NBA insider Marc J. Spears recently weighed in on the Kyrie Irving trade speculation with the Dallas Mavericks. According to Spears, he expects the former Blue Devil to stay with the Mavericks for at least the beginning of the year. "I do think he'll be back on the roster," Spears said. "I know their owner is really, really high on seeing him and Cooper Flagg play together. And then Masai Ujiri had said in his introductory press conference that he wanted to see that as well."After Irving was sidelined for the entire 2025-26 campaign due to an ACL tear, Duke fans now seem likely to see two of their former No. 1 overall draft picks share the court together. With only six No. 1 overall picks in the school's history, two of them pairing up will be a first for Blue Devils supporters.This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: NBA insider puts trade rumors involving Duke's Kyrie Irving to rest

Team Ohtani has a brand new member.Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani announced on social media Sunday, June 20, that his wife Mamiko Tanaka has given birth to their second child."We are again overjoyed to experience this wonderful day in our lives together," Ohtani wrote in a post on Instagram. "Thank you for being born safely."We would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us throughout this journey."View this post on InstagramA post shared by Shohei Ohtani | 大谷翔平 (@shoheiohtani)Ohtani was not in the Dodgers lineup for Friday's series opener against the Baltimore Orioles. Shortly afterward the team announced he was taking paternity leave.However, the team issued a statement saying he's expected to return "sometime this weekend."Ohtani previously went on paternity leave last April when his wife delivered their first child, a daughter. The couple did not reveal any information about their new baby.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, wife announce birth of second baby

Jerry Jones will absolutely love the offense vs. defense rivalry brewing in Cowboys practice originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.A year ago, the Dallas Cowboys' defense was an absolute liability, surrendering a staggering 30.1 points per game and costing defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus his job. While the offense did its part by ranking near the top of the league, the defense failed to play a lick of situational football. Looking to spark a total identity shift, Dallas spent the offseason hiring 34-year-old Christian Parker to install a fiery, Vic Fangio-based defensive scheme. Through OTAs and mandatory minicamp, a noticeable shift has taken over the facility and it is exactly the kind of competitive edge Jerry Jones has been searching for.At the center of this transformation is obviously Parker, who has not only installed a brand-new playbook but is also actively talking trash to the offense while doing it.Head coach Brian Schottenheimer confirmed it, admitting he is facing a hard time cracking the defense that Parker installed. "I would say the shit-talking from Christian Parker is a little different than what we had last year," Schottenheimer said, per Tommy Yarrish of the Cowboys' official website. "The guys feed off of it in a good way. It's been fun to watch him stir up CeeDee [Lamb], George [Pickens] and Dak, and I think we are in a really good spot," he added. Under Eberflus, the defense was predictable, and opponents picked it apart. Parker changed that by using disguised coverages and complex pre-snap looks that force the offense to earn every yard. The unit has a completely different attitude now. The best evidence of that came from Lamb himself, who did not mince words when asked about preparing against Parker's unit during OTAs."It's annoying," Lamb told Jon Machota of The Athletic. "It's been annoying to prepare against. It's very tricky, but as an offense, we've just got to play fast and get to our spots."Jones built this franchise on the idea that winning the offseason sets up a deep January run. Through minicamp, his new defensive coordinator is already making life uncomfortable for an offense that used to be untouchable. That is exactly what Jones paid for.More NFL news: Tua Tagovailoa's latest season answered one lingering question about his successPanthers' $45 million linebacker gamble hinges on one important questionChristian Parker's message on Caleb Downs should terrify NFL offensesCowboys breathe easier after Dak Prescott update as backfield battle heats upJerry Jones faces unwelcome advice as 6× Pro Bowler urges George Pickens to take different route

The patrols have helped push cartels and smugglers into more remote areas. But analysts have voiced concerns that the border missions will distract from training, drain resources and undermine readiness.

Ireland captain Caelan Doris will miss July's Nations Championship matches with Australia, Japan and New Zealand with a foot injury. Back row Doris was forced off in the early stages of Leinster's United Rugby Championship final win over the Bulls at Croke Park on Friday.Leinster wing Tommy O'Brien has also been ruled out of the three summer matches with a groin injury. Ulster duo Bryn and Zac Ward have been called up in place of the injured duo, while hooker Dan Sheehan will captain Ireland in the absence of Doris. Andy Farrell's side fly to Sydney on Monday ahead of the Nations Championship opener with Australia on 4 July. Ireland then take on Japan on 11 July and New Zealand at Eden Park the following week in the other summer fixtures.Losing both Doris and O'Brien is a blow for Farrell, who is also without fly-half Jack Crowley and key prop Andrew Porter.The Ward brothers have been rewarded for an impressive campaign with Ulster, who reached the Challenge Cup final but missed out on the top eight in the United Rugby Championship.The inclusion of the Ward brothers brings Ulster representation in Farrell's squad up to 10 players. More to follow.

🎥 Houston, there’s a horse in the hallway! Oranje fans at it againA wise Dutchman once said: "We Dutch always have fun." And he definitely wasn’t entirely wrong. Ahead of the second group match against Sweden, Houston police estimates said that nearly 30,000 Oranje fans took part in the fan march toward the stadium. The atmosphere was outstanding hours before kickoff. Of course, a few Oranje legends were there again as well. Wesley Sneijder and Edwin van der Sar celebrated with the masses in orange. It almost goes without saying that things once again went from left to right. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

🚨 Koeman tweaks attack, Sweden full strength: XIs for Netherlands-SwedenThe Netherlands and Sweden are weighing their chances of moving on to the next round today at Houston Stadium. Ronald Koeman’s side, after drawing their opening match against Japan, are under all the pressure. Today’s match at Houston, Texas will be played with these confirmed lineups:Netherlands: Verbruggen; Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Van de Ven, Dumfries; Gravenberch, Reinjders, De Jong, Gakpo, Brobbey and Malen.Koeman makes just one change from the starting XI in the first match, giving Brobbey the nod over Summerville. Sweden: Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Lindelof, Hien, Gudmunsson, Bernhardsson; Nygren, Kallstrom, Ayari; Isak and Gyokeres.Graham Potter sticks with the same starting XI that won on matchday one.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

World Cup 2026: Netherlands vs Sweden – Malen, Dumfries, Hien & Karlstrom startThe Netherlands vs Sweden is the first World Cup match of the day, as Group F gets underway in the second round of fixtures; the Swedes topping the group so far after their emphatic 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their opener.The Dutch, meanwhile, were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw with Japan that came alive in the second half, but leaves them needing to win today if they have any hope of topping the group.Roma striker Donyell Malen starts up front once again for Ronald Koeman’s team, whilst outgoing Inter right-back Denzel Dumfries features in defence.Meanwhile, Atalanta’s Isak Hien and Udinese’s Jesper Karlstrom both start once again for Sweden.On the bench, Atalanta’s Marten de Roon, Juventus man Teun Koopmeiners and Napoli-owned forward Noa Lang all sit for the Netherlands.HOUSTON, TEXAS – JUNE 20: General view before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match between Netherlands vs Sweden at Houston Stadium on June 20, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)World Cup 2026: Netherlands vs Sweden – LineupsNetherlands: Verbruggen, Van de Ven, Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Dumfries; Reijnders, De Jong, Gravenberch; Gakpo, Malen, BrobbeySweden: Nordfeldt; Lindelof, Hien, Lagerbielke; Gudmundsson, Ayari, Karlstrom, Bernhardsson; Nygren; Isak, Gyokeres

Four players that Arsenal could sell this summerThere could be an exodus of players from Arsenal this summer, with Fichajes revealing that at least four of their stars are expected to leave the club.The Gunners finally won the league title for the first time in two decades and also reached the Champions League final, where they were beaten by PSG.There is little doubt that Arsenal are now considered one of the top teams in Europe, and they are determined to remain at the highest level, which could require further improvements to their squad during this transfer window.Arsenal Planning Squad ChangesArsenal intend to continue strengthening the team, and the report claims they are prepared to replace some current players as part of their ongoing rebuild under Mikel Arteta.According to the report, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Ethan Nwaneri, and Christian Norgaard are all expected to leave the club this summer as Arsenal reshape the squad ahead of next season.The Gunners are understood to be planning significant investment in new signings, and player sales could become an important part of raising the funds needed to complete those deals.Departures Could Fund New SigningsThe departure of academy graduates such as Nwaneri would also represent pure profit for Arsenal, which could provide the club with additional financial flexibility in the transfer market.However, Arsenal are unlikely to wait for outgoing transfers before making moves for their priority targets because delaying negotiations could allow rival clubs to secure those players first.The club are expected to act quickly in the market as they attempt to maintain momentum following a highly successful campaign domestically and in Europe.It will be interesting to see how much Arsenal can generate through player sales once the transfer window becomes more active, especially given the level of interest several members of the squad could attract from clubs across Europe._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsTwo Spots Arsenal wants to strengthen this summer 20 June 2026, 15:00Arsenal target sends stunning World Cup message 20 June 2026, 13:30Arsenal actively preparing an offer for double Champions League winner 20 June 2026, 12:00

For the second time in two days, Lebanon was again at the center of whether the fragile U.S.-Iran deal would hold.

On Thursday, Michigan football added an excellent piece to the 2027 class, with Fort Wayne (Ind.) Northrop four-star edge rusher Ifeanyi Emedobi pledged to the Wolverines. But what does the 6-foot-2, 214-pound pass rusher bring to the table?Emedobi is coming off his first year playing high school football and yet managed a self-reported 50 tackles, 19 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. Even after just one year, his upside is apparent, and he's drawing a lot of comparisons to former Wolverines pass rusher Josh Uche, who thrived despite having similar measurables. We checked out his highlight tape, and here were our takeaways.Has exceptional speed, leaving many offensive linemen in the dust as he breezes past themGiven his speed, has excellent get-off at the snapHasn't showcased much in the way of moves beyond utilizing his speed as of yet, but given that he's new to football, he has plenty of time to develop other methods of pass rushingTakes good angles and is instinctive in getting to the footballHis lack of size mixed with his speed allows him to get underneath offensive tacklesRelentless pursuit to the football, even when the play passes him byAccording to 247Sports' Andrew Ivins, Emedobi ran a 4.48-second 40-yard dash and has a 37.7-inch vertical leap. Here is the full listing of the current commitments in the 2027 class, using the Rivals Industry Ranking:Kalamazoo (Mich.) Loy Norrix four-star OT Jakari Lipsey (No. 95 overall)Chicago (Ill.) Mount Carmel four-star WR Quentin Burrell (No. 101 overall)Houston (Tx.) South four-star DL Xavier Muhammad (No. 106 overall)Salt Lake City (Utah) West four-star QB Kamden Lopati (No. 132 overall)Chicago (Ill.) Mount Carmel four-star S Tavares Harrington (No. 134 overall)Muskegon (Mich.) four-star EDGE Recarder Kitchen (No. 157 overall)Jackson (Miss.) Brandon four-star RB Tyson Robinson (No. 213 overall)Katy (Tx.) Tompkins four-star CB Blake Jenkins (No. 262 overall)Fort Wayne (Ind.) Northrop four-star EDGE Ifeanyi Emedobi (No. 265 overall)Lawrenceville (N.J.) School four-star TE Colt Lumpris (No. 273 overall)Riverside (Calif.) Notre Dame four-star CB Darius Johnson (No. 316 overall)Indianapolis (Ind.) four-star EDGE Jayce Brewer (No. 378 overall)Gatineau (Quebec) Brook Hill three-star IOL Sidney Rouleau (No. 459 overall)Buford (Ga.) three-star LB Brayden Watson (No. 500 overall)Saline (Mich.) three-star IOL Louis Esposito (No. 720 overall)Orlando (Fla.) Lake Nona three-star S Charles Woodson Jr. (No. 745 overall)Grand Rapids (Mich.) Kenowa Hills three-star ATH Lundon Hampton (No. 838 overall)This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Scouting report on Michigan football 4-star EDGE commit Ifeanyi Emedobi

San Francisco Giants hat The New York Yankees have pretty much all that they need to go on a deep run this season. New York has the best starting rotation in baseball, solid offensive weapons all over the place, and at some point Aaron Judge will return. This is a team that can make a run and maybe even take down the Los Angeles Dodgers. But they shouldn't take their foot off the gas. The trade deadline is going to be here in August and the Yankees should be looking to add. With the rotation as good as it is, they don't need to add there. A bullpen piece would be the most logical way for New York to improve. But if the right bat is out there, you should never close any doors. One thing that was interesting is that while breaking down various landing spots for San Francisco Giants trade chips, Bleacher Report's Zachary Rymer called the Yankees the "wildest" potential landing spot for three-time All-Star Luis Arraez."Wildest Landing Spot: New York Yankees," Rymer wrote. "Jazz Chisholm Jr. took some heat in April, but he's come on strong with an .800 OPS since May 1. He has second base under control for the Yankees."But Chisholm can also play third base, where Ryan McMahon has the team swimming in replacement-level waters. If a different third baseman isn't forthcoming, trading for Arraez and moving Chisholm to third might be New York's best play."Do you have a take to get off your chest? Do you want to engage in a growing Yankees community? Comment on our content alongside staff and fans alike!If the Yankees could get Arraez's bat into the lineup, it would be worth shaking up the infield defensively. He's batting .321 right now and has also been excellent defensively. Should the Yankees try to make a move? Poll: Would you want to see this trade?More MLB: Dodgers Predicted To Snatch $19 Million All-Star From Tigers

New Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade Idea Sees Celtics, Heat Both Miss Out On Him originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Celtics and Miami Heat have been the two teams most heavily linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo in trade rumors, but surely they are not the only teams interested.Every team in the NBA would welcome a two-time MVP to their team, but it comes down to the Milwaukee Bucks' asking price. They want a haul of young players and picks, and it's not unjustified, given the level of player Antetokounmpo is. Can a different team actually pay the price it takes?Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus proposed this trade that would see the Orlando Magic acquire Antetokounmpo after making the playoffs in each of the last three seasons:Bucks receive: Franz Wagner, Tristan da Silva, Jase Richardson, Goga Bitadze, Jonathan Isaac, Noah Penda and 2033 first-round pickMagic receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Gary Trent Jr., Jericho Sims and Andre Jackson Jr.The Magic have been eliminated in the first round of the playoffs in each of the last three seasons. Adding Antetokounmpo could help them get over the hump."It's not complicated. The Magic add one of the NBA's best players to play alongside 2022 No. 1 overall pick Paolo Banchero," wrote Pincus on Saturday. "While the pairing with Wagner has helped the Magic become a playoff regular for the last three seasons, the franchise hasn't advanced past the first round since the Dwight Howard era in 2010. The Bucks might prefer Banchero in the deal, but the Magic seem fully committed to the Duke forward."Meanwhile, the Bucks would get a great player in Wagner, who they could build around. This deal is light on draft picks, so the Bucks would really have to love the players they are getting."In addition to Wagner, almost 25, the team brings in bright prospects in da Silva, Richardson, and Penda," wrote Pincus. "Bitadze is a solid backup center capable of starting in stretches. Milwaukee would waive and stretch Isaac's salary over seven years at $1.3 million per season. That's just under the 15 percent max limit based on a $165 million salary cap, considering the Bucks have $22.5 million going to Damian Lillard for several seasons."More NBA: ESPN Analyst, Former Celtics NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins Lands New Job

NEW DELHI: Prasidh Krishna and Rohit Sharma scripted a rare piece of ODI history as India made a dream start against Afghanistan in the third and final ODI at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday.After Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi won the toss and chose to bat, Prasidh struck with the very first ball of the innings. The right-arm pacer dismissed in-form opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz for 5, with Rohit Sharma taking a sharp catch at first slip.Gurbaz pushed at a delivery outside off stump and edged it straight to Rohit, giving India an early breakthrough.Prasidh continued to trouble the Afghan batters with his disciplined line and length. In the sixth over, he struck again, this time removing Rahmat Shah for 5. Once again, Rohit was the catcher.Rahmat tried to work a back-of-a-length delivery towards the leg side but only managed a leading edge, which was safely pouched by Rohit.The Prasidh-Rohit combination completed a hat-trick of catches in the eighth over. Ibrahim Zadran became the third victim when he attempted to drive away from his body and edged the ball to first slip, where Rohit completed his third catch of the innings.All three wickets fell in remarkably similar fashion, with Prasidh finding the outside edge and Rohit doing the rest in the slips.The feat also created a unique record in India's ODI history.For the first time in India's 1,078 ODI matches, the same bowler-fielder combination accounted for the first three wickets of an innings.While there have been previous instances of a fielder taking three catches off the same bowler in an ODI for India, none had come for three consecutive wickets, let alone the first three dismissals of the innings.Three catches by a fielder off a bowler in ODIs for IndiaVVS Laxman off Irfan Pathan vs Zimbabwe, Perth, 2004Shikhar Dhawan off Jasprit Bumrah vs Bangladesh, Dubai, 2018Rohit Sharma off Prasidh Krishna vs Afghanistan, Chennai, 2026India are leading the three-match ODI series 2-0. 131876887

Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty ImagesTiger Woods is unquestionably one of the two greatest golfers to have ever graced the game.Many argue that he is actually the greatest, despite the fact that he finished three majors short of Jack Nicklaus’ record 18 major championship wins.Woods won a record 82 PGA Tour events, including 15 majors.Tiger Woods broke almost every record in the professional game, and had he avoided serious injury throughout his career, he would have almost certainly surpassed Nicklaus’ tally of 18 majors.Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty ImagesHowever, Woods has endured plenty of criticism throughout his career.And Brandel Chamblee has now laid the blame for some of the poor behavior we see from modern day stars at the feet of the 50-year-old.Brandel Chamblee says Tiger Woods is to blame for poor behavior from some golfersWhen speaking on Golf Channel’s Live From The US Open, Chamblee embarked on a lengthy rant about some of the poor behavior he has witnessed from the stars of today on the golf course.And he highlighted how he believes Tiger Woods is the reason why so many of today’s top stars feel as though it’s okay to use profanity and throw clubs on the course.“I never saw Jack Nicklaus throw a club I never heard him yell, an F-bomb. Never heard him yell a profane word on the golf course. He hit a bad shot, you’d hear him go, ‘Ah, Jack’,“ Chamblee said.“Never saw Palmer throw a club, never heard him yell at F-bomb. Same with Tom Watson.“Pick your player. Never saw Greg Norman with all those bad losses he had, never saw him throw a club. Never heard an F-bomb from him.“Say what you want about Phil Mickelson. I never saw Phil Mickelson throw a club, or yell an F-bomb.“You know, the same’s not true of Tiger Woods?“Tiger Woods the greatest player ever. We all love him. Everybody got rich off of him, but he was one of the most profane golfers to ever play the game.“And everybody who’s playing now grew up watching him. These are Tiger’s progeny, if you will.“And it rains F-bombs on the PGA Tour. Clubs get thrown all the time. Tee markers get destroyed.Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images“The players have all the power in the world.“I always thought you would get fined for profanity on the PGA Tour, but I guess not, because when you watch, it’s just F-bomb after F-bomb after F-bomb.“Jon Rahm missed a putt and said, you know, screamed the F-word, loud as he could.“Brandel Chamblee insists golfing stars have a responsibilityChamblee suggested that it is lazy when some of the biggest stars allow their tempers to get the better of them.“I’m no prude. You know, I’ve played golf. I understand how crazy it gets,“ he explained.“But not that I was on TV a lot. These guys are. They are videotaped everywhere they go, and TV is everywhere, so they have, I would say, a bigger burden than you and I would have had, no doubt about it.“But with that burden comes unimaginable wealth. It goes with the scrutiny, and composure is a skill. It’s a skill.“It is lazy to throw clubs, and it is lazy to drop F-bombs, when you know the whole world is watching.“By the way, you could be watching with your kids. You take your kids out to watch a golf tournament and F-bombs raining everywhere?“It’s great that this code of conduct has been passed. It is great that it’s sending a message to the players.“What Sergio did at Augusta National? I think that kind of sent a message. I think everybody kind of drew a line in the sand last year at the U.S. Open.“A combination of Wyndham Clark and Rory tearing up a tee marker, et cetera, et cetera.“These guys have just run amok, and I think it’s great that the code of conduct is put in place.“

A lawsuit filed in California claims the automaker’s philanthropic arm stole technology intended to help poor farmers, but it is not clear to what end.

Down held off a Fermanagh fightback to win a thrilling Tailteann Cup semi-final by 2-19 to 1-21 at Croke Park.Eamon Brown and Pat Haveron scored first-half goals as Conor Laverty's side held a 2-3 to 1-8 advantage at the break.Led by the impressive Ultan Kelm, Fermanagh roared back and levelled the game inside the final 10 minutes. However, Ryan McEvoy struck the decisive point with three minutes left and Down are now one game away from becoming the first side to win the Tailteann Cup for the second time.The 2024 winners will face either Wicklow or Offaly, who are co-managed by Mickey Harte, in the final.The winners of the Tailteann Cup earn a place in the top-tier of the All-Ireland for 2027.Game of two halvesDown made a strong start as goalkeeper Ronan Burns landed a two-pointer inside two minutes, and 60 seconds later Brown fisted into the bottom corner to round off a flowing counter attack. Points from Conor Love and Darragh McGurn got Fermanagh on the board, and Mattie McDermott slotted into the bottom corner to put one point between the sides.In front of a small crowd at Croke Park, the sides exchanged scores before Daniel Guinness, Brown and Caolan Doherty all landed points for Down to push the favourites further clear. McDermott brought the gap back down to three with a free, but Fermanagh were helpless as Odhran Murdock's two pointer and Brown's point all flew over the bar.Things got even better for Down when Havern, who had also landed a two-pointer, spun and found the top corner for a second goal for the Mourne County.With McDermott the focus of their attack, Fermanagh rallied at the end of the half but Down held a seven-point advantage at the break. Kelm landed a two-pointer for Fermanagh after the restart before Love, McGurn and Ciaran Corrigan made it a two-point game, as Down were punished for being wasteful at the other end. Miceal Rooney finally got the Mourne County on the board after the restart but Kelm hit straight back for Fermanagh.Sean McNally pulled off a big save from Brown as the game began to open up, and Callum Rogers fired over the rebound to restore Down's three-point margin.Caolan Mooney landed a point shortly after coming off the bench, but Love's two-pointer reduced the margin back down to two. Havern hit back for Down, but another two-pointer from Kelm and Corrigan's point levelled the game heading into the final 10 minutes. Mooney and Ronan McCaffrey exchanged scores as the sides remained tied, but McEvoy's point with three minutes remaining was enough to get Down over the line. "We knew Fermanagh were going to bring it," goalscorer Brown said on RTE."We've been in these positions before so we dug deep and were able to get over the line."

Arsenal loanee trains alone as transfer talks continueThe midfielder wants to return to Hamburg for pre-season, but their reported budget remains well below the option agreed in his loan deal.Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty ImagesFabio Vieira is working with a personal trainer while Arsenal and Hamburg continue talks over his future following his successful loan spell in Germany.The 26-year-old missed out on representing Portugal at the World Cup, despite finishing the season as Hamburg’s leading scorer with seven goals, but he reportedly remains keen to return to the club.Negotiations, however, over a permanent transfer are expected to take time, not least because of the difference between what Arsenal want and what the Germans can afford to pay.Vieira’s loan included an option to buy for around €20m to €22m. Hamburg are reportedly able to pay only close to €10m in instalments, a figure Arsenal are not prepared to accept at present.Their record transfer outlay currently stands at €14m and they have paid €10m or more for a player just four times.Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty ImagesThe midfielder is currently valued at €18m, while Arsenal paid €35m to sign him. With a large difference between Hamburg’s reported budget and the price agreed in the loan deal, his next move remains a mystery.According to Bild, both clubs are working towards a permanent transfer, but no agreement is close. Vieira would prefer to report for Hamburg’s pre-season performance tests on July 6 and 7, rather than wait for Arsenal’s preparations that begin later.In the meantime, he is working with a private trainer at the Boost Campus run by former professional Claudio Borges, to maintain his fitness.Photo by Lars Baron/Getty ImagesVieira’s seven goals made him an important player for Hamburg, but, as expected when the loan was agreed, the financial terms remain the main obstacle to a permanent deal.Arsenal have little reason to accept an offer significantly below both his current valuation and the option agreed when the loan was arranged, particularly not when there are also rumours of Premier League interest.Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

[SNS]Ian McCall has described new Rangers manager Derek McInnes as a "total control freak" and expects him to be "hands on" in how the club is run.Having led Hearts to within minutes of the title last season, McInnes was this week appointed Ibrox boss after Danny Rohl's move to Red Bull Salzburg. It is McInnes' sixth club as a manager.And former Rangers midfielder McCall told BBC Sportsound: "Derek McInnes, I think, as the new manager - I hope he doesn't mind me saying - is a total control freak. He'll want to be in control of all the things that are going on."He wants his hands on everything. I do think that Derek is very, very hands on in all aspects of management."He's exactly what they're looking for. They need a manager and that's what Derek is. The way he manages best is he likes to have a print on all over the club."The biggest thing he's got to get right is who he signs. His signing record is very good. He won't be scared of it. There is no chance he'll be scared of it. He'll embrace it all."Retired midfielder Andy Halliday played for Rangers from 2015-20 and later turned out for Hearts.And he sees need for further significant change at Ibrox this summer."It'll interesting in terms of recruitment," said Halliday. "They have so much work to do. I still think they've got glaring holes within their squad."However, Halliday believes Rangers are "already in a stronger position" after recruiting Lawrence Shankland and appointing McInnes, both from Hearts."It gives them a stronger edge than if it was Danny Rohl," Halliday said."It's almost been 10 years in the making. How many times has McInnes been linked with the Rangers job? It's probably been the best time for McInnes and I think it's been the best time for Rangers."He's been a part of the club before, he obviously lives in Scotland, he knows what it's all about."It's a positive appointment. "They're already in a stronger position going into next season."Lawrence Shankland's the best striker in the country and they've got him as well."

It was gritty rather than glorious but the Northampton Saints won’t care. For the second time in three seasons, let this most talented of teams be crowned champions of England, outlasting Exeter Chiefs and the rest in a marathon season that reached a weary yet wonderful end.Much like against Bath two years ago, it could not be said that Saints saved their best for the final but Phil Dowson’s side still found a way. This was a title not so much merited on the performance on the day but for the body of work across a campaign in which Northampton have set the pace. Two titles feels right for a fine crop of local lads who have risen up together – and while they bade farewell to club captain George Furbank in some style as he hoisted the trophy aloft, the rest remain to search for more as the defining English side of their golden generation.Credit to Exeter for what they brought to the season and this occasion, which possessed a phsyicality and ferocity that the Prem has too often lacked of late, but the worthiness of the winners could not really be in doubt. The sprinkle of stardust proved necessary for Northampton on a day lacking in their trademark flow, from Tommy Freeman’s intelligent injections out of the backfield to the colossus Alex Coles, who went striding through spaces open and tight as both carthorse and thoroughbred. Henry Pollock was understated and unabated, still winning jackal penalties at the last to make the game safe. (Getty)The occasion was given a heavyweight fight feel by the introduction of American ring announcer David Diamante, a bundle of energy and hair to invite the crowd in. The trend on this super-sized weekend of rugby finals had been decisive knockout blows: Leinster beating the Bulls 36-7 to claim the United Rugby Championship crown, the Hurricanes putting 60 points on the Chiefs of Waikato to romp to Super Rugby Pacific glory. The first punch was landed by Northampton – although it could be said that Exeter rather presented their chin. A stab through from Archie McParland did not look particularly problematic for either Olly Woodburn or Immanuel Feyi-Waboso to deal with; the fact that each tried to created an issue. The pair came up grasping each other and neither the ball, and Freeman was all to happy to pick up the pieces.It was a rough start for Exeter. They lost their first two lineouts and then a hooker with Max Norey injured – but Northampton invited them into the game. It was a tale of two offloads: Freeman foolish in tossing blindly from the touchline, Len Ikitau intuitive to find Campbell Ridl thereafter and allow the wing to dash for the line. Campbell Ridl scored for Exeter (Getty)An injury to Archie McParland, helped off after a desperate attempt to deny the try, made it welcome that Alex Mitchell was fit to return to the Northampton bench. The replacement scrum half would have to go 70 minutes, though, after a month out, and contributed to a scruffy start from his side. He and Fin Smith were blasted back by Ethan Roots and Ikitau respectively as they searched for soft shoulders in just the wrong places. The fluency that has so characterised and canonised these Saints seemed to be lacking. Over, then, to the burlier blokes. From an advanced position earned by a break from long-striding lock Coles, a series of thunderous carries around the fringes wore down the Exeter defence. Curtis Langdon went close; Smith closer, the fly-half taking the congratulatory pats after surging to the line from short range. Fin Smith helped Northampton to another Prem title (Getty)It was, though, becoming a sort of bar room brawl at the end of a long, heavy night – victory would have to become by any means necessary. Josh Iosefa-Scott’s answer for Exeter was a try befitting the game, an errant lineout landing in his lap and the bruising bouncer rumbling to the line, and kept the Chiefs right in touch. In such a game, a flash of red was no surprise, nor the flash of yellow that followed Northampton flanker Josh Kemeny’s high tackle on a bleeding Dafydd Jenkins.Patched up and ploughing over, the captain’s try put Exeter in front for the first time. Hero, though, would soon turn villain: Jenkins sent to the sin bin himself after a high shot on Furbank. It came just before Mitchell became the latest in a string of Saints to squander a gilt-edged opportunity, and a stalled maul furthered their frustration. It was with relief, then, rather than any great elation that George Hendy’s try was greeted, the wing squeezing into the corner with 15 to go.George Hendy (left) scored two tries late on (Getty)Two points was a slender margin; the two minutes Northampton would play with an extra man potentially pivotal. The Saints seized the opportunity – Hendy again in the same corner, this time from a Smith grubber. Pollock, inevitably, was involved in a flashpoint, deemed to have been making a legal attempt to grab at the ball as he collided with Ridl. There was no doubting that his ruck work soon after was licit – though Smith could not strike the match-securing blow from long range, the Saints fans were already celebrating.

Former Duke alumni Alex Smalley and Max Greyserman made the field for the U.S. Open this week at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York. Greyserman enters the tournament in good form, having advanced through a sectional qualifier, shooting 68 twice to make the field for his second career U.S. Open appearance.As for Smalley, he's had an impressive season in his own right, finishing in a tie for second earlier this season at the PGA Championship. Unfortunately for Smalley, his tournament would end at the conclusion of Friday's round as tough conditions forced a 6-over-par 76 on Thursday. While Smalley mitigated errors Friday, shooting a 3-over-par 73, it wasn't enough to get within the cut line.Moving back to Greyserman, he fared much better than his schoolmate, shooting a one-under-par 69 Thursday, followed by a three-over-par 73 Friday to place comfortably within the +4 cut line. Heading to the weekend with 36 holes left to play, Greyserman sits in a tie for 34th, nine shots behind leader Wyndham Clark (-7).This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Did Duke alumni make the cut at the U.S. Open?

Here are this week’s most popular positive stories, with some fun social media posts tossed in too. Like seeing uplifting content like this? Sign up for our Good News email. There’s a great assortment of inspiring and heartwarming stories in this week’s Good News Roundup, including a great piece on Black Pride celebrations, a few stories about people standing up for queer inclusion, and even a secret queer character in the classic musical comedy Sister Act! Related A trans man donated his eggs to his sister. The pics of him holding his nephew will melt your heart. But before we begin, have you been reading our monthly edition about why LGBTQ+ people love their flags so much? It’s filled with great articles like this one about how activists turned a vandalized Pride flag into a surprising symbol of resilience. Last month’s edition about queer spirituality included this interesting historical nugget: 63 years ago, the Quakers stood up for gay dignity & they’re still fighting for our LGBTQ+ rights. And its cover story about how faeries & witches are magically helping the most vulnerable is worth a look too! Enjoy! This morning, it’s a good knight for coffee Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. Subscribe to our Newsletter today View this post on Instagram A post shared by @by.lizy.bye Gay dad goes viral for honest reflection on raising a straight son “People think it’s gonna be super ‘modern’ and easy. Spoiler: it’s not.” Teacher spreads joy across the internet with “fun & easy” lesson on calling something “gay” “THE BEST TEACHER TO EVER EXIST!!!!” Nancy Pelosi refused to remove trans rights from landmark Hate Crimes Act despite pressure “People told me, ‘You can pass this in a minute if you take out trans.’ I said, ‘I won’t pass it in 100 years because I’m not ever taking out trans.’ An inspiring theory about why queer people are so theatrical… View this post on Instagram A post shared by King Key – Drag King (@kingkeydrag) “Crying in my arms”: People are moved to tears as these dads come to Pride to play catch “A young man was passing by our booth and shouted to his friends, ‘That’s my Dad! That’s the Dad I was telling you about!'” Judge upholds decision to keep anti-trans referendum off Maine’s ballot this year “They took some shortcuts and got caught with their hand in the cookie jar.” How this racecar driver went from flag marshal to building an all-LGBTQ+ racing team “I wanted to provide a safe space and team environment for anyone who was LGBTQ+ to get involved in motorsport,” he said. Something queer is happening in the basement… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amy Sedaris (@amysedaris) Netherlands to ban conversion therapy for both kids & vulnerable adults The parties who spearheaded the bill declared that “years of commitment to freedom, equality, and human dignity have been rewarded.” The sapphic subtext of ‘Sister Act’: One nun was “attracted” to Whoopi Goldberg’s character “I thought, ‘Well, maybe there’s an attraction,’” Wendy Makkena said in a recently resurfaced clip. The celebration of Black joy during Pride Month reminds us of our beauty & power LGBTQ+ people of African descent use Black Pride events not only to celebrate, but also to define and advance their own priorities. And lastly, an inspiring message from … potato soup bowls View this post on Instagram A post shared by The abyss stares back (@thisisyourbrainondrugs) From our sibling sites: QUEERTY: Revisiting the movie—and the musical moment—that made Marlene Dietrich a timeless queer icon OUTSPORTS: The Outsports Soccer Power 26: LGBTQ people making a difference GAYCITIES: Soccer legend and queer icon Megan Rapinoe shares her Seattle hotspots INTO: How an unlicensed song on Stephen Colbert’s finale forced CBS to fund a progressive charity

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The Minnesota Vikings are trying to provide a fair competition at quarterback. They signed Kyler Murray to a one-year, $1.3 million deal, banking on him to return to his Pro Bowl form from 2020 and 2021. But they are also expecting J.J. McCarthy to fix flaws and improve on a disappointing 2025 season.However, FOX Sports' Bucky Brooks sees Murray as the best fit for the offense in 2026, believing that a full bill of health will only be aided by a strong supporting cast.The former Pro Bowler is the most talented quarterback KOC has coached in Minnesota. As an electric dual-threat playmaker, Murray adds an explosive dimension to the offense as a big-play weapon who can produce highlight-reel-worthy plays inside and outside the pocket. With a supporting cast that features a premier WR1 (Jefferson) and a collection of complementary playmakers (Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, Jauan Jennings and Aaron Jones) who will allow him to operate like a pass-first point guard leading a fast break, the Vikings can operate in attack mode with a dynamic athlete at the helm. Moreover, their creative play-action passing game and shotgun "RPO" (run-pass option) package should expand with a twitchy playmaker at the controls. Although media members in attendance for OTAs have noted McCarthy's improvement, the collective belief appears to be that Murray will be the Vikings' starter when the season begins. Not only does Bucky Brooks see Murray winning the job, but he sees him performing well in O'Connell's quarterback-friendly system.This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Fox Sports thinks Kyler Murray is the 'best fit' for the Vikings

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. (AP) — No one ever leading at Shinnecock Hills the last 40 years at the halfway point has won the U.S. Open, a small slice of history that awaited Wyndham Clark. He had a four-shot lead in the fierce wind of Saturday.Dustin Johnson led by that much eight years ago and that didn't end well.But it's really not about Clark as much as it is everyone else, and the reminder to fight to the end.Geoff Ogilvy can speak from the experience of 20 years ago at Winged Foot, where he played the last 12 holes with four bogeys and no birdies and won at 5-over 285. He is the last U.S. Open champion to have never broken par in any of the four rounds.But what he recalls is a conversation the morning of the final round with World Golf Hall of Famer Judy Rankin, a relative by marriage. She told him: “Everyone wakes up Monday morning, looks at the newspaper and is surprised by the score that won the U.S. Open.”“I know that more from watching than playing,” Rankin said Saturday morning from her home in Midland, Texas, where she was quick to point out that “it's blowing here, too.” She devoted the second half of her career to broadcasting.“I just said, ‘Save ever shot.’ I'm telling you, you never know at the U.S. Open what's going to happen,” she said. “It's a different kind of experience.”No need to look back any further than last year, when J.J. Spaun began the final round at Oakmont with five bogeys in six holes. He birdied the last two to win.“I just remember telling him to try to the bitter end if you're in it, because you'll be surprised,” Rankin said.“It's so true,” said Andy North, a two-time U.S. Open champion working television this week at Shinnecock Hills. “You look at the scores the next day and everyone is ticked but the winner.”Here's how the weekend unfolded in the previous U.S. Opens at Shinnecock Hills:2018Johnson had just returned to No. 1 in the world and looked the part. He opened with 69-67, the only player under par going into the weekend and with a four-shot lead.But then the USGA didn't account for how dry and windy the course became, and pin positions late in the day made it a brute. Putts were rolling 50 feet by the hole and over the green. No one from the final 22 groups matched par. Johnson shot 77 and was still tied for the lead.Brooks Koepka, five shots behind going into the weekend, emerged the winner with a 68 on a course the USGA soaked overnight.2004Phil Mickelson and Shigeki Maruyama shared the 36-hole lead at 6-under 134. Retief Goosen had one of only three rounds under par on Saturday to take the lead. In the final round in which the greens baked out — particularly the par-3 seventh green — no one broke par.Goosen was scrambling the whole way around, but he showed his U.S. Open mettle that day when he one-putted the final six greens. This still looked like Mickelson's to win until he three-putted from 5 feet on the 17th hole.Maruyama, meanwhile, went 74-76 on the weekend and tied for fourth.1995For the second straight time at Shinnecock Hills, Greg Norman had the the 36-hole lead by two shots. As usual, someone else ended up holding the trophy.Corey Pavin, six shots behind going into the weekend, cut the deficit in half on Saturday. He fell four shots behind after a bogey on the third hole. That was his last bogey of the round. Norman and Tom Lehman slowly came back to the field. Pavin saved par with a 5-foot putt on the 17th. And then he hit the famous 4-wood into the 18th that secured the win.Norman had nine straight pars in the middle of his round — U.S. Open golf — until two straight bogeys early on the back nine cost him the lead, and a bogey on the 17th put him behind. He needed birdie on the 18th to force a playoff. He made bogey.1986This was the year of Norman's famous “Saturday slam” when he had the 54-hole lead at all four majors (and only won the British Open).He was up by three shots over Lee Trevino and Denis Watson going into the weekend, four shots clear over a group that included Raymond Floyd and Tom Watson. In a final round of good scoring, 10 players had at least a share of the lead. Floyd didn't pull ahead until a birdie on the 13th hole.Floyd was bogey-free for a 66 to win by two shots.___AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Mets' Freddy Peralta leads eight projected trade chips with 50% problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The New York Mets are looking more and more likely to act as trade deadline sellers this season, as they've fallen well behind the pack in the NL East and the Wild Card.If they do sell, it will be interesting to see who's actually on the move. Freddy Peralta is an obvious trade candidate, but who else could move?Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report revealed seven other trade candidates for the Mets, but there is one problem. Of these eight total trade chips, only 50% are likely to be desirable assets this summer.Mets might have a problem with 50% of their trade chipsThe eight players Rymer named as trade chips include their "best" trade chips in Peralta and Bo Bichette, and the rest, which include A.J. Minter, Brooks Raley, Kodai Senga, Mark Vientos, David Peterson, and MJ Melendez."There are some big names here, so it's ironic that Raley and Minter are the only ones that actually look desirable," Rymer writes.Looking at all eight of these trade chips, the best ones are clearly Peralta and Bichette. But, Peralta will cost a lot to trade for as a cheap rental ace-level starter, and Bichette's massive $126 million, three-year deal won't be an easy thing to trade for.Raley and Minter are reliever trade targets whom the Mets should trade if they're planning to sell this summer. They could bring back a decent return, but more importantly, they're the kind of players contenders will want to add.MORE: Mets projected to still sell at trade deadline by ex-MLB GMUnfortunately, when it comes to Vientos, Senga, Peterson, and Melendez, there's not likely to be much interest in these four options.What this means is that 50% of the potential trade chips presented by Rymer aren't likely to be heavily desired by teams this season by the August 3 trade deadline.There might be some interest, especially in Vientos as a right-handed slugger, but overall, it's a bit of a lackluster cast of trade chips for the Mets this season.While the potential trade return for Peralta could make up for the lackluster returns, if there are any, from their other trade chips. But, as sellers, the Mets might not be able to get the desired returns on 50% of their trade chips this summer.More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsTarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agencyCubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GMYankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius

Referee Ilgiz Tantashev told John McGinn he turned down his claim for a penalty against Morocco because the ball was going out of play as he was challenged by Neil El Aynaoui, the Scotland midfielder's brother, Stephen, has revealed.Scott McTominay also claimed for penalty under a challenge from midfielder El Aynaoui as Scotland suffered a 1-0 defeat in Boston, but it was his brother's claim that the Falkirk first-team coach thought had more credibility."The McTominay one, my gut reaction was he was playing for it," McGinn told BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound.Boston bounce sends Scotland to Miami with hope and no fearFlawed but relentless Scotland show themselves as men of substanceMorocco 'got away with one' - McGinn"The John one, I genuinely thought at the time this is the one. Having seen it back, absolutely a penalty. No doubt in my mind."On the pitch, the referee told John, because the ball's going out of play, it wasn't a foul."When has that ever been the case? It doesn't make sense."Former Scotland winger Neil McCann agreed."I think the McGinn one is a penalty and the McTominay one isn't," the Kilmarnock manager said."The McGinn one, we've done it as players - he is understanding that he is coming from the side and he knows he just has to take it across him and take the contact."Granted, it is not a clean-out job, but there's enough contact on his hip to put him out."McCann and McGinn, meanwhile, both thought the Uzbekistan referee should have sent off defender Issa Diop for a last-man challenge on Scotland striker Che Adams."It is absolutely a red card for me," McCann said. "There's no covering defender, it's a clip, so it's not as if it is a ball that's travelling."It is not a natural collision or an accidental pull-down. He's pulled him down. Che Adams got goal side."I can't believe he wasn't brought to the [VAR] monitor."Somebody said behind me 'he's quite far out', but we had guys being sent off in the opposition half in the Premiership and I think we all work under the same laws of the game."But that is not far out and Che Adams is completely getting on the ball, otherwise why is the yellow card brandished?"When Stevie [head coach Clarke] digests that, I think he'll really go big on that."McGinn was of the same mind and added: "The way our league became last season, that's an absolute stonewall red card."World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

