Sports News

USA crashes out after 4–1 defeat to Belgium

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Belgium defeated the USA 4–1 in the World Cup, eliminating the host country from the tournament. The loss was unexpected and surprised many fans.

Key Facts

Belgium won the match against the USA with a score of 4–1.
The USA was the host nation for the World Cup.
The defeat caused the USA team to exit the tournament.
The result shocked many fans watching the game.
The match marked the end of the USA’s World Cup run.

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Al Jazeera

FIFA World Cup: Argentina vs Egypt, Ronaldo exit and Mbappe condemns racism

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The World Cup is in a critical phase, with important matches like Argentina vs Egypt and Switzerland vs Colombia deciding which teams move on to the quarterfinals. The tournament also marked Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup, while Kylian Mbappe spoke out against racism, and the USA was eliminated after losing to Belgium.

Key Facts

Argentina faces Egypt in Atlanta to defend their World Cup title.
Switzerland plays Colombia in Vancouver for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Argentina is favored to win against Egypt, with a 69.1% chance of victory in 90 minutes.
Colombia is slightly favored over Switzerland, with a 41.9% chance of winning in regular time.
Cristiano Ronaldo ended his World Cup career after Portugal’s defeat and said he was sad but proud.
The United States lost 4-1 to Belgium, ending their hopes in the tournament.
Kylian Mbappe made public statements against racism during the event.
The USA’s exit was marked by injuries and mistakes, and coach Mauricio Pochettino showed visible frustration.

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Al Jazeera

Fifa accuses Uefa of hypocrisy in latest war of words over Folarin Balogun decision

July 07, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

Fifa defended its decision to lift the suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun after he received a red card, saying this kind of action is common in football leagues. Uefa criticized Fifa, saying overturning the suspension breaks World Cup rules and affects the competition’s fairness. The case involved lobbying from President Donald Trump and high-level officials, but Fifa says its disciplinary committee acted independently.

Key Facts

Folarin Balogun, a USA soccer player, had his red card suspension lifted by Fifa before a World Cup match against Belgium.
Uefa called this decision “crossing a red line” because World Cup rules automatically suspend players after red cards.
Fifa said overturning red cards is common in many football leagues and defended their decision as balanced and normal.
The disciplinary committee did not cancel the red card but suspended its effect for probation.
President Donald Trump and other White House officials lobbied Fifa to review Balogun’s suspension.
Fifa’s executive president, Gianni Infantino, denied involvement in the decision.
The disciplinary committee explained its process is independent from Fifa’s executive branch.
This is the first time such a last-minute red card suspension lift has happened at a World Cup.

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Guardian US

Switzerland vs Colombia: World Cup last 16: Prediction, start time and news

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Switzerland and Colombia will play against each other in the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The match takes place on July 7 at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada, with both teams aiming to reach the quarterfinals for a strong tournament finish.

Key Facts

The game is on Tuesday, July 7, at 1pm local time (20:00 GMT) in Vancouver, Canada.
Switzerland topped Group B and won their Round of 32 match 2-0 against Algeria, their first knockout win since 1938.
Colombia won Group K and beat Ghana 1-0 in the Round of 32, conceding just one goal so far.
Swiss player Johan Manzambi, 20 years old, has scored three goals and made two assists, becoming a key player for Switzerland.
Switzerland’s attacking players Manzambi, Breel Embolo, Dan Ndoye, and Ruben Vargas scored eight of the team’s nine goals in the tournament.
Colombia coach Nestor Lorenzo praised his team’s versatility, technical skills, and ability to adapt to different game situations.
Switzerland aims to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, while Colombia tries to repeat their best 2014 performance reaching the last eight.
Fans can follow pre-match coverage and live text commentary on Al Jazeera Sport starting at 16:45 GMT.

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Al Jazeera

World Cup 2026: USA bounced out by Belgium after Balogun furore; backlash against Fifa builds – live

July 07, 2026 • Guardian US

Summary

The USA was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing 4-1 to Belgium in the round of 16. The USA team said that a controversy about player Folarin Balogun’s red card did not affect their performance. Portugal also left the tournament after a 1-0 loss to Spain.

Key Facts

The USA lost 4-1 to Belgium in Seattle during the World Cup round of 16.
Folarin Balogun, a USA player, received a red card which caused a controversy, but the team denied it influenced their loss.
Belgium’s social media reacted strongly to the red card event.
Portugal was knocked out by Spain with a 1-0 score in Dallas, marking Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup.
The tournament will continue with Argentina vs. Egypt and Switzerland vs. Colombia in the remaining round of 16 matches.
The USA co-hosted the World Cup along with other countries.
The last 16 matches are part of the knockout rounds leading to the final on July 19.

