SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Daylen Lile hit a go-ahead single in the ninth inning after CJ Abrams' tying base hit, and the Washington Nationals rallied against closer Keaton Winn to spoil Logan Webb's impressive outing and beat the San FRancisco Giants 4-3 on Monday night.Pitching for the third straight day, Winn (2-2) couldn't hold a two-run lead. He gave up a one-out double to Luis García Jr. and hit Curtis Mead with a pitch to put the tying runs on base. A passed ball advanced both runners, who scored on Abrams’ single. One out later, Abrams stole second and scored when Lile singled up the middle.Bryce Eldridge hit a go-ahead double in the eighth against winner Clayton Beeter (2-1) after Jung Hoo Lee beat out an infield single. Gus Varland struck out Eldridge to secure his fifth save, stranding runners at corners.Webb, an All-Star the past two years who was trying to win consecutive starts for the first time this season, struck out seven and didn't walk a batter over eight innings. He allowed one run and five hits.The right-hander struck out four of the first five Nationals hitters and retired the first six in all before Keibert Ruiz singled leading off the third. Jorbit Vivas followed by grounding into a double play, and Webb escaped the inning unscathed. Lee extended his career-best hitting streak to 16 games with a fourth-inning single in a game featuring a steady drizzle in the early innings with gray clouds and wind for the duration. He finished with four hits.García broke up a scoreless pitchers' duel with an RBI single in the sixth off Webb, then the Giants tied it on Matt Chapman's single in the bottom half.Miles Mikolas followed Washington opener Richard Lovelady to begin the second and pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings before the Giants got three straight two-out hits against Mitchell Parker. San Francisco arrived home early Monday morning from Sunday night's series finale in Chicago and a 10-game trip.In a scary moment, Lile and center fielder Dylan Crews collided at the left-center wall as Crews made a catch on Eldridge's deep fly in the fourth. Both stayed in the game.Up nextLHP Andrew Alvarez (1-0, 3.54 ERA) pitches Tuesday night for the Nationals opposite San Francisco RHP Adrian Houser (2-5, 5.49). ___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/MLB

The Knicks were unable to extend their playoff winning streak and take a 3-0 lead in the NBA Finals on Monday night, falling to the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3.New York trailed after the first quarter, but scored 42 points in the second to take a 64-57 lead into halftime. Although, they were unable to hold onto the lead, coming out slow in the third quarter before their fourth-quarter comeback attempt fell short. The Spurs outscored the Knicks, 58-47, in the second half and attempted 24 free throws to New York's eight. That wide of a discrepancy was on the front of head coach Mike Brown's mind after the loss, saying he was shocked to see something like it on the NBA Finals stage."First of all, I want to get something clear. Coach Mitch Johnson and the Spurs, they won the game tonight. They came and took the game. But I will say this, I never thought I'd be in the NBA Finals and see a team get 24 free throw attempts in the second half to another team's eight," Brown said. "I don't think I complain much about officials or the fairness when it comes to the free throw attempts. San Antonio is a great team, they're a great team. It's going to lower our odds big time, big time, if we play Game 4 and in the second half they get 24 free throw attempts to our eight. And maybe we were fouling, maybe we were fouling, but they foul too... There were opportunities for fouls to be called. To at least try to even the free throws out. Brown made it clear the Knicks could have played much better than they did, but it was still "tough to overcome" the difference in free throw attempts in the second half."Now, we didn't play good. San Antonio played great. We could've played better, there were a lot of things that we didn't do that we did in Game 1 and Game 2. But to go 24 free throw attempts in a second half... compared to eight. All the shots we took, we got fouled four times roughly for eight free throw attempts. Again, I don't complain much, but I never thought I'd see that in an NBA Finals game, and I saw it tonight. That's tough to overcome when you're playing a great team."Overall, San Antonio made 25 of their 32 free throw attempts, while New York went 18-for-22 from the line. Brown added that the Spurs "level of physicality was great," while his team's "attention to detail wasn't great." He also pointed to allowing Stephon Castle and De'Aaron Fox to get to the paint with ease and the Knicks' offense not moving the ball well as other main factors in the loss."Offensively, we were as stagnate as I've seen us all year. Which helped with the 13 turnovers... the turnover situation, the free throw situation, and our attention to detail about keeping them out of the paint and taking away the vertical threat, not good tonight."The head coach said he spoke with the officials about the difference in calling fouls and hopes it will be different on Wednesday night in Game 4."If they do this in Game 4, where it's 24-8 in the second half, it's going to be tough for us to win... There are a lot of things that we can do better and we're gonna have to do better. But in the same breathe, like I said, hopefully they'll see some more fouls called against them where it's not 24-8. This is a four-point ball game, a one-possession ball game going down the stretch and it's tough to overcome."Mike Brown is not happy with the officiating after Game 3:"I never thought I'd be in the NBA Finals and see a team get 24 free throw attempts in the second half to another team's eight." pic.twitter.com/yk3PDJ8HQh— SNY Knicks (@sny_knicks) June 9, 2026

Who is Sophie Jovanovic? How female goalie makes OHL history with Brentford Bulldogs draft pick originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The OHL's Brentford Bulldogs made history on Monday night.They drafted Sophie Jovanovic in the second round of the league's U-18 Draft. She's the first female player ever selected in that process.At No. 40 overall, Jovanovic is a history maker:History was made in Round 2. ⭐️Twenty more players heard their names called, including Sophie Jovanovic, who became the first female player selected in OHL Under-18 Priority Selection history.TRACKER 📋: https://t.co/jYAUOl9O5G#OHLDraftpic.twitter.com/conSgZr2T7— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) June 8, 2026There's plenty more to know about Jovanovic, too.MORE: Dylan Larkin's trade request points out a major NHL flawWho is Sophie Jovanovic?Jovanovic is a goalie who was currently playing for the Toronto Nationals.She's committed to play college hockey at the NCAA level for powerhouse Wisconsin.She's technically the second woman ever drafted at any point in the OHL's history -- Taya Currie was a 14th-round pick in the 2021 OHL Draft, but that wasn't the same U-18 portion that happened Monday night.Jovanovic's older brother, Matthew, was previously a second-round pick of the Saginaw Spirit.It's unclear what will come next for Jovanovic, but she's got her goalie glove into a very notable door.More NHL news:Canadiens had a trade agreed to, but they missed by 1 minuteHenrik Sedin's son is excelling in a different sportElias Petersson trade plans may be missing a key pointWould the Maple Leafs trade Easton Cowan?Alex Ovechkin's mom is playing a role in his retirement decision

Three-star Chandler Basha (Ariz.) OL DaJohn Yarborough had a standout moment surface on social media last night, at the University of Arizona’s second camp of the summer. In the previous iteration of the event, the Bears reached the final of the 7-on-7 tournament, losing to Chandler (Ariz.).However, it was the UofA’s second big man camp that Yarborough’s team had the most success in this time around. In the lead-up to the seven-on-seven event, Basha faced Scottsdale Desert Mountain (Ariz.) in the camp’s big man championship. With one-on-one pass-trench matchups deciding the outcome, the three-star OL played a pivotal role on the night. [ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]This one-on-one rep by 2027 Basha OL DaJohn Yarborough.” Arizona reporter Adam Beadle shared a particularly dominant rep from the Basha student. They would go on to win the camp’s big man championship. This one-on-one rep by 2027 @bashagridiron OL @DajohnYarboroug@AZHSFBpic.twitter.com/QuZfymdgIs— Adam Beadle (@therealbeadle) June 9, 2026With Yarborough featuring heavily on the day, he was not the only Basha offensive lineman to have a significant week. After helping guide the Bears to a state title last year, four-star offensive tackle Jake Hildebrand announced his commitment to Arizona State. The second-highest-ranked prospect in Arizona, both linemen helped produce one of the highest firepower offenses in the state. Alongside Hildebrand, Yarborough, the tenth-best prospect in the state, according to Rivals Industry Rankings, helped pave the way for four-star Texas commit Noah Roberts. Blocking for the future Longhorns running back last week in Basha’s 7 on 7 AIA open state title rematch with Chandler (Ariz.), Roberts caught two two-touchdown passes thanks to the linemen’s efforts in an ultimately losing effort.Despite an early end to his season seven games with a fractured ankle, the four-star OL prospect has multiple D1 offers. Recently, narrowing it down to his top five, the Bears lineman has official visits scheduled with California and Washington in the coming weeks, on top of offers from Florida State, Mississippi State, and Minnesota.Following the event, which is still underway, Yarborough will be announcing his D1 commitment in the coming weeks. He currently has a commitment date set for late June.

The San Antonio Spurs ended the New York Knicks winning streak as they edged game three of the NBA Finals 115-111 to cut the series deficit to 2-1.The Knicks had won 13 consecutive matches through the play-offs, but watched by US President Donald Trump from Knicks owner James Dolan's box, the Spurs were able to close a tight battle at Madison Square Garden.After losing the opening two matches at home, the Spurs opened a 33-22 lead in the opening quarter before the Knicks responded with 42 points in the second quarter to lead by seven.That advantage evaporated in the third quarter as the Spurs edged back ahead by one and they held on to a narrow lead throughout the final period.Victor Wembanyama finished with 32 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the Spurs, Stephon Castle adding 23 points. Jalen Brunson had 32 points for the Knicks.Game four is again in New York on Wednesday before the series returns to San Antonio on Saturday.

Omar Artan looks on during the AFCON Group F match between Gabon and Ivory Coast, Marrakech stadium.Credit: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via GettyNEED TO KNOWA Somali referee set to officiate the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been denied entry into the United States, according to multiple reportsOmar Artan arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday, June 6, days before the tournament was set to beginOfficials reportedly claimed Artan was “inadmissible due to vetting concerns”A Somali referee set to officiate a game during the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reportedly been denied entry into the U.S. just days before the tournament is set to start.Omar Artan, 34, will no longer participate in the World Cup this summer after landing at Miami International Airport from Istanbul on Saturday, June 6, ESPN, The New York Times and CNN reported Monday, June 8, citing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)."During processing, the traveler underwent additional inspection, a routine part of CBP's inspection process when officers need to verify information or determine admissibility," CBP said in its statement, per the outlets. "Following inspection, the traveler, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry."The government agency added that the rules apply to all travelers, whether they are athletes, coaches, staff or fans.PEOPLE reached out to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for comment, but did not immediately receive a response.FIFA confirmed Artan was denied entry, telling PEOPLE in a statement on Tuesday, June 9, that he "will be unable to train and officiate at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after he was denied entry into the United States.""FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan’s status will not be changed at present," the association continued. "In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country."Artan was the only individual out of 170 officials, including referees, assistant referees and video match officials, who would have been representing Somalia, according to the Final List of Match Officials for the FIFA World Cup 2026."FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications, and has been informed by authorities that Mr Artan's status will not be changed at present. In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country," the organization said, the outlets reported.FIFA World Cup 2026 runs from June 11 until July 19, and features 48 teams playing in venues across Canada, Mexico and the U.S.Before he was denied entry, Artan shared his excitement for his trip, thanking the Somali Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya in a Facebook post.He reposted a message from the Somali Embassy that read, “The Ambassador congratulated the judge for the hard work, ability and good reputation he earned in this international opportunity, noting that his success is a honor for Somalia and all the Somali people. Also, the Ambassador encouraged him to double his efforts and represent his country in a polite, professional and high ethics."“Judge Cumar Cabdulqaadir Cartan thanked the embassy for the support and welcoming, saying that the encouragement and support of the government agencies are important for the development and success of the Somali youth representing their country,” the embassy continued. Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.Artan has been met with support after being denied entry into the U.S.“When I received the news, I nearly collapsed because I had high hopes in him,” Ibrahim Abukar Ahmed, 27, a resident of Mogadishu, the Somali capital, said per the NYT. “Today is a sad day not only for Artan, but for millions of Somalis.”Read the original article on People

The New York Knicks entered Game 3 at Madison Square Garden riding a 13-game winning streak and holding a 2-0 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs. Game 1 ended 105-95, while Game 2 came down to a Jalen Brunson free throw in the final seconds. With the crowd at MSG electric and a title within reach, President Donald Trump in the luxury suites was drawing attention for a very different reason.Viral Clip of Trump at Knicks Finals Game Sparks ‘Sleepy’ MemesDonald Trump made history as the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals game when he arrived at Madison Square Garden for Game 3 on June 8. He watched from Knicks owner James Dolan’s suite alongside cabinet members including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, and family members including Jared Kushner and granddaughter Kai Trump.But it was a 22-second clip posted by Legion Hoops that captured social media’s attention. The video showed Trump seated still in the luxury box, hands clasped, with a slow blink and a neutral expression while the arena roared around him.Donald Trump Zones Out in Luxury Suite as MSG Goes Wild During NBA Finals Game 3 (Video) (Imagn Images)The thunderous boos had already begun when Trump appeared on the Jumbotron during the national anthem, before the jeers turned to cheers as the camera panned to Knicks star Jalen Brunson standing on the court.The contrast did not go unnoticed online. Replies poured in comparing the clip to Trump’s long-running “Sleepy Joe” attacks on former President Joe Biden, with many users labeling the moment hypocritical.Trump had spent years repeatedly calling Biden “Sleepy Joe,” branding him as too tired and unfit for office. The memes spread fast, and “Sleepy Don” began trending across platforms.Despite Trump’s presence, the Spurs defeated the Knicks 115-111, led by Victor Wembanyama, cutting New York’s series lead to 2-1.Donald Trump’s MSG Visit Triggers Midtown ShutdownWhile the viral clip fueled meme cycles online, the off-court chaos told a bigger story. Trump’s high-profile attendance forced enhanced security measures across Midtown Manhattan, including TSA-style screening and a strict no-bag policy for ticket holders. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced a block-to-two-block security perimeter around the arena starting at 4 p.m. ET, more than four hours before tipoff.The city canceled the planned outdoor watch party near MSG, drawing backlash from fans shut out of the area. Dozens were left frustrated as streets were locked down across the neighborhood. The security operation underscored how much one attendance decision reshaped the evening for thousands of Knicks fans before a single tip was taken.The Knicks still lead the series 2-1 heading into Game 4, also at Madison Square Garden. New York will look to rebuild momentum at home, while the Spurs and Wembanyama know one more win levels the series entirely.More NBA News:Knicks Star Jalen Brunson Drops Bold Quote Ahead of Donald Trump’s Game 3 Appearance at MSG[WATCH] Knicks Crowd Makes Their Feeling Known About Donald Trump During Highly-Anticipated Game 3 AppearanceSpurs Rookie Dylan Harper Thinks He’s Made for Desperate Moments as They Enter NBA Finals Game 3 With Back Against the WallVictor Wembanyama Shrugs Off Donald Trump Question With Calm Response Ahead of Finals Game

