Jude Bellingham seemed to blame England teammate Jordan Pickford for the Enzo Fernandez goal for Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.

Chelsea midfielder Fernandez fired in a superb long-range strike for Argentina to make it 1-1, but it seems Bellingham feels the shot was actually quite central.

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Watch below as some fans seem to have been able to lip-read Bellingham’s reaction to the goal, with the Real Madrid ace complaining that it was in the middle of the goal…

Bellingham moaning about Pickford’s little arms. ‘It’s the middle of the goal’ ?? pic.twitter.com/eMqWz2FKg7

— Paul (@pclfc8) July 15, 2026

Make your own minds up, but that perhaps seems a bit harsh on England goalkeeper Pickford, who mostly had a really good game and another strong tournament overall.

Bellingham has been superb for England at this World Cup, but it’s moments like this that perhaps rub some fans up the wrong way, as he can be a little petulant when things aren’t going for him.

Who’s to blame for England’s World Cup exit?

England will likely need to do some soul-searching after this World Cup semi-final loss, as they were a goal up with just a few minutes left, but perhaps handed momentum back to Argentina by being overly defensive and cautious.

Perhaps Pickford could have done better too, but overall it seemed more like the wrong tactical approach from Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel.

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Still, this was a good tournament for England and there’ll perhaps be some optimism about what they can build for the future, even if it feels painful now to have missed out on a place in the final.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

England still haven’t won the World Cup since all the way back in 1966, and to many this felt like the best opportunity to finally do it again.

Argentina are a fantastic team, however, and are now looking to retain the trophy in what should be a mouth-watering encounter against Spain this Sunday.

The post Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal appeared first on CaughtOffside.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his decision to adopt such a negative approach in the World Cup semi-final defeat against Argentina.

Anthony Gordon scored to give England the lead, but they quickly went quite defensive as Tuchel made a few subs and altered his team’s shape even with quite a lot of time remaining.

As a result, Argentina eventually took control and came back to win 2-1 to book their place in this Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.

Tuchel has been widely criticised for his tactics, but when he spoke after the game he attempted to explain why he felt he had to try to close the game out this way.

Thomas Tuchel on England’s negative tactics

When asked about his decision, Tuchel insisted he had no regrets and that he did what he felt he had to do against Argentina as they kept finding too much space.

“I analysed the match and I did it a certain way so that’s my responsibility,” Tuchel said, as quoted by BBC Sport.

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“In the moment, no regrets. The team gave everything and we were very, very close. We deserved to be up 1-0.

“We played one of our better matches, maybe our best match in the circumstances. The team was top, we couldn’t get over the line but no regrets.

“I think we saw the mentality throughout the match and the strong group. We played the matches how they were, we played against strong teams in the group, travelled a lot of miles, played at altitude, we played with 10 men, we played in the heat and we overcame every obstacle.

“We were very close today. It’s not the moment to analyse the full tournament, we just went our because we lost a crucial match.”

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

Dan Burn responds to questions about England’s approach

England defender Dan Burn also spoke after the game about how Tuchel set the team up.

It seems the Newcastle man was sympathetic with the Three Lions boss, and admitted that it was also a response from the players to a certain extent, while for some time it also seemed like it was working.

“I thought we had the gameplan pretty well for the majority of it. But obviously, when we scored, we went a bit passive and dropped off and were ultimately punished for it,” Burn said.

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“We probably conceded too many chances and if you do that, they are going to get goals. Disappointing from us. We have defended games better and seen them out. When you get that close to the World Cup final, that hurts.”

He added: “It’s only human nature a little bit as well. You know how well we have defended leads in previous games. That tends to happen to majority of teams.”

Where do you stand on this? Should England have done better to control the game without just taking off attacking players and sitting back? Or was it the right idea and just a bit of bad luck against a quality side? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post “No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez came off the bench to give Argentina a 2-1 comeback victory over England, sending them into the World Cup Final against Spain.

There were no Serie A players in the starting line-ups, but one who was born in Italy, as Giuliano Simeone came into the world when his father Diego was playing for Lazio.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Como’s Nico Paz and Juventus-owned Nico Gonzalez were on the bench for the reigning champions. England made several changes, starting Inter-linked Djed Spence and Aston Villa wide man Morgan Rogers.

Marco Di Bello was the VAR, with Maurizio Mariani as the fourth official representing Italy.

It was, as expected, a scrappy affair with numerous fouls and arguments from the opening whistle. The first real chance saw John Stones nod wide from a free kick to the back post, while Enzo Fernandez saw his scorcher flash inches off target.

The first genuine save was at the dawn of the second half with Jordan Pickford parrying the Julian Alvarez effort low at the near post.

However, England opened the scoring when a low Morgan Rogers cross from the right found Anthony Gordon ready to tap in at the far stick.

ENGLAND HAVE THE OPENER!

Anthony Gordon puts the Three Lions ahead in the World Cup semi-final! pic.twitter.com/5fBlRcf1oI

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

Argentina immediately threatened an equaliser with Alvarez, only to be denied by a stunning tackle from Inter-linked full-back Djed Spence, formerly of Genoa, and Enzo Fernandez then blasted over.

Nico Gonzalez of Juventus came off the bench and immediately knocked a dangerous ball back to be cleared by Stones, then Pickford got down for a great save on his glancing header.

Argentina poured forward and were unlucky to see an Alexis Mac Allister free header smack against the upright on Rodrigo De Paul’s cross.

Lautaro Martinez was finally introduced for the final 10 minutes, and a long-range Enzo Fernandez screamer was fingertipped over the bar.

Argentina’s siege finally paid off with a scorcher from Enzo Fernandez on the resulting short corner and Lionel Messi assist, smashing in from well outside the area.

“Enzo Fernandez has simply been setting his sights!”

A rocket of a strike from the midfielder draws Argentina level. pic.twitter.com/f5kUPkaP0a

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

The momentum had shifted too much with England’s defensive attitude, and it cost them in added time, because after another Mac Allister effort came off the woodwork, Messi floated in the cross for Lautaro Martinez’s header. It was the Serie A Capocannoniere’s third goal of the 2026 World Cup.

Argentina are ahead!

A relentless spell of pressure sees Alexis Mac Allister hit the post before ANOTHER Lionel Messi assist sets up Lautaro Martinez to make it 2-1. pic.twitter.com/kVoNouFgKZ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

England 1-2 Argentina

Gordon 55 (E), Enzo Fernandez 86 (A), Lautaro Martinez 92 (A)

15-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England

Argentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Elliot Anderson		37'
		42'		Lautaro Martínez

2nd half

		51'		Cristian Romero
Anthony Gordon (Assist: Morgan Rogers)		55'
		86'		Enzo Fernández (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+2'		Lautaro Martínez (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+4'		Rodrigo de Paul

Match statistic

36

Possession %

64

5

Total shots

15

2

Shots on target

5

1

Shots off target

7

2

Blocked shots

3

1

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

11

Fouls

15

England

Argentina

Starting lineups

1

Jordan Pickford

Goalkeeper

25

Djed Spence

Defender

90'

5

John Stones

Defender

90'

6

Marc Guehi

Defender

24

Reece James

Defender

82'

4

Declan Rice

Midfielder

82'

8

Elliot Anderson

Midfielder

10

Jude Bellingham

Midfielder

18

Anthony Gordon

Attacker

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

17

Morgan Rogers

Attacker

23

Emiliano Martínez

Goalkeeper

13

Cristian Romero

Defender

6

Lisandro Martínez

Defender

72'

26

Nahuel Molina

Defender

72'

3

Nicolás Tagliafico

Defender

81'

20

Alexis Mac Allister

Midfielder

24

Enzo Fernández

Midfielder

5

Leandro Paredes

Midfielder

64'

17

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

72'

9

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

10

Lionel Messi

Attacker

Substitutes

14

Jordan Henderson

Midfielder

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

13

Dean Henderson

Goalkeeper

23

James Trafford

Goalkeeper

19

Ollie Watkins

Attacker

12

Trevoh Chalobah

Defender

16

Kobbie Mainoo

Midfielder

21

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

2

Ezri Konsa

Defender

72'

15

Dan Burn

Defender

82'

3

Nico O’Reilly

Defender

82'

11

Marcus Rashford

Attacker

90'

22

Ivan Toney

Attacker

90'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

11

Giovani Lo Celso

Midfielder

14

Exequiel Palacios

Midfielder

12

Gerónimo Rulli

Goalkeeper

2

Marcos Senesi

Defender

16

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

25

Facundo Medina

Defender

18

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Valentín Barco

Defender

21

José Manuel López

Attacker

15

Nico González

Attacker

64'

19

Nicolás Otamendi

Defender

72'

7

Rodrigo de Paul

Midfielder

72'

4

Gonzalo Montiel

Defender

72'

22

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

81'

The knives are really out for England manager Thomas Tuchel this evening as a host of journalists have taken to social media to slam his tactics against Argentina.

Tuchel has long been regarded as one of the top coaches in the game, but he went defensive far too early in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat on Wednesday night.

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Anthony Gordon had given the Three Lions a 1-0 lead, but Tuchel made a number of subs that saw them concede massive amounts of ground to Argentina, who eventually found their way to a 2-1 comeback.

While teams sometimes have to be a bit more cautious towards the end of close games, Tuchel just overdid it a bit tonight and also started that negative approach quite early.

Take a look at the screen grab below

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Thomas Tuchel’s defensive substitutes for England against Argentina

See below for the subs Tuchel made for England, and what minute they came in, and it certainly paints a picture…

This will be an important lesson for England and for Tuchel, who surely had enough quality in the team to continue to take the game to Argentina.

No one is arguing that England should have continued to go all-out-attack, but it’s rare that a team can just defend their way to a win.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

All this did was hand the momentum to Argentina, and when you allow the likes of Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez more and more opportunities to get into dangerous positions, you’re always going to get punished eventually.

The post “Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Argentina have beaten England and made it to the World Cup final, with Lionel Messi and co. now preparing to take on Spain.

Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in Wednesday night’s semi-final, but Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scored twice late on to send the Three Lions out of the World Cup.

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For England, the 60 years of hurt goes on, and they’ll have to look back at what ended up being a pretty negative performance against Argentina.

Thomas Tuchel went far too defensive after England went ahead, so it’s not exactly the players’ fault, but here’s our look at how the players from both sides rated…

Argentina 2-1 England World Cup semi-final player ratings

Jordan Pickford – 6

Reece James – 7

Djed Spence – 7

Marc Guehi – 6

John Stones – 6

Declan Rice – 7.5

Elliot Anderson – 6

Jude Bellingham – 6.5

Morgan Rogers – 7

Anthony Gordon – 7.5

Harry Kane – 6

Not too many stand-out performers there from England, but Rogers and Gordon combined well for the goal, while Rice also played his part and generally worked hard in a difficult midfield battle. James and Spence were also in good form at both ends of the pitch, with the latter particularly impressive with one last-ditch challenge in the second half.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

Emiliano Martinez – 6

Nahuel Molina – 6

Nicolas Tagliafico – 6

Cristian Romero – 8

Lisandro Martinez – 7

Leandro Paredes – 7

Alexis Mac Allister – 6.5

Enzo Fernandez – 8

Giulio Simeone – 6

Julian Alvarez – 7

Lionel Messi – 9

Argentina were not exactly spectacular, but Messi and Fernandez produced when it mattered and that will give them confidence against Spain in the final. A word too to Romero, who hasn’t always been at his best in a Tottenham shirt, but who looked like a real leader at the back tonight in an important game, keeping Kane quiet throughout.

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Who do you think will win this weekend’s final now? Give us your predictions in the comments!

The post Argentina 2-1 England player ratings: Messi gets 9/10 with 2 assists while Chelsea & Spurs stars shine appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Enzo Fernandez scored a stunning goal to level things up for Argentina against England in tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash.

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The Chelsea midfielder scored an absolutely sublime long-range effort after a short corner by Argentina, with Lionel Messi setting him up to hit it from outside the box.

Watch below as Fernandez finally beat Jordan Pickford, who had been superb for England to keep out Alexis Mac Allister on numerous occasions…

"Enzo Fernandez has simply been setting his sights!" ?

A rocket of a strike from the midfielder draws Argentina level. pic.twitter.com/f5kUPkaP0a

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

We all know Fernandez has that in his locker, with the 25-year-old often scoring some real beauties for Chelsea.

Now he’s delivered on the big stage for his country as they look to be heading for a second consecutive World Cup final appearance.

