Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 2:31 AM ET

World Cup Group Stage Conclusions & Knockout Picture

The World Cup group stage has drawn to a close, with several nations securing their passage to the knockout rounds while others face disappointment. Spain topped Group H with a narrow 1-0 victory over Uruguay, though their performance was criticized as listless and requiring significant improvement. The win came at a cost, as winger Yeremy Pino suffered a suspected broken collarbone and may miss the remainder of the tournament. Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, crashed out following their defeat to Spain, with goalkeeper Fernando Muslera being substituted at halftime after a first-half blunder.

Belgium clinched top spot in their group by thrashing New Zealand 5-1, with Leandro Trossard scoring twice. Cape Verde made history as the smallest nation to reach the knockout rounds, securing second place in Group H with a goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, setting up a tie with Argentina. England confirmed their place in the knockout stages before their final group fixture against Panama. Meanwhile, France completed a perfect Group I campaign with a convincing 4-1 win over a rotated Norway side, featuring a first-half hat-trick from Ousmane Dembélé.

In Group G, Iran missed out on second place after a last-gasp goal was controversially overturned, but they retain hope of progressing. The "Pride Match" between Egypt and Iran in Seattle proceeded with FIFA reiterating that rainbow flags would be permitted. Ecuador stunned Germany with a comeback 2-1 victory, securing their knockout stage berth and prompting President Daniel Noboa to declare a public holiday. Mexico also advanced with a 3-0 win over Czechia, marking a record sixth World Cup appearance for goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.

The United States suffered a late 3-2 defeat to eliminated Turkey, a result that means they will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed frustration with media questions after the loss, stating his team "won the group". Pochettino also indicated he would not risk players on yellow cards in the final group game against Türkiye to avoid suspensions. Christian Pulisic was on the bench for the USMNT's finale, with reports suggesting he was ready to play but not for a full 90 minutes.

Other group stage outcomes saw the Netherlands claim top spot in Group F with a 3-1 victory over Tunisia. Qatar's Assim Madibo received a five-match ban for a tackle that broke the leg of Canada's Ismaël Koné. The format of the expanded 48-team World Cup came under scrutiny, with specific matches presenting scenarios where teams could potentially play for a draw to qualify.

Transfer Rumours and Club Moves

Transfer speculation continues to swirl around Europe's top clubs. Arsenal have reportedly had a £55 million bid rejected for Newcastle's Bruno Guimarães, though they are also said to be exploring moves for Guimarães and Sandro Tonali. Manchester City have agreed a deal to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, a move expected to impact the midfield transfer market. Tottenham are reportedly monitoring the situation of West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, potentially rivalling Manchester United for his signature.

In Italy, AC Milan have appointed Massimo Calvelli as CEO, aiming to "bring a winning culture" back to the club, and have reportedly rejected an approach from New York City FC for a USMNT attacker. Former West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand has taken his first coaching role at National League side Hornchurch. Striker Paul Mullin has departed Wrexham by mutual consent after a five-year spell.

Other Sporting News

In boxing, Ben Whittaker's progress could lead to a fight with Joshua Buatsi as he prepares for a world title bout. Horse racing fans can follow the Northumberland Plate day from Newcastle, with Spirit Mixer bidding to defend its crown. The PGA Tour's new promotion and relegation system has been likened to the Premier League.

In cricket, Ben Stokes played a significant role in England's fightback on day two of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. England's women's T20 World Cup campaign saw them reach the semi-finals after defeating West Indies.

Formula 1 saw championship leader Kimi Antonelli top the timesheets in practice for the Austrian Grand Prix, while McLaren confirmed upgrades for their MCL40 car. Wimbledon's draw has been released, with Emma Raducanu facing a potentially tough path, possibly meeting Aryna Sabalenka in the third round. Players are reportedly planning to continue prize fund protests at the tournament.