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Guardian US

The man who invented a sport and played tennis with Willy Wonka

July 07, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Brad Parks, who was paralyzed in a skiing accident, created the sport of wheelchair tennis 50 years ago. He developed the rules and helped grow it until it became a recognized sport played in major tournaments like the Grand Slams and Paralympics.

Key Facts

Brad Parks was 18 when he had a skiing accident that left him paralyzed.
He came up with the idea of wheelchair tennis while watching family play tennis in Indiana.
Parks started playing tennis daily despite using a standard hospital wheelchair.
He partnered with physiotherapist Jeff Minnebraker to develop rules for wheelchair tennis.
The main rule difference is allowing the ball to bounce twice before being returned.
The first wheelchair tennis event was held in 1977 in California, which Parks won.
Early tournaments took place on public courts with poor conditions and no professional officials.
The sport has since grown, becoming part of major events like the Paralympics.

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BBC Top Stories

Sorry USA riled for World Cup thrashing by Belgium despite Balogun reprieve

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

The United States men's soccer team lost 4-1 to Belgium in the World Cup round of 16. The match attracted attention not only for the score but also because FIFA allowed US player Folarin Balogun to play despite a ban, following intervention linked to President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

Belgium defeated the USA 4-1 in the World Cup last-16 match.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice for Belgium, contributing to their win.
Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension was lifted by FIFA before the match, allowing him to start.
US President Donald Trump’s involvement played a role in the ban being overturned.
Belgium players celebrated with a dance resembling President Trump’s signature move.
The US team’s performance was widely criticized on social media.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the match along with officials from Belgium and the US.
There were ongoing controversies around FIFA’s decisions during the tournament, including visa issues affecting teams and referees.

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Al Jazeera

At the World Cup, Egypt coach says anyone who doesn’t feel for Palestinian people is ‘not human’

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

Egypt’s soccer coach Hossam Hassan spoke about the suffering of Palestinians during a news conference before Egypt’s World Cup match against Argentina. He urged people around the world to show compassion for Palestinians and highlighted the human impact of the conflict in Gaza.

Key Facts

Egypt defeated Australia in the World Cup round of 32 and prepared to play Argentina in the round of 16.
Coach Hossam Hassan waved a Palestinian flag after the victory and spoke for over four minutes about the Palestinian situation.
He said anyone who does not feel sympathy for Palestinians is "not human," regardless of nationality or religion.
Over 2 million Palestinians in Gaza face hardship after a war sparked by a Hamas attack and Israel’s response, which has killed over 73,000 Palestinians.
Hassan compared the global reaction to animal suffering with the lack of similar response to human deaths in Gaza.
FIFA allows the Palestinian flag to be displayed at the World Cup.
Hassan expressed hope for respect and peace, calling for recognition of people’s right to live.
Egypt aims to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time with this match against Argentina.

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AP News

World Cup: Spain knock out Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo

July 07, 2026 • France24

Summary

Spain won 1-0 against Portugal in the World Cup round of 16 and advanced to the quarter-finals. This match was the last World Cup game for Cristiano Ronaldo. All the countries hosting the tournament, including the United States, have now been eliminated.

Key Facts

Spain beat Portugal 1-0 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals.
Cristiano Ronaldo played his final World Cup match in this game.
The United States, one of the host nations, lost to Belgium and was knocked out.
Spain’s young player Lamine Yamal (19) was involved in the match.
Other recent sports updates include Tadej Pogacar leading the Tour de France and Arthur Féry progressing at Wimbledon.
The French basketball team beat Finland and moved closer to qualifying for the 2027 Basketball World Cup.

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France24

'Overturn this' – Belgium taunt US and say Trump move fired them up

July 07, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Belgium’s soccer team felt unfairly treated after Fifa suspended a one-match ban for US striker Folarin Balogun just before their World Cup match. Despite the controversy and President Donald Trump asking Fifa to review the case, Belgium won the game 4-1 and reacted with gestures mocking the situation.

Key Facts

Folarin Balogun, a US striker, was given a red card but had his automatic one-match ban suspended by Fifa before the World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium.
Belgium midfielder Nicolas Raskin said his team felt a “sense of injustice” and wanted to respond on the field.
Belgium won the match against the US with a score of 4-1.
Belgium players celebrated by doing a dance similar to President Trump’s “Trump dance” from his 2024 campaign.
The Belgium national team’s official Instagram posted a picture of Romelu Lukaku with the caption “overturn this,” mocking the controversy.
President Donald Trump confirmed he asked Fifa to review Balogun’s ban because he believed the foul was not serious.
Belgium’s football association appealed the decision but was ruled not eligible to contest it.
US and international soccer officials, including England’s coach Thomas Tuchel and Uefa, criticized Fifa’s ruling as setting a bad example.

