Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

World Cup Finalists Set, England Bows Out

Spain will face Argentina in the World Cup final after impressive semi-final victories. Spain showcased their "elite defense" and team identity to reach the final, with manager Luis de la Fuente stating his team is "feeling unbeatable". Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, overcame England in a dramatic comeback win, with Messi asserting that "nothing was handed to us". England's World Cup journey ended in the semi-finals, a result captain Harry Kane admitted was due to their inability to "hold on" to a lead. Manager Thomas Tuchel has retained the FA's backing despite the defeat, though some question if "anything has really changed" from previous England campaigns. The World Cup has also seen significant beer sales in the U.S., with a 14% bump reported at bars, restaurants, and stadiums.

Club Transfers and Squad Movements

Premier League clubs continue to be active in the transfer market. Arsenal is reportedly preparing an offer for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa and is also targeting Morgan Rogers. Leeds United has signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m Leeds sign, while Aston Villa has secured the signing of Mathilde Harviken from Juventus. West Ham United has signed forward Kelly Gago and made Estelle Cascarino's loan move permanent. In Scotland, Rangers are reportedly in talks with Leicester City for Wanya Marston, and Celtic are struggling to compete in the transfer window. Meanwhile, defender Maxime Esteve leaves Burnley for RB Leipzig for a reported £27.3m leaves Burnley.

Rugby and Darts Action

In rugby, England is set to face Argentina in the Nations Championship, with captain Jamie George leading an unchanged side. The match follows the World Cup semi-final between the two nations, and George has threatened to lead his team off the pitch if racial abuse resurfaces. In darts, Luke Humphries is targeting a "dream draw" against Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final. Michael van Gerwen is under pressure at the World Matchplay, while Wessel Nijman has emerged as a title threat.

Other Sporting News

In cricket, the Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a dominant 10-wicket win over Durham, thanks to a 118-run stand from Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Bryce. Joe Root delivered again for England, scoring 99 not out to level the ODI series against India. In golf, Rory McIlroy is ready to attack Royal Birkdale with his driver in pursuit of contention at The 154th Open. Dan Brown holds a share of the early lead at The Open. In motorsport, Kimi Antonelli was fastest in practice for the Belgian Grand Prix, while Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty. Finally, historic jersey sales continue, with Pelé's 1958 World Cup final jersey selling for $4.88 million.