Basketbolda Yunanistan Kupası sahibini buldu. Olympiakos'u 79-68 yenen Ergin Ataman'ın başantrenörlüğünü yaptığı Panathinaikos kupanın sahibi oldu.

Basketbolda Yunanistan Kupası'nı, finalde Olympiakos'u 79-68 yenen Ergin Ataman'ın başantrenörlüğünü yaptığı Panathinaikos kazandı.

Heraklion Arena'daki maçın ilk periyodu 17-17'lik eşitlikle geçilirken ikinci çeyrekte 28 sayı bulan Panathinaikos soyunma odasına 45-29 önde gitti.

Üçüncü çeyrekte Olympiakos'un farkı kapatmasına izin vermeyen Cedi Osman'ın da formasını giydiği Panathinaikos, final periyoduna 69-51'lik skor avantajıyla girdi.

Son periyotta Olympiakos daha etkili oynasa da Panathinaikos, rakibini 79-68 mağlup ederek kupanın sahibi oldu.

Panathinaikos, Yunanistan Kupası'nı üst üste ikinci, toplamda ise 22. kez müzesine götürdü.

Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos kariyerindeki 4. kupasını kazandı.

En değerli oyuncu (MVP) ödülünü ise Panathinaikos'un 15 sayıyla oynayan ABD'li basketbolcusu Nigel Hayes-Davis aldı.

Galatasaray Konyaspor deplasmanından 2-0 mağlup ayrılırken iptal edilen gol için maç sonu teknik direktör Okan Buruk'tan tepki geldi. Tecrübeli teknik adamın kulübün gerekli girişimi yapacağını söyleyerek TFF'ye bir çıkarma olacağının da sinyalini vermiş oldu.

Galatasaray'da 2-0'lık Konyaspor yenilgisinin faturası ağır oldu. En yakın rakibi Fenerbahçe'ye zirve yarışında büyük yara aldı. Öte yandan maç sonunda kötü oyun oynadıklarını belirten teknik direktör Okan Buruk hakem konusunda da sert ifadeler kullandı. Galatasaray'ın ofsayt nedeniyle iptal edilen golü sonrası harekete geçeceğinin sinyalini verdi. MHK Başkanı Ferhat Gündoğdu'yu da eleştirdi.

Galatasaray yönetiminin önümüzdeki günlerde TFF binasını hakem konusunda ziyaret etmesi bekleniyor. Yabancı hakem konusu da orada açılacak.

İşte Okan Buruk'u hakem konusundaki açıklamaları:

-TFF başkanımızın açıklaması var, 'Bu tür hataları asla affetmeyeceğim' diye. Kendisini bu anlamda, bu maçtaki verilmeyen gol için...

1990 yılında olsaydı bu gol, ofsayt nedeniyle iptal edilebilirdi. Şu an 2026'da, bu pozisyonda gol iptali sadece Türkiye'de olur. Yeni bir şeye imza attık. Hakemlerimizi tebrik ederim.

-Bugünkü VAR hakemini tanımıyorum. Nerede maç yönetti, neresinde maç yönetti, ismini bilmiyorum, hangi ligde maç yönetti. Bize de yabancı hakem. Bize yabancı bir VAR hakemi maçı yönetti. Hiçbirimizin tanımadığı, adını bilmediği bir hakem!

-Bu kadar önemli ligde ve yarışta aslında bu tecrübesiz hakemler atanabiliyor. MHK başkanının sorumluluğunda, kararları o veriyor. Her atamaya ve hakeme saygı duyuyoruz. Yabancı olup olmadığı önemli değil, iyi hakem olsun. Konyaspor'un da hakkı yenmiştir. Her takımın istediği iyi hakem olsun, pasaportu önemli değil. Gerçekten orayı kaldırabilecek, sorumlulukta, ağırlıkta bir hakem olsun demek istiyorum! VAR'a çağıran hakemin adını ben hiç duymadım. Kim bilmiyorum. Adını hiçbirimiz duymamıştır. Bu kritik maçta VAR hakemi olarak görev aldı.

-Kötü yönetimden sorumlu kişi MHK başkanıdır. Bu tür şeylere tabii ki saygı duyuyoruz ama Türk hakemlerine güvenelim, inanalım. Onlar da yürekli olsunlar. Kimse kimseye hakkının geçmesini istemiyor. Orayı hak edecek insanlar olsun, pasaportu önemli değil.

Konyaspor deplasmanından 2-0 mağlup ayrılan Galatasaray'dan maç sonu açıklama geldi.

Galatasaray, Konyaspor maçının ardından hakem ve VAR'a tepki gösterdi. Sarı kırmızılılar, "Galatasaray'ı bu oyunlarla durduramazsınız" mesajıyla bir açıklama yaptı.

VakıfBank Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 23. haftasındaki derbide sahasında Fenerbahçe Medicana'yı ağırladı. Derbide kazanan 3-1'lik skorla VakıfBank oldu.

VakıfBank Kadın Voleybol Takımı, Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 23. haftasındaki derbide sahasında Fenerbahçe Medicana'yı 3-1 yendi.

Salon: Vakıfbank Spor Sarayı

Hakemler: Caner Çildir, Yasin Çalışkan

VakıfBank: Ogbogu, Cansu Özbay, Markova, Zehra Güneş, Boskovic, Derya Cebecioğlu (Ayça Aykaç, Cazute, Sıla Çalışkan, Dangubic)

Fenerbahçe Medicana: Orro, Fedorovtseva, Korneluk, Melissa Vargas, Hande Baladın, Eda Erdem (Gizem Örge, Arelya Karasoy, Cristina, Aslı Kalaç, Bedart, Sude Hacımustafaoğlu)

Setler: 23-25, 25-22, 26-24, 25-21

Süre: 131 dakika (32, 30, 41, 28)

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. hafta maçında TÜMOSAN Konyaspor evinde Galatasaray'ı 2-0 mağlup etti. Maç sonu oyuncular ve teknik direktör Okan Buruk'tan iyi olmadıklarını belirten açıklamalar geldi.

Galatasaray bu akşam taraftarını büyük hayal kırıklığına uğrattı. Juventus'u 5-2 yenerek büyük sevinç yaşatan sarı-kırmızılılar büyük oynadıkları futbol ile akıllarda soru işareti bıraktı. Oyuncular ve teknik direktör Okan Buruk maç sonu yaptığı açıklamalarda iyi olmadıklarını söyledi.

Oyuncuların açıklamaları şöyle:

Gabriel Sara: Anlatması zor... Çarşamba çok iyi bir gündü. Rahatsızız bu durumdan. Sorumluluk almalı ve düzeltmeliyiz. Çarşamba ve cumartesi çok iyi maçlar çıkarıp, hatalardan ders almalı ve yolumuza galibiyetlerle devam etmeliyiz.

-Zor bir maç olacağını biliyorduk. Onlar daha çok istediler. Kazanmak istediler ve hak ettiler. Maç kendi kendini anlatıyor.

Uğurcan Çakır: Maça iyi başlamadık. İlk yarı çok top kaybı yaptık. Maça tam konsantre değildik. Konyaspor daha konsantre ve istekliydi. Tüm tepkileri bizden daha erken verdiler. Bugün kaybettik ama yapacak bir şey yok. Kafamızı kaldırıp devam edeceğiz. Avantaj kaybettik sadece. 11 maç kaldı, tüm maçları tek tek Juventus maçı konsantrasyonuyla oynayıp sezon sonunda şampiyon olmak istiyoruz. Konyaspor daha istekliydi bizden, onları tebrik ediyorum. Bizim de yapmamız gereken daha çok çalışmaya, böyle maçları önemsemeye devam etmek ve her maça ayrı ayrı konsantre olup galip gelmek.

OKAN BURUK'TAN AÇIKLAMA

Teknik direktör Okan Buruk da yaptığı açıklamalar ile iyi günlerinde olmadıklarını belirtti:

-Oyuncu değişiklikleri yaptık, dinlenmiş isimlerle başlamaya çalıştık. O verimi, o 'fresh'liği göremedik. Takım olarak iyi günümüzde değildik. Az ürettik.

"FUTBOL ADINA UTANÇ!"

-İkinci yarıda attığım golün iptalinden sonra... Nizami bir gol attık. Bu çok açık. Kim ne derse desin. Genel kanıda bu şekilde olacaktır. 90'larda belki ofsayt verirdi hakemler ama maalesef 2026'dayız. Bu gole ofsayt vermek, bu gol için VAR'a çağırmak büyük bir komedi. Bunu izleyip vermek büyük komedi. TFF başkanının bir açıklaması vardı, VAR'dan seyreden hakemler için, gerekli kararı kendisi alacaktır. MHK başkanı gerekli kararı alacaktır. Bu pozisyona ofsayt vermek futbol adına bir utançtır. Bu gece de bir utanç oldu.

"BU İPTAL SADECE TÜRKİYE'DE OLUR, TEBRİKLER"

-TFF başkanımızın açıklaması var, 'Bu tür hataları asla affetmeyeceğim' diye. Kendisini bu anlamda, bu maçtaki verilmeyen gol için...

1990 yılında olsaydı bu gol, ofsayt nedeniyle iptal edilebilirdi. Şu an 2026'da, bu pozisyonda gol iptali sadece Türkiye'de olur. Yeni bir şeye imza attık. Hakemlerimizi tebrik ederim.

"Fikstürde Beşiktaş, Trabzonspor, Göztepe deplasmanları var. Şampiyonluk yarışıyla ilgili nasıl bir mesaj vermek istersiniz?"

-Oyuncularımla maçtan sonra konuştum. Onlar istediği zaman, yüzde yüz odaklandıkları zaman... Birincisi onları her maça aynı şekilde hazırlamak benim işim. Performans vermiyorlarsa, konstantre olamıyorlarsa... Bir yandan çok fazla yeni oyuncu koyduk ki takımı yukarı çeksinler, yorgunları da yukarı çeksinler diye düşündük ama yapamadık. Bu da benim sorumluluğum. Bu oyuncular da aynı Şampiyonlar Ligi'ndeki atmosferi, tutkuyu yaratamıyorsa sorumlusu benim. Bunu yaratacağız, yaratan oyuncularla oynayacağız. Kaliteli bir kadroya sahibiz. Gireni çıkanı ayırt etmeksizin hepsi birbirinin eksiğini kapatmasını istiyorum. Takım olarak kötü oynadığımız bir gündü. Her maça aynı odaklanmamız gerekiyor.

"AJAX MAÇINDAN SONRA DA AYNISI OLDU"

-Benim dönemime bakarsak, 4. senem, özellikle İstanbul dışındaki maçları daha çok kazandık. Hep kazandık. Motivasyon eksikliği görmedik bu tip maçlarda. Dominant olan, erken bitiren bir takım olduk. Özellikle bunu Kocaeli deplasmanında da yaşadık. Ajax'ı 3-0 yenip geldik deplasmanda, aynı şeyi yaşadık. Böyle büyük başarılı maçlardan sonra bu tür maçları oynamak zor oluyor. Ben de bu yüzden değişiklik yaptım kadroda. Takıma moral motivasyon hareketlilik gelsin diye. Bazen olmuyor. Kötü başlayan maç kötü bitiyor. Bunu değiştirecek tek şey gol bulmaktı, bulduk ama hakem geçerli saymadı. Futbolun içerisinde bu var. 2 tane atsanız 2'sini de vermese hakem, Galatasaray iseniz tekrar kazanmak için daha fazlasını yapmak zorundasınız.

"Yabancı hakem ve yabancı VAR talep edecek misiniz?"

-Kulübümüz gerekli girişimi yapacaktır diye düşünüyorum.

"ADINI BİLMEDİĞİM, BİZE YABANCI VAR HAKEMİ"

-Bugünkü VAR hakemini tanımıyorum. Nerede maç yönetti, neresinde maç yönetti, ismini bilmiyorum, hangi ligde maç yönetti. Bize de yabancı hakem. Bize yabancı bir VAR hakemi maçı yönetti. Hiçbirimizin tanımadığı, adını bilmediği bir hakem!

"VAR HAKEMİNİN ADINI HİÇ DUYMADIM, KİM BİLMİYORUM"

-Bu kadar önemli ligde ve yarışta aslında bu tecrübesiz hakemler atanabiliyor. MHK başkanının sorumluluğunda, kararları o veriyor. Her atamaya ve hakeme saygı duyuyoruz. Yabancı olup olmadığı önemli değil, iyi hakem olsun. Konyaspor'un da hakkı yenmiştir. Her takımın istediği iyi hakem olsun, pasaportu önemli değil. Gerçekten orayı kaldırabilecek, sorumlulukta, ağırlıkta bir hakem olsun demek istiyorum! VAR'a çağıran hakemin adını ben hiç duymadım. Kim bilmiyorum. Adını hiçbirimiz duymamıştır. Bu kritik maçta VAR hakemi olarak görev aldı.

-Kötü yönetimden sorumlu kişi MHK başkanıdır. Bu tür şeylere tabii ki saygı duyuyoruz ama Türk hakemlerine güvenelim, inanalım. Onlar da yürekli olsunlar. Kimse kimseye hakkının geçmesini istemiyor. Orayı hak edecek insanlar olsun, pasaportu önemli değil.

Bu gün futbol üzrə Türkiyə çempionatında (Super Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 23-cü turunun növbəti oyunları keçirilib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ikinci oyun günündə üç qarşılaşma baş tutub.

“Eyüpspor” doğma meydanda “Gənclərbirliyi” üzərində qələbə qazanıb. Üç qolun qeydə alındığı “Alanyaspor” – “Başakşəhər” görüşü qonaqların qələbəsiylə yekunlaşıb. Səfərdə “Konyaspor”la qarşılaşmış lider “Qalatasaray” isə 2 cavabsız qolla məğlub olub.

23-cü turun qalan görüşləri fevralın 22-də və 23-də keçiriləcək.

Türkiyə, Super Liqa
23-cü tur
20 fevral

Rizəspor – Kocaelispor 2:0
Qollar: Mihaila, 13. S.Akaydın, 57.

21 fevral

Eyüpspor – Gənclərbirliyi 1:0
Qol: M.Altunbaş, 90+1.

Alanyaspor – Başakşəhər 1:2
Qol: Haderqyonay, 67 – Selke, 14. Şomurodov, 44-pen.

Konyaspor – Qalatasaray 2:0
Qollar: A.Demirbağ, 75. Kramer, 81.

22 fevral

14:30. Kayserispor – Antalyaspor
17:00. Qaziantep – Trabzonspor
21:00. Beşiktaş – Göztəpə
21:00. Karagümrük – Samsunspor

23 fevral

21:00. Fənərbağça – Kasımpaşa

Yunanəsilli avstraliyalı mütəxəssis Angelos Postekoqlu İngiltərə nəhəngi “Mançester Yunayted” barədə maraqlı açıqlaması ilə gündəm olub.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, o, Britaniya mətbuatına açıqlamasında çalışdırılması ən çətin klub haqda qənaətini paylaşıb.

Postekoqlun müvafiq klubun İngiltərə nəhəngi “Mançester Yunayted” olduğunu bildirib:

“Məşqçi ikən ildə 100 mətbuat toplanrısına tab gətirəcək, 10 oyunu qazanıb və yalnız 1-də məğlub olacaq – elə, bu bircə məğlubiyyətə görə də parça-tikə ediləcək elə bir adam gərəkdir”, deyə “Poç” vuğrulayıb.

Xatırladaq ki, “Mançester Yunayted”ə ötən mövsümdən rəhbərlik edən Ruben Amorim cari mövsümün gedişində istefaya göndərilib. Onu hazırda müvəqqəti olaraq Maykl Karrik əvəz edib. Mançester nəhəngi hazırda yeni baş məşqçi axtarışındadır. Son illərdə uğursuz zolaqdan çıxa bilməyən “qırmızı şeytanlar”ı növbəti mövsümdə kimin çalışdıracağı hələ də sual altındadır.

“Qalatasaray”ın hücumçusu Viktor Osimhen Türkiyə nəhənəginə qoşulmamışdn öncə, “Yuvnetus”a keçid imkanının olduğunu etiraf edib.

Arena.az nigeriyalı futbolçunun müvafiq açıqlamasını təqdim edir:

“Bəli, İtaliya A Seriyasının digər klubuna keçə bilərdim. “Qalatasaray”a keçid ərəfəsində Turin “Yuventus”u ilə bağlı seçimim vardı, onlar tərəfdən maraq vardı. Amma başa düşürdüm ki, “Napoli”nin prezidenti (Aurelio De Laurentis) məni digər italyan klubuna buraxmayacaq”, deyə Osimhen bildirib.

Xatırladaq ki, Viktor Osimhen “Altimit Straykers”in məzunudur. Hücumçu, karyerası ərzində “Volfsburq”, “Şarlerua”, “Lill”, “Napoli” və icarə əsasında “Qalatasaray”da çıxış edib.

“Qalatasaray” 2025-ci ilin yayında rekord məbləğ ödəyərək Osimhenin transfer hüquqlarını da alıb. Keçid Türkiyə nəhənginə 75 milyon avro məbləğ müqabilində başa gəlib. Nigeriya yığmasının hücumçusu Türkiyə klubunda illik 15 milyon avro maaş alır. Viktorun “Qalatasaray”la 2029-cu ilin iyun ayının sonuna qədər qüvvədə olacaq müqaviləsi var.

Osimhen cari mövsümdə “Qalatasaray”ın heyətində 23 oyuna 15 qol vurub, 5 məhsuldar ötürmə verib. Nigeriyalı hücumçunun “Qalatasaray”dakı ümumi göstəricisi isə belədir: 64 oyun, 52 qol, 13 assist.

Viktor Osimhen 2017-ci ilin iyun ayında debüt etdiyi Nigeriya yığmasının heyətində 52 oyuna 35 qol və 14 məhsuldar ötürmə ilə fərqlənib.

“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 27 yaşlı nigeriyalı mərkəz hücumçusunun transfer dəyərini 75 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.

Paolo Montero, former coach of the Juventus Next Gen team and caretaker manager of the senior squad, is terminating his contract to take over Mario Balotelli’s Al-Ittifaq.

According to multiple sources including Sky Sport Italia and La Gazzetta dello Sport, the negotiations are effectively down to the details and it will be made official within 48 hours.

Montero spent a big chunk of his playing career in Italy with Atalanta and Juventus, before returning to South America in 2005 and retiring in 2007.

Montero bond with Juventus

He came back to Juve as a coach for their youth academy in 2022, moving up to the Under-19 side.

When Max Allegri was sacked in May 2024, Montero took over as interim coach of the senior Juventus squad for the final two games of the season.

However, after taking the Next Gen job, the Uruguayan was fired in November 2024, just 15 games into the new season.

His contract is still valid, though, and must be terminated by mutual consent before he can sign on as the coach of Al-Ittifaq.

This will allow him to work with former Italy international Balotelli, who joined the same UAE club as a free agent last month at the age of 35.

Federico Dimarco and Henrikh Mkhitaryan joke about the Inter wing-back’s latest Man of the Match award, but are ‘a family’ to protect Alessandro Bastoni from jeering.

It looked on paper like a more comfortable victory than it really was, because they had to wait until the 75^th minute to break Lecce down.

Dimarco had the ball in the net earlier, but it was disallowed because Marcus Thuram’s shoulder was offside in the build-up.

The wing-back was involved in both goals anyway, his corner flicked on for the Henrikh Mkhitaryan half-volley, then a pure assist for the Manuel Akanji header again from the flag.

Dimarco and Mkhitaryan joke about Inter award

“It was a real sigh of relief to get the breakthrough, as we knew it was a difficult game, as Lecce are well-organised. After our long journey to Bodo, we left on Thursday evening, then had to set off again yesterday to travel here, it wasn’t easy,” Dimarco told DAZN Italia.

“This win gave a sense of consistency after beating Juventus, and that is what we needed to keep pushing at the top of the table.”

It means Dimarco makes history as the first Serie A defender to provide assists in five consecutive appearances since 2006-07, and receives another MVP trophy.

“I thought Mkhitaryan deserved the Man of the Match award really, he came on so well. I leave the awards to my kids, they like arranging them, but what really matters for me is the team.”

The Italian now has 14 assists in Serie A this season, comfortably more than any other player.

Standing next to him, Mkhitaryan joked that Dimarco “needs to get a new house to store all these awards.”

“It is usually Bastoni in that position, but seeing as he just ran and made a big challenge, he didn’t have the energy to go there, so I did it instead,” revealed Mkhitaryan.

Following a week of controversy over his simulation to get Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu sent off, Bastoni was jeered loudly by Lecce fans every time he touched the ball this evening. How did his Inter teammates help him deal with that?

“It’s in the past now, we have to focus on the present. Bastoni and everyone else has already talked about it too much, we just focus on our work,” insisted Dimarco.

Mkhitaryan also had words of advice for the Italy international.

“We are a family, we support each other through thick and thin, but that is in the past now and we move on.”

Cristian Chivu backs Alessandro Bastoni against Lecce boo boys, reveals when Denzel Dumfries returns for Inter, and insists the Bodo/Glimt Champions League play-off is ‘wide open.’

The Nerazzurri remain unstoppable in Serie A, as this was their ninth consecutive away victory, and their 14^th win in the last 15 rounds.

They needed until the 75^th minute to break Lecce down at the Stadio Via del Mare, as the earlier Federico Dimarco goal was disallowed for Marcus Thuram’s tight offside position.

However, Dimarco’s corner was flicked on for a Henrikh Mkhitaryan goal, then another set play was nodded in by Manuel Akanji.

Chivu saw positive Inter and has European hope

“We wanted to make the most of the set plays, as we took a lot of them today and it’s a pity we didn’t do them better in the first half,” Chivu told DAZN Italia.

“We’ve got players who know how to attack the space, but above all an extraordinary left foot from Fede, who knows how to put the ball in.”

Who had the better crossing foot, Chivu, Dimarco or Inter assistant Aleksandar Kolarov?

“His foot is much better than mine ever was. I can’t talk for Kolarov, he might be offended…”

Inter needed a response today, as it was their first match since the midweek Champions League play-off defeat to Bodo/Glimt.

The second leg is coming up on Tuesday, but they will be without top scorer and captain Lautaro Martinez, who is out for circa a month with a soleus strain suffered on the synthetic pitch in Norway.

“We are aware of the difficulties, that we have to earn everything on the pitch and can take nothing for granted,” added Chivu.

“Now we have the second leg at home on Tuesday, we must be the best version of ourselves, because the qualification is still wide open. Nothing is decided yet.”

Bastoni was jeered loudly at every touch by the crowd in Lecce this evening, as the blowback continues from the incident where he got Pierre Kalulu of Juventus sent off.

“It’s over as far as I am concerned. I appreciate the professionalism of this defender and man, who understood his error, apologised for what happened, and is well aware that the team comes first. It’s done and dusted for me,” assured Chivu.

It was put to the coach that Marcus Thuram was struggling a little to be impactful today, in the absence of injured Lautaro Martinez.

“I have 24 marvellous players who all try to give their contribution. I liked Marcus today, he ran a lot, played with his back to goal, holding up the ball well. Davide Frattesi also had a great game, they are all involved, focused, keeping our feet on the ground and giving our contribution to the team.”

Hakan Calhanoglu and Nicolò Barella were suspended today, but the good news from the treatment table is for Denzel Dumfries, who had ankle surgery in November.

“Denzel has done some things with us in recent weeks for training, not this week because we were travelling for most of it. Denzel will officially be with the rest of the team from Monday, and I think Hakan Calhanoglu will be too.”

Thomas Frank has been linked with a move to Crystal Palace in recent weeks.

Oliver Glasner is expected to depart soon, and the Eagles will need to bring a quality replacement. It will be interesting to see if they are willing to give the job to the former Tottenham manager.

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The Danish manager was recently sacked after a run of poor results with Tottenham. Despite the poor spell with the North London club, he has shown his quality in the Premier League with Brentford, and he could prove to be a quality acquisition for the Eagles.

Frank has previously been vocal about his admiration for Crystal Palace. During his time at Brentford, he showered praise on the Eagles for their consistency despite limited resources and how difficult it is to face them, especially at Selhurst Park.

Frank said on Palace in 2021 via Sportsmole: “I need to praise Crystal Palace because they have been in the Premier League for the last eight years and have been very consistent in everything they do. They have a low budget and constantly produce good performances in the last eight years. It is very impressive what they have achieved.

“It is going to be very difficult. Selhurst Park is one of the most difficult places to go in the Premier League. They will be on top of us from the first minute and a very strong counter-attacking team.”

The opportunity to manage Crystal Palace will be quite exciting for Thomas Frank. They have been a consistent performer in the Premier League, and they have quality players at their disposal. It would be a great platform for the former Tottenham manager to prove his worth in the top flight once again. He will be desperate to get his managerial career back on track, and Palace could give him the opportunity he needs.

The post “They have a low budget”: Thomas Frank comments on Palace resurface amid manager links appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Aston Villa are looking to improve the defensive unit with the signing of Ruud Nijstad from FC Twente. 

The 18-year-old central defender is highly rated across Europe, and multiple clubs are keen on securing his signature. Several Premier League clubs are monitoring his development, and the Spanish champions Barcelona are also interested in him. The report has likened the young defender to a “modern-day Gerard Pique”.

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According to a report from SportsBoom, he has attracted the attention of Aston Villa, and they are hoping to get the deal done in the summer. They need more quality in the defensive unit, and the 18-year-old would be a solid long-term acquisition for them. Tyrone Mings is expected to depart in the summer, and they will need to replace them. Signing the talented young defender would be a wise decision. He could be a quality long-term investment for them, and he could develop into a key player with the right guidance.

The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be quite exciting for the 18-year-old. It would be a huge step up in his career, and he will look to prove himself at the highest level.

Nijstad has plenty of options ahead of him, and it will be interesting to see if he is willing to join the West Midlands club. He needs to carefully choose his next destination. He should join a club that offers regular opportunities. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not benefit him. Aston Villa might be able to provide him with the platform he needs. They have a quality team and a top-quality manager like Unai Emery. The Spaniard could play a key role in his development.

The post Report: Aston Villa join intense race to sign “modern-day Gerard Pique” appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Leeds United will be up against Aston Villa in their next Premier League match, and it will be interesting to see if they can pick up a morale-boosting victory.

They are fighting for survival in the Premier League, and they have impressed in recent weeks. They are up to 15th in the league table, six points clear of the drop zone. They will look to pull further clear of the bottom three with a positive result here.

