Infantino reveals that Del Piero was behind the change to World Cup walk-outsFIFA President Gianni Infantino has revealed that Juventus and Italy legend Alessandro Del Piero was the man behind the idea to change the walk-outs at the World Cup to involve all 26 members of the squad rather than just the starting 11.How Del Piero convinced Infantino to change in World Cup walk-outsA number of changes to the laws of the game have been implemented at the 2026 World Cup in North America, some of which have been well received, others less so.One of the changes that has gone down fairly well across the board is the decision for all 26 squad members to walk out onto the pitch before matches and take part in the singing of the national anthems, rather than just the starting 11.This is a change that allows all members of the squad to ‘have their moment’, to feel part of the team, especially for those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to play.Infantino, speaking at a recent press conference, has revealed that this change in procedure was originally suggested to him by former Juventus and Italy star Del Piero.BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 10: Former football player Alessandro Del Piero looks on prior to the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Real Madrid C.F. at Stadio di Bergamo on December 10, 2024 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)“For the first time, all of the players, a total of 26 players, will be on the pitch. There will be huge flags and the national anthems will be heard with enormous flags and with the whole team out on the pitch,” Infantino began.“Where did that come from? Well, as you know, we always want to do new things, and we thought it had to be something American, business, I don’t know, showtime. No. This was born out of a conversation I had with Alessandro Del Piero.“Alessandro Del Piero a few months ago told me: ‘Why don’t you start bringing all of the players out onto the pitch during the anthem?’. I said ‘Why?’. ‘Because we’re all part of the same team’.”FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 13: Scotland players line up for the national anthem before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C match between Haiti and Scotland at Boston Stadium on June 13, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)Infantino continued: “I don’t know if it’s because the goal he scored, one of the most beautiful World Cup goals, Italy’s goal for 2-0 against Germany in Dortmund in the 2006 World Cup, he came off the bench and scored this incredible goal. I don’t know if that’s the reason why he said it, but he said we’re all part of the same team.DORTMUND, GERMANY – JULY 04: Alessandro Del Piero of Italy scores his team’s second goal in extra time during the FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 Semi-final match between Germany and Italy played at the Stadium Dortmund on July 04, 2006 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Bongarts/Getty Images)“I thought he was right, so we started to discuss it all together and during a World Cup, all the players might not play, so it’s about making them feel part of this very emotional moment during the national anthems. I believe this is something positive for all of the players, for the supporters.”View this post on Instagram

Cody Gakpo asking price revealed as Tottenham switch mootedCody Gakpo has been unbelievably bad for Liverpool this season. Last term, he contributed to 25-goals during their Premier League-winning campaign but, after Arne Slot changed his system, neither Gakpo nor Mohamed Salah had their strengths played to.This resulted in a lack of output from the duo but, even then, Salah still managed to get over 20 goal contributions.Gakpo was the polar opposite of this. Whether he was used as a striker or a winger, nothing clicked which has resulted in rumours about his future floating around.And now, how much the Reds would likely demand for the attacker has been revealed.Liverpool want £70 million for Cody Gakpo this summerAs you can probably tell, Liverpool's attack is one of the main areas that they need to upgrade this summer.Salah has left and, even before the Egyptian King chose to exit, it still felt like the Reds were an attacker short, especially since Slot didn't trust Federico Chiesa whatsoever.However, in order for them to sign some new players, they need to move some of their own on and, with how bad Gakpo's form has been, it wouldn't be surprising to see Andoni Iraola and Richard Hughes let him go.That is, especially if they can get as much as Ben Jacobs is reporting that Liverpool want for him."Cody Gakpo hasn’t told Liverpool directly he wants to leave," he wrote via his personal X account."However, there has been recent interest in Gakpo from Italy, and Bayern from last summer."Liverpool not actively looking to sell and have noted the fee on Anthony Gordon’s £70m Barcelona move, which would inform their valuation. Gakpo is well contracted until 2030."Liverpool also have no plans to keep Mo Salah despite comments from Egyptian goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy that 'things could change.'"Cody Gakpo could do with a new environmentEven though Gakpo's performance levels have been impressive at times, they've dropped drastically over the last year or so.And, because of this, Liverpool's fanbase are starting to lose their patience with him which is far from ideal for anyone.£70 million is a lot of money and, since the Reds are being quoted at least £60 million for most of their targets, Gakpo's sale could be a massive boost in the right direction.A change of clubs could also help the Dutchman re-find his best form and, since Tottenham have narrowly avoided relegation for the last two seasons in a row, anything is better than what they currently have.This, coupled with the fact that Andy Robertson now plays for Spurs makes Tottenham a viable move for Gakpo, especially since Roberto De Zerbi is keen on bringing the attacker in.

Gaethje was congratulated by President Trump after the event [Getty Images]Justin Gaethje provided the perfect ending for American fans at the White House as he shocked Ilia Topuria to win the UFC undisputed lightweight title.American Gaethje, 37, shrugged off his underdog tag as he stopped Topuria at the end of the fourth round to become undisputed champion for the first time.Gaethje hurt Topuria multiple times in a brutal contest as the Georgian-Spaniard retired on his stool before the fifth round for the first defeat of his 18-fight career.The one-of-a-kind show, billed as UFC Freedom 250, took place on US President Donald Trump's 80th birthday as part of celebrations to mark 250 years of American independence.After securing victory, which UFC commentator Joe Rogan called "one of the biggest upsets in the history of the sport", Gaethje did his signature backflip from the top of the cage before shaking hands with Trump.In a rousing post-fight interview, Gaethje compared his underdog status to Americans who once fought for their country's independence."I'm from America, 250 years ago we were way bigger than 6-1 dogs, and look at us thriving now," said Gaethje."To all the current, former and future military service members, thank you so much."In the co-main event, Ciryl Gane ended Alex Pereira's hopes of becoming the UFC's first three-division champion with a second-round stoppage in their interim heavyweight title fight.Eric Trump says 'rigged' UFC fight messages were AI fakesTrump hosts UFC cage fight on the White House lawnFury teases Joshua fight at UFC White House alongside WhiteGaethje wins long-awaited titleThe event was held to celebrate 250 years of American independence [Getty Images]The White House has hosted recreational sports and events before, but the event on the South Lawn marked the first professional live sporting show to take place on the grounds.There were worries in the build-up that thunderstorms in Washington DC could cause delays, and although rain postponed the start of the event by around half an hour, it ran smoothly from there.The show opened with President Trump and beaming UFC president Dana White walking through the White House to the Truman Balcony overlooking the octagon, before a rendition of the national anthem took place while US Air Force jets cruised overhead.About 4,300 people watched the event on the South Lawn, most of whom were members of the US military, who chanted "USA" in support of the American fighters on the card.Trump watched the event octagon-side alongside White, while the United States Marine Band serenaded fighters during their walkouts, which started from inside the White House.Gaethje started his walkout in the Oval Office, where he took a moment to soak in the occasion, before walking past portraits of previous US presidents.Topuria, who is a former champion at featherweight before he moved up to claim the lightweight belt, struggled to impose the power he has shown in previous bouts as Gaethje traded shots in the first round.Although Topuria dropped Gaethje with a number of stinging body shots in the second round, the American took control from there, to the delight of the fans at octagon-side and 85,000 watching in the nearby Ellipse park.He knocked Topuria down with a huge right hand and continued to punish him with uppercuts and knees, causing his opponent's bloodied face to start to swell.The doctor was called in to look at Topuria before the fourth round, and although he bravely fought on, his corner retired him before the final round with the 29-year-old unable to take any more damage.Victory means Gaethje, who is considered one of the most exciting fighters in UFC history, claimed his first undisputed title at the third attempt as he was rewarded with a commemorative red, white and blue belt."I am made for this moment, this sport was made for me. I'm the most exciting guy that's ever been in this cage," he added.Justin Gaethje has won 28 of his 33 professional fights [Getty Images]Gane ends Pereira's three-belt dreamAfter winning titles at middleweight and light-heavyweight, Pereira was looking to make UFC history with a title in a third division but was outclassed by Gane.Gane, 36, has navigated numerous fights throughout his career with his fluid movement and it once again paid dividends against Pereira.After hurting the Brazilian with jabs and body kicks in the first round before escaping out of harm's way, Gane landed the decisive strike.As Pereira stepped in, Gane dropped the 38-year-old with a perfectly timed jab and although he got back to his feet, the referee waved off the contest as the Frenchman overwhelmed his dazed opponent.Victory meant Gane became a two-time interim heavyweight champion in his first fight since a bout against British champion Tom Aspinall in October.That fight was deemed a no contest because of repeated eye pokes from Gane which left Aspinall unable to continue, and he called for a rematch in October."I just want to see thank you to Dana and the UFC, thank you to Pereira," said Gane.MMA schedule and results 2026Watch every Born to Brawl episode More MMA from the BBC Notifications, social media and more with BBC Sport

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson had been deemed too small, by many a pundit, to be the man on a world championship team. Well, it turns out they were all dead wrong.On Saturday night, Brunson dropped 45 points to guide the Knicks to a Game 5 win over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals. The victory clinched the franchise their first title since 1973, and left the 6-foot-2, 190-pound guard on top of the basketball world.So, uh, Carolina Panthers fans—do you know of a professional sports club with an undersized leader and a long-time championship drought . . . ?In honor of the Knicks' magical season, Bryan DeArdo of CBS Sports just ranked the NFL teams that are most likely to end their Super Bowl-less runs in 2026. Of the 17 franchises listed, DeArdo has the Panthers at No. 11:Carolina's chances of repeating as division champs will largely depend on the health of starters Ikem Ekwonu and Tershawn Wharton. Ekwonu continues to work his way back from a knee injury sustained in January. Wharton recently underwent a neck procedure and is expected to start training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.Quarterback Bryce Young will also need to elevate his game if the Panthers are going to become a legitimate Super Bowl contender. While his growth over the past two years has been impressive, Young needs to become more of a playmaker and less of a game manager.As DeArdo notes, Young has shown some progress. This past year, while helping the Panthers to their first playoff appearance since 2017 and their first NFC South crown since 2015, the former No. 1 overall pick threw for career-highs in yards (3,011), touchdowns (23) and completion rate (63.6 percent).But Young has still left a bit to be desired. He's passed for at least 250 yards in just seven of his 44 pro starts, a ratio that simply won't get it done in today's NFL.If he can take another step up, however, perhaps the Panthers can get closer to capturing the first Lombardi Trophy of their 32-year existence.Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Can the Panthers be the Knicks of the NFL in 2026?

President Donald Trump sat cageside.First Lady Melania Trump sat on his left. Dana White sat to his right. And fighters greeted him after victories.Not a bad way to celebrate an 80th birthday. Unprecedented. Controversial. Memorable.It would be hard to forget the 12-plane flyover at the start.Or the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard from the Military District of Washington marching.Or the Zac Brown Band singing the national anthem.What first-time viewers learned and what veteran viewers relearned is that mixed martial arts is not for the weak. Or for the faint of heart.There was no need for judges’ scorecards during the first six fights. All ended by knockout or technical knockout.How some of these men celebrated could not have been more different.Heavyweight Josh Hokit insulted Michelle Obama.Middleweight Mauricio Ruffy proposed to the mother of his children.Trump wore a blue suit and a white hat emblazoned with letters appropriate for the celebration of the country’s 250th birthday.USA.UFC Freedom 250 highlightsGaethje beats Topuria in bloody battleJUSTIN GAETHJE JUST DROPPED ILIA TOPURIA IN ROUND 3 🤯[ #UFCWhiteHouse | LIVE ON @ParamountPlus ] pic.twitter.com/LWeh5BdzG0— UFC on Paramount+ (@UFConParamount) June 15, 2026Justin Gaethje delivered.In riveting and remarkable fashion.Gaethje, the American underdog, stunned Ilia Topuria xxx and won the lightweight championship in the main event at UFC Freedom 250 in front of President Donald Trump on the South Lawn of the White House.It was the first loss of Topuria’s career and his record fell to 17-1, and he his face was battered almost beyond recognition. The cage side physician called the right after examining Topuria after the third round. But Topuria said he wanted to fight and they allowed the fight to continue.But he Gaethje prevailed, and after he did he celebrated with a backflip off the top of the Octagon fence.Josh Hokit targets Michelle Obama in post-victory remarksJosh Hokit might have hit a new low with his post-victory remarks.After beating Derrick Lewis by second-round TKO in their heavyweight fight, Hokit began, “I’m man with the plan, the beast that’s ready to feast. You know what, (expletive) this speech.’’First Hokit shouted out Trump for holding the event.Then he acknowledged his “lord and savior.’’Then things took a turn for the worse. Much worse.“Now listen, Alex Pereira, I’m going to chama on your mama,’’ he said. “And lastly, Michelle O’Bama, is a man! Am I right, America?’’The response from Joe Rogan, who conducts the in-ring interviews?“Ladies and gentlemen, Josh Hokit,'' Rogan said.UFC White House features wedding proposal after epic knockoutIt’s a good thing Mauricio Ruffy didn’t get his face bashed in by Michael Chandler in their lightweight fight. It might have foiled his plans.During his post-fight interview in the Octagon after Ruffy knocked out Chandler, he proposed to the mother of his children.Ruffy looked out into the crowd, presumably where the mother of his children was sitting.Joe Rogan, who was conducting the interview, asked if Ruffy got a yes.Ruffy responded with a thumbs up.He said he previously did not have enough money to marry her.Tyson Fury makes appearance at UFC Freedom 250A 6-foot-9 Brit made his entrance between fights at the UFC Freedom 250.He's ready to fight, too, but not inside the Octagon.Tyson Fury, the former heavyweight boxing champion, has agreed to fight Anthony Joshua later this year.So why was Fury at the White House? Well, Dana White has said he will be promoting the blockbuster fight.But Fury declined to disclose any details -- or to get inside the Octagon.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: UFC White House highlights from unforgettable UFC Freedom 250

A day after the National Symphony Orchestra played perhaps its final notes at the Kennedy Center for years, mixed martial artists brawled outside the White House.

A prolonged drought means the nation’s largest reservoirs are dwindling, and litigation over access to water could lay ahead.

The first half of the year had few big, buzzy hits. But there were some nice surprises (“Widow’s Bay”) and returning favorites (“The Comeback”).

Secret memos show that the White House debated last year, to a greater degree than previously known, whether to limit habeas corpus rights for undocumented immigrants.

Tuesday’s runoff for a slot on the Alabama Public Service Commission has a familiar ring to it, with talk of data centers and electricity costs. But in a southern twist, solar power has joined the list of villains.

Where to watch Calder Cup Finals 2026: Schedule, times, channels, live streams, scores for AHL hockey series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Neither the Chicago Wolves nor the Toronto Marlies were dominant during the AHL regular season, but their resilience has shown during the playoffs, leaving them as the last two standing in pursuit of the Calder Cup.The Wolves finished sixth in the Western Conference standings, while the Marlies were seventh in the East, but they have found a way to win when it really matters, navigating the postseason in series that mostly went the distance. Of the combined seven series they have survived to get here, five of them went the maximum number of games. That should set up a competitive Calder Cup Finals where each franchise will look to add to its trophy case. The Wolves have won the Cup three times, most recently in 2022, while the Marlies' lone Cup win in two Finals appearances came in 2018.Who will get to hoist the hardware in 2026? Here's all you need to know to watch every game. Where to watch Calder Cup Finals 2026TV channel: N/ALive stream:AHLTV on FloHockeyThe Calder Cup Finals will not air on traditional TV channels. Instead, viewers can watch every game of the AHL postseason via AHLTV on FloHockey, which gives subscribers access to live streams, event replays and FloSports Originals.Calder Cup Finals schedule, scores 2026No. 2 Chicago Wolves vs. No. 4 TorontoMarliesDateGameTime (ET)/ScoreJune 12Game 1 at ChicagoToronto 4, Chicago 2June 14Game 2 at ChicagoToronto 5, Chicago 4 (OT)June 16Game 3 at Toronto7 p.m.June 18Game 4 at Toronto7 p.m.June 19Game 5 at Toronto*7 p.m.June 21Game 6 at Chicago*4 p.m.June 23Game 7 at Chicago*8 p.m.How Calder Cup Finals teams got hereRoundChicago WolvesToronto MarliesFirst RoundByeDef. Rochester Americans 2-1Division SemifinalsDef. Texas Stars 3-2Def. Laval Rocket 3-2Division FinalsDef. Grand Rapids Griffins 3-1Def. Cleveland Monsters 3-2Conference FinalsDef. Colorado Eagles 4-3Def. W-B/Scranton Penguins 4-2Calder Cup winners listHere are the last 10 Calder Cup winners. There were no playoffs in 2020 or 2021 due to COVID-19.YearChampionRunner-up2025Abbotsford CanucksCharlotte Checkers2024Hershey BearsCoachella Valley Firebirds2023Hershey BearsCoachella Valley Firebirds2022Chicago WolvesSpringfield Thunderbirds2019Charlotte CheckersChicago Wolves2018Toronto MarliesTexas Stars2017Grand Rapids GriffinsSyracuse Crunch2016Lake Erie MonstersHershey Bears2015Manchester MonarchsUtica Comets2014Texas StarsSt. John's IceCaps

Penn State wide receiver Ethan Black during football media day in Holuba Hall on Saturday, August 2, 2025, in State College. | Dan Rainville / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images We’re just 82 days from the start of the 2026 Penn State Football season!Let’s mark the occasion by giving the spotlight to someone who quietly makes the team better – wide receiver Ethan Black. The Davidsville, PA, native earned his spot on the roster the hard way – as an undersized walk-on. Despite his lack of size at 5-9, 160 lbs., Black had a standout career for Conemaugh Township. During his senior season alone, he produced 1,645 all-purpose yards with 18 touchdowns, while also collecting 39 tackles and four interceptions on defense. As a true freshman, Black was honored as the team’s Developmental Squad Offensive Player of the Year. It was clearly a productive year despite taking a redshirt season. The award signifies a strong work ethic and giving a consistent effort to make the team better at each turn. Black was able to see the field on special teams in 2024, and made his first tackle in a Nittany Lion uniform against Maryland. He continued his work as a special teamer in 2025, while also being named Academic All-Big Ten for the first time. Just 82 more days until Penn State hits the field!

Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty ImagesVirgil van Dijk had already scored in the Netherlands’ World Cup opener, but one new tournament rule still left him frustrated after the draw with Japan.The Dutch captain headed the Netherlands in front at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, only for Japan to fight back in a 2-2 Group F draw. Van Dijk played a strong individual game, but his postgame answer showed his concern went beyond the result.That is what made the moment interesting. He was not rejecting player safety, but he clearly questioned whether every World Cup match needs the same stoppage, no matter the conditions.Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesVirgil van Dijk questions World Cup hydration breaks after Japan drawVan Dijk YouTube showed the Netherlands captain being asked about a hydration break in an indoor stadium, and his answer focused on commercials and the viewing experience.Van Dijk said, “I think hydration breaks are really interesting. I was obviously watching almost all of the games up until today. I think every time going to commercials is a bit, not really something that I like.“I think for the neutral watchers on TV it is also not great. So if it is really hot it would be good to put them in but I think you have to look at it in every game, separately, in my opinion. But I think I have said enough already on that.”The fuss is not really about water. FIFA’s 2026 World Cup policy has made hydration breaks mandatory in every match, which has created debate because some games are being played indoors or in controlled conditions.Netherlands Japan draw showed why match rhythm matters to Van DijkThe timing of Van Dijk’s criticism mattered because the Netherlands had just lost control of a game they twice led. Van Dijk opened the scoring after halftime, and Crysencio Summerville later restored the Dutch advantage.Japan refused to fade. Keito Nakamura equalized first, before Daichi Kamada struck in the 88th minute from a set-piece situation that Van Dijk admitted was not acceptable for a team with Dutch quality.Individually, Van Dijk had plenty to like. He scored, played the full match, passed the ball cleanly and remained a major defensive presence despite Japan’s late pressure.That is why his hydration-break point should not be framed as an excuse. It was a broader complaint about flow, television interruptions and whether player-welfare rules need more flexibility.Van Dijk’s view was measured, but clear. Hydration breaks make sense in real heat, but the World Cup may not need a one-size-fits-all rule for every stadium.Read more:Jurgen Klopp apologises to Julian Nagelsmann after one word sparks Germany stormScotland fans spent 25x less to attend MLB game than World Cup game vs HaitiWhy Japan fans stayed behind after their World Cup opener is touching hearts around the world

Audi F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg revealed that a stone hit his car and activated the kill switch during the Barcelona Grand Prix, ending the race for the F1 veteran. Hulkenberg was engaged in a battle with Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson, who went a little wide at the exit of Turn 12, putting one wheel in the gravel. The RB’s rear wheel ensured it shot stones onto Hulkenberg’s Audi R26 F1 car, puncturing the car’s nose and activating the kill switch.Onboard footage showed the Audi immediately losing drive after Lawson went off the race track, prompting the disappointed German driver to return to the pits. However, the car could not be started again, bringing his race to an end. Speaking about the bizarre incident, Hulkenberg told Planet F1:“He put a wheel in the gravel exit of [Turn] 12, kicked up a lot of gravel, and that gravel somehow one stone pulled the emergency trigger on the left of the roll hoop, and it just killed the car.”Apr 30, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Audi driver Nico Hulkenberg (27) arrives to the paddock area at Miami International Autodrome. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn ImagesHulkenberg made his F1 debut in 2010 with Williams, but mentioned that he had never seen or heard of an incident like this in his career. He added:“I would have never seen or heard about this to be honest in my career.“Very unlucky, strange… The timing of that, when you see what happened at the end, two higher placed cars dropping out….“The racing world doesn’t want us to score yet.” Unfortunately, his teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, finished the race outside the points in P11, making it a no-points race weekend for Audi in Barcelona.Lawson, who was unaware that his error had ended another driver’s race, reacted with surprise after he was told about Hulkenberg’s race retirement. He said:“Are you serious!?“No way. Oh, that’s so unfortunate! Obviously, I had no idea, and if I could perfectly aim for something like that…!“I had no idea. I just knew that he, that he dropped out.”Lawson managed to finish in eighth place and score points. ¡SURREALISTA! Una PIEDRA apagó el Audi de Hulkenberg, lo que le obligó a retirarse:Hulkenberg: "Me encontré con algo de grava después de que Lawson se saliera de la pista. Una piedra golpeó el interruptor de apagado del ERS y el coche se apagó. Se acabó la carrera".… pic.twitter.com/x0lTHA8zlX— Fórmula Directa (@FormulaDirecta) June 14, 2026

Between now and training camp, we will be going through the Jacksonville Jaguars' full 90-man roster, previewing each player.Up first is wide receiver Michael Wortham, who wears No. 0.ProfileHeight: 5-9Weight: 190Age: 23Experience: RookieCollege: MontanaHow long has Michael Wortham been with the Jaguars?The Jaguars signed Wortham after the 2026 NFL draft as an undrafted rookie.Michael Wortham's college careerDuring the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Wortham totaled just 32 targets at Eastern Washington, but this past year at Montana, he took on a major role within the offense. Wortham finished the 2025 season recording 100 targets. He was extremely efficient as a pass-catcher, hauling in 80 of those passes, while totaling 1,137 yards with nine touchdowns. Most of his career snaps came from the slot. Wortham averaged an impressive 14.2 yards per catch last season.2026 NFL season outlookWide receiver was a position on the Jaguars' radar this offseason, but after GM James Gladstone drafted CJ Williams and Josh Cameron, this room became quite crowded. Those two wideouts -- who impressed during minicamp -- joined Brian Thomas Jr., Parker Washington, Jakobi Meyers, and Travis Hunter. It's possible that just these six make up the Jaguars' 2026 wide receiver room.There is also experience on the back end of the Jaguars' wide receiver depth chart, as well, in Austin Trammell and Tim Jones. Realistically, making the practice squad may be the most likely landing spot for Wortham coming out of training camp. The ability to help on special teams will be an important part of the evaluation process.This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars training camp player preview: WR Michael Wortham

President Trump said Iran had promised to suspend enriching uranium, but it is unclear for how long and the details still have to be negotiated.

Artists on what a more utopian version of their field might look like.

T’s annual Art issue explores how the idea of a good if elusive place has inspired great art, and vice versa.

Women who can’t take hormone therapy because of breast cancer or other diseases say they are deeply frustrated.

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Gareth Southgate has revealed he opted against taking on a role as a television pundit for what is his first World Cup since parting ways with England.Southgate left his role as England manager after suffering defeat in the Euro 2024 final, ending an eight-year spell with the setup that saw him take the Three Lions to heights not reached in decades.He was succeeded by Thomas Tuchel in the hot seat, who leads the side into their Group L opener against Croatia on Wednesday.Instead of jumping back into the spotlight in a punditry capacity, Southgate vowed to stay “out of the way” and for that reason turned down opportunities to work in TV for the tournament.“This is obviously a very different tournament for me this one, I have been at the last seven World Cups as a player, as a broadcaster, as a scout and then as a manager,” Southgate said on Instagram, where he sent a good-luck message to the England squad.Gareth Southgate made the decision to keep “out of the way” at the World Cup (BBC/Cardiff Productions)“This time I took a conscious decision not to do the TV. I didn’t think it would be helpful for me to be talking about the team.“I don’t want anything to be misconstrued or thrown at them in press conferences. So, best for me to keep out of the way.”Southgate took England to back-to-back European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024 while also producing runs to the semi-finals and quarter-finals at his two World Cups at the helm.The former England international was unable to end what is now the country’s 60-year wait for major silverware but has backed Tuchel to deliver and insists “they are ready to win”.“I want to take a moment to say good luck to all the boys,” he added. “All the knockout nights they’ve had means they are going to be full of confidence going into the tournament.”“They have overcome so many hurdles to winning, penalty shootouts, semi-finals, we got so close and they are ready to win. I am looking forward to watching. I hope everybody has a great one and I will be staying out of the way.”

