KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 19: Cody Rhodes enters the ring at T-Mobile Center on June 19, 2026 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Rich Wade/WWE via Getty Images)WWE via Getty ImagesThe card is set for WWE Night of Champions in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on June 27. After an especially epic episode of SmackDown from Kansas City, Missouri, on Friday, we know every match that will happen in Riyadh. Let's talk wrestling.Key Facts at a GlanceEvent: WWE Night of Champions 2026 (12th edition)Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026Location: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaStart Time: 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PTU.S. Stream: ESPN streaming serviceInternational: Netflix (most markets)Main Hook: King and Queen of the Ring finals plus an Undisputed WWE Championship triple threatWhat Is The Full WWE Night Of Champions 2026 Card?We saw a Triple Threat match for the WWE championship added in the first segment of SmackDown.Undisputed WWE Championship (Triple Threat):Cody Rhodes (c) vs. GUNTHER vs. Sami ZaynKing of the Ring Final:Oba Femi vs. Jey UsoQueen of the Ring Final:IYO SKY vs. Liv MorganUnited States Championship:Trick Williams (c) vs. Ricky SaintsWomen's United States Championship:Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Jade CargillSteel Cage Match:Seth Rollins vs. Bron BreakkerThat makes six matches spanning both brands, with the two tournament finals carrying the heaviest long-term stakes. WWE assembled the lineup almost entirely through tournament progress and television angles over the past few weeks.What's At Stake In The King And Queen Of The Ring Finals?A trip to SummerSlam in Minnesota and a title shot is on the line for the winners. Jey Uso will automatically pick Cody Rhodes, or whomever holds the blue brand's title after NOC. Oba Femi will almost certainly choose Roman Reigns.On the women's side, Liv Morgan is already the Women's World Champion, so she'll go after WWE Women's Champion Rhea Ripley, if she's healthy. IYO will likely look to run it back against Liv for her title if she wins at NOC.Both finals reward the winner with a world title shot at SummerSlam, which makes them the most consequential matches on the card. Oba Femi's rapid main-roster ascent has positioned him as a potential first-time world champion, while Jey Uso carries heavy Bloodline storyline weight into the final.Which Championships Are On The Line In Riyadh?It's not old school NOC with every title in the company on the line, but there is a good amount of gold up for grabs.The Undisputed WWE Championship headlines after Sami Zayn's actions turned the Cody Rhodes–GUNTHER Clash in Italy rematch into a three-way for Riyadh. Trick Williams defends the United States Championship against Ricky Saints, who earned the shot by winning a No. 1 contender's match on SmackDown. Tiffany Stratton also defends the Women's United States Championship against Jade Cargill, the first time that title is defended on a premium live event.How Can You Watch WWE Night Of Champions 2026?ESPN is the way to watch in the United States. In fact, the promotion is packing the first hour with marquee matches again for this premium live event.Internationally, the show streams on Netflix in most markets, with SuperSport carrying it in Sub-Saharan Africa and Abema in Japan. It starts at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT from Kingdom Arena, an early bell that North American fans will need to plan around. For the full date, time and location details, the event is set for Saturday, June 27.This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Jun 16, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II (23) bats against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images | Brett Davis-Imagn Images Atlanta Braves skipper Walt Weiss provided a cautiously optimistic update on Michael Harris II on Friday. Weiss told reporters that Harris is feeling better and continuing to receive treatment for the back injury that sidelined him earlier this week.Michael Harris II will continue to get treatment and could be available off the bench tonight. #Braves have not ruled out an IL stint if there's no improvement in the short-term.— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) June 19, 2026However, Weiss also acknowledged that an injured list stint remains a possibility if Harris does not show enough improvement over the next few days. While Harris was available off the bench Friday, the Braves did not need to call on him as they secured the win.For now, both Harris and the Braves are hoping continued treatment will allow him to avoid the injured list and return to the lineup soon.More Braves News:The Braves opened the series on a high note and defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 3-2.Despite the rainy night across the farm, Alex Lodise logged a home run for the Augusta GreenJackets. More in the minor league recap.MLB News:The Arizona Diamondbacks placed right-hander Ryne Nelson on the 15-day injured list with a strained right elbow. The move is retroactive to June 16.Detroit Tigers righty Justin Verlander has been diagnosed with a hamstring strain after a bullpen session. He will miss several weeks. Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals was left out of the lineup Friday due to a Grade 1 MCL sprain. From the Feed:Cast your vote for Braves Player of the Game here!

May 9, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Chicago Sky forward Rickea Jackson (5) drives to the basket during warm ups before the Sky play against the Portland Fire at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images ©Jaime Valdez-Imagn ImagesDespite adding enough threats this offseason, the Chicago Sky are currently sitting on a disappointing 4-10 record. And it wouldn’t be wrong to point to Rickea Jackson’s injury as the singular moment that changed the trajectory of their entire 2026 campaign.The newly acquired forward, who was in the middle of what was shaping up to be a breakout season, suffered a season-ending ACL injury in her left knee during her fourth game this season. But while she remains ruled out for the remainder of the season, there is at least some encouraging news, as revealed by the Chicago Sky.The franchise sent a PR email to the reporters mentioning that Jackson had undergone a successful surgery on Friday. They have not revealed any other muscle tear, which reduces the complication in recovery for the third-year WNBA player.Jackson had been delivering exactly the kind of impact the Sky had hoped for when they brought her in. Across her first three full games of the 2026 season, she was averaging 22.0 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. Even in the very game where she sustained the injury, she had already contributed six points in just 11 minutes of action.Despite being ruled out of the season, Jackson managed to be in the top-40 names as the 2026 WNBA All-Star voting phase 1 returns were revealed. She received 39,198 votes in the frontcourt, about 3000 more than her teammate, Kamilla Cardoso.Simply put, her presence was a significant factor in the Sky’s promising 3-1 start to the season. And so it is no coincidence that since her injury, Chicago has managed just a single win across their next ten games.ACL tears are quite notorious and can take over nine months to repair, effectively ending Jackson’s breakout year with the Sky. She found herself in a bigger role in her second-year with the LA Sparks last season when 2024 second overall pick, Cameron Brink, was out due to injury.The injury itself occurred on May 17th, during the Chicago Sky’s fourth game of the season against the Minnesota Lynx. With 5:24 remaining before halftime, Rickea Jackson was attacking the paint in transition, guarded closely by Lynx defender Nia Coffey. As she bumped Coffey with her shoulder to create separation for her shot, her very next step saw her plant her left leg awkwardly. That caused her left knee to buckle and collapse completely under the weight of her body.For Rickea Jackson personally, it is a breakout year tragically cut short by injury. And for the Chicago Sky, the loss is a significant blow to their roster depth. And it is even more compounded by other subsequent and existing injuries.The goal and hope now, for the franchise, is to find its footing and start stringing wins together. And for Jackson, the path forward is clear: begin rehabilitation, work diligently toward a full recovery, and aim to return next season ready to pick up exactly where she left things off. Meanwhile, her team is already standing strong with her.“We’re just surrounding her with love and comfort and letting her know we’re here for her in any way possible,” head coach Tyler Marsh said after the injury was first confirmed. “We’re not going anywhere. She’s not going anywhere. We’re here for the long haul with Rickea.”They showed that publicly in the Sky’s home opener game, where Rickea Jackson herself made an emotional appearance shortly after her diagnosis. Her teammates visibly supported her by wearing her #5 jersey during pre-game warmups. It was a great gesture. But beyond that, Rickea Jackson has not made any public comment about the injury yet. For now, all she needs to do is rest up and recover.Trending ArticlesUSGA Accused of Bias as Joaquin Niemann Receives 2-Stroke Penalty at U.S. OpenWyndham Clark & Co. Warned by Rule Official at U.S. Open as Pace of Play Becomes an IssueThe post Chicago Sky Releases Statement After Rickea Jackson Underwent Surgery for Her ACL Injury appeared first on EssentiallySports. Add EssentiallySports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Jan Paul van Hecke has spoken out for the first time since joining Tottenham from Brighton in a £52m transfer.Van Hecke will move to Tottenham after manager Roberto De Zerbi took charge and steered the club to Premier League safety on the final day of the season.De Zerbi previously worked with Van Hecke at Brighton and made the 26-year-old, who had 12 months left on his Brighton contract after a six-year stint on the south coast, a high priority. The Netherlands international is currently at the World Cup, where the Dutch take on Sweden in Houston on Saturday.Asked about the days leading up to the transfer, Van Hecke said “A lot of calls, and of course I’ve not been involved the whole time in this subject. It’s important for me, and the head coach [Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman] gave me the time on this transfer. I’m grateful for this because this is a great step forwards in my professional career. “I am proud to have played for Brighton, it boosted my confidence, but now I will play for one of the most important clubs in England. It’s important for my future. but now I’m focused on the World Cup here.”Jan Paul van Hecke in action against Japan (Reuters)Dutch club NAC Breda stand to earn around £3.5m from the transfer after agreeing a sell-on clause when selling Van Hecke to Brighton in 2020. His youth club, VV Goes, also stand to earn from the move.“It’s great for these two teams where I played. I had youth training in the province of Zeeland [with VV Goes], I played there six years. it was great. Goes will earn money thanks to this transfer. These clubs will be happy with this transfer and they deserve that.”Van Hecke’s uncle is Jan Poortvliet, who played for the Netherlands in the 1978 World Cup final. “I think De Zerbi played a big role in the decision,” Poortvliet, who is now manager of second-tier FC Eindhoven, told Dutch outlet sportnieuws. “Several clubs were interested but De Zerbi was clear and absolutely wanted him. Jan Paul would have been at the top of the list. He knows De Zerbi’s playing style well and had a fantastic season under him.”Spurs have also signed Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson and Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi on free transfers.

Paraguay's Miguel Almirón has become the first ever player to be sent off at the World Cup for covering his mouth in a confrontation.Almirón got his marching orders from referee Iván Barton of El Salvador in first half stoppage time after a video review showed that he had violated new rules while exchanging words with Turkey player Mert Müldür following a foul.Paraguay were leading 1-0 at the time from Matias Galarza's second-minute goal, set up by Almirón.Urged by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the rule was introduced recently to punish racist or other discriminatory incidents on the pitch.The move came after Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt when he insulted Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior in a Champions League match in February. Vinícius Júnior said he was racially abused while Prestianni admitted to a homophobic slur and was banned by UEFA.

Sam Biscoe says he founded the Colchester Kings as he wanted a club that was representative of the LGBTQ+ community [Colchester Kings]When Sam Biscoe started a rugby team for players from the LGBTQ+ community in 2022, he braced himself for a modest turnout.Instead, about 30 people turned up for day one of training at Colchester Rugby Club in Essex, and the Colchester Kings became the first inclusive club in the East of England.Four years later, about 120 people are now associated with the club, including players, coaches and regular supporters, and it is a member of International Gay Rugby (IGR). The Colchester Kings are now not alone in embracing inclusive rugby, with new teams forming in Essex and Norfolk, and on Saturday, the region's latest side is meeting for the first time in Cambridge.So what is inclusive rugby, and how do LGBTQ+ players feel about finding their spot on the pitch in the East?What is inclusive rugby?Ross Barr-Hoyland is a trustee of International Gay Rugby [Ross Barr-Hoyland]According to IGR, its teams "provide opportunities for members of the LGBTQ+ community to enjoy competitive rugby whilst improving respect and tolerance for people of all gender identities and sexualities worldwide".Ross Barr-Hoyland, a trustee of the organisation which was set up in 2000, says there are now about 150 inclusive clubs registered with IGR.The 37-year-old says it is important LGBTQ+ people are visible in sport, especially as there are currently no openly gay players in the top flight of English rugby union."For now, we have to serve as those role models," he says. "I think that's what's beautiful about IGR clubs in general."Barr-Hoyland says many allies of the LGBTQ+ community also choose to join IGR teams because they prefer the culture compared to traditional rugby clubs.The IGR says it has clubs across the UK and on six continents, but until 2022, there were no inclusive rugby teams in the East of England.That was until Biscoe, who previously played for the inclusive club Northampton Outlaws, moved to Colchester and found no club to join in the Essex city, so he started the journey of setting up his own."On that first day, I was just very worried that maybe it would just be four of us handing a ball around to each other," the 39-year-old says."But on our very first training session, we had 30 people that turned up and it's just grown and grown from there."He says many players travel far to join the Kings, with other teams springing up across the region. "The more there is in the region then the better it is for all the teams," says Biscoe."There will be less travelling; we won't have to go halfway across the country to get a match in."If people find their place with those teams, then we're really happy about that. And to be able to have played a part of their history really means a lot to us," he says. Stuart Kimber is the captain of the Essex-based Rochford Hundred Hawks [Rochford Hundred Hawks]Iceni RFC launched in Wymondham, Norfolk, a few months after the Kings, and similar teams have since launched elsewhere in Essex and are currently in the process of joining IGR officially.Stuart Kimber, the captain of the Rochford Hundred Hawks, has played Rugby since he was in school and has previously been a member of traditional rugby clubs without any issues, but says he understands why some players may feel intimidated by them."We're constantly getting new people asking to join or if they can just come along and watch or how they can support the team without necessarily playing," the 32-year-old says.The Hawks currently have 17 players and about 20 people have joined the nearby Southend Sea Lions.Team manager Matt Driffill, 46, says the Sea Lions have attracted players ranging from 18 years old to men in their 50s."It's like a family," he adds. "People make really good friends when they come down and they start playing rugby."Simon Law (centre) joined the Northampton Outlaws in 2012 [Northampton Outlaws]The Northampton Outlaws, Biscoe's former inclusive rugby team, launched in 2012 and now has about 90 players, according to club president Simon Law.Law says there were well-known teams in big cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham when the Outlaws were formed, and since then he has enjoyed seeing clubs launch in smaller towns and cities.He thinks inclusive rugby has grown in popularity "because it's very intimidating as a gay man to walk into a non-inclusive rugby club where most people already know each other"."When you look to set up an inclusive club, the whole ethos is that you're looking to get people in that may never have played rugby before," the 46-year-old says.Since joining the team, Law has qualified as a referee and coach and enjoys welcoming new players every season.In Cambridge, founding members of the region's newest team have been promoting the club at the city's Pride festival and say they expect about 30 people to turn up to the Yales' first session on Saturday at the Cambridge Rugby Club. Do you have a story suggestion? Contact us below.Follow East of England news on X, Instagram and Facebook: BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks, BBC Cambridgeshire, BBC Essex, BBC Norfolk, BBC Northamptonshire or BBC Suffolk. More on this story City's first gay rugby team prepare for kick-offThe LGBTQ+ rugby club breaking down barriersLGBTQ+ rugby club wins 'life-changing' trophy Related internet links International Gay Rugby

