Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 26, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

FIFA World Cup Group Stage Drama and Knockout Buildup

The FIFA World Cup group stages concluded with several nations securing their passage to the knockout rounds, while others faced early exits. France, led by a first-half hat trick from Ousmane Dembélé, secured a comfortable 3-1 lead over Norway, though Erling Haaland was rested on the bench for the match. Meanwhile, the United States men's national team suffered a late 3-2 defeat to Türkiye, which, despite the loss, saw them advance to face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of. Ecuador secured a vital comeback win against Germany to advance, prompting President Daniel Noboa to declare a public holiday in the country. Scotland's World Cup hopes hang by a thread after a heavy 3-0 loss to Brazil, with manager Steve Clarke expressing pessimism about their chances of progressing. Japan booked a clash with Brazil in the next round after a 1-1 draw with Sweden, while the Netherlands claimed top spot in Group F with a 3-1 victory over Tunisia.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Signings

The transfer window is heating up as clubs prepare for the upcoming season. Chelsea is closing in on Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, and are also reportedly eyeing a move for Atalanta defender. Arsenal has seen their £55 million bid for Bruno Guimarães rejected by Newcastle United, though they are reportedly exploring further moves for the Brazilian midfielder and teammate Sandro Tonali. Manchester City has agreed a club-record deal worth up to £130 million to sign Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, a move that is expected to impact the wider midfielder market. In Italy, AC Milan has appointed Massimo Calvelli as CEO and rejected an approach from New York City FC for Christian Pulisic, with sources indicating the player is not for sale.

Player Movements and Coaching Changes

Several high-profile players are on the move or facing uncertain futures. Striker Paul Mullin has mutually terminated his contract with Wrexham after a five-year spell, while former Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe scored twice to send Ivory Coast through in the World Cup. Former West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand has taken his first coaching role with National League side Hornchurch, joining Robert Lee on the coaching staff. Meanwhile, former England international Alexia Putellas has reached an agreement with London City Lionesses after leaving Barcelona. Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly close to securing another loan spell at Turkish club Trabzonspor.

International Squad Updates and Controversies

National teams are preparing for upcoming fixtures amidst various team news and controversies. Declan Rice has returned to England training, though Reece James remains a doubt for their match against Panama. Ivory Coast coach Emerse Faé has criticized Bastian Schweinsteiger's comments about African soccer style, calling them potentially "racist." United States men's national team coach Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly held positive talks regarding a contract extension, though he also appeared combative with the media following their loss to Türkiye.

Tennis and Other Sports News

In tennis, Jack Draper's run at the Eastbourne Open ended in the semi-finals after a loss to Ugo Humbert. Emma Raducanu is now a doubt for Wimbledon after missing a practice session. Tennis legend Chris Evert has undergone surgery for returning ovarian cancer and will miss Wimbledon. In motorsport, Kimi Antonelli completed a practice double at the Austrian Grand Prix, while McLaren is appealing the Monaco Grand Prix result. Boxer Joe Cordina has been charged with assault following an incident in February.