Previewing France vs. Spain in the first World Cup semifinalPreviewing France vs. Spain in the first World Cup semifinal
Previewing France vs. Spain in the first World Cup semifinal
Saturday saw everyone’s favorite Viking eliminated as (hey) Jude Bellingham’s two goals for England sent Norway rowing back home. Meanwhile, Argentina’s Leo Messi got by with a little help from his friends to bid Switzerland adieu. Wednesday’s newsletter will have all the deets on that epic semifinal, because we have to focus on tomorrow’s between France and Spain.
July 12, 2026
The Round of 16 rages on at the 2026 men’s World CupThe Round of 16 rages on at the 2026 men’s World Cup
The Round of 16 rages on at the 2026 men’s World Cup
July 06, 2026
And just like that, the Round of 16 is nearly over. Here are the highlights from the long weekend, plus a look at the final three games before the quarter-finals (QF) begin on Thursday.
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 A gossipy World Cup quarter-final preview A gossipy World Cup quarter-final preview

The summer of soccer rages on, and the World Cup is about to gift us a slate of spectacular quarterfinal matches. On today’s episode of The GIST of It, co-hosts Ellen Hyslop and Steph Rotz break down all four tilts: They highlight the players to watch, each team’s path to the final eight, and sprinkle in their hottest takes…as is tradition. Clear your cal — this weekend’s footy is must-watch TV.

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World Cup knockout games bring drama and historyWorld Cup knockout games bring drama and history
World Cup knockout games bring drama and history
Just when you thought the FIFA men’s World Cup (WC) couldn’t get any better, Monday happened. All three Round of 32 games went into extra time, with Brazil sending Japan home via a stoppage time stunner and the other two tilts going to penalty kicks (PK) after 1–1 full-time draws.
July 01, 2026