According to a report from L’Équipe, Olympique de Marseille’s Arsenal loanee Ethan Nwaneri (18) has a clause in his loan fee which is tied to the amount of minutes he plays. It means that the more he plays for Marseille, the less the French club pay Arsenal for the loan. Yet, the Englishman hasn’t started a single game for OM in two months, with L’Équipe citing a “persistant impression of nonchalance.” Nwaneri arrived in January, seduced by the idea of playing under Roberto De Zerbi, but only several weeks into his loan the Italian would depart the club in chaotic circumstances. The Englishman scored on his debut with Marseille, before becoming victim to changes around the club and losing credit with new manager Habib Beye. Nwaneri logically would have expected to start against Monaco in the absence of Mason Greenwood, but Beye opted for Hamad Junior Traoré. It is expected, according to the French paper, that Nwaneri will no doubt return to Arsenal at the end of the season following the end of his loan at Marseille.GFFN | George Boxall

There was a degree of concern for Luis Enrique, despite Paris Saint-Germain’s progression to the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League at Liverpool’s expense on Tuesday night. Nuno Mendes was forced off in the first-half of the 2-0 win at Anfield, whilst Désiré Doué was forced off early in the second half.

Speaking post-match, Luis Enrique sought to allay fears regarding the severity of the injuries sustained by the PSG duo. As per a report from RMC Sport, the Spaniard was right not to be too fearful. Doué suffered a hit to the knee after being pushed towards the advertising boards by Dominik Szoboszlai. He will undergo treatment for the next two days before returning to first team training.

Mendes, who is suffering from discomfort in his right thigh, is also expected to undergo treatment and work in the gym for the next two days. Like his PSG teammate, he could be back in first-team training before the end of the week. Les Parisiens face Olympique Lyonnais on Sunday night.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

It appears as though a big rebuild is "inevitable" for Aberdeen this summer as the club continue to slide down the Scottish Premiership table.

Having won the Scottish Cup less than 12 months ago, the Dons now find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle.

They sacked manager Jimmy Thelin earlier this season and spent months searching for his replacement, with Peter Leven taking charge in the interim period, and eventually ended up with Stephen Robinson - who had been down the road in Paisley the whole time.

Thanks to their 2-0 win against Hibernian at the weekend, Robinson's side now have a bit of breathing space between themselves and the relegation play-off spot. But the Dons could find themselves right back in it if they fail to beat Kilmarnock, currently in 11th, next weekend.

If the Dons can maintain their Premiership status for next term, The Times' football correspondent Michael Grant is expecting a hefty rebuild at Aberdeen.

"They did spend a lot of money last summer," he told the BBC's Scottish Football Podcast.

"There was a lot of hope and expectation on the back of the Scottish Cup win and big investment in players. The recruitment was terrible, really. They got so little return for their money and continue to get so little return for it. So I think a big summer rebuild is inevitable.

"No club can afford to sign what turn out to be poor players or players that aren't a good fit for the club but especially when you're spending a lot of money.

"Aberdeen don't have limitless resources. If they're spending money, they need to get a return for it.

"Darren Mowbray's come back as the head of recruitment and he was probably the most successful head of recruitment they've had in recent years.

"It was him that got Bojan Miovski and Ylber Ramadani, and guys that made them a lot of money when they sold them.

"They've churned through heads of recruitment as well over the last three, four, five years."

Many of the top men's college basketball transfers are off the board as rosters are starting to shape up ahead of the 2026-27 season.

But transfer portal rankings are hardly an exact science, and best fit is usually a better indicator for future success than anything.

While Yaxel Lendeborg, a first-team All-American in 2025-26, was rated the No. 1 player in the portal and delivered Michigan a national championship, UConn center Tarris Reed Jr., one of the best players of the NCAA Tournament in 2026, was rated outside the top 75 as a portal prospect in 2024 by 247Sports' Composite.

Top 40 available players: College basketball transfer portal rankings

The deadline to enter the transfer portal is April 21, and impactful players are still entering the market each day.

Here's a look at our best fits so far of players that have already committed in the 2026 transfer portal:

10 transfers that are perfect fits in college basketball

Stefan Vaaks, Illinois

Former Providence guard Stefan Vaaks will fit right in with Illinois, which is developing a reputation for European standouts.

The Estonian will likely join a starting lineup that consists of Andrej Stojakovic, David Mirkovic and Tomislav Ivisic, who all averaged double figures last season. A 6-7 sharpshooter, Vaaks averaged 15.8 points with 2.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game last season for the Friars as a true freshman.

Illinois had a void at guard this offseason after Keaton Wagler declared for the NBA Draft, and in steps Vaaks.

Dedan Thomas, Houston

Houston is almost assuredly losing star guard Kingston Flemings, a projected top-10 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. It'll aim to replace him with LSU transfer Dedan Thomas, one of the best playmaking guards available.

USA TODAY's No. 16 overall transfer, Thomas averaged 15.3 points with 6.5 assists per game last season for the Tigers, and is poised to take over as Houston's lead ball handler with Flemings and multi-year starter Milos Uzan out of the picture.

Houston has been fueled by its guard play under coach Kelvin Sampson, going from Marcus Sasser and Jamal Shead to LJ Cryer and Emanuel Sharp to Flemings, Uzan and Sharp in consecutive seasons. Thomas will be asked to do a lot next season as Houston loses three starting guards.

David Punch, Texas

David Punch emerged as one of the best defenders in the country last season at TCU, and averaged 14.1 points with 6.8 rebounds and two assists in a do-it-all role for the Horned Frogs. It was a surprise when he entered the portal, but less of a surprise when he chose the hometown Longhorns.

Punch is from Harker Heights, Texas, less than an hour drive from Austin, where Texas' campus is located. That, paired with Texas' need for a frontcourt mate next to returning center Matas Vokietaitis made for a perfect fit for second-year coach Sean Miller.

Punch averaged 1.9 blocks and 1.3 steals per game last season, and gives Texas a feisty defender that can guard multiple positions.

Najai Hines, UConn

UConn needed a center to replace Tarris Reed this offseason, and it found a fit that made perfect sense. Not only did Najai Hines show flashes in the Big East last season as a true freshman, but he also did so at coach Dan Hurley's alma mater, Seton Hall.

Hines stats don't jump off the page — 6.5 points with 5.5 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game — but he came on late in the year for the Pirates and was a blue-chip high school recruit, rated as a top-10 center in the 2025 class, per 247Sports' Composite.

Hines is huge, listed at 6-10, 265 pounds. Hurley and the Huskies will look to develop him similarly to how they did with Reed after he transferred from Michigan.

J.P. Estrella, Michigan

Similar to fellow national championship opponent UConn, Michigan also has some holes to fill in its frontcourt with Yaxel Lendeborg off to the NBA Draft and center Aday Mara likely following suit.

The Wolverines will look to replace some of that production with former Tennessee forward J.P. Estrella, who averaged 10 points with 5.4 rebounds per game last season. The 6-11 redshirt sophomore scored seven points with seven rebounds against the Wolverines in the Elite Eight.

Coach Dusty May has been masterful at developing his frontcourt, and Estrella will be the latest to learn from the national championship-winning coach.

Collin Chandler, BYU

It didn't take long for former Kentucky guard Collin Chandler to choose his next destination, as he committed to BYU, his hometown school, shortly after entering the transfer portal. He was formerly committed to BYU as a high school prospect, and took two years off after high school to fulfill a church mission in Africa.

Chandler averaged 9.7 points with 2.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists last season, also shooting 41% from 3-point range. He's also a perfect fit at BYU offensively, as the Cougars have finished No. 9 and No. 12 in adjusted offensive efficiency each of Kevin Young's seasons as head coach.

BYU also has a void at wing, with AJ Dybantsa likely off to the NBA Draft and Richie Saunders out of eligibility. He'll be one of BYU's top options next to returning guard Rob Wright III.

Neoklis Avdalas, North Carolina

New North Carolina coach Michael Malone's first portal recruit was one of the most intriguing available players in former Virginia Tech guard Neoklis Avdalas.

The 6-9 true freshman averaged 12.1 points with 3.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game last season for the Hokies, and showed flashes of being a potential NBA lottery pick with his unique playmaking and shooting ability at his size. Avdalas was on the NBA Draft radar after only his second career game, as he scored 33 points with five rebounds and six assists in an overtime win over Providence in November.

Avdalas is expected to take a huge step forward as a sophomore, especially under Malone's tutelage.

PJ Haggerty, Texas A&M

Former Kansas State guard PJ Haggerty ranked fourth nationally in 2025-26 averaging 23.4 points per game. Now at his fifth school in five seasons, Haggerty joins an offense tabbed as "Bucky Ball" under second-year coach Bucky McMillan, who runs a fast-paced offense predicated on taking shots early and often.

Sounds like a strong fit for one of the best pure scorers in college basketball.

Haggerty is also from Crosby, Texas, a Houston suburb that's less than a two-hour drive from College Station, Texas.

Derek Dixon, Arizona

Derek Dixon entered the portal after North Carolina hired Malone as its next coach, despite starting 16 games as a true freshman. His landing spot? Arizona, which made the Final Four in 2025-26 and has a glaring need at guard.

Arizona loses Big 12 Player of the Year Jaden Bradley, its starting point guard, to graduation, and also loses leading scorer Brayden Burries, a surefire first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

Dixon averaged 6.5 points with 2.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game last season with the Tar Heels, and now finds himself as coach Tommy LLoyd's likely starting point guard.

Jaquan Johnson, Iowa State

Iowa State coach TJ Otzelberger has done work in the transfer portal since taking over the program, but his point guard in four of his five seasons has never changed.

Bradley transfer Jaquan Johnson will be tasked with replacing four-year starter Tamin Lipsey, one of the most accomplished players in school history. He has the means to do so, averaging 16.9 points with 3.9 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game last season despite being undersized at 5-11.

With Otzelberger's portal track record, Johnson should fit quite nicely with Iowa State, who has to replace Lipsey, leading scorer Milan Momcilovic and All-American Joshua Jefferson.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College basketball transfers who are best fits with new teams

Student-athletes across Cape Cod are facing increasing mental and emotional strain, and a group of local clinicians and coaches are stepping up to help. The Cape Cod Athlete Mental Health Summit is scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. May 5 at Barnstable High School.

The event is designed to offer practical tools and expert guidance to support athlete well-being, according to a community announcement.

The pressures of competition, college recruitment, injury, burnout and balancing academics are taking a toll on local high school and college athletes. The summit aims to address these challenges and provide support for athletes, coaches and parents.

“On Cape Cod, sports are a huge part of our community and identity,” said Christine A. Mosher, LICSW, event organizer and local psychotherapist. “But behind the scenes, many athletes are struggling with anxiety, pressure, and self-doubt. This event is about giving our local athletes—and the adults who support them—the tools to navigate those challenges in a healthier way.”

The event will feature a panel of experienced professionals and local leaders, including:

• Christine A. Mosher, LICSW – psychotherapist and mental wellness coach
• Jonathan F. Katz, PhD – psychologist and performance coach
• Olivia Papakyriakos, LMHC, LPC – mental performance coach
• Jacob Szulak, LICSW – mental skills coach
• Yvonna Press – coach, Sandwich varsity girls soccer
• Geoff Worrell – coach and sports mental health advocate

Together, they will address key issues impacting athletes at all levels, including:

• Performance pressure and expectations in youth and school sports
• Body image and eating disorders in athletics
• Injuries, athlete identity and the psychological toll of being sidelined
• The evolving role of parents and coaches in supporting mental health
• How to foster a positive, healthy and sustainable sports culture

The event is open to current and former athletes, parents, coaches, athletic trainers and anyone involved in the Cape Cod sports community.

With increasing awareness around athlete mental health at both the local and national level, this summit aims to bring those conversations directly to the Cape Cod community, creating a space for education, connection and meaningful change.

Registration is open on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cape-cod-athlete-mental-health-summit-tickets-1985160863582.

This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com: Cape Cod athlete mental health summit May 5

Inglewood, Calif. – After enduring aches, swarming defenses and a shooting slump, Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry walked proudly through the Intuit Dome entrance tunnel.

The Warriors just secured a 126-121 win over the LA Clippers on Wednesday in a Play-In tournament that at least extends their post-season hopes for two days. As a 10^th seed, the Warriors will face the No. 7 Phoenix Suns on Friday just for the right to face the NBA’s defending champions (Oklahoma City Thunder) on Sunday in a first-round series.

This represents a far cry from the Warriors’ previous dominance when Curry delivered them five NBA titles in seven Finals appearances. No matter. Curry sparked nostalgia with a dynasty-like performance to delay the franchise’s possible crossroads. He finished with 35 points while shooting 12-for-23 from the field and 7-for-12. Hence, Curry’s unleashed his emotions as he walked toward the Warriors’ locker room.

“Come on!!” Curry yelled with the kind of fury he normally reserved for the NBA Finals.

Moments later, Warriors coach Steve Kerr sat at the podium. He scoffed at any concern that the 38-year-old Curry was either jeopardizing his future or wasting his time to return for four regular-season games and the NBA Play-In tournament after missing 27 games with a right knee injury.

“This is why Steph came back. Everybody out there who thought Steph should’ve taken the rest of the year off,” Kerr said, trailing off before pounding the table. “This is what he does. This is who he is. If he can compete, he’s going to compete. It was just incredible to watch.”

It sure was.

After shooting only 2-for-9 from the field in the first half, Curry rebounded with a 10-for-14 clip in the second half. Curry helped the Warriors overcome a 13-point deficit by scoring 11 points in the final 9:27. Among those key plays: Curry made a 3 that gave the Warriors a 120-117 lead with 50.4 seconds left.

“When you have any time of chance or hope to extend our season, I wanted to be out there and experience it,” Curry said. “You don’t imagine it going like it did tonight. But I’m proud of how we all fought.”

After laboring through a 37-45 regular-season record amid season-ending injuries to Jimmy Butler (right ACL) and Moses Moody (ruptured tendon), the Warriors showed team-wide championship DNA.

Though Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard scored 21 points on a 8-for-17 clip, Warriors forward Draymond Green helped limit Leonard from deep (1-for-6) while forcing five turnovers. Warriors forward Kristaps Porzingis added 20 points and five assists with a strong perimeter and post presence both as a scorer and facilitator. Warriors center Al Horford added 14 points while shooting 5-for-8 overall and 4-for-7 from 3. Not a coincidence that Curry (four), Green (four), Porzingis (one) and Horford (one) have all won NBA titles. The Warriors also saw their young players thrive in a high-stakes game, including Gui Santos (20 points) and Brandin Podziemski (17 points).

Just like during the Warriors’ dynasty run, however, everything circles back to Curry. It starts with his play with his gravitational pull, his shooting and strong decision making. It also extends to Curry’s resiliency with overcoming a sluggish start.

“It does everything to set the tone,” Green said. “Because when the head of the snake is locked in like that and everything is going wrong for him and he stayed dialed in and continuing to push forward, no one else is allowed to drop their head. You’re going to watch this guy who has nothing to play for. If he goes home today, he’s Steph Curry. Nothing’s changing that. But when you watch him go through what he’s going through, you watch him deal with the tough start. And his head is held high. The next shot, in his mind, is the best shot. Well, everybody else feeds off of that. So man, I’m blessed to play with him for 14 years. He’s a special, special guy. He’s a special player, and that’s why he’s been the face of this organization and this organization has done this.”

That’s why Kerr told his players afterwards that he felt just as proud of his team’s latest accomplishment as when they competed for NBA titles. The Warriors have enough experience and self-awareness to realize a Play-In tournament win doesn’t warrant a champagne bath. It still warrants emotions, though.

Beforehand, Kerr conceded the possibility that the Warriors were facing finality with the remaining pieces of their championship fabric. When the buzzer sounded, Kerr and Green hugged each other for keeping that fabric intact. No wonder Curry remained hellbent on returning so long as it didn’t compromise his long-term health.

“Watching what he was going through was tough because you knew that all he wanted was to be out there,” Green said. “He’s coming in every single day putting the work in and, for a large amount of time, not getting any results. Most people would quit, especially when you’re in a position like that. Most people would be like. ‘I’ll get myself right and I’ll do it again next year.’ But that’s never who he’s been. That’s why this organization has been able to go from worst to first. When you have a guy like that, that the only thing that matters is the next day and not the next year, just the next day. Everyone else falls in line. Everyone else has a responsibility because of the responsibility that he takes on. This is why he wanted to get back. Because when he’s on the floor, you always have a chance.”

Curry carried that same attitude even during his in-game hiccups He labored through finding enough open looks from deep. He struggled to finish at the rim while absorbing contact. He became annoyed with not receiving whistles amid physicality both at the rim and from beyond the perimeter.

Throughout his 17-year NBA career, Curry always believes the next shot will fix a slump or missed calls. That concept played out against the Clippers. In the third quarter, Curry scored 16 points on a 6-for-8 clip. In the fourth quarter, Curry added 11 points on a 4-for-6 mark.

“I love everything about Steph. But what I’ve seen happen tonight and over and over again is that he can be in the middle of a very average game. And then all of a sudden, it clicks,” Kerr said. “He’s so poised out there. Having a rough go, he just keeps going and keeps going. All it takes is one. You can feel it.”

So can Curry, obviously.

“I’m just having fun. I think the muscle memory and the reps and the work you put in your entire life comes out at the right times,” Curry said. “I always talk about earning and deserving the confidence you play with because of the work that you put in. and not being afraid of failure, missed shots and turnovers. You just keep going. Then the shot goes in, there’s a rhythm to it. You keep finding yourself open. Then you enjoy the environment.”

That explains Curry’s execution to his clutch 3 and his subsequent reaction.

With the game tied at 117 with 58.5 seconds left, Curry and Green ran what appeared to be a pick-and-roll. Instead, Curry threw a behind-the-back pass to Green only for him to dish the ball back with a dribble handoff. Though the Clippers’ Kris Dunn and Brook Lopez still chased Curry, he had enough space to pull up for 3 and make the shot.

“Steph is one of the smartest players,” Green said. “He doesn’t get credit for it because he’s so good. He shoots the ball better than anyone. He dribbles the ball as good as anyone. So oftentimes people don’t value his IQ.”

Plenty value Curry’s joy, though. After releasing the shot, Curry fell into a handful of Clippers courtside fans. Once the ball dropped into the basket, Curry bantered with the fans before flexing his arms and yelling.

“I was just playing around with one of the guys. I actually landed on his lap,” Curry said, smiling. “He was making sure I was good. Then we had a little back and forth. Very pleasant, but it was fun.”

Hence, Curry’s postgame emotions. He stressed that “we’re not satisfied” with just one Play-in Tournament victory. The Warriors are aware they need to ensure enough energy and execution against Phoenix just to secure a first-round series against the Thunder. The Warriors just want a chance, though. Because they still have Curry capable of playing at his best, they will gladly keep playing that hand.

“This is what you work all year for, all summer, all offseason,” Curry said. “We’re not guaranteed a series yet. But these nights make everything worth it.”

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali insists Max Verstappen “understands the bigger picture” surrounding the sport’s new era despite the Dutchman’s repeated criticism of this year’s regulations.

Four-time world champion Verstappen said after the last race in Japan that he is considering quitting F1 at the end of the season, such is his dissatisfaction with new engine and chassis regulations, which have changed the nature of qualifying and racing.

The impact of the new power unit, which sees an almost 50/50 split between internal combustion and electrical power, has divided opinion. Drivers are inconveniently having to ‘lift-and-coast’ at the end of straights to harvest energy, while thrilling on-track battles have been labelled “artificial.”

Verstappen has labelled the new regulations as “anti-racing” and “like Formula E on steroids” – and F1 CEO Domenicali admitted that Verstappen’s voice does need to be considered in talks. Meetings are taking place ahead of the next race in Miami on 3 May to discuss alterations to the rulebook.

“He [Max] is the best driver, he’s a world champion, multiple world champion, and his voice has to be listened to,” Domenicali told Autosport.

“With Max, we have spoken many, many times. So we understand that I understand his comments and he understands the bigger picture. Even today, he has been in a meeting where he was very keen to give suggestions. I don’t want to fall into the trap of trying to create an antagonism because that’s not me. It’s not the way we want to see that.

“He knows his voice has a weight and he needs to respect that weight. Sometimes, some people can take it the wrong way and this is something we should not allow to happen.”

While Verstappen has a £50m-a-year contract with Red Bull until the end of 2028, it is understood the 28-year-old could negotiate an early exit from his deal if he is not in the top two in the world championship by the summer break. Currently, he is ninth in the standings, 51 points off second-placed George Russell.

"Privately, I'm very happy,” he said in Japan. “You also wait for 24 races. This time it's 22. But normally 24. And then you just think about is it worth it? Or do I enjoy being more at home with my family? Seeing my friends more when you're not enjoying your sport?

"I can easily accept to be in P7 or P8 where I am. Because I also know that you can't be dominating or be first or second or whatever, fighting for a podium every time. I'm very realistic in that and I've been there before. I've not only been winning in F1.

"But at the same time when you are in P7 or P8 and you are not enjoying the whole formula behind it, it doesn't feel natural to a racing driver. Of course, I try to adapt to it, but it's not nice the way you have to race. It's really anti-driving. Then at one point, yeah, it's just not what I want to do.

"And of course you can look at it and make a lot of money. Great. But at the end of the day it's not about money any more because this has always been my passion."

Ohio State is staying plenty active when it comes to evaluating new names, and on Wednesday the 2028 class saw a new offer extended when Kentucky native John Paul Carrico took to his social media to share the Buckeyes were now in the mix.

A 6-foot-8, 295 pound offensive tackle prospect, Carrico is just high school sophomore, but already has incredible size for what the next level covets. He checks in as the No. 262 player nationally and 19th best tackle per On3. Offers from the likes of Alabama, Kentucky, Louisville, and others to his name early on, the Buckeyes now in play should only increase the attention paid his way.

Earning his offer while on campus, Ohio State has certainly left a lasting impression and should use this to their advantage. Just one state away, John has ample opportunities to continue making stops in Columbus to see the program and Tyler Bowen and if any return trip is in the works, that will tell how interested both sides of this recruitment are.

Buckeyes gaining momentum with 2027 OT

Ohio State looks to be in solid position for offensive tackle target Jimmy Kalis. Thanks to multiple Crystal Ball predictions in favor of the Buckeyes, the current 2027 class may be that much closer to adding their latest commitment.

Things are trending in the right direction which would give the position it’s fourth member in a class shooting for both depth and top-tier talent.

A 6-foot-6, 280 pound Pennsylvania native, Kalis is the No. 308 player nationally and 31st best at his position per the 247Sports Composite. Nearly 50 offers to his name from every major program in the country, schools such as Clemson, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Texas, and plenty of others are in the mix, but it’s been Ohio State to see their name called this week by both Steve Wilftong and Alex Gleitman both of On3.

It’s been a little bit since Ohio State landed a commitment for their 2027 class, but those days could be numbered real soon.

Four-star DB back target sets commitment date

A player the coaching staff has already seen this spring, Florida native Zayden Gamble would be a major addition to Ohio State’s 2027 class. A St. Thomas Aquinas product, the Buckeyes have had plenty of success with the Fort Lauderdale prep powerhouse, but it’s been a bit since they landed their latest Raider.

Gamble took to social media on Wednesday to share this commitment plans for July 16. Ohio State is in his top four with Florida, Miami, and Notre Dame as the other finalists. Set to visit Columbus once again later this summer, Zayden’s official begins on June 5.

Miami will host him in May with both Florida and Notre Dame with the final two visits. Typically the goal is to get the last visit, but even going second, this staff should never be doubted.

A 5-foot-11, 190 pound safety, Gamble is the No. 193 player nationally and 18th best at his position per the 247Sports Composite. Just a few months before the decision is made, Ohio State’s staff will continue their efforts on why Columbus is the best place to be.

Fortunately, they’ll have another NFL Draft first round selection in the coming weeks to further prove their case.

Quick Hits

Making the short trek from Youngstown, Ohio State was able to play host to in-state native Anthony Blalock Jr. A 6-foot-5, 305 pound offensive tackle prospect in the 2028 class, Blalock has early offers from the likes of Florida State, Indiana, North Carolina, Penn State, and plenty more along with the Buckeyes.

This year’s NCAA Gymnastics Championships will feature a “smorgasbord” of talent. But on Thursday, April 16, the Elite Eight will be carved into a final four. Though there are predictable favorites and de-facto underdogs, this year’s NCAA Championships are anyone’s game.

The nation’s top eight programs will face off in National Semifinals on Thursday, April 16 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. The top two teams from each semifinal will advance to Saturday’s national championship. The bottom two will leave Texas empty-handed.

Thursday’s semifinals will also determine the individual NCAA champions in the all-around and on the four events. Winners will be named and awarded at the conclusion of the second national semifinal.

When I asked former ESPN Commentator and Olympic medalist Kathy Johnson Clarke for her prediction, her response was simple: “Whoever has the most fun finding their perfect meet together is going to win.”

Read up on the contenders, their strengths – and their star contributors, below. Full scheduling and broadcast information can be accessed here.

Semifinal I: Thursday, April 16 at 4:30 p.m. on ESPN2

No. 2 Florida Gators

_{Last Title: 2015 (3 total) | Best Finish: First}

After trailing LSU in the national rankings for weeks, the surging Florida Gators claimed the second seed in the championship. Few teams have looked stronger in the final postseason stretch than the Gators squad. The Gators have posted five-straight scores of 198+, the golden standard in NCAA Women’s Gymnastics. In March, the Gators held off both Oklahoma and LSU for the SEC Championship and are chomping at the bit to clinch their first national title since 2015. With arguably the strongest roster in recent history, great expectations weigh on the Gators.

No. 3 LSU Tigers

_{Last Title: 2024 (1 total) | Best Finish: First}

The No. 3 LSU Tigers won the program’s first NCAA title in 2024 and arrive in Fort Worth looking for their second in three years. Though they came in as the No. 1 overall seed in 2025, the Tigers’ title-defense was cut short in the semifinals. However, with star sophomore Kailin Chio as their leader – the number one gymnast in the nation – title number two feels within reach. The Tigers will look to Konnor McClain, Kaliya Lincoln, and Lexi Zeiss for key contributions as well. First, they’ll have to get past two hungry SEC foes in the semifinal round.

No. 5 Georgia GymDogs

_{Last Title: 2009 (10 total) | Best Finish: First}

The Georgia GymDogs are back and better than ever. After years of uncharacteristic results, the historic program has returned to its former glory under the leadership of Co-Head Coaches Cécile Canqueteau-Landi and Ryan Roberts. Led by an elite trio of All-SEC freshmen with big, difficult gymnastics, the GymDogs are underdogs – but underdogs whose bite often matches their bark. Georgia was one of just seven programs to hit the 198 mark this year, a number that could put them in title contention for the first time since 2009.

No. 6 Arkansas Razorbacks

_{Last Title: Never | Best Finish: Fifth}

Much like the Gymdogs to their east, the No. 6 seed Arkansas Razorbacks are flourishing in 2026. The Razorbacks cruised to Fort Worth after spectacular routines from Joscelyn Roberson, Morgan Price, and freshman Allison Cucci. Though the program is an outlier contender for the title, the team’s mindset runs counter to the narrative. “If we show up and are at our best, there’s absolutely no reason why we can’t compete with UCLA or Oklahoma,” Head Coach Jordyn Wieber said last week. Led by a coaching staff of two Olympic gold medalists and one Olympian, the Razorbacks bring confidence and power to every event.

MORE FROM FORBESKailin Chio Is Setting A New Standard In NCAA GymnasticsBy Caroline Price

Semifinal II: Thursday, April 16 at 9 p.m. on ESPN2

No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners

_{Last Title: 2025 (7 total) | Best Finish: First}

The defending national champion Oklahoma Sooners are the predictable favorite. The Sooners have arrived at nationals as the No. 1 seed at every championship since 2014 – except one: 2025. That didn’t matter for the Sooners, who went on to win their seventh NCAA title. However, the rock-solid Sooners will have to weather the most formidable challenges they have faced in recent years. K.J. Kindler’s squad is known for responding to disappointment with a vengeance, so the Sooners’ loss at March’s SEC Championships should instill fear in their competition. As the No. 1 vault squad in the nation, the Sooners should look to dial in their landings to gain an advantage over the field.

No. 4 UCLA Bruins

^{Last Title: 2018 (7 total) | Best Finish: First}

Though the competition is heavy with teams from the Southeastern Conference, Big Ten Champion No. 4 UCLA comes in seeking revenge. In 2025, the Bruins finished as the national runner-up to Oklahoma. In 2026, they seek the program’s eighth title in Jordan Chiles’ final collegiate season. Chiles is also expected to contend for the all-around title, and fans anticipate a battle between Chiles and Chio. The Olympic gold medalist joined forces with freshman stars Tiana Sumanasekera and Ashlee Sullivan, helping UCLA to its second-straight conference championship. This week in Texas, they hope to climb to the top of the podium once more.

No. 7 Stanford Cardinal

^{Last Title: Never | Best Finish: Third}

Stanford is another program on the rise. The No. 7 Cardinal punched their ticket to Fort Worth in dramatic fashion, edging out ACC foe Clemson by just .075 in the all-important regional final. Though the Cardinal have struggled to put forward a complete meet in recent weeks, they are capable of a top finish if the stars align. In February, they posted a massive score of 198.150, the second-highest in school history. Known for their prowess on bars and floor, the Cardinal will need to deliver on all four events to contend for the program’s first national title.

No. 8 Minnesota Golden Gophers

^{Last Title: Never | Best Finish: Sixth}

The Golden Gophers are in Fort Worth for a reason – not sheer luck. After a stellar team effort, the No. 13-ranked Minnesota Golden Gophers edged out No. 5 Alabama and 9-time NCAA Champion Utah to qualify for the NCAA Championship, ending Utah’s 49-year streak of championship play. Like the Gators, the Gophers have been peaking at the right time, putting up the fourth-highest score in program history in mid-March. Though their title hopes are small, the program arrives as the eighth seed and looks to improve on its program-record finish of sixth place.

MORE FROM FORBESMust-Watch Routines At The 2026 NCAA Gymnastics ChampionshipsBy Caroline Price

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

FC Barcelona’s Champions League stats – FC Barcelona
With the European adventure now over, here’s a look at the key stats from Barça’s Champions League campaign:

Lamine Yamal bids farewell to the Champions League with another record – FC Barcelona
Despite the painful defeat in the quarter-finals, Lamine Yamal ended his Champions League campaign setting yet another record. The teenager becoming the youngest ever player to record a combined total of 10 goals and assists in the same season.

VLOG | Atlético v Barça – FC Barcelona
Our cameras captured everything before, during and after a game in which Barça came close, but not close enough, to a heroic comeback.

Laporta: “The refereeing was a disgrace, unacceptable and intolerable” – Mundo Deportivo
The president-elect of FC Barcelona harshly criticized the refereeing after their European elimination.

Lamine’s message of commitment after Champions League elimination: “A promise is always kept” – Mundo Deportivo
The young winger posted a powerful message on his social media: “We’ll bring her to Barcelona.”

Henry points out Barça’s big problem: “They desperately need top-level defenders” – Mundo Deportivo
The former Arsenal and Barça striker warns of a structural flaw after the elimination at the Metropolitano: “It’s not just a bad night, it’s a fundamental problem.”

First decisions after the Champions League knockout: Barça accelerate the signing of Bastoni – SPORT
Barcelona wants to finalize the deal before June, otherwise they will have to explore other options.

Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli has reached an agreement with the club on a new contract, with only the signatures missing.

Damien Comolli and the rest of the Bianconeri management have been incredibly busy on the renewal front since February. They are adamant about securing the club’s main pillars.

Kenan Yildiz was the first to pen a new long-term deal. The Turkish star was followed by Weston McKennie, who was running on an expiring contract.

Last week, it was Luciano Spalletti’s turn to extend his deal, pushing back the deadline until June 2028.

Manuel Locatelli agrees new Juventus contract

In recent weeks, Juventus opened talks with Dusan Vlahovic and his entourage. However, Comolli has recently revealed that the Serbian’s fate will be decided at the end of the season, but hinted that others could sign their renewals earlier.

Apparently, the Juventus CEO was referring to Locatelli, who is all set to sign a new contract.

According to Sky Sport Italia reporter Giovanni Guardala (via Gianlucadimarzio.com), the agreement between the 28-year-old and the club has been reached, and the signatures will arrive on Friday, along with the official announcement.

The captain’s current contract is valid until June 2028, but previous reports had expected the new deadline to be June 2030. Locatelli should also earn a pay rise, putting him on par with McKennie (€4 million per year).

Locatelli’s growth over the years

Locatelli is a youth product of Milan, who rose to prominence after scoring a sensational goal against Juventus icon Gianluigi Buffon in 2016.

The midfielder then sharpened his tools at Sassuolo, before making the move to Turin in August 2021.

The Italian international has been a regular starter since his arrival at Continassa, but he has endured several highs and lows.

However, Locatelli has managed to make an important leap in quality this season, and he’s now considered the lynchpin in the middle of the park, playing an integral role in the buildup, while simultaneously acting as a shield in front of the backline.

While the elimination from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid will hurt, FC Barcelona are on track to win the La Liga title.

Indeed, the Blaugrana are already nine points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid, with seven matches left to be played in the season.

Real Madrid have already dropped points in their last two matches in the league, and should they do so in the upcoming games, and Barça keep stacking up the wins, the Catalans may even be crowned champions even before the Clasico next month.

Real Madrid refuse to give a guard of honour

However, interestingly, according to Marcos Benito of El Chiringuito TV, Real Madrid have decided not to give Barcelona a guard of honour in case they are confirmed as title-winners before the Clasico.

Their reason for doing so is because of the ‘Negreira case’, the journalist states.

On the cusp of winning La Liga. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid have taken a strong stance against Barcelona with regard to the Negreira case, trying to prolong the investigation into the matter despite there being no evidence of wrongdoing against the Blaugrana.

Their continued stance has led to a complete breakdown of institutional relations between the two clubs.

And, now, if the aforementioned report turns out to be true, it will only add more tension to the already-upset relationship between the two arch-rivals.

Barcelona host Real Madrid on May 10 at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Currently nine points clear of the Spanish capital club, the Blaugrana would need to build a 13-point lead over them to be crowned champions before that match, ensuring that goal difference or head-to-head outcomes become irrelevant.

Brian Rolapp has responded to being asked about reports the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia are about to pull their funding of LIV Golf, and commented on whether there will be a pathway back to the PGA Tour for the likes of Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau.

After years of turbulence for the game’s landscape, it would appear that LIV Golf’s days are now numbered.

It was late on Tuesday that Ryan French reported on social media that he had been told that LIV was on the verge of shutting down.

What did not help prevent the rumour mill from going into overdrive was LIV having to cancel press conferences on Tuesday due to apparent technical issues.

Brian Rolapp reacts to reports over LIV Golf’s future

Players did speak to the media on Wednesday ahead of this week’s event in Mexico City. But the Financial Times then dropped the bombshell report that the PIF plans to end their funding of LIV.

