Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Final Approaches as Nations Prepare for Showdown

The 2026 World Cup is set for its climax as Spain and Argentina. Spain, drawing comparisons to their 2010 winning squad to bring home the trophy, with an elite defense being highlighted as a key strength. Lionel Messi, aiming to cap his World Cup journey, faces Spain in what could be his last tournament appearance. Argentina's journey has been fueled by Messi's brilliance, with the captain asserting that "nothing was handed to us". Meanwhile, England's semi-final exit in the World Cup has sparked debate about tactical approaches and player performances, with coach Thomas Tuchel vowing to stay on despite criticism. The third-place play-off between England and France, as the tournament nears its conclusion. Donald Trump is confirmed to present the trophy to the winners.

Club Signings and Transfers Dominate Football News

Aston Villa has been active in the transfer market, completing a club-record signing of Johan Manzambi from Freiburg for £59.5 million, beating Newcastle to his signature. They have also secured goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer from Everton and signed Norway international defender Mathilde Harviken from Juventus. Leeds United has bolstered their defense by signing Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1 million from Sassuolo. In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new Celtic deal to join Bursaspor in Turkey's second tier, while Rangers are reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Partizan Belgrade midfielder. WSL newcomers Birmingham City have signed Canada international Marie Levasseur, and Arsenal has signed teenage Danish goalkeeper Isabella Damm. Crystal Palace has signed Lexi Lloyd-Smith, last season's WSL2 top scorer, on a three-year deal.

Rugby and Darts Season Heats Up with Major Contests

England's rugby team, captained by Jamie George in the Nations Championship, with players continuing to avoid wearing national shirts in Buenos Aires. Meanwhile, in darts, Luke Humphries has expressed his desire to face Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final, aiming for a "dream draw". The World Matchplay Darts 2026 is approaching, with Luke Littler looking to become the first player to win back-to-back titles in a decade. Michael van Gerwen faces pressure to perform, and Wessel Nijman has emerged as a serious contender.

Golfers Make History at The Open, F1 Sees Practice Action

The 154th Open is underway at Royal Birkdale, where Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns have with impressive 62s. Bryson DeChambeau has hit back at criticism of his strategy with a strong start to the tournament. In Formula, championship leader Kimi Antonelli at the Belgian Grand Prix, while Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty. Max Verstappen was surprisingly fastest in first practice, with Mercedes struggling.

Other Sports News and Developments

The World Cup has provided a significant boost to beer sales in the U.S., with host cities reporting a 14 percent increase in the first four weeks of the tournament. Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a new long-term contract at Anfield, with reports indicating it's a five-year deal. West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen will stay at the club despite their relegation from the Premier League. Former West Indies captain Sir Garfield "Garry" Sobers has died at the age of 89. In athletics, a bizarre training accident Hodgkinson's world record attempt.