Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Take Shape Amidst Surprises and Near Misses

The World Cup knockout stages are beginning to take shape, marked by several dramatic conclusions to group play. Ecuador stunned already-qualified Germany with a 2-1 comeback victory, securing their passage to the next round and simultaneously denting Scotland's hopes. This victory came after Ecuador found their scoring touch against a heavily favored German side, a crucial performance for coach Sebastian Beccacece who was reportedly on the verge of losing his job. Meanwhile, South Africa made history by qualifying for the knockout rounds for the first time, finishing second in Group A with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Japan and Sweden also advanced from Group F after a 1-1 draw, with Daizen Maeda scoring for Japan and Anthony Elanga netting a crucial equalizer for Sweden.

The United States men's national team will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32 after a late 3-2 defeat to Türkiye, a match where coach Mauricio Pochettino reportedly chose not to start players on yellow cards to avoid suspensions. Despite the loss, Pochettino will have learned plenty about his second-string players. Australia progressed to the last-32 with a goalless draw against Paraguay, a result that suited both teams and left Paraguay well-placed to join them. Mexico, under coach Javier Aguirre, cemented a historic World Cup run by securing a perfect group stage with a 3-0 victory over Czechia, a performance that pleased a nation celebrating on home soil.

European Powerhouses and Potential Upsets

Netherlands secured top spot in Group F with a decisive 3-1 win over Tunisia, demonstrating their strength as they head into the knockout phase. Ivory Coast also secured a second-place finish in Group E, with Nicolas Pepe scoring twice in a comfortable 2-0 victory over Curacao, ensuring their progression. Spain, meanwhile, saw coach Luis de la Fuente laud Mikel Oyarzabal as "a great among greats" after his World Cup brace against Saudi Arabia, signaling confidence in their attacking options.

Nations Facing Uncertainty and Early Exits

Scotland faces an anxious wait to determine if they will advance after a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brazil, leaving Steve Clarke and his players contemplating their mistakes and the unlikelihood of progressing. Coach Hong Myung-Bo's gamble of leaving out captain Son Heung-Min could see South Korea exit, as they fell to South Africa. Panama was eliminated from the World Cup after Ante Budimir's late strike secured a 1-0 victory for Croatia, who are looking to replicate their 2018 finalist run. Canada's loss to Switzerland meant they missed a golden opportunity to play a round-of-32 game in front of their home fans.

Transfer Market Buzz and Player News

The transfer market is heating up with significant deals reportedly in the works. Manchester City have agreed to a British record £130m deal with Nottingham Forest to sign England midfielder Elliot Anderson. In women's football, two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has decided to join London City Lionesses on a free transfer after her departure from Barcelona. Real Madrid has reportedly spent a new world record fee to land teenage striker Felicia Schröder, making the transfer "the most expensive ever in women's football" according to BK Hacken. Manchester United is also reportedly close to agreeing a fresh loan with Trabzonspor for goalkeeper André Onana sources have told ESPN.

Club Football and League Preparations

In domestic news, Tottenham have agreed a deal to sign goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on a free transfer. Leeds United have also reached an agreement to sign Harry Wilson on a free transfer. The opening weekend of the Championship season will see West Ham and Burnley go head to head, with all EFL games being broadcast live on Sky Sports+. League One and League Two fixtures for the 2026-27 season have been released, with Leicester City starting their campaign at Notts County live on Sky Sports and newly-promoted Rochdale's game at Newport kicking off the League Two season live on Sky Sports.

Other Sports News

In tennis, legend Chris Evert has undergone surgery following the return of her ovarian cancer and will miss Wimbledon. Emma Raducanu is facing a race to be fit for Wimbledon after missing a practice session. The ATP Tour sees Jack Draper advance to the Eastbourne Open semi-finals after a commanding victory. In boxing, Terri Harper returns to the ring on a bill topped by Mikaela Mayer against Chantelle Cameron. In darts, Luke Littler safely navigated the US Darts Masters to reach the quarter-finals, while Josh Rock crashed out.