It just so happened that PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp was set to be interviewed by Trey Wingo as the news emerged.

And speaking on Wingo’s podcast, Rolapp issued his reaction to the reports.

“I’m like everybody else, I’m just reading things as they come across. I don’t know what’s going on. It would be premature for me to speculate, so I don’t have a lot to say. I just see the same stories everybody else sees. As I’ve said, we’re pretty focused on what we’re doing here and how we’re making the PGA Tour better, so that’s clearly where my focus is,” he said.

Rolapp responds to being asked about the futures of Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau

Obviously, it is not nice that it appears almost inevitable that jobs will be lost. While it is hard to have any sympathy for the majority of the players who already boasted incredible riches, it is definitely sad that staff behind the scenes are going to suffer.

For the large majority of golf fans, the big question now concerns what happens next for the likes of Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau. The pair were among the players who had the option to return to the PGA Tour through the Returning Member Program earlier this year.

Rolapp insisted at the time that there were no guarantees that the offer would be on the table again. But he remains consistent that he is not prepared to cut off his nose to spite his face.

“I’ve always said on this subject I’m interested in doing whatever makes the PGA Tour better. Fans want the best players playing together. I’ve always said that from day one when I took the job. Having said that, I don’t know what the circumstances are. Once there’s clarity we’ll cross that bridge, but we’re clearly not there yet,” he said.

It is going to be fascinating to follow LIV if they are indeed going to make it until the end of the season. It cannot be easy for the players to concentrate when there are real doubts over whether they will play next year.

Understandably, many fans will be calling for extremely harsh penalties before they can return to the PGA Tour’s biggest events.

There is no question now that the PGA Tour seems to hold all of the cards.

Gautier Lloris (31) is weighing up his future. The defender, the younger brother of France’s most-capped player, Hugo Lloris, will be out of contract at Le Havre AC in the summer. 

Since joining in 2022, Lloris has become a key player for Le HAC. However, he is aware that the contract that he is about to sign will be his final big one before being considered an “old player” in his words. As a result, despite Le Havre’s offer of a new deal, Lloris is hesitant to respond, at least for now. As per a report from L’Équipe, the Frenchman is the subject of enquiries from MLS clubs. He could, therefore, follow the same path as his brother, who currently plays for LAFC.

The centre-back will wait for Le Havre’s fate in Ligue 1 to be decided before making any decision. For Les Ciel et Marines, Lloris’ exit would be a further blow, given that another of their centre-backs, Arouna Sangante, will join Sevilla at the end of the season.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Paul Tait’s team got back to winning ways and had something to smile about for the first time in a while as they overcame a determined Warrington Rylands on Monday evening at Walton Hall Park in the semi-final of the Liverpool Senior Cup.

They lined up as below with 22 year old Reece Welch captaining the side as the senior player and seeing the welcome return of George Pickford in goal following his loan at Southport. A big plus also was the return from injury of the classy central midfielder Harvey Foster (pictured in team-sheet) and a second successive outing for Joel Catesby the winger who suffered a terrible injury last October.

The Toffees got off to a bright start but had Pickford to thank in the first few minutes for a smart save. It wasn’t long however until the returning Foster showed composure under pressure to pick out Loney who played in Catesby on the left wing. His measured cross was lashed home first time by young Shea Pita to give the Blues the lead in the 13th minute, 1-0.

That lead was doubled 4 minutes later when, after Olayiwola was fouled, quick thinking by Foster saw him find Luca Davis (seen in main picture) 30 yards from goal. No doubt buoyed by his recent goalscoring exploits, Davis thundered a 22 yard shot high into the net, a stunning effort for 2-0.

Warrington Rylands hit the bar and soon afterwards, after Everton failed to clear a corner, Hough scored another world-beater shot past Pickford, 3 very good goals and the scoreline now 2-1.

In the 2nd half, Catesby put over a teasing cross from the left wing and centre forward Loney did the sensible thing and teed up the unmarked Akarakiri to volley home neatly from 6 yards, 3-1.

The Cheshire side simply would not lie down and accept defeat however and their attacker Burton beat Blues’ defender Aled Thomas to an inviting left wing cross to power home and make it 3-2.

Blues defender Thomas showed his true skills shortly afterwards when he perfectly read and intercepted a Warrington breakaway and carried the ball fully 60 yards before setting up Olayiwola. Although there was a call for a penalty from the move as Olayiwola went to ground, it was probably the right call not to give it as contact was minimal. Final score 3-2, Everton through to the final.

Tait spoke to the Everton site after the game –

“I thought it was a good game. It was a good test for us against a men’s team and we stood up to the physical challenge well. They were a threat on the counter, but we had a lot of the ball and made some good chances.

“The first two goals in the first half were outstanding. The play down the side of the pitch and then Joel’s [Catesby] cross which was finished off brilliantly from Shea [Pita].

“That was nice to see and then we scored a screamer from 30 yards. That’s two from two, he’s just reminded me there! The boys looked like they enjoyed the game.”

About Catesby, he added –

“He was lively in the first half, wasn’t he?”

“He was direct, he looked a real threat. It is great having him back. I said it after the Birmingham game last week, after that horrible injury, we were all there, weren’t we, when it happened? It didn’t look good at all that night at Bradford and now we’re delighted to have him back.

“There’s more to come from Joel, so we’ve just got to keep building these minutes up.

“Unfortunately, the season’s going to come at a time when he’s probably chomping at the bit to keep playing, but it’s just good to have him back fit.”

The Blues, in their quest to retain the trophy, will find out which Runcorn team they will play, either Town or Linnets after their semi final on Sunday afternoon.

STORRS – A new era begins for the UConn men’s basketball team.

For the first time in four years, Alex Karaban will not be filling the four spot for the Huskies next season. And, as loaded as the transfer portal is, it won’t be so easy to replace a 150-game starter who scored 1,880 career points and made 292 3-pointers on his way to becoming the program’s all-time winningest player.

As difficult as it will be to fill in the production – 12.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game on 37.4% shooting from 3 over his four-year career – the more significant challenge in replacing the captain will be supplanting everything he did without the ball in his hands. Dan Hurley has long credited Karaban for his role in making the Huskies’ complex offensive scheme successful, along with his coach-like presence on the court and off of it.

That responsibility will largely fall on the shoulders of the returning players. As of Wednesday afternoon, that is only Jayden Ross, who has the loyalty aspect down, and Silas Demary Jr., who is more than capable of becoming the vocal leader and face of the program. UConn is still awaiting decisions from Jaylin Stewart, Braylon Mullins and Solo Ball, along with Jacob Ross.

Dan Hurley updates where UConn’s 2026-27 roster stands amidst active transfer portal

“Everyone that returns has got to do more to replace Alex’s maturity. What he did for the culture, that guy. … I hear (ESPN broadcaster) Fran Fraschilla talk about culture warriors when he does Houston games, that’s exactly what he’s talking about. The person that puts pressure on everyone around them to work harder, be about the right things. The people that are going to return, Jayden Ross (and Silas Demary Jr. who’ve) already made the decision, or more people that are going to decide this week … those people have got to carry on what AK was able to do there,” Hurley said.

“And then you got these freshmen coming in that, you expect a Junior County, you expect a Colben Landrew to come in here and continue to add to your culture. You expect the transfers that we bring in, too, to be our type of guys, to be UConn men,” he said. “But the people that are going to return and the people we’re gonna bring in, they’re being told while they’re visiting and while we’re recruiting them that this is what we do here. And if this isn’t what you’re about, then we should just end the visit here.”

Of the incoming freshmen, Landrew is a big-bodied 6-foot-6 wing who was ranked around the top-30 in the 2026 high school class. His natural position would be at the three, potentially replacing Mullins if he goes to the NBA Draft, though it is difficult for a freshman to step in as a day one starter. County, a 6-4 two-guard ranked in the top 50, could also find himself in the rotation.

Jayden Ross, 6-7, took on and thrived in the sixth-man role down the stretch of the season and throughout the NCAA Tournament, providing a spark with his energy, particularly on the defensive end and in transition. He picked up a mentor in Andre Jackson Jr. after the Huskies’ regular-season finale in Milwaukee, where Jackson plays for the Bucks. He could provide a similar impact – with some more 3-point shooting ability – in his senior season, whether that means starting or a large role off the bench.

Stewart, also 6-7, has filled into the starting lineup 12 times over the last two seasons with players injured. Will his game take a leap and allow him to earn more opportunity with the Huskies on a consistent basis? Or will he look to move on for a potential full-time starting role somewhere else?

UConn will likely be looking to the portal for Karaban’s replacement. And the task won’t be as simple as finding another 6-8 shooter who can move without the ball and have a strong feel for what Hurley wants to run on offense.

Dom Amore: UConn, Dan Hurley dive into the ‘wild west’ with plenty of weapons to reload the Huskies

“It doesn’t (need to be a 3-point shooter). Who returns kind of determines the skill set (we’re looking for). So a lot of what you’re doing now is you’re preparing scenarios, if this player returns or that player returns, or these two players return. … You’re working scenarios,” Hurley said.

UConn, with more holes to fill in its front court given the departures of Tarris Reed Jr. (eligibility) and Eric Reibe (transfer), reportedly hosted Seton Hall center Najai Hines on Tuesday. Duke forward Nikolas Khamenia, a former top-20 prospect and a potential Karaban replacement, was on campus Wednesday. Khamenia had a smaller role than expected in his freshman year with the Blue Devils, averaging 5.7 points and 3.3 rebounds in 19.8 minutes per game off the bench. He made a 3-pointer and had seven points, an assist, a block, and two rebounds against the Huskies in the Elite Eight.

UConn could also potentially have Syracuse forward Donnie Freeman in for a visit on Friday, according to reports. Freeman, a 6-foot-9 rising junior, is one of the more sought after players in the portal after he averaged 16.5 points and 7.2 rebounds for the Orange last season, though he only shot 30.2% on 3.7 3-point attempts per game.

The tricky part for the Huskies is figuring out who is coming back, and what needs will be left to address. At this point, they have to sell recruits on the idea of a role on a roster that remains far from put together.

“I just keep saying to myself, ‘This is what everyone’s dealing with,'” Hurley said. “And then just being so behind everyone else, and the fact that we’re not rushing our players to decide what they’re doing, I think it’s the right thing, it obviously puts us up against this deadline over the weekend into Monday, but our guys deserve it. Even if it puts us in a little bit of a delicate situation, I think you want to give a group that did such a great job for you the grace of not rushing a big decision.”

SNY | Chelsea Janes: For the first time since the 2025 postseason, Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe played a competitive baseball game. It happened to be with the Yanks’ Double-A affiliate, the Somerset Patriots, as he starts his rehab assignment after offseason labrum surgery. He said he felt great and called it a big milestone.

Regarding the next steps in his recovery process, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said that he will play minor league games until at least next week. After resting on Wednesday, he will return for five-plus frames on Thursday and Friday, then take a day off Saturday, and play again on Sunday. After Monday’s offday, he’ll likely go to Scranton to continue his rehab. “Probably four or five games next week, then we’ll kind of evaluate and see where we’re at from there,” Boone said.

In the postgame following the Yanks’ exciting win on Wednesday, Boone dropped another nugget: Gerrit Cole will be joining Volpe on the rehab trail with Somerset. It’ll be his first pro start since underdoing Tommy John surgery in March 2025. Obviously he has a long way to go to build up, but it’s a significant milestone for the ace on his journey back to a big-league mound.

NY Daily News | Gary Phillips: After sending Yerry De Los Santos back to Triple-A late on Tuesday, the Yankees announced the promotion of Angel Chivilli on Wednesday to take a place on the roster and in the bullpen. He has pitched 8.1 perfect innings with Scranton so far after a rough spring. The 23-year-old had a 6.18 ERA over 73 MLB games in Colorado in the last two seasons, 2024 and 2025.

“We think there’s more room there for his secondary to become really good pitches for him,” Aaron Boone said. “For him, it’s about controlling the strike zone and command. If he can control counts, he’s got some swing and miss with his secondary stuff. The fastball is big. He’ll be in the mid-to-upper-90s with his fastball, but he needs his secondary.”

New York Post | Mark W. Sánchez: If you thought Ryan McMahon’s recent bunt attempt was bizarre, well, it appears to be part of a broader organizational focus on bunting. Before the Yankees’ official round of batting practice on Tuesday, José Caballero, Cody Bellinger, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Trent Grisham, and Ryan McMahon took turns to lay down bunts against a pitching machine. What does this mean for the Yankees and their 2026 approach? We don’t know, but Austin Wells successfully got on base with a bunt on Wednesday.

FanGraphs | Dan Szymborski: Even though he hasn’t played every day, Ben Rice is terrorizing the league already. Szymborski marvels at his 70 percent hard-hit rate and says he’s here to stay. “If you’re a fan of another team in the AL East, as I am (Baltimore Orioles), you’ve probably been waiting for Rice to come crashing back to Earth. Given how he’s hit in 2026, however, I fear we’ll have to pin our collective hopes on other sources of Yankees misfortune. Ben Rice’s power is real and it is spectacular,” he explained.

Yahoo Sports | Jake Mintz: This is a wonderful tribute to the 103-year-old Rachel Robinson, Jackie’s widow, with a touching article praising her legacy on his day. Shared are stories of how they met, how they fell in love, and how she helped one of the most prominent figures in baseball history through thick and thin.

“Throughout Jackie’s most tumultuous times, Rachel was a rock, there by his side as he broke baseball’s color barrier,” Mintz wrote. It’s definitely worth a read.

49ers host Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor on pre-draft visit
“Proctor posted strong production in the 2025 season, earning an 86.1 overall offensive grade, an 81.1 run-blocking grade, and an 84.2 pass-blocking grade. The 6-foot-7, 352-pound tackle allowed 21 pressures and two sacks across 611 pass-blocking snaps. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Proctor ran a 5.21-second 40-yard dash with a 1.84-second 10-yard split, along with a 32.5-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-1 broad jump.” 

49ers hosted Oregon OL Alex Harkey on pre-draft visit
““NFL teams believe he has true 5-position versatility,” Melo noted.” 

49ers host Oklahoma LB Kendal Daniels on pre-draft visit
“In 2025, Daniels started every game at the hybrid “Cheetah” position, finishing with 53 tackles, including nine for loss. He also added three pass breakups and one fumble recovery.” 

49ers hosting ‘prime Deebo Samuel’-type receiver ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
“The wideout is coming off his most productive season in 2025, recording 69 receptions for 937 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns. His breakout campaign helped Indiana secure a College Football Playoff National Championship, earning him second-team All-Big Ten honors.” 

49ers mock draft roundup: Kiper, Brugler, others address San Francisco’s long-term future
“I don’t think the 49ers are going into draft night stressing that they must find a long-term solution at left tackle,” Brugler wrote. “But if the right player falls in their laps, it would make sense for them to go that direction — and Lomu could be that player. He is a work in progress (in several areas), but his athletic footwork and body control form a great foundation.” 

Brugler also has the 49ers selecting former Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard in Round 2.…Kiper wrote, “The legendary left tackle is turning 38 during training camp this summer, meaning San Francisco has to think about the future no matter what. 

“Iheanachor started 31 games in college, has long 33 7/8-inch arms, and is quick out of his set. But he’s also relatively new to football, having never played before 2022. He could use a little time to develop before eventually becoming the guy.”

San Francisco’s next selection comes at No. 58 overall, where Kiper addresses a pressing need along the defensive front. He projects the 49ers selecting former Illinois defensive end Gabe Jacas to bolster a pass rush that struggled with consistency last season.” 

49ers host WR Colbie Young, DT Tyler Onyedim on pre-draft visits
“Young totaled 116 receptions for 1,437 yards and 13 touchdowns across four collegiate seasons split between Miami and Georgia. 

Onyedim recorded 138 tackles (20.5 for loss), 5.5 sacks, an interception, one pass defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery over 53 games at Iowa State and Texas A&M.”  

49ers’ need to upgrade safety position requires bold 2026 NFL Draft strategy
“Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (Toledo) is a lanky safety (6-foot-3, 201 pounds) with good ball skills and is very good at punching the ball out, as he forced nine fumbles in his college career. 

Others who might be of interest to the 49ers in the second round are Keionte Scott (Miami), A.J. Haulcy (LSU) and Bud Clark (TCU). San Francisco’s second-round pick comes at No. 58 overall. 

Cole Wisniewski (Texas Tech) was not invited to the NFL Scouting Combine, but he is squarely on the 49ers’ radar. Wisniewski (6-3, 219) visited San Francisco during the pre-draft process. He registered eight interceptions during the 2023 season at North Dakota State.” 

Who could fill the 49ers’ offensive line need? Ten options, with help from ‘The Beast’ (paywall)
“Let’s say six offensive linemen get drafted before the 49ers pick, and that they pass on Utah tackle Caleb Lomu (who visited the team facility Tuesday), Arizona State tackle Max Iheanachor and Texas A&M guard Chase Bisontis at No. 27. If so, Pregnon would be the best option left in the second round. He made stops at Wyoming, USC and then Oregon to wrap up a six-year career as a first-team All-American at left guard in 2025. 

His large hands (11 inches) aren’t great yet, but he moves well and has some power at 6 feet 4 and 314 pounds. He’s a glass-eater who would start from Day 1.” 

‘Low-maintenance’ Mike Evans is a different kind of 49ers WR1 (paywall)
“Rick Stroud, the Buccaneers beat writer at the Tampa Bay Times since 1990, is familiar with prima donna pass-catchers: He covered Johnson for four seasons. In Stroud’s 12 seasons covering Evans, he appreciated his “all-out” approach to all aspects of his position, including blocking and clearing out the middle of the field by running go routes on which he wasn’t even a secondary target. 

“We know in the NFL there’s a lot of divas,” Stroud said. “There’s a lot of guys that come back to the huddle and they’re always open. And I’m sure Mike felt that way at times, too. But Mike was never that guy. It’s rare to talk about ‘unselfish’ at a position that is intrinsically selfish. But that’s who Mike is. He truly is.” 

Stroud noted that Evans is fiercely proud. And he was deeply disappointed last year when injuries forced him to miss nine games and prevented him from passing Rice with a 12th straight 1,000-yard season. But he said Evans’ primary focus has been winning, pointing to the bargain contract he signed with the 49ers as the latest evidence.”

The 2026 NFL Draft is less than 10 days away as the New England Patriots continue the process of finishing their board. Things will look quite different for the team this draft picking 31st overall after back-to-back years selecting in the top-five. With good talent along the interior of their defensive line, New England may just look for depth in the late round unless a top option becomes the best player available on their board.

So, with that said, let’s take a look at some of the prospects that might make sense for the Patriots at the position.

Patriots’ current interior defensive line situation

After inking a historic four-year contract in free agency last offseason, Milton Williams combined forces with Christian Barmore to form a formidable one-two punch along New England’s defensive line. While Williams remains locked into place after a strong season, there is perhaps a bigger long-term question with Barmore.

The 27-year-old, who had his legal case dropped, saw an additional $10 million become guaranteed on his contract this offseason that likely secures his place on this year’s roster. But Barmore, who managed a knee injury last season, has no guaranteed money remaining on his deal past this season.

Behind the top duo, Cory Durden was one of New England’s best finds last season as he played a key rotational role up front and impressed in the process. Leonard Taylor III also flashed as a late-season add while the last year’s fourth-round pick Joshua Farmer will rejoin the rotation after ending the year on injured reserve. Eric Gregory and Jeremiah Pharms Jr. also remain on the depth chart after appearing in games last season.

Patriots NFL Draft fits along the interior defensive line

Kayden McDonald (Ohio State): A dominant run defender up front, McDonald led the FBS with 30 runs stops last season as he was a consensus All-American and the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year. Still just 21 years old and an early declare, McDonald has the makings of becoming an elite run stuffing nose tackle but does not provide much in terms of rushing the passer. The Patriots held him on a visit. | Consensus ranking: 31

Domonique Orange (Iowa State): “Big Citrus” is a big-time nose tackle who’s impact goes beyond the box score as his power and play strength allow him to dominate the point of attack and absorb doubles in the run game. His production was relatively quiet with just 0.5 TFL last season while his pass rush plan is limited relying on his bull rush. | Consensus ranking: 67

Kaleb Proctor (Southeastern Louisiana): An undersized defensive tackle, Proctor makes up for it with his athletic ability to shoot gaps and win upfield. His production increased each season — ending with a career-year with 13 TFL and 9.0 sacks — but he did not face elite competition in the FCS. The tools and motor make him a strong gamble in a similar way Milton Williams was out of Louisiana Tech University. | Consensus ranking: 112

Dontay Corleone (Cincinnati): “The Godfather” is a stocky, space-eating defensive tackle at 6-foot, 340 pounds. His frame creates natural leverage while he was plenty of play strength at the nose tackle position. Corleone has an extensive medical history which included a battle with blood clots in 2024. | Consensus ranking: 128

Tim Keenan III (Alabama): After a productive 2024 season, Keenan missed the first three games last season after undergoing tightrope surgery in August and was not able to build upon his success after returning. He too is a stocky interior player with good strength as a run defender. A team captain at Alabama and favorite of Nick Saban, a team may bet on Keenan returning to his 2024 form a year removed from injury and receive good value. | Consensus ranking: 140  

Nick Barrett (South Carolina): Barrett is a well-built defensive tackle who was very productive last season with 42 tackles and 6 TFL. His power in the run game is paired with some ability as a pass rusher due to his athleticism. Barrett was a team captain in his first full season as a starter in 2025 after spending four years in a rotational role. | Consensus ranking: 152

In addition to those players, Caleb Banks (Florida) and Christen Miller (Georgia) are fellow options atop the draft. Late-round depth pieces then include Bryson Eason (Tennessee) and DeMonte Capehart (Clemson) in addition to interior pass rushers such as Rayshaun Benny (Michigan), Zane Durant (Penn State), and Tyler Onyedim (Texas A&M).

Former Bournemouth defender Steve Cook says he backs the club's hierarchy to make "the right decision" when selecting Andoni Iraola's successor.

After three historic seasons on the south coast, Iraola will depart at the end of the campaign and the Cherries will have to find a replacement for one of the most highly-rated coaches in Europe.

"Football clubs now prepare for this," Cook told a special BBC Radio Solent programme reaction to the news.

"They have a style of play and sign the players for that.

"Bournemouth will have a plan. Iraola's former assistant at Rayo Vallecano Inigo Perez would fit perfectly because there is a very similar philosophy at that club and they are similar in the way they play.

"You read things on social media with the likes of Frank Lampard and Kieran McKenna being linked but they are both in for promotions themselves right now.

"The hierarchy at the club will know. They will have planned for the worst and they still have a few weeks and months to finalise the plan.

"I back them to make the right decision. Bournemouth is a very attractive job, let's be honest. It's a Premier League club, consistently pushing in the right direction.

"Things are exciting with the training ground and the plans. I think it's an amazing job for anyone and I back the board to get the right man in."

Listen to the full programme below or on BBC Sounds

In a random twist of two sports, Darts world champion Luke Littler recently named VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller as his “favorite German football player”. In an exclusive interview with Bundesliga, the former Bayern Munich midfielder was asked about the teenage sensation.

"That is great,” Stiller answered with delight when he was asked how he felt about Littler’s compliments. “Because he is also my favourite darts player. He is currently the best in the world, and when he says something like that, it is always nice. I have been to Ally Pally (a sports venue in north London). I really like darts, so it is great to hear something like that.”

In the same interview with DAZN in which he called Stiller his favorite player, the Englishman added, “Casemiro is leaving us. (Stiller) Come to United! We need help.”

The 25-year-old said it’s a pleasure to hear that, although it might be a bit annoying. “It’s part of the business that rumours arise, and things are said. You should not deal with it too much, and just do your own thing."

Stiller added he’s now more capable of dealing with the pressure that comes with being a public figure. "When you are more in focus, more things can hit you and affect you. At the beginning of my career, it affected me more. Now I have learned that it should not really matter to me.

“What is important is what the club thinks, what the coach thinks, and what my teammates think. That is the only thing that matters to me now. Because of social media, Instagram, Twitter, and everything else, everyone can form an opinion and say what they think. Everyone can act like an internet warrior, but you should not listen to that. It does not affect me personally."

Former two-time MVP Stephen Curry endured an up-and-down 2025-26 regular season. Although he performed, Curry was only able to suit up in 43 games due to various injuries, most notably a knee injury that sidelined him for over two months.

That said, you wouldn't have been able to tell Wednesday night as the 38-year-old put on a classic performance, scoring 27 of his 35 points in the second half as the Warriors came from down 13 to earn a five-point victory.

Following the game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr addressed those who suggested Curry should have been sidelined for the remainder of the season after the injury.

“This is why Steph came back. Everyone out there who thought Steph should take the rest of the year off…*bangs table*… this is what he does. This is who he is. If he can compete, he is going to compete. And it was just incredible to watch.”

With the victory, the Warriors advance to a second elimination game Friday, facing the Phoenix Suns on the road. The winning team will advance to the NBA Playoffs, earning the No. 8 seed and a matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Steve Kerr on Steph Curry's clutch performance: 'This is what he does'

Liverpool Lead Race for Marcos Senesi as Defensive Rebuild Looms

Liverpool’s summer plans are beginning to take shape, and one name is quietly moving towards the top of the shortlist. According to reporting from iPaper, Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi is edging closer to an Anfield switch, with rivals circling but seemingly hesitant.

Senesi Situation Signals Summer Movement

“Another certain Bournemouth exit this summer is that of Marcos Senesi, with suitors being lined up to capture the cultured defender on a free transfer.”

There is something revealing in the phrasing. “Certain exit” speaks less of speculation and more of inevitability. Senesi, now 28, has reached that point in a player’s career where timing matters as much as talent. A free transfer only sharpens the appeal.

With Andoni Iraola preparing to leave Bournemouth, instability at the club has accelerated decisions. “Senesi’s representatives have been busy trying to secure the 28-year-old his next move, after notifying Bournemouth he will not be signing a new deal on the South Coast.”

Liverpool, crucially, are not just interested. They are positioned.

Defensive Demands at Anfield

“The i Paper understands Liverpool are the most likely destination, as they look to add some much-needed fresh faces to their central defensive arsenal.”

This is less about opportunity and more about necessity. Virgil van Dijk, still elite, has been overextended. “Skipper Virgil van Dijk, who turns 35 in July, has had to play 49 times already this campaign, due to lack of alternatives.”

Photo: IMAGO

That figure tells its own story. Liverpool’s defensive depth has thinned, and reliance on experience has become a risk rather than a strength. Questions around Ibrahima Konate and injuries to Giovanni Leoni only reinforce the need for reinforcements.

Senesi offers balance. Left sided, composed, and comfortable in possession, he fits a profile Liverpool have leaned on in recent years.

Rivals Step Back from Pursuit

“Chelsea and Manchester United had been keeping tabs on Senesi, but The i Paper has been told neither are currently planning to make a move.”

This withdrawal matters. Manchester United are chasing a different profile, with Nottingham Forest’s Murillo reportedly higher on their list. Chelsea, meanwhile, are recalibrating towards physicality.

It leaves Liverpool in a position of clarity rather than competition.

Interest remains elsewhere. Aston Villa, Everton, and even Tottenham are mentioned, though uncertainty surrounds the latter’s Premier League status. Italian clubs Juventus and Roma have already stepped away, citing concerns over his role.

“Juventus had carried out extensive checks but informed his agent recently that they did not believe he would be a guaranteed starter.”

That detail feels significant. At Liverpool, he may not be guaranteed a starting place either, but the pathway appears more defined.

Decision Approaching Fast

“It is understood that Senesi has been offered to most of the clubs in contention to play in Europe but is yet to make a decision on where he goes next.”

Timing now becomes critical. Wage demands could shape the outcome, but Liverpool’s interest looks structured rather than speculative.

In a market where value is increasingly rare, a proven Premier League defender available for free represents opportunity.

And for Liverpool, it feels like one they cannot afford to ignore.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, this move makes sense on multiple levels, even if it lacks the glamour supporters often crave. Senesi is not a headline signing, but he might be exactly what this squad needs.

There is a growing concern around defensive sustainability. Van Dijk remains world class, but asking him to carry such a workload deep into his thirties is not sustainable. Konate’s inconsistency has frustrated, and depth options have not inspired confidence.

Senesi offers reliability. He is Premier League proven, tactically intelligent, and comfortable in a possession based system. For a side that often dominates the ball but has struggled with defensive transitions, his composure could prove valuable.

If Liverpool are serious about evolving, they need players who can step in without disruption. Senesi looks like that type.

The bigger question is what this signals about the wider rebuild. If this is one of several targeted additions, it works. If it is the headline move, concerns will linger.

Either way, it feels like a deal that reflects pragmatism, and perhaps a club trying to rediscover its balance.

Manchester United make the trip down South this Saturday to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in an 8pm kick-off.

The fifth-placed Blues could cut their gap to third-placed United to just four points with a win.

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How have Chelsea and United fared in the lead-up to their meeting?

Both sides will enter the contest in faltering form, with United claiming only four points from their last four matches.

Michael Carrick’s perfect record as interim manager came to an end with a 2-1 away defeat to Newcastle on March 4. Then, despite bouncing back with a comfortable 3-1 win over Aston Villa in the subsequent clash, the Reds went on to drop points by drawing 2-2 with Bournemouth and losing to Leeds United on Monday.

As for Liam Rosenior’s Chelsea side, they are enduring a particularly challenging run, having lost four of their last five games.

Such dismal results saw the London outfit drop out of the Champions League places (the Premier League are confirmed to have five as things stand) and into the Europa League qualification spot, with Liverpool now on track to beat them to the UCL.

Former Reds expect goals in Stamford Bridge outing

Alas, it goes without saying that the encounter is a must-win for the hosts and United – but Paul Scholes and Gary Neville reckon both will be winless come full-time.

The last four Premier League results between the clubs

Instead, the treble-winners believe that United and Chelsea will conjure up a six-goal thriller, resulting in a 3-3 draw.

When reeling off their predictions for matchweek 32 on the latest Stick to Football episode, Neville said: “I think I’m going to… What do you think, Scholsey, a draw? We think [a] draw.”

Scholes responded: “I’m not sure how they’re going to win. I think they’ll draw, though. Big scoring, 3-3.”

“We’re going to go for a draw. We’re going to go 3-3,” the former right-back concluded.

Meanwhile, Ian Wright and Roy Keane decided on a 2-1 home win for Chelsea.

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Emanuel Emegha could make his first start for RC Strasbourg Alsace when they face Mainz in the UEFA Europa Conference League on Thursday night, looking to overturn a two-goal deficit in order to progress to the semi-finals of the competition.

Emegha, whose upcoming move to Chelsea was confirmed back in September, has missed much of the season due to a muscular injury. His long-awaited return came last week during the 2-0 loss in Germany, whilst he also made a substitute appearance in last weekend’s 3-1 win over OGC Nice. However, this will be his first start since making his return. He will captain the side.

Strasbourg will have to continue to live without Aaron Anselmino, who has struggled with injury since arriving, and Joaquín Panichelli, who suffered an ACL injury last month.

Strasbourg likely line-up v Mainz

Mike Penders; Ben Chilwell, Andrew Omobamidele, Ismael Doukouré, Guéla Doué; Valentín Barco, Samir El Mourabet; Martial Godo, Julio Enciso, Diego Moreira; Emanuel Emegha. (L’Éq)

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Chelsea are one of three Premier League clubs interested in Bournemouth’s Junior Kroupi according to reports.

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After a quiet January, the Blues are expected to be busy this summer with both incomings and outgoings, with the squad needing to be upgraded.

Chelsea are thought to be in the market for a centre back, whilst they are also said to want to add another midfielder and attacker.

Chelsea interest in Bournemouth’s Junior Kroupi

Despite once again heavily investing last summer, the Blues need to do the same again with a number of last summer’s signings failing to deliver.

Even though the Blues spent over £90m on Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens, they are said to be looking for an attacker who can play from the left and centrally.

Chelsea have reportedly renewed their interest in Morgan Rogers, although it’s thought a deal for the England international would cost in excess of £80m.

However, Mail Sport have reported the Blues are one of three Premier League clubs interested in Kroupi, with Manchester United and Liverpool also keen.

Chelsea have been previously been linked with Kroupi, who’s scored ten league goals in his debut campaign, nine more than Liam Delap’s managed.

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In other news…

Chelsea are reportedly set to battle Arsenal and Liverpool this summer in the race for Como centre back Jacobo Ramon.

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16th Apr 2026, 08:15am

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Fabrizio Romano: Chelsea will add experience this summer but no revolution expected

16th Apr 2026, 07:30am

Real Madrid have a buy back clause for the 21-year-old who’s impressed under Cesc Fabregas this season, and it’ll be interesting if the Blues make a move, with at least one centre back required this summer.

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

Man City Track Rising Feyenoord Talent Ahead of Summer Window

Manchester City’s recruitment strategy continues to evolve, with a fresh report from Sky Sports highlighting their interest in Givairo Read of Feyenoord.

Photo IMAGO

Right-Back Role Remains Under Review

City have been assessing the right-back position for some time, though no immediate signing is guaranteed. The adaptability of Matheus Nunes has proven influential, with the midfielder’s performances in defence easing urgency in the market.

Photo IMAGO

That flexibility has effectively delayed potential deals, even after strong interest in players such as Tino Livramento and Wesley França. Recruitment decisions appear measured, with City weighing internal solutions against external investment.

Emerging Talent Attracts Elite Attention

Read, 19, has impressed in the Eredivisie and continues to draw attention despite a current injury setback. His anticipated return in the coming weeks will be closely monitored, with City eager to assess his consistency during the closing stages of the campaign.

Photo IMAGO

Competition is expected, with Bayern Munich also tracking his development. City’s interest reflects a broader approach, targeting emerging talent capable of long-term impact.

Squad Evolution Expected This Summer

Beyond defence, City are also exploring midfield and attacking reinforcements. With potential departures on the horizon, this summer could represent a transitional phase in squad building.

As noted in the Sky Sports report, “City are also looking at midfielders and more depth up-front ahead of a summer in which a number of players could also leave the club.” That measured planning continues to define their transfer activity.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The interest in Givairo Read signals forward planning rather than reactive spending. City supporters have seen how patience in the market often leads to better outcomes, particularly when younger players are identified early.

There is also a quiet confidence around Matheus Nunes in that right-back role. While not a traditional option, his technical security and athleticism have added a different dimension. Fans may question whether that is sustainable over a full campaign, though it has clearly reduced the urgency to spend heavily.

The pursuit of younger profiles aligns with the club’s long-term vision. Read fits that mould, a player with high ceiling potential rather than immediate expectation. Competition from Bayern Munich only reinforces the sense that City are tracking elite-level prospects.

Supporters will also recognise the mention of midfield and attacking reinforcements as a sign that change is coming. Squad evolution has been a hallmark of sustained success at City, and this summer could quietly reshape the group again.

Juventus striker Arkadiusz Milik has suffered a new injury setback that will rule him out of the crucial games against Bologna and Milan.

