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SAN JOSE, Calif. — Malik Tillman likes watching penalty shootouts. But participating in them? Not so much.

“I try to avoid it,” the American midfielder said before training on Tuesday. “Everyone tries to avoid it. But sometimes, it happens, and, of course, you have to be ready for it because you never know. We’ll give our best to finish the game in 90 minutes.

The U.S. men’s national team faces Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32 at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Wednesday night. With the 2026 World Cup now in the knockout stage, any match that remains tied after regulation and extra time comes down to one thing: the dreaded, stomach-churning penalty shootout.

On Monday, Germany and the Netherlands were both sent home after cruel and dramatic penalty shootout losses to Paraguay and Morocco, respectively. Across the two shootouts, players missed 10 penalty kicks, setting a World Cup record for the most misses in a single day. It was the first time in history the four-time champion Germans left the World Cup via penalties.

It was a stark reminder of the stakes now facing the U.S. because, in the knockout stage, one mistake can send a team home.

“We’ve seen two big boys fall,” defender Chris Richards told a group of reporters. “So it’s just a matter of us getting through this game and putting on a good performance, and, hopefully, we continue that.”

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The last time the USA found itself in a penalty shootout was exactly one year ago, when it beat Costa Rica in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinals after a six-round thriller. The win came largely thanks to Matt Freese’s heroics in goal, as he made three saves to send the squad through.

Tillman, who missed a penalty in the first half of that match, bounced back by converting in the shootout. He said that while players can practice penalties all they want, it’s “impossible” to replicate what it actually feels like in that spotlight.

U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino agrees. That’s part of why the squad has used sports performance company neuro11 for the past 18 months. The company works with elite athletes and teams around the world — including Liverpool F.C. and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez — using innovative brain-based training and neurofeedback to help athletes stay sharp and composed under pressure.

Pochettino has a dedicated group of coaches and analysts focused on neuro11 and penalty kicks, working to improve the team’s execution from the spot and expand the pool of PK takers, much like another group uses TrackMan technology to aid in set pieces.

“I don’t want to say too much,” Pochettino said Tuesday, careful not to reveal information that could give a future shootout opponent an edge. “As a coaching staff, we believe that we can provide some tools to the players to be better or to improve or to try to find the best way to face this type of situation, knowing that it’s impossible to replicate the emotional stress and the pressure and expectation, how you are going to feel.

“Because it depends on your performance – if you came from the bench, if you played 120 minutes, if you are tired, if you are not tired. If you feel something in your body, that is impossible when you practice penalties to have the same feeling.”

Pochettino added that he and his staff choose the penalty kicking order.

“It is going to be our decision – the No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, No. 4, No. 5,” Pochettino said. “We are trying to arrive at this moment and not ask the player if they feel confident or not confident.”

Malik Tillman and the art of the penalty. (Photo by Omar Vega/USSF/Getty Images)

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According to a German media report, there was controversy over who would take Germany’s sixth penalty, as some players didn’t want to. Ultimately, it was Jonathan Tah, whose miss proved decisive and allowed Paraguay to convert and advance.

“I don’t know about that situation, but yeah, it’s a difficult thing,” star forward Christian Pulisic said when asked about Germany’s exit. “The guys who feel the most confident to go up and shoot will want to go shoot. I think that’s normal. There will be some players that maybe don’t practice them as much and don’t feel as good. I don’t think it’s necessarily a big problem.

“Haven’t been in many shootouts with these guys, but I feel like it’s a pretty brave, courageous team. I feel like guys will give it a go.”

How Do USA Players Take Penalties?

Penalty kick style and technique have evolved over the years. Some players opt for stutter steps and elaborate long or short run-ups, while others simply place the ball and strike it.

Tillman said he’s experimented with different approaches throughout his career and doesn’t necessarily take them the same way he once did. Still, he added, “I’m confident in the way I take them.”

Richards, who scored a penalty for Premier League club Crystal Palace last season, doesn’t overthink it.

“I don’t want to give away too much,” Richards said with a big smile. “Some guys change it up. Me personally, I’m a defender for a reason, so I’m gonna put it down and place it where I think it needs to go.”

Chris Richards and Matt Freese were part of the USA’s penalties against Costa Rica at the 2025 Gold Cup. (Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

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Pulisic doesn’t read too much into everyone else’s process.

“Everyone has their own style,” said Pulisic, who also noted that he’s feeling good after dealing with a calf injury that has limited his time on the field. “I don’t think you watch [the Germany and Netherlands shootouts] and can take so much away and try to change your style in one day. I mean, it’s just part of the game. 

“It’s an extremely hard thing to do for sure. It takes a lot of courage and it’s not easy. Goalkeepers are getting better and better every single year. Everyone has their individual style, and you just go with what you feel most confident with.”

All this is to say, the U.S. hopes any penalty shootout talk is moot during their run in this World Cup.

“Ultimately, you don’t want to get there,” Richards said. “But honestly, we’ve done a lot of training with penalty shootouts, so if it comes down to it, I think every guy on this team is going to step up and take it.”

Zlatan & Thierry Henry Preview United States’ Round of 32 Matchup vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

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France blew past Sweden with a 3-0 victory to advance to the round of 16. Kylian Mbappé found the back of the net twice, curling a shot around the goalkeeper with his right foot in the first half. He latched onto Bradley Barcola’s through ball for a right-footed finish in the second half. Then Barcola got on the scoresheet for good measure. 

After the impressive win, what’s next for France at the World Cup? Here is who it will play in the round of 16 and the potential path to making the World Cup final. 

Kylian Mbappé Scores Brace vs Sweden 🇫🇷 His Third in 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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Who Will France Play In The Round Of 16?

After beating Sweden in the round of 32 on Tuesday, Francewill face Paraguay, which beat Germany on Monday. The round of 16 match between France and Paraguay will be Saturday, July 4, at 5 p.m. ET at Philadelphia Stadium (watch on FOX and stream on FOX One). 