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Argentina produce stunning comeback against England

Lautaro Martinez has just scored a second for the South American giants, who now lead 2-1 with just a few minutes of stoppage time remaining.

Watch below as Messi was again the creator with a lovely cross to set up Martinez for the header…

Argentina are ahead! ?

A relentless spell of pressure sees Alexis Mac Allister hit the post before ANOTHER Lionel Messi assist sets up Lautaro Martinez to make it 2-1. pic.twitter.com/kVoNouFgKZ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

Having won the World Cup in 2022, it looks like Argentina are heading back to the final as they look to retain their trophy, with Spain waiting for them this time.

For England, unless something dramatic happens in the next few moments, it’s more heartache at a World Cup, with 60 years of hurt set to continue for even longer.

The post Video: Enzo Fernandez & Lautaro Martinez score quickfire double to break England hearts appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Italian referee Marco Di Bello is the VAR for this evening’s World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, with Maurizio Mariani the fourth official.

The game kicked off in Atlanta at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners will go on to face Spain in the Final in New Jersey on Sunday, while the losers will take on France for the bronze medal on Saturday.

Much was made of the choice of officials for the semi-finals in this tournament, with France’s Didier Deschamps criticising the appointment of Ivan Barton from El Salvador.

The pick for the second semi-final was no less obscure, Ismail Elfath originally from Morocco, but nationalised US citizen.

Italian experience with Di Bello and Mariani

There is more experience off the field, as Italian fourth official Mariani is tasked with keeping things calm on the touchline between Thomas Tuchel and Lionel Scaloni.

In the VAR booth is Di Bello, who could well be called into action, considering the tense and scrappy history between these football nations.

Di Bello turned 45 on Sunday and has officiated 189 Serie A games, 75 in Serie B and 11 in the Coppa Italia.

He was always one for discipline, flashing 822 yellow cards during his 189 Serie A matches, 31 straight red cards, and a further 17 dismissals due to double bookings.

Di Bello became an international referee in 2018 and was chosen to officiate the Final of the Cyprus Cup in May 2022.

He was a VAR at EURO 2020 and has been a FIFA Video Match Official since January 2021.

Di Bello was suspended for a month in 2024 after a chaotic Serie A match between Lazio and Milan that saw three red cards.

England have taken the lead against Argentina in the World Cup semi-final thanks to a goal from Anthony Gordon!

The former Newcastle United winger, who recently sealed a transfer to Barcelona, has his first goal of this summer’s World Cup, and he’s picked a hell of a moment to get it.

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Watch below as Gordon tapped in from close range after great play down England’s right-hand side from Declan Rice and Morgan Rogers…

ENGLAND HAVE THE OPENER! ?

Anthony Gordon puts the Three Lions ahead in the World Cup semi-final! pic.twitter.com/5fBlRcf1oI

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

Gordon has often been quite prolific from out wide, so it’s no surprise to see him making that run from the left into the penalty area and finding the back of the net.

Still, he can’t have scored many bigger goals than this one, with England now closing in on a place in their first World Cup final in 60 years!

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Thomas Tuchel’s gamble on Morgan Rogers pays off

It was superb play by Morgan Rogers on the right flank, not normally his best position, to set Gordon up for the simple finish.

Rogers has often played out on the left or in a central attacking midfield role for Aston Villa and England, but he has had to adjust to a new position tonight.

Still, Thomas Tuchel’s gamble looks to have paid off, with Rogers performing well so far and doing brilliantly with his cross to pick out Gordon.

The right-hand side has been an issue for England so far at this tournament, with Bukayo Saka’s fitness issues meaning that Noni Madueke has played a lot of games.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

While Madueke has his qualities, he hasn’t had enough of an impact so far, which led to Tuchel trying Rogers on the right this evening, and it looks like a tactical masterstroke.

Can England hold on or even add a second? Give us your thoughts in the comments!

The post Video: Anthony Gordon puts England 1-0 up against Argentina in World Cup semi-final appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The referee in tonight’s World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina has come in for strong criticism for a lack of yellow cards.

More specifically, a number of high-profile media figures cheering on England are not happy at what they perceive as favourable treatment towards Argentina in this game.

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They may have a point, but these discussions often feel a little tedious in what has generally just been quite a close game without much else to talk about so far.

See below as former footballer Stan Collymore claims Argentina could easily have had two players sent off as both Enzo Fernandez and Giuliano Simeone have made the equivalent of three yellow card offences…

Simeone. 3 yellow challenges.
Fernandez. 3 yellow challenges.

— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) July 15, 2026

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Meanwhile, Piers Morgan has also slammed the referee for missing about five yellow cards for Argentina so far…

What the f*ck is this referee doing? Argentina should have 5 bookings by now. Dirty team going woefully unpunished.

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) July 15, 2026

Argentina have certainly been quite aggressive, and that’s always frustrating when you’re on the receiving end of it.

Still, it seems a tad over-the-top to be suggesting there’s any serious favouritism going on.

England looking to make first World Cup final since 1966

England have done well at this World Cup, and they’re taking the fight to current holders Argentina so far.

They can do better, though, and will likely have to in the second half if they are to have a serious chance of making it to the World Cup final for the first time since they won the competition all the way back in 1966.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

Argentina, meanwhile, are looking to retain the trophy they won back in Qatar in 2022, and they’ll hope for more Lionel Messi magic tonight to continue the remarkable form he’s showed at this year’s tournament so far.

The post “Dirty team” – Outrage as ref accused of missing 5-6 Argentina yellow cards vs England appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has praised the “incredible” Morgan Rogers as they play together for England in tonight’s World Cup semi-final vs Argentina.

Rogers starts on the right-hand side for England, with Thomas Tuchel trying something a bit different in this big game after mostly using Noni Madueke in that position throughout this World Cup.

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With Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka not fully fit, another Gunners star Madueke has come in for the Three Lions, but he’s not been that convincing.

Rogers, meanwhile, has been linked with Arsenal very strongly this summer, and it seems Rice is clearly a big fan of the Aston Villa man as they prepare to link up this evening…

Declan Rice looking forward to playing with Morgan Rogers

Declan Rice is back to full fitness ?

And he's excited to see Morgan Rogers start ? pic.twitter.com/J5XzvBX2NT

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) July 15, 2026

On Rogers starting, Rice said: “Yeah I think the manager’s obviously made a decision there. Morgan’s an incredible player, obviously he’s going to be playing off the right.

“He’s direct, he’s fast, he’s strong, can come inside, so whoever starts, whoever comes off the bench as seen throughout this tournament has made a massive impact, so I don’t think it’s going to affect much, but it’s a player we’re all looking forward to playing with today.”

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Morgan Rogers on Arsenal’s agenda

Rogers has shown outstanding quality with Villa and England, and it seems inevitable that he’ll soon get himself a big move.

As has been widely reported, our understanding is that Arsenal are making Rogers a priority this summer, and the 23-year-old is also keen on the move to the Emirates Stadium.

More Stories / Latest News

Watch: Jude Bellingham appears to blame England teammate for Argentina goal

Jul 15 2026, 23:37

“No regrets” – Thomas Tuchel explains why he went so defensive in England defeat vs Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 23:19

“Pathetic” Thomas Tuchel tactics blamed as England approach “backfired terribly” in defeat to Argentina

Jul 15 2026, 22:57

The Gunners would do well to bring Rogers in, though he doesn’t normally play on the right, so would likely be signed with the view of replacing the departing Leandro Trossard on the left-hand side, or to provide an alternative to the likes of Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze in the centre.

Either way, Arsenal fans will no doubt be excited that Rice is such a big fan of Rogers, and perhaps take it as a hint that there’s strong interest from everyone at the club in signing him this summer.

The post Video: Declan Rice praises “incredible” Arsenal transfer target ahead of link-up appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez and Como’s Nico Paz are on the bench for Lionel Messi’s Argentina against England in the World Cup semi-final.

It kicks off in Atlanta at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners go on to face Spain in the Final on Sunday evening, while the losers fight with France for the bronze medal on Saturday.

There is some Italian representation here, as Maurizio Mariani is the fourth official on the touchline dealing with Thomas Tuchel and Lionel Scaloni.

Argentina have scraped their way through to this stage in defending their title won in 2022, needing extra time against Cape Verde, a last-gasp turnaround from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 amid controversy, and again extra time to defeat 10-man Switzerland.

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez scored twice in this World Cup, but he is benched once more in favour of Julian Alvarez.

There was expected to be a Serie A player in the starting XI, as for the first time Juventus man Nico Gonzalez was going to get the nod rather than ex-Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul on the right.

Instead, it is Giuliano Simeone, younger brother of Torino forward Giovanni Simeone, who plays.

Curiously, Giuliano was born in Rome because his father Diego was playing for Lazio at the time.

Nico Gonzalez spent this season on loan with Atletico Madrid, but they did not agree to buy him outright yet, scoring five goals in 37 games.

Nahuel Molina, another former Udinese player, starts at right-back, while ex-Roma midfielder Leandro Paredes has shaken off a knock.

England were given their toughest test yet in the quarter-final, squeezing past Erling Haaland’s Norway in extra time thanks to a Jude Bellingham brace.

All but one of their goals in the competition have been scored by either Bellingham or Harry Kane.

Jordan Henderson is out after breaking his arm jumping over an advertising board, while Jarrell Quansah continues his two-match ban.

Declan Rice has recovered from a stomach bug, but the surprise is Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa given his second start of the World Cup on the right.

There is some reshuffling in defence, with Reece James and Inter-linked Djed Spence as full-backs.

England vs. Argentina line-ups

England: Pickford; James, Stones, Guehi, Spence; Rice, Anderson; Rogers, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane

Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Simeone, Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, Julian Alvarez

15-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

England

Argentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Elliot Anderson		37'
		42'		Lautaro Martínez

2nd half

		51'		Cristian Romero
Anthony Gordon (Assist: Morgan Rogers)		55'
		86'		Enzo Fernández (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+2'		Lautaro Martínez (Assist: Lionel Messi)
		90+4'		Rodrigo de Paul

Match statistic

36

Possession %

64

5

Total shots

15

2

Shots on target

5

1

Shots off target

7

2

Blocked shots

3

1

Corners

6

1

Offsides

3

11

Fouls

15

England

Argentina

Starting lineups

1

Jordan Pickford

Goalkeeper

25

Djed Spence

Defender

90'

5

John Stones

Defender

90'

6

Marc Guehi

Defender

24

Reece James

Defender

82'

4

Declan Rice

Midfielder

82'

8

Elliot Anderson

Midfielder

10

Jude Bellingham

Midfielder

18

Anthony Gordon

Attacker

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

17

Morgan Rogers

Attacker

23

Emiliano Martínez

Goalkeeper

13

Cristian Romero

Defender

6

Lisandro Martínez

Defender

72'

26

Nahuel Molina

Defender

72'

3

Nicolás Tagliafico

Defender

81'

20

Alexis Mac Allister

Midfielder

24

Enzo Fernández

Midfielder

5

Leandro Paredes

Midfielder

64'

17

Giuliano Simeone

Attacker

72'

9

Julián Álvarez

Attacker

10

Lionel Messi

Attacker

Substitutes

14

Jordan Henderson

Midfielder

20

Noni Madueke

Attacker

7

Bukayo Saka

Attacker

13

Dean Henderson

Goalkeeper

23

James Trafford

Goalkeeper

19

Ollie Watkins

Attacker

12

Trevoh Chalobah

Defender

16

Kobbie Mainoo

Midfielder

21

Eberechi Eze

Attacker

2

Ezri Konsa

Defender

72'

15

Dan Burn

Defender

82'

3

Nico O’Reilly

Defender

82'

11

Marcus Rashford

Attacker

90'

22

Ivan Toney

Attacker

90'

1

Juan Musso

Goalkeeper

11

Giovani Lo Celso

Midfielder

14

Exequiel Palacios

Midfielder

12

Gerónimo Rulli

Goalkeeper

2

Marcos Senesi

Defender

16

Thiago Almada

Midfielder

25

Facundo Medina

Defender

18

Nico Paz

Midfielder

8

Valentín Barco

Defender

21

José Manuel López

Attacker

15

Nico González

Attacker

64'

19

Nicolás Otamendi

Defender

72'

7

Rodrigo de Paul

Midfielder

72'

4

Gonzalo Montiel

Defender

72'

22

Lautaro Martínez

Attacker

81'

England manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly set to start Morgan Rogers on the right against Argentina in tonight’s World Cup semi-final.

The Aston Villa attacking midfielder usually plays on the left or centrally, so this is a slightly unfamiliar role for him, but he’s also someone who’s surely good enough to contribute in almost any attacking role.

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See below for David Ornstein’s update on England’s team selection for this evening’s big game, with the journalist posting on X that Tuchel is set to reward Rogers for his impact off the bench in the win over Norway in the last round…

? Morgan Rogers set to start on right for England in #FIFAWorldCup semi-final v #Argentina. Opportunity would see 23yo Aston Villa forward rewarded after impact off bench against Norway & form for #AVFC + #England across Thomas Tuchel reign @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/f3tAfwuZXu

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 15, 2026

“Morgan Rogers set to start on right for England in #FIFAWorldCup semi-final … Opportunity would see 23yo Aston Villa forward rewarded after impact off bench against Norway & form for #AVFC + across Thomas Tuchel reign,” Ornstein said.

In truth, something needed to change on that right-hand side as Noni Madueke hasn’t been particularly convincing at this tournament, though he’s started a lot of games because Bukayo Saka isn’t 100% fit.

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Video: Declan Rice praises “incredible” Arsenal transfer target ahead of link-up

Jul 15 2026, 20:12

Can England get past Argentina?

Tuchel will need to get his team selection right tonight for this huge game, which some people are calling their biggest since the World Cup final victory in 1966.

England haven’t been in a World Cup final since their only victory 60 years ago, so it would be a huge achievement to do it.

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Argentina are the current holders, so will probably be the favourites tonight, especially with Lionel Messi in such exceptional form at this year’s tournament so far.

For England, the key men will surely be Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have both been superb for the Three Lions, though a top young talent like Rogers could also cause Argentina some problems.

The post Ornstein reveals England star “rewarded” with start in unfamiliar role vs Argentina tonight appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Roma are actively working to sell Manu Koné for at least €60m, with reports in Italy claiming Manchester United are ahead of Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal for the France midfielder.

His asking price had already been a minimum of €50m before the World Cup, but has since surged thanks to his impressive performances, as confirmed by how badly he was missed in the semi-final against Spain when making way for Aurelien Tchaouameni.

Koné targeted by Premier League

There are some suggestions in England, most notably from Rio Ferdinand on his YouTube channel, that Manchester United have already agreed a deal worth €53m.

That is not the version given by the Corriere dello Sport, who insist that while Manchester United have been the most consistently interested and taken more steps, they are by no means the only club.

Others from the Premier League to have contacted Roma to ask for information are Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea, along with Atletico Madrid in LaLiga.

Above all, the price is not going to drop below €60m (approximately £51m) after those performances in the 2026 World Cup.

The 25-year-old is going to provide a hefty profit regardless, as he was purchased from Borussia Monchengladbach in the summer of 2024 for just €18m plus €2m in add-ons.

His World Cup is not over yet, as Koné and France will play in Saturday’s third-place final, but after that he can begin to work in earnest on the next step of his career.

England legend Wayne Rooney has backed Harry Kane to “destroy” Argentina’s centre-backs if he’s really on his game in tonight’s World Cup semi-final.

Spain beat France last night to book their place in the final, and now fans will be preparing to follow England vs Argentina in the second semi-final, with the Three Lions chasing a first appearance in a World Cup final since their famous victory of 1966.

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Speaking ahead of the big game, former England forward Rooney is backing Kane as the big difference-maker, as he could be too much for Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero if he plays at his best.

Wayne Rooney makes big Harry Kane claim

Watch below as Rooney explains how Kane could cause that duo a lot of trouble with his intelligent movement…

"If Harry Kane is on it, he'll destroy these two centre-backs" ??????? ?? pic.twitter.com/9vqdSouHMJ

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 15, 2026

“If Harry Kane is on it, they won’t be able to deal with Harry Kane,” Rooney said. “Because Harry’s a nightmare for that type of defender.”

He added: “If Harry’s just dragging them into positions where they feel a bit exposed, which they will do … it’s just about the timing of the pass and the timing of the run in behind them.

“I think if Harry is on it he will absolutely destroy those two centre-backs.”

Is this going to turn into Lionel Messi vs Harry Kane?

Football is complex and unpredictable, so to say any game is a battle between any two individuals is far too simplistic.

However, we also know that there are certain talents who are a level above the rest, and that entire game plans can revolve around.

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Kane and Lionel Messi fall into that category, as, arguably, does Jude Bellingham after the form he’s shown at this World Cup so far.

If Rooney is right and Kane can unsettle that Argentina defence, then that could be the game plan that brings England victory.

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Jul 15 2026, 18:09

However, as Thomas Tuchel has alluded to, there also needs to be a plan for Messi, who has been in superb form at this tournament even at the age of 39.

Who do you see having the bigger influence tonight? Give us your thoughts and pre-match predictions in the comments!

The post Wayne Rooney singles out England star who can “destroy” key Argentina players tonight appeared first on CaughtOffside.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has dodged a question about whether he thinks Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time.

The German tactician is preparing to lead the Three Lions against Argentina in tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash, and stopping Messi will probably be the tactic he most needs to get right.

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Messi has never played against England before, so it will be interesting to see what he can do, but he goes into this game in superb form as he’s joint-top of the Golden Boot charts at the World Cup so far.

See below as Tuchel discusses Messi’s quality, but falls short of declaring him the best player ever, as he admits he’s not a fan of lists like that…

‘We’re NOT here to build him a throne’ ?

Thomas Tuchel on the challenge Lionel Messi and Argentina pose for England ?????????#ITVFootball | @England | @gabrielclarke05 pic.twitter.com/L5c9xfnERb

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 15, 2026

Tuchel also sent a clear message about not worshipping Messi too much, which seems like the right kind of mentality for England if they are to avoid being overawed by the 39-year-old.

How can England stop Lionel Messi?

Tuchel also spoke in another video clip about how he’s tempted to try an old-school man-marking system to keep Messi quiet.

See below as the England manager admitted to that kind of plan crossing his mind, though he obviously wouldn’t reveal one way or another if he’d definitely choose that particular option, as it might not be something that works on Messi anyway…

How Thomas Tuchel and England are planning on stopping Lionel Messi… ?? pic.twitter.com/iaF3mSpYUe

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 15, 2026

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Ultimately, it might just be best not to focus too much on Messi, as throughout his career he’s got the better of pretty much every top defence you can think of.

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Jul 15 2026, 18:09

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Jul 15 2026, 17:22

It might work best for England if they just focus on their own game tonight, and do their best to keep the ball, create chances, and limit what Messi can do by simply being the better team.

That’s easier said than done, of course, but if they retreat and make everything about stopping Messi, chances are he’ll find at least one moment of immense quality to undo all that work anyway.

The post “I’m not a fan of…” – Thomas Tuchel gives interesting response to Lionel Messi question appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Antonio Conte refuses to comment on speculation regarding his possible appointment as Italy coach, but praises two of his ex-strikers, Harry Kane and Lautaro Martinez, who will meet in the World Cup semifinal tonight.

Conte left Napoli in May after spending two seasons at the Stadio Maradona.

One of the most successful Italian coaches of the last decade, Conte has long been linked with the Italy job this summer, but, following Paolo Maldini’s appointment as technical director, Conte no longer seems one of the top options for the Azzurri.

Conte gave an interview to Gazzetta dello Sport while on holiday with his family. The pink paper said that Conte agreed to talk to their reporter as long as the conversation did not concern his future.

“Now, I’m happy like this,” he said.

Conte did talk about the World Cup, also focusing on two of his ex-strikers, Kane and Lautaro Martinez.

Conte: Kane is almost a No.10

The Bayern Munich and Inter stars will meet tonight in the World Cup semifinal. The winner will face Spain in the Final next Sunday.

“Harry [Kane] is a great No.9, but he’s almost a No.10 too,” Conte said.

“He understands the movements; he knows when to drop deep and play as a playmaker. He’s a fantastic player, with great quality and technique. It was unfair that he had never won anything, and at Bayern Munich, he’s getting the satisfaction he deserves. Who knows, maybe he can do the same with the national team. Kane is a leader in his own way. Perhaps not with words, but inside the game. His teammates look for him because they trust him, and he never lets them down.”

Conte coached Kane at Tottenham and had previously won the Serie A title at Inter, coaching Lautaro Martinez.

Conte said he was impressed with the Argentine’s “continuous growth, as well as charisma and personality.”

“There’s an Inter with Lautaro and an Inter without Lautaro. His presence shifts the balance,” continued the Italian tactician.

“Lautaro’s contribution to Argentina’s third goal against Egypt went somewhat unnoticed, but it was incredible. He carried the ball up the pitch, protected it, gave Enzo Fernandez enough time to arrive and delivered a perfect cross. You don’t expect that kind of play from a No.9.

“Lautaro, like Julian Alvarez, understood that he could still be important even if only for a few minutes. They accepted the situation by putting their egos aside and prioritising the team’s needs. Credit to both of them, and to Scaloni for convincing them.

Inevitably, however, the brightest Argentine star is once again Leo Messi.

“He’s gone beyond expectations, once more,” noted Conte.

“He has arrived in incredible shape, which once again proves his incredible professionalism and desire. Leo has the brainpower to always be in the right place because he predicts what will happen.”

At the end of the interview, the journalist still tried to know more about Conte’s potential return as Italy coach.

“Too many things have been said. It’s time for action, not for talk and politics,” the ex-Napoli, Juventus and Inter boss replied.

“We cannot miss three World Cups in a row. A feat has been accomplished, but in reverse.”

Spain have now gone 37 consecutive games unbeaten, equalling Italy’s record under Roberto Mancini, and will overtake the Azzurri if they win the World Cup.

Spain beat France 2-0 on Tuesday to become the first finalist of the 2026 World Cup.

Italy and Spain share an unbeaten record

La Roja will meet the winner of Argentina vs England in the Final next Sunday.

As Gazzetta highlights, Spain have now been unbeaten in the last 37 matches across all competitions, matching the record set by Mancini’s Italy between 2018 and 2021.

This means that Spain will beat Italy’s record if they win the World Cup.

Luis De La Fuente has selected no Serie A players in his Spain team for the 2026 World Cup.

They have scored 13 goals at the 2026 World Cup so far, conceding just once, from Atalanta star Charles De Ketelaere in a quarter-final clash against Belgium.

Spain have already broken one of Italy’s World Cup records this summer, with goalkeeper Unai Simón going unbeaten for more than 519 minutes and surpassing Walter Zenga’s mark, which had stood for 36 years.

Gazzetta dello Sport

One Azzurro leads to another

Maldini and Malagò want Buffon in Club Italia. Pirlo is increasingly favourite to become the new coach

Goodbye France

Spain into the final after 16 years

Blues irrecognizable: Mbappé’s flop. Oyarzabal’s penalty and Porro’s goal decide the game. England-Argentina tonight.

Modric, here we are: one-year renewal ready

Inter all over Spence: Tottenham ask for 35m

Conte: ‘Kane-Lautaro, I’ll explain to you, my hitmen.’

Corriere dello Sport

Nothing goes anymore: France darkness, Deschamps era over, Spain into the Final

Mbappé and Dembélé out: Messi, the obstacle is Kane

Allegri: ‘I’ll compensate you.’

From the Scudetto taken from Sarri in 2018 to the new objectives: ‘I’m here to give something back. The club thinks about the transfers. A company man? That’s a compliment. I won’t reply to Cardinale. I’m sorry for how it went.’

Inter between Doué and Spence

Milan call Mazraoui

Muha makes Juve rich

Rocchi’s case is to be dismissed

Tuttosport

Spanish coup: Surprise at the World Cup, no Final for the France of phenomenons

Spalletti dreams of Balogun

Muharemovic unlocks the Juventus market: not just Kolo and Pellegrino for the attack.

The Bosnian’s sale to Leeds is about to boost the Bianconeri’s finances with €20m following the agreement with Sassuolo. Monaco ask for at least €50m for the American; the coach hopes for a coup. Emery blocks Dibu to Villa: turn to Vicario. Kessié flirts.

Absurd: Toro fans banned from friendlies

Giuntoli against Marotta: ‘Palestra, we behaved well.’

Liverpool-linked winger Michael Olise has received criticism for a particularly poor game for France against Spain in Tuesday night’s World Cup semi-final.

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The Bayern Munich star was not his usual self at all, and it proved hugely detrimental to France as they lost 2-0 to Spain and exited the competition.

Given the presence of world class attacking players like Olise, Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Desire Doue, Bradley Barcola, and Rayan Cherki, this France side were seen as one of the big favourites for this year’s World Cup.

