World Football

The UEFA Champions League final may be done meaning the dust settles on the top European leagues for a while at least. Delyth Lloyd is joined by World Football’s Mani Djazmi, German football writer Constantin Eckner and Spanish football expert Eduardo Alvarez to look back over all the big talking points from across Europe.From Serie A through to the Bundesliga, La Liga and Ligue 1, our panel give their views on a momentous season.Photo: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona celebrates the La Liga EA Sports 2024/2025 championship during the La Liga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Villarreal CF at Olimpic Llus Companys in Barcelona, Spain, on May 18, 2025. (Credit: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Paris St Germain wrote their names into the Champions League history books after beating Inter Milan 5-0 in the final in Munich to win the trophy for the first time.World Football’s Delyth Lloyd is joined by Italian football journalist Daniele Verri and French broadcaster Patrick Juilliard to discuss the big talking points from the match.It brings to an end the finale of an expanded format introduced by UEFA which has seen a mammoth 189 matches since the main group stage began back in August.You’ll also hear from the PSG and Inter camps with their post-match thoughts.Photo: The Champions League trophy ahead of the UEFA Champions League Final 2025 between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Internazionale Milano at on May 28, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Credit: UEFA via Getty Images)

2025 marks 20 years since of one of the most extraordinary nights in Champion League history, as Liverpool completed the "Miracle of Istanbul”.AC Milan had a star-studded line up and were overwhelming favourites, especially after they raced into a 3-0 lead. However, Liverpool launched an amazing second half comeback that culminated in them winning the trophy in a penalty shootout.To mark the 20th anniversary, we take you back to that iconic night with those who were there, including penalty-saving hero, Jerzy Dudek. Plus, broadcasters and fans, each with their own unique perspective on the moments that made the match the most talked-about for years.Photo: Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard lifts the European Cup after Liverpool won the European Champions League final between Liverpool and AC Milan on May 25, 2005 at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, Turkey. (Credit: Getty Images)

There's 370 matches down and just ten to go in the Premier League seasonLiverpool will lift their 20th top flight title in Arne Slot's first year in charge, so as the season draws to a close Sportsworld and World Football have collaborated to hand out their own awards. So who will former West Ham midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker, Everton goalkeeper Asmir Begovic and Washington Spirit and England international defender Esme Morgan pick as their winners of season 24-25?Photo: Liverpool's Mohamed Salah and the players celebrate winning the league after the Premier League match between Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield in Liverpool, England, on April 27, 2025. (Credit: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Ange Postecoglou is the first coach from outside Europe or South America to win a European trophy, but what does that achievement mean for Australian football?Former Australia goalkeeper Mark Bosnich and journalist Michael Lynch tell World Football's Mani Djazmi about the significance in the context of Australian sport, and chart Postecoglou’s rise from immigrant to European winner.Photo: Ange Postecoglou, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, celebrates with the UEFA Europa League trophy after his team's victory in the UEFA Europa League Final 2025 between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at Estadio de San Mames on May 21, 2025 in Bilbao, Spain. (Credit: UEFA via Getty Images)

SV Elversberg, from a small town of around 13,000 people, face Heidenheim in a promotion/relegation play-off. If they win – and most second-tier teams don’t – they will welcome Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Bayer Leverkusen and the rest to their stadium with a capacity of 10,000. The club’s Sporting Director, Nils Ole-Book, has been telling World Football's Mani Djazmi how they've gone from the fourth tier to the brink of the big time in just three years.Photo: Cornerflag of SV Elversberg in the Ursapharm-Arena Stadium before the Second Bundesliga match between SV 07 Elversberg and SC Preußen Münster at Ursapharm-Arena on March 15, 2025 in Spiesen-Elversberg, Germany. (Credit: firo sportphoto/Getty Images)