Who Could France Face In The Quarterfinals?

If France defeats Paraguay in the round of 16, it has two potential opponents in the quarterfinals. Canada or Morocco are France’s potential quarterfinals opponents. Canada beat South Africa on Sunday to advance to the round of 16, while Morocco topped the Netherlands on Monday. 

In FIFA’s rankings, Canada is ranked No. 30, while Morocco is No. 6.

If France reaches the quarterfinals, it’ll play at Boston Stadium on Thursday, July 9, at 4 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One.

Who Could France Face In The Semifinals?

There are eight possibilities for France in the semifinals: Portugal, Croatia, Spain, Austria, USA, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Belgium and Senegal. 

If Francereaches the semifinals, it’ll play at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14, at 3 p.m. ET on FOX and FOX One.

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The round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup isn’t complete yet, but we’re starting to get a look at what the round of 16 will look like.

As the biggest World Cup ever continues, the round of 32 will be completed on Friday, July 3, and the round of 16 will commence on Saturday, July 4. 

So, with tickets being punched into the next round, here is what the round of 16 looks like: 

Saturday, July 4

Houston Stadium (1 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

The first matchup of the round of 16 is set.

Morocco defeated the Netherlands in penalty kicks on Monday night, advancing to the round of 16 for the second time in as many World Cups. It’s also the third World Cup that Morocco has reached the round of 16.

Canada became the first team to punch its ticket into the round of 16 with its dramatic victory over South Africa on Sunday. It marked Canada’s first knockout stage win as it’ll play in the round of 16 for the first time ever.

Morocco was ranked seventh in the most recent World Cup rankings, while Canada was ranked 30th.

Netherlands vs Morocco Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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Philadelphia Stadium (5 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Paraguay upset Germany in the round of 32, defeating Germany in penalty kicks. It’s the first time since 2010 that Paraguay has advanced to the round of 16 at the World Cup. Paraguay didn’t qualify in each of the last three World Cups, either. 

Germany vs Paraguay Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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Sunday, July 5 

New York New Jersey Stadium (4 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Brazil became the second team to punch its ticket into the round of 16 with its comeback win over Japan on Monday. In the final minutes of stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli scored the game-winning goal to give his side a 2-1 victory. It marks the 11th straight World Cup that Brazil has reached the round of 16. Norway took down Ivory Coast 2-1 off the heels of a late Erling Haaland goal to set up an epic showdown between Norway’s talented goalscorer and the dynamic presence that is Vinícius Júnior.

Brazil vs Japan Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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Mexico/Ecuador vs. England/DR Congo

Mexico City Stadium (8 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Monday, July 6

Portugal/Croatia vs. Spain/Austria

Dallas Stadium (3 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

USA/Bosnia & Herzegovina vs. Belgium/Senegal

Seattle Stadium (8 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

Tuesday, July 7

Argentina/Cape Verde vs. Australia/Egypt

Atlanta Stadium (Noon ET, FOX, FOX One)

Switzerland/Algeria vs. Colombia/Ghana

Vancouver Stadium (4 p.m. ET, FOX, FOX One)

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Lionel Messi broke the all-time record for goals at the FIFA World Cup early into this year’s tournament; Kylian Mbappé is doing everything he can to make sure that Messi doesn’t leave with it.

In France’s 3-0 win over Sweden at New York New Jersey Stadium on Tuesday, Mbappé added another two goals to his all-time World Cup tally, bringing his total number of career World Cup goals to 18, one away from Messi’s record-breaking 19. Mbappé has reached 18 goals in 18 World Cup games; Messi has played in 29 World Cup games in his career.

Mbappé also scored his 9th and 10th World Cup knockout stage goals against Sweden, breaking a tie with Brazilian greats Leonidas and Ronaldo for the most in the history of the tournament.

After a give-and-go with Ousmane Dembélé, Mbappé scored on a terrific individual effort in the 45th minute. Mbappé crossed over Viktor Gyökeres before firing his shot past Sweden goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström.

The 27-year-old Mbappé ran immediately to coach Didier Deschamps after scoring. This was Deschamps’ first game back on the sideline after missing the group stage finale to fly back to Europe for his mother’s funeral.

Mbappé scored his second goal of the match — and sixth goal of the tournament — in the 74th minute to give France a commanding 3-0 lead. Michael Olise played a ball into the box for a darting Mbappé, who finished it calmly with his right foot.

Mbappé’s sixth goal of this year’s tournament tied him with Argentina forward Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. Both players have now played four matches.

France will now play Paraguay in the round of 16 on July 4 at Philadelphia Stadium. Paraguay upset Germany on Monday to knock them out of the tournament.

France vs Sweden Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

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 The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage delivered fireworks and drama that set up knockout stage chaos. The superstars have shown up and put everything on the line for their nation.

Now is the perfect time to check in on the tournament’s biggest futures markets on FanDuel. As champion odds, the Golden Boot and other awards continue to shift after every knockout result, FanDuel has everything covered.

So far, France has looked undeniable and on a collision course to the final. Argentina hasn’t slowed down much either, led by their star, Lionel Messi, who continues to light up the tournament.

Will Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland or Lionel Messi run away with the Golden Boot or will someone join them and even overtake them?

With each round of 32 match shifting the odds, bettors can lock in their odds now and watch the drama of the World Cup unfold. FanDuel has updated World Cup futures throughout the knockout stage.

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Golden Boot Winner

• Kylian Mbappé (France): -110
• Lionel Messi (Argentina): +145
• Harry Kane (England): +1800
• Ousmane Dembélé (France): +1800
• Erling Haaland (Norway): +2700
• Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain): +3000
• Vinícius Júnior (Brazil): +3000
• Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): +6000
• Jonathan David (Canada): +7000
• Lamine Yamal (Spain): +7000

World Cup Winner

• France: +190
• Argentina: +440
• Spain: +650
• England: +750
• Brazil: +1100
• Portugal: +1500
• Norway: +2200
• USA +3500
• Mexico: +4000

Who Will Reach Quarter Finals?

