Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 29, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up

The World Cup knockout stage has commenced with Brazil narrowly surviving a scare against Japan, securing a 2-1 victory thanks to a Gabriel Martinelli stoppage-time winner. The Brazilian side, under manager Carlo Ancelotti, refused to engage in "mind games" ahead of the match, while Japan, despite a spirited performance, was denied a first-ever knockout stage win. In other Round of 32 action, the United States men's national team defender Tim Ream stated his side must "expect the unexpected" in their upcoming encounter against Bosnia-Herzegovina, as they aim to advance. Germany's Julian Nagelsmann described Paraguay as an "uncomfortable" opponent, believing his team will require a "perfect" performance to progress, with Undav getting a start in the crucial fixture.

Transfer Market Buzz and Player Movements

Robert Lewandowski is reportedly finalizing a major move to Chicago Fire FC in MLS, following his departure from Barcelona. The Polish striker's transfer is described as a "big-money move" to the American league. Meanwhile, Barcelona has explored signing England captain Harry Kane, but their initial approach was reportedly dismissed by Bayern Munich, with Kane focused on the World Cup. Despite this interest, Kane is likely to sign a new deal with the German club. In Italy, Nico Paz will remain at Como for another season, following an agreement between Real Madrid, Como, and the player. Barcelona is also in advanced talks with Ajax for the loan of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, as sources indicate a potential move.

Club Management Changes and Player Transfers

Enzo Maresca has been formally announced as the new manager of Manchester City, signing a three-year deal. Chelsea has claimed Maresca will personally pay compensation for his departure, with the club releasing a statement criticizing his "unexpected exit." Gary Neville has labeled Maresca's task of succeeding Pep Guardiola as the "ultimate test," stating the club will accept nothing less than winning. Elsewhere, Liverpool target Yan Diomande appears to prefer a move to PSG, though Liverpool is considering Bradley Barcola as an alternative. Australian international Sam Kerr has completed a move back to Gotham FC in the NWSL, signing a four-year deal after leaving Chelsea.

Player News and World Cup Standings

Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte faces a significant setback, having vowed to "come back stronger" after a serious left knee ligament injury left him at "rock bottom" during the World Cup. In the World Cup, Brazil's Gabriel Martinelli's 96th-minute winner sent Brazil through after a comeback victory against Japan, a result that cruelly denied Japan a historic knockout stage advancement. Spain winger Nico Williams described suffering an injury against Uruguay as "one of the worst days of my life," jeopardizing his World Cup participation. South Korea's coach Hong Myung-Bo resigned following the team's elimination and criticism, with the president calling for a probe into the World Cup loss; the team was eliminated after missing out on a top-eight third-place spot.

Club and League Developments

Bournemouth has rejected an enquiry from Arsenal for midfielder Alex Scott, stating the player is not for sale this summer. Everton is reportedly close to agreeing a deal to sign Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney, a highly-rated midfielder. Burnley's search for a new manager continues after Rob Edwards turned down their approach. In Scotland, Steve Clarke stated it was an "easy decision" to step down as national team head coach following their failure to qualify for the World Cup knockout stages as planned. Republic of Ireland's Nations League fixture with Israel has been moved from Dublin and will now be played Serbia.

Other Football News

Former Chelsea and Spain captain Cesar Azpilicueta was in conversation with Steve Crossman. Juan Mata is set to buy a stake in Australian A-League club Melbourne Victory, though his playing future remains undecided. Former Everton defender Ben Godfrey has joined Rangers on a season-long loan from Atalanta, with an option to make the deal permanent, determined to help the Scottish club achieve its goals. A set of 16-year-old triplets made their historic debut for Guernsey, as the island side secured third place in the Cherry Godfrey Cup after a strong performance.

Tennis and Golf Updates

British star Jack Draper has been ruled out of Wimbledon due to a recurrence of an arm injury, ending his participation. Viktor Hovland triumphed at the Travelers Championship, defeating Scottie Scheffler in a Monday playoff after the world No. 1 flubbed a short putt on the first extra hole. Scheffler had held a one-shot lead in the final round before play was halted due to storms, but he showcased his skill with a clutch putt to force the playoff.

Other Sports News

Former NFL running back Chris Johnson, who played for the Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals, has revealed he has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease/Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, a devastating diagnosis. Frank Sanchez expects to face Britain's unbeaten contender Moses Itauma for the vacant IBF world heavyweight title, anticipating a tough bout. Jose Valenzuela secured a second-round knockout victory over Edwin De Los Santos in their rematch, avenging a previous loss.