Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals and Semifinal Matchups

Spain secured a spot in the semifinals with a narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium, thanks to a late winner from Mikel Merino. Merino, who came off the bench in the 86th minute, has been an unlikely hero for Spain, having also scored the winner against Portugal in a previous match. Despite the win, the Spanish attack, often expected to feature Lamine Yamal, has relied on midfield contributions, with Yamal still waiting for his defining performance on the grand stage. Belgium's World Cup campaign ended with Senne Lammens' crucial error, potentially signaling the end of their "golden generation" of players. Lammens' mistake led to Spain's progression, with key moments and player ratings reflecting the tight contest that ensued.

Norway's talisman Erling Haaland is seen as the avatar for his nation in the tournament, with artificial turf, investment, and a collaborative coaching philosophy credited with building their current generation of players for success. England, on the other hand, face Norway in their quarterfinal amidst a risk of thunderstorms and high temperatures in Miami, a scenario that could impact the game's dynamics considerably. England's manager, Stale Solbakken, believes England are the favorites to reach the semifinals of the tournament. There's a boost for England's lineup as Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James have returned from injuries ahead of the match. England captain Harry Kane has downplayed comparisons with Haaland, stating that England are ready to peak in the latter stages of the World Cup they are contesting.

Christian Pulisic, the USMNT's star, did not meet expectations at this World Cup, failing to deliver in what was seen as his prime moment on home soil, for reasons yet to be fully explained by analysts. The U.S. team's performance is being graded, with assessments suggesting they did well in early stages but ultimately failed the final exam of the competition. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi's continued struggles from the penalty spot have raised questions about whether Argentina should reconsider his role as penalty taker, despite his ongoing World Cup record-breaking feats for his nation. Lamine Yamal has expressed confidence that France should fear Spain ahead of their semifinal clash, setting the stage for a significant encounter.

Club Signings and Transfer Rumors

Coventry City have signed winger Loum Tchaouna from relegated Burnley for an undisclosed fee, bolstering their squad for the upcoming season. Manchester United are reportedly interested in Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill, according to transfer rumors circulating in the market. Manchester City have completed the signing of young winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City, adding to their youth prospects for development. Former Manchester United player Mason Greenwood is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid, as he weighs his options while under contract with Marseille through 2029, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Barcelona are nearing a deal to sign Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, with a breakthrough in negotiations reported by sources. Mohamed Salah's financial demands are reportedly putting off Saudi clubs, while Bayern Munich have rejected Real Madrid's move for Michael Olise, and Barcelona have agreed to sign Adeyemi, alongside other transfer gossip from the week. Manchester United's pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson is in doubt, with the club facing potential difficulties in completing the £35 million deal as reported. Rangers have completed the signing of midfielder Cammy Devlin after his departure from Hearts, and Celtic are reportedly in talks regarding Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi as well.

Chelsea are looking to offload Alejandro Garnacho permanently this summer, preferring a sale over a loan, and are seeking a fee of 50 million euros (£42.6 million). Bournemouth defender Alex Jimenez is set for a loan move to Fiorentina while his club investigates social media allegations against him. Wales defender Tom Lockyer has agreed to join Australian A-League side Melbourne Victory next season. Ona Batlle will join Arsenal upon the expiry of her contract with Barcelona this summer, as has been announced by the club.

Cricket, Rugby, and Other Sports News

England's women's cricket team is facing an immense challenge to avoid defeat at Lord's after India dominated the second day of their historic first-ever Women's Test match at the venue. India's Smriti Mandhana continued her strong performance, hitting another fifty and extending India's lead over England past 220 runs in the match. However, England later secured a 56-run victory against India, propelling them to the top of the world rankings in the sport. In rugby, Steve Borthwick's England men's team snapped a five-match losing streak with a commanding 73-8 thrashing of a 14-player Fiji side in the Nations Championship held in Liverpool. One commentator described England's performance against Fiji as a "clinic," with Pollock scoring a hat-trick and imitating Jude Bellingham's goal celebration during the game.

In rugby league, Leigh Leopards secured a crucial 24-18 victory over Castleford Tigers, keeping their Betfred Super League play-off hopes alive. On the tennis court, Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara claimed their second Wimbledon men's doubles title with a straight-sets win, while Britain's Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid captured their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title together on Saturday.

Obits and Managerial Moves

Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates, a significant and controversial figure in English football, has died at the age of 94 as reported. Jürgen Klopp has reportedly agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, following the resignation of Julian Nagelsmann from the post.

Horse Racing and Golf

Jockey Billy Loughnane continued his exceptional season by steering Comanche Brave to victory in the Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai July Cup Stakes at Newmarket this past weekend. In golf, Haeran Ryu shot the lowest round in major championship history at the Amundi Evian Championship, carding a 60 on Saturday to take a three-shot lead heading into the final round of the tournament.

Other News

South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of; he featured in all three of his country's group matches at this summer's World Cup as a player. Pubs will be allowed to stay open for the full duration of Norway's World Cup game, even if the kick-off is delayed by weather. England captain Harry Kane described playing golf with former U.S. President Donald Trump as a "surreal" experience he recalled.