Katie Collier

Brenda Blethyn says she would gladly return as DCI Vera Stanhope for a special episode of ITV’s Vera, despite the series ending in 2025 after 14 series and no reboot currently being planned. She also has an upcoming role as Emma Harte in Channel 4’s adaptation of A Woman of Substance, while all episodes of Vera remain available on ITVX.

England makes seven lineup changes for its bronze final match against France, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham among those replaced. The updated starting XI includes D. Henderson, Saka, Rashford, Eze and Toney. Coverage of the match airs on BBC One and iPlayer, with kickoff at 10pm UK time from Miami Stadium. The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina will be shown on BBC One and ITV1 the following day.

England were eliminated from the World Cup after a 2-1 loss to Argentina, despite taking the lead through Anthony Gordon before late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez. England will face France in the bronze final on July 18, while Spain and Argentina will compete for the title on July 19, with the match broadcast on BBC and ITV. England’s only previous World Cup final appearance remains their 1966 victory over West Germany.

England’s confirmed starting lineup for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina includes Pickford, Rice, Stones, Guehi, Anderson, Kane, Bellingham, Rogers, Gordon, James and Spence, with a full bench of substitutes listed. Spain awaits the winner in the final after defeating France, while the loser will face France in the third-place play-off. England’s only previous World Cup final appearance and victory came in 1966.

FIFA is expected to keep England’s World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico at its original time despite discussions about moving it earlier due to storms. Fans and pundits expressed frustration over the potential change, while England players and staff stressed readiness regardless of kick-off time. The game remains scheduled for 6pm local time at altitude in Mexico, with coverage beginning at midnight UK time on BBC One and iPlayer.

Keir Starmer announced that pubs in England and Wales may remain open until 5am on July 6 to accommodate fans watching the England–Mexico World Cup match, which kicks off at 1am UK time. The decision overrides the earlier requirement for pubs to apply for a Temporary Event Notice for late openings beyond 2am. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood had previously approved extended hours for knockout‑stage matches, but varying time zones across the North American host countries created additional challenges. The blanket extension ensures pubs can operate throughout the match and any possible extra time or penalties without risking lost revenue.

England advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup after a 2–1 win over DR Congo, with Harry Kane scoring both goals including a stoppage‑time winner. Brian Cipenga opened scoring early for DR Congo, but England recovered after several lineup changes. The team will face Mexico on July 6 as they continue their push toward the quarter‑finals.

England reached the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup with a 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo following two late goals by Harry Kane. Kane’s performance keeps him in contention for the Golden Boot alongside several top international players. England will face Mexico next on July 6, with the match broadcast on BBC One and iPlayer.

England’s match against DR Congo sparked controversy after Harry Kane was denied a penalty despite apparent contact from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. Analysts Alan Shearer, Micah Richards and Joe Hart argued it should have been awarded, while Wayne Rooney supported the referee’s decision. Fans on social media expressed frustration, calling the decision unfair. England needed a win to advance to the World Cup Round of 16, potentially facing Mexico in the next stage.