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Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has now predicted that it will be a difficult outing for Leeds United against Aston Villa. He believes that the West Midlands club is not performing at the highest level, but they have managed to grind out results. He also believes that Leeds could be dragged into the relegation battle once again, especially if West Ham United can win their upcoming match.

He told Sportskeeda: “Aston Villa are not playing their best football at the moment. But they are still winning games, which is all they need to do at this stage of the season. This is a big game coming up for them.

“Leeds United have been amazing in recent weeks. 10 weeks ago, we would have had them as favourites to get relegated. But they are now six points clear of West Ham in 18th and have both Tottenham and Nottingham Forest below them.

“I believe Leeds are far from calling themselves safe, though. This is a big weekend in the relegation battle. If West Ham get a win at Bournemouth, I expect Leeds and a few other clubs to be dragged back into the battle to avoid the drop.”

It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Leeds have been quite impressive in recent weeks, and they will look to build on that. They have made themselves difficult to beat. A positive result against Aston Villa could give them a huge confidence boost.

Meanwhile, the West Midlands club is pushing for Champions League qualification, and they will be desperate for a win as well. It remains to be seen who comes out on top.

The post Paul Merson predicts relegation twist for ‘amazing’ Leeds ahead of Aston Villa clash appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Thomas Frank was recently sacked by Tottenham Hotspur after a disappointing run of results, and he has been backed to take over at Crystal Palace. 

Oliver Glasner is expected to leave the club at the end of the season, and Crystal Palace will need to bring in a quality replacement. It will be interesting to see if they are willing to appoint the Danish manager as their next boss.

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Despite the poor spell with Tottenham, Frank has previously shown his quality in the Premier League with Brentford, and there is no doubt that he could be a quality acquisition for the Eagles. It remains to be seen whether the London club is willing to give him a chance.

Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan has responded to suggestions that Frank could take over at Crystal Palace.

Jordan said on talkSPORT: “Yeah, possibly. A Palace job might be a reasonable job, but Palace fans might say, ‘You catapulted Tottenham into a relegation battle, we don’t want any of that.’

“But there must be a raft of loads of other reasons behind it. But Thomas Frank’s next opportunity will be a lesser club.”

Frank will be desperate to get his career back on track. He is a quality manager, and he will look to prove his worth in the Premier League once again. It remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace is prepared to give him the chance to redeem himself. They have a quality team, and Frank might be able to bring out the best in them.

Glasner has done a tremendous job at the London club, helping them win the FA Cup and the Community Shield recently. It will be a difficult act to follow, but Frank could be a good appointment for them.

The post Thomas Frank linked with Premier League return with another London club appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Italian international Antonio Cassano has taken a swipe at multiple Italian internationals, including the Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. 

In an interview with Calciomercato, the former Italian international has claimed that the team needs more quality, and Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma is the only elite player in the team.

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He went on to explain that Tonali is a workhorse and the Italian national team needs more players with genuine quality. Cassano may be trying to make the point that the Italian national team is now lacking technically gifted players compared to the past.

“The only champion is Donnarumma. Pio Esposito? He’s twenty years old and we consider him a rookie: Totti and I made our debuts at seventeen.

“He should do athletics. Tonali plays in the Premier League and never gets it. He runs and runs… he should do athletics. He and Barella are poor. Barella used to run, but now he doesn’t. We need quality.”

Tonali has been a key player for Newcastle since joining the club. He has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet, and he has done well in the Premier League for them. His work rate and defensive contribution have been invaluable for the English club.

It will be interesting to see if he can silence the critics with his performance for the Italian national team as well. He is entering the peak years of his career, and he will look to play his best football in the coming seasons.

Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see if Italy can secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Azzurri will face Northern Ireland in the play-offs before a potential final against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tonali will have the opportunity to guide his country to the mega event with strong performances in the upcoming matches.

The post Newcastle star brutally slammed by national team hero, urged to switch careers appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liam Rosenior said Chelsea have “set fire to four points in two games” after their 1-1 draw with Burnley in the Premier League on Saturday. Chelsea took a fourth-minute lead through Joao Pedro but failed to build on that, with Burnley defending well and then pushing forward after Wesley Fofana received a second yellow card […]

The post Chelsea have set fire to four points in two games – Rosenior appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Chelsea have set fire to four points in two games – Rosenior appeared first on Soccer News.

Jurgen Klopp insisted none of the success he achieved at Liverpool would have been possible without James Milner, who on Saturday set a new all-time Premier League appearances record. Milner made his 654th appearance as Brighton secured a 2-0 victory over Brentford, surpassing Gareth Barry’s tally of 653 in the process. The 40-year-old made his […]

The post Liverpool´s success would have been completely impossible without Milner, claims Klopp appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Liverpool´s success would have been completely impossible without Milner, claims Klopp appeared first on Soccer News.

Burnley boosted their Premier League survival hopes as Zian Flemming’s stoppage-time header secured a 1-1 draw against 10-man Chelsea on Saturday. Despite falling behind early, Burnley defended resolutely thereafter and were able to snatch a point after Wesley Fofana was shown a second yellow card. Joao Pedro bundled home Pedro Neto’s delivery in the fourth […]

The post Chelsea 1-1 Burnley: Flemming snatches late draw against 10-man hosts appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Chelsea 1-1 Burnley: Flemming snatches late draw against 10-man hosts appeared first on Soccer News.

Sony hasn't officially announced the PlayStation 6 yet, but that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from churning out an increasingly steady stream of leaks, insider reports, and solid hints from the company itself. With the PlayStation 5 well into the latter half of its lifecycle and the PS5 Pro already on shelves, the attention of hardcore gamers is increasingly turning toward whatever comes next. Here is everything we know so far about the PlayStation 6, from its release window and hardware to pricing, design, and the possibility of an entirely new PlayStation handheld launching alongside it. Read this article with […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/roundup/playstation-6-everything-we-know-release-date-specs-price-games/

The crypto market experienced a historic market crash in October that derailed the uptrend and caused investor sentiment to plummet.

The tariffs are just taxes on American businesses and consumers, while providing no benefit to the economy, critics of Trump's policies say.

A recent study published in the journal Deviant Behavior reveals that people who endure negative treatment are more likely to express an intention to commit future crimes, even when they do not consciously recognize their mistreatment. Independent observers can identify this unseen adversity, showing that hidden emotional burdens can shape human actions. These unacknowledged experiences carry weight, altering behavior beneath the surface of conscious thought.

Criminologists study how hardship influences human behavior to better understand the root causes of crime. According to a prominent framework called general strain theory, experiencing aversive events causes negative emotions. These emotions, particularly anger, can prompt individuals to engage in rule-breaking or illegal activities as a way to cope with their distress.

In this theoretical context, a strain is simply a negative experience, such as being treated poorly by others or failing to achieve a personal goal. Historically, researchers measure this hardship by asking individuals to report the negative events in their own lives. This self-reported measurement captures what academics call perceived strain, representing the individual’s own understanding of their reality.

Relying entirely on self-reporting presents a specific challenge in behavioral research. Individuals do not always recognize or admit to the negative treatment they endure in their daily lives. A person might actively downplay a traumatic event because it is too painful to confront directly, altering their perception to protect their own self-image.

This intentional minimization is known as a controlled process. A victim might convince themselves that a hostile interaction was simply a misunderstanding, reducing the importance of the event to preserve their peace of mind. By altering how they evaluate the outcome, the individual avoids the immediate pain of the experience.

In other cases, individuals might process the negative social information automatically, completely outside of their conscious awareness. Because the human brain receives a vast amount of sensory information at any given moment, people selectively attend to certain details while ignoring others. This means that a person might be the victim of hostility but fail to consciously register the attack as it happens.

Psychological research indicates that human memory and perception often involve implicit processes that operate below the threshold of awareness. A person can have a subliminally triggered emotional reaction that drives their judgment without any accompanying feelings. The hostile stimuli still enter the brain, but the mind does not translate that input into a recognized emotional state.

Because of these cognitive blind spots, self-reported surveys might miss a vast amount of hardship. Shelley Keith, a criminologist at the University of Memphis, wanted to capture these hidden experiences to see how they impact behavior. Keith and her colleague Heather L. Scheuerman sought to understand if an independent observer could identify negative treatment that a victim overlooks.

To investigate this dynamic, the researchers analyzed data from a specialized judicial initiative known as the restorative justice program in Australia. This program brought together offenders, victims, and community members to discuss the harm caused by specific crimes. The meetings were designed to repair relationships and help the offender make amends through open dialogue.

Despite the positive goals of the program, the discussions could also expose the offender to high levels of public stigma. The emotional weight of facing a victim and the broader community can result in negative treatment and social rejection. This intense environment provided a unique setting to evaluate different perceptions of hardship and social friction.

The study included 385 offenders who had committed offenses such as shoplifting, property crimes, or driving under the influence of alcohol. Trained staff members attended these meetings and silently evaluated how the offenders were treated by the group. These observers attempted to blend in and watch the proceedings from unobtrusive vantage points to avoid disrupting the process.

The independent observers rated the level of respect, forgiveness, and hostility directed at the offender. They noted whether the group treated the individual like an irredeemable criminal or made it clear that the offender could move past their mistakes. Because these observers were completely impartial, their ratings formed a reliable measure of observed strain.

Following the meetings, the offenders completed their own structured interviews regarding the same social interactions. They rated the exact same aspects of their treatment to establish a measure of perceived strain. This dual approach allowed the researchers to directly compare what the offender felt with what the neutral third party witnessed in the room.

The offenders also answered questions about their current emotional state, specifically focusing on how angry or bitter they felt after the meeting. Finally, they reported their projected offending, which serves as a metric for future intentions. Projected offending is a self-assessed measure of how likely the individual is to obey or break the law in the coming weeks and months.

When analyzing the data, Keith and her team discovered a split between the two types of measurement. As expected, when offenders personally perceived their treatment as negative, they reported higher levels of anger. This anger then acted as a psychological bridge, increasing the likelihood that the offender would project a return to criminal behavior.

The independent observations told a completely different story. The hardship recorded by the third-party observers did not predict whether the offender would report feeling angry. Offenders did not consciously register the anger associated with the negative treatment seen by the impartial staff members.

Despite this lack of conscious anger, the observed negative treatment still increased the offender’s projected likelihood of breaking the law. The external observations predicted future rule-breaking behavior independently of the offender’s own self-reported feelings. This suggests that individuals can be influenced by negative social interactions even when they do not consciously process the hostility.

The emotional toll of the event might operate beneath the surface, driving behavioral changes without triggering recognizable feelings of anger. People might suppress their emotions or simply lack the emotional awareness to accurately identify their own frustration. This unacknowledged psychological burden can impair decision-making and lead to deviant actions, such as substance abuse or physical aggression.

When individuals fail to attend to their emotions, they often experience increased cognitive load. This mental strain limits their ability to process information and make rational decisions, making aggressive responses more likely. In essence, the unacknowledged trauma demands an outlet, manifesting as antisocial behavior even when the person claims to feel fine.

While the study provides a new way to look at behavioral triggers, it does have certain limitations. The researchers relied on the participants’ stated intentions to commit future crimes rather than tracking their actual legal infractions over time. Intentions often correlate with real actions, but observing actual behavior would provide a stronger test of the underlying theory.

The study also evaluated individuals at a single point in time, which makes it difficult to definitively prove a cause and effect relationship. Additionally, the questions regarding the offenders’ emotions focused primarily on anger. Future investigations should measure other negative feelings, such as depression or anxiety, which might also influence criminal behavior.

The measurement tool used to assess strain was also somewhat limited in scope. Hardship encompasses a wide variety of experiences beyond social rejection or a lack of forgiveness from peers. Future studies should expand these measurement tools to include other types of adversity, such as losing something of value or failing to achieve specific positive goals.

Future investigations should follow participants over a longer period to see how hidden hardships influence actual criminal records. Researchers could also incorporate physiological measurements, such as tracking heart rate or stress hormones. These biological markers could help scientists identify unconscious emotional reactions to negative events as they happen in real time.

Keith and her team suggest conducting in-depth interviews with individuals who experience unacknowledged hardship. This qualitative approach could help clarify exactly why people minimize their trauma and how different coping mechanisms alter their path forward. Understanding these hidden processes could eventually help criminal justice professionals provide better support for individuals navigating the legal system.

If impartial observers can identify hidden distress, policymakers could deploy trained personnel to monitor high-stakes judicial settings. These independent observers could intervene to reduce the stigmatization of offenders during court proceedings or correctional meetings. By identifying unnoticed mistreatment early, these professionals could connect individuals with the support services they need to process their experiences constructively.

The study, “Is Ignorance Bliss: Examining the Association Between Observed and Perceived Strain, Anger, and Projected Offending,” was authored by Shelley Keith and Heather L. Scheuerman.

According to Caught Offside, several top clubs in the Premier League are keen on signing Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Mateus Mane this summer. Being almost certain to suffer relegation at this point, Wolves are apparently resigned to losing the 18-year-old attacker at the end of the season. Manchester United are interested and Arsenal are big admirers […]

The post Liverpool lead Mateus Mane race appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Liverpool lead Mateus Mane race appeared first on Soccer News.

Chelsea conceded a late equaliser to Burnley this afternoon, having been reduced to ten men earlier in the game, adding to two bad stats.

It was head in hands time at Stamford Bridge this afternoon, where an extra time goal cost ten man Chelsea two points.

Some shocking marking from a set piece allowed Zian Flemming to score just minutes before full time.

“More points squandered at Stamford Bridge by Chelsea,” said Chris Wise of the BBC at full time.

“It’s yet another red card too, and that’s become a theme of Chelsea’s season. It really costly one today as it completely changed the game.”

Wesley Fofana’s red was the SIXTH in the Premier League this season. No other team has more than four. We’ve had as many reds as home wins. In all competitions, the number has reached eight.

Chelsea’s reds leading to dropped points

Wesley Fofana gets his marching orders against Burnley. (Photo by Jasper Wax/Getty Images)

The red cards are also a large factor behind the other dreadful stat that’s haunting us this year – the dropped points. The Blues have dropped 17 this season at Stamford Bridge alone. That’s the most of any team in the league. It’s 19 in all competitions, with only relegation threatened West Ham beating us on 20.

With some tough games coming up, it’s not going to get any easier either. This was a brilliant chance to earn 3 points after a nice rest, and we’ve blown it.

In other news…

Cole Palmer played 74 minutes today and was heavily involved – but he wasn’t decisive in front of goal, when he usually makes the difference.

The late equaliser for Burnley came from a corner, and the marking was truly shocking despite the number of central defenders on the pitch.

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

Federico Dimarco was the driving force behind Inter Milan’s 2-0 victory at Lecce, picking up the Panini Player of the Match award after laying on two assists in what proved to be a harder test than the scoreline suggests.

The Italian wing-back spoke to DAZN at full time, via FCInterNews, reflecting on a victory that extends Inter’s lead at the top of Serie A while also providing much-needed momentum heading into Tuesday’s crucial Champions League second leg against Bodo/Glimt at San Siro.

Dimarco was characteristically humble throughout, even suggesting the individual award belonged to someone else entirely.

“It’s a huge sigh of relief,” he said of the second goal, which arrived on 75 minutes to settle Inter’s nerves.

“We knew this was a very demanding game against a well-organised team, and we were also coming off the trip to Norway. But it’s fine, it’s an important victory because it gives us continuity after the Juventus win. We needed it to extend our lead.”

Lecce 0-2 Inter Milan – Dimarco: ‘Mkhitaryan Deserved MOTM’

MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of FC Internazionale in action during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Dimarco was quick to deflect the individual recognition, pointing to a teammate’s impact from the bench.

“Mkhitaryan came on very well and he deserved it,” he said of the MOTM award.

When asked where he keeps his growing collection of prizes, the wing-back was endearingly straightforward.

“I give them to my kids, they sort them out. The important thing is the team and continuing to travel the way we are.”

On the whistles directed at Alessandro Bastoni during the match, Dimarco was keen to draw a line under the episode.

“Those are things of the past. Bastoni and those involved have said enough. We focus on doing our job.”

Recent reports from the Turkish press show that both Leeds United and Sunderland actively pursued Gabriel Sara during the winter transfer window. According to the outlet Fotospor, as relayed by Sport Witness, both English clubs held talks with the Brazilian midfielder. They also spoke with his current team, Galatasaray. The 26-year-old playmaker has proven himself in the Championship with Norwich City. However, he clearly isn’t in a rush to head back to the UK.

Turkish Media Exposes Transfer Interest From Leeds And Sunderland

The report suggests that Sara and the Istanbul giants felt the money offered by the Whites and the Black Cats wasn’t enough. They didn’t think the deals were worth a big mid-season move. So, the player chose to stay in the Süper Lig. His value keeps going up there after some big performances in European competitions.

The source didn’t give exact numbers for these bids. Still, the rejection shows a big gap in how the clubs value him. Sara moved to Turkey for about £15 million in 2024. Since then, he has become a key part of the Galatasaray midfield. His recent form has really boosted his reputation as a top talent. This includes a great goal and an assist in a 5-2 win over Juventus in the Champions League.

Another Turkish outlet, Sabah, as relayed by the same newspaper, claims that European scouts watched the Juventus game. His skill on the ball blew them away. Galatasaray now reportedly want over €30 million for the midfielder. Any future move by Sunderland or Leeds would take a massive financial effort. Such a deal would be much bigger than their previous winter offers.

Is a €30m Price Tag Actually a Good Deal for Sunderland?

ISTANBUL, TURKEY – DECEMBER 5: Gabriel Sara of Galatasaray looks on during the Trendyol Süper Lig match between Galatasaray SK and Samsunspor at Rams Park Stadium on December 5, 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

Looking at the situation, it’s clear that recruitment has changed for a club like Sunderland. This is especially true since they are fighting for a mid-table spot in the Premier League as of February 2026. The Black Cats have shown they mean business by going after a player of Sara’s quality. However, the rumoured €30 million price tag seems like a lot. The team are still trying to establish themselves in the top flight.

The Brazilian turns 27 this summer and is right on the edge of the Brazil national squad. He brings a combination of South American style and experience in the English leagues. Sunderland usually focus on signing younger players they can sell for a profit later. Putting so much of the budget into one player in the middle of his career goes against that plan.

Régis Le Bris obviously might like how Sara can play different roles. However, sticking with local talent and smart loan deals might be a better way to grow in a sustainable manner. If the Black Cats really want to push for Europe, they have to decide if a star signing like Sara is the right move. Otherwise, he might just be a pricey risk on a player who has already turned them down once.

Manchester United’s summer business is set to bring significant changes at Old Trafford, with INEOS aiming to equip the next permanent manager with the resources needed to mount a challenge for the Premier League title.

Whether Michael Carrick secures the permanent role after his interim spell remains to be seen, but it promises to be an exciting summer at the club.

Naturally, the rumour mill will go into overdrive in the coming months, with a multitude of players being linked with a move to the Theatre of Dreams.

Chelsea defender on the list?

Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has introduced a surprise name into the mix: Chelsea defender Jorrel Hato. As reported by Metro, Meulensteen believes the former Ajax player might be seeking an exit from Stamford Bridge after a discouraging maiden season in West London.

“It is a disappointing move for Jorrel Hato because he was absolutely outstanding for Ajax at the time.

“It doesn’t help his career, so it wouldn’t surprise me if he is looking for a loan move or another challenge elsewhere,” said Meulensteen.

The Dutchman then said his fellow countryman would be a great fit at United, referencing his versatility and potential as huge selling points for any Premier League club.

“If I were any Premier League team, including Manchester United, and he were available or became available, I would definitely be looking at him because he is still very young, and there is a lot of potential to unlock.

“He is also versatile, he can play left-back, centre-back, or as a number six. He is technically very, very good,” he said.

Midfield the priority

The 19-year-old certainly has potential, having become the youngest ever captain of Ajax before his £37 million move to the English top flight last summer.

Meulensteen’s recommendation to potentially use Hato as a number six could be crucial to United’s interest in the youngster, given the necessity to improve their options in the middle of the park.

Finding a suitable replacement for Casemiro is arguably the highest priority this summer in terms of the playing squad, and Hato could be one to keep an eye on.

The two clubs are also no strangers to doing business, with Alejandro Garnacho‘s move the other way at the end of last season being the most recent transfer between the Premier League rivals.

Additionally, Chelsea’s incredibly high turnover of players would probably leave them open to talks should United make an approach.

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Inter manager Cristian Chivu showed optimism about his team’s chances in the second leg of the Champions League playoff tie against Bodo/Glimt.

Speaking to the press (via Inter.it) following the Nerazzurri’s 2-0 victory over Lecce, Chivu lifted the mood around the club for the upcoming Champions League second leg clash against Bodo/Glimt. The first leg ended in a 3-1 loss for Inter in the Arctic Circle but everything can change with the crowd at their back at San Siro. The head coach said: “We saw what happened on Wednesday in Bodo, we have to be ready for Tuesday, the game is still wide open, qualification is in the balance.”

The Romanian manager grounded his team’s performance in the victory over Lecce that saw them go clear by ten points at the Serie A summit. He recognised the shortcomings they have experienced in the match, and talked about repairing those in the future. Chivu remarked: “Today we should have made better use of set pieces. We had a lot of them, but in the first half, we weren’t able to maximize them. We have two extraordinary players who made the most of them and Federico Dimarco, who has a fantastic left foot, and we know we can do better in these situations. We are aware of the difficulties of every match and that no one gives us anything.”

Finally, he gave some positive news on the recovery of Denzel Dumfries and Hakan Calhanoglu as the former is set to join training from tomorrow and the Turkish midfielder will be back on Monday. The boss said: “Dumfries has made some progress in recent weeks: from tomorrow he will officially be back in the group and available. Calhanoglu is also doing well and I think he will be back with the group from Monday.”

Trambak Bhattacherjee | GIFN

For a long time this campaign, it has looked like Glenavon would be facing relegation from the Irish Premiership at the end of the season.

However, just like in the title race at the other end of the table, it looks like there will be twists and turns with just nine games left this season.

The Lurgan Blues, who are bottom of the table, collected their first away points of the season with a 3-1 win at Bangor, while Crusaders slipped to a 5-2 defeat in the north Belfast derby at Cliftonville.

The results mean that Glenavon have moved to within seven points of Crusaders in 11th place, which isn't headline news on first reading.

However, when Michael O'Connor took charge of Glenavon in October they were 11 points off automatic safety, and they have now won two of their last four matches.

Declan Caddell's Crusaders, on the other hand, last won a game of football on 3 January.

Ballymena United are just three points ahead of the Crues and are far from safe, while Portadown and Bangor will want more points on the board to ensure their place in the top flight.

So, with just four games left before the split, when the bottom six sides will all face each other in the final five rounds of fixtures, will Glenavon drag themselves off the bottom of the table, or will Crusaders pull clear?

• Cliftonville beat Crues as Glenavon win at Bangor

Former Portadown title winner Philip Major said the lack of leadership was a worry for Crusaders, who lost Jarlath O'Rourke and Ross Clarke to Glentoran in January, and when asked if he feared for the Seaview side he said, "I do".

"I'm concerned for them regarding the leadership on the pitch. That is something that has given them some trouble this season," he added on Sportsound.

"They have lost a lot of leaders in their dressing room and they need to create much more resilience as a squad. So far it hasn't really happened and I'd guess it is because there are so many young players.

"Maybe they'll grow into that role, but whether they will grow quickly enough to get themselves out of that play-off position, I'd have reservations.

"If Glenavon continue with their upward trajectory then you could see them looking at Crusaders and thinking they have something to play for."

Crucially, the bottom two sides still have to face each other two more times this season - and both will be crucial.

First of all, on 14 March the Lurgan Blues will travel to Seaview and they will play again at Mourneview Park in the post-split fixtures.

'You can't have any regrets'

O'Connor said he was "delighted" with Glenavon's performance in the win over Bangor on Saturday, as Conor Falls scored twice and Barney McKeown also netted.

The former Northern Ireland midfielder said he aimed to avoid relegation when he took the job at Mourneview Park and that that ambition hasn't changed as the season as progressed.

"We were 11 points behind at that point and Crusaders had two or three games in hand," he said on BBC Radio Ulster.

"We're slowly but surely getting there. The next nine games are nine cup finals for us. You have to give everything you have, you can't have any regrets.

"It's only three points at the end of the day and we have to move on to Tuesday."

On the other hand, Crusaders coach Sean O'Neill said they were made to pay for an "awful" opening 20 minutes against Cliftonville.

O'Neill, who joined the Crues' coaching set-up in January, said it "wasn't good enough" but the onus was on the club to turn their form around, and not worry about Glenavon's recent upturn results.

"Look, we just have to rely on ourselves. We need points on the board, and we need them as soon as possible," he told BBC Sport NI.

"The fact that other teams are picking up results is what it is. We can't worry about what others are doing, we have to look after ourselves.

"For too many weeks now, too many lads have been looking over their shoulder, and that's not the Crusaders way.

"We need to knuckle down, get points on the board, and get back at it."

Show him the money.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba isn't in a hurry to get paid, but the Seattle Seahawks star receiver is bound to cash in with a big contract when that time comes. He took home the award for NFL Offensive Player of the Year and also helped Seattle win its second Lombardi Trophy in franchise history after winning Super Bowl 60.

The receiver is officially eligible for an extension this offseason, but there is no timeline on when a deal will be done.

"I'm really not too pressed right now to get it done," Smith-Njigba said in an interview with WFAA on Feb. 20 in his hometown of Dallas. "I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it's going to be a great deal. God's timing is perfect timing, so whenever that may come, we'll be ready for it. I believe I deserve to be the highest paid in my position. Just what I give to the game and the community, I give it my all, and I think that's worth a lot more."

Smith-Njigba went on to talk about his love of the game, but the business side of things drives his desire to be the highest-paid.

"I would play this game for free," Smith-Njigba said. "I love this game so much. But you don't have to, and I'm learning to be a good businessman, and we need that check at the end of the day."

He is currently set to enter the final year of a four-year, $14.4 million rookie contract. The deal, just like every NFL rookie contract, was slotted. Smith-Njigba was drafted by the Seahawks with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Since his selection came in the first round, Seattle has the ability to pick up Smith-Njigba's fifth-year option, which would extend his stay in the Pacific Northwest for another year. The fifth-year-option window for the 2023 draft class opened Jan. 5, with the final deadline set for May 1.

