Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup Final Showdown: Spain vs. Argentina

European champions Spain are set to face World Cup holders Argentina in a historic final, with both teams showcasing impressive statistical profiles. Spain, in particular, have demonstrated an elite defense, a stark contrast to their famed possession-based style. Captain Lionel Messi called a viral 2007 photo with Lamine Yamal "incredible" ahead of the final, highlighting the long journey for both players. Messi also defended his team against detractors, stating, "Nothing was handed to us." Rodri, a key player for Spain, believes the team is "feeling unbeatable" after reaching the final with a 2-0 win over France. Manager Luis de la Fuente echoed this sentiment, stating Spain are feeling "unbeatable." Meanwhile, defender Aymeric Laporte claimed Argentina "likes to leave a mark on their opponents." The World Cup final is shaping up to be pivotal in the Ballon d'Or race, with potential implications for the 2026 winner.

England's Post-Mortem and Future Outlook

Following their World Cup semi-final exit, England manager Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions, acknowledging the loss as a "scar we carry now." Despite the defeat, Tuchel urged his players to finish the tournament strongly. Captain Harry Kane admitted that holding onto a 1-0 lead proved insufficient against Argentina and that the team is "missing that final piece of the jigsaw." US President Donald Trump joined the criticism, questioning Kane's second-half defensive role. Amidst the discussions, Wayne Rooney suggested that the FA should stick with Tuchel unless Pep Guardiola is available. Despite the disappointment, there are regarding England's future. The third-place play-off against France is viewed as a significant match for Tuchel and the team. BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton predicted a "chaos v calm" dynamic in both the final and the third-place play-off.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club News

Celtic are reportedly prioritizing winger Hassan as a key transfer target. In other Scottish club news, Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new contract with Celtic, opting instead to join Bursaspor. Former loanee Marcelo Saracchi has given up on a return to the Scottish champions. Rangers are in talks to sign Serbian midfielder Dragojevic from Partizan Belgrade. Meanwhile, Arsenal are preparing an offer for Aston Villa defender Morgan Rogers, who has attracted significant interest. Manchester United are interested in Neco Williams and are reportedly targeting West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville as a target. Leeds United have signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m from Sassuolo.

Other Football Notes and Beyond

Chelsea's goalkeeping prospect Mike Penders is being compared to Thibaut Courtois. The World Cup has proven to be a boon for beer sales in the U.S., with a 14% bump reported in host cities. The MLS is down to three candidates to replace commissioner Don Garber. In rugby, England are facing Argentina with an unchanged team, though players continue to avoid wearing national shirts in Buenos Aires. In boxing, a fight between Anthony Joshua and Moses Itauma is being promoted as a "perfect story" for Nigeria.

Racing and Other Sports Updates

Excitement is building for the Weatherbys Super Sprint at Newbury on Saturday, with racing also taking place at Doncaster and Ripon. racing tips are available for the Newbury feature. In golf have joined an exclusive club by achieving '62 rounds' at The 154th Open. Rory McIlroy is employing an aggressive strategy, utilizing his driver to contend at Royal Birkdale. The Formula 1 season continues with practice sessions for the Belgian Grand Prix, where Kimi Antonelli was fastest in the second session, while Max Verstappen topped the first. Lewis Hamilton is hopeful Ferrari can close the deficit to their rivals, though admitted the gap was larger than anticipated. In darts, Luke Humphries is targeting a final showdown with Luke Littler at the World Matchplay.