The post Bitcoin Price Holds Near $68K as South Korea Stock Market Crashes  appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin traded near $68,200 on Wednesday as global markets reacted to a sharp sell-off in South Korea’s stock market and rising geopolitical tension in the Middle East.

The cryptocurrency rose about 0.7 percent in the past 24 hours after briefly slipping below $67,500 earlier this week. Data shows Bitcoin held above a 24-hour low of $67,406 while trading volumes increased during early Asian hours.

The move comes as investors assess broader market stress following a sudden decline in South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI index.

Korea Market Crash Triggers Global Risk Reaction

South Korea’s stock market plunged more than 10 percent during Wednesday trading, triggering a circuit breaker after an earlier 8 percent drop halted trading temporarily.

The sell-off wiped out an estimated $270 billion in market value in a single session. Major semiconductor companies led the decline. Samsung Electronics fell about 10 percent, while SK Hynix dropped roughly 12 percent.

The sharp decline came as oil prices climbed above $80 amid tension in the Middle East and concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

South Korea imports most of its energy supply, and disruptions in the region can raise production costs for industries such as semiconductor manufacturing.

The global chip sector plays a major role in artificial intelligence infrastructure, particularly through high-bandwidth memory used in advanced computing systems.

Bitcoin Institutional Demand Continues

Institutional flows into Bitcoin remain active despite volatility in global markets.

Data from spot Bitcoin ETF filings shows BlackRock’s fund purchased roughly $264 million worth of Bitcoin within the past 24 hours. The inflow indicates continued institutional exposure to the asset class even as traditional markets face turbulence.

BTC Price Consolidates Amid Market Uncertainty

While equities in Asia dropped sharply, Bitcoin remained relatively stable. The cryptocurrency continues to trade within a consolidation range between roughly $67,000 and $70,000.

A daily close above $70,000 could strengthen the bullish structure and open the path toward $77,000.

On the downside, a close below $62,000 would weaken the market structure and increase the risk of a deeper correction.

Current price action forms a bear flag pattern, which historically can lead to a downward breakout if selling pressure increases.

What Next For Bitcoin Price?

Several support and resistance levels remain important for Bitcoin’s next move. A major support zone between $54,000 and $57,000. Another support level sits near $55,000, which previously acted as strong horizontal support during earlier market corrections. 

On the upside, Bitcoin continues to face resistance near the top of its current consolidation range, a level the price has struggled to break in recent sessions. 

A decisive move above this resistance could trigger another bullish rally, while a drop below support may open the door for a deeper correction toward the mid-$50,000 range.

The post AI Models Favor Bitcoin Over Fiat in New Study appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

A new study by the Bitcoin Policy Institute shows that 22 of 36 top AI models ranked Bitcoin as their preferred currency in simulated economic tests, while none chose fiat as their top pick. Researchers evaluated models from OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, DeepSeek, xAI, and MiniMax across 28 currency scenarios, including store of value, payments, and settlement efficiency. The findings suggest AI sees Bitcoin’s digital properties as more favorable than traditional money in key economic roles.

The post XRP Price Prediction 2026: What 3 AI Models Say About the Next Cycle appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The cryptocurrency market has been volatile in early 2026, and XRP has not been immune to the volatility. Over the past month, the digital asset lost roughly 45% of its value within four weeks.

However, some analysts argue that the recent decline may not tell the full story. New projections generated by three artificial intelligence models hint that XRP’s long-term trajectory could look very different from its recent performance.

XRP’s Sharp Correction Raises Questions

The recent downturn followed technical issues and broader market pressure, which pushed XRP into one of its steepest short-term corrections in recent years.

While the price dropped sharply, network activity on the XRP Ledger reportedly increased by about 30% during the same period. For analysts, that divergence between price and usage has sparked debate about whether the asset’s market value is temporarily disconnecting from its underlying utility.

In traditional markets, such situations sometimes occur when investors react strongly to short-term news while long-term fundamentals continue to develop.

Three AI Models Offer Different Scenarios

To better understand XRP’s possible path forward, analysts applied three separate artificial intelligence forecasting models. Each model produced a different outlook based on varying assumptions about adoption, liquidity and market cycles.

Model One: Utility-Driven Floor

The first model estimates a conservative range of $1.50 to $2. This scenario assumes XRP continues growing steadily through real-world payment use cases and institutional transaction flows.

Even without strong retail speculation, the model suggests that rising activity on the XRP Ledger could support a gradual price increase over time.

Model Two: Cyclical Growth Scenario

A second model places XRP within a $3 to $5 range, drawing comparisons to historical crypto market cycles.

This projection assumes that XRP benefits from broader market expansion and increasing adoption following legal clarity and infrastructure development across the network.

Under this scenario, XRP evolves from a speculative asset into a more mature financial instrument used in cross-border transactions and liquidity management.

Model Three: Liquidity Shock Outlier

The most aggressive model explores a scenario in which XRP’s role in global payment infrastructure expands rapidly. If financial institutions adopt the network as a major bridge liquidity layer, demand for XRP could increase significantly.

In that case, the model says the token could potentially move into double-digit territory during the next major market cycle.

Analysts warn that this outcome depends heavily on institutional adoption and broader financial market developments.

A Market Still Driven by Sentiment

Despite these projections, the crypto market remains sensitive to short-term sentiment.

Large price swings often occur when traders react quickly to news events, technical issues or macroeconomic developments. In the short term, market behavior can resemble what investors describe as a “voting machine,” where sentiment dominates.

Over longer periods, however, price movements tend to align more closely with utility, adoption and network growth.

The post Circle Mints $1B USDC on Solana appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Circle has minted $1 billion in USDC on Solana in just hours, bringing its total 2026 issuance on the network to $23.75 billion. Institutions and exchanges create USDC by depositing dollars, fueling liquidity for trading, DeFi protocols, and new token launches on Solana’s fast, low-fee blockchain. Analysts view the surge as significant “dry powder” ready for market deployment, boosting Solana’s role as a leading stablecoin hub alongside Ethereum and Tron.

The post Ethereum Queue Hits 3.4M ETH, 60-Day Wait appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Ethereum’s validator entry queue has ballooned to around 3.4 million ETH, signaling strong demand from large investors, corporations, and crypto exchanges choosing to stake rather than sell during recent market conditions. This has created one of the longest staking queues since the move to Proof of Stake, with an estimated 60-day wait for new validators to activate. Compared with about 904,000 ETH in early January, the sharp rise shows a growing commitment to locking up ETH for yield and long-term participation in network security.

Azərbaycan Premyer Liqasında 22 tur geridə qalıb.

Futbolpress.az-ın məlumatına görə, çempionatda üç komanda uzun müddətdir, qələbə qazana bilmir.

Bunlar autsayder “Karvan-Yevlax”, “Qəbələ” və “İmişli”dir.

Turnir cədvəlinin sonuncusu “Karvan-Yevlax” bu mövsüm cəmi 1 qələbə qazanıb. Yevlax təmsilçisinin yeganə üç xal qazancı 20 tur əvvəl – II turda “Kəpəz”lə matçda olub – 3:2. Füzuli Məmmədovun rəhbərlik etdiyi kollektiv bu mövsüm cəmi 7 xal toplayıb.

“Qəbələ” son beş oyunda qələbə qazana bilməyib. Mövsümün ikinci dövrəsinə yaxşı başlayan və ardıcıl iki qələbə qazanan “qırmızı-qaralar” daha sonra 3 dəfə məğlub olub, 2 dəfə heç-heçə edib. “Qəbələ” 16 xalla 10-cu sıradadır.

Premyer Liqanın debütantı “İmişli” isə 10 oyundur, qələbəyə həsrətdir. Komanda sonuncu dəfə ötən ilin noyabrında “Neftçi” səfərində üç xala sevinib. Jorj Kaşkilyanın rəhbərlik etdiyi komanda qələbə qazana bilməsə də, heç-heçələr hesabına xallarını artırmağı bacarır. “İmişli” 21 xalla 9-cu sıradadır.

Şahin Cəfərov

Azərbaycan Kubokunda 1/4 final mərhələsinin cavab oyunlarına təyinatlar açıqlanıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu gün baş tutacaq “Qarabağ” – “Şamaxı” oyununu Fərid Hacıyev idarə edəcək.

4 mart

“Qarabağ” – “Şamaxı”
Hakimlər: Fərid Hacıyev, Rəhman İmami, Zöhrab Abbasov, Rəşad Əhmədov
VAR: İnqilab Məmmədov
AVAR: Teymur Teymurov
Hakim-inspektor: Babək Quliyev
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Zaur Hacı-Məhərrəmov
Tofiq Bəhramov adına Respublika Stadionu, 19:00

5 mart (cümə axşamı)

“Kəpəz” – “Turan Tovuz”
Hakimlər: Cavid Cəlilov, Kamran Bayramov, Müslüm Əliyev, İslam Məmmədov
VAR: Kamranbəy Rəhimov
AVAR: Akif Əmirəli
Hakim-inspektor: Rövşən Əhmədov
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Anar Şixəliyev
Yevlax şəhər stadionu, 14:30

“Qəbələ” – “Sabah”
Hakimlər: Rəvan Həmzəzadə, Cəmil Quliyev, Şirmamed Mamedov, Əli Əliyev
VAR: Kamal Umudlu
AVAR: Elvin Bayramov
Hakim-inspektor: Asim Xudiyev
AFFA nümayəndəsi: Yavər Rəhimov
Qəbələ şəhər stadionu, 18:00

“Red Bull” şirkətinin qlobal idman direktoru Yurgen Klopp vəzifəsindən kənarlaşdırıla bilər.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Lequipe” nəşri məlumat yayıb. Xəbərdə rəhbərliyin funksionerin fəaliyyətindən narazı olduğu bildirilib. Kloppun bəzi qərarları son dönəmlərdə rəhbərlikdə çox tənqid edilib.

Alman mütəxəssisin adı bir müddət əvvəl “Real”la hallanırdı.

Klopp 2015-2024-cü illərdə “Liverpul”a rəhbərlik edib. O, 2025-ci ilin yanvarından “Red Bull” şirkətində çalışır.

Fransanın PSJ klubunun U-23 komandasının qapıçısı Bilal Laurendon karyerasını Azərbaycanda davam etdirə bilər.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “Lequipe” nəşri məlumat yayıb. 20 yaşlı qolkiperin mövsümün sonunda azad agent kimi “Sabah”a qoşulacağı bildirilir. Məlumata görə, tərəflər arasında artıq anlaşma əldə edilib.

Laurendon 2019-cu ildən PSJ-nin akademiyasındadır. O, əsas komanda ilə cəmi bir matça çıxıb. Bilal MərakeşinU-20 yığmasının da üzvüdür.

Bu gün Azərbaycan II Liqasında XVI tura yekun vurulacaq.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, sonuncu oyun günündə bir qarşılaşma keçiriləcək. “Dinamo” “Şirvan”la üz-üzə gələcək.

Azərbaycan II Liqası
XVI tur

4 mart

14:30 Dinamo – Şirvan
Binə qəsəbə stadionu

Turun əvvəlki oyunları:

Qaradağ Lökbatan – Şəmkir 4:0
Xankəndi – Araz Saatlı 1:1
Sheki City – Ağdaş 1:4
Ağstafa Gəncləri – Göygöl 1:1

A warning was issued about two vulnerabilities affecting up to 60,000 installations of the Seraphinite Accelerator WordPress plugin.

The post Seraphinite Accelerator WordPress Plugin Vulnerabilities Affect 60K Sites appeared first on Search Engine Journal.

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Brooklyn Nets (15-46, 14th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Miami Heat (33-29, eighth in the Eastern Conference)

Miami; Thursday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Miami hosts Brooklyn looking to prolong its three-game home winning streak.

The Heat are 17-18 in conference play. Miami is third in the league with 54.4 points in the paint led by Jaime Jaquez Jr. averaging 10.2.

The Nets have gone 11-27 against Eastern Conference opponents. Brooklyn is the worst team in the Eastern Conference scoring averaging 106.8 points per game while shooting 44.5%.

The Heat are shooting 46.4% from the field this season, 3.2 percentage points lower than the 49.6% the Nets allow to opponents. The Heat average 106.8 points per game, 9.9 fewer points than the 116.7 the Heat allow.

The teams square off for the third time this season. In the last matchup on March 4 the Heat won 124-98 led by 23 points from Bam Adebayo, while Noah Clowney scored 17 points for the Nets.

TOP PERFORMERS: Adebayo is averaging 18.7 points and 9.9 rebounds for the Heat. Andrew Wiggins is averaging 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds over the last 10 games.

Michael Porter Jr. is scoring 24.1 points per game and averaging 6.9 rebounds for the Nets. Clowney is averaging 2.0 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Heat: 6-4, averaging 119.9 points, 50.5 rebounds, 28.0 assists, 8.9 steals and 4.7 blocks per game while shooting 46.4% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 109.7 points per game.

Nets: 1-9, averaging 104.2 points, 37.7 rebounds, 26.1 assists, 8.5 steals and 4.0 blocks per game while shooting 44.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.9 points.

INJURIES: Heat: Nikola Jovic: day to day (back), Norman Powell: out (groin).

Nets: Egor Demin: day to day (injury management).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Chicago Bulls (25-37, 12th in the Eastern Conference) vs. Phoenix Suns (34-26, seventh in the Western Conference)

Phoenix; Thursday, 9 p.m. EST

BOTTOM LINE: Chicago will attempt to stop its five-game road losing streak when the Bulls visit Phoenix.

The Suns have gone 20-12 at home. Phoenix is sixth in the league allowing just 111.4 points per game while holding opponents to 46.9% shooting.

The Bulls are 9-19 on the road. Chicago is second in the Eastern Conference with 34.6 defensive rebounds per game led by Josh Giddey averaging 7.0.

The Suns are shooting 45.3% from the field this season, 2.2 percentage points lower than the 47.5% the Bulls allow to opponents. The Bulls average 115.7 points per game, 4.3 more than the 111.4 the Suns give up.

TOP PERFORMERS: Mark Williams is averaging 11.6 points and 8.1 rebounds for the Suns. Collin Gillespie is averaging 13.9 points over the last 10 games.

Matas Buzelis is averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks for the Bulls. Collin Sexton is averaging 13.6 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Suns: 4-6, averaging 103.7 points, 44.1 rebounds, 22.6 assists, 8.8 steals and 3.3 blocks per game while shooting 42.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 111.2 points per game.

Bulls: 1-9, averaging 108.9 points, 42.7 rebounds, 25.3 assists, 8.9 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 44.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 118.9 points.

INJURIES: Suns: Jordan Goodwin: out (calf), Dillon Brooks: out (hand).

Bulls: Anfernee Simons: day to day (wrist), Noa Essengue: out for season (shoulder), Jaden Ivey: out (knee), Patrick Williams: day to day (quadriceps), Zach Collins: out for season (toe), Jalen Smith: day to day (calf).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Oklahoma City Thunder (48-15, first in the Western Conference) vs. New York Knicks (40-22, third in the Eastern Conference)

New York; Wednesday, 7 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Thunder -4.5; over/under is 221.5

BOTTOM LINE: Oklahoma City seeks to keep its three-game win streak alive when the Thunder take on New York.

The Knicks have gone 23-8 at home. New York is fourth in the league averaging 14.8 made 3-pointers per game while shooting 37.5% from deep. Jalen Brunson leads the team averaging 2.9 makes while shooting 37.8% from 3-point range.

The Thunder are 23-8 on the road. Oklahoma City is seventh in the Western Conference with 25.5 assists per game led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaging 6.4.

The Knicks make 47.2% of their shots from the field this season, which is 3.6 percentage points higher than the Thunder have allowed to their opponents (43.6%). The Thunder average 13.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.1 fewer makes per game than the Knicks give up.

TOP PERFORMERS: Karl-Anthony Towns is shooting 48.0% and averaging 19.8 points for the Knicks. Brunson is averaging 24.8 points over the last 10 games.

Isaiah Joe is shooting 44.6% and averaging 11.0 points for the Thunder. Jared McCain is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Knicks: 7-3, averaging 115.3 points, 44.5 rebounds, 28.9 assists, 8.8 steals and 4.5 blocks per game while shooting 48.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 103.7 points per game.

Thunder: 8-2, averaging 114.9 points, 45.9 rebounds, 25.5 assists, 9.4 steals and 5.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.5 points.

INJURIES: Knicks: Miles McBride: out (ankle).

Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: day to day (abdominal), Ajay Mitchell: day to day (abdomen), Branden Carlson: day to day (back), Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee), Isaiah Hartenstein: day to day (injury management).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Charlotte Hornets (31-31, ninth in the Eastern Conference) vs. Boston Celtics (41-20, second in the Eastern Conference)

Boston; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Celtics -6.5; over/under is 214.5

BOTTOM LINE: Charlotte is looking to keep its five-game win streak alive when the Hornets take on Boston.

The Celtics are 27-13 against Eastern Conference opponents. Boston is sixth in the NBA with 46.2 rebounds led by Nikola Vucevic averaging 8.8.

The Hornets are 19-21 in conference matchups. Charlotte is 7-8 when it turns the ball over less than its opponents and averages 15.0 turnovers per game.

The Celtics average 15.5 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.7 more made shots on average than the 12.8 per game the Hornets allow. The Hornets average 16.0 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.1 more made shots on average than the 13.9 per game the Celtics allow.

TOP PERFORMERS: Jaylen Brown is averaging 29 points, 7.1 rebounds and five assists for the Celtics. Payton Pritchard is averaging 17 points and 5.8 assists over the past 10 games.

Kon Knueppel is averaging 19.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the Hornets. Brandon Miller is averaging 22.7 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Celtics: 8-2, averaging 109.4 points, 50.7 rebounds, 27.1 assists, 6.1 steals and 6.4 blocks per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 98.5 points per game.

Hornets: 7-3, averaging 117.3 points, 47.8 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 8.5 steals and 4.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.6% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 106.2 points.

INJURIES: Celtics: Jayson Tatum: out (achilles), Neemias Queta: day to day (rest).

Hornets: Coby White: day to day (injury management).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Utah Jazz (18-43, 14th in the Western Conference) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (33-28, sixth in the Eastern Conference)

Philadelphia; Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: 76ers -9.5; over/under is 241.5

BOTTOM LINE: Utah heads into the matchup against Philadelphia as losers of six straight games.

The 76ers are 16-16 on their home court. Philadelphia has a 14-21 record against opponents above .500.

The Jazz are 7-22 on the road. Utah ranks third in the Western Conference scoring 52.1 points per game in the paint led by Lauri Markkanen averaging 11.7.

The 76ers score 116.0 points per game, 9.8 fewer points than the 125.8 the Jazz allow. The Jazz average 12.9 made 3-pointers per game this season, 0.3 fewer makes per game than the 76ers allow.

TOP PERFORMERS: Tyrese Maxey is averaging 29 points, 6.7 assists and two steals for the 76ers. VJ Edgecombe is averaging 15.9 points over the last 10 games.

Isaiah Collier is scoring 11.0 points per game and averaging 2.5 rebounds for the Jazz. Brice Sensabaugh is averaging 15.6 points and 3.4 rebounds over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: 76ers: 4-6, averaging 111.7 points, 42.3 rebounds, 22.0 assists, 10.2 steals and 5.4 blocks per game while shooting 44.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 120.3 points per game.

Jazz: 2-8, averaging 115.8 points, 44.6 rebounds, 26.7 assists, 11.3 steals and 3.9 blocks per game while shooting 45.9% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 120.0 points.

INJURIES: 76ers: Johni Broome: out (knee), Joel Embiid: out (oblique), VJ Edgecombe: day to day (back), Kelly Oubre Jr.: day to day (illness).

Jazz: Lauri Markkanen: out (ankle), Vince Williams Jr.: out for season (acl), Walker Kessler: out for season (shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic: out for season (nose), Jaren Jackson Jr.: out for season (knee).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

Portland Trail Blazers (29-33, 10th in the Western Conference) vs. Memphis Grizzlies (23-37, 11th in the Western Conference)

Memphis, Tennessee; Wednesday, 8 p.m. EST

BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Trail Blazers -6.5; over/under is 237.5

BOTTOM LINE: Deni Avdija and the Portland Trail Blazers take on Cam Spencer and the Memphis Grizzlies in Western Conference action.

The Grizzlies are 18-24 against Western Conference opponents. Memphis has a 2-4 record in one-possession games.

The Trail Blazers are 22-18 in Western Conference play. Portland gives up 118.4 points to opponents and has been outscored by 3.2 points per game.

The Grizzlies are shooting 46.2% from the field this season, 1.4 percentage points lower than the 47.6% the Trail Blazers allow to opponents. The Trail Blazers average 115.2 points per game, 2.5 fewer than the 117.7 the Grizzlies allow to opponents.

The two teams match up for the fourth time this season. The Trail Blazers defeated the Grizzlies 122-115 in their last matchup on Feb. 8. Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers with 29 points, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper led the Grizzlies with 25 points.

TOP PERFORMERS: Spencer is shooting 47.7% and averaging 11.4 points for the Grizzlies. Jaylen Wells is averaging 1.8 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

Avdija is averaging 24.4 points, seven rebounds and 6.6 assists for the Trail Blazers. Jrue Holiday is averaging 19.3 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Grizzlies: 3-7, averaging 117.2 points, 36.9 rebounds, 28.6 assists, 12.6 steals and 5.4 blocks per game while shooting 48.8% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.2 points per game.

Trail Blazers: 5-5, averaging 113.2 points, 45.0 rebounds, 26.2 assists, 7.7 steals and 6.2 blocks per game while shooting 45.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 119.9 points.

INJURIES: Grizzlies: Santi Aldama: day to day (injury management), Taj Gibson: day to day (coach decision), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: out for season (finger), Ja Morant: out (elbow), Zach Edey: out for season (ankle), Brandon Clarke: out (calf).

Trail Blazers: Kris Murray: day to day (illness), Deni Avdija: day to day (back), Shaedon Sharpe: out (calf), Damian Lillard: out for season (achilles).

___

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar.

What channel is Devils vs. Leafs on today? Time, TV schedule, live stream to watch Wednesday NHL game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

In a matchup where the desperation of the trade deadline meets the urgency of a collapsing playoff race, the Toronto Maple Leafs travel to the Prudential Center tomorrow night to face the New Jersey Devils.

With the March 6 deadline now looming, both clubs find themselves on the outside of the Eastern Conference playoff picture, separated by just three points. For Toronto, coming off a frustrating shootout loss to the Flyers, this is a final opportunity to prove they are buyers rather than sellers. For Sheldon Keefe’s Devils, who have struggled to find consistency all season, it’s a must-win at home to avoid a total teardown before Friday’s 3 p.m. ET cutoff.

The storylines on the ice are just as volatile as the rumors off it. All eyes will be on Brandon Carlo, whose return to the lineup for Toronto comes amid heavy speculation that the Leafs are looking to move him to recoup assets. Meanwhile, the Devils will lean on Jack Hughes to ignite an offense that has been uncharacteristically quiet during their recent slide.

With both front offices reportedly active on the phones, tomorrow’s result could very well determine which of these rosters stays intact and which is dismantled by the time they hit the ice again on Saturday.

Here's everything you need to know about the game, from TV to streaming options.

What channel is Leafs vs. Devils on tonight?

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream:ESPN App

Maple Leafs vs. Devils will not air on a national TV channel. Hockey fans can stream the game on the ESPN App.

Catch all your favorite hockey action with the ESPN App. Just download the enhanced ESPN app, sign in with your account, and you're set to stream live out-of-market NHL games, originals, and more —all in one place. 

Leafs vs. Devils start time

• Date: Wednesday, Mar. 4
• Time: 7 p.m. ET

Maple Leafs vs. Canadiens will start at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The game will be played at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Leafs vs. Devils radio station

• Radio station:SiriusXM channel 91

Fans can listen to the Maple Leafs vs. Devils broadcast live on SiriusXM channel 91.

New subscribers can listen to SiriusXM for free for four months. Listen to live NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL games, plus NASCAR, college sports and more. Stay updated with all the news and get all the analysis on multiple sport-specific channels.

Leafs schedule 2025-26

Here are the next five games on Toronto's 2025-26 schedule:

Devils schedule 2025-26

Here are the next five games on New Jersey's 2025-26 schedule:

Related Links

• Latest NHL news and rumors
• Full NHL schedule, scores for 2025-26
• How to bet on the NHL

Ranking the NFL’s best free agent RBs available in 2026, from Kenneth Walker III to Aaron Jones originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The free-agent running back class in 2026 won't come close to having the same special impact as those stars signed in 2024.

Two years later, with Breece Hall franchise-tagged by the Jets, there's not much in the way of feature backs, but some good complementary and backup options available.

Here's looking at the veteran runners (and receivers) who can help teams most on the open market:

FREE AGENCY: Ranking top 100 free agents, best players available by position

NFL free agent RB rankings 2026

1. Kenneth Walker III, Seahawks (age: 25)

Walker is coming off his dominant Super Bowl 60 MVP performance vs. the Patriots. He is a power runner with extra juice to the outside and is better off staying as the early-down option, with limited touches give a few nicks for receiving and pass protection.

2. Travis Etienne Jr., Jaguars (age: 27)

Etienne looks ready to sign elsewhere as the team can move on fine with second-year back Bhayshul Tuten and others in Liam Coen's offense. The Chiefs should covet his versatility as they try to clean up their backfield and can no longer pursue Hall.

3. Tyler Allgeier, Falcons (age: 25)

Allgeier should have plenty of appeal as a reliable all-around power back with his previous work behind Bijan Robinson. He would fit best as a goal-line type change of pace, like he was in Atlanta.

MORE: Ranking the top QBs in 2026 free agency

4. Kenneth Gainwell, Steelers (age: 26)

Gainwell was a valuable, versatile Eagle before having some explosive work to complement Jaylen Warren in Pittsburgh. He might get a chance to return late in the process.

5. Rico Dowdle, Panthers (age: 27)

Dowdle flashed big-game ability in Carolina but couldn't get the key workload over Chuba Hubbard in the end. He does a little of everything well as a strong backup, like he was for a long time in Dallas.

6. Brian Robinson Jr., 49ers (age: 26)

Robinson rebounded from his time in Washington to one of Christian McCaffrey's strongest backups. He can find more power and pop in any Kyle Shanahan adjacent zone-blocking offense.

7. JK Dobbins, Broncos (age: 27)

Dobbins can be dynamic and red zone productive when on the field, but durability issues have lingered throughout his whole career in Baltimore and Denver. Whoever signs him must have a solid No. 2 option.

MORE:Sporting News' 2-round mock draft

8. Rachaad White, Buccaneers (age: 27)

White went from a receiving option in the Tom Brady era with limited running pop to someone now just as valuable in the rushing attack. He got overtaken by Bucky Irving with the Bucs, but it would be intriguing in a more even committee.

9. Najee Harris, Chargers (age: 27)

Harris was off to a promising start with his second team after leaving Pittsburgh but was quickly derailed by a torn Achilles. He is still a solid power running with good receiving skills, who might be a good fit replacing David Montgomery in Detroit.

MORE:Top 140 big board of top prospects in 2026

10. Aaron Jones, Vikings (age: 31)

Until the Cardinals put James Conner on the market, Jones would be the older, reliable available with Minnesota planning to release him. He would work well again with a young back, much like Dobbins did with R.J. Harvey and did with Omarion Hampton.

Barcelona could not overcome the four-goal deficit from the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but did put in a strong performance.

Joan Garcia – 7

The honest truth is that he had little to do, but made one smart save down to his left. Was relatively sharp out of his goal.

Jules Kounde – N/A

Off after 11 minutes with injury, highly unfortunate for Kounde, who had started well. Will miss their Champions League tie against Newcastle United.

Pau Cubarsi – 9

Cubarsi has struggled this season, but this was his best performance in 18 months. Absolutely brilliant for a Barcelona that defended aggressively, suffocating first Julian Alvarez and then Alexander Sorloth, and had stunning last-man challenge on Alex Baena that kept Barcelona live. Most impressive was his anticipation and his decision-making, putting his foot in where necessary.

Image via FC Barcelona

Gerard Martin – 6.5

Several hasty passes and crosses gave the ball away on multiple occasions in the first half. Largely solid going the other way, had a good chance late on to hit the target.

Joao Cancelo – 8

Switched to right-back after Kounde’s injury early on. Strong in the challenge, and neat with his play, Cancelo looked at home. Most of Barcelona’s attacking play came through him and Lamine Yamal, and he generated plenty of danger. Picked up a nice assist for Bernal too.

Marc Bernal – 8.5

This was the first big game that Marc Bernal started, and he finished with medals on his lapel, even if Barcelona won’t be in Seville. Quite apart from his brace, both goals well taken, Bernal was crucial in being able to put the clamps on Atletico Madrid, with Koke and Johnny Cardoso struggling to find clean passes.

Pedri – 9

Another masterclass from Pedri. Basically couldn’t move after the 75th minute, and somehow still made two last-man tackles on Alexander Sorloth. If Barcelona had a chance in this one though, it was because of Pedri, who denatured Atletico’s pressing efforts, and found ways to get Lamine Yamal the ball in better positions. Won the penalty too.

Lamine Yamal – 9

Lamine Yamal played like he had 99% faith. Time and again he demanded the ball, time and again he beat Matteo Ruggeri, Ademola Lookman and David Hancko. The first goal comes from his brilliant assist, the second he was involved in, and if Barcelona were to find a fourth, it was coming from him. In this form, it’s almost impossible to contain him.

Fermin Lopez – 5.5

A strangely mute performance from Fermin, who was withdrawn for the closing stages. The couple of shooting opportunities he did have, he could not connect with properly, and generally just didn’t make his presence felt, which he almost always does.

Raphinha – 7

It was a poor first half, where he wasted several good positions, but he improved after the penalty. Still, even in the second half, he struggled to find spaces or shooting opportunities. That said, he remained a motor behind Barcelona’s pressure.

Image via Enric Fontcuberta / EFE

Ferran Torres – 4.5

A rough and rusty night for Ferran, who could complain little when he was taken off first. Had three half-chances in the first half, none of which he should have scored, but you would expect better from at least one. Was involved in the play for the penalty, but that stood out precisely because he was so absent from the build-up.

Substitutes

Alejandro Balde – 6.5

Forced on early for Kounde. Defended relatively well for an hour before being forced off in tears, but didn’t add much either.

Dani Olmo – 5

On for Fermin after 64 minutes, Olmo was also incapable of finding fissures in the Atletico midfield. Struggled to give his side the energy they needed in the final stages too.

Marcus Rashford – 6.5

Was a little starved of service on the left, with no supply line close to him, but did well when he got the ball, winning a number of corners.

Ronald Araujo – 5

Sent on up front for the final 20 minutes, a role that is not necessarily his, so it is hard to be too critical. Yet the Atletico defence were completely unfazed by his presence in the box, and he was caught offside on a couple of occasions.

No. 19 Miami secured its first Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship in 21 years on Tuesday.

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Miami claimed its 22^nd all-time MAC regular season title by beating Toledo, 74-72, in front of a sellout crowd at Millett Hall.

Peter Suder led four RedHawks in double figures with 19 points. Antwone Woolfolk scored 14 while Brant Byers finished with 13 points. Luke Skaljac had 11 points.

Miami improved to 30-0 overall and 17-0 in the MAC. They remain the nation’s only unbeaten team in Division I men’s basketball.

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The Red and White jumped out to an 11-2 lead to start the game. They led by as many as 13 points, 31-18, thanks to Skaljac’s three-pointer with 7:43 left in the first half.

But the Rockets responded with a 12-0 run, cutting the deficit to 31-30. Suder closed the first half with a layup to put Miami ahead, 40-35, at the break.

The RedHawks built a second-half lead, 54-45, with 12:32 remaining. But Toledo went on an 11-2 run to cut the deficit to 56-55 with 9:32 left.

Eian Elmer buried a three-pointer to end a four-minute scoring drought as Miami led, 59-55.

The Rockets trailed, 74-72, and had a chance to win the game. But Skaljac forced a turnover with one-tenth of a second left.

With the win, the RedHawks will be the No. 1 seed in the upcoming MAC Tournament in Cleveland.

Miami concludes the regular season at Ohio in Athens in the Battle of the Bricks.

Tip-off is at 9 p.m.

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Aston Villa boss Unai Emery believes playing at Villa Park will be an advantage ahead of Wednesday night’s game against Chelsea.

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The Blues travel to the Midlands in what is a huge game in the race for Champions League football, and a win would see them close the gap to Villa in fourth to three points.

Chelsea currently sit sixth, three points behind Liverpool, although they’ve played a game less than the Champions, whilst they’re six points behind both Villa and Manchester United in third and fourth.

Unai Emery on why he’s confident for Chelsea game

Chelsea aren’t on the best run of form heading into the game, with defeat against Arsenal on Sunday making it two points from their last three games.

Villa likewise are struggling and lost to bottom club Wolves on Friday night, but the Blues know anything other than a win will be another blow to their hopes of finishing in the top five.

Villa beat Chelsea 2-1 at Stamford Bridge earlier in the season. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)

Chelsea are without the suspended Pedro Neto, whilst Estevao is still sidelined, although there’s a chance Marc Cucurella could return. 

Villa won the reverse fixture 2-1 at Stamford Bridge, and Emery is confident home advantage will help his side on Wednesday.

“Our objective is to be in Europe, and we are in. Even not in good form, we are in,” he told Aston Villa’s website.

“And, of course, we are every day trying to recover our good form and our confidence, and tomorrow, Chelsea is our opponent, and, of course, it’s a tough match.

“In Villa Park, we are feeling, overall, really comfortable, playing, showing our form, consistency, except the last matches as we played.

“And, of course, we want to recover our good form at home. We were winning a lot of matches in a row, and we were feeling so, so strong.”

An opportunity for Alejandro Garnacho

With Pedro Neto suspended and both Jamie Gittens and Estevao injured, there’s potentially a huge opportunity for Alejandro Garnacho.

More Stories / Latest News

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4th Mar 2026, 06:30am

The Argentine hasn’t featured much under Liam Rosenior, but looked bright when he came off the bench against Arsenal.

Given he’s the only winger available on Wednesday, it’s likely Garnacho will start, and he’s got a huge opportunity to show what he can do, and stake a claim for more regular minutes.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

George Russell is exuding a quiet sense of confidence as he prepares for the start of what could be a defining year for him in Formula 1.

The Mercedes driver is neither playing down the tag of pre-season championship favourite, nor leaning into it.

It feels more like it's something that changes nothing, has no relevance to the job in hand, which is being the best he can be.

Russell has been asked about it a number of times these past few weeks leading up to the Australian Grand Prix. When he is, he addresses it briefly, sometimes tangentially, and moves on.

A comment about Mercedes having "a lot of potential", for example, was quickly followed by concerns about his car's ability to get off the line, compared with the Ferrari's rocket-ship starts, and about some reliability issues that hit his team in the pre-season testing in Bahrain.

"It does not change my approach one single bit," Russell says. "I'm working so hard with the team, everybody here has been working flat out to really maximise this new set of regulations and I'm honestly just so excited by the challenge.

"Because it is a huge challenge adapting to these new cars, how the energy management works, the re-harvesting of the batteries, getting your head around the boost system, the overtake modes, the active aero.

"There's a lot of things we need to learn very quickly, but I feel I can take advantage from that and I feel confident with myself and my team."

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The Briton, who turned 28 last month, has been among the most accepting of the new rules founded in engines with a 50-50 split between internal combustion and electrical power. His mindset seems both positive and fully focused on what's to come.

Russell is entering his eighth F1 season, and his fifth with Mercedes, and has proved himself without any question to be one of the elite in his sport.

Three seasons with Williams from 2019-21, with team-mates of questionable quality, made it difficult to judge his absolute potential, but some stand-out qualifying performances left little real doubt.

Putting a Williams - one of the slowest cars in the field at the time - second on the grid at Spa-Francorchamps in the wet in 2021 has to stand as one of the all-time great qualifying laps, for example.

When Russell joined Mercedes in 2022, his expectation was that he would become a regular winner and championship contender immediately - the team had just become constructors' champions for a record eighth consecutive time.

But it was Russell's bad luck to join Mercedes just as they made a hash of the new regulations that were introduced in 2022. In four seasons, they never really got on top of them to have a consistently competitive car. There were mere flashes of pace, never fully understood.

Russell had to be satisfied with proving himself against his team-mate. There was at least considerable satisfaction to be gained from that, given that he spent his first three seasons at Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton, the most successful F1 driver of all time.

Over their three seasons together, Russell came out on top in two. He has won five races in the past four years, and last season was the only driver to win apart from the three title contenders, McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, and Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

With Verstappen universally acknowledged as the standard to whom all others have to aspire, Russell is one of a small elite group of drivers who stand out from the rest. He's also become a leader among the driver group, through his role as one of three directors of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association.

"It's always nice if your driver is the favourite for the bookmakers and I think he deserves it because he's one of the best," team principal Toto Wolff says.

"He's shown us where the performance of the car is and it's been overall more than great to us. George has been in Formula 1 a long time. He's a benchmark."

For seven years now, Russell has been a driver just waiting for the right car, and this year he might have it. This year's new rules have given Mercedes a chance for a reset, and the indication so far is that they have made a much better job of it than last time around.

The feeling in the paddock leaving testing last month is that Mercedes and Ferrari were the teams in the best shape, with Red Bull and McLaren perhaps a little behind in a relatively closely matched top four that is more than a second a lap clear of everyone else.

Russell is confident enough in Mercedes' potential to say that he "thinks we've delivered a very strong car" but he's wary of the performance of Red Bull's new engine.

Even so, his sights are set high. "I do want to go head-to-head with Max," he says. "and obviously Lando had a great season last year."

As things stand, before Melbourne gives the first glimpse of a real competitive order, Russell's obvious potential rivals this year are Verstappen, Norris, Piastri and the two Ferrari drivers, Charles Leclerc and Hamilton, if the seven-time champion can rediscover the mojo he appeared to have lost last year, and to some extent in 2024.

Of Russell's 19-year-old team-mate Kimi Antonelli, who is going into his second season after an up-and-down debut in 2025, Wolff says: "I'm absolutely certain it will be a good year for him, but I don't think we should expect him to be like George all the time."

Russell is good friends with world champion Norris and Leclerc. The three came up through the junior ranks together and all believe that the intense competition they gave each other, along with Williams' Alex Albon, was an important factor in them all reaching F1, as it forced each to keep raising their own standards to keep up with the others.

But it's perhaps a fight with Verstappen that whets the appetite most.

Russell and Verstappen rub along well enough on a surface level, quite happy to chat as and when they end up in news conferences together. But the tension between them is not in doubt.

They had an almighty falling out at the end of the 2024 season, when Verstappen said he'd "lost all respect" for Russell after the Qatar Grand Prix, and accused him of being instrumental in him getting a one-place grid penalty for that race.

Russell responded by saying Verstappen "cannot deal with adversity" and that "people have been bullied by Max for years".

Equally, would Verstappen have responded as he did, if it had been another driver involved in the series of incidents which led to the red-mist moment in which the Dutchman appeared to deliberately drive into Russell's car in Spain last year?

Verstappen has admitted his reaction that day was "not good". But there seems little doubt that a title fight between these two would not be as relatively harmonious as was last year's between Norris, Piastri and Verstappen.

For now, though, that's all speculation and Russell is focusing only on what he can control, while pondering the potential threat of Ferrari and Red Bull.

"The car's feeling good," he said on the final day of pre-season testing. "The new power-units are feeling fast and we're making improvements every single day.

"The thing that's going to trip you up is going to be that tallest hurdle," he says. "And that's what we're trying to get our heads around right now. We're stumbling on some at the moment."

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When it was announced this past Friday that Oleksandr Usyk will defend his WBC heavyweight title against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at Egypt's Pyramids of Giza, the news came as a shock to many. Although Verhoeven was heavily linked to a Feb. 14 bout with Anthony Joshua, the shift to fighting boxing's pound-for-pound No. 1 in Verhoeven's second pro boxing match was unexpected.

Verhoeven detailed to Uncrowned's "The Ariel Helwani Show" on Tuesday his journey from leaving GLORY Kickboxing this past November to landing a surprise fight with the unified heavyweight champ.

"I just wanted to do big stuff that hasn't been done before," Verhoeven said of his mindset after leaving GLORY. "So either make a crazy crossover to the UFC or a big crossover fight in boxing or whatever — I just wanted to see all options. So that's where the decision came from. I think we did it all within GLORY."

Verhoeven said he discussed a major boxing match for the first time when he was at one of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury fights in Saudi Arabia in 2024 with world-renowned actor Jason Statham.

"My good friend Jason Statham was [at Usyk vs. Fury]," Verhoeven said. "So we were talking and he said, 'Oh yeah, man, [boxing] is the place to be. This is where you got to be.' He said, 'Let's do it.' So I think he slowly introduced me there.

"It was about a year later, the [Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford fight this past September] was coming up, and I saw Jason was there, so I texted [him], 'Yo bro, you at the fight? Have fun.' He said he was crazy excited and couldn't wait for it. So I said, 'Yo, we talked about it. We should do something [in boxing].' He said, 'Yep, I'm going to bring it up.'"

Statham proposed the idea of a major boxing match involving Verhoeven to Saudi Arabian fight financier Turki Alalshikh, who was receptive to the idea and said there would be further communication with Verhoeven's team.

"They said, 'When you come in, you're a champion, so you have to face somebody with a name. And you have to promise us you're not going to disappoint. You're not going to be out in one round,'" Verhoeven recalled. "I said, 'What do you mean? I've been boxing for the last 15 years on the highest level. I got this.'"

Verhoeven was asked by Alalshikh's team who he wanted to face in his first boxing match in 12 years — he knocked out Janos Finfera (then 0-5) in 2014 — and he informed them he'd be open to fighting anybody. With former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua needing a comeback fight of sorts after more than a year out of the ring, surgery, and just a Jake Paul bout to his name since, Joshua was the name put forward.

Joshua vs. Verhoeven, however, did not take place due to the unfortunate events that occurred outside of the ring late last year.

"I finished [shooting a] movie at the beginning of December," Verhoeven said. "Went straight into camp and worked out through the whole of December. I had already planned a training camp in Spain for the whole month of January because the fight [with Joshua] was going to be February 14. Then the accident happened."

Joshua was involved in a fatal car crash in December that devastatingly took the lives of two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. The crash left "AJ" with physical and emotional injuries that ruled out a fight for him in 2026's first quarter.

Verhoeven, however, continued to train and stay ready, in the hopes of eventually landing a big name.

"We got on the phone and heard the fight might happen, but 'AJ' needs some time to recover physically and mentally. Probably somewhere in March, we would hear more about it," Verhoeven said. "OK, no worries. Totally understand and totally respect the situation. I was still in Spain. We came to the gym and my boxing trainer, Peter Fury [the uncle of Tyson Fury], said, 'Hey, I was thinking — what about fighting Oleksandr Usyk?'"

Verhoeven was a fan of Fury's suggestion and proposed the idea to Alalshikh's team as an undisputed boxing champion vs. undisputed kickboxing champion type matchup. 

"They said one thing: 'I love it. Let's do it.'"

Alalshikh's team managed to finalize the bout for May 23, and to add more intrigue to the contest, it landed at the Pyramids of Giza, which is the only remaining of the seven ancient wonders of the world.

Verhoeven will enter the fight with Usyk as a sizable underdog, but he cautioned fans against ruling out his chances, explaining that he has been training in boxing with Peter Fury for 15 years and was even a sparring partner for Tyson Fury when Tyson used his uncle as a coach more than a decade ago.

Verhoeven told Uncrowned that he also had discussions with the UFC and had received an offer to fight Derrick Lewis on the first Paramount+ card, UFC 324. Verhoeven ultimately decided against it because the financial elements of the offer to face Joshua — and then Usyk — were substantially better.

With a recent three-game losing streak now in their rearview mirror, the Los Angeles Lakers looked to make it three victories in a row when they hosted the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday. The Pelicans came into this matchup with a dismal 19-43 record, but they had won five of their last eight games, and they proved to be a pesky opponent on this night.

After trailing by six early, the Lakers built a decent lead in the second quarter thanks to 11 unanswered points, but a flurry of turnovers resulted in them losing that lead and trailing by two heading into the fourth quarter. They then asserted themselves with a 14-0 run in the final period, and that was enough for them to end up with a 110-101 win, as they continued to do a fantastic job of winning games that have been competitive in the final five minutes.

This wasn't exactly a pretty offensive outing for either team. Both squads had a lot of trouble hitting from long distance, and they combined for 41 turnovers. But Los Angeles capitalized on the Pelicans' 22 turnovers by logging 28 fast-break points, and it had seven more rebounds and seven more free throw attempts.

The team now has a 37-24 record and is still in sixth place in the Western Conference, and it is half a game behind the fifth-place Denver Nuggets. It will face the Nuggets in Colorado on Thursday.

Marcus Smart: B-plus

Smart was very active defensively and aggressively went after the ball on that end of the floor, which resulted in him getting four steals and three blocks. Offensively, he scored 10 points on 3-of-9 from the field and 2-of-6 from 3-point range, and he hit a big trey with 1:34 left in the fourth quarter to put L.A. up by seven points.

When Smart took the ball away on defense, he helped create transition opportunities, which allowed him to register seven assists, and he also chipped in three rebounds and had no turnovers in 30 minutes.

Deandre Ayton: B/B-plus

Ayton blew a number of easy opportunities near the rim in this game early on when he either got his shots blocked or the ball knocked away from him. But he kept his head in the game and ended up scoring 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting from the field. In the last few games, the Lakers have been doing a better job of getting him the ball in scoring position early.

He also grabbed eight rebounds, blocked two shots and had one assist in 25 minutes.

Austin Reaves: D

Reaves, for much of this game, simply couldn't get his shots to fall. He missed each of his first eight shot attempts, and he didn't make his first field goal until the 4:11 mark of the third quarter. The guard also committed five turnovers, as the Pelicans cut off his driving angles to the basket and made him play in congested quarters.

He did, however, make four of his last six shot attempts, and he hit back-to-back treys during L.A.'s 14-0 fourth-quarter run. Reaves ended up with 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks in 37 minutes.

He has now gone six straight games without reaching the 20-point mark after coming into this game averaging 24.1 points a game on the season.

LeBron James: B-plus

James was energetic in this game, and he made a noticeable impact whenever he asserted himself. He single-handedly accounted for an 11-0 Lakers run early in the second quarter by scoring the Lakers' first nine points of the period and then throwing an alley-oop pass to Ayton for a dunk to help them establish a lead.

After scoring 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting in the first half, James was quiet afterward. But he finished with 21 points on 8-of-12 from the field, seven rebounds, seven assists and two blocks, although he did commit five turnovers.

Luka Doncic: B-plus

Doncic turned in a solid game, even though he was a little less efficient than he usually is. He shot 10-of-22 overall and 3-of-10 from downtown to score 27 points, and he also helped out with 10 rebounds, seven assists and one block. But he also had seven turnovers. Turnovers have been a problem for him, although this was the first time in nearly a month he had at least four turnovers in one contest.

Jaxson Hayes: B-plus

Hayes got 23 minutes of playing time in this game, and he responded with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting, six rebounds, two blocks and one assist.

Luke Kennard: B-plus

Kennard continued to be a spark plug offensively off the bench with nine points on 3-of-5 overall shooting and 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, plus two rebounds and one assist in 21 minutes.

Jake LaRavia: C

This was another quiet game for LaRavia, and he didn't get as much playing time as he usually does. He was on the court for 14 minutes, and he scored five points on 2-of-4 shooting, to go along with two rebounds, two assists and one steal.

Rui Hachimura: D-minus

Hachimura has been struggling to hit his shots since the All-Star break. He missed all four of his attempts on Tuesday, and he ended up with two points and two rebounds in 19 minutes.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers player grades: L.A. pushes past Pelicans for third straight win

Gary Neville has been speaking about what Chelsea need to add to their team – and he’s got some pretty clear ideas.

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Gary Neville watched Chelsea’s game against Arsenal for Sky Sports on Sunday, and his big picture conclusions about Chelsea after the game were pretty interesting.

After another frustrating game for the Blues where they had moments of showing their potential, but were ultimately let down by their immaturity, Neville had a pretty clear idea of what can improve.

Neville demands Chelsea add a mature striker as well as experience at the back

Gary Neville speaks on his podcast.

“They have to keep players fit but they need a top-class goalkeeper, a top-class centre-back with experience and a top-class centre-forward to accompany Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, not to replace them,” Neville said on his podcast post-game.

“[They should] have three strikers – Joao Pedro is very good, Delap who is young with potential – and then bring someone in. I know that’s difficult – these players are not there, but they need a centre-forward with experience.

“I’m not talking about a 33-year-old striker but someone who is 27 or 28 and the same at the back, a player who has real presence who can give them some solidity.

“I’m going to talk about the goalkeeper as well because Robert Sanchez invites problems, every time I watch him, my heart is in my mouth. He flaps at the Arsenal goal, so for me, Chelsea are three players short, they need players in those positions.

In other news…

Neville had already pointed out that Chelsea were a pretty unique team who made him feel a mix of emotions unlike most teams he had seen before.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

Japan has always been a stage for the world’s finest martial artists. On April 29, two of the country’s greatest warriors will carry the flag at ONE Samurai 1.

The inaugural event at Tokyo’s Ariake Arena marks the beginning of a new monthly series dedicated to showcasing Japan’s elite on the global stage. 

Leading the charge is Takeru “Natural Born Krusher” Segawa, who steps into the main event knowing it will be his last. The three-division K-1 Champion faces Thai destroyer Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon in a rematch for the ONE Interim Flyweight Kickboxing World Title.

Elsewhere on the card, ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu defends his throne against dangerous Uzbek Avazbek “Ninzya” Kholmirzaev.

Ahead of the biggest night of their careers, both Japanese warriors reflected on what this historic occasion means to them.

Takeru Determined To End Career On His Own Terms

After nearly two decades of giving everything to the sport, Takeru Segawa is finally ready to walk away — but not without one final statement.

For a fighter who reshaped what was possible in kickboxing, choosing how to exit matters as much as the journey itself. And there was only one opponent worthy of a final act.

Leaving without facing Rodtang one more time was never an option. When the former ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion agreed to the rematch, Takeru’s farewell finally had its ending.

“Natural Born Krusher” said:

“I’m incredibly happy to be able to fight Rodtang again in my final professional bout. Ever since before I joined ONE, all I’ve ever thought about was defeating Rodtang.”

That obsession nearly consumed him whole. At ONE 172 last March, Rodtang ended their first encounter in just 80 seconds — a single left hook that stopped the fight before it could truly begin.

The shock of that night sent the Japanese legend spiraling toward retirement, questioning everything he had built.

But the Bushido spirit does not break. Takeru channeled that pain into an emphatic second-round TKO of Denis “The Bosnian Menace” Puric at ONE 173, earning him a US$50,000 performance bonus.

Now, the 34-year-old sees every scar as part of a larger design:

“Looking back, I believe that even my previous loss was all part of the story, leading to this retirement fight where I turn everything around and claim the belt.”

That perspective defines what makes Takeru extraordinary. Throughout a career built on discipline, sacrifice, and an unbreakable will, he has always carried Japan’s hopes on his shoulders without flinching.

For Takeru, this final fight is not just about a ONE World Title. It’s about leaving the sport with his legacy intact — proof that a true champion never stops fighting, no matter the odds.

The Team Vasileus standout vowed:

“I will prove once and for all that Takeru is at the center of the combat sports world. I’m going to win this.”

Wakamatsu Promises To Repay Faithful Fans In Second Title Defense

Few champions in ONE Championship have earned their throne the hard way quite like Yuya Wakamatsu.

Even after realizing his lifelong dream of capturing the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title, the doubters lingered. He had stumbled at the highest level before, and some wondered whether history might repeat itself.

Wakamatsu silenced every last one of them at ONE 173, denying ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio two-division glory with an emphatic second-round TKO.

Now a new challenge stands before him. Avazbek Kholmirzaev has torn through the flyweight division with a ferocity that demands respect, which Wakamatsu is not taking lightly.

The Kagoshima native said:

“He is an extremely aggressive fighter with a high level of skill across striking, takedowns, and submissions. In particular, his right leg kicks are very dangerous.”

Respect for the opponent, however, has not dulled his hunger. Behind closed doors, Wakamatsu has worked tirelessly to evolve beyond the explosive finisher the world already knows. 

Every aspect of his game has been refined, every weakness addressed. He arrives at ONE Samurai 1 as a complete martial artist.

The TRIBE Tokyo MMA affiliate shared: 

“I want to give everything I have and show the skills and mental strength I have built up over the years at ONE Samurai 1. I am confident that fans will see a new side of Yuya Wakamatsu — and honestly, I can’t wait to see what kind of fight I can put on myself.”

Yet for Wakamatsu, the stakes extend beyond the belt. 

The roar of a hometown crowd has fueled him before. He knows that energy comes with responsibility — to the fans who never stopped believing during his long road to the top.

The flyweight MMA king concluded: 

“Thank you so much for always supporting me. I will show you everything I’ve got in this fight — please look forward to it!”

Source

Wales' Hockey World Cup qualifying hopes hang by a thread after a 5-0 defeat by France in Santiago, Chile.

Victor Charlet opened the scoring for the French in the second quarter with a penalty stroke to take a 1-0 half-time lead.

Benjamin Marque scored with a powerful reverse stick shot past Toby Reynolds-Cotterill from a tight angle to double the French lead in the third quarter.

Charlet added his second goal four minutes later from a penalty corner to take a commanding lead into the final quarter.

Charlet completed his hat-trick with another penalty corner and Marque grabbed his second to compound Wales' misery.

Wales have one point after two games in their pool after a 2-2 draw with hosts Chile on Sunday.

Wales play their final pool game against 20th ranked Scotland on Wednesday (21:00 GMT) knowing they will need to win to have any chance of making it through to the semi-finals of qualifying.

Danny Newcombe's side are seeking World Cup qualification for just the second time in their history, having made their tournament debut in 2023 in India.

Scotland and Chile drew 2-2 in their game in Pool A on Tuesday.

• Wales have 'opportunity to do something special'
• Hockey World Cup qualifiers - all you need to know
• Wales teams eye Hockey World Cup qualifiers

FIRST HALF ANALYSIS:

UCLA came out on fire to start this one, while Nebraska couldn’t hit water if it fell out of a boat in the middle of the ocean. The Bruins took an immediate double-digit lead, as they hit 6 of their first 8 field goal attempts. The Huskers would commit 3 turnovers in the opening 2 minutes. Nebraska would couple that with a 3:30 scoring drought, all the while UCLA would still be shooting over 70% from the floor in the opening 8 minutes.

Cale Jacobsen tried to spark Nebraska back into this, but no one would come along with him, as the Huskers built a replica of Pauley Pavilion from distance. Trent Perry and Xavier Booker would carry UCLA, as leading scorer Tyler Bilodeau would be held scoreless. It wouldn’t matter, as the Bruins continued to shoot well, combined with Nebraska being colder than an ex-mother-in-law’s hug. UCLA took an incredibly comfortable 37-24 lead into the break.

FIRST HALF STATS:

Nebraska shot 9-29 for 31% from the floor. They went a wretched 2-16 for 13% from deep and 4-6 for 67% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 18 rebounds, 6 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 7 turnovers to just 5 assists.

The Huskers were led by Cale Jacobsen, who had 6 points off the bench. 5 different Huskers had 3 rebounds each. Jamarques Lawrence had 2 assists.

UCLA shot 15-30 for 50% from the floor. They went 5-14 for 36% from deep and 2-4 for 50% from the free-throw line. The Bruins collected 20 rebounds, 4 of which were offensive. UCLA had 6 assists to 5 turnovers. They had 9 second chance points.

The Bruins were led by Trent Perry, who had 9 points. 4 different Bruins had 3 rebounds each. Perry and Donovan Dent had 2 assists each.

SECOND HALF ANALYSIS:

If Husker fans were looking for the team that plays incredibly well in the second half, they never found it. Every time Nebraska tried to climb back into this one, they shot themselves in the foot with a turnover or couldn’t get a stop. Case in point, Nebraska hit 7 straight field goals at one point but only reduced the deficit by 2. The closest Nebraska got was 10 points, but UCLA hit a basket, Jamarques Lawrence was called for a foul underneath, and UCLA then hit a 3, culminating a 5-point possession.

The lead went up to 15 and stayed there for quite a while. Nebraska had hope when it reached the bonus by the under 8 timeout, but they decided it was better to continue to brick everything instead of scoring points. UCLA ran out the clock as comfortably as Usain Bolt running the hundred-meter dash against me.

FINAL STATS AND THOUGHTS:

Nebraska shot 19-49 for 39% from the floor. They went 5-24 for 21% from deep and 9-18 for 50% from the free-throw line. The Huskers collected 34 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. Nebraska had 13 turnovers to 12 assists, and only 7 second chance points.

The Huskers were led by Sam Hoiberg, who had 12 points. Rienk Mast and Cale Jacobsen had 11 each. Berke Buyuktuncel, Jamarques Lawrence and Pryce Sandfort each had 5 rebounds. Lawrence also had 5 assists.

UCLA shot 28-60 for 47% from the floor. They went 10-29 for 35% from deep and 6-10 for 60% from the free-throw line. The Bruins collected 36 rebounds, 11 of which were offensive. UCLA had 17 assists to 8 turnovers and had 17 second chance points.

The Bruins were led by Trent Perry, who had 20 points and 7 rebounds. Eric Dailey Jr. had 14 points and 8 rebounds. Donovan Dent led the way with 8 assists.

I’m a little at a loss for words on this one. I know Nebraska has played some uggos recently, but dear God, what team was I watching tonight? Look at the stats, no hit anything from anywhere. The assists to turnovers were negative. Nebraska on 3 SEPARATE OCCASIONS had got 3 OFFENSIVE REBOUNDS in a possession and DIDN’T SCORE!!!

UCLA hit its first shot 11 seconds into the game, and Nebraska never saw the light of day after that. 11 freaking seconds was all that Nebraska was in this contest. Some days you are the dog; others you are the hydrant. Tonight was a hydrant night. Better to have crapped the bed now than do it two weeks from now in the NCAA Tournament. Nebraska finishes its regular season on Sunday against Iowa. Tip-off from Pinnacle Bank Arena is at 4:00 pm central and can be seen on Fox.

One more for good measure…

On the second episode of UFC 326 Embedded, Charles Oliveira hits pads surrounded by his family; BMF Max Holloway sees how “The Ninth Island” compares to home cooking; Caio Borralho trains with support from The Fighting Nerds; Reinier de Ridder embarks on a quest to find hot springs; Rob Font prepares for his fight at Tristar Gym; Gregory Rodrigues spends quality time with his wife and daughter; Charles Oliveira activates “Super Saiyan mode” ahead of his main event fight.

UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2 takes place on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is headlined by a lightweight bout for the symbolic BMF title between former champion Charles Oliveira and former featherweight titleholder Max Holloway.

UFC 326 Embedded - Episode 2

Dennis Schroder, having played for 11 teams in the NBA since his debut in 2013, has a lot of former teammates, and with most of them he has been on good terms. On Tuesday night, however, he had an uncomfortable, albeit lighthearted encounter with Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, where he spent the second half of the 2024-25 season.

Schroder began the current campaign with the Sacramento Kings but was on the move once again in February and now finds himself chasing a top playoff spot with the Cleveland Cavaliers. He scored 15 points in a 113-108 win, but during the game his exchange with Cunningham, which was caught by the mic, showed how much the Pistons star had changed since Schroder was his teammate.

The Pistons, after scrambling near the bottom of the standings two seasons ago, are now the No. 1 team in the Eastern Conference. Cunningham has admittedly been the biggest reason behind this turnaround, with his 25 ppg and incredible consistency helping Detroit dream big. Unfortunately, his rising stock has also made him a busier man who has become harder to reach.

Cunningham, mid game against the Cavs, tried to talk to Schroder, but the German baller replied, “Don’t talk to me now.”

“I tried to call you, you got MVP chants, now you not answering the phone no more,” the Cavs guard added, with a laugh, which suggested that it was banter.

At the same time, this could be true. Cunningham isn’t just a prospect anymore. The former #1 Draft pick is the protagonist of a team chasing a Championship, and he has, indeed, received NBA MVP shouts from legends like Shaquille O’Neal.

The Pistons last won the NBA title in 2004, when they beat the Lakers 4–1 in the Finals. Since then, they have been on a steady decline. Between 2008 and 2024, they reached the playoffs only three times and exited in the first round in each of those seasons after being swept. It was only Cunningham’s rise in 2025 that took them back to the playoffs, where they pushed the New York Knicks to six games before bowing out.

It was a defining moment for Cunningham and the Pistons, setting the stage for a better 2025–26 season, which they are currently having.

The Cavs, meanwhile, are on their tail. They are No. 4 in the East and could very well meet Detroit in the postseason. Schroder vs. Cunningham? It might be a battle Schroder takes personally if Cunningham ignoring his calls truly affected him.

The post Dennis Schroder Accuses Cade Cunningham of Ignoring Him After Getting MVP Chants appeared first on The SportsRush.

Jakob Poeltl describes Knicks' Jalen Brunson's indomitable will in the clutch originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Knicks pulled out their 40th win of the 2025-26 regular season on Tuesday night, defeating the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in a 111-95 victory.

It was a victory defined by streaks, including a third straight win holding their opponents under 100 points, their 10th straight win over the Raptors, and a third straight season with at least 40-plus wins.

The real star of the night, as per usual, was star point guard Jalen Brunson. The All-Star led the Knicks in scoring with 26 points, shooting 10 of 22 from the field, including seven points and an assist in the final five minutes. Last year's Clutch Player of the Year is, in fact, still clutch.

Jakob Poeltl explains why it's so hard to defend Knicks' Jalen Brunson

In his postgame interview, Raptors center Jakob Poeltl described how difficult it can be to defend Brunson, especially in those crunchtime situations.

"I mean, obviously it's difficult...he's good in these kind of situations. He knows how to dictate the game very well. We try to be really aggressive with him, try to take him out of his comfort zone," Poeltl told reporters.

"They just made some good plays at the end there. Knocked down some shots, some wild plays...it got out of hand in the last couple of minutes."

The Knicks improved to 40-22 on the season following the win in Toronto as they continue their push for the playoffs.

Next up, the second night of a back-to-back against the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.

It's sure to be a battle between two of the top teams in their respective conferences.

More Knicks news:

• Knicks teammates can't get enough of rookie Mohamed Diawara's record-breaking performance
• Knicks star Jalen Brunson clarifies 'do right by me' comments regarding future contract
• Jalen Brunson offers hilarious response when asked about playing against Jose Alvarado vs. having him as a teammate
• Jose Alvarado gives brutally honest answer on Pistons' regular season sweep over Knicks
• Knicks new addition Jeremy Sochan expected to eat into minutes of fan-favorite rookie
• Jalen Brunson reveals honest thoughts on latest Knicks addition Jeremy Sochan

Manchester United Women had numerous players in international action yesterday evening.

Jess Park

The United starlet discussed how she wanted to use her club form to launch her international career, and she got off to the perfect start.

Park scored two goals in England’s 6-1 demolition of Ukraine in World Cup qualifying.

In the 78th minute, the ball was whipped across goal and Park showed great instinct to turn in the pass.

She grabbed her second in the 89th minute when she tucked inside and launched a trademark dipping long-range effort, giving the Ukrainian keeper no chance.

Jess Park season stats

Maya Le Tissier also played the match at right back for the Lionesses, despite impressing from centre back for her club.

Melvine Malard

The French striker was also the heroine for her national team as they came from behind to beat the Republic of Ireland 2-1.

She scored a wonderful goal on 71 minutes when she waltzed through the Irish defence and slotted home a calm finish to bring her side level.

The United attacker completed the comeback on 78 minutes, when the ball finally landed to Malard in the box and she spun and struck a fine effort into the bottom corner to bring her side level.

Lisa Naalsund

The Norwegian has had a strong season for United, and she was the hero for her national team as she scored the only goal of Norway’s 1-0 win over Austria.

The United midfielder swept in an effort from the middle of the box in the 81st minute to give her side the lead.

Lea Schuller

The German star scored her nation’s fifth as they comfortably dispatched Slovenia 5-0.

She fired in her effort with her left foot from inside the area to put the cherry on top of the cake after 71 minutes of play.

Dominique Janssen

The United veteran was also involved for the Netherlands, starting at centre back.

She captained her side and played the entire 90 minutes of their 2-2 draw with Poland.

Swedish trio

Finally, Julia Zigiotti and Hanna Lundkvist both started for Sweden in their impressive 1-0 win away to Italy.

Fridolina Rolfo also came on as a substitute in the game in her return to full fitness.

Featured image Ben Roberts Photo via Getty Images

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Fulham return to Craven Cottage on Wednesday evening, looking to maintain their European charge against a West Ham United side desperate to escape the relegation zone.

The Cottagers enter this midweek London derby in exceptional form, having won three consecutive matches across all competitions, including a superb 2–1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. That result, inspired by first-half goals from Harry Wilson and Alex Iwobi, propelled Fulham into ninth place and completed their first top-flight double over Spurs in 22 years. Silva’s side now has the opportunity to record just their second-ever Premier League season sweep of West Ham, having secured a 1–0 victory at the London Stadium in late December.

West Ham United, meanwhile, travel across the capital, currently sitting in 18th place, two points adrift of safety after a heavy 5–2 defeat at Liverpool on Saturday. Despite the scoreline, Nuno Espírito Santo’s men showed resilience in the second half with goals from Tomáš Souček and Valentín Castellanos. The Hammers know that a victory tonight could lift them out of the drop zone, depending on Nottingham Forest’s result at Manchester City. However, the visitors must overcome a wretched record in city derbies this season, having lost seven of their eight Premier League London matches.

Fulham vs West Ham United – Match preview and team news

• Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
• Kick-off: 19:30 GMT
• Venue: Craven Cottage, London
• Referee: Matt Donohue
• VAR: John Brooks
• Last Meeting: West Ham 0–1 Fulham (27 Dec 2025), Premier League

Team News

Fulham

Marco Silva is sweating over the fitness of star winger Harry Wilson, who was withdrawn on Sunday with a twisted ankle. Wilson has been fundamental this season, recording 15 goal involvements (9 goals, 6 assists). Brazilian winger Kevin is definitely out as he recovers from foot surgery. In better news, defender Joachim Andersen is back after missing the Spurs win through illness, and midfielder Saša Lukić could return following a hamstring injury.

West Ham United

Nuno Espírito Santo has a nearly full squad at his disposal, reporting no fresh injury concerns after the trip to Anfield. Forward Pablo Felipe remains sidelined with a calf injury, though he has begun an individual training program. Midfielder Freddie Potts serves the final game of his three-match suspension. Mateus Fernandes, Soungoutou Magassa, and Tomáš Souček are expected to anchor the engine room in his absence.

Form

Fulham

The West Londoners have hit their stride in 2026, winning five of their last seven home matches across all competitions. Most recently, they dispatched Spurs 2–1 and Sunderland 3–1, showing clinical efficiency in early kick-offs. Notably, Fulham have won seven of their last 10 home evening Premier League games starting at 7pm or later. While they showed some late vulnerability against Tottenham by dropping deep too early, their defensive organisation has generally improved under Silva.

West Ham United

The Hammers have shown signs of improvement recently, picking up 11 points from their last seven Premier League outings—seven more than they managed in the previous 10. Prior to the Liverpool defeat, they were on a three-game unbeaten run in the league (W1, D2), including draws against Manchester United and Bournemouth. Notably, West Ham have been defensively frail on the road, having already conceded 54 league goals this term; only Burnley (56) have shipped more.

Predicted Lineups

Fulham Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Berge, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Bobb; Jimenez

West Ham United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Hermansen; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Disasi, Diouf; Bowen, Magassa, Soucek, Summerville; Fernandes; Castellanos

How to Watch Fulham vs West Ham United?

The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports. Coverage typically begins at 19:00 GMT.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

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Newcastle United host Manchester United at St James’ Park tonight, aiming to secure a fourth consecutive home league win over the Red Devils and snap a dismal domestic run.

The Magpies have moved into a critical period of their campaign, currently sitting in 13th place after losing five of their last six Premier League games. Manager Eddie Howe oversaw a frustrating 3–2 home loss to Everton on Saturday and is now desperate to avoid a fourth consecutive home league defeat—a streak last seen at the club in 2018. Notably, 36% of Newcastle’s all-time Premier League wins against Manchester United have come under Howe’s tenure.

Newcastle United Team News

Eddie Howe manages a squad still missing several influential leaders due to a persistent injury crisis. Notably, Bruno Guimarães, Tino Livramento, and Fabian Schär are not expected to be available tonight, though they are nearing returns. Consequently, Sven Botman is poised for a recall to the centre of defence ahead of Dan Burn. Jacob Ramsey is expected to feature after overcoming an illness that forced him off at the weekend. Notably, Ramsey has either scored or assisted in each of his last three league appearances, despite failing to register a goal involvement in his first 15 games for the club.

Nick Pope will start in goal behind a defensive line likely featuring Kieran Trippier and Lewis Hall. In midfield, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton are expected to anchor the side alongside Joe Willock. Anthony Gordon is likely to lead the line as a makeshift number nine if Nick Woltemade fails a late fitness test. Notably, Gordon has struggled for league efficiency this term, converting just 8% of his 38 shots into goals, a stark contrast to his 29% conversion rate in cup competitions.

Newcastle United Predicted Lineup

Newcastle United Predicted XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Willock, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at St James’ Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:15 GMT.

How to watch Newcastle vs Manchester United?

In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

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Nottingham Forest travel to the Etihad Stadium tonight, aiming to snap a three-game losing streak and secure their first league points under Vítor Pereira.

The Tricky Trees have moved into a precarious position, sitting just two points clear of the relegation zone following a 2–1 loss at Brighton. Manager Vítor Pereira oversaw a resilient but ultimately fruitless performance on the South Coast and now faces a City side that has proved impenetrable for Forest in recent years. Notably, Forest have lost all three of their away Premier League games at the Etihad without scoring a single goal, conceding 11 times in the process.

Nottingham Forest Team News

Vítor Pereira manages a squad heavily impacted by a wave of long-term knee injuries to senior players. Notably, top scorer Chris Wood remains out until April, while Willy Boly and Nicolò Savona are also sidelined. Consequently, Igor Jesus will continue to lead the line. In goal, Matz Sels has recovered from a groin issue and is expected to start, especially with Stefan Ortega unavailable to face his former club. Notably, Morgan Gibbs-White remains the key attacking threat; he has scored seven goals this season, matching his career-best in a single Premier League campaign.

Matz Sels will start in goal behind a defensive line led by Nikola Milenković and Murillo. In midfield, the partnership of Ibrahim Sangaré and Elliot Anderson will be tasked with disrupting City’s rhythm. Notably, Anderson leads the league for duels won and possession won this season. Morgan Gibbs-White will operate in the number ten role, flanked by Callum Hudson-Odoi and Dan Ndoye. Notably, Forest have won in only one of their eight away top-flight visits to City since 1989 and must find a way to stop a City team that has won 24 of their last 26 Wednesday home matches.

Nottingham Forest Predicted Lineup

Nottingham Forest Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.

How to watch Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest?

UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 4. Highlights will be available on Match of the Day later tonight.

Read more- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard

See Also- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

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Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal against a Nottingham Forest side battling to stay above the drop zone.

The Citizens arrive in ruthless form, having won their last six matches across all competitions. A clinical 1–0 victory over Leeds United on Saturday ensured City remained within touching distance of the summit, trailing the Gunners by five points with a crucial game in hand. While City have transformed the Etihad into a fortress—winning 16 of their last 19 home league games—they face a Forest side that has historically struggled to contain them in Manchester. Notably, Forest have lost all three of their away Premier League games at the Etihad since returning to the top flight by a staggering aggregate score of 11–0.

Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, travel north under immense pressure as they sit just two points above the relegation zone. Life under new head coach Vítor Pereira has yet to yield a Premier League victory, with Sunday’s 2–1 loss at Brighton marking a third consecutive defeat in all competitions. Despite showing flashes of personality in their recent European exploits, the Tricky Trees must find a way to solve a defensive crisis that has left them without several key senior figures. Facing a City side that has won 24 of their last 26 Premier League home games played on a Wednesday, Forest face a monumental task to avoid being dragged into the bottom three.

Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest – Match preview and team news

• Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
• Kick-off: 19:30 GMT
• Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester
• Referee: Darren England
• VAR: Tony Harrington
• Last Meeting: Nottingham Forest 1–2 Manchester City (27 Dec 2025), Premier League

Team News

Manchester City

Pep Guardiola is sweating over the fitness of star striker Erling Haaland, who missed the Leeds match with a knock. While the manager noted Haaland feels “much better,” a late decision will be made on Tuesday. Midfielder Nico O’Reilly is also a doubt after picking up an ankle injury at Elland Road. The hosts are definitely without Croatian duo Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic, both of whom remain long-term absentees. However, Max Alleyne has returned to first-team training and is expected to be in the squad.

Nottingham Forest

Vítor Pereira manages a squad significantly depleted by a wave of knee injuries. Chris Wood remains sidelined until at least April, while Willy Boly, John Victor, and Nicolò Savona are also unavailable. In goal, Matz Sels has made a timely recovery from a groin issue, which is vital as former City keeper Stefan Ortega is ruled out with a calf injury. Full-back Neco Williams will be assessed after appearing jaded in the defeat to Brighton.

Form

Manchester City

The Sky Blues have been the picture of consistency lately, winning four consecutive Premier League matches and six in a row in all competitions. Most recently, they ground out a 1–0 win at Leeds following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Newcastle. Notably, 39% of City’s wins this season have come by a single goal, their highest such proportion in over a decade. Guardiola’s side has also been historically dominant on Wednesdays, averaging 2.85 points per game at home on that specific day.

Nottingham Forest

Forest arrive in Manchester searching for their first league win under Vítor Pereira. Their recent form includes a 2–1 defeat at Brighton on Sunday and a narrow 1–0 home loss to Liverpool last week. Notably, Pereira remains winless in the Premier League this season across his time with Wolves and Forest, a run spanning 12 matches. The Tricky Trees have also struggled defensively at the Etihad, becoming one of only three sides in competition history to fail to score while shipping 10+ goals at a single stadium.

Predicted Lineups

Manchester City Predicted XI (4-1-4-1): Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Gonzalez; Cherki, Reijnders, Foden, Semenyo; Marmoush

Nottingham Forest Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sels; Aina, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Jesus

How to Watch Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest?

The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 4. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT ahead of the 19:30 kick-off.

Read more- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard

See Also- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:

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St James’ Park serves as the setting for a high-stakes Premier League clash on Wednesday night as a revitalised Manchester United look to cement its top-four credentials against a Newcastle side desperate to end a worrying slide.

The Red Devils arrive on Tyneside in clinical form under interim manager Michael Carrick, having amassed 19 points from a possible 21 since mid-January. A gritty 2–1 comeback victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday propelled United into third place, level on points with Aston Villa and three clear of Liverpool. Carrick has overseen a remarkable defensive turnaround, with the team losing just one of their last 11 away league games (W5 D5). However, the Theatre of Dreams has proved more fruitful than St James’ Park lately; United have failed to win on their last three visits to Newcastle and are searching for their first victory there since 2020.

Newcastle United, meanwhile, find themselves in a precarious position, currently floundering in 13th place after losing five of their last six league matches. Eddie Howe’s side has been hampered by the dual demands of a Champions League campaign and a crippling injury list, most recently suffering a damaging 3–2 home defeat to Everton. The Magpies have lost three consecutive Premier League home games, conceding eight goals in the process. With a brutal run of fixtures including Manchester City, Barcelona, and Chelsea on the horizon, Newcastle must capitalise on their recent historical dominance over United at home to ignite their European hopes.

Newcastle United vs Manchester United – Match preview and team news

• Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
• Kick-off: 20:15 GMT
• Venue: St James’ Park, Newcastle
• Referee: Peter Bankes
• VAR: Paul Tierney
• Last Meeting: Manchester United 1–0 Newcastle (26 Dec 2025), Premier League

Team News

Newcastle United

Eddie Howe continues to manage a heavily depleted squad. Influential figures Bruno Guimarães, Tino Livramento, and Fabian Schär are all nearing returns but are not expected to be fit for Wednesday. Lewis Miley remains sidelined with a niggling thigh injury, while Emil Krafth is out for the season. In more positive news, Jacob Ramsey is expected to be available after recovering from illness, though Nick Woltemade remains a major doubt. Sven Botman is pushing for a recall to the starting defence.

Manchester United

Michael Carrick faces fresh defensive concerns after Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire were forced off against Crystal Palace due to illness and knocks. While Carrick is hopeful they will recover, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven are on standby. Lisandro Martínez and Mason Mount are back in training but might find this game coming too soon for a start. Matthijs de Ligt (back) and Patrick Dorgu (hamstring) remain definite absentees.

Form

Newcastle United

The Magpies have struggled for defensive consistency at home, having lost their last three Premier League matches at St James’ Park. Notably, Newcastle have only lost two of their last 20 home evening kick-offs (7pm or later) in the division. While they have won four of their last six matches in all competitions, two of those victories came in Europe against Qarabag FK. Anthony Gordon will look to improve his clinical edge, having converted just 8% of his shots in the league this season compared to 29% in other competitions.

Manchester United

Under Carrick, United have become the Premier League’s “comeback kings” in 2026, recovering nine points from losing positions—more than any other side. Notably, the Red Devils have lost only one of their last eight league matches after falling behind. Bruno Fernandes has been the creative heartbeat of the side, recording 13 assists this season, the most by a United player in a single campaign since 2012. Striker Benjamin Šeško arrives in predatory form, averaging a goal every 49.7 minutes in recent weeks.

Predicted Lineups

Newcastle United Predicted XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Willock, Tonali, Joelinton; Barnes, Woltemade, Gordon

Manchester United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko

How to Watch Newcastle United vs Manchester United?

The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 1. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Latest Arsenal injury news on Rice, Raya, Havertz and Odegaard

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Arsenal head to the South Coast on Wednesday night, aiming to maintain their grip on the Premier League title race against a Brighton & Hove Albion side finding form at a critical moment.

The Gunners enter this midweek fixture in commanding form, unbeaten in their last nine matches and fresh from back-to-back London derby victories over Tottenham and Chelsea. While Arsenal currently hold a five-point lead over Manchester City, Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand, leaving the Gunners with little room for error. Arsenal’s clinical nature in away games has improved significantly recently; they averaged just 1.2 goals per game on the road between August and December, but that figure has surged to 2.3 per match since the turn of the year.

Brighton & Hove Albion, meanwhile, appear to have moved past a difficult winter spell that saw them go winless in six matches between January and February. Fabian Hürzeler’s side has secured consecutive victories over Brentford and Nottingham Forest, moving them to 11th in the table and reigniting their European aspirations. The Seagulls have a historic knack for frustrating the league leaders, having won two of their last four Premier League home games against the team starting the day at the top of the table.

Brighton vs Arsenal – Match preview and team news

• Date: Wednesday, 4 March 2026
• Kick-off: 19:30 GMT
• Venue: American Express Stadium, Brighton
• Referee: Chris Kavanagh
• VAR: Michael Salisbury
• Last Meeting: Arsenal 2–1 Brighton (27 Dec 2025), Premier League

Team News

Brighton

The Seagulls will assess Mats Wieffer, who was forced off late in the win over Forest, with Joel Veltman ready to deputise. Yasin Ayari is nearing a return from a shoulder problem and faces a late test. However, Adam Webster and Stefanos Tzimas are both ruled out for the season with knee injuries. Veteran James Milner remains available despite the quick turnaround.

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Declan Rice will be available after a knock forced him off against Chelsea, noting the midfielder felt “much better” on Monday. Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard are both pushing to be involved, though their conditions will be assessed late. David Raya is fit to start, but Ben White, Mikel Merino, and Max Dowman are expected to remain sidelined.

Form

Brighton

Brighton have secured more wins in their last two games than they had in their previous 13 combined (W1 D6 L6). Notably, the Seagulls have suffered just two home defeats all season, though they have won only two of their last eight at the Amex. Forward Danny Welbeck has already matched his career-best of 10 Premier League goals this term; one more would see him join an elite group of players scoring 10+ goals in a season for the first time while aged 35 or older.

Arsenal

The Gunners are unbeaten in their last 19 evening Premier League matches (7pm or later), a run stretching back to December 2023. Notably, set-pieces remain Arsenal’s most potent weapon; they have equalled the Premier League record for goals from corners in a single season (16). Furthermore, of the 20 times Arsenal have opened the scoring this season, 13 of those goals have come from a set-piece or penalty—the joint-most in the competition’s history.

Predicted Lineups

Brighton Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Veltman, Dunk, Van Hecke, Kadioglu; Gross, Baleba; Gomez, Hinshelwood, Mitoma; Welbeck

Arsenal Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli

How to Watch Brighton vs Arsenal?

The match will be televised live in the UK on TNT Sports 2. Coverage begins at 19:00 GMT ahead of the 19:30 kick-off.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

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Arsenal travel to the Amex Stadium tonight aiming to secure a third consecutive victory and break the Premier League record for goals scored from corners.

The Gunners have moved into a clinical phase of their title charge, maintaining a five-point lead following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Chelsea. Manager Mikel Arteta oversaw a performance that equalled the record for most corner goals in a season (16), and his side now looks to take the outright record against a Brighton side that has kept only one clean sheet in their last 10 games. Notably, Arsenal are unbeaten in their last five visits to the Amex since the 2020-21 campaign.

Arsenal Team News

Mikel Arteta manages a squad balancing recent knocks with the return of key senior figures. Notably, Declan Rice is a doubt after a knock in the Chelsea match, but he is expected to train and push for a start. Consequently, if Rice or Martin Ødegaard are not fit, Hale End graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly could earn a start in midfield. Viktor Gyökeres arrives in excellent form, having been involved in six goals in his last seven away games (5 goals, 1 assist). Notably, Arsenal have become far more prolific on the road in 2026, averaging 2.3 goals per game compared to 1.2 earlier in the season.

David Raya will start in goal behind a defensive unit led by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães. In midfield, Martin Zubimendi is expected to continue his partnership with Rice if fit. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli will provide the width, with Gyökeres poised to lead the attack. Notably, 65% of the time Arsenal have opened the scoring this season, the breakthrough has come via a set-piece or penalty.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup

Arsenal Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Raya; Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Zubimendi, Lewis-Skelly; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at the American Express Stadium on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.

How to watch Brighton vs Arsenal?

In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 2. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:

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Chelsea travel to Villa Park tonight aiming to secure their first away victory at the ground since 2022 and close the gap on the Champions League places.

The Blues have moved into a period of frustration under manager Liam Rosenior, currently sitting sixth in the table and winless in their last three matches. Manager Rosenior oversaw a narrow 2–1 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, a result that highlighted his side’s continued tactical progression but also their vulnerability at set-pieces. Notably, Chelsea have lost eight of their last 10 midweek away games in the Premier League, including both of their trips on the road this year.

Chelsea Team News

Liam Rosenior manages a squad missing a key winger due to suspension but bolstered by a significant defensive return. Notably, Wesley Fofana is available for selection after serving his ban, while Cole Palmer has been cleared to play despite a minor injury scare against Arsenal. Consequently, Tosin Adarabioyo may make way in central defence. However, Pedro Neto is suspended following his red card, and Marc Cucurella remains a major doubt. Notably, João Pedro has been directly involved in five goals in his five career appearances against Aston Villa, his favourite opponent in the competition.

Robert Sánchez will start in goal behind a defensive line led by captain Reece James and the returning Fofana. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo and Andrey Santos are expected to anchor the side, allowing Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández to support João Pedro in attack. Notably, Chelsea are winless in their last two visits to Villa Park and haven’t lost consecutive away league games at the ground since the early 2000s. The visitors have dropped 19 points from winning positions this term, a habit they must break to secure a vital result tonight.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup

Chelsea Predicted XI (4-3-3): Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Fofana, Hato; Caicedo, Santos; Palmer, Fernandez, Garnacho; Pedro

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at Villa Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.

How to watch Aston Villa vs Chelsea?

UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 3. Highlights will be available on the TNT Sports app shortly after the final whistle.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Haaland injury update delivered ahead of Man City vs Forest

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Fulham host West Ham United at Craven Cottage tonight, aiming to secure their fourth consecutive victory in all competitions and close the gap on the European places.

The Cottagers have moved into ninth place in the table after a revitalising run under Marco Silva. Manager Silva oversaw a clinical 2–1 victory over Tottenham on Sunday, and his side now looks to complete a rare top-flight double over the Hammers. Notably, Fulham have won seven of their last 10 home evening Premier League games, making Craven Cottage a formidable venue under the lights.

Fulham Team News

Marco Silva manages a squad balancing significant momentum with fresh injury concerns in attacking areas. Notably, Harry Wilson is a major doubt after twisting his ankle against Spurs; if he fails a late test, Samuel Chukwueze is poised to start on the right flank. Consequently, Oscar Bobb and Emile Smith Rowe will likely continue their creative partnership behind Raúl Jiménez. Notably, Wilson has been Fulham’s most productive player this season with 15 Premier League goal involvements, the most by any player at the club since Dimitar Berbatov in 2012-13.

Bernd Leno will start in goal behind a defensive line bolstered by the return of Joachim Andersen, who missed the weekend win through illness. In midfield, Sander Berge and Alex Iwobi will anchor the side, with Saša Lukić also pushing for a return to the matchday squad following a hamstring injury. Notably, Fulham have already beaten West Ham 1–0 this season and are looking for the first league sweep of their London rivals since the 2023-24 campaign.

Fulham Predicted Lineup

Fulham Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Andersen, Bassey, Sessegnon; Berge, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Smith Rowe, Bobb; Jimenez

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at Craven Cottage on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 GMT.

How to watch Fulham vs West Ham?

In the UK, the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports. Fans can also stream the action via the discovery+ app.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:

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Manchester United travel to St James’ Park tonight aiming to secure a Premier League double over Newcastle and extend their unbeaten away run to six matches.