However, Olise really let them down tonight, with Get French Football News giving him just a 2/10 rating and slamming him for making some sloppy mistakes in possession.

What next for Michael Olise this summer?

It will be interesting to see what happens next with Olise after so much speculation over his future in recent months.

Of course, France still have the third place play-off this weekend to think about, but their tournament is still essentially over, which might mean players switch their focus to potential transfers.

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Olise could be one to watch as TEAMtalk have linked him with Liverpool, while our colleague Christian Falk has written in his CF Bayern Insider column about the 24-year-old being unlikely to sign a new Bayern contract.

This could perhaps open the door for Liverpool, but it’s unlikely to be a deal that would come cheap.

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Bayern are a huge club, so won’t want to sell a world class talent like Olise, even if he just had a pretty poor game for France.

An in-form Olise is one of the deadliest attacking players on the planet, and his playing style also makes him an ideal long-term Mohamed Salah replacement at Anfield.

The post 2/10 – Liverpool transfer target slammed for nervy and error-prone performance for France vs Spain appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Spain have knocked favourites France out of the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 victory, as Milan’s Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot and Roma midfielder Manu Koné miss out on the Final.

The Spaniards go on to face either England or Argentina in the Final on July 19 in New Jersey, while France will fight for the bronze medal on July 18.

Les Bleus had won every game so far in the tournament, but made two changes from the side that beat Morocco in the quarter-final, as Bradley Barcola was preferred to Désiré Doué, but above all Roma’s Manu Koné dropped to the bench as Aurelien Tchaoumeni recovered from a muscular injury.

Spain conceded only one goal in six World Cup games, during the 2-1 victory over Belgium, and again picked ex-Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz rather than Pedri.

Spain were awarded a penalty when Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal, the defender who just agreed a move to PSG making a hash of a clearance. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up to convert past Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

Mikel Oyarzabal scores from the spot and Spain lead France! pic.twitter.com/pJManVOZf3

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

The situation went from bad to worse for France, as moments later William Saliba went off with a back injury, then Fabian Ruiz prodded wide after a well-worked move set up by Yamal.

Unai Simon’s first real test was sprinting off his line to clear from Kylian Mbappé at the 42^nd minute, then Mbappé just failed to get on the end of a fizzing Jules Koundé cross.

Milan midfielder Adrien Rabiot was already on a yellow card and risked a second, so was replaced by Roma’s Koné for the restart.

INCREDIBLE

Spain one-two their way through the France defense and Pedro Porro doubles his country’s lead… pic.twitter.com/DFGCLMzFUC

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

However, Spain passed their way through the French side to score the second with Pedro Porro blasting in at the near post after a give and go with Dani Olmo.

Lamine Yamal had the ball in the net again moments later, but was flagged offside, while Mbappé saw his strike deflected inches wide by Marc Cucurella.

The best chance France had was when Unai Simon came rushing out to clear, but got back in time to stop Désiré Doué firing into the empty net.

France 0-2 Spain

Oyarzabal pen 23 (S), Porro 58 (S)

14-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

AT&T Stadium

France

Spain

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Adrien Rabiot		9'
		22'		Mikel Oyarzabal
		31'		Marc Cucurella

2nd half

		58'		Pedro Porro (Assist: Dani Olmo)
Kylian Mbappé		86'

Match statistic

49

Possession %

51

10

Total shots

10

3

Shots on target

2

5

Shots off target

5

2

Blocked shots

3

7

Corners

1

4

Offsides

5

11

Fouls

12

France

Spain

Starting lineups

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

4

Dayot Upamecano

Defender

5

Jules Koundé

Defender

3

Lucas Digne

Defender

72'

17

William Saliba

Defender

30'

14

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

46'

8

Aurélien Tchouaméni

Midfielder

11

Michael Olise

Midfielder

72'

12

Bradley Barcola

Attacker

57'

10

Kylian Mbappé

Attacker

7

Ousmane Dembélé

Attacker

23

Unai Simón

Goalkeeper

14

Aymeric Laporte

Defender

24

Marc Cucurella

Defender

22

Pau Cubarsí

Defender

12

Pedro Porro

Defender

84'

15

Álex Baena

Midfielder

84'

8

Fabián Ruiz

Midfielder

78'

16

Rodri

Midfielder

10

Dani Olmo

Attacker

78'

19

Lamine Yamal

Attacker

21

Mikel Oyarzabal

Attacker

74'

Substitutes

19

Theo Hernández

Defender

13

N’Golo Kanté

Midfielder

15

Ibrahima Konaté

Defender

21

Lucas Hernández

Defender

2

Malo Gusto

Defender

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

18

Warren Zaïre-Emery

Midfielder

1

Brice Samba

Goalkeeper

22

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Attacker

23

Robin Risser

Goalkeeper

26

Maxence Lacroix

Defender

30'

6

Manu Koné

Midfielder

46'

20

Désiré Doué

Midfielder

57'

24

Rayan Cherki

Attacker

72'

25

Maghnes Akliouche

Midfielder

72'

4

Eric García

Defender

3

Alejandro Grimaldo

Defender

26

Borja Iglesias

Attacker

18

Martín Zubimendi

Midfielder

11

Yéremy Pino

Attacker

9

Gavi

Midfielder

1

David Raya

Goalkeeper

25

Víctor Muñoz

Attacker

13

Joan García

Goalkeeper

2

Marc Pubill

Defender

7

Ferran Torres

Attacker

74'

6

Mikel Merino

Midfielder

78'

20

Pedri

Midfielder

78'

5

Marcos Llorente

Midfielder

84'

17

Nico Williams

Attacker

84'

Tottenham full-back Pedro Porro has scored for Spain to put them 2-0 up against France in tonight’s World Cup 2026 semi-final clash.

It was a lovely move and a superb finish by Porro, who fired past France goalkeeper Mike Maignan with all the quality and confidence of a centre-forward.

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However, watch the video clip below and you’ll see that Aston Villa left-back Lucas Digne completely fell asleep to allow acres of space for Porro on that side…

INCREDIBLE ?

Spain one-two their way through the France defense and Pedro Porro doubles his country's lead… pic.twitter.com/DFGCLMzFUC

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 14, 2026

Porro made no mistake after being played in so well, but Digne made it that much easier for him by completely failing to spot or track his run.

Spain heading for impressive win over France

Spain will now be the big favourites to win this game, as it’s hard to see even this France team scoring three late goals at this stage.

Les Bleus have long looked like the favourites for this year’s World Cup, but it looks like their tournament may now be coming to an end.

In fairness, Spain have also looked like one of the big favourites to go all the way in this competition, having won Euro 2024 two years ago.

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Jul 15 2026, 8:04

Spain last won this trophy back in 2010, which is also the only time they’ve ever won it in their history, but they’ll perhaps be the clear frontrunners now if they see this game through.

Knocking out this France team is some statement, with the Spain defence doing well to keep elite attacking talents like Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise quiet.

In fairness, one big issue for France was the William Saliba injury in the first half, with the Arsenal defender one of the very best in the world in his position, and one of his country’s most important players.

The post Video: Pedro Porro’s superb finish puts Spain 2-0 up vs France but PL defender completely falls asleep appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur are demanding €50m to sell defender Cristian Romero, claim Sportitalia, so Inter are very unlikely to beat Barcelona to his signature.

It was reported this evening by Fabrizio Romano on his Italian language YouTube channel that Romero had been proposed to Inter by Spurs during negotiations for right-back Djed Spence.

Notably, this was an idea put forward by Tottenham directors and not a request for information by Inter.

Cuti Romero asking price set for Inter

Sportitalia transfer expert Gianluigi Longari now provides further details, which is that the asking price for the Argentina international is €50m.

That is just under what the Premier League side paid to buy him from Atalanta in 2022, the fee then €53.8m after an initial loan spell in 2021-22.

Although he only recently signed a new contract in August 2025, the rapport between the defender and Tottenham has plummeted in recent months.

Both club and player believe their time together is over, but with a contract until 2029, they need to reach an agreement.

Inter had already baulked at paying €50m for Marco Palestra, a young player with future sale value, so are unlikely to shell out a similar sum for a centre-back, not to mention his wage demands.

The 28-year-old already knows Serie A well, having played for Genoa, Juventus and Atalanta.

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The post World Cup 2026 Live: Two assists for Messi as Argentina come from behind to beat England 2-1 appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arsenal centre-back William Saliba has gone off injured in the first half of tonight’s World Cup semi-final clash between France and Spain.

The Frenchman was unable to continue as he seemed to have a sudden problem with his back, and he’s been replaced by Maxence Lacroix.

It is not yet clear how serious this injury for Saliba will prove to be, but it’s perhaps not a great sign that he was taken off immediately despite suffering this problem when there wasn’t anyone around him.

Watch below for the moment Saliba simply had to stop playing as he fell to the ground…

i feel so bad for saliba pic.twitter.com/E9n3oQCRDm

— ola ! (@bIuezoya) July 14, 2026

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Saliba was a star performer for Arsenal as they won the Premier League title in 2025/26, and he’s been key for France at this World Cup as well.

It remains to be seen if this will now be his final moment at this tournament, with France 1-0 down to Spain at the time of writing, while one imagines there could be doubts over his fitness for the start of the new club season as well.

William Saliba’s injury concerns going into this World Cup

This is not the first time we’ve heard about Saliba having a back problem, as it was reported as being an issue for him ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

The 25-year-old was reported as looking likely to miss the World Cup, as per ESPN, though in the end he was able to take part, at least until this evening’s flare-up.

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Meanwhile, L’Equipe also reported that Saliba may require surgery after the tournament, which could mean a delay to the start of the 2026/27 campaign with Arsenal.

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After playing so much football for Arsenal as they won the title and reached two cup finals in the season just gone, it’s not too surprising that it’s all caught up with Saliba a little bit.

AFC supporters will just be hoping this doesn’t mean he’ll be out for a really lengthy period, or they’re surely going to find it very hard to replace him.

The post Major worry for Arsenal as important Gunners star goes off injured during France-Spain appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Milan stars Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot start for France in the World Cup semi-final against Spain, but Roma midfielder Manu Koné drops back to the bench.

It kicks off in Dallas at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners will play either England or Argentina in the World Cup Final on July 19.

France have emerged as the undoubted favourites to win the trophy after a series of dominant performances in USA, Canada and Mexico, winning all six matches with 16 goals scored and just three conceded.

There is a change for Didier Deschamps, because while Roma midfielder Koné has been the breakout star of the competition for them, he is benched today in favour of fit again Aurelien Tchouaméni.

It means there are only two Serie A players in the starting XI, both representing Milan with goalkeeper Maignan and midfielder Rabiot.

Kylian Mbappé leads the way with support from Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé, but Bradley Barcola is preferred to Désiré Doué.

There are no Serie A players in the Spain squad, but after a dismal start with the shock 0-0 against Cape Verde, they’ve gone from strength to strength in this World Cup.

Unai Simon set a new record for most minutes without conceding at the World Cup, ended by Charles De Ketelaere in a 2-1 quarter-final win over Belgium.

They start the same line-up as that game, meaning late goal hero Mikel Merino is again going to come off the bench as a super-sub after scoring in the Round of 16 and the quarter-final.

Mikel Oyarzabal is top scorer with four goals, supported by Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena.

Former Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz again pushes Pedri onto the bench.

