Los Angeles Angels right-handed pitcher Walbert Ureña (57) pitches during the MLB game against the Houston Astros Tuesday June 9th, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.ANAHEIM, Calif. - Walbert Ureña has been one of the most surprising bright spots for the Los Angeles Angels this season and on Tuesday night he continued what's been a dominant run so far for the 22-year-old right hander. He went five innings without allowing a run while only giving up three hits, striking out seven Houston Astros in the process. It was his second scoreless start of the season and his eighth-straight start of allowing three runs-or-less."You go five shutout, it's positive no matter what," Angels manager Kurt Suzuki said. "I think for Ureña, he just keeps building... you've got to keep going start by start and competing."FINAL: Angels 10 - Astros 1 @Angels struck early while Walbert Ureña had another strong start.Ureña: 5 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 7 KMeckler: 1-2, 2 RBI, 3 R, 3 BBPeraza: 2-5, 3 RBIAdell: 2-4, 2 RBI, 2 R— Jack Haslett (@JackHaslett_13) June 10, 2026Battling throughout the gameThe only spot of concern for Ureña, something that's been a factor for him throughout the season, is his tendency to labor through his outings. He allowed five walks in the game and it took him 107 pitches to get through five innings. With the Angels bullpen worn thin as it is, having not just Ureña, but all of the Angels starters going deep into games would be a huge plus, but even with his elevated pitch count, Ureña proved himself in tight jams and stranded all nine runners that reached base against him. Over his last eight starts, Walbert Ureña has pitched to a 1.84 ERA (44 IP - 9 ER) with 42 strikeouts.His streak of eight straight starts with 5+ IP and 3-or-fewer runs allowed is the longest for an #Angels RHP since Jered Weaver in 2014.— Matt Birch (@MattBirch12) June 10, 2026"He was competing out there tonight and obviously he didn't have his best command, but his desire to get through that game is what pulled him through," Suzuki said." You can't teach that."Hot bats for HalosIt helped that the Angels got the offense going early to give Ureña the cushion he needed to battle it out on the mound comfortably. Los Angeles took advantage of Astros starter Kai-Wei Teng's control issues control issues and a fielding error by Jeremy Pena to score two runs out of a bases-loaded situation.That was just the start, though. The Angels put together five hits, including back-to-back doubles by Wade Meckler and Jo Adell, and a walk to score five runs in the second inning and give Ureña a 7-0 lead to work with.Los Angeles Angels outfielder Wade Meckler (53) hits the ball during the MLB game against the Houston Astros Tuesday June 9th, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.Paige Creason - The Sporting TribuneLos Angeles Angels outfielder Wade Meckler (53) hits the ball during the MLB game against the Houston Astros Tuesday June 9th, 2026 at Angel's Stadium in Anaheim, Calif."[We're] having great at-bats, passing the baton, putting the ball in play," Mike Trout, who went 1-4 with two runs scored and snapped a 0-22 streak at the plate, said. "I think that's the key, and not trying to do too much." As much insurance as Ureña had, though, he wasn't trying to rely on a cushion from his offense and still wanted to step onto the mound with his best stuff, which he didn't have on Tuesday.Competitiveness from UreñaThat desire comes with his competitive nature, one that's so strong that his fellow pitcher José Soriano had to remind him to smile after a game in which he threw five scoreless innings.Walbert Ureña's 3Ks in the 1st pic.twitter.com/Fdg2fWJxyB— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 10, 2026"[I'm] just trying to [not] be that comfortable because I don't want to be like what I've been today," Ureña said. "But, it's good to get the offense... with a couple runs early."When Ureña did relinquish the ball, he was relived by a line of Brett Suter, Drew Pomeranz and Kirby Yates, who combined to allow just one run on two hits. Not that they needed it, but the Angels added three runs in the bottom of the eighth to pad their lead 10-1 and take the game to even the series against their division rivals with the rubber match approaching Wednesday.

Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesAngel Reese has moved into rare basketball company by matching Blake Griffin and leaving only Shaquille O’Neal ahead of her in one historic double-double race.Reese’s rebounding has already made her one of the WNBA’s defining young stars, but this latest mark stretches beyond her own league.It places her early-career production alongside two of the most physically dominant NBA players of the modern era.The record came through her first 75 career games, which makes the pace even harder to ignore. Reese is not slowly building toward history; she has been stacking it almost from the moment she arrived.Photo by John Nacion/FilmMagicAngel Reese ties Blake Griffin and trails only Shaquille O’Neal in double-double historyESPN Insights highlighted Angel Reese’s latest double-double milestone after she reached 57 through her first 75 career games.“Angel Reese’s 57th double-double is the most through 75 games in WNBA history. Over the last 40 seasons across the NBA and WNBA, only Shaquille O’Neal had more through 75 games,” ESPN revealed.That also means Reese is tied with Griffin for second-most double-doubles through the first 75 games across the NBA and WNBA in that span.Griffin reached 57 early in his career, while O’Neal stands alone at the top. For Reese, being in that group is a huge statement about how quickly her game has translated to the professional level.Angel Reese chasing Shaquille O’Neal puts WNBA record in wild contextO’Neal had 63 double-doubles through his first 75 NBA games, putting him six ahead of Reese and Griffin on the combined list from the last 40 seasons.Reese reached her 57th double-double with a 17-point, 17-rebound performance as the Atlanta Dream beat the Chicago Sky 82-75. It was a fitting way to set the WNBA mark, because her dominance on the glass has been the constant in her young career.The names behind her make the achievement look even bigger. Tim Duncan and David Robinson are listed at 53 double-doubles through 75 games, which shows how difficult it is to keep producing that level of scoring and rebounding every night.Reese still trails O’Neal’s absurd pace, but tying Griffin while clearing every WNBA player before her is already an insane start. The comparison is not about style; it is about consistency, and Reese is building a resume that keeps forcing those conversations.Read more:Angel Reese fans accuse WNBA refs of favoritism after Caitlin Clark’s animated exchange goes viralMagic center Wendell Carter Jr. turns heads courtside at Dream game with custom Angel Reese jerseyViral NBA shooting coach sends invitation to Angel Reese amid criticisms of her shooting

Lakers predicted to lose $51 million free agent in deal to San Antonio Spurs originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.For as young as the San Antonio Spurs are, they have to feel pretty good about how they're currently playing. While they're down 2-1 against the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, the Spurs have been right there in every game, and there's even an argument to be made that they've been the better team in this series. Of course, that hasn't resulted in the outcome of some games, and that's what's important here, but there's a lot to like about what San Antonio has done on both sides of the basketball, especially when we factor in that it can only get better in the future if it does the right things.While those right moves won't be easy to make and could impact other teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, there will be a few players who could be available in the future and really fit what the Spurs are looking to do. One of those guys is Rui Hachimura of the Lakers, with one writer suggesting that San Antonio should be all over him.“It’s basically Victor Wembanyama and three, or even four, guards most of the time,” Colin Keane wrote. “Hachimura would fix that size imbalance by giving the Spurs a big body on the wing (and at the 4) who can really stretch the floor with his 3-point shooting. … He’d also provide valuable rebounding, seeing as the Spurs often struggle to keep opponents off the offensive glass due to their lineups.”Hachimura being able to hit open shots would completely change San Antonio's offense, as he'd be a forward who could come in and fit well with the current roster, especially with Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper creating open looks for their teammates. Hachimura has proven to be a decent three-point shooter, and with his size, that's what San Antonio needs.More NBA News:Heat get good Celtics update on Giannis Antetokounmpo amid Miami rumorsCeltics trade pitch for Giannis AntetokounmpoGiannis Antetokounmpo just said what Knicks fans have been waiting to hearBlockbuster trade idea involves Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant and the WarriorsNew York is about to become the undisputed center of the sports world

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Luis García Jr. launched a two-run homer, Jacob Young scored a pivotal run on a wild pitch in the seventh inning and the Washington Nationals beat the San Francisco Giants 6-3 on Tuesday night.James Wood had three hits and Young added two as the Nationals secured a fifth consecutive road series win for the first time since 2014.Jung Hoo Lee singled and doubled with two RBIs for the Giants to extend his hitting streak to 17 games, the longest active run in the majors. Bryce Eldridge added his third home run of the season.One day after scoring three times in the ninth to stun San Francisco in the series opener, the Nationals led the entire game following García's homer in the first inning. But they couldn’t shake the Giants until a late surge in the seventh.Young started it with a leadoff single against Erik Miller. Wood singled and pinch-hitter Andrés Chapparo walked to load the bases before Miller threw a pitch that skipped past catcher Daniel Susac. Young sprinted home and scored with a headfirst slide.Daylen Lile drew a bases-loaded walk and the Nationals held on for their 23rd road victory, tied with Atlanta for most in the majors.The Giants loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh but failed to score.Washington reliever Brad Lord (4-0) retired eight batters to earn the win. Lord was the second of four relievers used by manager Blake Butera after starter Andrew Alvarez allowed two runs and five hits with five walks in four innings.Winless in five home starts this season, Giants right-hander Adrian Houser (2-6) yielded four runs and three hits in 4 1/3 innings.Up nextNationals LHP Foster Griffin (7-2, 3.63 ERA) faces Giants LHP Robbie Ray (4-6, 4.12) in the series finale Wednesday afternoon.___AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

A woman walks past a mural depicting a U.S. aircraft carrier under missile attack in downtown Tehran, Iran, Monday, June 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)2026-06-10T03:29:25Z DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States launched airstrikes early Wednesday against Iran after blaming Tehran for the crash of an American attack helicopter, prompting new attacks from Iran and further widening the retaliatory strikes that threaten to derail talks to end to the war.Iran launched attacks on sites in Bahrain, Kuwait, which both sounded alerts and fired air defenses in response. Jordan also reported shooting down five missiles that Iran shot at an air base hosting U.S. forces.Since the U.S. and Israel started the war with attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, the conflict has shaken the global economy, driven up energy prices around the world and made many basics, including food, more expensive.Officials have been unable to turn the April ceasefire into a deal to permanently end the conflict, particularly as Israel intensifies and expands its military campaign in Lebanon against the Iranian-backed militia Hezbollah. The downing of the Apache attack helicopter and the strikes by the U.S. military further strained the ceasefire a day after Iran and Israel exchanged fire for the first time since the fragile truce took effect. Iranian state television said Tuesday that the Israeli attacks killed at least two members of the country’s air-defense units. Strikes by US and Iran shake the MideastFighter jets from the U.S. Air Force and Navy conducted the strikes in Iran, the U.S. military’s Central Command said, targeting “air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites.” Iran acknowledged strikes around Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island, but gave no details on the damage. “The operation was a proportional response to recent attacks on U.S. forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters,” Central Command said.Iran’s top diplomat said foreign military forces near its territory “are at constant risk” and later vowed that there would be a response to the new U.S. strikes. Read More Iranian forces “will leave no attack or threat unanswered,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on X. “Leave our region if you want to be safe.” Jordan said Wednesday it shot down five incoming missiles launched by Iran, which Iran said targeted the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base. That air base has hosted American F-35 fighter jets and other aircraft.Jordan’s state-run Petra news agency carried the statement from its military, which added that there were no injuries in the attack and that explosives experts had examined the debris from the interceptions. 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. US helicopter collided with Iranian drone, official saysA U.S. Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter went down near the Strait of Hormuz after colliding with an Iranian drone, according to a U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation.It wasn’t clear whether the collision was intentional, and official statements only said the crash is under investigation. CNN, CBS News and other outlets earlier reported the collision.In the first known operation of its kind by the American military, a drone boat rescued both of the helicopter’s aviators at 3:30 a.m. local time Tuesday, about two hours after their aircraft went down during a patrol off the coast of Oman, U.S. Central Command said. Trump said both crew were “safe and uninjured.”The U.S. service members were spotted and picked up by a drone boat that took them to another location on the water, where they were picked up by a helicopter, said Capt. Tim Hawkins, a spokesman for U.S. Central Command. AH-64 Apache helicopters have been a key asset for the American military as it enforces a blockade on Iranian crude oil shipments and tankers, seeking to pressure Tehran into a deal. The helicopters have also been used by the United Arab Emirates to shoot down Iranian drones. Trump has insisted an Iran deal is comingBefore he accused Iran of downing the U.S. helicopter, Trump expressed renewed optimism over negotiations with Iran, but didn’t say why there was reason for optimism. Mediators, led predominantly by Pakistan, have been trying for weeks to get a deal across the line. However, both Iran and the U.S. have taken hardline positions.The U.S. wants to see Iran give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, which is believed to have been buried by American airstrikes during the 12-day war in 2025. But Iran is refusing that and demanding relief from sanctions. It also wants the release of frozen assets even before a final agreement is in place, something rejected by Trump.Israel’s military said on Wednesday it had launched multiple strikes in southern Lebanon over the past day, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure. The continued fighting between Israel and Hezbollah is still a top Iranian priority, while Lebanon’s government has been taking an increasingly hard line against Hezbollah but remains unable to disarm the powerful militia. ___Associated Press writers David Rising in Bangkok; Michelle L. Price in New York; Will Weissert in Washington; Bassem Mroue in Beirut; Munir Ahmed in Islamabad; and Russ Bynum in Savannah, Georgia, contributed to this report. JON GAMBRELL Gambrell is the news director for the Gulf and Iran for The Associated Press. He has reported from each of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Iran and other locations across the world since joining the AP in 2006. twitter instagram mailto

🥐 Madrid stirs up the market, internationals... 5️⃣ stories for WednesdayWednesday gets off to a flying start. After Álvaro Arbeloa’s departure from the Santiago Bernabéu bench was confirmed, Florentino Pérez wasted no time in making his move to get the club back on track. The Spanish capital thus becomes the epicenter of the biggest stories in international football, with boardrooms working overtime while the national teams continue to deliver joy on the pitch. Below, we review the five key points shaping this Tuesday’s news agenda, combining the high-level strategy of elite clubs with the resounding success of international women’s and men’s football.Mourinho’s return is now officialReal Madrid will announce today the arrival of José Mourinho to take charge of the first team. This move comes just hours after the departure of Álvaro Arbeloa was confirmed and after Benfica made official the payment of the 15 million euro release clause. Fifteen years after his first spell, the Portuguese coach returns to the Bernabéu with the clear objective of leading a major sporting overhaul and taking the club back to winning trophies after a barren year. Atlético slams the door on Florentino PérezTwo days after securing his re-election as president, Florentino Pérez has revealed his big secret: a firm offer of 150 million euros for Julián Álvarez. However, Atlético de Madrid has flatly rejected the proposal from its eternal rival. In the Metropolitano offices, they did not consider for even a minute the departure of their star to Chamartín, firmly pointing instead to his prohibitive release clause, set at 500 million euros. Summit at the top of the Madrid hierarchySquad planning under Mourinho’s new ecosystem has already begun behind the scenes. The main figures in the Madrid boardroom, including José Ángel Sánchez and chief scout Juni Calafat, held a lengthy meeting at a central Madrid hotel alongside influential Portuguese agent Jorge Mendes. At this conclave, the names of the next priority market targets were put on the table to meet the new coach’s demands.Spain books its ticket to the 2027 World CupThe Spanish women’s national team mathematically secured qualification for the 2027 World Cup after cruising to a commanding 1-6 away win over Iceland. The national side, led by a spectacular performance from Vicky López, ends the campaign on a high note and secures the chance to defend its world title. The reigning world champions have shown that their ambition remains fully intact ahead of the major international tournament.Messi shines in Argentina’s finaleArgentina brought its international friendly tour to a close with a solid 3-0 win over Iceland. The match confirmed that Lionel Messi’s talent remains the driving force of the Albiceleste, after he scored one goal and provided an assist during the game. With confidence sky-high and a well-oiled collective style of play, the South American side wraps up its preparation phase making it clear that it is ready for official challenges.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

49ers believed to have canceled mini camp for ridiculous Brandon Aiyuk reason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.With the San Francisco 49ers announcing they're canceling minicamp, some have wondered whether that was due to Brandon Aiyuk. The Aiyuk situation is one of the more interesting in the NFL at the moment, with the organization potentially scared to move on from him, at least according to the man himself. It's a brutal situation for all to be in, but the 49ers have to do what's right and need to move on from him as soon as possible. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like many teams want to trade for him at the moment, which will raise many questions about his future in the NFL and with San Francisco.I highly doubt that San Francisco decided to cancel its mandatory minicamp because of Aiyuk, but Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio doesn't believe that's the case, adding that he wouldn't be surprised if that was the reason why.“Last week, Kyle Shanahan announced that he had canceled the 49ers’ mandatory mini camp,” Florio said. “If they hadn’t canceled that mini camp, and I wonder how much of the decision to cancel the mini camp was influenced by the very real possibility Aiyuk could have shown up and said, ‘I’m here. Put me on the field. Let me practice.‘“It was established nearly 20 years ago when Steve McNair was on the Titans and they were waiting for the Ravens to give them the trade offer that they liked and they basically locked McNair out of the building. You can’t keep a player away from the facility; you can’t keep a player away from practice. You have to welcome him in as a member of the team or you have to cut him or trade him.”It doesn't sound that crazy to suggest it might have had some impact, but I'd hate the idea that this happened entirely because of Aiyuk. In fact, that would be a really bad look for the 49ers and all involved.More NFL news:Baker Mayfield update should leave no Browns fans surprisedMaxx Crosby’s comments show there’s no chance he’s getting traded to the BearsRome Odunze injury update should have all Bears fans worriedShedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson get update on Browns QB1 jobBengals’ Joe Burrow gets big-time prediction

