Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

World Cup Semifinals Set; Player Transactions Heat Up

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are locked in, featuring the top four ranked teams in the world: Argentina, Spain, France, and England. Spain's Lamine Yamal expressed confidence, stating France should fear them in the upcoming semifinal clash. England's journey to the final four has been marked by resilience, including comeback victories, as they prepare to face Argentina and Lionel Messi. Jude Bellingham has been a standout performer for England, with Gary Neville describing his impact as something he's "never seen anything like". Meanwhile, Norway's World Cup run concluded with a 2-1 extra-time loss to England, with Erling Haaland unable to carry his team past the quarterfinals.

In club news, Aston Villa is reportedly working on a deal for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, potentially hijacking Newcastle United's pursuit. Newcastle may miss out on Manzambi, who appears set to join Villa. Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne has agreed to a deal to return to Paris Saint-Germain, with the French club paying his £10 million ($13.3m) release clause. Manchester United is also reportedly close to signing Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for approximately £36 million. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City.

Player Moves and Transfer Speculation Continue

The New England Revolution have extended the loan of U.S. Men's National Team goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026. Barcelona's "substantial offer" to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez is on a limited-time basis, according to club president Joan Laporta. Arsenal is reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Álvarez as well, with Barcola unavailable. Arsenal also wants to sign Álvarez from Atletico Madrid. Chelsea is looking at Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe as part of their search for attacking reinforcements. Manchester United has completed the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million.

In Scotland, Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expects to lose Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels this summer. Aberdeen has purchased winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee. Rangers midfielder is attracting interest from Italian and German clubs. Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year deal after leaving Barcelona.

Goalkeeper Preparations and Tactical Insights

Preparation for penalty shootouts is a crucial aspect of goalkeeping, with 39 knockout games decided from the spot since the shootout's World Cup debut in 1982. FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO are discussing protocols to prevent games from being played in excessive heat, a talking point throughout the 2026 World Cup due to mandated hydration breaks. The World Cup format for deciding tied games, involving extra time and penalties, is being questioned, with alternatives being explored.

Other Football News and World Cup Notes

The U.S. Women's National Team will host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches. Former Uruguay international Diego Forlán is in advanced talks to become the interim head coach of the national team. The Russian Football Union has taken steps to rebuild their national team, appointing Paolo Maldini as technical director. Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of, weeks after being dropped from World Cup officiating duties due to a UK police investigation. South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of, with police investigating the circumstances.

Cricket and Golf Updates

Jacob Bethell will open the batting for England in their opening one-day international against India at Edgbaston on Tuesday. England's Test team suffered a heavy defeat at Lord's to India, prompting discussions about a potential change in captaincy. Head coach Charlotte Edwards is prioritizing more red-ball cricket for the England side ahead of the 2027 Ashes. Brendon McCullum has apologized for England's recent Test results and stated his commitment to prioritizing all three formats of the game. Tommy Fleetwood is aiming for a historic hometown victory in The Open at Royal Birkdale. Rory McIlroy has been grouped with Xander Schauffele and Matt Fitzpatrick for the opening rounds of The Open. Tom Kim secured his fourth PGA Tour title at the Genesis Scottish Open, while Robert Mac Intyre narrowly missed out on a home victory.