Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set

England has advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway reached the semifinals. Jude Bellingham was the hero for England, scoring both goals, including the winner in extra time struck twice. Norway's World Cup journey concluded with the quarterfinal loss, with Erling Haaland unable to find the net ended the tournament. The debate over a potential spidercam incident before England's equalizer continued, though Norway remained unsure about its impact left frustrated. Meanwhile, Argentina also booked their place in the final four, relying on Julian Álvarez's brilliance rather than Lionel Messi to overcome Switzerland's defense stepped up. Spain secured their semifinal spot by defeating Belgium, with Mikel Merino emerging as an unlikely match-winner off the bench. France is also through, with Kylian Mbappé dismissing injury concerns after their quarterfinal win over Morocco downplayed concerns. The top four ranked teams have all reached the semifinals for the first time in World Cup history made the semi-final.

Player Movement and Club News

Transfer rumors continue to swirl, with Wolves star João Gomes reportedly attracting interest from both Manchester United and Liverpool. Denise O'Sullivan, Liverpool's club-record signing, is expected to depart just six months after joining, with a loan deal to Gotham FC being finalized finalize a deal. In other club news, Manchester City has secured the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City completed the signing. Barcelona is reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi closing in on the signing. Rangers have also been active, with Cammy Devlin joining the club after his exit from Hearts completed the signing. Meanwhile, former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates has passed away at the age of 94 died at 94.

International Management and Player News

Senegal has sacked manager Pape Thiaw following their exit from the World Cup. In a significant development, Jürgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of the German national team agreed a deal. The Italian football federation is rebuilding its national team with the hiring of Paolo Maldini as technical director. A new study indicates that former elite footballers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, with evidence also showing reduced brain volume finds evidence. World Cup standout Jude Bellingham is being compared to legends of the past as he prepares to face Lionel Messi in the semifinals. Argentina's midfield great Antonio Rattín, whose sending-off in the 1966 World Cup influenced the introduction of red and yellow cards, has died at the age of 89. South Africa's World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25. England has introduced new behavioral guidelines for its players.

Youth and Domestic Football

Spain has claimed the UEFA Men's Under-19 Championship for the 10th time, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final. In domestic leagues, Leeds Rhinos extended their lead at the top of the table with a victory over Catalans Dragons. Leigh Leopards kept their play-off hopes alive with a narrow win against Castleford Tigers held on for a nervy win. Manchester City is trialing an initiative to offer local residents Premier League matchday tickets for £10 next season trial an initiative. Burnley has appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year deal.