Where to watch Alabama vs. Oklahoma: Channel, time, TV schedule, live stream for 2026 CWS baseball game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.For the first time in 27 years, Alabama Crimson is back in Omaha after sweeping the Tuscaloosa super regional to secure its sixth all-time College World Series appearance. The No. 7 seed will take on Oklahoma, which punched its own ticket to the final eight-team field by routing Kansas in the Lawrence super regional.This marks the third time since 2010 that the Sooners have made the trip to Omaha. The last time they made it this far in 2022, Oklahoma lost to Ole Miss in the finals.Fans tuning into the broadcast will want to keep a close eye on Alabama's Brady Neal, who carries a stellar 1.004 OPS into the matchup, alongside the Sooners' dangerous bat Deiten Lachance, who boasts a .332 average and a 1.015 OPS.On the mound, the pitching duel looks just as fierce, pitting Alabama's reliable ace Zane Adams (8-4, 3.96 ERA) against Oklahoma's Cameron Johnson (6-1, 4.36 ERA).Historically, the Crimson Tide hold a 9-4 advantage in the all-time series against the Sooners, including a 2-1 series win over Oklahoma in April. This will mark the first time these two programs have ever met in the NCAA tournament.Here's everything that you need to know about watching Alabama vs. Oklahoma, including TV and live stream information for Saturday's CWS showdown. Where to watch Alabama vs. Oklahoma: TV channel, live streamTV channel: ESPNLive stream: fubo | ESPN appAlabama vs. Oklahoma will air live on ESPN. Viewers can stream the game with fubo or the ESPN app.Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and 200+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)Alabama vs. Oklahoma start timeDate: Saturday, June 13Time: 3 p.m. ET | 2 p.m. CTFirst pitch of Alabama vs. Oklahoma is set for 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, June 13.The game will be played at Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska, the home of the CWS. College World Series bracket 2026Here are the initial brackets for the CWS. See the full game schedule below. Bracket 1No. 16 West VirginiaTroyNo. 5 North CarolinaOle MissBracket 2No. 7 AlabamaOklahomaNo. 3 GeorgiaNo. 6 TexasCollege World Series schedule 2026Saturday, June 13GameTime (ET)TV/Live streamGame 3: Alabama vs. Oklahoma3 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appGame 4: Georgia vs. Texas8 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appSunday, June 14GameTime (ET)WatchGame 5: Ole Miss vs. Troy2 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appGame 6: North Carolina vs. West Virginia7 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appMonday, June 15GameTime (ET)TV/Live streamGame 7: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser2 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appGame 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner7 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appTuesday, June 16GameTime (ET)TV/Live streamGame 9: Game 5 winner vs. Game 6 loser2 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appGame 10: Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 loser8 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appWednesday, June 17GameTime (ET)TV/Live streamGame 11: Game 6 winner vs. Game 9 winner2 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appGame 12: game 8 winner vs. Game 10 winner7 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appThursday, June 18GameTime (ET)TV/Live streamBracket 1: Game 11 rematch*TBDESPN, fubo, ESPN appBracket 2: Game 12 rematch*TBDESPN, fubo, ESPN app* If necessaryCollege World Series finals schedule 2026DateGameTime (ET)TV/Live streamSat., June 20Game 18 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN appSun., June 21Game 22:30 p.m.ABC, fubo, ESPN appMon., June 22Game 3*7 p.m.ESPN, fubo, ESPN app* If necessaryCollege World Series champions listHere are the last 10 College World Series winners and runners-up. There was no tournament in 2020 due to COVID-19.YearChampionRunner-up2025LSUCoastal Carolina2024TennesseeTexas A&M2023LSUFlorida2022Ole MissOklahoma2021Mississippi StateVanderbilt2019VanderbiltMichigan2018Oregon StateArkansas2017FloridaLSU2016Coastal CarolinaArizona2015VirginiaVanderbilt

Where to watch Brazil vs. Morocco live stream, TV channel, start time for World Cup Group C match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.After a miracle run to the semifinals in 2022, Morocco's 2026 World Cup run is set to begin. Its opponents? A powerhouse team from Brazil. These two are sure to make for an interesting match to open the action for Group C. Brazil and Morocco met once before in World Cup action. This came back in 1998, where Brazil won 3-0. However, Morocco took down the last matchup between these two foes, winning 2-1 in a friendly in 2023.These two are joined by Haiti and Scotland, two teams that qualified for the World Cup for the first time since the turn of the century. Morocco and Brazil are the favorites in this group and will have their toughest test right from the start in their quest for the knockout rounds. The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match and kickoff times.Brazil vs. Morocco live stream, TV channelTV channel: FS1Live stream: fubo,Fox One, Fox Sports app/websiteThis match will be broadcast nationally on Fox Sports One in the United States with streaming options available across its platforms.The best place to catch the match is on the streaming service, fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)What time does Brazil vs. Morocco start?Brazil and Morocco begin their World Cup journeys on Saturday, June 13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. The match will start at 6 p.m. ET. Here's how that time translates across the United States time zones:DateKickoff timeEastern TimeSat, June 136 p.m.Central TimeSat, June 135 p.m.Mountain TimeSat, June 134 p.m.Pacific TimeSat, June 133 p.m.World Cup schedule today and tomorrowAll times Eastern.Saturday, June 13Qatar vs. Switzerland (3 p.m.)Brazil vs. Morocco (6 p.m.) Haiti vs. Scotland (9 p.m.) Sunday, June 14Australia vs. Turkey (12 a.m.)Germany vs. Curacao (1 p.m.) Netherlands vs. Japan (4 p.m.) Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador (7 p.m.) Sweden vs. Tunisia (10 p.m.) MORE:Complete World Cup schedule and fixtures2026 FIFA World Cup FAQsWhen is the 2026 FIFA World Cup?The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to run from June 11 through July 19, 2026. It will be the first World Cup hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico.Where is the 2026 FIFA World Cup being played?The 2026 World Cup will be played across 16 host cities in North America, with matches taking place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It will be the first men’s World Cup hosted by three countries.The 16 host cities are Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle in the United States; Toronto and Vancouver in Canada; and Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey in Mexico.How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, expanding from the 32-team format used in previous tournaments. The larger field also means more matches, more knockout-round games and more countries involved than ever before.The 48 teams are Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cape Verde, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, Curaçao, Czechia, DR Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Ghana, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Senegal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Türkiye, United States, Uruguay and Uzbekistan.How many games are in the 2026 World Cup?There will be 104 matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That includes the group stage, knockout rounds and the final.Can I stream the 2026 World Cup?Yes. Streaming options will depend on the match, language and broadcast partner. In the U.S., Fox Sports lists FOX and FS1, which are available on fubo for English-language coverage, while Telemundo will stream every match live on Peacock and the Telemundo App for Spanish-language coverage.What channel is the 2026 World Cup on?In the U.S., English-language matches are expected across FOX and FS1, which are available on fubo for those without cable, while Spanish-language coverage will air on Telemundo and Universo, which you can stream on DIRECTV and Peacock. Check the schedule for the specific match you want to watch.When is the 2026 World Cup final?The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, 2026. The match will be played at New York-New Jersey Stadium, FIFA’s tournament name for MetLife Stadium.What time do World Cup games start?Kickoff times vary by date, host city and round. Because the tournament is being played across multiple time zones in the United States, Canada and Mexico, fans should check the official match schedule for start times in their local time zone.Is the United States playing in the 2026 World Cup?Yes. The United States automatically qualified for the 2026 World Cup as one of the three host nations, along with Canada and Mexico.

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesRon Harper had a blunt response for critics after Dylan Harper joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in rare NBA playoff history.The San Antonio Spurs rookie has played an increasingly important role during a deep postseason run, and the numbers now put him in a class few first-year players have ever touched.For Ron, the historic stat was not just a basketball note. It was a chance to push back at people still trying to pick holes in his son’s game.Photo by Julian Hamilton/FilmMagicRon Harper fires back as Dylan Harper joins Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s playoff companyIn a post shared by Ron Harper on X, the five-time NBA champion reacted to a stat placing Dylan alongside Kareem as the only rookies with at least 300 points on 60% true shooting in a single playoff run.“Yet I keep seeing d___ a__ comments lol does your kid play?” Ron Harper tweeted.The message was short, proud, and pointed. Harper was not only celebrating the milestone, he was calling out criticism that has followed a rookie playing important minutes on the NBA Finals stage.Dylan has been productive without needing to dominate the ball, which is what makes the 60% true-shooting marker stand out. It shows scoring volume and efficiency, not empty numbers built on high usage.Dylan Harper rookie surge now sits beside Kareem Abdul-Jabbar historyThe comparison is heavy because Kareem’s rookie playoff run in 1970 remains one of the great first-year postseason performances.Then playing as Lew Alcindor, Kareem scored 352 points in 10 playoff games for the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 35.2 points and 16.8 rebounds with a 60.8% true-shooting mark.Dylan’s path has looked different. He has not been asked to score like a franchise center from the start, but his efficiency has survived a long Spurs run and a Finals matchup against the New York Knicks.Before Game 5, Harper had already cleared the 300-point threshold while staying above 60% true shooting. He also gave San Antonio valuable Finals minutes, including a 21-point Game 4 performance in the Spurs’ 107-106 loss at Madison Square Garden.That is why Ron’s post landed with force. The standard for rookie playoff production is brutal, and Dylan has reached one that had previously belonged only to Kareem.Read more:Spurs find silver lining as Dylan Harper makes history despite Knicks crushing comebackDylan Harper makes ‘never gonna shoot’ again announcement after terrible Game 3 three-point performanceCeltics guard makes heartwarming admission about brother Dylan Harper in the 2026 NBA Finals

Real Madrid unlikely to spend €150 million on one player; could split the budget across several signingsFor decades, Florentino Perez has been associated with football’s biggest transfer headlines. From Luis Figo and Zinedine Zidane to Cristiano Ronaldo and Jude Bellingham, the Real Madrid president has built a reputation around signing the world’s most sought-after stars.That is why his promise to launch a €150 million bid for a world-class player generated enormous excitement among supporters during the recent presidential election campaign.The promise was eventually followed by a concrete move, with Real Madrid submitting a huge offer for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. The proposal was immediately rejected, but it may have revealed something much bigger about the club’s transfer plans.According to comments made by Spanish journalist Manolo Lama and relayed by Defensa Central, Real Madrid are unlikely to spend €150 million on a single player this summer. Instead, the club may be moving towards a different strategy altogether – one focused on rebuilding the squad rather than chasing one blockbuster signing.The €150 million promiseReal Madrid had a bid rejected for Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)When news emerged that Real Madrid had tested Atletico Madrid’s resolve with a massive offer for Alvarez, many assumed the club were preparing another Galactico-style transfer.The Argentine striker was viewed as one of the few players capable of justifying such an enormous investment, and his rejection immediately sparked questions about what would happen next.That debate has now been fuelled further by Manolo Lama’s assessment of the situation.The veteran journalist believes Real Madrid will not spend €150 million on a single player. While he does not rule out the club investing that amount overall, he expects the money to be distributed across multiple signings rather than being committed to one superstar arrival.If that proves accurate, it would represent a notable shift from the approach that made Perez famous throughout his various spells as president.Real Madrid will strengthen multiple positionsThe club’s transfer activity so far certainly supports that theory. Rather than waiting for one major signing, Real Madrid have already moved aggressively to improve several areas of the squad. Real Madrid have signed Ibrahima Konate. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Denzel Dumfries has arrived for €20 million, while Ibrahima Konate and Bernardo Silva have joined without transfer fees. Viewed individually, none of those moves carry the glamour of a €150 million superstar transfer. Viewed collectively, however, they address several weaknesses that were exposed over the past two seasons.Since the transfer window still has a long way to go, there is also an expectation that more additions could follow before the new season begins.Abandoning the Galactico approach?The temptation at Real Madrid is always to chase the biggest name available.But recent seasons have shown that even the most talented squads can struggle if balance and depth are lacking. That is why this emerging transfer strategy could ultimately benefit Real Madrid far more than a single €150 million signing.Instead of spending a huge fee on one player, Perez could rather focus on building a stronger squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

Behind most prodigies is a slightly unhinged parent, and let’s be honest, it’s usually the dad. Arda Guler’s father was obsessed with Fenerbahce and as soon as his son could walk he was kicking balloons in the living room, positioned strategically on his left side because his dad wanted a left-footer. Arda became a Fenerbahce fan too, and when he first travelled from his home in Ankara to visit the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium in Istanbul, he climbed the steps to see the green grass below and felt mesmerised. His mum had driven him and his sister for five hours to be there and slept in the car overnight to be at the front of the queue for tickets. When he was 13, Guler moved to Istanbul on his own to join Fenerbahce’s academy. His youth coach, Erol Tokgozler, said he’d never seen talent like it. “The ball was like another limb, a third foot. He could do anything that he set his mind on. And the best of all is that in each situation he had two, three, four or five alternatives, five different plans. The location of the field didn’t matter. He plays football with his mind.”Guler was so good he couldn’t make friends in his new city because teammates were annoyed by his rapid rise to the youth team’s No 10 shirt and captaincy. This has been a theme of Guler’s young career, facing new challenges, taking responsibility and embracing the pressure that his talent brings.“He’s an amazing player with special qualities,” says his Turkey teammate and close friend Ferdi Kadioglu. Kadioglu, Brighton’s player of the season, was at Fenerbahce when the teenaged Guler emerged. “He shows amazing things when he’s on the pitch with us, and for sure he will feel the pressure but that makes him also the player he is.”There is a story from his first appearance for the Fenerbahce senior team in a friendly, aged only 15. Guler asked the experienced Brazilian Jose Sosa if he could take a free-kick and the moment was caught on the stadium’s big screen. Sosa told him where to go, but fans were taken aback, and impressed, by the courage of a precocious boy trying to get hold of set-pieces from a senior player. Guler quickly became the fulcrum of Fenerbahce's team (Getty)Guler doesn’t mind a scrap with opposing fans either, most notably when he took abuse from Austrian fans at Euro 2024. Turkey’s young superstar received dogs abuse throughout the game, so when he assisted Turkey’s goal, he turned to the Austrian fans and cupped his ear, a striking sight from a 19-year-old which might be the standout image of his career so far. Guler’s progress was rapid because he was simply too good. He took over Fenerbahce’s No 10 shirt from his idol, Mesut Ozil. He made his Turkey debut aged 17, before Real Madrid approached. Carlo Ancelotti called on FaceTime from a holiday resort wearing a Hawaiian shirt and smoking a cigar, and Guler couldn’t really say no. This season he became more integral to Madrid’s first XI under Xabi Alonso and later Alvaro Arbeloa, playing 33 Liga games including 25 starts. Only Lamine Yamal and Getafe’s Luis Milla recorded more than Guler’s nine assists in the league. He scored a brilliant free-kick against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals, in one of his best performances yet, though he couldn’t prevent Madrid’s exit.Guler scores a free-kick in the Champions League quarter-finals (Reuters)But the highlight of his season was helping Turkey to the World Cup through the play-offs. Guler assisted Kadioglu in a semi-final win over Romania, before they beat Kosovo in the final. “I think now the whole world knows who Arda is,” says Kadioglu. “This season he is playing regularly. He shows himself very well. He had an amazing match [against Bayern], two goals. He went [to Madrid] at a very young age. He saw how good the squad was, he had to make steps with his physicality. You see now he’s getting better and better.”Turkey’s reliance on the play-offs might be misleading. They were in a tough qualifying group with Spain but still picked up 13 points from a possible 18. Vincenzo Montella is an astute manager and Turkey will aim to top Group D containing Australia, Paraguay and the USA. Kenan Yildiz is another brilliant 21-year-old who will play on the wing at the World Cup. “They are top guys outside of the pitch, really normal, always respectable,” says Kadioglu of Guler and Yildiz. “When they are coming to the pitch, they show their qualities. They have really high confidence and what they do with the ball, it’s amazing … They get a bit more attention than the other players.”Kadiolgu and Guler celebrate during the World Cup play-offs (Getty)But there is no doubt who bears the greatest scrutiny and responsibility. Guler’s strong character has earnt him demi-god status at home and beyond. The Turkey national team has 217k followers on Instagram; Guler has nearly 18 million. If social media is a barometer of popularity, fame or even pressure, then it says something that Guler’s Real Madrid teammate Endrick and Barcelona’s Gavi and Yamal are the only other footballers aged 21 or younger with similar followings.Guler’s injury late in the season sent Turkey into a state of national crisis but he’s back, and he’s fit. When Turkey trained in Arizona last week ahead of the tournament, 3,000 people turned up to watch, a large swathe of whom were wearing Real Madrid shirts. There is a hysteria that follows Guler wherever he goes. But he has been treading a path to the World Cup ever since he could walk. It is another stage, his greatest yet.

