Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 24, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Picture Takes Shape as Group Stages Conclude

The 2026 World Cup group stage has reached its climax, with several nations securing their passage to the knockout rounds while others face anxious waits or outright elimination. Scotland's World Cup dreams are hanging by a thread after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Brazil in their final Group C match, a result that left coach Steve Clarke believing "we're going home." Vinícius Júnior inspired the Brazilian rout, securing the top spot in Group C and leaving the Tartan Army's hopes of advancing in serious jeopardy, 7, 13, 81, 92, 97. Morocco, meanwhile, secured second place in Group C with a late surge, scoring two goals to defeat Haiti 4-2 and book their own spot in the next round. Morocco's coach Mohamed Ouahbi has instilled a belief in his squad that they possess the "ingredients" to become World Cup champions.

In Group B Switzerland clinched the top spot with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over co-hosts Canada, denying Jesse Marsch's team the advantage of finishing first on home soil, 37. Canada will now have to wait to see if they advance as one of the best third-place finishers. Bosnia-Herzegovina kept their hopes of a maiden knockout appearance alive with a 3-1 victory over Qatar, positioning them as a likely opponent for the United States in the round of 32 23. Qatar's Assim Madibo has been handed a five-match ban for a tackle that broke the leg of Canada's Ismaël Koné, a suspension that will carry over to future competitions. Lionel Messi celebrated his 39th birthday amidst a World Cup campaign that has brought him considerable joy, continuing to break records for Argentina, 98, 139, 146. Messi's brace against Austria secured Argentina's progression to the knockout stages, breaking Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup scoring record in the process. France also secured their place in the last 32 with a 3-0 victory over Iraq, a match that was notably interrupted by a two-hour weather delay. Kylian Mbappé scored twice in the French victory. Norway, led by a brace from Erling Haaland, also clinched their spot in the knockouts with a 3-2 win over Senegal. Haaland's performances have put him in contention for the Golden Boot.

The United States men's national team is preparing for their group stage finale against Türkiye, with attacker Christian Pulisic returning to full training and expressing readiness to play, though likely not for the full 90 minutes, 42. Manager Mauricio Pochettino indicated he would not risk players on yellow cards, suggesting some may not start to avoid suspension for the subsequent round. Folarin Balogun has impressed with two goals in two games, drawing attention from major European clubs. England's World Cup campaign has seen Thomas Tuchel take a different tactical approach to Gareth Southgate's system, with Tuchel's England reportedly built to overcome top nations. Despite a goalless draw against Ghana, where questions were raised about a potential penalty not given, England is looking to trust Tuchel's strategy, 105. Reece James and Declan Rice are being assessed for fitness ahead of England's final group game.

Club Football Transfer Buzz and Managerial Moves

The transfer window continues to heat up as clubs prepare for the upcoming season. AC Milan has rejected an approach from New York City FC for United States international Christian Pulisic, stating the player is not for sale. Chelsea is reportedly stepping up efforts to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, and is also nearing a deal for Atalanta defender Marco Palestra for over £43m 21. Defender Malo Gusto is exploring his options and Chelsea has placed a £75m price tag on him. Real Madrid is reportedly interested in Arsenal's Piero Hincapié for their defensive rebuild and has also secured the signing of Swedish teenager Felicia Schröder for a world-record fee in women's football, 137. Marc Cucurella expressed his happiness at the prospect of former teammate Enzo Fernández joining him at Real Madrid.

Manchester City is reportedly close to appointing Enzo Maresca as their new manager, having agreed compensation with Chelsea. Tottenham Hotspur has confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka from Burnley on a free transfer, amid doubts over the future of current keeper Vicario. Spurs are also reportedly considering a bid for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, potentially facing competition from Manchester United. Manchester United is also looking to acquire land for a proposed new 100,000-seater stadium.

In Scotland, Derek McInnes has been unveiled as the new Rangers manager, expressing his belief that he "belongs" at the club and aiming to win the Scottish Premiership swiftly. Burnley is in talks to appoint Wales boss Craig Bellamy as their new manager, following Scott Parker's departure. Brighton is in advanced talks to sign Juventus and Switzerland midfielder Lia Walti. Leeds United has agreed on long-term contract deals with Fulham attacker Harry Wilson and is set to sign him on a free transfer. Other Sporting News

In cricket, England has advanced to the semi-finals of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup after defeating the West Indies by 38 runs. England's Tash Farrant believes the team is "trending in the right direction". Scotland's T20 World Cup campaign ended with elimination after New Zealand secured a six-wicket victory.

In boxing, Lewis Crocker lost his world title and unbeaten record to Liam Paro in Australia. Aaron McKenna is set to fight Etinosa Oliha for a world title in Dublin on August 8.

Tennis players are set to continue their protests regarding Grand Slam prize money at Wimbledon. Jack Draper has advanced to the quarter-finals of the Eastbourne Open.

Promoter Eddie Hearn is open to renegotiating the venue for the Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury fight if it proves beneficial. Ben Stokes has denied any rift with England head coach Brendon McCullum following his curfew suspension.