Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Final Beckons as Spain Faces Argentina

The FIFA World Cup final is set to feature Spain against Argentina, with both teams expressing confidence in their respective styles of play. Spain, known for its possession-based "beautiful game," is relying on an "elite defense" to secure victory. Former Spain captain Cesar Azpilicueta highlighted the team's faith in their collective identity. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi's potential final World Cup match is a major storyline, with ESPN asserting he is "the greatest male athlete -- in any sport -- in history". The tournament has also seen significant commercial impact, with U.S. beer sales experiencing a "14% bump" in bars, restaurants, and stadiums during the first four weeks Beer here!. Donald Trump is confirmed to attend the final and will present the trophy, with the winning side receiving commemorative rings.

England Reflects on World Cup Exit, Looks Ahead

Despite an "agonizing semi-final defeat" to Argentina, England manager Thomas Tuchel has delivered an "emotional address" urging his players to finish the World Cup strongly. Wayne Rooney suggested that the Football Association should "stick with Thomas Tuchel" as head coach unless Pep Guardiola becomes available. England captain Harry Kane acknowledged the team is "missing that final piece of the jigsaw" and needs to improve. However, there are still "plenty of reasons to be optimistic" about England's footballing future. The bronze medal match between England and France still has "around 7,000 tickets" available on FIFA's sites.

Club Transfer Rumors and Signings Abound

In the transfer market, Arsenal is reportedly preparing an "offer for Aston Villa defender Konsa". Further speculation suggests Arsenal also wants Morgan Rogers, with the club having made him their "top forward target this summer". Leeds United has signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for "£34.1m" from Sassuolo. Elsewhere, Maxime Esteve has left Burnley to join RB Leipzig for a reported "£27.3m" leaves Burnley. Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a "new long-term deal" at Liverpool.

Rugby and Other Sports News

Beyond football, the rugby rivalry between England and Argentina is set for another chapter, with England switching hotels to avoid potential Argentinian World Cup celebrations should they win. In darts, Luke Humphries is targeting a "dream draw" against Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final, while pundits are picking their favorites for the tournament. In golf, Rory McIlroy is adopting an "aggressive strategy" at The 154th Open, aiming to attack Royal Birkdale with the driver. Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns have joined an "exclusive club" by shooting a "62 round" at the same event.

Rugby League and Women's Cricket Updates

In Rugby League, Zach Eckersley scored a hat-trick to help Wigan to a "24-10 victory" over Huddersfield in the Betfred Super League. The Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a "dominant 10-wicket win" over Durham, led by an "118-run stand" between Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce. Sky Sports will broadcast "five live fixtures" in the Women's Super League, including a Grand Final rematch.

Motorsport and Athletics Updates

In motorsport, Kimi Antonelli was "fastest in Belgian GP practice" and has changed his engine ahead of the first practice session. Max Verstappen topped the timesheets in the first practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, ahead of Lewis Hamilton, as Mercedes "struggle". Meanwhile, an athletics world record attempt is facing potential disruption due to a "bizarre training accident".