Report: Liverpool Eye £43m Bundesliga Winger Amid Rival InterestLiverpool Lead Race for Bazoumana Toure as Transfer Battle BuildsReds Move Early for Hoffenheim WingerLiverpool’s recruitment department has rarely been accused of lacking curiosity. According to TEAMtalk, that curiosity has now taken them toward Hoffenheim winger Bazoumana Toure, one of the Bundesliga’s more intriguing young attackers.The 20-year-old Ivory Coast international has become a wanted figure after an eye-catching breakthrough season in Germany. TEAMtalk report that Liverpool have “formally registering their interest” and informed Hoffenheim of their admiration, placing them ahead of Manchester United in what already feels like a crowded Premier League race.Photo: IMAGOToure Profile Fits Liverpool ThinkingToure joined Hoffenheim from Hammarby in the winter of 2025 and quickly made an impression. Five goals and 12 assists in 30 Bundesliga appearances is a strong return for a young winger still learning the rhythms of elite European football.His appeal is obvious. Left-footed, quick, direct and creative, Toure carries the sort of attacking profile clubs chase before the market fully explodes. TEAMtalk describe his “blistering pace, sharp dribbling and creative flair” as key reasons behind the growing interest.For Liverpool, this feels less like a luxury pursuit and more like future planning. Wide forwards are rarely cheap, especially those who combine athleticism with end product before turning 21.Premier League Interest Creates PressureManchester United are also involved, with TEAMtalk sources indicating they see Toure as “a high-upside addition capable of injecting dynamism into their forward line.”Aston Villa and Newcastle United are described as “very interested”, while Brighton and Brentford have also been linked. That list tells its own story. Toure is no longer a secret. He is becoming one of those players whose price can rise simply because too many smart clubs have arrived at the same conclusion.Hoffenheim reportedly want between €40-50million, around £43.1m, and with Toure under contract until 2029 with no release clause, they are in a strong negotiating position.Transfer Decision Carries Risk and RewardLiverpool must decide whether Toure is ready for the Premier League now, or whether his development still needs another season in Germany. That is the central tension.His numbers are persuasive, his profile is exciting and his age makes him a classic long-term investment. Yet Bundesliga promise does not always travel cleanly into Premier League reality.Still, if Liverpool believe Toure can become a genuine difference-maker, early movement matters. Waiting for certainty usually means paying more. Sometimes the edge comes from acting before everyone else feels completely safe.TEAMtalk’s report suggests Liverpool have already taken that step. Now the question is whether admiration becomes action.Our View – Anfield Index AnalysisFrom a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, Bazoumana Toure is exactly the sort of name that sparks interest because he feels like a recruitment department player rather than a headline-chasing one.The numbers are strong, five goals and 12 assists in 30 Bundesliga games, but the more interesting part is the profile. Liverpool need wide players who can stretch games, beat defenders and create chaos without everything needing to run through one superstar. Toure sounds like that kind of footballer.The price, around £43.1m, is not small. Yet in the current market, for a 20-year-old winger with Bundesliga production, it is not outrageous either. If Liverpool wait another year and he improves again, that figure could look modest.The Manchester United link adds spice, naturally, but Liverpool should not treat this as a rivalry transfer. They should treat it as a football decision. Does he fit the system? Can he handle the physical jump? Is his end product repeatable?If the answers are yes, Liverpool should move seriously. These are the deals that can look bold in June and obvious by December.

A couple of years ago, the slogan, at least outside the dressing room, was “No Scotland, no party”. Now it is different. The core of Andy Robertson’s message was “no regrets”.No man has captained Scotland in more games, nor led them in three major tournaments. But the first two have provided disappointment. Instead of no regrets, there were no wins. Two years ago, Scotland opened Euro 2024, but it was a false start for them, walloped 5-1 by Germany. Performances were more respectable in Euro 2020 but the outcome was the same: one point apiece.Now the objective is to go one better and win a game, to do something that has eluded every previous Scotland side and reach the knockout stages of a tournament. “We want to do something special,” said Steve Clarke, a manager who often deals in cautious rhetoric allowing himself to dream. A first game against Haiti provides the kind of opportunity that facing Germany two years ago did not, to get an early win. “The last Euros was quite unique,” recalled Robertson. “We were in the opener against the host nation which is never an easy task. When it came we maybe weren't ready to go and strike. Now we're locked in, we're ready.”Ready, he hopes, to go where no Scotland team has gone before. “Don’t come home too soon,” the title of Scotland’s 1998 World Cup song, had a depressive realism too it; every Scotland side have come home too soon. This time, Robertson urged, when they return to Glasgow, it must be with a sense they have done their utmost. Scott McTominay during Scotland training (PA)“I don't think we want any regrets,” he said. “When I look back at the last two Euros you potentially look at certain games with regret. You never want to leave any match with regrets. That's the aim.” He could leave Liverpool with none, with the feeling he had given his all over nine years that brought remarkable success. The left-back played in three Champions League finals. Winning in 2019, he said last month, was about the best 24 hours of his life, family apart. And yet one ambition will only be belatedly realised now, at 32. "I've been very fortunate to play in big games, win trophies, play for the biggest club in the world but for me playing for your country is that one step above,” he said. “To do it at a World Cup is a dream come true.”Scotland got there in a manner that brought reminders of their World Cup history. Archie Gemmill’s wonder goal against the Netherlands in 1978 stood almost unchallenged as Scotland’s greatest strike, until, on the same surreal evening, Scott McTominay went airborne with an overhead kick against Denmark and Kenny McLean completed a play-off win from the half-way line.Gemmill’s goal was immortalised in Trainspotting; the words of Ewan McGregor’s monologue – “Choose Life” – have been customised in a new advert, read by Lewis Capaldi, devoted to McTominay, with the message: “Choose Scotland”. McTominay, born in Lancaster, did.The Napoli midfielder provided a scare when he missed training on Thursday due to illness. Clarke allayed fears about a talisman. “Ready to go,” he pronounced.He nevertheless sought to relieve the pressure on McTominay to be the matchwinner. “I think I have 26 superstars here,” he said. “If you try and put so much on to one player is not fair. Some daft coach put him as a centre-half five years ago, obviously he's not a centre-half.”Scotland manager Steve Clarke during a press conference at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough (PA)That was a self-deprecating reference to his deployment of McTominay in a back three in Euro 2020. Now McTominay and John McGinn seem to represent Scotland’s best chances of victory, as Gemmill once did."We hope we inspire the next generation to go out and kick a ball with their brother, mates or sister,” said Robertson, seemingly referencing the commercialisation and costs of this World Cup. “I did that with my brother in the back garden and with my mates.Members of the public pass by a mural featuring Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay on Princes Street in Edinburgh (PA)“Society and football has become more expensive, but people can always kick a can down the road as they say. This is obviously on the world stage. We see back home how excited kids, parents and grandparents are.”Some of the excited relatives are in Boston. “A big Clarke clan here,” said the Scotland manager, who has brought his wife, three children, two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. Boston is a city with a huge Irish influence. For a week or so, however, it may have been taken over by the Scots. After Haiti, it is Morocco in Foxborough, too, with Brazil in Miami and then, Scotland want, at least one more game. And after that, if Robertson gets his way, a legacy. He added: “We just hope after the World Cup the buzz is still there."

☕️ Modric, Vinicius, Ferran Torres... the 5️⃣ stories beyond the World CupThe world of football keeps turning beyond what’s happening at the World Cup. It’s transfer season, and these are the five non-World Cup stories that could set today’s agenda. 😢 Modric, close to hanging up his bootsAccording to As, the legendary Croatia and Real Madrid player is not planning to renew with Milan and, barring a surprise, we will see the last drops of his football in this World Cup.🌼 Vini keeps playing the waiting gameThe Brazilian star spoke — and didn’t speak — yesterday at the Brazil national team’s press conference. He was asked about his renewal with Real Madrid and preferred to dodge the question. "Right now I’m focused on the World Cup. I’ll talk about everything related to Real Madrid when the tournament is over. I’m focused on my country," the forward said.🇫🇷 If Barcola leaves, PSG are thinking about FerranAccording to Luca Bendoni (Sky Sports), PSG have included Ferran Torres on their list of targets for the current transfer window.Sport says Ferran wants to renew until 2027.📺 The world discovers Spanish VAR...Controversy in the USA-Paraguay match with a Spanish referee under scrutiny. Almirón went down after coming together with Ream, and Makkelie, the main referee, showed Ream a yellow card, but was then called by the VAR, led by Del Cerro Grande, to review the incident even though it was a foul outside the box. The replay showed Almirón diving, and Makkelie decided to overturn the foul and show Almirón a yellow card instead. As shown on screen, the VAR protocol was applied under the case of "mistaken identity."However, that provision is only used when the referee intends to sanction one specific person but, by mistake, sanctions someone else. The decision was correct, but outside the protocol...🇺🇸 Lewandowski is in the USAWe imagine to enjoy a World Cup match or two, but mainly to finalize his move to the Chicago Fire. He would sign for three years, according to Fabrizio Romano. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Kelvin Kuo / Los Angeles Times via Getty ImagesThe USA kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign in style, securing a 4-1 win over Paraguay.Mauricio Pochettino’s side were not among the favourites for the tournament prior to proceedings getting underway, but their stock has certainly risen after such an impressive opening match.Chris Richards had been struggling for fitness in the month leading up to the World Cup getting underway, but he started on Friday evening and has now matched a record not seen on FIFA’s biggest stage since 1966.Photo by Omar Vega/Getty ImagesChris Richards completed all of his passes during USMNT’s win over ParaguayWhile he may not be the biggest name in world football, the Crystal Palace centre-back is a key player for the USMNT.Having him fit for this summer’s World Cup is a huge boost for the co-host, as became clear after a staggering statistic emerged in the aftermath of last night’s match.As per statisticians Opta: “Chris Richards completed all 83 passes he attempted for the #USMNT against Paraguay, the most passes with a 100 percent accuracy rate by any player in a FIFA World Cup match since 1966.”Along with Richards, the likes of Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun are going to be key figures for the USMNT this summer as they aim to better their best-ever run at the World Cup.They have previously finished third, all the way back at the 1930 competition, but have not made it past the quarter-finals since 2002.Now, Pochettino’s men have a good few days off as they prepare for their second Group D campaign of the World Cup.They will take on Australia on Friday, June 20, in another match where they should be favourites to secure all three points.Their group-stage campaign is then rounded out with a meeting against Turkey, who are perhaps their toughest opponents, on June 25.Read more:World Cup 2026 Group E Guide: Germany seek redemption vs Ecuador, Ivory Coast and CuracaoZlatan Ibrahimovic kicking IShowSpeed off Fox Sports after Cristiano Ronaldo prediction is going viralWhat needs to happen for USA vs Iran at World Cup 2026

Head coach Steve Clarke faces the biggest team talk of his career [PA Media]Steve Clarke is ready to make the most important speech of his managerial life, a speech that a succession of Scotland managers over the last 28 largely painful years would have given anything to make.What for so long had seemed like a pipe dream - as attainable as a lottery win - is now a reality staring Scotland in the face. After missing out on six World Cups in a row, and maybe surrendering to fatalism along the way, game day is upon us here in the United States.We can play these games forever - the old prime ministers and presidents when Scotland were last at a World Cup, the things that are commonplace now but were not invented then, the music that was in vogue, the simplicity of the way the media was back then compared to the revolution that has happened since.All of that stuff reflects the passage of time - more than 10,000 days - and the way things have changed. It's been a relative eternity. Sometimes, to the Tartan Army, it must have felt that days like these would never come again.Scotland's McTominay 'ready to go' after illnessScotland boss Clarke by those who know him bestIs Shankland finally the striker Scotland have been waiting for?We know that Clarke keeps his emotions in check most of the time, but we also know that he can be moving when he wants to be, as he was when addressing his players before the momentous Denmark game at Hampden in November, the night that electrified a nation.All of the work is done now, all of the analysis of Haiti, all of the match strategy and the mechanisms to cope with the heat and humidity are firmly in place. Clarke probably doesn't need to talk to the soul of these players anymore, because none of them need any reminding of what they're playing for here.That's not to say that Clarke won't go there. They are the lucky ones - the players chosen to start and the cavalry that will come off the bench. The history of Scottish football is loaded with really good and truly great players who have never had the privilege of playing at a World Cup.To go back in time - John Greig, Tommy Gemmell, Billy McNeill, Ron Yeats. None of them got this far. Bobby Murdoch, Jim Baxter, Bertie Auld, Stevie Chalmers the same. Jimmy Johnstone made a World Cup squad but never played.That list is in no way exhaustive. It's just a snapshot of the legends who didn't get to do what Clarke's men are about to do. From the more recent crop, there's James McFadden and Scott Brown, Darren Fletcher and Barry Ferguson, Kenny Miller and Callum McGregor. You could go on and on citing the ones who missed out, sometimes narrowly, sometimes overwhelmingly and, at times, embarrassingly.Best look forward, though. Because forward is a happy place, for now. In Charlotte this week, Scotland have been relaxed but focused, maybe a little more chilled than they were this time two years ago when heading into an ill-fated Euros campaign pockmarked by negativity and failure on the pitch.Clarke says he's learned the lessons of the last two Euros and is determined to enjoy this tournament. If you ask him about regret, he'll tell you about those six games, three goals (one an own goal and another a deflection) and no wins across two campaigns. They never really fired a shot in either of them.Captain Andy Robertson referenced this on Friday. If they're true to their mantra then they're giving this a rattle and if they die in the group stage as every one of their seven predecessors have done at World Cups then they won't die wondering about what might have been had they been more brave.Lady Luck has been by Scotland's side on their path to America, poor performances in qualifying against Belarus and Greece at home still ending up as wins. There was a freakish nature to some of it. They beat themselves up over both of those performances - "jobby" was midfielder John McGinn's description and no bard could have come up with a better description.They then went to Greece last November and lost. Only a miracle in Copenhagen - where Belarus, under siege for practically 90 minutes, somehow managed to draw 2-2 - kept their hopes of automatic qualification alive.Sitting with McFadden that evening in Athens, he said he was certain that Scotland would beat Denmark the following week and go through. He was utterly unshakeable in his view. Why? Fate, he replied. It just felt destined to happen. And he was right.But the way it happened? If Belarus' shock draw with Denmark was weird then the manner of Scotland's victory - and the quality of the goals scored - was other worldly. An overhead kick from Scott McTominay, a Lewis Ferguson corner that was going in until Lawrence Shankland helped it on its way, a curler to beat all curlers from Kieran Tierney and then a fourth from the other end of the earth - or the halfway line to be precise - from Kenny McLean.It was the perfect night, a night that further reinforced the bond between these players, which is genuinely tight. That's always said, but this group is extremely close, a club side in national team colours, a band of brothers who have each other's back.There was a collective swoon when news came through on Thursday that McTominay, the totem, had an iffy tummy, but he's good now. The Napoli midfielder with the Midas Touch probably just waved his hand over his stomach and, hey presto, he was healed.What's absolutely fascinating about this game is the options that Clarke has and the way he's talking about the utilisation of his bench, hinting that he might keep a heavy hitter in reserve.On more than one occasion he's suggested that the team that finishes the game might have to be as strong, or stronger, than the one that starts. It's inconceivable, for this game, that he'll go away from his new approach of playing Shankland and Che Adams up front, so one of his star midfielders most probably won't start.Scotland are buoyed by the eight goals they scored in their last games. There were caveats - Curacao had 10 men for much of it at Hampden and fell away to lose 4-1 and Bolivia were, well, not all that good.But confidence is a valuable thing, no matter how you get it. Clarke, as is his wont, has been talking up the threat of Haiti, referring regularly to their size, their power and their athleticism.In warm-up games, Haiti hammered New Zealand 4-0 before New Zealand lost just 1-0 to England soon after. That form line makes them a theat. Haiti are a distant 83rd in the Fifa world rankings, but Clarke has been at pains to point out their strengths. One of those strengths is a mental fortitude that comes with representing a country that is riven by crisis and humanitarian disaster.The capital, Port-au-Prince, is controlled by armed gangs - instability, hunger, killings, kidnappings and sexual violence is rife. Public services have collapsed. Thousands of schools have closed, 10% of the population have fled. The football team can't play any games at home. Two years into his role as head coach, Sebastien Migne still hasn't been able to set foot in Haiti.That level of hardship could breed some amount of determination. Clarke knows it and you sense that his players know it, too. Scotland have played 23 matches at World Cups and have won only four, a sobering stat when you set it alongside the memories of nightmares past, the loss to Costa Rica in 1990 chief among them.So Clarke is taking nothing lightly. This is a must-win given the scale of what's to come against Morocco and Brazil. Nobody in Clarke's camp is hiding from that. They have said repeatedly that they're here to make history as the first Scotland team to make it through a group.They have a vast travelling army with them and millions more at home, a strange amalgam of positivity and anxiety, belief and fear. All human emotion on the grandest stage. Thrilling and terrifying. What a time to be alive.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente talks Lamine, Fermin, Gavi: ‘He will be available against Cape Verde’Barcelona’s influence on the Spain national team remains as strong as ever, and Luis de la Fuente’s latest interview offered a revealing glimpse into just how important several Blaugrana stars are to his plans.Speaking to AS, the Spain manager discussed everything from Lamine Yamal’s fitness concerns to Gavi’s unique impact inside the dressing room. He also expressed sympathy for another Barcelona player whose World Cup dream was cruelly interrupted at the worst possible moment.Spain never stopped worrying about LamineLamine Yamal’s injury setback earlier this year created anxiety not only in Barcelona but also within the Spain camp.As one of the country’s most influential young players, there were genuine fears that the recovery process could take longer than initially expected, potentially putting his World Cup participation at risk.De la Fuente admitted that the coaching staff were following the situation closely from the moment the injury occurred.When asked about the Barcelona forward’s condition, the Spain boss explained,“Let’s take it one step at a time. They’re improving every day, and the treatment and instructions we received from their clubs and the information they provided us with matched reality perfectly. De la Fuente is delighted with Lamine Yamal’s recovery. (Photo by Coral Scoles-Coburn/Getty Images)“They’ll all be available for Cape Verde. Now, that doesn’t mean they’ll play. We’ll see how we all feel. “They come first. And we’ll see in that match whether we need to give them some playing time or not.”The national team coach then revealed just how concerned Spain had been when the injury first occurred. Reflecting on the situation, he said,“We were very concerned because we saw that it was an injury that could keep him out for three months, or even two, but that month and a half could certainly have dragged on. “But the recovery times we’re seeing are exceptional in terms of both the timeline and the quality of his recovery. And we’re not surprised, but very pleased. “Very happy because we’re seeing that his recovery is cutting down on the time needed, and he’s getting better every day. And that leads us to believe he’ll be perfectly fit for the first match.”De la Fuente devastated by Fermin’s injuryWhile there was positive news regarding Yamal, the Spain manager also spoke about a Barcelona player who was not as fortunate.Fermin Lopez had put himself firmly into contention after an outstanding run of form, only for injury to halt his momentum at the worst possible time.Fermin Lopez will miss the World Cup. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)De la Fuente did not hide his disappointment when discussing the midfielder’s absence.“The absences that hurt the most are caused by injuries. In this case, Fermín’s latest one. A player who was in fantastic, exceptional form, with such confidence, such assurance. “It could have been his World Cup. And he goes down with an injury.”Gavi’s mentalityPerhaps the most interesting part of the interview arrived when De la Fuente was asked why Gavi continues to be one of the most loved figures within the national team setup.The Barcelona midfielder has long been admired for his intensity, but the Spain coach believes his influence goes far beyond what many see on matchdays.“I wish you could see how he’s training. He’s so full of enthusiasm.“There’s one important aspect, apart from the football itself and the players’ fitness: motivation. And motivation can sometimes turn any situation around. “Gavi is a very important player because he has fantastic energy. He demands a lot from his teammates. He demands a lot because he trains with such energy, vitality and enthusiasm… And that’s infectious,” he concluded.

