#midfielder-rankings
#midfielder-rankings

FC Barcelona

Hansi Flick talks Gerard Martin, Lewandowski, Yamal and more after Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona | Barca Universal

Bitesize Prediction: Real Sociedad vs Levante - 04/04/26 - Soccer News

Real Sociedad aims to secure a win against Levante to strengthen their position for European spots after a recent loss.

2 hours ago

FC Barcelona

How do you rate Marcus Rashford's performance against Atletico Madrid - and should he start in the Champions League?

FC Barcelona

Hansi Flick talks Gerard Martin, Lewandowski, Yamal and more after Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona | Barca Universal

Bitesize Prediction: Real Sociedad vs Levante - 04/04/26 - Soccer News

Real Sociedad aims to secure a win against Levante to strengthen their position for European spots after a recent loss.

Real Madrid need to switch gears ahead of Bayern clash, says Arbeloa - Soccer News

Real Madrid must focus on the upcoming Champions League match against Bayern Munich after a setback in LaLiga.

HT: Real Mallorca 1-0 Real Madrid: Morlanes strikes before the break to put visitors on back foot

Real Madrid trailed Real Mallorca at half-time, risking their title challenge despite dominating the opening period.

LIVE - Mallorca v Real Madrid: Commentary, updates, goals and stats for La Liga clash as Mbappe starts

Real Madrid aims for a strong finish to the season after recent successes, while Mallorca fights to escape the relegation zone.

5 hours ago

Real Madrid need to switch gears ahead of Bayern clash, says Arbeloa - Soccer News

Real Madrid must focus on the upcoming Champions League match against Bayern Munich after a setback in LaLiga.

HT: Real Mallorca 1-0 Real Madrid: Morlanes strikes before the break to put visitors on back foot

Real Madrid trailed Real Mallorca at half-time, risking their title challenge despite dominating the opening period.

LIVE - Mallorca v Real Madrid: Commentary, updates, goals and stats for La Liga clash as Mbappe starts

Real Madrid aims for a strong finish to the season after recent successes, while Mallorca fights to escape the relegation zone.

more#real-madrid

#champions-league

Bayern Munich confident ahead of Real Madrid heavyweight clash

Bayern Munich faces Real Madrid in a highly anticipated Champions League match after a recent victory, while Madrid seeks redemption after a loss.

Real Madrid are fired up to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League

Bayern Munich faces Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, with both teams coming off contrasting performances.

Kylian Mbappe confident that Real Madrid can handle Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are set for a crucial Champions League quarterfinal clash, with both teams confident in their chances to advance.

Bayern Munich confident ahead of Real Madrid heavyweight clash

Bayern Munich faces Real Madrid in a highly anticipated Champions League match after a recent victory, while Madrid seeks redemption after a loss.

Real Madrid are fired up to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League

Bayern Munich faces Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, with both teams coming off contrasting performances.

Kylian Mbappe confident that Real Madrid can handle Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are set for a crucial Champions League quarterfinal clash, with both teams confident in their chances to advance.

more#champions-league

43 minutes ago

Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford reads Mohamed Salah penalty shot (Video) - Soccer News

Mohamed Salah's recent penalty performance reflects his lack of form and Liverpool's struggles this season.

Hjulmand hopes winning nine-goal thriller will boost Leverkusen in top-four hunt - Soccer News

Kasper Hjulmand aims for Bayer Leverkusen's victory over Wolfsburg to boost their confidence for the remainder of the season.

Hjulmand urges Leverkusen to attack the table in Bundesliga run-in - Soccer News

Bayer Leverkusen aims for Champions League qualification by attacking the table in remaining matches.

53 minutes ago

Hjulmand hopes winning nine-goal thriller will boost Leverkusen in top-four hunt - Soccer News

Kasper Hjulmand aims for Bayer Leverkusen's victory over Wolfsburg to boost their confidence for the remainder of the season.

