Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

World Cup Final Showdown: Argentina vs. Spain in Historic Clash

Lionel Messi called his 2007 photo with Lamine Yamal "incredible" Messi called ahead of Argentina's World Cup final showdown with Spain. Spain, reaching the final for just the second time, Spain reaching feels like a culmination for the team, with Rodri confident in their "complete" status. Defender Aymeric Laporte warned that Argentina "likes to leave a mark on their opponents" Laporte warned, while Spain's manager Luis de la Fuente stated his team is "feeling unbeatable" heading into the match. Manager Lionel Scaloni also dismissed criticism, saying Argentina is "not as bad" Scaloni said as some portray. The final could also decide the Ballon d'Or race, with Messi aiming to cap his career as the greatest male athlete ever Messi is. Spain, known for their possession-based style, has developed an elite defense to reach this stage elite defense.

England's World Cup Exit and Future Under Tuchel

England manager Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions Tuchel defended following the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, calling the loss a "scar we carry now" loss is. Despite criticism from figures like Donald Trump, who questioned Harry Kane's defensive role Trump questioned, Tuchel urged his players to finish the tournament strongly. Wayne Rooney suggested sticking with Tuchel unless Pep Guardiola is available Rooney thinks, while others questioned if anything has changed tactically since the Gareth Southgate era. England captain Harry Kane admitted the team is "missing that final piece of the jigsaw" Kane says and that holding onto a 1-0 lead backfired. Despite the semi-final heartbreak, there are reasons for optimism about England's future reasons to. Jude Bellingham was seen slapping the back of an opponent's head after the defeat Bellingham slapped.

Club Signings and Transfer Rumors Across Europe

Leeds United signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m from Sassuolo. Aston Villa is reportedly preparing an offer for defender Konsa and has signed Morgan Rogers. Elsewhere, defender Maxime Esteve left Burnley to join RB Leipzig for a reported £27.3m Esteve leaves. In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho rejected a new Celtic deal, while Rangers are in talks for Partizan's Dragojevic. Liverpool has seen Dominik Szoboszlai sign a new long-term deal.

Other Football News and Developments

The World Cup has been a significant boon for beer sales in the U.S., with a 14% increase reported sales at. Mauricio Pochettino will reveal his decision on his future as coach of the United States national team next week Poch to. Andrey Santos could make his debut for Manchester United in a friendly against Wrexham Santos in. The list of candidates to succeed Don Garber as MLS commissioner is down to three MLS down. In other news, former Spain captain Cesar Azpilicueta highlighted Spain's confidence in their team identity. The jersey Pelé wore during Brazil's 1958 World Cup final victory sold for $4.88 million jersey Pelé.

Rugby, Darts, and Other Sports Updates

England will switch hotels in Buenos Aires to avoid any celebrations should Argentina win the World Cup. Jamie George will captain an unchanged England XV against Argentina in the Nations Championship, with players avoiding national shirts in Buenos Aires. In darts, Luke Humphries aims to face Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final. Michael van Gerwen faces pressure at the World Matchplay, while Wessel Nijman emerges as a contender MVG under. In boxing, Amanda Serrano will defend her world titles against Lucrecia Manzur in a fight shown on TikTok.

Formula 1 and Motorsports News

Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that Ferrari can close the deficit to their rivals at the Belgian Grand Prix, though Max Verstappen was fastest in first practice, with Mercedes struggling. Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix Norris to. McLaren confirmed they will bring "significant upgrades" to the upcoming races. British driver Oliver Bearman is "flattered" by Red Bull rumors amid uncertainty over Max Verstappen's future.

Cricket and Golf Updates

Joe Root scored 99 not out to help England level the one-day international series against India. In golf, Rory McIlroy is prepared to attack Royal Birkdale with his driver at The 154th Open. Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns equaled history by scoring a '62 round' at The 154th Open Herbert and. Bryson DeChambeau has responded to claims of lacking strategy with a strong start to The 154th Open.

Women's Football and Other League News

The Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a dominant 10-wicket win over Durham. WSL newcomers Birmingham City have signed Canada international Marie Levasseur. Sam Kerr made her return for Gotham FC in a sold-out victory at Citi Field. Crystal Palace signed striker Bethany England, while Newcastle United signed defender Rachel McLauchlan. London City Lionesses are aiming for success after significant summer signings Kang insists.

NRL and Other League Action

Zach Eckersley scored a hat-trick to help Wigan secure a 24-10 victory over Huddersfield in the Betfred Super League Eckersley scored. Sky Sports confirmed live coverage of five Women's Super League fixtures, including a Grand Final rematch.

Soccer Transfer Gossip and Rumors

Arsenal are reportedly exploring a swap deal for Julián Álvarez Arsenal are. Manchester United are targeting West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville. Bournemouth is in talks to sign Benfica defender Antonio Silva. Harry Winks left Leicester for Italian side Cagliari.

Horse Racing and Other Betting Previews

Hollie Doyle provided her verdict on the Newbury card. Betting angles for the Weatherbys Super Sprint at Newbury were discussed Tracey, Sam. Sky Sports Racing cameras will feature action from Chepstow and Ffos Las.

Retirements and Career Milestones

Goalkeeper Craig Gordon, has retired after a 25-year career Gordon, 43. England 1966 World Cup winner Nobby Stiles died with a brain condition caused by heading footballs.

MLS and North American Soccer

Poor air quality due to wildfire smoke postponed an MLS game between the Vancouver Whitecaps and Fire. New York City FC is interested in signing Christian Pulisic but AC Milan is not selling NYCFC eye. Chicago Fire's new signing Robert Lewandowski stated he couldn't imagine playing for another European club New Chicago.