Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinalists Set; Transfer Buzz Continues

The 2026 World Cup semifinals are locked in, featuring the top four teams in the FIFA rankings: Argentina, Spain, France, and England. Spain will face France their "World Cup favourites" perch, while England's grit will be tested against Argentina and Lionel Messi. Players and coaches are weighing in on the matchups, with discussions focusing on contrasting styles like France's counterattack and Argentina's set pieces. There's also analysis comparing the finalists' statistics, including who has traveled the most air miles. Meanwhile, transfer news is heating up. Aston Villa are reportedly working on a deal for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, potentially hijacking Newcastle United's pursuit working on a deal. Newcastle may miss out on Manzambi, who is leaning towards Villa. In other transfer news, Paris Saint-Germain have agreed to a deal with Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne, paying his £10 million ($13. release clause agreed a deal. Manchester United are reportedly closing in on Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans for around £36m, though a previous report suggested a £50m deal for a different player completed the signing. Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, with Barcelona's offer for the player set to expire.

Goalkeeper Moves and Club Focus

In goalkeeper movements, the New England Revolution have extended the loan of USMNT keeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026 extended the loan. Liverpool have signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. In Scotland, Hearts' focus should remain on securing a top-three finish in the Scottish Premiership, according to former defender Ryan McGowan should be focus. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill appears resigned to losing midfielders Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda this summer. Aberdeen have completed the signing of winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee.

Player Futures and Coaching Changes

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated his desire to keep midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the club. Uruguay's Football Association is in advanced talks to appoint former striker Diego Forlán as interim head coach of the national team. Croatia has reappointed former defender Slaven Bilic as the manager of their men's national team. Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year deal after her departure from Barcelona. The USWNT will host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches.

Other Football News and Analysis

The Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of, weeks after being dropped from officiating at the World Cup due to a police investigation in the UK. Police are investigating the death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams after his body was discovered in Cape Town. FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO are discussing protocols to prevent games from being played in extreme heat. FIFA's mandated hydration breaks during the World Cup have been a significant talking point. There's also analysis on how goalkeepers prepare for penalty shootouts, a method that has decided 39 knockout games since its 1982 World Cup debut get ready. The debate around an alternative to extra time and penalty shootouts continues. The World Cup will remember breakout stars like Diomande, Freeman, and Manzambi. The USMNT is already to the 2030 World Cup roster.

Cricket and Golf Updates

In cricket, Jacob Bethell will open the batting for England in their opening one-day international against India to open. England's Test side suffered a heavy defeat to India at Lord's, leading to calls for a change of captain. Head coach Charlotte Edwards is prioritizing more red-ball cricket exposure for the England side ahead of the 2027 Ashes. In golf, Tommy Fleetwood is looking to fulfill childhood dreams by chasing a hometown major victory at The Open at Royal Birkdale. Rory McIlroy has been grouped with Xander Schauffele and Matt Fitzpatrick for the opening rounds of The 154th Open. Joe Dean earned a late spot in The Open by winning a Last-Chance Qualifier.

Other Sporting News

In darts, Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Jermaine Wattimena 8-6 to win the European Darts Open.