NEW YORK — The San Antonio Spurs might have felt like they were living in the movie "Groundhog Day," but they made sure not to play a starring role in any more sequels.For the third consecutive game, the Spurs blew a double-digit first-quarter lead, but this time their composure down the stretch – and some sloppy play by the New York Knicks – gave them a much-needed win to get them back into the NBA Finals after two straight home losses while snapping New York's 13-game playoff winning streak.It won’t be "Knicks in four" after all.San Antonio’s 115-111 win in Game 3 at Madison Square Garden was not aesthetically pleasing. The Spurs were outrebounded but, at least for one night, there is a sense of relief that they, too, can break a championship drought.This is the second time ever – and the first time since 1993 – that the road team has won three consecutive games.Game 4 is Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden.The Spurs did everything right in the first 12 minutes, while sprinting to an early 12-point lead. They passed the ball with efficiency, found open teammates, and let Victor Wembanyama cook with easy buckets inside and ridiculous alley-oops that would put Stretch Armstrong to shame.San Antonio had 11 assists on 14 made field goals in the first quarter. Those 11 assists for the Spurs were the most in a first quarter of an NBA Finals game since the Golden State Warriors also had 11 in Game 2 against the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018.Wembanyama was excellent, with a game-high 32 points, adding eight rebounds and six assists, as all five San Antonio starters scored in double figures. Wembanyama became the third-youngest player to score 30 or more points in an NBA Finals game behind Magic Johnson (20 years, 276 days – 42 points vs 76ers in Game 6 of 1980), Alvin Adams (21 years, 316 days – 33 points vs Celtics in Game 3 of 1976).New York did everything it could to help in San Antonio’s cause.Jalen Brunson led New York with 32 points, and OG Anunoby added 28 for the Knicks, who lost for the first time in 46 days after their Game 3 defeat in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks.The energy of the sold-out Madison Square Garden left within the first few minutes, as the Spurs scored the first seven points of the game and made eight of their first 10 shots. Not to mention the annoyance of many Knicks fans who had to show up to the game two hours early and adhere to strict security procedures upon entering "The World’s Most Famous Arena" early after President Trump and his entourage descended upon the city to take in the game.After booing Trump during the national anthem, the Knicks faithful turned their jeers on the officials. New York committed four fouls in the first three minutes of the fourth quarter, prompting a barrage of free throws for the rest of the game and constant chants of "refs, you suck." New York took control in the late stages of the second quarter, using several spurts and poor San Antonio shooting to claw back and take its first lead of the game at 50-49 on a Brunson 3-pointer, part of an 11-3 run that wiped away a double-digit deficit.But that momentum left as soon as the Knicks came out of the locker room.Two straight turnovers to start the third quarter for the Knicks, a four-point play by Julian Champagnie, and a flagrant foul on the closeout quickly erased most of New York’s seven-point halftime lead.New York went scoreless and committed four fouls in the first three minutes of the fourth quarter, leading to a barrage of free throws the rest of the game, along with chants of "bulls---." San Antonio committed 21 fouls, and the Knicks shot 22 free throws. New York committed 23 fouls, sending the Spurs to the line 32 times.Stephon Castle’s last of his 23 points, a 3-pointer with 1:53 remaining, all but sealed the deal, and De’Aaron Fox’s jumper in the lane with 12 seconds left sent the sell-out Madison Square Garden crowd to the exits.The thing that carried the Knicks to their 13-game playoff winning streak was missing in Game 3: balanced scoring. Mikal Bridges scored only two points in 29 minutes, and Karl-Anthony Towns was outplayed by Wembanyama, with a pedestrian 11 points and eight rebounds. Towns spent most of his night in foul trouble and was not aggressive attacking the rim, settling for outside shots.For the Spurs to repeat the trick and make their Groundhog’s Day play turn into another positive, they will need to muck up the game once again, relying on Wembanyama's scoring and his constant presence in the lane. The defensive player of the year had three blocks and affected a dozen other shots, and did his best to intimidate any Knicks player who wanted to score in the paint.The series will extend to at least five games, and if the Knicks can win the next two games (Game 5 is Saturday in San Antonio), the title drought since 1973 will be a thing of the past.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What Spurs’ Game 3 win means: NBA Finals suddenly back in play

How to watch BAN vs AUS ODI series 2026 live: Start time, TV channels and streaming details worldwide originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.KEY TAKEAWAYS:Australia tour Bangladesh for three ODIs and three T20Is from June 9-21.Travis Head and Mitch Marsh both absent; Ollie Peake set for more opportunities.Bangladesh's slow home conditions remain their biggest weapon against Australia.Where to watch the 2026 BAN vs AUS ODI series in Bangladesh live worldwideAustralia are heading to Bangladesh for a six-match white-ball series that begins on June 9 and runs until June 21, covering three ODIs and three T20 Internationals.It is Australia's first 50-over visit to the country in 15 years, as their previous ODI tour was in 2011, when they completed a clean 3-0 sweep.The ODIs will be held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, before the three-match T20I leg moves to the Bir Sreshtho Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram.MORE: Australia squad for Bangladesh ODI tour 2026Travis Head is absent on personal leave and will also miss the T20I series that follows, with a replacement yet to be confirmed. Mitch Marsh remains sidelined with an ankle injury. Their absence continues to open the door for teenager Ollie Peake, who has been retained and is expected to gain further experience at the international level.Off-spinner Todd Murphy, who has seven Test caps but is yet to represent Australia in white-ball cricket, has been added to the ODI squad and could earn his limited-overs debut in Dhaka. He replaces leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha, who picked up a hamstring injury in Lahore. Matt Short has also been kept on following the Pakistan series, and Josh Inglis continues as ODI captain.Here's a breakdown of broadcast details of the Bangladesh vs Australia series from different regions globally. RegionTelevisionOTT / DigitalBangladeshT Sports, Nagorik TVTapmadAustraliaFox SportsFox SportsPakistanPTV SportsTapmadNew ZealandSky NZSky NZIndia—FanCodeSri LankaDialogDialogUSA & CanadaWillowWillowUnited KingdomTNT Sports—Rest of the World—Sports CentralWhere to watch BAN vs AUS ODI series live in AustraliaTV channel: Fox SportsLive streaming: Fox SportsFox Sports offers complete ball-by-ball live coverage for the ODI series.MORE: Stokes' England captaincy at risk? ECB set to investigate nightclub incidentWhere to watch the BAN vs AUS ODI series live in the UKBroadcaster: TNT Sports Live Streaming: N/AThe matches will be broadcast on TNT Sports in the UK.Where to watch the BAN vs AUS ODI series live in IndiaTV channel: N/AOnline live stream: FanCodeFanCode will be live-streaming the series in India.Where to watch the BAN vs AUS ODI series live in the US & CanadaTV & streaming: WillowWillow offers live coverage via cable providers and its official app and website.MORE:'Absolute nonsense': Jason Gillespie rips apart Kevin Pietersen for rejecting Alastair Cook's opinion on RCB's Jacob BethellWhere to watch the BAN vs AUS ODI series live in PakistanBroadcaster: PTV SportsLive streaming: TampadPTV Sports will broadcast, whereas Tapmad will live stream the matches in Pakistan. BAN vs AUS ODI series start time worldwideAustralia (AEDT): 2:30 p.m.Pakistan (PST): 10:00 p.m.India (IST): 10:30 a.m.UK (GMT): 5:00 a.m. USA (EST): 1:00 a.m.Bangladesh (BST): 11:00 a.m.To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

Luis Rengifo struggling with new club, could have short stay with Brewers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Luis Rengifo received another chance Monday.Intending to give the Milwaukee Brewers' struggling third baseman an opportunity to build off Sunday's run-scoring double and sacrifice fly, Brewers manager Pat Murphy started Rengifo against the host Athletics at Las Vegas Ballpark. He batted eighth and struck out swinging twice in the opening six innings.After trading third baseman Caleb Durbin, shortstop Andruw Monasterio and second baseman Anthony Seigler to the Boston Red Sox on Feb. 9, the Brewers' infield depth was left exposed. Signed as a free agent a week later, Rengifo was expected to fill the franchise's third-base void.Instead, the 29-year-old veteran appears to be the Brewers' top candidate to be designated for assignment if a roster crunch arises.Brewers' Luis Rengifo seeks more productionWhen the Brewers signed Rengifo to a one-year, $3.5 million contract, with a mutual option for '27, the team's brass remained optimistic the seven-year big leaguer would hold down the position. From 2022-24, after all, Rengifo compiled a combined .754 OPS, with 20-20 potential.In 52 games this season, he entered Monday batting .202 with zero home runs and three stolen bases. He had a minus-0.4 WAR.If the Brewers decide to DFA Rengifo, infielders Joey Ortiz and David Hamilton could form a third-base platoon as a short-term fix. More MLB news: Is Jahmai Jones' Tigers roster spot threatened by prospect Max Anderson?Mets' Carson Benge gets off day after creating unique MLB history against PadresAngels' Sebastian Rivero becomes sixth No. 9 hitter to accomplish feat since 1920Is Astros' Yordan Alvarez slugging way to AL Triple Crown?

2026-06-09T04:43:24Z DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The pilots of a helicopter that crashed around the Strait of Hormuz are “fine,” U.S. President Donald Trump said late Monday.Trump made the comments to journalists after watching the NBA Finals in New York while at John F. Kennedy International Airport.The New York Times first reported that a U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter went down near the strait in unclear circumstances.The crash came after Iran and Israel exchanged fire on Monday, imperiling talks over solidifying a shaky ceasefire in the Iran war.___AP writer Michelle L. Price in New York contributed to this report.

Luuk van Middelaar, a Dutch scholar, is emerging as the continent’s master strategist.

NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli's ODI future has once again become a topic of discussion after the batting great was ruled out of India's upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury sustained during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL 2026 title-winning campaign.With Kohli now playing only ODI cricket for India following his retirement from Tests and T20Is, scientific astrologer Greenstone Lobo has offered a bold prediction on the former captain's future, his World Cup ambitions and the final phase of his illustrious career.Lobo began by praising Kohli's remarkable longevity and achievements."Virat Kohli, what a man, what a player. Very close to the age of 40, he's doing wonders. How is his future going to be is what we're going to be astrologically talking in this video."According to Lobo, Kohli belongs to a generation blessed with extraordinary astrological alignments."Virat Kohli has got a phenomenal horoscope is you know just stating the obvious right. Probably he was born in the year 1986 or 87 and not 88 because 86-87 was the time when some of the greatest in the world were born. It can be even Rohit Sharma, 87 born or a Djokovic or a Messi you know for that matter.""So that was the time when Uranus was in the deepest exaltation. Neptune was in an extremely powerful position. Planet X and Z, all those bodies were in super exaltation and that makes a legend who has an enduring legacy and that is exactly what Virat Kohli had."Kohli's absence from the Afghanistan series comes at a time when every ODI appearance is being closely monitored. The 37-year-old now features exclusively in the 50-over format for India.His last ODI series came against New Zealand in January, where he was India's highest run-scorer with 240 runs at an average of 80 and a strike rate of 105.26 despite India losing the series 2-1.The former captain has already experienced World Cup heartbreak as skipper, having led India in both the ODI and T20 World Cups without lifting the trophy. However, he was part of India's triumphant T20 World Cup campaign under Rohit Sharma and also the Champions Trophy-winning side in 2025.Lobo's World Cup predictionWhile acknowledging Kohli's fitness and continued excellence, Lobo made a startling prediction regarding India's chances at the 2027 ODI World Cup if both Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain part of the playing XI."Now talking about the immediate future of Virat Kohli, talking from the Indian perspective, so he only plays the ODI format. He's not a part of the T20 setup and he doesn't play Tests so he's going to be only a part of the ODI setup but one important thing that I have to say is that I mean I said the same thing about Rohit Sharma and I have to say the same thing about Virat Kohli.""If Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are going to be a part of the playing XI in a World Cup situation then there are no chances that India will go on to win that World Cup."Lobo stressed that his prediction was not based on cricketing logic."I mean I'm talking about even Virat Kohli. I mean Virat Kohli, he's fit as a fiddle.""Just imagine the way he has reinvented himself in T20. I mean almost close to 40. He has a close strike rate which is close to 200 and I mean probably one of his best in the last decade or so and his fitness is like that of a 20 year old.""So what is there? I mean how can you, I mean there is no cricketing logic why someone should exclude Virat Kohli. I mean it would be stupidity and silly and if somebody's saying that it would be outright foolish to say that Virat Kohli shouldn't be playing in the ODIs because he's a master anchor, he's a master chaser.""I mean you need to have Virat Kohli in the playing XI isn't it if you want to win the World Cup but planets don't work that way unfortunately."'He's done it all'Lobo highlighted Kohli's achievements over the years, arguing that the former India captain has already completed almost every milestone available to a cricketer."See what Virat Kohli has not done, he has been a great chase master. He has won the 2011 World Cup for us. I mean if it was not for his crucial innings then probably we would have lost the match and he has been instrumental in so many historic Test victories.""I mean he was the lynchpin because of whom we could win so many Test victories. We were dominating the Test scene and of course he has won as a captain the under 19 World Cup.""And don't forget the two very important knocks he has recently played. I mean he has of course been instrumental in us winning the Champions Trophy and in the very recent time of course winning the championship for RCB, repeating the performance and winning the Man of the Match in the final and you know leading them to victory.""So all of these recent exploits of Virat Kohli, they show that I mean the enduring legacy not just the recent ones, the enduring legacy and all of this shows that he hasn't been a great. He's done it all."No second ODI World Cup triumph?According to Lobo, Kohli has already achieved enough success in major ICC events and franchise cricket, making another ODI World Cup triumph unlikely."Now becoming a part of a 50 over World Cup victory and winning it once again for India is not a possibility at all.""I know it may break the hearts of many people and I'm sure there's going to be a lot of abuse for me on the you know in the chat box but you know I'm going to tell you the truth.""So it's very simple if India is going to go for Virat Kohli and which they may because he has made a compelling case for himself but my prediction would be that if India is going to be a part of the World Cup 50 over World Cup in the coming year in the next year it's not going to be good for India."How long will Kohli continue?Lobo believes Kohli still has a few years left in franchise cricket and is likely to continue with Royal Challengers Bengaluru."Yes he's going to be around.""He's going to be playing you know for the RCB for a few more years but let me tell you what even for RCB I think he's going to be a part of the RCB team for maybe a couple of years and it will be very difficult for even Rajat Patidar and company to win another IPL if Virat Kohli is going to be a part of the playing XI."Beyond cricketDespite forecasting the twilight of Kohli's playing career, Lobo ended on a warm note, praising the former captain's relationship with wife Anushka Sharma."So yes all good things as I said before also have to come to an end and even it seems that even the Virat Kohli story also seems to be coming to an end.""But then yes you know he has set an example for all the husbands and lovers you know that beautiful the camaraderie and the beautiful romance that we see on the field between him and Anushka Sharma is so endearing and we hope that you know he creates such more magical moments on and off the field and have a very good life in his personal life.""We wish him good luck that's what I can say as an astrologer," he signed off.

