Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Semifinal Drama and Fallout

Argentina has advanced to the World Cup final after a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, a result that saw Lionel Messi provide the decisive assist in stoppage time. Messi dedicated the win to the late Diego Maradona, and his performance earned him a 9/10 rating. The match, which drew an audience of 24 million viewers on the BBC, has led to significant discussion about England's tactics and mentality. Captain Harry Kane admitted that trying to hold a 1-0 lead backfired Kane admitted trying to hold on to a 1-0 lead backfired, while Jude Bellingham was involved in a post-match altercation, slapping an Argentina substitute. Argentina now faces disciplinary action from Fifa for a banner supporting their claims to the Falkland Islands, though the team has been criticized as "inappropriate" for the display. France's World Cup hopes were dashed by Spain in a 2-0 semifinal defeat, with Kylian Mbappé expressing criticism of his team's tactics. FIFA has defended the referee in the France-Spain match after criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps.

England's World Cup Exit and Future Questions

England's World Cup campaign ended in the semifinals for the third time in recent history, prompting questions about the team's long-term direction and the role of manager Thomas Tuchel. Despite the defeat, Tuchel retains the backing of the Football Association and vows to remain in charge for Euro 2028 and vows stay. However, some pundits, like Gary Neville, suggest England has faced similar issues for years and he never expected a tournament win. England players are being rated for their performances in the semifinal loss, and the team has been reminded to "hold heads high" by Prince William. The BBC will broadcast both the World Cup third-place play-off between England and France and the final live.

Club Signings and Transfer Rumors

Birmingham City has signed French defender Jade Rastocle from Montpellier for an undisclosed fee. Arsenal has agreed a deal with Club Brugge for Greek winger Christos Tzolis, who is seen as a potential replacement for Leandro Trossard. In other transfer news, Joao Gomes is reportedly set to leave Wolves for Aston Villa in a £38 million deal. Manchester United is reportedly targeting West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville, while Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe from Marseille. Rangers have agreed a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder, and goalkeeper Marius Muller has joined Aberdeen from Wolfsburg. WSL 2 side Newcastle United has signed defender Rachel McLauchlan from Brighton.

Other Football News and Notes

Former Chelsea forward Sam Kerr made her return to Gotham FC in front of a record-breaking crowd for a women's sporting event in New York City and returns Gotham. Goalkeeper Craig Gordon has announced his retirement from football at the age of, concluding a 25-year career. The debate over heading in football continues, with John Stiles warning of a brain injury epidemic due to headers. Elsewhere, Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix.