21 mins. ago
So far, Manchester United have signed a back-up goalkeeper, two midfielders and a young forward this summer, but former Red Devils defender Danny Simpson says they need fresh blood in another position.
"Lisandro Martinez is injured, Matthijs de Ligt gets injured a lot and Harry Maguire is 33 now, so I think we could do with a centre-back," Simpson told BBC Radio Manchester.
United currently have a wealth of experience in the centre-back department with Martinez, De Ligt and Maguire, but injuries halted their playing time together last season.
It is not yet known if Martinez will be ruled out of the start of the domestic campaign with the injury he picked up during Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.
De Ligt last featured for United in November 2025 under Ruben Amorim.
#martinez #centre #last
"Lisandro Martinez is injured, Matthijs de Ligt gets injured a lot and Harry Maguire is 33 now, so I think we could do with a centre-back," Simpson told BBC Radio Manchester.
United currently have a wealth of experience in the centre-back department with Martinez, De Ligt and Maguire, but injuries halted their playing time together last season.
It is not yet known if Martinez will be ruled out of the start of the domestic campaign with the injury he picked up during Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.
De Ligt last featured for United in November 2025 under Ruben Amorim.
#martinez #centre #last
1 hr. ago
Detroit Tigers fans who paid good money to be at Comerica Park on Monday night has reason to be upset. Their hometown team allowed the visiting Baltimore Orioles to score a bunch of early runs, which eventually sealed a third consecutive defeat for A.J. Hinch's team. Time is slipping away for the Tigers to make a run at the American League Central crown or, failing that, an American League wild card spot. And oh yeah, the latest stumbles might be just enough to convince the front office to send Tarik Skubal out of town at the trade deadline.
But all those frowns turned upside-down thanks to one uninvited guest who caused all types of chaos on the playing surface.
As hope began dwindling for the Tigers in the seventh inning, a squirrel made its way onto the diamond. It did not possess any type of healthy fear and therefore got really close to players and explored **** es that could have put it right in the center of the action. Orioles third base coach Buck Britton certainly did not help when he decided to feed the uninvited guest.
Eventually, everyone had enough of the squirrel and the decision was made to remove it from the premises.
That task proved easier on paper than in practice.
#american
But all those frowns turned upside-down thanks to one uninvited guest who caused all types of chaos on the playing surface.
As hope began dwindling for the Tigers in the seventh inning, a squirrel made its way onto the diamond. It did not possess any type of healthy fear and therefore got really close to players and explored **** es that could have put it right in the center of the action. Orioles third base coach Buck Britton certainly did not help when he decided to feed the uninvited guest.
Eventually, everyone had enough of the squirrel and the decision was made to remove it from the premises.
That task proved easier on paper than in practice.
#american
3 hours ago
Zinedine Zidane has been confirmed as head coach of the France national team, taking over from Didier Deschamps following their World Cup semi-final exit, and admitted he was emotional at his unveiling
Deschamps announced in January 2025 that he would step down following this summer's World Cup, with France knocked out in the last four by European champions Spain in a 2-0 defeat.
Zidane had been out of a managerial post since leaving Real Madrid, where he won three Champions League and two La Liga ***** les, in 2021.
Zinedine Zidane won three consecutive Champions League crowns with Real Madrid (Getty)
But the former France captain had been widely touted as a potential replacement for Deschamps, who helmed the national side for 14 years, and has been installed on a long-term deal.
#champions #zinedine #madrid
Deschamps announced in January 2025 that he would step down following this summer's World Cup, with France knocked out in the last four by European champions Spain in a 2-0 defeat.
Zidane had been out of a managerial post since leaving Real Madrid, where he won three Champions League and two La Liga ***** les, in 2021.
Zinedine Zidane won three consecutive Champions League crowns with Real Madrid (Getty)
But the former France captain had been widely touted as a potential replacement for Deschamps, who helmed the national side for 14 years, and has been installed on a long-term deal.
#champions #zinedine #madrid
4 hours ago
Zinédine Zidane is the new manager of the French national team after signing a contract until 2030.
France finished fourth at the 2026 World Cup under Didier Deschamps, losing 6-4 in a remarkable third-place play-off to England after having been defeated at the semi-final stage by eventual winners Spain.
"I've often said it: there's nothing greater than the French National Team," the former player said on his appointment.
"It is therefore a joy and, of course, a great source of pride to become the manager of this French National Team. It's also a responsibility. I want to thank [FFF] President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the fourteen years of service from Didier and his staff. I also have a special thought today for all my coaches.
"Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French National Team."
#national #team #didier #england
France finished fourth at the 2026 World Cup under Didier Deschamps, losing 6-4 in a remarkable third-place play-off to England after having been defeated at the semi-final stage by eventual winners Spain.
"I've often said it: there's nothing greater than the French National Team," the former player said on his appointment.
"It is therefore a joy and, of course, a great source of pride to become the manager of this French National Team. It's also a responsibility. I want to thank [FFF] President Philippe Diallo, the Executive Committee, and the French Football Federation for their confidence and acknowledge the fourteen years of service from Didier and his staff. I also have a special thought today for all my coaches.
"Needless to say, I have high ambitions for the French National Team."
#national #team #didier #england
4 hours ago
The Para-mixed bowls B2-B3 pair succeeded in their early morning bid for a Commonwealth Games bronze medal with a dramatic tie-break win against New Zealand.
The duo of Julie Thomas and Steffan James, aided by directors Jamie Jones and John Wilson, defeated New Zealand's pair of Sonya Woodrow and Kerrin Wheeler, aided by directors Kimberly Carraher and Colin Wheeler.
Wales lost the first set 7-4 but battled back to win the second set 6-3 to set up the sudden death end.
After Thomas had set up the chance and James held his nerve with two brilliant final bowls. New Zealand's final delivery failed and Wales celebrated.
The Wales campaign came full circle after it had started with a dramatic tie-break comeback win against Australia.
#wales #dramatic
The duo of Julie Thomas and Steffan James, aided by directors Jamie Jones and John Wilson, defeated New Zealand's pair of Sonya Woodrow and Kerrin Wheeler, aided by directors Kimberly Carraher and Colin Wheeler.
Wales lost the first set 7-4 but battled back to win the second set 6-3 to set up the sudden death end.
After Thomas had set up the chance and James held his nerve with two brilliant final bowls. New Zealand's final delivery failed and Wales celebrated.
The Wales campaign came full circle after it had started with a dramatic tie-break comeback win against Australia.
#wales #dramatic
5 hours ago
The 2026 FIFA World Cup produced memorable individual performances alongside dramatic knockout matches. While Spain lifted the trophy after defeating Argentina in the final, the tournament also highlighted established superstars and introduced a new generation capable of shaping international football for years to come. Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Rodri, Lautaro Martínez, and Mikel Oyarzabal each left a distinct mark on the competition through goals, creativity, leadership, or tactical influence.
Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi remained the heartbeat of Argentina's campaign. Although he did not finish the tournament as champion, he demonstrated once again why he remains one of football's defining players.
Messi contributed both goals and **** ists throughout the knockout rounds, combining composure with outstanding decision-making under pressure. Rather than constantly looking to finish attacks himself, he increasingly orchestrated Argentina's play, creating opportunities for teammates and controlling the tempo during crucial moments.
His performances against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England illustrated how experience can become just as valuable as physical explosiveness. Even without lifting the trophy, Messi's tournament reinforced his remarkable World Cup legacy.
If one player elevated his global reputation more than anyone else, it was Lamine Yamal.
#tournament #lionel #even #knockout
Even at 39 years old, Lionel Messi remained the heartbeat of Argentina's campaign. Although he did not finish the tournament as champion, he demonstrated once again why he remains one of football's defining players.
Messi contributed both goals and **** ists throughout the knockout rounds, combining composure with outstanding decision-making under pressure. Rather than constantly looking to finish attacks himself, he increasingly orchestrated Argentina's play, creating opportunities for teammates and controlling the tempo during crucial moments.
His performances against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England illustrated how experience can become just as valuable as physical explosiveness. Even without lifting the trophy, Messi's tournament reinforced his remarkable World Cup legacy.
If one player elevated his global reputation more than anyone else, it was Lamine Yamal.
#tournament #lionel #even #knockout
6 hours ago
The debate surrounding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's ODI future refuses to die down despite both continuing to deliver for India. While neither head coach Gautam Gambhir nor chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar has publicly committed to their participation in the 2027 World Cup, keeping the speculation around their future alive.
India's recent 1-2 ODI series defeat against England only added fuel to the conversation. Rohit silenced critics with a match-winning century in the series finale, registering his 34th ODI hundred amid speculation that the Lord's fixture could be his final international appearance. Kohli, meanwhile, chipped in with two half-centuries during the series after both senior batters struggled in the opening match.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta believes there is no need to question Rohit and Kohli's places in the side, but stressed that both must make an immediate impact whenever a series begins instead of taking time to settle.
"That has to be a conversation with everyone, not just them (Kohli and Rohit), that they have to start the series well and hit the ground running. That is a challenge. You can't take one or two games to get into the groove. But that's where the support staff comes in and has conversations with the players by creating an environment to get the best out of everyone," Deep Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.
Dasgupta insisted that the standards applied to the two stalwarts should remain unchanged despite the increasing scrutiny around their careers.
"There is no conversation needed with them about their places in the team. Four years back, it wasn't like they had to be reminded before every series that they would be in the team. They knew they would be in the team based on their performances. So how does that change now? It does not and should not change," he added.
Questions over the future of Rohit and Kohli have surfaced repeatedly since both retired from Test cricket last year, leaving ODIs as their only international format. Before the Lord's ODI against England, reports suggested that the selection committee was considering moving on from Rohit ahead of the 2027 World Cup to create an opening for Yashasvi Jaiswal.
However, the BCCI leadership dismissed reports that the Lord's encounter would be Rohit's final international appearance.
Dasgupta believes the constant speculation is largely because the pair now feature in only one international format, making every ODI performance subject to greater scrutiny.
132677492
"This discussion about their future is getting exaggerated because they play only one format. When you play multiple formats, if you fail in one but score in the other, the failure is forgotten. So that's a challenge for these two that can't be denied. People will remember what they last did in this format because they play only one format. But the conversation with them should be the same as it was three years ago," he added.
#dasgupta #intern
India's recent 1-2 ODI series defeat against England only added fuel to the conversation. Rohit silenced critics with a match-winning century in the series finale, registering his 34th ODI hundred amid speculation that the Lord's fixture could be his final international appearance. Kohli, meanwhile, chipped in with two half-centuries during the series after both senior batters struggled in the opening match.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta believes there is no need to question Rohit and Kohli's places in the side, but stressed that both must make an immediate impact whenever a series begins instead of taking time to settle.
"That has to be a conversation with everyone, not just them (Kohli and Rohit), that they have to start the series well and hit the ground running. That is a challenge. You can't take one or two games to get into the groove. But that's where the support staff comes in and has conversations with the players by creating an environment to get the best out of everyone," Deep Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.
Dasgupta insisted that the standards applied to the two stalwarts should remain unchanged despite the increasing scrutiny around their careers.
"There is no conversation needed with them about their places in the team. Four years back, it wasn't like they had to be reminded before every series that they would be in the team. They knew they would be in the team based on their performances. So how does that change now? It does not and should not change," he added.
Questions over the future of Rohit and Kohli have surfaced repeatedly since both retired from Test cricket last year, leaving ODIs as their only international format. Before the Lord's ODI against England, reports suggested that the selection committee was considering moving on from Rohit ahead of the 2027 World Cup to create an opening for Yashasvi Jaiswal.
However, the BCCI leadership dismissed reports that the Lord's encounter would be Rohit's final international appearance.
Dasgupta believes the constant speculation is largely because the pair now feature in only one international format, making every ODI performance subject to greater scrutiny.
132677492
"This discussion about their future is getting exaggerated because they play only one format. When you play multiple formats, if you fail in one but score in the other, the failure is forgotten. So that's a challenge for these two that can't be denied. People will remember what they last did in this format because they play only one format. But the conversation with them should be the same as it was three years ago," he added.
#dasgupta #intern
6 hours ago
After a dominant run through the East Zone Tournament, the Hagerstown PONY-13 All-Stars will fly to California to play in the PONY-13 World Series in Carlsbad starting Friday, July 31.
"I don't think it will set in completely until they get out to California and see the Dominican Republic, ****** an, France, Mexico," said manager Jeff Mills. "When they start seeing these guys they get to play against, it's going to kind of hit them. But I don't think these boys will get nervous."
Hagerstown outscored its opponents by a combined 39-8 in the East Zone. Hagerstown broke a 4-4 tie with a pair of runs in the sixth inning of a 7-4 win over Athletix in the opener, then blew open its other two games with 10-run innings while defeating the Ohio Prospects 16-1 and Athletix 16-3 in the ****** le game.
"They played great the whole weekend," Mills said. "They're very mature for their age. They never got down at any point in the tournament, just stayed strong. The pitchers threw great. ****** ody had a really rough outing. Defensively, there were only two or three errors. They're solid the whole way around.
"When they put up 10 runs on Ohio, that was a big confidence boost because at that point they knew they'd have to get beat twice in the championship round. Then they put up 10 again."
#zone
"I don't think it will set in completely until they get out to California and see the Dominican Republic, ****** an, France, Mexico," said manager Jeff Mills. "When they start seeing these guys they get to play against, it's going to kind of hit them. But I don't think these boys will get nervous."
Hagerstown outscored its opponents by a combined 39-8 in the East Zone. Hagerstown broke a 4-4 tie with a pair of runs in the sixth inning of a 7-4 win over Athletix in the opener, then blew open its other two games with 10-run innings while defeating the Ohio Prospects 16-1 and Athletix 16-3 in the ****** le game.
"They played great the whole weekend," Mills said. "They're very mature for their age. They never got down at any point in the tournament, just stayed strong. The pitchers threw great. ****** ody had a really rough outing. Defensively, there were only two or three errors. They're solid the whole way around.
"When they put up 10 runs on Ohio, that was a big confidence boost because at that point they knew they'd have to get beat twice in the championship round. Then they put up 10 again."
#zone
8 hours ago
Chicago White Sox second baseman Chase Meidroth laced a liner to the left field wall.
Down a run with two outs in the seventh inning, Colson Montgomery attempted to score from first base. New York Yankees left fielder Max Schuemann made a one-hop throw to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who threw out Montgomery at the plate.
"There were two outs, we all know (Justin Jirschele), I think he's one of the best third-base coaches — he gets really good reads," Montgomery said. "I feel like I got a pretty good jump off it. Lefty (Brent Headrick) on the mound, I felt I couldn't really get too far off first base. I thought I got a pretty good jump and I thought I was going to score. They're good players, too, and made decent relays."
The Yankees added some breathing room with four runs in the eighth, featuring a three-run home run by Ali Sánchez, and defeated the Sox 9-5 in front of 22,357 at Rate Field on Monday.
The Sox saw an early three-run lead evaporate on the way to dropping the opener of the four-game series.
#good #made
Down a run with two outs in the seventh inning, Colson Montgomery attempted to score from first base. New York Yankees left fielder Max Schuemann made a one-hop throw to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who threw out Montgomery at the plate.
"There were two outs, we all know (Justin Jirschele), I think he's one of the best third-base coaches — he gets really good reads," Montgomery said. "I feel like I got a pretty good jump off it. Lefty (Brent Headrick) on the mound, I felt I couldn't really get too far off first base. I thought I got a pretty good jump and I thought I was going to score. They're good players, too, and made decent relays."
The Yankees added some breathing room with four runs in the eighth, featuring a three-run home run by Ali Sánchez, and defeated the Sox 9-5 in front of 22,357 at Rate Field on Monday.
The Sox saw an early three-run lead evaporate on the way to dropping the opener of the four-game series.
#good #made
9 hours ago
On the back of promising performances in pre-season friendlies against York City and Liverpool, Régis Le Bris is going to have a midfield selection dilemma ahead of the new season.
Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki all showed their class at the World Cup, with Sadiki and Diarra standing out — Diarra bagging a couple of goals for Senegal and Sadiki shining in DR Congo's defeat to England in the round of sixteen.
Whilst these lads are currently on holiday and enjoying a well-deserved break after successful World Cup campaigns, there's an opportunity afoot for other lads to work their way into Le Bris' thinking going into the opening game against Ipswich Town.
Chris Rigg and Enzo Le Fée have been deployed in central positions during our two pre-season fixtures and have been standout performers. Rigg has clearly been on a fitness programme over the summer and has come back a couple of pounds stronger, whereas Le Fée has picked up where he left off at the back end of last season, scoring a fantastic solo strike against Liverpool on Saturday night.
The few games that we played last season without Xhaka in the starting eleven showed just how much we struggle without him, and although he's a certainty to be the first name on the team sheet most weeks, he's coming into the twilight of his career and will not be able to play up to potentially fifty games if we have a successful season.
#season #World #rigg #going
Granit Xhaka, Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki all showed their class at the World Cup, with Sadiki and Diarra standing out — Diarra bagging a couple of goals for Senegal and Sadiki shining in DR Congo's defeat to England in the round of sixteen.
Whilst these lads are currently on holiday and enjoying a well-deserved break after successful World Cup campaigns, there's an opportunity afoot for other lads to work their way into Le Bris' thinking going into the opening game against Ipswich Town.
Chris Rigg and Enzo Le Fée have been deployed in central positions during our two pre-season fixtures and have been standout performers. Rigg has clearly been on a fitness programme over the summer and has come back a couple of pounds stronger, whereas Le Fée has picked up where he left off at the back end of last season, scoring a fantastic solo strike against Liverpool on Saturday night.
The few games that we played last season without Xhaka in the starting eleven showed just how much we struggle without him, and although he's a certainty to be the first name on the team sheet most weeks, he's coming into the twilight of his career and will not be able to play up to potentially fifty games if we have a successful season.
#season #World #rigg #going
9 hours ago
The New York Yankees are bleeding stars to the injury list. Now Ben Rice carries the heavy weight of the lineup. He proved tonight he can handle the pressure. The team needed a hero, and Rice delivered a massive performance. He stepped up while everyone else looked to him from the bench.
Ben Rice. That's the name.
This win shows the young All-Star is ready for the big moment. The lineup will eventually be whole again, but Rice is showing he can lead now. His performance erased an early deficit and sparked a huge rally. On Monday, the Yankees defeated the White Sox 9-5. It was a crucial game for a team trying to stay afloat.
Chicago hosted the game at Rate Field on Monday evening. The Yankees trailed early but refused to give up. Rice ripped a tiebreaking seventh-inning single to change the momentum. His team-leading 73rd RBI of the season came from this hit. He drove in the run that put New York ahead for good.
One hit. That changed everything.
#Monday #game
Ben Rice. That's the name.
This win shows the young All-Star is ready for the big moment. The lineup will eventually be whole again, but Rice is showing he can lead now. His performance erased an early deficit and sparked a huge rally. On Monday, the Yankees defeated the White Sox 9-5. It was a crucial game for a team trying to stay afloat.
Chicago hosted the game at Rate Field on Monday evening. The Yankees trailed early but refused to give up. Rice ripped a tiebreaking seventh-inning single to change the momentum. His team-leading 73rd RBI of the season came from this hit. He drove in the run that put New York ahead for good.
One hit. That changed everything.
#Monday #game
9 hours ago
NavajoStirling believes KhamzatChimaev is a one-dimensional fighter.
After Chimaev suffered the first loss of his professional career,the hype surrounding the former Ultimate Fighting Championship champion has dampened. Stirlingrecently called him a "one-trick pony" and wants Chimaev to move upto light heavyweight so they can fight.
While Stirling acknowledges that Chimaev would bring much attentionto the 205-pound division, the unbeaten Kiwi wants to expose how"Borz" isn't a well-rounded fighter.
"I think he's a bit of a one-trick pony," Stirling told Full SendMMA. "I would love to fight him. I want to test my theory againstsomeone like that. I would love for some bigger names to come tothe division that could bring some hype."
Chimaev was undefeated and a massive betting favorite going intohis first middleweight ***** le defense against SeanStrickland at UFC 328 this past May. However, he visibly gassed out after afailed takedown attempt in the second round and completelyabandoned his wrestling thereafter.
Strickland then out-landed Chimaev on the feet en route to amassive upset win via split decision. UFC CEO DanaWhite later claimed that Chimaev had discussed a move up tolight heavyweight in the immediate aftermath of his firstprofessional loss. However, he has since been repeatedly callingfor a rematch against Strickland.
Meanwhile, Stirling has racked up five UFC wins, with two finishes,since making his Octagon debut in 2024. He is now scheduled tofight JanBlachowicz on less than three weeks' notice at UFC Belgrade on Aug. 1 in Serbia.
#trick
After Chimaev suffered the first loss of his professional career,the hype surrounding the former Ultimate Fighting Championship champion has dampened. Stirlingrecently called him a "one-trick pony" and wants Chimaev to move upto light heavyweight so they can fight.
While Stirling acknowledges that Chimaev would bring much attentionto the 205-pound division, the unbeaten Kiwi wants to expose how"Borz" isn't a well-rounded fighter.
"I think he's a bit of a one-trick pony," Stirling told Full SendMMA. "I would love to fight him. I want to test my theory againstsomeone like that. I would love for some bigger names to come tothe division that could bring some hype."
Chimaev was undefeated and a massive betting favorite going intohis first middleweight ***** le defense against SeanStrickland at UFC 328 this past May. However, he visibly gassed out after afailed takedown attempt in the second round and completelyabandoned his wrestling thereafter.
Strickland then out-landed Chimaev on the feet en route to amassive upset win via split decision. UFC CEO DanaWhite later claimed that Chimaev had discussed a move up tolight heavyweight in the immediate aftermath of his firstprofessional loss. However, he has since been repeatedly callingfor a rematch against Strickland.
Meanwhile, Stirling has racked up five UFC wins, with two finishes,since making his Octagon debut in 2024. He is now scheduled tofight JanBlachowicz on less than three weeks' notice at UFC Belgrade on Aug. 1 in Serbia.
#trick
10 hours ago
World number 10 Taylor Fritz captured his 250th hardcourt victory on Monday by defeating Belgium's Zizou Bergs in the first round of the ATP and WTA Washington Open.
The American third seed, seeking his 11th ATP tour ******* le and first Eastbourne last year, needed only 79 minutes to complete a 6-3, 6-4 triumph.
Wimbledon quarter-finalist Fritz will next face either countryman Tommy Paul or Poland's Kamil Majchrzak.
"He had a few break chances, but when I served out the first and went up a break in the second, I felt like the momentum was on my side," Fritz said.
"It's really good to get out of those games and to finish the match unbroken."
#fritz #first #World #Monday
The American third seed, seeking his 11th ATP tour ******* le and first Eastbourne last year, needed only 79 minutes to complete a 6-3, 6-4 triumph.
Wimbledon quarter-finalist Fritz will next face either countryman Tommy Paul or Poland's Kamil Majchrzak.
"He had a few break chances, but when I served out the first and went up a break in the second, I felt like the momentum was on my side," Fritz said.
"It's really good to get out of those games and to finish the match unbroken."
#fritz #first #World #Monday
11 hours ago
NavajoStirling saw a fighter in shambles right before his Dana White's Contender Series bout.
Stirling earned his Ultimate Fighting Championship contract with a knockout win onContender Series in 2024. He was sharing the locker room withQuemuelOttoni, who was set to face KodySteele. Ottoni eventually didn't make the walk to the Octagonand Stirling has now detailed what happened behind the scenes.
Stirling (10-0) recently revealed that Ottoni (12-4) was aggressivetowards Steele, and even other fighters, throughout fight weekuntil the weigh-ins. However, the Brazilian's nerves got the betterof him right before stepping out for his bout and he allegedlystarted crying backstage, even ripping off his hand wraps multipletimes.
Cutman Brad Tate, who was in charge of wrapping Ottoni, refused torepeat it after a point. The bout was eventually called off andSteele won his contract in a later Contender Series outing.
"The guy that was on Contenders [Series] was probably the worstone," Stirling told Full Send MMA. "He was fighting Kody Steele. Hechoked out AlexPereira back in the day. I was in the locker room with him… Atthe weigh-ins, he is puffing his chest, he is even looking at me,like, 'You wanna go?' I'm like, 'Bro, save it for tomorrow.' He'sstaunching Kody Steele out at the weigh-ins. And I was thinking,'This is going to be a banger.' We get to the fight night and hejust started crying. He took his gloves off three or four times.They had to re-wrap his hands. I think he had cutman Tate. Thecutman said, 'F*ck this guy, I'm not wrapping his handsanymore.'"
Both Tate and Steele have confirmed Stirling's story about Ottoni,who had choked out UFC superstar Pereira in the latter'sprofessional MMA debut in 2015. Ottoni and Pereira's careers havetaken contrasting trajectories since. While Pereira went on tobecome a two-division champion, Ottoni is yet to make it out of theregional scene. He has fought only once since the Contender Seriesfiasco, suffering a first-round technical knockout loss.
Meanwhile, the undefeated Stirling already has five UFC wins to hisname. The Kiwi is now scheduled to face JanBlachowicz (29-11) on less than three weeks' notice at UFC Belgrade in Serbia on Aug. 1.
#steele #bout
Stirling earned his Ultimate Fighting Championship contract with a knockout win onContender Series in 2024. He was sharing the locker room withQuemuelOttoni, who was set to face KodySteele. Ottoni eventually didn't make the walk to the Octagonand Stirling has now detailed what happened behind the scenes.
Stirling (10-0) recently revealed that Ottoni (12-4) was aggressivetowards Steele, and even other fighters, throughout fight weekuntil the weigh-ins. However, the Brazilian's nerves got the betterof him right before stepping out for his bout and he allegedlystarted crying backstage, even ripping off his hand wraps multipletimes.
Cutman Brad Tate, who was in charge of wrapping Ottoni, refused torepeat it after a point. The bout was eventually called off andSteele won his contract in a later Contender Series outing.
"The guy that was on Contenders [Series] was probably the worstone," Stirling told Full Send MMA. "He was fighting Kody Steele. Hechoked out AlexPereira back in the day. I was in the locker room with him… Atthe weigh-ins, he is puffing his chest, he is even looking at me,like, 'You wanna go?' I'm like, 'Bro, save it for tomorrow.' He'sstaunching Kody Steele out at the weigh-ins. And I was thinking,'This is going to be a banger.' We get to the fight night and hejust started crying. He took his gloves off three or four times.They had to re-wrap his hands. I think he had cutman Tate. Thecutman said, 'F*ck this guy, I'm not wrapping his handsanymore.'"
Both Tate and Steele have confirmed Stirling's story about Ottoni,who had choked out UFC superstar Pereira in the latter'sprofessional MMA debut in 2015. Ottoni and Pereira's careers havetaken contrasting trajectories since. While Pereira went on tobecome a two-division champion, Ottoni is yet to make it out of theregional scene. He has fought only once since the Contender Seriesfiasco, suffering a first-round technical knockout loss.
Meanwhile, the undefeated Stirling already has five UFC wins to hisname. The Kiwi is now scheduled to face JanBlachowicz (29-11) on less than three weeks' notice at UFC Belgrade in Serbia on Aug. 1.
#steele #bout
11 hours ago
BogdanGuskov has addressed his loss to MagomedAnkalaev.
Guskov (18-4-1) stepped up on 14 days' notice to replace KhalilRountree against Ankalaev (21-2-1) in the main event of theUltimate Fighting Championship's recent Fight Night in AbuDhabi. Guskov never quite found momentum as Ankalaev slowly andsteadily picked him apart. The former UFC champion eventually tookthe Uzbek contender down and finished him with ground-and-pound inthe final round.
Guskov apologized to his fans and thanked them for their unwaveringsupport. He vowed to bounce back stronger from his defeat atUFC Abu Dhabi.
"I'm sorry to everyone who believed in me," Guskov wrote on X."That night wasn't my night, but I'm grateful for everyone whostood behind me and supported me through this journey. Thank youfor all the kind words and messages. I'll learn from this, comeback stronger. I'm not done yet."
This was Guskov's first loss since a submission defeat in his UFCdebut in 2023. "Hitman" had bounced back from that result with afour-fight finishing streak before fighting JanBlachowicz to a draw last year.
#night #fight #stronger
Guskov (18-4-1) stepped up on 14 days' notice to replace KhalilRountree against Ankalaev (21-2-1) in the main event of theUltimate Fighting Championship's recent Fight Night in AbuDhabi. Guskov never quite found momentum as Ankalaev slowly andsteadily picked him apart. The former UFC champion eventually tookthe Uzbek contender down and finished him with ground-and-pound inthe final round.
Guskov apologized to his fans and thanked them for their unwaveringsupport. He vowed to bounce back stronger from his defeat atUFC Abu Dhabi.
"I'm sorry to everyone who believed in me," Guskov wrote on X."That night wasn't my night, but I'm grateful for everyone whostood behind me and supported me through this journey. Thank youfor all the kind words and messages. I'll learn from this, comeback stronger. I'm not done yet."
This was Guskov's first loss since a submission defeat in his UFCdebut in 2023. "Hitman" had bounced back from that result with afour-fight finishing streak before fighting JanBlachowicz to a draw last year.
#night #fight #stronger
3 days ago
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has firmly rejected rumours over Rohit Sharma's international future, stating there is "no question" of the India opener retiring at this stage despite growing speculation during the recent England tour.
Questions over Rohit's future gathered pace after a prolonged lean patch with the bat, with reports suggesting the third ODI against England at Lord's could potentially be his final appearance for India. However, the 39-year-old answered those doubts in emphatic fashion by smashing 138 off 110 **** , becoming the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at the iconic venue.
Speaking to reporters, Shukla rubbished the retirement rumours and insisted there was no truth to the speculation.
"Rohit Sharma is a part of our team and is continuing to play. The things being circulated in the media and on social media have no meaning. As of now, there is no question of his retirement," Shukla said.
Rohit's century at Lord's also reinforced his own stance on his future. The India opener has consistently maintained that he wants to continue representing the country and remains determined to secure a place in India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
In an interview with BCCI.tv after his match-winning innings, Rohit made it clear that outside speculation would not distract him from his responsibilities.
"My job is with the bat. Come and play, represent my country, represent my team. That's what I have been told to do since my debut so that's what I am going to do," Rohit said.
"The noise since I made my debut was there. And till the time I am going to stay here, it is always going to be there. So it doesn't really matter too much. What matters is what I do on the field, try and contribute to the success of the team. That's all my focus is right now. And let the noise be there. If there is no noise, there is no fun."
Shukla also brushed aside calls for changes in India's leadership group following criticism directed at captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but the decision on who stays in the team and who does not rests with the selectors. The Indian team is performing well and winning matches, so there is no need for any changes at present," Shukla said.
Although Rohit's century at Lord's was one of the highlights of the tour, India finished the United Kingdom leg on a disappointing note. The visitors lost the ODI series against England 2-1 after earlier suffering a 2-0 defeat to Ireland and a 4-0 loss in the T20I series against England.
#england #noise
Questions over Rohit's future gathered pace after a prolonged lean patch with the bat, with reports suggesting the third ODI against England at Lord's could potentially be his final appearance for India. However, the 39-year-old answered those doubts in emphatic fashion by smashing 138 off 110 **** , becoming the first Indian batter to score an ODI century at the iconic venue.
Speaking to reporters, Shukla rubbished the retirement rumours and insisted there was no truth to the speculation.
"Rohit Sharma is a part of our team and is continuing to play. The things being circulated in the media and on social media have no meaning. As of now, there is no question of his retirement," Shukla said.
Rohit's century at Lord's also reinforced his own stance on his future. The India opener has consistently maintained that he wants to continue representing the country and remains determined to secure a place in India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
In an interview with BCCI.tv after his match-winning innings, Rohit made it clear that outside speculation would not distract him from his responsibilities.
"My job is with the bat. Come and play, represent my country, represent my team. That's what I have been told to do since my debut so that's what I am going to do," Rohit said.
"The noise since I made my debut was there. And till the time I am going to stay here, it is always going to be there. So it doesn't really matter too much. What matters is what I do on the field, try and contribute to the success of the team. That's all my focus is right now. And let the noise be there. If there is no noise, there is no fun."
Shukla also brushed aside calls for changes in India's leadership group following criticism directed at captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but the decision on who stays in the team and who does not rests with the selectors. The Indian team is performing well and winning matches, so there is no need for any changes at present," Shukla said.
Although Rohit's century at Lord's was one of the highlights of the tour, India finished the United Kingdom leg on a disappointing note. The visitors lost the ODI series against England 2-1 after earlier suffering a 2-0 defeat to Ireland and a 4-0 loss in the T20I series against England.
#england #noise
3 days ago
There is not long to go until the 2026-27 season gets underway for Real Madrid, who have Jose Mourinho back at the helm for the first time in over 13 years. The Portuguese has been tasked with ending Los Blancos' run without a major trophy, which dates back to the end of the 2024-25 campaign when they won their 15th Champions League.
There is a lot of hope that Mourinho is the ideal man to get Real Madrid back on track. A lot of current and former players have expressed their support in recent weeks, with the latest being Borja Mayoral during an interview with Marca (via MD). He recounted his memories of the Portuguese, starting with the positives.
"What I liked the most, above all, was training. They were very competitive and a lot of fun. Although my situation was not ideal, I really enjoyed training with him. Over time I was even surprised. From the conversations we had and some things he said to me before certain games, I felt that he valued my work. I remember that on one occasion he told me that I deserved to have played much earlier and he also spoke very highly of me in a press conference. That sticks with me. He was a close person. With Gonzalo Villar, Carles Pérez and the Spaniards he talked a lot about his time at Real Madrid. As I have always been very curious, I took the opportunity to ask him many things about his time at Madrid."
However, there were also negatives that Mayoral remembers, such as Mourinho's inability to take defeat well.
"Maybe he didn't really know how to lose, he made comments within the dressing room that I didn't like. Not only towards me, but also towards other colleagues. I understand that he is a very competitive person and that in the heat we can all say things, but I believe that respect for people should always be above all else."
#things #mayoral
There is a lot of hope that Mourinho is the ideal man to get Real Madrid back on track. A lot of current and former players have expressed their support in recent weeks, with the latest being Borja Mayoral during an interview with Marca (via MD). He recounted his memories of the Portuguese, starting with the positives.
"What I liked the most, above all, was training. They were very competitive and a lot of fun. Although my situation was not ideal, I really enjoyed training with him. Over time I was even surprised. From the conversations we had and some things he said to me before certain games, I felt that he valued my work. I remember that on one occasion he told me that I deserved to have played much earlier and he also spoke very highly of me in a press conference. That sticks with me. He was a close person. With Gonzalo Villar, Carles Pérez and the Spaniards he talked a lot about his time at Real Madrid. As I have always been very curious, I took the opportunity to ask him many things about his time at Madrid."
However, there were also negatives that Mayoral remembers, such as Mourinho's inability to take defeat well.
"Maybe he didn't really know how to lose, he made comments within the dressing room that I didn't like. Not only towards me, but also towards other colleagues. I understand that he is a very competitive person and that in the heat we can all say things, but I believe that respect for people should always be above all else."
#things #mayoral
3 days ago
AC Milan's Serie A campaign begins on 23 August, with an away trip to face Ignazio Abate's Torino. One curious statistic links the Rossoneri's last three league visits to Turin: each match featured a penalty. Yet AC Milan only came away victorious when the spot-kick was awarded to the opposition, in one of football's many quirks. The sequence began in February 2025. Torino took the lead through an own goal before referee Simone Sozza awarded AC Milan a first-half penalty. Christian Pulisic stepped up, but Milinković-Savić produced an excellent save. Despite creating numerous chances and eventually finding an equaliser, the Rossoneri ultimately fell to a 2-1 defeat.
A different outcome followed a few months later, in early October 2025, when referee Marco Guida pointed to the spot during Juventus vs AC Milan with the score still goalless. Once again, Pulisic took the penalty, but his effort drifted narrowly wide, and the match finished 0-0. Two months later, it was back to Turin once more. Early in the game between Torino and AC Milan, referee Chiffi awarded a penalty to the hosts. Vlašić converted to give Torino the lead, but after a dramatic and eventful contest, the Rossoneri fought back to secure a 3-2 victory. The penalty spot has also featured prominently in Mike Maignan's summer, who began his World Cup campaign by saving Erling Strand Larsen's penalty in France's victory over Norway. Before that save on the world stage, Maignan had already denied Dybala and Çalhanoğlu from the spot in Serie A, while the only players to beat him were Pellegrini (Roma) and Vlašić (Torino, twice).
The new AC Milan 2026/27 Home Kit is available: buy it now!
#spot
A different outcome followed a few months later, in early October 2025, when referee Marco Guida pointed to the spot during Juventus vs AC Milan with the score still goalless. Once again, Pulisic took the penalty, but his effort drifted narrowly wide, and the match finished 0-0. Two months later, it was back to Turin once more. Early in the game between Torino and AC Milan, referee Chiffi awarded a penalty to the hosts. Vlašić converted to give Torino the lead, but after a dramatic and eventful contest, the Rossoneri fought back to secure a 3-2 victory. The penalty spot has also featured prominently in Mike Maignan's summer, who began his World Cup campaign by saving Erling Strand Larsen's penalty in France's victory over Norway. Before that save on the world stage, Maignan had already denied Dybala and Çalhanoğlu from the spot in Serie A, while the only players to beat him were Pellegrini (Roma) and Vlašić (Torino, twice).
The new AC Milan 2026/27 Home Kit is available: buy it now!
#spot
3 days ago
All-Star weekend is always a busy couple of days for the WNBA, and this year's iteration was no exception.
On Friday, the Shooting Stars competition and 3-Point Contest occurred—and both lived up to the hype.
There were plenty of worthy shooters involved in the 3-Point Contest, but in the end, Dallas Wings rookie Azzi Fudd took home the trophy. She became the first rookie ever to win the competition. She had 24 points in the first round and then upped the ante, scoring 30 in the final.
Fudd's 30-point performance defeated the Portland Fire's Bridget Carleton, who had just 19 points in the final round after scoring 27 points in the first round.
The four other participants who were eliminated in the opening round included the Atlanta Dream's Rhyne Howard (20), Toronto Tempo's Marina Mabrey (18), Seattle Storm's Natisha Heideman (17) and Golden State Valkyries' Janelle Salaün (19).
#Competition #rookie #final
On Friday, the Shooting Stars competition and 3-Point Contest occurred—and both lived up to the hype.
There were plenty of worthy shooters involved in the 3-Point Contest, but in the end, Dallas Wings rookie Azzi Fudd took home the trophy. She became the first rookie ever to win the competition. She had 24 points in the first round and then upped the ante, scoring 30 in the final.
Fudd's 30-point performance defeated the Portland Fire's Bridget Carleton, who had just 19 points in the final round after scoring 27 points in the first round.
The four other participants who were eliminated in the opening round included the Atlanta Dream's Rhyne Howard (20), Toronto Tempo's Marina Mabrey (18), Seattle Storm's Natisha Heideman (17) and Golden State Valkyries' Janelle Salaün (19).
#Competition #rookie #final
3 days ago
Shreyas Iyer finally ended his wait for a victory as India's T20I captain after leading the side to a convincing seven-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the opening match of the three-game series in Harare on Thursday.
The result marked Shreyas' first win since taking over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav earlier this year. India had endured a difficult run under his leadership, beginning with a shock 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before suffering a 4-0 drubbing against England in a five-match T20I series.
Former India opener Sadagopan Ramesh said the celebrations following the Zimbabwe win were understandable given the team's recent struggles, insisting the victory would come as a major relief for the skipper.
"Many are saying India shouldn't be so excited for just a win over Zimbabwe. Yet, when you are starving for a victory for so long in T20Is, even leftover food will taste like a wedding meal. Shreyas Iyer will be relieved, considering India's fall under his captaincy. He would have reached a point where a win over anyone would have been enough for him," Ramesh said in a video uploaded on Instagram.
Ramesh also reserved praise for VVS Laxman, who is serving as India's interim head coach for the Zimbabwe tour. He credited the former India batter for consistently delivering positive results whenever he takes charge of the national side.
"VVS Laxman also deserves high praise. India perform well every time he's the head coach. Under him, India seem to always whitewash the opponents, even at a time the other teams are constantly whitewashing India otherwise. It got to the point where India just needed a win of any kind and hence their elation after beating even Zimbabwe," he added.
India's victory was further highlighted by a historic knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old blazed his way to a maiden international half-century in just 18 ****** , becoming the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Sooryavanshi reached the milestone at the age of 15 years and 118 days, eclipsing the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar. The batting great was 16 years and 213 days old when he registered his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in a Test at Faisalabad in 1989.
#shreyas #victory #series
The result marked Shreyas' first win since taking over the captaincy from Suryakumar Yadav earlier this year. India had endured a difficult run under his leadership, beginning with a shock 2-0 series defeat to Ireland before suffering a 4-0 drubbing against England in a five-match T20I series.
Former India opener Sadagopan Ramesh said the celebrations following the Zimbabwe win were understandable given the team's recent struggles, insisting the victory would come as a major relief for the skipper.
"Many are saying India shouldn't be so excited for just a win over Zimbabwe. Yet, when you are starving for a victory for so long in T20Is, even leftover food will taste like a wedding meal. Shreyas Iyer will be relieved, considering India's fall under his captaincy. He would have reached a point where a win over anyone would have been enough for him," Ramesh said in a video uploaded on Instagram.
Ramesh also reserved praise for VVS Laxman, who is serving as India's interim head coach for the Zimbabwe tour. He credited the former India batter for consistently delivering positive results whenever he takes charge of the national side.
"VVS Laxman also deserves high praise. India perform well every time he's the head coach. Under him, India seem to always whitewash the opponents, even at a time the other teams are constantly whitewashing India otherwise. It got to the point where India just needed a win of any kind and hence their elation after beating even Zimbabwe," he added.
India's victory was further highlighted by a historic knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old blazed his way to a maiden international half-century in just 18 ****** , becoming the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket.
Sooryavanshi reached the milestone at the age of 15 years and 118 days, eclipsing the previous record held by Sachin Tendulkar. The batting great was 16 years and 213 days old when he registered his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in a Test at Faisalabad in 1989.
#shreyas #victory #series
4 days ago
A featherweight clash between Patricio Pitbull and Doo Ho Choi is on for UFC 331 on Sept. 19; multiple people with knowledge of the situation confirmed the news to MMA Fighting.
The numbered event will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The promotion has yet to announce the headlining attraction for UFC 331.
Pitbull (37-9) attempts to rebound from a decision defeat to Aaron Pico in April, a result that dropped his UFC record to 1-2.
The Brazilian is a former two-division champion in Bellator, going 24-6 in that company before joining the UFC, and is currently ranked No. 15 on the MMA Fighting Global Rankings. Pitbull's lone UFC victory was a decision over Dan Ige.
Choi (17-4-1) won three straight since 2024, stopping Bill Algeo and Nate Landwehr that year before coming back to action this past May to score a knockout and earn a $50,000 check for a "Fight of the Night" win over Daniel Santos.
#pitbull #choi #fighting
The numbered event will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The promotion has yet to announce the headlining attraction for UFC 331.
Pitbull (37-9) attempts to rebound from a decision defeat to Aaron Pico in April, a result that dropped his UFC record to 1-2.
The Brazilian is a former two-division champion in Bellator, going 24-6 in that company before joining the UFC, and is currently ranked No. 15 on the MMA Fighting Global Rankings. Pitbull's lone UFC victory was a decision over Dan Ige.
Choi (17-4-1) won three straight since 2024, stopping Bill Algeo and Nate Landwehr that year before coming back to action this past May to score a knockout and earn a $50,000 check for a "Fight of the Night" win over Daniel Santos.
#pitbull #choi #fighting
4 days ago
According to a report from The Spokesman Review's Greg Woods, the Washington Huskies and Washington State Cougars will not play their annual Apple Cup rivalry on the hardwood.
It's the first time since 1917 that the two teams won't meet in the regular season after the Huskies moved from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten following the end of the 2023-24 season; instead, the in-state rivals will play an exhibition game in Seattle at some point this fall.
The Huskies currently lead the series 189-111, and have won the last three matchups against the Cougars, most recently an 81-69 victory in Pullman.
In that contest, the Huskies were led by freshman forward Hannes Steinbach, who posted 14 points and 13 rebounds as part of a stellar season that saw him selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the No. 14 overall pick in June's NBA draft, while sophomore guard Wesley Yates added 26 points and 7 rebounds in the win.
Coach Danny Sprinkle, who grew up a Husky after being born in Pullman because his late father, Bill, played defensive back for Washington in the 1960s, is undefeated in his two games against the Cougars and will have to wait at least another year for an opportunity to earn another win over WSU.
#huskies #season #according
It's the first time since 1917 that the two teams won't meet in the regular season after the Huskies moved from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten following the end of the 2023-24 season; instead, the in-state rivals will play an exhibition game in Seattle at some point this fall.
The Huskies currently lead the series 189-111, and have won the last three matchups against the Cougars, most recently an 81-69 victory in Pullman.
In that contest, the Huskies were led by freshman forward Hannes Steinbach, who posted 14 points and 13 rebounds as part of a stellar season that saw him selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the No. 14 overall pick in June's NBA draft, while sophomore guard Wesley Yates added 26 points and 7 rebounds in the win.