US head coach Mauricio Pochettino was effusive in his praise for the 70,000 crowd in Los Angeles (Frederic J. BROWN)United States coach Mauricio Pochettino refused to single out any individual player for praise following the co-hosts' dream World Cup opening win, insisting the 4-1 victory on Friday over Paraguay was a collective effort.The US demolished Paraguay on an electric night in Los Angeles, with Folarin Balogun bagging a brace and Gio Reyna scoring a late stunner, plus an early own goal."It's not only to talk about some names, it's about the collective," said Pochettino."It's not only Balo or different players that performed. I think the team was amazing. Not only the starting 11 but all the players around and on the bench."Pressed by a journalist at his post-game conference about the performance of US talisman Christian Pulisic, Pochettino refused to budge."You push me to talk about names, and it's about the team, it's a collective performance. Of course, he was amazing," said the coach.He then went on to name nearly every member of the US lineup, praising each as also "amazing."Pochettino was also effusive in his praise for the 70,000 crowd in Los Angeles.Despite some media reports suggesting that the US public is not as invested in the tournament as other World Cup hosts -- particularly with the ongoing NBA Finals drawing eyeballs away from the soccer -- the atmosphere was raucous in the Los Angeles Stadium."On behalf of the whole team, massive thank you to the fans, because the energy that they relate to the team was amazing, and we can do amazing things with if the fans are in this way," said Pochettino.The US is now in a strong position to progress from Group D, which also contains next Friday's opposition Australia, and Turkey."We are so happy, but this is only the start," said Pochettino."It's still two games to play. We need to enjoy this start to the tournament, but know that we need to keep going and try to improve and try to do better in the next game, because all the games are very competitive."amz/ami

All the madness you missed in USA v Paraguay 🤩The United States won their first World Cup match in Los Angeles with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay, who only managed a few shots in the second half. The rest of the game turned into a real American showcase, including a Bobadilla own goal after a superb move by Pulisic (7'), a Balogun brace (31' and 45'+5), and a goal from G. Reyna (90'+8).Paraguay’s only goal came from Mauricio (73'), but now let’s take a look at everything you probably missed from the American night.📲 Everyone at SoFi Stadium... except Trump, who calls PochettinoAt SoFi Stadium, the parade of stars started in the stands: Tom Cruise, David Beckham, George Lucas (creator of Star Wars), Paris Hilton, and many more. Donald Trump, who stayed in Washington, was absent and represented instead by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.The American president still made sure to show his support for the team by calling Pochettino and the whole squad: “You have a great chance of going all the way,” he said, in a ritual call for which captain Tim Ream did not seem particularly engaged.😭 When Henry and Ibra saw SpeedOn its pre-match show, Fox Sports featured Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry, which quickly led to a funny moment after a comment from Alexi Lalas, the former American player. The pundit spots someone and says: “What do you call him? A real moron”, which in American usage means “a complete idiot,” but in standard English sounds more like “a total imbecile.” Henry’s face says it all. Titi really is a meme machine, no doubt about it! The two former stars had already put on a show with their technique on the pre-match set.But above all, the two players delighted fans with Speed, the famous American streamer, who couldn’t resist reminding everyone of his love for CR7: “Portugal are going to win the World Cup,” he told Fox Sports, before being interrupted by Ibrahimovic and Henry, who showed no mercy! 🤣 Speed the next FIFA president?The same Speed, streaming throughout the entire match, also chatted with Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president. Who offered him his job for a few minutes!🚔 The most pathetic pitch invasion attempt in the worldWe often see successful pitch invasions on screen. Rarely the failed ones, because by definition they stay in the stands. An American fan tried last night to have his moment of glory by running onto the pitch, but he couldn’t get past security, who were waiting for him. No idea what he was expecting when he jumped, with the least surprising fake-out in the world! 🗽 A perfect night and a historic brace for BalogunFolarin Balogun’s brace, along with a disallowed goal, made American history: he became the first U.S. player to score twice in a World Cup match since Bert Patenaude on July 17, 1930, in the very first World Cup in history. A nice historical wink: both braces were scored against Paraguay. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

DHARAMSHALA, India (AP) — Rain has delayed the toss and the start of the first match of a three-match one-day international series between India and Afghanistan on Saturday.It is the first bilateral ODI cricket series between the countries. The teams have only met at World Cups and Asia Cups in the one-day format, with India winning three of the four matches and the other ending in a tie.India comes into the match having lost three of its past five ODIs while Afghanistan has won four in a row. Last week, India completed an innings and 300-run win over Afghanistan in a one-off test inside three days.The second ODI is scheduled for Wednesday at Lucknow and the third on June 20 in Chennai.___AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

World Cup 2026 analyst Alexi Lalas left his fellow Fox panelists stunned after hurling a profane insult at James Corden on live television.During Friday’s World Cup coverage on Fox, a video package played advertisingFIFA World Cup on FOX After Hours with James Corden, after which Lalas was asked his thoughts on the divisive TV host.“Can we talk about James Corden for a second?” presenter Rebecca Lowe asked.Lalas was first to jump in, responding, “What do you guys call them? A ... full kit w*****, right?”Lowe, and fellow panelists Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović, were stunned. But Lalas continued, “He’s all dressed up and ready to go.”Rebecca Lowe, Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović were gobsmacked by Alexi Lalas’s profane insult (Fox Sports)After stuttering for a moment and taking a beat to recover from Lalas’s off-the-cuff remark, Lowe joked, “Okay, lucky we’re on American TV.”“Because the W-word on British TV ...” she continued before indicating that it was a major no-no.A “full kit w*****” is British slang used in soccer culture to mock an adult who wears the complete professional playing uniform — including the jersey, shorts, and socks — outside of actually playing a match. Corden appears in a full Team USA training kit in the promo videos for the new after hours show.Several World Cup viewers were quick to catch the remark. “I dont know if Alexi knows how crazy that is. W***** means J***-o**. For real, James Corden IS a full kit w*****, but wow,” one person wrote on X.World Cup 2026 pundit Alexi Lalas stunned Fox panelists with an expletive-filled James Corden remark on live TV (Getty)Some misheard the remark, with one person writing, “Alexi Lalas just called James Corden a “f***ing w*****” on live TV and the reactions were incredible. Hero moment for him, IMO.”The 2026 World Cup officially kicked off Thursday as Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0. Team USA will play Friday night against Paraguay.Corden’s late night show premiered Thursday on Fox and will run through July 15. Alongside former England soccer captain Rio Ferdinand and comedian Ian Karmel, the former Late Late Show host will recap all of the day’s World Cup action during each hour-long episode.Speaking about the show at a Fox upfront presentation, Corden said: “Every night after the games, we’re going to be trying to have a lighthearted look at the World Cup, talking about the games, talking about anything that may have happened that day, and what we’re going to do is make it feel like if you couldn’t be out with your friends in a bar that night, we’ll be there to have some fun.”

Jose Mourinho not counting on Real Madrid homegrown star for next seasonEvery new manager who arrives at a club comes with a list of players he trusts and another list of players who must fight to change his mind.If recent reports are accurate, Raul Asencio may already find himself in the second category under new manager Jose Mourinho.According to journalist Miguel Serrano, Mourinho is not counting on the Real Madrid academy graduate as part of his plans for next season. It is a significant development given that Asencio was viewed by many as a useful squad option capable of contributing to the first team.However, Mourinho appears determined to alter the defensive department, and that could leave the young defender searching for a solution before the transfer window closes.Mourinho has a clear defensive structureOne of the first tasks facing Mourinho this summer is rebuilding a Real Madrid defence that has struggled for consistency over the last two seasons.Mourinho is not counting on Asencio. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)According to the journalist, the Portuguese manager wants five dependable defensive options capable of rotating throughout a demanding campaign. As things stand, Mourinho sees Ibrahima Konate, Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen and Eder Militão as four of those trusted centre-back options.The club are also actively exploring the market for another defender, preferably someone capable of operating both as a left-back and centre-back, or a high-level central defender who can immediately compete for a starting role.That search is significant because it effectively leaves Asencio outside Mourinho’s preferred defensive group.Rather than carrying six senior central defenders, the new Real Madrid coach prefers to use talented Castilla prospects such as Diego Aguado or Joan Martinez when emergency cover is required.Asencio faces difficult decisionAsencio might have to leave Real Madrid. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)The challenge for Asencio now is that his situation is not entirely straightforward because the defender wants to remain at Real Madrid and continue fighting for opportunities. If that proves impossible, he is expected to seek a destination capable of matching the €5 million salary agreed in the contract he signed last year.What makes the situation even more intriguing is that Asencio has not performed poorly when called upon. The academy graduate has shown commitment, professionalism and enough quality to suggest he can play at a high level.The issue appears to be less about his performances and more about Mourinho’s vision for the squad.

Raum praises Brown amid battle for Germany left-back slot: “He had an outstanding season"Despite seemingly losing his starting spot to Nathaniel Brown, David Raum welcomes the competition for Germany's left-back slot. “He had an outstanding season, even though Eintracht Frankfurt struggled," Raum told Sky Germany, praising his compatriot Brown.“He fought his way into our team. I've had some physical problems lately, but I'm getting fitter all the time,” the 28-year-old added.Regardless, the Leipzig clubman comes across as the ultimate team player, vowing to help Germany at the World Cup in whatever way:"We're very well-staffed in that position. If I'm not playing the team can still rely on me. The coach therefore has a wealth of options.”In a recent media round at the World Cup, Raum even hinted that Brown may get the nod for Germany's tournament opener with Curaçao.

