Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinal Showdowns and Managerial Musings

Spain have in the 2026 World Cup final after a 2-0 victory over France, with manager Luis de la Fuente stating the team is "feeling unbeatable". France's head coach Didier Deschamps admitted his team "wasn't good enough to beat Spain", with Kylian Mbappé appearing to question Deschamps' tactics following the semifinal defeat. French media delivered a "frank assessment" of the national team's performance. Meanwhile, England manager Thomas Tuchel has considered man-marking Lionel Messi in their upcoming World Cup semifinal against Argentina. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni stated his team is "not as bad" as some critics suggest and emphasized he will "not mix" politics with football ahead of the match. Wayne Rooney has previewed the England-Argentina clash and believes Jude Bellingham has been the "best player at the World Cup so far". Harry Kane urged England to avoid focusing on past history with Argentina, emphasizing "complete togetherness" within the squad. The rivalry between England and Argentina is deeply rooted, with Argentina singing. American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate the England vs. Argentina semifinal.

The coaching landscape for the USMNT is also under scrutiny, with speculation about Mauricio. ESPN Soccer presents a list of 11 potential coaches the U.S. Soccer Federation could. USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed that criticism following their World Cup elimination "hurts my heart". The team's struggles in the tournament are complex, and perhaps not fixable solely by overhauling. Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency, Klutch Sports, following a. Juventus are reportedly considering a move for Balogun.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Activity

Manchester United are actively working on their summer transfer window plans, with more signings anticipated. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are all interested in Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup. Arsenal are reportedly considering a swap deal involving Viktor Gyokeres. Barcelona remains keen on signing Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, potentially increasing their offer after. Rangers are in talks with Leicester City over a potential transfer for winger. Leeds United have agreed to a £34.1m fee for defender Tarik Muharemovic. Bournemouth have announced the signing of striker Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for up to £25.7m. Chelsea have agreed to a deal worth around £850,000 to sign Manchester United striker Melvine Malard. Arsenal have secured the signing of German forward Lisa Baum from. Manchester City are showing interest in Lille.

Women's Football Signings and League Cup Upsets

London City Lionesses have signed France forward Kadidiatou Diani from Lyon on a three-year deal for more. Everton have signed French forward Noemie Mouchon on a free transfer. In the Scottish League Cup, Dundee United and Falkirk suffered defeats to lower-league opponents, putting their progression hopes in doubt.

Other Sports News and Notes

In horse racing, Maltese Cross secured the Grand Prix de Paris title for trainer William Haggas. The Formula 1 title battle is shaping up to be thrilling as the season nears its halfway point. In cricket, Shubman Gill's 80 propelled India to a six-wicket victory over England in the first ODI at Edgbaston. Stuart Broad believes England should trial an extra seamer in cricket, with the Cricket World Cup over a year away. The potential new England Test coach faces the task of replacing Ben Stokes and addressing team culture. Golfers Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are dismissing legacy concerns ahead of The Open. Police are investigating the death of South African World Cup player Jayden Adams.