England A winger George Hendy took his tally to 18 tries in all competitions for Northampton this season [Getty Images]The Prem finalNorthampton (14) 26Tries: Freeman, Smith, Hendy 2 Cons: Smith 3 Exeter (10) 17Tries: Ridl, Iosefa-Scott, Jenkins Cons: SladeGeorge Hendy's two tries in three second-half minutes secured Northampton the Prem title as they beat Exeter 26-17 in the final at Allianz Stadium.Hendy's scores inside the final quarter opened up a nip and tuck game as Saints won the title for a third time. Tommy Freeman capitalised on an Exeter error to put Saints ahead inside two minutes before Campbell Ridl hit back in an all-action opening. Fin Smith's try put Saints back in front only for Josh Iosefa-Scott to go over seconds before the interval as Exeter cut the gap to four points.Northampton's Josh Kemeny was sin-binned after 51 minutes, with Exeter skipper Dafydd Jenkins going over to give his side the lead moments later.Jenkins was yellow-carded himself five minutes later and, with an extra player, Hendy's 64th-minute try put Saints in front again before getting his second moments later.Saints strike early, but Exeter respondTommy Freeman's early try stunned Exeter [Getty Images]The occasion appeared to get to Exeter as they suffered the worst possible start when the fit-again Feyi-Waboso bumped into Olly Woodburn, who was catching Archie McParland's dinked kick towards the Exeter corner, and Freeman snaffled up the loose ball before diving in. Henry Pollock was held up over the Exeter line five minutes later as Northampton – backed by a noisy crowd from the East Midlands – adapted to the big day better than the Chiefs.Exeter's nightmare opening was compounded when in-form hooker Max Norey limped off with an ankle injury moments later.But just when it seemed as though Exeter might crumble, they hit back as Len Ikitau gathered the ball after Freeman tried to keep a kick in play and fed Ridl, who raced in down the left wing for his 17th try in all competitions in his debut season.Chiefs could have gone further ahead in the following minutes, but Saints thwarted dangerous breaks by Henry Slade and Stephen Varney, while George Furbank dropped a pass with the Exeter line beckoning in the 18th minute.But Saints breached Exeter for a second time eight minutes from the break when Smith went in after a number of phases deep in Chiefs territory.However, in the final seconds of the half Exeter got their second try as they kicked a penalty to the corner and Iosefa-Scott gathered the ball at the back of the resulting lineout and forced his way in.Yellow cards make difference as Saints edge itDafydd Jenkins' try briefly put Exeter into the lead before Hendy's heroics [Getty Images]Saints started the second half with the same intent as the first but Exeter's defence held out for 14 phases in and around their line in the opening five minutes in a stand reminiscent of the end of their semi-final win at Bath last week.Rory Hutchinson had a try ruled out for a knock-on two minutes later as the table-toppers looked to assert themselves.But the momentum swung when Kemeny was sin-binned for a 51st-minute head to head clash with Jenkins, and a few phases after Exeter had kicked the resulting penalty for a close-range lineout the Wales lock forced his way in.Saints were dealt a further blow when England scrum-half Alex Mitchell – on as a first-half replacement for the injured McParland – dropped the ball under a challenge from Ridl as he went over the Exeter line.However, in the aftermath replays showed Jenkins had put in a dangerous challenge on Furbank and he was sent to the sin-bin with 23 minutes left.Saints dominated the ball with the extra man and were rewarded when Hendy dived over in the right corner after a fine flowing move across the field.It proved to be the hammer blow for Exeter's hopes as Saints reclaimed the crown they lost to Bath 12 months ago.George Hendy wrote his name into Northampton history [Shutterstock]As Northampton skipper Furbank lifted the trophy on his final appearance before joining Harlequins, he leaves a Saints side who have become the team to beat in recent years.Just three league defeats this season saw Saints top the table as they reached their third final in as many seasons, having won the Prem two years ago and made last season's Champions Cup final.While Furbank may be departing, Saints fans will hope that with stars such as Smith, man-of-the-match Pollock and Freeman forming the backbone of their side they will be coming back to Twickenham in the not too distant future.For Exeter, even though they have lost a final for a fifth time in seven attempts, the game caps a remarkable revival after finishing ninth last season - the club's worst top flight placing since promotion in 2010.The Chiefs suffered a record 79-17 loss at Gloucester last April and won only four league games all season – two against weakened teams – as the Devon side looked to be in turmoil.But new coaches and a number of new players such as Ikitau, Varney and Tom Hooper have reignited a side that dominated the domestic scene for the second half of the last decade.With new American investment on the horizon, could this victory be the start of another dynasty like that one that began a decade ago when they made six successive Premiership finals and won the 2020 European Champions Cup.Northampton: Furbank (c); Freeman, Litchfield, Hutchinson, Hendy; Smith, McParland; Iyogun, Langdon, Millar Mills; Coles, Prowse, Kemeny, Pearson, Pollock.Replacements: Wright, Fischetti, Green, Van der Mescht, Lockett, Chick, Mitchell, Dingwall.Yellow card: Kemeny (51)Exeter: Woodburn; Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Ikitau, Ridl; Skinner, Varney; Sio, Norey, Iosefa-Scott; Jenkins (c), Zambonin, Hooper, Roots, Fisilau.Replacements: Dweba, Burger, Tchumbadze, Tshiunza, Vintcent, James, Cairns, Haydon-Wood.Yellow card: Jenkins (57)Referee: Matthew Carley.

NEW DELHI: India captain Rohit Sharma etched his name into the record books during the third ODI against Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Saturday.Stationed at first slip, Rohit grabbed the first three catches of the Afghanistan innings to become only the fourth Indian fielder to be involved in the first three dismissals of an ODI innings.The rare feat had previously been achieved only by Sourav Ganguly against the West Indies in Baroda in 2002, Manoj Tiwary against the West Indies in North Sound in 2011, and Suresh Raina against Sri Lanka in Cardiff in 2013.Afghanistan's innings got off to a disastrous start when Rohit completed a catch off the very first ball of the match. Rahmanullah Gurbaz edged Prasidh Krishna to first slip and Rohit made no mistake.A few overs later, Rohit was in action again. Rahmat Shah attempted to work a delivery towards the leg side but only managed a leading edge, with the Indian skipper safely taking the catch.Rohit's hat-trick of catches came in the eighth over when Ibrahim Zadran edged another Prasidh Krishna delivery to first slip. The catch completed a remarkable sequence, with Rohit accounting for Afghanistan's first three dismissals.Same fielder effecting the first three dismissals in an ODI innings for IndiaSourav Ganguly vs West Indies, Baroda, 2002Manoj Tiwary vs West Indies, North Sound, 2011Suresh Raina vs Sri Lanka, Cardiff, 2013Rohit Sharma vs Afghanistan, Chennai, 2026India are looking to complete a 3-0 series sweep after already taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. 131876750

Russ Fraser, pictured right with Phil Neville, has worked at the top of the women's system with Reading, West Ham United, Leicester City and Liverpool, Wolves said [Getty Images]A new head of women and girls' football has been appointed at Wolverhampton Wanderers following the team's promotion last season.Wolves Women secured their place in the Barclays Women's Super League 2, (WSL2) for the first time, with a victory over Plymouth Argyle Women in May.The club said that Russ Fraser has worked at the top of the women's system with Reading, West Ham United, Leicester City and Liverpool, and has history of transitioning clubs into the professional game.He will manage all aspects of the women's operation at Wolves, including player and staff recruitment and academy planning, the club added.Wolves Women were promoted to the Barclays Women's Super League 2, (WSL2) in May [BBC]He has joined the club for its first season as a professional outfit, having also spent time with Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia as women's sporting director.Technical director, Matt Jackson said: "Russ has been really successful at this level and above with high profile clubs. He's got a top understanding of the women's game and demonstrated that in his interview process."He has brilliant contacts and knows the level of quality which is required to be successful when recruiting", he added.With the club's recent success under manager Dan McNamara and growth in the past 18 months, women and staff "deserve to have someone of the experience of Russ guiding them through the next stage of the journey", he said.Fraser said he was excited about the opportunity and the first season was the biggest challenge."There are a lot of similarities with Liverpool in that the club's really important to what goes on in the city, and there's good people here, so I think we can develop a really good football programme here over the next three to five seasons," he said."Macca [Dan McNamara] and I seem very aligned in the way we see things, and the players we're looking at, and I was really pleased with Compton Park as a facility, because there's real interaction between the men's and women's groups – it's a pack mentality, and that is massive when you're trying to build an environment."Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. More on this story Reception to celebrate Wolves Women's promotionLiverpool name first women's managing director Related internet links Wolves Women

Ricardo Pepi helped fill the gap left by Christian Pulisic’s absence on Friday.Photograph: Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty ImagesOnce it was clear that Christian Pulisic’s calf could keep him out of Friday’s match against Australia, Mauricio Pochettino had a lot of options to consider. There is no like-for-like alternative to Pulisic, still the United States’ most important player.Australia entered this game with a point to prove, wanting to build off of their opening win over Turkey with a statement result against the tournament co-hosts. As was the case when the teams met for a friendly in October, the Socceroos were set up to operate in a low defensive block, with five along the backline and a swarming, zonal marking scheme in front of them. That system can be quite effective against a team who play with just one striker, as the US have for most of the 21st century.Related: USA surge into World Cup knockout stage after dominant victory over SocceroosWhen the lineups dropped, there was just one change from the US side who bulldozed Paraguay 4-1. There was no Pulisic. In his stead was Ricardo Pepi, who would play alongside his fellow center-forward Folarin Balogun. It seemed like a risk for the US to forego their usual numbers in midfield, but it proved to be a gambit rather than a gamble as the US strolled to a 2-0 half-time lead they maintained until the final whistle.“I feel like it opens up some spaces, of course, but you know it’s always good to be able to have two strikers,” Pepi said after his first World Cup start. “If the defenders are marking me, then the other [striker] is always free. So it’s a good thing that we were able to play like this, and it just shows what the team has.”What the team have is chemistry, after years playing alongside each other at youth and senior levels. Coupled with a few weeks to train together, the US look far better rehearsed with their movement patterns, and it’s putting even the sturdiest of opponents’ low-blocks in two minds.The first time the US truly tested the Socceroos on Friday they scored. It was the second straight match in which they had forced their opponents into an early own-goal.In the 11th minute, after the US had already tested Australia from each side, Antonee Robinson collected a pass from Tim Ream as he has countless times during his career. When Pochettino’s US play with two attacking midfielders, as they do when Pulisic is on the field, Robinson’s instinct has been to look for either his holding or attacking midfielder to get the ball back into the half-space.Against Paraguay, sequences like these kept the South Americans on their toes and allowed the US to put together dizzying patterns of play. Adding a second striker makes the more direct route even more advisable as any downhill sprint can be supplemented with adequate support.Robinson gave Australia a test with a ball up the line, having already drawn wing-back Jacob Italiano too far upfield to nullify the threat. Balogun recognized the space and made a run to create an opportunity.The US found themselves with a similar sequence in their recent friendly against Senegal. In that match, Sergiño Dest popped up to offer Pulisic a crossing option after Pepi had dropped deep to help with build-up. On Friday, with all three Australian center-backs still stationed at the edge of their defensive third, this ball left the US with an advantage of pace as the midfielders and wing-backs scrambled to support.“I mean, credit to [Balogun],” Robinson said after the match. “I could see that he was looking to run the space in behind, so I just kind of played it down the channel for him, and then he’s done a lot of work to get towards the goal and create a chance.”Despite seldom operating as a winger in his career to date, Balogun attacked the space presented to him, confident that he could stay a step ahead of Alessandro Circati.Pepi kept doing center-forward stuff as the sequence progressed and made a run up the heart of the pitch. Although Balogun had scored a brace against Paraguay, Australia would have been reckless to ignore Pepi, who bagged 16 goals in 26 league games for PSV this past season. Balogun bypassed Circati and was running out of room. But he had ideal options available to him in the heart of the box.Cameron Burgess had done just enough to get between Balogun and his teammates and desperately tried to prod the ball out for a corner kick. But under pressure, Burgess instead put the ball past his own keeper to reward Balogun’s industry.The gambit had paid off quickly. Australia’s defense were in two minds from the opening whistle, with their center-backs occupied and unable to lock down on Balogun as intended.“I want to be dangerous,” Balogun said after the win. “I want to create opportunities, and it might not always be myself that scores, but if I can force an error that gives us the lead, then for me it’s like a goal as well.”Pepi’s presence in the box also helped on the second goal. As Robinson prepared to take a free-kick at the end of the first half, Australia had to contend with the threat of three US center-backs and two strikers, including Pepi – prime targets for deliveries like these. Dest loitered around the edge of the area, and Australia’s panicked defenders ran to mark him as he received Robinson’s free-kick. That left the Socceroos’ defensive block unsettled, meaning Alex Freeman was open when Dest’s shot took a deflection and the ball headed towards the Villarreal defender.From there, the second half was far easier for the US to control. Australia had committed to being difficult to break down in the hope of nicking a goal or two, as they had against Turkey. The Socceroos made three substitutions at half-time but the changes did little to boost their attacking threat. Pepi kept doing what he was asked to do as he occupied defenders and found space. That, coupled with his pressing, made him a valuable alternative to Pulisic, despite having a very disparate job description.For Pepi, who was harshly left off the last World Cup roster, it was a memorable start that should earn him more playing time moving forward. No matter who is in the lineup, this group is confident they can adapt on the fly and keep the initiative.“Whether it’s coming to feet, running off the ball, we’re all trying to create options for each other,” Robinson said. “It feels fluid. Everyone feels like they’re linking up really well, and hopefully we keep going with it.”

Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty ImagesThe USGA has been told that it has strayed into dangerous territory by penalising Joaquin Niemann for throwing a club during the first round of the US Open. Niemann deserves enormous credit for making the cut at the third major of the year. His performance was all the more impressive because he made an 11 on one hole during his opening round in Southampton.On the par four sixth hole, Niemann ended up hitting two balls out of bounds. He was subsequently handed a two-shot penalty having thrown his club and lost his temper.It is a new rule that led to Niemann being reprimanded. However, it is difficult to judge whether it was a fair decision or not given that the incident was not caught on camera.And that perhaps poses a problem.The USGA have been criticised after Joaquin Niemann received a penalty at the US OpenMany will remember Sergio Garcia being warned at The Masters after smashing his driver and damaging the second tee during the final round at Augusta National.Garcia avoided a stronger punishment on that occasion.And speaking on the Golf Channel Podcast, Rex Hoggard and Ryan Lavner suggested that the USGA have created an issue for themselves by making an example of his fellow LIV Golf star at Shinnecock.“It also should be noted that we don’t know exactly what happened on the sixth tee. There is no video evidence of anything. We know he threw his golf club. It’s pretty shocking [that there’s no video], it was very late in the day. The sun was going down. They were just finishing play yesterday afternoon. So I guess it’s understandable,” Hoggard said.“Based on the limited information that we do know, that he threw his club, whatever, 50 yards, this seems highhanded. It seems excessive. It seems as if they were trying to make an example out of him. Because you go back, we did have video evidence of what Sergio did at The Masters, and I would suggest anyone who’s listening right now, pull up a second screen and Google it and take a look at it yourself. That was vicious. It was petulant. It was childish. And yet, somehow, that just got a warning from the one organisation you would think would be the most highhanded of all of them. You would think they would be the ones that would start clutching the pearls when it came to player behaviour and be the first to dole out a two-stroke penalty. And yet, Sergio got the warning, Joaquin Niemann, for whatever it is he did, again, we’re not 100 per cent sure, this seems excessive.”Photo by Warren Little/Getty ImagesLavner added: “The Athletic, our friend Gabby Herzig, reported that a volunteer, who was witness to this account, said that Joaquin Niemann was kicking sort of the white flags that the spotters used to identify where the golf ball is, also kicking the sand, had left his club and actually only received it after an officer who was walking alongside the group, retrieved it for him and brought it to him. Even with those additional details, and again, Joaquin Niemann couldn’t dispute it necessarily because there was no other video evidence, it was basically one person’s account of the matter, even with that, two shots seems like way too penal a punishment for Joaquin Niemann.“And my biggest issue is that the rules of golf are supposed to be applied fairly and consistently. And even though this is a well intentioned rule, that you’re wanting to crack down on bad behaviour among players inside the ropes, there’s no way that this can be applied, fairly and consistently. It’s arbitrary by its very nature. Some of these are going to go viral. Some of these are going to be done anonymously. Some of these are gonna be a 25 yard club toss. Some of them are going to be a 50 yard club toss. Some of them are just being very tame club toss, but okay, they’re also going to be accompanied by a string of F-bombs. When you look at the rule and how it’s written, quote, ‘unacceptable language, and golf course, or club abuse’ are all folded in here.“It’s sort of akin to a technical foul in the NBA, where if a ref has a quick hook, and you might, you might get teed up and that’s not going to be necessarily consistent from game to game, week to week, month to month. But this, I think, is a really dangerous precedent for the USGA to set, because there is no way that you can apply this fairly consistently to all 156 players in the field.”A lack of consistency already on show at the US OpenLavner is right to call for consistency. It is absolutely not fair if Niemann receives a two-shot penalty if another player escapes punishment for a club throw.Jon Rahm was seen kicking his driver off one tee. Admittedly, it was petulant rather than aggressive, but it still was not a good look when you consider that the Spaniard is one of the best players in the world and a former champion of the event.Similarly, many will be wondering what Niemann could have really done that was so bad when Garcia avoided the same punishment at Augusta National.Players should be able to show emotion on the golf course. But the governing bodies should also establish a clear line that completely removes interpretation from the rule.