The Red Devils have moved into third place in the table after a revitalising spell under manager Michael Carrick, who has won five of his first six games in charge. Manager Carrick oversaw a clinical 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace on Sunday, and his side now looks to consolidate their top-four position. Notably, Manchester United have only lost one of their last 11 away Premier League games, a significant improvement from their previous 11 on the road.

Manchester United Team News

Michael Carrick manages a squad coping with fresh defensive doubts after two veteran stars felt unwell during the weekend’s win. Notably, Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are being monitored; if they are unable to start, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven are ready to step in. Consequently, the manager may hand a first inclusion in the league XI to striker Benjamin Šeško after his match-winning contribution off the bench. Notably, Šeško has scored seven goals in eight matches since the departure of Ruben Amorim, averaging a goal every 49.7 minutes during that run.

Arne Lammens will start in goal behind a defensive line led by Leny Yoro and potentially Harry Maguire. In midfield, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to continue their partnership, providing the platform for Bruno Fernandes to operate in the creative role. Notably, Fernandes has already provided 13 league assists this term, matching the most by a United player in a single campaign since 2011-12. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha will provide the threat from wide areas as United seek to become the first side since 1931 to win four consecutive league matches at St James’ Park.

Manchester United Predicted Lineup

Manchester United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko

When will the match kick off?

The Premier League fixture takes place at St James’ Park on Wednesday, 4 March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:15 GMT.

How to watch Newcastle vs Manchester United?

UK fans can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1. Highlights will be available on Match of the Day later tonight.

Read more- Man Utd boss Carrick says set-piece grappling has ‘gone too far’

See Also- Guardiola agrees with Slot on growing Premier League problem

Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:

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Toluca bounce back from trailing twice in the match to get a 3-2 victory over Pumas that meant they are the only undefeated team in the Clausura 2026. Pumas’ undefeated recorded ended in large part because of a terrible goal miss that also dropped them off to 5th place. Pumas will now travel north to face off against Necaxa on Friday while Toluca return home where they will host FC Juarez.

The 1st half started with Pumas coming out with the same starting 11 as they had in their previous two matches. Toluca had the return of Luan to the starting 11. Off a corner kick, the cross from Pavel Perez came dangerously close and forced a save from Pumas’ goalkeeper, Keylor Navas. A great cross into the area was volleyed by Paulinho and it would hit the post although it would have been offside had it gone in. A cross into the area was deflected into the path of Alan Medina but his weak shot was easily saved by Toluca’s goalkeeper, Hugo Gonzalez. After getting a thru pass in the area, Jorge Diaz Price got off a great right footed shot that forced a great save from Navas. Off a corner kick, Luan got off a header that went wide. After a good combination play, Jordan Carrillo got into the area where he got brought down by Luan and the ref gave a Penalty Kick to Pumas. Robert Morales stepped up to take the PK and got off a strong right footed shot that went past Gonzalez and into the net to score and give Pumas the 1-0 lead against the run of play. From outside the area, Jesus Ricardo Angulo got off a left footed shot that was saved by Navas. After a great run, Juninho started a 2 vs o counter attack and the got off a pass that took out Gonzalez and left Morales with a wide open net shot and he sent his shot well wide in an historic bad miss. It was a sure goal for Morales and the miss was so bad, it will probably go thru the world wide media, it was that bad. Then a minute later, Jesus Ricardo Angulo made a good play and got off an incredible left footed shot that went past Navas to score and tie the match at 1-1. The game went from an almost sure 2-0 lead for Pumas to a 1-1 tie in a huge hit to Pumas. The halftime whistle blew with the tied score.

The 2nd half started with neither team making a substitution. A pass into the area would fail to be controlled by Paulinho from close range and Navas would beat him to it. Paulinho would get off a right footed shot from outside the area that went wide. Pumas subbed out Jordan Carrillo for Uriel Antuna. From outside the area, Paulinho was given time and space to get off a right footed shot but it was easily saved by Navas. A counter from Pumas ended with Antuna getting off a right footed shot that forced a good save from Gonzalez. From outside the area, Alvaro Angulo got off a left footed shot that forced another save from Gonzalez. Off a corner kick, the ball would not be cleared well by Toluca and the ball would end up getting to Alvaro Angulo, who in the area got off a left footed shot past Gonzalez to score and give Pumas the 2-1 lead. Toluca subbed out Luan for Helinho. After getting the ball in the area, Federico Pereira got off a right footed shot that forced a great save from Navas. The ball was left there for Pereira, who got off a bicycle kick volley that would reach Paulinho, who from close range would send his shot wide. Off a counter, Morales got off a right footed shot in the area that forced a save from Gonzalez, who left the ball there but Juninho would crash the close range shot into him. From way off the half line, a huge shot from Morales would go just wide. Off a corner kick, Toluca would surprise by getting off a pass to a wide open Diego Barbosa, who got off a wonderful right footed shot from outside the area that went past Navas and into the net to score and tie the match at 2-2. It was the second consecutive match where Pumas got scored on a play like that, the only goal Tijuana scored in their previous game came off the same play. Pumas would sub out Alan Medina for Guillermo Martinez. A cross into the area would fall to Helinho, whose left footed shot was deflected wide by Pumas’ defense. Toluca subbed out Jorge Diaz Price for Nicolas Castro. Off the ensuing corner kick, the ball would eventually fall to Perez, whose right footed shot was brilliantly saved by Navas. Jesus Gallardo would get off a good shot that was headed from close range by Paulinho and although Pumas claimed an offside, the goal stood and Toluca had taken the 3-2 lead. Toluca subbed out Jesus Ricardo Angulo for Antonio Briseño. A right footed shot from Helinho was deflected wide. Pumas subbed out Angel Azuaje and Pedro Vite for Ruben Duarte and Cesar Garza. A bad clearance allowed Antuna to get off a shot in the area but his left footed shot went wide in a bad miss. In would be the last play and Toluca got the 3-2 victory that meant they were the only team without a loss in the season.

Pumas’ undefeated record came to an end with a very exciting match that ended with Toluca defeating them by a 3-2 score. While Toluca was the better team and the win was deserved, Pumas’ fans will feel and opportunity was wanted when Morales’ terrible miss meant that a 2-0 lead at home would end up a minute later with a 1-1 tie. Pumas should also be worried about the team’s defensive struggles especially after the tying goal being similar to the goal that Tijuana scored on Friday against Pumas. Pumas will need to bounce back quickly as they have to travel to play on Friday against Necaxa in Aguascalientes. Toluca will return home where they will be heavy favorites against FC Juarez as they once again are a leading candidates for the Liga MX title.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. - The UNLV Runnin' Rebels defeated the Utah State Aggies, 92-65, on Tuesday March 3, 2026, at the Thomas and Mack Center and The Sporting Tribune's RJ Forbus was there to capture the following TST Images.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels G Dravyn Gibbs-Lawhorn (0) hypes up the crowd in the final minutes of a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior G Howie Fleming Jr. (3) battles for position against a Utah State Aggies player on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels G Issac Williamson (12) follows through on a three-point shot against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Tyrin Jones (6) dunks the ball during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Kimani Hamilton and teammate F Tyrin Jones (6) celebrate after Hamilton earns a free throw shot after scoring a basket against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Kimani Hamilton (2) watches the ball after shooting a three-point shot against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Jacob Bannarbie (10) looks for a pass during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels senior F Walter Brown (22) dunks the ball during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Jacob Bannarbie (10) draws a foul while shooting a lay-up shot during a college basketball game against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

RJ Forbus - The Sporting Tribune

UNLV Runnin' Rebels F Tyrin Jones (6) points to the crowd after scoring a breakaway basket against the Utah State Aggies on Tuesday March 3, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The UCLA men’s basketball team made Senior Night one to savor Tuesday, dominating No. 9 Nebraska 72-52 at Pauley Pavilion for its 20th victory of the season and third over a top-10 ranked opponent.

The Bruins improved to 20-10 overall and 12-7 in the Big Ten with one regular season game remaining, Saturday at crosstown rival USC.

Trent Perry scored 20 points, Eric Dailey Jr. had 14 and three players — Tyler Bilodeau, Skyy Clark and Xavier Booker — each added eight points.

Sam Hoiberg had 12 points to lead Nebraska.

The Bruins were in control from the opening tip-off and never trailed the Cornhuskers (25-5, 14-5). UCLA improved to 10-3 in all-time against Nebraska and the win greatly strengthened its resume for an NCAA tournament berth as the Bruins also beat then-No. 4 Purdue 69-67 on Jan. 20 and then-No. 10 Illinois 95-94 in overtime on Feb. 21 on Donovan Dent’s layup with one second left.

Read more:Kelly Inouye-Perez proud to honor UCLA Bruins' legacy of winning

This is the fifth time in head coach Mick Cronin’s seven seasons that the Bruins have won 20 or more games. They are 17-1 at home (their only loss in overtime to Indiana on Jan. 31).

UCLA went ahead by 15 points, 37-22, on Perry’s three-pointer with 2:41 left and led 37-24 at intermission. The Bruins shot 50% from the field in the first half (15-for-30) while Nebraska was only 31 percent (nine-for-29).

The Bruins increased their advantage to 18 points on Dailey Jr.’s dunk less than five minutes into the second half and the visitors got no closer than nine the rest of the way.

Prior to pregame introductions the Bruins honored seniors Bilodeau, Dent and Clark; fifth-year player Jamar Brown; redshirt seniors Steven Jamerson II, Jack Seidler and Anthony Peoples Jr; and redshirt junior Evan Manjikian. In a media timeout, midway through the first half, former coach Jim Harrick (who led UCLA to its 11th national championship in 1995) was honored and got a loud ovation.

Over the last four games, Dent has 46 assists and just two turnovers.

Bilodeau has scored in double figures in 26 of 28 games played, totaling 20 points or more nine times.

Dailey moved to within five points of reaching the 1,000-career point milestone.

UCLA has now made at least one three-pointer in 887 of 888 games dating to February 2000.

Sign up for UCLA Unlocked for big game takeaways, recruiting buzz and more UCLA sports insights.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Five goals to win a hockey game is where the Edmonton Oilers are at right now.

They gave up four goals in forty minutes, fell behind by two, and needed a comeback win against the Ottawa Senstors who have been watching the playoff race from the outside for a while now.

This isn’t a new story, that much is obvious. This is the same turnovers, the same high danger chances, and the same goaltending left out to dry at various points throughout the game. But then there's a dominant third-period comeback that makes you wonder why they can’t just play like that for sixty minutes instead of twenty.

Compare it to the other night in San Jose, and it's a slight, subtle improvement.

“The previous game against San Jose was just horrible," began Zach Hyman. "We were flat. And this game we were better. There’s just some lapses in our game that result in high danger chances, and those are tough. We would love it if the other team would give us lapses like that, right?

"So (there's) things that you can clean up just by being sharper, being more desperate, having more urgency in your game. And I think we showed it in the third period. That’s a result of playing better all around.”

Connor Murphy Embraces Oilers Pressure: “Winning Is the Top Priority”New acquisition Connor Murphy revealed trade details after coming to the Oilers, his eagerness to play meaningful games, and why Edmonton's pressure is a privilege.

Hyman’s describing a team that’s been capable of playing well all season but still can’t consistently put together a full sixty-minute effort. Those lapses he’s talking about aren’t some new development that crept into their game recently. They’ve been there, showing up at the worst possible times, and at some point, “we can clean it up” needs to actually become cleaning it up.

Tuesday’s win was the kind of game the Oilers themselves have criticized. Needing five goals because you gave up four isn’t sustainable, and everyone in that room knows it. This a team, and a group of players, who have gone as far as you can without winning it all, and they know a 5-4 overtime win over Ottawa isn’t it.

“We don’t want to be putting ourselves in that position, continued Hyman. "But sometimes you need a game like that where you can come back and it’s a complete team effort, and you’re able to dominate a third period and win a game. So I thought it was a good one for us, and hopefully a springboard for better games.”

Oilers Aren't Accepting Any Excuses For Recent PerformanceForget fatigue theories. Oilers players demand better performance, refusing to let past success excuse current struggles.

A springboard is an optimistic outlook, and sure, maybe it is. Stranger things have happened. But the Oilers have had plenty of moments this season that felt like turning points and then weren’t, so forgive anyone for not getting too excited about an overtime win against a mediocre team in early March.

“We don’t have huge smiles on our face, we’re not coming out of this game patting ourselves on the back," said Hyman. "We’ve been to the finals, we know what it takes. We know what type of hockey you have to play.

"Again, having said that, there are positives, and we know we can come back in games, and there are going to be some of those, but if you want to be successful, you got to keep the puck out of your net. And I think we are capable of doing that. We just have to do it more often and consistently.”

The State Of The Oilers And Their Playoff PositionTake a look at the NHL standings and spend a few minutes with the games played column. The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/edmonton-oilers#google_vignette">Edmonton Oilers</a> have played more games than just about anyone in the league, and they're sitting third in the Pacific at 29-24-8 while other teams in the Pacific have multiple games in hand.

They keep coming back to the word "capable," and it’s accurate. This is absolutely a capable hockey team. But capability without consistency is just potential, and potential doesn’t get you very far when the games actually matter. On their best nights, the Oilers look like a genuine contender.

The issue is that their best nights and their worst nights have been showing up in no particular order, and time is running out to figure it out.

Bookmark The Hockey News Edmonton Oilers team site to never miss the latest news, game-day coverage, and more. Add us to your Google News favourites, and never miss a story.

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Jalen Green scored 20 points, Grayson Allen had 18 and the Phoenix Suns beat the NBA-worst Sacramento Kings 114-103 on Tuesday night to sweep the four-game season series.

Seventh in the West at 35-26, the Suns won their second straight and got back Devin Booker after the star guard missed four games because of a right hip injury. He scored 14 of his 17 points in the first half.

Collin Gillespie scored 17 points — hitting 5 of 8 3-pointers — and had nine assists and six rebounds. Oso Ighodaro added 14 points and 14 rebounds. Phoenix is without Dillon Brooks because of a fractured left hand.

The Suns used a 14-0 run in the third quarter to turn a 63-62 deficit into a 76-63 lead. Royce O’Neale capped the run with consecutive 3-pointers.

Maxime Raynaud had 22 points — on 10-of-12 shooting — and 10 rebounds for Sacramento in the opener of a five-game homestand. The Kings dropped to 14-49. They are 2-3 following a franchise-worst 16-game losing streak.

Precious Achiuwa added 18 points, DeMar DeRozan had 17 and Russell Westbrook 16. Kings forward Keegan Murray missed his third straight game because of ankle injury.

Phoenix led 59-55 at the half. Ighodaro had 12 points and 10 rebounds in the half, and Achiuwa had 16 points for Sacramento.

Up next

Suns: Host Chicago on Thursday night.

Kings: Host New Orleans on Thursday night.

___

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

The NBA player who had the league's second-longest active games played streak saw that spell snapped over the weirdest reason.

San Antonio Spurs forward Harrison Barnes had played in 364 consecutive games, trailing only New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges' longest active streak of 616 games. But on Tuesday, March 3, ahead of San Antonio's game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Spurs coach Mitch Johnson revealed that Barnes was a late addition to the injury report.

Per Johnson, Barnes woke up from a pregame nap with a sore left ankle.

“He’s with the medical staff now,” Johnson told reporters prior to the game. “Hoping it’s nothing serious, but I don’t have much information.”

Barnes was initially listed as questionable, though he would go on to miss the game to snap his streak. The Spurs dominated Philadelphia, winning by 40 points, 131-91. Eight different Spurs scored double figures and all but one of the 13 players who appeared in the game scored a point.

This marked the first time since Dec. 4, 2021 that Barnes missed a game, when he was a member of the Sacramento Kings.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Nap injury halts Harrison Barnes' consecutive game streak

GOLD COAST, Australia (AP) — Sara Didar choked back tears as she shared the concerns of the Iranian soccer team for their families and loved ones at home amid the war while they're in Australia contesting the Women’s Asian Cup.

“Obviously we’re all concerned and we’re sad at what has happened to Iran and our families in Iran,” Didar said in comments translated to English during a news conference Wednesday on the eve of a Group A game against Australia.

"I really hope for our country to have good news ahead. And I hope that my country will be strongly alive.”

The 21-year-old striker was part of the squad that stood in silence as the Iran anthem played at the Gold Coast Stadium before their opening loss to South Korea on Monday.

The squad and management arrived in Australia well before the strikes by Israel and the U.S. on Saturday that led to the broader conflict.

Head coach Marziyeh Jafari and players declined to comment on the war or the death of the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during their first official news conference of the tournament on Sunday.

On Wednesday, an Asian Football Confederation moderator asked reporters before the scheduled pre-match news conference to stick with football questions and refrain from asking about the war.

When a question was posed, Didar and Jafari each expressed concerns about the people in Iran.

“Obviously we have so much concern regarding the health of our families and our loved ones and all other Iranian people inside our country, which we are fully disconnected with," Jafari said, highlighting the limited contact because of blackouts in Iran.

“But, here, we are coming to play football professionally and we will do our best to concentrate on our football and match ahead.”

A pocket of Iranian fans at Monday's game waved the red, green and white national colors and some pre-Islamic revolution flags, and chanted support for the team.

Jafari said the team was happy to have the support of Iranian-Australians.

Australia coach Joe Montemurro said he wanted his team and supporters to greet the Iranian squad with compassion. Thursday's game is expected to draw a capacity crowd at Gold Coast Stadium.

“We want to give them the best tournament possible in terms of giving them the experience of a lifetime," Montemurro said. "For us, it’s about just showing our human compassion, our respect and show them how beautiful we are as a country, and how beautiful we are as Australians.”

Australia, the 2010 Asian Cup champions and semifinalist at the 2023 World Cup it co-hosted with New Zealand, opened with a 1-0 win over Philippines and can secure a quarterfinal spot with a win over Iran. The Iranians are in Australia hoping to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil, which means they have to finish in the top eight in the Asian Cup.

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

In the modern era, with NIL and instant transfers, it’s pretty easy for a coach to win in Year 1.

Well, at the top of the sport, that is.

When you get down to lower levels, what you find is that a) you don’t have the NIL resources that bigger schools have, and b) players are much more likely to prove themselves and transfer up.

Therefore, winning at smaller schools is tougher, and winning at most HBCUs is even more difficult.

All of which makes what former Duke guard and assistant Nolan Smith has accomplished this season even more impressive: in his first season at Tennessee State, Smith is currently 21-9 and 15-5 in the OVC.

The OVC tournament starts on Friday, and if Tennessee State wins that, they’ll be playing in the NCAA tournament. And if that happens, there’s a pretty good chance they’ll draw Duke in the first round.

• Nkrumah Named OVC Player of the Year; Smith Earns Co-Coach of the Year
• Nolan Smith wins OVC Coach of the Year at Tennessee State after one season
• Jon Scheyer’s Former Duke Basketball Co-Star Wins OVC COY
• Tennessee State basketball’s Nolan Smith voted OVC co-coach of the year
• Duke legend Nolan Smith Wins OVC Coach of the Year
• Duke legend Nolan Smith Wins OVC Coach of the Year
• Tennessee State’s Nolan Smith named OVC Coach of the Year
• Nolan Smith wins OVC Coach of the Year at Tennessee State after one season

This Duke Basketball season has been immensely satisfying for Blue Devil fans, and that’s on both the men’s and women’s side.

Both teams won regular season ACC Championships and on Tuesday, women’s coach Kara Lawson was named ACC Coach of the Year.

It’s richly deserved.

You’ll remember that when Duke played West Virginia on November 14th, and after a scuffle right before halftime and multiple ejections, the Mountaineers beat Duke with just five available players.

The Blue Devils fell to 3-6 before they started winning, running off 17 straight victories before losing at Clemson.

Duke finished the regular season ranked #13 nationally.

It was truly a remarkable coaching job and the honor is richly deserved.

In addition to Lawson, four other players were honored: Toby Fournier is first-team All-ACC, while according to GoDuke.com, “…senior Taina Mair made her All-ACC debut with first-team honors by the Blue Ribbon Panel and second-team recognition in a vote of the league’s coaches. Senior Ashlon Jackson was voted to the first team by the coaches and to the second team by the Blue Ribbon Panel. Both Fournier and Mair were tabbed to the All-Defensive Team by both voting groups. Freshman Arianna Roberson rounded out Duke’s selections with All-Freshman Team honors for both lists.”

This has been an immensely satisfying season, and of course, it’s not over yet. The ACC Tournament starts on Wednesday, and then it’s on to the NCAAs.

Let’s go Duke!

• Kara Lawson named ACC Coach of the Year as Fournier, Mair, Jackson, Roberson collect all-conference honors
• Duke Lands Four on All-ACC Teams and Lawson Named ACC Coach of the Year
• Duke’s Kara Lawson named ACC Coach of the Year
• ACC releases women’s hoops awards. Here are Duke, NC State, UNC’s honors
• Notre Dame’s Hidalgo, Duke’s Lawson top list of ACC award winners in women’s basketball

The University of Dayton men’s basketball team needed some last-second heroics to beat the Richmond Spiders on Wednesday night.

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Jordan Derkack’s basket with 40 seconds and three free throws lifted Dayton to a 65-60 win over the Spiders at the Robins Center in Richmond, VA.

De’Shayne Montgomery led UD with 15 points while Derkack and Amael L’Etang each finished with 13.

The Flyers have now won six straight games. They improved to 21-9 overall, and 12-5 in the Atlantic 10.

With the win, Dayton clinches the double-bye in next week’s Atlantic 10 Championship in Pittsburgh.

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UD jumped out to a 12-2 lead as Montgomery scored five points, including a fastbreak dunk.

L’Etang’s three-pointer gave the Flyers their largest lead, 17-5, with 13:33 left in the first half. But the Spiders fought back and got as close as 31-29 with 4:11 remaining until halftime.

Bryce Heard and Javon Bennett each made a trey to help Dayton to a 40-32 halftime advantage.

It stayed closed throughout the second half, but UD led 56-48 with 9:32 to play. Richmond scored eight straight points to tie it 56-56 with 5:35 left.

After a timeout, L’Etang’s layup reclaimed the lead, 58-56. Bennett added two free throws to extend it to 60-56.

Richmond’s Will Johnson scored to tie at 60-60 with 1:51 to play.

The Spiders missed a pair of three-pointers that could have given them the lead.

Derkack scored with 39 seconds left to put Dayton up for good, 62-60. He added a free throw to extend it to 63-60. UD got a stop with four seconds left, and Derkack sealed the game with two free throws.

Dayton concludes the regular season when they host VCU at the UD Arena for Senior Night. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.

Pre-game coverage on WHIO Radio begins at 6 p.m. The game will also be carried here at WHIO.com.

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When the Arizona Cardinals made it clear they were moving on from Kyler Murray, the conversation immediately shifted from why to what’s next. Not just for Murray, but for the teams desperate enough at quarterback to consider him.

For Pete Prisco, the discussion isn’t about talent first. It’s about cost.

“Jeff, you have to ask yourself, what’s the price going to be?” Prisco said. “And is the price going to be higher than what Malik Willis is going to get? Is the price going to be higher than what anybody else is going to get?”

That framing matters. Murray isn’t entering the market as an unknown upside swing. He’s a former No. 1 overall pick with multiple strong seasons on his résumé. But he’s also not a blank slate. Prisco didn’t hesitate when comparing him to other options.

“I would rather have Kyler Murray, no questions asked,” he said. “Kyler Murray’s played games, he has experience. I don’t know what Malik Willis can do, he’s only started four games. That’s a small sample size.”

That’s the core of Prisco’s argument. Whatever flaws Murray has shown, he’s at least shown something. Teams know what functional NFL quarterback play from him looks like. They’ve seen the high-end stretches. They’ve seen the playoff appearance. They’ve seen the dynamic mobility.

“Did Kyler Murray have some issues? Yeah,” Prisco admitted. “But he’s had some good games. He’s had some good years.” So the debate isn’t whether Murray can play. It’s whether a team is willing to commit.

“The question you have to ask yourself if you’re in that market is, ‘are you committed to him for the long run?’”

If a franchise views him as a bridge quarterback, the number changes. If it views him as a long-term answer, the structure changes. And that leads to the contract comparison Prisco floated.

“Are you giving him a one-year deal? Two-year deal? How are you doing it? Are you giving him the Justin Fields deal? Two years, $40 million? Is he gonna take that?”

That hypothetical is telling. A short-term, prove-it structure protects the team. But would Murray, with his pedigree and production history, accept something that treats him like a reclamation project? Once Prisco established the financial lens, he started running through potential landing spots, and the answers weren’t clean fits.

“Let’s start with the Jets. Makes sense, they don’t have anybody,” he said.

On the surface, that pairing checks out. The Jets need a quarterback. Murray provides experience and upside. But again, the same question applies: what are you paying, and for how long?

The Minnesota Vikings? “They don’t have any cap room, and it doesn’t seem like a fit in that Kevin O’Connell offense,” Prisco said. Even if there’s a theoretical need, schematic comfort and cap constraints complicate it.

The Pittsburgh Steelers feel conditional.“Looks like Rodgers is gonna come back,” Prisco noted. “If he doesn’t, I think they could be in play.” In other words, Murray becomes a Plan B depending on how another domino falls.

He even tossed out Miami, though without conviction, and then turned to a more layered situation in Atlanta.

“How about the Atlanta Falcons? I don’t know where Michael Penix is coming off of that third knee injury. Are they committed to Michael Penix? This is a new regime.”

That’s the key. New leadership often reopens quarterback evaluations. Commitment to a previous plan isn’t always permanent. Then came the curveball.

“This is going to sound crazy, but the Cleveland Browns,” Prisco said. “We know that Todd Monken likes mobile quarterbacks. When you look at Shedeur Sanders, that’s not who he is. So could he be in play at the Browns?” Murray’s mobility still differentiates him in a league increasingly built around movement.

Ultimately, Prisco’s breakdown wasn’t about finding the perfect schematic match. It was about narrowing the decision to two variables: price and commitment. Murray is better than some of the names he’ll be compared to. Prisco was clear about that. But does better mean worth resetting your cap sheet or tying up your future?

The post “You’re Giving Him a Justin Fields Deal?”: Pete Prisco Names Six Landing Spots for Kyler Murray appeared first on The SportsRush.

With first place in the Pacific Division on the line and hopes to extend their winning streak to six games, the Anaheim Ducks hosted the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday night at Honda Center. 

Colorado entered play on their second game of a back-to-back, having won four of their previous five games, and at the top of the overall NHL standings.

Beckett Sennecke Leads Rookie Scorers, Will Soon Face Fellow Calder Favorites

Ducks’ Poehling is Jack of All Trades

With Troy Terry and Mikael Granlund still unavailable, Ryan Strome served as the team’s lone healthy scratch. Here’s how the Ducks lined up to start this game:

Kreider-Carlsson-Gauthier

Killorn-Poehling-Sennecke

Viel-McTavish-Harkins

Johnston-Washe-Moore

LaCombe-Trouba

Zellweger-Gudas

Mintyukov-Helleson

Lukas Dostal got the start for the Ducks, his seventh in a row, and saved 21 of 26 shots in this game. In Colorado’s crease stood Scott Wedgewood, who stopped 27 of 28.

“They (Colorado) play a complete game. They go four lines deep. They trust all their lines that they play the right way,” Joel Quenneville said of the Avalanche after the game. “Technically, they’re strong. They did a good job of preventing us to get inside in their end, and that might have been the difference.”

Game Notes

The Avs were without one of their better forwards, Artturi Lehkonen, in this game, but they run as cohesive a system as one can find in the NHL, so they didn’t skip a beat with him out of the lineup. Colorado had a unique ability to both clog the neutral zone, especially along the boards, and retrieve pucks before cleanly and efficiently breaking them out of their end, making establishing any semblance of a forecheck a gargantuan undertaking for Anaheim.

Colorado dictated game flow in every situation after the first few shifts, and they carried that until the Ducks made a “too little, too late” push in the third period. At 5v5, the Ducks accounted for 51.11% of the shots on goal and 47.87% of the shot attempts, but just 43.97% of the expected goals. The Ducks couldn’t open seams or get to dangerous rebounds. 

D-Zone Coverage/Dostal: When pucks moved laterally high in the defensive zone, Dostal, who is typically a world-class puck tracking goaltender, had a difficult time with the layers of moving screens Colorado sent his way in this game. As the play shifted sides up top, the new strong-side defenseman was often caught in “no-man’s land,” where he couldn’t challenge or block the shot and couldn’t pick up one of the multiple opposing forwards at the crease. 

These aren’t new areas of concern for the Ducks in defensive zone coverage, but Dostal is usually spectacular enough to paper over many of their issues. Today, he was just human.

Leo Carlsson: Carlsson is continuing to display how effective he can be at full health and is using his speed to drive opposing defensemen back towards their low slot, which opens up east/west lanes high in the zone. 

