Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 25, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Scenarios Take Shape

South Africa made history by qualifying for the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time, securing second place in Group A with a 1-0 victory over South Korea. The co-hosting nation, Canada, will not play any further matches in their home country after losing their final group game to Switzerland, which denied them the chance to top Group B and play a round-of-32 game in front of their home fans as they settled for second. Meanwhile, Scotland's World Cup hopes are hanging by a thread after a damaging 3-0 defeat to Brazil, leaving head coach Steve Clarke believing they are "going home."

Mexico secured a perfect group stage with a 3-0 win over Czechia, featuring a cameo from veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, who appeared in his sixth World Cup. Ochoa, at 40 years old, became the oldest player to feature in the competition for Mexico, while 17-year-old Gilberto Mora set a record as the youngest to start a match in 24 years as Mexico eliminated Czech Republic. In Group C, Morocco secured second place with a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Haiti, with two late goals sealing their progress.

Team Performances and Player Milestones

Brazil clinched the top spot in Group C with a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland, inspired by Vinícius Júnior. Neymar also made his first appearance of the tournament, coming off the bench against Scotland as Brazil topped their group. Lionel Messi celebrated his 39th birthday during a World Cup that has thus far brought him joy, having already matched Miroslav Klose's World Cup goal record. His teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo, also opened his goal account with two strikes in Portugal's 5-0 thrashing of Uzbekistan as Bruno Fernandes expressed relief.

Qatar's Assim Madibo received a five-match ban for a tackle that resulted in a broken leg for Canada's Ismael Koné. In other news, AC Milan has rejected an approach from New York City FC for United States attacker Christian Pulisic, with the Italian club stating the player is not for sale according to sources. United States manager Mauricio Pochettino indicated that his four players on yellow cards would not start against Türkiye to avoid suspension for the next round as he manages squad fitness.

Transfer Rumors and Club Business

Tottenham Hotspur has confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka on a free transfer from Burnley, with his contract set to expire on July 1st pending contractual agreements. Chelsea is reportedly stepping up efforts to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as part of their defensive rebuild, while also being linked with Cagliari's "PlayStation" like player as part of a defensive overhaul. Amidst speculation about David Raya's future, Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly tracking Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott as transfer gossip circulates.

West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is valued at £80 million amid interest from Tottenham Hotspur, who are also reportedly confident of signing Newcastle's Sandro Tonali as transfer sagas continue. Elsewhere, Leeds United has agreed to a free transfer for Fulham attacker Harry Wilson completing contract negotiations. Real Madrid has reportedly set a new world record fee to sign teenage Swedish striker Felicia Schröder from B.K. Häcken finalizing the major transfer.

Other Sporting News

England is trending in the right direction at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, reaching the semi-finals after an 113-run victory over Pakistan, with Ellyse Perry starring with bat and ball as Australia continued their unbeaten run. Promoter Eddie Hearn is open to renegotiating the Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury fight venue if staging it in America proves beneficial exploring venue options. In cricket, Ollie Robinson has been left out of England's lineup for the series-deciding third Test against New Zealand, despite being available for selection as team selections are made.

The PGA Tour will implement promotion and relegation from the 2028 season, introducing a two-tier series format as part of a significant structural overhaul announcing a major shake-up. In tennis, Jack Draper has advanced to the Eastbourne Open quarter-finals after a win over fellow Briton Jack Pinnington Jones, maintaining his encouraging form under new coach Andy Murray continuing his strong run. Former Open champion Francesco Molinari has been named as one of Luke Donald's vice captains for a third consecutive Ryder Cup joining the captain's team.