Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

World Cup Semifinals Drama and Aftermath

England's World Cup journey ended in a heartbreaking 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina, leaving captain Harry Kane admitting it was "too soon" to decide if the 2026 tournament would be his last. The squad expressed a sense of "shock" at their performance, according to captain Tim Ream. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham appeared to slap Argentina's Valentín Barco after the match, sparking a minor melee. Manager Thomas Tuchel over England's tactical approach and subsequent exit, though he retains FA backing. FIFA defended its referee following criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps after their semifinal loss to Spain. Lionel Messi, in what could be his final World Cup game for Argentina to send his team to the final. The UK government has urged FIFA to investigate Argentina's team after players posed with a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falklands following their win over England in celebrations.

Player News and Transfer Rumors

Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte after suffering an injury at the World Cup. In transfer news, Inter Milan are reportedly working on deals for Djed Spence and Cristian Romero as part of their summer plans. Liverpool are leading the race for Kaishu Sano, while Arsenal show interest in Ezri Konsa according to gossip. Nottingham Forest are preparing a £45m offer for Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall as they look to strengthen. Celtic are finding it difficult to compete in the transfer market due to financial constraints according to the club's CEO. Birmingham City have signed French defender Jade Rastocle from Montpellier for an undisclosed fee. Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe after leaving Marseille.

Club Soccer and League Updates

Gotham FC saw a sellout crowd at Citi Field for the Queens Classic, signaling significant potential for the franchise's trajectory. Sam Kerr made her return to Gotham FC and the NWSL, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit in front of a record-breaking crowd. Coventry City have signed Eintracht Frankfurt defender Aurele Amenda in a deal worth over £17m. Bournemouth's Alex Jimenez has joined Serie A side Fiorentina on a season-long loan. Wales striker Hannah Cain has rejoined Everton after her contract with Leicester City expired. Crystal Palace have signed Lexi Lloyd-Smith, last season's WSL2 top scorer, on a three-year deal.

Other Sporting Headlines

England secured a thrilling four-wicket win against India to level the one-day international series, with Joe Root scoring an unbeaten 99. At The 154th Open, Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler made strong starts, while Rory McIlroy suffered an early setback. Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix due to an engine change. Amanda Serrano will defend her world titles against Lucrecia Manzur in a fight being shown on TikTok on August 21. Carlos Alcaraz has entered the Cincinnati Open in August, targeting a return from a wrist injury.