Scott McTominay has been kept separate from the rest of the Scotland squad with the midfielder a doubt for their World Cup opener against Haiti.McTominay missed training on Thursday at Scotland’s base in Charlotte as he deals with an upset stomach, and was not on the team bus as it arrived at a hotel in Boston ahead of Saturday night’s fixture.The Napoli midfielder was instead accompanied by a doctor as a precautionary measure as Steve Clarke looks to avoid the possibility of the illness spreading through his squad.The 29-year-old shapes as a key figure at the World Cup as Clarke’s side look to navigate out of a tough group also including Brazil and Morocco.Fellow midfielder Kenny McLean is hopeful that McTominay will be able to feature as Scotland return to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.“Hopefully that doesn't spread,” McLean said of the illness. “Fingers crossed Scott will be fine. I'm sure he will be."I don't need to speak too much on him, everyone knows how big he is. It's a team effort and always will be, but when you have special, special players like that you want them to be available. I'm sure he will be."Scott McTominay is a key figure for Scotland (PA)The clash with Haiti at Boston Stadium in Foxborough will kick off in the early hours of Sunday morning Scottish time, though a healthy contingent of fans have travelled to the United States to support the side.Injured midfielder Billy Gilmour has also arrived in Boston to support the squad having had his hopes of featuring in the World Cup ended by a cruelly-timed injury sustained in the warm-up fixture against Curacao.“He obviously wants to experience things around the lads and also in and around the city with the fans and soak in the atmosphere,” McLean said."He deserves so much more but there is going to be so much more opportunity for Billy. I know it's not what he wants to hear right now but there will be."What an amazing talent, what an amazing young man and it will be good to see him."

Scotland face Morocco, Brazil and Haiti at the 2026 World Cup [Getty Images]After a 28-year absence from the World Cup finals, Scotland are back and will take on Brazil, Morocco and Haiti in the United States.It is a daunting task for Steve Clarke and his team, but the Tartan Army will travel with an American dream of progression after some positive warm-up performances.The Scots' chances are also boosted by the expanded format, in which even finishing third in Group C may be enough to advance.The eight best third-placed sides from the group stage will join the group winners and runners-up in the first knockout round.So could one win be enough for Scotland? Here's all you need to know.Inside the fairytale journey of Scotland captain RobertsonHow Scotland reached the World Cup - told by those who made it happenPatient, precise, clinical - are Scotland ready to make World Cup mark?Could one win be enough for Scotland?There are only four third-placed sides who will miss out on a place in the last 32 of the World Cup from the 12 groups.So all eyes will be on the game against Haiti, which Scotland must surely win to have a realistic chance of progressing from the group.Four points will almost certainly be enough to get through, but will three points suffice? Maybe, but goal difference would then be key.Looking back at recent World Cups and applying similar logic - but with three third-placed teams through in those cases - only in 2010 would four points have been required.2022: Four third-placed teams finished on three points. A goal difference of zero was needed.2018: Six third-placed teams had three points. A goal difference of -1 was needed.2014: Five third-placed teams had three points. A goal difference of -1 was required.2010: Four points would have been required.2006: Only one third-placed team earned more than three points. A goal difference of -2 was enough with three points.2002: Four teams gained three points or fewer. A goal difference of zero was needed.1998: Six third-placed teams gained more than three points. A goal difference of -5 would have been enough to advance.What about Scotland's opponents?So, the best chance of a Scotland win looks most likely to come in the opening game against Haiti.Ranked 83rd in the world, the Caribbean nation qualified for their first World Cup since 1974 by beating Nicaragua last month.Manager Sabastien Migne has been unable to set foot in Haiti since his appointment two years ago, as ongoing conflict in the country forces them to play their home matches 500 miles away in Curacao - an island nation just off the coast of Venezuela.Wolves midfielder Jean-Ricner Bellegarde is among their squad, which also features several players from Major League Soccer and European leagues.Morocco are the second seeds in the group. Ranked eighth in the world, they reached the semi-finals at the last World Cup and boast talents such as Paris Saint-Germain's Achraf Hakimi and Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz.They are also the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions after being declared winners of the 2025 tournament, following the Confederation of African Football's decision to overturn the final result because of Senegal's controversial walk-off.The Moroccans won all eight of their qualifying matches, scoring 22 goals and conceding just twice.Brazil stars such as Vinicius Junior and Gabriel need little introduction, nor does their manager Carlo Ancelotti.However, the five-time winners struggled in qualifying. They finished fifth in the 10-team South American section, losing six times - including a defeat by Bolivia, who were thumped 4-0 by Scotland in a friendly last weekend.So, if the Scots can beat Haiti and then secure either a point or a narrow defeat against the top two seeds, they stand a good chance of progressing to the last 32.Who could Scotland face in knockouts?Without getting too far ahead of ourselves, this is where things get a bit confusing.What we do know is if Scotland progress, they will play their first-ever knockout tie at a major finals on either 29 May, 30 May or 1 June (all BST).Let's get the most likely scenario out of the way first... If Scotland finish top of their group, they will face the runners-up from Group F (which includes the Netherlands, Japan, Sweden and Tunisia) in Houston on 29 May (18:00).Finishing second would mean a last-32 tie against the winners from the same group in Monterrey on 30 May (02:00).There are three different possibilities for a third-placed finish. These include returning to Boston to face the winners of Group E (top seeds are Germany) on 29 May (21:30), or taking on the winners of Group I (top seeds are France) in New York 24 hours later.The final option is a trip to Mexico City to meet the winners of Group A. Co-hosts Mexico are in that section, which also includes South Africa, South Korea and the Czech Republic.With so many permutations to be ironed out during the group stage, it could be a very short turnaround for Scotland between discovering their knockout opponents and their next destination if they finish third.What are the pundits saying?Former Scotland captain Scott Brown, speaking at time of draw: "We've got to look to beat Haiti, it will be a huge game for us. Morocco, we'll be underdogs from looking at the world rankings, it's a hard game."Brazil is the big one. Everyone will want to be at that Scotland v Brazil game. Seeing that yellow shirt, they've got top quality players. As do Morocco."We've got to beat Haiti and try to pick up points somewhere else. There is hope for us."Former Scotland forward James McFadden, speaking at time of draw: "It's a tough draw. You've got the glamour tie against Brazil. Then Morocco, people will tip them to be a dark horse because they got to a semi-final last time."And you hate to say it, because it's international football, but it's a winnable game against Haiti."It makes it a little bit better. If you finish third, it gives you an opportunity. We should be going to try to upset people, particularly Brazil and Morocco."World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Braves' Tyler Kinley details why Atlanta has best bullpen, led by Robert Suarez, Raisel Iglesias originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Atlanta Braves are still the best team in baseball, even after losing their last two games. For the most part, Atlanta has had tremendous success in all aspects of the game.A major strength for Atlanta has been the bullpen, which is the complete opposite of last season. The Braves lead the entire MLB in ERA, fueled by some of the most dominant arms in the league.“The relief corps possesses the best ERA in the league at 2.96. It’s the only sub-3.00 ERA. Many of the top relievers for ERA in the league are on the Braves staff: Robert Suarez (0.63), Raisel Iglesias (0.86), Dylan Lee (1.17) and Didier Fuentes (1.17). All four are in the top five in the statistical category, and the only non-Braves pitcher among them is Padres closer Mason Miller,” SI’s Harrison Smajovitts wrote.Braves manager Walt Weiss has done a great job managing the bullpen, creating a strong formula for success.“The Braves have leaned on different versions of that formula all year. Raisel Iglesias remains the closer. Robert Suarez has become one of manager Walt Weiss’ most trusted late-inning weapons. Lee continues to be the steady left-handed presence he has been for years. Fuentes has given Atlanta valuable flexibility, whether that means cleaning up traffic, covering length or handling leverage. And lately, the supporting cast has mattered just as much,” MLB.com’s Zach Sweet wrote.In a recent appearance on Foul Territory, Braves reliever Tyler Kinley spoke about the bullpen when asked how Atlanta has found so much success. His answer was simple and defining.“No egos,” Kinley said.That mindset has become the foundation of a bullpen filled with elite arms. Iglesias and Suarez have formed a dominant one-two punch, with Suarez recently shifting into a setup role behind Iglesias. Last season, Suarez led the National League in saves, but he has fully embraced his new role this year.Now, Iglesias handles the closer duties, while Suarez has accepted the setup job. Neither role is taken for granted—it’s all about winning. The Braves bullpen has become one of the most entertaining units in baseball, and their ability to celebrate each other’s success has been a major key to their dominance.More MLB news:Braves predicted to trade Ozzie Albies, top prospects for $4.2M dynamic NL rival All-StarBlue Jays all-in trade prediction sends top-100 prospects for $32M 2-time Cy Young winnerMets predicted to part ways with $15M 2-time All-Star, 74 strikeout arm at trade deadlinePhillies' $22M emergency closer gives brutally honest response to Rob Thomson's firing

2026 World Cup of Darts Day 2 live results, scores and group stage standings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The World Cup of Darts resumes on Friday, with 24 group-stage matches across the afternoon and evening sessions in Frankfurt on Day 2.After the evening session ends, an open draw will take place to determine the round two matchups for the countries that advanced.2026 World Cup of Darts Day 2 schedule & resultsHere is the schedule and results from Day 2.MORE: 2026 World Cup of Darts: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explainedAfternoon sessionMatchDateTime (local)ScoreIndia vs. Denmark (H)Fri., June. 1212:15 p.m.Croatia vs. Spain (K)Fri., June. 1212:35 p.m.Finland vs. Hungary (L)Fri., June. 121:00 p.m.Singapore vs. Gibraltar (D)Fri., June. 121:20 p.m.Portugal vs. Switzerland (E)Fri., June. 121:45 p.m.South Africa vs. Mongolia (F)Fri., June. 122:05 p.m.Italy vs. Trinidad & Tobago (J)Fri., June. 122:30 p.m.Belgium vs. Slovenia (B)Fri., June. 122:50 p.m.Philippines vs. New Zealand (A)Fri., June. 123:15 p.m.Lithuania vs. Thailand (C)Fri., June. 123:35 p.m.China vs. France (I)Fri., June. 124:00 p.m.Australia vs. Canada (G)Fri., June. 124:20 p.m.MORE: When do Luke Littler and Luke Humphries play for England at the 2026 World Cup of Darts?Evening sessionMatchDateTime (local)ScoreCzech Republic vs. Denmark (H)Fri., June. 127:15 p.m.Japan vs. Spain (K)Fri., June. 127:35 p.m.Norway vs. Hungary (L)Fri., June. 128:00 p.m.Ireland vs. Gibraltar (D)Fri., June. 128:20 p.m.Poland vs. Switzerland (E)Fri., June. 128:45 p.m.Sweden vs. Mongolia (F)Fri., June. 129:05 p.m.Latvia vs. Trinidad & Tobago (J)Fri., June. 129:30 p.m.Hong Kong vs. Slovenia (B)Fri., June. 129:50 p.m.Germany vs. New Zealand (A)Fri., June. 1210:15 p.m.Wales vs. Thailand (C)Fri., June. 1210:35 p.m.Austria vs. France (I)Fri., June. 1211:00 p.m.USA vs. Canada (G)Fri., June. 1211:20 p.m.2026 World Cup of Darts group stage standingsHere are the standings for the group stage.*The top country in each group will advance to the knockout stage, joining the four teams with a bye (England, Netherlands, Northern Ireland and Scotland)MORE:2026 World Cup of Darts group stage winner predictions and previews: Germany and Belgium in real dangerGroup APos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Germany(5)11040+422New Zealand00000003Philippines10104-40Group BPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Hong Kong11042+222Slovenia00000003Belgium (6)10124-20Group CPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Wales (7)11041+322Thailand00000003Lithuania10114-30Group DPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Ireland (8)11041+322Gibraltar00000003Singapore10114-30Group EPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Poland (9)11041+322Switzerland00000003Portugal10114-30Group FPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Sweden (10)11042+222Mongolia00000003South Africa10124-20Group GPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1United States11043+122Canada00000003Australia (11)10134-10Group HPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Czech Republic (12)11040+422Denmark00000003India10104-40Group IPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Austria (13)11041+322France00000003China10114-30Group JPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Latvia (14)11042+222Trinidad and Tobago00000003Italy10124-20Group KPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Japan11043+122Spain00000003Croatia (15)10134-10Group LPos.TeamPWLLFLA+/-Pts1Norway11043+122Hungary00000003Finland (16)10134-10More Darts articles:2026 World Cup of Darts confirmed pairs and countries: Wales loses Price, van Gerwen returns for Netherlands5 countries that can upset England's Luke Littler & Luke Humphries at 2026 World Cup of DartsLuke Littler contract details: Teenage phenom signs richest endorsement deal in darts historyHow much prize money did Luke Littler earn in the 2026 Premier League of Darts season?Gerwyn Price proposes intriguing Premier League Darts format change, with royal rumble component

Al-Hilal forward emerges as ‘low-cost’ option for Barcelona; player waiting for an offerBarcelona’s search for a new goalscorer could be taking an unexpected turn, with fresh reports suggesting Darwin Nunez has emerged as a potential alternative if the club fails to land its priority target this summer.According to Mundo Deportivo, the Uruguayan striker is aware that his name has been discussed within Barcelona’s hierarchy and is now waiting to discover whether the Catalan giants will make a concrete move.The development comes at a time when Barcelona are actively exploring options to strengthen their attack. While the club’s main objective remains securing a high-profile centre-forward, recent developments in the market may force sporting directors to consider alternative solutions.Barcelona exploring alternativesNunez is waiting for Barcelona. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)There has been little secret about Barcelona’s desire to bring in a new number nine ahead of the upcoming season.Julian Alvarez has been widely viewed as the dream target, with the Argentine possessing the profile, age and quality that perfectly fit the club’s long-term plans. However, the situation has become increasingly complicated following Real Madrid’s €150 million offer for the forward.With competition intensifying and financial limitations still influencing Barcelona’s transfer strategy, the club is examining more affordable options, which is where Nunez enters the conversation.The 26-year-old forward has appeared on Barcelona’s shortlist of alternative attacking targets, with his situation presenting a potential market opportunity should the club decide to accelerate discussions.Jorge Mendes talks bring Nunez into focusBarcelona have internally discussed Darwin Nunez. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)The report claims that Nunez’s name surfaced during conversations involving super-agent Jorge Mendes and Al-Hilal while discussions over Joao Cancelo were taking place.Sources cited by the outlet suggest the striker has already been informed that Barcelona have discussed his situation internally. As a result, he is now awaiting further developments while keeping his options open.His current circumstances could make a transfer easier than expected, as Nunez lost his licence to play in the Saudi Pro League following squad registration changes linked to Karim Benzema’s arrival at Al-Hilal.The striker is therefore monitoring potential opportunities, whether they come from Barcelona or other interested clubs.

Mexico opened the 2026 FIFA World Cup on 11 June in Mexico City under tight security after students and activists clashed with police near the stadium hosting the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. Demonstrators from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and other groups marched towards the venue, arguing that government resources devoted to the tournament should instead address social priorities. As fans arrived for the game, protesters attempted to move barricades and push through police lines, leading to confrontations around access routes to the stadium.Police in riot gear formed defensive cordons and moved to prevent demonstrators from reaching areas reserved for supporters. Some protesters threw stones and debris, while officers responded with crowd-control measures. Banners carried by participants criticised spending linked to the World Cup and highlighted concerns over inequality and unresolved disappearances in Mexico. Smoke and flares were visible near parts of the stadium perimeter, but authorities maintained control of the security zone. Despite the unrest, organisers confirmed that the opening match proceeded as scheduled, allowing the tournament to begin in front of thousands of spectators in the Mexican capital.