In this May 31, 2006 file photo, film critic Gene Shalit is seen during a toast with "Today" show cast and crew at the end of Katie Couric's final show, in New York. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)2026-06-12T23:25:13Z NEW YORK (AP) — Gene Shalit, a movie critic and arts reporter for the “Today” show over four decades who was known for his puffy hair, oversized handlebar mustache and affection for groan-inducing puns, has died. He was 100.Shalit’s family announced the death Friday to NBC News, saying in a statement that he “passed away peacefully today after 100 years of an amazing life.”Shalit joined “Today” as a contributor in 1970 and became arts editor in 1973, later settling in for his segment, “Critic’s Corner.” When he left the show in 2010, he was one of the last high-profile film critics on a major network. “What resonated above his unusual appearance was his incredible wit, his remarkable intelligence. But he didn’t pound you over the head with it. He amused you. He enlightened and amused whatever subject he was on,” Guy Ludwig, Shalit’s producer for more than 20 years, wrote in an essay at the time of Shalit’s retirement. It was no coincidence that Chicago critics Roger Ebert and Gene Siskel’s local “thumbs-up, thumbs-down” movie-review program, “Sneak Previews,” went national on PBS in the late 1970s and that “Today” show’s ABC rival, “Good Morning America,” hired Joel Siegel to be its movie critic in 1981. “Shalit was instrumental in changing the balance of critical power in America. When he began his ‘Today’ tenure, newspapers and magazines were the primary sources for movie reviews. That’s where cinematic opinion was sparked and shaped,” The Plain Dealer wrote in 2010, calling Shalit “Daniel Boone in a bow tie and Groucho glasses.” Read More Magazine work led to NBC offerShalit started as an entertainment columnist for McCall’s magazine, eventually becoming senior film critic for Look magazine in 1968 and writing for Ladies’ Home Journal. His popularity in magazines led to an offer from NBC.“No one at NBC had seen him. They’d only read his stuff. So he walked into this executive’s office and the executive took one look at him and said, ‘Mr. Shalit, have you ever thought of radio?’” wrote Ludwig. “They didn’t know how the public would react to someone who looked so different from people who were typically on TV in 1967.” On the air, Shalit was a middle-of-the-road critic. Of 1986’s classic “Stand By Me,” he said it was different from other movies about youth “because of instead of grossing you out, ‘Stand by You’ is engrossing.”“Many critics will give so much of the plot of a movie away that they destroy the movie for the viewer. ... I just don’t give away the story,” he told The Associated Press in 1993. Highlights in wordsHe liked “Enemy at the Gates,” starring Jude Law, calling it “a vivid dramatization of one of history’s titanic turning points.” But he called “Brokeback Mountain “wildly overpraised, but not by me” and drew condemnation from GLAAD for calling Jake Gyllenhaal’s character, Jack, a “sexual predator.” Shalit apologized.He called “Frozen” “very cool.” He said the oddball title of “The Men Who Stare at Goats” was “heard to bleat,” and his review of “The Lovely Bones” read in part: “There’s no bones about it.”He began reviewing on air the year of “Patton” and “Love Story” and ended his run with a critique of “Shrek Forever After,” of which he noted that the “bellow fellow is now a mellow fellow.” One highlight of this tenure was his descent into a fit of giggles while interviewing Carol Channing. He called a remake of “King Kong” so “gargantuan that I must create new words to describe it: fabularious … a brilliantological humongousness of marvelosity.” His take on Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Alice Walker’s “The Color Purple”: “It should be against the law not to see it.”In a 1981 interview with John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, Belushi said Shalit’s hair looked like “an ant farm on fire.” Nevertheless, he peppered his guest with so many questions about their daily life that it felt like therapy. He asked both comedians what their last meals would be. “What do you want to be doing 10 years from now, John Belushi?” Shalit asked. “Fiddler on the Roof” Belushi replied. During his tenure, he traded quips with anchors ranging from Edwin Newman, Barbara Walters and Jane Pauley to Tom Brokaw, Bryant Gumbel, Katie Couric, Al Roker and Meredith Vieira. Gumbel was not always a fan, once saying Shalit’s reviews “are often late and his interviews aren’t very good.” The critique came in what was supposed to be a confidential memo to Marty Ryan, the show’s executive producer at the time.In 1994, while in St. Pete Beach, Florida, to cover Major League Baseball spring training, a car hit Shalit as he was crossing a street and broke his leg. After that, “Today” began recording his movie reviews in his home studio. Early lifeHe was born in New York and grew up in Morristown, New Jersey, starting his grammar school’s first newspaper before writing a humor column for the newspaper while a student at Morristown High School. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1949.Shalit played the bassoon, but he said he started out on the clarinet.“I didn’t practice for a few weeks and the teacher got furious,” he recalled in 1988, before playing bassoon in a New York City fundraiser. “He took away my clarinet and as punishment he said, ‘From now on, you’re gonna play THIS.’”In 1987, he edited a book called “Laughing Matters: A Celebration of American Humor,” saying he wanted to introduce and reintroduce such old and new masters of American humor as Mark Twain, James Thurber and Russell Baker.Shalit was regularly mocked on “Saturday Night Live” by cast member Horatio Sanz, who would appear on the “Weekend Update” desk dressed as Shalit and go on extended, barely coherent rants that punned the title of every movie he reviewed. Shalit also made cameos on “Sesame Street,” “Family Guy” and “SpongeBob SquarePants.”Shalit was predeceased in 1978 by his wife, Nancy Lewis, and had six children. ___This story has been corrected to show that a movie Shalit liked was “Enemy at the Gates,” not “Defiance.” It also removes a reference to Daniel Craig, who was in “Defiance” but not “Enemy at the Gates.” MARK KENNEDY Kennedy is a theater, TV, music, food and obit writer and editor for The Associated Press, as well as a critic for theater, movies and music. He is based in New York City. twitter mailto

Anthropic co-founder and President Daniela Amodei, left, shakes hands with Snowflake CEO Sridhar Ramaswamy during the keynote presentaton at Snowflake Summit 26 Monday, June 1, 2026, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)2026-06-13T02:29:35Z WASHINGTON (AP) — AI giant Anthropic said Friday it has taken its latest artificial intelligence models, known as Fable 5 and Mythos 5, offline to comply with a directive from the Trump administration to prevent their use by foreign nationals.The export controls mark the U.S. government’s most significant step to date to restrict access to the most advanced AI models. Anthropic released Fable widely this week. That model is a limited version of the even more advanced Mythos, to which the company has tightly limited access due to cybersecurity fears.In a statement, Anthropic said it disagrees with the government’s handling of the matter, saying it received the directive from the U.S. government Friday afternoon and it did not specify the national security concerns. “We believe the government should have the ability to block unsafe deployments, as part of a statutory process that is transparent, fair, clear, and grounded in technical facts,” the company said. “This action does not adhere to those principles.” Anthropic called it a “misunderstanding” and said it hopes to restore access to the models “as soon as possible.” The Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.The action comes 10 days after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to establish a framework for the federal government to vet the national security risks of the most advanced AI systems for up to a month before their public release. Participation by AI developers would be voluntary, the order said. 获取更多RSS：https://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Ships participate in Operation Sail between the Statue of Liberty and the World Trade Center to celebrate the U.S. bicentennial in New York on July 4, 1976. (AP Photo/Eddie Adams, File)2026-06-13T04:16:47Z WASHINGTON (AP) — In 1976’s “ Rocky,” heavyweight champion Apollo Creed arrives for the title fight dressed as George Washington, reenacting the crossing of the Delaware as models costumed as the Statue of Liberty lead the way.After entering the ring, Apollo switches into an Uncle Sam costume. “I want YOU!” he roars as he points to Rocky Balboa, the far less flamboyant palooka he’s chosen for this bicentennial bout in Philadelphia.Then the two boxers pound the daylights out of each other.It’s as accurate a representation of the American bicentennial vibe as has ever been put on film — plenty of fireworks, but not much thought about how 200 years of independence led to this.I was 13 years old in 1976. Kids my age — the tail end of the Baby Boom, or the vanguard of Generation X — grew up skeptical of the government. We had outlasted the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, with the occasional moment of joy — the moon landing, say — to break the gloom. The state of the union was intact, even if many Americans were still on edge. My family lived in Newport News, Virginia, not far from the Historic Triangle of Jamestown, Yorktown and Williamsburg. So there was plenty of buzz surrounding the bicentennial. President Gerald Ford and his wife, Betty, took a carriage ride through Colonial Williamsburg, foreign leaders came to visit, and the living museum regularly staged reenactments of the events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Ford and plenty of other dignitaries went to New York for what the president called “the greatest Fourth of July any of us will ever see.” Operation Sail was a floating parade of 16 tall ships and more than 100 smaller vessels from around the world — including, even, the Soviet Union. It was a boon for the beleaguered Big Apple, proving that “New Yorkers could get along, even during difficult times,” according to the Gotham Center for New York History. Read More All aboard the Freedom TrainFor history buffs who couldn’t make the trip east, there was the American Freedom Train, a 26-car behemoth that toured all 48 contiguous states. It displayed two centuries of artifacts like George Washington’s copy of the Constitution, the original Louisiana Purchase, Judy Garland’s dress from “The Wizard of Oz” and a moon rock. Merle Haggard even released a song about it.I had a nifty 3D poster of the Freedom Train on my bedroom wall. A different poster captured everyone’s eye later in 1976 — one featuring “Charlie’s Angels” star Farrah Fawcett-Majors.It’s patriotic in its own way. There’s Farrah, sporting big hair, a blinding white smile and a red swimsuit, posed in front of a red, white and blue blanket. The color scheme may not have been intentional, but it might as well be titled “All-American Girl” for its presentation of what much of society saw as one. There were plenty of more deliberate anniversary collectibles out there. A quick search of eBay in 2026 digs up hundreds of collectible plates, glasses, beer mugs and bumper stickers. The government unleashed special quarters, stamps and license plates. And of course Madison Avenue jumped in, selling bicentennial cereal, candy, beer and soda. You could get a different 7-Up can for each of the 50 states. Even the creator of the Pet Rock — the preposterous 1975 phenomenon that was, yes, a rock in a box — tried to get in on the act. That fad, alas, had run its course, and the Bicentennial Pet Rock flopped. You’d have been better off buying a Pez dispenser with the head of Paul Revere or Betsy Ross.Broadcast television — remember, we only had three networks — was more subdued. For kids, ABC’s beloved “Schoolhouse Rock!” spun off “America Rock.” But while that cartoon did include some history, it’s best remembered for the mournful civics lesson “I’m Just a Bill.”More prominent was CBS News’ “Bicentennial Minute.” Starting July 4, 1974, barely a month before President Richard Nixon resigned, it ran every night in prime time, presenting the news from 200 years earlier. It was so unavoidable that sitcoms like “All in the Family” referred to it; “Saturday Night Live,” which debuted in 1975, paid tribute with a “Bisexual Minute.” Still, all three networks pulled out the stops on July 4, 1976. Walter Cronkite led the pack with 16 hours of coverage on CBS, while “Bob Hope’s Bicentennial Star-Spangled Spectacular” (“the show that took 200 years to produce”) on NBC celebrated with Sammy Davis Jr., Captain & Tennille and Donny and Marie Osmond. The bad news bearersCertainly, not everyone was in the mood to celebrate. Richard Pryor released an influential album whose title was “Bicentennial,” followed by an ethnic slur. The title track is a monologue from a 200-year-old slave; it ends with “I ain’t gonna never forget it.” In the same album’s ”Bicentennial Prayer,” Pryor proclaims, “We are celebrating 200 years of white folks kickin’ ass.”Popular music wasn’t in a particularly patriotic mood either. Elton John’s 1975 hit “Philadelphia Freedom” became a de facto anthem of sorts, even though it’s barely about Philadelphia and is more about individual independence. Indeed, the prevailing pop attitude was: Let’s forget about this mess we’ve left behind and go to the disco. So the Billboard singles charts were topped by the likes of Johnnie Taylor’s “Disco Lady,” The Sylvers’ “Boogie Fever,” The Bee Gees’ “You Should Be Dancing” and KC and the Sunshine Band’s “(Shake Shake Shake) Shake Your Booty.”On the album charts, California’s hippie culture was shaking off its hangover with haunted LPs like the Eagles’ “Hotel California” and Jackson Browne’s “The Pretender.” Something else was breaking loose in New York, though, with aggressive debuts from the Ramones and Blondie. The Ramones’ logo included an eagle holding an olive branch and a baseball bat, and their repertoire included the future stadium anthem “Blitzkrieg Bop.” What could be more American?Speaking of America’s pastime, I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring up the year’s funniest movie, “The Bad News Bears.” It’s baseball the way it was meant to be played — by a bunch of foul-mouthed juvenile delinquents coached by a surly, alcoholic has-been embodied by Walter Matthau. Double 50-year-old spoiler alert: Like Rocky, the Bears don’t win in the end. But they do have fun.The same can’t be said for the characters in most of 1976’s dramatic films. Hollywood did its best to get a patriotic movie — the World War II epic “Midway” — in theaters in June, but it quickly fizzled. The top box office draw on July 4th was “The Omen,” about an angelic-looking boy who turns out to be the Antichrist.More prestigious films continued to wrestle with the paranoia of the Nixon era. “All the President’s Men” dramatized The Washington Post’s investigation of the Watergate scandal. In “Taxi Driver,” a Vietnam War veteran plots to assassinate a presidential contender. In “Network,” a TV anchorman urges his viewers to open their windows and scream, “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore!”All three are undisputed classics. All three were nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. All three lost to “Rocky.”

England’s World Cup preparations have been hit by the theft of training equipment ahead of the squad’s arrival at their base in Kansas City, Missouri.The incident occurred while equipment was being transferred from England’s pre-tournament base in Florida to Swope Soccer Village, where it was supposed to be in place before the squad begin training after they arrive in Kansas City on Saturday.Balls and boots are reportedly among the items stolen, according to British media reports. Local police in Kansas City are now looking into the incident.“We are investigating a possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with items missing this evening,” police said.“The investigation is ongoing. Two subjects of interest were taken into custody pending further investigation.”The theft could affect England’s preparations for their World Cup opener against Croatia on Wednesday in Dallas.The squad is due to arrive at their World Cup base on Saturday, after spending time in Florida to acclimatise to the hot and humid conditions. The Three Lions played warm-up matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Tampa Bay and Orlando.Algeria, Argentina and the Netherlands have also chosen to base themselves in or around Kansas City.

When the Division 4 boys lacrosse chase for the state championship started, there were 34 teams in the running. Three weeks of exciting playoff action has whittled the field down to the final two teams. Coincidentally, they are also the top two teams from the original bracket: No. 1 seed Cohasset High and No. 2 seed Nantucket.Cohasset and Nantucket will play for the Division 4 crown at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 13, on the campus of Worcester State College. Cohasset comes into the game with a record of 16-5. Nantucket is working on a superb record of 19-3.This is Cohasset’s 12th appearance in the boys lacrosse state title game with six championships to their credit, the last one coming in 2023. The Skippers are tied for the second most championship appearances in MIAA history with Medfield, Duxbury and Lincoln-Sudbury. The Longmeadow program is far ahead of the pack on this list with 40 appearances.Nantucket has made it to the state championship game once before, defeating Sandwich in 2024 by the score of 7-6.Follow here for live updates throughout the championship game.This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com: Cohasset High boys lacrosse takes on Nantucket for the state title

The Tennessee Titans may not be viewed as one of the NFL's elite teams, but the organization is quietly building a roster filled with young talent and valuable contributors.That reality was highlighted recently when NFL.com's Tom Blair constructed the best possible roster under the 2026 salary cap. His exercise involves creating the best 53-man roster of a selection of any player in the NFL under the $301.2 million salary cap threshold.While many of the league's biggest stars understandably made the team, three Titans players also earned recognition: wide receiver Chimere Dike, linebacker Cedric Gray, and punter Tommy Townsend. That's a step in the positive direction after the Titans landed zero players on their 2025 list.While the selections don't say anything about what their future holds, they show that the Titans are beginning to accumulate players who provide significant value relative to their contracts.Young Titans Earning National RecognitionNew Titans punter Tommy Townsend was the veteran of the group to make the list, and it sheds light on something they did right this offseason. The former first-team All-Pro signed to a two-year, $6 million deal as their new specialist at the punter position.Dike and Gray represent the two young players who are important to Tennessee's future. Dike made first-team All-Pro in his rookie season as a return specialist. His success returning kicks and punts on a fourth-round pick's salary (four-year, $5.49 million) could be one of the biggest bargains in the NFL. He made the ultimate NFL roster as WR6.Speaking of fourth-round picks, Gray had a breakout second season with the Titans after his selection in the same round the year before in 2024. He finished fourth in the NFL in total tackles with 164 last season and is entering the third season of his four-year, $4.84 million contract.For a team looking to take the next step in 2026, contributions from players like Dike, Gray, and Townsend could prove just as important as those from the Titans' bigger stars. NFL.com's selections also highlight the progress Tennessee has made in building roster depth, and suggest the Titans are starting to put more of those pieces in place.This article originally appeared on Titans Wire: Tennessee Titans: Several players land on 'ultimate NFL roster'

The high school baseball regular season has come to an end in the Battle Creek area.Who had the best season? Vote here for the 2026 Battle Creek Enquirer 'Readers Choice' High School Baseball Player of the Year. Vote in our online poll below. Poll closes 5 p.m., Wednesday, June 17.MORE: Enquirer All-City Baseball TeamHere's our list for the Enquirer Baseball Player of the Year poll (in alphabetical order):Tanner Alderson - Harper CreekBlake Brown - Gull LakeBrock Butler - HomerNolan Chard - Union CityBrady Conley - PennfieldMalachi Dishman - Battle Creek CentralCarter Dzwik - St. Philip/Climax-ScottsDayton Ennis - ColdwaterGarrett Hill - PennfieldMason Hood - LakeviewJoseph Fair - BronsonLincoln Fuller - MarshallMax Markham - Gull LakeMaddox McCarty - Harper CreekSam McCullough - LakeviewNathan Miller - Harper CreekCalvin Paesens - PennfieldOwen Tappenden - ColdwaterDalton Williams - ColonMemphis Wirtz - LakeviewContact Bill Broderick at bbroderi@battlecreekenquirer.com. Follow him on X/Twitter @billbroderick.This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Nominees for Enquirer High School Baseball Player of the Year