That option would be worth about $24.4 million, per Spotrac.

Smith-Njigba recorded 119 catches, 10 touchdowns and led the league with 1,793 receiving yards, setting a franchise record. He was also named a first-team All-Pro and earned a Pro Bowl selection.

If the Seahawks' star wants to become the highest-paid receiver, he will have to surpass the number that Ja'Marr Chase received last offseason. The Cincinnati Bengals' receiver inked a four-year, $161 million deal on March 16, 2025 to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.

With an average annual value (AAV) of $40.25 million, the mark is set for Smith-Njigba.

Time will tell if he beats it.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Seahawks Jaxon Smith-Njigba wants to be highest-paid WR with extension

Henrikh Mkhitaryan's second-half goal helped Inter Milan move 10 points clear at the Serie A summit with a 2-0 win at Lecce on Saturday, while beleaguered Juventus slumped to defeat by Como.

Cristian Chivu's Inter struggled to break down their stubborn hosts but 37-year-old Mkhitaryan and Manuel Akanji struck late to put the pressure on second-placed AC Milan ahead of their match against Parma on Sunday.

Inter suffered a surprise 3-1 defeat by Norwegians Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League knockout play-off first leg in midweek, but have now won seven successive games in Serie A.

Attention will now turn to Tuesday's second leg against Bodo as last season's losing finalists bid to keep their European campaign alive.

"We are aware of the difficulties, that we have to earn everything on the pitch and can take nothing for granted," Chivu told DAZN of that game.

"We must be the best version of ourselves, because the qualification is still wide open. Nothing is decided yet."

They were given a boost by Milan's draw with Como on Wednesday and strengthened their grip on the title race further at Lecce as they look to regain the Scudetto from Napoli.

Inter wing-back Luis Henrique had an early effort cleared off the line by Lecce defender Jamil Siebert, before home goalkeeper Wladimiro Falcone made a fine save to deny Pio Esposito.

Falcone was called into action again in the 36th minute, tipping an Esposito header around the post, and Davide Frattesi fired over shortly afterwards.

Inter thought they had scored six minutes after the restart but Federico Dimarco's effort was ruled out after a VAR review for a tight offside against Marcus Thuram in the build-up.

The visitors finally made their dominance count with 15 minutes remaining, though, as Mkhitaryan fired home a half-volley through a crowded penalty area.

Inter put the game to bed when Akanji headed in a Dimarco corner with eight minutes remaining.

- Juve jeered by fans -

Juventus were jeered off after capping a dreadful week with a 2-0 home loss to fellow Champions League chasers Como.

Luciano Spalletti's men were thrashed 5-2 by Galatasaray in their Champions League knockout play-off first leg in midweek and slumped to another disappointing loss.

Sixth-placed Como inflicted a damaging first home league defeat of the season on Juve, moving to within one point of their fifth-placed opponents.

Roma, who hold the fourth and final Champions League berth, could move four points clear of the Turin giants when they host Cremonese on Sunday.

"There is too much pressure over recent results, and these moments make the difference," Juve coach Spalletti said after a fourth defeat in five games for his team in all competitions.

"It's all about self-belief, that we have what it takes.

"We had managed to create that belief in our potential, but when confidence and a sense of authority goes...

"I saw misplaced passes that are simply never done by my players. It's not something that happens, and they feel trapped by the situation."

Cesc Fabregas's Como, playing in just their second Serie A season since being promoted in 2024, gave their own Champions League qualification hopes a massive boost with their first league win in four matches.

Como were in front in just the 11th minute when Juve gave the ball away in midfield.

Anastasios Douvikas took up possession and played in Mergim Vojvoda on the right.

The Kosovar cut inside before unleashing a left-footed shot which goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio could not keep out despite getting a hand to the ball.

The second goal came just after the hour mark when Como counter-attacked from a poorly taken Juventus corner.

Maximo Perrone carried the ball all the way up the pitch before spotting Lucas Da Cunha making a run into the box.

The captain drilled a low cross to Maxence Caqueret who tapped into an empty net from close range.

jc/nf

After No. 12 Iowa women's basketball (21-5, 12-3 Big Ten) secured an 83-74 victory over Purdue (12-14, 4-11 Big Ten) on Thursday at Mackey Arena in West Lafayette, Ind., freshman guard Journey Houston reflected on her pregame emotions, in-game trust with teammates, and overall preparedness for her first game in the Hawkeyes' starting lineup.

The 5-foot-11 native of Davenport, Iowa, played an exceptional game for the Hawkeyes, securing clutch buckets throughout the contest en route to a new career-high in scoring with 16 points on a 5-for-9 shooting effort. Houston was also 6-of-7 from the charity stripe and added five rebounds and two assists in her 28 minutes of action against the Boilermakers.

Houston has been a consistent scoring boost off the bench for Jan Jensen's Hawkeyes throughout the season, but was thrust into the starting lineup on Thursday due to the sudden injury to senior forward Hannah Stuelke.

"I was nervous when I was first told that I was going to be starting, but today I just took it day by day, and I always stay ready. So when I stepped on the court, I wasn't really that nervous.

"For myself, when I see the first shot go in, that helps a lot, and then we have people on fire like (Taylor) Stremlow and Ava (Heiden), so we just work as a team and find the open person. I feel like I have a good sense of my role. I try not to do too much at times, and I just give effort," Houston said.

Stuelke is "day-to-day" with her upper-body injury. Iowa hopes that the senior can return to the starting lineup for their next game on Sunday, Feb. 22, at Carver-Hawkeye Arena against No. 5 Michigan (22-4, 13-2 Big Ten) for Senior Day.

Obviously, if Stuelke cannot play or is limited in any capacity, Houston has shown she is well-prepared to step into the spotlight and deliver whatever the team needs of her.

Iowa and Michigan will tip off from Carver-Hawkeye Arena at 11 a.m. CT on Sunday, Feb. 22, with the game being broadcast on Fox.

Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes, and opinions. Follow Scout on X: @SpringgateNews

This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa women's basketball freshman comments on first start, career-high

Hey Testudo Times community! This is your open space to discuss all things Maryland women’s basketball. Keep things respectful as always.

Be sure to keep up with all of our women’s basketball coverage here.

All open threads will be restarted periodically as needed. Please direct any questions/comments/concerns to managing editor Matt Germack(mgermack@gmail.com). Enjoy!

Hey Testudo Times community! This is your open space to discuss all things Maryland men’s basketball. Keep things respectful as always.

Be sure to keep up with all of our men’s basketball coverage here.

All open threads will be restarted periodically as needed. Please direct any questions/comments/concerns to managing editor Matt Germack(mgermack@gmail.com). Enjoy!

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has inherited many of the problems that afflicted Enzo Maresca's side before him.

After Burnley's 93rd‑minute equaliser in their 1-1 draw, Chelsea became the Premier League leaders for dropping points at home - 17 this season.

They also now have a league‑high six red cards this term, following Wesley Fofana's dismissal in the 72nd minute.

That red card ultimately led to Chelsea's subsequent collapse after Joao Pedro opened the scoring, with Rosenior lamenting that his side have "set fire to four points" after drawing 2-2 at home to Leeds in their previous league match.

"There's an inquest after every game whether we win or lose," Rosenior added.

However, this is the first result to prompt such an angry reaction from the manager, who was appointed after Maresca left the club on New Year's Day following a falling-out with the hierarchy.

Rosenior continued: "I'm learning about the players. I'm learning about the people you can lean on when things aren't going your way and you need to see a game out. That's something we need to address very quickly."

There was further frustration over goalscorer Zian Flemming being given a free header in the centre of Chelsea's box, with Burnley substitute Jacob Bruun Larsen missing a similar chance minutes later.

"A marking assignment was missed," Rosenior said. "I'm not here to throw players under the bus - I will always protect my players, and I'll deal with it during the week.

"But there was a player assigned that duty who marked the wrong man."

Worst discipline in Premier League

Chelsea have equalled their highest number of red cards in a single Premier League season, matching the 2007‑08 campaign - but with 11 games still to play.

Only away at Nottingham Forest have Chelsea claimed all three points after going down to 10 men, holding on following an 87th‑minute dismissal.

Defeats against Manchester United, Brighton and Fulham can largely be attributed to red cards earlier in those matches, while Chelsea rallied well after Moises Caicedo was sent off in the home draw with Arsenal in November.

The pattern is clear - Chelsea are suffering because of their lack of discipline. They are also a team accustomed to collecting yellow cards.

They sit bottom of the Fair Play table with 86 points, having received 60 yellow cards this season. They were second-bottom last season and bottom the season before.

It is hard not to link the disciplinary record to the age profile of the squad. Chelsea have not fielded a player over the age of 28 all season and have the youngest squad in the Premier League - a profile deliberately built by the club's hierarchy.

However, Rosenior does not subscribe to youth being the main problem.

"I think youth is one thing, accountability is another," he said. "I'm accountable. I'm the head coach, I'm the manager of the team. I'm responsible for every result and every performance we have. We need players you can rely on in the moment to do their job.

"I know what we need to get there. It's not down to youth, it's down to assessing the players and identifying the ones you can rely on in difficult moments."

Rosenior also refused to single out Fofana and pointed out that the majority of red cards this season came before his appointment. Maresca himself was sent off for celebrating a last‑minute winner against Liverpool.

"Our discipline since I've come in - which is what I can speak about - has been very good," added Rosenior.

Chelsea keep dropping points at home

Chelsea have dropped a league‑high 17 points from winning positions at home and 19 in total - the second‑worst record in the Premier League behind West Ham on 20.

It is another area affected not only by red cards but also by an inability to finish teams off and defensive lapses, particularly from set-pieces.

Chelsea have conceded a league‑high 13.54 expected goals from set-pieces this season, resulting in 11 goals against.

It is unsurprising, therefore, that the combination of dead‑ball specialist Ward‑Prowse and an aerial presence such as Flemming contributed to the equaliser.

"Set plays are massive in the Premier League, they're so important. Our record this season, defending set plays, is not at the level required for us to achieve what we want to achieve, and that's something I need to address," Rosenior said.

There may also be a broader mentality issue, which again could be linked to the youthfulness of the squad - particularly within Chelsea's leadership group.

Asked whether Chelsea have enough leaders, Rosenior simply replied "Yes", before adding: "I think there are certain values you need to have in your team.

"The best teams, the teams that win titles - which is where we want to get to - win games 1-0 when they probably haven't played at their best.

"That should have been at least a 1-0 today. Even with 10 men for 25 minutes, that should have been a 1-0 at the least. I know what we need to get there. It's not down to youth, it's about assessing the players and identifying the ones you can rely on in difficult moments."

Chelsea were booed off at full‑time, and Rosenior's reaction may signal the end of a brief period of calm around Stamford Bridge.

It remains a promising start for the Englishman in his 11 games in charge, but he walked into a club already experiencing a febrile atmosphere, with anti‑ownership chants growing louder and fringe protests beginning to move into the mainstream.

It promises to be an interesting few weeks for Chelsea, with Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle to come in a tougher run of Premier League fixtures.

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

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has on Saturday provided an update on the personnel situation in his squad.

And the news is of an altogether positive nature.

This comes amid confirmation that the Blaugrana will have a pair of important players back for their upcoming meeting with Levante.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Saturday, Hansi Flick was asked for the latest on the wellbeing of Pedri and Marcus Rashford.

As much comes after respective spells on the sidelines for the midfielder and attacker.

And Flick went on to confirm that both Pedri and Rashford will be available for selection to face Levante:

“Along with Pedri, Rashford is also back.”

There was further positive news regarding long-term absentee Gavi, after the midfield starlet was spotted back in group training for the first time since September this week:

“Gavi has also started showing significant progress and will soon be available.”

Conor Laird – GSFN

The 2026 NFL Combine is just right around the corner and it’s a great opportunity for the Cowboys and the rest of the league to get a better understanding of this year’s rookie draft class. Through the on-the-field drills and interview process the Cowboys should able to better fill out their draft board with all of the information they should be able together.

There are a few players participating in the combine they should be particularly paying close attention to. Below we’ve listed the ones they could be targeting with their two first-round picks in April and why they should take a deeper dive into the results from the combine.

CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

After sustaining a season-ending knee injury in 2024 that caused him to miss the entire 2025 season, all eyes will be on Jermod McCoy’s medical results at the combine. With no recent tape to go one, teams are having to rely on his 2024 tape. Based on that, he’s still in contention to be the top CB drafted in April, however, that could change depending on what his medical checkup reveals. If he gets the thumbs up, he could be one of the top players the Cowboys target at 12. He’s a potential starter as a rookie and would be a great fit in Christian Parker’s scheme.

Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami

Ahkeem Mesidor is without a question one of the top pass rusher’s in the 2026 draft class. He possesses first-round talent and could be in play for the Cowboys at either 12 or 20. But at 25 years old with a history of foot problems, questions have arisen as to whether he’s worth getting selected so high, quite possibly falling out of the first round altogether. He will not only need to excel in the on-the-field drills and interviews, but also get a clean bill of health on his medicals that there will be no lingering issues with his feet moving forward.

WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

Currently in possession of the 12th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cowboys could find themselves sitting pretty if they are considering trading George Pickens. One or both of either Carnell Tate or Jordyn Tyson could still be on the board when Dallas is on the clock. Both are Day 1 potential starters, however, Tyson has some past injury history that needs to be cleared up at the combine. If everything checks out, he would make a nice complement for CeeDee Lamb as Pickens’ potential replacement.

Federico Dimarco and Henrikh Mkhitaryan joke about the Inter wing-back’s latest Man of the Match award, but are ‘a family’ to protect Alessandro Bastoni from jeering.

It looked on paper like a more comfortable victory than it really was, because they had to wait until the 75^th minute to break Lecce down.

Dimarco had the ball in the net earlier, but it was disallowed because Marcus Thuram’s shoulder was offside in the build-up.

The wing-back was involved in both goals anyway, his corner flicked on for the Henrikh Mkhitaryan half-volley, then a pure assist for the Manuel Akanji header again from the flag.

Dimarco and Mkhitaryan joke about Inter award

LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Inter celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

“It was a real sigh of relief to get the breakthrough, as we knew it was a difficult game, as Lecce are well-organised. After our long journey to Bodo, we left on Thursday evening, then had to set off again yesterday to travel here, it wasn’t easy,” Dimarco told DAZN Italia.

“This win gave a sense of consistency after beating Juventus, and that is what we needed to keep pushing at the top of the table.”

It means Dimarco makes history as the first Serie A defender to provide assists in five consecutive appearances since 2006-07, and receives another MVP trophy.

“I thought Mkhitaryan deserved the Man of the Match award really, he came on so well. I leave the awards to my kids, they like arranging them, but what really matters for me is the team.”

The Italian now has 14 assists in Serie A this season, comfortably more than any other player.

LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Inter celebrates after scoring his team’s opening goal during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Standing next to him, Mkhitaryan joked that Dimarco “needs to get a new house to store all these awards.”

“It is usually Bastoni in that position, but seeing as he just ran and made a big challenge, he didn’t have the energy to go there, so I did it instead,” revealed Mkhitaryan.

Following a week of controversy over his simulation to get Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu sent off, Bastoni was jeered loudly by Lecce fans every time he touched the ball this evening. How did his Inter teammates help him deal with that?

“It’s in the past now, we have to focus on the present. Bastoni and everyone else has already talked about it too much, we just focus on our work,” insisted Dimarco.

LECCE, ITALY – FEBRUARY 21: Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between US Lecce and FC Internazionale at Stadio Via del Mare on February 21, 2026 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Mkhitaryan also had words of advice for the Italy international.

“We are a family, we support each other through thick and thin, but that is in the past now and we move on.”

Earlier this month, WWE's Big E (real name Ettore Ewen) officially confirmed his retirement from pro wrestling, years after a broken neck led to him stepping away from the ring. Big E is best known for his membership in The New Day, one of the most accomplished trios in WWE history, but the last time he was onscreen with his partners, things did not go very well.

According to Ewen, speaking on 107.7 The Bone, there was talk about Big E getting a measure of revenge against Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods for their treatment of him at the New Day 10th anniversary celebration on "WWE Raw." However, it never came to pass.

"It was something that was discussed at some point," Big E said. "But, look, I'm very zen these days. I'm a big mindfulness meditation guy. Right now, I'm focused on my broadcasting role. That is my role. And look, if those guys would actually appear on a PLE, if they would be there on one of these things, maybe I would spend more time talking and thinking about them. But I look around – I look at the card, no New Day. Another PLE goes by, no New Day. So what do you want me to do?"

Big E regularly appears on pre- and post-show panels for major WWE events, offering his predictions and reactions alongside other panelists. He's set to continue broadcasting outside of WWE soon, too, appearing as the host of NFL draft analysis series "The Evaluation."

Big E began his wrestling career in 2009, when he signed a developmental contract with WWE after playing college football. That makes Ewen one of the few wrestlers of his era to have such a lengthy career without ever wrestling outside of WWE. Along with the accolades achieved with The New Day, Big E went on to become WWE Champion in 2021 before the end of his in-ring career the next year.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit 107.7 The Bone and provide a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

Read more: Every WWE Star Departure In 2025 So Far

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

Well, the D-backs are already off to a better spring start than they were in 2025. Last year, they lost their first three games, conceding a total of 32 runs in the process. So it was nice to see them put together a well-pitched game right out of the gate. On the other hand, opening with a victory makes it a little harder to remember that spring training numbers are totally meaningless! We’ll see if the Diamondbacks can run their unbeaten streak to a mighty two games this afternoon!

[Wrestling commentator voice] WHAT IS JORDAN LAWLAR DOING IN CENTER FIELD?!?!? After yesterday saw a fairly convincing facsimile of Arizona’s Opening Day line-up, this afternoon is… not so much. In fact, absent any injuries, Lawlar might be the only one who’ll be trotting out onto the field in Los Angeles next month. Still, we should probably get used to this, because it’s not long before the World Baseball Classic will be sucking away seven of the 40-man Arizona roster from Salt River Fields, and we should get used to seeing replacements for the next few weeks.

Also, Mitch Bratt makes his first appearance in a Diamondback jersey. He was one of the players received by Arizona from Texas, in exchange for Merrill Kelly’s holiday in Arlington, and will hopefully become a useful piece in the D-backs rotation. Perhaps not this year – Kohl Drake is the more advanced prospect we got off the Rangers – but fingers crossed for down the line. After him, we can expect to get some or all of the following pitchers: RHP Alfred Morillo, RHP Hayden Durke, LHP Spencer Giesting and LHP Yu-Min Lin. I don’t believe today’s game has any TV coverage, but it’ll be on the radio through ESPN 620 AM.

The biggest news of the week, by far, is Ronda Rousey (and Gina Carano) are back!

Earlier this week, Most Valuable Promotions announced that Rousey is coming out of retirement to fight Gina Carano in an MMA bout this may. So, let’s talk about that, plus whatever else you hooligans have questions about.

Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano undercard

With the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano news, it opens the door for a lot of names to compete on the Netflix card. So, be the matchmaker: what other fights would you make for this card?

Great question, Mike!

The announcement of Rousey vs. Carano caught me entirely off guard when it dropped earlier this week. Alexander K. Lee and I wrote about the event already, but there are so many more things to dive into, and this is one of the topics that has me most curious, because Rousey vs. Carano is going to big the biggest fight (viewership-wise) of the year, and so the supporting bouts are fascinating. Basically, every fighter not signed to the UFC or PFL should be trying to be involved in this thing. But who should MVP choose?

First, I think we keep the card tight. We don’t want a 14-fight sprawling MMA card like the UFC loves. Seven fights, max, on this thing, including the main event, so that leaves us with six undercard bouts to fill. Let’s assume that two of those get taken up by random fights with minimal broad appeal; just bouts between some people Jake Paul knows or maybe represents. So now we need four high-profile fights.

One of those fights should include Holly Holm. Let’s be honest, Holm is not an exciting fighter to watch, but she has a built-in storyline with Rousey, and if Rousey decides to fight again after this, at least set up the possibility for that rematch, even if it doesn’t come to pass. Holm can fight any random WMMA fighter in the opening main card bout.

Next up, let’s get Amanda Serrano in there. While Rousey might not be interested in fighting Holm again, she might be amenable to an MMA/boxing split with Serrano, where they each do one apiece. Again, maybe nothing comes of this, but you’re planting seeds of possibility for the future.

Then we’re going spicy. Rousey and Carano seem to be full of respect for each other, and that’s all well and good, but we need a different kind of matchup to bring some acidity to this meal; enter, Tony Ferguson vs. Dillon Danis (shoutout to DukeMadDuck, who threw this out on BTL Thursday). Ferguson would bring life and energy to all the press, and he’s always down for a fun scrap, and Danis would bring some much-needed villainy to the proceedings. It’s a perfect fight for the occasion, assuming MVP can pull it off with Misfits in the mix.

And lastly, this is truly the best idea: put Gable Steveson on this thing.

Everyone knows that Steveson is UFC-bound sooner or later, but why not make it later? Yes, there’s a belief that Steveson will join the promotion in time to fight at UFC White House, but that’s just tittle-tattle. As far as I know, Steveson hasn’t signed any papers yet, and if I were him, I wouldn’t. Fighting Netflix with Rousey and Carano will give the Olympic gold medalist the biggest possible profile, and as of right now, nothing is stopping him. Fight anyone — perhaps newly crowned BKFC champion Andrei Arlovski? — smoke them, and then turn around quickly for the White House card. OR, leverage MVP and UFC against each other and go with whoever is going to pay you.

And if I’m MVP, I absolutely want Steveson on this card. You don’t want this thing to be exclusively old names, and Steveson is young, bona fide, and extremely likely to deliver a big highlight. And even the UFC might not be too upset, as this could help boost Steveson’s profile before he inevitably comes to them. Everyone wins, so make it happen, MMA Gods.

Scheduling

Feels like the UFC is stalled with zero championship fights on the calendar. You think is has to do with the White House event? Without Jon Jones, Conor McGregor or Alex Pereira for the White House, what could be those 6 or 7 “amazing” fights? They don’t have enough stars for it, I believe. Thank you

I think the lack of championship fights on the schedule does have something to do with the White House card, but perhaps not what you think.

When the White House card was first announced, my belief was that it would be a huge letdown, a la Fight Island (which was just an arena they’d already had shows at before). After some time, I let my imagination get the better of me and began to think this might be fun, but now I’m all the way back. The UFC White House card is going to be deeply underwhelming for hardcore MMA fans.

Despite what some people have said, I just cannot imagine they actually put six or seven title fights on this card. My guess is this looks a lot like UFC 300, but this time the UFC learned from its mistakes. UFC 300 was such a big story for a long time because the promotion didn’t have fights for it, but booked out its slate ahead of the event, leaving few options for the big card. This time, the UFC is holding all the options to figure out which two or three title fights it wants at the White House, and then the other fights will get doled out after. It’s a better process, even though it’s a little frustrating for the fighters, I’m sure.

So, yeah, I’m not banking on anything “amazing” for UFC White House, because that’s not really what the promotion is after. This is going to be like UFC Sphere: some good fights, a unique and different atmosphere, but ultimately, just another fight card.

Where is the fun?

I was rewatching some older UFC with Anderson Silva taking LHW fights for fun while he was still MW champion. Do you think it’s the UFC or the fighters that stop the best fights from happening now?

I mean, it’s definitely both. As we’ve seen at the start of 2026, the UFC is not focused on the meritocracy of the sport, so we’re getting more “fun” fights than the best fighting the best. But also, the top level of MMA is inherently broken because the moment a fighter wins a belt, they can barely contain how disinterested in defending it they are. Ilia Topuria moved up to lightweight almost immediately, and would be on his way to welterweight right now if he had his druthers. Khamzat Chimaev finally won a title, and all he can talk about is fighting Alex Pereira. Pereira reclaimed his belt and has eyes on heavyweight. And, of course, Islam Makhachev moved up to welterweight and is trying to fight the shadow of Kamaru Usman for his first defense. And none of this even mentions the ever-present desire to go to boxing and get actually paid.

Ultimately, everything is the UFC’s fault because they’re in charge, and they’ve shown fighters that this is the way to get ahead in the game. But man, I wish things weren’t this way.

Bank Robbery

Look, I’m not writing this entire question out. You can go read it if you can’t read the image above, but the premise is right up my alley: pick four fighters to fill the role of characters in The Town to pull off a bank robbery. If you want to get into the mailbag, these are the sorts of hypotheticals that’ll do it.

First off, the Doug MacRay role, AKA the Leader. This is the easiest and most obvious answer possible, but it’s also the correct one: Lee Murray.

For those who don’t know, Murray is a former UFC fighter and all-around wild man (the stories about him are legendary) who masterminded and executed a £53 million Securitas depot robbery, which was, at the time, the largest cash robbery ever (and could have been bigger; they left another 150 million behind). Murray is a terrible human being and stone psycho, but if I’m planning a heist, there simply is not a better option in the world.

Second, the James Coughlin role, AKA the loose cannon/muscle of the group. Frankly, Murray also could fill this role admirably, and perhaps has more Jem in him than MacRay, but there is no shortage of crazy MMA fighters to call upon, and Murray’s heist experience is too valuable. If we’re being honest, I should probably pick someone like Datsik (if you don’t know how he is, congratulations, you have not been involved in MMA for way too long like I have), but Lee Murray is already odious enough, and I don’t want this to just be a crew of the worst people in MMA history, so instead, give me Charles Bennett, AKA Felony, AKA Krazy Horse.

The thing about Jem is, despite being a sociopath, he’s also somewhat endearing. Bennett is not nearly as bad a person as Jem is, but he’s also even more lovable, while retaining an immense amount of wild card energy. He fills the role nicely.

Third, Albert “Gloansy” Magloan, AKA the glue guy. Gloansy isn’t smart enough to plan a heist, or crazy enough to shoot it out with the cops in the street, but he’s takes nothing off the table, and is as resolute as a rock, with a bit of a selfless streak to him. If Dougie came to Gloansy to hurt somebody, he’d also be in immediately, but he might crack a joke or two as well, instead of turning the dial up even more. This feels like Max Holloway to me. Plus, Max has some heist experience, having previously helped Donnie Wilson rob the Federal Reserve in Den of Thieves.

Lastly, Desmond “Dez” Elden, AKA the other one. Not every player on a team is going to be an all-star, and that’s Dez. He’s a man with a specific set of skills, and he’s loyal, but he’s not bringing much to the table other than that. This is the hardest role to fill by far, and basically just means I need someone I can trust not to turn snitch when the big heist is completed. For that, give me Arnold Allen. After all, “Almighty” kind of even looks like him.

Now, let’s go get paid.

Thanks for reading, and thank you to everyone who sent in questions. Do you have any burning questions about things at least somewhat related to combat sports? Then you’re in luck, because you can send them to me. Every Sunday (sometimes I forget and it happens on Monday), I’ll put out a call for questions on The Feed. Doesn’t matter if they’re topical or insane; just dropyour questions in there and let’s have fun.

The Texas Rangers hitch a ride east for their first road game of the spring where they will take on the Chicago Cubs from Mesa, AZ. It’s days like today where we discover people such as Jonah Bride, Cooper Johnson, and Tyler Wade both exist and are employed by the Rangers.

Right-handed rotation hopeful Kumar Rocker will make the start for Texas opposite LHP Matthew Boyd for Chicago. According to Kennedi Landry, expect to see Cal Quantrill, Patrick Murphy, Luis Curvelo, and Carter Baumler also pitch for Texas in today’s game.

You can listen to the game via 105.3 The Fan, watch the Chicago feed via MLB.TV, or follow along on Gameday. First pitch from Sloan Park is scheduled for 2:05 pm CT.

Go Rangers!

Ronda Rousey was in talks to return to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and make record-breaking money to fight Gina Carano, but the promotion’s transition to Paramount+ and death of pay-per-view (PPV) points put all that to rest.

Earlier this week, Rousey and Carano dropped a bombshell on the mixed martial arts (MMA) community by announcing a fight for May 16 on Netflix. The two women’s MMA pioneers partnered up with Jake Paul and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) to make the superfight a reality. It may be 10 years too late from when Rousey and Carano were in their respective primes, but it’s still a big deal for MMA in 2026.

The first question fight fans were asking was whether or not UFC had a shot to bring Rousey vs. Carano to the Octagon. According to Rousey, all parties were involved in talks to get a deal done prior to UFC’s transition from ESPN+ to Paramount+. Once the new partnership took flight and PPV points went away it completely changed what UFC was willing — or approved — to offer both Rousey and Carano.

Check it out below:

“I went to (Dana White) and said, ‘Dude, you always say that I’m the best fighter you ever worked with. Like, reward me for it. Don’t punish me for being easy to work with. Give me the best deal you ever gave anybody,’” revealed Rousey during a recent interview with Jim Rome.

“He came back and he like literally brought me a deal where I would make more per pay-per-view buy than anybody in history.”

“It happened to go to the other side of when the ESPN deal and their pay-per-view model would be ending and they would be going to streaming,” added Rousey.

“They didn’t want to set a precedent of giving me the guaranteed money that I deserve because once I raise that tide it lifts all the boats.

“It’s in their best interest actually not to put on the best fights possible, but to spend as little as money as possible so that he can keep it.”

Once Rousey and Carano knew UFC would not be able to give them the type of money they were looking for the two women took their superfight to Paul and MVP. It wasn’t for a lack of trying on UFC’s part, but still a bittersweet end to Rousey’s storied journey with the promotion.

“It no longer made sense for me to go over there because they didn’t want to pay us the money that we deserve because then for the rest of the the time of the deal, they’re going to have to pay everybody else more,” explained Rousey. “And so then I decided to look elsewhere.”

Here are your Guardians lineups for today:

Double-barrel action to start Cactus League play.

Who has it better than us?#GuardsSpringpic.twitter.com/hV8tY50v2J

— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) February 21, 2026

vs. Reds:

LF Kwan

CF Martinez

3B Ramirez

C Naylor

SS Arias

DH Fry

1B Kayfus

RF Rodriguez

2B Brito

P Allen

vs. Brewers

CF DeLauter

SS Rocchio

1B Manzardo

C Hedges

3B Schneemann

DH Valera

RF Jones

LF Halpin

2B Bazzana

P Cantillo

Alvaro Arbeloa spoke to the media after Real Madrid’s 2-1 loss to Osasuna on Saturday evening. He was asked about their intensity, to which he said: “I’ve said that we always have to match the intensity of our opponents. I don’t know if I’m saying things differently or if I’m not expressing myself well. It’s true that we haven’t been able to string together games, even though we were coming off three good wins. But this is a day-by-day situation. We can’t get stuck after the fourth game. That’s what we’re working towards.”

Arbeloa on what this defeat implies

“I hope it’s nothing serious, because we’re fighting for our lives again in four days. A team shows its strength in adversity. What we can’t allow is doubt. I believe in my team. We need to maintain that level of performance over time. We’ll keep working, pushing ourselves, and getting the best out of every player, because we need them all.”

Arbeloa on whether the team was ‘too slow’

“I didn’t say we were too slow, but rather that we needed to move the ball faster and create more danger. It’s a matter of concept, knowing what we want to do and what we want to provoke. We have to keep working on it, to see what we did well on Tuesday and not today. There are many more matches to play. We have a lot of room for improvement. If you’re not at 100%, anyone can beat you. Our opponents prepare very well for their matches.”

Arbeloa on the result

“Nobody likes to lose, least of all us. This is going to be a long season; I said it hadn’t even started yet. And I still think so. We had control of the first half, but we lacked speed. Against any deep defensive block, we need to move the ball faster. We need to create chances on both flanks. We focused a lot on the left wing, which is normal, but that makes us easy to defend against. We have another game on Wednesday, and we need to approach it in the best possible way.”

Arbeloa on Fede Valverde’s substitution

“He’s been putting in a lot of effort playing many games in a row, and he’s been dealing with a lot of discomfort. He’s been feeling it for the last few weeks. And I preferred not to risk Fede. It was more about not taking any chances, in case he got injured.”

Arbeloa on the refereeing

“From what little I saw, there could have been a foul in the previous play. Two very close offside calls went against us. We didn’t play well; we need to play much better, with more intensity. It’s not easy to do that Wednesday-Sunday, but that’s what’s expected of us. This is Real Madrid. I knew they were demanding, and I wasn’t wrong.”

Arbeloa on Kylian Mbappé’s fitness

“He rested last weekend; he didn’t play against Real Sociedad, which wasn’t just any team. When we think he’s not fit, we’re not going to take risks. It’s not something I decide alone; I do it with the doctors. He felt ready to play, and as I said, he didn’t play against Real Sociedad.”

Clemson’s late-season ACC swoon continued on Saturday afternoon with the home-standing Tigers dropping a crucial conference game to the surging Florida State Seminoles, 70-65. Florida State’s Robert McCray V decimated the Clemson defense, putting up a game-high 29 points and scoring at will down the stretch. The Tigers were led by freshman guard Ace Buckner, who scored 15 points off the bench. Dillon Hunter chipped in 13 points, and RJ Godfrey contributed 12 in the losing effort.

The first half was a back-and-forth affair with neither team finding an offensive footing until both teams hit a scoring surge late in the half. The score was 21-18, Clemson at the 5:07 mark in the opening stanza, but the Tigers went to the halftime break with a 36-33 lead. Ace Buckner got hot from deep and poured in nine of his team leading 15 points on a trio of treys down the stretch of the first half, and Dillon Hunter temporarily overcame his scoring phobia and chipped in seven, including an acrobatic finish at the buzzer to push Clemson’s lead out to three going into the locker room.

I’m not sure what happened to Florida State’s Robert McCray V in the locker room, but the Noles should bottle it, because he came with his phasers set to kill in the second half. While Clemson worked the ball around and eventually launched ill-fated 3-pointers, Florida State got the ball into McCray’s hands and got out of the way. Clemson had to search for baskets, but the Noles knew exactly where to look. That was the story of the game for me. The normally solid Brad Brownell defense could not stop McCray from driving the ball into the lane, and they couldn’t stop him from finishing once he reached the heart of the Tigers’ defense. He went five of six from inside the arc, and three of five from outside the arc, and Clemson couldn’t find enough buckets late to close the gap. Whenever Florida State needed a bucket, McCray provided. Meanwhile, Clemson let multiple wide-open looks from distance go wanting down the stretch and refused to cut into Florida State’s lead despite multiple attempts by the Noles to melt down and give Clemson the victory. After multiple attempts to give up the lead in the last two minutes, Florida State got frustrated and decided to win the game by extending its three-point lead to five points at the foul line.

At the end of the day, Clemson can either hit shots or play solid defense to win games. They didn’t do either today and lost a home game to Florida State. There’s not much else to say, other than don’t shoot 33 3-pointers if you can only hit 10 of them, and don’t let one player beat your entire defense.

The Tigers get a week to lick their wounds before Louisville comes to town in what is shaping up to be a critical game for the Tigers’ postseason seeding.

A word from our sponsor:

Don’t forget to visit our sponsors at Section 103, which has added a Clemson apparel collection.

They have polos, hats, stickers, and a variety of shirts to choose from. You can grab some new Clemson gear with our promo code for 10%: STS10.

Hey Testudo Times community! This is your open space to discuss all things Maryland football. Keep things respectful as always.

Be sure to keep up with all of our football coverage here.

All open threads will be restarted periodically as needed. Please direct any questions/comments/concerns to managing editor Matt Germack(mgermack@gmail.com). Enjoy!

Harry Kane scored a double yet again as nervy Bayern Munich overcame Eintracht Frankfurt 3-2 at home on Saturday and went eight points clear at the top of the Bundesliga following Borussia Dortmund's late draw at RB Leipzig.

Dortmund drew 2-2 after Fabio Silva's first Bundesliga goal in stoppage time.

Two carbon-copy tap-ins from the in-form Christoph Baumgartner pushed the Austrian to 10 league goals for the season and the Red Bulls to a 2-0 lead.

But a Romulo own goal boosted the visitors on 50 minutes and the late drama from Karim Adeyemi's pass meant Leipzig stayed fifth and outside the Champions League spots for now.

Second-placed Dortmund host Bayern on matchday 24 of 34 next Saturday and anything other than win for the home side would put the Bavarians well on the way to a 13th championship in 14 years.

Bayern's Aleksandar Pavlović gave the hosts the lead against Frankfurt before Kane's brace had the champions cruising. Jonathan Burkardt's penalty after Kane's foul and an Arnaud Kalimuendo goal following a terrible pass by Joshua Kimmich cut the deficit to 3-2.

Mario Götze almost levelled against his ex-club but Bayern clung on.

RB Leipzig defender David Raum delivered a brutally honest assessment after his side conceded a last-minute equalizer to draw 2-2 with Borussia Dortmund, expressing deep frustration at what he described as a recurring failure to finish games.

“I’m extremely disappointed, really angry, really furious about how we gave the game away again at the end,” Raum said after the final whistle.

Leipzig had been the better side for long stretches and held a deserved lead, but were unable to protect their advantage in the closing moments - something Raum believes reflects a deeper issue.

“It’s not the first time we’ve lost points even though we were better and leading,” he said. “We lack a bit of experience and that dirty mentality needed to win games like this at the end. I’m really angry.”

Raum emphasized that Leipzig must learn to prioritize results over attacking ambition in key moments, even if it means abandoning their usual style.

“We need to review the match, but in the end we simply have to want it more,” he explained. “We need to put our ego aside and sometimes just get the result over the line instead of trying to score more goals. We have to do better there.”

The defender also briefly voiced frustration with the officiating, though he stopped short of detailed criticism.

“The refereeing performance wasn’t okay today,” Raum said. “But I don’t want to go into that further right now.”

Raum’s emotional reaction reflected the disappointment within the Leipzig squad after letting a victory slip from their grasp - and highlighted the mental step the team must take if they are to consistently compete at the highest level.

PHOENIX (AP) — Phoenix Suns All-Star guard Devin Booker will miss at least one week because of a right hip strain that happened against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday.

The team made the announcement on Saturday before the team's game against the Orlando Magic.

Booker is averaging 24.7 points, 6.1 assists and 3.9 rebounds over 44 games this season. The 29-year-old recently missed seven straight games with a sprained right ankle.

The Suns also said that recently signed guard Haywood Highsmith is continuing to recover from right knee surgery last offseason. The team said Highsmith is making “good progress” and will be evaluated in 2 to 3 weeks.

The Suns have been one of the NBA's surprise teams this season with a 32-24 record, but injuries have taken a toll and they've lost four of their past five games.

___

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

UCLA’s flirtation with SoFi Stadium isn’t resulting in a move in 2026.

The school told the California Post in a statement that it was going to play this season at the Rose Bowl. The school has been exploring the possibility of leaving the iconic stadium to play its home games at the home of the Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers.

“UCLA will play the upcoming football season at the Rose Bowl,” Mary Osako, UCLA’s vice chancellor of strategic communications, said in a statement provided to the California Post. “We know how much game day means to Bruins — to our students, alumni and fans who plan their autumn around Saturdays together.

“Our priority is delivering a strong season experience for our student-athletes and our community, and we have great momentum in our football program. During this unprecedented time in college athletics, UCLA will always be guided by what’s best for our student-athletes and the Bruin community.”

That exploration led to a lawsuit from the city of Pasadena and the Rose Bowl against the school. UCLA’s lease with the stadium stretches into the 2040s. A court date is set for Friday regarding that suit.

The suit was filed in October and said that the school was “unequivocally expressing its intent to abandon the Rose Bowl Stadium” to relocate to the NFL stadium. The Rose Bowl has been UCLA’s home for 44 seasons since the school moved from the Los Angeles Coliseum.

Given the length of the lease remaining at the Rose Bowl, it’s likely that UCLA will have to pay a hefty sum to move to SoFi Stadium in the near future. And remember, UCLA has an athletic department that hasn’t exactly been flush with cash in recent seasons.

UCLA has seven home games at the Rose Bowl in new coach Bob Chesney’s first season. The Bruins host USC to end the season, and teams like Illinois and Wisconsin also come to the Rose Bowl.

CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) — Robert McCray V matched his season-high with 29 points, including Florida State's final 10, and the streaking Seminoles defeated Clemson 70-65 on Saturday.

Florida State held the lead for 11 minutes in the first half despite nine lead changes. Ace Buckner nailed three 3-pointers in the final four minutes, and two of them were during an 8-0 run that helped Clemson take a 36-33 halftime lead.

The lead continued back and forth in the second half until the Seminoles' 7-0 run gave them a 48-42 lead with 13 1/2 minutes remaining. Florida State went ahead by eight before Clemson rallied again, taking a 56-55 lead with eight minutes left.

There were five more lead changes, the last when McRay hit a 3-pointer for a 66-65 lead. The Tigers did not score thereafter, missing their last six shots, five of them from 3-point range. McRay closed it out with a layup and a couple of free throws.

In all, there were 22 lead changes and the game was tied five times.

Lajae Jones scored 13 points for the Seminoles (14-13, 7-7 ACC), who have won seven of their last nine games.

Buckner scored 15 points, Dillon Hunter 13 and RJ Godfrey 12 for Clemson (20-8, 10-5), which has lost four in a row since a 10-1 start to the conference season.

Up next

Florida State: Miami visits on Tuesday.

Clemson: No. 21 Louisville visits on Saturday.

___

Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here and here (AP News mobile app). AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball

Southampton boss Tonda Eckert felt "disappointed" after only winning a point at home to Charlton but admitted it could be a decent result come the end of the season.

Saints fired themsleves into the lead in the second half as Leo Scienza's cross was glanced into the net by Ross Stewart.

But after Sonny Carey's equaliser they were unable to find the goal to win them three points, despite large periods with the ball and 10 minutes of added time.

"There's a little bit of a disappointment for the very moment," Eckert said after the game. "But at the same time I think it might be a point that will come to quite a big importance towards the end of the season.

"In those games, especially at home we play to win. I think that's very clear. If you go behind after scoring in the second half, we have done it sometimes where we managed to bring those games over the line or then score a second goal.

"We didn't manage that today, so for the moment there's a little bit of disappointment on the result. But that will be gone by tomorrow morning and then we go again on Tuesday."

Southampton are now four points off the top six and next host QPR at St Mary's on Tuesday.

For the Dodgers, the Cactus League gets underway today, on the road in Tempe.

Saturday game info

• Teams: Dodgers at Angels
• Ballpark: Tempe Diablo Stadium
• Time: 12:10 p.m. PT
• TV: SportsNet LA
• Radio: AM 570 (simulcast), KTNQ 1020 AM (Spanish)

Raul Garcia's superb 90th-minute strike consigned leaders Real Madrid to a 2-1 defeat at Osasuna in La Liga on Saturday, in a blow to their title hopes.

Champions Barcelona trail Madrid by two points but can overtake them on Sunday if they beat Levante at Camp Nou.

Alvaro Arbeloa's Madrid put on a below-par performance in Pamplona and fell behind to an Ante Budimir penalty, before Vinicius Junior pulled the visitors level.

The second leg of Madrid's Champions League play-off against Jose Mourinho's Benfica on Wednesday seemed to play on their minds as they failed to kick on at El Sadar. 

Vinicius, who scored a sensational goal to give Madrid a slender first-leg lead but was then the victim of alleged racial abuse, thought he had earned his team a point before Garcia blasted home the winner.

"It was not a good game from us... we have to play a lot better," Arbeloa told reporters.

"Nobody likes to lose, us least of all, but we're not hurt. There's a long way to go.

"We had control at some points but we lacked speed in our play... on Wednesday we have another final, another game that is very important for us."

Croatian target man Budimir curled narrowly wide of Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois's far post early on, the first of many problems he gave the visitors.

The Belgian stopper made an excellent save a few minutes later, after Budimir tried to nod home Ruben Garcia's cross under pressure from Alvaro Carreras.

Budimir also clipped the post with a header as Osasuna impressed, with their victory helping them rise to ninth.

Madrid defender David Alaba came close when Alejandro Catena blocked his shot, shortly before the hosts took the lead.

Budimir burst into the area and went down under a challenge from Courtois. Although he was initially booked for diving a VAR review showed the goalkeeper stood on his foot.

The veteran forward took the resulting penalty himself and sent Courtois the wrong way to give Osasuna the lead.

"I knew it was a penalty and I wanted to stay cool (while it was being reviewed)," said Budimir.

Osasuna sat deep at times in the second half, looking to fend off 15-time European champions Madrid.

Arda Guler came close with a vicious shot that flew just over.

Chasing an equaliser, Arbeloa threw on creative duo Trent Alexander-Arnold and Brahim Diaz and his team began to take control.

French superstar Kylian Mbappe put the ball in the back of Osasuna's net but had edged offside, although the equaliser was not long in coming.

Fede Valverde charged into the box with the ball, unperturbed by Osasuna's defenders bouncing off him, before crossing for Vinicius to tuck home.

It was the Brazilian's fifth goal in his last four games across all competitions, having found his best form since Arbeloa replaced Xabi Alonso at the helm in January.

- Wasted chance -

Mbappe, La Liga's top goalscorer, should have put Madrid ahead with 10 minutes to go but Javi Galan brilliantly blocked his shot.

Alexander-Arnold curled a free-kick wide as the clock ticked down and it looked like Madrid were left ruing two points dropped, when the third was taken away from them too.

Raul Garcia cut inside the sliding Raul Asencio brilliantly and fired across Courtois and in at the far post.

The striker's celebrations were cut short by the offside flag but a VAR review showed he was onside and the goal was given.

It was the first time Osasuna have beaten Madrid in La Liga for 15 years.

"It's an incredible feeling... I think (that fact) is crazy. The fans deserved a victory like this after so many years," Raul Garcia told DAZN.

"When I saw (Asencio) coming I knew he was going to go to ground and after that I stayed calm to swerve him and was able to score."

Real Betis, fifth, were held 1-1 at home against Rayo Vallecano earlier Saturday, leaving them three points behind fourth-placed Atletico Madrid.

Diego Simeone's side host Espanyol later on, aiming to make amends after last weekend's 3-0 defeat by Rayo.

rbs/nf

A middleweight clash between former champion Sean Strickland (29-7) and red hot rising contender Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez (14-2, 1 NC) headlines Saturday’s UFC Houston fight card.

Strickland enters the match ranked No. 3 in the division and coming off a one-sided loss to former champion Dricus du Plessis. Hernandez will be bringing an eight-fight winning steak with him to the octagon inside Toyota Center. 

UFC Houston Start Times

• Main Card begins at 8 p.m. ET on Paramount+
• Preliminary Card beings at 5 p.m. ET on Paramount+

UFC Houston Official Results

MAIN CARD (Paramount+, 8 p.m. ET)

• Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez
• Uros Medic vs. Geoff Neal
• Melquizael Costa vs. Dan Ige
• Ante Delija vs. Serghei Spivac
• Josiah Harrell (171 vs. Jacobe Smith
• Michel Pereira vs. Zach Reese

PRELIMINARY CARD (Paramount+, 5 p.m. ET)

• Carlos Leal vs. Chidi Njokuani
• Alibi Idiris vs. Ode Osbourne
• Alden Coria vs. Luis Gurule
• Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne Edwards
• Ramiz Brahimaj vs. Punahele Soriano
• Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani vs. Phil Rowe
• Yadier del Valle vs. Jordan Leavitt
• Carli Judice vs. Juliana Miller

The season of futility continues. The product on the field leaves a lot to be desired, and so will this recap.

Call me when someone else is coaching the team.

Player of the Game

Someone I guess – however many points, assists, steals, blocks, whatever

I’m sure they did great!

Random Observations

Wow they suck – 8 minutes without a single point.

Wow they suck 2 – Another blowout loss on the road.

Wow they suck 3 – I don’t know think of something.

Looking Ahead

Penn State will lose to some other team on their schedule. I couldn’t be bothered to figure out which.

Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones felt his side were "very good defensively" in their draw with Southampton.

The Addicks went behind to a Ross Stewart header after the break but were able to rescue a point thanks to a Sonny Carey goal.

After 90 minutes with the score still level, 10 minutes of added time were played and Saints really pushed Charlton, but Jones' backline stood firm and were able to leave the south coast with a point.

"Southampton are a really good side at the level," Jones said after the game. "And after what they did to us at home when we were too open and gave up too many clear-cut chances, we knew we couldn't do that - and we didn't.

"I thought we were really good defensively, very disciplined but we could have had a little bit more quality in transition and built a little bit more.

"Every time we did build, or every time we secured the first or second pass, we actually got in, so I would have liked this to have been a little bit more. But on the scale of stuff, it's a good point."

Charlton are next in action when they play Championship strugglers West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.

There are great players for the Houston Texans and then there are elite names that alter the outcome of games.

All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. falls in the latter category after being the face of the Texans last fall. Pro Football Focus tends to agree, which is why he graded out as the highest player on the defensive side for the AFC South franchise.

PFF recently finished its top 101 players list for the 2025 season, naming the best players based on their metrics and on-field play. Do-it-all defensive back Jalen Pitre found his way into the top 101, ranking No. 35 overall ahead of defensive back Kamari Lassiter (No. 55) and wide receiver Nico Collins (No. 50).

As for Anderson? He came in ranked at No. 5 overall, the second-highest defensive player on the metric. The only one higher? Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, who ranked No. 1 overall by PFF, though the website did say Anderson was the highest-graded player by consistency.

"Anderson finished 2025 as the highest-graded defensive player in the NFL," PFF wrote. "He was a menace to opposing offenses all year, with his 102 pressures and 25.3% PFF pass-rush win rate leading the league."

Year 3 was one to remember for Anderson, who was the only player to challenge Garrett for votes as the league's top defender. While he ranked second on the Texans in sacks, tackles for loss and QB hits, his ability to pressure quarterbacks into rushing through their progression. No player also finished with an 88.2 or higher in PFF grades each week.

Anderson is expected to be the next defensive name locked up long-term on a new deal this offseason. Based on his breakout season, he's expected to be one of the highest-paid defensive players in league history.

This article originally appeared on Texans Wire: Texans DE Will Anderson Jr. named to PFF's Top 101 players of 2025

Arizona vs. Houston live score, updates, highlights from 2026 college basketball game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Arizona vs. Houston updates, highlights from 2026 college basketball game

#2 Houston vs. #4 Arizona. UH looks to shake off a Monday night loss. The Cougars, if they want to be a 1-seed, have a big game they need to come out atop today.

Stay tuned to Pawd Slama Jama for coverage during and after the game! pic.twitter.com/3KK4zcNkVf

— Pawd Slama Jama (@PawdSlamaJama) February 21, 2026

Arizona enters as the No. 6 offense and No. 4 defense in the country. Houston ranks No. 10 offensively and No. 3 defensively per BPI.

Arizona vs. Houston grades out as the 9th-highest pregame matchup quality of the 2025–26 season.

Two top-10 units on both ends of the floor 😤 pic.twitter.com/YYLNXxe3DF

— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) February 21, 2026

For the first time in program history, No. 2 Houston will host a top-five showdown inside Fertitta Center when No. 4 Arizona visits at 3 p.m. Saturday in a game that carries major Big 12 implications.

The matchup features the top two teams in the conference standings, with the winner claiming sole possession of first place.

Though it marks the first home top-five game for the Cougars, Kelvin Sampson’s program is familiar with the spotlight. Houston owns a 5-4 record all-time in top-five matchups at all sites, including two appearances during the 2025 NCAA Final Four in San Antonio.

The Cougars (23-3) enter Saturday looking to rebound from a 70-67 loss at No. 6 Iowa State on Monday night. Freshman point guard Kingston Flemings scored 22 points with four 3-pointers, five rebounds and four assists in Ames, while senior guard Emanuel Sharp added 16 points with four 3s.

LIVE:Watch Arizona vs. Houston on the ESPN App

Freshman forward Chris Cenac grabbed a game-high 12 rebounds against the Cyclones and leads Houston with 7.6 boards per game, ranking among the Big 12’s top 10.

Flemings paces the Cougars with 16.6 points and 5.3 assists per contest, shooting 49.7% from the field. Sharp averages 16.5 points and recently passed Marcus Sasser as Houston’s all-time leader in 3-pointers.

Arizona (24-2) comes into the game after having a 23-0 streak snapped last week. Tommy Lloyd's team have lost two of the last three with a bounce back win over BYU on Wednesday night.

Houston has dominated at home, posting a 122-7 record inside Fertitta Center, including wins in 18 straight and 51 of its last 52 games.

Where to watch Arizona vs. Houston basketball

Date: Feb. 21
Time: 3 p.m. ET

The huge Big 12 matchup between the No. 2 Houston Cougars hosting the No. 4 Arizona Wildcats will tip-off at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, Feb. 21. This could be a conference championship matchup between the two powers.  

What channel is Arizona vs. Houston on?

TV: ABC
Live stream: ESPN App

Radio (Arizona): ESPN Xtra 81
Radio (Houston): KPRC 950 AM
Radio (SiriusXM): 81 (Arizona) / 200 (Houston)

The Cougars and Wildcats matchup can be caught nationally on ABC. The broadcast team features Jon Sciambi (play-by-play) and Fran Fraschilla (analyst). Fans looking to stream the action can do so via the ESPN App with a valid cable login.

More college basketball news:

• Adrian Autry buyout, contract details as Syracuse Orange coach
• Bruce Pearl sends warning to NBA teams about Kansas' Darryn Peterson
• AJ Dybantsa makes college basketball history never done by NBA stars
• John Calipari says college athletics is broken — Here’s his plan to fix it
• Texas Tech's March Madness hopes take major hit with JT Toppin injury

It's almost time. The biggest remaining game on the Iowa women's basketball team's schedule is nearly here.

On Sunday morning, thousands of Iowa fans will flock to Carver-Hawkeye Arena to see their 12th-ranked Hawkeyes take on No. 5 Michigan. There's so much on the line in this game for both teams, as this contest could decide crucial seeding for both the Big Ten and NCAA Tournaments.

Entering Sunday, Iowa is a game back of Michigan for second place in the Big Ten standings. The Haweyes are 12-3 in conference play, while the Wolverines are 13-2. An Iowa victory would bring them even with Michigan and give them a critical tiebreaker. A Michigan victory would put them two games ahead of Iowa with just a pair of games left in the regular season, all but securing a second-place finish.

With so much on the line, a sold-out crowd ready to explode, and a nationally televised matinee broadcast, this game is shaping up to be an all-timer. Here's what Iowa needs to do to come out on top:

Take care of the basketball

Michigan is the best team in the Big Ten at turning over its opponents. They force an astounding 22.7 turnovers per game, which includes nearly 12 steals per game. Forcing all those turnovers allows the Wolverines to get out in transition and pick up easy buckets. Those points can make all the difference in what figures to be a close game on Sunday.

Iowa needs to make sure they take care of the basketball. They average 15.1 turnovers per game this season, a mark in the middle of the conference. If the Hawkeyes commit fewer than 15 turnovers on Sunday, they should like their odds. But if the turnovers start to mount, this one could get out of hand. It may sound very simple, but the turnover numbers could easily decide this game.

Force Michigan to beat you from three

Michigan is an extremely well-rounded team with very few weaknesses. But, one of the things they don't do as well as most teams is shoot the three. This season, the Wolverines are the fifth-worst 3-point shooting team in the Big Ten, making 33.1% of their shots from behind the arc. In their four losses this season, Michigan shot a combined 26-of-87 (29.8%) from three.

The Hawkeyes need to force Michigan to win this game from beyond the arc. They're one of the best teams in the conference in the paint, which is where their game thrives. Iowa's goal should be to defend the paint and force kick outs. If Michigan hits a bunch of threes to win, you tip your cap. But, if this season is any indication, there's a decent chance that won't be the case.

Depth must show up

The Hawkeyes' depth has been tested this season, especially with Taylor McCabe's season-ending injury. In some games, the depth has been great. In others, they've been nonexistent. Sunday's game really needs to be one of those games where the entire roster shows up to play. Michigan is going to key in on Ava Heiden and Hannah Stuelke—assuming she plays—which will put a lot of pressure on Iowa's depth.

Taylor Stremlow will need to continue her recent breakout, as hitting some of the open looks from beyond the arc will force the defense to be more honest. Journey Houston has been fantastic as of late, and will be called upon to provide a spark off the bench.

And this would be a great game for five-star freshman Addie Deal to find a rhythm that she's been lacking lately. It'll be all hands on deck for Jan Jensen's team in this one if they want to walk out of Carver with a win.

Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Zach on X: @zach_hiney

This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Iowa women's basketball vs. Michigan: 3 keys to victory

Tampa Bay’s backfield is already facing questions this offseason, and a new offseason report adds another layer for fans to monitor.

According to JoeBucsFan.com, Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving underwent shoulder surgery after the season concluded. The issue stems from injuries that sidelined him for more than two months during the 2025 campaign. Irving missed seven games in the heart of the season while dealing with ankle and shoulder concerns before returning to finish the year, appearing in the final six games of the season while earning back his starting role.

The good news, per the report, is that the procedure is not expected to significantly affect his availability for the offseason program.

Irving burst onto the scene as a rookie with 1,122 rushing yards and an impressive 5.4 yards per carry average. His production dipped in 2025 to 588 rushing yards at 3.4 per attempt, though injuries clearly played a role in his performance in 2025.

With Rachaad White potentially departing in free agency, Irving is positioned as the likely starter heading into 2026, assuming his recovery stays on track and the Buccaneers don’t make a major addition.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Buccaneers RB Bucky Irving has offseason shoulder urgery

Liverpool Injury Crisis Deepens as Jaros Ruled Out for Season

Liverpool’s pursuit of momentum in the Premier League has become an exercise in resilience. Each week seems to bring fresh complications, and as the campaign edges towards its decisive phase, the strain on the squad has become increasingly evident.

Jeremie Frimpong has been absent since January 28 with a thigh problem and has missed four matches. He has returned to light training but will not feature against Nottingham Forest, with hopes pinned on a return for West Ham next week. Wataru Endo faces a longer spell out after suffering an ankle injury against Sunderland on February 11, an incident that required a stretcher. He is not expected back before May, and there remains a real possibility that he will not play again this season.

Alexander Isak continues his recovery from the broken leg and ankle sustained against Spurs on December 20. He has begun running on grass, yet a return to full training is projected for late March, with April more realistic for competitive action. Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni have already been ruled out for the season following knee injuries, while Stefan Bajcetic is training alone as he attempts to overcome recurring hamstring setbacks. Liverpool’s resources are being tested across the pitch.

Jaros Blow Adds to Goalkeeping Concerns

Now, Liverpool have suffered another setback, this time involving Vitezslav Jaros. The goalkeeper, on loan at Ajax, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining a serious knee injury in training.

Ajax confirmed the news in a statement: “Ajax goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros has been ruled out for the rest of the season.”

“The Amsterdam club’s shot-stopper sustained a serious knee injury during training today.”

“Medical examinations at the hospital have shown that surgery is required, meaning he will not feature again this season.”

Jaros made 26 appearances for Ajax this term, recording five clean sheets. For Liverpool, his development had been closely monitored, particularly given the competitive landscape at Anfield.

Competition at Liverpool Remains Intense

In December, Jaros reflected candidly on his ambitions. “If I say I’m satisfied, how can I improve?” he said.

“When I’ll be ready to become Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper — especially with two formidable competitors like Alisson Becker and Giorgi Mamardashvili — is hard to predict.”

“Taking their place isn’t easy.”

“But that’s ultimately the goal. And once I succeed, I want to win the Champions League.”

His time in the Netherlands had also left an impression. “I’m really pleasantly surprised about the quality in the Netherlands.”

“There are many great and big clubs in the Netherlands with quality players, which means many matches are close and difficult to win.”

“And the stadiums may not be as impressive as in the Premier League, but they’re still very nice.”

“And you hardly see any empty seats.”

For Liverpool, the loss of Jaros adds to a season shaped by enforced adaptation. As the Premier League race intensifies, depth and patience will be required in equal measure.

Real Madrid faced off against Osasuna at the El Sadar Stadium earlier this evening as they hoped to secure a good result on the road in La Liga. The Madrid giants made a slow start to the game and conceded the opening goal in the 38th minute when Ante Budimir scored from the penalty spot. Alvaro Arbeloa’s men were trailing 1-0 at the half-time break.

Vinicius Junior equalised for Los Blancos in the 73rd minute. However, Raul Garcia scored the winning goal for the home side in the 90th minute. The match ended with Real Madrid suffering a poor 2-1 loss away from home.

Let’s take a look at how each Real Madrid player fared during the clash against Osasuna.

He made two solid saves at the back but conceded twice this evening.

RB: Dani Carvajal – 6.5/10

Carvajal performed his defensive duties well and made one good chance in the final third.

CB: Raul Asencio – 6.5/10

He put his foot through the ball when he could and was a threat at the other end of the field.

CB: David Alaba – 6.5/10

Alaba did his fair share of defending, but it was not enough this evening.

PAMPLONA, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 21: Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Arda Gueler during the LaLiga EA Sports match between CA Osasuna and Real Madrid CF at Estadio El Sadar on February 21, 2026 in Pamplona, Spain. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

LB: Alvaro Carreras – 7/10

Carreras was a positive influence at both ends of the field.

RM: Federico Valverde – 7/10

He performed his defensive duties well and managed to secure an assist for setting up Vinicius Junior’s goal.

CM: Arda Guler – 6/10

Guler struggled to get a foothold in the game and was replaced in the 82nd minute.

CM: Aurelien Tchouameni – 7/10

He anchored the midfield well and was a good presence on the ball.

LM: Eduardo Camavinga – 6.5/10

Camavinga came back to defend when he could, but offered very little in the final third.

ST: Vinicius Junior – 7/10

He was a constant menace in the final third and was tidy with his passing.

ST: Kylian Mbappe – 6.5/10

Mbappe caught the eye at times up top, but there was no goal for him.

Substitutes:

RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold – 6/10

He made one key chance going forward.

RW: Brahim Diaz – 6/10

His impact on the game was minimal.

Following Bayern Munich’s win against Eintracht Frankfurt, the pressure was on Borussia Dortmund to get a result against RB Leipzig.

In such an important game in the context of Dortmund’s season, this was not the time for Niko Kovac’s side to struggle defensively. 

Leipzig saw a large portion of their chances come from the flanks, with both Yan Diomande and Brajan Gruda causing issues for the likes of Julian Ryerson and Daniel Svensson. When the wingers were able to put a cross in, the centre-backs would struggle to deal with clearing the ball, and that is how both of Leipzig’s goals were scored, in near identical fashion

Diomande was left one-on-one with Ryerson, managed to get to the byline and play a cross in which Christoph Baumgartner was able to divert in. The second time, it would be Raum who played the ball in, with the Austrian again at the end of it for his second of the game and to double Leipzig’s lead. 

Dortmund were a much better side in the second half, and got themselves back into the game when a Ryerson corner was turned into the net by Romulo for an own goal to make it 2-1.

The game would then transcend into a basketball game as Niko Kovac’s side looked for an equaliser, and the hosts were looking to extend their lead with Diomande being the source for most of Leipzig’s attacks in the second half. 

After several rather underwhelming substitutions from the visitors, it was a substitute who rescued a point when Fabio Silva’s goal in the 95th minute made it 2-2.

Before Silva’s goal, the gap between first and second was nine points; after the goal, it dropped down to…eight. 

The point is not good enough for any hope of Dortmund competing for the title. If you said a BVB title was at around 20% before this matchday, it has dropped down to 5% now. Kovac’s side will have to win next week against Bayern to bring the gap down to five points, then be perfect for the rest of the season and hope the league leaders drop points at least two more times. 

Considering how Dortmund have ridden their luck for most of this season, especially in recent weeks, this is not likely. 

The title race was ulitmately a pipe dream, and it was really just the friends we made along the way. 

RB Leipzig:

Maarten Vandevoordt (6), Ridle Baku (6), Castello Lukeba (5), Willi Orban (6), David Raum (6), Nicolas Seiwald (5) Xaver Schlager (5), Christoph Baumgartner (8), Brajan Gruda (7), Romulo (5), Yan Diomande (7)

Substitutes: Antonio Nusa (5), Conrad Harder (-), Ezechiel Banzuzi (-), Benjamin Henrichs (-), Max Finkgräfe (-)

Borussia Dortmund:

Gregor Kobel (6), Luca Reggiani (5), Waldemar Anton (5), Ramy Bensebaini (5), Julian Ryerson (6), Felix Nmecha (5), Marcel Sabitzer (5), Daniel Svensson (5), Maximilian Beier (6), Jobe Bellingham (6), Serhou Guirassy (5)

Substitutes: Julian Brandt (5), Yan Couto (5), Carney Chukwuemeka (5), Fabio Silva (6), Karim Adeyemi (5)

GGFN Player of the Match: Christoph Baumgartner (8)

The Austrian continues his incredible season with a first-half double. Baumgartner has made a habit of crashing the box from midfield for Leipzig this season, and he showed that again today, constantly appearing in positions a striker would usually be in. 

The 26-year-old now has 10 goals and six assists in 21 games for Leipzig, and has found a new lease of life under Ole Werner, after being freed from the shackles of being shoehorned to fit in Xavi Simons, Loïs Openda and Benjamin Seško.

GGFN | Jack Meenan

Serie A leaders Inter pulled themselves clear by ten points from second-placed Milan following a 2-0 victory over Lecce. 

The final whistle at the Via Del Mare on Saturday meant a seventh straight league victory for the Nerazzurri, who are now in pole position to lift the Scudetto this season. The three points from this match bring their tally to 64 points from 26 matches this campaign and Cristian Chivu’s men find some breathing space as their closest rivals Milan stay second on the table, yet distant with 54 points.

While the Rossoneri enter into Serie A action on Sunday against Parma, the 1-1 draw with Como midweek took the wind out of their sails. Massimiliano Allegri’s men emerged as potential Scudetto candidates in an earlier part of the season, but dropping points against Genoa, Fiorentina and Roma made Inter grab the opportunity to become league leaders with a cushion. 

Chivu’s troops had an uncharacteristic show in the Champions League during the week, when they lost 3-1 in the Arctic Circle against Bodo/Glimt. The second-leg of the two-legged playoff tie will be staged at the San Siro, and a comeback is very much on the cards. However, the defeat did not affect Inter in this outing as second-half goals from Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Manuel Akanji granted them a professional victory. 

Lecce fought well with their defence for seventy five minutes, frustrating Inter on numerous occasions but Chivu’s substitutions were on point to make the difference they were sent out for. It is back on the drawing board for the Salentini as they came into this fixture with consecutive victories. As for Inter, they keep marching on towards the title, and it will not be of much concern for them even if Milan cut their lead to seven points tomorrow.

Trambak Bhattacherjee | GIFN

In their latest high-profile acquisition, Zuffa Boxing revealed a deal with British superstar Conor Benn (24-1, 14 KOs). The promotion announced the huge signing via social media on Friday.

“The Destroyer” is coming off a one-sided, unanimous decision win over Chris Eubank Jr. in a November rematch of their bout from April of last year. We may not see a trilogy fight anytime soon, as Benn shut down any interest in a third meeting following the victory.

So, who will the native of London, England, face in his first bout under the Zuffa Boxing banner since he is open to bouts at different weights? We offer up seven options, including boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.

Callum Walsh

At 25 years of age, Callum Walsh is rising rapidly as one of the top prospects in the sport. Through 16 fights, the native of Cork, Ireland, has yet to taste defeat. In January, Walsh overcame a knockdown in the sixth round to defeat Carlos Ocampo by unanimous decision. It was the only time “King” had hit the canvas in his four-year professional career.

Manny Pacquiao

“Pacman” still aims to capture a championship title and isn’t ready to hang up the gloves just yet. Manny Pacquiao fell short of that milestone in a draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios last July. The 2025 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee is set to return for an exhibition match against Ruslan Provodnikov in April. At 47 years old, it would not be surprising if he fights once more, and it could come for Dana White and Zuffa Boxing.

Carlos Ocampo

“Chema” took a wide unanimous decision loss against Walsh in January. However, the 14-year veteran had won three consecutive fights by stoppage before his last outing. Carlos Ocampo displayed some of his power as he connected with a left hook that caused Walsh’s gloves to touch the canvas for a knockdown. Ocampo was handed a loss for the first time since a knockout defeat to Tim Tszyu in June 2023. He is another strong option already inside the promotion to face Conor Benn.

Misael Rodriguez

“El Chino” is coming off an impressive fourth-round TKO victory against Austin Deanda in January. Misael Rodriguez overwhelmed Deanda with combinations, outlanding him 91-53. The win was the 2016 Rio de Janeiro bronze medalist’s eighth stoppage victory through 16 professional contests. Getting a huge fight with Benn next is a real possibility.

Shakur Stevenson

Shakur Stevenson moved up to 140 pounds for a clash against Teofimo Lopez in January. Stevenson’s skills were on a different level, as he out boxed Lopez en route to a lopsided unanimous decision win. He claimed the WBO and Ring junior welterweight titles in the bout, becoming a four-division champion.

Shortly after his win, Stevenson called out Benn, who sat ringside. A heated altercation followed, with both calling for a showdown. The biggest issues is Stevenson would need to get out of his Matchroom deal to make a fight happen.

Serhii Bohachuk

Serhii Bohachuk defeated former WBA (Regular) welterweight titleholder Radzhab Butaev by split decision on Feb. 1. In a competitive and hard-fought battle, Bohachuk’s output proved to be the difference. He landed a total of 317 punches, compared to Butaev’s 225 total. Through Bohachuk’s 27 wins, only three have gone the full distance. He could be an intriguing option for Benn’s first bout in Zuffa.

Ryan Garcia

“King Ryan” will take on Mario Barrios for the 147-pound WBC title on Saturday night. Ryan Garcia has emerged as the favorite heading into the fight as he seeks his first victory since a knockout win against Oscar Duarte in December 2023. Benn expressed his interest in a clash with the winner of Garcia vs. Barrios. If Zuffa can get him, that would be another big win for the developing brand.

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• Floyd Mayweather Unretires at 48 Years Old: 5 Opponent Options, Including Jake Paul
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United Airlines Flight UA2745, a Boeing 737-900ER traveling from Denver International Airport to San Jose, was forced to declare an emergency after a landing gear failure just moments before its scheduled landing. This terrifying incident left passengers on edge, as the flight’s smooth journey across the skies turned into a dramatic fight for safety. The United Airlines Boeing 737-900ER, which had departed Denver with high hopes for a smooth arrival, was suddenly facing a life-threatening mechanical issue that forced the crew to act swiftly.

As the aircraft descended towards San Jose, the landing gear malfunctioned, triggering a swift emergency response. The crew of Flight UA2745 quickly declared an emergency and performed a critical go-around, circling the airport to assess the situation and ensure the safety of everyone onboard. The landing gear failure created a tense atmosphere, but the United Airlines crew’s expertise and quick thinking ensured that disaster was averted.

This shocking incident is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel. United Airlines and its Boeing 737-900ER aircraft faced a crisis in the skies that could have easily escalated. Continue reading to discover how United Airlines navigated this terrifying situation and how it all ended safely.

In a shocking turn of events, United Airlines flight UA2745, traveling from Denver to San Jose, declared an emergency after a landing gear failure forced the crew to perform a dangerous go-around. This nail-biting incident, which could have ended in disaster, highlights the critical safety measures taken by airlines and crews in the USA to prevent tragedy. Fortunately, thanks to the quick thinking of the crew and some luck, the passengers arrived safely.

A Routine Flight Turns into a Nightmare

The Boeing 737-900ER, with registration N34460, departed Denver International Airport on the evening of February 20th, 2026, at precisely 7:42 PM MST. Everything seemed routine for the first leg of the flight. With a delay of only 30 minutes on the tarmac, the flight was cruising smoothly at an altitude of 30,000 feet. However, what was supposed to be a standard journey across the United States took a terrifying twist.

The aircraft was approaching San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) when the flight crew noticed something was seriously wrong with the landing gear. The last-minute complication triggered alarms, forcing the pilots to make a split-second decision that would change the course of the flight.

United Airlines Crew’s Quick Thinking Saves Lives

In a situation that could have been catastrophic, the flight crew responded swiftly and efficiently. The pilots immediately aborted the initial landing attempt, triggering a “go-around.” This manoeuvre is a common protocol when landing is unsafe due to various issues, like a malfunctioning landing gear. With time ticking, the crew declared an emergency using the Squawk 7700 code to notify Air Traffic Control of the gravity of the situation.

Circling above the airport at 6,000 feet, the crew performed a series of diagnostic checks to ensure the landing gear could be safely deployed. Tension in the cockpit was palpable, as every second counted. With the emergency fully declared, the pilots ran through their emergency checklists, ensuring the safety of everyone on board. It was a true testament to their professionalism and skill under pressure.

The Tense Wait for Safe Arrival

After what must have felt like an eternity, the crew confirmed that the aircraft was stable enough for another landing attempt. With the gear issue resolved, the United Airlines Boeing 737-900ER made its final approach. At 9:36 PM PST, the aircraft safely landed on Runway 30L, just 30 minutes behind schedule. Passengers, who had been on edge for the better part of two hours, were finally able to breathe a sigh of relief. They had been through a tense experience that none of them would soon forget.

The United Airlines flight was able to park at Gate 7 without further incident. The emergency, which could have had devastating consequences, was handled with professionalism and skill, ensuring the safety of all on board. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the importance of safety protocols in the US aviation sector.

What Caused the Landing Gear Malfunction?

The cause of the malfunction that triggered this emergency is still under investigation. However, one thing is clear: the landing gear indication error prevented the aircraft from safely completing its landing approach. United Airlines has promised a thorough maintenance inspection of the aircraft to pinpoint the exact cause of the failure. This type of mechanical malfunction, though rare, can lead to severe consequences, which is why the crew’s swift response was so critical.

For now, the Boeing 737-900ER is expected to undergo a detailed maintenance check before returning to service. United Airlines has assured passengers that they are fully committed to ensuring the safety of their flights, which remains a top priority for the US airline industry.

The Bigger Picture: How Safe Are US Flights?

While this particular incident ended without harm, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the US aviation industry. Despite modern technology, advanced aircraft systems, and rigorous training, no flight is ever completely free from risk. This incident underscores the importance of continual safety upgrades and the expertise of flight crews across the United States.

Emergency landings, go-arounds, and other safety measures are a regular part of aviation, but when they happen, they can be life-altering. The US aviation sector, from airlines to regulatory bodies, continues to evolve with the goal of providing the safest travel experience possible for passengers.

However, these incidents also raise questions about the state of US tourism and air travel infrastructure. As more passengers flock to US airports and travel across the country, incidents like this serve as reminders that while aviation technology has come a long way, the unpredictable nature of air travel remains. Passengers must continue to trust in the capabilities of the airlines and the professionalism of the flight crews who are trained to handle such critical situations.

United Airlines: What’s Next for the Boeing 737?

Following the emergency, United Airlines has stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that the Boeing 737-900ER is thoroughly checked. As part of its commitment to safety, the airline will also examine all safety protocols to prevent similar issues in the future. Passengers are encouraged to remain confident in their flights with United Airlines, which remains a trusted name in the US aviation industry.

US Aviation Safety: A Continued Commitment

The US aviation sector has always been known for its commitment to safety, and this emergency situation is just one example of how airlines, like United Airlines, continuously adapt to new challenges. From cutting-edge technology to trained professionals, every measure is taken to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers. As the US tourism industry continues to recover, this incident proves that safety remains the top priority for US airlines.

Mediterranean cruises have long been a favorite for global travellers. From the whitewashed streets of Santorini to the bustling ports of Athens, Greece is a dream destination. But starting in 2025, cruise passengers need to account for a new addition: the Greek cruise passenger fee. This fee is aimed at supporting sustainable tourism and maintaining the beautiful destinations that attract millions every year.

What Is the Greek Cruise Passenger Fee?

The Greek cruise passenger fee is a mandatory charge collected from all passengers who disembark at Greek ports. The fee is applied per person and is intended to help fund local infrastructure, environmental protection, and tourism services. While modest, it is important for travellers to budget for it when planning their cruise itinerary.

Unlike traditional port fees, this fee is handled directly by cruise lines, meaning travellers do not need to pay cash at the docks. Instead, it is automatically added to the onboard account after each stop in a Greek port.

How Much Does the Fee Cost?

The fee varies depending on the port and the season. Popular destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos carry higher charges, particularly during peak summer months. Other ports across Greece have smaller fees.

Here’s a general guide:

• High Season (June–September): €20 per person for Mykonos and Santorini; €5 for other ports
• Shoulder Season (April–May, October): €12 per person for Mykonos and Santorini; €3 for other ports
• Off-Peak (January–March, November–December): €4 for Mykonos and Santorini; €1 for other ports

Understanding the seasonal pricing allows travellers to plan better and avoid surprises, especially for families or larger groups.

Why Greece Introduced the Fee

Greece receives millions of cruise visitors every year. While tourism is vital for the economy, it can also strain local infrastructure and natural sites. The new cruise passenger fee is part of the country’s broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism.

Funds from the fee go toward maintaining ports, protecting historical sites, and supporting environmental programs. This initiative aligns with similar efforts seen in other European destinations, where small fees help balance tourism and conservation.

What Travellers Need to Know

1. You Only Pay If You Disembark
   Passengers who remain on the ship during a port stop do not incur the fee for that visit. This can be useful if a stop is not on your priority list.
2. Budget Planning Is Key
   The fee may seem small, but it can add up. A family of four visiting Santorini in July could pay around €80 just for the cruise passenger fee. Planning for this cost ensures a smoother experience.
3. Check Your Cruise Line Policies
   Each cruise line may handle the fee slightly differently, but all are legally required to collect it. Reviewing the policies before departure helps avoid confusion.
4. Seasonal Savings
   Travelling during shoulder or off-peak seasons reduces the fee. Additionally, ports are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Travel Tips for Cruise Passengers in Greece

Plan Ahead: Research the ports on your itinerary and estimate the total fees for your trip. Factor this into your overall budget to avoid surprises.

Optimize Your Stops: Consider which ports are most important to you. If a stop is optional, staying onboard might save money and give you extra time to enjoy ship activities.

Embrace Sustainable Travel: Understanding that these fees contribute to preserving Greece’s islands and historic sites adds value to your trip. It supports local communities and protects the environment for future visitors.

Enjoy the Experience: Despite the additional fee, Greece offers unmatched experiences. From ancient ruins in Athens to breathtaking sunsets in Santorini, the memories are worth every euro.

Looking Ahead for Global Travellers

The introduction of the Greek cruise passenger fee reflects a global trend in sustainable tourism. Many popular destinations are now implementing small charges to maintain infrastructure, protect the environment, and enhance visitor experiences.

For cruise passengers, the key is awareness and preparation. With proper planning, travellers can navigate the fee seamlessly while enjoying the rich culture, history, and beauty that Greek ports offer.

