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The Football Association (FA) is considering appealing to FIFA in an attempt to overturn Jarell Quansah's red card before England's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against Norway. According to ESPN, the FA are exploring legal options to have Quansah's suspension rescinded after pointing to the precedent involving United States forward Folarin Balogun, whose automatic one-match ban was suspended by FIFA following intervention from US President Donald Trump and the legal team representing US Soccer.&nbsp;Balogun was subsequently cleared to play in the United States' Round of 16 clash against Belgium, a decision that sparked criticism from the Belgian Football Association. Quansah was sent off during England's dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium after a VAR review upgraded his challenge on Mexico defender Jesus Gallardo to a red card. Despite playing with 10 men, England held on to secure a memorable victory and book their place in the quarterfinals. As things currently stand, Quansah will miss Saturday's last-eight clash against Norway in Miami.<h2>British MP urges FIFA to delay Quansah's ban</h2>The debate surrounding Quansah's suspension has also reached British politics. Labour Party MP Noah Law has written to FIFA President Gianni Infantino requesting that Quansah's one-match suspension be delayed until after the World Cup. Law argued that FIFA should apply disciplinary rules consistently, especially after Balogun's suspension was postponed under similar circumstances. In his letter to Infantino, Law wrote, "I hope this letter finds you well. As I'm sure you are aware, during this morning's World Cup game between England and Mexico, our formidable right-back Jarell Quansah unfortunately received a red card for a clumsy tackle on a Mexico player. Whilst I believe that it was right for Jarell Quansah to have received this red card and that refereeing rules must be applied consistently, I believe it would be right to delay his suspension until after the completion of this World Cup."&nbsp;Law further stressed the importance of equal treatment for every nation participating in the tournament. “We know that a similar situation arose earlier in the competition when United States forward Folarin Balogun received a red card during the Round of 32. The integrity of any major international tournament depends not only on players and officials adhering to the rules, but also on those rules being applied equally to all participating nations. I am sure we will be unable to justify a situation in which one player benefits from a delayed suspension while another, in materially similar circumstances, does not. At a time when our multilateral system and the international rules-based order is under threat, I urge you to treat this matter with the utmost seriousness. I look forward to hearing from you and learning the outcome of this decision.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roberto-martinez-steps-down-as-portugal-coach-after-world-cup-exit-against-spain-1783376026790">Roberto Martinez steps down as Portugal coach after World Cup exit against Spain</a>

USA vs Belgium

<h2>Belgium's challenge rejected by FIFA</h2>The controversy follows FIFA's decision to suspend the implementation of Balogun's automatic one-match ban under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Belgium challenged Balogun's eligibility before their Round of 16 match, but FIFA's Appeals Committee dismissed the complaint. According to FIFA, the Royal Belgian Football Association's request was ruled inadmissible because the federation was “not a party to the proceedings and, as such, has no standing to appeal the decision.” The Belgian federation acknowledged FIFA's ruling and confirmed it was considering other legal avenues available to it.<h2>Trump's intervention</h2>Balogun's case attracted worldwide attention after US President Donald Trump publicly confirmed that he had spoken to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the striker's suspension. Trump defended Balogun's challenge, insisting it should never have resulted in a red card. "I spoke to Gianni who's highly respected. That wasn't a foul, that wasn't even an infraction, that was two guys running full speed that happened to crash into each other. You... you can't take your foot and properly place it on somebody else's foot when you're going... No, these were two great athletes that got tangled up and this referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past. I don't want to say that because I don't like to create controversy. But very suspect. He (Balogun) didn't do anything wrong, and he's one of our best players, a very vital player, and he gave him a red card. So, yes I asked for a review by FIFA. I spoke to a man who's highly respected. I asked for a review because I didn't think it was a foul."&nbsp;Following that intervention, FIFA announced that Balogun's automatic suspension had been suspended under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee said, “By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year.” With England now weighing a similar appeal for Quansah, FIFA could once again find itself at the centre of a major World Cup disciplinary controversy ahead of the quarterfinals.

England may appeal Jarell Quansah's World Cup red card after FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's ban, with Donald Trump's intervention adding to the controversy

The Football Association (FA) is considering appealing to FIFA in an attempt to overturn Jarell Quansah's red card before England's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against Norway. According to ESPN, the FA are exploring legal options to have Quansah's suspension rescinded after pointing to the precedent involving United States forward Folarin Balogun, whose automatic one-match ban was suspended by FIFA following intervention from US President Donald Trump and the legal team representing US Soccer. Balogun was subsequently cleared to play in the United States' Round of 16 clash against Belgium, a decision that sparked criticism from the Belgian Football Association. Quansah was sent off during England's dramatic 3-2 victory over Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium after a VAR review upgraded his challenge on Mexico defender Jesus Gallardo to a red card. Despite playing with 10 men, England held on to secure a memorable victory and book their place in the quarterfinals. As things currently stand, Quansah will miss Saturday's last-eight clash against Norway in Miami. British MP urges FIFA to delay Quansah's ban The debate surrounding Quansah's suspension has also reached British politics. Labour Party MP Noah Law has written to FIFA President Gianni Infantino requesting that Quansah's one-match suspension be delayed until after the World Cup. Law argued that FIFA should apply disciplinary rules consistently, especially after Balogun's suspension was postponed under similar circumstances. In his letter to Infantino, Law wrote, "I hope this letter finds you well. As I'm sure you are aware, during this morning's World Cup game between England and Mexico, our formidable right-back Jarell Quansah unfortunately received a red card for a clumsy tackle on a Mexico player. Whilst I believe that it was right for Jarell Quansah to have received this red card and that refereeing rules must be applied consistently, I believe it would be right to delay his suspension until after the completion of this World Cup." Law further stressed the importance of equal treatment for every nation participating in the tournament. “We know that a similar situation arose earlier in the competition when United States forward Folarin Balogun received a red card during the Round of 32. The integrity of any major international tournament depends not only on players and officials adhering to the rules, but also on those rules being applied equally to all participating nations. I am sure we will be unable to justify a situation in which one player benefits from a delayed suspension while another, in materially similar circumstances, does not. At a time when our multilateral system and the international rules-based order is under threat, I urge you to treat this matter with the utmost seriousness. I look forward to hearing from you and learning the outcome of this decision.” Also Read: Roberto Martinez steps down as Portugal coach after World Cup exit against Spain

England are considering appealing Jarell Quansah's World Cup red card after FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's ban in a similar case

England consider FIFA appeal to overturn Jarell Quansah's red card after controversial Balogun decision

Roberto Martinez has confirmed he is stepping down as Portugal head coach following the team's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Portugal's World Cup campaign ended with a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 at AT&amp;T Stadium on Monday, bringing Martinez's three-and-a-half-year tenure to a close. Portugal had reached the knockout stage after defeating Croatia 2-1 in the previous round and finishing second in their group behind Colombia. However, their hopes of lifting the World Cup ended when Spain scored a dramatic late winner to book a place in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;Following the defeat, Martinez officially announced that his time in charge of the Portuguese national team had come to an end.“It’s the end of the cycle. It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader,” Martinez said after the Spain game. The former Belgium and Everton manager explained that he had arrived at the tournament with only one objective, to win the World Cup, and believed it was the right time to move on after falling short.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldo-breaks-down-in-tears-as-spain-s-last-gasp-goal-ends-his-fifa-world-cup-career-1783374896819">WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down in tears as Spain's last-gasp goal ends his FIFA World Cup career</a>

“It had not been decided previously (that I would leave after the tournament). I came with the goal to win the World Cup, and because I did not win, it does not make sense to continue." Martinez reflected fondly on his spell in charge of Portugal and described it as one of the defining experiences of his coaching career. “I take with myself the memories, and hope that Portugal has good memories in the three and a half years I was head coach of the team. It was the experience of my life.”&nbsp;Martinez departs after overseeing Portugal through three and a half years that included major international tournaments and the final chapter of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career.

Roberto Martinez has stepped down as Portugal coach after the team's World Cup exit against Spain, saying it is time for a new voice, a new leader

Roberto Martinez has confirmed he is stepping down as Portugal head coach following the team's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Portugal's World Cup campaign ended with a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16 at AT&T Stadium on Monday, bringing Martinez's three-and-a-half-year tenure to a close. Portugal had reached the knockout stage after defeating Croatia 2-1 in the previous round and finishing second in their group behind Colombia. However, their hopes of lifting the World Cup ended when Spain scored a dramatic late winner to book a place in the quarterfinals. Following the defeat, Martinez officially announced that his time in charge of the Portuguese national team had come to an end. “It’s the end of the cycle. It’s important to have a new voice, a new leader,” Martinez said after the Spain game. The former Belgium and Everton manager explained that he had arrived at the tournament with only one objective, to win the World Cup, and believed it was the right time to move on after falling short. Also Read: WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down in tears as Spain's last-gasp goal ends his FIFA World Cup career

Roberto Martinez has resigned as Portugal coach after their FIFA World Cup exit to Spain in the Round of 16, saying it is ‘the end of the cycle’

Roberto Martinez steps down as Portugal coach after World Cup exit against Spain

Cristiano Ronaldo's remarkable FIFA World Cup journey came to an emotional end as Portugal were knocked out of the 2026 tournament following a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. Substitute Mikel Merino scored deep into second-half stoppage time to send Spain into the quarter-finals and end Ronaldo's final appearance on football's biggest stage. The 41-year-old Portugal captain, who made his World Cup debut in 2006, had already confirmed before the match that the 2026 edition would be his last.&nbsp;Following the final whistle, Ronaldo was overcome with emotion as tears streamed down his face. The Portuguese superstar was comforted by teammates while supporters inside the stadium in Dallas rose to applaud one of football's greatest-ever players.Spain's victory secured their first World Cup quarter-final appearance since lifting their only FIFA World Cup title in South Africa in 2010. They will now face either the United States or Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday. Portugal had been aiming to reach consecutive World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history, but Spain's late breakthrough ended those hopes and brought Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career to a close.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ronaldo didn’t lose against Spain, Portugal did This is the End ! <a href="https://t.co/6fvT5kKSQ0">pic.twitter.com/6fvT5kKSQ0</a>&mdash; 𝐍𝐢𝐤𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐬🏖️ (@NikolasRMFC) <a href="https://x.com/NikolasRMFC/status/2074240199396102621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Spain set new World Cup defensive record</h2>Spain continued their remarkable defensive form by extending their World Cup clean-sheet streak to six consecutive matches, setting a new tournament record. Goalkeeper Unai Simón also established a new individual milestone, stretching his scoreless run to 609 consecutive minutes. Spain moved ahead of Italy's 1990 side and Switzerland's team from the 2006-2010 tournaments, both of whom had previously shared the record for consecutive World Cup matches without conceding a goal.&nbsp;Spain's defensive run began with their goalless Round of 16 encounter against Morocco at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a match they eventually lost on penalties. During the 2026 tournament, Spain opened with an unexpected 0-0 draw against Cape Verde before recording four successive clean-sheet victories to reach the quarterfinals. Simón had already surpassed legendary Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga's previous individual record of 517 consecutive scoreless World Cup minutes during Spain's victory over Austria in the previous knockout round.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Cristiano Ronaldo recreated his iconic walk 😭😭😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/FkbwFCLFLQ">pic.twitter.com/FkbwFCLFLQ</a>&mdash; MC (@CrewsMat10) <a href="https://x.com/CrewsMat10/status/2074242944341565577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Ronaldo denied by Simon</h2>Despite Portugal's defeat, Cristiano Ronaldo came close to adding another World Cup goal to his legendary international record.Unai Simón produced two important first-half saves to deny the Portuguese captain. The second stop was particularly outstanding, as the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper made a full-length diving save, reaching back to gather the ball cleanly with both hands while still airborne.&nbsp;Ronaldo had struck after teammate José Sá's header deflected off Simón's shoulder, but the Spanish goalkeeper reacted brilliantly to preserve his clean sheet. The performance further underlined Spain's defensive dominance as they advanced to the last eight with yet another shutout. For Ronaldo, however, it marked the final chapter of an unforgettable World Cup career that began two decades earlier and cemented his place among football's all-time greats.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">This video is so hard to watch, Ronaldo doesn’t deserve this💔 <a href="https://t.co/I8QUm4avHe">pic.twitter.com/I8QUm4avHe</a>&mdash; Twilight (@the_marcoli_boy) <a href="https://x.com/the_marcoli_boy/status/2074242540728103209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mikel-merino-s-late-goal-sends-spain-into-quarterfinals-as-cristiano-ronaldo-makes-final-appearance-at-fifa-wc-1783372682031">Mikel Merino's late goal sends Spain into quarterfinals as Cristiano Ronaldo makes final appearance at FIFA WC</a>

Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup ended in tears after Spain defeated Portugal 1-0. Mikel Merino's late winner sent Spain into the quarterfinals and extended their record-breaking clean-sheet streak.

Cristiano Ronaldo's remarkable FIFA World Cup journey came to an emotional end as Portugal were knocked out of the 2026 tournament following a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the Round of 16. Substitute Mikel Merino scored deep into second-half stoppage time to send Spain into the quarter-finals and end Ronaldo's final appearance on football's biggest stage. The 41-year-old Portugal captain, who made his World Cup debut in 2006, had already confirmed before the match that the 2026 edition would be his last. Following the final whistle, Ronaldo was overcome with emotion as tears streamed down his face. The Portuguese superstar was comforted by teammates while supporters inside the stadium in Dallas rose to applaud one of football's greatest-ever players. Spain's victory secured their first World Cup quarter-final appearance since lifting their only FIFA World Cup title in South Africa in 2010. They will now face either the United States or Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday. Portugal had been aiming to reach consecutive World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in the nation's history, but Spain's late breakthrough ended those hopes and brought Ronaldo's illustrious World Cup career to a close.

Cristiano Ronaldo's FIFA World Cup career ended as Spain beat Portugal 1-0, with Mikel Merino's late goal sending La Roja into the quarterfinals

WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down in tears as Spain's last-gasp goal ends his FIFA World Cup career

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 1-0 victory over Portugal, bringing Cristiano Ronaldo's legendary World Cup career to an emotional close. The reigning European champions will now face either the United States or Belgium in the quarterfinals in Los Angeles.&nbsp;Played before a crowd of 70,649 at the air-conditioned home of the Dallas Cowboys, the highly anticipated Iberian showdown promised fireworks but remained a tense and tactical affair for most of the evening. With extra time looming, Spain finally found the breakthrough in the first minute of added time. Substitute Ferran Torres delivered a perfectly timed pass to fellow substitute Mikel Merino, who calmly finished to send Spain into the last eight.&nbsp;&nbsp;The defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey after the 41-year-old confirmed before the match that this tournament would be his final appearance on football's biggest stage. Spain continued their outstanding defensive record, remaining unbeaten and yet to concede a goal throughout the tournament. Although regarded as one of the favourites before the competition, Spain are still chasing only their second FIFA World Cup title after lifting the trophy in 2010.&nbsp;Portugal, meanwhile, were hoping to improve on their best-ever World Cup finish of third place in 1966. The match was billed as a symbolic passing of the torch, featuring 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo against Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who continues to emerge as one of football's brightest young stars. Before kick-off, the stadium observed an emotional moment as a black-and-white image of late Portugal forward Diogo Jota appeared on the giant screen in tribute.<h2>Spain dominate early chances</h2>Spain almost opened the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes. Dani Olmo released Mikel Oyarzabal through on goal, but with only goalkeeper Diogo Costa to beat, the forward dragged his effort wide. Portugal captain Ronaldo soon responded, forcing Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon into a save from a tight angle as he searched for his fourth goal of the tournament. Spain gradually increased the pressure.&nbsp;Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena both tested Costa in quick succession, with the Portuguese goalkeeper producing an outstanding fingertip save to deny Baena. Ronaldo, meanwhile, remained largely isolated in attack. The veteran striker received a mixed reaction from supporters throughout the match, drawing both cheers and jeers as he led Portugal's frontline. Portugal nearly broke the deadlock just before halftime when Porro inadvertently diverted Nuno Mendes' powerful strike onto his own crossbar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-arthur-fery-stuns-grigor-dimitrov-to-reach-maiden-quarterfinal-as-jasmine-paolini-ends-alexandra-eala-s-dream-run-1783372031873">Wimbledon: Arthur Fery stuns Grigor Dimitrov to reach maiden quarterfinal as Jasmine Paolini ends Alexandra Eala's dream run</a>

<h2>Portugal lose momentum</h2>Lamine Yamal endured a difficult evening against Nuno Mendes, who largely kept the Barcelona teenager under control. However, Portugal suffered a major setback when Mendes was forced off injured after 56 minutes. With the game lacking attacking quality, Ronaldo showed visible frustration as misplaced passes disrupted Portugal's rhythm.&nbsp;Head coach Roberto Martinez introduced fresh legs with double substitutions in the second half but chose to keep Ronaldo on the pitch until the end. Just when penalties appeared inevitable, Spain delivered the decisive moment. Ferran Torres found Merino with a perfectly weighted pass, and the Arsenal midfielder produced a composed finish deep into stoppage time to seal Spain's victory. The late strike ended Portugal's World Cup campaign and ensured Ronaldo's final appearance on football's biggest stage concluded in heartbreak, while Spain marched confidently into another World Cup quarterfinal.

Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 thanks to Mikel Merino's late winner, ending Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career and securing a quarterfinal clash with the USA or Belgium

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals after substitute Mikel Merino scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to secure a 1-0 victory over Portugal, bringing Cristiano Ronaldo's legendary World Cup career to an emotional close. The reigning European champions will now face either the United States or Belgium in the quarterfinals in Los Angeles. Played before a crowd of 70,649 at the air-conditioned home of the Dallas Cowboys, the highly anticipated Iberian showdown promised fireworks but remained a tense and tactical affair for most of the evening. With extra time looming, Spain finally found the breakthrough in the first minute of added time. Substitute Ferran Torres delivered a perfectly timed pass to fellow substitute Mikel Merino, who calmly finished to send Spain into the last eight. The defeat marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup journey after the 41-year-old confirmed before the match that this tournament would be his final appearance on football's biggest stage. Spain continued their outstanding defensive record, remaining unbeaten and yet to concede a goal throughout the tournament. Although regarded as one of the favourites before the competition, Spain are still chasing only their second FIFA World Cup title after lifting the trophy in 2010. Portugal, meanwhile, were hoping to improve on their best-ever World Cup finish of third place in 1966. The match was billed as a symbolic passing of the torch, featuring 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo against Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who continues to emerge as one of football's brightest young stars. Before kick-off, the stadium observed an emotional moment as a black-and-white image of late Portugal forward Diogo Jota appeared on the giant screen in tribute. Spain dominate early chances Spain almost opened the scoring inside the opening 10 minutes. Dani Olmo released Mikel Oyarzabal through on goal, but with only goalkeeper Diogo Costa to beat, the forward dragged his effort wide. Portugal captain Ronaldo soon responded, forcing Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon into a save from a tight angle as he searched for his fourth goal of the tournament. Spain gradually increased the pressure. Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena both tested Costa in quick succession, with the Portuguese goalkeeper producing an outstanding fingertip save to deny Baena. Ronaldo, meanwhile, remained largely isolated in attack. The veteran striker received a mixed reaction from supporters throughout the match, drawing both cheers and jeers as he led Portugal's frontline. Portugal nearly broke the deadlock just before halftime when Porro inadvertently diverted Nuno Mendes' powerful strike onto his own crossbar. Also Read: Wimbledon: Arthur Fery stuns Grigor Dimitrov to reach maiden quarterfinal as Jasmine Paolini ends Alexandra Eala's dream run

Mikel Merino's stoppage-time goal sent Spain into the World Cup quarterfinals and ended Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup campaign

Mikel Merino's late goal sends Spain into quarterfinals as Cristiano Ronaldo makes final appearance at FIFA WC

Britain's Arthur Fery produced one of the biggest upsets of Wimbledon by defeating fellow wildcard Grigor Dimitrov in a gripping five-set contest on Monday to secure a place in the quarterfinals. On the women's side, Jasmine Paolini brought Alexandra Eala's remarkable tournament to an end, while several top contenders booked their places in the last eight.<h2>Fery delivers career-defining victory</h2>Playing on Centre Court with the backing of a passionate home crowd, Arthur Fery battled back from a set down to defeat Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (10/7). The emotional victory marked the biggest achievement of the 23-year-old Briton's career. "First time on this court, five sets against an absolute legend of the game. I grew up five minutes from here, coming to watch matches on this court. It's unbelievable," said Fery, who attended school in Wimbledon.&nbsp;Fery will now face ninth seed Flavio Cobolli as he looks to become only the fifth British man in the Open Era to reach the Wimbledon semifinals. Ranked world No. 114 entering the tournament, Fery has enjoyed a dream fortnight. After surviving the longest match of this year's championships against Zizou Bergs in the third round, he followed it with another five-set marathon to continue his historic run. His performances are set to propel him into the ATP Top 100 for the first time in his career. For Dimitrov, the defeat extends a painful record in Grand Slam fourth-round matches. Last year, the former world No. 3 was forced to retire injured while leading eventual champion Jannik Sinner by two sets at the same stage.<h2>Cobolli continues impressive Wimbledon campaign</h2>Italy's Flavio Cobolli also advanced to the quarter-finals with an outstanding straight-sets victory over Australian fifth seed Alex de Minaur. Cobolli defeated De Minaur 7-5, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 to reach the Wimbledon last eight for the second consecutive year. The Italian, who finished runner-up to Alexander Zverev at the French Open last month, remains on course for another possible meeting with the German later in the tournament. Meanwhile, second seed Alexander Zverev was scheduled to face Czech 13th seed Jiri Lehecka in his bid to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals for the first time.&nbsp;With Wimbledon's 10 p.m. local curfew approaching, the German needed a swift victory to avoid returning the following day.Taylor Fritz had already secured his place in the last eight after producing a commanding display against Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik. The American sixth seed beat the 10th seed 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-4 to reach his fourth Wimbledon quarterfinal in five years.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/erling-haaland-once-played-against-india-now-he-s-norway-s-fifa-world-cup-hero-after-knocking-out-brazil-1783368097270">Erling Haaland once played against India. Now he's Norway's FIFA World Cup hero after knocking out Brazil</a><h2>Paolini ends Eala's historic run</h2>Italian 13th seed Jasmine Paolini overcame a determined Alexandra Eala 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 on Centre Court to book her first Grand Slam quarter-final since finishing runner-up at Wimbledon in 2024. Paolini, who had endured an inconsistent season coming into the tournament, believes her confidence has steadily grown after surviving a difficult opening round. "After the first set in the first round I was like 'Okay, it can only go better'... point by point, game by game, I was feeling better," said Paolini, who also reached the French Open final two years ago.&nbsp;She will next meet Ukraine's 12th seed Marta Kostyuk, who defeated qualifier Ashlyn Krueger in straight sets. Although her Wimbledon journey ended in the fourth round, 21-year-old Alexandra Eala leaves London having made history as the first player from the Philippines to reach both the third and fourth rounds of a Grand Slam in the Open Era. Belgium's Elise Mertens continued her impressive campaign by defeating Marie Bouzkova 6-4, 6-4 after her earlier upset victory over second seed Elena Rybakina. Mertens will contest her first Wimbledon quarter-final against Czech ninth seed Linda Noskova, who eliminated Madison Keys.

Arthur Fery shocked Grigor Dimitrov to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals, while Jasmine Paolini defeated Alexandra Eala to continue her title bid at SW19

Britain's Arthur Fery produced one of the biggest upsets of Wimbledon by defeating fellow wildcard Grigor Dimitrov in a gripping five-set contest on Monday to secure a place in the quarterfinals. On the women's side, Jasmine Paolini brought Alexandra Eala's remarkable tournament to an end, while several top contenders booked their places in the last eight. Fery delivers career-defining victory Playing on Centre Court with the backing of a passionate home crowd, Arthur Fery battled back from a set down to defeat Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 3-6, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (10/7). The emotional victory marked the biggest achievement of the 23-year-old Briton's career. "First time on this court, five sets against an absolute legend of the game. I grew up five minutes from here, coming to watch matches on this court. It's unbelievable," said Fery, who attended school in Wimbledon. Fery will now face ninth seed Flavio Cobolli as he looks to become only the fifth British man in the Open Era to reach the Wimbledon semifinals. Ranked world No. 114 entering the tournament, Fery has enjoyed a dream fortnight. After surviving the longest match of this year's championships against Zizou Bergs in the third round, he followed it with another five-set marathon to continue his historic run. His performances are set to propel him into the ATP Top 100 for the first time in his career. For Dimitrov, the defeat extends a painful record in Grand Slam fourth-round matches. Last year, the former world No. 3 was forced to retire injured while leading eventual champion Jannik Sinner by two sets at the same stage. Cobolli continues impressive Wimbledon campaign Italy's Flavio Cobolli also advanced to the quarter-finals with an outstanding straight-sets victory over Australian fifth seed Alex de Minaur. Cobolli defeated De Minaur 7-5, 7-6 (7/4), 6-3 to reach the Wimbledon last eight for the second consecutive year. The Italian, who finished runner-up to Alexander Zverev at the French Open last month, remains on course for another possible meeting with the German later in the tournament. Meanwhile, second seed Alexander Zverev was scheduled to face Czech 13th seed Jiri Lehecka in his bid to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals for the first time. With Wimbledon's 10 p.m. local curfew approaching, the German needed a swift victory to avoid returning the following day. Taylor Fritz had already secured his place in the last eight after producing a commanding display against Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik. The American sixth seed beat the 10th seed 7-6 (7/1), 6-4, 6-4 to reach his fourth Wimbledon quarterfinal in five years. Also Read: Erling Haaland once played against India. Now he's Norway's FIFA World Cup hero after knocking out Brazil Paolini ends Eala's historic run Italian 13th seed Jasmine Paolini overcame a determined Alexandra Eala 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 on Centre Court to book her first Grand Slam quarter-final since finishing runner-up at Wimbledon in 2024. Paolini, who had endured an inconsistent season coming into the tournament, believes her confidence has steadily grown after surviving a difficult opening round. "After the first set in the first round I was like 'Okay, it can only go better'... point by point, game by game, I was feeling better," said Paolini, who also reached the French Open final two years ago. She will next meet Ukraine's 12th seed Marta Kostyuk, who defeated qualifier Ashlyn Krueger in straight sets. Although her Wimbledon journey ended in the fourth round, 21-year-old Alexandra Eala leaves London having made history as the first player from the Philippines to reach both the third and fourth rounds of a Grand Slam in the Open Era. Belgium's Elise Mertens continued her impressive campaign by defeating Marie Bouzkova 6-4, 6-4 after her earlier upset victory over second seed Elena Rybakina. Mertens will contest her first Wimbledon quarter-final against Czech ninth seed Linda Noskova, who eliminated Madison Keys.

Britain's Arthur Fery stunned Grigor Dimitrov to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals as Jasmine Paolini ended Alexandra Eala's historic run

Wimbledon: Arthur Fery stuns Grigor Dimitrov to reach maiden quarterfinal as Jasmine Paolini ends Alexandra Eala's dream run

Erling Haaland has spent the past few seasons establishing himself as one of the world's most feared strikers through his performances in the Premier League and Bundesliga. Yet his reputation has reached another level after his dramatic late brace eliminated five-time champions Brazil from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The towering 6ft 5in striker inspired Norway to a historic victory, sending the Scandinavian nation into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time.&nbsp;Norway are playing in only their fourth FIFA World Cup and their first since 1998, having failed to qualify for the previous six tournaments. Haaland, who turns 26 on July 21, was not even born when Norway last appeared on football's biggest stage. Today, he has become the country's biggest football icon. What many fans may not know is that Erling Haaland once played against India.<h2>India's rare meeting with Erling Haaland</h2>A decade ago, Indian football was filled with optimism ahead of hosting the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, the first FIFA tournament ever staged in the country. As part of the preparations, India's U-17 team played several international friendlies against some of the world's top youth sides, including Norway U-17 and Brazil U-17. Those teams featured two future global superstars, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Junior, who would later meet again on football's biggest stage.&nbsp;The official match report from June 29, 2016, remains available on the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website. "After the Indian Colts were reduced to 10 men in the 54th minute when Sanjeev earned a second yellow card for a rash tackle, Norway took the lead in the 57th minute through Erling Braut Haaland and doubled their lead in the 80th minute when Erik Botheim's strike found the net," it said. The report further added, “After a goalless first half, Sanjeev was red-carded in the 54th minute and India were reduced to 10 men. The Indian Colts failed to erase their deficit after conceding goals in the 57th and 80th minutes as the full-time scoreline read 2-0 in Norway's favour.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">By the way, I won that ball. Just saying 😉 <a href="https://t.co/c6A5pZ7vBy">https://t.co/c6A5pZ7vBy</a>&mdash; Suresh Wangjam (@SureshWangjam) <a href="https://x.com/SureshWangjam/status/1537417059105026050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>The viral tackle</h2>Haaland was already considered one of Norway's brightest young prospects during that tournament. Among the Indian players who faced him was midfielder Suresh Wangjam. Years later, in 2022, an image of Suresh successfully tackling Haaland resurfaced on social media and quickly went viral. Reacting to the photo, Suresh joked, "By the way, I won that ball. Just saying."Reflecting on that encounter, Suresh later explained how India specifically planned to stop Haaland. "We knew it was not going to be an easy game. We had a plan to face them. We knew their style of play and that they had one key player [Haaland]. It was a bit easier for us to know who was going to mark the key player so that we could put him under pressure and stop them from playing the ball forward," Suresh later told The Bridge.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stale-solbakken-reveals-carlo-ancelotti-s-classy-gesture-after-norway-s-historic-win-over-brazil-1783367569190">Stale Solbakken reveals Carlo Ancelotti's classy gesture after Norway's historic win over Brazil</a>

<h2>Two very different journeys</h2>Several members of India's 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup squad went on to represent the senior national team and clubs in the Indian Super League. Haaland's journey, however, took him to the very top of world football. From an exciting youth prospect, he has evolved into one of the defining players of his generation, consistently breaking scoring records at club level before now leading Norway to one of the biggest victories in the nation's football history.&nbsp;As Norway prepare for a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final, Indian football continues to search for similar progress. Among FIFA's 211 member associations, India currently sit 138th in the world rankings, highlighting the widening gap between the two footballing nations.

Before becoming Norway's World Cup hero, Erling Haaland played against India's U-17 team in 2016. Here's the forgotten story linking Indian football to the global superstar

Erling Haaland has spent the past few seasons establishing himself as one of the world's most feared strikers through his performances in the Premier League and Bundesliga. Yet his reputation has reached another level after his dramatic late brace eliminated five-time champions Brazil from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. The towering 6ft 5in striker inspired Norway to a historic victory, sending the Scandinavian nation into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time. Norway are playing in only their fourth FIFA World Cup and their first since 1998, having failed to qualify for the previous six tournaments. Haaland, who turns 26 on July 21, was not even born when Norway last appeared on football's biggest stage. Today, he has become the country's biggest football icon. What many fans may not know is that Erling Haaland once played against India. India's rare meeting with Erling Haaland A decade ago, Indian football was filled with optimism ahead of hosting the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, the first FIFA tournament ever staged in the country. As part of the preparations, India's U-17 team played several international friendlies against some of the world's top youth sides, including Norway U-17 and Brazil U-17. Those teams featured two future global superstars, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Junior, who would later meet again on football's biggest stage. The official match report from June 29, 2016, remains available on the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website. "After the Indian Colts were reduced to 10 men in the 54th minute when Sanjeev earned a second yellow card for a rash tackle, Norway took the lead in the 57th minute through Erling Braut Haaland and doubled their lead in the 80th minute when Erik Botheim's strike found the net," it said. The report further added, “After a goalless first half, Sanjeev was red-carded in the 54th minute and India were reduced to 10 men. The Indian Colts failed to erase their deficit after conceding goals in the 57th and 80th minutes as the full-time scoreline read 2-0 in Norway's favour.”

Erling Haaland once scored against India's U-17 team. A decade later, the Norway star has become a FIFA World Cup hero after eliminating Brazil

Erling Haaland once played against India. Now he's Norway's FIFA World Cup hero after knocking out Brazil

Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has revealed that a thoughtful gesture from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti helped end any tension following their dramatic World Cup last-16 clash. Norway secured a memorable 2-1 victory over Brazil on Sunday to book a place in the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in the nation's history. However, before the match, many Brazilian fans reacted strongly to a viral video showing Solbakken saying, "Carlo Ancelotti, we're coming for you!" after Norway's last-32 victory over Ivory Coast.&nbsp;Solbakken explained that the clip had been taken out of context and praised Ancelotti for responding with remarkable sportsmanship after the final whistle. "I can say that he (Ancelotti) showed his enormous greatness after the match. He sent a representative in with a Brazilian shirt with my name on the back and a greeting. So it was strong stuff," Solbakken told reporters on Monday. Norway's historic victory was powered by striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice to eliminate the five-time world champions and send his side into the quarterfinals.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-thomas-tuchel-outsmarted-mexico-five-tactical-decisions-that-sent-england-into-the-fifa-world-cup-quarterfinal-1783364380055">How Thomas Tuchel outsmarted Mexico: Five tactical decisions that sent England into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal</a>

Norway will now face England in Miami on Saturday as they continue their remarkable World Cup journey. While Solbakken allowed his coaching staff and players to enjoy the landmark win, he admitted he struggled to switch off after the emotional evening. "I let the support staff celebrate for themselves. I was too tired, so I went to bed and watched the game again, and then I scrolled a little here and there and answered a few texts, and slept very little. But it was a good morning," Solbakken said.&nbsp;Although the coach did not officially organize celebrations for the squad, he expressed complete trust in his players to celebrate responsibly. "They decide these things themselves, it's freedom with responsibility. It always is, these boys manage that just fine," he added. Norway's historic triumph over Brazil has become one of the biggest stories of the tournament, with Solbakken's tactical leadership and Haaland's clinical finishing guiding the Scandinavian side into an eagerly anticipated quarter-final showdown against England.

Norway coach Stale Solbakken revealed Carlo Ancelotti's touching post-match gesture after Erling Haaland's brace secured a historic World Cup victory over Brazil and a place in the quarterfinals against England

Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has revealed that a thoughtful gesture from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti helped end any tension following their dramatic World Cup last-16 clash. Norway secured a memorable 2-1 victory over Brazil on Sunday to book a place in the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in the nation's history. However, before the match, many Brazilian fans reacted strongly to a viral video showing Solbakken saying, "Carlo Ancelotti, we're coming for you!" after Norway's last-32 victory over Ivory Coast. Solbakken explained that the clip had been taken out of context and praised Ancelotti for responding with remarkable sportsmanship after the final whistle. "I can say that he (Ancelotti) showed his enormous greatness after the match. He sent a representative in with a Brazilian shirt with my name on the back and a greeting. So it was strong stuff," Solbakken told reporters on Monday. Norway's historic victory was powered by striker Erling Haaland, who scored twice to eliminate the five-time world champions and send his side into the quarterfinals. Also Read: How Thomas Tuchel outsmarted Mexico: Five tactical decisions that sent England into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal

Norway coach Stale Solbakken praised Brazil's coach Carlo Ancelotti's classy gesture after Haaland's double inspired a historic World Cup win over Brazil

Stale Solbakken reveals Carlo Ancelotti's classy gesture after Norway's historic win over Brazil

Much had been said about the challenge England would face against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, and the contest lived up to expectations. The atmosphere created by the home crowd, the high altitude of Mexico City and Mexico’s relentless intensity combined to produce one of England’s toughest tests of the tournament. To navigate it, Thomas Tuchel’s side approached the match in clearly defined stages, almost as though they were playing five separate games. England’s progress to the World Cup quarter-finals once again highlighted why Tuchel has earned a reputation as one of football’s most tactically astute coaches and a specialist in knockout football.<h2>Game 1: Surviving Mexico’s early pressure</h2>England’s measured opening approach was no accident. Assistant coach Anthony Barry revealed the plan during the half-time interval. "We prepared the players that up until the first water break it would be a difficult game," he said. "We would have to suffer. Mexico always start fast. We knew 0-0 would be a good result at the break."&nbsp;England focused on limiting Mexico’s early momentum rather than trying to dominate possession. Defensively, they were far more disciplined than in previous matches. Before kick-off, Tuchel had explained the need for smarter pressing rather than relentless pressure. "We are fully committed to our press," he said. “But it's not economical. We need to be smart and pick the right moments.” England largely followed that instruction. When Mexico attempted to build from the back, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and an additional pressing player worked together to block passing lanes, making life more difficult for Javier Aguirre’s side. Mexico still managed to progress through intelligent movement, with midfielders and wingers dropping into space to receive possession.&nbsp;A key tactical detail was Elliot Anderson’s positioning. Rather than joining every press, he stayed closer to England’s centre-backs, denying Mexico an easy passing option through midfield. Once Mexico advanced into attacking areas, England settled into a compact mid-block, prioritising defensive shape over immediate ball recovery. The statistics reflected that patience. England had averaged just 12.1 seconds to regain possession in their first four World Cup matches. Against Mexico in the opening half, that figure rose dramatically to 37 seconds.<h2>Game 2: Clinical counter-attacking</h2>England’s disciplined first-half display paid off in decisive fashion. Mexico’s fluid positional rotations saw 17-year-old Gilberto Mora drift to the left side of the attack, despite naturally operating on the opposite flank. When Jordan Pickford collected the ball, Mora instinctively moved back towards his usual position, leaving valuable space exposed. Pickford immediately found Declan Rice, who drove forward before releasing Bukayo Saka. Saka delivered an accurate cross that allowed Jude Bellingham to arrive late and head England into the lead.&nbsp;Mexico’s response from the restart proved disastrous. England pressed aggressively immediately after kick-off. Unlike earlier in the game, Anderson stepped higher to support the press, filling the space behind England’s attackers. His pressure forced a turnover that led directly to England’s second goal, again finished by Bellingham.<h2>Game 3: A shift towards control</h2>England opened the second half looking to impose themselves more aggressively. Anthony Gordon had occasionally joined the high press before the interval, but after the break he and Saka alternated as the third pressing attacker. The approach created opportunities but also increased the risk, turning the match into a more open contest. One sequence ultimately proved costly.Following an attacking move, Bellingham continued pressing goalkeeper Raul Rangel deep inside Mexico’s half.&nbsp;It appeared to be one of the moments Tuchel had warned against, leaving England temporarily exposed with Bellingham positioned ahead of the ball. Mexico exploited the situation. Left winger Julian Quinones drifted inside, drawing Jarell Quansah out of position while Saka remained committed further forward. As Mexico attacked the exposed space, Quansah was forced into a late sliding challenge on Jesus Gallardo, resulting in a red card.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gianni-infantino-insists-fifa-independent-after-donald-trump-call-to-lift-balogun-ban-red-card-1783361404097">Gianni Infantino insists FIFA ‘Independent’ after Donald Trump's call to lift Balogun ban</a>

<h2>Game 4: Managing Mexico’s wide threat</h2>Reduced to 10 men, England effectively entered another phase of the match. John Stones replaced Bukayo Saka, Ezri Konsa shifted to right-back, and England reorganised into either a 4-4-1 or 4-3-1-1 shape. Tuchel relied on one of his familiar tactical principles: invite pressure before launching direct passes towards runners. Anthony Gordon became England’s primary outlet.His pace allowed England to relieve sustained pressure and he won the penalty that further strengthened England’s position.Despite that, Mexico remained dangerous down the left.&nbsp;Julian Quinones repeatedly drifted inside, dragging England’s defenders with him and creating space for left-back Jesus Gallardo to deliver dangerous crosses. Mexico frequently created overloads on the left, mirroring many of England’s own attacking patterns during the tournament. Those combinations freed Quinones to shoot, switch play or deliver inswinging crosses, one of which eventually resulted in Mexico winning a penalty.<h2>Game 5: Closing the door</h2>Tuchel again used the second-half hydration break to reshape his side. Dan Burn and Djed Spence replaced Elliot Anderson and Nico O’Reilly as England switched to a defensive 5-3-1 formation. Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Anthony Gordon formed an energetic midfield trio capable of covering large areas despite being a player short. England’s defensive resilience proved decisive. John Stones and Djed Spence produced crucial last-ditch tackles during the closing stages, while the towering 6ft 7in Dan Burn dominated aerially as Mexico increasingly relied on crosses.&nbsp;As England dropped deeper, space opened in front of the defence. However, Javier Aguirre replaced the influential Julian Quinones with the taller Guillermo Martinez. The substitution ultimately suited England. Prepared for aerial battles, England comfortably dealt with Mexico’s increasingly predictable crossing strategy. The hosts lost the attacking variety that had troubled England earlier in the contest.&nbsp;Almost every attack was directed wide before hopeful deliveries into the penalty area, allowing England to defend wave after wave of crosses with confidence. Tournament football demands adaptability, and England demonstrated exactly that. Reduced to 10 men in one of world football’s most intimidating stadiums, Tuchel’s tactical planning and the depth of his squad ensured England successfully negotiated another major World Cup obstacle and secured their place in the quarterfinals.

England reached the World Cup quarterfinals after a tactical masterclass from Thomas Tuchel against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, overcoming altitude, pressure and a red card with disciplined defending and Jude Bellingham’s brilliance

Much had been said about the challenge England would face against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium, and the contest lived up to expectations. The atmosphere created by the home crowd, the high altitude of Mexico City and Mexico’s relentless intensity combined to produce one of England’s toughest tests of the tournament. To navigate it, Thomas Tuchel’s side approached the match in clearly defined stages, almost as though they were playing five separate games. England’s progress to the World Cup quarter-finals once again highlighted why Tuchel has earned a reputation as one of football’s most tactically astute coaches and a specialist in knockout football. Game 1: Surviving Mexico’s early pressure England’s measured opening approach was no accident. Assistant coach Anthony Barry revealed the plan during the half-time interval. "We prepared the players that up until the first water break it would be a difficult game," he said. "We would have to suffer. Mexico always start fast. We knew 0-0 would be a good result at the break." England focused on limiting Mexico’s early momentum rather than trying to dominate possession. Defensively, they were far more disciplined than in previous matches. Before kick-off, Tuchel had explained the need for smarter pressing rather than relentless pressure. "We are fully committed to our press," he said. “But it's not economical. We need to be smart and pick the right moments.” England largely followed that instruction. When Mexico attempted to build from the back, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and an additional pressing player worked together to block passing lanes, making life more difficult for Javier Aguirre’s side. Mexico still managed to progress through intelligent movement, with midfielders and wingers dropping into space to receive possession. A key tactical detail was Elliot Anderson’s positioning. Rather than joining every press, he stayed closer to England’s centre-backs, denying Mexico an easy passing option through midfield. Once Mexico advanced into attacking areas, England settled into a compact mid-block, prioritising defensive shape over immediate ball recovery. The statistics reflected that patience. England had averaged just 12.1 seconds to regain possession in their first four World Cup matches. Against Mexico in the opening half, that figure rose dramatically to 37 seconds. Game 2: Clinical counter-attacking England’s disciplined first-half display paid off in decisive fashion. Mexico’s fluid positional rotations saw 17-year-old Gilberto Mora drift to the left side of the attack, despite naturally operating on the opposite flank. When Jordan Pickford collected the ball, Mora instinctively moved back towards his usual position, leaving valuable space exposed. Pickford immediately found Declan Rice, who drove forward before releasing Bukayo Saka. Saka delivered an accurate cross that allowed Jude Bellingham to arrive late and head England into the lead. Mexico’s response from the restart proved disastrous. England pressed aggressively immediately after kick-off. Unlike earlier in the game, Anderson stepped higher to support the press, filling the space behind England’s attackers. His pressure forced a turnover that led directly to England’s second goal, again finished by Bellingham. Game 3: A shift towards control England opened the second half looking to impose themselves more aggressively. Anthony Gordon had occasionally joined the high press before the interval, but after the break he and Saka alternated as the third pressing attacker. The approach created opportunities but also increased the risk, turning the match into a more open contest. One sequence ultimately proved costly. Following an attacking move, Bellingham continued pressing goalkeeper Raul Rangel deep inside Mexico’s half. It appeared to be one of the moments Tuchel had warned against, leaving England temporarily exposed with Bellingham positioned ahead of the ball. Mexico exploited the situation. Left winger Julian Quinones drifted inside, drawing Jarell Quansah out of position while Saka remained committed further forward. As Mexico attacked the exposed space, Quansah was forced into a late sliding challenge on Jesus Gallardo, resulting in a red card. Also Read: Gianni Infantino insists FIFA ‘Independent’ after Donald Trump's call to lift Balogun ban

