Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 15, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinal Showdowns and Player Performances

Spain has after a commanding 2-0 victory over France, with Luis de la Fuente stating his team is. French coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged his team "wasn't good enough to beat Spain," citing a lack of technical soundness. Kylian Mbappé also following the semifinal defeat. Meanwhile, England is preparing to face Argentina in a highly anticipated semifinal, with coach Thomas Tuchel considering a man-marking strategy for Lionel Messi. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who described the rivalry as "not as bad" as some suggest, emphasized the team's focus on. Lionel Messi, who has 15 goals in the current and previous World Cups, is being heavily analyzed for his evolving role. Despite criticism, Argentina is drawing inspiration from Diego Maradona ahead of the clash with England. England captain Harry Kane has stressed the importance of not getting caught up in the historical narrative of the fixture, stating the team is "completely together". Jude Bellingham has been labeled the "best player at the World Cup" by former England striker Wayne Rooney. The match is heightened by increased security measures and the appointment of American.

Club Transfers and Squad Movements

Several clubs have been active in the transfer market. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe, while Manchester United is also reportedly considering a move for West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville and preparing an offer for Norway winger Antonio Nusa. Manchester United is also reportedly in the market for another midfielder despite the impending arrival of Youri Tielemans. Chelsea has agreed to a deal for Manchester United striker Melvine Malard and is assessing a move for Aston Villa's Lucas Digne, who has agreed to a deal for a return to Paris Saint-Germain. Arsenal is still interested in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, with reports suggesting a potential swap deal involving Viktor Gyokeres. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in Benfica. Aston Villa has signed goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free. Bournemouth is in talks to sign Benfica defender Antonio Silva and has announced the signing of striker Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for up to £25.7m. Leeds United has agreed to a £34.1m fee for defender Tarik. Hibernian will face Kosovan side Malisheva in the Conference League qualifying rounds.

Player News and International Squads

Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas will for the MLS All-Star Game on July 29 in Chicago. New Chicago Fire signing Robert Lewandowski stated he "couldn't imagine playing for another European club" after his stint with Barcelona. USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed hurt over the backlash following their World Cup elimination. Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a hero's welcome upon their return home after their World Cup achievements. The death of England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles has been linked to heading footballs, according to a coroner's ruling. Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte has undergone knee surgery after an injury at the World Cup. USWNT will host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches.

Off-Field Developments and Other Soccer News

Milan's public prosecutor has dropped a fraud case against former Italian referee designator Gianluca Rocchi and his deputy. FIFA's director of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the referee in the France-Spain semifinal after criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps. The ICC has announced revamped structures for its men's World Cup tournaments, including new 'Super Series' and. FIFA has submitted a complaint to the International Olympic Committee alleging FIFA president Gianni Infantino breached rules on political neutrality in his dealings with President Donald Trump. The independent football regulator has issued a warning to Morecambe after their owners failed to respond to information requests. Cardiff City will appeal a judge's decision to dismiss their £100m compensation claim following the death. A large seizure of fake Scotland and England football strips, estimated at 58,000, was made in Edinburgh. Post Malone is among the performers scheduled for the World Cup.