Category: Sports

INDYCAR HEADQUARTERS (Indianapolis) — I got to see the 2028 INDYCAR. And there is a lot to like. Well, it won’t be exactly what will run at the track starting in 2028. With 19 months to go before it actually is used to race, it will undergo more tweaks and adjustments. Testing starts Saturday and Sunday, with Alexander Rossi in the car on Saturday and Alex Palou in it on Sunday. It won’t have the actual race engines, as Chevrolet and Honda are still developing their power plants. Instead, it will have a 2.4-liter V-6 engine that was developed a few years ago but never used. It won’t have the hybrid system operational. But the tests over the next few months will inform INDYCAR about what might need to be changed before parts and pieces are started in mass production. INDYCAR doesn’t expect full tests of the entire field until after the 2027 season. “This weekend … is just some very basic metrics that we need to get off the car,” INDYCAR VP of Competition and Race Engineering Mike O’Gara told me and other reporters Friday afternoon when showing us the car. “Lap time is not even on our radar just yet. For a brand-new car, you really need to make sure it starts, it steers, and it stops. And then you start looking at more and more data and measuring more things. “If we get through these next couple days with a car that we know the braking system and the steering system work fine and the new damper system is doing what it’s supposed to, it’ll be a good test.” But leave no doubt, this car is well into its development. And for 2028, here are eight things that seem cool. Elements of the car that folks really might like. Things that are noticeable when taking a close look at the car. It’s designed to be faster — without compromising safety. And also, it’s about 100 pounds lighter than the current car used today. We’ll get into more of the tech elements after the test, but this is more what strikes me at first look. 1. LED Lights This was tried a handful of years ago. But trying to incorporate the system into an existing car produced too many problems with overheating and vibrations. It also caused issues with the car’s ability to work properly overall. But now the LED lights, which will show a car’s place during a race and potentially the time of the pit stop, should be good to go. Used in other series including IMSA, it will help fans know what place the car is in while it races. “Anti-vibration is built into it, everything in terms of the way that that carbon was built, so that it fits perfectly in there,” INDYCAR Senior VP of Competition and Operations Mark Silba told me and the gathered media. “There’s also been technical advances that have happened, and we worked with Dallara on that to build a panel that would be more robust. … That’s something we absolutely wanted to bring back for the fans.” 2. Front Wing The front wing still looks good. And for Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the design of the big curved sidepods should help with air flow to allow drivers who are third, fourth, fifth in line to be able to have an easier time making passes. I’m not sure if it is just the way the nose now looks toward the ground, but the front wing is distinctly INDYCAR. 3. It’s Sleek The car appears a little more narrow. It still has that soda-bottle look. It looks cleaner than the current car, and frankly it should. The current car, which debuted in 2012, has had things bolted on and added for safety or aerodynamic reasons. “There’s been a conscious effort to look at the nose-up attitude of the car in different yaw situations and to reduce lift,” O’Gara said. “The current car we’ve sort of piled all these things on. We have flaps on the tire ramps at the speedway, and we have flaps on the back of the under tray at the speedway. “We ran a spine on the current car. This car has none of that. Because all of the learnings from what those have all helped the cars from blowing over. From trying to make them more stable when you’re sideways or sliding backwards — we’ve seen those aero effects, and they’ve been integrated into the actual shape of the body of the car.” 4. Aeroscreen & Halo More Crisp The aeroscreen and halo, now incorporated into the car, definitely look better. It’s not as bulky. They describe it as having more of a fighter pilot look, and it is hard to argue with that. “When you see the car head-on, the windscreen and cockpit, it just fits better,” O’Gara said. 5. Clear Rear Panel There is a clear panel at the rear of the car that will allow people to see the engine cover. It will allow for engine manufacturer branding to be seen through the panel. There’s also a small area where fans — when just looking at the car as it sits on the grid — can see a little bit of the suspension underneath the body. 6. Steering Wheel And Fewer Knobs More of the controls will move to the steering wheel, giving the cockpit area a slightly cleaner look, while still boasting a steering wheel that looks cool. Plus, there’s a safety element. “We’ve tried to limit the number of controls in the car, so you’ll see a lot less knobs and buttons and levers and things like that,” O’Gara said. “The anti-roll bars are electronic now in the car, so they’re on electric actuators, and it’ll be up to the team to configure. But probably the thumb wheels that are on the steering wheel will adjust the anti-roll bars. “It’s going to allow the drivers to not pull their hand off the wheel when they’re making these adjustments for one, but it’s also less stuff in the cockpit for them to hit their hands.” 7. Bigger Cockpit The cockpit is bigger, allowing drivers of all sizes to be more comfortable in the car. It will also potentially be cooler. And we’re not talking about the looks in this instance but about the temperatures inside. “It’s safer because there’s more padding now around the driver,” O’Gara said. “It allows for a wider range of drivers.” Also, the seat doesn’t adjust but the controls can be moved to come toward the driver. 8. Cool Factor Which brings us to the last part of this piece. The cool factor when it comes to temperatures doesn’t mean it won’t be hot. The drivers, though, hopefully won’t feel that they are in an oven just baking throughout a race. The infrastructure needs of the current cool suit system are part of the car and there are many other ways the car is designed to be more comfortable. “The helmet cooling will be through the radiator ducts,” O’Gara said. “There’s cooling up top on the shock cover where we currently have cooling, and then underneath the car, there’s an area where … the bottom of the tub is sort of boat shaped, and at the very tip of that is a screen that comes right in under the steering column, blows air right on the driver. “So a lot more cooling for the driver.” Whew. That’s a good thing. It’s time to get started. “Teams will start receiving cars in about June of next year,” O’Gara said. “We’re going to coordinate the testing with all the teams. So, initially, it’ll be one car per team starting once the 2027 INDYCAR season finishes.”

As NFL teams open training camps this week, there are significant football numbers being unveiled. Yes, EA Sports celebrated “Madden NFL 27 Ratings Week,” with a few elite players earning the rare 99 rating and everyone else complaining. The target of their disappointment is former Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco Johnson, who made six Pro Bowls in a colorful 11-year NFL career and has found a second chapter as a “ratings adjuster” for EA Sports, traveling to games and scouting players in person for his role in choosing their rating. Johnson took a few minutes to talk with FOX Sports about the seriousness and silliness of football video game ratings and his readiness to back up his numbers when players take issue. Chomping on a cigar and wearing an MLS soccer jacket, he talked about everything from a penchant for generous tipping to his favorite receivers to the World Cup and his love of McDonald’s. What is your phone like on a day like today when players find out their ratings for the year? Johnson: In the past, when they didn’t have someone that was in charge of the ratings, they could be upset. They could complain. You can’t complain to me, because I can pull up and show you exactly what you are. I can show you why you’re an 82. You see, this game, where you disappear because you’re playing against one of the better players in the NFL. That’s why you’re rated where you are. Can you do it week in and week out against the best? You disappear; that’s why you’re not rated high. There’s a reason Myles Garrett is a f—ing 99. I’m a former player that played at a very high level and was elite at what he did. This is why you’re rated where you are: you disappear in f—ing games. I don’t want you to name specific names, but is there a position that might complain the most about ratings? Johnson: Every position complains. I’m not going to call out names, but especially skill-position DBs and receivers. Oh man, yeah. The funny thing about this is a great thing: You have 17 weeks to show me otherwise. You have 17 weeks to show me and don’t disappear. Listen, I understand you’re going to drop the ball as a defensive back. You’re going to get beat. It happens. I don’t care who you are; it shouldn’t happen often. But you can appreciate how much these numbers actually mean to players. Johnson: It meant something to me, because I’m a huge gamer. That’s a reflection of who I am. Your ratings numbers are a reflection of what you do on the field. That’s why it means so much. Your title is ratings adjuster. How much adjusting can you do based on your own opinion? Up or down a point? Two? Johnson: Yeah, I would say so. I think my input when it comes to adjusting, outside of those who are above my pay grade, my input matters, because I actually played the game. Not saying they’re not worthy of being able to analyze and make decisions based on what they can also see. Our eyes are one and the same. Even if you haven’t played the game, you can see: You know what? This guy, he’s not really what he thinks he is, and this is why. Having me in there to give that input, it pays dividends. Everything is fair, based on where everyone is rated right now. If you don’t like where you’re rated, show me on Sunday. You get to take very seriously something that’s still just a video game. Do you enjoy how seriously some people take it? Johnson: Absolutely, because it’s more than just a video game. Your production is based on how you get paid, so we base your production on your rating as well. It might just be a video game to some, but to some, it’s a serious matter. I know the 99s are elite, and you’re careful in how you give them out. Who is someone who doesn’t have a 99 this year, but is closest? Johnson: Easy, the quarterbacks, Patrick Mahomes (93 rating this year). [Matthew] Stafford and [Josh] Allen are the only two [99s] this year. Mahomes, Lamar Jackson (94 overall), of course. Can you get it done in the playoffs where it matters most? Some receivers should very well be back in the conversation. Justin Jefferson (94 overall), now you have a quarterback. The inconsistency at play at the quarterback position is why you’re not rated where you once were. Puka Nacua (98) has a chance this year to be a 99 at some point because he is really good. His body of work is phenomenal. You’re on the road for 18 weeks straight during the season. Your schedule isn’t set yet, but what’s that like for you? Johnson: I’m ready for it. I’m excited. I love it, because it allows me to still be around the game. It still allows me to be integrated into the game in some sort. Anyone who follows you on social media knows how generous you are, leaving $1,000 tips at nearly any restaurant. When did that start, and why is it still so important for you to help people out like that? Johnson: That started for me back in 2001, when I first came into some money. I remember at times not being able to tip as much as I’d like in high school, going to IHOP, going to Denny’s, hearing their stories on how the service industry or minimum wage wasn’t enough. It wasn’t a livable wage in general, and everybody, they say, ‘Well, get a better job,’ not understanding how difficult it is for certain people based on their circumstances to for one, have transportation for a better job. Everybody’s in unfortunate situations they can’t