Contract Standoff Raises Stakes in Madrid

There are football stories that drift quietly through a transfer window and then there are those that arrive carrying thunderclouds. Vinicius Junior and Real Madrid may now be edging towards the latter.

According to the original source at TEAMtalk, Manchester City are among the clubs closely monitoring the Brazilian’s increasingly delicate contract situation at the Bernabeu. What once appeared unthinkable now carries genuine weight. Real Madrid have reportedly issued a firm contract ultimatum to one of their biggest stars.

Vinicius Junior has just over a year remaining on his current deal and discussions over an extension have failed to reach a breakthrough. Talks stalled last year before both sides agreed to revisit matters this summer. Yet the sense emerging from Spain is that several major issues remain unresolved.

The original source states that Real Madrid informed Vinicius Junior last year that if no agreement was reached this summer, the club would consider selling him rather than risking a free transfer further down the line. Importantly, that position is said to remain unchanged.

For a club built on authority and image, Real Madrid rarely allow uncertainty to linger around elite assets. Vinicius Junior is not simply another forward. He is a symbol of Madrid’s modern era, explosive in transition, devastating one-on-one and capable of deciding the biggest matches in world football.

Yet even institutions as powerful as Madrid eventually reach moments where pragmatism overtakes sentiment.

Man City Ready to Strike if Door Opens

Manchester City’s interest feels entirely logical. Opportunities to sign players operating at Vinicius Junior’s level almost never arrive on the market.

Pep Guardiola’s side are believed to view the situation as a rare strategic opening rather than a routine transfer chase. TEAMtalk reports that City are serious contenders should negotiations between player and club deteriorate further.

City’s admiration is rooted not only in talent but in timing. Questions surrounding the long-term future of Jeremy Doku have created uncertainty around the left-sided attacking role. Even after strengthening in recent windows, the Premier League champions are understood to believe Vinicius Junior represents a level above almost every available alternative.

There is also the financial reality. Very few clubs possess the resources required to complete a deal of this magnitude. Manchester City belong in that bracket alongside Paris Saint-Germain and a small collection of Europe’s financial heavyweights.

Arsenal and Chelsea are also said to be watching developments closely. Liverpool and Manchester United have reportedly been alerted too, although any move would demand extraordinary financial commitment.

Still, there is a difference between monitoring a situation and genuinely being capable of completing the transfer. Man City operate in a world where blockbuster deals are not fantasy. They are business decisions.

Vinicius Junior Still Focused on Madrid Future

Despite the noise, there remains a strong possibility that Vinicius Junior stays exactly where he is.

The winger is understood to want reassurance that Real Madrid’s long-term sporting project aligns with his own ambitions. Money alone is not believed to be the defining factor in negotiations. The club reportedly feel their financial offer is already competitive.

On the pitch, Vinicius Junior continues to perform at elite level. He has scored four goals in his last three league appearances and sits on 21 goals for the season overall, only three short of his personal best for Los Blancos.

There is, however, another layer to this story. The Brazilian has repeatedly faced racist abuse during his time in Spain, a disgraceful pattern that has stained sections of La Liga in recent years. While the original source indicates this is not expected to determine his future directly, it remains an exhausting backdrop for one of football’s brightest stars.

A player can love a club and still grow weary of the environment surrounding it.

Summer Window Could Define European Landscape

If Vinicius Junior genuinely becomes available, the consequences would ripple across Europe.

Players of this calibre do not simply alter squads. They reshape title races, commercial strategies and tactical identities. Manchester City understand that. Real Madrid understand it even more.

The coming weeks are likely to revolve around one central question. Will compromise be found before the contract ultimatum reaches breaking point?

For now, Madrid remain confident a resolution can still be achieved. Yet confidence and certainty are very different things in modern football.

And when clubs like Man City begin positioning themselves nearby, uncertainty quickly becomes dangerous.

Chelsea concerns grow before Liverpool test

Chelsea travel to Liverpool this weekend carrying more than poor form into one of the toughest fixtures in the Premier League calendar. Injuries, fitness doubts and fading confidence have combined to leave Calum McFarlane facing difficult decisions before the meeting at Anfield.

The London club have slipped alarmingly after six consecutive league defeats, a sequence which has damaged hopes of securing European football next season. With Liverpool chasing a crucial result of their own, the match arrives with pressure mounting on both sides.

Speaking in his pre-match briefing, McFarlane attempted to strike a balance between caution and optimism as he addressed the growing injury list. His update offered encouragement in some areas but concern in others.

“We’ve got a few lads returning, so Levi’s trained another full week again, Reece as well, so yeah, looking promising,” the Chelsea interim head coach explained.

“We’ve still got another session, they both trained fully today, so we’re hopeful.”

Those words will be welcomed by Chelsea supporters desperate for defensive stability. Levi Colwill and Reece James have both endured frustrating fitness problems this season and their possible return could transform the shape and composure of the side against Liverpool.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool wait on key fitness calls

Liverpool are wrestling with injury uncertainty of their own before the weekend showdown. Training sessions at Kirkby have been watched closely after several high-profile absences raised concerns among supporters.

Reports from the original source indicated that Mohamed Salah, Alisson Becker and Alexander Isak all missed Wednesday’s training session, while Ibrahima Konate and Florian Wirtz trained separately from the main group.

That leaves Arne Slot with important decisions to make before facing Chelsea. Liverpool’s intensity and attacking fluency have occasionally suffered when key names are unavailable, particularly in matches where rhythm and pressing become decisive.

Despite Chelsea’s poor recent form, Liverpool know there is little margin for complacency. Fixtures between these clubs rarely follow expectations and the tension surrounding Champions League qualification only increases the stakes.

The atmosphere at Anfield is likely to be fierce, particularly with Liverpool supporters sensing the importance of the occasion. Chelsea, meanwhile, arrive wounded but dangerous, aware that one strong performance could shift momentum dramatically.

Fresh doubts hit Chelsea attack

While McFarlane sounded upbeat regarding Colwill and James, the news elsewhere was less encouraging.

“[Pedro] Neto and [Alejandro] Garnacho are carrying knocks, so it’s looking unlikely that they’re going to be available,” he confirmed.

“Rob is also not going to be available after the injury that he sustained.”

The absence of Robert Sanchez creates another selection issue for Chelsea, while doubts over Neto and Garnacho significantly weaken the visitors in attacking areas. Both players possess the direct pace capable of unsettling Liverpool’s defensive line, particularly during transitions.

There was also concern surrounding Jesse Derry after the youngster suffered a serious head injury during the recent defeat to Nottingham Forest. McFarlane confirmed he will not feature at Anfield, while Jamie Gittens and Estevao remain sidelined.

Chelsea’s squad depth has been tested heavily throughout the campaign and this latest injury update only intensifies scrutiny on recruitment and conditioning. The club’s inability to maintain consistency has become one of the defining stories of their season.

Yet football has a habit of rewarding resilience when expectations fall away. Chelsea may arrive as outsiders but the potential return of senior defenders could alter the dynamic considerably.

Pressure builds around crucial Premier League fixture

Matches between Chelsea and Liverpool have long carried a sense of edge and unpredictability. Even during uneven seasons, the rivalry often produces tactical battles and emotionally charged moments.

For Liverpool, this fixture represents another step in the pursuit of Champions League qualification and a chance to restore momentum. Slot’s side cannot afford hesitation, especially with injuries threatening to disrupt continuity at a vital stage of the campaign.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are fighting for relevance after a bruising run of results. McFarlane’s comments reflected a manager attempting to steady an uncertain dressing room while keeping belief alive.

The likely return of Colwill and James offers genuine encouragement, particularly against a Liverpool side that thrives on attacking pressure from wide areas. However, the probable absence of Neto and Garnacho reduces Chelsea’s threat on the counter-attack.

Everything points towards a contest shaped as much by endurance and mentality as technical quality. Injuries may dominate the headlines before kick-off, but once the match begins, composure and conviction could define the outcome.

Original source information was provided through comments made by Calum McFarlane during his pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Liverpool.

TSG Hoffenheim loanee Haris Tabakovic will leave Borussia Mönchengladbach, at least for the time being, based on reports.

Sky Germany is aware that the striker was informed of this in a personal meeting with the Rhineland club's hierarchy.

However, Gladbach reportedly want to keep their options open to potentially rejoin the transfer negotiations at a later date.

The 31-year-old marksman himself is said to be open to a permanent move to Gladbach, for whom he has scored 12 goals this season. 

However, there is a sticking point. Hoffenheim's €5million price tag is currently too high for Borussia Mönchengladbach.

Consequently, Tabakovic will initially return to Hoffenheim, where he is not part of their plans for the upcoming 2026-27 campaign. 

ESPN analyst predicts Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes- type year for Caleb Williams originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

All Chicago Bears fans are hopeful that the team will eventually reach the top of the football world. Bears fans have been dying for success over the past few years and got their first taste of that last year. The Bears ended up making the playoffs, and quarterback Caleb Williams was a big reason why. 

There's absolutely no debate at this point that if Chicago is going to be the team they want to be in the future, it is absolutely going to be because of what Williams does under center. 

There's reason to believe that he's one of the better quarterbacks in the NFL and has a long future in this league if things go as planned.

Some believe there will be even more success for the young man after an impressive second year in the league, with Danny Parkins going as far as saying that he can even be the league MVP next year.

"And then on the other side, yeah, but it's Caleb [Williams] in year two with Ben Johnson, and throughout league history, special quarterbacks in year two in a system, that is special stuff. Those guys win MVP. Like, that's what happened to Patrick Mahomes.

"That's what happened to Lamar Jackson. So if we think that Caleb is of that talent, which I do, and we think Ben Johnson is of that caliber of offensive coach, which I do, the argument that the Bears will be better is simply they're going to have a top-five offense, and they're going to have a quarterback who is in the MVP conversation come December."

I never want to put MVP chatter on any guy in the NFL, as that's very difficult to do if you've never done it. 

However, Williams is definitely the type of guy who can get to that point. As long as everything continues to go as planned and he stays healthy, there's a lot of reason to believe that he can be this guy in the long term and as soon as this year.

More NFL news:

• Bears’ Caleb Williams given ridiculous spot in latest quarterback rankings
• Former Bears QB bust meeting with Super Bowl contender this weekend
• Cowboys ex-edge rusher floated as realistic target for Bears to still sign in free agency
• Seahawks’ Kenneth Walker makes strange admission after signing with Chiefs
• Browns’ Shedeur Sanders warned entering 2026 NFL season, given bad news about future in Cleveland
• Browns predicted to end Shedeur Sanders experiment by landing Notre Dame star that no one is talking about

Fans of South Shields are gearing up for the National League North play-off final on Saturday, hoping one last push can propel them to glory.

The Mariners are on the cusp of promotion to the National League but need to find a way to beat Kidderminster Harriers who won both encounters earlier this season.

Long-term fan Mark Brun told BBC Radio Newcastle: "Kidderminster are a very good side, but we're a very good side as well. We have home advantage, passionate support, I do feel that we'll seize the opportunity and get promoted."

Tickets for the match sold out in minutes and some home fans will move to other parts of the stadium to accommodate larger numbers of away supporters.

Turnstile operator Alan Reed said: "This is big. We're expecting a full house, people that haven't been all season are coming down thanks to the success of the club."

Jim Taroni, who has been attending matches for almost 70 years, said: "I used to support them as a boy, and now I've retired I'm back to my hometown and supporting Shields.

"My first match was around 1957, they used to play in red and green strips and I can remember most of the players by name.

"I'm feeling very apprehensive. There's a lot of excitement, even the worms are getting out of the woodwork to get to this match."

Rob Reed, a comedy magician who sometimes performs at the club, thinks despite South Shields losing both games between the clubs this season the Mariners will triumph.

He told the BBC: "People always ask if I can work my magic on the pitch.

"The lads don't need any magic, they're magic enough.

"I'm quietly confident on Saturday we'll get the job done.

"Kidderminster done the double over us in the league, but it's our turn to get revenge.

"We've lost the battles but the war's still there for the taking."

Kerry works at a bar near the stadium and is expecting a busy Saturday.

"It's always a good atmosphere, we'll have queues out the door.

"I think it's great, the people are all amazing and it's nice to see a local team doing so well."

Her colleague Candice said: "I think it's amazing, and it's really good for us at the bar too!"

'Tremendous feeling'

Geordie Pearce , who runs a fan group on social media, said: "It's nerves and excitement.

"I've seen playoffs here before and we've come off second. It'll be great to see this ground full again.

"It's a tremendous feeling for the fans to be part of a club like this.

"We get a lot of younger fans coming now and on a matchday you can hear them with their drums and their chanting.

"Even away fans look at the stadium and the fans and think 'why aren't you in the Football League?'."

Meanwhile, Mark Burns is looking forward and hoping for a turnaround in recent fortunes.

"We haven't beat Kidderminster at all this season and it's about time we do.

"It's sold out. It's gonna be electric."

Saturday's playoff will kick off at the 1st Cloud Arena at 12:30 BST.

Coverage with BBC Radio Newcastle's Colin White and Paul Dickson begins from 12:00 BST on BBC Sounds.

Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.

More on this story

• Mariners into final with 'really special' support

Related internet links

• South Shields

Bears’ Caleb Williams given ridiculous spot in latest quarterback rankings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

If I had to pick a young quarterback to build my team around, I'd go with Caleb Williams. 

I was very impressed with what the Chicago Bears quarterback did a year ago and believe he has an opportunity to be just as good as everybody expected him to be coming out of USC. 

There were some lofty expectations placed on Williams, and in year two, his first with new head coach Ben Johnson, he was excellent, throwing for 3,942 yards, 27 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

However, that hasn't stopped others from saying that he's not as good as some might think. In fact, there are people out there who believe that he's not even the best quarterback in his draft class, even though it seemed rather obvious a year ago.

"Caleb Williams has the goods, but the dip in completion percentage is slightly concerning. We'll see if year two with Ben Johnson can fix things there, but it's clear that Williams has this off-schedule, clutch ability that only a few others in the league have, and that's going to be a quality that allows the Chicago Bears to win a ton of games,” Lou Scataglia, who ranked Williams behind Bo Nix and Drake Maye, wrote.

The only one who should really have any conversation with Williams, to me, is Maye. 

I don't think Maye is nearly as good as Williams, but that's just my opinion. Regardless, Williams is going to have to go out and show that he will be the guy in the long term.

More NFL news:

• Former Bears QB bust meeting with Super Bowl contender this weekend
• Cowboys ex-edge rusher floated as realistic target for Bears to still sign in free agency
• Seahawks’ Kenneth Walker makes strange admission after signing with Chiefs
• Browns’ Shedeur Sanders warned entering 2026 NFL season, given bad news about future in Cleveland
• Browns predicted to end Shedeur Sanders experiment by landing Notre Dame star that no one is talking about
• Dolphins predicted to add Ohio State star in move that would change Malik Willis’ future in Miami

Former Bears QB bust meeting with Super Bowl contender this weekend originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Chicago Bears have had some very interesting quarterbacks on their roster in the past, which, honestly, isn't the best thing. 

Not only have the Bears attempted to find an answer with multiple veteran quarterbacks and failed to do so, but they've had a slew of guys who are either not in the league any longer or are still looking for jobs, showing how bad things really were at one point in time.

One of those guys was Nathan Peterman, a 32-year-old who was selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. 

Peterman played in Buffalo for two seasons before joining the Las Vegas Raiders and then the Bears.

According to the latest report, the veteran is eyeing another team, as he'll visit the Denver Broncos for a rookie minicamp tryout this weekend.

“Per source, the #Broncos are giving veteran QB Nathan Peterman a rookie minicamp tryout this weekend,” Mike Klis posted on X. “Last with Saints, Raiders, Falcons in 2024, Peterman turned 32 on Monday.”

Peterman has been on practice squads over the past few years and hasn't appeared in a game since 2023. His last completion came during the 2022 season with the Bears, when he threw for 139 yards and completed 56% of his passes.

He's probably nothing more than a practice squad guy at this stage of his career, but he'll have a chance to prove that he's more than that this weekend.

Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander takes major shot at Lakers over officiating complaints originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers were fed up with the officials in Game 2 of their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers now find themselves down two games in the series.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick was quick to voice his frustrations following the contest. Redick feels as if Shai Gilgeous-Alexander receives a helping hand on some foul calls.

However, Redick was not the only Laker with issues regarding the officiating in the game. At the end of the contest, Austin Reaves gathered with the referees at midcourt alongside the rest of his teammates.

“The Lakers were furious with the officiating during their Game 2 loss to the Thunder on Thursday night, and they let them hear about it. After L.A. lost 125-107 to fall behind 2-0 in their Western Conference semifinal series, guard Austin Reaves got in the faces of the officials and gave them a long lecture. The rest of his teammates were gathered around, and LeBron James could be seen nodding along with his teammate,” SI’s Ryan Phillips wrote.

The Thunder do not feel they receive any sort of favoritism when it comes to foul calls. Gilgeous-Alexander was in good spirits after the game and was heard making a comment about the Lakers meeting with officials at midcourt.

“Do we get to meet (too)?” Gilgeous-Alexander could be heard joking nearby.

Of course, Gilgeous-Alexander was simply poking the bear, but in a sense, he was also calling out the Lakers for something that is not typically seen. The Thunder got the job done in controlling the series at home, heading to Los Angeles without a loss.

Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder believe they have rattled the Lakers with their focus on officiating. There is no sense of pressure from Oklahoma City right now, which is why Gilgeous-Alexander has no issue taking subtle jabs at Los Angeles.

More NBA news:

• Lakers' JJ Redick voices frustration with Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander whistle favoritism

• Lakers' Austin Reaves unloads on official for being 'disrespectful' during Thunder game

• Lakers facing familiar LeBron James dilemma, need an Austin Reaves lifeline against Thunder

• Lakers' LeBron James gives blunt take on Austin Reaves' shooting struggles vs. Thunder

Former Aston Villa forward Dion Dublin says Unai Emery's side "gave blood, sweat and tears" as they "blew Nottingham Forest apart" to reach the Europa League final.

Villa are a game away from their first major silverware for three decades and a first European trophy in 44 years as they look to try to stand with the club's European champions of 1982.

"The players in claret and blue put a proper shift in," said Dublin on BBC Radio 5 Live. "They did everything correct to a man and gave blood, sweat and tears.

"When you're in a position like this, you look in the mirror and say 'I need to do a job' and those Villa players did their job.

"You have to trust the manager because even though they all have individual bits of skill, you have to take into consideration it's a team game and as a team they could be a juggernaut.

"I've not seen Villa play like that for a long time. So convincing.

"Anyone coming into Villa Park with the noise [from the fans] and atmosphere would have found it hard to handle.

"It's a night I don't think any of us will forget. It's not happened in a while.

"It wasn't a given Villa would reach the final just because they're a big football club, but they worked incredibly hard and they showed what they can do.

"They blew Forest apart and pushed them aside because they want to be in the final. They said 'this is our house and you're getting nothing from us'."

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MLB insider sends harsh warning to Yankees’ Anthony Volpe, but it’s fair originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees made the decision they did with Anthony Volpe, and there isn't a whole lot more to say about it in terms of that. However, there's a lot to think about for the future of both him and this organization, and I'd be a bit surprised if that includes him being on the big league roster long-term. 

The Yankees will have to decide whether moving on from him via trade would make sense or keeping him down in the minor leagues until they figure something out.

Regardless, it definitely sounds like Volpe has gotten a warning about his future in Major League Baseball, at least with the Yankees, and MLB insider Jon Morosi had some thoughts about that.

“If we’re in July and Volpe is still in the minor leagues and the Yankees are still winning games and there’s a player out there that they need, and I’m another team that doesn’t have a long-term shortstop, I would like to see how Volpe looks as a potential long-term shortstop somewhere else,” Morosi said on MLB Network, H/T Heavy. 

“Because if Caballero is the guy, for now and maybe even the next several months, potentially into next year, what about George Lombard Jr. coming along?”

As Morosi mentioned here, there are many factors that could eventually come into play. Not only is Jose Caballero playing very well right now, but Volpe also has to worry about youngster George Lombard Jr. coming up and eventually taking his job.

I don't think Volpe is going to play a whole lot in New York moving forward, though that isn't something I thought just a few days ago.

More MLB news:

• Cubs being mentioned as landing spot for Phillies flame-thrower who will probably be traded
• Dodgers and Yankees will need to keep watching NL team and hoping they lose to land award winner
• Who will be traded at MLB trade deadline?
• Phillies get reality check on Mike Trout trade due to one factor no one is talking about
• Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury
• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense

Highest-paid WNBA players in 2026: A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Mitchell headline list originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After a new CBA was struck this past offseason, WNBA contracts already look a whole lot different.

Plenty of players got new deals in the aftermath of the new CBA, which allowed for 2026 salary ranges from a minimum of $270,000 to $1.4 million as each team's cap skyrocketed to $7 million.

That led to the first group of million-dollar WNBA players — and there are now plenty of stars making seven figures.

Here's a look at the highest-paid players for the 2026 WNBA season.

SN's WNBA HQ: Live WNBA scores | Updated WNBA standings | Full WNBA schedule

Highest-paid WNBA players 2026

After a busy offseason, there are now three players tied as the highest-paid star in the WNBA.

Minnesota's Napheesa Collier, Indiana's Kelsey Mitchell and Las Vegas' A'ja Wilson are all set to make the maximum of $1.4 million in 2026.

All three players have proved critical for their respective franchise. Collier, a former DPOY and 5-time All-Star, finished second in MVP voting for the second-straight season in 2025; Mitchell had a career year last season in Caitlin Clark's absence, earning her second All-Star nod; and Wilson's unreal resume continued growing, bringing Las Vegas another title while winning her fourth MVP award.

Plenty more stars cleared the $1 million mark with the new CBA, however, from Brittney Griner to Breanna Stewart.

Here's a look at the full list of highest-paid players for 2026, per Spotrac:

Richest contracts in the WNBA

It wasn't just the 2026 salaries that grew after the new CBA this offseason. Some players also landed more lucrative deals than others, multi-year agreements that set new league records for total value.

The current title of "largest WNBA deal ever" wound up going to Indiana's Aliyah Boston, who inked a four-year, $6.3 million extension with the Fever at 24 years old. While she will earn $1 million in 2026, Boston's average annual value over the deal is $1.57 million.

Wilson also secured a significant contract at $5 million over three years. Her AAV of $1.67 million is the highest in the WNBA, exceeding Boston's. 

Here's a look at the largest total contract value across the WNBA heading into 2026:

MORE: Ranking every 2026 WNBA starting five 

Liverpool are now edging closer to a dream transfer.

The Reds' attack has become far too predictable.

For all the control and structure they have in possession, there is a glaring lack of players who can consistently beat defenders in one vs one situations.

In modern football, especially against deep defensive blocks, individual dribbling quality is often the difference between domination and stagnation. Right now, Liverpool simply do not have enough of that profile in the squad.

For years, Luis Diaz gave Liverpool chaos in the best possible way. He could receive the ball wide, isolate a full-back, and create danger without needing perfect patterns around him.

Even when the system struggled, Diaz could manufacture moments through aggression, acceleration, and unpredictability. That quality forced defenders to panic and opened space for everyone else. Liverpool are missing that badly now.

The only player in the squad who naturally looks like a genuine one vs one specialist is Rio Ngumoha, but expecting a teenager to carry that responsibility would be unrealistic.

The senior forwards are effective in different ways, but none consistently destabilise defences through pure dribbling ability.

That is why Liverpool’s dream signing should be a winger who thrives in isolation situations. Someone fearless, explosive, and capable of creating separation against set defences. Not just a runner in transition, but a player who can unlock games when opponents sit compactly around the box.

Liverpool’s attack needs unpredictability again. They need a forward who can turn structure into chaos, force defenders backwards, and restore the sense that something dangerous can happen every time they receive the ball wide.

And who better to sign in that position right now than Yan Diomande?

He is Liverpool's dream transfer right now. He's dad is a Liverpool fan. He's been excellent for RB Leipzig this season and he just brings that speed and one vs one ability that Liverpool are so desperately lacking right now.

On paper there's no one like Diomande on the market, who can play as comfortably on both flanks and be as effective as he is in both roles.

Liverpool are trying to wrap up his signature and RB Leipzig are reluctant to lose him, or at least they have been.

However, it looks like they are now accelerating a move to bring in his replacement which has Liverpool moving one step closer to getting their man.

According to Sportsbladet in Sweden, RB Leipzig are flying out to watch Zadok Yohanna in action for AIK this weekend as they look to accelerate a move for the Nigerian right-winger.

Yohanna has eight goal contributions in 11 games, and it's understood that Leipzig view him as their replacement for Diomande.

The report goes on to claim that Leipzig are not just there to watch him, the club's officials will also hold talks about signing the youngster.

Given the speed at which Leipzig are seemingly moving for Yohanna, it looks like they are now seriously preparing for life without Diomande and that can only mean one thing - Liverpool are edging closer and closer to getting their man.

According to journalist Alberto Pereiro, Real Madrid are finalising preparations for a grand farewell tribute to club captain Dani Carvajal during the final home match of the season against Athletic Club on 24 May.

The veteran right-back is set to leave the club upon the expiration of his contract this June, with no renewal being offered to the 34-year-old.

His departure stems from a difficult final campaign marred by persistent injuries and a significant reduction in playing time following the arrival of new defensive reinforcements in Trent Alexander-Arnold.

The Santiago Bernabeu says goodbye to a legend

A recent foot fracture has sidelined him, casting doubt on whether he can physically participate in the final league fixtures.

Regardless of his fitness, the Bernabeu tribute will celebrate a legendary career that began as a ten-year-old in the club’s academy.

An icon says goodbye. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Since his first-team debut in 2013, Carvajal has amassed over 430 appearances and won a joint-record 27 major trophies, including six Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns.

His legacy as one of the club’s greatest-ever defenders remains untouchable, even amidst a tense final few months for the squad defined by internal friction with manager Alvaro Arbeloa and some of his staff members.

The tribute on the final matchday against Athletic Club is expected to be a highly emotional affair, marking the departure of the last active member of the squad that secured the historic “La Decima” in 2014.

Fans attending the Santiago Bernabeu will have the opportunity to show their appreciation for a player who set an example for every young prospect coming through the Real Madrid youth academy.

As the summer transfer window approaches, FC Barcelona have emerged as one of several European heavyweights closely monitoring the situation of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, reports journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The 23-year-old French international has become a sought-after profile across the continent due to his explosive pace and technical ability on the left flank.

Barcelona, who are actively seeking a top-tier talent to bolster their attacking options for the 2026/27 campaign, have identified Barcola as a potential target alongside Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon.

Competition expected

However, as per the report, the Catalan giants face significant competition from the Premier League.

Arsenal have already gathered extensive information on Barcola and are monitoring his development closely. Liverpool are also credited with a strong interest, as they look to rejuvenate their wide attacking options this summer.

On Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)

Barcola’s future in Paris appears increasingly uncertain, with a move away from the Parc des Princes a distinct possibility during the upcoming window, as he has lost some prominence in the team.

Despite PSG’s desire to retain their brightest young talents, the lure of a leading role at another of Europe’s elite clubs may prove decisive.

For Barcelona, the pursuit of Barcola fits into their strategy of bolstering the frontline with more dynamism. The 23-year-old can play anywhere across the frontline and has contributed 12 goals and seven assists this season.

With Marcus Rashford expected to be released after his loan spell, the Blaugrana remain on the lookout for a left-winger, and the PSG ace has emerged as an option, along with the aforementioned Gordon.

While the club’s financial situation remains a factor in any high-profile pursuit, the opportunity to secure one of Europe’s most promising speedsters has placed them in the race for his signature.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.

Al-Nassr coach Jorge Jesus praised Cristiano Ronaldo for his hunger after the Portugal superstar scored his 100th goal in the Saudi Pro League and moved closer to his target of 1,000 career goals.

Al-Nassr beat Al-Shabab 4-2 on Thursday, with the 41-year-old converting a pass from former Bayern Munich and Liverpool player Sadio Mané to make it 3-1 with 15 minutes remaining.

The other three goals were scored by Portugal's Joao Felix.

It was Ronaldo's 26th league goal of the season and the 971st of his career.

"Ronaldo is always dangerous, we saw that today," Jesus told reporters.

His team lead the table by five points ahead of Al-Hilal, who have played one match fewer and are the next opponents for Ronaldo's side on Tuesday.

The former world footballer has been playing in Saudi Arabia since December 2022 and is still waiting for a major title there.

Cubs being mentioned as landing spot for Phillies flame-thrower who will probably be traded originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With the Philadelphia Phillies somewhat struggling to start the year, though playing better recently, some people are starting to believe that there could be some moves from Dave Dombrowski and the rest of the front office.

The Phillies will have to decide who they want to move on from, but right-handed closer Jhoan Duran is currently being viewed as a prime trade candidate. When searching for potential landing spots for the flamethrower closer, the Chicago Cubs continue to jump off the page.

“I don’t think any team in MLB has a bullpen more beat up than the Chicago Cubs. They have nine pitchers on the injured list, yet they’ve found a way to stay afloat. Now obviously getting healthy will be the most important thing for them. But in the interim, Duran can help patch their bullpen together,” Wynston Wilcox of FanSided wrote.

I'd be really interested to see what the Cubs look like in the 2026 campaign if they were healthy, though that isn't going to be the reality we see throughout the year. 

The Cubs have been among the most banged-up teams in baseball, as their pitching staff has just been absolutely derailed by all of these injuries. That's something that's going to need to change, and Duran can help with that.

However, I never expect Jed Hoyer to go out and make a blockbuster deal, so I want to see it before I believe it.

More MLB news:

• Dodgers and Yankees will need to keep watching NL team and hoping they lose to land award winner
• Who will be traded at MLB trade deadline?
• Phillies get reality check on Mike Trout trade due to one factor no one is talking about
• Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury
• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense
• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded

Crystal Palace "powered their way into their first ever European final" with a convincing two-leg victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, says BBC Radio 5 Live commentator Mark Scott.

At Selhurst Park on Thursday, the atmosphere reached fever pitch.

"The Palace fans were singing 'we're on our way to Leipzig' before kick-off and still belting it out at full-time," said Scott. "The supporters were revelling in the moment.

"It's quite the turnaround given the relationship between Oliver Glasner and the fans looked like it was on the rocks a few months ago, but now they sing his name loud again.

"Crystal Palace's final game of the season and Glasner's final game as Crystal Palace boss will be their first ever European final.

"Can he finish in an unbelievable flourish? "

Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

Dodgers and Yankees will need to keep watching NL team and hoping they lose to land award winner originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers will be watching closely over the next few months, hoping that multiple teams put themselves in a position to become sellers. 

If the Yankees and Dodgers have their choice of players, there will be some interesting names to watch, including right-hander Sandy Alcantara. There's reason to believe, due to some injuries, that both teams could be in the market for starting pitching. 

If that ends up being the case, it sounds like Alcantara could be one of the guys who eventually becomes available.

“If the Marlins are in the playoff hunt, they’ll probably hold onto him, but if they drop out, I expect them to trade him with only a year remaining of team control (club option) after this season,” Jim Bowden of The Athletic wrote.

The Miami Marlins, at least right now, haven't put themselves in a position to make the playoffs. 

That doesn't mean things can't change, considering we're only in the beginning of May, but it's something to watch out for and could lead to a potential bidding war between the two best teams in each league, perhaps changing the outcome of the World Series.

More MLB news:

• Who will be traded at MLB trade deadline?
• Phillies get reality check on Mike Trout trade due to one factor no one is talking about
• Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury
• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense
• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded
• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis

The Sunderland fans remember 13 May 2012, judging by the song they sang at Old Trafford during their 2-0 defeat by United in October.

"You thought it was yours, you thought it was yours, we heard you singing, then Sergio scored."

It is the kind of harmless banter commonplace at football grounds across the country and is bound to be given a few renditions on Saturday, for what is only United's sixth Premier League visit since that famous day.

What makes this trip stand out is that Michael Carrick was one of those to suffer, along with Jonny Evans, who is now part of his coaching team.

The pair are part of the video footage of the aftermath, both applauding the away support, Carrick in discussion with Ashley Young, trying to dissect what had happened.

Time heals of course. Carrick was part of the side that won at Sunderland the following year on the way to a historic 20th title.

But come Saturday, one suspects the gnawing memory would make winning there again just that little bit more satisfying.

"Obviously, it was a one-off kind of feeling," said Carrick. "It wasn't during the game, it wasn't until after.

"I didn't really know exactly where the land was lying at that point. It wasn't until we walked towards the edge of the pitch and had to deal with what was thrown out.

"It's in the past, but, yeah, it definitely sticks in the memory."

• Read about the Sunderland rivalry

• Cherki admits he was thinking more about his celebration than the goal itself vs Arsenal in April
• France international says he was “just enjoying the moment” in front of the Arsenal fans
• Playmaker’s stunning opener set City on their way to a 2-1 win that kept the title race alive

Rayan Cherki has revealed he was thinking more about his celebration than the goal itself as he curled home a stunning opener in Manchester City’s 2-1 Premier League win over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in April.

The 22-year-old’s effort – a swerving, instinctive finish that cut inside from the left and flew into the far corner – was widely regarded as one of the goals of the Premier League season and set City on their way to a victory that kept the title race alive heading into the final month of the campaign.

Speaking to Men in Blazer ahead of Saturday’s must-win game against Brentford, Cherki was characteristically unbothered when reflecting on a moment that had the Etihad Stadium on its feet, insisting it felt entirely routine in the moment.

“I don’t feel the pressure” – Rayan Cherki reacts to five-star performance in Manchester City win over Chelsea

Cherki: I was thinking about my celebration

Asked about the moment itself, Cherki’s answer was as disarming as the finish. “For me it was something normal,” the France international said.

“I was thinking more about my celebration than what I’d just done in the box. I was just enjoying the moment. Enjoying the celebration in front of the Arsenal fans.”

The response will surprise nobody who has followed Cherki’s debut season at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola has spoken at length about the playmaker’s natural confidence, describing the talent behind moments like the Arsenal goal as something “that cannot be taught, cannot be guided”.

Manchester City legend Sergio Agueroadded his own endorsement in recent weeks, insisting Cherki has made City “a much better team”, with his son among those already driving him “crazy” asking for his shirt.

The fact that Cherki’s first thought after one of the goals of the season was his celebration, rather than the technique or the occasion, says everything about the mentality that has made him such an instant hit in Manchester.

For a player who describes football as “like art, like music”, the moment was simply another brushstroke: to be enjoyed, savoured and then moved on from.

“I just want two things” – Rayan Cherki opens up on love for football ahead of Arsenal clash

What has Cherki’s season looked like at City?

Cherki’s goal against Arsenal was the defining image of his debut season in English football, but it was far from an isolated moment.

The former Lyon man arrived at the Etihad Stadium last summer for £34 million and has since accumulated 24 goal contributions in 47 appearances in all competitions, producing a series of performances that have made him one of the most talked-about players in the Premier League.

His two assists in the 3-0 win at Chelsea in early April were central to reigniting City’s title charge at its most uncertain moment, while his role in the 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final dismantling of Liverpool underlined the consistency of his contribution across multiple competitions.

talkSPORT presenter Adrian Durham has already declared Cherki the only credible contender for Footballer of the Year – regardless of who wins the Premier League title.

Guardiola’s only public note of caution has been a desire for more of those moments on a consistent basis, telling reporters he wants “five of those actions” per game rather than one.

It is the kind of demand that only gets made of players a manager truly believes can meet it. With an FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley and four Premier League games still to play, Cherki will have plenty more opportunities to answer that call before the season is out.

In the aftermath of the 2011 London riots, when groups of young men looted shops and set fire to cars and buildings around the capital, two aspiring football coaches were jolted into action by the sight of smoke billowing into the night sky.

Home secretary Theresa May called the offenders “thugs” and justice secretary Ken Clarke blamed a “feral underclass”. Much of the media rhetoric urged authorities to lock them up and throw away the key. But to James Fotheringham and Harry Hudson – who is now a familiar sight in the Chelsea dugout – the fires burning on their doorstep in Croydon were a community’s distress signal.

Hudson had studied sport’s role in social inclusion at university in Southampton, and when he returned to London that summer to witness the riots unfold, he and Fotheringham decided to set up their own outreach programme, putting on free coaching for young people who couldn’t afford to pay. The sessions were deliberately timed in the early evening during the most common hours for anti-social behaviour.

What started as a local scheme has grown into one of the most impactful sporting charities in the country. Approaching its 15th anniversary, Kinetic Academy now has 400 boys and girls enrolled across the city, aged 16-18, and each place at Kinetic comes with a spot at a local school to continue their studies. It is a unique blend of football academy, youth charity and education programme.

“It started at a time with a group of kids that were being labelled in the media as ‘bad kids’, but the truth was that they didn’t have the opportunity, the equipment, the facilities to express themselves,” says Fotheringham. “Smashing shops up and thefts and everything that was in the media, it just wasn’t the true narrative of the kids that were out on the street. But what it did do was point a lens at what we can do as a society to give these kids more of an opportunity.”

Among Kinetic’s first group of 23 young people, three signed contracts with professional football teams, a ludicrously high bar which the academy strives to reach each year. Scouts from around the country visit Kinetic’s talent showcases and see them play against club academies. So far, 83 Kinetic graduates have progressed into professional football, including Leicester midfielder Joe Aribo and Watford winger Kwadwo Baah.

The Independent visits on a day when Kinetic’s Tottenham team are playing a London Cup semi-final. Their slight right winger, 18-year-old Tito Somuyiwa, possesses bags of skill and pace. He joined Kinetic after being released by Watford at 15, having already experienced a painful rejection by Tottenham at 13.

“It was tough because it was the second time,” he says. “After I got released, my confidence was really low. I saw all the clubs [Kinetic] played against, so I thought that would be good to keep at the same level I was before, without actually being at a club. It’s literally the same [environment as a professional academy].

“When I played a lot of games, my confidence obviously got better. The coaches are always pushing you to try and develop your game, to work my hardest to reach my dream.”

Beyond the on-field talent, what has caught the eye among some football fans in recent months is just how many coaches progress into the professional ranks. Hudson, co-founder alongside Fotheringham, is now head coach of Chelsea Under-21s, and he is currently helping with the senior team after Chelsea sacked manager Liam Rosenior. Interim manager Calum McFarlane also coached at Kinetic, as did Chelsea’s Under-18s head coach Dan Hogan.

Their relationships with each other and Chelsea’s head of recruitment Joe Shields have sparked scrutiny on social media and accusations of nepotism, especially since some interim promotions. Perhaps it says something about Chelsea and the state of football more widely that who you know and who you trust counts for a lot – there are even more Brighton alumni at the club.

But the idea that the charity is somehow involved in a conspiracy to feed inexperienced coaches into Chelsea’s academy appears far-fetched. McFarlane already had a career in the professional game before a brief spell at Kinetic, which came about when he returned home from his job at Norwegian club Tromso due to a family health issue. Hudson had his own experience, from non-league to Wycombe, Crystal Palace and Brentford. Far more Kinetic coaches have not joined Chelsea, like Jake Littlejohn, who moved to Norwich City and the Bermuda national team, which sounds like the best gig of all.

That has not stopped a small but vociferous section of Chelsea fans hurling abuse at Kinetic online, with calls for the charity to shut down among the more polite messages.

Fotheringham thinks Kinetic didn’t so much help Hudson as hold him back from a professional career. “To be honest, I was the one probably stopping him and it meant that he didn’t go into that world sooner. We built something pretty cool at Kinetic that he wanted to stay a part of. But he always said to me he would never be able to lie on his deathbed and say, ‘I never gave it a shot’.

“I think the truth is that the hard yards that have gone into it through a variety of different experiences are what mould them as coaches and individuals to succeed. We’re super proud. I truly believe that they’re there on merit and hard work, and the truth is that they have put a lot of hours and been on some horrendous journeys to get to where they are now.”

The coaches who’ve risen to the professional game act as inspiration for Kinetic’s current crop of coaches, many of whom came through the academy as players. Adam Flemming is Kinetic’s head coach of the north London area, and he is managing Somuyiwa’s Tottenham team.

“My dream is to get all the badges and coach as high as possible,” Flemming says, in between little flurries of instruction and encouragement. “We have access to a very, very good calibre of player, first of all. And when we go and play against pro sides, we compete. There's nothing they do in a pro club that we don’t necessarily do ourselves, bar small bits like having a strength and conditioning coach. We’ve obviously got to prioritise education as well.”

And this points the foundation’s raison d’etre, to encourage social mobility by opening avenues to football and beyond. The majority of the young people who enrol are from marginalised ethnic backgrounds, and in the school holidays, Kinetic hosts coaching for children from low-income households. The foundation has links in the corporate world so students can earn mentoring and internships; a group recently visited Adidas headquarters for a workshop on entrepreneurship.

Because for all Kinetic’s success stories in football, the reality is that most don’t make it. Like a lot of talented footballers his age, Somuyiwa has come to the realisation that good fortune plays a part and a professional contract may never come. Through Kinetic’s partnership with Harris Academy schools, and his own hard work, Somuyiwa now has offers lined up at universities in Exeter and Leicester. “If it doesn’t work out, then I want to go into property and real estate,” he says.

This is ultimately the goal of the Kinetic Foundation, to send their young people into professional football, a job, training or higher education – they don’t really mind which, so long as their graduates have a brighter future when they leave than when they arrived.

This is the stage of the season where players are sometimes accused of being 'on the beach' after a poor performance, which is something no manager wants to hear said about his side.

But, being completely honest, a lack of motivation can be difficult to deal with if you are in charge of a team that find themselves in the middle of the table with, in their minds, nothing to play for.

Clubs generally pay players bonus money for staying up, yet I have been at places where reaching 40 points has guaranteed us safety and, having received the extra payments, results have dropped off afterwards.

It's never like that for a manager, though. The Premier League has always had positional prize money with a difference of several million between, say, eighth and 12th.

So the club itself is always motivated to finish as high as possible, even if you know that is going to be in mid-table. It could add a couple of million to your transfer budget for the following season but, even if you don't get to spend it yourself, you know it will pay a bill somewhere.

The players don't think like that though, and as a manager it is really tough to maintain that relentless focus you have demanded from the group for the previous nine months - but now without the cutting edge you only get from having a target to reach.

Giving them a financial incentive is probably the only way to solve the issue. Premier League players are paid enormous basic wages, but at times like this you'd prefer to cut that figure and replace it with winning, appearance and league-position bonuses that run right up to the last game of every season.

Getting your priorities right

Another bone of contention at the moment, especially for fans of teams who are desperate for other results to go their way, is seeing managers prioritise certain games over others.

By making seven changes for his side's Premier League game against Tottenham, Aston Villa boss Unai Emery was accused of focusing on his side's Europa League tie with Nottingham Forest, rather than selecting his strongest side against Spurs.

Whatever Emery was thinking, this kind of thing has always happened. Look at Manchester United and Tottenham last season, for example, when they were both focused on trying to win the Europa League and had nothing to play for domestically.

I definitely prioritised some games myself, for different reasons, with Stoke in our early Premier League years when I put our top-flight status ahead of cup games.

It certainly wasn't popular with a certain section of our crowd, but as the seasons went by in our journey to establish ourselves, the more confident I became in all-out risk taking when it came to my team selections.

One example was when we played Valencia in the Europa League knockout stages and I got heavily criticised for the team I selected in the away leg, having made a lot of changes from the home leg which we'd lost 1-0.

We lost 1-0 in Spain too and I hold my hands up to making a massive mistake there - I should have picked that team for the home game, because they certainly played a lot better!

In the past, Blackpool and Wolves were both fined by the Premier League for making multiple changes to their teams when Ian Holloway and Mick McCarthy were in charge, bringing in several squad players for games that affected other teams.

That rule has changed now though - since 2010 you have been able to pick any player in your nominated 25-man squad without reprisals.

So, Villa and Emery won't get any comeback from the Premier League this time - I am not sure that the same will apply to all the unhappy West Ham fans though!

Planning for next season already

This time of year is never quiet for a manager. Even if your team has nothing to play for right now, you already have to think about what happens next.

During the latter stages of every campaign, I would plan my next pre-season. That usually involved Austria, a fantastic country for the altitude work I wanted, and then two weeks on the east coast of the United States, where we would play two games in unbelievable humidity.

Of course, as you reach the end of a season you can reflect on your own performance as a manager, as well as the team's.

But, for me, that took just a weekend. I always thought the work you do over the summer months determines how the next season will go and, as we still see now, recruitment is almost everything.

I would not wait until the end of the season to start putting those plans in place and, right now, I would be working my socks off to ensure I got the best signings my club could afford.

Most of those deals would be agreed before the end of the season, whether outgoing or incoming, but they could still fall down so easily with all your competitors chasing the same players.

It's a process that never really stops, either. Come the end of pre-season, another list of players would enter the market, those whose demands were far in front of what they were worth, but had hung on for that golden egg!

Soon, with most clubs having done their transfer business, you knew those demands would decrease and become more reasonable.

I know of a manager who would allow his coaching staff to run pre-season and would not get back to work until a week before the season started. He called the transfer market up to that point the 'phoney war' - but for me it began in about April.

Delivering bad news was always difficult

At the end of every campaign, you know you also have the job of releasing players - young and old. Delivering the bad news was always difficult, but it was a situation I approached head on.

Please remember I worked lower down the leagues for many years and not always in the Premier League. Those lads have never been on the enormous wages I mentioned earlier and they can and do suffer from financial hardship, just as much as anyone else who is out of work.

For the young lads you are letting go, you know their aspirations take an enormous hit, while with the senior players who have families to provide for, you know they could end up on benefit payments if nothing comes up.

Whenever I released young players, I always wanted to do it face to face. It would take me back to my first days as an apprentice at Bristol Rovers, and the time when I got my first professional contract.

Don Megson was Rovers manager at the time and the club had just been promoted to what is now the Championship.

I've talked about how much I loved my life as an apprentice in previous columns and how different it was to what young players face now.

One thing that hasn't changed is how some teams have nothing to play for at this stage of the season. If, with a few games left, you could not get promoted or relegated then clubs would use the opportunity to play some younger players.

Rovers were brilliant at bringing youngsters through and used these games to blood many of their promising young talent - which at one time included me.

From a Sunday League semi-final to Molineux

When I'd just turned 18, although I was about to join the professional ranks, I'd still always go back to Wales and spend time with the lads I grew up with.

At this time, I had just started dating Deb, who is now my wife, so my nights out at the weekends were changing anyway.

My mum and dad were much happier if I was spending time with Deb, because it would be better for my career. I still managed to get out with the lads from time to time, though. This was one of those occasions.

One particular Easter, Rovers had played a home game on the Saturday and I wasn't involved. I travelled back to Wales and took Deb out for dinner but, on the way out, I met up with the gang from Pill, the area I was born in, in Newport.

After a few drinks they convinced me to play with them the next morning, in a semi-final of a Sunday League cup competition. I was told I was not breaking any rules because I wasn't a fully fledged professional. I was always desperate to play whenever I could anyway and as far as I knew that was the only game I'd play that weekend. I was wrong!

The next day, at the crack of dawn on a very wet Sunday morning, Deb drove me up the valleys to where the game was taking place, and we won on a pitch that I will always remember being full of puddles and on the side of a hill.

I went home because I had to catch a train back to Bristol. The distance from Temple Meads to Eastville Stadium was a good distance and on that particular day, myself and the other Welsh lads ran back because the first team were travelling to Wolves for an evening kick-off on the Easter Monday.

Our usual jobs were to clean boots and help pack the kit, but when I got there I was pulled in by the manager and told to get back to my digs to get a suit, because I was travelling with the team to Molineux.

It wasn't unusual for a young lad to travel with the senior squad, to help with the kit and gain some experience, but when we arrived at our hotel I was told I would be starting the game, alongside vastly experienced defender Stuart Taylor in the back four.

Molineux was packed that night and the atmosphere was incredible. It took an unbelievable strike from Steve Daley to beat us 1-0.

My preparation for the game was pretty unique with that game on the sloping pitch up in the valleys the previous morning, but I still did OK.

It taught me an important lesson about how unpredictable a life in football can be - and how unpredictable life is in general.

Tony Pulis was speaking to BBC Sport's Chris Bevan.

Who will be traded at MLB trade deadline? Yankees, Phillies players among top-five likeliest players traded during MLB’s trade deadline originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

We're still a few months away from Major League Baseball's trade deadline at the beginning of August, though there seem to be a few obvious names regarding potential trade candidates. 

There are some players who need to be moved because their teams aren't in a position to win anytime in the near future, and others because they don't make much sense on their current roster.

Below, I'm looking at the five most likely players to be traded at the Major League Baseball trade deadline.

Joe Ryan

To start things off, there isn't a player in the game who I'd be less surprised to see traded than Joe Ryan. 

Ryan, who has dealt with an injury to start the year, has been rather decent when he's on the mound. He's posted a 3.72 ERA, so I'm interested to see what he looks like after this elbow scare.

If the Minnesota Twins are any bit serious about changing the future of this organization, it's going to start on the prospect side of things. They absolutely have to move on from Ryan.

Sandy Alcantara

This is one of the more interesting situations around Major League Baseball at the moment, as Sandy Alcantara has been very good. When Alcantara is at his best, there's a big argument to be made that he's one of the top starters in Major League Baseball.

However, the Marlins are in one of those strange positions where they could look to move on from guys while also trying to win. The reason for thinking Alcantara is going to be traded is that he's 30 years old, and he doesn't necessarily fit the timeline of what Miami has.

Jarren Duran

Jarren Duran is one of the more interesting players in Major League Baseball, and as a whole, he's definitely decent. The problem with Duran and the Boston Red Sox is the fact that he's in a crowded outfield. 

Duran still plays nearly every single day, currently with the fourth-most at-bats on the Red Sox roster, but he just feels like a guy who is going to be traded. At 29 years old and having multiple years of service time, not hitting free agency until 2029, there's really no reason for the Red Sox to hold on to him. It also doesn't help that he's hitting .190 with a .581 OPS.

Alec Bohm

I feel like Bohm is one of those classic guys who probably just needs a new change of scenery. Like some other teams in Major League Baseball, I expect the Philadelphia Phillies to buy and sell some.

The Phillies have played very well over the past week or so, putting them back in a position where they can probably contend for a playoff spot if everything goes well throughout the year. 

Bohm, however, hasn't been too big of a help with that. Phillies fans have been calling for him to be traded for a while now, and it would just make sense if it happens, as he's currently hitting .159 with one home run in 126 at-bats.

Jasson Dominguez

This injury could change things for the New York Yankees, and I'm a bit worried about that. However, Jasson Dominguez just isn't what the Yankees were expecting him to be, and at some point, they need to recognize that. 

