The Pulse of Football

Jul

2026

Preview: Spain and Argentina contest 23rd World Cup Final

Argentina and Spain face each other in the first-ever World Cup final between the reigning European and South American champions.

By Graham Ruthven

Final reckoning

After 103 matches (including the third-place playoff), the 2026 World Cup will be decided by a single match showdown between Argentina and Spain in what has the potential to be a spectacular conclusion to the tournament.

Argentina are just one win from successfully defending the title they won in Qatar with Lionel Messi just as influential as he was three-and-a-half years ago. Indeed, the 39-year-old has pushed La Albiceleste all the way to the final after inspiring Wednesday’s semi-final comeback against England.

Spain produced their best performance of the entire tournament by beating France, dominating and limiting Kylian Mbappé and co. in a way that barely looked possible ahead of the semi-final meeting in Dallas. The European champions will control a lot of Sunday’s match in New Jersey.

Messi will face the country where he spent the majority of his club career at Barcelona while Lamine Yamal will come up against the icon many consider him to be the natural heir to for the Catalans. Both players are critically important to their respective national teams.

There will be plenty to draw the eye in the first-ever meeting between the reigning European and South American champions in a World Cup final. Spain might be the strongest collective unit at the tournament, but Argentina already know what it takes to lift the biggest prize in international football.

Key players

World Cup finals are for big-name players and Sunday’s encounter will serve up plenty of them. In fact, the 2026 World Cup final will feature a Ballon d’Or winner on both sides with Rodri integral to Spain’s playing style and overall approach.

The Manchester City midfielder was at his best in the semi-final win over France, controlling the game in the centre of the pitch. Alongside Rodri, Spain also boast Fabián Ruiz as someone capable of playing forward into the final third.

Spain have conceded just once in seven matches with Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro key to the approach of the European champions, giving Luis de la Fuente some much-needed mobility in the wide areas.

Yamal, however, is the attacking difference-maker Spain will surely need to win their second World Cup. The Barcelona teenager has yet to find top form at this World Cup, but remains a critical figure.

It’s easy to pinpoint Messi as Argentina’s key player. Indeed, the 39-year-old is the tournament’s joint-top scorer (at the time time of writing) having notched eight goals in just seven appearances. Argentina’s entire approach is designed to get Messi into good positions.

Enzo Fernández gives Argentina a goal threat from central midfield while Leandro Paredes and Alexis Mac Allister are the pace-setters at the base of the midfield. Scaloni’s midfield unit provides protection and service to Messi.

Defensively, Cristian Romero generally produces his best football for Argentina with Lisandro Martínez an important part of how the defending world champions play out from the back. There will be quality over the pitch on Sunday.

Team news

De La Fuente has no significant injury concerns to handle ahead of Spain’s second-ever World Cup final with Yamal getting closer to full fitness after injury curtailed his 2025/26 campaign.

Argentina escaped any injuries and suspensions in the semi-final victory over England, meaning Lionel Scaloni will have a full squad to choose from for Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium.

Prediction

Spain have shown the kind of defensive fortitude that it takes to win major titles, and we have a feeling that the European champions will be too strong for Argentina to stage another one of their inspired comebacks. And remember, only two teams have ever won back-to-back tournaments (Italy in 1934 and ’38, and Brazil in ’58 and ’64): Spain 2-1 Argentina

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Elliot Anderson’s World Cup performances show his worth to Manchester City

Manchester City’s new £116m midfielder is showing why he’s worth the money for England at the 2026 World Cup.

By Graham Ruthven

In discussion with former Manchester City teammate John Stones as Norway waited to discover whether or not their second goal against England would stand, Erling Haaland could clearly be seen referring to a “£150m player.” The player in question, of course, being Elliot Anderson.

Ultimately, Haaland was adjudged to have pushed Anderson prior to the corner kick that produced Norway’s goal to go 2-1 up. The City forward returned home on Monday having missed out on a place in the semi-finals while the “£150m player” in question is preparing to face Argentina on Wednesday.

Of course, Haaland exaggerated the fee Manchester City have paid to sign Anderson from Nottingham Forest with the 23-year-old swapping clubs for a reported £116m. Nonetheless, that is a fee that will put a target on Anderson’s back. It’s not just his new teammates debating the money involved.

*Anderson player traits, compared with similar players in top five leagues*

When the World Cup is over, Anderson will pitch up at the Etihad Stadium as the third-most expensive signing in Premier League history behind only Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. City have smashed their club transfer record to land the England international who was also of interest to several other rivals including Manchester United.

They were right to be interested, and Manchester City were right to break the bank to sign him. Anderson’s performances for England at the World Cup have demonstrated how the 23-year-old is more than ready for the elite-level. He has been signed to be the centrepiece of Enzo Maresca’s new-look City side.

No England midfielder has averaged more accurate passes per 90 minutes at the 2026 World Cup than Anderson. Deployed at the base of the midfield, Thomas Tuchel has entrusted the former Forest player to be England’s pace-setter. The player who dictates the tempo and direction of their play.

Declan Rice was that player at past tournaments. With Anderson in the team, though, the Arsenal man has been freed up to perform the number eight role he performs so well at club level. Anderson has given England more security in the centre of the pitch, and not just in terms of his work in possession.

Out of possession, Anderson is a machine too. Against Norway, he covered 14.8km, more than any other England player, in stifling conditions. Only Djed Spence has racked up more defensive contributions per 90 over the course of the World Cup as a whole, giving England an extremely valuable barrier in front of the back four.

*England defensive contributions per 90 at the World Cup*

“It was so tough. So tough,” said Anderson after the quarter-final victory over Norway. Without the 23-year-old in the centre of the pitch, England might not have had it in them to make only their fourth-ever World Cup semi-final. “I was cramping up a few times [in extra time]. But the fighting spirit the lads have is amazing to be part of. The fans should be proud of the amount of fight and determination we showed.”

All of this should have the decision-makers at Manchester City feeling very positive about the transfer they sanctioned earlier this month. Anderson is perfect for the Etihad Stadium outfit, especially as they transition from the Pep Guardiola era to a fresh start under Maresca this season.

Some have questioned how Anderson and Rodri will fit into the same team. It’s true that Anderson’s role for his new side could be slightly different to the one he performs at international level for England in that the 23-year-old could be utilised as more of a number eight than a number six.

Alternatively, Anderson could take over from Rodri at the base of the Manchester City midfield in anticipation of the Spanish international departing the club in the near future. Rodri is into the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and has been linked with a return to Spain. Real Madrid are believed to be particularly interested.

One way or another, City will surely build around Anderson for years to come. Their rebuild started 18 months ago with the addition of players such as Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khusanov and continued last summer as Rayan Cherki and Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived. Marc Guéhi and Antoine Semenyo also joined in January.

City, however, were lacking someone of Anderson’s profile. Someone who will permit Maresca to place an even greater emphasis on the use of possession and how Manchester City construct possession sequences from deep. Having Anderson servicing Cherki, Semenyo, Jérémy Doku and Erling Haaland will make them a better team.

*Try building your own Man City starting XI using the FotMob lineup builder*

Before joining up with his new club, Anderson has the not-so-small matter of a World Cup semi-final, and potentially a final after that, to handle. Argentina will test England like no other team has this summer. The “£150m player,” however, has already proved himself at this level. He has nothing to fear.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Preview: England out for revenge against Argentina 40 years on from the Hand of God

The second semi-final at the 2026 FIFA World Cup pits England against defending champions Argentina.

By Neel Shelat

England aiming for a repeat of 1966

England’s only World Cup title came on home soil exactly 60 years ago. They defeated Argentina on their path to eternal glory, emerging 1-0 winners in the quarter-final thanks to Geoff Hurst’s late strike. That match is better remembered for Antonio Rattín’s controversial sending off, which eventually prompted the introduction of yellow and red cards.

La Albiceleste would have their revenge 20 years later, when Diego Maradona single-handedly led his side into the semi-final. Of course, they would go on to be crowned champions of the world in Mexico later that month.

These two sides have subsequently faced off twice at the World Cup, with Argentina winning the penalty shoot-out in the 1998 Round of 16 and England contributing to their opponents’ group stage elimination in 2002. However, this will be the first time they meet this deep into the tournament.

Subpar Argentina keep finding a way

Argentina haven’t looked near their best at this World Cup. While their attack has been firing for the most part as they are the top-scorers, they have failed to keep a clean sheet in each of their last four games. Although none of their knockout opponents were too tough on paper, they needed extra time to get the better of both Cabo Verde and Switzerland, and only advanced past Egypt with a dramatic late turnaround from a two-goal deficit.

And yet, Lionel Scaloni’s side have won all of their games at the tournament so far. Between their lack of traditional wingers, subpar defenders and continued reliance on one Lionel Messi, they certainly have their flaws. But, as the defending champions, they know what it takes to dig deep and find a way to win.

Team news

The suspended Jarrell Quansah is the only confirmed absentee, though the injured Jordan Henderson is never likely to feature. Fitness concerns for Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka continue to linger, potentially limiting their involvement.

