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Football Daily | Chelsea’s financial shrug and Liverpool leaking players – what you may have missed
Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now!After the eye-watering excess of the Geopolitics World Cup, we can return to the modest, measured land of the domestic game. While our attention has been elsewhere, Manchester City have splashed £116m on Elliot Anderson. Chelsea, not to be outshone, have splurged £117m on Morgan Rogers. Even Tottenham have parted with £230m to revamp their mildly traumatised squad. Manchester United, who went down to Wrexham in their first pre-season friendly in Helsinki, have kept things modest, buying Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans for the same £85m Spurs have thrown in the direction of relegation’s West Ham for Mateus Fernandes.I was pleased with a lot of things that I saw in the game. We could do better. We could have taken more responsibility to have the ball instead of just watching and reacting … efficiency is very important at this level. When you don’t kill, you get killed” – new Hearts boss Wouter Vrancken chooses to focus on the positives after the, erm, 4-0 tonking by Sturm Graz in the first leg of their Bigger Cup qualifier.How’s your World Cup hangover? I must have been bored because I couldn’t help but notice that Tuesday was a rough day for British, Irish and British Overseas Territory club teams in Bigger Cup. Not only were Hearts, Larne, Shamrock Rovers and Lincoln Red Imps all beaten in their second qualifying round first legs, they didn’t manage a single goal among them! Rovers’ Cape Verdean Pico Lopes went from taking Argentina to extra time in Miami just a few weeks ago, to getting blanked by Ararat in Armenia. Larne were were given no home comforts on the coast of Northern Ireland by Red Star Belgrade, who brought on Marko Arnautovic, the Austria veteran who retired from his national side after exiting the GWC at the hands of Spain. Football just rolls on and on” – Peter Oh.Here we go again, another new face in the top job, you know the drill by now. Smiles, handshakes and social media soundbites. Claims of ‘understanding why people have been frustrated’, promises of ‘change’ and ‘progress’. Speculation about who’s being brought in to play a key role, and who’s out of favour. Sooner or later, the realisation there is no time or trust to make the difficult long-term changes everyone knows are necessary. Media pressure, infighting, the ‘need to act before it’s too late’. Out the door to be replaced by the next great hope, mainly distinguishable by having a different accent. All of which to say, good luck to Alessio Dionisi at Watford this season. Now to see what’s going on in UK politics …” – David Craddock.This is an extract from our daily football email … Football Daily. To get the full version, just visit this page and follow the instructions. Continue reading...
Why isn’t Nico Williams starting for Spain against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final?
Nico Williams has been left out from Spain's starting lineup for the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina. Nico Williams entered the 2026 World Cup as one of Spain‘s most highly anticipated talents and one of the most dangerous wingers in the world. However, for today’s championship clash against Argentina at MetLife Stadium, the Athletic Bilbao standout will have to wait for his opportunity from the substitutes’ bench. Williams will miss out on the starting eleven due to a calculated tactical decision by manager Luis de la Fuente. While the explosive winger has fully recovered from his recent injury, the Spanish boss has opted to stick with the core lineup that successfully navigated the knockout rounds to reach the final. Instead, De la Fuente has handed the starting nod to Alex Baena on the left flank. This tactical setup leaves Spain with Lamine Yamal patrolling the right wing and Mikel Oyarzabal leading the line at center forward, maintaining the exact attacking trio that started the previous matches, including the semifinal victory over France. A World Cup filled with obstacles for Williams Throughout Spain’s recent competitive cycles, including their title runs in Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League, Williams has been indispensable as a dynamic threat down the left flank. His partnership with Lamine Yamal previously gave La Roja one of the most exciting young wing duos in international soccer, but with both stars entering this World Cup carrying injuries, the Spanish attack occasionally looked static and predictable. Nico Williams #17 of Spain is fouled by Nicolas de la Cruz #7 of Uruguay. After being managed carefully as a second-half substitute in Spain’s opening three group matches, Williams suffered a heavy knock against Uruguay that aggravated his underlying muscular issue. The setback proved costly, forcing him to watch from the sidelines as an unused substitute during the knockout victories over Austria and Portugal. While he finally made his return to action with brief cameos off the bench against Belgium and France, he has struggled to find his usual rhythm or impact the scoresheet. In total, the winger has appeared in five matches during this World Cup campaign but has logged just 76 minutes on the pitch, a frustrating reality far below what was expected of him before the tournament kicked off.
How France’s win, draw, or loss vs Spain could impact the 2026 World Cup bracket
The stakes couldn't be higher, and fans are buzzing to see exactly how this do-or-die result will define the ultimate road to the tournament's biggest prize. France and Spain are squaring off in an absolutely massive Semi-finals showdown at the 2026 World Cup. Didier Deschamps’ squad is gearing up to battle Luis de la Fuente’s reigning European champions in Arlington. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and fans are buzzing to see exactly how this do-or-die result will define the ultimate road to the tournament’s biggest prize. France enters the contest after an impressive run through the knockout rounds, while Spain has continued to showcase the possession-based soccer that has become its trademark. With stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue, Rodri, and Lamine Yamal expected to feature, the semifinal promises to be one of the standout matches of the competition. France arrives with confidence Les Bleus have looked like one of the tournament’s most complete teams. They topped their group before defeating Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco to reach the semifinal without conceding a goal in the knockout rounds. Didier Deschamps has built an attack capable of hurting opponents in several different ways. Mbappe leads the Golden Boot race with eight goals. At the same time, Dembele continues to justify his reputation after winning the Ballon d’Or, and Olise has emerged as one of the tournament’s leading creators. DateFrance’s OpponentStageResultJuly 9, 2026MoroccoQuarter-finalsWin (2-0)July 4, 2026ParaguayRound of 16Win (1-0)June 30, 2026SwedenRound of 32Win (3-0)June 26, 2026NorwayGroup StageWin (4-1)June 22, 2026IraqGroup StageWin (3-0)June 16, 2026SenegalGroup StageWin (3-1) The team has also become increasingly balanced as the tournament has progressed. Adrien Rabiot and Manu Kone have provided stability behind an explosive front four, allowing Deschamps to play with greater attacking freedom than in previous World Cups. Spain continues to trust its identity Spain has taken a different route to the semifinals. Luis de la Fuente’s side has relied on patience, possession and defensive discipline, conceding only once throughout the tournament. Rodri continues to dictate the tempo in midfield, while Lamine Yamal remains one of soccer’s brightest young stars despite not yet reaching his peak scoring form in North America. Mikel Merino has repeatedly delivered from the bench, scoring decisive late goals against both Portugal and Belgium. DateSpain’s OpponentStageResultJuly 10, 2026BelgiumQuarter-finalsWin (2-1)July 6, 2026PortugalRound of 16Win (1-0)July 2, 2026AustriaRound of 32Win (3-0)June 27, 2026UruguayGroup StageWin (1-0)June 21, 2026Saudi ArabiaGroup StageWin (4-0)June 15, 2026Cabo VerdeGroup StageTie (0-0) Spain’s confidence also comes from recent history against France. La Roja defeated Les Bleus in the Euro 2024 semifinal and again in the 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinal, giving them belief that another victory is possible. What happens if France wins and Spain loses? A French victory would send Les Bleus into another World Cup final, where they would meet the winner of the Argentina vs England semifinal. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France celebrates with Dayot Upamecano #4 and Michael Olise #11. Spain would then be eliminated from title contention and move into the Third-Place Match. A place in the final would also continue France’s remarkable consistency at the highest level, adding another chapter to one of international soccer’s strongest modern eras. What happens if France and Spain are level after 90 minutes? Although the match could finish level after regulation, the semifinal itself cannot end in a draw. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France converts the penalty to score Instead, the teams would play 30 minutes of extra time, and if neither side finds a winner, the contest would be settled by a penalty shootout. Only after those stages would the World Cup bracket be completed, with one team advancing to th
Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal’s head-to-head record reveals clear trend before 2026 World Cup Semi-Finals France vs Spain clash
Instead of just sharing the spotlight, the two superstars bring an unbelievable head-to-head record into this matchup that simply cannot be ignored. The 2026 World Cup has delivered an absolute dream semi-final at AT&T Stadium, where France and Spain will battle for a ticket to the final. At the heart of this heavyweight clash is the spectacular rivalry between Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. Instead of just sharing the spotlight, the two superstars bring an unbelievable head-to-head record into this matchup that simply cannot be ignored. France enters the match hoping to reach a third consecutive World Cup final, while Spain looks to continue its rise after winning Euro 2024 and establish itself among soccer’s modern dynasties. At club level, Real Madrid and Barcelona have already witnessed plenty of battles between the two stars, but this meeting carries greater stakes than anything they have faced before. Mbappe remains France’s driving force France has enjoyed another impressive tournament under Didier Deschamps, who is leading the national team for the final time after 14 years in charge. Les Bleus have powered through the knockout rounds with victories over Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco, building momentum without appearing stretched to their limits. The attack has been the tournament’s biggest weapon. Mbappe has scored eight goals, sharing the lead in the Golden Boot race, while Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, and the rest of the supporting cast have given France one of the most dangerous forward lines in the competition. Kylian Mbappe #10 of France However, a few players have enjoyed a World Cup career like Mbappe. The Real Madrid star already owns a World Cup winner’s medal from 2018, produced a memorable hat-trick in the 2022 final, and has become France’s all-time leading scorer. Tournament StatKylian MbappeLamine YamalMatches Played66Goals81Expected Goals (xG)5.391.51Shots per Game5.0 (3.2 on target)3.8 (1.7 on target)Accurate Passes per Game26.8 (87%)26.0 (83%)Top Speed35.3 km/h35.5 km/hAverage Sofascore Rating8.287.25 Yamal continues to grow into soccer’s next superstar Spain has reached the last four by combining defensive discipline with trademark possession soccer. The national team has conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, while producing knockout victories over Austria, Portugal and Belgium. Although Yamal has not matched Mbappe’s scoring numbers during this World Cup, the teenager remains Spain’s most exciting attacking talent. After overcoming a hamstring injury before the tournament, the Barcelona winger has gradually rediscovered his rhythm. Lamine Yamal of Spain The head-to-head record adds another layer to the rivalry While the semi-final is about two elite national teams, the individual duel between Mbappe and Yamal has developed into one of soccer’s most fascinating rivalries. Yamal has won eight of his previous 10 meetings with Mbappe for club and country, giving the Barcelona winger an 80 percent success rate against the France captain. Those victories include Euro 2024, the 2025 UEFA Nations League semi-final, multiple El Clasicos, the Copa del Rey final, and the Spanish Super Cup. Season / TournamentMatchResult (Winner)Mbappe ContributionsYamal Contributions2023–24 Champions League (QF)PSG vs Barcelona2-3 (Yamal)––2023–24 Champions League (QF)Barcelona vs PSG1-4 (Mbappe)2 Goals1 AssistEuro 2024 (Semi-final)Spain vs France2-1 (Yamal)1 Assist1 Goal2024–25 La LigaReal Madrid vs Barcelona0-4 (Yamal)–1 Goal2025 Supercopa de España (Final)Real Madrid vs Barcelona2-5 (Yamal)1 Goal2 Goals2024–25 Copa del Rey (Final)Barcelona vs Real Madrid3-2 (Yamal)1 Goal2 Assists2024–25 La LigaBarcelona vs Real Madrid4-3 (Yamal)3 Goals1 Goal2025 Nations League (Semi-final)Spain vs France5-4 (Yamal)1 Goal2 Goals2025–26 La LigaReal Madrid vs Barcelona2-1 (Mbappe)1 Goal–2026 Supercopa de España (Final)FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid3-2 (Yamal)–– Mbappe has enjoyed memorable individual performances during those encou
France vs Spain poll: Vote for the better player in every head-to-head matchup ahead of the 2026 World Cup semifinal