If Spencer Jones comes up and can find a way to limit his strikeouts, I just don't see a realistic path to Dominguez being on this roster long-term.

More MLB news:

• Phillies get reality check on Mike Trout trade due to one factor no one is talking about
• Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury
• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense
• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded
• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis
• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened

A takeover of Exeter Chiefs by the owners of Premier League AFC Bournemouth has been approved by the Prem rugby club.

Members and shareholders voted in favour of a bid by Cannae Holdings' Black Knight Sports and Entertainment at a special general meeting on Thursday night.

If the takeover goes through, the American investors will purchase all shares in the Devon club.

Black Knight is currently carrying out a due diligence process which will not be completed before the end of May.

The group also have stakes in French club FC Lorient as well as owning Auckland FC.

"This does not represent a firm offer," Exeter chairman and chief executive Tony Rowe said in a statement.

"It is just a non-binding expression of interest at this stage but, hopefully, an offer will follow and we can begin negotiating the terms of the sale."

• New investment could boost Exeter squad - Baxter
• Bournemouth owners close to Exeter Chiefs takeover
• Rowe targets new investment as Exeter post £10.3m loss

Should the deal be completed, it would be the first time foreign football owners have invested in an English top-flight rugby team.

They are the latest new investors in the domestic game after Newcastle were bought up by energy drink giant Red Bull in August, while billionaire industrialist Sir James Dyson became co-owner of Bath in March after sinking significant new capital into the champions.

It is the second lot of American investment in the sport in as many days after Exeter's South West neighbours Cornish Pirates - who play in the second-tier Champ - announced new funding from the United States.

It comes as the Prem does away with promotion and relegation in favour of a franchise-type model with the league aiming to expand back to 12 teams.

A completed takeover would end Rowe's decades-long stint at the helm of the two-time Premiership and 2020 European champions.

Under his guidance, the Chiefs have progressed from the fourth tier of English club rugby to the top flight and moved to their current Sandy Park home in 2006.

The stadium has since undergone a number of developments with plans to expand it to a capacity beyond 20,000 also in the pipeline.

Rowe, who made his fortune in telecommunications, sponsored much of the club's rise and development as he incorporated conferencing and events into the club's business portfolio at Sandy Park.

The club reached six consecutive Premiership finals from 2016 as well as winning a maiden European crown as the club attracted internationals such as Geoff Parling and Nic White to a side that also had homegrown stars including Jack Nowell, Luke Cowan-Dickie and Henry Slade.

But since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Exeter have struggled financially. Rowe bought a hotel on the Sandy Park site in December 2022 to help pay off some of the Chiefs' pandemic-related debts while the club saw much of their international talent leave between 2022 and 2024 as they cut the wage bill.

Last season the club finished ninth in the 10-team Prem, but after a number of coaching changes and investment in players such as Len Ikitau, Tom Hooper, Andrea Zambonin and Stephen Varney, are challenging for a play-off place this season.

Exeter members and fans will hope the new investment can help re-establish the club as one of English rugby's major domestic forces.

What channel is Padres vs. Cardinals on? Time, TV schedule, live stream to watch MLB Friday Night Baseball game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Two teams off to strong starts continue their four-game weekend series as the San Diego Padres host the St. Louis Cardinals on Friday. 

While it's no surprise to see the Padres jostling with the Dodgers atop the NL West, the Cardinals are in the midst of a bounceback season on the heels of a fourth-place finish in 2025. 

Jordan Walker (.956 OPS, 10 home runs) has led the St. Louis offense so far, and Friday's starter Michael McGreevy leads the pitching staff. The 25-year-old right-hander got the win with six shutout innings against the Dodgers last time out and will look to keep rolling against a solid San Diego lineup led by Xander Bogaerts. 

The Padres seem to have rebounded after losing back-to-back home series to the Cubs and White Sox. They will send Griffin Canning to the hill Friday in his second start since he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear last June with the Mets. The veteran had an impressive debut last time out against the White Sox, striking out seven and allowing three hits and a run in five innings. 

Who will prevail Friday as two postseason hopefuls clash at Petco Park? Here's when and where to tune in and watch all the action. 

What channel is Padres vs. Cardinals on today?

• TV channel: None
• Live stream: Apple TV

Padres vs. Cardinals will not air on traditional television Friday. The game will stream live as part of Apple TV's "Friday Night Baseball" package. 

New subscribers get their first week of Apple TV for free. After that, they can subscribe for just $12.99/month. 

Subscribers can watch "Friday Night Baseball" with the Apple TV app, which is available on select smart TVs, Roku devices, Amazon Fire TV, and gaming consoles. 

Padres vs. Cardinals start time

• Date: Friday, May 8
• Time: 9:45 p.m. ET | 8:45 p.m. CT | 6:45 p.m. PT

First pitch of Padres vs. Cardinals on Friday is set for 9:45 p.m. ET. The game will be played at Petco Park in San Diego.

Apple TV 'Friday Night Baseball' schedule 2026

Apple and MLB have announced the "Friday Night Baseball" schedule through the end of June. See every upcoming game below. 

Related Links

• Latest MLB news and rumors
• 2026 MLB schedule and scores
• MLB standings 2026

UFC White House card details: What to know about Freedom 250 fight date, time, tickets and more originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

An unprecedented UFC event is set to be held in June. 

After months of planning, UFC's Freedom 250 event will be held on the South Lawn of the White House, bringing a unique spectacle to the U.S. capital in honor of the country's 250th anniversary in 2026.

First announced in July 2025, plenty of planning from President Donald Trump, UFC CEO Dana White and others has culminated in an event that is expected to have a smaller crowd for security purposes, but will have a headliner lightweight fight between undisputed champion Ilia Topuria and interim champion Justin Gaethje.

Here's everything to know about the UFC event at the White House.

MORE: What to know about UFC betting guidelines, tips, tricks and more

When is UFC White House?

The UFC's event at the White House is scheduled for June 14, 2026. 

While initial reports indicated the event was being targeted for July 4, logistical reasons later moved it up to June 14, when UFC fighters will go head-to-head on the White House's South Lawn.

What time will UFC White House start?

UFC Freedom 250 is scheduled for an 8 p.m. ET start on June 14.

Prelims are scheduled for 4 p.m. ET, while the main card will begin at 8 p.m. ET, according to UFC.

UFC White House card

Here's a full look at the scheduled fights for UFC Freedom 250.

Lightweight title bout: Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje

• Favorite (per UFC): Topuria (-800)

The headliner at the White House will be a lightweight title matchup between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje.

Topuria remains unbeaten, a perfect 17-0-0, and is aiming to defend the lightweight belt after defeating Charles Oliveira in the summer of 2025 for the vacant 155-pound title. Gaethje is 27-5-0, and earned his title shot after defeating Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title. The American is 0-for-2 in previous shots at the undisputed 155-pound crown, losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira. 

Heavyweight interim title bout: Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane

• Favorite (per UFC): Even

In a matchup that carries even odds, per UFC, Brazil's Alex Pereira is set to take on France's Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight interim title.

Pereira has gone 13-3-0 in his career and is moving up to his third weight class in the UFC. He previously held the UFC middleweight and light heavyweight belts, recently vacating the 205 division. Gane is 13-2-0 (1 NC), with those two losses previously coming in title fights. The former interim heavyweight champion lost to Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones for the undisputed title, but has a chance to achieve interim status again. 

The winner of the heavyweight interim title fight is expected to face Tom Aspinall, the current undisputed champion. Aspinall drew a no-contest against Gane in October of 2025 due to eye pokes from the Frenchman. 

Bantamweight bout: Sean O'Malley vs. Aiemann Zahabi

• Favorite (per UFC): O'Malley (-360)

In the event's bantamweight bout, Sean O'Malley will take on Canada's Aiemann Zahabi.

O'Malley owns a 19-3 (1 NC) career record and is a former bantamweight title holder. The American striker is coming off a win over Song Yadong in January. Zahabi stands at 14-2-0, riding a seven-fight win streak. 

Heavyweight bout: Josh Hokit vs. Derrick Lewis

• Favorite (per UFC): Hokit (-310)

In a heavyweight bout, the 6-1 and 234-pound Josh Hokit will face the 6-3 and 263-pound Derrick Lewis.

Hokit will be coming in unbeaten at 9-0-0, fresh off his biggest win yet against former heavyweight title challenger Curtis Blaydes. Lewis is the UFC's all-time knockout king with 16 KOs to his name. In total, he holds a record of 29-13-0 (1 NC). 

Lightweight bout: Mauricio Ruffy vs. Michael Chandler

• Favorite (per UFC): Ruffy (-600)

For a lightweight bout, Brazilian star Mauricio Ruffy will take on Michael Chandler.

Ruffy enters at 13-2-0, while Chanlder is 23-10-0.

Middleweight bout: Bo Nickal vs. Kyle Daukaus

• Favorite (per UFC): Nickal (-300)

Bo Nickal, the owner of an 8-1-0 record, will take on Kyle Daukaus, who has gone 17-4-0 (1 NC) in his career.

The two will meet in a middleweight bout, with Nickal standing at 6-1 and Daukaus at 6-3.

Featherweight bout: Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia

• Favorite (per UFC): Lopes (-185)

One of seven scheduled fights at the White House will be a featherweight matchup between Diego Lopes and Steve Garcia.

Lopes, who is from Brazil, carries a 27-8-0 career record and stands at 5-11, while Garcia has gone 19-5-0 and stands at 6-foot.

UFC Freedom 250 ticket prices 

Ticketing for UFC Freedom 250 won't look like a typical event. There will be no general admission for the White House fights on the South Lawn, which are expected to be virtually invite-only, but there are ways created to watch from a nearby area for free.

White said in September 2025 that the seating capacity at UFC Freedom 250 would be limited due to security concerns, despite Trump previously estimating between 20,000 to 25,000 attendees. In February 2026, TKO Group Holdings CEO Ari Emanuel then said that there would be around 3,000 to 4,000 people in attendance.

In May, White said that the capacity for UFC Freedom 250 is expected to be 4,300 and "most of them will be military" invitees. The BBC also reported on May 7 that the remaining tickets to watch at the White House will be made up by "high rollers" who will have to pay around $1.5 million to watch the show as part of a luxury package.

However, White also shared details about plans to allow fans to watch for free from large screens at a nearby park to the White House, the Ellipse. White said that UFC will be giving away 85,000 tickets to watch at the Ellipse and people will have to register for the tickets. According to the UFC and Ticketmaster website, the window to request tickets lasted from Apr. 21-26.

"There's a park that's right there," White said, per ESPN. "We're gonna be ticketing 85,000 people in the Ellipse and the tickets are free. We'll announce how we're gonna be giving them away soon, but you should plan on going to Washington, D.C., for this event."

Additionally, the Ellipse is expected to host a "fan fest" the day before the event, which will be headlined by the Zac Brown Band and will feature the ceremonial weigh-ins, meet and greets, on-stage entertainment, interactive experiences, and appearances from UFC athletes and other celebrities

The UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest on Saturday, June 13. Then, on Sunday, the Ellipse will include a live watch party of the fights being held on the South Lawn of the White House nearby.

How to watch UFC Freedom 250

UFC Freedom 250 is set to stream on Paramount+ on June 14.

Full details haven't been announced, but in a February 2026 interview, TKO Group Holdings CEO Ari Emanuel also said the event would be simulcast on CBS and Paramount+, per ESPN.

Why is there a UFC fight at the White House?

The UFC fight at the White House is part of the America 250 celebrations from President Donald Trump.

In honor of the United States' 250th birthday this summer, Trump announced in July 2025 that the UFC would hold an event on the White House grounds. 

When is Donald Trump's birthday?

It's not just the America 250 celebrations that UFC Freedom 250 coincides with. 

The event is also being held on Trump's 80th birthday: June 14, 2026. That date also marks the Flag Day holiday in the United States.

How Caitlin Clark effect resulted in 39 WNBA games being played at NBA stadiums originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Caitlin Clark effect has been on full display since her time in college. NCAA arenas sold out when Clark came to town, with ticket prices spiking. 

If you thought that would change in the WNBA, think again. This year, the Indiana Fever are playing almost their entire slate at NBA or NHL arenas. Some teams already share arenas, but others are reworking their stadium plans solely for the games when Clark and the Fever arrive.

This reflects the broader trend of WNBA interest, with the league gaining enough traction to implement a new CBA in the offseason, which drastically boosts player salaries. 

Here's what to know about the Indiana Fever's schedule in 2026 and all of the famous arenas where they will play.

MORE: Sporting News predicts 2026 WNBA MVP, ROY, Finals

How many WNBA games are being played in NBA stadiums? 

The Indiana Fever will be playing 39 of their 44 total games at NBA arenas. The primary exceptions within those five games are either due to construction or cities without an NBA franchise. These include the Connecticut Sun and Las Vegas Aces, who don't have a local NBA team, and the Washington Mystics, where Capital One Arena is being renovated at the time of the game. 

The Fever are joined by four more franchises who share a stadium exclusively with an NBA team. Others are accommodating to the Fever by playing one or more of their matchups at another team's arena. This varies between arenas used for the NBA, NHL or both. 

MORE: Where does Caitlin Clark rank among top 30 WNBA players?

WNBA games at NBA stadiums

Several teams already shared an arena with the NBA team from the same city and this rings true once again in 2026. The Seattle Storm also share an arena, but with an NHL team, the Seattle Kraken. Below are the WNBA teams that share stadiums.

Additionally, there are a handful of teams who have switched to WNBA stadiums when Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are in town. 

MORE: Tracking every WNBA roster cut ahead of 2026 season

Promotion hopefuls Paderborn entertain midtable side Karlsruhe in what could potentially be their last home game of the season. Ralf Kettemann’s men could finish in third place when the league campaign concludes next week, which will add a playoff tie against Bundesliga’s 16th-placed team.

Paderborn still have a solid chance for promotion despite only picking up a single point from their last three games against the current top three teams. A 1-1 draw with Hannover followed by a narrow defeat to ten-man Schalke at the end of April.

And last week’s 5-1 reverse in Elversberg was a huge blow to their promotion hopes as they have looked a totally different side to the one that broke the club’s record for successive wins at one point of the season.

However, fourth-placed Paderborn are still only a point behind Elversberg with two rounds left to play. Meanwhile, Karlsruhe secured their safety with a 2-1 home win over Darmstadt on matchday 32.

Karlsruhe held Paderborn goalless until the last 25 minutes of the reverse fixture, but the final score was 4-0 to the visitors with Laurin Curda scoring the first two goals. Paderborn will be without Steffen Tigges on Friday as the experienced striker was sent off in injury-time against Elversberg.

Predicted Lineups

Paderborn: Seimen; Scheller, Götze ©, Brackelmann; Curda, Baur, Castaneda, Sticker; Müller, Marino, Bilbija

Karlsruhe: Bernat; Rapp, Franke, Kobald; Jung, Herold; Förster, Müller, Wanitzek ©; Ben Farhat, Fukuda

Phillies get reality check on Mike Trout trade due to one factor no one is talking about originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For some odd reason, many are now starting to suggest that the Los Angeles Angels could move on from Mike Trout. 

Trout, by far the greatest player in Angels history, will go down as one of the greatest players to ever step foot on the diamond. He's done nothing throughout his career but perform at a ridiculous level, and it almost upsets me that people say he's turning back the clock. Remember now, this is Mike Trout we're talking about. This guy is a first-ballot Hall of Famer and should get 100% of the votes.

However, the talk is still there surrounding Trout, and there seems to at least be some sort of question about what his future in Los Angeles looks like. 

According to the latest from Robert Murray, there's more to it than the Angels just trading Trout. In fact, he has a full no-trade clause that isn't being talked about enough.

“I’m incredibly skeptical that Trout will be on the move. He’s had numerous opportunities to approach the Angels in years past to say he wants out of Anaheim and has yet to do so; he’s incredibly loyal. He also has a full no-trade clause, and his contract, which pays him $37.1 million per season through 2030, remains a huge obstacle,” Murray of FanSided wrote.

Perhaps Trout goes to the Angels and says that he's willing to waive that no-trade clause for the right team. I have no idea what he's thinking, just as nobody does besides himself. 

However, as Murray touched on, it would be a bit surprising to see him do so at this stage of his career, considering he's got no reason to.

More MLB news:

• Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury
• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense
• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded
• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis
• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened
• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible

Dodgers need to trade for this veteran after another Tyler Glasnow injury originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite being the best team in Major League Baseball, still have needs. We can look at the Dodgers' roster and see one of the greatest teams ever assembled, but that doesn't mean there aren't flaws on the roster, just like everywhere else. 

The Dodgers have to do a better job of staying healthy on the mound, though that seems almost impossible at times with guys like Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow at the top of that rotation. 

Glasnow was injured again on Wednesday, a concerning sign for a Dodgers organization looking to go back-to-back-to-back.

Putting two and two together, there could be some decent arms out there for the Dodgers to go after who might not cost them too much. 

According to Robert Murray of FanSided, one of those guys could be Michael Wacha. He didn't connect the Dodgers to the veteran right-hander, but I think it makes a lot of sense for the Dodgers to go after a starter of his caliber.

“Wacha’s teammate, Kris Bubic, will get most of the headlines because he’s on an expiring contract. But Wacha will also draw plenty of interest if the Kansas City Royals are out of contention at the deadline.

“Wacha, 34, is signed through 2027 on a three-year, $51 million contract. He’s not the flashiest pitcher, but he’s dependable, and he's posted four consecutive seasons with an ERA in the 3s. This year is no different, with the right-hander recording a 3.05 ERA in seven starts. His numbers, and his controllability, should make him highly sought after in July and August,” Murray wrote.

The only thing that could hurt the Dodgers in a situation like this is whether they want to go out and add a player who isn't necessarily an ace and has another year on his deal after this.

However, if they're willing to do so, it's a move that just makes too much sense.

More MLB news:

• Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense
• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded
• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis
• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened
• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible
• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster

Mets have no choice but to move on from former Yankees All-Star in move that makes too much sense originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A lot of the chatter about the New York Mets has been centered around how poorly they’ve played throughout the year, and it's almost tough to argue with in a sense. The Mets are 14-23, already 11.5 games back in the National League East, and have been by far the most disappointing team in the game.

Still, there's reason to believe that this season can work out for the Mets in the sense of doing what's right throughout the remainder of the campaign. This is probably a lost season for New York, barring something drastic happening, but that doesn't mean it shouldn't go out and move on from some of its top players if it can get a decent return.

The Mets are definitely in a position right now to be sellers, and according to the latest from an MLB insider, somebody like Clay Holmes could be available.

“When Clay Holmes was a free agent during the 2024 offseason, he was highly sought after as both a starting pitcher and reliever. And it wouldn’t be surprising if that was once again the case at the deadline.

“To be clear: The Mets have not decided they are going to sell. They want to give this season as much time to play out as possible, and to finally have Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto healthy together. But if they are out of postseason contention come July, Holmes and his 1.69 ERA over seven starts would be an incredibly intriguing option. He’s signed to a two-year, $26 million contract with a 2027 player option, which seems likely to be declined,” Robert Murray of FanSided wrote.

As Murray touched on, however, the Mets have yet to decide what they're going to do at the trade deadline. 

We're still a few months away from the beginning of August, so there's a real possibility that things will change. 

They haven't shown they have the ability to win games at a high level just yet, but baseball is a weird game.

More MLB news:

• Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded
• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis
• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened
• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible
• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster
• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury

Giants get expected return update for starter who will definitely be traded originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Unfortunately, the San Francisco Giants' season just hasn't gone as planned, and skipper Tony Vitello could be part of the blame. Vitello and the Giants are now 14-23 on the year, losers of eight of their last 10.

It would be rather interesting for the Giants not to move on from a few pieces at the trade deadline if things continue at this rate. 

They certainly know that if they want to be the team they need to be in the future, it'll probably require having a much better farm system than they currently have.

According to MLB insider Robert Murray, it sounds like there's a real possibility that left-hander Robbie Ray could be on the move.

“The first year of Tony Vitello’s tenure with the Giants has gotten off to a brutal start, and unless something changes, they look like obvious sellers at the deadline. And Ray feels like a legitimate candidate to head elsewhere.

“Ray, 34, is on an expiring contract and remains one of the best left-handed arms in baseball, posting a 2.95 ERA across his first seven starts. He’s in his 13th season in the Majors and won a Cy Young in 2021 with the Toronto Blue Jays. While he’s no longer at that dominant level of pitcher, he’s still highly effective and should draw widespread interest from contending teams in need of pitching,” Murray of FanSided wrote.

Ray is one of those guys who will likely get a much better return at the deadline than he should. Teams are typically willing to overpay for starting pitching, and if he gets moved, he'll definitely be one of the better players available.

The Giants, at this rate, need to start moving on from guys, no matter if the front office thinks that's the right or wrong decision. This obviously isn't working, and something has to change.

More MLB news:

• Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis
• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened
• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible
• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster
• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury
• Tarik Skubal injury to play a factor on Mets ahead of MLB trade deadline

The Champions of Italy are ready to take to the pitch once again: Inter will face Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico on Saturday 9 May at 18:00 CEST, on Matchday 36 of Serie A. The clash against the Biancocelesti will serve as a dress rehearsal for the Coppa Italia final, which is also set to take place at the Olimpico against Lazio on Wednesday 13 May.

The reverse fixture at San Siro was played in November, just before the international break. On that occasion, Cristian Chivu’s side secured a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Lautaro and Bonny.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

There have been 165 meetings in Serie A between Inter and Lazio: the Nerazzurri lead the overall record with 70 wins to Lazio’s 39, as well as 56 draws. Inter have scored in 13 consecutive Serie A matches against Lazio, averaging exactly two goals per game across that run (26 total), their longest-ever scoring streak against the Biancocelesti in the competition.

Inter have also won each of their last two away matches against Lazio in Serie A, with an aggregate score of 8-0 (0-2 in 2023/24 and 0-6 in 2024/25).

THE NUMBERS BEHIND THE CHAMPIONS

Inter, currently on 82 points, have already surpassed last season’s Serie A tally by one point. After 35 matches, only three Nerazzurri sides have done better at this stage: 90 points in 2006/07, 85 in 2020/21 and 89 in 2023/24.

Inter have scored 82 league goals this season — fewer only than Barcelona (89) and Bayern Munich (116) across Europe’s top five leagues in 2025/26. Chivu’s side also lead Serie A for goal difference (51), total shots (608), shots on target (213), expected goals (66.4), conversion rate (13.5%) and touches in the opposition box (1196).

It is not only about attack either: Inter have recorded 17 clean sheets in Serie A this season, a figure no side has bettered across Europe’s top five leagues (level with Como and Arsenal).

ASSIST KING

As we know, Federico Dimarco has provided 18 assists in Serie A this season. Across Europe’s top five leagues, only Bruno Fernandes and Michael Olise (both on 19) have managed more. Dimarco has created more big chances than any other player in Europe’s major leagues this season (33). The Nerazzurri wing-back also tops several Serie A statistical rankings in 2025/26, with 23 goal involvements, 93 chances created and 48 successful crosses from open play.

THURAM’S GOLDEN FORM

Marcus Thuram, recently named Serie A Player of the Month for April, is enjoying a superb run of form. Since the beginning of April, Tikus has scored six goals and provided two assists in Serie A. With eight goal involvements, he has been the most productive player across Europe’s top five leagues during that period, contributing to a goal every 49 minutes. The French striker has scored 13 league goals this season and is now just one away from matching his personal best of 14, set last campaign.

DUMFRIES VS LAZIO

Denzel Dumfries has scored three Serie A goals against Lazio, making the Biancocelesti his favourite opponents in the Italian top flight.

THE OPPOSITION: LAZIO

Currently eighth in the table on 51 points, Maurizio Sarri’s Lazio are enjoying their best spell of the season after overcoming a difficult start to the campaign. The Biancocelesti have lost only one of their last eight league matches, collecting five wins and two draws for a total of 17 points. Over the same period, only Juventus, with 18, have earned more, while Napoli have also picked up 17.

More specifically, Lazio have not lost since 13 April, when they were beaten 1-0 at the Olimpico by Fiorentina. Before that defeat, Sarri’s side had overcome Sassuolo, AC Milan and Bologna, before drawing 1-1 against Parma. In the last three matchdays, Lazio secured an impressive 2-0 away win over Napoli, followed by a 3-3 draw with Udinese and a victory away to Cremonese. During the same period, the Biancocelesti also defeated Atalanta in the Coppa Italia semi-finals to book a place in the final against Inter, scheduled for Wednesday 13 May at the Olimpico — just four days after this league encounter.

Sarri has managed to find the right balance for a side that has faced several challenges throughout the season, all while remaining faithful to his trademark 4-3-3 system. Lazio’s attacking play relies heavily on the quality of their wide forwards, who are also the club’s leading scorers in Serie A. Danish winger Gustav Isaksen leads the charts with five goals, followed by Tijjani Noslin, Pedro Rodríguez and Matteo Cancellieri on four each. Lazio have scored 39 league goals this season, shared across 14 different scorers.

DISCIPLINARY SITUATION

SUSPENDEDLazio: none Inter: none

ONE BOOKING AWAY FROM SUSPENSION Lazio: Pedro, Taylor, Tavares Inter: Akanji

MATCH OFFICIALS

The referee for Lazio vs Inter, valid for Matchday 36 of the 2025/26 Serie A season, will be Rosario Abisso from Palermo.