control. What I can control is the man upstairs being able to bless me in abundance, and me being able to make sure I’m going to make this individual’s day. I started the $1,000 tipping in 2001, and I’ve been doing it now for the past 25 years. Shannon [Sharpe] and I had a funny argument on “Nightcap” about this. He tips based on service, and a lot of people jumped on me about, “Well, if the service is bad, I’m not tipping.” The first thing I say is we’ve lived in this world a very long time, and we’ve all dealt with some goddamn idiots. So there’s no telling what this server had to deal with before you. I’m always tipping $1,000 because you never know what the person had to go through, had to deal with before you got there. Do you think servers know who you are now? Are they fighting to get your table at places? Johnson: I like when they’re not aware, but sure, especially when I’m in Miami and when I’m in Cincinnati, I go to restaurants, and they already know what’s coming. I just left Charlotte after two days. They had no idea, but they knew once I left. It’s something I will always continue to do as long as the man upstairs continues to bless me. I will always do that. I know you’re a huge soccer fan, and you make a point to get to the biggest games. If I give you a chance to brag, who are the elite soccer players you’ve been able to meet in person? Johnson: That’s easy. Multiple times, obviously the two best in the world, the GOATs, depending on who you ask, would be Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi. I’ve met them since Messi was a baby. Not a literal baby, but at Barcelona, I was there when he debuted. Ronaldinho and I have met. We’re friends now. Cristiano and I are friends since he was at Sporting Lisbon. [Mario] Balotelli, [Paul] Pogba, [Gerard] Piqué, Marcelo. Oh, my goodness! The list goes on and on. Son Heung-Min, meeting one of my favorite South Korean players who played for Tottenham. Sol Campbell, Thierry Henry, [Zlatan] Ibrahimovic. Oh, my goodness. Samuel Eto’o. Let me think. Neymar, obviously. Brazilian Ronaldo, who I’ve met twice; he doesn’t speak good English, but “That’s Ocho, I know his face.” Kaka and I became friends when he was here at Orlando City. Antoine Griezmann, who played at Atletico and for the French national team, he’s now at Orlando City and I know him extremely well. Just to name a few. Every offseason, as soon as the season ends, I just leave and go to Europe and I hop from city to city. Because of me being with Reebok or when I was with Nike, they bridge the gap to meet the players easily. How proud were you of how the United States handled hosting a World Cup? Johnson: It was beautiful. It was beautiful. The fact that we did such a phenomenal job, Gianni [Infantino] having the World Cup here in the U.S. and all the parties and power that be were involved, converted a lot of people into loving the game of soccer. It’s so difficult for us to appreciate here because we have so many other sports to choose from, but getting a better cultural aspect on how good and how awesome those games could be, especially for those able to attend matches in person. Listen, we love our sports here. We think we’re crazy about them. They went crazy in New York about the Knicks winning a championship. Go to a regular game in Europe. We got a small sample size, an appetizer of what it’s like for them culturally when it comes to the beautiful game. I think it was a great thing and we converted a lot of fans. I think the MLS will take over from here, continuing to grow the game here in the States. Unrelated: How many days out of 365 in a year are you eating at McDonald’s? Johnson: Honestly, maybe 362. I just call that a fasting day. Always the same McDonald’s? Johnson: Any time I’m in Miami, it’s the same McDonald’s. When I’m in Cincinnati, it’s the same McDonald’s over in Covington. When I travel, it’s a little bit different. Wherever the closest one is to the hotel, that’s where I frequent. I do eat other things. What do you think of this year’s Bengals? The offense will be great, but what about the defense? Johnson: That’s the problem. With the concerns, I’m hoping those voids are filled. Having Brian Cook come in, Dexter Lawrence to help with the run, we have some young linebackers who played somewhat well, had their ups and downs as rookies. I’m looking for them to make that next step. I’m excited for us. I’m not worried about us offensively. I’m worried about us defensively, and our defense has been our Achilles heel for a very long time. If we can have a good year defensively and we score 35 or 30 a game like we already did, if we don’t allow the other team to score 40, I’m happy. I don’t know what’s going to happen. I know we made the improvements necessary to give us the best chance to win. You had one year with the Patriots. What’s your favorite Tom Brady story? Johnson: My favorite Tom Brady story, I can’t even tell. It’s just personal. Athletes confide in you in a way that it would never get out, and that’s something that you would never tell. But Tommy, Tommy is awesome, man. He’s one of those guys you see on TV. To see him as a quarterback, it’s like if God said, “You know what, I’m going to make the perfect person.” Not only a person, the perfect football player that people can look up to. It is him, man. Words can’t describe