Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama

The United States men's national team secured their first World Cup knockout win since 2002, defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in the Round of 32 USMNT beats Bosnia. Midfielder Malik Tillman delivered a standout performance to help the Americans advance Tillman shines, though their victory was tempered by the second-half red card shown to forward Folarin Balogun Balogun red-carded. Despite the suspension, the USMNT demonstrated a capacity for "ugly" wins and the ability to adapt their tactics, proving they can contend with various opponents USMNT shows it can, and now face Belgium in the next round USA march on.

Belgium produced a stunning comeback to eliminate Senegal with a 3-2 victory in extra time Belgium pull off comeback. Trailing by two goals, Youri Tielemans converted a controversial late penalty to seal the win, completing an incredible rally Tielemans scores winner. The match was filled with late drama and controversy, marking a remarkable exit for Senegal Senegal's remarkable exit. Belgium's resilience could signal a resurgence or a final flourish from their current generation of players Veteran Belgium rage.

England navigated a tricky Round of 32 tie against DR Congo, with captain Harry Kane scoring twice to secure a 2-1 victory Kane rescues England. Kane's brace propelled him past Pelé's World Cup goal tally, bringing his total to 13 Kane passes Pelé, and his match-winning performance was hailed as his greatest moment for England Kane's biggest moment. Despite the win, questions persist about England's defensive frailties, particularly at right-back England's right-back problem. England will now face Mexico in the last, a match complicated by the high-altitude conditions at the Estadio Azteca England vs Mexico. Thomas Tuchel noted the altitude would give Mexico a "huge advantage" Altitude advantage.

Mexico celebrated their first World Cup knockout match win in 40 years, defeating Ecuador 2-0 at a raucous Estadio Azteca Mexico wins first KO. The victory, witnessed by over a million fans in Mexico City, sent a strong message from their home stadium Mexico send message. Tragically, four people died in the ensuing celebrations Four die in celebrations. Meanwhile, France continued their strong form, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to set a new record for World Cup knockout goals and lead his team to a 3-0 victory over Sweden Mbappé breaks record.

African Teams & Other Knockout Contenders

Colombia have successfully navigated their World Cup group and are heading into the knockout stages, a run potentially ignited by a prior humbling defeat to France Colombia reshapped by loss. The focus now shifts to which of Africa's historic nine teams can extend their impressive performances and advance to the last 16 African teams advance.

Player News & Transfer Rumors

Portugal is preparing for an emotional encounter against Croatia as the anniversary of forward Diogo Jota's death nears Portugal honor Jota. The prospect of facing Lionel Messi in a knockout game does not faze Cape Verde defender Roberto Lopes, according to his mother Lopes relishes Messi duel.

In the transfer market, AC Milan are reportedly considering a move for Liverpool center back Virgil van Dijk Milan tracks Van Dijk. Tottenham Hotspur are said to be close to a deal for Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, potentially for a club-record fee of up to £100 million Spurs agree Tonali deal. Scotland goalkeeper Gunn is linked with a move to MLS Gunn linked to MLS. Germany forward Nicole Anyomi has signed a three-year contract with London City Lionesses Anyomi joins London City. Bayern Munich have signed World Cup goalscorer Ismael Saibari from PSV Eindhoven, with head coach Vincent Kompany playing a key role in the decision Bayern sign Saibari. Chelsea have completed the signing of 21-year-old Marco Palestra from Atalanta for a reported £47 million Chelsea sign Palestra. Manchester United have yet to make any signings this summer, missing out on a second midfield target Man Utd's slow market.

Other Football News

There are concerns over a significant increase in online racist abuse at the World Cup Rise in racist abuse. Hundreds of fans have reported World Cup tickets bought on resale site Stub Hub being cancelled at the last minute StubHub tickets cancelled. Italy and Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni is reportedly under investigation for allegedly soliciting sex from a child Bastoni under investigation.

Women's Cricket & Other Sports

Australia awaits a potential clash with England in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final at Lord's Australia awaits England. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has confirmed her return from injury for the semi-final against South Africa Sciver-Brunt returns. England's first T20 international against India was abandoned due to rain England vs India washed out. Wimbledon saw victories for top players including Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff Wimbledon winners. In boxing, Ruby White is targeting Commonwealth Games gold White eyes Commonwealth gold.