Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 11, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals and Semifinals Heat Up

Spain is advancing to the World Cup semifinals after beating Belgium. Midfielder Mikel Merino scored the lone goal in Spain's 1-0 victory, a win that saw them advance despite not consistently scoring freely despite boasting Lamine Yamal. Yamal, however, is confident, stating France should fear Spain in their semifinal clash. Meanwhile, England is preparing to face Norway in their quarterfinal match. Marc Guehi has recovered from his fitness race and is expected to start alongside John Stones in central defense. Erling Haaland, a talisman for Norway, is seen as a key figure for his nation, with some suggesting a different path could have seen him play for England. Jude Bellingham and Martin Ødegaard, both No. 10s who have faced recent criticism, are finding top form heading into these crucial matches.

Youth and National Team Rebuilds

Spain has claimed the UEFA Men's Under-19 Championship for the 10th time, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final held at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground. In a significant move for Italian football, the national federation has hired Paolo Maldini as technical director and a former World Cup winner to lead a rebuild of their national team. Jurgen Klopp has also agreed in principle to become the new head coach of Germany's men's national team, succeeding Julian Nagelsmann.

Transfer Activity and Player Moves

Manchester City has secured the signing of winger Jeremy Monga from Leicester City. In other transfer news, Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly making contact regarding Joao Gomes. Chelsea is also opening talks for Jonathan Rowe, and an MLS side is looking to sign Mohamed Salah. Bournemouth defender Alex Jimenez is set for a loan move to Fiorentina, pending an investigation by his current club. Coventry City has signed winger Loum Tchaouna from Burnley for an undisclosed fee.

Other Sports News

In boxing, Joe Joyce suffered a stoppage loss in Moscow and may need to consider retirement. Leigh Leopards maintained their play-off hopes with a 24-18 victory over Castleford Tigers in rugby league. Wakefield Trinity inflicted Hull KR's first home defeat in a year, with Caius Faatili scoring two tries. In cricket, England's women's team is facing a tough battle to avoid defeat in the first Test at Lord's after India dominated day two. On the golf course, Haeran Ryu shot the lowest round in major championship history at the Amundi Evian Championship, carding a 60 to take a three-shot lead. Billy Loughnane continued his successful season by steering Comanche Brave to victory in the July Cup Stakes. Britain's Henry Patten and Finland's Harri Heliovaara won their second Wimbledon men's doubles title.

Tragic Loss and League Updates

South Africa's World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams has died at the age of. In the Premier Sports Cup, holders St Mirren started their defense with a 4-0 win, while second-tier Greenock Morton suffered a surprise defeat. The passing of former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates at 94 has been noted.