Report: Chelsea star set to leave the club this summerLeeds United Monitor Filip Jorgensen as Chelsea Prepare for Goalkeeper ExitLeeds United’s search for a new goalkeeper has taken an intriguing turn, with SportsBoom reporting that Chelsea are prepared to listen to both loan and permanent offers for Filip Jorgensen this summer.The Danish international arrived at Stamford Bridge from Villarreal in a £20 million deal amid significant expectations. Chelsea viewed him as a long term solution between the posts, handing him a seven year contract after his impressive performances in La Liga.However, football rarely follows the script.Stamford Bridge StrugglesJorgensen has found opportunities limited since arriving in West London.“Jorgensen has spent much of his Chelsea career playing second fiddle and has been unable to force his way into the club’s first-choice plans.”Just six Premier League appearances in his first season and five in the following campaign tell the story. For a goalkeeper entering his prime years, regular football is essential.That reality has fuelled his desire to move on.Photo IMAGOLeeds Opportunity EmergesLeeds United are among the clubs showing serious interest as Daniel Farke reshapes his squad following another season in the Premier League.The departure of Illan Meslier has created an obvious vacancy and Jorgensen’s profile appears attractive. At 24 years old, he combines top flight experience with room for further development.“Sources close to the player suggest his preference would be to remain in the Premier League if possible and establish himself as a regular starter at the highest level.”That preference could work firmly in Leeds’ favour.Chelsea Open to SolutionsChelsea are willing to consider several routes.A loan remains possible if a club agrees to cover most of his wages, but a permanent transfer would be the ideal outcome as the London club continue restructuring under Xabi Alonso.Jorgensen remains highly regarded despite his lack of opportunities. This feels less like a player lacking ability and more like a talented goalkeeper needing the right environment.For Leeds, it could prove a smart market opportunity.Word Count: 432Our View – EPL Index AnalysisAs football supporters, this is a move that makes a lot of sense for Leeds United.There is always a degree of risk when signing a player who has struggled for minutes, but context matters. Filip Jorgensen did not suddenly become a poor goalkeeper after moving to Chelsea. The qualities that convinced the Blues to spend £20 million on him remain intact.Leeds supporters should be encouraged by the profile. At 24, he has already experienced La Liga football, international recognition with Denmark and life at one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs. That combination of experience and potential is difficult to find.There will naturally be scepticism around his limited appearances. Goalkeepers thrive on rhythm and confidence, and Jorgensen has not enjoyed either consistently at Chelsea.Yet this feels like a situation where regular football could unlock his best form again.From Chelsea’s perspective, a permanent sale would fit their ongoing squad rebuild. Under Xabi Alonso, difficult decisions are being made and Jorgensen appears to be one of several players facing uncertain futures.For Leeds, the attraction is clear. They need a dependable number one capable of handling Premier League pressure. Jorgensen has the technical quality, age profile and motivation to become exactly that.If Leeds can secure favourable terms, this could be one of the more sensible goalkeeper moves of the summer window.

Shohei Ohtani family tree: Dodgers and basketball-playing wife star expecting second child originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.JUMP TO:Shohei Ohtani wife: Mamiko TanakaShohei Ohtani daughterShohei Ohtani dad: Toru OhtaniShohei Ohtani mom: Kayoko OhtaniShohei Ohtani brother: Ryuta OhtaniShohei Ohtani sister: Yuka OhtaniWhere is Shohei Ohtani from?There are plenty of stars scattered across MLB's landscape. But there’s only one unicorn.Shohei Ohtani is arguably baseball’s most extraordinary talent. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ supernova is a mystifying blend of speed, power, vision and verve — and that’s just when he’s hitting. A two-way titan, Ohtani’s reputation precedes him. With a trophy case full of MVP awards, a World Baseball Classic title, and a World Series championship, he has reaped the rewards of a career that will almost certainly end in Cooperstown.Off the field, Ohtani has drawn just as much attention. Some of it stems from his connection to the Ippei Mizuhara gambling scandal that rocked MLB in 2024. Some comes from his growing family, which has expanded significantly in recent seasons.Here’s what you need to know about Ohtani’s family tree — from his basketball-playing wife and expected child in June 2026, to his badminton-loving mother.MORE: Shohei Ohtani contract, explained: Breaking Dodgers star's unique $700M dealShohei Ohtani wife: Mamiko TanakaShohei Ohtani’s wife is Mamiko Tanaka, an athlete who made her mark on a very different playing surface: the basketball court.Standing 5-foot-11, Tanaka excelled as a power forward and center. She played college basketball at Waseda University in Tokyo before joining the Fujitsu Red Wave of the Women’s Japan Basketball League. During her four seasons with Fujitsu, Tanaka and the Red Wave made the playoffs every year, reaching the Finals in 2022, where they fell to the Toyota Antelopes in two games.Tanaka retired following the 2022–23 season, finishing her final year with averages of 7.8 points, 6.0 rebounds, 0.9 blocks and 1.0 steals per game. A former member of the Japanese women’s national team, she reportedly met Ohtani at a training facility — though Ohtani admits he doesn’t recall the encounter clearly. Over the next two weeks, they saw each other multiple times, laying the foundation for a long-distance relationship. The couple married in 2024 and welcomed their first child, a daughter, in April 2025.MORE:How fast is Shoehei Ohtani? How 50-50 club member compares to other playersShohei Ohtani daughterShohei Ohtani and Tanaka had their first daughter on April 19, 2025. Her name has yet to be revealed to the public."Welcome to the Ohtani Family," Ohtani wrote in a statement posted on Instagram. "I am so grateful to my loving wife who gave birth to our healthy beautiful daughter.View this post on InstagramA post shared by Shohei Ohtani | 大谷翔平 (@shoheiohtani)MORE:How tall is Shohei Ohtani? Inside Dodgers stars height, weight and moreShohei Ohtani second childIn June 2026, the Dodgers shared news that Ohtani would be heading on paternity leave, marking the birth of he and his wife's second child.At this time, no further details are known about Ohtani's second child, but the Dodgers star will be away from his team for a brief period as his family grows.The Ohtanis released an official statement about their second child the couple just welcomed into the world this weekend. Here is the statement:Shohei Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka welcomed their second child to the world 💙(via shoheiohtani/IG) pic.twitter.com/Fl8raSofVc— ESPN (@espn) June 20, 2026Shohei Ohtani dad: Toru OhtaniShohei Ohtani's father is Toru Ohtani. He introduced Shohei to the sport at a young age, having played as an outfielder for a corporate-sponsored baseball team in a Japanese industrial league.Toru suffered a shoulder injury at 25, prompting him to work full-time at a Mitsbushi factory. In his free time, he trained Ohtani and coached summer ball. Not much has changed all these years later; Toru Ohtani currently helms a middle school team, the Oshu City Youth Baseball Team.MORE: Shohei Ohtani gambling scandal, explainedShohei Ohtani mom: Kayoko OhtaniShohei Ohtani's mother is Kayoko Ohtani. She also made her mark as an athlete, earning rave reviews as an amateur badminton player in Japan. She very well could be the most talented athlete in the family.“I can’t beat her in badminton to this day,” Shohei told MLB.com in 2017. “She’s tall and she’s been playing badminton for a long time.”Shohei accompanied his mom to many of her badminton practices when he was a kid. He showed interest in the sport from an early age, tinkering with her equipment as she lined shots over the net. “I would let Shohei play with the equipment,” Kayoko Ohtani told Nippon in 2022. “Maybe it’s because the motions in badminton are similar to baseball, but he could swing the racquet like a champ without me having to show him.”Ohtani credited his mother with helping him cultivate his skills on the diamond."I was always playing different sports and games ... that's how I learned to move and control my body," Ohtani said in 2023, per MLB.com.MORE:Is Shohei Ohtani the GOAT of MLB?Shohei Ohtani brother: Ryuta OhtaniShohei Ohtani's brother is Ryuta Ohtani. Much like his younger brother, Ryuta showed a passion for the diamond at a young age. After finding success as a local club player in Oshu, Ryuta made the leap to the pros, playing two years in an independent league. He joined the Toyota Motor East Japan Club in 2012 and remained on the roster for more than a decade, serving as the team's outfielder and coach, per Sportskeeda. In December 2024, he was promoted to manager. He's the 11th manager in Toyota Motor East Japan history.MORE:How many World Series have the Dodgers won?Shohei Ohtani sister: Yuka OhtaniShohei Ohtani's sister is Yuka Ohtani. Little is known about her, although Essentially Sports reported that Yuka played volleyball when she was younger and now is working as a nurse in Japan.MORE: Where Aaron Judge's height ranks among tallest MLB players of all timeWhere is Shohei Ohtani from?Shohei Ohtani hails from Ōshū, in Iwate Prefecture, Japan — a city of roughly 114,620 people located in the country’s northeasternmost region. A prodigious baseball talent as a teenager, he could have pursued his career in major cities like Osaka or Yokohama. Instead, he chose to stay close to home, attending Hanamaki Higashi High School in nearby Hanamaki City. While there, Ohtani shared the field with future MLB All-Star Yusei Kikuchi and also earned recognition for his skills as a swimmer.MORE: Revisiting Yankees vs. Red Sox playoff history

Giants top-10 trade chips revealed with interesting Jung Hoo Lee problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The San Francisco Giants are looking more and more likely to be trade deadline sellers as the season moves along. The rumor mill has been rampant lately, indicating Buster Posey is open to selling some of the team's players.While the question of whether the Giants will be buyers or sellers appears to be answered, the new question is about who could be on the move. Rental options are clear trade chips this season, but there are a lot of other interesting names worth mentioning.Bleacher Report's Zachary D. Rymer revealed the Giants' top-10 trade chips, all of which make sense as options to be moved. But there is one interesting problem, and it revolves around $113 million outfielder Jung Hoo Lee.Giants' top-10 trade chips revealed, with Jung Hoo Lee question"Their Best Trade Chips: 1B/DH Rafael Devers, SS Willy Adames, 3B Matt Chapman, RF Jung Hoo Lee, 2B Luis Arraez, LHP Robbie Ray," Rymer writes. "... And out of these names, Lee is the only one who isn't either A) an albatross or B) a free-agent-to-be."These six top trade assets for the Giants feature some very likely names to be brought up in trade talks this season.Arraez and Ray are free agents after the season, and the trio of Devers, Adames, and Chapman are expensive veterans the Giants might want to shed the contracts of.But when it comes to Lee, he's a lot more of an interesting trade problem for the Giants. He's 27 years old, under contract through the 2029 season on his $113 million deal, and is having a great season so far.He has a .328 batting average and has an .812 OPS, both of which are significantly better than the production he's had in his Major League career so far.MORE: Cubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GMThe left-handed hitting outfielder who is under club control through 2029 surely would garner some trade interest, but since he's not too expensive, and under contract for a while, and finally breaking out, it might make sense to keep him for a while.Even if they keep him, those five other top trade candidates, and other trade assets in Tyler Mahle, Adrian Houser, Caleb Kilian, and JT Brubaker could make for a very strong haul at the deadline without dealing Lee.However, if Posey truly wants to reset this roster and shake things up, trading Lee in the middle of a breakout season could fetch a very strong return.This is an interesting problem for the Giants, as the potential for a Lee trade is something to monitor. While the decisions on Devers, Chapman, and Adames will be of note, seeing what happens to Lee might be the most interesting decision of the trade deadline.More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsEx-MLB GM projects White Sox to sell at trade deadline despite 2026 successTarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agencyYankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius

As Matchday 2 continues in the 2026 World Cup, the Round of 32 picture is beginning to take shape.Two of the tournament’s three co-hosts, the United States and Mexico, have already clinched their respective groups and will advance to the knockout stage. Canada has picked up four points through their first two matches and face Switzerland on Wednesday, which will decide the Group B winner.There will be 32 teams advancing to the knockout round following the group stage. The top two teams from each group will advance along with the eight best third-place teams. World Cup schedule | Group schedule, results | StandingsAccording to FIFA, here is how any ties will be broken:Step 1: greatest number of points obtained in the group matches between the teams concerned; superior goal difference resulting from the group matches between the teams concerned; greatest number of goals scored in all group matches between the teams concernedIf no decision can be made through this procedure, the criteria below shall apply as follows to the two or more teams still equal on points:Step 2: superior goal difference in all group matches; greatest number of goals scored in all group matches; highest team conduct score (players and team officials) relating to the number of yellow and red cards obtainedIf no decision can be made through the procedures of step one and two above, the following shall apply:Step 3: the two or more teams still equal on points shall be ranked according to the most recent published edition of the FIFA/Coca‑Cola Men's World RankingTeams qualified for the Round of 32: United States, MexicoThe U.S. beat Paraguay and Australia to take Group D with one match (against Türkiye) to spare. They are locked into a July 1 knockout stage date against the third-place team from either Group B, E, F, I or J at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.Mexico posted clean sheets against South Africa and South Korea to win Group A. They will remain in Mexico and take on a third-place team from Group C, E, F, H, or I on June 30 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.Teams eliminated: Haiti, TürkiyeIn their first World Cup since 1974, Haiti continue to seek their first-ever win in the competition. They dropped their opening match to Scotland and were shutout for a second straight game against Brazil. They will finish their tournament on Wednesday against Morocco.Thought to be a contender for the Group D title, Türkiye has crashed out of the tournament after two defeats to Australia and Paraguay. After placing third in 2002, their last time at the World Cup, Türkiye will face group winners the U.S. on Thursday in Los Angeles.How FIFA’s new World Cup knockout bracket worksFor this World Cup, FIFA has made tweaks to the knockout stage. In the pursuit of competitive balance, two pathways have been created to the semifinals that will prevent the two highest-ranking teams from meeting before the final should they win their respective groups. As an example, Spain is the highest-ranked team in the tournament, with defending champion Argentina ranked second. Those two nations were drawn into opposite pathways. It is the same for France (No. 3) and England (No. 4), so the top four teams, should they win their groups, will not meet until the semifinals.