Hjulmand urges Leverkusen to attack the table in Bundesliga run-in - Soccer News

Bayer Leverkusen aims for Champions League qualification by attacking the table in remaining matches.

more#bayer-leverkusen

AC Milan

1 hour ago

GdS: Similar systems, different approaches - Conte and Allegri's tactics compared

Allegri emphasizes attacking freedom for forwards, while Conte focuses on teaching structured habits and tactical discipline.

6 hours ago

Man United ready to sell Manuel Ugarte this summer; Juventus lead 40m transfer race

Manchester United is open to selling Manuel Ugarte, who seeks a move after struggling to fit into the team's system.

Miami Marlins

23 hours ago

Inter Miami v Austin: Line-ups, stats and preview

Inter Miami inaugurates Nu Stadium against Austin, aiming for victory as they sit three points off the top of the MLS table.

#liverpool

Liverpool eyeing summer move for Nicolo Barella

Liverpool is interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan, potentially offering players in exchange to lower the asking price.

Liverpool eye move for Pierre Kalulu

Liverpool aims to strengthen their defense by pursuing Pierre Kalulu from Juventus as they prepare for potential departures of key defenders.

Liverpool eyeing summer move for Nicolo Barella

Liverpool is interested in signing Nicolo Barella from Inter Milan, potentially offering players in exchange to lower the asking price.

Liverpool eye move for Pierre Kalulu

Liverpool aims to strengthen their defense by pursuing Pierre Kalulu from Juventus as they prepare for potential departures of key defenders.

Rosenior glad to focus on football as Chelsea score seven after tough period - Soccer News

Chelsea secured a 7-0 victory over Port Vale, marking a significant achievement in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

20 hours ago

Rosenior demands strong end to the season after Chelsea hammer Port Vale to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Chelsea's 7-0 victory over Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter-finals aims to boost their performance for the remainder of the season.

18 hours ago

Rosenior glad to focus on football as Chelsea score seven after tough period - Soccer News

Chelsea secured a 7-0 victory over Port Vale, marking a significant achievement in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

20 hours ago

Rosenior demands strong end to the season after Chelsea hammer Port Vale to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Chelsea's 7-0 victory over Port Vale in the FA Cup quarter-finals aims to boost their performance for the remainder of the season.

Chivu unfazed by Inters poor form ahead of Serie A run-in - Soccer News

Cristian Chivu remains confident in Inter despite recent poor form and emphasizes the importance of character and team values.

#premier-league

fromBBC

English Premier League

More than the Score - Have set pieces taken over the Premier League? - BBC Sounds

Arsenal

Is success crucial? BBC Sport experts pick their player of the season

Arsenal's Declan Rice and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes are top contenders for the Premier League Player of the Season award.

Premier League without set-piece goals: What would the table look like?

The Premier League has experienced a significant decrease in goals from open play, with a 20% drop this season compared to previous years.

2 weeks ago

All your FPL stats and Premier League team news in one place

Key injury updates and Fantasy Premier League statistics are provided ahead of the upcoming fixtures.

Reranking the MVP for each of the top Premier League clubs

The Premier League MVP rankings assess the most crucial players at top clubs based on ability and tactical importance.

1 month ago

Soccer (FIFA)

The Premier League's best and worst players at different skills

fromBBC

More than the Score - Have set pieces taken over the Premier League? - BBC Sounds

Long throws and set pieces have become central to Premier League tactics, influencing game dynamics and strategies.

Arsenal

Is success crucial? BBC Sport experts pick their player of the season

Arsenal's Declan Rice and Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes are top contenders for the Premier League Player of the Season award.

Premier League without set-piece goals: What would the table look like?

The Premier League has experienced a significant decrease in goals from open play, with a 20% drop this season compared to previous years.

2 weeks ago

All your FPL stats and Premier League team news in one place

Key injury updates and Fantasy Premier League statistics are provided ahead of the upcoming fixtures.

Reranking the MVP for each of the top Premier League clubs

The Premier League MVP rankings assess the most crucial players at top clubs based on ability and tactical importance.