The Polish international had suffered a serious injury in June 2024 that kept him out of action for the entire 2024/25 campaign.

After several surgeries and setbacks, he finally made his return to action last month in the 1-1 draw against Sassuolo.

Milik also had another cameo in the victory over Genoa, but he remained on the bench for the duration of the win over Atalanta last Saturday, with Luciano Spalletti making more reserved substitutions to defend the slender lead.

Arkadiusz Milik picks up muscle injury in Juventus training

The 32-year-old’s return to the pitch has been a breeze of fresh air for Juventus, who have been lacking a genuine centre-forward for months, especially with Dusan Vlahovic still struggling with injuries.

But unfortunately for Milik, he is now set for another stoppage, albeit a relatively brief one compared to the previous.

The official Juventus website announced that the former Napoli and Marseille striker has sustained a Grade II muscle injury after hurting himself during Tuesday’s training session.

“Following a muscle injury sustained in training on Tuesday, 14 April, 2026, Arkadiusz Milik underwent tests at J|Medical this Wednesday morning,” reads the official note.

“Those tests revealed a moderate-grade strain of the biceps femoris muscle in his right thigh. Further tests will be conducted in about 10 days’ time to determine the exact recovery time.”

Milik will surely miss Bologna & Milan clashes

This type of injury often requires a recovery period of around 20 days. Milik will certainly miss this weekend’s home fixture against Bologna, as well as the big clash against Milan at San Siro on April 26.

The striker’s availability remains uncertain for the last four rounds of the season, and will hinge on the results of the new tests that will ensue after 10 days.

In any case, Spalletti has probably realised by now that he can no longer entrust Milik with a prominent role due to his precarious physical condition.

There’s been plenty of noise around Arne Slot after our Champions League exit, but the latest update suggests the club’s stance on his future is far more stable than some might expect.

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Following the 2-0 defeat to PSG at Anfield, which ended our European campaign, questions have naturally been raised about where things go next under the Dutchman.

Ornstein reveals Liverpool’s stance on Slot

Speaking on The Athletic FC podcast, David Ornstein provided a clear insight into how Liverpool’s ownership and decision-makers are viewing the situation.

He said: “All of our information is that FSG, the ownership, the sporting hierarchy at Liverpool – they intend to stick with Arne Slot.

“From the conversations I’ve had – even if there’s no Champions League football – that’s the intention.”

That’s a significant show of backing for the 47-year-old, especially given the context of a difficult run that has seen us exit multiple competitions in a short space of time.

Context matters for Slot’s first season

When you step back and look at the bigger picture, there are clear mitigating factors behind the campaign we’ve had.

Going into the second half of the second leg against PSG, Slot was without key players, and losing Hugo Ekitike early only compounded the issues, leaving us short of attacking options in the biggest game of the season.

John Aldridge pointed out after the match that while PSG deserved to progress, there was a key spell where we could have changed the tie, saying we “needed to score between the 50-70 minutes,” which reflects how close we actually were to shifting momentum.

At the same time, the former Feyenoord boss has already been open about the scale of the rebuild ahead, admitting that “we have to sell to buy” this summer, which underlines that this is very much a transitional period rather than a finished project.

Ornstein’s update reinforces the idea that the club sees this as a longer-term process, and while performances and results need to improve, there’s still belief that Slot is the right man to take us forward into next season.

Celtic take on St Mirren at Hampden Park on Sunday in the weekend’s second Scottish Cup semi-final. Here we look back on the outstanding work of David Potter who documented the story so far between the two clubs in the Scottish Cup…

Celtic Historian David Potter talks us through the rather dramatic story so far when Celtic take on St Mirren in the Scottish Cup…

CELTIC v ST. MIRREN IN THE SCOTTISH CUP – THE STORY SO FAR…

The statisticians may prove me wrong, but I reckon that Celtic have played St Mirren more often in the Scottish Cup than any team other than the old Rangers. I reckon that the meeting in February will be the 25rd time (not including replays) that Celtic and St Mirren have met in the Scottish Cup. The other times were as follows:

1891/92 – St Mirren 2 Celtic 41900/01 – Celtic 1 St Mirren 01901/02 – St Mirren 2 Celtic 31902/03 – Celtic 4 St Mirren 0 (after two draws and an abandoned game)1907/08 – Celtic 5 St Mirren 1 final at Hampden1910/11 – Celtic 2 St Mirren 01924/25 – Celtic 1 St Mirren 0 at Ibrox (after two draws)1925/26 – St Mirren 2 Celtic 0 final at Hampden1929/30 – Celtic 1 St Mirren 31933/34 – St Mirren 2 Celtic 01956/57 – Celtic 2 St Mirren 11958/59 – St Mirren 4 Celtic 0 semi final at Hampden1959/60 – Celtic 5 St Mirren 2 (after two draws)1961/62 – St Mirren 3 Celtic 1 semi final at Ibrox1962/63 – St Mirren 0 Celtic 11964/65 – St Mirren 0 Celtic 31979/80 – St Mirren 2 Celtic 3 (after draw)

1983/84 – Celtic 2 St Mirren 1 semi final at Hampden1990/91 – Celtic 3 St Mirren 01994/95 – Celtic 2 St Mirren 0 at Hampden, but Celtic’s home game2002/03 – Celtic 3 St Mirren 02008/09 – St Mirren 1 Celtic 02012/13 – St Mirren 1 Celtic 22016/17 – Celtic 4 St Mirren 1

So you will see from the above that Celtic have won 18, and St Mirren six.

Editor’s Update – Since then we can add the latest Scottish Cup meeting between Celtic and St Mirren for David…

2022/23 – Celtic 5 St Mirren 1

So that makes it 19 Celtic wins with six for St Mirren.

St Mirren generally have a good record in the Scottish Cup which they have won on three occasions – in 1926, 1959 and 1987. We have some good players in common – Willie Fernie, Frank McGarvey and Frank McAvennie for example, and the late Frank McGarvey had the honour of winning a Scottish Cup medal with both teams.

Jimmy Quinn scored

Twice have Celtic met St Mirren in the final of the Scottish Cup. The first was in 1908 when the really superb Celtic team of that era beat the Buddies 5-1 when everyone of the forward line of Bennett, McMenemy, Quinn, Somers and Hamilton scored except McMenemy – and was universally agreed to have been the best man on the field. Alec Bennett was the forward who scored twice – and then he suddenly jumped ship and went to the underperforming Rangers in one of these moves which defy any rational analyse 115 years later – and no-one understood it at the time either!

The second Cup final between the two of them was a less happy experience for Celtic, who had already won the League by some considerable distance with McGrory scoring the goals and McInally both playing well and behaving himself (a rare combination for Tommy), were expected to win easily.

Alas, the influential but under-rated Adam McLean was injured, Celtic took the game far too easily, lost an early goal and never got back into the game. Rumours abounded that this game had been thrown and that some Celtic players were far too friendly with illegal bookmakers, but the truth was possibly a great deal more mundane, and the defeat was caused by complacency and premature assumptions that they were bound to win. It probably remains the best day in the history of the Buddies.

There were two dreadful semi finals in 1959 and 1962. In 1959 the inexperienced Celtic side simply found the occasion too much for them – yet they had already removed Rangers from the Cup! – and 1962 saw more complacency (they had beaten St Mirren in a League game the previous Monday night) and a little internal bickering when captain Dunky MacKay won the toss and made the strange decision to play against the wind! It was the day that the supporters invaded the park in a misguided attempt to get the game replayed when they were 3-0 down, and all in all, it was one of the darker days in Celtic’s history.

Some of our older supporters will recall 1980’s replay at Love Street when Johnny Doyle scored an extra time winner after centre half Tom McAdam had been sent off; and in recent years, Celtic have won them all except for a bad defeat in 2009 at Love Street, something that was probably the straw that broke the camel’s back for Gordon Strachan as Celtic manager.

1965 saw a good win in the first game played after it had been announced that Jock Stein was on his way while 1925 saw a remarkable stand off. After two games, St Mirren in the last minute were awarded a free kick just outside the box which would have given them the chance to equalise a Jimmy McGrory counter. The trouble was that they thought it should have been a penalty kick, and refused to take their free kick. The seconds ticked away, referee Craigmyle took out his watch, looked at it ostentatiously until time was reached, then picked up the ball and signalled full time. The phrase “cutting off your nose to spite your face” seems to have been invented for St Mirren that day.

But 1903 saw Celtic face St Mirren in the Scottish Cup on four successive Saturdays – a rather unusual occasion – and the results were draw, draw, match abandoned because of bad weather, then 4-0 for Celtic with Johnny Campbell and Sandy McMahon among the goals.

The history of encounters between Celtic and St Mirren in the early days is not always a happy one with tales of crowd disturbances, and Celtic players suffering sectarian abuse from Paisley supporters. Love Street was the most inappropriately named ground of them all, and the bile and hatred from St Mirren fans was worse than what was experienced anywhere else. Rangers and Celtic fans actually got on well in the 1890s; relationships with the likes of St Mirren and a few other provincial clubs, were not quite so happy.

David Potter

Match Report from the 1959 Scottish Cup semi-final…

Post your own thoughts in the comments section below…

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Manchester United have put themselves among a trio of English sides interested in soon-to-be-free agent Marcos Senesi.

Chelsea and Liverpool have also been linked with the Bournemouth stalwart, though only the latter are actively planning a move in the coming weeks, according to the iPaper.

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Senesi favouring Liverpool switch

The report adds that Anfield is Senesi’s ‘most likely destination’, with the Merseyside outfit keen to get their hands on the ‘cultured’ centre-half amid ongoing defensive woes.

They are seeking a Premier League-proven option who can lessen the pressure on Virgil van Dijk’s shoulders to start every single fixture at almost 35 years old, and Senesi, 28, is considered a suitable candidate to do so.

His impending exit will come during yet another summer of changes at the Vitality Stadium, with manager Andoni Iraola also preparing to pull the curtains on his three-year tenure when his deal expires.

Why were United interested in Senesi?

United being among Senesi’s suitors might have surprised some fans due to his age, which also perhaps explains why INEOS are reluctant to materialise their interest with a formal approach to the Argentine.

That being said, there is an acceptance that added depth at the back will be essential if the side secure Champions League qualification; there are already concerns over the fact Michael Carrick will have to deploy a youthful partnership of Ayden Heaven (19) and Leny Yoro (20) for the trip to Stamford Bridge on Saturday following confirmation Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez will be suspended.

(In the 2025/2026 Premier League campaign)

The latter will be unavailable for three games as things stand, pending the outcome of United’s red-card appeal, while Maguire is having to serve a further one-game ban for improper conduct in the aftermath of his dismissal against the Cherries.

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Scholes and Neville expect chaos in Chelsea vs Man Utd with six-goal thriller predicted at Stamford Bridge

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‘Cultured’ Man Utd target’s ‘most likely destination’ now disclosed as he eyes move within the Premier League

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Sharpe says MUFC have an ‘exceptional’ star in their ranks, but he’s playing too safe to take himself to the next level

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There is a debate among Gooners that Mikel Arteta should be sacked if he fails to get Arsenal over the line this season, or even if he does lift the Premier League.

Yet how would the man himself feel if he finished runner-up for the fourth year in a row?

The Manager’s Perspective

I do believe the Spaniard’s love for the Gunners is genuine.

I view the 44-year-old as a decent person.

I think, in his heart, he feels he is in charge of a talented young squad that is so close to doing something special. The issue is that it is like the boy who cried wolf. How many seasons do you give the same person to prove he can win when the lights are shining brightly?

If he starts to hear whispers in North London that his ability is being questioned, he will be very aware that his reputation remains strong elsewhere.

Pressure, Reputation and Loyalty

He would not struggle to find a job, for example, back in Spain.

When Pep Guardiola decides to leave the Etihad, you would assume City would listen to his opinion for his replacement. Why would he not mention his apprentice and friend?

Arteta’s mentor in Manchester is someone whose attention to detail borders on obsessive.

It takes a great deal of mental energy to work in conditions where you are under pressure to win every few days. It is even more exhausting if, after seven years of effort, you only have an FA Cup to show for that work.

He was Mr Wenger’s captain, so he would have watched the Frenchman turn down jobs where silverware would have been more likely out of loyalty. Loyalty, not every supporter gave it in return.

If you are aware that other clubs admire you, ones with a winning culture that do not falter every April and May, then the smart thing to do is to read the room.

If a divide in the fanbase is growing now, what will it be like in 12 months?

Logically, the anxiety will only increase among his players, Gooners will be more impatient, and a manager might begin to wonder, “Is the effort worth the reward”?

Dan Smith

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Chelsea need a player like Manchester United’s Harry Maguire according to former Blue turned pundit Jason Cundy.

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The Blues are set for a busy summer having been quiet in January, with the centre back department likely to undergo a major revamp.

Chelsea arguably need two centre backs, and are thought to want add another midfielder and attacker to their squad.

Jason Cundy claims Chelsea need a player like Harry Maguire

It’s been reported Chelsea are open to signing players with proven Premier League experience this summer, but fans have every right to be sceptical having heard this before.

Jody Morris has cited a lack of leaders and leadership as a major problem, with that issue glaringly obvious in the heart of defence.

Chelsea have paid the price for not signing a replacement for Levi Colwill, who suffered an ACL injury before the start of the season.

The Blues have conceded 34 goals under Liam Rosenior and have kept one clean sheet in the league since he arrived at the start of January.

Chelsea have been linked with Jan Paul van Hecke and Maxence Lacroix, but Cundy feels they need a player like Maguire.

“Maguire has had a brilliant couple of weeks recently, he’s got himself in the England squad, there’s a chance he goes to the World Cup. You go back three months ago, there would have been no chance,” he told talkSPORT.

“There are moments in games where I look for experience, there’s Moises Caicedo and Marc Cucurella but they did not look like the players I know they are. The game ends up getting ripped away from us.

“At times it’s not just on the pitch but also in the dressing room, there’s no figurehead.”

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Blues need to sign a figurehead

Cundy feels Chelsea are lacking a “figurehead” and feels the Blues aren’t a long way off being a top team.

“Bring in a Petr Cech, John Terry, or Didier Drogba into the squad then we are a serious team,” he added.

More Stories / Latest News

“There’s no figurehead” – Jason Cundy claims Chelsea need a player like current Man United star

16th Apr 2026, 08:15am

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16th Apr 2026, 07:45am

Fabrizio Romano: Chelsea will add experience this summer but no revolution expected

16th Apr 2026, 07:30am

“I don’t think currently we are a million miles away; there’s quality there but some of the players have not stepped up.

“But we need a leader throughout the spine of the team,” Cundy said in regards to Maguire.

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

There’s growing debate around Arne Slot after our Champions League exit, but Roy Keane has made it clear that changing manager now would be the wrong move.

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Speaking on Stick to Football via The Overlap, the former Premier League figure weighed in on the situation at Anfield following defeat to PSG.

Roy Keane backs Slot despite pressure

Referencing the wider conversation around Liverpool’s season, Keane said: “Yeah, you can’t be sacking the manager a year after winning the league.

“They’re [the fans] restless. Of course, but aren’t most fans?

“It’s about how they finish the season. They’ve got they got United in a couple of weeks. So, they’re big games emotionally for the fans, aren’t they? But I’ll think they’ll be fine for top five.”

Those comments reflect a more measured view compared to some of the frustration we’ve seen after recent results, particularly with the Reds now out of Europe and under pressure to secure a top-five finish.

Liverpool hierarchy aligned with Keane view

Keane’s stance actually lines up with what we’re hearing from inside the club, with David Ornstein revealing that the ownership and sporting hierarchy fully intend to stick with the Dutchman.

That continuity feels important when you consider the context of this season, because Slot has had to deal with injuries at key moments, including going into the second half against PSG without several major players available.

At the same time, the former Feyenoord boss has already outlined the scale of the rebuild required, admitting after the defeat that “we have to sell to buy,” which highlights that this is a transitional period rather than a finished team ready to compete on all fronts.

From our perspective, while there are clear areas that need improvement, whether that’s tempo, pressing consistency or cutting edge in front of goal, the idea of resetting again so soon would bring its own risks.

Keane’s comments underline that reality, because even in a disappointing campaign, stability and a strong finish could still give us a platform to push forward again next season under Slot.

There are some moments where football feels secondary, and the latest update on Hugo Ekitike is one of them after confirmation of a devastating injury setback.

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Following our Champions League exit to PSG, fears around the French forward’s condition have now been fully realised, with confirmation that his season is over and his international dreams have taken a huge hit.

France confirm devastating Ekitike blow

In a statement shared by France national football team on X, manager Didier Deschamps confirmed the severity of the injury.

He said: “Hugo suffered a serious injury on Tuesday evening against PSG. The severity of his injury will unfortunately prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and participating in the World Cup.”

The France boss continued by highlighting just how important the young striker had become within the national setup.

Deschamps added: “Hugo is one of the dozen young players who have made their debuts with the national team in recent months.

“He had perfectly integrated into the group, both on the pitch and off it. This injury is a huge blow for him, of course, but also for the France team.”

The emotional message didn’t stop there, with the 57-year-old making clear just how difficult this moment will be for our No.22.

He said: “His disappointment is immense. Hugo will regain his top form, I’m convinced of it. But I wanted to express all my support to him, as well as that of the entire staff.

“We know he’ll be fully behind the France team, and we’re all thinking of him very strongly.”

Liverpool left with major gap after Ekitike injury

For us, this confirms what had already been feared after early medical assessments suggested a long-term absence, with reports already indicating the striker could be out for up to nine months following an Achilles rupture.

That timeline not only ends his season prematurely but also rules him out of the 2026 World Cup, compounding what is already a crushing personal blow for the Frenchman.

Ibou Konate had hinted at the severity immediately after the match, admitting: “I am very sad for him… I think it’s bad… it’s very hard for him at this moment.”

With our campaign already unravelling following the PSG defeat, losing a key attacking option like Ekitike only deepens the sense that everything that could go wrong for us in recent weeks, has done.

We need to get our act together on youth development, but Gannon Doak’s gripes make no sense…

Ben Doak signs for Liverpool. Photo Liverpool FC

Promising Scotland winger, and former Celtic prospect Ben Gannon Doak has given his opinion on his time in the East End of Glasgow, and why he felt the need to leave for the cash rich EPL.

Back when he was simply known as Ben Doak, the talented winger was handed his debut at the tender age of 16 as a substitute in a home league clash with Dundee United, and followed it up by making a further appearance from the bench days later in the pressure cooker atmosphere of a Glasgow derby, under the lights on a February evening as Ange Postecolgou’s Celtic side swept aside the Rangers to go to the top of the table.

Ben Doak of Liverpool celebrates scoring Liverpool’s third goal from the penalty spot at AXA Training Centre on August 13, 2022 in Kirkby, England. (Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)

Ben is blessed with great talent, that’s not in question, and whilst our record in rearing young talent isn’t mightily impressive, to claim he was ‘held back’ is complete and utter nonsense.

According to former coach Darren O’Dea, Ben was pushing Ange Postecoglou for more minutes, but at the tender age of 16, it’s not viable to be thrown right into a side under such scrutiny as Celtic, something that could have had a negative impact on the youngsters development.

Celtic v Buckie Thistle – Liel Abada in action during the Scottish Cup match at Celtic Park on Sunday January 21, 2024. Photo Andrew Milligan

We also happened to have the likes of Jota, Liel Abada, Daizen Maeda, and James Forrest ahead of Ben in the pecking order, players who had an abundance of experience at club and international level.

Ange had just got his side moulded in the shape he wanted, and our squad depth was at the best it had been in years, and we were in the midst of a title battle, even the likes of Giorgos Giakoumakis, a Greek international and a man who finished the season prior as the top scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie wasn’t guaranteed a regular start.

Ben would in doubt have been pushing for a first team place had he bided his time, and not jumped at the financial rewards on offer down in the bright lights of the EPL via the Liverpool Academy.

Ben Doak of Liverpool controls the ball during the pre-season friendly match between Karlsruher SC and Liverpool FC at BBBank Wildparkstadion on July 19, 2023 in Karlsruhe, Germany. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Ironically Ben struggled to get regular game time in a terrific Liverpool side, before impressing in a loan spell at Middlesbrough, which won him a megabucks move to Bournemouth.

Despite some injury issues he’s doing well at The Cherries, as he is at international level for Scotland, and long may that continue, but trying to spin the narrative that he was hard done by at Celtic is fooling nobody.

Since Brexit it’s harder for the cash-rich English Premier League sides to sign up the best young players on the continent so their attention has turned to Scotland, remember we were taken out of the EU against our will.

Ben Doak has gone onto make an impact but even at this stage it’s more about potential rather than what he’s managed to deliver week in week out in club football. Had he stayed at Celtic he would have worked with both Ange Postecoglou and then Brendan Rodgers, who has a well deserved reputation for player development.

It’s a what if scenario but Doak most likely would have got a big £25m move from Celtic to the Premier League after few seasons living the glory and the dream in the Hoops. Instead he’s got two substitute appearances with a few kicks of the ball to sum up his Celtic career.

The decision to leave was his. There’s no fault here on the party of Celtic, so let’s not re-write history.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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Quarterback competitions aren’t what they used to be.

The amount of player movement at quarterback every winter has removed much of the guesswork from these offseason battles, given that many quarterbacks simply hop into the transfer portal rather than roll the dice on losing a competition and a year of eligibility.

But there are a few high-profile contests underway this spring in the Power Four, including at potential College Football Playoff contenders in Alabama, Clemson and Tennessee.

Heading into a crucial season, Crimson Tide coach Kalen DeBoer is evaluating two highly talented but unproven contenders in redshirt sophomore Austin Mack and true freshman Keelon Russell. The latter made a late move with 240 yards and four touchdowns in the Tide’s spring game.

These eight competitions are worth monitoring as the Bowl Subdivision gets ready for the summer:

Alabama

Contenders: Austin Mack, Keelon Russell.

Mack looked the part of Alabama’s next starter after coming in for Ty Simpson during the tail end of a Rose Bowl loss to Indiana in last year’s playoff quarterfinals. He completed 11 of 16 attempts against the Hoosiers and went 24 of 32 for 228 years on the season. Russell was a top-level recruit who played in just two games in 2025 and preserved his redshirt. Mack has the edge in overall experience and in his experience in the scheme after following DeBoer from Washington. But Russell winning the battle would come as no surprise.

Austin Mack or Keelon Russell? The latest intel on Alabama's QB competition

Clemson

Contenders: Brock Bradley, Chris Denson, Trent Pearman, Tait Reynolds, Christopher Vizzina.

Vizzina is the heavy favorite coming out of the spring after spending the past two seasons as Cade Klubnik’s backup and going for 317 yards and three touchdowns as the starter in last year’s loss to SMU. Reynolds, a freshman, has ascended into the backup role. That could result in Denson moving away from quarterback this season. Reynolds has a shot at unseating Vizzina heading into the opener but is more likely to earn an in-season promotion if the passing game sputters.

Tennessee

Contenders: Faizon Brandon, George MacIntyre.

The talent may be obvious, but neither option inspires huge confidence at this point: MacIntyre is a redshirt freshman who attempted nine passes in 2025 and Brandon is a true freshman, though of the five-star variety. While Josh Heupel’s biggest successes at Tennessee have come with a veteran under center, the Volunteers did make the playoff with then-freshman Nico Iamaleava as the starter.

Florida

Contenders: Tramell Jones Jr., Aaron Philo.

New coach Jon Sumrall has said this competition will extend into fall camp even if Philo seems to be the favorite. He has the edge in experience after making more than 100 attempts across two years at Georgia Tech and has a deeper familiarity with the Gators’ offense under coordinator Buster Faulkner, who held the same position with the Yellow Jackets. Yet Jones outplayed Philo in the final scrimmage and did a better job during the spring of protecting the football.

Duke

Contenders: Walker Eget, Dan Mahan, Ari Patu, Terry Walker III.

Duke lost rising junior and projected starter Darian Mensah to Miami just as the portal closed this winter. In response, the Blue Devils signed San Jose State transfer Walker Eget, who went for 5,555 yards and 30 touchdowns the past two seasons and was granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA. Eget has been slowed by knee surgery, however. That could give Mahan a small window to make a move in this competition; the Blue Devils’ coaches are high on the redshirt freshman.

North Carolina

Contenders: Travis Burgess, Taron Dickens, Billy Edwards Jr., Au’Tori Newkirk, Miles O’Neill.

Well, the Tar Heels definitely have options. Bill Belichick and new offensive coordinator Bobby Petrino could go with Edwards, who has Power Four starting experience but missed all but two games of last season at Wisconsin because of a knee injury. They could roll with Dickens, who put up jaw-dropping numbers at Western Carolina before transferring to Chapel Hill in February. O’Neill looks the part at 6-5 and 220 pounds but needs more seasoning after getting into seven games at Texas A&M as a redshirt freshman in 2025. Newkirk is the only UNC quarterback returning from last season, which probably means nothing. Burgess arrives on campus as a true freshman and is buried on the depth chart, though that could quickly change if the Tar Heels’ season runs off the rails. Anyone who saw Belichick’s debut knows that’s a possibility.

Virginia Tech

Contenders: Ethan Grunkemeyer, Troy Huhn.

The Hokies went into spring workouts with Grunkemeyer as the heavy favorite for the starting job. The sophomore was the primary starter at Penn State last season after Drew Allar's injury and followed former coach James Franklin, joining a quarterback room that lost starter Kyron Drones to graduation and needed an overhaul. But even as Grunkemeyer remains the odds-on pick to start the opener, Tech will enter Saturday’s scrimmage with a tighter competition thanks to Huhn’s strong performance in the spring. A true freshman, Huhn was verbally committed to Penn State but switched to Tech after Franklin was hired.

Iowa

Contenders: Hank Brown, Jeremy Hecklinski.

Former starter Mark Gronowski’s performance last season proved the right kind of quarterback can shine in Iowa coordinator Tim Lester’s scheme. True freshman Tradon Bessinger will arrive this summer and possibly impact the race during preseason camp. But the competition is really centered on two former transfers in Hecklinski (Wake Forest) and Brown (Auburn), who joined the program before last season. Hecklinski took over the backup role from Brown at the midseason point, though both continued to share practice snaps through bowl play.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College football biggest QB battles this spring in Power Four conferences

Bayern Munich winger Luis Díaz was not having a great game as the Champions League match vs. Real Madrid moved into its waning moments.

However, it has been impossible to count the Colombian star out this season because he never stops working and just never quits.

Real Madrid would find that out the hard way as Díaz hit a wonderful strike to temporarily knot the game at 3-3 (5-4 on aggregate) before Michael Olise would put the icing on the cake with another score to seal the deal. For Díaz, it was a goal that he will never forget.

“I think it’s in the top three, if not number one. Looking back at my important goals, this has been one of my favorites and the one with the most meaning, given the moment in the game. It was a very complicated game, we needed the result and, thank God, I was able to score that nice goal to help the team advance to the next round,” Díaz told ESPN Colombia (as captured by @iMiaSanMia).

Díaz’s goal was a perfect example of the mindset that this team has and why it has become one of the best — if not the best — in the world this season. One? Two? Three? Ultimately, the ranking does not matter, as it will surely be a moment that Díaz remembers forever.

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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England international Anthony Gordon is open to leaving Newcastle United this summer according to reports.

The forward initially joined the Magpies from Everton midway through the 2022/23 season and has since gone on to score 39 goals and make 21 assists in 152 games for the club.

However, according to journalist Luke Edwards of The Telegraph, while Gordon has yet to tell his club that he wants to leave he is open to exiting this summer.

One club who has strongly been linked with a move for Gordon in recent seasons is Liverpool but considering last summer's Alexander Isak transfer saga the North East club may not be too happy to enter into talks with the Reds again.

This could prove to be a big summer for Newcastle United with decisions to be made over their manager and several key players that could depend on their final league position.

Real Madrid’s Champions League campaign has ended in frustration, with Bayern Munich once again proving too strong on Europe’s biggest stage. 

As a result, Los Blancos now find themselves searching for answers after another painful exit, this time under Alvaro Arbeloa.

The quarter-final clash had everything – intensity, goals, drama, and controversy. 

Yet, despite moments of promise, Real Madrid ultimately fell short when it mattered most. 

One of the defining moments of the tie came with the sending-off of Eduardo Camavinga, which completely shifted the momentum in Bayern’s favour.

Thierry Henry’s analysis

Speaking on CBS Sports (h/t AS), former Arsenal and Barcelona striker Thierry Henry broke down exactly where things went wrong for Madrid. 

He acknowledged that breaking down Bayern is never easy, but insisted that the Spanish side had created an opening, only to let it slip away due to lapses in collective effort.

“Against Bayern, you can’t make any mistakes. They are a very balanced side and don’t always give you chances, but here they gave Real Madrid an opportunity. 

Real Madrid are out of the Champions League. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

“But with Real Madrid, if you’re down to 10 men against Bayern and you’re not prepared to go the extra mile and defend as a team, a side like Bayern will punish you,” he assessed.

His comments point directly to what many observers have highlighted, which is the lack of defensive unity after going down to ten men. 

Bayern quickly capitalised, with goals from Luis Diaz and Michael Olise, ruthlessly sealing Madrid’s fate.

Furthermore, while Henry focused on tactical discipline, fellow pundit Micah Richards looked at the bigger picture of the spectacle itself. 

He summed up the chaos and entertainment value of the encounter, describing it as one of the most unforgettable matches in recent Champions League history.

“It was absolute madness. 

“I can’t believe what we saw – goal after goal, top-class players, injuries, red cards – what we witnessed tonight was absolutely incredible,” he said.

Supercars will make a parity change to the Chevrolet Camaro teams in time for this weekend’s fourth round at Ruapuna Park in Christchurch, New Zealand.

On Thursday, the Supercars Commission notified the teams that small changes will be made to the Camaro front splitter and rear wing to shift the car's aerodynamic balance rearwards.

In a note to the teams the Commission said: “Following the necessary analysis and consultation with the HT's, Supercars have determined a change be made to the Chevrolet Camaro to shift its aerodynamic balance rearwards making it similar to the Ford Mustang and Toyota Supra. This aerodynamic difference was evident in the wind tunnel results and now further substantiated with vehicle track data.

“The changes are a reduction in front splitter leading edge, rear wing position rearward/upwards and reduced rear wing angle.

“The change will be made for this weekend's ITM Christchurch Super 440.

“Further testing and CFD will be undertaken in the coming weeks, and you are reminded Supercars reserve the right to reverse, revise or modify the changes for the next two rounds.”

Will Brown, Triple Eight Race Engineering Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Ironically, Supercars made a minor shift in the aero profile of the Camaro during the off-season, which recently drew criticism from Erebus Motorsport CEO Barry Ryan. Speaking on Fox Sports’ MotorRacing 360 program, Ryan criticised the minor changes made to the Chevrolets.

“Unfortunately, GM allowed a change in the off-season, which shouldn’t have happened,” he said.

“We were the incumbent manufacturer. We shouldn’t have had a change. I tried to argue it, but it didn’t matter. For some reason we shifted the balance three percent to the front.”

Ryan further said that the Chevrolet camp did not have the top-line drivers that race for Ford and Toyota teams this season.

“At the end of the day, I’ll be totally honest, we haven’t got any A-grade drivers. Some of the drivers won’t like hearing that, but they’re not A-grade drivers. We haven’t got multiple winners in our GM camp.

“We’ve got a couple rookie drivers, and particularly Jobe [Stewart], none of our set-ups work anymore, so we are trying to get us set up that we can work that he can deal with, as well as being a rookie.

“Not making excuses, but we should have never changed the balance. And unfortunately they changed it. We’re stuck with what we’ve got at the moment.

“No one’s asking for more downforce. We’re just asking for a shift back so we can balance the car up again.”

This weekend will see four races over three days, starting on Friday afternoon.

Parity investigation triggered after Toyota Supercars Taupo win

Supercars Taupo: Toyota takes first series win

To read more Motorsport.com articles visit our website.

CHICAGO — The San Jose Sharks showed their two faces on Wednesday night, in a 5-2 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.

At times this season, like for most of their 3-2 victory over the Nashville Predators on Monday, they’re a group capable of playing a direct, playoff-worthy game.

They did so for 40 minutes, defending hard and stifling a sleepy-looking Blackhawks squad with their forecheck. At that point, the Sharks were up 2-1, and per Natural Stat Trick, had outchanced the home team 10-6 at 5-on-5.

And then, the irresponsible San Jose side that flamed out and missed the playoffs showed up in the third period. Careless with the puck and lax defensively, they allowed four unanswered goals.

For a number of the San Jose Sharks youngsters, it was a Jekyll and Hyde performance. Hopefully, next year, there’s a lot more Jekyll than Hyde.

Yaroslav Askarov, for example, made back-to-back brilliant saves on Ilya Mikheyev in the first period, including a penalty shot…and then he surrendered a soft bad-angle bid to Sam Rinzel to close the second period.

Macklin Celebrini has enjoyed a Hart Trophy-worthy campaign, but it was his blind pass up the middle that Connor Bedard jumped on to go the other way, finding Louis Crevier to tie the game.

Sam Dickinson killed play after play in the first period, but then fell asleep on Crevier attacking the net, on what should’ve been a routine 3-on-3 backcheck.

Luca Cagnoni had his best offensive period in the NHL in the opening frame…and then lost Tyler Bertuzzi on a corner pin, before Bertuzzi hit Crevier on the blueline for the 4-2 bomb.

Those are just some of the young players who need to find a little more consistency and gain more understanding of how to play with momentum, yes, even franchise star Celebrini. I’m focused, by the way, on the youth, because they’re most likely to be able to improve.

“This one is a kick in the gut, because we should know by now,” San Jose Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky said. “We’ve talked about enough of the momentum shifts in games and when to simplify it and when to be a mature team.”

Just a little more consistency this year, and the Sharks would’ve made the playoffs for the first time in seven years.

“Understand that really, we’ve controlled most of the game the first two periods, let’s go put zeroes in the third and we win a hockey game,” Warsofsky said. “And until we do that, we won’t make another step.”

Instead, they’re going home early, wondering what could’ve been.

Michael Misa

Misa, on playing with momentum:

[Warsofsky’s] definitely right about that. We definitely got to find times when they have the momentum, make sure we’re playing well defensively. And then, when we have the momentum, we got to be on the attack. I thought we were for the majority of that game, but yeah, came up short.

Ryan Warsofsky

Warsofsky: "This one is a kick in the gut, because we should know by now. To be honest with it, we should know by now, we've talked about enough of the momentum shifts in games and when to simplify it and when to be a mature team and understand that really, we've controlled most…

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 16, 2026

Collin Graf

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Luca Cagnoni

Cagnoni & Warsofsky thought, 1st half of the game, was most comfortable offensively that Luca's looked in NHL

Cagnoni: "I'm just trying to do what I've been doing down in the A all year, just trying to produce, set up guys, or give myself a look thought, I found some open ice…

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) April 16, 2026

The post Sharks Locker Room: Two-Face appeared first on San Jose Hockey Now.