Newcastle braced for Lewis Hall bid from Man United after England snubNewcastle United are braced for a significant bid for wantaway defender Lewis Hall this summer.According to The Sun, Manchester United are plotting a ‘surprise move’ for the Newcastle left back, although it’s unclear how much the Magpies will demand.Newcastle are facing the prospect of being picked apart following a dismal campaign where they finished 12th in the Premier League table.Missing out on a place in Europe altogether has left the Newcastle squad agitated, and a couple of high-profile players have already been linked with summer exits.Hall is the latest Magpies star to be linked with a move away, and his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad could be the catalyst for a big-money switch.The ‘outstanding‘ defender wasn’t selected for the World Cup despite being a mainstay in Eddie Howe’s squad throughout the campaign.Hall reportedly believes a number of circumstances towards the end of the season may have affected his chances of making the trip to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.During Newcastle’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, Hall was deployed at right-back rather than in his natural position on the left.He was played out of position to cover for the injured Valentino Livramento, who, ironically, was named in Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup.Earlier in the campaign, he was also taken off at half-time during a defeat to Bournemouth before starting subsequent games against Arsenal and Brighton & Hove Albion on the bench.Those decisions came shortly before Tuchel finalised his England squad, and there’s a feeling that Man United are looking to pounce on his disappointment at missing the World Cup.Hall still has three years left on his contract with Newcastle, so the Magpies are under no immediate pressure to sell. But it’s believed the player is open to making the switch this summer.Hall made 47 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle during the 2025/26 campaign, and Man United believe he’d be an ideal long-term replacement for the ageing Luke Shaw.

The Bayern Insider: Karl transfer stance revealed as Olise and Ngumoha decisions madeWelcome to today’s exclusive & comprehensive round-up of all things Bayern Munich from Bayern insider Christian Falk. Featuring updates on Rio Ngumoha, Michael Olise, Lennart Karl, and Anthony Gordon.Today’s top storiesCould Rio Ngumoha sign for Bayern Munich this summer?How close are Bayern to signing Nathaniel Brown and Ismael Saibari?Is Lennart Karl at risk of signing for Barcelona?And plenty more on Tomas Araujo, Alphonso Davies, Luka Vuskovic & Min-jae KimBayern Munich’s bold play for Rio Ngumoha✅ It is TRUE: Bayern Munich were concretely interested in Rio Ngumoha. There were rumours that his brother, who is involved in his career around transfers, was at Säbener Straße for talks and signalled that the winger would be interested in going to Bayern Munich, and it would be no issue in sorting out contract details and the salary. FC Bayern had a very clear signal when they knocked on the door at Liverpool that there would be no time or reason for talks; there would be no negotiations. They’re so convinced about the player and his potential that they signalled he wouldn’t be sold. It won’t happen.Anthony Gordon’s mixed messagingThe problem with the Anthony Gordon transfer was that Bayern Munich held very concrete talks. There was an agreement with the player and agent side and Bayern, and in the talks, Gordon told the bosses that he’d love to join Bayern Munich and that they’d be his club. So, Bayern thought they had the Englishman’s word. Bayern didn’t want to offer as much money as other clubs and tried to pressure Newcastle to slightly lower the asking price. The idea was €60m [£51.7m]. Max Eberl wasn’t allowed to bid more. The thought was if the player only wants Bayern and Newcastle have to sell, perhaps they would adjust the price a little. But then they heard that Anthony Gordon was talking up Barcelona as his dream club. So, that’s why FC Bayern were really disappointed, as he told them the same thing! They’re not angry that the deal didn’t happen, as it was Bayern Munich’s decision not to bid €80m [£69m] or more – that was their decision. But they did think things could have panned out differently, given they thought they had Gordon’s word.Want more CF Bayern Insider coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustBayer Leverkusen win Kennet Eichhorn transfer raceIn my opinion, Leverkusen were always leading the race for Kennet Eichhorn. They were very concrete, even from the very beginning, and had no problem with his salary or the signing fee. The latter of which was a big discussion at Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund… perhaps not at Liverpool and Manchester City! Bayern said no and refused to pay €10m [£8.6m] or more for a signing fee for a 16-year-old player – they wouldn’t take the gamble. Dortmund came to the same conclusion. RB Leipzig were at the race, but this figure still represented a high amount for them. So, in the end, Leverkusen made the offer, and the player himself committed to staying in Germany to continue his early development. Perhaps the Premier League would be too big of a step this early in Eichhorn’s career, especially for a player coming from Germany’s second division with Hertha BSC.Leverkusen did it. Bayern Munich aren’t disappointed in this case, as they were fully informed on the conditions of the deal. They’re still Bayern, so if Kennet Eichhorn develops as is hoped in the next two years – and bear in mind they won’t pay a salary nor the price tag and signing fee – and then they later pay €40m-50m for him, that’s okay.Michael Olise and Florentino Perez’s pot of gold at Real MadridNot on the famous German festgeldkonto (so the Bayern Munich bank account is called in Germany in the Bundesliga). There is a lot of money on it, albeit not as much in recent years after the purchase of Harry Kane from Tottenham! Michael Olise falls into a similar bracket as the England captain. Simply, Bayern don’t feel they need to add money to the festgeldkonto by selling Olise. We spoke to Herbert Hainer, the president of Bayern Munich, and he told us it’s nice Real Madrid appreciate the right winger, but Florentino Perez can keep his money – he doesn’t need to make an offer. There’s no chance when it comes to Michael Olise. Forget about it. It’s just time he’d be losing. It’s worth noting that Hainer really enjoyed the lunch he held with Perez before the Champions League clash in Madrid, but there won’t be a deal for the Frenchman this summer.Bayern closing in on Nathaniel Brown and Ismael SaibariThe breaking news for FC Bayern: earlier this week we reported on the Nathaniel Brown talks. He’s here with us with the German national team. Frankfurt and Bayern Munich have an agreement. They want to pay about €60m for the player, which is a lot of money. Now there are talks as to how this money will be paid; will it be €50m at once, then €10m in add-ons? It’s not up for debate as to whether he’ll end up at Bayern – he will sign for Bayern Munich. The clear target for the club is that he signs before Germany’s first group stage match at the World Cup, as FC Bayern are worried that the fullback is playing so well he could get a lot more expensive. David Raum, who plays in this position (at left-back) with the German national team and is the captain at RB Leipzig, is out of the first-XI because of Brown’s positive performances. That means a lot.The situation with Saibari is similar. They’re not so far away in the negotiations with PSV. There’s an agreement with the player. I heard the deal is the idea of Vincent Kompany – he likes the player. Bayern Munich thought he would be a little cheaper, but it’s always the same when Bayern come to the table. The price just rises. Not to mention the fact that the Eredivisie club saw how much Bayern were prepared to pay Newcastle for Anthony Gordon. So, in the end, Bayern Munich, I heard, have a line they won’t cross (€50m). How they’ll handle this with add-ons isn’t, at the moment, clear to me. Perhaps it’s not clear in the negotiations either. Regardless, if the deal happens, it will be a record transfer in PSV’s history. I don’t think they will be so hardline as to say €60m or nothing. In the end, I think the deal will happen, but you never know, perhaps if another club is coming around, as we’ve already seen with Barcelona!Tomás Araújo still on Bayern Munich’s radar✅ It is TRUE: It’s no secret that Tomás Araújo has been on the list at Bayern Munich for years. Of course, he’s on the list with several other players, like Manchester City’s Joško Gvardiol. But the point is that Max Eberl has to sell players before looking to bring in a centre-back. If Saibari and Brown come on board – and I think they will work – there’s no plan for another deal. No deal, no transfer, not even a backup for Harry Kane. However, if Bayern sell one or another defender from the backline, Eberl will have money to invest in a new defender. Perhaps it will be Araújo, it could be Gvardiol, and there are other names on the list.Luka Vušković’s future at TottenhamLuka Vušković is really highly rated on Bayern Munich’s shortlist. In the past, there were talks with the defender’s management in terms of the possibility of signing him. But at the moment, Bayern are not in the driver’s seat. They can’t offer a concrete deal, as they don’t have enough money for another defender and they already have enough defenders themselves. Unless they sell someone, it’s getting difficult.Min-jae Kim to join Luciano Spalletti at Juventus?✅ It is TRUE: Luciano Spalletti would like to be reunited with Min-jae Kim at Juventus. The interest is confirmed. It’s not like there are really hot negotiations at the moment, but this could really happen. This would be ideal for Bayern Munich, as it would ensure they get the most amount of money – certainly more than they’d potentially receive for Hiroki Ito. So, if they could sell Kim, they’d likely have a good amount of money to put toward a really good new player, like, for example, Vušković.Givairo Read is still in the mix for Bayern Munich✅ It is TRUE: Givairo Read is still very much in Bayern’s thinking. He’s still on the list, but bear in mind that Nathaniel Brown’s arrival would complicate matters. The Frankfurt star will cost a lot of money, and he can also play at right-back and in central defence. At that point, there’s no money left for another player on the wings.Konrad Laimer approaching the finish line for a new contract✅ It is TRUE: Konrad Laimer is close to signing a contract extension at Bayern Munich. It’s clear that we’re heading in the direction of the Austrian getting a new deal. There were talks, so I think things look really good. When we’re talking about Laimer, I have to tell you about a story at the World Cup. The German national team is staying at the Graylyn Estate in North Carolina, and Laimer said his Bayern Munich colleagues are living in Hogwarts! He’s a little bit right, I have to say! It certainly has a touch of Harry Potter about it. Hopefully, it will lend them some magic at the World Cup!Alphonso Davies and Saudi Arabia interestThe Saudi interest in Alphonso Davies is still there, but it’s not like they’re putting a lot of oil money on the table before Bayern Munich. Bayern are still waiting for this moment. The difference now, of course, is that they would seriously consider an offer. Vincent Kompany was really keen on handing Davies a new contract with a lot of money. The idea was that, playing with a high line, the Canada international would be able to cover behind the defence, using his speed to kill off danger. However, his repeated injury issues mean that Bayern have been able to test this system and see that it works without the left-back. Bayern Munich have also come to the understanding that they need a new player for the position because of the injuries. So, it wouldn’t hurt them too much to sell Davies. Also partly because his salary (at €20m) is a lot of money for Bayern Munich. If they could take this out of the budget, it would make the club a lot happier.Barcelona are big fans of Lennart Karl❌ It is NOT TRUE: Barcelona want to sign Lennart Karl. It could very well be that there is interest and admiration of the German’s quality and potential. But Bayern Munich will not sell Karl. It’s such a pity that he’s injured at the moment. It was such a big surprise that he had a big chance to start in Germany’s first XI. Remember, one year ago, he wasn’t even in the squad at Bayern Munich; he was just a talent on the campus. So, it would have been lovely to see him at the World Cup. Now he’s injured and back at Säbener Straße for his medical checks and so on. But these medical checks are to get him fit again for Bayern Munich – not Barcelona.

Eredivisie players at the 2026 World Cup: StrikersThe 2026 World Cup has kicked off, with the Netherlands not starting their campaign until the weekend against Japan. However, plenty of Eredivisie players are set to be in action. We’ve looked at the goalkeepers, defenders and midfielders, now its the turn of the strikers. Wout Weghorst – NetherlandsA surprise addition to the Dutch squad given his form for Ajax, Wout Weghorst has long been a favourite of Dutch national team coaches. Despite only scoring nine goals this season in 34 games, Weghorst is once again off to a major tournament for Oranje. Ronald Koeman likes the different style that he can use with Weghorst who will likely have to make his impact off the bench. Weghorst will be hoping to add to his two World Cup goals from 2022. Guus Til – NetherlandsJoining Weghorst in the Oranje squad is PSV striker Guus Til. The 28-year-old had a great season for the Eredivisie champions, scoring 17 goals in 40 games, with seven assists as well. That means Til has now scored double figures in his last five seasons in the Eredivisie. At national level, Til has only played seven games with one goal. He has only made 15 minutes in the friendlies that the Dutch national team have played, so Til may have to bide his time for a World Cup appearance. Brandley Kuwas – CuracaoBrandley Kuwas suffered relegation with Volendam this season but had a decent Eredivisie campaign. The 33-year-old scored seven goals and provided five assists in 37 games for the side. His contract is up this summer, but for now he gets to enjoy Curacao’s debut World Cup campaign. Kuwas is likely to be an impact player off of the bench rather than a starter for the World Cup debutants. Ayase Ueda – Japan Ayase Ueda is likely to have the biggest impact out of any of the Eredivisie strikers at the World Cup. The former Cercle Brugge forward had a stellar seasons for Feyenoord, scoring 26 goals in 40 games for the side. His incredible form has attracted plenty of suitors, and this World Cup could be a moment for the Japanese forward to show the world what he can do. Japan have a strong squad, but Ueda’s goals could be crucial for helping them go far in the tournament. Esmir Bajraktarevic – Bosnia and Herzegovina21-year-old Bosnian striker Esmir Bajraktarevic had a decent first full season for the PSV senior side. The young forward, formerly of New England, returns to the USA for the World Cup having scored seven goals and provided four assists in 36 games. This is a decent return for a player that only started eight of his 28 Eredivisie appearances. Bajraktarevic had made an appearance for the USMNT as a youngster but has since switched to Bosnia and Herzegovina instead, who are set to play in their second World Cup as an independent nation. Ricardo Pepi – USARicardo Pepi may well be leaving PSV this summer for the Premier League. The 23-year-old USMNT striker has been linked with a move to Fulham after scoring 19 goals in 34 games, following up on his 17 goals in 28 games last season. Pepi will be part of a host nation that is under pressure to perform, especially with all the issues that the USA has experienced off the pitch around the World Cup and its organisation. With Florian Balogun in the side, Pepi is far from guaranteed a starting spot. He will have to earn it from the bench. GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson

Juventus could resume Vlahovic contract talks with CarnevaliWith Giovanni Carnevali replacing Damien Comolli as Juventus’ CEO, Gazzetta reports that the Bianconeri could resume contract talks with Dusan Vlahovic.Juventus are ready for a new revolution, as Comolli is expected to resign today at an extraordinary board of directors meeting.Juventus to make new Vlahovic attempt?The French director has only spent one season at the Allianz Stadium and will be replaced by Giovanni Carnevali.According to Gazzetta, the new director could resume contract talks with Vlahovic, whose deal in Turin expires at the end of June.Comolli failed to reach an agreement with Vlahovic, who was offered €6m per season plus bonuses.MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)TURIN, ITALY – MAY 24: Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus and Saul Coco of Torino battle for possession during the Serie A match between Torino FC and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on May 24, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)Vlahovic earned €12m including add-ons in his final season in Turin, and Kenan Yildiz will be the highest earner at the Allianz Stadium next season with a €7m-a-year salary if Vlahovic leaves.According to Gazzetta, Juventus remain interested in Alexander Sorloth, Randal Kolo Muani and Emiliano Martinez, while Tarik Muharemovic, a Juventus Academy product now at Sassuolo, might return to the Allianz Stadium and reunite with Carnevali.

