Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: September 23, 2026, 10:06 PM ET

International Football

Cristiano Ronaldo remains defiant about his Portugal future, insisting he still believes he can help the national team after considering retirement following the World Cup. The forward is spurred on by a target of 1,000 career goals and the desire for Portugal glory. Craig Bellamy, preparing Wales to face Portugal, watched on as Ronaldo once caused an airport lockdown, calling him "beyond a superstar." Bellamy’s serious business resumes for Wales after interest from Burnley.

Harry Kane called England's World Cup exit to Argentina the most painful near miss yet, while Bukayo Saka says England players are still carrying that "scar." Jurgen Klopp is aiming to turn Germany's fortunes around as he prepares for his first game as manager. The spotlight is on new coaches Patrick Vieira and Herve Renard as the road to Afcon 2027 begins.

Domestic Football & Transfers

UK Prime Minister Burnham wants an "outdated" ban on football fans drinking in the stands scrapped, calling it discrimination. The ban has been in place since 1985. Manchester United posted record revenue but remain over £1bn in debt, with £63.5m spent on the new stadium. The club is selling chunks of the Old Trafford pitch for £125. Transfer rumors include Manchester United lining up Antonio Conte for a sensational Premier League return, while Barcelona have ruled out an Alvarez deal.

Mikel Arteta has agreed a long-term contract extension at Arsenal, with sources confirming the deal. The question is whether he can turn Arsenal from champions into serial winners. Christian Eriksen leaves Wolfsburg by mutual consent just three months after joining. Barcelona followed Real Madrid in breaking the $1B revenue barrier.

Women's Champions League

Marie-Antoinette Katoto’s hat trick led Lyonnes in an 8-0 Champions League rout over Servette. Chelsea secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Austria Wien, with Wieke Kaptein scoring the stunning winner. Arsenal won late, while Manchester City drew 2-2 at Bayern Munich in their UWCL return. An ad break during Arsenal's Women's Champions League coverage was unscheduled, also featuring a dog on set.

Real Madrid need more from young star Felicia Schröder to reach new UWCL heights after a draw with PSG. The WSL Players Cup format makes a Quadruple impossible, with the League Cup re-branded.

Major League Soccer

Columbus Crew 2 fired manager Federico Higuain after fallout from referee abuse, with the MLS coach sacked over a sexist remark to a female referee.

NFL

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has been ruled out for the 2026 season with a knee injury.

Boxing

Damar Thomas reached the super-heavyweight final as GB secured five European medals. Michael Pirotton vows to be a "matador" against "money cow" Johnny Fisher. Richard Riakporhe offers Fisher a British heavyweight title shot. Rising cruiserweight talent Lucas Roehrig signs with Zuffa Boxing.

Darts

Luke Littler faces questions about whether he needs to change his approach to hostile crowds. Karel Sedlacek won his first PDC Pro Tour title at Players Championship.

Golf

The Presidents Cup schedule and tee times are set, with Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns partnering for Thursday fourballs. Can Europe inspire a new "Medinah miracle" at the Presidents Cup?

Formula 1

F1 drivers are split over whether a Monaco Sprint "makes sense" for 2027. Lewis Hamilton defends Ferrari amid "doom and gloom" criticism. Ferrari set a Baku target as Nico Rosberg pinpoints a repeat flaw. Isack Hadjar will remain at Red Bull for 2027 as Max Verstappen’s teammate.

Rugby Union

South Africa made 13 sweeping changes for the Australia Test. Northampton’s chief lifts the lid on Henry Pollock contract negotiations.

Cricket

Sky Sports will show England men’s tour of South Africa this winter.

Rugby League

The Man of Steel shortlist features Brad O’Neill, Adam Keighran, and Lachie Miller.

Other Sports

A footballer who had a heart transplant then became a World Cup winner is profiled. Nigerian football is enduring its "worst time in history," says Segun Odegbami.