Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 25, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Picture Takes Shape

The World Cup knockout picture is becoming clearer, with several nations solidifying their places. South Africa made history by qualifying for the knockout rounds for the first time, achieving this with a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Meanwhile, Mexico cemented a historic run by completing a perfect group stage with a 3-0 win over Czechia. Goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa even made World Cup history by appearing in his sixth tournament, a record for the competition. Co-hosts Canada, however, missed a chance to top their group and will play no further matches in front of their home fans after a 2-1 loss to Switzerland, who claimed top spot in Group B. Bosnia-Herzegovina also kept hopes alive of reaching the knockouts for the first time, likely setting up a tie against a USMNT in the next round.

Scotland's World Cup Fate Hangs in the Balance

Scotland faces an anxious wait to discover if their World Cup campaign will continue following a comprehensive 3-0 defeat to Brazil. Head coach Steve Clarke admitted he believes "we're going home" after the damaging loss, a sentiment echoed by midfielder John McGinn who suspects qualification is "unlikely." The loss to Brazil, inspired by Vinícius Júnior, left the Tartan Army's hopes hanging by a thread, with their passionate band falling silent during the match. Despite the humbling defeat, Scotland may still find themselves in the last, depending on other results.

Transfer Market Buzzes with Activity

The transfer market is heating up as clubs look to strengthen their squads. Arsenal has confirmed the permanent signing of Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen, adding to their defensive options. Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur has reportedly agreed a deal for goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka from Burnley. In midfield, Tottenham are also said to be rivalling Manchester United in the race for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, though West Ham reportedly value him at £80m. Rangers' midfielder Nicolas Raskin has also attracted interest from clubs in Italy and England.

Club Football Fixtures Announced

The upcoming League One and League Two seasons are taking shape with the release of their fixture lists. Newly promoted York City will host Bristol Rovers in their first League Two game after a decade away from the English Football League. Leicester City will begin their League One campaign at Notts County, while Bromley faces Barnsley in their opening match. All opening weekend fixtures across the Championship, League One, and League Two will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

International Management Moves and Contract News

In the dugout, Hearts have appointed Wouter Vrancken as their new head coach, with the Belgian manager of the year seen as McInnes' replacement. Wales manager Craig Bellamy's proposed move to Championship side Burnley has reportedly fallen through, and he will stay with Wales. On the player front, England international Freya Godfrey has signed a new three-year contract with London City Lionesses.

Other Football News

The World Cup is not without its controversies and side stories. Two matches in the final round of group games have already shown flaws in the expanded 48-team format, where teams could potentially play out a draw to qualify. BBC Sport and the Sidemen are teaming up for a World Cup watchalong. Meanwhile, a French footballer, Kenzo Kies, has tragically died at the age of 21 after drowning in the Rhone river. Qatar's Assim Madibo has received a five-match ban for a tackle that broke the leg of Canada's Ismael Koné.

Motor Racing and Tennis Updates

The Austrian Grand Prix is being declared a "heat hazard" amid a prevailing heatwave. McLaren has expressed optimism about their performance at the Austrian Grand Prix, confirming the introduction of an "experimental rear wing" on their MCL40 car, aiming to be "in the fight at the front." In tennis, Jack Draper has advanced to the Eastbourne Open quarter-finals, maintaining his promising form. Emma Raducanu's former coach believes she can win more Grand Slam titles if she prioritizes happiness and ignores critics.

Cricket and Darts News

England has reached the semi-finals of the Women's T20 World Cup after a commanding win over the West Indies. Ben Stokes is reportedly "frustrated and disappointed" regarding a recent curfew saga, but feels more liberated. In darts, Luke Littler has opened up about dealing with hostile crowds, admitting some spectators are "bored" of his success. Humphries