Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

World Cup Group Stage Drama & Knockout Picture

The World Cup group stage concluded with several nations confirming their progression to the knockout rounds, while others saw their campaigns end. England secured their place in the knockouts before their final group match against Panama. Belgium topped Group G thanks to a Leandro Trossard brace in a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand. Meanwhile, Cape Verde made history by becoming the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockout stages, securing second place in Group H after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia, a result that also saw Saudi Arabia eliminated. Spain won Group H with a narrow 1-0 victory over Uruguay, but their performance raised concerns about their readiness for the latter stages of the tournament. Uruguay's defeat confirmed their exit, with coach Marcelo Bielsa's tactics coming under scrutiny.

Iran maintained hope of progressing despite a dramatic last-gasp goal being overturned in their draw against Egypt, a result that leaves their World Cup future uncertain. Coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration, stating his team has been "treated unfairly by the United States" and labeling them an "unlucky team". Argentina, with Lionel Messi set to start on the bench for their final group game against Jordan, will face the unprecedented Cape Verde in the next round. In another significant development, France completed a perfect Group I campaign with a comfortable 4-1 victory over a reserve Norway side, featuring a first-half hat-trick from Ousmane Dembélé 51. Norway's coach cited fatigue as the reason for resting key players, including Erling Haaland. Player News & Transfer Rumors

Manchester United is awaiting news on the extent of midfielder Manuel Ugarte's injury after he was stretchered off during Uruguay's World Cup defeat. In transfer news, Manchester City has joined the race for Lille and Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. Arsenal has reportedly made an initial approach for Newcastle United's Bruno Guimarães, with Newcastle rejecting a £55 million ($73m) offer. Chelsea is also reportedly close to signing Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. AC Milan has appointed Massimo Calvelli as CEO, aiming to instill a "winning culture".

Other Sports & Events

In Formula, Kimi Antonelli completed a strong practice session at the Austrian Grand Prix, topping the timesheets ahead of George Russell. Naomi Osaka's Wimbledon preparations were disrupted by a foot injury, forcing her retirement from the Bad Homburg final. In golf, Ina Yoon extended her lead at the Women's PGA Championship, holding a five-stroke advantage over the field. Luke Humphries successfully defended his US Darts Masters title.

Domestic & Miscellaneous Football News

Chris Gunter returns to Wrexham, the site of his first Wales senior cap, to mentor the next generation of Welsh talent in the U19 Euros. Striker Paul Mullin has mutually terminated his contract and will leave Wrexham after five years with the club. Celtic is reportedly unwilling to meet Hibernian's asking price for midfielder Jair Tavares. Anton Ferdinand has taken his first coaching role at National League side Hornchurch.

In other news, international fans attending the World Cup in the US have expressed frustration with the tipping culture. Former England striker Ian Wright has shared his views on the challenges facing Scottish football. Ben Whittaker is reportedly nearing a fight with Joshua Buatsi following his US debut. Oleksandr Usyk has vacated his heavyweight world titles but has not retired.