The World Cup is here and with it, a tradition that has been carried out for half a century. Many in New Jersey and across the world participate in collecting stickers of players and teams participating in the FIFA World Cup.Panini, the Italian trading card company that has branches in the United States, continues to sell FIFA World Cup stickers. Panini has been selling World Cup stickers since 1970 as generations have participated in the collection.This year’s collection is the largest yet, mirroring the largest World Cup in history as the field has expanded from the usual 32 teams to 48 teams in the 2026 tournament. In order to complete the entire sticker collection, 980 are needed with an additional 12 to fill out the special Coca-Cola book.As the collections have increased, so have prices. The price for a pack, that contains seven stickers, costs $2 compared to $1 four years ago. The hobby can be costly, with collectors spending hundreds to even over a thousand dollars to complete the challenge of collecting every sticker. Collectors can buy in bulk, with a 50-pack costing $100.The sticker collection is a fun hobby for many but it is also used as a way to bring people together. The Panini subreddit current has over 300,000 members, with many showing off their collection. Others try to organize a meet up so collectors trade stickers, helping each other so they can each have them all.This year will one of the last for Panini's World Cup stickers. Starting in 2031, Fanatics will enter an agreement with FIFA to be the official sticker producing company for the World Cup.The future of the sticker company is also murky. Panini is considering selling the company, per reports from multiple news outlets. At the same time, Panini has a lawsuit against Fanatics, requesting the U.S. Supreme Court to “restore competition” through divesting all league licenses from Fanatics, according to a story from the Athletic.Uncertainty remains, but for now, sticker collecting is in full gear, as is the World Cup. Where to get Panini World Cup stickersHere are locations in New Jersey that sell Panini cards which are certified by Panini’s website.Razo’s Edge Cards: 10 Hillside Drive, FairfieldR.P. Specialty Sptscards Unlmt: 19 Wall Street, RockawayWow Sports Cards: 81 NJ-10, RandolphThe Hobby Hive: 30 Ridgedale Ave, East HanoverBob Beck Sports Collectibles: 48 East Northfield Road, LivingstonThe Baseball Card Store: 45 Prospect St, Midland ParkEast Coast Connection: 304 Ridge Road, LyndhurstCardVault by Tom Brady - American Dream: 1 American Dream Way, Concourse A, East RutherfordBodega Cards: 3563 John F Kennedy Blvd, Jersey CityBanker Bills collectables: 435 Amwell Rd , HillsboroughThe Hobby Shop: 077C Highway 34, Suite C, MatawanThe Backstop: 3400 Route 37E, 3400 Route 37, Toms RiverMonmouth Cards: 310 NJ-36, West Long BranchSantiago Sports: 419 Route 34, MatawanBob's Sports Cards & Memorabilia: 4138 Route 9 South, HowellThis article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Where to find Panini World Cup stickers in North Jersey

TORONTO – In the shadow of the CN Tower, the Yankees’ 2025 season changed course.Within a month, the Yankees dropped six of seven games to the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre, taking them from a 6.5-game AL East lead to a one-game deficit from June 3 to July 3.That helped cost the Yanks home field advantage in October, when Toronto outscored them here 23-8 in the first two games of the AL Division Series, on the way to a four-game win in that best-of-five.After splitting a four-game Bronx set with Toronto in May, the Yankees (41-26) arrive for this weekend’s three-game series atop the AL East, tied with Tampa Bay (40-25) while the defending AL champion Blue Jays (33-36) are in third place, nine games back.Despite some key injuries and a failure to gain any traction, “They’re still a great club,’’ said Yanks starter Carlos Rodon. “Playing in Toronto, it can be a different animal as well.“It’s a fun place to play, but they play well there,’’ Rodon said of the Jays, who are 20-16 at Rogers Centre this year, but 12-22 overall versus teams playing above .500.Of course, the Yankees arrive in Canada without the services of two-time reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge (stress fracture, first right rib), though they’re coming off an encouraging three-game sweep at Cleveland – knocking the Guardians out of first place in the AL Central.“Even on a day where we didn’t hit a homer, we managed to win,’’ said Jose Caballero of the Yanks’ resiliency, following Wednesday’s 8-4 win at Progressive Field.Here are a few things to watch this weekend at Toronto: Yankees' shortstop sagaEntering Wednesday’s sixth inning, Anthony Volpe was in a 1-for-24 slide before greeting Cleveland reliever Matt Festa with a sharp RBI double.Earlier in the game, Volpe committed a throwing error that did not lead to a run, but Volpe’s defense – and his current .194 batting average – are under constant scrutiny with Jose Caballero essentially back to being a utility player.“In a lot of ways, both deserve to be in there,’’ Aaron Boone said recently.That’s unsettling to large swaths of Yankees Universe after the manager’s initial take that Caballero wouldn’t lose the shortstop (providing an offensive spark, with solid defensive grades) due to a May 11-21 injury list stint (fractured right middle finger).Since Caballero’s return, he’s made five starts at shortstop to Volpe’s 11. In that span, Caballero has also made two starts at third base, one start in left field and four starts in right field – coinciding with Judge’s IL stint.This week at Cleveland, Boone categorized Volpe’s defense as “excellent. Feel like he’s made half a dozen or so pretty outstanding plays,’’ adding that his “at-bats have been OK.’’Meanwhile, Caballero nearly collided with Trent Grisham during a Wednesday afternoon play that was clearly the center fielder's ball, adding to questions about playing Caballero out of position and the commitment to Volpe at shortstop. Jasson Dominguez or Spencer Jones?Five weeks after spraining the AC joint of his left shoulder on a catch into the outfield wall, Jasson Dominguez could be ready for activation this weekend.Or the Yankees could choose to continue his minor league rehab or option him back to Triple-A. Late Wednesday, the Yankees were officially undecided on Dominguez's weekend status, or what that might mean for Spencer Jones, having more success in his second big-league tour this year. Jones' 443-foot home run Tuesday, the first of his MLB career, and he's 6-for-12 since being recalled last Friday, when Judge hit the IL. As part of his big-league prep, with Judge out for a significant stretch, Dominguez has started the last two games in right field, a new position for him, and the early reports of his comfort-level have been good. Giancarlo Stanton ramping upBack in New York, Giancarlo Stanton (strained right calf) is increasing his running program, and continues to take live BP. Boone suggested that Stanton could be a candidate for activation sometime during the Yankees' next homestand, beginning Tuesday and running through June 21. Stanton's return would provide more balance and power at DH to a Judge-less lineup, but his presence could also greatly diminish the playing time of Paul Goldschmidt, with Ben Rice splitting less time between first base and DH.Goldschmidt, 38, is coming off a terrific series both offensively (5-for-12, HR, 2 walks 4 RBI) and defensively at first base.Since May 9, Goldschmidt is batting .333 (31-for-91) with six homers, 21 RBI and a .968 OPS in 25 games. This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Yankees vs Blue Jays series preview, Anthony Volpe vs Jose Caballero

Reds' 28-year-old outfielder looks like a prime trade candidate originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Cincinnati Reds became the first team in the National League Central to fall under .500 on June 6 and are now dead last in the division (32-35).Sitting 9.5 games out and going 3-7 in their last 10 ballgames, the Reds will likely be sellers at the trade deadline (Aug. 3), especially since their ace Hunter Greene (right elbow surgery) is still not returning until July. The Cincinnati Reds have one asset that could be available at the trade deadline Among all the assets the Reds have available, the one player who could bring back a decent package is outfielder JJ Bleday. After getting designated for assignment by the Athletics in November, the Reds signed Bleday in December. Starting the season in Triple-A, the Reds called up the 28-year-old on April 25 and he hasn't looked back. In 39 games, Bleday is batting .270 with a .931 OPS, 11 home runs, 29 RBI and has walked 22 times (32 strikeouts) in 148 at-bats. More MLB News: Phillies' right field problem gets worse with Adolis Garcia's injuryA left-handed power bat that mashes right-handed pitching -- Bleday is batting .283 with a 1.019 OPS and nine home runs in 106 at-bats -- the former first-round pick (fourth overall by the Miami Marlins, 2019) could provide any team with a solid platoon bat. Another enticing thing that could help the Reds trade Bleday is that he's under contract for another two seasons and is owed $1.4 million this year. "Bleday is off to the best start of his five-year career, hitting 11 home runs with 29 RBIs and a .930 OPS in 39 games after spending the first month of the season at Triple-A," wrote MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. "The 28-year-old is earning $1.4 million this season and is under club control for two more seasons, and while he could be a key cog in the Reds’ lineup moving forward, he could also be an appealing trade chip if Cincinnati opts to be a seller this summer."Less than two months away, the Reds still have a chance to make a run. It isn't decided yet whether they'll sell or buy. More MLB News:Mets' Nolan McLean is a favorite to bring home some valuable hardwarePirates' Konnor Griffin is a favorite to bring home some valuable hardwareTigers' Kevin McGonigle has the best chance to win the AL ROTY AwardCardinals' JJ Wetherholt is the favorite to win some valuable hardwareWhite Sox's $8 million reliever could be on the bad side of a DFA

Tottenham handed massive boost in Guirassy race as agent denies Fenerbahce transfer agreementTottenham Hotspur have been handed a massive boost in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy this summer.After escaping relegation by the skin of their teeth, Tottenham have set out to restructure their squad ahead of the new season.They may not have Champions League football, but that hasn’t stopped the North Londoners, who have already announced the arrival of two defenders.Tottenham are now focusing on attacking areas and have set their sights on a proven goalscorer.There were reports that Guirassy could be on his way to Fenerbahce, but the player’s agent has shut down those rumours in a massive boost to Spurs.Guirassy is said to be ‘evaluating his options’ ahead of next season, opening the door for Tottenham to swoop in, although it’s poised to be an intriguing race for the 30-year-old striker.Speaking to Sky reporter Patrick Berger, the Guinea international’s brother and agent, Karamba Guirassy, made it clear that no agreement has been reached with any club.“To clarify: no agreement of any kind has been reached“, he said. “Serhou is currently evaluating his options for next season. Any claim of a verbal deal is simply not true.”While that comes as a huge relief for Tottenham, they still have their work cut out with half the clubs in Europe lining up to secure Guirassy’s signature.According to Berger, Aston Villa, AC Milan and Atlético Madrid are also monitoring the striker’s situation and are aware that he could be on the move this summer.Tottenham will need to act fast to jump ahead of the queue and secure his signature.Guirassy was in fine form for Dortmund last season, scoring 22 goals and chipping in with six assists in 46 games across all competitions.He scored 17 times in 33 Bundesliga games, helping Der BVB secure Champions League football with a second-place finish.His lethal goalscoring skills will come in handy at Tottenham, who are hoping to return to the upper echelons of Premier League football under Roberto De Zerbi next season.

How the latest football news can shake up the Premier League betting marketsFrom injury updates and transfer rumours to team form and managerial decisions, football news can quickly change the way fans look at Premier League betting. Understanding why these updates matter gives football supporters a better view of how the market moves.Football is a game where everything can change in an instant. A late goal, a red card or a surprise tactical move can turn things upside down. Off the pitch, you see that same unpredictability in the betting markets, with news updates playing a huge role in shaping what people expect.If you’re a fan who keeps a close eye on the Premier League, news isn’t just something to chat about before kickoff. It actually shapes how teams are perceived, what people think will happen and how betting odds shift. A big injury, a change in the starting lineup or a stretch of bad form can make the markets move even before the game starts.Now, with all the coverage out there, fans are surrounded by constant updates. The tricky part is figuring out which bits of news really matter, and how they affect betting decisions.How online platforms follow the changing football landscapeThese days, fans want everything in one place. Some online gambling sites offer a wide mix; sports betting, casino games, slots, live casino, table games, instant games, esports and even bingo. For example, a platform that covers all bases lets users play different games while keeping up with football news and events.For anyone focused on the sport, tracking updates is key to understanding the Premier League betting markets, including news, stats and match info, as it all shapes how fans tackle upcoming games.The point is, always approach betting with awareness. Football’s unpredictable, and even the most detailed analysis can’t guarantee what’ll happen.Why football news has such a big influence on betting marketsThe Premier League is one of the most watched leagues around, and every club gets totally scrutinised. That’s why even small updates can spark lots of conversation among fans and betting followers.Odds are all about expectations, and fresh news changes those expectations. Say a key striker is ruled out right before a big game; suddenly, people think the team is less likely to win, so the betting prices change.Good news has an effect, too. If a team brings back important players from injury or lands a strong new signing, everyone’s mood improves and expectations probably jump.Injuries, team news and the importance of timingInjuries are some of the biggest drivers in football betting. A Premier League squad might look solid overall, but missing a main player can seriously shake things up.A goalkeeper out injured affects the chances of a clean sheet. A midfielder sidelined impacts control in the middle. Without a striker, the team might struggle to create chances.And timing is huge. News that comes days before a game gives fans time to process and react, while updates right before kickoff spark quick action. That’s why people pay so much attention to team sheets and press conferences.Transfers and rumours create plenty of movementTransfer news is another area where football and betting markets collide. A new signing might turn a team’s prospects around, especially if that player’s meant to make a big impact right away.Maybe a club adds an experienced forward that lifts expectations on goals. Signing defenders? People assume the back line will be tighter.But not all rumours are worth betting on. Not every transfer happens and even if it does, not every signing makes a difference right away. Football is about team chemistry, tactics and confidence, so reputation alone doesn’t guarantee success.Form, managers and changing expectationsWhat a team’s been doing lately is crucial. When a club strings together wins, fans start backing them more. If they’re struggling, confidence drops.Managers also have a big say. When someone new steps in, tactics and formations can change and sometimes there’s an immediate lift. Other times, it just takes a while for things to come together.This constant shifting is part of football’s appeal. The Premier League rarely feels stable for long, and betting markets reflect those swings.Why football fans should pay attention to the newsFor most supporters, following football news is just part of being a fan. It adds depth to watching and helps you see what’s happening behind the scenes.In sports betting, staying up to date explains why opinions and odds shift. A sudden update about a player, manager or club gives you insight into those changes.It also makes the experience more interesting. Instead of focussing only on the league table, fans can look at the bigger story; morale, injuries, tactics and recent results, around each fixture. For fans interested in sports betting, understanding how news and betting odds are connected adds another layer to following the game.

“They told me that it wouldn’t have any effect” — Moyes insists Everton transfer plans stay on track despite Burnley verdict(Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)David Moyes has said that Everton's compensation payment to Burnley will not impact the club's transfer business this summer.Everton were this week ordered to pay Burnley a record-breaking compensation figure of around £35m, over breaches of the Premier League's Profit & Sustainability rules during the 2021/22 season.Despite the Toffees being deducted eight points for those breaches in 2023/24, Burnley lodged an appeal, arguing that the they would have avoided relegation had the points been deducted from the season in which the charges related to.Everton have appealed the verdict and released a statement expressing 'belief the ruling is fundamentally flawed in both law and fact'.Moyes discussed the decision on talkSPORT, where he expressed his disappointment. Questioned specifically whether the financial penalty would impact this summer's spending, the Scot insisted that he has received assurances from the board that it won't have 'any effect'."I’m not up to the situation exactly how it is and obviously the club are challenging it at the moment as well, which is really important, but it’s really disappointing," he said."I don’t know if this opens a huge can of worms with other events as well. Teams who have maybe not got promoted, for example, because the Premier League teams are having problems with PSR."I felt that we had paid our dues, if that’s right, and we had done it already, but for this to come back to us, it feels like an individual case."But I don’t know if it’s going to open up more things for other clubs to do something similar."Asked about the impact on the club's transfer business, Moyes added: "They told me no."They told me that it wouldn’t have any effect on it and look I was aware of this probably four or five weeks ago when it was happening that this would be the case."But I’m hoping that it doesn’t because last season, as you rightly say, we had a good season except the last month or so when we sort of blew up and we were in a really, really strong position."So if it’s anything I hope it’s a message to the Premier League. It’s so difficult. If you don’t do well you can find yourself in trouble again. We don’t want to be back in those situations we were in the past."My understanding is that the Friedkins were aware of this when they were buying the club and there was a possibility this could happen."So the answer to that is I really hope it has no effect on what we’re going to do in the summer."

A bitter blow: Liverpool now want star to stay but it might be too lateLiverpool now hope one star will stay at the club but is it too late?Liverpool have said goodbye to a few stars already ahead of the summer. Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson got their grand farewells on the final day of the season, and we've since seen Ibrahima Konate agree a move to Real Madrid.But the exits won't stop there. Liverpool will continue to reshape their squad and sign off on some difficult goodbyes.One of those could be Curtis Jones, who will enter the final year of his contract this summer. Jones was heavily linked with a move to Inter back in January - and the Italian champions remain interested in the Scouser.It seems that Liverpool were open to selling Jones, but now a report from the Athletic claims that's not necessarily the case. They'd like him to stay at the club beyond this summer.Is it too late, though? The only reason Jones wants out is that he doesn't believe there's a proper starting role for him at Liverpool. There's no question that he'd renew if he were granted that.But he certainly didn't have that under Arne Slot. He might find such a role under Andoni Iraola but he'd be taking a gamble on it.And that's why Liverpool may have left it too late here. Jones likely doesn't fancy gambling on actually playing regularly this season - even if he were given certain assurances over opportunities.Inter would promise him a starting role and there's little doubt about that. They wouldn't be pushing so hard to sign him otherwise.So there's a sense here that Liverpool may have waited too long to assure Jones of his role with a fresh contract. He still looks like a probable exit - even if the Reds aren't in favour of it.Curtis Jones: Situation Summary