BBC Radio 5 Live's senior football correspondent John Murray says defensively Arsenal "have got a lot about them" but will have to go to one of the "toughest places" in their Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid.

Atletico edged past Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate to reach the semis, with the second leg playing out in front of a raucous home crowd at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

"When Arsenal played Atletico Madrid at home in the league phase they won 4-0 so that is not a bad one to have in your locker," Murray told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.

"It's a totally different matter now at this end of the season, playing each other over two legs in a semi-final, but the second leg will be at the Emirates.

"The Metropolitano is right up there with the toughest places to go and they have shown that in an attacking sense this Atletico side have got a lot about them.

"There is a real good atmosphere and genuine noise inside that stadium. You have got to be on it there to perform against them.

"But in a defensive sense Arsenal have got a lot about them.

"Sporting are a capable team, Portuguese champions, and they could not find a way past David Raya in either leg. In this competition so far Arsenal have only conceded five goals in 12 matches.

"That shows you everything about their strengths."

• Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

Arteta's side have the highest likelihood of winning this year's Champions League trophy with a 36.75% chance, according to Opta's Supercomputer.

In fact, the supercomputer isn't giving semi-final opponents Atletico Madrid much of a chance at all with Arsenal having a whopping 73.40% probability of reaching the final.

Unsurprisingly, that means the last Spanish side remaining have the lowest probability of winning the competition with 9.29% and just a 26.60% chance of getting past the Gunners.

Opta supercomputer Champions League predictions:

Arsenal: 36.75%

Bayern Munich: 34.61%

Paris St-Germain: 19.35%

Atletico Madrid: 9.29%

You don't need to go searching for trouble in this game. Trouble will find you soon enough.

It was a phrase Sir Alex Ferguson liked to use as he dealt with the ups and downs of life at Manchester United.

Prior to Monday, Manchester United seemed on course to qualify for the Champions League. By midnight, doubts were setting in after the home defeat by Leeds.

Yet Michael Carrick's side are still in a very strong position.

They go to Chelsea on Saturday seven points clear of their sixth-placed hosts, with five spots available. A draw would leave them needing a maximum of 10 points from their final five games to secure a return to Europe's elite club competition after a two-year absence.

That would be a year ahead of schedule and a reason to celebrate at Old Trafford.

But it would also bring issues to solve - not least the futures of goalkeeper Andre Onana and England forward Marcus Rashford.

• Barcelona 'not a pressure' for on-loan Rashford
• A 'normal guy' doing 'brilliant' things - Lammens on life at Man Utd

Doing well in Turkey and Spain

Both players are spending the season out on loan.

Onana's United contract runs to 2028. The Cameroon international joined from Inter Milan for £47.2m after an outstanding season which ended in Champions League final defeat by Manchester City.

He left for Turkish club Trabzonspor on 11 September after making a single first-team appearance for Manchester United this season, in the EFL Cup defeat on penalties at League Two Grimsby, when he was blamed for both Mariners' goals in a 2-2 draw.

Rashford joined Barcelona on 23 July, having already been placed in Ruben Amorim's 'bomb squad' and told to train at different times to the first-team squad. He had fallen out with the Portuguese coach during the previous campaign, which he ended on loan at Aston Villa.

Both are doing reasonably well.

Onana has started 26 times for Trabzonspor, who are third in the Turkish league, two points behind second-placed Fenerbahce. His side has also reached the last eight of the Turkish Cup.

Rashford was a second-half substitute as Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday but lost on aggregate.

He has started 15 times, made 11 substitute appearances and scored six goals in La Liga, which Barca lead by nine points from Real Madrid with seven games remaining.

Yet, beyond the end of the season, their futures are uncertain.

United have tended to include a clause in player contracts that provide a 25% hike in wages if the club qualify for the Champions League.

Prior to last season's Europa League final, it was estimated beating Tottenham would cost them £30m in bonuses. United feel it is worth it because of the additional prize money on offer in the tournament, the extra gate receipts and the greater attraction they become from a commercial perspective.

However, the bonus applies to all contracts, even those of players they do not want, and that makes them harder to shift.

Happy to come back but not wanted? What happens now?

Onana expects to be told at the end of May what Manchester United plan for him next season.

There is a basic reality to this situation though. Trabzonspor are paying his £6m-a-year wages. That salary will go up if Manchester United are in the Champions League next season.

Current number one Senne Lammens seems certain to be chosen for World Cup duty by Belgium. Altay Bayindir's future is uncertain anyway because of interest from Besiktas, who tried to sign him in January, but regardless, he is expected to be part of Turkey's squad.

It means Manchester United are likely to be short of experienced goalkeepers for their opening pre-season game against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July – the day before the World Cup final – and maybe for games that follow that given players are entitled to a three-week break after their last tournament match.

It is possible Radek Vitek, who has had an outstanding season on loan at Bristol City, could still be at Manchester United in mid-July but he made it perfectly clear in an interview with BBC Sport last month he wants to play next season and has no interest in being anywhere to sit on the bench for an extended period.

Sources with knowledge of Onana feel his current mindset is that he will be returning to the club, hoping to play during pre-season and then try to convince the new permanent manager he can be part of his plans.

Onana still believes he has an Old Trafford future and is not prepared to give that up without a fight, as unlikely as it seems that Lammens will relinquish his number one spot.

Rashford is in a different position.

Until 15 June, the ball is in Barcelona's court. That is the deadline they have to activate a clause which would allow them to turn his loan into a permanent deal for a fee of £26m.

Most expect it to happen, although Barca have given the impression of wanting to negotiate over the details, something Manchester United are unwilling to do.

However, the club also know if Rashford reverts back to being their player on 30 June when his Barca contract ends, he will instantly become one of their highest earners.

Numerous clubs are said to be keen on the forward, who is in line to be in Thomas Tuchel's England squad this summer. Manchester United might think they can get a bigger fee from another suitor. But can they get a bigger fee and cover Rashford's wages? Not many clubs in Europe have Barca's status and global pulling power.

Minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has complained before about the amount of money Manchester United are spending to subsidise the salaries of players currently at other clubs.

Even if Onana and Rashford are not in that bracket currently, there is a possibility they might be if it is decided the pair have no future at Old Trafford.

As it stands, both players are said to be open to coming back if needed, while United don't want to address the issue publicly as they still have work to do to seal a Champions League return.

If they do, then the negotiations will start. It might not be easy.

• Latest Manchester United news, analysis and fan views
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Travis and Jason Kelce have dropped their review of the new treat at Yankee Stadium in New York City. In the latest episode of their New Heights podcast, the brothers were seen discussing their favorite MLB concessions. This included the viral fried chicken dessert that was instantly sold out.

Travis and Jason Kelce said this about Yankees ‘chicken’ dessert bucket

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Travis and Jason Kelce opened up on the Yankees’ chicken ice cream dish. Jason said, “What is the point of making it look like chicken? I am not a big fan if a food impersonates other food.” He added, “I am out on the chicken sandwich ice cream sandwich thing.” The former footballer shared that he doesn’t need it to look like a chicken drumstick. He further wondered, “Who are we fooling here?” and continued, “I would make sense if it were the New York chickens.”

On the other hand, Travis said, “This doesn’t make any sense at all. There has to be something that’s making sense.” The Kansas City Chiefs tight end added, “There’s no way somebody would be like, ‘Alright, here check this out, guys,’ and presses on the ‘drumstick.'” Meanwhile, the guest hilariously stated that the brothers are “overthinking” regarding the dish.

As for the dish in question, it is vanilla ice cream covered with caramel white chocolate. The cold dessert is then encrusted with cornflakes, with a chocolate-coated bone. MLB announced this unique dessert on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “The Yankees will have a Mini Dessert ‘Chicken’ Bucket at home games this year. But it’s not actually chicken – it’s drumstick-shaped ice cream with a chocolate-covered cookie ‘bone’ center, a coating of white chocolate and candied corn flakes served in a souvenir mini ‘chicken’ bucket.”

Priced at $10.99, the treat became popular with fans, who were reportedly waiting for a long time to grab it. Fans were also surprised by the dessert’s resemblance to a drumstick. Meanwhile, Michael Margolis, senior director of communications, commented on its success to The Athletic. He said, “Given how well-received the item was on media day, interest from fans was tremendous, and we sold out of the item by the first inning of Saturday’s game.”

Originally reported by Ritika Singh on Mandatory.

The post Travis & Jason Kelce React to Yankees ‘Chicken’ Dessert appeared first on Reality Tea.

Ex AC Milan and Chelsea star Marcel Desailly believes Inter star Alessandro Bastoni should move to Barcelona and would lift the La Liga giants to the next level.

Marcel Desailly argued that Alessandro Bastoni should move to Barcelona this summer if he had the chance.

Furthermore, the former Marseille star believes that Bastoni would improve Barcelona so much they would be able to reach the next level.

Subsequently, Desailly argued that Bastoni has exactly what Barcelona are lacking: defensive solidity.

However, the former France star argued that Barcelona have fantastic players in every department bar the defence.

Therefore, signing Bastoni would be the missing piece to help them win the Champions League.

Desailly made these statements in an interview with SempreInter.com and The Italian Football Podcast, at an online event hosted by BetVictor Online Casino.

Ex AC Milan & Chelsea Star Desailly: “Inter Milan’s Bastoni Could Lift Barcelona To Next Level”

GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Alessandro Bastoni of Inter celebrates after the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“Barcelona transfer? Yes I mean it is a good experience to match your level” Desailly began.

“He’s same as Leao. in that I don’t know about his winning mentality. He is a defender, he isn’t a creative player.

“But maybe he can lift the level to understand and adapt to Barcelona’s level. Where they are in need of a strong defensive attitude.

“You can see Barcelona, that in each position they are just amazing. But they are weak at the back. And that is why they don’t win the Champions League.

“So he could be that player that brings that consistency and that strength on the defensive block to bring Barcelona to another level.

“Because they definitely need defensive leaders in the squad” Desailly concluded.

The future of LIV Golf is in doubt amid reports that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is set to pull its funding for the rebel golf league after just four years.

Since its launch in June 2022, the PIF has thrown more than $5bn at LIV Golf attempting to overthrow the sport, signing some of the PGA Tour’s biggest stars in Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka, as well as European Ryder Cup stalwarts Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood.

But LIV Golf failed to make the splash that its big-money signing bonuses promised. And on Wednesday, league executives called an “emergency meeting” in New York, according to The Telegraph.

At the same time, senior LIV Golf figures insisted the league was going to continue and remain at “full throttle”. So what happens next?

What is LIV Golf and how did we get here?

The rebel golf league, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and founded in 2022, sparked a civil war in the sport and a bitter feud with the US-based PGA Tour, with numerous players making the controversial move, which saw signing bonuses in excess of nine figures. John Rahm, for example, was rumoured to have signed a $500m deal to join.

It also attracted strong criticism and controversy, with human rights groups claiming the league as sportswashing and a political strategy for Saudi Arabia to improve its global image through sports.

The league was run by the PIF’s governor, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, and two-time major winner Greg Norman, who operated as CEO until his departure in 2025, with Scott O'Neil replacing him.

Two-time major champion Dustin Johnson was one of the most significant initial signings in 2022, with major champions Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, and Patrick Reed among the biggest signings soon after.

Cameron Smith, weeks after winning The Open at St Andrews, joined later that year, with Rahm, the reigning Masters champion at the time, signing in December 2023. The Spaniard would win the individual championship in each of the last two seasons and leads the all-time prize money list at $74,976,946 (£55.3m).

What went wrong in golf’s ‘civil war’ with the PGA?

Despite investing billions of dollars into the league, LIV Golf remained isolated and it failed to capture wider attention, particularly in the United States and Europe. Golf, as a whole, also struggled to thrive with its best players failing to meet outside of the majors on a regular basis.

The PGA also retained the support of golf’s two biggest starts, Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods, and it refused to lie down quietly. That led to a proposed merger of commercial rights of LIV, PGA and European Tours in 2023, with then PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan and Al-Rumayyan in negotiations.

But after a deadline expired on 31 December, 2023, the PGA Tour eventually opted to pursue its own path, with investment worth $3bn for its for-profit arm, PGA Tour Enterprises, led by a Fenway Sports Group-backed consortium with major US professional sports owners.

While the main rivalry involved the PGA Tour, LIV Golf also engaged in a lengthy dispute with the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR), which operates and organises the sport’s rankings, which largely decides entry to the majors, golf’s most prestigious tournaments.

One of the main negatives to playing in the league was an initial absence of a route into the majors, beyond existing exemptions for recent champions, though The Masters did extend invitations to some players who did not qualify.

Several leading stars have since left LIV Golf and are attempting to rejoin the PGA Tour. Brooks Koepka was allowed to rejoin the PGA Tour after paying a $5m fine. Patrick Reed also left LIV and is playing a European tour schedule this year before potentially qualifying for a PGA Tour card in 2027.

How LIV Golf responded to reports of PIF ‘pulling funding’

Reports of an “emergency meeting” involving senior LIV Golf figures and questions about the league’s future followed the publication of the Public Investment Fund’s new five-year investment strategy. PIF said the new phase would explore “sustained value creation, with a strengthened focus on maximizing impact, raising the efficiency of investments”.

A memo sent to LIV Golf staff by its CEO Scott O'Neil was then shared by the Associated Press. It said: "I want to be crystal clear: Our season continues exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle. While the media landscape is often filled with speculation, our reality is defined by the work we do on the grass. We are heading into the heart of our 2026 schedule with the full energy of an organization that is bigger, louder, and more influential than ever before."

The next LIV Golf event is set to begin in Mexico on Thursday, and LIV Golf has continued to promote the event. "Slow news day? We are ON,” a social media post read. Meanwhile, former Masters champion Sergio Garcia was asked about the speculation ahead of the Mexico event. “Honestly, we haven’t heard anything other than what Yasir told us at the beginning of the year,” Garcia said at a press conference. “That he’s behind us, that they have a long-term project.”

What other sports projects has Saudi Arabia’s PIF invested in?

Through its Public Investment Fund, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in several major sports, as well as entertainment and tourism projects, in an attempt to diversify its revenue streams. The PIF has ownership in Premier League club Newcastle United, as well as several clubs in the Saudi Pro League such as Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr. Boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikhhas staged several major fights in Saudi Arabia, while the region has also staged events in Formula One, UFC, tennis and snooker.

Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2034 men’s World Cup, which would be, by far, its biggest and most expensive event since it began investing in sports. The suggestion of the PIF’s next five-year strategy is that the investment fund will look to focus on “raising the efficiency of investments”, concentrating on major events like the World Cup rather than throwing money at projects like LIV Golf for little returns. It remains to be seen, however, if LIV Golf will even have a future to fight for.

Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton says Arsenal are "still a capable team" and that he does not rule them out of ending the season with at least one of the Premier League and Champions League trophies.

The Gunners laboured to a goalless draw in Wednesday's quarter-final second leg against Sporting but their 1-0 first leg lead meant they reached successive semi-finals in the competition for the first time in their history and will take on Atletico Madrid for a place in the final.

"We know what the narrative will be; people will rip Arsenal to shreds for the way they attacked, or you could say how they didn't attack," Sutton told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.

"But I do understand towards the end of the game it is about seeing it through. Why should they go Gung ho? The objective was all about going through and finding a way.

"It wasn't perfect by any means but out of possession and defensively they do a lot right.

"It's been a struggle for a while now and things do need to change, and people will be looking ahead to the game against Manchester City and writing Arsenal off.

"They are not creating enough and that's a huge issue for Mikel Arteta. I'm sure he's thinking about it every hour of the day. The wide players are not decisive enough.

"They have a lot of work to do but I take my hat of to Arsenal in the way they defend, and recover when they lose the ball. They are not perfect at the moment but I am certainly not going to write them off and rule them out of winning trophies because they have been a little bit ineffective.

"I still think they are a capable team and it may well click now before the end of the season in that final third. Arsenal could see it through in the Premier League and the Champions League."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds

On Match of the Day Champions League, Nedum Onuoha said: "In some ways, there is a lot of noise around Arsenal. Arteta and some of the players are hearing it. The questions are going to be more negative than maybe a month ago but that's because of the fact they've lost three of the last four.

"I think it's right for them to close up and say 'it's us against the world' but also it wasn't great against Sporting."

Stephen Warnock gave his view on Arteta pushing back in the media: "He obviously feels like media, everyone around and the fans, the anxiety in the crowd. He's trying to convince them that everything is good and fine. You don't have to convince everyone. If you're happy with what you're seeing.

"At this point of the season, I don't think you do enjoy football. I think you get over the line. The pressure is huge. To get over the line, for Arsenal to win a Champions League and Premier League is absolutely massive."

Tommy Fleetwood returns to PGA Tour action this week, looking to bounce back from late disappointment at The Masters.

Fleetwood found himself in contention heading into the final round at Augusta, before a four-over 76 completely dashed his dreams of a maiden major championship win.

The Englishman ultimately finished in a tie for 33rd place, but now has a chance at redemption at the RBC Heritage.

The latest tournament in the 2026 PGA Tour schedule, the RBC Heritage has a high-quality field involving Fleetwood, Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young and defending champion Justin Thomas among many others.

It is, however, The Open Championship that arrives this summer that Fleetwood really wants to win above all else.

Tommy Fleetwood dreams of winning The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale

Sharing his intimate connection with The Open at Royal Birkdale, he told Esquire: “I was born there, my family still live there or are from there, and it’s the tournament I dream the most of.

“With that comes a pressure, but you have to use it in a positive way.

“I’m not unaware of the fact that just playing at Birkdale is the most special thing ever. “Whatever happens, I have to remember it’s the most special thing just to play it.”

The 154th Open will take place at the iconic Southport course in mid-July, with Scheffler set to be out to defend his title from 2025.

Fleetwood finished in a tie for 16th at Royal Portrush last time out, with his runner-up spot in 2019 representing his best-ever finish at the tournament.

Tommy Fleetwood really proud of maiden win at the 2025 Tour Championship

This year could be huge for Fleetwood, but 2025 did involve a major milestone as he clinched his maiden PGA Tour win.

After countless near misses and heartbreaks, he finally emerged victorious, impressively winning the 2025 Tour Championship.

Looking back on that victory at East Lake, he said: “One of the things I was most proud of when I managed to win in Atlanta was that I could be proof that you keep saying the right things, doing the right things, and you will have success.”

It’s a fantastic attitude from Fleetwood, and one that finally paid dividends with his success at the FedEx Cup.

And it is an approach that many of his PGA Tour rivals should be trying to emulate, with plenty more glory likely heading his way given that belief and of course his superb ability.

Highlighting his determination was the fact that he failed to convert two 54-hole leads during the season, which undoubtedly left him devastated.

Read more:

Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood’s new OWGR confirmed after The Masters finishes

Tommy Fleetwood says what was ‘dreadful’ about his week at The Masters

Rich Beem responds when asked if Tommy Fleetwood will win a major championship in 2026

Top assists of the week in the UCL 🎯

UEFA has compiled the best assists from the second legs of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Paris facing its worst nightmare 🥶

After a completely crazy match, Bayern Munich knocked out Real Madrid (4-3) to join PSG in the Champions League semi-finals. Which is not good news, if the stats are anything to go by.

According to Opta, the two teams will face each other for the 16th and 17th time in the UCL. PSG have lost nine times to Bayern, at least four more defeats than against any other opponent in the competition.

Do you think PSG can do it?

Donnarumma’s Batman tattoo 😅

Not everyone knew it, but Gianluigi Donnarumma is a huge Batman fan. So much so that the Italian goalkeeper even got a massive Dark Knight tattoo on his left leg.

So, what do you think?

What you shouldn’t miss from yesterday 🍿

- Deschamps confirms Ekitike will miss the World Cup

- PSG provide an update on Désiré Doué and Nuno Mendes

- Hugo Ekitike injured, who could replace him at the 2026 World Cup?

TV schedule 📺

6:45pm: Celta Vigo - Freiburg (Canal+ Foot)

6:45pm: AZ - Shakhtar (Canal+ Sport)

9:00pm: Nottingham - Porto (Canal+ Live 3)

9:00pm: Real Betis - Braga (Canal+ Live 4)

9:00pm: Aston Villa - Bologna (Canal+ Foot)

9:00pm: Strasbourg - Mainz (Canal+)

9:00pm: Fiorentina - Crystal Palace (Canal+ Live 7)

9:00pm: AEK - Rayo Vallecano (Canal+ Live 8)

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

Just before Saints played Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-final, I was asked on our Total Saints Podcast if I thought that automatic promotion was still a possibility?

My response was that, in the real world, it wasn't but let's have a look again if we can win our next two league games against play-off contenders, Wrexham and Derby.

Fast forward a couple of weeks and those games have been won, as has a further game at home to Blackburn and then you start looking at the teams around you.

Middlesbrough, Hull and Millwall all seem to be faltering to different degrees, which leaves Ipswich, who, on the night we comfortably dispatched Blackburn, managed to lose to Portsmouth.

No Saints fan is ever happy when Portsmouth win, but we were pleased that Ipswich lost.

Suddenly, we are just three points behind the Tractor Boys and we still have to play them.

Until that point, Saints can only take care of Swansea away and Bristol City at home, and as a long-suffering fan, I am just waiting for the wheels to fall off, with the 'game every four days' run of fixtures we are on at the moment.

If we take care of our own business and are still in touch with Ipswich going into that huge game on 28 April at St Mary's, then who knows?

Right now, Ipswich are still the favourites to go up automatically because they have a three-point lead and a game in hand, but they will be looking over their shoulders now and that brings pressure, especially when one team chasing you down is on an 18-game unbeaten run and has won six league matches in a row.

The fact we have to play Ipswich straight after we have had an emotional and energy-sapping day chasing Manchester City around at Wembley, will also be in their favour.

The most likely outcome is that Saints, Middlesbrough, Millwall and Hull will be in the play-offs.

At St Mary's, Saints walk out to a punk anthem by The Skids from 1978 called "The Saints are Coming".

Any more slips and our rivals for that second automatic promotion spot will be hearing those words.

For more from Glen and the Total Saints Podcast, head here.

For Ellie Scotney, it all started with a Mars bar and a Ribena. As a “child of God”, Scotney now avoids temptation at all costs, but her nine-year-old self was somewhat less disciplined. In the long run, it was for the best; the allure of a sugar rush brought her to her first boxing gym, fuelling her journey to the present day, where she has just become Britain’s youngest-ever undisputed champion.

“I first walked into a gym at nine, because my brother boxed,” Scotney tells The Independent, “and I always mess around and tell the story that he came home with a Mars bar and a Ribena – and I was like: ‘I want that!’ He wouldn’t let me go with him, but my cousin ended up taking me. I stopped because women’s boxing wasn’t a thing; I was the only female, I couldn’t get fights. I only did it for a year.”

It’s strange to think this could have been the end of Scotney’s journey. But eight years later, the Catford local returned to the gym, and to the sport. At that time, women’s boxing may not have been the “thing” it is now, but Scotney is part of a new generation of role models, who have driven the sport through all predicted barriers.

“I walk in the gym now, and there’s probably as many girls as boys, and the girls are really good,” Scotney says with a smile – but then she always seems to be smiling. “I wish I was that good at that age! As long as we keep pushing doors open, the ones that come behind us will have it even smoother. And the ones that went before us really took the load.”

Indeed, the 28-year-old cites trailblazers like Jane Couch, Christy Martin and Katie Taylor, but in beating Mayelli Flores on 5 April to become the undisputed super-bantamweight champion, Scotney herself has emerged as a true role model.

It’s not necessarily a responsibility that Scotney has dwelled on, yet she says, “When I meet someone, I just want them to feel like they’re exactly the same as me. I want them to feel like, ‘I’ve known that girl forever.’ And I’m an encourager. My mum gets annoyed at me, because if I see someone in the street, I’ll just start talking to anyone! It’s not wanting to be a role model; it’s just making someone, who doesn’t feel like anything, feel like something. If I can do that by making a bit of time for them, that’s key.”

Scotney mentions her family often, highlighting her mother and stressing: “My mum loves it. I think she aged about 10 years [during the Flores fight], but the joy and the backing my family give... it’s just endless. They all play a role. Some give me tough love, some are a bit softer and carry my bags, some are like: ‘You carry mine!’”

Scotney’s family were the focus of a video package that played before she outfought Flores in a punishing yet technical showdown. And perhaps the most touching moment in that video saw Scotney receive a voice message from her late nan, who passed away in 2023.

“It’s really weird, because when I listened to it, I felt like she was in the room with me,” Scotney reflects. “She was genuinely my best friend, and she loved boxing. I’d go down [to see her] every weekend before I boxed, I still do now; my uncle lives in the house.

“I go into her room and talk to her like she’s there. It’s just a routine, and in her ways, I feel like she shows me she is [still there]. We talk about fighters in the family, who’s the natural one, and I always say my nan. We were blessed that she lived 99 years. She was so witty, so sharp, but she just had that warmth to her that would carry any room she was in. You’d feel safe.

“Any time I’d go down [to see her], she’d say: ‘You’re gonna win, you know? I’ll say a prayer for you.’ Thank God she was here to witness me win my first world title, and we made a little promise; she was like: ‘You complete the collection.’ I just pray that she was watching from up there, because we got there in the end.”

In this particular answer, Scotney’s faith arises as a topic once more. “It’s my firm foundation,” she explains.

“In my eyes, Jesus is at the centre of it all. I wasn’t born in a religious household, but when I was 19, I started to go to church. My mum got baptised in February. It’s been a journey. I’ve seen God really work through the people around me. Fight week, I really saw it. Around me, people who never believed in God, believed in God. Even fighting on the Day of Resurrection: I wasn’t meant to, [my fight had] got delayed.”

Throughout the night on which she beat Flores at London’s Olympia, Scotney’s faith remained a focal point.

“It was really hard, because one of my best friends opened the card and got stopped,” Scotney says of Emma Dolan. “My pastor was up to pray with me, and I went to say: ‘How’s Emma getting on?’ And Shane [McGuigan, coach] just beelined for me, like, ‘Ellie, Ellie.’ I was a bit confused, and he said: ‘Look, the towel’s come in.’

“To witness one of your best friends not fulfil their dream, it’s hard; it shows you the reality of boxing. You want to be there for your friend, but there’s so many elements to it.”

In light of the damage and disappointment in Dolan’s fight, and in comparison to bigger topics like faith, it feels odd to ask about Jake Paul’s offer to buy Scotney a car if she won – yet it was one of the main talking points on fight week.

Paul, a co-promoter of the fight card, has made no purchase yet, only because Scotney still needs a driving licence. “I’m terrible on the bumper cars!” she says, somewhat ominously. Let’s hope her driving skills grow to match her boxing skills.

Real Madrid’s Champions League exit did not end with the final whistle, as it spilled straight onto social media, where Bayern Munich delivered one final blow. 

In modern football, these battles no longer stop on the pitch, and this time, the Bavarians ensured they had the last word online as well.

After securing a dramatic victory over Real Madrid, Bayern’s official X account wasted no time in capitalising on the moment. 

With emotions still running high following the intense quarter-final clash, the German giants posted a message that quickly went viral, one that directly referenced a legendary phrase deeply associated with Madrid’s European identity.

What was the message?

The quote originates from club icon Juanito, who famously said, “90 minuti al Bernabéu sono molto lunghi” (90 minutes at the Bernabéu are very long), a line that has long symbolised Real Madrid’s history of dramatic comebacks. 

Bayern, however, cheekily flipped the script.

Reworking the phrase to suit their own triumph at the Allianz Arena, the Bundesliga champions posted, “90 minutes at the Allianz are very long.” 

It must be noted that for much of the match, Real Madrid had shown real intent and looked capable of turning the tie around. 

There was a sense that another famous European comeback could be on the cards, especially as Los Blancos pushed forward with urgency and belief.

However, everything changed following the sending-off of Eduardo Camavinga. The midfielder’s red card shifted the balance decisively, handing Bayern the control they needed to close out the tie. 

From that point on, Madrid’s momentum faded, and the German side seized their opportunity.

Regarding Bayern’s social media post, while some fans viewed the message as harmless banter, others saw it as a pointed dig at Real Madrid’s legacy and identity in European competition.

Either way, it achieved its purpose. 

Today’s Highlights 🔥

Libertadores

7:00 PM - Palmeiras vs Sporting Cristal - Paramount+

7:00 PM - Lanús vs Always Ready - ESPN 4 and Disney+

9:30 PM - Flamengo vs Ind. Medellín - ESPN and Disney+

9:30 PM - Peñarol vs Platense - Paramount+

Sudamericana

7:00 PM - Atlético-MG vs Juventud-URU - ESPN and Disney+

7:00 PM - Tigre vs Macará - Paramount+

9:30 PM - RB Bragantino vs Blooming - ESPN 4 and Disney+

9:30 PM - San Lorenzo vs Dep. Cuenca - Paramount+

11:00 PM - Cienciano vs Puerto Cabello - ESPN 2 and Disney+

Copa do Nordeste

7:00 PM - América-RN vs Fortaleza - SportyNet and YouTube/SportyNet

7:00 PM - Imperatriz vs ABC - YouTube/Canal do Benja

UEFA Europa League

1:45 PM - Celta de Vigo vs Freiburg - YouTube/CazéTV

4:00 PM - Nottingham Forest vs Porto - YouTube/CazéTV 2

4:00 PM - Aston Villa vs Bologna - YouTube/CazéTV

4:00 PM - Betis vs Braga - YouTube/CazéTV

AFC Champions League

1:15 PM - Al-Sadd vs Vissel Kobe - ESPN 4 and Disney+

UEFA Conference League

1:45 PM - AZ Alkmaar vs Shakhtar Donetsk - YouTube/CazéTV

4:00 PM - Fiorentina vs Crystal Palace - YouTube/CazéTV

4:00 PM - Strasbourg vs Mainz 05 - YouTube/CazéTV

4:00 PM - AEK vs Rayo Vallecano - YouTube/CazéTV 2

English League (4th division)

4:00 PM - Bromley vs Cambridge United - Disney+

Women’s Friendly

4:30 PM - Ivory Coast vs Pakistan - FIFA+

South American U-17 Championship

5:00 PM - Brazil vs Colombia - SporTV

8:00 PM - Ecuador vs Argentina - SporTV 4

Copa Centro-Oeste

6:00 PM - Tocantinópolis vs Atlético-GO - SportyNet+

8:30 PM - Operário-MS vs Primavera - YouTube/Canal do Benja

Brazilian U-20 Championship

9:30 PM - Corinthians vs Santos - SporTV

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

Barcelona’s long-term project under Hansi Flick has taken a major step forward, with fresh reports confirming that the club is closing in on securing the German coach’s future. 

According to Radio Cat (h/t The Touchline), a verbal agreement has already been reached between both parties to extend Flick’s contract by an additional year.

This development comes at a crucial stage for the club, as stability on the bench remains a top priority following an intense and demanding season. 

Flick, who is currently tied to Barcelona until 2027, has played a central role in defining the team’s identity, making his renewal one of the board’s key objectives.

Everyone on board

The importance of this deal was expressed publicly by president Joan Laporta during his recent campaign, where he addressed the situation and reassured supporters about the club’s intentions. 

Providing clarity on the negotiations, Laporta stated, “We want to renew Flick’s deal until 2028. 

“He’s in favour of extending as well. We will announce an agreement soon because he’s very happy here.”

Flick will renew his contract with Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Those words now appear to be materialising into reality. 

Notably, in the lead-up to the Champions League quarter-final clash against Atletico Madrid at Spotify Camp Nou, Barcelona hosted Flick’s agent, Pini Zahavi. 

That meeting was seen as a decisive moment in negotiations, with both sides expected to lay the groundwork for a renewal agreement.

While Flick has historically favoured shorter contracts, preferring to concentrate on immediate footballing objectives rather than long-term commitments, there appears to be a strong alignment between him and the club regarding the future. 

This mutual understanding has been key in accelerating talks and reaching a verbal agreement.

As such, the club views Flick as the cornerstone of its sporting project and securing his continuity ensures that the current rebuild remains consistent, with a clear philosophy guiding the team forward.

• Reaction & highlights as Arsenal reach the semi-finals of the Champions League after beating Sporting 1-0 on aggregate
• They will play Atletico Madrid in the semi-final after Diego Simeone's team beat Barcelona on Tuesday night
• Arsenal looking to 'secure the silverware everyone at the club craves so much',says Arsenal reporter Alex Howell
• Watch highlights of all the quarter-finals, including Harry Kane's Bayern Munich knocking out Real Madrid to reach the last four
• Bayern will take on the reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain in the last four
• Semi-final matches will be played on 28/29 April with the second legs to come a week later

Champions League reaction and highlights: Arsenal through as semi-finals confirmed

Newcastle United attacker Anthony Gordon is open to leaving the St James’ Park club this summer, according to the Telegraph journalist Luke Edwards. The England international has not told Newcastle that he wants to leave, but the feeling inside St James’ Park is that the Magpies star will seek a move in the summer. Gordon, a long-term Arsenal target, will not be short of suitors in the Premier League and across Europe, but the Toons’ asking price for him is likely to exceed £80 million.

The Gunners have a long-standing admiration for the Newcastle star and he has featured in recruitment planning meetings at the Emirates Stadium club. Liverpool have also been linked in the past while Bayern Munich have recently emerged as credible suitors ahead of the summer window. Gordon wants his future sorted before heading to the World Cup in June, and the Magpies are braced for early bids. The 25-year-old wants to play in the Champions League regularly and Newcastle are likely to miss out entirely on European football next season after an underwhelming campaign.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Stephen Curry hit seven 3-pointers while scoring 35 points, holding every fan at Intuit Dome in his thrall with another dazzling display of his unmatched shooting skill.

In the fourth quarter of an elimination game, Draymond Green bodied up to Kawhi Leonard and utterly shut down one of the greatest scorers of their generation.

Curry and Green have already done it all and won it all during their 14 years and four championships together. The Golden State Warriors ' visit to the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night was merely a play-in game for the right to travel to Phoenix after a trying regular season that ended with Golden State sitting eight games below .500 and in 10th place in the Western Conference.

And yet both the style and substance of this 126-121 comeback victory indelibly evoked the brilliance of the Warriors' golden era.

The few remaining men who have been around for the whole ride were thrilled to travel back in time.

“For one night, we’re us. We’re champions again,” coach Steve Kerr said. “And I know that may sound crazy to everybody out there. It’s a play-in game. I don’t care. Just absolutely beautiful to watch.”

Curry put it even more simply: “That’s what you live for right there."

Golden State overcame a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter behind Curry, who scored 27 points in a dominant second half. While he took care of the offense, Green took the defensive lead with a smothering effort against Leonard, who couldn't score in the fourth quarter until the Clippers were cooked.

The Warriors also got stellar contributions from two newcomers. Kristaps Porzingis had 20 points, five rebounds and five assists with an exciting series of big plays — and 39-year-old Al Horford shocked the entire arena when he hit four 3-pointers in the fourth quarter of just his third game since missing a month with a strained right calf.

Curry broke a tie with his final 3-pointer, falling into the front row of Clippers fans while the ball pierced the net with 50 seconds left. The superstar was playing just his fifth game since returning from a 27-game absence with a knee injury, and he demonstrated exactly why he rejected any notion that he should shut himself down for the summer.