Miguel Almiron spent six years with Newcastle United before leaving in 2025 [Getty Images]Paraguay's Miguel Almiron became the first player to be shown a red card for covering his mouth while speaking to an opponent during his side's World Cup group match against Turkey in San Francisco.Almiron, 32, obscured his mouth with his hand while speaking to Turkey's Mert Muldur, who immediately informed an officials standing next to him.Following a check by the video assistant referee (VAR), referee Ivan Barton from El Salvador announced to the crowd that he was sending off the former Newcastle United winger.The incident occurred just before half-time with Paraguay leading 1-0.Commentating for BBC Radio 5 Live, former Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison said: "If you know the rules, you shouldn't do it. You've got to credit the referee and the VAR for making that decision."Not everyone would agree with it, but if those are the rules, you've got to stick by the rules."Players who cover mouths face red card at World CupFollow Turkey v Paraguay liveThe new rule is being implemented for the first time at the World Cup.The decision to introduce it was taken during a special meeting of the International Football Association Board (Ifab) in Vancouver in April.Fifa president Gianni Infantino had previously said he would welcome such a punishment being introduced and that referees should work from a "presumption" that players have said "something they shouldn't have".The decision remains at the absolute discretion of the referee, who will consider all circumstances before issuing a red card.The issue of players covering their mouths became high profile in February when Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni raised his shirt while speaking to Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr during a Champions League game.The Argentina international was accused of racist abuse - which he denied - and provisionally banned for one match. Following a Uefa investigation, Prestianni was instead found guilty of homophobic conduct and banned for six matches - three of which were suspended.Play BBC Sport's new World Cup predictor gameWorld Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Jun 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin (5) celebrates in the dugout after hitting a home run in the second inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images | Kevin Ng-Imagn Images Red Sox 6, Mariners 2Piggy Back: Bryce Miller, .11 WPABroken Back: Luis Castillo, -.21 WPASaving Me From Recapping a No-Hitter Back: Josh Naylor, .88888888888888 kWPAGame thread comment of the day:This one goes in the file on my computer labeled “so true bestie”Discussion question: If you were to make a Dan Wilson soundboard like those ones dogs “talk” through, what would the buttons say?

Paraguay held on for an unlikely win against Türkiye Friday night in a result that has significant implications for Türkiye and Team USA.With Paraguay’s win, the U.S. Men’s National Team has locked up first place in Group D. And 0-2 Türkiye has been guaranteed fourth place in Group D, ensuring that it won’t advance to the knockout round, regardless of the results of the final two games of group play. USA had already secured its place in the knockout round thanks to a 2-0 win over Australia earlier Friday to improve its record in group play to 2-0. Now, with the No. 1 spot locked up, USA’s Group D finale next Thursday against Türkiye will amount to an exhibition match.With the Group D win, USA will play in the Round of 32 on July 1 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Its opponent has yet to be determined.Paraguay and Australia both remain eligible for advancement and will play each other in next Thursday’s other finale in Group D. Türkiye dominated the ball Friday night and played more than half of the game 11 on 10 following a red card on Paraguay late in the first half. But it couldn’t convert its possession advantage into a goal, and an early Paraguay goal proved to be the difference in the high-stakes game. Matías Galarza converted a turnover in Türkiye territory into a goal for Paraguay 1:04 into the game, and nobody scored again.

Manchester United’s Cunha scores twice as Brazil cruise past HaitiManchester United forward Matheus Cunha scored twice as Brazil cruised past Haiti in Friday’s important World Cup match. The Selecao came under criticism after their lacklustre display in their opening game against Morocco resulted in a 1-1 draw. But they bounced back with a convincing display in Philadelphia to take a big step towards qualification to the knockouts. Carlo Ancelotti featured Cunha in the starting line-up ahead of Brentford’s Igor Thiago and the United forward repaid the faith of his manager with a top display. The 27-year-old put his side ahead in the 23rd minute when Hannes Delcroix kicked the ball off him and it went into the net. It didn’t take the United forward long to bag his second as Vinicius Junior put him through and he blasted emphatically into the top corner. Cunha also posted excellent numbers during his 64 minutes on the pitch. He had 41 touches, registered five recoveries and won 80 percent of his duels. Vinicius got in on the act just before half-time, sliding his finish under the goalkeeper after chasing on to Lucas Paqueta’s brilliant ball over the top. Haiti delivered a better display after the interval as they pushed for a goal to make a comeback. However, Brazil’s defence remained largely untroubled and went on to seal a comfortable 3-0 victory. Ancelotti’s men are now scheduled to play their final group match against Scotland, who lost 1-0 to Morocco earlier in the day but still retain hopes for the knockouts. Stats from Sofascore

SEATTLE (AP) — Ranger Suarez carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning and the Boston Red Sox beat the Seattle Mariners 6-2 on Friday night.Suarez (3-3) struck out five and walked three in 6 2/3 innings. His no-hit bid ended with Josh Naylor's one-out double in the seventh.The 30-year-old lefty earned his first win since April 27 against Toronto.Caleb Durbin put the Red Sox ahead with a second-inning solo homer, his fifth of the year. Durbin had his second three-hit game this season, with his first coming against Tampa Bay on June 10.Ceddanne Rafaela scored on a wild pitch in the seventh, and Marcelo Mayer drove in two more runs with a bases-loaded single. Carlos Narváez added a sacrifice fly before Seattle finally escaped the inning on a diving catch by Dominic Canzone in right field.Suarez issued a two-out walk that loaded the bases in the seventh on his final pitch of the night, but Justin Slaten ended the threat by striking out pinch-hitter J.P. Crawford to preserve a 5-0 lead.Mayer added one more insurance run with a ninth-inning RBI double. The Mariners got on the board thanks to Julio Rodríguez's two-run homer in the ninth.Seattle starter Bryce Miller (3-1) struck out seven in five innings. He allowed three hits and one run. Luis Castillo, who has started in all but three of his 258 career appearances, gave up five runs in four innings of relief as the Mariners revived their “piggyback” rotation.Up nextRed Sox LHP Connelly Early (5-5, 3.81 ERA) starts opposite Mariners RHP Emerson Hancock (5-3, 3.28) on Saturday night.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Karl-Anthony Towns was among a handful of rotating guests on The Roommates Show with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart Friday at MSG, reflecting on the Knicks' NBA Finals championship run with a candid perspective when asked about how he won his collective matchup against the San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama throughout New York's 4-1 series victory."Everybody better than Jalen Brunson until it's time to be better than Jalen Brunson," Towns said, spotlighting the 2026 Finals MVP while referencing Wembanyama's status among the world's best basketball players. "I already know what 'Cap' is going to do, and you heard me on TV say I'm with him every step of the way. So, I had to make sure I was right there with him and getting the job done. So, I just wanted to make sure I go out there and utilize my experience. It brought up that same matchup like me and (Nikola) Jokic in the Denver series (with Minnesota during the 2024 Western Conference semifinals, which went seven games and saw the Timberwolves upset the defending-champion Nuggets), and I wanted to kind of bring that physicality and intensity to the game."Hart gave Towns his flowers while Hart explained the "sacrifices" that Towns made during the Knicks' title run."I want to highlight you because of the way you played," Hart said. "I want you to give us a glimpse into your mindset. But for me, as a teammate, obviously, you -- All-NBA, All-Star, carried Minnesota ... and your mentality and willingness to sacrifice, to sit there and be like, 'Aight, the offense is more so going to run through JB at a certain point,' but then we went to you as the hub and you really dictated everything, getting JB involved, getting OG (Anunoby) and Mikal (Bridges) involved, and you sacrificed your own points, touches, shots. So, one, I want to holler at you for that. But also, two, I want you to talk about your mindset during that time because I feel like you're a big part of the reason why that playoff run changed when we were down 2-1."Towns credited Mike Brown's openness while in his first year on the job and Brunson's selflessness as the team captain."It's easy when you can make those sacrifices when you've got such amazing teammates like I have," Towns said. "When you go into the locker room, you see everyone putting the work in -- day in, day out -- those decisions are very easy to make. After Game 3, we talked about it -- me and JB, everyone talked about it, just there's a way to make the game easier and also take us to another level offensively, which was translate our defense to be easier as well. So, you guys heard me out. You heard what I had to say. Mike (Brown) heard what I had to say. I appreciate y'all trusting me, trusting my experience, trusting my IQ. ... I trusted what I believed in. To have teammates like that who believed in me that much in a big point of our season like that to hear me out, trust in what I thought could take us to another level, I had to repay that trust, man, and I had to go show the best version of myself."All I ever asked JB, since the day I got here, and I told you that first day I got here and you welcomed me here into New York, I said, 'I want to make sure I amplify you to a whole 'nother level that you haven't even recognized for yourself. I want to be that partner in crime that you haven't had, and I want to make sure that, every step of the way, anytime you go anywhere, you're never alone, you always have someone behind you that's ready to do whatever is needed, to protect you, to protect this city.' I only asked him for one thing in return. That's all I asked in return, and JB's a man of his word because now we're sitting here with the trophy. So, I appreciate you, brother."

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 schedule: Fixtures, score, format, squads and result for season 5 matches originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 (Season 5) runs from June 20 to July 12, 2026, across Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru.Six teams compete across 34 matches, with two rebranded franchises entering as Coastal Kings Mangaluru and Shivamogga Yodhas.Karun Nair, Mayank Agarwal, Manish Pandey, and Smaran R headline a star-studded auction, with KL Rahul unavailable due to international commitments.Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Season 5 returns across three citiesThe Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 returns for its fifth edition in 2026, taking Karnataka's premier franchise T20 league to three cities for the first time. Mysuru, Hubballi and Bengaluru will all host matches, with the playoffs and final at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Two franchises enter under rebranded identities, and no team has retained the trophy across the first four seasons.The tournament was organised by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), with the Season 5 auction held in Bengaluru on June 5. Karun Nair became the most expensive buy at Rs 18 lakh, purchased by Coastal Kings Mangaluru, the rebranded reigning champions who won Season 4 as Mangaluru Dragons. Rahul Dravid unveiled the Season 5 trophy, lending the event additional prestige.When does Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 start and end?The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 (Season 5) runs from June 20 to July 12, 2026. The Mysuru phase covers June 20–25, the Hubballi phase covers June 27–July 3, and the Bengaluru phase, including playoffs, runs from July 5-July 12.Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 start and end?The following six teams compete in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026:Coastal Kings Mangaluru (rebranded from Mangaluru Dragons)Gulbarga MysticsHubli TigersKalyani Bengaluru BlastersMysore WarriorsShivamogga Yodhas (rebranded from Shivamogga Lions)What is the format of Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026?The tournament uses a single round-robin league stage, with all six teams playing each other across 30 league matches. The top four sides advance to the playoffs, which follow the IPL-style knockout structure:Qualifier 1: 1st vs 2ndEliminator: 3rd vs 4thQualifier 2: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of EliminatorFinal: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2Most matches are played as double-headers, with the first game starting at 2:30 PM IST and the second at 7:00 PM IST.Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026: Full match schedule and resultsPhase 1: Mysuru (June 20–25), SDNR Wadeyar GroundDateFixtureTime (IST)ResultJune 20Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Gulbarga Mystics2:30 PM—June 20Shivamogga Yodhas vs Mysore Warriors7:00 PM—June 21Coastal Kings Mangaluru vs Hubli Tigers2:30 PM—June 21Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Shivamogga Yodhas7:00 PM—June 22Mysore Warriors vs Hubli Tigers2:30 PM—June 22Gulbarga Mystics vs Coastal Kings Mangaluru7:00 PM—June 23Gulbarga Mystics vs Shivamogga Yodhas2:30 PM—June 23Mysore Warriors vs Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters7:00 PM—June 24Coastal Kings Mangaluru vs Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters2:30 PM—June 24Hubli Tigers vs Shivamogga Yodhas7:00 PM—June 25Coastal Kings Mangaluru vs Mysore Warriors2:30 PM—June 25Hubli Tigers vs Gulbarga Mystics7:00 PM—Phase 2: Hubballi (June 27 – July 3), KSCA StadiumDateFixtureTime (IST)ResultJune 27Shivamogga Yodhas vs Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters2:30 PM—June 27Mysore Warriors vs Gulbarga Mystics7:00 PM—June 28Shivamogga Yodhas vs Coastal Kings Mangaluru7:00 PM—June 29Gulbarga Mystics vs Hubli Tigers2:30 PM—June 29Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Coastal Kings Mangaluru7:00 PM—June 30Shivamogga Yodhas vs Gulbarga Mystics2:30 PM—June 30Mysore Warriors vs Coastal Kings Mangaluru7:00 PM—July 1Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Hubli Tigers7:00 PM—July 2Hubli Tigers vs Mysore Warriors2:30 PM—July 2Coastal Kings Mangaluru vs Shivamogga Yodhas7:00 PM—July 3Gulbarga Mystics vs Mysore Warriors2:30 PM—July 3Hubli Tigers vs Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters7:00 PM—Phase 3 and Playoffs: Bengaluru (July 5–12), M. Chinnaswamy StadiumDateFixtureTime (IST)ResultJuly 5Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters vs Mysore Warriors2:30 PM—July 5Shivamogga Yodhas vs Hubli Tigers7:00 PM—July 6Hubli Tigers vs Coastal Kings Mangaluru2:30 PM—July 6Gulbarga Mystics vs Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters7:00 PM—July 7Mysore Warriors vs Shivamogga Yodhas7:00 PM—July 8Coastal Kings Mangaluru vs Gulbarga Mystics7:00 PM—July 9Eliminator2:30 PM—July 9Qualifier 17:00 PM—July 10Qualifier 27:00 PM—July 12Final7:00 PM—Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 points tableRankTeamMatchesWinsLossesPointsNRR—Coastal Kings Mangaluru0—————Gulbarga Mystics0—————Hubli Tigers0—————Kalyani Bengaluru Blasters0—————Mysore Warriors0—————Shivamogga Yodhas0————Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 2026 squad players listCoastal Kings MangaluruKarun Nair (c), Shreyas Gopal, Koushik V, Suraj Ahuja, Venkatesh M, Nikin Jose SJ, Dheeraj Gowda, Santokh Singh, Kushaal M Wadhwani, Aadharsh SJ, Anvay Dravid, Karthik CA, Rajvir Wadhwa, Sidharth Akhil, Rathan BR, Prithviraj Shekhawat, Arya J Gowda, Aaron Cyril ChristieGulbarga MysticsManish Pandey (c), Macneil Noronha, Melu Kranthi Kumar, Sharath BR, Dhruv Prabhakar, Paras Gurbax Arya, Thippa Reddy, Lochan S Gowda, Prakhar Chaturvedi, Ronit More, Aaditya Nair, Gautam Mishra, Shaun Tristan Joseph, Aarav Mahesh, Nathan D'Mello, Suhas Purushotham, Aashish Mahesh, Kush MaratheHubli TigersAbhinav Manohar (c), Mayank Agarwal, Hardik Raj, Manvanth Kumar L, Shikhar Shetty, Mohammed Taha, Aneeshwar Gautam, Rakshith S, Vaibhav Sharma, Kruthik Krishna, Kumar LR, Aditya Goyal, Abhishek Ahlawat, Tanish Mahesh, Preetesh Ingale, Vikas Gowda, Ronak Yelwal, Vinayak Holla KKalyani Bengaluru BlastersShubhang Hegde, Pravin Dubey, KL Shrijith, A Rohan Patil, Vidwath Kaverappa, Wahid Faizan Khan, Shreevatsa Acharya, Shivaraj S, Rohan Naveen, Samit Dravid, Shashikumar K, Ishaan S, Nischith N Rao, Vijayaraj B, Manikanth Shivanand, Bhuvan Mohan Raju, Naman GD, Darshan MBMysore WarriorsChethan LR (c), Manoj Bhandage, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Karthikeya KP, Madhav Prakash Bajaj, Karthik S U, Lavish Kaushal, Prasidh Krishna, Devdutt Padikkal, Monish Reddy, Abhishek Prabhakar, Ritesh Bhatkal, Sanjay Ashwin C, Agastya S, Yuvraj Arora, Likhit M Bannur, Deepak Devadiga, Jasper EJShivamogga YodhasSmaran Ravichandran (c), Luvnith Sisodia, Abhilash Shetty, Yash Raj Punja, Naveen MG, Harshil Dharmani, Yashovardhan Parantap, Mohsin Khan, Aadarsh Prajwal, Tushar Singh, Aneesh KV, Shreesha S Achar, Dhanush Gowda R, Vaasav Venkatesh, Bheema Rao Navle, Shreyank Sagar, Yadugiri Yadav S, Chiranth ShivarudraMaharaja Trophy KSCA T20 past championsSeasonYearChampionsSeason 12022Gulbarga MysticsSeason 22023Hubli TigersSeason 32024Mysore WarriorsSeason 42025Mangaluru Dragons (now Coastal Kings Mangaluru)For all the latest cricket news, opinion, and commentary and to share your voice, head to our Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) pages.

🚨 Turkey knocked out of the World Cup!It's the fiasco of the year!A thunderbolt at the World Cup: Turkey has been eliminated from the World Cup after a dismal defeat to Paraguay (0-1).Caught cold by a goal from Matias Galarza after 64 seconds of play, the Turks produced a complete non-performance throughout the first 45 minutes.And yet, the match seemed to have been revived after Miguel Almiron was sent off just before halftime with the first application of the "Prestianni" rule.But despite having the numerical advantage for the entire second half, Turkey kept making mistakes in front of goal, even wasting several huge chances.Unable to find a breakthrough, the Turks therefore become the second team to be eliminated from the World Cup after Haiti. Meanwhile, Paraguay is back in the race and will play for qualification to the round of 16 in what looks like the Group D decider against Australia.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Jan 24, 2026; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Davis Fogle (4) shoots the ball against the San Francisco Dons in the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaga Bulldogs won 68-66. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images | James Snook-Imagn Images These types of games against mid-major conference opponents are vital for a school like the Gonzaga Bulldogs, playing a filler in between matchups with two power conference schools during the non-conference. According to scheduling guru Rocco Miller of Bracketeer, the New Mexico State Aggies of Conference USA will travel to the Inland Northwest to take on the Zags for their home opener on Nov. 7.This will be the second-ever meeting between the two programs. Gonzaga beat New Mexico State at the Kennel back in 2013 by a relatively slim margin, 80-68. Sources: Gonzaga will host New Mexico State as part of its 2026-27 non-conference schedule. The date is set for Saturday, November 7th. Second-ever meeting (last in 2013-14) between the two programs.#Pac12#CUSA— Rocco Miller (@RoccoMiller8) June 20, 2026Here are the announced games on coach Mark Few’s 2026-27 non-conference schedule:*at Arkansas Razorbacks (Oct. 2026, at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville, Arkansas)vs. Purdue Boilermakers (Nov. 2, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada)vs. New Mexico State Aggies (Nov. 7, 2026, at McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Washington)vs. LSU Tigers (Nov. 14, 2026, at Veterans Memorial Arena in Spokane, Washington)Kansas State Wildcats/Players Era Festival (Nov. 24-28, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada)at Creighton Bluejays (Dec. 12, 2026, at Chi Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska)vs. Michigan State Spartans (Dec. 19, 2026, at Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California)vs. Duke Blue Devils (Feb. 20, 2027, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan)*exhibitionAfter the opening round matchup with Kansas State at the Players Era, the Zags could end up matching up with either the Baylor Bears or Alabama Crimson Tide on Nov. 26. Then, either the reigning champion Michigan Wolverines, Creighton Bluejays, Miami Hurricanes, or TCU Horned Frogs on Nov. 27.The Players Era championship will take place on Nov. 28. All the games for Gonzaga in Sin City are set for the T-Mobile Arena on the ESPN Networks.Potential non-conference battles with the Big Ten Conference’s UCLA Bruins and Oregon Ducks are on the fence, either taking place in the 2026-27 or 2027-28 season. UCLA would be the first game of their renewed two-year neutral site series, and Oregon the second game of their two-year neutral site series.The Pac-12 Conference regular-season matchups and the Pac-12 Conference Tournament dates in Las Vegas, Nevada, have yet to be announced. With nine members in the conference, the Pac-12 is expected to have a round robin scheduling format where each team plays everyone twice. Once at home and once on the road.The location for the postseason tournament looks to be either at the MGM Grand Garden Arena or the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay. Arden Cravalho is a Gonzaga University graduate from the Bay Area… Follow him on X @a_cravalho

Isaiah Stewart is on the trade block and on the radar of multiple teams across the league originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Despite being one of the mainstays of the Detroit Pistons over the past few years, it seems they are willing to part ways with Isaiah Stewart in the 2026 offseason. He has been a net positive for the team, as he is a superb defender who also has upside as an offensive player.While some people might point out his disciplinary issues, Stewart is still a valuable player. Now that he is on the trade block, other teams might be looking for ways to scoop him up in a trade.Isaiah Stewart could be a valuable player for teams in the offseasonStewart is one of the most interesting players ahead of the 2026 offseason. The Pistons were successful with him as an option in the frontcourt. He can play as a defensive anchor, but he has also grown into a reliable player on offense.In the 2025-26 season, he averaged 10 points, five rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. In only 22.7 minutes a night, that is an impressive stat line, which could make him a valuable option for any team across the league.MORE: Karl-Anthony Towns believes the NBA is lucky to have Victor Wembanyama as the face of the leagueThe teams that are interested and would benefit massively from getting him are the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, and the San Antonio Spurs. Since the Pistons are interested in trading him away, those teams should jump at the chance of getting him.The Celtics and Heat need big men they can always rely on to be solid defensively. In the Spurs' case, they almost won the championship this season without having a real backup for Victor Wembanyama.If Stewart goes to the Spurs, he would be one of their most valuable players. He can play both power forward and center, which will be a cheat code when it comes to having him and Wembanyama on the same team.At the same time, the Spurs also need some enforcers on the roster. Wembanyama has received all kinds of physical contact over the past three years, and a player like Stewart could change that story.More NBA news:A new Giannis Antetokounmpo trade idea will involve plenty of players and picksShaquille O'Neal suggests something that Victor Wembanyama must improve onDe'Aaron Fox's future with the Spurs is not a surprise after the NBA FinalsIman Shumpert admits that Victor Wembanyama has become the NBA's villainDylan Harper's amazing rookie campaign has apparently made people forget about Cooper Flagg

Paraguay scored early and then held on to beat Turkey 1-0 at the World Cup on Friday with 10 men after Miguel Almirón became the first player sent off at the tournament for covering his mouth in a confrontation.Almirón got his marching orders in first half stoppage time after a video review revealed that he had violated new rules when he briefly covered his mouth while exchanging words with Turkey player Mert Müldür.Urged by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the rule was introduced recently to punish racist or other discriminatory incidents on the pitch after Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt when he insulted Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior in a Champions League match in February.Almirón had earlier set up Matias Galarza to score the only goal just over a minute into the match into the bottom corner.Paraguay kept their knock-out rounds bid alive with a first victory after losing their opener against the United States and will play Australia for second place and an assured last-32 berth in the group finale next week.Turkey were eliminated with a second defeat, coupled with the US team's victory against Australia earlier in the day. Their best chance came in the 35th minute when a header from Müldür hit the crossbar and then the right post without crossing the line.Paraguay's victory also means that the US have won Group D ahead of their last game against Turkey.

Alex Freeman of the United States celebrates after heading the World Cup co-hosts into a 2-0 lead in a victory over Australia (JAMIE SQUIRE)The United States marched into the last 32 of the World Cup on Friday with a 2-0 victory over Australia as Brazil rediscovered their scoring touch to eliminate Haiti.A day after Mexico sealed their place in the knockout rounds, the USA emulated their fellow World Cup co-hosts with a clinical Group D win over Australia in Seattle.A Cameron Burgess own goal in the 11th minute and a headed effort from Alex Freeman two minutes before half-time sealed a comfortable win for Mauricio Pochettino's side, who have advanced to the second phase of the tournament with a game to spare.After an unconvincing build-up to the World Cup, the Americans have made a dream start to the tournament with Friday's victory following a stylish 4-1 demolition of Paraguay in their opening game last week.A day of celebration for the co-hosts got even better later Friday after Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkey confirmed that the US would clinch top spot in Group D, ensuring a theoretically easier draw in the last 32."It was a fantastic game again, very good first half," Pochettino said. "I think we dominated the game against a very tough team."When the draw happened in December I thought it was going to be a really difficult, a really tough game."Paraguay meanwhile remain alive in the tournament after their gritty 1-0 victory in Santa Clara that eliminated Turkey.Matias Galarza's strike after just 63 seconds secured all three points for Paraguay in a game that saw the South Americans' Miguel Almiron become the first player ever to be sent off for covering his mouth while confronting an opponent under new FIFA rules.Former Newcastle player Almiron was given his marching orders in first half stoppage time after covering his mouth while he appeared to direct a comment at Turkey's Mert Muldur.FIFA announced in April that players who cover their mouths in confrontations with opponents will be given a red card, part of an initiative designed to tackle racism.- Brazil romp, Scotland stumble -In other games on Friday, Brazil took control of their destiny in Group C with a 3-0 victory over Haiti that ended the Caribbean nation's chances of reaching the last 32.Two goals from Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha and a Vinicius Junior strike sealed a comfortable win for the Brazilians in a one-sided game at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field.The result ensured Haiti will finish bottom of Group C and are the first team to be eliminated from contention for a place in the knockout rounds.Brazil's victory though was marred by an apparent injury to star forward Raphinha, who left the game in the 40th minute after an innocuous-looking tussle with Haiti defender Martin Experience.Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti was unable to provide an update on Raphinha's injury afterwards, instead preferring to praise his team's "complete" performance."It was a complete match, much better in the first half," Ancelotti said. "It was what we expected from this game: better quality, fewer mistakes, more effectiveness in attack and more control at the back." Brazil are now level on four points with Morocco in Group C, but lead the North Africans on goal difference.Morocco secured their first win of the tournament on Friday with a 1-0 defeat of Scotland at Foxborough, Massachusetts.Ismael Saibari scored the games's only goal, lashing home a thunderous angled strike in the second minute to leave the Scots reeling.Morocco will face Haiti in their final Group C game on June 24, while Brazil take on the Scots in Miami."Tonight we showed we can compete with the teams in the top 10. Brazil will be a different game, they play with less structure but they have quality that can hurt you at any point," Scotland's John McGinn said."We will need to be at our best. We know what we need to do to try to get through to the next round."rcw/gj

Jun 19, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners outfielder Connor Joe (9) misses a pop fly by Boston Red Sox infielder Marcelo Mayer (11) in the eighth inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images | Kevin Ng-Imagn Images In front of a sell-out crowd of 45,775 on fireworks night on a day the stands were packed with Red Sox and World Cup fans alike, the Mariners fizzled out, dropping the opening game against Boston in dismal fashion. By the ninth inning, a loud “let’s go Red Sox” chant had erupted, with the only joy for Mariners fans a garbage-time Julio Rodríguez two-run shot.Every piggyback game feels like two games, but the contrast tonight was especially stark. In the Bryce Miller game, the story was: one ambush home run and a lot of good pitching between; in the Luis Castillo-led part of the piggyback, the story was: one bad and BABIP-fueled bad inning, one also-not-great-inning and some decent pitching between. But the part of the story that was consistent throughout the game was the Mariners offense once again failing to do much against a left-handed starter, and failing to capitalize on opportunities when they had them.Bryce Miller had a clean first and was one out away from a clean second when Caleb Durbin ambushed a first-pitch fastball at the top of the zone and yanked it over the wall in left field just enough to clear the fence – a home run at just 13 MLB parks including T-Mobile and Fenway. Maybe that shook Miller’s confidence somewhat, because he then struggled to put away Marcelo Mayer, getting into a ten-pitch battle that ended with Mayer staring at a fastball on the plate for a called strike three.Miller didn’t have a clean inning after the first, but he was able to face the minimum in both the third and fourth thanks to a well-timed double play, getting Mickey Gaspar, who has both the name and countenance of a 1900s circus strongman, to tap into an inning-ending double play on the splitter. In the fourth, he got an assist from Cal Raleigh (welcome back Cal) throwing out Wilyer Abreu trying to steal after Abreu had jumped on a first-pitch fastball for a ground ball single. Miller’s fifth inning was a cherry on top of a strong day, with two strikeouts and a weak groundout from Meyer, who’d given him the tough at-bat earlier. Miller doubled up on the curveball to Jarren Duran after Duran flinched after the pitch for his sixth strikeout of the day, and then went split-sweeper to Durbin, who had homered off him earlier, for his seventh strikeout.“Everything felt good,” said Miller postgame, noting that he didn’t even have a chance to get to all his pitches because he was seeing so much success on the four-seamer. “I didn’t even throw a cutter today, so we still had that in the back pocket, and I think I threw one sinker…it’s never easy coming out of a one run game, especially when – I felt like I was rolling. But it was. You know. It was the plan going into it, so not really much that I can say to change anybody’s mind…when there’s a pre-set plan, there’s not really much arguing you can do.”At least Miller was able to avenge himself against Durbin and Meyer, but unfortunately, that’s where the moral victory part of the day ends, leaving just the less-fun defeat part. Left-handed pitching has been the bête noire for the Mariners this season, and Ranger Suarez is a particularly good lefty, so the Mariners were already facing an uphill climb, but four strikeouts in the first two innings – with two of those coming from righties in Cal and Julio – isn’t exactly a recipe for success. The Mariners didn’t have a baserunner until the fourth, with Cal working a walk off Suarez in his second time facing him, declining this time to chase after the curveball, but Julio wasn’t able to make a similar adjustment, getting punched out looking on the sinker, and then Josh Naylor battled heroically for eight pitches but wound up popping out softly.On as the second part of the piggyback, Luis Castillo had a strong first inning of work but a BABIP-fueled meltdown inning in the seventh. Ceddane Rafaela doubled off a fastball up in the zone to lead off the inning, giving the Red Sox a roughly 70% chance to increase their lead. What they’d wind up doing is putting the game out of reach. Some of it was Castillo’s fault: he lost the handle on a slider, allowing Rafaela to score from third to make it 2-0, but if you like Increased Velo Castillo – he was touching 97-98 on his fastball – you also have to be prepared for that increased velo on the slider, like this 90 mph one that Castillo said “surprised” him.If Castillo had been able to cap the damage there, that would have been one thing, but things quickly got worse with four straight singles – two hard-hit on pitches that caught way too much plate, and then a pair of bad-luck more weakly hit ones off the slider that found holes. A sac fly on another slider brought in the fifth run of the inning and all of a sudden the Mariners were looking at a 5-0 deficit in a game where they were being no-hit. “One of those things where sometimes things just don’t go your way,” said Castillo postgame through translator Freddy Lllanos.After the blowup in the top of the inning, the Mariners attempted to answer back, finally knocking Suarez out of the game in the seventh. Cal walked again facing Suarez, but Julio went after a cutter for an easy flyout for the first out. That left it to the lefty Naylor, who finally, finally broke up the no-hitter with a ringing double to right-center. After Josh Naylor’s no-hitter-breaking double, Dominic Canzone grounded out for the second out of the inning, but Cole Young was able to work a walk. A moment of appreciation for Cole Young: facing a tough lefty, he swung at strikes only, didn’t expand and chase the curveball or cutter, and overall did his best. If the Mariners want to leftyproof their lineup, Cole Young having at-bats like this will go a long way towards doing it. With the Mariners threatening, the Red Sox opted to bring in righty Justin Slaten, meaning Dan Wilson could free J.P. Crawford from the bench to try to come up with a clutch two-out RBI. Sadly Crawford couldn’t come up with any of his signature two-out magic, striking out and stranding the bases loaded.The Red Sox were able to get one more run off Castillo with another set of two-out back-to-back doubles in the ninth, but by that point the game was pretty well out of hand for the Mariners. Julio Rodríguez provided the lone offensive highlight, hitting a garbage-time homer (with Cal aboard with his third walk of the day, the Red Sox pitching had zero interest in pitching to Cal Raleigh in this game from either side of the plate) off Tommy Kahnle, last seen being bullied by the Mariners in the ALDS. No no-hitter and no shutout goals achieved, then, but the more elusive “win back to back games” goal remains out of reach for these frustratingly inconsistent 2026 Mariners.

FIFA World CupTurkey 0 - 1 Paraguay FTMatias Galarza's goal was the fastest so far scored at this World Cup [Getty Images]Miguel Almiron became the first player to be sent off for covering his mouth in the World Cup but 10-man Paraguay bravely clung on to boost their last-32 hopes and eliminate Turkey.Paraguay took the lead after just 64 seconds when midfielder Matias Galarza fired in from outside the area to score the fastest goal so far in this tournament and what turned out to be the match-winner.Then former Newcastle United midfielder Almiron put his hand over his mouth in a confrontation with Turkey defender Mert Muldur during first-half stoppage time which led to a video assistant referee review and a sending off from Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton as part of a new rule introduced before the World Cup.Both sides came into the game on the back of defeats with Paraguay thrashed by hosts USA 4-1 while Australia beat Turkey 2-0 - meaning there was an edge to the meeting with so much on the line, which led to a fiery contest.Turkey dominated the first half but managed just one shot on target from 12 attempts while a deflected header from Muldur hit the bar and the post - before Almiron's dismissal then ensured it would be an even more difficult night for Paraguay.Merih Demiral did test Orlando Gill after the break before substitute Deniz Gul wasted a great chance with a close-range header that was straight at the Paraguay goalkeeper.Can Uzun forced Gill into a fine save late on before Gul somehow turned wide the rebound, although it was likely it would have been ruled out for offside to somewhat spare his blushes.Turkey had 30 attempts on goal against the Socceroos in their first game and a further 32 here but could not find a way through against the 10 men in the second half and remain goalless in this tournament.They cannot progress now after two defeats while Paraguay know if they beat Australia in their final Group D game, then they will be through to the knockout stages.Turkey are out of the World Cup after failing to score in two games [Getty Images]Dominant Turkey draw blankVincenzo Montella's side have failed to score so far at this World Cup despite attempting 62 shots which, according to Opta, is the most attempts without a goal in any two-match span in the competition on record (since 1966).Not only did Turkey have a ridiculous amount of chances, they also dominated the ball in both their games.Against Australia, they had 71.6% possession and against Paraguay it was 78.5%. They were helped in the second game by the fact they were facing 10 men, but they were the dominant team even before Almiron was given his marching orders.They also had a higher xG than their opponents in both games with 1.33 in the game against Australia, who had 0.77 but scored twice. Their xG against Paraguay was 2.1 to the South Americans' 0.32. And they had more than 100 touches in their opponents' penalty area across the two games.The critical eye would point to the fact they had just 13 shots on target across the two games.Yet it is remarkable, given the share of play they have had, that they have not scored in two games - and are heading home no matter the result against USA next week.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Germany meet Ivory Coast in Toronto knowing a win for either will secure their passage into the knockout stages and all but guarantee top spot with a round of fixtures still to play.Julian Nagelsmann’s side may have scored seven against minnows Curacao in their opener but it was not until the second half that they pulled away and the Mannschaft’s head coach remains under an intense spotlight at home from a punditry team led by Jurgen Klopp.Now they face the far sterner prospect of this meeting against an Ivorian team possessing plenty of attacking talent. Amad scored the late winner against Ecuador with plenty of eyes on young winger Yan Diomande amid interest from a host of big European clubs. Diomande was outstanding against Ecuador while several team-mates showed some early nerves in their tournament debuts.Here’s everything you need to know about this World Cup 2026 game:When is Germany v Ivory Coast?Germany face Ivory Coast at 9pm BST on Saturday 20 June (4pm ET) in Toronto. How can I watch it?Viewers in the UK can watch the match free-to-air on ITV1 with coverage starting at 8pm BST. It can also be live-streamed on ITVX.Team newsNagelsmann has no fresh injury concerns and seems likely to stick with Jamal Musiala in the No. 10 role instead of Denis Undav.Ivorian defender Evan N'Dicka continues to struggle with a hamstring injury, while forward Elye Wahi has been denied entry to Canada owing to a previous arrestPredicted line-upsGermany XI: Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Sclotterbeck, Raum; Goretzka, Pavlovic; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; HavertzIvory Coast XI: Fofana; Doue, Kossounou, Diomande, Konan; Kessie, Sangare; Amad, Toure, Diomande; Bonny.

India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI live score, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Chennai originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY MATCH DETAILS:Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, ChennaiCaptains: Shubman Gill (IND), Hashmatullah Shahidi (AFG)Toss result: TBDLive Telecast: JioHotstar (India), Willow TV app, Sling TV (USA & Canada), Ariana Television Network(Afghanistan), Fox Cricket (Australia), CricLife, StarzPlay (UAE)Umpires & Match officials: Richard Illingworth, Virender Sharma (Umpires), Chris Gaffaney (TV Umpire), Rohan Pandit (Reserve Umpire), Ranjan Madugalle (Match referee)Match result: TBDPlayer of the Match: TBDIndia vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI live match ScorecardFollow along with the latest live scorecard here as the match unfolds, or click here for key text commentary updates from the action.India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI: Predicted playing XIIndiapredictedplaying XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince YadavAfghanistanpredicted playing XI: Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Darwish Rasooli, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharoti, AM Ghazanfar, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Bilal SamiIndia vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI UpdatesHello everyone, and welcome to the live blog for the India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.India arrive at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai with an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series against Afghanistan, having demolished their opponents in both Dharamsala and Lucknow. A clean sweep against a side they have never lost to in ODI cricket awaits if Shubman Gill's team can deliver a third consecutive performance of authority.The 2nd ODI in Lucknow set the tone for what this series has looked like in full flow. Gill scored 154 off 110 balls, Ishan Kishan continued his remarkable comeback with 125 off 79, and India posted 402 before dismissing Afghanistan for 232 in 44.3 overs. The 170-run margin was emphatic and left little doubt about the gulf in class between the two sides at this stage. Chepauk is a different proposition, though. The surface at MA Chidambaram historically assists spinners and can offer uneven bounce later in the game, which means Afghanistan's Rashid Khan will enter this fixture with greater hope of influence than he found in either of the previous venues. India, meanwhile, has a squad with enough depth and variety to adapt to whatever the surface offers.Toss: Toss to take place at 1:00 p.m.India vs Afghanistan: Win ProbabilityTeamWin percentageIND75%AFG25%Key highlights and reactions: India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODIInside Kohli’s injury rehab: How the India star is fast-tracking his returnBCCI confirms Rana's return: Will India hand KKR star a spot in Chennai dead rubber?Which Indian captains have scored 150 or more runs in an ODI innings? Shubman Gill joins exclusive clubChennai weather update: Chances of rain interrupting playThere are chances of rain in Chennai. We might have a truncated game. Let's take a look at the hourly temperatures and the probability of rainfall in Chennai on Saturday.1:00 PM: 36°C (49% chance of rain)2:00 PM: 35°C (53% chance of rain)3:00 PM: 39°C (55% chance of rain)4:00 PM: 34°C (24% chance of rain)5:00 PM: 32°C (19% chance of rain)6:00 PM: 32°C (18% chance of rain)7:00 PM: 32°C (16% chance of rain)8:00 PM: 31°C (16% chance of rain)9:00 PM: 31°C (16% chance of rain)10:00 PM: 30°C (16% chance of rain)11:00 PM: 30°C (16% chance of rain)India vs Afghanistan ODI 2026 series scheduleMatchDateVenueTime (IST)1st ODIJune 14 (Sat)HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala1:30 p.m.2nd ODIJune 17 (Tue)Ekana International Cricket Stadium, Lucknow1:30 p.m.3rd ODIJune 20 (Fri)MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai1:30 p.m.For all the latest cricket news, opinion and commentary and to share your voice head to our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA - JUNE 08: Julian Nagelsmann, Head Coach of Team Germany looks on during a Team Germany training session at W. Dennie Spry Soccer Stadium on June 08, 2026 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) | Getty Images German national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann is not going to waver on his stance — Leroy Sané will keep his starting spot at right wing vs. Ivory Coast on Saturday. “He has trained well. I’m not someone that can be swayed by the public opinion. I don’t see why I should drop him,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “They’ve been great in World Cup qualifiers and the friendlies. They’re quite unpredictable in the way they play. They are really strong on the wings, their energy on and off the ball is extraordinary. They are very disciplined in the way they press, but also in the way they react when they win the ball. We’ll try to counter their strengths tomorrow as best as possible.”As for the game, Nagelsmann just wants a win. “We want to win, that’s the goal. There’s no real reason for me to change anything about the lineup, but I’m also not going to tell you every single one of my thoughts right now. We are excited and believe it’s going to be a really good game,” the head coach stated. Germany should be favored, but Ivory Coast does present some danger. The Germans are well-equipped to handle any trouble coming their way, but it should be an interesting test for Die Mannschaft. Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:New, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community posts

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Pinch-hitter Jonah Heim launched a tying homer with two outs in the ninth and the Athletics allowed 11 straight runs before rallying from seven down to defeat the Los Angeles Angels 12-11 in 10 innings Friday night.Zack Gelof started the comeback with an RBI single in the sixth, and the A's got two-run homers from Jacob Wilson in the seventh, Max Muncy in the eighth and Heim in the ninth to tie it 11-all.Nick Kurtz walked with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th to force home the winning run. It was the largest comeback win for the A's this season.Gelof extended his hitting streak to 23 games — the longest active run in the majors.Denzer Guzman, Jose Siri, Zach Neto, Logan O’Hoppe and Nolan Schanuel all went deep for the Angels, matching their season high for homers in a game.Tyler Soderstrom hit a one-out double in the ninth before Heim connected for his second career tying pinch-hit homer. The first came earlier this month in a 15-14 loss to Milwaukee in Las Vegas.Henry Bolte drew a leadoff walk from Kirby Yates (0-3) in the 10th. Following a double steal, Muncy flied out and Gelof was hit by a pitch to load the bases. Samy Natera Jr. entered and walked Kurtz on five pitches, scoring automatic runner Lawrence Butler.A's starter Jeffrey Springs allowed six runs on four hits and four walks in 3 2/3 innings. Elvis Alvarado (3-1) pitched two scoreless innings to earn the win.José Soriano struck out six in five innings. He permitted six hits, four runs and four walks. Up nextRHP J.T. Ginn (5-3, 2.91 ERA) pitches Saturday for the A's in the third game of the four-game series. The Angels had not announced their starter.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

🎥 World Cup highlights: Brazil joy as stars shine, USA and Morocco strongWith a jam-packed schedule, the World Cup got the weekend underway. On Friday evening, the USA celebrated a 2-0 win over Australia in an intensely contested match.At midnight, it was then Morocco and Scotland’s turn. Future Bayern signing Ismael Saibari rewarded the North Africans for another strong performance.In Group C, record world champions Brazil also faced underdogs Haiti. The Brazilian attacking stars made things clear as early as the first half.Early in the morning, Turkey and Paraguay also went head-to-head. We’ll bring you the highlights from that match later!This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

Matheus Cunha: Man United forward fires Brazil to World Cup winManchester United forward Matheus Cunha inspired Brazil to a commanding 3-0 World Cup win over Haiti on Friday, 19 June, at the Philadelphia Stadium. Carlo Ancelotti’s team arrived at the fixture desperate for a win after drawing their opening game against Morocco.Cunha had started that tie from the bench, before coming on for his World Cup debut in the second half. While he failed to muster a goal contribution, the 27 year old was praised for his performances by the country’s media.Cunha is coming off an impressive campaign with United, finishing with 10 goals and four assists in 35 appearances across all competitions. He ended the season as one of Michael Carrick’s most important men, helping the Red Devils secure third place in the Premier League table.Matheus Cunha stats: 2025/26 SeasonSource: Transfermarkt. Cunha’s ability to carry out various roles in the final third also made him an attractive proposition for Ancelotti. The Italian manager handed the player his first World Cup start on Friday, and he did not disappoint. Brazil blow away HaitiBrazil made two changes to the team that shared points with Morocco, with Danilo coming into the back line in place of Roger Ibanez and Cunha replacing Igor Thiago in attack. The Selecao took the lead in the 23rd minute through the United star, who reacted quickly after Johny Placide parried Vinicius Junior’s shot into his path.Replays confirmed that the goal was a bit fortuitous, as Markhus Lacroix’s attempted clearance had ricocheted off Cunha. The Brazilian, though, gave fans a reminder of his abilities before the end of the break. Latching on to Vinicius’ through ball, Cunha unleashed an exquisite finish into the roof of the net to double the score and asserted the Selecao’s dominance in the tie. The Real Madrid forward, meanwhile, applied the finishing touches at the stroke of half-time to take the game away from the Caribbean nation.Ederson, who has reportedly agreed to join United this summer, did come on for his World Cup debut in the 81st minute, replacing Bruno Guimaraes. The 25 year old completed all three of his attempted passes and even squandered a big chance. Brazil ended the game with nine shots, five of which were on target, and 57% possession. While Vinicius was adjudged the man of the match, Cunha justified his selection ahead of Igor Thiago with a masterclass.Cunha’s form will please UnitedCunha started the game as a focal point of attack and showed signs of a budding relationship with Vinicius Junior that will please Ancelotti. The United star managed 41 touches of the ball, and registered 29 passes with 86% passing accuracy. The former Wolverhampton Wanderers forward’s only attempted cross did not reach its intended target. Cunha also lost the ball nine times, but he refused to give up an inch on the pitch without a fight. The Brazilian won four of his five duels and was also fouled once. He registered one interception and two tackles as well. Cunha, however, failed to register any dribbles, but scored two vital goals to power his team to the top of Group C.Matheus Cunha Stats vs Haiti: 2026 World CupSource: Sofascore. Final ThoughtsCunha has already displayed his versatility since arriving at Old Trafford, regularly operating through the middle under former head coach Ruben Amorim, as well as his successor Carrick. United fans will now hope that the Brazilian can build on his World Cup performances, return unscathed and propel the team back to their glory days next season. Featured image by Molly Darlington/Getty Imagesonline pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Jun 19, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Mookie Betts (50) celebrates after a double during the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Dalton Rushing walked it off with a clutch ninth-inning RBI base hit for the Dodgers (49-27), securing a 6-5 comeback victory over the Orioles (35-42) Friday night at Dodger Stadium.The Dodgers offense stranded 12 base runners on the night, squandering many scoring opportunities against Baltimore pitching. Rushing channeled all With two outs, Dalton Rushing hit a clutch two-run single to right field, bringing in Alex Call and Ryan Ward to cap off a wild, three-run ninth inning rallySasaki looked to turn the page on his last start against the White Sox when he stepped back in a series-opening 8-2 loss to the White Sox at Rate Field. Sasaki was cruising until the sixth inning when Baltimore scored three runs to tie the game. Taylor Ward tested the arm of Andy Pages to start the game in dramatic fashion. Taylor tried to extend a base hit into two bases, but Pages had something to say about that. Pages came up with his seventh outfield assist of the season after throwing out Taylor at second. Don't run on Andy.🗳️: https://t.co/BXKr9Iuhiepic.twitter.com/99DvThY9ot— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 20, 2026Roki was touching the corners with a fastball touching 99-101 mph and his nasty splitter in the first. The Dodgers were without Shohei Ohtani in the lineup, but the lineup sans Ohtani did a good job to get on the board in the first against the rookie Gibson. Kyle Tucker led off with a walk, and a Mookie Betts double put two into scoring position with two outs for Max Muncy. Muncy singled to right field to cash in both runners and make it 2-0 early. Tommy Edman kept the first inning alive with his first hit of the season, an opposite field single. Quick work from Max. pic.twitter.com/tIPDFEVOXN— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 20, 2026Dino Ebel was feeling froggy in the home half of the second. He sent Alex Freeland home on a Pages double to left field. Freeland’s swimmingly good slide home was one we won’t forget soon. The call at the plate was safe. Baltimore challenged and lost. 3-0 Dodgers.Alex Freeland pulls off the slick swim move to score at home! 🏊‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/Z84VrU08q4— MLB (@MLB) June 20, 2026The Dodgers loaded the bases against Gibson in the third with nobody out. Betts had a nice at-bat, won a challenge on a ball, and dumped a single to lead off the frame. Muncy drew his patented walk, and Edman singled for his second hit of the game. Gibson reared back to strike out Ryan Ward, Dalton Rushing, and Freeland to strand the bases loaded. This would be a key inning and wasted scoring opportunity. The Orioles finally got to Roki after 5 2/3 innings and back-to-back home runs in the sixth. A two-run home run by Gunnar Henderson in the sixth made it 3-2. Pete Alonso also got a hold of one for a solo home run to tie the game up 3-3 and chase Sasaki. The Dodgers got another man on base in the bottom of the sixth with a Tucker single. Andrew Kittredge and Freeman battled in a 11-pitch full-count at-bat for the final out of the inning. Freeman sent one for a ride, but Leody Taveras made a great catch crashing into the wall to retire the side and preserve the tie.The Orioles plated another two runs in the top of the seventh, five straight runs, to put them ahead 5-3. Will Klein and the Dodgers got into a jam in the top of the seventh, Back-to-back base hits for the Orioles and a walk loaded the bases with one out. Jeremiah Jackson singled in two to give Baltimore the lead.The Dodgers stranded another runner in the bottom of the seventh and one in the eighth.Betts got the Dodgers back within one run with his eighth home run of the season, a solo homer against closer Ryan Helsley with one out in the ninth. It was a three-hit game for Betts. Mookie Betts brings the @Dodgers within a run in the 9th 👀 pic.twitter.com/wSNO8DPYwy— MLB (@MLB) June 20, 2026Muncy drew a walk even though Helsey got a break on a challenged foul ball call. Edman faced his fellow former Cardinal Helsey, but he popped it out to Alonso in foul ground for the second out. Ward walked to put pinch-runner Alex Call into scoring position for Rushing. Rushing had a rough night up to that point, chasing high cheese and striking out three times. He came up clutch in the ninth with a RBI single to right. A throwing error by right fielder Tyler O’Neill allowed the winning run with Ward to come in for the 6-5 walk-off win. BIG TIME RUSH. pic.twitter.com/PwHV8L0dDh— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 20, 2026Friday particularsHome runs: Gunnar Henderson (16), Pete Alonso (17); Mookie Betts (8)WP — Blake Treinen (4-1): 1 IP, 2 strikeouts (9 pitches)LP — Ryan Helsley (0-3): 2/3 IP, 2 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, 0 strikeouts (23 pitches)Up nextThe series continues on Saturday night at (7:10 p.m.; SportsNet LA, MLB Network), with Yoshinobu Yamamoto (7-4, 2.52 ERA, 0.840 WHIP) on the mound for the Dodgers. Trevor Rogers (3-7, 5.86 ERA, 1.45 WHIP) starts for Baltimore.

Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrates a run in the dugout during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts' (50) son warming up for first pitch before an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts' (50) son warming up for first pitch before an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy (13) warming up before an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy (13) warming up before an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrating an out at second base during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrating an out at second base during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) waiting for a pitch during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) waiting for a pitch during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Baltimore Orioles pitcher Trey Gibson (43) pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneBaltimore Orioles pitcher Trey Gibson (43) pitching during an MLB baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrating hitting a double during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrating hitting a double during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy (13) celebrating a hit during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Max Muncy (13) celebrating a hit during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages (44) upset about striking out during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers outfielder Andy Pages (44) upset about striking out during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) running bases during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) running bases during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) slides into home safely during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) slides into home safely during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrates a hit during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrates a hit during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) upset after striking out during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) upset after striking out during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) smiles after a batter is tagged out at second during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) smiles after a batter is tagged out at second during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker (23) is tagged out at second during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker (23) is tagged out at second during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) hits a foul ball during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) hits a foul ball during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) hits a foul ball during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) hits a foul ball during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) celebrating in the dugout with Andy Pages during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Freddie Freeman (5) celebrating in the dugout with Andy Pages during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrates a run in the dugout during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrates a run in the dugout during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) reacts to a review calling him safe at home plate during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers infielder Alex Freeland (76) reacts to a review calling him safe at home plate during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) returns to the dugout sullenly after being relieved during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.Jessica Cryderman - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Dodgers pitcher Roki Sasaki (11) returns to the dugout sullenly after being relieved during an MLB baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA.

Hundreds of women and girls in Brighton & Hove are now playing rugby on a weekly basis [Bx Webb/Brighton & Hove City Council]A city is aiming to build on the legacy of the Women's Rugby World Cup, after hosting games during the 2025 competition.Brighton & Hove City Council has held rugby-themed activities, with hundreds of local women and girls now playing the sport on a weekly basis.The authority says it wants to build on the legacy created and increase female participation in the sport.The city's Brighton & Hove Stadium hosted two sold out games in the World Cup, including the would-be champions England versus Australia, with crowds also watching on screens erected around the city centre.The authority said more than 2,600 women and girls aged 16 or over engaged with rugby activities throughout the duration of the legacy project, with support from more than 20 different clubs, community groups and local organisations.It says more than 300 women and girls are playing the sport on a regular basis.Sessions included games of tag rugby for schools at Hove Rugby Club and a series of walking rugby events is also planned Bella Sankey, leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said: "Bringing events like the Women's Rugby World Cup to the city has a huge economic benefit and advertises Brighton & Hove to a worldwide audience."The legacy is not just about finding the next Jess Breach or Ellie Kildunne, it is about showing women and girls here in Brighton & Hove that sport is for them and introducing them to the huge benefits being active and part of a team or sporting community brings."Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250. More on this story Fans flock to Brighton for Women's Rugby World CupBusinesses buzzing for Women's Rugby World Cup games Related internet links Brighton & Hove City Council

Miami 305 coach Michael Cooper was getting interviewed after his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLOS ANGELES, - The Big3 had an open practice for al teams on June 19, 2026 at St. Bernard High School in Los Angeles and The Sporting Tribune's Robert Talamantes was there to capture the following TST Images.Detroit Amplifiers Guard Nasir Core was warming up before the start of his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneDetroit Amplifiers Guard Nasir Core was warming up before the start of his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLos Angeles Riot Center threw down a vicious dunk during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Riot Center threw down a vicious dunk during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLos Angeles Riot coach Nick Young was running the teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Riot coach Nick Young was running the teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLos Angeles Riot Center Dwight Howard was going against his teammate in the post during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Riot Center Dwight Howard was going against his teammate in the post during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLos Angeles Riot coach Nick Young was getting interviewed after his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Riot coach Nick Young was getting interviewed after his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaMiami 305 guard Mario Chalmers was getting shots up during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneMiami 305 guard Mario Chalmers was getting shots up during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaHouston Rig Hands center Isaiah Austin was shooting elbow jumpers during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert T Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneHouston Rig Hands center Isaiah Austin was shooting elbow jumpers during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaMiami 305 coach Michael Cooper was getting interviewed after his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneMiami 305 coach Michael Cooper was getting interviewed after his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaLos Angeles Riot Center Dwight Howard went up and finished with a dunk during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Riot Center Dwight Howard went up and finished with a dunk during his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaMiami 305 Forward Michael Beasley wasting his shoes before the start of his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, CaliforniaRobert Talamantes - The Sporting TribuneMiami 305 Forward Michael Beasley wasting his shoes before the start of his teams practice on June 19th, 2026 in Los Angeles, California

Would you travel thousands of miles to go to the Fifa World Cup, even if your country wasn't playing?Neither Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland qualified for the tournament.But that hasn't stopped some football fans making the journey to North America to see some of the world's best teams.BBC News NI has been chatting to some fans about just how far they would go for the love of the game.'It's great to see people from all over the world'Originally from Coleraine, Roger Woodend now lives in Philadelphia.His journey is perhaps shorter than some others, but still involves travelling to a different country - in this instance, Canada - to catch a game. It has become something of a tradition for him and his friend Alex Logan, who is from Ballymoney, but lives in Scotland. Both previously visited Brazil for the 2014 World Cup, a tournament that also didn't feature Northern Ireland, but nevertheless the country has still been represented thanks to the pair's matching green and white jerseys."It is amazing. It's fantastic. It's great to see people from all over the world here supporting their team. It's great to see the Americans embracing it," Woodend said."It's a really good atmosphere, there's a real massive energy around the whole place."Logan agreed that, while football - or soccer to people in the US - may not be the biggest sport in America, "people are getting into it"."It just feels like a proper World Cup atmosphere. I know there's been a lot of concerns about all sorts of different things, but to me, it's just a real normal World Cup."The first match they went to was Canada v Bosnia-Herzegovina at Toronto Stadium, which would have been one of Northern Ireland's games.Woodend said they even bumped into a group of fans who had travelled from Bangor, County Down."It's a shame we didn't make it. I'm hoping that we'll make it to the next one."'A good buzz around the place'Richard Kehoe, a primary school teacher and junior football coach from Newry, is a Republic of Ireland fan. He travelled to the United States with his dad and met up with his brother who now lives in North Carolina.They watched South Africa take on Czech Republic - a fixture that would have been one of Ireland's, had they qualified."We were talking about the possibility of Ireland getting through to the World Cup and travelling over to meet him and one of the games would be in Atlanta, which was only a three or four hour drive away from him. "We decided to go ahead and take the chance and book flights," he said.He added that it was "heartbreaking" when Ireland did not qualify."As the weeks have gone on I'm back excited again just to get over, there'll be a good buzz around the place."Ronan Quinn from Omagh will be visiting Toronto to visit friends who have moved out there.As a "big football fan" he sees it as a "good excuse to go and see the World Cup" as it is "probably a once in a lifetime thing".He has paid about £200 for tickets to see Senegal take on Iraq.Money has been a topic of conversation at this World Cup with several fans telling BBC News that, for some, the cost of attending the tournament has stretched into the thousands.But they said their love of football and the memories they hoped to create eased the sting.And Quinn agrees."I think, you know, for a sporting event. It's not too bad."Jonny Blair is also travelling to Canada, he's hoping the World Cup "buzz" will provide just as much entertainment."We're going to do the fan zone." he said."I've already been to the World Cup twice. I've been to like four World Cup games. I've been to the Euros to watch Northern Ireland men's, Northern Ireland women."So, I've done a lot of major tournament matches and I'm quite happy to sort of catch the buzz and the vibe of people in and around the stadium without having to pay a few hundred quid to get in."I'm not going to miss anything by not being inside the stadium."I don't want to deprive the right for someone from Ghana or Canada of their ticket."He said part of the joy is that tournaments "bring people together in a positive way". "When the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland were together at the Euros, we would bump into each other and have a right laugh. It brings countries together."'Daylight robbery but worth it' - what fans are spending on World Cup'It's very Bond': Fashion experts on the England squad's off-pitch look

Newcastle raid Liverpool in revenge mission after €40m Victor Munoz dealLiverpool have signed Victor Munoz. The Spaniard, 22, becomes Andoni Iraola’s first signing as the Reds’ head coach. Liverpool triggered the €40m release clause in the winger’s Osasuna contract - paving the way for a six-year deal at Anfield.Developments came quickly this week with sporting director Richard Hughes stealing in at the 11th hour to wrap up the transfer.The deal has left Newcastle stunned once again - following on from Liverpool pipping the Geordies to the signing of Hugo Ekitike last summer.Newcastle wanted €40m Munoz dealEddie Howe’s side thought they had a deal done for Munoz - their first choice to replace Anthony Gordon on the left side of their attack.Having laid the groundwork the North East side were expected to capitalise only for Liverpool to pull off a transfer masterclass. The Toon are now frustrated having missed out on Munoz and plan to raid Liverpool for a replacement.Because a report in Caught Offside is claiming that Cody Gakpo is on the Magpies’ list as a Munoz alternative.Cody Gakpo now a target for NewcastleThe Dutchman, 27, has seen his future come into question over recent weeks following the dismissal of Arne Slot as head coach.Without the guarantees of first-team football - and Rio Ngumoha as well as Munoz for competition - £250k per week Gakpo could be forced to look elsewhere.Tottenham and Atletico Madrid are among the teams reported to have expressed interest - with Newcastle now placing Gakpo on their wishlist alongside two more Arsenal forwards in Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.Liverpool weighing up Gakpo sale“They’ve asked Arsenal about Trossard and Martinelli. They also like Cody Gakpo, but the current feeling seems to be that Martinelli could be cheaper,” the report reads.“Nothing’s advanced yet, and Newcastle won’t rush this. They weren’t entirely convinced about meeting Munoz’s release clause, and they’re prepared to wait to find a deal they’re fully convinced strengthens their squad whilst still representing good value for money.”Gakpo sealed a massive contract extension last year meaning Richard Hughes remains in total control over the former PSV captain’s transfer destiny.The club will have no plans to let him go cheaply and a price of around £70m has been discussed.A move could be favourable for Liverpool now that they have got Munoz as well as Ngumoha in place as left-wing options.And any money received for Gakpo can go towards improving the squad in other priority areas - such as right-wing, right-back and central midfield.

Disaster for Barcelona as superstar winger leaves World Cup match with hamstring discomfortBarcelona have been handed an anxious wait after Raphinha was forced off with an apparent injury while representing Brazil in their World Cup encounter against Haiti.The Brazilian winger, who has been one of the standout performers for both club and country over the past year, lasted only the first half before being substituted after suffering discomfort in the back of his right leg. The incident immediately raised concerns, not only within the Brazilian camp but also at Barcelona, where preparations for the new season are already underway.Raphinha’s night ends early after bright startBefore the setback, everything had gone according to plan for Brazil, as the Seleção were comfortably in control of the match and had already established a two-goal advantage.Raphinha played a key role in that strong start, putting the ball into the net, only to be flagged offside. However, the mood changed when the Barcelona forward suddenly went down and required medical attention. The winger immediately appeared concerned as discussions took place with the medical staff on the pitch.Shortly afterwards, the substitution was prepared, and Rayan was introduced in his place.Notably, Raphinha dropped to the ground while holding the back of his right leg before signalling towards the bench. His visible frustration suggested he knew his night was over long before the change was officially made.Medical tests scheduled as Brazil await clarityWhile there is no official diagnosis yet, early indications point towards a muscular problem involving his right hamstring.According to Carrusel Deportivo, the Brazilian international is expected to undergo medical examinations on Saturday, with the results set to determine the severity of the issue.Furthermore, Brazil also issued an official statement after the match, confirming the initial concern. The statement read,“Raphinha felt pain on his right hamstring during the first half vs Haiti.Raphinha was taken off injured. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)“The player has already begun treatment and will undergo a re-evaluation.“When we receive more information, we will notify you.”Although those around the player are awaiting the test results, reports suggest Raphinha himself believes the injury is not serious. Even so, Brazil’s coaching staff and medical department remain cautious given the importance of the tournament.At Barcelona, this is an update that will cause understandable concern given that Raphinha’s 2025/26 season was largely affected by injuries.Hence, an official update from the national team will determine the mood within the club and the Brazil camp.

🚑 CBF confirm Raphinha's medical update, how is he?The Brazilian national team issued the first medical report on Raphinha, who left the field in the first half against Haiti due to an injury. "Raphinha felt pain in his right hamstring during the first half of the match against Haiti. The player has begun treatment and will be reevaluated. We will inform you when we have more information," they said. Brazil still has one group-stage match left against Scotland to determine its future in the World Cup. Will the player make it back in time for the final test to qualify?This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Jose Mourinho to assess young attacking duo before making final decisionReal Madrid’s new manager, Jose Mourinho, is ruthlessly modifying the dressing room to his liking with little to no mercy on existing players.The manager has already overseen wholesale changes in defence, and the midfield is being linked with big signings as well.Logically, the next step is for him and the club to identify players to sell to balance the books. The likes of Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Fran Garcia, Gonzalo Garcia, and even Brahim Diaz have been linked with exits on that front.Two conditional situationsAs reported by Rodra recently, Jose Mourinho has identified two young Real Madrid stars whom he does not want to immediately sell. He has placed their futures in a ‘conditional’ bracket and will take a call after getting a closer look at what they have to offer.Gonzalo Garcia is the second player Mourinho wants to test. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)The two names Mourinho sees in this way are Gonzalo Garcia and Franco Mastantuono, both of whom spent last season in the first team with limited prominence.As matters stand, the coach wants both players to stay in Madrid and begin preseason with him next month. He will only decide on their future after watching them in action firsthand.Critical competitionWhile both Gonzalo and Mastantuono are young and promising, Jose Mourinho clearly has options in higher priority for both positions that the players represent.Gonzalo, who is a natural striker, must directly compete with Kylian Mbappe who is the team’s de facto striker, and Endrick, who is returning from loan and has reportedly impressed the manager.Will Mourinho keep the two youngsters next season? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)Mastantuono, meanwhile, now faces competition from Real Madrid’s new signing Bernardo Silva who is expected to be a regular starter for the club on the right wing.Both players, thus, must not only consider the manager’s decision but also their own lack of minutes if they stay at the club before deciding their future.Neither star is on display at the ongoing FIFA World Cup for their respective nations and will thus be in action for Mourinho only when preseason begins. Their futures will likely be decided towards the end of July.

Football mad Luca Vettese is having a conflicted World Cup.The Lancashire-born businessman of Italian heritage, who is the fourth generation to run his family's ice cream parlour, is still stunned that the Italian team has not made it to the World Cup - for the third time running.The Azzurri are four times winners of the trophy with the last time coming 20 years ago in Germany when they won a penalty shoot 5-3 against the French in the Olympiastadion, Berlin.Yet they last qualified for the competition in 2014 when Brazil were the hosts meaning this is the third World Cup the team has missed."It is unbelievable we've won it so many times but to be missing three in a row is incredible," he said.Vettese added: "I have cousins and relatives back in Italy who still can't come to terms with this."However the keen supporter of Blackpool FC said: "Because I was born and brought up in Blackpool, I also think I can support England but I do feel torn."He consoles himself with the fact he saw Italy win their first trophy since 2006 when they beat England on penalties in the delayed European Championships final.World Cup rebrand"I was lucky to be at Wembley in 2021 for the final when Italy beat England in the Euros - either way I couldn't lose."He added: "Now I've seen Italy win a trophy, I really want England to win this year"The managing director of Notarianni Ice Cream, his family's business which has been running in Blackpool since 1928, has turned the Italian World Cup blues into a tongue-in-cheek social media video.It opens with sepia images of Vettese and his dad lamenting in Italian the team's demise and turns into a fun rebrand."We had a brainstorm with our team and decided on promoting ourselves as Not-Italliani ice cream branding a Panzotta as a barm cake and selling 66s instead of 99s - the customers have loved it."Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. More like this story Glitterballs and ice cream: Memories of seaside town district

Nishan Velupillay was handed a start, but Australia crashed and burned against the United States as the hosts handed them a 2-0 defeat in Seattle.The damage was done before half-time, with an unfortunate deflection off Cameron Burgess finding its own way past his goalkeeper. The second goal followed soon after Alex Freeman rose the highest to head home.CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR BET WITH DAFABETBoth the goals came amid a spell where the Americans were clearly the more dominant side, leaving Australia chasing shadows for long periods of the opening 45 minutes.MORE: World Cup Group D standings 2026: Updated results, table and fixturesHow did Nishan Velupillay perform against USA in FIFA World Cup 2026?Velupillay showed early promise, driving down the left flank before curling an outside-foot effort just past the post. Beyond that flash, though, his influence faded fast.He found himself dragged into defensive duties for most of the half and struggled to offer any outlet whenever Australia briefly got hold of possession. Coach Tony Popovic opted to withdraw him at the break, sending on Connor Metcalfe in his place.MORE: Who is Nishan Velupillay? Indian-origin footballer in Australia's World Cup 2026 squadVeupillay came through Melbourne Victory's youth ranks. He made his senior bow for the national team back in 2024 during a qualifying clash against China, scoring just seven minutes after stepping onto the pitch to help secure a 3-1 win. That moment proved to be the spark for a quick climb up the ranks and ultimately two successive World Cup appearances. MORE: FIFA World Cup schedule 2026: Complete fixture list for tournament View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nishan Velupillay (@nishan.velupillay)What comes next for Australia?Australia won't have long to dwell on the setback. The Socceroos are back in action on Thursday, June 25, when they take on Paraguay in their next Group D outing, looking to get their campaign back on track.DafabetBEST ODDS AND OFFERSCLICK TO BET

A little over 70 years before the current World Cup kicked off, a group of excited factory workers from Coventry were preparing to fly to watch an England side take on Scotland in Glasgow. A photo of 30-odd men waiting to board the plane in April, 1956, has been shared as people reflect on Coventry Airport's 90-year history, following its closure. Among the aircraft engineers from the city's Rolls-Royce factory travelling to Hampden Park, was Stan Aldenton, an England fan, and his best friend Bob Howat, a Scotsman and rival supporter.Stan's son Rob Aldenton, 83, remembers his dad's trip well. "We were waiting for him to come back and tell us about it," he said. "It was quite a big family event."The match, which ended 1-1, was part of the British Home Championship, a tournament between the home nations that began in the 1880s, ending a century later.Aldenton said the aircraft was a Dakota Douglas DC-3 and the flight took a couple of hours. He took a similar trip himself in 1962 to be among more than 130,000 spectators at Hampden, this time travelling from Birmingham. "It was amazing," he said, recalling the large crowds and atmosphere. The photo from 1956 is among possessions he and sister Mary have of their late father, who worked at Rolls-Royce for most of his career, including helping make parts for Concorde. Aldenton owns a gold watch his father was given to mark his 25th anniversary with the firm, having started during World War Two helping to make aircraft parts. Coventry's airport, which opened as Baginton Aerodrome in 1936, closed earlier this month with pop group Take That the last passengers to fly in. It will make way for the GreenPowerPark, a £2.5bn battery and clean energy project, expected to create thousands of jobs. Aldenton, who grew up in the city's Radford area, believes the engineers would have funded their own trip and it would have been a very special day for them. It was the first time his dad, who was then about 47, had flown. "We were all excited as children that he was going to be flying," he said. If you have any photos and memories of Coventry Airport, please share them with BBC Coventry and Warwickshire. Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Related stories Sadness as airport shuts to make way for gigaparkNever Forget: Take That mark airport's final flightThe 'forgotten' model behind Rolls-Royce's Spirit of EcstasyAirport site's £2.5bn redevelopment approvedFrom the Pope to Take That: Coventry Airport in pictures Internet links Coventry Airport

Merih Demiral (3) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Santa Clara, Calif. -- Paraguay defeats the Turkiye, 1-0, at the Levi’s Stadium onJune 19th, 2026 and The Sporting Tribune's John Panganiban was there to capture the following TST Images:Official World Cup soccer balls at a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneOfficial World Cup soccer balls at a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Turkiye fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneTurkiye fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Turkiye fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneTurkiye fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Paraguay fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneParaguay fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Paraguay fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneParaguay fans during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Turkiye, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Gustavo Gomez (15) of Paraguay kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneGustavo Gomez (15) of Paraguay kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Matias Galarza (23) of Paraguay celebrates after a goal during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMatias Galarza (23) of Paraguay celebrates after a goal during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Miguel Almiron (19) of Paraguay during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMiguel Almiron (19) of Paraguay during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Julio Enciso (19) of Paraguay gets past their opponent during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneJulio Enciso (19) of Paraguay gets past their opponent during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Gustavo Gomez (15) of Paraguay upset with the referee during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneGustavo Gomez (15) of Paraguay upset with the referee during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Matias Galarza (23) of Paraguay during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMatias Galarza (23) of Paraguay during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Miguel Almiron (19) of Paraguay fights for the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMiguel Almiron (19) of Paraguay fights for the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Merih Demiral (3) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMerih Demiral (3) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Abdulkerim Bardakci (14) of Turkiye during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneAbdulkerim Bardakci (14) of Turkiye during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Mert Muldur (18) of Turkiye during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMert Muldur (18) of Turkiye during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Arda Guler (8) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneArda Guler (8) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Baris Alper Yilmaz (21) of Turkiye fights for the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneBaris Alper Yilmaz (21) of Turkiye fights for the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Arda Guler (8) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneArda Guler (8) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Merih Demiral (3) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneMerih Demiral (3) of Turkiye kicks the ball during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.Baris Alper Yilmaz (21) of Turkiye hypes up the crowd during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.John Panganiban-The Sporting TribuneBaris Alper Yilmaz (21) of Turkiye hypes up the crowd during a 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Paraguay, Friday June 19th, 2026 in Santa Clara, Calif.

India will lock horns with Afghanistan for the final time in the bilateral series at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday afternoon. With the hosts having already sealed the series with an unbeatable 2-0 cushion, Rohit Sharma, who sat out the previous fixture, will be keen to sign off on a strong note. His case was made easier after stand-in opener Yashasvi Jaiswal managed just four runs in that game.CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR BET WITH DAFABETHarshit Rana, freshly back in the mix, is tipped to feature against Afghanistan, while the team management may rest KL Rahul and hand Ishan Kishan a turn behind the stumps. All-rounder Nitish Reddy is also fit and ready, and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed on Friday that he will play.Add The Sporting News as a preferred news sourceLive ScorecardIndia vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI: Win probability and toss resultToss: Toss to take place at 1 p.m.India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI: Predicted playing XIIndia playing XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill(c), Ishan Kishan(w), Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Prince YadavAfghanistan (Playing XI): Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Ibrahim Zadran, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Darwish Rasooli, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharoti, AM Ghazanfar, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Bilal SamiIndia vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI: Win percentageTeamWin probabilityIND75%AFG25%India vs Afghanistan 3rd ODI: Betting oddsIndia are the favourites to win this match as per Dafa.TeamOddsIND1.10AFG6.80DafabetBEST ODDS AND OFFERSCLICK TO BET

A girls' football team selected from Leeds schools has reached a national final two years after forming. The Leeds Schools Girls U14s is made up of players selected from across the city after more than 70 youngsters took part in trials for one of the 18 places.The girls, who compete at elite national level, will face Knowsley in the English Schools Football Association Champions Cup Plate national final on Sunday.One of the girls said: "I think we can do it because we're a really good team and we all work together and we're all really close."While the Leeds Schools boys' programme has long produced top talent including the likes of Kalvin Phillips and David Batty, the female side was only formed recently to meet growing demand and create a similar pathway for young players.It is the girls' second final of the season after losing to Rotherham in the county-level tournament, the Yorkshire Schools Cup.Head coach Matt Wainwright said the girls had a "real chance" of winning this time."When we played Rotherham we lost to a really late goal and the devastation was there across the players, parents and coaches."But we've had an extra spring in our step since then and they're ready to compete and I'm really optimistic."The final will be played at the Sixways Stadium in Worcester and streamed live on YouTube with commentary. The girls' team is made of youngsters from 11 schools across Leeds and nearly all of them play in the West Riding Girls Football - one of the largest female grassroots football leagues in the country.Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.

Paraguay scored early and then held on to beat Turkey 1-0 at the World Cup on Friday with 10 men after Miguel Almirón became the first player to be sent off at the tournament for covering his mouth in a confrontation.Almirón got his marching orders in first half stoppage time after a video review revealed that he had violated new rules while exchanging words with Turkey player Mert Müldür.The rule was introduced recently to punish racist or other discriminatory incidents on the pitch.Almirón had earlier set up Matias Galarza to score the only goal just over a minute into the match.Paraguay kept their knock-out rounds bid alive with a first victory after losing their opener against the United States and will play Australia for an assured last-32 berth in the group finale next week.Turkey were meanwhile eliminated with a second straight defeat, coupled with the US team's victory against Australia earlier in the day. They are also yet to score at the tournament.Paraguay's victory also means that the US have won Group D ahead of their last game against Turkey.The South Americans had a dream start in Santa Clara when Galarza drilled home into the bottom corner from a distance.Paraguay then defended deep and hoped for counter attacks while Turkey tried to come back.Their best chance came in the 35th minute when a header from Müldür hit the crossbar and then the right post without crossing the line.Some 10 minutes later tempers flared in midfield after a foul and referee Iván Barton of El Salvador went to the pitch-side monitor for a check which revealed that Almirón had covered his mouth briefly while exchanging words with Müldür.Urged by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the rule was introduced after Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt when he insulted Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior in a Champions League match in February.Vinícius Júnior said he was racially abused while Prestianni admitted to a homophobic slur and was banned by UEFA.Turkey fought with one man more after the break but Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved twice from Merih Demiral and then from Can Uzun's point-blank range shot in the 89th.And it was all over for Turkey when Demiral's header went just wide right and a final desperate effort from captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu also missed the target in stoppage time.

Ismael Saibari did not want to comment on a potential transfer to Bayern Munich after scoring again for Morocco at the World Cup on Friday.Saibari was on target in their opening 1-1 draw with Brazil and then also scored the lone goal in a 1-0 victory over Scotland.German champions Bayern are said to be after 25-year-old PSV Eindhoven and he has reportedly already undergone the medical carried out at Morocco's World Cup base.Saibari evaded questions on the transfer with a simple "thank you" while saying he was very happy with his performances."It is the best time of my career because I dreamt of playing for my country at a World Cup since I was a little boy. I have achieved that. Now I have scored two goals for my country. I am simply happy," the forward said.Saibari, who is getting plenty of attention, added: "It is for others to judge whether I’m a revelation at this World Cup."Morocco became the first African team to reach the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, and he said they have big ambitions again this time."We have our goals for which we will fight. We can go a long way," he said.Morocco are tied with Brazil on four points atop Group C and play bottom side Haiti, who are already eliminated, in their final group match next week.

The preliminary agreement, not yet a week old, has sown confusion: nixed Swiss signing ceremonies, rifts with Israel and Congress, and uncertainty over new talks.

The crazy numbers behind Turkey’s exit 🤯Square feet epidemic in Turkey.At daybreak, the entire Turkish people woke up with a hangover.Beaten by Paraguay by the smallest of margins (0-1), Turkey is already heading out of this 2026 World Cup after just two matches.An even more surprising fiasco given that Turkey was seen as the favorite in Group D, but one that is reflected in absolutely dreadful attacking numbers.Across these first two World Cup matches, the Turks simply attempted 62 shots without ever finding the net! Half of those shots, moreover, were taken from outside the penalty area.Even worse, if we go by Expected Goals, Turkey “should” have scored 3.5 goals. With none scored, it has the biggest differential of the 2026 World Cup.That miss by Deniz Gül right at the end of the match is unfortunately a concrete illustration of the Turkish forwards’ finishing problems.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Real Madrid veteran affirms his commitment to the club: ‘Goal is to finish my career here’Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has once again reaffirmed his long-term commitment to the club, revealing that his biggest ambition is to bring his playing career to an end at the Santiago Bernabeu.The Belgian international remains one of the most important figures in the Real Madrid squad and, despite already being under contract until 2027, has said that he sees his future tied to Real Madrid.Courtois has enjoyed a trophy-filled spell since arriving from Chelsea and continues to be regarded as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers. Now, the veteran shot-stopper has openly discussed his plans while also reflecting on the journey that influenced his career.Courtois makes his intentions clearQuestions surrounding Courtois’ long-term future have surfaced in recent months as the goalkeeper enters the latter stages of his career.However, the Belgian has left little room for doubt regarding his ambitions.Courtois wants to retire at Real Madrid. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)Speaking about his future, Courtois admitted that ending his career at Real Madrid would represent the perfect conclusion to his playing days.“For me, Genk is a closed chapter as a player. I think I had a great year there. Genk have some promising young goalkeepers, so I don’t think I’ll be returning there as a player. “If I can finish my career at Real Madrid, that would be my dream and my goal. We’ll see what happens over the next few years.”More to the storyCourtois also explained how his years at the Bernabeu have helped elevate his game to another level.Having experienced Champions League finals, title races and some of football’s highest-pressure occasions, the Belgian believes he is now a more complete goalkeeper than he was earlier in his career.“As a goalkeeper, I’d say the ideal age is between 29 and 34. I missed a year through injury and perhaps that might extend my career a little. “I feel good, I look after myself very well and I’m a more complete goalkeeper. Experience helps too. Courtois is Real Madrid’s dressing room leader. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)“I’ve already spent many years at Real Madrid, dealing with a lot of pressure and playing in many important matches. And that teaches you a lot as well.”Idols growing upThe Belgian also reflected on the goalkeepers who inspired him growing up, revealing that two legendary names – Iker Casillas and Edwin van der Sar – played a major role in influencing his ambitions.Looking back on his childhood influences, Courtois explained,“They were my main role models. My father was a big fan of Preud’homme and often told me what a great goalkeeper he was. “I didn’t experience much of his playing days myself, although I have seen videos, and I know he’s one of the best Belgian goalkeepers in history. “But I grew up watching Iker and Edwin van der Sar more,” he concluded.

Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty ImagesEngland fans in the United States have found one World Cup problem they clearly did not prepare for: the tea.The complaint is funny, but it says plenty about traveling support, tournament routines and British habits meeting Texas reality.England supporters came for soccer, heat, noise and group-stage pressure. They also wanted a proper cup of tea, and that part appears to have gone badly.Photo by MB Media/Getty ImagesEngland fans roast terrible US tea during World Cup tripIn a DAZN BET UK clip, England fans in America joked about the tea situation during their World Cup stay.The most direct response came from one supporter who summed up the local mood with a Texas twist: “We don’t drink tea in Texas, we drink beer.”Another fan blamed the basics rather than the brewing method, saying: “The milk is terrible, so you’re not going to get one.”Others had already moved on to survival drinks. One supporter said: “No tea. No tea. I had a dodgy coffee for breakfast, but no tea.”When asked where to find a decent cup, another answer was beautifully blunt: “I haven’t got a clue.”Nobody was pretending this was a major tournament crisis. It was a familiar fan complaint sharpened by distance, heat and the discovery that tea is not treated like a public service in America.England supporters in Texas bring World Cup culture clashThe tea complaints came as England fans followed their team through the 2026 World Cup in the United States.England opened their Group L campaign against Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a setting that naturally pushed supporters toward beer, bars and air-conditioned spaces.That is why the coffee mentions matter. Fans were not just mocking bad tea; they were adapting to American routines while still measuring everything against home comforts.This version fits the social media age better. A small cultural irritation becomes a viral fan moment because it is specific, harmless and instantly understandable.England have bigger problems to solve on the pitch, but their supporters have already found one off it. In Texas, a proper cup of tea might be harder to find than a cold beer.Read more:Ismael Saibari equals Mo Salah World Cup record within two minutes of Scotland vs MoroccoWorld Cup TV presenter resigns after causing outrage with Lionel Messi commentsWorld Cup finalist Rafael Van der Vaart apologises for racial slur during TV coverage

Ben Watkins and Oliver Smee are set to take on the Yukon 1000 race next month [Mission Memory]A pair of twenty year olds are set to become the youngest ever duo to take part in the world's longest kayak race.Oliver Smee, from Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire, and Ben Watkins, from Marlow in Buckinghamshire, will paddle a 1,000 miles (1,600km) through the Canadian and Alaskan wilderness next month.The Yukon 1000 will see the Smee and Watkins kayak for 18 hours a day for up to 10 days, all whilst having to plot their own route and be completely self-sufficient.The best friends are both taking on the challenge to raise money for charities that have supported their grandparents in recent years, including Race Against Dementia."Our why is the most important part of what we're doing," Watkins said."To be honest, if we're going to finish this thing, that will be the reason why we finish."The pair are the youngest to ever take on the race, which is the world's longest [Mission Memory]The pair are hoping to raise £10,000 for various charities, including Sue Ryder - which supported two of Smee's grandparents before their deaths last year."Both of them [were] incredibly influential people to my life," he said of his grandma and step-grandfather, who died in September and December 2025."Sue Ryder were the people that were helping them out the entire time - the fact that they were willing to put in so much and not really ask for anything in return is incredible.""It's just nice now to be able to raise money for something that I'm so appreciative of."They are taking part to raise money for charities which have supported their grandparents [Mission Memory]Similarly, Watkins is racing in memory of his deceased grandfather and for his Grandma Evie - who currently has dementia."She's still with us in the capacity that dementia provides - it's the most horrific illness ever," he said."I always refer to our boat as a hard place to sit because it's agony, but the two hardest places I've ever sat are next to my grandfather when he was passing, and next to my grandmother when she's going through her fight against dementia.""In that process, when you're sat next to someone who you share so much in common with and you're watching them slip away, you learn a lot about yourself.""So much of what I am is what they've given me."They are hoping to raise £10,000 [Mission Memory]They are now gearing up to put that motivation into practice, as they get ready to take on the expedition.Smee said the idea to apply for the race came whilst preparing for a smaller challenge, a 125-mile overnight race from Devizes, in Wiltshire, to Westminster.Initially, they signed up for the shorter version of the Yukon, which is only 400 miles, before Smee's family gave the pair an idea."I brought Ben over to my dad's house, and he [Watkin's dad] said: 'Oh why would you do the 400 - you should go for it and do the 1000'."So Ben goes off and puts in an application, then we get an interview somehow, then we get accepted somehow, so now we're here."They beat out more than 6,000 applicants to be selected for the race with only 30 teams taking part in the challenge.The challenge will see the duo kayak for 18 hours a day [Mission Memory]Smee said the pair had been kayaking "on and off" for the past two or three years before "really starting to take it seriously" last September."Taking it seriously to us is really an all-or-nothing situation - so I think we've been doing up to 150km (93 miles) a week since then."During the race they are set to encounter sleep deprivation the threat of bears and adverse weather conditions.But the biggest concern raised by Smee was that he would have to share a boat for 10 days with his best friend: "I don't know how I feel about that."On the other hand, he said he was looking forward to seeing the "really unique" landscape through which they will traverse: "At stages of the race it will look like the moon."The river will be a mile-wide at places, maybe even larger, which to a European and English person on the River Thames that just doesn't make any sense."During the race, the pair will have to traverse the Yukon River - including the Five Finger Rapids [Getty Images]The pair will be the youngest to ever take on the challenge, which Watkins said was "an honour"."The Yukon is a special race for us because it's a race of generations - it's an old timers race," he said."The younger you are, usually the better the stronger the faster you are - but this race turns that on its head."We're less experienced and we've got more gumption in that boat than any other team there but we're fighting against an uphill battle, because we've really got to just hone our minds."He added that the pair were "quite literally" the race's underdogs.Smee and Watkin's attempt at the Yukon 1000 race begins on 10 July in Whitehorse, Canada, and the pair hope it will conclude at the Dalton Highway Bridge in Alaska 10 days later. More on this story Duo raise £50,000 in 'world's longest paddle race'Daring duo complete wilderness canoe challengeTeam's Canadian canoe challenge raises £108k Related internet links Yukon 1000

Reason provided for Man United’s unusual start to Premier League seasonManchester United have discovered when they will face their Premier League rivals next season.StartUnited will travel to newly promoted Hull City on 22nd August.They will kick off their home campaign against another newly promoted side, Ipswich Town, on 29th August.The next three fixtures will see United take on Everton, Manchester City, and Fulham.United’s final three league matches of the season will see them play Leeds United at home and travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.They will finish the 2026/2027 season by welcoming Fulham to Old Trafford.RequestThe Sun newspaper reports that United made a request to the Premier League to play their first match of the season away from Old Trafford.The paper states that, “Manchester United requested to play their first Premier League fixture next season away from Old Trafford due to extensive work on the Old Trafford pitch.”The Red Devils have not started a new season away since facing Bournemouth in 2016, which was Jose Mourinho’s first league match in charge of the club.United welcomed eventual champions Arsenal to Old Trafford last season to kick off the 2025/2026 campaign.The paper adds that, “ground staff have dug up the Old Trafford pitch for the first time since 2012 and will also install new safety measures.”This means United now have around 10 weeks to get the pitch in tip-top state before they welcome the Tractor Boys to Old Trafford on 29th August.United have faced criticism in the past for the elevated nature of their pitch and the brickwork in front of the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand.It is thought that Benjamin Sesko’s injury against Liverpool at the start of last month was aggravated by tumbling off the steeper pitch.United's opening PL fixturesFeatured image by Alex Livesey/Getty Imagesonline pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social