Korea fight back to see off Czechia

Substitute Oh Hyeon-gyu gave South Korea a winning start to the World Cup as they came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1. Oh struck 11 minutes from time after Hwang In-beom’s moment of magic had cancelled out Czech captain Ladislav Krejci’s header in Guadalajara. South Korea made the brighter start, Son Heung-min firing over with Lee Han-Beom heading over the bar before Paris St Germain’s Lee Kang-in forced a save from Matej Kovar with an effort from outside the box.

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Mexico beat South Africa in chaotic World Cup opener

Co-hosts Mexico made a strong start to their 2026 World Cup campaign as they defeated nine-man South Africa at a packed Azteca Stadium in the tournament opener. Three players were sent off in all, with Mexico reduced to 10 men in the closing moments. Mexico had only needed nine minutes before they delighted their fans with the first goal of the finals.

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Real Madrid reappoint José Mourinho on three-year deal

Real Madrid have confirmed the reappointment of Jose Mourinho as head coach. The 63-year-old has agreed a three-year deal and will begin work when the club returns for pre-season training on 13 July. Real Madrid have paid Benfica €15m in compensation to bring the Portuguese head coach back to the Bernabeu – more than a decade after his first stint at the club came to an end.

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Kieran McKenna steps down as Ipswich manager

Kieran McKenna has resigned as Ipswich Town manager, just weeks after clinching a return to the Premier League. The 40-year-old took charge of the Tractor Boys in 2021 and guided them to three promotions in the past four seasons, two of which have taken the club into the top flight. Former Wolves head coach Gary O’Neil – currently boss of Strasbourg – is one manager in the frame to replace McKenna.

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Atletico Madrid reject €150m Julian Alvarez bid from city rivals Real

Real Madrid have had a €150m offer for striker Julian Alvarez rejected by city rivals Atletico Madrid. Real president Florentino Perez last week pledged to make a 1€50m offer for an unnamed “galactico” player if re-elected to his position. Having successfully retained control on Sunday, Perez made good on his promise. However, the move for the 26-year-old Argentina forward was turned down by his club, who cited Alvarez’s release clause of €500m.

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