The FIFA World Cup knockout stage continues to deliver unforgettable moments, from Harry Kane's stunning winner for England and the United States ending
a 24-year wait for a knockout victory to Belgium producing one of the greatest comebacks in tournament history. Away from football, India's T20I opener against England was washed out despite two brilliant fifties, Novak Djokovic cruised into the third round at Wimbledon, and fresh developments emerged in the Hardik Pandya trade saga.
1. Harry Kane's wonder goal sends England into World Cup last 16
Harry Kane produced one of the goals of the tournament as England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 and seal their place in the Round of 16. Trailing until the 75th minute, England drew level before Kane produced a moment of magic in the 86th minute, weaving past multiple defenders before smashing an unstoppable effort into the top corner. The strike not only booked England's meeting with Mexico in the next round but also took Kane to 13 World Cup goals, moving him past Brazilian legend Pele on the all-time scoring charts. England boss Thomas Tuchel compared Kane's instinct in front of goal to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, calling the England captain a "shark" who always senses the decisive moment.
2. USA reach World Cup last 16 despite Balogun red card
The United States recorded their first World Cup knockout victory since 2002 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the celebrations were tempered by a costly red card for star striker Folarin Balogun. Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament before being sent off in the second half following a VAR review, ruling him out of the Round of 16 clash against Belgium through suspension. Despite playing with ten men, the hosts wrapped up victory through a stunning Malik Tillman free-kick, ending a 10-match losing streak against European opposition and booking a meeting with Belgium.
3. Belgium stage astonishing comeback to stun Senegal in extra time
Belgium produced one of the greatest escapes of the World Cup after recovering from two goals down to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time. Seemingly heading for elimination, Romelu Lukaku sparked hope before Youri Tielemans headed in an 89th-minute equaliser. Tielemans then completed the comeback from the penalty spot in the 120th minute, scoring the latest winning goal in World Cup history after a dramatic VAR intervention. The remarkable victory keeps Belgium's golden generation alive and sets up a Round of 16 clash against the United States.
4. DR Congo coach learns of father's death after England defeat
One of the most emotional moments of the tournament came after DR Congo's heartbreaking defeat to England, when head coach Sebastien Desabre was informed during his post-match press conference that his father had passed away. Desabre, who had guided DR Congo to their first World Cup appearance since 1974 and their maiden knockout qualification, calmly thanked everyone before ending the press conference. His side's historic campaign saw them register their first World Cup goals, first victory and first appearance in the knockout rounds despite narrowly missing out against England.
5. India-England T20I abandoned after Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma shine
Persistent rain denied fans a result after India posted 189 for 7 in the opening T20I against England at Chester-le-Street. Abhishek Sharma smashed a breathtaking 59 from just 24 balls while captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with 68. England fought back through returning pacer Saqib Mahmood, who claimed 3 for 33 in his first international appearance for more than a year, but heavy rain after the innings break meant England never began their chase. The five-match series remains level heading into the second game.
6. Novak Djokovic brushes aside Stefanos Tsitsipas at Wimbledon
Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic produced one of his sharpest performances of the tournament to defeat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 and reach the third round for a 20th time. Djokovic struck 33 winners while committing just seven unforced errors in a clinical display that extended his head-to-head advantage over the Greek to 13-2. The Serbian now faces Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech as he continues his pursuit of another Wimbledon title.
7. Mumbai Indians and CSK deny Hardik Pandya trade talks
The speculation surrounding Hardik Pandya's future has taken another twist after both Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings publicly denied reports that trade discussions are currently underway. While both franchises admitted Pandya's future will be reviewed once internal assessments of the season are completed, they insisted no formal proposal has been discussed. Cricbuzz reports that Mumbai Indians are conducting a comprehensive review involving coaches and support staff before making any decision, with multiple franchises expected to show interest if Pandya eventually becomes available.
8. Haaland plays down Norway's chances against Brazil
Despite scoring the winner that sent Norway into the Round of 16, Erling Haaland believes his side have only "very slim" chances of upsetting Brazil. Haaland's late goal against Ivory Coast secured Norway's first-ever World Cup knockout victory, but the Manchester City striker remained realistic about the challenge awaiting his side. Norway coach Stale Solbakken, however, backed his talisman, calling Haaland the world's greatest goalscorer after he reached five goals at this World Cup.