• France: -1000
• Argentina: -400
• Morocco: -260
• England: -190
• Brazil: -175
• Spain: -145
• Colombia: -105
• USA: +105
• Norway: +115
• Portugal: +175

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John Mozeliak has a lengthy to-do list as interim general manager for the Los Angeles Angels, but the hiring of a new manager to replace Kurt Suzuki is not among his priorities.

“I met with Kurt and most of (the coaches) this morning, and I told them they’re all fine for this year,” Mozeliak, the former St. Louis Cardinals’ baseball operations head, said at a news conference before Saturday night’s game against the Athletics.

“There’s nothing they have to worry about. … They all have jobs moving forward. There’s no reason for massive change right away.”

As for the rest of his agenda, which includes transforming a club that has suffered 10 straight losing seasons and entered Saturday with an American League-worst 34-39 record into a winner, Mozeliak plans to dive right in.

“There’s a short view and a long view, and the short view is going to be coming through the draft, addressing the trade deadline, finding another new general manager,” Mozeliak said. “And then, ultimately, hopefully, we lead to that foundation and structure that provides perpetual winning for the Angels.”

Mozeliak, who replaced the fired Perry Minasian on Friday, said he will have a limited role in a July 11-12 draft in which the Angels have the 12th overall pick, leaving the selections to scouting director Tim McIlvaine.

“My philosophy on the draft is, let the scouting director and his team do their jobs,” Mozeliak said. “Even when I sat in the GM seat for 18 years, I never scouted amateur players. I felt that was their responsibility. So they’re going to have a lot of autonomy to do it.

“The only real input I’m gonna have is understanding their process … and if there are some financial decisions that are being baked into who we pick and why.”

Mozeliak said he has not received any direction from owner Arte Moreno or team president Molly Jolly on whether the Angels should embark on a rebuilding process by trading valuable pieces such as pitchers Reid Detmers and Jose Soriano and outfielder Jo Adell.

USA Today reported last week that Moreno prefers to retain those players.

“In time, I think we will come up with a trade-deadline strategy that we are all comfortable with, from ownership to Molly,” Mozeliak said. “And my job will be to help execute it.”

Mozeliak said he has already formed a list of GM candidates and will begin seeking permission from teams to interview them after the Aug. 3 trade deadline.

He hopes to have a new GM in place well before his contract expires in December, though he didn’t completely rule out the possibility of remaining with the Angels longer.

“When my contract ends, depending on who ends up getting hired, what the team looks like, there could be a position or a role that makes sense for me to stay around. … But on a personal level, I’m just not ready to give away my life again for, you know, 80 hours a week, 100 hours a week, to just do baseball,” he said.

Mozeliak spent 30 years with the Cardinals, including his final 18 seasons leading baseball operations. Under his guidance, St. Louis reached the postseason 10 times, won six National League Central Division titles, captured two NL pennants and won the 2011 World Series.

He joined the Cardinals in 1996 as an assistant in the scouting department and quickly rose through the organization, serving as an assistant scouting director, scouting director, director of baseball operations, assistant GM, GM and president of baseball operations.

He helped build one of baseball’s better farm systems, producing several franchise cornerstones and future Hall of Famers, including three-time National League most valuable player Albert Pujols; 10-time All-Star Yadier Molina; and three-time All-Star Adam Wainwright.

Minasian’s firing, announced before Friday night’s 9-3 loss to the Athletics, ended his 5 1/2-year run as GM, which included the departure of Shohei Ohtani after 2023, the firing of three managers — Joe Maddon, Phil Nevin and Ron Washington — and a number of failed free-agent signings, including David Fletcher (five years, $26 million) and Robert Stephenson (three years, $33-million).

Minasian, 46, was unable to stem a streak of losing seasons or drastically improve a farm system that is considered to be among the majors’ worst.

The Angels went 392-500 under Minasian, the 13th GM in franchise history. They never finished with more than 77 wins or finished higher than third place in the AL West. They lost a franchise-record 99 games in 2024.

Moreno, who has often meddled in baseball decisions and been reluctant to spend aggressively for free agents in recent years, is notoriously difficult to work for. He raised the ire of Angels fans this spring when he claimed that, according to surveys, affordability was more of a priority for fans than winning.

Sections of Angel Stadium have been filled in recent weeks with shirtless fans imploring Moreno to sell the team.

“I know what’s happening. I see it.
I hear it,” Jolly said. “Fans have a right to have their voices be heard. It didn’t influence the decision that I wanted to make, but we all want to win. Our owner wants to win. I do. The fans deserve that, and that’s what we’re going to work toward. “

Mozeliak said he is looking forward to building a relationship with the mercurial owner.

“My job is to have a healthy relationship with him, and I think the short term focus for me is just, what does that communication line look like, and making sure he understands what our direction is,” Mozeliak said.

“I haven’t met Mr. Moreno (since taking the Angels job) but I can tell you this — he does care. He does want to win … I wouldn’t be sitting here if I didn’t think he truly loved this team and cared about this city and wanted this to work.”

Reporting by the Associated Press.

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After going down a goal early, DR Congo rallied past Uzbekistan and booked its spot into the Round of 32 at the World Cup — it’s first knockout round appearance in team history.  

Yoane Wissa scored two goals to seal the victory and third place in Group K behind Colombia and Portugal, allowing the Leopards to be one of the eight third-place teams to advance to the elimination rounds. 

Here are takeaways from the game:

1. DR Congo Keeps Making History

DR Congo wasn’t a debut World Cup team — its first appearance was in 1974 when the country was known as Zaire — but this result was longtime in the making for the central African nation. 

DR Congo’s road to the 2026 World Cup included taking down African heavyweights Cameroon and Nigeria during qualifying and then defeating Jamaica in the intercontinental playoffs in March – all games that toughened this team in win-or-go-home scenarios.

