Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 21, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Upsets and Standout Performances

The FIFA World Cup continues to deliver surprises, with Cape Verde claiming another draw against two-time winners Uruguay, securing a 2-2 result and extending their remarkable debut campaign. This latest upset follows their earlier victory, solidifying their status as a team to watch. Meanwhile, Iran has moved top of Group G after a hard-fought 0-0 draw with a 10-man Belgium side, a result coach Amir Ghalenoei described as playing a "beautiful game" under difficult circumstances and one that will be remembered. Belgium's Jérémy Doku was notably absent from the Iran match due to illness but Romelu Lukaku started despite fitness concerns.

Emerging Stars and Tactical Discussions

Spain's World Cup campaign appears to have ignited with the emergence of 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, who scored his first World Cup goal in their decisive 4-0 thrashing of Saudi Arabia. Yamal's performance has led to comparisons with Lionel Messi, though Spain's coach has urged caution while expressing confidence in the young talent. His impact has fundamentally changed the team's dynamic, with Spain looking like a "sharper" unit and rivals now wary. Elsewhere, Iraq's coach pondered unconventional tactics to contain France's Kylian Mbappé, humorously suggesting fielding three goalkeepers as a potential defensive strategy.

Player Fitness and Transfer Rumors

In squad news, Bukayo Saka has returned to England training, providing a fitness boost ahead of their second World Cup fixture against Ghana. Coach Thomas Tuchel is known for his demanding approach, with Ollie Watkins noting that Tuchel is "not afraid to shout at players" to maintain standards during training sessions. Transfer speculation continues to swirl, with reports suggesting Marcus Rashford might still make a move to Barcelona, while Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly entering the race for Crysencio Summerville. Manchester United, however, has expressed no interest in selling Benjamin Sesko. Tottenham Hotspur has seen an offer of around £75 million ($100 for Sandro Tonali rejected by Newcastle United, and Liverpool has turned down a €25 million (£21.7 bid from Inter Milan for midfielder Curtis Jones.

International Cricket Update

England's Test series against New Zealand is set for a decider, with Ben Stokes returning to captain the side for the third Test at Trent Bridge. Stokes and Gus Atkinson were withdrawn from county matches to prepare for their international return following England's heavy defeat. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli is expected to rejoin India's squad for the One Day International series against England in July. In a surprising omission, teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been left out of India's ODI squad for the England series, despite scoring a rapid 94 for India A against Sri Lanka while playing an 11-ball 50.

Other Sporting Headlines

In golf, Wyndham Clark secured his second US Open title at Shinnecock Hills, holding off Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns in a thrilling finish. Rory McIlroy expressed frustration after his major hopes ended with a disappointing weekend display at the same venue. Elsewhere, Francisco Cerundolo won the Queen's title in the longest final in championship history, defeating Tommy Paul in three hours and three minutes. In horse racing, Sky Sports Racing will broadcast Flat action from Brighton and Windsor on Monday, featuring a clash between Mesaafi and Glamorous Breeze at Windsor as part of a busy day's racing. In rugby league, St Helens ended a three-match winless run with a decisive 38-6 victory over Huddersfield in the Betfred Super League.

Tennis and Athletics News

Serena Williams has received the final wild card for the women's singles main draw at Wimbledon, preparing for her Grand Slam return at the age of 44. Jack Draper has found a boost ahead of Wimbledon, with his new coach Andy Murray expressing belief in his game and potential. In athletics, Keely Hodgkinson was visibly upset after withdrawing from the 400m final at the UK Athletics Championships moments before the race due to an unspecified reason.

Record-Breaking Performances and Tournament Notes

Curacao's goalkeeper Eloy Room made a record-equalling 15 saves in their 0-0 draw with Ecuador, earning the island nation its first-ever World Cup point and making history. Germany secured a spot in the knockout phase for the first time in their history thanks to two goals from substitute Deniz Undav in a 2-1 victory. Netherlands delivered a dominant 5-1 performance against Sweden, a victory that broke a tournament record. Japan achieved its biggest margin of victory for an Asian nation in a World Cup match, defeating Tunisia 4-0 and setting new records. The question of whether teams are spying on opponents and how they counter such tactics is a recurring theme in the tournament. Discussions also continue around which players might contend for the Golden Boot as the top goal scorer.

Transfer Market Buzz

Tottenham Hotspur is reportedly exploring options for midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who has expressed a desire to leave the club. Managerless Ajax has parted ways with coach Oscar Garcia following a turbulent season that saw them finish fifth. In a notable rejection, Liverpool has turned down an offer from Inter Milan for Curtis Jones, and Chelsea's Wesley Fofana's future at the club remains uncertain given the team's defensive depth.