Argentina have no major issues, so they can go all-out with their 26.

Key players

Jude Bellingham’s match-winning brace against Norway took his World Cup goals tally to 6, matching his return from LaLiga last season. Harry Kane has as many himself, meaning the duo have scored all but one of England’s 13 goals at this World Cup. Keeping Argentina quiet will be just as important for this game, though, so Elliot Anderson will have to put together his best defensive performance in midfield.

Messi’s scoring streak came to an end against Switzerland, but he did get an assist to extend his men’s World Cup record tally to 10. His club teammate Rodrigo De Paul will have a big job to do in the midfield battle, while Emiliano Martínez’s penalty-saving chops might be required if the game goes all the way.

Prediction

A close contest is to be expected, with extra time very much on the cards. Ultimately, England might just have enough to edge past Argentina thanks to their superior depth.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Marc Cucurella has quietly been one of Spain’s most important players at the World Cup

Fresh from a surprise transfer to Real Madrid, Marc Cucurella is shining for Spain at the 2026 World Cup.

By Graham Ruthven

You can’t miss Marc Cucurella. It’s the Sideshow Bob hair. Not only this, though, the 27-year-old has been one of Spain’s best, and most important, players at the 2026 World Cup, giving the European champions a much-needed dimension that they otherwise would have lacked.

Two years ago at Euro 2024, Spain had Lamine Yamal on one side and Nico Williams on the other. Between the pair, Spain had two direct threats. They stretched the pitch and provided a funnel into the final third, giving Luis de la Fuente the sort of attacking thrust Spain had desperately missed in the Luis Enrique era.

Both Williams and Yamal are in Spain’s World Cup squad. The former, however, is struggling for form and fitness after a disappointing season at club level and the latter is still recovering from a hamstring injury that ruled him out of the final two months of Barcelona’s title-winning campaign.

To compensate for the general absence of Williams on the left side, de la Fuente has emboldened Cucurella to get forward. He has been a key part of Spain’s attacking approach at the 2026 World Cup, knifing through opposition backlines with his bold and frequent runs to the byline.

Cucurella’s role on the left wing is very different to the one Williams had at Euro 2024. While Williams was harnessed for his dribbling ability, it’s Cucurella’s runs that make him dangerous. Most commonly, Spain will look for the 27-year-old with a quick switch or a ball to the back post where Cucurella can crash the box. He’s a chaos merchant.

*Cucurella’s passing numbers at the World Cup*

No Spain player has created more Big Chances at the 2026 World Cup than Cucurella who has contributed two assists. While Spain have been criticised for a lack of overall creativity at the tournament, Cucurella has certainly done his job. The European champions have relied on him for attacking invention.

Tuesday’s semi-final against France will be Spain’s biggest test so far. Kylian Mbappé and co. have caught the imagination by producing a series of exhilarating attacking performances that have prompted many to predict red, white and blue ticker tape will fall from the sky when the World Cup trophy is lifted on July 19th.

Until now, Cucurella has largely been focused on driving Spain forward. Against France, though, a greater focus will be placed on his defensive performance such is the strength of the forward line he’ll be up against. Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, both of whom shade to the right wing, will test Cucurella.

Spain have had the better of France in their most recent meetings. Indeed, de la Fuente’s side edged a nine-goal thriller against Les Bleus in the Nations League after Spain had swept past the same opponents in the Euro 2024 semi-finals on their way to becoming European champions.

*Cucurella’s defensive numbers at the World Cup*

“We are the only ones to have beaten them twice in a row, but this third match will be very different,” de la Fuente said after the victory over Belgium which set up Tuesday’s encounter against France in Dallas. “These are two very high-level teams who are going to face each other.”

Against France, Spain will likely control the majority of possession. While de la Fuente’s approach has evolved Spain’s approach beyond the tedium of the Enrique era, injecting some much-needed directness, their playing style is still very much built on the idea of keeping the ball.

This is largely why Spain boast the best defensive record of any team still left in the 2026 World Cup. The goal they conceded against Belgium in the quarter-finals was their first of the entire tournament having kept clean sheets against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay, Austria and Portugal. If you have the ball, the opposition can’t score.

France, however, will pose a greater threat in quick transition than any other team Spain have faced at the 2026 World Cup so far. Didier Deschamps could revert to his default mindset to set up his team to play with a deep line of confrontation, both to make life difficult for Spain’s attack, but also to open up space for the counter-attack.

Pau Cubarsí boasts recovery speed to cover a lot of ground while Unai Simón is always quick off his line. Cucurella, however, will have to be as alert as anyone and could find it tougher to get forward to support Spain’s attack if France’s fearsome attack pins him back inside his own half.

