Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 23, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Spain Dominates World Cup Stage

Spain's national football teams have achieved historic dominance, becoming the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men's and women's World Cups. The men's squad returned home for a celebratory parade after their victory, meeting with the country's royals and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Midfielder Gavi, who received his body weight in tomatoes as a reward in his hometown, commented on the team's performance and suggested that Argentina should not face punishment for their actions after the final. Teammate Lamine Yamal, despite an injury impacting his play, was praised by Robert Lewandowski for his contribution to the win. Lionel Messi, after a World Cup final loss to Spain, was seen resting in Rosario and encouraged Yamal to "go his own way". Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is reportedly considering his international future following the final defeat.

Premier League Transfer Buzz

The summer transfer window is heating up as clubs jostle for top talent. Liverpool is reportedly leading the race to sign PSG's Bradley Barcola and has also made an initial approach for Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche. Manager Andoni Iraola acknowledged the club has "obvious" transfer needs to bolster the squad. Chelsea has completed a record-breaking £117m deal for Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, a move that carries significant risk despite the substantial fee. The club is also reportedly interested in free agent defender John Stones. Manchester United is exploring the possibility of signing Real Madrid's Eduardo Camavinga and is also in a bidding war with Arsenal for Manu Kone. Arsenal, meanwhile, has signed former Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez and retains an interest in Bradley Barcola after missing out on Morgan Rogers. Tottenham has signed France defender Alice Sombath for a club-record fee from Lyon.

Scottish Premiership and European Hopes

Rangers are reportedly leading the chase to sign Ryan Fosso from Sturm Graz, while Dundee United's Will Ferry is linked with Celtic. Hearts, however, have suffered a chastening Champions League defeat, with new head coach Wouter Vrancken enduring a nightmare debut in a 4-0 loss to Sturm Graz. Hearts fans have been enduring a difficult period since May, with their European journey beginning amidst this turmoil. Hibernian and Motherwell are set to begin their European campaigns, with questions surrounding their potential progress.

MLS Action and Investigations

Inter Miami CF managed to spoil Robert Lewandowski's debut for Chicago, with Luis Suárez scoring twice in a 3-2 victory. However, the club is now facing an MLS investigation over a tampering allegation regarding the signing of Brazilian defender Casemiro. The star-studded Gotham FC has jumped to the top of the NWSL Power Rankings, with strong performances from Rose Lavelle, Esther González, Jaedyn Shaw, and Sam Kerr. Denver Summit FC's new permanent stadium will not be ready for the start of the 2028 NWSL season as originally planned.

Other Football News and Gossip

Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare forced the cancellation of a training session by refusing to leave the pitch. The FA has charged TNS chairman Harris over a social media post, accusing him of publishing offensive content. The Premier League is experiencing a transfer price explosion, with the £100m-plus player becoming increasingly common. La Liga president Javier Tebas has called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign, claiming the governing body is "destroying the football industry". Nauru remains the only nation to have never played an official international football match, but there are questions about whether this could change.

Boxing and Darts Updates

Anthony Joshua has revealed that Oleksandr Usyk's team urged him to "show greatness" ahead of his comeback fight. Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua have traded insults, casting further doubt on their anticipated showdown. In darts, Cameron Menzies' match at the World Matchplay was abandoned after he became dizzy and fainted on stage. Luke Littler produced a sensational nine-darter en route to a mesmerising 11-8 win over Nathan Aspinall at the World Matchplay.

Racing and Other Sports

A busy day of horse racing is scheduled, with Flat action from Doncaster, Newbury, Southwell, and Yarmouth live on Sky Sports Racing. Lewis Hamilton has urged Ferrari to "come and fight for the win" at the Hungarian Grand Prix, anticipating a competitive challenge from the Scuderia. Kimi Antonelli will be among five drivers to miss first practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.