what Tom means to me, not as a teammate but as a friend. Who are your top five receivers in today’s NFL? Johnson: That’s easy. I’m always putting Uno first. Ja’Marr Chase always goes first. Justin Jefferson would be 2. Three is tricky. I’m going to slash it between Puka Nacua and JSN (Jaxon Smith-Njigba). The four and five get tricky because there are so many people worthy of that slot. We could go CeeDee Lamb. The way George Pickens played last year, we could put George there as well. What about A.J. Brown? What about DeVonta Smith? You know, it’s so tough. I’m just going to name those four, because there are so many others that are worthy, and I’m not trying to piss anybody off. Last year, you were way ahead in picking the Panthers to win their division. Who are your breakout teams for 2026? Johnson: That’s a great question. Can I go out on a limb and say the New York Jets? I’m not sure that limb is as sturdy as it was last year when I said the Bears and Panthers and stood on a table and beat my chest about them. They did exactly what I said they were going to do. I want to say the Jets. I think Aaron Glenn, in his second year, has a tremendous amount of change offensively, having a quarterback in Geno Smith with the arm talent like no other up there with Matt Stafford and Aaron Rodgers, regardless of what people may think about it. Garrett Wilson should have a year, and then for them to steer that ship, changing some of the bad tastes people have had in their mouths over the years.

It wasn’t the World Cup that Germany had hoped for following an early exit in the round of 32, thus stretching its drought of not reaching at least the semifinals to three tournaments. The four-time champions weren’t tabbed to win it all, but there’s always expectations of a deep run for this team. Things started off on the right foot with 7-1 win over debut side Curaçao in their Group E opener. That followed a 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast, but then 2-1 loss to Ecuador to close group stage play set the Germans back. Then it was a loss on penalties after a 1-1 draw to Paraguay in the round of 32 that sent the Germans home. So what’s next for Germany’s top players after the 2026 World Cup? Havertz finished with three goals for Germany, including two in the 7-1 victory over Curaçao. He scored the equalizer in the game against Paraguay, but his penalty attempt against Oscar Gill was saved. Havertz was key to Arsenal’s Premier League winning campaign and scored in the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain. He’ll be back in action for the Gunners, who’ll look to defend its league crown. Things have been rocky lately for Germany’s talented attacking midfielder, who saw his first season at Liverpool fall short of lofty expectations. He scored just five goals in Premier League action amid questions on which position best suited him. At the World Cup, he finished with three assists but couldn’t find the back of the net. He’ll now head back to Liverpool under new manager Andoni Iraola, where Wirtz will look to get back on track for both club and country. Undav was Germany’s best player at the tournament despite being used as a substitute for most of it. He finished with three goals and two assists, including bagging a brace in the win over the Ivory Coast. A well-traveled veteran at age 30, Undav returns to Stuttgart in the Bundesliga, where he has been one of the team’s most consistent scorers. Regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers of all-time, Neuer became the oldest Germany player to feature at a major tournament, breaking the record previously held by Lothar Matthäus at 40 years and 79 days. Neuer was the sole player on this squad who was part of the 2014 Germany team that won the World Cup. With four editions on his résumé and with the most World Cup games played by a goalkeeper, he’ll go down as a legend of the game. Neuer retired from international duty after this summer, the second time he did so after initially saying he was done after the 2024 European Championship tournament. He continues to play for Bayern Munich, where he equally holds numerous records. He has a staggering 13 Bundesliga titles and two Champions League titles to his name.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Sports fans looking to trade on UFC Fight Night markets this weekend can do so on both Polymarket and Kalshi. New users can also take advantage of welcome offers, including Polymarket promo code FOX for a $20 trading bonus and Kalshi promo code FOXSPORTS for up to $500 in bonuses. This weekend’s card marks the UFC’s first-ever event in Serbia as UFC Fight Night: Uros Medić vs. Daniel Rodriguez takes place at Belgrade Arena. The main event features hometown favorite Uroš Medić against veteran Daniel Rodriguez in a five-round welterweight showdown. Both fighters come in on three-fight winning streaks, with Medić looking to capitalize on home support after three consecutive first-round knockout victories. Rodriguez returns to the octagon after more than a year away from competition hoping to spoil the Serbian’s rise. Whether you’re trading on the UFC, MLB, the WNBA, or other live sports markets, new users can use Polymarket promo code FOX to receive a $20 trading bonus and Kalshi promo code FOXSPORTS to unlock up to $500 in bonuses before this weekend’s action begins. For more information and full terms and conditions, visit our Kalshi promo code page. How to Claim the Kalshi Welcome Bonus Kalshi Chances For more information and full terms and conditions, visit our Polymarket promo code page. How to Claim the Polymarket Promo with Code FOX Polymarket Chances Event Details & Schedule The Matchup Breakdown Main Card Lineup