Spain boast their own collection of superstars. Rodri is a Ballon d’Or winner. Pedri is the new Andrés Iniesta. Yamal might be the new Messi. Cucurella, however, deserves to be highlighted alongside such esteemed company as a player who could make the difference for them in a World Cup semi-final.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the World Cup on FotMob – with in-depth stat coverage, including xG, shot maps, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

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Jul

2026

Preview: France meet Spain in European classic to decide first World Cup finalist

Can France end Spain’s incredible 36-match unbeaten run (W27 D9) or will Luis de la Fuente continue to be a thorn in Didier Deschamps’ side?

By Filip Mishov

Deschamps targeting revenge over de la Fuente

Les Bleus secured their semi-final place in impressive fashion by defeating the AFCON 2026 runners-up, Morocco, equalling a record helf by Brazil and Germany of reaching the final four at three consecutive World Cup semi-finals. Didier Deschamps‘ squad are averaging 2.7 goals per match with just Argentina boasting a higher number (2.8), while Mike Maignan & co. are the only national team yet to concede a goal in the knockout stages, with France leading the ranks in terms of FotMob rating (7.56) – ahead of Spain (7.30).

Mikel Merino continues to drive La Roja’s bid for glory after the goalscoring midfielder found the back of the net from the bench against both Portugal and Belgium, respectively, becoming the first-ever substitute to score winning goals in two different World Cup knockout rounds. Spain are in the final four for just the second time in their history after winning the 2010 World Cup, and the reigning European champions are undefeated against their neighbours under Luis de la Fuente. The Spanish mastermind has oversaw consecutive semi-final wins at EURO 2024 and most recently in the Nations League 2024/2025.

Key players

Kylian Mbappé has been unplayable at the World Cup and both the eye test and the stats confirm the France captain’s form, with the 27-year-old scoring eight goals (joint most with Lionel Messi) and notching three assists in six matches, taking his goal tally to incredible 20 goals in as many World Cup appearances. No player is averaging a higher FotMob rating (8.87) and shots on target per 90 (3.3) than the free-firing forward, and if Unai Simón is to extend his clean-sheet record (5), then it comes down to stopping France’s all-time leading goalscorer.

Lamine Yamal is yet to fully announce himself in North America, as the now 19-year-old is on a four-match goalscoring drought since Spain’s victory against Saudi Arabia in the group phase. Despite averaging a FotMob rating of 7.45 and being La Roja’s main goalscoring threat with 5.1 shots per 90, the Barcelona star is yet to hit the heights of Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi’s performances. However, Tuesday’s clash might be his ultimate opportunity to shine and the wonderkid has history with France, scoring three goals in his previous two games against Les Bleus.

Team news

Aurélien Tchouaméni is back in first-team training after missing the Round of 16 and quarter-final matches through injury and the energetic midfielder is expected to return to the starting line-up with Kouadio Koné heading back to the bench.

Álex Baena was Spain’s starting left winger in place of Nico Williams, but with the Athletic Club forward close to full fitness and Ferran Torres also pushing for minutes, it remains to be seen whether the former will keep his place after being replaced early in the quarter-finals.

Prediction

France are undoubtedly narrow favourites despite Didier Deschamps insisting that Spain were the most likely winners pre-tournament, and given their performances and squad depth, I expect a European classic with France celebrating a victory after a goal-filled evening in Texas.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Preview: Defending champions Argentina face a Swiss side setting their sights on a first-ever semi-final

The last quarter-final at the 2026 World Cup will see Argentina continue their title defence against Switzerland, who will hope to extend their best-ever campaign at the tournament.

By Neel Shelat

Argentina hoping to avoid a third-consecutive scare

As the defending champions and world’s top-ranked team coming into the tournament, Argentina were naturally seen as one of the World Cup favourites. They got through a straightforward group with three wins and just one goal conceded, but have endured a rocky ride thereafter.

Their first knockout game against debutantes Cabo Verde was expected to be a one-sided affair, but turned into a match for the ages as the minnows equalised twice and fought hard until the very last minute of extra time. On its own, that might have been written off as an off-day, but the even more dramatic comeback win over Egypt further exposed the team’s weaknesses.

Lionel Messi’s continued magic has been just about enough to take the team forward thus far, but his absolute centrality to all their attacking plans has somewhat limited their threat — especially in the absence of an Ángel Di María-like profile on the wings. Moreover, their defence has conceded five goals in the last three games and looks breachable through different avenues.

