Spain reach World Cup semi as England face Norway test
Recap: Maradona called Messi’s 2014 World Cup Golden Ball ‘unfair’ and argued Colombia’s James Rodriguez, the Golden Boot winner, was the tournament’s standout.
Explainer on facial injuries at the World Cup and protective masks, featuring Djed Spence, Stefan Posch and Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, with medical insight on fractures, septal haematoma and recovery.
Sports Mole tip Norway 2-2 England after extra time with England to win on penalties, and Argentina to edge Switzerland 2-1 in the World Cup quarter-finals.
South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams, 25, has died. He featured in all three World Cup group games, starting vs Mexico and Czechia and coming on against South Korea, but missed the last-32 loss to Canada.
Carlo Pellegatti hails Adrien Rabiot’s ‘outstanding’ World Cup displays for France, praising his consistency and class, and urges AC Milan to keep him for the future.
Mexico’s Julián Quiñones has impressed at the World Cup, prompting Aston Villa to seek information on a transfer amid Chelsea interest, though Al-Qadsiah are reluctant to sell.
Photo feature showing candid pre-match rituals and preparations of 2026 World Cup stars.
Lisandro Martinez says World Cup officials are doing an excellent job after Egypt’s VAR complaints in Argentina’s 3-2 comeback. He warns Switzerland are strong on set-pieces before the quarter-final.
Haaland’s seven World Cup goals and playful online persona spark viral fandom ahead of Norway’s quarter-final with England, highlighting parasocial ties between players and supporters.
With World Cup absences ongoing, several Chelsea players also missing pre-season include Garnacho, Marc Guiu and Benoit Badiashile, amid transfer links and squad trimming.
US-hosted World Cup packs stadiums and smashes TV records, with primetime kick-offs, high-scoring games and viral fan scenes driving a surge in American engagement across languages and cities.
Report claims Jurgen Klopp will return to management after World Cup drama, with details pending.
PSG are in advanced talks with Barcelona to sign Spain World Cup forward Ferran Torres, aiming to move after Spain’s run ends. Torres is open to leaving despite strong 2023-24 numbers.
Newcastle plan a move for another World Cup star following Johan Manzambi, with potential outgoings like Bruno Guimaraes driving further arrivals.
Quarter-final in Miami pits England against Norway, with focus on Haaland’s seven goals and a duel with Kane. England monitor Rice and Guehi, Quansah suspended. Winner meets Argentina or Switzerland.
Merino strikes late after Lammens spills to give Spain a 2-1 win over Belgium. Ruiz and De Ketelaere traded goals, Simón’s World Cup clean-sheet run ends at about 650 minutes. Spain face France in the semifinal.
