Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

World Cup Final Showdown and Tournament Fallout

The FIFA World Cup final is set to feature a headline clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal go head-to-head, with the latter aiming to dethrone the veteran GOAT. For fans tuning in late, highlights of the tournament have showcased Messi's heroics and notable underdog upsets. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente and Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni share a pre-existing connection, having known each other from their classroom days. Spain, reaching their second final, are looking to cap off years of development, bolstered by an elite defense that complements their renowned possession-based style elite defense. Meanwhile, defender Aymeric Laporte feels Argentina has a tendency to leave their mark on opponents. The World Cup final is expected to draw an estimated 1.5 billion viewers globally, with some tuning in from the most remote locations on Earth most isolated locations.

Club Football Transfers and Managerial News

Arsenal is reportedly preparing an offer for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, and also has Aston Villa winger Morgan Rogers as a priority target. Johan Manzambi has joined Aston Villa in a club-record deal exceeding £50 million, poised to be a key figure in the club's new era. Leeds United has secured the signing of defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1 million from Serie A side Sassuolo sign defender. In Scotland, winger becomes a key target for Celtic, while Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new contract with the club to join Bursaspor. Former loanee Marcelo Saracchi has also given up on returning to the Scottish champions. Paul Lambert believes Celtic requires significant recruitment to be competitive, though he cautions against panic.

International Management and Player Futures

Mauricio Pochettino stated he will announce his decision regarding his future as the United States national team coach next week make a decision. England manager Thomas Tuchel has defended his tactical choices following the semi-final defeat to Argentina, urging his players to finish the tournament strongly in an emotional address. Former Spain international Joan Capdevila has appealed to US President Donald Trump for assistance after reportedly being denied a travel permit to enter the United States for the World Cup final. US President Donald Trump has also questioned Harry Kane's second-half role in England's semi-final loss, suggesting he was made a defensive player. Wayne Rooney believes the Football Association should retain Thomas Tuchel as England head coach unless Pep Guardiola is an attainable option. Scot Gemmill will depart his role as Scotland Under-21 head coach after 13 years depart from the role.

Golf and Other Sports Highlights

Ryan Fox has joined an exclusive group in men's major golf history by achieving a '62 round' at the 154th Open. Rory McIlroy plans an aggressive approach with the driver to climb back into contention at The 154th Open. Bryson DeChambeau has faced criticism for how he handled a two-shot penalty during his second round at The Open, with some suggesting he 'made himself the story'. In Formula, Kimi Antonelli topped the second practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix with a dominant display, while Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that Ferrari can reduce their deficit to rivals. In rugby, a ruthless All Blacks performance secured a 40-21 victory over Ireland at Eden Park, ensuring they finish their home Nations Championship block with a perfect record. In darts, Luke Humphries aims to face Luke Littler in the World Matchplay Darts final, viewing a victory over his rival as the crowning achievement. In cricket, the Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a commanding 10-wicket victory over Durham, thanks to a century partnership from Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce.