Considered Malaysian news, analysis and opinion.
Austria's coach Ralf Rangnick praised World Cup debutants Jordan following his team's narrow 3-1 victory in their opening match, noting that smaller nations are closing the competitive gap in modern football.
Ghana's coach Carlos Queiroz says his team is ready to face Panama in their World Cup Group L encounter, with or without midfielder Thomas Partey, whose appeal against Canada's entry refusal was being heard in federal court.
South Korea's World Cup squad has refused media duties after reports alleged journalists mocked captain Son Heung-min's military service during training. The Korea Football Association condemned the remarks.