Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Drama and Surprises

The World Cup knockout stage is in full swing, marked by dramatic finishes and controversial calls. Portugal kept their World Cup dream alive with a controversial 2-1 victory over Croatia, where a late VAR decision denied Croatia an equalizer kept alive. Cristiano Ronaldo played a pivotal role in keeping his team's hopes alive, with veteran forward Luka Modric exiting the tournament ended Modric's. FIFA has confirmed that a VAR review correctly disallowed Croatia's equalizer against Portugal due to technology within the World Cup ball VAR call was correct. Meanwhile, Switzerland secured their first World Cup knockout win in 88 years, defeating Algeria 2-0 to advance to the next round knockout win.

USMNT Navigates Suspensions and Tough Competition

The U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) faces significant challenges in the knockout rounds, notably the suspension of Folarin Balogun. Balogun described his sending-off against Bosnia-Herzegovina as an "emotional rollercoaster" emotional rollercoaster, and sources indicate there is no route to appeal the red card, potentially leading to an extended ban cannot appeal. The team's path forward without their star striker is uncertain, with questions arising about how they will cope how will they cope. Despite these hurdles, the USMNT secured a multifaceted win against Bosnia-Herzegovina, indicating a potential winning formula for their World Cup run win vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina. Christian Pulisic has returned to the USMNT lineup after recovering from a calf injury returns to lineup.

England's World Cup Journey Continues Amidst Scrutiny

England has advanced to the round of, setting up a highly anticipated clash with co-hosts Mexico last-16 showdown. Harry Kane was instrumental in their 2-1 comeback victory over DR Congo, scoring twice Kane keeps alive, though right-back remains a concern after Djed Spence struggled in the match Spence struggles. The team's progression has drawn significant viewership, with 16.3 million tuning in to watch their win against DR Congo 16.3m tune in. England's tactical approach under Thomas Tuchel is under the microscope as they prepare for Mexico, with questions arising about their ability to manage the altitude at the Estadio Azteca Azteca altitude impact. Pubs across the country will be allowed to stay open until 5 am on Monday for the England-Mexico match open until 5am.

European Giants and Transfer Buzz

In club football news, Serie A runners-up Napoli have appointed Massimiliano Allegri as their new head coach on a three-year deal named new manager. Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone insists Julián Álvarez remains central to his plans, despite interest from Barcelona remains central. Barcelona, however, have confirmed their offer for Álvarez remains on the table offer still stands. Chelsea has signed Japanese international Manaka Matsukubo on a five-year contract from North Carolina Courage sign Japan midfielder. Manchester City are reportedly in talks with Fenerbahce over a £7 million deal for defender Nathan Ake Ake in talks.

Tennis and Formula 1 Action

At Wimbledon, Aryna Sabalenka has set up a highly anticipated match against Naomi Osaka, while Coco Gauff continues her strong performance mouth-watering clash. Novak Djokovic matched Roger Federer's Wimbledon record with his 105th match win equal Federer's record. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton secured pole position for the British Grand Prix Sprint after an "amazing surprise" in practice amazing surprise pole. F1 Academy is making history with its racing debut at Silverstone as part of the British Grand Prix program making history.

Other Football News and Transfer Rumors

Beyond the World Cup, there's significant transfer activity and managerial moves. Ange Postecoglou has been named the new Al Nassr boss in the Saudi Pro League, where he will coach Cristiano Ronaldo new Al Nassr boss. Tottenham have completed a club-record £85 million signing of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United record £85m signing. Manchester United are reportedly targeting Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa midfield shortlist. In the women's game, Lionesses midfielder Georgia Stanway has joined Arsenal following her exit from Bayern Munich joins Arsenal. Gotham FC forward Sam Kerr stated she only considered returning to the NWSL after her departure from Chelsea only choice, while USWNT winger Emma Sears has requested a trade from Racing Louisville requests trade.