At this World Cup, DR Congo showed early on it would be a tough opponent. A tough 1-1 draw to Portugal and a tight 1-0 loss to Colombia provided the Leopards with a path to the knockout stage. A talented squad – led by Wissa, who scored three of the team’s four goals at the tournament – did not get rattled by its early miscue against Uzbekistan. 

The win also sees countries from Africa continue to make history at this World Cup. In all, eight countries from the continent will play in the knockout stage, the most ever.

2. Leopards’ Lineup Changes Paid Off

After drawing with Portugal in its opener and losing against Colombia, DR Congo knew only a win would be good enough to reach the Round of 32.

That prompted DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre to adjust the defensive formation he used in the first two games and opt for a more aggressive approach with more attackers on the field. The Leopards conceded an early goal, but then relied on its more talented forwards to eventually break down Uzbekistan’s defense in the second half. 

Wissa, who had several big chances throughout the game, earned a penalty to equalize the game in the 68th minute. Fiston Mayele then sealed the win with a go-ahead goal in the 78th minute after he surged past the Uzbek defense for the finish. Wissa then added a third in stoppage time to put the game on ice. 

3. Despite Loss, Uzbekistan Set The Tone Early 

Uzbekistan entered this game knowing the chance of reaching the knockout stage was pretty much nonexistent — it needed to beat DR Congo by six goals to get third place in the group. 

Team captain Eldor Shomurdov slightly fanned those flames of hope with a sensational early goal, latching onto a lovely flick from Abbosbek Fayzullaev to then chip a shot over DR Congo keeper Lionel Mpasi. 

For Shomurodov, his 45th for the national team, it’s a deserved goal. It also demonstrated why he was the joint leading scorer in the Turkish Süper Lig with club Başakşehir. 

Despite losing all three games at the World Cup, Uzbekistan can hang its hat on having at least some memorable moments during its first trip to the tournament. 

4. Khusanov Showed Some Growing Pains

(Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images) –>

Had Uzbekistan actually advanced to the Round of 32, it would have been without its star defender, Abdukodir Khusanov, after the Manchester City center back was booked on yet another yellow card for a hard challenge. 

Khusanov wiped out Wissa late in the first half after finding himself out of position, earning a well-justified booking that sent the Newcastle United forward tumbling onto the pitch. It didn’t 

The play was fairly similar to his foul on Luis Diaz in the loss to Colombia in the group-stage opener, in which Khusanov chased down the Bayern Munich star but couldn’t stop his momentum and tumbled out of bounds.

Khusanov knew that coming into this tournament he was going to have to play with more urgency considering the attacking talent Uzbekistan was facing at this World Cup. It will be a learning moment for Khusanov as he develops into a more complete defender for both club and country. 

DR Congo vs Uzbekistan Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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It was a group stage to remember for the United States men’s national team.

For the first time since 2010, the U.S. won its group at the men’s FIFA World Cup, and it won multiple matches at the tournament for the first time since 2002. There is still plenty of work to be done, as the U.S. looks for its first win in the knockout stage in 24 years. But this is a moment in American soccer history worth reflecting on.

Here are the best moments and players from the United States’ group stage, plus a look-ahead to what’s next for the Stars and Stripes:

OUR 7 FAVORITE USA WORLD CUP MOMENTS SO FAR

1. Folarin Balogun’s Top-Corner Golazo

McIntyre: Balogun had already created the Americans’ first goal of the World Cup, an own goal that deflected in of a Paraguayan defender. He’d already scored one of his own to make it 2-0 for the home team. 

But it wasn’t until deep into first-half stoppage that “Balo” both sealed the USA’s win and Man of the Match honors for himself. He did it with aplomb, dancing around a would-be tackle and picking out the top left corner of the visitors’ goal to give the Stars and Stripes an insurmountable 3-0 lead. It also served as a statement to the other 47 teams in the tournament: the U.S. means business. 

2. Freeman’s Breakout Header

(Photo by MB Media/Getty Images) –>

McIntyre: The U.S. was leading the Socceroos, thanks to a second own goal in as many games when Freeman, the 21-year-old son of Super Bowl winner and Green Bay Packers legend Antonio, pounced on an airborne ball and nodded in past the outstretched Aussie keeper into the net. Initially, the goal was ruled offside. But the longer the VAR check took, the more the anticipation grew among the home fans in Seattle.

By the time the ref took to the mic to explain his decision, it was apparent what it would be. The goal stood, the stadium shuddered, and Freeman took off on a 70-yard sprint, with all 25 of his teammates following. At that point, it was also clear that the U.S. was about to win back-to-back World Cup games for the first time in 96 years.

Litman: Goal celebrations have been special for this team. The squad chasing and then enveloping Alex Freeman after his header against Australia, then the team jumping and shouting after Auston Trusty scored against Türkiye, shows how tight-knit the group is. The players genuinely want to celebrate each other’s success.

3. ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’

McIntyre: The almost 70,000 in attendance didn’t need much coaxing. The atmosphere had been electric all game; it had morphed into a full-on street party by the time the final whistle echoed. Then the sweet sounds of John Denver’s iconic ballad came echoing though the PA, and neither the U.S. players nor fans missed a beat. Suddenly, it felt like all of Seattle was singing along spontaneously. The magical moment has since become a touchstone, and the classic tune is the soundtrack to this World Cup for the co-hosts.

Litman: I also have to go with the team walking around the field together after a 2-0 win over Australia singing the John Denver classic along with thousands of U.S. fans at Seattle Stadium. It was an incredibly special moment for the team and a passionate fan base longing to rally behind a winner.

4. Scoring Early

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Litman: The U.S. has scored goals within the first 11 minutes of all three games thus far. Granted, the opening goal in each of the first two games were own goals, but they were forced by the Americans’ pressure. Continuing that pace will be key to setting the tone in the knockout stages. 

