Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 4, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama

Morocco secured a historic berth in the World Cup quarterfinals with a commanding 3-0 victory over co-hosts Canada in Houston. Azzedine Ounahi netted a brace, with Soufiane Rahimi adding a third, to seal Canada's elimination. The Atlas Lions' impressive run continues, drawing attention to emerging talents like teenage sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is drawing interest from Europe's top clubs after his performances. Elsewhere, Colombia edged Ghana 1-0 in a tight contest in Arrowhead Stadium, setting up a round of 16 clash with Switzerland.

Argentina, despite a near-disastrous group stage exit against Cape Verde, managed to survive and advance. Lionel Messi acknowledged his team has "many things to correct" after a "nail-biting 3-2 win in extra time" against the island nation. The defending champions now face Norway, with the potential matchup against Erling Haaland a key tactical puzzle for Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is aiming for a sixth World Cup title for the Seleção. Brazil themselves are grappling with questions about their historical World Cup aura, as they prepare for their own round of 16 tie against Norway.

England's journey in the tournament faces significant challenges as they prepare to confront Mexico at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca. Manager Thomas Tuchel is dealing with selection headaches, including a perceived "right-back problem" according to Jamie Carragher, and potential travel chaos and security concerns. Despite these hurdles, Declan Rice is likely available for the match. The Three Lions' quest to replicate the success of the Lionesses and Red Roses is put to the test, with predictions varied on their chances, though some experts still place them among the top contenders. Folarin Balogun's suspension adds another layer of complexity for the USMNT, who must find a way to cope without their star striker against Belgium.

Rugby Union and League Action

In the Nations Championship, South Africa demonstrated their power with a dominant 45-21 victory over England in Johannesburg, running in seven tries. George Furbank has been ruled out of the fixture against the Springboks due to appendicitis, potentially missing the entire summer tour. Meanwhile, an injury-hit Ireland secured a dramatic 33-31 comeback win against Australia in Sydney, marking a thrilling start to the inaugural Nations Championship as highlighted in live coverage. In Rugby League, Leigh Leopards bolstered their play-off aspirations with a convincing 24-6 win over Warrington Wolves at the Magic Weekend, with David Armstrong being a standout performer. Hull KR also emerged victorious in their derby clash, defeating rivals Hull FC 26-12 to kick off the Magic Weekend event.

Motorsport and Tennis Updates

Formula 1 is reportedly exploring the possibility of reinstating a cancelled race to the 2026 calendar. In qualifying for the British Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli secured pole position, but Lewis Hamilton hopes for strong teamwork with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc to "topple" the young driver. Max Verstappen expressed concerns about Red Bull's straight-line speed, stating there is "no point competing" if the issue persists. Antonelli later won the British Grand Prix Sprint, extending his championship lead by passing Hamilton for victory. In tennis, the Williams sisters' Wimbledon doubles campaign has been cut short, with Serena Williams ruled out due to a knee injury, preventing their participation.

Cricket and Football Transfers

England's cricketers are on the cusp of a significant achievement, needing just one more victory to potentially emulate the success of the Lionesses and Red Roses as they aim for a Lord's final. In the second T20 international against India at Old Trafford, 15-year-old Sooryavanshi made his historical debut for India, though Jacob Bethell's unbeaten 76 helped England to a four-wicket win. Meanwhile, the football transfer market remains active. Fenerbahce has completed the signing of Netherlands defender Nathan Ake from Manchester City in a deal potentially worth up to £8.5m. Celtic is reportedly in advanced talks to sign Qarabag forward Camilo Duran, and there is also speculation linking Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to a new one-year deal with the club following his England cap. Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City are reportedly monitoring Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, while Manchester United is rumored to be interested in Crystal Palace's Ismaïla Sarr. Chicago Fire FC defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has attracted interest from Nottingham Forest, though no firm offers have been made.