Seattle Stadium was the venue for a thrilling and dramatic matchup between Belgium and Senegal in the Round of 32, where in the end, it was the Red Devils who took the 3-2 victory with a remarkable comeback display in added extra time. The goal, a penalty awarded five minutes after the 120th-minute mark, was indeed the latest winner in World Cup history. This was by far the most dramatic match of the tournament. It deserved its own miniseries. Goals from Habib Diarra and a work of art from Ismaila Sarr secured the goals for Senegal at the start, and it appeared that was all that was needed in order to secure the win, but in incredible fashion, Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans took it back to 2-2 in the late moments of the match, which sent the game to a dramatic finale in extra time. That’s when the UEFA side really started to find its rhythm and kept knocking at the door for a winner. And so, as we reached a certainty of penalties, Tielemans was fouled inside the box; it was confirmed by the official thanks to reviewing it on screen. Aston Villa’s man took it with perfection and netted the winning goal to send his team to the Round of 16. As for Senegal? A heartbreaking defeat where the Lions of Teranga will probably look back at the tape and say to themselves: how on earth did we lose that? Here are my takeaways. 1. In Football, Nothing Ever Is As It Seems For almost the entirety of the match, Senegal controlled this match.  Senegal’s expected-goal (xG) metric was far superior (2.71 to Belgium’s 0.53) and even though I am not an xG super-nerd who totally believes in the fact that it determines outcomes, I am a believer in the laws of probability. It was assumed that the West African team did more than enough to secure the victory. But assumptions, my friends, is the mother of all party crashers. You can never rely on them. Consequently, in the space of three minutes and out of nowhere, Belgium turned the game around as Lukaku and Tielemans equalized in the 83rd and 86th minute, respectively. This is the best example of World Cup action. You can’t ever take your eye off it because all it takes is one attempt. 2. Tielemans-Trossard Quarrel Fueled Rally In the 72nd minute, when all seemed lost for Belgium, the Aston Villa midfielder clashed with Leandro Trossard as the duo were in the middle of a heated exchange before the hydration break to the point that they had to be separated. The Belgians were falling apart and crumbling under desperation. But in actuality, it was the fire that was needed in order to inspire the comeback. And wouldn’t you know it? In the 86th minute, both combined for the all-important leveler as Trossard crossed in for a great ball as Tielemans headed it in. And in extra time, Tielemans, who had scored the opening goal for Villa in the Europa League final back in May, scored a clutch penalty to earn the precious win. Sometimes, even teammates need to be pushed against each other in order to get the best out of them. Tielemans’ argument with Trossard sparked something inside of him. 3. Senegal Can Only Blame Itself It was a gut-wrenching loss and one that surely broke the hearts of all Senegalese fans. And I truly feel for them. But the team has only itself to blame. At 2-0 up, with seven minutes remaining in regular time, Thiaw should have done a better job at protecting what it had and become more defense-minded. It was also losing the ball in silly moments and becoming extremely careless in possession and so it allowed cross after cross from Belgium. I think Edouard Mendy was sorely missed too because I think some of those goals could have been avoided. Unfortunately, Mory Diaw had a terrible match. Knockout football is never about how you start. It’s how you finish. And Senegal forgot this precious lesson. 4. Despite Loss, Sarr Was Tremendous The 28-year-old forward/winger is so good at playing across the front line, he can pretty much go anywhere and be a nightmare against an opponent. On Wednesday, manager Pape Thiaw decided to place him as the target man with Sadio Mané and liman Ndiaye on either side. It worked to perfection as Sarr capitalized on every ball to make it dangerous for the Belgian defensive line, whilst getting on the end of any cross that came his way. The start of the match saw the Lions of Teranga with a lot of possession and making some great opportunities, including in the 14th minute when Ismaïla Sarr’s effort hit the post and then forced Thibaut Courtois to clear the ball. But Sarr kept going as his header set up the first goal. His second? To me, it was a thing of beauty as he received a beautiful ball from Moussa Niakhaté and with a lovely first touch and finish (memories of Dennis Bergkamp’s goal against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup quarterfinals) he made it 2-0. It was a moment of perfection. What a match from Sarr, who became his country’s all-time scorer at this tournament with four goals.

