Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 23, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Take Shape

Erling Haaland netted two goals to propel Norway to a 3-2 victory over Senegal, securing their passage to the knockout stages of the World Cup Haaland nets 2 more. The win, achieved at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, saw Norway clinch knockouts and join France in advancing. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé also scored twice, once before and once after a significant weather delay, as France cruised to a dominant 3-0 win against Iraq Mbappé makes it rain. This victory, marked by a two-hour interruption due to storms, confirmed France's place in the last 32 with a game to spare Mbappe double sends France into last 32.

Lionel Messi continued to etch his name in World Cup history, scoring two goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria to become the all-time leading men's World Cup scorer Messi breaks tie with Klose. The brace, achieved in Dallas, not only broke Miroslav Klose's record but also secured Argentina's spot in the knockout stages Messi makes scoring history. The Barcelona star's record-breaking performance underscores his enduring impact on the tournament Messi becomes World Cup all-time leading scorer.

Spain arrived at the World Cup in earnest with a commanding 3-0 win over Saudi Arabia, inspired by the emerging talent of 18-year-old Lamine Yamal Yamal inspires sharper Spain. Yamal, who grew up in a modest Catalan district, demonstrated why many believe this could be his tournament Lamine Yamal shows why this could be his World Cup. Meanwhile, Japan produced a record-breaking performance for an Asian nation in a World Cup match, comprehensively defeating Tunisia 4-0 Japan rout Tunisia.

Transfer Market Buzz and Managerial Moves

Manchester City are reportedly close to appointing Enzo Maresca as their new manager, having agreed on a compensation package with Chelsea Sources: City close to naming Maresca. Maresca, who previously worked under Pep Guardiola at City, is expected to succeed him at the helm Man City close in on appointing Maresca. Elsewhere, Manchester United have made significant progress on their plans for a new stadium, acquiring the majority of the land needed for a proposed 100,000-seater facility Man Utd secure land for 100,000-seater stadium. The club has bought a 25-acre site to build what would be the largest stadium in the United Kingdom Man Utd agree land deal.

In player news, Argentina forward Julián Álvarez has confirmed his desire to leave Atlético Madrid this summer, stating it's "the best thing for everyone" Álvarez: Best thing for everyone is to leave Atlet. Several top European clubs are reportedly vying for his signature Alvarez wants to leave Atletico Madrid. Liverpool have rejected a verbal offer of €25 million (£21.7 from Inter Milan for midfielder Curtis Jones Liverpool reject £21.7m Inter Milan offer.

Team News and Player Fitness

England's World Cup preparations received a boost as Christian Pulisic returned to full training after recovering from a left calf injury U.S. rides good vibes. Manager Thomas Tuchel, however, expressed reservations about the hydration breaks implemented at the tournament England boss Tuchel not a fan. Tuchel is also noted for his approach to England's attacking players, aiming "not to disturb the music" of their free-flowing play Tuchel wary of disturbing 'the music'. Meanwhile, England midfielder Declan Rice's fitness is a concern, though Jamie Carragher believes he cannot be afforded to be rested against Ghana, while Bukayo Saka should be carefully managed Carragher: England can't afford to rest Rice. Ghana's Thomas Partey has declared himself "ready to play" against England, having been initially denied entry to Canada for their opening match Partey 'ready' for England.

Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the remainder of the World Cup due to an ankle injury Germany defender Schlotterbeck out. In contrast, William Saliba has revealed he has been playing through pain for France, motivated by the opportunity to make history Saliba playing through pain.

Miscellaneous Football News

The Scottish Tartan Army has continued to endear themselves to host cities, with fans celebrating alongside the Miami Marlins after previously adopting the Boston Red Sox Bagpipes and baseball. Their warmth towards the Scottish fans during the World Cup has been palpable Miami romance, Billy Gilmour.

In a controversial move, winger Jeremy Doku faced criticism for stating his intention to leave Belgium's World Cup camp to be present for the birth of his child Doku criticised over plan. Meanwhile, former Atletico Madrid striker Rade Bogdanovic has issued an apology for racist comments made towards black players during a live World Cup broadcast on Serbian television TV pundit Bogdanovic apologises.

Women's Super League clubs will be permitted to serve alcohol to supporters in the stands from the start of the next season, following successful trials WSL clubs to provide alcohol.