“This is what you work all year for, all summer, offseason,” Curry said. “We’re not guaranteed a (playoff) series yet, but these nights make everything worth it, because you feel the anxiety of having to perform when the lights are bright, do-or-die game. ... Considering how our season has gone, all the injuries and all that, for us to play the way we did tonight was special.”

Green didn’t score in the fourth quarter, but the Warriors credited their defensive stopper for stifling Leonard, whose play for Toronto in the 2019 NBA Finals is still painful in the minds of Golden State fans.

With Green hounding his every move, Leonard got only two shots in the fourth quarter. Leonard finished with 21 points while having a fraction of his usual impact on Clippers games.

Leonard called Green a “Hall of Fame defender. It was hard to even get shots up.”

Green thought the Warriors could be a title contender going into this season, but it didn't happen. Jimmy Butler went down for the season in January, Moses Moody was sidelined in March, and Golden State finished the regular season on a 5-15 skid to its worst record in a full regular season since 2012.

But after knocking off Los Angeles, Golden State is one win away from making the playoffs anyway. Even for the Warriors who have already won everything, the chance to do the improbable is irresistible.

“I know we’re not satisfied,” Curry said. “We want to go to Phoenix and guarantee a playoff series against OKC. That’s the next goal, but for us to lock in on just 48 minutes, figure out how to get a win, knowing that the game was not going to be perfect, we were all pretty committed to that. The eight guys that got on the floor all had a part in making it happen.”

___

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

In vintage Steph Curry and Draymond Green fashion, the Golden State Warriors eliminated the Los Angeles Clippers with a thrilling comeback win in the play-in tournament, 126-121.

Wednesday's contest featured multiple Golden State staples — an explosive Curry flurry in the third quarter and a vintage Green defensive performance against Kawhi Leonard in the fourth quarter. Yet, it wasn't just Curry and Green; Golden State newcomers Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis each left their fingerprints all over their season-saving victory over the Clippers. Porzingis helped spark the Warriors' offense throughout the game with a pair of rim-rocking dunks and timely shots. While Horford drilled four 3-pointers in the fourth quarter.

After the Warriors punched their ticket to the next round of the play-in tournament, spectators on social media exploded with reactions. Here's a look at what different fans, writers and analysts were saying on X on Wednesday night.

STEPH CURRY GIVES THE WARRIORS THE LEAD!

GSW 120
LAC 117

50.4 TO PLAY IN A MUST-WIN GAME 🍿 pic.twitter.com/HgYTHtLlOp

— NBA (@NBA) April 16, 2026

New chain for SC30! pic.twitter.com/Q6aQYpK977

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 16, 2026

Steph Curry: The greatest show in sports. Still.

— Danny Emerman (@DannyEmerman) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green master class

— Grant Liffmann (@GrantLiffmann) April 16, 2026

Go plant some trees

— Brian Witt (@Wittnessed) April 16, 2026

30 pic.twitter.com/k9ZY6lkRBM

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

This is unbelievable.

Draymond Green completely shut down Kawhi Leonard in the 4th quarter. The Claw is scoreless in the 4th.

— Bonta Hill (@BontaHill) April 16, 2026

Dray turning back the clock to make big time stops down the stretch

— AJ S (@saelee0) April 16, 2026

IN STEPH WE TRUST

— Melissa (she/her)🍉 (@churameru) April 16, 2026

Draymond and Steph… never gets old.

— Saad (@saadgsw) April 16, 2026

Intuit is just Chase South just like SoFi is for the Niners 🤣

— Louisiana Dry Rub Stan Account (@christeauxpher) April 16, 2026

ERASED https://t.co/w0j1LLFKZApic.twitter.com/smUo22TiyL

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

MVP chants for Curry, old-school Warriors echoes for the team, and Golden State will live to fight another day. What an effort from this squad, given the injuries they've suffered.

Onto Phoenix where they'll play for the 8th seed in the Western Conference Playoffs.

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) April 16, 2026

I cannot believe what I just witnessed

— 🇿🇦Denver🇵🇸 (@doubledworth) April 16, 2026

Draymond it's games like this we'll remember you by

— Alex 👋 (@Dubs408) April 16, 2026

Oh

My

Goodness#dubnation

— Mark Willard (@Mark_T_Willard) April 16, 2026

HOW DID THEY FLIP THIS GAME UNBELIEVABLE @warriors

— Joe Shasky (@ButcherBoy415) April 16, 2026

Stephen Curry improves his record in elimination games to 11-5.

He finishes with 35 points tonight, including 27 in the 2nd half. Unreal performance

— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) April 16, 2026

Vintage Draymond Green defense down the stretch on Kawhi Leonard. Steph Curry scores 35 in 36 minutes. Al Horford hits four mammoth fourth quarter 3s. Kristaps Porzingis scores 20.

Veteran Warriors save their season in LA and face Suns on Friday for shot at the eighth seed.

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green's defense on Kawhi, Horford's heater - and Curry leading the way.

We'll see you Friday night in Phoenix. WOW!

— Bonta Hill (@BontaHill) April 16, 2026

Fun Fact: Steph and Porzingus have never lost a post game together.

— Warriors Huddle (@WarriorsHuddle) April 16, 2026

MOOD pic.twitter.com/dzVzUoNfxm

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

Awesome game. Steph was amazing, Draymond played at a DPOY level. Horford erupted in the 4th after a rough 1st half and Podz hung in and made some clutch plays down the stretch. Turns out they really really wanted to win this one. On to Phoenix.

— Dan Dibley (@dandibley) April 16, 2026

gonna enjoy these two while they're still here pic.twitter.com/IWulm4STyM

— Chris Montano (@gswchris) April 16, 2026

A podcaster just single-handedly ended the best season of Kawhi’s career.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

I’m never ever ever taking Steph Curry for granted.

— De🅿️ressed Warriors Fan 💔 (@GoIdenState) April 16, 2026

Warriors pull off an unbelievable comeback late in LA.
An absolute meltdown late by the Clippers. And a reminder that the Warriors' standard is never going to disappear as long as Curry and Green are on the floor. Steph was Steph. Porzingis and Horford were huge. Phoenix on Fri

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) April 16, 2026

STEPH CURRY VS THE CLIPPERS

🐐 pic.twitter.com/8ygzoKrZtm

— Guru (@DrGuru_) April 16, 2026

The Oklahoma City Thunder will now be in the lottery because of this Clippers loss. What have the Warriors just done.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

The Greatest Show in Sports Entertainment

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

New Jimmy Butler meme pic.twitter.com/GLSpHs9kwF

— Guru (@DrGuru_) April 16, 2026

No matter what happens from here, it was special to see the Warriors touch God one more time. Even if it was only for a few minutes at the end of a play-in game, that was very cool.

— Jay King (@ByJayKing) April 16, 2026

Dillon Brooks vs. Steph & Draymond sudden death game on deck. Everything is wrestling.

— Rob Perez (@WorldWideWob) April 16, 2026

These are the types of games that fans remember. This is why teams and players want to compete. This was meaningful basketball. #DubNation

— Dr. Nirav Pandya, M.D. (@DrNiravPandya) April 16, 2026

A Draymond and Steph absolute masterclass to earn the Warriors another game.

The 2 most important people in the Warriors dynasty fighting to the very end.

Championship level effort in the play-in.

You gotta love it.

— nick wright (@getnickwright) April 16, 2026

There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game. pic.twitter.com/uWrPUd1OTZ

— Nate Duncan (@NateDuncanNBA) April 16, 2026

No other team in my lifetime has delivered as many memorable high profile games and moments as Steph and Draymond’s Warriors. More than a decade into this and they still have nights like this in them.

— Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) April 16, 2026

Harlan on the call for Steph is magic pic.twitter.com/xFtqF6YcVj

— warriorsworld (@warriorsworld) April 16, 2026

Stephen Curry…..simply one of the greatest to ever play the game

— Dr. Nirav Pandya, M.D. (@DrNiravPandya) April 16, 2026

Absolute dawgs pic.twitter.com/UIoE3tTvuG

— 🇿🇦Denver🇵🇸 (@doubledworth) April 16, 2026

CHRIS PAUL’S INSTAGRAM STORY LMAOOOOOO pic.twitter.com/EDXOMqBhr8

— 30🅿️roblemz (@30problemz) April 16, 2026

Draymond Green locking up Kawhi Leonard in the 4th quarter pic.twitter.com/tPPX9yoVIp

— Hater Report (@HaterReport) April 16, 2026

The greatest point guard of all-time. No debate. pic.twitter.com/r1YrxFuyg8

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 16, 2026

This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!

This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Social media explodes with reactions to Warriors' win over Clippers

Falkirk reportedly want to sign St Mirren's Scott Tanser as Sivert Heltne Nilsen reveals his reasons for leaving Aberdeen.

Falkirk are eyeing a move for Scott Tanser from fellow Scottish Cup semi-finalists St Mirren, making the 31-year-old one of their top summer targets. (Daily Record)

While Celtic are considering a move for former Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, Levante hold the option to extend the 34-year-old's deal by a further year beyond this summer. (Football Insider)

Hibernian still hope to lure on-loan Dan Barlaser back to Easter Road when the 29-year-old midfielder's Middlesbrough contract ends this summer, but Elie Youan will exit the Leith club along with fellow forward Martin Boyle. (Edinburgh Evening News)

Hibs head coach David Gray is not surprised to see Miguel Chaiwa attracting interest from rival clubs, including repeated speculation linking the 21-year-old midfielder with a move to Celtic. (Edinburgh Evening News)

Rangers winger Oscar Cortes says cutting short his loan to Sporting Gijon for a similar move to Huracan in Argentina was the best decision he could have made. (WIN Sports)

In switching from Sporting Gijon to Huracan, Rangers winger Oscar Cortes utilised a special exemption to Fifa regulations that do not allow players to represent more than two teams in the same season as the 22-year-old was joining a club whose fixture schedule runs at a different time to his previous team. (AS Colombia via Daily Record)

• Thursday's English & European transfer rumours
• Wednesday's Scottish Gossip
• Falkirk boss McGlynn eyes pinnacle of cup final

Sivert Heltne Nilsen says he left Aberdeen because Haugesund offered him a contract - three years with a potential coaching role beyond that - he could not refuse and it came with the promise of more regular starts and in the 34-year-old's favoured central midfield role. (Daily Record)

Viljami Sinisalo says an agreement to have more Celtic game time this season was shelved during management changes this season - until the injury and form decline to fellow goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel pushed the 24-year-old into the first team. (The Herald)

Former Celtic coach Darren O'Dea says Bournemouth and Scotland winger Ben Gannon-Doak felt he was being held back by the Scottish champions' "duty of care" despite being handed his first-team debut at 16 - and that the 20-year-old is a "generational talent". (The Margins)

Brazil president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has revealed that national head coach Carlo Ancelotti sought his counsel over whether to recall 34-year-old Santos forward Neymar for this summer's World Cup, at which his side will face Scotland. (Football Transfers)

Heart of Midlothian are awaiting the scan results on defender Oisin McEntee's suspected hamstring injury - after the verdict came back in Spanish. (Edinburgh Evening News)

Hibs midfielder Josh Mulligan is "running out of weeks" to make his return from injury this season, but head coach David Gray thinks there is a "strong possibility" the Scotland international could still play. (Edinburgh Evening News)

Haiti players have been handed a £2m bonus from their government for qualifying for the World Cup, where they are in the same group as Scotland. (The National)

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta discussed how Baltimore approaches its later-round draft strategy, noting that while the team often leans on a best-player-available model, there are situations where positional context and roster decisions can influence how selections are made.

DeCosta also pointed to the challenges of navigating the back end of the draft, where hit rates decrease, and options can become more limited.

"That's a great question. There's a lot of different ways to do that, and we've tried different ways. Some years you just basically, we've thought maybe just [to] target to quote 'premium positions' maybe. Other years we're just going strictly off the draft board, best [player] available, and then some years it's probably more nuanced. It's the positions that we haven't addressed. So, if we've drafted players at certain positions, then we get into the later rounds, and we're probably not going to double dip because we've already taken guys at those positions. So, there's a lot of ways to do it. I think there's been an increased reliance on analytics in some ways, and every team does it differently, and maybe every team does it differently every year. So, that's a hard part of scouting. There's been some years where we've been very excited to get a guy, like in the sixth round, seventh round, and you're literally one pick away, and he gets picked. Then you're kind of like looking up at the board going, 'Man, we don't like any of these guys that are left.' So, that's just, it is what it is, and someone's calling you and they see somebody they love, and they want to trade. Sometimes that's the best possible scenario, especially if you could trade a pick for a future pick in another draft class where you might get additional value, you might get a discount. So, it's a hard part, [and] it's a fun part of the draft. It's a challenge, certainly, percentage-wise to hit on those guys, especially when you get into the fifth, sixth and seventh round. The percentages really kind of plummet from the fourth round – fourth round, you're OK. [In the] fifth round, sixth round, seventh round, we see the percentages really kind of go down. So, when you can hit on a guy like that, it can really make your draft class."

For Baltimore, the late-round approach remains flexible, with DeCosta emphasizing both the difficulty of projecting success and the value of finding contributors in the final rounds.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta details Ravens approach in later draft rounds

Michael Edwards will have dreamt about the second coming of Roberto Firmino, now he's here and he's arrived at the perfect time in light of Hugo Ekitike's injury.

When he walked away from Anfield, everyone knew there’d never be another No.9 quite like Bobby. He was truly one of a kind.

Of course, the Brazilian could score goals, but that was never what defined him. What set him apart was his selflessness.

Rather than chasing the spotlight, Firmino became the heartbeat of the attack, linking everything together and bringing the best out of Mo Salah and Sadio Mané.

His intelligence, his movement, the way he dropped deep and opened up space, it all made Liverpool tick.

He played with humility, with flair, and always with that unmistakable smile. Firmino wasn’t just a great player he embodied the spirit of the team.

It’s no coincidence that, since he left, Liverpool have struggled to truly replace what he gave them.

What truly set Firmino apart, and what Liverpool are missing most right now, was his pressing.

Few players in the modern game matched his relentless energy. It’s no surprise Michael Edwards held him in such high regard, so much so that he even named his dog “Bobby” after him.

But Firmino’s pressing wasn’t just about effort for effort’s sake. It was intelligent, calculated, and perfectly timed.

He had a natural instinct for when to pounce, when to close down, cut passing lanes, and force errors at exactly the right moment.

In Klopp’s gegenpressing system, Firmino was the key. He was the piece that made everything click. He turned defensive pressure into attacking opportunities, helping Liverpool play their signature high-octane, “heavy metal” football.

Since his departure, there’s been a clear drop-off in Liverpool’s ability to suffocate teams and win the ball back high up the pitch. Under Arne Slot, that intensity, especially in pressing, just hasn’t been the same.

And now with Hugo Ekitike potentially being ruled out for over nine months, Liverpool have to turn towards the attack again.

Which gives them the perfect opportunity to find their next Firmino - who plays for Hoffenheim.

The German side is where Firmino first made his mark in Europe and right now they are also the club that has one of the best pressing systems in Europe's top five leagues this season.

Currently, Hoffenheim have the highest PPDA and the most pressing sequences in the Bundesliga as per Opta Analyst.

At the apex of this pressing machine is Fisnik Asllani, who is quickly developing a reputation as one of the most underrated attackers in the league - just like Firmino was.

Asllani has 19 goal contributions for Hoffenheim this season, averaging a goal or assist 0.81 per 90 minutes.

He is more than just an attacking player though. Like Firmino Asllani is comfortable with his back to goal, he's extremely technical and brilliant at linking up with his teammates.

On top of that he's a threat inside the box, who can latch onto crosses and cut-backs and play in tight spaces, coming up with creative solutions to open defences up.

© IMAGO - Fisnik Asllani Liverpool

Real Madrid’s Champions League elimination against Bayern Munich was defined by a storm of controversy in the closing minutes, with emotions spilling over as the game slipped out of their control. 

What had been a fiercely contested encounter quickly turned into a heated and chaotic finale, largely driven by one decisive refereeing call.

The flashpoint came when Eduardo Camavinga was shown a second yellow card for holding onto the ball after committing a foul. 

With the tie still hanging in the balance at that stage, the decision proved devastating. 

Reduced to ten men at a critical moment, Real Madrid lost their grip on the match, and within minutes, Bayern capitalised to deliver the knockout blow.

Dani Carvajal’s fury

The reaction from the Madrid camp was immediate and intense. 

Players surrounded the referee in disbelief, convinced that the decision had unfairly tilted the contest. 

Among those who could not hide his frustration was club captain Dani Carvajal. Although he did not feature on the pitch, Carvajal’s emotions boiled over from the sidelines. 

Cameras caught the defender confronting the referee in the aftermath of the decision, shouting, “This is all your f***ing fault,” as tensions escalated following the incident. 

The frustration did not stop there, as several key players made their feelings known after the match, each offering a glimpse into the dressing room mood after the final whistle. 

Eder Militao reportedly described the decision as unfair, while Antonio Rudiger said it was better not to speak in the heat of the moment. 

As for Camavinga himself, the midfielder left the area without addressing the media.

The sports front pages this Thursday, April 16, reflect a divided reality after a breathtaking European night. While the continent is still trying to process the "madness" seen on the pitch, Spanish newsstands show a complete split shaped by the Madrid-Barcelona axis.

In Spain, reality comes in a different color depending on where the newspaper is published. Marca and AS, from Madrid, are convinced that Camavinga’s action clearly changed the course of the match. "What an injustice!" leads Marca on the sending-off, while AS is blunt: "Until the referee wanted it."

Because in Barcelona, happiness is complete. Proof of that is Mundo Deportivo and Sport, which put Madrid’s debacle on the front page without hesitation. "White KO" and "Sent off" are the headlines they choose to start the day.

The contrast comes from Germany, where the local papers are bursting with happiness and joy. Kicker and Bild agree in their analysis of the match: "MADNESS". Meanwhile, Munich local paper Abendszeitung is very clear: "Thank you, Bayern!"

In the rest of Europe, prestigious outlets such as L'Équipe and Corriere Dello Sport agree on one common verdict: absolute madness. "Furious madness," headlines the French paper. Meanwhile, Tuttosport questions the refereeing. "Bayern and the referee knock out Real," the Italian paper highlights.

The international press highlights the unpredictability of modern football, surrendering to a spectacle that has left ties wide open and a level of intensity that is hard to match.

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

When an immovable object meets an unstoppable force, something has to break.

That is the dynamic awaiting fans when Japanese kickboxing star Kaito squares off against Armenian Marat Grigorian in a featherweight kickboxing clash at ONE SAMURAI 1, broadcasting live from Ariake Arena in Tokyo on Wednesday, April 29.

The contrast in styles could not be more distinct. Grigorian has built a terrifying reputation on suffocating, heavy-handed forward pressure. Kaito operates as a clinical tactician, a lightning-fast sniper who thrives on timing and precision.

Kaito acknowledges his opponent’s power but believes the Armenian’s aggression is a force that can be tamed.

He told onefc.com:

“I think he’s definitely one of the top fighters in the world, and his forward pressure, his physical strength [is dangerous], so I just want to overcome him and win. I think it’s his forward pressure. It’s very intense, and unless I break through that, I don’t think I can win. So I want to break it down.

“Honestly, if I had to say something, that’s really the main point. [His forward pressure is] both his biggest strength and weakness. From round one to round three, my speed, and sharpness, I don’t think Grigorian will be able to keep up with that, so I want to capitalize on those areas.”

Kaito sees a vulnerability within Grigorian’s forward-marching approach. Rather than retreat from the danger, he intends to plant his feet, set the trap, and make his opponent pay for every inch of forward momentum.

He said:

“Marat Grigorian is a very aggressive fighter, and he never stops moving forward. That’s why fans love his style. That is his great strength. But I think that is also his biggest weakness because if he is aggressive against me, I can catch him coming in. I think if he decides to attack, I can meet him in the middle and I can knock him out.”

A tactical, slow-paced affair seems unlikely. Kaito anticipates a firefight from the opening bell and steps into Ariake Arena with a definitive conclusion in mind.

He said:

“I think this fight will be very exciting and I believe our styles match up very well. Of course, I am confident I can beat him. Our styles guarantee an explosive fight, but I am supremely confident in my game plan. I think I will stop him in the second or third rounds. I am going for the knockout.”

Kaito’s Uncrackable Chin Faces Grigorian’s Ultimate Test

If Marat Grigorian manages to close the distance and land his signature power shots, he will test whether Kaito is as durable as advertised.

Despite spending years competing against elite competition, Kaito has never been knocked down or stopped. He is banking on that toughness to carry him through difficult stretches — and it is what makes his high-risk game plan viable.

He said:

“I’m not satisfied with my record. I’ve had nearly 70 fights, and I’ve lost 10. I’m not satisfied with that. But I’ve never been knocked down or knocked out, so I think that’s one of my strengths. What matters most to me is beating truly strong opponents. That’s always been my mindset. Beating the strongest, beating Grigorian — that’s all I’m focused on.”

Defeating Grigorian on home soil at ONE SAMURAI 1 represents more than another victory. For the perfectionist Japanese fighter, it is a necessary step toward validating his own greatness.

He said:

“It will not be easy, but I am going to finish him. I think this will be a very exciting fight, and I think it’s not going to go the distance. It’s going to be a good fight for the fans. But I see myself beating him, and knocking him out.”

Source

Football has long disproven the notion that you can't win anything with kids.

It turns out it doesn't just apply to players.

Just ask Llandudno, the north Wales club who this weekend will celebrate the end of an all-conquering campaign that will see them return to the top-flight Cymru Premier after a seven-year absence that included genuine fears over their future.

At the helm? A manager younger than the majority of the promotion-winning team he selects.

At just 24, Jordan Hadaway has orchestrated Llandudno's revival, sealing the second-tier Cymru North title in style - and is likely to be the youngest top-division boss in Europe next season.

Incredibly, he will do so with a decade of coaching experience already to his name - including a touch of Real Madrid mentoring.

• Llandudno set for Cymru Premier return after title
• The Championship striker 'out-performing' Harry Kane

'He had an aura about him'

It's an impressive CV for someone who would still be considered young if he was in the starting XI rather than selecting it.

But it's even more eye-catching given the circumstances in which this Gen Z gaffer got his break.

Back in 2023, Llandudno were unable to use their own ground, had seen their entire coaching staff walk out and didn't have enough players to field a side with the second-tier season just weeks away.

Perceived football wisdom suggests you look to an old head at times of crisis but Llandudno chairman Dave Guinn turned to a 21-year-old youth team coach.

"I don't think you could print some of the things that were said to me on social media when we appointed him," Guinn recalls.

"But there was a gut feeling. Jordan just had an aura about him, that he wasn't just talking the talk."

Hadaway might have wondered what he had got himself into, with the club's financial situation at the time described as "dire".

"The pitch had been condemned and we were £100,000 short of paying for a new pitch," Hadaway says, the club forced to play home games in Bangor and Conwy, money going out without coming in.

"There were no revenue streams, I was working unpaid because the FAW had taken the academy away so we were in a bit of turmoil.

"I was asked to step in and that I had a £400 budget – the lowest in the league – just to get a squad to start the season. And we had to pay a physio out of that.

"That's what makes staying up that year so special."

All a long way from the riches of the Bernabeu.

Not that Hadaway – inspired by his football-mad grandfather and whose parents are Everton season ticket holders – was going to take his place among the Galacticos.

An academy player at his local club in Holywell, he turned to coaching at 14 having decided he wasn't going to achieve what he wanted as a player and "didn't fancy refereeing".

It included working with the Real Madrid foundation - coaching their style of football on courses in the UK and Europe - and included a convention where he listened to coaching lectures from the likes of Roberto Carlos and Raul , while grabbing a selfie with Alvaro Arbeloa.

Hadaway laughs about whether the current Real boss has been in touch given the success at Llandudno which came after becoming a manager in the Welsh fifth-tier at 18, an assistant job in the Cymru Premier with Cefn Druids before finding his way to the Seasiders, where he also led the women's team to the Cymru North title in 2024 and only missed out on the top-flight after a play-off final defeat

• The Welsh teenager teaching the Real Madrid way

Nothing has stopped the men's side this year, though, with only seven points dropped from 29 games. At home, they have been flawless with 50 goals scored and only six conceded.

"At the start of the season we wanted to finish in the top four and better last year's points," he says, with sights now set on making Llandudno a top-flight mainstay.

"I didn't think we'd win the league, perhaps as a manager I didn't think I'd be experienced enough."

Guinn – who had the agonising wait of making sure promotion was secured by the award of a tier-one licence – said there were some doubts he was doing the right thing in placing such faith in youth.

"His age was a bit of a worry, whether he could control the dressing room," says the former player who was at the club when they faced Swedish giants IFK Goteborg just ten years ago.

"But he had an old head on young shoulders and I'm glad my gut was right."

Hadaway adds: "I wasn't naive when I was appointed. It wasn't so much the players, but others asking why the chairman would put his faith in me when the club could fold if we went down.

"I knew what people were going to say and think but I've always tried to be honest and open and it wasn't about trying to prove anything, just hard work and letting people see. If you treat people with respect it goes a long way

"I'm not without flaws and I don't have everything but I've surrounded myself with good people and I'm able to still learn."

Including during the day job as a PE teacher at a local sixth form, where he says there's not much between the boisterous nature of the classroom or the dressing room.

After all, as football has shown once again, age is just a number.

We are one week away from the 2026 NFL Draft. Who will the Washington Commanders pick with the No. 7 overall pick? That's a mystery, much of which stems from Washington's lack of control over it. The good news is that the Commanders will be able to land a high-quality player at a position of need.

Washington has visited with most of the top prospects in this class, many of whom play different positions. The Commanders' busy free agency period allows GM Adam Peters to focus on the best player available instead of forcing the pick at a position of need.

Many mock drafts have focused on Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, or LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane. There's a good chance at least two of these players will be available when Washington goes on the clock.

But what if the Commanders aren't interested in one of those players?

In his latest draft intel for Essentially Sports, NFL draft analyst Tony Pauline revealed that Washington would not take Downs if he made it to them at No. 7. Here's his explanation:

Most believe the team will not take Caleb Downs if the Ohio State safety is available to them. The team signed Nick Cross in free agency and still believes in Jartavius Martin despite a disappointing 2025 season. Those inside the building feel Martin’s upside is incredible and believe he can right the ship.

This is a bit shocking for multiple reasons. For one, Downs is a player many consider the top overall in the class. However, positional value could keep him from going as high as his talent suggests. Safety isn't considered a premium position in the NFL. However, Downs is not only an elite talent but a student of the game, who could be a green-dot player on Day 1 in the NFL.

Washington does have safeties on the roster. Quan Martin, newly signed Nick Cross, Will Harris, Jeremy Reaves, Percy Butler, Tyler Owens, and Robert McDaniel are on the current 90-man roster. But most shockingly, Pauline's revelation about the Commanders' confidence in Martin.

Martin was bad in 2025. His regression, as well as Mike Sainristil and Frankie Luvu's regression, was one of the top stories last season. But with new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones, everyone gets a clean slate. When he was hired, Jones spoke glowingly about Martin. Before last season, former defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. said he believed Martin could become one of the NFL's best safeties. Clearly, Peters and head coach Dan Quinn remain firm in their belief in Martin.

It will be interesting to see if the Commanders would actually pass on Downs if he falls in their laps at No. 7.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: NFL draft: Commanders to reportedly pass on Ohio State S Caleb Downs

Where to watch LOVB championship: Schedule, times, channel, live stream for 2026 volleyball finals originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

This year's League One Volleyball playoffs have not been without drama. Now it's down to Salt Lake and Austin, who will battle it out for a title this week.

Four teams entered the LOVB playoffs, but only two have kept their season alive. Both semifinals split the series, which led to intense "golden set" tiebreakers on either side. Austin prevailed over Atlanta by winning the first match in a sweep, and then the second 15-8 in the golden set. Salt Lake lost its first match to Houston 3-2, but rebounded for the 3-0 sweep and golden set win to advance. 

Austin won League One's inaugural championship last year, and now will try for back-to-back titles. This will be Salt Lake's first time in the league final.

Who will claim the ultimate prize?

Here's everything you need to know about the League One Volleyball championship, including TV channel and streaming options for the title matches.

Where to watch LOVB championship: TV channel, live stream

• TV channel: USA Network
• Live stream:DIRECTV

Both championship matches will be broadcast live on USA Network. Cord-cutters can also stream the action live on DIRECTV.

Catch every game – try DIRECTV FREE today! Stream live MLB, March Madness, soccer and more with must-have sports channels like TNT, TBS, truTV, ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—all included with DIRECTV.

Start your FREE trial now and never miss a moment of the action. No contracts, no hassle, just wall-to-wall sports and entertainment.

League One Volleyball championship start time

• Date: Thursday, April 16 | Saturday, April 18
• Time: 8 p.m. ET | 5 p.m. PT

The first championship match will take place on Thursday, April 16, followed by the final match on Saturday, April 18. Both will tip off at 8 p.m. ET from LBS Financial Credit Union Pyramid in Long Beach, California. 

League One Volleyball playoffs schedule, scores 2026

Here's a look at the game schedule for each day of the 2026 playoffs.

Fri., April 10 - Semifinal round

Sat., April 11 - Semifinal round

Sun., April 12 - Semifinal round

Thurs., April 16 - Championship round

Sat., April 18 - Championship round

LOVB standings 2026

Barcelona’s Champions League elimination has triggered a moment of harsh reflection within the club, with the sporting department already shifting focus towards what comes next. 

In that context, a report from AS confirms that the club’s sporting committee has begun evaluating the squad with ruthless clarity, knowing that improvements are essential if the team is to compete at the highest European level again.

The quarter-final defeat against Atletico Madrid did not just end Barcelona’s European hopes, it exposed key weaknesses in the squad. 

According to the outlet, among those under the spotlight are Marcus Rashford and Robert Lewandowski, two attackers whose performances have raised serious doubts behind the scenes.

Rashford’s situation

Rashford’s situation is particularly complex, as the English forward has shown flashes of brilliance since arriving. 

However, the decisive moments have repeatedly let him down. 

In the first leg, where he was handed a starting role, Rashford found himself in several promising positions but failed to convert, missing three clear opportunities that could have changed the tie entirely.

In the return leg at the Metropolitano, his reduced role did little to improve his case. 

Coming off the bench, Rashford struggled to influence the game, offering minimal impact at a time when Barcelona desperately needed attacking inspiration. 

Internally, there is a growing feeling that he has not passed the test in decisive matches. 

With Manchester United unwilling to compromise on a €30 million buy-back clause, Barcelona now face a difficult decision regarding his long-term future.

What about Lewandowski?

Lewandowski could leave Barcelona. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Lewandowski’s situation appears even more concerning. 

Once the focal point of Barcelona’s attack, the veteran striker is now facing increasing scrutiny over his ability to deliver in high-intensity fixtures. 

Against Atletico, his performance was widely viewed as ineffective, having failed to register a single clear-cut chance.

Furthermore, he did not test the goalkeeper meaningfully and struggled to link play with the rest of the team.

For a player of his calibre and experience, such a display has not gone unnoticed. 

At 37, questions about his physical level and suitability for elite competition are becoming harder to ignore. 

Given his well-known self-critical nature, there is also uncertainty over whether he would be willing to accept a reduced role and a lower salary moving forward.

As a result, one of the key conclusions emerging from the club’s internal review is that the club must sign a top-level centre-forward this summer. 

If that happens, it could end the Barcelona career of one of the two aforementioned names.

The NHL season wraps up today as contending teams will grind for the best postseason matchups possible. While the first round of the Eastern Conference playoff bracket is now set, the second and third seeds in the Pacific Division out West have yet to be finalized. The Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks and Los Angeles Kings are the few squads still looking to have their seeding decided. To come out like a Stanley Cup champion, here are tonight's best bets brought to you by BetOnline.org. Click here to join. All new players get a 50% welcome bonus and up to $250 in free bets. 

First Pick: Ducks Over 6.5 Goals

Rundown: The Anaheim Ducks (42-33-6) conclude their season against the Nashville Predators (38-33-10) at Bridgestone Arena.

Coming off a narrow 3-2 loss to Minnesota on Tuesday, Anaheim enters today's contest looking to regroup as they have their sights set on securing the No. 2 seed in the Pacific. Center Mason McTavish scored both goals for Anaheim, once on a power play during the first period and again on a tip-in as the clock in the third winded down to 45 seconds. Goalie Lukas Dostal finding his poise in the net again is key to the Ducks' chances after he conceded all three goals.

Meanwhile, the Predators will sit out this year's postseason following Monday's 3-2 loss to San José. Nonetheless, they will not hope to end their season passively. A win today could keep the Ducks in the Pacific's No. 3 seed and cement Edmonton's place just below the Golden Knights. 

With Anaheim eyeing a deep postseason run, expect them to step on the gas during the day that it matters most.

Second Pick: Kings Moneyline

Rundown: The Los Angeles Kings (35-26-20) cap off their season against the Calgary Flames (33-39-9) at Scotiabank Saddledome.

As with Anaheim, the Kings enter their season finale in a heated competition for the top-two remaining spots in the Pacific. In a slim 4-3 loss to the lesser Vancouver on Tuesday, Quinton Byfield and Alex Laferriere each tallied one goal and one assist. Adrian Kempe followed with a snap shot for the team's third goal. Defensively, goalie Darcy Kuemper thwarted 21 shots, but his efforts proved insufficient as the Canucks' Jake DeBrusk inflicted the dagger 2:58 into overtime. 

On the other hand, Calgary will miss the playoffs after they lost to Dallas in overtime, 4-3, nine days prior. In tonight's matchup, they will hope to play spoiler against the Kings' efforts to climb up from the No. 4 spot in the Pacific. Left winger Blake Coleman and goalie Dustin Wolf will aim to end their seasons on a high note after the former scored his 20th goal for the squad against Colorado while the latter stopped 36 shots.

With L.A. looking to redeem themselves from a humiliating defeat, expect them to unleash their full fury on the Flames. 

Hmm

Most

Involved

Manchester City host Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday in a title-deciding clash for the ages as both sides know the result could define their season.

In their last outing, City brushed past Chelsea to re-ignite the title race after Arsenal‘s defeat to Bournemouth. The result leaves Pep Guardiola‘s side six points adrift of the Gunners with a game in hand ahead of this weekend’s titanic battle.

After a relatively subdued first-half, it was Nico O’Reilly who once again stepped up to the plate, rising highest to nod home from Rayan Cherki‘s delicious cross in the 51st minute and hand City a deserved breakthrough.

The momentum quickly snowballed and just six minutes later, Cherki glided effortlessly beyond a sea of blue shirts before squaring for former Chelsea man Marc Guehi, who made no mistake with a composed, clinical finish to give his new club some breathing room.

