Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up

The World Cup knockout stage is underway with several key developments. Germany's head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, has been sacked following the team's disappointing exit from the tournament, and the German Football Association is reportedly seeking talks with Jürgen Klopp to take over the men's national team. In other international news, Switzerland secured their first World Cup knockout win in 88 years, defeating Algeria 2-0 to advance to the round of 16 where they will face either Colombia or Ghana. Meanwhile, Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez announced his retirement from international football after his nation's elimination.

England's Path and Fan Frenzy

England has advanced to the last 16 of the World Cup and is preparing to face Mexico in a match that has generated significant fan interest and ticket price inflation. Tickets originally purchased by England fans for the match against Mexico are reselling for up to £26,000 on Fifa's official resale portal. The BBC is offering a 'Stay Up or Catch Up' option for its live coverage of the game, which kicks off at 1 am UK time, with pubs across the country granted permission to stay open until 5 am. Discussions continue regarding England's optimal starting XI, with options like starting Stones and playing Rice at right-back being debated. Manager Thomas Tuchel's approach to the knockout stages is also under scrutiny, with questions about whether his in-game management can make the difference for England after safely navigating the group stage.

USMNT Faces Challenges Without Balogun

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is preparing for their round-of-16 clash with Belgium without star striker Folarin Balogun, who is controversially suspended. The USMNT has no avenue to appeal Balogun's red card, and he could face an extended ban. The team managed its first knockout win since 2002 by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0, demonstrating an ability to play effectively even in a less conventional style. The absence of Balogun raises questions about how the team will cope offensively against Belgium.

South American Giants and Individual Brilliance

Lionel Messi and Argentina are set to face Cape Verde in a highly anticipated World Cup knockout match, billed as a significant mismatch. Messi's performances continue to be a focal point, with fans eagerly awaiting his impact. Elsewhere, Spain has found its World Cup rhythm, cruising past Austria 3-0 to reach the round of. Barcelona star Lamine Yamal, who was named MVP in the win over Austria, declared "the World Cup starts now" for Spain. Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, survived late scare Croatia to advance, with a controversial VAR decision denying Croatia an equalizer. Portugal has also been paying tribute to former teammate Diogo Jota, using his memory to inspire them in the tournament on the anniversary of his death with a memorial unveiled at Anfield.

Transfer Market Buzzes with Big Deals

The summer transfer window is seeing significant activity, with Manchester City reportedly close to a record-breaking deal for Elliot Anderson. Reports suggest City will sign Anderson from Nottingham Forest for a British-record fee of £116 million, pushing their spending in three years to £824 million. Tottenham Hotspur is also making waves, reportedly agreeing to a deal worth up to £100 million for midfielder Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, which would be their second record transfer in quick succession as the club looks to reinvest. In other transfer news, Arsenal has announced the signing of England midfielder Georgia Stanway on a free transfer from Bayern Munich, with Stanway stating her desire to "win trophies and grow as a player" at her new club. Real Madrid has publicly denied any interest in signing Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández, despite his agent confirming the player is exploring exit options.

Club Management and Player Moves

In managerial changes, Napoli has appointed Massimiliano Allegri as head coach on a three-year contract, succeeding Antonio Conte at the helm. Meanwhile, Vitor Pereira has departed Nottingham Forest, with Oliver Glasner poised to take over. In the Scottish Premiership, Rangers manager Derek McInnes is actively working on further summer signings, having already secured five new players during the transfer window. Ross McCrorie has returned to Rangers, citing McInnes as the primary reason for turning down English offers to rejoin the club.

Other Football News

UEFA has confirmed that players will not be shown red cards for covering their mouths when speaking to opponents in Uefa competitions, a clarification following discussions about player conduct during matches. Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has announced his retirement from playing at the age of 41 after a distinguished career. In a concerning development, an inquest heard that former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack would still be alive if the coach of the women's team had not been employed by the club, with her mother describing the coach as her "nemesis" raising serious questions about the club's practices.