The post Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs See $320M in One-Day Outflows appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs saw heavy withdrawals on March 5, with nearly $320 million leaving the funds in a single day. Data from SoSoValue shows Bitcoin spot ETFs recorded about $228 million in outflows, with BlackRock’s IBIT seeing the largest withdrawal among the funds. Ethereum spot ETFs also faced pressure, posting $90.94 million in net outflows. Despite the broader trend, BlackRock’s ETHA stood out by attracting $30.25 million in inflows, making it the only major Ethereum ETF to record gains during the day.

The post Bitcoin Supply Shrinks to 2017 Levels as Wallets Hit Record High—Is BTC Price Preparing for a Big Move? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

Bitcoin price is flashing a rare combination of growing adoption and tightening supply, a setup that historically precedes strong price expansions. The bulls are attempting to lift the price above the bearish influence, while the on-chain data has also turned bullish. The BTC wallet holders are rising while the exchange supply is plunging. This divergence suggests that investors are increasingly moving their Bitcoin into long-term storage rather than keeping it ready for sale.

With this, the question arises: Is the price gearing up for a huge price action? Is Bitcoin preparing a move to $100K?

Bitcoin Adoption Continues to Expand

The steady rise in non-empty wallets indicates that Bitcoin’s network participation continues to grow despite recent price volatility. On-chain data from Santiment shows that the number of non-empty Bitcoin wallets has surged to a new all-time high of 58.45 million, up nearly 1.69 million in the past six months. At the same time, the amount of Bitcoin held on exchanges has dropped to 1.17 million BTC — the lowest level since December 2017.

Even more notable is the sharp decline in Bitcoin reserves on centralized exchanges. When BTC leaves exchanges, it typically means that investors are transferring coins to cold storage or long-term custody solutions, reducing the immediate supply available for selling. With only 1.17 million BTC currently held on exchanges, market liquidity is tightening. If demand rises during this period of reduced supply, Bitcoin could face a potential supply squeeze, amplifying price moves to the upside.

Bitcoin Price is Testing Key Support

From a technical perspective, Bitcoin is currently testing a critical resistance zone around $74,000, which previously acted as a strong support level during the 2025 rally. The weekly chart shows that BTC recently broke below an ascending trendline that supported the broader bull cycle. However, a rise above the immediate resistance may only push the price towards the ascending trend line.

The weekly RSI reached the lower threshold and has displayed a bullish divergence, suggesting that selling momentum may be weakening. Meanwhile, the MACD remains in bearish territory, indicating that the market is still in a short-term corrective phase. However, the selling pressure seems to have waned in the long term, and as the MACD levels display, there is the possibility of a bullish crossover, which may ignite a strong recovery.

Key Levels to Watch

• Immediate support: $74,000
• Major support: $48,000
• Trendline resistance: $91,500

A successful reclaim of the trendline could open the door for a retest of the $100,000 psychological level.

What This Means for the Crypto Market

The combination of record wallet growth and declining exchange supply suggests that long-term investors continue accumulating Bitcoin despite the recent pullback. If demand strengthens while exchange reserves remain low, BTC price could experience a supply-driven rally in the coming months.

However, failure to hold the $74K support level could extend the correction toward the $48K demand zone, where stronger buyer interest may emerge. For now, Bitcoin price appears to be in a short-term correction within a broader accumulation phase, with on-chain data hinting that the next major move could still favor the bulls.

The post Will The Pressure Hold For OKB, Humanity Protocol, and Kite After Bitcoin Slips Amid Extended US-Iran War appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

• Bitcoin faces 2% reversal from the 50-day EMA on Thursday, Slips below $71000.
• The surge in altcoins OKB, Human Protocol, and Kite continues to raise concerns.
• Wll the pressure hold for Ethereum, XRP, and these altcoins as the US -Iran War extends? 

Top Cryptocurrencies Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP showed cautious trading, with a roughly 2% pullback near their respective key support levels on Friday. BTC was trading below $71,000, ETH price remained above $ 2,000, and XRP was in sideways consolidation.

Other top-performing cryptos today are OKB (26%), Human Protocol(30%), and Kite(21%), which have spiked, making it to the top coins of the day list. 

OKB Must Close Above 200-D EMA To Sustain. 

OKB exchange native Coin OKB moved nearly 3% since yesterday, adding to its 24% surge from the previous day. This surge was fueled by an Investment of $25B by the New York Stock Exchange’s parent company, Intercontinental Exchange. 

As we see in OKB/USDT daily chart, the declining EMA’s leave a bearish sentiment. OKB coin needs a strong close above its 200D EMA level at $104 for a sustain uptrend. This closing can send it straight to its 50% Retracemenr level at $124.

RSI at 70 shows the coin is overbought zone, but MACD is in bullish side as it crosses the Signal line and a wide histogram.

Currently trading at $97.30, with the increased positive momentum around OKB, it is going to continue the rally. If rejected at any level, it will seek the 50-d EMA as its next at $87.

Humanity Protocol Remains Bullsh

Humanity Protocol extended roughly 4% today to its Thursday gains of 43%. The H has extended its gains above the 200-d EMA and other EMAs, eyes continue to rally as RSI at 57 has reversed from hitting the oversold zone. 

H/USDT attempted the $0.2, and is likely to surpass. If invalidated, it could test $0.13 50% retracement level. 

KITE Coin Bulls Are Strong

KITE Coin stands as the flag bearer of AI Coin in recent trading sessions as all the AI Coins seem to be underperforming. KITE on Friday is up 25%, showing increased buyer dominance. 

The KITE/USDT price chart shows its upward momentum since its launch. The asset is now extending gains above the 200-D EMA and others.

Open Interest in futures surges to 35% to $102.48 million, indicating new positions opening in parallel with the rally. 

With the RSI moving toward the overbought zone, the KITE price may face rejections, but the rally continues. Invalidating this can bring it to its first resistance at $0.23. 

The post Vancouver City Staff Drops Bitcoin Reserve Plan, Says BTC Not Allowed appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

A proposal to make Vancouver a Bitcoin-friendly city is now facing a setback after city officials recommended cancelling the plan. Staff says local law does not allow the city to invest public funds in Bitcoin.

This puts an end to Mayor Ken Sim’s proposal to add Bitcoin to city reserves and accept crypto payments. He had even pledged to donate $10,000 in Bitcoin if the plan was approved.

Bitcoin Not an ‘Allowable Asset’ Under City Law

After reviewing the proposal, officials working for the City of Vancouver have advised the city council to withdraw the plan to add Bitcoin to the city’s financial reserves.

City staff said that Bitcoin does not qualify as an “Allowed Investment” under the Vancouver Charter. This law decides how the city manages its money and what types of assets it is allowed to invest in.

Since Bitcoin is not on the list of approved assets, the city staff recommended ending the work on this proposal. They also suggested that the city should focus its time and resources on other projects that are a higher priority.

The recommendation came during a review of council plans. Officials looked at 181 plans made between 2018 and 2025. 103 are already finished, while the remaining 78, including the Bitcoin plan, are now being checked to decide if they should continue or be stopped

How the Bitcoin Reserve Plan Started?

The proposal “Preserving the City’s Purchasing Power Through Diversification of Financial Reserves – Becoming A Bitcoin Friendly City,” was introduced by Vancouver mayor Ken Sim in November 2024. 

Sim said that Bitcoin could help protect the city’s purchasing power over time. The plan asked city staff to study whether Vancouver could accept payments in Bitcoin and whether a small portion of the city’s financial reserves could be converted into the cryptocurrency.

The city council approved the plan in December 2024 and asked city staff to give an update by early 2025. However, no public report was shared until earlier this week.

Bitcoin’s Price Volatility Ends Vancouver’s Crypto Plan

When Ken Sim made this proposal in December 2024, Bitcoin had just crossed $100,000 for the first time.

Now the BTC price has fallen to around $71,000. City staff in Vancouver say Bitcoin does not qualify as an “allowed investment.”

With staff now recommending that the plan be closed, Vancouver’s plan to become a Bitcoin-friendly city may soon end.

The post Top Crypto Presale: Pepeto Goes Viral, Leaving Bitcoin Hyper and Mutuum Finance Behind as IREN Orders 50,000 Nvidia GPUs appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

IREN just ordered more than 50,000 Nvidia GPUs and filed a potential $6 billion offering to fund its expansion into AI cloud infrastructure, and when the biggest Bitcoin miners on the planet are abandoning pure mining to build AI data centers. 

It tells you the market is repricing around utility and infrastructure in a way that rewards the top crypto presale entries with real products already in development.

IREN Orders 50,000 Nvidia GPUs as Bitcoin Miners Pivot From Mining to AI Infrastructure

CoinDesk reported IREN ordered more than 50,000 Nvidia GPUs and filed for a potential $6 billion at the market share sale to fund AI infrastructure expansion, while Bloomberg data shows TeraWulf, Cipher Mining, and Bitdeer all pivoting away from pure mining toward high performance computing. 

When the industry’s largest operators abandon mining economics to chase AI utility, the top crypto presale is the one already built around real infrastructure, and Pepeto with $7.5M raised and a full exchange in development is exactly where that conviction is flowing.

Top Crypto Presale: Why Traders Are Migrating to Pepeto as Feature Development Fuels Massive Projections

Pepeto: The Top Crypto Presale Winning Over Traders With a Working Exchange Nobody Else Has

The current state of the market has pushed traders to search for the top crypto presale opportunities, and right now, Pepeto is at the center of this conversation. While most presales are still planning for the future, this project has transitioned into full development mode with a SolidProof audit backing every contract, and that move is changing how serious traders look at early stage allocation.

The first major attraction is the straightforward exchange interface. The layout is clean and intuitive, so both new and experienced traders find it easy to use. From the main dashboard, users can move between the cross chain bridge connecting Ethereum, BNB Chain, and Solana, the zero tax trading engine, the risk scoring system that classifies every token before you commit capital, and the portfolio tracker that maps your entire position across chains.

For instance, if you want to bridge assets from Ethereum to Solana while checking the risk score of a token on BNB Chain, you can do it all from one interface without ever leaving the platform. This infrastructure makes Pepeto the top crypto presale and the kind of project that serious capital trusts with real money.

Not only this, but Pepeto’s focus on long term value is clear. The cofounder of the Pepe ecosystem who built a token to $7 billion leads the development, and with $7.5M raised, the conviction behind this presale keeps accelerating with every round.

And 209% APY staking compounds every position daily, building value over time and fueling the kind of accumulation that tightens supply before the listing arrives. As the exchange keeps advancing, now is the best time to enter the top crypto presale before the next development milestone pushes the conversation even further.

Bitcoin Hyper Faces Scaling Questions Despite $31.5M Presale Raise

Bitcoin Hyper positions itself as a Layer 2 solution using the Solana Virtual Machine for faster BTC transactions. 

But the presale has already raised around $31.5M, which reduces explosive growth compared to earlier stage projects. The L2 space is dominated by Arbitrum, Base, and Lightning Network with real users, and the top crypto presale offers better positioning at a fraction of the entry.

Mutuum Finance Shows Traction but DeFi Lending Is Already Dominated

Mutuum Finance markets itself as a decentralized lending protocol with variable rate borrowing and overcollateralized loans. But the lending sector belongs to Aave and Compound with billions in TVL and years of proven security. 

Late stage funding and a crowded niche reduce the potential for explosive returns that the top crypto presale like Pepeto can deliver with a complete exchange.

The Bottom Line

The smartest operators in crypto, from IREN to TeraWulf, are pivoting toward utility because they know that infrastructure is where the real value accrues in this cycle. 

Pepeto is doing the same thing at presale pricing, and the parallel is not lost on the investors who have already committed $7.5M. 

The Bonk holders who bought at six decimal zeros and watched the Solana meme coin create overnight wealth understood timing, and the window sitting open inside Pepeto right now carries that exact same energy. 

Every day you wait is compounding profit you are handing to someone who already bought, and the listing will reprice this token permanently so the entry you see right now simply ceases to exist. 

Visit the Pepeto official website and lock in your position before this presale stage closes and you spend the rest of the cycle wishing you had not hesitated.

Click To Visit Pepeto Website To Enter The Presale

FAQs

What is the top crypto presale to buy in 2026?

The top crypto presale in 2026 is Pepeto with $7.5M raised, 209% APY staking, and exchange infrastructure that no other presale project can match. Visit the Pepeto official website.

Why are Bitcoin miners pivoting to AI infrastructure?

Mining costs now exceed $87,000 per BTC, so miners like IREN are ordering 50,000 GPUs for AI, which proves utility infrastructure is where the market is heading and why Pepeto with a full exchange is the top crypto presale.

Is Bitcoin Hyper a good presale investment?

Bitcoin Hyper raised $31.5M but faces stiff competition from established L2s, while Pepeto at earlier stage pricing with exchange infrastructure offers far greater return potential.

The post XRP Holders Selling at Loss as Price Struggles appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

XRP holders are selling at a loss as market pressure increases. Data from Glassnode shows XRP’s Spent Output Profit Ratio (SOPR) has dropped below 1.0, meaning many investors are selling for less than they paid. The token is trading around $1.41 after failing to break the $1.45 resistance level. A similar pattern was seen during XRP’s long sideways market between 2021 and 2022. Despite the weakness, some investors remain hopeful. They point to possible support from future crypto regulations and speculation about a partnership between Elon Musk’s X Money platform and Ripple-linked Cross River Bank.

“Kəpəz” Azərbaycan kubokunda 35-ci məğlubiyyətini alıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu, 1/4 finalın “Turan Tovuz”la görüşünə təsadüf edib. Qərb derbisində qeydə alınan 0:2 hesablı yenilgi Gəncə klubu üçün kubokda 35-ci olub. “Kəpəz” 114-cü matçında bu qədər məğlubiyət alıb. Gəncə təmsilçisi evdə 16, səfərdə 19 dəfə uduzub.

Qeyd edək ki, Azərbaycan kubokunda yalnız “Neftçi” (43) və MOİK (42) daha çox məğlub olub.

Bizon Azərbaycan kubokunun 1/4 final mərhələsinin “Qəbələ” ilə cavab oyununda (3:3, pen. 4:2) vurulan ilk qol “Sabah” üçün yubiley xarakteri daşıyıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, Bakı klubu turnirdə 25-ci səfər qoluna sevinib. Bu topu rəqib qapısından Timoteuş Puxaç keçirib.

Paytaxt təmsilçisi buna 13-cü matçında nail olub. “Sabah” ölkə kubokuna rəqib meydanlarında 25 və ya daha çox qol vuran 15-ci komandadır.

Qol sayını 27-yə çatdıran “Sabah”ın orta məhsuldarlığı 2,07-yə bərabərdir. Bu, ən azı 3 səfər oyununa çıxan komandalar arasında ən yüksək göstəricidir.

Qeyd edək ki, “Sabah” kubokdakı ilk səfər qolunu 2018/19 mövsümündə 1/8 finalın “Ağsu” ilə qarşılaşmasında vurub – 3:0.

Bizon Azərbaycan kubokunda yarımfinalçılar müəyyənləşib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Qarabağ” 21-ci, “Zirə” 6-cı, “Sabah”la “Turan Tovuz” 2-ci dəfə 1/4 final səddini adlayıb.

“Şamaxı” ilə mübarizədən qalib ayrılan (1:2, 3:1) “Qarabağ” Azərbaycan kubokunun rekorduna şərik çıxıb. Ağdam klubu 21 dəfə finalın bir addımlığına qədər irəliləyən “Neftçi”yə çatıb.

İki matçın yekununda (0:0, 2:0) “Sumqayıt”ı üstələyən “Zirə” isə ən azı 6 dəfə yarımfinala yüksələn 7-ci komanda olub. Şərikli rekordçulardan başqa “Şamaxı” (12), “Qəbələ” (11), “Bakı” və “Xəzər Lənkəran” (hərəsi 8) da bunu bacarıb.

“Turan Tovuz” “Kəpəz”i (1:0, 2:0), “Sabah” “Qəbələ”ni (0:0, 3:3, pen.4:2) dayandırmaqla ən azı 2 dəfə yarımfinala yüksələn komandaların sayını 18-ə çatdırıb.

Qeyd edək ki, indiyədək 33 komanda 1/4 final səddini keçib.

“İmişli” Premyer Liqada 10 oyundur, qələbə qazana bilmir. Bölgə təmsilçisi 22 turdan sonra 21 xalla turnir cədvəlinin 9-cu pilləsində qərarlaşıb.

Komandanın qolkiperi Andrey Sinenka “Futbolpress.az“a açıqlamasında nəticələri dəyərləndirdi:

“Qələbə qazana bilməsək də, xal qazanmağı bacarırıq. Pis oynamırıq və hər matçda maksimumu etməyə çalışırıq. Komandada gərginlik yoxdur, hər şey qaydasındadır. Bütün diqqətimizi oyunlara vermişik”.

XXI turda “Turan Tovuz”la oyunda heç-heçə edən “İmişli” bu mövsüm “Sabah”, “Neftçi” kimi özündən güclü rəqiblərdən də xal almağı bacarıb. Sinenka mübarizənin meydanda getdiyini və hər komandanın bir-birindən xal almaq potensialında olduğunu bildirdi:

“Azərbaycan çempionatının səviyyəsi artıb. Zəif komanda yoxdur. Hər kollektiv bir-birini məğlub edə bilər. Artıq bu mövsüm bir neçə dəfə bunun şahidi olmuşuq. Rəqabət çox yüksəkdir. Biz də favorit olmadığımız görüşlərdən yaxşı nəticə ilə ayrılmağı bacarmışıq”.

“İmişli” növbəti turda “Şamaxı” səfərinə yollanacaq. Bölgə təmsilçisi qələbə qazanacağı halda, liqada qalmaq yolunda böyük addım atmış olacaq. Belaruslu qolkiper matçdan gözləntilərini bölüşdü:

“Şamaxı” azarkeşləri önündə yaxşı çıxış etməyi bacarır. Bizim üçün çətin oyun olacaq. Maksimum güclə hazırlaşırıq. Heç bir komandadan çəkinmirik və çalışacağıq, yaxşı nəticə əldə edək”.

Sinenka karyerası ilə bağlı hədəflərini də açıqladı:

“Düşünürəm ki, pis çıxış etmirəm. Hər gün çox çalışıram. Bu, mənim işimdir. Sevinirəm ki, güclü tərəflərimi göstərə bilirəm. Arzularım, məqsədlərim var və ona addım-addım çatmağa çalışıram. Elə karyera istəyirəm ki, sonda özümə deyə bilim ki, “sən maksimumunu etdin və özünü qınama ki, az çalışmısan”. Görək, gələcək nə göstərəcək”.

Şahin Cəfərov

İngiltərə Premyer Liqasında fevral ayının ən yaxşı futbolçusu adına namizədlər açıqlanıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu ada “Arsenal”dan Viktor Qyökereş, “Mançester Siti”dən Antuan Semenyo, Niko Oreli, “Brentford”dan Danqo Otarra, “Mançester Yunayted”dən Benyamin Şeşko və “Liverpul”dan Vircil Van Dayk namizəd göstərilib.

Qalib yarışın saytında keçirilən sorğu nəticəsində məlum olacaq.

Vyetnamda dünyanın ən böyük stadionu tikiləcək.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə insayder Fabrizio Romano məlumat yayıb.

Hanoyi vilayətindəki arena “Tronq Donq” adlanacaq. Stadionun tutumunun 135 min olacağı planlaşdırılıb.

Təmir işlərinə artıq start verilib. Arenanın nə zamana hazır olacağı bəlli deyil.

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Dante Bichette Jr. hair, explained: Why brother of Bo Bichette is rocking green locks for Brazil at WBC originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One of Team Brazil's biggest storylines ahead of this World Baseball Classic may not be their first appearance in the tournament since 2013. It's the fact that one of their players has green, yellow, and blue hair.

Dante Bichette Jr., son of former MLB player Dante Bichette and the brother of current New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette, has been seen sporting hair that looks straight out of a rock concert.

Bichette Jr. was drafted in the first round of the 2011 MLB draft by the New York Yankees. While he didn't have the neon flow then, he will be donning it during this tournament.

Here is the story behind Bichette Jr.'s hair, which features the same colors as Brazil's flag.

MORE: Ranking the 2026 World Baseball Classic teams 1-20

Dante Bichette Jr hair

Fans will easily be able to spot Bichette Jr. at this year's World Baseball Classic. Here he is pictured with three other teammates from Brazil. Bichette Jr. is featured on the top left.

Team Brazil is back at the #WorldBaseballClassic for the first time since 2013!

• Dante Bichette Jr.
• Joseph Contreras
• Lucas Ramirez
• Thyago Vieira pic.twitter.com/y6ESi5yJFj

— World Baseball Classic (@WBCBaseball) March 3, 2026

This 2025 interview with Bichette Jr. features him discussing the 6-hour process of dying his hair, which required bleaching and dyeing it strand by strand.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Around The Diamond Baseball Media (@_aroundthediamond)

Bichette Jr. originally dyed his hair green, yellow, and blue to match Brazil's flag. However, according to Bichette, the hot Brazilian sun drowned out the green, creating a more neon yellow set of locks (with a hint of blue, per Bichette Jr.)

MORE: Full schedule, times, TV channels for 2026 World Baseball Classic

Why does Dante Bichette Jr. have green hair?

While St. Patrick's Day shares the same date as the WBC Championship game (March 17), Bichette Jr. did not dye his hair to channel his inner leprechaun.

Bichette Jr. hasn't given a specific reason for the green color, but it does match the most prevalent color on Brazil's flag.

Last year, Bichette Jr. wanted to match Brazil's flag with a "green, yellow, blue, yellow, green" color scheme while representing the country in WBC qualifiers. However, eventually the sun bleached his hair completely yellow.

Luckily for Bichette Jr., Brazil will play their group games against the U.S., Italy, and Great Britain in Houston's Daikin Park. The home of the Astros is equipped with a retractable roof that is usually closed due to Houston's arid temperatures.

MORE: World Baseball Classic rosters by MLB team

Why is Dante Bichette Jr. on Brazil?

Bichette Jr.'s mother, Mariana, calls Brazil her home country. This means both of her sons are eligible to play for the green, yellow, and blue.

Both Bichette brothers were lined up to share the diamond together for Brazil. However, in January, Bo pulled out of the competition. 

Bichette’s father, former Major Leaguer Dante Bichette, is an American, so Bichette Jr. also has eligibility to play for the United States, but decided to represent Brazil.

MORE: Mets' Bo Bichette withdraws from WBC for Brazil

Are Dante Bichette Jr. and Bo Bichette related?

Bichette Jr. is the older brother of the current Mets' shortstop. Bichette Jr. is the older brother who was born in 1992, while Bo was born in 1998. 

Bichette Jr. was a former first-round selection in the 2011 MLB draft by the New York Yankees.

Both brothers are the sons of former MLB player Dante Bichette. Their father played for five Major League Baseball teams over a 14-season career (1988–2001). Bichette Sr. was a four-time All-Star outfielder for the Colorado Rockies and also played for the California Angels, Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, and Boston Red Sox.

Interview

Patrice Neveu discusses dual nationals targeted by Togo

Patrice Neveu/@CAF

In an exclusive interview with “Foot Africa”, French coach Patrice Neveu, the new head coach of the Togo national team, addressed the issue of dual-nationality players who could strengthen the national squad as they look ahead to the qualifiers for AFCON 2027.

The former Guinea manager confirmed interest in several promising profiles.

“Yes, there are players who could join the project. But the most important thing is to present them with a clear direction and a solid structure first. The players have a very intense schedule with their clubs, sometimes playing every three days. So it’s crucial to show them that the national team is a serious, well-structured project,” he stated, before adding: “There’s Lilian Brassier, the Stade Rennais defender, and also Marvin Senaya, the right-back from AJ Auxerre,” he continued.

Drawing on his experience across the continent, Patrice Neveu will look to restore pride to a Togo side that has been struggling for momentum since their historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

• Reaction as Tottenham lose again in the Premier League and sit just one point above the bottom three
• Spurs were beaten 3-1 at home to Crystal Palace after having Micky van de Ven sent off in the first half
• It leaves Spurs 16th in the league and without a win since December, while their relegation rivals - West Ham and Nottingham Forest - picked up valuable points this week
• Tottenham boss Igor Tudor says despite the nature of the defeat, he 'believes more than before' while striker Dominic Solanke says the team need to 'fight'
• Former Chelsea winger Joe Cole said there was 'no bite and no anger' and that 'it feels like they have given up'
• Before kick-off, Opta gave Tottenham a 8% chance of relegation while afterwards, that rose to 16.1%

'It feels like they have given up' - reaction as Spurs relegation fears deepen

Liverpool’s interest in Michael Olise can’t be discounted amid Bayern Munich’s plan to offer the forward a new contract.

The Merseyside giants have the Frenchman in their sights, with the club keen to bolster both wings (which have largely underperformed this term).

Mo Salah, though no question a legendary figure at Anfield, appears to be nearing the end of the line at L4. The arrival of the former Crystal Palace man would certainly go some way to plugging the gap should the Egypt international depart in the summer.

Liverpool’s interest in Michael Olise remains

Bayern, of course, do have the benefit of time on their hands, with three years set to remain on Olise’s deal even after the 2025/26 campaign.

“Michael Olise is currently on a contract running until 2029, and Bayern Munich would love to have him sign a new contract until 2031. But this all takes time,” Christian Falk exclusively informed CF Bayern Insider.

“With three years left on Olise’s current terms, Bayern have time on their hands. But, of course, they also heard that Liverpool are interested and Manchester City is watching the player.

“But they also have the Konrad Laimer contract negotiations to think about, the Harry Kane negotiations… It’s a complicated situation. What if you sign one player until 2031 and then the others say, ‘Hey, I want a longer contract’?”

However, given Liverpool’s increasingly clear need on the right flank, it’s not a situation those at Säbener Straße will be keen to let play out.

* Michael Olise’s stats across all competitions for Bayern this term (Transfermarkt)

Of course, as far as Liverpool interest is concerned, that particular concern may be taken care of on its own should Arne Slot’s men fall outside of the Champions League spots.

Bayern are playing a dangerous game

From Liverpool’s perspective, assuming that they can secure elite European football for the 2026/27 season, there is an opportunity here.

“It’s a bit of a dangerous game; the longer you wait, the more it invites other clubs to pick up the phone and call the player,” Falk went on to add.

“Michael Olise isn’t, at the moment, one of the top earners (picking up around €15m [£13m]. Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane perhaps earn about €10m more.

“Bayern can always give the right winger more money, but the longer they wait, the more complicated the situation becomes. Bayern don’t want another ‘Upamecano case’. Nobody wants that!”

At £13m a year, that would put Olise joint-level with Cody Gakpo (allegedly Liverpool’s fourth-best paid player in the squad).

* Liverpool’s top earners compared to Michael Olise (Capology)

However, if Mo Salah were to depart in the summer, a significant chunk of the wage bill would be freed up, enabling the Reds to go big with a contract offer of their own.

Of course, Bayern would have to first agree to a transfer, and they’re hardly under any pressure to accept a bid with three years remaining on the 24-year-old’s deal.

Still, time is of the essence. Max Eberl and Co. need to hand Michael Olise a contract genuinely befitting of his current status at the club and in world football.

Adrian Newey, along with representatives from Honda, spoke to the media on Thursday in Australia about Aston Martin’s rough start to the 2026 season.

Even the press conference didn’t go smoothly, with technical issues throughout.

Aston Martin have found themselves in serious trouble heading into the 2026 F1 opener in Melbourne. There are even doubts about whether they’ll be able to take part in qualifying for Sunday’s Grand Prix.

On Thursday, team boss Adrian Newey addressed reporters at Albert Park and outlined a long list of problems currently facing engineers back at Silverstone.

Newey pointed directly at the Honda engine as the main issue, noting that vibrations from the power unit were so severe during pre-season tests that they caused wing mirrors to fall off the AMR26.

The team has even raised safety concerns after meetings with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll suggested there could be deeper issues with the power unit.

This kind of situation is rare for a team of Aston Martin’s stature, and it hasn’t been helped by how poorly their early season communications have gone either.

Adrian Newey left frustrated as press conference suffers technical glitches

Nate Saunders from ESPN reported that the session was interrupted several times by microphone problems, which felt in line with the run of form the team is going through.

“The press conference was effectively Aston Martin making Honda admit their failures so far. I’ve not seen many press conferences like it.

“It just seemed to sum up more perfectly than anything else could just the situation that Aston Martin are in. You know, even the microphones they couldn’t get working.

“Whatever they’re trying to do at the moment goes wrong for them. And it’s a really startling thing for them to be in.”

And then he added a bit of positivity, pointing out how calm Alonso and Stroll remained despite all the problems.

Saunders said: “I was actually quite impressed that both drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, were in pretty good spirits, given the situation and given the kind of doom and gloom kind of being conveyed from Aston Martin externally by a lot of team members.”

Don’t expect a quick fix to Aston Martin’s problems

Worries about the AMR26’s performance really started to grow after the final pre-season test wrapped up in February.

Across six days of running in Sakhir, Aston Martin didn’t manage a single full race simulation, held back by ongoing problems with their Honda power unit.

Honda have said they expect to find a solution before round two in China, but many F1 insiders are sceptical that will happen so quickly.

Ralf Schumacher has predicted it could take ‘several months’ for Honda’s engine department to even sort out the core issues, and probably even longer before the engine becomes truly competitive.

If there’s any positive for Aston Martin right now, it might be that they’ve already hit rock bottom. Things can only get better from here – or at least, that’s what they’ll be hoping.

Read more:

The Los Angeles Lakers fell behind very early on Thursday to the Denver Nuggets, and despite making a couple of rallies, they ultimately fell short by a final score of 120-113. To add injury to insult, two of their starters got hurt during the game.

Early on, center Deandre Ayton had to leave and was later ruled out due to knee soreness, an ailment he had previously dealt with recently. Late in the game, LeBron James took a nasty spill right after making a layup and hurt his elbow. He exited the game and returned a little later, but he admitted afterward that it was still hurting him.

"It's pretty sore right now," James said. "Feeling like one of them funny bone situations, but super more intense."

There were times during the game when the Lakers were upset with the officiating. Luka Doncic was hit with his 15th technical foul at one point, which left him one technical foul away from an automatic one-game suspension. James implied that he felt Nikola Jokić should've been called for a foul when he fell and banged his elbow.

"It’s the same [expletive]. ‘Marginal.’ It’s the same [expletive]. It’s, it’s, it’s … whatever. That’s all they keep saying is, ‘marginal.’ I’m so [expletive] tired of that word."

James ended up with 16 points on 7-of-11 field-goal shooting, five rebounds, eight assists, three steals and one block. In the first quarter, he hit a turnaround jumper to surpass Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most made field goals in NBA history.

The Lakers won't have much time to rest. They will return home to host the Indiana Pacers on Friday, and they will then play a Sunday matinee game against the surging New York Knicks.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: LeBron James on how his hurt elbow felt after Thursday's loss

One hundred and seven days on and we're still pinching ourselves. It wasn't a dream. Scotland are going to the World Cup.

And 100 days from now, they will end their 28-year wait and kick a ball on the biggest stage of all once again against Haiti on Sunday, 14 June, 02:00 BST - live on the BBC.

As the clock counts down, things have become a little more real. But only a wee bit.

Scouting reports of stars from Brazil, Morocco and Haiti are being hastily fired around group chats, Steve Clarke has sorted his Scotland squad's base camp in Charlotte and the Tartan Army know they can don their sporrans in stadiums stateside.

But there are still a lot of questions facing the head coach. Here, BBC Scotland takes a look at some of them.

• McFadden, McTominay, Gemmill... Who scored Scotland's most iconic goal?
• Iran, the US, and a World Cup that starts in three months
• Follow our dedicated Scotland page for the best build-up to the World Cup

Who's a goer in goals?

As has been the case of late, Scotland are suffering from something of a goalkeeper crisis.

Craig Gordon was heroic between the sticks back in November, despite conceding three goals in Athens and two against the Danes at Hampden.

However, the 43-year-old has been all-but ruled out of this month's friendlies against Japan and Ivory Coast with a shoulder injury.

The Hearts goalkeeper has missed the Scottish Premiership leaders' past two matches, having sat on the bench for the four proceeding games.

That's also where Angus Gunn has been spending his time recently. Although it is an improvement given he missed 10 Premier League matchday squads for Nottingham Forest either side of a knee injury in November and December.

Liam Kelly has kept two clean sheets in his two games for Rangers since Scotland qualified for the World Cup (both in the Scottish Cup), while Falkirk's Scott Bain remains the only goalkeeper Clarke has recently included in his squads to be playing regular football.

The 34-year-old told BBC Scotland earlier this week he is "really hopeful" of being involved in this month's camp, which could play a pivotal part in realising his dream of being at the tournament this summer.

Who could make a late run?

It will need to be a pretty decent run to catch the eye of the fiercely loyal Clarke, mind you.

For Euro 2024, Celtic winger James Forrest timed his upturn in form to perfection and made the plane to Germany, while Bristol City defender Ross McCrorie was the only uncapped player there.

Ryan Jack was something of an outsider, given his lack of game time at Rangers, but the midfielder had long been one of Clarke's trusted servants.

Current Bournemouth winger Ben Gannon-Doak, then uncapped, was named in the squad, but was forced out by an injury.

Other than that, many would have comfortably been able to name Clarke's squad. Nothing too much has changed since then, with the head coach seldom shaking up his squad.

He does still sometimes surprise us - and has previously said "there's always room for an outsider" - and this month's double-header could allow for a shock inclusion or two since there are a few regulars struggling with injury.

Former Scotland manager Gordon Strachan has called for Oli McBurnie to be involved. The 29-year-old Hull City striker, who last appeared for his country five years ago, has scored 13 goals in 21 Championship games this term.

• Regragui departs as Morocco appoint Ouahbi as new coach
• Hickey adds to Scotland injury woes for March friendlies

Further back, Stephen O'Donnell has made a case for a recall with his fine form at high-flying Motherwell. And the 33-year-old isn't the only Steelman involved in the conversation among punters, with uncapped Stephen Welsh and one-time cap Paul McGinn also being touted.

All three have played a pivotal role in the Fir Park side's incredible defensive record - conceding just 18 goals in 28 games - this season. It's one of the best in Europe.

Another side making folk sit up across the continent are Heart of Midlothian, with Harry Milne one of the Premiership leaders' standout performers.

However, left-back is an area the Scots are rather blessed in, with Clarke having called on Sassuolo's Josh Doig recently to cover Andy Robertson, Kieran Tierney and Aaron Hickey.

What's going on with the preparations?

While the squad selection is very much in the head coach's hands, there are a few things outside his control causing a bit of a stir.

Most notably, the dispute between Foxborough town chiefs - where the Gillette Stadium, which is due to host Scotland's first two group games against Haiti and Morocco, is located - and those responsible for security funding over a reported shortfall.

However, Massachusetts governor Maura Healey insisted "the World Cup is going to happen".

"It is going to be in Massachusetts," she said. "It's going to be great to have people come from all over the world and see our awesome state."

Another state Scots will see is New Jersey. There's just a little uncertainty over the opposition.

Although it was not officially announced, it was understood Scotland's final pre-tournament friendly was to be against Peru.

However, it appears Spain will now play Peru, forcing the Scots to find another opponent for the fixture on 6 June.

Clarke expressed his desire to face a South American nation and Venezuela have been widely linked as the replacements.

There will also be a new face opposite Clarke for Scotland's second match at the finals, in the form of Mohamed Ouahbi, after Morocco parted ways with head coach Walid Regragui on Thursday.

The 50-year-old led them to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup - the first African side to reach that stage of the tournament - and to the final of this year's Africa Cup of Nation, which was held in Morocco.

Senegal prevailed in a chaotic and controversial showpiece, in what proved to be Regragui's final game in charge.

USA World Baseball Classic uniforms: Inside the classic home, away jerseys and hats for 2026 WBC originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The United States has dreams of gold in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. It won't be bringing home any prizes when it comes to winning fashion shows, however.

Team USA has generally used international competitions -- like the Olympics and World Cup -- as an opportunity to showcase its style. The WBC hasn't quite gotten that treatment, however. Nike outfitted USA's 2023 roster in a fairly drab offering. In 2026, the jersey manufacturers are doing the same -- much to the chagrin of baseball fans worldwide.

When Bryce Harper, Aaron Judge and Bobby Witt Jr. take to the diamond, they'll be awash in red, white and blue. That isn't necessarily a good thing this time around, though.

Here's what you need to know about USA's World Baseball Classic uniforms in 2026

USA World Baseball Classic uniforms

Three years after last sporting the red, white and blue, the United States is going to that well once more, donning an almost-identical entry this time around.

Nike's 2026 kits are lacking in any real vigor, with the home jerseys featuring a classic white shirt adorned with hints of navy blue along the collar and buttons. USA is emblazoned across the front of the jersey, with the 'S' marked by a stripe pattern that pays tribute to the United States flag.

If the jersey looks familiar, that's because it is. The strip is essentially unchanged from its 2023 predecessor. The away jersey sings a similar refrain, its navy blue backing and red-and-white side panel having been introduced during the 2023 WBC.

Could the Team USA hat bear more captivating fruit? No, it could not. The lid is also a retread of the Americans' 2023 look. For the second-straight year, Team USA's logo -- a 'U' and 'S' entangled in bold lettering atop a gray star -- will feature on its cap.

When Marcus Rashford arrived at Barcelona on loan from Manchester United, the move immediately became one of the biggest talking points surrounding the club. 

The English forward joined the Catalan side after a difficult spell, which led to plenty of debate about what version of Rashford Barcelona would actually get.

Months later, one player who sees the forward every day in training is Robert Lewandowski. 

Speaking to Sky Sports (h/t SPORT), the Barcelona striker gave a clear assessment of Rashford and the qualities he brings to the team.

According to Lewandowski, it did not take long for him to realise the level of ability Rashford possesses.

“After a few training sessions, no. He has enormous potential,” said the Barcelona veteran.

The Polish striker then described the wide range of attributes the England international offers on the pitch. 

He said that Rashford’s profile is that of a modern attacker who can influence games in multiple ways.

“He has it all. He has speed, he has technique, he has a shot, he has a left foot, a right foot, dribbling.”

Rashford’s biggest strength

However, Lewandowski believes Rashford’s biggest strength is not just his physical ability but the mentality he shows when he feels trusted by his teammates and coaches.

“Marcus is the kind of player who, if you give him confidence and he sees that you believe in him, can give you 200% in return.”

Lewandowski has nothing but praise for Rashford. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Their relationship has also developed away from matches and training sessions. 

The two attackers share moments together at the club’s facilities, which has helped create a friendly atmosphere between them inside the dressing room.

“He’s a very nice guy. We talk because we sit together in the locker room. We also play ping-pong,” he says.

Inside jokes

Naturally, the competitive nature of footballers appears even in their games of table tennis. Lewandowski joked about their matches, insisting he still holds the upper hand.

”He improved, but he couldn’t beat me in any game! He has to change opponents!”

The experienced striker also took the opportunity to address a topic that often appears in discussions about him, which is his age. 

Despite continuing to perform at a high level, Lewandowski believes some criticism aimed at him has been unfair.

“‘He’s old and can’t run,’ they say. And I look at my stats and how I compare to different forwards, and I was among the players who pressed the most during games.”

For Lewandowski, statistics and performances tell a different story from the one sometimes pushed by critics.

“Sometimes what people say is funny because it doesn’t make sense. But for some people, it’s easier to find an excuse to write something about someone,” he concluded.

According to a report from Fichajes, Real Madrid have shifted their attention toward Enzo Fernandez after realising that signing Vitinha from Paris Saint-Germain would be extremely difficult.

Notably, the Chelsea midfielder has long been admired within the Madrid hierarchy. 

In fact, the club has monitored him closely since his early days at River Plate, when he first began attracting attention as one of South America’s most promising midfield talents.

Within Real Madrid, the Argentine is viewed as a player who could bring balance to a midfield already packed with energy and physical strength. 

Madrid’s current group of midfielders offers athleticism and dynamism, but the club believes adding a player capable of dictating the tempo could take the team to another level.

Ready to go big

For that reason, the report claims that Real Madrid are considering a massive offer of around €120 million in an attempt to convince Chelsea to open negotiations next summer.

The idea behind the move would be to secure a playmaker capable of organising the game and enhancing the strengths of Madrid’s attacking stars. 

Real Madrid are interested in Enzo Fernandez. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

A midfielder with Fernandez’s profile could potentially become a central figure in the club’s long-term project.

However, completing such a deal will be far from simple, as Chelsea have no plans to part ways with the Argentine international, who remains tied to the club through a long-term contract that runs until 2032.

Because of that agreement, any potential transfer would likely depend on the player himself expressing a strong desire to move. 

Without pressure from the footballer, convincing the London club to sell could prove extremely complicated.

Despite the obstacles, Real Madrid are believed to be confident in the power of their sporting project and the global appeal of the club. 

The chance to wear the Madrid shirt and compete regularly for the biggest trophies in Europe could play a role if negotiations eventually begin.

As such, the player’s representatives are said to be aware of the growing interest from Madrid, and speculation about possible informal contacts has already started circulating in international media.

There is no doubt that during the upcoming summer transfer window, Hugo Viana will look to fill any holes in the Manchester City squad. Manchester City’s squad only needs a few minor tweaks to complete its rebuild. A summer move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson seems to be one such move that City will make. Graeme Bailey has reported for TeamTalk that Elliot Anderson’s potential move to the Etihad is considered a “done deal in football circles”. That seems to be one deal that Hugo Viana will attempt to tie up next summer. There is seemingly another move for a versatile full-back that could be on the cards by Manchester City in a bid to strengthen their full-back positions.

A Daily Mail report indicates that Tino Livramento is expected to complete a move to Manchester City in the summer.

Craig Hope provided a report for the  Daily Mail that may be the biggest clue yet as to who Manchester City will look to sign at right-back this summer. As per Craig Hope’s reports it is reported that Tino Livramento has not engaged in talks with Newcastle United over a contract extension with the club. Furthermore, it is reported that after the 25/26 season is complete, Livramento will only have two years remaining on his current contract. Due to this, Hope believes that Newcastle will consider selling Livramento this summer. Lastly, it is reported by Craig Hope that after speaking to sources, it is believed that Livramento will sign for Manchester City this summer.

It would seem that City have two big moves lined up for this summer.

Manchester City are not a club that stands still in the transfer market with Hugo Viana at the helm. This has been proven in the past two transfer windows with Viana either steering the ship or working alongside Txiki Begiristain. The recent January transfer window is a prime example of this. City signed Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth and Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace. Both players have quickly become vital for Pep Guardiola’s side as Hugo Viana acted quickly and decisively in the January window. Based on recent reports, it seems that Viana has identified two transfer targets that will fill needs in this Manchester City squad.

Recent reports indicate that Manchester City seems set to move for Elliot Anderson and Tino Livramento this summer. Both players are England internationals and proven Premier League performers. The strengths of Elliot Anderson as a midfielder are well-known, as are the persistent injury concerns that surround Tino Livramento despite his quality as a player. If City are as committed to signing the pair as recent reports suggest, Manchester City and Hugo Viana will have done their due diligence ahead of two big-money moves. It now remains to be seen if recent reports, including Craig Hope’s for the Daily Mail are proven to be on the money.

It would seem that a major clue has emerged as to who Manchester City will target to slot in at right-back. That player seems to be Newcastle United’s versatile full-back Tino Livramento. If Craig Hope’s and Graeme Bailey’s reports on Elliot Anderson moving to the Etihad are correct, Manchester City could be about to get a lot stronger next summer.

Igor Tudor claimed to have more belief Tottenham would stay up despite a 3-1 home loss to Crystal Palace piling the pressure on the interim boss.

West Ham’s win at Fulham on Wednesday started a disastrous 24-hour period for the north London club with this fifth straight defeat for Spurs meaning they are only one point above the Premier League relegation zone with nine fixtures left.

Dominic Solanke’s 34th-minute opener looked to have turned the tide for Tottenham, but stand-in captain Micky van de Ven was inexplicably sent off four minutes later and they conceded three times during the remainder of the first half.

Plenty of Spurs fans headed for the exit doors at half-time and while Tudor’s depleted group showed some spirit in the second half, this latest defeat extended the club’s winless run to 11 matches, which is a new club record in the Premier League.

Tudor was hired last month to provide an upturn in results, but instead has become the first Tottenham manager in the Premier League era to lose his first three matches and had to face questions over his future after full-time.

Asked if he expected the Spurs hierarchy to let him carry on, Tudor responded: “I don’t think in that direction. I have my job to do and that’s all.

“Of course I understand the fans. It’s a normal thing that happens in football. They are disappointed. They wanted more. We are aware of that.

“We also wanted to give more. Unfortunately this is the moment that we pay everything. One red card change everything.

“I will tell you now maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than I believed before. I saw something.

“I need to choose the right guys because the boat is going in the direction that I want to go and needs to go and who is in the boat can stay. Otherwise they can bow down, or how do you say that, leave the boat.

“So, when the other players will come back and choosing the right (players), I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come back. It’s not easy to accept the moment where we are now but it is how it is.”

It was a different story for Crystal Palace and they are now 10 points above the bottom three after an Ismaila Sarr brace was sandwiched between a fine strike by Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Sarr could have walked away with a hat-trick had his 29th-minute effort not been ruled out for offside, which VAR images showed was due to his nose.

There's your Palace pic.twitter.com/g6XmOSGjiM

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) March 5, 2026

Oliver Glasner said: “We played a very good first half in total. Started very well, did well, scored a goal and we all felt we were 1-0 up. Then it is disallowed and I said to Ismaila your nose is too long!

“Then all of a sudden two minutes later one poor defending after a set-play and we are 1-0 down, but I really loved the reaction of the group.

“All of a sudden the crowd and stadium was loud, it looked like it gave them a little bit of belief and then immediately we are on the front foot again.

“We get the penalty, the red card and then score another two fantastic goals before half-time so really great.”

There's a new Roberto Firmino at Liverpool based on what the club's U21 head-coach has said.

Let's be honest, there will never be a no.9 like Bobby. He was one of a kind.

While the Brazilian was a talented goalscorer, what truly made him special at Anfield was his selflessness.

Rather than focusing purely on scoring himself, Firmino was often the glue that facilitated Mo Salah and Sadio Mane.

His intelligent movement and ability to drop deep created space for the duo to exploit.

It was the humility that he played with, and the flair that he had. All the while playing with that iconic toothy smile. Firmino was the best of us.

There's no surprise that since his departure Liverpool still haven't really been able to replace him.

What truly set Firmino apart and the element of his game that Liverpool are missing the most right now is his pressing.

Few players in modern football were as relentless as he was.

Firmino’s pressing wasn’t just about chasing opponents, it was about timing. He just had an awareness for anticipating when to make his move, when to cut those passing lanes, and force mistakes at exactly the right moment.

Firmino was the brilliant cog in Klopp's gegenpress machine, he became the engine that sparked attacks and created turnovers high up the pitch enabling the Reds to play their heavy metal football.

His absence has left a void in Liverpool’s ability to suffocate opponents and regain possession in the final third. Arne Slot's side are struggling in the pressing side of their game a lot right now.

However, not all hope is lost. There may be an exciting wonderkid who has that same pressing intensity and who could become the next Firmino.

Liverpool's U21 coach Rob Page spoke to Redmen TV about Lewis Koumas, and highlighted the Welsh wonderkid's pressing ability in particular, explaining how he actually had to instruct him to sometimes ease his pressing because of the intensity that he played with.

"He’s a great lad. I had a pre-season with him, and he’s great to work with. He’s got a great attitude. You want to pull the reins on him to stop him pressing, which is great, isn’t it? You’re trying to get players to encourage them to press high and aggressively, but it’s quite the opposite with him" Page said.

"I’ve seen a couple of his goals. He’s always off the last man, playing off the shoulder. He likes that physicality. Sometimes it’s a tackle as he’s finishing, so he’s great one-on-one. It’s great to see him in that form. Great support staff at Hull.

"I know Dean Holden quite well, who’s the assistant there, so he’ll give him all the support he needs. Great for our football club to have young players going out and playing really well and helping us develop them.

"And great for Welsh football, obviously, because we’ve got the play-offs coming up and two big games in March and Craig (Bellamy) will no doubt want all his young players playing well at a decent level, and he falls into that category.”

Koumas has been in great form at Hull, and he's still young. We've seen glimpses of his talent in the first-team and perhaps when he returns pre-season this summer could offer him the opportunity to establish himself as a third option behind Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak.

Where would Celtic be without Benji?

That man Benjamin Nygren yet again proved to be our saviour, with his goal at Pittodrie saving us from falling further behind in the title race. Instead we leapfrogged the Rangers to move into second place and in doing so saw our odds at the bookies tighten.

That effort was the Swede’s 19 goal of the season, and those efforts alongside his seven assists make the former Nordsjaelland man our most valuable asset, it’s not even up for debate.

