Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: September 23, 2026, 2:04 PM ET

Arsenal's Late Winner and Arteta's New Deal

Arsenal opened their Women's Champions League campaign with a dramatic late win, capping a night in which Manchester City rallied from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Bayern Munich. The evening's broadcast was not without incident, as coverage of Arsenal's opener featured an unscheduled ad break and an unexpected dog on set. On the men's side, Mikel Arteta has agreed a long-term contract to remain at Arsenal, with the club expected to announce the deal shortly. Declan Rice is also prepared to commit his long-term future to the Gunners, according to Wednesday's papers. The question now is whether Arteta can turn champions into serial winners and deliver the Champions League ambition that has so far eluded him.

Manchester City's European Return

Manchester City's return to European competition has proven challenging, with the 2-2 draw at Bayern Munich underlining that this will not be an easy campaign. City found themselves two goals down before mounting their comeback, a result that leaves them with work to do in the group. The performance raised questions about squad depth and defensive resilience as the fixtures pile up.

Real Madrid and PSG Share the Spoils

Real Madrid's young star Felicia Schröder delivered a scintillating performance in her side's draw with PSG, though several missed chances cost her team the win. Madrid will need more from Schröder if they are to reach new heights in the Women's Champions League this season. The draw leaves both sides level on points in the group.

Barcelona's Bonmatí Delays Return

Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmatí has told ESPN that pain has delayed her return after suffering a broken leg. The Ballon d'Or winner has not played this season, and her absence has been felt in Barcelona's midfield. There is no firm timeline for her comeback, though the club remains hopeful she will feature before the knockout stages.

Klopp's Germany Debut

As Jurgen Klopp prepares for his first game as Germany manager, players have lauded the "special" coach ahead of his debut. Klopp has called up 16 uncapped players in a supersized squad, signaling a major rebuild. The former Liverpool manager aims to reclaim the German flag as national team coach after a turbulent period for Die Mannschaft.

Mancini's Italy Sequel

Roberto Mancini has returned as Italy coach amid a World Cup crisis, with Italian football having fallen to its lowest ebb after no Italian club progressed deep in Europe. The "Italian Job" now has a sequel, and the question is whether Mancini can inspire a new generation to qualify for the World Cup. His second spell begins under immense pressure.

Scotland's World Cup Play-Off Squad

Scotland have recalled Sam Kerr and Martha Thomas for their World Cup play-offs, naming both in their first squad in almost a year. New call-up Luis Binks said "Scotland was always the one for me", expressing pride at his first senior call-up. Head coach Sebastien Pocognoli admitted to feeling "positive nervousness" ahead of his debut. Robbie Ure, who left Rangers and rebuilt his career at Sevilla, is also hoping for a Scotland debut.

Republic of Ireland's Israel Fixture Debate

Dara O'Shea says the Republic of Ireland squad will wait until after Thursday's match to discuss the Israel games, insisting the issue "can't be brushed over." Irish taoiseach Micheal Martin has described comments by the Israel Football Association as "unacceptable", adding political weight to the fixture. The squad is expected to address the matter collectively after the international window opens.

Celtic's Financial Loss and O'Neill Backing

Celtic have reported a £4.8m loss after tax for the year ending June 30, with revenue dropping 22.7%. Despite a "painful" week, manager Martin O'Neill has received backing from the club, with Celtic vowing to "come together and support" him. Chief executive Michael Nicholson also backed O'Neill publicly, ending speculation about his immediate future.

Higuain Sacked Over Referee Abuse

The Columbus Crew have fired Crew 2 manager Federico Higuain after a fallout from referee abuse. The MLS club sacked their reserve team coach after he refused to let go of a sexist remark made to a female referee. The decision came swiftly, with the club citing conduct incompatible with its values.

Spain's Referees Back Real Madrid

Spain's Technical Committee of Referees has backed Real Madrid, stating that Lee Kang-In should have been sent off for his tackle on Federico Valverde. The committee's finding adds pressure on LaLiga officiating standards. Real Madrid had lobbied for clarity on the incident.

Valencia Appoint Aguirre

LaLiga side Valencia have appointed former Mexico coach Javier Aguirre on an initial deal until season's end. Aguirre returns to Spain with a reputation for stabilizing struggling clubs. Valencia sit dangerously close to the relegation zone and need a rapid turnaround.

Transfer Rumors and Gossip

Bayern Munich could consider signing Erling Haaland to replace Harry Kane, though Haaland is contracted to Manchester City for another eight years. Manchester United and Liverpool are keen on Crystal Palace defender Tyrick Mitchell, according to Wednesday's gossip. Hibernian's manager search has produced new names including Kniat, Reedijk and Vasara, per the latest gossip, with Old Firm clubs circling an Arsenal teen.

WSL Players Cup Format

The WSL has re-branded the League Cup as the Players Cup, introducing a format designed to make the competition more competitive. The changes make a Quadruple impossible for any club this season. The new structure has drawn mixed reactions from managers and players.

Championship Trends and Premier League xG

As the international break begins, BBC Sport has reviewed the Championship's early trends, identifying which sides have overperformed and which have struggled. In the Premier League, an xG analysis reveals which teams have overperformed their expected goals and which have underperformed, offering a clearer picture of true form.