People on motorcycles pass by a collapsed structure after an earthquake in General Santos, Philippines on Monday, June 8, 2026. (AP Photo)2026-06-12T06:46:41Z MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine officials said Friday that years of disaster-preparedness drills helped prevent a larger casualty toll when one of the strongest earthquakes in 50 years struck the south and left 55 people dead with 31 others missing.The 7.8 magnitude offshore quake, which struck Monday off Sarangani province, injured about 1,120 people and displaced more than 45,000 people, about half them still in emergency shelters, after the quake damaged more than 12,600 houses across farming towns and cities.Many were still too traumatized to return home because of strong aftershocks, officials said.Days after the earthquake hit, more videos of the chaotic moments have been posted on social media showing horrified crowds witnessing the collapse of small buildings, and flag-raising ceremonies turning chaotic when the ground started to shake on the first day of school after a long summer break. Students are seen on videos screaming in panic, but staying seated or standing still outside school buildings, with some covering their heads with their hands as teachers admonished them to calm down. One video, which has gone viral on Facebook with millions of views, showed dozens of grade-schoolers screaming and breaking into tears as they sat on a tree-ringed school ground, which visibly swayed them from side to side. A tin roof shed nearby later collapsed with a loud thud, prompting many to dash away, but were asked by teachers to return and stay seated. Read More The grade school in the coastal town of Malita in Davao Occidental province reported no injuries from the quake.“This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness and the value of regular disaster response drills,” the Mahayahay elementary school said in a statement.Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, said years of disaster-preparedness drills helped people anticipate and brace for extreme events like Monday’s quake, one of the strongest to hit the archipelago in a half-century. He said that it was also fortunate that the quake hit at 7:37 a.m., a few minutes before work and classes were to start indoors. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. “It’s good that our efforts to educate people on what to do when earthquakes hit somehow paid off,” Bacolcol told The Associated Press. He expressed concern, however, over the collapse of some buildings that he said should have withstood the powerful quake, if construction standards based on the country’s building code were followed.Ednar Dayanghirang, director of the Office of Civil Defense in a quake-hit region of about 5 million people, said that regular disaster-preparedness drills helped reduce casualties in many ways, including by preventing deadly stampedes.“We required all school principals to take one-day courses on incident management, then they appointed disaster-response teams among teachers to deal with earthquakes, tsunamis,” Dayanghirang said. “They listened and they learned.”The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, is often hit by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions because of its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an arc of seismic faults around the ocean. JIM GOMEZ Gomez is The AP Chief Correspondent in the Philippines. twitter mailto

How to watch World Cup highlights this summerThe 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in style on Thursday with co-hosts Mexico delighting a fanatical home crowd at a packed Azteca Stadium.Mexico’s win over South Africa was followed by an impressive South Korea performance, as the Asian outfit came from behind to beat Czechia in Guadalajaram, a fixture that took place in the UK’s early hours.Unsure how you can keep up to date with all the action in North America? Here are the details of how to watch World Cup highlights this summer.Is there a World Cup highlights show? How to watch the tournament.There is no official World Cup highlight show for the 2026 tournament, though you do not need to miss a single moment. The BBC and ITV have the rights to all 104 games in the UK and both broadcasters will provide highlights of every single fixture.Both ITV and the BBC are doing their utmost to avoid spoilers from the early hours (BST) fixtures. On ITV X and BBC iPlayer, the duo’s respective streaming sites, their pre-highlight thumbnails do not include the result or spoilers.ITV’s coverage can be accessed via the ITV X homepage, while BBC iPlayer has a specified World Cup hub.Both broadcasters will also release short-form highlights via YouTube. However, the thumbnails and headlines can often give away a clue as to how events unfolded, or even the result. As a rule, ITV tends to be a little safer as the result is not shown on the thumbnail.Where to watch World Cup highlightsThe BBC iPlayer’s World Cup hub can be found hereITV X’s World Cup highlights can be found hereRead – World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsSee more – 36 stats you should know ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

Chelsea defender promises tattoo of manager if Spain win World CupChelsea defender Marc Cucurella has boldly claimed that he will get a tattoo of head coach Luis de la Fuente’s face if Spain win the World Cup.Spain head into the 2026 tournament as one of the favourites, following their European Championship triumph in 2024. La Roja begin their campaign against Cape Verde on Monday, before meeting Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in the group stage.Spain are aiming to become only the second European team to win a World Cup outside of the continent, after Germany’s success in Brazil in 2014.Cucurella has claimed he will get a permanent tattooed tribute to head coach De La Fuente if Spain are successful.“If we win the World Cup, I would get a tattoo of Luis de la Fuente’s face!”, the left-back told Cope.Cucurella’s claim follows his promise to dye his famous long hair red in the aftermath of Spain’s Euro 2024 success. Though this promise feels a little braver…Read – How to watch World Cup highlights this summerSee more – World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsThe 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway after the opening fixtures of the tournament on Thursday.Co-hosts Mexico off to dream start against South AfricaFollowing a showbiz opening ceremony featuring Shakira and Burna Boy, co-hosts Mexico opened the tournament with a 2-0 win over South Korea. El Tri produced a professional performance at the historic Estadio Azteca, in a fixture that saw three red cards.Julián Quiñones, fresh from a prolific campaign in the Saudi Pro League, opened the scoring for Mexico inside nine minutes, as his effort squeezed under South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.South Africa struggled to create clear-cut opportunities and their challenge was all but ended when Yaya Sithole was sent off for a last-man challenge just five minutes into the second half.Raul Jimenez doubled Mexico’s lead on 67 minutes, as the veteran poacher headed home his first World Cup goal from close range. There was late drama as the officials handed out two contentious red cards, with Themba Zwane sent off for South Africa for a slap, reducing them to nine men. Then, in stoppage time, Mexico’s Cesar Montes became the third player dismissed for a late foul.South Korea fight back to over come CzechiaIn the second fixture of the group, South Korea staged a comeback to beat Czechia in Guadalajara.The Asian outfit dominated the opening exchanges, but conceded an opener against the run of play. A long throw from Vladimir Coufal was met emphatically by Czech captain Ladislav Krejčí to power Miroslav Koubek’s side ahead.South Korea kept on coming, however, and found an equaliser in style. The impressive Hwan In-beom showed brilliant composure to lift a finish over Matej Kovar and bring the Koreans level.South Korea dominated the possession (62%) and chances, and got a deserved winner through substitute Hyeon-guy Oh. The Besiktas striker steered in the winner to get Korea off to a winning start.Read – The best football kits we’ll see at FIFA World Cup 2026See more – 36 stats you should know ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

Gone are the days when World Cup games were littered with red cards. Or so we thought. Three reds were shown in the opener on Thursday as Mexico beat South Africa 2-0.South Africa's Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane were sent off, and then Mexico's Cesar Montes was dismissed in stoppage time. Maybe we had been spoiled. The World Cups in Russia and Qatar each had just four red cards. The 2026 tournament has nearly matched that already.It had been 20 years since three players were sent off in one match, in the 2006 finals when 28 players saw red overall.That was a remarkable tournament - with three players dismissed in three separate games, and the all-time record of four reds was set in the last-16 match between Portugal and the Netherlands.Are we about to go back to those days? Will the 2026 World Cup be remembered for red cards being thrown about like confetti? Sometimes red cards are simply justifiedYaya Sithole was the first player to be sent off when he brought down Brian Gutierrez [Getty Images]In 2017, Pierluigi Collina was appointed as Fifa's head of referees, heralding a new era.Collina often talks about how decisions should serve as justice - for both teams.Players should stay on the field unless they have done something which truly deserves a red card. For instance, under his stewardship the law around denying a goalscoring opportunity (Dogso) when a penalty has been awarded have been relaxed significantly, because the team is still getting a really good scoring opportunity. It is now very difficult to get a red card.So it should be no surprise that the 2018 and 2022 World Cups each produced just the four red cards. Refereeing at the start of a tournament often seem to sets the tone. Should we be drawing any conclusions from this match?In his pre-tournament briefing, the Italian was focused on timewasting and general player behaviour. There was no talk of tough stands being taken that would be likely to result in a huge spike in red cards. Sometimes red cards are simply justified. Well, most of them anyway.Sithole's dismissal for fouling Brian Gutierrez was a simple decision for referee Wilton Sampaio.The Mexico attacking midfielder was through on goal. Sithole may not have meant to bring him down, but he did. There was no doubt the South African had denied his opponent a clear goalscoring opportunity. The second dismissal was much more controversial, given to Zwane on a video assistant referee review for violent conduct. Zwane tussled with Roberto Alvarado, with the Mexican going to ground holding his head.It looked like a coming together off the ball, but the referee was sent to the pitchside screen by the video assistant referee (VAR), Colombia's Nicolas Gallo.As Sampaio was shown the replays at the monitor, it was difficult to make out what had happened. Was there really a hand to the head? And if so, was it accidental or did he swing the arm?When assessing violent conduct, the VARs are told to look for a clenched fist as a sign of aggression. This does not have to be present, but it is an indicator.Zwane appeared to connect with an open hand to the side of Alvarado's head, not with a closed hand. It looks exceptionally harsh, and not the kind of clear and obvious decision VAR was introduced for.Or maybe this is exactly the kind of thing Collina had told his referees and VARs to look out for, falling into the category of poor player behaviour.Collina has brought in red cards for players who cover their mouths in confrontations, and those who leave the field in protest at a decision. He also wants goals disallowed for blocking on set-pieces. Perhaps the actions of Zwane fall into this sort of category, a way for Collina to try to reduce the dark arts within the game. From near death to World Cup hero - Jimenez's tears for MexicoWorld Cup kicks off in Mexico with Shakira, performers and vibrant fansVAR, timewasting and subs - World Cup law changes explainedLet's not panic about the referees just yetThe third red card, again for Dogso, seemed controversial initially. Khuliso Mudau broke towards the area and looked to skip past Montes, but the South African was stopped in his tracks by a rash tackle.Mudau was in a slightly wide position so a yellow card seemed the most likely outcome. Sampaio produced the red. Surely the VAR would step in again?On second viewing it seemed very likely that Mudau's next touch would be to control the ball inside the area. There was no covering defender close.Mudau would probably have had one touch, and then a shot. The VAR was not likely to get involved and tell the referee he had made a clear and obvious error.An incident from the Premier League last season is a good comparison. It came in Crystal Palace's 3-3 draw with Bournemouth in October.Marcos Senesi brought down Ismaila Sarr, with the Palace striker moving into a similar position to Mudau. Referee Jarred Gillett produced the yellow card, but the VAR sent him to the screen to upgrade it to a red. Gillett rejected the review, but the Premier League's Key Match Incidents Panel voted that he was wrong. It should have been a red card.Maybe it provides an indication that Sampaio was right. His decision was certainly supportable.There was a law change this summer which did not get the same attention as some others. The wording to Dogso was slightly altered to say that a referee should take into account the position of other attackers, as well as defenders. As Mudau had a team-mate in the centre who he could have passed to, this can now be considered.It would be easy to say this World Cup is about to be blighted by referees throwing around red cards. There is a danger we fall into a trap, whereas this game may well prove just to be an outlier. A statistical anomaly across a 104-game tournament. The two on-field red cards probably were, on balance, both correct decisions.Let's not panic about the referees just yet.Play BBC Sport's new World Cup predictor gameWorld Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

The World Cup sees 48 nations divided into 12 groups for the first time in the tournament’s long history. Co-hosts Mexico, USA and Canada are the top seeds in Groups A, B and D respectively, while Scotland are in Group C with Brazil, Morocco and Haiti, and England are all the way down in Group L with Croatia, Ghana and Panama.Mexico's Raul Jimenez celebrates scoring their second goal at the World Cup 2026 (Reuters)The top two sides in each group will qualify for the World Cup’s first ever round of 32, as will the eighth best third-place teams. Just three points could be enough for some teams to reach the knockout stages.There will be 104 matches, up 40 since Qatar World Cup 2022, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo likely to play on this stage for the last time in their glittering careers.Here are all the fixtures, results and latest group standings:The World Cup began in Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium, the site of Diego Maradona’s most famous and infamous goals against England at the 1986 World Cup. It was also the venue for two classic World Cup finals: Brazil’s win over Italy in 1970 which included Carlos Alberto’s iconic team goal to cap a 4-1 win; and Argentina’s 3-2 win over West Germany in 1986, where Jorge Burruchaga grabbed an 84th-minute winner.Mexico and Canada will host 13 games in each, and the United States will host 78. From the quarter-finals onwards, the US will host all of the remaining matches, with the final in New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.

During this year’s IPL, 30 year-old Nikhil Chaudhary was travelling with Delhi Capitals as a net bowler, with an outside chance of landing a contract. He took a few days off to visit his family and childhood coach Charanjeet Bhangu in his hometown Ludhiana. Suddenly, he cut his India trip short, with a promise to his coach. “Sir, I have to join an Australian team camp. You’ll soon get some big news.”Chaudhary broke the big news to Bhangu on Thursday morning. He became the first India-born male cricketer in six decades to be named in an Australian international team as the selectors picked him as a leg-spinning allrounder to join the T20I team, currently playing in Bangladesh. Lisa Sthalekar, born in Pune, has already led Australia in women’s cricket.The selection was the latest milestone in an amazing journey for the Delhi-born Chaudhary, who played for Punjab for three years. In 2020, he was visiting his uncle in Queensland when the world went into lockdown due to Covid19. Unable to return, Chaudhary played some club matches in Brisbane as Australia eased restrictions. Soon, his talent got noticed. He hasn’t looked back since.In Jan 2017, Nikhil Chaudhary made his senior men’s T20 debut as a medium-pacer in a Punjab team which had a bowling attack of former India cricketers Harbhajan Singh, Sidharth Kaul, Sandeep Sharma and Gurkeerat Mann. In March that year, on his List A debut, he shared the dressing room with Yuvraj Singh. His phonebook still has the contact of India left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh. But he’s got his international call-up for Australia, with a stamp of permanent residency on his passport.After representing Punjab in 14 ListA matches, Chaudhary was staring at an uncertain future. The Covid lockdown actually turned into a blessing in disguise for him. “In those eight months, Nikhil played some club matches in Brisbane. Soon the people in the system started praising him. He called me and said he was liking the culture because he had spoken with immigrants. He said he wanted to stay back because people who matter were valuing his talent,” his childhood coach Charanjeet Bhangu told TOI .Chaudhary had to change his game inside out to fit in. “Cricketers overseas usually struggle against spin. Foreigners come to my academy to learn to play spin. But Nikhil was always versatile. When he first came to me at the age of 10, we made him bowl off-spin and bat. But there was intense competition for off-spinner’s spot in Punjab. So, when he grew older, he bowled medium-pace in-swingers. But he would also bowl leg-spin in Punjab nets,” said Bhangu.Once Chaudhary decided to stay back in Australia, he got down to doing odd jobs to make ends meet. He chopped veggies in a restaurant, drove cabs and even delivered parcels as he tried to make a mark in cricket in Tasmania.“He was convinced he could do something noteworthy in Australia. He always maintained a good diet but he was more than willing to embrace the food habits of that country, like the source of protein intake. Once the travel restrictions were completely lifted after two years, he came to me and spent two-and-a-half months working on his batting. In India, he was used to playing off the front foot more. Since then, he primarily comes to me to work on his batting,” said the proud coach.Chaudhary’s big break came when Hobart Hurricanes picked him for the Big Bash League in 2023. “Nikhil was so right about the sports culture there. He made it to the BBL in only three years,” the proud coach said. Chaudhary made an immediate impact in the BBL by winning a game with the bat, hitting Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf out of the park. His First-Class debut came last season and he took five wickets on debut against Queensland besides saving a match for Tasmania with the bat.“The panel has been impressed by his BBL form, particularly last season, leading to his addition to the squad,” selector Tony Dodemaide was quoted as saying by cricket. com. au . “He will be in contention to play his first game for Australia when we sit down to pick a team for the opening T20 fixture here next week,” he added. 131676429According to cricket. com. au, Australia has had several Indian-origin players feature in international cricket, including Gurinder Sandhu and Tanveer Sangha, but not since the 1960s (when Rex Sellars, a Gujarat-born legspinner, featured in the 1964 Calcutta Test) has an Indian-born man played for the national side.

