Well, Taiwan, being the center of the AI supply chain, faces a somewhat surprising problem, as according to local media, the nation's savings have soared to "historical records". Taiwan's Income Growth Is Driven By Commodity Exports Related to AI; Savings Have Now Reached Historic Levels When we talk about the influence of AI on global economics, Taiwan is one of the few nations that have seen an unprecedented rise in investment activity, driven by the fact that many elements of modern-day AI hardware are sourced from suppliers in the nation. TSMC, Foxconn, Quanta, and Wistron are among the few prominent […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/ai-demand-in-taiwan-brings-a-problem-everyone-is-eager-to-have/

Fallout 76's free Update 66 goes live across all platforms in a few days, on Tuesday, March 3. Dubbed "The Backwoods", it aims to revitalize world events and activities while also introducing an iconic Cryptic enemy, the Bigfoot. Ahead of the release, a few folks from Bethesda Game Studios provided a remote presentation to press (Wccftech included) and answered several questions in a roundtable format about The Backwoods and the game as a whole. In this article: Fallout 76 "The Backwoods" Update Overview The most sweeping change in the upcoming update is arguably the fundamental redesign of how events and […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/fallout-76-update-66-backwoods-bigfoot-party-crashers-event-overhaul/

Self-serve negative keyword lists are now live in Microsoft Advertising, according to Ads Liaison Navah Hopkins — giving advertisers long-requested control without submitting support tickets.

What’s happening. Advertisers can now create and manage shared negative keyword lists directly in the UI. Lists support up to 5,000 negative keywords (one per line) and can be applied at either the campaign or account level. Match types function the same way in Performance Max as they do in traditional Search campaigns.

• Lists can also be edited, exported as CSV files, or removed from campaigns as needed.
• Microsoft notes that match type formatting requires brackets for exact match and quotation marks for phrase match — not hyphens.

Why we care. Negative keywords are critical for filtering irrelevant traffic and protecting budgets. Making lists self-serve streamlines workflow, reduces reliance on support tickets, and gives advertisers faster control over search query exclusions.

The bottom line. Microsoft is handing more operational control back to advertisers — and eliminating friction in one of the most essential levers for campaign efficiency.

Dig deeper. How to add keywords that won’t trigger my ads (negative keywords)

Reported overall length of the Freelander E0V is above 5.1 meters, placing it in China's full-size six-seat SUV tier

The post Spied: Freelander reborn as Chery-built NEV brand breaks from JLR’s house of brands appeared first on CarNewsChina.com.

The post Bitcoin Drops to $65K Again as ETH, XRP and Solana Followed appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

The crypto market is falling again, down about 2% and now near $2.27 trillion. Bitcoin, the flagship cryptocurrency, has erased its recent gains and is down to $65,253. Ethereum fell 4% in the last 24 hours. 

Other altcoins, including XRP, Solana, Dogecoin, and Bitcoin Cash, also dropped between 5% and 18%.

So, what is pushing Bitcoin and Ethereum prices down today?

Hot U.S. PPI Data Triggers Selling

One major reason behind this drop is that the latest U.S. Producer Price Index (PPI) for January came in higher than expected. 

January’s PPI came in at 2.9% year-over-year, above the expected 2.6%. Core PPI rose to 3.6%, also higher than forecasts. This suggests inflation remains strong, reducing the chances of an early interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. 

Higher rates usually make safer assets like bonds more attractive, pulling money away from riskier assets such as crypto.

Liquidations Hit Traders Hard

The sharp move caused heavy liquidations. Over 96,000 traders were wiped out in the past 24 hours, with total liquidations reaching around $260 million. 

Nearly 70% of these were long positions, meaning traders who were betting on higher prices were forced to close. Bitcoin alone saw around $90 million in liquidations, while Ethereum recorded about $86.5 million.

Bitcoin Set to Close February in the Red

Bitcoin has erased all the gains it made on February 26, when it briefly moved close to $70,000. Now, the month is ending on a weak note, with Bitcoin down nearly 16.75% in February.

This marks the first time in Bitcoin’s history that both January and February have closed in the red, with losses of around 10% and 16.75%.

If Bitcoin falls below the $62,553 level, it could retest the recent four-week low near $60,000.

Interestingly, on the positive side, history shows that Bitcoin has often bottomed around 23 months after its previous all-time high. We are now at that same 23-month mark.

Altcoins Follow Bitcoin’s Drop

Meanwhile, Ethereum has also moved lower, falling about 5.7% in the past 24 hours after failing to break its recent four-week high. 

Other major coins, including XRP, Solana, Dogecoin, and Bitcoin Cash, have recorded steeper losses between 5% and 18%. The broader market is clearly reacting to Bitcoin’s weakness.

The post Why Is Bitcoin Below $66,000 Despite Massive Whale Purchases? appeared first on Coinpedia Fintech News

On February 27, Bitcoin (BTC) was trading at $65,640, after failing to reclaim the $70K level two days ago. Its price is also below its 200-week exponential moving average (EMA) of $68,300, something that would trigger a historical additional bearish acceleration.

Source: X

Rise in Bitcoin bulk buys

As stated in its Q4, 2025 earnings report, fintech conglomerate Block Inc. (NYSE: XYZ) acquired an extra 340BTC in that quarter, bringing its total holdings to 8,883 BTC and making it the 14th largest publicly traded holder of Bitcoin globally. 

Meanwhile, the leading publicly traded holder of BTC, Strategy, just recently acquired 592 BTC, bringing its stash to a total of 717,722 BTC.

Institutionally, BlackRock led the recent $1.1 billion inflows to US spot Bitcoin ETFs, breaking a five-week outflow streak of $3.8 billion. More institutions are expected to join the crypto industry, following the implementation of the GENIUS Act.

Why is Bitcoin still showing negative price action?

Mid-term volatility in the crypto market is the product of new US import taxes and the US-Iran geopolitical tensions. Both have caused widespread capital rotation to safe havens like gold, which now trades at $5,250 per ounce (20% up since January 2026).

Heightened inflation in the US has raised expectations that the Federal Reserve will extend current interest rates, causing downward pressure on crypto assets.

Markets today recorded significant intraday volatility as $8.7 billion in Bitcoin and Ethereum options expired. Meanwhile, the “AI Scare Trade” has seen 50% of global venture capital redirected from cryptocurrencies to AI companies. The Jane Street alleged market manipulation saga has done little to help the market.

BTC price prediction

Historically, Bitcoin has always bottomed roughly 23 months after its last all-time high (ATH). Time is now due since its March 2024 ATH of $73K, suggesting future downward price action.

Kalshi prediction markets show an 85% chance that Bitcoin drops below $65,000, echoing current extreme fear market sentiment.

On the flip side, most analysts now propose an elongated cycle of BTC price appreciation, following a break in the coin’s traditional four-year boom-bust cycles.

Bing rewrote its webmaster guidelines to cover Copilot grounding, meta directive controls for AI answers, and a softened stance on AI-generated content.

The post Bing Adds GEO To Official Guidelines, Expands AI Abuse Definitions appeared first on Search Engine Journal.

Content warning: This article contains allegations of sexual assault.

The Atlanta Falcons have dismissed defensive line coach LaTroy Lewis from his role, the team announced on Friday. His dismissal follows an initial report from Darko State News stating that Lewis had been accused of rape following his time at the University of Michigan. 

The Ann Arbor Police Department also reportedly confirmed with ESPN that it is investigating sexual assault allegations against Lewis.

The Falcons stated that they were aware of the allegations and were in the process of gathering information before letting Lewis go on Friday. The team recently hired Lewis to work under new head coach Kevin Stefanski's coaching staff. 

Lewis was the defensive line coach at the University of Toledo in the 2025 season following his stint with the Wolverines.

This breaking news story will be updated.

The Buffalo Bills are keeping one of their core special teams players in Orchard Park, NY. Buffalo is re-signing safety Sam Franklin Jr. to a three-year contract worth up to $7.5 million, with $5 million coming in the first two seasons, per a source shared with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

Franklin, who turned 30 on February 2, served primarily on special teams last season where he played on over 75% of the special team snaps, and his impact went well beyond the stat sheet. In a phase of the game that often swings field position and momentum, Franklin consistently played well, carving out a role as one of the unit’s most reliable contributors.

This is not a flashy newsreel move, but it is a foundational one. While Franklin may not headline defensive packages, his value lies in special teams. For the Bills, this signing reinforces a long-standing philosophy: special teams matter. Buffalo has consistently prioritized versatility and players who embrace the third-phase of football. Franklin fits that mold perfectly.

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — The NFL salary cap has topped $300 million for the first time, landing at $301.2 million in 2026 for a $22 million increase over last year.

The cap has increased 40% in just five years, since it dropped coming off the pandemic-altered 2020 season when few or no fans were allowed to attend games.

The numbers were sent to clubs Friday, and teams must be under the salary cap by March 11, the first day of the new league year.

Rapid growth has been expected since the COVID-19 season, and the biggest year-to-year increase of $31 million came from 2023 to 2024.

The cap dropped to $182 million in 2021 from $198 million going into the pandemic season. The increase has been at least $16 million each year since then, with an average increase of $24 million.

Total projected player costs, including benefits, are $378.8 million.

Wide receiver remains the second most lucrative franchise tag at $27.3 million. The quarterback tag is $43.9 million.

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AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

The players on the U.S. Olympic hockey teams don't deserve this.

Instead of simply being paraded in the Red, White and Blue, our two gold medal-winning hockey teams are being pilloried in the tiresome refrain of Red vs. Blue.

It needs to stop. Just celebrate these teams.

Team USA captain Auston Matthews shouldn't be returning to his NHL team in Toronto to questions about President Donald Trump’s geopolitical intentions related to Canada or columns questioning his loyalty to the Maple Leafs' playoff run, simply for going to the White House and the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C.

We should be celebrating the first Mexican-American to win an Olympic gold medal — against Canada, no less — not debating whether Maple Leafs fans will boo or cheer him in his first NHL game back.

Every one of Matthews' U.S. teammates shouldn't have to answer for President Donald Trump’s congratulatory locker-room phone call that included comments about the women’s team. They shouldn't be called a "clown" by Megan Rapinoe, and "Miracle on Ice" hero Mike Eruzione shouldn't feel compelled to blast the people criticizing the men's players.

We’ve forced our nation's Olympic heroes into the impossible position of having to pick a side in the culture war both major political parties allowed to foment over the past decade. These are hockey players who won gold medals at the Olympics, not statesmen returning from abroad. These are issues that go far beyond a president's phone call, or a State of the Union appearance.

OLYMPICS TV RATINGS: Men's hockey gold medal game sets unique viewership record

"The team that wins the Stanley Cup every year accepts the White House invitation to go," Matthews told reporters earlier this week. "I just think it's something that you do because we are proud Americans and whatever your political beliefs may be, hopefully something like this will bring more unity to the country. But for us, we believe it's a great honor no matter who is in office."

So much for bringing people together.

Blame Trump for bad joke, not Team USA

Is part of the problem that the current media landscape values controversy over nuance? You bet. What’s actually newsworthy too often takes a back seat to what’s trending. A standing ovation for Jack Hughes isn't just celebrated as a show of appreciation and patriotism anymore. It's viewed through the prism of left and right that overtook this hockey game over the past week.

But that’s not fair to these players, who really did nothing wrong other than, in a split-second, elect to laugh at a crude, unfunny joke the president never should have made when he called to congratulate them. It's hard for me to hold that against them, to allow it to diminish that they're the first U.S. men's hockey team in 46 years to win a gold medal at the Olympics.

Almost a week later, ever since Trump’s locker-room call set off an avalanche of opinions here and north of the border, it’s perhaps lost that this controversy boils down to one man’s failed attempt at humor.

Was he trying to crack a sexist joke by minimizing the women’s hockey team’s gold-medal accomplishment while telling the men’s team, “We're going to have to bring the women's team, you do know that?"

Or was he trying to get a laugh at the expense of Democrats when he added, "I do believe I probably would be impeached” if he didn’t invite the women’s team to the White House.

Never mind that it doesn't appear Trump ever called to congratulate the women's ice hockey team when it won a gold medal in overtime against Canada three days earlier. Neither comment he made to the men was appropriate. It was "distasteful," as women's hockey player Hilary Knight correctly put it.

But we’ve collectively spent the days since then somehow trying to make sure what Trump said to the U.S. men's hockey team lingers longer than what the U.S. men's hockey team pulled off in Milan.

See, this never was about whether the men's players should have gone to the White House, or to the State of the Union, to be fêted after an incredible accomplishment. Of course, they should have if they wanted.

This isn’t even about whether Trump should have called the men’s hockey team after its win. Of course, he should have if he wanted. U.S. Presidents have been making those sort of congratulatory calls for decades.

This is about a bad joke, and a group of hockey players who deserve better from us.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USA hockey should be celebrated, not dragged in our culture wars

Not many people had a firm idea on who Oleksandr Usyk would face in his next scheduled fight, but I don’t think anyone had him pegged to be taking on former kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven. Today it was announced through Turki Alalshikh and Ring Magazine that ‘Glory in Giza’ will be headlined by the fight with the WBC heavyweight title on the line in Egypt, streaming live on DAZN on May 23.

“I truly respect people who reach the very top in their sport. Rico is one of them — a powerful athlete and a great champion. Being a champion isn’t just about belts” Usyk said in a press release statement. “It’s about years of hard work, discipline, and belief. I respect his journey — he’s truly the King of Kickboxing. But this is boxing — a different game, with its own rules and its own kings. I’m ready and really looking forward to meeting him in the ring. It’s going to be a unique experience for both of us, and I know the fans are excited too. A big night is coming!” 

His opponent Verhoeven shared these words.

“I spent twelve years as the undisputed heavyweight kickboxing champion and accomplished everything I set out to accomplish,” Verhoeven said. “But staying at the top for that long didn’t take away the hunger, it strengthened it. I wasn’t looking for comfort, so I started looking for the highest challenge available in another world. Usyk is undisputed in boxing. That’s the kind of challenge that motivates me. Undisputed versus undisputed. The best facing the best.”

More details on ticket information and the undercard is expected to be released in the coming weeks.

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris and Wolves boss Rob Edwards both stood in solidarity with their players after two instances of racist abuse were reported on an “appalling” Premier League weekend.

Black Cats winger Romaine Mundle featured from the bench in the Black Cats' 3-1 defeat to Fulham on Sunday on a weekend that saw four separate cases of Premier League players receiving racist abuse and Le Bris reiterated the club's support for Mundle.

"What happened to Romaine is unacceptable, we stand with him," said Le Bris. "There is no room for racism or abuse in football or anywhere else. That's clear for us, we stand for respect, inclusion and diversity, these are the values of football and the values of the club, so it's clear."

Speaking about wider racially motivated incidents in football in recent months, he added: "I don't know really why but I repeat, we don't want to accept that.

"We have to have a clear position and I think it's the case here at Sunderland, we want to defend values and when someone, a group of people, want to threaten those values it's important to react."

Meanwhile, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare was said to be “upset and angered” by the racism he was subjected to after Sunday’s defeat to Crystal Palace.

Arokodare missed a penalty in the 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park and subsequently received racist messages from several accounts.

Edwards said: "It's been a really difficult week for him. He was upset and angered by it, understandably so.

"We've supported him, and I've had a few individual chats with him, we've spoken about it as a group as well, to make sure that we get around him and support."

Police confirmed they are investigating a spate of online abuse directed at Premier League footballers last week, with authorities issuing a stark warning to offenders that they cannot “hide behind their keyboards”.

Kick It Out, the British-based anti-discrimination charity, reiterated its demand for social media platforms to take more robust action against such behaviour.

"This has been an appalling weekend after four players called out the racist abuse they’ve received on social media. But the sad fact is, we know it happens regularly," the organisation said.

"The message from them is loud and clear: action must follow. Players cannot be expected to tolerate this behavior, and nor should anyone else."

The Premier League also condemned the abuse, stating: "There are serious consequences for anybody found guilty of discrimination and we will offer our full support with their investigations. Football is for everyone — there is no room for racism."

Additional reporting from PA

Lauri Markkanen has been a lone bright spot in another bleak season for the Utah Jazz, but the former Arizona forward will now be missing in action for at least a few weeks.

An MRI showed that Markkanen has symptomatic hip impingement with associated inflammation and bone bruise, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Markkanen also twisted his right ankle in a Wednesday practice, sources told Charania.

Markkanen will miss at least two weeks while he recovers from the hip injury. The timing of the injury comes as the Jazz face scrutiny over alleged tanking.

The NBA recently fined the franchise $500,000 for removing Markannen and Jaren Jackson Jr. before the start of the fourth quarter in two recent games. Jackson Jr. has since undergone left knee surgery and will miss the remainder of the season.

Markkanen is averaging a career-high 26.7 points per game with 6.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists. He is in his fourth season with the Jazz. Markkanen has three years left on his contract.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Boogie Fland will have friends in every direction on the court Saturday night when No. 7 Florida hosts 20th-ranked Arkansas.

Fland, who played for the Razorbacks last season, will have his current coaches and teammates on one bench and his former coaches and teammates on the other.

“It’s going to be very special to share a court with them again,” Fland said Friday. “It was definitely circled on my calendar, just coming from there and being from there.”

Fland hopes it goes better than his previous reunion game, a loss in early December against UConn in New York City. Fland bought about a hundred tickets for friends and family to attend his homecoming and then had eight points, one rebound, one assist and no steals in 22 minutes before fouling out.

“Just keep doing what I’m doing and keep doing what we’re doing,” he said. “It’s another game, honestly. Just has different meaning.”

Florida (22-6, 13-2 Southeastern Conference) can clinch at least a share of the league's regular-season title with a victory. A win against Arkansas (21-7, 11-4) coupled with Tennessee beating Alabama would give the Gators the outright crown for the first time since 2014.

That’s the motivation Florida coach Todd Golden wants his guys focused on instead of Fland trying to beat his former team.

“It’s not about Boogie. It’s not about his matchup with Arkansas,” Golden said. “This is the two best teams in the league right now competing on ESPN with ‘GameDay’ here. There is a lot more to play for."

Fland will draw arguably the toughest assignment on the floor: trying to slow down star freshman Darius Acuff Jr., who leads the league in scoring and assists.

Acuff is looking to join Hall of Famer Pete Maravich as the second in SEC history to lead the league in those two categories in a single season. Acuff, who dropped 49 points in a double-overtime loss at Alabama last weekend, is averaging 22.2 points and 6.2 assists.

Fland, meanwhile, ranks second in the league with 56 steals.

“Very polished,” Fland said of Acuff. “Respect him, but you fear none. Got to go in there with the right mentality, just go out there and do it.”

Fland averaged 13.5 points, 5.1 assists and 3.2 rebounds in 21 games with Arkansas last season. He missed two months following wrist surgery and landed in Gainesville after going through the NBA draft process.

He was a big-money acquisition for the defending national champion Gators, a do-it-all point guard who was expected to help replace All-American Walter Clayton Jr.

But Fland has endured shooting woes all season — he is hitting a paltry 21% from 3-point range — and ended up reshaping his approach to become more of a facilitator than a force.

He has been one of the best perimeter defenders in the league all season, highlighted by an eight-steal performance in a lopsided victory against then-No. 23 Alabama earlier this month.

He found a bit of his long-range touch the last two games, knocking down three 3s at Ole Miss and two more at Texas. He made as many treys in those wins as he did in his previous 14 outings combined.

He hasn’t had multiple 3s in three consecutive games all season, a feat he will try to accomplish in front of his former coach, John Calipari, and close buddies Trevon Brazile, Nick Pringle, Billy Richmond and others.

“This all started out as a game that we love to play,” Fland said. “I feel like nowadays, you can’t make it more than that. Obviously, it is. But it’s still just a game that we love to play, and we’ve got to treat it as that.”

It’s the third time in two years the Gators have been involved in a similar reunion: they beat former Florida guard Riley Kugel and Mississippi State in 2025 and knocked off former guard Denzel Aberdeen and Kentucky two weeks ago.

“Welcome to college basketball in 2026,” Golden said. “It’s a thing, going up against your former school and where you started your career, but it can’t be the main thing. ... It’s human nature. There are going to be emotions. But it can’t be something that is at the front of our minds as we play the game.”

___

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Rob Edwards has said his decision to take Tolu Arokodare out of the Wolves team for Friday night’s Midlands derby against Aston Villa was “purely tactical” after the Nigerian forward suffered racial abuse in their last outing.

Arokodare was one of four separate instances of racism across an “appalling” weekend in the Premier League last week, with the striker missing a penalty in Wolves’ 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park and subsequently receiving racist messages from several accounts.

Edwards stood in solidarity with his player in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, saying that Arokodare was “upset and angered” by the incident.

And for the visit of third-place Villa, Arokodare was named on the bench for the first time since mid-January, having started each of Wolves’ last five Premier League outings.

The Wolves boss, however, insisted that this was not for reasons concerning his wellbeing in relation to the abuse, saying: "It was purely tactical.

“He will be on the pitch tonight and I really hope he will affect the game. He didn't start the last game against Arsenal and then really affected it when he came on, so looking forward to the same from him again."

Police confirmed they were investigating a spate of online abuse directed at Premier League footballers last week, with authorities issuing a stark warning to offenders that they cannot “hide behind their keyboards”.

Kick It Out, the British-based anti-discrimination charity, reiterated its demand for social media platforms to take more robust action against such behaviour.

"This has been an appalling weekend after four players called out the racist abuse they’ve received on social media. But the sad fact is, we know it happens regularly," the organisation said.

"The message from them is loud and clear: action must follow. Players cannot be expected to tolerate this behavior, and nor should anyone else."

The Premier League also condemned the abuse, stating: "There are serious consequences for anybody found guilty of discrimination and we will offer our full support with their investigations. Football is for everyone — there is no room for racism."

Cadillac's Formula 1 racecar will have a legendary name pushing it forward: Mario Andretti.

The American F1 team said Friday it's naming its first chassis the "MAC-26" -- the Mario Andretti Chassis 2026 --honoring the 1978 World Champion.

"Naming our first chassis MAC-26 reflects the spirit Mario carried into Formula 1 and the belief than an American team belongs on this stage," Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss said. "His story embodies the American dream and inspires how we approach building this team every day."

Andretti, who won 12 Grands Prix, said: "Racing has been the joy of my life. It is the ultimate compliment that the Cadillac Formula 1 team sees those years as meaningful and worthy of recording with this honor. I cherish the opportunity that this gives me to have a lasting bond with F1 and am genuinely appreciative of everyone who continues to acknowledge my part in racing history."

Cadillac joins the grid this year as the 11th team, launching next weekend at the Australian Grand Prix. Mario Andretti was crucial to the US team's efforts after his son Michael's team was shot down by Formula 1 officials. Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas will drive for Cadillac this season, which is running Ferrari engines until its own powertrain program launches.

The Las Vegas Raiders have plenty of avenues they can go down with the 36th overall pick of the 2026 NFL draft, partially because the defense has plenty of holes that need to be filled. One of the Raiders’ biggest needs is at safety, putting Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman on general manager John Spytek’s radar.

Conveniently, Thieneman currently ranks 36th overall and as the third-best safety in the draft class on NFL Mock Draft Database’s consensus big board (as of Feb. 24), putting him in a good spot to head to Las Vegas. Also, the former Duck would bring some much-needed versatility to the Raiders’ secondary.

Thieneman was primarily a free safety during his first two college seasons at Purdue. However, after transferring to Oregon, he recorded a career-high 434 snaps in the box during the past campaign, while still playing nearly 250 snaps on the back end of the defense, according to Pro Football Focus. Additionally, he lined up over the slot for another 118 snaps.

So, beyond having experience playing multiple positions on defense, what could the former Boilermaker and Duck bring to Las Vegas? Let’s flip on the tape and find out.

Playing more strong safety in 2025 allowed Thieneman to stand out more as a run defender, recording a 75.9 PFF run defense grade and 18 ‘defensive stops’ against the run. The latter was tied for fifth among Big Ten safeties, and the clip above is a good example of how that figure came to be.

Oregon used this defensive formation a lot, where Thieneman is about six to seven yards off the line of scrimmage and in the A-gap, almost playing more like a deep middle linebacker. That can help a defender get the full picture of the offense’s play call, allowing his instincts to shine through.

Once Thieneman recognizes USC is running a halfback dive to the wide side of the field, he starts to creep down toward the line of scrimmage. However, rather than crashing downhill with reckless abandon, he’s measured to avoid getting caught in the trash and running into a block. That gives him more space to operate and make the guard miss. Considering the safety is at about a 110-pound disadvantage in that matchup, that’s a smart decision.

From there, Thieneman makes a nice form tackle, using a wide base and good knee bend to get low while wrapping up on contact, stopping the running back’s momentum and limiting the offense to a short game. Granted, that doesn’t come without some help, as being a more forceful tackler is one area of improvement for the former Duck. But the biggest reason this is a positive play for the defense is that its safety provided excellent run support.

This time, Thieneman is on the backend of the defense and lined up over the slot. His football IQ is on display pre-snap, directing traffic when the Trojans shift their two tight ends out wide and pointing out the jet sweep as soon as wide receiver and projected first-round pick Makai Lemon starts to motion across the formation.

But this isn’t just pure jet sweep from USC. It’s an inverted veer where the quarterback has the option to keep the ball and run off left tackle on the power run that the offensive line is blocking for. So, the safety stays inside the hash mark to protect against the quarterback run until he sees the handoff. Once the exchange happens, Thieneman crashes downhill and has the speed to meet Lemon at the line of scrimmage, making a nice open-field tackle for no gain.

This is a great example of a deep defender providing run support to make an impact play.

This is pretty similar to contributing as a run defender. Another element of the Oregon product’s game that stands out is his ability to defend screens, and the rep above combines a few elements from the last two clips.

Thieneman lines up in the same strong safety/deep MLB alignment seen previously, as Penn State motions the tight end to the wide side of the field and throws a swing pass to the running back. Meanwhile, Thieneman starts to cheat to the tight end pre-snap and immediately flows toward the sideline post-snap. Then, he makes a move to defeat the wide receiver’s block and be in a position to make the tackle on the running back, preventing a one-on-one situation between the running back and deep safety in the open field.

Granted, this is another example of Thieneman giving up extra yards after contact, which is going to be an issue at the next level, especially against running backs. But defensive coordinators can trust him to be in the right spot and make tackles, recording just nine misses at an 8.3 percent rate last season, per PFF. It’s just a matter of adding some extra size and strength if he’s going to be playing in the box frequently in the NFL.

We’ll take a look at another screen here, and this time, our subject comes from depth to save the defense from potentially giving up an explosive play.

It looks like the Ducks are running Cover 4, putting Thieneman 15 yards past the line of scrimmage when the ball is thrown. Once he recognizes the screen, the safety crashes downhill and pursues to the football. The latter is a basic fundamental but ends up being crucial on this rep since the cornerback misses the tackle.

Luckily, Thieneman takes a good angle to cut off the wide receiver and makes the open-field tackle to keep this play to a relatively short gain. Had he loafed and not been in the right spot, this would have been at least a first down and a potential touchdown. But the safety does his job and keeps the defense in a position to get off the field.

Moving on to a couple of coverage reps against downfield passes, the former Duck’s sure tackling continues to shine.

Penn State does gain nine yards on this play, but that’s primarily due to a good play call against Oregon’s defense. They’re in Cover 7 (a variation of Cover 3 with man-match principles), where the two defensive backs are playing with outside leverage to funnel the receivers toward the middle of the field. However, the Nittany Lions run play action where the offensive line and running back sell an outside toss toward the short side of the field, getting the linebackers to step toward the line of scrimmage and away from the drag route from the outside receiver.

As a result, the drag is wideopen for an easy pitch and catch. But Thieneman recognizes that, immediately crashes downhill from a single-high alignment and makes a great tackle to prevent yards after the catch and a first down. Facing a 2nd and one, the defense is still in an adverse situation, but it at least has a chance to get off the field with a couple of short-yardage stops thanks to its safety.

We’ll wrap up with the best play Thieneman made last season, in my opinion.

It’s overtime and Penn State needs to score to keep the game alive. They dial up a play-action pass, and the safety starts to crash downhill on the run fake. However, he uses that to his advantage by continuing to move toward the line of scrimmage well after the quarterback pulls the ball from the running back, baiting the quarterback into the throw.

Once the quarterback starts his throwing motion, Thieneman hits the brakes and pivots toward the sideline to close the gap against the tight end on a wheel route. Finally, he shows off some athleticism by going up and high-pointing the ball in the air to come down with a game-winning interception and pull off the big win on the road.

This play also had ramifications for the rest of the season. It was Penn State’s first loss, eventually leading to James Franklin getting fired as head coach, and helped propel Oregon into a 13-2 record and a run in the College Football Playoffs. Talk about making an impact!

It looks like WrestleMania 42 this coming April will have an earlier start time than expected.

On Thursday, WWE sent a mass email to its ticket holders which stated that WrestleMania 42 will begin at 2:30 p.m. Pacific, a change that has also been announced on the company's website. Following the new update, Wrestling Observer's Bryan Alvarez provided more information about the time change on social media, explaining that in-ring action for WrestleMania will not begin until 3:00 p.m. local time. The event was initially scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m.

Interestingly, the time change comes just two days after WWE revealed that NXT Stand & Deliver will not transpire over WrestleMania weekend like usual, as the event will instead take place from The Factory in Chesterfield, Missouri on Saturday, April 4. Since 2022, NXT Stand & Deliver has been held on the Saturday afternoon of WrestleMania weekend in the same host city of the promotion's biggest show of the year. A potential reason for the change could be the 10:00 a.m Pacific start time for last year's event, which resulted in talent frustration with their call time being in the early hours of the morning.

So far, Roman Reigns versus CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship and Liv Morgan versus Stephanie Vaquer for the Women's World Title are the only matches confirmed for WrestleMania, but some more matches should be added to the card following this weekend's Elimination Chamber. Additionally, WrestleMania plans are currently said to be "up in the air" due to poor ticket sales, leading there to be uncertainty regarding the creative direction for the event.

Read more: 30 Best Wrestlers Under 30 In 2025, Ranked By Wrestling Inc.

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Read the original article on Wrestling Inc.

For NFL Draft fans, there is nothing quite like the NFL combine. The testing is not much in terms of action, but regardless, it gets you on the edge of your seat for the first time since the Super Bowl.

On Friday, we get to see two position groups on the field with actual testing in the tight ends and defensive backs. Both are positions that the Bucs could use some help at this draft cycle, so we wanted to give you some players to watch today when testing begins at 3:00 p.m. EST on NFL Network.

In this piece, we will focus specifically on defensive backs. It is not the biggest need for the team, given they drafted Benjamin Morrison and Jacob Parrish on day two of the 2025 selection meeting. The team could have a hole to fill if they lose Jamel Dean in free agency, which is why we are highlighting this.

With that in mind, here are five players we are looking forward to seeing test at the NFL combine.

Bud Clark, TCU

One of my favorite prospects from this past year. The instinctive defensive back for the Horned Frogs was a bona fide playmaker for their defense showcased good instincts and movement skills to be in position to make plays. He should be an interesting player to watch test today as a result.

Keith Abney II, Arizona State

Keith Abney II is going to be must-see TV when it comes to the backpedaling drills to illustrate coverage. All season he showcased his footwork and hips to be one of the reasons he can stick with most receivers, not to mention his background as a speed skating national champion doesn't hurt matters.

Brandon Cisse, South Carolina

Brandon Cisse has been getting first-round hype in recent months, but to cement that, he needs to ace his testing. He has the skillset and build to get the team's attention, and the film indicates he should do well on testing. However, if he doesn't do well, he could find himself becoming a second-round pick, which could make him a value.

Domani Jackson, Alabama

One of the more athletic players in the pool of talent in Indianapolis is Domani Jackson out of Alabama. The Crimson Tide defensive back does not have the flashiest of tape, and has some concerns overall that have his draft stock projected to day three. With strong testing, he could creep into the top of day three, or even the back end of day two.

Malik Muhammad, Texas

Malik Muhammad is another player whose film was not the best this past season. But like Jackson, Muhammad has a chance to make folks remember what he is capable of when he tests on Friday. Muhammad right now is shaking on day two ground but could solidify that with some strong testing.

This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 Scouting combine: 5 DB prospects fans should watch

Bay FC have signed Italian striker Cristiana Girelli from Juventus, the reigning champions of the women’s Serie A Femminile, the club announced Friday.

Girelli, 35, will join the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club San Jose, Calif. through August, pending receipt of her P-1 visa and international transfer clearance. She is expected to join Bay FC following her international duty with Italy and their World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden and Denmark on March 3 and 7, respectively.

“At this stage of my career, I felt ready for a new challenge, and the opportunity to come to the United States is incredibly exciting. I’m grateful to Juventus that helped shape me, not just as a player, but as a person,” Girelli said in a statement provided by Bay FC. “The NWSL is one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and I’ve always wanted to test myself in that environment. Joining Bay FC feels like the perfect next step.”

Girelli brings more than 20 years of professional experience for club and country to the Bay Area. She’s been a mainstay at Juventus since she joined the Turin club in 2018 from Brescia, and has altogether scored 250 goals in 400 club appearances. In 2022, Girelli became the eighth female Italian footballer inducted to the Italian Football Hall of Fame. Her last season with Juventus was particularly electric: in addition to claiming the Serie A title with her team, Girelli was the league’s top goal scorer with 19 in 24 appearances and was named MVP.

On the international stage, the 35-year-old national team captain shone for Italy at the Euros last summer; her brace against Norway helped send her country to its first continental semifinal since 1997. She was among the group of older players at that tournament who proved they still had gas in the tank and could successfully combine with and elevate younger players.

“We’re delighted to welcome Cristiana to Bay FC,” said head coach Emma Coates, who was hired in January. “She’s an intelligent and proven goal scorer who brings a wealth of experience and leadership. She has a winning mentality, with values that align perfectly with what we’re building here. She’s another important addition to our squad, and we’re excited to see the impact she’ll have.”

Girelli is likely to step into a role at Bay similar to the one she served with Italy at the Euros. The former’s roster is filled with high-ceiling young talent with plenty to prove after the club’s sophomore slump last season. Earlier this month, Bay FC signed 20-year-old U.S. women’s national team midfielder Claire Hutton from the Kansas City Current for $1.1 million, a landmark signing for the club as it prepares for its third season in the NWSL. Hutton joins another former Current teammate in 18-year-old forward Alex Pfeiffer, who signed with Bay in January. This season is also shaping up to mark the anticipated NWSL debut of 20-year-old attacker Onyeka Gamero, who signed with Bay FC from Barcelona’s B team last June but was working her way back from injury.

Girelli is the fourth Italian player to join the NWSL within the last calendar year. Her teammate on both Juventus and Italy, Sofia Cantore, was the first, signing with the Washington Spirit on June 17 last year. Two months later, the Houston Dash signed defender Lisa Boattin, also a product of Juventus and the Italian national team. And on the last day of 2025, Lucia Di Guglielmo became the third, joining Cantore at the Spirit from Roma.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

Italy, Bay FC, NWSL, Women's Soccer, Women's Euros

2026 The Athletic Media Company

FC Barcelona is practically guaranteed to keep Marcus Rashford for next season. The English striker, aged 28, has exceeded all expectations during his loan, with 10 goals and 11 assists to his name.

In light of these remarkable performances, the Blaugrana club has decided to activate the €30 million purchase option agreed with Manchester United.

The deal is financially attractive for the Catalan club, as the payment would be made in three annual installments of €10 million, according to information from Mundo Deportivo.

Moreover, the sporting management will not have to negotiate terms with the player, since the salary and contract duration (between three and four years) were set in the loan agreement signed last July.

Even though Rashford wants to stay at Spotify Camp Nou, the final decision will depend exclusively on the club’s ability to comply with La Liga’s strict financial fair play parameters. If the wage margin allows, “Rashi” will remain Barça’s attacking reference beyond the 2026 World Cup.

This article was translated into French by artificial intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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

Diego Lopes is pondering changing divisions after failing to capture the UFC featherweight title.

Lopes (27-8 MMA, 6-3 UFC) lost to featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski (28-4 MMA, 15-3 UFC) for a second time at UFC 325 in February, with the rematch being a more decisive win for the champion.

Two title losses has Lopes wondering if a move up to lightweight will help him seek new life in the UFC title picture.

"It's something I've actually been thinking about for a while now," Lopes said of lightweight in a translated interview with Laerte Viana (h/t Championship Rounds). "I've already been talking with the people closest to me, and yes, it's definitely a possibility, but we also have to see what the UFC's plans are, right? So first, I want to sit down, talk to the UFC, see what they have in mind for me, see what they'll tell me, then we'll also give them our opinion from there. But yes, moving up a division is definitely a possibility."

In between his title losses to Volkanovski, Lopes knocked out top contender Jean Silva with a spinning back elbow.

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Diego Lopes: 'Moving up a division is definitely a possibility'

Gabriel Jesus is expected to depart Arsenal at the conclusion of this season, with several clubs already expressing interest in his services.

Although he currently ranks behind Viktor Gyokeres in the pecking order at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta continues to place trust in Jesus, providing him with game time. Having recently returned from injury, the Brazilian is still regaining his best form, but Arsenal rely on his experience and versatility as they pursue success in the remaining fixtures of the campaign.

Contribution to a Historic Season

Arsenal are in contention for four trophies this season, and every member of the squad is expected to contribute toward achieving those goals. While the team possesses quality throughout, relying solely on a handful of players would be insufficient, meaning Jesus’ role remains important through to the season’s end. His presence provides depth, attacking options and the ability to make decisive interventions in key moments.

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Interest from Italy

Looking ahead, it appears unlikely that Jesus will remain at Arsenal beyond this campaign. He has been linked with a move to Serie A, where AC Milan have long been considered the leading suitors. However, according to Tuttojuve, Juventus have also now expressed interest in securing his signature. The Old Lady had sought to strengthen their attacking options during the January transfer window but was unable to complete a deal, making the summer window a key opportunity to bolster their squad.

For Arsenal, preparing for Jesus’ potential departure will be essential, while Juventus and other interested clubs will weigh his experience, technical ability and adaptability as they consider a summer transfer. His next move is likely to be closely monitored across Europe, given his proven quality and pedigree at the top level.

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After eight seasons with the Juventus Women's First Team, Cristiana Girelli will be wearing a different shirt in the coming months. 

The Bianconere number 10 has extended her contract with our club until June 30, 2027, and at the same time, she will be loaned to Bay FC – a Californian team that plays in the National Women's Soccer League – until August 2026.

This is a double announcement for one of the symbols of the Bianconere team, who in recent weeks has achieved a historic double milestone, becoming the player with the most appearances in the history of Juventus Women and, in the same match against Sassuolo, surpassing the 150-goal mark while wearing our shirt.

The numbers and records reflect the journey we have taken together, a journey that began in the summer of 2018 when she arrived at Juve and wore the number 10 shirt for the first time. It was a shirt that had been left without an owner the year before, as if it were waiting for her. A number and a story written in destiny.

Cristiana is a footballer who has made a name for herself thanks to her commitment in every single training session, her dedication and her performances on the pitch – becoming an icon of our club with her goals and exploits.

She is a champion who has represented Juventus both on and off the pitch in recent years, winning five league titles, four Italian Cup trophies, five Italian Super Cups and one Serie A Women's Cup.

Cristiana Girelli | The best

The words of Women’s Football Director, Stefano Braghin:

"Cristiana is a player who has contributed to the history of the Women's project at our club, much more than her statistics suggest, even though they place her at the top in terms of appearances and goals scored. She has been an example for the younger players, a guide for the new arrivals, a guarantee for the coaches who have passed through here, but above all, she has preserved and nurtured the spirit of Juventus as a value to be passed on and a mentality to be lived every day when wearing this shirt. A set of non-negotiable values that make belonging to this club something unique. It was only right to give her such a special experience, both personally and professionally, and it will be wonderful to welcome her back one day to the fire she has helped to keep alive. I bid her farewell until the next trophy we lift together."

Now a new adventure abroad awaits Girelli, the first experience of her career outside Italy: good luck, Cristiana!

The NFL Combine has officially arrived, and things are heating up as we hurl towards the 2026 NFL Draft this April.

One of the more interesting positions in this year’s draft comes at the running back position. It’s a class that has a star at the top, a solid second tier of players, and then a third tier that very well could become immediate contributors at the NFL level. Here are my initial 2026 NFL Draft running back rankings.

1. Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

There is very little that Jeremiyah Love can’t do, which is why he lands at the No. 1 spot of this list. It’s not particularly close, either.

Love’s athletic ability is elite and jumps off the screen every time he takes the field. His speed is about as untouchable as it gets, and he gets up to that top speed in a hurry out of the backfield. On top of that ridiculous athletic ability while carrying the ball, the Notre Dame product can immediately be plugged into an NFL offense’s passing scheme. He caught 25 of his 28 targets either behind the line of scrimmage or from 0-9 yards, and he averaged 9.7 yards after the catch.

The one area where Love can be knocked is his ability in pass protection when he does stay near the pocket on passing downs. At 6 feet tall and 214 pounds, he isn’t particularly built to hold up as a blocker, but with his receiving ability, he shouldn’t be in this role too much to begin with.

2. Jonah Coleman, Washington

Jonah Coleman is a bowling ball at the running back position at 5’9″ and 228 pounds, and that makes him a very difficult player for opposing defenses to tackle.

Coleman is a very physical player and absorbs contact as well as any running back in this draft class. He is very patient behind the line of scrimmage, is a great workhorse back, and he can also contribute in pass protection and as a receiver. He caught 31 passes this past season with the Washington Huskies. On top of that, his ball security is elite. He fumbled just twice throughout his collegiate career on 639 touches.

Coleman’s ceiling is limited by his lack of breakaway speed, meaning he probably won’t ever be a competitor to lead the NFL in rushing yards. Still, he should have a long, productive NFL career and could go down as the modern day version of Frank Gore if he lives up to his potential.

3. Emmett Johnson, Nebraska

It’s been awhile since Nebraska has had a high end running back, but Emmett Johnson changed the tides in the backfield this season for the Cornhuskers. He became the first Nebraska running back with 1000+ yards since Devine Ozigbo in 2018.

Johnson thrives in zone running schemes, and he was one of the most explosive playmakers out of the backfield in all of college football this season. His 36 carries of 10+ yards tied for sixth in the FBS. He also led all running backs in the FBS with 46 receptions.

At 5’11” and 200 pounds, Johnson has a sturdy frame to along with outstanding breakaway speed and ability to change directions on a dime. He needs to get better as a blocker if he wants to truly help an NFL passing game, but with the receiving ability, he can get away with being a checkdown option (or down the field receiver option) more than a blocking presence.

4. Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

While Jeremiyah Love stole much of the spotlight at Notre Dame this past year, Jadarian Price should not be overlooked heading into this draft. In an offense that had a top Heisman candidate in Love, Price still managed to get 120 carries in 2024 and 113 carries in 2025.

There’s a reason for that: Price is a very effective player. Every movement Price makes in the backfield seems effortless and entirely intentional. He has a terrific ability to make cuts in the blink of an eye, leaving defenses with virtually no time to react, or he’ll be gone.

That being said, there are some questions that could impact his placement in the draft. We’ve never seen him be a lead running back at the collegiate level, which is a very unique position for a player who is widely considered to be a Day 2 selection. He could also have some trouble staying on the field on third downs, particularly in passing situations. He only caught 15 passes over the course of his three years at Notre Dame.

5. Kaytron Allen, Penn State

Like Coleman, Kaytron Allen has a very sturdy frame that keeps his legs churning through defenders. Of his 1303 rushing yards this season, 792 of them came after contact. That was the 16th-most in all of the FBS this past year.

Allen (5’11”, 229 pounds) has been a very productive player at Penn State since he arrived in 2022, totaling at least 167 carries in all four of his seasons with the Nittany Lions. He’s proven time and time again that he can be a workhorse, and a very explosive burst allows him to get to the second level of a defense in a hurry.

However, he also lacks that true home run speed like Coleman. Unlike Coleman, though, Allen also has struggled as a receiver, which may force him off the field on third down passing situations. In 2025, he caught 18 passes for just 68 yards.

6. Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest

Demond Claiborne is a home run hitter at the running back position. He has breakaway speed that few can keep up with in space, and he possesses outstanding lateral quickness, forcing missed tackles in open space.

On top of the abilities on offense, Claiborne can also contribute on special teams as a kick returner. He took two kickoffs to the house during his collegiate career before giving up the role during the 2025 season.

However, at 5’10” and 195 pounds, he doesn’t really have the build to be a lead back at the NFL level, which likely will limit his ceiling.

7. Mike Washington, Arkansas

Mike Washington has a real chance to be one of the steals of this draft class if he ends up falling into the middle rounds. He has elite size at 6’2″ and 228 pounds, and he almost certainly will threaten 4.4 speed in the 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine.

Washington has great vision in the backfield, patiently waiting for lanes to open up before using that explosive ability to pick up yards in a hurry with big strides. He also has a knack for falling forward which is what you want to see in a running back prospect to pick up an extra yard or two.

So what gives? Why is he not a top 5 running back in this class? Well, the fumble issues could be catastrophic for him at the NFL level. He fumbled 10 times during his five-year collegiate career, including seven fumbles over the past two seasons.

8. Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M

Like Mike Washington, Le’Veon Moss has the tools to be an NFL running back. He has a punishing running style and pushes through contact to gain extra yards (big, physical guys are a theme of this RB class if you haven’t noticed).

His balance and patience in the backfield is a notable strength that draws some comparison to Le’Veon Bell, and when he does decide to burst through a hole, he does it with explosive speed and power.

All that being said, injury troubles have followed Moss throughout his collegiate career. In four years, he never managed to play 10 games at Texas A&M, suffering serious ankle and knee injuries in his career. If he stays healthy, Moss can surpass this draft ranking, but it’s hard to bank too much on that right now.

Editor’s Note: Information from Pro Football Focus and Sports Reference CFB helped with this article.

We’re coming towards the end of this little series, which has served its purpose of keeping us ticking over during the long, bleak weeks before spring training gets under way. But if we were somewhat self-referential with yesterday’s question about the Diamondbacks’ fanbase, I want to go fully self-referential today. Let’s have a love-fest! We deserve one before the season begins, and we all start ripping each other’s throats outs over Jordan Lawlar plate-appearances… 🙂

Tag a commenter who makes this place better.

We’re family here. A weird, somewhat dysfunctional family. But a family none the less: rather than common DNA, it’s our love of and support for the Arizona Diamondbacks which unites us. And, like any family, there are all manner of personalities: all of whom you love, as a matter of principle. But if your family is anything like mine, some probably more than others! Of course, you already know all the writers are awesome. [That sentence will hopefully not be used against me in the upcoming CBA negotiations!] But who among your fellow commentors do you feel adds extra value to this place?

Sunday evening’s clash between Roma and Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico carries enormous weight in the race for Champions League football, and both sides have received welcome fitness news ahead of what promises to be a compelling encounter.

Juventus will be boosted by the return of Gleison Bremer, who is expected to start at the heart of defence alongside Lloyd Kelly.

The Brazilian centre-back’s presence will be a significant lift for Luciano Spalletti, whose side head to Rome looking to close the gap on the top four after a difficult run of results.

PARMA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 01: Bremer of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Francisco Conceicao during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and Juventus FC at Stadio Ennio Tardini on February 01, 2026 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

With Manuel Locatelli suspended, Teun Koopmeiners is the likeliest candidate to fill the midfield void, while Jonathan David is expected to lead the attack once again, supported by Francisco Conceição, Weston McKennie and Kenan Yildiz behind him.

Roma vs Juventus – Dybala & Bremer fit again

For Roma, the headline team news is Paulo Dybala’s return to fitness, with the latest updates courtesy of Sky Sport Italia.

The Argentine forward has trained fully with the group and is available to face his former club, a fixture that always carries personal significance for ‘La Joya’.

However, a start from the first minute looks unlikely given the time he has spent on the sidelines, with Gian Piero Gasperini expected to use him from the bench. Donyell Malen is set to lead the Roma attack, with Manu Koné and Bryan Cristante providing the midfield backbone.

TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 18: Paulo Dybala of AS Roma in action during the Serie A match between Torino FC and AS Roma at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on January 18, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

There is less positive news elsewhere in the Roma camp, with both Matias Soulé and Mario Hermoso ruled out of the match, leaving Gasperini with limited options as he prepares his side for a fixture that could prove pivotal in determining who secures Champions League football next season.

Both Softball and Baseball are in action today. Discuss all of the action here! First up Softball with a double header against Stetson and then Idaho State

Where: Jane Sanders Stadium, Eugene Oregon

When: 12:30 vs Stetson 3:30 vs Idaho State

Watch: B1G+

Listen: KWVA

Baseball plays its first big game of the season against former PAC-12 rival Arizona in Las Vegas

Where: Las Vegas, Nevada

When: 6:00 PM

Watch: D1Baseball

Listen: Oregon Sports Network

Every year since joining BTSC in 2024, Ryan Parish has put together a draft gems list. This series is not meant to predict who the Steelers will pick, but rather highlight players Ryan thinks will be viable NFL players, and should be available in Rounds 2-7.Looking for more? Check out Ryan’s picks this year atwide receiver.

While it may not be at the top of the Steelers’ draft list, linebacker is one of the deeper position groups in the 2026 class. It is also one of the sneakier needs for Pittsburgh. Patrick Queen has been a rumored cap casualty since the season ended, but even if he remains in Pittsburgh for the final year of his contract next season, it’s hard to foresee the Steelers extending him for big money. Payton Wilson also had a somewhat disappointing second season. While he still shows promise in pass coverage, he has struggled in early downs against the run and ceded snaps to Malik Harrison down the stretch. Harrison is the inverse, a player that a liability in pass coverage, but adequate enough against the run. Cole Holecomb is a free agent, and Carson Bruener is likely to remain on special teams. That sounds like a room that could use a talent infusion to me.

For this series, we’ll be entering some uncharted territory. While I’ve looked at edge linebackers previously, this will be the first time I’ve taken a crack at an inside linebacker class. In many ways, this will be a learning experience for me. I have a loose idea of some positional benchmarks in terms of size and athletic testing, but I will be curious to look back on this process next year and see if there is anything I glean from this year’s process.

As always:

• Any player selected for this list cannot be commonly mocked as a 1st round pick
• I also avoid players who will have a profile written on BTSC. Paired with the previous rule, this year that disqualifies: Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, C.J. Allen, and Jacob Rodriguez.
• Because this list is meant to dig deep into the draft, I will try my best not to give you a majority of second-rounders, though I’m not excluding that tier of prospect entirely. I believe up to four linebackers could be drafted in the second round — Rodriguez, Anthony Hill Jr., Josiah Trotter, and my selection for this list — so I will only pick one from that group.

With no further delay, these are my 2026 Draft Gems linebackers.

Jake Golday, Cincinnati

Age: 22 (05-23-2003)

Height/weight: 6’4 ^1/2, 239 pounds

Arm Length: 31 ^7/8”, 76⅞ ” wingspan

RAS: 9.84

Golday’s athleticism, length, versatility, and general blue-collar attitude were all major selling points for me. A former defensive end with few offers coming out of high school, Golday spent three seasons at Central Arkansas before transferring to Cincinnati in 2024. The Bearcats deployed him all over the field, lining him up at Mike and Sam linebacker, as a defensive end/edge, and even deploying him as a slot defender for 501 snaps in his college career.

Golday has enough size and power to take on blocks in the run game, and enough speed, range, and change of direction skills to be effective in pass coverage. I do think he needs to work on his reaction time against the run, as he can sometimes be a beat late triggering down; I think that’s something that can be coached up in him, however, as he’s still relatively new to the position, having played it for about three years. While I think he could step in and play right away, Golday shared, “I’m telling everybody that I’ll play special teams. I’ll play any special teams that I’m asked. I’m a guy that’s going to go in and just contribute any way.”

Golday was one of the few prospects to compete in all of the drills, another quality I like. In an era where so many prospects elect not to fully compete at the Combine for fear of hurting themselves — both literally and figuratively — it’s refreshing to see a guy that just loves the game and the process, and is willing to put it all on the line. Golday’s 7.02-second 3-cone drill, which measures agility and change of direction, was a better time than Combine standout Sonny Styles’ (7.09) mark.

Deontae Lawson, Alabama

Age: 23 (02-11-2003)

Height/weight: 6’3, 226 pounds

Arm Length: 31 ^7/8’’

RAS: *Will update once released*

Lawson is another likely Day 2 prospect, though he is more likely to fall to the third round.

Pros:

• Experienced (2,461 snaps on defense)
• Fast on tape
• Rangey in coverage
• Has some pass rush upside (52 pressures, 8 sacks in college career)

Cons:

• Light for a linebacker at 226 pounds, can show up engaging with climbing blockers
• Inconsistent tackler. 16.3% missed tackle rate in 2025, 12.2% in 2024
• Injury history. Had a quad injury in 2023, an ACL tear in Nov. 2024, and other smaller dings and bruises can pop up and affect him during a season

Though Lawson didn’t participate in the Combine drills, he looks plenty athletic on tape. I’d like to see him add on a bit more weight at the pro level, but he’s a defender who is more slippery against blocks than he is overpowering. He might ultimately be too similar to Payton Wilson’s skillset, but as we go deeper into the draft, these prospects will all have flaws. Lawson isn’t my favorite linebacker on this list, but his role as a sub-package linebacker is easy to envision should the Steelers want to hedge their bets on Wilson.

Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State

Age: 22 (12-12-2003)

Height/weight: 6’2, 231 pounds

Arm Length: 31 ^1/4’’

RAS:*Will update once released*

Elliott was one of my favorite prospects at the Senior Bowl. He hadn’t really been on my radar prior to that week, but he rarely came off the field during practices and was always around the ball. His size falls in line with modern linebackers, and he’s great at taking on blocks against the run and then making the tackle. He didn’t run a 40-yard dash, but he did do the jump drills, which highlight a prospect’s explosiveness. His 38” vertical (91st percentile for ILB) and his 125” broad jump (96th percentile) shows up as burst on tape when he triggers down on a run or on a pass in the flat.

A former quarterback in high school, Elliott sees the field really well. He’s still developing in pass coverage, but if the Steelers are looking to supplement Wilson’s skillset with a thumper against the run, Elliott fits the bill. He also took a big step as a pass rusher this year, collecting seven sacks and 15 pressures on just 24 pass rush snaps, according to PFF.

Elliott was described as a high-character guy during my week in Mobile, and getting an opportunity to talk to him, I agree that he’s got the focus and temperament that coaches love to have on a roster.

Bryce Boettcher, Oregon

Age: 23 (07-08-2002)

Height/weight: 6’1, 233 pounds

Arm Length: 30 ^3/4’’

RAS: *Will update once released*

Boettcher is another player who lives around the ball. He’s another of a handful of linebackers in this class who started out as a safety. A two-sport athlete — he was drafted by the Houston Astros in 2024 — who walked on at Oregon, Boetcher’s game is highlighted by his intensity and commitment. At bare minimum, he’s a player who could carve out a long career as a special teams player.

Boettcher moves well in pass coverage, allowing just six yards per reception and a QB passer rating of 74.7 in 2025. He’s also a sure tackler with a career missed tackle rate right at 10%. He’s aggressive against the run, which can lead to him blowing up plays, but also makes him susceptible at times to play action or cutback lanes. He’s got adequate but not elite speed. He also has experience as a green dot for the Ducks. I see his size and athleticism dropping him to a Day 3 pick, but he’s got the mentality and the drive to make a long career.

Jack Kelly, BYU

Age: 23 (01-02-2003)

Height/weight: 6’2, 240 pounds

Arm Length: 31 ^1/8’’

RAS: 9.83

I debated on whether I should include Kelly here with the linebackers or bump him over with the edges. He ran with the backers instead of the edges at the Combine, and does have enough upside as a sideline to sideline backer that I felt good about putting him on this list.

But if we’re leading with Kelly’s best trait, it’s undoubtedly as a pass rusher. Kelly had 576 pass rush snaps in his college career, and he created pressure on 128 (22.2%) of them. Whether it’s from the edge or up the middle, Kelly’s got an explosive first step and trigger.

While the body types look different, and I think Nick Herbig has more lateral twitch in his game, Kelly’s height, weight, arm length, 40-yard time, and 10-yard split are all near matches to Herbig.

Kelly moves better than you’d assume, given his thick torso. He can cover sideline to sideline, though I question if he has the speed necessary against wide zone runs against backs with elite speed. Again, he isn’t a blue-chip linebacker by any means, but as a guy who could play some special teams, give some juice to the pass rush, and potentially develop into an Elandon Roberts-style run defender (eight career forced fumbles), I can think of worse ways to spend a Day 3 pick.

Khalil “Red” Murdock, Buffalo

Age: 22 (09-24-2003)

Height/weight: 6’2, 232 pounds

Arm Length: 31’’

RAS:*Will update once released*

Lastly, if the Steelers are looking for a brawler in the middle of their second level, look no further than the product out of Buffalo. Murdock doesn’t have top-end speed, which could limit his role to an early-down linebacker, but he has great instincts and production. Over the past three seasons, he’s produced 39.5 tackles for loss, and his 17 career forced fumbles is an NCAA record. In 2025, he turned 47 pass rush opportunities into 20 pressures and six sacks.

And Murdock can deliver bone-rattling hits that pop off your screen.

How his speed translates to the NFL could be a sticking point in his career, but I once again am reminded of Elandon Roberts. Roberts was also not the most agile of players, but he was a fan favorite for his ability to crash downhill and make stops. I could see Murdock filling such a role.

What do you think of these LB prospects? Would you like the Steelers to draft any of them? Who was your favorite? Did I leave one of your favorites out? Let us know in the comments!

Former Bayern Munich manager and current Borussia Dortmund boss Niko Kovač likes to play up his team as an underdog — and he did not disappoint with his Friday press conference ahead of Der Klassiker.

“FC Bayern are a top team that will demand a lot from us. We have to play a perfect game from the first to the last second, because that’s the ultimate standard in Europe. We need to take our second-half performance in Munich as a reference. We played well back then. We need to be brave in possession and keep the ball for long spells. But it also depends on the opponent, who will certainly want to impose their game on us. It will be a very intense match for 90 minutes,” Kovač said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).

Kovač was also asked if there was any lingering effect from his team’s shocking Champions League elimination at the hands of Atalanta on Wednesday. The coach did not think that would be the case.

“We’ve worked through it with the players, but we’ve also said that the focus will be on the future. Now we have to focus on tomorrow’s game. We are all looking forward to it. We have a very fit squad. It was certainly a very intense match, mentally as well. But we will field eleven players who will give their all. They will do everything they can to beat the German champions here in our stadium with our fans,” Kovač stated.

If you are looking for more Bayern Munich and German national team coverage, check out the latest episodes of Bavarian Podcast Works, which you can get on Acast, Spotify, Apple, or any leading podcast distributor…

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Roma and Juventus face each other this Sunday at the Stadio Olimpico for round 27 of the Serie A. The match will be broadcast live at 19:45 on TNT Sports 2.

Roma have won 50 points to date and are placed in 3rd position. In their last match, Gian Piero Gasperini's team prevailed 3-0 against Cremonese (Serie A 2025/26).

Juventus have picked up 46 points and currently lie in 5th position. In their last fixture, Luciano Spalletti's team won 3-2 against Galatasaray (UEFA Champions League 2025/26).

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Juventus winning 2-1.

Predicted lineups

Roma: Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka, Daniele Ghilardi, Zeki Çelik, Bryan Cristante, Manu Koné, Wesley França, Bryan Zaragoza, Donyell Malen, Lorenzo Pellegrini

Juventus: Michele Di Gregorio, Federico Gatti, Bremer, Lloyd Kelly, Weston McKennie, Teun Koopmeiners, Khéphren Thuram, Andrea Cambiaso, Fabio Miretti, Lois Openda, Kenan Yildiz

Unavailable

Roma

• Artem Dovbyk - Hamstring Injury
• Matìas Soulé - Unknown Injury
• Evan Ferguson - Ankle Problems
• Stephan El Shaarawy - Achilles Tendon Irritation

Juventus

• Dusan Vlahovic - Adductor Injury
• Emil Holm - Calf Muscle Tear

Last starting XIs

Roma ( vs Cremonese 2026-02-22): Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Evan Ndicka, Daniele Ghilardi, Zeki Çelik, Manu Koné, Bryan Cristante, Wesley França, Bryan Zaragoza, Donyell Malen, Lorenzo Pellegrini

Juventus ( vs Galatasaray 2026-02-25): Mattia Perin, Pierre Kalulu, Federico Gatti, Lloyd Kelly, Weston McKennie, Khéphren Thuram, Manuel Locatelli, Teun Koopmeiners, Francisco Conceição, Jonathan David, Kenan Yildiz

Did you know...by playmaker stats

MANAGERS

• Gian Piero Gasperini has faced Luciano Spalletti on 16 occasions, recording four wins, three draws, and nine defeats
• Luciano Spalletti has faced Roma on 23 occasions, recording seven wins, eight draws, and eight defeats
• Gian Piero Gasperini has faced Juventus on 40 occasions, recording six wins, 13 draws, and 21 defeats

TEAMS

• Away from home, Juventus currently has one draw in the last 11 games.
• Away from home, Juventus currently has one victory in the last six games.
• Away from home, Juventus has conceded goals in four consecutive games.
• Away from home, Juventus has gone three consecutive games without winning.
• Away from home, Juventus has three consecutive defeats.
• Juventus currently has one victory in the last six games.
• Juventus has conceded goals in seven consecutive games.
• At home, Roma currently has one defeat in the last eight games.
• At home, Roma currently has one draw in the last 18 games.
• At home, Roma has scored in eight consecutive games.
• At home, Roma has gone four consecutive games without losing.
• At home, Roma has two consecutive victories.
• Roma currently has one defeat in the last eight games.
• Roma currently has three draws in the last 35 games.
• Roma has scored in three consecutive games.
• Roma has gone three consecutive games without losing.

HEAD TO HEAD

• Roma and Juventus have faced each other 203 times, with Juventus having the advantage: 96 wins, against 49 victories for Roma.
• At the Stadio Olimpico, Roma has the advantage in clashes against Juventus: 36 wins in 100 games. Juventus has 29 victories.
• In the Italian League, there have been 187 matches between the two teams, with 42 wins for Roma, 56 draws, and 89 victories for Juventus.

Today the Texas Rangers are back to playing only one spring training game. That game will be played from Camelback Ranch in Glendale, AZ where the Rangers will take on the Chicago White Sox.

LHP MacKenzie Gore is set to take the mound for Texas opposite RHP Erick Fedde for Chicago.

Chicago has a radio and video feed for this one, otherwise you’ll have to follow along on Gameday. First pitch from Camelback Ranch is scheduled for 2:05 pm CT.

Go Rangers!

Cristiana Girelli has left an indelible mark on the history of Juventus, helping to write the most important pages of our Women's First Team successes through her goals.

Never more so than in her case do the numbers speak for themselves – she holds the record for appearances with 241 matches played wearing the Juventus Women's First Team shirt and is the top scorer with 150 goals. She has made a fundamental contribution to the 15 trophies won so far in black and white, including league titles, Italian Cups, Italian Super Cups and the Serie A Women's Cup.

Below are some of her records in the Serie A Women's Championship; no one has managed to rule the roost in front of goal like Cristiana:

• ⁠Since Juventus' debut season in Serie A (2017/18), Cristiana Girelli is the player with the most appearances (241) and goals scored (150) in a Juventus shirt across all competitions.
• Cristiana Girelli is the footballer who has scored the most goals in Serie A wearing the Juventus shirt (107), at least 41 more than any other player (Barbara Bonansea is second with 66).
• Since her debut season with Juventus in Serie A (2018/19), Cristiana Girelli has scored the most goals in the top flight (107), at least 18 more than any other player during that period (Valentina Giacinti is second with 89).
• Starting from the 2020/21 Serie A season, Cristiana Girelli is the player who has scored the most goals (78) and, more generally, who has been involved in the most goals in the tournament (101 – 78G, 23A).
• Also since 2020/21, no women's player had more multi-goal games than Cristiana Girelli in Serie A (14, alongside Valentina Giacinti).
• In the last six Serie A seasons (since 2020/21), Cristiana Girelli is the only player to have both scored and provided assists in a single match more than 10 times (11 for the Juventus player).

Cristiana Girelli | The best

Indiana football has taken over the spotlight here in the latter half of the week, as former Hoosiers began the NFL Combine process, giving interviews and meeting with teams ahead of this spring’s draft. Omar Cooper Jr. in particular has been attracting attention as a rising prospect, meeting with a number of teams looking to add a receiver, including the Bills and Commanders.

Here’s what to know about the Hoosiers today:

What they’re saying about the Hoosiers

• The Athletic:Ten prospects for the 49ers to watch this week, including Omar Cooper and Kenyon Sadiq
• Sports Illustrated: Indiana’s D’Angelo Ponds Says Curt Cignetti Called His Shot on National Title in 2024
• Indiana Daily Student: Louis Moore left Indiana football once. He does so again at peace ahead of the NFL
• CBS News: Bracketology Bubble Watch: Indiana’s brutal loss to Northwestern drops Hoosiers to Next Four Out
• The Daily Herald: Make no mistake, Indiana is a football school. It’s not even close

Around SB Nation

• Bracketology AMA: Give our expert your men’s March Madness questions
• Fernando Mendoza references Tom Brady when asked about draft position
• Sonny Styles is having a LEGENDARY NFL Combine
• NFL mock draft 2026: Updated projection with 3 needs for every team before Combine
• NFL combine 2026: Defensive NFL Draft prospects who could shatter expectations

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The Barn

1:00

FS1

UCLA

Minnesota Golden Gophers
Record: 13-15 (6-11)
KenPom Rank: 69

UCLA Bruins
Record: 19-9 (11-6)
KenPom Rank: 40

If I’m being honest, I know very little about the Bruins (18 teams in the Big Ten is a lot to keep track of). But I do know that coach Mick Cronin has often been very unhappy with his team’s toughness. He is also frequently unhappy about having to travel to the Midwest to play basketball games where his team is 1-5 in Big Ten road games that are not on the West Coast. Mostly, he is just an unhappy man, but these two things have been recurring themes over the last two years.

Minnesota’s toughness might actually be their greatest attribute. Can they use this, and their location, to pull out an upset win over the Bruins?

KEYS TO A GOPHER WIN

Wake up! – It would be helpful if the Bruins are sleepy and the Gophers’ Iron-6 jump on them early. They really do struggle away from the West Coast. I mentioned their 1-5 record this year, and they finished 2-5 last year. Their trip to Minnesota and the early(ish) tip-off are potentially beneficial for the Gophers…if they wake up ready to play.

Attack and get to the FT line – This Bruins team fouls a lot and gives opportunities at the line for their opponent. Which is also something the Gophers have been adept at. Attack the rim, get to the free-throw line and make them.

Defend the three – Tyler Bilodeau and Skyy Clark are two of the best three-point shooters in the Big Ten. Bilodeau is shooting almost 45% from three with a team-leading 116 attempts and Clark has attempted 84 threes, making over 47% of them. UCLA as a team does not attempt very many threes, just over 20 attempts per game, but they make them at a high percentage. This will make the Gopher’s zone an interesting decision.

PREDICTION

Both of these teams LOVE a slower-paced game. And both of these teams do a pretty good job of managing turnovers. I would not expect a very high-scoring game.

The question for me is, can the Gophers play physical and with more mental toughness than UCLA and pull out a gritty win?

Minnesota – 68
UCLA – 64

Day 2 of interviews at the NFL Scouting Combine occurred on Thursday in Indianapolis. Teams and reporters got a chance to meet with defensive backs and tight ends in the 2026 draft class. Among some of the bigger names were projected first-round safety talents like Ohio State’s Caleb Down and Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman.

However, one name that did stick out from the list that revealed meetings with the Kansas City Chiefs this week: Arizona Wildcats safety Genisis Smith, who confirmed to reporters that he had a formal meeting with Kansas City.

Background

Smith was a three-star recruit coming out of Chandler, Arizona, where he attended Hamilton High School. He was the 53rd-ranked safety in the 2023 recruiting class and the eleventh overall athlete in the state of Arizona. During his recruiting process, Smith received offers from Arizona State, Washington and Iowa State, among others, but ultimately chose to be a Wildcat.

Smith was recruited by current Arizona safeties coach Chuck Cecil, who you may remember was once the Tennessee Titans‘ defensive coordinator from 2009-2011.

Smith ran track in high school, where he competed in the 4×400 relay, the high jump (personal best of 6 feet 2 inches) and the long jump, (personal best of 21 feet 1 inch).

He is also very active in his community: he founded the Genesis Smith Foundation while he was at Arizona, whose mission is:

The Genesis Smith Foundation intertwines the unifying and transformative power of sports with community-driven initiatives that prioritize mentorship, accessibility, and holistic support. By bridging critical resources with safe spaces for growth, we offer a hand up, not a hand out—empowering youth and families to overcome challenges, cultivate resilience, and embrace their fullest potential. In doing so, we inspire a ripple effect of change, fostering interconnected communities rooted in confidence, compassion, and equity—communities resolutely committed to the boundless pursuit of opportunity, inclusion, and shared growth.

My analysis

Smith is a 6-foot-2, 202-pound, long-limbed safety with range and ball-hawking skills; he mentally processes the game well and uses it to his advantage more than his athleticism. He is not slow by any means, but he can struggle to change direction and his footwork can be sloppy at times.

That being said, he has fluid hips and can flip them without losing momentum. Plus, he tracks deep balls well and does not panic at the catch point. He is a smart player, and he is rarely out of place early in the down, but he can struggle to hang with smaller receivers when the play is extended.

Smith shows a good motor and rallies to the football. He is a willing tackler in the run game, but he does need to work on his tackling form; he can fail to wrap guys up from time to time, which led to him having 18 missed tackles last season, according to Pro Football Focus.

He profiles as the movable chess piece that Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo likes to have on his defense. In 2025, Smith played 319 snaps on or near the line of scrimmage, compared to 451 snaps aligned deep.

Smith is a glue guy in the locker room and a team captain. While his stats don’t jump off the page — like five interceptions over his entire college career — part of that is because, since he has such a mastery of the playbook, and rarely blows his assignment, quarterbacks rarely throw his way. Out of 382 coverage snaps last season, Smith was targeted just 23 times.

Unlike Kansas City, Arizona does not send safeties on blitzes a lot — but based on his tape, it’s not hard to envision that Smith has the smarts, savvy and size to be effective in that role for Spags.

Fit with the Chiefs

Fit: Very High

Round grade: Late-third or fourth round

With Bryan Cook and Mike Edwards both hitting free agency, the safety position is a need for the Chiefs. However, given the other needs on this roster, it’s easy to see general manager Brett Veach being hesitant to spend a top-100 pick on a safety. Smith could be a good value in the middle rounds and would be an instant upgrade near the line of scrimmage over the current players fitting into that role for Kansas City.

When you watch Smith’s tape, you notice that he and Jaden Hicks have a lot in common in the way they play football. That being said, I believe Smith’s upside might be a little higher than Hicks.

Sagnuolo’s defense is at its best when he has a smart and hard-nosed safety roaming the secondary, and Smith fits that bill to a T. More than being a pretty good football player, he is a great fit for what the Chiefs want to do on defense.

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Two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference do battle when Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons host James Harden and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

With Cleveland banged up, Detroit is a 6-point home favorite, but my Cavs vs. Pistons predictions break down why the East’s No. 1 seed still deserves more respect.

Read more in my NBA picks for this matchup, set to tip off at 7:00 p.m. ET from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.

Cavaliers vs Pistons prediction

Cavaliers vs Pistons best bet: Pistons -6 (-110)

It feels like people aren’t giving the Detroit Pistons enough respect. Cade Cunningham and Jaren Duren are stars, and the only team that has a better net rating than the Pistons this season is the Oklahoma City Thunder.

They’ve also been a great team at home this season, going 22-7 with an average margin of victory of 10.3 points.

Meanwhile, the acquisition of James Harden has been a home run for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately, he’s questionable to play with a thumb injury while Donovan Mitchell is already out.

That’s too much to overcome against this really great Pistons team.

Cavaliers vs Pistons same-game parlay

Sure, the James Harden thing has worked for Cleveland so far. But he won’t help the fact that the Cavaliers allow the fifth-most points per game to opposing guards. Give me Cade to go Over 25.5 points, something he’s done in eight of his last 11 games.

The Pistons are also an elite rebounding team, ranking second in rebounding rate. Tobias Harris has hauled down six or more rebounds in seven of his last eight games, and with the Cavs potentially down their top two shooters, there could be plenty of boards up for grabs.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Pistons -6
• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Tobias Harris Over 5.5 rebounds

Our "from downtown" SGP: Cade!

Cade is getting some MVP buzz down the stretch, and a big game against an East contender could bolster that case.

Cavaliers vs Pistons SGP

• Cade Cunningham Over 25.5 points
• Cade Cunningham Over 5.5 rebounds
• Cade Cunningham Over 9.5 assists
• Cade Cunningham Over 1.5 steals

Cavaliers vs Pistons odds

• Spread: Cavaliers +6 | Pistons -6
• Moneyline: Cavaliers +200 | Pistons -240
• Over/Under: Over 227 | Under 227

Cavaliers vs Pistons betting trend to know

The Pistons have covered the 1H spread in 28 of their last 45 games (+10.75 Units / 21% ROI). Find more NBA betting trends for Cavaliers vs. Pistons.

How to watch Cavaliers vs Pistons

Cavaliers vs Pistons latest injuries

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With the 2025 NFL season now officially concluded, the offseason picture will soon begin to take shape. The first and biggest upcoming period on the docket is free agency, which is only a few weeks away. For the Baltimore Ravens, this free agency cycle will be a significant one.

Coming off a disappointing non-playoff season, the Ravens cleaned house in their coaching staff and will need to retool the roster to quickly return to contender status. The Ravens have clear positional needs this offseason and other areas where they can improve upon current strengths. Free agency is a prime opportunity to do this.

Let’s take a look at some of the top available free agents at one position group, edge rusher, who could be realistic targets for the Ravens to pursue. This will only include external free agents, not the team’s own players who will be hitting the open market.

Odafe Oweh, Los Angeles Chargers

Oweh is one of the top pass-rushers available this offseason and is set to cash in after a strong second-half campaign in 2024 with the Chargers. After was traded from Baltimore to Los Angeles, Oweh recorded 7.5 sacks, 13 quarterback hits, eight tackles for loss and 19 pressures over the final 12 games of the season. He thrived in Jesse Minter’s defensive system and capped it off with a three-sack performance in the AFC Wild Card round of the postseason. Oweh had a disappointing start to the year with the Ravens amidst high expectations but was coming off a career-best season in 2024. He should be ascending into his prime at 27 years old and a reunion with the team that drafted him — to play under Minter once more — would be a great story.

Boye Mafe, Seattle Seahawks

Mafe was a second-round pick in 2022 and has played all four seasons with the Seahawks. He’s fluctuated between a starting and rotational role during his career thus far but has proven he can be an impact player. Mafe’s production dipped across the board in 2025 as his playing time decreased. In 31 games (27 starts) over the previous two years, though, Mafe totaled 15 combined sacks along with two forced fumbles, 28 quarterback hits, 17 tackles for loss and 46 pressures. The former Minnesota product has high-level athletic traits and has likely yet to hit his full ceiling at 27 years old. Some team will take a bet on him as a guaranteed rotational contributor with the chance to become more — the Ravens profile as a solid fit.

Bradley Chubb, Miami Dolphins

Chubb just recently joined the free agent market after he was released by the Dolphins earlier this month. The 30-year-old veteran is likely to have numerous suitors as a big-name, former No. 5 overall pick. Chubb played five seasons for the Denver Broncos, who drafted him, before being traded halfway through 2022. He missed the entire 2024 campaign with a torn ACL but played 17 games last season, totaling 8.5 sacks, 22 pressures, 20 quarterback hits, and two forced fumbles. Injuries have been a recurring issue for Chubb but when healthy, he’s proven to be a disruptive impact player. He’s only two years removed from leading the NFL in forced fumbles with six, along with 11.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss and career-highs in tackles (73) and quarterback hits (22).

Khalil Mack, Los Angeles Chargers

Mack is one of the oldest free agents available at 35 years old. Despite his age, the 12-year veteran has demonstrated in recent years that he can still be a valuable defensive contributor. Mack is three seasons removed from racking up a career-best 17 sacks. He’s made 27 starts over the past two years and produced combined totals of 11.5 sacks, 26 quarterback hits, six forced fumbles and 45 pressures. Mack is no longer in his athletic prime but is plenty effective in a rotational role. Like Oweh, he could be a candidate to follow Minter from Los Angeles to Baltimore. The Ravens have a history signing big-name veterans who are older and getting good performance out of them. Mack would be a good fit from an on-field perspective and also as a locker room presence.

K’Lavon Chaisson, New England Patriots

Another former first-round pick, Chaisson is coming off the best season of his six-year career. The 2020 LSU product had underwhelmed in his tenure with the Jacksonville Jaguars through the first four years of his NFL journey before joining the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024 and New England Patriots in 2025. With the Patriots, Chaisson started 10 of 16 games and played 67% of the team’s defensive snaps (639 total). Chaisson racked up career-best marks in sacks (7.5), quarterback hits (18), forced fumbles (two), and pressures (23), among other categories. He also returned a fumble for a touchdown. At just 26 years old, Chaisson could be a late bloomer and establish himself now as a consistent impact defender.

What do you think about these free agent options for the Ravens at interior offensive line? Are there other available players not listed you think the team should pursue? Join in the discussion and share your thoughts below!

There has been plenty of speculation as to whether new Boston Celtics big man Nikola Vucevic will be starting or coming off the bench for the Celtics. Now attention turns to that question for when star Boston forward Jayson Tatum returns to action from the Achilles tendon injury he picked up in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals.

And while we do not yet have an answer to that particular potential conundrum, we do know how the former Chicago Bulls center feels about coming off the bench for Boston at the moment. "When I got to Boston and (was) talking to (Celtics head coach) Joe (Mazzulla), he had mentioned that," said Vooch in an interview with NBC Sports Boston. "And in our conversation, I told him I was open to (it)."

"I didn't mind if my role would be different, if I'd come off the bench, if my minutes were different and he just ... asked me to be flexible to start off the bench and see how it goes and figure out the minutes and everything," he added.

"And I told him I was open to that," continued Vucevic "I didn't know that was an issue for me. I knew it would be an adjustment, when you start for so long, you have a certain routine, you go from the warm-up straight to the intro to playing."

"Now it's that you sit on a bench for a little bit and, so it was an adjustment. I think the first game I was just excited to be out there and just wanted to play as hard as I can to help the team. And there was a lot of process, learning the offense, learning the defense, the communication we use, and things like that."

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Nikola Vucevic on coming off the bench for the Celtics

The US Women’s National team will bring a strong roster to the 2026 SheBelieves Cup. However, a pair of injuries have led to manager Emma Hayes making changes ahead of the tournament kick off on Sunday. Jordyn Bugg is dealing with a hamstring issue while Kate Wiesner is leaving due to an injured calf.

In their place, fullback Avery Patterson from the Houston Dash and center back Emily Sams representing Angel City have been called in. With the tournament set to start soon, the players will likely add depth for the match Sunday. Patterson has nine appearances to her name and is in the conversation for future callups after breaking into the national team last year. Meanwhile, Sams will be a familiar face after playing in both January friendlies in 2026.

The tournament will be a key chance for players to solidify their place in Hayes’ mind ahead of World Cup qualifying.

Heading into the 2026 offseason, two of the NFL’s best wide receivers from 2025 will be eligible for a contract extension. Those two players are Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

While Njigba was a first-round pick and has a fifth-year option, the Seahawks will almost certainly look to get their star wide receiver locked in as soon as possible. Similarly, the Rams could wait until Nacua’s contract expires at the end of the season. However, waiting could end up costing the Rams with Drake London, Chris Olave, and Zay Flowers also eligible for extensions.

When the Dallas Cowboys were in the process of extending Cee Dee Lamb, they made the mistake of waiting too long and it cost them almost $5 million. At the beginning of the offseason, they may have been able to get Lamb for around $30 million per year. However, Amon-Ra St. Brown and AJ Brown signed for $30 million and $32 million. Shortly after, Justin Jefferson signed for $35 million before Lamb and the Cowboys agreed to a deal for $34 million. Over the course of a four-year contract, the Cowboys cost themselves over $15 million.

As it stands, Puka Nacua’s market value according to Spotrac is $38.5 million per year while JSN’s is $37.7 million. That’s below Ja’Marr Chase’s $40 million per year, but both Nacua and Smith-Njigba will be looking to surpass that number. As Smith-Njigba said earlier this offseason,

“I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it’s going to be a great deal…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.”

Over the past two years, Nacua is second in the NFL in receptions and yards behind only Smith-Njigba. With that said, on a per game basis, Nacua leads by a wide margin. In fact, Nacua’s 95.3 yards per game in his career are the most in NFL history. Nacua is second in NFL history in total receiving yards for a player in their first three years. The Rams wide receiver is also fourth in receptions for a player in their first three seasons in NFL history.

There is a serious argument to be made for Nacua as the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver. He arguably should have won the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023. Despite out-producing Smith-Njigba last season, Nacua was beaten out for the Offensive Player of the Year. However, he has made the Pro Bowl twice and is a first and second-team All-Pro.

The Rams and Seahawks may try to get something done between the $35 million and $40 million gap that separates Jefferson and Chase. Given how both players have produced, it wouldn’t be surprising to see both try to surpass that number. That will especially be the case if the Falcons get something done with Drake London who could bridge that gap.

This really comes down to which player’s contract gets done first between Nacua and JSN. The Rams will have the benefit of time on their side as Smith-Njigba technically has two years left on his rookie contract. Still, the Rams could always franchise tag Nacua which is what the Cowboys have done with George Pickens. The Rams haven’t been a team to utilize the franchise tag, but it is certainly an option. Even with the tag, Smith-Njigba’s camp can wait to see what Nacua and London get and then try and beat that number. Conversely, there will be more pressure on the Rams to get something done this offseason with Nacua to try and save money in the long run.

At the end of the day, Nacua may cost over $40 million per year, but getting his contract done now and before JSN will cost less in the long-run. Nacua and Smith-Njigba competed for recognition as the NFL’s best wide receiver in 2025. It won’t be long before both are competing to be the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver as well.

Next up on our free-agency tour is Buffalo Bills defensive end A.J. Epenesa. In my spirit of not BSing the readers, I’ll cut to the chase up top here. It’s not like you haven’t already clicked into the article anyway. I like Epenesa but we need to approach this from a business stance.

There’s no compelling reason to not let Epenesa test the market. He struggled to break 50% of snaps on Buffalo Bills teams that were known for creating pressure through scheme, not individual effort. Speaking of which, had Sean McDermott remained with the team, that would have increased his value. At least then you could argue “he knows the scheme.” That won’t be the case now.

Since you’re here, let’s watch some film anyway.

The Film

I went with highlights for A.J. Epenesa because the man has always flashed high upside. All of these plays have some fantastic elements. That said, the difference between good and great in a professional league is often just a matter of frequency. I wouldn’t be shocked to see a comment about Epenesa’s rate stats, and that’s a good argument.

Epenesa had two seasons with 6.5 sacks where he also hovered around 40% of snaps on the defense. Assuming Epenesa could handle a doubled workload, putting him in rarefied air for a defensive end, you could argue the extrapolation to a 13-sack season profiles a drastically different player. That would indeed be considered an elite season for a single player. That bring up the question maybe you want to debate in the comments.

Do you believe that Epenesa’s rate would hold up with a drastically higher workload?

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) — England couldn’t guarantee Rehan Ahmed will make another appearance in the Twenty20 World Cup after an inspirational debut on Friday.

Ahmed played a starring role in his first World Cup match as England dented New Zealand hopes of reaching the semifinals after a thrilling comeback win by four wickets in the Super Eights.

Ahmed dismissed Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie to help restrict New Zealand to 159-7, then launched England's fightback with a stunning six off the second ball he faced, in the 18th over.

England was out of the match until Ahmed's six over long-on inspired partner Will Jacks, and they blasted an unbeaten 44 runs in 16 balls for England to win with three balls remaining.

Ahmed was 19 not out off seven balls and Jacks 32 not out off 18, and full of praise for his teammate who was batting for just the ninth time in a T20 for England.

“Rehan played a brilliant innings,” Jacks said. "Everyone who came out on that pitch struggled and it took time to get the pace of it, how slow it was, but that six he hit second ball off Glenn Phillips just upped the ante and put them on the back foot.

“I was then able to just play off him there. The game was laid out there for us with the field and the conditions so we tried to utilise that.”

England had used only 12 men in its six World Cup matches, playing the same XI for five straight games until Friday when Ahmed, a spin bowling allrounder, replaced Jamie Overton, a fast bowler. The change was dictated by a used, slow pitch.

The 21-year-old Ahmed has mainly been an understudy to Adil Rashid while making landmark appearances. He was the youngest man to debut for England in tests in 2022, and the same in ODIs and T20s the next year.

Asked whether Ahmed will stay in the XI for the semifinal next week, likely in Mumbai, captain Harry Brook said, "There's conversations to be had. We said from the start of the competition we're going to select on conditions. We thought today was the perfect opportunity to bring him in and he did an amazing job.

“We've seen what Rehan can do in the nets. He played beautifully and took the game away from them.”

Teammate Tom Banton was also impressed.

“I played with him last year at Trent Rockets. I've seen the journey he's come on,” Banton said. “He's not been playing which hasn't been easy but to make an impact like that ...”

___

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

Leeds United Transfer News: Joe Gelhardt Set for Summer Exit

Leeds United appear ready to draw a line under Joe Gelhardt’s Elland Road chapter. According to a report by TeamTalk, the club are prepared to green light his permanent departure this summer for a fee in the region of £3 million to £5 million.

Gelhardt, currently on loan at Hull City, has scored 11 Championship goals this season. It is a tidy return, the sort that hints at revival rather than regression. Yet Leeds’ stance is described as pragmatic. The 23-year-old “does not have a future with them”, and in a Premier League campaign defined by survival arithmetic, sentiment carries limited weight.

Photo IMAGO

Loan Form and Long Term Direction

Hull’s interest in making the move permanent feels logical. Regular football has restored Gelhardt’s rhythm. At 23, development depends on continuity. Returning to Leeds, where opportunities would likely remain scarce, serves neither party.

Photo IMAGO

There is a quiet inevitability about this. Leeds require clarity in their squad building. Fringe assets must become transfer funds. A nominal fee may not excite supporters, but it represents liquidity at a time when flexibility matters.

Survival Battle Shapes Strategy

Leeds’ immediate priority remains Premier League survival. Recruitment planning cannot drift. Selling peripheral figures to strengthen key positions is not ruthless, it is necessary.

A new striker may be required if the club are to consolidate top flight status. Gelhardt’s 11 goals illustrate capability, but they also highlight context. Championship productivity does not automatically translate upwards.

TeamTalk’s framing underlines realism. Leeds are prepared to sanction departure. Hull must decide whether the valuation aligns with ambition. For Gelhardt, permanence offers clarity.

Transfers often speak of direction as much as talent. Leeds, fighting to stay afloat, appear intent on narrowing their focus.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Gelhardt was once framed as part of the future, a forward with edge and instinct. Seeing him leave for £3 million to £5 million feels underwhelming.

Yet Leeds fans understand context. Survival demands discipline. If he is not trusted to lead the line in the Premier League, then cashing in makes sense. Holding onto players without clear roles benefits nobody.

There will be debate about whether Leeds have maximised value. Eleven Championship goals at 23 suggests growth, not stagnation. Could patience have yielded more? Possibly.

Ultimately, supporters crave stability. If funds from fringe sales strengthen core areas, most will accept the trade off. Progress sometimes requires difficult calls.

Speaking at a campaign event for the FC Barcelona presidency, Joan Laporta shared his thoughts on the team’s chances of winning silverware this season.

The Blaugrana are currently seated at the top of the La Liga table ahead of Real Madrid. They are in the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey, where they are trailing by four goals to Atletico Madrid after the first leg.

Barça have also qualified for the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, where they will take on Newcastle United, with the draw taking place earlier today.

Laporta on Barcelona’s chances

Discussing the draw during his campaign event, former Barcelona president Laporta underlined the difficulty of facing a Premier League opponent.

“We could have been drawn against PSG or Newcastle, and we ended up with Newcastle. English clubs are very tough, and we know they are always competitive in these competitions,” said Laporta, as quoted by SPORT.

After that initial message, the presidential candidate went on to praise Hansi Flick’s team, saying:

“We know it will be difficult, but we now have a very talented team that is beginning to gain the experience needed to tackle this type of knockout stage.”

Laporta has full confidence in the team’s abilities. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Moving on, Laporta expressed confidence regarding Barcelona’s chances of mounting a comeback against Atletico Madrid in the cup semi-final.

“In the last three finals, we outplayed Real Madrid, and now we can come back on Tuesday against Atletico,” the ex-president said.

On the league title race, he added: “We will win La Liga against all odds and against everyone.”

On the complaint against him

Laporta also discussed the complaint filed against him and his entourage by a Barça socio a few days ago before Spain’s National Court.

“It will not work for them to make false accusations, full of lies, to tarnish an exemplary electoral process like ours,” he said.

Laporta reiterated that these accusations are old and suggested that the member Isidro Navarro, who filed the complaint before the National Court, is not acting alone.

“Now we have an individual who is dedicated to muddying the waters, but other people have already been singing the same old tune and telling the same old stories. Not everything goes when it comes to becoming president,” he said.

“This person does not work alone, he has not done it alone. We defend Barça from those who want to control it from 600 kilometres away, as I have said many times before.”

Liverpool Transfer News: Reds in Talks with Bundesliga Duo

Liverpool’s summer plans are already gathering pace, with fresh claims that the club are preparing decisive moves in the market. Credit must go to Indy Kaila for the original update, which has sparked significant discussion among supporters and observers alike.

According to the update, Liverpool are in contact with representatives of two highly rated Bundesliga attackers, signalling clear intent ahead of what promises to be another pivotal window at Anfield.

Talks Underway for Michael Olise

The headline name is Michael Olise, currently lighting up the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. The X post states: “Our high-level source at @LFC has provided us information that the club are in talks with Michael Olise’s representatives and will activate the release clause once personal terms are agreed Liverpool want to sign both Michael Olise & Yan Diomande this summer.”

Those are strong words, and if accurate, they point to a club willing to back ambition with action. Olise has registered ten goals and 16 assists in 22 Bundesliga games this season, an extraordinary return that underlines his influence. Averaging more than one goal contribution per match, the France international has elevated himself into the bracket of elite wide forwards.

For Liverpool, this profile makes obvious sense. With succession planning around Mohamed Salah never far from internal discussions, a dynamic, left footed creator who thrives between the lines feels aligned with the club’s recruitment model. Yet prising him away from Bayern would require substantial financial commitment, and Champions League uncertainty could complicate negotiations.

Yan Diomande Also on Radar

Alongside Olise, Liverpool are credited with interest in Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig. At 19, Diomande represents a different kind of investment, one rooted in projection rather than proven output.

He may not yet command the same spotlight, but Bundesliga watchers speak highly of his explosiveness and intelligence in wide areas. Leipzig have built a reputation for developing elite talent, and Liverpool’s recruitment team will be well aware of the upside.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategically, this dual pursuit is telling. It suggests Liverpool are exploring both established excellence and emerging promise, ensuring flexibility depending on finances and competitive status.

Summer Strategy at Anfield

This is a crucial period for Liverpool. After Arne Slot delivered the Premier League title in his debut campaign, expectations surged. However, the title defence has faltered, with the Reds currently sixth despite a £450m summer outlay. Another window of change appears inevitable.

Whether Liverpool can persuade a player of Olise’s standing to leave Bayern remains uncertain. The Allianz Arena project is stable, competitive and regularly competing deep in Europe. Convincing him would require a compelling sporting vision.

Diomande, by contrast, may be more attainable and arguably more in keeping with Liverpool’s historic approach of identifying stars before they reach their peak valuation.

Much will hinge on qualification for Europe’s elite competition. Financial muscle alone rarely seals such deals, sporting trajectory matters. What is clear is that Liverpool are not standing still.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a supporter’s perspective, this report is exactly the kind of ambition we want to hear about. Michael Olise is box office. Ten goals and 16 assists in 22 games is outrageous output, and he looks like someone who could electrify Anfield every week. After a frustrating title defence, we need players who can shift momentum instantly.

Arne Slot delivered glory in his first season, nobody can take that away. But sitting sixth after spending £450m hurts. The squad feels in transition again, and that makes this summer massive. If the club truly are ready to trigger a release clause once personal terms are agreed, that shows intent.

Yan Diomande excites me as well. Liverpool at their best spot the next superstar before everyone else catches up. If he is the next breakout winger from Leipzig, we should be first in line.

Champions League football would help enormously, yet Anfield still carries weight. Big players want big stages, and few are bigger than a European night under the lights.

If this report proves accurate, it signals a club preparing to respond decisively. Another summer of change is coming, and this time it has to put Liverpool firmly back in the title conversation.

The White Sox have three split-squad game days this spring, including the Prospect Breakout game vs. the Dodgers. And, lucky you, today is the first! There no Munetaka Murakami today for the Sox — or for any time in the near future, as he has departed to join Team Japan in the World Baseball Classic.

Leading off at 2:05 p.m. CT is the Camelback Ranch game, hosting Texas:

Old friend and apparent heir apparent to the No. 5 starter spot, Erik Fedde, gets his first look of the spring. The impressive Sam Antonacci gets another start, in the 6-spot, continuing to get a long early look from the Sox.

The game is on White Sox radio (WMVP-AM 1000) and also on something called CWS Video. I presumed that meant a webcast, but at the moment I’m not certain that’s so. But still THIS is the game with actual White Sox broadcast coverage, in some form.

Over in Phoenix, Sean Burke takes the ball for the second time this spring, hoping to stay perfect through his two or three frames:

Slugging star shortstop Tanner Murray takes the 6-spot in this one, as the two lineups for today are equally strong (or weak, depending on your take). This ballgame is a Cactus League ghost on the White Sox side, with only Gameday and Brewers radio to confirm its existence.

I have spent the past year watching Sunderland Women navigate something that feels significant yet strangely quiet; a process that’s unfolded mostly behind closed doors but has the potential to reshape the future of the club in a way we’ve not seen before.

It’s been a year of conversations, negotiations, pauses, restarts and the kind of cautious optimism that comes when you know something big might be happening but you also know how easily big things can slip away.

As someone who’s followed this team closely and watched the club grow and stumble and grow again, I’ve found myself thinking a lot about what this moment means — not just for the people in the boardroom but for the players, the staff, and the supporters who’ve carried this team through years when the rest of the football world barely noticed it existed.

The story really begins with the recognition that the women’s game has changed. Not “is changing”, but “has changed”.

The pace has been dizzying at times and clubs that once treated their women’s teams as an afterthought are now scrambling to catch up. Investors that wouldn’t have looked twice at women’s football five years ago are now circling with serious intent, and Sunderland, with all its history and potential, has found itself right in the middle of that shift after being approached by multiple parties over the past year, all interested in taking a majority stake in Sunderland Women.

That alone tells you how different the landscape is. A few years ago, the idea of investors competing to buy into the women’s team would’ve sounded like fantasy. Now it’s simply the reality of the sport.

The most prominent of those interested parties has been Sixth Street, a major American investment firm with a growing presence in global sport.

Their women’s sport arm, Bay Collective, has been in talks with Sunderland for months.

They were initially given a period of exclusivity to negotiate a deal and although that exclusivity has now expired, the conversations haven’t ended and that the door is still open — even if it’s longer the only door. Other bidders are back in the picture, and the club is weighing up what the best long‑term option looks like.

Sixth Street aren’t just another investment group looking for a quick win. They’re the people behind Bay FC in the National Women’s Soccer League, a club they launched in 2023 after paying a record expansion fee.

They’ve poured money, expertise and ambition into that project, and they’ve made it clear that they see women’s football as a serious growth market. Bay Collective is led by Kay Cossington, who spent years shaping the England women’s pathway at the Football Association, and her move to the United States was a statement in itself.

She’s someone who understands the women’s game deeply, who knows what it takes to build something sustainable and has the credibility to attract players, staffband partners.

When someone like that takes an interest in Sunderland Women, it’s not something you brush off lightly. It tells you that the club has something worth building on and that the potential people here have always talked about is not just a romantic idea but something that people outside the North East can see too.

But it also raises questions.

What does it mean for Sunderland to sell a majority stake in the women’s team, and what does it mean for the identity of the club? What does it mean for the connection between the women’s team and the wider Sunderland community? These aren’t small questions — they’re questions the club can’t afford to get wrong.

The Athletic published a detailed piece recently outlining the talks between Sunderland and Sixth Street, and whilst it didn’t reveal every detail, it confirmed what many of us already knew.

The interest is real. The conversations have been serious and the club isn’t rushing into anything — which is importantly. Sunderland have been through enough in the past decade to know that quick fixes rarely fix anything. They’ve taken their time, spoken to multiple parties and tried to understand what each potential investor would bring. It’s not been a case of taking the first offer that comes along — it’snbeen a case of trying to find the right fit.

This is where the story becomes more complicated, because Sunderland’s history in the women’s game isn’t straightforward.

The Lasses have produced some of the best players England has ever seen, from Steph Houghton to Lucy Bronze to Jill Scott. It’s a club that dominated the domestic game long before the WSL existed but has also been let down by structural decisions, underinvestment and the kind of short‑sightedness that’s held back so many women’s teams across the country.

The decision not to apply for a WSL licence in 2018 still hangs over the club. It was a moment that changed the trajectory of the team, and it’s impossible to talk about the present without acknowledging that past.

When Kyril Louis‑Dreyfus arrived, things began to change. Investment in the women’s team increased dramatically and the club went from spending £83,000 on the women’s side in 2020/2021 to more than £1 million by 2023‑24.

That was the kind of increase that tells you the club finally understood that the women’s team needed proper support, yet even that level of investment has its limits as competing with the top teams in the country requires resources that go beyond what Sunderland can provide internally.

That isn’t a criticism. It’s simply the reality of modern women’s football. The clubs at the top are spending millions, building training facilities, hiring specialist staff and investing in youth development. If Sunderland want to return to the top tier and stay there, they need partners who can match that ambition and that’s why the talks with Sixth Street matter — as does the interest from other investors.

This is not about selling off the women’s team for the sake of it. Instead, it’s about finding a way to give the team the resources it needs to grow and recognizing that the women’s game is moving quickly and that Sunderland can’t afford to be left behind again.

I’ve spoken to people who worry about what external ownership might mean.

They worry about losing control, losing identity and about becoming a satellite project for a bigger organisation. Those worries are valid as we’ve seen enough in football to know that not every investor has the best interests of the club at heart.

However, I’ve also spoken to people who see this as an opportunity and who believe that the right investor could transform the women’s team in a way that would’ve been unthinkable a few years ago. I find myself somewhere in the middle — hopeful but cautious, excited but grounded.

What gives me confidence is the way the club has approached this situation,with no rush, no panic and no sense that Sunderland are desperate to sell.

Instead, there’s been a quiet determination to get this right. The club wants to retain a minority stake in the women’s team, ensuring that the team remains connected to the wider club. There are no plans to create a new legal entity or to separate the women’s team entirely, meaning the identity of Sunderland Women will remain intact. That matters, as it ensures that any new investor will be joining something, not replacing it.

The expiry of the exclusivity period with Sixth Street has created a new phase in the process. It means the club can speak to other bidders again. It means there is competition — and competition is good. It gives the club options, leverage and ensures that Sunderland aren’t backed into a corner.

I keep coming back to the idea of potential — and Sunderland Women have so much of it.

The fanbase is there, as is the history and identity and ambition. What’s often been missing is the level of investment needed to unlock all of that, and that’s what this moment is about: unlocking potential and giving the players, the staff and the supporters the chance to see what this club can be when it’s backed properly.

I also think about the players who have come through this club, the ones who went on to become England internationals, Champions League winners and European champions. I reflect on what Sunderland could’ve been if the investment had been there earlier — and then I think about what Sunderland could still become if the investment arrives now. That is where the hope comes from. Not from nostalgia, but from possibility.

The women’s game is growing faster than anyone expected and Sunderland have a chance to be part of that growth in a meaningful way. They have a chance to build something that reflects the history of the club but also looks forward. They have a chance to create a team that can compete at the highest level, not just survive there.

I know there will be bumps and moments of uncertainty along the way, but I also know that this club has been through far worse and come out on the other side.

The resilience of Sunderland Women is one of the things that’s always drawn me to them. They’ve survived decisions that would’ve broken other clubs, rebuilt themselves more than once and kept going when the rest of the football world barely noticed.

Now the world is noticing. Investors are noticing. People with serious money and serious ambition are noticing. That’s is not something to be afraid of — it’s something to embrace, carefully but confidently.

I don’t know which investor the club will choose, whether it’ll be Sixth Street or someone else. But I do know that the club is approaching this with the seriousness it deserves. I know that the people involved care deeply about getting this right. And I know that the future of Sunderland Women, for the first time in a long time, feels full of possibility.

There’s something hopeful about that. Something exciting and something that makes me think that the next chapter of this club could be one of the most important yet. And as someone who’s watched this team through the highs and the lows, through the growth and the setbacks, I can’t help but feel that hope.

Because Sunderland Women deserve this moment. They deserve investment, they deserve ambition and they deserve a future that matches their history. For the first time in a long time, that future feels within reach.

The Dodgers look to make it a 7-0 start this spring, as they are on the road to take on the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium. Yoshinobu Yamamoto makes his final spring start against left-hander Robbie Ray.

FRIDAY GAME INFO

• Teams: Dodgers vs. Giants
• Ballpark: Scottsdale Stadium
• Time: 12:05 p.m. PT
• TV: SportsNet LA
• Radio:

Key Patriots Free Agent Praises 'Standup Guy' Mike Vrabel originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

If Jaylinn Hawkins leaves the New England Patriots this offseason, it seemingly won't be to get away from Mike Vrabel.

Hawkins is set to enter free agency once the new NFL year begins on March 11. The safety bolstered his market value by registering four interceptions and a forced fumble on last season's one-year deal.

As he prepares to test the open market, Hawkins commended Vrabel during a Friday appearance on NFL Network's "Good Morning Football."

"Just from the energy standpoint, from who he is, he's a standup guy," Hawkins said of Vrabel. "He keeps it real with you, but then he's also like, 'Let's go out there and have some fun. Let's ball.'"

Hawkins endorsed Vrabel's passion when explaining why he liked playing for the head coach last season.

"He believes in us, man. So it's cool," Hawkins added. "He really cares about us. That's the biggest thing. Being out there in practice, he's participating in drills. He's out there with the bags, trying to run us over. Then he's also loud, and he'll get on you. It's nothing but respect and love for him."

Patriots fans must wait to see if Hawkins keeps playing for Vrabel in 2026. The 28-year-old is among the team's most significant free agents, but executive vice president Eliot Wolf indicated earlier this week, per Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, that they're not planning to ensure he stays by extending the franchise tag.

“He’s earned the opportunity to see what’s out there," Wolf said on Tuesday. "But he’s certainly someone that we would welcome back."

More NFL: Patriots Urged To Apply Franchise Tag To Veteran Pro Bowl Defender

Dodgers get bad news on Blake Snell for Opening Day chances originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have one of the best starting rotations in Major League Baseball. Shohei Ohtani looks to be a full-go this year, while Yoshinobu Yamamoto will lead this top-tier rotation.

But, it's not all good for the Dodgers entering the 2026 MLB season. One of their top starters, lefty Blake Snell, is still dealing with an injury.

According to Jack Harris of The California Post, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed an update on Snell's recovery, and it's not a good look for the $136 million Cy Young ace.

Dodgers get bad news on Blake Snell for Opening Day

"Dave Roberts said Blake Snell has been making progress in his throwing progression (which, for now, has still been limited to flat-ground sessions)," Harris reports. "But he acknowledged that, given the calendar, it's gonna be 'hard' for him to be ready for Opening Day."

Snell, the 33-year-old veteran left-hander coming off a 2.35 ERA season in 2025 across only 11 starts, is going to miss the beginning of the season for the Dodgers.

While the rotation in Los Angeles is full of incredible pitchers, the injury issues have made their rotation shaky at times.

Snell's issue, a shoulder problem that's been lingering for a while, isn't going away just yet. He's going to miss some more time in 2026.

More: Giants get great news on top prospect Carson Whisenhunt with huge velocity increase

When Snell is on the mound, he's one of the top pitchers in baseball. He has a career ERA of 3.15. His lone season with the Dodgers wasn't a long one, but he still managed to play a big role, pitching 34 innings in the World Series run with a 3.18 ERA.

But, considering the massive $136.9 million contract he signed with the Dodgers, he needs to pitch more than 11 games in 2026 to make it worth the Dodgers.

Roberts update is a tough one for the Dodgers, as Snell is going to miss some time to begin the year. The All-Star lefty is a big piece of the rotation, and getting him back as soon as possible would be huge for the defending World Series champions.

More MLB news:

• MLB Hot Stove tracker: Live updates on news, rumors, signings and trades for 2025 free agency
• Yankees' Jazz Chisholm reveals his 9-figure contract asking price
• Twins get devastating injury news on Pablo Lopez
• Cubs' Alex Bregman makes assertive no-trade clause Red Sox statement
• German Marquez takes shot at Rockies after signing with team that 'wants to win'
• Mets fans should be concerned with Bo Bichette after fielding struggles go viral
• Phillies' Jhoan Duran teases new pitch, but won't reveal what it is

So there’s a working group coming to tackle the “issues” in college sports, and you can tell how serious this is just by looking who is and isn’t invited.

Invited: All four power conference commissioners plus the commissioners of the American and Mountain West, Nick Saban, Urban Meyer, Mack Brown, Tiger Woods, Tim Tebow, Charlie Ward, Adam Silver, the people running ESPN and Fox Sports, some athletic directors and university presidents, that Cody Campbell guy, and Ron DeSantis for some fucking reason

Not invited: The President of the NCAA, any currently active college athletes or coaches

In other words, the NCAA’s issues are going to be fixed by inviting a bunch of people involved in the money side of college sports and absolutely no one involved in the actual competition side at present. I’m sure Nick Saban has thoughts on why he’s no longer a college football coach, though the reason mostly seems to be that he’s old and tired of this bullshit. There are also reasons why Urban Meyer is no longer a college football coach, though those aren’t directly relevant to anything that they’d be discussing, to say the least. I don’t know what athletes who competed in college in the 1990s and 2000s have to contribute to anything about the current state of college sports.

If you ask the people constructing 18-team conferences that run from coast to coast what the problems with college sports are, you’re probably going to get very different answers than if you asked the athletes and coaches flying across the country for a conference game, is the point, and to include one group and not the other is going to give you skewed answers on the fix. Like everything else in life, if you start from the premise that we can’t have the 1990s back… oh, is that why we invited Charlie Ward to this?

But never mind that. The most notable thing the NCAA has done this year is approve commercial sponsor patches, because fuck it, we’re going to monetize everything we can. Oh, yeah, and the Big 12 came up with a fucking LED court for its conference tournament, which the same crew of dipshits that spend most of my time convincing me that AI will do my job for me (spoiler: I will continue to not use AI to write articles for Anchor of Gold) took time out of doing that to tell me is “sick” and “the future.”

These same people are excited about sponsor patches, for reasons that I cannot begin to understand. (But you have to admit the new logo is growing on you, don’t you, Tom? NO I DON’T.)

But I do not understand how you have a “working group” to address issues in college sports THAT DOES NOT INCLUDE THE PRESIDENT OF THE NCAA. Unless, of course, getting rid of the NCAA is the goal.

In which case: this is yet another reminder that if you don’t like the NCAA, you’re really not going to like what comes after the NCAA. That’s especially true if you care about the athletes, who are decidedly going to be worse off under the post-NCAA private equity nonsense unless you’re the kind of person who genuinely believes that making the athletes get an actual education (even if it’s just an HOD degree) is actually bad for them.

I've seen a lot of controversy surrounding Team USA at the Winter Olympics in Italy.

I don't understand it, and I think as Americans, we should reject it.

I don't know about you, but I'm inspired by Team USA's extraordinary Olympic athletes. As a mom of two boys, I'm proud of our men's hockey team − they're fantastic athletes and role models. As a mom of girls, I'm proud of the women's hockey team − they're inspiring and show my girls they can do anything. As a woman who's given birth four times and feels nostalgic about my days as an athlete, I'm blown away by the strength of the Olympic moms − of whom there are nine.

I think we can learn a lot from these Olympians about how to handle our own wins, losses, setbacks and successes in life, not just in sports.

US hockey controversy is nonsense. Do we need to be offended about everything?

The U.S. men's hockey team won gold against Canada, longtime foes, in a riveting 2-1 win on Feb. 22. It was the first time they'd won gold since besting the Soviet Union in 1980. It was historic. Victorious, the team's buoyant joy flooded their locker room, where they took a call from President Donald Trump.

Trump congratulated the team and invited them to Washington, DC, then joked he'd have to invite the women's team or else: "I probably would be impeached."

High on adrenaline, the teammates laughed and went on about their much-deserved celebration.

On Feb. 24, the president announced most of the men's hockey team at his State of the Union address.

Tell us: What did you think of Trump's State of the Union? | Opinion Forum

The women's team, Trump said, would be coming to the White House later, although that's not certain yet. Controversy ensued: Did the women's team snub the president because of his comment? Why did the men's team laugh at Trump's sexist joke?

Everyone needs to calm down. First, U.S. women's hockey star Kelly Pannek has reiterated that her team missed the State of the Union over logistical challenges, not Trump's joke. Second, Trump's joke was unnecessary, but as a woman, I didn't find it offensive. Do we need to be offended about everything? I think not. Third, when the men's team came down from their incredible high, some actually felt bad for laughing.

Reporters asked goalie Jeremy Swayman about it, and he said he and his teammates "should've reacted differently." Swayman then gushed about the women's team. "We know that we're so excited for the women's team. We have so much respect for the women's team, and to share that gold medal with them is something that we're forever grateful for."

I'm glad for the men's hockey team. They seem like good role models. I hope my sons strive for greatness, celebrate when they succeed, and have the courage to admit when they wish they'd acted differently in hindsight.

Women had historic success at Olympics. There's enough Olympic inspiration to go around.

In that manufactured controversy, I still see hope and inspiration.

While I'm applauding the guys, it's important to note that women had historic success at the games. I love this. As a mom of daughters who have been or are athletes, I find this inspiring. Among those were figure skater Alysa Liu, who won America’s first Olympic gold in women's single figure skating in 24 years. Mikaela Shiffrin and Breezy Johnson won gold in alpine skiing, bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor was a legend, Elizabeth Lemley dominated in freestyle moguls and, of course, the U.S. women's hockey team. This should be a much larger story. It's a story I'll tell my daughters.

Applause for our Olympic women doesn't detract from the success of our Olympic men and vice versa. There's room in the world for all of us to reach for our dreams, attain our goals and be successful. These Olympics showed that even well-meaning gestures can turn political and even politics can taint even the most extraordinary moments − but we don't need to let that be the case in sports or in life. There are far greater lessons here.

Most of us will never be Olympic athletes. It's a privilege for a select few. But there are lessons in all athletic endeavors that go far beyond the ice skating rink or the ski slopes:

• It's better to lose with grace than win with hubris.
• Victory is sometimes decades in the making. Savor it when it comes.
• Sometimes life's difficulties knock your teeth out, and you're going to bleed. Expect it, get up and keep going.

You might finally achieve the dream of a lifetime, only for someone to make a joke out of it. That doesn't make the win any less valuable. In fact, it might make it that much sweeter and doesn't mute the inspiration of the games.

Nicole Russell is an opinion columnist with USA TODAY. She lives in Texas with her four kids. This column originally appeared on USATODAY.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Both US hockey teams give my kids role models to look up to | Opinion

Americans are still celebrating the wave of success from the 2026 Winter Olympics and one Team USA hockey star is continuing that party with several late-night show appearances.

Both the men’s and women’s hockey teams celebrated their gold medals thoroughly recently in Milan Cortina. However, Team USA hockey is still garnering immense recognition with trips to the White House and regular television appearances.

Meanwhile, a New York Times report also suggests that NHL star Quinn Hughes is set to appear on several NBC late-night shows soon. Hughes will be on ‘SNL’ Feb. 28 and ‘The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon’ to follow, while his brother Jack Hughes may also be present.

Women’s hockey star Hillary Knight reportedly will also be present for the show after helping guide America to their own glory over Canada in the women’s hockey gold medal game.

MORE: Olympic star Jack Hughes earns cool advertisement after bloody mouth interview

Quinn Hughes to appear on ‘SNL’ and ‘The Tonight Show,’ brother Jack may join him on both

By @JoeSmithNHL and me

https://t.co/S5gVtaXLjR via @NYTimes

— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) February 27, 2026

The Hughes brothers have become instant stars after guiding America to their first gold medal in 46 years. The last Olympic men’s gold medal came back at the 1980 Lake Placid Games.

Jack Hughes scored the game-winning goal to seal the overtime gold medal win over Canada. His recent stardom has shot up since returning to NHL play with the New Jersey Devils.

Meanwhile, Team USA hockey has been on a wave of public showings after their Italian glory. U.S. president Donald Trump sent Air Force One to Miami to pick up the men’s hockey team after their legendary party at nightclub E11even.

MORE: USA men’s hockey team parties on Air Force One after Olympic gold medal

The American team was present for the State of the Union address, where Trump welcomed the men’s squad back from their Olympic triumph. Trump even announced Connor Hellebuyck will be receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Hellebuyck joins an exclusive list of American athletes that have earned the prestigious honor. That includes Tiger Woods, Muhammed Ali and Jackie Robinson.

Trump has named several quality athletes to the list over the years like Babe Ruth, Mariano Rivera and Annika Sorenstam.

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The post Team USA hockey stars set for ‘SNL’ cameo after Winter Olympics appeared first on The Big Lead.

Get ready to step into a world of Brazilian music, dance, and culture at the Brazilian Carnaval 2026 in Vancouver, Canada! On Saturday, 7 March 2026, the Croatian Cultural Centre will be transformed into an explosive celebration of everything that makes Brazilian Carnaval so special. From samba rhythms to delicious Brazilian food and high-energy performances, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Whether you are a fan of Brazilian culture or just looking for a fun, lively celebration, this event offers something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes Brazilian Carnaval Vancouver such a standout festival and why you can’t afford to miss it in 2026.

What is Brazilian Carnaval in Vancouver?

Brazilian Carnaval is one of the most famous festivals in the world, known for its colourful costumes, exuberant music, and high-energy dancing. Every year, people from all over the globe come together to celebrate the spirit of Brazil. In Vancouver, the Brazilian community celebrates this rich cultural tradition with an event that brings all the joy and excitement of a traditional Rio de Janeiro Carnaval to the heart of the city.

The Brazilian Carnaval 2026 will be held at the Croatian Cultural Centre on Saturday, 7 March, from 12 PM to 10 PM. The festival is a full-day celebration of Brazilian music, dance, food, and cultural performances that brings Brazilian vibes to Vancouver. Hosted by the Latincouver Cultural and Business Society and the Brazilian Community Association of BC, this event promises to showcase the very best of Brazil’s lively and colourful culture.

Where is the Event Taking Place?

The event will be held at the Croatian Cultural Centre, located at 3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC V5N 4E4. The venue is the perfect place for this festival, with enough space to accommodate both intimate performances and large crowd gatherings. The Croatian Cultural Centre has hosted a variety of cultural events, and it’s the ideal location to bring the energy and vibrancy of Brazil’s Carnaval to Vancouver.

What You Can Expect at Brazilian Carnaval Vancouver 2026

Music That Will Make You Dance

One of the most exciting parts of Brazilian Carnaval is the music. The festival will feature a variety of Brazilian rhythms, from samba to axé and batucada. Expect live samba bands, DJ performances, and lots of dancing. The music is sure to get everyone moving, with its infectious energy and rhythmic beats. Whether you’re a seasoned samba dancer or someone new to Brazilian music, you’ll feel the urge to get up and join the fun.

In the daytime, the music will be a little more laid back, giving families and kids a chance to enjoy the carnival atmosphere. But as the evening progresses, the energy will intensify, with more live performances and DJs spinning the best of Brazilian music.

Samba, Axé, and Batucada Dance

Of course, no Brazilian Carnaval would be complete without dance, and this event will have plenty of it. Throughout the day, you’ll see dazzling samba dancers showcasing their moves in colourful costumes. If you’re a fan of Brazilian dance, you can also enjoy axé, a popular rhythm that comes from Bahia, known for its energetic and fun dance steps. There will also be batucada, a style of percussion-heavy samba that’s all about rhythm and beat.

The festival will feature dance showcases, giving professional and community dancers a chance to show off their skills. If you’re lucky, you might even get the chance to take part in a dance workshop and learn some moves yourself. Whether you’re a dancer or someone who loves to watch the rhythm unfold, you won’t be able to resist the infectious beat of Brazilian dance.

Authentic Brazilian Food

What’s a festival without food? Brazilian Carnaval 2026 will feature authentic Brazilian food vendors that will transport your taste buds straight to Brazil. You can indulge in classic dishes like feijoada (a black bean stew with pork), coxinha (fried chicken snacks), and pão de queijo (cheese bread). For those with a sweet tooth, you can try brigadeiro, a chocolate treat that’s loved by Brazilians all over the world. There will also be plenty of Brazilian drinks, including the famous caipirinha, a cocktail made with cachaça and lime.

The food at this festival is more than just a meal — it’s a true cultural experience. Every bite will give you a taste of Brazilian culture and make you feel like you’re at the heart of Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval.

Capoeira: Brazilian Martial Art and Dance

Another exciting feature of the event will be capoeira, an Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines dance, acrobatics, and music. Capoeira originated in Brazil and has a long history of blending movement and rhythm. At Brazilian Carnaval, you’ll have the chance to witness capoeira performances and even participate in an interactive workshop if you’re feeling adventurous. This is a unique aspect of the festival that you won’t want to miss.

Family-Friendly Fun

Brazilian Carnaval 2026 is not just for adults — it’s also a family-friendly event. During the afternoon, there will be kid-friendly activities, including face painting, crafts, and cultural demonstrations. Children can enjoy the colourful costumes, lively music, and food while parents enjoy the festival’s performances and activities. This is the perfect event for families looking to experience the vibrant culture of Brazil while having a fun day out.

The Ultimate Party Atmosphere

As the sun sets, the festival will shift into a high-energy party atmosphere. The night will be filled with music from top Brazilian DJs, dancing, and a lively crowd. The combination of samba rhythms, electric atmosphere, and Brazilian culture will make this party unforgettable. The entire venue will be transformed into a dance floor, where people from all walks of life can come together and celebrate. It’s the kind of event that will leave you buzzing long after it’s over.

Tickets and Entry Information

Tickets for Brazilian Carnaval Vancouver 2026 are available online via Eventbrite. The event typically offers a variety of ticket options, including general admission and VIP tickets for those looking for an enhanced experience with special perks like reserved seating or access to exclusive areas. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as this event is known to sell out quickly due to its popularity.

Ticket prices generally range from $20 to $50, depending on the type of entry you choose. If you’re planning to attend, don’t wait — grab your tickets early and make sure you’re part of the action!

Why You Should Attend Brazilian Carnaval Vancouver 2026

Brazilian Carnaval 2026 in Vancouver is a celebration like no other. It’s not just a festival — it’s an explosion of culture, rhythm, and community. Whether you’re into Brazilian music, dance, or simply looking for a fun way to spend a Saturday, this event has something for everyone.

By attending, you’ll not only enjoy live performances, delicious food, and interactive cultural experiences, but you’ll also be part of something much bigger — a celebration of Brazil’s rich cultural heritage and its deep influence on global music, dance, and festivals.

If you want to experience the best of Brazil right in the heart of Vancouver, mark your calendars and get ready for Brazilian Carnaval 2026!

The arrival of Azamara Journeys at Sevilla Cruise Port signals the official launch of the 2026 cruise season, positioning Sevilla as a prime hub for tourism growth in Andalusia. This inland port on the Guadalquivir River offers unique urban access, directly impacting tourism by drawing affluent international visitors to the city’s historic core. The event underscores Sevilla’s rising appeal in global cruise itineraries, promising economic uplift through extended stays and cultural immersion.

Season Kickoff Boosts Sevilla Tourism

Azamara Journeys docked on February 26, 2026, inaugurating a full year of cruise operations at Sevilla Cruise Port. The port anticipates twelve calls from this vessel alone, significantly elevating tourism footfall in Sevilla. This influx will stimulate local businesses, from heritage sites to hospitality sectors, as passengers explore the city’s UNESCO-listed landmarks right from the dock.

The Sevilla Cruise Port stands out as Spain’s sole inland cruise facility, enabling ships to berth in the urban heart. Such proximity transforms tourism dynamics, allowing immediate access to attractions like the Alcázar Palace and Cathedral without transfers. This convenience heightens Sevilla’s competitiveness, fostering longer visitor dwell times and higher spending, which directly bolsters the regional tourism economy.

New Management Drives Sustainable Tourism

Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas now oversee Sevilla Cruise Port operations under a twenty-five-year agreement. This partnership introduces top-tier standards, emphasizing sustainable practices that align with Sevilla’s tourism vision. Enhanced services will attract premium lines, ensuring steady growth in high-value tourism segments.

Investments exceeding five million euros target infrastructure upgrades, including terminal modernization and a new facility in the Distrito Urbano Portuario. These developments will streamline operations, reducing environmental impact while elevating passenger satisfaction. Consequently, Sevilla tourism benefits from a greener model, appealing to eco-conscious travelers and securing long-term industry positioning.

Guadalquivir Access Enhances Destination Appeal

Navigating the Guadalquivir River to reach Sevilla Cruise Port creates a distinctive entry experience for cruise passengers. This scenic approach immerses visitors in Andalusia’s landscapes, setting the stage for authentic tourism encounters. The port’s central location amplifies tourism impacts, as guests disembark steps from vibrant plazas and tapas scenes.

Seasonal programming, running through December 29, 2026, features diverse vessels, culminating with Vidanta World’s Elegant in April. Such variety caters to niche markets, from cultural enthusiasts to luxury seekers, diversifying Sevilla tourism revenue streams. The river’s role ensures Sevilla remains a standout Mediterranean destination, outpacing coastal rivals in experiential tourism.

Economic Ripple Effects on Local Tourism

The 2026 schedule at Sevilla Cruise Port projects substantial tourism gains, with each call injecting funds into hospitality and retail. Operators anticipate optimized passenger flows, maximizing shore time for deeper city engagement. This strategy will elevate Sevilla’s profile in international tourism circuits, particularly among North American markets.

Local authorities view the port as a catalyst for exclusive tourism, blending heritage with modern amenities. Personalized services for mega-yachts and cruises will draw elite clientele, fostering year-round vibrancy. Overall, these initiatives promise a multiplier effect, where increased tourism sustains jobs and cultural preservation efforts in Sevilla.

Infrastructure Upgrades Fuel Tourism Growth

Modernization efforts at Sevilla Cruise Port include updating the existing terminal and building anew post-relocation. These enhancements prioritize efficiency, ensuring seamless handling of growing traffic. For Sevilla tourism, this translates to reliable operations that support expanded itineraries and repeat visits.

The alliance between Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas focuses on bespoke experiences, from shore excursions to premium berthing. Such tailoring elevates passenger perceptions, encouraging positive word-of-mouth in global tourism networks. Sevilla’s port thus evolves into a benchmark for integrated urban tourism.

Cultural Immersion Powers Tourism Surge

Sevilla Cruise Port arrivals coincide with peak cultural seasons, like Holy Week processions, amplifying tourism allure. Passengers gain front-row access to flamenco, festivals, and architecture, embedding Sevilla in immersive narratives. This synergy positions the city as a must-visit for experiential tourism.

Extended port stays allow deeper dives into Andalusian traditions, boosting ancillary spending on guided tours and cuisine. The port’s management commits to cultural tie-ins, enriching itineraries without overwhelming sites. Resultantly, Sevilla tourism achieves balance, preserving authenticity amid rising volumes.

Future Outlook for Sevilla Tourism

Looking ahead, Sevilla Cruise Port eyes expansion in mega-yacht services, targeting luxury tourism. Planned investments secure scalability, adapting to demand spikes. This forward-thinking approach will cement Sevilla’s role in Europe’s cruise map, driving sustained tourism prosperity.

The season’s diversity, from boutique ships like Azamara Journeys to larger entrants, broadens appeal. Operators project compounded growth, with each call reinforcing Sevilla’s high-end tourism stature. By 2027, these foundations promise even greater impacts, solidifying economic resilience through maritime tourism.

Tourism Impact Quantified

This table highlights how Sevilla Cruise Port initiatives propel tourism metrics, ensuring measurable gains.

In summary, Azamara Journeys’ arrival heralds a transformative era for Sevilla tourism, blending innovation with heritage for viral appeal.

Image Credit: Azamara

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially announced that Tomorrowland Thailand will make its first full-scale Asian debut in Pattaya, Chon Buri Province, from 11-13 December 2026. This legendary Belgian electronic dance music festival will be bringing its legendary production to Thailand, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards becoming a World Class Event Hub Destination. With 50,000 visitors per day expected to attend this event, Tomorrowland Thailand is going to play a crucial role in strengthening international confidence in Thailand as a premier host of international events.

Transforming Pattaya into a Global Tourism Destination

Pattaya, traditionally known for its beaches and tourism-driven economy, is set to experience a major tourism transformation with the arrival of Tomorrowland Thailand. The festival will serve as a key driver in Pattaya’s tourism growth, attracting not only international music lovers but also high-value tourists looking to experience one of the world’s premier music events. By positioning Pattaya as a destination for large-scale cultural and entertainment events, Tomorrowland will stimulate local hospitality, transport, service industries, and retail sectors, which will see increased demand in the lead-up to and during the festival.

A Global Event with Regional Tourism Benefits

The Tomorrowland Thailand festival also plays a significant role in enhancing Thailand’s appeal in the global tourism market. As a world-class event with an established international fan base, Tomorrowland will likely draw a diverse audience from across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, boosting not only visitor numbers but also encouraging longer stays and higher tourism spending.

Beyond the event itself, this collaboration will increase global awareness of Thailand as a premier destination for high-profile international events, positioning the country as a top player in the global event tourism market. As part of its wider tourism strategy, Thailand’s ability to host iconic events like Tomorrowland further strengthens the country’s reputation as an attractive destination for both business tourism and leisure travelers.

Sustainable Tourism Impact and Long-Term Economic Growth

Tomorrowland Thailand is designed with sustainability in mind, reinforcing Thailand’s efforts to host eco-conscious tourism and ensuring that the festival contributes positively to the local environment and community. TAT‘s strategic focus on sustainable tourism aligns perfectly with Tomorrowland’s commitment to environmental responsibility, ensuring that the influx of visitors has a long-lasting positive impact on the region. By using the festival as a platform to promote sustainable tourism practices, Thailand is positioning itself as a leader in responsible event tourism.

Strengthening Thailand’s Tourism Infrastructure and Industry

As Tomorrowland Thailand draws international tourists, it will provide additional opportunities for the tourism industry to develop and improve its infrastructure, including hotels, transport networks, and tourist services. The festival will drive demand for high-end accommodations, transportation services, and food and beverage offerings, generating new business and employment opportunities. The long-term benefits of hosting such large-scale events include strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Thailand’s tourism infrastructure, ensuring it can accommodate growing numbers of visitors for years to come.

A Cultural and Tourism Milestone for Thailand’s Hospitality Industry

The success of Tomorrowland Thailand will not only drive tourism growth but will also set the stage for future tourism events. By securing iconic events like Tomorrowland, Thailand reinforces its role as a destination for cultural exchanges, global celebrations, and destination festivals, which directly contribute to the growth of hospitality and tourism-related services.

As Thailand continues to enhance its tourism offerings, including luxury resorts, international festivals, and cultural tourism, the collaboration with Tomorrowland will ensure the country remains at the forefront of event tourism in Southeast Asia.

Tomorrowland Thailand as a Catalyst for Sustained Tourism Growth

The Tomorrowland Thailand festival to be held in 2026 is a transformative period for Thailand’s tourism industry, which will result in tourism growth and economic development for Thailand. With its emphasis on cultural engagement, luxury, and international exposure, Tomorrowland Thailand is set to elevate Pattaya and Thailand as a world-class tourism destination for international travelers.

This prestigious festival is going to further enhance Thailand’s position as a world-class tourism destination for international festivals, resulting in sustained growth for Thailand’s tourism industry. With its emphasis on international collaboration and delivering an unforgettable experience, Tomorrowland Thailand is setting a path for Thailand’s tourism growth, which is going to have a lasting impact on Thailand’s tourism industry and economy.

Image Source: TAT

Flight operations at Kuujjuarapik Airport (YGW), Canada were disrupted today, with 4 cancellations and 2 delays recorded. The airlines most affected were Air Inuit (4 cancellations) and Air Creebec (2 delays). The airports most impacted by the disruption include Kuujjuarapik, La Grande Riviere, Sanikiluaq, and Chisasibi. Several scheduled services linking these northern communities were cancelled outright, while others faced delays, affecting regional connectivity across Quebec and neighboring areas.

• Updated today: Kuujjuarapik recorded 4 cancellations and 2 delays, disrupting six scheduled flights.
• All four cancellations were operated by Air Inuit.
• Air Creebec accounted for both delayed flights.
• Kuujjuarapik was central to most disruptions, both inbound and outbound.
• La Grande Riviere and Sanikiluaq each saw cancelled services linked to Kuujjuarapik.
• Chisasibi recorded a delayed service connected to Kuujjuarapik.

Airlines Affected

Air Inuit

Air Inuit cancelled four flights linked to Kuujjuarapik, representing all cancellations recorded at the airport today. The cancelled services affected connections between Kuujjuarapik and La Grande Riviere, Sanikiluaq, and other scheduled movements involving Kuujjuarapik.

Air Creebec

Air Creebec recorded two delayed flights at Kuujjuarapik today. No cancellations were attributed to the airline, but passengers experienced schedule disruptions on services operating between Kuujjuarapik and nearby communities, including Chisasibi.

What can affected passengers do?

• Review the airline’s passenger rights and compensation policies.
  Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the airline’s published policies regarding delays, cancellations, refunds, and compensation. Understanding the terms and conditions applicable to the ticket purchased can clarify available options, including refund requests, travel credits, or alternative transport arrangements. This awareness allows passengers to make informed decisions during disruptions.
• Check the airline’s official website or mobile app for real-time flight status updates.
  Passengers should regularly monitor the airline’s official digital platforms for the latest operational information. Flight statuses can change multiple times within a short window, especially during active disruptions. Refreshing the status page, checking departure and arrival boards, and reviewing push notifications through the airline’s mobile application can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding revised departure times, gate changes, or cancellations.
• Contact the airline directly regarding rebooking options.
  Travelers whose flights have been cancelled or significantly delayed should reach out to the airline as soon as possible to explore alternative arrangements. This may include rebooking on the next available service, adjusting travel dates, or requesting placement on a different routing if available. Contact channels typically include airport service counters, customer service hotlines, and online chat systems. Acting promptly can improve the chances of securing a suitable alternative.
• Confirm eligibility for meal vouchers or accommodation if required.
  In cases of extended delays or overnight cancellations, passengers may qualify for assistance such as meal vouchers or hotel accommodation, depending on airline policies and the nature of the disruption. It is advisable to ask airline representatives directly about available support, as eligibility criteria may vary. Keeping receipts for essential expenses may also be useful if reimbursement policies apply.
• Monitor email and SMS notifications from the airline.
  Airlines often send automated notifications regarding schedule changes, gate updates, or rebooking confirmations. Passengers should ensure their contact details are correctly listed in the reservation and remain attentive to incoming messages. These alerts can contain critical instructions, including updated boarding times or revised check-in procedures.
• Keep travel documents and booking references readily available.
  Having boarding passes, booking confirmation numbers, and identification documents accessible can expedite assistance at service desks or when speaking with customer support. Quick access to reservation details helps airline representatives locate bookings efficiently and reduces processing time during busy disruption periods.