Solidity the key to Switzerland’s success

Switzerland have reached the World Cup quarter-finals on three previous occasions, but the last of those was when they hosted the tournament in 1954. They have already created history at this World Cup by winning more than two games for the first time, and have good reason to believe they can go further.

The Nati have repeatedly delivered on the big stage over the last decade, reaching the Round of 16 of the last two World Cups as well as the quarter-finals at the last two Euros. Since taking over in 2021, Murat Yakin has consistently put together cohesive teams for the big occasions, ably dealing with a generational shift in the process.

The current Swiss side might like the attacking X factor of someone like Xherdan Shaqiri, but has some reliable presences in midfield and defence as well as a few potential difference-makers up front. Their ability to keep games tight has been the key to their success so far, and will certainly be important here.

Team news

Michel Aebischer and Luca Jaquez are doubts for Switzerland, but the big news is that breakout star Johan Manzambi will miss out again as he continues to recover from the knee injury that he picked up in training before the Round of 16. Argentina, on the other hand, are fully fit.

Key players

All-time World Cup top-scorer Lionel Messi will be looking to extend his scoring streak to seven consecutive knockout games in the tournament, with Julián Alvarez potentially providing some useful support. Lisandro Martínez will have a key role to play in and out of possession with his passing and defending.

Captain Granit Xhaka will be the key tempo-setter for Switzerland, but his defensive responsibilities might be all the more important in helping shield Manuel Akanji from a certain Lionel. Going forward, Dan Ndoye could hold the key to unlocking the Argentine defence.

Prediction

Argentina might just have enough to eke out another close victory.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Erling Haaland is lighting up the World Cup on & off the pitch – England must stop him to stop Norway

All eyes will be on Erling Haaland when Norway battle for a place in the World Cup final four.

By Jamie Spencer

To understand the international popularity of Norway and Erling Haaland at this World Cup you need look no further than retailers struggling to keep the team’s red home shirt with the striking blue Nordic cross in stock since it was first launched in March.

Ahead of the team’s first ever World Cup quarter-final (in men’s football), the jersey is sold out. In Norway, reports tell of fans queuing around the block at local sports stores in an effort to get hold of one during limited restocks. Online, Nike has none to serve a wider audience captivated by a nation competing on the global stage for the first time this century.

Norway’s football federation (NFF) admitted to the BBC it “severely underestimated” demand.

Norway arrived in North America this summer identified by many as a dark horse, remarkable considering the team had previously failed to qualify for 12 consecutive World Cup and European Championship tournaments since a group stage elimination at Euro 2000.

It would be unfair to suggest their qualification this time after so many failures – as recently as Euro 2024 qualifying, Norway were a distant third in a group behind Spain and Scotland – was a result of the World Cup’s expansion. More qualifying groups in 2026 meant more automatic places but Norway won all eight games, including home and away against Italy. Haaland scored 16 goals across those eight fixtures. The next top-scoring players in Europe got eight each.

Once the World Cup began, the team quickly made light work of Iraq and were more ruthless than a dangerous Senegal. A 4-1 defeat to France should be taken with a pinch of salt, with Norway resting 10 usual starters in the Group I dead rubber and the French still going pedal to the metal. Haaland scored braces in the successive wins and sat out the latter entirely.

Norway’s 2026 golden generation surpasses 1990s peak

Norway is experiencing a second golden generation, of which Haaland is front and centre. This team has already eclipsed the achievements of the first that went to two World Cups in 1994 and 1998, and was second in FIFA’s world rankings for almost two years between 1993 and 1995.

But that team, featuring the likes of Alf Inge Haaland, Jan Åge Fjørtoft, Lars Bohinen, Øyvind Leonhardsen, and later on Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Ronny Johnsen and Tore André Flo, won only one game each in 1994 and 1998. The latter at least resulted in a knockout berth, but Norway promptly lost to Italy in the round of 16. Already in 2026, Norway have won four out of five games and progressed through two knockout rounds to get into Saturday’s quarter-final against England. Ivory Coast were no pushovers, then it was Brazil – beating the Seleção was a statement.

Haaland scored both goals, winning hands down his individual duel with Gabriel Magalhães that had been a significant pre-match talking point given the rivalry that has grown from going head-to-head at club level in the Premier League. That took him to seven goals for the tournament, as many as Norway, as an entire nation, had scored across all three previous World Cups appearances.

