Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 2:34 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up

The United States men's national team secured a crucial win against Bosnia-Herzegovina, advancing to the round of 16 for the first time since 2002. Midfielder Malik Tillman was a standout performer, shining in the midfield despite an unfamiliar position. However, the USMNT's victory was tempered by a red card to forward Folarin Balogun, who had opened the scoring, leaving his availability uncertain for the next match against Belgium.

Belgium produced a dramatic comeback to eliminate Senegal in a thrilling extra-time victory. Trailing 2-0, Belgium staged a remarkable rally, with Youri Tielemans scoring a controversial late penalty to seal a 3-2 win and a place in the last. The match was filled with late drama, controversy, and heartbreak for Senegal, marking their remarkable exit from the tournament.

England, powered by a stellar performance from captain Harry Kane, came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and secure their spot in the knockout stage. Kane scored twice, surpassing Pelé's World Cup goal tally, and delivering what is being hailed as his "greatest England moment," rescuing the team when they flirted with disaster. Despite the win, questions persist regarding England's right-back situation, with Djed Spence struggling in the match against DR Congo. England now prepares to face Mexico in the round of, a match that will be heavily influenced by the high altitude of the Estadio Azteca, which coach Thomas Tuchel believes gives Mexico a "huge advantage" due to the stadium.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Moves

Tottenham Hotspur is reportedly set to shatter their transfer record for the second time in short order, agreeing to a deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. In other Premier League moves, Brighton has agreed to a club-record £46 million deal for defender Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham as per reports. Chelsea has also been active, announcing the signing of 21-year-old defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million, marking Xabi Alonso's first acquisition as the club's new manager according to sources. Liverpool has completed the signing of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £60 million, bolstering their defensive options as confirmed by the club.

In Germany, Bayern Munich has secured the signing of Ismael Saibari, a World Cup goalscorer for Morocco, from PSV Eindhoven. New head coach Vincent Kompany was instrumental in convincing Saibari to join the Bavarian giants as the player stated. Meanwhile, Manchester United is facing scrutiny for their quiet transfer window, having missed out on a second midfield target in Mateus Fernandes and yet to make any summer signings raising concerns.

Club Management and Player News

Nottingham Forest is poised to replace head coach Vitor Pereira, who confirmed his "complete surprise" departure, with former Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner reportedly in talks to take the reins as per club sources. In Scotland, Rangers have secured the signing of midfielder Dan Neil from Sunderland on a three-year contract, beating out competition from Southampton according to reports. Elsewhere, Aston Villa has signed Danish striker Amalie Vangsgaard from Juventus, with the player expressing her excitement for the new chapter as she stated.

VAR and Controversial Incidents

The World Cup has seen its share of controversial officiating moments, with FIFA releasing explanations for decisions, including the ruling out of a German goal due to a foul that referees were briefed on prior to the tournament as clarified by FIFA. VAR protocols have been under scrutiny, with questions arising about penalties awarded and fouls missed, such as the incident involving Harry Kane in England's match against DR Congo as debated by analysts.

Miscellaneous Football News

The World Cup has also been marred by a "significant increase" in online racist abuse, according to FIFA's social media protection service as per findings. In a lighter note, the viral "Viking Row" chant by Norway fans has captured attention, adding to the iconic team traditions seen at World Cups as noted by observers. Meanwhile, the transfer market continues to churn with rumors, including interest from PSG, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur in Folarin Balogun as reported by gossip columns.