Controversy has erupted in the Asian section of World Cup qualifying, with Saudi Arabia and Qatar securing spots for the 2026 tournament under disputed circumstances. Both nations benefited from home advantage and additional rest days, leading Iraq and the United Arab Emirates to question the fairness of the process. The lack of neutral venues and opaque logistics have drawn criticism from managers and fans alike, with calls for greater transparency in future rounds.

Meanwhile, Turkish football faces a potential scandal as the national federation revealed widespread betting among referees, prompting investigations and calls to suspend the top division. In Spain, Real Madrid's strong form under coach Xabi Alonso is overshadowed by reports of friction between Alonso and senior players, as the club adapts to his stricter management style. These developments highlight ongoing tensions and challenges in global football, both on and off the pitch.