Key events

1h ago UN human rights leader demands major overhaul of American border rules for the World Cup
5h ago Mexican demonstrators halt access route to venue
6h ago Official Artan receives warm homecoming in Somalia
7h ago Opening remarks

A note arrived from Ben Watson (not the footballer): “One highlight for me each World Cup is seeing the formal outfits chosen for the England squad. Yet this time around there is zero information. Perhaps Tuchel wants to skip the extras?

“On top of that, there is no anthem and almost nothing about their accommodation. What gives?”

Remember, this is 2026, Ben. Focus has shifted to quick social clips and poolside fun. Besides, no England track has matched Three Lions since.

I found myself nodding along with Jacob Steinberg more than usual …

On the eventual champion, he noted: “The setting could favor Argentina yet I expect Spain to prevail in the final, provided De la Fuente’s attackers hit form.”

On the top scorer: “Kane heads into the event fully fit at last.”

On potential surprises: “Ecuador possess Champions League defenders, a Caicedo-led midfield and an 18-game unbeaten run. They appear sturdy and could thrive here.”

Nico Paz also stands out as a candidate for emerging talent.

Thanks, Martin.

Shall we explore our writers’ forecasts in greater depth? Absolutely …

That concludes my shift. I return on Friday, hopefully not exhausted after an odd-hour watch of South Korea versus Czechia. Dominic Booth takes over next.

Always a highlight. Guardian writers have shared their tournament forecasts. They picked finalists and winners, golden-boot holders, breakout names, teams to watch and, since nobody consulted me, I can simply observe and critique later. Broad agreement points to France, Spain or Argentina lifting the trophy.

Easy to guess this supporter’s choice …

The newest Moving the Goalposts edition is live, with Tom Garry noting that a busy transfer period may widen the financial divide in women’s football. Note: I checked and it avoids any mention of Spain 4-0 England, so safe reading.

UN rights chief calls for major overhaul of US immigration enforcement at the World Cup

UN rights chief Volker Türk addressed visa issues surrounding the tournament, such as the exclusion of referee Omar Artan on security grounds.

In Geneva, Türk told AFP: “I really hope that there is a major overhaul of how immigration enforcement affects human rights and dignity, and that especially for the World Cup, there is a fresh look at the approaches we have seen, particularly in the US.”

Artan received a hero’s welcome back in Somalia and pledged to return for the next event.

Missed yesterday’s World Cup trivia quiz? It remains available here …

Reddit users can pose questions to the Guardian’s US soccer team during an AMA on r/ussoccer. Answers begin at 7pm BST / 2pm EST.

Elsewhere, Newcastle completed their first summer signing by securing Reims goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen on a long-term contract. French forward Amadou Ba-Sy joined Hearts as their fourth new arrival.

Martin Belam

Good afternoon wherever you are, I am pleased to join the sport desk once more for the World Cup. Most group matches fall at awkward UK hours, yet that is part of the deal.

Daniel Gallan reflected on the previous South Africa-Mexico World Cup opener he watched from a Durban beach fan park. When Siphiwe Tshabalala scored, “the country lost its mind. I remember leaping into the arms of strangers.”

Here is hoping for many more such moments across the expanded 2026 schedule …

With that, I pass to Martin Belam for the afternoon session.

On This Day In World Cup History: 1990 – Careca impressed many observers.

Manchester United confirm Sancho exit, Bissouma departs Spurs. Jadon Sancho features in Dear England around the 2021 Euros, yet five years later his United release is official alongside Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia. Spurs released Yves Bissouma while extending Ben Davies.

Further to Dear England thoughts, Michael Hogan compiled viewing suggestions to build excitement. Highlights include This is England 86, The Game Of Their Lives and An Evening With Gary Lineker.

Over to the USA, where Jeff Rueter profiled London-raised Folarin Balogun, expected to lead the co-hosts attack.

Some forwards draw constant attention even during quiet spells. Folarin Balogun prefers quiet focus and steady scoring. The 24-year-old, born in New York but raised in London, chose the US over England and Nigeria. Last season he ranked fourth in Ligue 1 with 13 goals, ready for a home World Cup.
US supporters tracked his move closely, seeking a reliable finisher.
“What we would say in England is how sharp he is,” captain Tim Ream said. “His movement, ability to hold play and link others, plus runs in behind, are qualities we have needed. He is the most awkward striker to face in training because of his speed, strength and glide past defenders.”

Quick note on last night’s action – England beat Ukraine 3-0 in their final Women’s World Cup qualifier, yet Spain’s win over Iceland sent the Lionesses into playoffs for Brazil 2027.

Some reader comments. Jacknimrod10 wrote:

Could anyone picture a real chat with Gianni Infantino? He appears detached from ordinary fans. If he believed his own words he would have acted on the referee issue. He has only increased his unpopularity.

A fair point. He is clearly capable yet seems unable to apply critical thinking, a textbook case of power and money shaping outlook.

Brief sports crossover as Chuck D makes his Guardian Sport bow.

Additional club updates: Casemiro’s Manchester United exit is confirmed, as is Ben Davies’s one-year Tottenham extension.

Mexican protesters block road to stadium

The US is not alone among hosts facing political friction, though Mexico’s situation is being managed carefully. Demonstrators blocked an avenue to Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium for hours on Tuesday, AFP reports.

Teacher protests continue, with thousands joining Tuesday’s action led by a CNTE splinter group after a week of unrest President Claudia Sheinbaum labeled a “provocation.”

Police stopped the march short of the stadium, which hosts Thursday’s opener. Thousands of officers and barriers kept order; protesters gathered for three hours before leaving peacefully.

Security chief Pablo Vazquez confirmed the event stayed calm. Sheinbaum stated the match is “guaranteed” and ruled out force, favoring dialogue instead.

The CNTE union has struck since last week seeking pay rises and pension changes. They also camp near the Zocalo fan zone and plan further action on Thursday alongside families of the disappeared.

Thomas Tuchel said at last night’s press conference he is granting players family time and relaxed afternoons to foster a calm environment. After finishing Dear England, the shift from Southgate to Tuchel stands out, as does Harry Kane’s admirable portrayal. The drama builds useful anticipation.

Paul Gascoigne appeared on Good Morning Britain discussing England’s chances and team unity, PA Media reports.

“You want 11 captains on the pitch and at a World Cup you cannot carry anyone,” Gascoigne said. “Everyone must stay sharp and team spirit matters.

“The players not involved in 1990 backed the squad fully, so our spirit was incredible. That spirit carries you far.”

Asked what he would tell today’s squad, the 59-year-old added: “Enjoy it. You never know when it could be your last World Cup.”