Hot football news afternoon 4/6: FIFA issues 'shocking' regulation ahead of World Cup

Coach Mai Đức Chung touches hearts with a kind act, as FIFA ramps up World Cup 2026 security, MU targets a major new star, and a player of Vietnamese descent is thrilled to face Messi.

Coach Mai Đức Chung's unexpected move

Former head coach of the Vietnam women's national team, Mai Đức Chung, continues to move fans by donating 40 million VND to support those in difficult circumstances in Phú Thọ. Notably, 36.5 million VND of that amount came from the bonus he received for being honored as a Labor Hero during the renovation period. Instead of keeping it as a souvenir, the 77-year-old strategist gave the entire sum to share with the community and help develop local women's football.

After a glorious career with 6 SEA Games gold medals, the 2019 AFF Cup title, and a historic ticket to the 2023 World Cup, "Chung the girls" continues to inspire through beautiful actions off the pitch, earning even more respect and admiration from fans.

National First Division wraps up

The 2025/26 National First Division will conclude after 22 rounds, with all key races already decided. Đồng Nai has officially won the championship and secured promotion to V-League, while Bắc Ninh has locked in the runner-up spot to enter the promotion play-off.

On the other end, Thanh Niên TP.HCM has bid farewell to the tournament. Although there is little pressure points-wise, the final round promises excitement with Bắc Ninh's "dress rehearsal" against PVF-CAND Youth, Quảng Ninh potentially ending the season with a home victory, and a clash between new champions Đồng Nai and Xuân Thiện Phú Thọ. This round will also mark the end of a highly eventful season for Vietnam's First Division.

Vietnamese-origin star dreams of facing Messi

Just days before the 2026 World Cup, Vietnamese-origin midfielder Ibrahim Maza delighted fans by publicly expressing his wish to swap jerseys with Messi. The 20-year-old star from Algeria, whose mother is Vietnamese, will make his World Cup debut and is likely to face Argentina in Group J. In a Bundesliga media interview, Maza humorously sent a message: "I hope Messi sees this video and gives me his jersey."

The Bayer Leverkusen player is currently valued at up to 45 million Euros, making him the most expensive Vietnamese-origin footballer in history. After an explosive season with 5 goals and 7 assists, Maza is expected to be Algeria's "gem" and turn his childhood dream of facing his idol into reality.

FIFA issues extremely 'shocking' regulation

Just days before the 2026 World Cup, FIFA along with the three host nations—USA, Canada, and Mexico—has implemented a security regulation considered the strictest in history of the tournament. Accordingly, fans will have to go through multiple layers of checks with smart electronic ticketing systems and security screenings before entering the stadium. Notably, not only weapons, flares, or drones are absolutely banned, but oversized backpacks, glass bottles, metal containers, professional recording equipment, and externally brought alcoholic beverages will also be confiscated.

FIFA also declared a tough stance against banners with political or provocative content. If any prohibited item is found, fans could be denied entry right at the checkpoint.

MU "detonates a new blockbuster"

After getting close to signing Ederson from Atalanta, MU is reportedly shifting focus to another high-profile target, Mateus Fernandes from West Ham. According to journalist Gianluigi Longari, the "Red Devils" will soon send an official offer for the Portuguese midfielder in the coming days. Despite West Ham's recent relegation, the London club remains firm, demanding a fee of up to 80 million pounds for the 22-year-old star. Fernandes is highly rated for his ball control, press resistance, and modern playing style, making him a perfect fit for MU's rebuilding plan.

If the deal goes through, this will be the next "blockbuster" at Old Trafford, reaffirming the club's ambition to return to the title race for the 2026/27 season.

Indonesia "stokes the fire," U19 Vietnam takes the field

With less than two months before the 2026 ASEAN Championship, Indonesian media has already started taunting the Vietnam national team, suggesting that coach Kim Sang-sik's side will struggle to defend their title due to the "curse" of never winning two consecutive times. Nevertheless, Vietnam remains confident with an 8-match winning streak and a leap of 9 places in the FIFA rankings. At the youth level, U19 Vietnam also has an early chance to advance as they face U19 Myanmar at 4:00 PM on June 4th in the Southeast Asian U19 Championship.

Meanwhile, France received great news as Saliba was confirmed fit for the World Cup. Mainoo boldly declared England will win. Liverpool unexpectedly targets PSG center-back Zabarnyi. Additionally, Messi continues to make history, and MU sells Hojlund outright.