Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 8:33 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Underway, Nations Vie for Semifinal Spots

The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals have begun, with only eight teams remaining in contention for the ultimate prize. France, despite being overwhelming favorites, are being scrutinized for potential weaknesses ahead of their clash with Morocco. Morocco, who are aiming for another deep run, face France in a rematch of a previous semifinal as they look to reach the last four. England will face Norway, with a key question being how Gareth Southgate's side plans to contain the threat of Erling Haaland as they prepare for the matchup. Meanwhile, Argentina's progress has been heavily reliant on Lionel Messi, who continues to carry his team. Egypt has raised concerns about perceived favoritism towards Argentina and Messi, alleging bias in refereeing decisions as they question the treatment.

The race for the World Cup Golden Boot is heating up, with Lionel Messi currently leading the scoring charts. Several players are walking a disciplinary tightrope, with four England players at risk of missing a potential semifinal due to yellow card accumulation as they are on a disciplinary tightrope. FIFA chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina has defended the officials, stating that nobody can question the integrity of World Cup referees. France has failed in their attempt to have forward Michael Olise's yellow card overturned, and Morocco will be without Ismael Saibari for their quarterfinal match. Ayyoub Bouaddi, who rejected France to play for Morocco, now finds his decision coming full circle as the two nations face off as he aims to make an impact.

Club Football Buzz: Transfer Rumors and Stadium Developments

In the transfer market, North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly targeting RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa. Manchester United are facing a dilemma regarding Marcus Rashford's future, while also agreeing to a £50 million deal with Chelsea for midfielder Andrey Santos as they secure a new signing. Chelsea has also announced the £40 million acquisition of Sporting winger Geovany Quenda. Barcelona has shortlisted Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi, and Fenerbahce is growing confident of signing Mason Greenwood from Marseille. Celtic is reportedly pursuing a Scottish striker in Italy and an Egyptian winger in Spain, while a newly promoted Premier League side. Leeds has completed a free transfer for Harry Wilson following his departure from Fulham as they add to their ranks.

Manchester United has unveiled plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium. In Scotland, the summer transfer window sees movement for clubs like Hearts, with newly promoted sides making moves. Scottish Premiership clubs are active in the market, with ins and outs being confirmed. Former Sheffield United owners are claiming they are owed over £35 million, filing a winding-up petition against the current owners. Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes has informed the club of his desire to join Arsenal as he seeks a transfer. Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn has signed for the San Jose Earthquakes after being released by Nottingham Forest as he moves to the MLS.

Other Sports News: Tennis, Golf, and Individual Achievements

Jack Draper to action at the DC Open in Washington after an injury layoff. In golf, Lottie Woad at the Amundi Evian Championship, while Nelly Korda experienced a difficult opening day. Dame Sarah Storey from competitive sport, concluding a career that established her as Great Britain's most successful Paralympian. Beau Greaves by becoming the first woman to qualify for a European Tour event, achieving this feat twice. The R&A has introduced a new fan code of conduct for The Open at Royal Birkdale to curb misbehavior.