Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 2:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockouts and Player Futures

The United States men's national team crashed out of the World Cup in the round of, suffering a comprehensive 4-1 defeat to Belgium. Despite the return of Folarin Balogun, the USMNT's tournament dream ended, with players like Christian Pulisic forced off injured. Belgium midfielder Nicolas Raskin suggested that beating the U.S. offered a form of "justice" following the controversy surrounding Balogun's suspension. Mauricio Pochettino offered no clarity on his future as USMNT coach following the exit, while the team will now look back at the 2026 World Cup as a missed opportunity.

Portugal's World Cup journey concluded with a 1-0 loss to Spain, marking the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career. An emotional Ronaldo stated he had a "clear conscience" as he exited what he confirmed would be his final tournament. Manager Roberto Martinez confirmed his departure from the Portugal coaching role, though he denied the loss constituted a "failure."

Elsewhere, Brazil faces a prolonged wait for their next World Cup triumph after their elimination, a fate that also befell Mexico despite their efforts to heal a four-year schism with the national team and set a plan for 2030. Carlo Ancelotti's gamble on Neymar backfired as Brazil exited in the round of. England secured an emotional last-16 victory over Mexico, their best win on foreign soil.

Club Transfers and Squad News

In transfer news, Colombian forward Camilo Duran is poised for a medical at Celtic as the club's first summer signing from Qarabag. Arsenal is reportedly set to secure goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer following his exit from Leeds United. Chelsea midfielder Julia Bartel is nearing a summer move to Juventus.

In other squad news, Liverpool's new head coach Andoni Iraola has begun preparations with his squad ahead of the Premier League season. England players will receive warnings about jumping over advertising hoardings after Jordan Henderson sustained a freak injury.

International Cricket and Olympic Developments

The third T20 international between England and India is underway at Trent Bridge, with England looking to extend their lead in the five-match series. In Olympic news, Russian athletes may be allowed to compete at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028, as the International Olympic Committee provisionally lifts its suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee.