Footballers of African descent are often subjected to racist abuse on and off the pitch.
Germany lose on penalties to Paraguay after a 1-1 draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 last-32 match.
The Socceroos finish second in Group D with four points and are through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 32.
Almiron received the first red card for covering his mouth in the World Cup Group D match against Turkiye.
Turkiye suffered their second successive defeat in North America, bringing an end to their World Cup campaign.
USA face Australia as Brazil seek their first win, while Canada awaits injury news on Ismael Kone and Mexico celebrate.
USA beat Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles as each of the three World Cup cohosts have now staged a game in 2026 edition.
FIFA World Cup cohosts United States begin their campaign against Paraguay, with Donald Trump’s attendance in doubt.
North America’s two other cohosts take centre stage on Friday as Canada and the US begin their FIFA World Cup campaigns.
The 2026 World Cup begins with historic ceremonies across the US, Canada and Mexico, launching a record tournament.
![Paraguay's Julio Enciso celebrates scoring their first goal with Gustavo Gomez [Peter Cziborra/Reuters]](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-06-29T212352Z_382794129_UP1EM6T1N8849_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-WORLDCUP-GER-PRY-1782779424.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
![Paraguay's Matias Galarza celebrates scoring their first goal [Carlos Barria/Reuters]](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/reuters_6a362398-1781932952.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
