Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set as Favorites Advance

The top four ranked teams in FIFA — Argentina, Spain, France, and England — have all advanced to the World Cup semifinals made the semifinal. Argentina overcame Switzerland in extra time, with Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal netted the winner. Spain's path to the semifinals saw them eliminate Belgium, thanks to another late hero in Merino. France, led by the formidable Kylian Mbappé, dispatched Morocco, while England edged out Norway 2-1 in a hard-fought quarterfinal. Jude Bellingham was instrumental in England's victory, scoring twice and earning widespread praise. Norway's World Cup journey, featuring Erling Haaland, concluded with the loss to England. England's resilience has been a key theme, with their ability to come back from behind strengthening their belief. Despite some tactical concerns from manager Thomas Tuchel, England's winning mentality persists. The upcoming semifinal clash between England and Argentina carries significant historical weight, and Lionel Messi is set for his first-ever match against England.

Transfer Market Buzzes Amidst Tournament Play

Transfer rumors continue to circulate even with the World Cup in full swing. Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, with reports suggesting they are turning to him as a primary target with another option unavailable. Aston Villa appear to have hijacked Newcastle's move for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi. Manchester United are rumored to be interested in Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill, and there are doubts surrounding their potential £35m deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. Chelsea are looking at Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe as part of their attacking reinforcement search, while they are also prepared to permanently sell Alejandro Garnacho for €50 million. Barcelona are reportedly close to signing Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool previously held talks with Kylian Mbappé in 2017. In the NWSL, Gotham FC are finalizing a loan deal for veteran midfielder Denise O'Sullivan from Liverpool.

Club and National Team News Beyond the World Cup

Beyond the World Cup, club football sees several key developments. Jurgen Klopp has agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team. In Scotland, Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expects to lose Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels, while Rangers are reportedly closing in on Cammy Devlin after his exit from Hearts closing in on Cammy Devlin. Burnley have appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year deal. In the Betfred Super League, Toulouse secured an impressive 46-0 victory over St Helens, and Leeds Rhinos extended their lead at the top of the table with a win over Catalans Dragons. In golf, Tom Kim ended a 1,001-day wait for a PGA Tour title at the Genesis Scottish Open, while Rory McIlroy is looking to address issues in his game ahead of The Open. In darts, Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Jermaine Wattimena 8-6 to win the European Darts Open.

Emerging Talents and Player Milestones

The 2026 World Cup has also served as a platform for breakout stars to emerge. Spain's Lamine Yamal has expressed confidence ahead of their semifinal clash with France. There's also a discussion surrounding the format of football's tie-breaking system, with alternatives to extra time and penalties being considered flawed system. A study has indicated that footballers are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. In a unique tribute, a new species of sea slug has been named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha. The legacy of Just Fontaine, the World Cup's single-tournament leading scorer with 13 goals, is also highlighted Fontaine's record. Antonio Rattín, the Argentine great whose sending-off at the 1966 World Cup led to the introduction of red and yellow cards, has died at the age of 89.