Nygren’s 26 goal contribution is impressive

26 goal contributions in 49 games is a mighty impressive achievement, especially for a man not renowned as an out and out goalscorer, and one who isn’t what you would call a ‘fans favourite’ Benji also sits second in the league goalscoring charts with only the impressive Tawanda Maswanhise of Motherwell scoring more.

Benjamin Nygren at Ibrox. theRangers 2 Celtic 2. Sunday 1st March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

Indeed Benji’s minutes per goal ratio is 1.23 to the Zimbabweans 1.26, granted the Swede has played four more games, it’s still an impressive stat.

Despite all this evidence of his prowess, there is still reservations from some Celtic supporters, towards Benji, but the stats don’t lie, and the £2 million summer signing is certainly our most effective players, with his ability to pop up with a vital goal proving ever so important in a campaign we have been totally out of sorts.

Contribution reminiscent of Ronne Glavin’s

His goalscoring contribution hasn’t been seen since perhaps Ronnie Glavin in the 1970s. The 24 year old Sweden international has scored in the majority of our games this campaign. Strikes such as the decisive goals in tight away games such as the narrow 1-0 win over Falkirk, the equaliser in the dramatic comeback at Rugby Park, as well as Wednesday night’s winner at Pittodrie, goals that have been instrumental in keeping us in the title race.

Benji has also made his mark in Europe registering four strikes in the Europa league, so he is without doubt our most valuable asset at this moment in time.

22.02.2026 Celtic v Hibernian, Scottish Premiership. Benjamin Nygren’s goal celebration Photo Kenny Ramsay IMAGO

We all owe the Swede a great deal of gratitude for his service this tough campaign, as if it wasn’t for his goal contributions, one can only wonder the predicament we would currently be experiencing.

Nygren has yet to score against the Rangers, he’ll be looking to add that achievement to his resume this weekend.

Ander Limpar praises Nygren

Yesterday on The Celtic Star we reported on what former Sweden international midfielder Anders Limpar has been saying about Benjamin Nygren. Here’s what Limpar had to say about Celtic’s top goalscorer.

Obviously, Nygren moved from FC Nordsjaelland to Celtic and he has done so well scoring a lot of goals,” Limpar said. “I have seen him play many times for Sweden as well and he is fantastic.

“He is not as good as Isak or Gyokeres to play up front, and he is not as good as Forsberg, Elanga or Kulusewski to be in the starting eleven, but he is a hell of a player. When he plays, he is always creating so many chances and when he plays for Sweden he plays up front.

Benjamin Nygren celebrates. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

‘He is a hell of a prospect’

“Playing for Celtic he is playing a different position, but he is so usable in many positions,”the former Sweden international noted. “He is good at set pieces and I don’t even think we have seen the best from him yet. He is a hell of a prospect but it is a shame for him he is playing in a golden generation for the Swedish national team, because he is not among the best eleven, but on the other hand with his performances for Celtic it will be tough to keep him out.”

“He can play so many different positions and is very usable.”

Benjamin Nygren scores the winner. Aberdeen v Celtic, Scottish Premiership. Wednesday 4th March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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La Gazzetta dello Sport

Scudetto derby, the super challenge in midfield

Inter want Barellik back

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More and more Allegri

Max, the project continues: renewal and pay rise ready

Napoli for the Champions, Toro for the comeback

Corriere dello Sport

Max saves it?

Decisive derby

The league asks Milan to stop runaway Inter

Chivu can close it: Allegri is the last obstacle

Leao and Pulisic dream of the coup to go to -7. Bartesaghi doubts: Estupinan is ready on the left. Thuram and Pio Esposito to extend the lead to 13 points. Calhanoglu favourite over Mkhitaryan in central midfield.

Napoli must win

Hojlund makes his 30th consecutive appearance, chasing 10 Serie A goals for the first time. Sal Da Vinci’s show at the Maradona, coming from the Sanremo triumph

Spalletti waits for Yildiz’s goals

Decisive Kenan contribution in the race for the Champions League. Vlahovic still in doubt for Pisa

Dybala stops: 3/4 of Roma

Stop for La Joya. Pellegrini and Pisilli behind Malen at Marassi. Gasp: ‘My most difficult challenge here.’

Tuttosport

Juventus call Vicario

First contact with the Tottenham goalkeeper

The Italian wants to leave Spurs, who value him at 20-25m. Inter and Roma also in the race. Intrview to Rampulla: ‘I like Guglielmo, but Di Gregorio deserves trust. I think rotations in goal don’t work.’ Defence: acceleration for Senesi.

D’Aversa is looking for a miracle and a contract

The Granata coach aims to secure survival and to be confirmed for next season. The Maradona continues to protest against Cairo: ‘Out of the stadium until the end of the season.’

Stramaccioni plays Milan-Inter

‘Another Leao with Max. Barella, do a Lautaro.’

The coach and pundit: ‘Allegri has brought the mentality of a top side and with Rabiot and Modric…Chivu respects everyone but follows his pathway.’

Tottenham fan Chris Cowlin says the team "completely lack fight and desire" as the possibility of relegation becomes a "reality".

"I'm lost for words with what I've seen," he told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast after Thursday's 3-1 home defeat by Crystal Palace.

"You want fight, you want desire and, most importantly, you need the points to get out of this mess.

"How are we going to do it because what is an easy game for us right now? Whoever we play against we're struggling, especially at home.

"At the start pf the game the fans were up for it and very much behind the players, but under Igor Tudor now it's three games, three defeats and nine goals conceded.

"The fans are extremely disappointed and angry in the manner of these goals we're conceding.

"At half-time, hundreds - if not thousands - left the stadium because they'd seen too much. It's too much for a lot of people and the reality now is Spurs might get relegated.

"When we moved into this stadium in 2019 it was supposed to be a game-changer for us and the springboard to success and competing for top honours.

"If we don't buck up our ideas very quickly we will find ourselves in the Championship. All the other teams down there are showing fight and desire, and we lack that completely."

"I've never known a time like this and it's very sad to see."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

Loved by their fans but loathed by rivals, free‑spending Wrexham have done to the English Football League what Chelsea did to European football in 2003.

The Welsh club's rise from the fifth‑tier National League to the Championship has been dramatic, and they have now reached the FA Cup fifth round for the first time in 19 years - hosting a glamour tie against Chelsea on Saturday, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer (17:45 GMT).

The match, one of the biggest in Wrexham's 162-year history, comes after significant financial backing from Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, who bought Wrexham for a nominal amount in 2021. That investment has prompted accusations from rivals that the club are buying success.

Chelsea faced similar criticism in 2003 when a little-known Russian oligarch, Roman Abramovich, transformed the club by buying it for £140m and writing off £80m of debt. Using his private wealth, Abramovich did not need to balance the books and spent £121.3m on 11 players in his first summer in charge.

Some argue his arrival paved the way for the Abu Dhabi‑backed takeover of Manchester City and Qatar's acquisition of Paris St‑Germain, moves that prompted the Premier League and European football authorities to introduce financial controls.

And while a wave of wealthy foreign investors - including those at Wrexham - have since entered the English game, many see them as following the playbook of Abramovich, one of football's most influential figures of the past 30 years, wherever you stand on his impact.

Players, infrastructure and their own John Terry

In simple terms, a major financial investment has brought success on the pitch.

Wrexham have strengthened their first team with significant signings. Striker Paul Mullin (currently on loan at Bradford City), score 38 goals as he helped end the club's 15‑year stay in the National League as champions in 2023.

Beating rivals to experienced players such as Steven Fletcher and James McClean has been owed in part to the substantial wages on offer. This season, Wrexham shattered their transfer record to sign Nathan Broadhead from Ipswich Town in a deal worth up to £10m.

Yet, just as Chelsea had John Terry, at the heart of the project is academy‑produced defender Max Cleworth.

Wrexham chief executive Michael Williamson told BBC Sport at the FT Business of Football Summit: "You saw in this last transfer window, going from League One to the Championship, we brought in 13 new players, right? Which is a massive change.

"People say, 'Oh, you had a transfer market where your net spend was £30m'. Well, that's because we had no players we could sell. Norwich probably spent just as much, if not more, but they also sold a lot of players - same with Ipswich.

"Max Cleworth was playing with us in the National League and now has the most minutes for our club in the Championship. So it's about building the foundation and then adding the supplements."

Not everyone likes missing out on transfers - Bayern Munich's former chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge called on the European Union to regulate the spending, while then Shrewsbury Town manager Gareth Ainsworth said it was "not fair" to be competing with Wrexham because of "all the money they had".

As the Abramovich playbook showed, spending must come at all levels - and happen quickly. Chelsea moved from a second‑rate training ground at Harlington, shared with Imperial College, to a state‑of‑the‑art facility, invested heavily in their academy and women's team, and made two attempts to redevelop Stamford Bridge under their former owner.

Wrexham, meanwhile, operate a Category Three academy but aim to reach Category One.

Their women's team is also receiving increased investment, moving to semi‑professional status and competing for the Welsh league title after beating rivals Cardiff City in the Welsh League Cup. They also bought them a stadium.

Chelsea's visit also exposes the strains of Wrexham's rapid growth, with about 250 media representatives expected - far above the usual 80 at Championship matches.

"If we arrive in the Premier League, there are things we'll have to do to other stands in relation to broadcast, building out TV gantries and providing media spaces," Williamson added. "That would be the next kind of infrastructure investment."

Only three stands will remain open at the 10,600‑seat Stok Cae Ras until the new Kop stand opens next April, taking capacity to more than 18,000.

"The Kop stand will have new amenities, fan engagement areas and an iconic design for the town, city and club," Williamson said.

Wrexham's next "North Star", according to Williamson, is hosting matches as part of the UK bid for the 2035 Women's World Cup. That would require expanding capacity further to about 24,000.

Williamson also highlights how even after going from 40 to 150 permanent staff in five years, he still has to help out with jobs like moving boxes of football shirts, which are now being sold in the United States for the first time.

Chelsea were copied, now Wrexham are

The number of international supporters around Wrexham, like Chelsea, highlights how they are bigger than ever, although they started from a much lower base.

Chelsea had financial issues of their own under former owner Ken Bates and a 50‑year top‑flight title drought, while Abramovich was surprised by the level of attention football brought him after buying the club.

By contrast, Wrexham supporters famously clubbed together to raise £100,000 in 2011, saving the club before passing it on to Reynolds and McElhenney, following a period of suspicion after being burned by previous owners. It is why their visible investment and presence in the local community has been welcomed.

Having put up £2m initially, Wrexham are now valued at a reported £350m, attracting further minority investors, including the Allyn family and Apollo Sports Capital.

Two lucrative overseas friendlies against Chelsea underlined how their niche but growing fanbase can match Premier League opposition, having also faced Manchester United and Bournemouth in the United States. On Wednesday they announced they will be back in the US for pre-season for matches against Premier League trio Leeds, Liverpool and Sunderland.

Meanwhile, record-breaking revenues were reported in their last accounts while in League Two, behind only five Championship clubs despite being two divisions lower.

"You can't not be excited about the growth in the brand and profile of Wrexham in the United States - it's impossible to ignore," CBS executive vice‑president of programming, Dan Weinberg, told BBC Sport in the summer. CBS broadcasted all Wrexham's League One matches live in the US, making them the first club in the third tier to achieve that feat.

Weinberg added: "We showed more Wrexham matches - just as we showed more EFL matches - in the United States than ever before. Wrexham is a clear example of a club with outsized appeal in the US market because of everything Rob and Ryan have done to grow their brand."

Since Wrexham's 2021 takeover, rapper Snoop Dogg has bought into Swansea City, former NFL quarterback Tom Brady into Birmingham City and fellow NFL star JJ Watt into Burnley. YouTuber KSI became also became minority stakeholder in non-league London club Dagenham & Redbridge on Tuesday.

For better or worse, Chelsea were pioneers in the 2000s - and the same could be said of Wrexham in the 2020s.

• Latest Chelsea news, analysis and fan views
• Ask about Chelsea - what do you want to know?

SoCon tournament bracket: Full TV schedule, channels, scores for 2026 men's basketball championships originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Asheville is set to become the epicenter of mid-major drama as the 2026 Ingles Southern Conference (SoCon) Men’s Basketball Championship returns to the Harrah’s Cherokee Center.

With top-seeded East Tennessee State eyeing its first tournament crown in six years and a tightly packed field where the top six teams were separated by just a few games, the road to the Big Dance is wide open.

Expect high stakes and a loud building as ten teams battle for a single automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Here is the men's schedule for the 2026 SoCon Tournament:

Southern Conference basketball tournament bracket 2026

Where to watch Southern Conference men's basketball tournament

• TV channel: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU
• Live stream:ESPN App

The first two rounds of the SoCon men's basketball tournament are available to stream on ESPN+, with select games also appearing on Nexstar affiliates and South Carolina ETV. The semifinals will air live nationally on ESPNU (or ESPN2), while the championship game will be broadcast on ESPN.

All games can also be streamed via the ESPN App by logging in with a television provider. 

Southern Conference men's basketball tournament schedule 2026

• Dates: Friday, March 6–Monday, March 9
• Location: Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville, North Carolina

The 2026 SoCon men's basketball tournament begins on Friday, March 6, and concludes with the championship game on Monday, March 9. All games will be played at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville.

Friday, March 6: First Round

Saturday, March 7: Quarterfinals

Sunday, March 8: Semifinals

Monday, March 9: Championship

Southern Conference men's tournament radio coverage 2026

• Radio station: SiriusXM

You can catch the 2026 SoCon men’s basketball tournament live on SiriusXM.

Start your first month of SiriusXM for free and gain access to live coverage of the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, alongside NASCAR and comprehensive college sports. Stay informed with 24/7 news and expert analysis across multiple sport-specific channels—including dedicated coverage of the Southern Conference on SiriusXM College Sports Radio.

Related Links

• Latest college basketball news
• Full men's college basketball schedule 2025-26
• Updated men’s conference standings

Mohamed Ouahbi replaces Walid Regragui

Morocco: Mohamed Ouahbi appointed head coach (Official)

It's now official! Mohamed Ouahbi has been officially named as Morocco's head coach, succeeding Walid Regragui.

Following the announcement of Walid Regragui's departure as head coach, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has revealed his successor. Mohamed Ouahbi takes the reins, with João Sacramento joining his technical staff.

"I am aware of the expectations, deeply honored, and I commit to working with determination, humility, and patriotism," reacted the new head coach of the Atlas Lions.

Elverberg will hope to momentarily climb to the top three with a home win against out-of-form Magdeburg on Friday. The overachievers drew with Holstein Kiel in Tim Walter's debut last time out after winning the previous two games. Meanwhile, Magdeburg lost five of their last six games.

Petrik Sander, who got the job on a permanent basis after improving the side's fortunes, is now facing a huge task in reviving Magdeburg's hopes of survival. Although they're only two points off safety, there is no secret that their recent form is the worst out of all the teams fighting for safety.

In contrast, Elversberg are now back in business in their search for a first-ever promotion to Bundesliga. Vincent Wagner's side are yet to keep a clean sheet in 2026, but they now managed to go three games without defeat for the first time since the league resumes.

Magdeburg stunned Elversberg with a comeback 5-2 victory the last time they visited Waldstadion an der Kaiserlinde, but the promotion hopefuls already avenged that scoreline in their first head-to-head meeting this term. Bambase Conte scored and assisted twice in a 4-0 victory for Elversberg on matchday eight.

Team News

However, Conte will not be available on Friday due to an injury. In addition, Elversberg's Amara Condé and Magdeburg's duo Tobias Müller and Falko Michel are all suspended after their respective fifth yellow cards of the season on matchday 24.

Predicted Lineups

Elversberg: Kristof; Gyamerah, Pinckert ©, Rohr, Mickelson; Schmahl, Poreba; Petkov, Pherai, Zimmerschied; Mokwa

Magdeburg: Reimann ©; Musonda, Hugonet, Mathisen, Nollenberger; Ulrich; Hercher, Stalmach; Ghrieb, Atik; Zukowski

Andy Robertson has admitted Liverpool’s performance level simply was not good enough during the 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this week, with the defender now calling for a strong response in tonight’s FA Cup meeting between the sides.

DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL EMPIRE OF THE KOP APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY

The Reds dominated possession for long spells at Molineux but still ended up leaving with nothing after Andre’s deflected stoppage-time strike sealed a dramatic win for the hosts.

Several moments in the build-up to that late goal have already been analysed in detail.

Stephen Warnock pointed to a crucial moment when Liverpool attempted to play out from the back, saying: “It was a mistake from Curtis Jones – he plays a ball into Alisson and Alisson’s never going to get any purchase on it.”

Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman also highlighted Virgil van Dijk’s reaction during the incident, explaining the Dutch captain appeared frustrated with Rio Ngumoha’s pressure on Andre before the shot.

Those moments ultimately cost us the match, but Robertson believes the issues ran deeper than just one phase of play.

Robertson admits Liverpool were below standard

Speaking to BBC Sport, the Scotland international acknowledged the overall performance simply lacked the intensity required to win Premier League matches.

Robertson said: “The performance levels wasn’t good enough on Tuesday, there’s no coming away from that, you don’t win many games of football playing the way we did.”

The Liverpool left-back felt the team only raised the tempo too late in the game.

The 31-year-old defender added: “I think we probably put intensity into the game a bit too late.”

Robertson also explained that the match became chaotic late on as both teams pushed forward in search of a winner.

He said: “I thought first half kind of lacked intensity and things like that, then the game, in the last 10 minutes just turned into a basketball match.”

Liverpool targeting immediate response

Despite the disappointment, Robertson was keen to highlight that Wolves are far stronger than their league position might suggest.

The experienced Scotland international pointed out that Rob Edwards’ side have taken points from several top teams recently.

He said: “Especially under this new manager, we know Wolves are competitive. It’s not Wolves that are 20th in the league.”

Liverpool now have the opportunity to respond almost immediately with tonight’s FA Cup tie at the same ground.

Our No.26 believes the focus since Tuesday has been entirely on producing a far better display in the rematch.

Concluding: “We know we need to play a lot better than we did the other night to get anything out of the game… and hopefully we can go and show that on Friday night.”

Following a stunning Der Klassiker victory, Bayern Munich will aim to pull further clear at the top of the Bundesliga table when they welcome Borussia Mönchengladbach at the Allianz Arena on Friday. 

Bayern enter their final 10-game run of the season and require only 20 points to claim the league title. Striker Harry Kane led the Bavarians to a stellar derby win over Borussia Dortmund in their previous outing, as a clinical Joshua Kimmich strike followed the Englishman’s brace finish to drown the Signal Iduna Park crowd despite their team scoring twice. 

Vincent Kompany confirmed the absence of star man Kane for the match as he sustained a calf injury. The injury problem for Alphonso Davies is set to provide a start to Konrad Laimer as the left full-back. Manuel Neuer is deemed to be fit ahead of the match and could start in goal. 

As for Mönchengladbach, they come into this match on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Union Berlin, courtesy of an added-time spotkick by Kevin Diks. Die Fohlen’s current tally stands at 25 points, putting them clear by three from the 16th-placed relegation playoff spot, but things could change quickly as they have clashes against Köln, St. Pauli and Heidenheim coming up following the trip to Bavaria. 

Midfielder Yannik Engelhardt will be unavailable for manager Eugen Polanski after his yellow card against Die Eisernen. Franck Honorat, Haris Tabaković and Wael Mohya are set to feature in the starting eleven. Tim Kleindienst continues his recovery from a knee injury. 

Predicted Line-ups for the match between Bayern Munich and Borussia Mönchengladbach

Bayern Munich: Neuer – Stanišić, Upamecano, Tah, Laimer – Kimmich, Pavlović – Olise, Musiala, Luis Díaz – Gnabry. 

Borussia Mönchengladbach: Nicolas – Diks, Elvedi, Chiarodia – Sander – Scally, Castrop – Reitz, Mohya – Honorat, Tabaković.

GGFN | Trambak Bhattacherjee  

Red Sox Continue Alarming Slide In MLB Farm System Rankings originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Little more than a year ago, the Boston Red Sox had what was considered one of the best farm systems in baseball.

Now, after graduating several top prospects to the Major Leagues and trading away others to strengthen their MLB roster, they rank closer to average.

MLB Pipeline unveiled its 2026 preseason farm system rankings on Thursday, and the Red Sox ranked 14th. That's back to where they were two preseasons ago, down from 11th in the 2025 midseason rankings and third in the 2025 preseason rankings.

That's not necessarily a bad thing, as former top prospects like Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell are in the big leagues now. Others, like Payton Tolle and Connelly Early, debuted last season and will likely join them soon.

Take a deeper dive into our freshly updated farm system rankings: https://t.co/GdhUj1Wm4Ypic.twitter.com/PuTHAJchVh

— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) March 6, 2026

Boston's also been aggressive in trading prospects for proven talent, doing so for Garrett Crochet, Dustin May, Steven Matz, Johan Oviedo, Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras.

The Red Sox farm system is thinner now as a result, but it still has plenty of pitching depth thanks to the pipeline Craig Breslow has built.

"The Red Sox experienced the second-biggest drop (11 spots) in our rankings from 12 months ago, the result of graduating three elite prospects (Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer) and dealing off several other farmhands," MLB Pipeline writes.

"But they still have a decent system and more pitching prospect depth than they've enjoyed in years, with Tolle and Early taking big leaps forward in 2025 and finishing the season on the big league playoff roster. Boston also features more international signees (15) on its Top 30 than any other system, highlighted by shortstops Franklin Arias and Dorian Soto, right-hander Juan Valera and outfielder Justin Gonzales."

In other words, Boston's farm system is still in pretty good shape. Brelow still has trade chips there if needed, plus ample pitching reinforcements coming down the pike.

The Red Sox need to replenish their hitting prospects, but there should be plenty of time for that if Anthony, Mayer, Campbell and others pan out as hoped.

More MLB: Payton Tolle Reached Out To These Celebrities For Red Sox Appearance

Atalanta rejected a loan and demanded a €50 million transfer fee.

Bayern made a move for Ademola Lookman

Bayern Munich did in fact explore the possibility of signing Ademola Lookman last summer. According to several sources, the German club had reached an agreement with the forward regarding a potential transfer.

But the deal fell through. Atalanta BC refused any loan offer and demanded around €50 million for a permanent transfer. No club was willing to meet that price. Bayern ultimately opted for another solution, bringing in Nicolas Jackson on loan. The striker failed to truly impress and is expected to return to Chelsea FC at the end of the season, with his future at the club still uncertain.

As for Lookman, he left Atalanta to join Atlético Madrid during the latest transfer window for around €35 million. His move further highlights the interest the player has generated on the market.

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGIONALS

THURSDAY’S RESULTS 

SEMIFINALS 

BOYS 

DIVISION I

#1 Mater Dei 2, #4 El Camino Real 1

#3 Del Norte 0, #2 Orange Lutheran 0 (Del Norte wins 4-1 in shootout)

DIVISION II

#4 San Pascual 1, #8 Sultana 0

#2 Mira Monte 2, #3 Fontana 1

DIVISION III

#1 Bishop Amat 3, #4 Palisades 1

#6 Los Alamitos 2, #7 Mt. Carmel 0

DIVISION IV 

#1 Irvine University d. #5 Chatsworth, forfeit

#2 Granite Hills 2, #6 Santa Ana Valley 1

DIVISION V

#5 Kern County Taft 2, #1 Ontario Christian 1

#3 Garfield 3, #7 San Diego Lincoln 0

GIRLS 

DIVISION I

#1 Santa Margarita 3, #4 Cleveland 0

#2 Mater Dei 2, #6 Oaks Christian 0

DIVISION II

#8 Westview 2, #5 Sherman Oaks Notre Dame 0

#2 Westlake 1, #3 Garces Memorial 0

DIVISION III

#4 Quartz Hill 1, #1 Del Norte 0

#2 Millikan 0, #3 Ayala 0 (Millikan wins 4-1 in shootout)

DIVISION IV

#5 Coachella Valley 4, #8 Segerstrom 1

#3 San Jacinto 3, #7 Del Sol 2

DIVISION V

#8 Coastal Academy 3, #5 Bravo 0

#3 Delano Kennedy 1, #2 Santa Monica Pacifica Christian 0

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE 

(Games at 5 p.m. unless noted) 

FINALS 

BOYS 

DIVISION I

#3 Del Norte vs. #1 Mater Dei at Fred Kelly Stadium

DIVISION II

#2 Mira Monte at #1 San Pascual

DIVISION III

#6 Los Alamitos at #1 Bishop Amat

DIVISION IV

#2 Granite Hills at #1 Irvine University

DIVISION V

#5 Kern County Taft at #3 Garfield, 5 p.m.

