Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 5, 2026, 2:32 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Heat Up

The World Cup knockout stages are underway, with Folarin Balogun available to play for the United States against Belgium after Fifa suspended his one-game ban. Meanwhile, England faces a stern test against Mexico in Mexico City at the intimidating Azteca stadium, a venue steeped in football history where they will be battling both the home crowd and past defeats against the hosts. England's manager is considering tactical adjustments to counter Mexico's strengths and the altitude, potentially employing a low block to break down the hosts as they seek a quarter-final spot. Reece James is doubtful for England due to injury, though Jarell Quansah is fit again to bolster the squad. Mexico's players, however, are adhering to Fifa rules by returning luxury watches gifted by a You Tuber, as expensive presents are prohibited.

Club Signings and Transfer Rumors

Newcastle United has completed the acquisition of winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for £42 million, with reports suggesting the fee could rise to £43 million according to club reporters. The Magpies are also reportedly considering a move for Chelsea's Andrey Santos to address midfield needs, a player also on the radar of other Premier League clubs, including a quartet chasing Bournemouth's Alex Scott in the summer window. Manchester United's pursuit of midfield reinforcements continues, with Scott and Santos appearing high on their list after missing out on other targets as they look to strengthen. Real Madrid has also been active, signing Netherlands full-back Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan on a four-year contract. Brentford is nearing a deal for Burnley forward Jaidon Anthony, with the transfer fee set at £15 million, potentially rising to £17 million with add-ons for the Championship club. In gossip columns, Sassuolo and Bologna are reportedly in talks for Kieron Bowie, while Celtic is linked with striker Tobias Lauritsen as club business continues.

Rugby and Rugby League Action

In rugby union, Scotland has made an impressive start to their Nations Championship campaign, securing a 47-38 away victory over Argentina. However, George Furbank will miss the remainder of England's summer internationals after being withdrawn from the squad to face South Africa due to appendicitis, a blow attributed to poor discipline. Rugby league saw Leeds Rhinos dominate rivals Bradford Bulls at the Magic Weekend, with Ash Handley scoring a hat-trick and contributing two assists in a convincing 50-16 win. Leigh Leopards also bolstered their play-off aspirations with a decisive 24-6 victory over Warrington Wolves, led by David Armstrong's performance during the Magic Weekend. Toulouse Olympique claimed local bragging rights with a resounding 60-18 thrashing of Catalans Dragons in an all-French Magic Weekend fixture in Castres.

Golf and Horse Racing Results

Carolina Chacarra secured her maiden Ladies European Tour title at the Hulencourt Women's Open in Belgium, finishing on 12 under par. In the DP World Tour's BMW International Open, Michael Hollick clinched victory with a sensational eagle on the final hole, while YouTube personality Brad Dalke achieved a credible top-30 finish on the European circuit. In horse racing, Calandagan achieved a remarkable comeback, going from last to first to win the Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud for the second consecutive year in France.

Formula 1 and Boxing Updates

Charles Leclerc secured a chaotic victory at the British Grand Prix for Ferrari, while Kimi Antonelli's championship lead was significantly reduced after a technical issue dropped him out of the points during the race. Lewis Hamilton expressed his hope of collaborating with teammate Leclerc to challenge Antonelli at Silverstone. Christian Horner made his first appearance in the Formula 1 paddock since his departure from Red Bull last year at the British Grand Prix on Sunday. Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali has indicated that efforts are underway to potentially reinstate one of the two cancelled races from earlier in the season onto the 2026 calendar. In boxing, Callum Walsh is preparing for what he describes as a "career best performance" upon his return to Dublin for a fight on August 8th broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Other Sports News

Australia triumphed over England by seven wickets to secure their seventh Women's T20 World Cup title at a packed Lord's in the final match. The scorecard details of Australia's victory are available on Sky Sports. Meanwhile, Morocco is being recognized as World Cup contenders after an unbeaten run of 34 matches, following their victory over Canada to reach the quarter-finals of the tournament. France, after a dominant run, had to overcome Paraguay's aggressive tactics, described as "disgraceful" and "embarrassing" by observers, to advance in the competition. Fans in Cape Verde gave a hero's welcome to their national team players, with tens of thousands gathering at the capital city's airport following their surprising World Cup run. In a peculiar incident, England players reported minimal disruption from Mexico fans attempting to disturb their sleep with fireworks outside their hotel during the World Cup.