Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals and Semifinals Set

England advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway. Jude Bellingham was the star for the Three Lions, scoring both goals and through the match. Erling Haaland's "insane journey" with Norway concluded in the quarterfinal loss, with Haaland subbed off late in extra time as England prevailed. England manager Thomas Tuchel felt his side "got lucky," but match-winner Bellingham disagreed with the assessment of the quarterfinal win. Norway also questioned the validity of Bellingham's equalizer, wondering if the ball hit the spidercam before the goal, though "Snicko" indicated otherwise. The victory means England will face either France or Spain in the next round.

Spain secured their spot in the semifinals by defeating Belgium, with midfielder Mikel Merino netting the decisive goal for La Roja. Spain's Lamine Yamal expressed confidence, stating that France should "fear us" heading into their semifinal clash. Spain also claimed the Uefa Men's Under-19 Championship, beating Germany 2-0 in Wrexham. Meanwhile, Argentina's supporting cast stepped up in their quarterfinal win, with Julián Álvarez providing the magic as Lionel Messi was effectively muted by the Swiss defense. The top four ranked teams have now reached the World Cup semifinals for the first time in the history of Fifa rankings.

Player News and Milestones

Jude Bellingham continues to impress at the World Cup, with his performances drawing comparisons to some of the all-time greats, potentially even rivaling Messi's legacy. Bellingham's sensational summer has been a defining narrative for England, as Harry Kane experienced an "off day" during their semifinal-clinching win as Bellingham's sensational summer carrying on. Kane himself downplayed comparisons with Haaland, stating the Norwegian is a "completely different" player.

Tragic News and Rule Changes

The football world mourns the passing of Argentine great Antonio Rattín at the age of. Rattín, who played for Boca Juniors, was famously sent off at the 1966 World Cup, an incident that contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards. In other news, Switzerland's Breel Embolo became the first player to be sent off under a new rule for mistaken identity at the World Cup.

Club Transfers and National Team Rebuilds

Manchester City have completed the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City. Wolves have signed left winger Rafiki Said from Standard Liege on a three-year deal with an option for a further 12 months. Coventry City have acquired winger Loum Tchaouna from relegated Burnley for an undisclosed fee. In the NWSL, defending champions Gotham FC are reportedly finalizing a deal to sign veteran midfielder Denise O'Sullivan on loan from Liverpool FC.

Mental Health and Player Welfare

A new study has found evidence that former elite footballers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, with the research also indicating reduced brain volume and difficulties with thinking skills and decision-making among retired players. England midfielder Jordan Henderson joked that breaking his arm while celebrating a World Cup win was "not my finest hour".

Other Footballing News

Jurgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, replacing Julian Nagelsmann. Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates has died at the age of. Bates was described as a "colourful, controversial - and significant" figure in English football. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who featured in all three of his country's group matches at the World Cup, has died at the age of 25.