GIRLS 

DIVISION I

#2 Mater Dei vs. #1 Santa Margarita at Tesoro

DIVISION II

#8 Westview at #2 Westlake

DIVISION III

#4 Quartz Hill at #2 Millikan

DIVISION IV

#5 Coachella Valley at #3 San Jacinto

DIVISION V

#8 Coastal Academy at #3 Delano Kennedy

Note: State Championships March 13-14 at Matomas High in Sacramento (times TBA).  

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.

From the ghosts of Balaídos to the courts of Valencia. Today, our five news stories of the day are packed, and the icing on the cake is provided by Tottenham, that club that has turned 'almost' into an art form. Let's get started!

🔙 Do you remember the last time Madrid lost in Vigo?

Arbeloa's team visits Balaídos today, pressured by urgency after losing to Getafe, but knowing they haven't lost there since the 2013-14 season (10 wins, 2 draws, one loss).

Two goals by Charles to topple Madrid are part of Celta's history.

📸 Juan Manuel Serrano Arce - 2014 Getty Images

A look at the line-ups, in Ancelotti's first season and with Luis Enrique at Celta, shoots our nostalgia to the sky.

Celta: Sergio Álvarez; Aurtenetxe, Fontàs, Cabral, Otto; Augusto Fernández, Khron-Dehli, Rafinha, Nolito, Orellana, and Charles.

Real Madrid: Diego López; Marcelo, Nacho, Ramos, Arbeloa; Xabi Alonso, Casemiro, Khedira, Isco, Modric, and Morata.

🗳️ Laporta activates seller mode

The elections in Barcelona have begun, and the former president is in his element with a very clear communication line: he asks for the vote from Barcelona fans for his management in recent years.

Will it be enough to become president again?

⚖️ Ten and a half years in prison requested for Rafa Mir

The newspaper 'Las Provincias' reported yesterday the sentence requested by the public prosecutor for the Elche forward, accused of alleged rape.

😞 Tottenham, endless disappointments

Seeing the despair of Tottenham fans in the face of yet another failure of their team is becoming its own subgenre within the Premier League...

📺 The best matches on Friday

• 20:30 - Bayern-Gladbach
• 20:45 - PSG-Monaco
• 20:45 - Napoli-Torino
• 21:00 - Celta-Real Madrid
• 21:00 - Wolves-Liverpool (FA Cup)

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Liverpool are not concretely interested in signing Konrad Laimer this summer.

Links have arisen in connection with the reigning Premier League champions following reports of the Bavarians hitting pause on the German’s contract talks.

That situation remains static, with the auxiliary right back understood to be far from happy with the original contract offer on the table.

Liverpool don’t want to sign Konrad Laimer

It’s true that Liverpool did hold some interest in the 28-year-old back during his RB Leipzig days.

However, any notion of the Reds being prepared to reignite their interest ahead of the upcoming summer window is understood to be wide of the mark.

As Christian Falk exclusively informed CF Bayern Insider: “It is NOT TRUE: Liverpool are concretely interested in Konrad Laimer. 

“Many clubs see that he’s been very strong as a backup right-back and has actually been one of the best right-backs in Europe at the moment. He’s a midfielder by trade, of course.

“Everyone can see there have been problems in contract negotiations with Bayern. I heard there has only been one meeting in this regard, which took place at the end of the last season. Bayern Munich made an offer, and it was better than the contract he has now. Though not quite as good as Laimer was hoping!”

And why should Bayern be in any rush to allow Laimer to leave? The midfielder has been one of Vincent Kompany’s most reliable performers in a 2025/26 campaign that promises to be a memorable one for Die Roten’s fans.

His average rating of 7.29/10 in the Bundesliga puts him firmly within the top nine players at FC Bayern, ahead of Dayot Upamecano (7.27/10) and Aleksandar Pavlović (7.24/10), according to Fotmob.

There could be hope yet for clubs interested in the Bayern star

That’s not to suggest that there’s an absolute guarantee Konrad Laimer will remain a Bayern Munich player after the summer window closes.

With his current contract set to expire in 2027, the Allianz Arena-dwelling outfit can hardly afford to let this one play out.

The head of football at BILD added: “The German thought, considering he’s been playing so frequently and at a high standard, he would get in the range, not of the top earners like Harry Kane, but perhaps the second tier earning around the €15m (£13m) a year mark.

“But the offer from Bayern was far from this, so he was a little disappointed.

“I heard his agent, Andreas Sadlo, from ROOF – there are many agents – and Andreas Ottl (a former Bayern player) were at the meeting. They said, ‘We don’t have to talk about the salary now because this offer is not what we were expecting.’

“So, they’re just going to let time pass and wait, not too dissimilarly to Dayot Upamecano’s situation.”

But it’s a somewhat complicated situation for Max Eberl and Co. to navigate. Even more so because new deals are also a priority for Harry Kane and Michael Olise (the latter of whom is also of interest to the Premier League).

However, losing Laimer, whilst the comparatively less important player in that trio, would represent a notable blow for a side that has been lacking a reliable natural right-back this term.

The aftermath of the clash between Real Madrid and Getafe continues to spark debate, particularly over a controversial moment involving Antonio Rudiger and Getafe defender Diego Rico.

The incident occurred during the first half of the match and quickly caught the attention of players and supporters alike. 

With Rico already on the ground, Rudiger’s knee appeared to make contact with the defender’s face during the play. 

Despite the physical nature of the moment, referee Alejandro Muniz Ruiz allowed the match to continue without showing a card, and the VAR team did not intervene to review the situation.

Within Getafe, the decision was met with confusion. Several players felt the challenge deserved at least a closer look, especially given the potential danger involved.

Questions from the goalscorer

Speaking to the media days after the match, Getafe striker Martin Satriano shared his perspective on the moment. 

The forward, who scored the match-winning goal, was positioned close to the play and believes the contact was clear from where he was standing.

A moment concerning Antonio Rudiger went unpunished. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“I was very close to the play. Live, I clearly saw that he hit him in the face with his knee and, honestly, I didn’t understand the referee’s decision. 

“I think it’s a mistake that shouldn’t happen, because in this case, Diego Rico’s health was put at risk. 

“I hope they pay more attention in future plays, because it’s something that could also happen to one of them and you have to be much more careful,” he assessed.

He believes moments like these should encourage officials to be more attentive when situations arise that could endanger a player.

In modern football, where VAR technology is available to review potential fouls and dangerous actions, players often expect incidents involving head contact or risky challenges to receive extra scrutiny. 

From the Getafe perspective, the lack of intervention left many within the team feeling frustrated, which is quite justified.

Source: Mundo Deportivo

Ronald Araujo reached a major personal milestone this week after making his 200th appearance for Barcelona during the team’s 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg.

The moment marked another important chapter in the defender’s journey at the club. 

Having joined Barcelona as a relatively unknown 19-year-old prospect, Araujo has grown into one of the most important figures in the squad and is now part of the club’s captaincy group.

Speaking in an interview with SPORT, the 26-year-old opened up about his emotions after reaching the landmark number of appearances.

“For me, reaching 200 games with Barça is a dream come true,” he began saying.

Looking back at the early days of his career at the club, Araujo admitted that achieving such a milestone was never something he expected so soon after arriving in Spain.

“The truth is that reaching 200 games was something I saw as a long way off. When I arrived at the age of 19, I only dreamed of playing for the first team.”

Memorable moments

Over the course of those appearances, the defender has experienced many memorable nights wearing the Barcelona shirt. 

When asked to choose one standout moment from the 200 matches he has played, Araujo pointed to a special night against Real Madrid.

“I could name many games that have given us titles and will remain in my memory, come to mind… but I’ll go with the 4-0 Clasico in which I scored a goal, in 2022.”

Reflecting on his overall time at the club, the Uruguayan highlighted the trophies he has won with Barcelona as the moments he values the most.

“I would choose the titles we won. Lifting a trophy in this shirt is always very special because you know how much it means to the club and the fans,” he noted.

A source of pride

Araujo is proud to have made 20th appearance for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

As one of the captains in the current squad, Araujo also spoke about what it means to lead the team and represent the club on the pitch.

“It’s a huge source of pride. Barça has a great history with many captains who are legends. 

“For me, it means responsibility, representing the club’s values, and helping my teammates on and off the field.”

The defender also admitted that reaching the 200-game mark feels even more meaningful after the challenges he has faced with mental stress in recent months.

“Yes, because when you go through difficult times, you appreciate everything much more. 

“I worked hard to get back to full fitness and be able to help the team, so reaching 200 games has a special meaning.”

Aiming for more

After dealing with injuries and difficult moments earlier in the season, Araujo expressed gratitude for the support he has received along the way.

“I’m very grateful. To God, my family, the club, and the fans. 

“It’s been a difficult few months, with a lot of hard work, and when you see that all that effort is worth it, it gives you a lot of motivation to keep going.”

Despite already reaching an impressive milestone, the Barcelona defender insists his ambitions at the club remain clear.

“My dream is to keep winning titles with Barça. 

“If I reach 300 or 400 games, it will be because I’m doing my job well and helping the team, so hopefully I can keep adding to that number for many years to come,” he concluded.

Maximilian Mittelstädt is one of the key players for VfB this season. Sebastian Hoeneß rarely leaves him out. It goes without saying that the defender is also attracting interest from other clubs. 

Reportedly, Napoli has set their sights on the German national player. The usually well-informed transfer reporter Matteo Moretto has reported on the interest. There have even been initial contacts between the club and the player, but nothing more so far. 

Mittelstädt's contract with the Swabians runs until 2028. According to media reports, he does not have a release clause, so VfB could demand a high transfer fee and thus seems to have the upper hand for now. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

LeBron James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most field goals scored in NBA history as the Los Angeles Lakers lost at the Denver Nuggets on Thursday.

James scored 16 points for the Lakers in the 120-113 defeat and passed Abdul-Jabbar's tally of 15,837 during the first quarter.

The 41-year-old, who is playing in an unprecedented 23rd NBA season, passed Abdul-Jabbar to become the top scorer in NBA history in February 2023.

Last year he became the first player to reach 50,000 points combined in the regular season and post-season, and currently has 43,127 in the regular season alone.

"Being mentioned with some of the greatest to ever play this game has always been humbling," said James, the league's four-time Most Valuable Player.

"I grew up watching, reading [about], idolising a lot of the greats, and if I was able to be part of the NBA, I wanted to put myself in position that I can be named with some of the greats by doing something right.

"It's a pretty cool feat, but it's hard for me to kind of wrap my head around it or what it looks like."

Lakers coach JJ Redick likened the evolution of James' career to that of Bruce Springsteen, saying: "You get to the end and you're like, 'this guy's greatest hits are like insane'.

"And LeBron's greatest hits, he just keeps adding to them. He just plays and plays and plays and the greatest hits, he's got a hell of a catalogue."

James passed Abdul-Jabbar's points record before field goals as three-point shots were introduced midway through the NBA legend's career.

The six-time champion spent most of his 20-year career with the Lakers and retired in 1989 having scored 55.9% of his 28,307 shots. James has a 51.6% scoring rate.

The four-time champion is set to claim another record as Thursday's game was his 1,606th in the regular season, putting him five behind Robert Parish.

James earned his 22nd All-Star selection this year and says he has not decided whether he will continue playing next season.

Fellow All Stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each scored 28 points for Denver, who stayed fifth in the Western Conference standings, one spot above the Lakers.

Second-placed San Antonio claimed their 13th victory from 14 games, with Victor Wembanyama returning to top form with 38 points and 16 rebounds as the Spurs won 121-106 at home against the Detroit Pistons, who lead the Eastern Conference.

• Heated Doncic interaction 'very normal' - Redick

Mercedes’ pace in free practice for the Australian Grand Prix shows the Silver Arrows aren't concealing their true performance like they used to, according to Charles Leclerc.

McLaren was fastest on Friday in Melbourne with Oscar Piastri lapping in 1m19.729s; Mercedes was two tenths away with Kimi Antonelli setting a 1m19.943s, but the W17’s long-run pace particularly impressed Leclerc, who ended up more than half a second off Piastri’s pace after a couple of off-track excursions.

F1 Australian GP: Oscar Piastri leads FP2 as Aston Martin's woes continue

“I think Mercedes is slowly showing a bit more of what they have, and FP2 we are starting to see where we are lacking compared to them,” the Monegasque said. “They are clearly very strong, especially in terms of race pace. I don't know how much margin they still have on qualifying pace but in the race pace they seem to be very strong compared to us.”

“Race pace, they were very, very impressive,” he added. “In terms of qualifying pace, again, it's difficult to know how much more there is to come. Oscar did a very impressive lap, but I don't know also what they are doing between the cars because maybe they might be testing different things between the cars, because Lando was quite far back.

“Again it's the first race of a completely new car, so lots of question marks – but on the long run I will say you have a bit of a better picture of what's going on in the performances of everybody so far. I hope I'm wrong and that we are much faster tomorrow, but at the moment it seems to be Mercedes a step ahead and then Red Bull, McLaren and ourselves after.”

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

Leclerc’s team-mate Lewis Hamilton was closer to the front, lapping two tenths faster in 1m20.050s, and the 28-year-old has admitted to having work to do after a set-up experiment failed to pay off.

“I don't really focus on [Mercedes], we've got plenty of things to improve on our car,” Leclerc pointed out. “In FP2 I tried something quite aggressive which didn't work out, so I'll be back tomorrow into a more reasonable window and we'll see how it looks like.

“There's still some work to do. As I've always said, Melbourne and Shanghai are probably the two hardest tracks for me of the season, and I always struggle quite a bit, so it's a challenge. But it shouldn't be an excuse, and actually I enjoy that challenge, and I will work hard in order to turn that situation around tomorrow.”

Leclerc did win the 2022 Australian GP from pole position, but he was outqualified by team-mate Carlos Sainz the next two years, with the Spaniard leading a Ferrari 1-2 in 2024.

Last year, Leclerc outperformed Hamilton on his way to a lowly eighth-place finish in the race.

Photos from Australian GP - Friday

Oscar Piastri, McLaren

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Lando Norris, McLaren

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Lando Norris, McLaren

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Oscar Piastri, McLaren, Lily Zneimer

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Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls

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Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

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Alexandra Leclerc

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Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1

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Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing

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Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Lawrence Stroll, Aston Martin

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Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

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Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

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Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1

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Esteban Ocon, Haas F1, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1

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Pierre Gasly, Alpine

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Pierre Gasly, Alpine

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Edie Piastri

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Isack Hadjar, Red Bull Racing

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Bill Ford, great-grandson of Ford founder Henry Ford

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Mercedes mechanics at work

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Lando Norris, McLaren

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Carlos Sainz, Williams

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Oscar Piastri, McLaren

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Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Oscar Piastri, McLaren

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George Russell, Mercedes, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

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Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

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Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

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Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

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Alexander Albon, Williams

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes, Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls

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Lando Norris, McLaren

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Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari, Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Esteban Ocon, Haas F1 Team

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Esteban Ocon, Haas F1 Team

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Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Carlos Sainz, Williams

Peter Fox / Getty Images

Alexander Albon, Williams

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Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls

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Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

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Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

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Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

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Sergio Perez, Cadillac Racing

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Car of Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

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Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

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Sergio Perez, Cadillac F1 Team

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Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

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George Russell, Mercedes

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George Russell, Mercedes

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Lando Norris, McLaren

Steven Tee / LAT Images via Getty Images

Alexander Albon, Williams

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Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Mark Thompson / Getty Images

Lando Norris, McLaren

Anni Graf - Formula 1 via Getty Images

Carlos Sainz, Williams

Quinn Rooney / Getty Images

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

Martin Keep / AFP via Getty Images

Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing

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Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls

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Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi F1 Team

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes

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Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

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Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

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Nico Hulkenberg, Audi F1 Team

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Lando Norris, McLaren

Mark Thompson / Getty Images

Lance Stroll, Aston Martin Racing

Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

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McLaren's Oscar Piastri powered to the fastest time ahead of Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli in second practice for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Friday as drivers grappled with sweeping new engine changes. 

The Australian sent 125,000 fans at his home track into a frenzy by blasting round Albert Park in one minute 19.729secs, 0.214 clear of Antonelli.

Antonelli's teammate, pre-season favourite George Russell, came third, a fraction clear of Ferrari's seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

"A lot of learnings but overall a reasonably good day," said Piastri, who won seven times last year but could only finish the championship in third.

"FP2 ran smoothly and we were able to find a bit more consistency and the car behaved more as we expected, which was good."

After a dismal debut season with Ferrari last year, an upbeat Hamilton was encouraged by what had been achieved so far by the Scuderia.

"It was challenging at times on track, but we maximised our laps and executed to the best of our ability, getting some good information," he said. 

"Lots of work to do but I'm looking forward to getting back in the car tomorrow."

Charles Leclerc, in the other Ferrari, was fifth with four-time world champion Max Verstappen sixth after spending half the session in the garage having stalled his Red Bull.

McLaren world champion Lando Norris clawed his way to seventh, more than one second off the pace, after managing only seven laps in first practice due to gearbox issues.

"We've got some good bits of data to go over from the second half of FP2 and there's plenty we can learn from what our competitors have been doing," said Norris, while admitting to "a tricky first day".

Racing Bulls' impressive rookie Arvid Lindblad banked an eye-opening eighth, a place ahead of Isack Hadjar -- the man he replaced and who is now Verstappen's teammate.

- F1 begins new era -

It was the first proper test of far-reaching new engine and chassis rules with the hybrid power units now 50 percent traditional combustion and 50 percent electric.

With a finite amount of energy available, drivers had to carefully manage their batteries on each lap, working out when to deploy while building it up back through braking.

The challenge of Albert Park is its long sweeping straights, which deplete batteries, and relatively few twisty turns to brake and charge it up again.

There have also been changes to the aerodynamics of the cars, which are lighter and smaller.

On a perfect Melbourne afternoon, Nico Hulkenberg led them out, but it was Hamilton who set the opening time.

Verstappen had an inauspicious start, stalling in the pit lane, while Russell clipped Lindblad on his way out and needed a new nose.

Verstappen's car was wheeled back into the garage, apparently stuck in gear, where he stayed for almost half an hour.

The drivers started on a mix of medium and hard tyres and Russell soon upstaged Hamilton as they jockeyed for places.

At the halfway mark it was Italy's Antonelli, Russell, Hamilton and Piastri.

Russell locked up and hit the gravel at Turn 3 as he pushed hard, as did Hamilton, but they both kept enough momentum to get back on track.

Piastri blasted to the top of the timesheets on soft tyres with 25 minutes left as Verstappen began climbing the leaderboard.

But the Dutchman was trying too hard and careered into the gravel at Turn 10 with debris flying off his car, ending his day early.

Fernando Alonso clocked 18 laps and Lance Stroll 13 as the troubled Aston Martins battle extreme vibration caused by the new Honda power unit.

Newcomers Cadillac -- the 11th team on the grid -- also struggled with Valtteri Bottas 19th and Sergio Perez last.

In first practice, Leclerc outpaced Hamilton with Verstappen and Hadjar third and fourth.

mp/pst

Chelsea will once again insist Andrey Santos isn’t for sale this summer amid an active interest from Manchester United according to Ben Jacobs.

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Santos joined Chelsea back in January 2023 from Brazilian club Vasco da Gama, in a deal reportedly worth just £13.5m.

The Brazilian had an unsuccessful loan spell at Nottingham Forest, before spending 18 months at sister club Strasbourg.

Chelsea will insist Andrey Santos isn’t for sale

Santos thrived in Ligue 1 last season under Liam Rosenior, and scored ten goals as Strasbourg qualified for the Conference League.

The 21-year-old made his long awaited debut at the Club World Cup, but had to be patient for opportunities under Enzo Maresca.

However, as soon as Rosenior arrived he’s pretty much been a mainstay in the team, forming a midfield pivot with Moises Caicedo.

Chelsea turned down interest in Santos from Saudi side Al-Qadsiah last summer, whilst a number of other clubs were interested.

Santos will likely attract interest once again in the summer, and Jacobs has reported United still have an interest dating back to talks for Garnacho.

“The only other name that I’ve heard and I’ll kind of repeat it from the Garnacho talks, is Andrey Santos,” he told The United Stand.

“And right now, I think less likely than it was when Man United and Chelsea were negotiating over Alejandro Garnacho because at that point, Santos was not really getting game time. And now he’s playing under a manager who knows him really well from Strasbourg.

“And as a consequence, Chelsea’s not for sale stance, which was said at the time when they were talking over Alejandro Garnacho, is probably one that you would expect them to double down on heading into the summer.”

Chelsea exit possible under certain circumstances?

Although a Santos exit is highly unlikely, Jacobs did provide a situation where a departure could possibly occur.

“But if Chelsea brings in another midfielder, you’ve got Enzo Fernandez, who’s been pushed forwards. If Romeo Lavia gets fit, Reece James is being played in midfield and Moises Caicedo is basically undroppable,” he added.

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“So Chelsea do have a lot of midfielders and Manchester United’s interest in Andrey Santos also remains.

“It’s just not currently a market opportunity and because of all these long-term contracts that Chelsea hand out as it stands at the moment in any negotiation, they’ve got all of the cards.”

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

The Polish striker will decide his future in the coming months.

Barcelona FC: Why hasn't Lewandowski extended his contract yet?

The future of Robert Lewandowski remains undecided. The FC Barcelona striker revealed that he will make his decision in a few months, most likely at the end of the season.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Robert Lewandowski made it clear that he doesn't feel under any pressure to resolve his future just yet:

I don't feel any pressure. When you're 30 or younger, it's a different feeling and every day you're wondering where you'll play next. But right now, I don't need to know. I'm patient and I know how to wait for the right moment.

At 37, Lewandowski prefers to bide his time and carefully assess the situation—especially at Barcelona—before making any final decision. Meanwhile, the Polish international continues to deliver on the pitch, with 14 goals and 3 assists in 32 appearances this season.

When was the last time Tottenham were relegated? Spurs' Premier League status under threat as Igor Tudor struggles originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Tottenham Hotspur fans must have hoped that least season's Premier League performances under Ange Postecoglou were an aberration. It doesn't look that way.

The north London side suffered their 13th defeat in 28 league matches to usher in March, going down 2-1 at Fulham. The result left them just four points outside the relegation places. The club has not won in league play in 10 straight matches, dating back to a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace in late December.

Thomas Frank was sacked on February 11 following a defeat to Newcastle United, with interim boss Igor Tudor installed in his place through at least the end of the season.

It still feels highly unlikely that Spurs really could be dragged into the bottom three and there are plenty of games left to turn things around, but the mere fact that relegation is even being mentioned is hugely embarrassing for a club named the ninth most valuable soccer team by Forbes in 2025.

If the unthinkable should happen, would it be a first for Spurs? The Sporting News looks through the history books.

MORE:Highlights and analysis from Spurs' home defeat to Newcastle

When was the last time Tottenham were relegated?

In the Premier League era, Tottenham have never been relegated from the top flight.

The last time Spurs dropped out of the top division was back in 1977, when they were relegated to the second tier under manager Keith Burkinshaw.

They won promotion back to the top table the next season, and they have been ever-present in the highest league since.

Prior to that, Spurs were relegated in 1935 and spent a few decades in the second tier, finally winning promotion to the elite by winning Division 2 in 1950.

All times Tottenham have been relegated in club history

* There was no league football in England from 1940-1946 due to World War II.
* There was no league football in England from 1916-1919 due to World War I.

What is Tottenham's worst Premier League finish?

Since the beginning of the Premier League era, Spurs' poorest season came under Postecoglou in 2024/25, when they finished in 17th place in the table, with 38 points from 38 games.

They were comfortably clear of the relegation places on points, but their form was nonetheless wretched throughout the campaign. The exception of course was in the Europa League: they won the final 1-0 against Manchester United in Bilbao to end a wait of 17 years for a major trophy.

Prior to that, their lowest-ever finish in a Premier League season was 15th. That was in 1993/94, the second-ever Premier League campaign.

MORE:List of Spurs' trophies won and all-time finals record

Could Tottenham be relegated this season?

It sounds astonishing to suggest a club of Tottenham's resources, who had a team in the Champions League final as recently as 2019 and are competing in this season's Round of 16, could actually drop out of the Premier League.

Yet that is a reality that they could be facing if they do not arrest their poor form quickly.

Spurs have 29 points from their first 26 games of 2025/26, leaving them in 16th place with a four-point cushion to the drop zone. The difference between this season and last is that one of the bottom three have a realistic chance of climbing out of trouble.

Wolves look to be doomed to the drop and Burnley are eight points from safety, but West Ham United are just two points behind Nottingham Forest and four behind Spurs. What's more, the Hammers have only lost one of their most recent five league games and will be confident in their chances of getting out of the bottom three.

