Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Heat Up

Argentina has navigated a challenging path to the World Cup quarterfinals, with Lionel Messi once again proving to be the team's talisman. The Albiceleste secured their spot after an epic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, a match that saw Messi single-handedly drag his side back from a two-goal deficit dragged his team. The dramatic win, described as having "everything: Messi magic, VAR drama, underdog brilliance and another unforgettable World Cup moment" Messi magic, has thrilled the global sports community thrilled the sports world. Lautaro Martinez even shared an emotional moment with Messi after the game, telling the veteran to savor what is likely his "last WC" told emotional Messi. Meanwhile, Switzerland also advanced, holding their nerve to defeat Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout, their first shootout success in World Cups since 1954 beat Colombia 4-3, setting up a quarterfinal clash with the reigning champions, Argentina quarter-final meeting.

The United States' World Cup journey concluded with a significant impact on the betting world. Their run to the round of, culminating in a loss to Belgium, generated record betting handle, allowing American sportsbooks to profit considerably record soccer betting. The USMNT's final match against Belgium, a 4-1 defeat thrashed 4-1 by Belgium, also set a record as the most-watched soccer telecast in U.S. history most-watched soccer game. Belgium's victory was framed by their players as a form of "justice" after a controversial situation involving Folarin Balogun beating U.S. justice. The controversy surrounding Balogun's availability, after a red card was initially issued and then apparently overturned by FIFA, has drawn criticism from UEFA, who stated FIFA "crossed a red line" UEFA hits out. The entire saga has left the red card system in disarray red card system and prompted criticism of FIFA from various coaches, including England's Thomas Tuchel Tuchel criticises Fifa.

Managerial Moves and Transfer Rumors

Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new head coach at Fulham, signing a three-year contract appointed head coach. He succeeds Marco Silva, who departed for Benfica succeeding Marco Silva. In other managerial news, Liam Rosenior has returned to football management with Ligue 1 side Paris FC after his sacking from Chelsea named Paris FC manager.

Transfer speculation continues to swirl as the summer window heats up. Arsenal are reportedly making Morgan Rogers their primary target make Morgan Rogers target, while Liverpool have inquired about Mexico's young talent Gilberto Mora contact over move. Newcastle United are also closing in on a deal for Ajax midfielder Sean Steur signing Ajax's Steur.

Player News and International Departures

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career has come to an end, with Portugal's elimination by Spain marking his final appearance on the global stage Ronaldo's World Cup era. An emotional Ronaldo stated he had a "clear conscience" as he departed exit final World Cup, though his manager Roberto Martinez denied the result was a "failure" despite stepping down himself Martinez steps down. Neymar has also announced the end of his international career with Brazil following their World Cup exit Brazil career over, a result attributed in part to Erling Haaland's exceptional performance Haaland's masterclass.

In other player news, Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the World Cup due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury ruled out of World Cup, a blow for Aston Villa as well Villa Belgium midfielder. Meanwhile, the NWSL is back in action with the Washington Spirit topping ESPN's Power Rankings, largely due to the form of Trinity Rodman Rodman puts Spirit top.

Other Footballing Developments

The pay-to-play model in youth soccer continues to draw scrutiny, with a focus on parents' financial capacity rather than player development Pay-to-play youth soccer. In the NWSL, Gotham FC will share a new stadium in Queens beginning in 2028, marking their first home games within New York City limits share new Queens stadium. FIFA has opened an investigation into alleged racist abuse directed at social media influencer IShow Speed during Argentina's match against Cape Verde investigating alleged racist abuse. Meanwhile, the LA Galaxy have sold Gabriel Pec to Cruzeiro for a club-record fee Galaxy send Pec Cruzeiro.