5. Pochettino’s Projects Pay Off

(Photo by Andrew J. Clark/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

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Sciaretta: Pochettino was hired on a short-term basis for the USMNT with a job scheduled to run for less than two years. Despite the nature of his hire, he was able to identify players who were way outside the player pool he inherited and who he believed could fit well into his plans. 

Sebastian Berhalter, Alex Freeman and Matt Freese are three who played in the group stage of this World Cup and who have only played for the USMNT under Pochettino. What has been the result of these three players? Two goals, two assists and a clean sheet. It’s not just Pochettino’s team culture or tactics which have paid off. It has also been his player identification.

6. Ream Defying Age

(Photo by Al Sermeno/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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Sciaretta: Let’s face it. Until June, Ream hadn’t had a good 2026 for Charlotte or the U.S. national team. Many, including myself, believed he had lost his battle with Father Time at the worst possible moment. But in the first two games, he was very good. Ream is one of those rare examples of players who don’t truly peak until well after the age of 30. Whether he can hang on another few weeks is another question.

7. McKennie Shows Up

 (Photo by Jane Gershovich/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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Sciaretta: Weston McKennie is very much a bellwether for the U.S. national team. When he plays well, the team plays well. When he does not, the team typically struggles. In 2024 and the first half of 2025, McKennie had a very tough run, which coincided with the team getting grouped at the 2024 Copa América and falling to fourth at the 2025 Nations League finals with losses to Panama and Canada. At this World Cup, McKennie has been excellent, and his form has been a significant reason why the team won its World Cup group.

5 STANDOUT GROUP STAGE PLAYERS

McIntyre: Named Man of the Match in his first two career World Cup games, Balogun was also leading the competition’s Golden Boot race five games into the event. He’s since been overtaken by some of soccer’s biggest names, and he sat out the Americans’ final group match to avoid yellow card jeopardy. But if how he performed in the first round is any indicator, he’ll spearhead the USA’s attack in the knockout stage.

Sciaretta: There was a debate about whether Balogun or Ricardo Pepi should be the starting striker as both players were coming off strong seasons. But Balogun clearly looks like the right choice.

McIntyre: Uncapped just over a year ago, Freeman is emerging as a legitimate star in real time at this World Cup. His coach went even further, saying that the right-sided defender has the potential to become one of the best at his position in the global game. 

Litman: The youngest player on the roster, but one of the most impressive. Freeman, 21, has had a wild 16 months from earning his first-ever MLS start in March 2025 to his national team debut three months later to scoring a goal in the World Cup last week. It’s been a whirlwind, but he’s been taking it all in stride. Freeman’s teammates love him — that was evident in the way they celebrated his goal vs. Australia — and he’ll play a major role for this program for years to come.

Sciaretta: The versatile defender has been very good at passing out of the back and getting many of the team’s possessions into dangerous positions. But tactically, he is so important to how the team plays. He can shift from a central defender in a three-man backline to a right back who can get forward. He gives the team a lot of options.

McIntyre: The all-action midfielder led the entire USA roster in playing time during the group stage, logging all but the final six minutes of Thursday’s 3-2 loss to Türkiye. It’s probably not a coincidence that the visitors’ winning goal came after McKennie, who wore the captain’s armband in that match, had been subbed out.

Sciaretta: He has immense quality and is often a bit of a wild card for the U.S. team. But he has been a big ingredient to the team playing well.

Litman: What a story. He was part of the friends and family unit at the last World Cup while his dad coached the team. Now, he’s part of his first World Cup roster, and not only that, but he also started against Türkiye, hitting the trifecta with an assist, a goal and a yellow card. Mauricio Pochettino clearly rates him, as he’s played in every game so far.

Fullback/Winger

USA

Litman: The most creative player the U.S. team has. Watching Dest play is mesmerizing, like there’s a magnet connecting his foot to the ball. He played right back at the last World Cup, but his move higher up to winger has been significant. He’s a skilled dribbler, takes defenders one-on-one, combines in tight spaces and creates chances. He also has a powerful shot and has come close to scoring a few times.

3 BURNING QUESTIONS

1. Bosnia And Herzegovina Await Which USA Version?

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

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Sciaretta: The U.S.has only won one World Cup knockout in its history, and that was 24 years ago in the middle of the night against Mexico, a CONCACAF team it had beaten many times before. Winning a knockout on home soil against a European team in front of a massive television audience would be groundbreaking and an important chapter in team history. 

Litman: Which U.S. team will we see? The one that galvanized a fan base in the first two matches, or the one that lacked cohesion against Türkiye? Granted, Mauricio Pochettino will roll with his first team lineup and the squad will be excited to play in the knockout stage, no doubt. But the group’s mentality and response after the loss will be something to watch.

McIntyre: Can Mauricio Pochettino finally beat a European opponent? He’s faced six since becoming U.S. coach in 2024 — and lost every single time.

2. When Will Christian Pulisic Explode?

(Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)

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Doug: The USA’s best player has looked as sharp as ever in limited minutes, including helping set up two goals in one half of action against Paraguay. He hasn’t scored himself yet, though — I expect that will change vs. the Bosnians.

Litman: He obviously ended his scoring drought in the pre-tournament tune-up vs. Senegal and played a role in the Americans’ first two goals vs. Paraguay. But he’s missed time with that calf injury and hasn’t scored one of his own yet. We talk so much about how this home World Cup will shape his legacy. Now that he’s back in the fold, scoring goals and being the star of the team is a major part of that.

3. Will Freese Have His Big Moment?

(Photo by Al Sermeno/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)

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Sciaretta: Freese made no saves against Paraguay. He made two against Australia, and they were of moderate quality. If the U.S. team is going to make a run, he is going to have to make some big saves. He hasn’t had the opportunity yet, but it is coming — possibly against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Source

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The Polymarket promo code FOX gets new users a $50 trading bonus on a $20 deposit, available now on the world’s largest prediction market platform.