France vs. Spain line-ups

France: Maignan; Koundé, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne; Tchouaméni, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Barcola; Mbappé

Spain: Unai Simon; Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal

14-07-2026 20:00

Semi-final

AT&T Stadium

France

Spain

0 - 2

Player statistic

1st half

Adrien Rabiot		9'
		22'		Mikel Oyarzabal
		31'		Marc Cucurella

2nd half

		58'		Pedro Porro (Assist: Dani Olmo)
Kylian Mbappé		86'

Match statistic

49

Possession %

51

10

Total shots

10

3

Shots on target

2

5

Shots off target

5

2

Blocked shots

3

7

Corners

1

4

Offsides

5

11

Fouls

12

France

Spain

Starting lineups

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

4

Dayot Upamecano

Defender

5

Jules Koundé

Defender

3

Lucas Digne

Defender

72'

17

William Saliba

Defender

30'

14

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

46'

8

Aurélien Tchouaméni

Midfielder

11

Michael Olise

Midfielder

72'

12

Bradley Barcola

Attacker

57'

10

Kylian Mbappé

Attacker

7

Ousmane Dembélé

Attacker

23

Unai Simón

Goalkeeper

14

Aymeric Laporte

Defender

24

Marc Cucurella

Defender

22

Pau Cubarsí

Defender

12

Pedro Porro

Defender

84'

15

Álex Baena

Midfielder

84'

8

Fabián Ruiz

Midfielder

78'

16

Rodri

Midfielder

10

Dani Olmo

Attacker

78'

19

Lamine Yamal

Attacker

21

Mikel Oyarzabal

Attacker

74'

Substitutes

19

Theo Hernández

Defender

13

N’Golo Kanté

Midfielder

15

Ibrahima Konaté

Defender

21

Lucas Hernández

Defender

2

Malo Gusto

Defender

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

18

Warren Zaïre-Emery

Midfielder

1

Brice Samba

Goalkeeper

22

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Attacker

23

Robin Risser

Goalkeeper

26

Maxence Lacroix

Defender

30'

6

Manu Koné

Midfielder

46'

20

Désiré Doué

Midfielder

57'

24

Rayan Cherki

Attacker

72'

25

Maghnes Akliouche

Midfielder

72'

4

Eric García

Defender

3

Alejandro Grimaldo

Defender

26

Borja Iglesias

Attacker

18

Martín Zubimendi

Midfielder

11

Yéremy Pino

Attacker

9

Gavi

Midfielder

1

David Raya

Goalkeeper

25

Víctor Muñoz

Attacker

13

Joan García

Goalkeeper

2

Marc Pubill

Defender

7

Ferran Torres

Attacker

74'

6

Mikel Merino

Midfielder

78'

20

Pedri

Midfielder

78'

5

Marcos Llorente

Midfielder

84'

17

Nico Williams

Attacker

84'

Declan Rice is looking better after a recent battle with a sickness bug that left him bed-ridden for three days, according to Sky Sports.

Watch below for a video update from England’s training base earlier today as Rice could be seen taking part in a session ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup semi-final clash against Argentina.

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France take on Spain in today’s first semi-final, and by tomorrow night we’ll know whether or not it’s England joining one of those two in this year’s World Cup final.

Luckily for England manager Thomas Tuchel, it now looks like he should have Arsenal midfielder Rice fit and available and in good condition to take on Argentina…

England are training for the final time before their World Cup semi-final with Argentina ???????

Declan Rice is with the squad, who looks to have fully recovered from illness ? pic.twitter.com/MeaoKiOnnz

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) July 14, 2026

The report explains that everyone is in England training now, apart from Jordan Henderson, who injured his arm in that freak incident celebrating the Three Lions’ victory over Mexico.

That’s encouraging, as there have also been some fitness concerns for Reece James during this tournament, so perhaps there’s now hope of him starting tomorrow night as well.

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Can England beat World Cup holders Argentina?

England face old rivals Argentina tomorrow and it’s sure to be their toughest test of the World Cup so far.

Tuchel’s side have shown remarkable character and resilience at times in this year’s competition, but they’ll really need to up their game once again if they are to get past Lionel Messi and co.

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Argentina are the reigning world champions and will no doubt be desperate to win the trophy again for what seems highly likely to be Messi’s last ever World Cup.

If England can get past Lionel Scaloni’s side, it’s a huge statement that they can go all the way and win this competition for the first time since 1966.

The post “Looks absolutely fine” – positive update on England star’s availability for Argentina clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

There are reports Argentina will start one Serie A player in the World Cup semi-final against England, but it is not going to be Lautaro Martinez of Inter or Como’s Nico Paz.

The big match kicks off in Atlanta on Wednesday at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners go onto the Final on July 19 against either France or Spain to decide who lifts the trophy.

Argentina hoping to defend World Cup title

Argentina were pushed to the limit in the knockout rounds so far in the defence of the title they won in 2022.

They needed extra time to get the better of Cape Verde 3-2, fighting back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2, then again requiring extra time to defeat 10-man Switzerland 3-1.

Inter striker Lautaro Martinez scored off the bench in the quarter-final, but he is again not expected to be in the starting XI tomorrow, with Julian Alvarez preferred as partner to Lionel Messi.

A big surprise mentioned in TyC Sports is that former Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul could be dropped in favour of a more attacking figure.

This could be Giuliano Simeone, brother of Torino forward Giovanni, but more likely is Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez.

He spent this season on loan with Atletico Madrid, but the club has not activated the option to make it permanent.

Although he contributed one assist and featured in five of Argentina’s six games in this World Cup, Nico Gonzalez is yet to start.

Another potential switch for Argentina is to see Nahuel Molina preferred to Gonzalo Montiel at right-back.

Molina is another former Serie A player for Udinese, who has been linked with a possible return for Inter.

Argentina probable line-up: E Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico; Nico Gonzalez, Paredes, Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez; Messi, Julian Alvarez

The build-up to England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina has taken a controversial turn following FIFA’s choice of referee.

With Thomas Tuchel’s side attempting to reach their first final since 1966 and the defending champions chasing consecutive titles, every decision in Atlanta will face enormous scrutiny.

Argentina’s knockout run has already produced complaints about VAR and refereeing, so the appointment was always likely to attract attention.

However, previous connections between the selected official and matches involving Lionel Messi have intensified the debate before a ball has even been kicked.

FIFA appointment adds pre-match controversy

According to the Daily Mail, concerns about possible favouritism have grown after FIFA appointed Ismail Elfath to referee Wednesday’s semi-final.

The Moroccan-born American will be assisted by Corey Parker and Kyle Atkins, while Italy’s Maurizio Mariani has been named fourth official.

ESPN has also confirmed Elfath’s appointment for the match at Atlanta Stadium. He has already handled three games at this World Cup, although this will be his first involving either England or Argentina.

Elfath served as fourth official when Argentina defeated France in the 2022 World Cup final.

He has also refereed several Inter Miami matches since Messi moved to MLS, including the 2023 Leagues Cup final against Nashville.

Calling him Messi’s “favourite referee”, however, remains a media description rather than evidence of an improper relationship or biased decision-making.

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Officials face scrutiny ahead of Argentina vs England

The wider concern comes from controversy surrounding Argentina’s victories over Egypt and Switzerland.

Reuters reported that opponents have repeatedly complained about decisions benefiting Argentina, although former FIFA referee Christina Unkel said the incidents she reviewed did not clearly demonstrate poor officiating.

FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has also rejected allegations of bias, insisting that World Cup officials work independently and that questioning their integrity without evidence is unacceptable.

Elfath should be judged on Wednesday’s performance rather than his previous contact with Messi.

Referees frequently oversee the same leading players, especially when they work in the league where those players compete.

Still, FIFA must understand why the appointment has created nervousness. After several disputed decisions involving Argentina, even a correct but marginal call could trigger another major backlash.

Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England 

The post England vs Argentina semifinal fuels favouritism debate as FIFA announce decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Italy legend Roberto Baggio feels Lionel Messi is better than Pelé and Diego Armando Maradona ‘for what he’s been doing for 20 years’, while Marco Materazzi picks ‘the real’ Ronaldo.

Baggio and Materazzi joined other football legends for a debate on football, including the best player of all time.

Baggio picks Messi over Maradona and Pelé

The former Azzurri stars were joined by other legends, including Gabriel Omar Batistuta, Ronaldo, and Romario.

When the debate focused on the best player of all time, with Messi, Pelé and Maradona in contention, Baggio said: “It’s very hard; it’s even ugly to rank, as we are talking about the absolute essence of football. These three have been above the others.

“As of today, I’d say Messi for what he’s been doing for 20 years, in terms of quality and quantity. If I have to pick one, I’ll say his name, but we are talking about three incredible players.”

Materazzi, on the other hand, picked another player sitting at the same table: “I always say this, for me, it’s him [Ronaldo]. Because what he did without two knees, going 150 km/h, nobody has done it. I’m a boomer, but when I watch YouTube, and I see what he used to do, at a time when defenders hit hard, you feel he was Martian, and he really was a Martian.

“Sorry, Diego, Pelé and Messi. To me, it was him, the Phenomenon. The Real Ronaldo, but respect to Cristiano.”

Materazzi won the 2006 World Cup with the Italy national team, scoring two goals during that tournament, including the equaliser in the Final against France. That was the only World Cup Materazzi played.

Baggio, on the other hand, took part in three editions of the World Cup in 1990, 1994 and 1998 and famously missed a penalty in the 1994 Final against Brazil.

• READ MORE: Messi gifts Baggio Argentina shirt after World Cup quarter-final

England’s preparations for their World Cup semi-final against Argentina have been complicated by a late fitness concern in midfield.

Thomas Tuchel’s side are one victory away from reaching their first World Cup final since 1966, making the availability of every senior player especially important.

The Three Lions showed resilience to defeat Norway 2-1 after extra time in the quarter-final, but the demanding conditions and quick turnaround have taken a physical toll.

With Argentina likely to crowd central areas and look to control possession through Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Rodrigo De Paul, England will want their strongest possible midfield available in Atlanta.

England remain optimisitc despite illness concern

According to the BBC, England will make a late decision on Declan Rice’s availability for Wednesday’s semi-final.

The Arsenal midfielder is still experiencing the effects of a sickness bug, although his condition is improving and the England camp remain optimistic that he will be able to start.

Rice missed training sessions before the Norway game and was substituted at half-time after struggling physically.

However, The Guardian reports that he is winning his fitness battle, with Tuchel hoping to pair him with Elliot Anderson against the defending champions.

The midfielder’s importance goes beyond his defensive work. Rice gives England experience, protects the centre-backs and provides the physical power needed to compete with Argentina’s aggressive midfield.

If he cannot start, Kobbie Mainoo or Eberechi Eze could be considered, although either selection would change the balance of the team.

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Tuchel must avoid taking unnecessary risk

England’s official match information confirms that the semi-final will be played at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday evening, with the winner advancing to Sunday’s final.

It will be the countries’ first meeting for 21 years and their first World Cup encounter since 2002. England Football has also highlighted the long and often controversial history surrounding the rivalry.

Rice should start only if England’s medical staff are convinced he can maintain his intensity. A semi  final against Argentina is not the match to carry a midfielder who is still feeling weak.

However, his influence makes waiting until the last possible moment understandable.

A fully functioning Rice could be crucial to stopping Argentina from controlling the game, but an unwell version may leave England exposed when the tempo rises.

Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England

The post England boss Tuchel faces selection headache ahead of Argentina clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

After turning down reported offers of over €25m for Trevoh Chalobah, it’s now reported in Italy that Chelsea are frustrated Inter and Como are looking elsewhere.

The defender is currently at the World Cup with England preparing for Wednesday’s semi-final against Argentina, but his future remains up in the air.

A bidding war had broken out for the 27-year-old, between Serie A sides Inter and Como, but the asking price of €35m has put them off.

Chalobah too expensive for Inter and Como

Another change was the Gazzetta dello Sport report last week that the two Italian clubs had agreed on a pact not to one-up each other, so Como backed off Chalobah and instead focused on Galatasaray defender Davinson Sanchez.

Now Sportitalia transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà and Sky Sport Italia both claim that Chelsea have contacted Inter and Como to ask if they are still interested in Chalobah.

The excessive asking price has put both off, so they are currently looking at other targets instead.

It is not just the Chelsea demand that is causing problems, but also the salary his agents are requesting.

Inter have the added problem of now needing to seek a new wing-back, seeing as Marco Palestra was poached by Chelsea and Anan Khalaili failed a medical.

Italian reports suggest Roma turned down a €40m offer from Atletico Madrid for Manu Koné, but would be ready to sell if they, Manchester United or Liverpool came in with at least €60m.

The midfielder had already been targeted by Inter in recent months and was given a price tag of €50m, but that has risen considerably thanks to his stellar performances for France at the 2026 World Cup.

As they prepare to face Spain in the semi-final tomorrow evening, his profile continues to soar and attract attention.

Kone asking price will not budge

According to the Corriere dello Sport, Roma received a bid from Atletico Madrid worth just €40m and rejected it outright this summer.

That is not going to be enough to make them sell, especially now that Manchester United and Liverpool look prepared to spark a Premier League bidding war.

Roma have never disguised that the 25-year-old is potentially on the transfer market, but also that they will only part with Koné if a suitable offer arrives.

He was purchased from Borussia Monchengladbach in the summer of 2024 for just €18m plus up to a further €2m in add-ons.

Roma owner Ryan Friedkin is expected at the Trigoria training camp today for talks with coach Gian Piero Gasperini and new director of sport Tony D’Amico to clarify their transfer strategy.

Goncalo Ramos is showing just how eager he is to start his new Milan adventure, arriving at the training camp today despite still being on vacation after the World Cup with Portugal.