Why is there no Women's T20 World Cup 2026 match on Monday, June 15? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:No Women's T20 World Cup match is scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026.India beat Pakistan by 64 runs on Sunday afternoon. The break is likely a rest day after a packed opening weekend of fixtures.A day off after a blockbuster India vs Pakistan fixtureAfter a blockbuster evening, cricket fans tuning in on Monday, June 15, will find no Women's T20 World Cup 2026 action on their screens.Although India churned out a one-sided victory over Pakistan at Edgbaston, the excitement and hype before the eternal rivals locked horns were breaking through the roof. The ICC has not issued a formal statement on the gap in the schedule, but the logic is fairly clear.A tournament featuring 12 teams produces a heavy volume of matches across multiple venues in England and Wales, and a deliberate break helps prevent fixture congestion and player burnout. It also allows grounds and broadcast teams to reset ahead of the next round of games.MORE: 'Not sure India will go very far': Ashwin not convincedThe break comes at a point where the global sports calendar is particularly crowded. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already well underway, consuming a huge share of the world's sporting attention.Closer to home for Indian cricket fans, the Men in Blue have also been busy. The IPL 2026 season concluded only recently, and the India vs Afghanistan ODI series is currently running alongside the Women's T20 World Cup.A rest day during the women's tournament makes practical sense in a schedule that is already pulling audiences in multiple directions.Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Groups Group AGroup BIndiaEnglandPakistanNew ZealandAustraliaWest IndiesNetherlandsSri LankaBangladeshScotlandSouth AfricaIrelandMORE: Fastest fifty in women's T20 international cricketWomen's T20 World Cup 2026: Schedule and fixturesGroup ADateFixtureVenueLocal Time (BSTT)Time (IST)June 13Australia vs South AfricaOld Trafford, Manchester2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 14Bangladesh vs NetherlandsEdgbaston, Birmingham10:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.June 14India vs PakistanEdgbaston, Birmingham2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 17Australia vs BangladeshHeadingley, Leeds10:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.June 17India vs NetherlandsHeadingley, Leeds2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 17Pakistan vs South AfricaEdgbaston, Birmingham6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 20Australia vs NetherlandsRose Bowl, Southampton10:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.June 20Pakistan vs BangladeshOld Trafford, Manchester2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 21India vs South AfricaOld Trafford, Manchester2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 23Australia vs PakistanHeadingley, Leeds6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 25India vs BangladeshOld Trafford, Manchester2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 25South Africa vs NetherlandsCounty Ground, Bristol6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 27Pakistan vs NetherlandsCounty Ground, Bristol10:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.June 28South Africa vs BangladeshLord's, London10:30 p.m.3:00 p.m.June 28Australia vs IndiaLord's, London2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.MORE: 'New normal in IND-PAK matches': No-handshake continues at tossGroup BDateFixtureVenueLocal Time (BST)Time (IST)June 12England vs Sri LankaEdgbaston, Birmingham6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 13Scotland vs IrelandOld Trafford, Manchester10:30 a.m.3:00 p.m.June 13Netherlands vs West IndiesRose Bowl, Southampton6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 16New Zealand vs Sri LankaRose Bowl, Southampton2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 16England vs IrelandRose Bowl, Southampton6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 18West Indies vs ScotlandHeadingley, Leeds6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 19New Zealand vs IrelandRose Bowl, Southampton6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 20England vs ScotlandHeadingley, Leeds6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 21Sri Lanka vs West IndiesCounty Ground, Bristol10:30 a.m.3:00 p.m.June 23New Zealand vs ScotlandCounty Ground, Bristol10:30 a.m.3:00 p.m.June 23Sri Lanka vs IrelandCounty Ground, Bristol2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 24England vs West IndiesLord's, London6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 26Sri Lanka vs ScotlandOld Trafford, Manchester6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.June 27West Indies vs IrelandCounty Ground, Bristol2:30 p.m.7:00 p.m.June 27England vs New ZealandThe Oval, London6:30 p.m.11:00 p.m.Who do you think are the favourites and dark horses for the Women's T20 World Cup 2026?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.

World Cup 2026 free live stream: How to watch tournament matches without cable originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The biggest World Cup to ever take place sees 48 nations battle it out over 104 matches this summer for the biggest prize in international soccer.Co-hosts USA, Canada and Mexico will be hoping to go as far as they can at the tournament, that sees Lionel Messi's Argentina enter as the defending champions.Five-time champions Brazil, the most successful World Cup team in history, can't be overlooked with Spain, France and England also among the favorites to lift the trophy.The Sporting News is on hand to make sure you don't miss a minute of the action with this handy guide of the full schedule and how you can watch the games for free.World Cup 2026 free live streamsEvery World Cup 2026 match is available to stream for FREE on fubo. 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.)World Cup 2026 TV channel, live streamENGLISH:TV channel: Fox, FS1Streaming:fubo, Fox ONE, Fox Sports appSPANISH:TV channel: TelemundoStreaming:fubo, PeacockFOX is the main English-language FIFA broadcast partner in the United States, and will have the rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil.The broadcaster has announced that all 104 matches of the tournament will be televised throughout the competition. 69 matches from the competition will air on the main FOX network channel, while 35 others will be televised on FS1.For Spanish-language coverage, all 104 matches will stream live on Peacock, with 92 matches airing on Telemundo and 12 on Universo.All those channels, both English and Spanish, are available to stream in the United States on fubo, who are offering a FREE trial for new users.Every match will also stream live on FOX One and the FOX Sports app.World Cup 2026 TV channel guide in USAGroup A fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamThu, Jun. 113 p.m.Mexico 2-0 South AfricaFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 1110 p.m.South Korea 2-1 CzechiaFS1, fuboThu, Jun. 1812 p.m.Czechia vs. South AfricaFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 189 p.m.Mexico vs. South KoreaFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 249 p.m.Czechia vs. MexicoFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 249 p.m.South Africa vs. South KoreaFS1, fuboSTADIUM GUIDES:Estadio Azteca | Estadio Akron | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Estadio BBVAGroup B fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamFri, Jun. 123 p.m.Canada 1-1 Bosnia and HerzegovinaFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 133 p.m.Qatar 1-1 SwitzerlandFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 183 p.m.Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. SwitzerlandFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 186 p.m.Canada vs. QatarFS1, fuboWed, Jun. 243 p.m.Switzerland vs. CanadaFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 243 p.m.Bosnia and Herzegovina vs. QatarFS1, fuboSTADIUM GUIDES:BMO Field | Levi's Stadium | SoFi Stadium | BC Place | Lumen FieldGroup C fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSat, Jun. 136 p.m.Brazil 1-1 MoroccoFS1, fuboSat, Jun. 139 p.m.Haiti 0-1 ScotlandFS1, fuboFri, Jun. 196 p.m.Scotland vs. MoroccoFOX, fuboFri, Jun. 199 p.m.Brazil vs. HaitiFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 246 p.m.Scotland vs. BrazilFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 246 p.m.Morocco vs. HaitiFS1, fuboGroup D fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamFri, Jun. 129 p.m.United States 4-1 ParaguayFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 1312 a.m.Australia 2-0 TurkeyFS1, fuboFri, Jun. 193 p.m.United States vs. AustraliaFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 2012 a.m.Turkey vs. ParaguayFS1, fuboThu, Jun. 2510 p.m.Turkey vs. United StatesFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 2510 p.m.Paraguay vs. AustraliaFS1, fuboSTADIUM GUIDES:SoFi Stadium | BC Place | Levi's Stadium | Lumen FieldGroup E fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSun, Jun. 141 p.m.Germany 7-1 CuracaoFOX, fuboSun, Jun. 147 p.m.Ivory Coast 1-0 EcuadorFS1, fuboSat, Jun. 204 p.m.Germany vs. Ivory CoastFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 208 p.m.Ecuador vs. CuracaoFS1, fuboThu, Jun. 254 p.m.Ecuador vs. GermanyFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 254 p.m.Curacao vs. Ivory CoastFS1, fuboGroup F fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSun, Jun. 144 p.m.Netherlands 2-2 JapanFOX, fuboSun, Jun. 1410 p.m.Sweden 5-1 TunisiaFS1, fuboSat, Jun. 201 p.m.Netherlands vs. SwedenFOX, fuboSun, Jun. 2112 a.m.Tunisia vs. JapanFS1, fuboThu, Jun. 257 p.m.Tunisia vs. NetherlandsFOX, fuboThu, Jun. 257 p.m.Japan vs. SwedenFS1, fuboGroup G fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamMon, June 153 p.m.Belgium vs. EgyptFOX, fuboMon, June 159 p.m.Iran vs. New ZealandFS1, fuboSun, June 213 p.m.Belgium vs. IranFS1, fuboSun, June 219 p.m.New Zealand vs. EgyptFS1, fuboFri, June 2611 p.m.New Zealand vs. BelgiumFOX, fuboFri, June 2611 p.m.Egypt vs. IranFS1, fuboGroup H fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamMon, Jun. 1512 p.m.Spain vs. Cape VerdeFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 156 p.m.Saudi Arabia vs. UruguayFS1, fuboSun, Jun. 2112 p.m.Spain vs. Saudi ArabiaFOX, fuboSun, Jun. 216 p.m.Uruguay vs. Cape VerdeFS1, fuboFri, Jun. 268 p.m.Uruguay vs. SpainFOX, fuboFri, Jun. 268 p.m.Cape Verde vs. Saudi ArabiaFS1, fuboGroup I fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamTue, Jun. 163 p.m.France vs. SenegalFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 166 p.m.Iraq vs. NorwayFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 225 p.m.France vs. IraqFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 228 p.m.Norway vs. SenegalFOX, fuboFri, Jun. 263 p.m.Norway vs. FranceFOX, fuboFri, Jun. 263 p.m.Senegal vs. IraqFS1, fuboGroup J fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamTue, Jun. 169 p.m.Argentina vs. AlgeriaFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 1712 a.m.Austria vs. JordanFS1, fuboMon, Jun. 221 p.m.Argentina vs. AustriaFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 2211 p.m.Jordan vs. AlgeriaFS1, fuboSat, Jun. 2710 p.m.Jordan vs. ArgentinaFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 2710 p.m.Algeria vs. AustriaFS1, fuboGroup K fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamWed, Jun. 171 p.m.Portugal vs. DR CongoFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 1710 p.m.Uzbekistan vs. ColombiaFS1, fuboTue, Jun. 231 p.m.Portugal vs. UzbekistanFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 2310 p.m.Colombia vs. DR CongoFS1, fuboSat, Jun. 277:30 p.m.Colombia vs. PortugalFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 277:30 p.m.DR Congovs. UzbekistanFS1, fuboGroup L fixturesDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamWed, Jun. 174 p.m.England vs. CroatiaFOX, fuboWed, Jun. 177 p.m.Ghana vs. PanamaFS1, fuboTue, Jun. 234 p.m.England vs. GhanaFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 237 p.m.Panama vs. CroatiaFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 275 p.m.Panama vs. EnglandFOX, fuboSat, Jun. 275 p.m.Croatia vs. GhanaFS1, fuboWorld Cup 2026 knockout stageRound of 32DateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSun, Jun. 283 p.m.M1: 2nd, Group A vs. 2nd, Group BFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 294:30 p.m.M2: 1st, Group E vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 299 p.m.M3: 1st, Group F vs. 2nd, Group CFOX, fuboMon, Jun. 291 p.m.M4: 1st, Group C vs. 2nd, Group FFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 305 p.m.M5: 1st, Group I vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 301 p.m.M6: 2nd, Group E vs. 2nd, Group IFOX, fuboTue, Jun. 309 p.m.M7: 1st, Group A vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboWed, Jul. 112 p.m.M8: 1st, Group L vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboWed, Jul. 18 p.m.M9: 1st, Group D vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboWed, Jul. 14 p.m.M10: 1st, Group G vs. 3rd place finisherFS1, fuboThu, Jul. 27 p.m.M11: 2nd, Group K vs. 2nd, Group LFOX, fuboThu, Jul. 23 p.m.M12: 1st, Group H vs. 2nd, Group JFOX, fuboThu, Jul. 211 p.m.M13: 1st, Group B vs. 3rd place finisherFS1, fuboFri, Jul. 36 p.m.M14: 1st, Group J vs. 2nd, Group HFOX, fuboFri, Jul. 39:30 p.m.M15: 1st, Group K vs. 3rd place finisherFOX, fuboFr, Jul. 32 p.m.M16: 2nd, Group D vs. 2nd, Group GFOX, fuboRound of 16DateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSat, Jul. 41 p.m.M2: Winner, R32 M1 vs. Winner, R32 M3FOX, fuboSat, Jul. 45 p.m.M1: Winner, R32 M2 vs. Winner, R32 M5FOX, fuboSun, Jul. 54 p.m.M3: Winner, R32 M4 vs. Winner, R32 M6FOX, fuboSun, Jul. 58 p.m.M4: Winner, R32 M7 vs. Winner, R32 M8FOX, fuboMon, Jul. 63 p.m.M5: Winner, R32 M11 vs. Winner, R32 M12FOX, fuboMon, Jul. 68 p.m.M6: Winner, R32 M9 vs. Winner, R32 M10FOX, fuboTue, Jul. 712 p.m.M7: Winner, R32 M14 vs. Winner, R32 M16FOX, fuboTue, Jul. 74 p.m.M8: Winner, R32 M13 vs. Winner, R32 M15FOX, fuboQuarterfinalsDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamThu, Jul. 94 p.m.QF1: Winner, R16 M1 vs. Winner, R16 M2FOX, fuboFri, Jul. 103 p.m.QF2: Winner, R16 M5 vs. Winner, R16 M6FOX, fuboSat, Jul. 115 p.m.QF3: Winner, R16 M3 vs. Winner, R16 M4FOX, fuboSat, Jul. 119 p.m.QF4: Winner, R16 M7 vs. Winner, R16 M8FOX, fuboSemifinalsDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamTue, Jul. 143 p.m.SF1: Winner, QF1 vs. Winner, QF2FOX, fuboWed, Jul. 153 p.m.SF2: Winner, QF3 vs. Winner, QF4FOX, fuboThird-place matchDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSat, Jul. 185 p.m.Loser, SF1 vs. Loser, SF2FOX, fuboFinalDateTime (ET)MatchTV channel, live streamSun, Jul. 193 p.m.Winner, SF1 vs. Winner, SF2FOX, fuboMORE WORLD CUP NEWS:Last time the World Cup was in United StatesRevisiting the first World Cup in 1930Most World Cup wins by countryFuture World Cup locations for 2030 and beyondGuide to host countries, cities for 2026 World Cup

