Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 8:32 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Drama

The World Cup knockout stage has delivered a series of dramatic encounters, including a remarkable comeback by Belgium against Senegal. Trailing 2-0, Belgium pulled off a stunning rally to win 3-2 in extra time, with Youri Tielemans scoring a controversial late penalty. The match had "everything," from late drama to controversy, marking Senegal's remarkable exit. Meanwhile, the United States secured its first knockout win since 2002, defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in the round of. Folarin Balogun opened the scoring for the USMNT but was later sent off, meaning he will miss their last-16 clash with Belgium after his red card. Christian Pulisic, however, has declared himself fit and ready to play the full match against Bosnia.

England is set to face Mexico in a challenging last-16 tie, with head coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledging the "huge advantage" Mexico will possess due to the altitude of the Estadio Azteca. Despite England's progression, the team has faced criticism for its performances, with issues remaining for Tuchel to solve before facing Mexico. Harry Kane has been England's talisman, scoring twice to rescue them against DR Congo and secure their spot in the next round. His brace against DR Congo brought his World Cup goal tally to, surpassing Pelé's total in World Cup goals. The team's World Cup soundtrack, Oasis's "Wonderwall," has become a symbol of their campaign as they aim for glory.

Other teams advancing include France, who breezed past Sweden 3-0 with Kylian Mbappé setting a new record for goals in World Cup knockout matches. Norway, inspired by Erling Haaland's late winner against Ivory Coast, have set up a last-16 clash with Brazil. Haaland was described by his coach as the "greatest goal scorer in the world" and irreplaceable. Germany, however, suffered a shock elimination after a defeat to Paraguay, prompting questions about the future of the national team, with speculation linking Jurgen Klopp to the coaching role.

Transfer Market Buzz

The transfer window is heating up with several significant deals being reported. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly on the verge of smashing their transfer record, agreeing to a deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. Roberto De Zerbi played a "huge role" in Tonali's impending move to Spurs from Newcastle. Tottenham has also been active in other areas, reportedly agreeing to a club-record £85 million deal for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes ahead of Manchester United. Bournemouth are also in talks to sign Elche striker Alvaro Rodriguez for an initial fee of around £18 million, potentially rising to £25 million with add-ons for the striker.

In the Women's Super League, England international Lucy Bronze has signed a contract extension with Chelsea, keeping her at the club until 2027 with Chelsea. Germany forward Nicole Anyomi has joined London City Lionesses on a four-year contract, while Aston Villa has signed Denmark striker Amalie Vangsgaard from Juventus for the Lionesses. Everton have strengthened their midfield with the signings of Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough in a deal reportedly worth £24 million for Hackney.

Club and Player News

Elsewhere, Chelsea has been active in the transfer market, signing 21-year-old Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million, with the defender being Xabi Alonso's first signing as Chelsea manager for Chelsea. Bayern Munich has secured the signing of Morocco World Cup goalscorer Ismael Saibari, with head coach Vincent Kompany playing a key role in his decision to join from PSV Eindhoven for Bayern. Alejandro Grimaldo is returning to Spain after joining Atlético Madrid from Bayer Leverkusen for Atlético.

In other news, Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye has announced he will be "taking a break" from playing for his country while the current management is in charge from Senegal. Belgium's Youri Tielemans downplayed reports of a rift with teammate Leandro Trossard after their on-field scuffle during Belgium's World Cup win against Senegal, stating it is "part of football" with Trossard.

Other Sports

In Formula, McLaren driver Lando Norris believes the team is "three months behind" its rivals in car development as they aim to regain their competitive edge for McLaren. Ahead of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, F1 drivers are set to participate in a parade driving Lego minicars at Silverstone. In golf, Jon Rahm has announced his return to the Irish Open, where he will be joined by Ryder Cup teammates at the Irish Open. Jockey Frankie Dettori sustained several broken ribs and a broken thumb following a car accident in Newmarket in Newmarket.

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup is building towards a potential final clash between Australia and England at Lord's on Sunday at Lord's. England has been perfect so far in the tournament, with five wins from five, and will look to end a semi-final hoodoo against South Africa in the T20 World Cup. In boxing, Tyson Fury is scheduled to fight Mariusz Wach in Thailand on July 24 as part of his preparations for a proposed showdown with Anthony Joshua in November with Wach.