Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Soccer Transfer Window Buzz

Celtic is reportedly preparing a new, improved offer for Serie A midfielder Mateusz Gineitis. Meanwhile, Rangers initiated discussions with a winger from a newly promoted Premier League team. Former Liverpool Mohamed Salah is rumored to be on the verge of a move to Turkish club Trabzonspor. Newcastle United also being linked with a move for USMNT midfielder Tyler Adams, who currently plays for Bournemouth. Manchester City Enzo Maresca is interested in reuniting with Chelsea winger Pedro Neto. Bournemouth has secured the signing of Portuguese international defender Antonio Silva from Benfica. Brentford has finalized the acquisition of Mali midfielder Mamadou Sangare from Lens for a club-record fee.

Preseason Friendlies and Team News

Robert Lewandowski twice, including the decisive goal, in his home debut for the Chicago Fire, leading them to a 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC on Saturday. Real Madrid 2-2 with Fiorentina in a preseason friendly, marking new coach José Mourinho's first match in charge. Manchester City to a 1-1 draw with Inter Milan in Hong Kong before losing 3-1 on penalties in Enzo Maresca's inaugural game as manager. Bryan Mbeumo a brace to inspire Manchester United to a 2-1 comeback win against Atlético Madrid in Stockholm. Arsenal secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Girona in their pre-season friendly at Montilivi, with Max Dowman contributing a goal and an assist. Arsenal manager Arteta remained tight-lipped regarding links to Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior but indicated that further squad movements are expected before the summer transfer window closes. Real Madrid reportedly open to Vinícius Júnior's departure if a contract agreement cannot be reached, and they do not intend to increase their offer. Manchester City to pursue a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi irrespective of any uncertainties surrounding Rodri's future at the Etihad Stadium.

Scottish Premiership Kicks Off

Aberdeen secured a 2-1 victory over Hearts in their Scottish Premiership opener at Pittodrie, with Hearts conceding two late goals. This win marks a significant turnaround for Aberdeen compared to the previous year. Phillips scored in both halves to secure a 2-0 away win for St Mirren against Falkirk on the opening weekend of the Scottish Premiership season. opening weekend of the Premiership also saw late drama at Pittodrie, contributing to St Mirren's away victory over Falkirk.

Women's Soccer and FIFA Developments

Asisat Oshoala the sole goal in Nigeria's 1-0 victory over Zambia at Wafcon 2026, reigniting their qualification hopes for the 2027 Women's World Cup. FIFA's controversial for the 2027 Women's World Cup were set to be the first major tournament impacted, and this situation is deemed too critical for the women's game to be handled with such disregard. FIFA has initiated a consultation process for expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams, with documents suggesting a decision deadline of August 14. Pressure is mounting on FIFA president Gianni Infantino following the collapse of his controversial World Cup investment plan. The presentation of FIFA's plan to partially privatize the World Cup has raised numerous questions.

Other Soccer News

Jude Bellingham Real Madrid and England star, returned to his former club Birmingham City to witness them defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Verde's breakout goalkeeper Vozinha will be permitted to wear his nickname on his jersey upon joining Chilean football. A consortium led by former Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley has agreed to acquire a minority stake in West Ham United. Former Liverpool Mohamed Salah is reportedly nearing a transfer to Trabzonspor. Bayern Munich reportedly interested in signing Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko.

Netball and Boxing Results

England will not secure a medal in netball at the Commonwealth Games, having suffered a decisive 68-50 loss to Australia in the bronze-medal match held in Glasgow. Pierce O'Leary his first professional defeat in boxing when he was stopped by Mark Chamberlain in a thrilling bout in Dublin.

Golf and Horse Racing Updates

Yealimi Noh the third-round lead at the AIG Women's Open after Haeran Ryu faltered, with Lottie Woad and Charley Hull remaining in contention for the title. Davis Riley a seven-under 63 to lead by one shot heading into the final round of the Rocket Classic in Detroit. Evening Saigon by James Doyle, secured victory in the Coral Stewards' Cup at Glorious Goodwood. Jim Crowley announced his retirement from horse racing after failing to adequately recover from a severe injury sustained in a fall at York last September.

Cricket and Rugby League Results

Joe Root instrumental in Welsh Fire's seven-wicket victory over Birmingham Phoenix, who are now largely out of contention for the later stages of the competition. Birmingham Phoenix their first win in The Hundred 2026 women's competition with a dramatic victory over Welsh Fire, with just one ball remaining. Wolves moved up to fourth place in the Betfred Super League standings with a commanding 48-18 win over Castleford Tigers.