Overview of Flight Disruptions

Flight disruptions centered on Kuujjuarapik Airport (YGW), which recorded four cancellations and two delays today. Air Inuit accounted for every cancelled service, while Air Creebec handled the two delayed flights.

Routes connecting Kuujjuarapik with La Grande Riviere (YGL) and Sanikiluaq (YSK) were among those cancelled. Services involving Chisasibi (YKU) experienced delays, alongside additional schedule disruptions connected to Kuujjuarapik itself.

The concentration of cancellations tied to Kuujjuarapik, along with affected services to La Grande Riviere, Sanikiluaq, and Chisasibi, underscores the operational impact on regional air connectivity today. With multiple northern communities reliant on these links, the six disrupted flights represent the interruptions to scheduled service across the area.

Source: Different airports and FlightAware

Reclaim, the newly launched premium luggage management network, has expanded its U.S. presence by adding services at the voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown hotel. This strategic partnership offers guests a seamless luggage handling experience between the hotel and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport—one of the busiest airports in the U.S. The service is expected to significantly enhance the guest experience, especially as Atlanta prepares for major events like the FIFA World Cup.

Who Benefits from Reclaim’s Luggage Management Service?

This on-demand luggage management service is designed to make travel lighter and more convenient for guests staying at the voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown, an IHG-branded hotel. The service allows guests to book luggage handling through reclaim’s website. Luggage is picked up directly from the hotel lobby, up to six hours before flight departure, offering travelers a hassle-free experience without the burden of carrying bags around.

What Does Reclaim’s Luggage Management Service Involve?

Reclaim’s innovative service follows a simple three-step procedure:

1. Customer Identification: Travelers validate their identity.
2. Boarding Pass Confirmation: A quick check ensures that the guest has an active boarding pass.
3. Luggage Sealing: Luggage is sealed with tamper-evident tracking tags, providing guests with the ability to monitor their bags in real-time via SMS or email.

This straightforward system guarantees that travelers can track their luggage as it moves from the hotel to the airport, eliminating worries about lost or delayed baggage.

Where is Reclaim Expanding Its Services?

Currently, Reclaim’s luggage management service is available at voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown, but the company has plans for further expansion. The next locations to benefit from Reclaim’s on-demand luggage service will be Dallas-Fort Worth and Washington D.C., where travelers will also enjoy a smoother and more efficient travel experience. The service is particularly crucial as Atlanta anticipates increased international travel, driven by events such as the FIFA World Cup in the summer, when the city will host eight matches.

Why Is This Service Important for Travelers?

For guests at the voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown, Reclaim’s luggage management service offers unmatched convenience. Traveling can often be stressful, especially during peak periods or when dealing with large volumes of luggage. Reclaim’s seamless service allows travelers to simply drop off their luggage and continue their day, without the need to worry about hauling their bags to the airport. This is particularly beneficial for those with tight schedules or those who prefer to explore the city before their flight.

Additionally, the real-time luggage tracking ensures that travelers can stay informed about their luggage’s status, giving them peace of mind as they make their way to the airport.

How Does This Service Improve Guest Satisfaction at voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown?

The partnership with Reclaim allows voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown to reduce baggage-related bottlenecks and improve overall guest satisfaction. Handling large volumes of luggage during peak travel times can overwhelm hotel staff and create delays for travelers. By leveraging Reclaim’s technology, the hotel can streamline luggage logistics, improving operational efficiency and reducing guest wait times.

The partnership also aligns with the hotel’s commitment to providing guests with premium services that enhance their stay. As Atlanta continues to grow as a popular travel destination, especially with major events like international sports tournaments, hotels like voco The Darwin are prioritizing innovative solutions to stay competitive and meet the expectations of modern travelers.

What Does This Mean for the Broader Travel Industry?

Reclaim’s partnership with voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown represents a broader trend toward improving efficiency and guest satisfaction within the hospitality industry. As global travel continues to rebound, solutions that simplify logistics and streamline operations will be essential for hotels and airports alike. Luggage management, often a cumbersome process for both travelers and hospitality providers, is being transformed by digital tools like Reclaim’s platform, which integrates technology with operational procedures.

Moreover, the service benefits both the hotel and the travelers. For voco The Darwin, this partnership enhances its ability to manage guest expectations and provide a higher level of service, especially during peak travel times when airport logistics can become challenging. For travelers, it means one less thing to worry about, with a hassle-free, on-demand luggage service designed to reduce stress and maximize convenience.

How Is Reclaim Supporting Atlanta’s Global Reputation?

As Atlanta prepares to host international events like the FIFA World Cup, it will continue to attract large numbers of global travelers. Reclaim’s luggage management service plays a crucial role in elevating the city’s reputation by ensuring that visitors and tourists have a smooth, stress-free travel experience. With seamless luggage handling, Reclaim helps to position Atlanta as a modern and efficient destination for international tourists and business travelers.

In conclusion, Reclaim’s luggage management service is more than just a convenience—it’s a vital innovation in the evolving hospitality landscape. As the service expands to more cities, it is clear that the future of travel lies in technology-driven solutions that offer greater convenience and operational efficiency for both hotels and their guests.

Final Thoughts

With Reclaim’s premium luggage management platform now available at voco The Darwin Atlanta Midtown, travelers can expect an improved, stress-free travel experience. The service not only enhances guest satisfaction but also sets a new standard for hotel-luggage handling efficiency across the travel and hospitality industry. As the service expands to Dallas-Fort Worth and Washington D.C., more travelers will enjoy this innovative solution that lightens their travel load—literally and figuratively.

The landscape of regional aviation in Northeast India is poised for a significant transformation following a strategic partnership between the Government of Assam and the Airports Authority of India. A formal Memorandum of Understanding was recently executed to initiate comprehensive feasibility studies for the development of five new greenfield airports. These proposed aviation hubs are strategically planned to be situated in close proximity to prominent tourism sites, ensuring that the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the state are made more accessible to global and domestic travelers. Through this infrastructure development project, a robust framework is being established to support the growing demands of the aviation sector while simultaneously fostering economic growth within the Assam region.

A Strategic Vision for Regional Growth

The agreement was solidified in the presence of high-ranking officials and stakeholders who envision a future where travel across the state is seamless and efficient. It is observed that the primary objective of this collaboration is to identify viable locations that can support modern aeronautical operations without compromising the ecological integrity of the surrounding environments. By focusing on greenfield sites, the opportunity is taken to build facilities from the ground up, incorporating the latest technologies and sustainable practices. The initiative is seen as a pivotal step in the broader mission to integrate remote areas into the mainstream economic map of the country.

Geographic Focus and Tourism Integration

The selection of the five locations for these feasibility studies has been guided by the potential for tourism expansion. It is understood that areas near iconic landmarks and wildlife sanctuaries are being prioritized to ensure that the influx of visitors can be managed through structured aerial routes. By placing airports near these sites, the travel time for international and interstate tourists is significantly reduced. The beauty of places such as Kaziranga or the spiritual significance of various heritage zones is expected to be showcased more effectively once these transit points are operational. The narrative of Assam as a premier travel destination is thus being strengthened through these deliberate infrastructure investments.

The Role of the Airports Authority of India

Under the terms of the signed document, the technical expertise of the Airports Authority of India is being leveraged to conduct detailed assessments. These evaluations involve analyzing the topography, weather patterns, and environmental impact associated with each proposed site. It is required that every technical parameter meets the stringent safety standards set by aviation regulators. The partnership ensures that the burden of technical planning is handled by seasoned experts, while the state government facilitates the necessary land acquisition and administrative support. This synergy between central expertise and state-level execution is regarded as the cornerstone of the project’s potential success.

Economic Implications for Local Communities

Beyond the immediate benefits to the tourism industry, the construction and operation of five new airports are expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. It is anticipated that local laborers, engineers, and service providers will be integrated into the development phase. Once the airports become functional, a secondary economy involving hospitality, transport, and retail is likely to flourish around these aviation hubs. The upliftment of local communities through enhanced connectivity is a recurring theme in the developmental discourse of the state. Passive investment in these regions is projected to result in long-term financial stability for thousands of residents.

Environmental Considerations and Sustainable Development

Since the projects are categorized as greenfield developments, a heavy emphasis is placed on environmental sustainability. It is mandated that the feasibility studies include a thorough review of how these airports will interact with the local flora and fauna. Solutions such as solar energy integration, efficient waste management, and water conservation are being considered during the preliminary planning stages. The goal is to create a network of “green” airports that serve as a model for future infrastructure projects in ecologically sensitive zones. The balance between modernization and conservation is being maintained with great care by the involved parties.

Enhancing Multi-Modal Connectivity

The development of these airports is not viewed in isolation but as part of a larger multi-modal transport strategy. It is intended that these air links will complement existing road and rail networks, creating a comprehensive web of movement across Assam. The ease with which cargo and passengers can transition between different modes of transport is expected to improve the overall ease of doing business in the state. As the regional connectivity scheme continues to evolve, the addition of five new landing strips will provide the necessary redundancy and reach to handle emergency services and medical evacuations more effectively.

Future Timelines and Implementation Phases

Following the completion of the feasibility studies, a detailed project report will be prepared for each site. It is expected that the findings will dictate the timeline for the commencement of actual construction. While the initial phase focuses on data collection and site validation, the subsequent stages will involve architectural design and financial bidding processes. The commitment shown by the state leadership suggests that these projects are being placed on a fast-track trajectory. Constant monitoring of the progress is being conducted to ensure that the vision translated in the Memorandum of Understanding is realized within a reasonable timeframe.

Conclusion and Regional Impact

The signing of this agreement marks a new chapter in the history of Assamese aviation. It is believed that by bridging the gap between major cities and hidden tourist gems, the state is positioning itself as a leader in regional logistics and travel. The passive observation of growing air traffic trends has led to this proactive stance by the authorities. As the studies commence, the eyes of the nation are on this unique collaboration, which promises to redefine how the North East is perceived and accessed. The dedication to building a modern, efficient, and accessible Assam remains the driving force behind every clause of the newly signed pact.

In addition, the PM Hotel Group, a well-established industry leader in hospitality management, has officially announced the brand transition of the Hotel Arboretum to the newly branded City Express by Marriott Washington, DC Northeast. This change will not only usher the City Express by Marriott brand into the Northeast Washington, D.C. area but will also significantly bolster the competitive position of the hotel within the exciting and ever-increasing hospitality industry of our nation’s capital.

In addition, the transition of the hotel will come with a number of exciting enhancements to the overall guest experience, including the updated hotel rooms and common spaces, to ensure that the hotel becomes a first-choice option for travelers seeking value and convenience when traveling to the D.C. area, with many of the city’s top attractions within easy reach. This new brand will not only allow the hotel to tap into Marriott’s large consumer base but will also offer the benefits of Marriott’s Bonvoy program.

Elevating the Guest Experience: New Design and Functionality

The transition to City Express by Marriott Washington, DC Northeast brings a refreshed approach to the hotel’s design and amenities. The property, located at 2305 New York Ave NE, has been known for its value-driven offerings, catering primarily to business travelers, government contractors, and group bookings due to its proximity to Capitol Hill, Union Station, federal offices, and the U.S. National Arboretum. Now, with the brand transition, the hotel is enhancing its guestrooms and public spaces to provide updated furnishings, a streamlined design, and modern functionality that aligns with the evolving needs of today’s travelers.

Guests will also enjoy complimentary breakfast, thoughtfully appointed accommodations, and access to Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty program, offering seamless integration into one of the travel industry’s most recognized rewards platforms. This change is designed to attract a wider range of guests, from government personnel to tourists, providing a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Washington, D.C.

Strategic Location for Business and Leisure Travel

The hotel’s strategic location along New York Avenue NE places it in a prime position to capture both business and leisure travel demand. Its proximity to Capitol Hill and numerous federal agencies makes it particularly attractive for government and contractor business, while its accessibility to Union Station and key metro areas offers a convenient option for both group and leisure travelers. Additionally, the hotel’s updated features will cater to those visiting the nearby U.S. National Arboretum, Smithsonian museums, and other historic attractions within the D.C. area.

With the rise in demand for business-focused accommodations in Washington, D.C., combined with the added benefits of the City Express by Marriott brand, the hotel is poised to strengthen its competitive positioning in the market. It will now be able to serve a broader range of guests, including those participating in conventions, visiting family, or attending government-related events.

Expanding Marriott’s Reach in Washington, D.C.

The transition of Hotel Arboretum to City Express by Marriott Washington, DC Northeast marks an important step for both PM Hotel Group and Marriott, expanding the City Express brand into the highly competitive Washington, D.C. market. This move aligns with Marriott’s ongoing expansion in urban markets, offering value-driven accommodations in a city known for political, cultural, and economic significance.

The new property will join Marriott’s growing portfolio in the region and further enhance the availability of quality, affordable accommodations for travelers seeking convenient access to D.C.’s main attractions. With the hotel’s direct accessibility to the city’s key demand drivers and its elevated amenities, it is well-positioned to cater to a diverse guest profile, from corporate travelers to international tourists.

Strengthening D.C.’s Hospitality Offerings

The transformation from Hotel Arboretum to City Express by Marriott Washington, DC Northeast serves to highlight the increased relevance of value-driven and accessible accommodations within the hospitality industry within Washington, D.C. With tourism and business travel continuing to grow within these areas, particularly within government-centric locations, this revamped hotel will undoubtedly serve as a major contributor to the evolving hospitality industry within Washington, D.C.

By utilizing brand development strategies to enhance the overall experience for travelers within the region, this hotel will serve as a vital component within determining the future of affordable luxury within Washington, D.C. Additionally, it will serve to further establish the City Express by Marriott brand within a highly evolving tourism and business travel industry on a global scale.

Image Source: Marriott

For decades, the narrative of Dublin tourism has been synonymous with the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, the velvet pour of a Guinness, and the echoes of traditional music. But as the city evolves, so too must the way it welcomes the world. Recent discussions at the Dublin City Council’s Economic Development and Enterprise SPC have ignited a conversation that could fundamentally change how holidaymakers navigate the Fair City: the introduction of a dedicated tourism tax.

While the word “tax” often prompts a reflexive wince from the hospitality sector, the vision being laid out by city officials and local representatives isn’t just about collecting coins—it’s about reinvestment, sustainability, and enhancing the “Dublin experience” for everyone involved.

A New Vision for the Capital

The proposal comes at a pivotal time. Dublin City Council has recently established a dedicated tourism team, led by Susan Cooney, the newly appointed Head of Tourism. This team is tasked with a significant mission: aligning the city’s goals with regional and national strategies to ensure Dublin remains a world-class destination.

Central to this new strategy is the recognition that tourism is the “engine of the city.” With one in ten jobs in Dublin tied to the sector, the shift of the Tourism Department into the category of economic development marks a formal acknowledgment of the industry’s weight. However, with great popularity comes great pressure on infrastructure.

The Tourism Tax: What Would it Fund?

The concept of a “visitor levy” or tourism tax is far from a radical experiment. From the “Staycity” taxes in Venice and Paris to the nightly fees in many US states, tourist taxes are a global norm used to offset the wear and tear that millions of visitors place on a city’s public services.

In Dublin, the proposed tax would create a dedicated funding stream. According to Executive Manager Mary Mac Sweeney, while there is some predictable resistance from businesses concerned about rising costs, studies show that regions implementing such taxes often see a net positive impact. The funds would likely be funneled into:

• Enhanced Street Cleaning: Keeping the city’s “living room” presentable.
• Public Amenities: Better bin collections and public maintenance.
• Tourism Services: Funding the very infrastructure that allows visitors to enjoy the city.

The “Free Transport” Game Changer

Perhaps the most exciting suggestion to emerge from the recent council meetings came from Green Party Councillor Ray Cunningham. He proposed that the tourism tax could be leveraged to provide visitors with a “perk” that adds immense value to their stay: free public transport.

Imagine landing at Dublin Airport and, as part of your stay, receiving a Leap Card-style pass that grants unlimited access to the DART, Luas, and Dublin Bus. This “Active Travel” initiative would serve a dual purpose. Firstly, it would encourage tourists to venture “outside the canals,” relieving the congestion of the city center. Secondly, it would align perfectly with Dublin’s climate goals by reducing the reliance on taxis and rental cars.

However, officials are quick to note the need for balance. Mary Mac Sweeney emphasized that any move to waive transport costs for tourists must be backed by a robust income stream to ensure locals don’t feel sidelined. The goal is a “win-win” where the city’s infrastructure improves for residents and visitors alike.

Cultural Cards and Hidden Gems

The vision for a modernized Dublin tourism experience extends beyond the bus routes. Green Party Cllr Donna Cooney highlighted a common missed opportunity: many visitors are unaware of the wealth of free cultural assets Dublin offers.

While tourists in Paris or London queue for hours and pay high fees for museums, Dublin is home to world-class, free-to-access institutions like the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) and the Hugh Lane Gallery. Cllr Cooney suggested a “Cultural Card” or a “scavenger hunt” style pass (such as an “Art in Parks” card) to encourage visitors to explore sculptures in Merrion Square or St Anne’s Park.

By diversifying the “Dublin Brand” beyond the pub scene, the council hopes to attract a demographic of travelers looking for sustainable, art-led, and community-focused experiences.

Solving the Seasonality Struggle

One of the biggest hurdles facing Dublin’s economy is the “winter dip.” Reports show that visitor numbers can drop by as much as 30% during January and February. Susan Cooney’s team is focusing on “future-facing measures” to ensure Dublin is a year-round destination.

By funding winter festivals, cultural events, and indoor attractions through a tourism tax, the city could stabilize its economy and provide more consistent employment for those working in the 1-in-10 tourism-related jobs.

A Community-Centered Approach

At its heart, the new framework is about people. The council is prioritizing a “people-centered and community approach.” This means ensuring that tourism doesn’t just happen to Dubliners, but for them.

Whether it’s promoting the coastal cycle trails of Clontarf or the greenways of the suburbs, the goal is to spread the economic benefits of tourism into local neighborhoods. If a tourism tax can fund a cleaner, more efficient, and more vibrant city, it may find that its strongest supporters aren’t just the officials in City Hall, but the citizens who live and work in the heart of the engine.

Dublin stands at a crossroads. As the city looks toward a more sustainable, innovative future, the tourism tax represents more than just a fee—it represents an investment in the capital’s identity as a modern, welcoming, and world-class European city.

Newcastle, New South Wales is entering a new phase in its transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a vibrant cultural and lifestyle destination. The reopening of the Newcastle Art Gallery following a major redevelopment marks a milestone in the city’s ongoing renewal and signals growing momentum for tourism and investment. According to official local government information, the gallery has undergone a $48 million, four-year upgrade that preserves its original 1977 Brutalist structure while adding a contemporary extension. The expansion effectively doubles exhibition space and enables a larger portion of the gallery’s collection more than 7,000 works to be displayed to the public. The reopening exhibition, titled Iconic Loved Unexpected, showcases significant pieces from the permanent collection and positions the gallery as a central cultural attraction for visitors to the region.

From Industrial Heartland to Cultural Destination

The gallery’s redevelopment reflects broader economic and social changes underway across Newcastle. Historically known for steel production and heavy industry, the city began a period of transition after the closure of the BHP Steelworks Newcastle in 2000. The shutdown reshaped the local economy and prompted long-term planning focused on diversification, urban renewal and tourism growth. Government and regional development strategies have since emphasized culture, education, waterfront redevelopment and hospitality as key pillars for the city’s future. Today, Newcastle is widely promoted by official tourism bodies as a destination that blends heritage, coastal experiences and contemporary urban lifestyle. Despite this shift, the city’s industrial identity remains visible. The Port of Newcastle continues to operate as the world’s largest coal export facility, reinforcing the city’s ongoing role in Australia’s resource economy while new sectors expand alongside it.

Heritage Landmarks Reflect the City’s Past

Visitors exploring Newcastle encounter strong reminders of its historical significance. One of the city’s prominent heritage attractions is Fort Scratchley, originally constructed in the 19th century to protect the harbour. Today, the site operates as a publicly accessible museum with exhibitions, restored buildings and guided tours through its underground tunnels. From the headland, panoramic views illustrate the city’s layout coastline to the east, working harbour to the north and a growing urban core between them. Another key historic feature is the former Customs House, built in the 1870s, which has been adaptively reused as a hospitality venue. Such projects reflect a broader trend encouraged by local planning authorities to repurpose heritage structures for contemporary use rather than replace them. Religious architecture also forms part of the city’s heritage landscape. Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle remains a major landmark and houses important historical artefacts connected to the state’s military and civic history.

Coastline Lifestyle Drives Visitor Appeal

While industry shaped Newcastle’s past, its coastline is central to its modern tourism identity. Official tourism resources highlight the city’s beaches, ocean baths and walking trails as major drawcards. The historic Newcastle Ocean Baths remains a symbol of the city’s long-standing connection to coastal recreation. In contrast, newer developments such as the Merewether Surfhouse reflect contemporary lifestyle trends, combining dining, fitness culture and ocean views. Connecting many of these locations is the Bathers Way coastal trail, a six-kilometre route designed to encourage active tourism. One of its most distinctive features is the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a clifftop structure that commemorates local military service while offering scenic outlooks over the Pacific. The integration of heritage interpretation with recreational infrastructure aligns with broader government efforts to promote accessible outdoor experiences.

Waterfront Renewal Transforms the City Core

Perhaps the most visible example of Newcastle’s urban transformation is the redevelopment of the Honeysuckle precinct. Once dominated by rail yards and industrial facilities, the area has been reshaped into a mixed-use waterfront district through long-term state and local government planning. Today, Honeysuckle features public promenades, landscaped parkland, residential developments and a growing concentration of restaurants, bars and cafes. Official planning documents identify the precinct as one of Australia’s largest urban renewal projects, designed to reconnect the city centre with its harbour. The area’s relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on public space differentiate it from higher-density waterfront developments in larger metropolitan centres. At the same time, the working harbour remains active, preserving a visual link to Newcastle’s industrial roots.

New Hotels Signal Rising Visitor Demand

The evolution of Honeysuckle and the broader city centre has coincided with significant growth in the accommodation sector. Prior to 2021, Newcastle did not offer five-star hotel options. Since then, three high-end properties have opened, reflecting increased confidence in the city’s tourism market. The Crystalbrook Kingsley became the city’s first five-star hotel, created through the adaptive reuse of a distinctive former council administration building. The QT Newcastle followed, transforming a historic department store into a boutique lifestyle property in the East End. Most recently, the Little National Hotel Newcastle opened on the Honeysuckle waterfront, offering compact luxury accommodation targeted at business and leisure travellers. Tourism authorities view these developments as critical infrastructure supporting major events, business travel and extended visitor stays.

Café Culture and Dining Reflect Social Change

Another indicator of Newcastle’s changing identity is the growth of café and dining culture across inner-city neighbourhoods. Areas such as Darby Street and the East End have developed into hospitality hubs featuring specialty coffee, casual dining and contemporary cuisine.

Local government and tourism promotion agencies highlight these precincts as part of the city’s emerging cosmopolitan character. The shift represents a broader social transition from a predominantly blue-collar industrial town to a diversified urban community with a strong lifestyle focus.

A City Balancing Heritage and Reinvention

Despite the wave of redevelopment, Newcastle’s appeal lies in the coexistence of old and new. Modern cultural venues, luxury accommodation and waterfront dining operate alongside working port infrastructure, historic buildings and long-established neighbourhoods. This layered identity is increasingly emphasized in official destination branding, which promotes Newcastle as a place where industrial heritage, coastal living and contemporary culture intersect. Urban planners and tourism authorities acknowledge that the city remains in transition, with ongoing projects in the city centre, transport infrastructure and public spaces continuing to reshape the visitor experience.

Art Gallery Reopening Anchors Cultural Momentum

The reopening of the Newcastle Art Gallery is expected to strengthen the city’s cultural profile at a time when visitor numbers are growing across regional New South Wales. Expanded exhibition capacity will allow for major touring shows, community programs and education initiatives, supporting the city’s positioning as a regional arts hub. For travellers, the gallery’s relaunch provides a timely reason to visit, while also reflecting the broader transformation underway across Newcastle’s cultural landscape.

Why Newcastle Is a Destination to Watch

Official tourism bodies now market Newcastle as a short-break destination offering a combination of:

• Easy access from Sydney
• Award-winning beaches and coastal walks
• Heritage attractions and museums
• A revitalized waterfront and dining scene
• Growing arts and cultural infrastructure
• New premium accommodation options

The city’s ongoing evolution suggests its appeal will continue to expand, particularly for travellers seeking alternatives to larger urban centres without sacrificing amenities or experiences.

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The Bigger Picture

Newcastle’s journey from heavy industry to a diversified cultural and lifestyle economy is still unfolding. The art gallery redevelopment serves as a symbolic and practical milestone in that process, highlighting how investment in culture can support broader urban regeneration. With heritage preserved, new infrastructure delivered and the natural coastline still central to its identity, Newcastle is positioning itself as one of Australia’s most dynamic regional destinations where industrial history and contemporary creativity coexist along a working harbour and oceanfront.

Michigan, alongside Indiana, Texas, Ohio, Kentucky, and other US states, is about to experience heavy rains and a rising flood risk that could significantly disrupt US travel in the coming days. With severe weather on the horizon, the US tourism sector is bracing for travel delays, road closures, and potential flight cancellations. As storms roll through, heavy rainfall will pound Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky, triggering flooding concerns and making it essential for travelers to prepare for these disruptions. The rising flood risk combined with severe weather will create unpredictable conditions, especially across the Midwest and Great Lakes regions.

Travelers heading to Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky need to act now to safeguard their plans. This is no time for uncertainty, as severe weather may put your US travel in jeopardy. Stay ahead of the game and know what steps to take in the event of flooding, travel delays, and dangerous conditions. In this article, Travel and Tour World will guide you through how to prepare for the severe weather that’s heading toward the Midwest and Great Lakes regions. Don’t wait—read on to ensure you’re fully prepared!

March is coming with a stormy vengeance, unleashing severe weather, heavy rain, and rising floodwaters from Texas to Michigan and Ohio. The US tourism sector, travel enthusiasts, and locals alike need to brace themselves for this springlike surge that will dramatically affect the weather systems across the country. Severe storms, thunderstorms, and potential tornadoes are on the way, creating extreme conditions in some areas while others continue to grapple with persistent droughts. March 2026 will test the resilience of American infrastructure, as unpredictable weather patterns shift from the Plains to the Great Lakes, and travelers should prepare for chaos that could impact US travel plans. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about this massive weather event hitting the US this month!

The Jet Stream Shifts, and It’s About to Get Messy! What You Need to Know About March’s Extreme Weather Surge

Hold on tight because the jet stream is shifting, and it’s about to stir up a severe weather storm like nothing we’ve seen in recent years. A southward dip in the jet stream over the western United States will bring a violent collision of warm, moist air from the Gulf with colder air pressing in from behind. This collision will trigger severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and the potential for tornadoes, stretching across the southern Plains, the Mississippi Valley, and all the way to the Great Lakes. This weather event will flood areas, increase the risk of river flooding, and raise concerns for flooding disasters across the US.

As heavy rainfall strikes, the US tourism sector could face significant disruptions, especially with flooded roadways, cancelled flights, and rising water levels along major rivers. This major shift will impact US travel plans, especially for anyone planning to visit the midwest or southern states in March. This shift in the jet stream will bring unpredictable and extreme conditions, so buckle up and keep reading for a deep dive into the mayhem that’s about to hit US tourism.

Storms Roll in From Texas to Ohio: Will Severe Weather Shatter US Tourism Plans?

The southern Plains to the Great Lakes will bear the brunt of these storms, as multiple systems roll northeastward, triggering heavy rainfall, severe storms, and rising river levels. Areas like Texas, Louisiana, and the Mississippi Valley will experience rainstorms and thunderstorms that will impact US tourism and travel plans. What can travellers expect? Dangerous flash floods, potential tornadoes, and rising water levels could bring flooding chaos along the Ohio, Missouri, and Mississippi rivers. Heavy rain from repeated thunderstorms will exacerbate already swollen rivers, putting the US tourism sector in turmoil.

As severe weather looms, the risk of flash flooding in places like central Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas will likely escalate, making US travel to these areas risky. Tourists visiting these cities may find themselves stranded or caught in rising floodwaters. If you’re planning US travel around these weather hotspots, expect disruptions and flooded conditions that could severely alter your trip. So, what’s next for those looking to travel in the US in March? Let’s dive deeper into the severe weather event and understand how it will affect US tourism!

Drought Persists in the Southeast: A Dry Situation Amidst the Severe Storms in the US

While severe storms take hold across much of the US, the Southeast will experience the opposite: drought conditions that have worsened in places like Florida, which is currently grappling with extreme drought. 67% of the state is in extreme drought, and this situation is not likely to change anytime soon. US tourism in the Southeast will be affected, as droughts and dry conditions are expected to worsen over the next several weeks. The risk of wildfires will increase, making travel in regions like Florida more dangerous and unpredictable for tourists.

The high-pressure system over the Southeast will keep storm systems away, offering no relief to drought-stricken areas in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. In the US tourism sector, this means fewer opportunities for travellers to escape the heat as the drought worsens. For those planning vacations to the Southeast, prepare for more dry conditions and limited rainfall, which could impact your travel experience. While the northeast US will see some flooding chaos, the Southeast will suffer from the complete opposite, causing extreme challenges for tourism.

Flash Flooding Risk Increases as Snowmelt Meets Heavy Rainfall: What’s Ahead for US River Systems?

The flash flooding risk is expected to soar in the US as snowmelt from the Plains and Midwest combines with heavy rain and thunderstorms to trigger severe flooding. The US tourism sector should prepare for rising river levels and possible ice jams as heavy rainfall pours down. With rivers rising along the Ohio, Missouri, and Mississippi rivers, the risk of flooding disasters is a real concern for tourists planning to travel through these areas. Travellers should stay informed about potential road closures, flight disruptions, and rising water levels that could ruin any tourist experience.

With river systems swelling and ice jams blocking waterways, tourists might find themselves stranded or caught in delays as floods inundate roads and airports. The rising river levels could cause delays in transportation and travel disruptions across the US, especially in states like Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. If you’re planning US travel, especially to the midwest or Ohio Valley, you’ll need to stay ahead of the storm and be ready for potential flooding chaos that could halt your plans entirely.

US Tourists, Beware: Cold Air Could Be Pushed Back Into the Northeast as March Shifts

As the spring surge meets winter air, there’s uncertainty over how much cold air will creep back into the Northeast US in March 2026. While the weather pattern is expected to warm up, there’s a chance that a blocking pattern near Greenland could cause cold spells in the Upper Midwest and Northeast. The US tourism sector should be prepared for unpredictable weather as temperatures in the Northeast fluctuate. Heavy rainfall mixed with snowmelt could increase the risk of river flooding, causing potential disruptions in tourism and travel plans in these areas. The US tourism sector in New York, Boston, and Philadelphia could face weather-related challenges in the coming weeks.

As cold air pushes back into the region, snow and ice may affect US travel plans in the Upper Midwest and Northeast, triggering more travel chaos. Tourists planning vacations in cities like Boston or New York City may experience unpredictable weather that could put a damper on their trip. March 2026 is shaping up to be a month where cold and warm fronts clash, creating unpredictable weather for US tourism.

Conclusion: March Will Be a Month of Extreme Weather in the US – What It Means for US Tourism

March 2026 is shaping up to be a month of extreme weather across the US. From severe storms in the Plains and Great Lakes to droughts in the Southeast and rising river levels in the Mississippi Valley, US tourism is in for a wild ride. Tourists in Texas, Ohio, and the Midwest should prepare for potential flooding chaos that could disrupt their travel plans. The unpredictable weather of March 2026 will leave a lasting impact on the US tourism sector, causing delays, disruptions, and even flooding disasters in some areas.

As we head into March, US travel will need to adjust to the severe weather and climate shifts that could dramatically affect tourism. Whether it’s flash floods, snowmelt, or the clash of winter and spring, US tourists should stay alert and prepare for disruptions. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and travel advisories to avoid getting caught in the chaos.

Samsung recently launched the Galaxy S26 with many smart AI features, and one of the main highlights is its new AI document scanner. This feature makes scanning papers easier and smarter. It is designed to help people scan documents quickly with better quality.

The new scanner uses AI to find the edges of a paper automatically. It crops out the background like your table or desk. It also straightens the page if it is tilted. The phone fixes the lighting and removes shadows to make the text clear.

You just need to open the scanner and point your camera at the document. The phone does most of the work for you. It can also scan many pages and save them as one PDF file. This is helpful for school work, office papers, or bills.

Image via Android Authority

The feature is new and advanced. Many people may think they need the Galaxy S26 to scan documents this way. The AI makes it sound special and different. But the truth is much simpler.

Most Android phones already have a scanner in the Google Drive app via 9to5Google. You can open the app, tap the plus button, and choose “Scan.” It can also find the edges, crop the image, fix lighting, and remove shadows. It works fast and gives clear results.

You can scan many pages and save them as one PDF. The file is saved directly in Google Drive, ready to share. It only takes a few seconds to finish.

It means that you do not need a new phone just to scan documents. The tool is already on your Android phone. It is free, easy to use, and works very well.

The post Powerful Galaxy S26 scanner feature exists on every Android phone appeared first on Sammy Fans.

It’s almost time for Xiaomi’s big launch event, where we’ll see the global debut of the Xiaomi 17 series alongside new additions to its tablets and wearables. The keynote is set to start at 2PM Barcelona time (1PM UTC) tomorrow and will be livestreamed on YouTube through the linked video below. Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra are the two most anticipated devices. The pair will be joined by the Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi aka the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition. Sadly, the Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are not expected to join the other three members of the 17 series on their global...

Christian Pulisic remains one of the most discussed figures at Milan, even as 2026 has brought an unexpected dip in form. The American winger continues to command the trust of Massimiliano Allegri, and within the corridors of Milanello, there is still a firm belief that he represents both the present and the future of the club. The American is still considered essential, and Allegri is counting on one particular quality the winger offers.

For much of his time in Italy, Pulisic has been portrayed as a Renaissance story. After an uneven spell in England, he rediscovered confidence, consistency, and influence in Serie A. His first campaign at San Siro felt like a rebirth. However, recent weeks have introduced doubt.

Since the summer, the American star has battled ankle pain, a hamstring injury, and bursitis. Though he has scored eight league goals, rhythm and synergy with his attacking partner, Rafal Leao, have not fully materialized.

The 27-year-old winger carried much of the attacking burden in the first half of the campaign. However, he has not scored in 2026, and missed opportunities, notably against Parma and Fiorentina, have amplified scrutiny.

Allegri relies on key Pulisic quality

Despite the dip in form, Pulisic remains a vital asset, particularly beyond San Siro. As reported by Opta in its preview of Sunday’s match between Cremonese and Milan, Christian Pulisic is second in Serie A for away goals this season, with six, level with Bologna’s Santiago Castro. The Rossoneri’s forward has never scored more away from home in a single Italian campaign. He also reached six in 2024-25.

Across Europe’s top five leagues, he has surpassed that tally only once: during the 2019-20 season with Chelsea, when he netted seven away goals, as relayed by Milannews.it. Even more striking is the correlation between his goals and results. Whenever Pulisic scores away from home this season, his side wins. The pattern is emphatic:

• Lecce 0-2 Milan
• Udinese 0-3 Milan, with Pulisic scoring twice.
• Inter 0-1 Milan
• Torino 2-3 Milan, another brace from the American

These are not marginal fixtures. They include derbies and pressure-laden encounters. In hostile environments, Pulisic has repeatedly delivered. For Allegri, this is not a trivial statistic — it is a strategic weapon. Away form often defines title challenges and European qualification battles. The American’s ability to strike decisively on the road provides Milan with a competitive edge few in the squad replicate.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just over three months away, players are now at a point where even a moderate injury can leave them out of the tournament. That is exactly what happened to an Argentina teammate of Lionel Messi after a serious knee problem.

“Valentin Carboni suffered a tear of the ligaments in his right knee, which will require a recovery period of at least eight months,” La Nacion reported Friday regarding the young winger who plays for Racing Club on loan from Inter Milan.

“In Friday’s training session, Carboni went down after a teammate fell on him and alarmed everyone present,” the report adds. “After the medical staff performed tests on the pitch, he was moved to a nearby center for imaging that confirmed the worst: he had torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.”

This is the second similar injury Carboni has suffered in about a year and a half. The previous one occurred in October 2024, during a training session with the Argentina national team ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia.

At that time, the winger was on loan at Olympique de Marseille from Inter Milan, where his performances had made him a regular option for Lionel Scaloni at the international level. However, that injury kept him out for about eight months, and he only returned to action with Inter in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Carboni is ruled out for the World Cup

With no place at Inter and a less successful loan spell at Genoa in the first half of the 2025–26 season, Valentin Carboni chose Racing Club to play this year in hopes of regaining his 2024 form and getting back into Lionel Scaloni’s consideration.

He had already been part of the squad at the 2024 Copa America, where he played one match on Argentina’s way to the title. However, things have been very different this time: the winger lost his place in the Racing starting lineup after several disappointing performances and now suffered this serious injury that definitively rules him out of both the Finalissima and the World Cup.

Second confirmed Argentina absence for the World Cup

The serious injury to Valentin Carboni is the second of this magnitude Argentina have suffered ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Just a month ago, Juan Foyth was also ruled out due to a rupture of his Achilles tendon while playing for Villarreal against Real Madrid in La Liga.

While neither Carboni nor Foyth was guaranteed a spot in Lionel Scaloni’s 26‑man World Cup roster, both had been included in recent call-ups and were considered viable options for the squad, having also been part of teams that won major tournaments.

Exactly one month remains until the Finalissima. Argentina and Spain will face each other on March 27 at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, aiming to claim a new trophy and gain a crucial boost ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In that context, a Paris Saint-Germain player could be sidelined due to physical problems.

“Following his latest medical check-up, Fabian Ruiz will follow a tailor-made work schedule over the next few weeks in order to relieve his knee pain,” PSG reported Friday in a statement on their official website.

The Spanish midfielder has been out of action for more than a month due to a knee injury that has taken longer than expected to heal. His last official match was on January 20, in the 2-1 loss to Sporting CP during the UEFA Champions League league phase.

Since then, Ruiz has missed eight matches across the European competition and Ligue 1, and that number is expected to grow in the near future. According to PSG’s statement, at least a couple more weeks will be needed before the 29-year-old Spanish player can return.

This would rule him out of Ligue 1 matches against Le Havre and AS Monaco, as well as the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Chelsea, scheduled for Tuesday, March 10.

The Finalissima in doubt for Ruiz

Even in the most optimistic scenario, Fabian Ruiz will need a couple of weeks to fully overcome the knee pain and return to regular training. After that, he will likely need additional time to regain match fitness.

These timelines put the midfielder in serious doubt for the Finalissima. With exactly four weeks remaining until March 27, it will be a tight window for Ruiz to recover, play a few matches with PSG, and convince Luis De La Fuente that he is ready for a demanding clash against Argentina.

Spain facing multiple challenges ahead of the Finalissima

Ruiz’s potential absence is not Spain’s only concern ahead of the Finalissima. In recent weeks, several national team players have suffered injuries that not only sidelined them at the club level but also put their availability against Argentina in question.

Marc Cucurella is one of the latest, after suffering a hamstring injury with Chelsea. Earlier, Nico Williams raised concerns due to a pubalgia, a condition with unpredictable recovery timelines. Additionally, two players have already been ruled out due to more serious injuries: Mikel Merino and Samu.

‘s next fight has finally been confirmed. Usyk was last in action in July when he became undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time with a fifth round knockout victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium. The Ukrainian vacated his WBO belt later that year, but remains in possession of the WBC, WBA and IBF […]

The post Oleksandr Usyk’s next opponent named as he defends his WBC title in May appeared first on Boxing News.

This September, and will revisit their rivalry in one of the standout events of the 2026 boxing calendar. Ahead of the rematch, former WBO lightweight champion has offered his thoughts. Mayweather and Pacquiao collided in the ‘Fight of the Century’ back in 2015, as ‘TBE’ claimed a crucial unanimous decision to become a three-belt unified […]

The post Keyshawn Davis predicts Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2: “It’s different this time” appeared first on Boxing News.

Trendyol 1. Lig'in 28. haftasında Alagöz Holding Iğdır FK, deplasmanda İstanbulspor'u 2-1 yendi.

Stat: Esenyurt Necmi Kadıoğlu

Hakemler: Ozan Ergün, Gökmen Baltacı, Kadir Akıllı

İstanbulspor: Alp Tutar, Özcan Şahan, Duran Şahin, Mendy, Fatih Tultak, Turan Tuncer (Dk. 78 Cham), Ömer Faruk Duymaz (Dk. 71 Aroujo), İsa Dayaklı (Dk. 78 Vefa Temel), Yusuf Ali Özer, Sambissa (Dk. 46 Mamadou), Krstovski (Dk. 46 Mustafa Sol)

Alagöz Holding Iğdır FK: Sinan Bolat, Gökcan Kaya (Dk. 90+1 Tunahan Ergül), Atakan Çankaya, Tsunami, Ali Yaşar, Robin Yalçın, Doh, Ahmet Engin (Dk. 78 Bacuna), Loshaj (Dk. 90+1 Ali Kaan Güneren), Fofana (Dk. 59 Mendes), Koita (Dk. 78 Bruno)

Goller: Dk. 45+2 Fofana, Dk. 48 Koita (Alagöz Holding Iğdır FK), Dk. 52 Yusuf Ali Özer (İstanbulspor)

Sarı kartlar: Dk. 33 Doh, Dk. 54 Robin Yalçın, Dk. 67 Ahmet Engin, Dk. 88 Sinan Bolat (Alagöz Holding Iğdır FK), Dk. 67 Alp tutar (İstanbulspor)

Sezonun ilk yarısında çizgideki performansıyla eleştirilen Kerem Aktürkoğlu, teknik direktör Tedesco'nun taktiksel değişikliğiyle küllerinden doğdu. Santrfor ve iç koridora yaklaştırıldığında skorer kimliğini ortaya koyan milli futbolcu, yeni rolüyle takımın gol yükünü çekmeye başladı. Kerem artık kanat değil, forvet oynayacak gibi duruyor.

Sezonun ilk devresinde beklentilerin altında kalan ve eleştirilerin hedefi olan Kerem Aktürkoğlu'nun performansındaki değişimin perde arkası aralandı. Fenerbahçeli yıldızın form grafiğini yükselten asıl faktör, teknik direktör Tedesco'nun taktiksel değişikliği oldu.

Ligin başında Kerem'i çizgide kullanmak isteyen Tedesco, oyuncudan beklediği verimi alamadı. Ancak teknik ekibin hamlesiyle Kerem santrfor bölgesine ve iç koridora yaklaştırıldı. Bu da performansını yukarı taşıdı.

Kerem'in eleştirildiği maçlardaki konumuna bakıldığında çizgide yalnız kaldığı, skora katkı sağladığı anlarda ise ceza sahasına daha yakın oynadığı net bir şekilde görülüyor.

Analizlere göre, Kerem'den maksimum verim alınmak isteniyorsa kesinlikle kanatta değil, forvet hattında görev yapması gerektiği kanıtlandı.

Kerem Aktürkoğlu'nun santrfor/ikinci forvet, orta sahada ise N'Golo Kante ve İsmail Yüksek ikilisiyle kurulan sistemin takımın iskeleti olması gerektiği vurgulanıyor. Kerem, bu yeni taktik dizilişle Nottingham maçında şov yaparak UEFA Avrupa Ligi'ne galibiyetle veda edilmesinin anahtarı oldu.

Süper Lig'de N'Golo Kanté fırtınasının kopacağı tarih belli oldu! Nottingham maçında performansıyla "gerçek Kanté yolda" dedirten Fransız yıldız için asıl hedefi milli ara sonrası. Özellikle 6 numarada maestro gibi oynadığı maçta tam not alan tecrübeli oyuncu için "2 ay sonra durdurulamaz olacak" yorumları yapılıyor.

UEFA Avrupa Ligi'nde Nottingham karşısındaki performansıyla dikkatleri üzerine çeken N'Golo Kanté hakkında çarpıcı değerlendirmeler yapılmaya başlandı.

İlk geldiği dönemde sahadaki görüntüsüyle "Kanté'nin çakması mı geldi?" dedirten tecrübeli oyuncunun, fiziksel olarak henüz tam kapasitesine ulaşmadığı ancak maç oynadıkça form tuttuğu belirtiliyor. Fenerbahçe teknik heyeti Kanté'nin 2 ay sonra çok daha üst düzey bir performans sergileyeceği bilgisini takım muhabirlerine fısıldıyor.

Kanté'nin İngiltere'deki performansı şimdi de saha içindeki pozisyonunu tartışmaya açtı. Yıldız oyuncunun, 8 numara pozisyonundan ziyade 6 numarada (defansif orta saha) oynadığında çok daha etkili olduğu ve pas trafiğini yöneterek takıma büyük katkı sağladığı gözlemlendi.

Kanté'nin Türkiye'ye gelmesini eleştirenlerin aksine saha dışındaki mütevazı yaşantısı ve profesyonelliği de övgü almaya devam ediyor. Futbol kamuoyunda, "Namazında niyazımda, adam gibi adam. Kanté bir markadır" yorumları yeniden yapılmaya başlandı. Genç oyuncuların onunla aynı sahayı paylaşmasının büyük bir şans olduğu vurgulandı.

Eksiklere ve santrforsuzluğa mazeret üretmeyen Tedesco, Nottingham deplasmanındaki yoğun baskıya genetiğindeki kazanma refleksiyle boyun eğmedi. 19 yaşındaki Sidiki Cherif'in devleştiği gecede Fenerbahçe, 2-1'lik skorla iradesini sahaya yansıttı.

Fenerbahçe, zorlu Nottingham deplasmanı atmosferinde karşılaştığı yoğun baskıya rağmen Tedesco'nun yönetiminde sergilediği karakteristik özellikle 2-1'lik galibiyetle döndü. Takımın önemli eksiklerine ve net bir santrforun yokluğuna rağmen teslim olmayan sarı-lacivertliler, pes etmeyen yapısını bir kez daha kanıtladı.

Maç öncesi ve sonrası açıklamalarda bulunan teknik direktör Tedesco, eldeki imkansızlıklara rağmen serzenişte bulunmadı. "Elimizden geleni yapacağız" diyerek mazeret üretmeyen Alman çalıştırıcı, Fenerbahçe'nin genetiğinde bulunan başarma, kazanma ve zor durumlardan çıkma refleksini takıma aşıladığını gösterdi.

Eksiklerin olduğu bu atmosferde santrfor pozisyonunda görev yapan Sidiki Cherif "ben buradayım" dedirten isim oldu. 19 yaşındaki genç oyuncu, böylesine yüksek baskılı bir deplasmanda ayakları titremeden, yere sağlam basarak ve sorumluluk alarak olgun bir performans sergiledi.

Beşiktaş'ın YouTube özel yayınında konuşan Hyeongyu Oh, Sergen Yalçın'ı bile şaşkına çeviren gol sevincinin ardındaki sırrı açıkladı! Attığı golle 200 kilometre hıza ulaştığını iddia eden Koreli yıldızın, sosyal medyayı sallayan meşhur "gözyaşı damlası" bacak kaslarının ardındaki sır da ortaya çıktı.

Beşiktaş'ın YouTube özel yayınında konuşan Hyeongyu Oh, Sergen Yalçın'ı bile şaşkına çeviren gol sevincinin ardındaki sırrı açıkladı! Attığı golle 200 kilometre hıza ulaştığını iddia eden Koreli yıldızın, sosyal medyayı sallayan meşhur "gözyaşı damlası" bacak kaslarının ardındaki sır da ortaya çıktı.

Beşiktaş’ın YouTube kanalında 'Katıl' üyelerine özel yayınlanan videoda, Hyeongyu Oh dikkat çeken açıklamalarda bulundu. Attığı gol sonrası yaşanan sevince değinen Koreli, fiziksel durumuyla ilgili ipuçları da verdi.

Gol sevincinin takım içindeki etkisine değinen Oh, Teknik Direktör Sergen Yaçın'ın reaksiyonuna dikkat çekerek şu ifadeleri kullandı:

-Hocanın 5 sene önce şampiyon olunduğunda bile böyle bir reaksiyon vermediği söylendi. Bununla çok gurur duydum.

Muhabirin "Sence attığın golde top kaç kilometre hızla kaleye gitmiştir?" sorusuna oldukça iddialı bir yanıt veren Güney Koreli oyuncu, "200 vardır" diyerek golün şiddetini vurguladı.

Oh'un sosyal medyada gündem olan belirgin ve hacimli bacak kaslarına sahip olmak için gereken teknik detaylar ise sorumluluk ve çalışma gerektiren bir sürecin eseri.

Oh kas hacmini artırmak ve parçalı bir görünüm elde etmek için iki aşamalı bir program uyguluyor. Squat, Deadlift ve Leg Press ile kasların hacmini inşa ediyor. Leg Extension ve Leg Curl gibi hareketlerle kasın parçalı görünümü ortaya çıkarıyor. Kasları sürekli zorlamak için ağırlıklar veya tekrar sayıları zamanla artırıyor.

Kasların görünür olması için yağ tabakasını da minimize etmiş durumda. Kas onarımı için kilo başına 1.6g - 2.2g protein tüketiyor. Parçalı ve damarlı bir görünüm için vücut yağ oranının %10-%12 seviyelerine çekmiş durumda.

Uzmanlara göre Oh'un diz üstündeki "gözyaşı" damlası şeklindeki kas (Vastus Medialis) ve arka bacak (Hamstrings) grubu, derin squat ve leg curl hareketleriyle belirginleştirilmelidir.

Teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın ve kaptan Orkun Kökçü'nün cezalı, Toure ile Topçu'nun ise sakat olduğu Beşiktaş'ta, Kocaelispor deplasmanı öncesi tüm yük Güney Koreli Oh ve yeni taktik planların üzerine bindi.

Beşiktaş, bugün deplasmanda oynayacağı Kocaelispor maçı öncesi hem eksiklerle hem de yeni planlarla sahaya çıkıyor. Siyah-beyazlılarda teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın ve takım kaptanı Orkun Kökçü, sarı kart cezalısı oldukları için bu kritik mücadelede takımlarını sahada yalnız bırakacaklar.

Yalçın’ın yokluğunda kulübede Murat Kaytaz yer alırken, cezalı olmasına rağmen takımını yalnız bırakmak istemeyen Orkun Kökçü ise kafileyle birlikte Kocaeli’ye gitti.

Beşiktaş'ta cezalıların yanı sıra El Bilal Toure ve Emirhan Topçu da sakatlıkları nedeniyle Kocaelispor'a karşı forma giyemeyecek. Başkan Serdal Adalı maçın atmosferini taraftarlarla birlikte yaşamak için deplasman tribününde yerini alacak. Ayrıca kulüp tarafından deplasmana giden taraftarlara iftariyelik dağıtımı yapılacak.

Orkun Kökçü'nün son dönemdeki yüksek performansına ve kart cezası almasına neden olan yoğun oyununa dikkat çekilirken, teknik ekibin bu yoklukta skor sorununu Hyeon-gyu Oh ile çözmeyi hedeflediği öğrenildi.

Devre arasında takıma katılan Güney Koreli golcü, Alanyaspor, Başakşehir ve Göztepe maçlarında attığı 3 golle müthiş bir istatistik yakaladı.

Orkun Kökçü'nün yokluğunda takımın pas oyununa yönelmesi beklenirken, kritik pasları Olaitan'ın üstlenmesi planlanıyor. Taktiksel olarak ise, Kocaelispor'un dar dizilişine karşı Vaclav Cerny'nin merkeze geçerek Amir Murillo ile kanatlardan genişlik yaratması hedefleniyor. Savunmada ise Agbadou’nun, Kocaelisporlu Petkovic’e uygulayacağı yakın markaj galibiyet planının kilit taşlarından biri olacak.