Spurs also have a daunting run of fixtures coming up. After three straight losses to Arsenal, Fulham and Crystal Palace, they now face Liverpool following the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie with Atletico Madrid.

Tottenham remaining Premier League fixtures

Tottenham have a relatively elementary run-in to the 2025/26 Premier League season.

They face 'big six' clubs just twice from the start of March through the final two months of the campaign, with visits to Liverpool on March 15 and Chelsea on May 17.

Six of their final 10 matches are to come against clubs in the bottom half of the standings as of March 1, with games against fellow relegation candidates Nottingham Forest, Wolves, and Leeds United the most critical of the matches remaining.

The warm, 80 degree weather in Peoria had the ball jumping off Padres shillelaghs Thursday afternoon against the Seattle Mariners. San Diego hung 17 runs on the board through the contests' first three innings, receiving home runs from eight different position players. Among the notable names to go yard in the 27-6 onslaught victory were center fielder Jackson Merrill, Jake Cronenworth, Freddy Fermin, Miguel Andujar, and KBO newcomer Sung-Mun Song, who made his first start at shortstop this spring. 

On the mound, Walker Buehler successfully completed three frames in his Padres debut. The right-hander struck out four batters while surrendering two earned runs. Perhaps the most encouraging news, however, was what Buehler shared after his first Cactus League start: 

“About four weeks ago, my elbow just stopped hurting, and so that’s a new one for me,” Buehler said. “Things have kind of ticked up from there," he added.

The former Cy Young contender seems to be feeling as good as he's felt in quite awhile. Trying to earn the final spot in San Diego's starting rotation, Buehler took a big step in perhaps doing so on Thursday.

Musgrove back on the bump

Buehler wasn't the only Padres hurler who made strides this week. San Diego native Joe Musgrove returned to game action for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery in October 2024. Facing Great Britain's WBC squad in an exhibition game, the tall right-hander touched 95 mph on his fastball while showing impressive tilt on his breaking pitches. 

He picked up three strikeouts, including one of Yankees infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. In the end, Musgrove cited feeling healthy, which bodes well heading into the latter portion of spring camp. 

Roster trimming commences

The Padres began spring roster cuts on Thursday afternoon that included notable Minor League names such as righty reliever Francis Peña, first baseman Romeo Sanabria, and starting pitcher Miguel Mendez. 

Mendez, who some consider a future piece of San Diego's Major League starting rotation, was reassigned to Double-A San Antonio. The hard-throwing right-hander was recently ranked as the organization's no. 3 prospect. He pitched to a 3.22 ERA last season with 118 strikeouts and a .209 BAA in 21 Minor League starts. 

Per MLB.com's prospect profiles, Mendez's big league ETA is projected for this season. Depending on his numbers and the state of the Padres rotation later this year, expect to see his name in discussions for a call up to The Show.

What happened to Shea Lacey since his sending off against Brighton in the FA Cup has been the subject of questions sent in via our 'Ask about Manchester United' form - and it's a good question.

Lacey scored six goals in three Premier League 2 appearances following that FA Cup tie.

He was also on the bench for the Premier League home game against Fulham on 1 February, but didn't come on, presumably because Marco Silva's side mounted a late fightback.

However, he has not been involved in any game, at any level, since 2 February and hasn't featured in any of the training images the club put out a couple of times a week.

There have been suggestions Lacey has been suffering from a minor calf complaint, although United have not confirmed - or denied - that officially.

Lacey has suffered so much with injury in the past couple of years, United will not want to take any chances. It will be interesting to see if he is named in any England age-group squads for the forthcoming internationals.

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Lakers' LeBron James goes on NSFW rant after Nikola Jokic near-injury in loss to Nuggets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers are in the middle of a tight race in the Western Conference as they try to avoid the Play-In Tournament. The biggest issue for the Lakers has been consistency, especially on the defensive side. Above all, LeBron James wants to compete for a legitimate championship contender.

“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”

The Lakers have looked like a strong team at times, but at other moments they still appear to be searching for answers. On Thursday night, James went down with an injury after taking a hard fall during a game against the Denver Nuggets.

“Another record-setting night for LeBron James ended painfully, as he hurt his elbow in a hard fall during the fourth quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers' game against the Denver Nuggets. James drove and hit a layup with just over 4 minutes to go, but he came down hard and immediately grasped at his elbow,” Jace Evans wrote for USA Today.

After the game, James was asked why the referees did not call a foul on Nikola Jokic during the play that led to his injury. James responded with a NSFW rant.

“It’s the same s—. ‘Marginal.’ It’s the same s—. It’s, it’s, it’s … whatever. That’s all they keep saying is, ‘marginal.’ I’m so f—ing tired of that word,” James told the media.

Some of that frustration could stem from losing a close game with major playoff implications. The Lakers are entering a difficult stretch in their schedule, and they are well aware of what is at stake.

James’ reaction could be an early sign of just how crucial the next five games are for the Lakers. It truly is make-or-break time for Los Angeles, and if they are not careful, the situation could quickly become dangerous.

Lakers star Luka Doncic is one technical away from receiving an automatic one-game suspension after he picked up his 15th technical of the season in a 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.

Doncic, who had 27 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, was charged with a technical with 5:43 left in the second quarter.

“Just because I yelled at him, I guess. That's what he said,” said Doncic about his interaction with referee Ed Malloy. “But I heard three other players say the exact same sentence and didn't get a tech. And that's my problem, you know, I was trying not to talk at all. This is the first thing I said — no warning or nothing."

Read more:LeBron James breaks another Kareem Abdul-Jabbar record, but hurts his elbow in loss

Malloy said after the game that Doncic was issued a technical for "using profanity directed towards a referee."

The NBA automatically suspends any player who receives 16 technical fouls during a season. Doncic has reached the threshold twice in his career, but the NBA rescinded the 16th technical each time, allowing him to avoid suspension.

Doncic wasn't making any guarantees about whether he'll be able to avoid another technical.

“We'll see,” he said. “Can't predict the future.”

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

Nottingham Forest's hard work against Manchester City on Wednesday has put the fans on their side, says former Reds defender Brian Laws.

Forest secured a point in a 2-2 draw at Etihad Stadium and, in a season full of uncertainty over managerial appointments and Premier League survival, Laws thinks the supporters are starting to reconnect with the club.

"What all the Forest fans really want is an honest day's work from the players and consistency," Laws told BBC Radio Nottingham.

"Give your all. You can't kid the supporters - they know when you've put a shift in and when you've worked hard, and they know when you've been up for the game. And the players were up for the game, there was no question about it and the fans showed their appreciation.

"It's something the fans crave and when you don't give it, they'll let you know, and I think that's fair because it hasn't been frequent or consistent enough this year.

"But that connection with the fans is so important at this stage of the season. Particularly with where we are [in the table], we're going to need every one of them.

"As long as the players give that effort and commitment, you'll have the fans with you all the way."

Listen to more from Laws on the Shut Up And Show More Football Podcast on BBC Sounds here

ATLATNA — The Savannah State University men’s basketball team’s bid to defend it’s SIAC Conference championship ended in the quarterfinal round of this year’s tournament after a last-second shot was no good.

With Savannah State trailing 48-47 with 12 seconds remaining, Windsor Forest alum Javonte Landy’s drove to the basket through contact and missed the potential shot.

The Tigers were unable to foul to stop the clock before time expired.

The loss to Miles marks the first time they have beaten Savannah State this season. In the previous two matchups, Savannah State won by 11 points.

Savannah State finishes the season 16-12 overall.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV.

From Stuart McCloskey's takedown of Marcus Smith to the coaching box's delirious celebrations, Ireland's resounding win over England conjured a series of enduring images.

McCloskey, who battered England with his buccaneering carries, was an obvious poster boy for the win. As were Rob Baloucoune, whose work at both ends of the field was lauded by head coach Andy Farrell, and Jamison Gibson-Park, who pulled the strings ingeniously in the record 42-21 win.

Given the intense scrutiny he has faced as one of the two key actors in Ireland's fly-half debate, the headline-hogging endeavours of his team-mates would have suited Jack Crowley just fine.

Reinstated to the Ireland line-up for the England game following Sam Prendergast's indifferent start to the Six Nations, Crowley re-established himself as Ireland's first-choice 10 with a quietly confident display.

His 2024 Six Nations-winning half-back partnership with Gibson-Park restored, Crowley ensured the Irish attack ran smoothly and kicked 17 points to help steer Ireland to a famous Twickenham triumph.

• Timoney starts as Ireland make five changes
• Ireland wary but focused before Wales challenge
• Timoney happy he didn't give up on Ireland dream

'It wasn't about proving a point'

It was an important game for Crowley. Having played second fiddle to Prendergast for much of last year's Six Nations, his Munster form elevated him back to the line-up for Ireland's Chicago reunion with the All Blacks in November.

He kept his place for the following week's win over Japan but Prendergast was entrusted from the start for the last two November games - against Australia and South Africa - and the first two Six Nations fixtures with France and Italy.

And while Crowley made a significant impact off the bench against Italy, his day ended with a missed touch-finder that wrecked his side's hopes of securing a bonus point.

Even with that, Crowley did not feel the England game was about "proving my point".

"Being honest, no [there was no extra pressure]," said the 26-year-old, who is retained at fly-half for Friday's game against Wales in Dublin (20:10 GMT).

"It comes back to process so it's about approaching the game with doing the right thing, simplifying things and seeing the play in front of you and making the right call."

The online debate surrounding Crowley and Prendergast moved Farrell to launch an impassioned plea for "keyboard warriors" to "cop on" following the Italy win.

It has been a constant discussion point ever since a then 21-year-old Prendergast was elevated to the starting line-up during the 2024 autumn internationals. That one plays for Leinster and the other Munster has only fanned the flames.

Having been through his own battle for the shirt with Ronan O'Gara, Johnny Sexton - now an Ireland assistant coach - last year revealed he told Crowley and Prendergast to delete their social media accounts.

But while online commentary had Farrell visibly irritated a few weeks ago, Crowley appeared unperturbed when the topic was raised before the Wales match.

"It is [easy] if you just if you just put it away, don't engage with it," he said.

"It's like anything. You have a choice and you can choose to not engage. You can choose to engage. And it's just like creating good habits day to day, like with your nutrition or diet or training performance, you make a choice and you commit to it."

Social media comments are one thing but Crowley understands that the atmosphere during games can affect players too.

Against England, his opposite number George Ford was ironically cheered for finding touch after missing two earlier efforts.

"I think pre-empting situations where you're going to be under pressure, whether it's in play or whether it's your individual technique," he said when asked how to deal with a hostile environment.

"For us it might be kicking, but for line-out throwers, it might be the pressure that they could be getting in hostile environments. So during the week, just feeling what it might be like to be under a little bit of pressure.

"Breath works for me, a lot of breath works, bring it back to what's in your control and I think having a good technique that needs to be robust no matter what situation it is."

With the shirt in his possession once more, the onus is now on Crowley to continue his solid form heading into a World Cup year.

For him, that means sticking to his process of trying to simplify in-game decisions in the face of the uncertainty and chaos that Test rugby brings.

"I'm not focusing too much on what's going well and what's not going well [in his own game], I'm just focusing on how I can bring my best day to day.

"Come gameday, who knows what could be thrown our way so I'm trying to stay in the present, whatever skillset is required of me then and there, that's what I'll be focusing on."

Wolves boss Rob Edwards might have been thinking his bottom-of-the-table Premier League side have a chance of 'the great escape' after they beat Liverpool on Tuesday.

So, seeing two of the three teams immediately above them, West Ham and Nottingham Forest, pick up points on Wednesday was a shame for Wolves, just when they had given themselves that little bit of hope.

Still, their recent results and performances have been much improved. Edwards has given Wolves fans something to smile about, and he will want to maintain that positivity here.

This is a big game for Liverpool boss Arne Slot, too.

The FA Cup could be important for him this season, so he cannot just focus on Tuesday's last-16 trip to Galatasaray in the Champions League.

After three successive Premier League wins, Tuesday's loss was another stumble for Slot's side in the race for the top four.

They were fortunate Manchester United and Aston Villa lost as well, but Chelsea's win at Villa meant the Reds are outside the top five now too.

With the heat that is around him, I don't think Slot is in a position where he can afford to play a weakened side here - he has to go strong to try to avoid another shock result.

I still think we will see another surprise, though.

Wolves are going to throw everything at Liverpool. They are still going down, but can they make it to Wembley too?

Sutton's prediction: 2-1

Read the full predictions and have your say here

With the Washington Nationals approaching the two week mark in spring training and two roster cuts later, manager Blake Butera is putting the pieces together for his first season with the organization.

Maybe one of the bigger questions that remains unanswered is how the Nationals’ rotation will shake out ahead of Opening Day, along with who will end up being tabbed as the starter when the Nationals take the field to face the Chicago Cubs for the opener on March 26. But in traditional fashion, manager Blake Butera pointed back to his experience in the Rays’ organization to reiterate that the chances things stay the same after Opening Day are slim with a chance to remain “open minded.”

“I don’t know that anything will be traditional, so to speak, from start to finish. I think we're always going to be open minded and look for ways to win on the margins, whether that be an opener, whether it be, mixing a lineup up, whether it be, pinch running in certain situations,” Butera said during his appearance on 106.7 on Wednesday. “We're always going to look for the best opportunity to win a game, win an inning, win a series.”

Find out what Cade Cavalli's been working on to improve his arsenal, so long as his mustache doesn't distract you. 😂 pic.twitter.com/JKDgGxdcLz

— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) March 5, 2026

For now, analyzing the makeup of the 2026 rotation is the biggest question with no “restrictions” on the group.

Josiah Gray made his first appearance in nearly two years when he took the mound on March 2 against the Houston Astros, pitching nearly two innings and allowing two hits in an eventual 2-2 tie. 

“The biggest thing for Jojo is just making sure he's healthy. He got out there and pitched on the mound our last game, and it was just fun to see him out there,” Butera said of Gray. “The stuff was really good. He was having a blast with a big smile on his face and just, I think he may [have] mentioned [he] forgot what that felt like. It'd been a while since he had gotten to pitching a game and pitching a game where he felt healthy.”

Miles Mikolas took the mound on Thursday for his second appearance with the Nationals for what ended up being a shaky performance, allowing three runs including a two-run shot. He also tossed three strikeouts in his three innings as he remains an Opening Day candidate.

Mets Exit Velo’s off Miles Mikolas in the 1st inning today:

Mike Tauchman — 106.8 (2B)
Jorge Polanco — 91.7 (Groundout)
Bo Bichette — 106.1 (1B)
Brett Baty — 99.8 (HR)
Jose Rojas — 92.7 (Groundout)pic.twitter.com/sTCsuQN3tQ

— Hagen Snell (@HagenSnellBB) March 5, 2026

Foster Griffin, meanwhile, made his debut with the team in Wednesday’s exhibition 5-1 win over Venezuela in an encouraging performance. Butera also pointed to Brad Lord, Mitchell Parker and Jake Eder as other strong candidates to fill the rotation, but the development of Cade Cavalli once again drew praise.

“Cade’s looked unbelievable. His body is unbelievable right now. He's putting in a ton of work this offseason. He's healthy. I mean, he just looks like a frontline starter for you and a guy that you want in your rotation, day in and day out.”

Fabricate turns your ideas into deployed web applications. Describe what you want in plain text, and the AI generates a complete full-stack codebase and deploys it to a live URL in minutes. It produces real production code — React, databases, authentication — rather than drag-and-drop templates. You own and can export everything.

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LastJobScout automates the tedious parts of job hunting. It searches dozens of job boards at once, reads every posting, and scores each role against your resume so you can focus on strong applications and interviews. Ghost job detection and source verification flag expired or spammy listings, while Scout Reports provide company research and skill gap analysis. Triage opportunities on mobile with swipe actions, dive deep when ready, and track application status in one place.

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TruDoc Healthcare today announced the successful closure of a $15 million Pre-Series B funding round. The round saw significant participation from the Al Nahyan and Al-Ketbi families, alongside continued support from existing investor Pulsar Capital.

The investment reflects growing confidence in healthcare models that move beyond hospitals as physical destinations, toward systems that deliver continuous, clinical-grade care wherever patients are. TruDoc is using the capital to deepen its position as a single, accountable virtual first healthcare provider, while expanding what is already the largest at-home critical care deployment in the GCC.

TruDoc is fundamentally re-architecting the patient journey, by combining virtual-first primary care, longitudinal chronic disease management, pharmacy-at-home, diagnostics, in-home services, and the region’s largest hospital-at-home critical care program, TruDoc delivers continuous care across the full lifecycle of a patient—not just moments of illness. The result is faster intervention, fewer hospital admissions, better adherence, and a single accountable care partner for patients, payors, and providers alike.

This capital infusion signals a paradigm shift toward healthcare that follows the patient, not the facility. TruDoc is leveraging this investment to solidify its role as the GCC’s primary accountable care partner, scaling the region’s most sophisticated at-home critical care deployment.

By fusing virtual-first primary care with longitudinal disease management and hospital-grade home diagnostics, TruDoc is dismantling the region’s fragmented legacy systems. This ‘Care Operating System’ bypasses physical infrastructure bottlenecks, delivering 24/7 clinical interventions that improve adherence and keep patients out of high-cost hospital beds. From streamlining insurer costs to expanding governmental care capacity, TruDoc is turning healthcare into mission-critical virtual infrastructure that serves the UAE and Saudi Arabia at population scale.

Dr. Ahmed Mansour, CEO, Private Department of H.E. SH. Mohamed Bin Khaled Al Nahyan, said: “Healthcare systems everywhere are being asked to do more—serve more people, manage more chronic disease, and deliver better outcomes—without endlessly expanding physical infrastructure. TruDoc represents a fundamentally different approach: one that scales access and efficiency while maintaining clinical integrity. This model is well aligned with the UAE’s long-term priorities and the future of healthcare delivery across the Middle East. Believing in TruDoc model to lead this market innovation and increase the ultimate efficiency of the healthcare industry.”

Vish Narain, Executive Chairman at TruDoc, said: “For centuries, healthcare has been organised around buildings—patients moving toward facilities, systems optimised for episodic care. That architecture no longer reflects how people live, age, or manage chronic disease. What TruDoc is building is healthcare as infrastructure: continuous, accountable, and designed to operate beyond four walls, at population scale.”

Asad Khan, CEO at TruDoc, said: “The question is no longer whether high-quality care can be delivered outside hospitals—it’s how fast healthcare systems can adapt to that reality. TruDoc has shown that hospital-grade, high-acuity care can be delivered safely and effectively in homes, at scale. This capital allows us to expand that model across the GCC while staying relentlessly focused on clinical excellence and patient trust.”

The post TruDoc raises $15 million in Pre-Series B appeared first on My Startup World - Everything About the World of Startups!.

Milan’s hotel industry has set a new benchmark for Winter Olympics performance, recording the highest occupancy peak since the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. According to data from CoStar, Milan’s hotel market averaged an impressive 83.4% occupancy during the 2026 Winter Olympic period, with peak occupancy reaching 89.3% on February 14. This marks a substantial 18.3% increase year-over-year, demonstrating the city’s thriving tourism sector during the prestigious event.

The Winter Olympics’ impact on Milan’s hospitality sector has been significant, with luxury properties seeing year-over-year growth in multiple key metrics. The city’s hotel market not only benefited from the influx of Olympic visitors but also experienced a wider rise in demand for both upscale and luxury accommodations. CoStar data highlights that Milan’s hotel market outperformed other host cities in recent Winter Olympics, with growth driven by strong demand from domestic and international visitors alike.

Winter Olympics 2026 Brings Record Occupancy and High Revenue for Milan Hotels

Milan’s hotel market saw remarkable performance during the Winter Olympics, particularly among its luxury and upper-upscale properties. The overall occupancy for the event period stood at 83.4%, with a peak of 89.3% on February 14, which is the highest recorded since the Vancouver Olympics in 2010, which saw 96.3% occupancy. This strong occupancy performance was accompanied by impressive increases in Average Daily Rate (ADR) and Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR).

CoStar’s data shows that Milan’s ADR during the Olympic period reached EUR568.73, marking a 215.5% increase year-over-year. The peak ADR was recorded on the night of the opening ceremony, where rates hit EUR548.38. RevPAR, another key indicator of hotel performance, averaged EUR474.12 for the entire event period, with the peak occurring on February 6 at EUR457.83. These figures reflect the strong demand for Milan’s hotel accommodations, particularly during high-demand periods such as the opening ceremony and key competition days.

Luxury and Upscale Properties Lead the Way in Growth

Among different hotel classes, Milan’s Upper Upscale properties posted the highest occupancy, averaging 88.0%, representing a 20.2% increase from the previous year. However, it was Milan’s luxury hotels that saw the most substantial growth across all performance metrics. Luxury properties reported the highest year-over-year increases in occupancy (+34.4%), ADR (+214.0%), and RevPAR (+321.9%), highlighting the strong demand for high-end accommodations during the Winter Olympics.

This performance underscores the growing importance of Milan’s luxury and upscale hotel market. With its status as a global tourism and business hub, the city continues to attract a wide range of international travelers, from sports enthusiasts attending the Winter Olympics to business executives and high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury accommodations. The significant increase in RevPAR indicates that travelers are not only staying longer but are also willing to pay premium prices for top-tier services and amenities.

The Impact on Milan’s Tourism Landscape and Hotel Industry

Milan’s stellar performance during the Winter Olympics signals the city’s continued rise as a global tourism destination. The city, known for its fashion, culture, and history, has become an increasingly attractive location for tourists, particularly during major international events like the Winter Olympics. With the 2026 Winter Games attracting both domestic and international tourists, Milan’s hospitality sector benefited from increased bookings, high occupancy rates, and substantial revenue growth.

The tourism sector in Milan, and Italy in general, is experiencing a rebound, driven by an increasing number of international visitors. In addition to the Winter Olympics, Milan is also hosting a range of cultural and business events, which further contributes to the demand for hotel rooms and services. This increased demand has made Milan one of Europe’s most sought-after hotel markets, with strong growth potential for both the short-term and long-term future.

What’s Next for Milan’s Hotel Market?

The impressive performance of Milan’s hotel market during the Winter Olympics is expected to continue into the coming months, with tourism forecasts indicating a strong summer season. As Milan continues to build its reputation as a top-tier destination, hotels in the city are likely to see continued growth in both occupancy and revenue, particularly in luxury and high-end segments. The city’s proximity to major international hubs, combined with its growing number of flights, makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking both business and leisure experiences.

Hotel operators in Milan will continue to invest in service excellence, customer satisfaction, and unique offerings to ensure the city remains competitive in the international tourism landscape. As the demand for quality accommodations rises, Milan’s hotel market is expected to remain resilient and dynamic, with ongoing efforts to enhance facilities and cater to the evolving needs of global travelers.

Conclusion: A Strong Future for Milan’s Hospitality Sector

Milan’s hotel industry has proven its resilience and strength during the 2026 Winter Olympics, achieving record-breaking occupancy and significant revenue growth. With a 34.4% increase in occupancy for luxury hotels, as well as double- and triple-digit growth in ADR and RevPAR, Milan has demonstrated its capacity to attract high-value travelers from around the world. As the city prepares for future events and a strong tourism season, the outlook for Milan’s hospitality market remains positive, with continued growth expected in both the luxury and upscale segments.

Tourism professionals and hotel operators in Milan can look forward to a thriving market, bolstered by increased demand for accommodations and the city’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a premier destination for global travelers. Milan’s success during the Winter Olympics sets a strong precedent for future events, further solidifying its status as one of Europe’s top tourism hubs.

\In late February 2026, a major milestone was reached in the history of international rail travel when the unveiling of the latest ICE 4 train was announced in Southern Austria. The newly christened “Steiermark” (Styria) train represents a significant step forward in international rail travel cooperation between Germany and Austria.

Cross-Border Cooperation Between Germany and Austria

The ICE 4’s debut highlights the growing partnership between Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) and Deutsche Bahn, two key players in European rail travel. This collaboration signifies not only a leap in transport efficiency but also an enhanced commitment to sustainability and regional development. With the ICE 4 train now running under the Styria name, it embodies the increasing efforts by both countries to improve mobility while promoting the region’s cultural and economic assets.

The introduction of the ICE 4 train also exemplifies the strengthening of the tourism sector in Southern Austria, particularly in Styria. The symbolic train carries the Styrian coat of arms and the region’s well-known Green Heart emblem, making it an ambassador for Styria’s rich heritage, diverse landscapes, and distinctive cuisine, while facilitating tourism across Europe.