The Oak Ridge High School Tennis Boosters recently hosted their annual awards banquet for the Wildcat and Lady Wildcat teams. Parents and players met at the First United Methodist Church on the Oak Ridge Turnpike to enjoy a dinner catered by Hibachi Pizza.ORHS coaches Joanne and David Bowman emceed the event, distributing academic and athletic awards earned by student-athletes during the tennis teams’ TSSAA District 3 competition.Six players were singled out for their outstanding performances during the 2026 spring season, according to a news release. For each of the last 12 years, the Bowmans have used player match results, team practice attendance/performance, and spectator observations of ORHS players’ on-court behavior/mental toughness to select three Wildcats and three Lady Wildcats to receive special awards.This article originally appeared on Oakridger: Oak Ridge High School tennis players honored at banquet

Registration is open for the Missisquoi Paddle-Pedal, set for July 11 in northern Vermont.The event combines 6.5 miles of paddling on the Missisquoi River with 5 miles of cycling on the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, according to a community announcement.Scholarships are available for residents of Franklin and Orleans counties.The event starts at 8:15 a.m. with a bike drop-off in East Berkshire and participant check-in at Davis Park. A safety talk is scheduled for 9:15 a.m., followed by the start of the race at 9:30 a.m. Most participants are expected to finish within two hours.Lunch is planned for noon, and an awards ceremony will begin at 12:45 p.m. The event will conclude with cleanup from 1:30 to 2 p.m., according to the announcement.The Missisquoi Paddle-Pedal offers several categories, including a three-person relay, a two-person relay and a recreational class open to any boat. There are also community team, high school, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, senior/junior and golden class categories.Participants must be at least 14 years old if no adult is present and must have parental consent if under 18. Coast Guard-approved, over-the-shoulder, correctly sized life jackets are required at all times while on the water.No alcohol will be allowed in any craft.The event is also seeking volunteers to assist with race timing, registration and staffing road crossings. Those interested in volunteering can email noah@northernforestcanoetrail.org for more information.To register or learn more about the event, visit northernforestcanoetrail.org/get-involved/events-activities/missisquoi-paddle-pedal.This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Sign-ups open for Vermont Missisquoi Paddle-Pedal race

Nat Sciver-Brunt's England begin the T20 World Cup on Friday against Sri Lanka at Edgbaston at 18:30 BST [Getty Images]Nat Sciver-Brunt might be struggling to win one World Cup this summer.In team-mate Issy Wong's football sweepstake, the England captain has drawn rank outsiders Curacao. Her prospects of success can surely only improve from there.Because as the football kicks into gear in North America, and while Ben Stokes' England captaincy future makes headlines at home, Sciver-Brunt's side open their home T20 World Cup against Sri Lanka on Friday at Edgbaston.With competition for eyeballs fierce, this is a significant moment for the England team and cricket more widely in the UK.A shock group-stage exit? T20 World Cup team guideEngland's iconic 2017 World Cup win in their own wordsIt is 15 months since England turned to Charlotte Edwards, and in turn Sciver-Brunt, and we should not downplay the difficulty of the task the coach and captain are facing.England have won all four Women's World Cups held in their home country, in a run going back to 1973. But they have failed to win any of the past six, spanning the T20 and 50-over formats.Missing out on a medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and five failures to win back the Ashes add to what has been a barren spell for England's women's side.The talk across recent months has been of hopes to follow the success of England's Lionesses and Red Roses, who won football and rugby union tournaments at home in 2022 and 2025.There were major obstacles in the way of those trophy lifts, but perhaps not quite as daunting as overcoming Australia's conveyor belt of female cricketers, the financial might and talent pool of India, or South Africa, who have reached three world finals in a row and believe their time is now.This will be anything but straightforward.All you need to know about the Women's T20 World CupWomen's T20 World Cup schedule, fixtures, times & resultsThere remains a growing sense of momentum around this England side, however.Edwards, the iconic captain brutally dropped before the last World Cup on these shores, has calmly dealt with the fitness questions which dogged the final months of the Jon Lewis regime since answering England's SOS call in the aftermath of the 2024-25 Ashes whitewash.There was the underwhelming 50-over World Cup last autumn, but recent series wins over New Zealand and India have boosted both expectation and confidence.Over the space of six matches in May and early June, Alice Capsey moved from spare batter to middle-order linchpin, and Wednesday's fifty for Sciver-Brunt after six weeks out with a calf injury was another timely boost.Seam bowling all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson, the two most significant additions from last year's 50-over exit, have also added a freshness and balance to this side.Kemp's 39 not out from 13 balls against India in Bristol, which came with England 1-0 down in the series and at 117-4 in the 17th over, could yet be a sliding doors moment to look back on.From that position of strife, England levelled the series and then impressively won it in Taunton.The next question is whether that is another false dawn, one similar to other bilateral wins which were followed by failings when the World Cup crunch came, or something more permanent.More broadly, this tournament comes at a fascinating time for the women's game.Scotland have qualified for the second time and are eyeing a first win on this stage, having beaten Pakistan and Bangladesh in recent warm-ups. Ireland, too, beat Pakistan, Bangladesh and West Indies.Both are in England's group, along with the Windies, Sri Lanka and New Zealand, and upsets feel possible.Emotion can also be expected over the coming weeks, with the White Ferns' great all-rounder Suzie Bates having already confirmed this month will signal the end of her international career. Australian icon Alyssa Healy retired this year earlier.Could former England captain Heather Knight, already looking to the future with a management role in The Hundred, follow their lead? A changing of the guard feels close.Success this summer would be a fitting final act for Knight, who has been a seismic figure in the modern game.She led England to victory in the Lord's final of 2017, but the group stage of that tournament was held in Leicester, Derby, Taunton and Bristol.This year, Bristol remains but is joined by fellow host grounds Lord's, The Oval, Old Trafford, Headingley, Southampton and Edgbaston – some of the most famous and largest cricket venues in the country.Those venues reflect the epic growth of the women's game across Knight's career but also present a challenge for the tournament.While ticket sales passed the previous best for a Women's T20 World Cup – the 136,549 sold for the 2020 edition in Australia – more than a month before a ball was bowled, empty seats could still be a talking point at some games.Organisers still hope this tournament can cut through into the public consciousness to inspire a generation, in the way the victories of the Lionesses and Red Roses have done before.England will look to hit the ground running to draw an initial surge of interest."There's extra pressure from everywhere," Sciver-Brunt said on Thursday."Being the host nation, my first home World Cup leading, the Lionesses and the Red Roses doing such a brilliant job in their tournaments in the last few years, the state of women's cricket, the list goes on in terms of where you could add up the pressure."I guess we're sat here feeling that pressure is a privilege, we're at a time in the world where women's cricket is waiting for a platform to expand and explode."English cricket failed to truly capitalise on Knight's 2017 win.Full-time domestic contracts were still three years away and the stage offered by The Hundred did not arrive until 2021.As Sciver-Brunt says, the platform is there this time. This is a crucial opportunity for the game to make the most of it.Self-doubt to the summit - the rise of England's SmithEngland will not enforce World Cup social media ban

Dodgers' Dave Roberts downplays Shohei Ohtani injury, ESPN insider reveals alarming knee history originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Los Angeles Dodgers grew concerned Thursday night when Shohei Ohtani was removed from the game with a knee issue. Ohtani has been dominant of late, both on the mound and at the plate.There is belief that the injury is not serious, but the Dodgers are being cautious. Manager Dave Roberts described the decision as precautionary.“We tried to be smart about it and get him out of the game,” Roberts said. “He told the trainer that he felt a little something behind his knee, and I just didn’t see any sense in risking it.”That is good news for the Dodgers, but it is still something to monitor. ESPN’s Alden Gonzales noted that Ohtani does have a knee history worth watching.“Shohei Ohtani exited today’s game with what the team described as left knee inflammation, and though Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters in Pittsburgh he expects him back in the lineup as early as tomorrow, it’s worth noting his history with that left knee,” Gonzales posted.That history includes a rare knee condition discovered in 2019 that sidelined Ohtani for a significant portion of that season.“Shohei Ohtani has a knee condition that is present in about 2 percent of the population and recently began to hinder him off the mound. He'll have it surgically repaired tomorrow, then resume the final stages of his 2019 throwing program in 10 weeks,” Gonzales posted.While nothing of that severity has been reported this time, it is still something worth keeping an eye on. The Dodgers do not want to lose Ohtani, so they will continue to monitor the situation closely.Ohtani has been a major part of the Dodgers’ success, and while this is likely something minor that will heal quickly, any mention of that knee condition is concerning. The Dodgers have yet to go an extended stretch without him in the lineup, which would make any absence a difficult adjustment.More MLB news:Braves' Tyler Kinley details why Atlanta has best bullpen, led by Robert Suarez, Raisel IglesiasBraves predicted to trade Ozzie Albies, top prospects for $4.2M dynamic NL rival All-StarBlue Jays all-in trade prediction sends top-100 prospects for $32M 2-time Cy Young winnerMets predicted to part ways with $15M 2-time All-Star, 74 strikeout arm at trade deadline

Cengiz Yar/ProPublica. Source images: Wikimedia Commons, Getty Images, documents obtained by ProPublica. For more than a decade, Dr. Joseph Mercola cautioned parents against a potentially lifesaving shot of vitamin K for their newborn babies: “Vitamin K shots are completely unnecessary for your newborn.” But now, in a break from his past warnings, Mercola is saying he no longer believes that. ProPublica contacted Mercola recently as it was preparing an article about babies who died as a result of their parents turning down the vitamin K shot. Mercola’s new point of view is just as unequivocal as his old one: “The data is clear: vitamin K saves lives,” he wrote in an April article on his website two days after ProPublica contacted him. He added: “Based on the totality of the published evidence, I support vitamin K prophylaxis for all newborns.” He also directed parents to speak to their children’s pediatricians. “Vitamin K deficiency bleeding is rare, but when it occurs, the consequences can be devastating and irreversible,” Mercola wrote. “A single injection at birth can prevent it. Please talk to your doctor.” Mercola is a leading vaccine skeptic and an ardent supporter of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. He is a popular figure online, with a Facebook page that has some 1.7 million followers. He sends out a daily newsletter and sells alternative treatments for a variety of ailments. His reversal comes at a critical moment. Hospitals and research studies have documented an alarming jump in babies not receiving the vitamin K shot, which has been recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics since 1961 to help newborns’ blood to clot. Without it, research shows, babies are 81 times more at risk for late vitamin K deficiency bleeding, which can be fatal. Just as has happened with measles and other vaccines, vitamin K shots have become the target of a deluge of false information online. That has caused some parents to view it as an unnecessary pharmaceutical intervention amid a lingering mistrust of the medical system following the COVID-19 pandemic. Some point to a 2010 post from Mercola, entitled “The Dark Side of the Routine Newborn Vitamin K Shot.” A doctor in Tennessee recalled reluctant families citing the article, as did doctors in Oregon. In the years that followed, Mercola stood by his opposition. He reiterated his position in 2014, after four babies in Nashville, Tennessee, suffered vitamin K deficiency bleeding. And he did so again in 2019, after hospital staff contacted child protective services in Illinois and took temporary custody of a newborn whose parents refused the shot for their baby. In place of the shot, Mercola had recommended vitamin K drops, which are taken orally and have been touted online as a popular alternative. The drops, however, are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and research shows they are not as effective as the shot, though they are used in some European countries. In his April article, he addressed the rampant false information online regarding the vitamin K shot and acknowledged the role his writing may have played in spreading it. “The internet contains a significant amount of misinformation about vitamin K,” Mercola wrote. “Some of it may reference my own 2010 article. That article reflected the state of a scientific debate that has since been resolved. The science moved forward, and so have I.” Dr. Joseph Mercola published an article on his website saying he’d changed his views on vitamin K. He now says vitamin K shots are the “prudent choice” and he encourages parents to consult their pediatrician. Mercola.com, highlighted by ProPublica In fact, the science around the vitamin K shot has been settled for decades. The discovery of vitamin K and its role in clotting blood won the Nobel Prize in 1943. Newer studies have confirmed and furthered many of the findings that were available in 2010, but they do not represent a scientific shift from previous research. Some recent studies that Mercola cited in the April article document the rise in babies not receiving the shot and the catastrophic bleeding in the brain that can follow, but again both reinforce the same science that has encouraged giving the shot for more than 60 years. In Mercola’s earlier posts, he wrote about what he deemed to be risks from the shot, beginning with “inappropriate” and “unnecessary” pain to the baby. He incorrectly claimed that the amount of vitamin K injected into newborns was far more than the needed dose. In addition, he wrote that the shot may contain preservatives that can be “toxic” to a baby’s immune system. Benzyl alcohol is often used as a preservative in vitamin K shots, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other organizations have stressed that it’s safe. In the 1980s, doctors realized that some extremely premature babies suffered benzyl alcohol toxicity, but, according to the CDC, that was because they were on so many medications containing it. In addition, many hospitals now offer preservative-free options. Some families have also expressed fear about a “black box warning,” which appears on a drug’s label to alert providers of serious risks. The shot does contain a boxed warning, as do more than 400 other medications, but that is primarily related to adults and vitamin K that is given through an IV, not as a shot in the thigh muscle, which is how doctors typically administer vitamin K to babies. None of the dozens of doctors interviewed by ProPublica said they have ever seen an adverse reaction in an infant who received a vitamin K shot. Read More Babies Are Bleeding to Death as Parents Reject a Vitamin Shot Given at Birth But even back in 2010, Mercola dispelled one popular misconception that vitamin K injections increased the risk of cancer. That belief stemmed from a pair of older refuted studies. In 2010, he wrote, “that conclusion was in error.” In April, he reinforced that message. Alternative treatments promoted by Mercola have attracted federal scrutiny. He and his companies have had to pay millions of dollars to settle allegations that he had made false claims about the safety of products. During the pandemic, for instance, the FDA sent Mercola a warning letter after he offered unapproved and misbranded products, including vitamin C, on his website as ways to prevent or treat COVID-19. In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission announced it was mailing $2.59 million to people who bought Mercola indoor tanning systems. The agency charged that Mercola and his companies claimed the tanning systems were safe and that research showed that indoor tanning doesn’t raise the risk of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Mercola did not admit wrongdoing. His online posts include a disclaimer that they are intended as a way of sharing knowledge and information, not medical advice. He also has said his 2010 vitamin K article was based on an interview with a Dutch researcher who studied vitamin K. Mercola, a doctor of osteopathic medicine, declined to be interviewed for this story but said his current stance is accurately reflected in the April article. “While I do not agree with all of the characterizations and conclusions in your summary,” he wrote in response to questions from ProPublica, “I have nothing further to add at this time.” Even though Mercola has now reversed his position on vitamin K, many on social media still cling to debunked and distorted claims. On Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, unsubstantiated claims often go unchecked. One theme that has emerged on social media is the notion that God created babies perfectly, and there must be a reason they are born without sufficient vitamin K. In one video on TikTok, a woman who identifies herself as a nurse asked, “Did God really get it wrong?” Responding to another, someone wrote, “Just know our creator didn’t make a mistake. Every baby is born like this for a reason.” Others lump the vitamin K shot, which is not a vaccine, in with vaccines. A comment on a video about the vitamin K shot declared, “My baby isn’t getting any vaccines.” It received more than 600 likes. Mercola also is not the only doctor being cited by vitamin K shot opponents. Commenters on Instagram, TikTok and Reddit have directed people to Dr. Suzanne Humphries, who has spoken out about vaccines and the vitamin K shot for many years. “My opinion is that the more I read about vitamin K,” she said in a video posted in 2014, “the more I can’t believe that it’s injected into newborn infants.” Last month, she appeared in a lengthy interview on the website of Children’s Health Defense, the anti-vaccine nonprofit founded by Kennedy. She cited the pair of studies from more than 30 years ago that found an association between the shot and cancer, though they were both called into question shortly after they were published. As even Mercola noted in 2010, several additional studies found no increased risk of cancer following the shot. “Those of us that believe in a divine creator,” she said, “believe that maybe it is by design, or that actually it is by design, and that there’s a reason for it.” Humphries did not respond to requests for comment. During Kennedy’s time at Children’s Health Defense, the group published a post in 2020 that claimed aluminum adjuvants — added components that boost the body’s immune response — in vaccines are “significant sources of early exposure” to aluminum. Some vitamin K shots contain a small amount of aluminum, but studies have not found any evidence of serious or long-lasting harm. Adjuvants, according to the CDC, have been used “safely in vaccines for decades.” Brian Hooker, chief scientific officer at Children’s Health Defense, said the aluminum concern remains, as does the cancer fear, despite multiple studies that found no basis for them. He said he would like to see more research on the vitamin K shot, as well as other newborn interventions like the hepatitis B vaccine. “I do want to look at the individual components of these shots in conjunction with everything else that the infant is getting,” he said, “and to me that body of literature is really incomplete.” Hooker said he worked with Kennedy for many years and, while they are no longer in direct contact, he has full confidence in the country’s leading federal health official. But Kennedy’s silence has served to deepen skepticism among experts. “Now we’re starting to see something that I never saw, which was brain bleeds and gut bleeds in infants,” said Rep. Kim Schrier, a Washington Democrat who worked as a pediatrician for more than 15 years before running for Congress. “And that’s so scary and heartbreaking.” At an April House subcommittee hearing, Schrier confronted Kennedy about vitamin K, saying that he made parents distrust doctors and shots, and as a result some parents are refusing the vitamin K shot and other standard care. “Right now, Secretary Kennedy, given what I just told you about vitamin K, will you just tell pregnant women out there for the record, ‘Yes, you should get your babies the vitamin K shot’?” Schrier asked Kennedy. Kennedy did not oblige her. He said he has never said anything about the vitamin K shot. An HHS spokesperson did not answer ProPublica’s questions but said the CDC recommends that parents give newborns the vitamin K shot within 6 hours of their birth to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding. She acknowledged that uptake of the shot has declined during recent years “as public trust in health care institutions has fallen, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic amid heavy-handed mandates and inconsistent messaging during the Biden administration.” “Rebuilding that trust,” the spokesperson wrote in an email, “requires honesty, informed consent, and respect for individual choice.” Schrier said she empathizes with parents who are inundated with so many conflicting messages. She said she recently stepped out of the Capitol building and overheard a woman say — inaccurately — that every childhood vaccine contains glyphosate, which was an ingredient in some forms of the weed killer Roundup. “I can just see how this is going to spiral right now. It gets out there, then it’s on social media,” Schrier said. “Every parent just doesn’t want to do the wrong thing.” Do You Have Information About Parents Declining Vitamin K Shots? I want to understand more about why families decline a vitamin K shot. I know how difficult it is to talk about losing a child and how hard it can be to process this kind of grief. Words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. ProPublica’s goal is to give the public the best, most trustworthy information. If you have a story to share, I hope you will reach out to me when you’re ready. Duaa Eldeib Send me your tips, stories and documents. Reach me by email or securely on Signal at 312-730-4797. I take the protection of my sources extremely seriously. Contact Me The post A Popular Doctor Had Long Warned That Vitamin K Shots Are Risky for Newborns. Now He’s Changed His Tune. appeared first on ProPublica.