The striker completed his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain at a cost of anywhere from €74m to €90m, depending on various reports and bonuses.

He was participating in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico with Portugal, and as that experience just concluded in the quarter-final, he is due several more weeks of vacation time.

Goncalo Ramos pays surprise Milan visit

𝐕𝐎𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐀 𝐃𝐈 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐍

Sorpresa a Milanello: Gonçalo Ramos nonostante sia ancora in ferie è venuto a fare un primo salto e parlare con Ruben Amorim

Valeria Lippera per https://t.co/jlTDBgF49e#ramos #milanello #milanpress pic.twitter.com/C3Cr7nticv

— MilanPress.it (@MilanPress_it) July 13, 2026

However, Ramos proved his enthusiasm by arriving at the Milanello training camp today for a surprise visit accompanied by his family.

The striker was greeted by coach Ruben Amorim and club owner Gerry Cardinale, then taken to meet his new teammates.

It’s believed he wanted to get a good idea of the training facilities before coming to work in earnest over the summer, and will now return to Lisbon for more vacation time.

This was no ordinary day, as it was the first of pre-season training with the whole squad coming together.

 

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Inter are in contact with free agent John Stones, claim reports in Italy, but the former Manchester City man would not be considered a first choice for central defence.

This is not the first time that the 32-year-old has been linked with a possible move to Serie A this summer, seeing as his contract with Manchester City was allowed to run down.

He still has much to give, as confirmed by the fact he is playing for England at the 2026 World Cup and now preparing for Wednesday’s semi-final against Argentina.

Stones offered to various Serie A sides

Napoli and Juventus had been in talks, but didn’t seem particularly eager to pursue the deal.

Now Sportitalia transfer pundit Alfredo Pedullà claims that Inter are in direct negotiations with Stones and his entourage.

However, it is noted that this would only be if Benjamin Pavard was first sold, and that Stones would not be guaranteed regular playing time, as he is not a first choice at centre-back for the Italian giants.

Other clubs who have been linked with the free agent include Bayern Munich and Olympique Marseille, but his salary demands and signing-on fee requests are putting some off.

Argentina’s preparations for their blockbuster World Cup semi-final against England have taken an unexpected turn, with the reigning champions making a special request regarding the kit they will wear in Atlanta.

The decision may seem like a minor detail compared with team selection and tactics, but shirts often carry emotional and historical meaning in international football.

With Argentina and England sharing one of the World Cup’s most famous rivalries, the choice of colours has already created another talking point before Wednesday’s meeting.

Argentina await FIFA decision over blue kit

According to journalist Gastón Edul, Argentina have requested permission to wear their blue away jersey against England.

A final decision is expected on Tuesday, just one day before the two teams compete for a place in the World Cup final.

Argentina have worn the blue strip only once during this tournament, in their 3-1 group-stage victory over Jordan.

England have been designated as the home team for the semi-final, which provides a practical explanation for Argentina’s request, although the traditional light-blue-and-white shirt would not necessarily create a major colour clash.

There may also be a superstitious element. Argentina wore darker away colours during their famous World Cup victories over England in 1986 and 1998, creating a possible sense of good fortune around the shirt.

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Historic rivalry adds meaning to unusual request

The Football Association has confirmed that England and Argentina will meet in Atlanta on Wednesday, 15th July, at 8pm BST.

England reached the last four by beating Norway 2-1 after extra time, while Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 following another extended quarter-final.

The kit request adds another fascinating layer to an already enormous match.

Argentina are usually instantly recognisable in their striped home shirt, but the dark-blue jersey carries its own history against England.

Ultimately, the colour will not decide the result. Tactics, fitness and handling the pressure will matter far more.

Still, football is full of rituals, and if Argentina believe the blue shirt gives them even a small psychological lift, it is understandable that they want to wear it.

“He doesn’t really know” – Jude Bellingam brutally fires back at Thomas Tuchel’s England criticism

The post Argentina make special request to FIFA ahead of their World Cup semi against England appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Roma midfielder Manu Koné could be benched in favour of Aurelien Tchaouameni for the World Cup semi-final against Spain, though Milan’s Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot will start.

The match is scheduled for Tuesday evening, with the winner going on to face either Argentina or England in the Final.

According to L’Equipe, Real Madrid midfielder Tchaoumeni has fully recovered from his muscular issues and is going to be risked from the start.

Koné set to step aside for France

He had been replaced by Roma player Koné, who had impressed so much that former Genoa coach Patrick Vieira said he was the best midfielder currently in the France squad.

Nonetheless, the reports from the Bleus camp suggest he will be pushed to the bench for the big match by Tchaouameni.

The Roma star was on the bench for the games against Senegal and Sweden, but started the others with Iraq, Norway, Paraguay and Morocco.

There is still going to be Serie A representation in the form of Milan pair Maignan and Rabiot.

The trio of Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappé are untouchable, but the other big choice for Didier Deschamps is between Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola.

Other than that, it is set to be the same XI that beat Morocco in the quarter-final.

Argentina’s dramatic extra time win over Switzerland to set up a World Cup semi-final with England was not just a strain for the players on the pitch, but also Como’s Nico Paz off it.

The reigning world champions have stuttered throughout the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Despite playing against 10 men after Breel Embolo’s red card, Argentina were still forced to go to extra time last night, eventually squeezing through 3-1 with Julian Alvarez’s curler and a late Lautaro Martinez goal.

Nico Paz feeling the stress

It took a lot out of the players on the field, and those off it too, as confirmed by Nico Paz.

The 21-year-old Como player revealed on social media that his wearable technology showed his stress levels as ‘high’ during the match, when he was just sitting on the bench.

The technology is worn by all players to monitor their vital signs as well as track their performances on the field.

Nico Paz has made two appearances in the World Cup so far, as a substitute in the 3-0 victory over Algeria, and then starting the 3-1 win over Jordan.

Argentina will play England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, with France taking on Spain on Tuesday.

Lautaro Martinez struck in the 121st minute to help Argentina on their way to the 2026 World Cup semi-final in the early hours of Sunday morning, but some feel that the Inter skipper was fortunate to avoid a second yellow and a suspension for the upcoming last-four tie with England. Here’s why El Toro escaped punishment. 

How Lautaro Martinez escaped second yellow card in Argentina 3-1 Switzerland

Lautaro was initially named on the substitutes’ bench for Argentina’s eventual 3-1 quarter-final win against Switzerland in Kansas City, but emerged off the bench in the 84th minute and contributed his nation’s third goal of the night in the 121st minute of the tie to put the game beyond any doubt.

Lautaro was on a booking at the time of his goal, and some eagle-eyed fans believe that he should have been shown a second yellow and sent off for his celebrations. Had that been the case, the Inter striker would have been suspended for the World Cup semi-final against England coming up on Wednesday night. 

That is because Lautaro jumped over the advertising hoardings and went right up to the Argentina supporters behind the goal while celebrating his 121st-minute settler. 

Under the IFAB laws of the game, a player should be shown a yellow card if he approaches supporters in a way that creates any potential crowd safety issues. 

However, as Lautaro’s celebrations in front of the stands only lasted for a brief moment, and given that he didn’t even attempt to touch or engage with the fans in front of him, the officials felt that this specific incident did not require further punishment. 

Lautaro Martinez with the icing on the cake for Argentina pic.twitter.com/7iHow8lZeK

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 12, 2026

Greatness recognises greatness: Lionel Messi was photographed alongside Italy legend Roberto Baggio and gave him a match-worn shirt shortly after Argentina’s 2026 World Cup quarter-final victory over Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning. 

Messi and Baggio team up for iconic photograph

Baggio was in attendance in Kansas City as Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra-time to book their place in the World Cup semi-final for the third time in four tournaments. 

Baggio was photographed alongside the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, widely recognised as the greatest player of all time, and was given one of his match-worn shirts after the full-time whistle. 

“Thank you, Leo, for your precious gift and for your affection. I love you lots, my friend,” wrote Baggio , all smiles in a picture posted to his Instagram profile.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Roberto Baggio (@robertobaggio)

The quarter-final stage of the 2026 World Cup is complete, and a total of six Serie A players will be progressing through to the tournament’s semi-finals, which will kick off with France vs. Spain on Tuesday evening. 

France eliminated Morocco 2-0 in their quarter-final on Tuesday, Spain overcame Belgium 2-1, England defeated Norway 2-1 in extra-time on Saturday night and Argentina needed the full 120 minutes again to get past Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning, eventually finishing at 3-1.

Now, only six Serie A players are left heading into the World Cup semi-finals. Four of them represent France and two represent Argentina. 

The France squad boasts Milan pair Mike Maignan and Adrien Rabiot, along with Roma midfielder Manu Kone and Inter forward Marcus Thuram. Argentina have Thuram’s regular strike partner Lautaro Martinez as well as Como superstar Nico Paz in their ranks.

A total of 15 Serie A players were eliminated at the quarter-final stage, including Norway’s quintet of Italian-based players: Morten Thorsby, Leo Ostigard, Marcus Holmgren Pedersen, Torbjorn Heggem and Kristian Thorstvedt. 

Belgium also had five Serie A players in their ranks, namely Napoli pair Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, Milan duo Koni De Winter and Alexis Saelemaekers and Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere.

Roma’s Neil El-Aynaoui (Morocco) and Switzerland quartet Manuel Akani (Inter), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Ardon Jashari (Milan) and Michel Aebischer (Pisa) were the other Italian-based players to be eliminated during the World Cup quarter-finals.

Which Serie A players are left standing at the 2026 World Cup?

France: Manu Kone (Roma), Marcus Thuram (Inter), Adrien Rabiot (Milan), Mike Maignan (Milan).

Spain: None.

England: None.

Argentina: Nico Paz (Como), Lautaro Martinez (Inter).

Inter captain Lautaro Martinez struck in the 121st minute of Argentina’s World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland in the early hours of Sunday morning to confirm his nation’s spot in the semis, where they will go up against archrivals England. 

Argentina required extra-time to overcome Switzerland in their 2026 World Cup quarter-final, which ended 3-1 thanks to Lautaro’s tie-settling strike right at the end of proceedings. Lionel Scaloni’s side have had to play 120 minutes in all three of their knock-out matches at the tournament so far. 

Alexis Mac Allister gave the reigning World Champions a 10th-minute lead, which was cancelled out by former Bologna winger Dan Ndoye in the 67th minute. Julian Alvarez sent Argentina 2-1 up in the second half of extra-time and Lautaro put the game to bed in injury-time.

It was Thiago Almada who had carried the ball into the area and tested Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel with a low shot, which was saved and parried to Lautaro, who made no mistake with his first-time finish on the rebound.

This was the Inter striker’s second ever World Cup goal, his second at the 2026 tournament following his penalty in Argentina’s 3-1 group stage victory over Jordan.

Watch: Lautaro Martinez sends Argentina through to World Cup semi-finals

Lautaro Martinez with the icing on the cake for Argentina pic.twitter.com/7iHow8lZeK

— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 12, 2026

Norway vs England takes place on Saturday evening, for a place in the World Cup semi-finals, in a quarter-final pitting the tournament’s most feared striker against the Three Lions’ title ambitions.

The two sides arrived by contrasting routes. England survived a 3-2 thriller against hosts Mexico at the Azteca, holding on with ten men to progress, while Norway followed up Erling Haaland’s late winner against Ivory Coast by dumping out five-time champions Brazil, the win that carried them to a first World Cup quarter-final.

Haaland has been the driving force, scoring five goals in his first three appearances at the finals.

There is a strong Serie A flavour to the Scandinavian squad.

Alexander Sorloth, linked with Juventus this window as a possible Dusan Vlahovic replacement, supports Haaland in attack, while Sassuolo midfielder Kristian Thorstvedt provides an option on the bench.

Bologna’s Tobjorn Heggem starts in central defence for Norway.

In the England camp, Trevoh Chalobah, the subject of Inter interest and a rebuffed €25 million bid from Como this summer, is among the defensive contingent, as is John Stones, who starts for the Three Lions amid interest from the likes of Inter.

World Cup 2026: Norway vs England Lineups

Norway XI: Nyland; Ryerson, Ajer, Heggem, Moller Wolfe; Berg, Odegaard, Berge; Schjelderup, Haaland, Sorloth
England XI: Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O’Reilly; Rice, Anderson, Bellingham; Madueke, Kane, Gordon

Kevin De Bruyne has reassured Napoli supporters that he will come back stronger next season, hours after Belgium’s World Cup ended in quarter-final heartbreak.

The Red Devils bowed out following a tight 2-1 defeat to Spain, undone late on by Mikel Merino’s winner.

