Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 20, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Spain Crowned World Champions After Extra-Time Thriller

Spain are the 2026 World Cup champions, defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the final held in New Jersey crowned champions. The victory marks Spain's second World Cup title, with bookmakers already installing them as favorites to repeat in 2030. Rodri was lauded as the on-field mastermind of Spain's triumph, earning the Golden Ball award for his performances throughout the tournament. Despite a stellar tournament, Lionel Messi was unable to inspire Argentina to victory, with his performance in the final drawing criticism. The final match itself was watched by a peak audience of 15.8 million on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

World Cup Wrap-Up: Awards, Memorable Moments, and Controversy

As the 2026 World Cup concludes, accolades are being handed out for the tournament's best and most disappointing XIs. Beyond the on-field action, the tournament also generated a significant number of viral moments, contributing to its memorable status. However, the post-final period was marred by ugly scenes, leading FIFA to open an investigation into Argentina's conduct. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin notably boycotted the final in protest against FIFA. The tournament itself was a record-breaker in terms of goals, with 308 scored across 104 games.

Transfer Market Buzz: Premier League Clubs Eyeing New Signings

The summer transfer window is heating up, with Manchester United and Arsenal reportedly in a battle for the signature of France's Manu Kone. Chelsea are in discussions with Crystal Palace regarding defender Maxence Lacroix. Meanwhile, Barcelona are exploring alternative striker targets should their pursuit of Julián Álvarez falter. The Premier League transfer fees continue to soar, with Morgan Rogers' potential move to Chelsea for a British-record £117m highlighting the inflated market.

NWSL Action and European Football News

In the NWSL, Gotham FC has surged to the top of the Power Rankings thanks to standout performances from Rose Lavelle, Esther González, Jaedyn Shaw, and Sam Kerr. Gotham FC's head coach, Juan Carlos Amorós, will be taking a five-week paternity leave. In European football news, Bayern Munich defender Konrad Laimer has signed a new three-year contract with the club. Pep Guardiola is reportedly in talks for the vacant Italy head coach job. Hearts are preparing for their Champions League qualifying campaign, with Head Coach Wouter Vrancken vowing they will "go for it".

Cricket and Other Sports Updates

The Hundred is set to begin, with Katherine Sciver-Brunt taking on her first coaching role as an assistant coach for Trent Rockets Women. In cricket, England secured a series-clinching ODI win over India at Lord's, with Ben Duckett and Sam Curran playing key roles. The Betfred Super League sees Leeds Rhinos players Jake Connor and Ash Handley atop the Man of Steel rankings. In darts, James Wade and Luke Littler secured first-round wins in the World Matchplay.

Golf and Motorsport News

At The Open, Ryan Fox claimed his maiden major title in a dramatic one-shot victory over Cameron Young. Bryson DeChambeau's rules controversy at The Open has drawn a defense from Scottie Scheffler, who insists DeChambeau is "not a cheater". In Formula, Kimi Antonelli has admitted he could not have imagined his dominant position in the world championship. Lewis Hamilton expressed relief after a mechanic involved in a pit-stop incident was unhurt.