France advanced to the World Cup round of 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Sweden in New Jersey. Kylian Mbappé led the charge with two goals, while Barcola added another. The French side dominated possession and chances throughout, with Mbappé’s first-half strike breaking the deadlock just before halftime. He celebrated by embracing coach Didier Deschamps, who recently lost his mother.

In the second half, France maintained their attacking rhythm. Barcola doubled the lead in the 53rd minute from an Olise assist, and Mbappé sealed the win in the 74th minute with his second goal, again assisted by Olise. Sweden’s goalkeeper Zetterström made several saves to prevent a heavier defeat, as France registered 25 shots, 12 on target, while Sweden managed eight without serious threat.

With six goals in the tournament, Mbappé now matches Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race and has 18 career World Cup goals, one behind Messi’s record 19. France will face Paraguay, who eliminated Germany on penalties, in the next round.

A young man was shot dead and more than fifty others were injured during a violent clash between two groups in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur on Tuesday night. The confrontation erupted between residents of Purba Hasamdia and Kapuria Sadardi villages near the Dakshinpara bus stand. The deceased, Suman Sheikh, was a restaurant worker from Kapuria Sadardi village. The conflict reportedly began after a minor altercation between youths from the two villages several days earlier.

Police and local sources said the situation escalated when hundreds of young men from both sides gathered near a bridge and engaged in multiple rounds of chasing and counter-chasing. Shots were fired at the Kapuria Sadardi group, injuring Suman Sheikh and three others. The violence disrupted traffic on the Bhanga-Faridpur-Barishal-Mawa highway. Police attempted to control the situation, but as tensions rose, they used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd.

Bhanga Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Mizanur Rahman confirmed that one injured youth had died and that additional police forces were deployed to maintain order. Legal procedures are ongoing.

Serious allegations have emerged regarding the quality, storage, and distribution of milk supplied under the school feeding program in several government primary schools in Bajitpur upazila of Kishoreganj. Reports indicate that milk packets distributed to students were dirty, with dust, dark stains, and even insects visible on some packets. Similar complaints had previously been raised about the supply of bread, eggs, and bananas under the same program, prompting parents to express concern over potential health risks to children.

During a visit to Humaypur Government Primary School, milk packets were found in unhygienic condition, while earlier incidents at Gazirchar Government Primary School involved moldy bread and rotten eggs. Local parents questioned whether substandard food had been distributed for a long time and criticized the apparent neglect of rural students’ nutrition. Similar complaints were also reported from Mashimpur Government Primary School, where teachers and parents expressed dissatisfaction.

Local residents and concerned groups have urged authorities to test the quality of all food items distributed under the program and to conduct a transparent investigation into the allegations to ensure accountability and safety.

Bangladesh Bank has maintained its contractionary monetary stance for the first half of fiscal year 2026–27, keeping the policy rate unchanged at 10 percent due to inflation remaining above target. The central bank reduced the private sector credit growth target to 6.8 percent and announced a 600 billion taka stimulus package to revive economic activity. The new policy was unveiled by Governor Mostakur Rahman at the bank’s headquarters, with senior officials in attendance.

The statement noted that inflationary pressure rose again in the second half of 2025–26 due to fuel price adjustments, flood-related agricultural losses, and higher global commodity prices linked to the Iran conflict. Bangladesh Bank forecasted 6.1 percent GDP growth for the coming fiscal year, while the government set a 6.5 percent target. Real GDP growth in 2025–26 was 4.14 percent, showing modest recovery but still weak momentum.

The bank also introduced an 18‑month plan to reduce non‑performing loans, proposed new financial laws for faster case resolution, and capped the interest rate spread at four percent to improve banking discipline and competitiveness.

The Bangladesh Parliament on Tuesday passed the national budget for the 2026–27 fiscal year, amounting to Tk 9.38 trillion. The passage was completed through approval of the Appropriation Bill 2026, presented by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury. The budget takes effect from July 1, following presidential consent and gazette publication. The session, chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, approved the budget by voice vote after ministers defended expenditure proposals for 59 ministries.

The new budget, titled “Journey Toward a Democratic, Humane, and Inclusive Economy,” is the country’s 55th and the finance minister’s first. It is 18.73% larger than the previous year’s budget and targets 7.5% inflation and 6.5% GDP growth. The budget sets a deficit of Tk 2.43 trillion, to be financed through domestic and foreign borrowing. Revenue collection is targeted at Tk 6.95 trillion, with an Annual Development Programme of Tk 3 trillion.