The 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is offering a championship-record purse.The USGA announced earlier in the week that total prize money would be upped by $1 million to $22.5 million. Saturday after the cut, the organization released the full breakdown.Here's how the purse will be paid out to the 67 professionals who made the cut in the season's third major (will be updated with individual payouts when play concludes Sunday evening):Note: the 69 professional who missed the cut will received a $10,000 stipend. Amateurs do not receive compensation.Win: $4,500,0002: $2,430,0003: $1,532,5304: $1,074,3635: $894,8416: $793,4437: $715,3208: $640,6549: $579,81510: $532,57211: $486,02112: $449,37913: $418,72914: $386,46615: $358,81216: $335,76717: $317,33118: $298,89519: $280,45920: $262,02221: $246,12122: $230,22023: $214,78024: $200,49225: $188,04826: $177,44727: $169,38128: $162,23729: $155,32430: $148,41031: $141,49732: $134,58333: $127,66934: $121,44735: $116,37736: $111,30737: $106,46838: $101,85939: $97,25040: $92,64141: $88,03242: $83,42343: $78,81444: $74,20545: $69,59646: $65,44847: $61,30048: $57,38249: $55,07750: $52,77351: $51,39052: $50,23853: $49,31654: $48,85555: $48,39456: $47,93357: $47,47258: $47,01259: $46,55160: $46,09061: $45,62962: $45,16863: $44,70764: $44,24665: $43,78566: $43,32467: $42,863

From Osimhen to Sané: Who is George Gardi and why Milan want him to solve their transfer crisisMilan are considering bringing in external transfer consultant George Gardi to help navigate the club’s summer recruitment amid the ongoing leadership vacuum at San Siro, with the Florence-based fixer’s extensive network and track record making him an attractive bridge solution while the search for a permanent sporting director continues.According to MilanNews.it, Gardi would not function as a conventional agent or intermediary but as a special external consultant, someone who facilitates complex transfer operations that might otherwise prove impossible to structure.With internal figures Bobby Gardiner and Jovan Kirovski expected to take on greater responsibility in the short term while working alongside Amorim on squad planning, Gardi would complement rather than replace that setup.MAY 20: A detailed view of the corner flag on the inside of the stadium prior to the Serie A match between AC MIlan and UC Sampdoria at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 20, 2023 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)Gardi’s Galatasaray connections and top-level network make him ideal Milan problem-solverGardi’s CV speaks for itself.In recent years he has been the architect behind some of Turkish football’s most ambitious signings: facilitating Victor Osimhen’s move from Napoli to Galatasaray, Mauro Icardi’s arrival from PSG, Lucas Torreira from Arsenal, Dries Mertens after his Napoli years, Alvaro Morata from Milan, Nicolò Zaniolo from Roma, Hakim Ziyech from Chelsea and Leroy Sanè from Bayern Munich, among others.The Osimhen deal in particular, which required navigating Aurelio De Laurentiis’s complex banking guarantee demands, demonstrated his ability to operate effectively even in the most difficult negotiating environments.For a Milan side that currently lacks experience, contacts and reputation at the highest transfer market level, Gardi’s involvement could prove invaluable in a summer where time is already running short.

Koeman issues De Jong fitness update after start for Netherlands: ‘Don’t think he’s 100% but he’s in good enough shape’With the Netherlands facing off against Sweden in their second 2026 FIFA World Cup encounter, Barcelona midfielder and captain Frenkie de Jong has been named in the starting lineup.This comes despite the Dutch national team’s manager, Ronald Koeman, had expressed doubts about his readiness to play, due to the player suffering from some discomfort around the abdomen.However, the Barcelona ace has seemingly recovered sufficiently to be included in the starting XI by Koeman – a development that the Blaugrana will be monitoring closely.Koeman on De JongDe Jong starts for the Netherlands. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)Speaking just before kickoff against Sweden, Koeman issued an update on De Jong’s condition, which is bound to raise some concerns at Barcelona.The Netherlands head coach admitted that the midfielder was not at his 100%, although he felt good enough to be named in the starting lineup.“I don’t think he’s 100% but he’s in good enough shape for us to have him start the match. We still have the warm-up period to make sure of that,” the manager said (h/t FCB World).On whether he felt worried about De Jong’s condition in the last few days leading up to the Sweden clash, he added:“You keep in mind the possibility that he might not be able to start, but this isn’t a concern. “Of course, you want to field the best and strongest lineup from our point of view in the match. This is something that can happen in football.”Risky move?Hypocritical from Koeman? (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)Having failed to win their first game of the World Cup against Japan, the Netherlands are in a situation where they need to secure all three points today.In that sense, it is understandable as to why Koeman opted to start De Jong, who is one of his best players in the team.At the same time, though, the Dutch manager has been critical of Barcelona in the past regarding rushing the 29-year-old star back to action after fitness problems only to now do the same himself.With Barcelona already sweating over the injury blow to Raphinha during Brazil’s match and Ronald Araujo’s fitness issue, they will be closely monitoring De Jong’s condition and performance today.

Ruben Amorim is about to do Liverpool a massive favourLiverpool have already been linked with a whole host of new players this summer. The Anfield outfit are in dire need of reinforcements after their performances from the 2025-26 season were less than ideal.Most people thought they'd be challenging for the Premier League title but, in reality, they only just scraped Champions League qualification.Now, this wasn't because of a lack of quality among their ranks as, during the summer, they spent over £450 million.However, things such as injuries and a lack of cohesion clearly affected the way that things panned out and, now that Andoni Iraola is in charge, even more change is on the way.But, since almost every other big club in the world wants the same players Liverpool do, deals aren't going to be straight forward with former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim now actually doing the Reds a favour.Ruben Amorim wants to sign Francisco Trincao for AC MilanOne of the main areas that Liverpool need to upgrade this summer is their attack.Now that Mohamed Salah is gone and Hugo Ekitike is out injured, Iraola clearly needs some new attackers to help get his team back on track.Indeed, Victor Munoz has already been signed as an option for Liverpool to use but, with the future of Cody Gakpo under scrutiny, there could be even more changes on the way.This lack of knowing has led to many attackers being linked with a Liverpool move including Juventus' Francisco Trincao.La Gazzetta dello Sport sharing an insight into the Portugal international's future."Up front, Francisco Trincao, another of Amorim's players at Sporting, remains a strong candidate," they wrote.Why Ruben Amorim is doing Liverpool a favour by trying to sign Francisco TrincaoAlthough Trincao is an exceptional player, there are better options on the market for Liverpool.The attacker is 26 years old and, since Juventus don't want to sell him, he'll command a rather hefty fee despite not having the best of seasons this term.Other targets such as Yan Diomande would be much better options for Liverpool to explore because, even though he'd be double the price, he has much more potential and is already a much better player.And, if Amorim takes the option of Trincao off the market by making a move for him after Rafael Leao is sold, it means that Liverpool could be forced into moving forward with a deal for Diomande.The Ivorian is the exact sort of player that Liverpool need this season as, even though he's only played in the Bundesliga for one season, his quality is evident.Indeed, Trincao could hit the ground running easier since he's more experienced but, on the face of things, making a move for Diomande makes the most sense out of all their recently-linked players.Even if he will end up costing the club an arm and a leg.

Women's T20 World Cup, Group 1, SouthamptonAustralia 219-6 (20 overs): Mooney 74 (42), Gardner 58 (32); Zwilling 3-52Netherlands 121-3 (20 overs): De Leede 56* (57); Garth 2-20Australia won by 98 runsScorecard;TablesBeth Mooney smashed a half-century but retired hurt as Australia completed a comfortable 98-run victory over the Netherlands to maintain their unbeaten start to the Women's T20 World Cup.Mooney top-scored with 74 (42) while Ash Gardner struck 58 (32) and Georgia Wareham crashed an 18-ball 41 as Australia piled on 219-6 to equal the highest total at a Women's T20 World Cup – set by England against Sri Lanka earlier in the tournament.However, she pulled up after running two at the end of the 14th over and immediately left the field.She did not return to keep wicket due to back stiffness and with emergency wicketkeeper Phoebe Litchfield also absent due to a quad injury, Georgia Voll took the gloves.The 22-year-old was quickly involved, moving sharply across first slip to remove Phebe Molkenboer in the second over as Kim Garth struck twice in the powerplay to restrict the Netherlands to 27-2 after six overs. Although Netherlands captain Babette de Leede (56 off 57) scored an unbeaten half-century in her 100th T20I and shared a determined 96-run partnership with Sterre Kalis (44 off 43), Australia's total was always out of reach. Earlier, Mooney and Voll flew out of the blocks to bring up Australia's 50 inside five overs before Iris Zwilling and Heather Siegers struck in quick succession to remove Voll and Ellyse Perry before the end of the powerplay.Mooney combined with Gardner, returning from a sprained ankle which kept her out against Bangladesh, for a 101-run third-wicket stand off 55 balls.Gardner departed two balls after Mooney, holing out to Kalis in the deep, but although wickets fell regularly in the final five overs, Wareham's 41-run cameo, which included eight fours, powered Australia beyond 200.Pakistan knocked out after Bangladesh defeat In the second game of the day at Southampton, Bangladesh produced a fine all-round performance to eliminate Pakistan. They successfully defended 124 as spinners Nahida Akter and Sanjida Akther Maghla took three wickets each, restricting Pakistan to 100-8. Pakistan started positively as openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza added 49 for the first wicket before a collapse of eight wickets for 31 runs. Earlier, Bangladesh's batting had also stuttered to 92-6 but they were rescued by Shorna Akter's unbeaten 39 from 22 balls which led them to 123-6, after contributions of 36 and 22 from skipper Nigar Sultana Joty and Sobhana Mostary. All-rounder and captain Fatima Sana, who this week became the first Pakistani woman to sign a Hundred deal, was the pick of the bowlers with 2-18 but only managed 10 with the bat.Bangladesh move to third in the table but they still face a very difficult task in order to qualify with India and South Africa still to play. Notifications, social media and more with BBC Sport

Photo by Craig Melvin/WWE via Getty ImagesWWE seems to have gone back to the safe territory of running the Bloodline storyline for a second time in recent months.After building up Jacob Fatu and Roman Reigns, things have settled into a new normal after Fatu acknowledged Reigns after losing to him at Clash in Italy.With both Jimmy and Jey Uso onboard with Reigns and Fatu and a developing story with Solo Sikoa and his ‘MFTs’, it’s left WWE with plenty of wiggle room in terms of storytelling.Indeed, according to reports, WWE are apparently going all in on the Bloodline 2.0 story.WWE to keep pushing the Bloodline with potential for a new arrivalWith Roman Reigns clearly THE guy in WWE still, there is little reason to believe that the company will slow down on his and his family’s push anytime soon.Indeed, according to reports in the IWC, WWE are indeed delighted with how things are going.Photo by Joe Maher/WWE via Getty ImagesIt’s claimed that company insiders feel the addition of Fatu to such a prominent role within the story has left those higher up feeling happy with how things are going and as of right now, plans are afoot to keep the momentum going into SummerSlam and the rest of 2026 at least.Further, there are also suggestions we could see another new Bloodline member arrive on the scene.Zilla Fatu has long been rumoured to be on WWE’s list of potential signings and his name is being mentioned once again.Quite how, when, and where Zilla would fit into proceedings is yet to be known.But with SummerSlam approaching, Jey Uso in the King of the Ring final and then it being all about the slow build to WrestleMania, it looks like we’re in it for the long haul with the Bloodline again.READ MORE: https://www.hitc.com/john-cena-says-why-he-actually-hopes-wwe-fans-forget-all-about-him-in-the-future/

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JUNE 15: MacKenzie Gore #1 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Minnesota Twins during the first inning at Globe Life Field on June 15, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) | Getty Images Texas Rangers lineup for June 20, 2026 against the San Diego Padres: starting pitchers are MacKenzie Gore for the Rangers and Walker Buehler for the Padres.Texas will look to build on last night’s win against San Diego. They will be doing so with MacKenzie Gore making the start instead of Nathan Eovaldi, who has been scratched due to knee soreness. Jarred Kelenic gets his first start as a Ranger.The lineup:Pederson — DHJung — 3BLangford — CFNimmo — RFDuran — SSKelenic — LFBurger — 1BLopez — 2BHigashioka — C3:05 p.m. Central start time. Rangers are -131 favorites.