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BBC Top Stories BBC US

Runner becomes fastest woman to complete the three peaks challenge on foot

July 07, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Trish Patterson became the fastest woman to complete the Three Peaks Challenge on foot, finishing in five days and 21 hours. She ran between the three highest peaks in the UK—Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Yr Wyddfa—covering 425 miles and raising money for a mental health charity.

Key Facts

Trish Patterson is from Hythe, Hampshire, and is 41 years old.
She completed the challenge in five days and 21 hours, beating the previous record of six days and over five hours.
The challenge involved climbing Scotland’s Ben Nevis, England’s Scafell Pike, and Wales’ Yr Wyddfa.
Patterson ran between the peaks, covering a total distance of 425 miles with over 10,000 meters of elevation gain.
She raised money for the charity Mind Over Mountains in memory of a close friend.
She survived on just 90 minutes of sleep each night during the challenge.
Patterson was supported by friends and family along the way.
She plans to take time off after the challenge and return to lighter running activities.

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BBC Top Stories

Fans react to US loss after red card drama

July 07, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The US soccer team lost to Belgium in the World Cup after a controversial red card incident. President Donald Trump said he spoke with FIFA before the US player Folarin Balogun’s one-game ban was suspended, leading to mixed reactions among fans.

Key Facts

The US lost to Belgium in the FIFA World Cup.
The loss followed a red card given to US player Folarin Balogun.
Balogun’s one-game suspension was later canceled.
President Donald Trump said he contacted FIFA before the suspension was lifted.
Some fans felt the world was against the US team.
The incident caused debate and strong reactions among supporters.
The US was hosting the World Cup during this event.

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BBC Top Stories BBC US

Egyptians dream of toppling Argentina in historic World Cup match

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Egypt’s national football team, known as the Pharaohs, is preparing to face Argentina in the World Cup round-of-16 match in Atlanta. This game is the first time Egypt has reached this stage and has become a major event, creating pride and excitement across the country. The team gained attention not only for their play but also because of their coach’s support for Palestine, which sparked reactions in Israeli media.

Key Facts

Egypt is playing Argentina, the current world champions, in the World Cup round-of-16.
This is Egypt’s first time reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup.
The match is happening in Atlanta, United States.
Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan showed support for Palestine after Egypt’s win over Australia.
Israeli media criticized the Egyptian team and urged support for Argentina.
Fans across Egypt are celebrating and feeling proud of the team’s achievement.
Key players praised include captain Mohamed Salah and Emam Ashour.
Many fans hope Egypt can advance to the quarterfinals, inspired by Morocco’s success in the previous World Cup.

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Al Jazeera

The US World Cup dream ends in shambolic fashion - did red card saga play a part?

July 07, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

The United States men's soccer team lost 4-1 to Belgium in the World Cup round of 16, ending their hopes of winning the tournament. The game followed controversy over a red card suspension being lifted for US player Folarin Balogun, a decision that drew criticism from fans, officials, and even President Donald Trump.

Key Facts

The US was defeated by Belgium with a score of 4-1 in the World Cup round of 16.
This was the US team's heaviest World Cup defeat since 1990.
US player Folarin Balogun had a red card from a previous match suspended, allowing him to play against Belgium.
FIFA's decision to lift Balogun's suspension faced criticism from UEFA, Belgium, England’s coach Thomas Tuchel, and US President Donald Trump.
President Trump publicly asked FIFA to review the decision, stating he did not believe Balogun's foul deserved a red card.
US coach Mauricio Pochettino said the controversy did not affect the team’s performance.
Balogun struggled in the game and spoke with Belgium’s coach Rudi Garcia after the match.
The US had started the tournament with confidence but lost momentum in this match.

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BBC Top Stories BBC US

Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career ends as Spain defeat Portugal

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Cristiano Ronaldo played his final World Cup match when Portugal lost 1-0 to Spain in the round of 16. The 41-year-old scored 11 goals in 27 World Cup games during his international career.

Key Facts

Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup game was a loss to Spain.
The match ended with a 1-0 score in favor of Spain.
Ronaldo is 41 years old.
He played in 27 World Cup matches.
Ronaldo scored 11 goals in World Cup tournaments.
The loss happened in the round of 16, which is an early knockout stage.

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Al Jazeera

Zlatan Ibrahimovic Says USMNT Got World Cup 'Reality Check' From Belgium

July 07, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The United States Men's National Soccer Team lost to Belgium 4-1 in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. Belgium scored early and kept control, while the USMNT struggled, especially after key player Christian Pulisic was injured during the match.