OMAHA, Neb. – The most anticipated matchup of the opening games of the College World Series will be in prime-time on Saturday night.National No. 3 seed Georgia baseball and No. 6 seed Texas, the first- and second-place teams this season in the SEC, play for the first time this season.Georgia (51-12) is 8-0 since the regular season ended, going 3-0 in the SEC Tournament to win the title, 3-0 in the Athens Regional and 2-0 against Mississippi State in the super regional last weekend. It has won 19 of the last 20.“I think it's just momentum for me in this game is guys are waking up every day and just trying to win today and be really good at a plan, knowing that Texas has got a phenomenal left-handed starter,” Georgia coach Wes Johnson said. “They've got a good bullpen, but they're different. And so momentum's not going to carry you through. ... You better have a really good plan and be ready to swing. “That left-handed starter is sophomore Dylan Volantis who is 10-1 with a 2.13 ERA.Texas (45-13) beat Oregon in two games in the super regional in Austin after beating Holy Cross, Tarleton State and UC Santa Barbara in the Austin Regional.What channel is Georgia baseball vs Texas?TV channel: ESPNStream:FUBO (free trial)Georgia will play Texas on ESPN. Announcers for the game are Karl Ravech, Kyle Peterson, Chris Burke and Kris Budden.Georgia baseball vs. Texas game timeDate: Saturday, June 13Time: 8 p.m., ETGeorgia and Texas will play at Charles Schwab Field at 8 p.m. Saturday.When is College World Series? CWS bracket, scheduleThe CWS begins June 12 and could last until June 22.Game 1: 2 p.m., June 12 No. 16 West Virginia vs. Troy (ESPN)Game 2: 7 p.m., June 12 No. 5 North Carolina vs. Ole Miss (ESPN)Game 3: 3 p.m., June 13 No. 7 Alabama vs. Oklahoma (ESPN)Game 4: 8 p.m., June 13 No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 6 Texas (ESPN)Game 5: 2 p.m., June 14 loser of Game 1 vs. loser of Game 2 (ESPN)Game 6: 7 p.m., June 14 winner of Game 1 vs. winner of Game 2 (ESPN)Game 7: 2 p.m., June 15 loser of Game 3 vs. loser of Game 4 (ESPN)Game 8: 7 p.m., June 15 winner of Game 3 vs. winner of Game 4 (ESPN)Game 9: 2 p.m., June 16 (ESPN)Game 10: 8 p.m., June 16 (ESPN)Game 11: 2 p.m., June 17 (ESPN)Game 12: 7 p.m., June 17 (ESPN)Bracket 1: TBD, June 18 (ESPN)*Bracket 2: TBD, June 18 (ESPN)*Championship Series Game 1: TBD, June 20 (ESPN)Championship Series Game 2: 2:30 p.m., June 21 (ABC)Championship Series Game 3: 7 p.m., June 22** if necessaryThis article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Georgia baseball vs Texas channel, start time for College World Series

The World Cup continues on Saturday, with Brazil beginning their campaign and three more group-stage matches taking place across North America.Brazil take on Morocco in the day’s biggest match, while Qatar face Switzerland, Haiti meet Scotland and Australia play Turkiye as more teams get their tournaments under way.Away from the football, there has been plenty to talk about. Donald Trump skipped the United States’ opener, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was at the US game instead of Canada’s, and Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his team’s first match after Canada denied his visa application.In Peru, police made headlines after carrying out a drug raid dressed as World Cup mascots.Here is what to know:What’s the World Cup schedule on June 13?Qatar take on Switzerland at BC Place in Vancouver, with kickoff scheduled for 12pm local time (19:00 GMT).Later, Brazil face Morocco at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Group C clash kicks off at 6pm local time (22:00 GMT).The day’s action concludes with Haiti meeting Scotland at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Kickoff is set for 8pm local time (01:00 GMT on June 14).Australia and Turkiye then get Group D under way at Lumen Field in Seattle, with kickoff at 9pm local time (04:00 GMT on June 14).What do the predictions say for Brazil vs Morocco?Brazil and Morocco have only faced each other once before at a World Cup, with Brazil winning their 1998 group-stage meeting. Morocco got their revenge in a 2-1 friendly win in 2023.Brazil have won seven of their eight World Cup matches against African opponents, with their only defeat coming against Cameroon in 2022.The five-time champions have not lifted the trophy since 2002. Since then, they have usually exited in the quarterfinals, apart from their run to the 2014 semifinals.Opta’s 25,000 simulations give Brazil a 57.7 percent chance of winning. A draw happened in 23.5 percent of the projections, while Morocco won in 18.8 percent.The winner could put themselves in a strong position to top Group C.What do the predictions say for Qatar vs Switzerland?Qatar and Switzerland have met only once before, with Qatar claiming a 1-0 friendly win in 2018 thanks to a late goal from Akram Afif. Afif is among nine players from that squad still in Qatar’s 2026 World Cup team, while Switzerland have seven survivors from that defeat, including Granit Xhaka and Remo Freuler.Opta’s 25,000 simulations make Switzerland the clear favourites in this Group B clash, giving them a 76.0 percent chance of victory. Qatar won just 9.1 percent of the projections, while 14.9 percent ended in a draw.A point would likely be considered a positive result for the Gulf side.What do the predictions say for Australia vs Turkiye?Australia and Turkiye have met only twice before, with Turkiye winning both friendlies in 2004. Turkiye have also won all four of their previous World Cup matches against Asian opponents.Opta’s 10,000 simulations give Turkiye a 55.3 percent chance of victory, compared with 20.5 percent for Australia and 24.1 percent for a draw.Neither side has a strong record in World Cup openers, however. Turkiye have lost both of their previous first matches, while Australia have lost five of their six opening games.What do the predictions say for Haiti vs Scotland?Haiti and Scotland have never faced each other before, making this one of several first-time matchups at the expanded 48-team World Cup. It will also be Haiti’s first-ever game against a team from the British Isles.Opta’s 25,000 simulations make Scotland clear favourites, giving them a 59.0 percent chance of victory. Haiti won 19.2 percent of the projections, while 21.8 percent ended in a draw.Haiti vs ScotlandWhat else is shaping the World Cup?The football has only just started, but the World Cup is already making headlines away from the pitch, too.Trump did not attend the US World Cup openerThe US president did not attend the US men’s national team’s World Cup opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles.His absence drew attention because Trump has recently attended several high-profile sporting events, including Game 3 of the NBA Finals earlier this week. He is also expected to host a UFC event at the White House on Sunday.A White House official said Trump instead plans to attend the World Cup final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The US president called into a USMNT team meeting with some words of support via Andrew Giuliani, the White House’s World Cup task force CEO.Last night, we received a message of support from POTUS ahead of our World Cup journey. pic.twitter.com/MVPITGldtS— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) June 12, 2026Partey denied entry into CanadaGhana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss his country’s World Cup opener against Panama after Canada denied his visa application while he awaits trial in the United Kingdom on multiple rape charges, which he denies.FIFA confirmed on Friday that the 32-year-old would not be permitted to travel from Ghana’s base camp in Smithfield, Rhode Island, to Toronto for Wednesday’s match.“His visa application has been refused by the Canadian government,” FIFA said in a statement.“FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas. As with previous FIFA events, the host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.”BREAKING: Ghana player Thomas Partey has been denied a visa to enter Canada to play in the World Cup, says FIFA. Partey is facing a trial in Britain on rape charges.🔴 More on https://t.co/5H0QqpggO4pic.twitter.com/Gt8LJAVID5— Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) June 12, 2026Trudeau attends the US’s World CupAs Canada and the US kicked off their World Cup campaigns on the same day, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in California rather than Toronto.The 54-year-old did not attend Canada’s 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field. Instead, he was at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood alongside pop singer Katy Perry, who performed during the pre-match opening ceremony before the US faced Paraguay.Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau looking on at Los Angeles Stadium for USA-Paraguay pic.twitter.com/ifhytFbdc0— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) June 13, 2026Peruvian officers use World Cup mascot costumes in Lima drug bustPeruvian police have gone viral after carrying out a drug raid in Lima dressed as World Cup mascots.Video shared by police showed officers dressed as World Cup mascots breaking through a metal gate with a battering ram before entering the property.Once inside, they arrested a suspected drug dealer and recovered weapons and bags of what authorities believe were narcotics.Beyond football: The local dishes defining the 2026 World Cup host citiesThe World Cup may be decided on the pitch, but another competition is already under way off it: Which host city has the best food?In a report for Al Jazeera, Lou Browne travelled across North America to find out what fans can expect beyond the stadiums.In Mexico City, taco vendors are hoping the tournament brings more customers. “Well, now the World Cup is coming, and we hope we’ll get customers,” a tortilla cook at El Califa de Leon told Al Jazeera. “I imagine there will be a lot of people, foreigners or locals.”Philadelphia is proudly backing its famous Philly cheesesteak. Locals say visitors should learn how to order properly. “You want to tell them what kind of cheese you want,” Anthony Rossi, a cook at Geno’s Steaks, explained. “And you say if you want onions, which is ‘wit’ or ‘wit-out’ … Keep it simple.”Across the border, Toronto is making the case for poutine, the Canadian dish of fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. “Poutine is the … not the best … dish, but poutine is from Canada,” said Lisa Deni, a French tourist.In Kansas City, barbecue is a point of pride. “This is really good,” diner Camilla Thomas said. “We’ve been enjoying coming here. and bringing people from out of town here and giving them a little taste of Kansas City.”And in Miami, locals insist the Cuban sandwich is a must-try. “The Cuban sandwich, croquetas, and cafecito are really the way to go,” said Daniel Figueredo, cofounder of Sanguich. “The Cuban sandwich really is the thing you have to have when you come to Miami.”For fans travelling across North America this summer, the hardest choice may not be picking the World Cup winner, but deciding which host city serves the best food.

How to watch Haiti vs Scotland, team news, predicted line-ups and moreScotland are set to play their first World Cup match since 1998 as they take on Haiti in Boston.Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the clash…Kick-off time in the UK2am Sunday 14th JuneHow to watch in the UKLive on BBC OneStreaming on BBC iPlayerInjuries and suspensionsHaiti: N/AScotland: Billy Gilmour (out), Scott Mckenna (out)Predicted line-upsHaiti (4-4-2): Placide; Arcus, Ade, Delcroix, Experience; Deedson, Jean Jacques, Bellegarde, Providence; Isidor, NazonScotland (4-4-2): Gunn; Hickey, Hanley, McKenna, Robertson; Gannon-Doak, McTominay, Ferguson, McGinn; Adams, ShanklandRecent formHaiti won one of their two warm up games, 4-0 against New Zealand but they were beaten 2-1 by Peru.Scotland won both their friendlies after the end of the season, scoring four goals in each. They won 4-1 against Curacao and 4-0 against BoliviaWhat’s been said?Steve Clarke was full of excitement as he looked ahead to Scotland’s first match of the World Cup.“We have another chance and that’s credit to the players that they keep qualifying for these major tournaments,” he said.”“We want to do something special.”He added: “Anyone you speak to they’ll tell you the team has brought them out here. And I’m the same.”

Special collections librarian Antony Ramm said Leeds United players had brought 'huge pride' to the city [Leeds Central Library]World Cup winners from Leeds United are being remembered by the city's librarians 60 years after England's victory.A photograph of the players being welcomed back to the city in 1966 will be put on display at Leeds Central Library, alongside a book featuring their signatures.Special collections librarian Antony Ramm said the victory of the players, which included Jack Charlton and Norman Hunter, had brought "huge pride" and the city was "lucky that this amazing moment was immortalised"."Hopefully, reliving this historic moment at the library will help get everyone that bit more excited about this summer's tournament too and we can see football come home again," he said.The signatures, photograph and book date back to 3 August 1966 when the then Lord Mayor of Leeds, Alderman Joshua S Walsh, hosted a civic reception for the footballers at Leeds Civic Hall.Jack Charlton and Norman Hunter are among the players who signed the book [Leeds Central Library] More World Cup stories Find your local World Cup hero with our postcode lookup Global demand for teachers' World Cup school packCan pubs stay open late for World Cup matches?Starting centre-back Charlton and Hunter, who was a member of the 22-man squad but did not play in the tournament, received a heroes' welcome following England's 4-2 win in extra time against West Germany.They attended alongside Leeds United manager Don Revie and Les Cocker, Whites coach and England boss Alf Ramsey's assistant.Newspapers at the time reported Walsh had told the esteemed guests he had never watched a football match until the final, which brought him "tremendous excitement".Councillor Asghar Khan, executive member for communities at Leeds City Council, said the image had captured a "truly historic moment" at a "time of celebration for the entire nation"."It's wonderful that library visitors will get the chance to relive it and hopefully it will be just the start of a memorable summer for football," he added.The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on 11 June, with England's campaign beginning on 17 June with a match against Croatia in Arlington, USA.The 1966 image can be viewed online as part of the Leodis archive, as well as in person at the library.Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North More on this story The Leeds players at the World Cup Related internet links Leeds Libraries

[BBC]Cricket scorecardscan appear confusing at first glance, with multiple rows and columns indicating how well - or badly - both a team and individual player is faring in a match.But once you know what you're looking at on a scorecard, it can become a lot less complex to work out what's going on.Here is an explanation of some of the numbers and letters.[BBC Sport]Batting scorecardsGoing from left to right across the table:Innings - this refers to the time given to a team's turn to bat, in this case New ZealandBatter - these are listed in the order of appearance in the game that the batters make, called the 'batting order'c/lbw/st/not out - this details how the batter was dismissed, if at all. A 'c' indicates they were caught out, followed by the name of the fielder who caught them. An 'lbw' shows that they fell foul of a 'leg before wicket' where the ball was blocked from hitting the stumps by the batter's leg, which results in dismissal. If a 'st' is displayed, it means the batter was stumped by the wicketkeeper, whose name will be displayed next to the st. If the batter survived the innings then they are 'not out'. Otherwise, a blank in this column indicates they were bowled out, which is detailed in the next column alongb - this is used when the batter has been dismissed as a result of the bowler, followed by the name of the bowler that dismissed them. The exception is when the batter is run out, where the fielder who ran them out will be displayedRuns - this displays the number of runs the batter has recordedBalls - how many times a batter has faced a delivery from a bowlerDots - how many times zero runs were scored from a legal delivery4s - how many times the batter has hit a ball that has reached the pitch boundary to score four runs6s - how many times the batter has hit a ball that has gone over the pitch boundary without hitting the ground first to score six runsMins - number of minutes the batter has spent battingStrike-rate - worked out by the number of runs a batter has scored divided by the number of balls delivered, then multiplied by 100. For example, 18 runs from 36 balls = 50.0 strike rateExtras - denotes how many additional runs a team has scored as a result of byes, leg byes, wides and no ballsOvers - an 'over' is a set number of six ball deliveries to the batter. So this denotes how many total overs a team has faced in their batting innings. In this example, 40.3 means 40 full overs and three extra deliveriesAll out - the number of runs scored either by the time every batter is dismissed or the final ball has been deliveredBowling figures[BBC Sport]Going from left to right across the table:Bowler - the name of the player bowlingOvers - how many overs a bowler has delivered. In this example, Gus Atkinson on 11.3 means he bowled 11 full overs and three more deliveriesMaidens - when a bowler delivers a full over without conceding any runsRuns - the number of runs the bowler has conceded from his deliveriesWickets - the number of wickets that bowler has takenDots - how many times zero runs were scored off a bowler's deliveriesNB - this stands for 'no ball' and indicates the delivery was not legal. This adds a run on to the batter's score and does not count as a ball in an overWides - this is when an umpire declares that a delivery was too wide for the batter to hit in a natural manner. This again grants the batter a bonus run and the ball is replayed4s - how many times the bowler has conceded a four-run boundary hit, as explained above6s - how many times the bowler has conceded a six-run boundary hit, as explained aboveEcon - stands for 'economy rate' and is calculated by runs conceded divided by overs bowled. A lower economy rate indicates a better performance by the bowler, so Atkinson had the most economical performance aboveFall of wicket - this indicates the side's score when that specific batter was dismissed. The first number displays runs scored and the second is for wickets taken, eg when Kane Williamson was dismissed, the score was 29 runs for New Zealand with two batters out, after 10.4 overs This article is the latest from BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team.More questions answered...All you need to know about the Women's T20 World CupWhat are the ICC pitch ratings and how does the system work?Why are batters retiring out early in T20 cricket?

