Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama and Player Departures

The FIFA World Cup has seen a dramatic shift in its knockout stages, with several prominent figures exiting the tournament. Cristiano Ronaldo's storied World Cup career came to an end following Portugal's 1-0 round of 16 defeat to Spain. An emotional Ronaldo stated he had a "clear conscience" as he departed what was his final World Cup appearance. Coach Roberto Martinez confirmed his departure from the Portugal job after the loss, though he denied the result was a "failure". Meanwhile, Spain's defense, which has been record-breaking, proved impenetrable against Portugal in their narrow victory.

In another significant match, the United States' World Cup journey concluded with a 4-1 loss to Belgium. The US game against Belgium set a new record as the most-watched soccer telecast in U.S. history, with preliminary ratings released on Tuesday . Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the tournament with an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained while playing for Belgium. The controversial Folarin Balogun red card situation saw FIFA suspend the ban for the US forward, allowing him to play against Belgium, a decision that drew criticism from UEFA and England coach Thomas Tuchel. Nicolas Raskin of Belgium suggested there was "justice somewhere in life" after their victory, referencing the Balogun controversy. Christian Pulisic was forced off with an ankle injury during the USMNT's loss.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, secured a late win against Egypt in a match that featured VAR drama and late heroics, advancing to the next stage. Egypt's head coach, Hossam Hassan, criticized the officiating after the match, claiming the World Cup was "directed towards Argentina". Neymar has stated his Brazil international career is "over" after their exit from the tournament following a defeat to Norway. Carlo Ancelotti's decision to call up Neymar was described as a gamble that "backfired badly".

European Powerhouses and Transfer Rumors

The European transfer market is heating up with several clubs reportedly targeting new talent. Liverpool have made contact for Mexico's "wonderkid" Gilberto Mora, while Arsenal's primary target is reportedly Morgan Rogers. Arsenal are also reportedly close to signing former Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer and German striker Selina Cerci. Tottenham are rumored to be preparing a significant bid for Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, potentially reaching £100m, and are also exploring a move for Bournemouth's Dango Ouattara. Newcastle United are also reportedly close to signing 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur and have completed the signing of forward Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim for £43 million. Chelsea midfielder Julia Bartel is nearing a move to Juventus.

In Spain, Real Madrid are reportedly plotting an £188m deal for Crystal Palace's Michael Olise and are set to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter Milan. Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana's injury also impacts club plans, as he ruptured his ACL while on World Cup duty. Former Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has been appointed manager of Ligue 1 club Paris FC.

England's World Cup Journey and Player Performances

England has advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Mexico. The match was described as one of England's "greatest knockout results", with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane being instrumental in the win. Bellingham's performance against Mexico has drawn comparisons to iconic English midfielders Steven Gerrard and Roy Keane. The team's success is heavily reliant on the attacking prowess of Kane and Bellingham, who have scored 10 of England's 11 goals in the tournament. England coach Thomas Tuchel praised his team's "heroic" performance but also voiced frustration with the referees, stating they "are just not good enough" 110. The FA is considering an appeal after defender Jarell Quansah received a red card against Mexico. England's medics are working to recover Reece James from injury in hopes he can participate in the quarter-final against Norway. The team's win over Mexico was watched by a peak audience of 9.1 million viewers in the UK.

The English team faced challenging conditions in Mexico City, including an electrical storm that approached the Azteca Stadium before their match. Mexico fans attempted to disturb England's sleep by setting off fireworks outside their hotel, but players reported little impact. Despite their World Cup exit, Mexico's run has brought joy to their community, particularly in Southern California.

Other Football News and Developments

The LA Galaxy has sent attacker Gabriel Pec to Brazilian side Cruzeiro for a club-record fee. Following the USMNT's World Cup exit, coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment with those who brought "politics and manipulation" into the game. He remained non-committal about his own future with the USMNT.

In European club football, TNS suffered a 2-0 defeat in Azerbaijan in the first qualifying round of the Champions League. Colombian forward Camilo Duran is reportedly poised to become Celtic's first summer signing. Scottish League Cup matches are set to commence, featuring four top-flight clubs. Burnley are progressing in talks to appoint Nicky Hayen as their new manager. Former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has become Nottingham Forest's fifth head coach in a year. Wrexham's manager, Phil Parkinson, is the longest-serving in the Championship but insists there is "a lot more work" ahead.

There are also reports of potential racism in football, with FIFA investigating alleged racist abuse involving American social media influencer IShow Speed and a supporter during Argentina's win over Cape Verde. A Paraguayan senator has demanded an apology from Kylian Mbappé amid a racism row. Wigan Warriors have expressed being "appalled" by racist abuse directed at Junior Nsemba after their victory over St Helens.

In women's football, Alexia Putellas' arrival at London City Lionesses is described as a "monumental moment" for the club and the WSL. Aggie Beever-Jones has signed a new contract with Chelsea until 2030. Willie Kirk has been appointed head coach of WSL 2 side Durham.

Other Sports News

In Formula, Max Verstappen expressed frustration with recurring car faults that led to a crash at the British Grand Prix, calling the issue "dangerous". Mercedes accepted blame for Kimi Antonelli's mechanical failure at the same race. Charles Leclerc won the chaotic British Grand Prix for Ferrari. The FIA has explained why the British Grand Prix was not restarted on the final lap. It is expected that F1 will feature more Sprint weekends in 2027 season.

In golf, Chris Gotterup won the John Deere Classic title with a final-round 62. Carolina Chacarra secured her maiden Ladies European Tour title at the Hulencourt Women's Open. Padraig Harrington defended his US Senior Open title. A YouTube golfer has been confirmed in the line-up for The Open's Last-Chance Qualifier.

In tennis, Naomi Osaka eliminated top seed Aryna Sabalenka at Wimbledon, while Novak Djokovic broke Roger Federer's record for match victories at the All England Club. Serena Williams hopes to play in a singles tournament before the US Open.

In rugby league, Wigan Warriors defeated St Helens 16-14 in a fierce derby match at Magic Weekend. Ash Handley scored a hat-trick in Leeds Rhinos' dominant 50-16 victory over Bradford Bulls.

In boxing, the heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua could be held at Wembley Stadium with a later start time. Murat Gassiev's opponent for his WBA heavyweight title defense has been confirmed.

In cricket, Australia secured their seventh Women's T20 World Cup title with a seven-wicket victory over England. England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt acknowledged her team was "outplayed" but proud of their runner-up finish. Sky Sports' Nasser Hussain commented that Australia was "too good" and England "too timid" in the final. England also defeated India by a record margin in a T20 international.

In horse racing, Sunray Shadow is aiming for a four-timer Uttoxeter.