Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Final Approaches

The World Cup final is set to feature Spain against Argentina, with Spain to deliver the victory. England manager Thomas Tuchel has delivered an to his squad, urging them to finish the tournament strongly following their semi-final defeat. Wayne Rooney has suggested that the FA should unless Pep Guardiola becomes available. Despite their semi-final exit, there are about their future prospects. Chris Sutton, a BBC Sport football expert, has made his predictions for the final and the third-place match. The tournament has seen Lionel Messi of all time, and Spain's success has been attributed to their elite defense, described as their "secret sauce" to suffocate opponents. For those just tuning in, highlights of the World Cup so far include Messi's heroics and underdog upsets, as well as brave performances from the USMNT. The tournament has also been a significant boon for beer sales in the U.S., with host cities reporting a 14% bump in sales during the first four weeks.

Club Transfers and Rumors

Arsenal are reportedly, while Mohamed Salah is rumored to be joining Besiktas. Manchester United are showing interest in Neco Williams. Kelechi Iheanacho has to join Bursaspor in Turkey's second tier. Leeds United have completed the signing of defender Tarik Muharemovic for £34.1m from Sassuolo in a significant move. Atlético Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has stated that Julián Álvarez will remain at the club next season, despite interest from Barcelona. In other transfer news, Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool.

MLS and US Soccer Developments

Paraag Marathe, president of 49ers Enterprises, is among the three finalists for the MLS commissioner position, succeeding Don Garber. Mauricio Pochettino is set to on his future as coach of the United States national team next week. Meanwhile, a sellout crowd at Citi Field for the Queens Classic, won by Gotham, indicates the for the team's move to the borough.

Golf and Other Sports News

Bryson DeChambeau received a during his second round at The Open due to a controversial ruling. Rory McIlroy is adopting an at Royal Birkdale, aiming to use his driver frequently to contend for the title. Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns have joined an exclusive club by recording a '62 round' in men's major golf at The 154th Open making history. In Formula, Kimi Antonelli was the, while Lewis Hamilton expressed hope that Ferrari can close the deficit to their rivals. In darts, Luke Humphries aims for a "dream draw" by facing Luke Littler in the World Matchplay final, stating that a win would put the sparkle on top.

Other Football News

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert revealed he received amid threats during the 'Spygate' scandal. Heart of Midlothian have announced the arrival of goalkeeper Beau Reus, with Alexander Schwolow departing as a replacement. Uefa has informed its VAR officials that they must not use the technology for diving incidents like those seen at the World Cup, stating they for simulation.