Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Group Stage Climax

The final day of World Cup group stage action is set to deliver high stakes, with several nations battling for knockout stage berths. England have already secured qualification and will face Panama in their final Group L fixture, a match where England will be wary of several key Panamanian players who could cause an upset. Meanwhile, Iran's World Cup future hangs in the balance as they await other results following a dramatic draw against Egypt, with their coach lamenting perceived unfair treatment by the United States and a general sense of being an "unlucky team" due to VAR calls and conditions.

Belgium have clinched top spot in Group G after Leandro Trossard's brace inspired a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand. This performance, while impressive, blows away the cobwebs from what has been a sluggish start to the tournament for the former world number ones. In Group H, Spain secured a narrow 1-0 win against Uruguay, but the victory came at a cost with winger Yeremy Pino suffering a suspected broken collarbone, potentially ruling him out for the remainder of the World Cup. Uruguay's defeat, coupled with their previous error-strewn performances, sees them eliminated, with goalkeeper Fernando Muslera notably substituted at halftime following a first-half blunder that gifted Spain their lead.

Cape Verde's fairy tale run continues into the knockouts, becoming the smallest nation to reach the World Cup round of 32 after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia secured them second place in Group H. Their remarkable progress sets up a potential meeting with Argentina, who may see Lionel Messi start on the bench for their final group match against Jordan. France, already assured of qualification, comfortably beat Norway's reserves 4-1, with Ousmane Dembélé netting a first-half hat-trick, a feat not seen from a French player since 1994. Norway's coach explained resting ten players, including Erling Haaland, was a "no-brainer" due to fatigue.

Team News and Transfer Rumors

Manchester United is closely monitoring the extent of Manuel Ugarte's injury after the midfielder was stretchered off during Uruguay's World Cup defeat Spain. Meanwhile, England's defensive selections remain a point of discussion for coach Thomas Tuchel, who has confirmed Reece James will miss the Panama match due to injury, though Bukayo Saka is reportedly "free of pain" and ready to start. In transfer news, Manchester City are reportedly in a race with Arsenal for Lille and Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. Elsewhere, Arsenal have had a £55 million offer for Newcastle United's Bruno Guimarães rejected. Chelsea are reportedly closing in on Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix.

Club Football and Player News

Celtic face a potential "wake-up call" as they prepare for the new season, with former manager Martin O'Neill sounding a note of caution. The club is also reportedly pursuing Hibs midfielder Dylan Chaiwa, but are unwilling to meet the asking price. In other club news, Paul Mullin is set to depart Wrexham after five years following a mutual contract termination. Anton Ferdinand has taken his first coaching role at National League side Hornchurch. Scottish football's broader challenges are under scrutiny, with former England striker Ian Wright questioning the reasons behind the nation's footballing struggles.

Other Sporting Headlines

In motorsport, Kimi Antonelli continued his strong form in final practice at the Austrian Grand Prix, topping the session ahead of Mercedes teammate George Russell. Naomi Osaka's Wimbledon preparations have been hampered by a foot injury, forcing her retirement from the Bad Homburg final. In darts, Luke Humphries defended his US Darts Masters title with a victory over Luke Littler. Oleksandr Usyk has vacated his world heavyweight titles but has not retired. Ireland secured a historic first-ever victory against India in cricket, winning by 34 runs.