Referee: Abisso Assistants: Fontani – Biffi Fourthofficial: Sacchi VAR: Meraviglia AVAR: Massa

WHERE TO WATCH LAZIO vs INTER

Lazio vs Inter, Matchday 36 of the 2025/26 Serie A season, will be played on Saturday 9 May at 18:00 CEST and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN. The match will be available through the DAZN app on smart TVs and via streaming on PCs, smartphones and tablets.

UPDATES ON INTER TV

As always, Inter TV will provide pre-match coverage and live updates from the Stadio Olimpico ahead of kick-off. The pre-match Livematch show for Lazio vs Inter will begin at 16:45 CEST and will also be available on YouTube through the Club’s official channel until 17:50. Post-match coverage will include analysis, interviews and all the reaction from Rome.

While all eyes are on Barcelona’s upcoming El Clasico against Real Madrid this weekend, the club are hard at work trying to close out the futures of a couple of key individuals in Robert Lewandowski and Hansi Flick.

While Lewandowski’s future has dominated the headlines, this week could prove equally important as far as Flick’s future is concerned.

Barcelona’s plan with Flick renewal

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s plan is to officially announce Flick’s contract renewal only once the team wins La Liga. This is a condition deemed essential by the German coach himself.

That means the announcement would not come before next Tuesday at the earliest.

If Barcelona secure the title on Sunday, the players and staff are scheduled to hold a parade through the city on Monday to celebrate the league title with fans, just as they did last season after winning the domestic treble.

Barcelona want to secure the future of Hansi Flick until 2029. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Agent Pini Zahavi, who represents both Flick and Robert Lewandowski, arrived in Barcelona last Wednesday and began a round of contacts on Thursday to finalise the renewal.

Early that morning, president-elect Joan Laporta visited Zahavi at his hotel on Passeig de Gracia and met with him for over three hours.

The meeting focused on finalising the details of a new contract that will keep Flick at Barcelona until June 2028, with his current deal expiring in June 2027.

The extension also includes an optional additional year, activatable by mutual agreement, subject to certain conditions.

The basis of the agreement was reached between both parties weeks ago. What remains now is putting the final details on paper.

Zahavi is also set to meet Barcelona sporting director Deco, who was in Brazil on personal business but is expected to return before El Clasico, to wrap up the remaining formalities before the deal is officially signed.

Real Madrid’s internal stability has reached a new low following a week defined by physical altercations and a breakdown in squad discipline.

As the club struggles to manage a violent physical altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni, the focus has shifted to the dwindling authority of manager Álvaro Arbeloa.

The atmosphere at the Valdebebas training ground is at its most fractured point in years. While the club’s board is already frustrated by the manager’s recent passivity during player disputes, new reports indicate that Arbeloa has lost the support of almost the entire dressing room.

Only four players stand with Arbeloa

Indeed, according to L’Equipe (h/t Madrid Zone), currently, only four first-team players are said to still back Arbeloa: Vinicius Jr., Jude Bellingham, Valverde, and Fran Garcia.

The fact that the vast majority of the squad, including several veteran leaders, has distanced itself from Arbeloa highlights the severity of the crisis.

As has already been reported, as many as six players are not even on speaking terms with the former defender-turned-manager.

Arbeloa has lost support from most of the dressing room. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Arbeloa has had dressing room conflicts with club captain Dani Carvajal, as well as several other stars such as Dani Ceballos, Raul Asencio, and Alvaro Carreras.

This isolation was even more evident during yesterday’s training session, where Valverde was allowed to verbally berate Tchouameni without any intervention from the coaching staff, eventually leading to the dressing room fight.

With President Florentino Perez already forced to step in to mediate player conflicts and handle disciplinary measures, the lack of a unified front between the manager and his players has left the club in a precarious position.

The internal divide has only served to strengthen the belief that Arbeloa’s tenure is nearing its end, even as the team prepares for the high-pressure environment of Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona.

Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic has said reaching the Championship play-offs "feels like winning the league".

The Tigers, who face Millwall in the first leg of their semi-final on Friday, spent the majority of the season in the top six but a run of six games without a win meant they went into the final match behind sixth-placed Wrexham on goal difference.

Jakirovic's men came from a goal down to beat Norwich, while the Red Dragons could only draw with Middlesbrough.

"I feel excellent, this is a big achievement for us. I feel like we won the league," he told BBC Radio Humberside.

"It's been a long season and very interesting and, like I said, everything was decided in the last round."

He added: "I didn't sleep good because of all the emotions but in the morning [after] I felt good. It's a big success for us of course."

The former Bosnia and Herzegovina international took over in the summer after Ruben Selles was sacked last May as they avoided relegation to League One on goal difference.

This is Jakirovic's first season managing in England after spells in Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Turkey.

He said that his side's experience from their must-win game with the Canaries on Saturday would stand them in good stead for the play-offs.

"It will be much easier for us to play this because you have two games, so if you are not so good in the first game you can fix some problems but in the last round you don't have time and you must win the game and still you don't know if you are in the play-offs. That was huge pressure," he said.

"We showed great mentality, especially when we were 1-0 down and it was a crucial moment when we equalised immediately."

• A chance for Millwall's class of 2026 to match 1988 heroes
• From wild card to underdog - who will win Championship play-offs?

Team news

Jakirovic said the Tigers do not have any new injury concerns.

Defender John Egan had to go off in the win over Norwich after experiencing issues with his vision but is back in contention.

Millwall boss Alex Neil's main concern is around the fitness of striker Josh Coburn.

The 23-year-old missed the win over over Oxford with a knock.

Teams 'know everything' about one another

Both of the games between the two sides in the regular season were won 3-1 by the away team.

Of all the teams in the Championship play-offs, Hull have the best record against the other three sides, with four wins and two losses in their six games.

Jakirovic does not think past results will have any bearing on how the play-offs go.

"Now we're starting a new tournament. It's a new challenge. You have two games to try and reach the final," he said.

"Nothing will be decided in the first game.

"Our approach must be with a very high concentration and focus on the task in front of us because we know everything about Millwall and they know everything about us.

"I think Alex did a great job this season to be until the last round able to reach direct promotion."

The Tigers travel to The Den for the second leg on Monday.

• Latest Hull City news, analysis and fan views
• Listen to Hull City content on BBC Sounds

Phillies have an obvious trade answer if they continue winning, and his name is Fernando Tatis originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After they seemed dead in the dirt just a few weeks ago, the Philadelphia Phillies have really done a good job of bouncing back. 

We have to give credit where credit is due for this organization, as they won four in a row before losing on Thursday night against the Athletics and are 8-2 in their last 10. The Phillies know that they can be one of the best teams in baseball, and over the past few weeks, they've been just that.

Unfortunately for Philadelphia, its start to the season didn't go as planned. The Phillies are still just 17-21 and have some ground to make up in the National League East, sitting 8.5 games behind the first-place Atlanta Braves.

Despite that reality, some think they're in a position to make a blockbuster trade for Fernando Tatis Jr., a move that would show Philadelphia is continuing to be all-in.

“To his credit, the trifecta on park factor, the Phillies are the eighth-easiest in the MLB. They are also among the six or seven MLB teams generally in the market for a high-profile player. 

“While Bryce Harper could be on his way out sooner or later, Tatis could become even more attractive to the Phillies as their new face. If Harper were gone, it would be more likely in 2027. If the Padres fail in 2026, the timelines match up for the long-shot scenario. Unlike Los Angeles, Tatis would maintain much the same valuation in Philadelphia, if not worse, with the weather a bit chillier on average than in San Diego,” Thomas Carelli of SI wrote.

As Bryce Harper has shown in the past, superstars in Philadelphia typically get welcomed with open arms. The entire city loves Harper, and I can certainly imagine that there would be a similar type of feeling for Tatis. 

He's the type of guy who can really turn a city up a notch, as he has a different type of swagger than most other superstars in baseball.

More MLB news:

• Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened
• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible
• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster
• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury
• Tarik Skubal injury to play a factor on Mets ahead of MLB trade deadline
• Tarik Skubal injury expected to have a strange impact on Boston Red Sox

What should have been a week of preparation for Sunday’s Clásico has turned into Real Madrid’s biggest internal crisis in years. This Friday’s front pages all agree on a devastating diagnosis: the Madrid dressing room has blown apart after a physical confrontation between two of its key figures.

The news shaking the foundations of the club is the fight between Aurélien Tchouaméni and Fede Valverde. The details reported by the newspapers are chilling. MARCA leads with a full-page headline, "ANOTHER FIGHT... AND THE IMAGE IN TATTERS!", with the Madrid-based paper reporting that Valverde ended up in hospital with a traumatic brain injury.

AS, meanwhile, runs with "AN UNPRECEDENTED CRISIS" and adds fuel to the fire: the Uruguayan accuses the Frenchman of leaking dressing-room information, which allegedly triggered the attack after training.

Happiness in Barcelona

Concern in Madrid, joy in Barcelona. SPORT leads with the emphatic "MADRID IS BURNING!", with the Catalan newspaper highlighting that tensions are at their peak just three days before the Clásico.

They confirm that Valverde will not be able to play in Sunday’s match on medical advice after suffering a head wound. They also mention that Kylian Mbappé was caught laughing as he left the facilities just after the incident, adding even more tension to the atmosphere.

Mundo Deportivo speaks of a "BROKEN DRESSING ROOM" and details that the club’s punishment will not only be financial, but could also lead to a serious sporting suspension for both players.

⚡ Rayo Vallecano, the bright side of the coin

While Madrid is tearing itself apart internally, the Vallecas neighbourhood is living a dream. AS and Mundo Deportivo celebrate Rayo Vallecano’s historic qualification for the Conference League final after knocking out Strasbourg (0-1). They will face Crystal Palace on 27 May in Leipzig. "The happiest neighbourhood in Europe," declares AS.

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

Leeds United winger Noah Okafor says his biggest targets this season were to "adapt in the Premier League, be ready in each and every game, train hard and try to improve".

Speaking to BBC Radio Leeds, the 25-year-old said: "You can see when I'm on the pitch I try to give everything to help the team.

"I'm so happy that I can help the team - also with some goals. For an outfield player I think it's the nicest thing to score and to win."

The winger has only missed six games due to injury this campaign - fewer than in each of the past six seasons.

To ensure he has been available for Daniel Farke's side, Okafor said he has worked "extremely hard" off the pitch, which he believes has helped significantly and the medical staff at the club are "transparent" and have "a clear plan" - something he feels is important when you get an injury.

Listen to the full interview on BBC Sounds here

Brajan Gruda will be officially bid farewell to RB Leipzig on Saturday – his loan is expiring and there is no purchase option agreed.

For the time being, he will return to Brighton & Hove Albion, however Leipzig and Gruda have established an excellent relationship.

According to Sky Germany, both sides hold each other in high regard, however another straight loan is not an option for Brighton.

It makes no economic sense. Should he be loaned out again, it would be under specific conditions — such as a mandatory purchase.

A permanent transfer for Gruda is currently not budgeted for Leipzig, with a high transfer fee for his position is not currently a priority.

It must be said, should the situation in the attacking department change — and revenue be generated — this could change quickly.

The truth is that had Assan Ouédraogo not suffered a long-term injury this season, Gruda would have never been sought after by Leipzig. 

Padres fans would stop watching baseball if this Fernando Tatis Jr. trade happened originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

It's almost crazy to say that the Los Angeles Dodgers can make a trade for any player in Major League Baseball, but there aren't many better farm systems equipped to make deals than the Dodgers are. 

If Los Angeles does what is needed over the next few months before the trade deadline, it will put itself in a very good position to make any trade it wants. As things currently stand, the Dodgers remain among the elite in Major League Baseball, sitting in first place in the National League West. 

On the flip side, the San Diego Padres are only 0.5 games behind them, though some still believe that San Diego's best player, Fernando Tatis Jr., could end up in Los Angeles.

“If any MLB team can force an unlikely trade, it is the Dodgers. They might have a dramatic payroll, but much of it is deferred. No matter how much money is out there, the Dodgers will find more to pay Tatis if he ever hits the market. Knowing the Dodgers, they will also be willing to pay above market price,” Thomas Carelli of SI wrote.

Seeing Tatis go from San Diego to Los Angeles would be one of the biggest surprises in Major League Baseball over the past 10 years. 

That wouldn't only be because of what Tatis is as a player, but more so because of the rivalry between the Dodgers and the Padres. For that reason alone, I can't imagine this ever happening.

More MLB news:

• Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible
• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster
• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury
• Tarik Skubal injury to play a factor on Mets ahead of MLB trade deadline
• Tarik Skubal injury expected to have a strange impact on Boston Red Sox
• Braves set to make baseball history we haven’t seen since the 2005 New York Yankees

Chelsea are one of the clubs interested in a summer move for Sporting Lisbon’s Maxi Araujo according to reports.

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The Blues had a very quiet January, but are once again expected to be busy this summer with the squad in serious need of reinforcements.

Chelsea are thought to still be in the market for a centre back, whilst it’s believed they want to add another midfielder and attacker.

Chelsea interested in Maxi Araujo

The Blues have been heavily criticised for their youth focused recruitment strategy, but co-owner Behdad Eghbali has said the model will be tweaked.

It’s been reported the Blues are prepared to sign players with proven Premier League experience, but fans will only believe it when they see it.

The Blues have been linked with Morgan Rogers and Anthony Gordon, but it appears another name is on their radar.

AS have reported Chelsea are one of the clubs interested in Sporting’s Araujo, and have been monitoring him since the start of the season.

The report adds Manchester United, Tottenham, and Juventus have been doing the same, whilst Atletico Madrid have been following him for some time.

AS state Araujo has a release clause of €80m, with the asking price for 26-year-old the set at €50m ahead of a possible summer sale.

Araujo joined Sporting in the summer of 2024 and has score seven goals and registered four assists in 44 appearances this season.

If you enjoy Chelsea News coverage and want to see more of it, add us as a preferred source on Google to make us a favourite and see more of our content.

In other news…

Newcastle are reportedly willing to explore a move for Liam Delap, but Chelsea’s stance is the 23-year-old isn’t for sale.

More Stories / Latest News

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8th May 2026, 07:15am

Delap joined last summer for £30m, but has managed just two goals in 38 appearances this season, with only one of those in the league.

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

All Premier League fixtures between 9–11 May will be dedicated to the League’s mental health awareness campaign, including Saturday’s match against Brentford at the Etihad Stadium, ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week (11–17 May).

Through Inside Matters, the Premier League and its clubs are encouraging supporters to check in with friends, family and loved ones, helping to spark conversations and make a positive difference to mental wellbeing.

City in the Community

Tomorrow’s match against Brentford will also mark City in the Community’s annual ‘Community Matchday’,  bringing together players, fans, staff and partners in support of CITC, to help people across Greater Manchester by empowering healthier lives through football.

As part of the Premier League Inspires Challenge, participants from the City Inspires Oasis Oldham team developed an innovative support hub app to help young people access wellbeing, mental health and school support services.

After identifying key challenges facing their peers, the group created a platform that brings together trusted resources, guidance and signposting in one place, showcasing creativity, teamwork and a shared commitment to supporting others within their community.

This work reflects the wider impact of City in the Community’s City Thrive programme, launched in 2020 and delivered in partnership with the NHS, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital CAMHS and Primary Care Networks across Greater Manchester.

City Thrive uses the power of football to help normalise conversations around mental health, supporting young people through dedicated sessions.

More information about City Thrive can be found here.

Two Years of Andy’s Man Club at the Etihad Stadium

As well as Mental Health Awareness Week, May marks the two-year anniversary of Andy’s Man Club at the Etihad Stadium. Over the past 24 months, Manchester City and the Halifax-based suicide prevention charity have worked together to provide free, weekly peer-to-peer support for men in the local community.

In that time, more than 370 sessions have been delivered, supporting over 235 men, with an average of two new attendees joining each week — a reflection of both the need for and impact of these safe, welcoming spaces.

Sessions take place every Monday evening from 19:00 to 21:00 in the East Stand of the Etihad Stadium (excluding Bank Holidays), offering an open and inclusive environment for any man aged 18 or over, and anyone identifying as male.

If you or someone you know is interested in attending an Andy’s Man Club session at the Etihad more information can be found here.

For more information about Andy’s Man Club, please visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/

Samaritans

24/7 emotional support is also available to anyone who needs it.

Every 10 seconds Samaritans responds to a call for help, providing free, confidential, and non-judgemental emotional support to anyone in distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.

Contact Samaritans, free, at any time from any phone, even a mobile without credit.

Call 116 123 or you can visit www.samaritans.org.

Other Resources

The Premier League also encourages fans to look at the NHS Five Steps to Wellbeing and to create their own NHS Every Mind Matters Mind Plan for free personalised suggestions to help boost mental wellbeing.

Yankees continue to be linked to Fernando Tatis Jr, though it seems impossible originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Few teams in Major League Baseball history have the notoriety of the New York Yankees. 

The Yankees have done nothing but win for much of their existence, and the hope is that only continues throughout the 2026 campaign. The Yankees have been by far the best team in the American League, and there's a strong argument to be made that they've been the best team in all of Major League Baseball at 26-12 with a plus-81 run differential.

But that doesn't mean the Yankees aren't going to try to add at the deadline. 

In fact, I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Yankees go out and make a blockbuster move if a player becomes available. Recently, there has been some chatter that Fernando Tatis Jr. could be one of the guys who gets moved, and the Yankees have been linked to him a ton over the past few months.

“The Yankees are not just a team; they are a worldwide brand. They demand to win now, and now is always now. As the MLB has no current cap, the top teams vie for the top talent. If Tatis ever reenters the market, the Yankees will be at the top of the list.

“If Tatis ever sees a day of baseball in New York, they are going to benefit his game. In 2026, Petco Park ranked 24th easiest in park factor. Yankee Stadium, however, is a hitter-friendly park with shorter fences, being ninth in park factor this year and often ranking top-five in hitter friendliness. The Yankees will also always be good on offense, being the high-value franchise that they are,” Thomas Carelli of SI wrote.

Adding Tatis in the Bronx would make fans go absolutely crazy, and in a good way. 

The idea of the San Diego Padres superstar might be better than the actual production from him, but that isn't to say that he's not an elite player and doesn't have a chance to really turn this Yankees lineup into one of the best we've seen from the organization in a very long time.

More MLB news:

• Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster
• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury
• Tarik Skubal injury to play a factor on Mets ahead of MLB trade deadline
• Tarik Skubal injury expected to have a strange impact on Boston Red Sox
• Braves set to make baseball history we haven’t seen since the 2005 New York Yankees
• Dodgers shockingly linked to trade for Mike Trout, which would kill Angels fan base forever

Portsmouth forward Adrian Segecic has been named the Championship's player of the month for April.

The 21-year-old scored four goals last month, including a hat-trick at Stoke City which helped to cement his place as Pompey's top scorer with 11 goals across the season.

Segecic joined Portsmouth from Sydney FC in June 2025 and made 38 Championship appearances as they finished in 18th place, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

"This award is thoroughly deserved and I'm delighted for Segs, who has really impressed in what is his first season in English football," said Pompey boss John Mousinho.

"He managed to find top form at such an important time, with an assist in each of those three successive wins that secured our Championship status.

"He's still a young player, and there is plenty of room for improvement, so I'm excited to see how he can continue his development at Pompey next season."

The Australia-born winger switched international allegiance earlier this year and made his debut for Croatia Under-21s in a 3-0 European Championship qualifying win over Turkey in March, with the chance he could now make the step-up to the senior squad for this summer's World Cup.

Wrexham forward Josh Windass, Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton and Norwich forward Mohamed Toure were also nominated for the award.

For Crystal Palace, their European achievement continued a rollercoaster 12 months.

After their FA Cup final triumph, Eberechi Eze left for Arsenal and captain Marc Guehi almost moved to Liverpool, only for the deal to collapse on deadline day as the Eagles could not find a replacement.

With the added European demands - Thursday's match was their 55th game of 2025-26 - Palace's small squad started to suffer and from December they endured a 12-match winless run.

in January, Palace's FA Cup defence ended with an embarrassing 2-1 third-round loss at sixth-tier Macclesfield. Later that month Oliver Glasner announced his planned departure, with news following of England centre-back Guehi's transfer to Manchester City.

Glasner then said he felt his squad were "being abandoned completely" by the Palace hierarchy, with many expecting those comments to lead to an immediate exit.

On top of that, key striker Jean-Philippe Mateta would have left for AC Milan in January had he not failed a medical.

Despite all the chaos and drama, Glasner remained in charge and could lead them to another trophy and more magical moments.

"We want to end the season in the perfect way - and we can do it," Glasner said.

"I said to the players, 'don't do anything for me, do it for yourselves, for the club, for the fans'. Winning the Conference League means European football again next season for Crystal Palace.

"They have had a taste, with the FA Cup and Community Shield, and they want honey again. They will not be happy with just avocado. They want something sweeter."

• Read more on Palace's semi-final win

Cubs trade pitch lands nine-year veteran, but it would be a disaster originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Chicago Cubs have been very impressive to start the season, though the injuries on the mound have been a significant problem. 

It might not look like it right now because the Cubs have really stepped up in a lot of areas, but as the year goes on, there's no debate that the Cubs are going to have to make a move or two if they're in a position to win a World Series at the deadline.

Recently proposing a trade, Sports Illustrated came up with one that would be with the Houston Astros to land a starter who might not be a bad addition, but has also dealt with his fair share of injuries.

Cubs Acquire: SP Lance McCullers Jr.
Astros Acquire: INF Fernando Cruz

“The Cubs make this trade because, at 22–12 and in first place, they can focus on adding pitching depth with upside for a playoff push rather than long-term prospects. They acquire Lance McCullers Jr., who still offers strikeout ability (33 K in 31.1 IP) despite a 6.32 ERA and 1.40 WHIP, making him a high-variance but useful depth starter who could stabilize the rotation or provide matchup value,” Ryan Shea of SI wrote.

I don't mind McCullers as an arm, as I think he has the stuff to be decent and has proven that throughout his career in Major League Baseball. 

However, it's also impossible to ignore all of the injuries he's dealt with. At this point, it would be a disservice for the Cubs to go out and land a guy who isn't reliable, at least health-wise.

More MLB news:

• Tarik Skubal’s free agency case gets tough warning after injury
• Tarik Skubal injury to play a factor on Mets ahead of MLB trade deadline
• Tarik Skubal injury expected to have a strange impact on Boston Red Sox
• Braves set to make baseball history we haven’t seen since the 2005 New York Yankees
• Dodgers shockingly linked to trade for Mike Trout, which would kill Angels fan base forever
• Padres could look up the road at Angels to find the hitter San Diego desperately needs

With less than five weeks to go until the FIFA World Cup kicks off in North America, football fans are counting down the days to the announcement of squads for the 48 participating nations.

Whether it’s supporters of national teams or neutral football enthusiasts, they will be eager to find out which of their favourite players, the biggest international stars or surprise additions will make the final cut.

The expanded 48-team tournament is being cohosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, who open the tournament against South Africa at Estadio Azteca on June 11.

What are the key dates for squad announcements before the World Cup?

May 11: Preliminary squad list

National teams must submit a preliminary list by May 11, with a minimum of 35 players and no more than 55 players, including four goalkeepers.

A maximum of 75 team officials, including the coach, team doctor and team manager, can be named in the provisional release list as well.

The longlist serves as the official pool of eligible players for the tournament, and FIFA requires that any replacement due to injury before the tournament must come from this list.

Injury has already ruled out several players from the tournament, such as Brazil’s Rodrygo and Eder Militao. Others, like Egyptian forward Mo Salah and Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal, are undergoing rehabilitation for recent hamstring injuries but are expected to be in shape for the World Cup.

The provisional release list is intended for internal use only and will not be published by FIFA.

Changes may be made to the provisional release list in exceptional cases and up until the submission of the final release list, according to the global governing body.

May 25: Clubs to release players

Clubs are required to make their players available for national duty by May 25, whereby the “rest, mandatory release and preparation period” for the World Cup begins following the last official club match on May 24.

An exception is applicable to clubs whose players will be in the finals of the UEFA Champions League (May 30), UEFA Conference League (May 28), and the CONCACAF Champions Cup (May 30), subject to FIFA approval.

June 1: Final day of team submission

National teams have from May 25 to June 1 to submit their final lists of 23–26 players, three of whom must be goalkeepers.

FIFA states that a player or goalkeeper may only be replaced by a player from the provisional squad “in the event of a serious injury or illness no later than 24 hours before the team’s first match”.

The expanded roster, up from 23 players, has been in place since the Qatar 2022 World Cup to improve squad flexibility due to injuries and fatigue.

June 2: Squad announcement by FIFA

FIFA says it will announce the final lists for the 48 competing squads on June 2.

“National teams are permitted to announce their squads at any time; however, they are not considered official until confirmed by FIFA on June 2,” FIFA said.

What are the conditions for player replacement and squad changes?

Players named in the final squad submitted to FIFA can be replaced with a player from the provisional release list only in the event of serious injury or illness up until 24 hours before the kickoff of their team’s first match in the tournament.

Exceptions will not be allowed without approval from FIFA, based on the acceptance of the injured player’s medical assessment by FIFA’s medical team lead.

A goalkeeper in the final squad may be replaced by another goalkeeper from the provisional squad in the event of a serious injury or illness at any time during the tournament.

When will all World Cup teams arrive in the US, Canada and Mexico?

According to FIFA’s regulations for the World Cup, teams must arrive in their respective host country no later than five days before their first group match.

How many players will be on the World Cup roster?

