Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: September 26, 2026, 2:22 PM ET

International Football

The Republic of Ireland players voted to fulfill their Nations League fixtures against Israel, with the squad intending to wear black armbands "in recognition of all innocent victims." The pre-match news conference was delayed amid protests over the conflict. Northern Ireland secured a landmark 1-0 win over Georgia, with the Charles brothers lauded as "brilliant" while manager Michael O'Neill was left baffled by refereeing decisions. Scotland began their Nations League rebuild under Sebastien Pocognoli, with Ure hitting the post in a goalless draw against Slovenia. Northern Ireland will travel to Slovakia to face Ukraine in their next fixture.

Italy suffered a 2-0 defeat to Belgium, with returning manager Roberto Mancini accepting fans' jeers. Zinedine Zidane's debut as France manager ended on a sour note as Kylian Mbappé left camp with an injury, though France still won. Switzerland lost a second player as Breel Embolo was withdrawn over fake COVID documents. Mohamed Salah was left out of Egypt's match against South Sudan due to artificial turf concerns. Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha was omitted from England's squad to face Spain. Thomas Tuchel questioned whether Cole Palmer is "desperate" to play for England. Kai Havertz returned to Arsenal for treatment after sustaining a muscle strain with Germany.

USMNT & Americas

Mauricio Pochettino shared "regret" over the Folarin Balogun red card controversy and its impact on the USMNT. Pochettino also said 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan is ready for his USMNT debut. A ranking of the top 50 USMNT players by club performance was published as the World Cup cycle begins. Mexico coach Rafael Márquez defended the return of Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, calling him a "difference-maker." Brazil's Ancelotti criticized the pitch after a draw with Australia.

Premier League & Club Football

Manchester City face an expected guilty verdict on the majority of their 115 financial charges, with chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak remaining confident the club will prove its innocence. A verdict will leave a stain on the Premier League era, while fans are facing up to the reality of a guilty finding. Premier League clubs are seeking legal advice over the charges, though there is no appetite to strip titles. A computer hacker who tried to take down Man City was profiled. Rodri said he "believes in the innocence" of Manchester City and called their success "deserved."

Julian Ward was appointed Liverpool's sporting director for a second time. Crystal Palace rejected a £50m Liverpool bid for Ismaila Sarr. Arsenal and Liverpool are upping interest in Brentford winger Kevin Schade. Erling Haaland lacks a relegation clause in his City contract. Celtic have McKenna among standby managerial targets. Europe's top leagues demanded FIFA reform. Barcelona's record-breaking start to the season, with 36 goals in eight games, is the best in Europe's top leagues for almost 100 years. A little-known striker leads Raphinha, Mbappé and Haaland in the European Golden Shoe race. Thomas Tuchel faces a dilemma over whether England should emulate Spain or embrace Premier League "chaos." Spain's reign as world and European champions is just getting started. England may have a problem against top-10 teams. Wes Burns credited Craig Bellamy's support during his injury recovery. Eva Olid's tactics at Manchester United are showing teething troubles. Jose Mourinho is struggling to fix midfield control issues at Real Madrid.

Women's Football

Jess Fishlock broke Megan Rapinoe's Seattle Reign scoring record. Alexia Putellas grabbed her first WSL goal as London City faced Brighton. A Greenwood free kick gave Manchester City the lead at Charlton. Zoe Harrison's converted try in added time saw England's Red Roses win a thriller 26-19 over New Zealand.

Golf & Tennis

Matt Fitzpatrick built a five-shot lead at the Open de France after Tommy Fleetwood withdrew. Charley Hull overcame post-Solheim Cup illness to charge into the LPGA Tour title mix. The Internationals stunned Team USA with a session sweep to build a shock Presidents Cup lead. Carlos Alcaraz and Jakub Mensik gave Team Europe a 3-1 lead after the opening day of the Laver Cup.

Combat Sports & Other Sports

Tyson Fury claimed the all-British heavyweight blockbuster with Anthony Joshua is in jeopardy. Dana White promoted Fury-AJ, asking "Who's going to stop me?" Johnny Fisher said "Don't let them break you, let them build you" ahead of his Copper Box clash. Expert predictions were made for Fisher vs Pirotton.

Steph Curry agreed to a two-year, $116 million contract extension with the Golden State Warriors. Warrington reached the Super League Grand Final after a 14-12 win over Leeds, with a controversial penalty sparking debate. Northampton opened the Prem Rugby season with a win. Pierre Royal struck Cambridgeshire gold for Ireland. Orthodox bounced back from his Prix Morny defeat to win the Middle Park Stakes. Sun Goddess passed a "massive test" to win the Cheveley Park Stakes. An MMA fighter is helping Brighton with set pieces. Stephen Bunting believes Luke Littler can become the greatest ever but won't surpass legendary Phil Taylor. Josh Allen warned rivals of the "special" atmosphere at Buffalo's $2.1bn stadium.