ICE 4: An Icon of Modern Rail Comfort

The ICE 4, the flagship of Deutsche Bahn’s long-distance network, offers passengers exceptional comfort and state-of-the-art features. With a total of 444 seats, including 77 in first class and 367 in second class, the train is designed to provide a premium travel experience. The ergonomic seating and free Wi-Fi ensure that travelers can enjoy a relaxing and connected journey.

In addition to the high comfort levels, the ICE 4 also boasts a modern passenger information system that allows travelers to stay informed throughout their journey. The train is also equipped with eight bicycle spaces, making it an attractive option for those exploring the region on two wheels. Accessibility is a top priority, with integrated lifts and four dedicated wheelchair spaces, ensuring that the train is suitable for a wide range of passengers.

The Impact on Travel Times and Mobility

One of the most significant advantages of the new ICE 4 service is the dramatic reduction in travel time between Graz, the capital of Styria, and major cities in Germany. With the opening of the Koralm Railway, this high-speed line has become a game changer for rail travel in southern Austria. Previously, travel times between Graz and Munich could take up to six hours, but with the ICE 4, the journey is now completed in under 5 hours and 40 minutes.

Furthermore, the Koralm Railway has improved the link between Graz and Klagenfurt, reducing the journey to just 41 minutes. These enhancements not only benefit daily commuters but also provide international tourists with a more convenient and eco-friendly way to visit Styria, Austria’s Green Heart region. The increased speed and comfort make train travel an appealing alternative to flying or driving, while the environmental benefits of rail travel further support sustainability goals in the region.

Boosting Sustainable Tourism and Regional Economic Growth

The improved rail connectivity brings multiple benefits for both residents and international visitors. In addition to making it easier to travel between Graz and Munich, the ICE 4 trains offer five daily services in each direction, allowing for greater flexibility and convenience. The inclusion of a Nightjet sleeper train that connects Graz directly with Berlin overnight further enhances the accessibility of this iconic region.

For tourists, this new transport link creates seamless access to Styria’s captivating landscapes, historic towns, and world-renowned wine regions. The high-speed rail network helps make Styria a more attractive destination for those looking to explore Austria beyond the well-known capitals. With its unique mix of cultural, historical, and natural offerings, the region is set to become a prime destination for European travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Moreover, the ICE 4 trains not only benefit tourism but also stimulate regional economic growth. The improved accessibility of Styria facilitates better mobility for residents, workers, and businesspeople traveling to and from major economic hubs in Germany. This increased connectivity has the potential to foster cross-border collaborations, attract investment, and enhance trade between Austria and Germany, all of which contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.

A Key Driver of Sustainable Travel and Climate-Friendly Transport

Rail travel has long been recognized as a more sustainable mode of transportation compared to air travel and driving, and the introduction of the ICE 4 supports Austria’s and Germany’s commitment to green mobility. As concerns over climate change continue to grow, train travel offers a practical solution for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

The ICE 4’s energy-efficient design and reliance on renewable energy sources make it a model for the future of transportation in Europe. It offers a faster, more comfortable, and environmentally responsible alternative to other modes of transport, aligning with the European Union’s broader sustainability goals. This shift toward rail travel is expected to drive the transition to more sustainable tourism, further positioning rail as a key component of Europe’s future mobility landscape.

Nightjet Services Expand Rail Travel Options for Tourists

In addition to the daily high-speed services, the Nightjet sleeper train from Graz to Berlin presents an excellent option for long-distance travelers. This service allows passengers to travel overnight, arriving fresh and ready to explore their destinations. The expansion of overnight sleeper services underscores the commitment to enhancing rail travel options for tourists, particularly those looking to travel further afield while minimizing their environmental impact.

The Nightjet service not only provides a more sustainable mode of travel but also offers greater flexibility for tourists planning extended stays in Europe. With these options available, visitors from Germany and beyond can experience Styria and its surrounding areas with minimal disruption to their travel plans.

The Future of Rail Travel in Europe

The introduction of the ICE 4 “Styria” train is an important step forward in the advancement of the high-speed rail network in Europe. Not only does the introduction of the ICE 4 improve travel between Germany and Austria, but it also symbolizes the power of cooperation between nations, green travel, and the advancement of the region. As more travelers seek green travel options, the rail industry’s contribution to tourism, economic growth, and green travel will only increase.

The new rail connection is also the beginning of a new era for the region of Styria, which will attract more visitors to the region, increasing the tourism industry. As the new rail connection becomes an integral part of the rail network in Europe, it is evident that the future of travel in the region is fast, comfortable, and green.

Africa’s food and beverage (F&B) market, valued at approximately $346 billion in 2024, is entering an unprecedented growth phase. By 2032, this sector is projected to reach $567 billion (R9 trillion), with longer-term estimates suggesting the potential to surpass $1 trillion (R16 trillion) by 2030. The rapid expansion of urban populations, coupled with significant consumer demand shifts, is setting the stage for a new era in Africa’s F&B industry, making this market one of the continent’s most promising sectors.

What is Driving the Growth of Africa’s F&B Market?

The evolution of Africa’s food economy is being driven by rapid urbanization, an expanding middle class, and rising disposable incomes, creating a powerful shift in consumer purchasing habits. Urban areas are growing at an accelerated rate, with more people moving into cities and demanding higher-quality, convenient, and health-conscious products. As these urban centers develop, retail modernization is keeping pace, driving demand for value-added products across Africa’s diverse population.

Furthermore, Africa’s youthful population—characterized by its global connectivity and a strong preference for premium, health-focused, and convenience-oriented goods—is reshaping the way food is consumed. Young consumers are increasingly attracted to innovative offerings, with an eye on sustainability and wellness. This change in consumer behavior is creating vast opportunities for businesses involved in food processing, retail, and supply chain logistics.

The Hunger Crisis in Africa: A Call for Action

While the growth of the sector presents immense opportunities, it also underscores a major challenge: hunger. Currently, more than one in five people in Africa are affected by food insecurity. This is a critical issue that requires urgent attention as projections show that, by 2030, the number of people facing hunger could rise to a staggering 512 million, with nearly 60 percent of them in Africa. The rapid growth of the food economy must, therefore, be coupled with innovative solutions in food processing, pricing, logistics, and distribution to tackle these alarming statistics.

These challenges highlight the need for a more resilient food system, one that is capable of meeting the demands of both consumers and the millions in need of sustenance. It also calls for stronger infrastructural development, particularly in rural areas where access to food remains limited.

Africa Food Show 2026: Bridging Opportunities and Challenges

In light of this dynamic landscape, the Africa Food Show 2026, taking place from 10th to 12th June 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), will provide a pivotal platform for industry professionals. The event is strategically positioned as Africa’s leading food and beverage sourcing exhibition, where business growth intersects with solutions to the region’s most pressing challenges.

The Africa Food Show 2026 will bring together over 350 local and international exhibitors, alongside more than 8,000 industry professionals from over 60 countries. Attendees will have the opportunity to source food products, forge distribution partnerships, and explore the latest in food technology, all while navigating the complexities of Africa’s rapidly evolving food economy.

As the F&B sector grows, the show’s networking opportunities will be invaluable for companies looking to expand into African markets. Retailers, wholesalers, importers, exporters, and hospitality groups will gather to connect with manufacturers, distributors, and tech providers. The event will not only showcase Africa’s incredible potential in the F&B sector but will also shine a light on how businesses can address the region’s challenges related to hunger, distribution inefficiencies, and market access.

The Role of F&B in Africa’s Hospitality Boom

The Africa Food Show 2026 will be co-located with the Hotel & Hospitality Expo Africa, underscoring the significant relationship between the hospitality and foodservice sectors. Africa’s hotel development pipeline currently includes 577 hotels and resorts, totaling more than 104,000 rooms—a 13.3% increase from the previous year. This rapid growth in hospitality development presents strong demand for foodservice, beverages, ingredients, and operational solutions, thus amplifying the importance of the food and beverage sector.

What Can Attendees Expect at Africa Food Show 2026?

In addition to a wide range of exhibitors, Africa Food Show 2026 will feature headline attractions such as the Africa Culinary Cup, which will host junior culinary teams from Africa and the Middle East, and the National Pizza Challenge and National Burger Challenge, highlighting product innovation. On-floor workshops will address pressing industry topics such as innovation, sustainability, food safety, and growth strategies.

These features will help attendees stay ahead of trends in product development, sustainability practices, and food safety, all while strengthening their presence in the African market. By providing a structured space for networking, sourcing, and deal-making, Africa Food Show 2026 aims to propel Africa’s food and beverage industry toward even greater success in the coming years.

Why Africa Food Show is Essential for Industry Professionals

The Africa Food Show is not just a showcase for food and beverage companies but also an essential marketplace where long-term business relationships are formed. With a focus on Africa’s evolving food landscape, the event provides critical insights into consumer preferences, retail transformation, and supply chain strategies that will help businesses align with the continent’s growth trajectory.

As Africa’s food and beverage market continues to mature, Africa Food Show 2026 will serve as a crucial meeting point for companies looking to capitalize on emerging opportunities while contributing to the region’s efforts to fight hunger and improve food accessibility.

Conclusion:

Africa’s food and beverage sector stands at the threshold of remarkable growth, with enormous potential driven by urbanization, a growing middle class, and evolving consumer demands. The Africa Food Show 2026 will play a crucial role in fostering connections between businesses and in tackling the food security challenges that threaten the continent’s progress. Attendees will gain valuable insights and forge strategic partnerships, making this event a must-attend for anyone serious about thriving in Africa’s dynamic F&B market.

Qatar Airways has announced limited relief flights from Muscat and Riyadh to assist stranded passengers as the ongoing airspace closure delays the full resumption of its operations. The airline’s regular flight services remain suspended due to the continued closure of Qatari airspace, with operations set to resume only once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms it is safe to do so. As a result, these relief flights are being offered to key European destinations to help passengers reach their destinations while the situation persists. The airline’s priority remains the safety and well-being of its passengers during this disruption.

Qatar Airways has announced a temporary suspension of its flight operations due to the continued closure of Qatari airspace. The airline has informed its passengers that it will resume regular services once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority declares the airspace to be safe for operations. In the meantime, the airline has launched limited relief flights aimed at assisting stranded passengers across various regions.

This situation has emerged as a result of ongoing airspace restrictions, which have severely disrupted air travel in and out of Qatar. Despite the challenges posed by this unexpected disruption, Qatar Airways has confirmed that it remains committed to its passengers’ safety and well-being. The airline has emphasized that passenger safety remains the highest priority while operations are temporarily suspended.

Limited Relief Flights from Muscat and Riyadh

To provide some relief to those affected, Qatar Airways is set to operate limited relief flights. These operations are designed to assist passengers stranded in various locations due to the ongoing airspace closure. The airline has specifically focused on offering flights from Muscat and Riyadh, which will connect travelers to several key European destinations.

From Muscat, relief flights will be offered to major cities such as London Heathrow, Berlin, Copenhagen, Madrid, Rome, and Amsterdam. In addition, a special flight will be available from Riyadh to Frankfurt. These flights aim to ensure that stranded passengers can reach their destinations without further delay.

While the relief flights are designed to address the immediate needs of stranded travelers, Qatar Airways has advised passengers to wait for official notifications before heading to airports. The airline has requested that no passenger proceed to the airport unless they have received an official communication confirming their flight arrangements. This measure is crucial to prevent unnecessary crowding at airports and to ensure that only confirmed passengers are at the terminals.

Important Updates for Affected Passengers

For travelers affected by the ongoing disruptions, Qatar Airways has outlined a clear communication process. The airline will directly contact passengers who are impacted by the suspension of flights. These passengers will receive all the necessary details about their reassigned flights, alternative travel arrangements, and next steps.

Qatar Airways has advised passengers to ensure that their contact details are updated on the airline’s website or mobile application. This step is vital for receiving timely notifications about flight changes and relief flight details. By keeping their information up to date, passengers will be able to receive crucial updates as soon as they are available, ensuring that they are always informed about their travel plans.

Passengers will be provided with the necessary instructions to facilitate their travel and ensure they can safely complete their journey to their intended destinations. As the situation evolves, Qatar Airways has promised to issue further updates, keeping travelers informed about the status of operations and any changes to the airspace situation.

Impact of the Airspace Closure on Qatar Airways Operations

The airspace closure has had a significant impact on Qatar Airways’ ability to maintain its regular flight schedules. The airline, which is known for its extensive global network, has been forced to cancel several flights, affecting passengers across various regions. These cancellations are a direct result of the ongoing restrictions imposed on Qatar’s airspace.

The disruption is not only affecting Qatar Airways but also impacting other airlines operating in the region. As one of the key international air carriers, Qatar Airways has been at the forefront of efforts to assist passengers and provide alternative travel options. However, the extent of the airspace closure means that the airline’s operations will remain limited until the situation improves.

The airline’s leadership has stressed that all decisions related to the suspension of flights and the operation of relief flights are based on safety considerations. The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority’s guidance remains the determining factor in when regular services will resume. The closure of airspace has posed a unique challenge for the airline, and officials continue to monitor the situation closely.

Passenger Communication and Travel Guidance

For passengers who have been affected by the flight disruptions, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by Qatar Airways to minimize inconvenience. The airline has reiterated that passengers should not proceed to the airport unless they have received an official notification confirming their travel details. This precaution is vital to prevent any confusion or unnecessary delays at the airport.

In addition to direct notifications, Qatar Airways is providing travel updates via its website and mobile application. These platforms are essential for passengers to check their updated travel information and ensure they are on the correct flights. Qatar Airways has also emphasized that its customer service team is available to assist with any questions or concerns.

While the current situation has caused considerable frustration for travelers, the airline is committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible. The introduction of relief flights is a key part of this commitment, aimed at minimizing the disruption caused by the airspace closure. Passengers are advised to stay connected with Qatar Airways through the airline’s official channels for real-time updates.

Looking Ahead: Qatar Airways’ Future Operations

As the situation surrounding the airspace closure develops, Qatar Airways is optimistic that regular operations will resume once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority deems it safe. The airline is working closely with aviation authorities to ensure that when the airspace reopens, all necessary safety protocols are in place to guarantee a smooth transition back to normal operations.

While the suspension of flights has understandably caused inconvenience, Qatar Airways is focused on restoring its full service as soon as possible. The relief flights that have been scheduled are a temporary measure to alleviate the immediate impact on passengers, but the airline is committed to ensuring that these disruptions do not affect its long-term service standards.

Once the airspace is reopened and full operations resume, Qatar Airways is expected to continue providing its high-quality service to passengers around the world. The airline has a strong reputation for its exceptional customer service and extensive network, and it is expected to resume its normal operations promptly.

The suspension of Qatar Airways flights due to the ongoing airspace closure has caused significant disruption to travelers. However, the airline’s commitment to passenger safety and well-being remains unwavering. Through the operation of limited relief flights and clear communication with affected passengers, Qatar Airways is doing everything it can to minimize the impact of this disruption.

Passengers are advised to stay informed about their travel arrangements by keeping their contact details up to date and waiting for official notifications before heading to the airport. As the situation evolves, Qatar Airways is expected to provide further updates regarding the reopening of Qatari airspace and the resumption of regular flight services.

Qatar Airways is operating limited relief flights from Muscat and Riyadh to assist stranded passengers as the ongoing airspace closure delays the full resumption of operations, with services set to restart once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority confirms it is safe to do so.

In the meantime, Qatar Airways continues to monitor the situation and will act in accordance with the guidance provided by the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority. The airline remains focused on ensuring that its passengers are well-informed and that their travel plans are disrupted as little as possible.

As the world continues to recover from the pandemic and global travel rebounds, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for tourism. Travel experts have identified the seven hottest destinations that are poised to attract travellers in 2026. From the stunning natural landscapes of Kyrgyzstan to the emerging cultural hub of South Korea, these destinations offer something for every kind of traveller—whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or history.

The following destinations have been picked for their unique attractions, exciting developments, and the promise of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re booking your next adventure or considering a business trip, these places are likely to be at the top of every traveller’s list.

1. Mallorca: Spain’s “It” Island for 2026

Mallorca, long known for its beautiful beaches and bohemian charm, is being hailed as Spain’s newest hotspot for luxury travel. According to ASmallWorld, the island has become one of the most talked-about destinations for 2026. What sets Mallorca apart is its diversity, offering everything from quiet, secluded beaches to vibrant urban hubs like Palma, filled with excellent restaurants, art galleries, and a lively nightlife.

Luxury hotel brands like Mandarin Oriental are expanding in the area, adding to its appeal. The island is also prioritising sustainable tourism, with local authorities enforcing stricter regulations to combat over-tourism and ensure a more authentic visitor experience. This makes Mallorca an excellent choice for both business travellers looking for convenience and leisure visitors seeking a sophisticated escape.

2. The United States: Celebrating Milestones in 2026

The United States, despite its political turbulence, remains a major global tourism destination, and 2026 promises to be a landmark year for travel. The country is celebrating two major anniversaries: the 250th anniversary of its independence and the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66 highway. This is an excellent time to explore the historical roots of the nation.

Additionally, the United States will be one of the host nations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with cities like Atlanta, Miami, and Boston expected to see a surge in tourism. For those interested in dark sky tourism, the US offers some of the best spots to stargaze, particularly in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho. The weakening dollar also makes the US more attractive to British and Irish tourists, making it a good choice for those looking for value in 2026.

3. Mozambique: A Hidden Gem for Nature and Beach Lovers

Mozambique has been gaining popularity as a “bush and beach” destination, where visitors can combine thrilling safaris with relaxing beach holidays. The country’s Gorongosa National Park has undergone extensive restoration efforts, bringing back its lion, elephant, and buffalo populations. Mozambique’s coastline, famous for its coral reefs and pristine beaches, is perfect for diving and marine adventures, including whale shark and manta ray sightings.

Although the northern region of Mozambique remains unstable, the rest of the country is safe to visit, and its growing eco-tourism sector makes it an appealing option for environmentally-conscious travellers. The “bush and beach” experience makes Mozambique an ideal getaway for those who seek both adventure and relaxation.

4. Kyrgyzstan: Central Asia’s Best-Kept Secret

Known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes and nomadic culture, Kyrgyzstan is emerging as an exciting destination for adventurers in 2026. While Uzbekistan is the more commonly visited destination in Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan offers unique experiences with its Tien Shan mountain range, tranquil lakes like Köl-Suu and Köl-Tör, and the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve.

The country’s rapidly growing tourism sector is drawing trekkers and nature lovers who can enjoy multi-day hikes, stay in traditional yurts, and explore untouched landscapes. In 2026, Kyrgyzstan will receive more attention with the release of a documentary highlighting its natural beauty, and travel companies like Intrepid are offering new itineraries to explore this stunning region.

5. Colombia: Latin America’s Rising Star

Once known primarily for its backpacker-friendly destinations, Colombia has now reinvented itself as a luxury travel hotspot. Cities like Cartagena are becoming increasingly popular with high-end travellers, thanks to the opening of luxury hotels like the Four Seasons in 2026. The country offers a combination of rich cultural history, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, from the coffee regions to the Caribbean coast.

Colombia’s growing appeal lies in its cultural renewal, especially in the creative hubs of Bogotá and Medellín, where visitors can enjoy a blend of modern art, culinary delights, and vibrant nightlife. For both leisure and business travellers, Colombia is a destination that blends tradition and luxury, offering a truly immersive experience.

6. South Korea: The K-Pop Phenomenon and Beyond

With its growing cultural influence worldwide, South Korea is becoming one of the hottest destinations in 2026. The K-Pop wave continues to expand its global reach, and the recent addition of direct flights from London Heathrow to Seoul by Virgin Atlantic has made this destination even more accessible. Beyond Seoul’s bustling city life, Jeju Island, known for its beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, is a must-visit for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

In addition, South Korea is attracting business travellers, particularly in technology and innovation, with major events like the 2026 Winter Olympics still fresh in the global memory. With the rise of luxury hotels and new travel routes, South Korea’s unique blend of modernity and tradition makes it an exciting destination for 2026.

7. Georgia: Eastern Europe’s Hidden Treasure

Georgia, located between Europe and Asia, is fast becoming a popular destination for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The country boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and some of the oldest vineyards in the world. The capital, Tbilisi, is known for its charming old town, while the countryside offers ancient monasteries, churches, and castles to explore.

New flight routes to Georgia are making it easier than ever to visit, and the country’s affordability, welcoming culture, and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal destination for tourists looking for something different. Whether you’re hiking in the Caucasus Mountains or exploring the wine-making region, Georgia offers an authentic, affordable, and enriching experience.

Quick Tips for 2026 Travelers

• Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on travel advisories, especially for destinations like Mozambique or Kyrgyzstan, where safety can vary.
• Plan Ahead for Flights: Book flights early, especially for popular destinations like South Korea and Colombia, where demand is rising.
• Travel Light for Adventure: For destinations like Kyrgyzstan, pack light for trekking and outdoor activities.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Always ensure your travel insurance covers activities such as adventure sports, especially in regions like South Korea and Colombia.
• Respect Local Customs: Each of these destinations has rich cultural traditions, so be mindful of local customs and practices to ensure an enjoyable and respectful visit.

Conclusion: Where Will You Go in 2026?

The seven destinations for 2026 represent the diversity of experiences available to travelers next year. From the rugged beauty of Kyrgyzstan and Georgia to the cultural dynamism of South Korea and Colombia, these destinations offer a mix of adventure, luxury, and culture that is sure to inspire your next getaway. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a family, or a business visitor, 2026 is the year to explore new horizons and immerse yourself in some of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Fincantieri, one of the world’s leading shipbuilding companies, has completed the delivery of Norwegian Luna to Norwegian Cruise Line at its Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy. This is the second ship in the expanded Prima Plus Class series, which is being built for Norwegian Cruise Line. This is not the first time Fincantieri has delivered a ship to Norwegian Cruise Line, as it had previously completed the successful delivery of Norwegian Aqua in 2025.

The ceremony was attended by prominent personalities from Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line. Biagio Mazzotta, Chairman of Fincantieri, and Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division, attended the ceremony on behalf of Fincantieri. Marc Kazlauskas, NCL President, Patrik Dahlgren, NCLH EVP, Chief Vessel Operations and Newbuild Officer, and Daniel S. Farkas, EVP, and General Counsel, all from Norwegian Cruise Line and its parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), attended the ceremony on their behalf.

Norwegian Luna: A New Milestone in Cruise Ship Innovation

Norwegian Luna, like her sister ship Norwegian Aqua, is a significant addition to the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. With a size of 156,000 gross tons and a length of 321 meters, the ship offers more than 3,550 berths, making her 10% larger than the original Prima-class vessels, including Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. The Prima Plus Class was designed to provide an enhanced cruising experience, combining luxurious accommodations with cutting-edge facilities for both leisure and business travelers.

This new delivery continues Norwegian Cruise Line’s strategy of expanding its fleet with state-of-the-art vessels. The Norwegian Luna features the most modern amenities, including expansive dining venues, entertainment options, and wellness facilities, making her a key player in luxury cruising.

Fincantieri’s Role in Crafting the Future of the Cruise Industry

The construction of Norwegian Luna was a complex, collaborative effort involving around 3,000 workers from Fincantieri and its partner companies. These workers completed the vessel’s construction over the past several months, with Fincantieri playing a central role in bringing the vision of Norwegian Cruise Line to life.

Fincantieri has long been a key player in the shipbuilding industry, known for delivering innovative and high-quality ships to the world’s leading cruise lines. The company’s dedication to excellence and attention to detail ensure that ships like Norwegian Luna offer both cutting-edge design and operational efficiency.

The Growing Prima Plus Class Fleet

The Prima Plus Class represents the future of Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet, with ships designed to deliver an unmatched luxury cruising experience. The delivery of Norwegian Luna further strengthens the brand’s position in the competitive cruise market, as the ship’s design, size, and offerings appeal to a growing base of affluent travelers seeking unparalleled experiences at sea.

With Norwegian Aqua already delivered and Norwegian Luna now in service, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its fleet, with future ships in the Prima Plus Class set to redefine what travelers expect from luxury cruise experiences.

Cruise Tourism’s Expanding Impact on Global Travel

The delivery of Norwegian Luna is more than just a milestone for Norwegian Cruise Line and Fincantieri—it’s a powerful testament to the growing importance of cruise tourism in global travel. The cruise industry, which has seen significant growth over the last few years, continues to provide a major economic boost to destinations worldwide. As more luxury vessels like Norwegian Luna hit the seas, they bring a wave of economic benefits, from increased tourism spending to job creation.

