Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 16, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set; Argentina Advances Over England

Argentina secured dramatic over England in the World Cup semifinals, advancing to the final. Lionel Messi in stoppage time, earning him a 9/10 player rating. The win was dedicated to the late Diego Maradona, with Messi calling it "a gift." England's exit was a familiar story, with captain Harry Kane admitting their strategy to hold onto a 1-0 lead backfired. Coach Thomas Tuchel faced scrutiny despite retaining FA backing, and the team's mentality and tactics were questioned. The match drew an audience of 24 million viewers on the BBC alone. Argentina has also faced criticism and potential disciplinary action from FIFA for displaying a Falklands Islands banner after the match match .

Spain Dominates France, Reaches World Cup Final

Spain clinched their with a dominant 2-0 performance against France. Head coach Luis de la Fuente declared his team is "feeling unbeatable" heading into the championship match . France's coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged his team "wasn't good enough to beat Spain" , with Kylian Mbappé appearing to question the team's tactics after the semifinal defeat . FIFA's director of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the referee in the France-Spain semifinal after criticism from Deschamps .

World Cup Standings and Player Watch

Lionel Messi's evolution throughout the World Cup has been notable, with his goal tally significantly increasing across the 2022 and 2026 tournaments . Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni of his team's play leading up to the semifinal. ESPN is grading every team eliminated from the World Cup on how their tournament run compared to. With the World Cup nearing its end, players like Lamine Yamal are being highlighted as potential future stars .

Cricket Series and Player Retirements

England looking keep against India in the second one-day international at Sophia Gardens. Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon from football after a 25-year career, with Sky Sports noting he retired at the age of 43 .

Transfer News and Signings

Joao Gomes to Aston Villa following Wolves' relegation. Newcastle United's WSL 2 side has signed Scotland defender Rachel McLauchlan from Brighton. Rangers have reportedly agreed to a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder Dragojevic, while Celtic are listening to offers for a striker and a goalkeeper is undergoing a medical for Hearts . Manchester United are also active in the transfer market, with plans adapting for the summer window . Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe.

Other Football News

Goalkeeper Marius Muller hopes to celebrate after joining Aberdeen from Wolfsburg. Lawrence Shankland to establish himself at Rangers. The World Cup closing ceremony will feature performers like Post Malone and Tom Cruise. FIFA president Gianni Infantino to the IOC over alleged ties with President Donald Trump. The death of England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles to heading footballs.