1 month ago

Soccer (FIFA)

The Premier League's best and worst players at different skills

more#premier-league

Luis Enrique acknowledges importance of PSGs victory over Toulouse - Soccer News

I'm very happy. We knew how important these three points were, especially as this match came after the international break. It's difficult to manage because we had a lot of players involved, most of them had travelled and played matches. It was the moment to win these three points.

Paris food

Germany news

Lukas Podolski on Denis Undav's tremedous form

Denis Undav's performance raises questions about his fit in the German national team under Julian Nagelsmann.

From shame to pride - inside Europe's most exciting league

The table is so tight that the title race and the fight to survive relegation looks like going to the wire, with teams battling for Europe still also looking over their shoulder at the relegation zone.

Europe politics

National Hockey League

Keepers, sleepers and more: Top 10 fantasy hockey notes for next season

Jeremy Swayman and Jakub Dobes are emerging as top goaltending options for fantasy hockey managers.

Atlanta Falcons

5 days ago

2026 fantasy football rankings: Profiling the top 35 QBs

Josh Allen remains an elite fantasy quarterback despite lower passing volume, while Lamar Jackson aims for a rebound after an injury-plagued season.

#bayern-munich

2 hours ago

'Real Madrid will quickly find themselves in trouble' - Warning given to LaLiga powerhouse

Bayern Munich possesses an exceptional offensive attack, posing a significant threat to Real Madrid's defense.

Joshua Kimmich fully expects Harry Kane to play Tuesday against Real Madrid

Bayern Munich overcame a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 against Freiburg, highlighting their resilience ahead of a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid.

Tom Bischof knows Bayern Munich must be better against Real Madrid

Lennart Karl's late winner boosts Bayern Munich's morale despite performance concerns ahead of their match against Real Madrid.

1 hour ago

'A beast knows when to strike' - Bayern Munich exec talks Real Madrid grudge match

Bayern Munich's Max Eberl acknowledges the challenge posed by Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League match.

SC Freiburg reeling after shocking collapse vs. Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich staged a dramatic comeback to defeat SC Freiburg 3-2 after trailing 2-0 with only 10 minutes left in the match.

23 hours ago

Five Observations from Bayern Munich's jaw-dropping 3-2 comeback against SC Freiburg

Bayern Munich staged a remarkable comeback against Freiburg despite a challenging performance and focus on an upcoming Champions League match.

2 hours ago

'Real Madrid will quickly find themselves in trouble' - Warning given to LaLiga powerhouse

Bayern Munich possesses an exceptional offensive attack, posing a significant threat to Real Madrid's defense.

Joshua Kimmich fully expects Harry Kane to play Tuesday against Real Madrid

Bayern Munich overcame a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 against Freiburg, highlighting their resilience ahead of a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid.

Tom Bischof knows Bayern Munich must be better against Real Madrid

Lennart Karl's late winner boosts Bayern Munich's morale despite performance concerns ahead of their match against Real Madrid.

1 hour ago

'A beast knows when to strike' - Bayern Munich exec talks Real Madrid grudge match

Bayern Munich's Max Eberl acknowledges the challenge posed by Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League match.

SC Freiburg reeling after shocking collapse vs. Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich staged a dramatic comeback to defeat SC Freiburg 3-2 after trailing 2-0 with only 10 minutes left in the match.

23 hours ago

Five Observations from Bayern Munich's jaw-dropping 3-2 comeback against SC Freiburg

Bayern Munich staged a remarkable comeback against Freiburg despite a challenging performance and focus on an upcoming Champions League match.

more#bayern-munich

46 minutes ago

Aston Villa lead race for Yanis Benchaouch with five-year offer submitted

Aston Villa has made a significant offer for goalkeeper Yanis Benchaouch, facing competition from multiple clubs including Al Gharafa and Premier League rivals.

AC Milan

CorSport: A mission in Wales - Milan and Roma battling for latest RB Salzburg star

AC Milan is actively pursuing young talent, including 18-year-old Kerim Alajbegovic from Red Bull Salzburg, to strengthen their squad for the future.

