Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 13, 2026, 8:42 PM ET

World Cup Action and Off-Field Developments

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is dominating headlines, with a dramatic 1-1 draw between Qatar and Switzerland on Saturday, where Qatar scored a stoppage-time equalizer to secure their first-ever World Cup point. The match has sparked debate, with calls for FIFA to release VAR images following a controversial offside decision. Meanwhile, the United States has begun its campaign with a decisive 4-1 victory over Paraguay, a performance that has dispelled doubts about their readiness as a host nation, with Folarin Balogun emerging as a significant scoring threat after his brace in the match as confirmed by live updates. Christian Pulisic was subbed at halftime in that game, but France's Olivier Giroud believes Pulisic holds the key to USA's tournament aspirations.

In other World Cup news, Scotland is preparing for their first match in 28 years against Haiti, with coach Steve Clarke facing midfield selection dilemmas as reported by BBC Scotland. The Tartan Army has arrived in force, united by captain Andy Robertson's call to avoid regrets. Elsewhere, police in Peru adopted a unique tactic by dressing as World Cup mascots to conduct a drug raid in Lima. In a separate incident, two individuals were arrested in Kansas City in connection with the theft of England's World Cup training equipment, though most of the gear has since been recovered.

Team Performances and Player Focus

Brazil, despite being the most successful nation in World Cup history, faces scrutiny as they aim to end a 24-year title drought. Neymar will be on the bench for Brazil's match against Morocco, with Vinicius Jr. tasked with stepping up in his absence as previewed by Sky Sports. Germany, who have struggled in recent World Cups, are relying on veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, a member of their 2014 winning squad, to provide leadership, as they prepare to face Curacao. There are also reports that one of Germany's players could extend their stay in the U.S. beyond the tournament.

Scotland achieved a significant milestone by securing their first-ever T20 World Cup win against Ireland, a victory that marks a historic moment for the nation in cricket. In netball, London Pulse defeated Loughborough Lightning to set up a Netball Super League final clash with Manchester Thunder. Meanwhile, Hull FC and Catalans Dragons secured morale-boosting wins in Super League action.

Transfer Rumors and Managerial Movements

Fulham has reportedly held talks with former Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa regarding their managerial position according to ESPN sources. In the Premier League rumor mill, Arsenal is tracking winger Bradley Barcola, with sources indicating the club is monitoring his situation, while Liverpool is also reported to be interested. Bayern Munich is also linked with a move for Manchester United's Marcus Rashford according to newspaper reports. Elsewhere, former Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is reportedly open to Marcus Rashford returning to Old Trafford as per Sunday's newspapers, with Paul Pogba noting Carrick's positive impact on the Manchester United squad during his tenure. AC Milan is considering Ruben Amorim as a leading candidate for their vacant managerial post as per BBC Sport.

Other Sporting News

In golf, Tommy Fleetwood is in contention at the RBC Canadian Open, sitting two shots off the lead heading into the final round. Tennis saw Emma Raducanu storm into the Queen's Club final with a dominant performance. In boxing, Eddie Hearn is confident that a bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury will take place in the UK in November as he stated on Sky Sports. The World Cup of Darts is underway, with England's Luke Littler and Luke Humphries advancing to the quarter-finals to face Wales after defeating Spain. In horse racing, jockey Ryan Moore has been awarded an MBE for his contributions to racing and British sport.