Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 30, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Drama and Upsets

The World Cup knockout stage is underway, marked by stunning upsets and dramatic penalty shootouts. Germany, once a powerhouse, suffered a shocking exit after losing to underdogs Paraguay in a penalty shootout Germany dumped out. The defeat, particularly Germany's first-ever shootout loss in the tournament, piles immense pressure on head coach Julian Nagelsmann Nagelsmann: Germany longer. A controversial VAR call that disallowed a potential winning goal for Germany before the shootout has also drawn criticism A joke - VAR. Meanwhile, Morocco secured their place in the last 16 by defeating the Netherlands in a tense penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw Morocco beat Netherlands. Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands just days after the loss of his unborn son, a poignant moment in their departure from the tournament Emotional Gakpo scores.

England's Knockout Aspirations and Tactical Puzzles

England enters the knockout phase with high expectations, though their group stage performances were not consistently brilliant England approach World Cup. Manager Thomas Tuchel faces tactical questions ahead of their Round of 32 clash with DR Congo, particularly regarding the full-back position England disrespected and midfield selection, with Jude Bellingham's deeper role creating a potential headache Merson: Bellingham's deeper. Wayne Rooney has suggested starting Kobbie Mainoo over Elliot Anderson in midfield for the crucial match Pick Mainoo over Anderson. Despite these discussions, some pundits believe "it's coming home" for England in the 2026 World Cup Four reasons why.

Global Reactions and Player Narratives

The World Cup has also generated notable reactions beyond the pitch. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin expressed his happiness at Iran's exit from the tournament, stating he "danced a happy dance" U.S. security chief. Cape Verde's President José Maria Neves boldly declared his belief that his nation "can beat Argentina 1-0" in their upcoming Round of 32 fixture Cape Verde president. On a more personal note, Orlando Gill, a Paraguayan hero, had previously sold his kit to support his family after the premature birth of his son Paraguay hero. Son Heung-min has apologized for South Korea's early exit, vowing to "run to death" for the nation's fans Indescribably hurt Son.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Strategies

The transfer window is active, with several notable moves and rumors circulating. Chicago Fire FC has completed the signing of former Barcelona and Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski Chicago Fire complete. In a significant development for Manchester City, Enzo Maresca has been appointed as Pep Guardiola's successor, a move that the club had planned long-term Why Maresca?. Maresca is reportedly paying compensation to Chelsea for his exit Maresca joins Man City. Elsewhere, Arsenal are reportedly interested in Newcastle United's Bruno Guimarães Arsenal poised, while Liverpool are targeting Yan Diomande, who would prefer a move to Paris Saint-Germain Liverpool target Diomande. Tottenham Hotspur has also secured the signing of Norwegian international goalkeeper Selma Panengstuen Spurs sign Norway keeper.

Player News and Off-Field Developments

Beyond the World Cup, several players and clubs are making headlines. Former Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack's coach reportedly used "mind games" and called her a "psycho" before her death, an inquest has heard Cusack's Sheff Utd coach. The inquest also revealed Cusack feared mental health stigma Sheff Utd's Cusack feared. In a surprising career move, former Newport County head coach Christian Fuchs has made his cricket debut for a village side, even hitting a six into a river Fuchs blows kiss. Real Madrid has donated €1 million ($1. to aid those affected by earthquakes in Venezuela Madrid give $1.1M. In other news, former NFL running back Chris Johnson has revealed his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease/Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Former NFL running back.