Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals and Knockout Stage Buzz

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up as the quarterfinal matchups begin, with Morocco set to face France in a highly anticipated clash. BBC Sport experts are weighing in on France's chances, exploring potential weaknesses in the overwhelming favorites. Meanwhile, Morocco's journey to this stage is framed as a question of whether they are football's dreamers or have truly earned their place. FIFA chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina has defended the integrity of World Cup officials, stating that decision-making is not influenced by external factors Collina stated. France will be without Ismael Saibari due to injury, while their attempt to overturn Michael Olise's yellow card failed. England players received a day off to recharge after their victory over Mexico.

International Team News and Managerial Moves

Steve Cherundolo has been named the manager of the U.S. U-23 national team for the 2028 Olympics Cherundolo has been. Rafael Márquez is taking the helm as the new head coach of the Mexican national team, leading them up to the 2030 World Cup Márquez is taking. Zlatko Dalić has stepped down as Croatia's boss following their World Cup exit Dalić has stepped. Portugal's Football Federation is reportedly targeting Jorge Jesus as the successor to Roberto Martinez Portugal are targeting. Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn has signed with the San Jose Earthquakes after being released by Nottingham Forest Gunn has signed.

Transfer Activity and Club Signings

Arsenal has secured the signing of former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer Arsenal have secured. Celtic is reportedly close to signing Colombian forward Camilo Duran from Qarabag for a reported £5.5 million Celtic is reportedly. Newcastle United has made a significant move by signing teenager Sean Steur from Ajax for up to £23 million. Barcelona has made an offer for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi as they aim to strengthen their attack Barcelona has made. Chelsea has announced the £40 million signing of Sporting winger Geovany Quenda, who aims to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo's career path Chelsea has announced. Manchester United has agreed to a £50 million deal with Chelsea for midfielder Andrey Santos. Leeds has completed a deal to sign Harry Wilson on a free transfer after his departure from Fulham Leeds has completed. Fenerbahce is reportedly growing confident about signing Mason Greenwood from Marseille Fenerbahce is reportedly.

Player Movements and Contract News

Alexia Putellas has stated that joining London City Lionesses presents the "biggest challenge" of her career Putellas has stated. Aurélien Tchouaméni has agreed to a new contract with Real Madrid, keeping him at the club until 2031 Tchouaméni has agreed. Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes has informed the club of his desire to join Arsenal Guimaraes has informed. Manchester United faces a dilemma regarding Marcus Rashford's future.

League and Stadium Development News

Sunderland Women are poised to appoint James Gray as their new chief executive officer following the club's recent takeover. Manchester United has revealed the location for their proposed new 100,000-seater stadium, situated approximately 350 meters northwest of Old Trafford. NWSL games held at baseball stadiums are setting attendance records, a trend that follows an infamous viral incident.

Player Performances and Awards

Lionel Messi is leading the race for the World Cup Golden Boot Messi is leading. The race for the Golden Boot is shaping up to be one for the ages. Lottie Woad has made a strong start to her bid for a maiden major title at the Amundi Evian Championship, while Nelly Korda experienced a difficult opening day Woad has made. Jack Draper is set to make a quick return to action at the DC Open in Washington after missing Wimbledon due to injury Draper is set.

Other Football News

The inquest into the death of Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack has been adjourned again until December 7. The former owners of Sheffield United have filed a winding-up petition against the current owners, claiming they are owed over £35 million.