Carolina Hurricanes (53-22-7, in the Metropolitan Division) vs. Vegas Golden Knights (39-26-17, in the Pacific Division)Paradise, Nevada; Sunday, 8 p.m. EDTLINE: Hurricanes -115, Golden Knights -105; over/under is 6STANLEY CUP FINAL: Hurricanes lead series 3-2BOTTOM LINE: The Carolina Hurricanes visit the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final with a 3-2 lead in the series. The teams meet Thursday for the eighth time this season. The Hurricanes won 4-2 in the last meeting. Andrei Svechnikov led the Hurricanes with two goals.Vegas has gone 27-15-9 in home games and 39-26-17 overall. The Golden Knights have gone 50-8-12 in games they score at least three goals.Carolina has gone 31-12-6 on the road and 53-22-7 overall. The Hurricanes have conceded 236 goals while scoring 291 for a +55 scoring differential.TOP PERFORMERS: Pavel Dorofeyev has 37 goals and 27 assists for the Golden Knights. Brett Howden has seven goals and two assists over the past 10 games.Seth Jarvis has 32 goals and 34 assists for the Hurricanes. Jordan Staal has scored seven goals and added one assist over the past 10 games.LAST 10 GAMES: Golden Knights: 7-2-1, averaging 3.7 goals, 6.5 assists, 3.4 penalties and seven penalty minutes while giving up 2.8 goals per game.Hurricanes: 7-2-1, averaging 3.9 goals, 6.5 assists, 3.4 penalties and 8.4 penalty minutes while giving up 2.8 goals per game.INJURIES: Golden Knights: William Karlsson: day to day (arm).Hurricanes: None listed.___The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Brian O'Neill has blocked some of the NFL's best pass-rushers, from Aaron Donald to Micah Parsons. He's played in four NFL playoff games.And yet, his biggest challenge on June 12? Fending off middle school-age football players as they worked on blocking drills. O'Neill, the Pro Bowl Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle, led rotating groups of kids through blocking drills as he hosted his annual football camp June 12 at the Titus Sports Performance Academy in Wilmington. Los Angeles Rams linebacker Troy Reeder accompanied him as the two led around 100 in attendance through various drills, alongside high school coaches.O'Neil stressed that the camp had been a great opportunity for him to get involved in giving back to Delaware's youth. "The people have always been awesome to us here in this community," he said. "It's a great way to say connected."Reeder and O'Neill both expressed pride in seeing the camp grow, in their fifth year of hosting it."It's so cool getting to see kids come back, and you're starting to see them improve," Reeder said. "We have so much fun doing this."Delaware connections continue beyond high school ballFor Reeder and O'Neill, the camp provides more than an opportunity to help out Delaware's youth; it allows them to stay connected. The two NFL players played together at Salesianum, winning a state championship in 2013."From the time we were sophomores in high school, Troy was the first person to show me how to take football seriously, and work out hard," O'Neill said. The players, alongside Pittsburgh Steelers safety Darnell Savage, who attended Caravel University, remain close, despite the long distances between them. Savage was unable to attend, as Pittsburgh is in the middle of its mandatory minicamp, but his parents were there, donned in Steelers shirts.Reeder hopes those attending build similar connections, having fun alongside fellow aspiring players and growing in the process."A lot of these kids have the same life we were living, the same dreams," Reeder said. "It's about helping them reach their potential."O'Neill, Reeder face big years aheadAmidst the feel-good atmosphere of the camp, both O'Neill and Reeder approach significant challenges in the year to come. O'Neill is playing on the last year of his contract, after multiple Pro Bowl seasons. He'll also be working with a new offensive line coach; former Vikings coach Chris Kuper left this offseason to become the Eagles' offensive line coach, replaced by assistant coach Keith Carter."Any time you get a new coach and new messaging, you're going to be challenged a bit," O'Neill said. "Being a little bit uncomfortable is helpful for everybody, though."The star offensive tackle also enters the last year of his contract after eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. It's a situation he explained he's not stressed about, despite the added pressure it could realistically bring."I love playing football, and I love the Minnesota Vikings," O'Neill said. "My dad always told me play your butt off, and the rest will take care of itself."Reeder, on the other hand, sits as a free agent after spending three years with the Rams. With the NFL's mandatory minicamps underway, time is running out for him to join a team before the season begins. However, the linebacker seems unbothered, savoring the time with his family."I know football doesn't last forever, and I'm having fun getting to be dad and husband," said Reeder, who has two children ages 1 and 3.Despite all the challenges that await them this season, the players' main stressor at the moment was ensuring the youth players received a great experience."It's weird, they'll remember the smallest little thing from a past camp, and I'll be like 'I better make sure I'm telling them the right thing, because it'll stick with them'," O'Neill said with a laugh. "Hopefully it's a cool experience for them, and I need to make sure I'm on my A-game."Adam Denn is an intern reporter for Delaware Online/The News Journal. You can reach him at apdenn@delawareonline.com.This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware NFL stars Brian O'Neill, Troy Reeder host annual youth camp

IND vs AFG 1st ODI delayed: What time will the toss and match start? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Persistent rain delays the toss for India vs Afghanistan first ODI at Dharamshala.A 60-70% chance of showers has a delayed start. Orange alert issued for Himachal Pradesh; yellow alert in place until June 16.India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI: Toss delayed as rain lashes DharamshalaIndia's first ODI against Afghanistan at Dharamshala has run into trouble before a ball has been bowled, with persistent rain delaying the toss and casting serious doubt over whether a full match can be played. A steady drizzle continues to fall over the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, with the covers firmly in place over the pitch and square.Ground staff have also extended protection to the run-up areas as conditions remain unchanged. The rain is not torrential, but its persistence is the problem. There is no sign of it clearing in the near future, and an immediate start looks out of the question.MORE: IND vs AFG 1st ODI predicted playing XI: India's No. 3 dilemma between Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL RahulDharamshala weather forecast: What are the chances of the rain stopping?The day's forecast gives a 60 to 70 per cent chance of showers throughout, meaning even if play begins, further interruptions cannot be ruled out.The meteorological department had already issued an orange alert for June 12, warning of thunderstorms, hail and gusty winds across parts of Himachal Pradesh.A yellow alert remains active from June 13 through to June 16, flagging the possibility of rain and lightning at scattered locations.Let's take a look at the hourly temperatures and the probability of rainfall in Dharamshal on Saturday.1:00 PM: 21°C (49% chance of rain)2:00 PM: 20°C (70% chance of rain)3:00 PM: 19°C (67% chance of rain)4:00 PM: 21°C (40% chance of rain)5:00 PM: 22°C (34% chance of rain)6:00 PM: 23°C (22% chance of rain)7:00 PM: 22°C (0% chance of rain)8:00 PM: 21°C (0% chance of rain)9:00 PM: 21°C (0% chance of rain)10:00 PM: 20°C (0% chance of rain)11:00 PM: 20°C (0% chance of rain)MORE: Explained: Why Virat Kohli is not playing India vs Afghanistan ODI series 2026What time will the toss take place for the 1st ODI between IND & AFG?There is currently no fixed time for the toss. The standard process applies as the rain must stop, followed by a ground inspection by the umpires, before any decision on the toss.What time will the 1st ODI between IND & AFG start after rain delay?The umpires are yet to decide on a start time. To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

The Pittsburgh Steelers' countdown to kickoff continues to roll on ahead of the 2026 NFL regular season, with fans needing to wait only 92 more days until the Steel City brand of football hosts the Atlanta Falcons on September 13.In the spirit of the countdown, we at Steelers Wire will take a look at the history of the No. 92 jersey and analyze which players wore it best.Steelers current No. 92 wearer: DL Kevin Jobity Jr.Signing with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL Draft, Jobity is the current No. 92 wearer on the roster. Playing four seasons at Syracuse University, Jobity recorded 10 sacks, 84 combined tackles, and 20.5 tackles for loss during his collegiate career.Last five Steelers to wear No. 92Kevin Jobity Jr. 2026-presentIsaiahh Loudermilk, 2021-2025Olasunkanmi Adeniyi, 2018-2020Daniel McCullers, 2014Hebron Fangupo, 2013Best No. 92 in Steelers history: LB James HarrisonWhile multiple-time Pro Bowl linebacker Jason Gildon definitely has a case, the greatest No. 92 wearer in Steelers history goes to James Harrison.One of the most ferocious defenders the league has ever seen, Harrison signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2002 but would be released three times by Pittsburgh and once by the Baltimore Ravens before he'd reach the level we all know and love.From 2004 to 2016, Harrison would appear in 176 games for Pittsburgh, including 107 starts, recording 80.5 sacks, 775 combined tackles, and 122 tackles for loss during his time with the Steelers.A two-time Super Bowl champion, the 2008 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a two-time First-Team All-Pro and two-time Second-Team All-Pro selection, and a five-time Pro Bowler, Harrison would be inducted into the Steelers Hall of Honor — leaving little doubt that he's the greatest to ever wear No. 92 in franchise history.For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers 2026 countdown to kickoff: Best and current wearer of No. 92

Longest NBA championship droughts: How Knicks can snap lengthy streak and who is next up on list originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The New York Knicks are one win away from immortality in the NBA Finals, which would break one of the longest title droughts in the NBA.The Knicks haven't won it all since 1973, a championship that marked a second in four years for the franchise. Since then, New York has only made it to the NBA Finals three times, and while they lost the first two, they can make up for it by winning this series vs. the San Antonio Spurs.A Knicks championship would be one of the more significant moments in NBA history, largely due to how long it has been since New York has held the Larry O'Brien Trophy. It would also put pressure on the other teams that have a similar NBA title drought on their ledger.Here's a look at the longest active NBA championship droughts in the NBA.MORE: When was the last time the Knicks won an NBA championship?Longest NBA Championship droughtsThe NBA features its fair share of title droughts, as many teams haven't won the NBA Finals in the last 50 years. That includes expansion teams that have never won, and older franchises that last won in the mid-1900s.TeamLength of droughtLast titleSacramento Kings75 years1951 (as Rochester Royals)Atlanta Hawks68 years1958 (as St. Louis Hawks)Phoenix Suns58 yearsNeverLos Angeles Clippers56 yearsNeverNew York Knicks53 years1973Utah Jazz52 yearsNeverBrooklyn Nets50 yearsNeverIndiana Pacers50 yearsNeverPortland Trail Blazers49 years1977Washington Wizards48 years1978 (as Washington Bullets)Of the 10 longest droughts currently going, five are by teams that have never won the NBA Finals before and two were by teams that won the NBA Finals before moving cities. Only the Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers won their last title in both their current city and with their current team.Here's a breakdown of the five longest active title droughts in the NBA.1. Sacramento Kings, 75 yearsLast NBA title: 1951Last NBA Finals appearance: 1951Total NBA Finals appearances: 1The Sacramento Kings have the longest title drought currently in the NBA, as the organization hasn't won a title since 1951. That victory, though, came when the Kings were the Rochester Royals, beating the Knicks in a full seven-game season.The Royals moved to Cincinnati in 1957, then became the Kings when they played in Kansas City from 1972-85. Finally, the Kings settled in Sacramento in 1985, but along the way through that journey, the team never found itself back in the NBA Finals.2. Atlanta Hawks, 68 yearsLast NBA title: 1958Last NBA Finals appearance: 1961Total NBA Finals appearances: 4The Hawks are another team whose last NBA title came in a different city. The Hawks have played in Buffalo, the Tri-Cities and Milwaukee, but won their first and only titles as the St. Louis Hawks against the Boston Celtics in 1958.All four of the Hawks' NBA Finals appearances came while they played in St. Louis, and all four came against the Celtics, with the last being in 1961. The team moved to Atlanta in 1968 and has not made it back to the NBA Finals since.3. Phoenix Suns, 58 yearsLast NBA title: NeverLast NBA Finals appearance: 2021Total NBA Finals appearances: 3Of all the NBA teams that have never won a title, the Suns have the longest title drought. Phoenix entered the league as an expansion team in 1968 and hasn't won a title since, making the organization one of the toughest-luck teams in the NBA.The Suns have made the NBA Finals three times: 1976, 1993 and 2021. Phoenix lost to the Celtics in that first appearance in six games, and were victims of the Chicago Bulls three-peat in 1993 with another 4-2 series loss. The Suns' best chance to win it all came in 2021, when they were up 2-0 on the Milwaukee Bucks but lost four straight games to squander the opportunity.Phoenix also has the most NBA Finals appearances of any team without a championship.4. Los Angeles Clippers, 56 yearsLast NBA title: NeverLast NBA Finals appearance: NeverTotal NBA Finals appearances: 0The NBA team with the worst history is probably the Los Angeles Clippers, whose 56-year title drought is also a 56-year NBA Finals appearance drought. Initially, the Buffalo Braves, the team became the San Diego Clippers in 1978 before moving to Los Angeles in 1984, but had little success everywhere.In fact, the Clippers' only Conference Finals appearance came in 2021, ending a 51-year drought. Still, Los Angeles is one of five teams that have never appeared in the NBA Finals, but the other four have droughts of 35 years or fewer.5. New York KnicksLast NBA title: 1973Last NBA Finals appearance: 2026Total NBA Finals appearances: 9The Knicks have the most success of any team with a lengthy title drought. New York has two titles in its history, coming in 1970 and 1973, but has had a decent amount of success by making the NBA Finals nine times since the team's inception in 1946.In 2026, the Knicks finally ended a 27-year NBA-Finals-appearance drought, as the team last made the Finals in 1999. New York also came close to winning it all in 1994, when it lost to the Houston Rockets in seven games, and the organization has three straight NBA Finals appearances in 1951, 1952 and 1953.MORE: How many teams have never won an NBA title?

Crystal Palace Closing in on New Manager AppointmentCrystal Palace Move Closer to Pierre Sage AppointmentSage Emerges as Palace’s Preferred ChoiceCrystal Palace appear close to making one of the most intriguing managerial appointments of the summer, with BBC Sport reporting that Lens manager Pierre Sage is nearing a move to Selhurst Park.The 47-year-old has only been in charge of Lens for 12 months, yet his impact in France has been significant. A second-place Ligue 1 finish, combined with the club’s first Coupe de France triumph in their 120-year history, has quickly pushed Sage into wider European focus.For Palace, this feels like a calculated gamble rather than a desperate search. Oliver Glasner’s departure left a vacancy at a club entering a rare and delicate moment. Palace have Europa League football ahead after their Uefa Conference League triumph, and the next appointment needed to feel ambitious, modern and capable of building on momentum.Selhurst Park Needs Fresh EnergyBBC Sport states Palace had previously looked at former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who has since joined Liverpool on a two-year deal. Frank Lampard, Kieran McKenna and Sean Dyche were also discussed, yet Sage appears to offer something different.Photo IMAGOHis style of football is expected to appeal to supporters, and his command of English is reportedly strong enough to ensure communication should not become a problem.That matters. Palace need more than a manager with ideas. They need someone capable of translating those ideas quickly, in a dressing room that could still change shape dramatically before the season begins.Summer Decisions Could Define Sage EraThe attraction of Palace right now is obvious. So is the danger.Jean-Philippe Mateta is entering the final year of his contract, while Adam Wharton continues to attract interest from other Premier League clubs. Daichi Kamada has been offered fresh terms, with his previous deal having expired at the end of last season.Those are not minor details. They are the bones of the squad Sage may inherit. Palace have talent, European football, an improving profile and a fanbase ready to believe. Yet losing key players would immediately alter the scale of the job.Palace Appointment Carries Real IntrigueSage’s rise has been swift, but not accidental. Winning silverware with Lens, while also taking them to second in Ligue 1, suggests a coach capable of creating clarity, identity and belief in a short period.Palace supporters will not expect miracles. They will expect progress, purpose and football that feels alive. If Sage delivers that, this appointment could become one of the smartest moves of the summer.Credit must go to BBC Sport for the original reporting on this developing story.Our View – EPL Index AnalysisFrom a Crystal Palace supporter’s perspective, this feels exciting, but also slightly unnerving. That is probably the right balance.Pierre Sage is not the safe, obvious Premier League appointment. He is not a recycled name, not a manager arriving with a familiar list of past jobs and predictable limitations. That alone makes the move feel refreshing.Palace have spent too long being viewed as a club that survives, resets, then survives again. European football changes that. The Conference League triumph should not be treated as a one-off celebration, it should be used as a platform.Sage sounds like the sort of coach who could help Palace play with confidence rather than caution. If his football is as attractive as suggested, Selhurst Park will respond quickly. Palace fans have always warmed to teams with courage, pace and edge.The concern is the squad. If Mateta goes, if Wharton is sold, if Kamada moves on, then Sage could arrive to find the project already weakened. Palace cannot appoint an ambitious coach, then hand him a reduced group.This is the moment to act like a club with European status. Back the manager, keep the core, add quality, and give supporters a team worthy of the occasion.