The knockout stage never disappoints, and it doesn’t appear like it will at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. After its dominant 3-0 win over Sweden on Tuesday, France has extended its gap as the favorite to win the World Cup. And while France remains the heavy favorite, Mexico surged up the oddsboard after its 2-0 win over Ecuador on Tuesday. On Wednesday, after its historic comeback against Senegal, Belgium skyrocketed up the oddsboard. Entering the day at +6000 to win the World Cup, the Red Devils saw its odds plummet all the way down to +40000 after trailing 2-0 in the 85th minute. Then, history struck. Belgium became the first team in World Cup history to avoid defeat in 90 minutes while trailing by two goals after the 85th minute. Its two goals in a three-minute stretch sent the match to extra time, where Youri Tielemans drilled a penalty to cap off the improbable comeback win. Belgium is now +3500 to lift the trophy and will face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 16. Let’s dive into the full odds via FanDuel Sportsbook as of July 1. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 2026 World Cup Winner Odds France: +185 (bet $10 to win $28.50 total)Argentina: +420 (bet $10 to win $52 total)Spain: +700 (bet $10 to win $80 total)England: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total)Brazil: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total)Portugal: +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)Morocco: +2200 (bet $10 to win $230 total) Mexico: +2700 (bet $10 to win $280 total) United States: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)Colombia: +3300 (bet $10 to win $340 total)Belgium: +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)Norway: +4000 (bet $10 to win $410 total)Senegal: +5000 (bet $10 to win $510 total)Switzerland: +7500 (bet $10 to win $760 total)Croatia: +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)Canada:+20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total) Here’s what to know about this oddsboard: The Favorite: France is the solo favorite atop the oddsboard. It opened its pursuit for a third World Cup title with a 3-1 win against Senegal and a dominant 3-0 win over Iraq. Les Bleus followed that up with a 4-1 win over Norway on Friday to clinch Group I. Now, after another commanding win, in which it scored three goals yet again, this time in the Round of 32, France will play Paraguay in a Round of 16 showdown on July 4. Upset City: Prior to Monday’s Germany-Paraguay matchup, the Germans were a -700 favorite to advance to the Round of 16, after having won Group E. Meanwhile, Paraguay finished third in Group D and lost 4-1 to the United States to open the tournament. But none of that mattered on Monday, after Paraguay took a 1-0 lead, then held on to force the game to penalty kicks, where it defeated Germany 4-3. Wow. Germany had previously never lost a penalty shootout in World Cup history (4-0). It was one of the largest upsets in World Cup history based on ranking, with Germany ranked 10th in the world and Paraguay ranked 41st.