Cricket great Kapil Dev has called for patience with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after the 15-year-old earned his first India call-up, saying it would be unfair to place heavy expectations on him so early in his career.Sooryavanshi recently became the youngest player selected for India's senior men's team, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record. He has been named in India's squad for the T20I series against England and Ireland and will also be part of the contingent for the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, later this year.The 1983 World Cup-winning captain described Sooryavanshi as a "special talent" but said the youngster would need time to adjust to international cricket."He is a special talent, give him time, but he definitely showed the talent that he has. I think he is unbelievable, but again, he will have to conduct himself (in the Indian team), have to keep himself fit, and a lot of other things are going to happen when you are part of the national team.""How much he is focused, only he can answer, but to me, he is a special talent," Kapil was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.Kapil said there is a significant difference between domestic and international cricket and urged people not to expect immediate results from the teenager."There's nothing wrong with giving respect to the young kid, but expecting too much at this stage would be wrong; he has just been included in the team. He will understand that club cricket is totally different from playing for your country, it's a different thought process so give him time, don't start expecting too much, just give him time," he stressed.Former India pacer Madan Lal, who was part of the 1983 World Cup-winning team alongside Kapil, backed Sooryavanshi to replicate his IPL success at the international level."This is a very big moment for him because he is a 15-year-old player who has forced his selection. He has got this chance because of his good performance.""I think he will definitely be able to do it because he has the talent and in abundance. Why won't he be able to do it? He is also in good form.""He has played throughout the tournament and performed consistently. He is only 15 years old and has already shown what he is capable of," Lal said.Sooryavanshi impressed during the IPL season, taking on bowlers such as Pat Cummins and Kagiso Rabada.

The Indiana Fever needed a response. Three days after blowing a 12-point lead in an 83-75 loss to the New York Liberty, Caitlin Clark and her team traveled to Washington looking to stop the bleeding. The Mystics had already beaten the Fever in a 104-102 overtime thriller back on May 15, making this Commissioner’s Cup matchup feel personal. What unfolded at CareFirst Arena on Monday night was the kind of game that defines careers, and Clark made sure it went her way.Caitlin Clark Hits Deep Game-Winning Three After Missed Free ThrowsClark had come under significant fire in recent weeks, not only for some on-court struggles, but her behavior toward officials, coaches, and teammates. After a 4-2 start, the Fever were 1-3 in their last four games entering the contest.None of that past noise mattered in the final seconds. The Fever had led by as many as 17 points but watched that advantage evaporate. With 41.4 seconds left, Shakira Austin converted a layup to give Washington a 74-73 lead. Clark then drew a foul but missed both free throws, handing the Mystics a golden opening.Caitlin Clark’s Buzzer-Beating Triple Lifts Fever Past Mystics in Thriller (Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images)But the game was not done with Clark. She started on the baseline, set a decoy screen for Lexie Hull which worked perfectly, then ran off a screen from Aliyah Boston on the far wing. When Cotie McMahon’s attempt to jump the passing lane failed, Clark had the floor to herself. She set her feet and let it fly from 31 feet. Nothing but net.Clark said postgame, “Cotie almost got a fingertip on it. It kind of worked out perfectly that she went for the steal, and honestly, probably the most wide open shot I had all night, so my hands got a little clammy, but still went in, I guess.”Clark finished with 19 points, three rebounds, and five assists, shooting 7-of-16 from the field. It was her first career game-winning shot in the WNBA.Sydney Johnson Physically Held Back Before Police EscortThe Fever’s clutch win came against a Mystics team already carrying the weight of a very public meltdown just two nights earlier. And the chaos surrounding Washington’s bench had a direct connection to Monday’s matchup.On Saturday, Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson got into a prolonged argument with officials. He had to be held back by his assistant coaches but kept pressing toward the referees. He received two technical fouls and was promptly ejected. That only added fuel to the fire, and Johnson continued scolding the referees. It reached the point where some of his own players were trying to calm him down. Three officers working security helped usher him toward the locker room.Afterward, Johnson told reporters, “I lost my cool. There’s nothing more than that. That’s it. Officials did what was appropriate, and that’s all I can say.”Washington came into Monday’s game fresh off that 32-point loss to the Atlanta Dream. They nearly completed the comeback before Clark ended the night from deep.The Fever improve to 6-5 on the season with the win, while the Mystics fall to 4-6. Indiana returns home next, where they will look to build on the momentum of Clark’s first career game-winner. Washington will need to regroup quickly with a packed schedule ahead.

MIRPUR, Bangladesh (AP) — Australia won the toss and elected to field against Bangladesh on Tuesday in the first one-day international of a bilateral ODI cricket series between the two nations for 15 years.Josh Inglis is leading Australia for the second successive series after losing 2-1 to Pakistan on wickets tailor-made for spinners last week.Australia’s 50-over format captain Mitchell Marsh is still recovering from an ankle injury he sustained during the Indian Premier League, and Travis Head has been granted leave for the tour of Bangladesh that also includes three T20s.Unlike the wickets in Pakistan, Mirpur, which hosts all the three ODIs, is likely to favor pace. And so Australia has included Nathan Ellis, Xavier Bartlett and seam all-rounder Cameron Green in its bowling attack.Australia also retained Marnus Labuschagne in the XI despite the middle-order batter having a below-par series against Pakistan.Bangladesh has beaten Sri Lanka, West Indies, Pakistan and New Zealand in its last four home ODI series mainly due to its formula of making pace friendly wickets. The hosts went with a three-pronged seam attack including Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman and Nahid Rana.The game also marks the return of batter Mosaddek Hossain, playing his first ODI since 2022.___Lineups:Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Saif Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Mosaddek Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Tanvir IslamAustralia: Matt Short, Cooper Connolly, Josh Inglis (captain), Marnus Labuschagne, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Matthew Renshaw, Liam Scott, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa___AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

NEW YORK (AP) — Knicks coach Mike Brown criticized the officiating in Game 3 of the NBA Finals after the San Antonio Spurs shot 24 free throws in the second half to New York's eight.“I never thought I’d see that in an NBA Finals game, and I saw it tonight,” Brown said.The Spurs won 115-111 on Monday night to cut the Knicks' lead in the series to 2-1. It was New York's first loss in 46 days, ending a 13-game postseason winning streak.Brown credited the Spurs for their performance and listed some things the Knicks did poorly. But he said the officiating made a difference in the game.“San Antonio is a great team. They are a great team, OK. It’s going to lower our odds big time, big time, if we play Game 4 and in the second half, they get 24 free-throw attempts to our eight. Maybe we were fouling. Maybe we were fouling. But they fouled, too.“There were a lot of things that we didn’t do that we did in Game 1 and Game 2,” Brown added. “But to go 24 free-throw attempts in the second half, that’s 48 for the game, if you think about the way they called that second half, compared to eight. All the shots we took, we got fouled four times, roughly, for eight free-throw attempts.”Mikal Bridges had to go to the bench early after picking up two quick fouls and Jalen Brunson had to do the same in the third quarter when he picked up his fourth. The Spurs shot 14 free throws in the third quarter to the Knicks' three.“There are a lot of things we can do better and we are going to have to do better, but the same breath, like I said, hopefully they will see some more fouls called against them, so it’s not 24-8,” Brown said. “This is a four-point ballgame. Four-point ballgame. One-possession ballgame going down the stretch. It’s tough to overcome.”The Spurs finished 25 for 32 for the game, while the Knicks were 18 for 22. Told about Brown's comments, Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns said the referees weren't the problem.“That didn’t cost us the game,” he said. “Turned the ball over. Didn’t execute. Didn’t do what got us 13 straight wins in a row. That’s how you lose a game.”___AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA

A competitor who was killed taking part in the Pre-TT Classic road races on the Isle of Man "appeared to have lost control" of his motorbike before crashing, an inquest has heard.Alan Oversby, 68, died in the crash on the approach to Ballakeighan Corner on the Billown Course, in the south of the island, on lap two of the 400cc Race on 24 May.Douglas Courthouse heard the veteran competitor, from Bolton le Sands, Lancashire, had suffered an aortic rupture and died at the scene.Adjourning the inquest, coroner James Brooks passed on his condolences to Oversby's family and friends.Advocate Darren Taubitz, representing race organisers Southern 100 MCR, also offered the condolences of the club.Held on the 4.25-mile (6.8km) Billown Course and organised by the Southern 100 Club, the Pre-TT Classic road races took place between 22 and 24 May.The annual event is an immediate precursor to the Isle of Man TT races, featuring classic motorcycles and sidecars.Making his debut at the event in 2005, Oversby was a regular competitor in the races.His tally of 16 wins included two on the day of his death.Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X. More on this story Rider dies following crash on Pre-TT classic race Related internet links Isle of Man Courts of JusticePre-TT Classic Road Races

Kieron Dyer has signed a two-year deal at Roots Hall [Southend United FC]Southend United fans say the arrival of former Newcastle United and England midfielder Kieron Dyer as their head coach is "great news" for the club.Dyer - who also played for Ipswich Town and West Ham United - has signed a two-year deal with the National League side.The 47-year-old takes over from Kevin Maher, who was sacked just two days after winning the club's first domestic honour in the FA Trophy final at Wembley.Dyer arrives after leaving his first-team coach role at Chesterfield, but what do Southend United fans make of their new manager?'Recognition'"Oh OK, cool" was Georgie Swan's reaction when the BBC broke the news to him of Dyer's appointment."The more recognition [for Southend United], the more people are going to know about the team and support them more, you know? It's good."The 46-year-old said Dyer's arrival might "soften" the departure of former boss Maher, but when asked if Dyer could be the key ingredient which gets Southend promoted, Georgie responded: "God knows."Michelle Cummins said if Dyer could improve Southend United "then bring it on" [Jamie Niblock/BBC]Georgie Swan said he hoped Dyer's appointment would bring more recognition to Southend United [Jamie Niblock/BBC]Kizzy Perry has had a season ticket for 17 years and said she was "looking forward" to Dyer's arrival."I think it'll be great for the club - someone fresh, someone new, a new challenge for him," she said."He's got a lot of experience, and yeah I think that'll be good for us - a fresh team, fresh manager, hopefully we'll be on the up."Perry added she hoped Dyer would bring more attacking football to Southend, "but hopefully we can still keep the togetherness, because that was a great part of us".PromotionMichelle Cummins, a lifelong Shrimpers fan, described the news as "excellent" and said "any help is good" for the club."If he can get the right players and keep hold of them and the management and everything else, we'll be alright," the 59-year-old said.She added she had been upset over the departure of Maher, as well as wing-back Gus Scott-Morriss, but said "if [Dyer] can make the team better, then bring it on".Levi Spears, 29, said Dyer's arrival was "good for the club - as long as the players play well as well... it's down to them mainly, isn't it?".He added that Dyer could "definitely help" Southend United's push for promotion.Raymond Burgess hoped Dyer would be able to encourage young talent to rise through the ranks [Jamie Niblock/BBC]Raymond Burgess, 40, said he hoped Dyer would be able to bring better players into the club, as well as encourage younger talent through the ranks."That's what they need to progress, and let's hope that they can do it," he said."I take my kids there all the time," he added."It would be nice to get them back into league football, rather than non-league - hopefully he gets them promotion."Do you have a story suggestion for Essex? Contact us below.Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. More on this story Ex-England midfielder Dyer named new Southend bossSouthend sack Maher two days after Wembley win Related internet links Southend United Football Club

The finals of this year’s King of the Ring tournament will be happening at Night of Champions on June 27, 2026. Whoever wins the match will get a championship match at this year’s SummerSlam, happening on August 1 and 2.So far, Dominik Mysterio, Je’Von Evans, and Oba Femi have qualified for the semifinals. The last match will be held on Friday Night SmackDown this Friday between Finn Balor, Jey Uso, LA Knight, and Royce Keys.The winner of that match will face Evans, leaving Femi vs. Mysterio as the other match. Whoever wins the two semifinal matches will face each other at Night of Champions.On the June 8 episode of Monday Night Raw, Femi came out to talk about the upcoming match despite the rumors of a third match with Brock Lesnar. Unfortunately, he didn’t get too far before Mysterio interrupted him to try to get him angry. Would this be a good strategy, or would Mysterio pay the price for interrupting WWE’s hottest rising star?Dominik Mysterio Gets Beat Down by Oba Femi, but Leaves UnharmedThe past couple of months have been very busy for both Femi and Mysterio. Femi had an amazing Royal Rumble, eliminating five people and lasting nearly 40 minutes before being eliminated by Brock Lesnar. He answered Lesnar’s open challenge for WrestleMania: Vegas, winning easily.Afterward, he started an open challenge of his own, which ended after another attack by Lesnar. They faced off at Clash in Italy, where he lost. With one win between them, there’s no telling when Lesnar will come back for the third match.Dominik Mysterio has also had a good year, despite kicking Balor out of Judgment Day. He held the WWE Intercontinental Championship until March, losing it to Penta. He’s also the current AAA Mega Champion, winning it last September. Winning the King of the Ring tournament could be the first step in becoming a double champion once again.Mysterio interrupted Femi’s promo with the AAA Mega Championship in his hands and a chorus of boos raining down from the fans. Mocking his worrying about when the third match with Lesnar will take place, he said he should’ve been worried about Dirty Dom.He then called him a rookie, which caused the crowd to chant “OBA” several times, showing just how popular Femi has become. Then he insulted how long he’s been on the main roster, said he was a 20-year veteran, and that he’ll rule over the Ruler once he wins the King of the Ring tournament.As he got up on the apron, it seemed like he had an advantage over Femi. His fellow Judgment Day faction member JD McDonagh arrived with a chair. He hit it against Femi’s back, but nothing happened. Femi turned around and stared at the chair for a few seconds. McDonagh attempted to hit him again, but got punched in the face and sent out of the ring.A WWE King of the Ring 2026 graphic. (Photo Credit: WWE)Oba Femi then grabbed onto his hair and tried to force him back inside. But Mysterio, sensing that his friend was in trouble, delivered a 619 to break the hold. He got up to the top rope, but Femi caught him. Then he got sent across the ring with one of Femi’s trademark tosses. It looked like he was going to be in some more trouble with a possible Fall from Grace headed his way.A photo of WWE star Dominik Mysterio. (Photo by Diego Serrano, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons)But McDonagh grabbed him by the leg and out of the ring before any more damage could be done to him. As the two of them headed to the back, Oba Femi had one more warning before their match. He said that even though Rey Mysterio is his father, he will be his Daddy next Monday. With the winner heading to Night of Champions, the match has huge stakes for both men, meaning both of them will give it their all to win.

NEW YORK — Before the massive media contingent at Madison Square Garden could even ask a question following Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals, New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown opened his media availability ripping the officials.After all, the San Antonio Spurs outshot the Knicks from the free-throw line, 24-8, in the second half of a physical outing they decided by two possessions, 115-111."I never thought I would be in the NBA Finals and see a team get 24 free-throw attempts in the second half to another team's eight," said Brown, who is making his sixth NBA Finals appearance with a fourth different team. "I don't think I complain much about officials or the fairness when it comes to the free-throw attempts."Brown did make sure to credit the Spurs, who he said "came and took the game."But!Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournament"There were opportunities for fouls to be called, to at least try to even the free throws out," said Brown. "Now, we didn't play good. San Antonio played great. We could've played better. There were a lot of things we didn't do that we did in Game 1 and Game 2. But to go 24 free-throw attempts in the second half, that's 48 for the game if you think about the way they called that second half, compared to eight. All the shots we took, we got fouled four times, roughly, for eight free-throw attempts."Again, I don't complain much. I never thought I'd see it in an NBA Finals game, and I saw it tonight. That's tough to overcome when you're playing against a great team."Brown specifically called out a play with 2:30 remaining, when New York's Jalen Brunson found teammate Karl-Anthony Towns on an inbounds pass underneath the basket in a game the Spurs led, 108-102. San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox closed in on Towns, and it appeared Fox caught Towns on the arm.No call was whistled. Brown addressed the disparity with the officials following the third quarter, when the Spurs attempted 10 free throws to the Knicks' two. Things didn't get much better.For his part, Towns refused to blame the loss on the officials."That ain't cost us the game," said Towns, who scored just 11 points on 4-for-10 shooting. "Turned the ball over. Didn't execute. Didn't do what got us 13 straight wins in a row. That's how you lose a game. We didn't do what we've been doing for 13. We decided to do something different, and it ain't going to work. Throwing the ball away is a clear indication of how you're going to lose the game, especially in the playoffs."Added Brunson: "We were definitely fouling a lot."Brown agreed. But he sure doesn't want to see the same whistle Wednesday."If they do this in Game 4 where it's 24-8 in the second half, it's going to be tough for us to win," said Brown, who understood how his diatribe would generate headlines."The story is going to be there," he said. "But there are some controllables that we did not do a good job of doing. We allowed them to hit first at the beginning of the game. We allowed them to hit first in the beginning of the second half. We turned the ball over and we were stagnant offensively and we allowed them to get to the paint, and we did not pay attention to detail to what we are supposed to do defensively."There are a lot of things we can do better, and we are going to have to do better," added Brown, "but in the same breath, like I said, hopefully they will see some more fouls called against them, so it's not 24-8. This is a four-point ballgame. Four-point ballgame. One-possession ballgame going down the stretch. It's tough to overcome."

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 06: The baseball cap of the Atlanta Braves sits in the dugout during the MLB game between the Pittsburg Pirates and the Atlanta Braves on June 6, 2026 at TRUIST Park in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Mark Bowman of MLB.com tackled the subject that has grown more popular over the past few weeks: a potential trade of Tarik Skubal by the struggling Detroit Tigers. For the Braves specifically, Bowman concluded that while the Braves would obviously love to acquire Skubal, the high prospect cost for a rental likely does not make sense. As an alternative, Bowman laid out some options that would be at more reasonable prospect costs and can be controlled beyond this year. Make no mistake, the Braves have every reason to prioritize going after a starter with a bit more reliable outlook in playoff scenarios than Spencer Strider or Bryce Elder currently. Alex Anthopoulos likely agrees with this sentiment, as he has been in pursuit for that exact talent for years. However, he is going to have go to back to his Toronto days and outside his current comfort zone to pay the prospect price to get such a pitcher. One way to better the chances of Anthopoulos doing exactly that is for any acquired pitcher to have years of control. While there may not be many available options that fit that criteria as of now, Anthopoulos will explore all avenues to get another significant arm in the Braves rotation. Braves NewsThe week ahead for the Braves includes the White Sox and the Mets, two teams going in opposite directions of their expected 2026 seasons. Matt Powers looks at the top 200 prospects for the 2026 MLB Draft. MLB NewsChristopher Sanchez continued his incredible start to the season as the Phillies beat the Blue Jays. Astros GM Dana Brown made it pretty clear the Astros do not intend to trade Jeremy Pena or Yordan Alvarez.

Victor Wembanyama embraces being a New York villain, but he knows one player is the best originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.In Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama was caught shoving Jalen Brunson. This did not go down well with the fans at Madison Square Garden.It led to a huge, explicit chant across the arena directed at Wembanyama. This was reminiscent of what happened when the Atlanta Hawks and the Knicks went against each other in the 2021 NBA Playoffs, and Trae Young was the recipient of a similar chant.Victor Wembanyama knows Trae Young is still the biggest NYC villainDespite Wembanyama playing in the NBA Finals against the Knicks, it seems Young is still the most hated player in New York City. That just goes to show how much Young truly frustrated the Knicks and their fans during the 2021 Playoffs.However, Wemby could be in the running in the future because the Finals are the biggest stage possible. If Wembanyama can continue playing this way and finding ways to frustrate the fans, he might become the biggest villain in NYC, both literally and figuratively. MORE: The Knicks fans at Madison Square Garden have made Victor Wembanyama the latest villainDespite the explicit chants he received in Game 3, it seems Wembanyama has no issues with it. He appears to be embracing it as well, but he knows that he is still not the public enemy number one for the Knicks fans."I guess. I'm nowhere near Trae Young level, though," Wembanyama said after he was asked about being the latest NYC villain.Moving forward, this will be a massive storyline for the NBA Finals. Wembanyama seems to be unbothered by the fans, but they will make themselves known moving forward. Game 4 will still be held at MSG, so he will probably encounter a rowdy crowd that will cheer the Knicks on.More NBA news:Jose Alvarado goes viral by crashing into former NYC Mayor Mike Bloomberg at courtsideThe rest of the schedule for the 2026 NBA Finals between the Knicks and the SpursThe Spurs have not cut their deficit in the NBA Finals against the KnicksWhere the Knicks' postseason winning streak ranks in NBA historyThe complete box score from Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the Knicks and Spurs

🎙️ Pedri: I didn't know I was so loved hereMexican fans surprised everyone with a huge turnout at the Cuauhtémoc Stadium to watch the Spanish national team face Peru in its final friendly before the World Cup. One of the most applauded players was Pedri, who shone with the second goal of the night and ended up moved because the crowd chanted his name. "It's always nice to hear them chant your name. I didn't know they had so much affection for me here, and it's very beautiful," he told the press after the match. Likewise, the Barcelona player said he was happy with the result and accepted the great responsibility La Roja has after being considered a candidate to become world champion. "It was a match to get a feel for things ahead of the World Cup, and we're eager for that game to arrive. They label us as favorites, and it's clear that we don't reject it; we feel we are a very good national team, but it has to be proven." Spain will make its World Cup group-stage debut against Cape Verde next June 15. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

On another special late night edition of The Dunker Spot, Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones react to The Spurs snatching game 3 at MSG If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com(1:05) Initial thoughts and reactions (6:22) Stephon Castle and Wemby frustrate the Knicks (29:35) Jalen Brunson put in actionVictor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks battle for position during the fourth quarter in Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 08, 2026 in New York City.Al Bello🖥️ Subscribe to the all new Yahoo Sports NBA channel on YouTube!🖥️ Watch this full episodeon theYahoo Sports NBA YouTube channelCheck out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at yahoosports.tv

Manchester City chairman names ‘most exciting’ emerging talent set for Etihad Stadium breakthroughMan City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has highlighted 17-year-old forward Ryan McAidoo as the academy sensation currently generating the highest level of excitement.Club executives have also guaranteed a positive summer transfer window for the Etihad Stadium faithful, with Al Mubarak promising a “smile” through the club’s moves.Despite entering uncharted territory following the departure of the legendary Pep Guardiola, the operational mandate under Enzo Maresca remains domestic and continental success.Khaldoon Al Mubarak – the Manchester City chairman – has named the one academy talent at the club that is ‘exciting’ him most at present.Incoming manager Enzo Maresca and Sporting Director Hugo Viana are meticulously designing the blueprint for the club’s post-Pep Guardiola era, ensuring that elite youth development remains a foundational pillar of their long-term model.This targeted integration of elite profiles coincides with other activity behind the scenes ahead of the summer transfer window, balancing senior movements – including the future of winger Savinho – while reinforcing their homegrown core.By fast-tracking top academy talents into the senior setup, Manchester City‘s hierarchy is systematically building a highly sustainable sporting operation capable of reclaiming the Premier League title from Arsenal.Man City’s next big talent revealed by chairmanAppearing in short-form content released by Manchester City in light of his end-of-season interview, Khaldoon Al Mubarak has named 17-year-old Ryan McAidoo as the one academy player at the club that is ‘exciting him most’ at present.Al Mubarak also said Manchester City fans can expect “a smile” this summer, whilst insisting that the club’s ambitions for the forthcoming 2026/27 season are simply “winning”, in the first campaign without Pep Guardiola as manager since 2015/16.Could Enzo Maresca give McAidoo the keys to succeed?The chairman’s validation of Ryan McAidoo solidifies the left-footed winger’s rise since trading Chelsea’s system for East Manchester in August 2024, having already marked his senior debut in January 2026 with a solo goal during a dominant 10-1 FA Cup third-round demolition of Exeter City at the Etihad Stadium.Five Things Learned: Manchester City 10-1 Exeter City (FA Cup Third Round)Under the watchful eye of Elite Development Squad (EDS) head coach Ben Wilkinson, McAidoo’s blistering pace, elite direct dribbling, and versatility across the frontline have marked him out as a potential heir to the club’s wide attacking berths.With the first-team squad preparing to report back for pre-season training in July, Maresca will be widely tipped to include McAidoo directly in his core travelling contingent for the club’s overseas summer tour in Asia.

LISBON, PORTUGAL - MAY 11: Tomas Araujo of SL Benfica during the Primeira Liga match between SL Benfica and SC Braga at Estadio da Luz on May 11, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images) | Getty Images Bayern Munich has been linked to Benfica center-back Tomás Araújo before, and the Bavarians continue to keep an eye on the 24-year-old per a report from Sky Germany — although a current player would likely have to depart before a transfer move materializes.As captured by @iMiaSanMiaTomás Araújo is a name that Bayern is considering in the event of a departure by Hiroki Itō or Kim Min-jae. The Portuguese is under contract with Benfica until 2029. The price package for him would be manageable. However, nothing is concrete yet. [@Plettigoal, TUdS]BFW CommentaryYou get the sense Bayern would be happy to see another club come in for one or even both of Itō and Kim — both squad players who do not command a place in the XI and are older and have fewer years remaining on contract than a new transfer such as Araújo would come in on. Araújo’s versatility at right-back adds another intriguing dimension to the mix; Itō can play center-back or left-back but if Bayern can bring in Nathaniel Brown — another versatile player but a left-back by trade — then another player who could play on the right would be a perfect fit.However, with no strong indication that either of Kim or Itō wants a move away from Bavaria, Bayern may just have to stand pat and wait another year before adding a center-back.If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor… Join the conversation!Sign up for a user account and get:New, improved notifications system!Fewer adsCreate community postsComment on articles, community postsRec comments, community posts

The night began with frustration and boos, and not because of the Knicks. But by the end of Game 3 of the N.B.A. finals, the team had slightly deflated some spirits, too.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Jose Altuve scored the go-ahead run in the 10th inning on a popout to shallow center field, and Houston Astros left fielder Brice Matthews threw out Mike Trout at home plate in the bottom half to preserve a 5-4 victory over the Los Angeles Angels on Monday night.Christian Walker hit an RBI single for Houston off Kirby Yates with one out in the ninth, tying it 4-all.Altuve began the 10th as the automatic runner at second base and moved to third on Matthews' bunt single. Sam Aldegheri (1-1) struck out Cam Smith and got Jake Meyers to pop out to a backpedaling Nick Madrigal behind second. Altuve tagged up and took off, sliding in safely at the plate when catcher Logan O'Hoppe couldn't come up with an in-between hop on Madrigal's throw home.O’Hoppe was charged with an error on the play, and Meyers was not credited with an RBI.Trout started the bottom of the 10th as the automatic runner on second, but was erased trying to score on a leadoff single by Jose Siri. Bryan Abreu then struck out Jo Adell and retired Denzer Guzman on a liner to left for his fourth save. Josh Hader (1-0) struck out the side in the ninth for the win.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

