The Daily · Tuesday, 14 July 2026
Spain Reach World Cup Final as Mbappé Turns on Deschamps After France Collapse
Spain are through to the World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France in Arlington, Texas — a result that extended their remarkable record against their European rivals to three straight wins and ended France's bid to reach a third consecutive final. The manner of the defeat made the aftermath almost as significant as the scoreline itself. Kylian Mbappé, visibly frustrated, publicly questioned Didier Deschamps' tactics and described France's performance as sloppy — a striking intervention that pointed to a serious rupture within one of the world's most watched national sides.
England, meanwhile, prepare for Wednesday's semi-final against Argentina with the welcome confirmation that Declan Rice is fit to start. His availability steadies a midfield that would have looked considerably more exposed without him. Off the pitch, FIFA president Gianni Infantino faced a formal complaint to the IOC over alleged breaches of political neutrality linked to his dealings with Donald Trump — a governance story that has quietly gathered weight throughout this tournament.
The transfer market stirred too. Brighton completed a club-record signing of Luka Vuskovic from Spurs, Manchester United moved for Youri Tielemans, and Mason Greenwood edged closer to Fenerbahçe after Atlético Madrid walked away.
The record
Spain Beat France 2-0 to Reach World Cup Final
Spain defeated France 2-0 in their World Cup semifinal in Arlington, Texas, ending France's bid to reach a third consecutive World Cup final. It was Spain's third straight victory over their European rivals. Spain now advance to the World Cup final. France are eliminated from the 2026 World Cup at the semifinal stage, ending their hopes of a record third consecutive final appearance.
Mbappé Questions France Tactics After 2-0 World Cup Semi-Final Loss to Spain
France were beaten 2-0 by Spain in the FIFA World Cup semi-final, ending their campaign. Kylian Mbappé was critical afterwards, appearing to question Didier Deschamps' approach and tactics in a performance he described as sloppy. France are eliminated from the World Cup, and Mbappé's public questioning of his manager's tactics signals a serious rift at the heart of one of the world's top international sides.
FIFA's Infantino Reported to IOC Over Alleged Political Neutrality Breach
A formal complaint has been submitted to the International Olympic Committee alleging that FIFA president Gianni Infantino breached rules on political neutrality through his dealings with President Donald Trump, linked to the World Cup. The complaint represents a significant challenge to Infantino's conduct at the head of world football's governing body. A formal IOC complaint against a sitting FIFA president over political neutrality could have serious implications for football's governance and the running of the 2026 World Cup.
Freese Opens Up on Pain of USMNT World Cup Exit After 4-1 Belgium Loss
USA goalkeeper Matt Freese has spoken out about the criticism directed at the team following their 4-1 round-of-16 defeat to Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. Freese said the backlash 'hurts my heart', as the USA were eliminated from a tournament they were co-hosting. The USA's 4-1 elimination from their home World Cup in the round of 16 has sparked significant public scrutiny of the national team's performance on their biggest-ever stage.
Brighton Sign Luka Vuskovic from Spurs in Club-Record Deal
Brighton have completed the signing of Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham Hotspur in a club-record transfer. The deal represents Brighton's biggest outlay in the club's history.
Balogun Knew Trump World Cup Suspension Intervention Would Spark Controversy
USA striker Folarin Balogun has acknowledged he expected President Trump's intervention in overturning his World Cup suspension to prove controversial. Balogun said he knew the involvement 'would cause a lot of controversy'.
Manchester City target Lille's Bouaddi in £85m move
Manchester City are targeting Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi for €100m (£85m). The 18-year-old Morocco international has attracted widespread interest following his World Cup performances. The signing would take City's outlay on two midfielders to around £200m.