Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set for Blockbuster Clashes

The 2026 World Cup semifinals are shaping up to be epic encounters, with Spain winger Lamine Yamal calling the match against France the "most important match" of his career. France boss Didier Deschamps, however, is projecting a "spectacular game" against Spain, though he deflected questions about his team's favorite status. Meanwhile, England faces Argentina with manager Thomas Tuchel's side aiming to reach the World Cup final. Jamie Carragher believes England can exploit Lionel Messi in their semifinal clash, a sentiment echoed by tactical analyses suggesting how Tuchel's team can advance. Authorities have announced increased security measures for the England vs. Argentina match in Atlanta. In other World Cup news, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reportedly been reported to the International Olympic Committee over alleged political neutrality breaches in his dealings with President Donald Trump. The unique historical quirk of Lionel Messi never having played against England until Wednesday's semifinal is also noted.

Club Transfers and Signings Dominate Headlines

In the transfer market, Arsenal has agreed a fee to sell Belgian forward Leandro Trossard to Besiktas, with the club later confirming the move. Manchester United has signed veteran goalkeeper Karl Darlow after his contract expired at Leeds, and the club continues to be active in adapting its summer transfer plans with more signings expected. Brighton has completed a club-record deal for Tottenham's Luka Vuskovic, signing the Croatian defender for £46m on a five-year contract. Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne is set to return to Paris Saint-Germain after the French club paid his £10 million ($13.3m) release clause. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City, while also being linked with Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup Liverpool linked.

Player Movements and Managerial Decisions

United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency Klutch Sports following a breakout World Cup performance. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated that his decision to join Chelsea over Liverpool was "about timings", and he is determined to keep Enzo Fernandez at the club. Arsenal has also signed German forward Lisa Baum on a permanent deal from RB Leipzig. Meanwhile, Manchester City is showing interest in Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi. Republic of Ireland international Emily Murphy is reportedly on the verge of joining Women's Super League club Brighton.

Other Football News and Notes

A significant seizure of approximately 58,000 fake Scotland and England football strips was made in Edinburgh, estimated to be one of the largest of its kind in the UK. Police are investigating the death of South African World Cup player Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered in Cape Town. 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. In a lighter note, Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a hero's welcome upon returning home after their World Cup achievements.