The round of 32 rolls on at the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup with more surprises in store as teams with different styles and different expectations will square off. The day begins in Los Angeles, where one of the pre-tournament favorites in Spain will take on an Austria team that will be looking to relentlessly press its way to a upset. The tournament then shifts to Toronto, where Croatia and Portugal meet in a game that will be highlighted by a clash of two of the game’s best players over the past two decades in Cristian Ronaldo and Luka Modrić. The tournament remains in Canada for the day’s final game in Vancouver, where an improving Switzerland will take on an explosive Algeria team that takes a lot of risks and plays on the edge. Here is all you need to know for Thursday at the World Cup. When: Thursday, July 2, 3 p.m. ET Where: Los Angeles TV: FOX Stream: Watch three days free on FOX One As one of the tournament’s leading contenders, Spain will get its knockout campaign underway on Thursday afternoon when it takes on Austria at Los Angeles Stadium. After being held to a stunning 0-0 draw by Cape Verde in its group stage opener, it has been smooth sailing for Spain, which is yet to concede a goal at the tournament. Following the Cape Verde result, Luis de la Fuente’s team defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 and Uruguay 1-0 to win the group. The biggest concern for Spain entering this game is that wingers Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino are not expected to start due to injuries sustained in the win over Uruguay. Obviously, that will place an increased burden on budding superstar Lamine Yamal and Atlético Madrid mainstay Alex Baena to provide width to the Spanish attack and combine with center forward Mikel Oyarzabal. But beyond them, the options are limited. Spain’s strength, however, is in its midfield triangle of Pedri, Rodri, and Mikel Merino, who are among the best in the world in possession. But this game will be a clash of styles. Under manager Ralf Rangnick, Austria presses intensely and relentlessly. If Austria ever loses possession, its players immediately press in an attempt to win the ball back quickly. It will be a huge test for either team to pull off its game plan. Austria will attempt to force turnovers from the best-possession national team in the world, while Spain rarely presses as much as what the Austrians will attempt in this game. Austria’s style of play has the team frequently walking a thin line between success and failure because if the press is ineffective, opponents typically have space to exploit. But this risky approach nearly cost the team dearly against Algeria in the group stage finale. In that game, Austria squandered two leads and then fell behind in stoppage time only to find a last-minute equalizer to advance. Rangnick’s team is very much living on borrowed time at this World Cup. If Austria is going to pull off a stunning upset in this game, Marko Arnautovic will have to play a key role. The 37-year-old center forward has been dealing with an injury that has limited his involvement to no more than 45 minutes in any game. But he has been excellent whenever on the field, having scored two very important goals and served as the team’s emotional leader. Player to Watch The Atlético Madrid man has been sharp in Spain’s last two games, both wins, and was the Man of the Match after scoring a goal in the 1-0 win over Uruguay. In a game against a pressing team, Baena will have the opportunity to exploit space if he can maintain possession under pressure. Baena is playing well and should be a key to Spain’s attack against Austria. When: Thursday, July 2, 7 p.m. ET Where: Toronto TV: FOX Stream: Watch three days free on FOX One Portugal and Croatia will meet on Thursday at Toronto Stadium in one of the most star-studded games in this World Cup’s round of 32. At front and center will be an emotional battle between two legendary former Real Madrid teammates in Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić who are both fighting to keep alive their final hope of winning a World Cup. Neither team has been convincing during the group stage. Portugal was held to lackluster draws by DR Congo and Colombia while only defeating debutants Uzbekistan 5-0. Croatia, meanwhile, has fared only slightly better. After a 4-2 loss to England, Croatia had to fight much harder than expected to notch a 1-0 win over Panama and a 2-1 win over Ghana. For Portugal, Bruno Fernandes is the creator, and he will have to win in the midfield against Croatia, which features Modrić, Mateo Kovačić, and Petar Sučić. It will be a clash of styles as Portugal thrives at speeding the game up while Croatia will look to slow the game down. Because of that, the game will likely be decided in transition play and whether Portugal can get wingers like Rafael Leão and Pedro Neto involved. But many eyes will be on Modrić and Ronaldo, two iconic players who are now over 40. Ronaldo will be playing in his ninth career World Cup knockout but is still searching for his first goal in this stage of the tournament. Modrić is the midfield engine and is coming off a great performance in the win over Ghana where he was everywhere on both sides of the ball. But doing that against Portugal will require an even higher level. Player to Watch In a game such as this with contrasting styles, both teams will be looking have the game played on their terms. For Portugal, that begins with Fernandes who is the engine of the team’s midfield. He is very direct and plays the game with a lot of energy. He will not want to let Croatia slow the game down and become choppy. Portugal struggled against Colombia in the group stage finale, but Fernandes was at the heart of Portugal’s best moments. When: Thursday, July 2, 11 p.m. ET Where: Vancouver TV: FS1 Stream: Watch three days free on FOX One After both Switzerland and Algeria had uneven campaigns in their respective World Cup group stages, the two teams will meet on Thursday at Vancouver Stadium in the round of 32. Switzerland began the tournament with a very poor performance in a 1-1 draw with Qatar but since then, Murat Yakin’s squad has been on the rise with a convincing 4-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina followed by a 2- win over cohosts Canada. Algeria, meanwhile, have been all over the place in its first three games of the tournament. The lopsided loss to Argentina was expected in the opening game, but the Desert Foxes needed to come from behind in the second half to defeat Jordan 2-1 and then get a result in a wild 3-3 draw with Austria where Algeria came from behind twice, but then blew a lead late to settle for a point. Algeria should be prepared in this game as its head coach, Vladimir Petković, was the head coach of Switzerland for seven years from 2014-2021. Many of the players on Switzerland came into the national team under Petković, and he knows the team well. Despite Petković’s history with Switzerland, the two teams play with very different styles. The Swiss team is more structured and disciplined with its game plan under Yakin, while Algeria is more explosive and lethal on counter-attacks. The team’s attack is driven by veteran wingers Houssem Aouar and Riyad Mahrez, who both play for Saudi Arabian clubs but who both have experience with top European teams. For Switzerland, Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler will be tasked with controlling the midfield and preventing the game from becoming wide open, which is what Algeria would prefer. Player to Watch Switzerland’s 20-year-old midfielder has been one of the top young players of this tournament, with three goals and an assist in the group stage. In the 2-1 win over Canada, the Geneva-born Manzambi was arguably the best player on the field with a goal and an assist. Manzambi has had a great year at the club level with SC Freiburg in the Bundesliga. He was also named the Europa League Young Player of the Season for 2025-26, and he excels at making late runs into the box. He could be one of the keys to victory for Switzerland in this game.