Liverpool star finished at Anfield after massive update emergesThere's no hiding from the fact that Liverpool's 2025-26 season has been underwhelming.Arne Slot and his team managed to massively underdeliver despite spending the most money of all the Premier League's teams.This lack of form has resulted in Andoni Iraola being appointed as the Reds' next head coach and has caused fans to question some of the players they've signed.Several members of Liverpool's first-team squad have failed to prove their worth and now, it feels like the club have yet another massive rebuild on their hands.And, after what has just happened to one of Liverpool's players, it feels like his time in L4 could easily be coming to an end.Jeremie Frimpong left out of Netherlands World Cup squad again after Jurrien Timber ruled outWhen the Netherlands' World Cup squad was first announced by Ronald Koeman, one of the biggest names to miss out was Liverpool's Jeremie Frimpong.Prior to his Anfield switch, the right-back was often one of the first names on his countries team sheet with his attacking prowess and versatility being two key components of his game.However, after a season of injuries and unreliability, he was left out which proves how much he's actually flopped.But, since his fellow countryman Jurrien Timber was injured, Frimpong was given another chance to get called up for this summers tournament.Again, this wasn't meant to be with Koeman eventually deciding to call up Lutsharel Geertruida instead.His absence from the tournament will have massively hindered his confidence and could maybe even make Liverpool think about his future at the club, especially since one of their transfer targets was called up instead of Frimpong.Jeremie Frimpong's time at Liverpool could come to an endWith the way that Iraola lines his team up, it's unclear whether Frimpong will fit into his plans.Sure, the Netherlands international can be used as a right-winger or a right-back but, since most of the players that the Reds are being linked with are attackers, the only area left for him to go would be at right-back.However, as the 25-year-old has shown on multiple occasions this term, he can hardly play in a back four due to how much he attacks.But, even when he's done this for Liverpool, he's failed to match the numbers he set at Bayer Leverkusen as he's only contributed to four goals this term.Liverpool will be looking to rebuild their entire team this summer and, in order to do that, they'll need to move some of their own players on.And, with how poorly Frimpong has performed, it wouldn't be surprising to see Liverpool at least consider moving him on, hence why he could be finished at Anfield this summer.

Lakers' LeBron James makes bold claim regarding NBA GOAT debate originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Everyone has an opinion when it comes to the GOAT debate, and Los Angeles Lakers star forward LeBron James is no different. In a recent interview with Time magazine, James was asked for his two cents on the debate, and he shared an answer that is sure to generate some controversy. LeBron James wouldn't take anyone over himself in GOAT debate “I’m not taking nobody over me,” says James. “There’s no question. But I think Mike will say the same thing. Rest his soul, Kobe will say the same thing. Magic will say the same thing. Bird will say the same thing. Shaq could say the same thing," James said. "The late great Wilt. Kareem. I don’t think none of us are going to take somebody else. If there’s a general manager and he’s eyeballing all of us on a baseline, with the No. 1 pick, it’s gonna be hard not to take me, champ.”Given all that he has accomplished over the course of his long and well-decorated career, James has every reason to think that he's the best player of all time. Many others would agree with him. Of course, many others would disagree, but that's what makes the debate fun and interesting. More to come. More NBA news: Donald Trump shares high praise for Spurs' Victor WembanyamaDallas Mavericks' Kyrie Irving provides major offseason injury updateAnthony Davis reveals which Lakers player he misses the most, and it's not LeBron JamesCleveland Cavaliers' James Harden provides NBA retirement timelineNew Orleans Pelicans new head coach reveals plan for Zion Williamson

Baker Mayfield Browns update should leave no Cleveland fans surprised originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.With the contract talks between Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers seemingly not being in a great spot at the moment, some have questioned whether the Cleveland Browns could get back in the mix to land their former quarterback. Mayfield obviously didn't have the time he hoped for or expected in Cleveland, but things have changed for him and the organization since then. Not to say that the Browns would be interested in bringing him back, and even more so Mayfield not wanting to be back, but anything is possible, as we've seen crazier things happen in the NFL.While it remains uncertain how everything will go with his contract in Tampa Bay, one Browns reporter put some cold water on the idea of him returning to Cleveland, saying that the Browns probably wouldn't want him.“I don’t think the Browns would want him back. I think they’ve had enough of the Baker Mayfield experience. That’s why he’s not here. …“I get it, he wants his market value and the pay scale for quarterbacks is what the pay scale for quarterback is. But I just don’t think that the Browns enjoyed their first Baker Mayfield experience, and I don’t know that they want to go that path again. It was not enjoyable for a lot of folks that tried to help him out while he was here. They tried to help him mature. So, these are the facts,” Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan said.Just as the Browns don't want Mayfield, there's an even better chance that he doesn't want Cleveland. I'd be shocked if something happened, but Cleveland would finally be getting a quarterback it desperately needs.More NFL news:Maxx Crosby’s comments show there’s no chance he’s getting traded to the BearsRome Odunze injury update should have all Bears fans worriedShedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson get update on Browns QB1 jobBengals’ Joe Burrow gets big-time prediction in what would make Cincinnati Super Bowl contendersBears trade proposal brings in $68 million 14.5 sack star as Maxx Crosby alternative

Kompany held talks with Brown regarding summer move to BayernAccording to BILD, Vincent Kompany spoke to Nathaniel Brown after the end of the season and explained his plans with him. For a long time, Kompany was fully relying on Alphonso Davies and saw no need for a significant reinforcement at left-back.However due to Davies' injuries, the coach changed his mind and decided that strengthening the position became a priority.This made Brown a top transfer target and despite inquiries from the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid, Brown only wants to join Bayern. The left-sided full-back wants to stay in Germany and sees playing under Kompany as an opportunity to develop further.As for current full-back Alphonso Davies, Bayern would be willing to listen to suitable offers for him this summer. The Canadian international earns roughly between €15-20million gross per year and his contract runs through 2030. Representatives of Saudi clubs have recently explored the conditions of a potential deal, but things have yet to become concrete.

Melvine Malard: United Women star’s strike secures World Cup placeManchester United Women had numerous players in action on Tuesday night for their respective national teams.Melvine MalardThe French star scored and assisted last time out and once again proved her worth as she guided France to a 1-0 win over Ireland, which secured World Cup qualification.Malard scored a stupendous acrobatic goal to give her nation the lead just before half-time.Mared Griffiths and Safia Middleton-PatelMiddleton-Patel started in goal for Wales as they beat Czechia 3-1 to win their qualification group.United youngster Mared Griffiths added the third to secure a vital win for the Welsh.Hanna Lundkvist, Fridolina Rolfo, Anna Sandberg, Julia ZigiottiSweden had four United stars in action as they drew 2-2 with Italy.Lundkvist’s headed effort on goal was parried onto the crossbar and into the back of the net to give the Swedes a lifeline after they were 2-0 down on 70 minutes.Just three minutes later, Rolfo equalised. Another corner was not dealt with by the Italian defence, and the United attacker was on hand to smash in the equaliser.Rolfo had complained previously about her game time for the national team and will hope this goal allows her to see more time on the pitch in the future.Anna Sandberg and Julia Zigiotti were also starters for a United-themed Swedish team.Elisabeth Terland and Lisa NaalsundBoth of United’s Norwegians started in Norway’s 2-1 win over Austria.They helped the Scandinavian side to finish second in the qualification group behind Germany.Maya Le Tissier and Jess ParkTwo of United’s stars were in action for England as they beat Ukraine 3-0.The Manchester United captain, Le Tissier, started at right-back and Park came on in the 65th minute of action.The Three Lions finished second behind Spain and will need to go to the play-offs to qualify for the World Cup.Dominique JanssenUnited veteran Janssen started at centre-back as the Netherlands defeated Poland 3-1.The result meant they finished second in the group, just behind Malard’s France.Featured image Ben Roberts Photo 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

When Didier Deschamps became manager of France, it was so long ago that Jose Mourinho was in charge of Real Madrid - the first time around, that is. It may be more pertinent to say that Sir Alex Ferguson was at Manchester United, Sir Kenny Dalglish had just left Liverpool and Tottenham were turning to Andre Villas-Boas. Another time.Deschamps can feel the timeless figure who has spanned eras, but one is ending. After 14 years, he is standing down. It may be after 188 games, too, if he steers France to a third consecutive World Cup final or, indeed, a third-place match. He will fall just short of Joachim Low’s record for a European manager, of almost 15 years and 198 matches at the helm.His immediate predecessor as a World Cup-winning coach could provide one comparison. Low stayed too long with Germany. If France flounder in the United States, the accusation will be that Deschamps has done likewise, especially as his former teammate, turned triple Champions League-winning manager, Zinedine Zidane seems to have spent years waiting to succeed him. (Reuters)Win in New York on 19 July, however, and there is a case for calling Deschamps the greatest World Cup manager of all: it is undeniable he has been gifted with terrific talents, but he has won one tournament and reached the final in another. It is worth remembering, too, that France’s last World Cup before he took charge, in South Africa in 2010, was an exercise in embarrassment, with more mutinies by the French players than wins, with a lone goal and an early exit.And so, after Laurent Blanc stood down in 2012, there was a logic in turning to Deschamps. He duly joined Franz Beckenbauer in a select group to win the World Cup as both captain and manager. He has nonetheless been damned with faint praise, in part because he has had such talented players, in part because of his pragmatic bent. There is no such footballing philosophy as Deschampsball; yet no other manager has seen his side score seven goals in World Cup finals.The counter-argument is to note Deschamps’ France reached the semi-finals of Euro 2024 without scoring an open-play goal; they instead had two own goals, one penalty and a successful penalty shootout. France were less than the sum of their parts then.Under Deschamps, however, there has often been deft use of them to Les Bleus’ benefit. In the 2018 World Cup, for instance, he brought in Olivier Giroud, who did not muster a shot on target, let alone a goal, but proved the foil Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann required. His use of the unselfish Blaise Matuidi off the left gave Paul Pogba more licence to attack while ensuring it did not cost France.Come 2022, and stripped of a midfield without Pogba and N’Golo Kante, he improvised, moving Griezmann deeper and showed a forgiving streak; Adrien Rabiot had refused to be on the standby list in 2018 but Deschamps did not hold it against him. There was a brutality in taking off Giroud and Ousmane Dembele in the first half of the final but it facilitated France’s fightback.Deschamps can seem unsentimental; Griezmann, his great constant, was overlooked for the captaincy after Hugo Lloris retired, with Mbappe preferred. The striker, like Pogba, has touched greater heights in a France shirt than in his club career.This may be Mbappe’s team now but it also contains the reigning Ballon d’Or winner; Dembele has had a lesser impact in the international game, as a meagre seven international goals shows, but represents one of four extraordinary attackers in Deschamps’ squad, with Mbappe, Desire Doue and Michael Olise. (Getty)Part of the challenge for Deschamps will be finding the right balance around them; the profile of the French players means they are unlikely to top the possession statistics, but few possess as much game-changing pace on the break.It could be required. The French route is scarcely straight forward. Being pitted with Norway and Senegal makes theirs one of the tougher groups. Win it and there is a potential last-16 tie with Germany. Come second and they could instead face Brazil at that stage. There might be a semi-final with Spain; if so, it would be a repeat of Euro 2024. None of which makes it entirely easy. A feature of Deschamps’ teams, however, is that they tend to progress, sometimes at the expense of fine teams. In six tournaments under him, they have only gone out 1-0 to the eventual winners Germany in 2014, 1-0 to the winners Portugal in extra time in the final in Euro 2016, lost on penalties in Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup final and then defeated, rightly but narrowly, by Spain in Munich. (Getty)All of which means Deschamps tends to travel further into tournaments than some more feted managers. During his tenure, some – Luis Enrique, Antonio Conte, Louis van Gaal – have had their taste of international football, and now it is the turn of others, such as Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti and Mauricio Pochettino. Meanwhile, Deschamps has replaced Low as the great constant. He took over from the German as world champion, too. Their paths diverged there. Not since Beckenbauer had any manager reached consecutive World Cup finals. No coach has gone to three in a row. As France’s World Cup begins at the MetLife Stadium in New York, it is with the possibility Deschamps’ last stand will come there, too.

If the New York Knicks win it all this year, just remember a high school student called it six years ago and has the receipts to prove it.Evan Pfeufer, a Long Island resident, opted for an unconventional entry in his 2020 Smithtown High School West yearbook. While his classmates listed their academic awards, extracurricular activities and sports accolades in the high school yearbook, Pfeufer’s portrait was accompanied by just six words: "Knicks in 6. 2026 NBA Finals." The prescient prediction has gained significant traction after he shared photos on social media in recent days, with one Instagram post alone amassing over 130,000 views.The Knicks lead the San Antonio Spurs 2-1 in the best of seven series. They dropped Game 3 Monday night, with President Donald Trump making the first appearance by a sitting president at an NBA championship game. The teams play again Wednesday at Madison Square Garden.Pfeufer's senior quote, which reads ’Knicks in 6. 2026 NBA Finals’ (Evan Pfeufer via AP)Pfeufer, now 23 and in sales, said he wanted to use the yearbook to make a bold declaration about his beloved Knicks, who he concedes were “terrible” at the time - The Knicks finished the 2020-21 season with a record of 41-31.“I was at my good buddy’s house and I said, ‘Knicks, six, 2026’,” he said. “It rhymed so well that I just figured, all right, I’m gonna put that there.”“I could have said Knicks in 5, 2025, or Knicks in 7, 2027,” he added. “I guess I got the right year.”Pfeufer said he took some grief, particularly from his parents, for not using the yearbook space to spotlight his school achievements, which included being a member of the honor society.“I kept it just as the quote because I thought that if it happened, it would look way better than if I had a bunch of awards underneath,” he says.Pfeufer, pointing to his senior quote in his high school yearbook, which reads: ‘Knicks in 6. 2026 NBA Finals’ (Evan Pfeufer via AP)Pfeufer says his parents have since come around to his thinking.“Now that it’s happening the way it is, they said for the first time in their lives, 'Alright, you were right’,” he said.Early in the playoffs, the lifelong Knicks fan said he swore off watching the team’s games because every time he tuned in, they lost. Since they’ve reached the finals and his prediction is inching closer to reality, he’s been watching them at home with family.Pfeufer believes the current squad has what it takes to win the franchise's first NBA title since 1973 — even if it isn't in six games. “I absolutely love that they play ethical basketball,” he said. “It’s team basketball. Everyone knows their role and cares so deeply, and you can see it whenever they play. They have heart.”

Maxx Crosby’s Raiders comments show there’s no chance he’s getting traded to the Bears originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.As everybody knows now, the Chicago Bears still need to add an edge rusher, and it remains uncertain when and if it's going to happen. The Bears are in a position where they have to feel very confident about winning a Super Bowl, or at least getting near the top, if they can make that one final move. It isn't a guarantee that they're going to win it all if they get there, but they'd be much closer by adding a guy like Maxx Crosby than they would be if they didn't have him. Sadly, it doesn't seem like Crosby is available at the moment, and his latest comments make it seem like he's more than happy to stay in Vegas for the time being.“It’s water under the bridge,” Crosby said, per NFL.com. “It’s a long time ago. A lot of things I learned about what’s going on and what this league can bring. A lot of adversity, a lot of different things you can’t really anticipate. But I’ve been through a lot in my life. It’s nothing to me. I’m here and I want to be here and I’m excited to be here. I’ve got a lot of work to do.”Hearing Crosby say that he wants to be there is far from ideal for a team like the Bears, as him coming out directly and saying that he doesn't want to be there could make a trade much more likely. The Bears are going to need some help in the trade, at least in terms of Las Vegas being willing to trade him.More NFL news:Rome Odunze injury update should have all Bears fans worriedShedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson get update on Browns QB1 jobBengals’ Joe Burrow gets big-time prediction in what would make Cincinnati Super Bowl contendersBears trade proposal brings in $68 million 14.5 sack star as Maxx Crosby alternativeBrowns insider floats idea of landing Brendan Sorsby with Jeremiah Smith in strange way

This is a locator map for Afghanistan with its capital, Kabul. (AP Photo)2026-06-10T02:42:50Z KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — Afghanistan said Wednesday that Pakistan launched new airstrikes targeting the country, killing at least 13 people and wounding 14 others. The countries have engaged in months of fighting that has killed hundreds of people.Taliban chief spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the latest airstrikes targeted the Afghan provinces of Khost, Kunar and Paktika and killed 11 children, one woman and one elderly man.There was no immediate acknowledgment of the strikes from Pakistan.The strikes came a day after suspected Pakistani Taliban militants attacked a security post in the Hasan Khel area of northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan, triggering an intense gunbattle in which six members of the Federal Constabulary were killed and several others wounded, according to Pakistan’s Interior Ministry. Local authorities said Tuesday that security forces killed eight of the attackers and thwarted an attempt to overrun the checkpoint. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi later attended funeral prayers for the dead personnel in Peshawar, the ministry said. Naqvi paid tribute to the dead and expressed condolences to their families, saying their sacrifices would not be forgotten. He also said Pakistan remained united in its fight against militancy and that operations against groups threatening peace and security would be intensified. Pakistan and Afghanistan have engaged in deadly fighting since late February, when Afghanistan launched a cross-border attack on Pakistan in retaliation for Pakistani airstrikes inside Afghanistan. Read More Pakistan in February declared it was in open war with its Afghanistan, following a surge in militant attacks on civilians and security forces inside Pakistan. Afghanistan has said a deadly Pakistani airstrikes in March hit a drug-treatment center in Kabul, killing more than 400 people. The death toll could not be independently confirmed. Pakistan has disputed the claim and denied targeting civilians, saying it struck an ammunition depot. 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. The latest development comes months after China hosted peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Urumqi, in northern China, and later Beijing said Afghanistan and Pakistan had agreed not to escalate their conflict and to explore a solution.Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants that carry out deadly attacks inside Pakistan, especially the Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP. The group is separate from, but allied with, the Afghan Taliban, which has ruled Afghanistan since it seized power in the country in 2021 amid the chaotic withdrawal of U.S.-led troops. Kabul denies the charge.___Ahmed reported from Islamabad.

