Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldinho is set to make a sensational return to competitive football after an 11-year hiatus, joining Italian third-division club Ravenna FC. The 46-year-old football icon will make his debut for the club against Forli on November 15, marking a significant comeback for the former Barcelona and AC Milan star who also serves as a shareholder for the Italian side.

This return represents more than just a nostalgic appearance for the legendary playmaker. Ronaldinho currently sits on 299 career goals, and a single strike for Ravenna would see him reach the prestigious milestone of 300 professional goals. The match, scheduled to take place at the Stadio Bruno Benelli, has already generated immense excitement among football fans worldwide.

A storied career

Ronaldinho, who famously won the 2002 World Cup and the 2005 Ballon d’Or, last played a competitive match in 2015. Throughout his illustrious career, he secured numerous titles, including La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona. His return to the pitch at age 46 highlights his enduring passion for the sport that he once elevated to an art form.

Club officials are currently finalizing preparations for the upcoming derby, anticipating a massive turnout for the Brazilian’s return. Supporters are eager to see if the veteran can still display his signature flair and technical brilliance on the field. This new chapter with Ravenna is expected to be a memorable addition to his already legendary footballing legacy.

FIFA has released the complete schedule, venues, and kick-off times for the 2026 World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The announcement, made on Saturday night, confirms that the tournament will kick off on June 11 (1:00 AM Bangladesh Time) in Mexico City, with the final scheduled for July 19 (1:00 AM Bangladesh Time) in New York-New Jersey.

The opening match of the 48-team tournament will feature hosts Mexico against South Africa in Group ‘A’. The competition spans 16 venues across the three North American nations.

Fixtures for the Title Contenders

Five-time champions Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign on June 14 at 4:00 AM Bangladesh Time against Morocco in New York-New Jersey. Brazil’s subsequent group matches will be played in Philadelphia and Miami.

Meanwhile, current champions Argentina start their title defense on June 17 at 7:00 AM Bangladesh Time against Algeria in Kansas City. Argentina’s remaining two group matches are set for Dallas.

Knockout Stage and Final Venue

The Group Stage concludes on June 26, followed by the newly expanded Round of 32 commencing on June 28. The semifinals will be hosted in Dallas (July 14) and Atlanta (July 15). The showpiece final will be held at the New York-New Jersey venue on July 19.

Sohan, a six-year-old football prodigy from Panchani village in Matlab North of Chandpur, has been granted a scholarship at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan (BKSP), where he will receive advanced training. The young talent, widely known as the “Little Messi” on social media for his exceptional ball control, met the government’s Interim Adviser for Youth and Sports, Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, in Dhaka on Tuesday (18 November).

During the meeting, Sohan shared his dream of becoming a professional footballer and discussed his future plans. Following the discussion, the Sports Adviser wrote on his official Facebook page that Sohan’s abilities and determination at such a young age were remarkable, confirming that arrangements for his BKSP scholarship had already been completed. Sohan was also presented with a football.

Earlier on 10 November, the Sports Adviser publicly announced the scholarship, sparking nationwide interest. Prior to that, BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman had taken responsibility for ensuring Sohan’s education and training environment after the child’s viral football videos drew widespread attention.

Sohan is now preparing for his move to BKSP, supported by his family, local administration, and political leaders.

Sohan’s father, Md. Sohel, said, “This opportunity at BKSP could transform my son’s future. We are grateful to everyone who stood by him.”

Mahmuda Kulsum Monir, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Matlab North, remarked, “Sohan is the pride of our region. His football skills at such a young age are truly extraordinary. The administration will continue supporting him.”