The inanity of the leftists who’d censor such a film shouldn’t distract us from the right-wing nightmare it reveals.

The SpaceX I.P.O. will enable its founder to build — and scale — his peculiar vision of society.

Congratulations to Appoquinimink girls soccer, the Delaware Online High School Sports Team of the Week for Week 11 of the spring sports season.Appoquinimink defeated Odessa 3-0 in the DIAA Division I Girls Soccer Championship.Appoquinimink won an online vote over four other teams.Brandon Holveck reports on high school sports for The News Journal. Contact him at bholveck@delawareonline.com.This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware Online High School Team of the Week is Appoquinimink girls soccer

The home run rate? Down. The walk rate? Down.The strikeout rate? Well, that's also down, but that might not be a problem for Detroit Tigers pitcher Keider Montero.And with the young right-hander throwing as well as he is, the Tigers have a tough decision ahead of them.THURSDAY'S ACTION: Detroit Tigers win third straight series behind offensive blastsThe Tigers beat the Minnesota Twins, 11-0, at Comerica Park on Thursday, June 11, with Montero pitching 6⅓ shutout innings in one of his best performances of the year. Montero's final line reflected the trends he has been showing at his best all season, with 10 fly outs to four strikeouts in a remarkably efficient performance from the starter."He was excellent," Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said of Montero. "He gave us everything he could. The stuff was excellent and the execution got better in typical Keider fashion."Montero lowered his season ERA Thursday from 3.95 to 3.61 – third-best among Tigers starters and the lowest of any Tiger with at least 60 innings pitched. And with Montero putting up more quality starts as the season has progressed, he has made his case to stay in a strengthening Tigers rotation.But will the Tigers have room for him?Keider Montero having a career yearBefore we answer that question, let's start with how Montero got here.Montero had mixed results as a spot-starter in his first two seasons with the Tigers, going 11-9 with a 4.57 ERA over 189 innings pitched. He had better results out of the bullpen in the postseason in both 2024 and 2025, but wasn't one of the starting five out of spring training this year, thanks to the additions, just before camp began, of left-hander Framber Valdez and right-hander Justin Verlander.But then the 43-year-old Verlander got hurt after his first start, forcing Montero into action from the jump. And he has delivered, lowering his home run rate from 2025 to 2026 from 1.59 per nine innings to 1.09 (with an MLB average of 1.12), lowering his walk rate from 8% to 6.1% (MLB average is 8.5%) and raising his fly ball percentage from 37.9% to 52.5% (MLB average is 39.2%).Translation – he's getting more easy outs for his defense without giving up the long ball. And with improvements in his control, his seat in the rotation has gotten much more secure. Improving control to get better resultsMontero hasn't made significant changes to his velocity or movement on his pitches, relying heavily on his two fastballs (four-seamer and sinker) each of the last two seasons. But what has changed is his command, getting more refined in 2026 and getting better results."He's becoming a more well-rounded pitcher," Hinch said. "Early on as a young pitcher ... he would try to get after it by throwing the ball in the big part of the zone. You want strike-throwers, but then you start to refine it, you start to use your pitches correctly, you start to gain confidence in more than one way to get hitters out."Montero acknowledges he has been working a lot on his control (while also crediting his work with Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic for ramping up his effectiveness early in the season), and he feels thankful that the work has turned into positive results."It has been [dotting] the strike zone, not just in the same zone," he said. "Looking upside, downside, left, inner, inside and outside, everywhere, so I can attack every area of the strike zone."One casualty of the new-and-improved Montero is his strikeout rate, which has fallen from 18.5% in 2025 to 16.7% in 2026 (with an MLB average of 21.8%). But if Montero can force weak contact earlier in at-bats instead of going deeper into counts looking for a punch out, he can get similar results on fewer pitches, something the Tigers could greatly benefit from."That's how you last deeper into games or face guys a second or a third time [through the order]," said Hinch.That was the version of Montero the Tigers got Thursday – one that could play a huge role on a team attempting to claw its way back to the American League wild-card chase.Except Montero, through little fault of his own, might be the odd person out.Can Montero stick in the rotation?With Tigers ace Tarik Skubal set to return on Saturday and All-Star righty Casey Mize potentially returning on Sunday, a six-man rotation may not even be big enough to fit Montero with Valdez, righty Jack Flaherty, righty Troy Melton and righty Ty Madden all healthy and available to start.That's not to mention Verlander, who just completed his second rehab start at Triple-A Toledo and could make the Tigers eight-deep in the rotation when he comes back. But because Montero is optionable, and because he has experience in the bullpen, there may be little he can do to prevent a demotion to relief work."He's very versatile, because from pitch one, whether that's the start of the game or in the past when we've had him in the 'pen, he's gonna get after it, he's gonna empty his tank for his team. And that doesn't get lost on us," said Hinch. "He has gone up, he has gone down, and he has always answered with the right approach and the right attitude."As well as he as pitched as a starter, Montero said he wouldn't mind going to the bullpen if needed."I just do my best, and I will not care regardless if I stay in the rotation," he said. "As long as they give me the ball, they give me the opportunity, I'll do my best to help this team."Need to catch up on the news during your lunch break? Sign up for our Sports Briefing newsletter to get daily summaries of Detroit sports! You can reach Christian at cromo@freepress.com.This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Has Keider Montero done enough to stay in Detroit Tigers' rotation?

Texas A&M's 2027 recruiting class is on track to finish No. 1 among all the major outlets, as third-year coach Mike Elko and his staff have assembled an elite group of blue-chip prospects, including a nation-high 5 five-star commits among the program's 20 commits. Heading into the weekend, the Aggies are set to host another long list of current commits and priority prospects, including five-star running back Landon Williams-Callis.Elko's ability to match former head coach Jimbo Fisher's recruiting success was one of the primary questions after he was hired back in late Nov., 2024, spending two seasons leading the Duke Blue Devils to new heights while helping develop several future NFL players in the process. Still, it's important to note that during his tenure as Texas A&M's defensive coordinator, Elko helped shape the Aggies' 2022 historic recruiting class.Elko's ability to connect with prospects at every position, selling his future outlook for the program, and assembling a coaching staff, especially S&C coach Tommy Moffitt, has resulted in reaching unanimous No. 1 status in the 2027 cycle, while several of A&M's 20 commitments, including five-star safety Kamauri Dorsey, have shut down their recruitment.This offseason, Elko has gained more national respect, rising to No. 11 in Sporting News' latest college football head coach rankings, and after leading the Aggies to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, Texas A&M is slowly but surely becoming a national title contender, especially if the recruiting success continues to result in on-field success.247Sports' Top 10 2027 recruiting class rankings Texas A&M (20 commits)Oklahoma (21 commits)Miami (18 commits)Florida (23 commits)Notre Dame (18 commits)Oregon (17 commits)Clemson (22 commits)Auburn (17 commits)Michigan (16 commits)USC (13 commits)Contact/Follow us @AggiesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Texas A&M news, notes and opinions. Follow Cameron on X: @CameronOhnysty.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Texas A&M's 2027 recruiting class now unanimously ranked No. 1

ORLANDO — UCF welcomes its second group of recruits, including four of its five verbal commits for the 2027 cycle, for official visits this weekend, beginning June 12.The Knights had mixed results from their first wave of visitors. Lake Wales' 1,000-yard receiver Kaneilius Purdy announced a verbal commitment during the trip, and the staff made positive impressions on several other in-state targets, including Barron Collier defensive tackle Akhcuonam Augustin, Miami Carol City linebacker Debonaire Johnson and Delray Beach Atlantic running back Omari St. Fort.However, Crestview safety Zy Tassin chose Wake Forest the following weekend and Hendersonville (Tenn.) offensive tackle Teagan Parizek locked in a commitment with Arkansas. In addition, six players who previously booked trips to Orlando for June 12-14 — North Iberville (La.) cornerback Bra'Jon Melancon, Glassboro (N.J.) linebacker Tasheem Butler, Tabor Academy (Mass.) offensive tackle Botond Varga, Flanagan wide receiver Jacob Thomas, Glenwood (Iowa) interior offensive lineman Drake Buthe and Jackson (Mo.) offensive tackle Brayden Harris — decided to cancel.Butler, a North Carolina commit, recently shut down his recruitment. Thomas is committed to Pittsburgh, UCF's Week 2 opponent this fall. Melancon will instead head to Kansas State. Varga, Buthe and Harris locked in their spots with Syracuse, Minnesota and K-State, respectively.Here is the updated full list of expected arrivals this weekend.Jonathan Barnes, CB, Duncanville (Duncanville, Texas)David Overstreet II, who joined UCF's coaching staff from the Dallas Cowboys just before the start of spring ball, may look to bring a couple of Lone Star State DBs with him down to Orlando. Perhaps overshadowed at Duncanville by Ole Miss signee Victor Lincoln Jr. and Colorado signee Braylon Edwards Jr., Barnes had 35 tackles, 10 pass breakups, five TFLs and two interceptions to earn all-district honors.Tanner Ehmen, TE, Thompson (Alabaster, Ala.)UCF landed Ehmen's verbal commitment May 15, two days after position coach Cooper Bassett saw him for an in-home visit. He's got 4.6 speed to go along with a 6-foot-6, 240-pound frame. Over the last two seasons, Ehmen has caught 15 passes for 265 yards.Michael Golden, OT, Avon Old Farms (Avon, Conn.)UCF brought in a pair of tackles two weekends ago, but Marcus Small remains committed to Syracuse and Teagan Parizek chose Arkansas. Golden graduated last year from Greenwich (Conn.) High, where he played tight end and defensive end. He has more than a dozen Division I offers ahead of his post-grad season, including Wake Forest, Tulane and hometown UConn.Kash Kolbow, S, Nease (Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.)On May 23, three days after receiving an offer from UCF defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, Kolbow locked in his commitment. Per MaxPreps, Kolbow was credited with 23 passes defended as a junior, including a pair of interceptions. He added a pick in last month's spring game against Raines, the reigning FHSAA Class 3A champion.Ian McDuffie, LB, Passaic Tech (Wayne, N.J.)Mark D'Onofrio landed a New Jersey linebacker last cycle in Don Bosco Prep's Matthew Occhipinti, and he will try to do the same this time around by flipping McDuffie away from Syracuse. Like Occhipinti, McDuffie earned USA TODAY Network All-New Jersey recognition, producing monster two-way stats (26 receptions, 516 yards, six TDs; 105 tackles, five TFLs, three sacks, four forced fumbles).Ty MontsDeOca, IOL, Lakeland Christian (Lakeland, Fla.)MontsDeOca served up 44 pancake blocks for Fort Meade and made the Lakeland Ledger's All-Polk County first team, generating Power Four offers from Colorado, Wake Forest, West Virginia and UCF. Fort Meade had a balanced offense in 2025, averaging 137.2 rushing yards and 154.5 passing yards per game while scoring 264 points. Earlier this week, MontsDeOca announced he will enroll at Lakeland Christian for his senior year.Dontallis Render, EDGE, Vero Beach (Vero Beach, Fla.)Render should see an expanded role for a team that finished runner-up in the FHSAA's Class 7A and graduated its four leaders in the TFL department. Render, who had 23 tackles and 3½ TFLs, had a strong showing in Vero Beach's intrasquad scrimmage last month with a QB hit and a pair of batted passes at the line of scrimmage.Jamal Robinson Jr., WR, Mater Academy (Hialeah Gardens, Fla.)UCF's longest-tenured commit, making his choice public on April 20, Robinson caught 21 passes for 391 yards and seven touchdowns to lead Mater Academy across the board in the receiving department. He received praise from former Knights receiver Amari Johnson on social media, who saluted Robinson’s "smooth routes, strong hands" and called him a "big-time playmaker."Noah Robinson, DT, Jones (Orlando, Fla.)UCF believes the 6-foot-4, 260-pound Robinson, who transferred June 8 from Ocala Vanguard, has lots of untapped potential entering his senior year; he played just two games, per MaxPreps, and collected 10 tackles in 2025. He told 247Sports’ Andrew Cherico that UCF "has always been one of my top schools," and he committed after the team’s open practice May 2.Tavarren Wade, S, Lancaster (Lancaster, Texas)UCF jumped into the mix for Wade, Lancaster's 6-foot-2, 185-pound safety with a reported laser 40-yard dash time of 4.52 seconds, on May 26. He'd collected a number of Group of Six offers earlier in the month, including Louisiana Tech, Missouri State, Texas State and Tulsa, and he has a planned visit next weekend for UTSA.Caden Waye, RB, Ola (McDonough, Ga.)Waye is the highest-ranked recruit, according to 247Sports' composite scores, set to spend this weekend with the Knights. The 5-foot-11, 205-pound all-purpose back rushed for a team-high 838 yards and 15 touchdowns, and he added 15 catches for 304 yards and two scores. UCF did not crack Waye's initial top-12 last December, but seven of those schools have already taken at least one commitment from a rising senior running back. In addition, the Knights have a vacancy at the position after Cardinal Mooney's Connail Jackson decommitted on June 10.This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: UCF Knights football recruiting: Official visit list for June 12-14

Camavinga and Valverde: Man United told asking price for Real Madrid pairManchester United have been told exactly what it will take to land either Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde as Real Madrid plot a major overhaul this summer, according to a new report.Chaos at the BernabeuThe Santiago Bernabéu has been engulfed in chaos during a turbulent campaign for Los Blancos, with Xabi Alonso dismissed midseason amid fractures with the squad’s biggest stars, and Barcelona cruised to the league title. Barcelona cruised to the league title.In response, Florentino Perez, who was re-elected as president this week, has green-lit Jose Mourinho’s return, 13 years after the ‘Special One’ left the Spanish capital during his first spell with the club. The 79-year-old businessman is willing to make a splash in the market to back Mourinho, with links already emerging to a host of options, including West Ham starlet Mateus Fernandes – a priority target for United.To fund this revamp, Real are prepared to offload any players Mourinho deems surplus to requirements, which Foot Mercato reports includes Camavinga, Raul Asencio, Fran Garcia and Dani Ceballos, while Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia will be loaned out.But the future of Valverde remains shrouded in doubt after the Uruguay international’s physical confrontation with Aurelien Tchouameni last month, which left him hospitalised. Heavy fines were handed down to both players, but Valverde is understood to have been the instigator.Furthermore, Real are looking to sign a new No.6 to provide more control in midfield, with Manchester City maestro Rodri their primary target. If the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner was to arrive in the Spanish capital, Tchouameni’s position would become uncertain.The Red Devils will be carefully monitoring this state of flux in Madrid as all three of Camavinga, Tchouameni and Valverde are options INEOS have considered as part of their midfield revamp.The Price is SetSpanish reporter Miguel Serrano confirms Camavinga is available for sale, with Real said to be demanding £43 million for the 23-year-old Frenchman, who missed out on a place in Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup after a difficult season. Serrano claims Real are hoping interest will materialise from the Premier League where the top clubs, including United, would have no trouble meeting this fee.Camavinga is believed to want to remain at the Bernabeu as he feels he can reclaim his place in the starting eleven. But if Perez rules that a player’s future in the fabled white shirt has run its course, it usually only ends with one conclusion.On Valverde’s future, Foot Mercato reveals a price tag of £86m has been set for the 27-year-old dynamo, who is widely seen as the most ‘complete’ midfielder in world football. Should the opportunity arise to strike a deal, it could prove transformative for United.Meanwhile, Manchester City are closing in on a potentially record-breaking deal to sign Nottingham Forest talisman Elliot Anderson – another key target at Old Trafford, though one considered too costly to pursue.If Anderson arrives at the Etihad, it could signal Rodri’s time at the club is coming to an end, which could have a chain reaction that ignites United’s move for Tchouameni. INEOS see the France international as a “dream” replacement for Casemiro, as the 34-year-old Brazilian’s contract expires this month.Final ThoughtsAny one of the three Madridistas would represent a major upgrade to United’s midfield, with each of them a world-class operator regardless of recent dips in form. Camavinga appears the likeliest to leave the Bernabeu, though Tchouameni would be the best option to arrive in M16 given the hole Casemiro is leaving in the heart of Michael Carrick’s side, while Valverde is simply the best footballer of the trio.Featured image Denis Doyle via Getty Imagesonline pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Liverpool go to war with Newcastle for 'low-cost' No9Liverpool have been tipped to overhaul their forward line in the summer transfer window. The Reds have lost Hugo Ekitike to a long-term injury with the £69m Frenchman not expected back until 2027. That leaves the outgoing Premier League champions depending on Alexander Isak - whose fitness record has been patchy since signing.Isak - who signed for £125m from Newcastle last summer - has only scored four goals throughout an injury-afflicted first year.The Swede suffered a broken leg - among various other knocks - and has yet to truly prove himself as Liverpool’s No9 on a consistent basis.Relying on the 26-year-old alone would be a risk but the majority of Richard Hughes’ transfer budget is likely to be spent elsewhere this summer.A one-v-one specialist out wide is required and a new face at right-back is also needed. Those budget limitations mean a “low-cost” option could prove beneficial for the Red up front.Darwin Nunez the ideal 'low-cost' No9And in the shape of Darwin Nunez the ideal candidate could be looming into view.The Uruguayan, 26, wants a return to Anfield according to a report in Mundo Deportivo. He will be released from his Al-Hilal contract - which he signed last summer having agreed a move worth £46m.But having been de-listed from Al-Hilal’s domestic squad in Saudi Pro League competition Nunez is determined to return to Europe this summer.Liverpool are right in the hunt for his signature according to the report- but will have to slug it out with Newcastle and Chelsea to land a deal for their former cult hero.There is the presence of Barcelona to pay attention to as well - considering the Catalans are losing their No9 Robert Lewandowski.Darwin wants LFC return“The Uruguayan, who already has experience playing in Spanish football, albeit only in the Second Division with Almería, is attracting attention in the Premier League,” the report reads.“Newcastle are scouring the market for a striker for next season. German forward Nick Woltemade, who cost €75 million, has scored just 11 goals, failing to meet expectations.“Darwin Núñez would like to return to Liverpool. The Uruguayan scored 25 goals in his three seasons in the English league. Chelsea are also interested. The arrival of Xabi Alonso could facilitate his return to the Premier League.”Nunez could well prove to be the ideal signing this summer. Fans were always a fan of his workrate - even if in later seasons he didn’t score with enough regularity.The former Benfica striker has been on a contract worth a reported £400k a week in Saudi Arabia and is unlikely to earn anything like that kind of money back in the Premier League.And Liverpool do have a clear advantage - considering the South American sharp shooter is begging for a chance to come back.

AC Milan retain interest in Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe MatetaA knee problem foiled Jean-Philippe Mateta’s (28) move to AC Milan back in January, but the Serie A side have retained their interest in the Crystal Palace forward, as per a report from L’Équipe.Mateta had made his intention to leave Crystal Palace in January clear. He had looked to be closing in on a move to Nottingham Forest before AC Milan’s intervention, however, medical tests revealed a knee issue. It was reported at the time that the Frenchman would even need surgery, although that was avoided. Whilst Mateta’s relationship with the Crystal Palace fans was damaged, he returned to finish the season in fine form, netting the winner in the UEFA Europa Conference League final victory over Rayo Vallecano. He earned himself a place in Crystal Palace folklore and also in the France squad for the FIFA World Cup.And once again, there are rumours of an exit. The link between Mateta and AC Milan still exists… and the Italian side could soon be managed by former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner. Should the France international leave this summer, a Premier League rival or a Serie A side are the most likely destinations.GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Jesse Marsch gives fresh injury update on Alphonso Davies ahead of Canada's World Cup openerWhen Canada play their World Cup opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday night at 21:00 CEST, they will be without their captain.As Canada coach Jesse Marsch confirmed at his pre-match press conference, Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies will not be involved as he continues his recovery from a muscle injury.However, Marsch said Davies is progressing well, having undergone an MRI earlier this week.“It showed very positive signs that he’s healing incredibly well, almost completely, so we’re getting ready to ramp things up,” Marsch said.“He’s shown, as he always has, a really strong ability to recover from muscle injuries.“We’re really hopeful that over the next days and weeks we can accelerate things to give him a chance to contribute.”

Does Kylian Mbappé want to play on the left for France?Kylian Mbappé’s (27) positioning has been the source of much debate in recent years. During his final season at Paris Saint-Germain and since his arrival at Real Madrid, he has played in the No.9 role at club level. It is a similar story at international level. Especially since the international retirement of France’s all-time top-scorer Olivier Giroud post-Euro 2024, it is Mbappé who has led the line. However, his positioning is not without controversy, and it has become the topic in France ahead of their FIFA World Cup opener against Senegal on Tuesday.Ousmane Dembélé has excelled through the middle for PSG, but his prospects of playing in that position for France are dashed due to the presence of captain Mbappé. Speaking on RMC Sport show After Foot, consultant Walid Acherchour revealed that Mbappé wants to play on the left of the attack, however, it is Didier Deschamps who wants to continue playing the Real Madrid forward centrally. GFFN | Luke Entwistle

MARLBOROUGH — The MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau, a Framingham-based group that promotes travel and tourism across nearly 20 communities, and City of Marlborough officials are gearing up for tonight's FIFA World Cup soccer match between the United States and Paraguay.The match, the first for each team in Group D play, takes place at 9 p.m. EST at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, Calif. Kelleher Field in Marlborough is one of two so-called "Fan Zones" hosted by the Visitors Bureau for local World Cup fans. These are public spaces to watch matches for people who don't have tickets. Held in public places, they broadcast the match on giant screens to offer an immersive experience to watch the game, according to FIFA.As of Wednesday, Visitors Bureau officials reported that 1,200 people had registered to watch the USA-Paraguay match in Marlborough. More: Look where you can get free FIFA World Cup viewing in MetroWest In addition to the large TV screens, the event also includes food trucks, a beer garden, vendors, entertainment and family-friendly activities. Free tickets can be reserved at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/metrowest-regional-fan-zone-2026-marlborough-tickets-1988416050935. On Saturday, the Marlborough Fan Zone will host Group C matches between Brazil and Morocco (6 p.m. EST) and Scotland and Haiti (9 p.m.). As of Wednesday, a total of 2,200 had registered to watch those matches in Marlborough, according to the Visitors Bureau. This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Marlborough Fan Zone ready to host United States vs. Paraguay World Cup

Who: USA vs ParaguayWhat: FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D matchWhere: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CaliforniaWhen: Friday, 6pm local time (01:00 GMT Saturday)How to follow: We’ll have all the build-up on Al Jazeera Sport from 22:00 GMT in advance of our live text commentary stream.For the first time in more than three decades, the United States will play a football World Cup on home soil when the team hosts familiar foes Paraguay in their 2026 tournament opener.With tens of thousands of fans cheering from the stands and millions watching at home, the pressure is on the US to live up to expectations.Anything less than three points against their South American opponents could affect the US’s prospects, as they look to go further than the round of 16 finish from the home World Cup in 1994.Donald Trump to attend USA vs Paraguay?Before the action kicks off on the field at SoFi Stadium, the cameras will be searching for a VIP in the stands: US President Donald Trump.While Paraguay’s president, Santiago Pena, announced that he would be travelling to LA for the match, Trump’s attendance at the first 2026 World Cup game on American soil is yet to be confirmed.Usually, the president or head of state of the host nations attends the opening match of the tournament – and this World Cup, with 48 teams and 104 matches, is the biggest-ever in history.Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino hold a replica 2026 FIFA World Cup final match ticket [File: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters]US: Strong strike force, but cracks at the backNicknamed “Captain America”, forward Christian Pulisic is the poster boy of the US team. With 33 goals in 88 appearances, he is a major attacking asset, possessing the valuable ability to both create and finish chances.Until last week, the 27-year-old AC Milan star was on a goal drought dating back to late 2024, but fans were relieved to see him score one and set up another in their pre-World Cup friendly against Senegal.Pulisic’s form could dictate how far the US go at the tournament, where they have an upper hand as the highest-ranked team (17th) in their group.Pulisic was one of the three goal scorers in their friendly win over fellow World Cup participants Senegal [Bob Donnan-Imagn Images]Apart from the playmaker, the Americans’ dangerous attack also features the versatile Weston McKennie and forward Folarin Balogun, while midfielder Malik Tillman is one to watch.While the US is blessed with talent high up the pitch, there are some cracks at the back.The US have only had one clean sheet in their last 13 games, and have conceded 11 goals in their past four matches. Inexperienced goalkeeper Matt Freese may have to work harder than his outfield teammates.This year’s tournament marks the 12th US appearance, with a third-place finish in an 18-team 1930 World Cup being their best achievement so far.Watch out for Paraguay’s solid defenceUnlike the US, Paraguay’s strength lies in defence.Although Paraguay are the lowest-ranked team (41st) in this group, they possess a solid backline, which will try to slow down the American attack.The Paraguayans, though, have struggled to score.Miguel Almiron – known for his time at Newcastle United – is a key part of Paraguay’s attack [Cesar Olmedo/Reuters]With 14 goals in 18 games during World Cup qualifying, and their main attacking threat, Julio Enciso injured, finding the net might be difficult for Gustavo Alfaro’s side.As cohosts, the US did not have to qualify for the tournament, while Paraguay had to ⁠come through the demanding CONMEBOL route, finishing last of the six automatic qualifiers ⁠in South America.La Albirroja – Spanish for “the white and red” – are returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, when they lost to eventual champions Spain in the quarterfinals.Paraguay is coming back to the World Cup after 16 long years. What a send off. pic.twitter.com/udJePdzuue— herculez gomez (@herculezg) June 6, 2026How does the World Cup group stage work?The US, Paraguay, Australia and Turkiye are in Group D.The top two teams from each of the 12 groups – along with the eight best third-placed teams – proceed to the next phase, the round of 32, which has been introduced at the World Cup for the first time.Where to watch the USA vs Paraguay World Cup match?Fans in the US can watch the game on Universo, Telemundo App, Fox One, Fox, Tubi, Telemundo Network, Telexitos and Peacock. Kickoff is at 9pm ET, Friday.In Paraguay, TyC International B.V., and Nacion Media have the rights to telecast and livestream the match, set to begin at 10pm, Friday local time.Viewers in the United Kingdom can watch it on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.USA vs Paraguay predictionStats provider Opta Analyst has given the USA a 40.1 percent chance of victory over Paraguay, who have 33.3 percent odds of winning.There is a 26.6 percent chance the match ends in a draw.Form guide:(Last five games, latest first)US: L-W-L-L-WParaguay: W-L-W-W-LParaguay have a better record in their last five matches than the US, having beaten Nicaragua in a warm-up last week. They also beat Greece in a friendly in March and stunned tournament cohosts Mexico last November.In the build-up to the World Cup, the US beat Senegal in a friendly but lost to Germany. They also lost to Portugal and Belgium in March but beat Uruguay in November.USA vs Paraguay: Head-to-head recordFriday’s encounter will be the 10th meeting between the sides.The US have won five times so far, while Paraguay have won twice, and two games ended drawn.The North Americans are on a three-match winning streak against the South Americans, including a 2-1 friendly victory last November.The teams met in the first World Cup in 1930 in a match won by the US.Team news: Enciso out for ParaguayParaguay were dealt a huge blow before the tournament when their main attacker, Enciso, was ruled out of the opening match due to a thigh injury sustained in their friendly win over Nicaragua.A regular starter in Paraguay’s World Cup qualifiers, Enciso was seen in tears when he was taken off the field on a stretcher in the first half of the South American side’s final warm-up game on June 6.In his absence, Paraguay will turn to midfielder Diego Gomez to create chances or go for goal.US head coach Mauricio Pochettino has no injury concerns or doubts.USA predicted XIAl Jazeera’s predicted USA XI vs Paraguay [Opta]Paraguay predicted XIParaguay’s predicted XI to face USA [Opta]You can follow the action on Al Jazeera’s dedicated FIFA World Cup 2026 page with all the latest news, match build-up and live text commentary, and keep up to date with group standings, real-time match results and schedules.

For most Scots following the World Cup, who they're supporting isn't even a question. And football-mad Jack and Heather Souttar of Luthermuir in Aberdeenshire have more reason than most fans to be heading to the USA this week.Their son John is making his World Cup debut in the blue jersey of Scotland. But that's where things get complicated. Because their younger son, Harry, is turning out in the gold of Australia. They're proud of both boys and looking forward to watching them play. But their sons' success means Jack and Heather need to get to two first-round games which are 3,000 miles and six days apart.And they're keeping their fingers crossed and options open should both teams progress.As Jack says: "It's a big thing, I suppose. We want to support both kids and both countries. Then the ball's in the air for the rest of it."What's the score with watching Scotland in the World Cup? From France to Naples: Scotland's last World Cup changed my lifeBoth defenders, John now plays at Rangers after stints with Dundee United and Hearts, while Harry - who also started at Tannadice - had a spell at Stoke before joining Leicester City.John first played for Scotland in 2018 and Harry has been a feature of the Australian national squad since 2019, thanks to mum Heather being born there.According to their parents, having two sons playing at the highest level means they can enjoy both their successes, and the boys enjoy a friendly and supportive rivalry.Jack says: "They're fairly close brothers, though there was a bit of scrapping when they were younger. "They're always talking to each other about games. They're always looking out for each other, that's for certain."The beautiful game has played a big part in the lives of all the Souttars. Jack turned out for Brechin in his youth and the next generation of three sons and two daughters all played and follow the game. Managing all that took a lot of commitment and organisation over the years."I think the big thing is that it was never a task for us," Jack says. "We trained at Dundee twice a week. Then we were going down to Glasgow twice a week and training down there."The boys' burgeoning careers took them all over the UK, including Dingwall, Fleetwood and Stoke. "We were all over the country supporting them and, to be fair, we both really enjoy football. It was excellent. We didn't want to be grumpy parents. We treated it as a holiday."This World Cup is not the family's first. In 1998, the last time Scotland made it to the finals, Jack was there with oldest son Aaron, among a gang of family and friends.But toddler John was too young to make the trip and stayed at home with Heather, who was heavily pregnant with Harry."I never made it," Heather says. "I was very pleased that they went and I said 'well, I'll go to the next one'."But here we are, 28 years later for the next one. I've waited a while."Of course, 28 years later that toddler and baby bump are now playing at the World Cup.This time, four generations of extended family as well as friends are going, with Heather at the centre organising it all.Aaron, the oldest of the five siblings, won't be in the USA this year. He died in July 2022 at the age of 42 after a long battle with motor neurone disease.Both players credit their brother with helping shape their careers and talk of him as a role model. Harry played for Australia at the Qatar World Cup in 2022 but this year marks John's debut. Two boys, two teams, one family. But what happens if the stars align, Scotland end up playing Australia, and the brothers end up playing against one another?"I think the feelings are very similar for both the kids," Jack says. "I don't think, because we're from Scotland, our feelings for Harry are any less. "We're just so proud - as any parent would be - for their kids doing well. In any sport or any walk of life."For Heather, USA 2026 marks the chance for their family to make some new memories."On the football side we'll have new stories, because we've heard the France '98 stories for years, so we'll have lots of new stories and new memories for all the family," she says."Memories and stories forever and that's all you can want for families, isn't it?"'Unit' Souttar's Scotland impact praisedSouttar dreams of emulating brother by reaching World Cup

Manchester United make Sangare move as Anderson alternativeManchester United are considering a move to sign Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare as an alternative to Elliot Anderson.Nottingham Forest have rejected a bid worth an initial £106m from Manchester City for Anderson, with the club demanding a British record fee, in excess of £125m, for the England international.United had made Anderson a top target for their midfield rebuild, but that rejected bid from their cross-town rivals has persuaded the Red Devils to move on to alternatives. United are not willing to be dragged into a bidding war for Anderson, nor pay a British record sum.According to FootMercato journalist Sebastien Denis, Michael Carrick’s side have been impressed with Sangare and view him a a potential option.The 23-year-old shone as Lens secured Champions League qualification in Ligue 1 last season, where he scored three goals and provided four assists, while ranking second in the division for tackles won.The Mali international could be available for around £35m to £40m, a fraction of Anderson’s price tag. United have already agreed a £35m deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta, and remain interested in a number of Premier League based midfielders.Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes are among those to have been scouted extensively.Read – How to watch World Cup highlights this summerSee more – World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

Milan consider Amorim appointment after Allegri exitAC Milan are considering Ruben Amorim as a potential option to become the club’s next manager.Milan are assessing candidates following the decision to sack head coach Massimiliano Allegri, following a failure to secure Champions League qualification.Despite starting the season strongly, a poor run-in cost Milan a place in next season’s Champions League, with the club’s board describing it as an ‘unequivocal failure’.“For the majority of this season, we were in the top two positions in Serie A, with a credible shot at competing for the Scudetto,” read a statement from American investment group RedBird Capital.“The final stretch was completely inconsistent with the performance up to that point, with last night’s disappointing loss in the final game turning the season into an unequivocal failure.“It is now time for change and a comprehensive reorganisation of football operations.”The recruitment process for a replacement is ongoing. Talks have been held with former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner over the role, while Spanish outlet Fichajes claim Amorim is also a candidate.The latter has been out of work since being sacked at Manchester United in January, following an underwhelming 14 months in charge.Amorim had arrived at Old Trafford regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in Europe. He led former side Sporting CP to two Primeira Liga titles, with the first ending a 19-year wait title drought.Read – World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsSee more – How to watch World Cup highlights this summerFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

Newcastle receive big boost in €34m Munoz pursuitNewcastle United have been handed a boost in the club’s pursuit of Osasuna winger Victor Munoz. Eddie Howe has made the signing of the Spanish winger his top priority to replace Anthony Gordon, following his £69m transfer to Barcelona.The Magpies have agreed a deal worth around €34m (£29.3m) for the 22-year-old, who scored six goals and laid on two assists in 33 La Liga appearances.Munoz also ranked in the top 11% of wingers across Europe for progressive carries and successful dribbles last season.He marked his Spain debut with a goal against Serbia in March, and has been included in the squad for this summer’s World Cup.Real Madrid retain a buy back clause on Munoz, having sold the winger to Osasuna last summer for just €6m. However, the Spanish giants have no intention of activating that clause, leaving Newcastle with a clear run at Munoz.Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Real do possess a 50% sell-on clause, entitling Jose Mourinho’s side to around €17m from the deal.Read – How to watch World Cup highlights this summerSee more – World Cup round-up: Mexico and South Korea start with winsFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

The New York Knicks managed to pull off the biggest comeback in NBA Finals history during Game 4 or their series against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. Initially trailing by 29 points at the half, the team came back to win 107-106 thanks to a near-buzzer beater scored by OG Anunoby. The series, now 3-1, heads back to San Antonio for Game 5. The New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs Game 5 is this Saturday, June 13 at 8:30 p.m. ET and airs on ABC. Take a look at the odds for this year's tournament, and then read on to find out what you need to know so you won't miss a single game of the 2026 NBA finals. How to watch the New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA finals:Date: June 13, 2026Time: 8:30 p.m. ETLocation: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, TXTV channel: ABCStreaming: ESPN Unlimited, DirecTV and moreNew York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs game channel:Game 5 and every other game of the NBA finals will be broadcast on ABC.How to watch the Knicks vs. Spurs without cable:Games on ABC are also streaming on ESPN Unlimited. You can find all ABC on streaming platforms like DirecTV and YouTube TV.More ways to watch the NBA finals:2026 NBA Finals Schedule:June 3: Game 1: New York Knicks (105) vs. (95) San Antonio SpursJune 5: Game 2: New York Knicks (105) vs. (104) San Antonio SpursJune 8: Game 3: New York Knicks (111) vs. (115) San Antonio SpursJune 10: Game 4: New York Knicks (107) vs. (106) San Antonio Spurs June 13: Game 5: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ETJune 16: Game 6: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET (if necessary)June 19: Game 7: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs on ABC, 8:30 p.m. ET (if necessary)

How to watch World Cup 2026: TV channels, live streams and fixture schedule for FIFA tournament originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The FIFA World Cup is considered the most illustrious competition on the global football calendar.Held every four years, winning the World Cup is believed to be the pinnacle achievement of a player's career, as winners are painted as international heroes.The 2026 FIFA World Cup, joint-hosted across North America by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the biggest of its kind, expanding to 48 teams, the largest-ever field in this tournament's storied history.The Sporting News brings you all the details about the tournament, including how to tune in, key dates for the competition, and an overview of the match schedule.MORE:Complete FIFA World Cup 2026 scheduleHow to watch World Cup 2026: TV channels, live streamsENGLISH:TV channel: FOXStreaming:fubo, Fox One, Fox Sports app/websiteSPANISH:TV channel: TelemundoStreaming:fubo, PeacockFOX is the main English-language FIFA broadcast partner in the United States, and will have the rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.The broadcaster has announced that all 104 matches of the tournament will be televised throughout the competition. 69 matches from the competition will air on the main FOX network channel, while 35 others will be televised on FS1.For Spanish-language coverage, all 104 matches will stream live on Peacock, with 92 matches airing on Telemundo and 12 on Universo.All those channels, both English and Spanish, are available to stream in the United States on fubo, who are offering a FREE trial for new users.Every match will also stream live on FOX One and the FOX Sports app.Key dates for World Cup 2026Here are all the most important dates for World Cup fans to know during the tournament:May 29-June 7: Pre-World Cup international friendlies contestedJune 11: Opening match of the 2026 World CupJuly 19: 2026 World Cup finalHere is an overview of the World Cup match schedule:StageRoundDatesGroup stageRound 1June 11-17Round 2June 18-23Round 3June 24-27Knockout stageRound of 32June 28-July 3Round of 16July 4-7QuarterfinalsJuly 9-11SemifinalsJuly 14-153rd place matchJuly 18FinalJuly 19What are the groups for World Cup 2026?Group A tablePos.TeamPTSGPWDLGFGAGD1.Mexico3110020+22.South Korea3110021+13.Czechia0100112-14.South Africa0100102-2Group A fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationThu, Jun. 113 p.m.Mexico 2-0 South AfricaEstadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Thu, Jun. 1110 p.m.South Korea 2-1 CzechiaEstadio Akron (Guadalajara, MEX)Thu, Jun. 1812 p.m.Czechia vs. South AfricaMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Thu, Jun. 189 p.m.Mexico vs. South KoreaEstadio Akron (Guadalajara, MEX)Wed, Jun. 249 p.m.Czechia vs. MexicoEstadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Wed, Jun. 249 p.m.South Africa vs. South KoreaEstadio BBVA (Monterrey, MEX)STADIUM GUIDES:Estadio Azteca | Estadio Akron | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Estadio BBVAGroup B tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Canada000000002.Bosnia and Herzegovina000000003.Qatar000000004.Switzerland00000000Group B fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationFri, Jun. 123 p.m.Canada vs. Bosnia and HerzegovinaBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Sat, Jun. 133 p.m.Qatar vs. SwitzerlandLevi's Stadium (San Francisco, CA)Thu, Jun. 183 p.m.Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. SwitzerlandSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Thu, Jun. 186 p.m.Canada vs. QatarBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Wed, Jun. 243 p.m.Switzerland vs. CanadaBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Wed, Jun. 243 p.m.Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. QatarLumen Field (Seattle, WA)STADIUM GUIDES:BMO Field | Levi's Stadium | SoFi Stadium | BC Place | Lumen FieldGroup C tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Brazil000000002.Morocco000000003.Haiti000000004.Scotland00000000Group C fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSat, Jun. 136 p.m.Brazil vs. MoroccoMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Sat, Jun. 139 p.m.Haiti vs. ScotlandGillette Stadium (Boston, MA)Fri, Jun. 196 p.m.Scotland vs. MoroccoGillette Stadium (Boston, MA)Fri, Jun. 199 p.m.Brazil vs. HaitiLincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Wed, Jun. 246 p.m.Scotland vs. BrazilHard Rock Stadium (Miami Gardens, FL)Wed, Jun. 246 p.m.Morocco vs. HaitiMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Group D tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.United States000000002.Paraguay000000003.Australia000000004.Turkey00000000Group D fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationFri, Jun. 129 p.m.United States vs. ParaguaySoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Sat, Jun. 1312 a.m.Australia vs. TurkeyBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Fri, Jun. 193 p.m.United States vs. AustraliaLumen Field (Seattle, WA)Sat, Jun. 2012 a.m.Turkey vs. ParaguayLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)Thu, Jun. 2510 p.m.Turkey vs. United StatesSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Thu, Jun. 2510 p.m.Paraguay vs. AustraliaLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)STADIUM GUIDES:SoFi Stadium | BC Place | Levi's Stadium | Lumen FieldGroup E tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Germany000000002.Curacao000000003.Ivory Coast000000004.Ecuador00000000Group E fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jun. 141 p.m.Germany vs. CuracaoNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Sun, Jun. 147 p.m.Ivory Coast vs. EcuadorLincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Sat, Jun. 204 p.m.Germany vs. Ivory CoastBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Sat, Jun. 208 p.m.Ecuador vs. CuracaoArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Thu, Jun. 254 p.m.Ecuador vs. GermanyMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Thu, Jun. 254 p.m.Curacao vs. Ivory CoastLincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Group F tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Netherlands000000002.Japan000000003.Sweden000000004.Tunisia00000000Group F fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationSun, Jun. 144 p.m.Netherlands vs. JapanAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Sun, Jun. 1410 p.m.Sweden vs. TunisiaEstadio BBVA (Monterrey, MEX)Sat, Jun. 201 p.m.Netherlands vs. SwedenNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Sun, Jun. 2112 a.m.Tunisia vs. JapanEstadio BBVA (Monterrey, MEX)Thu, Jun. 257 p.m.Tunisia vs. NetherlandsArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Thu, Jun. 257 p.m.Japan vs. SwedenAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Group G tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Belgium000000002.Egypt000000003.Iran000000004.New Zealand00000000Group G fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationMon, June 153 p.m.Belgium vs. EgyptLumen Field (Seattle, WA)Mon, June 159 p.m.Iran vs. New ZealandSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Sun, June 213 p.m.Belgium vs. IranSoFi Stadium (Inglewood, CA)Sun, June 219 p.m.New Zealand vs. EgyptBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Fri, June 2611 p.m.New Zealand vs. BelgiumBC Place (Vancouver, CAN)Fri, June 2611 p.m.Egypt vs. IranLumen Field (Seattle, WA)Group H tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Spain000000002.Cape Verde000000003.Saudi Arabia000000004.Uruguay00000000Group H fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationMon, Jun. 1512 p.m.Spain vs. Cape VerdeMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Mon, Jun. 156 p.m.Saudi Arabia vs. UruguayHard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Sun, Jun. 2112 p.m.Spain vs. Saudi ArabiaMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Sun, Jun. 216 p.m.Uruguay vs. Cape VerdeHard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Fri, Jun. 268 p.m.Uruguay vs. SpainEstadio Akron (Guadalajara, MEX)Fri, Jun. 268 p.m.Cape Verde vs. Saudi ArabiaNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Group I tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.France000000002.Senegal000000003.Iraq000000004.Norway00000000Group I fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationTue, Jun. 163 p.m.France vs. SenegalMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Tue, Jun. 166 p.m.Iraq vs. NorwayGillette Stadium (Foxborough, MA)Mon, Jun. 225 p.m.France vs. IraqLincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)Mon, Jun. 228 p.m.Norway vs. SenegalMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Fri, Jun. 263 p.m.Norway vs. FranceGillette Stadium (Foxborough, MA)Fri, Jun. 263 p.m.Senegal vs. IraqBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Group J tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Argentina000000002.Algeria000000003.Austria000000004.Jordan00000000Group J fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationTue, Jun. 169 p.m.Argentina vs. AlgeriaArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Tue, Jun. 1712 a.m.Austria vs. JordanLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)Mon, Jun. 221 p.m.Argentina vs. AustriaAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Mon, Jun. 2211 p.m.Jordan vs. AlgeriaLevi's Stadium (Santa Clara, CA)Sat, Jun. 2710 p.m.Jordan vs. ArgentinaArrowhead Stadium (Kansas City, MO)Sat, Jun. 2710 p.m.Algeria vs. AustriaAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Group K tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.Portugal000000002.DR Congo000000003.Uzbekistan000000004.Colombia00000000Group K fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationWed, Jun. 171 p.m.Portugal vs. DR CongoNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Wed, Jun. 1710 p.m.Uzbekistan vs. ColombiaEstadio Azteca (Mexico City, MEX)Tue, Jun. 231 p.m.Portugal vs. UzbekistanNRG Stadium (Houston, TX)Tue, Jun. 2310 p.m.Colombia vs. DR CongoEstadio Akron (Guadalajara, MEX)Sat, Jun. 277:30 p.m.Colombia vs. PortugalHard Rock Stadium (Miami, FL)Sat, Jun. 277:30 p.m.DR Congovs. UzbekistanMercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)Group L tablePos.TeamPTSGPWLDGFGAGD1.England000000002.Croatia000000003.Ghana000000004.Panama00000000Group L fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchLocationWed, Jun. 174 p.m.England vs. CroatiaAT&T Stadium (Arlington, TX)Wed, Jun. 177 p.m.Ghana vs. PanamaBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Tue, Jun. 234 p.m.England vs. GhanaGillette Stadium (Foxborough, MA)Tue, Jun. 237 p.m.Panama vs. CroatiaBMO Field (Toronto, CAN)Sat, Jun. 275 p.m.Panama vs. EnglandMetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)Sat, Jun. 275 p.m.Croatia vs. GhanaLincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)

Feyenoord keen on Westerlo’s former Eintracht Frankfurt strikerAccording to FR12, Feyenoord are said to be interested in signing Nacho Ferri from Westerlo. The former Eintracht Frankfurt striker has spent the past two seasons in Belgium, firstly with Kortrijk on loan and then last season with Westerlo permanently. Feyenoord are said to be keen on the 21-year-old Spanish striker who has a contract with Westerlo until 2029. Ferri scored 11 goals in 37 games for Westerlo, an improvement on the eight in 34 he scored for Kortrijk the season before.It is clear to see why Feyenoord are interested in signing Ferri. The young Spanish forward will bring a physical presence to the Rotterdam sides attack and has improved a fair amount in the past two seasons he has played in the Belgian Pro League. Prior to joining Kortrijk on loan, Ferri had played 13 games for Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring once. According to the information that FR12 have, Ferri is keen to make the move from Westerlo to Feyenoord, especially as the Dutch side offer him the chance of playing in Europe. Westerlo will be keen to get a decent fee for Ferri as replacing him could prove to be difficult. Feyenoord are also looking for a new head coach, having sacked Robin van Persie earlier this week. GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson

Bradley Barcola over Désiré Doué on France’s left?There are few uncertainties in this France side heading into their FIFA World Cup opener against Senegal, but one does exist on the left-hand side. It is a role that Marcus Thuram has often played, including during the Euro 2024 campaign. Despite rarely impressing in the role, he nonetheless started there in the warm-up game against the Ivory Coast last week. However, Didier Deschamps looks set to make a change and, whilst there is debate as to who will occupy the position on the left of the attack, it is two other names who are in the conversation.It was Désiré Doué who started for France against Northern Ireland. However, the configuration left a little to be desired. Starting in an attack that also included Ousmane Dembélé, Kylian Mbappé, and Michael Olise, there was little variety in Les Bleus’ play. Whilst Mbappé did make runs in behind, the other three sought to get the ball to feet. Bradley Barcola, in contrast, also makes runs in behind, and L’Équipe understands that Deschamps may favour this type of profile in order to add variety. There is, therefore, a chance that Barcola starts over Paris Saint-Germain teammate Doué next week.GFFN | Luke Entwistle