Bayern Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig Called Up for World Cup Test Matches FC Bayern goalkeeper Jonas Urbig has been named in Germany’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier matches against Switzerland and Ghana, according to reports from Sky and BILD. The 22-year-old will make his debut for the senior national team under manager Julian Nagelsmann, who is set to announce the final squad on Thursday. The selection comes as part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup, with the two test matches scheduled for late March. The initial leaks about the squad nominations were shared on Wednesday, revealing that Urbig, alongside Lennart Karl, has been included in the call-up. This marks a significant milestone for the young goalkeeper, who has been part of Bayern’s youth setup and has recently gained attention for his performances in club matches. Nagelsmann’s decision to include Urbig reflects confidence in his readiness to compete at the international level. The announcement follows a period of speculation about the German team’s strategy for the World Cup qualifiers. With the tournament approaching, the national team is focusing on balancing experience with emerging talent. Urbig’s inclusion highlights the squad’s emphasis on developing homegrown players, particularly those with strong performances in the Bundesliga. The two matches against Switzerland and Ghana will serve as crucial tests for the German squad, providing an opportunity to refine tactics and assess player form ahead of the global competition. For Urbig, the call-up represents a major step in his career, offering a platform to showcase his skills on a larger stage. As the World Cup draws closer, the focus will shift to ensuring the team is fully prepared for the challenges ahead.#germany #jonas_urbig #switzerland #julian_nagelsmann #world_cup_qualifier
Switzerland closes airspace for US military planes amid Iran war, cites neutrality Switzerland's government rejected two requests for US reconnaissance planes to cross its airspace on Sunday, citing its longstanding commitment to neutrality in armed conflicts. The decision comes as tensions escalate in the Middle East, with the United States and Iran engaged in a protracted military confrontation. The Swiss Federal Council emphasized that its neutrality law would apply to the ongoing war between the US-Israel alliance and Iran, prompting the rejection of overflight requests linked to the conflict. The government statement clarified that while two military overflight applications tied to the Iran war were denied, three other requests were approved. These included a maintenance flight and two transport aircraft missions. The Swiss authorities stated that their neutrality policy mandates non-participation in armed conflicts and prohibits involvement in military alliances. This stance has led to the refusal of US military aircraft requests, even as the US president, Donald Trump, called on other nations to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz following Iran's threats of retaliation. The rejection of the US reconnaissance flights follows a broader pattern of Switzerland's refusal to engage in the conflict. Since February 28, 2026, when the war between the US-Israel alliance and Iran began, the country has maintained its neutrality, even as the fighting has intensified. The Swiss government reiterated that its legal framework requires non-intervention in hostilities between states, a principle that has guided its actions amid the escalating violence. The conflict has already claimed over 2,000 lives, predominantly in Iran, and has caused the largest-ever disruption to global oil supplies.#us #iran #strait_of_hormuz #us_israel_alliance #switzerland