Key Facts

Belgium scored four goals against the USMNT, with two goals by Charles De Ketelaere, one by Hans Vanaken, and one by Romelu Lukaku.
The USMNT scored once from a free kick by Malik Tillman.
The USMNT had 57% ball possession but managed only six shots, with two on target.
Belgium had 15 shots, including seven on target, leading to four goals.
Christian Pulisic, a key US player, was injured in the second half and had to leave the game.
Folarin Balogun, initially suspended, had his red card ban lifted and played for Belgium after an appeal was denied.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a Fox Sports analyst, called the match a "reality check" for the US team.
Belgium will face Spain next in the World Cup quarterfinals, while the US team is out and will prepare for future tournaments.

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Newsweek

Belgium Trolls USMNT With 2-Word Message After Advancing at World Cup

July 07, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Belgium defeated the United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) 4-1 in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match took place on July 6 at Lumen Field, with Belgium advancing to the quarterfinals to face Spain.

Key Facts

Folarin Balogun, a USMNT striker, had a one-game suspension reversed by FIFA, allowing him to play against Belgium.
Belgium's Football Association was surprised by FIFA's decision and tried to appeal Balogun's eligibility.
Belgium defeated the USMNT 4-1 in the Round of 16 match.
Belgium scored early with Charles De Ketelaere in the ninth minute.
USMNT's Malik Tillman scored a free-kick goal in the 31st minute.
Belgium scored three more goals, including one from Romelu Lukaku in stoppage time.
The USMNT has been eliminated in the Round of 16 in five of its last six World Cup appearances.
Belgium will face Spain in the quarterfinal at SoFi Stadium on July 10.

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Newsweek

World Cup what to know: Argentina’s Lionel Messi faces Egypt’s Mohamed Salah for spot in quarters

July 07, 2026 • AP News

Summary

The 2026 World Cup round of 16 features a key match between Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Egypt’s Mohamed Salah to decide who advances to the quarterfinals. Other top players like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane have also helped their teams reach this stage. Colombia will play Switzerland in Vancouver to continue their unique journey across all three host countries.

Key Facts

Lionel Messi has scored seven goals in four matches and is tied for the top scorer so far in the tournament.
Messi has scored in eight straight World Cup games, a record that started with the 2022 World Cup.
Mohamed Salah has scored three goals in this World Cup, setting a record for Egypt.
Egypt won their first World Cup match and knockout game in this tournament.
The match between Argentina and Egypt will decide which star player’s team moves on in the World Cup.
Colombia is the only team to play matches in all three hosting countries: Mexico, the U.S., and Canada.
Colombia’s next game will be against Switzerland in Vancouver, Canada.
Other star players like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane have helped their teams reach the quarterfinals.

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AP News

‘Overturn this’: victorious Belgium throw barb after Balogun red-card controversy

July 07, 2026 • Guardian World

Summary

Belgium won 4-1 against the United States to reach the World Cup quarter-finals. The match followed a controversy where US player Folarin Balogun was allowed to play despite a red card because President Donald Trump lobbied to overturn his suspension.

Key Facts

Belgium beat the United States 4-1 to move into the World Cup quarter-finals.
US striker Folarin Balogun received a red card in the previous match but was allowed to play against Belgium after the suspension was overturned.
President Donald Trump lobbied for Balogun’s red card to be overturned.
UEFA called the decision to overturn the red card “incomprehensible and unjustifiable.”
Belgium’s team used the controversy as extra motivation to win the match.
Belgium’s captain Youri Tielemans said the team focused on playing well instead of arguing about the situation.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said the US showed a lack of respect toward Belgium before the match.
Belgium will play Spain in the next round for a chance to reach the semi-finals.

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Guardian World Guardian US

Anyone who doesn’t feel for Palestinians is not human: Egypt coach Hassan

July 07, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Summary

Egypt’s football coach, Hossam Hassan, expressed strong support for the Palestinian people during a press conference before Egypt’s World Cup match against Argentina. He dedicated Egypt’s recent win to Palestinians, waved their flag, and called for respect for their right to live amid ongoing violence in Gaza.

Key Facts

Hossam Hassan is the coach of Egypt’s national football team.
He dedicated Egypt’s World Cup knockout win over Australia to the Palestinian people.
Hassan waved the Palestinian flag at the World Cup after the victory.
He spoke about the suffering of Palestinians and condemned the current violence in Gaza.
Israeli attacks have killed over 73,000 people in Gaza since October 7, including more than 20,000 children.
Hassan described his support as a human reaction, beyond religion or nationality.
Egypt faces Argentina in the World Cup round of 16; a win would take Egypt to the quarterfinals for the first time.
Hassan said his team respects their opponents but will focus on their own performance and represents Egypt, the Arab world, and Africa.

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Al Jazeera

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