England overcame Mexico’s intensity, altitude and a red card through Thomas Tuchel’s tactical flexibility to secure a place in the World Cup quarterfinals

How Thomas Tuchel outsmarted Mexico: Five tactical decisions that sent England into the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino insisted on Monday (Jul 6) that the governing body’s disciplinary process was independent amid widespread criticism of the bombshell decision to lift US World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s suspension following Donald Trump’s intervention. After US President Trump admitted contacting Infantino about reviewing Balogun’s red-card foul, Infantino confirmed that FIFA’s judicial bodies took the decision and that the case would be decided in due course.&nbsp;Balogun’s red-card fiasco has become the headline worldwide, with Trump and Infantino providing statements hours before their Round of 16 match against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup 2026.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-blasts-us-president-donald-trump-fifa-chief-gianni-infantino-folarin-balogun-world-cup-ban-suspension-1783338252488">Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban</a> &nbsp;"I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies," Infantino said in a statement. &nbsp;US President Trump also confirmed in the press briefing that he called Infantino, with whom he has built a close relationship, "because I didn't think it was a foul". &nbsp;"All I did was ask for a review; I didn't say you have to do this," Trump added.

USA vs Belgium at World Cup 2026

Meanwhile, Balogun received a straight red card following a video review for stepping on a Bosnia-Herzegovina defender's foot in the round-of-32 match that the US won 2-0. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban. However, FIFA said the ban will now be suspended for a year, in a decision that sparked widespread condemnation from the football world. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said he thought it was an April Fool's joke, while Norway's coach Stale Solbakken said it was "a big mistake" by FIFA. &nbsp;Infantino added that he often discussed events at the World Cup with Trump. &nbsp;"I regularly discuss matters related to the FIFA World Cup with the President of the United States, and on this matter, I did receive a call from President Donald Trump," he said. "Just as I receive calls from heads of state, government officials, football stakeholders and business executives from around the world on many different issues." &nbsp;Infantino said he always read the decisions handed down and "sometimes I am surprised by them. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree". &nbsp;“What I always do, however, is respect those decisions and the autonomy of the bodies that make them," he said.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Gianni Infantino defends FIFA’s independence following backlash over a bombshell decision to lift US star Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after a call from Donald Trump.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino insisted on Monday (Jul 6) that the governing body’s disciplinary process was independent amid widespread criticism of the bombshell decision to lift US World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s suspension following Donald Trump’s intervention. After US President Trump admitted contacting Infantino about reviewing Balogun’s red-card foul, Infantino confirmed that FIFA’s judicial bodies took the decision and that the case would be decided in due course. Balogun’s red-card fiasco has become the headline worldwide, with Trump and Infantino providing statements hours before their Round of 16 match against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Also read| Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban "I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies," Infantino said in a statement. US President Trump also confirmed in the press briefing that he called Infantino, with whom he has built a close relationship, "because I didn't think it was a foul". "All I did was ask for a review; I didn't say you have to do this," Trump added.

Gianni Infantino defends FIFA’s independence following backlash over a bombshell decision to lift US star Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after a call from Donald Trump.

Gianni Infantino insists FIFA ‘Independent’ after Donald Trump's call to lift Balogun ban

Cricket changes almost every six months now, and the surge in franchise T20 cricket is the main reason behind it. Although everyone benefits from these fast-paced, thrilling and entertaining T20 matches, players who are at the helm of this glorified form of cricket eventually suffer. And so do the longer forms of the game – the ODIs and Tests.&nbsp;Even though Test cricket is said to be able to prolong its presence, 50-over cricket is at risk of facing the ultimate wrath. Cricket’s apex body, the ICC, is planning radical changes to cricket calendars and to introduce a new World Club T20 tournament, in an effort to preserve players and all three forms of the game.&nbsp;Although the idea will be discussed first among the 12 full members at ICC’s next meeting in July 2026, let alone executing it, given the scheduled FTPs at least until 2031, here are five crucial questions we will address on how it could impact cricket.&nbsp;Why is the ICC considering such major changes to the international cricket calendar, and what challenges is it trying to address?&nbsp;The ICC finds itself in a deadlock over preserving all three formats of the game, including the T20Is, in the face of the threat posed by the franchise leagues running throughout the year. The ICC wants to divide windows for each format and introduce a new tournament called World Club T20 – similar to the now-defunct Champions League T20. This step would ideally help players’ availability for their national teams and franchises worldwide.&nbsp;Could a World Club T20 tournament make franchise cricket more influential than international cricket?&nbsp;It ideally could, or maybe not. Even though the ICC would also be concerned about franchise cricket out-sizing the international formats, forming a World Club T20 tournament, featuring top teams from all franchise leagues across the globe, could create a mega showdown and a revenue-minting project.&nbsp;Should the 50-over ODI format be shortened to remain relevant in the era of T20 cricket?&nbsp;In another step, the ICC plans to shorten ODIs to 40 overs per side; to make it relevant in this age and time of franchise-league cricket, it also contemplates playing 50-over cricket only 18 months before a World Cup. Although it would mean that bilateral cricket would suffer its ultimate death, the ICC could keep the excitement for One-Dayers running among the fans, who seemed to have sidelined the format in countries outside the big three (India, Australia and England).&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-zimbabwe-t20-sanju-samson-dropped-shivam-dube-england-odis-nitish-kumar-reddy-1783348659390">No Sanju Samson in India’s T20I squad for Zimbabwe series; Dube replaces Reddy for ENG ODIs</a>&nbsp;How would these proposed reforms affect the BCCI, the IPL and India's position in world cricket?&nbsp;BCCI and Indian Cricket work as an economic engine for world cricket, and a calendar shake-up of this magnitude would depend heavily on the richest cricketing board. While the introduction of fixed international windows would secure a two-and-a-half-month summer block for the IPL, ensuring players’ availability without scheduling constraints, it could potentially create a rift with the ICC over its desire to take more centralised control over multilateral or continental tournaments.&nbsp;What impact could an expanded World Test Championship have on the future of Test cricket and emerging cricket nations?&nbsp;The idea of expanding the WTC by including teams like Ireland, Afghanistan and even Zimbabwe would boost the format’s lifeline, providing the minnows with the opportunity to host and travel to top countries and fight for the coveted prize. Meanwhile, for this idea to become fruitful, the ICC must allow one-off Tests to be part of the WTC cycles, a massive shift from the traditional scheduling. Moreover, with top teams playing lower-ranked sides, it would provide financial incentives and structural purpose to those boards that otherwise lose money hosting non-contextual, standalone Test matches.

How will the ICC's radical calendar overhaul change the sport? Explore the impact of shorter 40-over ODIs, an expanded WTC, and a new World Club T20.

Cricket changes almost every six months now, and the surge in franchise T20 cricket is the main reason behind it. Although everyone benefits from these fast-paced, thrilling and entertaining T20 matches, players who are at the helm of this glorified form of cricket eventually suffer. And so do the longer forms of the game – the ODIs and Tests. Even though Test cricket is said to be able to prolong its presence, 50-over cricket is at risk of facing the ultimate wrath. Cricket’s apex body, the ICC, is planning radical changes to cricket calendars and to introduce a new World Club T20 tournament, in an effort to preserve players and all three forms of the game. Although the idea will be discussed first among the 12 full members at ICC’s next meeting in July 2026, let alone executing it, given the scheduled FTPs at least until 2031, here are five crucial questions we will address on how it could impact cricket. Why is the ICC considering such major changes to the international cricket calendar, and what challenges is it trying to address? The ICC finds itself in a deadlock over preserving all three formats of the game, including the T20Is, in the face of the threat posed by the franchise leagues running throughout the year. The ICC wants to divide windows for each format and introduce a new tournament called World Club T20 – similar to the now-defunct Champions League T20. This step would ideally help players’ availability for their national teams and franchises worldwide. Could a World Club T20 tournament make franchise cricket more influential than international cricket? It ideally could, or maybe not. Even though the ICC would also be concerned about franchise cricket out-sizing the international formats, forming a World Club T20 tournament, featuring top teams from all franchise leagues across the globe, could create a mega showdown and a revenue-minting project. Should the 50-over ODI format be shortened to remain relevant in the era of T20 cricket? In another step, the ICC plans to shorten ODIs to 40 overs per side; to make it relevant in this age and time of franchise-league cricket, it also contemplates playing 50-over cricket only 18 months before a World Cup. Although it would mean that bilateral cricket would suffer its ultimate death, the ICC could keep the excitement for One-Dayers running among the fans, who seemed to have sidelined the format in countries outside the big three (India, Australia and England). Also read| No Sanju Samson in India’s T20I squad for Zimbabwe series; Dube replaces Reddy for ENG ODIs How would these proposed reforms affect the BCCI, the IPL and India's position in world cricket? BCCI and Indian Cricket work as an economic engine for world cricket, and a calendar shake-up of this magnitude would depend heavily on the richest cricketing board. While the introduction of fixed international windows would secure a two-and-a-half-month summer block for the IPL, ensuring players’ availability without scheduling constraints, it could potentially create a rift with the ICC over its desire to take more centralised control over multilateral or continental tournaments. What impact could an expanded World Test Championship have on the future of Test cricket and emerging cricket nations? The idea of expanding the WTC by including teams like Ireland, Afghanistan and even Zimbabwe would boost the format’s lifeline, providing the minnows with the opportunity to host and travel to top countries and fight for the coveted prize. Meanwhile, for this idea to become fruitful, the ICC must allow one-off Tests to be part of the WTC cycles, a massive shift from the traditional scheduling. Moreover, with top teams playing lower-ranked sides, it would provide financial incentives and structural purpose to those boards that otherwise lose money hosting non-contextual, standalone Test matches.

How will the ICC's radical calendar overhaul change the sport? Explore the impact of shorter 40-over ODIs, an expanded WTC, and a new World Club T20.

Shorter ODIs, World Club T20 planned in radical ICC overhaul: How it changes cricket

India has left out two-time T20 World Cup-winning keeper, Sanju Samson, from the T20I squad for the three-match series against Zimbabwe, starting later in July. Samson, however, is not the only marquee player to miss out as frontline quicks Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna, alongside Washington Sundar and Ravi Bishnoi, have also been omitted. While the selectors haven’t mentioned whether Samson and others are rested or dropped, they have included several newcomers, including Prabhsimran Singh and seamers Yash Thakur and Ashok Sharma. Left-arm spin all-rounder Harsh Dubey has also been included.&nbsp;On the other hand, lanky all-rounder Shivam Dube has replaced injured Nitish Kumar Reddy for the three-match ODI series against England, starting July 14 at Edgbaston.<h3>India’s T20I Squad for Zimbabwe Series –</h3>Shreyas Iyer (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (vc), Ishan Kishan (wk), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Varun Chakaravarthy, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav and Prabhsimran Singh (wk)<h3>Sooryavanshi included</h3>Fresh from his India debut at 15 years and 99 days, teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has also retained his place in the T20I side for the away series in Zimbabwe. Against England in the recently concluded 2nd T20I, Sooryavanshi became the youngest Indian men’s debutant, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record of 16 years and 298 days.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-s-debut-at-15-increase-chances-of-success-cricket-coach-shares-what-he-requires-to-repeat-ipl-form-1783325987341">Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut at 15 increase chances of success? Cricket coach shares what he requires to repeat IPL form</a> &nbsp;Top-ranked T20I batters, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, have been included alongside Tilak Varma and Dube. Shreyas Iyer will continue to lead the team, which also sees the comebacks of Rinku Singh and seamer Mayank Yadav. While Prabhsimran earned his maiden senior team call-up, express pacer Mayank is back again for the first time since injuring himself following his India debut in 2024.<h3>Sanju’s absence raises questions</h3>Even though he would have been rested, given his extended rope since the start of this year, Sanju Samson’s absence does raise questions over his T20I future, especially after Sooryavanshi’s debut. India notably benched Samson to facilitate the 15-year-old's highly anticipated debut, after which footage of an animated boundary-line interaction between Samson and head coach Gautam Gambhir went viral across social media platforms. &nbsp;However, Sanju’s form remains a worry for India, who are yet to win a game on this away UK tour. Sanju registered single-digit scores in the three T20Is (two against Ireland and one against England). His partner Abhishek, on the other hand, has been among the runs, hitting two fifties and 43 in four T20Is so far.&nbsp; &nbsp;Check out India’s updated ODI squad for England series-&nbsp;&nbsp;Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar and Shivam Dube

Sanju Samson has been left out of India's T20I squad for the Zimbabwe tour, while Shivam Dube replaces the injured Nitish Kumar Reddy for the England ODIs

