How to Overcome Post-World Cup Football Blues: A Guide for Fans

As the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 fades, football enthusiasts are left to navigate the emptiness that follows six weeks of intense competition. This edition of the World Cup was monumental, featuring 48 teams competing in 104 matches, culminating in a staggering total of 308 goals scored. With the tournament now concluded, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of club football across Europe’s major leagues. The buzz surrounding player transfers and managerial changes is already making headlines, setting the stage for an exciting football season ahead. In the coming weeks, national teams will also begin their preparations for upcoming international tournaments, as they vie for qualification spots in various regional and global competitions. Al Jazeera explores several ways fans can fill the gap left by the World Cup, ensuring that the passion for football continues unabated.

In just a week following the World Cup final, the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 will kick off, with Morocco hosting the opening match against Kenya. The Moroccan team, known as the Atlas Lionesses, aims to replicate the success of their male counterparts, who made it to the quarterfinals of the World Cup and claimed the AFCON title in 2025, albeit under contentious circumstances. Defending champions Nigeria will be looking to retain their title, while other strong contenders like Ghana, Zambia, and Malawi are also in the mix. For fans eager to follow the action, Al Jazeera provides a comprehensive guide to WAFCON 2026, ensuring that no football fan misses out on the excitement.