France and Spain will be clashing in the 2026 World Cup semifinals, with stars in every single line of the pitch. France and Spain have been drawn to clash in the 2026 World Cup semifinals, with only one nation advancing to the final at MetLife Stadium. The game is set for Tuesday, July 15th, at Dallas Stadium, and both sides boast star power at every position. Kylian Mbappe is chasing history once again, looking to reach his third consecutive World Cup final with his goal tally sitting at 20, just one behind Lionel Messi’s all-time record of 21. A commanding 2-0 win over Morocco sent Les Bleus through in what has been a near-flawless tournament run under Didier Deschamps. On the other side, Lamine Yamal will be turning 19 ahead of the match, looking to cap a historic first World Cup. Spain arrive having claimed Euro 2024, though they fell short in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final, and will be hunting a second World Cup star to add to their 2010 triumph in South Africa. The semifinal sets up compelling head-to-head battles across every position on the field. GK: Mike Maignan vs Unai Simon Mike Maignan (L) and Unai Simon (R). (Justin Setterfield & Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) Mike Maignan has established himself as Hugo Lloris’s successor between the posts for France, and while he has not been tested frequently, he has responded with crucial saves when called upon. Unai Simon, meanwhile, has set a remarkable record, going 649 minutes without conceding in this World Cup, surpassing Italy’s Walter Zenga as the goalkeeper with the most consecutive minutes without a goal allowed in the competition’s history. RB: Jules Kounde vs Pedro Porro Jules Kounde (L) and Pedro Porro (R). (Al Bello & Luke Hales/Getty Images) Jules Kounde has retained his place as France’s starting right back since the 2022 World Cup, taking on a more disciplined defensive role with the national team than he typically plays at Barcelona. Pedro Porro, meanwhile, has been one of Spain‘s most dynamic contributors going forward, capping his tournament with his first international goal in the group stage win over Austria. RCB: Dayot Upamecano vs Pau Cubarsi Dayot Upamecano (L) and Pau Cubarsi (R). (Dan Mullan & David Ramos/Getty Images) Dayot Upamecano has been a cornerstone of France’s defense since the 2022 World Cup, combining physical dominance with composure on the ball. Pau Cubarsi, despite his youth, has been one of the most technically gifted center backs in the tournament, ranking among the leaders in key passes per game from the heart of Spain’s backline. LCB: William Saliba vs Aymeric Laporte William Saliba and Aymeric Laporte. (Justin Setterfield & Carl Recine/Getty Images) William Saliba barely featured at the 2022 World Cup, but with Raphaël Varane retired, the Arsenal defender has stepped into the role of one of the world’s best, having also reached the UEFA Champions League final during the 2025-26 club season. Aymeric Laporte made his way back into the Spain squad after missing the Nations League Final Four and has formed a commanding partnership with Cubarsí at the back. LB: Lucas Digne vs Marc Cucurella Lucas Digne (L) and Marc Cucurella (R). (Justin Setterfield & Carl Recine/Getty Images) Lucas Digne began the tournament as a backup behind Théo Hernández, but his technical quality and clinical left foot have earned him the starting spot under Deschamps, a role he also impressed in while helping Aston Villa win the Europa League. Marc Cucurella, on the other hand, is firmly established as one of the best left backs in the world, having recently completed a high-profile move to Real Madrid from Chelsea. CDM: Manu Kone vs Rodri Manu Kone (L) and Rodri (R). (Mattia Ozbot & David Ramos/Getty Images) Manu Kone stepped into a more defensive midfield role with France amid Aurelien Tchouaméni’s fitness struggles and has responded with composure and character despite not being a first-choice starter coming into the tournament. Rodri, by contrast, is w
Portugal vs Spain: Date, kickoff time and venue for 2026 World Cup Round of 16 clash
With Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal and Lamine Yamal's Spain to meet each other in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, the date, venue, and kickoff time have already been set. Portugal and Spain both advanced through the Round of 32 on Thursday, booking their spots in the next round and setting up a blockbuster Round of 16 showdown in the 2026 World Cup. The date, kickoff time, and venue for the Iberian derby have already been confirmed. Spain opened Thursday’s action against Austria in another all-European matchup, controlling the game from start to finish. Mikel Oyarzabal broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, Pedro Porro netted his first international goal in the 66th, and Oyarzabal added a second in the 89th to complete a commanding 3-0 victory. Portugal followed with a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Croatia, with Cristiano