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FIFA has officially announced that American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The 44-year-old experienced MLS official, widely regarded as a lucky charm for Lionel Messi, will oversee the blockbuster clash in Atlanta on Wednesday night as Thomas Tuchel aims to guide the Three Lions past the defending world champions.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has urged new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso to sign free agent John Stones, arguing the England defender would bring experience and leadership to a young squad. The former Blues striker believes Chelsea's lighter schedule next season could also help minimise concerns over Stones' injury record.

FIFA has been forced to make a rare exception to its strict tournament branding rules ahead of the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina. The governing body could not conceal the iconic Mercedes-Benz logo at Atlanta Stadium after engineering concerns made covering the landmark impossible.

The 2026 World Cup is in its final stages, with only four teams left fighting it out for the universally coveted trophy. While the collective prize is the main objective, a few are making a good case as the best player of the entire tournament. Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are currently the top candidates, but they face intense competition as the semi-finals begin.