*Haaland’s shot map at the 2026 World Cup*

As much as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé have dominated the headlines with their goalscoring feats, Haaland has been a major draw. Even though his status as one of the biggest names in the sport has been supercharged since joining Manchester City in 2023, his personality also seems to be coming out a lot more at this tournament, when players are typically more accessible to media. He is equally active on social media and has jokingly called out England legend Wayne Rooney – “Wayney boy” – who vowed to row the River Mersey if Norway made the last eight, to make good.

Haaland triumphantly led Norway’s post-match ‘row’ celebration after defeating Brazil, banging the drum for each stroke, and generally appears to be loving life. It probably makes him play better, rather than be consumed by the pressure of living up to his billing.

Erling Haaland vs Harry Kane

With the hype before the quarter-final focused on Haaland vs. Harry Kane – a viral AI-created video circulating in the build-up depicts one leading a Viking invasion of a kingdom being defended by the other – mentality makes him extra dangerous. This is not someone who will shrink in the spotlight.

But he’s respectful too and not deliberately contentious, notably calling Kane “one of the best” this week. There is a feeling it will be one of them that decides this all-or-nothing tie

The raw numbers show what a monster Haaland is. Over the last eight seasons, stretching back to his breakout at Red Bull Salzburg, the striker has scored 277 club goals. He made his senior Norway debut in September 2019 and has netted more than a goal per game since – it’s 62 in 54 caps.

Haaland became Norway’s all-time top scorer in 2024, three months after turning 24, a record that had stood for 87 years. He is already only four shy of doubling the old mark (33). Due to turn 26 two days after the World Cup final, it’s unfathomable where he could take that ceiling, but eventually challenging Cristiano Ronaldo’s world record of 146 cannot be counted out.

Stopping Haaland for England will not be a case of a centre-back going head-to-head against him in a battle of brute strength. Even if Thomas Tuchel had that kind of defender available, Gabriel’s plight across multiple encounters in different settings in recent months suggests it’s not the way to go.

Haaland doesn’t generally involve himself in build-up play anyway, touching the ball 30 times or less in each appearance so far at this World Cup. He comes alive in the key moments and is ruthlessly efficient. England must instead target the supply chain – Norway’s midfielders, wingers and full-backs – cutting Haaland off at source. If England keep him off the scoresheet, there is a much better chance for them. But if Haaland and his support cast can outfox the Three Lions, the semi-finals are calling.

(Images from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Preview: Norway and England clash in World Cup quarter-finals

Norway and England meet in Miami on Saturday with a place in the World Cup semi-finals at stake.

By Ian King

Both England and Norway put in superb performances to get this far

England’s 2026 World Cup took a turn in the last 16 with a tumultuous 3-2 at the Azteca against co-hosts Mexico. Two Jude Bellingham goals and a Harry Kane penalty were enough to see them through a game which felt more like a siege for its final half-hour following the sending off of Jarell Quansah.

Norway, meanwhile, continue to impress. They continued their psychological hold over Brazil with a 2-1 win in the last 16, and a performance that was far more dominant than the final score might suggest with another two goals for Erling Haaland, who seems to already be in the process of becoming the breakout global superstar of this tournament.

Both teams, then, have built up a degree of momentum following slightly underwhelming ends to the group stage, with England looking more workmanlike than anything else against both Ghana and Panama, and Norway’s second-string getting beaten 4-1 by France in their final match, although this came with their qualification for the knockout stage already confirmed.

The first time England travelled to Oslo for a competitive match, they took “a hell of a beating”

Somewhat worryingly for England their record against Norway in competitive matches is, to say the least, patchy. They were drawn together in qualification for the 1982 World Cup and England won their first meeting 4-0, but they lost the return match in Oslo in September 1981 – the match in which Maggie Thatcher’s “boys took a hell of a beating”, as the Norwegian radio commentator Bjorge Lillelien famously put it – and almost failed to qualify for what would have been the third time in a row.

Things were even worse for England in qualification for the 1994 World Cup finals, with a 1-1 draw at Wembley and a 2-0 defeat in Oslo in the return match. The group ended with Norway and the Netherlands qualifying and England out, and manager Graham Taylor losing his job. Since then, the two sides have played each other four times, with two 1-0 England wins and two goalless draws.

England could need a big performance from their goalkeeper against a rampant Erling Haaland

One of the more curious performances in the England team of this tournament has been that of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, who looked out of sorts in the run-up to the tournament but put in an excellent performance in Mexico City in the last round. With there being little to choose between these two teams, there remains every possibility that Thomas Tuchel could be depending on him in a penalty shootout at the end of this match.

