The Portuguese side advanced to the World Cup last 16 after they came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Croatia at the BMO Field in Toronto.

Goals from Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos cancelled out Ivan Perisic’s opening goal, which proved to be enough to send them to the next round.

Ronaldo said the team’s pre-match discussions about Jota added extra meaning to the result, praising Portugal’s determination and composure in overcoming a difficult challenge.

“We knew it before the game. It was a so special moment. We speak today, our group, about that, the coincidence of life, it’s unbelievable,” Ronaldo said afterwards of the tribute to Jota.

“I was amazed because the situation of today. It means a lot to us, not only because we won the game, but also the way we won the game. It was a difficult game, we knew it.”

The post Cristiano Ronaldo Hails Emotional Victory After Jota Tribute appeared first on SportsClub.

Kwayiba arrives at the club on a permanent basis after parting ways with Chippa United, where he scored 17 goals and grabbed three assists in 59 appearances across all competitions.

The 26-year-old has since put pen to paper on a long-term deal with the Maroons.

Kwayiba has described his move to the Cape Winelands club as the perfect fit, praising the club’s professionalism and welcoming environment while outlining his ambition to help the Maroons challenge for silverware.

“It’s nice to have joined Stellenbosch FC and to become part of the Club,” Kwayiba told his new club’s official website.

“The coach, the staff, and the players have welcomed me very well. Since the first day, it’s felt like I am at home, and I can see that this is going to be a good space for me to play my football.

“I played three seasons against Stellenbosch, and every time I did, I saw the same thing, the same team, and the same organisation. From the outside, you can see how this team operates, the professionalism, and how well organised it is. It was never easy playing against Stellenbosch.”

“Stellenbosch, this season, can achieve many things.

“My ambition is to help the team win games, compete for cups, fight for the league, play in the Champions League, and go to the stage that those guys before me went. That’s my ambition.

“The only thing I can say to the Stellenbosch FC fans and family is that when my first game comes around, I’m going to work hard to get into the team, to earn my place, to play and do my best; to do good for the team and to do good for me.”

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The Namibian striker joined Mamelodi Sundowns from Highlands Park ahead of the 2020/21 season.

Shalulile spent six years at Chloorkop, making 228 appearances, scoring 107 goals and providing 27 assists.

The 32-year-old leaves Sundowns having won nine trophies, including five PSL titles, one CAF Champions League trophy, one African Football League, one Nedbank Cup and one MTN8 title.

“I decided (to leave) and I then spoke to my mom that the best thing to do was to speak to the club and president,” Shalulile told the Sundowns media.

“To give me the opportunity to showcase my talent somewhere else, which is something that I always wanted to do. The journey has been good and amazing.

“Coming to a club where there are top players is difficult but with all the hard work and dedication, I’ve managed to get a number of records, trophies and leagues but it was all about the hard work.”

He added: “Setbacks were the times where injuries came but more than that is when I couldn’t score goals and it was dry.

“It was a time where I needed to dig deep inside myself. Regardless of not scoring, I still came to the gym, and I still managed to do my finishing drills everyday.

“I can say that the help from my teammates was one of the best moments and was amazing. They kept on helping me to a point when I broke the ice, they all came to the pitch to celebrate.”

The post Peter Shalulile Opens Up on Sundowns Departure appeared first on SportsClub.

Da Cruz officially arrived in South Africa on Wednesday and joined the squad at Naturena as Amakhosi stepped up preparations for the 2026/27 season.

The 53-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Lille, Mouscron, AS FAR Rabat and was previously assistant manager at Chiefs

Da Cruz has now been appointed as the club’s new head coach and is the successor to Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.

The Frenchman believes hard work, unity and the unwavering support of the Amakhosi faithful will be key as he embarks on a new chapter at one of South Africa’s biggest football clubs.

“I’m very happy to be here. The Club has always held a special place in my heart, and I’ve kept a close eye on its journey over the past two years.

“Kaizer Chiefs is a massive institution with passionate supporters and a proud history.

“My focus now is on building a strong connection with the players, instilling a winning mentality, and working together to achieve the success our fans deserve.

“The journey ahead will demand hard work and unity, but I’m confident we will rise to the challenge.”

Coach Fernando da Cruz is now fully in the building, stepping into his role with clear intent, strong leadership, and a shared belief in what this team can become.

With the full technical team in place, the focus is clear. Every drill matters. Every detail counts. Every day is a… pic.twitter.com/fjj43n7VCD

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 2, 2026

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Mofokeng moved to the Belgian outfit after parting ways with Orlando Pirates, where he played a key role in their domestic treble.

He left Pirates having scored 29 goals and registered 31 assists in 125 appearances in all competitions.

The 21-year-old put pen to paper on a deal at Union, which will see him remain at the club until mid-2030, with an option to extend it by a further year.

The South African youngster reflected on a remarkable year that included winning the league title and making his FIFA World Cup debut for Bafana Bafana.

“I’m very happy to be here,” Mofokeng told his club’s official website.

“It’s a dream to play in Europe and to begin our Champions League qualifying campaign soon.

“The past year has been very special, with the league title, my first FIFA World Cup with South Africa and now this important step in my career.