Each nation can name 26 players in its squad list, making the total number of footballers entering the tournament a whopping 1,248.

What are the key tournament dates for the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The tournament will consist of one group-stage round and four knockout rounds before the final.

Unlike previous editions, the knockouts will begin with the round of 32, followed by the round of 16, the four quarterfinals and two semifinals.

The stage-wise breakdown of the tournament’s schedule is:

Group stage: June 11 June 27

Round of 32: June 28 to July 3

Round of 16: July 4–7

Quarterfinals: July 9-11

Semifinals: July 14-15

Bronze medal match: July 18

Final: July 19

Manchester United view Yan Diomande and Morgan Rogers as two ‘leading targets’ to bolster the attack next season, according to Ben Jacobs.

The two players have been heavily linked with moves away from their respective clubs this summer, and United are ready to be at the front of the queue.

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United tracking youngster Yan Diomande

Diomande has only spent nine months with RB Leipzig, but has impressed so much in his maiden season that he’s already being tipped for a move to a European heavyweight.

The 19-year-old starlet has returned 13 goals and nine assists in 34 appearances across all competitions this term, making it no surprise his form has caught the eye of a host of potential suitors, including United.

One Red Bull chief even told Flashscore that Diomande is ‘the most gifted player within our system since Erling Haaland.’

While Leipzig will do their utmost to convince the Ivorian international to stay at least another year, it’s thought that they would facilitate a sale in the coming months if they can receive a lucrative sum for Diomande’s services.

What would make United move for Rogers?

As for Rogers, Jacobs suspects United would intensify their interest in the event that Michael Carrick is appointed as the permanent manager.

Carrick worked with the Aston Villa talisman during his time at Middlesbrough in the 2023/2024 campaign.

(Photo via Ashley Crowden/REX/Shuttershock)

Rogers made 33 appearances (20 as a starter) under the former Red, scoring seven goals and assisting nine.

He is said to be plotting a Villa Park exit this summer, irrespective of whether they qualify for the Champions League.

However, before Rogers can start really considering where his future lies, he’ll just be doing his utmost to secure his spot in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup selection next month.

More Stories / Latest News

Man Utd take major steps in pursuit of £42m relegation-threatened midfielder who is ‘open’ to Old Trafford switch

May 8 2026, 7:05

Journo: Man Utd will only move for PL star primed for World Cup call-up if Michael Carrick stays long-term

May 8 2026, 6:20

‘Very concrete’: Sky journo provides Man Utd afternoon update over ‘talks’ for £50m star after Ratcliffe intervention

May 7 2026, 14:34

Manchester City face another must-win Premier League fixture this weekend as City host Brentford at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s side simply must pick up all three points against Keith Andrews’ side to remain in the title race. There is no other alternative for City this weekend. Ahead of this weekend’s must-win match, City have received a major boost on the injury front. Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias have returned to training after lengthy injury layoffs. It remains to be seen if either player will feature this weekend, but it is good news for City to have both players back in training.

Manchester City have received a major boost for the run-in.

Sky Sports reported yesterday that Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol both joined their Manchester City teammates in training yesterday. The bad news for City was that Rodri wasn’t spotted training with his teammates in Manchester City’s opening training session yesterday.

In a gallery shared on mancity.com, Josko Gvardiol was seen training for the first time since he sustained a right tibial fracture against Chelsea on Sunday. The Croatian defender shared the image via X which can be seen below.

Having Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol back is big for City.

It remains to be seen if either of Josko Gvardiol or Ruben Dias are ready to play against Brentford tomorrow at the Etihad Stadium. It seems unlikely that Josko Gvardiol will be ready to play just yet. The Croatian defender has been sidelined since January due to injury. It is highly unlikely that City will take any risks with his fitness. The fact that Gvardiol is training again is good news in itself. It now remains to be seen when Josko Gvardiol will return to the  Manchester City matchday squad.

Ruben Dias hasn’t played in the past seven matches that Manchester City has played. His last appearance for City came when they were beaten 2-1 in the Champions League Round of 16 second-leg tie by Real Madrid. The leadership and presence of Dias has was missed by City during their 3-3 draw with Everton on Monday. The hope being that the presence of Ruben Dias either on the bench, or on the pitch, can add leadership to City’s ranks. They will need it for their final games of this season.

The Manchester City squad now looks stronger that Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are back training. It remains to be seen when either player will return to the City matchday squad. Irrespective of this, having two quality defenders back in training is a boost in itself for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Manchester United have reportedly been in ongoing talks with Mateus Fernandes for the last four to six weeks.

That’s according to Ben Jacobs (via The United Stand), who has revealed that the Red Devils have been trying to determine whether Fernandes would be ‘open’to making the switch to Old Trafford – and they have found out that he is.

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Why United’s potential pursuit of Mateus Fernandes hinges on upcoming results

However, one factor that is said to be imperative in United’s pursuit is West Ham’s relegation.

The Irons dropped back into the bottom three last weekend following a 3-0 defeat to Brentford, which Tottenham Hotspur capitalised on by beating Aston Villa 2-1 to move up to 17th.

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On Sunday, West Ham will be looking to bounce back by overturning, or at least taking a point, from their clash with London rivals and Premier League leaders Arsenal.

Should the club manage to escape the drop by the end of the month, they will be adamant about keeping hold of Fernandes, who they signed only last August in a £42 million (£38m upfront + £4m in add-ons) transfer from Southampton.

West Ham will try to price United out of a deal for Fernandes

Staying in the top flight would then allow the Hammers to name their price tag for the youngster, and it would be an exorbitant one, given they want to deter any potential suitors.

Fernandes, 21, earned his maiden Portugal cap last month in a 2-0 win against the United States. Whether he’ll have done enough to be in contention to make Roberto Martinez’s World Cup squad remains to be seen, as the Portuguese certainly aren’t short of quality in the middle of the park.

When asked to name his footballing role model, the Algrave native actually opted for none other than United’s talisman and skipper, Bruno Fernandes.

“The biggest one right now is Bruno [Fernandes] because of the player he already is,” said Fernandes.

“Back when I was at Sporting [CP], I looked up to him and tried to learn from him. He plays in the same league as me, he has a lot of experience with the national team, and, in the Premier League, I try to watch him a lot. Without a doubt, he stands out.”

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The Los Angeles Lakers were targeting Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday as their opportunity to get into the series. They had lost Game 1, 108-90, on Tuesday, and everyone knew they had to get their offense going to have a shot at victory.

For a period of time, it looked like perhaps they were going to get the job done in this contest. The Lakers missed each of their first five shot attempts, and while the Thunder went on an 11-0 run in the first quarter, the Lakers responded with seven unanswered points. In the second quarter, Los Angeles started to execute well and hit shots consistently. During that period, it went 13-of-20 from the field and got hot from 3-point range, allowing it to take a 58-57 lead at halftime.

With 10:34 left in the third quarter, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was called for his fourth foul on a flagrant 1 call and headed to the bench for the rest of the period. With the Lakers up 66-61, it looked like they had a golden opportunity to take control of the game. Instead, Oklahoma City went on a 22-5 run shortly afterward and took a double-digit lead, and Los Angeles ended up committing seven turnovers in the third quarter. L.A. had no punches left to throw, and it fell in a 125-107 defeat.

While L.A. shot 50% from the field and 37.9% from 3-point range, it lost because of an old bugaboo: turnovers. It gave the ball up 21 times, which led to 26 Oklahoma City points, and it also allowed 17 second-chance points. Even worse, L.A. got only four fast-break points and attempted five fewer free throws than its opponent, leaving it unable to make up for its lack of ball security.

On the other end, the Lakers held reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to 22 points, but it was a balanced attack that killed them. Chet Holmgren also scored 22 points, Ajay Mitchell had 20 points and Jared McCain threw in 18 points off the bench. As a team, the Thunder made 55.6% of their shot attempts.

The Purple and Gold will try again to get on the board in this series when it shifts to the Southland for Game 3 on Saturday. At this point, Game 3 is a virtual must-win contest for them.

Marcus Smart: C

Smart was the only Lakers player who was in positive territory in the plus/minus category during this game. His defense helped them be competitive for a good stretch of the evening, and he notched five assists to go along with four rebounds and one steal.

But once again, he failed to give them a boost offensively. He was 4-of-13 from the field and missed all but one of his seven 3-point tries, and while he scored 14 points in 34 minutes, he needs to start hitting from the outside for the team to have any chance of making this series competitive.

Deandre Ayton: D-plus/C-minus

Ayton helped out on the boards with 10 rebounds in 27 minutes. However, it was a struggle offensively for him in this game. Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren provided the Thunder with excellent rim protection, and Ayton managed to make just one of his seven shot attempts in the first half against that defense. He didn't attempt a single shot afterward, and he ended up with just three points.

Ayton's defense, both near the rim and on the perimeter, also left something to be desired. He is another Los Angeles player who needs to manufacture more offense moving forward.

Rui Hachimura: B-plus

Hachimura provided some ample scoring early with 11 points in the first half, and as has been the case since the playoffs started, it almost seemed as if he couldn't miss from long range. But he cooled off afterward and attempted only two shots in the third quarter, which was when the Lakers needed more scoring from him.

He ended up with 16 points on 6-of-10 overall shooting and 4-of-7 from downtown. In 39 minutes, he also contributed four rebounds, two assists and one steal.

Austin Reaves: A-minus

Reaves had both of his first two shot attempts blocked near the rim. But from that point on, he started to look like his usual self for the first time since before he suffered the oblique strain that recently kept him out for nearly a month.

He scored 13 points in the first half, and he didn't let up for the rest of the game. He ended up making 10 of his 16 shot attempts and going 3-of-6 from downtown and 8-of-10 from the free throw line, giving him a game-high 31 points. He was able to get to the rim and draw fouls with enough regularity, and that is a good sign moving forward for him.

However, Oklahoma City's defense on Reaves was tight, and there were times when he was harassed out of his usual rhythm, which resulted in him committing five turnovers. But he also dropped six assists and added two rebounds, and it seems as if he may be back in game shape and rhythm just enough.

LeBron James: B-minus/B

James wasn't very aggressive offensively early, but he still managed to put up 10 points and five assists in the first half. But the Lakers needed him to put his stamp on the game in the third quarter, and he continued to be a little too passive, as he scored just four points in that period. He also created very little pace or transition opportunities, and he didn't attack downhill off the dribble as often as one might expect him to. A number of his baskets in the paint came off passes from his teammates when he had already established deep position down low.

He finished with 23 points on 9-of-18 shooting, six assists, two rebounds and three steals. But his team needed more than that from him in such a crucial opportunity game.

Luke Kennard: B-plus/A-minus

Kennard finally broke out of his slump and gave Los Angeles 10 points in 26 minutes on 4-of-5 overall shooting and 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, plus one rebound. But he should've been more aggressive in looking for his shot, and his teammates and coaching staff need to do a better job of running plays and actions to get him open.

He is a very potent offensive weapon who has been underutilized ever since Game 3 or Game 4 of the first round against the Houston Rockets.

Jaxson Hayes: B-minus

Hayes made all three of his shot attempts and scored six points, and in 15 minutes, he also had three rebounds, two assists and one block. But he looks overmatched by both Holmgren and Hartenstein in this series, as he lacks the size to contend with Hartenstein and isn't tall enough to successfully contest shots taken by Holmgren.

Jake LaRavia: D-minus

It was the same old story for LaRavia in this game: very little, if any offense, and little else in other categories. He attempted two shots and missed both of them, went scoreless and finished with one assist and one steal.

Adou Thiero, Dalton Knecht, Nick Smith Jr., Bronny James: Incomplete

All four men came in for the final 2:14 of this game, and Thiero had two brief stints earlier in the evening. Thiero had three rebounds, and Knecht scored one basket on his only shot attempt, got one rebound and had a careless turnover where he threw the ball into the scorer's table. Smith and the younger James had one assist apiece, and Smith scored two points on 1-of-3 shooting. Thiero and the younger James both went scoreless.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers player grades: L.A. loses by 18, falls behind 2-0 to Thunder

Oklahoma City Thunder (64-18, first in the Western Conference) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (53-29, fourth in the Western Conference)

Los Angeles; Saturday, 8:30 p.m. EDT

LINE: Thunder -8.5; over/under is 211.5

WESTERN CONFERENCE SECOND ROUND: Thunder lead series 2-0

BOTTOM LINE: The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference second round with a 2-0 lead in the series. The Thunder won the last matchup 125-107 on Friday, led by 22 points from Chet Holmgren. Austin Reaves led the Lakers with 31.

The Lakers are 33-19 in conference matchups. Los Angeles averages 116.3 points and has outscored opponents by 1.7 points per game.

The Thunder have gone 41-11 against Western Conference opponents. Oklahoma City is eighth in the Western Conference with 25.8 assists per game led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaging 6.6.

The Lakers average 11.8 made 3-pointers per game this season, 2.5 fewer makes per game than the Thunder allow (14.3). The Thunder are shooting 48.4% from the field, 0.1% higher than the 48.3% the Lakers' opponents have shot this season.

TOP PERFORMERS: LeBron James is averaging 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists for the Lakers. Rui Hachimura is averaging 16.4 points over the past 10 games.

Gilgeous-Alexander is scoring 31.1 points per game with 4.3 rebounds and 6.6 assists for the Thunder. Holmgren is averaging 16.0 points and 7.9 rebounds while shooting 61.1% over the past 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Lakers: 6-4, averaging 103.6 points, 40.4 rebounds, 25.3 assists, 8.9 steals and 5.3 blocks per game while shooting 48.1% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 100.5 points per game.

Thunder: 8-2, averaging 118.5 points, 42.4 rebounds, 27.4 assists, 10.2 steals and 5.2 blocks per game while shooting 49.2% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 107.8 points.

INJURIES: Lakers: Luka Doncic: out (hamstring), Jarred Vanderbilt: day to day (finger).

Thunder: Jalen Williams: out (hamstring), Thomas Sorber: out for season (knee).

___

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

Detroit Pistons (60-22, first in the Eastern Conference) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (52-30, fourth in the Eastern Conference)

Cleveland; Saturday, 3 p.m. EDT

LINE: Cavaliers -4.5; over/under is 212.5

EASTERN CONFERENCE SECOND ROUND: Pistons lead series 2-0

BOTTOM LINE: The Detroit Pistons visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference second round with a 2-0 lead in the series. The Pistons won the last meeting 107-97 on Thursday, led by 25 points from Cade Cunningham. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 31.

The Cavaliers are 33-19 in Eastern Conference games. Cleveland has a 2-5 record in games decided by less than 4 points.

The Pistons are 12-4 against the rest of their division. Detroit is fourth in the league scoring 18.0 fast break points per game led by Cunningham averaging 3.7.

The Cavaliers make 48.2% of their shots from the field this season, which is 3.9 percentage points higher than the Pistons have allowed to their opponents (44.3%). The Pistons average 117.8 points per game, 2.4 more than the 115.4 the Cavaliers allow to opponents.

TOP PERFORMERS: Mitchell is scoring 27.9 points per game with 4.5 rebounds and 5.7 assists for the Cavaliers. James Harden is averaging 17.6 points and 5.1 rebounds while shooting 42.3% over the past 10 games.

Cunningham is averaging 23.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 9.9 assists for the Pistons. Tobias Harris is averaging 21.6 points over the last 10 games.

LAST 10 GAMES: Cavaliers: 5-5, averaging 111.1 points, 44.3 rebounds, 22.4 assists, 8.0 steals and 4.8 blocks per game while shooting 47.0% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 110.6 points per game.

Pistons: 7-3, averaging 106.8 points, 46.4 rebounds, 22.8 assists, 8.6 steals and 8.0 blocks per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Their opponents have averaged 100.3 points.

INJURIES: Cavaliers: Sam Merrill: day to day (hamstring).

Pistons: Kevin Huerter: day to day (adductor).

___

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

UFL games on TV today: Full schedule, times, channels, live streams, scores for Week 7 football originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Going into Week 7, the UFL is officially nearing the end of regular season play. Every game matters at this point.

Still holding strong at the top of the standings, DC scored yet another solid win over Dallas last week, 24-6. The Battlehawks defeated the Kings 16-3, while Orlando took another loss in back-to-back weeks, this time against Birmingham. The Storm still remain tied for second despite recent struggles.

This week's matchups pit DC and Louisville against each other, as well as St. Louis and Columbus. The Renegades and Stallions will go head-to-head for a No. 4 vs. No. 5 showdown. Orlando-Houston will round out the weekend of matchups. 

Be sure to tune in for all the action.

Here's everything you need to know about Week 7 of the UFL season, including TV channel and streaming options for each matchup. 

  UFL games on TV today: Full schedule for Week 7

 Where to watch UFL games

• TV channels: FS1, Fox, ESPN
• Live stream:fubo

UFL Week 7 games will air on FS1, Fox and ESPN. All of them are available to stream live on fubo.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

UFL games next week

Here's the full UFL schedule for Week 8:

Do Arsenal have a West Ham curse? How title run-ins have faltered vs. Hammers, giving Man City hope originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Arsenal are within touching distance of a season for the ages.

An emotionally charged 1-0 win over Atletico Madrid at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday secured a first Champions League final appearance for 20 years.

That victory came 24 hours after Manchester City dropped points in a crazy 3-3 draw at Everton, leaving the Gunners five points ahead of Pep Guardiola's side at the top of the Premier League table. 

Arsenal have three matches left to play and City have one in hand. But, in the first of those this weekend, a lumbering, bubble-blowing monster lies in wait.

Mikel Arteta's side won't blow this against West Ham... will they?

MORE:Arsenal Champions League final plan confirmed amid £122m UEFA payout

Do Arsenal have a West Ham curse?

Arsenal and West Ham have played 154 times across all competitions. The Gunners have 74 wins to the Hammers' 38 victories. The other 41 games have finished as draws.

In the Premier League era, Arsenal are similarly dominant in the rivalry, with 38 wins to West Ham's 10 and 11 draws.

So, with relegated Burnley and Conference League finalists Crystal Palace still to come for Arsenal, nothing much to fear, right? Well, across three consecutive second-place finishes for Arteta's side over the past three seasons, this fixture has not always been so straightforward.

West Ham 2-2 Arsenal, 2022/23

Arsenal recovered from a 1-0 halftime deficit to win 3-1 at home to West Ham on Boxing Day 2022, their first game back after the mid-season break for the Qatar World Cup.

Arteta's side were not expected by many observers to be in title contention that season but romped to a magnificent 50 points from their first 19 games. City gradually began to haul them in, however, and a run of three consecutive draws that preceded a 4-1 defeat at the Etihad Stadium saw the title get away.

Perhaps the most galling of these stalemates was a 2-2 draw at London Stadium on April 16. Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard put Arsenal 2-0 up inside the opening 10 minutes, but Said Benrahma reduced the arrears from the penalty spot and Jarrod Bowen ensured a share of the spoils.

Arsenal 0-2 West Ham, 2023/24

A repeat of the 6-0 win Arsenal secured at London Stadium on February 11, 2024 would do very nicely indeed this weekend, yet West Ham had already dealt out some punishing title-race damage that season.

The 2023/24 campaign went down to the final day, with City outlasting Arsenal as the top two finished on 91 and 89 points respectively. It meant Gunners fans could rue any of the 10 occasions when they dropped points, with the 2-0 post-Christmas defeat to the Hammers at the Emirates one that loomed large.

West Ham also beat Arsenal 3-1 in the Carabao Cup in November of that season.

Arsenal 0-1 West Ham, 2024/25

Liverpool ran away with the title last season, although it might have been different had Arsenal not coughed up a 1-0 defeat to West Ham on home soil on February 22. Arteta's side had demolished a bedraggled Manchester City 5-1 earlier that month, but Bowen scored the only goal shortly before halftime to ensure the points went back to east London.

The result left Arsenal eight points behind Liverpool with 12 games to play and they never looked like hauling that in. Looking ahead to this weekend, the fact Arsenal won last season's corresponding fixture 5-2 at the former Olympic Stadium is certainly a positive.

Jarrod Bowen record vs. Arsenal

During the neck-and-neck title race of 2018/19 between Manchester City and Liverpool, some Reds supporters on social media changed their avatars to the star forward of whoever City were playing. This unusual trend peaked when pictures of Burnley striker Ashley Barnes were all over Liverpool Twitter the weekend Sergio Aguero's goal pilfered a 1-0 win at Turf Moor.

If City fans were to reprise the joke this weekend, they'd be sticking Jarrod Bowen all over their accounts. West Ham are in a relegation battle despite having one of the most dependable wide forwards in the Premier League in their ranks. The England international has eight goals and 10 assists this season and boasts a fine record against Arsenal.

As mentioned above, he scored in the 2023 2-2 draw and 2025 1-0 win that shook the Gunners' title ambitions. Overall, he has five goals and an assist in 13 appearances against Arsenal. Four of those have come in the Premier League, where Bowen has only scored more frequently against Wolves (six) and Brentford (five)

Tough, rock-solid, and a real character: today, Lucimar da Silva Ferreira celebrates his 48th birthday. A fierce defender, he came to Inter in the summer of 2009, and in his first season with the Nerazzurri he became a pillar in the side that won the Coppa Italia, Serie A, and Champions League. Also known for his driving runs with the ball, Lúcio played for Inter for three seasons, racking up 136 appearances and five goals. Over his three years in Milano, the Brazilian won six trophies: the 2009/10 treble as well as a Supercoppa, another Coppa Italia, and the Club World Cup.

Born in Planaltina on May 8 1978, Lúcio turns 48 today. FC Internazionale Milano and all Nerazzurri fans send our very best wishes!

As the days tick down to the start of the World Cup, senior Fifa figures under Gianni Infantino are understood to be “very nervous” about other numbers. Ticket sales are nowhere near expectations, despite bombastic talk of 500 million requests.

There’s an obvious reason, that anyone could have told Fifa. If they are “nervous”, loyal fans are agonising over life-changing money. Bodies like the Football Supporters Association [FSA] and US-based executives like the former Liverpool CEO Peter Moore estimate that it will cost between $10,000 and $35,000 to follow your team right through.

Even the home supporters - including Donald Trump - feel it is far too costly, as indicated by the low sales reported by The Athletic for the USA’s opening game in Los Angeles.

“Fifa overplayed their hand,” one involved source says, “and got the pricing wrong”.

“I wouldn’t pay it, either,” Trump even said on Thursday, as he added he would be “disappointed” if his voters couldn’t go. That must have been especially embarrassing for Infantino.

So much for the supposedly universal US “culture” of being willing to pay high prices for any major “entertainment event”, that Fifa apparently had to abide by.

Such arguments play into another schism, which points to how this World Cup may drastically influence football’s future. That’s the philosophical tension between the idea of football as a cultural good - most visible in the European model of sport and UK football governance bill - and US consumerism where it’s just another commodity.

Fifa, officially a non-profit charity notionally safeguarding the game, have overwhelmingly come down on one side.

The ticket pricing - headlined by some final tickets listed on Fifa’s resale site for over $1m - is all the worse because of the awareness that everything else is going to cost so much. Even qualified teams are still concerned they could lose money due to expenses.

Fifa couldn’t have but been aware of this yet have loaded cost up anyway.

And while this might normally have been accepted as the price of a World Cup in an expensive country, many extra costs are direct consequences of Fifa deals.

A line by one insider speaks volumes. “It’s a lesson in how to suck the joy out of it.”

Welcome to the great World Cup rip-off.

Tickets frame everything about this World Cup’s expense, but how did Fifa actually come to this model… and why?

It is a huge departure from every previous tournament, with so many jaw-dropping numbers.

For the eventual finalists, most fans will pay a minimum of £5,200 for tickets alone. The initial controversy about such figures may now lead to the absurdity of family members sitting beside each other but paying thousands of pounds more due to one being fortunate enough to qualify for the token number of $60 Category 4 tickets created after that outcry.

“And we still don’t know where final seated categories will be,” says the FSA’s Thomas Concannon, amid further criticism for how some tickets have had their positions moved. Football Supporters Europe quip that it’s “dynamic categorisation”.

Some of those cheaper tickets for England-Croatia have still appeared on Fifa’s official resale site for $2,300.

The issue of this “secondary market” - and how “touting” is legal in the US - has admittedly created a unique challenge for this World Cup, but some of the responses are still baffling.

As well as cashing in on huge potential mark-ups, Fifa takes a 15 per cent “resale facilitation fee” and another 15 per cent from the seller.

The governing body’s persistent line is that all revenue is ultimately redistributed around the game, primarily through the Fifa Forward programme.

Even if that were singularly true, and Fifa didn’t also have a duty to make the game accessible, one source has an obvious response.

“Let’s see some transparency”; show where the money actually goes.

A greater frustration is that Fifa, who are understood to have reserves of over $2.5bn, were going to make huge money anyway. Tickets were calculated at less than 50 per cent of total revenue, which was estimated to be a record $11bn - $4bn more than Qatar - from the original prices promised in the bid book back in 2018.

“You could easily chop $5bn off and everyone, including Fifa, benefits,” says Moore, now the founding owner of US club Santa Barbara Sky in California.

Weighing over all of this, however, is that Fifa’s redistribution model has also served as a long-criticised vote-returning mechanism. Infantino spreads the money around, and grateful associations elect him back in. And more money was the core part of his manifesto back in 2016. The last few weeks have already brought calls for the president’s re-election from Conmebol and CAF, despite questions over term limits.

A similar lack of transparency surrounds how ticket pricing was decided upon. Some of the most senior Fifa figures have no clue. They maintain they were simply presented with plans from the president’s office, which is how every major decision now works.

