Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals and Knockout Stages

Switzerland secured a historic quarterfinal berth by overcoming Colombia 4-3 in a penalty shootout, breaking a long-standing shootout "curse" as manager Murat Yakin expressed delight. They now face a daunting challenge against tournament favorites Argentina, who completed an epic comeback against Egypt thanks to a Lionel Messi masterclass. Messi, who is dragging his team to another final, was emotional after the win, with teammate Lautaro Martinez urging him to enjoy his "last World Cup" in a moment of shared sentiment. Egypt's coach fumed at the officiating, claiming the World Cup was "directed towards Argentina" following their dramatic exit, while also alleging favoritism and "injustice" as per BBC Sport Football.

Spain eliminated Cristiano Ronaldo from what is understood to be his final World Cup, with a late goal securing a 1-0 victory in the round of. An emotional Ronaldo stated he had a "clear conscience" as he exited the tournament, while manager Roberto Martinez confirmed his departure from the Portugal coaching role without labeling the loss a failure. Spain midfielder Rodri, named man of the match in their win, acknowledged that while he was pleased with his individual performance, the team still has "room for improvement" ahead of their quarterfinal clash. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni noted that there is "no truly dominant team" at this World Cup as favorites struggle against lower-ranked opponents.

Player Departures and Managerial Moves

Álvaro Arbeloa has been appointed the new head coach at Fulham, succeeding Marco Silva on a three-year contract. He leaves Real Madrid after his departure last season. Elsewhere, Liam Rosenior has returned to management, taking the helm at Ligue 1 club Paris FC after his sacking from Chelsea. Burnley are also progressing in talks to appoint Nicky Hayen, the current Genk head coach, to fill their managerial vacancy as per BBC Sport Football.

United States' World Cup Exit and Reactions

The United States' World Cup campaign concluded with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the round of. The match set a record as the most-watched soccer telecast in U.S. history, with preliminary ratings indicating significant viewership. Belgium midfielder Nicolas Raskin commented that "there's always justice somewhere in life" following their victory, with some Belgian players appearing to mock former U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA after the Americans' elimination. Manager Mauricio Pochettino expressed disappointment with those who introduced "politics and manipulation" into the game during the U.S. exit, while his future with the national team remains uncertain as he remained mum on his plans.

Youth Development and Financial Matters

The focus on pay-to-play youth soccer in America is raising concerns, with the emphasis shifting towards parents' ability to fund travel matches rather than on the core development of young players according to ESPN Soccer. The United States men's team earned U.S. Soccer $16 million in prize money from FIFA for reaching the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, a sum that will be split equally with the women's team as part of a new agreement. The U.S. team's early exit led to record betting handle, allowing American sportsbooks to profit substantially as per ESPN Soccer.

FIFA and European Parliament Scrutiny

Dozens of European lawmakers are reportedly preparing to support an investigation into FIFA president Gianni Infantino within the European Parliament. La Liga president Javier Tebas has also criticized the "complicit silence" surrounding FIFA in the wake of various controversies. FIFA has also opened an investigation into alleged racist abuse directed at American social media influencer IShow Speed during Argentina's victory over Cape Verde as reported by BBC Sport Football.

Club Transfers and Player News

Liverpool have reportedly made contact regarding a move for Mexican wonderkid Gilberto Mora as part of transfer rumors. Arsenal are said to be targeting Morgan Rogers as their primary transfer objective according to BBC Sport Football, while also being in talks to sign former Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer as per Sky Sports Champions League. Chelsea midfielder Julia Bartel is nearing a summer move to Italian club Juventus as reported by BBC Sport Football. The LA Galaxy have transferred attacker Gabriel Pec to Brazilian side Cruzeiro for a club-record fee as announced by the MLS side.

Other Football Notes

Switzerland's victory over Colombia marked their first penalty shootout success against the South American side as they broke Colombian hearts. Jude Bellingham's performance against Mexico has drawn comparisons to England legends Steven Gerrard and Roy Keane according to Wayne Rooney. The new Champions League campaign is set to commence shortly after the previous season's final with many unheralded clubs involved. The New Saints face a challenge in their Champions League qualifying tie after a 2-0 first-leg defeat in Azerbaijan as per BBC Sport Football.