Cruise tourism has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global tourism industry. According to recent reports, the cruise sector generates billions in revenue annually, with cruise ships providing travelers with both luxury and value. Ships like Norwegian Luna, with their state-of-the-art amenities and expansive capacity, play a crucial role in this growth, helping attract a broader range of travelers, from seasoned cruisers to first-time luxury passengers.

The impact extends beyond the cruise lines themselves. Cruise tourism injects revenue into local economies, as thousands of passengers visit ports of call, boosting demand for local accommodations, restaurants, excursions, and retail. This ripple effect of spending is vital to supporting small businesses and enhancing the local tourism infrastructure of various destinations.

What’s Next for Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line?

Following the successful delivery of Norwegian Luna, the relationship between Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line continues to evolve. Both companies are committed to pushing the boundaries of ship design and maritime innovation, and their continued collaboration promises more groundbreaking vessels in the future.

As Fincantieri looks toward its next projects and Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its offerings, Norwegian Luna is a significant milestone in both companies’ shared history. With the delivery of Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line now has a new, highly competitive vessel that will continue to draw guests from around the globe, while setting a new standard for luxury, innovation, and sustainability at sea.

Cruise Tourism’s Future Impact: Norwegian Luna and Beyond

The introduction of Norwegian Luna serves as an important milestone in the history of luxury cruise tourism, as travelers seek more immersive, luxurious, and sustainable cruise experiences. The future of cruise tourism is headed towards an increase in eco-friendly cruise tourism, innovative cruise ship designs, and luxury cruise tourism. Norwegian Luna embodies all the above trends.

As cruise tourism continues to grow, cruise ships like Norwegian Luna will not only boost the reputation of Norwegian Cruise Line but also establish the position of luxury cruise tourism as an integral part of the global tourism market. The introduction of more advanced cruise ships is paving the way for the future of cruise tourism, where cruise ships will function as cruise cities, offering everything that travelers need while on their way to exotic locations.

Air Canada is set to launch new daily flights from Montreal and Toronto to Athens, Greece, starting in 2026. This move aims to offer travellers more flexibility and enhanced connectivity, strengthening the airline’s presence in the European market. With growing demand for international travel and Greece’s popularity as a tourist destination, these new direct routes will provide seamless access to Athens from two of Canada’s busiest airports. This expansion highlights Air Canada’s commitment to improving global connectivity and offering customers more options for their travel plans.

Air Canada, one of Canada’s leading airlines, has made a strategic move in response to the ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East. In light of the uncertain situation in the region, the airline has suspended its flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv. This decision is part of a broader shift in Air Canada’s operational strategy, as the airline redirects its focus to more stable regions with high travel demand. Among the primary beneficiaries of this change is Greece, which is seeing a marked increase in connectivity with North America for the 2026 travel season.

For the upcoming travel season, Air Canada will operate direct flights between Athens, Greece, and Canada from March to November. This service will be available with daily flights from both Montreal and Toronto, two of the airline’s major hubs. These new offerings align with the airline’s aim to expand its network and ensure that travellers have a seamless and more accessible route to Greece, one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations.

The strategic expansion is expected to provide travellers with a broader range of flight options, especially during peak travel periods. Greece, with its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and Mediterranean charm, continues to attract increasing numbers of international visitors, particularly from North America. Air Canada’s expanded schedule reflects the growing demand for travel to the Greek capital, offering more options for Canadian and North American travellers to visit the destination.

The airline has outlined that during the busy summer months, it will further ramp up its operations, providing additional flight frequencies to accommodate the surge in demand. This adjustment is crucial for ensuring that travellers have the flexibility they need to plan their vacations or business trips to Greece with ease.

• Montreal to Athens: During the peak summer season, Montreal–Athens flights will be operated up to 10 times per week.
• Toronto to Athens: Likewise, flights between Toronto and Athens will run up to 11 times per week.

These increased frequencies will allow Air Canada to cater to a greater number of passengers and help accommodate the rising demand for travel to Greece during the summer months. For travellers, this also translates to more convenient departure times and greater flexibility in their travel schedules, making it easier to book flights that align with their needs.

The announcement comes at an opportune time as Canada also officially recognises March as Hellenic Heritage Month. This observance highlights the significant contributions that Greek Canadians have made to the cultural and social fabric of the country. It serves as an opportunity to celebrate the long-standing ties between Greece and Canada, fostering a deeper appreciation for Greek culture, history, and heritage.

Air Canada’s decision to prioritize Greece as a key destination underscores the increasing importance of cultural and historical connections between countries, particularly within the context of tourism. As Greek Canadians make up a notable and active part of Canada’s population, the expanded flight schedule offers an additional bridge between the two nations, enhancing people-to-people connections and promoting cultural exchange.

The suspension of flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv has prompted Air Canada to reallocate resources and adjust its strategic priorities for the year. The Middle East, particularly cities like Dubai and Tel Aviv, have traditionally been popular hubs for international travel. However, with the current geopolitical instability, the airline is prioritizing regions that offer greater stability and have a higher and more consistent demand for international flights, like Greece. This shift is likely to be well-received by both leisure travellers seeking vacation destinations and business travellers who need more dependable routes.

While Air Canada’s focus on Greece is clear, the expanded service will not only benefit Greek Canadians but also provide opportunities for other North American travellers to explore Greece’s diverse offerings. From its ancient ruins, stunning islands, and Mediterranean coastline to its vibrant cities like Athens, Greece remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The increased connectivity between Canada and Greece is set to make these attractions even more accessible.

The airline’s decision to increase flight frequencies and focus on high-demand destinations also aligns with a broader trend in the global travel industry, which has seen a rapid recovery in passenger demand after the pandemic. With more travellers eager to return to international destinations, airlines have been quick to adjust their schedules and services to meet this renewed interest. Air Canada’s expansion into Greece is just one example of how airlines are responding to market trends and ensuring that travellers have access to the most desirable destinations.

As Greece continues to grow in popularity as a top European destination, Air Canada’s enhanced services to Athens, coupled with the increase in frequencies, are poised to meet the needs of North American travellers. Whether visiting for leisure or business, the expanded schedule offers flexibility and better connectivity, making it easier to travel between North America and Greece.

Air Canada is launching new daily flights from Montreal and Toronto to Athens in 2026, offering travellers greater flexibility and improved connectivity to Greece, driven by increasing demand for direct international routes.

Air Canada’s decision to focus on Greece as a prime destination for the 2026 season reflects the shifting dynamics of the travel industry in response to changing geopolitical conditions. With increased flight frequencies from Montreal and Toronto to Athens, the airline is offering passengers more choices and greater flexibility for travel to one of Europe’s most culturally rich and historically significant countries. As Greece continues to capture the imagination of travellers worldwide, this move positions Air Canada to be a key player in the growing demand for travel between Canada and Greece.

LATAM Airlines, the largest airline group in Latin America, has just launched a game-changing direct flight route between Amsterdam and São Paulo, set to begin in March 2026. This major development is poised to spark an unprecedented surge in Brazil’s tourism sector, giving European travelers a convenient, seamless entry to one of South America’s most vibrant destinations. With this new connection, LATAM aims to meet the growing demand for travel to Brazil, positioning São Paulo as a key gateway for Europeans seeking to explore Brazil’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and bustling cities. As Brazil’s tourism sector continues to break records with over 9 million foreign visitors in 2025, LATAM’s strategic expansion reinforces the country’s appeal on the global stage. This route not only strengthens Brazil’s international connectivity but also promises to revolutionize the hospitality industry, bringing a flood of tourists who will fill the country’s hotels, resorts, and unique local experiences. As airlines race to adapt to the post-pandemic travel boom, LATAM’s new Amsterdam–São Paulo flights promise to redefine travel between Europe and Brazil, unlocking new opportunities for both travelers and the local economy.

LATAM Airlines Launches Direct Amsterdam–São Paulo Flights, Set to Skyrocket Brazil’s Tourism Boom – What This Means for Hotels and Travelers!

LATAM Airlines is propelling Brazil’s tourism to new heights with the introduction of its direct flight route from Amsterdam to São Paulo, launching on March 30, 2026. This move is poised to greatly impact the travel and hospitality sectors in Brazil and Europe, providing a significant boost to the country’s rapidly growing tourism industry. With increased accessibility between Europe and Brazil, LATAM Airlines is set to contribute to the influx of international tourists, particularly from the Netherlands and surrounding countries, eager to explore Brazil’s diverse offerings.

LATAM Airlines’ Direct Amsterdam–São Paulo Flight: A Game-Changer for Brazil’s Tourism Boom

As LATAM Airlines takes a major leap in enhancing connectivity between Europe and Brazil, the introduction of a direct flight from Amsterdam to São Paulo signals a bright future for both the airline and Brazil’s tourism industry. Starting in March 2026, this direct service will operate six times weekly, making it more convenient than ever for European travelers to explore Brazil’s rich culture, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. The launch of this route is expected to bolster the growing demand for international tourism in Brazil, particularly as the country continues to break records in foreign arrivals.

Flight Details and What Travelers Can Expect

LATAM Airlines’ Amsterdam–São Paulo route will be operated using the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 aircraft, offering travelers a modern, comfortable experience with a seating capacity of 303, including an enhanced business class cabin and expanded economy seating. The Boeing 787-9, known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, will serve as the perfect choice for this long-haul route. With LATAM’s commitment to offering affordable airfares while maintaining high standards of service, this new connection is expected to attract both leisure and business travelers alike.

The flight will take off from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and arrive at São Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport, making it a convenient and quick option for travelers heading to Brazil. As Brazil continues to set new records for international visitors, this new direct connection will provide an easy access point for travelers from the Netherlands and other European countries, further boosting Brazil’s tourism appeal.

LATAM Airlines and the Growing Demand for Brazil

LATAM’s decision to add Amsterdam to its long-haul European network is a reflection of Brazil’s burgeoning tourism sector. The country’s tourism industry has been experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with international arrivals surpassing 9 million in 2025, breaking all previous records. European travelers, particularly those from the Netherlands, have shown increasing interest in visiting Brazil, contributing significantly to the rise in inbound tourism. LATAM Airlines is capitalizing on this trend by adding Amsterdam to its list of major European gateways, further strengthening Brazil’s position as a leading destination for international travelers.

In 2025, Brazil saw a significant increase in visitors from countries such as Italy, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. With the addition of the Amsterdam route, the country is expected to see even more tourists from northern Europe, bringing increased demand for accommodation, dining, and travel experiences. LATAM Airlines’ new route will play a key role in unlocking this potential by providing a direct link to São Paulo, Brazil’s largest city and a major gateway to the rest of the country.

Hotels and Hospitality: Bracing for an Influx of Tourists

The launch of LATAM Airlines’ Amsterdam–São Paulo flight will undoubtedly have a profound impact on Brazil’s hospitality industry. Hotels, resorts, and other accommodation providers in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and beyond are preparing for a surge in demand as more European travelers flock to the country. With easy access to Brazil, international tourists are expected to spend more time in both the iconic cities and lesser-known destinations, exploring Brazil’s diverse landscapes, beaches, and cultural landmarks.

Hotels in São Paulo, for instance, are already gearing up for increased bookings. The city, known for its vibrant culture, modern architecture, and business hubs, is expected to attract more European visitors, particularly from the Netherlands, thanks to the new direct flight route. Additionally, Brazil’s coastal regions and eco-tourism destinations are expected to see a spike in interest as travelers take advantage of the ease of travel to explore beyond the major cities.

Brazil’s tourism sector is experiencing a shift toward longer stays, with more travelers looking to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture, nature, and cuisine. This trend is expected to benefit not only hotels and resorts but also smaller accommodation providers, such as eco-lodges and boutique hotels, which are increasingly catering to tourists seeking more personalized and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

A More Accessible Brazil for European Tourists

The addition of the Amsterdam–São Paulo route is expected to make Brazil more accessible to tourists across Europe. Previously, travelers from the Netherlands and surrounding countries had to rely on connecting flights via major European hubs like Paris, Frankfurt, or Madrid. LATAM’s new direct service eliminates the need for multiple layovers, making the journey quicker, more convenient, and stress-free for travelers.

The impact on the hospitality industry is significant, as tourists can now plan their trips more easily and confidently, knowing that they have a direct flight option. This will likely result in increased bookings and more long-haul travelers choosing Brazil as their next vacation destination. Moreover, the convenience of a direct connection is expected to open up new markets, with tourists from Scandinavian countries, Eastern Europe, and the UK also benefiting from the new route.

Tourist-Friendly Travel Tips: Navigating Brazil’s Growing Tourism Market

As more travelers flock to Brazil, it’s important for tourists to be prepared for the unique experiences and challenges that come with visiting a popular destination. Here are a few travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Brazil:

1. Book Your Accommodation Early: With the surge in international arrivals, hotels and other accommodation options in major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Salvador are likely to fill up quickly. It’s recommended to book your stay well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Explore Beyond the Cities: While Brazil’s major cities are must-see destinations, there’s so much more to explore beyond them. Consider venturing to the Amazon Rainforest, Pantanal wetlands, or the stunning beaches of Bahia and Florianópolis. The new direct flight route will make it easier for tourists to access Brazil’s interior regions, which are seeing increased interest from international visitors.
3. Embrace Brazil’s Nature and Culture: Brazil’s natural beauty and vibrant culture are key draws for tourists. From the lush rainforests and pristine beaches to the lively festivals and delicious cuisine, make sure to take the time to experience the country’s diverse offerings.
4. Understand the Visa Process: Travelers from many countries, including the Netherlands, do not require a visa for short stays in Brazil. However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific entry requirements before booking your trip, as regulations can change.
5. Be Prepared for Regional Differences: Brazil is a vast country, and each region has its own unique charm and characteristics. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, cultural norms, and local dialects. While Portuguese is the official language, many Brazilians in tourist areas speak English, so communication should not be a barrier.

The Future of Brazil’s Tourism: More Routes, More Visitors

With the addition of the Amsterdam–São Paulo route, LATAM Airlines is continuing its expansion of international flight connections to Brazil. This move is part of a broader trend in Brazil’s tourism sector, as the country continues to attract more international visitors, particularly from Europe. In recent years, Brazil has seen a remarkable surge in tourism, with the number of international visitors growing by over 30% in 2025 alone. The country’s tourism industry is projected to continue growing in the coming years, fueled by new air routes, increased demand for cultural and eco-tourism experiences, and a growing middle class in emerging markets.

As LATAM Airlines continues to expand its network and Brazil’s tourism infrastructure improves, more international travelers will flock to the country, seeking to experience its natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. For tourists, the future looks bright as Brazil becomes increasingly accessible, with more direct flight options and an expanding range of accommodation and travel services.

LATAM Airlines is set to transform Brazil’s tourism landscape with its new direct flight route from Amsterdam to São Paulo, launching in March 2026. This strategic move promises to boost international travel and fuel demand across Brazil’s hospitality industry.

Brazil’s Tourism Revolution Starts with LATAM Airlines’ New Route

LATAM Airlines’ new direct flight from Amsterdam to São Paulo represents a significant milestone for Brazil’s tourism industry. By making travel easier, faster, and more convenient for European tourists, the airline is helping to drive a surge in international visitors, particularly from northern Europe. The hospitality industry is poised to benefit from this influx, with hotels, resorts, and other accommodation providers preparing for a boom in bookings. With the convenience of a direct flight and the promise of a rich, diverse travel experience, Brazil is set to become one of the most sought-after destinations for travelers in the coming years. Whether you’re looking to explore the cities, relax on the beaches, or immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty, LATAM Airlines’ new route is your gateway to an unforgettable Brazilian adventure.

The highly anticipated Brussels to Milan night train, a groundbreaking service from European Sleeper, has faced an unexpected delay, but this only adds to the excitement surrounding its launch. Originally set to begin in June 2026, the service is now slated for a 9 September 2026 launch. While the delay may disappoint eager travellers, it only enhances the anticipation of what promises to be a truly transformative rail link connecting some of Europe’s most iconic cities.

Why the Delay? Major Infrastructure Overhaul and Certification Setbacks

So, why the delay? The first major hurdle came in the form of extensive track upgrades in Germany during the summer months. These improvements are vital for ensuring that the route runs smoothly and safely across borders, but they have inevitably pushed back the train’s launch date. Additionally, certification issues in Switzerland, where the night train will pass through, have further delayed the start. With safety and operational standards a top priority, these setbacks are unavoidable. But as the saying goes, good things come to those who wait!

What to Expect: A Dream Route Connecting Brussels, Zurich, and Milan

Once launched, the Brussels to Milan night train will provide an incredible, eco-friendly travel experience. This new sleeper train will operate three times a week, offering a seamless, overnight connection between Brussels, Cologne, Zurich, and Milan. For travellers seeking to explore the best of Europe in style, this service will be a game-changer.

Imagine departing from Brussels in the evening, a city rich with culture and history, and waking up in Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, ready to dive into its glamorous streets, historical landmarks, and vibrant culinary scene. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore Cologne, known for its stunning cathedral, and Zurich, a Swiss gem nestled between the mountains and a serene lake.

Why the Brussels–Milan Night Train Will Revolutionize European Travel

This new rail service is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a sustainable travel experience designed to replace short-haul flights and provide a more relaxing way to travel across Europe. With night trains gaining popularity as a greener alternative to flying, European Sleeper’s expansion signals a positive shift toward more environmentally conscious travel options.

For many, this route offers the perfect balance of convenience and comfort. Instead of wasting precious daylight hours in transit, you’ll be able to sleep through the journey, waking up refreshed and ready to explore your destination. Plus, with a range of accommodation options – from standard seating to luxurious sleeper compartments – there’s a choice for every traveller. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, this service will be a convenient and efficient way to explore Europe.

Ticket Sales Open Soon: Don’t Miss Out on Your Seat!

Tickets for the highly awaited Brussels to Milan night train will go on sale starting 17 March 2026, giving travellers the chance to book their spots ahead of the September launch. Prices are expected to start at a budget-friendly €29.99 for basic seating, with more premium options such as couchettes and comfort plus cabins available for those who want a bit more luxury. Whether you’re a backpacker or a business traveller, the European Sleeper night train is sure to cater to a variety of needs.

The operator has made booking as simple as possible, offering online reservations, detailed itineraries, and travel tips to ensure a seamless journey.

An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Air Travel: The Green Future of European Rail

As more and more people are looking for sustainable travel options, night trains like the Brussels–Milan route are becoming a top choice. Travelling by rail not only reduces carbon emissions compared to flying but also allows passengers to skip the hassle of airports, baggage fees, and delays. This night train service is the perfect way to travel across borders while minimizing your environmental footprint.

In fact, European rail travel is experiencing a revival, with several new services being introduced to meet the growing demand for eco-conscious transportation. European Sleeper is at the forefront of this movement, offering both a greener and more comfortable alternative to flying, making it a win-win for both the planet and the traveller.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Network of European Sleeper Routes

The Brussels–Milan route is just the beginning for European Sleeper. The operator is planning to expand further into other major European cities, with new routes potentially connecting Amsterdam, Vienna, and more. These developments will create even greater travel options for people seeking to explore Europe in an environmentally responsible way.

As European Sleeper continues to grow, it brings Europe closer together, enhancing both tourism and trade while offering a comfortable, affordable, and sustainable way to travel. Expect more night trains to come on line in the future, making European travel easier and greener for everyone.

In Conclusion: The Wait Will Be Worth It!

While the delay of the Brussels to Milan night train may be disappointing for eager travellers, the new service promises to be well worth the wait. With an anticipated start date of 9 September 2026, passengers will be able to travel across Europe in comfort, all while reducing their environmental impact. The service is set to transform how we think about travel, connecting major cities like Brussels, Zurich, and Milan in an affordable and eco-friendly way.

The news of this exciting development reinforces Europe’s growing commitment to sustainable transport options that benefit both travellers and the planet. So, mark your calendars for September, and get ready for an unforgettable night train experience!

Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai, the giants of Middle Eastern aviation, have found themselves in a critical situation as escalating tensions between Israel, the United States, and Iran have forced these airlines to suspend or significantly reduce their flight operations. The ongoing geopolitical unrest has led to airspace closures across the Gulf region, including the vital corridors used by these carriers for international flights. This disruption has triggered a massive ripple effect not only across the aviation industry but also within the tourism and hospitality sectors in countries like the UAE and Qatar. With millions of travelers left stranded, altered itineraries, and hotel bookings cancelled at iconic properties like Hilton and Marriott, the travel landscape has been turned upside down. What once seemed like a booming region for tourism is now facing one of its most uncertain periods in history. As air travel becomes more complicated by the day, passengers must navigate the shifting skies, while the hospitality industry braces for long-term financial impact. With flight routes re-routed or grounded entirely and tourism revenues taking a significant hit, the question on everyone’s mind is: when will the dust settle, and how can travelers adjust to this rapidly changing environment?

Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai Suspend Flights Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict – What This Means for UAE, Qatar, and Hospitality Giants Like Hilton!

The travel world has been rocked by the escalating tensions between Israel, Iran, and the United States, leading to widespread disruptions in the airline industry, particularly in the Middle East. Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai have all been forced to suspend or limit flights due to airspace closures. The consequences of these suspensions are not only impacting the airlines but also the tourism and hospitality sectors in countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The sudden stoppage of flights is creating a ripple effect, affecting millions of travelers, travel plans, and the hospitality industry. While the situation remains fluid, it’s essential for travelers to understand what this means for their upcoming trips, flight options, and the overall state of tourism in the region.

Flight Suspensions and Airline Operations

Qatar Airways, one of the largest and most renowned airlines in the world, has been forced to suspend flights multiple times due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. The airline, which operates from Hamad International Airport (DOH), has faced airspace closures as a result of military action between Israel and Iran, with retaliatory strikes affecting countries like Qatar. As of early March 2026, Qatar Airways had temporarily suspended flight operations due to these airspace restrictions. The airline’s operations are still in limbo, with a next update scheduled for March 7, 2026, to determine if flights can resume.

Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai, the UAE’s major carriers, have also faced disruptions. These airlines are among the largest in the world, with Emirates, in particular, flying to destinations across six continents. However, the closure of Middle Eastern airspace has led to cancellations and delays for flights departing from major hubs such as Dubai International Airport (DXB), Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), and Sharjah International Airport (SHJ).

These suspensions are not only inconveniencing travelers but are also severely impacting airlines’ finances, with some estimating that losses in the region’s aviation sector could exceed $50 million in the short term. In particular, Emirates has grounded many of its aircraft while rerouting others to avoid restricted airspace. Similarly, Etihad Airways has shifted its routes, which have caused longer flight times, adding extra fuel costs, and subsequently higher fares for affected passengers.

What This Means for the Hospitality Industry in Qatar and UAE

The hospitality sector is feeling the immediate impact of flight suspensions. Major hotel chains in the UAE, including Hilton, Marriott, and Accor, are seeing a sharp increase in cancellations. Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which rely heavily on international tourists, have been left with empty rooms as travelers are forced to adjust or cancel their plans. Qatar’s hotel industry is also reeling as international visitors, particularly those en route to Dubai and other major hubs, alter their travel routes or decide to avoid the region altogether.

Hotel chains, especially luxury brands like the Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and St. Regis, are facing considerable losses due to the influx of cancellations and delays. These disruptions could lead to a decrease in overall bookings throughout 2026, severely impacting the tourism economy in these regions.

Qatar, known for its massive investments in tourism and infrastructure, was gearing up for a tourism boom following the World Cup in 2022, but this latest crisis could derail progress in the hospitality sector. While some hotels are offering discounted rates for those still willing to travel to Qatar, the broader outlook remains bleak, with many travelers opting for safer, alternative destinations.

The UAE has also faced a drop in international visitor numbers, especially from countries in the West, due to increasing travel advisories and airline restrictions. The ongoing situation has led to concerns about long-term stability in the tourism sector, with experts predicting a slow recovery if tensions do not ease soon.

Flight Details: What Travelers Need to Know

For those still planning to travel to the Middle East, it’s crucial to stay informed about flight schedules and potential cancellations. Many airlines have already resumed partial operations, but with limited routes. Qatar Airways, for example, began limited services from Muscat and Riyadh starting March 5, 2026, as a means of facilitating evacuations and providing essential services. Passengers are advised to wait for official updates on flight status before heading to the airport, as many services are subject to immediate changes.

Emirates, similarly, has resumed some short-haul routes but has suspended many international flights to destinations like Tel Aviv, Tehran, and other conflict zones. Etihad Airways has announced that it will continue operations on routes to European and Asian destinations but will avoid flying through restricted airspace over the Middle East.

Flydubai, a low-cost carrier based in Dubai, has been forced to cancel several flights, especially those departing for Iran and Iraq, until further notice. Travelers should ensure their contact details are up-to-date with their airlines to receive real-time flight updates.