Kaiserslautern snap up Dortmund academy prospect TazemetaThierry Tazemeta, formerly of Borussia Dortmund's youth academy, has officially joined 1.FC Kaiserslautern ahead of next season.Tazemeta made a total of 27 appearances for Dortmund's U-19 team last campaign, registering an impressive (15 goals and 9 assists."We at 1.FC Kaiserslautern welcome a top international talent," said club sporting director Marcel Klos, of the U-21 Austrian star.“He is a technically gifted player who stands out for his physicality and speed and his ability to make runs in behind makes him versatile in attack.”The 18-year-old himself explained that he simply couldn't pass up an opportunity to join one of the 2. Bundesliga's biggest teams"You don't say no to a club like 1. FC Kaiserslautern, which has so much tradition. When the offer came, I was immediately wide-eyed and very happy."I had very good talks with the management and immediately felt a lot of confidence in me," the versatile attacker said.

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 12: Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White listens during a press conference at the Lincoln Memorial ahead of the upcoming UFC Freedom 250 fight on the South Lawn of the White House on June 12, 2026 in Washington, DC. UFC Freedom 250 will take place this Sunday, June 14th. (Photo by Al Drago/Getty Images)Getty ImagesUFC Freedom 250 could be the biggest event in the promotion's history. With each passing day as we get closer to Sunday, June 14, there are more signals to show how big the event will be. Most recently, UFC President Dana White announced new record-high bonuses for the Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night. Let's talk MMA.Key Facts At A GlanceEvent:UFC Freedom 250, White House South Lawn, Washington, D.C.Date: Sunday, June 14, 2026 (U.S. broadcast on Paramount)Fight of the Night: $400,000 per fighterPerformance of the Night: $425,000 each (two awarded)Finish bonus: $25,000 for any knockout or submissionPrevious record: $300,000 bonuses at UFC 300 (April 2024)How Much Are The UFC Freedom 250 Bonuses?Not counting finishes, the UFC is set to award over $1.6 million in bonuses. That gives some evidence about how much the main-eventers are likely pulling for their efforts. For perspective on the money in play, Jon Jones said the UFC wouldn't go higher than $15 million to bring him onto the card, an offer he rejected as too low after previously eyeing closer to $30 million for a Tom Aspinall bout.Why Are The UFC Freedom 250 Bonuses A Record?The UFC wants to put a serious stamp on this event and it has also received sponsorship from outside entities to contribute to the bonuses for the top performers.That extra money makes Freedom 250 the largest bonus night in UFC history, clearing the previous record of $300,000 set at UFC 300 by $100,000 on Fight of the Night and $125,000 on Performance of the Night. For years the standard fight-night bonuses sat at $50,000 before doubling to $100,000 with this year’s Paramount broadcast deal.Who Is Funding The Record Bonuses?From a business and financial standpoint, this event has drawn tons of contributions.Dana White said World Liberty Financial is adding $250,000 to the pool as a presenting partner, with Crypto.com also contributing as a sponsor. Those checks stack on top of the bonus increases that already arrived with the new Paramount broadcast deal.Why Does UFC Freedom 250 Matter?Whether you agree with the concepts and philosophy of the current president, it’s tough to deny the significance of any promotion putting on an event on the White House lawn. On top of that, with Alex Pereira and Ilia Topuria in action, the UFC has two of its biggest stars in action on the card.This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images for OBB Media - FANATICS STUDIOSStefon Diggs will not face NFL discipline after the league closed its review into allegations involving his former private chef.The decision removes a major off-field question around the veteran wide receiver before the 2026 season.Diggs had been under league review because the NFL can investigate conduct matters separately from the legal system, even when a criminal case has already reached its own outcome.Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images for OBB Media – FANATICS STUDIOSStefon Diggs avoids NFL punishment after personal conduct reviewAs Adam Schefter reported, the NFL closed its review of the matter involving Diggs and his former chef after finding insufficient evidence to support a personal conduct policy violation.That means Diggs is not expected to receive a suspension or fine from the league over the allegations.The case involved claims from former private chef Jamila Adams, who accused Diggs of assaulting and strangling her during an alleged dispute at his Massachusetts home.Diggs denied wrongdoing, and the legal case ended in May when a jury found him not guilty of the charges after trial.The NFL still had the power to review the matter under its personal conduct policy because league discipline does not always depend on a criminal conviction. In this case, however, the league did not find enough evidence to support punishment.What NFL decision means for Stefon Diggs nowThe timing matters because Diggs’ football future has already been under scrutiny.Reports have listed him as a free agent after a 2025 season with the New England Patriots, where he remained productive and topped 1,000 receiving yards.With no league discipline attached to this matter, interested teams now have more clarity on his availability for the 2026 season.That does not erase the seriousness of the allegations, but it does settle the NFL’s disciplinary side of the issue for now.For Diggs, the next question becomes strictly football. He is 32, but he has built a long record as one of the league’s most reliable route runners and high-volume receivers.If a team believes he can still separate, stay healthy, and fit its offense, the end of the NFL review could make his market cleaner.The league’s message was direct: it reviewed the case, did not find sufficient evidence for a policy violation, and is not punishing Diggs.Read more:Skip Bayless takes a Dallas Cowboys jab at Paraguay after ‘true contender’ USMNT took 3-0 leadJoe Burrow was stunned by what he found after his $24.6 million bonus hit his accountHow much money would the world’s first trillionaire Elon Musk be left with after buying every NBA and NFL team

Motorsport photoFernando Alonso has not decided his Formula 1 future beyond the end of this season and rumours have emerged about a sensational return to Alpine for a fourth stint with the Enstone-based team.Alonso has already experienced saying goodbye in F1. At the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he bid farewell to McLaren and Formula 1, but it was not a goodbye to motorsport as he lined up a pursuit of the Triple Crown and a campaign in the World Endurance Championship – then later an outing at the Dakar Rally.Eight years on, during the build-up to the Barcelona GP, Alonso admitted that the race at the Circuit de Catalunya will most likely be his last as an F1 driver.“It's going to be a special weekend, probably my last Barcelona race in Formula 1. So, I want to say thanks to everyone,” he said.He later added: “After summer I will take the decision to continue or not.”It is no secret that Alonso may choose to end his F1 career at the conclusion of the season. And this time, at 45 years old, it could be a definitive farewell. However, when it comes to Alonso, caution is always necessary, given his fierce motivation throughout his barren run without success in F1.Two scenarios are currently being discussed regarding his future. The first still involves Aston Martin and, in particular, the car set to debut in just over a month during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend. It is essentially an 'AMR26 B' a package on which the team has placed its last hopes of turning around a season that has fallen well short of expectations.Podium: champagne for Fernando Alonso and Flavio BriatorePodium: champagne for Fernando Alonso and Flavio BriatoreBut in the Barcelona paddock, another hypothesis is gaining momentum. There is a genuine possibility that Alonso could grant himself one final chapter with the team where he won his two world titles.Alpine is now led by Flavio Briatore, who is also Alonso’s manager, and although he has repeatedly emphasised that the team's technical development remains the priority, the idea of welcoming Alonso for what could be his final F1 season is considered realistic.It would be ‘Alonso IV’ in the story between the driver and the Enstone squad. The team first welcomed him under the Renault banner from 2003 to 2006, the most glorious period of his career, and then again from 2008 to 2009 after his split with McLaren. It was the same organisation, now known as Alpine, that brought him back to F1 in 2021.One last stint at the team that gave him the most significant moments of his career would inevitably carry strong symbolic value. But it would not be just about sentiment. Read Also: Fernando Alonso: "Zero positives" from Monaco GP as Aston Martin's list of weaknesses grows Aston Martin still possesses enormous potential on paper, yet there are no guarantees that its partnership with Honda will produce a winning package by 2027. Alpine, thanks to its partnership with Mercedes, currently appears to be a more reassuring destination for someone who still dreams of standing on the podium at least one more time.And what about Alonso’s farewell to Barcelona? The two-time F1 world champion is a skilled communicator in the media and his words on Thursday were not chosen by chance. The Circuit de Catalunya will not be part of the 2027 calendar, as it enters F1’s rotation system alongside Spa-Francorchamps, with a return scheduled for 2028.From that perspective, the farewell is real – even if just for next year. However, the one person who may not be absent from next year’s event is Alonso himself. Read Also: FIA stewards overturn Pierre Gasly's penalties, restore Monaco GP podium To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid has been known to eat a cheeseburger or two. But as Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons talks about bulking up for this season, Reid doesn't want him doing it with cheeseburgers.Simmons told reporters this week that he weighs 285-290 pounds right now, and although he appears to be in great shape, he looks awfully lean by NFL offensive lineman standards. Simmons said he's going to try to get up to 300 pounds by training camp, and Reid wants him doing it the right way."You don't want cheeseburger weight," Reid said. "He's extremely athletic, and he's gifted that way, so he's able to get away with some things because of that."The things Simmons gets away with include blocking 300-pound men without weighing 300 pounds himself, and Reid said he's not sure that Simmons even needs to get up to 300 pounds to do his job effectively."He's kind of a unique character because he's not a real big guy," Reid said. "But he's extremely strong and very athletic, so you always talk about leverage as a coach, and he does a good job with that, and he was able to function that way last year. He probably told you he's going to put on weight, we'll see. I don't think that's an absolute that has to take place. He looked pretty good out here."The 6-foot-5 Simmons weighed 317 pounds at last year's Scouting Combine before the Chiefs drafted him in the first round. He's lost significant weight since then, and he might be the lightest offensive tackle in the entire NFL right now: At 285 pounds he'd be lighter than every single offensive tackle who played in the league last year, according to pro-football-reference.com.Simmons showed promise in his rookie year, but he missed nine games last season. The most important thing for the Chiefs is that he's healthy and ready to protect Patrick Mahomes' blind side, and they don't think he needs to add any cheeseburger weight to do that.

Tarik Skubal is back.The back-to-back reigning American League Cy Young winner will make his first start for the Detroit Tigers since April 29, after recovering from surgery to remove a bone chip in his left elbow.Skubal made one rehab start with High-A West Michigan and is back in record time after getting a new "NanoNeedle" procedure from surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache that limited the invasiveness of the surgery.Now, less than six weeks out from surgery, Skubal will start against the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday, June 13, at 4:10 p.m. on Detroit SportsNet. Fellow left-hander Joey Cantillo, who has a 4-3 record and 4.57 ERA this year, will start for the Guardians.SHAWN WINDSOR: Tarik Skubal is back and the Detroit Tigers are on the clockIt's a good matchup for Skubal to come back to, both because the Guardians are a team the Tigers are chasing in the AL Central and because Skubal pitches really well against the Guards. In his career, Skubal has a 4-4 record and just a 2.39 ERA along with 112 strikeouts in 15 appearances against the Guardians, including the playoffs.Skubal will be looking to continue that form in his first outing back from injury as the Tigers try to keep the strong start to June going with some reinforcements on the way.Here's what you need to know for Saturday's game: TIGERS ROTATION: Why Detroit Tigers have tough decision ahead with RHP Keider MonteroTigers start time vs GuardiansDate: Saturday, June 13.Time: 4:10 p.m. ET.Location: Progressive Field, Cleveland.Tigers channel vs GuardiansSaturday's Tigers game will be on Detroit Sports Net for a mid-afternoon start. Channel: Detroit SportsNet.First pitch: 4:10 p.m. ET.Streaming: MLB app. Radio: WXYT-FM (97.1).Tigers probable pitchers vs GuardiansTigers: LHP Tarik Skubal, 3-2, 2.7) ERA in 43⅓ innings.Orioles: LHP Joey Cantillo, 4-3, 5.44 ERA in 67 innings.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!This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is Tarik Skubal starting today? Time, TV for Tigers vs Guardians game

The Washington Commanders headed into the 2025 offseason determined to improve their offensive line. This came right after Washington shocked the NFL world and reached the NFC Championship Game — one year removed from going 4-13.The Commanders were rumored to be interested in Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley if he hit free agency. However, just before free agency began, Baltimore struck a deal with Stanley, leaving left tackle options bare. When the legal tampering period opened before free agency, Washington GM Adam Peters surprised everyone, trading multiple draft picks to the Houston Texans for five-time Pro Bowl LT Laremy Tunsil. Tunsil was 30 at the time of the trade, but seeing how long and how well Trent Williams continues to play, led Washington to believe Tunsil was in the middle of his prime years. With two years remaining on his contract, Tunsil had a lot to prove, too. In 2025, the Commanders struggled, going 5-12, as several top players, including quarterback Jayden Daniels, missed significant time with injuries. Almost everything went wrong for Washington in 2025 — almost everything. Not Tunsil. Tunsil was his usual elite self, proving that Peters made the right move in sending multiple picks — and no first-rounders — to the Texans. Peters was adamant after the season that extending Tunsil was among the team's top priorities. In March, the Commanders made good on their word, extending Tunsil on a two-year deal worth $60.2 million. Once again, Tunsil became the NFL's highest-paid offensive lineman. In fact, Tunsil became the first OL in NFL history to average $20 million per season, $25 million and $30 million. One thing no one questioned about Tunsil was his pass protection. No one was better. Last season, Tunsil earned praise from coaches and teammates for his dominance in the running game. Tunsil recently sat down with Brandon Thorn of the "Trench Warfare" newsletter and the "Pass Pro Lab" podcast. One thing stood out from the interview that defines Tunsil's greatness. After years of getting beaten inside, a frustrated Tunsil reached out to former NFL offensive lineman Mike Wahle for some help. "My overall approach to pass pro is so simple," Tunsil said. "Let me give a shoutout to the coach that I've been working with since 2020. His name is Mike Wahle. He's a former player, I think he played with the Carolina Panthers and the Green Bay Packers."Tunsil then explained how Wahle helped him. One of the most interesting parts of my conversation with Laremy Tunsil was hearing him discuss the adjustment that changed his career.After years of getting beat inside, Tunsil began working with former NFL OL Mike Wahle, who introduced him to a line set influenced by Hall of… pic.twitter.com/GKCBy7omzL— Brandon Thorn (@BrandonThornNFL) June 11, 2026Tunsil said he learned a pass pro set from Wahle that Hall of Fame left tackle Walter Jones used throughout his career. Wahle was a teammate of Jones in Seattle in 2008. Tunsil then breaks down the strategy and why it's so effective for him. It's impressive to hear that Tunsil, who in 2020 was already a five-year pro, was reaching out to independent coaches and former players for advice on how to take his game to another level. That's impressive. Tunsil's metrics were elite in pass protection and run blocking in 2025. While Washington may have felt burned from the Marshon Lattimore trade, the Tunsil deal is one Peters would make over and over. The primary reason the Commanders acquired Tunsil was to protect Daniels. Daniels suffered some injuries last season, but none were on Tunsil or the offensive line. Washington hopes Tunsil and Daniels are on the field for all 17 games in 2026. If you want to watch Thorn's interview with Tunsil, you can do so here. It's a fascinating watch, and no one analyzes offensive line play better than Thorn. This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Laremy Tunsil dedicated to being great

