Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 2:36 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up Amidst Controversy and Upsets

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is entering its most critical phase, marked by dramatic knockout matches and lingering controversies. Spain, powered by a stellar performance from midfielder Rodri, secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Portugal to advance to the quarterfinals. Rodri, named man of the match, acknowledged Spain's progress but stressed the team still possesses "room for improvement" as they look ahead to the next stage. The win also signaled the emotional end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career, with the Portuguese icon exiting the tournament in tears after Portugal's elimination. Spain's defensive solidity has been a standout feature of their campaign, with their backline potentially being the key to securing the trophy once again.

Meanwhile, the United States men's national team saw their World Cup dream crushed Belgium in a comprehensive 4-1 defeat. Despite the return of Folarin Balogun, the USMNT's campaign ended in the round of 16 for the second consecutive tournament, with questions arising about roster performance and potential distractions surrounding Balogun's eligibility. Belgian player Nicolas Raskin claimed that Fifa's decision to allow Balogun to play fired them up, adding another layer to the controversy that has embroiled the tournament. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment with "too many people" who introduced "politics and manipulation" into the game during the USMNT's exit and remained non-committal regarding his own future with the team. The USMNT's performance throughout the tournament was widely criticized, with a general sense of underperformance across the roster leading to a premature departure from the competition.

In other knockout action, England battled through a challenging match against Mexico, ultimately prevailing 3-2 to reach the quarterfinals. Jude Bellingham delivered a standout performance, while the team's defense held strong under immense pressure in the hostile environment of the Azteca Stadium. Coach Thomas Tuchel praised the team's "heroic" effort but also criticized officiating during the dramatic encounter. England's path to the final now includes a quarterfinal matchup against Norway, who are spearheaded by the prolific Erling Haaland. Haaland's masterclass sent Brazil crashing out, with his brace securing a 2-1 victory for Norway and marking the end of Neymar's international career for Brazil, who will now wait at least 28 years for another World Cup title.

France, after a tough encounter, survived Paraguay's physical approach to advance. Kylian Mbappé used his platform to condemn racist remarks made by a Paraguayan senator, labeling them "despicable" and unworthy of her position. Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, commented that there is "no truly dominant team" in the current World Cup, noting the difficulty even favored nations have in overcoming lower-ranked opponents in this tournament. Mexico's World Cup journey concluded, but the team was met with a warm reception upon their return home, with fans expressing pride in their performance despite the elimination.

The upcoming Champions League season is set to begin remarkably soon after the World Cup final, with the 2026-27 campaign kicking off just 38 days after the showpiece event. This compressed schedule involves numerous less-heralded clubs, each with their own compelling narratives as they embark on Europe's premier club competition.

Other Football News

In transfer news, there is significant speculation surrounding several Premier League clubs. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing a substantial £100 million bid for Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, which would represent a club record fee. Arsenal are also active, with reports suggesting they are eyeing a move for Manchester United's Aaron Wan-Bissaka as a potential replacement. Meanwhile, Manchester United are considering a move for Chelsea's Andrey Santos to address their midfield needs and are also interested in Bournemouth's Alex Scott. Newcastle United have also been busy, completing the signing of winger Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for a combined fee of £42 million and £43 million.

In other club news, Brentford is reportedly set to sign former England striker Callum Wilson after his departure from West Ham on a 12-month contract. They are also nearing a move for Burnley forward Jaidon Anthony for a fee that could rise to £17 million with add-ons for the attacker. Former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has become Nottingham Forest's fifth head coach in just over a year, replacing Vitor Pereira following his recent sacking. In Scotland, Rangers midfielders are linked with moves away from the club, with speculation also surrounding Celtic targets and St Johnstone's potential pursuit of a winger as transfer gossip continues.

The FA is considering an appeal after England defender Jarell Quansah received a red card in a recent match against Mexico and is expected to start at right-back in the upcoming quarter-final. England coach Thomas Tuchel expects Reece James to be available for the World Cup quarter-final against Norway on Saturday, though he remains doubtful for the match against Mexico after missing training.

The NWSL is back in action, with Trinity Rodman leading the Washington Spirit to the top of ESPN's Power Rankings following the men's World Cup break. In European club football, Aggie Beever-Jones has signed a new contract with Chelsea extending her stay at the club until 2030 as a promising forward. Arsenal have also secured the signing of German striker Selina Cerci from Hoffenheim on a free transfer adding to their attack.

In rugby league, Wigan Warriors secured a victory over St Helens in a fierce derby match at Magic Weekend with a 16-14 scoreline. Hull KR also claimed bragging rights in their derby against Hull FC with a 26-12 win at the same event. Leigh Leopards bolstered their Super League play-off aspirations with a commanding 24-6 victory over Warrington Wolves during Magic Weekend. Toulouse Olympique dominated the all-French clash at Magic Weekend, thrashing Catalans Dragons 60-18 in a high-scoring affair.

In other sports news, Arthur Fery's Wimbledon run continues as the British player reached the quarter-finals after a thrilling five-set victory. In golf, Chris Gotterup claimed the John Deere Classic title by finishing 20 under par after a strong final round. Michael Hollick secured his maiden DP World Tour title at the BMW International Open with a dramatic eagle on the final hole. Carolina Chacarra won her first Ladies European Tour title at the Hulencourt Women's Open in Belgium finishing 12 under par. Padraig Harrington successfully defended his US Senior Open title with a final round 66.

Formula 1 saw a chaotic British Grand Prix, with Charles Leclerc taking the victory for Ferrari. Kimi Antonelli's championship lead was significantly impacted by a technical failure that left him out of the points. Max Verstappen expressed frustration with his Red Bull car, citing a dangerous fault that affected his top speed and led to his withdrawal from the race during qualifying. Mercedes accepted blame for Antonelli's mechanical failure, which likely cost him victory and points at Silverstone.