India has left out two-time T20 World Cup-winning keeper, Sanju Samson, from the T20I squad for the three-match series against Zimbabwe, starting later in July. Samson, however, is not the only marquee player to miss out as frontline quicks Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna, alongside Washington Sundar and Ravi Bishnoi, have also been omitted. While the selectors haven’t mentioned whether Samson and others are rested or dropped, they have included several newcomers, including Prabhsimran Singh and seamers Yash Thakur and Ashok Sharma. Left-arm spin all-rounder Harsh Dubey has also been included. On the other hand, lanky all-rounder Shivam Dube has replaced injured Nitish Kumar Reddy for the three-match ODI series against England, starting July 14 at Edgbaston. India’s T20I Squad for Zimbabwe Series – Shreyas Iyer (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma (vc), Ishan Kishan (wk), Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Rinku Singh, Harsh Dubey, Varun Chakaravarthy, Prince Yadav, Yash Thakur, Ashok Sharma, Mayank Yadav and Prabhsimran Singh (wk) Sooryavanshi included Fresh from his India debut at 15 years and 99 days, teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has also retained his place in the T20I side for the away series in Zimbabwe. Against England in the recently concluded 2nd T20I, Sooryavanshi became the youngest Indian men’s debutant, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record of 16 years and 298 days. Also read| Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut at 15 increase chances of success? Cricket coach shares what he requires to repeat IPL form Top-ranked T20I batters, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, have been included alongside Tilak Varma and Dube. Shreyas Iyer will continue to lead the team, which also sees the comebacks of Rinku Singh and seamer Mayank Yadav. While Prabhsimran earned his maiden senior team call-up, express pacer Mayank is back again for the first time since injuring himself following his India debut in 2024. Sanju’s absence raises questions Even though he would have been rested, given his extended rope since the start of this year, Sanju Samson’s absence does raise questions over his T20I future, especially after Sooryavanshi’s debut. India notably benched Samson to facilitate the 15-year-old's highly anticipated debut, after which footage of an animated boundary-line interaction between Samson and head coach Gautam Gambhir went viral across social media platforms. However, Sanju’s form remains a worry for India, who are yet to win a game on this away UK tour. Sanju registered single-digit scores in the three T20Is (two against Ireland and one against England). His partner Abhishek, on the other hand, has been among the runs, hitting two fifties and 43 in four T20Is so far. Check out India’s updated ODI squad for England series- Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar and Shivam Dube

Sanju Samson has been left out of India's T20I squad for the Zimbabwe tour, while Shivam Dube replaces the injured Nitish Kumar Reddy for the England ODIs

No Sanju Samson in India’s T20I squad for Zimbabwe series; Dube replaces Reddy for ENG ODIs

Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali completed his move from Newcastle United to Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record fee of £100 million ($133.4 million), making him the most expensive player from Italy ever. The 26-year-old joined the North London club on a three-year contract, per the latest reports, which also state that the initial fee was £92.5 million with an additional £7.5 million in add-ons. His inclusion marks a superb transfer window for Spurs, who also acquired Premier League and Champions League-winning left-back Andy Robertson from Liverpool.&nbsp;"I'm very happy to be here," Tonali said in a statement on Tottenham's website. "I spoke to the head coach (Roberto De Zerbi) for close to two hours about the club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham." Spurs' new boss De Zerbi called Tonali a "special player and a great signing for our club".

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonali is Tottenham. <a href="https://t.co/2Yn0PfUkFO">pic.twitter.com/2Yn0PfUkFO</a>&mdash; Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) <a href="https://x.com/SpursOfficial/status/2074085964650090651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jordan-henderson-wrist-injury-england-mexico-fifa-world-cup-celebration-azteca-stadium-1783341477262">World Cup Blow: Jordan Henderson hospitalised after injuring wrist in England celebrations</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tonali arrives at Spurs after three seasons at Newcastle, whom he joined for £55 million from AC Milan in July 2023. He made 110 appearances for Newcastle and was part of the team that won the club’s first major trophy in 70 years when the team lifted the League Cup two seasons ago.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, his time at St. James's Park was also marred by a 10-month worldwide ban for gambling on football. The Italian Football Federation punished Tonali in October 2023 for breaching rules, which prohibit players from betting on events organised by itself, UEFA, and FIFA during his time in Italy. &nbsp;In May 2024, Tonali was given a suspended two-month ban after admitting to breaches of the English Football Association's betting rules.<h3>More signings for Spurs</h3>After narrowly escaping league relegation the past season, Spurs splurged on top stars worldwide, strengthening their squad for the upcoming season. While Tonali and Robertson remain their marquee signings, Tottenham also signed Mateus Fernandes from the relegated West Ham for a reported £85 million, a club record at the time and Netherlands centre-half Jan Paul van Hecke for a reported £52 million. &nbsp;Argentine international defender Marcos Senesi has also arrived on a free transfer to bolster Tottenham's defensive options.

Sandro Tonali has completed a historic £100m transfer from Newcastle to Tottenham, making the midfielder the most expensive Italian player in history.

Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali completed his move from Newcastle United to Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record fee of £100 million ($133.4 million), making him the most expensive player from Italy ever. The 26-year-old joined the North London club on a three-year contract, per the latest reports, which also state that the initial fee was £92.5 million with an additional £7.5 million in add-ons. His inclusion marks a superb transfer window for Spurs, who also acquired Premier League and Champions League-winning left-back Andy Robertson from Liverpool. "I'm very happy to be here," Tonali said in a statement on Tottenham's website. "I spoke to the head coach (Roberto De Zerbi) for close to two hours about the club, the fans, the stadium and our football. It was like magic because I knew immediately that I had to sign for Tottenham." Spurs' new boss De Zerbi called Tonali a "special player and a great signing for our club".

Sandro Tonali has completed a historic £100m transfer from Newcastle to Tottenham, making the midfielder the most expensive Italian player in history.

Sandro Tonali becomes most expensive Italian player with £100m Spurs move

In an untimely blow to England, their veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson has suffered a freak wrist injury during his team’s celebrations following a win over favourites Mexico on Sunday at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Henderson awkwardly fell on his hand while jumping over the advertisement boards shortly after England stunned the tournament’s co-hosts to enter the quarterfinals. England head coach Thomas Tuchel said Henderson’s injury looks ‘very bad’ and that he has been hospitalised, becoming the second marquee player after Reece James to be sidelined with an injury.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨The moment Jordan Henderson broke his arm during Englands Celebrations <a href="https://t.co/64wSNZVipe">pic.twitter.com/64wSNZVipe</a>&mdash; Kalshi Footy (@KalshiFooty) <a href="https://x.com/KalshiFooty/status/2074077664508318060?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

England secured a famous 3-2 win over Mexico at their fortress at the Azteca Stadium, with goals from Jude Bellingham, who hit a brace, and Harry Kane, who has increased his tally to six goals in this edition alone. Although they won the match despite playing most of the second half with just 10 players following Jarell Quansah’s red card, their celebrations turned into worries after Henderson found himself in dire pain after falling on his left wrist.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-blasts-us-president-donald-trump-fifa-chief-gianni-infantino-folarin-balogun-world-cup-ban-suspension-1783338252488">Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban</a> &nbsp;After celebrating this famous win with a section of fans behind a goal post, Henderson injured himself, with Tuchel fearing the worst for the midfielder and his team, who will now be three players short for their quarterfinal match against Norway.

USA vs Belgium at World Cup

"It is quite a serious injury,” Tuchel said of Henderson. "It just doesn't fit to the evening that Jordan is now not with us. I don't know the procedure which is going on. I just did the [media duties], and the doc told me he's in the hospital." &nbsp;Henderson will stay in Mexico for a night with an England staff member while the rest of the squad will fly to the team’s training base in Kansas City, Missouri. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Henderson became the first-ever English player to feature at four World Cups after coming off the bench against Panama in his team’s last group-stage game. Even though he did not play a part in England’s clinical win in Mexico City, Henderson received a yellow card in the dying minutes of the game. &nbsp;England will next face Norway on July 12 in the quarterfinal.

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has been hospitalised with a severe wrist injury sustained during celebrations after the World Cup win over Mexico.

In an untimely blow to England, their veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson has suffered a freak wrist injury during his team’s celebrations following a win over favourites Mexico on Sunday at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Henderson awkwardly fell on his hand while jumping over the advertisement boards shortly after England stunned the tournament’s co-hosts to enter the quarterfinals. England head coach Thomas Tuchel said Henderson’s injury looks ‘very bad’ and that he has been hospitalised, becoming the second marquee player after Reece James to be sidelined with an injury. WATCH VIDEO -

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has been hospitalised with a severe wrist injury sustained during celebrations after the World Cup win over Mexico.

World Cup Blow: Jordan Henderson hospitalised after injuring wrist in England celebrations

Jürgen Klopp didn’t mince his words in calling out ‘clueless’ Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino over FIFA’s abrupt decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's one-match ban. All of this happened after the US president called the FIFA chief to review the US striker's red card foul. Upon receiving a direct red for stepping on the Bosnian defender’s foot during the US’s 2-0 win in the Round of 32 fixture, Balogun was set to miss the crucial World Cup pre-quarterfinal against Belgium in Seattle on Monday (Jul 6). However, Trump’s intervention forced FIFA to lift his suspension, allowing him to feature for the US in the Last 16.&nbsp;The latest reports suggest that Trump personally called up the FIFA president, Infantino, asking him to review Balogun's punishment. Klopp, who is set to take over as Germany’s new head coach following Julian Nagelsmann’s recent resignation, hit out at the decision, saying, ‘This is our game, not theirs…’ &nbsp;"It's a red card, even if it's a shame because Balogun can't play, but it's there in the rules," Klopp said. "This is our game, not theirs... If Trump and Infantino really worked this all out between themselves, that's crazy. It calls everything into question... &nbsp;"These two individuals, neither of whom has a clue about football, shouldn't have anything to do with it,” he added.

Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-slams-fifa-us-striker-folarin-balogun-world-cup-ban-suspended-red-card-1783335582805">‘Rule Broken!’: UEFA furious as FIFA clears US striker Balogun to play against Belgium</a> &nbsp;Although per FIFA's regulations, a direct red card automatically triggers a one-match ban, which cannot be appealed, a rule in the FIFA statutes also allows the governing body to "fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure", essentially amounting to a veto over refereeing decisions. &nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Trump, who was the first recipient of the newly created FIFA Peace Prize in the lead-up to this 48-team tournament, praised FIFA's decision on social media. &nbsp;"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Jürgen Klopp blasts "clueless" Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino after the US President's intervention forced FIFA to lift Folarin Balogun's ban.

Jürgen Klopp didn’t mince his words in calling out ‘clueless’ Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino over FIFA’s abrupt decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's one-match ban. All of this happened after the US president called the FIFA chief to review the US striker's red card foul. Upon receiving a direct red for stepping on the Bosnian defender’s foot during the US’s 2-0 win in the Round of 32 fixture, Balogun was set to miss the crucial World Cup pre-quarterfinal against Belgium in Seattle on Monday (Jul 6). However, Trump’s intervention forced FIFA to lift his suspension, allowing him to feature for the US in the Last 16. The latest reports suggest that Trump personally called up the FIFA president, Infantino, asking him to review Balogun's punishment. Klopp, who is set to take over as Germany’s new head coach following Julian Nagelsmann’s recent resignation, hit out at the decision, saying, ‘This is our game, not theirs…’ "It's a red card, even if it's a shame because Balogun can't play, but it's there in the rules," Klopp said. "This is our game, not theirs... If Trump and Infantino really worked this all out between themselves, that's crazy. It calls everything into question... "These two individuals, neither of whom has a clue about football, shouldn't have anything to do with it,” he added.

Jürgen Klopp blasts "clueless" Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino after the US President's intervention forced FIFA to lift Folarin Balogun's ban.

Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban

In a startling move ahead of the US’s Last 16 World Cup match against Belgium, UEFA has slammed FIFA for ‘crossing a red line’ and lifting US striker Folarin Balogun's one-game ban. This move, however, brought fairness, honesty and transparency, the foundation of trust among fans, players and the game, under scrutiny.&nbsp;FIFA’s ruling came after US President Donald Trump intervened in the matter, seeking help from FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the foul. Upon checking, FIFA, strangely, without any justifiable footballing reason, permitted Balogun to play against Belgium despite receiving a straight red card in his team's win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/donald-trump-thanks-fifa-after-folarin-balogun-ban-suspended-cleared-for-belgium-showdown-1783277319658">Donald Trump thanks FIFA after Folarin Balogun ban suspended, cleared for Belgium showdown</a> &nbsp;"Yesterday’s decision to suspend for a probationary period of a year the implementation of the one-match automatic suspension following the red card issued to the player Folarin Balogun crossed a red line," read UEFA's strongly worded statement. "Football, like any other sport, relies on rules, which are the basis for fair, honest and transparent competition. Sometimes rules are open to interpretation. In this case, not." &nbsp;European football’s governing body, UEFA, also warned of the repercussions for the sport as a whole.

"Football is the most loved sport in the world because it is a beautiful game and is trusted because it is played everywhere with the same laws," it said. "A tournament is never a pure standalone, and, if the tournament in question is the World Cup, it has the power to drive positive or negative consequences on the game as a whole. &nbsp;“We express our disbelief at such an unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable decision.”<h3>What is Balogun’s red-card issue?</h3>Balogun, who smashed three goals at the ongoing World Cup, was set to miss the crucial pre-quarterfinal match against Belgium after receiving a straight red card following a video review for stepping on a Bosnian defender during the Round-of-32 match, which the US won 2-0.&nbsp; &nbsp;Under the FIFA rules, a straight red card means an automatic one-match ban, which, in this case, was the US’s next match against the European giants in Seattle. &nbsp;The twist in the tale came when Trump called up Infantino, asking him to review Balogun's punishment, two sources familiar with the matter said per an AFP report. In the meantime, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also publicly called for the card to be rescinded.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, after reviewing the decision, FIFA's disciplinary committee suspended the ban, adding that it will remain suspended for a year, shocking the football community worldwide. &nbsp;"Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. &nbsp;Read More| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didn-t-know-that-july-5-is-now-april-fool-s-day-belgium-coach-slams-fifa-over-shock-ruling-on-folarin-balogun-1783293015760">'Didn't know that July 5 is now April Fool's Day': Belgium coach slams FIFA over shock ruling on Folarin Balogun</a>&nbsp;Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia was the latest to slam this move, saying, "I didn't know that at the FIFA World Cup, the 5th of July is now the 1st of April, and that it's April Fool's Day.”

UEFA slams FIFA for "crossing a red line" after Donald Trump intervenes to suspend US star Folarin Balogun's World Cup red card ban ahead of the Belgium clash.

In a startling move ahead of the US’s Last 16 World Cup match against Belgium, UEFA has slammed FIFA for ‘crossing a red line’ and lifting US striker Folarin Balogun's one-game ban. This move, however, brought fairness, honesty and transparency, the foundation of trust among fans, players and the game, under scrutiny. FIFA’s ruling came after US President Donald Trump intervened in the matter, seeking help from FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review the foul. Upon checking, FIFA, strangely, without any justifiable footballing reason, permitted Balogun to play against Belgium despite receiving a straight red card in his team's win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Also read| Donald Trump thanks FIFA after Folarin Balogun ban suspended, cleared for Belgium showdown "Yesterday’s decision to suspend for a probationary period of a year the implementation of the one-match automatic suspension following the red card issued to the player Folarin Balogun crossed a red line," read UEFA's strongly worded statement. "Football, like any other sport, relies on rules, which are the basis for fair, honest and transparent competition. Sometimes rules are open to interpretation. In this case, not." European football’s governing body, UEFA, also warned of the repercussions for the sport as a whole.

