be the first Mengzhou character to become playable.

Lynae and Luuk Herssen will also be available during phase 1 of the 3.5 update, and you will be able to obtain them. Both are spectro characters, with the former using Pistol, while the doctor from Startorch Academy uses gauntlets.

The 4-stars for this phase will be Chixia, Danjin, and Aalto. Additionally, separate weapon convenes will be available for Yangyang’s signature sword, Azure Oath, Lynae’s pistols called Spectrum Blasters, and Luuk Herssen’s signature weapon called Daybreaker’s Spine.

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Phase 2

• Suisui (5-star Glacio)
• Aemeath (5-star Fusion)
• Baizhi (4-star Glacio)
• Mortefi (4-star Fusion)
• Lumi (4-star Electro)

Suisui is the second Mengzhou character to join the game during phase 2 of the 3.5 update. She is a Glacio support for the Negative Status effect archetype, and she uses a Rectifier. She is also a 5-star Resonator and will be available till the end of the Wuthering Waves 3.5 patch.

Alongside her, Aemeath in Wuthering Waves, will also receive her rerun banner. She is a Fusion DPS who is also one of the strongest characters in the game’s meta. The 4-stars for this phase will be Lumi, Baizhi, and Mortefi.

Suisui’s signature rectifier, Firstlight’s Herald, and Aemeath’s signature sword, Everbright Polestar, will also be available for a limited-time.

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Special Banner: Starpath Reverbs

A special banner will be released for the following characters in the game:

• Jiyan (5-star Aero)
• Yinlin (5-star Electro)
• Jinhsi (5-star Spectro)
• Changli (5-star Fusion)
• Xiangli Yao (5-star Electro)
• Zhezhi (5-star Glacio)

Their signature weapons will also be available as a special Convene banner:

• Verdant Summit (5-star Broadblade)
• Stringmaster (5-star Rectifier)
• Age of Harvest (5-star Broadblade)
• Blazing Brilliance (5-star Sword)
• Verity’s Handle (5-star Gauntlet)
• Rime-Draped Sprouts (5-star Rectifier)

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