How the USMNT’s World Cup exit became America’s biggest non-NFL sports event in years? A look at the record-breaking audience

• Belgium eliminated the USMNT from the World Cup following a dominant victory fueled by a first-half brace from Charles De Ketelaere. • The U.S. managed one goal via a deflected strike from Malik Tillman, who became the first player since 1982 to record two free-kick goals in a single tournament.

• Singapore national team coach Gavin Lee expressed optimism regarding his squad's readiness for the upcoming Asean Championship. • The team will face significant challenges due to the absence of key players Safuwan Baharudin and Ikhsan Fandi.

• Everton have expressed interest in signing 31-year-old winger Jacob Murphy from Newcastle United, according to Sky Sports. • While no official bid has been submitted, Murphy has only one year remaining on his current contract.

• Violent disorder erupted in London following France's victory over Morocco during the 2026 World Cup. • The unrest occurred as Spain and Belgium prepared for their upcoming quarter-final showdown.

• The Mirror is reporting the latest Premier League transfer rumors, including a collapsed Manchester United deal and Bruno Guimaraes reportedly agreeing to terms with Arsenal. • Other key developments include a potential £80 million move involving Liverpool, alongside ongoing activity from Chelsea.

• The World Cup 2026 quarter-finals commence this Thursday, featuring matchups between France vs Morocco, Spain vs Belgium, Norway vs England, and Argentina vs Switzerland. • France enters the knockout stage as the tournament favorite according to the Opta Supercomputer, following three group stage wins and a dominant 3-0 victory over Sweden in the round of 32.

• AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale is reportedly keen to sign Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk this summer. • The 34-year-old Dutchman is said to be open to hearing an offer from the Italian club, according to Gazzetto dello Sport.

• Over 30 million viewers tuned in to watch the U.S. men's national soccer team face Belgium in a World Cup knockout stage match on Monday night in Seattle. • The game was broadcast by Fox, drawing a massive audience that underscores the growing popularity of the sport within the United States.

• The USMNT's run in its home World Cup generated record-breaking soccer betting handle for American sportsbooks, culminating in a high-volume Round of 16 match against Belgium. • BetMGM reported that the USMNT vs. Belgium game surpassed betting volume for the men's college basketball national championship and various NBA, NHL, and MLB championship series games.

• Juventus is reportedly considering a move to sign defender John Stones this summer, according to Sky Italy. • Stones is currently participating in the World Cup but is a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired.

• Manchester United is reportedly pursuing several transfer targets, including a potential £80 million move as they look to reshape the squad. • The club is monitoring various players, including Alex Scott, Ederson, Sander Berge, Andrey Santos, and Crysencio Summerville.