Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Set Stage for Semifinal Showdowns

Jude Bellingham scored twice, including a winner in extra time, to lead England to a 2-1 victory over Norway and secure a spot in the World Cup semifinals struck twice. The young midfielder has been a standout performer throughout the tournament, with Paul Merson stating Bellingham possesses the "X-factor" needed to win the World Cup has it. England's resilience was further tested and strengthened by comeback wins against Mexico and Norway comeback successes. However, England's journey to the semifinals has not been without its challenges, as Declan Rice was sidelined for nearly three days prior to the Norway match due to a sickness bug was in bed. Marc Guéhi also emerged as an injury concern with a hamstring issue before the quarterfinal, though he and Reece James ultimately received an injury boost and were expected to be fit. Norway's World Cup campaign concluded with the 2-1 loss, ending Erling Haaland's impressive run in the tournament. The debate over whether Bellingham's equalizer should have counted due to potential interference with the spidercam continued, though Norway's coach acknowledged England were favorites leave frustrated.

Argentina advanced to the semifinals after a hard-fought victory over Switzerland, though it was not Lionel Messi who provided the decisive moments, but rather his supporting cast. Lionel Messi is now set for his first-ever World Cup match against England after Argentina's quarterfinal win. The question of whether Messi should continue taking penalties for Argentina has been raised following a recent miss from the spot. Spain also secured their place in the World Cup semifinals, with Mikel Merino scoring the late winner against Belgium. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, discussed the team's identity and the emergence of young talent like Lamine Yamal. France, considered favorites by many, advanced past Morocco with Kylian Mbappé allaying injury concerns after the match. The World Cup has reached a stage where the top four ranked teams have all made the semifinals for the first time in history.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Signings

Transfer rumors continue to swirl, with Wolves star João Gomes reportedly attracting interest from both Manchester United and Liverpool, potentially diverting him from a move to Atlético Madrid. Manchester United are also reportedly interested in Nottingham Forest's Neco Williams, facing competition for his signature are interested in Nottingham Forest's Neco Williams. Chelsea is looking to make Alejandro Garnacho's move permanent, preferring a full sale over a loan, with a price tag of €50 million. Former Manchester United player Mason Greenwood is reportedly considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid as he looks for his next club is considering offers. Barcelona is closing in on signing Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, with an offer reportedly made have made an offer. In other transfer news, Manchester City has signed winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City have completed the signing.

On the women's side, Liverpool club record signing Denise O'Sullivan is expected to depart the club just six months after joining, with Gotham FC finalizing a deal for her transfer is expected to leave. Arsenal has confirmed the signing of Ona Batlle from Barcelona upon the expiry of her contract. West Ham United has signed England forward Ebony Salmon on a two-year deal. Rangers have completed the signing of midfielder Cammy Devlin after his departure from Hearts have completed the signing of Cammy Devlin.

Managerial Changes and Player News

Senegal has sacked manager Pape Thiaw following the team's exit from the World Cup in the last-32 stage. Jürgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, taking over from Julian Nagelsmann agrees a deal in principle. Burnley has appointed Genk boss Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year contract. The Italian football federation has hired Paolo Maldini as technical director as part of their national team rebuild.

In player news, midfielder Jordan Henderson joked about his broken arm, sustained while celebrating England's round of 16 World Cup win. A study has found that former elite footballers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, with evidence of reduced brain volume and difficulties with thinking skills. The passing of Argentine football great Antonio Rattín at the age of 89 was reported; he was known for his sending-off at the 1966 World Cup, which contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of, having featured in all of his country's World Cup group matches.

Other Sports and Notable Events

In cricket, Sophie Ecclestone became England Women's leading wicket-taker across all formats as the team dismissed India for 285 on the opening day of the first women's Test at Lord's. England's T20 team is on the verge of reaching the world summit, sitting at the top of the rankings after a dominant series victory over India. In tennis, Britain's Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid secured their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title. Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara also claimed their second Wimbledon men's doubles title. Novak Djokovic expressed a desire to return to Wimbledon at least one more time.

In golf, Haeran Ryu shot the lowest round in major championship history at the Amundi Evian Championship, carding a 60. In horse racing, Billy Loughnane continued his successful season by steering Comanche Brave to victory in the July Cup Stakes. The Premier Sports Cup saw holders St Mirren begin their defense with a win, while Linlithgow caused a shock defeat. In rugby league, Leigh Leopards won against Castleford Tigers to keep their play-off hopes alive held on for a nervy 24-18 win, while Leeds Rhinos extended their lead at the top of the table with a win over Catalans Dragons.