All the attention on Norway has, of course, been focused on the boy Haaland, but it’s also worth keeping an eye on another wunderkind of theirs, Antonio Nusa of RB Leipzig. Nusa was hauled off at half-time against Brazil, but the 21-year-old winger is extremely highly-rated, and he’s the only other player beyond Haaland to have scored for them in the knockout stages of the competition.

Right-back has rapidly become a poisoned chalice of a position for England

The right-back spot has become England’s biggest question mark throughout this tournament. Jarell Quansah was surprisingly – or not, given the extent to which FIFA seem to be making this sort of thing up as they go along – suspended for two matches for his red card against Mexico. Reece James faces a battle to be fit in time, with Djed Spence on standby if he doesn’t make it.

We can probably expect Anthony Gordon and Bukayo Saka to start again on the wings, but there could be further defensive reshuffles, with Dan Burn in possible contention following an impressive cameo in the closing stages of the Mexico match as England sought to batten down their hatches. Jordan Henderson is now out for the tournament, having achieved the sensational double-whammy of both picking up a yellow card and injuring himself despite not actually playing a single minute of the Mexico match.

Norway have no injury or suspension issues going into this meeting. David Møller Wolfe, the onomatopoeically-named Wolves right-back, was withdrawn against Brazil but is expected to be fit again. Otherwise, head coach Ståle Solbakken’s biggest headache is the best sort of managerial headache; he has too many players in decent form for the positions he needs to fill. Oscar Bobb and Andreas Schjelderup both impressed after coming on against Brazil and could replace Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa.

There is one extremely large obstacle to England’s progression to the semi-finals

Their last four friendly meetings may have only produced two goals, but there is a promise of entertainment from this fixture. England and Norway have played ten games between them in this summer’s finals, yet they’ve only managed two clean sheets combined, both of them by England against relatively modest opposition – Ghana and Panama – in the group stages.

Both teams have incredible attacking options. Both Harry Kane and Erling Haaland are well in their stride, with six and seven goals already scored respectively, while there have also been excellent performances from their support. And both teams – England with their right-back quandary and Norway with their lack of clean sheets – have defences which can be got at.

The upshot of all this is that there really is so little to choose between these two teams that it’s not difficult to imagine this match ending in a reasonably high-scoring draw and a penalty shootout. At the time of writing (before Spain and Belgium play), there have only been four of them from 25 knockout matches. By way of comparison, there had been five by this stage in 2022, when they didn’t even have a round of 32. For these two teams, it seems likely that it’ll be a long, tense afternoon in Miami.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

How will Real Madrid fit Denzel Dumfries and Trent Alexander-Arnold into the same team?

Denzel Dumfries’ move to Real Madrid raises fresh questions about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s role at the Santiago Bernabéu.

By Graham Ruthven

By the start of next season, Real Madrid will be a José Mourinho team. That’s the plan, anyway. The Spanish giants have already made a number of signings clearly with the Portuguese’s playing style and general approach in mind. Denzel Dumfries is one such signing.

Signed for a reported €20m from Inter Milan, Dumfries will give Real Madrid greater thrust on the wing. Mourinho’s best teams have always had proactive, front foot full backs and the Netherlands international certainly fits the bill. Real Madrid, however, already have an elite-level right back. One they signed only 12 months ago.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is a very different sort of right back to Dumfries. While Dumfries’ game is all about direct running and bursting to the byline, Alexander-Arnold is a natural creator on the ball. He is a cultured crosser and someone who can dictate possession from his position on the right side. Alexander-Arnold is a natural possession hub.

*Dumfries vs. Alexander-Arnold stats comparison (Serie A vs. LaLiga only)*

If Mourinho wants Dumfries as his starting player on the right wing, where does that leave Alexander-Arnold? How will the Englishman fit into the lineup if Real Madrid’s latest addition is the favoured option at right back? Does Dumfries’ transfer signal that Alexander-Arnold will be a peripheral figure for Los Blancos next season?

Alexander-Arnold’s first season in Spain was a challenging one. The 27-year-old started just 14 league matches as injuries disrupted his campaign, registering four assists in 1,163 minutes. There were glimpses of Alexander-Arnold’s ability, but he failed to find consistent form for his new team.

There were also glimpses of Alexander-Arnold’s weaknesses. His defensive vulnerabilities have been a talking point for a long time and were frequently exposed in a Real Madrid team that lacked balance last season. Mourinho will be aware of those frailties and one wonders if Dumfries’ signing hints at Alexander-Arnold being used in a different role.

Xabi Alonso experimented with Alexander-Arnold in central midfield. The 27-year-old’s natural ability on the ball lends itself to the idea that he could be useful in the middle of the pitch where he can control possession. Sir Gareth Southgate also experimented with Alexander-Arnold in a similar way as England manager, albeit with scant success.

