Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set, Talking Points Emerge

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are locked in, featuring the top four ranked teams: Argentina, Spain, France, and England went into the tournament as the top four. England booked their after a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice. France's attacking style, Argentina's set pieces, and Spain's counterattack are among the tactical approaches being analyzed as the final four prepare to clash are set to square off. BBC Sport experts have weighed in with their predictions for the semifinal ties, and discussions continue around the effectiveness and potential continuation of hydration breaks have been a talking point. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also opened the door to potentially expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams in the future.

Club Transfer Buzz and Player Moves

Transfer news continues to dominate headlines, with Arsenal of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, though Barcelona has also made a substantial offer that could expire. Manchester United is reportedly closing in on a £36 million move for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans, and has completed the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million. Newcastle appears set to miss out on Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, with Aston Villa also linked to the player. In Scotland, Aberdeen announced the signing of winger Lewis Smith from Livingston.

International Team News and Player Developments

The United States women's national team will host world No. 1 Spain for two friendly matches in October. ESPN has projected a potential USMNT roster for the 2030 World Cup. On the international management front, Slaven Bilic has been reappointed as the manager of Croatia's men's national team, and Diego Forlán is in advanced talks to become Uruguay's interim head coach. Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined the London City Lionesses on a three-year deal.

Other Football and Sports News

In a unique crossover, actor Cristo Fernández, known for his role in "Ted Lasso," in the USL for El Paso Locomotive. Police are investigating the death of South African World Cup player Jayden Adams in Cape Town. Meanwhile, in Cricket, England's women's team suffered a heavy defeat against India in a Test match at Lord's, prompting calls for more red-ball exposure. In Golf, Rory McIlroy has been grouped for the early rounds of The Open Championship and identified areas in his game to improve. Tom Kim secured a PGA Tour victory at the Genesis Scottish Open, ending a 1,001-day wait for a title. In Darts, Krzysztof Ratajski, while Danny Noppert spoke out about receiving social media abuse after his loss. Rugby league saw Toulouse secure a dominant 46-0 victory over St Helens in the Betfred Super League.