Belgium End USA's Home Dream as Spain and Argentina Advance

The co-hosts are out. Belgium dismantled the United States 4-1 in Seattle to end America's World Cup on home soil, a result that was heavier than many had anticipated. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, with Romelu Lukaku and Hans Vanaken also on the scoresheet, and though Malik Tillman pulled one back briefly to make it 1-1, the USA's defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed. The night also brought the definitive close of Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career, after Spain edged Portugal 1-0 in a tight Iberian derby — Rodri named the standout player, though he was quick to note Spain have more in the tank.

Elsewhere, Argentina survived a genuine scare, coming from behind to beat Egypt 3-2 in the round of 16, keeping their title defence alive. Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan did not take the defeat quietly, accusing FIFA of wanting Messi to stay in the tournament — a serious allegation that will linger. Switzerland, meanwhile, quietly made history, beating Colombia 4-3 on penalties in Vancouver to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954.

Off the pitch, Deloitte's annual review revealed Premier League clubs' combined pre-tax losses surged to £948m last season, up from £135m the year before — a striking figure that underscored the financial pressure building beneath the game's surface.