Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Underway

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is entering its decisive phase with the round of 32 concluding and the field set to be cut to. As the tournament progresses, teams are grappling with significant challenges. The USMNT faces a critical hurdle as sources confirm they cannot appeal Folarin Balogun's red card, leaving them to navigate their round-of-16 clash against Belgium without their suspended star striker without options. Meanwhile, Colombia, after winning their group, are looking to build on momentum that may have been forged by an earlier humbling defeat to France reshaping their campaign. The VAR system has also been under scrutiny, with one review overturning what appeared to be a Croatia equalizer against Portugal, leading to a late drama that kept Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup aspirations alive.

Key Knockout Round Matchups Emerge

The draw for the round of 16 has set up compelling matchups. Spain, inspired by a standout performance from Lamine Yamal, who declared "the World Cup starts now" after being named MVP in their 3-0 victory over Austria back in business, will face Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates secured their spot after a controversial VAR call denied Croatia an equalizer, with the team paying an emotional tribute to former teammate Diogo Jota, who died a year ago honoring Jota. Switzerland also advanced, ending an 88-year knockout stage drought by defeating Algeria securing a win, and will face the winner of a tie between Colombia and Ghana. England, having progressed, are looking to overcome any "mental baggage" as they prepare for their last-16 encounter with Mexico setting up a clash. This match has generated significant public interest, with pubs allowed to stay open until 5 am for the late kick-off staying open late.

VAR and Controversies Shape Early Knockout Games

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology continues to be a talking point in the World Cup's knockout stages. A contentious VAR review ruled out Croatia's potential game-tying goal against Portugal, a decision that sparked debate and ultimately allowed Portugal to advance prolonging Ronaldo's dance. Similar incidents involving Folarin Balogun and Lionel Messi have also drawn attention, with similar tackles resulting in vastly different outcomes sparking controversy. The application of VAR protocols has been questioned, with some reviews leaving teams bewildered misapplied protocols.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Signings

Beyond the World Cup, the summer transfer window is heating up. Manchester United are reportedly considering bids for midfielders Aurelien Tchouameni and Alex Scott midfield targets, and are also reportedly ready to make a move for Brighton's Carlos Baleba ready for move. Arsenal are linked with a significant £130 million move for Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa and Morgan Rogers eyeing signings, and have also secured the signing of Lionesses midfielder Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich signing Stanway. Liverpool center back Virgil van Dijk is reportedly a target for AC Milan tracking Van Dijk. In Scotland, Aberdeen's new head coach Stephen Robinson is assessing his squad for the upcoming season Robinson's Aberdeen, while Rangers have reportedly had a bid rejected for Partizan captain Vanja Dragojević linked with captain.

Women's Football and League Developments

The women's game is also seeing significant activity. Women's Super League newcomers Crystal Palace are set to sign midfielder Sierra Enge from Strasbourg signing Enge. Denmark international defender Janni Thomsen has signed a two-year deal with London City Lionesses signing Thomsen. In the NWSL, USWNT winger Emma Sears has requested a trade from Racing Louisville, with several teams expressing interest requesting trade.

Other Football News and Transfers

Napoli has appointed Massimiliano Allegri as their new head coach on a three-year contract, succeeding Antonio Conte appointing Allegri. Real Madrid have stated they have "no intention" of signing Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea no intention. Bournemouth are in talks to sign Elche striker Alvaro Rodriguez for an initial fee of £21.4 million, potentially rising to £25.7 million with add-ons agreeing deal. Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has announced his retirement from international football following his country's World Cup exit retiring from duty.

Other Sports News

In Formula, Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time in practice at Silverstone ahead of the British Grand Prix fastest Silverstone, and has promised fans he "won't stop until we get there" in pursuit of an eighth world title eighth title promise. F1 Academy is making history with its debut at Silverstone making history. In tennis, Arthur Fery is the last British singles player remaining at Wimbledon after several compatriots were eliminated last Brit standing. England have reached the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup after defeating South Africa reaching final, with Nat Sciver-Brunt playing a starring role Sciver-Brunt stars.