Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinal Drama and Fallout

Argentina will face disciplinary action from FIFA for displaying an "inappropriate" banner regarding the Falklands Islands following their World Cup semifinal victory over England. The match itself, a dramatic 2-1 comeback win for Argentina, attracted an audience of 24 million on the BBC. Lionel Messi dedicated the win to the late Diego Maradona, and his performance was lauded with a 9/10 rating. England captain Harry Kane admitted that trying to hold onto a 1-0 lead backfired against Argentina's late surge. Coach Thomas Tuchel had considered man-marking Messi, and his tactics and future with the team remain under scrutiny despite FA backing. Jude Bellingham was involved in an incident where he slapped an Argentina substitute after the match. Meanwhile, France's semifinal defeat to Spain has led to questions about Didier Deschamps' era, with Kylian Mbappé appearing critical of the team's tactics. FIFA's director of refereeing defended the referee in the France-Spain match after criticism from Deschamps.

World Cup Post-Mortems and Future Prospects

As the World Cup nears its conclusion, analysis of teams' performances continues. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni pushed back against criticism of his team's play leading up to their semifinal clash. England's exit marks another semifinal disappointment, with questions about tactics and mentality persisting. The USMNT's World Cup journey is over, with goalkeeper Matt Freese expressing hurt over the backlash following their elimination. With 47 teams now eliminated, ESPN is providing grades for each team's run compared to expectations. The third-place play-off, though potentially unappealing, is highlighted as an event worth watching, and its impact on the Golden Boot race is being examined.

Transfer News and Squad Updates

In transfer news, midfielder Joao Gomes is reportedly close to a £38m move to Aston Villa from Wolves following their relegation. Newcastle United have signed Scotland defender Rachel McLauchlan from Brighton. Rangers have agreed a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder, while Celtic are reportedly listening to offers for strikers. Goalkeeper Marius Muller has joined Aberdeen from Wolfsburg, hoping to celebrate success. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe. Aston Villa have also confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer from Everton. Birmingham City have completed the signings of defender Millie Turner and midfielder Lisa Naalsund from Manchester United.

Player Retirements and Milestones

Goalkeeper Craig Gordon has announced his retirement from football at the age of, concluding a 25-year playing career. His retirement was also noted by Sky Sports. In the women's game, former Chelsea forward Sam Kerr made her second debut for Gotham FC in front of a record-breaking crowd in New York City. The NWSL match saw a record crowd for a women's sporting event in New York City.

Other Football Notes

Former Italian referee chief Gianluca Rocchi and his deputy Andrea Gervasoni have had a sports fraud case dismissed by Milan's public prosecutor. Cardiff City plans to appeal a French judge's decision to dismiss their £100m compensation claim following the death of Emiliano Sala. England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles died with a brain condition linked to heading footballs, a coroner has ruled.

Cricket and Other Sports

In cricket, the second one-day international between England and India is underway in Cardiff. Lando Norris will incur a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday.