As 16 teams face off for the ultimate prize in pro sports, these players will have the biggest impact.
The IOC provisionally lifted its suspension of Russia, allowing Russian athletes a path to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The decision, citing Russia's distancing from occupied Ukrainian territories, faces criticism from Ukraine and concerns over past doping scandals.
Argentina, trailing 2-0 late against Egypt, scored three goals in 13 minutes to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory in Atlanta, advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals.
The USMNT's World Cup journey concluded with a loss to Belgium, overshadowed by controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun's red card. President Trump's intervention with FIFA is questioned as a potential precedent for future events.
Folarin Balogun played a forgettable role in the US's 4-1 World Cup loss to Belgium after a FIFA controversy regarding his red card suspension. Despite President Trump's intervention, Balogun failed to score, and the US was eliminated.
The U.S. men's national team's World Cup run ended in the Round of 16 with a 4-1 loss to Belgium in Seattle. Despite a strong lineup and homefield advantage, the Americans were outclassed by the Belgians, marking a familiar exit from the tournament.
Folarin Balogun's red card suspension was lifted by FIFA, allowing him to start for the US against Belgium in the World Cup round of 16. The decision, reportedly influenced by a call from U.S. President Trump to FIFA president Infantino, has drawn strong criticism from UEFA.