Opposition lawmakers raised 1,343 cut motions and called for greater transparency and accountability in project implementation. They also demanded efficient use of funds and reduction of waste, while the government incorporated 64 amendments, including higher tax-free income limits and revised VAT measures.

Bangladesh today observes the third anniversary of the July Revolution, which began on July 1, 2024, as a student-led uprising demanding reform of the government job quota system. The movement, initially peaceful, escalated after violent crackdowns by law enforcement and ruling party activists, leading to widespread protests across the country. The uprising culminated in early August 2024 with the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, ending more than sixteen years of her rule.

The roots of the July Revolution trace back to 2018, when students under the Bangladesh General Students’ Rights Council demanded quota reform. Although the government initially abolished quotas for first- and second-class jobs, a 2024 High Court ruling reinstated them, reigniting protests. Students from major universities, including Dhaka, Jahangirnagar, Rajshahi, and Chittagong, organized demonstrations and set deadlines for the government to act. The newly formed Anti-Discrimination Student Movement coordinated nationwide actions, calling for the cancellation of the reinstated quota system.

The July 2024 protests evolved into a mass movement that reshaped Bangladesh’s political landscape, marking a turning point in the country’s struggle against authoritarianism.

The Khulna Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences, established in 1983 under the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, is facing severe allegations of mismanagement and favoritism. Patients from distant areas are reportedly suffering as serial registration closes before 8:30 a.m., and test reports are delayed by up to ten days. Many are redirected to private diagnostic centers. Director Dr. Jharna Das, who has been at the center for 21 years, is accused of running ISKCON-related activities within the government facility and providing free tests and early reports to ISKCON members while ordinary patients endure long waits.

Staff members allege that Dr. Das’s prolonged tenure has led to authoritarian behavior, irregularities, and corruption. Fourteen employees have sought transfers due to her conduct. Written complaints have been submitted to the Atomic Energy Commission chairman and the finance director, citing procurement corruption and administrative disorder. Despite having modern equipment, the center performs limited daily tests, and the director reportedly conducts private diagnostic work using government vehicles.

Attempts to contact Dr. Das for comment were unsuccessful, as she was reportedly on leave and declined to respond to inquiries.

A major controversy erupted at the 2026 World Cup after Germany’s extra-time goal against Paraguay was disallowed following a VAR review. In the round of 32 match at Boston Stadium, Jonathan Tah’s header in the 102nd minute was ruled out after the referee, consulting the video assistant referee, determined that defender Waldemar Anton had lightly impeded Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. The match ended 1-1 and went to penalties, where Paraguay triumphed 4-3, eliminating Germany from the tournament.

French football legend Thierry Henry condemned the decision as “crazy” and “very poor,” arguing that the contact was minimal and the goal should have stood. He said Germany had been “robbed” of a legitimate goal. Analysts Roy Keane and Alan Shearer also criticized the call, suggesting the goalkeeper had misjudged the cross and exaggerated the contact to influence the review.

The incident reignited debate over the effectiveness of VAR technology and its role in correcting “clear and obvious errors,” with renewed scrutiny on how such decisions impact major tournament outcomes.

Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann has conceded that the national team is no longer among the world’s top football powers after their elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Despite a 7–1 victory over Curaçao, Germany lost to Paraguay in a penalty shootout in the round of 32 at Boston’s Foxboro Stadium, marking their third consecutive early exit from a major tournament. Nagelsmann described the defeat as deeply disappointing and acknowledged that the team’s current level does not match its historic reputation.

In the post-match press conference, Nagelsmann criticized a VAR decision that disallowed Jonathan Tah’s extra-time header, calling it “a complete joke.” He also dismissed speculation about his resignation, saying he would continue if the German Football Association (DFB) wanted him to stay. The coach emphasized that he would not walk away from the challenge despite public criticism.

Nagelsmann hinted at the need for major structural changes to restore Germany’s former strength, suggesting that significant reforms and new solutions are required for the team’s future direction.

Prime Minister Tarek Rahman has ordered the cancellation of the traditional post-budget dinner for the 2026–27 fiscal year. The decision, confirmed by Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumman, was made to reduce government expenditure. The cancellation is expected to save approximately 5 million taka. The dinner, usually hosted by the Ministry of Finance at the Parliament complex on the night of the budget’s passage, typically includes the prime minister, opposition leaders, cabinet members, lawmakers, senior officials, and journalists.

According to the press secretary, previous administrations under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina spent between 3 to 5.5 billion taka annually on hospitality, with additional costs of 1 to 1.2 billion taka each year. The Bangladesh Tourism Corporation had supplied meals for the Prime Minister’s Office, and outstanding dues from those years are still being repaid by the current government.

