Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set: Spain Dominates France, England Faces Argentina

Spain booked their in the 2026 World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over favored France. Coach Luis de la Fuente declared Spain are "feeling unbeatable" heading into the championship match. Kylian Mbappé, however, seemed to following France's exit. Head coach Didier Deschamps conceded his French squad "wasn't good enough to beat Spain" on the day, citing a lack of technical soundness in their 2-0 defeat in the semifinals. Deschamps' tenure with France will conclude in the third-place playoff, a farewell game no one desires. Meanwhile, England is set to face Argentina in the other semifinal, with Harry Kane emphasizing that England "can't focus on Argentina history" despite the fixture's significance and rivalry. Argentina, drawing inspiration from Diego Maradona, aims to overcome England once again in the crucial match. Alexis Mac Allister believes his Premier League experience with Liverpool could be an advantage against England in the upcoming clash.

USMNT Reflects on World Cup Exit, Looks to 2030

USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese expressed his hurt over the public's criticism following the team's 4-1 elimination by Belgium in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after the loss. Despite the disappointment, there's a belief within the program that the U.S. might be making progress, even if luck hasn't been on their side in recent tournaments. The focus has already shifted to the 2030 World Cup, with projections underway for the potential roster that could represent the nation. Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency, Klutch Sports, following a breakout World Cup performance that.

Transfer Rumors and Club News Abound

In transfer news, Leeds United has for defender Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo. Chelsea has also agreed to a deal worth approximately £850,000 to sign Manchester United striker Melvine Malard. Barcelona remains interested in Arsenal target Julian Alvarez, with the Catalan club potentially increasing their offer after the World Cup. Amidst speculation about his future, Celtic captain Callum McGregor feels he can help "build something special" with new manager Martin O'Neill at the club. Aston Villa has been cautioned about "sportswashing" concerns regarding their new £20m-a-year sponsorship deal with Visit Rwanda for its human rights record.

Other Football Notes and World Cup Adjustments

New Chicago Fire signing Robert Lewandowski stated he "couldn't imagine playing for another European club" after his spell with Barcelona, explaining his move to MLS in part. Massimiliano Allegri, the new Napoli coach, expressed regret over the end of his tenure at AC Milan but is not seeking redemption. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reportedly been complaint to the IOC over alleged breaches of political neutrality rules in his dealings with Donald Trump. The half-time interval in the World Cup final will be extended. FIFA has also mandated three-minute hydration breaks throughout the tournament, which have. The match ball has also been changed for the World Cup semifinals after 100 games of the tournament.

Cricket Update: India Secures ODI Victory Over England

Shubman Gill's impressive 80 off 75 balls, before retiring injured, propelled India to a six-wicket victory over England in the opening one-day international at Edgbaston. In other cricket news, Stuart Broad believes England is in need of an additional fast bowler, suggesting now is the time to introduce new talent ahead of the next Cricket World Cup in over a year. The successor to Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach faces several key challenges in their new role upon appointment.