“I’m hoping for Antoine” – Bournemouth’s Alex Scott makes title race wish after Arsenal win

Jeremy Doku pounced on a costly lapse from Moises Caicedo on the edge of the Chelsea area to cap off a commanding display, nicking possession and coolly slotting home his fifth goal of the campaign to put the result beyond any doubt.

Up next for Guardiola’s men is a fixture that could turn out to be season-defining. After months of being all but written off by many, City have the chance to draw themselves to within just three points of the summit as they ready themselves to host Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Here’s how we predict Manchester City will line up against Arsenal on Sunday evening-

Starting XI

Gianluigi Donnarumma kept his 12th clean sheet of his debut Premier League campaign on Sunday – only five keepers in Europe’s top five leagues have kept more.

The Italian has been crucial to Manchester City’s title hunt this season, with some of his finest performances coming in the biggest matches. If City are to come out of this one unscathed, Donnarumma will have to bring his A-game once again.

Matheus Nunes has been in the form of his life this term, so much so that his place in the squad is almost guaranteed in a game of this magnitude. Only Erling Haaland and Gianluigi Donnarumma have played more minutes for City this season.

The Portugal international grabbed himself an assist in the Carabao Cup final against Mikel Arteta’s side in March after missing out on the starting line-up in the same fixture at the start of the season.

His link-up play with Antoine Semenyo on the right flank was crucial in the 2-0 final win at Wembley – and more of the same this weekend would no doubt go a long way if City are to be crowned Premier League champions for a seventh time under Guardiola.

Arsenal struck by squad crisis as FIVE key names miss training with Man City showdown days away

In the centre of defence, the partnership of Abdukodir Khusanov and Marc Guehi has been rock-solid in their short time together so far. Khusanov continues to impress fans and win over even his harshest critics, seemingly making improvements game after game.

As for Guehi, his goal on Sunday coupled with yet another clean sheet showcased exactly why City were so desperate to beat everyone else for his signature. It’s no coincidence that City’s defence looked revitalised with the signing of the England international.

With O’Reilly having been withdrawn with an injury on Sunday, it looks as if Rayan Ait-Nouri could be in line to start. Ait-Nouri has been fantastic with limited minutes this season, his appearance from the bench against Chelsea was yet another showcase of his exceptional on-ball talent.

Whilst O’Reilly will no doubt be a huge miss if he is indeed not fit for Arsenal, there are very few better back-up options at full-back in the world than Ait-Nouri.

Rodri looked a step or two off the pace at times against Chelsea but even still, the Spaniard looked at ease with mostly everything the opposition could throw his way.

There is definitely a case to be made that Nico Gonzalez is deserving of more gametime than he’s seen recently but a game of this magnitude is probably not the one to disrupt the current status quo. A match of this scale is the perfect opportunity for Manchester City’s Ballon d’Or winner to show exactly what he’s made of.

Rayan Cherki needs no introduction. There simply aren’t enough superlatives in the world to do any justice to the Frenchman’s recent performances. After spending some time away from the starting squad, Cherki has won his spot in the XI on pure merit. With a brace of assists on the weekend, there may be no one better to break the often impenetrable Arsenal defence.

Captain Bernardo Silva is sure to be the man to lead the team out this weekend. In his final season at City, the 31-year-old has already lifted silverware once and with two more trophies on the line, he’ll be more hungry than anyone to get his hands on both.

Match Officials: Anthony Taylor to referee Manchester City vs Arsenal

As if he wasn’t already guaranteed a place as a Manchester City legend, turning the tide here and bringing home a title that at one point looked impossible would surely cement Silva as an all-time great.

Antoine Semenyo may have gone goalless in the last match but it never feels like goals are far away when the former Bournemouth man is on the pitch.

Semenyo has yet to score against Arsenal in his career but in his last appearance against the Gunners, he gave Piero Hincapie plenty to think about down the right flank and he’ll surely look forward to more of the same on Sunday.

Who else but Erling Haaland up front? The Norwegian may have faced some criticism over his goalscoring form in recent times but it would never be wise to bet against him. If anyone knows that it takes to break the deadlock against the toughest defence in the league, it’s Erling Braut Haaland.

Jeremy Doku bagged his fifth goal of the campaign, his 14th goal involvement in all competitions, at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

The Belgium forward admitted after the match that he’d like to be amongst the goals more often as well as stating his belief that the title race is well and truly on. There are few scarier prospects as a footballer than a fired-up Doku running at you for 90 minutes.

Starting XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Khusanov, Guehi, Ait-Nouri; Rodri, Bernardo, Cherki; Semenyo, Haaland, Doku

Substitutes: Trafford, Ake, Nico, Kovacic, O’Reilly, Reijnders, Foden, Savinho, Marmoush

Ryan Garcia is rededicated to boxing and looking to stay active.

A couple months ago, Garcia pummeled Mario Barrios to capture the WBC Welterweight title in a stunning performance (watch here). It was the performance many have been hoping for from the oft-troubled “King Ry,” and he earned world champion status as a result. There’s still a ton of major opportunity for the talented 27-year-old pugilist, who’s been trading barbs with Shakur Stevenson ever since beating up Barrios.

Despite that ongoing beef, Garcia is looking to go in another direction for his next bout. While streaming, Garcia announced his next fight, claiming that he’ll be fighting Conor Benn in Las Vegas, Nevada this coming August.

“It’s going to be in August,” Garcia answered of his next bout. “We’re gonna have it in Vegas. His name’s Conor Benn, from the UK … We’re gonna eat that up. Conor’s about to get blasted.”

Just a few days ago, Conor Benn made good on his controversial $15 million signing with Zuffa Boxing, defeating Regis Prograis via decision on Netflix. Most fans and fellow boxers were not impressed by the performance, but Benn still returns to free agency as a much richer man riding a nice win streak.

Of course, Ryan Garcia announcing the fight on a stream is not the same as an official signed contract. Garcia seemed confident, however, and it would be a very high-profile matchup between two of Welterweight’s top young stars. It’s an easy sell that makes plenty of sense, so stay tuned for official confirmation (or not) and further details in the days to come.

A captain's header, an overhead kick, a controversial decision, a saved penalty, a goalmouth scramble and three different teams in bottom spot.

All of this happened across two matches in the final six minutes of the Irish Premiership season in 2016, and it flipped the relegation battle on its head.

Miguel Chines' spectacular injury-time finish, as well as late controversy at Milltown, kept Carrick Rangers in the top flight and sent Warrenpoint Town down.

On Saturday, Crusaders take on Glenavon in what is set to be a tense relegation battle at Mourneview Park.

But 10 years ago, was Carrick's great escape the most dramatic conclusion to a relegation battle in history?

The background

Four teams headed into the final day of the Irish Premiership season with the threat of relegation, with the bottom team facing the drop to the second tier and the 11th place side forced into a play-off against a Championship club.

Portadown started the day in ninth, and thanks to their routine 2-0 win at Ballymena United, we don't need to worry about them in this iconic final day.

Carrick Rangers faced Ballinamallard, while Warrenpoint Town hosted Dungannon Swifts, who were already well clear of danger.

Carrick were bottom of the table and one point off Warrenpoint in 11th, while Ballinamallard were in 10th and out of the drop zone, again by one point.

Heading into the final 10 minutes, Warrenpoint put themselves in a strong position when Stephen Hughes put them into the lead, while former Northern Ireland international Ivan Sproule had put the Mallards in front at Carrick.

It was all rather sedate and low key, and as the minutes ticked down it looked certain like Carrick would be relegated and Warrenpoint would face the relegation play-off.

The six minutes that changed everything

"There's still a lot that can change in this game," co-commentator Chris Morgan said on Radio Ulster in the 87th minute.

It was a mystic prediction from the former Glentoran striker, who himself famously scored a late title-deciding goal against Linfield in 2005.

Less than two minutes after his comment, a deep free-kick was played to the back post and Mark Surgenor rose highest to hammer a header into the back of the net.

At that point Carrick were still bottom, but it gave them hope. Warrenpoint were still leading and moved above Ballinamallard into automatic safety.

But few could have predicted what would have happened next as Chines acrobatically scored a superb winner for Carrick in the 91st minute.

"At a younger age, you always try those silly things, right?," Portugal-born striker Chines told BBC Sport NI.

"But the older you get, if you try it, you're always going to end up hurting your back or something.

"I just threw my leg at it, there was nothing else I could do because the ball was slightly behind me."

Chines said it was "instinct" to try the acrobatic effort, and he did not think about his options as the ball was headed back across goal by Aaron Traynor.

"As a striker, I always thought it's an instinct thing inside the box. You have literally a second, if that, for you to actually finish a chance.

"I had no other option and, luckily enough, I actually managed to connect with it."

Chines' goal sparked wild celebrations as the players ran to the crowd behind the goal - except for Chines who just dropped to the turf in relief.

Not only had he saved his team from relegation, but there was personal relief too as he had made a big contribution when he had been struggling for game time, largely due to a new job he had taken up in the new year that had limited how much he could train.

"It was like a relief over five to six months of not getting any joy from football because of work and everything else.

"And then there was more of a relief that we might be able to even see it out. It was probably the best feeling I've had in football."

As things stood, Carrick were 11th and facing a play-off and Ballinamallard were bottom, but there was more drama to come.

Controversy, controversy, controversy

Meanwhile at Milltown, where play was a few minutes behind Carrick, Warrenpoint still looked set to remain in the top flight and Ballinamallard would have faced the drop.

But everything changed again.

The clock had just ticked into injury-time when Dungannon's Cormac Burke collided with Jordan Dane in the area after a Swifts corner was cleared.

It looked for all the world that it should have been a free-kick to the hosts, but referee Ross Dunlop pointed to the spot.

The drama wasn't over there.

Ryan Harpur's effort was saved by Jonathan Parr, and the goalkeeper produced another superb save to deny Andrew Mitchell from the follow-up.

Harpur's header was then superbly kept off the line, but Mitchell hammered home at the fourth time of asking to leave Warrenpoint crestfallen - and furious.

Six minutes earlier they were staying in the top flight. All of a sudden they were dealing with automatic relegation on goal difference.

Ballinamallard fell into the play-off, which they would go on to win against Institute, while Carrick retained their top-flight status.

"Our team was outstanding, we done everything we needed to win the game and it was taken off us by a third party," said a furious Warrenpoint manager Gray.

For Morgan, he said he was left "stunned" by how the final few minutes played out.

"It was an incredible finish, and then the drama with what happened at Warrenpoint," he said.

"What a way to secure your future for another year in the Premiership."

Chines remembers then Carrick boss Gary Haveron comparing it to Sergio Aguero's famous title-deciding goal for Manchester City in 2012. The stage may not have been as big but the drama was just as high, and the striker described it as "draining", both physically and emotionally.

"I'm sure if you ask the boys at Man City, they would rather have been three or four goals up at half-time, rather than having a mini heart attack every 10 minutes and wondering what may happen.

"But it was an experience that we will never forget and we're always going to remember that day.

"We weren't aware what was happening in the other game, you can only take care of what's in front of you.

"We just needed the three points which we managed to get. After that, it was party time and we just made memories with the boys."

Al Nassr took another step towards the Roshn Saudi League title with a gritty 1-0 home victory against at Al Ettifaq on Wednesday night.

The league leaders, last champions in the 2018-19 season, extended their advantage at the summit to eight points thanks to Kingsley Coman’s 31st-minute winner at a packed Al Awwal Park.

The win, a club record-extending 15th in the RSL, keeps Al Nassr’s hunt for the top-flight trophy firmly on track, although nearest rivals Al Hilal, and Al Ahli in third - the Asian champions are 10 points back - do have a game in hand as they have this week contested the AFC Champions League Elite.

Al Nassr had numerous chances to seal a more comprehensive result, but for some fine goalkeeping from Al Ettifaq No.1 Marek Rodak, the woodwork, and some frustrating finishing from the hosts. The visitors also had Jack Hendry sent off in injury-time for a foul on Joao Felix.

Afterwards, Al Nassr manager Jorge Jesus confirmed Cristiano Ronaldo had played through illness, the club captain substituted in the final minute of normal time having been dealing with a stomach issue.

Chasing a record-equalling third RSL golden boot, Ronaldo had failed to add to his 24 league goals this season. As such, he remains two behind second-placed Julian Quinones, of Al Qadsiah, and three back from the frontrunner, Al Ahli’s Ivan Toney.

Ronaldo did, though, have a hand in the winner: it was his long-range effort just after the half hour that Rodak could only parry, leaving summer signing Coman to pounce on the rebound to round the Slovakia international and slot into the empty net.

Ronaldo, 41, later hit the post and had an effort cleared brilliantly off the line by Hendry.

Speaking afterwards, Jesus said of the five-time Ballon d'Or: “I was thinking of not including him; he wasn't in good shape. He was suffering from stomach pains and a general feeling of fatigue and, when I substituted him, he went straight to the dressing room and threw up.”

However, posting later on social media, Ronaldo said: “[Three more points]. Great energy in the stands.”

Jesus certainly concurred, the 2023-24 title-winner with Al Hilal dancing a little jig in front of the Al Nassr faithful at the final whistle.

“Today, our stadium was in an exceptional and wonderful atmosphere,” he said. “And our fans have become more and more convinced of the possibility of achieving the goal, and they gave us tremendous energy throughout the match.

“Al Nassr is not used to winning titles, especially the Saudi League, so the players have started to feel that we are approaching the goal - and the fans have also begun to believe that we are close to achieving it.”

Three of Al Nassr's final five RSL matches come against teams directly below them in the table, with home matches against Al Ahli and Al Hilal and a trip to fourth-placed Al Qadsiah.

Arsenal secured a place in the semi-finals of the Champions League last night following a goalless draw with Sporting CP at Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners headed into the second-leg of their quarter-final tie following a 1-0 victory in Portugal last week, and manager Mikel Arteta will be delighted.

However, the Arsenal boss could have a huge injury concern heading into the Premier League game against Manchester City on Sunday.

The North Londoners could be without Noni Madueke after he was spotted limping heavily at full-time following a knee issue in the second-half.

The Arsenal star was taken off in the 63rd minute for Max Dowman after going down injured, and while he was in good spirits and did not look concerned about his knee after the game, he might have picked up a big injury.

Tests and scans later this week will determine the severity of the knock, but Gunners fans would not be surprised if he is ruled out of the trip to the Etihad Stadium this weekend.

Arsenal are desperate to return to winning ways in the league following the defeat to Bournemouth last Saturday, and they need their injured players back.

Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber missed the game last night and it remains to be seen whether anyone of them will be back for the potential title-decider against Man City.

While Arsenal have kept eight clean sheets in 12 Champions League matches and conceded just five goals, the match on Sunday will be a truer test of their defensive capabilities.

They have kept 27 clean sheets in all competitions and shutting out Man City will be huge.

The Gunners also have to be the better team in attack this weekend if they want to leave Manchester with all three points, and Arteta will hope Madueke is fit enough to feature.

On a chilly, rain-soaked October afternoon in 1995, when the skies over South Bend mirrored the intensity of one of college football’s greatest rivalries, Notre Dame Fighting Irish football welcomed the fifth-ranked USC Trojans football to town. The Trojans arrived with the spotlight, the swagger, and the expectations—but Notre Dame had something else in mind.

There was a different energy in the air that day. You could feel it in the stands, hear it in the roar of the crowd, and see it in the way the Irish took the field—focused, physical, and ready to prove something. This wasn’t just about rankings. It was about pride. It was about defending home turf. And it was about reminding everyone what Notre Dame football is all about.

What unfolded over the next four quarters wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. A team that had been questioned just weeks earlier rose up, dominated on both sides of the ball, and delivered one of the most complete performances of the season.

Here’s a look back at a defining performance that turned a chilly, drizzly day into a decisive and unforgettable 38–10 victory for Notre Dame . . .

The following excerpt is from the 1995 Football Review in Scholastic Magazine (Vol. 137, No. 11), written by Jake Schaller.

IRISH HORSE

The Irish snuck up on the nation’s number five team, whipping the men of Troy 38-10 in their best performance of the season.

By Jake Schaller

An Open Letter to the Notre Dame Football Team

Dear Lou and the boys:

I would like to publicly apologize. I admit it. I thought you guys would lose to the Trojans of Southern Cal.

Well, as long as I’m writing this, I had better come clean. I thought you had no chance. I thought USC would wipe the rain off the field with your uniforms and then run up and down the field on you. I thought that Keyshawn would strike that Heisman pose in the end zone all day. I thought Robinson and his Men of Troy would finally end that pesky streak of non-victories in style.

And could anyone not suiting up for the Blue and Gold on that October day feel any differently? I mean this is a team that came inches away, literally, from losing to Army! And now number five USC was rolling into town? Please.

✦

OCTOBER 21, 1995 — NOTRE DAME, IN
In one motion, a reborn Irish squad shocked the nation, turned in their best game of the season, threw themselves into the hunt for a major bowl and eliminated a national championship contender. That very smooth motion was the USC game, a story in domination.

On two October 21st possessions, the Notre Dame football team took a huge step towards becoming a great team instead of only a good one.

After a shocking first quarter in which the Irish thoroughly dominated the fifth-ranked Trojans, and less than six minutes of an equally impressive second quarter, all Notre Dame had to show for its efforts was a one-point deficit.

The Irish defense had just sent the Trojans to the sidelines without points for the third time in three tries during the game when a series of events that most watching thought would spell disaster actually brought out the character of this Irish squad.

Junior Scott Sollman caught John Stonehouse’s punt, and USC’s Jesse Davis jarred the ball loose. His teammates recovered, giving the Trojans the ball on the Irish 17-yard line. Two plays later, Keyshawn Johnson caught a pass on an out pattern, slipped out of an Allen Rossum tackle and pranced into the end zone.

A successful extra point, a feat Kevin Kopka was unable to pull off earlier, put the Trojans up 7-6.

But just as the television audience and fans at Notre Dame Stadium began to roll their eyes and think to themselves, “Here we go again,” the Irish came right back. The fumble could have sparked a Columbus-esque turnover-fest. But the Irish shrugged off the turnover just as they had the rain and the cold, which bothered the visiting Trojans all day.

An offsides and an illegal procedure penalty on the Trojans gave the Irish the ball at the USC 40. An 8-yard Autry Denson run and a 15-yard center screen to Denson got the drive going. Then a highlight reel block by fullback Marc Edwards on defensive end Israel Ifeanyi, which later appeared in Sports Illustrated, allowed Powlus to sneak out of trouble and scramble for six. Edwards and Denson then shared seven of the next eight carries, taking the Irish down the field before Edwards scored from two yards out.

Maybe even more impressive was that the eighth carry was made by Powlus. Criticized for his inability to run the option effectively, Powlus had asked Holtz to run it more in practice. “I said, ‘Coach, I don’t mind running the option if you want to run it,'” he recalled. Practice didn’t make perfect, but it made it at the very least effective, giving the Irish another weapon. “We felt we had to run a little bit of option,” Holtz said.

Edwards, who staked his claim for player of the game honors with his 82 yards, three touchdowns and tremendous blocking, also showed his athleticism on a crazy two-point conversion attempt that put the Irish up 14-7. Edwards took a pitch right, ran and then pulled up. He looked for Mayes and back to Powlus, who he thought was covered. Doing his best Fran Tarkenton imitation, the big fullback reversed his field and danced away from the defenders. He then headed for the left corner of the end zone. The man covering Powlus had to commit to Edwards, who then calmly lofted the ball to Powlus.

“The two-point conversion was a well-executed play,” Edwards said. “I got great blocking from the line and USC took the bait. Ron was wide-open in the corner of the end zone.”

The second series in which the Irish grew up came just before halftime. Denson had just given the Irish a 21-7 lead with a 4-yard touchdown run off of a delay. But the Trojans wanted to notch another touchdown before the last 41 seconds of the first half evaporated. Good field position and two long strikes gave USC the ball at the Notre Dame 5-yard line with only 19 seconds to go. Shades of the Ohio State game, in which the Buckeyes tabbed a momentum-changing touchdown just before half, danced through the heads of Irish faithful.

Quarterback Kyle Wachholtz tried unsuccessfully to hit Johnson on corner patterns three times, but an interference penalty on the first of the three tries had given the Trojans the ball on the Notre Dame 2-yard line. On third and goal from the two, Wachholtz tried to go over the middle. Inside linebacker Lyron Cobbins batted the ball and USC running back Rodney Sermons collected it, but was swarmed short of paydirt as time expired. Momentum saved. “That was tremendous,” Edwards said of the stand. “That was a huge boost.” Powlus agreed: “The defense, they won the game.”

Notre Dame continued to slosh through the soaked Trojans in the second half of play. But tenacity and a little Fighting Irish luck kept the Trojans at arm’s length.

The defense had to step up first. Powlus, perhaps because of the wind, underthrew Mayes to start the second half, and the ball was intercepted. Backed up to their own thirty, the Irish defense allowed the Trojans to advance to the six but then slammed the door. USC settled for a field goal.

Later in the third quarter, the Trojans’ Larry Parker took a Hunter Smith punt at his own 41. He ran straight up the middle before breaking to the right sideline. Enter Irish luck. His jaunt, which ended in the end zone, would have been a game-breaking play, save for a little yellow hanky. An illegal block on USC brought the ball back.

The defense stepped up again later in the third quarter, after Kopka missed a chance to put the game away with a 29-yard field goal. This miss, however, provided one of the most striking visual images of the season. Intercepting Kopka as he made his way back to the sideline, Mayes grabbed the freshman to ensure eye contact, and spoke to him for over a minute.

In the fourth quarter, the Irish iced the game. Kory Minor crumpled Wachholtz in the end zone for a safety, Powlus threw a touchdown pass, and Edwards notched his third touchdown of the game.

The spectacular plays, however, could not overshadow what was without a doubt the best, most complete win of the Irish season. After the game, USC coach John Robinson couldn’t even point to a single play as the turning point. “There’s really not much to say,” he said. “We played bad, Notre Dame played good. It was a matter of their ability to run at us and our inability to make plays on third down. They had a good plan, they executed it, and they overwhelmed us.”

The Trojans seemed upset by the cold, rainy weather, while the Irish fed off of it. The offensive line pushed the Trojan defense out of the way, and Irish backs exploited it for 216 rushing yards. “[Edwards] was a real tough runner, and he was running behind a great offensive line,” senior linebacker Scott Fields said. “They were easily the best offensive line we have faced this year. Not only are they big, but they are athletic and they were able to execute today.”

The line also gave Powlus plenty of time to turn in a solid performance. Not flashy, with huge numbers, but effective, the way Holtz likes it. The junior completed 18 passes in 29 tries for 189 yards and a nifty 2-yard flip to tight end Pete Chryplewicz.

After Notre Dame struggled against Army’s option wizardry, questions abounded before the USC game. But starting with Tatum’s mammoth hit, the Irish forced three turnovers and put the game away with a safety. Cobbins, who in two years had no interceptions, picked off two, returning one 37 yards. “We worked on pass drops during practice all week,” he explained. “We played our best to get the big plays we needed to produce a win.” Bert Berry contributed a drive-killing tackle, and Kory Minor a safety in a fine all-around effort by Notre Dame’s standout linebacking core.

Of all those certain of a USC victory, the Trojans themselves might have been the most cocksure. Pregame comments from the “Men of Troy” incited Irish fury. “Some people can do it with their mouth, and we proved that we could do it by action,” said Mayes.

✦

So please accept my apology. I promise to stop talking about that Army game. I guess it was midterm week. Thanking you in advance, Doubting Schaller

P.S. Lou, loved the tight end screen, the middle screens and the whole defensive plan. The play calling was as good as it has been in the past three years—great job. Which reminds me, no offense, but you being in the press box isn’t so bad after all.

On a cold and rainy day in South Bend, the Irish didn’t just beat a top-five opponent—they rediscovered who they were. Tough. Physical. Unshaken. They played with a grit and determination that couldn’t be measured by rankings or statistics, only felt in every hit, every drive, and every stand.

This was a team that had been questioned, tested, and pushed to the edge just weeks before—but instead of breaking, they responded. They answered with effort, execution, and a belief in one another that showed up from the opening snap to the final whistle.

It was more than a win over USC. It was a statement. A reminder that when Notre Dame football leans into its identity—when it plays with heart, discipline, and purpose—anything is possible.

And on that gray October afternoon in 1995, the Irish didn’t just rise to the moment… they owned it.

Cheers & GO IRISH!

The Chargers have welcomed several new players via free agency this spring.

The Chargers' biggest signing was center Tyler Biadasz to a three-year, $30 million contract. Biadasz will replace Bradley Bozeman on the line, who announced his retirement in the offseason.

The new Chargers center will wear No. 63.

The Bolts also added speed in the backfield with the addition of running back Keaton Mitchell. The former Baltimore Raven will sport No. 34.

Another free agent the Chargers welcomed with a Baltimore connection was tight end Charlie Kolar, who will wear No. 88 for the Bolts.

Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is familiar with a pair of new additions in fullback Alec Ingold and guard Cole Strange, both of whom previously played for the Miami Dolphins.

The Chargers also signed defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, who was released by the Arizona Cardinals. He will wear No. 94 with the Bolts.

In late March, the Chargers signed guard Kayode Awosika. He spent the last four seasons playing for the Detroit Lions and was a part of one of the best offensive lines in the league.

New Chargers numbers:

G Kayode Awosika - 74
FB Alec Ingold - 49
TE Charlie Kolar - 88
RB Keaton Mitchell - 34
C Tyler Biadasz - 63
G Cole Strange - 69
DT Dalvin Tomlinson - 94

— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) April 15, 2026

While the Chargers addressed some needs via free agency, they will have to cement the roster during the NFL draft at the end of the month.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers reveal numbers for new players

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said he is excited for two ‘magical’ Champions League semi-final ties against Atletico Madrid.

Arsenal booked their place in the last four after a goalless draw with Sporting CP at the Emirates on Wednesday, a result that sealed a 1-0 aggregate success. The North Londoners have reached the Champions League semi-finals for the second straight season, a club first.

Arteta’s side will take on Atletico Madrid for a place in the final, after the Spanish side upset compatriots Barcelona in the quarter-finals.

The Arsenal manager is relishing the challenge and urged the club’s fans to relish the occasion.

Asked about his pride at Arsenal’s consecutive semi-finals, Arteta said in his post-match press conference” “My message was gratitude to them. I know the effort, the commitment that they put in.

“There’s been a lot of work behind it, we’ve done something that has never been done in the history of our club in 140 years, so that tells you the difficulty of that.

“We have had to do it as well in a very special way, missing a lot of important players, so big credit for that.

“I’m especially happy for our supporters because they were right behind the team today and we’re going to have two magical nights, one in Madrid and another one here in London against Atletico, so I’m very proud of them.”

Read – Iraola backed for Newcastle job with surprise second-favourite

See more – Manchester United blow as Maguire banned for Chelsea clash

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Chelsea are considering a move for Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix as the Blues look to bring in defensive reinforcement this summer, per the Daily Mail.

Chelsea desperately need a physical, aggressive, and dominant presence at centre-half. They are missing a leader who can organise the backline.

In the absence of Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, and Mamadou Sarr have not lived up to expectations.

The Blues need a defensive makeover, and one of the names on their shortlist is Lacroix, who has been turning heads since arriving in the league at the beginning of last season.

Lacroix has won 61 percent of his aerial and 61% of his ground duels in 29 league appearances this term. He has also helped his side keep 10 clean sheets.

While Lacroix, who has been lauded as a ‘leader‘, is not the cleanest progressive passer or carrier, he is more than decent on the ball.

However, after losing Marc Guehi in January, the Eagles might be reluctant to let the Frenchman head over to Stamford Bridge. They will put up a fight.

Signed for just £18 million in what looks like a brilliant deal, his club will try to make Chelsea pay through their nose.

According to the report, he is not the only name on Chelsea’s shortlist, with Brighton & Hove Albion’s Jan Paul Van Hecke also on their radar.

The Dutchman is another Premier League-proven defender that can help shore up Chelsea’s leaky rearguard.

Van Hecke has also impressed in the English top flight, winning 56 percent of his aerial and 66% of his ground duels this term, and helping to keep seven clean sheets.

The Blues need two defenders this summer and will likely move on at least three permanently, while loans could be on the cards for Josh Acheampong and Sarr.

Liverpool prepare for historic Merseyside Derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium

Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Everton carries added significance, with the Anfield Index Media Matters podcast highlighting both the challenge and the occasion.

Speaking on the show, Dave Davis and David Lynch reflected on what will be the first Merseyside Derby at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, adding another layer of intrigue to an already intense fixture.

Tough test expected for Liverpool

Lynch made it clear that this will be far from a routine match. “We know how tough that game is,” he said, acknowledging the unique demands of a derby environment.

The challenge is heightened by Liverpool’s inconsistent away form, which has raised doubts about their ability to control games on the road. Lynch pointed out that trips like this have been problematic, referencing how Liverpool have struggled in similar fixtures this season.

Despite Liverpool’s superior league position, form and context suggest a far more balanced contest.

Everton approach could cause problems

A key factor in the analysis was how Everton are likely to approach the game. Lynch highlighted the tactical difficulty Liverpool may face, stating that David Moyes “knows how to set up against Liverpool”.

He added that Everton “will do a lot of things Liverpool won’t like”, underlining the physical and disruptive nature often associated with derby matches.

That combination of tactical discipline and intensity could make it difficult for Liverpool to impose their preferred style.

Photo: IMAGO

Point seen as acceptable result

Interestingly, Lynch suggested that even a draw could be considered a positive outcome. “I think I probably would shake hands on a draw right now,” he admitted.

That view reflects both respect for the opponent and awareness of Liverpool’s current form. In a tightly contested race, avoiding defeat in a hostile environment may hold significant value.

He also noted that a point would help “keep Chelsea at arm’s length” while maintaining Liverpool’s position in the table.

Historic setting adds extra pressure

The occasion itself adds further weight to the fixture. As the first derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the atmosphere is expected to be intense, with Everton supporters eager to mark the moment.

For Liverpool, adapting quickly to that environment will be crucial. Early control of the game, or even an early goal, could play a significant role in shaping the outcome.

Arsenal secured a 0-0 draw with Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium to earn a 1-0 win over the Portuguese side on aggregate.

The Gunners are into the semi-final of the UEFA Champions League, looking to clear this hurdle after decades of trying to bring home the gold.

Arsenal needed to hold on and secure the win. They did so firmly, thanks to some impressive performances across the board.

One of the players who rose to the occasion in North London was midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

After some catastrophic performances in recent games that raised eyebrows, he finally delivered a noteworthy display in the engine room.

Zubimendi played a key role in the centre of the park, dictating the play and screening danger. The Spaniard won 1/1 of his aerial and 5/5 of his ground duels on the night.

The 27-year-old played two key passes and completed 48/54 passes (89% accuracy). He made three progressive carries, one interception, and two clearances.

Zubimendi’s loss of form in recent games has coincided with a downturn in Arsenal’s performances.

If he can keep up displays like this, Arsenal have a chance of staving off Manchester City’s challenge to clinch their first Premier League title in 22 years come May.

They should also be able to go one step further than last season in the Champions League by reaching the final.

Zubimendi has enjoyed a mixed debut season in England. Some fine goals and important displays have been punctuated by poor showings that cost the club games.

Expect consistency from the former Real Sociedad man next season after he has fully acclimated himself to his new environment.

When he does, performances like yesterday’s will be the standard for him. He can go on to establish himself as one of the best in his position.

Liverpool Move Ahead in Marcos Senesi Pursuit Amid Defensive Concerns

Liverpool are currently leading the race to sign Marcos Senesi on a free transfer this summer, with the Bournemouth centre-back expected to leave at the end of his contract. Reporting from iPaper indicates the Merseyside club are best placed to secure his signature, with rival interest cooling.

Contract Decision Drives Exit

“Another certain Bournemouth exit this summer is that of Marcos Senesi, with suitors being lined up to capture the cultured defender on a free transfer.”

Senesi has formally indicated he will not extend his stay on the south coast, prompting his representatives to explore options across the Premier League and Europe. The timing aligns with broader changes at the club, following Andoni Iraola confirming he will depart at the end of the season.

“Senesi’s representatives have been busy trying to secure the 28-year-old his next move, after notifying Bournemouth he will not be signing a new deal on the South Coast.”

Liverpool Prioritise Defensive Reinforcement

“The i Paper understands Liverpool are the most likely destination, as they look to add some much-needed fresh faces to their central defensive arsenal.”

Liverpool’s interest reflects a clear requirement for depth and succession planning. Virgil van Dijk has featured heavily this season, underlining a lack of reliable alternatives.

“Skipper Virgil van Dijk, who turns 35 in July, has had to play 49 times already this campaign, due to lack of alternatives, while Ibrahima Konate continues to struggle for form and last summer’s signing Giovanni Leoni remains on the treatment table.”

Photo IMAGO

The profile Senesi offers, left sided, composed in possession, and experienced in the Premier League, aligns with Liverpool’s current requirements.

Rivals Shift Focus Elsewhere

“Chelsea and Manchester United had been keeping tabs on Senesi, but The i Paper has been told neither are currently planning to make a move.”

Manchester United are understood to be targeting alternative defensive options, including Nottingham Forest’s Murillo, while Chelsea FC are prioritising more physically dominant profiles as part of their squad restructuring.

Italian interest has also diminished.

“Juventus had carried out extensive checks but informed his agent recently that they did not believe he would be a guaranteed starter.”

Roma have similarly withdrawn after initial due diligence, leaving English clubs as the primary contenders.

Premier League Competition Remains

“It is understood that Senesi has been offered to most of the clubs in contention to play in Europe but is yet to make a decision on where he goes next.”

Aston Villa, Everton, and Tottenham are among those monitoring the situation, though Liverpool’s current position appears strongest. Financial terms, particularly wage demands, could still influence the outcome, with a decision expected before the season concludes.

From Liverpool’s perspective, the opportunity to secure an experienced defender without a transfer fee represents a calculated and potentially low risk addition during a period of transition.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool standpoint, this situation reflects a club addressing a clear structural issue rather than chasing headline signings. Senesi may not arrive with the profile of a marquee addition, but his attributes align with what the squad currently lacks.

There is a reliance on Virgil van Dijk that cannot continue indefinitely. His minutes this season highlight a broader problem around depth and availability. Konate’s inconsistency and ongoing fitness concerns elsewhere in the defensive unit only reinforce that point.

Senesi brings experience, balance, and familiarity with the league. For a side that often dominates possession but has struggled with defensive stability in key moments, his composure could offer value.

A supporter might question whether this represents sufficient ambition, especially given Liverpool’s recent trajectory. That concern is valid. However, squad building often requires incremental improvements as much as transformative ones.

If this deal forms part of a wider defensive refresh, it looks sensible. If viewed in isolation, it risks feeling underwhelming.

Ultimately, this appears to be a pragmatic move, one that suggests Liverpool are attempting to stabilise before they evolve further.

Liverpool are leading the race to sign Bournemouth centre-half Marcos Senesi, according to The I Paper.

The Reds are in the market for a defender and have turned to the Argentine, whom sporting director Richard Hughes knows from his time with the Cherries.

Liverpool could use a new centre-back with Virgil Van Dijk entering the twilight of his career.

