Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 1, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama

England secured their place in the last 16 of the World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over DR Congo, thanks to a brace from captain Harry Kane. Kane's goals surpassed Pelé's World Cup tally, bringing his total to 13 and further solidifying his status as England's talisman. Despite the win, questions linger over England's right-back position, with Djed Spence struggling in the match as right-backs Quansah and James were sidelined. Coach Thomas Tuchel, however, suggested that high-profile exits from the tournament for teams like Germany and the Netherlands might actually "calm our minds" and prevent overconfidence.

Mexico achieved their first World Cup knockout win in 40 years, defeating Ecuador 2-0 at the Estadio Azteca. The victory, witnessed by a deafening crowd, sends a strong message from "Fortress Azteca", which has become a formidable venue for opponents. The win sets up a potential clash with England in the next round, depending on England's result against DR Congo. Celebrations in Mexico City following the win tragically resulted in four fatalities amidst street gatherings of over a million people.

Kylian Mbappé continued his impressive World Cup form, setting a knockout stage record and scoring twice in France's dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden. Mbappé's performance moves him closer to Lionel Messi's overall tournament goal mark. France's coach, Didier Deschamps, expressed being "touched" by Mbappé's goal celebration, which was dedicated to him. Gary Neville commented that France are "a level above" other teams in the tournament, with Mbappé "on the verge greatness".

Transfer Market Buzz

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to break their transfer record for a second time in short order, having agreed a deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali. This move follows a previous record-breaking acquisition, indicating significant investment from the London club. Elsewhere, Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed that the club's offer for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez remains on the table, with teammate Lamine Yamal stating he would welcome Álvarez "with open arms".

Chelsea have been active, signing 21-year-old Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million. New manager Xabi Alonso faces numerous challenges, including integrating new signings and addressing existing squad issues. In other transfer news, Brighton have agreed a club-record £46 million deal for defender Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham. Manchester United, however, have yet to make any signings this summer, missing out on a second midfield target, Mateus Fernandes.

Club and International Management Moves

Vitor Pereira has confirmed his departure from Nottingham Forest, stating he was taken by "complete surprise and without any warning". Oliver Glasner is reportedly in talks to replace him at the City Ground. Ronald Koeman has resigned as manager of the Netherlands following their World Cup exit, citing "appalling" racist abuse directed at players who missed penalties. Liam Rosenior is nearing a return to management with French club Paris FC.

Player News and Injuries

Brazil's Lucas Paquetá will undergo intensive treatment on a hamstring injury in an effort to play again in the World Cup. Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international duty for the second time, stating he has "no regrets" after Germany's elimination. USMNT star Christian Pulisic has declared himself fit and ready to play the full extent of the team's upcoming World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Other Football News

The World Cup has experienced a "significant increase" in serious online racist abuse, according to Fifa's social media protection service. Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is reportedly under investigation for allegedly soliciting sex from a child. In women's football, Aston Villa have signed Danish striker Amalie Vangsgaard Juventus, and England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt is confirmed to return from injury for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final.