Sources with knowledge of the dynamics around Infantino say he is primarily surrounded by US-based advisers working “to fully optimise revenue using all tools available”.

There appears to be minimal interrogation of the actual merit of this.

That alone marks another significant departure for Fifa, especially from the last World Cup in the US.

Before 1994, tournament architect Alan Rothenberg had multiple ideas about tickets, that he details in ‘The Big Bounce’.

Rothenberg wanted “a really high-priced ticket” due to the associated prestige, as well as having every seat at the final priced at $1,000. In some echoes to now, too, he argued that “the street value would be at least that” so touts shouldn’t get the benefit.

“Fifa said no.”

Why?

“Overly concerned about average fans’ reaction.”

The difference to now is galling. And this was Joao Havelange’s Fifa, notorious for creating a model of governance corruption that the modern Fifa now crow as having left behind.

“The simple question,” Moore ponders, “is who this World Cup is supposed to be for.”

“These are once-in-lifetime chances for fans,” Concannon adds.

Fifa barely appear to have even acknowledged that, other than to consider what price can be put on it.

The US’s “secondary market” might still have put an even greater price on it, of course, but it’s like Fifa didn’t even want to consider obvious workarounds. They could have apportioned more to qualified associations to distribute according to loyalty schemes, in the way fan culture generally works.

Rather than appreciating a ticket as something with that cultural value, though, Fifa has instead repositioned them as an appreciable asset.

“It’s like marking up tickets for big concerts to sell,” Moore says. “But that’s not soccer.”

One justification has been that the dynamic pricing model used for some categories will allow supporters cheap tickets closer to the game, but that doesn’t help a fan who decided not to travel from Bogota or Berlin.

A further curiosity has been the contribution of another strand of “fanatic”. Any report on prices is met with bullish defences of “the market” on social media, with even USA 94’s Alexi Lalas contributing.

Academics put this down to how hardwired a capitalist/consumerist ideology is - what Michael Sandel describes as the “marketisation” and “skyboxification” of everything in American life.

“Even professional sport in America first developed as an entertainment business product,” explains Sean Hamil, an academic on sports governance at Birkbeck.

Jan Zglinski of the London School of Economics adds how “sport is primarily there to generate money”.

“In Europe, sport is thought of as a public good, intended to foster social cohesion.”

In other words, the European model of sport, as recognised in EU law.

Fifa essentially grew out of this thinking, which makes this shift all the more questionable.

For all Infantino’s talk of having to adapt to US culture, Fifa didn’t do that for any recent World Cup. Sources say that Qatar, despite all other justified criticisms, actually resisted Fifa’s attempts to apply similar pricing in 2022.

They obviously didn’t do it for South Africa, or else more locals might have been able to actually attend.

But it is also a matter of law.

Fifa is legally registered as a not-for-profit charity in Switzerland.

“None of its statutes say to maximise profit for the benefit of shareholders,” Hamil says. “They’re to promote football.

“The main problem is that it is not behaving like a not-for-profit.”

It has also fed into a host of other problems for supporters.

The ticket prices are all the more egregious because of Fifa’s apparent lack of concern at how costly a US World Cup is. Even service charges are frequently mandatory at 30 per cent, and that is one of the minor expenses. Hotels have of course been hiked up, although that amid the irony that the huge overall cost has dampened demand so prices have already dropped by 18 per cent. How couldn’t they when just getting there is worse, especially with the refusal to properly cluster games?

England, as one example, have their group games as far apart as Dallas and Boston.

Many internal flights are almost as expensive as transatlantic journeys. And for one of the rare journeys where a train is possible, like New York-Philadelphia day trips, the cost is over $300.

There’s then the headline issue of local transport. Getting to Foxboro’s Gillette Stadium from Boston will cost $80 on a train, or $95 on a bus, with a round-trip ticket from New York Pennsylvania Station to Metlife up from $13 to $105 - and the latter only after sponsorship money brought the price back down from $150.

It was the latter mark-up that Fifa’s chief operating officer for this World Cup, Heimo Schirgi, said would “have a chilling effect”.

That must be one of the most brazen ever comments in sports administration. You only have to look at any revenue stream Fifa has control over, for one.

More pertinently, such prices are a direct consequence of an astonishing deal they have struck with the host cities.

Fifa takes almost all the revenue, right up to the parking money. The cities meanwhile pick up almost all of the costs, from security to additional infrastructure.

This is the price for the privilege of hosting: a collective hole of at least $250m.

The Independent has been told Fifa did realise that US cities didn’t have access to the same funds as previous hosts, but didn’t actually adapt. They instead devised the sop of the “city supporter programme” - individual city sponsorship deals.

A problem, as reported by The Independent, is that none of those deals could cut across Fifa’s own partnerships. Huge cities were consequently left looking to local businesses.

Fifa’s other line is that the World Cup will bring tourism, but most of their decisions have put people off. Involved sources say all current indications are that travel from abroad is going to be “weak”.

The train hike-ups, meanwhile, are described by insiders as “100 per cent a consequence of this deal”.

Fifa have responded stridently to any suggestion they should pick up the cost, saying they are “not aware of any other major event previously held at NYNJ Stadium… where organisers were required to pay for fan transportation”.

But tournaments have routinely ensured ticket holders do not have to pay, mostly through deals with governments - including for Fifa’s own 2006 World Cup in Germany.

The agreements for this World Cup were changed so a previous requirement for free transport instead read “at cost”. The fans now pick up a greater cost.

Despite that, Fifa have shown no inclination to follow what Uefa did at Euro 2024 in Germany, and part-subsidise travel.

Veteran officials feel this also stems from another first for a World Cup. Fifa did away with Local Organising Committees, to take complete control.

“Nobody is there to tell them the local nuances,” one source says.

Much has similarly been made of how US Soccer have been excluded, given they would have offered views more attuned to long-term legacy.

As it is, Fifa are dropping in, occupying every space right up to the car parks and pushing everything out along with the prices, to then make off with the revenue.

While Fifa have evidently changed, so has Infantino. Old Uefa colleagues say he used to be “classic European model of sport guy”.

The Independent has written extensively about how the very position of Fifa president changes its incumbents but Infantino’s own interpretation has taken that further. His will for Fifa to be the game’s major player, rather than a regulator, has transformed outlooks.

It’s why his Club World Cup might be hugely influential. Since 2018, and initial negotiations to expand the competition with Softbank, Infantino has been in regular dialogue with the billionaire ownership class that run clubs.

They have a lot of their own ideas about ticket prices - and many actively want to “skybox” football.

This is who Infantino is listening to. It makes his own word at the recent Fifa Congress all the more conspicuous, as he enthused about how the US’s commercialisation of sport is “reaching different levels”.

“We can go to 500 billion global football GDP, half a trillion.”

Many sources add that the way he has used football to launch himself into a geopolitical class, flying on Qatari private jets, has made him “completely detached”.

Few CEOs of non-profits are on his salary, after all.

As is always the case with such tensions, it may involve the irony of harming the “product”.

Aside from the indications that fewer fans will travel, Concannon points to how the cheapest Category 4 tickets are not pitch-side - another first.

“It means the hardcore fans are up in higher tiers, so you’re not going to have the same spectacle.”

If they go. Argentina have been the great fan story of the last three World Cups, and there are already multiple stories of how they won’t travel in anything like the same numbers. The stadiums won’t have as many people who deeply care about the teams.

As one executive puts it, “the true World Cup atmosphere will die because people literally cannot afford it”.

Moore laments the likely contrast to the festival of Germany 2006. “It’s a completely different business model and a completely different set of objectives.”

And they may yet have a profound impact on football.

Fifa, notionally the ultimate safeguard, have instead led the way on commercial pursuits that many of the most corrosive influences have been striving to introduce for years. Infantino has opened the door.

Moore describes it as “the early stage of something quite profound”.

“It’s the World Cup shifting from mass-access global football toward a high-value limited-access mega event.”

Sporta’s Andrew Smith, who works on the financialisation of sport, believes Fifa have not properly considered long-term effects.

“We’ve seen this in other sports. If you price out those actually passionate about it, they lose interest in that pinnacle. There’s a fracturing. The people who create the value in the first place are turned off and the value is gradually lessened.

“The World Cup becomes two-tier. That’s very dangerous for football. It doesn’t have the guardrails for this.”

Fifa, of course, are supposed to be that guardrail.

Instead, everything seems to be going one way.

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The look on Michael Carrick's face said it all.

"Yes," he said, with a slight nod of the head and a forced smile. "I can remember that. I have not forgotten it."

The Manchester United head coach had just been asked about 13 May 2012. It is a day etched into English football folklore. The day Sergio Aguero scored a dramatic injury-time winner against QPR to give Manchester City the Premier League title.

One hundred and forty miles away, Carrick was on the pitch at the Stadium of Light as the news filtered through.

They had started their match at Sunderland knowing they needed to win. If they did and Manchester City did not, they would be champions.

No-one expected it to happen. But, amazingly, when the final whistle went at Sunderland, Sir Alex Ferguson's side were top. Wayne Rooney scored the only goal at Sunderland and Edin Dzeko had only just headed in City's equaliser against a team that had begun the day fearing relegation.

United's players and coaching staff could only wait and hope.

For them, Aguero's goal was the cruellest of blows.

United faces turned to thunder.

As the players went to applaud the visiting supporters, the cheers of the Sunderland fans echoed round the ground. Despite their own side's defeat, they revelled in United's demise as lustily as if Sunderland had won the league themselves.

"We stayed out on the pitch because we had our result but we knew it wasn't over at City," said someone who was part of the United contingent that day. "It was their last home game of the season and there were a lot of people still in the stadium.

"I just remember the noise. There was sarcasm in the way they were singing. It wasn't over but we thought we had done the job. Then the Sunderland fans got smart about it and started having a pop, which exploded into laughter because we had lost the league.

"Sir Alex [Ferguson] was down. He was annoyed at the added time and the sarcasm. You knew he wouldn't forget. He could turn that into propaganda for next time. 'Remember this day. Remember Sunderland enjoyed the moment'."

Which is exactly what Ferguson did.

As Sunderland's supporters did the 'Poznan', the trademark dance adopted by City after a visit from the Polish side, where they turn their backs to the game and put their arms around the shoulders of the fans next to them, a fierce desire for revenge burned within the Scot.

It reminded him of the aftermath of losing at Liverpool in 1992, a result which confirmed Leeds as champions at United's expense, when young players in his squad were taunted.

The message he delivered was similar.

"When we lost the league to Leeds United in 1992, I said to [Ryan] Giggs and the boys, you remember this day," Ferguson revealed at an awards dinner the day after the Sunderland trip.

"That's exactly what I said to the players yesterday. Those Sunderland fans that were cheering for City, remember the day. We won't forget that I'm telling you."

The experience was crushing.

Premier League chairman Dave Richards was not aware of how the situation had changed so dramatically.

Having left his seat at full-time for what he thought was going to be a trophy presentation, Richards congratulated a senior United official as he made his way through the stadium towards the tunnel area, only to be informed his services would not be required.

Another senior United official switched his phone off on the lonely drive home and kept it off when he arrived back. He wasn't in the mood to talk.

United's players watched the City game on their way back to Manchester. The conspiracy theories soon started.

Why, after Edin Dzeko's equaliser, did a QPR side with a number of former City players in their ranks, put the ball straight out of play near the home goalline from the restart?

This ignores the fact that a full minute later, 10-man QPR had a throw-in just inside the City half, which lone striker Jay Bothroyd challenged for, Joleon Lescott won and Nigel de Jong set off on the run that ended with one of the all-time most memorable Premier League goals.

"That should have been looked into," said Wayne Rooney, half-jokingly during an appearance on the Overlap in April 2025.

He is not the only one who remembers.

The Sunderland fans do, judging by the song they sang at Old Trafford during their 2-0 defeat by United in October.

"You thought it was yours, you thought it was yours, we heard you singing, then Sergio scored."

It is the kind of harmless banter commonplace at football grounds across the country and is bound to be given a few renditions on Saturday, for what is only United's sixth Premier League visit since that famous day.

What makes this trip stand out is that Carrick was one of those to suffer, along with Jonny Evans, who is now part of his coaching team.

The pair are part of the video footage of the aftermath, both applauding the away support, Carrick in discussion with Ashley Young, trying to dissect what had happened.

Time heals of course. Carrick was part of the side that won at Sunderland the following year on the way to a historic 20th title.

But come Saturday, one suspects the gnawing memory would make winning there again just that little bit more satisfying.

"Obviously, it was a one-off kind of feeling," said Carrick. "It wasn't during the game, it wasn't until after.

"I didn't really know exactly where the land was lying at that point. It wasn't until we walked towards the edge of the pitch and had to deal with what was thrown out.

"It's in the past, but, yeah, it definitely sticks in the memory."

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The Carolina Hurricanes won Game 3 against the Philadelphia Flyers decisively, but it wasn’t without its own level of mayhem.

Thursday night, the Hurricanes handed the Flyers a crushing 4-1 loss as they clutched onto the 3-0 series lead. It was the first game in front of the Philly crowd since April 29th, when the Flyers took Round One in Game 6 against the Pittsburgh Penguins in overtime.

Carolina was the first team on the board as Jordan Staal found the back of the net on the power play late in the first period. It was his first goal of the postseason, and a marvelous one as he jammed it across the goal line on the backhand. Both Andrei Svechnikov and Shayne Gostisbehere assisted him.

Soon came the second period, and early in the frame, Jackson Blake took a delayed penalty against Cam York for what had appeared to be high-sticking. However, the Flyers never truly went on the power play, as Trevor Zegras scored soon after.

Later in the same frame, Taylor Hall landed a hit on a falling Travis Sanheim, putting him into the boards. The play was initially called for a five-minute major, but after review, it was reduced to a two-minute minor for boarding.

Just 11 seconds later, Jordan Staal and Jalen Chatfield teamed up on the penalty kill as they rushed down the ice – Staal sending a daring pass to Chatfield through the legs of Zegras, as the Hurricanes defenseman snapped a one-timer top shelf, returning them to the top of the scoreboard once more. Jordan Martinook was credited with a helper in the process.

Penalty Madness at the Midway Point

As the penalty kill resumed, Seth Jarvis found himself with a shorthanded chance, but was held back by Jamie Drysdale – a move which should have been the end of the Flyers’ power play…except it didn’t.

After the whistle, Travis Konecny began shoving and yanking at Jarvis, and even put a cross-check on him. In retaliation, Jarvis swung his twig and caught him in the face. He was swiftly sent to the penalty box alongside Drysdale, as if nothing had ever happened – play remaining 5-on-4 in the Flyers’ favor.

…But even that wasn’t the end of it.

Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour was notably unhappy with the lack of a call against Konecny. The referee, Garrett Rank, had had enough of it and quickly whistled him for a bench minor due to unsportsmanlike conduct.

“Usually get a warning,” Brind’Amour said after the game. “I didn’t get a warning. But I was a little frustrated on that sequence because of what happened. They had the original (penalty), and then I don’t know how we just come up with one (drawn penalty). That was a frustration.”

Luckily for the Hurricanes, they survived 5-on-3 hockey just fine. It was something Brind’Amour expressed gratitude for.

“The guys bailed me out there – appreciate it.”

The third period saw another pair of goals for the Hurricanes as Andrei Svechnikov – who is behind only Logan Stankoven in shots on goal on the team this postseason – notched his first goal of the playoffs. His power play goal was assisted by Sebastian Aho and Gostisbehere, his second of the night.

Nikolaj Ehlers also scored soon after, delivering the dagger as he broke away in the neutral zone. Jordan Martinook also got his second assist of the game, while K’Andre Miller got his fifth assist of the postseason, leading all Hurricanes defenseman.

They Don’t Call Them the ‘Broad Street Bullies’ for Nothin’

As expected, the Flyers began to truly show their teeth after that final goal. In the last few minutes, Konecny acquired a two-minute minor for roughing, a two-minute minor for slashing, and a ten-minute misconduct in the same altercation. Eric Robinson also took a couple minutes in the box for roughing against Konecny.

During the power play the Hurricanes had acquired from that ordeal, even more drama broke out after a whistle. Rasmus Ristolainen began shoving at Stankoven, and soon enough, Nick Seeler came in to fight him instead. In response, Gostisbehere went after Ristolainen, making quick work of him.

The weight classes certainly did not match up, with both Gostisbehere and Stankoven weighing in under 185 pounds and less than six feet tall, while both of the Flyers’ defensemen were well over six feet tall and weighing roughly 200 pounds. It was a topic that was noted during the postgame pressers, as one reporter joked about Gostisbehere not being interested in weight classes.

“I guess they aren’t either,” he said with a laugh. “Just trying to help ‘Stanky’ out. It happens, I guess, but it is what it is.”

Hurricanes Notes

The Hurricanes’ incredible 7-0 start to the postseason is just the fifth time on record it has happened, sharing the spot in history with the 1989 Montreal Canadiens (lost Stanley Cup Final), 1994 New York Rangers (won Stanley Cup Final), 2008 Pittsburgh Penguins (lost Stanley Cup Final), and the 2024 Rangers (lost Eastern Conference Final).

After missing Games 1 and 2, Alexander Nikishin made his return to the lineup after clearing concussion protocol Tuesday. The Rookie defenseman was injured in Game 4 against the Ottawa Senators after taking a hard hit.

Taylor Hall’s six-game postseason-opening point streak officially ended Thursday, after he failed to register a point on the scoresheet.

Also Read:: Flyers Announcer Seemingly Calls to Injure Hurricanes Goaltender

Related Headlines

• Hurricanes vs. Flyers: Round Two, Game 3 – Lines, Notes, Goalies, and How to Watch
• NHL Playoffs: Hurricanes Make OT Comeback Over Flyers Despite Shaky Game
• Flyers Announcer Seemingly Calls to Injure Hurricanes Goaltender

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Lakers coach JJ Redick criticized the way LeBron James is officiated and guard Austin Reaves complained about treatment from the referees after Los Angeles lost 125-107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night.

A number of Lakers players gathered around the referees at midcourt after the game and Reaves voiced his frustration to crew chief John Goble. He felt that while players were jockeying for position during a jump ball during the game, Goble crossed the line.

“At the end of the day, we’re grown men and I just didn’t feel like he needed to yell in my face like that,” Reaves said. “I told him that. I wasn’t disrespectful. I told him if I did that to him first, I would’ve gotten a tech. I feel like the only reason I didn’t get a tech was because he knew he was in the wrong. I felt disrespected.”

Reaves, Marcus Smart and Jaxson Hayes all finished with five fouls. The Thunder took 26 free throws to 21 for the Lakers. The loss sends Los Angeles home facing a 2-0 deficit heading into Game 3 on Saturday.

Redick doesn't think a team with the No. 1 seed and the reigning MVP in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander needs extra help from the officials.

“They’re hard enough to play," Redick said. "They’re hard to play, and you’ve got to be able to just call them. They foul. They do foul.”

James, still effective at attacking the rim at age 41, has attempted just five throws in two games in the series.

“LeBron has the worst whistle of any star player I've ever seen. The smaller guys, because they can be theatric, they typically draw more fouls, and the bigger players that are built like LeBron, it’s hard for them,” Redick said. “They get clobbered, and he got clobbered again tonight a bunch.”

On several occasions, Lakers players were incredulous after calls — or no-calls — from the crew. While the Lakers talked to the officials during and after the game, the Thunder players stayed calm. Redick believes that might have helped them.

“I think some of the reason that they’re officiated the way they are is because they don’t show emotion,” Redick said. "And that’s a credit to them. I mean, they really take the emotion out of the game. They’re super tight-knit. They don’t complain to the officials, and maybe they’re the beneficiaries of that, I don’t know.”

___

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

GERMAN CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

1:30 PM - Paderborn 07 vs. Karlsruher - YouTube (RC Sport) and DFL via OneFootball

1:30 PM - Kaiserslautern vs. Arminia Bielefeld - DFL via OneFootball

SAUDI KING'S CUP

3:00 PM - Al-Kholood vs. Al-Hilal - SporTV, BandSports and YouTube (GOAT)

DUTCH WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP

3:00 PM - Ajax vs. AZ Alkmaar - NSports and YT (NSports)

GERMAN CHAMPIONSHIP

3:30 PM - B. Dortmund vs. E. Frankfurt - XSports, SporTV 2, YouTube (GOAT) and DFL via OneFootball

ITALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

3:30 PM - Venezia vs. Palermo - SportyNet and YT (SportyNet)

FRENCH CHAMPIONSHIP

3:45 PM - Lens vs. Nantes - YouTube (CazéTV)

ITALIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

3:45 PM - Torino vs. Sassuolo - Disney+

SPANISH CHAMPIONSHIP

4:00 PM - Levante vs. Osasuna - ESPN 4 and Disney+

ENGLISH CHAMPIONSHIP (2ND DIVISION)

4:00 PM - Hull City vs. Millwall - ESPN and Disney+

BRAZILIAN WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP

7:00 PM - Cruzeiro vs. América-MG - NSports and YT (NSports)

NWSL

9:00 PM - Orlando Pride vs. NC Courage - YouTube (GOAT)

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

BAN vs PAK 1st Test: Why is Babar Azam not playing against Bangladesh? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Babar Azam missed Pakistan's first Test match against Bangladesh due to a left knee injury.
• The injury was confirmed following an MRI scan conducted in Dhaka.
• It remains to be seen whether Babar Azam will play in the second Test.

Pakistan received a setback before their first Test in the two-match Test series 2026 against Bangladesh as Babar Azam has been ruled out due to an injury to his left knee.

As per reports, Babar arrived in Dhaka shortly after he won PSL 11 with Peshawar Zalmi for first Test match on May 8 at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka.

However, on Thursday he developed discomfort in his knee; and after conducting an MRI scan, the medical panel concluded that it would be wise not to play him in the first Test.

While there have been no updates about the player’s fitness in the second Test match, which will take place in Sylhet towards the end of the month.

MORE:Rohit Sharma thanks 'unsung heroes' after injury return

Who replaced Babar Azam in Pakistan’s batting lineup

Babar’s unavailability is unfortunate for Pakistan, as they had been counting on him to continue his good run of form into the Tests. He was in great form during the Pakistan Super League, back to his "best" in his own admission and helping Zalmi lift the trophy.

In his absence, Pakistan will have to rely more on players like Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, and skipper Shan Masood to steady the middle order in the face of an improving Bangladesh team on their own turf.

Bangladesh has a special reason to look forward to this encounter, as they humbled Pakistan in a 2-0 sweep in their last Test series back in 2024.

Pakistan playing XI in first Test vs Bangladesh

Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Fazal, Shan Masood (c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Noman Ali, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abbas.

MORE:Is captain SKY era ending? Suryakumar’s slump puts India future in doubt

The Cricket News Opinion: Pakistan’s batters must step up in Babar Azam’s absence

Babar Azam's absence from the first Test marks a significant shift in their batting strategy. While he may not have had much success in Test cricket lately, Babar is still the best technically sound batter in the team, and he can handle the pressure of playing away from home.

In Pakistan’s Test series against South Africa in 2025, Babar Azam scored 139 runs in two matches with an average of 69.5 runs per innings, including two 50s and a maximum of 81 runs, besides bringing up 3,000 runs to his name in the ICC World Test Championship.

The team still has the talent to beat Bangladesh, but without him, any small mistake could cost them the match.

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages.

Manchester United have had their final home match of the season confirmed.

Significance

The Red Devils are currently on a three-match winning streak after losing 2-1 to Leeds United. United have beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, as well as Champions League rivals Brentford and Liverpool at Old Trafford.

The 3-2 victory over Liverpool last weekend secured a spot in next season’s Champions League.

Four points would mathematically secure a top-three finish from their last three games. The first of the remaining matches will be against Sunderland on Saturday afternoon, in a rare 15:00 BST kick-off for the Reds.

It has also been decided that United will play their final match of the season against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday 24th May at 16:00 BST, as all teams will play at the same time, as is tradition on the final day of the Premier League season.

Nottingham Forest match confirmed

There was some doubt about when United would take on Nottingham Forest in the club’s final home match of the season.

This uncertainty was due to Forest’s potential involvement in the Europa League final, but their 4-0 loss to Aston Villa ended those hopes.

If the Tricky Trees had made the final, United’s match would have taken place on Friday, but this is no longer an option.

The club’s site confirmed, “Manchester United’s Premier League game against Nottingham Forest will go ahead on Sunday 17 May, as provisionally scheduled.”

The club also confirmed that, “the final home fixture of the season for Michael Carrick’s men gets under way at 12:30 BST on that date.”

The game will also be shown live on Sky Sports for viewers in the UK.

The match-up promises to be emotional, as it will be Casemiro’s final game at Old Trafford as a United player, and Red Devils fans are bound to want to give the Brazilian an impressive send-off.

Casemiro Stats: 2025/26 Season

Featured image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

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Liverpool have faced a lot of problems this season.

The Anfield outfit haven't been their usual selves with 11 of their Premier League games ending in defeat.

Fortunately for Arne Slot and co, the rest of England's top flight haven't been at their best either which means that they're still in contention for a Champions League spot.

They're currently sitting in fourth place, six points behind Manchester United and, with just three games to go, it's unclear whether they'll have what it takes to stay there, especially since Aston Villa are in fifth and are level on points with them.

With this in mind, it's clear to understand why so many players are being linked with an Anfield switch this summer with the asking price for one of their targets now being revealed.

Liverpool would have to fork out £34.5 million to sign Pierre Kalulu from Juventus

Liverpool's defence is one of the main areas that needs some new players to be added to it this season.