🥐 Football never lets up, even at dawn: 5 stories for TuesdayWith eyes split between the final warm-up tests ahead of the biggest event in world football and the offices of Europe’s top clubs, the news this Tuesday arrives packed with promising goals, strategic market moves, and off-field decisions already sparking international debate.From the Spanish national team camp to future plans in Barcelona, the news agenda is red-hot. Below, we review the five main talking points driving fan conversations at the start of the day.Spain sharpens its aim before its debutThe Spanish national team came through its final friendly before the World Cup with flying colors, securing a comfortable and convincing 1-3 win over Peru. The match confirmed the excellent form of Mikel Oyarzabal, who found the net again, as well as the flair and sharpness of Pedri and Ferran Torres, who led Spain’s attacking play and filled the fans with optimism.A day of official announcements in MadridAfter the historic papal vigil held last night at the home of Los Blancos, Real Madrid faces a hectic Tuesday in its offices. The club is expected to make official in the coming hours the announcements confirming José Mourinho’s return to the bench and the signing of French center-back Ibrahima Konaté, in what promises to be the start of a deep sporting restructuring following the latest elections.A denied visa shakes FIFA’s officesThe World Cup’s off-field controversy has already arrived. FIFA has officially confirmed that Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, regarded as one of the best officials on his continent, will not be able to “train or officiate” during the tournament. The reason is that U.S. authorities denied his entry visa, a strict measure that remained unchanged despite the referee traveling with a diplomatic passport. The Santiago Bernabéu dresses itself in faith and historyThe Madrid stadium became yesterday the setting for an unprecedented modern event by hosting Pope Leo XIV’s meeting with Madrid’s diocesan community. Before more than 70,000 faithful, and formally welcomed by president Florentino Pérez upon his arrival at 7:30 p.m., the pontiff marked only the second visit by a Bishop of Rome to the stadium, echoing the legendary occasion led by John Paul II back in 1982.Barça plans its bench for the long termAlthough Hansi Flick’s present at Barcelona is fully secure thanks to his recent success, the club’s board is already planning for the future. According to AS, there is complete consensus within the club for Cesc Fàbregas, current coach of Italy’s Como, to become the natural successor to the German manager once his contract with the club ends, initially set for 2028. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Interview: Red Devils President Cho Ho-taeSouth Korea will be backed by the 'bulkeun agmar' or Red Devils, the national team's official supporters group, in their thousands, whether that be in Gwanghwamun or Guadalajara. Expectations may be tempered somewhat heading into the 2026 World Cup, but Cho Ho-tae, the president of the Red Devils, believes that the World Cup still has the power to unite, even with the heights of the 2002 team now little more than nostalgic memories.(Photo by Mohamed Farag/Getty Images)Even with qualification secured for an 11th consecutive World Cup, every one since 1986 in Mexico, enthusiasm for the national team has seen a drop-off. Attendances for home friendlies reflected a disenchantment.Against Paraguay in October 2025 at Seoul World Cup Stadium, an arena that holds over 60,000 and is used to seeing sellouts for national team games, there were just 22,206 fans.Even when matches were moved away from the capital to areas of the country where there aren't too many national team matches, there were no sellouts. In Daejeon for a friendly with Bolivia, there were 33,000 in attendance, with around 7,000 empty seats.Back in Seoul for Ghana, Seoul World Cup Stadium was only half full at 33,256, then for Korea's last World Cup qualifier against Kuwait, there were only 41,911 fans there.But the World Cup is now just around the corner, and the feeling will be different.K League United spoke to Red Devils president Cho Ho-tae to see how the national team's official supporters group is preparing for what will initially, at least, be three group stage matches in the Mexican heat, and what fan sentiment looks like at the moment.How are the Red Devils preparing for the World Cup? How many members do you expect to travel to the United States and Mexico?Everyone’s plans are different — some are coming for one match, some for two, some for all three group games — but we expect around 500 people per match on average. Aside from us, we also expect quite a few members of the Korean communities in the U.S. and Mexico to attend as well.How far do you think the Korean national team can go at this World Cup?At the very least, I think we should be able to reach the Round of 32 based on our strength, and I believe there’s a possibility of making the Round of 16 as well.How would you describe the current mood and expectations among fans toward the national team?Fundamentally, I think expectations for Korean football have become much lower. Even within the Red Devils, there are quite a few people who had planned to go to the World Cup but are now deciding not to. This is a time when the team needs to show results, but since they haven’t really shown anything yet, I would say expectations are lower than in the past.Cho Ho-tae at Seoul World Cup Stadium in 2022Looking back at previous World Cups, do you think the players are coping well with the attention and expectations that come with a major tournament like the World Cup?As I mentioned in the previous answer, I would say they are not receiving as much attention and expectation as before.Do you think expectations for the national team in Korea often go beyond football and take on a national meaning?Yes, absolutely. Expectations for the national team have always been high, and when the public’s expectations rise, support for the World Cup and the national team also increases. I think it gives people a sense of pride in being Korean.Do you think the huge attention from fans and the media can act as both motivation and pressure for the players?I think there will always be both motivation and pressure. If the team fails to achieve the expected results, the disappointment of the public is directed straight at the national team.With the rise of social media and online reactions, do you think the pressure felt by players is greater than before?Since players can directly feel the reactions of fans now, I think the pressure has definitely grown even more.Do you think the expectations of Korean football fans for the World Cup are realistic at the moment?At the moment, I think expectations are realistic. To be honest, there are quite a lot of people thinking, “Can we even make the Round of 16?”Do you think the World Cup still has the power to unite Korean society like it did in 2002?Whether it’s the World Cup or the Olympics, I think these events still have the power to unite Korea. Especially in times like these, I feel that kind of unity is needed more than ever.As interest and expectations surrounding the national team grow, do you think the burden on players has also increased compared to the past?Of course. The greater the expectations and attention, the greater the sense of responsibility becomes. Especially now, with so many overseas-based players and what people call a “golden generation,” if the results are poor, the disappointment becomes even bigger, and that criticism will naturally be directed toward the players as well.Cho Ho-tae in Jordan in 2024Do you think every Korean World Cup team is naturally compared to the achievements of the 2002 national team?Because 2002 was our best-ever result, I think many people still think back to that time. But the circumstances are very different now, and since this is an away World Cup, the reality is much more difficult in many ways.Do you think those expectations and comparisons can also have a positive effect on the development of Korean football?I think expectations increase people’s interest in football. In that sense, everyone involved in football works harder to live up to that interest and expectation, and I believe that helps the development of Korean football a great deal.

Marcus Rashford: One stumbling block stopping Bayern raid With plans to strengthen all areas of the pitch, Manchester United need to be ruthless when it comes to player sales this summer.This is especially true when it comes to players who spent last season on loan. So far, only Rasmus Hojlund has agreed to join Napoli on a permanent basis.Both Andre Onana and Marcus Rashford have yet to find a permanent home and there are murmurs that the duo could return to Manchester for pre-season.This is a scenario Michael Carrick will be keen to avoid, which explains why INEOS changed their stance regarding the Mancunian.Barcelona employing all sorts of tricksBarcelona had the option of turning the Englishman‘s loan into a permanent move for a mere £26 million, a negligible fee considering the impact he had on the pitch as the Catalans clinched the La Liga title.However, the Camp Nou outfit have been dilly-dallying over paying the fee, asking for another loan extension or for the Red Devils to reduce their asking price.Initially, INEOS stood firm, but with the entry of multiple Premier League sides in the race and the very real fear of Barcelona moving on, they have taken a U-turn and are now open to a cut-price sale.Bayern Munich are looking for a left-winger, which will be music to United’s ears, and while the Bavarian giants are open to paying the England international’s asking price, they are in no position to pay his full wages.Bayern Munich ready to pay on one conditionAccording to CF Bayern Insider, “It’s very interesting that the Marcus Rashford to Bayern rumours are up and running again! When I spoke to Bayern previously, weeks before, there was always a NOT TRUE on Marcus Rashford.“However, there was the idea of signing Anthony Gordon, but the ex-Newcastle star is now at Barcelona, and so Rashford could now be on the market. I think for Bayern, it wouldn’t be a problem to pay the stated price tag of €40m [£34.5m], which Barcelona don’t appear to be able to pay all at once.“For Bayern, this would be no problem. But the one big problem is the high salary, as FC Bayern doesn’t want to be forking out a big wage for a backup signing. The name is interesting, but let’s see what happens with the other candidates.”Marcus Rashford now has a choice to makeMarcus Rashford is desperate to stay in Spain, and will be hoping for a memorable World Cup to change Barcelona’s mind. If he can agree to reduce his wage demands for Barcelona, he could do the same for Bayern, and the ball is in his court.As for United, they will be hoping for more European teams to join the fray so as to put pressure on Barca so that they can earn a higher fee while also getting rid of his extreme wages.Feature image Alex Caparros via Getty Imagesonline pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

The New England Patriots signed offensive tackle Caleb Lomu to his rookie contract on Monday. That officially leaves second-round pick edge rusher Gabe Jacas as the only Patriots 2026 rookie who remains unsigned.Jacas missed voluntary OTAs with the team, and there have been questions on if he will be ready to return for mandatory minicamp. ESPN's Mike Reiss wondered if the former Illinois standout has been sidelined with an injury this offseason.In that case, the Patriots might be saving him for training camp. But that news would bring about some serious concerns for New England, given the lack of depth at edge rusher. Harold Landry III and Dre'Mont Jones are the top options, with Bradyn Swinson, Elijah Ponder and Jesse Luketa as the depth options.Patriots first-round pick Caleb Lomu has signed his contract, per the team.That leaves second-round edge Gabe Jacas as the lone unsigned pick.— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) June 8, 2026If Jacas' health checks out, he's a player who has the potential to play significant snaps for the Patriots in 2026. He finished his career at Illinois with 35.5 tackles for loss, seven forced fumbles, two passes defensed and 27 sacks, including 11 sacks in his final season with the Fighting Illini. There's hope that Jacas can be more than simply another depth piece on the Patriots' roster. They need him to be a real difference-maker right out of the gate. Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: One rookie still remains unsigned from the Patriots' 2026 draft class

Tottenham closing in on £60m deal for Man City forward SavinhoTottenham Hotspur are making progress in their pursuit of Manchester City winger Savinho.According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham are closing in on a deal for the versatile winger, with discussions progressing on a deal that could be worth around £60 million.Spurs have been tracking the Brazilian for some time and are now working to reach an agreement with City.Negotiations are ongoing, with both clubs discussing the structure of the transfer fee, including performance-related bonuses and add-ons.Savinho has been on Tottenham’s radar for more than a year.The talented winger was interested in making the move to Spurs during the January transfer window, but City decided against selling him at the time.The Cityzens tried to ward off Tottenham by demanding more than £70m, even though they were also working on transfer plans of their own.Tottenham didn’t budge at the time, but the North Londoners have since revived their interest.The 22-year-old has struggled to adapt to the pace of the Premier League but is still considered an exciting young attacker.Bringing him in would strengthen Roberto De Zerbi’s side in two positions, with Savinho capable of playing on either flank.City could be open to parting ways with Savinho this summer for the right price, and both parties look to be getting closer to a £60m agreement.If Tottenham complete the transfer, Savinho would be the club’s third signing of the summer transfer window.After avoiding relegation by the skin of their teeth, Tottenham have moved quickly to add a couple of experienced players to the squad.Spurs have already announced the additions of defenders Marcos Senesi and Andrew Robertson on free transfers. They’re still looking to bolster their defensive options, but strengthening the attack seems to be the focus at the moment.Savinho’s modest four goals and three assists in 36 games may not seem convincing, but a change of environment might be what he needs to bring out his explosive talent.

San Antonio Spurs (62-20, second in the Western Conference) vs. New York Knicks (53-29, third in the Eastern Conference)New York; Wednesday, 8:30 p.m. EDTLINE: Knicks -1.5; over/under is 216.5NBA FINALS: Knicks lead series 2-1BOTTOM LINE: The New York Knicks host the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals with a 2-1 lead in the series. The Spurs won the last meeting 115-111 on Tuesday, led by 32 points from Victor Wembanyama. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 32.The Knicks are 30-10 in home games. New York has a 9-4 record in games decided by 3 points or fewer.The Spurs are 30-12 on the road. San Antonio is second in the Western Conference with 47.0 rebounds per game led by Wembanyama averaging 11.5.The Knicks average 14.2 made 3-pointers per game this season, 1.2 more made shots on average than the 13.0 per game the Spurs allow. The Spurs are shooting 48.3% from the field, 2.3% higher than the 46.0% the Knicks' opponents have shot this season.TOP PERFORMERS: Brunson is averaging 26 points and 6.8 assists for the Knicks. Landry Shamet is averaging 2.4 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.De'Aaron Fox is scoring 18.6 points per game and averaging 3.8 rebounds for the Spurs. Julian Champagnie is averaging 2.8 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.LAST 10 GAMES: Knicks: 9-1, averaging 115.6 points, 45.6 rebounds, 26.2 assists, 8.6 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 48.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 102.2 points per game.Spurs: 5-5, averaging 110.3 points, 46.1 rebounds, 24.0 assists, 8.3 steals and 5.9 blocks per game while shooting 43.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 108.4 points.INJURIES: Knicks: None listed.Spurs: David Jones Garcia: out for season (ankle).___The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

What channel is Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes on? Time, schedule, live stream for Game 4 of Stanley Cup Final series originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Stanley Cup Finals just keep adding more overtime periods with every new game in the series.Game 1 was a nail-biting one-point game where the Golden Knights came out ahead. Game 2 was an overtime victory for Carolina. But one overtime was not enough in Game 3, where Vegas needed two to clinch a 5-4 win. In Game 3, Mitch Marner was easily the story of the contest. He set the record for the fastest hat trick in Stanley Cup Finals history and managed an assist along the way. Shea Theodore scored the game-winner in double overtime. Looking ahead to Game 4, goalie is the main emphasis for Carolina. Frederik Andersen has excelled so far in postseason play, but has seen less success this series against Vegas. Brandon Bussi had a save percentage of .947 in Game 3, which was better than Andersen and the Knights' Carter Hart.Here's what you need to know about Tuesday's matchup between Golden Knights and Hurricanes, including broadcast information and start time.What channel is Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes on today?TV channels: ABCLive streams: DIRECTV, fubo, ESPN appGame 4 in the Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes series will air on ABC. Fans can stream the game live on DIRECTV or fubo, which offer a free trial to new users, or via the ESPN app. Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes start timeDate: Tuesday, June 9Time: 8:00 p.m. ETGame 4 of the NHL Playoffs series between Golden Knights and Hurricanes is set to begin at 8:00 p.m. ET from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.These two teams had never met in the playoffs until this season. However, the Hurricanes and Golden Knights met twice in the regular season, with the Knights winning by three goals both times. It took until the Stanley Cup Finals to see a close game between these teams in 2026. Golden Knights vs. Hurricanes series scheduleVegas leads series 2-1DateGameTime (ET)WatchJune 2Game 1: Golden Knights 5, Hurricanes 4——June 4Game 2: Hurricanes 4, Golden Knights 3 (OT)——June 6Game 3: Golden Knights 5, Hurricanes 4 (2 OT)——June 9Game 4 at Vegas8 p.m.ABC, DIRECTV,fubo, ESPN appJune 11Game 5 at Carolina8 p.m.ABC, DIRECTV, fubo, ESPN appJune 14Game 6* at Vegas8 p.m.ABC, DIRECTV, fubo, ESPN appJune 17Game 7* at Carolina8 p.m.ABC, DIRECTV, fubo, ESPN app* If necessaryNHL Playoffs bracket 2026Click here for the 2026 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs bracket, updated live as series are completed.NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs schedule, key dates for 2026Here are the key dates to know for the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs and offseason.EventDatesNHL Scouting Combine at BuffaloMay 31-June 6Stanley Cup Finals Game 7 (if necessary)June 21NHL Draft at Los AngelesJune 26-27Free agency beginsJuly 1Related LinksLatest NHL news and rumorsFull NHL schedule, scores for 2025-26NHL playoffs bracket 2026

