Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 23, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Group Stage Drama and Knockout Preparations

England's World Cup campaign hit a speed bump as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Ghana at Gillette Stadium. Despite dominant statistics, including more possession and shots, the Three Lions' attack failed to find the back of the net, a recurring issue that has plagued them in recent tournaments, 10. Manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged the need to avoid disrupting the team's attacking rhythm, stating his plan is to "not disturb the music" of his forwards. The draw leaves England's hopes of topping Group L in the balance, with questions arising about the team's selection and overall performance. Meanwhile, footage circulating on social media appeared to show England's Djed Spence not shaking hands with Ghana's Thomas Partey before the match, adding a layer of pre-game tension. In other Group L action, France secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Iraq, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice before and after a two-hour weather delay that tested the mental fortitude of both sides, 106. The reigning champions' cruise to victory highlights their strong form, though the performance against an outmatched opponent offers limited insight into their true knockout stage potential. France's head coach, Didier Deschamps, will miss their final group game against Norway due to the death of his mother. Portugal reaffirmed their World Cup credentials with a resounding 5-0 thrashing of Uzbekistan, a performance that saw Cristiano Ronaldo score twice. Ronaldo, who has been under scrutiny for his form, emphatically answered his critics by becoming the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments. Portugal defender João Cancelo stated that neither Ronaldo nor Neymar have anything left to prove on the world stage.

Norway, led by a brace from Erling Haaland, clinched their spot in the knockout stages with a 3-2 victory over Senegal at Met Life Stadium, 104. Haaland's stellar performance in this rain-swept match sets up a mouth-watering clash against France in the final group game, with both teams already qualified. Meanwhile, the USMNT's Tyler Adams is aware of the risk of suspension for the knockout rounds due to yellow card accumulation, though he remains committed to playing his usual aggressive style.

Mexico is enjoying a strong home World Cup, with players expressing support for veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa to start their final group match against Czechia, 16. The team's performance has fostered a sense of pride within the country, a stark contrast to their previous World Cup on home soil. The FIFA World Cup final is scheduled to be presented by U.S. President Donald Trump, as confirmed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Authorities have seized over 300 unauthorized drones at World Cup sites across the United States, underscoring ongoing security concerns.

Club Signings and Managerial Moves

In club news, Chelsea is reportedly close to signing Atalanta defender Marco Palestra for a fee exceeding £43 million. Manchester United and Arsenal are both reportedly tracking Alex Scott, with the Gunners also in contact with Leicester City regarding Jeremy Monga. Aston Villa has expressed strong interest in Jarrod Bowen. Atlético Madrid is reportedly furious with Barcelona, believing they are behind Julián Álvarez's desire to leave the club this summer, and they intend to refuse any transfer. Real Madrid has placed Manchester City striker Erling Haaland on their radar, with speculation that they might pursue him if certain conditions are met.

On the managerial front, former Arsenal and Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey has been appointed as the new head coach of Oxford United. Gary O'Neil has also been appointed as Ipswich's new manager on a three-year deal. Scott Phelan has been named permanent head coach of Everton Women after an interim spell. Former Scotland striker Kenny Miller has been appointed permanent head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv. Hearts are reportedly set to appoint Belgian head coach Wouter Vrancken as their new boss, 83. Alfred Johansson, the new Motherwell manager, expects his team to build on last season's success and play with intensity and tempo. Women's Football and Other News

In a landmark move for women's football, BK Hacken teenager Felicia Schroeder has joined Real Madrid in what is being described as the "most expensive transfer ever in women's football". Durham Women's future has been secured by South Shields co-owner Geoff Thompson, who has acquired a majority shareholding in the Women's Super League 2 club.

Australia continued their unbeaten run at the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with Ellyse Perry starring in their 113-run victory over Pakistan. Scotland, however, has been eliminated from the tournament after New Zealand secured a six-wicket win, ending Scotland's hopes of defending the title.

The PGA Tour will introduce promotion and relegation from its 2028 season as part of a significant restructuring of its format. In horse racing, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is set to be open to geldings for the first time from next year.