FOOTBALL

WSL Clears Alcohol Sales in Stands

Women’s Super League clubs
From the start of next season

WSL clubs will be allowed to provide alcohol to supporters in view of the pitch after successful trials across the top two women’s tiers. The rule change was approved by shareholders and removes a previous restriction.

Clubs can choose whether to sell alcohol at all venues or only selected grounds. Everton and promoted Charlton Athletic have already confirmed they will continue, while the men’s professional game remains under separate alcohol restrictions.

Schlotterbeck Ruled Out of World Cup

Nico Schlotterbeck
After Germany’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast

Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering medial ligament damage in his left ankle. The Borussia Dortmund centre-back was forced off at half-time against Ivory Coast.

Julian Nagelsmann said Schlotterbeck would remain with the squad for now, despite being out for several months. Antonio Rudiger is expected to regain a bigger role as Germany prepare for Ecuador and the knockout phase.

Keating Rejects New Manchester City Contract

Khiara Keating
Monday, 22 June 2026

England goalkeeper Khiara Keating has turned down Manchester City’s offer of a new contract and is uncertain over her next move. Her current deal runs until next year, but other WSL clubs are interested this summer.

The 21-year-old wants more regular minutes after starting only four WSL games last season behind Ayaka Yamashita. A move could help her rebuild England prospects before the next Women’s World Cup cycle under Sarina Wiegman.

Cape Verde Hold Uruguay to Keep Dream Alive

Cape Verde and Uruguay
Sunday, 21 June 2026

Cape Verde continued their surprise World Cup run by drawing 2-2 with Uruguay in Miami. Kevin Pina scored their first World Cup goal before Helio Varela’s second-half equaliser kept the debutants firmly in knockout contention.

Uruguay led through Maxi Araujo and Agustin Canobbio but failed to close the match, leaving Marcelo Bielsa’s side under pressure before facing Spain. Cape Verde can now qualify by getting a result against Saudi Arabia.

Neymar Completes Full Brazil Training Return

Neymar
Sunday, 21 June 2026

Neymar completed his first full training session with Brazil since reporting for World Cup duty, raising hopes he can feature against Scotland. The Santos forward missed Brazil’s first two group matches with a calf injury.

Lucas Paqueta welcomed Neymar’s return and said the squad hopes he can help soon. Brazil also remain without Raphinha, so Neymar’s availability could boost their attack before a key Group C meeting in Miami this week.

Salah Leads Egypt to First World Cup Win

Mohamed Salah and Egypt
Against New Zealand in Vancouver

Mohamed Salah scored and assisted as Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1, securing the country’s first World Cup victory. Mostafa Ziko equalised before Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet completed the historic comeback in Vancouver.

Egypt recovered from Finn Surman’s early header and now sit on four points in Group G. Their final match against Iran will decide whether they progress as group winners or face a tighter knockout qualification battle.

Chelsea Step Up Maignan Transfer Talks

Chelsea and Mike Maignan
During the summer transfer window

Chelsea have intensified contact with Mike Maignan’s representatives as they explore a move for the AC Milan goalkeeper. The France international is reportedly open to a Premier League challenge, although no formal bid has been made.

Milan want to keep Maignan, with new head coach Ruben Amorim viewing him as a key part of the project. Chelsea are testing the conditions before deciding whether to launch a serious approach in the coming weeks.

Messi Camp Rejects False Father Rumours

Lionel Messi and Argentina
Before Argentina’s match against Austria

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said the squad is united around Lionel Messi after false reports claimed his father Jorge had died. Messi’s family clarified that Jorge is receiving treatment and recovering positively amid the tournament disruption.

The misinformation caused a public fallout in Argentina, with a presenter resigning and staff reportedly dismissed. Scaloni avoided further comment and said Argentina were ready for Austria, with qualification to the round of 32 at stake.

Mexico, United States and Germany Reach Knockouts

Mexico, United States and Germany
After the latest group-stage results

Mexico, the United States and Germany have qualified for the World Cup round of 32, while Haiti, Turkey and Tunisia have been eliminated. The expanded format is starting to shape early knockout paths and third-place calculations.

Mexico sealed top spot, the United States won Group D after beating Paraguay and Australia, and Germany secured Group E. Several groups remain open, with third-place qualification making final-round scenarios more complex across the tournament.

Putellas Nears Decision as NWSL Clubs Push

Alexia Putellas
This week

Alexia Putellas is expected to choose her next club this week after leaving Barcelona. London City Lionesses remain strongly linked, but Boston Legacy and Gotham are pushing from the NWSL as transfer deadlines approach quickly.

The NWSL’s restart and pre-season timetable have increased pressure for a quick answer, while European interest also remains. Putellas must balance sporting ambition, family distance and the risk of facing Barcelona in future Champions League campaigns.