
World Cup Round of 32 Predictions: Expert Picks, Algorithmic Insights, and Fan Favorites
A look at how veteran writers, a proprietary algorithm, a dog, a child, and a subscriber community shape the outlook for the tournament's next matches.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning The Athletic across Football, Soccer, Baseball.

A look at how veteran writers, a proprietary algorithm, a dog, a child, and a subscriber community shape the outlook for the tournament's next matches.
Major League Baseball announced disciplinary measures after a bench‑clearing incident that erupted during a game between the Boston Red Sox and Washington Nationals, highlighting concerns over language and social‑media conduct.

Hints and solutions for the July 3, 2026 Connections: Soccer Edition puzzle, plus insight into its creator Will Jeanes and the game’s mechanics.

Kaulig Racing’s chief executive outlined the timeline for Dodge’s potential return to the Cup Series, highlighting both the anticipation and the technical challenges that remain.

In a recent interview, Kaulig Racing chief Chris Rice dismissed speculation about selling the team’s charters, confirming they will remain intact for at least three decades.

The Calgary Flames and Minnesota Wild finalized a trade that sees defenseman Jacob Middleton head to Calgary, while forward Blake Coleman and defenseman Olli Maatta head the other way, accompanied by draft picks.

The Minnesota Wild face a pivotal offseason as Marcus Johansson, Mats Zuccarello and Vladimir Tarasenko depart, prompting questions about replacement value, cap strategy and the future of star forward Dylan Larkin.

With elite ERAs, strikeout totals and accolades, Florida State's ace arms are projected to be among the most coveted arms in the upcoming draft.

Ron Weaver, a 30‑year‑old former college player, masqueraded as a freshman to join the University of Texas football team in 1995, using a fake identity and social security number before his deception unraveled just before the Sugar Bowl.

A look at Matchday 21 drama, key player performances and the forecasts for the upcoming Round of 32 fixtures.

Alabama's Amari Allen, a do‑it‑all wing, is projected to be selected between seventh and tenth overall in the 2027 NBA Draft after a promising freshman campaign.

The Boston Celtics sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Paul George and multiple future draft selections, a move that has divided fans, analysts, and former players alike.

The Boston Celtics sent Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Paul George and multiple future draft picks, igniting a wave of commentary across the league.

A daily brain‑teaser tied to the 2026 World Cup offers clues and answers for four distinct categories, crafted by senior editor Will Jeanes of The Athletic.

In a blockbuster move that reshapes both rosters, the New York Rangers send Vincent Trocheck to the Utah Mammoth, receiving defenseman Sean Durzi, forward prospect Cole Beaudoin and a 2027 third‑round draft pick in return.

The Wolverines navigate a volatile offseason after Dusty May left for the NBA, with interim leadership, roster commitments and recruiting rankings shaping the road ahead.

With Dusty May gone and Mike Boynton Jr. stepping in as interim head coach, Michigan must navigate a critical 31‑day period to retain key players and decide on a permanent coach.

France tops the standings with Kylian Mbappe leading the scoring, Mexico advances unbeaten, and several under‑dogs prepare for decisive matches.

The USMNT’s surprising run to the round of 32 has sparked a worldwide wave of American fans watching from cities such as Tokushima, Madrid, Vienna, Tangier, Mexico City and London, each bringing their own local flavor to the tournament.

Mexico defeated Ecuador in a rain‑delayed World Cup knockout match, with young Gilberto Mora shining and a place in the round of 16 awaiting either England or DR Congo.

A 4‑1 win over Paraguay has ignited optimism, with former players highlighting pressing, player form and home‑field advantage as key drivers

The daily puzzle challenges players to sort sixteen soccer‑related terms into four groups, with today’s solution drawing on refereeing gear, US and Argentina coaches, and goal‑line moves.

Award‑winning journalist Seth Davis is set to headline the 2026 University of San Diego Basketball Coaches Clinic, sharing his extensive experience from CBS Sports, TNT Sports and his acclaimed writings with a select audience of verified coaches.

The surge of new viewers in the World Cup and the WNBA reveals a cultural shift, as longtime insiders grapple with the arrival of audiences that do not share the same rituals or expectations.