Arsenal striker bags goal & assist on World Cup debutViktor Gyokeres impressed for Sweden alongside Alexander Isak on Sunday night, with both players scoring in an emphatic win over Tunisia.Photo by Carl Recine/Getty ImagesAfter a disappointing World Cup qualification campaign where they were extremely fortunate to wind up with a spot in the final tournament, Sweden desperately needed to show more in their opening game of the competition proper on Sunday night.Among the reasons to be positive were their starting strike partnership of Viktor Gyokeres, in good form for Arsenal, and Alexander Isak, fit again after his injury struggles throughout 2025/26.Gyokeres (making his World Cup debut) was heavily involved as Sweden took the lead, beating the goalkeeper and seeing his shot cleared off the line, only for Yasin Ayari to impressively turn in the rebound.Photo by David Ramos/Getty ImagesGyokeres then provided an assist for Isak to score Sweden’s second, holding up the ball and playing a pass around the corner for the Liverpool man to run away and score.Tunisia pulled one back through former Gunner Omar Rekik just before half-time, but Gyokeres restored Sweden’s two-goal lead just before the hour mark.Isak pounced on a defensive error to win possession, and after a bit of a scramble the ball fell to Gyokeres, who made no mistake with his finish.The Arsenal striker had a number of other chances throughout the match, but his goal and assist were ultimately sufficient to help Sweden on the way to an important 5-1 victory.With Japan and the Netherlands drawing in the other game, Sweden have an early two-point lead at the top of their group.Gyokeres has been vital to Sweden lately, scoring four goals in two games in their World Cup qualification play-offs in March, scoring in his only pre-World Cup friendly earlier in June, and now scoring and assisting in their opening match of the actual tournament.With any luck, the striker will keep up this good form and go into his summer holidays feeling good about his 2026/27 with Arsenal.Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images

[Getty Images]Pedro Porro has signed a new long-term contract with Tottenham, having made 152 appearances since arriving in January 2023 from Sporting CP.The 26-year-old had two years remaining on the contract he signed when he joined Spurs and, while not disclosed, it is understood this new one will to run until 2031.Head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, said: "Pedro is a very important player for us, who has consistently shown his ability to influence matches in both defensive and attacking situations."As well as his technical quality, I also love his mentality. Every day he wants to work, to learn and to improve, and these are the characteristics that help players reach the highest level."He understands football in a very intelligent way, and brings energy, intensity and personality to the team."This new contract is good news for everyone at the Club. We believe in Pedro, and I am excited to continue working with him and helping him achieve even more in the coming years."Sporting Director, Johan Lange, added: "Securing Pedro's future was an important priority for us this summer."During the past three-and-half years, he has made huge progress to become one of the best full-backs in the game, and the fact he is about to play in the World Cup for Spain is testament to that."

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Between now and training camp, we will be going through the Jacksonville Jaguars' full 90-man roster, previewing each player.Up next is cornerback Montaric Brown, who wears No. 1.ProfileHeight: 6-0Weight: 190Age: 26NFL experience: 5 yearsCollege: ArkansasHow long has Montaric Brown been with the Jaguars?Brown was a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft and spent his first four seasons in Jacksonville. A free agent this offseason, Brown signed a three-year, $31.8 million deal to return to the Jaguars.Recapping Montaric Brown's 2025 seasonBrown took a big step forward last season, showcasing his abilities to start on a weekly basis and perform at a high level while doing so. He allowed a completion rate of just 54% on 68 targets and held opponents to just 10.4 yards per catch.Brown also flashed impressive ball production, coming away with two interceptions and forcing nine pass breakups.Looking ahead to 2026 for Montaric BrownFollowing last season's performance, a jumping-off point for Brown in 2026 could be the continuity of being in Anthony Campanile's scheme for a second year. Rather than learning a new system on the fly as he did last offseason, Brown can now build off what's already been established.Brown, along with Travis Hunter and Jourdan Lewis, are expected to make up the Jaguars' starting cornerback trio.Head coach Liam Coen expects another jump from Brown this season."He's always kinda played in practice with confidence," Coen said. "There's areas in which he can continue to improve, but, look, we signed him to a deal, and he comes out and is just… him. He's practiced the same way, he's approached the meetings and practices and games the same way since I've been here the whole time, so he's consistent. He's a pro. I think we'll see another step from Buster this year in terms of confidence, especially in the red zone."Campanile is very bullish about what's ahead for Brown as well.This article originally appeared on Jaguars Wire: Jaguars training camp player preview: CB Montaric Brown

‘Fantastic’ – Roy Keane praises Liverpool colossus for ‘brilliant’ moment in World Cup clashRoy Keane was full of praise for one Liverpool player after a ‘brilliant’ moment during his country’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup.Virgil van Dijk was among three Reds players who started for Netherlands in their 2-2 draw against Japan, along with Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch, and he opened the scoring in Dallas with a superb header from the latter’s diagonal cross.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYUnfortunately for the Oranje, they would twice relinquish a lead on the day to end up having to settle for a point, but the ex-Manchester United captain lauded the 34-year-old over his goal.Keane lauds ‘fantastic’ goal from Van DijkSpeaking on punditry duty for ITV Sport (via Liverpool.com), Keane said: “We saw Japan dropping deeper and deeper, and once it goes in it’s an absolutely fantastic header from Van Dijk.“He’s such a goal threat, brilliant finish. Going in off the post, brilliant. The way he guided it, there’s no pace in it, but fantastic header. Poor defending, Japan are dropping deeper, but it’s beautiful. He’s seen it all the way – lovely, lovely finish and they were in total control at this stage.”Want more Empire of the Kop coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustVan Dijk comes up trumps for Netherlands once againIt was a masterful finish indeed from Van Dijk, who subtly made space to evade the close attention of Tsuyoshi Watanabe before guiding his header past Zion Suzuki and into the Japanese net.It was the 34-year-old’s 13th goal for his country, on top of the 36 that he’s plundered for Liverpool, a very impressive return for a centre-back.The Liverpool defender came in for criticism from ex-Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart over his performance against Japan, being accused of turning ‘like a Boeing 747′ (GOAL), but there’s no denying that he often comes up trumps for his club and national team when they need him.While it was another subdued outing for Gakpo in attack, Van Dijk once again showed his potent tendencies to break the deadlock in a game which had been going nowhere up to that point, before then sparking into life during the second half.If the Oranje are to fulfil pre-tournament expectations of going deep into the World Cup, they may need a couple of more clutch moments like that from their inspirational captai.

