Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

World Cup Semifinals Set: France vs. Spain and England vs. Argentina Headline Final Four

France head coach Didier Deschamps is anticipating a "spectacular game" when his side faces Spain in the World Cup semifinals predicting a showdown. Deschamps himself deflected questions regarding his team's status as World Cup favorites, while Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has called for tolerance following comments from the nation's former Prime Minister. The semifinal clash will feature two of the top four ranked teams in FIFA's standings, with England and Argentina the other pairing making the semis. England captain Harry Kane insists his squad is "completely together" ahead of their match against Argentina, though a late call will be made on Declan Rice's fitness for the semifinal. Analysts are comparing the distinct attacking styles of the remaining four teams, and BBC Sport has provided statistical comparisons between France, Spain, Argentina, and England. England has also traveled the furthest among the semifinalists, covering more air miles across North America traveling the furthest.

Club News and Transfers: Digne to PSG, Santos to Man Utd, and Goalkeeper Moves

Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne has agreed to a deal to return to Paris Saint-Germain, with the French club paying his £10 million ($13. release clause agreeing a deal. Manchester United have completed the £50 million signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea completing the signing, though a deal for Ederson has broken down due to a medical issue but could be revisited at a lower price. Barcelona's offer for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez is set to expire, according to club president Joan Laporta expiring soon. Liverpool have signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City signing Keating. The New England Revolution have extended the loan of USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026 extending the loan. Meanwhile, Aston Villa are assessing a move for Pervis Estupinan, while Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly not for sale assessing moves.

Player News and Off-Field Developments: Turner's Loan Extension and Player Honors

United States men's national team goalkeeper Matt Turner will remain with the New England Revolution after his loan from Lyon was extended through the end of 2026. Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a heroes' welcome upon their return home following their World Cup campaign welcomed home. Actor Cristo Fernández, known for his role in "Ted Lasso," made his professional USL debut for El Paso Locomotive, coming on as a substitute in the 79th minute. Police are investigating the death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered in Cape Town. In other news, Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has passed away at the age of, weeks after being dropped from World Cup officiating duties due to a police investigation in the UK passing away.

Women's Football and Future Tournaments: USWNT to Host Spain, England's Test Match

The United States women's national team is scheduled to host world No. 1 and reigning World Cup champions Spain for two friendly matches in October hosting Spain. In cricket, England suffered a significant 270-run defeat to India in the first women's Test match at Lord's suffering defeat. England captain Megan Finnigan has signed a one-year contract extension with Women's Super League club Everton signing an extension. Head coach Charlotte Edwards has emphasized the need for more red-ball cricket exposure for the England side in preparation for the 2027 Ashes prioritizing red-ball.

Transfer Rumors and Managerial Movements: Alonso at Chelsea, Kane Speculation

New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated his desire to keep midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the club wanting to keep. Alonso also commented that his decision to join Chelsea over Liverpool was "about timings" about timings. Bayern Munich believes Harry Kane will sign an extension, despite interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid expecting an extension. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill appears resigned to losing Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels this summer.

Other Football News and Odds

The New England Revolution have extended the loan of USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026 extending the loan. Hydration breaks, mandated by FIFA, have been a notable feature of the 2026 World Cup. ESPN's experts are offering their best bets for the World Cup semifinal round offering bets. There is ongoing discussion regarding the format for deciding cup games that end in a tie, with alternatives to extra time and penalties being considered considering alternatives.