Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set; Haaland Returns Home

The 2026 World Cup is down to its final four, with the top four FIFA-ranked teams – Argentina, Spain, France, and England – set to compete for the title all top-ranked. France manager Didier Deschamps anticipates a "spectacular game" against Spain in the semifinal predicts a spectacular, while England captain Harry Kane insists his squad is "completely together" ahead of their clash with Argentina. England will make a late decision on Declan Rice's fitness for the semifinal. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a hero's welcome upon returning home after their World Cup campaign were welcomed home.

Transfer Buzz and Roster Watch

The New England Revolution have extended the loan of U.S. Men's National Team goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026 extended the loan. Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly agreed to a deal with Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne, paying his £10 million ($13. release clause agreed a deal. Barcelona president Joan Laporta has warned that their "substantial offer" to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez could expire. In other transfer news, Manchester United have completed the £50 million signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea completed the signing, though a deal for Ederson is not proceeding due to a medical issue but could be revisited at a lower price. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated his desire to keep Enzo Fernandez at the club.

Club and Player News

Everton captain Megan Finnigan has signed a one-year contract extension with the Women's Super League club. Liverpool have signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. Aberdeen have purchased winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee. Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined the London City Lionesses on a three-year deal following her departure from Barcelona.

Controversies and Player Development

The death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams is under police investigation after his body was discovered in Cape Town. Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of, weeks after being dropped from World Cup officiating due to a police investigation has died. FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO are in discussions regarding protocols to prevent games from being played in excessive heat are in discussions.

Emerging Talents and Future Rosters

The 2026 World Cup has seen several young talents emerge, including Diomande, Freeman, and Manzambi, who are expected to make an impact in future tournaments breaking though. The USMNT is already to the 2030 World Cup, with projections on who could represent the United States in that tournament could represent. Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has called for tolerance following comments from a former Prime Minister that France "don't have any French players".