Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Finals & Semifinals Drama

Lionel Messi and Argentina are heading to the World Cup final after in a dramatic semifinal. The match saw Jude Bellingham slap the back of Argentina player Valentín Barco's head after the defeat. England captain Harry Kane stated it was "too soon" to decide if the 2026 World Cup was his last. The UK government has urged FIFA to after players posed with a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falklands Islands. Meanwhile, England has to avoid any potential Argentina celebrations. Spain, looking to match their 2010 triumph, face Argentina in the final, with a comparison of the two Spanish XIs highlighting the evolution of the team over the years. Spain's path to the final has been built on an elite defense, a departure from their traditional possession-based style as highlighted by ESPN.

Player Movements and Transfer Rumors

West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen has committed his future to the club despite their relegation from the Premier League. Aston Villa have signed Norway international Mathilde Harviken from Juventus, while former France Under-21 defender Maxime Esteve for a reported £27.3m. Arsenal are reportedly accelerating their pursuit of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, even after agreeing a deal for Christos Tzolis. Arsenal have also signed Danish youth international goalkeeper Isabella Damm on a permanent transfer. Nottingham Forest are preparing a £45m offer for Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall. Celtic's CEO has stated the club is struggling to compete with English Championship clubs in the transfer market.

Managerial Reflections and Team Performance

Former England captain Alan Shearer believes Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel will not be fazed by criticism following their World Cup semi-final defeat. Tuchel himself has blamed English football's 'DNA' for the World Cup exit and insists he is "100 per cent" committed to continuing as England boss into the next European Championships. USMNT captain Tim Ream expressed that the team was in "shock" after their performance in exiting the World Cup at the hands of Belgium. Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte has undergone surgery after suffering a knee injury at the World Cup.

NWSL and Domestic League Updates

Lindsey Heaps is embarking on a new chapter with the Denver Summit FC in the National Women's Soccer League, reflecting on her journey from the USWNT to France and back as detailed by ESPN. Sky Sports' live coverage of the Women's Super League has been confirmed, featuring a Grand Final rematch between St Helens and Wigan Warriors. London City Lionesses are aiming for success this season after a significant summer of signings, with owner Michele Kang confident they can "go all the way". Crystal Palace have signed Lexi Lloyd-Smith, last season's WSL2 top scorer, on a three-year deal.

Other Football News

The Pele jersey worn during Brazil's 1958 World Cup final victory over Sweden at Sotheby's. The 2026 World Cup saw Africa send its largest contingent, though five sides were eliminated late in matches, with Cape Verde earning praise for their performances as noted by the BBC. Manchester City hosted clubs at their training ground to showcase talent available during the summer transfer window in an exhibition day. Poor air quality due to wildfire smoke from Canada has led to the postponement of the Major League Soccer game between the Vancouver Whitecaps and Chicago Fire due to the smoky conditions. New York City FC are reportedly interested in signing Christian Pulisic, but AC Milan is not willing to sell the player according to ESPN.