Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 2:31 AM ET

World Cup Knockout Stages Take Shape

Spain secured top spot in Group H with a narrow 1-0 victory over Uruguay, but their progress was marred by a suspected broken collarbone that could sideline winger Yeremy Pino for the remainder of the tournament Spain win group. Coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the team's performance was less than convincing, stating they were "lucky to beat Uruguay" and will need considerable improvement to contend for the World Cup title listless performance. Uruguay, meanwhile, are eliminated following the defeat, with goalkeeper Fernando Muslera being substituted at halftime after a first-half blunder gifted Spain their decisive goal Uruguay out.

Belgium also advanced to the knockout rounds as group winners, routing New Zealand 5-1 thanks to a brace from Leandro Trossard Trossard hits double. Meanwhile, Iran narrowly missed out on second place in their group after a last-gasp goal was controversially overturned, though they still retain a chance to reach the knockouts Iran inches away. Cape Verde etched their name in history by becoming the smallest nation to reach the World Cup knockout stages, securing qualification with a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, who were subsequently eliminated smallest nation. England's progression to the round of 32 was confirmed by other results prior to their final group game against Panama England qualify.

Tactical Decisions and Player Availability

Norway's coach Stale Solbakken deemed resting star striker Erling Haaland and 10 other first-team players against France a "no-brainer" due to concerns over fatigue, despite the heavy 4-1 defeat No Haaland vs. France. France, meanwhile, saw Ousmane Dembélé score a hat-trick in their dominant performance Ballon d'Dembélé. Manager Didier Deschamps is expected to rejoin the squad after attending his mother's funeral Deschamps to rejoin.

In other team news, Austria and Algeria are reportedly prioritizing victory in their upcoming match, eschewing potentially beneficial tactical draws that could influence their knockout stage matchups Algeria, Austria, reject group math. Argentina's Lionel Messi is slated to start their final group game against Jordan on the bench, according to coach Lionel Scaloni Messi to start on bench. Thomas Tuchel has defended his full-back selections, confirming that Reece James will miss their next fixture due to injury Tuchel defends full-back selection.

Domestic and Other Football News

In North American club action, Gotham FC secured a 2-0 victory over the Kansas City Current in the Challenge Cup, with goals from Esther González and Jordynn Dudley Gotham tops Current. Meanwhile, the Northumberland Plate horse race day is scheduled from Newcastle, with all races available to watch live on Sky Sports Racing Northumberland Plate crown. Boxer Ben Whittaker is reportedly on a trajectory towards a world title fight, potentially facing Joshua Buatsi in the near future after his recent U.S. debut Whittaker could be 'close'.