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17 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Deliver Drama and Upsets

England has advanced to the World Cup semifinals after a hard-fought 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, with Jude Bellingham scoring both goals for the Three Lions struck twice. Erling Haaland's World Cup journey concluded as Norway fell ended in a 2-1 quarterfinal loss. Norway's coach Thomas Tuchel felt England got lucky, but match-winner Bellingham disagreed. The Norwegian side also questioned the validity of Bellingham's equalizer, suggesting the ball might have hit a spidercam before crossing the line, though "Snicko" analysis indicated otherwise arguing that Jude Bellingham's equaliser should not have counted. This marks the first time in FIFA rankings history that the top four ranked teams have reached the World Cup semifinals the top four ranked teams have made the semi-final. In another quarterfinal, Argentina's supporting cast stepped up to secure a win after their captain Lionel Messi was effectively neutralized by the Swiss defense. Switzerland's Breel Embolo made history as the first player to be sent off under a new mistaken identity rule at the World Cup becomes first player to be sent off.

Player Milestones and Off-Field News

Jude Bellingham continues to impress at the World Cup, drawing comparisons to legendary players like Lionel Messi with his recent performances. England midfielder Jordan Henderson humorously described breaking his arm while celebrating a previous win as "not my finest hour". Meanwhile, the football world mourns the passing of Argentine legend Antonio Rattín, who died at; his defiance at the 1966 World Cup contributed to the introduction of yellow and red cards. In the NWSL, defending champions Gotham FC are reportedly close to finalizing a deal to sign veteran midfielder Denise O'Sullivan on loan from Liverpool FC.

Mental Health and National Team Rebuilds

A new study has revealed concerning findings regarding the mental well-being of footballers, indicating they are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. The research also found evidence of reduced brain volume in former elite players, who reported difficulties with cognitive functions like thinking and decision-making. On the administrative front, the Italian football federation is undertaking a significant rebuild of their national team, appointing Paolo Maldini as technical director. Questions linger around FIFA's disciplinary committee, as the head of the committee declined to answer BBC inquiries regarding the decision-making process that allowed US striker Folarin Balogun to avoid a ban after a red card offense.