Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 6, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Drama

The World Cup knockout stage has been a whirlwind of dramatic upsets and individual brilliance. England narrowly secured a quarter-final spot with a thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium. Despite being outplayed at times, England's "heroic defensive performance" proved decisive, with Jude Bellingham delivering a "colossal" display that silenced doubters. Coach Thomas Tuchel, however, was furious with the referees, calling them "just not good enough" after the match. The dramatic encounter was preceded by a shelter-in-place order due to an approaching electrical storm, adding to the tense atmosphere.

Norway, powered by an in-form Erling Haaland, stunned Brazil with a 2-1 victory, sending the five-time champions crashing out. Haaland's brace dumped Brazil out in the last, setting up a quarter-final clash with England. Brazil's exit has led to questions about the team's direction, with manager Carlo Ancelotti facing scrutiny despite his pedigree, though some believe he is the man to restore their glory. Meanwhile, Neymar emotionally declared his Brazil career was over following the defeat.

Morocco continued their impressive World Cup run, beating Canada to reach the quarter-finals. Their unbeaten streak now stands at 34 matches, silencing any doubts about their contention status after a strong showing. The North African side features rising star Ayyoub Bouaddi, a teenage sensation drawing interest from Europe's elite.

Controversial FIFA Decision

A significant controversy has erupted around FIFA's decision to allow USA striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium in the last, despite him having received a red card. UEFA has strongly criticized the move, stating it "crossed a red line" and jeopardized the "integrity of the game." England coach Thomas Tuchel also expressed total confusion over the disciplinary process. Reports suggest the White House contacted FIFA prior to the ban being suspended, leaving many "unanswered questions" about the decision. Balogun himself described the situation as an "emotional rollercoaster" following the ban's suspension.

Other Football News

In club news, Oliver Glasner has become Nottingham Forest's fifth head coach year, replacing Vitor Pereira. Rangers midfielders have been linked with moves away, with Bologna reportedly keen on Alex Barron. Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a massive £188m bid for Crystal Palace's Michael Olise, while also signing defender Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan on a four-year deal. Newcastle United have completed the signing of winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for a reported £42m.

The Scottish League Cup kicked off its group stages on Saturday, featuring four top-flight clubs. Celtic have reportedly entered fresh talks for Qarabag forward Camilo Duran amid transfer speculation.

Tennis & Golf Updates

Wimbledon saw significant upsets as Naomi Osaka knocked out top seed Aryna Sabalenka. Novak Djokovic continued his strong run, breaking Roger Federer's record for match victories at the All England Club during his latest win. Serena Williams was forced to withdraw from the doubles competition due to a "heartbroken" knee injury preventing her participation.

In golf, Chris Gotterup claimed the John Deere Classic title with a final-round, finishing 20 under par. Padraig Harrington successfully defended his US Senior Open title, while Carolina Chacarra secured her maiden Ladies European Tour victory at the Hulencourt Women's Open in Belgium.

Rugby League Action

Super League's Magic Weekend delivered thrilling derby matches. Wigan Warriors emerged victorious in a fierce contest against St Helens, winning 16-14. St Helens coach Paul Rowley questioned refereeing decisions following the narrow defeat. Leeds Rhinos ran riot against rivals Bradford Bulls, securing a dominant 50-16 victory thanks to Ash Handley's hat-trick. Hull KR also secured a derby win, defeating Hull FC 26-12 at the Magic Weekend. Leigh Leopards bolstered their play-off aspirations with a convincing win over Warrington Wolves.

Formula 1 and Motorsport

The British Grand Prix was marred by chaos, with Charles Leclerc taking the win for Ferrari. Kimi Antonelli's championship lead was significantly reduced after a late technical failure, despite him having started on pole and winning the Sprint race ahead of Lewis Hamilton. Max Verstappen expressed his frustration with his Red Bull car, calling a recurring issue "dangerous" and saying he's fed up. Mercedes accepted blame for Antonelli's mechanical failure that cost him victory. The FIA explained why the race finished under a Safety Car after an erroneous message.

Cricket Results

Australia secured their seventh Women's with a commanding seven-wicket victory over England in the final at Lord's. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt admitted her side were "outplayed" but remained upbeat about their future despite the runner-up finish. Sky Sports' Nasser Hussain noted England were "too timid" in their chase against a superior Australian side. Elsewhere, England's men's team secured an impressive four-wicket victory over India in the second T20 international, with Jacob Bethell starring for England.

Rugby Union

South Africa demonstrated their dominance with a resounding 45-21 victory over England in their Nations Championship opener. Ireland, despite being hit by injuries, secured a "madcap" 33-31 comeback win against Australia in Sydney in the opening round. Scotland made an "impressive start" to their Nations Championship campaign with a 47-38 away win over Argentina banishing lingering doubts. George Furbank will miss England's Nations Championship games, including the opener against South Africa, due to appendicitis ruling him out of the tour.