FIFA has officially ruled out three nations from participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to different reasons, with Russia, Congo, and Pakistan all facing suspensions from international football.

Russia’s Continued Ban

The Russian Football Union (RFU) remains banned from both FIFA and UEFA competitions, a sanction that has been in place since the country’s military invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite ongoing appeals, FIFA and UEFA reaffirmed their stance last year, ensuring Russia’s exclusion from all global and European competitions, including the upcoming World Cup. Russian club teams are also barred from competing in UEFA tournaments.

Congo’s Suspension

The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) has been suspended by FIFA due to what has been described as “undue third-party interference” in its operations. FIFA, in coordination with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), conducted investigations in Brazzaville before making the decision. The suspension will only be lifted if several conditions are met, including restoring full control of FECOFOOT’s headquarters to the federation, stopping external interference in financial matters, and allowing independent governance.

Pakistan Also Barred

Pakistan’s national football team will also miss the World Cup after FIFA suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) due to governance issues. The primary reason behind the suspension is the federation’s failure to implement a revised constitution that would ensure transparent and democratic elections. FIFA has made it clear that Pakistan can only be reinstated once the PFF Congress approves the proposed constitutional amendments.

Impact on Qualification

With these suspensions, Congo, which was struggling in Group E of the CAF qualification section, and Pakistan, which had already finished last in Group G of the AFC qualifiers, are now officially ruled out of the tournament.

2026 World Cup Overview

The next FIFA World Cup is set to take place in North America, with the United States hosting the majority of the matches across 11 cities, while Mexico and Canada will each have multiple venues. Defending champions Argentina, who triumphed in Qatar 2022 after a thrilling final against France, will aim to retain their title.

For more updates on global football and Sri Lankan sports, stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV.

Zahira College Colombo finally got their revenge as they triumphed over Alighar National College to lift the Sri Lanka Schools National Championship 2024 title. In a thrilling final, Zahira outclassed the defending champions, controlling 58% of possession and dominating the match to secure a well-deserved victory.

Zahira’s Redemption: A Year in the Making

After falling short in the 2023 final, Zahira College entered the 2024 tournament with a mission—to reclaim their place at the top of Sri Lankan school football. Their tactical superiority and relentless attacking play saw them control possession and dictate the tempo of the final.

Alighar National College, despite being the reigning champions, struggled to create clear-cut chances. They had a few opportunities but failed to capitalize, as Zahira’s defense held firm.

Match Highlights:

⚽ Zahira College controlled 58% possession, showcasing their dominance in midfield.

⚽ Alighar National College had a few chances, but poor finishing cost them dearly.

⚽ Zahira’s attacking play and disciplined defense ensured they avenged last year’s heartbreak.

A New Champion Rises

With this victory, Zahira College Colombo has reaffirmed its status as one of the premier football teams in Sri Lanka’s school football scene. This win marks their return to glory, proving their resilience and determination to bounce back stronger.

What’s Next?

This thrilling final brings an end to another exciting edition of the Sri Lanka Schools National Championship. As teams now look ahead to the next season, Zahira College will enjoy their moment of triumph, while Alighar National College will regroup and come back stronger.

Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV for more updates, match highlights, and exclusive interviews!

#ZahiraCollege #SchoolFootballChampions #SriLankaFootball #RevengeComplete #SriLankanSportsTV

The Sri Lanka Schools National Championship 2024 has reached its most exciting phase as the semi-finalists are now confirmed. The competition has been intense, with top teams battling it out in the Super Eight stage to secure their spot in the final four.

Semi-Final Fixtures

Defending Champions Alighar National College vs. Hameed Al Husseine College

Last Year’s Runners-Up Zahira College vs. St. Joseph’s College (Last Year’s 4th Place Team)

Tournament Recap & Key Highlights

Alighar National College, the defending champions, have once again proven their dominance, finishing at the top of their group. They now face Hameed Al Husseine College, a team that has shown excellent tactical discipline and resilience throughout the tournament.

Zahira College, who finished as runners-up last year, continue to impress with strong performances and now face a determined St. Joseph’s College, a team that has significantly improved since last season and will be looking to cause an upset.

Al Falah College, a newly promoted team to Division 1, has been one of the standout performers this year, proving that they can compete at the highest level despite not making the semi-finals.

Last year third place Darrusalam College unable to proceed to Semi Finals

What to Expect in the Semi-Finals

With four powerhouse teams ready to fight for a spot in the final, fans can expect high-intensity clashes, tactical battles, and unforgettable moments. The road to glory is not easy, and only the two best teams will advance to the grand finale.

Will Alighar National College successfully defend their title, or will we see a new champion emerge? Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV for the latest updates, match previews, and expert analysis.