Even if those lanes aren’t present and he can’t change pace or cut back to the middle, he’s finding ways to get shots off, and with the speed of the Ducks’ attack, they’re able to get to pucks first a lot of the time. It’s like a new approach to establishing a forecheck while also generating a rebound and potential immediate scoring chance.

Radko Gudas: Gudas has done well to play within his skillset this season, contained and keeping plays in front of him. In this game, he was a step slow to read how plays were developing, affecting how quickly he reacted and attempted to get into position. He and his entire blueline had a difficult time sorting which of the multiple opposing netfront forwards each other would cover, and by the time they did, there was an established screen or flurry at the crease.

The Ducks will look to iron out these issues immediately, as they’ll be right back at Honda Center on Wednesday night to host the New York Islanders. 

Anaheim Ducks 2026 Trade Deadline Preview

Takeaways from the Ducks 3-2 Shootout Win over the Flames

Takeaways from the Ducks 5-4 OT Win over the Jets

Atalanta’s general manager for institutional affairs Umberto Marino understands the danger that his club faces against Bayern Munich in the Champions League

“We will face a great global football club like Bayern Munich with great pride in representing Italy,” Marino, told Sky Sport after the round of 16 draw at UEFA headquarters in Nyon (as captured by Ansa). “We will try to make life difficult for them by playing like Atalanta, with courage, desire, and the support of the fans.

“Being in contention for the Italian league, the Champions League, and the Coppa Italia simultaneously is a unique achievement for us. We’ll have to play the match of our lives against Bayern Munich, but if they win, we’ll shake their hand.”

Atalanta proved its mettle in battling back from a 2-0 deficit in the Champions League Playoff Round to ultimate win its tie against Borussia Dortmund 4-3. That same kind of resilience and aggression will be needed against Bayern Munich.

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…

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Liam Rosenior believes that winger Alejandro Garnacho could be getting stick purely based on the way he looks.

The former Manchester United player has always had to deal with getting booed and stick from away fans during games, something that has now carried on to his time at Chelsea as well. He is often on the receiving end to a lot of criticism as well.

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He’s not really came in and banged at Chelsea yet, and he’s mostly just been used as a bench player. But it looks like he could get a start tonight against Aston Villa.

Rosenior on Garnacho

Alejandro Garnacho scores his second goal. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Liam Rosenior says Alejandro Garnacho is ‘knocking on the door to start’ against Aston Villa.

‘Garna is a top player,’ said Rosenior at his pre-match press conference as cited on Chelsea FC. ‘I’ve changed a little bit tactically since I’ve come in; I’ve wanted to dominate midfield areas. That has meant at times I’ve only played with one winger, but Garna is an outstanding player.

‘What I’ve really liked in this period is his reaction to not starting. He’s been training very well and showed real positivity when he came on against Arsenal [on Sunday].

‘He was also magnificent against Hull in the FA Cup and had a huge impact in the game against Arsenal when he scored two goals [Carabao Cup semi-final first leg].’

Rosenior continued: ‘We have got to take into account that Garna is 21 – he’s got huge ability and huge potential.

‘For any young player, the biggest thing to be challenged is your consistency level, but he’s showing really good signs, not just in training but in meetings, that he’s on a really good track. He’s definitely going to get his opportunities to play with the schedule we’ve got coming up.

‘Garna has put himself in a really, really good place the last few weeks and he’s more than knocking on the door to start.

‘He’s a great kid. He’s had a very difficult thing happen in his life recently – and rather than tell me about that, he wanted to put himself forward for a game and only told me after the game when he had to go back home.

‘People make judgments based on the way people look. Garna is a really good character who works really hard every day in training. I know in the end his quality is going to show in a really consistent way.’

In other news today…

Speaking after the defeat to Arsenal from Sunday afternoon, Liam Rosenior, has come out and called for a rule change regarding corners.

Meanwhile, Reece James’ father has been given the task of working with incoming wonderkid Dastan Satpaev in his own youth academy, keeping it all very close to home.

Check out the latest edition of Simon Phillips’ SPTC podcast here:

CINCINNATI — In what came as absolutely no surprise to anybody who has been paying attention the past few weeks, once-ranked and mighty BYU was pulverized 90-68 by red-hot Cincinnati on Tuesday night in front of a sellout crowd of 12,012 at Fifth Third Arena.

That some people believed the Cougars, who have now lost three straight and nine of their last 13, were going to somehow flip a switch and revert to their winning ways seems quite laughable at this point. BYU’s hope for something beside a double-digit seed in the NCAA Tournament took another big hit, and another Quad 1 opportunity fell by the wayside.

Actually, it fell as flat as the Cougars (20-10, 8-9), who inched even closer to having to play in a first-round game in next week’s Big 12 tournament.

And they should be hoping not to have to face the Bearcats (17-13, 9-8), who are playing with a sense of urgency and desperation that somehow has evaded BYU coach Kevin Young’s team the past month, with the exception of that upset of No. 6 Iowa State in the friendly confines of the Marriott Center.

A mark of a mediocre team, or worse, is that it cannot play as well on the road in the face of a raucous crowd as it can at home, and that certainly applies to BYU.

Hoping to make amends for that 79-71 loss at unranked West Virginia three days ago, the Cougars looked even more lost on defense, discombobulated on offense and as out of sorts as at any time this season on Tuesday.

“Dug ourselves in a hole to start the game with just bad offense,” Young said. “They had 13 points off the turnovers in the first half, and that continued in the second.

“It was a 21-4 deficit for points off turnovers. Makes it tough to win. We were just careless with the ball.”

Meanwhile, homestanding Cincinnati played with fire and passion, beating BYU to 50-50 balls all night and taking advantage of all kinds of mismatches to win going away.

Sure, BYU superstar freshman AJ Dybantsa had a game-high 23 points, but he had to hoist up 21 shots to get there, and was 1 of 8 from 3-point range.

Point guard Rob Wright added 21 points on 8-of-16 shooting, but did not have a single assist in 32 minutes.

That’s just not winning basketball.

Wright (four) and Dybantsa combined for nine of BYU’s 15 turnovers, which, as Young noted, Cincy turned into 21 points.

Playing against another soft defensive effort from BYU, Cincy had just seven turnovers, and several of those came in the meaningless last few minutes.

“They just took the ball from us. Really, that’s the bottom line,” Young said. “We got to do a better job with our decision making.

“That’s been an area that we have struggled in. I mean, Rob and AJ had the ball a lot. They had nine turnovers between the two of them, so that’s gotta improve.”

The Cougars did improve in the rebounding department after that was the culprit in their loss to WVU, which is saying something considering Cincy has one of the tallest front courts in the Big 12 — paced by Baba Miller and Moustapha Thiam.

Those two combined for 31 points and 21 rebounds, and completely dominated inside. Super senior Day Day Thomas added 12, and Jizzle James and Jalen Celestine contributed 18 apiece as five Bearcats reached double figures.

Young said he will be happy to see Thomas and James move on after the backcourt duo killed the Cougars last year here as well.

What the Cougars — relegated to being a two-man team, pretty much, without Richie Saunders — would give to have that kind of balance.

Freshman Aleksej Kostic is coming along — he had another decent night off the bench with 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting — but starter Khadim Mboup didn’t score in 12 minutes, starting center Keba Keita was virtually non-existent on offense with two points and four fouls in 21 minutes and Kennard Davis Jr. only had six points and a rebound in 21 minutes.

Young got so desperate that he turned to seldom-used Dominique Diomande for 13 minutes. The Washington transfer played some decent defense and had five rebounds, but it is too late in the season to expect much more from him.

At times, Dybantsa tries to do too much, and it appears that he’s wearing down, along with Wright. Both missed a lot of shots that they normally make.

“Not well,” Dybantsa said when he was asked how he fared against UC’s double-teaming and constant harassment. “Just turned the ball over, careless passes, not being strong with the ball. They were just being physical. I thought I was getting to my spots.

“I could have settled. I mean, I think I did settle for tough (shots) at times. … For the most part, I was getting good looks, but I was just trying to be more physical with the ball and stop making stupid turnovers.”

If there was another stat — aside from points off turnovers — that symbolized the game, it was UC’s 12 fast-break points, to BYU’s two. Nothing fires up a home crowd more than a steal and fast break dunk, and UC had plenty of those.

Nothing comes easy for this BYU offense anymore. The Cougars shot 41% from the floor, 29% from 3-point range and almost got to free-throw line as much as the Bearcats, but couldn’t deliver much there, either.

They were 13 of 19 from the charity stripe.

Dybantsa was 8 of 11 from the line, and was greeted with chants of “overrated” or “Boozer is better” at almost every appearance at the line.

Cincinnati continued to pour it on late — Celestine popped a 3-pointer with 56 seconds remaining and his team up by 19 — but Young had nothing but praise for the Bearcats, who are playing like a team that could do some damage in the Big 12 Tournament.

BYU is not.

“You got to give Wes (Miller) tons of credit,” Young said. “He was feeling like I’m feeling right now a couple weeks ago. He’s a competitive guy.

“He’s a good coach, and he’s done a good job of finding a rhythm with this particular group that he’s playing with right now.”

Offensive rhythm is no longer in BYU’s vocabulary. Dybantsa, who reached 20 points or more for the 23rd time this season, and Wright are Young’s only options. An issue moving forward is that some guys are regressing instead of improving, guys such as Mihailo Boskovic and Keita.

Of course, awful starts also continue to plague the Cougars. There always seems to be a different reason for BYU’s first-half struggles, and on this night it was turnovers. The Cougars committed 10 in the first half, which Cincy turned into 13 points.

Dybantsa pressed too much in the first half, and committed five turnovers to go with eight points, two rebounds and four assists.

He was 3 of 11 from the field in the first half, 0 for 4 from 3-point range.

Young went with his seventh different starting lineup this season, to no avail. Cincinnati went on a 14-2 run early in the first half to take control, get the crowd involved, and force Young into burning a timeout to stop the bleeding.

BYU trailed by as many as 16 points, 37-21, with just under five minutes remaining in the half before Kostic hit some shots late in the half to make it 43-31 at the break.

The Cougars tightened their defense in the final minutes of the first half, but couldn’t sustain it into the second half.

So the Cougars turn their attention to Saturday’s home finale against No. 16 Texas Tech, which was upset by TCU on Tuesday night in Lubbock.

Young said his message to the Cougars after the discouraging loss was a simple one.

“I just want our guys to continue to believe in each other and believe in themselves,” he said.

Not many others are doing that right now, for obvious reasons.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Trent Perry scored 20 points and UCLA led all the way in ending No. 9 Nebraska's three-game winning streak with a 72-52 victory on Tuesday night.

The Bruins (20-10, 12-7 Big Ten) notched 20 wins for the seventh time in 10 years and closed their home schedule with a 17-1 mark at Pauley Pavilion, where they also beat ranked Purdue and Illinois.

Sophomore Perry and junior Eric Dailey Jr. upstaged Tyler Bilodeau, Donovan Dent and Skyy Clark on Senior Night.

Dailey finished with 14 points and eight rebounds. Bilodeau, UCLA's leading scorer at 17.9 points, was held to eight. Dent had four points and eight assists after averaging 15.7 points and 12.7 assists in his last three games. Clark had eight points while in foul trouble along with Dent.

The loss knocked the Cornhuskers (25-5, 14-5) out of a second-place tie with idle Michigan State in the Big Ten. They were led by Sam Hoiberg with 12 points. Rienk Mast and Cale Jacobsen had 11 points each.

Nebraska came in averaging 11.2 3-pointers, with Hoiberg and Pryce Sandfort hitting 42% from long range. But the Bruins' defense held the Huskers to 5 of 24, while UCLA made 10 from long range.

The Bruins led 37-24 at halftime after Perry’s 3-pointer capped an 8-0 run.

Up next

Nebraska: Hosts Iowa on Sunday to close regular season.

UCLA: Visits crosstown rival USC on Saturday to end regular season.

___

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SACRAMENTO – After a full team effort, the Phoenix Suns kept their foot on the gas pedal and defeated the Sacramento Kings by a score of 114-103 on Tuesday night at the Golden 1 Center.

Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) looks on during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

It was the return of Phoenix’s star Devin Booker, and their offense needed the leadership he provides. Booker eased back into action and shot 6-for-19 for 17 points. He didn’t force rhythm; he let it find him, and that restraint mattered. It signaled a shift from dependency to design. Phoenix no longer needs brilliance every possession to win.

Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix forward Oso Ighodaro (11) and Phoenix guard Devin Booker (1) high five during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

Instead, the Suns overwhelmed Sacramento with balance. Jalen Green shot with confidence and control at times, bending the defense just enough to unlock driving lanes and kick-outs. The bench amplified it. Grayson Allen putting up 18 points shows how important he is to their system. Oso Ighodaro’s 14 points reflected interior activity. Rookie Rasheer Fleming added timely minutes that steadied second-unit stretches.

Mar 3, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; Phoenix guard Grayson Allen (8) shoots a three point basket during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

Collin Gillespie also had something to say on Tuesday night. Six of nine from the field. Five of eight from three. That’s not a heater, that’s shot profile discipline. If Gillespie becomes a reliable spacer, Phoenix’s offensive rating in spread lineups could spike dramatically. For Suns fans, the takeaway is simple: sustainability wins in April. Depth survives series, and this game builds belief. Nationally, it reframes the Suns as layered, not top-heavy.

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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen

As the ongoing conflict between Iran and several Western powers intensifies, Thailand’s tourism sector faces significant challenges. The government’s ambitious target to welcome 36 million international visitors in 2026 may be in jeopardy due to airspace closures and the surge in travel costs caused by rerouted flights. As the Middle East conflict spills over, affecting global air travel networks, Thailand – a country that thrives on tourism – could see fewer international visitors arriving, especially those from the Middle East and Europe.

The conflict, which erupted on February 28, 2026, when the US and Israel took military action against Iran, has led to several countries in the region closing their airspace. These closures have created a ripple effect in the aviation industry, with flights being cancelled, rerouted, or delayed, disrupting travelers worldwide. With many flights between Europe and Southeast Asia traditionally passing through the Middle East, the rerouting of these flights has led to higher airfare, adding further financial strain to the industry. In turn, this could deter potential tourists from planning their trips to Thailand in the coming months.

Thailand’s Target at Risk as Conflict Escalates

Thailand’s tourism industry has been hit hard by the geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran. This conflict has directly affected the air routes, primarily impacting travelers from Middle Eastern countries, a key market for Thailand’s booming tourism sector. The immediate concern for the Thai Hotels Association (THA) is that travelers from the Middle East, who usually flock to the country during the high season from June to August, may be dissuaded from traveling due to the safety risks and logistical issues caused by the conflict.

With the airspace closures, the challenge lies not only in delays but also in flight cancellations, leaving some Middle Eastern tourists stranded in Thailand, unable to return home, while others are unable to travel to Thailand in the first place. However, there is still uncertainty about how long the disruptions will last, and whether air traffic routes can be restored or rerouted in a way that allows travel to return to normal levels.

Impact of Airspace Closures on European Travel

Although the main impact of the conflict has been felt in the Middle East, European tourists traveling to Thailand are also feeling the strain. Many flights from Europe that typically pass through Middle Eastern airspace are now being rerouted, resulting in higher ticket prices. Although Europe’s peak travel season for Thailand has already passed, the increased cost of flights may still affect the number of tourists visiting during the low season, potentially leading to a slight decline in arrivals.

Despite these challenges, experts believe that European tourism bookings for Thailand will remain strong. However, the additional costs and longer travel times could deter last-minute bookings, especially among budget travelers. It is expected that tourists from regions with more stable air routes, like Asia, may face delays of up to 20%, particularly if they feel concerned about the ongoing global instability and safety risks.

Middle Eastern Market Faces Serious Setbacks

The most immediate and noticeable impact is being felt in the Middle Eastern tourism sector. Airline disruptions are severely affecting travel from countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, among others. These countries are not only important for Thailand’s tourism economy but also contribute significantly during the peak travel months in the summer.

While the Middle East usually experiences a low travel season from Thailand, this period typically still sees many visitors from the region. The ongoing disruption could undermine the country’s ability to attract a record number of visitors as predicted, possibly leading to a substantial shortfall in arrivals.

Moreover, the Middle East conflict has raised concerns among travelers about their safety, potentially deterring them from booking international trips. Security concerns in the wake of the conflict could have a broad impact on global travel patterns, with travelers around the world looking for destinations perceived as safer and more stable.

Thailand’s Response: Could Domestic Tourism Fill the Void?

The growing uncertainty has prompted industry players to call on Thailand’s incoming government to adopt domestic tourism stimulus measures to offset potential losses from international markets. With the global situation remaining volatile, boosting local tourism could serve as an immediate solution to help stabilize the economy.

Local tourism promotions, particularly in less-visited provinces, may provide a much-needed boost to Thailand’s economy, helping to generate revenue during this unpredictable period. By focusing on promoting local cultural attractions, eco-tourism, and the country’s heritage, Thailand could still maintain strong tourism growth without relying solely on international visitors.

As an additional safeguard, Thailand’s tourism agencies and operators are urging the government to tighten security measures across airports and tourist destinations, reassuring travelers that their safety is a priority. This move would not only boost tourist confidence but also help maintain a positive image of Thailand as a safe and attractive destination.

What Can Tourists Expect in the Coming Months?

Travelers planning a trip to Thailand in 2026 should prepare for some potential challenges related to the ongoing geopolitical situation. Here’s what they should know:

1. Flight Disruptions: Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of flight cancellations, rerouting, or delays, particularly if flying from or through the Middle East.
2. Higher Airfares: Expect higher flight costs due to alternative flight routes and increased demand for available airspace. Booking in advance may help secure better fares.
3. Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to invest in travel insurance that covers unexpected disruptions, especially for those traveling during the volatile months of June through August.
4. Safety and Security: Stay updated on travel advisories and follow official safety guidelines. As always, checking with airlines and local authorities for the latest updates is essential.
5. Domestic Tourism Alternatives: If international travel is affected, consider exploring Thailand’s hidden gems or cultural hotspots. Many regions remain unaffected by the current conflict, offering a unique and authentic travel experience.

The Path Forward for Thailand’s Tourism Sector

While the Iran conflict continues to cause upheaval in the global travel industry, it’s clear that Thailand’s tourism sector will need to adapt quickly to changing circumstances. By strengthening domestic tourism initiatives and ensuring that travelers are reassured about their safety, Thailand can potentially weather the storm and still meet its visitor targets for 2026. However, it’s clear that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East will have far-reaching implications for global tourism – and Thailand is no exception.

An extraordinary situation has unfolded in early 2026. Years of tourism investment across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries produced record growth: official data show over 72.2 million international tourists in 2024 and about US$120.2 billion in tourism revenue[1] supported by around 1.7 million workers[1]. In Saudi Arabia the number of tourism facilities reached 5 622 by the third quarter of 2025[2]. Such achievements signalled the region’s emergence as a travel hub. However, a sudden escalation between Iran and Gulf neighbours has shaken confidence. The GCC Ministerial Council reported that Iranian missiles and drones struck civilian facilities in multiple member states starting on 28 February 2026[3]. This crisis now threatens to undermine years of investment.

Gulf tourism boom fuelled by record investments

Before the conflict the Gulf enjoyed a tourism boom. The GCC Statistical Center recorded 72.2 million inbound tourists across the six countries in 2024, up 51.5 percent from 2019[1]. Revenue reached US$120.2 billion, a 39.6 percent increase over 2019[1], and the sector employed around 1.7 million workers with employment expanding 14.5 percent since 2019[1]. These workers included hundreds of thousands of nationals and expatriates, indicating broad labour participation. Saudi Arabia reported that hotel room occupancy averaged 49.1 percent in the third quarter of 2025 and that 5 622 tourism facilities were operating, an increase of 40.6 percent year‑on‑year[2]. Additional detail from the Saudi statistics showed that average stays were 4.1 nights and that the workforce included about 24.3 percent Saudi nationals, 75.7 percent non‑Saudi employees and 13.3 percent women[2]. Dubai’s tourism department recorded 5.31 million overnight visitors in the first quarter of 2025, up 3 percent[4]. Oman’s three‑ to five‑star hotels welcomed 1 895 159 guests by October 2025, generating revenues close to OMR 184 million and achieving occupancy of around 58 percent. These indicators illustrate how heavy investment in hotels, attractions and infrastructure diversified economies beyond hydrocarbons and created a sizeable labour market.

Joint vision: GCC tourism ministers and Doha 2026

The Gulf states have long pursued joint tourism strategies. At the ninth GCC Ministers of Tourism meeting in Kuwait on 18 February 2025, ministers agreed to strengthen cooperation in promotion, infrastructure, training and statistics[5]. The agenda included plans for unified marketing campaigns, shared data platforms and joint tourism education programmes that would raise service standards across the region. A proposal for a unified tourist visa was also discussed to facilitate travel within the bloc, although implementation details remain under development. Later that year the ministers named Doha the GCC Tourism Capital 2026. A Qatar Tourism release highlighted that the designation was unanimously approved to promote cooperation and sustainable development[6]. Qatar’s advanced infrastructure, including the Hamad International Airport, an extensive airline network, a metro system and flexible visa policies, was cited as evidence of readiness[6]. The ministers expected the choice to stimulate investment and create opportunities for projects in other Gulf states[6]. The initiative aligned with diversification strategies and was expected to encourage private‑sector participation. This momentum, however, now faces a geopolitical test.

Iranian aggression and Gulf unity

At the end of February 2026, the Gulf’s geopolitical balance was disrupted by Iranian missile and drone attacks. The GCC Ministerial Council convened an extraordinary meeting on 1 March 2026 to respond. The official statement said that missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles were launched at Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait, causing damage to civilian infrastructure and threatening lives[3]. It noted that the attacks spread fear among residents and visitors and risked escalation. Foreign ministers condemned the aggression and affirmed that any attack on one member would be considered an attack on all[7]. They emphasised solidarity and reserved the legal right to respond[7]. The statement also stressed the importance of protecting regional waterways and supply chains[7], highlighting that maritime routes carry energy supplies and goods vital to the global economy. By linking security to global trade, the council underscored that destabilisation could have worldwide repercussions. This episode marks a serious challenge for the Gulf tourism sector by undermining the confidence built through years of collaboration and investment.

Travel chaos: advisories and disruptions

The security crisis quickly triggered travel advisories and disrupted movements. On 1 March 2026 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bhutan warned citizens to avoid the Middle East because airspace closures had stranded travellers[8]. Several countries had suspended flights, leaving passengers unable to return home[8]. Bhutanese nationals were told to postpone trips and rely on official updates[8]. The Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported on 2 March 2026 that regional conflict made travel unsafe and unpredictable[9]. Dutch authorities organised repatriation flights from Oman and estimated that about 1 000 Dutch travellers were stranded[10]. Travellers were advised to follow local guidance and register with consular services[10]. The U.S. Department of State maintained a Level 4 advisory for Iran in December 2025, citing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and detention risks[11]. The advisory stressed that no U.S. Embassy operates in Iran and that consular help is unavailable[11]. Such warnings highlight how geopolitics can disrupt tourism and underscore the role of government communication.

Impact on investment and infrastructure

The conflict threatens to undermine decades of investment in Gulf tourism infrastructure. Billions have been spent on airports, hotels and attractions and the sector was gearing up for large events and global exhibitions. Saudi Arabia’s expansion of tourism facilities by 40.6 percent in the third quarter of 2025[2] shows how rapidly capacity has grown. Occupancy rates below 60 percent leave room for growth but also expose vulnerability: if travellers stay away, thousands of beds could remain empty and revenues may plummet. Oman’s hotels hosted 1 895 159 guests by October 2025, with revenues near OMR 184 million and occupancy around 58 percent, demonstrating reliance on steady visitor flows. Dubai’s 5.31 million overnight visitors in the first quarter of 2025[4] illustrate the city’s global appeal but also highlight exposure to disruption. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport and Doha Metro, central to the Tourism Capital 2026 initiative[6], face similar risks. Investor confidence could wane if the crisis persists, slowing diversification and affecting related sectors such as retail, aviation and real estate. The synergy between tourism and hospitality supply chains means that a decline in visitors could affect suppliers, event organisers and transport companies across the region. This risk underlines the importance of maintaining stability.

Resilience and adaptation measures

Despite the crisis the Gulf states have demonstrated resilience. The GCC Ministerial Council affirmed solidarity and the right to defend member states[7], reassuring investors and tourists. Governments activated emergency communication systems: on 3 March 2026 Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged citizens abroad to download an app and register details to facilitate contact[12] and advised those needing consular help to contact diplomatic missions[12]. Such measures support travellers and build confidence by ensuring that citizens can receive instructions quickly. Long‑term diversification plans are also central to resilience. The designation of Doha 2026 places sustainability and cultural tourism at the heart of development[6]. Saudi Arabia has invested in training programmes for hospitality workers and aims to increase the share of women in the tourism workforce[2]. The 2025 statistics showed that women already accounted for 13.3 percent of tourism employees[2], and further initiatives aim to raise this proportion. Human capital development and digital transformation projects are expected to improve service quality and efficiency, making the sector more adaptable. These initiatives, however, depend on de‑escalation and continued investment in safety, communication and capacity building.

Category‑wise summary table

Conclusion

The Gulf region’s tourism sector has achieved spectacular growth through coordinated investment, modern infrastructure and unified strategies. Official data shows a massive expansion in visitor numbers, revenues and employment[1]. Yet this progress now faces an existential threat from the Iranian conflict. Missile and drone attacks on several Gulf states, condemned by the GCC Ministerial Council, have shaken confidence and prompted a wave of travel advisories[3]. Governments such as Bhutan, the Netherlands and the United States have warned citizens to avoid the region and have undertaken repatriation flights[8][10]. These disruptions expose the vulnerability of a sector reliant on stable geopolitics and highlight how tourism is entwined with security. The Gulf states’ response has emphasised solidarity, emergency communication and long‑term diversification. Diplomatic efforts, including engagement with Iran and international partners, will be critical to restoring stability. Continued investment in safety, workforce development and sustainable infrastructure remains essential. Whether the region can sustain its tourism boom amid insecurity will depend on effective diplomacy, the resilience of infrastructure and the capacity to adapt to shocks. The stakes are high: decades of effort to transform the Gulf into a global tourism hub are now balanced against a volatile security environment. Investors, governments and travellers will be watching closely as the region confronts this challenge, and the lessons learned may influence tourism strategies worldwide.

Sources:

[1] Tourism_statistics_20241.pdf
https://gccstat.org/images/gccstat/docman/publications/Tourism_statistics_20241.pdf
[2] GASTAT: Publishes Tourism Establishments Statistics for Q3 of 2025
https://www.stats.gov.sa/en/w/news/152
[3] [7] Statement Issued by the 50th Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Regarding the Iranian Aggression Against the GCC
https://www.gcc-sg.org/en/MediaCenter/News/Pages/news2026-3-1-2.aspx
[4] Tourism Performance Report January – March 2025
https://www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en/research-and-insights/tourism-performance-report-march-2025
[5] Saudi Minister of Tourism Attends the 9th GCC Tourism Ministers Meeting in Kuwait
https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2264791
[6] Doha Named 2026 : GCC Tourism Capital | Qatar Tourism
https://www.qatartourism.com/en/news-and-media/press-releases/doha-named-2026—gcc-tourism-capital
[8] – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade
https://www.mfa.gov.bt/%F0%9D%90%93%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%80%F0%9D%90%95%F0%9D%90%84%F0%9D%90%8B-%F0%9D%90%80%F0%9D%90%83%F0%9D%90%95%F0%9D%90%88%F0%9D%90%92%F0%9D%90%8E%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%98/
[9] [10] Situation Middle East: updates from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs | Weblogs | Government.nl
https://www.government.nl/latest/weblogs/the-work-of-the-ministry-of-foreign-affairs/2026/situation-middle-east-news
[11] Iran Travel Advisory | Travel.State.gov
https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories/iran.html
[12] Qatar news agency
https://qna.org.qa/en/news/news-details

Virgin Atlantic has officially launched its new mobile app, designed to bring a host of travel tools directly to passengers’ smartphones, enhancing the travel experience from booking to boarding. Available now on both iOS and Android, the app promises to simplify and streamline the journey for every traveler.

A New Era of Travel Convenience

The Virgin Atlantic app serves as a personal travel companion, putting all essential features into the palm of your hand. From planning your trip to arriving at your destination, the app ensures a smoother, smarter journey. Passengers can now seamlessly search and book flights, select their preferred seats and meals, and even request special assistance—all from the app. The digital boarding pass feature further ensures a quicker, paper-free check-in experience.

Key Features for a Hassle-Free Journey

• Booking and Customization: The app allows passengers to quickly search for flights, book their tickets, and customize their travel experience by selecting seats and meals.
• Effortless Check-In: With the ability to check in directly through the app, Virgin Atlantic passengers can save time and avoid long queues. The app also features digital boarding passes and passport scanning for faster check-in and smoother airport experiences.
• Real-Time Updates: Travelers can stay informed with live notifications about their flight status, gate changes, and any other important updates in real time, ensuring they never miss a beat.
• AI-Powered Virgin Atlantic Concierge: A unique integration with the airline’s AI-powered Concierge system enhances the app’s usability, offering personalized travel planning support throughout the journey.

Enhanced Flying Club Member Features

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members can take full advantage of the app’s integration with their account. The app provides easy access to track points, monitor tier progress, and manage rewards, all from one central location. The app is also designed with data security and accessibility in mind, ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their needs, can enjoy a seamless digital experience.

What’s Next? Future Features on the Horizon

The mobile app is just the beginning of Virgin Atlantic’s ongoing digital transformation. In upcoming updates, the airline plans to integrate Virgin Atlantic Holidays into the platform. This exciting addition will allow travelers to book both flights and holiday packages through a single, streamlined app, making vacation planning more convenient than ever before.

Strengthening Virgin Atlantic’s Digital Transformation

The launch of the mobile app is a pivotal step in Virgin Atlantic’s larger digital transformation strategy. By blending cutting-edge technology with its renowned customer service, the airline is enhancing its reputation as an innovator in the aviation industry. The app’s launch solidifies the airline’s commitment to creating more personalized and accessible travel experiences for its passengers.

Enhancing the Passenger Experience with Personalized Support

One of the standout features of the new Virgin Atlantic app is its integration with the AI-powered Virgin Atlantic Concierge. This innovative tool offers passengers personalized travel planning assistance, ensuring that every journey is tailored to individual preferences. Whether it’s adjusting travel plans, receiving recommendations for activities, or getting real-time assistance during delays, the Concierge function provides a seamless and supportive travel experience. This advanced feature positions Virgin Atlantic’s app as not just a booking tool, but as a trusted travel companion that anticipates and resolves needs, enhancing passenger satisfaction throughout their journey.

Juha Jaervinen’s Vision

In a statement, Juha Jaervinen, Chief Customer Officer at Virgin Atlantic, expressed his excitement for the app’s release. He described it as a tool designed to make travel “simpler, smarter, and unmistakably Virgin Atlantic.” With an emphasis on ease, speed, and customer satisfaction, the app reinforces the airline’s dedication to providing a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

The introduction of Virgin Atlantic’s new mobile app marks a significant leap forward in enhancing the overall travel experience. By combining user-friendly features, AI-driven assistance, and seamless integration with the airline’s frequent flyer program, the app provides unparalleled convenience for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you’re booking your next flight, staying updated on travel changes, or managing your Flying Club rewards, this new app puts the world of Virgin Atlantic in your pocket.

A powerful Saharan dust plume is set to sweep into Europe this week, bringing hazy skies, colorful sunrises, and occasional dust deposits to various regions. The plume, which will carry sand from North Africa, is expected to have a significant impact on Spain, Portugal, and parts of France, particularly by Friday, before it moves into the North Sea and Scandinavia. While the UK will also experience some effects, they will be much less noticeable, according to experts from the EU’s Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS).

As this phenomenon unfolds, travelers and residents in the affected areas should be prepared for potential disruptions to air quality, visibility, and, in some cases, transportation. The dust could also lead to “wet deposition” due to rainfall, further increasing the effects on air quality and visibility, especially in regions closest to the source of the dust.

What Is Causing the Saharan Dust Plume?

The arrival of this Saharan dust plume is largely driven by a low-pressure system known as Storm Regina, which has been transporting dust directly from North Africa into Europe. Unlike previous dust events in February, this one is expected to be more intense and direct, with dust being blown straight from the Saharan desert into the Iberian Peninsula and the western Mediterranean. This system marks a particularly “remarkable” episode, according to Mark Parrington, a senior scientist at Copernicus.

The dust transport process, though fairly common during this time of year, is more prominent in this instance due to the strength of Storm Regina’s winds. These winds have helped push dust directly into the Mediterranean region, resulting in more visible effects, particularly at sunrise and sunset, with deeper orange hues painting the sky.

Impact on Spain, Portugal, and France

As the dust plume moves into Europe, Spain, Portugal, and southern France will experience the most pronounced effects. The impact on these regions will be most noticeable due to their proximity to the Saharan source. The dust will lead to hazy skies, reduced visibility, and a decrease in air quality, which could affect outdoor activities, particularly for those with respiratory issues.

For business travelers and tourists in Spain and Portugal, it is crucial to monitor air quality levels, especially in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon, where the dust is expected to be most intense. Air quality could dip to levels that might disrupt outdoor events or sightseeing activities, and travelers should take extra precautions if they have any health conditions aggravated by poor air quality.

Potential Effects on Air Travel in Europe

Saharan dust has the potential to affect air travel in regions where visibility is reduced, especially when landing and taking off. Previous dust events have disrupted air travel, and this one could have similar effects, particularly in regions with lower visibility. Travelers should stay informed about flight schedules and potential delays.

For those traveling through airports in Spain, Portugal, and southern France, it’s advisable to check flight statuses regularly for any potential delays or cancellations caused by low visibility. While flight disruptions are not guaranteed, it’s always best to plan ahead, especially if traveling to or from airports in the affected regions.

What to Expect in Other European Regions

While Spain, Portugal, and France will be most affected by the Saharan dust plume, the impact will be more marginal as the plume moves northward toward the North Sea and Scandinavia. The dust will still affect the visibility and air quality, but to a much lesser degree. The United Kingdom could experience some dust, but the effects will be far more subtle, with less disruption to daily activities.

Travelers in northern Europe should be prepared for a lighter dusting, which may cause minor issues with air quality, but nothing as intense as what’s expected in the Iberian Peninsula. For those planning to visit these regions, the best advice is to monitor weather updates and air quality reports.

How This Affects Tourists and Business Travelers

For tourists, the Saharan dust plume offers an opportunity to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets in Europe, with the sky painted in rich orange and red hues. However, this beauty comes with a cost—reduced visibility and possible health impacts due to the dust. Those with respiratory conditions or sensitivities to airborne particles should take precautions, such as wearing face masks and limiting outdoor activities.

Business travelers should also be aware that air travel could be disrupted, particularly in southern Europe. Those with tight schedules should stay updated on flight statuses and air quality reports. The haze and dust may also affect the perception of the destination, especially for those seeking clear skies for outdoor meetings or events.

What Travelers Can Do to Prepare:

1. Check Air Quality and Flight Updates: Keep track of air quality reports, especially if traveling to Spain, Portugal, or southern France. Monitoring flight statuses regularly will help you stay informed about any potential delays or cancellations due to low visibility.
2. Plan for Hazy Skies: While the dust will create beautiful sunrises and sunsets, it may also obscure the clarity of daytime views. Tourists planning sightseeing tours or outdoor activities should take this into account and plan for the reduced visibility.
3. Health Precautions: Travelers with respiratory issues should consider wearing face masks and avoid prolonged exposure to outdoor dust. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, check with your healthcare provider for advice on managing exposure.
4. Adjust Outdoor Plans: If you’re planning outdoor activities, it’s a good idea to have an alternative indoor plan in case the dust affects air quality or visibility.

Key Points to Remember:

• Major Regions Affected: Spain, Portugal, and southern France will experience the most significant impacts from the Saharan dust plume.
• Weather Effects: Expect hazy skies, colorful sunrises, and sunsets, along with a decrease in visibility.
• Air Travel Disruptions: Air travel could be impacted by reduced visibility, particularly in southern Europe.
• Health and Safety: Those with respiratory conditions should take precautions and avoid outdoor exposure when possible.
• Tourism Impact: The dust plume offers an opportunity to experience stunning natural visuals but may limit sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Quick Tips for Tourists and Travelers:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly check air quality reports and flight status updates to ensure minimal disruption to your travel plans.
2. Pack Accordingly: Bring protective masks if you’re sensitive to dust or have respiratory issues, and be prepared for reduced visibility during sightseeing.
3. Adjust Plans for Hazy Skies: Prepare for hazy weather, especially if you’re planning to take photos or enjoy outdoor sightseeing.
4. Monitor Health: Pay attention to how the dust affects your health, and adjust outdoor activities as needed to minimize exposure.

While the Saharan dust plume may disrupt air travel and affect visibility, it also presents an opportunity to witness one of nature’s most striking spectacles in Europe. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience despite the challenges posed by this unique weather phenomenon.

Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, on Wednesday extended warm greetings on the occasion of Holi, emphasising the festival’s enduring message of harmony, renewal and togetherness. In his message, he underlined the broader significance of the celebration, describing it as a moment that reflects the triumph of good over evil, the value of friendship and forgiveness, and the shared spirit of humanity.

His remarks acknowledged the importance of Holi for Australians of Hindu and South Asian heritage, while also recognising how the festival has become part of the wider multicultural fabric of the nation.

A Festival Rooted in Timeless Values

Holi, widely known as the Festival of Colours, carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning. In marking the occasion, Albanese drew attention to the festival’s universal themes, noting that it represents renewal, reconciliation and hope.

He highlighted that for many families across Australia, Holi is an opportunity to reconnect with shared history, heritage and tradition. At the same time, its core message—celebrating goodness, nurturing friendships and embracing forgiveness—resonates far beyond any single community.

The festival, he suggested, offers a symbolic chance for individuals and communities alike to renew their bonds and reaffirm their shared humanity.

Holi’s Growing Place in Modern Australia

The Prime Minister also reflected on how Holi has grown into a widely embraced celebration across Australia. Once observed primarily within the Indian and South Asian diaspora, the festival is now recognised as a vibrant and inclusive event in cities and towns nationwide.

From community gatherings in Canberra to large-scale celebrations in Sydney and Melbourne, Australians of diverse backgrounds participate in the colourful festivities each year. Public parks and cultural venues come alive with music, dance, traditional cuisine and the joyful exchange of coloured powders.

Albanese noted that this enthusiastic embrace of Holi reflects the broader Australian story—one shaped by migration, cultural exchange and mutual respect. The festival’s joyful expression of colour, love and new beginnings has become a highlight of the country’s multicultural calendar.

Diversity as a National Strength

In his message, the Prime Minister underscored the broader importance of cultural celebrations in strengthening national unity. He pointed out that Australia benefits immensely from the beliefs, customs and experiences brought by people from around the world.

The contributions of the Indian Australian community, one of the country’s fastest-growing diaspora groups, were acknowledged as part of this wider narrative. Across sectors such as education, healthcare, technology and business, Indian Australians have played an increasingly prominent role in shaping modern Australia.

Holi, in this context, stands not only as a religious or cultural observance but also as a celebration of the values that underpin Australia’s multicultural identity—respect, inclusion and shared belonging.

Beyond the Colours: Building Lasting Connections

Albanese expressed hope that the spirit of Holi would extend beyond the day’s celebrations. While the vibrant hues of gulal may fade, the deeper purpose of the festival—strengthening friendships and building communities—remains enduring.

He conveyed his wish that the occasion would inspire Australians to continue fostering understanding and unity long after the festivities conclude. The celebration, he indicated, serves as a reminder that diversity and shared identity can coexist harmoniously.

Narendra Modi Extends Holi Greetings in India

Earlier in the day, India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, also marked the occasion by extending greetings to citizens across the country.

Through a message shared on the social media platform X, Modi conveyed his good wishes for happiness, prosperity and success, expressing hope that the festival would bring joy and positivity to all.

His message echoed the festive spirit seen across India, where Holi is celebrated with exuberance in towns and cities alike. Communities gather to sing, dance, share sweets and take part in the traditional throwing of colours.

Understanding Holi: The Festival of Colours

Holi is one of the most eagerly awaited Hindu festivals, symbolising the arrival of spring and the end of winter. Also known as Rangwali Holi, Badi Holi and Dhulandi in different regions, the festival represents renewal, vitality and the blossoming of new beginnings.

The celebrations traditionally begin with Holika Dahan, a ceremonial bonfire that signifies the victory of good over evil. The following day, known for its colourful festivities, sees people of all ages come together in open spaces to celebrate with music, dance and vibrant powders.

Over time, Holi has transcended geographical and cultural boundaries, evolving into a global celebration of joy and unity. In multicultural societies such as Australia, it stands as a vivid example of how traditions from around the world can find a welcoming home and enrich the broader community.

As leaders in both Canberra and New Delhi marked the festival, the shared emphasis remained clear: Holi is not only a celebration of colour, but also a reaffirmation of hope, harmony and collective renewal.

Thailand, often associated with its bustling streets and pristine beaches, holds many treasures beyond its iconic tourist attractions. While most visitors flock to popular sites like the Grand Palace or Patong Beach, Thailand’s lesser-known corners offer an incredible blend of serenity, culture, and adventure. This article takes you beyond the typical tourist trail to explore the hidden gems of Bangkok and Krabi.

From quiet, culturally rich neighborhoods to eco-conscious luxury resorts nestled in nature’s embrace, Thailand provides an enriching travel experience that blends tradition with modernity. In Bangkok, areas like Thonburi offer a fascinating historical and cultural journey, while Krabi beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers with its stunning coastline and conservation-driven tourism.

A Tranquil Day in Bangkok: Culture and Serenity

Bangkok is renowned for its energetic pace and urban chaos. However, hidden within the city’s labyrinth are peaceful sanctuaries that remain largely untouched by the hustle and bustle. One such gem is the Khao Mor (Turtle Garden) in the Thonburi district. This tranquil retreat, established nearly 200 years ago, offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. The garden’s serene pond, lush plant life, and Buddhist stupas create a peaceful environment, making it an ideal escape from the city’s busy streets. The Turtle Garden is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving pockets of nature amidst urban growth.

Just a short walk from this peaceful garden, Wat Prayun, an old temple that survived the ravages of time, offers a peek into Thailand’s rich history. The Lankan-style chedi, standing tall despite bombings and other threats, serves as a reminder of the city’s resilience. Visitors can also explore the nearby Guan Yu Shrine, one of Bangkok’s oldest Chinese shrines, where locals still perform ancient rituals to seek blessings for their businesses. This unique blend of cultural traditions offers travelers a rare insight into Bangkok’s multifaceted heritage.

Luxury Meets Local Tradition at The Peninsula Bangkok

For those seeking a luxury stay with an authentic twist, The Peninsula Bangkok offers an exquisite experience. Perched along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the hotel’s opulent rooms provide breathtaking views of the waterway and the city. However, what truly sets this hotel apart is its commitment to offering guests an immersive local experience.

The hotel’s Tak Bat Alms Giving Ceremony allows guests to partake in a centuries-old tradition. Here, food offerings are made to Buddhist monks, reflecting the spiritual side of Thai culture. The Peninsula also curates unique experiences, such as tea blending and floral design workshops, which provide travelers with an opportunity to connect with Thailand’s artistic heritage.

Krabi: Nature’s Paradise for Adventure and Relaxation

Travelers seeking adventure and relaxation will find Krabi to be a perfect getaway. Known for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and pristine beaches, Krabi offers both tranquil retreats and thrilling activities. One of the standout luxury resorts here is Rayavadee Krabi, which blends seamlessly into the natural landscape of the region. Situated amidst coconut groves, the resort’s mushroom-topped pavilions and earthy tones complement the environment, offering a harmonious escape.

What makes Rayavadee truly special is its commitment to conservation tourism. The resort is part of a broader community effort to protect the natural beauty of Railay Beach and its surrounding areas. All beaches remain open to the public, ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy the stunning natural environment while respecting its preservation.

The Grotto: A Unique Dining Experience

No trip to Krabi is complete without visiting The Grotto, Rayavadee’s signature restaurant. Set inside a natural cave, this Mediterranean-inspired dining venue offers stunning views of the Phranang Beach and the Andaman Sea. Guests dine on locally sourced delicacies, with the restaurant’s open-air design providing a perfect spot to witness a mesmerizing sunset. The blend of natural beauty and culinary excellence makes The Grotto a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

Island Hopping in Krabi: From Ko Poda to Chicken Island

Krabi’s clear, turquoise waters and white sand beaches are ideal for island hopping. Ko Poda, known for its crystal-clear waters, offers an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling, where travelers can explore the vibrant underwater life. Similarly, Chicken Island, with its iconic rock formation resembling a chicken’s head, provides an intriguing spot for photos and relaxation. For those looking for a quirky experience, the phenomenon of Thale Waek — where low tide reveals a sandbar connecting three islands — is an absolute must-see.

Rock Climbing and Adventure in Railay Beach

Beyond its serene beaches, Krabi is a hub for adrenaline junkies. Railay Beach is famous for its limestone cliffs that attract rock climbers from all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner, Railay offers a range of climbing routes suitable for all levels. The scenic views from the top of these cliffs make the experience even more rewarding.

Travel Tips for Exploring Bangkok and Krabi

• Explore Thonburi for a True Cultural Experience: Skip the usual tourist spots in Bangkok and head to the Thonburi district for a unique cultural immersion.
• Book a Local Experience at The Peninsula: Don’t just stay at a luxury hotel—engage with the local culture through curated experiences like the Tak Bat Alms Giving Ceremony.
• Respect Nature in Krabi: Whether you’re staying at Rayavadee or hiking on Railay Beach, be mindful of your environmental impact and support sustainable tourism efforts.
• Island Hopping Essentials: When island hopping, pack essentials like sunscreen, water, and proper footwear for exploring the rocky beaches and islands.

An Unforgettable Thai Getaway

Thailand’s Bangkok and Krabi present a unique combination of cultural richness, serene landscapes, and adventurous activities. From the tranquil corners of Thonburi to the rugged beauty of Krabi’s islands, travelers can find experiences that are as authentic as they are exhilarating. Whether you’re seeking luxury, local experiences, or an adventure in nature, these destinations offer something for every kind of traveler.

Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains are gaining recognition as one of Africa’s top adventure tourism destinations, thanks in part to significant investments in safety and rescue training for park staff. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park, known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” is seeing a surge in visitors as enhanced safety standards build confidence in both local and international travelers. This development represents a key milestone in Uganda’s growing appeal as a premier location for mountaineering and adventure travel.

Boosting Visitor Confidence: Safety Training in the Rwenzori Mountains

In recent months, the Uganda Tourism Authority has made strides in improving safety protocols within the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The launch of a specialised Training of Trainers programme has played a pivotal role in equipping key personnel — including tour guides, rangers, porters, and cooks — with advanced skills. The aim is to ensure at least one thousand frontline workers are trained to handle safety and medical emergencies during mountain expeditions.

The curriculum provided participants with internationally recognised skills, including Leave No Trace outdoor ethics, which promotes responsible interactions with the natural environment, and Wilderness Advanced First Aid. Additionally, staff received training in life-saving Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) techniques. These competencies are crucial for managing medical emergencies in a challenging environment like the Rwenzori Mountains, where visitors are exposed to unpredictable weather and rugged terrain.

With these enhanced capabilities, park staff can provide immediate and professional assistance in emergencies, improving the overall safety and experience for trekkers. This initiative not only strengthens the park’s appeal but also highlights Uganda’s commitment to creating a secure environment for adventure tourism.

Growing Popularity of Rwenzori Mountains Trekking

The Rwenzori Mountains offer a unique trekking experience that attracts seasoned mountaineers and adventure seekers. The mountains feature snow-capped peaks that rise dramatically near the equator, creating landscapes that are unparalleled on the African continent. The park’s distinctive alpine vegetation, including giant lobelias and groundsels, is another highlight, making it an even more appealing destination for nature enthusiasts.

The recent surge in visitors to the Rwenzori Mountains demonstrates the growing interest in adventure travel across Africa. During the 2023-2024 financial year, the park welcomed 7,703 visitors, a figure that rose sharply to 10,483 in the following year. This 36% increase in visitor numbers can be attributed to several factors, including improved marketing efforts, upgraded infrastructure, and, importantly, the new safety protocols that inspire greater confidence among international trekkers.

Europe, North America, and Asia remain key source markets for the park’s visitors, with many of them seeking authentic, challenging wilderness experiences. The steady rise in international arrivals reflects a broader trend in the tourism industry, where more travellers are prioritising destinations that offer both adventure and robust safety measures.

The Role of Safety in Adventure Tourism

For African travel professionals, the Rwenzori Mountains’ recent success highlights the importance of safety in promoting adventure destinations. As international tourists continue to seek mountaineering and trekking experiences in remote areas, destinations that invest in safety training and infrastructure will be able to position themselves as attractive alternatives to established international trekking spots.

The investment in safety standards in Uganda’s tourism sector is already paying off, with a significant increase in visitor satisfaction and repeat bookings. Furthermore, it aligns with the growing demand for adventure tourism that is both exciting and secure. When adventure travelers choose their destinations, safety is often one of the most important factors, particularly when exploring rugged and high-altitude terrains like the Rwenzori Mountains.

The Economic Impact of the Surge in Visitors

The rise in visitor numbers to the Rwenzori Mountains has had a positive impact on Uganda’s economy. Increased tourism spending is supporting local businesses, from accommodations and restaurants to tour operators and equipment providers. With the number of visitors climbing steadily, Uganda has seen growth in both job creation and local investment. Many of the newly trained staff members are gaining new employment opportunities, further contributing to the region’s economic development.

Moreover, the enhanced safety protocols are likely to attract more high-value visitors who are looking for authentic adventure experiences in a secure setting. For African tourism operators, the success story of the Rwenzori Mountains offers valuable insights into the importance of investing in training, safety, and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of adventure travelers.

A Model for Other African Adventure Destinations

Uganda’s strategy of combining natural attractions with professional safety training can serve as a model for other African nations looking to grow their adventure tourism sectors. Destinations like Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia that offer trekking, mountaineering, or wildlife safaris can benefit from similar investments in safety standards. By developing high-quality, secure experiences, African countries can compete with international adventure hubs like Nepal and Peru.

Looking forward, Uganda plans to continue expanding its tourism offerings in the Rwenzori region. Additional investments in infrastructure, including better trails, accommodation, and transportation options, will make the Rwenzori Mountains even more accessible and attractive to international travelers. The combination of rugged natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and professionally trained staff will ensure that Uganda remains a premier adventure tourism destination in Africa.

Conclusion: The Future of Adventure Tourism in Uganda

The Rwenzori Mountains are quickly becoming a top-tier adventure destination in Africa, thanks to significant investments in safety training and infrastructure. The recent surge in visitor numbers is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to providing an exceptional, secure experience for trekkers and adventure seekers.

For travel professionals, promoting the Rwenzori Mountains to clients seeking authentic adventure in a safe environment is now more viable than ever. As visitor numbers continue to rise and safety standards improve, Uganda’s adventure tourism sector is poised for continued growth, attracting travelers from around the globe who are eager to explore one of Africa’s most captivating landscapes.

Sicily’s tourism sector has seen an unprecedented response to its recent call for investments, with over €1 billion in applications submitted by various stakeholders. This impressive figure reflects the growing interest in the tourism industry on the island, particularly in the accommodation sector. The Irfis FinSicilia received 2,713 applications by the end of February, marking a new milestone in Sicily’s tourism development efforts. While the actual financial availability for the program is €135 million, the large volume of applications demonstrates the high demand for support and the sector’s eagerness to improve and expand its offerings.

The applications for funding are part of a broader initiative to support tourism through the 2021-2027 Development and Cohesion Fund. The call has sparked significant interest from various players in the tourism industry, ranging from small enterprises to larger businesses. With such a high volume of applications, the island’s tourism sector is positioned to see substantial investments aimed at enhancing the quality and sustainability of its tourism infrastructure.

Financial Breakdown: The Scale of Demand vs Available Resources

The figures presented in the call for applications show a clear gap between the demand for funding and the resources available. A total of €474 million was requested under the ‘de minimis’ regime, while €624 million was requested under the ‘exemption’ regime. The €135 million available is set to be allocated through a ranking process, where projects will be evaluated based on specific criteria. The subsidies, which include non-repayable funds, will range from €50,000 to €3.5 million per project, depending on the type of intervention and the scale of the investment.

The high demand for funding shows that there is a clear commitment within the Sicilian hospitality sector to improve facilities, expand offerings, and renovate existing accommodations. This level of interest reflects the sector’s strategic importance for the island’s economy, particularly in the wake of the challenges faced by the tourism industry globally. The gap between requested and available resources, however, will necessitate a careful evaluation process to ensure that the most impactful projects are prioritized.

Who Can Access the Funding and What Interventions Are Supported?

The call for applications is open to a wide range of businesses in the tourism sector, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, campsites, tourist villages, and holiday homes. The funding is designed to support businesses of all sizes, from micro enterprises to larger players in the industry. This inclusivity ensures that businesses throughout Sicily can benefit from the initiative, provided they meet the necessary criteria.

The funding can be used for a variety of interventions, such as renovations, expansions, or the reactivation of existing structures. Additionally, the recovery or conversion of buildings for new tourism-related activities is also eligible for funding. This approach not only aims to improve the quality of the existing tourism offer but also encourages regeneration and sustainable development by repurposing unused or underutilized properties.

An important element of the funding is its focus on sustainability. The call specifically states that investments must adhere to local building codes and regulations, with no increase in cubage allowed beyond what is permitted by current planning laws. This focus on territorial sustainability is crucial for a region like Sicily, where much of the economy is reliant on the preservation of its landscapes, coastline, and historic centers.

A Time-Limited Opportunity for Transformation

One of the key aspects of this funding opportunity is its time constraint. After receiving financial support, businesses will have 24 months to complete the proposed interventions. This timeline adds an element of urgency to the projects, as businesses must quickly transform their applications into tangible developments. The NRC’s focus will likely fall on the speed and quality of the projects, with the goal of creating competitive structures that enhance Sicily’s tourism appeal.

This two-year window for implementing funded projects will test the ability of businesses to turn their applications into actionable results. The future success of these initiatives will depend not only on the initial quality of the projects but also on how effectively they can be carried out within the given timeframe. For many businesses, the pressure to execute within this period may serve as a driving force for improvement and innovation in the Sicilian hospitality sector.

Political Support for Tourism Development

The announcement of this funding program has received strong backing from Sicilian authorities, who see tourism as a key sector for economic diversification. Renato Schifani, the President of the Sicilian Region, emphasized the strategic importance of tourism in the regional economy, noting that the response to the funding call demonstrates the widespread interest in improving the island’s offerings. Schifani expressed his commitment to supporting the growth of Sicily’s tourism sector and underscored the government’s role in facilitating investments that will generate long-term economic benefits for the island.

This political support is critical, as it aligns with broader efforts to diversify Sicily’s economy, reducing reliance on more traditional industries like agriculture and fishing. Tourism has been identified as a vital engine for economic growth, and the government’s support in funding development projects further solidifies its commitment to fostering a strong, sustainable tourism sector.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism in Sicily

As Sicily moves forward with these initiatives, the island’s tourism sector is on track for substantial growth. While the €135 million available in the current funding cycle may be insufficient to meet the demand for investment, the high level of interest in the program signals a robust commitment to enhancing Sicily’s tourism infrastructure.

Looking ahead, the island’s tourism development efforts will focus on fostering sustainability, improving the quality of the visitor experience, and ensuring that tourism growth benefits all regions of the island. By focusing on innovation and territorial sustainability, Sicily can create a more resilient and diversified tourism sector that will continue to attract international visitors for years to come.

The Asia Pacific (APAC) travel market is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, and its projected growth to $522.7 billion in gross bookings by 2028 underscores the region’s pivotal role in the global tourism industry. The allure of APAC destinations continues to rise, driven by the increasing purchasing power and evolving travel habits of regional travelers. As the travel sector adapts to these trends, operators like us are crafting customized itineraries that blend flexibility, authentic experiences, and value for money, catering to couples, solo travelers, and families alike.

Behavioral Shifts and Travel Trends in APAC

One of the most notable changes in the travel behavior of APAC tourists is the growing preference for booking during peak seasons, albeit within shorter windows. Many travelers now seek flexible options, such as refundable tickets or the ability to modify flight dates, often referred to as “fly-as-you-wish” flights. This shift is particularly evident among Chinese travelers, who now embrace last-minute bookings and opt for weekend getaways that offer the possibility of spontaneous changes.

This evolving mindset places a premium on authentic, meaningful travel moments rather than rigidly fixed itineraries. Tour operators, including ourselves, have quickly adapted by incorporating these behavioral changes into our offerings. We provide seamless flexibility through fintech-enabled booking systems, allowing travelers to adjust their plans effortlessly, ensuring they can savor the full experience without unnecessary stress.

Emerging Traveler Segments in APAC

As travel demand increases across APAC, we see significant growth in a few key segments of the traveler population. The first notable trend is the rising demand for couples trips. Travelers from countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Vietnam are flocking to intimate destinations, looking for escapes that foster connections and memorable experiences. These trips typically focus on serene, romantic getaways, ideal for couples looking to bond in peaceful settings.