De Bruyne was among Belgium’s key men across the tournament, and he was stopped by DAZN in the mixed zone afterwards and asked whether he had a message for the Napoli faithful.

“Let me take a break, I’ve just finished the last game of the season. It’s been a tough year, I worked hard and I’ve shown I can return in top condition after a very serious injury,” he said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

“Let me take a break and then I’ll be back.”

De Bruyne eyes strong Napoli return after injury-hit year

The comments speak to what has been a testing first campaign in Naples for the former Manchester City playmaker, whose debut season was disrupted by a significant injury.

That he was able to recover in time to play a leading role for Belgium at the World Cup underlines the point he was keen to make.

Now the focus shifts to next season under Massimiliano Allegri, with De Bruyne set for a short rest before returning to build on his first year at the club.

For Napoli, keeping their marquee signing fit and firing will be central to their bid to wrestle back the ground ceded to the division’s front-runners.

Mario Balotelli has made Inter the team to beat in Serie A next season, but the striker named Roma as his surprise pick to gatecrash the title race.

According to Sport Mediaset, via TuttoMercatoWeb, Balotelli, now with Al-Ittifaq in Dubai, predicted champions Inter to remain at the summit while singling out an outsider.

Asked whether Napoli, Milan and Juventus were genuine contenders, he replied: “Yes, but I want to add a surprise: Roma.” On the reigning champions, he was unequivocal: “Inter remain the team to beat.”

That verdict chimed with his admiration for former Inter teammate Cristian Chivu, now in the San Siro dugout.

“He was always switched on, even as a player, already a coach on the pitch, tactically ready and intelligent,” Balotelli said of the man he won the 2010 treble alongside.

Balotelli reveals near-Juventus move and backs Allegri at Napoli

The former Manchester City man also lifted the lid on a transfer that never materialised.

“Yes, after Manchester City. Then I ended up at Milan, so no regrets, it was a choice,” he said. “Of course, that Juventus side was strong.”

He had warm words, too, for Massimiliano Allegri as the coach starts afresh at Napoli. “Recently I’ve read a lot of criticism of him, but when I had him at Milan I liked him a great deal,” Balotelli said. “If he’s still that man, he’ll do well.”

There was a more sombre note when talk turned to the national side. Balotelli remains Italy’s last World Cup scorer, a mark unbroken since 2014, with the Azzurri absent from a third straight tournament this summer, and he took no pride in it.

“It’s nothing to be proud of, quite the opposite, it’s a sad thing,” he said. “Too many years have passed.”

Atalanta star Charles De Ketelaere has made history by scoring for Belgium against Spain, ending Unai Simon’s record clean sheet at the World Cup after 649 minutes.

The goalkeeper had broken the previous record set by Italy’s Walter Zenga, who had gone without conceding for 517 consecutive minutes during Italia ’90.

Spread out over two editions of the World Cup, Spain’s Unai Simon had managed to keep a clean sheet for 649 minutes of tournament football.

De Ketelaere ends World Cup clean sheet streak

It was ended by a wonderful glancing header from Atalanta attacking player De Ketelaere, who was acting as a False 9 for Belgium in the competition.

De Ketelaere scored his third goal in two games for Belgium, cancelling out the Spain opener that had been tapped in by former Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz.

Spain have conceded their first goal of the World Cup

Charles De Ketelaere scores the equaliser for Belgium pic.twitter.com/B3Z5W2TdCo

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 10, 2026

He had also bagged a brace along with an assist in the 4-1 Round of 16 victory over the USMNT.

The winner of this quarter-final will go on to face France in the semi-final of the World Cup.

Italian media suggest Manchester United used the Ederson medical as an excuse to withdraw from the €45m Atalanta deal, so could now turn their focus to Roma’s France international Manu Kone instead.

Multiple sources reported this evening that Manchester United had informed Atalanta of their intention to abandon the transfer, which had been agreed back on June 2.

It would’ve been €40.5m fixed fee plus a further €4.5m in performance-related add-ons.

Manchester United saw Kone opportunity with Ederson

The two clubs agreed to wait until after Ederson had finished his participation at the 2026 World Cup with Brazil before completing the necessary medical tests, following an initial quick check-up in the United States.

However, as the weeks wore on, Manchester United started to get cold feet and requested more in-depth medical examinations.

After 48 hours of those scans, today the Premier League side informed Atalanta they would not be going ahead with the move.

According to the Italian media reporting of the situation, including Sportitalia, Atalanta are entirely confident there are no serious fitness issues for Ederson.

They believe it is no coincidence that Manchester United saw an opportunity to change their minds after the rumours of growing interest in Roma midfielder Manu Kone.

The two play very similar roles, so buying both for a total cost of around €100m would be excessive even for the Old Trafford side.

If they have withdrawn from the Ederson move, it is now far more likely that they will dive in with a proposal for Roma’s Kone.

He has seen his value and profile soar after performances for France at the 2026 World Cup, where he pushed Aurelien Tchaouameni out of the starting XI.

In a shocking twist, multiple sources report tonight that Manchester United have pulled out of their €45m deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson.

The agreement had been reached in June, with the club ready to pay €40.5m in guaranteed fees and an additional €4.5m in bonuses.

However, it was not finalised as the player was in the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Ederson dropped by Manchester United

When they were eliminated, Manchester United requested that he undergo extra intensive medical tests before giving the all-clear.

Those were completed over the last 48 hours, but now Sky Sport Italia, Fabrizio Romano and more all claim Manchester United informed Atalanta they were pulling out of the transfer.

Atalanta are confident that this is not caused by the medical tests or any long-term injury, as they believe Manchester United simply changed their minds about the whole deal.

La Dea insist that if Ederson did have a serious injury, he would not have been part of the squad at the World Cup with Brazil.

His contract only runs to June 2028, so now it remains to be seen if he will be sold elsewhere or become part of the group under new coach Maurizio Sarri.

Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere and Napoli’s Kevin De Bruyne start for Belgium against Spain in the World Cup quarter-final, as Romelu Lukaku is only fit for the bench.

It kicks off in Los Angeles at 20.00 UK time (21.00 CEST).

The winners of this tie will go on to face tournament favourites France in the semi-final.

Belgium have several Serie A players involved and they were decisive in thumping co-hosts USA 4-1 in the last game.

De Ketelaere impressed as a False 9 with two goals, while Lukaku scored again when coming off the bench, as he is still not fully fit after missing most of Napoli’s season through injury.

The Atalanta man therefore starts upfront once more, with Lukaku ready to come on later, but the change is De Bruyne returning to the starting XI.

The competition is over for Amadou Onana, who tore the cruciate ligament in his knee and will be out of action for several months.

Youri Tielemans was in the starting XI, but pulled out during the warm-up, replaced by Hans Vanaken.

Spain are unbeaten against Belgium since the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, which they lost in a penalty shoot-out.

They left it late to squeeze past Portugal with a last-gasp goal from Mikel Merino in the Round of 16.

Coach Luis de la Fuente sticks with almost the same starting XI, including centre-forward Mikel Oyarzabal, who has scored four goals this tournament.

Lamine Yamal hasn’t quite delivered on his promise yet at the World Cup, but he plays with Dani Olmo and Alex Baena in support.

Nico Williams returns for a spot on the bench after his injury problems, but the change is ex-Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz preferred to Pedri.

Spain vs. Belgium line-ups

Spain: Unai Simon; Porro, Cubarsì, Laporte, Cucurella; Fabian Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Oyarzabal, Baena

Belgium: Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; De Bruyne, Raskin; Doku, Vanaken, Trossard; De Ketelaere

10-07-2026 20:00

Quarterfinal

SoFi Stadium

Spain

Belgium

2 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Fabián Ruiz		30'
		41'		Charles De Ketelaere (Assist: Timothy Castagne)
Pau Cubarsí		43'

2nd half

		85'		Charles De Ketelaere
Mikel Merino		88'
Aymeric Laporte		90+3'
		90+5'		Axel Witsel

Match statistic

68

Possession %

32

17

Total shots

5

8

Shots on target

2

4

Shots off target

1

5

Blocked shots

2

5

Corners

1

3

Offsides

1

13

Fouls

18

Spain

Belgium

Starting lineups

23

Unai Simón

Goalkeeper

14

Aymeric Laporte

Defender

24

Marc Cucurella

Defender

22

Pau Cubarsí

Defender

12

Pedro Porro

Defender

15

Álex Baena

Midfielder

55'

8

Fabián Ruiz

Midfielder

55'

16

Rodri

Midfielder

10

Dani Olmo

Attacker

86'

19

Lamine Yamal

Attacker

21

Mikel Oyarzabal

Attacker

79'

1

Thibaut Courtois

Goalkeeper

71'

5

Maxim De Cuyper

Defender

60'

4

Brandon Mechele

Defender

25

Nathan Ngoy

Defender

21

Timothy Castagne

Defender

20

Hans Vanaken

Midfielder

60'

7

Kevin De Bruyne

Midfielder

86'

23

Nicolas Raskin

Midfielder

17

Charles De Ketelaere

Attacker

11

Jérémy Doku

Attacker

10

Leandro Trossard

Attacker

60'

Substitutes

4

Eric García

Defender

5

Marcos Llorente

Midfielder

3

Alejandro Grimaldo

Defender

26

Borja Iglesias

Attacker

18

Martín Zubimendi

Midfielder

11

Yéremy Pino

Attacker

9

Gavi

Midfielder

1

David Raya

Goalkeeper

25

Víctor Muñoz

Attacker

13

Joan García

Goalkeeper

2

Marc Pubill

Defender

7

Ferran Torres

Attacker

55'

20

Pedri

Midfielder

55'

17

Nico Williams

Attacker

79'

6

Mikel Merino

Midfielder

86'

16

Koni De Winter

Defender

3

Arthur Theate

Defender

15

Thomas Meunier

Defender

14

Dodi Lukébakio

Attacker

19

Diego Moreira

Attacker

26

Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Attacker

13

Mike Penders

Goalkeeper

6

Axel Witsel

Midfielder

60'

9

Romelu Lukaku

Attacker

60'

18

Joaquin Seys

Defender

60'

12

Senne Lammens

Goalkeeper

71'

22

Alexis Saelemaekers

Midfielder

86'

Italian referee Maurizio Mariani is the favourite to officiate the 2026 World Cup Final, although pundit Mark Clattenburg claims the decision ‘would upset a lot of people.’

The Azzurri failed to qualify for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico, but did send a team of officials led by Mariani.

Speaking on the Daily Mail’s Whistleblowers podcast, Premier League refereeing expert Clattenburg claimed that the biggest job in world football will likely go to Mariani.

Mariani expected for 2026 World Cup Final

The 44-year-old already officiated the 2025-26 edition of the Conference League Final between Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano, as well as the 2025 Under-20 World Cup Final that saw Morocco beat Argentina.

In this World Cup, Mariani was wielding the whistle for Saudi Arabia’s draw with Uruguay, Colombia’s victory over DR Congo, and most notably Brazil beating Japan in the Round of 32.

However, Clattenburg insists it would be a controversial choice because Italians have already officiated three World Cup Finals since 1978.

Italians are highly critical of their own referees, yet they are still considered the best in the business, as seen by Pierluigi Collina’s role as the chair of FIFA’s referees committee, and Roberto Rosetti having the UEFA equivalent position.

“I am hearing again that it could be an Italian referee,” said Clattenburg on the podcast.

“Infantino’s Italian, Collina’s Italian. Most of the power in the refereeing and wider football world is Italian.”

This is not true, because FIFA President Gianni Infantino is from Switzerland, although his parents did have Italian origins.

“FIFA needs to keep everybody happy, all of the six confederations, and if you look at it, in 2010 the referee was English, in 2014 Italian, in 2018 Argentinian and in 2022 Polish. If we go Italian again, are we saying there’s no other referees but Italian?” added Clattenburg.

“If this year an Italian referee gets the chance again, bearing in mind what’s happened with FIFA at this tournament, it would be a big shock to me.”

The other issue of course is that the referees in the final stages cannot be from any of the countries in the running for the trophy, so as Italy failed to qualify, it would make them the logical choice for the Final.

“It would upset a lot of people if we had another Italian referee,” added Clattenburg, who refereed the EURO 2016 Final.

“I am not saying an Italian doesn’t deserve it, but there’s an awful lot of talented referees that could referee that match.”

Reports are growing that Como will improve their opening €20m offer for Galatasaray and Colombia international defender Davinson Sanchez.