Polymarket has processed over $10 billion in total trading volume and is now fully available to U.S. users on iOS, with Android availability continuing to expand, regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and legal in 49 states plus Washington, D.C.

Another full day of round of 32 action takes over the World Cup. Norway and Erling Haaland battle Ivory Coast, France faces Sweden behind Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, and Mexico looks to continue its impressive run against Ecuador.

Download the app, enter code FOX at sign-up, and deposit $20 to claim your $50 trading bonus.

Polymarket Promo Code FOX: Deposit $20, Get $50 Trading Bonus

Promo Code	FOX
Offer	Deposit $20, Get $50 Trading Bonus
Offer Type	Trading bonus credited after qualifying deposit
Minimum Deposit	$20
Bonus Amount	$50 trading bonus
Expiry	No expiry on code; bonus credited automatically
Eligible States	All U.S. states and D.C. except AZ, IL, MA, MD, MI, MT, NJ, NV, OH
Age Requirement	18 and older

Enter promo code FOX during account registration in the Polymarket mobile app to qualify for the deposit $20, get $50 trading bonus. The code must be entered before completing sign-up and cannot be applied to an existing account.

Once your account is created and the code is entered, deposit a minimum of $20 and the $50 trading bonus will be credited automatically. Claim your $50 trading bonus with code FOX and start trading on thousands of sports and event markets right away.

How to Claim the Polymarket Promo Code FOX

1. Click here to download the Polymarket app on iOS or Android.
2. Create a new Polymarket account using your email address.
3. Enter promo code FOX in the promo code or invite code field during registration.
4. Complete identity verification as prompted inside the app.
5. Deposit a minimum of $20 to your Polymarket account.
6. Your $50 trading bonus will be credited to your account automatically after the qualifying deposit.

Polymarket Promo Code FOX Terms and Conditions

• Promo code: Enter FOX during sign-up. The code cannot be applied retroactively to an existing account.
• New Polymarket users only. Current account holders are not eligible.
• Minimum deposit of $20 required to receive the $50 trading bonus.
• Must be physically located in an eligible U.S. state at the time of registration.
• Not available in AZ, IL, MA, MD, MI, MT, NJ, NV, OH.
• Trading bonus is credited automatically after the qualifying deposit. No additional steps required.
• Polymarket reserves the right to modify or discontinue promotions at any time.
• DISCLAIMER: 18+ Only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Not available in all jurisdictions. Trading involves high risk and may result in loss of your entire investment. 
• See polymarket.us/tos for more information. The Polymarket US App serves as an independent software provider and affiliate of Polymarket US and Polymarket Clearing, the CFTC-regulated derivatives exchange and clearing organization.

What Is Polymarket?

Polymarket is the world’s largest prediction market platform. Users buy and sell shares in the outcomes of real-world events, from NFL games to presidential elections to interest rate decisions.

There is no house. No vig. Prices are set entirely by other traders in the market.

Every market is a yes or no question. A yes share trading at $0.60 means the market gives that outcome a 60 percent chance. If you are right, the share pays out $1.00. If you are wrong, it pays $0. Buy at $0.60, win, and you net $0.40 in profit.

Polymarket processed over $2.6 billion in trading volume during the 2024 U.S. presidential election. It is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, the same federal body that oversees the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

How Polymarket Trading Works

Pick a market. Choose yes or no. Buy shares.

The price you pay reflects the market’s current probability. Pay $0.35 for a yes share and the market thinks that outcome has a 35 percent chance of happening. As more traders agree with you and buy in, the price rises.

You do not have to wait for the event to resolve. Sell your shares any time before the market closes. Buy yes at $0.35, price moves to $0.70, sell and pocket the difference. It works like a stock, except the position settles at $1.00 or $0.

Deposits go in through credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. No crypto wallet needed. Balances are held in USDC, a stablecoin pegged to the dollar, and convert automatically when you deposit.

Polymarket vs. Traditional Sportsbooks

If you have used FanDuel, DraftKings, or any regulated sportsbook, the core difference with Polymarket comes down to one thing: there is no house. Sportsbooks build a margin into every line, typically between 5 and 8 percent. Every trade on Polymarket is peer-to-peer. The platform takes nothing on binary market positions.

The other big difference is scope. Sportsbooks cover sports. Polymarket covers sports, politics, finance, pop culture, climate, technology, and anything else the community creates a market for. During the 2024 election cycle, Polymarket prediction markets on the presidential race were more widely cited in mainstream news than most polling aggregators.

Here is how the two compare on the basics:

	Polymarket	Sportsbook
House edge	None on binary markets	5 to 8 percent margin built in
Pricing	Set by traders	Set by the bookmaker
Market scope	Sports, politics, finance, and more	Sports only
Minimum age	18 and older	21 and older in most states
Exit before resolution	Yes, sell shares any time	Cash out available on some platforms
Regulator	CFTC (federal)	State gaming commissions

Polymarket Sports Prediction Markets

Polymarket offers one of the deepest sports prediction market libraries available to U.S. users, covering over 13 sports with thousands of live and upcoming markets. For fans who follow FOX Sports programming, the platform is a natural way to put sports knowledge to work in a format that goes beyond a standard game line.

NFL Prediction Markets

NFL markets on Polymarket span the full season calendar, from Super Bowl and division winner futures to week-by-week game outcome markets and player-focused questions. Off-season markets covering draft position, free agency outcomes, and contract situations keep the NFL category active year-round.

NBA Prediction Markets

NBA prediction markets include game outcomes, conference and championship futures, MVP and award markets, and end-of-season statistical leaders. During the NBA playoffs, Polymarket generates some of its highest trading volumes in sports, with series outcome and game-level markets updated in real time as games progress.

MLB Prediction Markets

Baseball markets cover division races, World Series futures, individual awards including MVP, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year, and game outcome markets throughout the 162-game regular season and postseason. Season-long statistical markets on home run leaders and batting title races are also available.

