Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Heat Up as Major Powers Advance

The FIFA World Cup knockout stage is underway, with several traditional powerhouses securing their passage to the next round. Spain, after a somewhat unconvincing group stage, eased past Austria with a dominant 3-0 victory at SoFi Stadium. Mikel Oyarzabal netted twice, and Barcelona's Lamine Yamal was named MVP, declaring "the World Cup starts now" following the win. This performance marks a significant turnaround for Spain, who had recorded three tournaments and zero knockout wins since their 2010 triumph prior to this match. Elsewhere, the United States secured its first World Cup knockout win since 2002 by defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0. Despite facing questions about playing without their suspended star striker, the USMNT demonstrated a versatility to "deal with every situation" as they prepare for Belgium. However, U.S. international Folarin Balogun received a red card in the Bosnia match, and sources have confirmed there is no route for appeal, potentially leading to an extended ban.

European Giants Navigate Early Knockout Rounds Amidst Controversy

European heavyweights are also making their mark in the World Cup's early knockout rounds. France continued their impressive form, with Kylian Mbappe scoring six goals in the tournament to help them cruise past Sweden 3-0 and reach the round of. Manager Didier Deschamps' "bold changes" in personnel and formation are being credited for the team's success, fueling optimism for a potential World Cup triumph after finishing as runners-up in 2022. Belgium staged a remarkable comeback, rallying from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 in extra time. Youri Tielemans converted a late penalty to seal the victory, but the match also saw Ecuador defender Piero Hincapie become the second player to be sent off for covering his mouth during a confrontation, a rule that UEFA has since confirmed will result red cards. Portugal, meanwhile, faces a highly emotional encounter against Croatia, carrying the memory of their former teammate Diogo Jota, who died a year ago as they aim for World Cup glory.

Transfer Market Buzzes with Record-Breaking Deals and Player Movement

The transfer market is in full swing, with several high-profile moves and rumors dominating headlines. Manchester City has reportedly agreed to a deal for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, with the transfer expected to be a British-record fee of £116 million, bringing City's spending under their current ownership to £824 million over three years making Anderson their most expensive British signing. Tottenham Hotspur is also making significant moves, agreeing to a club-record deal worth up to £100 million for Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, a move that has reportedly been influenced by Roberto De Zerbi who played a huge role in the transfer. Spurs are also reportedly close to signing Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million, and their spending spree is expected to continue as they target further reinforcements. In other transfer news, Enzo Fernández's agent has confirmed the midfielder is exploring options to leave Chelsea, while Brighton has signed Austria defender Michael Svoboda from Venezia.

Club Football and Player News Round Out Busy Period

Beyond the World Cup and transfer market, several other football stories have emerged. In women's cricket, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt confirmed her return from injury for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final against South Africa at The Oval. The team has been perfect throughout the tournament, aiming to end a semi-final hoodoo against South Africa after five wins from five matches. In a somber update, an inquest into the death of former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack heard that her mother believes her daughter "would still be alive if the coach of the women's team had not been employed by the club" a claim the coach's family refutes. Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has retired from playing at the age of 41 bringing an end to a distinguished career.