Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Deliver Drama and Disappointment

Argentina secured dramatic over England in the World Cup semifinals, advancing to the final thanks to a decisive cross from Lionel Messi, who earned a 9/10 rating for his performance. Messi's impact was so significant that manager Lionel Scaloni has focused on unlocking his goal-scoring potential throughout the tournament. England captain Harry Kane admitted their strategy of holding onto a 1-0 lead backfired, contributing to their exit. Manager Thomas Tuchel, however, has vowed to remain as England head coach and lead them into Euro 2028 despite the semifinal loss. The sports world was captivated by the thrilling finish, with many expressing their excitement over Argentina's victory The sports world was thrilled. Argentina now faces a potential FIFA fine for displaying a Falklands banner during their celebrations.

Spain booked their with a convincing 2-0 victory over France, leaving Kylian Mbappé critical of his team's tactics in the loss. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente declared his team is "feeling unbeatable" heading into the championship match. The French media delivered a stark assessment of their national team's performance following the semifinal exit The French media delivered. FIFA's director of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the referee's performance in the France-Spain semifinal after facing criticism from French coach Didier Deschamps. Didier Deschamps' tenure with France will conclude with the third-place playoff, a farewell game that few would have desired.

Player News and Transfer Buzz

Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte has undergone knee surgery after sustaining an injury during the World Cup. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has officially signed with Fenerbahçe, marking his third club in three years. West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville is reportedly a target for Manchester United, while Arsenal is preparing an offer for Norway winger Antonio Nusa Summerville is a target. Birmingham City has completed the signings of defender Millie Turner and midfielder Lisa Naalsund from Manchester United. Aston Villa has confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer from Everton. Midfielder Harry Winks has departed Leicester City to join Italian side Cagliari for an undisclosed fee. Bournemouth is in discussions to sign Benfica and Portugal defender Antonio Silva as a replacement for Marcos Senesi. Rangers are reportedly in talks with Leicester over winger Mavididi.

MLS and Beyond

Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas, a three-time World Cup participant, will headline the Liga MX squad for the MLS All-Star Game on July 29 in Chicago. New Chicago Fire signing Robert Lewandowski stated he could not envision playing for another European club after his spell with Barcelona, explaining his move to MLS. The ICC has announced restructured formats for its men's World Cup tournaments, including new 'Super Series' and 'Super 7' rounds for next year's 50-over tournament.

Club and League Matters

Newly promoted Women's Super League club Crystal Palace has signed striker Bethany England on a free transfer. London City Lionesses have secured France forward Kadidiatou Diani from Lyon on a three-year deal for over £500,000. Hibernian will face Kosovan side Malisheva in the second round of Conference League qualifying after Malisheva defeated Albanian side Vllaznia 6-2 on aggregate. Coventry City is nearing a deal worth over £17 million for Eintracht Frankfurt defender Aurele Amenda. Cardiff City intends to appeal a French judge's decision to dismiss the club's claim for over £100 million in compensation following the death of Emiliano Sala. Morecambe has become the first club to face action from the independent football regulator after their owners failed to respond to information requests.