QtrendsThe 2026 FIFA World Cup enters the knockout stage as the round of 32 kicks off, with Iran dramatically eliminated by Austria's last-second goal and Scotland's Steve Clarke stepping down after group-stage exit. Serena Williams returns to Centre Court at Wimbledon for her comeback, while Chris Evert announces she will miss the tournament due to a recurrence of ovarian cancer.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup progresses to the round of 32, with the knockout bracket now set after the conclusion of group-stage play. Matches include South Africa vs Canada as the opening tie, with Team USA also in action. Multiple outlets are tracking how each team made or missed the knockouts and what qualification scenarios lie ahead in the elimination phase.
Iran were narrowly knocked out of the World Cup after Austria scored a last-second goal, crushing Team Melli's knockout-stage dreams. Media coverage describes Iran as potentially the unluckiest side in World Cup history, with the late drama drawing widespread attention and sympathy from fans and pundits alike.
With the round of 32 set, fans and analysts are predicting the World Cup knockout stages and who will ultimately lift the trophy. The full list of last-32 ties has been confirmed and published by multiple outlets, with fixtures, results and group-stage standings available for tracking the tournament's progression.
Serena Williams has been drawn on Centre Court for her Wimbledon return in a first-round match against Maya Joint, continuing her comeback in both singles and doubles. Meanwhile, tennis Hall of Famer Chris Evert announced she will miss this year's tournament after a recurrence of ovarian cancer. The Williams sisters' return and Andy Murray's new role also feature in Wimbledon previews.
Steve Clarke has stepped down as Scotland manager following the team's World Cup group-stage elimination. Tributes highlight his strong legacy, though the exit brings a sense of relief. Attention now turns to his successor, with questions over whether Scotland will appoint a big-name overseas coach or a homegrown icon.