Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

World Cup Final Showdown: Argentina vs. Spain Nears

The stage is set for a blockbuster World Cup final as Argentina prepares to face Spain. Lionel Messi, ahead of the historic matchup with a young Lamine Yamal "incredible." Messi has been a dominant force, with one article of all time. Spain, meanwhile, is and their ability to overcome Argentina, though defender Aymeric Laporte claimed their opponents "like to leave a mark." Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, has instilled a belief in the collective, with former captain Cesar Azpilicueta explainingCesar Azpilicueta their confidence in the team's identity to secure the win. For those just tuning in, highlights of the tournament have been compiled, showcasing Messi's heroics and other notable performances.

England's World Cup Exit and Future Outlook

England's World Cup journey ended in the semi-finals against Argentina, prompting a tense news conference from head coach Thomas Tuchel, who and admitted the loss is a "scar we carry now." Tuchel also to finish the tournament strongly in an emotional address. US President Donald Trump weighed in on England's tactics, questioning Harry Kane's second-half role. Despite the disappointment, there are about England's future, though captain Harry Kane stated the team is "missing that final piece of the jigsaw." Wayne Rooney believes the FA should unless Pep Guardiola is available, while another analysis questions since the Gareth Southgate era. England will face France in the third-place play-off, with around 7,000 tickets.

Transfer Buzz and Club Signings

In the transfer market, Arsenal is reportedly preparing an offer for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, and there are also rumors of interest in Morgan Rogers. Manchester United is reportedly interested in Neco Williams and is also targeting Crysencio Summerville. Leeds United has completed a signing of defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m. Elsewhere, West Ham has signed forward Kelly Gago and defender Estelle Cascarino, while Jarrod Bowen has to the club despite relegation. In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new contract with Celtic.

Other Football News and Notes

The World Cup has proven to be a significant economic boost, with U.S. cities reporting a 14% at bars, restaurants, and stadiums. In other news, Andrey Santos for Manchester United in a friendly against Wrexham. Uefa has announced that its VAR officials simulation as a basis for intervention, unlike at the World Cup. The MLS is reportedly to replace commissioner Don Garber. In a groundbreaking move, Amanda Serrano will against Lucrecia Manzur in a fight broadcast on TikTok.

Rugby and Other Sports Action

Beyond football, the rugby world sees England preparing to face Argentina in the Nations Championship, with Jamie George. In boxing, Conor Benn is set to challenge Ryan Garcia for the WBC welterweight title in Las Vegas. Golfers are competing at The 154th Open, where Rory McIlroy is and Bryson DeChambeau is hitting back at claims of lacking strategy. In darts, Luke Humphries aims to face Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final. Formula 1 sees Max Verstappen topping the timesheets in Belgian Grand Prix practice, while Lando Norris will take a 10-place grid penalty.