Microsoft's Bill Gates attends a dinner with President Donald Trump in the State Dining Room of the White House, Sept. 4, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)2026-06-10T04:10:45Z WASHINGTON (AP) — Bill Gates will appear Wednesday before a congressional panel investigating the Jeffrey Epstein files, becoming the latest powerful figure linked to the disgraced financier to testify. Members of the House Oversight Committee are slated to interview the billionaire Microsoft co-founder behind closed doors, as they have done with other witnesses in the investigation. Transcripts are often released later.Republican U.S. Rep. James Comer, the committee chairman, formally requested that Gates testify after he appeared multiple times in a trove of documents released by the Justice Department as part of its Epstein probe.The files read like a who’s who of powerful men across tech, finance, politics and other industries. All have denied involvement in Epstein’s crimes, but some maintained or formed friendships with him even after his history of sexual abuse came to light. Included in the files are calendar entries for meetings between Gates and Epstein, email correspondence between the two about philanthropic projects and photos of Gates at events that Epstein also attended. Their professional relationship began in 2011, three years after Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor, and lasted until at least late 2014, according to the documents.Epstein was federally indicted in July 2019 on charges of sex trafficking of minors and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors. The Justice Department alleged that Epstein formed a vast network of underage girls, some as young as 14, for him to sexually abuse between 2002 and 2005. He died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial. Read More Gates, who chairs the Gates Foundation, has not been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein and has denied any knowledge of Epstein’s abuse of girls. He has said they met only to discuss philanthropy and has called his association with Epstein “a huge mistake.” Both Gates and his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, have said his association with Epstein created tension in their marriage.The foundation acknowledged in February that a small number of employees had met with Epstein based on his “claims that he could mobilize significant philanthropic resources for global health.” They never created a charitable fund together, and the foundation made no payments to Epstein.Foundation CEO Mark Suzman commissioned an external review in March to examine its past engagement with Epstein.At another closed-door deposition in February, former President Bill Clinton faced more than six hours of questioning from lawmakers about his association with Epstein more than two decades ago. Epstein had visited the White House several times during Clinton’s presidency, and Clinton flew occasionally on Epstein’s private jet. The former Democratic president said he had seen no signs of Epstein’s sexual abuse and stopped associating with him long before Epstein’s 2008 guilty plea. Clinton has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.Democrats on the House committee have pushed for testimony from President Donald Trump, a Republican who had his own relationship with Epstein. Republicans have said they have not come across any evidence that Trump did anything wrong during his well-documented friendship with Epstein.___Schoenbaum reported from Salt Lake City. HANNAH SCHOENBAUM Schoenbaum is a national reporter for The Associated Press, based Salt Lake City, Utah. She covers politics, policy and breaking news in the Mountain West and beyond. twitter mailto JOEY CAPPELLETTI Cappelletti covers Congress for The Associated Press. He previously reported on Michigan politics for AP. twitter mailto 获取更多RSS：https://feedx.net https://feedx.site

A Palestinian girl looks out a window at the rubble of a home demolished by Israeli authorities in the Silwan neighborhood of east Jerusalem, May 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean)2026-06-10T04:15:03Z JERUSALEM (AP) — Fakhri Abu Diab fought for decades to save his home. But when Israeli authorities arrived with bulldozers two years ago, he was powerless to stop them.He and his wife now live among shards of memory: a bicycle where his bedroom stood; the garden where he planted tomatoes as a boy; a portrait of his late mother painted on a wall, based on a photograph lost in the demolition. Their mobile home, set up amid the rubble, is also marked for removal.They are “trying to erase my memories, my childhood, my history,” he said, wiping away tears.For decades, Israel has worked to expand the Jewish presence in annexed east Jerusalem — the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and home to major Jewish, Christian and Muslim sites. Settlers have exploited discriminatory policies and archaeological claims to evict Palestinians far from the region’s war zones. Activists say those efforts have gone into overdrive in recent years, as Israel is no longer constrained by U.S. pressure and attention has shifted to Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.Over 260 homes and other structures were demolished in 2025, a 70% increase from three years earlier, with some neighborhoods seeing the most evictions in decades, according to Ir Amim, an Israeli anti-settlement group that closely tracks such policies. There have been at least 116 demolitions so far this year, it said.It’s “an intensity and scope that we have never seen,” said Aviv Tatarsky, a researcher at Ir Amim. “Israel can decide, yes, this neighborhood, we want to erase it … No one is going to stop us.” Israeli government supports settlement growthIsrael captured east Jerusalem, along with the West Bank and Gaza, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians want all three territories for their future state, and the U.N. and much of the international community consider them to be illegally occupied.Israel considers all of Jerusalem to be its unified capital and says residents are treated equally by law.Palestinians in annexed east Jerusalem are eligible for Israeli citizenship, but unlike Jews, they must apply for it — a long, uncertain process. Most choose not to because it would recognize Israel’s claims to the city. That leaves them with few ways to challenge housing policy, largely set by Israel’s Parliament. Read More Rights activists say that in addition to supporting the development of major Jewish settlements — which many Israelis view as ordinary neighborhoods — authorities have severely limited the growth of Palestinian neighborhoods, making it virtually impossible to obtain housing permits. Last year, nearly 9,000 permits were approved for Jerusalem’s Jewish residents and fewer than 700 for Palestinians, according to Bimkom, an Israeli rights group. Palestinians make up some 40% of Jerusalem’s population and are concentrated in the east. 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. Israeli officials say the discrepancy exists because Palestinians rarely apply for permits. Many Palestinians say it’s futile.When Palestinians build without permits, they face the threat of demolition. Settler groups meanwhile exploit an array of laws to purchase or take over Palestinian properties. Previous U.S. administrations have pressed Israel to slow or suspend settlement projects, viewing them as an obstacle to resolving the conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump broke with that tradition in his first term, recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.The U.S. State Department said in a statement that it’s up to Israeli authorities to set policy in Jerusalem, and that it expects them to respect due process and the rule of law.The neighborhood is near major religious sitesAbu Diab’s neighborhood, al-Bustan, extends through a valley just outside the Old City, with the dome of the Al-Aqsa Mosque visible above the towering walls. Named for the orchards that once grew there, the neighborhood is now a crowded jumble of low concrete blocks and demolition sites.It’s part of the larger district of Silwan, home to some 20,000 Palestinians and coveted by settlers because it is near major religious and archaeological sites. The mosque is the third holiest in Islam, and the hilltop where it stands is the holiest site for Jews, who refer to it as the Temple Mount because it was where the two Jewish temples stood in antiquity. The Jerusalem municipality said the homes in al-Bustan are being demolished because they were built without permits in areas not zoned for housing. A park and public parking lot will be established there for the benefit of all residents, it said in a statement.The municipality said it put forward plans for alternative housing in the neighborhood but that residents did not show “serious intentions” to reach an agreement.Abu Diab has been battling demolition orders in court since 2004. Part of his home was built before 1967, but his growing family expanded it without permits because it was impossible to get them, he said.In February 2024, police gave him and his wife minutes to pack before demolishing their home. Since then, they have lived in the mobile home, their suitcases packed.They are among some 1,500 Palestinians in al-Bustan whose homes could be demolished at any time. Settlers move in as Palestinians are evictedA short distance away, in the congested Batan al-Hawah neighborhood, settlers are moving in as Palestinians are evicted.Zuhair al-Rajabi and dozens of his extended family were ordered out in January, when Israel’s Supreme Court ruled against them after more than a decade of legal action.Thumbing through papers in his living room, he pulled out a document from 1966 saying the property is his. He says he has to leave by July but has nowhere to go, as rents are high in Jerusalem. “The problem, in short, is that they don’t want us here,” he said.March marked the highest rate of state-led evictions in the neighborhood in decades, with 15 families forced out and hundreds more people at risk, according to B’Tselem, an Israeli rights group.Israeli laws allow settlers to reclaim properties that were owned by other Jews before the 1948 war surrounding Israel’s creation. Palestinians who fled or were driven from their homes in what is now Israel during that conflict are barred from returning. Authorities have also transferred state-held land to settler groups.The Batan al-Hawah evictions show “the cooperation between settler organizations and state institutions, based on discriminatory laws, toward a shared goal — the Judaization of east Jerusalem and the replacement of Palestinian residents with Israeli settlers,” said Yair Dvir, a spokesperson for B’Tselem.The Israeli judiciary, in a statement, said courts rule on the merits of each case based on the circumstances, applicable law and established precedent, and denied colluding with private organizations.Daniel Luria, the executive director of Ateret Cohanim, one of the main settler organizations in east Jerusalem, said it was working to correct a “monumental historical injustice” by helping Jews to return to what had been a Yemenite and Sephardic Jewish neighborhood up until the early 20th century, when he says they were expelled by Arabs and then again by the British.Since 2004, around 50 Jewish families have moved into the neighborhood and more are eager to join them, he said. “There’s never going to be a Palestinian state,” he added.An Israeli flag waves above the home where Khalil Basbous was evicted in January. The 68-year-old moved into a relative’s house around the corner but walks past his former home every day.“It’s mine,” he said, wiping tears from his face and softly touching an olive tree he had planted by the door. “I have no doubt that I will return.” SAM MEDNICK Mednick is an AP correspondent for Israel and the Palestinian Territories. She focuses on conflict, humanitarian crises and human rights abuses. Mednick formerly covered West & Central Africa and South Sudan. twitter

Microsoft's Bill Gates attends a dinner with President Donald Trump in the State Dining Room of the White House, Sept. 4, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)2026-06-10T04:32:33Z A large, burning cross was discovered at a Chicago park on Tuesday afternoon, and police said they are investigating how it ended up there and the motive behind it.Video taken by a motorist shows the wooden cross engulfed in bright orange flames as it leans against a tree in Grant Park, a popular area near Lake Michigan. The Chicago Fire Department confirmed the flaming object was a cross, and said officials put out the fire. Chicago Police said there were no reports of injuries and that they are investigating the motive and circumstances around the “object on fire.”Keinika Carlton, 43, was driving home from running errands with her daughter and mother-in-law when they saw the cross on fire. She said she felt a combination of shock, sadness, disgust, as well as curiosity.“Is this a racial thing? Is this a religious thing?” she said. “As Black women, of course, our first thought is racial, because burning crosses are known to be used as a tactic, an act of violence toward Black Americans in the South.” Carlton estimated the cross was at least 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall. The experience was new to all of them, including Carlton’s mother-in-law, who grew up in Kentucky. Carlton said as they slowed down to shoot a video of the flames, she saw around her other cars slowing down and people walking nearby, staring at the cross burning. While the motive behind the burning cross was not immediately clear, cross burnings in the U.S. have historically been seen as “symbols of hate” that are “inextricably intertwined with the history of the Ku Klux Klan,” according to a 2003 U.S. Supreme Court decision written by the late Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. The justices ruled that the First Amendment allows bans on cross burnings only when they are intended to intimidate because the action “is a particularly virulent form of intimidation.”Alyna Carlton, 22, said she never thought she would see something like that in her lifetime.“It kind of really opened my eyes, had me realize that I’m not that far removed from the past.”

A priest celebrates Mass in the crypt of Antoni Gaudí beneath the Sagrada Familia while crowds of visitors fill the basilica above in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti)2026-06-10T04:20:09Z BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — The Sagrada Familia basilica features sandcastle-like spires, stone carved to look like lush flora, a kaleidoscopic interior and a trove of treasures, some hiding in plain sight. Even regular worshippers at Barcelona’s world-famous landmark find themselves dumbstruck with wonder.Josep Turull, the Catalan rector of the Sagrada Familia and the priest in charge of its parish activities, recently granted The Associated Press a private tour to show off his favorite gems ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s highly anticipated Mass on Wednesday night.“We say that one of the elements of the Sagrada Familia Basilica is that you never exhaust it,” Turull said. “I have spent the last eight years as its rector, and each day I discover something new.” 1. Enigmas are engraved in the façadesEach morning, Turull approaches the basilica’s elaborately decorated façades. They are packed with an abundance of religious scenes and symbols, some easy to interpret for anyone with a basic understanding of Christianity, while others are mysterious and even shocking to see in a church.The westward-looking Façade of the Passion is stark, its figures tormented, their bodies strained in angular poses. That was how architect Antoni Gaudí wanted it — “harsh and cruel, as if made of bones,” to show the pain and torment of Christ’s final days.Decades after Gaudí’s own death, sculptor Josep Subirachs tempered the façade’s misery with some playful elements. There’s Gaudí himself, above the central door, staring across at Jesus carrying his cross to Calvary. And what’s that suduko-like numbered grid next to Judas kissing Jesus before his betrayal? Read More The “magic square” symbolizes the inevitability of Christ’s death; adding the numbers in any direction always produces 33, Jesus’s age at his crucifixion. A detail of the Passion Façade shows the basilica's famous magic square at the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. Unlike a sudoku, every row, column and diagonal adds up to 33, symbolizing the age of Christ at his death.(AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A detail of the Passion Façade shows the basilica's famous magic square at the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. Unlike a sudoku, every row, column and diagonal adds up to 33, symbolizing the age of Christ at his death.(AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 A small square-shaped labyrinth is photographed at the Passion Façade at the basilica's Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A small square-shaped labyrinth is photographed at the Passion Façade at the basilica's Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 Another puzzle awaits the patient eye that drifts across to the scene of Peter denying Christ: a small, square-shaped labyrinth. Turull said that it alludes to the need to keep faith in God when we feel lost. 2. The tower tops hold cornucopias and real birds of preyAfter celebrating Mass, Leo will step outside to offer a blessing for the Tower of Jesus Christ that made the Sagrada Familia the world’s tallest church when it was raised in October.The basilica’s heights are bursting with nature, from the rooster who crowed while Peter denied Christ to reptiles doing the job of gargoyles, and piles of fruit that crown its spires.There are also flesh-and-blood beasts; a family of peregrine falcons nest in the tower dedicated to St. James, keeping away pigeons and, more importantly, their excrement.Gaudí’s masterpiece was chosen as one of the ideal spots to reintroduce the species, as it was one of the last locations in town where these birds nested before disappearing during the 1970’s. The falcons have been breeding successfully at the basilica for over two decades.Turull said that these lightning-fast birds of prey “recover the cycle of natural life.” Josep Maria Turull, rector of the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, holds a cross-shaped relic beside cabinets containing some of the basilica’s most precious relics and liturgical vestments in Barcelona, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Josep Maria Turull, rector of the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, holds a cross-shaped relic beside cabinets containing some of the basilica’s most precious relics and liturgical vestments in Barcelona, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 3. The tour goes underground to find Gaudí’s cryptFor the millions of annual visitors who admire the colored light filtering through the basilica’s stained-glass windows, jostle for position to snap selfies and huddle around tour guides, it is easy to overlook what Turull calls its “spiritual heart.” That requires going through a modest side entrance and descending a staircase.Underground is a much smaller, more intimate chapel, where dozens of worshippers silently attend Mass and faith manages to keep sightseeing at bay.Fittingly, it is here where Gaudí, a fervent Catholic, rests in a discreet tomb set inside a nook. He died exactly 100 years ago to the day when he was hit by a streetcar. A priest celebrates Mass in the crypt of Antoni Gaudí beneath the Sagrada Familia while crowds of visitors fill the basilica above in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A priest celebrates Mass in the crypt of Antoni Gaudí beneath the Sagrada Familia while crowds of visitors fill the basilica above in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 Antoni Gaudí's tomb is photographed inside crypt of Gaudí beneath the Sagrada Família as crowds of visitors fill the basilica above in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Antoni Gaudí's tomb is photographed inside crypt of Gaudí beneath the Sagrada Família as crowds of visitors fill the basilica above in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 “People come to ask for his intercession,” Turull said, gesturing to the tomb interred in the floor. “That’s why there are so many candles. Because people place their trust in him. Many people have received favors for having prayed at the tomb of Gaudí.”The Vatican is in the midst of a decades-long process that could eventually make Gaudí a saint. After Pope Francis named Gaudí “venerable” in 2025, the Vatican must now confirm a miracle attributed to his intercession for him to be beatified, then a second miracle for him to be canonized.The basilica has proposed that the pope pray at Gaudí’s tomb during his visit, but whether he does remains to be seen. 4. A seashell for holy waterBefore ascending, Turull pauses at an enormous seashell — a real one, not made of stone — that serves as a basin for holy water. He said that Gaudí had the seashell from the Philippines set in wrought iron and fixed to the column.“Gaudí always takes nature as an example,” Turull said, referencing the way the natural world inspired his designs and decorations. 5. A changing room fit for a popeUp a twisting staircase, a private room bathed in sunlight houses two freestanding oak cabinets laced with intricate ironwork. Designed by Gaudí, they hold the basilica’s most precious relics and most important clerical clothing. Among them is Pope Benedict XVI’s chasuble — a cloak that clergy wear when celebrating Mass — from when he consecrated the Sagrada Familia in 2010.This is where Pope Leo will change into a chasuble that is being sewn at a workshop just for this occasion.Turull said the vestment will feature details symbolizing the day’s importance and a design related to the basilica’s recently raised Cross of Jesus Christ. But he won’t say anything more for now; some things need to stay secret. A changing room where Pope Leo XIV will vest before presiding over Mass is seen at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A changing room where Pope Leo XIV will vest before presiding over Mass is seen at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, May 15, 2026. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) 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 ___AP videojournalist Hernán Muñoz contributed to this report. JOSEPH WILSON Wilson covers Spanish news and sports for The Associated Press. He is based in Barcelona. twitter mailto

Graham Platner won the Democratic primary for Senate in Maine and quickly turned his populist message against Susan Collins, the Republican incumbent.

