Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 21, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Upsets and Shocks

Cape Verde continued their "magical start" to their first World Cup, securing another draw against two-time winners Uruguay. The African island nation, described as a "fairytale campaign," played to a 2-2 draw in Miami, further solidifying their unexpected presence in the tournament. This remarkable run for Cape Verde has seen them claim draws against favored opponents, defying expectations and capturing the imagination of fans.

Iran's Resilient Performance

Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, believes his team's "unbeaten start to the World Cup" will be talked about for years, particularly given the "disruption they have faced." Despite playing under what he described as "the worst possible conditions," Iran managed a "0-0 draw with Belgium" at SoFi Stadium, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand making seven crucial saves against a 10-man Belgian side. This result propelled Iran to the top of their group, a testament to their battling spirit against a favored opponent. However, reports also emerged of a security concern, with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stating that an individual with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attempted to board the Iran team's flight to Los Angeles raising travel restriction talks.

Spain's Arrival and German Knockout Berth

Spain finally "announced their arrival at the World Cup" with a dominant 4-0 thrashing of Saudi Arabia, showcasing a sharper attacking edge. The emergence of 18-year-old Lamine Yamal has been a significant factor, with the young talent scoring his "first World Cup goal" in his first start and inspiring a more potent Spanish attack. Coach Luis de la Fuente, however, urged caution against comparisons to Lionel Messi, stating it was "a mistake to compare Yamal to Messi" while not confirming his next start. Meanwhile, Germany secured a spot in the knockout stages for the first time in years thanks to a brace from substitute Deniz Undav, who "scored twice after being subbed in" to secure a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast.

African Nations and Historical Performances

Japan produced their "biggest margin of victory for an Asian nation" in World Cup history with a commanding 4-0 win over Tunisia, effectively eliminating them from the tournament after also routing Tunisia. The Netherlands also made a statement, breaking a tournament record in their "dominant 5-1 win over Sweden" that sent a warning message. In a historic achievement for the island nation, Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room "made a record-equalling 15 saves" to help his country earn its first World Cup point by holding heavily favored Ecuador to a 0-0 draw.

European Powerhouses and Emerging Talent

France, already a 2022 finalist, faces a challenge in slowing down Kylian Mbappé, with Iraq's coach humorously suggesting "playing with three keepers" as a potential tactic. Portugal's Francisco Conceição dismissed notions that the team feels obligated to constantly involve Cristiano Ronaldo, stating there is "no obligation to pass the ball to Ronaldo" on the pitch. The Dutch royal family also experienced a notable World Cup day, witnessing "two big results" for their national teams.

England's World Cup Preparations and Squad News

England's preparations for their upcoming World Cup match against Ghana saw Bukayo Saka train separately from the squad as he worked alone, though he was present for training before the Ghana game offering a fitness boost. Coach Thomas Tuchel is known for his demanding approach, with Ollie Watkins noting that Tuchel is "not afraid to shout at players" to maintain training standards. Cooling hoodies were reportedly used by England staff to combat the heat in Kansas City during training sessions.

Transfer Market Rumors and Moves

The transfer window continues to buzz with activity. Tottenham Hotspur has reportedly had an offer of around £80 million ($100 for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali "rejected by Newcastle United" sources confirmed. Liverpool rejected a verbal offer of €25 million (£21.7 from Inter Milan for midfielder Curtis Jones in a move that would have seen him depart Anfield. In other news, RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande is reportedly attracting interest from Paris Saint-Germain, who may "overtake Manchester City" in the race for his signature.

Club Football Shake-ups

Ajax has parted ways with coach Oscar Garcia following a "turbulent season" that saw the club finish fifth. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall is exploring his options away from the club, having "asked to leave Tottenham Hotspur" this summer.

Cricket and Other Sports News

In cricket, Stuart Broad commented that England's heavy defeat to New Zealand at The Oval "shows how much they need Ben Stokes," as the captain prepares to return. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been withdrawn from county matches indicating their imminent return to the England fold. In the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, Australia maintained its winning start with a "comfortable 98-run win over the Netherlands" at the Hampshire Bowl, while defending champions New Zealand edged out Ireland in a thriller keeping their own World Cup hopes alive.

Golf and Tennis Updates

Wyndham Clark secured his second US Open championship, "holding off world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler" and a closing charge from Sam Burns. Clark had to overcome a "hostile home crowd" at Shinnecock Hills. Rory McIlroy expressed frustration as his major hopes ended at the US Open after a disappointing weekend display. In tennis, Corentin Moutet was fined "almost all of his prize money" at Queen's Club following an outburst, and Jack Draper received a significant boost ahead of Wimbledon from his new coach Andy Murray, who "believes in him and his tennis" as preparations continue.

Horse Racing and Other Athletics

Royal Ascot concluded with a star-studded day, headlined by the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes live on Sky Sports Racing. Precise backed up its Irish 1,000 Guineas victory by landing the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot. In athletics, Keely Hodgkinson was visibly upset after withdrawing from the 400m final at the UK Athletics Championships moments before the race.