Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama

The World Cup knockout stage is in full swing, with several dramatic ties captivating fans. Belgium pulled off a stunning comeback against Senegal, overcoming a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 in extra time thanks to a controversial late penalty from Youri Tielemans to reach the last 16. This thrilling victory came after a tie marked by late drama and controversy. The United States also advanced, securing its first knockout win since 2002 by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0. However, their victory was tempered by Folarin Balogun's second-half red card, which will see him miss their next match against Belgium as USA march on. Meanwhile, England relied on two goals from Harry Kane to overcome a spirited DR Congo side 2-1, with the captain continuing his impressive goal-scoring record surpassing Pelé's World Cup tally. England now faces Mexico in the round of, a match complicated by concerns over playing at the high altitude of the Azteca Stadium.

Upsets and Emerging Contenders

The World Cup has seen its fair share of upsets and surprising performances. Germany crashed out of the tournament in a dramatic penalty shootout against underdogs Paraguay, marking their first-ever shootout loss in the competition after VAR drama. In another shock, Brazil survived a scare against Japan, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring a 96th-minute winner to clinch a 2-1 victory and a place in the last 16 denying Japan a first-ever knockout stage win. France continues to impress, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to defeat Sweden 3-0 and set a new record for World Cup knockout goals, leading Gary Neville to declare them "a level above" other teams with Mbappé on the verge of greatness. Colombia, after an earlier humbling defeat to France, have won their group and are dreaming of a deep run, while the USMNT has demonstrated its ability to adapt its approach to secure wins.

African Nations and Individual Brilliance

The performances of African teams have been a talking point, with questions arising about how many of the continent's nine representatives can advance to the last 16. Senegal's exit was dramatic, featuring a remarkable comeback attempt against Belgium in a tie with late drama and controversy. Elsewhere, Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands days after the loss of his unborn son, though the team was ultimately knocked out on penalties by Morocco. The tournament has also seen individual brilliance from stars like Erling Haaland, whose goal-scoring potential for Norway is immense with projections of over 260 international goals, and Harry Kane, who has delivered crucial moments for England earning comparisons to the greatest.

Transfer Market Buzz

The transfer window continues to generate significant activity. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to smash their transfer record again by agreeing to a deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali in a club-record move. AC Milan are reportedly considering a move for Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk as transfer rumors circulate. Bayern Munich have signed Ismael Saibari, with the new arrival admitting head coach Vincent Kompany was a key factor in his decision to join from PSV Eindhoven. Chelsea have also been active, signing defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million as Xabi Alonso's first signing.

Other Football News

In other football news, Germany's Manuel Neuer has announced his retirement from international duty stating "no regrets" following their disappointing World Cup exit. The tournament has also faced issues with online abuse, with Fifa reporting a significant increase in racist abuse. Portugal is preparing for an emotional match against Croatia as the anniversary of forward Diogo Jota's death nears as they prepare to honor him. Meanwhile, concerns are rising about the impact of altitude at Mexico's Estadio Azteca, with Thomas Tuchel suggesting it will give the hosts a "huge advantage" against England due to the thin air.