Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Final Showdown and Pre-Tournament Buzz

As the highly anticipated World Cup final approaches, Spain's final training session was cancelled due to thunderstorms in New Jersey. The final pits Lionel Messi against Lamine Yamal, with discussions about whether Yamal can seize the crown from the veteran magician continuing. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente and Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni share a unique bond, forged in a classroom before their World Cup final clash on Sunday. Spain, reaching the final for just the second time, sees this as the culmination of years of development, according to Rodri, who believes they are a 'complete' side ready to face Argentina . Defensive prowess is highlighted as a key element of Spain's success, with their elite defense being crucial to their journey to the final. Meanwhile, the tournament has seen a significant increase in harmful social media posts, with 14 times more reported during this World Cup compared to 2022 according to Fifa. The choice of Met Life Stadium as the World Cup final venue is also under scrutiny, with questions raised about its suitability compared to rival bids. In pre-season action, Manchester United against Wrexham in their opening fixture, with Andrey Santos making his debut for the Red Devils in Helsinki.

Rugby and Golf Action Heats Up

In rugby, the All Blacks dominated Ireland with a ruthless 40-21 victory at Eden Park, securing three wins from three in the inaugural Nations Championship. The Springboks also delivered a commanding performance in their Nations Championship match. Meanwhile, golf's 154th Open saw Ryan Fox by shooting a '62 round', following in the footsteps of Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns. Rory McIlroy has strongly criticized Bryson DeChambeau, accusing him of 'performative' behavior and 'holding The Open hostage' during a rules controversy on the course.

Athletics Records and Racing Insights

The Diamond League event in London witnessed Josh Kerr for the mile, although Keely Hodgkinson's attempt to break the oldest world record in athletics fell short. On the racing front, Johanna Walsh to secure victory in the Juddmonte Irish Oaks. Saturday's racing schedule included flat action from Doncaster, Newbury, and Ripon, with Bint Archange featured in the Super Sprint at Newbury on the card.

Football Transfer Speculation and Club Moves

Transfer rumors continue to swirl, with Arsenal reportedly preparing an offer for Aston Villa defender Konsa according to the papers. Arsenal is also interested in Morgan Rogers, while Mohamed Salah is linked with a move to Besiktas, and Manchester United is reportedly eyeing Neco Williams. Johan Manzambi has joined Aston Villa in a club-record deal worth over £50 million, signaling a new era for the club. In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new contract with Celtic, opting to join Bursaspor, and former loanee Marcelo Saracchi has given up on returning to the Scottish champions. Winger becomes a key target for Celtic, with Aberdeen seeing comings and goings and Motherwell agreeing to sell a winger. Paul Lambert believes Celtic are "nowhere near good enough" without further recruitment but advises against panic at the club.

Coaching Changes and Player Futures

New Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola faces numerous decisions in his first week on the job as he prepares for the new season at Anfield. Mauricio Pochettino is set to announce his decision regarding his future as coach of the United States national team next week according to sources. Darren Lehmann has endorsed Justin Langer for the vacant England Test head coach position, though he himself has not been contacted. Scot Gemmill will depart as Scotland Under-21 head coach after 13 years of service as announced by the Scottish FA.

Domestic Abuse Concerns and Player Criticism

A concerning trend has emerged during the World Cup, with research indicating that domestic abuse rises when England plays, causing fear for women and girls. England head coach Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions after the semi-final defeat to Argentina, stating the loss is "a scar we carry now" in a news conference. US President Donald Trump has also weighed in, questioning Harry Kane's second-half "defensive" role in the semi-final loss to Argentina criticizing tactics. Wayne Rooney suggests sticking with Tuchel as England head coach unless Pep Guardiola is available.

Other Sporting Notes

The World Cup has provided a significant boost to beer sales in the U.S., with host cities reporting a 14% increase in sales at bars, restaurants, and stadiums during the first four weeks of the tournament. The Fifa World Cup Bronze Final's existence is being questioned in football circles. In boxing, promoter Dr Ezekiel Adamu believes a fight between Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma in Nigeria would generate more global interest than Muhammad Ali’s 'Rumble in the Jungle'. In Super League rugby, Zach Eckersley scored a hat-trick to lead Wigan to a 24-10 victory over Huddersfield, while St Helens compounded Catalans' struggles in the league. The Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a dominant 10-wicket win over Durham, thanks to an 118-run stand between Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce in the final.