In a move that was as unceremonious as it was unprecedented, Suryakumar Yadav was not only removed from India's T20 captaincy but also dropped from the squad itself, just three months after he led India to the 2026 T20 World Cup title.It was a monumental call by the BCCI selection committee and, perhaps, the right one, given the evident dip in Suryakumar Yadav's form over the last year and a half.Yet, there's no denying that Surya has been the finest T20 batter India has ever produced. Possessing a range of shots unmatched in Indian cricket and astonishingly flexible wrists, he could send the same delivery over deep third, covers, midwicket or fine leg.But beyond his individual brilliance, Suryakumar's role was also instrumental in transforming the way T20 cricket is played in India.India's T20 journey can almost be divided into two phases: before and after Suryakumar Yadav. There was a distinct style of T20 cricket India played before Surya came into the side, and it looks very different now, five years after his debut and at a time when he has been left out of the squad.India before SuryaBefore Suryakumar made his debut, there were 12 batters who had faced 300 or more balls for India in T20Is. Among them, Virat Kohli had the highest average at 49.63, while KL Rahul had the highest strike rate at 144.48. In fact, Rahul was the only one among them with a strike rate above 140.Rohit Sharma had a strike rate of 138.79, Kohli 138.11, Yuvraj Singh 136.38 and MS Dhoni 126.13.Among all Indian batters who had faced at least 300 balls before Surya's debut, Yuvraj had the best six-hitting rate, striking a six every 11.66 balls. Rohit hit one every 15.73 balls, Kohli every 26.17 balls and Dhoni every 24.65 balls.Indian T20 batting was full of anchors and run accumulators rather than hitters, a requirement of the format, which was one of the reasons India had fallen behind in the T20 race.Balls per six of Indian batters till Mar13, 2021 (min 300 balls)PlayerBalls FacedSixesBalls per SixYuvraj Singh8637411.66Rohit Sharma199812715.73KL Rahul10686316.95Shreyas Iyer3762117.9Rishabh Pant3601918.95Raina11905820.52MS Dhoni12825224.65Virat Kohli21208126.17S Dhawan13134926.8Manish Pandey5621929.58Ajinkya Rahane331655.17G Gambhir7831078.3Six off Jofra and the beginning of India's T20 revolutionWhen Suryakumar Yadav walked out to bat for the first time in T20Is against England in the fourth match of the series in March 2021, he was surrounded by three anchors — Rohit, Rahul and Kohli.Facing his first ball in T20Is, from Jofra Archer in Ahmedabad, Suryakumar nonchalantly played a one-legged ramp hook, sending the England pacer over deep backward square leg for six. That shot would come to symbolise the breaking of India's conservative T20 batting mould and mark the beginning of the country's modern, high-intent T20 revolution.The next stepAverages, when looked at in isolation, can often be a misleading metric to judge a batter in T20 cricket. However, when viewed alongside strike rate, they can offer a clearer picture. They can help explain, though not always, whether a batter is scoring quickly enough to to win the game, or merely preserving their wicket.Some batters may have an average above 30 or 35 in T20s, while others may possess a strike rate touching 170.But sustaining both over a long period is difficult. Unless you are Suryakumar Yadav.From Surya's debut in 2021 until India's T20 World Cup triumph in Barbados in 2024, 10 batters faced 300 or more balls for India in T20Is. Among them, Kohli had the best average at 46.67 but a strike rate of 134.62.Suryakumar not only had the second-best average at 43.33 during this period, he also struck at 167.74. He was India's highest run-scorer with 2,340 runs and also had the best strike rate among those batters.He was scoring more runs than anyone else in the team while also scoring them faster than anyone else, hitting a six every 10.49 balls.Between 2022 and 2023, there was arguably no more destructive batter in T20 cricket than Surya. In 2022 alone, he scored 1,158 T20I runs at an average of 48.2 and a strike rate of 187. He followed it with 733 runs in 2023 at an average of 48.9. In those two years, he averaged 48.5 while striking at 173.6.India's talisman in T20Is was named the ICC Men's T20I Cricketer of the Year in both 2022 and 2023. He was the first Indian to win the award and won it in consecutive years.Suryakumar Yadav had the best six-hitting frequency among all Indian batters who faced at least 300 balls between Mar 13, 2021 - Jun 30, 2024 PlayerBalls facedSixesBalls per sixSuryakumar Yadav139513310.49YBK Jaiswal3102811.07RG Sharma10057812.88HH Pandya7785314.68KL Rahul5603615.56Ishan Kishan6403617.78RD Gaikwad3572017.85SS Iyer4352318.91V Kohli9364321.77RR Pant5552423.13India under SuryaUntil the 2024 T20 World Cup, Surya was the lone T20 specialist in the side for much of the period. Shivam Dube was the other one after returning to the team in late 2023.When Surya took over the captaincy after the 2024 T20 World Cup, he did not replace Rohit and Kohli with more anchors. Instead, he backed players like Abhishek Sharma and handed Sanju Samson a permanent opening role.Surya injected his fearless DNA into the batting line-up and oversaw the team's transformation into a six-hitting powerhouse, making India one of the most destructive and difficult teams to beat in the world.Eight batters faced 250 or more balls for India between the end of the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2026 T20 World Cup. Among them, four maintained strike rates above 160, with Ishan Kishan leading at 207.00, followed by Abhishek Sharma at 190.46.Only two batters scored at a strike rate below 150 — Tilak Varma (147.62) and Shubman Gill (133.50). Surya struck at 152.04 while averaging 25.89.Kishan also had the best six-hitting frequency, clearing the ropes once every 7.56 balls faced, narrowly ahead of Abhishek Sharma at 7.86.Before Surya made his India debut, only one of the team's leading T20 batters hit a six every 12 balls or fewer. Now, at a time when he has been left out of the squad, five of India's top eight batters clear the ropes every 10 balls or fewer.Balls per six of Indian batters from Jun 30, 2024 - Mar 8, 2026 (min. 250 balls)PlayerBalls facedSixesBalls per sixIshan Kishan257347.56Abhishek Sharma755967.86S Dube337418.22SV Samson611698.86HH Pandya5094810.6RK Singh2251812.5NT Tilak Varma7145612.75SA Yadav6134613.33AR Patel208634.67Shubman Gill4001040Face of India's T20 revolutionIt is often difficult to separate a player from the era he plays in. T20 cricket was changing everywhere when Suryakumar Yadav made his debut. Teams were scoring faster, batters were taking more risks and the range of shots kept expanding. It is entirely possible that India would eventually have moved in the same direction even without him. The demands of the format were pushing every team towards a more aggressive brand of cricket.Yet it is hard to ignore how clearly India's transformation in the format overlaps with Surya's time in the side and how often he stood at the centre of it.India still had one foot in an older version of T20 cricket when Surya came into the side. Now, at a time when he has been left out of the squad, India have become a team filled with hitters and T20 specialists who go full throttle from ball one and hit more sixes than ever before. Surya was not solely responsible for that change, but he was at its centre.Surya's greatest skill has not been power but access. A fast bowler could deliver a good ball outside off stump and watch it disappear over fine leg with that now-famous supla shot. A spinner trying to cramp him for room could still be lofted over covers. Few players have manipulated a field the way he did. Fewer still have done it while scoring as many runs as he did.That success is visible in the numbers: 3,272 runs, 25 fifties, four hundreds, a strike rate of 162.9, two T20 World Cup titles and an unbeaten record in bilateral series as captain in T20Is. For a player who did not make his T20I debut until the age of 30, it is a body of work few could have imagined.In sport, you never say never and comebacks are always possible. Yet whether or not Surya adds to his T20I numbers, his influence on Indian T20 cricket is unlikely to fade. Few players have been as closely associated with a shift in how a team thinks about a format. India's T20 revolution had many contributors, but Surya was one of its most visible faces and its clearest expression.

Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty ImagesMexico begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against South Africa in Mexico City on June 11, with South Korea and Czechia completing a Group A that looks more awkward than comfortable for the co-hosts.The co-hosts begin the tournament under familiar scrutiny. Mexico have twice reached the World Cup quarter-finals on home soil, in 1970 and 1986, and this group gives Javier Aguirre’s side another chance to build momentum in front of their own supporters.The format is different this time. The expanded 48-team tournament sends the top two sides in every group into the Round of 32, along with the eight best third-place finishers.That gives Group A a wider margin for movement. Mexico start as the strongest side on paper, but South Korea, Czechia and South Africa each have a clear route to keep their tournament alive.MexicoPhoto by Omar Vega/Getty ImagesMexico enter Group A with the biggest expectation and the strongest case to finish top. They are ranked 15th by FIFA in the supplied tournament guide, qualified automatically as hosts, and open the tournament against South Africa.Their matches are South Africa in Mexico City on June 11, South Korea in Guadalajara on June 18, and Czechia back in Mexico City on June 24.That schedule gives Mexico two group matches in the capital. It also means every performance will be judged against the pressure of home advantage.Mexico’s best World Cup results came as hosts in 1970 and 1986, when they reached the quarter-finals. That history is useful, but it also raises the standard for Javier Aguirre’s side.Raúl Jiménez, Edson Álvarez, Guillermo Ochoa and Gilberto Mora are the key players. Jiménez gives them centre-forward pedigree, Álvarez gives them control, Ochoa brings vast tournament experience and Mora adds youthful invention.The expectation is clear. Mexico should win Group A, but they cannot treat it as routine. If they fail to beat South Africa, the South Korea match immediately becomes uncomfortable.South AfricaSouth Africa are ranked 60th by FIFA in the supplied tournament guide and arrive as the lowest-ranked team in the group. That makes them outsiders, but not irrelevant.Their matches are Mexico in Mexico City on June 11, Czechia in Atlanta on June 18, and South Korea in Monterrey on June 24.That is a demanding route, but the order gives them a clear target. If South Africa can stay competitive against Mexico, the Czechia match becomes the one that could define their tournament.South Africa have not reached the World Cup knockout stage before. The 48-team format gives them a more realistic chance to change that.Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Lyle Foster and Ronwen Williams are the key names. Mbokazi gives them defensive promise, Foster is the main scoring threat and Williams brings captaincy and penalty-box authority.South Africa are not the team most likely to escape Group A. They are, however, exactly the sort of side that can turn one disciplined performance into a historic opportunity.South KoreaSouth Korea are the team Mexico should respect most. They are ranked 25th by FIFA in the supplied tournament guide and have a stronger tournament profile than a simple second-place prediction suggests.Their matches are Czechia in Guadalajara on June 11, Mexico in Guadalajara on June 18, and South Africa in Monterrey on June 24.The opener against Czechia is vital. It may decide which side becomes Mexico’s main challenger before the second round of fixtures even begins.South Korea’s best World Cup result was fourth place in 2002, when they co-hosted the tournament with Japan. They have not matched that run since, but their tournament continuity matters in a group like this.Son Heung-min, Kim Min-jae and Lee Kang-in make them dangerous in different ways. Son remains the headline player, Kim gives them defensive authority and Lee offers craft between the lines.This is why Mexico cannot coast. South Korea have enough quality to win the group if Mexico start slowly or lose control of the midfield battle on June 18.CzechiaCzechia are ranked 41st by FIFA in the supplied tournament guide and are the awkward opponent in Group A. They do not carry Mexico’s pressure or South Korea’s profile, but they have the tools to make the group tighter.Their matches are South Korea in Guadalajara on June 11, South Africa in Atlanta on June 18, and Mexico in Mexico City on June 24.That first match is crucial. A win over South Korea would change the shape of Group A immediately.As Czechia, their only previous World Cup appearance came in 2006, when they exited in the group stage. This squad has a chance to reset the country’s modern World Cup story.Patrik Schick, Pavel Šulc and Tomáš Souček are the key players. Schick is the obvious finishing threat, Šulc adds attacking support and Souček gives them experience, height and midfield presence.That matters in this group. Czechia do not need to dominate possession to hurt teams. They need territory, discipline and one clean delivery.Mexico remain the right pick to win Group A. The ranking, schedule and home advantage all point in that direction.But the better reading is that Group A is not safe. South Korea are too strong to dismiss, Czechia are too awkward to overlook and South Africa have enough of a route through the format to make every match count.Read more:‘Christian Pulisic is never going to be the leader…’ USMNT legend makes bold World Cup claimAlmost 180,000 World Cup tickets still on resale market as US among teams yet to sell out gamesKylian Mbappe says why Cristiano Ronaldo will score more than Lionel Messi at the World Cup

Reds snap skid behind Sal Stewart's extra-inning heroics vs. Padres originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Cincinnati Reds rookie Sal Stewart powered the team to an important extra-innings 5-3 victory against the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night. After going through a difficult stretch that included multiple game collapses in the five-game losing streak, the Reds found much-needed spark off the barrel of Stewart, who struck a decisive blow in extra innings. In the 11th inning, the 22-year-old hit his 13th home run of the season against Yuki Matsui to break the 3-3 tie. Reliever Zach Maxwell did the rest of the job in the bottom half of the innings to give the Reds only their third win in 12 games.Sal Stewart puts the @Reds ahead in the 11th! pic.twitter.com/8WAhBlGUNj— MLB (@MLB) June 10, 2026MORE: Reds' Sal Stewart is a favorite to win a major award in MLBReds tie series against Padres with timely offensePreviously, the Reds suffered a 6-2 loss against the Padres in the series opener at Petco Park. On Tuesday, they jumped to a 2-0 lead in the top of the second inning with Tyler Stephenson's RBI single and JJ Bleday reaching home on a Padres' error. Jackson Merrill's RBI triple off Chase Burns cut the Reds' lead in half. The Padres tied the game with Manny Machado's RBI single in the third inning.The tie remained in place through the end of regulation as extra innings were forced. In the 10th, both teams scored. Eugenio Suarez hit an RBI double for the Reds. The Padres tied the scores again with Samad Taylor's game-tying single off Tejay Antone.Finally, the tie was broken apart by Sal Stewart, and the Reds held onto the two-run lead through the end of the 11th inning, to tie the series.More MLB news:Rangers 1B tipped as trade candidate in favor of resurgenceRoki Sasaki explains why there was no 'magic fix' behind dominant Dodgers outingDiamondbacks turn Shohei Ohtani triple ball into viral business moveWhat if Shohei Ohtani faced Shohei Ohtani? The answer may surprise MLB fans

