Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 28, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Begins Amidst Player Injuries and Shifting Favorites

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially transitioned into its high-stakes knockout phase, with the round of 32 commencing. The tournament has already seen significant player injuries, with Manchester United confirming midfielder Manuel Ugarte suffered knee ligament damage during Uruguay's defeat to Spain. Spain's Nico Williams also voiced his distress after an injury against Uruguay potentially jeopardized his World Cup future. Uruguay notably pulled their goalkeeper Fernando Muslera at halftime after a costly error against Spain. Meanwhile, the landscape of favorites is being re-evaluated, with France and Argentina topping the odds boards, while the United States' positive momentum has sportsbooks on edge.

Group Stage Drama Concludes, Setting Up Intriguing Knockout Ties

The group stage concluded with several dramatic finishes and some unexpected outcomes, setting the stage for the round of. Colombia secured top spot in Group K with a scoreless draw against Portugal, while Portugal finished second. South Africa is set to play their first-ever World Cup knockout game against Canada, aiming to overcome the ghosts of their 2010 performance. Jesse Marsch has found a home with Canada, guiding them towards the last 16 after facing career difficulties. The USMNT, despite a loss to Turkey, will face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of, with coach Mauricio Pochettino learning from his second-string players. Star Power on Display as Knockout Rounds Commence

The World Cup continues to feature its biggest stars, though some matchups are proving more elusive. A potential quarterfinal clash between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi now looks unlikely until the final, following Portugal's draw with Colombia. Ronaldo himself has played every minute for Portugal in the group stage. Argentina, having secured success without Messi against Jordan, saw their captain make an impact off the bench to extend his goal record. France's Ousmane Dembélé impressed with a first-half hat-trick against Norway, and Didier Deschamps is set to rejoin the French squad after attending his mother's funeral.

European Contenders and Surprise Packages Advance

Several European nations have navigated the group stage and are setting their sights on the latter stages. England secured top spot in Group L, with Harry Kane becoming their all-time leading World Cup scorer. They will face DR Congo in the last, a team that fought back to beat Uzbekistan. Jude Bellingham has become an integral player for England under Thomas Tuchel. Belgium, after a slow start, topped Group G thanks to Leandro Trossard's brace. Sweden advanced to the knockout stages after Anthony Elanga's equalizer against Japan secured a 1-1 draw.

African Nations Make Their Mark on the World Stage

African teams have shown resilience and determination as the tournament progresses. South Africa enters the knockout stage with a never-say-die attitude, epitomized by Yaya Sithole's performance. Senegal thumped Iraq to bolster their chances of advancing as one of the top eight third-placed teams. Meanwhile, Ecuador stunned Germany with a 2-1 comeback win to reach the knockout stages, impacting Scotland's progression hopes.

VAR and Tournament Format Under Scrutiny

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has been a talking point, with questions arising about its consistency and impact on games. One 0-0 draw highlighted potential flaws in the World Cup's format, as it allowed two teams to progress without scoring. The "Disgrace of Gijón" is a historical context for the Algeria-Austria match, with Algeria seeking revenge after 44 years.

Transfer Market Buzzes Amidst International Competition

While the World Cup dominates headlines, transfer rumors continue to circulate. Manchester United remains interested in West Ham's Mateus Fernandes. Arsenal is reportedly in a battle with Manchester City for PSG defender Emmanuel Mbemba and is poised to make an offer for Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes. Chelsea is reportedly receiving bids for defender Trevoh Chalobah and is interested in Sunderland midfielder Granit Xhaka. Rangers are reportedly closing in on defender Godfrey and have completed a medical for another. Other Sporting News

Beyond the World Cup, other sporting events are unfolding. In cricket, Australia eliminated India from the Women's T20 World Cup. Ben Stokes' international retirement cast a shadow over England's Test match against New Zealand, 81. In horse racing, Benvenuto Cellini won the Irish Derby for Aidan O'Brien, and Estrange secured a Group One victory in the Pretty Polly Stakes. Formula 1 saw Max Verstappen suggest Red Bull missed a strategic opportunity in Austria, while Lewis Hamilton hopes for a strategic advantage against Mercedes. Kimi Antonelli impressed in practice sessions in Austria. In boxing, Jarod Ennis unified WBA and WBO titles with a knockout victory. Professional golf saw Eugenio Chacarra secure a significant win in Italy, and Haeran Ryu held a lead at the Women's PGA Championship. Luke Humphries claimed the US Darts Masters title.