The Republicans have been running a campaign to claim that Texas state Rep. James Talarico (D) is secretly a trans woman. While there wouldn’t be anything wrong with Talarico being trans, the Republicans clearly think there is. The attacks are based on transphobia and homophobia, but beyond that, they are so bizarre and devoid of any sort of truth that, instead, the whole thing highlights just how bad things are for Republicans under Donald Trump. Ad hominem attacks are nothing new in politics. Trump’s nicknames for political rivals (and allies, for that matter) are just a very childish version of it. But such attacks are traditionally based on at least some distant level of truth or policy. For Republicans today, it appears that they are simply desperate for any distraction from Trump’s numerous scandals and poor running of the country. Related Nancy Mace & Sarah McBride show that the biggest fights are still to come Talarico is the Democratic candidate for a Senate seat this November, having beaten Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) in a primary at the start of March. In any other year, a Democrat running statewide in Texas would be a long shot, but polls suggest it’s a real possibility that Talarico could become the first Democratic senator from Texas at all since 1993. With Talarico running against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, he is a particularly harsh thorn for the Republicans, so they have been looking for any way possible to discredit him. Dive deeper every day Join our newsletter for thought-provoking commentary that goes beyond the surface of LGBTQ+ issues Subscribe to our Newsletter today That’s been difficult, as Talarico really entered the national consciousness in a middle-finger-by-proxy to Trump. Ahead of his primary win, Talarico was scheduled to appear on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, but, for the first time, CBS told Stephen Colbert he couldn’t have the political candidate on, a decision that came only after its parent company was purchased by a Trump sympathizer. Instead, Colbert filmed the segment and released it on YouTube, where it garnered far more attention than it would have as part of the broadcast. While it would normally be easy for the religious conservatives of Texas to vote for the Republican candidate, Paxton has been making it difficult. Paxton’s wife divorced him, citing claims that he had “committed adultery.” Talarico’s campaign has also highlighted other ethical issues, including an indictment for felony investment fraud, a report to the FBI by his own staff alleging bribery, and an impeachment by his party for corruption. Conversely, Talarico is a proud Christian who has been working hard to court centrist and swing voters. With all of that, Republicans could be expected to focus on building up Paxton while attacking Talarico’s policies. As a Democrat, he’s anti-billionaire (although also accepts their donations), and that’s a platform that the Republicans are well-practiced at portraying to their base as anti-capitalist, anti-American, and pro-handouts. But instead, the attacks have been bizarre and baseless. They’ve claimed he’s vegan (which I suppose is un-Texan because of barbecue?), but he isn’t. They’ve implied he’s gay, called him“barely straight,” and claimed that he’s made up his girlfriend because they’ve never seen her (her identity is kept out of the public eye for fear of threats of violence). And, mostly, they’ve claimed that he’s trans. That’s especially strange given that they’ve also criticized him for not supporting gender-affirming care for minors. It started at the end of May, in what appears to have been a coordinated rollout of a planned tactic, with a series of strange claims about Talarico that were mimicked by a range of Republicans. Stephen Miller, Trump’s White House deputy chief of staff, posted to claim that “The Democrats made history in Texas by nominating their first transgender senate candidate.” The Democrats made history in Texas by nominating their first transgender senate candidate. https://t.co/KaGDLn2naP— Stephen Miller (@StephenM) May 27, 2026 Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) posted a picture of Talarico as a woman, and U.S. Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) called him “Low T,” a claim that was also used in an ad put out by the Paxton campaign. The whole endless string of attacks claiming that Talarico isn’t a “real man” has all the depressing and stupid hallmarks of high school kids in the 90s calling things they didn’t “gay.” So why is it that bizarre claims that Talarico is trans that the Republicans have fallen to now? Well, it’s perhaps no coincidence that it comes at the same time that we’ve got people on the White House lawn (slash UFC fighting arena) yelling about old conspiracy theories that Michelle Obama is secretly a man. It was once the purview of QAnon and InfoWars to claim that Michelle Obama was a man in an attempt to suggest that Barack Obama was gay, just as it was a conspiracy theory area of expertise to claim that French First Lady Brigette Macron was trans. But in an act of desperation, this has moved from being a weird conspiracy tactic on the fringes to something spouted by sitting governors, representatives, and the White House deputy chief of staff. As we head towards the midterms, it should be a time for Republicans to highlight their successes, showing off all they’ve achieved while holding the House, Senate, and presidency. But they have nothing to show. Failing that, they should be highlighting Democratic failings or trying to claim that their own failures were really the Democrats’, like the affordability crisis and gas prices. But the simple truth of the matter is that things are so bad under Trump that Republican strategists know that’s not going to work anymore. It has become too obvious to the average swing voter that gas prices are high because Trump started a pointless and unpopular war in Iran and cut off our supplies. That, in turn, has worsened an already dire affordability situation. While people are working out how to afford to feed their family and get to work each week, Trump is on TV saying he doesn’t think “about Americans’ financial situation.” Trump and his team are so clearly responsible for so much of this that Republicans running races around the country don’t have much of a leg to stand on. Republicans are having to gamble on the idea that voters will be more ready to believe that a random Democratic candidate is trans and will think that’s a bad thing, than that they’re responsible for the many problems that Trump has caused. Republicans are left trying to rework voter maps so it doesn’t matter that people won’t vote for them and reaching for ridiculous Trumpian solutions. The last time a candidate dealt with lies as silly as these was when Trump tried to tell everyone that Obama was born in Kenya. Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and be the first to know about the latest headlines shaping LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.

Germany will begin their World Cup campaign against the smallest population ever to qualify, Curacao, in an intriguing Group E completed by Ecuador, who finished second in South American qualifying, and 2023 Afcon champions Ivory Coast. Germany arrive with optimism under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, and the country expects much more than their past two group-stage exits. But they face stiff competition from Ecuador’s golden generation, built around Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo, as well as a talented Ivory Coast side who could spring a surprise.Curacao are the minnows of the group but Dick Advocaat has built a solid defensive unit and a team cohesion that has seen them rival bigger nations, and the expanded format of this 2026 World Cup gives every side hope of qualifying for the knockout stages, with eight third-placed sides progressing from the 12 groups. Group E fixtures(all times BST)14 June, 6pm: Germany 7-1 Curacao – NRG Stadium, Houston15 June, 12am: Ivory Coast 1-0 Ecuador – Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia20 June, 9pm: Germany v Ivory Coast – BMO Field, Toronto21 June, 1am: Ecuador v Curacao – Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City25 June, 9pm: Ecuador v Germany – MetLife Stadium, New Jersey25 June, 9pm: Curacao v Ivory Coast – Lincoln Financial Field, PhiladelphiaGermanyAfter disappointing group-stage exits in Russia and Qatar, Germany are showing signs they can go much further this time under Julian Nagelsmann. Their last World Cup knockout game was the 2014 final in Rio de Janeiro, when Mario Gotze scored the winner in extra time. That seems a lifetime ago, but the Germans qualified confidently for the 2026 World Cup and should have no problem progressing to the last 32. The question for Nagelsmann is exactly how he sets up his team, with plenty of attacking options to choose from. Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade will compete to lead the line, and behind them he has a raft of attacking players including Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sane, Serge Gnabry, Jamal Musiala and teenager Lennart Karl. Factor in the experience and quality of Antonio Rudiger, Jonathan Tah, Leon Goretzka and captain Joshua Kimmich through the spine of the side, and Germany begin to look like a team who can go far in North America this summer.Lennart Karl has quickly made a name for himself at Bayern Munich (Getty)Squad:Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Alexander Nubel (Stuttgart)Defenders: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Nathaniel Brown (Eintracht Frankfurt), David Raum (Leipzig), Waldemar Anton (Borussia Dortmund), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Malick Thiaw (Newcastle), Jonathan Tah (Bayern Munich)Midfielders: Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Jamie Leweling (Stuttgart), Aleksandar Pavlovic (Bayern Munich), Nadiem Amiri (Mainz), Felix Nmecha (Borussia Dortmund), Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart), Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich), Pascal Gross (Brighton)Forwards: Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart), Maximilian Beier (Borussia Dortmund), Florian Wirtz (Liverpool), Nick Woltemade (Newcastle), Lennart Karl (Bayern Munich), Leroy Sane (Galatasaray)Coach: Julian NagelsmannStar player – Florian Wirtz, Liverpool: A two-goal burst against Switzerland in March was a reminder that for all Wirtz’s struggles at the start of the season with Liverpool, he remains a supreme attacking threat. Breakout talent – Lennart Karl, Bayern Munich: The 18-year-old has been impressive for Bayern Munich this season and could well force himself into Germany’s starting XI as the tournament progresses.Fifa ranking: 10.Odds to win the World Cup: 16/1, latest odds via the best betting sites UK.EcuadorIt is something of a cliche in international football – and often a curse – but Ecuador have their own golden generation right now and no one will fancy taking on this fast and physical side managed by Argentine coach Sebastian Beccacece. They conceded only five goals in 18 World Cup qualifying games, finishing second in the standings ahead of Brazil, Uruguay and Colombia, and behind only Argentina.Ecuador have talented players posted all over Europe, including Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie, Pervis Estupinan at AC Milan, PSG defender Willian Pacho and Union SG forward Kevin Rodriguez. But their key is undoubtedly Moises Caicedo, and if the Chelsea midfielder brings his destructive best to the World Cup, Ecuador might justify their tag as dark horses.Beccacece is a protege of Jorge Sampaoli and was his assistant when Chile won the Copa America in 2015, before striking out on his own. He has established a high-pressing, hard-working style in charge of Ecuador and his strategy has brought results, with only one defeat after 18 games in charge and a defensive strength that looks perfect for knockout football. They should reach the latter stages, and their match with Germany in New Jersey at the end of the group stage could be a shootout for top spot.Moises Caicedo has developed into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League (Getty)Squad:Goalkeepers: Hernan Galindez (Huracan), Moises Ramirez (Kifisia), Gonzalo Valle (LDU Quito).Defenders: Piero Hincapie (Arsenal), Willian Pacho (Paris St-Germain), Pervis Estupinan (AC Milan), Felix Torres (Internacional), Joel Ordonez (Club Brugge), Jackson Porozo (Tijuana), Angelo Preciado (Atletico Mineiro)Midfielders: Moises Caicedo (Chelsea), Alan Franco (Atletico Mineiro), Kendry Paez (River Plate), Pedro Vite (UNAM), Jordy Alcivar (Independiente del Valle), Denil Castillo (Midtjylland), Yaimar Medina (Genk)Forwards: Enner Valencia (Pachuca), Kevin Rodriguez (Union Saint-Gilloise), Jordy Caicedo (Huracan), Nilson Angulo (Sunderland), Anthony Valencia (Antwerp), Jeremy Arevalo (Stuttgart)Coach: Sebastian BeccaceceStar player – Moises Caicedo, Chelsea: The 24-year-old has developed into one of the best all-round midfielders in the Premier League. There had been concerns he would be suspended for Ecuador’s opening game against Ivory Coast, but Fifa has now cleared all bans for the group stages.Breakout talent – Kendry Paez, River Plate: The 19-year-old, who already has 24 caps for his country, was snapped up by Chelsea last summer before spending time on loan at Strasbourg and River Plate this season. His dribbling will be an important outlet for Ecuador. Fifa ranking: 23.Odds to win the World Cup: 100/1.Ivory CoastTwelve years after Ivory Coast last qualified for the World Cup, they’re back, aiming to escape their group for the first time after finishing third in each tournament between 2006 and 2014. A 93rd minute penalty by Greece’s Georgis Samaras knocked out the Ivorians in Brazil, and they have not returned to a World Cup since.In those days, players like Didier Drogba, Yaya Toure and Salamon Kalou gave Ivory Coast the quality to push European and South American giants close. Now a talented new generation can take the country to the knockout rounds, and both Germany and Ecuador will be wary of Les Elephants.Emerse Fae was memorably parachuted into the job during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, leading the team to surprise continental glory. His record of only five defeats in 31 games suggests it was no fluke, and March friendly wins over South Korea (in Milton Keynes, obviously) and Scotland pointed to a team full of confidence. Perhaps Fae’s most difficult task is deciding who to leave on the bench. Nicolas Pepe and Amad Diallo are options on the right wing; the exciting Yan Diomande and Simon Adingra will compete on the left; Oumar Diakite, Evann Guessand and Sebastien Haller can lead the line. Whoever he chooses, Ivory Coast will be typically fast, powerful and technically gifted, with plenty in reserve should Fae need to change a game.Amad Diallo in action during a friendly win over Scotland (Getty)Squad:Goalkeepers: Yahia Fofana (Rizespor), Mohamed ​Kone (Charleroi), Alban Lafont (Panathinaikos)Defenders: Emmanuel Agbadou (Wolves), Christopher Operi (Istanbul Basaksehir), Ousmane Diomande (Sporting), Guela Doue (Strasbourg), Ghislain Konan (Gil Vicente), Odilon Kossonou (Atalanta), Evan Ndicka (Roma), Wilfried Singo (Galatasaray)Midfielders: Seko Fofana (Rennes), Parfait Guiagon (Charleroi), Franck Kessie (Al Ahli), Christ Oulai (Trabzonspor), Ibrahim Sangare (Nottingham Forest), Jean-Michael Seri (Maribor)Forwards: Simon ‌Adingra (Monaco), Ange-Yoan ​Bonny (Inter Milan), Amad Diallo (Manchester United), Oumar ‌Diakite (Cercle Brugge), Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig), Evann ​Guessand (Aston Villa), Nicolas Pepe (Villarreal), Bazoumana Toure (Hoffenheim), Elye Wahi (Nice)Coach: Emerse FaeStar player – Ousmane Diomande, Sporting: The Sporting centre-back is the complete defender, with pace, strength and the skill to break lines and carry the ball himself. Breakout talent – Yan Diomande, RB Leipzig: The 19-year-old might already be too good for the ‘breakout’ tag, given he has performed so impressively in the Bundesliga and the Africa Cup of Nations this season. But a big World Cup can elevate him to another level, and big clubs across Europe will be watching.Fifa ranking: 34.Odds to win the World Cup: 300/1.CuracaoThe smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup has a population of 150,000, about the same size as Northampton. But Curacao punched above their weight in qualifying, going unbeaten throughout to book themselves a spot in North America.Curacao has taken advantage of its close relationship with the Netherlands since gaining independence from the Dutch in 2010, with many of their players developing in Eredevisie academies. Players like Lenadro Bacuna and Tahith Chong could have qualified for the Netherlands but were persuaded to commit their allegiance to the Caribbean island. Legendary Dutch coach Dick Advocaat steered Curacao through qualification before quitting the job to spend time with his unwell daughter. But on the eve of the tournament, the 78-year-old returned, with his brief replacement Fred Rutten resigning amid discontent among some players and sponsors about Advocaat’s departure. He will become the oldest man to manage at a World Cup.They are the underdogs in Group E, and their goal is to pinch a shock result against either Germany or Ecuador, and set up a showdown with Ivory Coast to sneak through to the knockout rounds. Curacao celebrate qualifying for the World Cup (AFP/Getty)Squad:Goalkeepers: Tyrick Bodak (SC Telstar), Trevor Doornbusch (VVV-Venlo), Eloy Room (Miami FC)Defenders: Riechedly Bazoer (Konyaspor), Joshua Brenet (Kayserispor), Roshon Van Eijma (RKC Waalwijk), Sherel Floranus (PEC Zwolle), Deveron Fonville (NEC Nijmegen), Jurien Gaari (Abha Club), Armando Obispo (PSV Eindhoven), Shurandy Sambo (Sparta Rotterdam)Midfielders: Juninho Bacuna (FC Volendam), Leandro Bacuna (Igdir), Livano Comenencia (FC Zurich), Kevin Felida (FC Den Bosch), Ar’Jany Martha (Rotherham), Tyrese Noslin (SC Telstar), Godfried Roemeratoe (RKC Waalwijk)Forwards: Jeremy Antonisse (AE Kifisia), Tahith Chong (Sheffield United), Kenji Gorre (Maccabi Haifa), Sontje Hansen (Middlesbrough), Gervane Kastaneer (Terengganu), Brandley Kuwas (FC Volendam), Jurgen Locadia (Miami FC), Jearl Margaritha (SK Beveren)Coach: Dick AdvocaatStar player – Leandro Bacuna, Igdir: The former Aston Villa midfielder now plays in the Turkish second tier but the 34-year-old is Curacao’s captain and has been a cornerstone of the team’s success under Advocaat.Breakout talent – Livano Comenencia, FC Zurich. Curacao are not blessed with young talent, partly as a result of luring older players who have not broken into the Dutch national team, but one to watch is 22-year-old right-sided player Comenencia, who developed in PSV’s academy before joining Juventus and then Zurich, and played through the Netherlands age groups before committing to Curacao in 2024. Fifa ranking: 82.Odds to win the World Cup: 5000/1.Group E predictionGermany should have enough to win the group despite fierce competition from Ecuador, who will be pipped into second place. Ivory Coast can expect to finish third, with Curacao bottom of the pile.

