Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: July 2, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

International Football Updates

Gotham FC has secured a major signing with forward Sam Kerr returning to the NWSL after six years at Chelsea. Kerr, still the league's all-time leading scorer in the regular season, stated that the NWSL was her only consideration for a return. Meanwhile, the Colombian women's team is heading into the knockout stage of the World Cup with renewed confidence, a mindset potentially forged by a significant earlier defeat to France that helped reshape their campaign. In anticipation of Thursday's match against Croatia, Portugal is preparing for an emotional occasion as they prepare to honor Diogo Jota, one year after his tragic passing in a car accident.

European Club Moves and Transfers

Manchester United is reportedly targeting Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba, while Arsenal is showing interest in Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa and Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes amidst transfer gossip. Tottenham Hotspur has finalized a substantial £112M signing of midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham. Speculation also continues around Chelsea, with Enzo Fernández's agent confirming the midfielder is exploring exit options from Stamford Bridge this summer.

Nations League and Player Relations

The Football Association of Ireland has cautioned that any boycott of the Republic of Ireland's upcoming Nations League games against Israel would cause significant lasting harm due to potentially extensive repercussions. On the field, Youri Tielemans has downplayed reports of tension with teammate Leandro Trossard, describing their on-field scuffle during Belgium's World Cup win as simply part football.

England's Preparations and Fan Engagement

England is implementing unique strategies to cope with potentially disruptive local fans during their World Cup campaign in Mexico, including the use of secret locations and sleep devices to combat noise. The team's crucial match against Mexico on Monday, scheduled for a 01:00 BST kickoff, has prompted discussions about whether young fans should stay awake, with suggestions for disco naps and spoiler-free recaps. In a concession to fan engagement, pubs will be stay open until 5am for the England-Mexico match, a relaxation of licensing laws that was not initially planned.

Women's Football and Inquests

England has advanced to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final for the first time in eight years, securing their spot with a decisive 40-run victory over South Africa. Separately, an inquest into the death of former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack heard testimony that she "would still be alive" if the coach of the women's team had not been employed by the club according to her mother.

Other Football News

Watford has rejected a £10 million bid from Hull City for player Irankunda as transfer news continues to emerge. In tennis, Arthur Fery has become the last British singles player remaining at Wimbledon after three other players bowed out on Thursday.