Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

World Cup Knockout Stage Drama and Player Pedigree

Spain advanced to the semifinals of the World Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Belgium. Midfielder Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in the 86th minute, coming off the bench to secure the win. Despite boasting young talent like Lamine Yamal, Spain has relied on unlikely heroes to progress through the tournament. Belgium's World Cup campaign ended with a costly error from Senne Lammens, potentially signaling the close of their "golden generation" of players. France, led by Kylian Mbappé in the semifinals by defeating Morocco. Mbappé has been described as "perhaps the best player in the world right now." England, meanwhile, received a triple injury boost ahead of their quarter-final clash with Norway, with Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James all returning to training. England captain Harry Kane believes his team is ready to "peak in the World Cup's latter stages" and downplayed comparisons with Erling Haaland. Norway's tactical approach and player development, including the use of artificial turf and collaborative coaching, have been credited with building their current generation of talent.

Club Transfers and Managerial Moves

In the transfer market, Manchester City completed the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City. Chelsea is reportedly prepared to sell Alejandro Garnacho for £50 million this summer, favoring a permanent transfer over a loan. Barcelona is nearing a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi, with sources confirming a breakthrough in negotiations. Former Manchester United player Mason Greenwood is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid as he looks for his next club according to sources. In managerial news, Jürgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation. Burnley has appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year contract.

Tragic Farewells and Tennis Triumphs

The football world mourns the loss of South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who died at the age of 25. Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates also passed away at 94 as announced by the club. On the tennis court, Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara with a straight-sets victory. Britain's Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid secured their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title together on Saturday. Novak Djokovic expressed his desire to return to Wimbledon "at least one more time" in a post-match interview. Jannik Sinner is favored to retain his Wimbledon title in his upcoming final against Alexander Zverev, having won their last nine meetings.

Cricket and Other Sports News

In cricket, Sophie Ecclestone became England Women's leading wicket-taker across all formats as the hosts dismissed India for 285 on the opening day of the Test match at Lord's. England is on the verge of becoming the world's top-ranked T20 side after a strong performance. Golf saw Haeran Ryu shoot the lowest round in major championship history at the Amundi Evian Championship, carding a 60 to take a three-shot lead.