Where to watch Dream vs. Sky today: Channel, time, TV schedule, live stream for Angel Reese return to Chicago originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Angel Reese returns to Chicago for the second time this season as the Dream get ready to take on the Sky during the Commissioner's Cup.Since being traded to Atlanta, Reese has helped the squad become a top competitor in the league, currently sitting at 7-3 and first in the Eastern Conference. In the team's preseason matchup against Chicago, the Dream won 87-78 on the road at Wintrust Arena. On the other hand, the Sky have been struggling, sitting at 12th overall in the league. Wins over strong squads like the Fire, Valkyries and Lynx were promising as the regular season started, but Chicago has only been able to score a victory against the Sun since then.Who will take the win this time?Here's everything you need to know about Dream vs. Sky, including TV channel and streaming options for the WNBA game.Where to watch Dream vs. Sky today: TV channel, live streamTV channel: ESPNLive stream:fubo, DIRECTV, ESPN appDream vs. Sky will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. Fans and cord-cutters can also stream the action live on fubo, DIRECTV or the ESPN app.Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.What time is Dream vs. Sky today?Date: Tuesday, June 9Time: 7 p.m. ET | 6 p.m. CTThe Dream and Sky will go head-to-head on Tuesday, June 9 at 7 p.m. ET. The matchup will take place at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.Atlanta Dream schedule 2026Here's a look at the Dream's next five matchups.DateMatchupTime (ET)June 9at Sky7 p.m.June 11vs. Liberty7:30 p.m.June 14at Tempo3 p.m.June 18at Fever7:30 p.m.June 20vs. Fever1 p.m.Chicago Sky schedule 2026Here's a look at Sky's next five matchups.DateMatchupTime (ET)June 9vs. Dream7 p.m.June 11at Fever7 p.m.June 17vs. Liberty8 p.m.June 20at Wings8 p.m.June 22at Sun7 p.m.Related LinksLatest WNBA news and rumorsWNBA scores, schedule 2026WNBA standings 2026

Arsenal defender closer to joining Real Madrid than Man City ace – reportJose Mourinho is understandably worried about Real Madrid’s defensive situation, and has made it his first priority to renovate the department.He has already seemingly secured two big names in Denzel Dumfries and Ibrahima Konate and both stars could be announced as new Real Madrid players as early as this week.The Portuguese manager, however, is not satisfied and has reportedly asked for two more signings – an elite centre-back and a starting-quality left-back.Two Premier League optionsAs confirmed by Diario AS recently, Real Madrid have two targets to fill the aforementioned voids – Josko Gvardiol and Riccardo Calafiori. Gvardiol is on Madrid’s radar too. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)Both players are elite centre-backs and able options to play at left-back as well, helping the club kill two birds with one stone. Signing one of them, at this point, is said to be a top priority.The reason the two Premier League stars are being considered is that Mourinho is asking for a purely defensive left-back. He is aiming for a system where his full-backs complement each other, and an attacking right-back is best balanced by a defensive left-back.One name is closerThe report further adds that the club have already approved Mourinho’s request to sign one of the two players and is working on the operation.Mourinho admires Calafiori. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Of the duo, however, Calafiori is said to be closer to joining Real Madrid than Josko Gvardiol at this point in time. Mourinho loves the Arsenal defender and would be pleased to have him in his squad.The idea Mourinho has is to have a flexible defensive structure that can morph from a four-man setup to a three-man setup based on the game state. A new signing of this profile will go a long way in enabling that plan.

Argentina '78 - the story of Scotland daring to dream and waking up in a nightmare never gets old. It's a footballing farce, a sporting tragicomedy. Some of the gold is provided by the Tartan Army and the extraordinary lengths some of them went to in order to be part of history. Not the kind of history they were getting, but history all the same.How many books, or chapters of books, have been written about 1978? How many newspaper and magazine articles? How many documentaries? And yet there's still a buzz about a telling of what went on in Argentina.Ally MacLeod's bravado was of Muhammad Ali proportions.Had the manager been canny and well prepared then Lord knows what this excellent squad might have achieved and what impact on Scottish political history it might have had.His confidence in his team led him to say that he'd cleared a place in his wardrobe for his World Cup winner's medal. He spoke at times about how the World Cup final date would come to be known as National Ally Day.World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World CupAlly MacLeod managed Scotland from 1977-78 [Getty Images]It was pantomime stuff and it was infectious. A bandwagon rolled. AC/DC played a gig wearing Scotland jerseys. Blue Peter presented the somewhat perplexed squad with a special good luck badge.Scottish nationalism was on the march with the SNP making record gains. A pro-union newspaper in England wrote that Scotland winning the World Cup would be like "distilled firewater. Hooched up on that, the nationalists could rampage to victory".In 1978, Scots roamed across the British football landscape like gods. In the August of 1977, Kenny Dalglish, whose famous goal against Wales helped secure the finals place, had become Britain's most expensive footballer when arriving at Liverpool. Five months later, Gordon McQueen would set a new transfer record when joining Manchester United.Liverpool had just won the European Cup with Alan Hansen, Graeme Souness and Dalglish the spine of the team. Ipswich had just won the FA Cup with John Wark and George Burley. Nottingham Forest had won the First Division title and the League Cup with Kenny Burns, Archie Gemmill, John McGovern and John Robertson. Burns was the player of the year in England. A fine Rangers team had won the domestic treble.And Scotland? In the qualifiers for the '78 World Cup they'd eliminated Czechoslovakia, the reigning champions of Europe. By that summer, MacLeod's squad had in its ranks almost 60 individual medals, from champions of Scotland and England, to Scottish Cup and FA Cup winners, to European Cup, Uefa Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup winners. His group was loaded with quality.The manager was perfectly entitled to think to himself that they might be good enough to win the World Cup. Saying it out loud again and again and again was where his problems started.No research was done on the opposition. A television company offered MacLeod an all expenses paid trip to watch Peru before the tournament, but he turned it down. In qualifying, the Peruvians had topped their section ahead of Chile and had put five goals past Bolivia, who had already knocked out Uruguay, but Scotland's players knew none of this. Peru played Brazil and lost just 1-0.Hector Chumpitaz (right) captained Peru to an opening group win over Scotland [SNS]Iran were a poor side but no work was done on how to expose them. That was the ultimate sin. MacLeod was in too much of a rush to get to the final to worry that much about how he intended to get there.With a hugely disappointing one point from two games, a three-goal victory over the formidable Dutch was required.When Archie Gemmill waltzed through to score his second of the game, it put Scotland 3-1 up with 22 minutes remaining in Mendoza. However, a thunderbolt from Johnny Rep soon burst the balloon.More than 25,000 people turned up to send Scotland on their way as an open top bus trundled round Hampden and only about 100 were there as they slinked back into the country. The players dispersed and carried on winning trophies by the bundle. The success they had with their clubs just reinforced the gigantic failure they experienced in Argentina.There's a mesmeric quality to this story of '78, a legend of how a man and a country lost the run of itself. The team didn't endure, but the tale of the struggle will live forever.

NEW YORK — In the midst of chaos and in the presence of doubt, Victor Wembanyama, the man among the monks, has always sought out peace. There’s a surreal serenity that often accompanies turbulence. Safety in the eye of the storm. Comfort and calmness.So on the morning of Game 3, with the fate of the Spurs’ season nestled in enemy territory, Wembanyama sat on a park bench with his family and drew. In that moment, there was no film study, no counters to high tagging or an emphasis on physicality. Just a Frenchman surrounded by nature and his canvas, like Claude Monet or Henri Matisse. The incongruity of some of Wembanyama’s calmest moments coming within one of the busiest, loudest places on Earth boils down to an individuality that has elevated the 7-foot-4 center — literally and figuratively — above the rest of his esteemed colleagues. Two years ago, when a young, inexperienced Spurs group found itself in a bout of inconsistency, Wembanyama found himself in Washington Square Park for a game of chess. And two years later, when these same young, inexperienced Spurs fell in a 2-0 hole, his travels led him to Gramercy Park.“Really tried to relax,” Wembanyama said when asked about clearing his mind following San Antonio’s 115-11 win. “The playoffs, it's like a — I don't know how to say that word — a whirlwind. It's hard to put your head out of the water. Sometimes I don't even got to watch the game back right away. I need some time off, let my brain cool down, recover. Recover as much for the body as for the mind.”Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournamentBy this point of the season, the conversation around the Spurs had largely shifted away from the collective to Wembanyama. How would he respond, not simply facing a 2-0 deficit but also against one of the most dominant playoff teams in NBA history, playing in front of the most passionate, arrogant, boisterous fans in the world? And it wasn’t simply down to course correcting from Games 1 and 2. New York just felt bigger, better. More aggressive. Hungrier. Smarter. Game 3 was as much about Wembanyama’s response to Karl-Anthony Towns and the Knicks’ scheme as it was a response to himself. Certain sectors of the brain are emphasized, different components highlighted, when dealing with mental activities as opposed to their physical counterparts. Focus in chess. Attention to detail in illustrating. Wembanyama channeled it all on Monday night in thrilling, emphatic fashion. From the opening tip, it was clear the 22-year-old intended to take on an entire city, to attempt to overthrow Gotham like the Joker. An emphasis on ball screens closer to the perimeter, those both targeting Jalen Brunson and others to shake Wembanyama free of Towns’ vice grip, giving him a larger runway to roll to the rim or receive the ball in favorable areas underneath the nail. A renewed synergy with Stephon Castle — and a recommitment to San Antonio’s ball movement ethos, with 28 assists on 37 field goals — made Wembanyama a rather difficult cover. His force both with the ball in his hands and his command of the square footage around him without it hit the Knicks like a gut punch, with Wembanyama hitting shot after shot. And in the fourth quarter, Wembanyama’s 10 points screamed louder than any fan could, gradually reducing the amount of electricity in Madison Square Garden until he was ready to rip the circuit breaker out of the wall. He walked off the floor to a completely stunned crowd after amassing 32 points on 11-for-18 shooting, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 blocks and 2 steals. Not bad for your Finals debut in the Garden. “I'm sure Victor has numerous sources of motivation,” head coach Mitch Johnson said. “I don't think any of us are surprised or expect anything different than a strong performance and him being on his front foot in terms of being in attack mode. For me and the staff, our job is to help the guys. There's no momentum. There's no carryover. We learn what we saw and experienced from the previous game, and now plural. When you get into a series, you have to settle in. The clarity that comes from watching the tape, arguing with your staff, trying to help the guys is the job. That's what we'll continue to do and we'll have the same approach in the next 48 hours.”(Aside from Wembanyama’s paint dominance, Castle’s control and paint touches were critical in Game 3. The former Rookie of the Year finished with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and provided a consistent secondary — and at times primary — source of downhill aggression. His ability to create havoc underneath the perimeter, absorb contact and finish against smaller defenders remains a huge component of the Spurs’ offensive balance, in addition to his nightly defensive duties.)Eight months into a long, grueling NBA season, the Spurs are an open book at this point. There are no secrets to how they play, what areas they look to emphasize and how Wembanyama is expected to assert himself at both ends of the floor. San Antonio’s defense unlocked a fourth-quarter frenzy, muting Towns’ impact as a hub and limiting New York to just 20 points on 7-for-27 shooting, a combination of Wembanyama’s presence at the rim, swarming on Landry Shamet’s touches and living with the results. Wembanyama, who bore the brunt of blame for the Game 2 loss, dominated the dominant from start to finish. Just like he drew it up. “Not bad,” Wembanyama said with a smile. “Pretty good.”

John Souttar (left) will feature for Scotland at the World Cup this summer, while brother Harry (right) represents Australia [Getty Images]Aaron Souttar was the cooler big brother.Young John and younger Harry wanted their hair like his. They bought the same clothes and the same shoes. They copied his music taste.A talented golfer and a lover of football, Aaron also played a significant role in shaping the careers of Harry and John, who will represent Australia and Scotland respectively in the World Cup this summer.He was a role model in every sense, yet still more than that. Aged 18 years older than Harry "he was like a second dad," says the Leicester City defender."I had him on a pedestal. He was the cool one."In July 2022, Harry and John lost their hero. Aaron died at the age of 42 after a long battle with motor neurone disease, but his influence lives on.Inside the fairytale journey of Scotland captain RobertsonHow Scotland reached the World Cup - told by those who made it happenPatient, precise, clinical - are Scotland ready to make World Cup mark?Tattoo tributes & dedicating goalsWhether it was school football, boys' club or anything that came further down the line, there was a different feeling for Harry when Aaron came to watch."I'd always love it," says the 27-year-old, who is eligible for the Socceroos through his Australian-born mum, Heather."Playing and looking at the side and seeing him there, I was always trying to impress him."The hope was for both brothers to be drawn in the same World Cup group, but instead the family will have to split games across the United States and Canada.Aaron's absence will be sorely felt. "He would be over here with his pals in a pub, drinking all day and playing a bit of golf," says Harry.The Leicester defender and fellow centre-back John will each have tattoos of their big brother to remind themselves of the impact he had - and still continues to have.John has endured serious injury trouble throughout a career that has taken him from Dundee United to Rangers via Hearts.When the 29-year-old returned from one lengthy setback and scored his first Scotland goal in a World Cup qualifying victory against Denmark, he dedicated that moment to Aaron as he battled illness."My brother Aaron, he's at home," he said in November 2021. "He couldn't make it tonight, but that was for him because he helped me a lot during my rehab."A tattoo on Harry Souttar's left arm depicts older brother Aaron taking a golf swing [Getty Images]How tragedy tightened brothers' bondEven after a period of unimaginable grief that still goes on, Harry - who spent last season on loan at Sheffield United - is able to find a crumb of comfort from a tragic period."When Aaron became ill, it did bring me and John a lot closer together, certainly after his passing as well," he says."Not that me and John were ever that close or anything like that, but with me living in England and him playing in Scotland, we didn't really speak a lot."In the wake of tragedy, their bond has become stronger. Texts and calls have now become more frequent, even if it is just to "talk about random things"."The one good thing to come from it, if you could say it's a good thing, would be that it's brought me and John closer," Harry adds.Both brothers kick off their World Cup schedules on Sunday, with Scotland facing Haiti (02:00 BST) directly before Australia take on Turkey (05:00)."It's just great that we're both here," Harry says. "I know John missed out on the Euros a few years ago, which he was absolutely gutted about."I'm absolutely over the moon that he's here. And it's one that the family are all filled with pride with. For me, I'm proud of him as well."World Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