Man United want to sign Nico Schlotterbeck

Nico Schlotterbeck is a target for Manchester United and Liverpool, with a potential summer transfer if he does not renew his contract with Dortmund.

fromwww.fourfourtwo.com

When a player costs that much, it can go to their head. His desire to give everything is what gives other players like Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer confidence' Former Chelsea man explains how Moises Caicedo justifies his 115m price tag

Moises Caicedo's record transfer to Chelsea for £115m has proven valuable, showcasing his consistent performance and potential despite the hefty fee.

Liverpool ready summer move for Malik Tillman

Liverpool is interested in signing Malik Tillman for 60 million to enhance creativity and goals from midfield.

Pep Guardiola: Man City wouldn't block Rodri from Real Madrid move

Pep Guardiola will not prevent Rodri from joining Real Madrid if he desires, emphasizing player happiness over club loyalty.

#barcelona

3 hours ago

FC Barcelona

Marcus Rashford and Barcelona show a blueprint for winning without Raphinha

FC Barcelona

Three takeaways from Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona | La Liga MD30 | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Barcelona receive mixed news on Marc Bernal and Ronald Araujo ahead of Champions League tie

FC Barcelona

Worst in La Liga - Key stat highlights Barcelona forward's struggles in front of goal | Barca Universal

18 hours ago

FC Barcelona

Yamal 9, Pedri 9 | Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona: Player Ratings | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Which Atletico Madrid player do Barcelona need to be most wary of in the upcoming La Liga and Champions League matches?

3 hours ago

FC Barcelona

Marcus Rashford and Barcelona show a blueprint for winning without Raphinha

FC Barcelona

Three takeaways from Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona | La Liga MD30 | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Barcelona receive mixed news on Marc Bernal and Ronald Araujo ahead of Champions League tie

FC Barcelona

Worst in La Liga - Key stat highlights Barcelona forward's struggles in front of goal | Barca Universal

18 hours ago

FC Barcelona

Yamal 9, Pedri 9 | Atletico Madrid 1-2 Barcelona: Player Ratings | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Which Atletico Madrid player do Barcelona need to be most wary of in the upcoming La Liga and Champions League matches?

Chelsea's Liam Rosenior: Enzo Fernandez comments 'not what people think'

Liam Rosenior addresses Enzo Fernández's future amid speculation and criticism from the player's agent, emphasizing focus on football and team unity.

A line was crossed - Rosenior drops Fernandez for next two Chelsea games - Soccer News

Enzo Fernandez will miss Chelsea's next two games due to comments about his future, but he still has a future at the club.

Chelsea's Liam Rosenior: Enzo Fernandez comments 'not what people think'

Liam Rosenior addresses Enzo Fernández's future amid speculation and criticism from the player's agent, emphasizing focus on football and team unity.

A line was crossed - Rosenior drops Fernandez for next two Chelsea games - Soccer News

Enzo Fernandez will miss Chelsea's next two games due to comments about his future, but he still has a future at the club.

more#enzo-fernandez

Frontline questions and a solid base: How Milan should lineup against Napoli

Milan's upcoming match against Napoli is crucial for their Scudetto and Champions League aspirations. Allegri must ensure his XI can secure a win under pressure.

AC Milan

#rodri

fromwww.theguardian.com

Pep Guardiola will not stand in Rodri's way if he wants to join Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola supports Rodri's potential departure to Real Madrid but believes he will remain at Manchester City beyond this summer.

Real Madrid

"My information..." - Fabrizio Romano dives into complicated Man City & Real Madrid transfer saga

Real Madrid

Real Madrid consider Enzo Fernandez and Adam Wharton as Rodri alternatives - Soccer News

fromwww.theguardian.com

Pep Guardiola will not stand in Rodri's way if he wants to join Real Madrid

Pep Guardiola supports Rodri's potential departure to Real Madrid but believes he will remain at Manchester City beyond this summer.

"My information..." - Fabrizio Romano dives into complicated Man City & Real Madrid transfer saga

Rodri is considering a move to Real Madrid while Manchester City has offered him a new contract to stay.

