Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 13, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals and Player Movements

The 2026 World Cup semifinals are set, featuring the top four FIFA-ranked teams lining up for a historic clash. Experts are weighing in with their best bets for the tournament's semifinal round. Players are preparing for the high-pressure scenarios of penalty shootouts, a format that has decided 39 knockout games since its 1982 debut. Meanwhile, the USWNT is gearing up to host world No. 1 Spain twice in October in friendly matches. In transfer news, Aston Villa is reportedly working on a deal for Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi, potentially hijacking Newcastle United's efforts. Veteran defender Lucas Digne has agreed to a deal to return to Paris Saint-Germain, with the club paying his £10 million ($13.3m) release clause. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. Arsenal is intensifying its pursuit of Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.

Club Focus and Player Futures

Club futures and player valuations are under scrutiny in Scotland. Martin O'Neill has expressed doubts regarding the futures of Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda, and Callum McGregor at Celtic, prompting discussion about the potential impact of their departures. Hearts' immediate focus should be on maintaining their position within the top three of the Scottish Premiership, according to former defender Ryan McGowan. Aberdeen has secured the signing of winger Lewis Smith from Livingston for an undisclosed fee. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has stated his desire to retain midfielder Enzo Fernandez at the club. The New England Revolution announced an extension of the loan for U.S. men's national team goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026.

European and Global Football Notes

LaLiga players and coaches are sharing their experiences of facing Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappé ahead of their World Cup semifinal clash. The debate around soccer's tie-breaking format continues, with questions raised about the effectiveness of extra time and penalty shootouts. Hydration breaks, a talking point throughout the 2026 World Cup, are being evaluated for their potential to continue beyond the tournament. The transfer market remains active during major tournaments, with players experiencing the unique challenges of club moves amidst international competition. A somber note in international football is the report of the death of Dutch referee Rob Dieperink at age, weeks after being removed from World Cup officiating duties due to a UK police investigation. Police are also investigating the death of South Africa's World Cup player Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered over the weekend in Cape Town.

Other Sporting Headlines

In golf, Tommy Fleetwood is aiming for a historic Open victory at Royal Birkdale, his hometown major. Groupings and tee times for the opening round of The 154th Open have been released, with Rory McIlroy in a notable group alongside Xander Schauffele and Matt Fitzpatrick. Joe Dean, a former delivery driver, has secured a late spot in The Open after winning a qualifier, with his fiancée serving as his caddie. On the cricket field, Jacob Bethell is set to open for England in their first one-day international against India. Head coach Charlotte Edwards is prioritizing more red-ball cricket for the England team ahead of the 2027 Ashes following a significant Test defeat to India. England's Test side faced a ruthless defeat by India, leading to discussions about a potential change in captaincy.