Ultimately, the fee helps preserve the very experiences that make a Mediterranean cruise so special. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant local markets, and world-famous cuisine, Greek cruises remain a top choice for travellers worldwide.

In the contemporary landscape of urban development, the intersection of physical activity and travel has emerged as a significant catalyst for regional prosperity. Sports tourism has been identified as a vital pillar for the expansion of Ho Chi Minh City, particularly as the metropolitan area seeks to diversify its offerings beyond traditional sightseeing. By hosting high-profile international athletic events, the city is positioned to capture a growing demographic of health-conscious travelers. This strategic focus is designed to stimulate economic growth through increased occupancy in the hospitality sector and heightened activity within the retail and service industries. As urban development continues to modernize the city’s infrastructure, the integration of marathon competitions into the annual calendar is viewed as a primary driver for attracting both domestic and foreign visitors.

The Phenomenon of Marathons and Urban Vitality

The city was recently transformed into a vibrant stage for the 7th Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon, an event that drew nearly 15,000 participants. This massive gathering was not merely a display of physical endurance but a significant logistical achievement that highlighted the city’s capacity for large-scale management. It is observed that these races serve as more than just competitions; they are instruments for showcasing the architectural landmarks and cultural vibrancy of the southern metropolis.

Athletes from all corners of the globe were welcomed, with representative runners arriving from dozens of different countries. By routing the course through various districts and past iconic heritage sites, the city’s unique identity was projected to a global audience. The influx of participants and their accompanying supporters resulted in a measurable surge in demand for local accommodations. Hotels in the central districts were reported to have reached high occupancy levels, while local eateries and transport services experienced a concurrent rise in patronage.

Expanding the Scope of Sports-Related Travel

Beyond the realm of long-distance running, a diverse array of athletic disciplines is being utilized to enhance the appeal of the region. International tournaments involving golf, football, and martial arts are being integrated into the tourism portfolio of the city. These events are curated to ensure that the visitor experience is holistic, combining the excitement of the competition with the leisure of a vacation.

It is noted by industry experts that sports tourists typically possess a higher spending capacity compared to average leisure travelers. The extended duration of their stay, often required for acclimatization and post-event recovery, ensures a steady stream of revenue for local businesses. Furthermore, the ripple effect of such spending is felt across various sectors, from equipment suppliers to wellness centers and massage parlors. The strategic alignment of the tourism department with sports federations is seen as a necessary step to ensure the sustainability of this trend.

Infrastructure Development and Global Competitiveness

To maintain the momentum generated by these events, significant investments are being directed toward the improvement of sports facilities and public infrastructure. The renovation of stadiums, the creation of dedicated cycling lanes, and the enhancement of pedestrian walkways are all prioritized within the city’s master plan. These improvements are intended to make the environment more conducive to hosting world-class championships.

The city is being marketed as a premier destination within Southeast Asia, competing with other regional hubs that have long established their reputations in the sports sector. By offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, Ho Chi Minh City is carving out a niche that appeals to professional athletes and amateur enthusiasts alike. The passive observation of this growth suggests that the city is successfully transitioning from a transit point into a primary destination for specialized travel.

Cultural Integration and the Participant Experience

A key element in the success of these athletic festivals is the seamless integration of local culture into the event programming. Participants are not only provided with a race bib but are also offered glimpses into the culinary and artistic heritage of the region. Food festivals, traditional music performances, and craft exhibitions are frequently organized in conjunction with the main sporting activities.

This multifaceted approach ensures that the memories carried away by visitors are rich and varied. When runners traverse the streets, they are greeted by the sights and sounds of a city that is simultaneously ancient and cutting-edge. The warmth of the local population and the efficiency of the event staff contribute to a positive overall impression, which is essential for fostering repeat visits. It is believed that the word-of-mouth promotion generated by satisfied participants is more effective than any traditional advertising campaign.

Future Perspectives on Sustainable Growth

As the city looks toward the future, the focus remains on the sustainability of the sports tourism model. Efforts are being made to ensure that the environmental impact of large-scale events is minimized through waste management initiatives and the promotion of green transport options. The long-term goal is to establish a calendar that provides a consistent flow of events throughout the year, rather than relying on a few peak periods.

Collaboration between the public and private sectors is being intensified to create innovative packages that link race registration with hotel bookings and guided tours. By streamlining the experience for the traveler, the city is making it easier for international visitors to choose Vietnam as their next competitive venue. The evolution of Ho Chi Minh City into a global sports hub is a testament to the vision and resilience of its leadership and its people.

Cruise vacations usually highlight famous landmarks, bustling ports, or tropical beaches.
Occasionally, a voyage uncovers stories far deeper than sightseeing.

Recently, a cruise ship undertook a supply mission to a remote island, home to fewer than 40 residents.
This journey was not about excursions or entertainment.
It provided essential food and goods to a community completely dependent on infrequent shipments.

For global travelers, this mission offers a rare glimpse into the realities of isolated islands.
It also highlights how tourism can be mindful and supportive rather than disruptive.

Life on One of the Most Remote Islands

The island is among the most isolated inhabited locations worldwide.
No airport services it, meaning all access is by sea.

Residents rely heavily on supply ships that bring fresh food, medicines, and daily essentials.
Weather conditions frequently delay these deliveries, creating unique challenges for the community.

Government records from official UK overseas territory sources indicate that remote islands have strict rules for incoming vessels.
These rules ensure safety, biosecurity, and that supplies reach the residents efficiently.

Travelers can learn from this: visiting remote islands requires respect for local logistics and patience for natural delays.

When Cruise Ships Serve Communities

On this mission, the cruise ship delivered a shipment of essentials, including fresh produce and pantry staples.
Local authorities supervised distribution to ensure fairness and safety.

Cruise vessels often have the capacity to assist in humanitarian or logistical missions when planned supply ships are delayed.
This demonstrates that cruise travel is not limited to leisure.
It can also play a meaningful role in supporting small, isolated communities.

Passengers who witnessed the delivery saw first-hand how tourism intersects with community needs.
It was a reminder that travel can positively impact people beyond the visitor economy.

Responsible Tourism in Practice

Sustainable tourism is a growing priority worldwide.
It emphasizes respecting local resources, minimizing environmental impacts, and supporting residents.

Government-backed tourism policies for remote islands recommend that cruise passengers limit shore visits and avoid overwhelming fragile communities.
On this voyage, passengers remained on board, observing procedures and learning about local life.

For travelers, this mission is a case study in ethical cruising.
It shows that tourism can balance exploration with responsibility.

Lessons for Future Travelers

Remote islands attract adventurous tourists seeking untouched nature and authentic cultures.
However, these destinations often have limited resources, infrastructure, and emergency support.

Travel advisories stress that visitors must understand their influence on small communities.
Simple actions, like following local guidelines and choosing tours that respect local life, matter greatly.

This supply mission illustrates that cruise itineraries can offer more than sightseeing.
They can provide educational experiences that inform travelers about resilience, self-reliance, and global connectivity.

Why Remote Islands Fascinate Tourists

Remote destinations captivate travelers with their landscapes, wildlife, and distinct cultures.
Yet they are also delicate ecosystems.

Official tourism boards emphasize that limited accessibility helps protect heritage, while also increasing dependence on occasional shipments.
Cruise passengers witnessing these realities gain insight into the daily lives of isolated communities.
It turns travel into a meaningful encounter rather than a passive holiday.

Redefining Cruise Travel

This mission challenges the traditional view of cruises as purely recreational.
Ships can act as lifelines for communities far from major ports.

When managed responsibly, tourism supports rather than burdens residents.
For travelers, it reinforces the importance of choosing cruise lines that adhere to sustainable and ethical practices.

The story shows that cruise travel can educate, connect, and benefit both visitors and the host community.

Final Takeaways for Global Travelers

The cruise ship supply mission to a remote island is more than a logistical story.
It is a reminder of the responsibility that comes with visiting fragile destinations.

Travelers who plan trips to isolated islands must prioritize awareness, respect, and support for local life.
Every journey can leave a positive mark if approached thoughtfully.

For tourists seeking extraordinary experiences, visiting remote islands can offer unforgettable landscapes, cultural insights, and opportunities to witness resilience firsthand.
Responsible travel ensures these unique communities remain vibrant and supported for generations to come.

Travel Disruption Strikes Newark Liberty International Airport as Spirit, United, Jazz, El Al, Lufthansa, and other major airlines face 6 cancellations and 23 delays for flights from the United States, Israel, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe. The disruption is causing significant travel chaos for passengers flying from these regions, affecting both domestic and international routes. Major airports, including those in Orlando, San Francisco, and Tel Aviv, are experiencing delays, with some international destinations like Montreal and Punta Cana also impacted. These cancellations and delays are creating headaches for travelers, many of whom are now scrambling to find alternative flights.

The delays span multiple airlines, including Spirit, United, Jazz, and Lufthansa, with some airlines reporting high numbers of affected flights. As a result, Newark Liberty International Airport has become a major hub for disruption today. Passengers are advised to stay informed on their flight statuses and check with their airlines for updates.

Delays and Cancellations Overview at Newark Liberty

In total, Newark Liberty International Airport has reported 23 delays and 6 cancellations today. These delays span both domestic and international flights, with travelers heading to and from major cities across the United States, as well as international destinations like Tel Aviv and Montreal.

The delays have particularly impacted several major U.S. hubs, including Orlando (MCO), San Francisco (SFO), and Tampa (TPA). International routes have been disrupted as well, with flights heading to destinations like Ben Gurion International (TLV) in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Montreal-Trudeau (YUL) in Canada facing delays.

Airlines Affected by Disruptions

Several major airlines are involved in today’s disruptions at Newark Liberty International Airport, including:

• Spirit Airlines: The airline has had 3 cancellations and 10 delays, mainly affecting flights from the U.S. to Florida and other popular vacation destinations.
• United Airlines: One of the largest carriers at Newark, United has faced significant delays with 38 flights impacted.
• Lufthansa: A smaller number of Lufthansa flights have been delayed as well, with 1 delay reported.
• JetBlue: 5 delays have been reported from JetBlue flights, mostly from New York to various U.S. and international cities.
• SAS, GoJet, and American Airlines: These airlines have also seen delays affecting their flights to destinations across the U.S. and Europe.

Analysis of Affected Airports and Destinations

U.S. Airports Impacted

The following U.S. airports have experienced significant disruptions, with Newark being a central hub for many of these flights:

• Orlando International (MCO): 1 cancellation and 1 delay.
• San Francisco International (SFO): 3 delays.
• Tampa International (TPA): 3 delays.
• Los Angeles International (LAX) and Cancun International (CUN): 2 delays each.
• Charlotte/Douglas International (CLT) and Cleveland-Hopkins International (CLE) have also experienced disruptions, with delays reported.

International Routes Affected

International passengers are also feeling the impact of the delays:

• Ben Gurion International (TLV): 1 cancellation and no delays.
• Montreal-Trudeau (YUL): 1 cancellation and no delays.
• Punta Cana International (PUJ): 3 delays, which is significant for travelers heading to the Caribbean.
• Luis Munoz Marin International (SJU): 2 delays were also reported.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

For passengers impacted by the disruptions at Newark Liberty International Airport, there are several steps to take:

• Check Flight Status Regularly: Flight statuses can change rapidly, so it’s essential to check with the airline for updates on cancellations and delays.
• Rebook Flights: If your flight has been cancelled, contact your airline immediately to rebook on the next available flight. Many airlines allow you to change your flight without extra charges if you’re rebooked due to weather-related or operational issues.
• Seek Compensation: Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for meals, hotel stays, or other expenses. Check the airline’s policy or speak with customer service for more information.
• Prepare for Extended Waits: If your flight is delayed, plan for longer waits at the airport. Bring snacks, entertainment, and any necessary medications, as delays can last several hours.

Conclusion

With a total of 6 cancellations and 23 delays at Newark Liberty International Airport, today’s disruptions are causing widespread travel issues. Affected airports and airlines span the U.S. and international routes, with numerous major destinations impacted. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight statuses, reach out to their airlines for rebooking options, and be prepared for longer-than-usual waits.

Source: FlightAware and affected airports

The pristine slopes of the Himalayas are currently serving as the backdrop for a massive sporting movement, as the Khelo India Winter Games are utilized to breathe new life into the tourism sector of Gulmarg. This high-profile event is recognized as a cornerstone for the development of sports tourism within the region of Jammu and Kashmir. By attracting top-tier athletes and thousands of enthusiasts, the winter sports infrastructure is being showcased to a national and international audience. This initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the local administration to ensure that the natural potential of the valley is fully realized.

A Strategic Push for Regional Tourism

The revitalization of the local economy is being driven by the influx of visitors who have gathered to witness the fourth edition of this prestigious competition. It is observed that the hospitality industry in Gulmarg has been significantly bolstered, with hotels and local businesses reporting high occupancy rates. The narrative of the region is being reshaped through the lens of athletic excellence and adventure. Every year, the geographical advantages of the Pir Panjal range are leveraged to host events such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey. This strategic focus on sports is intended to transition Gulmarg from a traditional sightseeing destination into a world-class hub for competitive winter disciplines.

Enhancing Infrastructure and Facilities

The development of international-standard facilities has been prioritized by the authorities to accommodate the requirements of professional athletes. Slopes are being meticulously maintained, and modern equipment is being deployed to ensure the safety and success of the participants. The role of the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council is highlighted in the seamless execution of these arrangements. By investing in high-quality ski lifts, grooming machines, and coaching clinics, a sustainable ecosystem for winter sports is being created. These improvements are not merely temporary fixtures for the duration of the games but are intended to remain as permanent assets for the promotion of tourism throughout the winter months.

Empowerment of Local Athletes and Youth

A platform for local talent is being provided by the Khelo India framework, allowing youth from Jammu and Kashmir to compete against the best athletes from across the country. It is believed that the exposure gained during these games is instrumental in fostering a culture of fitness and professional sportsmanship among the younger generation. Training programs are being implemented to identify and nurture raw talent from the remote corners of the valley. By placing local stars in the national spotlight, a sense of pride and aspiration is being cultivated. This focus on human capital ensures that the benefits of the sporting event extend beyond the physical infrastructure and into the social fabric of the community.

Economic Ripples Across the Valley

The economic impact of the event is being felt far beyond the ski tracks. Employment opportunities are being generated for local guides, instructors, and transport operators. Traditional crafts and local cuisine are also being promoted as part of the cultural exchange that occurs when athletes from diverse states congregate in the mountains. The synergy between sports and commerce is being carefully managed to ensure that the wealth generated by tourism is distributed among the local populace. The presence of national media and digital influencers is being utilized to broadcast the beauty and safety of the region, thereby dispuring any negative perceptions and inviting future investment.

Safety Measures and Environmental Stewardship

A high level of coordination is being maintained between various departments to ensure the safety of all attendees. Disaster management teams and medical professionals are being stationed at strategic intervals along the slopes to provide immediate assistance if required. Furthermore, the ecological sensitivity of the Himalayan region is being respected through the implementation of eco-friendly practices during the event. Waste management protocols are being strictly followed to preserve the pristine nature of Gulmarg. It is emphasized by the organizers that the long-term viability of sports tourism is dependent on the preservation of the natural environment that makes these games possible.

The Future of Winter Sports in India

As the closing ceremonies approach, the success of the current edition is being viewed as a stepping stone for even larger international competitions. Plans are being formulated to pitch Gulmarg as a potential venue for Asian-level winter events. The momentum generated by the Khelo India initiative is being harnessed to attract private sponsors and international sporting bodies. It is envisioned that with continued support and infrastructure upgrades, the valley will eventually become synonymous with global winter athletics. The legacy of these games is expected to endure, ensuring that Gulmarg remains a premier destination for those seeking both professional challenges and breathtaking natural beauty.

As of February 20, 2026, authorities in Switzerland, Austria, and France have issued urgent alerts due to significant avalanche danger following a series of heavy winter storms. These countries are now facing Level 4 (High) and Level 5 (Very High) danger ratings in various Alpine regions, prompting local governments to take precautionary measures and issue travel warnings. The unstable snowpack, coupled with persistent storms, has created a perilous environment, particularly in popular ski resorts and mountain routes.

Who Is Affected by the Avalanche Risk?

Avalanche conditions have placed large portions of the Alpine regions of Switzerland, Austria, and France under serious threat. These countries have been monitoring the situation closely, issuing severe warnings to locals and visitors alike. The regions under the highest threat are:

• Switzerland: The Cantons of Valais and Graubünden are at Danger Level 4 (High), with Level 3 (Considerable) ratings across much of the rest of the country, including Central Switzerland and the Bernese Oberland.
• Austria: In Tyrol and Vorarlberg, the avalanche risk is also rated at Level 4 (High), following a string of avalanche incidents, including fatal ones in St. Anton am Arlberg, Nauders, and Klösterle.
• France: The Northern Alps, including popular resorts such as Val d’Isère and Tignes, are at Danger Level 5 (Very High), the highest possible rating. Other areas, such as Savoie, Haute-Savoie, Isère, and Hautes-Alpes, are at Level 4 (High).

These areas have experienced conditions where avalanches can occur spontaneously, without the need for external triggers, putting all travel activities in danger.

What Caused the Avalanche Danger?

The avalanches in these regions are driven by a combination of factors that forecasters have described as a “deadly recipe” for extreme danger:

1. Persistent Weak Layers

Earlier snowfalls, especially from early January 2026, have led to the development of unstable layers beneath the recent snow. These older, weaker snow layers are being overloaded by heavy snowfall from the most recent storms, creating the perfect conditions for large avalanches to be triggered.

2. Heavy Snowfall from Recent Storms

Two major storms, Storm Nils and its predecessor, brought more than a meter of fresh snow to the region in just a few days. This significant snow accumulation has added immense weight to the already unstable snowpack, further destabilizing the snow layers and increasing the risk of avalanches.

3. Wind Slabs

Strong winds have compounded the problem by creating thick “wind slabs” of snow that rest on top of the unstable layers. These wind slabs can slide easily under the right conditions, often triggered by the weight of a skier or snowboarder.

Together, these elements have created an environment where avalanches are highly likely and very dangerous for anyone caught in the affected regions.

What Are the Current Danger Levels?

The avalanche risk levels for February 2026, as outlined by national weather agencies and avalanche experts, include:

• Switzerland: The Cantons of Valais and Graubünden are rated at Danger Level 4 (High), with experts warning that avalanches can be triggered very easily. Authorities have already begun preemptive road closures in these areas, particularly along exposed mountain passes and high-altitude routes. Many other alpine regions in Switzerland are at Danger Level 3 (Considerable).
• Austria: In Tyrol and Vorarlberg, avalanche danger is rated at Level 4 (High), with more than 30 avalanche incidents recorded on February 18 alone. Tragically, at least five fatalities have been confirmed, primarily in St. Anton am Arlberg, Nauders, and Klösterle.
• France: Météo-France has issued its highest possible rating of Danger Level 5 (Very High) for Val d’Isère and Tignes, as well as other areas in the Northern Alps. Other regions, such as Savoie, Haute-Savoie, and Hautes-Alpes, remain at Level 4 (High). The French authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and closed entire ski areas.

What Measures Are Being Taken to Protect Travelers?

Authorities across all three countries have issued clear guidelines to mitigate the risks of these hazardous avalanche conditions:

Travel Restrictions and Closures

• Switzerland: Roads and access paths in high-risk areas have been closed, and many mountain passes have been shut down. Local authorities have issued warnings about exposed transportation routes, urging travelers to avoid non-essential travel through affected areas.
• Austria: Public transport systems, including rail services, are operating at reduced speeds through avalanche-prone areas, particularly in Tyrol. Airport shuttle services from Innsbruck are being rerouted to Munich due to road hazards.
• France: Entire ski resorts have been closed, including Val d’Isère and Tignes, as the avalanche risk reaches unprecedented levels. Local authorities have imposed a blanket advisory to stay indoors and avoid traveling in avalanche-prone areas.

Emergency Response and Assistance

• Emergency Services: In all three countries, local police and mountain rescue teams are on high alert, prepared to assist those stranded or at risk. Emergency shelters and supplies are being set up in affected regions.
• Monitoring: Local agencies are continually monitoring snow conditions using real-time data from the European Avalanche Warning Service (EAWS). These updates are available to the public, with advisories updated regularly.

How Are Skiers and Snowboarders Affected?

As expected, the most affected by the avalanche danger are those involved in off-piste skiing or snowboarding. These activities are particularly hazardous under the current conditions, with authorities strongly advising against backcountry skiing. Skiers and snowboarders are urged to stay on marked, open trails and adhere to all safety regulations set by resort management.

Travel Alerts

The U.S. Embassies in Bern, Vienna, and Paris have coordinated efforts to issue alerts for American travelers. The embassies have emphasized that tourists should monitor local weather and avalanche advisories, particularly in the affected ski regions, and comply with all local restrictions.

Recommended Safety Gear

Travelers who must travel through Alpine corridors or affected regions are advised to carry snow chains for vehicles and ensure they are equipped with emergency supplies. In case of road closures or accidents, having the necessary safety equipment could be life-saving.

How Long Will the Danger Last?

Aviation and weather experts have stated that this situation could persist until early March 2026, as the current La Niña weather pattern continues to bring intense winter storms to Europe. While conditions are expected to improve in the coming days, the avalanche danger will likely remain high until the snow stabilizes and the storm systems pass.

What Are the Long-Term Impacts?

This avalanche crisis could have significant long-term impacts on the Alpine tourism industry. Ski resorts may be forced to delay or cancel bookings as the snow levels stabilize, while transportation systems in affected regions may face extended disruptions.

Furthermore, the fatalities reported in Austria have underscored the life-threatening risks posed by the current avalanche conditions. While experts continue to monitor the situation, travelers and locals alike must prioritize safety above all else.

Conclusion: Immediate Action Required

The avalanche danger across Switzerland, Austria, and France remains extreme as winter storms continue to cause widespread instability in snow conditions. Travel restrictions, closures, and emergency responses are in place across affected areas, and travelers are urged to heed warnings and stay informed through official channels.

With the risk expected to persist in the coming weeks, all individuals in the Alps, whether skiing, hiking, or simply traveling, are strongly advised to follow safety guidelines, avoid high-risk areas, and carry proper safety equipment. The avalanche season of 2026 is proving to be one of the most dangerous in recent memory, and caution is paramount for anyone planning to visit or travel through the Alpine regions.

Anguilla emerges as a premier tourism hotspot through a collaboration between Zemi Beach House and AnguillAir, offering complimentary roundtrip flights from Newark for qualifying stays. Guests booking three or more nights at the Shoal Bay East resort receive nonstop service to Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport. This package streamlines access to Anguilla‘s pristine shores, enhancing tourism appeal for Northeast travelers.

The deal profoundly impacts Anguilla tourism by slashing travel costs and time, bypassing traditional St. Maarten connections. More visitors will flock to local beaches and eateries, invigorating the economy on this serene island. Tourism officials anticipate sustained growth through such innovations.

Resort Excellence

Zemi Beach House, nestled on six acres of Anguilla‘s famed Shoal Bay East, blends modern luxury with island traditions. Oceanfront suites and residences feature balconies overlooking turquoise waters, private pools, and direct beach access. The property’s Thai House Spa offers ancient wellness rituals in a historic setting.

This luxury haven elevates Anguilla tourism by attracting high-end guests who extend stays and explore beyond. Dining at twenty Knots emphasizes fresh seafood, while the Rhum Room curates Caribbean spirits, drawing culinary tourists. Enhanced occupancy boosts neighboring businesses.

Nonstop Connectivity

AnguillAir, powered by BermudAir’s Embraer jets, provides direct Newark to Anguilla flights, landing visitors minutes from Zemi Beach House. The ten-minute drive to Shoal Bay East enables same-day relaxation on powdery sands. Bookings via the airline site integrate airfare into resort packages.

Improved air links transform Anguilla tourism, making the island viable for short escapes and increasing arrivals. Tourism in East End thrives as flyers prioritize uncrowded beaches over crowded hubs. Government strategies align with this for sustainable expansion.

Booking Window

Reservations open through March 15, 2026, for travel up to April 12, 2026, exclusively on AnguillAir-operated services. The offer mandates three-night minimums at Zemi Beach House, with no post-booking refunds. Limited seats underscore urgency for Anguilla bound adventurers.

Timely promotions like this propel Anguilla tourism into peak seasons, filling luxury inventories and supporting jobs. Shoal Bay East’s gentle waters and coral formations gain exposure, diversifying visitor demographics.

Beachfront Allure

Shoal Bay East ranks among Anguilla‘s thirty-three public beaches, boasting uninterrupted white sands and swimmable turquoise seas. Unique rock formations and tropical flora define its charm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Zemi Beach House positions guests steps from this paradise.

Prime beach access supercharges tourism, encouraging water sports and eco-tours that sustain marine health. Anguilla‘s uncrowded coves benefit from mindful visitors, preserving allure for future tourism waves.

Culinary Scene

Anguilla tourism shines through over one hundred restaurants across sixteen miles, from beach shacks to fine dining. Zemi‘s twenty Knots serves grilled catch with island spices, complementing spots like Veya and Blanchards. The Rhum Room’s vast selection highlights regional rums.

Diverse dining elevates tourism impacts, with guests venturing island-wide and boosting farm-to-table economies. Peak reservations fill, signaling vibrant Anguilla hospitality.

Spa Serenity

The three hundred-year-old Thai House Spa at Zemi Beach House delivers Asian-inspired treatments amid tranquility. Signature therapies rejuvenate amid lush gardens, contrasting beach energy. Wellness seekers find respite enhancing their Anguilla escape.

Spa tourism strengthens Anguilla‘s luxury profile, attracting wellness retreats that prolong visits. Local therapists gain employment, weaving culture into tourism fabric.

Sustainable Policies

Anguilla‘s Ministry of Tourism champions high-end, eco-focused development via the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. Policies emphasize environment, culture, and linkages for 2010-2020 and beyond. Zemi aligns with these through green practices.

Responsible initiatives safeguard tourism longevity, balancing growth with preservation of beaches and heritage. Anguilla attracts eco-luxury travelers, fortifying resilient tourism.

Economic Boost

The free flights deal lowers barriers, spurring Anguilla tourism revenue from Northeast markets. High-spending guests at Zemi fuel taxis, shops, and excursions. Airport expansions support rising traffic.

Broadened accessibility diversifies tourism, aiding recovery and job creation. Shoal Bay’s ecosystem thrives under regulated visitation.

Travel Transformation

Direct flights redefine Anguilla access, pairing seamlessly with Zemi Beach House luxury. From Newark boarding to beach lounging, the journey captivates. Tourism evolves toward effortless indulgence.

This partnership cements Anguilla‘s barefoot luxury status, impacting tourism positively through volume and value. Future expansions promise ongoing vibrancy.

Get ready, because Salt Lake City is about to light up in one of the most exciting ways you can imagine. The Get Lucky Festival 2026 will be held at The Great Saltair on 13th and 14th March. It’s one of the biggest and most awaited music festivals in Utah this year, and it promises an unforgettable experience full of high-energy beats, stunning neon visuals, and world-class DJs.

This year’s festival, dubbed Neon Future, isn’t just another music event. It’s a celebration of electronic dance music culture, an immersive experience that will leave you buzzing for days after. With an exciting lineup, incredible stage setups, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into another world, Get Lucky Festival 2026 is set to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Legendary Venue: The Great Saltair

The Great Saltair, located in Magna, just outside of Salt Lake City, has long been a special spot for music lovers. It’s known for its stunning lakeside location and breathtaking views. The venue, which can hold thousands of fans, will transform into a neon wonderland for the Get Lucky Festival 2026. Picture massive outdoor and indoor stages, vibrant neon lights, and an atmosphere that will completely take over your senses.

The festival will take place from 6:45 PM to 2:00 AM on both days, with crowds pouring in from 18+ age groups. Whether you’re coming from the city or further afield, you’ll be greeted by a one-of-a-kind party environment, where electronic dance music meets incredible stage production. And don’t worry about transportation – the venue has clear plans for shuttles and parking, ensuring that the entire event runs smoothly.

A Neon Future: Get Lucky Festival’s Vision

This year, Get Lucky Festival brings the Neon Future theme to life. Imagine yourself immersed in glowing lights, massive screens, and dazzling visuals, all synced to the beats of incredible music. The festival organisers promise a multi-sensory experience where the audience is fully engaged, not just by the music but by the entire atmosphere. From the lights to the production, everything has been designed to create an unforgettable rave experience.

The “Neon Future” theme reflects the festival’s commitment to merging technology with electronic music culture. Expect immersive stage designs, powerful visuals, and mind-blowing effects, all creating a futuristic rave experience. The festival isn’t just about the music – it’s about stepping into a different world, one full of colour, energy, and creative expression.

The Star-Studded Lineup: Big Names & New Faces

One of the major reasons why Get Lucky Festival has such a massive following is its incredible lineup. And the 2026 edition is no different. Expect performances from some of the biggest names in the electronic dance music scene, including:

• deadmau5 – one of the most iconic names in electronic music, bringing an electric performance to the stage.
• Gryffin – known for his melodic beats and incredible stage presence.
• Kai Wachi – a bass-heavy DJ who knows how to make the crowd go wild.
• SIDEPIECE – a dynamic duo that will be lighting up the dancefloor with their infectious house music.

These headliners are just the tip of the iceberg. The lineup also features talented supporting acts like ARMNHMR, Nostalgix, Arius, JOYRYDE, and many more. This diverse range of artists ensures that there’s something for every type of EDM fan, from bass lovers to melodic dance music enthusiasts.

More Than Just Music: The Festival Experience

The Get Lucky Festival isn’t just about the music – it’s about creating a festival experience that you won’t find anywhere else. The event will feature a range of interactive spaces, where you can connect with other festival-goers, grab some delicious food, and even check out exclusive merchandise from top brands.

For those who love the rave culture, expect neon glow paint stations, glow-in-the-dark accessories, and tons of chances to express your creativity. The festival will be full of moments that let you connect with the crowd, share your passion for music, and dive deep into the heart of EDM culture.

One of the standout features of Get Lucky Festival is the sense of community that it fosters. Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a first-time festival-goer, you’ll find yourself part of something bigger than just a music event. The festival’s inclusive vibe and high-energy atmosphere make it a place where everyone can feel welcome and get lost in the beats and the lights.

Tickets & Information: Get Ready to Dance!

Tickets for Get Lucky Festival 2026 are already available, but you’ll need to act fast. These tickets sell out quickly, especially the 2-day General Admission and VIP passes. The VIP experience offers exclusive access to private bars, elevated viewing areas, and other perks that will make your festival experience even more unforgettable. So, if you’re serious about partying at this year’s biggest event, don’t wait to grab your tickets.

Remember that the festival has a clear bag policy, so make sure to plan accordingly. Also, be aware of the festival’s security measures, which are there to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone involved. Prepare to dance all night long and make memories that will last a lifetime!

Why You Can’t Miss Get Lucky Festival 2026

If you’re looking for a wild, neon-infused weekend that celebrates all things electronic music, then Get Lucky Festival 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah is the place to be. This festival offers everything you want in a rave: amazing music, jaw-dropping production, incredible light shows, and a sense of community. It’s more than just an event – it’s an immersive experience that will leave you wanting more.

Whether you’re an EDM fan, a festival enthusiast, or someone who just wants to experience something new, Get Lucky Festival is the perfect destination. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime chance to join thousands of people under the neon lights and enjoy the best electronic dance music. Get your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable weekend at The Great Saltair in Salt Lake City!

Pitcairn Islands receives Holland America Line‘s Volendam as part of the ship’s extended 2026 Grand World Voyage, marking a rare visit to this remote British Overseas Territory. The mid-voyage stop allows passengers to tender ashore at Bounty Bay, engaging with the island’s fifty residents descended from HMS Bounty mutineers. This event underscores Pitcairn Islands tourism‘s niche appeal for adventure seekers.

The arrival significantly elevates tourism by showcasing Pitcairn‘s isolation and authenticity to affluent cruisers, potentially inspiring future independent visits. Local crafts and stories shared onboard enhance global awareness, benefiting the economy through direct sales.

World Voyage Scope

Volendam‘s one hundred thirty-three-day itinerary spans five continents, fifty-one ports in twenty-three countries, rerouted via Pacific to avoid Red Sea tensions. Departing Fort Lauderdale January 2026, the ship calls Japan, Alaska, Panama Canal, before South Pacific gems like Pitcairn Islands. An overnight in Tokyo and Antarctic segments add prestige.

Such comprehensive voyages amplify Pitcairn Islands tourism through high-profile exposure, drawing media and repeat interest. Tourism infrastructure benefits from prepared protocols for vessel visits, sustaining small-scale operations.

Island Heritage

Pitcairn Islands embody living history, settled 1790 by mutineers and Tahitians on rugged volcanic terrain. Adamstown overlooks Bounty Bay, site of Fletcher Christian’s anchorage. Endemic flora, birds, and marine life thrive in subtropical isolation.

Cruise calls like Volendam‘s invigorate tourism, offering glimpses of this legacy to passengers who share experiences widely. Pitcairn tourism grows via cultural exchanges, preserving heritage while funding conservation.

Visitor Protocols

Government guidelines ensure safe tendering to Pitcairn Islands, coordinating via mayor and harbor master for cruise vessels. Ships notify ahead, adhering to biosecurity and capacity limits to protect the community. Yachts and tours follow similar sustainable practices.

Structured visits safeguard tourism sustainability, preventing overcrowding in this tiny population hub. Pitcairn Islands tourism thrives on quality interactions, fostering positive word-of-mouth.

Sustainable Tourism

Pitcairn Islands Tourism Department, established 2010, follows World Tourism Organization principles balancing environment, economy, and culture. Focus on heritage conservation amid biodiversity hotspots like Henderson Island UNESCO site. Cruise tourism integrates minimally invasive access.

Volendam‘s visit aligns with these tenets, boosting tourism revenue without ecological strain. Funds support natural heritage, enhancing long-term appeal for eco-conscious travelers.

Onboard Enrichment

Passengers on Volendam enjoy lectures and demonstrations post-Pitcairn Islands call, deepening understanding of Bounty saga and Polynesian roots. Shore excursions include hilltop hikes and honey tastings from local apiaries. Ship’s intimacy suits remote port logistics.

Enrichment programs extend Pitcairn tourism reach, turning brief stops into lasting memories shared online. This amplifies destination desirability beyond physical visits.

Economic Impacts

Direct sales of wood carvings, honey, and stamps during Volendam‘s anchorage provide vital income for Pitcairn Islands residents. Tourism contributes significantly to GDP, complementing fishing and postage. Government promotes products globally.

Cruise tourism injects immediate cashflow, funding community services and infrastructure. Pitcairn‘s model ensures equitable distribution, stabilizing remote tourism economy.

Access Challenges

Pitcairn Islands lies thirty-three hundred miles from New Zealand, accessible mainly by thrice-yearly supply ships from Mangareva or rare cruises like Volendam. No airport demands sea voyages, heightening exclusivity. Tour operators arrange guided trips.

These barriers enhance tourism prestige, attracting discerning adventurers whose visits yield high value. Pitcairn Islands tourism remains boutique, avoiding mass overtourism.

Cultural Immersion

Residents welcome cruisers with demonstrations of traditional weaving and fishing, sharing stories of two hundred-year isolation. Interactions highlight hospitality amid stunning cliffs and caves. Paul Gauguin’s legacy nearby adds artistic context.

Personal engagements define Pitcairn tourism, creating advocates who promote the islands. Cultural preservation strengthens amid global exposure.

Future Prospects

Pitcairn Islands anticipates more small-ship calls, building on Volendam‘s success within sustainable limits. Tourism department expands agent tools and microsites for cruise lines. 2026 voyage sets precedent for Pacific itineraries.

Optimistic outlook sustains tourism growth, with policies ensuring community benefits. Pitcairn positions as ultimate remote escape.

Global Spotlight

Holland America‘s showcase via Volendam elevates Pitcairn Islands in luxury cruise circuits, from Fort Lauderdale to Oslo. Revised routing underscores adaptability, prioritizing safety for exotic ports.

High-visibility voyages transform Pitcairn tourism, inspiring bookings and media coverage. Island’s mystique endures, impacting global tourism trends toward authenticity.

Image Credit: Holland America

Samsung makes phones that are strong and can last a long time. A 2012 Samsung Gusto 2 Flip phone proved this in a surprising way.

In Prescott, Arizona, 84-year-old Katie Elkin was walking in the desert near her home when she saw a dusty phone lying on the ground. It was open and covered in dirt. At first, Katie thought about giving it to a neighbor boy who liked taking electronics apart. But then she wondered if the phone could still work.

Katie went home and looked through her old chargers. She found one that fit the phone. To her amazement, the phone started charging, and later, it turned on! Katie was thrilled. She wanted to find out who owned it.

She looked at the messages and contacts on the phone. She learned the owner’s name was Maddie. Maddie worked in a cafe, liked hiking, and had family in Chicago. Using a reverse phone lookup, Katie found a number for Maddie’s father and tried calling.

Image via Samsung

Finally, just before the holidays, Maddie answered herself. She was surprised to hear from Katie and explained that she had lost the phone in 2015 while hiking in the same desert.

For ten years, the little Samsung phone had survived the hot summers, cold winters, storms, and desert conditions. Even though it was old and battered, it still worked.

This incident shows how some phones are built to last. Katie shared the story with Samsung (via CNET) to celebrate the phone’s durability. The little phone not only survived harsh conditions but also helped reconnect Maddie with her lost device.

The post Samsung’s lost phone survives a decade in harsh desert conditions appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung’s latest One UI version is One UI 8.5, which is currently under beta testing. Everyone is excited about One UI 8.5, but leaks have already started coming up for the next big update: One UI 9. The upcoming version of One UI will be based on Android 17 OS.

Almost everyone is still waiting for One UI 8.5. So, how come we are suddenly talking about One UI 9?

These leaks come from test firmware builds found online. So far, most of these leaks show small changes, but still give us a good idea of what might come to your Galaxy smartphone. Keep in mind that these are early leaks from February 2026, so things can change before the official release.

From what we know from past events, Samsung usually introduces major One UI updates with new foldable phones in the summer, so you can expect One UI 9 around July 2026 with the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Galaxy Z Flip8.

Now, before going into leak details, I have one important question to ask – when will One UI 9 come out?

Samsung One UI 8.5 is coming with the Galaxy S26 series in Feb 2026, and One UI 9 should follow in the second half of the year. Public beta testing might start around May 2026 for some flagships (highly likely, S26 Ultra will be first to test the One UI 9 beta version), with the stable version hitting new devices first. Thanks to the leaked software build for the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip8, we started hearing about One UI 9 for the first time. Let’s now talk about the leaked information.

Visual Changes:

The software update screen and welcome screen have new designs, per the leak. To be specific, the “One UI 9.0” text appears with a bold background that uses red and blue colors. In the current One UI 8.5, you get the blue and green tones.

You could get Android 17’s glassy effect. In addition, Google is adding background blur and transparent styles to system settings like notifications and quick settings. We could see these features coming in One UI 9.

Some floating pill-shaped bars (like in Quick Share) look more compact and rounded in the leaks, giving more space on the screen edges.

In One UI 9 leaks, Samsung has made a small but visible change to the Quick Share screen. Right now, in One UI 8.5, there’s a floating bar at the bottom that looks like a rounded pill. It has tabs like “Send” and “Receive,” and it floats over the content.

As per leak info, the pill-shaped bar is now smaller and more squeezed together (more compact). The corners are also more rounded, look smoother and softer. There’s now extra space on the sides and at the bottom of the screen.

All these looks simple redesign work. I think Samsung is making everything look cleaner and more polished.

Samsung Internet Browser:

Samsung Internet Browser leak is a major one. We could see a real upgrade in One UI 9. You might choose from new layout options:

• Standard – the usual classic view.
• Bottom – better for using the phone with one hand.
• Compact – a new immersive mode that hides more of the interface for a cleaner look.

Let’s talk about layouts in detail. In Compact mode, the bottom bar groups things like search, tabs, and menu buttons. You will also get a nice fade animation; it disappears when you scroll down and comes back when you scroll up. Just to add, there’s a blur effect too.

An important point to discuss here is the new “Ask AI” button. This feature is powered by Perplexity AI, great for smart, context-based answers. It makes browsing smarter and faster. Here’s what you can do with Ask AI:

• Get a quick summary of the page
• Translate any part of the text
• Have important parts read aloud to you
• Get personal suggestions using your past browsing history

Galaxy AI with Now Nudge:

Samsung has been pushing Galaxy AI strongly in recent years. It has become a key part of every major Samsung update, and One UI 9 might take it further.

The Now Nudge is one interesting feature that we found out in these leaks. This smart AI tool watches what’s on your screen while you are using it. Then it quickly suggests helpful actions to finish tasks faster.

From the code in test builds, Now Nudge can assist with things like:

• Booking rides or rentals
• Checking flights
• Handling government services
• Getting location info
• Looking up medical details
• Managing phone services
• Finding movie times
• And more everyday stuff

The interesting point is that Samsung processes these suggestions on your phone (using its built-in AI chip) for better privacy; it won’t send your screen data to the cloud.

Right now, Now Nudge isn’t in the public One UI 8.5 beta (for Galaxy S25 series). But it looks like the full version might launch with One UI 9.

Other rumors and improvements:

• Smoother performance
  • Android 17 has under-the-hood changes for better UI speed and responsiveness. One UI 9 should feel smoother overall.
• Cross-device features
  • There are hints of better sync, like Do Not Disturb across phones and tablets, or a universal clipboard to copy-paste between devices.
• App Lock
  • We might finally see a native app lock using Android 17’s built-in tools, so you can protect apps with a password or biometrics.
• New hardware hints
  • Code mentions a “Wide” foldable, it looks like Samsung is planning a fresh device.

Not everything is leaked yet. We have not seen major overhauls to the home screen, lock screen, or camera apps.

Are you eligible for the One UI 9?

If you have a device like the Galaxy S24, S25, and S26 series, recent foldables, and some A-series models, you are eligible for the Android 17-based One UI 9 update. Older models (from around 2024 onward) should be eligible, but the exact list will come from Samsung later.

Here’s some basic information for you. The One UI 9 is still in early development, but the leaks give an exciting picture. Features like Ask AI and Now Nudge could make daily phone use quicker and more fun. Samsung often adds or removes things before the official launch. We will probably hear more as beta testing gets closer. If you are a Samsung fan, One UI 9 looks worth waiting for.

The post Samsung One UI 9 early leaks: AI features, browser redesign, new look, and more appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung is officially ending support for two of its older fitness trackers. The company is preparing for the new One UI 8.5 update and the launch of its latest devices. In addition to this, Samsung is retiring older devices that are no longer widely used.

The two devices affected are the Samsung Galaxy Fit and Galaxy Fit e, both released in 2019. The Fit e was a simpler, more affordable version of the Galaxy Fit, designed for people who wanted basic fitness tracking without extra features.

Since these Fit devices release, both devices have been replaced by newer models, including the Galaxy Fit 2 in 2022 and the Galaxy Fit 3 in 2024. Now,  they have been discontinued.

These devices are now seven years old, and Samsung has decided it’s time to stop supporting them. Users who still have a Galaxy Fit or Fit e will no longer be able to use the Galaxy Wearable app to connect or manage their bands after the update.

It is not yet clear if syncing with the Samsung Health app will be affected. So anyone relying on these older trackers may want to avoid updating the Wearable app for now.

The Galaxy Wearable app is also getting a major visual update to match One UI 8.5, bringing a cleaner design and improved features. The update adds support for new devices, including the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, ahead of Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event on February 25, 2026.

While the Galaxy Fit and Fit e served users well for years, the update encourages users to upgrade to newer options like the Galaxy Fit 3 to enjoy new features and modern capabilities.

The post Samsung drops support for 2019 Galaxy Fit trackers appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Luxury device maker Caviar is back with a crazy expensive custom iPhone, and we have some exclusive information about it. The Dubai-based custom device maker has customized an iPhone Air this time, whose design is inspired by the ornamental language of Art Nouveau and the decorative art of Alphonse Mucha. [#InlinePriceWidget,13502,1#] This custom Apple iPhone Air by Caviar features a back panel with premium calfskin in a neutral tone, mother-of-pearl inlays, and 24k gold decorative elements, all complemented with fine engraving and hand-finished detailing. Caviar told us that...

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to defy time, logic, and the expectations placed on athletes beyond their physical prime. Leading the line for Al-Nassr in another decisive Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Hazem, the Portuguese icon once again reminded the soccer world that his scoring legacy is far from finished. In a season where every point matters for the title race, his latest strike added yet another historic chapter to a career that has already rewritten soccer’s record books.

As Al-Nassr pushes to keep pace with the league’s frontrunners, Ronaldo has delivered a moment that carries both immediate significance for the title battle and long-term importance for his personal legacy. The milestone he reached on this night places him in a category of his own, reinforcing the idea that his career after turning 30 has been nothing short of legendary.

The match against Al-Hazem arrived at a critical moment in the season, with Al-Nassr sitting near the top of the Saudi Pro League table and chasing leaders with little room for error. The club entered the fixture with 52 points from 21 matches, boasting an impressive record of 17 wins, one draw, and three losses.

Jorge Jesus‘ side’s form had been formidable, particularly at home, where it had turned Al-Awwal Park into a fortress with nine wins in ten league games. The team was also riding a nine-game winning streak across all competitions, highlighting the momentum behind their title challenge.

Ronaldo, returning from a brief absence, was expected to spearhead the attack once again. His importance to the side was undeniable, as he remained the club’s top scorer with 18 league goals and a key figure in their recent run of victories.

The moment that made history

In the 14th minute, Ronaldo delivered the breakthrough that sent the stadium into celebration. The Portuguese legend found the net to give Al-Nassr the lead, marking his 963rd career goal and reaching an extraordinary personal milestone that only a few players in history could even dream of approaching.

The Portuguese superstar had scored with a clinical finish from a tight angle, following a review for offside that confirmed the goal. The strike underlined his enduring instincts in front of goal and his ability to deliver under pressure.

500 goals after turning 30: Legacy beyond age

Beyond the immediate impact on the match, Ronaldo’s goal carried deeper historical significance. He has now scored 500 career goals after turning 30, a staggering statistic that challenges traditional perceptions of aging in elite soccer.

His post-30 goal tally is spread across multiple clubs and international duty:

• 162 goals for Real Madrid
• 116 goals for Al-Nassr
• 101 goals for Juventus
• 91 goals for Portugal
• 27 goals for Manchester United

This breakdown underscores the longevity and adaptability of Ronaldo’s scoring prowess across different leagues, systems, and eras of his career. In total, his career goal count now stands at 963 goals, placing him within touching distance of the unprecedented 1,000-goal mark, a target that once seemed mythical in modern soccer.

The match also highlighted Ronaldo’s influence since returning to action after a brief personal absence. He has now scored in consecutive games since his comeback, quickly re-establishing himself as the focal point of Al-Nassr’s offense.

Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington renew their rivalry at the Nottingham Arena with retirement looming for the loser. Wood stopped Warrington in the seventh round of their first clash back in 2023, producing a statement TKO after Warrington had built a steady lead on the cards and looked to be on his way to victory. […]

The post Leigh Wood vs Josh Warrington 2 live scorecard and full undercard results appeared first on Boxing News.

Fenerbahçe-Kasımpaşa maçının hakemi Yasin Kol'un FIFA kokartı hayalleri "İngilizce" bariyerini geçemiyor. MHK Başkanı Ferhat Gündoğdu'nun "Özel hocalar tuttu ama başaramadı" sözlerinin ardındaki gizem çözüldü. Sahada binlerce kişiyi yöneten dev ego, sınıf ortamında "bilmeyen öğrenci" konumuna düşünce beyin kendini kilitliyor.

Yarın akşam oynanacak Fenerbahçe-Kasımpaşa mücadelesinde düdük çalacak Yasin Kol, son günlerde performansından ziyade dil öğrenmediği için FIFA kokartı alamamasıyla gündemde.

MHK Başkanı Ferhat Gündoğdu’nun yaptığı samimi açıklamalar, tecrübeli hakemin FIFA kokartı yolundaki en büyük engelini gözler önüne serdi.

MHK Başkanı Gündoğdu, Yasin Kol’un İngilizce öğrenmek için büyük bir çaba sarf ettiğini belirterek şunları söyledi:

- Yasin Kol’un İngilizcesi yok ama olsa, çoktan FIFA hakemliğine aday olurdu. Çok denedi; kurslara gitti, özel öğretmenler tuttu ancak bir türlü başaramadı.

Son olarak, dil seviyesinin yeterli olduğu tahmin edilerek FIFA listesi için hazırlanan Kol, TFF tarafından yapılan İngilizce yeterlilik sınavını da geçemeyince uluslararası arenaya adım atma şansını bir kez daha kaçırdı.

Sahadaki binlerce kişiyi yöneten, kurallara hakim bir profesyonel neden basit bir dil sınavında takılıyor? Fotospor Danışmanı Aylin Çevikkaya, bu durumu "başarısızlık korkusu" ve beynin savunma mekanizmasıyla açıklıyor.

- Sahada mutlak otorite olan bir figürün, sınıfta "hiç bilmeyen öğrenci" konumuna düşmesi egoyu zedeler. Sınav anındaki "Ya yine yapamazsam" kaygısı, beynin öğrenme ve mantık merkezi olan prefrontal korteksini kilitler.

- Toplum önünde başarısı tescillenmiş kişilerde, başarısız olma korkusu sıradan bir insana göre çok daha yıkıcı bir hal alabilir.

Yarın akşamki zorlu maçta düdük çalacak olan Kol, sahada kuralları konuştururken, saha dışında ise en büyük rakibi olan "yabancı dil bariyeri" ve "sınav kaygısı" ile mücadelesine devam edecek gibi görünüyor.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. hafta maçında TÜMOSAN Konyaspor ile Galatasaray, Medaş Konya Büyükşehir Stadyumu'nda karşılaştı. Konyaspor evinde Galatasaray'ı 2-0 mağlup ederek 146 gün sonra kazanmış oldu.

Galatasaray 5-2'lik Juventus galibiyetinin etkisinde mi bilinmez ama bir gerçek var ki geri dönüşü kötü oldu. Süper Lig'de deplasmanda Konyaspor karşısında başarılı bir performans gösteremedi ve 2-0 mağlup oldu.

İlhan Palut yönetimindeki Konyaspor ise bu galibiyetle önemli bir başarıya da imza atmış oldu. Konyaspor, evinde 146 gün sonra kazandı. Son olarak 28 Eylül 2025 tarihinde 2-1'lik galibiyetle Başakşehir'i mağlup eden Konyaspor, 146 gün sonra da Galatasaray'ı 2-0 yenmiş oldu.

MAÇ SONU AÇIKLAMA

Konyaspor teknik direktörü İlhan Palut maç sonu şu açıklamayı yaptı:

-Konya'yı seviyorum. Bunu dürüstçe söylüyorum. Tesis yeni, yönetim kurulu ve başkan yeni. Yepyeni bir takım. Aslında önümüze çıkan bir puan durumu var. Şöyle bir algı oluştu; İlhan Hoca gelecek, eli değecek ve o bir şeyler yapacak durumu var şehirde. Tabii ki biz elimizden geleni yapacağız ama bu ekstra bir sorumluluk verdi. Geldiğimden günden beri çok sorumluluk hissediyorum. Antrenman yaptıkça... Bu hafta ilk kez dolu dolu çalıştık takımla. Ben yavaş yavaş oyuncularımdan neler alabileceğimi anlıyorum. Oyuncularım benim ne istediğimi anlıyorlar yavaş yavaş.

-Güzel bir galibiyet oldu. Ayağımız yere sağlam basmalı. İçimizde küçük bir huzur ve mutluluk var.

Galatasaray Süper Lig'in 23.haftasında deplasmanda Konyaspor'a 2-0 mağlup oldu. Victor Osimhen'in yokluğunda güzel bir performanstan uzak olan sarı-kırmızılılarda futbolcuların reytingleri ise oldukça dikkat çekti.

Galatasaray 5-2'lik Juventus galibiyetinin ardından Süper Lig'de deplasmanda Konyaspor ile karşılaştı. Sahadan 2-0 mağlup ayrılan sarı-kırmızılıarda Osimhen bu akşamki maçta forma giymedi. Teknik direktör Okan Buruk ikinci yarıya değişiklik yaparak başladı.

İkinci yarıda Icardi, Yunus, Abdülkerim çıktı. Torreira, Noa Lang ve Barış Alper Yılmaz oyuna dahil oldu. Ancak sarı-kırmızılılar yine de galibiyet elde edemedi. Oyuncuların performansları ise oldukça dikkat çekti.

İşte Galatasaraylı oyuncuların Konyaspor performansları:

Uğurcan Çakır: 64.

Sacha Boey: 6.4

Singo: 6.7

Abdülkerim Bardakcı: 6.8

Eren Elmalı: 5.7

Gabriel Sara: 6.9

Lemina: 6.6

Yunus Akgün: 6.7

Sallai: 6.6

Sane: 6.8

Icardi:6.4

Trabzonspor savunmasındaki tecrübe krizine Stefan Savic neşter vurmaya geliyor. Genç oyuncuların 'zor anı yönetme' eksikliğini bitirecek olan Karadağlı lider, sadece bir stoper olarak değil, Fatih Tekke'nin saha içindeki "sağ kolu" olarak formasına kavuşuyor.

Trabzonspor’da sakatlığı nedeniyle uzun süredir takımdan uzak kalan Stefan Savic’in dönüşü büyük anlam taşıyor. Bordo-mavili ekipte savunma hattının yaşadığı "tecrübe krizi" Karadağlı yıldızın liderliğiyle çözülmeyi bekliyor.

Nwaiwu ve Batagov gibi genç isimlerin potansiyeli dikkat çekse de, henüz beklenen uyum yakalanabilmiş değiller. Özellikle maçın kırılma anlarında sergilenen "zor anı yönetme" refleksi, Savic’in yokluğunda Trabzonspor’un yumuşak karnı haline geldi. Orta saha ve beklerin de dahil olduğu bu organizasyon bozukluğu, kriz anlarında takımı sakinleştirecek bir figürün eksikliğini açıkça hissettirdi.

Savic’in dönüşü, sadece fiziksel bir müdahale kapasitesi değil; saha içinde konuşan, yerleşimi organize eden ve arkadaşlarına yön gösteren bir akıl demek. Özellikle teknik direktör Fatih Tekke’nin teknik ekibindeki cezalar ve kulübedeki sınırlı alternatifler düşünüldüğünde; Savic, Tekke’nin saha içindeki sağ kolu olacak.

Savic skorun korunması gereken anlarda oyunu yavaşlatma ve takımı sakinleştirme becerisinin yanı sıra savunma hattının yerleşimini kusursuz bir şekilde komuta etmesi ile öne çıkıyor. Kırılgan haftalarda genç oyunculara vereceği özgüven ve rakip forvetler üzerindeki tecrübe baskısı.

Beşiktaş yönetimi, federasyonların dayattığı 'saat skandalı' karşısında havlu attı! Bugün futbol ve basketbolda hayati maçların aynı saate konulmasına engel olamayan siyah-beyazlı yönetimin, 'İtiraz ettik ama dinletemedik' savunması camiada büyük infial yarattı. Beşiktaş'ın masadaki ağırlığı sorgulanmaya başladı.

Beşiktaş camiası bugün yaşanması muhtemel "saat krizi" ile çalkalanıyor. Futbolda Göztepe, basketbolda ise Fenerbahçe ile oynanacak maçların aynı saate denk getirilmesi, siyah-beyazlı camianın tepkisine neden oldu. Yönetimin bu süreçteki pasif tutumu sert eleştirilerin odağında.

Beşiktaş camiasına göre bugün kelimenin tam anlamıyla bir "planlama skandalı" yaşanacak. Beşiktaş Futbol Takımı’nın Pazar günü saat 20.00’de çıkacağı Göztepe maçıyla, Beşiktaş Basketbol Takımı’nın Fenerbahçe ile oynayacağı final maçının aynı saate konulması "kasıt var" dedirtti.

Binlerce taraftarın hem tribünde hem de ekran başında desteklemek istediği iki branşın çakışması, federasyonların koordinasyon eksikliğini bir kez daha gözler önüne serdi.

Beşiktaşlılar ise "Basit bir saat düzenlemesini bile yapamayan federasyon yetkilileri, kulüplerin ve taraftarın emeğini neden hiçe sayıyor?" diye isyan etti.

Beşiktaş yönetiminden gelen "İtiraz ettik ama sesimizi duyuramadık" açıklaması, camiadaki huzursuzluğu daha da körükledi. Beşiktaş gibi bir devin yönetim mekanizması, haklı olduğu bir konuda "sözünü geçirebilen" tarafta olmalı görüşü hakim.

"İtiraz ettik olmadı" cümlesi, tribündeki taraftarın sitemi olabilir; ancak 121 yıllık bir çınarı temsil eden yönetim, sonuç odaklı hareket etmek ve gerekirse o maçı o saatten aldırmakla yükümlüdür.

İki büyük branşta aynı saatte maça çıkılmasına engel olunamaması, kulübün merkezdeki gücünün ve lobisinin zayıfladığı şeklinde yorumlanıyor.

Beşiktaşlı futbolseverler Göztepe maçına odaklanmışken, basketbol sevdalıları ise derbi heyecanını yaşamak istiyor. Ancak yönetimin bu planlama karşısındaki "çaresiz" duruşu, sahadaki sonuçlardan bağımsız olarak Beşiktaş’ın masadaki ağırlığının sorgulanmasına neden oluyor.

Avrupa yolunda kader sınavına çıkan Beşiktaş'ta, Sergen Yalçın zafer planını "bilgi" üzerine kurdu! Siyah-beyazlıların devre arasında rakibinden transfer ettiği Junior Olaitan, eski takımı Göztepe'nin tüm oyun kodlarını ve Stanimir Stoilov'un gizli planlarını bir bir anlattı.

Avrupa kupaları yolunda kader niteliği taşıyan maçta Beşiktaş evinde Göztepe’yi konuk edecek. Siyah-beyazlılar için bu maç sadece 3 puan değil üst sıralara tırmanma fırsatı anlamını da taşıyor.

Şu an puan tablosunda Göztepe’nin sadece 1 puan gerisinde 5. sırada bulunan Beşiktaş, bu maçı kazanması halinde rakibinin 2 puan üzerine çıkarak 4’üncü sıraya yerleşecek.

Üstelik Gaziantep deplasmanından gelecek olası bir puan kaybıyla Trabzonspor ile farkın 3’e inmesi, siyah-beyazlı camiada 3’üncülük umutlarını da yeniden yeşertecek.

Sergen Yalçın hayati maçın stratejisini "bilgi" üzerine kurdu. Devre arasında Göztepe’den getirdiği Junior Olaitan ile özel bir görüşme yaptı. Eski takımının bu tarz büyük maçlara nasıl hazırlandığını ve Stanimir Stoilov’un oyun planındaki ince detaylarını öğrendi.

Beşiktaş teknik heyetini en çok düşündüren nokta ise iki takım arasındaki stil farkı ve istatistikler.

Göztepe, ligde maç başına 21.3 kazanılan hava topu ile zirveyi zorlarken, Beşiktaş bu alanda 16.2 ile oldukça geride kalıyor. Orkun, Olaitan, Cerny ve Cengiz gibi topu yere indirerek oynamayı seven teknik bir kadroya sahip olan Beşiktaş, topu yere indirmeden uzun toplarla hızlıca rakip kaleye inen Göztepe’nin bu oyununa karşı önlem almaya çalışıyor. Maçın kaderini belirleyecek çarpıcı veriler ise şu şekilde:

Göztepe, maç başına 253.4 pasla ligin en az pas yapan takımı olmasına rağmen, dikine oyunla sonuç alıyor. Göztepe "Başarısız Topa Dokunma" istatistiğinde ligin zirvesinde yer alırken; Beşiktaş, ligin en fazla top kaptıran 3. takımı konumunda. Bu durum, maçın her anında geçiş hücumlarına ve sürpriz top kayıplarına gebe olduğunu gösteriyor.

Saha dışındaki fırtına dinmiyor... Beşiktaş'ta Serdal Adalı yönetimi; %400'lük sermaye artırımı, denetim raporlarındaki 'şeffaflık' alarmı ve yatırımcının tepkisiyle kuşatma altında. 'Geleceği inşa ediyoruz' vaadi, eriyen hisse değerleri ve kapalı kapılar ardında alınan kararların gölgesinde kalırken camia somut cevaplar bekliyor.

Beşiktaş’ta saha sonuçlarındaki dalgalanmaların yanı sıra yönetimsel bir kriz var. Başkan Serdal Adalı’nın "Geleceği inşa ediyoruz" söylemlerine rağmen, camia ve yatırımcılar somut mali tablolara projektör tutulmasını istiyor.

Yönetim, tarihin en büyük finansal operasyonlarından birini yürütürken; "Şeffaflık mı, yoksa günü kurtarma mı?" tartışmaları siyah-beyazlı camianın gündeminde.

Geçtiğimiz yıl gerçekleştirilen %400 oranındaki bedelli sermaye artırımı, Adalı yönetiminin en çok eleştirilen hamlesi oldu. Adalı, bu hamleyle bankalar konsorsiyumu borcunun önemli bir kısmının kapandığını savunsa da, piyasa bu hamleyi "küçük yatırımcının cezalandırılması" olarak okudu.

Burada akıllara gelen soru; "Nakit akışı rahatlamışken, hisse fiyatlarındaki sert düşüşün ve yatırımcı güvenindeki erimenin hesabı nasıl verilecek?" oldu.

Bağımsız denetim raporlarına yansıyan “sınırlı olumlu görüş” notu, Beşiktaş’ın mali yapısındaki şeffaflık sorununu tescilledi. Denetçilerin "Her şeye kefil değiliz" dediği bir tabloda, Adalı yönetiminin bilanço kalemlerini yeterince açıklamaması "alarm" olarak nitelendiriliyor. Yönetim hayal satmakla eleştiriliyor.

Arka arkaya gelen hisse satışları kulübe geçici bir nefes aldırdı ancak Beşiktaş’ın borsadaki itibarını ciddi şekilde zedeledi. Camia, bu satışların kapsamlı ve şeffaf bir iletişim kurulmadan, adeta "gizli kapaklı" bir havada yapılmasından rahatsız. Serdal Adalı'nın "Beşiktaş'ı zarara uğratmam" sözleri, eriyen hisse değerleri karşısında henüz karşılık bulamadı.

Serdal Adalı’nın "200 milyon Euro net gelir" beklediği Dikilitaş projesi, camianın en büyük sancı noktası. Tesislerin yıkılıp yerine "beton" odaklı bir projenin gelmesi, Beşiktaş’ın spor kültüründen kopup bir gayrimenkul şirketine dönüştüğü eleştirilerini beraberinde getirdi.

Adalı’nın son açıklamalarında "algı oyunları" yapıldığını savunması, taraftarın ve kongre üyelerinin tepkisini dindirmeye yetmedi. Kararların kapalı kapılar ardında alındığı, taraftarın yok sayıldığı ve kongre üyelerinin sadece sonuçları dinlediği bir yönetim anlayışı, Beşiktaş’ta "güven krizine" neden olmuş durumda.

Galatasaray Süper Lig'in 23.haftasında bu akşam Konyaspor ile karşılaştı. Sarı-kırmızılılar iptal edilen gol sonrası tepki gösterdi.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 23. haftasında Galatasaray, Konyaspor'a konuk oldu. Karşılaşmanın ikinci yarısında Leroy Sane'nin golüyle öne geçen sarı-kırmızılıların golü geçersiz sayıldı.

Galatasaray sosyal medya hesabından tepki gösterdi. Sarı kırmızılıların açıklamasında, “Pozisyonun VAR'da incelenmesinin ardından gol kararı anlayamadığımız bir şekilde iptal ediliyor.” ifadeleri yer aldı.

Fenerbahçe Başkanı Sadettin Saran, Samandıra'ya çıkarma yaptı. Nottingham yenilgisini kafalardan sildi. 12 maçlık "şampiyonluk paketini" ilan etti. Camianın dev isimlerini arkasına alan Saran, 12 yıllık hasreti bitirecek futbolculara tarihte görülmemiş dev bir prim sözü verdi. Rakam yok ama 12 milyon Euro'dan bahsediliyor.

Fenerbahçe Başkanı Sadettin Saran, Kasımpaşa mücadelesi öncesinde Samandıra’ya çıkarma yaparak takıma moral depoladı. Nottingham Forest mağlubiyeti sonrası morali bozuk olan futbolcularla bir araya gelen Saran, 12 yıllık şampiyonluk hasretine son verecek dev prim paketini açıkladı.

Başkan Saran, ligin kalan bölümü için 12 maçlık özel bir şampiyonluk stratejisi belirlediklerini ilan etti. Bu süreci sadece bir spor mücadelesi değil, camianın kader anı olarak niteledi. "12 yıl sonra gelecek bu kupa, camianın üzerindeki ölü toprağını atacak en büyük güçtür" mesajını verdi.

Ekonomik olarak camianın önde gelen iş adamlarının tam desteğini arkasına aldığını belirten Saran, kesenin ağzını açtı. Sezon sonu hedefe ulaşılması durumunda futbolcuları tarihte eşi benzeri görülmemiş bir şampiyonluk priminin beklediğini müjdeledi.

Avrupa’daki Nottingham Forest yenilgisi nedeniyle morali bozuk olan oyuncuları ayağa kaldıran Saran, radikal bir tavır sergiledi:

- Yönetim, camia ve taraftar için Forest maçının hiçbir önemi yok. Biz o maçı yaşanmamış kabul ediyoruz. Sizin tek sorumluluğunuz ligdeki yürüyüşümüzdür. Avrupa defterini kafanızdan silin ve Kasımpaşa maçına odaklanın.

Şampiyonluk ipi göğüslendiğinde tüm takıma ve teknik heyete dağıtılacak toplam rakamın 10 milyon Euro civarında bir bantta olması bekleniyor. Hatta 12 yıla atıf olarak 12 milyon Euro da olabilir.

Fenerbahçe, Tedesco yönetiminde bu sezon tam 3 kez yaşadığı 3 maçlık puan kaybı serisiyle "dejavu" döngüsüne hapsoldu. Nottingham Forest yenilgisi sonrası 4. kriz korkusu camiayı sardı. Gözler Kasımpaşa'nın başında "yabancı hoca panzehiri" Emre Belözoğlu'na çevrildi.

Fenerbahçe, Domenico Tedesco yönetiminde bu sezon 3 kez "dejavu" döngüsüne düştü. Sarı-lacivertliler bu sezon tam üç kez 3 maçlık puan kaybı serisi yaşadı.

Fenerbahçe bu sezon istikrar sınavında sınıfta kalırken, kayıplar hep bloklar halinde geldi:

- 1. Kriz: Alanyaspor, Kasımpaşa, D. Zagreb

- 2. Kriz: Ferencvaros, Galatasaray, Başakşehir

- 3. Kriz: Aston Villa, Göztepe, FCSB

Fenerbahçe bu kez sahasında Nottingham Forrest'e 3-0 yenildi... camiada yeni korku takımın 4'üncü kez bir türbülansa girmesi. Umut ise kulüp efsanesi Emre Belözoğlu. Belözoğlu'nun Kasımpaşa’daki performansı bu kez türbülansa girilmeden sıkıntının atlatılabileceğinin umudu.

Emre, Kasımpaşa başında çıktığı 8 maçta yalnızca 1 galibiyet alabildi (3-2 Karagümrük). Bu 8 maçın 5’inde Kasımpaşa rakip fileleri havalandıramadı.

Belözoğlu, rakip hoca olarak Fenerbahçe'ye karşı 8 kez sahaya çıktı. 2021-22'de Başakşehir ile 1-0, geçen sezon ise Ankaragücü ile kupada 3-0 kazansa da; kaybettiği 6 maçın 4’ünde gol dahi atamadı.

Tedesco için en dikkat çekici tehdit, Belözoğlu’nun yabancı teknik adamlara karşı kurduğu psikolojik üstünlük olabilir... Montella’ya karşı 4 maçın 3’ünü kazandı. Reis ve Stanojevic’e karşı de 3 maçın 2’sinden galibiyetle ayrıldı. Fenerbahçe, "zaman" yardımıyla krizlerden çıkmayı başarsa da; Kasımpaşa başında zorlanan ancak yabancı hocalara karşı "panzehir"i olan Emre Belözoğlu'ndan çelme yemek istemiyor.

Fenerbahçe'de Domenico Tedesco dönemi sadece puan kayıplarıyla değil, mağlubiyet alınan maçlardaki etkisiz ve mahkum futbolla sorgulanıyor; sarı-lacivertliler reaksiyon vermekte zorlanıyor.

Fenerbahçe’de teknik direktör Domenico Tedesco’nun karnesi sadece skorlarla değil, kayettiği maçlarda sahadaki etkisiz futbolla da tartışılmaya devam ediyor. Sarı-lacivertli ekipte Alman teknik adamın mağlubiyet aldığı her maçta oyun olarak da geride kalması camiadaki huzursuzluğu artırıyor.

OYUNA HÜKMEDEMEDİ

Tedesco dönemindeki en çarpıcı istatistik, kaybedilen maçların hiçbirinde Fenerbahçe’nin oyuna hükmedememiş olması. Nottingham Forrest (0-3), Dinamo Zagreb (1-3) ve Beşiktaş (1-2) maçlarında rakip üstünlüğü skor tabelasına yansırken; iç sahadaki Aston Villa (0-1) mağlubiyetinde de sarı-lacivertliler reaksiyon veremedi.

Sadece mağlubiyetlerde değil; FCSB, Göztepe, Başakşehir ve Ferencvaros ile berabere biten maçlarda da Fenerbahçe, galibiyeti hak edecek bir oyun ortaya koymayı başaramadı.

Fenerbahçe, bu sezon Tedesco yönetiminde tam üç kez 3 maçlık puan kaybı serisi yaşayarak istikrar sınavını da veremedi. İlk dönemde; Alanyaspor, Kasımpaşa, D. Zagreb. Daha sonraki dönemde; Ferencvaros, Galatasaray ve Başakşehir ile son dönemde de Aston Villa, Göztepe ve FCSB kayıpları hep üst üste geldi.

Fenerbahçe’nin bu istikrarsız tabloda ayakta kalmasını sağlayan en büyük etken, puan kayıplarının ardından gelen uzun aralar oldu. Plzen dönüşü oynanan Kayserispor maçı bir avantaj olarak değerlendirilirken; diğer iki büyük krizde "zaman" yardıma koştu.

Beşiktaş mağlubiyetinin ardından giren devre arası ve Samsunspor yenilgisi sonrası gelen milli ara, takımın dağılmasını engelleyerek bir nevi "rahatlama" sağladı.

Fenerbahçe’nin önündeki en büyük şans, Emre Belözoğlu yönetimindeki Kasımpaşa’nın ligdeki durumu. Ancak sarı-lacivertliler için bu durum bir "çantada keklik" senaryosu değil; nitekim sezonun ilk yarısında oynanan maçta Tedesco’nun öğrencileri Kasımpaşa’ya puan kaptırarak şampiyonluk yolunda yara almıştı.

Fenerbahçe'nin yeni transferi Sidiki Chérif hakkındaki ortaya atılan "24 yaşında" iddialarının altı boş. 5 yaşından beri Fransa'nın sıkı bürokrasisi ve futbol akademilerinin gözetiminde büyüyen genç yeteneğin çocukluk fotoğraflarından milli takım kayıtlarına kadar tüm gerçek kronolojisi gözler önünde.

Fenerbahçe'nin devre arasında kadrosuna kattığı Sidiki Chérif hakkında sosyal medyada dolaşan "19 değil, aslında 24 yaşında" iddiaları, futbol dünyasında sıkça rastlanan "yaş küçültme" klişelerinden biri olarak öne çıktı. Ancak Chérif'in kariyer kronolojisi ve Avrupa'daki gelişim süreci incelendiğinde bu iddiaların tamamen asılsız.

Chérif'i Afrika'dan doğrudan Avrupa'ya gelen ve geçmişi belirsiz olan oyunculardan ayıran en net fark, 5 yaşından itibaren Fransa'da yaşıyor olması. Ailesiyle birlikte Saumur şehrine yerleşen Chérif, tüm çocukluk ve gençlik eğitimini Fransız resmi kurumlarının denetimi altında tamamladı.

Chérif, henüz ilkokul çağındayken Bayard-Saumur ve Olympique Saumur gibi yerel kulüplerin altyapılarına lisanslı olarak oynadı. Bu yaşta bir çocuğun yaşının küçültülüp sisteme dahil edilmesi, Fransa gibi bürokrasisi sıkı bir ülkede imkansıza yakın.

Genç oyuncu, Fransa'nın U16 ve diğer alt yaş milli takımlarına seçildi. Fransa Futbol Federasyonu (FFF), milli takıma davet edilen göçmen kökenli oyuncuların belgelerini, kemik yaşlarını ve okul kayıtlarını son derece titiz bir şekilde denetler. 5 yaşından beri ülkede olan birinin kimlik bilgilerinde 5 yıllık bir sapma olması, bu denetimlerden kaçamaz.

Chérif, 12 yaşında Angers akademisine girdiğinde zaten Fransız futbol sisteminin içinde 5 yıllık bir geçmişe sahipti. Kulüp yetkilileri ve antrenörleri, onun fiziksel gelişimini ergenlik döneminden itibaren adım adım gözlemledi.

Yaş iddiaları genellikle Chérif’in 1.88 m’lik boyu ve atletik fiziği üzerinden yapılmakta. Ancak bu durum, "erken gelişim" gösteren birçok modern sporcuda görülen genetik bir avantaj.

Gine halkı ve futbol otoriteleri şu an oyuncunun yaşını değil, milli takım tercihini tartışıyor. Gine Futbol Federasyonu, Chérif'in kendi kökenlerini temsil etmesi için ailesiyle yoğun bir temas trafiği yürütürken; Fransa tarafı da oyuncuyu kaybetmek istemiyor.

Manuel Akanji insists it is not true that Inter are ‘different’ in the Champions League to Serie A, but Federico Dimarco is one of the ‘top three’ left-footed players he worked with.

The defender came off the bench and rose to nod in the Dimarco corner kick to seal their 2-0 victory away to Lecce.

He scored the second, as fellow substitute Henrikh Mkhitaryan had also turned in a flicked on Dimarco corner at the Stadio Via del Mare.

Akanji praise for Dimarco and Inter

“It is really important even when you are not starting, that you are focused and ready even before coming on,” Akanji told DAZN Italia.

“We saw that with first Mkhi and then me coming off the bench, but also we know how important set pieces can be, they can win you the match, and that is what happened today.”

When considering all the great players he has worked with, where does Dimarco’s left foot rate for Akanji?

“I am trying to think of all the teammates I’ve had, but he’s definitely in the top three. Dimarco has so many assists already, he might be the best, but I don’t want to say anything other than that to not discredit anyone else. He’s amazing.”

They were coming off a painful Champions League play-off defeat to Bodo/Glimt on Wednesday, beaten 3-1 in Norway and losing Lautaro Martinez to injury.

The former Manchester City defender was asked if there were two different Inter teams, one in Europe and one in the Italian league.

“I don’t think there’s two different Inters. The games we lost in the Champions League, most of them at least, were against big teams. We have the chance to turn it around with Bodo/Glimt in a few days,” insisted Akanji.

“Sometimes it works better, sometimes a bit less. I know before people would say we didn’t win big games, now they say we are two different teams in Europe and Italy, but we always try to do our best.”

It took until the 75^th minute to break on-form Lecce down, but Inter took all three points thanks to Federico Dimarco setting up Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Manuel Akanji goals.

The Nerazzurri were still shaken by their Champions League play-off 3-1 defeat to Bodo/Glimt, especially as they also lost Lautaro Martinez for a month to a soleus strain during that match in Norway. Denzel Dumfries was still out, with Hakan Calhanoglu and Nicolò Barella suspended, so Davide Frattesi and Marcus Thuram stepped in. Lecce turned a corner with back-to-back wins over Udinese and Cagliari, and while Francesco Camarda and Medon Berisha were injured, Lameck Banda returned from his ban for a spot on the bench.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Alessandro Bastoni was loudly jeered by the crowd at every touch following his self-confessed simulation to get Pierre Kalulu sent off for Juventus last week.

In the opening 35 seconds, Kialonda Gaspar at full stretch made a decisive block on Marcus Thuram’s angled drive, injuring himself in the process and forcing a substitution within four minutes.

Substitute Jamil Siebert made an immediate impact, as he performed the goal-line clearance on a Luis Henrique volley from 12 yards to deny Inter the opener on 10 minutes.

Marcus Thuram nodded a Federico Dimarco free kick off target, while Francesco Pio Esposito’s strike was deflected over by Ylber Ramadani.

The Italian striker also forced Wladimiro Falcone into an acrobatic one-handed save, while Ramadani fired over after shrugging off a weak Petar Sucic tackle inside the area.

Thuram stood up the ball at the by-line for Esposito’s header from a tricky angle, denied again by Falcone at the near post, while Frattesi fired over from a slightly mis-placed Luis Henrique assist.

Inter stepped up a gear after the restart and there was nobody at the back post to meet the flicked Frattesi header on a corner, then Dimarco had the ball in the net on 51 minutes from a Thuram pull-back, but the Frenchman’s shoulder was offside in the build-up.

Lecce tried to go on the counter, but Banda slipped as he cut inside and got the shot away from the edge of the penalty area, as Frattesi nodded Bastoni’s cross wide of the near post.

Bastoni read the situation well to prevent Santiago Pierotti cutting inside in the area, but Inter immediately went on the counter and scored from the resulting corner.

Dimarco’s set play was flicked on and bounced in front of substitute Mkhitaryan, who swept in the half-volley from 14 yards with the right foot, sending it through a crowd.

It really should’ve been 2-0 when Dimarco started the move from his own half and combined with Mkhitaryan, but the first shot was parried by Falcone’s foot, then the second attempt cleared off the line by Tiago Gabriel.

Inter did double their advantage from another Dimarco corner, this one nodded in by a towering Manuel Akanji header into the far top corner.

Bastoni received a yellow card and will be suspended against Genoa, but safe for the Derby della Madonnina, and immediately afterwards was replaced by Carlos Augusto to complete Inter’s ninth consecutive Serie A away victory.

Lecce 0-2 Inter

Mkhitaryan 75 (I), Akanji 82 (I)

21-02-2026 17:00

MatchDay 26

Stadio Ettore Giardiniero - Via del Mare

Lecce

Inter

0 - 2