Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

World Cup Semifinals & Finals Drama

Argentina secured their with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, thanks to a decisive late assist from Lionel Messi. The thrilling semifinal win garnered an impressive audience of 24 million viewers on the BBC alone. Despite the heartbreak for England, manager Thomas Tuchel following the team's exit. However, questions linger about England's tactical approach and player performances, with some suggesting the team's issues are systemic and have persisted for years regardless of management. Spain also booked their place in the final with a win over France, whose coach Didier Deschamps faced criticism and FIFA's director of refereeing defended the match official afterwards. The World Cup closing ceremony is set to feature performances from artists including Post Malone and others.

Player News & Transfer Rumors

New York City FC, but AC Milan is reportedly not looking to sell the American star. In other transfer news, Arsenal is rumored to be exploring a swap deal involving Viktor Gyökeres and Julián Álvarez for a striker. Manchester United is also active in the transfer market, with more signings expected as part of their summer rebuild. Meanwhile, Celtic's CEO indicated the club is against English Championship clubs. Reports suggest Nottingham Forest is preparing a £45 million offer for Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall as well.

Club & Player Updates

Arsenal will be assessing William Saliba's back injury, with surgery being an option. Manuel Ugarte has after an injury sustained at the World Cup. In the NWSL, Sam Kerr made her return for Gotham FC, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit in front of a record-breaking crowd at Citi Field, which saw Gotham win the Queens Classic with the attendance. Coventry City has signed defender Aurele Amenda for over £17 million. Crystal Palace has signed Lexi Lloyd-Smith, last season's WSL2 top scorer, on a three-year deal as well.

International & Historical Notes

The jersey worn by Pelé during Brazil's 1958 World Cup final victory over Sweden at Sotheby's. Lionel Messi, reflecting on Argentina's World Cup journey, stated that "nothing was handed to us". USMNT captain Tim Ream expressed that the team was in "shock" following their World Cup exit at the hands of Belgium. A banner displayed by Argentina players after their win over England prompted the UK government to urge FIFA to investigate the incident regarding the Falklands. Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately from their Spanish teammates but are expected to be fit for their upcoming World Cup match as they prepare.

Other Football News

In rugby news, Jamie George will captain an unchanged England XV to face Argentina in the Nations Championship, with players continuing to avoid wearing national shirts in Buenos Aires. Ireland has brought back key players for their clash against the All Blacks at Eden Park as they prepare. In other football news, Keylor Navas and Gilberto Mora headline the Liga MX squad for the MLS All-Star Game on July 29.

Beyond Football

In cricket, Joe Root's unbeaten 99 helped England secure a thrilling four-wicket win to level the one-day international series against India in Cardiff. In motorsports, Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix this Sunday. British driver Oliver Bearman expressed being "flattered" by speculation linking him to Red Bull amid ongoing uncertainty over Max Verstappen's future. Lewis Hamilton stated that Mercedes drivers should be "a lot further ahead" of him in the Drivers' Championship.