Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set: France vs. Spain, England vs. Argentina Headline Final Four

France head coach Didier Deschamps is bracing for a "spectacular game" when his squad faces Spain in the World Cup semifinals. Deschamps deflected questions about France's favorite status, reiterating his expectation of a thrilling encounter. Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has called for tolerance following comments from former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who suggested France lacks French players. Meanwhile, England captain Harry Kane insists his squad is "completely together" heading into their semifinal clash against Argentina. England will make a late decision on the fitness of Declan Rice for the match against Argentina. BBC Sport experts have picked their England World Cup semifinal XI, sparking debate among fans. Jude Bellingham has been the standout performer for England, with one pundit stating, "This is Bellingham's summer". England's grit has been a key factor in their comeback wins, and they now face Lionel Messi and Argentina. The top four ranked teams in FIFA's standings—Argentina, Spain, France, and England—have all reached the semifinals for the first time in World Cup history.

Player Movements and Transfer Rumors Abound Across Europe

The New England Revolution has extended the loan of U.S. Men's National Team goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026 extended the loan. Paris Saint-Germain has reached an agreement with Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne, paying his £10 million ($13.3 release clause to bring him back to Paris agreed a deal. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is determined to keep Enzo Fernandez at the club. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. Manchester United has completed the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million. Arsenal is reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, with Barcelona's offer for the forward set to expire. Aston Villa is assessing a move for Pervis Estupiñán, while Inter Milan has reportedly given up on signing Trevoh Chalobah. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill expects to lose Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels this summer. Wolves have signed winger Rafiki Said from Standard Liege on a three-year deal.

World Cup Notes and FIFA Discussions

FIFA's mandated three-minute hydration breaks have been a significant talking point throughout the 2026 World Cup have been a talking point. FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO are in discussions regarding protocols to prevent games from being played in excessive heat in discussions. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has opened the door to the possibility of a 64-team World Cup, suggesting that football should be "for the whole world". Police are investigating the death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered at a property in Cape Town. Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of, weeks after being removed from World Cup officiating duties due to a UK police investigation dies. Argentina's Antonio Rattín, a player whose defiance in the 1966 World Cup contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards, has passed away at 89.

Other Football News and Player Performances

Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a hero's welcome upon their return home following their World Cup campaign welcomed home. Norway's World Cup journey concluded with a 2-1 extra-time quarterfinal loss to England, with Haaland substituted late in the match. Jude Bellingham was instrumental in England's victory, scoring twice, and his performance has drawn widespread praise struck twice. England coach Thomas Tuchel expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance despite the win, calling them "lucky". However, Bellingham defended his teammates, while Norway questioned the validity of Bellingham's equalizer. Lamine Yamal believes Spain should be feared by France in their upcoming semifinal clash. Spain secured their semifinal spot with a narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium, thanks to a goal from Mikel Merino. Spain also claimed the U19 Euros title, defeating Germany 2-0. The USWNT will host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches. Actor Cristo Fernández made his professional debut in the USL for El Paso Locomotive.