Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 18, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

World Cup Final Showdown: Argentina vs. Spain

Sunday will see a historic World Cup final and Lamine Yamal, with Spain confident in their ability to overcome the reigning champions Argentina. This marks Spain's second-ever appearance in the final, and Rodri believes they are "complete" and ready to challenge. The match promises to be a tactical battle, with Spain aiming to replicate their famed possession-based style against an Argentina side that defender Aymeric Laporte claims "likes to leave a mark on their opponents" claim Laporte. Lionel Messi, widely considered the greatest male athlete of all time, is looking to cap off his World Cup journey with another title in what could be his final appearance. The final is expected to draw an estimated 1.5 billion viewers worldwide.

England's World Cup Exit and Future Outlook

England's World Cup dreams were dashed in a semi-final loss to Argentina, a defeat that has sparked debate and analysis. Manager Thomas Tuchel defended his tactical decisions following the loss, though some critics, including US President Donald Trump, questioned Harry Kane's second-half role. Despite the disappointment, there are reasons for optimism, with the team aiming to finish strongly in the third-place play-off against France. The FA has retained their backing for Tuchel, but questions remain about how to fix key problems for Euro 2028. The semi-final match against Argentina attracted an audience of 24 million viewers in the UK.

Transfer Buzz and Club Signings

The transfer window is heating up with several notable moves and rumors. Aston Villa has made a club-record signing, bringing in Johan Manzambi for over £50m. Arsenal is reportedly interested in Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, and is also assessing William Saliba's back injury. Inter Milan is working on deals for Djed Spence and Cristian Romero, while Leeds United has signed defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m Leeds sign. In Scotland, Kelechi Iheanacho has rejected a new Celtic deal to join Bursaspor, and Rangers are in talks with Leicester over Wanya Mavididi. Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has signed for Fenerbahçe.

Other Football News and Developments

Andrey Santos could make his debut for Manchester United in a friendly against Wrexham Santos in squad. The MLS is reportedly down to three candidates to replace commissioner Don Garber. Former Spain international Joan Capdevila has appealed to US President Donald Trump for help after being denied a travel permit to enter the United States. The World Cup has also had an impact off the field, with beer sales in the U.S. reporting a 14% bump in the first four weeks of the tournament. A jersey worn by Pelé in the 1958 World Cup final sold for $4.88 million at Sotheby's.

Rugby Union and Darts Action

In rugby, the All Blacks secured a dominant 40-21 victory over Ireland at Eden Park. Ireland has made nine changes for their upcoming clash against the All Blacks. Meanwhile, Jamie George has threatened to lead his England rugby team off the pitch against Argentina if racial abuse resurfaces. In darts, Luke Humphries is targeting a "dream draw" against Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final.

Motorsport and Golf Updates

At the Belgian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen topped the timesheets in first practice, with Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes struggling. World championship leader Kimi Antonelli was fastest in second practice. In golf, Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns equalled history by shooting a '62 round' at The 154th Open. Rory McIlroy is employing an aggressive strategy to climb the leaderboard at Royal Birkdale.

Women's Football and Other Sports

Sam Kerr made her return for Gotham FC in a sold-out NWSL victory. Birmingham City has signed Canada international Marie Levasseur and French defender Jade Rastocle. The Blaze secured the Women's T20 Blast title with a dominant 10-wicket win over Durham. In boxing, Amanda Serrano will defend her world titles against Lucrecia Manzur in a fight streamed on TikTok.