Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Semifinalists Set for Blockbuster Clashes

The 2026 World Cup semifinals are set to feature the tournament's top four ranked teams, with Argentina, Spain, France, and England all advancing. These nations, the top four in FIFA's rankings entering the competition, are now just two wins away from lifting the trophy again. France and Argentina will face off in one semifinal, with England taking on Spain in the other. BBC Sport's Chris Sutton has offered his predictions for these crucial matches up next. Players and coaches are anticipating the challenge of facing stars like Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé, who will be on opposing sides in the semifinal clash.

Transfer Market Buzz and Player Movements

Arsenal are reportedly stepping up their efforts to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, with Barcelona also having a "substantial offer" on the table that could expire soon Laporta warned. Meanwhile, Aberdeen have secured the signing of winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee, a player manager Stephen Robinson had previously tried to sign for other clubs. In other transfer news, Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a £36m deal for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans and have completed a £50m signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea. However, a potential deal for Ederson has stalled due to a medical issue, though it could be revisited at a lower price. Newcastle appear set to miss out on Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, who is expected to join Aston Villa, making him the tenth player Newcastle have missed out on.

National Team News and Player Departures

The United States women's national team will host world No. 1 Spain for two friendly matches in October. In a somber report, police are investigating the death of South Africa World Cup player Jayden Adams, whose body was found in Cape Town. Spain defender Mapi Leon has joined the London City Lionesses on a three-year contract after her departure from Barcelona. Former defender Slaven Bilic has been reappointed as the manager of Croatia's men's national team. Uruguay's Football Association is in advanced talks with ex-striker Diego Forlán to become the interim head coach of the national team.

Concerns Over Player Welfare and Match Conditions

Discussions are underway between FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO regarding protocols to prevent matches from being played in excessive heat FIFA in talks. FIFA's mandated three-minute hydration breaks, a notable feature of the current World Cup, are being considered for continuation beyond the tournament. In a controversial statement, Alf-Inge Haaland, father of Erling, claimed Norway were "robbed" in their World Cup quarterfinal but expressed hope for an England victory. Spain defender Pau Cubarsí has called for tolerance following comments made by the nation's former Prime Minister regarding France's squad composition.

Other Football and Sports News

Ted Lasso actor Cristo Fernandez made his professional football debut for American second-tier side El Paso Locomotive, entering as a substitute in the 79th minute of a USL Cup match. England's cricket team is prioritizing more red-ball exposure ahead of the 2027 Ashes, following a heavy Test defeat to India at Lord's. Scotland's Premiership transfer window sees Aberdeen acquire Lewis Smith from Livingston. In golf, Rory McIlroy has been given a late start for the first two rounds of The 154th Open.