Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

World Cup Quarterfinals Underway, France Advances

France has secured a spot in the semifinals, defeating Morocco 2-0 in their quarterfinal match. Kylian Mbappé after sustaining a "knock on his ankle," stating he is "all good." The French team, already two-time World Cup winners to win the 2026 competition. Mbappé, considered by many to be the best player in the world, was instrumental in the win alongside Ousmane Dembélé, whose goals kept France in contention. Despite a penalty miss by Mbappé, the stuttering run-up has raised questions about the technique. Meanwhile, Norway striker Erling Haaland, suggesting the pressure is on England for their upcoming quarterfinal clash. England defender Marc Guehi and may miss that match against Norway. The tournament has seen intense competition, with individual superstars like Mbappé and Lionel Messi. The World Cup has been described as one of the most fascinating tournaments in recent memory, largely due to the performances of these two players who are shaping the narrative.

Club Transfers and Team News

In club news, American forward Cole Campbell from Borussia Dortmund. Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2031. Barcelona has made an offer for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi to bolster their attack. Tottenham has reportedly made an offer for Randal Kolo Muani, though Juventus is considered the favorite to sign the forward. Arsenal is also looking to finalize a deal for Christos Tzolis, while Marcus Rashford's future at Barcelona remains uncertain. In defense, Crystal Palace has signed Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer. Manchester United is close to signing former Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer, and the club has also revealed the location for their proposed new 100,000-seater stadium which is part of their expansion plans. Newcastle has signed Ajax midfielder Sean Steur for £23m. Celtic is reportedly pursuing a deal for Colombian forward Camilo Duran from Qarabag for a reported £5.5m.

Other Football News and Player Updates

Christian Eriksen, the Denmark star in his home country after another on-field collapse. The United States confirmed that forward Christian Pulisic fractured his leg during their World Cup defeat against Belgium. Following his red card in the World Cup last-16 victory over Mexico, England defender Jarell Quansah has been banned for two matches. In coaching news, the U.S. Soccer Federation has named former United States international Steve Cherundolo as the manager of the U.S. U-23 national team for the 2028 Olympics marking a new chapter for the program. Rafael Márquez has taken over as the head coach of the Mexican national team, leading them up to the 2030 World Cup as the federation announced. The USMNT's World Cup performance has been graded, with the team. The pay-to-play model in youth soccer is being cited as a reason for America's World Cup losses as development takes a backseat to cost.