Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 11:39 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Heat Up

The FIFA World Cup knockout rounds are underway, with several dramatic encounters and significant transfer news dominating the football landscape. The United States men's national team secured a 2-0 victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina to advance to the Round of 16 for the first time since 2002. However, their triumph was dampened by a red card shown to forward Folarin Balogun, for which the USMNT has no route to appeal, potentially leaving him suspended for their next match against Belgium. Despite the setback, the USMNT has demonstrated a versatile approach to their games, proving capable of adapting to different tactical situations. Christian Pulisic, returning from a calf injury, was named in the starting lineup for the Bosnia match.

Belgium produced a stunning comeback to eliminate Senegal with a 3-2 victory in extra time. After falling behind by two goals, Youri Tielemans scored a controversial penalty in stoppage time to seal the win and a place in the last. The match was filled with late drama and controversy as Senegal experienced a heartbreaking exit. Meanwhile, England relied on Harry Kane's two goals to come from behind and defeat DR Congo 2-1, securing their spot in the next round. Kane's brace propelled him past Pelé's World Cup goal tally, bringing his total to. England will now face Mexico in the Round of, a match that carries significant tactical considerations due to the high altitude of the Azteca Stadium.

Elsewhere in the World Cup, Mexico earned their first knockout win in 40 years by defeating Ecuador 2-0, sending over a million fans into the streets of Mexico City in celebration, though sadly resulting in four fatalities. Kylian Mbappé continued his impressive form, setting a new record for goals in World Cup knockout matches as France comfortably beat Sweden 3-0. Portugal is preparing to honor the memory of Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident a year ago, as they approach the anniversary of his death.

Major Transfer Activity and Player Moves

The transfer market has seen significant activity, with Manchester City reportedly finalizing a British-record deal for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, valued at £116 million. This move makes Anderson the third-most expensive signing in Premier League history. Tottenham Hotspur is also making substantial moves, agreeing to a club-record deal worth up to £100 million to sign midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United sources confirmed. Tonali revealed that Roberto De Zerbi played a "huge role" in facilitating his move to Spurs Tonali revealed.

In other transfer news, Brighton have agreed to a club-record £46 million deal for defender Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham, while also signing Austrian defender Michael Svoboda from Venezia Brighton sign Svoboda. Everton has completed the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough for a fee of £24 million Hackney joins Everton. Meanwhile, Chelsea has announced the signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta for $62 million Chelsea sign Palestra. Bournemouth is in talks to sign Elche striker Alvaro Rodriguez for approximately £18 million, potentially rising to £25 million with add-ons Bournemouth talks.

Player Retirements and Contract News

Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has announced his retirement from playing at the age of. In women's football, England international Lucy Bronze has extended her contract with Chelsea until 2027. Germany forward Nicole Anyomi has joined London City Lionesses on a four-year deal London City Lionesses sign.

Other Football News

In the World Cup, UEFA has clarified that players who cover their mouths in confrontations with opponents will receive red cards. There are also reports of fans facing exorbitant resale prices for World Cup tickets, with some costing a minimum of £2,600 on Fifa's resale site Fans face resale prices. Meanwhile, a nonprofit organization in Kansas City, Pete's Garden, is working to minimize food waste at the World Cup and support families in need. Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced he is taking a break from playing for his country until the current coaching staff is replaced Gueye quits Senegal.