Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 16, 2026, 8:41 PM ET

World Cup Opening Matches

France opened their campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over Senegal in Group I action, powered by Kylian Mbappé's historic brace that made him France's all-time leading scorer. The 27-year-old forward surpassed Messi in World Cup scoring while reaching 18 goals for his country, though controversy surrounded a non-awarded penalty after Sadio Mane's challenge on Mbappé in the first half. Germany demolished Curaçao 7-1 with Kai Havertz netting twice in their Group A opener, providing the "needed boost" coach Nagelsmann cited after failing to advance from the group stage in the previous tournament. Spain stumbled to a goalless draw against underdog Cape Verde, with Mikel Merino admitting the team is "dealing with the mourning" after the shock result that saw 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozinha make crucial saves to become a social media sensation.

Player Performances & Records

While Mbappé grabbed headlines with his record-breaking performance, Michael Olise topped fan player ratings in France's opener against Senegal, emerging as the people's choice for man of the match despite not finding the scoresheet. Belgium salvaged a draw against Egypt as Romelu Lukaku forced an own-goal equaliser just seconds after entering the match, making an instant impact off the bench. Japan secured a dramatic 2-2 draw with the Netherlands courtesy of Daichi Kamada's 89th-minute equaliser, twice coming from behind to earn a point in Group F. Uruguay earned a late point against Saudi Arabia through Maxi Araujo's stoppage-time goal, despite goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais making several crucial saves that kept his side competitive.

Transfer Market & Squad News

Tottenham Hotspur completed a £52m signing of Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, bolstering their defensive options ahead of the new season. Manchester United set a £40m valuation on Marcus Rashford amid reported interest, though the Red Devils insisted on their asking price rather than accepting lower offers. Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah received the call-up to replace injured Tino Livramento in England's World Cup squad, with Livramento ruled out due to a hamstring problem that will sideline him for the duration. Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali emerged as Tottenham's primary target this summer, though the Magpies are reluctant to sell despite Spurs joining the pursuit alongside other suitors.

Injuries & Visa Controversies

Ghana lost midfielder Thomas Partey for their World Cup opener after a Canadian court dismissed his visa appeal, ruling him ineligible for the match against Panama while he awaits trial on rape charges. Iran departed Los Angeles for Tijuana after coach Amir Ghalenoei criticized their treatment as potentially the "most oppressed team in the whole World Cup," though the State Department later confirmed Torabi's clearance to re-enter the U.S. for the tournament. Bukayo Saka dismissed fitness concerns ahead of England's World Cup opener against Croatia, insisting "I'm ready to go" despite recent injury worries.

Coaching Changes & Appointments

Tunisia made a coaching change just one game into their World Cup campaign, sacking Sabri Lamouchi and appointing Herve Renard to oversee their remaining matches. AC Milan confirmed Ruben Amorim's appointment as head coach on a three-year deal, five months after his dismissal from Manchester United. Wolverhampton Wanderers turned to Cesar Peixoto REF:114