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Spain and Argentina clash in the World Cup final, with data favoring Spain's defense (0.3 goals conceded per game) against Argentina's potent attack (2.5 goals per game). Key battles include Yamal vs Tagliafico and Rodri vs Mac Allister. Predicted narrow win for Spain.

FBI seized over 700 illegal drones around 11 US stadiums during the World Cup, citing growing threats. Strict no-fly zones were enforced with heavy penalties, and anti-drone systems were deployed at all events.

If the Mavericks fail to find a suitable trade for Klay Thompson, his agent is expected to request a buyout. Currently, both the Heat and Thompson have mutual interest. After joining the Heat, Thompson could team up with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, and LeBron James could also become a part of the team.

The 2026 World Cup champion will be crowned on Sunday, with Spain vying for their second title and Argentina seeking to defend. FIFA has confirmed that any player listed on the official champion team roster is considered a World Cup champion, even if they have zero appearances throughout the tournament. Players who have yet to take the field in this edition: Spain's Grimaldo, Eric Garcia, Munoz, David Raya, and Joan Garcia; Argentina's Musso and Rulli.

On July 19, Cologne signed 18-year-old forward Regan Heskey from Manchester City for €2 million. The son of Liverpool legend Emile Heskey, he is seen as a potential successor to 19-year-old star El-Mara, who is valued at least €50 million and could leave soon.

German football legend Dietmar Hamann has called for a major squad overhaul after Germany's World Cup elimination by Paraguay. He demands that Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, and Leroy Sane be dropped, suggests Nico Schlotterbeck as captain and Felix Nmecha as a future core, and blames former coach Julian Nagelsmann for the early exit.

Turkish journalist yagosabuncuoglu revealed that Besiktas have reached an agreement with Mohamed Salah on financial terms. However, due to additional demands from the player's side, the contract has not yet been officially signed. Salah's lawyer has traveled to Dubai as planned, and will return to Istanbul if the process moves to medical examinations and contract signing.

Son Heung-min gave an interview after the Los Angeles Derby, stating that the result of accompanying the South Korean national team in the 2026 World Cup was regrettable, but due to his love for football, he was eager to return to the club after the match. After a brief adjustment, he focused on the derby against LA Galaxy, eager to play and secure victory, ultimately achieving a clean sheet and a big win. Son Heung-min was delighted to end his goal drought and believes this win will effectively boost confidence for the second half of the season.

Former South Korean international Ki Sung-yueng revealed on a TV show that after a match against Northern Ireland, staff members ate the gimbap prepared for players, including one person who ate three rolls. Angered by the loss and lack of food, Ki lost his temper, a reaction he now finds embarrassing.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta ended his US trip on July 19, meeting FIFA president Infantino and sensing his positive attitude towards the club. Laporta also held corridor talks with potential sponsors, with some showing interest, while Deco's team continues squad reinforcement within available conditions.

In the World Cup third-place match, France lost 4-6 to England. After the match, Kounde said he will first take a rest and then prepare for the new season with Barcelona, reaffirming his future at the club. He said he will rest fully to contribute to the 2026-27 season and hopes to help Barcelona with a great season.

According to The Athletic, Liverpool are close to signing 17-year-old Colombian attacking midfielder Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional for £750,000. The player has traveled to Merseyside to complete formalities but will officially join next summer. He will continue playing for Atletico Nacional in the new season, with Liverpool providing growth guidance over the next 12 months. Martinez helped Colombia win the South American U17 Championship in April this year and will also play in the U17 World Cup in November.

Argentina's government is evaluating declaring Monday a national holiday if the national team wins the World Cup final against Spain, similar to 2022. Cabinet chief Guillermo Francos said support is in place, but the celebration decision rests with the team.

Trabzonspor officially announced the permanent transfer of 25-year-old Turkish defender Ozcakar for a fee of €1.75 million. The player previously played for Valencia, making 46 appearances with 2 assists, and has a market value of €4 million.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that 30-year-old former Barcelona and AC Milan player Alen Halilovic is set to join Iranian giants Persepolis after leaving Eredivisie side Fortuna Sittard. Romano says negotiations are progressing well and a deal is imminent. Halilovic was once considered a rising star by Barcelona but never fully lived up to expectations. His career has included Dinamo Zagreb, among others.

Statistics show that in the past eight World Cups, except for 2014, the third-place team in each edition lost to the eventual champion in the semifinals. In 2014, the Netherlands lost to Argentina in the semifinals, with Argentina ultimately finishing as runners-up. The champions, runners-up, and third-place teams for each edition are as follows: 1994 Brazil, Italy, Sweden; 1998 France, Brazil, Croatia; 2002 Brazil, Germany, Turkey; 2006 Italy, France, Germany; 2010 Spain, Netherlands, Germany; 2014 Germany, Argentina, Netherlands; 2018 France, Croatia, Belgium; 2022 Argentina, France, Croatia.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano on July 19, Aston Villa and Chelsea have had contact in the past 24 hours, discussing several players including Nicolas Jackson. Unai Emery previously worked with Jackson at Villarreal and holds him in high regard. Additionally, Jackson was on Villa's transfer shortlist last summer.

At a New York event on July 18, Trae Young publicly tore a Jalen Brunson jersey, provoking outrage from Knicks fans and escalating their ongoing rivalry.

According to Romano, West Ham United has rejected Roma's €45 million offer for winger Summerville and set a €50 million valuation. Summerville is open to joining Roma and has spoken with Gasperini. Roma hopes to finalize the deal early next week, but Aston Villa's interest adds urgency.

ESPN Argentina's Leo Paradizo reports that Julian Alvarez and his camp are furious with Atletico Madrid CEO Gil Marin for publicly revealing Alvarez's wish to leave 48 hours before the World Cup final. They view this as a malicious act that has damaged relations. Alvarez may skip training and is determined to force a transfer.