Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Spain Crowned World Cup Champions

Spain's men's national team on Sunday, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in New Jersey. Youngster Lamine Yamal in a final that saw Lionel Messi struggle to make an impact, earning him a player rating of 3/10. The victory solidifies Spain's dominance in international football, making them the first nation to hold both the men's and women's World Cup titles simultaneously, and has led bookmakers to for the 2030 World Cup. The BBC reported a peak audience of 15.8 million viewers for the final.

Post-World Cup Fallout and Player Futures

Following the World Cup final loss, Lionel Messi to Argentina fans, though his future with the national team remains uncertain after he was left in tears on the pitch. Manager Lionel Scaloni also, stating he would need time to consider his options. FIFA has opened an investigation into unsavory scenes that occurred after the final, while UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin boycotted the event in protest against FIFA. Rodri, who was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, has as one of the world's elite midfielders.

Club Transfers and Squad Moves

In the transfer market, Manchester United and Arsenal are reportedly battling for the signature of France's Manu Kone. Chelsea are also active, in talks with Crystal Palace over defender Maxence Lacroix and having completed the signing of Manchester United forward Melvine Malard for £750,000. Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers is reportedly heading to Chelsea for a British-record £117 million, a move some pundits questioned as unnecessary. Liverpool have secured the signing of attacking midfielder Mao Itamura from Feyenoord, while Bayern Munich defender Konrad Laimer has.

NWSL and Other Football News

In the NWSL, Gotham FC has climbed to the top of the Power Rankings, propelled by strong performances from Rose Lavelle, Esther González, Jaedyn Shaw, and Sam Kerr. Hearts are preparing for their Champions League qualifying campaign and have also agreed a deal to sign Forest Green captain Laurent Mendy. Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of. Belgium manager Rudi Garcia will when his contract expires.

Darts, Golf, and Motorsport Updates

Beyond football, the World Matchplay Darts is underway, with Humphries facing trouble against Menzies after Price won a thriller. In golf, Bryson DeChambeau has been accused of attempting to involve President Donald Trump during a rules controversy at The Open. On the motorsport circuit, George Russell has to overcome setbacks in his Formula 1 championship challenge.