Beşiktaş'ta transfer gündemini meşgul eden Altay Bayındır iddiaları kulüp kaynakları tarafından yalanlandı. Siyah-beyazlı yönetimin, hata payını sıfıra indirmek adına "dünya çapında" tecrübeli bir kaleci arayışında olduğu ve mevcut form grafiği yükselen Ersin Destanoğlu'na olan güveninin tam olduğu öğrenildi.

Beşiktaş'ta gelecek sezonun kadro yapılanması kapsamında transfer çalışmaları sürerken, kaleci pozisyonu için ortaya atılan iddialara kulüp kaynaklarından net yanıtlar geliyor. Bir süredir gündemi meşgul eden Altay Bayındır transferi konusunda siyah-beyazlı yönetimin şu aşamada bir planının olmadığı öğrenildi.

Gelen bilgilere göre yönetim, transfer komitesiyle birlikte yürüttüğü çalışmalar kapsamında çok daha farklı profil ve "dünya çapında" olarak nitelendirilen tecrübeli kalecilerle temas halinde. Ocak transfer döneminde takıma takviyeler yaparak teknik ekibin yüzünü güldüren Serdal Adalı yönetiminin, gelecek sezon şampiyonluğa doğrudan etki edecek ve kalede mutlak güven sağlayacak bir ismi kadroya katmakta kararlı olduğu belirtiliyor.

Yönetimin amacı, şampiyonluk yolunda hata payını sıfıra indirmek ve mevcut kadro kalitesinin üzerine çıkmak. Bu nedenle Altay Bayındır iddialarının altı boş.

Öte yandan, Beşiktaş'ın kalesini şu an başarıyla koruyan ve her geçen hafta formunu yükselten Ersin Destanoğlu'nun performansına teknik heyet ve yönetimin güveni tam. Genç eldiven için medyanın sürekli Altay Bayındır haberleri yapmasının Ersin üzerinde olumsuz etki yarattığı ve moralini bozduğu vurgulanıyor.

Bu durumun takımın huzurunu bozabileceğine dikkat çekilirken, yönetimin Ersin'i korumak ve konsantrasyonunu sadece sahaya vermesini sağlamak adına bu transfer haberlerinden rahatsız olduğu ifade ediliyor.

Halkbank Kadınlar Basketbol Süper Ligi'nin 22. haftasında Beşiktaş BOA, deplasmanda Dardanel Çanakkale Belediyespor'u 107-61 mağlup etti.

Salon: Çanakkale Sporcu Gelişim Merkezi

Hakemler: Nihat Çetin, Anıl Veziroğlu, İsmail Bayram

Dardanel Çanakkale Belediyespor : Reyyan Yiğit 2, Saliha Mandıracı 21, Elif Emirtekin 2, Dilara Tongar 7, Simge Tokmak 11, Başak Altunbey, Nisa Yalçın 10, Sıla Kaya 8

Beşiktaş BOA: İdil Saçalır 9, Gülşah Duman Bıçakçı 3, Pelin Bilgiç 12, Özge Özışık 4, Gizem Sezer 6, Meltem Yıldızhan 16, İlayda Güner 11, Whitcomb 8, Fasoula 15, Fraser 7, Toure 16

1. Periyot: 19-30

Devre: 32-57

3. Periyot: 52-79

Galatasaray, Trednyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasında yarın sahasında Corendon Alanyaspor ile karşılaşacağı mücadelenin hazırlıklarını tamamladı.

Sarı-kırmızılı kulübün açıklamasına göre Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Tesisleri'nde, teknik direktör Okan Buruk yönetimindeki idman, dinamik ısınmayla başladı.

İki grup halinde 8'e 2 pas çalışmasıyla devam eden antrenman, taktik uygalamalarıyla sona erdi.

RAMS Park'taki Galatasaray-Corendon Alanyaspor karşılaşması, saat 20.00'de başlayacak.

Beşiktaş, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasında yarın Kocaelispor ile deplasmanda oynayacağı maçın hazırlıklarını tamamlayarak kampa girdi.

Siyah-beyazlı kulübün açıklamasına göre BJK Nevzat Demir Tesisleri'nde, teknik direktör Sergen Yalçın yönetimindeki idman, 1 saat sürdü. Koşul ve 5'e 2 top kapma çalışmasıyla başlayan antrenman, taktiksel idmanla tamamlandı.

Turka Araç Muayene Kocaeli Stadı'nda oynanacak Kocaeli-Beşiktaş mücadelesi, saat 16.00'da başlayacak.

Vodafone Sultanlar Ligi'nin 24. haftasında Fenerbahçe Medicana, sahasında Bahçelievler Belediyespor'u 3-0 yendi.

Salon: Burhan Felek Vestel

Hakemler: Sadettin Kıral, Seçkin Yener

Fenerbahçe Medicana: Milenkovic, Dicle Nur Babat, Arelya Karasoy, Ana Cristina, Aslı Kalaç, Bedart (Gülce Güçtekin, Sude Hacımustafaoğlu, Hande Baladın)

Bahçelievler Belediyespor: Fulden Ural, Fatma Nur Yılmaz, Jaksic, Reid, Eda Say, Nikolova (Berre İnce, Sema Doluca, Dilara Yeşil, Selin Çalışkan, Ceylan Arısan, Yağmur Karaoğlu)

Setler: 25-11, 25-11, 25-14

Süre: 64 dakika (21, 21, 22)

RAMS Başakşehir, Trendyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasında TÜMOSAN Konyaspor'u 2-0 mağlup etti. Başakşehir'in gollerini 53. ve 61. dakikalarda Selke attı.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasındaRAMS Başakşehir, TÜMOSAN Konyaspor'u konuk etti.

Başakşehir Fatih Terim Stadyumu'nda oynanan maçtan galip ayrılan taraf, 2-0'lık skorla ev sahibi takım oldu.

Turuncu-lacivertlilere galibiyeti getiren golleri 52 ve 61. dakikalarda Davie Selke kaydetti.

RAMS Başakşehir bu sonuçla puanını 39'a yükseltirken, bu sezonki 11. yenilgisini alan TÜMOSAN Konyaspor 23 puanda kaldı.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 25. haftasında RAMS Başakşehir, 7 Mart Cumartesi günü saat 16.00'da Göztepe'yi konuk edecek. TÜMOSAN Konyaspor ise 8 Mart Pazar günü aynı saatte Kasımpaşa'yı ağırlayacak.

MAÇTAN DAKİKALAR

23. dakikada Berkan Kutlu'nun ceza yayı içinden plase vuruşunda kaleci Muhammed soluna uzanarak topu kornere çeldi.

34. dakikada Yusuf Sarı'nın sağdan ortasında Berkan'ın uzaklaştıramadığı top, ceza sahası içi sağ çaprazdaki Ömer Ali'nin önünde kaldı. Tecrübeli futbolcunun şutunda kaleci Bahadır meşin yuvarlağı kontrol etti.

Müsabakanın devre arasına golsüz eşitlikle girildi.

52. dakikada turuncu-lacivertli ekip öne geçti. Hızlı gelişen ev sahibi takım atağında Shomorodov'un pasında topla sağ kanatta buluşan Yusuf Sarı, kendisini karşılayan Adil Demirbağ'ı iki kez çalımlayarak ortasını yaptı. Altıpasta uygun durumda bulunan Selke, kafayla meşin yuvarlağı ağlara gönderdi: 1-0.

59. dakikada Kramer'in soldan pasında penaltı noktası gerisinde topla buluşan Bardhi'nin bekletmeden şutunda top yandan auta çıktı.

61. dakikada ev sahibi takım farkı 2'ye çıkardı. Operi'nin soldan ortasında arka direkte topu kontrol eden Selke, üç rakibinin arasından düzgün bir vuruşla fileleri havalandırdı: 2-0.

83. dakikada Kramer'in sağdan ortasında Başakşehir savunmasının ters vuruşunda top az farkla direğin üstünden kornere çıktı.

84. dakikada Olaigbe'nin soldan kullandığı kornerde kaleye yönelen meşin yuvarlak üst direğe çarparak auta gitti.

Müsabaka ev sahibi ekibin 2-0 üstünlüğüyle sona erdi.

Stat: Başakşehir Fatih Terim

Hakemler: Oğuzhan Aksu, Samet Çiçek, Ogün Kamacı

RAMS Başakşehir: Muhammed Şengezer, Ömer Ali Şahiner (Dk. 76 Onur Bulut), Ba, Opoku, Operi, Umut Güneş (Dk. 90 Da Costa), Kemen (Dk. 90 Berat Özdemir), Yusuf Sarı (Dk. 69 Brnic), Shomorodov, Fayzullayev, Selke (Dk. 76 Onur Ergün)

TÜMOSAN Konyaspor: Bahadır Han Güngördü, Andzouana, Uğurcan Yazğılı, Adil Demirbağ, Arif Boşluk (Dk. 82 Gonçalves), Berkan Kutlu (Dk. 88 Svendsen), Bjorlo (Dk. 62 Muleka), Deniz Türüç (Dk. 82 Tunahan Taşçı), Bardhi (Dk. 63 Jo Jin-Ho), Olaigbe, Kramer

Goller: Dk. 52 ve 61 Selke (RAMS Başakşehir)

Sarı kartlar: Dk. 11 Opoku, Dk. 39 Selke, Dk. 40 Kemen (RAMS Başakşehir), Dk. 45 Kramer (TÜMOSAN Konyaspor)

Trabzonspor Teknik Direktörü Fatih Tekke, Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük mücadelesi öncesi açıklamalarda bulundu.

Trendyol Süper Lig'in 24. haftasında Trabzonspor, sahasında Mısırlı.com.tr Fatih Karagümrük'ü konuk ediyor. Bordo-mavili takımın teknik direktörü Fatih Tekke, mücadele öncesi açıklamalarda bulundu.

Yayıncı kuruluşa konuşan Tekke'nin açıklamalarından öne çıkanlar şu şekilde:

Fatih Tekke: "Geçen hafta herkes '3'lü oynadık' dedi, ama öyle bir şey yok. 3 stoperle oynuyoruz ama 3'lü oynamıyoruz. Galatasaray maçına kadar en zor maçımız. Umarım kolay geçer ama kolay geçeceğini sanmıyorum. Fatih Karagümrük'ün iyi bir takımı var."

Bu gün futbol üzrə Türkiyə çempionatında (Super Liqa) 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 24-cü turunun oyunlarına start verilib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, ilk oyun günündə iki qarşılaşma baş tutub.

“Başakşəhər” doğma meydanda “Konyaspor”la, “Trabzonspor” isə “Karagümrük”lə üz-üzə gəlib. Hər iki oyunda meydan sahibləri inamlı qələbəyə seviniblər.

Turun qalan görüşləri şənbə və bazar günlərinə təsadüf edəcək.

Türkiyə, Super Liqa
24-cü tur
27 fevral

Başakşəhər – Konyaspor 2:0
Qollar: Selke, 52; 61.

Trabzonspor – Karagümrük 3:1
Qollar: Onuaçu, 20. Nvayvu, 47; 50 – Verde, 28.

28 fevral

14:30. Kasımpaşa – Rizəspor
17:00. Kocaelispor – Beşiktaş
21:00. Qalatasaray – Alanyaspor
21:00. Göztəpə – Eyüpspor

1 mart

17:00. Gənclərbirliyi – Kayserispor
21:00. Antalyaspor – Fənərbağça
21:00. Samsunspor – Qaziantep

Futbol üzrə Azərbaycan millisinin mərkəz müdafiəçisi Cəlal Hüseynov Bolqarıstanın “Arda” komandasının heyətində növbəti matçına çıxıb.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, Cəlalın komandası Bolqarıstan çempionatının 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün 23-cü turu çərçivəsində Varna “Spartak”ı ilə qarşılaşıb.

Doğma meydanda baş tutmuş bu oyunda “Arda” qələbəyə sevinib – 1:0. Hüseynov bu görüşün 74-cü dəqiqəsində meydana buraxılıb.

“Arda” 23 turdan sonra 31 xalla 16 iştirakçı arasında 7-ci pillədə qərarlaşıb. Komanda əvvəlki turlarda 8 qələbə qazanıb, 7 heç-heçə edib, 8 məğlubiyyətə üzülüb.

Xatırladaq ki, “Zirə”nin yetirməsi olan Cəlal Hüseynov Bolqarıstan təmsilçisi ilə 2023-cü ilin iyun ayında 3 illik müqavilə imzalayıb. Azərbaycanlı futbolçu bu komandada 71 rəsmi oyuna çıxıb, 2 qol vurub. Cəlal 2024/2025-ci illər mövsümünü icarə əsasında “Şamaxı”da keçirsə də, ötən ilin yayında yenidən Bolqarıstan klubuna qayıdıb.

Hüseynov 2021-ci ilin noyabrında debüt etdiyi Azərbaycan milli komandasının heyətində 8 oyuna çıxsa da, məhsuldar fəaliyyəti ilə yadda qalmayıb.

Minifutbol üzrə Azərbaycan milli komandasının Avropa çempionatının final mərhələsindəki rəqibləri müəyyənləşib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, püşkatma mərasimi Slovakiyanın paytaxtı Bratislavada təşkil edilib.

Püşkatma zamanı birinci səbətdə yer almış Azərbaycan milli komandası F qrupunda Fransa, İtaliya və Avstriya yığmalarına rəqib olub.

Qeyd edək ki, minifutbol üzrə Avropa çempionatının final mərhələsi bu il mayın 27-dən iyunun 4-nə qədər Bratislavada təşkil olunacaq. Azərbaycan milli komandasının oyunlarının təqvimi daha sonra müəyyənləşəcək.

Parma welcome Cagliari to the Stadio Ennio Tardini tonight, as Carlos Cuesta’s side look to make it four consecutive victories against a fellow mid-table team.

The Gialloblu have picked up back-to-back-to-back wins against Bologna, then Verona, then Milan at San Siro.

Carlos Cuesta has significantly improved the club’s fortune and his pragmatic approach to tactics and team selection see them sit in 12th place, on 32 points. This gives them an eight point gap on the relegation zone and safety should be on the cards this campaign.

Cagliari, meanwhile, sit a place below Parma in 13th. The Sardinians are three points behind tonight’s opposition and they can go level on points, therefore, with a victory.

Parma vs Cagliari – Official Lineups

Parma: Corvi, Del Prato, Troilo, Valenti, Britscghi, Bernabe, Keita, Ordonez, Valeri, Strefezza, Pellegrino.

Cagliari: Caprile, Ze Pedro, Dossena, Rodriguez, Obert, Adopo, Liteta, Sulemana, Palestra, Esposito, Kilicsoy.

27-02-2026 19:45

MatchDay 27

Parma Store (Stadio Ennio Tardini)

Parma

Cagliari

vs

Season Analytics

Parma

Positions

Cagliari

SEASON TOTAL

PAR HOME

3

4

6

8

8

10

Last matches

22-02-2026		Milan	W	0 - 1
15-02-2026		Verona	W	2 - 1
08-02-2026		Bologna	W	0 - 1
01-02-2026		Juventus	L	1 - 4
25-01-2026		Atalanta	L	4 - 0

15-02-2026		Verona	W	2 - 1
01-02-2026		Juventus	L	1 - 4
18-01-2026		Genoa	D	0 - 0
07-01-2026		Inter	L	0 - 2
27-12-2025		Fiorentina	W	1 - 0

12

13

Position

SEASON TOTAL

CAG AWAY

3

4

6

7

8

11

Last matches

	0 - 0	D	Lazio		21-02-2026
	0 - 2	L	Lecce		16-02-2026
	2 - 0	L	Roma		09-02-2026
	4 - 0	W	Verona		31-01-2026
	1 - 2	W	Fiorentina		24-01-2026

	2 - 0	L	Roma		09-02-2026
	1 - 2	W	Fiorentina		24-01-2026
	3 - 0	L	Genoa		12-01-2026
	2 - 2	D	Cremonese		08-01-2026
	1 - 2	W	Torino		27-12-2025

Lorenzo Lucca’s difficult season shows no sign of turning around at Nottingham Forest, raising serious questions about whether the English club will take up their option to sign him permanently this summer, and leaving Napoli facing a potentially costly headache.

The Italian striker joined Forest on loan in January, with the Premier League side holding an option to purchase him outright for €35 million.

On current evidence, that clause looks unlikely to be exercised, according to the latest reports from CalcioMercato.

Lucca has managed just 120 minutes of Premier League football since arriving in England, starting only once, against Wolverhampton, and has done little to impress in two Europa League appearances against Fenerbahce, being substituted at half-time in the second leg to widespread criticism from supporters online.

Napoli could pocket €35m from Lucca sale but Forest buyout unlikely

It represents a continuation of the miserable form that defined his six months under Antonio Conte at Napoli, where the chemistry between player and manager never materialised. Despite costing the club close to €40 million following his impressive 12-goal campaign at Udinese, Lucca started just four Serie A matches for Napoli and is perhaps best remembered for his red card during the 2-6 humiliation in Eindhoven.

Conte raised no objection to his January departure, and Forest’s managerial instability, four different managers already this season, has done Lucca no favours either.

Should Forest decline to trigger the purchase option, Napoli will find themselves with a striker who still has a contract until 2030 but whose market value has fallen considerably.

Recouping anything close to their original investment looks increasingly improbable, leaving the club with a significant financial problem to solve in the summer window.

A simmering dispute between Atalanta and Borussia Dortmund has spilled into the open, with the Italian club having filed a formal complaint to FIFA over the departure of teenage forward Samuele Inacio.

The 17-year-old, son of former Atalanta and Napoli striker Pià, left Bergamo for Dortmund in 2024 without any transfer fee or compensation changing hands, with reports via CalcioMercato.

Under FIFA’s regulations governing the movement of minor players, clubs are not entitled to a fee when a player under the age of 18 moves abroad, and Dortmund used that framework to acquire the youngster without entering into any financial agreement with Atalanta.

Atalanta upset with Dortmund over nature of Inacio deal

It is a move that has left a bitter taste in Bergamo. Atalanta CEO Luca Percassi has made his feelings abundantly clear, pointedly snubbing the UEFA lunch at both the home and away legs of the clubs’ recent European encounter in what amounted to a public statement of displeasure. His words on the matter were measured but damning.

“For me it is a very serious matter that Dortmund never made themselves available to sit down with us to clarify and resolve this issue, which we have consequently taken to FIFA,” Percassi said.

“From a legal standpoint, we are convinced we are in the right. From a moral standpoint, I will let everyone judge for themselves.”

Atalanta’s grievance centres not on the legality of the move, which technically complied with FIFA’s minor player regulations, but on what they see as a failure of professional courtesy and good faith from the German club.

The fact that Dortmund never sought to negotiate any form of agreement, however informal, is what appears to have caused the most damage to the relationship between the two clubs.

Inacio himself is considered one of the more exciting young Italian talents of his generation, making the manner of his departure all the more frustrating for Atalanta, who had invested significantly in his development.

With the FIFA complaint now formally lodged, the dispute looks set to run considerably longer before any resolution is reached.

Reports in Italy claim that two sides in Serie A are interested in a potential deal for Manchester United and former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro once his Old Trafford tenure comes to an end. 

Reports Casemiro of interest to two top Serie A clubs

Casemiro, who turned 34 earlier this week, is into the final few months of his contract with Manchester United and the club have already confirmed that the five-time Champions League winner will depart at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. 

The 82-time Brazil international is expected to have plenty of offers come the end of the season, and according to Friday’s reports, he could have offers from Serie A on his desk as well. 

According to reports from Calciomercato.com, both Milan and Juventus could be poised to make an offer for Casemiro in the summer. 

Friday’s report claims that Milan will be interested with or without Luka Modric, who has an option to extend his one-year contract in San Siro by a further 12 months. Modric and Casemiro lined up together 259 times for Real Madrid. 

It has also been suggested that Juventus could be interested in a move for the veteran midfielder this summer. Calciomercato claims that Juventus will focus on quality rather than quantity in the summer transfer window, but Casemiro is a player with undoubted and invaluable experience at the top of the European game. 

The issue for the Serie A sides in question is Casemiro’s potential salary demands given that he currently earns a reported net salary of €18m per season in the final year of his Manchester United contract. 

He would need to take a pay cut in order to facilitate a move to either Milan or Juventus, with suggestions that both clubs would be more likely to offer a two-year deal with wages in the region of €5m-€6m per year. 

Aside from the Serie A interest, Casemiro is also expected to have offers from Brazil and from the Saudi Pro League.

Liverpool and Manchester United could sign Adam Wharton for £60-65 million because of a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ with Crystal Palace.

Adam Wharton is expected to be on the move this summer, amidst interest from some of the biggest clubs in the country. Liverpool are set to rival Manchester United in the race for his signature. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the English international could be available for a bargain fee thanks to a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ with Crystal Palace.

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Adam Wharton could leave Crystal Palace this summer

Wharton has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the Premier League with his consistent performances for the Eagles. The 22-year-old defensive midfielder has placed himself on the radar of some of the biggest clubs in the country.

While his contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2029, he could be on the move this summer. The interest in his services remains intact despite a dip in form this season. The Eagles are concerned about his form, as they believe interest from other top clubs could have altered his focus.

Crystal Palace are hoping to keep hold of him beyond this season, and they are also working on a potential renewal. However, there is a gentleman’s agreement which could allow him to join a Champions League club for £60-65 million if a new deal isn’t agreed.

More Stories / Latest News

‘Gentlemen’s agreement’ could help Liverpool and Man United seal £60-65m summer move

Feb 27 2026, 19:00

Arsenal sent strong €100 million message amid links with Serie A phenomenon

Feb 27 2026, 18:30

“Keep an eye on that”: Journalist confirms Liverpool want to sign “very, very good player”

Feb 27 2026, 18:00

Premier League duo to battle for Wharton

Liverpool and Manchester United are the biggest contenders for his signature. Wharton is quite high on the Merseyside club’s wishlist, as they look to bring in someone who can compete with Ryan Gravenberch for a place in the XI.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are looking at him as someone who can replace Casemiro in the long-run. With the Brazilian leaving the club at the end of the season, Manchester United could go all out for Wharton this summer.

The post ‘Gentlemen’s agreement’ could help Liverpool and Man United seal £60-65m summer move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have suffered a massive blow in their pursuit of Inter Milan attacking sensation Pio Esposito.

Since returning from his loan spell at Spezia Calcio, Pio Esposito has managed to break into the Inter Milan first team. He has established himself as an important part of their plans, and his impressive rise has resulted in interest from Arsenal. But according to a report from LInterista, Inter Milan have no intentions of negotiating his departure, not even for €100 million.

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Pio Esposito has seen a sensational rise

Esposito has come up the ranks at Inter Milan. While he got promoted to their first team back in 2023, the 20-year-old ended up joining Spezia Calcio on a two-year loan deal. Thanks to his impressive performances for the Serie B outfit, he has had an important role at Inter Milan this time around.

He has been involved in 35 matches in the ongoing campaign, racked up over 1,500 minutes, and contributed to 13 goals (7 goals, 6 assists). His impressive performances have helped him break into the Italian national team, and this has also attracted interest from clubs across Europe.

Arsenal are one of the clubs that are keen on his signature. The Gunners are constantly on the lookout for young players with massive potential, and Esposito seems to be an ideal fit for their project. The Gunners are pushing to bring him to the Emirates, but they are unlikely to succeed.

More Stories / Latest News

‘Gentlemen’s agreement’ could help Liverpool and Man United seal £60-65m summer move

Feb 27 2026, 19:00

Arsenal sent strong €100 million message amid links with Serie A phenomenon

Feb 27 2026, 18:30

“Keep an eye on that”: Journalist confirms Liverpool want to sign “very, very good player”

Feb 27 2026, 18:00

Inter Milan won’t sell Esposito

The 20-year-old’s contract at Inter Milan runs until 2030, which means they will be in the driving seat during negotiations and they do not have any intentions of selling him. The Italian outfit won’t even consider a €100 million offer for the youngster.

They consider him an integral part of their long-term plans and want to build a team around him. Inter Milan seem to have a lot of confidence in the youngster and his performances this season certainly back it up. As far as Arsenal are concerned, they will have to look at alternatives, as Esposito is not for sale.

The post Arsenal sent strong €100 million message amid links with Serie A phenomenon appeared first on CaughtOffside.

David Lynch insists Liverpool are keen on signing Bayern Munich star forward Michael Olise, as they look to prepare for life without Mohamed Salah.

Michael Olise has taken his game to the next level since moving to the Bundesliga. Clubs in England have been constantly keeping tabs on him, and quite a few would love to bring him back to the Premier League. According to David Lynch via TEAMtalk, Liverpool are keen on signing the former Crystal Palace star.

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While speaking about Olise’s future on Anfield Index, Lynch said, “I see Olise getting mentioned in the comments as well, and I think I’d keep an eye on that.

“That’s an interesting one. Particularly Bayern being interested in Gakpo, you know, potentially maybe something in that, but he will want to come back to the Premier League at some point, and he’s a very, very good player who Liverpool have watched for a long, long time, even pre-Palace.

“So, that’ll be an interesting one if he’s on the market.”

Olise made quite a name for himself while playing for Crystal Palace. Quite a few top clubs in England were after his signature in the summer of 2024, but Bayern Munich managed to win the race with a €60 million (then £50m) offer.

Liverpool want Michael Olise to replace Salah

The French international has taken his game to the next level since joining the German giants. In the ongoing campaign, the 24-year-old has 13 goals and 25 assists in 35 outings. Liverpool are one of the clubs that have been keeping tabs on him, and would love to bring him back.

The Reds have had him on their radar for years now, and with Mohamed Salah’s long-term future uncertain, they are looking at Olise as an ideal long-term replacement. While they would love to have him on their roster, prising him away from Bayern Munich won’t be easy.

More Stories / Latest News

‘Gentlemen’s agreement’ could help Liverpool and Man United seal £60-65m summer move

Feb 27 2026, 19:00

Arsenal sent strong €100 million message amid links with Serie A phenomenon

Feb 27 2026, 18:30

“Keep an eye on that”: Journalist confirms Liverpool want to sign “very, very good player”

Feb 27 2026, 18:00

The Reds will have to break the bank for Olise

The German club has no intentions of negotiating his departure, and with his contract running until 2029, they are in complete control of his future. A potential transfer could cost in excess of €114 million (£100m).

Despite the difficulty in securing his services, Lynch believes the 24-year-old firmly remains on FSG’s radar. More importantly, he feels the player would want to return to the Premier League at some point in his career. As things stand, however, a move this summer looks very unlikely.

The post “Keep an eye on that”: Journalist confirms Liverpool want to sign “very, very good player” appeared first on CaughtOffside.