Rumman added that since taking office, Prime Minister Rahman has reduced hospitality allowances. In the current month, the Prime Minister’s Office spent 1.69 million taka on hospitality, while around 9 million taka was spent on two Eid events at the state guesthouse Jamuna.

Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. took a playful jab at German economist Joachim Klement after Brazil’s unexpected victory contradicted Klement’s mathematical prediction that the team would be eliminated by Japan in the ongoing World Cup. Klement, known for accurately forecasting the last three champions using a four-pillar economic model, saw his predictions falter when both Brazil and his favored Netherlands defied expectations on the same day. Following these results, Neymar posted teasing messages on social media platform X, telling Klement to try again in the next World Cup and commenting “wrong again” after the Netherlands’ loss.

Klement’s model is based on four factors: a country’s GDP, population size, average temperature, and fan presence in stadiums. He argues that these variables influence football success by reflecting infrastructure, talent pool, climate suitability, and psychological support. However, Brazil’s 2–1 win over Japan, sealed by Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal, demonstrated the unpredictability of football beyond mathematical equations.

The incident highlighted the limits of statistical forecasting in sports, showing that real matches can overturn even the most data-driven predictions.

Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker has expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bangladeshi fans for their enthusiastic support during the ongoing World Cup. Despite Bangladesh not participating in the tournament, the country’s football fans have drawn global attention through their celebrations after every Argentina and Brazil match. Their viral displays of passion have reached the dressing rooms of both Latin American football giants.

Following Brazil’s dramatic 2–1 comeback victory over Japan in the round of 32, Alisson told broadcaster T Sports that he had seen videos of Bangladeshi supporters and thanked them for their love, saying Brazilians love Bangladesh in return. Midfielder Casemiro also conveyed his appreciation to Bangladeshi fans in the mixed zone after the match. Their messages have sparked renewed excitement among Brazil supporters in Bangladesh.

The mutual admiration between Bangladeshi fans and Latin American football stars has turned this World Cup into a deeply emotional experience for football enthusiasts in Bangladesh, even without their national team on the field.

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has canceled the candidacy of BNP leader Aslam Chowdhury, who was elected from Chattogram-4 in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, citing loan default. As a result, he will not be able to take oath as a Member of Parliament. The decision on whether a re-election will be held or a rival candidate will be declared winner will be known after the release of the full verdict.

In a video message following the June 30 ruling, Aslam Chowdhury stated that the Election Commission had earlier validated his nomination, which was later upheld by the High Court. He said he participated in the election under court directives and was elected by voters, but the latest Supreme Court ruling created a new legal situation. He expressed respect for the judiciary and said a review petition would be considered after receiving the full verdict.

Legal experts noted that the case has passed through the Election Commission, High Court, and Appellate Division, and that the full verdict will clarify the legal interpretations and determine the basis for any review petition.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed said the July-August mass uprising represented the culmination of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal’s 17-year-long movement against what he called Awami misrule. He made the remarks early Wednesday, July 1, at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka during a candlelight event titled “Aloy Smriti Somujjol,” organized by the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal to mark the second anniversary of the uprising. Participants lit candles and sang the national anthem in memory of those killed in the July-August events.

Rizvi praised the sacrifices of the movement’s martyrs, saying their memory would continue to inspire resistance to injustice and authoritarianism. He criticized the Awami League government, alleging corruption in major infrastructure projects and urging students to remain vigilant. He also commended BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s leadership, describing it as a unifying force for nationalism.

JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib said the organization would continue to commemorate the uprising annually, honoring the 142 JCD members and supporters who died. Other leaders reaffirmed their commitment to democracy, justice, and national sovereignty.

Norway advanced to the World Cup round of sixteen for the first time after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1, thanks to a decisive 86th-minute goal from Erling Haaland. The match, held on July 1, 2026, saw Norway take the lead in the first half through a long-range strike from Antonio Nusa. Ivory Coast equalized in the second half with a solo effort from Amad Diallo, but Haaland’s composed finish late in the game sealed a historic victory for the European side.

The win marked Norway’s first-ever knockout stage success in World Cup history. Haaland, who has scored in all three of Norway’s matches in the tournament, now has five goals in the current campaign and 60 in 53 international appearances. His consistent scoring form has been a key factor in Norway’s progress.

With this result, Norway secured a place in the last sixteen and will face five-time world champions Brazil on July 5. Haaland’s continued form could pose a serious challenge for the South American giants in the upcoming match.