Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set with Heavyweight Clashes

England have advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a dramatic 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. The win came despite manager Thomas Tuchel's assertion that England were "lucky," a sentiment Bellingham disagreed with. Norway's World Cup journey, led by star striker Erling Haaland, ended in the quarterfinals. Haaland, who has been Norway's talisman throughout the tournament, couldn't find the net against England. England's grit and belief, forged through comeback wins against Mexico and Norway, will be tested next against Lionel Messi's Argentina belief strengthened. Argentina themselves needed their supporting cast to step up against Switzerland, as Lionel Messi was effectively muted by the Swiss defense. The semifinals will feature heavyweight contests, with France facing Spain and England taking on Argentina heavyweight meetings. For the first time since FIFA rankings have been available, the top four ranked teams have all reached the World Cup semifinals.

Player Performances and Transfer Buzz

Jude Bellingham's performances have been a major storyline of the World Cup, with his brace against Norway drawing comparisons to past legends and even earning him goosebumps from Gary Neville. Bellingham is being hailed as England's current superstar, eclipsing even a seemingly anonymous Erling Haaland in the quarterfinal clash eclipses Haaland. Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic's World Cup on home soil did not meet expectations, with the USMNT star failing to shine for a number of reasons. In transfer news, Wolves star João Gomes is reportedly being eyed by Manchester United and Liverpool, with a move to Atlético Madrid now looking less likely. Manchester United are also rumored to be interested in signing Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Manchester City have been active, completing the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City signing of winger and Niamh Charles from Chelsea. Chelsea, however, are looking to permanently sell Alejandro Garnacho for €50 million.

Club and National Team News

In club management, Jurgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, replacing Julian Nagelsmann. Brendon McCullum will depart his role as England's Test head coach but will continue to lead the white-ball teams. Nasser Hussain has backed former England coach Andy Flower to replace McCullum. Falkirk manager John McGlynn anticipates his team will receive more respect in the upcoming campaign and acknowledges matching last season's performance will be a challenge will be a challenge. Senegal have sacked manager Pape Thiaw following their exit from the World Cup at the last-32 stage. The Italian football federation is undertaking a rebuild, hiring Paolo Maldini as technical director.

Emerging Talent and Player Milestones

The 2026 World Cup has also been a platform for emerging talents, with players like Diomande and Freeman making their mark alongside established superstars. Spain claimed their 10th Uefa Men's Under-19 Championship title with a 2-0 victory over Germany claim the championship. Mikel Merino has become an unlikely hero for Spain, scoring the winner off the bench against Belgium to send them to the semifinals. Merino's journey from the bench to World Cup hero in six months is a remarkable turnaround. Sophie Ecclestone became England Women's leading wicket-taker across all formats during the first women's Test at Lord's against India leading wicket-taker.

Other Sports and Notable Events

In tennis, Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara secured their second Wimbledon men's doubles title. Alfie Hewett and Gordon Reid also continued their dominance at Wimbledon, winning their seventh wheelchair doubles title together. The Open Championship is set to feature new events and significant changes as the world's best golfers gather at Royal Birkdale. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25 Adams has died. Antonio Rattín, the Argentine great whose sending-off at the 1966 World Cup influenced the introduction of yellow and red cards, has passed away at 89.