The knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup got underway on Sunday with drama, a late goal and a handful of stories that will have Premier League fans keeping a close eye on developments.
Canada Leave It Late to Reach Last 16
Co-hosts Canada became the first nation to book their place in the Round of 16 after a dramatic 1-0 victory over South Africa.
With the game seemingly destined for extra time, captain Stephen Eustaquio struck deep into stoppage time to send the home supporters into celebration and secure what many Canadian outlets are already describing as one of the biggest victories in the country’s football history.
Canada will now face either the Netherlands or Morocco in the next round as Jesse Marsch’s side continue their impressive run on home soil.
Manchester United Sweating on Ugarte Injury
Manchester United have been handed a major concern after reports emerged that Manuel Ugarte suffered knee ligament damage while representing Uruguay at the World Cup.
The midfielder’s injury is expected to keep him sidelined for an extended period and could have significant implications for United’s preparations ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
The Red Devils are reportedly set to receive FIFA compensation due to the injury, but the bigger concern will be how quickly the combative midfielder can return to action.
Transfer Rumours Continue During World Cup Break
The transfer market never sleeps, even during a World Cup.
Manchester United continue to be linked with several midfield targets, while reports suggest the club are assessing their options following Ugarte’s injury setback. There has also been fresh speculation regarding the futures of Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes as the summer window gathers momentum.
Liverpool, meanwhile, appear to have missed out on highly-rated winger Yan Diomande, with reports claiming the teenager is now expected to join Paris Saint-Germain despite strong interest from Anfield.
Liverpool Receive Van Dijk Boost
There was better news for Liverpool supporters after Virgil van Dijk appeared to shake off a minor injury scare during the World Cup.
The Netherlands captain had raised concerns after reporting discomfort in his upper leg earlier in the tournament, but the issue does not appear serious and he remains available for the knockout rounds.
That will come as a relief for Liverpool, who are already monitoring several injury situations involving current players and transfer targets.
West Ham Watching Soucek Closely
West Ham supporters are anxiously awaiting updates on Tomas Soucek after the midfielder was reportedly forced off during Czech Republic’s World Cup campaign.
The Hammers have several representatives at the tournament and any injury concerns will be monitored closely as the club prepares for the 2026/27 season.
Knockout Stage Storylines to Watch
With the Round of 32 now underway, attention turns to a fascinating set of fixtures over the coming days.
England’s clash with DR Congo remains one of the standout ties from a British perspective, while tournament favourites Brazil, Germany, France, Spain and Argentina all begin their knockout journeys this week.
The expanded 48-team format has already delivered several surprise packages, and with Canada now safely through, belief is growing that more shocks could be around the corner before the quarter-finals are reached.
For now, however, Sunday’s headlines belong to Canada and their stoppage-time heroics, while Manchester United fans will be hoping the news surrounding Ugarte proves less severe than first feared.
