Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set, Bellingham Shines

Jude Bellingham scored twice to lead England to a 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in the World Cup quarterfinals, securing a spot in the semifinals. England will face Argentina, who advanced after a victory where supporting players stepped up when Lionel Messi was contained by the Switzerland defense. Head coach Thomas Tuchel stated Declan Rice was sidelined by illness for three days before the Norway match. The top four ranked teams have all advanced to the semifinals for the first time in World Cup history. England's belief has been strengthened by comeback wins, and they now prepare to face Lionel Messi and Argentina. Jude Bellingham's performance has drawn comparisons to World Cup legends, and he faces Messi in the next round. Paul Merson believes Bellingham possesses the "X-factor" needed for England to win the tournament has it. Despite manager Thomas Tuchel's comments about England "getting lucky" against Norway, match-winner Jude Bellingham disagreed with the assessment. Norway questioned whether Bellingham's equalizer should have stood, citing a potential ball strike on the spidercam, though "Snicko" data suggested otherwise. Erling Haaland's World Cup journey concluded with Norway's quarterfinal loss to England. Spain also advanced to the semifinals, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in their win over Belgium, despite the presence of Lamine Yamal. Lamine Yamal expressed confidence that France should be wary of Spain in their semifinal clash. Former Argentine player Antonio Rattín, whose sending off in the 1966 World Cup led to the introduction of red and yellow cards, has died at the age of 89.

Transfer Rumors and Club Moves

Wolves star João Gomes is reportedly being pursued by Manchester United and Liverpool, potentially shifting from a previous agreement with Atlético Madrid turn. Manchester United are also rumored to be interested in signing Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Chelsea is reportedly looking to permanently sell Alejandro Garnacho for €50 million this summer. Former Manchester United player Mason Greenwood is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid, with his contract at Marseille running through 2029. Liverpool's record signing Denise O'Sullivan is expected to depart the club just six months after joining, with a loan deal to Gotham FC being finalized expected to leave. Bournemouth defender Alex Jimenez is reportedly set for a loan move to Fiorentina amidst an ongoing club investigation. Coventry City has signed winger Loum Tchaouna from Burnley for an undisclosed fee. Rangers midfielder is being tracked by Italian and German clubs, while Celtic is considering a move for a Manchester United goalkeeper. Manchester City has secured the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City.

Managerial Changes and Player News

Senegal has sacked manager Pape Thiaw following the team's exit from the World Cup at the last-32 stage. Jurgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of the German men's national team, succeeding Julian Nagelsmann. Paolo Maldini has been hired as technical director for the Italian football federation's national team rebuild. A study has found evidence of reduced brain volume and cognitive difficulties in former elite footballers, with an increased likelihood of depression and anxiety. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who played in all three of his country's World Cup group matches, has died at the age of 25. England midfielder Jordan Henderson joked about breaking his arm while celebrating a World Cup win, calling it "not my finest hour".

Other Football Notes

Spain claimed their 10th Uefa Men's Under-19 Championship title by defeating Germany 2-0 in the final. Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates, a notable figure in English football, has died at the age of 94. The Premier Sports Cup saw holders St Mirren secure a 4-0 win, while Linlithgow caused an upset against Greenock Morton. Leeds Rhinos extended their lead at the top of the table with a 28-6 victory over Catalans Dragons. Leigh Leopards maintained their playoff push in the Super League with a 24-18 win against Castleford Tigers.