Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Approaches Amidst Upsets and Controversies

The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage is nearing its conclusion, with several surprise results shaping the path to the knockout rounds. Ecuador stunned heavily favored Germany with a 2-1 comeback victory, securing their place in the last-32 and simultaneously denting Scotland's hopes which now hinge on a slim chance as a third-placed team. The South American side's dramatic win, which saw Gonzalo Plata score the decisive goal in the 77th minute, prompted Ecuadorian president Daniel Noboa to declare Friday a public holiday. Meanwhile, underdogs continue to impress, prompting questions about whether their success is due to luck or astute planning according to BBC Sport Football. In another significant result, Turkey restored pride with a thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts USA, with a 98th-minute winner clinching their surprise win.

USMNT and England Face Scrutiny as Knockout Draw Takes Shape

The United States Men's National Team will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32 after suffering a late 3-2 defeat to Turkey, a result that manager Mauricio Pochettino suggested offered lessons for his second-string players as reported by ESPN Soccer. Christian Pulisic, who remained on the bench for the group finale, saw his team finish their group stage with an erratic performance according to ESPN Soccer. England, preparing for their final group game against Panama, are facing selection dilemmas. Reece James and Declan Rice missed penultimate training due to injury concerns, while Gary Neville suggested Morgan Rogers should replace Anthony Gordon in the starting lineup as per Sky Sports Champions League. Former England captain Alan Shearer also advocated for Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford to be given starting roles according to BBC Sport Football.

European Giants and Stars Prepare for Clashes, Transfers Heat Up

The World Cup is also set to feature a marquee matchup between Kylian Mbappé's France and Erling Haaland's Norway, being billed as a new Messi-Ronaldo rivalry BBC Sport Football. Both players have been instrumental for their nations, with Mbappé and Haaland being highlighted as two of the tournament's biggest stars Sky Sports Champions League. Elsewhere, Spain's Mikel Oyarzabal has impressed, with coach Luis de la Fuente calling him "a great among greats" after his brace against Saudi Arabia ESPN Soccer. Meanwhile, transfer rumors continue to circulate, with Arsenal reportedly preparing an offer for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimarães ESPN Soccer. Manchester City have also agreed to a club-record deal worth up to £130 million to sign Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson BBC Sport Football.

Women's Football Sees Major Signings and Season Kicks Off

In women's football, two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has decided to join the London City Lionesses after leaving Barcelona BBC Sport Football. The move comes as the Scottish Women's Premier League prepares for its new season, with champions Hearts set to host Aberdeen on August 16 Sky Sports Champions League. Tottenham have also confirmed the signing of Netherlands midfielder Victoria Pelova from Arsenal BBC Sport Football.

Tennis World Cup and Transfer Rumors

The Wimbledon draw has been made, with Emma Raducanu facing a potential third-round clash against world number one Aryna Sabalenka Sky Sports Champions League. However, Raducanu is now a doubt for the tournament due to a missed practice session Sky Sports Champions League. Tennis legend Chris Evert has undergone surgery for a recurrence of ovarian cancer and will miss Wimbledon Sky Sports Champions League. In other news, Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly close to securing a loan spell at Trabzonspor BBC Sport Football. Arsenal have also finalized a permanent deal for defender Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen BBC Sport Football.

Other Sports News and Events

In other sporting news, the Austrian Grand Prix is set to feature major upgrades from Red Bull Sky Sports Champions League. The US Darts Masters saw Luke Littler advance to the quarter-finals, while Josh Rock was eliminated Sky Sports Champions League. The EFL Trophy draw has been made, with holders Luton Town set to face Peterborough BBC Sport Football. Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold faces charges related to a kidnapping plot and armed robbery Sky Sports Champions League.