There had already been Italian suggestions that the Lariani had turned towards the experienced centre-back, who turns 31 this weekend, after backing off Chelsea man Trevoh Chalobah.

Davinson Sanchez wanted by Como

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Como have already made an opening proposal to Galatasaray worth a total of around €20m including add-ons.

That might not be sufficient, as the Turkish side is holding out for closer to €25-30m, especially after his impressive 2026 World Cup campaign with Colombia.

This is not the only obstacle, because his salary of over €3m per season net is going to be a challenge for Como too.

The Turkish Super Lig is able to offer massive wage deals compared to Serie A because of the different taxation regime.

Galatasaray purchased Sanchez from Tottenham Hotspur in 2023 at a cost of €9.5m, six years after his move from Ajax to Spurs for €42m.

Atalanta have intensified talks with Kerim Alajbegovic, claim Sky Sport Italia, but Roma and Milan are among those still interested in the Bayer Leverkusen talent.

The versatile winger will turn 19 in September and is fresh off a sensational season at RB Salzburg.

That was a sale for €2m last summer, with the buy-back option set at just €8m activated on July 1.

Alajbegovic impressed at World Cup

He scored 13 goals with four assists in 44 competitive games for RB Salzburg, then became a hero for Bosnia and Herzegovina when scoring decisive goals in their World Cup play-offs.

This form continued at the tournament itself, where he started three of Bosnia’s four matches, scoring a sensational solo strike.

Primarily playing down the left wing, but also able to work on the right or as a trequartista behind a striker, Alajbegovic has caught the eye of numerous top clubs.

Sky Sport Italia claim that Atalanta are stepping up negotiations with his entourage in the hope of convincing him before they begin the real talks with his club.

Milan and Roma have also shown an interest within Serie A, along with Napoli, while Newcastle United, Sunderland and Real Betis are among the other sides keeping an eye on the situation.

Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali warns Franck Kessie, Brahim Diaz and Theo Hernandez ‘cannot be part of the plan at this moment,’ but they’re ‘waiting’ for Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa.

The Bianconeri are rebuilding after a traumatic season that saw them finish sixth in Serie A, missing out on the Champions League to qualify for the Europa League.

That hit their finances hard and affects the strategy going forward, so new director Carnevali urged fans not to listen to the media rumours of big names returning to Serie A for them.

Juventus shrug off big name rumours

Sport Mediaset asked specifically about the reports of approaches for Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz, ex-Milan left-back Theo Hernandez, and free agent Kessie.

“There is no truth to them, because these are very important players, but if we analyse their costs and values, they cannot be part of the plan at this moment for the construction of this squad,” replied Carnevali.

While Kessie would be a free agent, he still commands significant commission fees for his entourage, as well as a high salary demand.

“We have various negotiations in progress, it takes time to reflect, because we don’t want to be frenetic, the market changes every day,” added Carnevali.

“Just look at Dibu Martinez, who is playing at the World Cup, so we need to wait for that to play out. There are many situations, a club like Juventus has to be open on various different fronts and pay attention to what can happen.”

It has been reported by multiple sources that Martinez is eager to come to Juventus after a meeting where the club plans were presented, but agreeing a transfer fee with Aston Villa is proving to be more difficult.

There can be no real progress until his World Cup campaign has concluded, and Argentina are preparing to face Switzerland in the quarter-final this weekend.

Serie A players have contributed to Norway’s World Cup quarter-final qualification, with Torbjorn Heggem featuring regularly in the starting lineup and Marcus Pedersen and Leo Ostigard both on the scoresheet.

Erling Haaland has deservedly made headlines as his Norway side has qualified for the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in history. The Manchester City striker has netted seven World Cup goals so far, just one fewer than Kylian Mbappé, who has already played in the quarter-finals, scoring one goal in a 2-0 win over Morocco.

Two Serie A goals for Norway at the 2026 World Cup

As Gazzetta highlights, however, Norway’s World Cup run has also been inspired by the performances of some Serie A players.

Four footballers from Italy’s top-flight, plus Morten Thorsby, who was relegated to Serie B with Cremonese last season, are part of the Norway team at the World Cup: Marcus Pedersen (Torino), Torbjorn Heggem (Bologna), Leo Ostigard (Genoa) and Kristian Thorstvedt (Sassuolo).

Bologna’s Heggem has started every match except against France and has received no yellow cards so far, despite playing as a centre-back. Torino right-back Pedersen scored against Senegal and has collected three appearances, two as a starter.

Thorstvedt has made two appearances as a substitute. Ostigard played four matches, one as a starter against France, and scored against Iraq on the debut game, becoming the first Serie A player to score a goal at the 2026 World Cup.

Thorsby was introduced as a substitute against France in the third group stage game.

Italy are fully aware of Norway’s strength, having lost to them twice in the qualifying group stage. Norway won all ten of their games, and by the time they met Italy in the final round, winning 4-1, their goal difference was already far superior to the Azzurri’s.

Brazilian legend Romario hits out at Carlo Ancelotti following Brazil’s World Cup elimination, even arguing that the Italian tactician ‘should be taken to court.’

Brazilians are still outraged by their national team’s World Cup exit at the hands of Norway.

The Seleçao was knocked out in the Round of 16 for the first time since Italia 90, and Ancelotti’s playing style hasn’t pleased many in the country, including former striker Romário.

Romario: Brazil should sack Ancelotti

“He [Ancelotti] cannot remain Brazil’s head coach,” Romario said via Sky Sport Italia.

“If I had been in charge of the federation, I would have walked into the dressing room, told him to go to hell and torn up his contract on the spot. The match against Norway was a disgrace. I’d even take him to court. Then we’ll see what happens, but he cannot stay.

“I couldn’t even understand what he was trying to do on the pitch,” Romario continued.

“He replaced Bruno Guimaraes and put Ederson wide. He did that because he hadn’t called up any other full-back. One full-back (Wesley) got injured, and he replaced him with a central midfielder. I know there aren’t many options, but surely there’s someone better than Ederson in that position.

“We had Dunga. He lost, and he left. We had Luiz Felipe Scolari; he won the World Cup, so he stayed. We had Tite. He lost, he stayed, and then he lost again,” Romario concluded.

“Now we have this damned Ancelotti, who has lost and will keep on losing. He made a lot of mistakes at this World Cup, and none of you in the media are saying a word. If he were a Brazilian coach, you would have torn him apart by now. But because he’s a foreigner, nobody says anything.”

Reports are growing that Romelu Lukaku is a genuine target for Vincenzo Italiano’s Besiktas, but the Turkish club wants to offer just half the Napoli asking price.

The striker probably does not have a place in the squad under new coach Max Allegri at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, having already broken off his relationship with Napoli directors and staff last season.

His decision to go back to Belgium for treatment ahead of the World Cup infuriated the club, so with only one year left on his contract, an exit seems likely.

Lukaku open to Besiktas move

According to Fanatik, Besiktas first asked to view the latest Napoli and Belgium fitness reports on Lukaku, then decided it was worth progressing with negotiations.

It is claimed that they have started talks with both Napoli and the player’s entourage, with the striker open to making the move.

A major issue might be that Napoli are hoping to get €10m for the sale, whereas Besiktas are aiming for closer to €5m.

The 33-year-old was injured for most of last season, but still scored 15 goals with 11 assists in his 45 competitive appearances for Napoli.

Multiple sources confirm Atalanta midfielder Ederson had the first day of intensive medical tests with Manchester United today and will complete them on Friday for €45m.

The deal had already been done last month, with Manchester United agreeing to pay €40.5m in fixed fees plus an additional €4.5m in bonuses.

Ederson question mark for Atalanta and Manchester United

That was pending a medical, which could not be fully dealt with before now because he was participating in the 2026 World Cup with Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil.

They had an initial test in America at the Brazil camp, but the doctors warned further follow-up tests were required.

Sky Sport Italia and Fabrizio Romano both confirm this evening that Ederson underwent the first tranche of tests with Manchester United staff today.

There will be another run of examinations on Friday July 10, at which point Manchester United will decide whether or not to go ahead with the transfer.

Atalanta are confident that there are no significant issues, because otherwise he would’ve been sent home from the Brazil camp at the World Cup.

Serie A players Mike Maignan, Adrien Rabiot and Manu Koné start for France in the first World Cup quarter-final against Morocco and Roma’s Neil El Aynaoui and Anass Salah-Eddine.

It kicks off in Boston at 21.00 UK time (22.00 CEST) and the winners will go on to face either Spain or Belgium in the semi-finals.

France are the absolute favourites to win the tournament, having been the beaten finalists four years ago, and winning every match so far, even if they had to leave it late to defeat Paraguay 1-0 in the Round of 16.

There is plenty of Serie A representation, including Milan pair Maignan and Rabiot, while Roma midfielder Manu Koné keeps his spot despite Aurelien Tchaouameni shaking off a muscular injury.

Inter striker Marcus Thuram returns to the bench after his injury concerns.

Désiré Doué is preferred to Bradley Barcola in the starting XI, alongside untouchable Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé.

Morocco are not to be underestimated, because they are officially unbeaten in 34 matches, although there is still legal action from Senegal over who really won the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations final.

Roma have two players in the squad, midfielder El Aynaoui and left-back Anass Salah-Eddine, who spent last season out on loan.

Bayern Munich star Ismael Saibari is out injured after limping off in the win over Canada.

Former Serie A players include ex-Milan man Brahim Diaz, Achraf Hakimi at Inter, and former Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat.

France vs. Morocco line-ups

France: Maignan; Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Koné, Rabiot; Dembélé, Olise, Doué; Mbappé

Morocco: Bounou; Hakimi, Diop, Mazraoui, Salah-Eddine; El Aynaoui, Bouaddi; Talbi, Ounahi, El Khannouss; Brahim Diaz

09-07-2026 21:00

Quarterfinal

Gillette Stadium

France

Morocco

2 - 0

Player statistic

1st half

Kylian Mbappé

28'

2nd half

Kylian Mbappé (Assist: Désiré Doué)		60'
		63'		Issa Diop
Ousmane Dembélé (Assist: Kylian Mbappé)		66'

Match statistic

48

Possession %

52

22

Total shots

5

8

Shots on target

1

9

Shots off target

3

5

Blocked shots

1

5

Corners

5

10

Fouls

13

France

Morocco

Starting lineups

16

Mike Maignan

Goalkeeper

4

Dayot Upamecano

Defender

5

Jules Koundé

Defender

87'

3

Lucas Digne

Defender

17

William Saliba

Defender

14

Adrien Rabiot

Midfielder

20

Désiré Doué

Midfielder

77'

6

Manu Koné

Midfielder

71'

11

Michael Olise

Midfielder

10

Kylian Mbappé

Attacker

77'

7

Ousmane Dembélé

Attacker

1

Yassine Bounou

Goalkeeper

2

Achraf Hakimi

Defender

26

Anass Salah-Eddine

Defender

74'

14

Issa Diop

Defender

3

Noussair Mazraoui

Defender

6

Ayyoub Bouaddi

Midfielder

62'

8

Azzedine Ounahi

Midfielder

23

Bilal El Khannouss

Midfielder

62'

10

Brahim Díaz

Midfielder

74'

7

Chemsdine Talbi

Midfielder

85'

24

Neil El Aynaoui

Midfielder

Substitutes

19

Theo Hernández

Defender

13

N’Golo Kanté

Midfielder

15

Ibrahima Konaté

Defender

21

Lucas Hernández

Defender

24

Rayan Cherki

Attacker

8

Aurélien Tchouaméni

Midfielder

25

Maghnes Akliouche

Midfielder

9

Marcus Thuram

Attacker

1

Brice Samba

Goalkeeper

26

Maxence Lacroix

Defender

23

Robin Risser

Goalkeeper

18

Warren Zaïre-Emery

Midfielder

71'

12

Bradley Barcola

Attacker

77'

22

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Attacker

77'

2

Malo Gusto

Defender

87'

11

Ismael Saibari

Midfielder

12

Munir El Kajoui

Goalkeeper

22

Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti

Goalkeeper

20

Ayoub El Kaabi

Attacker

18

Chadi Riad

Defender

19

Youssef Belammari

Midfielder

15

Samir El Mourabet

Midfielder

21

Ayoube Amaimouni-Echghouyab

Attacker

25

Redouane Halhal

Defender

5

Marwane Saadane

Midfielder

4

Sofyan Amrabat

Midfielder

62'

9

Soufiane Rahimi

Attacker

62'

13

Zakaria El Ouahdi

Defender

74'

16

Gessime Yassine

Midfielder

74'

17

Amine Sbaï

Midfielder

85'