Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals and Finals Set

Spain have booked their spot in the 2026 World Cup final after a dominant 2-0 victory over France. Luis de la Fuente's side is "feeling unbeatable" heading into the championship match. In the other semifinal, Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat England 2-1. Lionel Messi provided the decisive assist in stoppage time to help Argentina reach their third World Cup final. Despite the loss, England captain Harry Kane admitted that holding onto a slim lead proved to be their undoing. The World Cup third-place play-off between England and France, as well as the final, will be shown live on BBC TV.

Player Performances and Transfer Buzz

Lionel Messi received a player rating of 9/10 for his crucial role in Argentina's semifinal win gets 9/10. Kylian Mbappé appeared to question Didier Deschamps' tactics following France's semifinal defeat. Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise is reportedly looking to make a move to Real Madrid this summer. Manchester United are active in the transfer market, with West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville a reported target. Rangers have agreed to a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder, while Celtic are reportedly listening to offers for their striker. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed with Fenerbahçe signed for Fenerbahçe.

Player News and Post-Match Reactions

Jude Bellingham reportedly slapped Argentina substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head following England's semifinal exit, sparking a melee sparks melee. Argentina defender Cristian Romero called pundit Gary Neville "stupid" for his criticism of the centre-back pairing with Lisandro Martinez. USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed his hurt over the backlash following their World Cup exit. Thomas Tuchel, England's coach, stated he will remain in his role despite the World Cup semi-final defeat. FIFA's director of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the referee's performance in the France vs. Spain semifinal after criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps.

Club and League Updates

Sam Kerr made her highly anticipated return for Gotham FC, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit in front of a record crowd makes return. Keylor Navas and Gilberto Mora will headline the Liga MX squad for the MLS All-Star Game on July 29. Hibernian will face Malisheva in the second round of Conference League qualifying after the Kosovan outfit defeated Vllaznia 6-2 on aggregate. Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer from Everton. Birmingham City have completed the signing of defender Millie Turner and midfielder Lisa Naalsund from Manchester United.

Historical Notes and Miscellaneous

Items from two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion Hope Solo's collection are heading to auction. England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles died with a brain condition linked to heading footballs, a coroner has ruled. The ICC has announced revamped structures for its men's World Cup tournaments, including new 'Super Series' and 'Super 7' rounds for next year's 50-over tournament. Cardiff City will appeal a French judge's decision to dismiss the club's claim for over £100m in compensation following Emiliano Sala's death.