A giant structure obstructs the view of the White House from the South Lawn. As tall as the iconic building itself, this star-spangled, red, white and blue structure looks like it could be the stage for a music festival, or a stomach-depressing stretch on a rollercoaster track. In reality, it is something much more surreal.The “Claw”, as Donald Trump calls it, will loom over a cage on Sunday, as seven UFC fights play out at the White House. And if the US president has his way, as he so often does, the Claw might stay forever. Sunday’s unique, inevitably blood-stained celebration of 250 years of the United States (and Mr Trump’s 80th birthday, coincidentally or not) almost defies belief. Almost. UFC president and CEO Dana White ringside at a recent boxing event (PA)If this was any other administration, any other president, then the conceptual seeds of UFC Freedom 250 would have never even been planted, let alone watered over the course of a year – to the point of sprouting. You could take that as a compliment of Mr Trump or a criticism, I suppose.So, somehow, here we are, with arguably the most-unprecedented sporting event of all time soon getting under way. Forget a federal lawsuit seeking to block these fights from taking place; the show must go on. To metaphorically drag a boxing tradition into mixed martial arts: the first bell on UFC Freedom 250 will soon ring out, the diminutive hammer is in the time keeper’s hand.And when UFC Freedom 250 plays out, with few actual fans ringside but 85,000 watching on big screens in the nearby Ellipse park, it will be glitz and glamour galore. Mr Trump’s close friend Dana White, the UFC’s president and CEO, has said that TV-production awards should be abolished altogether if this event wins none. It’s hyperbole, of course, to which White is more than prone, but it’s also curious because of how starkly it stands in contrast to the UFC’s weekly product. Over the last couple of years, the UFC has come under increasing criticism for its output. A peak has passed, it feels. Fans have complained about what they deem weaker fight cards with fewer consequential bouts; events playing out in the small and soulless UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas; and the UFC’s seemingly-lacking promotional efforts.Indeed, it has been increasingly rare for the UFC to go on the road and put on events in front of baying crowds of 20,000 or so. Instead, the Apex (first used during Covid, allowing the UFC to keep trucking on) is the UFC’s cheaper preference, with a smattering of fans watching fights that feel more like sparring sessions. And it’s not uncommon to see Fight Nights headlined by two low-ranked fighters, meaning the winner will not even move into the title picture in their division – this is what fans mean by inconsequence.A look at the UFC’s Apex facility in Las Vegas, where only a small crowd can attend (Getty)And that apparently-reduced effort when it comes to promotion? See Conor McGregor’s failed 2024 comeback, which (before it was derailed by the Irishman’s broken toe) was announced by White reading from a scrap of paper at a post-fight press conference. There was no great trailer to hype up fans, as there would have been in years gone by. Or see the retirement of all-time great Jon Jones last summer, a seismic moment that was revealed by White in a throwaway comment at another press conference, after a night of fights in Azerbaijan.White, 56, has recently ventured into boxing promotion, and although Zuffa Boxing’s output has been similarly uninspiring, the American continues to insist he is the best promoter out there. He recently compared competing with longtime boxing promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren to “beating up babies”. A poor choice of words, but also difficult to agree with. Hearn and Warren have shown themselves to be up for the fight, and their recent events have shown how far Zuffa has to go.This is especially strange given the feeling among many fans that White, at the moment at least, is much more passionate about his boxing venture than the UFC.All of that said, he will certainly be motivated to make UFC Freedom 250 land, not least as a means of pleasing his friend Mr Trump. White will also be emboldened by this week’s news, after he was named in Time magazine’s 100 most-influential sports figures for 2026. The UFC hosted an impressive event at Vegas’s Sphere in 2024 (Getty)Plus, when the UFC last took a big swing, hosting a unique event at Vegas’s Sphere in 2024, it largely delivered. So, there is precedent for White and his team to deliver when it matters most.And as a fight fan, you hope they do exactly that on Sunday. Whatever thoughts you might have on the setting and background of UFC Freedom 250, and for any claims by White that this is “not political”, there’s an argument to ignore any jingoism and try to focus on the fights – to hope they deliver. Still, without wanting to do an immediate about turn, it could be said that the fight card is not as strong as it should be (certainly not as strong as White promised). But after fans generally voiced dismay at the match-ups back in March, it feels like time and distance have offered an opportunity for reflection; this is still a strong collection of fights overall, and any opportunity to see pound-for-pound stars Ilia Topuria and Alex Pereira in action is welcomed.Importantly, many of Sunday’s fights have ramifications for the summits of their divisions, meaning UFC Freedom 250 is built on the kinds of stakes that fans have long craved. In that way, this unprecedented event can have a short-term legacy that appeases fans, to go along with whatever larger, long-term legacy it develops. And given the scope of UFC Freedom 250, it’s near-impossible to predict what that long-term legacy will be.

Official: Benfica confirm Real Madrid have paid €15m to bring back Jose MourinhoJose Mourinho is set to return to Real Madrid after Benfica officially confirmed that the Spanish giants have completed all procedures required to appoint the Portuguese coach.The move sees Florentino Perez deliver on one of the biggest promises of his election campaign, with Real Madrid paying €15 million to activate Mourinho’s release clause and secure his return to the Santiago Bernabeu.As such, Mourinho’s return is expected to generate huge excitement, particularly given the impact he had during his previous stint between 2010 and 2013.Benfica confirm Mourinho exitThe deal became official after Benfica released a statement confirming that Real Madrid had completed the necessary steps to appoint Mourinho.The Portuguese club announced, “Benfica SAD has informed the CMVM that Real Madrid CF has formalised its intention to sign José Mourinho for €15 million, with the coach having given his consent. “Thank you, José Mourinho.”Real Madrid paid €15 million to trigger the coach’s release clause, allowing him to leave Benfica despite still being under contract until 2027.While Mourinho becomes the first major addition of the new presidential term, he is not expected to be the last, as further reinforcements are already being lined up as part of Perez’s plans for the squad.More signings expectedMourinho arrives with vast experience, a winning pedigree and a strong connection to Real Madrid. Benfica confirm Mourinho’s departure. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)During his first spell, he helped build one of the most competitive teams in Europe and played a key role in challenging Barcelona’s dominance at the time.The Portuguese coach will arrive knowing that expectations are immediately high and he will be supported by new signings.So far, Real Madrid have agreed to sign Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer from Liverpool, while Denzel Dumfries has been signed after activating his €20 million release clause.Despite these additions, more players are expected to arrive this summer.

Cattle graze under solar panels Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at a farm in Christiana, Tenn. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel)2026-06-10T04:05:07Z Even as President Donald Trump boosts coal over clean energy, solar power is hitting new milestones in the U.S. and remains the leading source of new power.Data released Wednesday by global energy think tank Ember, along with a report by the Solar Energy Industries Association and analytics firm Wood Mackenzie, show the continued growth of solar and decline of coal in the United States despite federal policy. In May, for the first time, solar supplied more of the nation’s electricity than coal, or 12.8%, Ember said. Coal supplied 12.2%, its fourth-lowest monthly share ever.“For years solar power has risen in the U.S. electricity mix,” said Nicolas Fulghum, senior energy and data analyst at Ember. “At the same time, coal power has lost its status, first as the largest source in the U.S. mix, and then gradually over the years has fallen even further.” Solar also became the third-largest source of electricity in the U.S. in May, behind natural gas and nuclear, Fulghum said. Coal generation hit an all-time monthly low in April and rebounded only modestly in May, allowing increasing solar generation to overtake coal, he added. Electricity is produced by converting sources of energy — fossil fuels, renewable resources and nuclear — into electrical power. Burning coal, oil and natural gas for electricity emits carbon dioxide, trapping heat in the atmosphere and warming the planet. By contrast, solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower and nuclear are carbon-free. Read More After about two decades of essentially flat electricity consumption in the U.S., electricity demand is increasing to power artificial intelligence, grow domestic manufacturing and electrify transportation and heating. Fulghum said he expects to see more months where solar exceeds coal generation, before overtaking it on an annual basis in a few years. These milestones signify that solar “has staying power” at a time where there’s less support for renewable energy at the federal level, he added. Wind and solar combined have overtaken coal in the past, and wind power alone has outpaced coal during spring months when wind speeds pick up. Ember gets its hourly and monthly data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.Globally, electricity generation from renewables is growing rapidly. Renewables will become the largest global energy source, used for almost 45% of electricity generation by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency. Trump helps the struggling US coal industry while curtailing solar and wind American Electric Power’s John Amos coal-fired plant in Winfield, W.Va., is seen from Poca, W.Va., March 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) American Electric Power’s John Amos coal-fired plant in Winfield, W.Va., is seen from Poca, W.Va., March 22, 2026. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File) 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 Last week, Trump announced a plan to boost the struggling U.S. coal industry by spending nearly $700 million to support coal-fired power plants and coal exports. Trump said at a White House event that “coal’s a great business,” and that “in terms of power, there’s really nothing like it.”Martin Pochtaruk, CEO and founder of Canadian-based solar panel manufacturer Heliene, said Trump can say that coal is coming back, but investors will invest their money in whatever brings the best return. And for power generation that is solar, making it the fastest-growing fuel, he added. A White House spokeswoman defended the administration’s overall energy policies, saying they were geared toward strengthening the country’s security. “The President has reversed the Left’s devastating policies, saved the American coal industry, prevented the retirement of more than 17 gigawatts of power, and saved lives during heightened demand periods,” Taylor Rogers said in a statement. While Trump is trying to reverse the coal industry’s decline, solar has been the top source for new power for five years, SEIA said. SEIA and Wood Mackenzie said solar and battery storage were practically the only energy resources being built in the first quarter, making up 91% of all new generating capacity.The Trump administration has canceled solar and wind projects, implemented policies that slowed clean energy permitting and development and terminated $7 billion in funding intended for affordable solar energy projects across the U.S. Wind turbines are silhouetted against the sky at dusk May 15, 2026, near Cimarron, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File) Wind turbines are silhouetted against the sky at dusk May 15, 2026, near Cimarron, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File) 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 “As power demand skyrockets, political and regulatory attacks are slowing down the exact resources we rely on,” Darren Van’t Hof, interim president and CEO of SEIA, said in a statement. “Impeding the only sector that is actively building new power is a reckless gamble that will only drive electricity bills higher.” Several groups sued the Environmental Protection Agency over canceling the Solar for All program. A district court dismissed the case last week citing lack of jurisdiction. The plaintiffs have another filing pending in the Court of Federal Claims. In a ruling Saturday, a federal judge struck down guidance from the Internal Revenue Service restricting tax credits for wind and solar projects. Trump has blamed renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power for skyrocketing energy costs. But energy analysts say recent price hikes are based on growing demand, aging infrastructure and increasingly extreme weather events that are exacerbated by climate change. Most recently, the war in Iran that Trump launched has also led to a spike in energy costs.Top states for solar voted for Trump Solar panels operate on a farm with cattle Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Christiana, Tenn. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel) Solar panels operate on a farm with cattle Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Christiana, Tenn. (AP Photo/Joshua A. Bickel) 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 States won by Trump in the 2024 election accounted for 74% of all solar capacity installed in the first quarter of 2026, with Texas, Florida, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Arizona and Mississippi ranking among the top 10 states for new solar additions, SEIA said. The U.S. now exceeds a total of 6 million installations nationwide across all solar sectors, which includes large-scale solar arrays, commercial, community solar and residential or rooftop solar. Johanna Neumann, at the Environment America Research and Policy Center, said it’s “good news for our health and our planet that solar continues to grow,” and also, not surprising.“Today we can harness solar more affordably than any other energy source. It’s scalable. And it’s also our most abundant renewable energy source,” said Neumann, senior director of the center’s campaign for 100% renewable energy. “So I think it’s hard to keep the lid on a good idea, especially if the economics are tilting in your favor as well, which they are in the case of solar.”Environment America’s renewable energy dashboard shows that 32 U.S. states generated at least 10% of their retail electricity sales from solar, wind and geothermal energy last year, compared to 18 states in 2016. Clean energy in the South is booming, particularly in Florida, Arkansas and Mississippi, Neumann said.“I think there is a misconception in the United States that clean energy is something for the coasts and liberal cities,” she said. “The true story of renewable energy is a 50-state story.” ___The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. JENNIFER McDERMOTT McDermott is a reporter on the Associated Press Climate and Environment team. She focuses on the transition to clean energy. twitter mailto

As the daytime high temperature soars into the 80s, a United States Postal Service postman keeps cool by standing in the shade of a gasoline station sign posting the per-gallon prices for the various grades of fuel available Thursday, June 4, 2026, in central Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)2026-06-10T04:00:06Z WASHINGTON (AP) — Consumer prices probably jumped in May for the third straight month, heightening concerns for the inflation fighters at the Federal Reserve and underscoring the threat that rising costs pose for the Trump administration as midterm elections near. Inflation is expected to reach 4.2% in May from a year earlier when the Labor Department reports last month’s figures Wednesday, according to a survey of economists by data provider FactSet The annual increase would be up from the 3.8% reading in April. On a monthly basis, prices are forecast to have risen a hefty 0.5%, slightly below the 0.6% increase in April.Inflation had been cooling before President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs in April 2025, which lifted the costs of many goods. Prices have since surged after the Iran war made oil and gas more expensive, making affordability a key political issue. The main question now is whether inflation will fade if the war ends and oil and gas prices fall, or will it persist even after the war. Some economists worry that prices are still elevated in areas that should be unaffected by gas costs, such as dental care, motor vehicle repair, and other services. At the same time, wages are rising only modestly, which should reduce pressure on firms to raise prices further. To that end, economists and financial markets will closely watch core prices, which exclude the volatile food and energy categories. Core inflation is forecast to have risen 0.3% in May from April, according to FactSet, a pace that is consistent with annual readings far higher than the Fed’s 2% target. On an annual basis, core inflation may tick higher to 2.9% from 2.8%. Read More Gas prices have fallen this month, but they rose in May because of Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has choked off about a fifth of the world’s oil supply. Prices at the pump rose, on average, from about $4.04 in mid-April to $4.49 in mid-May, according to the Energy Information Administration. They have since fallen back to $4.16 on average nationwide, according to AAA, which could lead to a cooler inflation reading in June. 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. More expensive diesel fuel has lifted shipping costs, with companies like UPS and FedEx adding fuel surcharges in the past couple of months. That is likely to push up grocery prices, which jumped 0.7% in April and are 2.9% higher than a year ago. Stubbornly high inflation has shifted the debate among Fed policymakers, who had signaled at the start of the year that they were inclined to cut their key rate twice more this year. Now, more officials are saying they expect the Fed’s next move will likely be a hike rather than a cut. When the Fed boosts its key rate, it typically over time leads to higher borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans, and business loans.Wall Street investors expect the Fed to raise rates in December, according to futures prices tracked by CME Fedwatch. Despite higher inflation, the job market appears to be improving, with hiring increasing to a healthy level in May, and the economy is still growing. These positive signs suggest the Fed doesn’t need to cut rates to stimulate growth and hiring. They also signal that the Fed’s rate isn’t so high that it is weighing on the economy. Yet some officials want rates to cool growth a bit, because that can bring down inflation. Interest rates on two-year and 10-year Treasury securities have increased since Friday’s jobs report showed hiring accelerated in May, a sign investors expect inflation may remain elevated and eventually require Fed rate hikes. Higher inflation has put the new Fed Chair, Kevin Warsh, in a difficult spot. He advocated for rate cuts last year and was chosen by Trump to replace Jerome Powell, after Trump relentlessly criticized Powell for not reducing rates more quickly. Yet for now, Trump and White House officials are mainly arguing that interest rates don’t need to increase, rather than demanding further cuts. Some economists still see tariffs pushing up some costs, particularly clothing, which jumped 0.6% in April and are 4.2% more expensive than a year ago. Pricier fuel may have also led to higher airline fares last month, which would lift core inflation. CHRISTOPHER RUGABER Rugaber has covered the Federal Reserve and the U.S. economy for the AP for 16 years. He is a two-time finalist for the Gerald Loeb award for business reporting. twitter mailto