This term, the Anfield outfit have been forced to start Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk as their centre-backs in almost every game with the duo taking a lot of flak for their performances.

Several fans have demanded that Konate gets dropped with some even saying that his performances this season have been his worst-ever.

So, when all of this is taken into account, it's hardly surprising to see that several new defenders are being linked with Liverpool this summer.

And, as per a fresh report from Caught Offside, Pierre Kalulu is seemingly available for a decent price.

"I feel I should also share some information, however, from sources who’ve done a lot of work in and around the agents industry," they wrote.

"[They] state that the strong suspicion is that Juve would sell for the right price, perhaps around €40m, especially if the player won’t agree to a new contract.

"There is not yet a clear frontrunner out of Liverpool or Man United, but both clubs are making a defensive signing a top priority this summer, so it’s just about determining who looks like the best option and also who’s available.

"On that latter factor, it’s fair to say the messages are a bit mixed, but my personal feeling is that I suspect there might be an offer that would test Juventus’ resolve, even if they genuinely want to keep him."

Pierre Kalulu would be an interesting addition for Liverpool

Even though Manchester United also have a strong interest in signing Kalulu, it still feels like Liverpool would be the safer option for the Frenchman.

He's only 25 years old and, even though his best position is centre-back, he's also been used as a right-back over the last few years.

And, if we're being honest, both positions have been problem areas for the club this summer with Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong both failing to meet expectations due to injuries and poor form.

The former AC Milan man also fits in with the Reds' recent recruitment as he's still young but is already first-team ready.

The fact that the "leader" would only cost Liverpool around £34.5 million is also massive as, with the number of changes they need to make this term, every penny counts.

Several other players such as Marcos Senesi have also been linked with an L4 move but, on paper, the versatility and age of Kalulu make him a perfect candidate for Hughes and Slot to explore.

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS VOLLEYBALL PLAYOFFS 

Thursday’s Results  

CITY SECTION

QUARTERFINALS 

DIVISION I 

#1 Taft d. #9 East Valley, 25-23, 23-25, 25-8, 25-18

#4 North Hollywood d. #5 VAAS, 3-2

#3 Cleveland d. #6 Vaughn, 25-23, 25-22, 25-23

#2 Sylmar d. #7 Larchmont Charter, 25-20, 25-18, 25-20

DIVISION II

#1 LA Hamilton d. #8 Huntington Park, 3-0

#4 Marquez d. #5 Bernstein, 3-0

#6 Narbonne d. #3 Diego Rivera, 3-0

#7 Panorama d. #2 LA University, 25-16, 24-26, 25-15, 25-20

SECOND ROUND 

DIVISION III 

#1 New West Charter d. #17 San Fernando, 25-14, 14-25, 26-24, 25-13

#9 Central City Value d. #8 Foshay, 25-16, 13-25, 17-25, 28-26, 16-14

#5 University Prep Value d. #12 Northridge Academy, 23-25, 29-27, 25-23, 25-22

#13 Birmingham d. #4 Sun Valley Magnet, 25-18, 25-21, 25-20

#3 South East d. #14 Fairfax, 25-15, 25-19, 25-16

#11 Monroe d. #6 Reseda, 25-22, 25-23, 18-25, 25-19

#7 Lincoln d. #10 Animo Bunche, 21-25, 25-19, 23-25, 25-22, 15-8

#2 Legacy d. #18 Granada Hills Kennedy, 25-21, 25-22, 25-15

DIVISION IV

#17 Canoga Park d. #1 Hollywood, 25-16, 25-17, 25-20

#8 Annenberg d. #9 LACES, 3-0

#12 Mendez d. #5 Animo South LA, 3-2

#4 Math & Science College d. #20 Chavez, 25-23, 25-18, 29-27

#3 Manual Arts d. #19 West Adams, 3-1

#6 King/Drew d. #11 Animo Robinson, 25-21, 21-25, 19-25, 25-15, 15-11

#7 Maywood CES d. #10 Arleta, 25-23, 24-26, 25-17, 25-16

#2 RFK Community d. #18 Community Charter, 22-25, 26-24, 25-17, 25-22

DIVISION V

#1 WISH Academy d. #17 Garfield, 25-21, 25-14, 25-22

#9 Alliance Levine d. #8 Locke, 25-19, 20-25, 25-23, 25-19

#21 LAAE d. #5 Fulton, 25-20, 24-26, 25-13, 25-20

#13 Rancho Dominguez d. #4 Animo Watts, 22-25, 22-25, 25-22, 25-16, 15-13

#14 Franklin D. #3 Jefferson, 25-16, 25-20, 25-23

#6 Gardena d. #11 Stern, 25-13, 25-17, 25-19

#10 Animo De La Hoya d. #7 Horace Mann UCLA, 25-27, 27-25, 25-20, 26-24

#15 Sotomayor d. #2 Bert Corona, 25-20, 25-20, 25-23

Note:Quarterfinals Divisions III-V May 11; Semifinals Open Division-Division I May 12; Semifinals Divisions II-V May 13; Finals All Divisions May 15-16.

Sign up for the L.A. Times SoCal high school sports newsletter to get scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

After seven months of league action, the race for the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-offs is going down to the wire.

After a break for European semi-finals, the URC returns for the final two rounds of the regular season with plenty still to be decided.

The tussle for seedings in the top four - and home advantage in the quarter-finals - is tight but not as tense as who finishes in the top eight.

Cardiff missed out by a point last season after Lions were pipped by Ospreys on games won a year earlier.

BBC Sport looks at what is at stake in the final games and how other results could impact Champions Cup qualification.

• Morgan set for 'emotional' last Ospreys home game
• How Wainwright became Dragons great before Parade goodbye

URC standings

Fighting for top spot

First place is of huge value given that it will mean home advantage throughout the play-offs, including the Grand Final on Saturday, 20 June.

Stormers and Glasgow have secured play-off places, though the South Africans suffered a surprise home defeat by Connacht in round 15.

Both teams face the same opposition in the final weeks against Cardiff and Ulster, who are also chasing play-off spots.

Defending champions Leinster and Lions can also secure home advantage in the quarter-finals and meet in Dublin on Saturday, 9 May.

Munster are chasing hard while seventh-placed Bulls look threatening.

Who will miss out?

Lions and Leinster have one foot in the play-offs so it appears five clubs are chasing the final four spots.

The Irish trio of Munster, Ulster and Connacht as well as Cardiff and Bulls - who have lost three of the last four finals - are battling for those places.

Connacht stunned Stormers in Cape Town but are three points off the pack and defeat by Munster this weekend could end their bid if other results also go against them.

"This one has got real significance because of the league position. We are fighting for every point," said head coach Stuart Lancaster.

"Every team above us is playing meaningful games where they can take points off each other, so there's a lot to play for."

Munster would be nervously looking over their shoulder if they lose in Galway, with a final fixture against Lions.

Nonetheless, Gavin Coombes remains confident in the bid to repeat their 2023 title triumph.

"We're so tight and connected as a group that belief inside this building is huge," said the back-row forward.

Cardiff aim to ensure Welsh interest in the knockouts and are fuelled by narrowly missing out to rivals Scarlets last season, but face the top two sides in the final weeks.

"It's really tough to do all the calculations about other teams but it's still in our hands and we can control it," said head coach Corniel van Zyl.

"So it's back to the old cliche of this week being the most important and we will try to get as many points as we can."

A late win at Scarlets kept the Bulls seventh and they finish on home soil against the Italian pair of Zebre and Benetton.

Maximum points would not only claim a play-off place but potentially the huge advantage of a home quarter-final at altitude in Pretoria.

Ulster have recovered from a horrendous 2024-25 when they finished 14th, but have wobbled with back-to-back URC losses.

The Challenge Cup finalists finish against the top two in Belfast with scrum-half Nathan Doak aiming to build on their rousing semi-final win against Exeter.

"We've lost a few league games at home," he said. "The last two games at home are massive for us. We'll not be taking the foot off the pedal at all."

Champions Cup qualification

Ulster take on Montpellier in the Challenge Cup final, aiming to end a 20-year trophy drought.

It also comes with qualification for next season's Champions Cup, even if Richie Murphy's side miss out on the URC play-offs.

That would mean the team finishing eighth in the URC would miss out on Europe's top-tier competition, as happened to Ospreys in 2024 when Sharks lifted the Challenge Cup.

So, a top-seven finish could prove crucial for all involved.

Remaining URC fixtures

Round 17

• Glasgow v Cardiff
• Ulster v Stormers
• Bulls v Zebre
• Sharks v Benetton
• Ospreys v Scarlets
• Leinster v Lions
• Dragons v Edinburgh
• Connacht v Munster

Round 18

• Cardiff v Stormers
• Ulster v Glasgow
• Edinburgh v Connacht
• Sharks v Zebre
• Bulls v Benetton
• Leinster v Ospreys
• Scarlets v Dragons
• Munster v Lions

Quarter-finals: 29-31 May

Semi-finals: 5-7 June

Final: Saturday, 20 June

NJIT at Boston College — ACCNX

MLS: Philadelphia Union vs. New England Revolution — Apple TV

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

Navy at Bucknell — ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited

UNC Greensboro at Virginia Tech — ACCNX

California at Virginia — ACCNX

MLS: D.C. United vs. Nashville SC — FS1, Apple TV

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

Oakland at Notre Dame — ACCNX

Michigan State at Ohio State — Big Ten Plus

Western Michigan at Bowling Green — ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited

Michigan at Minnesota — Big Ten Plus

Detroit at Kansas City — Detroit SportsNet, ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited, MLB.TV, Royals.TV

Detroit at Cleveland — NBC, Peacock

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

In a crisp, two-hour, 25-minute pitching duel where the smallest of details made the biggest of differences, catcher Pedro Pagés had arguably the play of the game in yet another narrow road victory for the St. Louis Cardinals.

With the Cardinals nursing a one-run lead in the seventh inning, Pagés made a perfect throw to second base to nail Fernando Tatis for his MLB-leading ninth caught stealing of the season. Pagés’ play, combined with stellar starting from Matthew Liberatore and another strong closing effort from Riley O’Brien allowed the Cardinals to beat the Padres 2-1 at San Diego’s Petco Park.

The Cardinals improved to 12-5 away from Busch Stadium, giving them MLB’s best winning percentage (.706) on the road this season. The Cards also won their eighth one-run game, which is tied for the most in the big leagues in 2026.

Burly blast ties it up! 🚀 pic.twitter.com/ah82GdafH6

— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) May 8, 2026

With the Cards leading 2-1, Tatis Jr. led off the bottom of the seventh with an infield hit against reliever George Soriano. Even though Soriano typically leans on his changeup, Tatis picked a fastball to try and swipe second base and get in scoring position. Pagés’ throw to JJ Wetherholt was on target to get the out call, which stood up despite a lengthy replay review initiated by the Padres.

On the season, Pages has thrown out nine of 28 base stealers. Not only is his 32.1 percent success rate in throwing out runners well ahead of the 2026 MLB average for catchers (29 percent), but Pagés is easily on pace to set a career mark.

Surprisingly steady Cardinals have been road warriors all of 2026

O’Brien, whose fastball topped out at 101 mph in the ninth inning, picked up his 11th save in 13 opportunities this season.

Cardinals win their eighth one-run game    

Locked into pitcher’s duel, the Cardinals grabbed the lead after the Padres pulled Michael King after six innings – even though he had allowed just one hit. When reliever Bradgley Rodriguez left a changeup up, Jordan Walker hammered it off the wall in left field for the first of his two doubles.

Walker came around to score when Padres’ right fielder Nick Castellanos dove for a looper by Masyn Winn and missed for a triple and an RBI.  

Masyn gives us the lead with a go-ahead triple! 😤 pic.twitter.com/RPPu2T5Hu0

— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) May 8, 2026

Trailing 1-0 after allowing yet another first-inning run allowed, the Cardinals knotted the score when Alec Burleson teed off on a King changeup. Burleson’s line drive homer left the bat at 111.2 mph, and it carried 378 feet for his sixth home run of the season.

Burleson’s blast was the only blemish off King, who limited the Redbirds to one run and one hit.

Liberatore was similarly effective, holding the Padres to just one run and three hits over six innings. Throwing the curveball that he leaned on early in his career more often, Liberatore struck out six and walked three. He pulled after just 81 pitches largely because of his troubles when facing lineups a third time this season.

As has so often been the case with Cardinals’ pitchers this season, Liberatore ran into trouble in the first inning. The Cards lost to the Brewers on Wednesday at Busch Stadium largely because right-hander Andre Pallante strayed from his game plan and surrendered four first-inning runs.

In that first inning, Liberatore issued a two-out walk to Manny Machado, who scored following singles by Fernando Tatis Jr. and Xander Bogaerts. Liberatore limited the damage allowed by deftly picking Bogaerts off first base when he looked away ever so briefly.

 The earned run pushed the Cardinals’ ERA to 5.25 in the first inning, 23rd in MLB.

Libby with a quality start! pic.twitter.com/Tab6FpAtSZ

— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) May 8, 2026

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Pittsburgh at North Carolina — ACCNX, ESPN Unlimited

Navy at Bucknell — ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited

Washington at Penn State — Big Ten Plus

St. John's (NY) at Villanova — ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited

Colorado at Philadelphia — NBCS Philadelphia, ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited, MLB.TV, Rockies.TV

Pittsburgh at San Francisco — NBCS Bay Area, SportsNet Pittsburgh, ESPN Select, ESPN Unlimited, MLB.TV

Carolina at Philadelphia — TNT

MLS: Philadelphia Union vs. New England Revolution — Apple TV

The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV.

• Rodri missed Man City training on Friday ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Brentford
• Ballon d’Or winner suffered a calf issue in the closing stages of the 2-1 win over Arsenal
• City face Brentford on Saturday knowing three points are essential to keep the title race alive

Manchester City midfielder Rodri was absent from first-team training on Friday ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Brentford at the Etihad Stadium.

Rodri has been managing a calf issue sustained in the closing stages of City’s 2-1 Premier League win over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in April, with Guardiola having handled him carefully in the weeks since.

The Spaniard was absent from City’s matchday squad for the 3-3 draw at Everton on Monday night and his absence from Friday’s session raises fresh doubts over his availability for Saturday against Brentford.

Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol return to Manchester City training ahead of Brentford clash

The timing is significant. City go into the Brentford fixture five points behind Arsenal with a game in hand, with three points at the Etihad Stadium essential to keep any realistic hope of a title challenge alive.

Guardiola will be without one of the most important players in world football if Rodri is unable to recover in time as the Blues pursue a domestic treble in the final three weeks of the season.

Report: Rodri absent from City training

According to Sky Sports News, Rodri missed Manchester City training on Friday ahead of Saturday’s Premier League home fixture against Brentford at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola is expected to provide a fitness update on the Ballon d’Or winner in his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon, though the sight of Rodri absent from the session will concern City supporters heading into one of the most important games of the season.

What would Rodri’s absence mean for City?

Rodri’s influence on Manchester City cannot be overstated. The 29-year-old is the heartbeat of Guardiola’s midfield and his absence across the first half of last season – through the long-term knee injury sustained in September 2024 – contributed significantly to City’s inconsistency during that period.

Nico Gonzalez and Mateo Kovacic have deputised capably in his absence at various points this season, though neither offers the same combination of defensive authority and creative control that Rodri brings to the team.

Hugo Viana and Manchester City face possible Rodri exit as Bernardo Silva departure looms

With Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol having trained on Friday to provide a boost in defence, the concern now shifts to midfield and whether City’s most important player will be available when they need him most.

Everyone is saying the same thing about how the refs treated Lakers in Game 2 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Oklahoma City Thunder entered Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinal matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers looking to take care of business early. Both teams were physical with emotions running high, leading to some questionable calls by the referees.

As expected, OKC wanted to set the tone and take advantage of the home court environment. For the Lakers, there was no celebrity treatment and fans took notice of the inconsistency. Social media lit up with comments about how the game tilted in favor of the Thunder.

Lakers coach JJ Redick even called out the refs in his postgame press conference. "LeBron has the worst whistle of any star player I've ever seen." He went on to say the NBA superstar was clobbered during the game. 

Here are a few of the comments about how the game was played. 

All that damn flopping

— shannon sharpe (@ShannonSharpe) May 8, 2026

OKC games are unwatchable. The refs are even dressed in their colors tn! Brazy

— Lil Wayne WEEZY F (@LilTunechi) May 8, 2026

Austin Reaves and the Lakers WENT OFF on the refs after the game...

OKC was watching and laughing at them 😂 pic.twitter.com/TXMlCvOvhN

— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) May 8, 2026

LeBron is so pissed 😭

The refs have lit a fire under the Lakers and I think we’re gonna see an ANGRY Lakers team in Game 3… pic.twitter.com/MGTE3rwmPA

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) May 8, 2026

This game was stolen from the Lakers. Idc what anyone says. Worst refs I've seen in a long time pic.twitter.com/xZuowGenZv

— NBA Shane (@Shane00) May 8, 2026

LeBron is fed up with the refs favoring Oklahoma City. pic.twitter.com/6TopDhtgUn

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) May 8, 2026

This is why the we’re heated @Lakers , the calls were horrible by the refs @NBA@ESPNNBA@NBATV#nbapic.twitter.com/waeJCwkMyF

— The Dogefather🌕 (@dogefather_Twit) May 8, 2026

MORE: Thunder vs. Lakers final score, results: Oklahoma City goes up 2-0

Oklahoma City hit the road to Los Angeles. Game 3 will be on Saturday. 

More NBA news:

• San Antonio has best NBA Playoff win since 1983
• Nuggets legend slams 'frugal billionaire' owner Stan Kroenke, doesn't expect offseason moves
• Thunder vs. Lakers final score, results: Los Angeles can't keep up on the road
• Knicks blowout 76ers in Game 1 of 2026 NBA Playoffs
• Tyran Stokes is all over social media after tough adjustment before future NBA journey

The Padres’ two-game win streak came to an end Thursday night as they fell 2-1 to the St. Louis Cardinals (22-15), due in large part to a lack of offense — again.

It continues to be a theme for San Diego (22-15) this season, especially after managing just four hits Thursday night, with two of them coming from Fernando Tatis Jr.

Thursday night turned into a pitching duel between Michael King and Matthew Liberatore, who combined to allow just four hits through six innings.

King allowed only one hit , a home run, while pitching six innings, giving up one earned run and striking out six batters. It was his third game this season pitching five or more innings while allowing one hit or fewer, the most in MLB according to ESPN.

He wanted to go back out for the seventh inning, especially after throwing only 86 pitches through six.

“Very badly,” King said. “You know I'm never happy when I get pulled, but I also have a lot of emotion out there, so I let the emotionless manager make those decisions.”

His manager almost reconsidered taking him out.

“Every time he pitches makes me think twice about leaving him in the game, or taking him out of the game,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said. “He's a great pitcher, and he was on his game. Tonight was fun to watch.”

The Padres struck first in the bottom of the first inning when Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr. both reached base with Xander Bogaerts at the plate. Bogaerts checked his swing, but the ball still managed to hit the bat and float into right field. Machado turned on the jets and scored to give the Padres a 1-0 lead.

San Diego made Liberatore work early, forcing him to throw 20 pitches in the first inning, but the momentum shifted when Bogaerts was picked off at first base.

“We scored in the first which is a win,” Stammen said. “Xander getting picked off maybe killed a little bit of momentum we had in there. Momentum we had in the first but that stuff happens. We just got to, you know, figure a way to build those same kind of bats that we built with two outs there in that first inning, and we just weren't able to do it.”

In the top of the fourth inning, King surrendered the Cardinals’ first hit of the game, a solo home run by first baseman Alec Burleson. His sixth homer of the season tied the game 1-1.

Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

May 7, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Alec Burleson (41) rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.

Liberatore also went six innings, allowing three hits, one earned run, and striking out six batters.

Things shifted in the top of the seventh inning when Bradgley Rodríguez replaced King. Right fielder Jordan Walker opened the inning with a double, and two batters later shortstop Masyn Winn delivered an RBI triple to right field. Nick Castellanos dove for the ball but came up just short, allowing the Cardinals to take a 2-1 lead late in the game.

“Tough play for Nick,” Stammen said. “He went for it. Can't fault him on that. He's foot away, or whatever it was from basically changing the game and keeping it where it was.”

The Padres had an opportunity in the bottom of the ninth inning with Jackson Merrill, Miguel Andújar, and Machado due up, but two grounded out while the other struck out to end the game.

San Diego will try to bounce back Friday night in game two of the series when Griffin Canning (0-0) faces Michael McGreevy (2-2) at 6:45 p.m. PT.

Durán Debuts

The Padres were short handed at catcher after Luis Campusano was placed on the injured list with a broken toe, leading the team to recall Rodolfo Durán from Triple-A El Paso.

Durán made his first big league start Thursday night after spending 11 seasons in the minors.

“Well, it’s something inexplicable,” Durán said after the game in Spanish. “I mean, I wanted to achieve the victory—it didn't happen—but it’s something I’ve been working toward for a long time. It has involved a great deal of effort and dedication, without ever giving up. Thank God, today we were able to make that happen.”

King knew Durán from their time together in New York Yankees spring training a few years ago and said everything felt smooth working with him behind the plate.

“It was just good communication that way to know that he was following along with the scouting report, reading swings very well,” King said. “We had very good relationship throughout that game.”

Why did Skip Bayless leave 'First Take'? Revisiting 2016 jump to Fox Sports that 'pissed off' Stephen A. Smith originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For years, two of the most well-known opinionists in sports would spend their mornings debating the day's hottest topics.

Stephen A. Smith and Skip Bayless were two of the front-facing stars at ESPN from around 2012-16, when they shared their takes — then argued plenty — on "First Take."

While the two were eventually viewed as a dynamic duo of sorts as "First Take" grew in popularity, it was Bayless who brought that run with Smith to an end, deciding to leave for another network.  

Here's what to know about Bayless' 2016 exit from "First Take."

MORE: Why Stephen A. Smith called out Tiger Woods following golfer's DUI arrest

Why did Skip Bayless leave 'First Take'?

When his ESPN contract was set to expire in the summer of 2016, reports indicated by April of that year that Bayless would be leaving the network to join Fox Sports, where he would have the opportunity to anchor his own show.

His final appearance alongside Smith on "First Take" came on June 21, 2016, just two days after the Cavaliers beat the Warriors in the 2016 NBA Finals. 

By September 2016, Bayless made his debut alongside Shannon Sharpe on "Skip and Shannon: Undisputed," a similar debate show to his previous role, but at Fox Sports.

Who replaced Skip Bayless on 'First Take'?

When Bayless' role as the lead debater alongside Smith was left vacant in 2016, ESPN filled it with longtime network host and boxing commentator Max Kellerman.

While the show has also frequently used guest analysts, Kellerman was a staple alongside Smith from 2016 until 2021, when Smith reportedly requested his removal due to lack of chemistry.

Kellerman wasn't fully replaced with another full-time analyst alongside Smith. ESPN has utilized many guest analysts since then, including Kendrick Perkins, Brian Windhorst, Mina Kimes, Marcus Spears, JJ Redick, Shannon Sharpe, Michael Irvin, Dan Orlovsky, Chris "Mad Dog" Russo and Cam Newton.

How long was Skip Bayless at ESPN?

Bayless' early days at ESPN included making radio appearances in the mid-1990s and becoming a panelist on ESPN's "The Sports Reporters" in 1989 and becoming a regular for over a decade.

However, it wasn't until 2004 that he was hired full-time by ESPN, given a role alongside Woody Paige for daily debate segments called "1st and 10" on ESPN2's "Cold Pizza" while also contributing columns to the website. 

By 2007, "Cold Pizza" was replaced by a similar program, "First Take." Bayless stopped writing columns for ESPN around that time, focusing on the show; he would remain a member of "First Take" until 2016, including when Smith joined in 2012.

"It will be me and Skip Bayless reuniting for the first time in nearly a decade…he's got stuff that he wants to get off his chest…but what he really, really wants to get off his chest is me. He wants to get at me" - Stephen A. Smith pic.twitter.com/F64BdpFLKU

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 5, 2026

Where is Skip Bayless now?

In 2024, Bayless left "Undisputed" and Fox Sports after eight years with the network; he had signed a four-year extension in 2021.

Since then, he hasn't made TV appearances, but has hosted a weekly podcast, "The Skip Bayless Show," and co-hosted a show for Underdog.

Now, as of May 2026, Bayless is also set to make a one-time return to ESPN on "First Take." On Friday, May 8, Bayless and Smith will be re-uniting on the program after also speaking on Bayless' podcast in 2025 and being photographed together in November 2025.

When Bayless first left FS1 in 2024, ESPN shut down any rumors of his return. But now, he will make at least one more appearance alongside Smith.

"I hope he's ready. Because I'm not going to take any pity on him."

Skip Bayless returns alongside @stephenasmith on First Take this Friday, 10 AM ET. pic.twitter.com/D8KlK8PULN

— First Take (@FirstTake) May 5, 2026

Friday. 10 AM ET. ESPN. YOU’D better be ready, Stephen A. pic.twitter.com/QHckVBeHCx

— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) May 7, 2026

Leon Goretzka’s departure from Bayern Munich has been official for many months, as his 2026 expiring contract at Bayern will not be renewed. The Bavarians’ #8, however, has focused on the many important matches for Die Rekordmeister as the club chased an unprecedented treble. At the time of writing, however, it is May and the expiry of his contract is nearing. It is as good of a time as any for Goretzka to think about his future and it seems that he has been doing precisely that.

