Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Take Center Stage as Major Upsets and Controversies Emerge

The FIFA World Cup is down to its final eight teams, with a European dominance evident as six of the quarterfinalists hail from the continent. This stage of the tournament is proving to be a showcase for individual brilliance, with superstars like Lionel Messi and Jude Bellingham carrying significant weight for their respective nations. Argentina, despite manager Lionel Scaloni's assertion that there is "no truly dominant team", advanced after a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt, a match marked by VAR controversy and accusations of bias from the Egyptian FA, 68. The Egyptian FA has formally complained to FIFA, demanding an investigation into perceived double standards in officiating. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi, seemingly dragging his team toward another final, was praised by Lautaro Martinez to enjoy what is likely his last World Cup. Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career has concluded with Portugal's 1-0 round of 16 exit against Spain, 132. Manager Roberto Martinez confirmed his departure from the Portuguese job, stating the team "didn't fail" despite the loss. The United States' World Cup journey also ended in the round of, a 4-1 defeat to Belgium that set betting records and proved to be the most-watched soccer telecast in U.S. history, 89. Belgium players expressed satisfaction with the win, deeming it "justice" after perceived controversies surrounding the U.S. team. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment with extraneous factors influencing the U.S. campaign. Christian Pulisic was forced off with an ankle injury during the match against Belgium. Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the tournament with an ACL injury sustained while playing for his country. Switzerland continued their historic World Cup run by eliminating Colombia, setting up a quarterfinal clash with Argentina. The focus now shifts to the quarterfinal matchups, with intriguing duels and potential revenge narratives as the tournament progresses. England's last-16 victory over Mexico, which drew a peak audience of.1 million viewers, has highlighted their reliance on Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have scored 10 of the team's 11 goals. Manager Thomas Tuchel expects Reece James to be available for the quarterfinal against Norway, despite an ongoing defensive crisis. Women's Football Sees Landmark Signing and League Expansion

In a seismic move for women's football, two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has signed a three-year deal with London City Lionesses, 121. This transfer is being hailed as one of the biggest in the sport's history and is expected to significantly elevate the profile of the Women's Super League. Meanwhile, Gotham FC and NYCFC will share a new stadium in Queens, New York, starting in 2028, marking the first time the reigning NWSL champions will play within city limits. Arsenal has also been active, signing Swiss midfielder Geraldine Reuteler from Eintracht Frankfurt, while Chelsea midfielder Julia Bartel is reportedly closing in on a move to Juventus.

Coaching Carousel and Transfer Rumors Swirl Across Europe

Portugal's Football Federation is reportedly close to announcing Jorge Jesus as the successor to Roberto Martinez, with a decision anticipated by the end of the week. Elsewhere, Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as Fulham's new head coach, and Liam Rosenior has taken the managerial reins at Ligue 1 club Paris FC. In the Championship, Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is urging patience amid a slow start to the transfer window, while acknowledging five successful years at the club but insisting there is "a lot more work" ahead. Burnley are progressing in talks to appoint Genk's Nicky Hayen as their new boss.

Transfer speculation continues to dominate headlines. Paris Saint-Germain, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea are reportedly vying for the signature of USMNT striker Folarin Balogun. Liverpool has made contact regarding Mexico wonderkid Gilberto Mora, and Arsenal's main transfer target is reportedly Morgan Rogers, with Liverpool also interested in the player. Newcastle United are nearing a deal for 18-year-old Ajax midfielder Sean Steur. Camilo Duran is poised to become Celtic's first summer signing, arriving from Qarabag, and Partick Thistle goalkeeper Josh Clarke has moved to Doncaster Rovers on a loan deal that could become permanent.

Other Sporting News

In golf, Scottie Scheffler is determined to defend his Open title, expressing frustration over near-misses on the PGA Tour. Rory McIlroy views the Genesis Scottish Open as ideal preparation for The Open. Meanwhile, a YouTube golf star has been included in the Last-Chance Qualifier for The Open.

In boxing, former bantamweight world champion Jason Moloney has signed a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing.

In darts, Beau Greaves has made history by becoming the first woman to qualify for the European Tour.

Formula 1's 2027 season is set to feature an increased number of Sprint weekends. Lando Norris acknowledged McLaren's significant performance gap to rivals despite a fourth-place finish at the British Grand Prix. George Russell admitted he needs to improve to remain in championship contention.

In rugby, England's back-three selection headache continues following injuries to Cadan Murley and Beno Obano. New South Wales secured a dominant 30-12 victory over Queensland in the State of Origin decider, with Cleary starring for the Maroons.

In cricket, Tammy Beaumont announced her retirement from international cricket following the Rothesay Test match against India. India's captain Shreyas Iyer branded his side's record T20 defeat as "atrocious".

In tennis, Novak Djokovic won a grueling five-set match to set up a Wimbledon semifinal against Jannik Sinner. Britain's Arthur Fery reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals, playing in front of Roger Federer. Serena Williams plans to continue her singles comeback with hopes of playing before the US Open.

In horse racing, Sunray Shadow is aiming for a fourth consecutive win at Uttoxeter. Waterford Castle is seeking its first success at Yarmouth.

In motorsports, the Culture Secretary expressed dismay as the IOC provisionally lifted the ban on Russian athletes, potentially allowing them to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Wigan Warriors have expressed outrage over racist abuse directed at Junior Nsemba.

Finally, in a peculiar incident, Paraguayan senator Yolanda Paredes has demanded an apology from Kylian Mbappé over alleged racism and threatened legal action for "gender-based violence".