Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama

The FIFA World Cup round of 16 delivered a series of dramatic upsets and memorable performances, with Argentina's thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt dominating headlines. Lionel Messi was again the central figure, dragging his team to another final with a display that left the global sports community in awe sports world was thrilled. Despite a late surge from Egypt, who were two goals down with little time remaining, Argentina secured their quarter-final berth. Egypt's manager, Hossam Hassan, slammed the officiating, claiming the tournament was "directed towards Argentina," a sentiment that contrasted sharply with the widespread admiration for Messi's individual brilliance and the team's resilience.

Switzerland also advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, defeating Colombia 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout in Vancouver. The Swiss held their nerve to end Colombian hopes, setting up a quarter-final clash with the reigning World Cup champions, Argentina meeting with World Cup holders Argentina. Meanwhile, the United States' World Cup journey concluded with a significant impact on the betting markets. Their run to the knockout stages generated record betting handle, allowing American sportsbooks to profit handsomely as their home tournament ended. The U.S. team's final match against Belgium, a 4-1 defeat, also became the most-watched soccer game in U.S. history. Belgium midfielder Nicolas Raskin commented that beating the U.S. was "justice" after a controversial situation involving Folarin Balogun Belgium say beating U.S..

The tournament also marked the likely end of an era for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose Portugal side was eliminated 1-0 by Spain in the round of. Ronaldo, who had stated this would be his final World Cup, exited in tears, reflecting on his career with a "clear conscience" Ronaldo exits tears. Manager Roberto Martinez confirmed his departure from the Portugal coaching role, though he denied the result constituted "a failure" Martinez steps down. Elsewhere, Spain's midfield general Rodri was named player of the match in their victory over Portugal but acknowledged that the team still has "room for improvement" ahead of the quarterfinals MVP Rodri shines.

Managerial Moves and Club News

In managerial news, Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed head coach at Fulham, signing a three-year contract to succeed Marco Silva, who departed for Benfica Fulham appoint Arbeloa. The former Real Madrid defender takes the reins at Craven Cottage Arbeloa appointed new Fulham. Meanwhile, the U.S. Women's National League saw a significant development with Gotham FC announcing they will share a new stadium in Queens, New York, starting in 2028. This move will place the reigning NWSL champions within New York City limits for the first time.

Transfer rumors continue to swirl, with Liverpool reportedly making contact over a move for Mexican wonderkid Gilberto Mora Liverpool ahead Man Unit. Arsenal have identified Morgan Rogers as their primary transfer target Arsenal make Morgan Rogers their main target, while also being linked with a free transfer move for former Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier sign former Leeds goalkeeper. Chelsea midfielder Julia Bartel is nearing a move to Juventus Chelsea's Bartel closing move.

Youth Development and Player Welfare

The structure of youth soccer in the United States has come under scrutiny, with a focus on parents' ability to pay for travel matches rather than on young player development. This pay-to-play model is being examined in the context of the U.S. team's World Cup performance. In other player news, Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the World Cup due to an ACL injury suffered while playing for Belgium Belgium's Onana out. England players have been advised to be cautious after Jordan Henderson suffered a freak injury jumping over advertising hoardings England players to get.

Other Football News

The LA Galaxy has sent attacker Gabriel Pec to Brazilian side Cruzeiro for a club-record fee. Amidst various controversies, FIFA has opened an investigation into allegations of racist abuse involving social media influencer IShow Speed and a supporter during Argentina's win over Cape Verde Fifa investigating alleged racist. La Liga president Javier Tebas has criticized what he terms the "complicit silence" surrounding FIFA in the wake of the Folarin Balogun controversy La Liga chief critical.