Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

FIFA and World Cup Investment Plans

Real Madrid praised UEFA for helping protect football "at a decisive moment" after FIFA abandoned plans to sell stakes in a World Cup company to private investors. FIFA president Infantino's World Cup plans were described as ham-fisted and delusional from both a business and political perspective. These plans also never considered the impact on women's soccer, with the 2027 Women's World Cup set to be the first major tournament affected. Pressure is building on Gianni Infantino, and his ability to survive as FIFA president after the implosion of the controversial World Cup investment plan is in question.

Premier League Transfer Activity and Managerial Moves

Argentina international Barco has joined Chelsea from Strasbourg, the London club have announced. Xabi Alonso that the "scar" he suffered from his short tenure at Real Madrid has healed, allowing him to fully focus on taking Chelsea into the new Premier League season. United opted for affordable options in the transfer market, while Chelsea, Man City, and Spurs all spent significant sums. Arsenal manager Arteta refused to comment on his club's reported pursuit of Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior but anticipates further moves before the transfer window closes. Bournemouth are reportedly finalizing an £11.1m move for Sevilla right-back Juanlu as new manager Marco Rose's squad nears completion. Newcastle United reportedly looking at a move for USMNT midfielder Tyler Adams. Everton have agreed to a £7m deal to sign Arsenal's Norgaard. Celtic are reportedly increasing their offer for a Serie A midfielder, while Rangers have opened talks for a winger from a newly-promoted Premier League team. Former Liverpool Mohamed Salah is reportedly set to move to Turkish club Trabzonspor. Bayern Munich reportedly keen on Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko.

Preseason Friendlies and Player Performances

Robert Lewandowski two goals, including the winner, in his home debut for the Chicago Fire, helping his team beat Charlotte FC 2-1 on Saturday. Mbeumo's brace earned Manchester United a 2-1 friendly victory over Atlético Madrid in Stockholm on Saturday. Real Madrid 2-2 with Fiorentina in a preseason friendly on Saturday, marking new coach José Mourinho's first game in charge, with Endrick scoring for Madrid. Manchester City 1-1 with Inter Milan in Hong Kong before losing 3-1 on penalties as Enzo Maresca took charge for the first time. Defender Josko believes new manager Enzo Maresca is a "perfect one" for Manchester City.

Other Soccer News and Developments

Inter Miami not expressed interest in signing Colombian national team midfielder Juan Fernando Quintero, club sources confirmed to ESPN. 2026-27 Premier League kits have begun to be released, with many top clubs already unveiling their new designs. J.J. Watt his "Milk Man" nickname by delivering Burnley's new kit. Cape Verde Vozinha will be allowed to display his nickname on his jersey when he joins Chilean football. Asisat Oshoala the only goal as Nigeria beat Zambia at Wafcon 2026, reviving their hopes of reaching the 2027 Women's World Cup.

The Hundred and Other Cricket News

Another fine from Ben Duckett and crucial late wickets from Mohammad Amir helped Trent Rockets maintain their position at the top of The Hundred table with a five-run win over Sun Risers Leeds. Dunkley's 56 off 33 balls propelled the Trent Rockets to an impressive five-run victory over Sun Risers Leeds in The Hundred at Trent Bridge. MI London winless in the competition.

Scottish Premiership Action

St Johnstone surrendered a lead before storming back to edge a seven-goal thriller on their Scottish Premiership return at home to Kilmarnock. Aberdeen, Nisbet leading the line, managed to turn the tables on Hearts in a match that highlighted the significant difference a year can make. Podcast reaction late drama at Pittodrie on the opening weekend of the Premiership, with big wins for St Mirren away to Falkirk and Aberdeen's dramatic late show. Sportscene highlights Saturday's Premiership games featured matches including last season’s runners-up Hearts at Aberdeen and Falkirk v St Mirren.

Boxing and Tennis Updates

Pierce O'Leary his first professional defeat when he was stopped by Mark Chamberlain in a thrilling fight in Dublin. Jack Draper called for his fans to be patient with his return after the former world No 4 withdrew from the DC Open with an arm injury.

Netball and Horse Racing

England will not win a medal in netball at the Commonwealth Games after suffering a comprehensive 68-50 defeat to Australia in Glasgow. Blue Bolt her faultless campaign with victory in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville. Blue Bolt Precise are set to clash again in the Prix Rothschild at Deauville.

NWSL and Other Sports

NWSL midseason grades indicate which clubs are excelling and which are struggling at the halfway point of the season, with all 16 teams receiving evaluations.