Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

World Cup Quarterfinals and Semifinals Take Center Stage

England advanced to the World Cup semifinals after defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time, fueled by a brace from Jude Bellingham struck twice. Erling Haaland's World Cup journey concluded as Norway fell in the quarterfinals ended in a -2-1. Controversy arose as Norway questioned whether Jude Bellingham's equalizer should have counted, with "Snicko" technology suggesting it did not hit a spidercam. Despite the debate, England moved on, with player ratings highlighting Bellingham's stellar performance throughout the tournament. England captain Harry Kane downplayed comparisons to Haaland, stating his team was ready for the tournament's later stages. Marc Guéhi and John Stones were expected to start in central defense for England's quarterfinal match. However, Guéhi was later deemed a serious doubt for the quarterfinal due to a hamstring issue. Meanwhile, France continued their dominant run, cruising into the semifinals by defeating Morocco. Kylian Mbappé allayed injury concerns after a knock on his ankle during France's win. Spain also secured a semifinal spot with Mikel Merino scoring the late winner against Belgium. Merino's impact from the bench was remarkable, transitioning from a mobility scooter user to a World Cup hero in six months. Spain's U19 team previously captured the Uefa Men's Under-19 Championship, defeating Germany 2-0. Lamine Yamal expressed confidence that France should fear Spain in their semifinal clash.

International Football News and Transfers

Paolo Maldini and Leonardo have been hired as part of a rebuild for the Italian national team. Argentine football legend Antonio Rattín, whose sending-off in the 1966 World Cup contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards, has died at the age of 89 has died at 89. In transfer news, Manchester City have signed winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City completed the signing. Barcelona are reportedly nearing a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi, with an offer now made made an offer. Liverpool and Manchester United have reportedly made contact regarding midfielder Joao Gomes. Gotham FC is finalizing a deal to sign veteran midfielder Denise O'Sullivan on loan from Liverpool FC finalizing a deal. Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Ona Batlle from Barcelona. Wolves have signed winger Rafiki Said from Standard Liege on a three-year contract. Bournemouth defender Alex Jimenez is set for a loan move to Fiorentina amidst an ongoing investigation by his club. Coventry City has signed winger Loum Tchaouna from Burnley for an undisclosed fee signed winger. Manchester United are rumored to be interested in Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill rumored to be interested.

Other Football and Sports News

Jürgen Klopp has reportedly agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, succeeding Julian Nagelsmann. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams, who played in the World Cup, has died at the age of 25. Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates, a significant figure in English football, has died at the age of 94. The BBC reported that a Fifa official refused to answer questions regarding the decision-making process that led to Folarin Balogun not receiving a ban after a red card. Argentina's football association is investigating a potential cyber attack after emails criticizing refereeing in their win over Egypt were reportedly leaked signals it may have suffered. Manchester City midfielder Rico Lewis discussed his faith and charity work aimed at tackling homelessness. England captain Harry Kane described a past golfing experience with then-US President Donald Trump as "surreal" describing the experience. In other sports, Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara won their second Wimbledon men's doubles title. Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid secured their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title. Haeran Ryu shot the lowest round in major championship history at the Amundi Evian Championship, carding a 60 carding 60.