Mourinho could revisit this idea. Real Madrid need a new midfield pace-setter and have needed one since the retirement of Toni Kroos two years ago. It’s possible they could move for a player of this profile before the summer transfer window closes. In the meantime, Alexander-Arnold might be a useful stopgap.

A stopgap because Alexander-Arnold doesn’t have the natural rhythm of a true deep-lying pace-setter. He has the passing range to play in that position, but he doesn’t possess the nimble possession play of someone like Pedri or Vitinha. This is where Alexander-Arnold still has to develop his game as a central midfielder.

It’s possible Mourinho could use Dumfries as an out-and-out winger with Alexander-Arnold behind the Dutchman as a right back with the freedom to invert into the centre of the pitch. Another tactical ploy could see Alexander-Arnold play as a right-sided centre back in a back three with Dumfries as a wing back. That is, after all, where the Dutchman thrived for Inter.

What’s clear, though, is that Alexander-Arnold has some work ahead of him to convince Mourinho that he belongs in the first team otherwise he will find himself on the outside. Thomas Tuchel made the decision to omit the 27-year-old from his England squad for the 2026 World Cup and the Three Lions are doing just fine. The precedent has already been set.

For this reason, the 2026/27 season could be the most important of Alexander-Arnold’s career. At Liverpool, he played in a side that was geared to his strengths. Jürgen Klopp built the Reds around Alexander-Arnold who was their primary creative force down the right side. At Real Madrid, he is having to prove himself all over again.

Mourinho has been hired to mould Los Blancos in his own image. Real Madrid are expected to be tougher next season. If Mourinho has his way, they will be more compact and more difficult to play against. Alexander-Arnold’s playing style doesn’t exactly seem to be a good fit for this approach.

Alexander-Arnold’s talent could keep him in Real Madrid’s first team. However, the landscape has clearly shifted since he made the decision to join the Spanish giants a year ago. Back then, Alonso was preparing to modernise Real Madrid’s playing style. Now, Mourinho is in charge and everything has changed.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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Jul

2026

Preview: Spain clash with Belgium in LA quarterfinal

Spain meet fellow Europeans Belgium in the quarter-finals of the World Cup after contrasting victories in the Round of 16.

By Ross Kilvington

The Spanish took their time to find a winner against Portugal, but Mikel Merino sent La Roja through with a 91^st minute goal. Belgium, on the other hand, thrashed the USA 4-1 in what was their finest performance of the tournament thus far.

Spain might be saving their best for Belgium

Throughout their Euro 2024 run, Spain scored 15 goals, defeating the likes of Croatia, Italy, Germany, France and then England to win their fourth continental title.

This summer, expectations are higher than ever, but Spain haven’t quite been at their best.

Of course, they did defeat Saudi Arabia 4-0 and Austria 3-0, but Luis de la Fuente’s men have scored just twice across their other three matches.

Solid, if unspectacular, is perhaps the best way to describe Spain, but things could change against the Belgians.

World Cup winners tend to peak the further the tournament goes on, see Argentina in 2022 and Spain themselves in 2010.

Having won their first World Cup knockout match since that final in 2010, the Spanish will be looking to reach the quarter-finals of a World Cup for just the third time this century.

Spain have won six successive games against the Belgians and they will be desperate to make it seven in California on Friday evening.

Belgium could cause plenty of problems

Belgium delivered a sparkling display to beat USA 4-1, a victory which was inspired by the perceived injustice of Folarin Balogun’s suspension being lifted by FIFA, seemingly under influence from the US government.

That was all the incentive Belgium needed as the Red Devils sent the co-hosts crashing out.

It was comfortably their best performance of the tournament and this should stand Rudi Garcia’s side in good stead ahead of this tricky clash against Spain.

Not at their best during the group stages, Belgium have since scored seven goals in two knockout stage fixtures. Perform like they did against the USA and Spain could be in for a tough evening.

Team news

De la Fuente has no fresh injury concerns and could start with the same starting XI that faced Portugal.

Garcia, however, will need to replace Amadou Onana in the lineup. The midfielder was subbed off after 21 minutes against the USA due to suffering a cruciate ligament injury.

Hans Vanaken should be the man that comes into the starting XI.

Prediction

A few weeks ago, the outcome of this match would have been a lot easier to predict. The comeback victory over Senegal, combined with thrashing the USA has given Belgium a new lease of life.

The Spaniards will be tested throughout and their defence will be breached for the first time this tournament, however, I expect De la Fuente’s men to win 3-1.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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