The Merseyside club needs a back-up who can take the reins for the Dutchman. Enter the ‘very valuable’ Senesi.

While the 28-year-old is not the physical specimen that Van Dijk is, he is an exquisite passer of the ball and can help unlock teams even from the back.

Senesi has won 48 percent of his aerial and 57% of his ground duels in 31 Premier League appearances this season.

He has helped his side keep eight clean sheets while creating six big chances so far, earmarking himself as one of the best ball-playing defenders around.

Senesi is poised to become a free agent this summer, allowing Liverpool to pounce and snap him up.

But they won’t get a free run at him with several other clubs, local and international, queuing up for his signature.

He is one of the hottest properties on the transfer market this summer.

Yet for all his pedigree and comfort in possession, there is a lingering doubt over whether Senesi truly fits the profile of a Van Dijk successor.

Liverpool’s defensive structure has long been built on dominance in the air, in duels, and in recovery situations, areas where Senesi’s numbers are, at best, modest.

Replacing Van Dijk is not simply about progression from the back, but about authority without the ball.

Senesi offers composure, but not necessarily control. For a team with title ambitions, that distinction could prove decisive if Liverpool choose to make their move.

Newcastle United continue to track the progress of Werder Bremen defender Karim Coulibaly, according to Bild.

The Magpies have been eyeing the highly-rated young centre-half and can swoop for him this summer.

The Newcastle transfer target has caught the eye with his performances for the struggling German side.

Despite being only 18, he has established himself as a key player for Werder, playing a crucial role in their bid to avoid relegation.

Coulibaly has won 47 percent of his aerial and 51% of his ground duels in 23 Bundesliga appearances this season, helping to keep three clean sheets.

While Newcastle have an established defensive pairing in Sven Botman and Malick Thiaw, they have to start planning for the future.

Dan Burn and Fabian Schar are getting up there in age, and Newcastle need a young successor who can take the reins from the two veterans.

Newcastle have been snapping up young talents from across the globe, recently completing a deal for Ecuadorian talent Johan Martinez from Independiente del Valle.

Coulibaly might be up next. According to Florian Plettenberg, he will cost around €50 million, but Newcastle are not alone in the race for his signature.

Chelsea have also been tracking the left-footed German defender, providing competition for the Geordies.

If Bremen’s relegation situation softens their stance and the fee drops, Coulibaly begins to look like a gamble worth taking.

His reading of danger already stands out for a player of his age, stepping in to intercept passes and throwing himself into blocks with impressive timing.

There is rawness in his aerial numbers, but that feels coachable under Eddie Howe, who has a track record of refining defenders into more dominant, complete profiles.

What Coulibaly does possess is harder to teach. His recovery speed is outstanding, allowing him to defend large spaces and cover for teammates. He has a high ceiling.

With the right guidance, those physical and technical traits can be moulded into something far more reliable.

For a club thinking long-term, Coulibaly has the tools to grow into a very good centre-back.

If Newcastle can secure him at a reasonable price, it is a risk that could pay off handsomely.

Larne manager Gary Haveron said his side have to prepare to face a "a big, strong and physical" Glentoran during Friday's potential title-decider at the Oval (19:45 BST, live on BBC iPlayer).

Victory over the Glens will secure Larne's third Premiership title in four years after triumphs in 2023 and 2024.

However, a Glentoran win would take the title race to the final game of the season.

"We are excited and it is a really hard place to go, probably one of the hardest places in the league this year," Haveron told BBC Sport NI.

"They are a big, strong and physical team and they are experienced now. We know how difficult it will be, but we have shown that we can handle the pressure of playing at the Oval (Larne won 4-1 there in January).

"It will be a big crowd. We need to be at our best and be prepared for the challenge.

The Inver Reds sit three points clear at the top of the Premiership, but Glentoran are unbeaten in their past nine league games.

The sides are also level on goal difference after Glentoran - who last won the title in 2009 - closed the gap with a 5-0 thrashing of Dungannon Swifts.

"It is a huge game, it was always going to be huge game regardless of what happened on Saturday. It was always going to be a massive task," he continued.

"We will recover, it has been a tough few weeks. There was a lot of football played and a lot of running in the legs on a big, big pitch at Windsor."

HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL, SOFTBALL SCORES 

Wednesday’s Results 

BASEBALL 

CITY SECTION
Crenshaw 16, Dymally 5
Diego Rivera 25, Manual Arts 2
East Valley 13, Panorama 2
El Camino Real 7, Taft 3
Fulton 18, Canoga Park 6
Garfield 6, Alhambra 5
LA University 11, Westchester 0
North Hollywood 4, Sun Valley Poly 2
Roybal 16, Hollywood 6
San Pedro 10, Rancho Dominguez 0
SOCES 14, Northridge Academy 2
South East 12, Huntington Park 1
South Gate 3, Legacy 1
Stella 17, Animo Venice 0
Sun Valley Magnet 15, Bert Corona 2
Vaughn 11, Arleta 0
Wilson 4, Eagle Rock 1

SOUTHERN SECTION
Aliso Niguel 4, Capistrano Valley 3
Anaheim 8, Godinez 0
Arlington 1, Paloma Valley 0
Arroyo 11, Rosemead 1
Ayala 3, Walnut 1
Big Bear 23, Hesperia Christian 12
Bishop Amat 13, Gardena Serra 0
Bonita 10, Claremont 3
California 9, La Serna 3
Canyon Springs 10, Vista del Lago 1
Charter Oak 4, Northview 3
Chino Hills 5, Los Osos 2
Corona 16, Corona Centennial 2
Corona Santiago 17, Riverside King 1
Covina 11, West Covina 4
Crossroads 7, Windward 6
Cypress 4, El Dorado 1
Dana Hills 7, Trabuco Hills 1
Desert Christian 20, Valley Torah 5
Downey 6, Bellflower 5
Duarte 11, Azusa 10
Edgewood 11, Pomona 0
El Rancho 10, Whittier 4
El Segundo 7, North Torrance 6
Esperanza 15, Bosco Tech 11
Etiwanda 5, Damien 3
Flintridge Prep 12, Shalhevet 2
Ganesha 15, Bassett 0
Garden Grove Pacifica 3, Anaheim Canyon 2
Golden Valley 10, Canyon Country Canyon 1
Glendora 5, Diamond Bar 1
Hesperia 4, Sultana 1
Highland 13, Eastside 1
Hillcrest 9, Citrus Hill 3
Huntington Beach 3, Fountain Valley 1
Indian Springs 10, Pacific 6
Laguna Beach 6, Portola 0
La Mirada 1, Warren 0
Lancaster 14, Littlerock 4
La Sierra 9, Patriot 0
Liberty 4, Moreno Valley 3
Loma Linda Academy 23, Desert Chapel 7
Long Beach Wilson 3, Long Beach Cabrillo 0
Malibu 8, Channel Islands 7
Marina 2, Edison 0
Miller 12, San Bernardino 2
Millikan 22, Compton 3
Mission Viejo 3, Beckman 2
New Roads 15, Lennox Academy 1
Nordhoff 16, Fillmore 0
Northwood 10, Irvine University 9
Oak Hills 21, Serrano 10
Ojai Valley 20, Hillcrest Christian 2
Orange 3, Westminster La Quinta 0
Palmdale 10, Antelope Valley 7
Pasadena Marshall 4, Gabrielino 3
Ramona 8, Jurupa Valley 1
Rancho Christian 10, Orange Vista 0
Rancho Cucamonga 3, Upland 2
Rancho Verde 16, Perris 4
Ridgecrest Burroughs 9, Apple Valley 4
Riverside Poly 11, Heritage 3
Royal 7, Camarillo 6
Rowland 3, Hacienda Heights Wilson 0
Rubidoux 4, Norte Vista 2
Sage Hill 1, Irvine 0
San Juan Hills 4, El Toro 3
Santa Rosa Academy 9, Temecula Prep 2
Saugus 9, Hart 1
Servite 9, Mater Dei 6
Simi Valley 10, Moorpark 0
St. Anthony 6, Cathedral 2
St. Francis 3, Sierra Canyon 2
St. John Bosco 8, Santa Margarita 1
Sunny Hills 3, Sonora 2
University Prep 14, Excelsior Charter 7
West Ranch 4, Valencia 2
Wiseburn-Da Vinci 5, Peninsula 2
Woodbridge 10, St. Margaret’s 1
Yorba Linda 18, Troy 2

INTERSECTIONAL 
Brentwood 4, Palisades 3
Redlands Adventist Academy 9, Public Safety 1

SOFTBALL 

CITY SECTION 
Angelou 8, Jefferson 6
Animo Venice 20, Animo Robinson 0
Birmingham 16, Chatsworth 1
Bravo 12, LA Wilson 2
Central City Value 17, Annenberg 4
Dymally 29, Crenshaw 6
Eagle Rock 16, Franklin 0
El Camino Real 20, Cleveland 1
Granada Hills 14, Taft 1
Granada Hills Kennedy 7, Arleta 2
LA Hamilton 15, LACES 4
LA University 20, Westchester 4
Lincoln 7, LA Marshall 6
Marquez d. Elizabeth, forfeit
Maywood Academy 27, Sotomayor 7
Maywood CES 14, Torres 8
North Hollywood 29, Monroe 4
Reseda 28, Fulton 8
Santee 26, Los Angeles 0
Stella 24, Animo Watts 14
Van Nuys 13, Canoga Park 1
Venice 28, Fairfax 1
Verdugo Hills 14, Sun Valley Poly 4
Washington Prep 19, Hawkins 7

SOUTHERN SECTION
Anaheim 15, Santa Ana Valley 0
Apple Valley 16, Oak Hills 13
Arrowhead Christian 15, Savanna 0
Arroyo 17, Rosemead 2
Ayala 15, Claremont 6
Azusa 9, Baldwin Park 3
Bolsa Grande 10, Westminster La Quinta 0
Bonita 12, Glendora 3
Burbank Providence 12, Mountain View 2
Burroughs Burbank 11, Burbank 1
Chadwick 10, Mayfield 1
Charter Oak, 5, Northview 2
Citrus Hill 11, Perris 1
Corona 14, Eastvale Roosevelt 6
Crean Lutheran 10, Corona del Mar 0
Diamond Bar 2, Walnut 0
Dos Pueblos 7, Saugus 2
Edgewood 18, Pomona 6
Fullerton 21, Placentia Valencia 0
Gabrielino 11, Pasadena Marshall 1
Ganesha 19, Bassett 0
Garden Grove Santiago 6, Los Amigos 3
Hemet 16, Moreno Valley 1
Hesperia Christian 7, AAE 6
Hillcrest 12, Rancho Verde 2
Lakeside 9, Heritage 4
Miller 8, San Bernardino 3
Oak Park 13, West Ranch 1
Paloma Valley 5, Canyon Springs 1
Pasadena Poly 15, Ramona Convent 9
Patriot 1, La Sierra 0
Pomona Catholic 15, St, Bernard 1
Ramona 6, Jurupa Valley 3
Rancho Alamitos 7, Orange 6
Rancho Christian 21, Vista del Lago 7
Redondo Union 24, Peninsula 0
Riverside Poly 15, Arlington 4
Riverside Prep 6, Downey 4
Rubidoux 12, Norte Vista 3
Samueli Academy 18, Webb 8
Santa Ana 11, Costa Mesa 10
Segerstrom 16, Garden Grove 6
Serrano 8, Hesperia 7
Sierra Vista 12, Nogales 1
South Torrance 10, El Segundo 0
Sultana 10, Ridgerest Burroughs 6
Tustin 16, Godinez 0
University Prep 18, Excelsior Charter 1
Valley View 15, Orange Vista 12
Ventura 11, Viewpoint 1
West Covina 11, Covina 6
Western Christian 20, Capistrano Valley Christian 1
Windward 17, Oakwood 1

INTERSECTIONAL 
Paramount 11, South Gate 1

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

LOS ANGELES — The symbolism didn’t need to be forced Wednesday night. It was already stitched into every jersey, every base, every number 42 scattered across Major League Baseball.

On the 79th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier on April 15, 1947. Shohei Ohtani’s right arm and the left-handed thunder of a rookie who is quickly making himself impossible to ignore.

Ohtani sets the tone — and the standard

There was no Ohtani in the lineup. No DH. No bat to extend that 48-game on-base streak.

It didn't matter.

“I was a little surprised at first,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton about being used strictly as a pitcher. “But I understood it and just locked in.”

Locked in looked like 98 mph to open the game, blowing a fastball past Francisco Lindor to set the tone.

Ohtani leaned heavily on his four-seam fastball, more than in his first two starts, and carved through the Mets for much of the night. Through three innings, he allowed just one baserunner while piling up five strikeouts. Efficient. Overpowering. Familiar.

Even when things wobbled in the fifth, a pair of walks, an RBI double from MJ Melendez snapping his 33-inning scoreless streak, Ohtani didn’t unravel.

He recalibrated.

Strikeout of Tommy Pham. Flyout from Lindor. Damage contained.

By the time Ohtani walked off after the sixth, he had delivered his most complete outing of the season:

• 6 IP

• 1 ER

• 2 H

• 2 BB

• 10 K

• 22 whiffs

A 0.50 ERA now sits next to his name. Early, yes. But not insignificant.

If this is what a “pitching-only” version of Ohtani looks like, the rest of the league has a problem.

The understudy steals the scene

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Dalton Rushing hits a grand slam home run in the eighth inning against the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium.

For six innings, the Dodgers led quietly. A two-run shot from Hyeseong Kim in the second inning. A solo homer by Teoscar Hernández in the sixth inning. Clean, controlled baseball.

Then the eighth inning happened. Single. Walk. Single. Bases loaded. No outs.

And stepping in, the man filling Ohtani’s usual role, Dalton Rushing.

First pitch. Gone.

A grand slam off Devin Williams that turned a comfortable lead into a rout and introduced Rushing to a larger audience in one swing.

“Twenty minutes before first pitch he told me, ‘Hey, go hit a home run today,’” Rushing said. “I said, ‘Alright, Sho. I got you.’ … Sure enough, it happened.”

Ohtani’s review?

“We had a really good DH today.”

That might qualify as an understatement of the night.

Rushing is now hitting .529 with four home runs and an OPS north of 1.900. His last three games read like a video game line: 7-for-12, three homers, six RBIs.

Asked about borrowing Ohtani’s spot in the order, Rushing didn’t overplay it.

“I’m not getting used to it, I’ll tell you that,” he said. “But he told me to hit a homer for him, and I guess it worked out.”

Roberts, when asked if Rushing had earned more DH time, laughed.

“Yeah… Shohei will be back Friday.”

A staff in sync, a team rolling

Lost in the offensive burst and Ohtani’s brilliance is what this rotation just did to the Mets over three games:

21.2 innings.2 earned runs.29 strikeouts.

From Justin Wrobleski to Yoshinobu Yamamoto to Ohtani, it was a statement series for a staff that’s starting to look relentless.

Add in late insurance from Kyle Tucker — his first home run at Dodger Stadium in blue — and the Dodgers turned the final game into an 8-2 finish that felt inevitable long before the last out.

Echoes of history, hints of October

The Dodgers are 14-4. The last times they started this well in Los Angeles?1977. 1981. 2021.

Two pennants. One championship. One deep October run.

It’s April, and none of that guarantees anything. But on a night that honored Robinson’s legacy, resilience, excellence, breaking expectations, this team looked like it’s chasing something more than just another good start.

Ohtani is building a Cy Young case on the mound. Rushing is forcing his way into the conversation. The lineup doesn’t seem to have holes. The rotation is dealing.

An off day on Thursday for the Dodgers as they are set to begin a four-game series on Friday in Colorado.

Real Madrid’s Champions League exit against Bayern Munich will be remembered not just for the scoreline, but for a decisive moment that revealed cracks under pressure. 

In a tie full of goals and momentum swings, Los Blancos ultimately fell short, losing 4-3 on the night and 6-4 on aggregate, but the final stages told a far more troubling story.

With just minutes left and the tie delicately poised, Real Madrid were still within touching distance of forcing extra time. 

At 2-3, one moment of quality could have flipped everything. Instead, it turned into a moment of frustration that summed up their night.

What’s the story?

A defensive lapse from Dayot Upamecano handed Vinicius Jr. a golden opportunity to drive at goal. 

The Brazilian surged forward into open space, with Jude Bellingham making a perfectly timed central run into the box. 

However, Vinicius carried the ball wide, delaying the pass and ultimately missing the moment entirely. 

Bellingham’s frustration was immediate, with his body language making it clear he expected a pass from the Brazilian.

In the heat of the moment, Vinicius turned back and snapped at his teammate, saying, 

“What do you want, what do you want? Shut your mouth for God’s sake.”

Rather than using the moment as fuel, Real Madrid eventually lost control. 

Within minutes, the situation worsened dramatically, as Eduardo Camavinga bizarrely received a second yellow card after attempting to delay a restart, leaving his side with ten men at the worst possible time.

That decision effectively killed any remaining hope. Bayern ultimately seized control, and Madrid’s resistance faded as the match slipped away.

The football world wakes up with a European hangover after a night of maximum tension in Munich.

Real Madrid’s elimination has shaken the club to its core, leaving behind a trail of refereeing controversy and deep uncertainty over the future of its bench.

As Madrid absorbs the blow, the focus now shifts to the Europa League and the Conference League.

Tonight, Spanish football seeks redemption with Celta de Vigo and Real Betis fighting for a place in the semifinals, as well as a Rayo Vallecano side defending a 3-0 lead in Athens. 

Farewell to the dream of La Decimosexta

Real Madrid were knocked out of the Champions League after losing 4-3 to Bayern Munich in a frantic match (6-4 on aggregate). Despite goals from Arda Güler and Mbappé, the Bavarian side made their firepower count at the Allianz Arena. Los Blancos bid farewell to their favorite competition in one of the most thrilling knockout ties seen in recent years.

Controversy over Camavinga’s red card

The incident that shaped the course of the match was the sending-off of Eduardo Camavinga for a second yellow card. The second booking, shown after he picked up the ball with his hands during a stoppage in play, has been described as “harsh” and “incomprehensible” by those around Madrid. The decision left Madrid down to ten men in the decisive stretch, frustrating any attempt at a heroic comeback.

Arbeloa in the eye of the storm

The elimination has fueled rumors about whether Álvaro Arbeloa will remain in charge of the first team. The coach, who took over in January, looked visibly affected and was critical of the refereeing in the post-match press conference. The board now faces the difficult decision of backing his project or seeking a new direction after a European failure that hurts especially deeply at Chamartín.

An almost impossible mission at Balaídos

Celta de Vigo face the biggest challenge of their Europa League campaign tonight (18:45) . After the painful 3-0 defeat in the first leg against Freiburg, Claudio Giráldez’s side need a magical night at Balaídos. Overturning a three-goal deficit against such a well-organized German team will require perfect finishing and a deafening atmosphere in the stands.

The Benito Villamarín delivers its verdict

Meanwhile, Real Betis host Sporting de Braga with everything still to play for after the 1-1 draw in the first leg. Manuel Pellegrini’s side are counting on home advantage to book their place in the Europa League semifinals. A goalless draw would not be enough (since away goals no longer count double), so Betis will go for the win from the very first minute in a historic occasion.

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

The Vegas Golden Knights are the champions of what might be the most anticlimactic race of all time. With a 4-1 victory over the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday, they clinched their fifth Pacific Division title in franchise history.

Connor McDavid’s words were truth disguised as jest– this year, teams in the Pacific Division have done nothing but squander opportunities to pull ahead in the race to claim the division title. It took until day 190 of the NHL season for a team to pull ahead and stake its claim on the Pillow Fight Division title.

“We were on top there for a while, for a lot of the season,” said Golden Knights defenseman Brayden McNabb. “Then we’re in third, flirting with a wildcard. We found our game at the right time and won the division. That’s what we wanted to do, and we did it.”

For the first 30 minutes of play, it didn’t look like the Golden Knights were particularly interested in winning said division. It took them nearly nine minutes to record their first shot on goal; the Kraken recorded nine shots before Vegas managed two. But after an encouraging power play opportunity, Seattle only outshot the Golden Knights 11-6 at the end of the first period.

But despite being thoroughly outshot– and arguably outplayed– the Golden Knights entered the second period with a clean slate and a 0-0 tie.

Both teams recorded nine shots on goal in the second period, and the Golden Knights generated three high-danger scoring chances against Seattle’s two.

The Kraken broke the ice 2:24 into the second period. Carter Hart kicked out Jamie Oleksiak’s blast from the point, and Jani Nyman beat Jeremy Lauzon to the puck. Nyman found Shane Wright all alone in front of the net, and Wright fired it home.

Jani Nyman beats Lauzon to the puck and finds Shane Wright alllllll alone in front of the net.

1-0, Kraken

pic.twitter.com/5uD4SP862n

— Hannah Kirkell (@h_kirk6) April 16, 2026

The Golden Knights netted the equalizer at 17:35 in the second. Nic Dowd won the offensive zone draw, and Shea Theodore beat Nikke Kokko with a shot through Reilly Smith’s screen.

Nic Dowd with the face off win, Reilly Smith with the screen, Theodore with the snipe.

1-1

pic.twitter.com/lUQRDMFZCy

— Hannah Kirkell (@h_kirk6) April 16, 2026

Finally, the ice opened up in the third period. The Golden Knights outshot the Kraken 12-4 and controlled 91.39% of the expected goal share. They also generated nine high-danger scoring chances while not allowing Seattle to manage a single one.

The Golden Knights took their first lead of the night just 1:23 into the third period off another face-off play. Jack Eichel won the offensive zone draw back to Brayden McNabb, who walked the line and fired a shot on goal. As McNabb’s shot came through, Mitch Marner redirected it home from the slot.

Brayden McNabb with the shot, Mitch Marner with the surgical redirection!

2-1, Golden Knights

pic.twitter.com/y460WS9fm3

— Hannah Kirkell (@h_kirk6) April 16, 2026

The Golden Knights extended their lead at 12:01 in the third. Jack Eichel capitalized on a blown coverage in the offensive zone and set up a two-on-one. Rasmus Anderson got the pass across for Reilly Smith, who slammed a fluttering puck into the empty net.

Reilly Smith scores on a two-on-one and Lane Lambert looks like he is NOT having a good time tonight.#SeaKrakenpic.twitter.com/AFrjfNNcN7

— 𝘿𝙖𝙫𝙮 𝙅𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨' 𝙇𝙤𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙧 𝙍𝙤𝙤𝙢 (@DavyJonesLR) April 16, 2026

The Golden Knights added another on a delayed penalty at 16:36. Tomáš Hertl fired a shot on goal; Kaedan Korczak, who was parked atop the crease, whacked at the rebound. The puck came loose, and Reilly Smith banged in his second of the night from the goal line.

Kaedan Korczak is in front of the net whacking at Tomáš Hertl’s rebound, and Reilly Smith scores his second of the night on the delayed penalty.

4-1, Golden Knights

pic.twitter.com/lpzm5Z6wLP

— Hannah Kirkell (@h_kirk6) April 16, 2026

Nothing this year has been easy for the Golden Knights, and this game was no different.

“We just slowly went about our business and finally found our game,” said head coach John Tortorella following the 4-1 win. “You’d almost want to play one of those before the playoffs, if you knew the result was going to be a win– they don’t like being in it when it’s going on. But give our guys a lot of credit, they stayed with it and just kept on playing. They’ve grabbed hold of it. We have found some consistency, and they feel more and more comfortable with it.”

Three Takeaways of the Knight

1. Despite playing without much intensity in the first period, the Golden Knights entered the first intermission tied at zero. Despite having nothing to play for, the Kraken took advantage of Vegas’ uninspired play and shelled Carter Hart in the first period. Shea Theodore raved about his goaltender postgame:

“He’s been great,” Theodore said following the 4-1 win. “He’s been so solid. I think we’ve given up too many chances, but he’s been big back there. He’s been a backbone ever since he came back.”

2. The team is fully bought in right now, and no one embodies that more than Reilly Smith. He’s been in and out of the lineup for a chunk of the season, but he’s never let that affect his work ethic or attitude around the locker room.

“We have high expectations, and we try to live that every day,” said Smith after his two-goal performance. “Through the organization, the players, everyone, tries to live up to that level. Every day we’re at the rink, we don’t accept losing, and I think the last couple of weeks are a good testament to that.”

3. And with that, the 2026 regular season comes to a close for the Vegas Golden Knights. They’ll kick off the postseason this weekend at home against the Utah Mammoth.

When asked if he had any early thoughts about their playoff opponent, John Tortorella simply replied:

“Nope.”

That’s all, folks! 

Barcelona’s Champions League dream may have come to a painful end at the Metropolitano, but the reaction from Pedri perfectly captured the mentality now driving the squad forward. 

After the final whistle against Atletico Madrid, the midfielder took a moment to acknowledge the travelling supporters, applauding the more than 3,000 fans who backed the team until the very end.

Despite the disappointment, Pedri showed maturity beyond his years, sharing the attitude seen across the dressing room, particularly from young stars like Lamine Yamal. 

There was no hiding from the pain of elimination, but there was also a clear sense that this setback would fuel Barcelona’s next push in Europe.

A strong message from Pedri

Speaking after the match, Pedri delivered a heartfelt reflection on the night, making it clear that the defeat must serve as a turning point for the squad. 

He said, “No matter how hard you try and how much you want it, things don’t always go your way. 

Pedri pushed himself to limit. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We must learn from the defeat, understand what we have and what we can improve. 

“That has to be the driving force for the future, to win the Champions League in the coming years. We’re not content with what we’ve achieved.

“This sadness has to be transformed into joy in the future,” he said, according to Mundo Deportivo.

It must be noted that Pedri has been managing fitness concerns in the latter part of the campaign, but he still pushed himself physically in a high-intensity clash as Barcelona attempted to overturn the 0-2 deficit from the first leg. 

Despite the exit, though, the season is far from over for Barcelona, as the team now shifts its entire focus to La Liga, where they holds a commanding advantage. 

With just seven matches remaining, the Catalan side are sitting nine points clear of Real Madrid, putting them strongly on track to secure another league title.

Real Madrid’s season ended abruptly with a 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich in the return leg of the Champions League Quarterfinals and Movistar’s cameras caught a moment of tension between attackers Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham late in the game. Bellingham complained after not receiving a pass from Vinicius and the latter then said “What do you want? What do you want? Shut your mouth!”.

While this situation could happen to any team in such a tough atmosphere and situation, it’s also clear that Vinicius’ body language could’ve been better there.

Real Madrid will have a long off-season ahead, and getting the team chemistry and every player on the same page right after going trophy-less for a second straight year should be one of the top priorities for the coaching staff and the board.

Golden State star Stephen Curry scored the go-ahead three-pointer with 50 seconds left as the Warriors rallied to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 126-121 and stay alive in the NBA play-in on Wednesday.

Curry, a four-time NBA champion who missed 27 games from February to early April with a nagging knee injury, shook off a slow first half to finish with 35 points.

He connected on seven of 12 three-point attempts to help the Warriors, who trailed most of the way, battle back from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit.

His last three-pointer put the Warriors up 120-117, and they held on to knock Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers out of the post-season.

The Warriors, who finished the regular season 10th in the Western Conference, will have to win one more game to reach the playoffs proper when they face the Phoenix Suns on Friday.

The winner of that game will secure the Western Conference eighth seed and a first-round series against the top-seeded reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

Curry said the key in Phoenix will once again be "resiliency."

"These win or go home scenarios, we think we know the team but you've got to be able to withstand the runs and stay in it emotionally.

"It was back and forth the whole game, and then we got over the hump the last three minutes."

Gui Santos and Kristaps Porzingis scored 20 points apiece for the Warriors and Al Horford made four three-pointers in the fourth quarter.

Bennedict Mathurin scored 23 points to lead the Clippers. Leonard and Darius Garland scored 21 points each, but Leonard was held to just two points in the final period.

- Sixers reach playoffs -

The Philadelphia 76ers, fueled by 31 points from Tyrese Maxey, held off the Orlando Magic 109-97 to punch their playoff ticket, booking a first-round meeting with the Boston Celtics.

Maxey scored 31 points and five Philadelphia players scored in double figures as the Sixers overcame the absence of star big man Joel Embiid -- who made a surprise appearance watching from the bench as he recovers from an appendectomy.

"Man, we played hard as hell," Maxey said. "Everybody who stepped on the floor contributed tonight.

"I'm just so happy because, like, a lot of these guys ain't been to the playoffs before. I told them at the beginning of the year, I don't care what it takes, we're going to the playoffs."

Rookie VJ Edgecombe added 19 points and 11 rebounds and Andre Drummond came off the bench to score 14 points with 10 rebounds, three steals and three blocked shots.

The 76ers' play-in victory secured the seventh seed in the Eastern Conference and a first-round series against the second-seeded Celtics starting on Sunday.

The Magic, led by 34 points from Desmond Bane, will have a last chance to grab the East eighth seed on Friday when they host the Charlotte Hornets, who knocked out the Miami Heat in a 127-126 overtime thriller on Tuesday.

The reward for the winner of Friday's game will be a first-round series against East top seeds Detroit.

Philadelphia led most of the night, but in a tight, sometimes contentious battle the Magic cut an 11-point deficit midway through the third quarter to one early in the fourth.

Orlando trailed by just four with four minutes remaining, but the Sixers pulled away with a late spurt capped by Drummond's three-pointer with 41 seconds left.

bb/tc

The match-winner was wearing Newcastle United's iconic number nine shirt as he took the acclaim of the crowd at full-time.

But Yoane Wissa was not being serenaded at Selhurst Park.

It was Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who swapped shirts with his former Chateauroux team-mate after scoring a dramatic late double in a 2-1 win.

This was a tale of two contrasting cameos from the bench last weekend.

Whereas Mateta changed the game when he entered the fray, Wissa did not even touch the ball after being thrown on following his friend's second goal deep into stoppage time.

Fellow summer arrival Nick Woltemade only had slightly longer to make an impact when handed a rare outing up front in the 84th minute.

Although Wissa and Woltemade cost a combined £124m last summer, head coach Eddie Howe made it clear he did not pick the team "based on transfer fees" but as a result of what he saw in training.

Howe's words were a little revealing as he explained why goalscorer William Osula was given a surprise start.

"He's got the physical attributes, the determination to do really well," he said. "He's improving week in, week out."

Isak departure still being felt

Osula's recall was the latest twist in Newcastle's search for a lasting solution up front - seven months after Alexander Isak's painful exit.

The club were going to struggle to find a like-for-like replacement for Isak after he pushed to join Liverpool for a British record £125m.

It was viewed as an "impossible" task internally.

But Howe sought to bring in two strikers to share the load after Callum Wilson also moved on.

There was recognition that Woltemade previously had eyes for Bayern Munich and that Newcastle had targeted other centre-forwards after failing with moves for Joao Pedro, Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko.

Yet it felt like this £69m deal happened for a reason after Woltemade scored five goals in his first six starts for Newcastle.

Woltemade still boasts one of the best shot conversion rates (23%) of those players with at least 30 efforts in the Premier League this season.

However, in the absence of injured captain Bruno Guimaraes, the technical Woltemade has curiously been used more often in the middle of the park of late.

It had been a frustration of the coaching staff that they did not have more time to bring out aspects of Woltemade's game in the final third.

They certainly will in the coming weeks as a relentless schedule eases.

But Howe's creaking system has historically relied on a rapid striker who can get in behind - and also lead the press.

As much as Woltemade has had to adapt to a new style and a more intense, physical league following his move from Stuttgart, Newcastle must play to his strengths too.

• Newcastle are 'underwhelming' but is Woltemade a problem?

Wissa's struggles and a turbulent summer

The Premier League-proven Wissa was supposed to help ease the burden, but he hardly had the ideal preparation.

The striker did not have a proper pre-season, after pushing to leave Brentford, and suffered a knee injury on international duty with DR Congo only days after joining Newcastle.

He nonetheless scored two goals in his first two starts, but has found the net only once since.

Winger Anthony Gordon was even handed an extended run through the middle ahead of Wissa before Osula got his chance.

Newcastle's recruitment record has historically been strong under Howe, but they have not seen enough of a return from a desperate £55m move.

The same can be said for an overall £100m-plus net spend last summer.

It was a turbulent period in which Newcastle missed out on a host of first-choice targets, operated without a sporting director and chief executive, and made the overwhelming majority of their signings when the season was up and running.

Howe was heavily involved in this recruitment drive, but it was rather telling that only one of Newcastle's five outfield additions - Malick Thiaw - started against Palace.

Jacob Ramsey and Anthony Elanga will be pushing for recalls for the visit of Bournemouth on Saturday, having been named on the bench alongside Woltemade and Wissa at Selhurst Park.

But Howe was not exactly proactive in turning to the quartet - even after Palace sounded a warning when Jefferson Lerma headed against the crossbar in the second half.

It was opposite number Oliver Glasner who ultimately seized the initiative with his substitutions.

'We have to work with the personnel we have'

Seeing such games out has been a recurring problem for Newcastle during a bruising campaign.

As much as Newcastle have a tendency to retreat and concede late goals, they have repeatedly failed to press home their advantage.

Only Manchester City have scored more goals in the first half than Newcastle (24) in the Premier League this season.

Yet Newcastle have thrown away more points from winning positions (25) than any other team.

No wonder Palace wing-back Tyrick Mitchell "knew we were going to get chances" as his side turned the game on its head late on.

This latest setback has seen Newcastle slip to 14th place and resulted in Howe's future coming under increased scrutiny.

"Sometimes personnel is the only thing that changes something," he said.

"But we have to work with the personnel that we have and we're very proud to do that. We've got a very good squad."

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

Sporting News Player of the Year: Victor Wembanyama has already arrived as the NBA's best player originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Derrick Rose was the youngest MVP in NBA history, winning the award in just his third season at the age of 22 years and seven months old for his hometown Chicago Bulls. Victor Wembanyama is going to break a lot of records over the course of his career, but that is one of the few that will be outside of his eight-foot reach. At 22 years and three months old, he's widely expected to finish No. 2 behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander this season in official voting.

But, that won't stop Sporting News from naming Wembanyama our youngest ever NBA Player of the Year. Gilgeous-Alexander is a worthy candidate. His Thunder team finished with the best record in the West ahead Wemby's Spurs, and he's played over 400 more minutes despite also dealing with injuries this season. But, the numbers and impact certainly do not lie: Wemby has been the best player in the league this season.

Why Victor Wembanyama is Sporting News' 2026 Player of the Year

Victor Wembanyama is already the best defender in league history

Mark Eaton holds the NBA career record with 3.50 blocks per game. Wembanyama hasn't played enough seasons yet to qualify for that leaderboard, but he is right there with 3.47. Wemby would get more of them too, but even the greatest players in the league are terrified to challenge him. 

Earlier in the season, Luka Doncic found himself underneath the basket with a chance to score. Instead, he whipped a pass behind his head to get the ball out of the paint. "If it's not Wemby, I go for the layup," he explained afterwards. 