Real Madrid consider Enzo Fernandez and Adam Wharton as Rodri alternatives - Soccer News

Rodri is open to joining Real Madrid, prompting the club to consider him as a primary target for their midfield needs this summer.

more#rodri

Man Utd & Liverpool ready serious transfer move for star whose value has doubled in two years

Manchester United and Liverpool are both interested in signing Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram, who has significantly increased in value since joining the club.

#manchester-city

Man City v Liverpool: Line-ups, stats and preview

Manchester City faces Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals after recent EFL Cup success, aiming for a record eighth consecutive semi-final.

Prediction: Manchester City vs Liverpool - Soccer News

Manchester City aims for a record eighth consecutive FA Cup semi-final appearance against Liverpool after recent EFL Cup success.

Man City v Liverpool: Line-ups, stats and preview

Manchester City faces Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals after recent EFL Cup success, aiming for a record eighth consecutive semi-final.

#uefa-womens-champions-league

Prediction: Manchester City vs Liverpool - Soccer News

Manchester City aims for a record eighth consecutive FA Cup semi-final appearance against Liverpool after recent EFL Cup success.

more#manchester-city

UWCL talking points: Is Chelsea's season a failure? Madrid capitulate at Barcelona

Chelsea's UWCL exit was due to missed opportunities and a costly disallowed goal, not just VAR decisions.

fromFC Bayern Women

Bayern Munich

Spielbericht FC Bayern Frauen - Manchester United

UWCL talking points: Is Chelsea's season a failure? Madrid capitulate at Barcelona

Chelsea's UWCL exit was due to missed opportunities and a costly disallowed goal, not just VAR decisions.

fromFC Bayern Women

more#uefa-womens-champions-league

Bayern Munich

Spielbericht FC Bayern Frauen - Manchester United

#england-football

Three top-20 teams played, no wins. Should Tuchel be concerned?

England struggles against top-ranked teams, raising concerns ahead of the World Cup despite strong qualification performance.

Predicting England's 2026 World Cup squad: Who will Thomas Tuchel take, who's on the bubble?

England's men's team struggled in final matches before World Cup selection, with key players missing and disappointing performances.

Three top-20 teams played, no wins. Should Tuchel be concerned?

England struggles against top-ranked teams, raising concerns ahead of the World Cup despite strong qualification performance.

Predicting England's 2026 World Cup squad: Who will Thomas Tuchel take, who's on the bubble?

England's men's team struggled in final matches before World Cup selection, with key players missing and disappointing performances.

more#england-football

AC Milan

Pochettino backs Pulisic to 'start scoring again' but snubs him from top 100 list

Christian Pulisic is struggling to score, but Mauricio Pochettino believes he will regain form despite the team's overall challenges.

12 hours ago

Why Marc Bernal was taken off for Barcelona against Atletico

Marc Bernal suffered an ankle injury during a match against Atletico, raising concerns for Barcelona's upcoming Champions League game.

Bayern Munich's Harry Kane injury doubt for Real Madrid clash - Vincent Kompany

Harry Kane's ankle injury may affect his availability for Bayern Munich's Champions League match against Real Madrid.

England's Thomas Tuchel talks the pain of missing Harry Kane

Harry Kane's absence creates a significant void for both Bayern Munich and the England national team.

Bayern Munich star Harry Kane's ankle injury raises questions ahead of Real Madrid blockbuster

Harry Kane suffered an ankle injury during training and will miss the match against SC Freiburg but may return for the game against Real Madrid.

Bayern Munich's Harry Kane injury doubt for Real Madrid clash - Vincent Kompany

Harry Kane's ankle injury may affect his availability for Bayern Munich's Champions League match against Real Madrid.

England's Thomas Tuchel talks the pain of missing Harry Kane

Harry Kane's absence creates a significant void for both Bayern Munich and the England national team.

Bayern Munich star Harry Kane's ankle injury raises questions ahead of Real Madrid blockbuster

Harry Kane suffered an ankle injury during training and will miss the match against SC Freiburg but may return for the game against Real Madrid.

Should Chelsea begin planning for life after Enzo Fernandez? - Soccer News

Chelsea faces mounting pressure after recent poor performances and controversies surrounding key player Enzo Fernandez's future.