Mateus Fernandes: Man United hold talks as West Ham hike the priceManchester United are accelerating their pursuit of Mateus Fernandes, despite West Ham United hiking the price for their midfield maestro, according to Fabrizio Romano.Talks are underwayThe Red Devils are prioritising a major revamp in midfield this summer, with the bulk of the budget set to be directed towards fixing Michael Carrick’s engine room. Given Casemiro‘s departure already confirmed, and Manuel Ugarte looking likely to join the Brazilian, at least two – potentially three if the 25-year-old Uruguayan is sold – new signings are expected to arrive at Old Trafford.A £39 million deal for Atalanta dynamo Ederson has already been agreed, though a late call-up to the World Cup squad for Brazil has potentially delayed plans to finalise the move. The 26-year-old is an all-action enforcer, capable of playing in a variety of roles and systems, who received the seal of approval from Carrick in meetings with the recruitment team, headed by sporting director Jason Wilcox.Fernandes – West Ham’s 21-year-old breakout star – is next on the agenda for United, though a host of top clubs are also hot on his trail after a superb campaign. This includes Champions League finalists Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain, with Real Madrid another suitor. Incoming manager Jose Mourinho is said to be impressed as the ‘Special One’ wants young and hungry players to help him turn things around at the Bernabeu. Mateus Fernandes Premier League stats: 2025/26 SeasonSource: SofascoreIn response to this growing queue, Romano reveals INEOS have held talks with the Portugal international’s camp this week to assess the viability of a deal: “Manchester United are in direct conversations with the agents of Mateus Fernandes. [They] have made contact over the last 48 hours…to start [talks] about the eventual cost of the deal, transfer fee but also salary.”West Ham playing hardballFernandes is open to joining the Red Devils, considering both Old Trafford a ‘dream’ move and Bruno Fernandes an idol. Conversely, the club captain is believed to have recommended his compatriot to the hierarchy. The 21-year-old is even said to be leaning towards United over offers elsewhere, with first-team minutes understood to be a major factor. However, West Ham are playing hardball over their prized asset, with the east London club needing to raise significant funds after being relegated last season. Fernandes is the most valuable asset at the London Stadium, while Southampton – the club West Ham signed him from last year for £42m – are entitled to 15% of a future sale.This combination has emboldened the Hammers to increase the price for the youngster, despite their descent into the Championship, with initial reports suggesting they wanted £80m. But Romano claims this has now risen to £85m, amid growing interest in England and on the continent.https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2064046044363571213/photo/1Tweet: “Understand Matheus Fernandes price tag has been fixed by West Ham in a meeting with his camp: £85m. Manchester United in contact with player side, more clubs also attentive and keen.”Final ThoughtsFernandes’ profile – a young, versatile midfielder with a potent combination of physical and technical attributes and a track record in the Premier League – ticks virtually every box INEOS are looking for this summer. But an £85m outlay for a 21-year-old staring down the barrel of successive relegations (Southampton faced the same fate last year) is exorbitant, even with United ready to unleash a hefty war chest and a number of elite clubs, including Real, looking to strike. Had West Ham survived the drop, their negotiating position would be far stronger than it is now and these valuations might have held more weight. A Championship club in desperate need of income cannot afford to play hardball, however. The fact that United are advancing a deal suggests confidence in M16 that their counterparts in east London will soon fold their weak hand.Featured image Clive Rose via Getty Imagesonline pollsThe Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr prepare staggering offer for Barcelona star RaphinhaBarcelona are bracing themselves for another major Saudi Arabian push for Raphinha.According to Mundo Deportivo, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr are preparing a blockbuster package to tempt the Brazilian away from Catalonia this summer.The two Saudi Pro League giants are willing to offer Barcelona around €80 million (£69m) for the 29-year-old winger.Backed by the financial power of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), both clubs view Raphinha as a marquee signing capable of further elevating the league’s global profile.The Saudi clubs are also prepared to quadruple Raphinha’s current net salary, presenting the former Leeds United star with one of the most lucrative offers of his career.Despite the enormous financial incentives, Barcelona remain confident of retaining the Brazilian international forward.Raphinha signed a contract extension until 2028 last year and has repeatedly expressed his commitment to the club.He previously admitted that a substantial Saudi offer tempted him in 2025 before a decisive conversation with Hansi Flick convinced him to stay.The winger has since become one of Barcelona’s most influential attacking players.After registering 34 goals and 23 assists during the 2024/25 campaign, injuries have limited his output this season.However, he still managed 21 goals and seven assists in just 33 appearances.Perhaps the Saudi League clubs believe Barcelona will need the money to replace Robert Lewandowski up top.Ultimately, it is difficult to see Barcelona seriously entertaining the idea of selling Raphinha.Players capable of producing elite numbers year after year are rare, and Raphinha belongs in that category.Barcelona may have signed Anthony Gordon as part of a long-term refresh, but the Newcastle United winger should complement Raphinha rather than replace him.Letting one of the world’s most productive attackers leave after securing Gordon makes little sense. Proven match-winners are not easy to find, and Barcelona already have one.

Rescuers inspect a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe)2026-06-09T04:22:57Z GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines (AP) — Rescuers searched ruined buildings in the southern Philippines on Tuesday to ensure no one was still trapped a day after one of the strongest earthquakes to hit the country in a half-century killed at least 37 people and displaced more than 20,000. Only four people were considered missing on official records in the southern provinces near where the 7.8 magnitude quake struck Monday morning, but the Office of Civil Defense acknowledged several collapsed and heavily damaged buildings must be thoroughly inspected for possible survivors or casualties. Soldiers secure a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Soldiers secure a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Rescuers prepare their equipment for a search operation at a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Rescuers prepare their equipment for a search operation at a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More The earthquake centered off Mindanao, the second most populous Philippine island, injured nearly 500 people and displaced more than 20,000, most of whom fled to emergency shelters.Many people who left their homes feared a tsunami. Waves up to 1.4-meter (4.6-foot) above tide level were measured in the Philippines, but the only tsunami damage reported was to six shanties on stilts in a coastal village. Smaller waves washed ashore in Indonesia and Palau and as far away as southern Japan. Landslides and building collapses caused several deaths The earthquake left a trail of destruction, including in General Santos, a lively coastal city of more than 700,000 people known as the country’s tuna capital, where at least 13 people were killed in collapsed buildings and due to falling debris.At least 18 died in Sarangani province mostly in a landslide that buried houses in the mountainside town of Glan, according to Rafaelito Alejandro of the Office of Civil Defense.The other deaths were reported in the southern provinces of South Cotabato and Davao Occidental, and on Balut Island, disaster-response officials said. RELATED COVERAGE Some of the deadly earthquakes in the Philippines A 7.8 magnitude quake in the Philippines kills at least 35, collapses buildings and sparks tsunami 40 About 2,000 houses and 117 government buildings and facilities were damaged in several provinces, according to an initial government damage assessment. The international airport in General Santos remained shut, forcing the cancellation of 63 domestic flights except for those on humanitarian mission. An offshore magnitude 7.8 earthquake rocked the southern Philippines on Monday, killing at least 32 people, injuring more than 200 others mostly in damaged buildings and sending a 1-meter (3-foot) tsunami into nearby coasts. Read More About 6,000 public school buildings in quake-hit provinces must be assessed before classes can resume. The quake struck on the first day of classes nationwide after a two-month summer break and many who sustained injuries were young students who had gathered with excitement for morning flag-raising ceremonies. Authorities have warned that buildings that sustained cracks could collapse due to aftershocks, some of them dangerously powerful.“We cannot force the immediate reopening of schools because we have to ensure the integrity of the buildings,” Alejandro said. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. It was the strongest Philippine quake since 1976Monday’s earthquake was centered at sea at a depth of 33 kilometers (20 miles), about 32 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of Maasim town in Sarangani province.It was set off by movement in the Cotabato Trench and was the strongest since the same undersea depression triggered an 8.1-magnitude quake that whipped up tsunami waves on Aug. 17, 1976, said Teresito Bacolcol, the director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Police secrure a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Police secrure a damaged building following an earhtquake in General Santos, Philippines Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Basilio Sepe) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More About 8,000 people died from that quake and tsunami waves of up to 8 to 10 meters (26 to 33 feet) that engulfed several towns and provinces, Bacolcol said. The Philippine seismological institute was scheduled to commemorate the anniversary of the 1976 quake and tsunami in August by installing markers to remind vulnerable towns and cities of the need for constant vigilance, Bacolcol told The Associated Press.A 1990 earthquake that also had a magnitude of 7.8 left more than 1,000 people dead, injured thousands and caused extensive damages in northern provinces and cities.President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. deployed top defense-mitigation officials from Manila to help oversee search and rescue, the distribution of tens of thousands of food packs and construction materials to quake victims and assess damage to bridges, roads and other infrastructure.The United States, a treaty ally of the Philippines, said it was coordinating with Manila and was ready to support Philippine response efforts. France, Japan and New Zealand also expressed support. The Philippines is often hit by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an arc of seismic faults around the ocean.The archipelago is also battered by about 20 typhoons and tropical storms each year, making it one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries.___Gomez reported from Manila, Philippines. AP journalists Basilio Sepe in General Santos, Philippines, and Haruka Nuga in Bangkok contributed to this report. JIM GOMEZ Gomez is The AP Chief Correspondent in the Philippines. twitter mailto

Graham Platner, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, speaks to an overflow crowd outside a campaign event Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Portland, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)2026-06-09T04:04:09Z WASHINGTON (AP) — Voters across Maine, Nevada, South Carolina and North Dakota head to the polls Tuesday for another day of primary elections in America, but much of the political world will be focused on Maine’s high-stakes U.S. Senate contest. The results are not in question. Neither Republican incumbent Sen. Susan Collins nor Democratic challenger Graham Platner faces serious opposition for their party’s nomination. And yet Tuesday marks an especially significant moment for Platner, the embattled veteran and oyster farmer, who is fighting to rebuild his credibility in a campaign rocked by controversy.Elsewhere, President Donald Trump’s clout within his party will be tested anew in states like South Carolina and Nevada, where he’s endorsed his favored candidates. Democrats hope to build momentum in Nevada in their broader push to reclaim key governor’s seats. Powerful family ties will also be in the spotlight in Maine and South Carolina, where candidates with political pedigrees are running for office. Here’s what we’re watching Tuesday. Platner faces a big momentPlatner sits at the very center of the Democratic Party’s quest to reclaim the Senate majority this fall. So Democrats need him to take a significant step forward Tuesday, with the eyes of the nation watching, in the urgent task of rebuilding his credibility.It was barely a week ago when revelations surfaced that Platner had engaged in sexually explicit messages with multiple women while married. Allies wondered if more baggage would emerge, and then The New York Times reported new allegations about his behavior during previous relationships.There is no doubt that Platner will win his party’s Senate nomination Tuesday. His most serious opponent, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, suspended her campaign in April after it became clear Platner was in a commanding position. That said, Mills is still technically on the ballot and some advocates have suggested voting for her as a way to protest Platner. More important, perhaps, will be Platner’s public remarks Tuesday night. Friends and foes alike will be paying close attention to how he addresses the evolving questions about his past and whether he can refocus the race on Collins. Read More Maine race will test Democrats’ standardsIt’s not just Platner who will be tested Tuesday — the Democratic Party itself will face new scrutiny about its standards in the Trump era.So far, Platner’s biggest national supporters have remained firmly behind him. Sen. Bernie Sanders, one of his earliest backers, reiterated his support for the Maine Democrat on Saturday, a day after Rep. Ro Khanna appeared alongside Platner at a campaign event.The public show of support reflects how much Democratic politics have changed over the last decade. At the height of the #MeToo movement, Democrats argued they held their candidates to a higher standard than Republicans, particularly as Trump faced a series of sexual misconduct allegations. Back in 2017, Democratic leaders pressured Sen. Al Franken to resign in the wake of allegations of inappropriate touching and kissing. The reaction to Platner has been markedly different. Even after allegations surfaced that he locked a woman in a room, among other accusations of inappropriate behavior, most Democrats have declined to abandon him. “I think President Trump set a new standard,” Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., told ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday.Expect Democratic leaders to face a new round of difficult questions about their own standards after Tuesday’s primary.Trump looks to shake off embarrassmentJust a week ago, Trump’s pick for Iowa governor was defeated in a rare rebuke from his own party. Trump hopes to move past the political embarrassment during a fresh test of his political clout in South Carolina and Nevada.The biggest may come in South Carolina, where Trump has endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette in a five-person Republican gubernatorial primary. There are a number of other high-profile candidates in the race, including Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, who may prove formidable. State Attorney General Alan Wilson and millionaire Rom Reddy are also running. Trump will also keep a close eye on whether one of his closest allies in Congress, Sen. Lindsey Graham, is forced into a runoff for the first time ever. Graham faces appliance business owner Mark Lynch, who Trump has said “would be a DISASTER for the Republican Party” if elected. Candidates must earn a majority of the vote to avoid a June 23 runoff.Meanwhile, in Nevada’s 2nd congressional district, Trump-backed candidate retired Lt. Col. David Flippo is facing former state Sen. James Settelmeyer. Republican Rep. Mark Amodei, who announced his retirement from the seat, has endorsed Settelmeyer, as has the state’s governor, Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo. Democrats eye a key governor’s seatDemocrats will select a nominee for Nevada’s governor race, where they have a real opportunity to flip control of the swing state this fall. Republican incumbent Gov. Joe Lombardo is considered one of the most vulnerable governors in the country.The race is a window into the broader political landscape this fall as Democrats go on the offensive in several states Trump won in 2024.The Democrats vying to challenge Lombardo include state Attorney General Aaron Ford, who has the backing of the Democratic congressional delegation and former Vice President Kamala Harris. He would be the first Black man elected governor of Nevada. He’s facing Democrat Alexis Hill, a county commissioner in northern Nevada who campaigned as a candidate willing to shake things up.Democrats are also fighting to win Republican-held governors’ seats in states like Georgia, Ohio and Iowa. Republicans, of course, have several pickup opportunities of their own, despite the challenging political environment for their party. They include Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Can they keep it in the family?The power of political family ties will be tested in at least two states where candidates with last names you’ll likely recognize are on the ballot.In Maine, Democrats Angus King III and Hannah Pingree are competing for their party’s nomination for governor. King is the businessman son of U.S. Sen. Angus King. Pingree, a former speaker of the state House, is the daughter of U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, who has represented the state’s 1st congressional district since 2009.There’s a member of an even bigger political dynasty on Maine’s ballot, too. Republican candidate for governor Jonathan Bush, a 57-year-old businessman, is the nephew of former President George H.W. Bush — and yes, that also makes him the cousin of former President George W. Bush. Despite the family ties, Jonathan Bush is casting himself as the outsider in the race and focusing heavily on his local business experience.And don’t forget about South Carolina, where Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson is running for governor. While he has established his own resume as the state’s top law enforcement official, Wilson also happens to be the son of U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, who has served South Carolina in the House of Representatives for a quarter century. South Carolina: redistricting dies and Clyburn’s political future survivesJust weeks ago, longtime Rep. James Clyburn, the dean of South Carolina Democrats, appeared to be facing the greatest threat to his political future.Republican lawmakers, backed by Trump, considered a congressional map that would have significantly altered Clyburn’s majority-Black district and made it harder for him to hold onto the seat for an 18th term. But the Republican-led state Senate rejected the effort, leaving his district largely intact.Clyburn is heavily favored in Tuesday’s Democratic primary against a little-known challenger. As South Carolina’s lone Democratic House member, he’s one of the party’s most influential figures, with many Democrats expecting him to play a significant role in the lead-up to the 2028 presidential race.___Peoples reported from New York. JOEY CAPPELLETTI Cappelletti covers Congress for The Associated Press. He previously reported on Michigan politics for AP. twitter mailto