In a dramatic 2026 World Cup round of 32 match, Belgium came back from a two-goal deficit to beat Senegal, 3-2, in extra time. The Red Devils scored two back-to-back goals against Senegal in the 86th and 89th minutes to tie the match and ultimately sending it to extra time. Then midfielder and captain Youri Tielemans scored in the last minute of extra time to secure the victory and get his team to the next World Cup round. Now, what’s next for Belgium at the World Cup? Here is who the Red Devils will play in the round of 16 and their potential path to making the World Cup final. Who Could Belgium Play In The Round Of 16? Following Belgium’s win over Senegal in the round of 32, it now will play one of two teams in the round of 16: USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina, which face off Wednesday night in the round of 32 at San Franscisco Bay Area Stadium. The USA is ranked No. 17, while Bosnia and Herzegovina is No. 64. After advancing to the World Cup round of 16, Belgium will play either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina at Seattle Stadium on Monday, July 6 at 8 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One. Who Could Belgium Play In The Quarterfinals? If Belgium advances past the round of 16, it has four potential opponents it could face in the quarterfinals: Portugal, Croatia, Spain or Austria. In the round of 32, Portugal will play Croatia in Toronto and Spain will play Austria in Los Angeles on Thursday. In FIFA’s latest rankings, Spain is No. 2, Portugal is No. 5, Croatia is No. 11 and Austria is No. 24. Who Could Belgium Face In The Semifinals? If it makes it that far, there are four possible opponents for Belgium in the semifinals: France, Paraguay, Morocco and tournament co-host Canada. In the round of 16 on Saturday, Morocco and Canada face off at 1 p.m. ET at Houston Stadium, and France and Paraguay play at 5 p.m. ET at Philadelphia Stadium. If Belgium reaches the semifinals, that match will be at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14, at 3 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One.

In one of the biggest matches in United States men’s national team history, the Stars and Stripes will be at full strength. The USA will start its first 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday with its strongest lineup — the same as its first World Cup match against Paraguay — which includes star forward Christian Pulisic. FOX Sports’ Jenny Taft reported Wednesday before the match that Pochettino told her Pulisic is fit and available to play the full match, along with extra time if needed. The USA manager also has been pushing his players to “make sure you play with no regrets,” Taft noted. Through the USA’s run, Pulisic has been dealing with a lingering calf injury, and he’s only played 77 minutes total during this World Cup. Although he contributed to two scores against Paraguay in the Americans’ World Cup opener, he missed the second match against Australia before returning — though not starting — against Türkiye. Goalkeeper: Matt Freese Defender: Antonee “Jedi” Robinson Defender: Tim Ream Defender: Chris Richards Defender: Alex Freeman Midfielder: Tyler Adams Midfielder: Malik Tillman Midfielder: Weston McKennie Attacker: Christian Pulisic Attacker/Defender: Sergiño Dest Forward: Folarin Balogun The United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina will kick off at 8 p.m. ET (FOX/FOX One).

The United States is set to take on Bosnia and Herzegovina at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in the Round of 32, looking to win only its second knockout-stage game at a men’s FIFA World Cup. The U.S. finished first in Group D and earned the right to play Bosnia and Herzegovina, which finished third in Group B. Bosnia and Herzegovina is playing in its first knockout-stage game in its history at a major tournament. Raphael Claus from Brazil is the referee assigned for this one, alongside his fellow Brazilians Danilo Manis and Rodrigo Figueiredo. Dario Herrera from Argentina will be the fourth official. This will be Claus’ second assignment of the tournament, after he was the head referee for Spain’s 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on June 21. Claus gave out two yellow cards in that fixture. He also refereed two games at the 2022 World Cup, both group-stage matches, so this will be his first knockout-stage game at a World Cup, despite his experience in CONMEBOL. The VAR room will consist of Venezuela’s Juan Soto, Colombia’s Nicolas Gallo and France’s Jerome Brisard. Here is the full team of referees: