It's do or die time in the World Cup 2026, and it seems some teams are feeling the heat already! England have just scraped through to the last-16 by the skin of their teeth, but they'll be breathing a collective sigh of relief after a crucial Harry Kane performance against DR Congo. The Three Lions' title credentials have been questioned all tournament long, with head coach Thomas Tuchel's tactics and squad picks coming under fire from pundits – will he make the right calls to go all the way?
Belgium, on the other hand, have shown what it means to be a World Cup warrior! Trailing two-nil against Senegal, they conjured up an astonishing comeback in extra time, courtesy of Youri Tielemans' penalty at 124 minutes and 44 seconds. It's a victory that showcases their unbreakable spirit – but the Senegalese were left seething over some suspect refereeing decisions.
And what a shocker in the group stages! Germany, the team that's failed to get beyond this point for three World Cups running now, have been sent packing once again. It's a disaster that has left fans and pundits alike stunned, with legendary columnist Philipp Lahm laying the blame squarely at the feet of Julian Nagelsmann's inconsistent approach.
Controversy's never far away in the World Cup, and Folarin Balogun found himself on the wrong end of it against Bosnia and Herzegovina. A red card for a harmless tangle with Tarik Muharemovic has sparked outrage from manager Mauricio Pochettino, who insists there was no malice involved – just a natural footballing incident.
The knockout stages are here, and the pressure's on! England's scrappy progression, Germany's calamitous exit, and all those burning questions about the tournament favourites – what's going to happen next? The tension's building, folks, so stay tuned for more drama and intrigue!