“I hope to continue developing as a player here. Together with the team, we’ll do everything we can to compete for trophies.”

The post Mofokeng Targets Trophies After Completing Union Saint-Gilloise Move appeared first on SportsClub.

The Namibian striker joined Sundowns from Highlands Park during the 2020/21 season.

Shalulile spent six years at Chloorkop and went on to feature 228 times and scored 107 goals. while registered 27 assists.

The 32-year-old leaves Sundowns having won nine trophies, including five PSL titles, one CAF Champions League trophy, one African Football League, one Nedbank Cup and one MTN8 title.

“From unforgettable finishes to iconic celebrations, Peter Shalulile gave the Yellow Nation memories that will live on for years to come,” Sundowns announced.

“As we bid Sha Sha farewell, let’s show him love as one of the best strikers in Mamelodi Sundowns history.”

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐋𝐄 𝐄𝐑𝐀 🔥

From unforgettable finishes to iconic celebrations, Peter Shalulile gave the Yellow Nation memories that will live on for years to come 🔥

As we bid Sha Sha farewell, let's show him love as one of the best strikers in Mamelodi Sundowns… pic.twitter.com/G77LsFF1Hc

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) July 2, 2026

“Thank you Sha Sha.”

“Peter Shalulile departs Mamelodi Sundowns as one of the club’s most prolific forwards 🙌

“Thank you for the goals, trophies, and the commitment in yellow. All the best for what comes next, Peter.”

𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗦𝗛𝗔 𝗦𝗛𝗔 👆

Peter Shalulile departs Mamelodi Sundowns as one of the club’s most prolific forwards 🙌

Thank you for the goals, trophies, and the commitment in yellow. All the best for what comes next, Peter. 💛#Sundowns #ThankYouShaSha pic.twitter.com/8x4JSPD78m

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) July 2, 2026

The post End of an Era: Mamelodi Sundowns Confirm Peter Shalulile Exit appeared first on SportsClub.

South Africa had a successful World Cup campaign after making history by progressing to the Round of 32 for the first time in the nations history.

Hugo Broos’ side crashed out of the global showpiece after their 1-0 defeat to Canada at the SoFi Stadium on Sunday.

Bafana has since returned home to a warm welcome from their supports at O.R. Tambo International Airport.

WATCH: Bafana return to South Africa

Bafana Bafana receives a warm welcome from supporters at O.R Tambo International Airport ⚽️🔥🇿🇦#bafanabafana #bafanapride pic.twitter.com/jIiL0hygr6

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) July 2, 2026

The post Bafana Bafana Receive Hero’s Welcome on Home Soil appeared first on SportsClub.

The Three Lions secured their progression to the World Cup last 16 following their 2-1 victory over DR Congo.

Kane scored a brace to hand his side the victory and all three points at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Georgia.

England will now take on Mexico in the Round of 16 when they meet at the Azteca Stadium on Monday.

Kane acknowledged there is still room for improvement but stressed that progressing is the priority at this stage of the tournament, while highlighting the importance of players stepping up in key moments.

“It feels amazing to be honest. What a crazy game,” Kane told BBC Sport.

“They are a tough team and then after that first break we were much better and their keeper made some unbelievable saves.

“We spoke about people having hero moments and it can be anyone. It was me today. We spoke all week about just being ourselves.

“There are still things to work on for sure and these rounds are just about getting through.

“We are in the part of the tournament when you have to grind wins out, and that’s what we have done today.”

The post Kane: “We spoke about having hero moments, It was me today” appeared first on SportsClub.

The 21-year-old has become the first arrival under the Blues new manager Xabi Alonso.

Palestra joins the club from Atalanta after putting pen to paper on a six-year deal, with the option of a further year.

The Italian international came through the ranks of Atalanta’s academy and his professional debut in December 2023.

Palestra also went on to make his debut for the Italian national team in their World Cup qualifying play-off against Northern Ireland in March this year.

The young defender highlighted the positive energy he has already felt since Chelsea first showed interest, and admitted he is looking forward to meeting the fans, his new teammates, and the coaching staff.

“I’m very excited to get started. I’ve felt the energy since the first day Chelsea wanted me. I can’t wait to start, see all the fans, my teammates and the manager,” Palestra told the Chelsea website.

“We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad and manager in Xabi.

“He has spoken to me about how he wants us to play, which is exciting, and we can’t wait to compete in the Premier League.”

The post Chelsea Complete £43m Signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta appeared first on SportsClub.

Jacquet joins the club after putting pen to paper on a five-year deal for a transfer fee of £55m with add-ons of up to £5m.

The 20-year-old arrives at the club after he came through the ranks at Rennes and he has gone on to feature in 33 appearances across all competitions for the senior team.

New Liverpool signing Jeremy Jacquet says he is thrilled to begin a new chapter at Anfield after completing his move to the Premier League giants.

“I feel really good, the first impressions are good and I am very happy to start here,” Jacquet told the Liverpool website.

“I am very happy. When I see the facilities, I can see myself there. I feel good here and I am very excited to get started.

“For me it’s a big dream, it’s a big club. A club like Liverpool, it’s a big dream for me.”

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