Liverpool, Man United and Tottenham want Evan Ndicka

Evan Ndicka is a highly sought-after defender, with top European clubs monitoring his potential transfer amid Roma's financial pressures.

fromCF Bayern Insider

3 hours ago

Arsenal boost: Bayern Munich stay out of Christian Kofane race

Arsenal aims to strengthen their attack by targeting 19-year-old striker Christian Kofane, amid interest from Bayern Munich.

Chelsea failed with January move for Lucas Bergvall

Chelsea and Newcastle United showed interest in signing Lucas Bergvall from Tottenham Hotspur, but their offers were rejected.

6 days ago

USA v Portugal: Line-ups, stats and preview for international friendly

USA aims to recover from a loss against Belgium by facing Portugal in their final match before the World Cup.

fromIndependent

Philly McMahon: 31 shots from 32 possessions - the staggering stat that proves Donegal have moved into pole position

Donegal had 32 possessions in the game. They got off 31 shots.

Soccer (FIFA)

Barcelona keeping tabs on exciting RB Leipzig winger but move complicated by two factors | Barca Universal

Barcelona is interested in Yann Diomande but a transfer is currently unrealistic due to financial constraints and priority on other positions.

Player strain, brain health and cyber threats high on FA priorities

The ongoing discussions regarding future structural changes to the game, such as the introduction of new tournaments (eg. Fifa Club World Cup), further intensify this challenge. These changes have the potential to significantly reduce the downtime available to elite players, affecting their recovery and overall well-being.

Soccer (FIFA)

'I compare him to Kevin De Bruyne' - Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany says Michael Olise is already as good as Manchester City's best ever player

Michael Olise is a standout player at Bayern Munich, drawing comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne for his exceptional skills and mindset.

2 weeks ago

The 'anti-Lamine' backed to be one of best in world

Lewis Hall, Newcastle's 21-year-old left-back, has rapidly developed into a world-class defender capable of containing elite attackers like Barcelona's Lamine Yamal in Champions League competition.

Who uses academy players most in Premier League - and does it matter?

Max Dowman's goal for Arsenal highlights the importance of home-grown players in football and their impact on club success and finances.

#fc-barcelona

FC Barcelona

Ferran, Rashford start in a 4-2-3-1 - How Barcelona can line up against Atletico Madrid | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Flick talks Raphinha, Lamine, De Jong, Lewandowski, Rashford ahead of Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Ferran, Rashford start in a 4-2-3-1 - How Barcelona can line up against Atletico Madrid | Barca Universal

FC Barcelona

Flick talks Raphinha, Lamine, De Jong, Lewandowski, Rashford ahead of Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona | Barca Universal

Diego Simeone reveals who he thinks Barcelona's most dangerous player is

Diego Simeone emphasizes squad fitness and Barcelona's collective pressure ahead of three matches in ten days.

Managing in an international break - and what to do when your star player does not come home

International breaks can be both an opportunity and a challenge for managers, impacting player performance and recovery.

Atletico Madrid v Barcelona: Line-ups, stats and preview

Atletico Madrid can influence the La Liga title race by facing Barcelona in upcoming matches.

fromwww.theguardian.com

Has a football club won the title with a better goal difference than points tally? | The Knowledge

Bayern Munich's goal difference of +72 is notable, but Hearts' 1957-58 season had a higher GDP of +12 despite fewer points.

Leipzig set Diomande price amid Premier League interest - Soccer News

RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande is attracting interest from top European clubs, with a transfer price set at €100 million.

Did Julian Nagelsmann come to his senses about World Cup nominations?

Julian Nagelsmann has finalized nine guaranteed starters for the national team, excluding Sané and Goretzka, amid criticism over his personnel decisions.

Spain 0-0 Egypt: European champions held after profligate friendly showing - Soccer News

Spain failed to convert numerous chances, resulting in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Egypt despite dominating the match statistically.

5 days ago

Match Awards from Germany's tight win over Ghana

Germany's victory over Ghana boosts confidence ahead of the FIFA World Cup.