Workers transfer goods from a truck at the Xiaomi logistic center, in Beijing, China on Friday, May 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Andy Wong)2026-06-09T03:21:55Z HONG KONG (AP) — China’s exports picked up pace in May, rising 19.4% from a year earlier, its customs agency said Tuesday, as technology-related shipments remained robust despite impacts from the Iran war.The stronger than expected performance was an improvement from April’s 14.1% year-on-year increase. Imports in May jumped 27.4%, also at a faster pace compared with April’s 25.3% year-on-year expansion.Exports to the U.S. in May surged more than 35% from the year before — the strongest pace since early 2021 — after an 11% increase in April.China’s shipments to the U.S. had fallen sharply for most of the months since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to the White House last year, as shipments to regions like Southeast Asia and Europe surged.The strength in exports has been supported by shipments of autos and technology and artificial intelligence-related products such as semiconductors and computing equipment. Exports are a “shock‑absorber” for China, helping its economy weather a spike in global energy prices that have driven inflation worldwide, said Wei Li, Head of Multi-Asset Investments at BNP Paribas Securities (China). The global AI boom and a rising worldwide shift to green technology are also helping.“Ships, chips, autos, and batteries continue to find strong demand amid the global tech boom, and higher prices along the tech supply chain have helped support the value growth for trade,” said Lynn Song, chief economist for Greater China at Dutch bank ING. Read More By product categories, overall exports of semiconductors in May more than doubled year-on-year by value while autos were up almost 40%. China’s biggest electric vehicle maker BYD said it sold more than 160,600 vehicles abroad in May, up 80% from a year earlier.Advanced semiconductors and EV shipments are likely to help power China’s export growth for the rest of this year, Li of BNP Paribas said. Trump’s visit to Beijing in May and his meetings there with Chinese President Xi Jinping in mid-May have raised hopes for improved relations between the world’s two largest economies after the two leaders agreed to set up boards of trade and investment. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. But analysts said the recent year-on-year improvement in Chinese exports to the U.S. probably has more to do with base effect, after Trump’s sweeping “Liberation Day” tariffs that came into effect in April 2025 caused a sharp drop in China’s shipments.Chinese leaders have set a 4.5% to 5% annual economic growth target for 2026, slightly below the “around 5%” goal for 2025, and the slowest expansion goal since 1991. ING’s Song said a strong start to the year should help China stay on track to meet its full-year growth target. CHAN HO-HIM Chan writes about business and economy in China for The Associated Press, reporting on key sectors of the world’s second-largest economy from trade and technology to autos. He is based in Hong Kong. mailto

Dr. Babah Mutuza Lusungu, right, a doctor at "Dieu Est Grand" Medical Center, attends to a woman in his office in Beni, Congo, Monday, June 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Kitsa Musayi Sebastien)2026-06-09T05:11:50Z BENI, Congo (AP) — The memories come flooding back whenever Vianney Kambale Kombi hears the word Ebola.He remembers the pain and fear in his community in the eastern Congo city of Beni during the 2018-2020 Ebola outbreak, history’s second-biggest with more than 3,400 reported cases and over 2,200 deaths. It was stopped with the aid of vaccines.Kombi also remembers the broad skepticism over the disease, attacks on health workers and inaction from patients that he blames for the speed in which the disease spread.“We thought it was witchcraft,” said Kombi. “The community had not accepted that this disease existed and it had not accepted that we could recover from it.”In Beni, a bustling commercial hub near the borders with Uganda and Rwanda, some fear that a repeat of mistakes made during Congo’s past outbreaks and the lack of an approved vaccine this time around might make the response to the latest outbreak more challenging.A total of 515 infections have been confirmed in the current outbreak caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, a type of Ebola virus, including 91 deaths and 12 recoveries. Suspicions of a conspiracyKombi recalled how he contracted the virus after being exposed to others who had it. He said they had little information about the disease at the time, and that while many thought it was witchcraft, others described it as a “Western conspiracy for funding reasons.”“The community had not accepted that we could recover from this disease, that’s why reintegrating into the community at first was a bit difficult,” he said.“When a pandemic hits here in Congo, we initially think it’s a political issue,” said Bienfait Wanzire, who also recovered after contracting Ebola during the 2018 outbreak.“At first, we thought it was a spiritual illness,” he said. “Then because there were election campaigns, we believed it was political.” Doctor recalls losing his uncle and colleaguesDr. Babah Mutuza Lusungu, a physician at “Dieu Est Grand” Medical Center in Beni, remembered losing his uncle and two colleagues even as he tried to convince people the outbreak was real.“There was very strong resistance,” said Lusungu. “And so there was a climate of mistrust that took place between the population, the authorities, the partners too, right, and the health workers.”Youths at the time were not directly involved in response efforts, he said, urging local authorities to work more closely with youth leaders to enlighten people about the disease.“If we wait until they have so many declared cases to start making an effective response, we will have totally missed the target,” he said. Read More Vaccines saved his familyEsperance Masinda, who was working for the U.N. children’s agency in Beni during the 2018 outbreak, said it was particularly difficult caring for children who had lost their parents to Ebola.She contracted the disease while looking after her husband who was working as a medical doctor. Although they both later recovered, the vaccine that helped save them distanced them from family and neighbors.“When we were in the community, we were told that you’re not going to make it even five years, you’re going to die with that medication that you took there,” Masinda said. “And today, when they see us, these people no longer stigmatize us,” she said. “We are all humans, even though we have been victims of Ebola, all of us are humans.”

An adult New World screwworm fly sits in this undated photo. (Denise Bonilla/U.S. Department of Agriculture via AP)2026-06-08T13:58:48Z Three more cases of the New World screwworm have been confirmed, including one outside the main cluster in Texas, demonstrating the difficulty of stopping a resurgent pest that could devastate the nation’s cattle industry, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday.The screwworm is actually a fly larva that eats living flesh instead of dead material. The flies lay their eggs in open wounds of animals like cattle, but wildlife, pets and occasionally even humans can be infested. The government has a program to breed sterile male flies and drop swarms of them from planes to mate with wild females, which kept screwworm contained at the southern end of Panama for decades. So far, there are five confirmed cases: three calves and a goat in Texas and a dog from neighboring Lea County, New Mexico. The small dog, which the USDA initially reported as a Texas case, lives in New Mexico and was reclassified as the first in that state.The dog had not traveled to Mexico or Texas, so authorities were investigating around the property where the pet lived. If they find infected flies, animal inspections in the area will increase, New Mexico State Veterinarian Samantha Holeck said during a virtual news conference Monday. Screwworm cases continue to climbThe first two screwworm cases were discovered last week in calves a few miles apart in south Texas. A case was announced Monday in a calf in La Salle County, southwest of San Antonio, and in a goat in Gillespie County, west of Austin.In each case, officials have set up a 12-mile (20-kilometer) quarantine zone to try to slow the parasite’s advance.Along with cattle and other warm-blooded livestock, scientists worry screwworms could devastate the millions of wild white-tailed deer in Texas.Scientists expect new cases could pop up in the coming days and weeks, but it doesn’t mean screwworm is spreading rapidly, said Edward Burgess, a University of Florida entomologist who studies the fly.“When that first case is seen, everyone is being vigilant and their eyes are on it more intensely,” Burgess said. “And when you are looking for something, you are more likely to see it.” A race to stop the screwworm now moves to TexasScrewworm gets its name from the maggots’ habit of burrowing — or screwing — into a wound, according to the USDA. The pest eats the flesh of the animal, further opening wounds and increasing the risk of deadly bacterial infections. Animals can die within a few weeks if not treated. There are a dozen government-approved medications to treat livestock.The agency and the U.S. cattle industry have been racing to prevent an outbreak since screwworm was detected in Mexico late in 2024. The USDA has been dropping sterile flies in south Texas since February and is working to both increase sterile fly production in plants outside the U.S. and build a $750 million fly factory in Texas. Read More So far, screwworm’s reappearance hasn’t greatly affected beef prices, which are already near record levels because there are fewer cows in the United States. Although the parasite attacks live cattle, it does not infest meat or fruit.Canada temporarily stopped importing cattle, horses or other livestock from Texas on Friday. The parasites prefer humid areas where temperatures are at least 77 F (25 C), making them more of a summer problem up north. Fighting screwworms with sterile male fliesBurgess said the long-term solution — breeding sterile male flies — is months away. Since wild female flies mate just once, if that encounter is with a sterile male, outbreaks can eventually be halted as the flies die out.The goal is to have enough sterile flies to stop the pests from returning in 2027 after the winter kills off most of them, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said at a news conference at the U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory in Kerrville, Texas. Scientists are also working on ways to sterilize only male flies to make the program even more effective. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. Texas officials encouraged ranchers to keep a close eye on their herds and local wildlife. There’s now a 24-hour screwworm hotline and a website and map for reported cases. “This is a highly treatable condition if you act on it immediately,” Republican Gov. Greg Abbott said. However, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller — who lost the recent Republican primary to a candidate backed by Abbott — said the federal response will take too long and risks crippling the cattle industry.Instead, he says a poison bait could eliminate the screwworm problem in a few months, even if the USDA and other experts say the bait hasn’t been proven effective and could poison other flies, animals and even humans.“What the hell is a good fly?” Miller said in an interview.___This story has been updated to reflect that the USDA revised the dog screwworm case to New Mexico, not Texas as the agency initially reported, and to correct the spelling of Kerrville.___Associated Press writers Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Scott McFetridge in Des Moines, Iowa, contributed to this report. JEFFREY COLLINS Collins covers South Carolina from Columbia for The Associated Press. He has been with the AP since 2000. twitter mailto

'Wait and see': Richard Hughes moves closer to stunning Saudi dealRichard Hughes was a key figure in the post-Jurgen Klopp shakeup at Liverpool. Brought to the club by FSG’s CEO of Football Michael Edwards Hughes played a significant role in signing up Arne Slot as head coach.Having left his post as Bournemouth’s technical director the Scot exec was brought to Anfield as sporting director. His decision to hire Arne Slot was an immediate hit with Liverpool winning the Premier League during the Dutchman’s first season in charge.But Slot’s tenure is now at an end following a poor second season. Hughes, 46, has gone all in on Andoni Iraola instead - hiring the Spaniard for a second time in his career having overseen his appointment at Bournemouth.Plenty of scrutiny has been on Hughes’ work as sporting director in recent months.The decision to offer Mohamed Salah a £400k per week contract has proven to be a poor one. And a very expensive £450m spending spree last summer made the Premier League champions worse, not better.Richard Hughes is closer than ever to Al-Hilal dealHughes is only under contract on Merseyside until 2027 - the same as Michael Edwards. Accordingly it has been suggested that the ex-midfielder could soon be moving on - with noise increasing about a deal with Al-Hilal.The Saudi Pro League giants are in the midst of an administrative restructure and want to bring Hughes to the Middle East as part of the reshuffle.That’s according to Sacha Tavolieri on X, who claims that the Reds’ sporting director is moving closer to a deal. “Richard Hughes close to Al Hilal!” he writes.“Liverpool FC’s current sporting director is in advanced talks with Saudi officials to become Al Hilal’s new sporting director.“Saudi plan’s for Hughes is to let him work on the Reds’ next window before beginning a potential move. Wait&See.”

Darwin Nunez back to Liverpool: Andoni Iraola's perfect welcome gift is available and he should probably return to Liverpool. The perfect welcome gift.Darwin Nunez will leave Al-Hilal this summer after falling completely out of favour with the club. Nunez only actually moved there in 2025 but the January arrival of Karim Benzema forced him out of the squad.Nunez will now almost certainly return to Europe. But where?Well, hopefully Liverpool. The stage is set beautifully for the Uruguayan, who maintains plenty of fans on Merseyside. It was difficult not to love him, wasn't it?But while this sounds a little like a joke, re-signing Nunez actually makes an incredible amount of sense. Especially when you look at where this Liverpool squad actually stands.Hugo Ekitike is out, likely until the New Year. Alexander Isak struggles badly to remain fit, too, meaning there will comfortably be stretches across next season where neither are available and Liverpool lack a centre-forward.On top of that, they need a new left-winger. That's been the case since losing Luis Diaz, while there's now also talk that Cody Gakpo could leave the club.Nunez, then, is a centre-forward who can play on the left. He's in his prime years and knows the club, meaning no bedding-in period is necessary and he can deliver right away.He's also far, far more suited to Andoni Iraola's style of play than he was Arne Slot's. Nunez is all about that chaotic style of football, wanting to take risks every time, run with the ball, and inject constant energy.There may not be a better welcome gift for Iraola, in fact. Nunez would fix some problems immediate and with little fuss - especially if he's a free transfer.Darwin Nunez: Situation Summary