Another trend driving growth is the surge in solo female travelers. Post-pandemic, younger women in the region are increasingly channeling their disposable income into independent adventures, a trend that is now embraced socially. This change has given rise to solo travelers seeking not just relaxation but exploration in unique, offbeat locations. We’ve tailored our itineraries to highlight experiential destinations that offer both adventure and cultural immersion, catering to the growing demand for solo travel.

Popular Inbound and Outbound Destinations in APAC

The year 2025 saw Japan drawing 42.7 million international visitors, cementing its position as one of the top APAC destinations. However, tensions between China and Japan have led to a slight dip in the number of Chinese visitors in 2026. Despite this, Japan remains a popular choice for travelers seeking cultural experiences, with cities like Tokyo and Kyoto offering a rich historical and cultural backdrop.

Inbound travel to China is experiencing a revival, especially due to the country’s ease in issuing visas. This has led to increased travel from Southeast Asia, providing a unique opportunity for tour operators to promote “soft power” themed tours that highlight China’s historical and cultural allure. With the growing demand for multi-destination tours, we are curating itineraries that seamlessly connect destinations in Southeast Asia with key Chinese cities.

India’s outbound travel is on an upward trajectory, particularly to long-haul destinations in North Asia and Europe. Projections suggest that by 2040, India’s outbound travel market will be a major force. This insight guides us as we develop premium travel extensions from Southeast Asia, designed for the Indian market’s increasing appetite for global exploration.

Domestic Travel: The APAC Boom

Domestic travel within APAC is experiencing a significant surge in 2026. In particular, 35% of APAC travelers are now choosing local destinations over international ones, with countries like Japan and Thailand reporting an intent of up to two-thirds of their population planning domestic trips. Thailand, for instance, is expecting 210 million domestic trips in 2026, a testament to the growing interest in exploring homegrown destinations.

China is also witnessing historic highs in domestic travel, thanks to the rise of high-speed rail, which has opened up rural gems to tourists who previously might have overlooked these areas. In response, we’ve developed customized domestic packages that leverage the booming middle class and enhanced connectivity between cities, offering unique rail-and-fly combinations that deliver exceptional value.

Affordable Accommodations: Value-Focused Stays for APAC Travelers

In line with the preference for affordable yet comfortable travel, value accommodations remain a staple of our tour offerings. In fact, 73% of APAC travelers prioritize accommodation options that cost under $100 per night. For nearly 39% of our guests, the cost takes precedence over location, and they are happy to sacrifice proximity to main tourist areas in exchange for savings.

Popular destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia are home to budget-friendly hotels priced between $40 and $70 per night, offering excellent value for money. These establishments typically include amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, and swimming pools, ensuring guests receive a comfortable stay without stretching their budgets. Our partnerships with booking platforms like Agoda and OTAs help travelers secure these affordable options in both major cities and lesser-known locales.

For travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the crowded tourist spots, we book 3–4-star hotels in secondary cities like Pattaya, Thailand, or Bandung, Indonesia. These areas offer local charm, and our guests benefit from the personal and immersive experiences that these places provide, all while maintaining a budget-conscious approach.

Looking Ahead: The Future of APAC Travel

Despite rising living costs and higher airfare prices in the region, the APAC travel market is expected to continue growing, albeit at a slower rate. The growth trajectory closely follows the region’s GDP performance, and while low-cost carriers (LCCs) now comprise over 50% of flights in Southeast Asia, operators like us are adapting by providing flexible, value-oriented travel experiences.

Looking ahead to 2026, we are offering dynamic itineraries that cater to diverse budget ranges. Our forward-thinking approach enables travelers to book early for the best deals, with tailored options designed to meet country-specific preferences. For instance, our budget-friendly tours to India cater to travelers seeking experiences under $50, while we offer more premium options for Thailand, with packages that go up to $100 per night.

Adapting to Changing Preferences and Future Growth

As the travel landscape in APAC evolves, so do the needs and preferences of its travelers. By staying attuned to emerging trends, offering flexible options, and providing immersive, authentic experiences, we continue to tailor our offerings to meet the demands of this dynamic market. The future of travel in the Asia Pacific region is bright, and we’re here to ensure that our clients make the most of it, whether they’re exploring the depths of Southeast Asia, the cultural riches of China and Japan, or the evolving domestic offerings within their own countries.

London City Airport is asking for feedback from local residents and stakeholders on its new airspace change proposal. The proposal, which could result in fewer flights and quieter operations, is designed to allow larger, more fuel-efficient aircraft to use a slightly shallower landing approach. The consultation marks an important step in the airport’s long-term plans for growth and sustainability.

The proposed changes, if approved, would allow certain next-generation aircraft, like the Airbus A320neo, to land using a 4.49-degree approach. This is a less steep angle compared to the current 5.5-degree descent. While the plan is intended to reduce the number of flights, the airport assures that the new approach will lead to a reduction in noise pollution while still supporting the airport’s capacity to handle up to nine million passengers per year.

What’s Involved in the New Airspace Change Proposal?

The proposal from London City Airport would only affect the final few kilometers of an aircraft’s descent, specifically during the landing phase. The plan aims to reduce noise exposure for residents living nearby without altering current flight paths. Departures will remain unchanged, and the new approach will apply to larger, quieter, and more fuel-efficient aircraft, which include models like the Airbus A320neo.

This change could result in up to 76,500 fewer flights over the next 12 years when compared to a scenario where no changes are made. The reduction in flights would help alleviate the pressure on local communities, decreasing noise exposure for over 110,000 people and lowering early morning disturbances for about 10,000 residents.

Impact on Residents and Local Communities

London City Airport recognizes the importance of engaging with the local community and residents before proceeding with any changes. The consultation is part of the airport’s commitment to making its operations more sustainable and considerate of local residents. The proposal is designed to improve the living conditions for people living near the airport while allowing the airport to grow and accommodate more passengers.

The airport’s chief executive has emphasized that the changes would help grow the airport sustainably, which would not only benefit passengers but also bring economic advantages, such as the creation of up to 4,000 new jobs. These jobs would be created through the growth of new routes and airlines, further boosting the local economy.

In addition, the changes are expected to generate environmental benefits. A reduction of 76,500 flights over the next 12 years would significantly lower fuel consumption, with savings of up to 5,780 tonnes of fuel. This reduction would align with the broader goals of sustainability that London City Airport is working towards.

What Does This Mean for Business and Leisure Travelers?

For business travelers and tourists flying in and out of London City Airport, the changes could have several benefits. By allowing larger and more efficient aircraft to operate, the airport will be able to handle a higher number of passengers more sustainably. While the number of flights could be reduced, the overall quality of the air travel experience will improve as quieter and more efficient planes are introduced.

Tourists can expect less noise when traveling to or from London City Airport, particularly when flying in or out of the airport during the night. This will make the journey more pleasant for travelers who are sensitive to noise. Additionally, the potential introduction of new airlines and routes will offer more travel options for leisure travelers, especially for those looking to visit new and exciting destinations.

How Will This Change Affect the Environment and Local Noise Pollution?

One of the most significant benefits of the proposed airspace change is the potential reduction in noise pollution. London City Airport has emphasized that the new approach would help reduce the number of people exposed to excessive noise from aircraft. By using quieter aircraft and reducing the steepness of descents, the airport aims to create a more harmonious relationship between its operations and the local communities.

The reduction in flight numbers, combined with the introduction of quieter, more fuel-efficient aircraft, would also have a positive impact on the environment. With lower fuel consumption, the airport will contribute to fewer carbon emissions, supporting the broader goal of sustainability in the aviation industry.

How Can Local Residents Have Their Say?

BCP Council has made it easy for East Londoners to provide their feedback on the proposal. The public consultation is now open, and local residents, passengers, and stakeholders are encouraged to participate. Feedback can be provided online through the London City Airport website, where the full details of the consultation are available.

For those who prefer to view the details in person or discuss the proposal further, appointments are available at the Customer Contact Centre on St Stephen’s Road in East London. The consultation period is open until [consultation end date].

Key Points to Note:

• Proposal Details: London City Airport proposes a new 4.49-degree approach for quieter, larger aircraft, aiming to reduce noise and flight numbers.
• Impact on Flights: The change could reduce 76,500 flights over the next 12 years.
• Noise Reduction: More than 110,000 people will experience reduced noise exposure, with 10,000 benefiting from less early-morning noise.
• Environmental Benefits: The plan will reduce fuel consumption by 5,780 tonnes, contributing to sustainability efforts.
• Public Consultation: Residents and passengers can have their say via the consultation available online and at the Customer Contact Centre.

Quick Tips for Travelers:

1. Check for New Routes and Airlines: If you’re flying from London City Airport in the future, keep an eye out for new airlines and routes that might be introduced as a result of these changes.
2. Stay Informed About Noise Levels: If you’re sensitive to noise, you can expect quieter flights into and out of London City Airport once the new approach is implemented.
3. Provide Feedback: If you live near the airport or regularly travel from there, consider participating in the public consultation to voice your opinion on the proposed changes.
4. Plan for Sustainable Travel: By choosing to fly from London City Airport, you’ll be contributing to a more sustainable air travel system as the airport focuses on reducing its environmental impact.

These changes at London City Airport aim to strike a balance between accommodating growth and reducing the environmental and social impact of its operations. With community input at the forefront, this new airspace proposal could lead to a quieter, greener, and more efficient airport experience for both residents and travelers alike.

Quick Tips for Residents and Travelers:

• Stay updated on any disruptions or changes to your flight schedule.
• Take part in the consultation if you are a local resident or a frequent traveler to ensure your voice is heard.
• Choose quieter flights once the new approach is implemented for a more peaceful travel experience.

Galaxy S26 Ultra preorders are outpacing everything Samsung has launched before, and by a margin that has the company’s Korea chief casually dropping Guinness references at MWC.

Im Sung-taek, Samsung Electronics Korea’s executive VP, told SK Telecom’s president in Barcelona that Galaxy S26 series preorders are up roughly 15% compared to the S25 launch; the Ultra variant accounts for 70% of that lift.

“This may well be a Guinness,” Im said (via ETNews), which is either confidence or a very blunt admission that Samsung has finally cracked the premium conversion problem it’s chased for years.

The Galaxy S25 series hit about 1.3 million pre-orders last year, a record at the time. Simple arithmetic puts the S26 somewhere around 1.5 million units, and that’s with two days still left in the pre-sale window.

Ultra is eating everything

Here’s the thing: 70% of that 15% bump is Ultra. Samsung’s premium push is succeeding, but it’s succeeding narrowly. The base S26 and S26 Plus aren’t lighting fires, but filling shelf space while Ultra does the heavy lift.

Im Sung-taek, Executive Vice President and Head of Samsung Electronics Korea, met with SK Telecom President Jeong Jae-heon at MWC 2026 in Barcelona, Spain, and stated:

“Galaxy S26 series sales have increased approximately 15% compared to the previous model, with the Ultra model accounting for 70% of that figure.” He added, “This may well be a Guinness [world record].”

Privacy Display

Galaxy S26 Ultra is the world’s first smartphone equipped with Privacy Display, a feature that adjusts visibility based on who’s looking at the screen.

Mobile Agentic AI

Mobile Agentic AI, Samsung’s latest branding exercise for what used to just be called “AI stuff.” This time, the company claims it’s meaningfully more useful in everyday scenarios, not just demos.

The post Samsung talks ‘Guinness Record’ as Galaxy S26 approaches 1.5 million preorders appeared first on Sammy Fans.

"Hayalim Galatasaray" dedi, Fenerbahçe'nin Domenico Tedesco ile görüşme teklifini bile geri çevirdi! Sarı-kırmızılıların yeni transferi Can Armando Güner, 18 yaşına girer girmez imzayı attı. Mavi kartla Türk statüsünde oynayan genç yıldız için asıl kritik süreç ise Milli Takım tercihiyle başlayacak.

Galatasaray’ın transferi için büyük uğraş verdiği genç yetenek Can Armando Güner, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk resmi maçına Türkiye Kupası’ndaki Alanyaspor karşılaşmasında çıktı. 18 yaşına girmesinin ardından lisansı çıkarılan genç yıldız, sergilediği performans ve maç sonu açıklamalarıyla taraftarın sevgisini kazandı.

Maçın ardından duygularını paylaşan Can Armando, çocukluk hayallerine kavuştuğunu belirterek şu ifadeleri kullandı:

- Hayallerim gerçek oldu diyebilirim. Bu inanılmaz kulübün formasını giyerek ilk maçıma çıktım. Her zaman bu günün hayalini kurdum ama bu sadece ilk adım. Asıl yolculuk şimdi başlıyor, çalışmaya devam edeceğim.

Maç sonunda genç oyuncularına parantez açan teknik direktör Okan Buruk, taraftarların heyecanını paylaştı:

- Taraftarlarımızın görmek istediği Nhaga ve Asprilla gibi gençlerimiz var. Can Armando'yu da bundan sonraki süreçte daha fazla değerlendirebiliriz.

Can Armando Güner’in Galatasaray’a imza atma süreci tam bir sadakat hikayesiydi. Transfer döneminde ezeli rakip Fenerbahçe’nin de oyuncuyla yakından ilgilendiği, hatta Tedesco ile bir görüşme teklif edildiği öğrenildi.

Ancak genç oyuncunun cevabı net oldu. "Hayalim Galatasaray, ben Galatasaraylıyım." diyerek tüm teklifleri elinin tersiyle itti.

Galatasaray yönetimi, transfer sürecinde stratejik bir duruş sergiledi. İlk etapta anlaşılan rakamlar medyaya sızınca karşı tarafın talepleri değişse de, yönetim "İstediğimiz rakam olmazsa vazgeçeriz" diyerek geri adım atmadı ve transferi bitirdi.

7 Ocak’ta 18 yaşına girmesiyle birlikte Türkiye Cumhuriyeti kimlik ve mavi kart işlemleri tamamlanan oyuncu, şu anda Türk statüsünde forma giyiyor. Can Armando her ne kadar şu an yerli statüsünde oynasa da, gelecekte Almanya veya Arjantin A Milli Takımlarını tercih etmesi durumunda, kurallar gereği Süper Lig'de yabancı statüsüne geçecek.

Alanyaspor engelini as oyuncularından yoksun geçerek gövde gösterisi yapan Galatasaray'da teknik direktör Okan Buruk, Beşiktaş ve Liverpool öncesi 'aktif dinlendirme' formülünü devreye soktu; yıldız isimleri riske etmeyen sarı-kırmızılılar, dev derbiye yüzde 100 atletik performans ve 'kazanma geni' vurgusuyla hazırlanıyor.

Alanyaspor engelini hem ligde hem de kupada as oyuncularından yoksun bir kadroyla aşmayı başaran Galatasaray, rotayı tamamen Beşiktaş derbisine kırdı. Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, yoğun fikstür içerisinde takımı hem fiziksel hem de zihinsel olarak taze tutmak adına kapsamlı bir "aktif dinlendirme" programını devreye soktu.

Okan Buruk’un pek çok as oyuncusunu deplasman kafilesine dahil etmemesi, teknik açıdan bir "risk yönetimi" başarısı olarak değerlendiriliyor. Uğurcan Çakır, Davinson Sanchez, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Victor Osimhen ve Mario Lemina gibi omurga oyuncuların İstanbul’da özel çalışmalara alınması, takımın derbi ve sonrasındaki Liverpool müsabakasına yüzde 100 atletik performansla çıkmasını hedefliyor.

Hafif ağrıları bulunan Roland Sallai, Yunus Akgün ve Mauro Icardi’nin kadroya alınmaması, teknik heyetin "sıfır risk" politikasını uyguladığını gösteriyor. Teknik ekip, bu oyuncuların kronikleşebilecek sakatlıklarını önleyerek derbi öncesi kadro derinliğini korumayı başardı.

Okan Buruk’un açıklamaları, Galatasaray’ın derbi taktiğine dair önemli ipuçları veriyor. Buruk’un "Galatasaray'ın genlerinde olan kazanma hırsı" vurgusu, takımın büyük maçlardaki reaksiyon verme becerisine olan güvenini simgeliyor.

Beşiktaş’ın yeni transferlerle artan form grafiğine ve yükselen motivasyonuna dikkat çeken Buruk, rakibin fiziksel direncine aynı sertlikte yanıt verecek bir kurgu hazırlıyor.

Okan Buruk’un maç sonunda, "Beşiktaş bize karşı en iyi haliyle hazırlanmış durumda. Performanslarının yükseldiğinin farkındayız. Ancak Galatasaray her maçı kazanmak için sahaya çıkar. Hedefimiz önce Beşiktaş, sonra Liverpool" diyerek hem derbi hem de Şampiyonlar Ligi'ne hazır olduklarını gösterdi.

Galatasaray'ın genç yıldız adayı Renato Nhaga, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk golünü atarak taraftarın gönlünü çaldı. Genç oyuncu, sergilediği performansla sadece skora katkı yapmadı, aynı zamanda yüksek oyun zekasıyla gerçek bir "yıldız adayı" olduğunu kanıtladı.

Galatasaray’ın 18 yaşındaki yıldız adayı Renato Nhaga, sarı-kırmızılı formayla ilk golünü atarak taraftarın gönlünü çaldı. Genç oyuncu, sergilediği performansla sadece skora katkı yapmadı, aynı zamanda oyun zekasıyla "yıldız adayı" sinyallerini verdi.

Nhaga’nın attığı gol kadar, gol sonrası yaptığı sevinç de gündem oldu. Dünyaca ünlü anime serisi Attack on Titan'ın başkarakteri Eren Yeager’ın ikonik duruşunu sergileyen genç oyuncu, sosyal medyada kısa sürede viral oldu.

Maç sonunda duygularını paylaşan Renato Nhaga, büyük bir kulübe gelmenin sorumluluğunu taşıdığını belirtti:

- Çok mutluyum... Bu sıradan bir his değil, gerçekten özel bir his. Çok büyük bir kulübe geldim, bunun bilinciyle her gün çalışmaya devam ediyorum.

Genç yıldız, taraftara olan sevgisini ise Türkçe konuşarak gösterdi:

- Teşekkürler. Haydi Gala...

Soyunma odasında da kendisini kısa sürede sevdiğer Nhaga'ya, takımın tecrübeli ismi Lucas Torreira'dan sempatik bir lakap geldi. Torreira, genç yeteneğe Brezilya usulü "Renatinho" diyerek seslenmeye başladı.

Nhaga'nın 18 yaşında olmasına rağmen sergilediği "ölçülü özgüvene" dikkat çekiyor. Attığı goldeki vuruş kalitesi sınıfı geçti. Barış Alper Yılmaz’a attığı ara pası, oyun görüşünün ne kadar yüksek olduğunu kanıtladı.

Dönerken attığı çalımlar ve takıma kazandırdığı tempo, "top ayağındayken çok etkili" yorumlarını beraberinde getirdi.

Genç oyuncu, maçın ardından yaptığı sosyal medya paylaşımında ise başarısını şu sözlerle kutladı:

- Tanrı’ya şükür. Bu formayla attığım ilk gol için çok mutluyum. +3 puan. Desteğiniz için teşekkür ederim.

Galatasaray, UEFA ile ceza diplomasisi yürüterek 'erteleme' sözüyle Liverpool deplasmanına taraftar götürmeye hazırlanıyor. Ada'da 'Aslan' laneti hortladı. Şampiyonlar Ligi randevusu öncesi lig sonuncusuna yenilen Liverpool'da Arne Slot için istifa sesleri yükseliyor!

UEFA, Juventus maçında yaşanan olaylar nedeniyle Galatasaray’a 40 bin euro para cezası ve Liverpool deplasmanı için seyircisiz oynama cezası verdi. Ancak sarı-kırmızılı yönetim hemen harekete geçti.

UEFA ile temas kuran Galatasaray, bu cezanın "tekrarı halinde uygulanmak üzere" ertelenmeli bir cezaya dönüştürülmesi için görüşmelerini sürdürüyor.

Liverpool, Şampiyonlar Ligi’ndeki kritik randevu öncesinde lig sonuncusu Wolverhampton’a 2-1 mağlup olarak büyük bir şok yaşadı. Bu sonuçla 3 maçlık galibiyet serisi sona eren İngiliz devi için bu tablo oldukça tanıdık.

TARİH TEKRAR ETTİ

Liverpool, daha önce Galatasaray’a yenildiği Şampiyonlar Ligi maçı öncesinde de ligde Crystal Palace’a 2-1 kaybetmişti. Yine bir Galatasaray maçı öncesi, yine bir 2-1’lik mağlubiyetle sarsıldılar.

Wolves mağlubiyeti bardağı taşırdı. Sosyal medyada kampanya başlatan Liverpool taraftarları, teknik direktör Arne Slot için istifa tweetleri atarak yönetime baskı yapmaya başladı.

Bu arada BBC Liverpool Muhabiri Aadam Patel, İngiltere’deki atmosferi şu sözlerle özetledi:

- Kimse ilk maçı unutabilmiş değil. Galatasaray, lig aşamasındaki performansıyla sadece puan değil, Liverpool’un saygısını da kazandı.

“Barselona”nın 18 yaşlı ispaniyalı ulduzu, sağ cinah hücumçusu Lamin Yamal pubalgiyadan daha əziyyət çəkmədiyini bildirib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, gənc futbolçu ağrısız oynadığını və xoşbəxt olduğunu bildirib:

“Daha pubalgiyadan əziyyət çəkmirəm. Onda xoşbəxt deyildim, indi isə futboldan yenə zövq alıram”, deyə Yamal vurğulayıb.

Qeyd edək ki, Yamal cari mövsümdə tərəqqisinə davam edir. O, “blauqrana”nın son 12 oyununda 9 qol vurub və 4 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.

Əlavə edəki, müvafiq səviyyədə uğurlu çıxışı, gənc futbolçunun mövsümün “Qızıl top” mükafatına iddiasını artırır.

Xatırladaq ki, Lamin Yamal “Barselona”nın məzunudur. İstedadlı gənc 2022/2023-cü illər mövsümündən Kataloniya təmsilçisinin əsas komandasında çıxış edir. Yamalın “Barselona” ilə müqaviləsinin müddəti 2031-ci ilin iyun ayının sonuna qədər qüvvədədir.

Yamal cari mövsümdə “blauqrana”nın heyətində 35 oyuna çıxıb. O, bu oyunlarda 18 qol və 15 məhsuldar ötürmə ilə fərqlənib.

Lamin Yamalın “Barselona”da çıxışının ümumi mənzərəsi 141 oyun, 43 qol və 49 məhsuldar ötürmədən ibarətdir.

Yamal 2023-cü ilin sentyabr ayında debüt etdiyi İspaniya yığma komandasının heyətində 23 oyun keçirib, 6 qol vurub, 12 məhsuldar ötürmə verib.

Yamalın qənimətlər muzeyində “Barselona” ilə qazandığı İspaniya La Liqası (2022/2023, 2024/2025), İspaniya Kral Kuboku (2024/2025) və İspaniya Super Kuboku (2024/2025) var. Həmçinin Yamal İspaniya yığması ilə AÇ-2024-ün qalibi olub.

“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 18 yaşlı ispaniyalı sağ cinah hücumçusunun transfer dəyərini 200 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.

Barcelona are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven as Hansi Flick looks to secure a top-level, left-footed center-back this summer.

According to a report from Spanish outlet SPORT, the Dutch international has emerged as a primary alternative to Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni, whose price tag and Inter’s reluctance to sell make a deal difficult.

Barcelona eyeing Van de Ven amid Tottenham crisis

The sports management at Barcelona has been tracking Van de Ven for months, but interest has intensified due to the club’s current crisis.

With Spurs sitting in 16th place and winless in 2026, the 24-year-old is said to be looking to leave the club this summer.

The report suggests that Van de Ven is “highly questioned” by sections of the London team’s supporters, and with the club facing the genuine threat of relegation, an early departure is increasingly likely.

Crucially, Van de Ven has reportedly prioritised Barcelona over other potential suitors, including rivals Real Madrid.

Liverpool also interested in Micky van de Ven

While Barcelona believe they have the edge, they are not alone in their admiration. Liverpool have also been heavily linked with a move for the Dutchman in recent weeks.

The Reds reportedly see him as the long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk. 

The prospect of signing a ‘world-class‘ defender at a potentially reduced price will no doubt make him a highly sought-after player.

With Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation still unresolved, Van de Ven will be a prime candidate to bolster Arne Slot’s defensive options.

Losing Van de Ven would be a huge blow for Tottenham

For Tottenham, the potential exit of Van de Ven represents a nightmare scenario.

The club is already struggling with a defensive crisis, and losing their most athletic defender would be a devastating blow to their hopes of a rebuild, regardless of which division they find themselves in next season.

What makes this a nightmare situation is the uncertain future of club captain Cristian Romero.

The Argentine is currently serving the final match of a four-game suspension following a red card against Manchester United, and reports from his home country suggest he is also keen to leave this summer.

Former manager Thomas Frank admitted before his departure that he had “no idea” if Romero would stay, and with the captain reportedly frustrated by the club’s lack of investment, Spurs face the terrifying prospect of losing both of their starting center-backs in a single window.

The post Barcelona eyeing stunning move for ‘world-class’ Tottenham star as Spurs crisis deepens appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The friction between Li Auto and Volkswagen started back in September 2020 when Volkswagen China CEO stated that EREV technology is environmental unfriendly.

The post Li Auto: congratulations to Volkswagen on producing “outdated” range-extender technology appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.

The post Upbit Lists EDGE, Expands Trading Options appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

South Korea’s top crypto exchange, Upbit, will list the EDGE token with trading pairs in KRW, BTC, and USDT, expanding access for its large user base. EDGE (Definitive) is an on-chain trading platform that works like a decentralized exchange aggregator, offering advanced order types, multichain liquidity routing, and CEX-style execution directly from users’ wallets. The token also provides fee benefits and premium features on the Definitive platform, making it appealing for active traders.

The post Binance Exchange Plans Five More Asia Licenses as APAC Crypto Adoption Surges appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Binance Exchange plans to secure five additional regulatory licenses in Asia this year as it expands its presence in the region’s growing cryptocurrency market.

SB Seker, Binance’s head of Asia-Pacific, shared the plan during an interview with Nikkei Asia in Tokyo. 

“We have five more planned for this year in Asia,” Seker said.

The approvals would increase the exchange’s licensed operations to more than 20 jurisdictions worldwide.

Binance Licensing Push Across Asia

Binance currently holds regulatory licenses and authorizations in Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand. South Korea is expected to join the list after the company completes its acquisition of local crypto exchange Gopax.

Seker said the exchange is working through a pipeline of markets across Asia. Some licensing processes are nearing completion, while discussions with regulators continue in other jurisdictions regarding Binance’s business model and local compliance requirements.

The licensing efforts are part of Binance’s “hyperlocalization” strategy, which focuses on adapting operations to local regulatory standards while expanding services in individual markets.

APAC Drives Global Crypto Activity

Asia-Pacific has emerged as the fastest-growing region for cryptocurrency activity.

According to Chainalysis’ Global Crypto Adoption Index, total cryptocurrency transaction volume in the Asia-Pacific region increased from $1.4 trillion to $2.36 trillion, marking a 69% year-over-year increase.

The Country Crypto Adoption Index 2025 lists seven Asian nations among the global top 10: India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan. 

Potential Markets for New Licenses

Binance has not disclosed which Asian countries could issue the new licenses. However, several jurisdictions in the region are strengthening digital asset regulations.

Hong Kong introduced a licensing system for Virtual Asset Trading Platforms and had about 11 licensed crypto exchanges operating in late 2025.

Japan maintains a mature regulatory structure where exchanges must register with the Financial Services Agency before offering services.

Malaysia requires crypto platforms to obtain approval from the Securities Commission and maintain strict compliance frameworks.

Vietnam and Thailand are also developing regulatory systems for digital asset trading.

Singapore’s Position in Binance Operations

Binance withdrew its application for a retail crypto license in Singapore in 2021 after regulators tightened oversight of cryptocurrency speculation. The company also ended direct retail services in the country.

Seker said Singapore remains important for Binance’s corporate headquarters, derivatives operations, and over-the-counter trading services.

However, obtaining a retail license would mainly allow Binance to serve the country’s smaller spot trading segment.

“The market isn’t very big, but we take every market seriously,” Seker said.

The post Binance Plans to Acquire Five Additional Regulatory Licenses in Asia appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Binance plans to acquire five more regulatory licenses in Asia this year as it expands its presence in the region’s fast-growing crypto market. The exchange already holds approvals in Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand, with South Korea expected to join after its planned acquisition of Gopax. Asia-Pacific remains a key market for the company as crypto adoption rises rapidly. Binance says it is strengthening compliance and working closely with regulators while seeking approvals in several new markets.