Ronaldo playing a central role by equalizing from the penalty spot. Goncalo Ramos then headed in the winner, and despite a stoppage-time Croatia goal being ruled out, the Selecao held on to advance. When and where will Portugal and Spain clash in the Round of 16? Portugal and Spain will meet next Monday, July 6, at 3:00 PM ET, in what figures to be one of the most compelling matches of the entire tournament. Both sides are considered legitimate contenders for the title, though one of them will be heading home before the quarterfinals. Goncalo Ramos #9 of Portugal celebrating. The two nations met in the UEFA Nations League final in 2025, with Portugal claiming the trophy. This rematch comes on a much bigger stage, evoking memories of their iconic 3-3 group-stage draw at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Which stadium will host Portugal vs Spain? The venue for the match is AT&T Stadium in Dallas, which FIFA has officially designated as Dallas Stadium throughout the tournament due to its strict naming rights policy. The facility has already hosted seven World Cup matches and will hold one more after this clash, a semifinal. Home of the Dallas Cowboys, the stadium is expected to welcome up to 70,649 fans for what shapes up as one of the most anticipated games of the tournament, a rematch of last year’s Nations League final, this time with a World Cup quarterfinal berth on the line.
How Portugal’s win, draw, or loss vs Spain could impact the 2026 World Cup bracket
Beyond simply surviving the tie, a victory here will completely scramble the road to the final, so here are the massive bracket implications riding on this clash. The 2026 World Cup knockout stage rolls into Dallas for an absolute thriller of a Round of 16 matchup: Portugal vs. Spain. With a coveted spot in the quarterfinals on the line, there are no second chances. Beyond simply surviving the tie, a victory here will completely scramble the road to the final, so here are the massive bracket implications riding on this clash. The Iberian rivals will renew one of international soccer’s oldest rivalries at AT&T Stadium in Texas. Portugal enters the match after edging Croatia 2-1 in the Round of 32, while Spain arrives following an impressive 3-0 victory over Austria, setting the stage for one of the tournament’s biggest knockout matches. The encounter brings together two nations that know each other extremely well. Their most recent meeting came in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final, where Portugal lifted the trophy after a 2-2 draw by winning on penalties, thanks to Diogo Costa’s save from Alvaro Morata and Ruben Neves converting the decisive spot kick. La Roja, however, enters the match as the slight favorite after enjoying a stronger World Cup campaign. Luis de la Fuente’s side remains unbeaten in the tournament and has yet to concede a goal, while the Selecao has had to overcome several difficult moments, including a dramatic late victory over Croatia. For Cristiano Ronaldo, the match could prove especially significant. At 41 years old, the Portugal captain is widely expected to be playing in his final World Cup, adding another layer of emotion to Monday’s showdown. Their road to the knockout stage as Ronaldo and Yamal headline clash Portugal finished second in Group J with five points, defeating Uzbekistan before drawing against DR Congo and Colombia. Roberto Martínez’s side then survived a major scare against Croatia, eventually progressing with a dramatic 2-1 victory after a controversial stoppage-time decision ruled out Croatia’s equalizer. Spain enjoyed a smoother route. The European champion topped Group H with seven points, defeating Saudi Arabia and Uruguay while drawing with Cape Verde before comfortably dispatching Austria in the Round of 32. DatePortugal’s OpponentStageResultJune 17, 2026DR CongoGroup StageDraw (1-1)June 23, 2026UzbekistanGroup StageWin (5-0)June 27, 2026ColombiaGroup StageDraw (0-0)July 2, 2026CroatiaRound of 32Win (2-1) The contrast in form has influenced many predictions ahead of the match, although knockout soccer has repeatedly shown that previous performances often matter little once elimination is on the line. One of the biggest storylines surrounding the match is the meeting between Cristiano Ronaldo and 18-year-old Lamine Yamal. Ronaldo continues to lead Portugal despite entering the final stage of his remarkable international career. Meanwhile, Yamal has quickly become one of Spain’s biggest stars after recovering from an early