Coach Danny Sprinkle, who grew up a Husky after being born in Pullman because his late father, Bill, played defensive back for Washington in the 1960s, is undefeated in his two games against the Cougars and will have to wait at least another year for an opportunity to earn another win over WSU.
#huskies #season #according
4 days ago
It took years for Magomed Ankalaev to climb to the top of the light heavyweight mountain, and less than 90 seconds for his reign to end. There's no telling how long it will take him to make it back, but he takes his first steps to another championship opportunity at UFC Abu Dhabi.
Saturday's main event features Ankalaev in his first fight since a brutal knockout loss to rival Alex Pereira at UFC 320 this past October. Ankalaev was originally set to face Khalil Rountree Jr., but with Rountree forced to withdraw, in steps up-and-coming contender Bogdan Guskov. This is a change of plans for Guskov as well as he was lined up to rematch Jan Blachowicz at UFC Belgrade next week, only for the matchmakers to call upon him to save the UFC Abu Dhabi headliner.
For one reason or another, Ankalaev has seemingly never been a favorite of the UFC's shot-callers as it took a seven-year unbeaten streak for him to earn his first ******* le shot; now, he needs to stifle Guskov just to keep his spot in line. On the other side, Guskov is undefeated in his past five fights and suddenly finds himself with an opportunity to jump into the top 5 of the rankings.
Will it be status quo or a new face in the ******* le picture by the end of the weekend?
What: UFC Abu Dhabi
#guskov #steps #Opportunity #past
Saturday's main event features Ankalaev in his first fight since a brutal knockout loss to rival Alex Pereira at UFC 320 this past October. Ankalaev was originally set to face Khalil Rountree Jr., but with Rountree forced to withdraw, in steps up-and-coming contender Bogdan Guskov. This is a change of plans for Guskov as well as he was lined up to rematch Jan Blachowicz at UFC Belgrade next week, only for the matchmakers to call upon him to save the UFC Abu Dhabi headliner.
For one reason or another, Ankalaev has seemingly never been a favorite of the UFC's shot-callers as it took a seven-year unbeaten streak for him to earn his first ******* le shot; now, he needs to stifle Guskov just to keep his spot in line. On the other side, Guskov is undefeated in his past five fights and suddenly finds himself with an opportunity to jump into the top 5 of the rankings.
Will it be status quo or a new face in the ******* le picture by the end of the weekend?
What: UFC Abu Dhabi
#guskov #steps #Opportunity #past
4 days ago
Crystal Palace are reported to have made Stade Brestois 29's Raphaël Le Guen (19) one of their targets for the summer transfer window, according to the BBC.
At just 19 years of age, the Breton defender is seen as a potential successor to Maxence Lacroix (26), whose future looks set to be with Chelsea, where he is expected to sign a contract in the coming hours.
A product of the Brest youth academy, Le Guen made his professional debut last August, coming on as a substitute during his side's 3-1 defeat away to RC Lens. Selected again against AJ Auxerre (a 3-0 defeat) in March, the defender finally earned his first start against Paris FC (a 4-0 defeat) on matchday 32.
He put in a convincing performance and went on to finish the season as a regular starter, notably starting the matches against Paris Saint-Germain and RC Strasbourg-Alsace.
Under contract with Les Pirates until 2029, Le Guen could therefore soon make the leap to the Premier League, where he would have the opportunity to play under his compatriot Pierre Sage.
#guen #defeat #made #defender
At just 19 years of age, the Breton defender is seen as a potential successor to Maxence Lacroix (26), whose future looks set to be with Chelsea, where he is expected to sign a contract in the coming hours.
A product of the Brest youth academy, Le Guen made his professional debut last August, coming on as a substitute during his side's 3-1 defeat away to RC Lens. Selected again against AJ Auxerre (a 3-0 defeat) in March, the defender finally earned his first start against Paris FC (a 4-0 defeat) on matchday 32.
He put in a convincing performance and went on to finish the season as a regular starter, notably starting the matches against Paris Saint-Germain and RC Strasbourg-Alsace.
Under contract with Les Pirates until 2029, Le Guen could therefore soon make the leap to the Premier League, where he would have the opportunity to play under his compatriot Pierre Sage.
#guen #defeat #made #defender
4 days ago
The Miami Marlins (52-51) welcome the San Diego Padres (50-53) to South Beach this weekend. It is a crucial three-game set for both teams' playoff hopes. Each club has struggled following the All-Star break. The loser of this series will kiss their postseason chances goodbye.
The Padres fell short for a second consecutive day, as a late-game rally ended in a frustrating 6-5 defeat to the Atlanta Braves. The loss dropped them to 2-5 on their 10-game, three-city road trip.
The Friars began the scoring with a three-run rally off of Braves ace Chris Sale. A fielding error by left fielder Mauricio Dubón aided the offense, as it was followed by a bases-loaded walk to Fernando Tatis Jr. and a two-run single by Luis Renglio. But that lead was short-lived.
After Padres opener Kyle Hart pitched a scoreless first inning, Griffin Canning came into the contest as the bulk pitcher. His struggles continued with the first batter he faced. Michael Harris II homered on the second pitch of his at-bat. The Braves scored four more runs in the fourth inning, as Ozzie Albies hit a solo home run and Dominic Smith followed with a three-run blast.
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#short
The Padres fell short for a second consecutive day, as a late-game rally ended in a frustrating 6-5 defeat to the Atlanta Braves. The loss dropped them to 2-5 on their 10-game, three-city road trip.
The Friars began the scoring with a three-run rally off of Braves ace Chris Sale. A fielding error by left fielder Mauricio Dubón aided the offense, as it was followed by a bases-loaded walk to Fernando Tatis Jr. and a two-run single by Luis Renglio. But that lead was short-lived.
After Padres opener Kyle Hart pitched a scoreless first inning, Griffin Canning came into the contest as the bulk pitcher. His struggles continued with the first batter he faced. Michael Harris II homered on the second pitch of his at-bat. The Braves scored four more runs in the fourth inning, as Ozzie Albies hit a solo home run and Dominic Smith followed with a three-run blast.
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#short
4 days ago
Joe Root is set to return as England's Test captain, with his second spell in charge likely to continue through next summer's home Ashes series against Australia, The Athletic reported on Friday.
England's search for a new Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket now appears set to end with Root returning to the role.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to announce Root as captain for the three-Test series against Pakistan, starting on August 19, with the appointment likely to extend into next year's Ashes, The Athletic report said.
The move would allow Harry Brook, Stokes' deputy in Tests, to continue as England's white-ball captain ahead of next year's 50-over World Cup, and continue working with the T20 and one-day international coach, Brendon McCullum.
England are still searching for a new Test coach after parting ways with McCullum in the red-ball format. Aa per The Athletic report, ****** istant coach Marcus Trescothick is increasingly expected to take charge on an interim basis for the Pakistan series.
The ECB has faced a difficult month after the end of England's first Test ****** ignment of the summer against New Zealand, which left the team looking for both a new captain and a new Test coach.
Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test of the series, which England lost 2-1. Soon after, the ECB also decided to replace McCullum after four years as Test coach.
Root had already stepped in as captain for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes was suspended following the late-night drinking session in Chelsea after the first Test, an incident that led to further problems for English cricket.
That experience appears to have convinced the ECB that Root remains its best option for the role.
The only uncertainty was whether Root, England's highest Test run-scorer, wanted to return to captaincy after saying he was done with the job when his first spell ended in 2022. He had stepped down after England managed only one win in 17 Tests.
Now Root, who is currently playing for Welsh Fire in The Hundred, is set to lead England again, beginning with the Pakistan series, as the team looks to recover from a difficult year.
England started 2026 with a 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia and then suffered its first major home series loss since 2012 against New Zealand.
