Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 25, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Take Shape

The World Cup knockout stages are beginning to take shape, with several nations confirming their progression. The United States men's national team will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California, in the round of 32 on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Japan and Sweden both advanced from Group F following a 1-1 draw, with Anthony Elanga's equalizer securing Sweden's spot. The Netherlands claimed top position in Group F with a decisive 3-1 victory over Tunisia to secure top spot.

Upsets and Surprises in Group Play

Ecuador engineered a significant upset, rallying for a 2-1 win over Germany to advance to the knockout stage and simultaneously dent Scotland's hopes. Gonzalo Plata's late goal sealed the victory for Ecuador, who were on the brink of elimination. In another surprising result, Ivory Coast secured second place in Group E with a 2-0 win over Curacao, propelled by a brace from Nicolas Pepe to seal their progression.

Controversy and Player Accolades

Ivory Coast coach Emerse Faé has criticized comments made by former Germany player Bastian Schweinsteiger, which he deemed "racist" and related to African soccer style. On a more positive note, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente lauded Mikel Oyarzabal, calling him "a great among greats" after his brace against Saudi Arabia earned him deserved praise.

Group Stage Wrap-up and Player Watch

The final group stage matches saw several teams vying for qualification. Mexico concluded their group stage with a perfect record, defeating Czechia 3-0, with veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa making an appearance in his sixth World Cup. South Africa made history by qualifying for the knockout rounds for the first time, securing a 1-0 victory over South Korea. Morocco also advanced, finishing as runners-up in Group C after a late surge against Haiti.

Player Movements and Transfer Rumors

In transfer news, Manchester City have reportedly agreed a deal with Nottingham Forest to sign Elliot Anderson for a potential British record fee of £130 million. Elsewhere, Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is nearing a loan move to Turkish club Trabzonspor for a second spell. Double Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has decided to join London City Lionesses after her departure from Barcelona.

Other Football News

The Scottish national team faces an anxious wait to determine if they will advance to the knockout rounds of the World Cup, with their fate dependent on other results. Qatar's Assim Madibo has been handed a five-match ban for a tackle that resulted in a broken leg for Canada's Ismaël Koné. In other news, French footballer Kenzo Kies died at the age of 21 due to drowning in the Rhone river. FIFA has reiterated that rainbow flags will be permitted inside stadiums for matches, including the Egypt vs. Iran fixture.

Club Management and Fixtures

Several clubs have announced new management. Craig Bellamy will remain with Wales, as his proposed move to Burnley has fallen through staying with the national team. Hearts are reportedly close to appointing Wouter Vrancken as their new head coach as the Belgian manager. Aaron Ramsey has been appointed head coach of Oxford United taking the reins, while Scott Phelan has been confirmed as the permanent manager of Everton Women following an interim period. Gary O'Neil has signed a three-year deal to become the new Ipswich manager after Kieran McKenna's departure. Alfred Johansson expects Motherwell to build on last season's success under his new tenure.

The EFL Trophy draw has been made, with holders Luton Town set to face Peterborough. The Carabao Cup first-round draw has also been completed, pitting League One Leicester against Northampton at home and West Ham hosting Portsmouth discovering their opponents. The new Championship season kicks off with a match between relegated Burnley and West Ham on the opening weekend, with all EFL games scheduled to be shown live on Sky Sports.

Tennis and Golf Update

Tennis legend Chris Evert has undergone surgery for the return of her ovarian cancer and will miss Wimbledon this year. In golf, England's Matthew Fitzpatrick, Aaron Rai, and Justin Rose, along with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, made strong starts at the Travelers Championship, though Wyndham Clark experienced a setback with a triple bogey.

Other Sport News

Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold has been charged with leading a kidnapping plot and armed robbery. In boxing, former IBF super-featherweight world champion Joe Cordina faces assault charges following an incident at a petrol station in February. The Rugby Football League has confirmed England international Freya Godfrey has signed a new three-year contract with London City Lionesses extending her stay.