Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

World Cup Semifinals Set: England to Face Argentina in Highly Anticipated Clash

The final four of the 2026 World Cup are set, featuring the top four ranked teams as per FIFA's standings A-List. England will face Argentina in a semifinal match loaded with historical significance. Captain Harry Kane has emphasized that England cannot get caught up in the emotional history of the fixture against their rivals. American referee Ismail Elfath has been appointed to officiate the high-stakes encounter. The rivalry between the two nations extends beyond the pitch, with deep-rooted historical context. Despite some questioning England's performances, manager Thomas Tuchel insists the squad is "completely together". Declan Rice has been confirmed fit and available to start for England. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi is looking to lead Argentina to a third World Cup final, with his evolution as a player highlighted. This will be the first time Messi has played against England in a World Cup.

Other Semifinalists and Tournament Talking Points

In the other semifinal, France will face Spain in what is anticipated to be a "spectacular" match. France manager Didier Deschamps deflected questions about his team's favorite status, projecting a thrilling contest against Spain. The semifinal lineup comprises the top four FIFA-ranked teams, a rare occurrence in the tournament's history. Various tactical analyses are being presented, comparing the attacking styles of the remaining four nationsgives squadvs ArgentinaComparing last. FIFA president Gianni Infantino's ties with Donald Trump have reportedly led to a complaint filed with the International Olympic Committee. The mandated hydration breaks, a talking point throughout the tournament, are being assessed for potential future implementation. There is also ongoing discussion about the format for deciding tied cup games, with alternatives being explored. FIFA and FIFPRO are also in talks regarding heat protocols to prevent games being played in excessive temperatures.

Player Movements and Club Preparations

Following a breakout World Cup, United States forward Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency, Klutch Sports. Manchester United have been active in the transfer market, securing Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million. The club is also reportedly pursuing Youri Tielemans, who is undergoing a medical. Chelsea's new manager, Xabi Alonso, has outlined his pre-season plans and expressed his desire to keep Enzo Fernandez at the club. Bournemouth have completed the club-record signing of striker Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for up to £25.7 million. In the Women's Super League, Everton have signed France forward Noemie Mouchon from Leicester City on a free transfer. London City Lionesses are set to sign French forward Kadidiatou Diani and have also agreed a one-year contract extension with captain Kosovare Asllani. Brighton have made a club-record signing of Luka Vuskovic from Spurs. Arsenal have signed Germany forward Lisa Baum from RB Leipzig and confirmed Leandro Trossard's move to Besiktas.

Other Football News and Player Updates

Wrexham are preparing for friendlies against Premier League opponents as they look to improve for the Championship. Liverpool's new head coach, Andoni Iraola, has stated the club needs to sign more players. Celtic's summer is marked by uncertainty, despite their championship status. Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlán is reportedly in advanced talks to become Uruguay's interim head coach. There are plans for a 64-team men's World Cup to be assessed after the 2026 tournament. The USWNT will host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches. Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has called for tolerance following comments made by a former Prime Minister.

Cricket and Golf News

In cricket, Shubman Gill's unbeaten 80 propelled India to a six-wicket victory over England in the opening ODI series match at Edgbaston. England suffered a significant 270-run defeat to India in the first women's Test match at Lord's. Head coach Charlotte Edwards has prioritized incorporating more red-ball cricket into the England side's preparation for the 2027 Ashes. Brendon McCullum has apologized for England's recent Test results and will work with his replacement to prioritize all formats. Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy are downplaying the importance of legacy as they prepare for The Open. McIlroy acknowledges needing to fix aspects of his game despite finding positive signs at the Genesis Scottish Open. Tom Kim secured his fourth PGA Tour title at the Genesis Scottish Open, while Robert Mac Intyre missed out on a home victory.

Other Sports and Events

The 2026 Matchplay darts tournament is approaching, with details about the men's and women's tournaments available. Krzysztof Ratajski won the European Darts Open title, defeating Jermaine Wattimena in the final. Mathieu Jussaume scored a hat-trick as Toulouse secured an emphatic 46-0 victory over St Helens in the Super League. Conor McGregor is set to undergo surgery after his fight with Max Holloway was stopped due to a knee injury, but he hopes to compete again. Formula 1 is heading into a crucial Belgium-Hungary double header before the summer break.