Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Set, Key Matches Loom

The 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals are here, with eight teams remaining and the trophy within reach. European nations dominate the final eight, with six teams hailing from the continent. England faces Norway in a rematch of a famous commentary moment, with England manager Thomas Tuchel granting his players a day off after their win over Mexico. Jude Bellingham's performance against Mexico drew comparisons to England legends Steven Gerrard and Roy Keane. Meanwhile, France faces Morocco in a rematch of a 2022 semifinal, with Morocco looking to advance again. Argentina, powered by Lionel Messi, is through after an epic comeback against Egypt, though Egypt has alleged favoritism towards Messi and Argentina. Messi, Jude Bellingham, and Lamine Yamal have unveiled the new World Cup final match ball. The race for the Golden Boot is heating up, with Messi currently leading.

Transfer Buzz and Club Moves Across Europe

Premier League clubs are active in the transfer market, with Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur reportedly set to battle for Norway's RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa. Chelsea has officially announced the £40 million signing of Sporting winger Geovany Quenda, who idolizes Cristiano Ronaldo and plays like Bukayo Saka. Manchester United has agreed to a £50 million deal with Chelsea for midfielder Andrey Santos. Newcastle captain Bruno Guimarães has informed his club of his desire to join Arsenal. Celtic is reportedly pursuing Scotland striker Bowie and an Egyptian winger. Barcelona is also reportedly looking at Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi. In Scotland, Alexia Putellas is set to join London City Lionesses, a move that could be monumental for the club and the Women's Super League.

Managerial Changes and Player News

Rafael Márquez has been appointed as the new head coach of Mexico, tasked with leading the team up to the 2030 World Cup. Roberto Martinez has stepped down as Portugal's coach following their World Cup exit, stating the team did not fail. Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as Fulham's new head coach. New Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has begun his work with the squad ahead of the Premier League season. Burnley is in talks to appoint Nicky Hayen as their new manager. In a significant development for Great Britain's Paralympians, Dame Sarah Storey has announced her retirement from competitive sport.

Controversies and FIFA Scrutiny

Fifa chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina has defended the integrity of World Cup referees, stating that their decision-making cannot be questioned. However, European lawmakers are reportedly seeking to launch an investigation into FIFA boss Gianni Infantino's involvement in decisions. Egypt has alleged bias in favor of Argentina and Lionel Messi following their World Cup exit. Belgium players appeared to mock President Donald Trump and FIFA after their victory over the US, referencing a controversial U-turn on a ban. Fifa has also opened an investigation into alleged racist abuse involving social media influencer IShow Speed during Argentina's win over Cape Verde. La Liga president Javier Tebas has criticized the "complicit silence" surrounding FIFA.

Other Sports News

In other sports news, New South Wales secured a dominant 30-12 victory over Queensland in the State of Origin decider. Novak Djokovic won a grueling five-set match to advance to the Wimbledon semi-finals against Jannik Sinner. Beau Greaves has made history by becoming the first woman to qualify for a European Tour event twice in darts. Formula 1 plans to feature more Sprint weekends in its 2027 season.