UEFA slams FIFA for "crossing a red line" after Donald Trump intervenes to suspend US star Folarin Balogun's World Cup red card ban ahead of the Belgium clash.

‘Rule Broken!’: UEFA furious as FIFA clears US striker Balogun to play against Belgium

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, finally made his international debut in second T20I between India and England at Manchester on Saturday (Jul 4). The 15-year-old was handed the chance after his sensational IPL 2026 where he won the orange cap for most runs with 776 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate of 237 and an average of 48.50. Sooryavanshi's rise has been phenomenal which started from being picked up in the auction before IPL 2025 by Rajasthan Royals. He has also performed very well in age group cricket for India U-19 but the question is - would he able te get the same success in international cricket or this early debut will bring more pressure for him?<h2>Will Sooryavanshi thrive in international cricket?</h2>In his debut innings, Sooryavanshi scored only 14 runs off 10 balls but still managed to hit two sixes - one to Jofra Archer and another to Josh Tongue - both express bowlers able to trouble batters with pace. Sooryavanshi was nonchalant and confident in his brief innings, but would he be able to continue like this?Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-why-mexico-s-raul-jimenez-wears-a-headband-during-matches-1783321483883">FIFA 2026 | Why Mexico's Raul Jimenez wears a headband during matches?</a>WION spoke to cricket coach Rampukar Kushwaha who trains budding cricketers of same age and asked him if the early debut is an advantage for Sooryavanshi or it is going to put pressure on him.The coach's reply was simple: "Give him all the freedom. At the age of 15, all he needs is freedom to play. If he's told too many things, then he might start overanalysing things and that could hamper his performance."Coach Ram also spoke about how different it is to play for the country and for the franchise: "Playing for India and for a franchise are two completely different things. Sooryavanshi was given a lot of freedom to play his natural game in IPL and that's what made him successful. To replicate the same level of success at the international level, he will need more freedom because playing at the international level comes with its own set of pressure."<h2>How has Sooryavanshi performed so far?</h2>Sooryavanshi is known for his attacking style and it is visible in his strike rate across the formats. In List A (50-over) cricket, he has played 13 matches and scored 564 runs at a strike rate of 177. In all T20s, he has hit 1,491 runs at a strike rate of 219. He also has four hundreds, six fifties, and 136 sixes to his name in T20s. In First Class (red-ball), Sooryavanshi has played 12 innings in eight matches, scoring 207 runs at a strike rate of 90 - way higher than the average in the format.In IPL, Sooryavnshi has played 23 matches and scored 1,028 runs at a strike rate of 229 - all for Rajasthan Royals. He also has two hundreds and six fifties to his name in IPL along with 96 sixes as well.Weather of not Sooryavanshi is able to make the most of his career is remains to be seen, but he sure has the talent, skill, and confidance to succeed.

In his debut innings, Sooryavanshi scored only 14 runs off 10 balls but still managed to hit two sixes - one to Jofra Archer and another to Josh Tongue - both express bowlers able to trouble batters with pace. Sooryavanshi was nonchalant and confident in his brief innings, but would he be able to continue like this?

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, finally made his international debut in second T20I between India and England at Manchester on Saturday (Jul 4). The 15-year-old was handed the chance after his sensational IPL 2026 where he won the orange cap for most runs with 776 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate of 237 and an average of 48.50. Sooryavanshi's rise has been phenomenal which started from being picked up in the auction before IPL 2025 by Rajasthan Royals. He has also performed very well in age group cricket for India U-19 but the question is - would he able te get the same success in international cricket or this early debut will bring more pressure for him? Will Sooryavanshi thrive in international cricket? In his debut innings, Sooryavanshi scored only 14 runs off 10 balls but still managed to hit two sixes - one to Jofra Archer and another to Josh Tongue - both express bowlers able to trouble batters with pace. Sooryavanshi was nonchalant and confident in his brief innings, but would he be able to continue like this? Also Read - FIFA 2026 | Why Mexico's Raul Jimenez wears a headband during matches? WION spoke to cricket coach Rampukar Kushwaha who trains budding cricketers of same age and asked him if the early debut is an advantage for Sooryavanshi or it is going to put pressure on him. The coach's reply was simple: "Give him all the freedom. At the age of 15, all he needs is freedom to play. If he's told too many things, then he might start overanalysing things and that could hamper his performance." Coach Ram also spoke about how different it is to play for the country and for the franchise: "Playing for India and for a franchise are two completely different things. Sooryavanshi was given a lot of freedom to play his natural game in IPL and that's what made him successful. To replicate the same level of success at the international level, he will need more freedom because playing at the international level comes with its own set of pressure." How has Sooryavanshi performed so far? Sooryavanshi is known for his attacking style and it is visible in his strike rate across the formats. In List A (50-over) cricket, he has played 13 matches and scored 564 runs at a strike rate of 177. In all T20s, he has hit 1,491 runs at a strike rate of 219. He also has four hundreds, six fifties, and 136 sixes to his name in T20s. In First Class (red-ball), Sooryavanshi has played 12 innings in eight matches, scoring 207 runs at a strike rate of 90 - way higher than the average in the format. In IPL, Sooryavnshi has played 23 matches and scored 1,028 runs at a strike rate of 229 - all for Rajasthan Royals. He also has two hundreds and six fifties to his name in IPL along with 96 sixes as well. Weather of not Sooryavanshi is able to make the most of his career is remains to be seen, but he sure has the talent, skill, and confidance to succeed.

In his debut innings, Sooryavanshi scored only 14 runs off 10 balls but still managed to hit two sixes - one to Jofra Archer and another to Josh Tongue - both express bowlers able to trouble batters with pace. Sooryavanshi was nonchalant and confident in his brief innings, but would he be able to continue like this?

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut at 15 increase chances of success? Cricket coach shares what he requires to repeat IPL form

Raul Jimenez was the reason Mexico registred their first knockout victory since 1986 world cup when El Tri beat Ecudaor in Round of 32. He was also the reason the Mexico, co-host of the FIFA World Cup 2026, started their campaign with a 2-0 win against South Africa. On Sunday (Jul 5), Jimenez tried his best, converting a penalty in 69th minute to cut Mexico's deficit to one goal against England but it wasn't enough. Jimenez, however, did all he could and that did so while wearing a custom headband.<h2>Why Jimenez wears a custom headband?</h2>Jimenez is luck to be vene playing, let alone scoring goals in a World Cup. In 2020, he suffered a horrific skull fracture after colloiding head-on with Arsenal defender David Luiz while playing for Wolverhampton in the English Premier League. He was out of action for the next six months and scored his first goal after after injury in November 2021 in the Wolves' 1-0 win over Southampton in the Premier League.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Live on Zee5

Jimenez currently is second on the list of most goals for Mexico in international. His tally stands at 48 goals including three he scored in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026. Javier Hernandez leads the list for Mexico with 52 international goals.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-why-senegal-contingent-members-are-stuck-in-the-us-five-days-after-elimination-1783311332842">FIFA 2026 | Why Senegal contingent members are stuck in the US five days after elimination?</a><h2>What happened in Mexico vs England Round of 16 match?</h2>Mexico had the possession of the ball 66 percent of time, made 465 passes with 92 percent accurac and even struck 23 shots but England came out triumphant. Jude Bellingham first scored a brace in space of 98 seconds to send the Three Lions 2-0 before Mexico tried and reduced the deficit to 1 goal before half-time, thanks to Julian Quinones' effort in 42nd minute.In the second half, England suffered a setback as Jarell Quansah was sent off the pitch following a red card but the team responded with skipper Harry Kane converting a penalty six minutes later in 60th minute. Jimenez once again reduced the deficit nine minutes later by converting a penalty of his own in the 69th minute, but Mexico crashed out with 2-3 loss.

Jimenez had suffered a skull fracture in 2020 and wears a doctor-approved headband. He will continue to do so throughout his career as a precaution after the horrific injury.

Raul Jimenez was the reason Mexico registred their first knockout victory since 1986 world cup when El Tri beat Ecudaor in Round of 32. He was also the reason the Mexico, co-host of the FIFA World Cup 2026, started their campaign with a 2-0 win against South Africa. On Sunday (Jul 5), Jimenez tried his best, converting a penalty in 69th minute to cut Mexico's deficit to one goal against England but it wasn't enough. Jimenez, however, did all he could and that did so while wearing a custom headband. Why Jimenez wears a custom headband? Jimenez is luck to be vene playing, let alone scoring goals in a World Cup. In 2020, he suffered a horrific skull fracture after colloiding head-on with Arsenal defender David Luiz while playing for Wolverhampton in the English Premier League. He was out of action for the next six months and scored his first goal after after injury in November 2021 in the Wolves' 1-0 win over Southampton in the Premier League.

Jimenez had suffered a skull fracture in 2020 and wears a doctor-approved headband. He will continue to do so throughout his career as a precaution after the horrific injury.

FIFA 2026 | Why Mexico's Raul Jimenez wears a headband during matches?

Senegal's FIFA World Cup 2026 ended in heartbreak on Wednesday (Jul 1), as they were beaten 3-2 by Belgium in extra time in the round of 32, despite leading 2-0 with just four minutes left on the clock. Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans struck late to force extra time, before Tielemans converted a 124th-minute penalty to send Belgium through. Five days on, the pain hasn't ended for Senegal's travelling party. While the players and coaching staff finally flew out of Seattle on Sunday (Jul 5), federation officials and support staff remain stuck in the US with no clarity on when they'll get home.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-10-man-england-overcome-mexico-3-2-to-book-quarter-final-berth-1783307375104">FIFA 2026 | 10-man England overcome Mexico 3-2 to book quarter-final berth</a><h2>Why Senegal World Cup contingent members are stuck in the US?</h2>The plan was for a government-chartered flight to take the whole squad home on Friday (Jul 3), but sources within the camp told ESPN that the delegation was informed at the last minute, just as they were heading to the airport, that the plane hadn't turned up. No official explanation has been given, but insiders believe President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's cabinet reshuffle, underway since June, has left a gap in the administration that handled the arrangements.

There's also a theory that nobody back home expected Senegal to be knocked out this early. After all, they'd hammered Iraq 5-0 in their final group game to progress, so travel plans for a swift exit were simply never made. It was left to the Senegalese Football Federation to scramble and find commercial tickets, which is how the players eventually made it out. Things got messy on the ground too, with some non-playing staff reportedly shifted to a three-star hotel after their original rooms ran out beyond the booked dates. One member of the delegation admitted to feeling "abandoned" by the country's authorities.<h2>What next for members stuck in the USA?</h2>The Senegal Federation says a special charter arranged by the Ministry of Youth and Sports is set to land in Dakar on Tuesday (Jul 7) at 9:15 a.m., though flight trackers are yet to show any such flight listed. The stranded staff remain hopeful that they'll finally get a route home by Tuesday at the earliest, bringing an end to a chaotic exit from a World Cup campaign that was already troubled from the start.A statement by Senegal Football Federation, however, thanked the authorities "who spared no effort in facilitating the procedures to ensure the delegation's return as quickly as possible."

While the players and coaching staff finally flew out of Seattle on Sunday (Jul 5), federation officials and support staff remain stuck in the US with no clarity on when they'll get home.

Senegal's FIFA World Cup 2026 ended in heartbreak on Wednesday (Jul 1), as they were beaten 3-2 by Belgium in extra time in the round of 32, despite leading 2-0 with just four minutes left on the clock. Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans struck late to force extra time, before Tielemans converted a 124th-minute penalty to send Belgium through. Five days on, the pain hasn't ended for Senegal's travelling party. While the players and coaching staff finally flew out of Seattle on Sunday (Jul 5), federation officials and support staff remain stuck in the US with no clarity on when they'll get home. Also Read - FIFA 2026 | 10-man England overcome Mexico 3-2 to book quarter-final berth Why Senegal World Cup contingent members are stuck in the US? The plan was for a government-chartered flight to take the whole squad home on Friday (Jul 3), but sources within the camp told ESPN that the delegation was informed at the last minute, just as they were heading to the airport, that the plane hadn't turned up. No official explanation has been given, but insiders believe President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's cabinet reshuffle, underway since June, has left a gap in the administration that handled the arrangements.

While the players and coaching staff finally flew out of Seattle on Sunday (Jul 5), federation officials and support staff remain stuck in the US with no clarity on when they'll get home.

FIFA 2026 | Why Senegal contingent members are stuck in the US five days after elimination?

England, despite being down a man for most of the second half, managed to beat co-hosts Mexico in Round of 16 match of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/fifa-2026">FIFA World Cup 2026</a> on Sunday (Jul 5) at Mexico Citt Stadium. England won the match 3-2 with Jude Bellingham scoring a brace and skipper Harry Kane converting a penalty six minutes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-2026-jarell-quansah-gets-sent-off-and-england-respond-with-a-goal-vs-mexico-1783306158135">Jarell Quansah was given a red card</a>. For Mexico, Julian Quinones scored right before the half time while Raul Jimenez managed to convert a penalty in 69th minute but it was not enough in the end. Mexico also became second co-host after Canada to bow out of the tournament with only the USA still to play their R16 match.

<h2>How England overcame Mexico challenge?</h2>Mexico had the home advantage and they made sure of using it, visible in their 66 percent ball possesssion during which they made 465 passes with 92 percent accuracy. The El Tri also made 23 shots and five of the on target but only two could find the net. England, on the other hand, played with precision during their 34 percent possession. They made 262 passes with only 83 percent accuracy but took six shots but five of them were on target.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-tried-it-s-over-now-neymar-announces-retirement-as-brazil-knocked-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1783302856368">'It's over now': Neymar announces retirement as Brazil crash out of FIFA WC 2026</a>The match turned around with Jude Bellingham scoring a brace in space of three minutes - 36th and 38th minute to put Mexico under pressure and it worked out in the end.<h2>What did Kane say after the win?</h2>England were looking down after Jarell Quansah got red carded in 54th minute but skipper Kane stepped up and converted a penalty six minutes later. "It was a crazy game. We had to fight and we had to find something," Kane said after the win."I've just been singing, I can't really talk. The occasion, the team, everything against us, we found a way. The ref gave a lot against us. In the end it didn't matter so I'm happy."<h2>Where to watch and live stream England's FIFA World Cup 2026 matches?</h2>England's knockout matches in FIFA World Cup 2026 will be aired LIVE across WION's sister company Zee5 app and website. (link: https://www.zee5.com/)

England beat Mexico 3-2 in the 2026 World Cup R16 despite Quansah's red card. Bellingham scored a brace and Kane hit a penalty. Quiñones and Jiménez scored for Mexico, who join Canada in exiting.

England, despite being down a man for most of the second half, managed to beat co-hosts Mexico in Round of 16 match of FIFA World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Jul 5) at Mexico Citt Stadium. England won the match 3-2 with Jude Bellingham scoring a brace and skipper Harry Kane converting a penalty six minutes after Jarell Quansah was given a red card. For Mexico, Julian Quinones scored right before the half time while Raul Jimenez managed to convert a penalty in 69th minute but it was not enough in the end. Mexico also became second co-host after Canada to bow out of the tournament with only the USA still to play their R16 match.

England beat Mexico 3-2 in the 2026 World Cup R16 despite Quansah's red card. Bellingham scored a brace and Kane hit a penalty. Quiñones and Jiménez scored for Mexico, who join Canada in exiting.

FIFA 2026 | 10-man England overcome Mexico 3-2 to book quarter-final berth

Jarell Quansah was sent off for England in their World Cup round of 16 clash against Mexico on Sunday (Jul 5) night, turning what was already a high-stakes knockout tie into a night of high drama. The match carried huge significance, with the winner opening up a route towards a potential quarterfinal date with Erling Haaland's rampaging Norway side. The build-up itself had been far from smooth, with Mexican fans blasting horns outside England's team hotel to disrupt their sleep, and manager Thomas Tuchel publicly urging his players to keep calm heads amid the tension surrounding the fixture.

<h2>Why was Quansah sent off vs Mexico?</h2>Quansah was shown a straight red card following a VAR review into his challenge on Mexico's Jesus Gallardo, with the incident taking place early in the 54th minute. At that point, England were leading 2-1 in the contest. Tuchel reacted immediately to the setback, withdrawing Bukayo Saka for defender John Stones to shore things up after going down to 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, England did not wilt. Just six minutes after Quansah's dismissal, Harry Kane converted a penalty to stretch the lead to 3-1, awarded after Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel brought down Anthony Gordon inside the box. With this sending off, Quansah became only the fourth England player ever dismissed at a World Cup, and the first since Wayne Rooney's infamous red card back in 2006. Before Rooney, Ray Wilkins was sent off in 1986 and David Beckham in 1998.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-tried-it-s-over-now-neymar-announces-retirement-as-brazil-knocked-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1783302856368">'It's over now': Neymar announces retirement as Brazil crash out of FIFA WC 2026</a><h2>What happened after Quansah was sent off?</h2>England had a one-goal lead when Quansah was sent off but being one-man down put the pressure on them. The Three Lions, however, responded in style with skipper Harry Kane stepping up and converting a penalty in the 60th minute to take the team 3-1 up. Mexico trried hard with Raul Jimenez converting a penalty in the 69th minute but England held up the defence and eventually won the match 3-2 for a place in quarter-final.<h2>Where to watch and live stream England's FIFA World Cup 2026 matches?</h2>England's knockout matches in FIFA World Cup 2026 will be aired LIVE across WION's sister company Zee5 app and website. (link: https://www.zee5.com/)&nbsp;

The incident taking place early in the 54th minute. At that point, England were leading 2-1 in the contest. Just six minutes after Quansah's dismissal, Harry Kane converted a penalty to stretch the lead to 3-1.

Jarell Quansah was sent off for England in their World Cup round of 16 clash against Mexico on Sunday (Jul 5) night, turning what was already a high-stakes knockout tie into a night of high drama. The match carried huge significance, with the winner opening up a route towards a potential quarterfinal date with Erling Haaland's rampaging Norway side. The build-up itself had been far from smooth, with Mexican fans blasting horns outside England's team hotel to disrupt their sleep, and manager Thomas Tuchel publicly urging his players to keep calm heads amid the tension surrounding the fixture.

The incident taking place early in the 54th minute. At that point, England were leading 2-1 in the contest. Just six minutes after Quansah's dismissal, Harry Kane converted a penalty to stretch the lead to 3-1.

FIFA 2026 | Jarell Quansah gets sent off and England respond with a goal vs Mexico

Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated careers in the nation's football history. The 34-year-old forward confirmed his decision after Brazil's elimination, ending a 16-year journey with the national team that saw him become the country's all-time leading men's goalscorer.&nbsp;Speaking to geTV after the match, Neymar said: “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I closed it here.” The statement carried added emotion, as MetLife Stadium was also where Neymar made his senior debut for Brazil against the United States in 2010. Sixteen years later, the same venue became the setting for his final appearance in the famous yellow jersey.<h2>Brazil's World Cup campaign ends in heartbreak</h2>Brazil entered the knockout stage hoping to challenge for a sixth World Cup title, but Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by knocking out the five-time champions. Neymar scored Brazil's only goal of the match from the penalty spot, but it was not enough to prevent an early exit from the competition. The defeat marked the end of Neymar's long pursuit of the one trophy that had always eluded him. Injuries had disrupted much of the latter part of his international career, making the 2026 World Cup his final opportunity to win football's biggest prize.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didn-t-know-that-july-5-is-now-april-fool-s-day-belgium-coach-slams-fifa-over-shock-ruling-on-folarin-balogun-1783293015760">'Didn't know that July 5 is now April Fool's Day': Belgium coach slams FIFA over shock ruling on Folarin Balogun</a>

Spain vs Portugal

<h2>A historic Brazil career for Neymar</h2>Neymar retires as Brazil's all-time leading men's scorer with 80 goals in 129 appearances, surpassing Pele's official tally for the national team. Since making his debut as a teenager, he became the focal point of Brazil's attack and represented his country at four FIFA World Cups, carrying the expectations of millions of supporters across different generations.&nbsp;Despite his brilliance, World Cup glory never arrived. In 2014, his tournament ended because of injury before Brazil's devastating semifinal defeat to Germany. In 2018, Brazil were eliminated by Belgium in the quarterfinals. In 2022, Neymar scored in extra time against Croatia before Brazil lost on penalties. His final World Cup campaign ended in 2026 with a Round of 16 defeat to Norway.&nbsp;While the World Cup remained out of reach, Neymar enjoyed major success with Brazil, winning Olympic gold at Rio 2016 and lifting the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2013. Although debates over his place among Brazil's greatest footballers will continue, Neymar leaves the international stage as one of the most talented players ever to represent the Selecao.&nbsp;His farewell message reflected both pride and heartbreak. “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I closed it here.” With those words, Neymar officially ended his international career, closing a remarkable chapter in Brazilian football.

Neymar announced his retirement from Brazil after the Selecao's 2-1 World Cup Round of 16 defeat to Norway. The Brazilian legend ended his international career as the nation's all-time leading scorer with 80 goals.

Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international football following Brazil's heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated careers in the nation's football history. The 34-year-old forward confirmed his decision after Brazil's elimination, ending a 16-year journey with the national team that saw him become the country's all-time leading men's goalscorer. Speaking to geTV after the match, Neymar said: “I tried, I tried. Now it’s over. I started here, I closed it here.” The statement carried added emotion, as MetLife Stadium was also where Neymar made his senior debut for Brazil against the United States in 2010. Sixteen years later, the same venue became the setting for his final appearance in the famous yellow jersey. Brazil's World Cup campaign ends in heartbreak Brazil entered the knockout stage hoping to challenge for a sixth World Cup title, but Norway produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by knocking out the five-time champions. Neymar scored Brazil's only goal of the match from the penalty spot, but it was not enough to prevent an early exit from the competition. The defeat marked the end of Neymar's long pursuit of the one trophy that had always eluded him. Injuries had disrupted much of the latter part of his international career, making the 2026 World Cup his final opportunity to win football's biggest prize. Also Read: 'Didn't know that July 5 is now April Fool's Day': Belgium coach slams FIFA over shock ruling on Folarin Balogun

Neymar announces retirement from international football after Brazil's shocking 2-1 World Cup Round of 16 defeat to Norway at MetLife Stadium

'I tried. It's over now': Neymar announces retirement as Brazil knocked out of FIFA World Cup 2026

Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia has strongly criticised FIFA’s controversial decision to allow United States striker Folarin Balogun to be eligible for the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash between Belgium and the USA, according to news agency Reuters. The decision comes after FIFA suspended Balogun’s automatic one-match ban following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a move that has sparked backlash from the Belgian camp.&nbsp;Garcia questioned the timing and fairness of the ruling, saying it undermined the spirit of the competition. “I didn't know that at the FIFA World Cup the fifth of July is now the first of April and it's April Fool's Day.” The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) also reacted strongly, saying it was ‘astonished’ by FIFA’s decision and adding that it was ‘investigating all potential options’. Garcia backed his federation’s position, stressing that the issue goes beyond national interest. "We are not defending the national team or the federation, we are defending football with its ethics and integrity."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-made-erling-haaland-s-twin-strike-sends-norway-to-fifa-wc-quarterfinal-for-first-time-beat-brazil-2-1-1783288125970">History made! Erling Haaland's twin strike sends Norway to FIFA WC quarterfinal for first time, beat Brazil 2-1</a>

Despite his frustration, Garcia insisted Belgium would remain focused on preparation for the knockout tie, even as media scrutiny around the ruling intensified. “Please don't waste your time talking about that. We want to focus on sporting matters.” Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois also addressed the situation, acknowledging the controversy but reaffirming the squad’s focus."For us as players, nothing changes. We focus on the game, to win on the pitch, whoever plays."&nbsp;FIFA announced on Sunday that Folarin Balogun will be available for the United States after the governing body suspended the enforcement of his automatic one-match ban. In an official statement, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee explained its decision, saying, "By operation of Article 27 FDC, the implementation of the automatic match suspension for USA player Folarin Balogun is suspended for a probationary period of one (1) year."

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia criticises FIFA’s decision to allow Folarin Balogun to play vs USA in World Cup 2026, calling it unfair and controversial

Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia has strongly criticised FIFA’s controversial decision to allow United States striker Folarin Balogun to be eligible for the World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash between Belgium and the USA, according to news agency Reuters. The decision comes after FIFA suspended Balogun’s automatic one-match ban following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, a move that has sparked backlash from the Belgian camp. Garcia questioned the timing and fairness of the ruling, saying it undermined the spirit of the competition. “I didn't know that at the FIFA World Cup the fifth of July is now the first of April and it's April Fool's Day.” The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) also reacted strongly, saying it was ‘astonished’ by FIFA’s decision and adding that it was ‘investigating all potential options’. Garcia backed his federation’s position, stressing that the issue goes beyond national interest. "We are not defending the national team or the federation, we are defending football with its ethics and integrity." Also Read: History made! Erling Haaland's twin strike sends Norway to FIFA WC quarterfinal for first time, beat Brazil 2-1

Belgium’s Rudi Garcia slams FIFA over Folarin Balogun eligibility ruling, calling it unfair, while Courtois urges focus on World Cup clash against USA

'Didn't know that July 5 is now April Fool's Day': Belgium coach slams FIFA over shock ruling on Folarin Balogun

Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages as Norway stunned Brazil 2-1 at MetLife Stadium to reach their first-ever FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, ending the five-time champions’ campaign in dramatic fashion. Norway were inspired by a sensational performance from goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who saved a first-half penalty from Bruno Guimaraes and produced a series of crucial stops to frustrate Brazil throughout the match. The breakthrough arrived late after Haaland capitalised on Norway’s growing pressure, before sealing victory with a second goal in the 90th minute to silence Brazil’s late comeback hopes.&nbsp;Neymar gave Brazil a lifeline deep into stoppage time, converting a penalty after a second spot-kick was awarded, but it proved only a consolation in a night of heartbreak for the South Americans. Haaland’s brace took him level with Lionel Messi on seven goals for the tournament, while Norway now advance to face either Mexico or England in Miami on July 11. Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti in a bid to end a 24-year World Cup drought, suffered their earliest exit since 1990 and were eliminated by European opposition for the sixth consecutive World Cup.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-trump-influence-fifa-shock-decision-clears-folarin-balogun-for-usa-vs-belgium-world-cup-clash-1783286984827">Did Trump influence FIFA? Shock decision clears Folarin Balogun for USA vs Belgium World Cup clash</a>

The match had started with early tension, as Patrick Berg saw an early goal disallowed for offside before Brazil won a penalty following a VAR review after Kristoffer Ajer’s challenge on Matheus Cunha. However, Bruno Guimaraes saw his effort saved brilliantly by Nyland, who guessed correctly and dived low to his left. The Norwegian goalkeeper continued to stand firm, denying efforts from Gabriel Martinelli, Vinicius Junior, and others as Brazil piled on pressure.&nbsp;At the other end, Haaland gradually grew into the game and eventually made the difference, first powering a header past Alisson Becker after a cross from Andreas Schjelderup. As Brazil pushed forward in search of an equaliser, Nyland produced another stunning fingertip save to keep Norway ahead. Haaland then struck again from the edge of the box in the final minutes, securing a famous win.&nbsp;Late drama followed when Neymar converted from the spot after a tense ending that included a confrontation involving Nyland and Casemiro. After the final whistle, Haaland described the occasion as historic. “This is just an insane day.” "It is one of the most insane days in Norwegian history."