Three football teams in the Southeastern Conference are receiving too much hype entering the 2026 season. The offseason gives us plenty of opportunities to place teams in hierarchies, predict what could happen across the conference and provide opinions on which team could be the potential frontrunner for the league title. However, the SEC football programs on this list have garnered hype based on their potential, with little regard to other factors like depth and ability to live up to their high expectations. It is entertaining for media outlets and college football fans to predict who will dominate each conference, especially with the SEC facing so many unanswered questions heading into this year's campaign. Some programs are primed to disappoint this season as they continue to build hype fueled more by perception than performance, however. Here are the three most overrated SEC football teams entering the new college football campaign:1. LSU TigersAt the top of our list for the most overrated teams in the SEC are the LSU Tigers. A new sheriff is in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as Lane Kiffin jumped ship from Ole Miss, shortly after closing the regular season with a win over Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl. Wherever you see Kiffin, hype goes along with him. Giving credit where it is due, he is an offensive mastermind and an excellent head coach, but there are various question marks surrounding the LSU program in 2026. It starts at quarterback, with the status of Arizona State transfer Sam Leavitt up in the air. He underwent various surgeries in 2025 and the offseason, which could hinder his performance on the gridiron come September. Since being named the new head coach of the Tigers, Kiffin has continued making enemies with his offseason talk on social media and his controversial interview with Vanity. He continues to toss fuel on the fire, which is bold coming from a head coach who hasn't broken through the ceiling to capture a national title yet. 2. Alabama Crimson TideThe Crimson Tide were on this same list during last offseason, but defied some early struggles to reach the College Football Playoff for the first time in the Kalen DeBoer era in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Entering DeBoer's third year at the helm, Alabama makes its return to the overrated category, with various doubts for improved offensive production. The unknowns begin at quarterback, with Keelon Russell being the favorite to earn the starting position. It isn't cemented yet, but Russell's dual-threat ability does show promise. However, Alabama had major issues finding success offensively at times in 2025, even with Ty Simpson under center. The Crimson Tide ranked as the 10th scoring offense in the SEC, which was largely due to a struggling rushing attack that ranked 15th in the conference with 104.1 rushing yards per game. For the first time in a while, the Crimson Tide failed to establish a successful running game, which had been their identity during Nick Saban's tenure. Some may believe Alabama is still well and alive entering 2026, but the dynasty that we once knew and loved is dead and gone. 3. Oklahoma SoonersWe end this list with Brent Venables' squad in Norman, Oklahoma. The Sooners had a successful campaign in 2025, capped off by a loss to Alabama in the CFP. John Mateer's health remains the most massive concern entering his final season playing college football, after a hand injury that required surgery last season. Mateer is undoubtedly one of the most elite signal-callers in the country when healthy, but there were moments after his surgery when he didn't seem himself. His off-throwing motion and inconsistency as a pocket-passer were uncharacteristic of the Washington State transfer. Meanwhile, the rushing attack, like the Crimson Tide, struggled to provide any production to back up Mateer. The Sooners ranked 13th in the SEC with 118.5 rushing yards per contest in 2025. To meet the extremely high expectations this year, including making the playoff for the second consecutive season, it will take an Oklahoma offensive makeover. 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 Dylan on X: @dylanmflippo.This article originally appeared on Aggies Wire: Top three SEC football teams that will come crashing down in 2026

LAKEWOOD - Baseball has largely remained the same throughout its existence but a new twist on the national pastime has taken the sports world by storm.Founded in 2018 by the Savannah Bananas, Banana Ball has transformed baseball into a fast-paced entertainment spectacle, combining athletic competition with fan interaction, dancing and unique rules designed to keep the action moving. That excitement made its way to the Jersey Shore this week as ShoreTown Ballpark in Lakewood hosting a three-game Banana Ball series June 11-13 (Thursday through Saturday). The Loco Beach Coconuts, the league's newest franchise, took on the fan favorite Party Animals, who won the inaugural Banana Ball championship, in front of packed crowds eager to experience the phenomenon firsthand.The Pregame HypeHours before the first pitch Friday night, ShoreTown Ballpark was already buzzing.Thousands of fans lined up outside the stadium nearly 4 hours before game time, hoping to secure autographs and photos with the players. The experience started long before anyone heard "play ball," as players from both teams signed memorabilia and interacted with supporters throughout the plaza.The festivities continued with batting practice sessions, backstage experiences and live entertainment before gates officially opened an hour and a half before first pitch. For many fans, the pregame experience is just as important as the game itself.By the time the teams took the field, thousands of fans had already spent hours immersed in the Banana Ball experience.MORE: Banana Ball at the Jersey Shore; one more game left Saturday, how to get ticketsWelcome to Loco BeachIf there was one phrase repeated throughout the evening, it was that "Loco Beach is a state of mind."The Coconuts' beach-themed atmosphere transformed ShoreTown Ballpark into a summer party. The public address announcer introduced himself simply as "The Dude," while Coconuts Head Coach Mark Crocco worked the crowd long before the game began, encouraging everyone to get on their feet."I learned what it took to be a Banana Ball player by being a Banana Ball coach," Crocco said. "A fans-first sport, but also ultimate competitors that everyday show up and compete at a high level and do it for others."One of the stars of the evening was CJ Kirwin, known as the "King of the Beach" and boasting more than 800,000 followers on TikTok. Alongside entertainer AJ Kirsch, Kirwin helped turn the ballpark into a giant party.Before the first pitch, fans participated in a stadium-wide wave while others joined in a Whitney Houston drum challenge that set the tone for the rest of the night.More Than BaseballBanana Ball's appeal extends beyond what happens between the foul lines."It's essentially baseball for anyone with ADHD," said Kekoa Mana, a member of the Coconuts' Hulagans dance squad. "There's nonstop action. There's always something going on. There's music playing constantly throughout the game. There's always someone dancing."Mana explained that performers make it a priority to connect with every fan in attendance."We want to make sure that we are always fans first at the end of the day," Mana said. "We want to make sure that we reach all the people in the nosebleeds and left field and right field so they have that interaction."That commitment to the fans is what many players believe separates Banana Ball from traditional baseball."The most important thing is to impact the fans," Coconuts catcher Ashby Vining said. "To see the kids and all the people who come with all these issues going on in their life and they can come here for 5 or 6 hours and not only see the greatest show in sports, but be able to forget all that and just be in a positive environment."A Concert, Comedy Show and Baseball GameThroughout the evening, it often felt like a concert had broken out in the middle of a baseball game.One of the night's loudest moments came during a crowd sing-off when Kirwin and Kirsch divided the stadium into opposing sections. The first-base side battled the third-base side as thousands of fans belted out Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now," Miley Cyrus' "Party in the U.S.A." and Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance with Somebody."Later, the crowd became captivated by Noodle Knockdown, a competition featuring representatives from both teams battling with pool noodles. The contest reached absurd levels when the Party Animals representative faked a back injury before the Coconuts contestant responded with a pool-noodle chokehold that sent the audience into hysterics.Between innings, players cruised around the field on mobile scooters while dancers and entertainers filled every second of downtime.Perhaps the most memorable crowd moment came in the eighth inning when nearly 10,000 fans joined together to sing Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds." Children, parents and grandparents sang in unison, creating one of the most unique scenes of the evening.Moments later, an older woman became an unlikely star when she caught a foul ball using her sun hat. Under Banana Ball rules, a fan-caught foul ball counts as an out for the batting team. The crowd rewarded her effort with a standing ovation as she took a bow from her seat.The Baseball Wasn't Bad EitherLost among the dancing, singing and chaos was a competitive game.The Party Animals eventually secured a 2-0 victory, highlighted by Tanner Thomas' towering fourth-inning home run. As soon as the ball cleared the fence, the Party Animals celebrated by dancing to "Girls" by The Kid Laroi.The Coconuts quickly responded with their signature "Tsunami," unleashing sprinklers and water cannons throughout the stadium.Vining provided one of the night's best defensive plays in the fifth inning. After a low throw pulled first baseman Jordan Brewer off the bag, Vining sprinted behind first base, made a diving stop and quickly threw out a runner attempting to advance.For Vining, performing in New Jersey carried special significance after spending two seasons at Saint Peter's University."It's special," Vining said. "I actually did an at-bat with the Saint Peter's jersey on, which meant a lot. The crowd loved it, and it was cool to be back in Jersey."The game remained competitive until the final inning, where the Coconuts mounted one last rally but came up just short.The Future Is BrightThe rapid growth of Banana Ball was a common theme among players and coaches throughout the weekend.Party Animals shortstop Chase Achuff, who has been involved with the league since its early days, said he never imagined the sport would reach its current level of popularity."To see how this has grown into what it is, I truly never expected it," Achuff said.Several players also believe the six-team league will continue expanding in the coming years."If we keep growing like we're going, I don't think it'd be surprising if we see some more," Vining said."I definitely think there's going to be more coming in the future," Party Animals outfielder TJ Reeves said. "Banana Ball keeps rolling."A Love Letter to New JerseyAfter nine innings of baseball, dancing, trick plays, music and nonstop entertainment, the show still wasn't over.Fans remained in the ballpark after the final out for photos and autographs and one last chance to interact with players.Before the crowd dispersed, Kirwin stepped forward with a final message."New Jersey, we couldn't do this without you," he said.Moments later, he added, "New Jersey, we love you."Judging by the thousands of fans who spent hours singing, dancing and cheering at ShoreTown Ballpark, the feeling appeared to be mutual.This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Banana Ball, Savannah Bananas baseball brings beach party to NJ Shore

🎥 Mbappé’s new celebration: flute if he scores v Senegal? 🎶Will Kylian Mbappé celebrate differently if he scores against Senegal? A fun interview between the Real Madrid star and James Corden leaves the door open to that possibility.In fact, the French forward has promised that if he scores in France’s opener, he will celebrate by mimicking the gesture of playing the flute. Corden suggested the idea, and Mbappé accepted without hesitation.The origin of the promise lies in a previous confession from the player himself: when he was little, his parents encouraged him to explore activities beyond football, and for one or two years he played the flute. “It was fun,” he admitted, although he ruled out ever having mastered it.Corden did not miss the opportunity and got the much-desired image of Mbappé with a flute in hand, with modest results but enough for the English host to feel encouraged to ask him for the celebration.The Real Madrid forward arrives at the World Cup as one of the leading favorites to win the Golden Boot. France make their debut next June 16 against Senegal, and the celebration—if it happens—would be one of the images of the tournament.Mbappé has already spent several World Cups carrying the weight of being the best player in the world, and he wants to lift the trophy again. Imagine him doing it while playing an imaginary flute in the middle of the box...This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty ImagesPink boots have become one of the most noticeable trends of the World Cup, and the reason is more commercial than mysterious.Across the opening matches, viewers have spotted bright pink footwear everywhere, making it look like half the tournament agreed on one color before kickoff.That is not far from the truth. The trend is being driven by boot manufacturers, tournament marketing, and the simple fact that pink jumps off the screen against a green pitch.Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty ImagesWhy so many World Cup players are wearing pink bootsThe main reason so many players are wearing pink boots is that major brands launched World Cup-specific colorways built for maximum visibility.Nike, Adidas, Puma, and New Balance have all leaned into bright pink or pink-heavy designs around the tournament, which creates the feeling of one coordinated look even when players are wearing different brands.It works because pink is hard to miss. On television, in slow-motion replays, and under stadium lights, bright boots turn a player’s feet into a moving advert.That matters at a World Cup, where every close-up, goal replay, and celebration can sell the boot as much as the player wearing it.The color also fits the North American tournament vibe. A bold summer shade feels more marketable in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico than a traditional black boot campaign.Bukayo Saka and Endrick were seen in pink boots, while many players in early tournament matches also wore similar shades.Bright boot trends are not new in footballThis is not the first time a major tournament has been shaped by boot color.For decades, black boots dominated football. Then white, silver, red, and neon designs became part of the sport’s visual language as brands realized boots could be personality pieces as well as equipment.The 1998 World Cup was a turning point, with Ronaldo’s silver Nike Mercurials helping make bold boots feel futuristic rather than strange.In 2014, Nike’s bright Volt boots and Adidas’ black-and-white Battle Pack made the World Cup pitch look like a brand showcase. Other tournaments have had neon, metallic, or coordinated color-pack moments too.Pink has history as well. Nike’s pink Mercurial Vapor releases helped make the color less unusual long before this World Cup.So the answer is simple: players are not making one shared statement. Brands have found a color that pops, sells, and dominates the broadcast. At this World Cup, that color is pink.Read more:Full list of people barred from US for World Cup by Donald Trump administrationBritish broadcaster says USMNT ‘shocked the world’ with ‘unbelievable’ win over ParaguayChristian Pulisic surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup assist tally in 17 fewer games

Amari’s dream brought to life by Inter and Fondazione TelethonA story of hope and dreams coming true, made possible by a shared love of football and Inter: Amari is a seven-year-old boy from Trinidad who was born with a rare genetic condition and treated in Milano thanks to gene therapy developed by researchers at Fondazione Telethon.His story had already been told in a documentary by YouTuber Emalloru. During a trip to the Caribbean island, the creator met young Amari and learned about his story, as well as his deep passion for football. That’s why Emalloru made him a promise - that one day he would take him to San Siro.A beautiful dream made possible by Inter and Fondazione Telethon. The Club kept the promise made to Amari, giving him an unforgettable walkabout experience ahead of Inter vs. Pisa in January. The youngster visited the San Siro changing rooms, walked through the mixed zone and stepped out pitchside, experiencing first-hand what the Nerazzurri players feel every time they run out at the Meazza. The experience continued with a truly special moment as the teams entered the pitch, with Amari accompanying captain Lautaro Martinez onto the San Siro turf - a place that for him represented a dream come true. The evening ended with a special post-match meet-and-greet with the Inter squad, where Amari took photos and collected autographs, sharing an unforgettable moment with the team. A key part of this story is Federico, the Fondazione Telethon research nurse who supported Amari throughout his treatment journey. A devoted Inter fan, Federico passed on his passion to Amari: entering San Siro with the boy he had cared for felt like the closing of a circle, bringing together his love for Inter and his dedication to a job he carries out every day with the aim of building meaningful bonds with his patients.These unique emotions were shared by Federico in a special interview. A wonderful, one-of-a-kind story made possible thanks to Inter’s support for Fondazione Telethon, whose research continues to change people’s lives every day.

Report new Juventus director targets Liverpool pairReports in Italy claim that new Juventus director Giovanni Carnevali intends to build a solid core of Italian players at the Allianz Stadium, so he’s targeted Liverpool’s Federico Chiesa and Giovanni Leoni as well as Fiorentina’s Cher Ndour.La Gazzetta dello Sport and Tuttosport report that one of the targets of new Juventus director Carnevali will be to sign more Italian players than in the past to help coach Luciano Spalletti build a strong identity next season.Juventus target Liverpool’s Chiesa and LeoniAccording to Gazzetta, two of the Bianconeri’s targets for the summer play at Liverpool, as Carnevali has set his sights on both Chiesa and Leoni.LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 20: Federico Chiesa of Liverpool gestures during warming up prior to the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on December 20, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)Chiesa has already admitted he did not want to leave Juventus in 2024 and said he’s open to returning to the Allianz Stadium.Leoni, on the other hand, had an unfortunate debut season at Liverpool, suffering a cruciate ligament injury in his first game, which sidelined him for the entire campaign.LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Giovanni Leoni of Liverpool controls the ball whilst under pressure from Leo Scienza of Southampton during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)According to Gazzetta, Juventus are also keeping a close eye on Fiorentina’s Ndour, who has recently made his senior Italy debut under Silvio Baldini, and Sassuolo’s Domenico Berardi, who might reunite with Carnevali after spending his entire career at Sassuolo.Gazzetta notes that Fiorentina see Ndour as a key player for their future, while Juventus could offer Fabio Miretti in a player-plus-cash swap.

Pochettino gives fitness update on USA star PulisicMauricio Pochettino said that Christian Pulisiic injury is no “big issue” after he was substituted at half time against Paraguay.Thanks to a double from Folarin Balogun a goal from Gio Reyna and an own goal scored by Damian Bobadilla, USA ran out 4-1 winners over Paraguay in their first match of the 2026 World Cup.However, things were not all bright for America as Pulisic went off at half time with a calf issue, Pochettino gave an update on his fitness after the match.“He received a kick in his calf and he felt tight at the end of the first half,” he explanied. “We didn’t want to take any risks. It was difficult for him to walk but hope that it is not a big issue and he can be ready for the next one.”Despite that problem, the result was perfect for the USA. Pochettino explained how proud he was of his side.“So, so proud. Players and staff deserved big credit for this performance,” he said.“The most important is the performance and the feeling. We know it is only the start and it is nothing. It is only one game. Now we need to be intelligent to keep [going] in that direction.“But we are so happy because the first game is always so difficult, hosting the World Cup, the expectation but we managed the expectation and pressure. The first 45 minutes were amazing, difficult to find a team to play like this. So happy and so proud.”“The support was amazing,” he added. “That is what we were waiting for. When you talk about America, that passion, that feeling. Now they realise that soccer in America is massive, it’s big.”

Marseille interested in Lorient’s Pablo PagisOlympique de Marseille have joined the race to sign FC Lorient playmaker Pablo Pagis (23), according to a report from Ouest-France.Pagis, who came through the academy at Lorient, is coming off the back of a breakthrough season in which he scored 10 goals in 28 appearances in Ligue 1. The Frenchman has announced a desire to leave Les Merlus, however, the Breton club won’t simply be giving him away, even if he has just one year remaining on his deal.A price tag of €10m was initially floated, but that was denied by president Loic Féry, who said that it would take €20m to lure Pagis away from the Moustoir.RC Lens, who next season will compete in the UEFA Champions League, have shown an interest already, as have Paris FC. Marseille are the latest club to show an interest in signing the No.10, although Ouest-France adds that negotiations have yet to start.GFFN | Luke Entwistle