Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 25, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Take Shape Amidst Upsets and Strong Performances

The final round of group stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has set the stage for the knockout rounds, with several nations securing their progression while others face anxious waits. South Africa made history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time, finishing second in Group A with a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Morocco, showing glimpses of their potential, believes they have the ingredients to become World Cup winners, while Mexico cemented their first-ever perfect group stage record with a 3-0 win over Czechia, sealing their historic run. Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa made World Cup history by appearing in his sixth tournament, as Mexico topped their group.

In Group C, Brazil secured top spot with a dominant 3-0 victory over Scotland, leaving the Tartan Army's hopes of advancing hanging by a thread. Scotland now faces an anxious wait to learn their fate, with manager Steve Clarke expressing pessimism about their chances of progressing. Uruguay, meanwhile, prepares for a crucial Group H game, with winger Nico Williams declaring his readiness to start against Spain. The expanded 48-team World Cup format has also drawn scrutiny, with some matches in the final group stage presenting scenarios where teams could play out a draw to qualify.

European Club Moves and Transfer Speculation

The transfer market continues to buzz with activity, highlighted by significant moves and ongoing speculation. Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has reportedly reached an agreement with London City Lionesses after a 14-year spell at Barcelona, a move also confirmed by BBC Sport confirming her decision and Sky Sports announcing her choice to join the London club on a free transfer. In other Women's Super League news, Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Netherlands midfielder Victoria Pelova from Arsenal.

Defender Piero Hincapié has made his loan move from Bayer Leverkusen to Arsenal permanent, with Arsenal confirming the option to sign the player. Manchester United are reportedly close to agreeing a fresh loan for goalkeeper André Onana with Trabzonspor, while also being linked with a surprise move for Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn according to ESPN. The club is also reportedly in the race to sign West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, rivaling Tottenham. Chelsea is reportedly stepping up efforts to sign defender Maxence Lacroix from Newcastle, with the club also eyeing other defensive targets as part of a rebuild.

Other Football News and Player Movements

Beyond the major leagues and World Cup, several other football stories have emerged. The EFL Trophy draw has been made, with holders Luton Town drawn against Peterborough, and Premier League U21 sides joining League One and League Two clubs. The Carabao Cup first-round draw saw Leicester City paired with Northampton at home, while West Ham will host Portsmouth as revealed by Sky Sports.

In Scotland, Rangers are reportedly close to re-signing Ross McCrorie from Bristol City, a move also reported by BBC Sport as a done deal. Hearts have appointed Wouter Vrancken as their new head coach, confirming the Belgian after earlier reports suggested they were closing in on the manager. Former England international Aaron Ramsey has been appointed as the new head coach of Oxford United according to Sky Sports.

Rugby Union and Cricket Updates

In rugby union, a Saracens academy player has avoided formal punishment following an incident at a London nightclub. The incident had previously caused concern within English cricket, leading to captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson being stood down. The series-deciding third Test between England and New Zealand saw England stage a mini fightback after a demoralizing first day at Trent Bridge, though the scorecard shows the two teams were tied at 1-1 heading into later stages.

Tennis and Golf Notes

Tennis legend Chris Evert has undergone surgery following a recurrence of her ovarian cancer, and will miss Wimbledon this year. In golf, Rory McIlroy shared his verdict on Royal Birkdale, a venue set to host the Open Championship, as he targets a second Claret Jug.

Formula 1 and Boxing

Formula 1 saw McLaren express optimism about their performance at the Austrian Grand Prix, confirming the introduction of an "experimental rear wing" on their MCL40 car as they look to compete. The Austrian Grand Prix itself was declared a "heat hazard" amid a heatwave according to Sky Sports. In boxing, former IBF super-featherweight world champion Joe Cordina has been charged with assault and threatening a person with an offensive weapon following an incident at a petrol station in Cardiff as reported by Sky Sports.

Other Sports News

In darts, Luke Humphries opened the defence of his US Darts Masters title, while Luke Littler also began his campaign. The PGA Tour is set to introduce promotion and relegation from 2028, a significant shake-up of its structure announced by Sky Sports. In horse racing, Newcastle is set to host an afternoon of racing live on Sky Sports Racing featuring Back In Black and El Matador.

In sports law news, Aston Villa fans received a suspended ban for discriminatory behavior, meaning the club could face a European away game ban next season. Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold has been charged with leading a plot to kidnap and pistol-whip individuals he believed had stolen from him according to Sky Sports. Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo has been given a five-match ban for a challenge that resulted in a broken leg for Canada's Ismael Kone as confirmed by BBC Sport.