Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

Spain Advances, Belgium Exits World Cup

Mikel Merino to send Spain into the World Cup semifinals, despite the presence of Lamine Yamal. Merino, who came off the bench in the 86th minute against Belgium, whose World Cup hopes ended with a costly error from Senne Lammens. Lammens' mistake marked the conclusion of Belgium's "golden generation" era. Spain, now setting its sights on a semifinal clash with France, according to Yamal.

USMNT's World Cup Campaign Falls Short

The U.S. men's national team failed to advance in the World Cup, despite performing well in earlier stages. Christian Pulisic, who was expected to lead the team on home soil. Pulisic's World Cup ended prematurely with a fractured leg sustained in the team's 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16.

Transfer News and Signings

Arsenal announced the signing of defender Ona Batlle from Barcelona. Mason Greenwood, currently under contract with Marseille, is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid. Barcelona is nearing a deal to sign Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, while Manchester United's pursuit of Atalanta midfielder is reportedly in doubt. Niamh Charles has also joined Manchester City from Chelsea on a three-year contract.

England's World Cup Prospects and Squad News

England received a triple injury boost ahead of their quarterfinal match against Norway, with Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James returning to fitness. Guehi, however for the quarterfinal due to a hamstring strain. Norway's coach, Stale Solbakken to reach the semifinals. Star striker Erling Haaland, however, stated his team's World Cup chances are "really low" with the pressure on England. England's defense faces a challenge in stopping Haaland, as discussed by experts.

Player Movements and Contract Updates

Aurélien Tchouaméni has agreed to a new contract with Real Madrid, keeping him at the club until 2031. Crystal Palace signed defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer. Brentford has signed former West Ham striker Callum Wilson on a 12-month deal. In other news, Burnley as their new head coach.

World Cup Quarterfinal Previews and Analysis

France cruised into after defeating Morocco, with Kylian Mbappé downplaying any injury concerns after the match with a knock on his ankle. Mbappé's performance has led to questions about whether this French team is the best iteration of Les Bleus. ESPN's analysis heading into the quarterfinals, with England's quarterfinal opponent Norway being a key matchup. The World Cup has been marked by late goals, comebacks, and upsets, leading to questions about its legacy.

Miscellaneous Football News

A new species of sea slug has been named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. The Football Association at England's media center involving a man with a wrench. The 2026-27 football season's key dates have been released. In youth soccer, the pay-to-play model is cited as a reason for America's struggles in the World Cup.