#england #Athletic
England's search for a new Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket now appears set to end with Root returning to the role.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to announce Root as captain for the three-Test series against Pakistan, starting on August 19, with the appointment likely to extend into next year's Ashes, The Athletic report said.
The move would allow Harry Brook, Stokes' deputy in Tests, to continue as England's white-ball captain ahead of next year's 50-over World Cup, and continue working with the T20 and one-day international coach, Brendon McCullum.
England are still searching for a new Test coach after parting ways with McCullum in the red-ball format. Aa per The Athletic report, ****** istant coach Marcus Trescothick is increasingly expected to take charge on an interim basis for the Pakistan series.
The ECB has faced a difficult month after the end of England's first Test ****** ignment of the summer against New Zealand, which left the team looking for both a new captain and a new Test coach.
Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test of the series, which England lost 2-1. Soon after, the ECB also decided to replace McCullum after four years as Test coach.
Root had already stepped in as captain for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes was suspended following the late-night drinking session in Chelsea after the first Test, an incident that led to further problems for English cricket.
That experience appears to have convinced the ECB that Root remains its best option for the role.
The only uncertainty was whether Root, England's highest Test run-scorer, wanted to return to captaincy after saying he was done with the job when his first spell ended in 2022. He had stepped down after England managed only one win in 17 Tests.
Now Root, who is currently playing for Welsh Fire in The Hundred, is set to lead England again, beginning with the Pakistan series, as the team looks to recover from a difficult year.
England started 2026 with a 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia and then suffered its first major home series loss since 2012 against New Zealand.
#england #Athletic
4 days ago
Italy are still on the look-out for a new head coach and could also bring in a new figure to act as the bridge between the youth and senior sides after learning that Gianluigi Buffon will not be returning to the Azzurri set-up.
FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo are still on the search for a new head coach for the Italy national team after learning that neither Pep Guardiola nor Carlo Ancelotti will be taking on the job. Friday’s reports indicate that Andrea Pirlo is the new frontrunner for the vacant CT role.
La Gazzetta dello Sport also reported on Friday that Buffon has rejected the opportunity to return to the Italy set-up.
Buffon had joined the national team group shortly after his retirement in 2023 and had served as delegation chief until Italy’s World Cup play-off final defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the end of May 2026, after which he resigned along with Gennaro Gattuso and former FIGC President Gabriele Gravina.
However, under the new leadership of Maldini and Giovanni Malagò, Buffon had been offered the opportunity to return in a more ‘hands-on’ role within the Club Italia set-up.
#figc #learning
FIGC technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo are still on the search for a new head coach for the Italy national team after learning that neither Pep Guardiola nor Carlo Ancelotti will be taking on the job. Friday’s reports indicate that Andrea Pirlo is the new frontrunner for the vacant CT role.
La Gazzetta dello Sport also reported on Friday that Buffon has rejected the opportunity to return to the Italy set-up.
Buffon had joined the national team group shortly after his retirement in 2023 and had served as delegation chief until Italy’s World Cup play-off final defeat against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the end of May 2026, after which he resigned along with Gennaro Gattuso and former FIGC President Gabriele Gravina.
However, under the new leadership of Maldini and Giovanni Malagò, Buffon had been offered the opportunity to return in a more ‘hands-on’ role within the Club Italia set-up.
#figc #learning
4 days ago
Report: Joe Root set for England Test captaincy return against Pakistan, second stint could extend to 2027 Ashes originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Joe Root is set to be reappointed as England's Test captain from the Pakistan series.
His second stint could extend through to next summer's home Ashes against Australia.
Marcus Trescothick is expected to serve as interim coach at Headingley, Lord's and Edgbaston.
England have endured one of the most chaotic months in their recent history. Ben Stokes retired from international cricket during a 2-1 home defeat by New Zealand, Brendon McCullum was sacked as Test coach days later, and Andy Flower ruled himself out of replacing him.
#test
Joe Root is set to be reappointed as England's Test captain from the Pakistan series.
His second stint could extend through to next summer's home Ashes against Australia.
Marcus Trescothick is expected to serve as interim coach at Headingley, Lord's and Edgbaston.
England have endured one of the most chaotic months in their recent history. Ben Stokes retired from international cricket during a 2-1 home defeat by New Zealand, Brendon McCullum was sacked as Test coach days later, and Andy Flower ruled himself out of replacing him.
#test
4 days ago
With the IBF world light-middleweight ******* le in his possession, Josh Kelly feels "it's a different version of me" since he dethroned Bakhram Murtazaliev as he promised to "put on a show" in his maiden defence against Caoimhin Agyarko on Saturday.
Kelly had to bide his time for his opportunity, but the silky 32-year-old from Sunderland grabbed it with both hands with a majority points decision verdict against the Russian in January, improving to 18 wins with one defeat and one draw.
In some ways, 29-year-old Belfast challenger Agyarko has followed a similar path, enjoying big promotional backing in spells under the Queensberry and Matchroom banners, but was cut adrift by the latter following what was then a career-best win over Troy Williamson in 2023.
Both men will walk to the ring in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on the undercard of Anthony Joshua's heavyweight return against Kristian Prenga fully aware of how tough it has been to get to this stage.
Kelly, who had to rebuild from a 2021 defeat by David Avanesyan, has rattled off eight successful wins, culminating in his ******* le victory over Murtazaliev in Newcastle, dropping the champion in the fourth before coming through a late storm and surviving his own 11th-round trip to the canvas.
#year #wins #defeat #caoimhin
Kelly had to bide his time for his opportunity, but the silky 32-year-old from Sunderland grabbed it with both hands with a majority points decision verdict against the Russian in January, improving to 18 wins with one defeat and one draw.
In some ways, 29-year-old Belfast challenger Agyarko has followed a similar path, enjoying big promotional backing in spells under the Queensberry and Matchroom banners, but was cut adrift by the latter following what was then a career-best win over Troy Williamson in 2023.
Both men will walk to the ring in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on the undercard of Anthony Joshua's heavyweight return against Kristian Prenga fully aware of how tough it has been to get to this stage.
Kelly, who had to rebuild from a 2021 defeat by David Avanesyan, has rattled off eight successful wins, culminating in his ******* le victory over Murtazaliev in Newcastle, dropping the champion in the fourth before coming through a late storm and surviving his own 11th-round trip to the canvas.
#year #wins #defeat #caoimhin
4 days ago
The Atlanta Braves secured another series win after Thursday’s 6-5 defeat over the San Diego Padres. The Braves took the series 3-1, making it their second series win since returning from the All-Star Break.
Chris Sale got the start in the series finale, where he struck out 11 in six innings. He surrendered three runs, but the offense picked him up. The Atlanta lineup totaled nine hits, four of them home runs.
Up next, the Braves travel to Camden Yards for a weekend clash with the Baltimore Orioles. The series gets underway tonight at 7:05 ET.
Sean Murphy is joining the Gwinnett Stripers Friday evening to begin his rehab ***** ignment. He has missed the last two months with a fractured finger.
St. Louis Cardinals reliever Max Rajcic recently underwent Tommy John surgery. He will miss the remainder of the season and likely all of 2027.
#Braves
Chris Sale got the start in the series finale, where he struck out 11 in six innings. He surrendered three runs, but the offense picked him up. The Atlanta lineup totaled nine hits, four of them home runs.
Up next, the Braves travel to Camden Yards for a weekend clash with the Baltimore Orioles. The series gets underway tonight at 7:05 ET.
Sean Murphy is joining the Gwinnett Stripers Friday evening to begin his rehab ***** ignment. He has missed the last two months with a fractured finger.
St. Louis Cardinals reliever Max Rajcic recently underwent Tommy John surgery. He will miss the remainder of the season and likely all of 2027.
#Braves
