Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set: Argentina Edges England, Spain Dominates France

Argentina has booked its spot in the World Cup final after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England. Lionel Messi provided the decisive cross in stoppage time, as England captain Harry Kane admitted their attempt to hold onto a 1-0 lead backfired. The intense match saw Jude Bellingham spark a melee by slapping an Argentina substitute. Meanwhile, Spain sealed their place in the World Cup final with a convincing 2-0 win over France book their place in the final. France coach Didier Deschamps conceded his team "wasn't good enough to beat Spain", with Kylian Mbappé appearing to question the tactical approach after the defeat. FIFA defended the referee of the France-Spain semifinal following criticism from Deschamps. The tournament has also seen its share of superfans, with some players, like Harry Kane, contemplating their future World Cup participation.

Transfer Market Buzz: Olise to Madrid, Man Utd Active, and More

Transfer rumors continue to swirl as Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise reportedly desires a move to Real Madrid this summer. Manchester United is actively participating in the transfer window, adapting their plans but expecting more signings. There's speculation that Arsenal is exploring a swap deal involving Viktor Gyökeres and Julián Álvarez. Rangers have agreed to a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder, while Celtic is reportedly listening to offers for their strikers. Mason Greenwood has signed with Fenerbahçe after departing Marseille signed for Fenerbahçe. Aston Villa has confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer from Everton. Meanwhile, West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville is a target for Manchester United, and Arsenal is reportedly preparing an offer for Norway winger Antonio Nusa.

Player News and Departures: Solo's Collection, Ugarte's Surgery, and Greenwood's Move

Items from two-time Olympic gold medalist and World Cup champion Hope Solo's personal collection are heading to auction. Manchester United player Manuel Ugarte has undergone surgery after sustaining a knee injury during the World Cup. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed with Fenerbahçe, marking his third club in three years signed for Fenerbahçe. Former Premier League winger Jordon Ibe has admitted to assaulting his former partner. Former Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks has moved to Italian side Cagliari for an undisclosed fee. Chelsea has agreed to a deal worth approximately £850,000 to sign Manchester United striker Melvine Malard.

Club Signings and Roster Moves Across Leagues

Rangers are reportedly in talks with Leicester City over winger Mavididi. Bournemouth is in discussions to sign Benfica defender Antonio Silva as a replacement for Marcos Senesi. Arsenal remains interested in Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta warning that their "substantial offer" has a limited time frame. Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur are all showing interest in Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup interested in winger. Newly promoted Women's Super League club Crystal Palace has signed striker Bethany England on a free transfer. London City Lionesses have secured Spanish defender Mapi Leon on a three-year deal following her exit from Barcelona.

USMNT and Women's Soccer Updates

USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed hurt over the backlash following the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The United States women's national team is scheduled to host world No. 1 Spain twice in October for friendly matches. The New England Revolution announced an extension of goalkeeper Matt Turner's loan from Lyon through the end of 2026 re-sign on loan. Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency, Klutch Sports, following a notable World Cup performance. Sam Kerr made her return to Gotham FC, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit in front of a record-breaking crowd.

Managerial Movements and Coaching News

Thomas Tuchel has stated his intention to remain as England's manager through Euro 2028 despite the World Cup semifinal defeat. Tuchel retains the backing of the Football Association despite England's failure to reach the World Cup final. Croatia has reappointed former defender Slaven Bilic as the manager of their men's national team reappointed as manager. Chelsea's new manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed Reece James will continue as captain and expressed his desire for Enzo Fernandez to remain at the club. Alonso indicated that his move to Chelsea, rather than Liverpool, was a matter of timing.

Miscellaneous Football News and Notes

FIFA's director of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the referee in the France-Spain semifinal after criticism from France coach Didier Deschamps. Argentina faces potential disciplinary action from FIFA due to a banner displayed by their players after their semifinal win against England. FIFA has announced revamped structures for its men's World Cup tournaments, including new 'Super Series' and 'Super 7' rounds for next year's 50-over tournament. The independent football regulator has issued a warning to Morecambe after their owners failed to respond to information requests. Cardiff City intends to appeal a French judge's decision to dismiss the club's claim for over £100 million in compensation following the death of Emiliano Sala.