Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama and Controversy

Spain cruised into the World Cup last 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria, a performance that has seemingly reignited their tournament swagger after a drought of knockout wins since their 2010 triumph Spain's tournament mojo returns. Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal, who was named MVP of the match, declared "the World Cup starts now" for the Spanish side Yamal declares World Cup begins. Meanwhile, controversy continues to swirl around U.S. international Folarin Balogun, whose red card incident against Bosnia and Herzegovina mirrors a similar situation involving Lionel Messi but resulted in a harsher penalty for the American Messi, Balogun tackles spark debate. Sources confirm the USMNT cannot appeal Balogun's red, potentially leading to an extended ban for the forward, a significant blow as the team prepares to face Belgium without its top scorer USMNT shows it can.

Club Transfers and Player Movements

Manchester City have confirmed a deal to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, bolstering their squad. In women's football, Gotham FC forward Sam Kerr stated that the NWSL was her "only choice" for a return after her departure from Chelsea, maintaining her status as the league's all-time leading scorer Kerr returns to NWSL.

UEFA Rules and Tournament Updates

UEFA has confirmed that players will not face red cards for covering their mouths while speaking to opponents in Champions League matches, a clarification following recent discussions. On the international stage, England's Women's T20 World Cup final berth was secured with a "close to complete" performance against South Africa, with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt expressing relief after overcoming pre-match nerves Sciver-Brunt leads England to final. England's upcoming World Cup last-16 tie against Mexico will be broadcast live on BBC One, alongside three other matches Four last-16 ties on BBC.