Basketball, the Cold War, and rock band The Grateful Dead collide in this incredible true story. Presented by the late NBA star Bill Walton. Episodes weekly from 19 May.What do basketball, rock music, and tie-dye t-shirts have in common? And what about Mickey Hart, Sarunas Marciulionis, Arvydas Sabonis, and the US Dream Team? Well, they are all subject of the brand new season of Amazing Sport Stories: Bill Walton’s The Grateful Team.It’s Moscow, 1989, and Lithuanian basketball star Sarunas Marciulionis is walking nervously through the airport. If all goes to plan, a new life awaits playing basketball for the NBA in the US. But first, he must cross the Iron Curtain. Sarunas doesn’t yet know the incredible journey he is about to go on. One which will involve political upheaval, the Olympic games, the US rock band The Grateful Dead - and, of course, tie-dye. The late NBA star and sports commentator Bill Walton presents this extraordinary true story. Bill passed away in 2024, not long after recording the series, and his family have given permission for its release following his death. Amazing Sport Stories brings you the greatest twists and personal journeys from sport history. Listen for inspiring tales of courage, drama, myths and legends from all over the globe. All told in mini seasons and one-off documentary episodes. #AmazingSportStories

From the third tier of German women’s football to the Frauen-Bundesliga in successive seasons, Union Berlin’s women’s team have been on a rapid rise.They won the Bundesliga 2 title on the final day of the regular season on goal difference from Nurnberg, and next term will line up against the biggest names in German women’s football such as Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich.World Football’s Delyth Lloyd has been speaking to Union Berlin forward Dina Orshmann about how it feels for the club to be in the top flight for the first time.PHOTO CREDIT: Dina Orshmann playing for Union Berlin (Credit: Union Berlin)

From having no footballs to winning the league in a year, World Football's Mani Djazmi's been following the extraordinary rise of Auckland FC.Football Director Terry McFlynn describes how they found the players and the fans, and defender Tommy Smith explains how the players started a dressing room culture from scratch, once they had been assembled.But how much is Auckland’s success down to having a billionaire owner, Bill Foley, and being part of his Black Knight multi-club group, that’s headed by Bournemouth?Photo: Auckland FC celebrate with the Premier's Plate following the round 28 A-League Men match between Auckland FC and Perth Glory at Go Media Stadium, on April 27, 2025, in Auckland, New Zealand. (Credit: Getty Images)

In this episode of World Football we discuss one of the biggest matches in the global calendar, El Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid.With both sides vying for the La Liga title, Barcelona ran out 4-3 winners in a game where a Kylian Mbappe hat trick for Real Madrid wasn't enough for Carlo Ancelotti's side to close the gap at the top.Barcelona are now seven points clear with nine to play for and another title looks to be in their grasp in Hansi Flick's first season in charge.World Football's Delyth Lloyd has been discussing the game with George Addo and Spanish football journalist Eduardo Alvarez.Photo Credit: Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid passes the ball under pressure from Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona during the LaLiga match between Barcelona and Real Madrid at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on May 11, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

London City Lionesses’ owner Michele Kang says she wants to show women’s football teams are a good investment even without an affiliation to a men’s team.The Lionesses will be the first team to compete in the WSL in England without a link to a men’s football team, but Kang told the BBC she doesn’t see this as a disadvantage.Kang also owns Washington Spirit in the United States and eight-time Women's Champions League winners Olympique Lyonnais who are playing in the new look playoffs this weekend to decide the title winners in France.Find out what’s next for her French team Lyon this weekend and hear a rare interview with Michele Kang who’s been speaking to World Football’s Jo Currie:Photo - Michele Kang, Owner of London City Lionesses, celebrates with the Barclays Women's Championship trophy after London City Lionesses win the Barclays Women's Championship and subsequently gain promotion to the Barclays Women's Super League after the Barclays Women's Championship match between Birmingham City and London City Lionesses at St Andrew’s at Knighthead Park on May 04, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Credit: FA via Getty Images)

It was the game that no-one wanted to end...For the second time in six days Inter Milan and Barcelona served up a European classic as the champions of Italy won 4-3 on the night - 7-6 on aggregate - to reach the Champions League final.It was the joint highest-scoring Champions League semi-final ever, with the 13 goals equalling the 2018 semi-final when Liverpool also defeated Roma 7-6 on aggregate.Italian football expert Mina Rzouki and Ernest Macia from Radio Catalunya joined World Football’s Ade Adedoynin to reflect on one of the all-time great European football ties.Photo: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates his goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Barcelona at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Credit: Getty Images)