Jun. 20—True story: Tej Bhagra spends most of his days at home clutching and swinging his tennis racquet."It drives me nuts," his mother, Anjali, said with a warm smile. "He's swinging that racquet all the time."He has swung it so much and with such confidence and skill, that Bhagra — an 18-year-old who graduated from Mayo High School earlier this month — has skyrocketed all the way to a No. 19 boys tennis ranking out of his 2026 graduating class, all tennis-playing members of the country combined.That's rare air."He's the best player coming out of high school that I've ever coached," said one of his teaching professionals at the Rochester Athletic Club, Steve Tacl, in his 20th year at the club. "He's the highest-ranked player we've ever had."He also might be the most diverse tennis player on record at the RAC. Bhagra, the younger brother of Ojas Bhagra, another former hyper-involved student/athlete at Mayo who went on to Vanderbilt University and is about to get started at Mayo Medical School, showed Tej the way.The younger brother took his example and ran with it.Tej writes a monthly blog called "Finance Fingers," centered on economic trends and tendencies. This is the same guy who championed the Legislature to sponsor a bill that would make personal finance class mandatory in high school. He did that in his freshman year, and it worked. Finance classes are now a mandatory part of the high school curriculum in Minnesota. This was after Tej and a teacher presented in front of the Minnesota House and Finance Committee, pushing the bill until it passed.Tej also writes a monthly column for the Post Bulletin, addressing an assortment of things that interest him. His most recent one delved into how some of the most important work we do is not visible right away, or ever. That so much of life is built on delayed satisfaction and that we so often fail to recognize things until they are gone, such as our health.He is also a member of the Minnesota Youth Council as one of the youth representatives from the 1st Congressional District. The Youth Council focuses on shaping statewide policies and decision-making processes through youth voices, public awareness of critical youth issues and encourages the adoption of laws and regulations that help youth.Among his most inspired efforts has been trying to introduce legislation that would curb the use of flavored vapes among youth. That group meets bi-weekly. The campaign is called "Love Your Lungs Olmsted." Tej first got the idea when he was 14 and saw kids in the public bathrooms vaping and the room a thick cloud of smoke, as well as seeing extended family members vaping."It's just reality," Tej said. "And that includes some of my friends from the community who vape. Nicotine is so addictive and there is so much nicotine in every vape. Typically, one vape equals an entire pack of cigarettes. It's a copious amount of nicotine and you can get addicted to it."And this is also the same guy who was the class vice president at Mayo. So yes, this is no sit-around fellow. Throughout the year, they fundraise for certain things. That included $53,000 this year that they then donated to the Dorothy Day House and the Women's Shelter in Rochester."It is a huge effort, school-wide," Tej said.Also on Tej's list of things to do is work as a tennis instructor twice per week — three hours at a time — at the Rochester Athletic Club. It's a paid position, and Tej has taken to it.Tej had a number of college suitors after his tennis skills. Illinois, Alabama and Wisconsin were among those showing the most interest.As much as those schools impressed him, the undersized Tej (5-foot-8, 130 pounds) came away most impressed from a visit he made to Ivy League school Brown, in Providence, Rhode Island.Also a standout student, Tej was struck by the combination of academics and athletics that Brown was showing.The team has since hired a new coach who has impressed Tej. Even though the version of players that Tej got a look at weren't connecting for many wins, he was struck by their connectedness and energy."When I watched them, it seemed they were doing a lot of things together outside of tennis," Tej said. "You see some teams that are tight-knit on the tennis court, but they don't necessarily spend a lot of time together off the court. I think Brown has an amazing environment where they have the opportunity to train and become the best players possible but also time to build a life. They don't typecast you as just being a tennis player. Brown really struck that balance."Tej hasn't played high school tennis in two years. He quit after reaching the top of the heap at the conclusion of his sophomore year, Tej winning the state singles title that season.He had to fight to win that championship as a sophomore, Tej coming back after trailing in both sets. Tej was down 4-2 in the first set when he started his comeback and trailed 4-3 and love-40 in the second set when he came back. He went on to win in straight sets by identical scores of 6-4, 6-4 to capture the championship.It was vintage Tej, never giving up in either set and then having so much to show for it."Yeah, when I notice that something is not over, I'm not going to say it's over until it's over," Tej said. "There is no timer in tennis so you can bounce back from virtually anything. So I told myself to just keep fighting. So if you stay on them, they can break."Tej abandoned high school tennis and plays in a nationwide assortment of tournaments that include many past and present college players. He's doing that with a special eye toward the competition he will be up against at Brown, which competes at the Division I level.He's been given a taste of what he can accomplish at that level.He did that in a recent high-level tournament at Newport Beach, just outside of Los Angeles. Tej made it all the way to the championship match. After winning the first set 6-4, he was up 3-2 in the second but had things slip away and lost the set 6-4."I was really feeling it physically," Tej said. "It was the hottest day of the tournament and I'd played four intense matches before that one as well."After splitting the first two sets, Tej trailed 5-3 in the final set."In my mind I was contemplating defeat," Tej said. "But sometimes you have to let your mind think that. And then you're like, 'OK, you know what? I have nothing to lose. Just keep playing. Just keep fighting and see what happens. I went on to win that match 7-6 in the third set. That was a big deal because it was like winning a pro tournament."Putting in a solid effort is the standard for Tej Bhagra.And he doesn't just do it for himself."He is absolutely the most caring son we ever could have asked for," Anjali said. "I know I can depend on Tej for whatever we could ask for."For that, Anjali gives ample credit to the Rochester community that has helped raise him."Tej has had great mentors," said Anjali, putting big brother Ojas near the top of that list. "The community has given him so much."

Jun. 20—ROCHESTER — The legacy of Keith Kangas in the baseball community of Rochester, and particularly at Century High School, will be recognized as the school prepares to name its field after the longtime coach.There were more than a dozen letters submitted to the school district in support of naming the field after Kangas, who coached for more than 30 years in Rochester and led Century High School to a state championship in 2003.Kangas died in 2019 at the age of 62."Keith set a standard for baseball coaches across the state of Minnesota," Former John Marshall High School Baseball Coach Terry Heiderscheit wrote in a letter supporting the naming of the field after Kangas. "Beyond wins and titles, Keith dedicated much of his life to developing young athletes in the Rochester community."The naming of Century's field after Kangas is the latest example of several athletic facilities that have been named after influential coaches. Most recently, John Marshall High School named its track after former coach Ron Werner.Although he was born in Virginia, Minnesota, Kangas' history in Rochester goes all the way back to when he was still young. He graduated from John Marshall High School in 1974.After pitching in college at Iowa State University, he moved back to Rochester and began coaching and teaching in the city's public schools. According to his obituary, he taught physical education at Churchill and Hoover elementary schools, as well as at Mayo and Century high schools.He started assistant coaching baseball at Mayo High School in 1981 and continued to do so until he became the school's head coach in 1995. Three years later, he became the head coach at Century High School and was instrumental in building the school's program.Five years after he arrived at Century, he led the school's baseball team to a state championship in 2003.Beyond his work in the schools, Kangas also coached the American Legion's team, the Rochester A's. He made local history for the team by taking them all the way to the U.S. Legion Baseball World Series the same year his Century athletes secured the state championship."It was always the pinnacle of baseball in this city if you were selected by Keith to play for the city-wide Rochester A's," Jeff Anderson, an assistant baseball coach at Mayo High School, said in a letter supporting the decision to name Century's field after Kangas.Kangas retired from coaching the Rochester A's in 2010. He continued coaching at Century until he retired in 2013.Kangas' legacy is rooted not just in his winning record as a coach, but in the time he poured into his athletes and the field that now bears his name.The letters submitted in support of naming Century's field after Kangas speak about the countless hours he spent fundraising for the facility's dugouts, scoreboard, press box and other features.The letters speak of the care he put into the maintenance of the field, and how he would spend time mowing, trimming and grooming the field — his "office," as one letter writer described it.He would get the field ready in the spring. And then later in the year, he would organize the athletes to help prepare the field for winter.Of those who wrote letters supporting the nomination to name Century's field after Kangas, multiple either indicated or said outright that he was responsible for building the school's baseball program from the ground up into what it is today.But ultimately, his legacy goes beyond that of one school. For many, Kangas is remembered as a baseball legacy for the whole of Rochester."I have seen firsthand that Keith's impacts spans generations — from the players of the 1980s to those of the 2010s," one of Kangas' former athletes, Nicholas Merges, wrote in support of the decision. "Across all these eras, he is universally respected for what he did for Century High School, Rochester Legion Baseball, and the city of Rochester as a whole."

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 21: Andre Jones Jr. #75 of the Buffalo Bills tackles Raheim Sanders #35 of the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter at Huntington Bank Field on December 21, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images The Buffalo Bills have a new defensive scheme, and with that comes new responsibilities for some old friends. The defensive ends in former head coach Sean McDermott’s 4-3 (or, perhaps more accurately, his 4-2-5) scheme are now outside linebackers in new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard’s 3-4 scheme. Will that lead to some surprise keeps on the 53-man roster once September comes?In today’s installment of “91 players in 91 days,” we discuss an outside linebacker whose experience at the position might be his best leg-up on the competition for a roster spot._____________________________________________________________________________Name: Andre Jones Jr.Number: 75Position: OLBHeight/Weight: 6’5” 258 lbs.Age: 27 (28 on 10/25/2026)Experience/Draft: 2; selected by the Washington Commanders in the seventh round (No. 233 overall) of the 2023 NFL DraftCollege: Louisiana-LafayetteAcquired: Signed with Bills’ practice squad on 8/28/2025Financial situation (per Spotrac): Jones Jr. signed a reserve/futures contract on January 19. It’s a two-year deal worth $2.265 million overall. For the 2026 season, Jones Jr.‘s cap hit is $1.075 million if he makes the roster. There are no guarantees on the deal, so the Bills can release him without carrying a dead cap charge if they so choose.2025 Recap: Jones Jr. was elevated for three games during the regular season, and he played fairly well in the limited role he was assigned. He totaled five tackles in those games while playing 38 defensive snaps, equal to 22% of the snaps in those three games combined. His best game came against the Cleveland Browns, where he made four tackles on 22 defensive snaps. He was also a contributor on special teams, appearing on 58% of the snaps in that phase over those three games. He was elevated from the practice squad for Buffalo’s Wild Card victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, as well. He played 13 defensive snaps and 18 special teams snaps in that game, making one tackle.Positional outlook: Jones Jr. is one of eight outside linebackers on the current roster. Bradley Chubb, TJ Parker, Greg Rousseau, Javon Solomon, Michael Hoecht, Mike Danna, and Cade Denhoff are the others. 2026 Offseason: Jones Jr. is healthy and participating in offseason workouts. 2026 Season outlook: Jones Jr. faces an uphill climb to make the 53-man roster, but his experience at outside linebacker, which is the position he played in college, could be an asset this summer. Given that the Bills have a host of players who have not had much, if any, experience playing as a stand-up edge rusher, Jones Jr.’s experience doing so could help his cause this summer.Of course, that experience is firmly in the rearview mirror now, and given the names on the list of players that he’s competing with, it seems unlikely that Jones Jr. is going to be on the team once September arrives. Some factors that could lead to him making the team include Michael Hoecht’s continued recovery from Achilles surgery and other injuries that may crop up this summer. Hoecht, for his part, seems to be ahead of schedule, and his stated goal is to be ready for Week One. I’m not sure how many OLBs the Bills will keep, but for my money, I’d assume that Hoecht, Greg Rousseau, Bradley Chubb, and TJ Parker are all roster locks. Javon Solomon and Mike Danna feel like they’re the next two in line, and Jones Jr. falls a step below them. Cade Denhoff is a distant eighth among the eight outside linebackers on the roster.Does Jones Jr.’s special teams flexibility help him leapfrog someone like Danna, who has also never truly played as an outside linebacker? Will a switch to a 3-4 scheme help someone like Solomon, who excelled in college as a more hybrid EDGE type? Will Hoecht be able to come back and contribute in Week One?Without the answers to those questions, it’s hard to evaluate Jones Jr.‘s roster chances fully. He’s going to be a priority practice squad candidate for Buffalo if he’s released, which I think is the most likely scenario. However, he definitely has a chance at sneaking onto the roster thanks to his versatility and experience in an odd-front scheme. Jones Jr. is a solid backup who could fill multiple roles this season.

Spalletti and Carnevali dine with Galliani and Allegri as ex-Sassuolo director hints at Juventus roleLuciano Spalletti and new Juventus CEO Giovanni Carnevali spent an evening together at the renowned Il Fortino restaurant in Forte dei Marmi this week, sharing a table with Adriano Galliani, Massimiliano Allegri and Giovanni Rossi in what has become one of Italian football’s most well-known informal networking spots.The dinner was social in nature, full of anecdotes, laughter and wine, though in a gathering of this calibre, transfer business is never entirely off the menu, as noted by Tuttosport.Forte dei Marmi is a traditional summer meeting point for football’s movers and shakers, with Spalletti, Allegri and Galliani having previously shared tables there alongside figures including Gianluca Zambrotta and former Genoa president Enrico Preziosi.BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 28: Giovanni Carnevali CEO of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and US Sassuolo Calcio at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)Rossi’s presence at dinner hints at potential role in Juventus new structureThe most intriguing presence at the table was Giovanni Rossi, the 60-year-old sporting director who left Olympique Marseille in February and previously worked under Carnevali at Sassuolo.According to Tuttosport, Rossi could yet play a role in Juventus’s new sporting structure, his attendance at dinner with Carnevali and Spalletti was not lost on observers.Allegri, meanwhile, was in relaxed company ahead of his imminent confirmation as Napoli head coach: a role that will soon see him once again face his former club as a direct rival in Serie A.

June 20 (Reuters) - Days after scoring in Norway's 4-1 win over Iraq, Norway defender Leo Ostigard has become ‌a father, following the birth of his first ‌child over FaceTime as he continues his World Cup campaign with the squad. Ostigard, ​who has been receiving parenting tips from teammate Erling Haaland, provided long-distance support to his partner Aurora Eidmann as she gave birth to their son on Friday. "I'm completely exhausted myself, it ‌was absolutely amazing. She ⁠did so well, there wasn't much I could say, I just had to help her work ⁠and get him out. I'm proud, amazing," the 26-year-old said in a video published by the Norwegian FA on its ​social media ​channels. "When I saw him for ​the first time, I was ‌blown away. It's absolutely insane. I'm so happy and proud. It's definitely the greatest thing I've ever experienced," he told reporters. Ostigard told reporters that shortly after his son was born, the family's peace was broken by a knock on his ‌hotel room door. "Four lads came jumping ​into the room. It was probably ​Sander (Berge), Erling (Haaland) and Joergen (Strand ​Larsen)," Ostigard said. Norway play Senegal in Group I ‌at the New York/New Jersey ​Stadium on Monday. "I ​think it makes me a little more relaxed, that everything has gone well, because you never know. Now ​it's just joy ‌and I'm very happy that things are good, and ​that my boy is out," Ostigard said. (Reporting by Philip ​O'Connor, editing by Ed Osmond)