Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Final Preview: Spain vs. Argentina

European champions Spain will face off against reigning World Cup holders Argentina in a highly anticipated final. Spain's journey to the final has been marked by their defensive prowess, described as "defensive kings", while Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, have navigated a path that the. Messi himself has been lauded as the "greatest male athlete" in history. Spain's coach, Thomas Tuchel, has defended his tactical decisions following their semi-final win, though US President Donald Trump has questioned England's tactics, specifically Harry Kane's second-half role. Spain's confidence stems from their team identity, with former captain Cesar Azpilicueta explaining their belief in the collective. Defender Aymeric Laporte has warned that Argentina "likes to leave a mark on their opponents". The World Cup has also been a financial boon for U.S. suds sales, with bars and restaurants reporting a 14% bump in sales.

England's World Cup Reflection and Future

Despite their semi-final exit, England manager Thomas Tuchel has urged his players to finish the tournament strongly in an emotional address. Tuchel has defended his decisions, but some, like Wayne Rooney, believe the FA should stick with him unless Pep Guardiola is available. US President Donald Trump has also weighed in, questioning Harry Kane's defensive role in the semi-final loss. Meanwhile, there are reasons for optimism about England's future, with five points highlighting potential positives despite the semi-final heartbreak. The third-place play-off against France is being framed as a significant match for Tuchel and the team, given the unprecedented run of games against top-tier opponents.

Transfer Buzz and Club News

Celtic are reportedly targeting a winger as a priority, with Kelechi Iheanacho rejecting a new contract and joining Bursaspor. Chelsea's goalkeeping prospect Mike Penders is being compared to Thibaut Courtois. Manchester United's Andrey Santos has been included in the squad for their. Arsenal are reportedly preparing an offer for Aston and are also interested in Morgan Rogers. Leeds United have signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m. West Ham have signed forward Kelly Gago and made Estelle Cascarino's. Heart of Midlothian have signed goalkeeper Beau Reus as Alexander Schwolow departs.

Other Football Notes

The MLS commissioner search has narrowed to three candidates. Uefa has stated that VAR will not be used for diving in the same way as seen at. Birmingham City have signed Canada international Marie Levasseur. Aston Villa have signed defender Mathilde Harviken from Juventus. Maxime Esteve has left Burnley to join RB Leipzig for a reported £27.3m. Newcastle United are targeting players "desperate" to join as they. The financial impact of the World Cup is being assessed, with big money being made off the field.

Beyond the Pitch

In other sporting news, a potential "blockbuster fight" between Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma in Nigeria is being promoted as a significant event. Sky Sports will broadcast five Women's Super League fixtures, including a Grand Final rematch. The 154th Open golf tournament is underway, with Rory McIlroy employing an, and Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns have joined an exclusive club with '62 rounds'. In Formula, Kimi Antonelli was fastest in Belgian Grand Prix practice, while Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen were separated by just tenths in another session.