Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 6, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Drama and Upsets

England has advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals after a dramatic 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. Jude Bellingham delivered a "colossal" performance, earning widespread praise, while the team displayed "heart and belief" to secure the win. Coach Thomas Tuchel lauded the "heroic" effort but also heavily criticized the referees, stating they are "just not good enough" 14. The match was preceded by a brief shelter-in-place order due to an approaching electrical storm. Meanwhile, Norway, spearheaded by a masterful Erling Haaland who now has seven goals in four games, stunned Brazil 2-1 to reach the last eight. Haaland's late brace dumped the aging Brazilian squad out of the tournament, prompting questions about their future direction and potential coaching changes. Neymar emotionally declared his international career over following Brazil's exit. England will now face Norway in the quarter-finals, a matchup that pits them against Haaland's formidable scoring form. Controversy Surrounds Balogun's Availability

A significant controversy has erupted over FIFA's decision to allow USA striker Folarin Balogun to play in their World Cup tie against Belgium, effectively overturning a red card, 35. UEFA has strongly condemned the move, stating FIFA has "crossed a red line" and jeopardized the "integrity of the game". England coach Thomas Tuchel expressed total confusion over the disciplinary process following FIFA's "shock decision". Reports suggest the White House may have been involved in influencing FIFA's stance, leaving lingering questions about the red card system's consistency. Club Football Moves and Speculation

In club news, Oliver Glasner has become Nottingham Forest's fifth head coach in just over a year, replacing the recently sacked Vitor Pereira. Elsewhere, Bologna is reportedly interested in Rangers midfielder Alex Barron, with speculation of a potential swap involving Ross Ferguson. Transfer rumors also indicate Manchester United is contemplating a move for Santos's promising young talent, while Real Madrid is preparing a substantial £188 million bid for Michael Olise. Tottenham is exploring a move for Rafael Leao, and Newcastle is targeting Angelo Stiller.

Other Football Notes

The Scottish League Cup group stages are set to commence on Saturday, with four top-flight clubs kicking off their competitive seasons. Fans can also test their knowledge with quizzes on England's World Cup quarter-final history and famous away victories. Mexico's World Cup run, despite their last-16 exit, brought joy to their community, resonating even in Southern California.

Rugby League and Golf

In rugby league, St Helens head coach Paul Rowley questioned referee Chris Kendall's decisions after a close 16-14 Super League defeat to Wigan Warriors at the Magic Weekend. Wigan emerged victorious in a fierce derby clash. On the golf course, Chris Gotterup secured the John Deere Classic title with a final-round, finishing 20-under-par. Padraig Harrington successfully defended his US Senior Open title for the second consecutive year.

Cricket and Motorsport

England's women's cricket team captain Nat Sciver-Brunt acknowledged they were "outplayed" in the T20 World Cup final, but expressed pride in their runner-up finish to Australia, who secured their seventh title. Nasser Hussain commented that England appeared "too timid" in their defeat. In motorsport, Max Verstappen voiced frustration with his Red Bull car after a crash at the British Grand Prix, describing the recurring fault as "dangerous". Mercedes accepted blame for a mechanical failure that likely cost Kimi Antonelli a victory at the same event.