Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

World Cup Quarterfinals Heat Up as England Faces Norway and France Advances

England's World Cup quarterfinal clash with Norway is drawing significant attention, with Norway's manager, Ståle Solbakken, stating England are the favorites to reach the semifinals. Erling Haaland, Norway's star striker, acknowledged his team's chances are "really low" and that the pressure is on England ahead of their Miami match. Despite this, Haaland remains the avatar for Norway and a significant threat. England received a triple injury boost with Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, and Reece James returning ahead of the Norway game. However, Marc Guehi is now a serious doubt for the quarterfinal with a hamstring strain. France, meanwhile, have cruised into the semifinals, with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge and downplaying concerns over a minor ankle knock. France's 2-0 victory over Morocco, secured by goals from Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, solidified their status as favorites to win the tournament.

Spain Edges Belgium, Eyes Semifinal Showdown with France

Spain has secured a spot in the World Cup semifinals after a narrow victory over Belgium, with midfielder Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in the 86th minute. Merino's late heroics capped off a remarkable six-month journey from needing a mobility scooter to becoming a World Cup hero. Despite the win, Spain is still awaiting a breakout performance from young star Lamine Yamal. Spain's boss, Luis de la Fuente, discussed his team's identity and the impact of Yamal ahead of their quarterfinal match. Belgium's World Cup campaign has ended, marked by a costly error from Senne Lammens, potentially signaling the end of their "golden generation". Spain's Lamine Yamal expressed confidence ahead of their semifinal against France, stating they should be feared.

Player News, Transfer Rumors, and Notable Departures

In significant player news, South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25. Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates also passed away at 94. On the transfer front, Manchester United are reportedly interested in Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Barcelona is close to a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi, with sources confirming a breakthrough in negotiations. Chelsea is prepared to sell Alejandro Garnacho for £50 million this summer. Manchester City has secured the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City. Ona Batlle will join Arsenal upon the expiry of her Barcelona contract.

Coaching Changes and Player Milestones

Jurgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation. Former Manchester United player Mason Greenwood is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid. Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has begun planning for the upcoming season. In a unique honor, a new species of sea slug has been named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha for his World Cup performance.

Other Sporting Headlines

In tennis, Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara won their second Wimbledon men's doubles title. Britain's Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid secured their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title. Jannik Sinner is the favorite to retain his Wimbledon men's singles title against Alexander Zverev. Novak Djokovic expressed his desire to return to Wimbledon at least one more time. In golf, Haeran Ryu shot the lowest-ever round in a major championship, carding a 60 at the Amundi Evian Championship. Rory McIlroy is part of a five-way tie for the lead after the first round of the Genesis Scottish Open. England's Sophie Ecclestone became the women's leading wicket-taker across all formats as England dismissed India for 285 at Lord's in a Test match.