Stephen Killen

Dutch referee Rob Dieperink died suddenly weeks after being removed from FIFA’s World Cup officiating list despite sexual assault charges against an underage boy having been dismissed by UK police. The KNVB expressed shock and praised his professionalism, while noting the cause of death remains unknown. Dieperink had previously been arrested in London but released without charge after the Met Police found insufficient evidence. Though cleared, FIFA excluded him from the 2026 World Cup, a decision he publicly regretted. Police investigations into his death are ongoing.

England reached the World Cup semi-finals after an extra-time win over Norway driven by two goals from Jude Bellingham. Argentina advanced as well, defeating Switzerland 3-1 in a match marked by a controversial red card to Breel Embolo after a VAR intervention. Post-match tension escalated between England manager Thomas Tuchel and Bellingham following scrutiny of the team’s display, while Erling Haaland’s father sparked further controversy with public criticism of officiating. The semi-final bracket is now set, with England to face Argentina and France meeting Spain.

Thomas Tuchel criticised England’s performance despite their 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Norway but defended his players’ mentality when questioned in a tense ITV interview. Jude Bellingham scored both goals, including an extra-time winner after England came from behind. Norway had a goal ruled out following a VAR check, and another potential England penalty was overturned. Bellingham avoided commenting on Tuchel’s frustration, emphasising the difficulty of the match and focus on the upcoming semi-final against Argentina or Switzerland.

England prepare to face Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals amid reports of illness and unrest in the Norwegian squad, including complaints over accommodation and internal tensions. Belgium file a formal complaint to FIFA over unacceptable training pitch conditions ahead of their own quarter-final. FIFA rejects France’s appeal to overturn Michael Olise’s yellow card, leaving the winger at risk of suspension. Mexico appoint Rafael Márquez as their new national team manager following Javier Aguirre’s departure after a 3-2 loss to England.