Happy Hump Day, TSFers. But more importantly, happy Bobby Bonilla day. Today, like every July 1st through 2035, the New York Mets will cut the now 63-year old retired player a $1,193,248.20 check as part of the deferred compensation arrangement they struck when they bought out the remaining $5.9M on his contract in 2000.
Today’s World Cup matches:
England vs. DR Congo, 12 pm ET, FOX
Belgium vs. Senegal, 4 pm ET, FS1
USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, 8 pm ET, FOX
Norway 2 – Ivory Coast 1 Norway led 1-0
at the half thanks to a tremendous goal from Antonio Nusa, coming inside off the left wing and curling the ball into the far corner of the net. Amad Diallo equalized on a brilliant individual run slashing through the defense from the right wing. Erling Haaland scored the winner less than 10 minutes later. Martin Ødegaard had the most touches of any player on the pitch and was excellent. Warren Barton pointed out (correctly) how important a player he is and how so much of what the Norway and Arsenal captain goes unappreciated.
France 3 – Sweden 0
This match went about as you’d expect it. France are far too good for Sweden. Keeper Jacob Zetterstrom kept the scoreline from being even worse with several quality saves. Kylian Mbappe scored a brace (and in doing so, set the record for most knockout stage goals at a World Cup) and the Arsenal-linked Bradley Barcola scored as well.
Mexico 2 – Ecuador 0
Goals from Julian Quinones in the 22nd minute and Raul Jimenez in the 31st, both fantastic finishes into the top corner were all Mexico needed. They took their foot off the gas a bit, which allowed Ecuador possession and chances but La Tri couldn’t do anything with them. Piero Hincapie received a red card in second half added time for covering his mouth to say something to a Mexican player.
Some have speculated Piero said “I’m dating Sabrina Carpenter” which is apparently a rumor that has been making the rounds (that they’re seeing each other, not that he said it).