Markus Krösche reportedly reaches agreement to join AC MilanOn Saturday news leaked that AC Milan were interested in signing Markus Krösche, and now things could move quickly.According to transfer insider Matteo Moretto, the Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director has reached an agreement with Milan. Furthermore, Krösche is reportedly set to take on the role of Head of Football alongside his colleague Timmo Hardung. The Rossoneri now need to agree on a transfer fee with Eintracht Frankfurt, as Krösche's release clause isn't active again until 2027.A major overhaul is taking place in Milan this summer with several confirmed dismissals, while Rúben Amorim will be the new coach.

🎥 Fresh for the World Cup, Lamine Yamal's new look 💈The day has arrived. Spain makes its debut today against Cape Verde and begins its journey in the World Cup. Everything has to be ready, and Lamine knows it. That’s why he has taken a key step: stopping by the barber.Lamine Yamal already has his new haircut ready for this World Cup. A style that recalls the one he wore at EURO 2024.Will it bring the same result?This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Saracens' Olivia Apps scored two tries against Exeter [Getty Images]Exeter assistant coach Oli Bishop says his side's run to the semi-finals of Premiership Women's Rugby is a foundation for more success.The Chiefs were beaten 40-38 by Saracens on Sunday as they returned to the play-offs for the first time in two years.Exeter battled back from 28-12 down to lead 31-28 at half time, but Saracens forced their way into the final thanks to Jess Breach's late try. "What we've seen this season is we've started trying to play a new brand of rugby," attack and backs coach Bishop told BBC Radio Devon."We've looked at changing the way that we do stuff and what we've done this year is just build."We've looked at progressing, understand what we're trying to do, improve our fundamentals and improve our decision making."I think with another pre-season and then going into next year we've got to be confident."Trailfinders stun Gloucester-Hartpury to reach PWR finalBut Bishop admitted that he was "gutted" Exeter could not make the final - having looked as though they could emulate the men's side who beat Bath in their Prem semi-final last week.But having twice lost to Saracens in the league - including a 39-5 humbling when they last visited their opponents in September - Bishop was quick to recognise how far his side has progressed."I think the girls left it all out there on the pitch today," he added."I think when we look at the two games that we've had this year against Sarries, it shows how much we've come on this year."They were in great form and I think we had opportunities today to walk away with it and it was down to the last bits of the game."I'm so proud of the girls today for the effort we put in."I think we showed our attack, we showed our heart in defence and we showed that we can mix with anyone."

Ukraine is running out of American-made Patriot air-defense interceptors, and is pleading for more.

It’s is hard to know where to start and where to end when talking about the Misfitsboxing circus on Saturday night in Manchester. There is an image of little Tommy Fury avoiding the lunges of Eddie Hall, with his 80 inch chest, and of Big Stacks, the “Hardest Man in Britain”, turning away after four rounds of body sparring, or perhaps the moment when the rapper, Jordan McCann, got hit for the first time and also turned away in utter confusion. Take your pick.It was crude, ugly, shameful in parts, but addictive in all sorts of ways. A crowd of nearly 20,000 left throwing wild punches, laughing and vowing to return. Misfits, the business, knows its audience. Eddie Hall lost to Tommy Fury by decision in a Misfits exhibition bout (PA)Fury’s real boxing experience was more than enough to beat Hall; it was rudimentary, but it was enough. The Stacks and McCann fights were ridiculous – it has to be said. It is not a criticism, just a fact: all four of the men in involved would have struggled to win a fight at the Haringey Box Cup, which took place over the same weekend. Big Stacks is also known as Charlie Roberts and is perhaps best known as the self-proclaimed “Hardest Man in Britain”. Now, that is a serious title and Stacks, thankfully, has a sense of humour; I hope he does. His fight with Armz Korleone – the best name of the weekend – was nearly called off when McCann slapped Stacks at the press conference. The slap caused a cut, there were stitches, the doctors said “no fight”, a deal was done for the pair to hit each other to the body. It was dismal; Stacks, who claimed he was out all night, saved himself in the fourth. The rematch is coming soon.McCann was fighting the viral sensation, Ibiza Final Boss (his real name is Jack Kay); you will know him as the man with the odd haircut, dancing to music at clubs in Ibiza. Honest, that’s his fame; McCann threatened violence all week and then was hit after a few seconds and his body stiffened; he was, for a moment, out on his feet. He showed guts to stick with it; he found out that rapping about fighting and fighting are two very different vehicles. At the end of a thousand swings and four rounds, the man with the pudding-bowl haircut and immaculate teeth got the nod. The crowd loved it. Ibiza Final Boss gets cracked by a punch from Jordan McCann (Getty)In another fight, a boxer called Anthony Taylor dropped to his knees in frustration, claiming a substance had been rubbed into his eyes. It was dramatic and then he raced at his opponent and tried to rugby tackle about ten men. It was not the first and it will not be the last chaotic end to a Misfits fight. The crowd came for the skirmishes and they know that Taylor, a serial offender, often delivers a bit of anarchy. When Misfits started in 2022, with KSI as one of the founding members, it had a fresh quality, an innocence in some ways. It was not a threat to the real boxing business. The thinking at the time was that traditional boxing could learn from the influencers, learn about having a social media presence, learn about marketing. That was a convenient theory. On Saturday, Misfits pushed right up to the thin crossover line between boxing and the glory days of wrestling. It’s not a threat to boxing, but the carnival on Saturday was not very dignified. They might not be very good at boxing but they are still judged as boxers and so is the event. Great business, not a great image for the sport.

Wolfsburg to part ways with €9m for Hertha BSC talisman Fabian ReeseAfter a three-year long partnership together, Hertha BSC and Fabian Reese are parting ways this summer According to information from Sky, the capital club has now also reached a complete agreement with VfL Wolfsburg.Hertha Berlin are expected to receive a transfer fee in the region of €8 to 9million for the 28-year-old versatile attacker.As the pay-TV channel explains, Reese will also undergo the mandatory medical examination shortly at the Lower Saxony club.If he passes, the prolific winger is expected to help Wolfsburg return to the Bundesliga next season after their shock relegation.

Emeline, Norbert and Savannah said they would be watching England's match against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday [BBC]England fans heading to the World Cup have said they cannot wait to watch the football. Waiting for a flight at Gatwick Airport to the US, Andrew and Kelly and their 10-year-old son Christian told the BBC they thought the Three Lions would do "really well". "I hope they bring it home," said Christian. The family, from Stockport, will spend a week in Las Vegas and then watch the England-Ghana game in Boston on 23 June. "It's going to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, especially as I am bringing my son with me," said Andrew. "It does not matter how much the cost is as long as we enjoy it." 'Sixty years of hurting'Emeline, from Corby, said she was "over the moon" to be heading to the World Cup with her family. Matches are being played in the US, Mexico and Canada."It's been on my bucket list for the last 30 years to watch an England game," she said. "I am very happy we get to enjoy this as a family," added her husband Norbert. More World Cup stories The man who paid £4 to watch England win the World Cup'My dad helped England win the World Cup'Find your local World Cup hero with our postcode lookup Also speaking to BBC Radio Sussex at Gatwick Airport, the trio said they would be watching England's match against Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday. "I think England have a really strong squad this year," said Emeline. "But I have been saying that for years.""It has been 60 years of hurting," she added. Andrew, Kelly and Christian will spend a week in Las Vegas before watching the England-Ghana game in Boston [BBC]However, Emeline's daughter Savannah said she was most excited about the food. "America has so many things I have wanted to try since I was little," she said. "I have been dying to go to Target since I was eight."George Dolce, a US citizen who studies in the UK, said he had just returned from watching a match in his home country. "It was amazing," he told BBC Radio Sussex. "The crowd was electric."It was like nothing I have ever seen." Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, X, and Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Sussex on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. More on this story Can pubs stay open late for World Cup matches?