tournament injury scare. DateSpain’s OpponentStageResultJune 15, 2026Cabo VerdeGroup StageDraw (0-0)June 21, 2026Saudi ArabiaGroup StageWin (4-0)June 25, 2026UruguayGroup StageWin (1-0)July 2, 2026AustriaRound of 32Win (3-0) What happens if Portugal wins and Spain loses? If Portugal defeats Spain, whether in regulation time, extra time or a penalty shootout, Portugal will qualify for the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals. The next opponent would be the winner of the United States vs. Belgium Round of 16 tie, keeping Portugal alive in its pursuit of a historic first World Cup title. Cristiano Ronaldo #7 of Portugal celebrates after scoring against Croatia. Victory would also keep Cristiano Ronaldo’s dream alive, extending what could be the final tournament of his legendary international career. What happens if Portugal and Spain are level after 90 minutes? Although many supporters speak about the possibility of a draw, the Round of 16 cannot end in a draw. If Portugal a
What is Spain’s current FIFA ranking ahead of its 2026 World Cup match vs Portugal?
After producing an impressive goalscoring display against Austria, Spain arrive in the Round of 16 as one of the top contenders to face Portugal. Despite their excellent form throughout the 2026 World Cup, they have dropped places in the FIFA Men's World Ranking. Throughout the 2026 World Cup, Spain have shined one of the tournament’s top contenders, excelling as a collective unit. While Lamine Yamal has yet to shine in front of goal, he has played a key role in driving the team’s overall play. In addition, head coach Luis de la Fuente has built a highly solid midfield, helping Spain remain unbeaten. However, they have dropped places in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking just before facing Portugal. According to the FIFA Men’s World Ranking, Spain are ranked 3rd with 1892.28 points. Despite their solid performances, they have lost one position in the ranking. After several years without shinning in a tournament, head coach Luis de la Fuente has managed to recover their impact, winning a UEFA Nations League and a UEFA Euro. However, they have yet to match their highest-ever ranking, which was 1st in July of 2014. Despite losing one position in the rankings, Luis de la Fuente’s team remains above Portugal. Roberto Martínez’s team sit seventh in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with 1,787.85 points. While their performances have not been entirely convincing, they have a wealth of individual talent that could prove decisive, as Gonçalo Ramos did in the latest match against Croatia. For that reason, the game is expected to be highly competitive. Spain have established as one of the most dominant national teams. Led by Pedri and Rodri, they consistently control the midfield, while Dani Olmo has become a key figure in the attacking midfield role. In addition, Lamine Yamal, Álex Baena, and Marc Cucurella are essential out wide, stretching the pitch and delivering dangerous crosses. On top of that, Mikel Oyarzabal has been in outstanding goalscoring form, making him the team’s greatest attacking weapon. Mikel Oyarzabal #21 of Spain celebrates with Alex Baena #15 after scoring a goal. Spain’s path to beating Portugal may be possession dominance Head coach Luis de la Fuente has built a highly effective playing style for Spain. Rather than relying solely on their dominance through the middle, they also excel out wide. Thanks to their control of the midfield, they consistently find space on the flanks. As a result, they are able to stretch opposing defenses and create openings, something that could prove crucial in defeating Portugal in the Round of 16. If Spain manage to impose a high press and dominate possession, Portugal would be forced to sit deep inside their own penalty area. By limiting Cristiano Ronaldo’s team’s attacking threat, they would be able to maintain their advantage and look to take control of the scoreline. To do so, the creative support of Dani Olmo and Álex Baena is key, but Mikel Oyarzabal is the one who needs to deliver another great performance, being effective in front of goal.
World Cup Round of 32: Full schedule and scores
The Round of 32 is set at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And the first match of the knockout round is just a few hours away. Saturday’s final day of group play filled out the Round of 32, with a dramatic match between Algeria and Austria finishing level following a late goal for Austria. That […]