Midfielder Mikel Merino believes that shutting down Lionel Messi will be a "huge challenge" for the Spanish national team before their World Cup final clash against Argentina in 2026.

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, fans of the Tango nation are expressing almost absolute confidence in their national team's ability to secure victory.

On July 17, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) increased its number of sponsors from 5 to over 120 commercial partners in nine years, marking a powerful leap in brand and economic development driven by the global appeal of the Argentine national team, especially the image of captain Lionel Messi.

The 2026 ASEAN Cup is not only a stage for Vietnam to defend their championship but also a tournament that could see the explosion of a generation of naturalized players. Beyond Xuân Son, Hoàng Hên and Tài Lộc bring not only professional value but also a burning desire to contribute.

Striker Dinh Bac enters the 2026 ASEAN Cup with the momentum of an explosive end to the season with Hanoi Police Club. However, 10 goals in the 2025/26 V-League and the status of the best domestic striker are not enough to guarantee the 22-year-old a starting spot under coach Kim Sang Sik.

Hanoi Football Club has officially renewed the contract with midfielder Đỗ Hùng Dũng until 2028, securing one of the capital team's iconic figures.

The 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium (USA) promises many special and exciting moments. With their form and performances throughout the tournament, this clash is truly a "dream final" between two arch-rivals.

Reporter Lu Mi reports. After three consecutive losses and facing relegation pressure, with their last match postponed due to weather, Henan completely exploded against a depleted Qingdao Hainiu side, winning 5-1. This victory ended their losing streak and pushed them above Hainiu in the standings, offering a relatively safe position. Hainiu had a thin squad, with only seven substitutes available, while Henan started all their foreign players across the three lines, with Maranhao making his first CSL start.

Special correspondent/Song Ci, July 17, CSL Round 19: Guoan faced Tieren at Beijing Workers' Stadium. After 90 minutes of intense action, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, snapping Guoan's four-game winning streak across league and cup competitions.

Reporter Lu Mi reports: A 1-1 draw away against West Coast marked Rongcheng's third straight stalemate, slowing their momentum. However, their commanding lead remains so vast that no one doubts they will lose the league title. Yet the team's current form does require adjustment, particularly their finishing ability in front of goal. As a championship favorite, Rongcheng had long held the top spot in the league standings, with consistent results and a mature system in both attack and defense.