Jordan James and Wrexham Links

Jordan James says he turned down possible Premier League moves to join Wolverhampton Wanderers, and that Wrexham was not among his options. The Wales midfielder weighed Leicester City interest before making his decision. His focus now is on establishing himself at Molineux.

Steven Sessegnon's Wimbledon Rebuild

Steven Sessegnon, twin brother of Ryan, is rebuilding at AFC Wimbledon after departing Wigan. The pair once walked out at Craven Cottage side by side, each holding a shirt. Steven's journey has diverged from his brother's, but he is determined to forge his own path.

Nick Powell's Shelved Retirement

Bradford City forward Nick Powell has revealed he planned to retire in January aged, but is happy he shelved those plans. Powell has since rediscovered his form and become a key figure for Bradford. His resurgence has surprised even himself.

Lewis Koumas Rising

Liverpool's Lewis Koumas has made his mark early this season, with the young forward described as contagious and confident in the Nations League. His performances have caught the eye of coaches and fans alike. The rise of Koumas adds to Liverpool's attacking depth.

Nigerian Football in Crisis

Former Afcon winner Segun Odegbami has slammed those running Nigerian football, calling it the "worst time in history" for the sport in the country. Odegbami's criticism targets administrative failures and poor governance. The comments come amid ongoing turmoil in the Nigerian federation.

MLS Coaching Change

The Columbus Crew's decision to sack their coach over a sexist remark to a female referee has drawn attention across MLS. The club acted after the coach refused to let go of the incident. The dismissal underscores growing scrutiny of conduct toward match officials.

NWSL Player Development Rule

The NWSL has launched a new player development mechanism that will allow teams to better manage young talent. The rule is designed to give clubs more control over player pathways. It represents a significant shift in how the league nurtures emerging stars.

USMNT's Pepi Injury Update

United States and PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi has called his injury a "minor setback", downplaying concerns about his availability. Pepi remains optimistic about a quick return to action. His fitness is crucial for both PSV and the USMNT.

Taylor Swift Joins 10th-Tier Club

In an unusual story, Taylor Swift has signed for a 10th-tier club — though not the pop star. The namesake footballer scored on debut for the English club. The coincidence has delighted fans on social media.

Racist Message Trial

A court has heard that Aaryan Aggarwal called England defender Jess Carter "stupid" and "ugly" in a racist message. The teenager denies sending the message. The case continues.

Wales Euro 2016 Quiz

As Craig Bellamy's side travel to Portugal on Thursday, BBC Sport challenges fans to name Wales' Euro 2016 semi-final XI against Ronaldo's Portugal. The quiz tests memory of that historic run. Wales fans will relish the trip down memory lane.

Scouting Hidden Gems

Top clubs now have tabs on players worldwide through live scouting and data, raising the question of whether anywhere is left to scout. Increasing footage and analytics have shrunk the globe. The hunt for hidden gems continues in ever more remote leagues.

Scottish Football Podcast

A deep dive into the murky depths of Scottish football beyond the Premiership asks: who can stop Stenny? The lower league round-up covers the latest results and storylines. Stenhousemuir's form has become a talking point.

Man of Steel Shortlist

The 2026 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel shortlist has been revealed, with Wigan's Brad O'Neill, Adam Keighran and Lachie Miller among the nominees. The award recognizes the standout player of the Super League season. The winner will be announced at the end of the campaign.

RFL Investigation into Leigh and Wigan

Leigh Leopards and Wigan Warriors will be subject to an independent investigation by the RFL following conduct issues. The governing body confirmed the probe into the clubs' behavior. Findings are expected Boxing: Riakporhe Offers Fisher Title Shot

Richard Riakporhe has offered Johnny Fisher the chance to fight him for the British heavyweight title. Riakporhe, known as a "big puncher," is seeking a high-profile domestic clash. Fisher has yet to respond publicly.

Presidents Cup: Medinah Miracle?

If the International Team are to end Team USA's Presidents Cup dominance, they may need a new "Medinah miracle" at Medinah. The comparison to Europe's Ryder Cup heroics has been raised. The International Team face a steep challenge.

Snedeker's Presidents Cup Snub

Brandt Snedeker said he wants JJ Spaun "to make me look like an idiot" after leaving him off the Presidents Cup team. Snedeker's comment reflects the tough calls involved in selection. Spaun will have a chance to prove him wrong.

F1: Hadjar to Stay at Red Bull

Red Bull have confirmed Isack Hadjar will remain as Max Verstappen's team-mate through 2027. The French driver has impressed since stepping up. The continuity provides stability for the team.

Ferrari's Baku Target

Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur has stressed the importance of executing weekends as the team targets Baku, while Nico Rosberg pinpointed Ferrari's repeat flaw. The team's operational errors have cost them points. Baku represents a chance to reset.

Darts: Menzies Reveals Heart Attack Scare

Cameron Menzies, winner of Players Championship, has revealed he feared he was suffering a heart attack before the World Matchplay incident. Menzies opened up about the health scare. He has since returned to competition.

NFL: Giants QB Dart's Knee

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart could be forced to undergo knee surgery that would end his season. The Giants are awaiting further evaluation. Dart's absence would be a significant blow to the team.

Erasmus Makes 13 Changes for Springboks

South Africa have made 13 changes to their starting line-up for Sunday's one-off Test against Australia in Perth. Rassie Erasmus has rotated heavily, signaling a shift in selection. The Springboks face the Wallabies in a crucial encounter.