Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 4, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Heats Up

France secured a 1-0 victory over a resilient Paraguay in a tense World Cup last-16 encounter in Philadelphia. Kylian Mbappe's 70th-minute penalty proved decisive, setting up a quarter-final clash with a formidable Morocco side that has proven their contender status with an unbeaten run of 34 matches. Meanwhile, England faces a challenging test against Mexico, with Reece James a doubt for the tie due to injury, though Jarell Quansah is available again amidst selection headaches. The Three Lions' preparations have also been complicated by travel issues and local reception in Mexico City adding to the pressure.

Argentina survived a scare against Cape Verde in a dramatic round of 32 match, with Lionel Messi admitting his team has "many things to correct" after the 3-2 extra-time win. Colombia advanced to the last 16 with a 1-0 victory over Ghana, setting up a tie with Switzerland, while Egypt made World Cup history with their first knockout stage win after defeating Australia on penalties, leaving the Socceroos with renewed questions after another early exit. Mohamed Salah was central to Egypt's success, driving their campaign forward.

The USMNT faces Belgium in the round of 16 without Folarin Balogun, who described his recent suspension as an "emotional roller coaster" following his controversial sending off. In other World Cup news, 15-year-old Indian cricketer Sooryavanshi made his debut against England at Old Trafford, a historic moment despite England securing a four-wicket win in the second T20 international. Jacob Bethell's unbeaten 76 was instrumental in England's victory.

Rugby and Rugby League Action

Scotland kicked off their Nations Championship campaign with an impressive 47-38 away win over Argentina, banishing recent poor form. In contrast, South Africa asserted their dominance with a brutal 45-21 victory over an injury-hit England in Johannesburg, with George Furbank out due to appendicitis. Ireland also secured a madcap 33-31 comeback win against Australia in Sydney, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the new competition.

In rugby league, Toulouse Olympique claimed bragging rights in the French derby, thrashing Catalan Dragons 60-18 with 10 tries, significantly denting the Dragons' play-off aspirations. Leigh Leopards bolstered their own play-off bid with a dominant 24-6 victory over Warrington Wolves at the Magic Weekend, while Hull KR completed a 26-12 derby triumph against Hull FC on the opening day of the event Hill Dickinson Stadium. The Giants, however, suffered their 10th straight defeat, falling 36-24 to York Knights in the weekend's opening fixture.

Transfer Rumors and Club Moves

Premier League clubs are reportedly monitoring Bournemouth's Alex Scott, with a quartet of top-flight sides keen on the midfielder. Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo is also attracting interest from Real Madrid. In defence, Arsenal are rumoured to be considering a £130 million move for Crystal Palace's Ismaïla Sarr, while Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Bayern Munich have been alerted to the potential availability of Barcelona's Jules Kounde amidst other transfer news.

Newcastle United considers Bruno Guimaraes "priceless" amid ongoing transfer speculation surrounding the midfielder. Celtic are reportedly close to signing Qarabag forward Camilo Duran following fresh talks, and Fenerbahce has completed the signing of Netherlands defender Nathan Ake from Manchester City for a deal potentially worth up to £8.5m in a notable transfer. Chicago Fire FC centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi is attracting interest from Nottingham Forest, though no concrete offers have been tabled according to sources.

Motorsport and Horse Racing

Formula 1 chief Stefano Domenicali has expressed hope of restoring a cancelled race to the 2026 calendar. At the British Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli passed pole-sitter Lewis Hamilton to win the Sprint race and extend his championship lead. Hamilton hopes to work with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc to "topple" Antonelli in the main Grand Prix. Max Verstappen, however, stated there is "no point competing" if Red Bull cannot resolve an identified top-speed issue hindering his performance.

In horse racing, Constitution River further enhanced his reputation with a dominant win in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown. Elmonjed is targeting riches at Deauville, with flat action also scheduled from Saratoga on a busy day of racing live on Sky Sports Racing.

Other Sports News

Serena Williams has withdrawn from Wimbledon doubles due to a knee injury, failing to recover in time. England's cricketers are one victory away from achieving their own "Lionesses and Red Roses moment" as they aim for a final. Meanwhile, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup final is available to stream for free on the Sky Sports App and skysports.com offering broad access. In the NWSL, Trinity Rodman scored a stoppage-time winner to lead the Washington Spirit to a 2-1 victory over the Houston Dash.