Amid the geopolitics and tragedies, the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued its group stage in the United States. Côte d’Ivoire faced Ecuador in a Group E match played in 90°F heat, with the Ivorians returning to the World Cup stage after a twelve-year absence. Ecuador, widely regarded as a dark horse in the tournament, looked to make an early statement.
Meanwhile, in New York City, there was celebration of a different kind: the Knicks were set for a ticker-tape parade after winning the NBA Finals, with MVP Jalen Brunson and his teammates expected to ride through the Canyon of Heroes.