Travel Tips for Navigating Flight Disruptions

1. Stay Updated: Always check the official airline website or mobile app for the latest updates on flight cancellations or delays. Make sure your contact information is current so the airline can notify you of any changes.
2. Flexible Travel Plans: If possible, book flights with flexible policies that allow for changes or cancellations. Many airlines are waiving rebooking fees for travelers affected by the conflict.
3. Avoid Layovers in Affected Regions: If you’re traveling from Europe to Asia or Africa, consider flying via alternative routes that avoid Middle Eastern airspace. Airlines may offer rerouted flights to bypass the conflict zone.
4. Use Miles Wisely: If you are a frequent flyer, now is a good time to use your miles to book alternative routes. Many airlines are offering bonus miles on specific routes to encourage travel, even as disruptions continue.
5. Luggage Tips: Ensure your luggage is tagged with a destination airport, and double-check the weight and size limits for alternative flights. With rerouted and rescheduled flights, it’s essential to stay organized to avoid last-minute baggage fees.

Airport Updates: How to Navigate During Heightened Tensions

Many major airports in the UAE and Qatar are experiencing high volumes of traffic due to flight cancellations and the limited number of available flights. Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the busiest airports globally, has increased security procedures to ensure smooth operations during the ongoing conflict. Passengers should expect longer wait times at check-in counters and security checkpoints, especially on international flights. Travelers are advised to arrive earlier than usual and allow extra time for customs and immigration procedures.

Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Qatar remains closed for regular commercial flights. However, relief and evacuation flights are still operating on a limited basis. For travelers stranded in Doha, Qatar Airways is offering support through designated hotel partners, where airline representatives are available to assist with travel arrangements.

Security Procedures and Travel Advisory Changes

With the current state of heightened tension in the Middle East, passengers traveling through airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha should expect additional security measures. These measures are in place not only for the safety of travelers but also to streamline the process of handling the influx of displaced passengers. Passengers may experience enhanced screening and additional documentation checks, especially when flying to destinations outside the region.

Governments in the United States, the United Kingdom, and several European countries have issued updated travel advisories warning against all non-essential travel to regions directly affected by the conflict. Travelers are encouraged to check for the latest safety recommendations from their home country’s foreign office before booking trips to the Middle East.

Impact on Other Travel-Related Sectors

While the primary impact has been on the airline and hospitality industries, the broader travel-related sector is also feeling the effects of the conflict. Car rental companies, tour operators, and cruise lines with itineraries in the Middle East are adjusting their services. Several cruise lines have suspended trips to the region, and car rental agencies are offering discounts to encourage tourism in nearby unaffected regions, such as Southeast Asia and Turkey.

Alternative Destinations for Middle East Travelers

For travelers who had planned vacations to the Middle East and are now reconsidering their options, there are several alternative destinations worth considering. The Southeast Asia region remains a strong option for travelers, with countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia offering robust tourism experiences, luxury accommodations, and vibrant cultural attractions.

For those who still wish to visit the Gulf region but are wary of the ongoing geopolitical situation, Oman and Jordan offer safe and culturally rich experiences, with flights remaining operational and few security concerns.

Navigating the Chaos

While the situation in the Middle East is fluid and rapidly changing, the most important step for travelers is to stay informed. Airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai continue to provide essential updates on their operations, but travelers must also remain adaptable. Flight schedules are volatile, and cancellations are likely to continue, making it essential to check flight status frequently.

For those traveling to the UAE, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to reconsider non-essential trips, especially as safety concerns and travel disruptions remain a significant risk. The hospitality sector is bracing for financial losses, but with strategic planning and flexible travel arrangements, many travelers will still be able to navigate the complexities of the situation and reach their destinations with minimal inconvenience.

Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai have suspended flights due to escalating tensions between Israel, the US, and Iran, causing major disruptions in global travel. This crisis has deeply impacted the aviation and hospitality industries in the UAE, Qatar, and beyond.

For travelers still seeking adventure in the Middle East, or those with upcoming trips to the region, following these tips will help minimize disruptions and ensure a smoother travel experience amid the ongoing conflict.

Google has started adding a new warning in the Google Play Store to help Android users avoid apps that may drain their phone battery quickly. This new feature tells users if an app might use more battery than normal before they download it.

From March 2026, some app pages in the Play Store will show a message that says the app may use more battery than expected because of high background activity. This means the app keeps running in the background and may use power even when you are not using it.

Several smartphone users face battery issues because some apps continue working in the background. These apps can wake up the phone again and again, which stops the device from saving power. Because of this, the battery may run out faster.

Google wants to solve this problem and improve the experience for Android users. To do this, the company has created a new system that checks how often an app wakes up a device. This activity is measured using wake locks. If an app uses too many wake locks, it can cause high battery usage.

Image via Google

Google is also giving developers new tools and information. This will help them see how their apps use battery power. Developers can then fix problems and make their apps more efficient.

Apps that cross the limit for high battery use may get a warning on their Play Store page. These apps may also appear less often in recommendations or other discovery sections in the store.

However, some apps will not get this warning if their background activity is important. For example, music streaming apps, location-based apps, or apps that download files when a user asks them to may still run in the background.

Google says the feature will roll out slowly over the next few weeks, so more users can see these warnings.

The post Google Play Store now alerts users about apps that may drain battery appeared first on Sammy Fans.

The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion, unveiled earlier this week, made its debut today in India. We already got our hands on the Edge 70 Fusion's European version at MWC, so let's take a closer look at the Edge 70 Fusion's Indian model now. The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion's Indian model comes in a retail box made of recycled materials, but it also has the FIFA World Cup 2026 logo on it as Motorola is the official smartphone partner for the FIFA World Cup this year. [#InlinePriceWidget,14432,1#] The Indian Motorola Edge 70 Fusion's retail package includes a charging cable, a SIM ejector tool, some...

The Ford Puma holds a record 3.6% of the UK market in February.

The UK new car market is up by a solid 7.2% year-on-year in February to 90,100 units. This is the strongest February volume in 22 years: since the 91,460 sales of February 2004. The year-to-date tally is up 4.8% to 234,227. Encouragingly, private sales surge 17.6% to 35,227 and 39.1% share vs. 35.6% in February 2025, while fleet sales only edge up 1.8% to 53,506 and 59.4% share vs. 62.5% a year ago. Business sales are down -12.7% to 1,367 and 1.5% share vs. 1.9%. Year-to-date, private sales are up 9.4% to 87,624 and 37.4% share vs. 35.8% over the first two months of 2025, fleet sales are up 1.7% to 141,777 and 60.5% share vs. 62.4% and business sales up 22.8% to 4,826 and 2.1% share vs. 1.8%.

Looking at sales by fuel type, petrol is up 5.2% to 41,935 units, diesel is off -3.8% to 4,080, HEV up 3.3% to 11,807 and PHEV up 43.5% to 10,438 and 11.6% share vs. 8.7% a year ago. BEV sales are up just 2.8% to 21,840 and 24.2% share vs. 25.3% in February 2025. This is the second straight month that BEVs lose share year-on-year. Year-to-date, petrol edges up 0.7% to 110,692, diesel is off -7.2% to 11,942, HEV up 4.2% to 31,104 and PHEV up 45.9% to 28,995 and 12.4% share vs. 8.9% over the first two months of 2025. BEVs are up just 1.2% to 51,494 and 22% share vs. 22.8% last year.

Source: SMMT

Volkswagen (-11.5%) struggles year-on-year but remains the favourite car brand in the country with 7.9% share. Ford (+36.6%) rallies back up to 2nd place with 6.7% of the market, its best performance since last August. BMW (-2.1%) for its part repeats at #3 ahead of Mercedes (+33.9%) and Audi (+17.2%), the three German premium carmakers all fitting within a hundred sales. Skoda (+17.3%) and Vauxhall (+16.1%) also impress, while further down BYD (+83%), Jaecoo (+179.7%), Citroen (+82.8%), Omoda (+147.8%) and Suzuki (+77.6%) stand out. Tesla is off -37.1%.

Over in the models charts, the Ford Puma (+119.6%) more than doubles its sales year-on-year to reclaim the top spot it has held over the past three years, both for the month and YTD. The nameplate even smashes its UK share record to 3.6%, its previous best being 3.2% hit in April 2024, November 2025 and December 2025. The Kia Sportage (+45.4%) is also in outstanding shape at #2, while last year’s leader the Mini Cooper (-11.9%) ends the month at #3. The Tesla Model 3 (-20.4%) reappears at #4 with the Jaecoo 7 confirming its stunning success in the UK at #5, the model’s 7th straight monthly Top 10 finish.

Previous month: UK January 2026: Jaecoo 7 up to #2

One year ago: UK February 2025: Mini Cooper best-seller

Full February 2026 Top 52 All brands and Top 10 models below.

UK February 2026 – brands:

UK February 2026 – models:

Source: SMMT

A Milli Kadın Futbol Takımı, yarın deplasmanda Kuzey İrlanda ile karşılaşacak.

A Milli Kadın Futbol Takımı, 2027 FIFA Dünya Kupası Avrupa Elemeleri B Ligi 2. Grup'taki ikinci maçında yarın deplasmanda Kuzey İrlanda ile mücadele edecek.

Mourneview Park Stadı'nda TSİ 22.00'de başlayacak müsabakayı, Avusturyalı hakem Olivia Tschon yönetecek. Mücadele, TRT Tabii Spor 6 kanalından yayınlanacak.

Dünya Kupası elemelerinde B Ligi 2. Grup'ta Türkiye ve Kuzey İrlanda'nın yanı sıra Malta ve İsviçre de yer alıyor.

Ay-yıldızlılar, gruptaki ilk maçında konuk ettiği Malta'yı 3-0 yendi.

Amerikan Basketbol Ligi'nde (NBA) Houston Rockets ile Golden State Warriors karşılaştı. Rockets, Alperen Şengün'ün 17 sayı attığı maçta Warriors'a 115-113 yenildi.

Amerikan Basketbol Ligi'nde (NBA) Houston Rockets, milli oyuncu Alperen Şengün'ün 17 sayı attığı maçta uzatma sonunda ağırladığı Golden State Warriors'a 115-113 mağlup oldu.

Toyota Center'da oynanan karşılaşmada sezonun 23. mağlubiyetini yaşayan Rockets'ta Alperen Şengün, 17 sayı, 7 asist ve 7 ribauntla oynadı.

Ev sahibi ekipte Reed Sheppard 30, Kevin Durant 23 sayı kaydederken Amen Thompson 18 sayı, 10 ribauntla "double-double" yaptı.

Bu sezonki 32. galibiyetini alan Warriors'ta Brandin Podziemski, 26 sayıyla takımının en skorer ismi oldu.

Konuk ekipte De'Anthony Melton 23, Al Horford 17 ve Gui Santos ise 14 sayıyla maçı tamamladı.

Türkiye Futbol Federasyonu futbolda yeni haftanın fikstürünü duyurdu.

Futbolda Trendyol Süper Lig'de 25, Trendyol 1. Lig'de 29, Nesine 2. Lig Kırmızı Grup'ta 27, Beyaz Grup'ta 29, Nesine 3. Lig'de ise 24. hafta maçları yapılacak.

Türkiye Futbol Federasyonunun açıklamasına göre liglerde haftanın programı şöyle:

Trendyol Süper Lig

Yarın:

16.00 RAMS Başakşehir-Göztepe (Başakşehir Fatih Terim)

20.00 Beşiktaş-Galatasaray (Tüpraş)

8 Mart Pazar:

13.30 Çaykur Rizespor-Hesap.com Antalyaspor (Çaykur Didi)

13.30 Gaziantep FK-Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük (Gaziantep)

16.00 TÜMOSAN Konyaspor-Kasımpaşa (MEDAŞ Konya Büyükşehir)

20.00 Fenerbahçe-Samsunspor (Chobani)

9 Mart Pazartesi:

16.00 ikas Eyüpspor-Kocaelispor (Recep Tayyip Erdoğan)

20.00 Zecorner Kayserispor-Trabzonspor (RHG Enertürk Enerji)

20.00 Corendon Alanyaspor-Natura Dünyası Gençlerbirliği (Alanya Oba)

Trendyol 1. Lig

Bugün:

16.00 SMS Grup Sarıyer-Eminevim Ümraniyespor (Yusuf Ziya Öniş)

20.00 Sakaryaspor-Adana Demirspor (Yeni Sakarya Atatürk)

20.00 Atko Grup Pendikspor-İmaj Altyapı Vanspor FK (Pendik)

Yarın:

13.30 Erzurumspor FK-Manisa FK (Erzurum Kazım Karabekir)

13.30 Özbelsan Sivasspor-Emre Gökdemir İnşaat Ankara Keçiörengücü (BG Grup 4 Eylül)

16.00 Arca Çorum FK-Atakaş Hatayspor (Çorum Şehir)

16.00 Bandırmaspor-İstanbulspor (Bandırma 17 Eylül)

20.00 Amed Sportif Faaliyetler-Serikspor (Diyarbakır)

8 Mart Pazar:

16.00 Boluspor-Alagöz Holding Iğdır FK (Bolu Atatürk)

20.00 Sipay Bodrum FK-Esenler Erokspor (Bodrum İlçe)

Nesine 2. Lig

- Kırmızı Grup

8 Mart Pazar:

13.00 Isbaş Isparta 32 Spor-Mardin 1969 Spor (Isparta Atatürk)

13.30 Kuzeyboru 68 Aksaray Belediyespor-Akedaş Kahramanmaraş İstiklalspor (Dağılgan)

13.30 Muşspor-Bursaspor (Muş Şehir)

15.00 Adanaspor-Ankara Demirspor (Yeni Adana)

15.30 Menemen FK-Güzide Gebzespor (Menemen İlçe)

15.30 Arkent Aranvutköy Belediyesi Futbol-Somaspor (Bolluca)

15.30 Granny's Waffles Kırklarelispor-Fethiyespor (Kırklareli Atatürk)

Beyaz Grup

Bugün:

15.30 Bucaspor 1928-Merkür Jet Erbaaspor (Yeni Buca)

15.30 Beykoz Anadoluspor-İskenderunspor (Maltepe Hasan Polat)

Yarın:

13.30 GMG Kastamonuspor-Seza Çimento Elazığspor (Gazi)

13.30 Kızılkaya Tarım Şanlıurfaspor-MKE Ankaragücü (11 Nisan)

15.30 Karacabey Belediyespor-Altınordu (Karacabey M. Fehmi Gerçeker)

15.30 Kepezspor-Sultan Su İnegölspor (Kepez Hasan Doğan)

15.30 Sincan Belediyesi Ankaraspor-Anagold 24Erzincanspor (Sincan 15 Temmuz Milli Birlik)

15.30 Muğlaspor-Adana 01 FK (Muğla Atatürk)

8 Mart Pazar:

13.00 Karaman FK-Beyoğlu Yeni Çarşı Spor Faaliyetleri (Yeni Karaman)

Nesine 3. Lig

- 1. Grup

Yarın:

13.30 Bulvarspor-Yalova FK 77 (Alemdağ)

15.30 Kestel Çilekspor-Küçükçekmece Sinopspor (Minareli Çavuş)

15.30 İnkılap Futbol-Beykoz İshaklı Spor Faaliyetleri (Ömerli)

15.30 Çorluspor 1947-Galata Spor (General Basri Saran)

8 Mart Pazar:

15.00 Karalar İnşaat Etimesgutspor-İnegöl Kafkasspor (Etimesgut Belediyesi Atatürk)

15.30 Polatlı 1926 Spor-Bursa Yıldırımspor (Polatlı İlçe)

15.30 Bursa Nilüfer Futbol-Astor Enerji Çankayaspor (İbrahim Yazıcı Nilüfer)

15.30 Silivrispor-Edirnespor (Silivri Müjdat Gürsu)

2. Grup

Yarın:

13.30 Ejderoğlu Kırşehir Futbol-Eti Gübre Mazıdağı Fosfatspor (Kırşehir Ahi)

13.30 12 Bingölspor-Erciyes 38 Futbol (Bingöl Şehir)

13.30 Kırıkkale FK-Diyarbekirspor (Başpınar)

13.30 Malatya Yeşilyurtspor-Niğde Belediyespor (Yeni Malatya)

13.30 Cinegold Ağrı 1970 Spor-Hacettepe AŞ Türk Metal 1963 Spor (Vali Lütfi Yiğenoğlu)

8 Mart Pazar:

13.30 Suvermez Kapadokyaspor-Karpedo Dondurma Kahramanmaraşspor (Suvermez Köyü Fikret Tunca Spor Kompleksi Çim Saha)

13.30 Karaköprü Belediyespor-Mdgrup Osmaniyespor (Faruk Çelik)

13.30 Kilis 1984-Silifke Belediyespor (7 Aralık)

3. Grup

Yarın:

13.30 Pazarspor-Giresunspor (Pazar İlçe)

13.30 Orduspor 1967-Karabük İdmanyurduspor (19 Eylül)

8 Mart Pazar:

13.30 Fatsa Belediyespor-52 Orduspor (Fatsa İlçe)

13.30 Artvin Hopaspor-Tokat Belediyespor (Arhavi İlçe)

13.30 Karadeniz Ereğli Belediyespor-Düzce Cam Düzcespor (Şehit Vefa Karakurdu)

13.30 Sebat Gençlikspor-TCH Group Zonguldakspor (Ortahisar Yavuz Selim)

13.30 1926 Bulancakspor-Amasyaspor (Bulancak İlçe)

13.30 Yozgat Belediyesi Bozokspor-Çayelispor (Yozgat Şehir)

4. Grup

Yarın:

14.00 Oktaş Uşakspor-Karşıyaka (Uşak 1 Eylül)

15.30 Ayvalıkgücü Belediyespor-Tire 2021 FK (Ayvalık Hüsnü Uğural)

8 Mart Pazar:

15.30 Eskişehirspor-Bornova 1877 Sportif Yatırımlar (Prof. Dr. Fethi Heper)

15.30 Denizli İdmanyurdu-Söke 1970 Spor (Denizli Atatürk)

15.30 Altay-Kütahyaspor (Alsancak Mustafa Denizli)

15.30 Nazillispor-Nev Sağlık Grubu Balıkesirspor (Pamukören)

15.30 İzmir Çoruhlu FK-Alanya 1221 Futbol (Bornova Aziz Kocaoğlu)

15.30 Afyonspor-Eskişehir Anadolu Spor Faaliyetleri (Zafer)

Süper Lig'in 25.haftasında Lider Galatasaray, Beşiktaş deplasmanına çıkacak. Galatasaray'da mücadele öncesi eksik bulunmuyor.

Lider Galatasaray, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 25. haftasında yarın deplasmanda Beşiktaş ile karşılaşacak.

Tüpraş Stadı'nda oynanacak derbi, saat 20.00'de başlayacak. Müsabakada hakem Ozan Ergün düdük çalacak.

Süper Lig'de son 3 sezon şampiyonluk ipini önde göğüsleyen sarı-kırmızılı ekip, bu sezon da son 10 maça zirvede girdi. Ligde 24 müsabakada, 18 galibiyet, 4 beraberlik alan "Cimbom" 2 maçtan da puansız ayrıldı. Galatasaray, topladığı 58 puanla derbiye en yakın takipçisi Fenerbahçe'nin 4 puan önünde lider gidiyor.

Siyah-beyazlılar ise 24 mücadelede, 13 galibiyet, 7 beraberlik ve 4 yenilgiyle 46 puan elde etti. Beşiktaş, 25. hafta öncesinde 4. sırada yer alıyor.

İki takım arasında ligin ilk yarısında Galatasaray'ın ev sahipliğindeki derbi 1-1 berabere bitmişti.

Derbide tam kadro

Galatasaray, şampiyonluk yarışındaki kritik derbiye tam kadro çıkacak.

Sarı-kırmızılı takımda Beşiktaş derbisi öncesi sakat veya cezalı oyuncu bulunmuyor.

Ağrıları nedeniyle ligin 24. haftasındaki Corendon Alanyaspor müsabakasında forma giyemeyen Yunus Akgün ile Roland Sallai, teknik direktör Okan Buruk'un görev vermesi durumunda Dolmabahçe'de sahaya çıkabilecek.

Hafta içinde Ziraat Türkiye Kupası'nda yine Corendon Alanyaspor ile yapılan maçta birçok ilk 11 oyuncusunu dinlendiren Okan Buruk, elindeki geniş kadronun avantajını Beşiktaş derbisinde yaşayacak.

Abdülkerim ve Eren sınırda

Sarı-kırmızılı ekipte Abdülkerim Bardakcı ve Eren Elmalı, sarı kart ceza sınırında bulunuyor.

Bu sezon ligde üçer kez sarı kart gören iki futbolcu, yarınki derbide de kart görmeleri durumunda 26. haftadaki RAMS Başakşehir karşılaşmasında forma giyemeyecek.

Ligin en golcü takımı

Sarı-kırmızılı ekip, Süper Lig'deki 18 takım arasında en skorer olarak dikkati çekiyor.

Ligde çıktığı 24 müsabakada 58 kez fileleri havalandıran Galatasaray, en yakın takipçisi Fenerbahçe'den 4 gol fazla atarak zirvede yer aldı. Kalesinde 18 gol gören "Cimbom" bu alanda ise Göztepe'nin (16) ardından en az gol yiyen ikinci takım konumunda.

En büyük gol umudu Osimhen

Galatasaray'ın Nijeryalı santrforu Victor Osimhen, formda performansıyla takımını sırtlıyor.

Osimhen, sarı-kırmızılı formayla mücadele ettiği son 7 Süper Lig maçının 6'sında fileleri havalandırmayı başardı. 27 yaşındaki yıldız futbolcu, ligde toplamda 10 gole ulaştı.

Ön alan baskısı en büyük silahlarından

Sarı-kırmızılı ekibin ön alanda yaptığı baskı sonrasında bulduğu goller hücum planında önemli yer tutuyor.

Teknik direktör Okan Buruk, takımına ileride Victor Osimhen, Yunus Akgün, Barış Alper Yılmaz, Leroy Sane ve Noa Lang gibi futbolcularla rakip kaleci ve savunma oyuncularına şiddetli baskı yaptırıyor. Orta alanda Gabriel Sara, Lucas Torreira ve Mario Lemina da ileride baskıya geride alan kapatarak destek veriyor.

Bu baskılar sonrasında Süper Lig'de 11 gol bulan Galatasaray, Avrupa'nın 10 büyük liginde ön alanda kazandığı toplarla en çok gol atan ikinci takım konumunda bulunuyor.

Deplasmanda 8 puan kaybetti

Galatasaray, bu sezon kaybettiği 14 puanın 8'ini deplasmanda yaşadı.

Sarı-kırmızılı ekip, bu sezon 24 müsabakada alabileceği 72 puanın 58'ini elde etti. Geride kalan bölümde 4'ü beraberlik, 2'si mağlubiyet olmak üzere 14 puan kaybı yaşayan Okan Buruk'un öğrencileri, bunları 6'sını evinde, 8'ini rakip sahada bıraktı.

Sahasında 3 beraberlik gören "Cimbom" deplasmanda ise 1 beraberlik, 2 yenilgi yaşadı.

Son 2 derbinin büyük bölümünü eksik oynadı

Galatasaray, Süper Lig'de Beşiktaş ile yaptığı son 2 derbide kırmızı kart gördü.

Geçen sezonun ikinci yarısında Dolmabahçe'de yapılan derbide sarı-kırmızılı ekipte Przemyslaw Frankowski, 36. dakikada kırmızı kart görerek oyundan atıldı. Yaklaşık 1 saat 1 kişi eksik mücadele eden "Cimbom" sahadan 2-1 yenik ayrıldı.

Bu sezon RAMS Park'ta yapılan derbinin ise 34. dakikasında Davinson Sanchez kırmızı kart gördü. 10 kişi kaldığında 1-0 geride olan sarı-kırmızılı ekip, golü bularak derbiden 1-1 beraberlikle çıktı.

Hafta içinde Liverpool ile karşılaşacak

Galatasaray, Beşiktaş derbisinin ardından hafta içinde UEFA Şampiyonlar Ligi son 16 turu maçına çıkacak.

Ligde yarın şampiyonluk yarışında kritik Beşiktaş derbisinde mücadele edecek sarı-kırmızılı ekip, 10 Mart Salı günü iç sahada İngiliz temsilcisi Liverpool'u ağırlayacak. Sonrasında 14 Mart Cumartesi günü taraftarı önünde RAMS Başakşehir ile karşılaşacak "Cimbom" 18 Mart Çarşamba günü deplasmanda Liverpool ile rövanş maçını yapacak.