Almaniyada yeni mövsümdən etibarən Bundesliqa və II Bundesliqa klubları üçün 21 yaşadək futbolçuların çıxış edəcəyi liqa keçiriləcək.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə Almaniya Peşəkar Futbol Liqasının mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Yeni liqaların yaradılmasında məqsəd gənc futbolçuların inkişafına təkan verməkdir.

Yarışda Bundesliqa və II Bundesliqa klublarının U-21 komandaları mübarizə aparacaq.

UEFA “Qalatasaray”ı cəzalandırıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, qurum Türkiyə klubunu Çempionlar Liqasında “Yuventus”la səfər matçında azakeşlərininuyğunsuz davranışlarına görə 40 min avro məbləğində cərimələyib. “Qalatasaray”a eyni zamanda bir səfər matçına azarkeş aparmamaq cəzası verilib.

İstanbul təmsilçisi qərardan etiraz edəcək.

“Qalatasaray” Çempionlar Liqasının pley-off mərhələsində “Liverpul”la martın 18-də İngiltərədə üz-üzə gələcək. İlk oyun isə martın 10-da Türkiyədə olacaq.

“Zirə” Azərbaycan Kubokunda yarımfinala yüksəlib. “Qartallar” iki oyunun nəticəsinə görə “Sumqayıt”ı mübarizədən kənarlaşdırıb – 0:0, 2:0.

Saşa İliçin rəhbərliyi altında mövsümə yaxşı başlayan “kimyaçılar” son dönəmlərdə enişdədir. Liqada ardıcıl xal itkiləri ilə geriləyən komanda kubokla da vidalaşdı. “Zirə” səfərində dişsiz oyun göstərən, rəqib müdafiəsini yara bilməyən “Sumqayıt” layiq olduğu məğlubiyyəti yaşadı.

Avrokuboklara vəsiqə mübarizəsində geri düşən “kimyaçılar” liqada üçüncü sıradakı “Turan Tovuz”dan 10 xal geri qalır. Fərqin aradan qaldırılması inandırıcı görünmür. Həm yuxarıdakı komandalar daha formadadır, həm də “Sumqayıt” sərgilədiyi oyunla o ümidi vermir.

Nəticələr bir yana, komandada intizamsızlıq da aşkardır. Heyətin ən təcrübəli adı Nikolo Ninkoviç son iki rəsmi matçda qırmızı vərəqə almaqla komandanı çətin duruma salır. Təcrübəsiylə fayda verməsi gözlənilən yarımmüdafiəçi əksinə yersiz vərəqələrlə planları pozur. İliçin onun barəsində tədbir görəcəyi gözlənilir.

“Sumqayıt” enişdədirsə, “Zirə” üçün yüksəlişdə demək olar. Rəşad Sadıqovun komandası son turlarda inamlı təsir bağışlayır. Liqada əsas rəqiblərindən “Araz-Naxçıvan”a qalib gələn “qartallar” çətin “Sumqayıt” səddini də rahatlıqla aşmağı bacardı. Qəsəbə komandası üçün hər iki yarışda mübarizə davam edir.

Şahin Cəfərov

Bu gün dünyanın yaşıl meydanlarında futbol oyunları keçiriləcək.

Futbolpress.az qarşılaşmaları canlı yayımlayacaq telekanalların siyahısını təqdim edir…

4 mart

Asiya Çempionlar Liqası
14:00 Seul – Kobe (Spor Smart Türkiye)
16:15 Johor – Hiroşima (Spor Smart Türkiye)

Türkiyə Kuboku
15:30 Erzurumspor – Keçiörengücü (A Spor)
21:30 Qaziantep – Fənərbağça (ATV Türkiye)
21:30 Beşiktaş – Rizespor (A Haber)
21:30 Beyoğlu – Kocaelispor (A Spor)

Azərbaycan Kuboku
19:00 Qarabağ – Şamaxı (CBC Sport)

İngiltərə, Premyer Liqa
23:30 Brayton – Arsenal (beİN Sports 3)
23:30 Aston Villa – Çelsi (İdman TV, beİN Sports 4)
23:30 Mançester Siti – Nottingem Forest (beİN Sports 2)
00:15 Nyukasl – Mançester Yunayted (beİN Sports 5)

İtaliya Kuboku
00:00 Latsio – Atalanta (TRT Spor)

İspaniyanın “Alaves” klubunun baş məşqçisi açıqlanıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, komandanın sükanı Kike Floresə tapşırılıb. Bu barədə klubun mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Mütəxəssislə 2 illik müqavilə imzalanıb.

Flores məşqçi karyerası ərzində “Real”, “Atletiko”, “Xetafe”, “Valensiya” kimi komandalara rəhbərlik edib.

“Alaves” La Liqada 26 turdan sonra 27 xalla 16-cı sıradadır.

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Cale Makar had a goal and two assists, Nathan MacKinnon secured his fourth consecutive 100-point season with a third-period assist, and the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche snapped the Anaheim Ducks' five-game winning streak with a 5-1 victory Tuesday night.

Parker Kelly scored two goals and Scott Wedgewood made 27 saves for the Avs, who have won three straight and four of five since the Olympic break. Martin Necas got his 27th goal and Gabriel Landeskog also scored to complete Colorado's back-to-back sweep of the Southern California clubs.

Cutter Gauthier scored his 29th goal and Lukas Dostal stopped 21 shots for the Ducks, whose eight-game home winning streak since Jan. 2 also ended.

Anaheim would have moved into first place in the Pacific Division with a point, but the loss kept Vegas one point ahead. The Ducks are in a playoff race down the stretch for the first time since 2018.

After two fruitless Ducks power plays in the opening minutes, Makar put the Avs ahead from the slot with his 18th goal.

Necas added his seventh power-play goal of the season 2 1/2 minutes later, beating his Czech Olympic teammate with a high shot. The goal was just the second on the power play in the last 12 games for the Avalanche, who inexplicably have the NHL's worst man-advantage unit despite their overall excellence.

Gauthier hammered home a one-timer early in the second after a superb cross-ice pass from Jackson LaCombe, but Kelly got his 14th goal later in the period.

Landeskog then scored a goal in his second straight game, connecting early in the third on a one-timer from MacKinnon, who got his 59th assist to go with his NHL-leading 41 goals.

Up next

Avalanche: At Dallas on Friday night.

Ducks: Host New York Islanders on Wednesday night.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/NHL

The rivalry has become a tradition. The MLS All-Star Game 2026 will once again pit the best of Major League Soccer and Liga MX against each other on July 29 at Bank of America Stadium, home of Charlotte FC.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET, continuing a fixture on the North American soccer calendar.

The festivities begin the day before. On July 28, players will take part in the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge presented by AT&T at Truist Field, also in Charlotte. The event features shooting, passing, and crossbar challenges designed to showcase technique before the main event.

MLS vs Liga MX rivalry gets another chapter

The 2026 edition will mark:

• The third consecutive All-Star meeting between the leagues
• The fifth overall matchup in the MLS vs Liga MX format

The game has evolved beyond a typical exhibition. For MLS, it represents an opportunity to showcase the league’s growth and competitiveness. For Liga MX, it is a chance to defend its long-established reputation as the region’s traditional powerhouse.

The rivalry now extends beyond the All-Star Game. Cooperation between the leagues includes competitions such as the Leagues Cup and the Concacaf Champions Cup, creating regular points of contact between clubs.

Another layer adds intrigue: many players involved are expected to feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The All-Star Game effectively becomes a preview stage for talent ahead of the tournament.

How the rosters are selected

Each side will feature 26 players.

MLS All-Stars

• 11 players selected by fan voting
• 13 players chosen by the All-Star head coach
• 2 players selected by MLS Commissioner Don Garber

Voting details will be announced by the league in the coming weeks.

Liga MX All-Stars

Liga MX will also name 26 players. While final selection criteria have not been confirmed, the squad is expected to balance standout performers with representatives from the league’s most prominent clubs.

Head-to-head record

Results between the leagues remain relatively balanced.

MLS vs Liga MX All-Star Game

• 2021 (Los Angeles) — MLS won on penalties
• 2022 (Minnesota) — MLS won 2–1
• 2024 (Columbus) — Liga MX won 4–1
• 2025 (Austin) — MLS won 3–1

MLS holds three victories, while Liga MX has one.

The Skills Challenge is perfectly even:

• Liga MX wins: 2021, 2024
• MLS wins: 2022, 2025

The result is a 2–2 split heading into 2026.

Charlotte takes center stage

Since joining MLS in 2022, Charlotte FC has quickly built a reputation for strong attendance.

Bank of America Stadium regularly ranks among the league’s leaders in crowd size. The club’s home debut drew 74,479 fans, one of the largest attendances in MLS history.

Other milestones underline the club’s presence in the city:

• Nearly 3 million total fans since launch
• Three consecutive MLS Cup Playoff appearances
• 4th place in the Eastern Conference in 2025 with 59 points

The stadium has also hosted major international events, including the Leagues Cup, Copa América, FIFA Club World Cup matches, and international friendlies. It is also home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers.

All-Star Week expands beyond the match

The All-Star Game is part of a week-long series of events across Charlotte, including:

• Community outreach programs
• Sponsor activations and fan events
• Player appearances
• The fifth MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate

The week blends sport, entertainment, and business, turning the host city into a hub for the North American soccer industry.

Strategic moment for both leagues

The 2026 MLS All-Star Game arrives at a pivotal time for soccer in North America.

With the World Cup set to take place across the continent, both MLS and Liga MX are seeking to capitalize on increased global attention. MLS aims to expand its international visibility, while Liga MX continues to strengthen its brand presence in the United States.

On the field, however, the objective remains simple: competition.

Matches between MLS and Liga MX rarely resemble casual exhibitions. The stakes revolve around regional prestige.

World Baseball Classic games on TV today: Full schedule, times, channels, live streams to watch 2026 WBC originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The World Baseball Classic is back for 2026, with 20 teams vying for glory around the globe. 

The tournament opens Thursday night, Eastern time, with the opening games in Pool C. Australia and Chinese Taipei lead things off from Tokyo, with Korea and Czechia to follow a few hours later on Friday morning in the U.S.

Australia was one of the feel-good stories of the 2023 WBC, beating Korea in its opener and making it out of pool play for the first time in the fifth edition of the tournament. Manager Dave Nilsson's Aussies lost a close one to Cuba in the quarterfinals, and they return several key players from that team plus MLB-caliber newcomers Curtis Mead and Travis Bazzana. 

Chinese Taipei was in the most balanced WBC pool ever last time out, going 2-2 to finish in a five-way tie. Unfortunately, they ended up in last place on the tiebreaker and had to survive a qualifying tournament last year just to make the 2026 field. 

The second game of the day at Tokyo will feature Korea trying to bounce back from missing out on the knockout stage last time and perennial underdog Czechia looking for a massive upset. 

Here's everything you need to know to watch WBC games today.

World Baseball Classic games on TV today

Wednesday, March 4

Thursday, March 5

Where to watch World Baseball Classic 2026

• TV channels: Fox, FS1, FS2
• Live stream: Fubo, Tubi, Fox app, Fox One

The 2026 World Baseball Classic will be broadcast by the Fox networks, including the main channel, FS1 and FS2. All of those games can be streamed live via Fubo, and some additional games will stream on Tubi and the Fox app. Fox One will also stream every game. 

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

World Baseball Classic schedule 2026

Friday, March 6

Saturday, March 7

Sunday, March 8

Monday, March 9

Tuesday, March 10

Wednesday, March 11

Friday, March 13 - Quarterfinals

If the USA is in the quarterfinals, it will play on Friday

Saturday, March 14 - Quarterfinals

If Japan is in the quarterfinals, it will play on Saturday

Sunday, March 15 - Semifinals

Semifinals and championship will be played in Miami

Monday, March 16 - Semifinals

Tuesday, March 17 - Championship

Related Links

• Latest MLB news and rumors
• 2026 MLB schedule and scores
• How to bet on MLB

The NHL's hottest team isn't who you'd think originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Dallas Stars are on fire right now, and if you haven't been paying attention, it's time to start.

Dallas has rattled off 10 straight wins, the longest active winning streak in the NHL. It's the kind of run that turns a good team into a great story, and the Stars are writing a compelling one following the Olympic break. 

DOUBLE DIGITS 🚨 pic.twitter.com/yY07rFFEGQ

— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 4, 2026

Dallas knocked off the Winnipeg Jets (4-3), outlasted the St. Louis Blues twice, edged the Vegas Golden Knights 5-4 in a thriller, and dispatched the Seattle Kraken 4-1. They also dominated the Nashville Predators 3-2 before closing out the stretch with a 6-1 blowout over the Vancouver Canucks.

Ten wins, ten different opponents for the Stars. Injuries factored into the mix, too, with the loss of star forward Tyler Seguin for the season and Mikko Rantanen following the Olympics.

For Dallas, this streak puts them in firm control of their playoff positioning. The postseason is just weeks away, and momentum is everything; no team in the league has more of it right now. 

The Stars return home to face the Colorado Avalanche on March 7. All eyes will be on the matchup that will test just how far this streak can go.

More NHL news:

• Oilers want 2 positions before the NHL trade deadline
• A salary cap rule may make 2 Flames trades difficult
• Canadiens know trade cost for Robert Thomas
• It'll be complicated to trade for Steven Stamkos
• Alex Ovechkin has shared an update on his retirement plans
• Evgeni Malkin gets big news on a possible future

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Kirill Kaprizov broke the franchise career goals record with 220, Mats Zuccarello, Brock Faber and Quinn Hughes each had a goal and assist and the Minnesota Wild beat the Tampa Bay Lightning 5-1 Tuesday night.

Kaprizov’s empty-netter, a backhander from center ice for his 35th of the season, pushed him past Marian Gaborik for the most in Wild history.

Yakov Trenin also scored to help Minnesota end a two-game slide and continue its home dominance of Tampa Bay. The Wild are 16-3-0 at home against the Lightning.

Matt Boldy added a season-high three assists, extending his points streak to a career-high-tying 10 games. Filip Gustavsson stopped 26 shots, improving to 5-1-0 in his past six starts.

Opening a four-game road trip, Tampa Bay got a goal from Nikita Kucherov but lost its third straight game after a 20-1-1 stretch. Andrei Vasilevskiy made 17 saves.

Hughes also scored in the third period, resulting in a brief “U-S-A! U-S-A-!" chant for the member of the recent gold-medal winning squad.

Trenin scored a fluky goal at 17:10 of the second period for a 3-1 Minnesota lead.

Losing the puck as he tried to split a pair of defenders in the Lightning zone, Trenin finished his drive to the net and capitalized when Vasilevskiy struggled to cover the slow sliding puck.

Just over two minutes earlier, Kucherov completed a pretty passing play with Brayden Point and Jake Guentzel to get Tampa Bay on the board.

Faber scored less than four minutes into the game for a 1-0 lead. Zuccarello made it 2-0 with a 4-on-3 power-play goal early in the second period, the eighth straight game Minnesota has scored with the man advantage.

Up next

Lightning: At Winnipeg on Thursday night.

Wild: At Vegas on Friday night.

___

AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl

Receiving Aaron Wiggins' kick-out pass, Jaylin Williams calmly knocked down the outside catch-and-shoot look. Boom. That was enough for Chicago to wave the white flag as it cleared its bench. Even without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and others, OKC has figured out a formula to taste success.

The Oklahoma City Thunder enjoyed a 116-108 win over the Chicago Bulls. It was a game where the reigning NBA champions had most of the control. The latter is filled with career journeymen trying to find their next paychecks.

To start, both teams struggled to get anything going. The Thunder eventually found a rhythm with their second-unit lineup. Williams had eight points. Jared McCain quickly put up six points. They had a 26-22 lead after the first quarter.

The Bulls kept it within a possession. Guerschon Yabusele bullied his way to the rim. He also swished in a few outside jumpers. Isaiah Joe exchanged buckets with him. Welcome to NBA March basketball. The Thunder scored 29 points in the second frame. But they entered halftime with just a 55-54 lead over Chicago.

After the break, the Bulls eventually retook the lead. Josh Giddey swished an outside jumper. Matas Buzelis went to the free-throw line. Brand-new ballgame for OKC. That's where Chet Holmgren took over — on the defensive end, at least. Chicago's offense couldn't get anything going. It was out of synch. The rim-protector ensured that.

The Thunder went on a 14-4 run to create some separation again. They scored 32 points in the third frame. The Bulls saw their world fall apart. On one possession, Giddey had a gnarly ankle roll. A few possessions later, Buzelis also injured his knee. Both of Chicago's prized prospects fell. Only the former returned to the game.

Holding onto an 87-76 lead, the Thunder didn't need long to add more. They kept their distance on the scoreboard. Cason Wallace's steal-and-score pushed their advantage to 110-91 with a little under five minutes to go. That was enough to zap away all interest from this game — or most of it.

The Bulls went on an interesting 17-4 run that had the Thunder call a couple of timeouts to close this out with their end-of-bench guys. The outside shooting suddenly couldn't miss for Chicago in a half-empty gym still relying on nostalgia to sell tickets.

All that did was make the final score a little more respectable. The Thunder scored 29 points in the final frame. It never felt like they were actually on the verge of losing to one of the league's worst teams whose front office punted on the season at the trade deadline.

The Thunder shot 43% from the field and went 10-of-42 (23.8%) from 3. They shot 20-of-24 on free throws. They had 23 assists on 43 baskets. Six Thunder players scored double-digit points.

Holmgren had 12 points and 11 rebounds. McCain scored 20 points off the bench. Joe had 19 points. Wiggins tallied 18 points and seven rebounds. Williams finished with 17 points, 16 rebounds and six assists. Wallace had 17 points and five assists.

Meanwhile, the Bulls shot 43% from the field and went 17-of-49 (34.7%) from 3. They shot 13-of-19 on free throws. They had 27 assists on 39 baskets. Six Bulls players scored double-digit points.

Giddey finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Sexton scored 20 points off the bench. Yabusele had 18 points and 12 rebounds. Nick Richards tallied 12 points and 13 rebounds. Tre Jones scored 15 points. Buzelis had 11 points and five rebounds.

Another business-first win. Over the last month, the Thunder have learned to win without Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. Never want to be without the reigning MVP and an All-NBA player, but OKC has passed several gut-check tests. Credit to OKC's system for making the most of the talent available on any night.

The Thunder depended on their league-best defense to shut down the Bulls — who only got lucky with outside shooting variance. Both teams are heading in opposite directions. OKC has some of the best team chemistry in the league. Meanwhile, Chicago plays like a bunch of dudes who met for the first time before the game. The contrasting playstyles were loud.

Let's look at Thunder player grades:

Chet Holmgren: B

Running down the floor with Yabusele, Holmgren quickly made up for lost ground. The Chicago role player tried to rush in a transition layup. Instead, the NBA All-Star player yelled in his ear as he jumped off the floor with him. His wingspan helped him swat away his attempt. Just a special defender.

Holmgren finished with 12 points on 4-of-10 shooting, 11 rebounds and two assists. He shot 0-of-2 from 3 and went 4-of-6 on free throws. He also had two blocks.

Affecting the scoreboard in his way, Holmgren helped ice the Bulls. They struggled to attack the rim when he was on the floor. A bunch of Chicago role players didn't want to be on the wrong side of a refusal. That helped the Thunder overcome some ice-cold shooting splits as they manufactured points.

On the other end, Holmgren continued to be an efficient play-finisher. He sliced through Chicago's defense. Playing without a table-setter, the seven-footer showed he could go out and get his own buckets. He only needed a handful of dribbles to get to the cup and finish through contact.

Awesome game for Holmgren. He played within the flow of the offense. But also showed an ability to create off the dribble. Something he's rarely allowed to do when Gilgeous-Alexander is suited up. The defense speaks for itself. The seven-footer completely took over in the third quarter on that end as OKC pulled away with a double-digit lead.

Showing off his strength 💪 pic.twitter.com/a6MD5OODUM

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Clear the lane for 7️⃣ pic.twitter.com/XaapUvTv13

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Rim protection, presented by @ChetHolmgren 🙅‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/2GatbfkY4g

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Jared McCain: A

Running some floppy action, McCain received Williams' dribble handoff. He took one dribble before he settled for a deep left-wing outside jumper that rattled in. Playing inside the historic NBA venue, the 22-year-old showed off some of his deep shot-making.

McCain finished with 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting, three rebounds and one assist. He shot 4-of-9 from 3. He also had two steals.

The rich keep getting richer. There were a lot of loud reactions involved when the Thunder acquired McCain from the Philadelphia 76ers. How could it happen? Why were the reigning NBA champions gifted a premier prospect? I felt like some of it was overblown. But oh my, can't say that right now, a month in.

McCain has been a perfect fit in OKC. Almost too perfect. After riding the bench to start the season, he's completely taken advantage of his fresh start. The Thunder needed a scorer with the number of guys out. He's gladly claimed plenty of possessions for himself.

The Thunder ran their second-unit offense through McCain. He was fed plenty of looks from the outside. One thing we've learned over his first month in OKC is that he's not afraid to let it fly. Once he got into a rhythm with his jumper, the buckets came in a flurry. He had nine points in the first half. He had the same amount in the third quarter alone.

In a game where plenty of players helped out, McCain was OKC's sole 20-point scorer. The Thunder badly needed the spark plug off the bench. He helped put them ahead by double-digit points. What an arrival by their big mid-season acquisition. For comparison, their last major trade deadline addition — Gordon Hayward — is about to get surpassed for points in their respective OKC stints.

👌 pic.twitter.com/vMdVCEbYy1

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Stole it ➡️ scored it pic.twitter.com/Cd4AQ84GDQ

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

All hustle 😤 pic.twitter.com/U4aZfsz4Xu

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Jaylin Williams: A

Navigating McCain to cut to the basket, Williams went with the daring behind-the-back bounce pass as Richards was on his grill. The colorful pass resulted in an easy layup. Asked to take on more on his plate, the 23-year-old flirted with a triple-double.

Williams finished with 17 points on 6-of-11 shooting, 16 rebounds and six assists. He shot 3-of-7 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had one steal.

It was an inside-outside scoring game for Williams. He had a few layups for a nonexistent defense. He also showed off his outside jumper. He helped close this out with nine points in the final frame. That included the dagger outside bucket that forced the Bulls to clear their bench.

The Thunder increased their lead thanks to their second unit. Williams was part of that. Scoring aside, he helped on the boards with one of his best nights ever in that department. The Bulls' erratic offense helped him gobble up misses on the boards. That helped OKC out in a big way, considering Isaiah Hartenstein was sidelined.

Stitching together a halfcourt offense, the Thunder relied on Williams' playmaking. He served as an offensive hub surrounded by several of their best off-ball cutters. He connected with his teammates on looks around the rim. The 23-year-old fit the ball into tiny windows as he flexed his passing skills.

Another game with the hospital version of OKC, another game where Williams easily scaled up. That might be his best skill. The third-string center has shown over the years that he can do whatever they need out of him. Some nights, it's playing a minimal role. Other nights, it's him having the ball in his hands as a way to create offense without an NBA superstar scorer.

JWill is cleared for takeoff 🛫 pic.twitter.com/SOB7RLSMBY

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Got himself a boom 💥 pic.twitter.com/yBRI8kRxvR

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Isaiah Joe: B

Catching all five Bulls players asleep, Joe hard-cut to the basket before his teammates even crossed halfcourt. He went up for the alley-oop as Williams threw up a pass from the midcourt logo. Despite the distance, it was one of OKC's easiest buckets.

Joe finished with 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting and two rebounds. He shot 2-of-10 from 3 and went 3-of-4 on free throws. He also had one steal.

The outside jumper didn't fall, but Joe has graduated past just being a one-dimensional player. He found other ways to score as he was gifted a few easy looks around the rim. He even knocked down a couple of mid-range jumpers. He had 13 points in the second frame alone to keep the Thunder ahead.

It's been quite a month for Joe. He's turned into a consistent scorer. While it's been awesome to see him ride sizzling outside shooting to become that, the next step in his development was how he'd help out when the jumper didn't fall. You saw that firsthand here.

The Thunder need everybody to help out in these scenarios. It's the only way to overcome Gilgeous-Alexander's absence. No one will truly be a one-for-one replacement. Joe was part of a group effort once again. Even if his hot scoring only lasted one quarter.

JWill just keeps finding Zai 🔥 pic.twitter.com/k1OGRN98Bp

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Aaron Wiggins: B

Crossing over Yabusele, Wiggins lowered his shoulders before he drove to the basket. Losing his balance, he flung up the ball. The circus shot attempt kissed off the backboard as the 27-year-old was laid out on the ground. Finally, his finesse returned.

Wiggins finished with 18 points on 8-of-17 shooting, seven rebounds and four assists. He shot 0-of-5 from 3 and went 2-of-2 on free throws. He also had two steals and one block.

Throughout a tough month, the Thunder have stuck with Wiggins. One bad month suddenly doesn't erase years of work. The 27-year-old has struggled to put the ball through the hoop. He's had the same dribble moves to create separation. But just hasn't had the same efficiency as before.

Receiving the start, Wiggins finally rewarded their patience. He had 14 points in the second half. He flexed his tough shot-making on driving layups that increased in difficulty. Even at awkward angles, he somehow came up with buckets. It was a vintage stretch that has helped him become a main staple in OKC's rotation over the years.

Great way to finish the game. Wiggins helped the Thunder put this one away. Let's see if the momentum can snowball to other games. The 27-year-old is due for a hot streak. He's too good a self-creating scorer to suddenly forget to shoot the ball.

Wiggs is working 🙂‍↕️ pic.twitter.com/AuDPEX4Gqn

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Wiggins 😳 pic.twitter.com/uyrHTt2naR

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Cason Wallace: B

Stealing the ball away from Yabusele, Wallace had an easy lane to the basket. He went with the double-pump transition dunk. The Thunder were about to cross the finish line as they amped it up on the defensive end in the final moments of the game.

Wallace finished with 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting, five assists and one rebound. He shot 1-of-3 from 3 and went 4-of-4 on free throws. He also had two steals.

Considering who was out, Wallace returned to being the traditional point guard. He helped run the offense. Things were too easy for him when he drove to the basket. He also cashed in on a couple of jumpers. Over the last month, he's turned more into a downhill driver.

On defense, Wallace completely shut down Giddey. He was mostly irrelevant — despite a pretty box score. The Bulls had zero synergy together. Think everybody understands that this is just a weird group of veterans and projects who won't stick together beyond this season.

Wallace scored 12 points in the second half. A couple of those buckets came off turnovers. The Thunder had a group effort tonight. Hence why I included an ultra-rare sixth player grade. Too hard to decipher who among the six double-digit scorers needed a special shoutout. So went with all six.

Pulled 🆙 pic.twitter.com/Or31J9Kx0M

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Hit 'em with the lefty 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/HjYTZLH9CW

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

The steals just won't stop 🔥 pic.twitter.com/A6yYZV4008

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) March 4, 2026

Highlights:

This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Player grades: Thunder pull away late in 116-108 win over Bulls

The ending was not what Jason Crowe Jr. wanted, but he got a hug from his mother and praise from his coach/father after Inglewood's 84-65 loss to Damien on Tuesday night in the Southern California Division I regional playoff game.

He finished with 34 points, ending his high school career with a state-record 4,718 points in 124 games, according to CalHiSports.com. He's more than 1,000 points ahead of the next-closest player. His scoring average was 38.0 points.

Jason Crowe Jr. ends his fabulous high school career with 34 points in Inglewood 84-65 loss to Damien. He finishes with 4,718 points in 124 games, the most points in California history. pic.twitter.com/O1Lqcaqwzl

— eric sondheimer (@latsondheimer) March 4, 2026

"I think he's had an amazing high school career," said his father, Jason Sr., who will join his son at Missouri next season serving as an assistant coach. "He had to go against the best defenses every night. I'm proud of him. He brought this program to the Division I level. He was on honor roll every year."

Damien (28-7) had too much firepower for Inglewood (28-7). Eli Garner scored 25 points and Zaire Rasshan had 24 points. Garner had a five-point play and Rasshan added a four-point play. Damien will play at No. 3-seeded Crespi on Thursday. Crespi defeated Bishop Amat 83-66. Isaiah Barnes scored 20 points. Sophomore Aiden Shaw had 25 points for Bishop Amat.

"Incredible career," Damien coach Mike LeDuc said of Crowe Jr.

Mater Dei 86, La Mirada 79: The Monarchs came back from a 12-point halftime deficit to eliminate No. 1-seeded La Mirada on the road in Division I.

St. John Bosco 65, San Marcos 55: Christian Collins scored 30 points and Max Ellis 19 for the Braves.

Venice 61, Riverside Ramona 50: Canaan Rodriguez scored 18 points for Venice in Division IV.

Girls basketball

Oak Park 72, La Jolla Country Day 57: Karisma Flores scored 27 points, including seven of seven from the three-point line, to lead Oak Park.

Sign up for the L.A. Times SoCal high school sports newsletter to get scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.