History made! Erling Haaland's twin strike sends Norway to FIFA WC quarterfinal for first time, beat Brazil 2-1

Erling Haaland scored twice in the closing stages as Norway stunned Brazil 2-1 at MetLife Stadium to reach their first-ever FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, ending the five-time champions’ campaign in dramatic fashion. Norway were inspired by a sensational performance from goalkeeper Orjan Nyland, who saved a first-half penalty from Bruno Guimaraes and produced a series of crucial stops to frustrate Brazil throughout the match. The breakthrough arrived late after Haaland capitalised on Norway’s growing pressure, before sealing victory with a second goal in the 90th minute to silence Brazil’s late comeback hopes. Neymar gave Brazil a lifeline deep into stoppage time, converting a penalty after a second spot-kick was awarded, but it proved only a consolation in a night of heartbreak for the South Americans. Haaland’s brace took him level with Lionel Messi on seven goals for the tournament, while Norway now advance to face either Mexico or England in Miami on July 11. Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti in a bid to end a 24-year World Cup drought, suffered their earliest exit since 1990 and were eliminated by European opposition for the sixth consecutive World Cup. Also Read: Did Trump influence FIFA? Shock decision clears Folarin Balogun for USA vs Belgium World Cup clash

Two goals from Erling Haaland helped Norway beat five-time World Cup champions Brazil 2-1; will now face either England or Mexico in quarterfinal

President Donald Trump’s involvement in FIFA’s unexpected decision to clear striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium is under scrutiny, according to a report from CNN. A source familiar with the matter told CNN that Trump held discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino this week following Balogun’s red card and requested a review of the incident. Shortly after, FIFA announced a surprising decision to suspend the striker’s automatic one-match ban for one year, making him eligible for the Round of 16 clash in Seattle.&nbsp;The ruling came as a shock to many, as the US team and supporters had believed there was no mechanism to overturn the suspension. FIFA later confirmed the decision, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allows the governing body to suspend the implementation of disciplinary sanctions under a probationary period. The controversy stems from Balogun’s red card during the USA’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. The forward was sent off in the 64th minute after a VAR review ruled that he had stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle during a challenge deemed ‘serious foul play’.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2026-jannik-sinner-cruises-into-fifth-straight-quarterfinal-with-dominant-win-1783285963265">Wimbledon 2026: Jannik Sinner cruises into fifth straight quarterfinal with dominant win</a>

Despite the incident, Balogun has been a key figure in Mauricio Pochettino’s attacking setup, leading the team’s scoring charts with three goals in four matches, including a first-half strike before his dismissal. Under normal circumstances, the red card would have ruled him out of the next match, but FIFA’s decision now places the suspension on hold.&nbsp;The governing body clarified that the ban is suspended “for a probationary period of one year.” However, the disciplinary record remains active, meaning any similar offense during this period would immediately reactivate the suspension along with additional penalties. US Soccer responded cautiously, welcoming the decision while shifting focus to the upcoming fixture. “We accept the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and are pleased that Folarin Balogun is eligible to compete tomorrow,”US Soccer added, “Our full attention is focused on the Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle, and we look forward to the continued support of our amazing fans.”

FIFA’s decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s ban before USA vs Belgium is under scrutiny after reports of Donald Trump’s involvement in talks with Gianni Infantino

President Donald Trump’s involvement in FIFA’s unexpected decision to clear striker Folarin Balogun to play against Belgium is under scrutiny, according to a report from CNN. A source familiar with the matter told CNN that Trump held discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino this week following Balogun’s red card and requested a review of the incident. Shortly after, FIFA announced a surprising decision to suspend the striker’s automatic one-match ban for one year, making him eligible for the Round of 16 clash in Seattle. The ruling came as a shock to many, as the US team and supporters had believed there was no mechanism to overturn the suspension. FIFA later confirmed the decision, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allows the governing body to suspend the implementation of disciplinary sanctions under a probationary period. The controversy stems from Balogun’s red card during the USA’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. The forward was sent off in the 64th minute after a VAR review ruled that he had stepped on defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle during a challenge deemed ‘serious foul play’. Also Read: Wimbledon 2026: Jannik Sinner cruises into fifth straight quarterfinal with dominant win

FIFA’s shock decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s ban ahead of USA against Belgium sparks scrutiny over Donald Trump’s reported involvement

Did Trump influence FIFA? Shock decision clears Folarin Balogun for USA vs Belgium World Cup clash

Defending Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner booked his place in the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive year after defeating Japanese qualifier Shintaro Mochizuki in straight sets on Sunday. The world no. 1 overcame a determined challenge from the 151st-ranked Mochizuki to secure a 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), 6-3 victory and advance to the last eight, where he will face Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff. "I tried to stay aggressive. I had some chances in the second set and couldn't use them, but I'm still very happy, trying to step up the level as we go."&nbsp;The four-time Grand Slam champion continued to build momentum after an inconsistent start to his Wimbledon campaign. Unlike previous seasons, Sinner skipped all grass-court warm-up tournaments before arriving at the All England Club, and the lack of match practice showed during his opening-round encounter, where he needed five sets to overcome Miomir Kecmanovic. Since then, however, the Italian has steadily raised his level, delivering his most convincing display of the tournament in the fourth round. He remained composed under pressure, saving all five break points he faced against Mochizuki.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-making-of-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-how-india-s-cricket-ecosystem-creates-teenage-superstars-1783284126363">The making of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: How India's cricket ecosystem creates teenage superstars</a>&nbsp;The Japanese qualifier had entered the match in a light-hearted mood, joking that Sinner would ‘try to destroy him’ and revealing he planned to vary his tactics in an attempt to disrupt the top seed's rhythm. Despite Mochizuki's spirited effort, Sinner maintained control throughout the contest and never looked in danger of suffering an upset similar to his second-round defeat against Juan Manuel Cerundolo at the French Open earlier this year.&nbsp;The Italian wrapped up the victory in two hours and 25 minutes under the closed Centre Court roof, keeping alive his bid to successfully defend the Wimbledon title. Sinner also remains on course for a blockbuster semi-final showdown against seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic, provided both players continue their winning runs.

Jannik Sinner defeated Shintaro Mochizuki in straight sets to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive year and stay on course for Novak Djokovic.

Defending Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner booked his place in the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive year after defeating Japanese qualifier Shintaro Mochizuki in straight sets on Sunday. The world no. 1 overcame a determined challenge from the 151st-ranked Mochizuki to secure a 6-3, 7-6 (7/0), 6-3 victory and advance to the last eight, where he will face Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff. "I tried to stay aggressive. I had some chances in the second set and couldn't use them, but I'm still very happy, trying to step up the level as we go." The four-time Grand Slam champion continued to build momentum after an inconsistent start to his Wimbledon campaign. Unlike previous seasons, Sinner skipped all grass-court warm-up tournaments before arriving at the All England Club, and the lack of match practice showed during his opening-round encounter, where he needed five sets to overcome Miomir Kecmanovic. Since then, however, the Italian has steadily raised his level, delivering his most convincing display of the tournament in the fourth round. He remained composed under pressure, saving all five break points he faced against Mochizuki. Also Read: The making of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: How India's cricket ecosystem creates teenage superstars The Japanese qualifier had entered the match in a light-hearted mood, joking that Sinner would ‘try to destroy him’ and revealing he planned to vary his tactics in an attempt to disrupt the top seed's rhythm. Despite Mochizuki's spirited effort, Sinner maintained control throughout the contest and never looked in danger of suffering an upset similar to his second-round defeat against Juan Manuel Cerundolo at the French Open earlier this year. The Italian wrapped up the victory in two hours and 25 minutes under the closed Centre Court roof, keeping alive his bid to successfully defend the Wimbledon title. Sinner also remains on course for a blockbuster semi-final showdown against seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic, provided both players continue their winning runs.

Jannik Sinner beat Shintaro Mochizuki in straight sets to reach a fifth straight Wimbledon quarterfinal and stay on course for Novak Djokovic

Wimbledon 2026: Jannik Sinner cruises into fifth straight quarterfinal with dominant win

When Vaibhav Sooryavanshi walked onto the international stage as a teenager, the spotlight naturally fell on his extraordinary talent. Social media celebrated the fearless youngster, fans marvelled at his composure, and cricket experts spoke about his limitless potential. But beneath every teenage sensation lies a story that stretches far beyond individual brilliance. International debuts at such a young age are rarely accidents. They are the outcome of years of meticulous planning, relentless hard work, informed coaching, unwavering family support and, perhaps most importantly, a sporting ecosystem capable of recognising and nurturing talent before the rest of the world even notices it.&nbsp;Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rise is not just his personal success story. It is also a reflection of how Indian cricket has evolved into arguably the world's most efficient talent-production system, where gifted youngsters are identified early, tested rigorously and prepared for the biggest stage long before they receive an India cap. For decades, Indian cricket possessed an abundance of talent but lacked a seamless pathway from grassroots cricket to the national team. Today, that journey is significantly more structured. A promising youngster can begin at district level, graduate through state cricket, compete in age-group tournaments, represent India at junior level, impress in domestic competitions and eventually earn national selection.&nbsp;At the heart of this transformation is the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), whose sustained investment in domestic cricket and grassroots development has fundamentally changed the landscape of Indian cricket. The board's emphasis on competitive age-group tournaments, stronger state associations, improved facilities, better coaching standards and wider scouting networks has ensured that talent is discovered regardless of geography.&nbsp;&nbsp;Not long ago, cricketers from smaller towns often struggled to gain visibility despite possessing immense potential. Today, performances in age-group tournaments are closely monitored, scouts travel extensively across the country, and state associations have become significantly more proactive in identifying young talent. Whether a youngster comes from Mumbai, Ranchi, Patna or a remote district, consistent performances now speak louder than reputation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cabo-verde-receive-hero-s-welcome-after-historic-fifa-world-cup-2026-run-as-smallest-country-to-reach-knockout-stage-1783283408409">WATCH | Cabo Verde receive hero's welcome after historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run as smallest country to reach knockout stage</a>&nbsp;This merit-based system has become one of Indian cricket's greatest strengths. However, infrastructure alone does not produce international cricketers. Behind every teenage prodigy is a family that chooses belief over comfort. Long before television cameras arrive, parents become chauffeurs, financiers, nutritionists, motivators and emotional anchors. They sacrifice weekends, careers, savings and personal aspirations to ensure that their child's dream remains alive.&nbsp;Equally indispensable are coaches, whose influence extends far beyond correcting batting techniques or improving footwork. The best coaches recognise that developing an international athlete requires building character as much as skill. Technical excellence can take a batter to domestic cricket; mental resilience often determines whether he succeeds internationally. Vaibhav's development reflects this philosophy. Every young cricketer entering elite cricket today is exposed to structured coaching, video analysis, specialised fitness programmes, sports science and data-driven performance evaluation from an early age. These are advantages that previous generations could only dream of.&nbsp;Yet perhaps the greatest strength of Indian cricket lies in its domestic competitions. The transition from junior cricket to international cricket is often considered the most difficult phase in a player's career. India's domestic structure has helped bridge that gap well. Age-group tournaments such as the Vijay Merchant Trophy, Vinoo Mankad Trophy and Cooch Behar Trophy expose youngsters to high-quality competition from across the country.&nbsp;Unlike many cricketing nations where exceptional teenagers are fast-tracked with limited competitive exposure, India's pathway requires sustained excellence over multiple seasons. Every run, every innings and every tournament becomes another examination. By the time a youngster reaches the international team, he has already experienced pressure situations remarkably similar to those encountered at the highest level.&nbsp;Young players now share dressing rooms with international stars, interact with some of the finest coaches in world cricket, understand modern tactical approaches and gain exposure to elite professional environments much earlier than previous generations. The learning curve has accelerated dramatically. What once took five or six years of international cricket to understand can now be absorbed by a teenager during a single domestic season or franchise tournament.&nbsp;Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the latest product of that system, a fearless teenager carrying immense promise. More importantly, he is proof that when family, coaching, domestic cricket, infrastructure and institutional vision work in harmony, age becomes just another number.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rise highlights the strength of BCCI's domestic cricket structure, grassroots development, coaching ecosystem and unwavering family support

When Vaibhav Sooryavanshi walked onto the international stage as a teenager, the spotlight naturally fell on his extraordinary talent. Social media celebrated the fearless youngster, fans marvelled at his composure, and cricket experts spoke about his limitless potential. But beneath every teenage sensation lies a story that stretches far beyond individual brilliance. International debuts at such a young age are rarely accidents. They are the outcome of years of meticulous planning, relentless hard work, informed coaching, unwavering family support and, perhaps most importantly, a sporting ecosystem capable of recognising and nurturing talent before the rest of the world even notices it. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rise is not just his personal success story. It is also a reflection of how Indian cricket has evolved into arguably the world's most efficient talent-production system, where gifted youngsters are identified early, tested rigorously and prepared for the biggest stage long before they receive an India cap. For decades, Indian cricket possessed an abundance of talent but lacked a seamless pathway from grassroots cricket to the national team. Today, that journey is significantly more structured. A promising youngster can begin at district level, graduate through state cricket, compete in age-group tournaments, represent India at junior level, impress in domestic competitions and eventually earn national selection. At the heart of this transformation is the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), whose sustained investment in domestic cricket and grassroots development has fundamentally changed the landscape of Indian cricket. The board's emphasis on competitive age-group tournaments, stronger state associations, improved facilities, better coaching standards and wider scouting networks has ensured that talent is discovered regardless of geography. Not long ago, cricketers from smaller towns often struggled to gain visibility despite possessing immense potential. Today, performances in age-group tournaments are closely monitored, scouts travel extensively across the country, and state associations have become significantly more proactive in identifying young talent. Whether a youngster comes from Mumbai, Ranchi, Patna or a remote district, consistent performances now speak louder than reputation. Also Read: WATCH | Cabo Verde receive hero's welcome after historic FIFA World Cup 2026 run as smallest country to reach knockout stage This merit-based system has become one of Indian cricket's greatest strengths. However, infrastructure alone does not produce international cricketers. Behind every teenage prodigy is a family that chooses belief over comfort. Long before television cameras arrive, parents become chauffeurs, financiers, nutritionists, motivators and emotional anchors. They sacrifice weekends, careers, savings and personal aspirations to ensure that their child's dream remains alive. Equally indispensable are coaches, whose influence extends far beyond correcting batting techniques or improving footwork. The best coaches recognise that developing an international athlete requires building character as much as skill. Technical excellence can take a batter to domestic cricket; mental resilience often determines whether he succeeds internationally. Vaibhav's development reflects this philosophy. Every young cricketer entering elite cricket today is exposed to structured coaching, video analysis, specialised fitness programmes, sports science and data-driven performance evaluation from an early age. These are advantages that previous generations could only dream of. Yet perhaps the greatest strength of Indian cricket lies in its domestic competitions. The transition from junior cricket to international cricket is often considered the most difficult phase in a player's career. India's domestic structure has helped bridge that gap well. Age-group tournaments such as the Vijay Merchant Trophy, Vinoo Mankad Trophy and Cooch Behar Trophy expose youngsters to high-quality competition from across the country. Unlike many cricketing nations where exceptional teenagers are fast-tracked with limited competitive exposure, India's pathway requires sustained excellence over multiple seasons. Every run, every innings and every tournament becomes another examination. By the time a youngster reaches the international team, he has already experienced pressure situations remarkably similar to those encountered at the highest level. Young players now share dressing rooms with international stars, interact with some of the finest coaches in world cricket, understand modern tactical approaches and gain exposure to elite professional environments much earlier than previous generations. The learning curve has accelerated dramatically. What once took five or six years of international cricket to understand can now be absorbed by a teenager during a single domestic season or franchise tournament. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the latest product of that system, a fearless teenager carrying immense promise. More importantly, he is proof that when family, coaching, domestic cricket, infrastructure and institutional vision work in harmony, age becomes just another number.

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's journey is more than extraordinary talent. It reflects India's robust cricket ecosystem, BCCI's grassroots vision, quality coaching, domestic competitions and relentless family support

The making of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: How India's cricket ecosystem creates teenage superstars

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