NHL Prediction Markets

NHL markets include Stanley Cup and conference futures, division leader markets, individual award questions, and playoff series outcome markets. Coverage intensifies during the Stanley Cup Playoffs with daily game-level markets across all series.

College Sports, UFC, and More

Beyond the major professional leagues, Polymarket also covers college football and college basketball, UFC and boxing, soccer, and golf. Markets on pop culture, politics, finance, climate, and technology are available for users who want to trade on events outside of sports.

Polymarket Trading Strategies

Prediction markets reward the same skills as sports analysis: reading information before the market adjusts, staying disciplined, and not overcommitting to a single position. These principles apply whether you are trading on an NFL game or a political outcome.

Follow breaking news

Prices on Polymarket move on information. If you see a story that the market has not priced in yet, that is your edge. Trade before the price catches up.

Look for overreactions

Sharp swings in price often overshoot. A team losing their starting quarterback may send yes shares on “win the game” to $0.10 when $0.25 is more realistic. Emotional trading creates opportunity on both sides.

You do not have to hold to resolution

One of the biggest differences from a traditional sportsbook: you can sell at any time. If your position is up 30 percent and the event is still a week out, locking in that gain is a valid strategy. Holding to resolution introduces more risk.

Diversify across markets

Concentrating everything in one outcome amplifies both upside and downside. Spreading positions across multiple markets in different categories reduces the impact of a single wrong call.

Watch liquidity before entering

Thin markets can have wide spreads between buy and sell prices. Check trading volume before entering a position. High-volume markets on the NFL or NBA will have tighter spreads and easier exits than niche markets with low activity.

Polymarket App Review

The Polymarket app is available on iOS and Android and covers everything you need to trade: live markets, your full portfolio, deposits, and withdrawals. Here is what stands out:

• iOS rating: 4.7 stars from more than 30,000 App Store reviews
• Android: available on Google Play, with a broader rollout continuing through 2026
• Biometric login: Face ID and fingerprint support on compatible devices
• Real-time charts: every market has a live price chart showing how odds have moved
• Push notifications: alerts for price changes, market resolutions, and position updates
• No trading fees: Polymarket does not charge fees on binary market positions
• Deposits: credit card, debit card, or bank transfer via Moonpay inside the app
• Customer support: in-app help center, plus active support on Discord and X (formerly Twitter)

For a full rundown of regulated sportsbook apps available in your state, see the best betting apps guide at FOX Sports.

Polymarket vs. Kalshi

Polymarket and Kalshi are the two largest CFTC-regulated prediction market platforms in the U.S. The core mechanic is the same on both: you buy yes or no shares, correct outcomes pay $1.00, incorrect pay $0. Where they differ is in focus.

	Polymarket	Kalshi
Regulator	CFTC	CFTC
Sports markets	13 plus sports, deepest coverage	Growing sports offering
Finance and politics	Strong coverage	Original strength
Trading fees	None on binary markets	None on binary markets
Availability	49 states plus D.C.	Most U.S. states
Minimum age	18 and older	18 and older
Welcome offer	Deposit $20, get $50 bonus (code FOX)	Trade $10, get $10 bonus (code FOXSPORTS)

Both platforms are worth using if you trade across different categories. For details on Kalshi’s current welcome offer, see the Kalshi promo code page at FOX Sports.

Polymarket Payment Methods

Polymarket uses Moonpay to handle deposits and withdrawals inside the app. No external crypto wallet or exchange is required. All account balances are held in USDC, a stablecoin pegged one-to-one with the U.S. dollar, and the conversion from dollars happens automatically when you deposit.

Deposit options

• Credit card (Visa, Mastercard)
• Debit card (Visa, Mastercard)
• Bank transfer (ACH)
• Minimum deposit to claim the $50 bonus with code FOX: $20

Withdrawal options

• Back to your original payment method (card or bank)
• To a crypto wallet as USDC
• Processing times vary by method; card withdrawals typically process within 1 to 3 business days

Does Polymarket Have a Referral Program?

The promo code FOX is a welcome offer for new users, not a referral program. Once your account is active, Polymarket has a separate referral system for existing users who want to earn ongoing rewards for bringing others to the platform.

The Polymarket referral program works through a unique referral link tied to your account, not a shareable code. When someone signs up through your link and trades on the platform, you earn 30 percent of the trading fees they generate for their first 180 days. To qualify, your account needs to reach a lifetime trading volume of $10,000.

This is distinct from the sign-up bonus. New users should enter promo code FOX at registration to claim the $50 trading bonus. The referral revenue share program is for established users looking to earn ongoing rewards after hitting the volume threshold.

Is Polymarket Legal?

Polymarket is legal and regulated in the United States under the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The platform operates as a CFTC-designated contract market, the same regulatory classification as major financial derivatives exchanges. Prediction markets are legally distinct from sports betting and operate under federal commodity law rather than state gaming regulation.

Polymarket is available to U.S. users aged 18 and older in 49 states and Washington, D.C. Nevada is the only state where the platform is currently unavailable. The $50 trading bonus with promo code FOX has additional restrictions and is not available in AZ, IL, MA, MD, MI, MT, NJ, NV, or OH. Users located in those states can still access and trade on the platform in most cases, but the deposit bonus does not apply.

Where Is Polymarket Legal?

Polymarket is available in the following states. Nevada is the only state where it is not currently offered.

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona (platform available; bonus not available)
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois (platform available; bonus not available)
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland (platform available; bonus not available)
• Massachusetts (platform available; bonus not available)
• Michigan (platform available; bonus not available)
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana (platform available; bonus not available)
• Nebraska
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey (platform available; bonus not available)
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio (platform available; bonus not available)
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• Washington D.C.
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

For regulated sportsbook options available in your state, visit the sportsbook promos page at FOX Sports for current welcome offers from FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and other legal operators.

Responsible Gambling

Trading on prediction markets should always be approached as entertainment. If it stops feeling that way, free, confidential support is available around the clock from these organizations:

Polymarket Promo Code FAQs

What is the Polymarket promo code?