There’s been a rise in global attention towards football in Saudi Arabia with high-profile players moving to teams in the country, but are Saudi Arabia clubs now starting to dominate in Asia?Three of the four AFC Champions League semi-finalists are from Saudi Arabia with former Premier League players Roberto Firmino and Ivan Toney scoring to help Al-Ahli reach the final over Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Hilal.World Football’s Nick Hatton speaks to Asian football journalist Michael Church about how Saudi Arabian clubs are dominating Asia’s premier club competition.Image: Ivan Toney of Al-Ahli Saudi celebrates scoring his team's second goal with teammate Galeno during the AFC Champions League Elite Semi Final between Al Hilal and Al Ahli at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on April 29, 2025 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Liverpool equalled Manchester United's record of 20 top-flight titles with their 2024/25 Premier League win, but it wasn’t just the team making history.Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk became the first Dutch manager and captain to win the Premier League title, so how has their influence helped Liverpool to glory – especially in Slot’s first season in England?World Football’s Sarah Mulkerrins is joined by football reporter George Addo as they get the views of former Liverpool and Netherlands players Bolo Zenden and Sander Westerveld.Image: Arne Slot head coach of Liverpool and Virgil van Dijk captain of Liverpool celebrating after being named Champions of the Premier League at the end of the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at Anfield on April 27, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

After a season which promised so much but has delivered so little, how can Atletico Madrid make the next step in La Liga and bridge the gap to Real Madrid and Barcelona?Diego Simeone’s side made some big signings in the European summer, but they’ve fallen short in all major competitions.World Football’s John Bennett gets the views of Atletico Madrid podcasters Chami and Eduardo, and Spanish football expert Alvaro Romeo.Image: Diego Simeone in action during the LaLiga match between Atletico Madrid and Valladolid at Cívitas Metropolitano on April 14, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Credit: Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)

With uncertainty around Marcus Rashford’s future, where will the Manchester United forward be playing next season?Will he leave his boyhood club? Could he stay at Aston Villa beyond his loan spell? Or could a move abroad be on the cards? BBC's chief football news reporter Simon Stone joins World Football’s Maz Farookhi to discuss what Rashford’s next move could be.Image: Marcus Rashford of Aston Villa reacts during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final Second Leg match between Aston Villa FC and Paris Saint-Germain at Villa Park on April 15, 2025 in Birmingham, England. (Credit: Danehouse/Getty Images)

Leeds United and Burnley have both secured their return to the Premier League, so how did they do it and do they have what it takes to stay in the Premier League?For Burnley it is an immediate bounce back after they were relegated last season, while Leeds took two years to secure their return.Dan Jewell, who covers Burnley for the BBC, joins World Football’s Nick Hatton to discuss the two side’s promotions and they also hear the views of former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford and former Burnley defender Michael Duff.Image: The players of Burnley celebrate with champagne following the team's victory and subsequent promotion to the Premier League in the Sky Bet Championship match between Burnley FC and Sheffield United FC at Turf Moor on April 21, 2025 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

In this episode, we take a look at two African players making a huge impact in the Premier League for Brentford.Cameroon's Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa from DR Congo are the top two goalscorers for Brentford during their time in the Premier League with 40 and 42 goals respectively.They both added to their tally in the 4-2 win against Brighton, making it the seventh time this season they've scored in the same game, closing in on the record of 10.John Bennett has been speaking to World Football's George Addo and the former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani about Wissa and Mbuemo’s partnership.Photo: Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford celebrates with teammate Yoane Wissa after scoring his team's third goal from the penalty spot during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Ipswich Town FC at Gtech Community Stadium on October 26, 2024 in Brentford, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

In this episode of World Football, we bring together two sports not usually associated with each other – football and snooker.That’s because four-time world snooker champion Mark Selby’s career has been strongly linked to his hometown football club Leicester City.He became world champion for the second time on the night of Leicester’s iconic Premier League title win in 2016As he prepares to try to add another world title to his collection at the World Championship in Sheffield, England he’s been telling John Bennett about his footballing passion.Photo: Mark Selby with a Leicester City football club flag after lifting the trophy after beating Ding Junhui to win the World Snooker Championship final at the Crucible Theatre on May 02, 2016 in Sheffield, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

The last time five-time winners Barcelona won the men’s Champions League was 2015, but, after a 10-year wait, is the 2024-25 season their best chance to be crowned kings of Europe again?Ernest Macia from Radio Catalunya joins World Football’s Mike Williams and George Addo to assess where Barcelona are now, if they have what it takes to win the Champions League this season and the influence of their manager Hansi Flick. Image: Raphinha of FC Barcelona (R) celebrates scoring his team's first goal with teammates Pau Cubarsi, Fermin Lopez and Jules Kounde during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between FC Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on April 09, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Family members and former team-mates including his son Tyrese Campbell, Wayne Rooney and Andy Cole open up about the life and death of ex-Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell.Darren Fletcher narrates the story of Campbell's life, loss and legacy, told by those who knew him best.(Images via Getty Images and the Campbell family)

It's set to be a huge week in European club football with the second legs of the Champions League quarter-finals taking place as the road to Munich in May takes shape.While Barcelona have a commanding 4-0 advantage in their tie against Borussia Dortmund, their big Spanish rivals Real Madrid go into the second leg at home to Arsenal 3-0 down, with the holders facing a huge battle to remain in the competition.They also trail Barcelona in the La Liga title race, only increasing the pressure on legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti.The Italian is one of the most decorated coaches in European football, and no one has won more Champions League titles as a manager, including in 2024 with Madrid.Spanish football journalist Juan Castro has been telling World Football’s Delyth Lloyd about the scrutiny Ancelotti is under. Photo: Carlo Ancelotti, manager of Real Madrid, during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg match between Arsenal FC and Real Madrid C.F. at Arsenal Stadium on April 08, 2025 in London, England. (Credit: Danehouse/Getty Images)

Manchester United head into a season defining game against Lyon with a number of question marks, including who will start in goal.The Europa League quarter-final tie is evenly poised at 2-2 with United needing to progress in order to keep alive their chances of a trophy and European football next season following an underwhelming campaign.All eyes will be on who manager Ruben Amorim opts to start in goal at Old Trafford with regular first choice keeper Andre Onana omitted from the squad for Sunday's 4-1 defeat at Newcastle.The Cameroon international has made a number of high profile errors this season, including in the first leg against Lyon in France.Turkey’s Altay Bayindir was brought in to make his first league start since joining United in September 2023, and has mainly been back up to Onana during his time at the club.Former Cameroon defender Sebastien Bassong has been giving his view on the situation to World Football’s Delyth Lloyd and George Addo.Photo: A dejected Andre Onana of Manchester Utd after the 2-0 loss during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Manchester United FC at Molineux on December 26, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England. (Credit: CameraSport via Getty Images

Former Ukranian international Yevgeny Levchenko has been auctioning off a number of shirts he's collected throughout his career to aid the ongoing war relief funds in the country.Featuring names like Wayne Rooney, Arjen Robben, Erling Haaland, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Ramos, the auction saw global football fans rally around Levchenko's cause, raising over US$30,000 (£23,000) in the process.World Football's Mani Djazmi explains more.Photo: A selection of shirts previously owned by former Ukranian international Yevgeny Levchenko which were auctioned off to raise money. (Credit: Match Worn Shirt)

Mohamed Salah has signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool.His previous deal was scheduled to run out in the summer and there had been doubts he would stay with the Reds following comments from the 32-year-old during the season as well as speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia.The man known as' the Egyptian King' will now remain in the North West of England until 2027 and have the chance to add to his 243 goals and 109 assists for Liverpool in 394 appearances.So how has the news gone down across the football world? Arabic football expert Mohamed Qoutb and football reporter, John Bennett, tell us how the news has been receive in Salah's native Egypt.Plus, what's the view of former players & managers? Former Glasgow Rangers and Nottingham Forest boss, Mark Warburton, and former DR Congo captain and Match of the Day Africa: Top 10 host Gabriel Zakuani give us the lowdown.Photo - Mohamed Salah of Liverpool signs a new contract extension at Anfield on April 11, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Credit: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Olympique Lyonnais has won 6 of the last 9 Champions League titles and for years dominated women’s football in Europe. Only Barcelona have recently been able to compete.Lyon's success is the vision of club president Jean-Michel Aulas who wanted to create an iconic team, with the best players, but in the case of Aulas he also promised to ensure both male and female players were treated equally. This included the first mixed football training academy.In Olympique Lyonnais: The Champions League trailblazers we find out the story of how the French club raised the standard of women’s football, going behind the scenes with striker and Ballon d’Or winner Ada Hegerberg, Chelsea and England defender Lucy Bronze and France and Lyon captain Wendie Renard who have all witnessed huge success and then change with Europe’s elite catching up. Now South Korean born businesswoman Michele Kang has taken over the the French giants, with big ambitions for the club.Photo: Players of Olympique Lyonnais celebrate after winning during the UEFA Women's Champions League final match between FC Barcelona and Olympique Lyonnais at Juventus Stadium on May 21, 2022 in Turin, Italy. (Credit: Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images)

Chelsea and Senegal striker Nicolas Jackson had a difficult start to life in English football but he's performing well this season and after an injury lay-off he's recently been described in the UK media as "indispensable" to Enzo Maresca's team.So as he returns to full fitness just in time for Chelsea's crucial end of season run-in, World Football's John Bennett, football journalist Rahman Osman and BBC Sport's senior football news reporter Nizaar Kinsella discuss his journey from the Gambia to the Premier League and whether he is now - along with Cole Palmer - the most crucial player in the Chelsea side? Plus, will be he be first choice next season or will Chelsea bring in a new number 9 to replace him?Photo: Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea FC celebrates scoring a goal with Enzo Fernandez during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Chelsea FC at The King Power Stadium on November 23, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

Players will be punished if they stand on the ball during football matches in Brazil, but what led to this controversial law change?The decision by the Brazil Football Federation (CBF) came after Corinthians forward Memphis Depay performed the move in a game against Palmeiras which sparked a mass brawl between both teams.The CBF has announced that players should be shown a yellow card if they stand on the ball with both feet and the opposing team awarded an indirect free-kick.South American football expert Tim Vickery and BBC football reporter John Bennett joins World Football’s Ed Harry to discuss the law change and the reaction in Brazil.Image: Kevin de Bruyne of Manchester City standing on a ball prior tothe UEFA Champions League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Manchester City and F.C. Copenhagen at Etihad Stadium on March 6, 2024 in Manchester, England.(Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

PSG forward Ousmane Dembele has long had a big reputation, but is he now living up to his potential and could that lead to him winning football’s star prize?The France international was once the second-most expensive player in history when he signed for Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund in 2017 in a deal worth £135.5m, before joining Paris St-Germain in 2023 for just £43.5m.After scoring 40 goals in 185 games for Barcelona, Dembele has gone onto become one of Europe’s most in-form forwards, scoring over 30 goals in all competitions in the 2024/25 season, including 21 goals in 26 league games to help PSG lift the Ligue 1 title.So, what changed and could Dembele be rewarded with the Ballon d'Or? European football experts Julien Laurens and Guillem Balagué and former Cameroon defender Sebastien Bassong join World Football’s John Bennett to discuss.Image: Paris Saint-Germain's French forward #10 Ousmane Dembele celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the French L1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Olympique de Marseille (OM) at the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris, on March 16, 2025. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Southampton set the unwanted record of being the earliest team to be relegated in Premier League history after their relegation was confirmed in April 2025.So, what’s it like as a player to be relegated and is the gulf getting bigger between England’s top-flight and the second-tier?Former Premier League defender and current Sierra Leona captain Steven Caulker joins World Football’s Delyth Lloyd and George Addo to discuss.Image: Dejection for Southampton players at the final whistle after relegation was confirmed during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Southampton FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 6, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport/CameraSport via Getty Images)

What do Australia, the US state of Wyoming and the German city of Bielefeld all have in common?They're all locations subject to satirical conspiracy theories that claim they don't exist.The 'Bielefeld conspiracy' remains one of the most popular Internet jokes originating in Germany, but their third-tier football team are well and truly putting them back on the map.Arminia Bielefeld have become the first team outside the top two divisions to knock four Bundesliga sides out of the German Cup in one season on their way to a surprise appearance in the German Cup final.World Football's Delyth Lloyd is joined by football reporter Mani Djazmi, who's been finding out more.Photo: Supporters of Bielefeld cheer their team during the 3. Liga match between Arminia Bielefeld and Erzgebirge Aue at Schueco Arena in Bielefeld, Germany. (Credit: Getty Images for DFB)

As Thomas Muller and Kevin De Bruyne get ready to leave their clubs at the end of the season, how will they be remembered? Thomas Muller has played the most games in the history of Bayern Munich with 743, while he is third on their all-time scorer's list with 247 goals and has won two Champions Leagues and 12 Bundesliga titles among 33 trophies in total with the German giants. German football expert Constantin Eckner joins World Football's Lee James to look back at Muller's legacy.It's also the end of an era for Kevin De Bruyne, who announced that he'll be departing when Manchester City's season concluded.The 33 year old has won 16 trophies since joining City from Wolfsburg in 2015, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023 - scoring 106 goals in 413 appearances in all competitions for City.So how will he be remembered? The former Premier League goalkeeper Brad Friedel and former Tottenham and Ireland defender Stephen Kelly shared their thoughts.Photo: Thomas Mueller of Bayern Muenchen is injured during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and Eintracht Frankfurt at Allianz Arena on February 23, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Credit: Sampics/Getty Images)

World Football’s Isaac Fanin finds out more about how "travel measures" introduced by US President Donald Trump led to Zambia's women's team withdrawing four United States-based players from their squad for a tournament in China.The Football Association of Zambia announced captain and BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya and Grace Chanda would miss the Yongchuan International Tournament.This comes after President Trump signed an executive order to draft a list of countries that will mean a partial or full suspension on visitors from some nations.It is unclear if China is on the proposed list, but non-American residents have experienced increased difficulty in re-entering the country in recent months.Sydney Mungala, communications manager at the Football Association of Zambia, tells World Football about the impact on the team’s preparations and the players and how it should be treated as a “wake up call” to other nations about the changes in the US.Image: Gianni Infantino, president of the Federation International Football Association (FIFA), right, and US President Donald Trump, centre, during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Friday, March 7, 2025. (Photographer: Chris Kleponis/CNP/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Imagine having to wait 50 years for your work to be officially recognised. That’s what happened to the women of St George Women's Soccer team, who represented Australia in the 1975 Asian Ladies Football Confederation tournament held in Hong Kong.For years, their efforts were overlooked by the football authorities in Australia.Now, Football Australia will recognise those players as the "First Matildas" by awarding them cap numbers ahead of Australia's game against South Korea. World Football’s Mani Djazmi tells John Bennet the inside story.Photo: The St George Women's Soccer team, now known as ‘the first Matildas’ at Sydney Airport on August 21, 1975. (Credit: Fairfax Media via Getty Images)

Arminia Bielefeld captain Mael Corboz speaks to World Football’s Mike Williams after the German third-tier side stunned defending champions Bayer Leverkusen to reach the final of the German Cup.Bielefeld won 2-1 to become the first team outside the top two divisions to knock four Bundesliga sides out of the German Cup in one season.The club had already beaten Union Berlin, Freiburg and Werder Bremen before their victory over the reigning Bundesliga champions.Image: Joel Grodowski and teammates of Arminia Bielefeld celebrate victory after the DFB Cup Semi Final between DSC Arminia Bielefeld and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Schueco Arena on April 01, 2025 in Bielefeld, Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)

It’s the battle of the best in the Copa Libertadores – as teams from across South America compete in their version of the Champions League.The past six editions have all been won by Brazilian clubs – and four of those finals have been all Brazilian affairs.So, can anyone stop Brazil’s domination? World Football’s John Bennett is joined by BBC football reporter George Addo and Brazilian football journalist Renata Mendonca to discuss.Image: Players of Botafogo celebrate with the trophy after winning the tournament following the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2024 Final between Atletico Mineiro and Botafogo at Estadio Más Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on November 30, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Marta is a Brazilian phenomenon. A six-time FIFA World Player of the Year, record goal scorer who’s even the hero of her opponents, but where did her love of football begin and what challenges has she faced in her incredible 20 year career? This is the story of Brazil’s global icon. Amongst others, you’ll hear from her former Brazil coach Pia Sundhage, Uefa’s head of women’s football Nadine Kessler, Marta’s Brazil teammate Cristiane and Marta’s first coach in Rio, Helena Pacheco. Marta burst on to the global stage as a 17-year-old at the 2003 World Cup and secured a breakthrough move to Sweden soon after, landing in snow at the airport. It was a world away from her home in Brazil. Yet in the five years in Sweden, Marta would arrive as a young talent and leave as the biggest global star the game has ever seen lighting up the 2007 World Cup; bamboozling the USA defence with her dribbling, speed and flair and one of the best goals on the grandest stage. Now with a cabinet full of medals and trophies, she topped her final appearance in a competitive match for Brazil by winning silver at the Paris Olympics. A fitting finale for Marta - who transformed the women’s game.Image: Marta of Brazil celebrates a penalty during the Women's Football Semi Final between Brazil and Sweden on Day 11 of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games at Maracana Stadium on August 16, 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

This is the story of the day when the USA women’s national team, dubbed the 99ers, became instant stars and how one photograph of match winner Brandi Chastain went on to inspire a nation. 2015 World Cup winner Heather O’Reilly takes you back to the start of the decade to uncover the challenges the women’s game faced during the 1990s with journalist and long-time sport reporter Kelly Whiteside all the way to 10 July 1999 - the day the 99ers won the World Cup 5-4 on penalties against China on home soil in front of record breaking crowds.25 years on from this historic moment, hear from 99ers Joy Fawcett, Mia Hamm, Carla Overbeck, USA goalkeeper Briana Scurry and Brandi Chastain, plus hear from Robert Beck, the Sport Illustrated photographer who captured the most iconic photo in women’s football.Produced by Sophia Hartley for the BBC World ServiceImage: Captain Carla Overbeck #4 of the US Women's Soccer Team raises the World Cup Trophy, as the team celebrates their victory over Team China in the Championship match of the FIFA Women's World Cup at the Rose Bowl on July 10, 1999 in Pasadena, California. Team USA defeated Team China 5-4 in sudden death after two overtimes. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Hear the untold story of how a science teacher from Oslo made a speech that would change the future of women’s football.In 1986, Ellen Wille became the first female to speak at a FIFA Congress and in a room full of men demanded women should have a FIFA World Cup and play football at the Olympics. Then FIFA President Joao Havelange and Vice President Sepp Blatter accepted the challenge, although it did take some time.Within two years FIFA staged a Women’s Invitational Event, and still not ready to call it a FIFA World Cup in 1991, the Women’s FIFA World Championship for Women’s Football for the M&M’s Cup took place. That’s not easy to say!Finally – although it took nine years – in 1995 Sweden hosted the first FIFA Women’s World Cup and, significantly for Ellen, it was her home nation Norway who lifted the trophy.Caroline Barker went to Oslo to track down Ellen Wille. She speaks to former president of the Football Association of Norway, Per Ravn Omdal; current President Lise Klaveness; and Norway’s 1995 World Cup winners Hege Riise and Linda Meladen.Presented by Caroline BarkerProduced by Sophia Hartley for the BBC World ServicePhoto: Ellen Wille speaking to the BBC World Service (Credit: BBC)

John Bennett presents reaction from outside the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan after a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final between hosts Ivory Coast and Nigeria.John gets perspective from both nations as he’s joined by Ivorian football journalist Salia Dramé and Nigerian broadcaster Fisayo Dairo.Friend of the pod George Addo also drops by to give his view on the tournament.

John Bennett is joined by former Cameroon and Tottenham defender Sebastien Bassong to look ahead to the Africa Cup of Nations final between Ivory Coast and Nigeria in Abidjan.We hear from former Arsenal defender Johan Djourou on his mentoring relationship with one of the Ivorian stars of the tournament, Brighton winger Simon Adingra.We also go behind the scenes in the Nigeria camp with their ex media officer Oluwatoyin Ibitoye who is now following the team as a broadcaster.

In a bonus episode, John Bennett is joined by a legend of Ivory Coast football and 2015 Africa Cup of Nations winner Kolo Toure.The former Arsenal and Manchester City defender shares his Afcon memories, including lifting the trophy in 2015.He also assesses the current squad, and looks ahead to the final against Nigeria.

John Bennett is joined by a host of guests to react to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in Ivory Coast. Ivorian football journalist Salia Dramé and Afcon broadcaster Patrick Juillard join John to assess the hosts' 1-0 win over DR Congo which sees them through to the final. We are also joined by former South African captain Dean Furman and Nigerian writer Fisayo Dairo after the Super Eagles beat Bafana Bafana on penalties.

John Bennett is joined by former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani as they look ahead to the semi-finals at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.We hear how Gaby rates the chances of his nation against the hosts Ivory Coast, while the guys assess how Nigeria may manage without star striker Victor Osimhen should he not be fit to face South Africa.We also catch up with pod regular Sebastien Bassong and get his views on the final four, plus we hear from legendary Cameroon goalkeeper Joseph Antoine-Bell, who gives us his assessment of South Africa’s Ronwen Williams following his standout performance in the quarter-finals, saving four penalties against Cape Verde.

Host nation Ivory Coast produced another amazing escape act as Oumar Diakite's 122nd-minute winner sent the 10-man Elephants into the semi-finals at heartbroken Mali's expense. They’ll face DR Congo in the last four. South Africa will take on Nigeria after their penalty shoot-out win against Cape Verde. We hear from the South Africa keeper Ronwen Williams who saved four penalties. Get in touch with your views on the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals and send us a WhatsApp voice note. Tell us your name and where you are from to +44 800 032 0470.

John Bennett is joined by former South Africa captain Dean Furman to assess their 2-1 win on penalties over Cape Verde which saw goalkeeper Ronwen Williams save four spot kicks to see them through to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals.We also discuss a dramatic last gasp victory for hosts Ivory Coast who beat Mali 2-1 thanks to a goal in added time at the end of extra time with Patrick Juillard and George Addo.And we look ahead to the semi finals which take place on Wednesday.Get in touch with your views on the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals and send us a WhatsApp voice note. Tell us your name and where you are from to +44 800 032 0470.

Join John Bennett in Abidjan as Nigeria and DR Congo reach the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.Nigeria beat Angola 1-0, while DR Congo won 3-1 against Guinea.John is joined by African football expert Maher Mezahi to assess whether Nigeria have enough to go on and win it, while former DR Congo captain and friend of the pod Gabriel Zakuani drops by to celebrate his nations victory.We also hear from one of Ivory Coast’s golden generation, the former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue as he looks ahead to their semi versus Mali, while ex South Africa women’s captain Amanda Dlamini gives us the inside track on Bafana Bafana as they prepare to face Cape Verde.Send us your WhatsApp voice notes throughout the tournament on +44 800 032 0470.

John Bennett is joined by Ghanaian broadcaster George Addo after arriving in Abidjan to preview the quarter-final matches at the Africa Cup of Nations in a bonus edition.In an unpredictable tournament, John and George do the unthinkable, and try and predict which way the matches will go. We hear who will progress between Nigeria and Angola and who between Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea will reach the last four. Both games take place on Friday 2 February. Will hosts Ivory Coast be celebrating a final spot or will they be knocked out by Mali? That game is played on Saturday 3 February as well as the match between Cape Verde and South Africa. We want to hear from you, send us your WhatsApp voice notes to +44 0800 032 0870. Tell us your name, where you are from, your question, and we will use a selection during the show.

Mike McCarthy is joined by former South Africa captain Dean Furman and former Cameroon defender Sebastian Bassong to reflect on another big Afcon shock as South Africa eliminate World Cup semi-finalists Morocco in a 2-0 win. Meanwhile Mali see off Burkina Faso 2-1 as the quarter-final line-up is completed. We look ahead to the last eight and ask, who are the favourites now?Throughout the tournament we want to hear from you. You can send us your voice notes via WhatsApp and we will play a selection of them on the show. Send a voice note with your name, where you’re from & your comment to +44 800 032 0470.

John Bennett is joined by former DR Congo captain Gabriel Zakuani as they react to a huge match in the last-16 at the Africa Cup of Nations as hosts Ivory Coast beat holders Senegal 5-4 on penalties after the game had finished 1-1 after extra-time.John and Gaby also discuss Cape Verde’s 1-0 win over Mauritania which sees them progress to a quarter-final match against Guinea.We also hear from former South Africa captain Dean Furman ahead of their game against Morocco on Tuesday.Get in touch with your WhatsApp voice notes on +44 800 032 0470. Tell us your name and where you are from and we will use a selection in the show.