Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set: England Faces Argentina in Major Clash

The 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals are here, featuring a highly anticipated showdown between England and Argentina set to clash. England manager Thomas Tuchel has considered a man-marking strategy to nullify Lionel Messi's threat, while Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, has downplayed political undertones, stating he will not "mix" football and politics not mixing politics. England has shown resilience, with Jude Bellingham being highlighted as the tournament's standout player, and captain Harry Kane emphasizing the team's unity. The Three Lions have reached four semifinals in the last five international tournaments, a testament to their consistent performance outstanding record. Argentina, inspired by the legacy of Diego Maradona, will be looking to overcome England, a fixture steeped in history and emotion, including past controversies like the Falklands War. Lionel Messi's evolution in this World Cup, with an impressive goal tally goal-scoring evolution, is a key factor for Argentina. The half-time break for the World Cup final is expected to be extended to 20-25 minutes.

Spain Dominates France, Secures World Cup Final Berth

Spain has booked its place in the 2026 World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the semifinals defeats France. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente declared his team is "feeling unbeatable" heading into the final. French media delivered a harsh assessment of their national team's performance after the semifinal exit, with head coach Didier Deschamps admitting his team was "not good enough to beat Spain". Kylian Mbappé appeared to question Deschamps' tactics following the loss question tactics, and Deschamps himself will depart from his role, with Zinedine Zidane being considered a potential successor. Spain's triumph marks the first time the top four ranked FIFA teams have reached the semifinals.

USMNT Faces Post-World Cup Uncertainty; Greenwood Joins Fenerbahçe

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is grappling with its World Cup elimination, with goalkeeper Matt Freese expressing hurt over the backlash following their round of 16 exit. The team's future coaching is also in question, with a list of 11 potential replacements for Mauricio Pochettino emerging. Meanwhile, former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed with Fenerbahçe signed for Fenerbahçe. In other transfer news, Juventus is reportedly considering a move for USMNT striker Folarin Balogun.

Transfer Market Buzz: Premier League and European Moves

The summer transfer window is heating up with several notable deals and rumors. Manchester United has completed the £50 million signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea and is still seeking to strengthen their midfield, with Youri Tielemans undergoing a medical. Arsenal remains interested in Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, with reports suggesting a potential swap deal involving Viktor Gyokeres. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup interested in Schjelderup. Bournemouth is in talks to sign Benfica defender Antonio Silva and has announced the signing of striker Alvaro Rodriguez for up to £25.7 million signing Rodriguez. Birmingham City has signed Millie Turner and Lisa Naalsund from Manchester United.

Club News and European Competitions

Hibs are set to face Kosovan side Malisheva in the second round of Conference League qualifying after Malisheva defeated Vllaznia 6-2 on aggregate. In Scotland, Dundee United and Falkirk suffered surprising defeats in the Scottish League Cup group stage. There are also reports of Rangers in talks with Leicester over a potential move for winger.

Player News and Injury Updates

Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte has undergone knee surgery following an injury at the World Cup.

Historical Football Notes

Coroner's inquests have ruled that Nobby Stiles, a 1966 World Cup winner, died with a condition caused by heading footballs. The match ball for the World Cup semifinals has been changed after 100 games. A 91-year-old Argentine journalist is covering his 18th World Cup. Former striker Diego Forlán is in advanced talks to become the interim head coach of the Uruguay national team.