Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinalists Set, Talking Points Emerge

The top four ranked teams in FIFA's rankings – Argentina, Spain, France, and England – have all reached the World Cup semifinals for the first time in history. England booked their spot after a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice. Despite manager Thomas Tuchel's assertion that England were "lucky" in their quarterfinal win, Bellingham defended his teammates, stating they "got lucky". The debate over whether Bellingham's equalizer should have stood, due to a potential spidercam touch, continues, though "Snicko" analysis suggested the ball did not hit it. Norway's Erling Haaland, whose World Cup journey ended with the loss, was unable to lift his nation past England. Alf-Inge Haaland, Erling's father, claimed Norway were "robbed" but expressed hope England would go on to win the tournament. Argentina advanced thanks to a strong performance from Julián Álvarez, who stepped up when Lionel Messi was effectively neutralized by Switzerland's defense. Spain, who defeated Belgium, relied on an unlikely match-winner in Mikel Merino to secure their semifinal berth, with Lamine Yamal still awaiting his moment to truly shine. Spain will face France in their semifinal, with Lamine Yamal expressing confidence that France should be fearful. The highly anticipated England vs. Argentina semifinal will reignite a historic rivalry.

Transfer Buzz and Club Moves Amidst Tournament Action

Transfer rumors continue to swirl, with Arsenal reportedly targeting Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, while also showing interest in Aston Villa's Johan Manzambi. Chelsea are looking at Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe as part of their pursuit of attacking reinforcements. Liverpool's record signing Denise O'Sullivan is expected to depart the club just six months after joining, with Gotham FC finalizing a loan deal for the midfielder. Manchester United are reportedly interested in Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Barcelona are reportedly close to signing Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund. Manchester City have completed the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City. Wolves have signed Comoros winger Rafiki Said on a three-year deal. Coventry City have signed Loum Tchaouna from Burnley for an undisclosed fee. West Ham have signed England forward Ebony Salmon on a two-year deal. Aberdeen have sold Topi Keskinen to Odense after receiving a "very good offer". Rangers have completed the signing of Cammy Devlin following his departure from Hearts.

Other Football News and Player Highlights

In other football news, former England head coach Andy Flower has been backed by Nasser Hussain to replace Brendon McCullum as Test head coach. Burnley have appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year deal. John McGlynn believes Falkirk will receive "more respect" in the upcoming campaign, though matching last season's success will be a challenge. A new study indicates that footballers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety and may experience reduced brain volume. The Italian football federation has hired Paolo Maldini as technical director as part of a national team rebuild. FIFA boss Gianni Infantino is considering plans for a 64-team World Cup after the 2026 tournament. Senegal have sacked manager Pape Thiaw following their World Cup exit. The Argentine football association has signaled it may have suffered a cyber attack after emails criticizing refereeing were reportedly sent. A new species of sea slug has been named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates has died at the age of 94. South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of 25. Argentine midfielder Antonio Rattín, who played in the 1966 World Cup, has died at 89.

Other Sports News and Results

In darts, Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Jermaine Wattimena 8-6 to win the European Darts Open title. Danny Noppert revealed he received social media abuse following his loss at the same event. In rugby league, Toulouse secured a dominant 46-0 victory over St Helens, with Mathieu Jussaume scoring a hat-trick. Leigh Leopards edged out Castleford Tigers 24-18 to keep their playoff hopes alive. Leeds Rhinos extended their lead at the top of the table with a 28-6 win over Catalans Dragons, aided by a hat-trick from Brodie Croft. Wigan's youngsters defeated Warrington to maintain pressure on Leeds at the top of the Betfred Super League. In golf, Tom Kim secured his fourth PGA Tour title with a two-shot victory at the Genesis Scottish Open, while Robert Mac Intyre fell short of a home win. Rory McIlroy acknowledged issues in his game that need fixing ahead of The Open despite a strong finish at the Scottish Open. Haeran Ryu won her second consecutive major title at the Amundi Evian Championship after a playoff victory over Brooke Henderson. In horse racing, Thesecretadversary claimed the Prix Jean Prat in Deauville following its Royal Ascot success. Comanche Brave, ridden by Billy Loughnane, secured a sprinting success in the July Cup Stakes at Newmarket. Blue Bolt remained unbeaten this season with a victory in the Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket. 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 claimed their seventh Wimbledon wheelchair doubles title. In cycling, the Belgian Grand Prix is scheduled to take place from July 17-19. In boxing, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff is a potential venue for the Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury fight, with a late start time not being an issue. In cricket, Sophie Ecclestone became England Women's leading wicket-taker across all formats during the first Women's Test at Lord's against India.