Alex Callender's role as Wales captain went to fellow flanker Kate Williams during the 2026 Women's Six Nations [Huw Evans Picture Agency]Wales have been boosted by the return from injury of highly-regarded back-row Alex Callender for their uncapped encounter against Barbarians at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on Saturday, 27 June.The 25-year-old missed Wales' Women's Six Nations campaign because of injury, but is set to return for a fixture that follows a men's international against the Barbarians in a double-header at the home of English rugby.Head coach Sean Lynn's 33-strong training squad includes 14 uncapped players, while 24 members of the squad play for Wales-based teams Brython Thunder or Gwalia Lightning.Lynn has his eye on the future after Wales suffered a winless Six Nations, and emphasised that focus."It's a real opportunity to continue to build our playing philosophy and to have a look at the exciting young talent now coming through our pathway and through the Celtic Challenge teams, Wales U21s and Wales U18s," said Lynn."All the players have been told there is a real opportunity to play against an experienced Barbarians side and not to assume that they will or will not play."The door is open for selection, and this is a good opportunity for our younger players to taste what is expected at international level."Kelsey Jones, Bethan Lewis, Sian Jones, Lleucu George, Hannah Dallavalle, Nel Metcalfe, Sisilia Tuipulotu, Jorja Aiono and Alaw Pyrs were all involved with Gloucester-Hartpury in Sunday's Premiership Women's Rugby semi-final defeat by Ealing Trailfinders.They have not been named in Wales' initial squad and will be assessed on Thursday.Saracens duo Georgia Evans and Donna Rose, and Trailfinders back Carys Cox, will be involved in the PWR final on the same weekend as the Barbarians game so will not be involved for Wales.Wales squad v BarbariansBacks: Keira Bevan, Seren Lockwood, Lily Hawkins, Kayleigh Powell, Hanna Marshall, Courtney Keight, Freya Bell, Kelsie Webster, Jenna De Vera, Hanna Tudor, Nikita Prothero, Jasmine Joyce, Amy WilliamsForwards: Gwenllian Pyrs, Maisie Davies, Kath Baverstock, Crystal James, Shanelle Williams, Molly Reardon, Molly Wakely, Kendall Waudby, Elan Jones, Stella Orrin, Jenni Scoble, Tilly Vucaj, Natalia John, Branwen Metcalfe, Chiara Pearce, Alex Callender, Bryonie King, Lucy Isaac, Alisha Joyce, Anwen Owen

A recent interview has emerged over the weekend of Aldon Smith, a former NFL defensive end up Aldon Smith died suddenly on Saturday.A fairly short clip has been posted in several spots. It's worth watching the whole interview.Here's part one. Part two. And part three. In all, it's less than 30 minutes.The interview was posted last week by Tee Maultsby, a barber who has filmed a series of videos of athletes getting haircuts. Smith provides a raw and authentic look at his life after football, which included door-to-door sales in the Texas heat while he was "broke" and wearing an ankle monitor.A friend found Smith slumped an unresponsive in the friend's truck, after they had delivered pizzas to a homeless shelter.Smith makes it clear from the start that he's struggling. Maultsby does a very good job of giving Smith space to talk through it.No cause of death has been identified for Smith, who was only 36. He was a dominant player early for the 49ers in his career. Off-field issues derailed his career. He persisted, returning to the NFL with the Cowboys, nine years after he was drafted. He started all 16 games in his final season.

Nature, Published online: 15 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01885-yTechnology has led to unprecedented innovation, but common household items can help make research more reproducible — and accessible.

Nature, Published online: 15 June 2026; doi:10.1038/d41586-026-01889-8An economist sets out how communities can direct economic decisions and not just endure their consequences.

The United States and Iran have a deal that could lead to the end of their monthslong war.

Schalke intend to turn Kevin Müller loan into permanent switchKevin Müller is fully expected remain with FC Schalke 04 ahead of their return to the Bundesliga, or so Kicker.de reports:“On paper, the extension of Kevin Müller's contract has not yet been confirmed, but this is said to be a mere formality.”The 35-year-old was on loan to the Royal Blues from 1.FC Heidenheim in the second half of last season and made good impression.A permanent signing for the experienced shot-stopper is expected to be finalized by the Gelsenkirchen side in the coming weeks.Given his contract runs until 2027 and Müller's standing after eleven years at Heidenheim, no difficult negotiations over a fee are anticipated.During his loan stint with the newly promoted club, Müller featured on four occasions and managed to keep one clean sheet.

🤔 Weekly quiz tests the big Copa stories so far; can you get 10/10?Monday kicks off in World Cup style with the Quiz of the Week!The tournament started with lots of goals, a few surprises, and great moments. But did you catch everything?Take the Quiz of the Week here!Write in the comments if you got a 10/10.And also tell us whether you thought it was easy or if it was really hard.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Liverpool and PSG on alert as Yan Diomande’s World Cup debut spotlights Europe’s next superstarThe name of Yan Diomande is one that is set to dominate the gossip columns this summer. For the more casual fan, or non-Bundesliga viewers, the World Cup represents a first chance to watch the much talked-up talent live.Ivory Coast's opener against Ecuador was a far better game than a late 1-0 win suggests. There were chances aplenty for both teams, with Diomande rarely far from the Ivorian's best moments.A man-of-the-match performance in Philadelphia showcased just whyLiverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are among the teams desperately trying to lure the teenager from Leipzig.Diomande was the Bundesliga's breakout star in 2025/26. Signed from a Leganes side relegated to Spain's Segunda Division, expectations were modest. Instead, an electric campaign has turned the 19-year-old into one of the most coveted talents in Europe.He scored 12 league goals and added eight assists, while no winger made more progressive carries in the Bundesliga last season. He had the best dribble success rate of any U-20 winger in Europe, surpassing Lamine Yamal, and ranked third for key passes and duels won.Against Ecuador, it was all on show.Repeatedly, he left Piero Hincapie in his wake. The Ecuadorian won thePremier League with Arsenal last season and reached a Champions League final, but could do little to deal with Diomande's explosiveness.According toOpta, Hincapie was dribbled past only 19 times in 39 appearances for Arsenal last season. Here, Ivory Coast's cast of dribblers went past him on four occasions.Having started on the right, Diomande switched over to the opposite flank, where a period tormenting Alan Franco saw the full-back mercifully substituted.Diomande ended the game clutching the man-of-the-match award. He led for touches (80), chances created (5), duels won (11), progressive carries (15) and passes in the final third (22).Leipzig are understood to value the teenager at around €100m (£86.4m), in what would represent a record sale.For a talent with only one season of regular top-league football, it's a fee that represents risk. More displays of this calibre, however, and there will be a clutch of clubs willing to pay it.

Czech Republic vs South Africa Prediction: World Cup 2026 Preview & Best BetsBoth sides arrive at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with their World Cup 2026 campaigns on the line — Czech Republic needing a response after their opening defeat, South Africa desperate to avoid a repeat of 2010’s heartbreak on home soil…Czech Republic vs South Africa kicks off at 17:00 UK time on Thursday 18th June 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Both sides lost their Group A openers and face early elimination if they slip up here. Live coverage in the UK is on BBC and iPlayer. POPULARBest World Cup 2026 Welcome Bonus 10 EXCEPTIONAL ParimatchParimatchSports Welcome Offer Bet and Get for a £20 Free Bet BET NOWWhat’s At StakeWith Mexico and South Korea both sitting on three points after Matchday 7, the loser of this fixture is all but eliminated from Group A before their final group game. Czech Republic, who fell 2-1 to South Korea, and South Africa, beaten 2-0 by Mexico, meet knowing that only a win keeps realistic qualification hopes alive. A draw leaves both sides needing a miracle in their final games, so expect nothing short of a full-blooded contest in Atlanta.VerdictCzech Republic to win is the call here, with the best available price sitting at 4/5 representing solid if modest value for a side boasting a considerably stronger player pool. The Czechs carry real quality through Patrik Schick and Tomas Soucek, and while South Africa showed resilience in qualifying, they have yet to score at this tournament and face a step up in class.Czech Republic vs South Africa Match PreviewCzech Republic come into this contest knowing their World Cup 2026 adventure could end almost before it began. Manager I. Hasek’s side were competitive against South Korea, scoring through Ladislav Krejci, but conceding twice underlined some defensive frailties they will need to address. The Czechs know how to respond under pressure — they qualified via back-to-back penalty shoot-outs — so expect a more disciplined and purposeful performance here.South Africa are back on the global stage for the first time since 2010, when they famously hosted the tournament. That 2010 campaign ended in the group stage, making them the first host nation to be eliminated at that point. Now, 16 years on, M. Ntseki’s side must find a goal for the first time at these finals to stand any chance of making history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time ever.The key battleground is likely to be the midfield, where Czech Republic’s experience through Tomas Soucek (90 caps, 17 international goals) should give them a significant edge over a South Africa unit that is solid but limited creatively. If the Czechs can control possession and funnel balls to Schick early, they have more than enough to secure the three points their tournament survival demands.Team FormCzech Republic Last 5– South Korea (A): Lost 1-2 (World Cup 2026) – Guatemala (N): Won 5-1 (Friendly) – Kosovo (H): Won 2-1 (Friendly) – Denmark (H): Drew 2-2 (World Cup Qualification) – Republic Of Ireland (H): Drew 2-2 (World Cup Qualification)The Czechs showed real attacking threat before the tournament, putting five past Guatemala, but the South Korea loss confirmed that top-tier opposition will test their backline. Their qualifying campaign — 5W 3D 2L across 10 games, including a 6-0 win over Gibraltar — demonstrated their ability to grind results out. Critically, they have found the net regularly, with Patrik Schick, Pavel Sulc, and Tomas Soucek all contributing goals in the buildup to these finals.South Africa Last 5– Mexico (A): Lost 0-2 (World Cup 2026) – Jamaica (N): Won 1-0 (Friendly) – Nicaragua (H): Drew 0-0 (Friendly) – Panama (H): Lost 1-2 (Friendly) – Panama (H): Drew 1-1 (Friendly)South Africa’s recent form makes for difficult reading ahead of a must-win match. A narrow 1-0 friendly win over Jamaica is their sole victory in five outings, and they are yet to score in competitive play at World Cup 2026. Their CAF qualifying record of 3W 2D 1L from six games showed defensive resilience and capacity to score, but the step up to this level — first Mexico, now Czech Republic — has exposed real limitations in attacking output.Czech Republic vs South Africa Best Bets POPULARBest World Cup 2026 Welcome Bonus 10 EXCEPTIONAL BetfredBetfredBet and Get New Bettor Bonus of £50 in Free Bets BET NOW 9.9 EXCEPTIONAL HighbetHighbetBet £10 and Get a £20 Free bet BET NOW 9.8 EXCEPTIONAL ParimatchParimatchSports Welcome Offer Bet and Get for a £20 Free Bet BET NOWMain Pick: Czech Republic To WinCzech Republic to Win @ 4/5. The Czechs have more quality across every line and the added motivation of knowing a defeat ends their tournament. Schick, Soucek, and Sulc provide genuine threat in the final third, while South Africa have failed to score in their opening game and are yet to look convincing against top-half European opposition. This feels like a game Czech Republic win without needing to hit top gear.Goals Market: Under 2.5 GoalsUnder 2.5 Goals @ 4/5. Both sides come into this fixture with defensive fragility but limited attacking inspiration, particularly South Africa who failed to score against Mexico. Czech Republic’s qualifying campaign averaged just over two goals per game combined, and under the pressure of a must-win group stage scenario, high-scoring encounters are less common than nervy, low-scoring affairs. The price of 4/5 for under 2.5 represents a reasonable proposition.Scorer Market: Patrik Schick Anytime ScorerPatrik Schick Anytime Scorer. With 26 international goals in 53 caps for Czech Republic, Schick is comfortably the most dangerous finisher on the pitch. He needs no invitation inside the penalty area and has consistently delivered in high-pressure moments throughout his career at Bayer Leverkusen and at international level. With the Czechs likely to commit numbers forward in search of a vital win, Schick will be central to everything in the final third.Odds Across OperatorsHere are the best available prices for Czech Republic vs South Africa across leading operators.Czech Republic vs South Africa Head To HeadThese two nations have met only once in recorded history, a 2-2 draw in the 1997 Confederations Cup, making this essentially a fresh matchup with no meaningful head-to-head narrative to draw on. That single meeting, played nearly three decades ago, tells us very little about what to expect on 18th June in Atlanta. What is more instructive is where each side sits in the broader hierarchy of international football — Czech Republic as a European side with a rich historical pedigree, South Africa as an emerging African nation seeking their first knockout-stage appearance at a World Cup.Team NewsCzech Republic head into this fixture with a fully fit squad, with no confirmed injury or suspension concerns following their opening loss to South Korea. Patrik Schick leads the attack and is expected to start, with Tomas Soucek anchoring the midfield as captain. The squad is heavily drawn from domestic clubs, with Slavia Prague providing the backbone of the group alongside key European-based players such as Soucek (West Ham United) and Ladislav Krejci (Wolverhampton Wanderers).South Africa carry no confirmed suspensions into this game, though manager M. Ntseki will be assessing his options carefully after a goalless opening display against Mexico. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams (62 caps) is expected to continue between the posts, while the attacking question marks remain around whether Lyle Foster or Evidence Makgopa leads the line. Oswin Appollis offers pace and directness from wide positions and could be a key outlet if South Africa are to find a breakthrough.Czech Republic vs South Africa Predicted LineupsCzech Republic (4-2-3-1): Stanek; Coufal, Zima, Krejci (c), Jurasek; Soucek, Sadílek; Sulc, Provod, Hlozek; Schick.South Africa (4-1-4-1): Williams; Mudau, Sibisi, Okon, Modiba; Mokoena; Appollis, Zwane, Mbatha, Mofokeng; Foster.Predicted lineups based on available squad information — confirmed selections to follow closer to kick-off.Key Tactical MatchupThe contest between Tomas Soucek and Teboho Mokoena in the centre of the park is likely to define this game. Soucek brings 90 international caps and 17 goals for Czech Republic, offering a physical and box-to-box presence that South Africa will struggle to contain. Mokoena (51 caps, 9 international goals) is South Africa’s most creative central midfielder and their engine in possession. If Soucek can dominate the midfield battle and limit Mokoena’s influence, Czech Republic should control the tempo and create the openings their superior forward line needs to settle the contest.How To Watch And How To BetHow To WatchCzech Republic vs South Africa kicks off at 17:00 UK time on Thursday 18th June 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The match is available live and free-to-air in the UK on BBC and BBC iPlayer. Coverage will begin ahead of the 17:00 kick-off, with full match analysis available on both television and via the iPlayer streaming service.How To BetNew to betting on World Cup 2026? Here is a quick guide to placing your bets on Czech Republic vs South Africa.Open an account with a licensed and regulated operator if you do not already have one.Navigate to the football or soccer section of the sportsbook.Select World Cup 2026 from the competition list.Find Czech Republic vs South Africa in the Group A fixtures.Choose your market — match result, goals, scorer, or a bet builder combining several selections.Enter your stake and review the potential return before confirming.Consider an accumulator by combining this selection with other World Cup Group A games for a higher potential return.Only bet what you can afford to lose — set a deposit limit before placing any wager.Responsible GamblingBetting should always be a form of entertainment, never a way to make money. If you feel your gambling is becoming a problem, free and confidential support is available around the clock. Contact BeGambleAware or call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. Set deposit limits, take time out, or self-exclude at any time via your operator’s responsible gambling tools. [morestories category=8]

The 2026 season hasn't even started yet, but that doesn't mean we can't start looking at the 2027 NFL draft.The San Francisco 49ers (currently) have all three of their own first-round picks in 2027. But, knowing how a team that is in potential contention window fares, that could change over the coming weeks and months if the 49ers see this roster as true Super Bowl contenders. Pro Football Network's Ian Cummings mocked out the first three rounds of the draft and landed on a three very different positional needs for San Francisco, based on how their roster currently looks: center, edge rusher and receiver.Here's how the mock draft went for the 49ers:Round 1, Pick No. 26: C Kade Pieper, IowaPieper’s 2025 production is an encouraging precursor for a move to center that will test him in new and different ways. Even with acclimation necessary, Pieper’s raw tools are easy to bank on. At 6’4″, 290 pounds, Pieper is a compact, streamlined blocker with extraordinary athleticism. Per Feldman’s Freaks List, he’s rumored to have a legendary 10-yard split of 1.52, a vertical jump of 37.4″, and a short-shuttle of 4.13, all of which would rank in the 100th percentile among centers all-time.He needs to continue adding mass and improving his grip and core strength, but for zone-heavy schemes such as Kyle Shanahan’s in San Francisco, Pieper has high-level starter upside, and can be a game changer at the fulcrum when Jake Brendel inevitably moves on.Round 2, Pick No. 58: EDGE Anthony Smith, MinnesotaAt 6’6″, 285 pounds, Anthony Smith has a unique blend of size, length, lean mass, and flexibility, and while he’s not the most dynamic pass-rusher, he’s a ready-made power producer with respectable run defense utility.Round 3, Pick No. 90: WR Ryan WingoAt 6’2″, 211 pounds, with hyper-elite speed and explosion, Ryan Wingo has the athletic profile the 49ers look for along with dynamic RAC and building blocks as a separator.The big assumption here is that the 49ers won't extend center Jake Brendel before free agency starts and won't sign anyone to the position heading into draft season. Those are two big "ifs," considering how important the offensive line is to the 49ers and how star left tackle Trent Williams is nearing the end of his career. So, if this scenario unfolds, taking a center this early would make sense. Whether or not the answer is Pieper is something we won't know until we see how the 2026 college season goes.As for Smith and Wingo, the 49ers can never have too many edge rushers and receivers. Smith would be a dynamic second-round pick after he left the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks for Minnesota in 2025. He's an experienced player, too, after he elected to return in 2026 following a 39-game career with the Gophers.Wingo, meanwhile, will be playing for one of the better offenses in college football with the projected No. 1 overall pick in Arch Manning under center. Wingo had a solid 2025 season, too, with 834 yards and seven touchdowns on 54 receptions. He would build on a solid core of pass-catchers alongside Mike Evans, Ricky Pearsall and De'Zhaun Stribling, assuming Christian Kirk doesn't also return.This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers grab 3 potential needs in new 3-round 2027 mock draft

President Trump said Iran had promised to suspend enriching uranium, but it is unclear for how long.