Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Set for Intense Showdowns

England faces Norway in a highly anticipated World Cup quarterfinal match, with Norway's boss Stale Solbakken stating England are favorites to reach the semifinals. Star striker Erling Haaland is identified as England's primary threat, but Harry Kane has downplayed comparisons to the Norwegian. England received an injury boost with Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James all recovering ahead of the clash. However, sources indicate Guehi is nursing a hamstring issue that could sideline him. The match will be played in Miami's heat, presenting an unknown challenge for England. Meanwhile, Spain advanced to the semifinals after Mikel Merino scored a late winner against Belgium. Merino, who has become an unlikely hero, waited until the 86th minute to score the decisive goal. Spain's Lamine Yamal believes France should be wary of their team in the upcoming semifinal. Belgium's World Cup journey ended following a mistake by Senne Lammens, raising questions about the future of their golden generation. Norway's success is attributed to artificial turf, gambling investment, and a collaborative coaching approach that fostered a golden generation of players.

Club Transfer Rumors and Signings Abound

Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. The club's pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson is also in doubt, with a £35 million deal facing uncertainty. Barcelona is nearing an agreement to sign Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, according to sources. Mason Greenwood, currently under contract with Marseille, is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid. Arsenal has confirmed the signing of Ona Batlle from Barcelona on a free transfer. West Ham United has secured the services of forward Ebony Salmon on a two-year deal after her departure from Aston Villa. Manchester City has signed Niamh Charles from Chelsea for a reported three-year deal. Aberdeen has sold Topi Keskinen to Odense following a "very good offer". Burnley has appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year contract.

Player News and Managerial Movements

Mohamed Salah's financial demands are reportedly causing Saudi clubs to hesitate on a potential transfer. Kylian Mbappé is seen as a primary reason for France's favoritism in the World Cup. Jürgen Klopp revealed that Liverpool held talks with Mbappé about a potential move in 2017, describing it as the "most expensive non-transfer" the club was involved in. Thomas Tuchel claimed England has not received an explanation for defender Jarell Quansah's two-game suspension after his red card against Mexico. Michael Edwards has departed his role as CEO of football for Fenway Sports Group, which owns Liverpool. England has established new behavioral guidelines for its players. An incident involving a man carrying a wrench at the England media center is under review by the Football Association. An inquest will be held into the death of Nobby Stiles, with a coroner finding injuries consistent with repeated head trauma.

Other Sports and Racing Updates

In horse racing, More Thunder and Zeus Olympios are set to compete at Ascot. Blue Bolt maintained its undefeated streak this season with a victory at Newmarket. The Belgian Grand Prix begins the final double-header before Formula 1's summer break. Novak Djokovic expressed his desire to return to Wimbledon at least one more time. Jannik Sinner eliminated Djokovic in the Wimbledon semi-finals, ending his bid for a record-equalling eighth title. Arthur Fery is looking towards the US Open after his Wimbledon performance. Wigan's young players defeated Warrington in a Super League match. Sophie Ecclestone became England Women's leading wicket-taker across all formats during a Test match against India at Lord's. England is on the verge of becoming the world's No. 1 T20 side.