Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set as England Faces Argentina, France Takes on Spain

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are set, featuring a star-studded lineup of the top four ranked teams in the world. England will face Argentina in a highly anticipated clash, while France takes on Spain in the other semifinal. England's path to the final four included a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway. Despite some tactical concerns raised by head coach Thomas Tuchel, England has shown a remarkable ability to win games. The team's resilience has been a key factor, with a belief strengthened by comeback wins. Bellingham has been a standout performer throughout the tournament, with Gary Neville describing his impact as giving him "goosebumps" and stating he is England's superstar. However, Norway's quarterfinal exit was not without controversy, as they argued that Bellingham's equalizer against them should not have counted, citing a potential ball-to-spidercam contact. Meanwhile, France's head coach Didier Deschamps is anticipating a "spectacular game" against Spain as his team prepares for the semifinal. Spain's young sensation Lamine Yamal believes France should fear his team, stating they are ready to challenge. The Spanish secured their spot in the semifinals thanks to a winning goal from Mikel Merino in a tight match against Belgium. Journalists and fans from the four semifinalist nations offer their perspectives on who will ultimately lift the trophy as the tournament nears its climax. The World Cup has also seen discussions around the use of hydration breaks, which have been a talking point throughout the competition mandated by FIFA.

Player Movements and Transfer Rumors Swirl Amidst Tournament Action

The transfer market remains active even as the World Cup progresses, with several notable deals and rumors emerging. Paris Saint-Germain has reportedly agreed to a deal with Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne, paying his £10 million ($13. release clause to bring him back to Paris. In the women's game, the United States women's national team will host world No. 1 and reigning World Cup champions Spain for two friendly matches in October as announced by U.S. Soccer. 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 securing his services for the MLS club. Spanish defender Mapi Leon has joined London City Lionesses on a three-year deal after departing Barcelona. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. Meanwhile, rumors persist about potential moves for several high-profile players. Arsenal is reportedly interested in signing Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid with Barcelona's offer for the forward potentially expiring. Manchester United is said to be pursuing Álvarez as well, with Barcelona's president warning that their "substantial offer" has a limited window before it expires. Chelsea is looking at Bologna winger Jonathan Rowe as part of their pursuit of attacking reinforcements as part of their transfer strategy.

Club News and Managerial Moves Highlight Off-Field Developments

Beyond the World Cup, club football continues to see significant developments. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated his desire to keep Enzo Fernandez at the club. Alonso also commented on his decision to join Chelsea over Liverpool, citing it as a matter of "timings". In Scotland, Celtic manager Martin O'Neill anticipates losing players like Arne Engels and Daizen Maeda this summer. Aberdeen has acquired winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee with manager Stephen Robinson having previously tried to sign him. On the coaching front, Jurgen Klopp has reportedly agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team. In other news, former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates has passed away at the age of 94 leaving a significant mark on English football.

Tragedy and Tributes Mark Recent Football News

The football world has been saddened by the recent passing of several figures. Police are investigating the death of South Africa's World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered in Cape Town over the weekend. Adams, featured in all three of his country's group matches at the World Cup. In Argentina, former Boca Juniors player Antonio Rattín, whose sending-off at the 1966 World Cup led to the introduction of yellow and red cards, has died at the age of 89 a significant figure in football history. Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has also died at the age of 38.

Other Sports News and Notes

In other sporting news, Sir Nick Faldo has expressed his belief that Bryson DeChambeau lacks strategy for links golf. Tommy Fleetwood is eager to chase a hometown major victory in The Open at Royal Birkdale. Rory McIlroy acknowledges issues in his game that need addressing ahead of The Open, despite finding positive signs at the Genesis Scottish Open. In cricket, England suffered a significant 270-run defeat to India in the first women's Test match at Lord's. England's head coach Charlotte Edwards is prioritizing more red-ball cricket for her team ahead of the 2027 Ashes. In rugby league, Toulouse secured a dominant 46-0 victory over St Helens with Mathieu Jussaume scoring a hat-trick. In darts, Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Jermaine Wattimena 8-6 to win the European Darts Open in a close final.