"You literally don't even want to go to the hole when he's on the floor," LeBron James said recently on his Mind the Game podcast.

When players do sneak a layup attempt past Wembanyama, they convert those shots at one of the lowest rates in the league. The Spurs are No. 4 in the league in how few layups they allow and No. 3 in the field goal percentage that opponents shoot on those attempts.

If Wembanyama were simply a rim protector, it would be one thing. But he can guard anyone, anytime, anywhere. He covers more ground than anyone, and he has a defensive motor that rivals Steph Curry's on offense. 

Just your normal 7’5 center chasing Steph Curry around the court, switching on to Draymond, disrupting GPII at the rim, and then doing it himself on the other end

WEMBY IS SCARY pic.twitter.com/5FvDvkuJ2e

— MrBuckBuck (@MrBuckBuckNBA) November 13, 2025

Wembanyama is going to win the Defensive Player of the Year award in a landslide if he squeaks past the 65 games requirement. And this is the worst he's going to be defensively for the next decade or more.

Wemby laid out his MVP case himself by stating that defense is 50 percent of the game. While some might disagree with that statement, he is the most dominant defender that I have witnessed in over 30 years of watching the NBA. The sheer scale of his impact is a worthy cornerstone to his candidacy for our award, even if defense isn't quite as important as offense. 

MORE:Joe Mazzulla is the Sporting News NBA coach of the year

Victor Wembanyama is a better offensive player than the stats suggest

Wembanyama's 24.8 points per game are at a top 15 mark, but not near the 31.3 points or 28.0 points of his competitors Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokic. Both are better passers than him as well, although Wemby is no slouch. The same goes for shooting percentages, where Wemby is good but not elite. 

Where Wembanyama has those guys beat is with his 172 dunks, which ranks fifth in the league. Dunks certainly shouldn't be the only measure of offensive talent, but they do illustrate that Wemby's vertical threat is where he contributes the most to the Spurs' offense. He has the biggest catch radius in the league, and opponents must constantly be focused on keeping him as far away from the basket as possible.

When Wemby is within dunking range, all he has to do is point up and one of his guards is getting the Spurs an automatic two points. 

WEMBY DETONATES OVER KON pic.twitter.com/OTEyltq3FL

— WembyMuse (@Wemby_Muse) January 31, 2026

Wemby being a mere fifth on the dunkers list doesn't sound all that impressive, until you realize that he's also made 120 3's on the year and the four guys ahead of him have made a combined 87. While other guys get their dunks by being specialists, Wemby makes it impossible to guard him by also being able to score from anywhere. 

Other greats recognize how impossible of a cover this makes him. After playing the Spurs, Jokic explained to the NBA on Prime broadcast how much the Nuggets struggled to contain him.

"He's the most unique player on both sides of the floor," Jokic said. "He challenges you so many ways defensively because his ability to shoot the ball. He's one dribble at the basket dunking the ball, a lob threat."

The attention that Wembanyama receives opens up everything for the rest of the Spurs offense. They shoot better, and they take better shots. To wit, every single rotation player on the Spurs improves their effective field goal percentage when they share the court with him, per PBP stats. And as Hoops Tonight's Jason Timpf has noted, the Spurs are generating the most corner 3's in NBA history mainly because of his gravity. 

Wemby's impact shows up all over the advanced stats too. Per Cleaning the Glass, the Spurs are 15.6 points per 100 better with him on the floor, ranking in the 99th percentile of all players. 

Wemby is simply the best two-way player in the game right now, as fellow MVP candidate Jaylen Brown said on a livestream earlier this season. 

"When I say I’m the best two-way player in the league, it’s not counting Wemby. He’s not even human. I’m the best human player."

Victor Wembanyama has completely transformed the Spurs into title contenders

The Spurs mostly returned the same group of players that won 34 games last season. Newcomer backup center Luke Kornet has certainly helped in making them better, as has rookie Dylan Harper. But if you take Wembanyama off this team, they're probably winning less than half of their games.

With Wemby's improvement, they've won over 60 games this season for the first time since 2017. They finished runner-up in the NBA Cup and likely would have won had Wemby not been on a minutes restriction. They've competed with the best of the best, taking three of four from the Thunder during the regular season. 

Some people will need to see Wembanyama prove it in the playoffs before they anoint him the best player in the league. I've already seen enough. He's doing things on a nightly basis that nobody else in the league can even come close to approaching. He's already the best player in the league, and he's done more in less minutes than anyone.

Awards like this oftentimes lag a year behind. Wemby is simply too good to let that happen. He's our Player of the Year, and nobody is knocking him off his pedestal for the foreseeable future. 

MORE:Nikola Jokic, not Wemby, wins media voting for NBA's best player

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Jackson Merrill hit a walk-off, two-run double to cap San Diego's five-run ninth inning and the Padres beat the Seattle Mariners 7-6 on Wednesday night for their seventh win in a row.

The Padres won a game after entering the ninth inning trailing by four-plus runs for the first time since June 14, 2019.

Andrés Muñoz (2-2) came on to start the ninth and loaded the bases before Fernando Tatis Jr. hit a pinch-hit sacrifice fly. Luis Campusano and Ramón Laureano followed with two-out RBI singles that made it 6-5.

Jose A. Ferrer replaced Muñoz and five pitches later Merrill hit a line drive to left field that ended it.

Alek Jacob (1-0) came on to start the eighth and pitched two scoreless innings for his second career win. Starter Randy Vásquez gave up four runs and five hits in four innings. He walked four and had six strikeouts.

Xander Bogaerts hit a two-run homer in the sixth. The 33-year-old shortstop has 200 career home runs, 45 in his three-plus seasons with the Padres.

Bogaerts, Laureano, Merrill and Gavin Sheets had two hits apiece.

Luke Raley hit a two-run home run, doubled and finished with a career-high four hits for the Mariners.

Seattle starter Emerson Hancock allowed two runs and had six strikeouts in six innings.

Dominic Canzone and Brendan Donovan each drove in two runs for the Mariners.

Randy Arozarena singled and stole second base before Raley's two-run shot made it 6-0 in the fifth.

Arozarena, who also doubled, scored three times.

Before the game, Padres manager Craig Stammen said opening day starter Nick Pivetta, who was put on the 15-day IL on Tuesday, will be out maybe months.

Up next

Seattle's Luis Castillo (0-0, 6.92 ERA) takes the mound on Thursday against Walker Buehler (0-1, 4.97) to conclude a three-game set.

—

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

Liverpool recently signed up Ryan Gravenberch to a six-year contract extension.

The 23-year-old’s new deal will last until 2032 - with the Dutchman raking in around £277k per week. .

Gravenberch has been lethargic and off the pace in his No6 position - far from the standard he set during the 2024/25 Premier League season.

Arne Slot found a new gear in his compatriot but there is something crucial missing in Gravenberch’s play this term. His passing hasn’t been as sharp and teams have worked out how to nullify his impact from deep.

The temporary fix of putting Gravenberch in the “Busquets” role for Liverpool is now producing diminishing returns.

But Liverpool are going to have to extract value from Gravenberch over the coming seasons - and a switch back to his natural home at No8 could once again bring the best out of him.

We need to move Gravenberch to No8

Against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday he showed glimpses of what he could provide further forward - full of powerful running, occasional dribbles and a few shots at goal.

Placing Gravenberch closer to the goal could bring huge benefits for the Premier League champions - and an upgrade on the underperforming Alexis Mac Allister.

Doing so would require a midfielder to come in and sit deeper however.

Liverpool could sign Angelo Stiller

Liverpool don’t have an abundance of midfield talent at their disposal who can easily fill in - Wataru Endo and Curtis Jones both look set to leave the club and James McConnell lacks experience.

It’s likely that Richard Hughes will have to go into the market in order to find a solution - and an ideal candidate is now presenting itself.

According to a report in Football Insider the Stuttgart and Germany metronome Angelo Stiller will be available this summer for between £50m and £60m.

The 25-year-old had a release clause recently removed from his Stuttgart deal - meaning the Bundesliga club are preparing to cash in on their special talent.

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Stiller can play deeper and allow Gravenberch to shine

Stiller has been linked with a move to Liverpool - as well as Manchester United, Real Madrid and Inter Milan - and it’s clear that Anfield could provide an ideal platform for the left-footer’s talents.

He brings bags of on-the-ball quality as well as tenacity and discipline out of possession. Those skills are set to be in demand on Merseyside this summer as Arne Slot seeks a reset in midfield.

It would also have the twin benefit of unlocking Gravenberch and ensuring that Liverpool can get back to their best. This is a deal that the Reds cannot afford to miss.

The 2026 NFL Draft is rapidly approaching, and mock drafts are flying every day.

It's been a common sight in mock drafts to see the Washington Commanders select a defensive player with the No. 7 pick. This is certainly possible, but a recent report suggests the team could be looking to trade down or take an offensive playmaker.

To summarize, we don't know what the Commanders will do. One prospect who seems like a perfect fit on paper, though, is Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles. The 2025 season proved that the Commanders need a younger, faster linebacker than Bobby Wagner, and Styles is definitely both. As a former safety, Styles has the coverage skills and football IQ to be a leader on defense for years.

However, in draft expert Mel Kiper's latest mock, the Commanders don't have the chance to draft Styles. Instead, the rival Dallas Cowboys jump the Commanders in a trade and select Styles with the No. 6 pick. That would certainly hurt, to see your hated rival jump you and take a player of interest. It's possible, too, considering the Cowboys desperately need a linebacker.

Notably, the Cowboys own the No. 12 pick, and there's (probably) no team between No. 7 and No. 12 other than the Commanders that would take Styles. Not only would the Cowboys land one of the top overall prospects in the draft, but they'd be ensuring he doesn't end up with a division rival.

Meanwhile, Kiper has the Commanders pivoting and selecting Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate at No. 7. Tate very well could be the pick even if Styles is available, because the Commanders do need more pass-catchers. In this scenario, the front office probably wouldn't be all that disappointed.

"Paired with another Ohio State product in Terry McLaurin, Tate would bring clean route running, reliability and some big-play ability. He averaged 17.2 yards per catch last season en route to 875 yards and nine trips to the end zone," Kiper explained. "Considering the Commanders would be relying on Luke McCaffrey, Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown behind McLaurin, this makes sense."

Tate would certainly fill a need on the Commanders' roster, but it would still sting to see a player like Styles lining up for the Cowboys.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Cowboys make jump for Styles in new Kiper mock

Just over three months ago, as I watched Trinidad Chambliss do his best Nightcrawler impression in the Superdome, I unleashed a torrent of profanity that would’ve turned Andrew Dice Clay the color of a firetruck and swore to Quetzalcoatl that 2026 is the year I finally kick my college football habit. Of course, now that we’re coming up on G Day, I’m scouring every source I can find for news about spring practice. 

This weekend, we’ll get our first look at the 2026 iteration of the Georgia Bulldogs. Kirby Smart and company will likely play things pretty close to the vest, of course, but we’ll start to get a sense of what the team will look like. At a minimum, we should be able to tell who’s likely to end up starting come Labor Day weekend based on who gets assigned to the Red squad versus the Black. 

During my time in the Classic City, I used the G Day game to run a scrimmage tailgate to work out the kinks in my process ahead of the fall. With that in mind, this is something of a scrimmage post, knocking the rust off the ol’ blog to gear up for the next season. Here are the five (plus one, kind of) players I’m most interested in seeing this weekend. For the purposes of this exercise, I’m only considering players who will be new to UGA this fall. 

1. Kaiden Prothro, Tight End

You guys remember Brock Bowers? On the off chance you don’t, meet Kaiden Prothro. He’s the highest-rated member of Georgia’s 2026 recruiting class. Like Bowers, he’s technically classified as a tight end, but he’s got a receiver’s skill set. At 6’6” and 230 pounds, he’s a big target for the quarterback, and he excels at making contested catches and breaking tackles with the ball in his hands. And despite his size, he’s deceptively fast once he gets going, which means we could see the welcome return of the Bowers-esque “dumpoff pass that turns into a 75-yard touchdown.” As a testament to his receiving prowess, Prothro finished his high school football career with 66 receiving touchdowns, a record for the state of Georgia. 

Prothro is going to be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. If it’s close to him, he’ll probably catch it. And if he catches it, the defense will need more than one guy to get him on the ground. I cannot wait to see him in the Red and Black. 

2. Isiah Canion, Wide Receiver

For my money, the biggest loss from last year’s team is Zach Branch, who’s off to the NFL draft. He had a strong rapport with Gunner Stockton, racking up more than twice as many receiving yards as anyone else on the roster. He combined track star speed with an actual ability to catch the damn ball, something the 2024 receiving corps often struggled with. Thankfully, Stockton offers continuity at the most important position, but someone is going to have to step up at receiver if the passing game is going to avoid taking a step back.

Perhaps that someone will be transfer wide receiver Isiah Canion, newly arrived from just down the road in Atlanta. In his sophomore season for the Engineers, he led the team with four receiving touchdowns. That may not seem like much until you remember Tech’s offense was mostly based around trying to void Haynes King’s warranty in increasingly baroque ways. At 6’4” and 215 pounds, he’s got the size and toolkit of a possession receiver, which makes him well-suited to attacking the middle of the field in the type of passing game Georgia likes to deploy. He doesn’t have Branch’s top-end speed, but he makes up for it in toughness. If Talyn Taylor can take a step forward this year as a deep threat, the two of them will be a formidable one-two punch for any defense. Add in Prothro, and the offense could be extremely explosive.

3. Khamari Brooks, OLB/EDGE

The most frustrating aspect of last year’s otherwise stout Dawgs squad was an inability to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback, most disastrously in the Sugar Bowl when Chambliss managed to escape no matter how many guys were in the backfield. The stats bear this out. In 2024, Georgia sacked the opposing quarterback 37 times. In 2025, that number dropped to 20. The good news is that Chris Cole and Raylen Wilson are both back, but losing CJ Allen and Christen Miller from the defensive front isn’t going to make things any easier.

The plan seemed to be to shore up the pass rush with Auburn transfer Amaris Williams. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending injury in spring practice. In his absence, freshman Khamari Brooks has an opportunity to make an immediate impact. As a testament to his athleticism, he played both wideout and linebacker at North Oconee High School, earning a four-star rating as a recruit. On the defensive side of the ball, he excelled as a pass rush specialist, tallying eight tackles, including 1.5 sacks in the 2024 state championship game. He’s listed at 6’3” and 245 pounds, so he’s going to be a problem to block, and his technique is already quite sharp for an incoming freshman. As he adds weight and sharpens his abilities, he’s only going to get more dangerous.

Last year, Ellis Robinson IV started the season with some growing pains, getting burned badly in coverage on a big stage. But the coaching staff stuck with him, and by season’s end, he was among the most valuable players on the defense. It’s entirely possible we see something similar with Brooks this year, and I’m very excited about getting a first look at him soon.

4. Khalil Barnes, Safety

With Daylen Everette off to the NFL and Joenel Aguero relocating to Oxford, the back end of the defense will need some help. Say hello to Khalil Barnes, who fled the sinking ship S.S. Clemson to join a functional team to boost his draft stock ahead of his senior year. He established himself as a ball hawky safety in his first two years there, notching seven interceptions across two seasons. He took a bit of a step back last year, but 2025 Clemson was so juiceless it’s hard to say whether that was on him or the team’s badly broken development program. 

We’ll find out when Barnes comes to Athens. He’s an aggressive playmaker over the middle who will make a receiver pay for hesitating on a ball. That aggressiveness means he gets burned sometimes (though what safety doesn’t?), but his speed means he can run down receivers and running backs who get behind him. That speed and his physicality also mean that you can bring him on a disguised blitz, which should provide some more options for generating QB pressure too. 

5. Wade Register, Punter

Maybe this is shades of Vince Dooley worrying about the long snapper (or snappah, if you prefer), but we’ve been spoiled with Brett Thorson handling punting duties. He was extremely reliable, which is vital for one of the most high-leverage moments in a game. Punting is like my lack of a real retirement plan: I don’t wanna think about it. Fortunately, incoming freshman Wade Register was the top-ranked punter in the state of Georgia by most rating services, and it’ll be good to get a look at his abilities in a semi-live-fire situation. 

Of course, now that I type it out, I realize “I’m excited about seeing the punting” is the kind of thing only an absolute degenerate would say. But it’s true!  

6. Bonus! Tie: Zach Lewis, Zykie Helton, Tyreek Jemison, Graham Houston, Ekene Ogboko

Another Achilles’ heel for the 2025 Dawgs was the inconsistent offensive line play. Whether due to injuries or personnel problems, Stacy Searels just couldn’t seem to figure out a regular combination up front. Two of the group’s better players, Monroe Freeling and Micah Morris, are gone too. Hopefully, these five new linemen can get some playing time and start getting up to speed.

What piques your interest this Saturday?

After a nearly two-week hiatus for MLB Best Home Run Bets, today’s picks will look to return with a bang. As a reminder, bets on players to hit homers will lose more often than they win.

To that point, the best home run bets for the season are only 3-6-1 (the one is a no bet for Griffin Conine because he didn’t start). Line shopping –looking for the most favorable betting odds across all available sportsbooks in a bettor’s particular market– and informed home run bets can yield a profit, even with a losing record.

Despite the 3-6-1 record for the best home run bets this season, any readers and gamblers who placed $100 wagers on all of the suggested home run props at the listed odds are up $800 on the season.

There will eventually be downs in the rollercoaster of betting on homers. Still, the early-season winners provide some wiggle room, and two players with long odds on today’s MLB slate would provide an even bigger cushion for turning a profit in 2026 if either or both reached the seats this afternoon.

MLB Best Home Run Bets

Luis Arraez (San Francisco Giants - 2B)

Over 0.5 Home Runs (+760) at FanDuel Sportsbook

Luis Arraez hasn’t hit a home run in 17 games and 71 plate appearances for the San Francisco Giants this year. The left-handed-hitting, contact-oriented infielder’s batting profile is built on batting average over power, and he’s hit only 36 homers in 857 games and 3,604 career plate appearances.

Arraez’s career high for homers is only 10 in 147 games and 617 plate appearances in 2023. His second-highest total is eight home runs in a season, which he’s reached twice.

Lightning could strike for Arraez today, though. He has hit two of his 36 career homers (5.6%) in only 12 games (1.4% of his career games played) and 51 plate appearances (1.4% of his career plate appearances) at Great American Ball Park.

Among 29 ballparks with data from 2024 through 2026, Great American Ball Park has the second-highest park factor for home runs (118). It’s a launching pad.

Arraez also has a desirable matchup for tapping into his infrequent home run power. Chase Burns has allowed six homers and 1.93 home runs per nine innings (HR/9) to 135 left-handed batters since reaching the Majors last season.

The conditions are optimal for Arraez to hit his first homer of 2026. While his +760 odds listed above and available at FanDuel Sportsbook are outstanding, gamblers in markets with Hard Rock Bet can get even tastier +1000 odds for Arraez to hit a homer. Arraez is an appealing bet at either odds.

Carter Jensen (Kansas City Royals - C)

Over 0.5 Home Runs (+526) at DraftKings Sportsbook

Carter Jensen has massive power. FanGraphs graded his current game power 50 and his current raw power 55 on the 20-to-80 scouting scale and his future game power 55 and future raw power 60 on their 2026 preseason prospect report.

The 22-year-old’s power translated to 20 home runs in 492 plate appearances between Double-A and Triple-A last year and three more in 69 plate appearances for the Royals. The left-handed-hitting slugger has already hit four home runs in 17 games and 53 plate appearances this season.

All seven of his homers have come against right-handers in 92 career plate appearances against them. Jensen will take cuts against a right-handed starter today.

Keider Montero will get the ball for the Tigers. The 25-year-old righty has bounced up and down between the minors and Majors since 2024, and he’s spent time starting and relieving. In 41 career appearances (30 starts) and 199.1 innings for the Tigers in his career, Montero has allowed 1.58 HR/9.

Furthermore, Montero has been homer-prone against left-handed batters. The 208 lefties who’ve faced Montero since last year have taken him deep 10 times, a pace of approximately 29 homers per 600 plate appearances. Jensen’s +526 odds to hit a home run offered at DraftKings Sportsbook are too long for a player with his power profile and matchup this afternoon, and gamblers should take advantage of the bargain.

This article was originally published on Forbes.com

We’re all still trying to figure out what went wrong in a game that the Mariners were winning handily for eight innings. Emerson Hancock was brilliant, giving up just one two-run homer over six innings of work. Luke Raley had his first ever four-hit game, and made a nifty catch in the outfield to boot. The Mariners did strike out double-digits (12), but also recorded double-digit hits (10) and took seven walks. And all of it didn’t matter, because the bullpen allowed a five-run inning in the ninth and the Padres walked it off, 7-6. The Mariners have now lost seven straight games on the road. They are back to three games below .500 after getting tantalizingly close to a winning record for the first time since March 30th. The good vibes, which roared to life after a four-game sweep against the Astros, are once again on life support.

Seriously, what the heck?

Things started off so well. Emerson Hancock was again fantastic, working through the sixth inning with the only damage against him a two-run homer from the impossibly hot-hitting Xander Bogaerts (also the only Padres hitter who had homered off Hancock previously). Hancock was untouchable over the first half of his outing, no-hitting the Padres the first time through the order before giving up a base hit to Bogaerts, who had two of the four hits the Padres mustered off Hancock. Hancock owned the strike zone tonight, throwing 20 of 23 first-pitch strikes and constantly working ahead of hitters, finishing with six strikeouts to just one walk. There were a couple of those wonky sweepers that strayed too far from the zone, but he also collected three of his six strikeouts on the pitch. He pounded the bottom of the zone with the sinker and sweeper, but also successfully changed hitters’ eye levels with his four-seamer up, staying out of the meaty part of the zone. It was a stellar performance from Hancock on Jackie Robinson Day; the two happen to share a hometown (Cairo, Georgia).

That is the story that should be told about this game – that and the performance of the offense, which scored six runs for Hancock. Dominic Canzone got the Mariners on the board in the second, as the scalding-hot Randy-Raley duo got on base (Arozarena with another walk, Luke with a nice single on a changeup); Canzone then torched the hardest-hit ball the Mariners have had all season, a 114 mph laser line drive that hit the foul pole that’s in play for some reason and rolled away from a bewildered-looking Nick Castellanos.

The Mariners could have gotten more in the third – Cal Raleigh recorded hit #500, a double, and then Jackson Merrill robbed Julio of a home run over the center field wall. Payback for all the homers Julio has robbed, I guess, but it sure feels unfair, especially considering how this game ended.

But the Mariners were only temporarily discouraged. The patience the hitters showed in the Astros series returned with a vengeance in the third; Cole Young and Leo Rivas both worked two-out walks, loading the bases (Randy had led off the inning with a double). The Rivas walk was especially impressive, as Rivas challenged a strike three call on a pitch clearly inside. That set up Brendan Donovan, who got himself into a hitter-friendly 2-0 count before lacing a ball through the right side of the infield for another two runs.

Cal Raleigh also worked a walk that inning, as the Mariners pushed Padres starter Randy Vásquez to 85 pitches in the fourth. Not that the Padres bullpen is any walk in the park, but after needing to use their leverage arms last night, that set up the Mariners well – something Luke Raley took advantage of against new pitcher Ron Marinaccio in the fifth, walloping this no-doubter two-run homer (scoring Randy, once again on in scoring position thanks to a single and a stolen base, his fifth already of the year).

This would also be a nice story to tell about this game: Luke Raley, risen from the specter of injury that haunted his 2025, hitting a new career milestone, on a night when his buddy Cal Raleigh also hit a career milestone and his other new buddy Brendan Donovan knocked in two runs of his own. A real power of friendship recap.

But unfortunately, it’s not the one we can tell, because the ninth inning happened. Backing up, because again, we’re all still trying to figure out what happened here: Eduard Bazardo pitched a perfect seventh inning, and Gabe Speier handled the eighth. Dan Wilson then called for Andrés Muñoz to come in for the ninth in a non-save situation. Muñoz hasn’t looked right this year, seemingly struggling with his slider command, but has managed to scrape out of some sticky situations. There would be no scraping out tonight, unless it was the scraping out of my eyeballs with a melon baller after watching the bottom of the ninth.

To be fair to Muñoz, he suffered some bad batted-ball luck, although he didn’t help himself out by walking Manny Machado to lead off the inning. Gavin Sheets then snuck a ball past Donovan at third, putting runners on at second and third with no one out. Muñoz was able to get Nick Castellanos swinging after a slider for the first out, but then suffered more bad luck on a Baltimore chop from Ty France that Muñoz couldn’t field cleanly, loading the bases and bringing up the tying run in the form of pinch-hitter Fernando Tatís. Tatís hit a sac fly, bringing in a run.

Okay. Not ideal, but okay. Two outs, still a three-run lead, an out at any base but third, and the nine-hole hitter coming up. But despite getting Luis Campusano in an 0-2 count, Muñoz went back to the slider for a third time and hung it, allowing a hard-hit single and turning over the lineup. It wasn’t a scoring play, but in retrospect, this was probably the breaking point of this game. Ramón Laureano would then hit another single, yanking a good pitch inside for a single because that’s what Laureano does, setting up the wunderkind Jackson Merrill for a walkoff winner off new pitcher Jose Ferrer. We can heap a little fault on Ferrer, even with Muñoz taking the loss, for going to the sinker for a third straight pitch in a 2-2 count and failing to put away his lefty hitter, and maybe to Randy Arozarena for dropping the transfer on Merrill’s double, eliminating any play at the plate (merciful, some might say, the some being recap writers), but this mess was of Muñoz’s doing. It’s the worst solution to a mystery story I didn’t want to write in the first place. Here’s hoping for a happier story next time.

Dalton Johnson‬: Steve Kerr: "This is why Steph came back. So to everybody out there who thought Steph should have taken the rest of the year off, this is what he does. This is who he is! If he's going to compete, he's going to compete. And it was just incredible to watch."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Steve Kerr: 'This is why Steph came back'

‪Oh No He Didn't‬: Steve Kerr: "For one night, we're us. We're champions again I know that that may sound crazy to everybody out there, it's a play in game. I don't care"

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Steve Kerr: "For one night, we're us. We're champions …

‪Dalton Johnson‬: Draymond Green tells me his emotions after the Warriors' WILD NBA play-in win against the Clippers: "Anytime you got Steph Curry, you got a chance. So it's on all of us to give him a chance to show his greatness. Everybody did their part."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond Green: 'Anytime you got Steph Curry, you got a chance'

‪dan favale‬: blake griffin to stephen curry: "it was a lot more fun not watching it in person. i still got ptsd."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Blake griffin to stephen curry: "it was a lot more fun …

‪Nate Duncan‬: There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: There's nobody like Stephen Curry in a play-in game

Ramona Shelburne: “30 did what 30 does. That was the 4th quarter.” Darius Garland on Stephen Curry and the Warriors.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “30 did what 30 does. That was the 4th quarter.” …

Darius Garland: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take my hat off to this group, for real. All 15 guys played their butts off."

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Darius Garland: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take my hat off to this group, for real. All 15 guys played their butts off."

— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) April 16, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "Not the way we wanted to end this season. But I take …

Farbod Esnaashari: Darius Garland on what he wanted to prove after getting traded to the Clippers: "I just wanted to really come out here and prove a point that I'm still one of those guys in this league... Just go on the drawing board this summer, get healthy, see what we can do with a full season."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I just wanted to really come out here and prove a …

But in the end, Durant made it clear that the upcoming playoff matchup between the Rockets and the Lakers simply shouldn't revolve around him and LeBron. "It’s always great playing against great players. You feel their presence on the floor even if you’re not matched up with them. But like all basketball players know — and anyone who’s around the game deeply understands — it’s much more than just one player. It’s much more than two or three players. You need a whole group of guys to go out there and win basketball games, especially at this level and especially four times against a team like that," Durant said after the Rockets' Wednesday practice. "So yeah, of course, on the outside looking in, casual fans might see it differently, but people who are in it every day know the matchup is much deeper than that. Yeah, the matchup is definitely fun—two great players who’ve been in the league a long time—but everybody involved in the series knows it’s more than that."

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "It’s always great playing against great players. You …

Benjamin Royer: Didn't realize this until now since it comes down to such a small margin ... but LeBron James put up a career-low in points per game in the 2025-26 season, fewer than his rookie campaign in Cleveland. 2003-04 (his rookie year): 20.936 ppg 2025-26 (his 23rd season): 20.933 ppg

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LeBron James put up a career-low in points per game in …

Referee Ben Taylor left the play-in tournament game between the Golden State Warriors and the LA Clippers because of an injury Wednesday night. Taylor walked stiffly off the court and went up the tunnel behind one basket at Intuit Dome with 8:51 left in the third quarter. He was replaced by alternate referee Sean Corbin after a brief delay. The NBA sends a fourth alternate referee to every postseason game for exactly such a situation.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ben Taylor left the play-in tournament game between …

The Los Angeles Clippers’ season is over. There’s one guy in particular who seems quite happy about that.

Chris Paul, the twice-over former Clipper who retired from the NBA after an acrimonious divorce with the team during the season, responded to the team’s 126-121 loss to the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament on Wednesday with a single meme.

There were no words, but Paul didn’t need them to convey his message when he posted a certain image on his Instagram story. The internet is quite aware this image comes with the caption, “I stopped by one of my biggest haters funeral today just to make sure that n**** was dead.”

Instagram

Time does not appear to be healing any wounds so far.

In case you need a refresher on Paul might be enjoying the Clippers’ demise, this season saw him sign with the team for his final NBA season, fall out with leadership after they didn’t appreciate his presence in the locker room, get permanently exiled from the organization, get dealt to the Toronto Raptors at the trade deadline and finally retire rather than try to hop onto a contender.

Paul, the Clippers’ all-time assists leader and one of the best players in franchise history, has not been shy about his displeasure with the franchise ins retirement. Soon after retiring, he was airing grievances on his friend Carmelo Anthony’s podcast. And now both parties are done for the season.

Wednesday was a brutal night for the Clippers

As awkward as Paul’s exit was, it was less embarrassing than what happened to the Clippers on Wednesday. Facing a diminished Warriors team that only got Stephen Curry back a week ago, the Clippers seemingly had 10 different opportunities to turn a big lead into an insurmountable one.

They failed at that every single time, and then got ripped apart by a vintage Curry and the Warriors’ other aging veterans down the stretch. They led for 85% of the game, at home, and lost.

It gets even worse, though, as the Clippers won’t even get to enjoy a lottery pick. They owe their unprotected 2026 first-rounder to the Oklahoma City Thunder due to the Paul George trade, which could now land in the top 4. They do have the Indiana Pacers pick thanks to the Ivica Zubac trade, but that only goes to them if it lands between No. 5 and 9.

Oh, and the team is also still awaiting the results of the NBA’s investigation into their Leonard-Aspiration scandal, which could come with significant repercussions if the league finds they circumvented the salary cap.

The Paul situation was another chapter of dysfunction in the Clippers’ recent history, but it might only be one part of a bad 2026 for them.

On Day 2 of the NFL draft for the last many years, the league has added a little bit of intrigue to keep more casual fans interested in watching. They have done that by having team legends or current stars announce selections for the second and third rounds of the draft.

The Arizona Cardinals announced that in the draft next week, it will not be a past legend like Karlos Dansby, Jim Hart, Deuece Lutui and others. Instead, it will be running back James Conner, who returns to the Cardinals in 2026 on Day 2. He will announce the Cardinals' selections in the second and third rounds. They have the 34th overall pick and the 65th.

Day 2 of the draft will start on Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. ET, or 4 p.m. Arizona time.

Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.

This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: 2026 NFL draft: James Conner to announced Arizona Cardinals' Day 2 picks

Shohei Ohtani dominates as Dodgers drop hammer on miserable Mets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Mets can't catch a break as Shohei Ohtani's another special outing on the mound could only mean one thing. The Los Angeles Dodgers extended the Mets' losing streak to eight games as they completed the three-game series sweep with an 8-2 win on Jackie Robinson Day. 

Coming into this game, Ohtani had thrown 28.2 consecutive scoreless innings. Add four more innings to it before the Mets finally entered the run column with MJ Melendez's RBI double in the fifth inning to break Ohtani's incredible pitching streak.

Ohtani struck out 10 batters in his six innings for one run. Blake Treinen and Tanner Scott followed up with scoreless innings of their own. Kyle Hurt allowed one run in the ninth but struck out the side in the ninth inning.

More: Is there any reason to worry about Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani’s arm after latest comments?

Dodgers explain Shohei Ohtani's shocking hitting absence vs Mets

Shohei Ohtani was shockingly absent from the Dodgers' hitting lineup as Kyle Tucker was assigned the role to lead off at the plate. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts erred on the side of caution to rest Ohtani after the hit by pitch on Monday. 

“If it weren’t for the hit-by-pitch, he would have been DH and pitching tonight,” Roberts said before the game. “This one game, it just makes the most sense to give us the best chance to manage the shoulder and back.”

On offense for the Dodgers, Hyeseong Kim shot a two-run home run in the second inning off Mets ace Clay Holmes. Teoscar Hernandez extended the lead to 3-1 with a solo home run in the sixth inning. The biggest blast of the night came in the eighth inning with Dalton Rushing pulling up Devin Williams' 85 mph changeup for a grand slam. Tucker sealed the 8-2 game with his solo home run as the Mets could do little in the ninth.

More Dodgers news:

Dodgers' Alex Vesia reveals heartfelt meaning behind post-save gesture

Dodgers’ Alex Vesia describes unmatched 'adrenaline' during clutch save on 30th birthday

Dodgers' Alex Vesia opens up after heartbreaking family loss

Dodgers stay mysterious as Edwin Diaz questions swirl

Yankees' MLB power rankings spot has key relation to Dodgers

Bryan Clay Invitational 2026 schedule, TV coverage, live streams and more to watch track and field meet originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

One of the most highly anticipated collegiate track and field events is back — the 2026 Bryan Clay Invitational returns to Azusa Pacific this week.

Every year, the Bryan Clay Invitational brings thousands of collegiates from hundreds of schools out to the Azusa foothills for a weekend of packed competition in California. The event features elite, open and invitational heats across dozens of events, attracting many of the top NCAA athletes in the country.

Designated as a World Athletics Continental Tour Challenger Event, this competition is known for its intense environment and high-quality performances. Be sure to tune in as athletes bring the heat to Azusa Pacific.

Here's everything you need to know about the 2026 Bryan Clay Invitational, including TV channel and streaming options for the annual track and field meet.

Where to watch Bryan Clay Invitational 2026

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream:FloTrack

The 2026 Bryan Clay Invitational will not be broadcast on traditional television. Instead, fans can watch every event on FloTrack, which will cover each day of the meet.

Purchasing a FloTrack subscription gives sports fans access to live streams, event replays and FloSports Originals.

Bryan Clay Invitational 2026 schedule

The 2026 Bryan Clay Invitational will take place from Thursday, April 16, to Saturday, April 18, at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, California. Below is a look at the schedule for each day of competition.

Thursday, April 16

Running Events — Track

Friday, April 17

Running Events — Track

Field Events