The current Polymarket promo code is FOX. Enter it at sign-up in the promo code field to receive a $50 trading bonus after depositing $20 or more. The bonus is available to new users in eligible states and is credited automatically after the qualifying deposit.

What is the Polymarket invite code?

The Polymarket invite code FOX works the same as the promo code. Polymarket uses the terms promo code, invite code, and referral code interchangeably for the sign-up bonus code. Entering FOX during registration gives you the deposit $20, get $50 trading bonus in eligible states.

What is the Polymarket referral code?

The Polymarket referral code FOX is the code for FOX Sports users claiming the new user trading bonus. It functions identically to the promo code and invite code. Enter FOX at the point of sign-up before completing account creation to qualify for the $50 bonus on a $20 deposit.

Is Polymarket the same as a sportsbook?

No. Polymarket is a prediction market, not a sportsbook. Rather than placing a bet against a house with margin built into the line, you buy and sell shares in event outcomes directly with other users. Prices are set entirely by supply and demand among traders, and Polymarket does not take a position on any outcome. The platform is regulated by the CFTC under federal commodity law, not a state gaming commission.

Where is Polymarket available?

Polymarket is available to U.S. users aged 18 and older in 49 states and Washington, D.C. Nevada is currently the only state where the platform is not available. The $50 trading bonus with code FOX is additionally unavailable in AZ, IL, MA, MD, MI, MT, NJ, NV, and OH.

How do I deposit money on Polymarket?

You can fund a Polymarket account with a credit card, debit card, or bank transfer through the Moonpay integration built into the app. No cryptocurrency wallet is required. Account balances are held in USDC, a U.S. dollar-pegged stablecoin, and the conversion from dollars to USDC happens automatically at deposit.

Can I enter the Polymarket promo code after creating my account?

No. The promo code FOX must be entered during the registration process and cannot be applied to an existing account retroactively. Make sure to enter the code before completing sign-up to unlock the $50 trading bonus on a $20 deposit.

Source

Portugal came to Miami as many people’s pick to win the whole thing and left with a point, second place, and very little to brag about. Colombia outshot them 26 to 13 and hit everything but the net.

Diogo Costa saved the day; the rest of Portugal mostly watched. A draw is a draw. This one came with a thank-you note to the keeper and an uncomfortable question: is this team actually a contender?

Here are my takeaways from Portugal’s 0-0 draw with Colombia:

1. Portugal Were Billed As Contenders. Miami Said: Prove It.

(Photo by Hugo Rivera/Jam Media/Getty Images)

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A lot of smart people had Portugal among the favorites to win this whole thing. On tonight’s evidence, those people might want a refund. Colombia ran the game from the first whistle: 26 shots, a ball hacked off the line, Diogo Costa standing on his head. Portugal managed two shots on target all game.

The convenient excuse is the South Florida heat, and yes, it was a sauna in Miami. But here’s the flaw in that alibi: Colombia played in the same swamp and looked twice as sharp. Roberto Martinez slowed the tempo to a crawl to control the game and instead invited a siege.

Unbeaten in the group? Sure. Convincing? Only against Uzbekistan. If this is a contender, it’s hiding it well. The heat didn’t park the bus. Portugal did.

2. The Ronaldo Watch: ‘I’m Back’ Just Met a Real Defense.

(Photo by Evrim Aydin/Anadolu via Getty Images)

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The Cristiano Ronaldo arc this tournament has been a full-on soap opera. Game one against Congo DR: invisible. Scoreless, three shots, none on target, a chorus calling for the bench. Game two against Uzbekistan: a first-half brace, each met with an emphatic “SIUUU”. CR7 became the first man ever to score at six World Cups, and a roar of “I’m back!” straight down the camera. Game three against Colombia: anonymous again, this time against an actual defense.

In his 40s now, it’s only normal that Ronaldo, an all-timer, will struggle against better defensive units. And here’s what isn’t changing: Martinez will not rotate him. He made that clear after the opener, and at 41, Ronaldo starts every knockout game until further notice.

That’s the bet Portugal has placed. The knockouts don’t serve up Uzbekistan. They serve up the kind of defenders he just spent 90 minutes failing to beat.

3. Colombia Is A Real Dark Horse

(Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

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Forget Portugal for a moment. Colombia were the best team on the field tonight, and it wasn’t close. Néstor Lorenzo’s side topped Group K unbeaten and dismantled a so-called favorite. James Rodríguez, 34 and at his third World Cup, ran the whole thing from midfield like someone who’s been here before, because he has. Luis Díaz buzzed down the left. Davinson Sánchez even had a stoppage-time winner flagged offside.

Colombia created enough to win three games. And that’s exactly the problem: 26 shots, zero goals. A team that dominates this thoroughly and still can’t score carries one terrifying flaw in knockout football, where you get one good look and have to bury it.

Colombia looks like genuine quarterfinal material. They also look like a side that could dominate its way out of the tournament. Finishing is the gap. They’d better close it.

4. The Permutations: Portugal Gets Croatia, Colombia Gets a Gift, Congo Makes History.

(Photo by Hannah Peters – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

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Let’s sort the Group K math. Colombia wins the group and draws a third-placed team in the Round of 32, a soft landing of sorts. Portugal, by slipping to second, gets Croatia and Luka Modrić on July 2. That’s a real one; Croatia doesn’t beat themselves.

And then the story of the night: Congo DR beat Uzbekistan 3-1 and are through as one of the eight best third-placed teams, locked in regardless of results elsewhere. This is enormous. It’s their first World Cup knockout berth ever, and their first World Cup since 1974, back when they were Zaire. The Leopards grabbed a point off Portugal, pushed Colombia to the brink, and now face England in the round of 32. Fairy tales rarely wear this badge. This one does.

Colombia vs Portugal Extended Highlights | 2026 FIFA World Cup™

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