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama listens to a question during an interview with The Associated Press in Tirana, Albania, Tuesday, June 9, 2026. (AP Photo/Hameraldi Agolli)2026-06-09T16:18:04Z TIRANA, Albania (AP) — Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama is vowing to press ahead with a luxury development linked to U.S. President Donald Trump ’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, despite a surge in protests against it there.In an interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday, Rama dismissed environmental objections as the result of misinformation and said the development was turning Albania from a country once ignored by investors into one “where the big capital wants to come and the big investors want to come.”The government says the development would be transformational for the former communist nation as it seeks to enter the high-end tourism market and pushes for European Union membership.But thousands of demonstrators have joined daily protests outside Rama’s office in the capital, Tirana — including on Tuesday — against the planned project that includes hotels, apartments, villas and a marina for yachts. The prime minister said a formal environmental impact assessment has not started, even though work has begun to clear land inside a nature reserve.Asked if he might step back from the project, Rama refused, adding, “Step back from what?”Albania’s anti-corruption agency has opened an investigation related to the project. The government says the land is privately owned, but rival claims over its privatization have emerged. ‘Your country’s absolutely stunning’Rama said Kushner’s proposal began by chance. He recalled a dinner in southern Albania with Kushner, his wife, Ivanka Trump, and friends who had stopped in the port of Durres to refuel their boat on the way to Montenegro.Months later, Kushner approached him at a gathering of world leaders and business executives in Davos, Switzerland, and expressed interest in investing in Albania, Rama said.“Your country’s absolutely stunning, and we would like to look for a chance to invest,” Rama recalled Kushner telling him.An investment firm linked to Kushner has been granted special investor status by Albanian authorities.The luxury project has two components: a coastal development in the Narta Lagoon area, which is a wildlife reserve, and a smaller resort on the nearby uninhabited island of Sazan, a communist-era military base. Read More ‘This is still a planning process’Work has already begun to clear land inside a nature reserve used by migratory birds, prompting environmental groups to warn of the destruction of long-preserved habitats. Albania has 450 kilometers (280 miles) of coast that remained largely underdeveloped during decades of harsh communist rule.Rama said a formal environmental impact assessment has not started because the plan for the development has not been finalized. He said international architects and environmental specialists are still shaping the proposal.“When it comes to the environment, there is no project yet, there is no environmental impact assessment yet, because this is still a planning process,” he said. He argued that Albania has a strong conservation record, pointing to bans on hunting and logging that he said helped flamingo populations recover. 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. “We have fantastic documentation of how the wildlife in Albania came back thanks to the 10 years moratorium of hunting,” Rama said.Since late May, excavators and other heavy machinery have entered the planned development area, opening access routes, digging into the sand, clearing land among pine trees and installing fencing. Rama says criticism is full of ‘half-truths’The prime minister suggested that some of the backlash to the project was being amplified by outside interference, citing what he described as a long-running Iranian cyber campaign against Albania.Albania has long accused Iran of backing hackers who attack the country’s cyber infrastructure, after Albania sheltered members of an Iranian opposition group. Tehran has denied the allegations.“There is a lot of manipulation. There is a lot of half-truths that become bigger and bigger lies by the hour,” he said.He emphasized that he was not accusing individual protesters of acting as foreign agents. 获取更多RSS：https://feedx.net https://feedx.site

Arteta’s Arsenal Near Exciting Double Wonderkid DealArsenal Double Signing Plan Shows Berta’s Long GameTEAMtalk report that Arsenal are advancing towards a double move for Leicester City attacker Jeremy Monga and Paris Saint-Germain defender Emmanuel Mbemba, two teenage prospects who would speak loudly about where the club believe the next phase of their rebuild must go.This would not be the kind of transfer business that dominates a summer through noise alone. It would not immediately carry the gravity of a senior striker, a midfield controller or a statement defender. Yet it may say just as much about Arsenal’s ambition under Andrea Berta and Mikel Arteta.Youth Recruitment Becomes Arsenal PriorityArsenal have spent recent years trying to build a squad capable of challenging Manchester City and Liverpool at the summit of English football. That requires ready made quality, of course, but it also demands foresight. The best clubs do not simply buy stars. They identify them before the rest of the market agrees on their value.Monga, only 16, appears to fit that category. TEAMtalk state that the Leicester City attacker is viewed within the game as a “generational talent”, with several major Premier League clubs having explored a move.That Arsenal appear to have pushed hardest matters. It suggests a club no longer content to wait politely in the queue, especially when elite youth prospects become available.Monga Pathway Could Prove CrucialThe most interesting element of the report is not simply Arsenal’s interest, but the manner of their pursuit. TEAMtalk claim both Arteta and Berta have personally spoken to Monga, outlining his potential pathway into the first team and explaining how he could develop at the Emirates Stadium.For a player of 16, that conversation can be decisive. Money matters, prestige matters, but clarity matters too. Arsenal can point to Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis Skelly as evidence that young players are not merely collected, polished and forgotten.That pathway may now be one of the club’s strongest selling points.Mbemba Race Shows Wider StrategyMbemba, 18, offers a different type of opportunity. A left sided defender out of contract at PSG this summer, he would represent the sort of low cost, high ceiling move that smart clubs love.Photo: IMAGOTEAMtalk report that Chelsea’s BlueCo, City Football Group, Stuttgart, PSV Eindhoven and Paris FC have all looked at the defender. Yet Arsenal are said to be leading the race, with Mbemba currently favouring North London.That should excite supporters. Arsenal’s back line already has power, athleticism and intelligence. Adding another young defender with European pedigree would deepen that foundation.Future Planning Carries Real IntentThe pursuit of Monga and Mbemba would not solve every immediate Arsenal concern. Supporters will still want proven attacking firepower, greater squad depth and the kind of clinical edge that turns narrow title races into trophies.Yet this double move would still feel significant. It would show Berta’s influence beginning to take shape, Arteta’s project still carrying appeal and Arsenal thinking beyond the next window.The best clubs build in layers. Arsenal may be adding two more.Our View – EPL Index AnalysisFrom an Arsenal supporter’s perspective, this report feels like exactly the sort of recruitment the club should be pursuing, provided it does not come at the expense of senior additions.Monga sounds like the headline talent. When a 16 year old is already being described as a “generational talent”, caution is sensible, but so is excitement. Arsenal have been here before with elite academy level promise, and the difference now is that there appears to be a serious pathway. Saka did not become Saka by accident. Nwaneri has been handled carefully. Lewis Skelly has shown that Arteta will trust young players when the level is right.Mbemba is perhaps the more understated move, but possibly the smarter market play. A left sided defender leaving PSG on a free transfer, with several major groups circling, feels like the sort of opportunity Arsenal used to miss. If Berta can win that race early, it speaks well of his connections and Arsenal’s pitch.The only concern is balance. Arsenal fans have heard enough about projects. They want trophies now. So yes, sign the best teenagers. Build the next squad before rivals notice. But do not let future planning become cover for failing to fix the present.If Monga and Mbemba arrive alongside serious first team reinforcements, this could be a very clever summer.

Arjun Tendulkar is in action for ARCS Andheri in the Mumbai T20 League, which is underway at the Wankhede Stadium. The left-arm seamer played a key role in Andheri's comprehensive nine-wicket victory over Bandra Blasters on Monday. His three overs cost just 11 runs, including a maiden, and brought him three wickets as Bandra Blasters were held to 144 for 9.CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR BET WITH DAFABETPrasoon Singh added 2/12 in support, with Om Keshkamat (49) and Sagarr Chhabriaa (44) the only batters who put up any real resistance.In response, Andheri lost Divyaansh Saksena after a quick 26. Arjun came in at number three and joined Musheer Khan, and the two put together an unbroken 116-run stand that helped his side get over the line. Arjun hit 66 not out off 34 deliveries as Musheer chipped in with 54 not out off 38 balls. In the end, Andheri got home with 37 balls to spare and nine wickets in hand. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Star Sports India (@starsportsindia)After the match, skipper Shivam Dube gathered his players in the dressing room and made a point of calling Arjun out first. After that, he went on to credit Musheer Khan and Ajay Mishra, and described the pair as the team's "two backbones."When is Arjun Tendulkar playing next?Arjun Tendulkar will be back in action for ARCS Andheri on Wednesday, as his team takes on MSC Maratha Royals in their last group game of Mumbai T20 League.Here's the complete schedule for ARCS Andheri in Mumbai T20 League 2026:MatchOpponentOpponent ScoreAndheri ScoreResult4th MatchSMF (Mumbai Falcons)126 (18)127-5 (14)Won by 5 wickets9th MatchETS129 (20)130-1 (11.4)Won by 9 wickets13th MatchAakash Tigers MWS171-6 (20)164 (20)Lost by 7 runs16th MatchBB (Bandra Blasters)144-9 (20)148-1 (13)Won by 9 wickets20th MatchMSC Maratha RoyalsTBDTBDTBDWhere to watch ARCS Andheri matches: Live stream, TV channelHere is how to watch Match 20 of the T20 Mumbai League 2026 between MSC Maratha Royals and ARCS Andheri in India:TV channel: Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2Live stream: JioHotstarFull squad of Arcs Andheri for Mumbai T20 League 2026PlayerRoleShivam Dube (Icon)AllrounderPragnesh KanpillewarBowlerDeepak ShettyBowlerPrasad PawarAllrounderMusheer KhanBatterArjun TendulkarBowlerDivyaansh SaksenaBatterGaurav JatharBatterHrishikesh GoreAllrounderHimanshu SinghBatterKarthik Shaji KumarBatterAyush JethwaAllrounderKiaan ParekhBatterAshutosh GhagreBatterAjay MishraBowlerPrasoon SinghBowlerMoin AhmedAllrounderRishi ShahBowlerDafabetBEST ODDS AND OFFERSCLICK TO BET

[BBC]Celtic have made contact with Brondby over the availability of 23-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina midfielder Benjamin Tahirovic. (Spilxperten)Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Sunderland are stepping up their interest in Celtic midfielder Arne Engels, 22. (Scotsman - subscription required)Martin O'Neill has been spotted at Glasgow Airport, with the 74-year-old expected to continue as Celtic manager next season. (Sun)Swansea City are closing in on the signing of Celtic centre-back Stephen Welsh, who is out of contract after his loan spell with Motherwell, and the 26-year-old has agreed a two-year deal, with the Championship club having the option to extend by a further year. (Anthony Joseph on X)Dundee United have held talks over the possible signing of Videoton winger Bence Babos but face competition for the 22-year-old. (Courier - subscription required)Real Madrid eye Arsenal's Calafiori - Wednesday's gossipTottenham remain keen on Hearts' Wilson - gossipRangers have shown concrete interest in right-back Bryan Reynolds and Westerlo are open to a transfer because his contract expires next year, although they do hope to earn a windfall from the 24-year-old's potential sale. (Nieuwsblad)United States international Reynolds, who missed out on their World Cup squad, is one of several targets as Rangers look to replace James Tavernier at right-back. (Herald - subscription required)Hull City are weighing up a move for Dan Neil with Championship rivals Middlesbrough also interested in the 24-year-old midfielder, who has held discussions with Rangers as he exits Sunderland. (TeamTalk)Jack Butland is attracting interest from Premier League clubs as a back-up goalkeeper, but Rangers have no plans to sell the 33-year-old. (Football Insider)Leicester are in talks with former Southampton and Rangers head coach Russell Martin about taking over the club following their relegation to League One. (Leicester Mercury)

Lionel Messi converted a second-half penalty as Argentina wrapped up their World Cup preparation with a 3-0 win over Iceland in Auburn, Alabama.Messi did not make an appearance in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Honduras on Saturday as he managed his recovery from a hamstring injury, but made a quick impact after being called upon by manager Lionel Scaloni in the 70th minute against Iceland.He calmly converted from the spot in the 72nd minute to extend Argentina’s lead, following Valentin Barco’s early opener.Argentina wrapped up the result through Thiago Almada in the 86th minute, capitalising on a stellar counter-attack and assist from Rodrigo de Paul.The defending champions get their World Cup campaign under way against Algeria in Kansas City on Tuesday.

NEW DELHI: England's Test skipper Ben Stokes was reportedly drinking with England rugby captain Maro Itoje and other rugby internationals before becoming involved in a nightclub incident in London. According to a report from the English outlet Daily Mail, Stokes and fellow England cricketer Gus Atkinson spent Sunday evening at the White Horse pub in south-west London, celebrating England’s Test victory over New Zealand in the first match of the series. Later, they went to Rex Rooms, a Chelsea nightclub known as “Chelsea’s naughtiest nightclub".According to reports, a fight broke out in the club’s VIP area over tables. Saracens rugby player Totoa Auvua allegedly threw a punch aimed at Atkinson that instead struck an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) security guard. A larger altercation followed, although Stokes and Atkinson were not injured and are not believed to have started the dispute.Pub staff said Stokes arrived around 9 pm, appearing “tipsy” and ordered large rounds, including “plenty” of double rum and cokes costing up to £25 each. He was seen talking with rugby players, including Itoje, Ben Earl and Jamie George. Staff described Stokes’ conversation with George as “very friendly.”The incident has triggered an ECB investigation into a breach of team protocols. In a statement, the ECB said, “The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first men's Test against New Zealand.”It added, “Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.”Neither player is expected to be selected for England’s next Test while the investigation continues. Vice-captain Harry Brook is expected to lead the team.The controversy is particularly sensitive because Stokes helped introduce stricter team curfews following England’s troubled Ashes tour of Australia. Reports suggest he is now considering his international future, with one source describing the situation as “up in the air” and another saying, “I don’t know if even he knows yet what he wants to do.” 131627417Stokes previously faced suspension after a 2017 Bristol nightclub incident, though he was later cleared of affray charges after a court heard he had acted in defence of two men who were subjected to homophobic abuse.

Dortmund duo to leave for free in 2027?Marcel Sabitzer and Ramy Bensebaini could both leave Borussia Dortmund as free agents in the summer of 2027.According to Ruhr Nachrichten, Dortmund are not planning to extend the contracts of the duo, which are set to expire next summer.Meanwhile, neither Sabitzer nor Bensebaini are said to be considering a move this summer and are expected to remain important squad members, just as they were during the 2025/26 campaign.Bensebaini joined Dortmund on a free transfer from Borussia Mönchengladbach three years ago, while the club paid €20 million to sign Sabitzer from Bayern Munich in the same year.

09 June 2026, Bavaria, Freising: The Weihenstephan State Brewery logo can be seen on the wall of the logistics center. Photo: Karl-Josef Hildenbrand/dpa (Photo by Karl-Josef Hildenbrand/picture alliance via Getty Images) Drama🚨 Atlético Madrid statement following €150m bid from Real Madrid for Julián Álvarez.“1. You cut the video of the Pope where he said he was also an Atleti fan.2. You must have confused ethics with gratitude, but to leave no doubts: we don't thank you for anything.3. We are… pic.twitter.com/8Prd8QiL47— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 9, 2026😂😂😂😂😂 https://t.co/AI6mbMujPj— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) June 9, 2026Involved6 – Bruno Fernandes has been involved in six goals across his last four appearances for Portugal (4 goals, 2 assists), as many has he managed in his previous 19 appearances for the Seleção combined.Peaking. pic.twitter.com/pdFGFCIfym— OptaPlay (@OptaPlay) June 9, 2026Hmm4 – Since the beginning of 2024, Erling Haaland has scored four hat-tricks for Norway across all competitions, two more than any other player for a European nation.Ruthless. pic.twitter.com/PRiWIaHtc3— OptaPlay (@OptaPlay) June 9, 2026

☕️🥐 FC Breakfast: disaster narrowly avoided 😱, Vinicius on FortniteDisaster narrowly avoided 😱We came close to a tragedy this Tuesday evening during the friendly match between Hungary and Kazakhstan!One of the aerial cameras used for the TV broadcast fell onto the pitch. Fortunately, no one was hit or injured. The footage is terrifying.Vinicius on Fortnite 🎮On a lighter note: Vinicius is going to appear in the video game Fortnite.His "skin" was revealed this Tuesday!Pacho superstar 🤩A video that should please Paris fans.After the friendly match between Guatemala and Ecuador, several Guatemalan players rushed over to Pacho to take a photo with him!Double European champion hype, plain and simple.Yesterday's must-sees 🍿- Real Madrid made a €150M offer for Julian Alvarez! - Atlético's savage and bizarre response to Real Madrid- Tuesday's transfer roundupThis article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

Week 4 of our series on 2026 opponent retrospectives brings us to another renewed series from the old Michiana tour, bringing us its fourth installment since the cessation of annual hostilities. This one will be easier to recall as it was just a year ago, and it also might make us feel a little bad.Week 4: Purdue BoilermakersLast matchup: September 20, 2025 – Notre Dame 56, Purdue 30The real reason for my pity for the Boilers comes from pairing this game with the previous year’s installment in which the Irish won 66-7. Back when this was an annual rivalry, Purdue could often be relied on as a tough out even in down years; that has not applied in more recent matchups. In each of the last two seasons Purdue has had to take the field against an angry Notre Dame team coming off a gut-wrenching loss, and it has lost those games by a jaw-dropping 122-37 margin. At least last year, they put up a little bit of a fight.Each team came out swinging. The Irish went up 7-0 on their first play from scrimmage, a 66-yard pass from CJ Carr to Malachi Fields. The Boilers hit back with a lengthy drive punctuated by a trick-play touchdown pass from running back Devin Mockobee to quarterback Ryan Browne. Despite several massive Irish haymakers, including a 100-yard Jadarian Price kick return touchdown in which a tackler bounced off Price like a bullet off Superman, Purdue continued to hang around. At the end of the the first half the Irish up were up a disappointing 35-23 and the entire fanbase was cursing the name of Chris Ash.In the second half the Irish defense finally found a way to put the clamps on, and they stayed on for the rest of the season. A 1-2 punch of a ridiculous 46-yard Jeremiyah Love touchdown run and a 48-yard touchdown pass from Carr to Jordan Faison stretched the lead to an insurmountable length. A garbage-time touchdown by each team finalized the tally.While it was no one’s idea of a perfectly dominant win, this was an important one. It was the first win for a Notre Dame team that was clearly far better than its record indicated. The defense found its stride, an important development for a unit that had been leaking like a sieve through two and a half games. Game MVP honors are shared by Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price, who were completely unstoppable. Love rushed for 157 yards with two touchdowns; Price was insanely efficient as he gained 74 yards only 9 carries for three touchdowns, plus the aforementioned kick return.Will the Boilers put together a more competent unit in 2026 that is at least capable of putting a real scare into Notre Dame? For the sake of the old SOS, let’s hope so. Full highlights below:

ORCHARD PARK - The Buffalo Bills can only hope that running back James Cook’s absence from all of their offseason program before this week’s mandatory minicamp manifests itself as it did in 2025.Last year the circumstances were a little different as Cook stayed away from Orchard Park because he was unhappy with his contract and his agent was trying to hammer out an extension with general manager Brandon Beane.However, he dutifully showed up for minicamp to avoid being fined, famously saying “I like my money, that's why I'm here,” and he reported on time to training camp at St. John Fisher University and was ultimately rewarded with a new deal which got plenty of coverage from HBO’s Hard Knocks crew.Having banked $28.8 million in guaranteed money, Cook delivered the best of his four seasons in Buffalo as he won the NFL rushing title with 1,621 yards, caught 33 passes for 291 yards and scored 14 touchdowns, then added another 192 yards from scrimmage and a TD in two playoff games.While he avoided speaking to reporters Tuesday following the first minicamp session, the assumption to be drawn is that the Bills were fine with Cook staying at his offseason home in Florida and working out with his own team of trainers.“I always want our guys here, and I've been in touch with Jimbo the whole time,” head coach Joe Brady said. “You guys saw how James wasn't here last offseason and you guys remember how he was when he showed up last offseason. He works, and we're in touch with everything down there. I’m always going to want guys here, but it's voluntary. Jimbo has a great work ethic and a great approach, and it was really good to be around him (Monday when he arrived). I’m excited for him to get out there. I know he's excited to be with the guys again.”Here are a few other things Brady covered in his last session with reporters before training camp:Cook’s workload could be reduced in 2026Cook carried a career-high 309 times last year which surpassed his previous set in 2023 by 72, and his overall touches were at 342 which were 61 more than he had in 2023.What was strange is that in between in the 2024 season, he had only 239 total touches yet he tied for the league lead in rushing touchdowns with 16.“I don't think you ever go into each game with a mindset of like, ‘Hey, this is how many carries he's going to have’ but it does pile up throughout the season, right?” Brady said. “And it wasn't like he's not taking hits. I know it was asked a lot last season. I would love to be able to get Ray (Davis), Ty (Johnson), Frank (Gore Jr.) involved and I hope those opportunities come up this year.“James was just playing at such a high level last year. He was in such a rhythm and a routine that I felt confident in him being able to uphold that. And this year again we're looking at everything.”LB Dorian Williams is not practicingThere is a little bit of intrigue surrounding the fourth-year player who is in line to become a full-time starter for the first time since the Bills picked him in the third round of the 2023 draft.Williams suffered a neck injury on the opening kickoff of the playoff loss in Denver and that was still lingering when the offseason program began. However, he was not on the field Tuesday and he was spotted in the weight room using crutches to get around.Brady was a little cryptic when he was asked about Williams who had not been on the field for the few voluntary sessions where media were allowed to watch.“I’m not going to get into specifics of like when it happened, but yeah, I mean injuries are going to happen in season or offseason,” Brady said. “But Dorian's in a great head space and I know he's excited for training camp. I think everything is still early, but I mean right now, I feel like he's in a good place and I anticipate him being there when he gets there and I anticipate he'll be ready to rock.”Left guard battle will heat up laterBecause these practices are not conducted in pads, it’s really difficult to gauge what is happening in the trenches at positions where physicality is so important.That’s why the competition between Austin Corbett, Alec Anderson and whoever else the Bills may try at left guard as they seek the replacement for free agent departee David Edwards is sort of on pause until training camp.“I don't want to ever say that this time of year isn't important, and I know they might be quote-unquote ‘in pajamas’ right now in the O-line/D-line game,” Brady said. “Pads come on and different players play differently. But it's important to see the technique and the communication and them working at it. I’m understanding that there is a point in the offseason, they're only allowed to be so physical so it’s hard to make some of the judgments.“I like the competition that we had up there. We've had a lot of great conversations this past week. There's gonna be a lot of opportunities for these guys and it's up to them to go take it. I hope we show up to camp with an edge and guys wanting to go take these spots. Left guard is just a part of that.”Travis Clayton is getting a look on defenseThe Bills’ seventh-round pick in 2024 came through the International Pathway Program which is why he’s been able to stay on the roster the past two seasons without fear of being cut.The Bills picked him more than anything out of curiosity because for a big man - 6-foot-7, 305 pounds - the former English rugby player was such a smooth athlete, even if he’d never played football before. After trying to learn the intricacies of the offensive line, the Bills moved him over to the defensive side last week and that’s where he was Tuesday.“He might be the biggest freak of an athlete on our football team,” Brady said. “And it's a transition, playing offensive tackle and going backwards and man, the steps that he's made in these last couple of years. And then he also missed the whole (2025) season, right? Sometimes that's forgotten.“You see him move around, you see him do some things, and you see the type of skill sets that we're looking at from a defense perspective. It's not anything that he was doing wrong on the offensive side of the ball. He was progressing, but it was more of like, 'Man I'd love to see what this guy can do going forward.' And he was all about it. He's as explosive as it gets, as athletic as it gets; he's a large human. Excited to see him on the other side of the ball.”Sal Maiorana has covered the Buffalo Bills for more than four decades including 37 years as the full-time beat writer/columnist for the D&C. He has written numerous books about the history of the team, and he is also co-host of the BLEAV in Bills podcast/YouTube show. He can be reached at maiorana@gannett.com, and you can follow him on X @salmaiorana and on Bluesky @salmaiorana.bsky.social.This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Buffalo Bills updates on James Cook, Dorian Williams injury, OL battle

Photo by Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty ImagesNYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani has approved a ticketed New York Knicks watch party for Game 4, but the announcement came with a firm warning after violence against San Antonio Spurs fans.The city is trying to protect the energy around the Knicks’ first NBA Finals run in decades without allowing the celebration to turn into another unsafe scene.Game 3 created that problem after the Spurs’ 115-111 win at Madison Square Garden. Videos and reports of postgame chaos made it impossible for officials to treat the next public gathering like a normal watch party.Barry Williams/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty ImagesZohran Mamdani approves New York Knicks Game 4 watch party outside Madison Square GardenZohran Mamdani on X announced that the city had approved a ticketed watch party outside Madison Square Garden for Game 4.“We’re back outside the Garden. We have approved a ticketed MSG watch party for Game 4. More details soon.“As we prepare to watch together, let me be clear: this is a historic, joyful moment for our city,” Mamdani tweeted.He added, “We will not allow it to be disrupted by violence. Be safe, take care, and celebrate responsibly. Knicks in 5.”The key word is ticketed. After the issues around Game 3, the city is leaning toward a smaller and more controlled setup rather than another wide-open crowd that becomes harder to manage.Mamdani’s message also made clear that he still wants the city to celebrate. The Knicks remain up 2-1 in the NBA Finals, and Game 4 is another chance for New York to move closer to ending its long title wait.New York Knicks fans violence against San Antonio Spurs supporters forced Game 4 cautionThe decision came after troubling scenes followed the Knicks’ Game 3 loss, with Spurs fans reportedly targeted by some New York supporters in the streets and around watch-party areas.Reports described Spurs jerseys being ripped, visiting fans being harassed or attacked, and disorder near Bryant Park after thousands gathered for the game. Police also dealt with arrests and injured officers as the night turned chaotic.That is why the Game 4 plan matters. A ticketed watch party gives officials more control over entry, crowd size, and security, while still allowing Knicks fans to gather outside the Garden.Mamdani’s warning was not aimed at the entire fanbase, but at the people who turned a basketball loss into violence. New York can still have its Finals moment, but the city is making it clear that Spurs fans cannot become targets for wearing the wrong jersey.Read more:Zohran Mamdani reveals cost of his NBA Finals Game 3 ticket at MSG amid sky-high pricesKnicks’ fan watch party finds new home after MSG ban for Game 3 of the NBA FinalsNew York mayor Zohran Mamdani reveals if he’ll sit beside Donald Trump at Game 3 of NBA Finals

Harper (centre) has raced against Verstappen (left) and is now a team-mate to childhood idol Rossi (right) [Getty Images]From the moment he first drove a quad bike at five years of age, Dan Harper could never have imagined where he would end up in motorsport.It is a journey that has taken him to some of the most famous race tracks in the world as a BMW factory driver, where motorsport is his job and his life.In 2026 alone he has raced, and beaten, Max Verstappen, been team-mates to his racing idol Valentino Rossi, won one of the biggest endurance races in the world and is about to make his debut at another - the iconic Le Mans 24 Hours."It's what I wanted to do from a kid, so to make it happen and to see all the hard work paying off, it's all a dream," said the 25-year-old."I didn't really have much interest in school and my dad obviously seen a bit of talent there."It's very special now looking back at all those memories, seeing now where I am and hopefully what will come in the future."Harper wins on World Endurance Championship debutVerstappen 'just a normal person'While GT racing is Harper's profession, the endurance racing world got more attention than usual when Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, made waves in the class earlier this year.Verstappen's venture into endurance racing drew a lot of interest at the Nurburgring, one of the most fearsome circuits in motorsport.For Harper, who comes from Northern Ireland, he didn't believe the rumours of Verstappen's foray into GT Racing at first."I thought it wasn't going to happen," Harper said."The closer it came and then it was announced, I knew it was going to be really special."Before the Nurburgring 24 Hours, Verstappen had to compete in NLS races, shorter in length, to be granted a permit to drive in the main event.In NLS2, Verstappen and his team-mates Dani Jundicella and Jules Gounon dominated the race. On that occassion, Harper and Jordan Pepper were second and they got to share a podium together.But Verstappen's car was later disqualified for a technical infringement and Harper ans Pepper were handed the win. Then, a mechanical issue forced Verstappen's car out of winning contention at the Nurburgring 24 Hours, while Harper, and finished just off the poidum in fourth place. So, despite the pace and relentless drive, Harper has yet to officialy be beaten on track by the four-time world champion."I have to say it was one of the coolest podiums I've been on," Harper said on his NLS2 experience."Even just getting a chance to speak to him after the race in the Parc Ferme, we were talking about how he's finding GT racing and being involved in something completely different than what he's normally doing every day. "It's a bit like working with Valentino, they're so famous but they're just normal people and you could tell he was just so happy to be there and so motivated to do well, and that's what I thought was really cool."From hero to team-mateWhen he was growing up Harper was obsessed with watching motorsport. After watching MotoGP, his idol quickly became seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi – one of the most famous riders in motorcycle racing history.After Rossi retired from MotoGP in 2018, he turned his focus to cars and made his first steps in GT racing.Now, in the GT World Challenge, Harper is now a team-mate to the Italian in a BMW than runs the famous Rossi #46."For my mum, my dad, my granddad, we all watched Valentino on the TV."Our whole family was somewhat interested in him – especially me."My first race number was 46 and my dog was called Rossi, so to now race with him is very surreal."Harper said he is "still so motivated to do well" and the relationship with the Italian works both ways."The GT World Challenge is tough and you need to be at your best."It's a cool challenge for me and also Max- [Hesse, the third driver in the team] to coach him up in a way and in qualifying at Monza, he was as quick as us."It's just a special opportunity to be close to him, work together and maybe learn a few things from him too."'The festival of motorsport'Harper (driving the BMW, left) got his first taste of Le Mans in the opening practice session on Sunday [Getty Images]Now, for the first time, Harper heads to Le Mans - the king of endurance racing.Every year the quaint French town comes alive with a festival of motorsport, which accumulates in a 24 Hour race along a track that is blended with roads around Le mans and a purpose built race track.Harper got his first action around the Circuit de la Sarthe in Sunday's opening practice, and the main event takes place from 13-14 June.He has had a stellar year to date. He won the Daytona 24 Hours – the biggest endurance race in America- and won on his debut in the World Endurance Championship at Imola.But if he could win a trophy at Le Mans it might top the lot. In his words, "this is the big one that has been missing"."It's the biggest motorsport event in the world. When you think of motorsport, you think of Formula One or Le Mans 24-hour."To just have the opportunity to even drive on the streets in Le Mans, the opportunity to potentially win a 24-hour Le Mans not everyone gets that opportunity so you need to take it with both hands."Harper isn't afraid to admit he's had dreams about winning at Le Mans and standing on top of the iconic podium."To be honest, if we have a good race and perform to what our potential is then we have a really good shot.""I've had dreams about it and I've had dreams about many results going your way, but you never know what can happen. It could be the same in Le Mans. You go there, you do a full week or a full year really of preparation and when you get to the starting line you don't even know if the car is going to start."It's one of those things you just have to do your best, put all the work you can into that result. and then everything needs to fall into place."

Bayern defender told to look for new clubAfter two years at Bayern Munich, Hiroki Ito could be on the move this summer.According to Bild, Bayern are looking to offload the Japanese defender and have told his representatives to start looking for a new club.The Bavarians are understood to be willing to sell for around €20 million, with La Liga in Spain mentioned as an attractive destination for Ito.Bayern paid €23.5 million to sign the Japanese international from VfB Stuttgart in 2024.Since then, he has made a total of 31 appearances during an injury-plagued spell with the Bavarians.

England captain Harry Kane showed off his cricketing skills and sense of humour as the Three Lions continued preparations for the FIFA World Cup, with the star striker playfully offering his services to England Cricket and IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru.On Tuesday, England's footballers swapped the training pitch for a cricket field during a team bonding session ahead of the World Cup. Kane was among the players enjoying the game and later shared multiple photos of his exploits on social media.“Always ready if needed, @englandcricket & @RCBTweets!” Kane wrote on X, sparking reactions from both football and cricket fans.— HKane (@HKane) The post comes just days after Kane congratulated Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on their successful IPL title defence. The Bayern Munich forward, who shares a friendship with Kohli, had praised the Indian cricket icon following RCB's five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final.“What a player and what a knock @virat.kohli! Congrats @royalchallengers.bengaluru on making it back to back IPL titles,” Kane wrote on Instagram.RCB's latest triumph cemented their place among the IPL's elite franchises. After ending an 18-year wait for a maiden title in 2025, the Bengaluru-based side successfully defended their crown in 2026, becoming only the third team after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to win consecutive IPL titles.Meanwhile, Kane remains central to England's World Cup ambitions, although manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to carefully manage the striker's workload during the group stage due to concerns over extreme weather conditions across tournament venues in the United States, Mexico and Canada.The 32-year-old enjoyed another prolific season with Bayern Munich, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions. He has also maintained his remarkable form for England, netting five times in five matches since September 2025.England open their World Cup campaign against Croatia, with Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney also expected to play key roles as Tuchel looks to keep his captain fresh for the latter stages of the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring international soccer fans together to cheer on their countries in one of the biggest tournaments in the world. If you couldn’t get a ticket to any of the matches, there will be plenty of watch parties in and around metro Atlanta to talk soccer, enjoy food and grab a drink. Here’s a list of places you can watch matches during the Group State round. This list will be updated for the knockout rounds, quarterfinals, semifinals and World Cup Final. Have a watch party we’re missing? Email us at newstip@wsbtv.com. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]GROUP STAGE WATCH PARTIESFIFA Fan Festival- Centennial Olympic ParkThe FIFA Fan Festival will be the main hub for all soccer activity for the matches in Atlanta. There will be 18 days, 10 hours a day, of live music, games and VIP appearances at Centennial Olympic Park and Georgia World Congress Center.Fans can watch all the games on a 40-foot screen at the main stage.DecaturThe City of Decatur will have its own WatchFest 26 for a 34-day festival in its downtown square. There will be a green area and large screen to watch every World Cup match this summer. Decatur will also have live music and bands performing throughout the 34-day event. Big Boi will headline an opening concert on June 11 and Indigo Girls will headline the closing concert on July 19. Decatur also shared a list of over a dozen local restaurants that visitors and residents can take in the soccer scene. THE BATTERY ATLANTAThursday, June 113 p.m., Mexico vs. South Africa10 p.m., Korea Republic vs.. CzechiaFriday, June 123 p.m. Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina9 p.m. USA vs. ParaguaySunday, June 141 p.m., Germany vs. Curacao4 p.m., Netherlands vs. Japan7 p.m. Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador10 p.m., Sweden vs. TunisiaMonday, June 1512 p.m. Spain vs. Cabo Verde3 p.m., Belgium vs. EgyptTuesday, June 163 p.m. France vs. Senegal9 p.m., Argentina vs. AlgeriaWednesday, June 171 p.m., Portugal vs. Congo DR4 p.m., England vs. Croatia10 p.m. Uzbekistan vs. ColombiaThursday, June 1812 p.m., Czechia vs. South Africa3 p.m. Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina9 p.m., Mexico vs. South Korea Friday, June 193 p.m. USA vs AustraliaSaturday, June 201 p.m., Netherlands vs. Sweden8 p.m. Ecuador vs CuracaoSunday, June 216 p.m, Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde9 p.m., New Zealand vs EgyptMonday, June 221 p.m., Argentina vs Austria8 p.m., Norway vs SenegalTuesday, June 231 p.m., Portugal vs Uzbekistan8 p.m., Norway vs SenegalGWINNETT COUNTY WATCH PARTIESExplore Gwinnett will host a series of watch parties throughout the tournament. All the events are free and open to the public. Monday, June 1512 p.m. Spain vs Cabo Verde; event at Coolray Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; ballpark concessions will be available to purchase and kids zone freeSaturday, June 277:30 p.m. Congo DR vs Uzbekistan; event at Town Center on Main and DeLay Nature Park in Suwanee from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; food trucks and family activitiesTuesday, July 7TBD Round of 16; event at Peachtree Corners Town Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; live DJ, family-friendly activities and restaurants offering FIFA-theme food specialsWednesday, July 15TBD Semifinal Match; event at Lillian Webb Park from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.; activities for kids and food and drink optionsATLANTA UNITED PARTNER PUBSFriday, June 12Brewhouse Cafe (Little 5 Points)3 p.m. Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina9 p.m. USA vs. ParaguayMonday, June 15The Tavern @ Live! at the Battery 12 p.m. Spain vs.. Cabo VerdeTuesday, June 16El Tesoro (West End)3 p.m. France vs. Senegal9 p.m. Argentina vs.. AlgeriaWednesday, June 17SweetWater, 4 p.m. England vs. CroatiaThursday, June 18Brewhouse (South Downtown) 12 p.m. Czechia vs.. South AfricaFriday, June 19CHIRINGA 3 p.m. USA vs.. AustraliaTuesday, June 23Fado (Buckhead), 4 p.m. England vs.. GhanaWednesday, June 24Der Biergarten, 6 p.m., Scotland vs.. BrazilThursday, June 25All Atlanta United Partner Pubs, 10 p.m. USA vs. Turkey[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]ATL KICK IT IN THE DISTRICTATL Airport District will host a “Kick It in the District” watch party series throughout the World Cup. The events are free and open to the public with food and drink specials and giveaways. College Park:AC Hotel Atlanta Airport GatewayJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.The Tasting TableJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.June 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Brake PadJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.June 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.The Manchester Arms PubJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Nouveau Bar & GrillJune 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.Zubi’s Taco KitchenJune 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Aye Tea ElleJune 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.Fairburn:Oz Pizza FairburnJune 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.UnbelieveganJune 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Hapeville:Dave’s Sports Bar and GrillJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.June 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Hapeville Corner TavernJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Sombreros Mexican CantinaJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Brass Tap HapevilleJune 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.Chattabrewchee: The HangarJune 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.South Fulton:Grown & Sexy TavernJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.June 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.June 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.Sandtown PubJune 15 | Spain vs. Cabo Verde at 12 p.m.June 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.June 27 | Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan at 7:30 p.m.July 1 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 7 | Teams TBD at 12 p.m.July 15 | Teams TBD at 3 p.m.50 Yard Line Sports Bar & GrillJune 18 | Czechia vs. South Africa at 12 p.m.June 21 | Spain vs. Saudi Arabia at 12 p.m.Gocha’s Tapas BarJune 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.Union City:1804 Pizza Bar & LoungeJune 24 | Morocco vs. Haiti at 6 p.m.

(Photo by Stefan Matzke - sampics/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Bayern Munich faithful will not be hearing the end of Real Madrid attempting to poach Michael Olise until the end of the transfer window. However, the latest reports indicate that Los Blancos and their new-old President will be unwelcome no matter the mammoth compensation figures involved.Per Sky’s Florian Plettenberg (via @iMiaSanMia), Real Madrid continue to nurse their insatiable obsession with Michael Olise. A rumored €150m offer, and the Madridistas are already trembling with hype. The reaction in Munich is a completely different picture. The report indicates that while the figures and the bid for Olise are still uncertain, they do not matter to the Bayern bosses. No monetary number or number of bids can convince the club to sell their prized asset.Is there a “right price” for Olise ?The Bayern bosses have made clear on multiple occasions that Olise is here to stay. But, realistically speaking, Real Madrid is capable of pulling blinding figures should they choose to. Florentino Perez has been re-elected on the back of a campaign promising massive signings. Suppose he is hell bent on seeing the Frenchman in white, it would not be beyond him to cough up €200m, €250m or even more. What turn would this saga take then ? Regardless of the climax of this saga, the club management will have a huge test in setting an example regarding Bayern’s image as a destination club.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

F2 star Leonardo Fornaroli will be making his debut in F1 on Friday, taking over Lando Norris’ spot to get experience on the grid. Fornaroli won the F2 championship in 2025 after winning the F3 title the year before, making him one of the biggest gems in the sport. McLaren jumped at the chance to sign him to their academy, adding youth to the racing team and a future option. This will be his first official session in F1, with him having run multiple tests in cars over the years. He hopes to give Lando Norris as much feedback as possible. May 23, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CANADA; McLaren driver Lando Norris (1) during Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada sprint race at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images“I’m very excited to drive the MCL40 this weekend in the Barcelona-Catalunya FP1 session,” Fornaroli said. “It’s going to be a great opportunity to help the team with their preparations and to work through the planned Friday programme. This is going to be a very important mission for me because it’s going to be my first official Formula 1 session. It’s something I’ve worked through for a long time, so very excited for it.“All the experience I’ve gained through the previous TPC days so far were very important for my development, so a big thank you to Zak, Andrea, and Alessandro, and to all the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team. Can’t wait for this weekend!”What are Fornaroli’s chances of breaking into F1?Getting a drive in F1 is based on multiple factors beyond just merit. A driver needs a spot to open up at the right time and then to get enough financial backing to make it worthwhile. At McLaren, Lando Norris looks to be settled with the team, along with Oscar Piastri, who is also secured on a long-term contract. McLaren driver Lando Norris (1) during the Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn ImagesHowever, things in this sport change quite quickly. Piastri has been rumored as a possible Max Verstappen replacement at Red Bull if the Dutchman leaves. Additionally, Norris has long been regarded as a star in the sport, with interest certain to come his way if he ever agitates for a move. A move from either party looks unlikely, but a team can never be too comfortable, making the development of Fornaroli an important one to watch, as other lower-level teams could take a chance on his talent with an impressive session.

Sale had won the most Prem games (38) in the three seasons before this one [Getty Images]For the previous three seasons, Sale Sharks have flown the flag as the northern powerhouse of English club rugby.But this current campaign has left Sale battered and bruised and those foundations severely tested."It was the longest, hardest, most challenging season I've ever had," director of rugby Alex Sanderson admitted.They eventually ended it in seventh after winning only five of their 18 Prem matches, leaving them a whopping 27 points adrift of the play-off spots.With no consecutive league wins all season and just one victory on the road, the 2025-26 version of the Sharks was unlike what had been on show before.Yet is it the start of a decline or just a blip in the road for Sale? The north-west club won their only title in 2006, with stars such as Jason Robinson and Sebastian Chabal. Since replacing Steve Diamond as director of rugby in early 2021, Sanderson, a former Sale player, has been attempting to recreate that success.They reached the final again in 2023 only to lose to Saracens at Twickenham, and were beaten semi-finalists in the play-offs in both 2024 and 2025.No other team matched that consistency as Sale were the only ones to finish in the top four in each of those campaigns, with their 38 wins the most of any team during the regular season.They could not quite make the biggest leap of all, but they were firmly ensconced in the upper echelons. Summer Sale: John and Andrews join 20-player exodus'I know I have the minerals for Sale job' - Sanderson'We are not in freefall', says Sale boss SandersonInjuries play part as wheels come offWith two wins from their opening three games in the 2025-26 season, it looked likely to be more of the same from Sale, but from then on, the wheels came off.It started with a 65-14 drubbing away to Saracens in October as teenage wing Noah Caluori ran in five tries on his first Prem start.But it was a surprise 27-26 home loss to Exeter Chiefs in November that hinted at trouble ahead as the hosts gave up a 20-point lead early in the second half to succumb to their first home defeat of the season.The CorpAcq Stadium has been a source of strength for Sale, but this season they lost more games there than they won. A home defeat by Northampton Saints in January effectively ended their top-four hopes with eight games still to play.In 2026, they suffered the heaviest losses in the club's history - a 77-7 smashing away to star-studded French giants Toulouse in the Champions Cup in January, and an 85-19 humiliation at home by Saracens in April as Caluori helped himself to five more tries.Success at Harlequins six days after that debacle was Sale's only away victory in The Prem and gave them some breathing space in guaranteeing a top-eight spot and a Champions Cup place for next season.But giving up leads to lose at both Gloucester and Newcastle Red Bulls - two of the three sides to finish below them - in the final weeks of the campaign showed Sale had lost the hard winning edge of previous campaigns. Sale shipped 10 tries to Saracens winger Noah Caluori alone in two Prem games this season [Getty Images]As befits a campaign that has gone badly astray, injuries have played a key part.Sale's England core have nearly all spent significant stretches on the treatment table and been unavailable for selection. Back-row twins Tom and Ben Curry, winger Tom Roebuck, Asher Opoku-Fjordjour, and in recent weeks, fellow front-rowers Bevan Rodd and Luke Cowan-Dickie, have all missed large chunks of action.The coaching front has also been affected. Marco Bortolami left his job as head coach in December after just six months at the club, while defence coach Byron McGuigan started a job share with England in October before leaving Sale in March.Sanderson said he had been tested in a way he had not experienced before, but with the support of owner Simon Orange, he had real conviction that things would turn around."In the tough times, the adversity, you get to see who stands up in terms of leaders," Sanderson said."Young lads have to step up, which they did, and you realise who's in your corner and for what reasons."For all of those things, I'm really grateful, for learning the lessons the hard way and I'm very positive about the future."Sale have strengthened their squad for next season by signing England internationals Courtney Lawes, Joe Marchant and Alex Lozowski, along with Wales front-row pair Nicky Smith and Tomas Francis, to add experience and ease the pressure on the club's promising homegrown players. Alex Sanderson has been in charge of Sale for five and a half years [Getty Images]'Bright future'While it looks bad at the moment, Sale can take solace in the fact that all of this season's Prem top four have had bleak years in the recent past.Just 12 months ago, Northampton Saints and Exeter Chiefs were eighth and ninth respectively. Leicester Tigers were down in eighth two years ago, while Bath propped up the entire division in 2022.And it is how those clubs have bounced back, as well as coping with what has happened this season, that provides Sanderson with belief for an on-field upturn."To some degree, you have to hit rock bottom to learn," he told BBC Sport."It has to really hurt and really matter for all the changes you have to make when you're at that end of the table. It puts you in good stead moving forward."So I do think this season will be defining for us, not for the losses, but for how bright the future is going to be."

Ben Davies reached a century of caps for Wales in March [Getty Images]Experienced Tottenham Hotspur defender Ben Davies has signed a new one-year contract until the end of next season.Davies' current deal was due to expire at the end of the month and he was set to leave the club.The 33-year-old Wales international, who joined Spurs from Swansea in July 2014, will take his stay at the north London club into a 13th year.Davies has been a key player for the club over the years and Tottenham's hierarchy view his experience and leadership qualities as key during Roberto de Zerbi's first full season in charge.He had surgery on a broken ankle in January and was restricted to just three Premier League appearances last season as Spurs narrowly avoided relegation to the Championship.Davies has played 363 games for Tottenham in all competitions, scoring 10 goals.Latest Tottenham news, analysis and fan viewsAsk about Tottenham - what do you want to know?

Saka injured but will start World Cup anywayThe England manager is still planning to start Saka against Croatia, despite accepting he is not fit enough to play a full 90 minutes.Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty ImagesBukayo Saka is still struggling with the Achilles problem that disrupted the end of his Arsenal season, but Thomas Tuchel is still planning to start him in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia.The Arsenal winger has been dealing with the issue for months and is not considered fit enough to play a full 90 minutes.England’s final warm-up match against Costa Rica takes place on Wednesday, with their World Cup campaign due to begin against Croatia on June 17.Tuchel told reporters at his pre-match press conference, “We still have to take a little bit of care for Bukayo [Saka] who had an injury in March and carried it through to club. He made himself available at the end of the season and did so brilliantly but he was managed in between matches; that continues a bit at the moment. We are building him up.“Noni [Madueke], Declan [Rice] and Ebs [Eze] are 100 percent available.“We just came from training and everyone was involved including Bukayo. We have to take the decision in the afternoon on who starts and how many minutes we give.“They [the Arsenal players] came in very good spirit and shape. I feel them as proud and confident. They know what they did. They had a little period where it was in doubt and they overcame it. It meant a lot to them. They understand they went toe-to-toe with the best team in the world against Paris Sant Germain and lost in the shootout.“They came in the best spirits and they are happy with that.”Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty ImagesIt leaves Arsenal with an obvious concern before the tournament has even started. Saka’s Achilles problem ruled him out for a month and seven games during the domestic season, before he returned towards the end of April.The issue did not prevent him finishing the campaign, but the fact that it remains a concern heading into the World Cup underlines how carefully his minutes will need to be managed.For England, Saka remains too important to leave out if he is available. For Arsenal, the priority will be that he comes through the tournament without the problem worsening, particularly after a season in which another key player, Jurrien Timber, has already seen his summer ended by injury.Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty ImagesTimber was forced to withdraw from the World Cup after failing to recover from the groin injury he suffered against Everton in March.Saka is not in the same position, with Tuchel still intending to use him from the start against Croatia. But the confirmation that he is carrying a long-running Achilles issue will do little to ease Arsenal concerns before a tournament that will place another heavy load on one of their most important players.Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images For Premier League

The wait for the 2026 World Cup is nearly over and the tournament is set to be launched in spectacular fashion thanks to the unprecedented nature of its setup.This year’s finals are the first to be hosted by multiple countries, with the United States, Canada and Mexico all staging the competition, boasting the elusive element of home advantage for football’s greatest showpiece.Three host nations means three separate opening ceremonies for each of their opening games, as is traditionally done, with the trio roping in A-list artists and other performers to set the tone for the biggest event on the football calendar.These three elaborate productions are being orchestrated by Italian producer Marco Balich, renowned for his work on this year’s Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony.Here’s everything you need to know about who is performing at the World Cup 2026 opening ceremonies.Mexico opening ceremonyMexico will get World Cup proceedings underway with their opening ceremony at 6:30pm BST on Thursday 11 June in Mexico City.Held at Mexico City Stadium, better known worldwide as the Estadio Azteca, the ceremony will take place ahead of the Group A clash between Mexico and South Africa, a repeat of the clash that rose the curtain on the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg.Shakira and Burna Boy will perform at the first opening ceremony (AP)Shakira and Burna Boy are poised to headline the spectacle, performing the official tournament song, Dai Dai. Additional performers include Alejandro Fernández, Belinda, Danny Ocean, J Balvin, Lila Downs, Los Ángeles Azules, Maná, and Tyla.Canada opening ceremonyCanada will then take the spotlight for their opening ceremony in Toronto, kicking off at 6:30pm BST on Friday 12 June at BMO Field ahead of the host nation’s clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina.Leading the line-up is none other than Canadian icon Michael Buble, with the likes of Alessia Cara and Alanis Morissette among the other featured performers.Michael Buble will perform at the opening ceremony in Canada (Reuters)Palestinian singer Elyanna will also perform while French artist Vegedream, who is best known for his the timeless anthem “Ramenez la coupe a la maison” which celebrated France’s World Cup win in 2018.Jessie Reyez, Nora Fatehi, Sanjoy and William Prince are also on the bill.USA opening ceremonyThen to Los Angeles, where the United States will put on the third and final World Cup opening ceremony. Getting started at 12:30am BST on Saturday 13 June before the US’ clash with Paraguay, the spectacle will be staged at the SoFi Stadium - the newest stadium being used at this summer’s tournament.International pop star Katy Perry will headline in her home state, joined by rapper Future.Katy Perry headlines the third and final opening ceremony in the United States (AFP/Getty)Tyla will also appear at her second ceremony having performed across the border in Mexico, along with Thai-born star Lisa from K-pop band Blackpink, Nigerian artist Rema and Brazilian singer Anitta.The US has a history of memorable moments when it comes to World Cup opening ceremonies, including Diana Ross's famous missed penalty ahead of the 1994 World Cup in Chicago.