ESPN Deportes reporter Javier Rodríguez Pascual claims, as captured by @iMiaSanMia, that Goretzka is close to completing a move to his future club:

Leon Goretzka is close to completing a free transfer to AC Milan.

One has to wonder how a reporter for ESPN’s Spanish division, who mainly covers Real Madrid, got wind of a German moving to an Italian side.

Still, if this news were to be true, it would be a move worth analyzing. The Italian giants AC Milan have falled on to some rough years, but are close to sealing a return to the Champions League for the 2026/27 season after a fairly successful campaign under Massimiliano Allegri. If the 31-year-old were to join the seven-time UCL winners, he could potentially form a very… experienced midfield along 40-year-old Luka Modrić and 31-year-old Adrien Rabiot. Certainly, Milan have signed notable names over the years and would continue the pattern if they secured the services of Goretzka.

As for Goretzka, it would see him complete a rather remarkable career at some very notable clubs. Going from VFL Bochum to Schalke 04 to Bayern to Milan is a very impressive list of very big clubs, even if Schalke were starting to dwindle at the time of his departure and Milan are not what they used to be. The Germany international is still more than good enough to be a regular starter in a Champions League team in a top 5 league, so hopefully he would flourish should he move there.

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 all-rounder Freya Kemp says she did not consider retirement or continuing her career solely as a batter during her recent injury woes.

Kemp made her England debut aged 17 but by the age of 19 had suffered two back stress fractures, one of which meant she was unable to bowl competitively for 14 months.

She subsequently had another 'stress reaction' in the same area and has not bowled in an official match since January 2025, but has been picked in England's squad for this summer's T20 World Cup - where it is hoped she will be able to play a full part.

"It has been a long few years but I am hopefully nearly out of the other side," Kemp, now 21, told BBC Sport.

"It is horrible. It teaches you a lot about yourself and how to overcome hard stuff, and definitely teaches you a lot of resilience."

• England captain Sciver-Brunt out of NZ ODI series
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Though Kemp, whose last international appearance came during the 2025 Ashes whitewash, will not bowl in the 50-over series against New Zealand that begins on Sunday, she has been bowling in practice since January.

She has worked closely with England fast-bowling coach Chris Liddle, developing new skills which she remains tight-lipped about, and did bowl in three of the five intra-squad matches England held in South Africa in March.

It is expected she will bowl against the White Ferns and then India in the T20s which follow this three-match one-day international series, and in the T20 World Cup which begins on 12 June.

"I just really enjoy having an impact on the game as much as I can," said Kemp.

"I love bowling. I don't think I would ever give that up."

Kemp, who was carded at number nine on her international debut, also believes her injuries have allowed her to develop her batting.

She made her first professional century last year and played a full season with Perth Scorchers last winter as a top-order batter.

Earlier this year coach Charlotte Edwards, who has worked with Kemp at Southern Vipers, Hampshire, Southern Brave and now England, namechecked her when discussing the need for bowling all-rounders for the T20 World Cup.

Kemp is also a left-hander, something England have not had consistently in their top order since Lydia Greenway retired in 2016.

"I definitely have [improved as a batter]," Kemp said.

"I have always spoken to Lottie and she has always helped me a lot around my batting, especially game situations.

"I would like to think other people think it as well, but I have definitely grown into being an all-rounder."

Austin Reaves on his interaction with the ref: "I felt like I was respectful to all of them all night. A million times in the past, I've said way worse stuff. And when we were doing the whole tip ball and they were switching spots, I wanted to get on the other side because they had a guy on the other side, was just trying to keep an advantage. And he turned around and yelled in my face. I just thought it was disrespectful. The whole time that was going on over there, I don't think he said much to them. I know Ben (Taylor) stepped in and said something. But at the end of the day, we're grown men and I just didn't feel like he needed to yell in my face like that. I told him that. I wasn't disrespectful. I told him if I did that to him first, I would've gotten a tech. I feel like the only reason I didn't get a tech was because he knew he was in the wrong. I felt disrespected"

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Austin Reaves on referee yelling at him: I just didn't feel like he needed to do that. I felt disrespected

Joel Lorenzi: I want to call this the game within the game, but these teams versus this crew has been explosive for the entire game. Lakers were furious about the way that jump ball was officiated. Thunder snagged it, went down the floor and got a Cason Wallace 3 and Redick timeout.

x.com

I want to call this the game within the game, but these teams versus this crew has been explosive for the entire game. Lakers were furious about the way that jump ball was officiated. Thunder snagged it, went down the floor and got a Cason Wallace 3 and Redick timeout. pic.twitter.com/ZJaZWbkofX

— Joel Lorenzi (@JoelXLorenzi) May 8, 2026

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Lakers were furious about the way that jump ball was …

Dave McMenamin: Q: JJ Redick was irate about the officials, how was that a factor in the runs OKC put together? LeBron James: “We’re down 2-0.” Q: Redick said you get the worst whistle of any superstar he’s seen, why do you think that is? LeBron: “I don’t know”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Redick said you get the worst whistle of any superstar …

“I’ve been with him two years now,” Redick said of James. “There’s, again, the smaller guys, because they can be theatric, they typically draw more fouls than the bigger players that are built like LeBron. It’s hard for them, that he gets clobbered. He got clobbered again tonight a bunch. That’s not like a new thing. That’s not specific to this crew or this series. He gets fouled a lot. Doesn’t happen.” Redick later added: “They’re hard enough to play. You’ve got to be able to just call them if they foul, and they do foul.”

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “I’ve been with him two years now,” Redick said of …

James also spent stretches visibly frustrated with the officiating crew during the game. At one point during the game, that was audible to reporters from The Athletic sitting courtside, James directed an expletive-filled complaint toward Goble from the floor. “What the f— are you talking about?” James could be heard saying. “You f—ing suck, man.”

New York Times

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “What the f— are you talking about?” James could be …

Brandon Rahbar: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was asked if he got an explanation for his flagrant foul on Austin Reaves: "I didn't get an explanation. But I also didn't ask. I'm not going to be able to change the call, so... I didn't want to use it as a distraction."

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "I didn't get an explanation. But I also didn't ask. …

Oh No He Didn't: Shai on the physicality in the playoffs: "This time of year is the purest form of the sport"

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "This time of year is the purest form of the sport"

‪ Brandon Rahbar: Ajay Mitchell: "These opportunities have been great for me to see where I'm at as a player." He was then asked where he's at as a player. Mitchell says he thinks he's in a good spot and is excited to know he still needs to improve and get better.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ajay Mitchell: "These opportunities have been great …

Brandon Rahbar: Ajay Mitchell on Jared McCain: “He’s a crazy shooter. He’s a crazy scorer. It’s amazing to have him on the team.. Having him on the court is huge for us.”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Ajay Mitchell on Jared McCain: “He’s a crazy shooter. …

Brandon Rahbar: Chet Holmgren on Jared McCain: "Every time I see him get a touch, I think it's going in. I *know* it's going up..." SGA and Chet both got a good laugh out of that one. Chet added, "As he should." He says McCain "has been huge for us."

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Chet Holmgren on Jared McCain: "Every time I see him …

Dereck Lively: That’s the mental battle, just realizing that you can use your foot again. Then it comes with its own mental battles, like you’ve got to move your toes, and you’re like, ‘I can’t even move my toes. What do you mean?’ It’s using that part of your brain again that was turned off for so long. You definitely get a newfound respect for normal everyday life.”

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Then it comes with its own mental battles, like you’ve …

Myles Turner: There are different avenues to go. When I first got to the league, obviously, you’re making — you’re a lottery pick, so you make a lot of money very quickly. I didn’t take it as seriously as I should have. I was like, ‘Oh, someone else will handle it for me.’ You know what I mean? Like, ‘I’ll just pay a financial advisor,’ or, ‘My parents will do it,’ this and that. I realized right away, probably by my third or fourth year, that was the worst approach I could have taken, because all of a sudden, you start seeing money get moved around that may not have been moved around properly, or you start seeing money go to places where it shouldn’t have gone. All my vets were telling me, ‘Man, watch your money. Wake up every morning and check your account.’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.’ I wish I would have done that earlier, because I had an advisor I worked with earlier, and he kind of scammed me out of some bread. It wasn’t substantial, but it was enough to make me raise a brow. So after that, I started waking up, checking my accounts every single day, seeing exactly where the money was flowing.

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: All my vets were telling me, ‘Man, watch your money. …

Myles Turner: The best thing you can do is just put your money away and invest it, bro. If you have part of your paycheck — I’d probably say mine’s a little overkill — but I save like 70% of it, bro. Then the other 30%, that’s for you to do whatever you want with. Just keep saving. Keep saving, saving. Don’t let your money sit where it’s liquid. You need to put it away, where it’s working for you at all times, whether it’s the stock market, real estate, or land. Find something you’re passionate about, a niche, and good partners that will help you there. Just don’t let your money sit too liquid. Always let it work for you.”

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The best thing you can do is just put your money away …

A one-goal 37-save performance for a goaltender seems special, otherworldly, a dominant performance to lead a team to a victory. Yet, that’s not what it sounded like after the 4-1 victory for the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins, where Sergei Murashov led the team to a victory. He treated it like it was just another game. 

He’s been the Penguins' best player all season, and the team goes as he does. “You need your goalie to be your best player,” head coach Kirk MacDonald mentioned after the Game Four win, and Murashov was the best player in the Calder Cup series against the Hershey Bears, allowing only eight goals in four starts. Yet, it was just another set of games for the Pegnuins top prospect. His goaltending coach, Kain Tisi, felt the same way. He didn’t think Murashov played at another gear or did anything special. He just played his game, the dominant version that stood out all season. 

It speaks to his ability to play under pressure. The playoffs are a different beast with tighter, more intense games. Yet, Murashov treats every game the same and doesn’t play at another gear because it’s the big stage. It’s that mindset that makes him a great goaltender, not just for the Calder Cup Playoffs but for years to come, a goaltender the Pittsburgh Penguins hope they can build their future around. 

Murashov Stays Even-Keel

Murashov doesn’t think about the opponent. Sure, he gets the scouting report and studies the other team’s tendencies but he isn’t focused on the team in front of him. The Bears have a lot of skill in their forward unit, notably a top six with NHL-caliber prospects. They didn’t change the way Murashov played, or as he puts it, “it’s not about who is in front of you, it’s about who is with you.” 

Usually, the playoffs are when players flip a switch, and for goaltenders, they play at another level to take over a series. It’s how Clay Stevenson played on the other end, taking things up a notch to make every game close. Murashov processes the playoff games the same way he handled regular-season games. 

Murashov’s ability to remain calm under pressure also shows how, despite being a 22-year-old prospect, he’s ahead of schedule. “He’s very mature the way he approaches the game,” MacDonald added after Game Four. For goaltenders, it’s about maturing into someone who can handle every situation, handling what is thrown at them, and making the most of what’s out of their control. Murashov has a mindset to make the next step to the NHL and play at a high level in the playoffs. 

On top of that, it’s all about finding ways to improve. Murashov entered the season hoping to become a complete goaltender. “He’s always eager to learn more, to learn about himself, about hockey, it’s not specific to hockey all the time. How he processes it all is a strength to him; he’s quick to process things,” Tisi noted in a conversation with The Hockey News in March. Fast forward to a series victory, and Murashov is echoing that sentiment. “It’s not about what you are doing, it’s about who you are becoming in this league,” he mentioned after the series-clinching win. 

What Makes Him Great

With Murashov, or any goaltender for that matter, there’s the mental game and the physical one. Murashov is an athletic goaltender, someone who can make the big save or the athletic one to frustrate offenses. Then, there’s the mental part of the game, which puts him in positions to succeed. 

While he’s an athletic goaltender, he rarely makes a highlight save because he’s usually in the right position. He saves the initial shot by being positionally sound, relieving both him and the team of plenty of headaches. 

Murashov can also adapt to the situation and mentally prepare for a big game. “The perspective he has, how mindful he is, how kind, his sense of humor but also how he can turn a switch from the nice, kind, thoughtful person to the dog on the ice, the killer. He can turn that switch on,” Tisi noted earlier in the season. He can flip that switch and become that elite goaltender. He can be the killer, and this season, that killer made him a goaltender who could handle the AHL's toughness. The Bears tried to get to his crease and win physical puck battles. He stood his ground and still controlled the series. 

It’s this set of skills that makes it hard to compare him to any type of goaltender in the NHL. The goaltender who comes to mind is Jeremy Swayman; it’s the name one scout thought of when watching him play, and his overall demeanor. But, Murashov has stretches of great goaltending around the league. “The hockey IQ of a Bobrovsky. The intensity and the confidence of a Vasilevskiy,” Tisi stated when asked which goaltenders come to mind, two Russians with plenty of success in the playoffs. They had the IQ and preparation to win on the big stage, and Murashov already has it at a young age.

Murashov is Playing Well & So is the Team in Front Of Him 

Murashov was the star of the series. However, the matchup against the Bears highlighted the entire Wilkes-Barre Scranton group. They don’t have the star power at the top that the Bears have. Instead, they have the depth and put it on display from all four forward lines scoring to every defense pair stepping up. 

“The players go out and execute on a daily basis, and it starts with our leadership group that’s been outstanding all year,” MacDonald added after the latest game. That leadership group includes veterans who have been around the AHL and the NHL, whom most teams give up on but the Penguins gave a shot. 

Rafael Harvey-Pinard bounced around before signing with the Penguins ahead of the 2025-26 season. He became a top-line winger who mentored the younger players, allowing Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen to take a step forward. Tristan Broz is only in his second AHL season but at 23, he’s become a leader in the room and a driver of the offense. “Broz carried that puck and transferred it and moved his feet through the neutral zone, and that’s the skill that’s going to help him get to the next level,” MacDonald noted after the game on the center who had four assists in the series and set up the third goal of Game Four, a knockout punch to end the series. 

This is a group that can go on a Calder Cup run and has a tight-knit group both on and off the ice. “They have a lot of fun! Maybe too much fun,” MacDonald mentioned about the Penguins earlier in the season. When Murashov was asked about the team, he couldn’t praise them enough. “If I would write a book at some point in my life this year, I would be writing it with a nice smile. It’s so fun coming to the rink. It’s great to overcome all the challenges together. We stick together and just keep going. I’m blessed to play with these guys," he stated to wrap up his postgame presser and cap off a good night for the Penguins AHL team. 

Who does Craig Button think that the San Jose Sharks should pick at No. 2?

00:04:32 Button is on the hot seat from the first question!

If the Toronto Maple Leafs pass on Gavin McKenna, would Button take Chase Reid over McKenna?

Is Reid his clear-cut top defenseman of the 2026 Draft over Keaton Verhoeff, Carson Carels, Alberts Smits, and Daxon Rudolph?

Is Ivar Stenberg vs. Caleb Malhotra a discussion? Could Malhotra make sense for the Sharks?

00:27:44 Why is Reid so exciting to Button?

Would Button trade the No. 2 pick for a star NHL defenseman?

Button shares a possible target for the San Jose Sharks’ No. 19 or 20 pick.

What did Button think of Michael Misa and Sam Dickinson’s rookie seasons? Why is he high on Leo Sahlin Wallenius and Eric Pohlkamp?

00:46:09 Dan Boyle and Zubair Jeewanjee jump on to talk about the playoffs! Why has Boyle been so impressed by Quinn Hughes?

What did he think about the Norris Trophy voting? Boyle has no issue with Evan Bouchard getting passed up. He also shares his thoughts about potential UFA target Darren Raddysh.

01:11:27 Would we trade the No. 2 pick for Werenski?

01:32:22 We chat about the Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews to the San Jose Sharks speculation.

01:57:00 Our thoughts on how Toronto Sun reporter Steve Simmons approached the John Chayka press conference. Sheng Peng also recalls making Macklin Celebrini walk off in a post-game press conference this season and asking David Quinn about his job status three years ago.

Who are realistic free agency or trade targets on defense for the San Jose Sharks this off-season? Keegan McNally wrote a great article about it recently!

02:27:04 Peng gives a more concise explanation for why he didn’t vote Celebrini No. 1 for the Hart Trophy.

02:39:01 Finally, who do we think the Sharks should pick at No. 2?

Subscribe to the San Jose Hockey Now YouTube channel!

Listen to the San Jose Hockey Now Podcast — it’s a new link — on Apple Podcasts and Spotify and more.

The post Stenberg or Reid? Button on Who San Jose Sharks Should Draft | Boyle on Signing Raddysh appeared first on San Jose Hockey Now.

Borussia Dortmund welcome Eintracht Frankfurt on Friday for their Bundesliga matchday 33 fixture.

This will be Dortmund’s final home game of the season, and they will be eager to end it on a high by picking up all three points.

Dortmund currently sit second with 67 points and has already qualified for the Champions League. However, their recent performances have been shaky, with three defeats in their last four matches. Their latest game ended in a 1-0 loss to Borussia Monchengladbach, where they struggled to create chances in attack. Despite this dip in form, a win in this match would guarantee them the runners-up spot with one game still to play.

Borussia Dortmund team news

In terms of team news, Emre Can remains out with a long-term ACL injury. Ramy Bensebaini is also expected to miss the rest of the season due to a serious ankle problem.

Dortmund’s attacking options are slightly weakened as Karim Adeyemi is unavailable. Niklas Sule is likely to miss out as well, while Felix Nmecha remains doubtful as he works his way back to full fitness.

Sule will be assessed before kickoff, although he has already confirmed he will retire at the end of the season at the age of 30.

Julian Brandt and Samuele Inacio featured in the last match, but changes are expected, with Maximilian Beier pushing for a place in the starting lineup.

Borussia Dortmund predicted lineup

Possible Borussia Dortmund starting XI: Kobel; Reggiani, Anton, Schlotterbeck; Ryerson, Sabitzer, Bellingham, Svensson; Brandt, Beier; Guirassy

When will the match kick off?

The match will kick off at 7:30pm BST on Friday, 8th May.

How to watch Borussia Dortmund vs Eintracht Frankfurt?

Fans in the UK can watch the match for free via BBC iPlayer, the BBC Sport website, and the BBC Sport app. It will also be available on the official Bundesliga app.

Read Also – Emery insists Aston Villa won’t be failures without Europa glory

See More – Casemiro champions Carrick for permanent Man United job

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Matthew Liberatore gave the St. Louis Cardinals the strong start they needed to begin their west coast swing as his nasty curveball and a power surge from Alec Burleson made the difference in a victory over the San Diego Padres 2-1 late Thursday night.

Matthew Liberatore looked both shaky and nasty in the bottom of the first inning. After getting the first two outs, he walked Manny Machado. Fernando Tatis Jr. singled to left moving Machado to second and Xander Bogaerts singled to right scoring Machado and giving the Padres a 1-0 lead.

The St. Louis Cardinals bats were quiet until the top of the 4th inning when Alec Burleson turned on a Michael King pitch and jacked it over the right field wall with an impressive exit velocity of 111 mph tying the game 1-1.

After a 1st inning where he looked vulnerable, Matthew Liberatore shut the Padres down giving the Cardinals six strong innings only allowing the 1 earned run on only 3 hits with 6 strikeout and 3 walks. Michael King was equally impressive for San Diego as he also pitched a solid six innings allowing only 1 hit, but that one hit was the one from Burleson that left the park.

The Cardinals would take the lead in the top of the 7th inning when Jordan Walker missed a home run by maybe a foot crushing a line drive off of the left field wall for a double. He then scored when Masyn Winn hit ball down the right field line to a helpless-looking Nick Castellanos who stumbled toward the ball as it bounced past him and continued to the right field wall as Walker scored and Winn cruised into third base giving St. Louis a 2-1 lead.

George Soriano entered the game in the bottom of the 7th inning giving up an infield single to Tatis Jr, but he was thrown out by Pedro Pagés even though the tag by JJ Wetherholt was unsuccessfully challenged by the Padres. That caught stealing muted any potential Padres threat in the 7th inning.

The bottom of the 8th inning belonged to JoJo Romero. He had no problems with Ty France, Nick Castellanos or Rodolpho Duran shutting the Padres down 1-2-3. That helped the Cardinals from having to deal with super-reliever Mason Miller as San Diego brought in Jason Adam to handle the top of the 9th inning as they still trailed 2-1. He was greeted by Jordan Walker who hit a laser shot into left center that he turned into a hustle double. Nolan Gorman then worked Adam for a 9-pitch walk. Yes, miracles do happen. Unfortunately, Masyn Winn was unable to get a sufficient bunt down as the Padres were able to get the force at third base for the first out. Nathan Church hit a weak fly to left field for out number 2 with neither runner being able to advance. Pedro Pagés was retired for the final out shutting down the Cardinals 8th inning threat.

Riley O’Brien came in to close out the Padres in the bottom of the 9th inning. He was tasked with facing the top of the San Diego lineup. He quickly retired Merrill on a weak groundout to JJ Wetherholt. Miguel Andujar struck out and failed to use the ABS challenge that probably wouldn’t have saved him anyway. Manny Machado grounded out to Masyn Winn to end the game giving the Cardinals a tight victory.

The St. Louis Cardinals will send Michael McGreevy to the mound for Friday night’s contest against Griffin Canning. First pitch is scheduled for 8:45pm central time and will be an Apple TV exclusive so finding a free 7-day trial is your friend.

Oklahoma City stays unbeaten with victory over Lakers originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder continued their dominant playoff run Thursday night with a convincing 125-107 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series.

With the win, Oklahoma City now holds a commanding 2-0 series lead as the matchup shifts to Los Angeles for Game 3 on Saturday. The Thunder remain undefeated in this year’s postseason after capturing the NBA title last season, and they continue to show why many consider them the league’s most complete team.

Balanced scoring once again powered Oklahoma City’s offense. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren each scored 22 points, while rising guard Ajay Mitchell contributed 20 points in an efficient performance. The Thunder consistently attacked the Lakers in transition and controlled the pace throughout much of the game.

 Thunder bench dominates 

However, one of the biggest differences came from Oklahoma City’s bench production. The Thunder reserves overwhelmed Los Angeles’ second unit 48-18, providing critical energy and scoring depth that the Lakers could not match. Rookie Jared McCain sparked the bench with 18 points, while Cason Wallace added 12 points and strong perimeter defense.

Despite the final score, the game highlighted just how deep Oklahoma City has become. The Thunder finished with an 18-point victory, yet they were only plus-five with Gilgeous-Alexander on the floor. That statistic reflects the team’s ability to dominate even when their superstar is resting, a major advantage during a long playoff run.

For Los Angeles, Austin Reaves led the way with 31 points, continuing his strong postseason play. LeBron James added 23 points, but the Lakers struggled defensively and failed to contain Oklahoma City’s balanced attack.

Now facing a 2-0 deficit, the Lakers return home needing a strong response to avoid falling deeper behind against a Thunder team that appears to be gaining momentum with every game.

Where to watch The D2 Summit: Schedule, channel, live stream for 2026 cheer competition originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Summit and Dance Summit Championships are all wrapped up, but now it's time to make space for The D2 Summit, which comes to Disney World this weekend.

Over a decade ago, American Cheer Power created a National Small Program Association (NSPA) to help build up the thousands of small programs across the nation. In 2015, Varsity All Star expanded the reach of The Summit and The Dance Summit by creating The D2 Summit, exclusively for programs with 125 athletes or less. 

The D2 Summit serves as the pinnacle of the season for smaller programs, with athletes and teams competing across several age and division groups, from junior to senior, as well as small, flex and co-ed. 

You won't want to miss out on this event.

Here's everything you need to know about The D2 Summit, including TV channel and streaming options for the 2026 cheer competition. 

Where to watch The D2 Summit: TV channel, live stream

• TV channel: N/A
• Live stream: Varsity TV

The 2026 D2 Summit Championship will not be broadcast on traditional television. Instead, fans can stream the action on Varsity TV.

A Varsity TV subscription gives cheer and dance fans access to live streams of numerous major competitions, plus event replays and FloSports Originals.

The D2 Summit 2026 schedule

For a look at The D2 Summit's block performance schedule for each day, click here.

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from UAE: TV channel, live stream and start time details originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test series 2026, 1st Test begins on May 8 in Dhaka.
• The game will be played in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle 2025-27.
• Bangladesh defeated Pakistan in their previous Test series 2-0 in 2024.

Start date of BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026

Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test match 2026 will start on Friday, May 8, 2026.

The matches will be played as part of the current ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. At present, Bangladesh stands eighth in the nine-nation league table, while Pakistan is ranked fifth after drawing a series 1-1 against South Africa at home earlier.

The last time Bangladesh and Pakistan locked horns in a Test series was in October 2024, during which Bangladesh defeated Pakistan 2-0.

As both nations look to score early points in the ICC WTC, the BAN vs PAK 1st Test match could lay down the foundation for an exciting duel across two Tests.

MORE:Clarke reveals why MS Dhoni shouldn't retire soon

Start time of BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 in UAE

The Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test match will begin at the following times in the UAE and local time (BST)*:

Fans can tune in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for the toss.

*BST - Bangladesh Standard Time

Venue for BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026

The Bangladesh vs. Pakistan 1st Test match will be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

MORE:What happens if an IPL match is cancelled due to rain? Rules and refund details

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from the UAE

Here's how fans in the UAE can watch the Bangladesh vs. Pakistan 1st Test match live:

• TV channel: CricLife
• Live stream: StarzPlay

In the UAE, fans can watch the match live on TV on CricLife, while live streaming will be available on StarzPlay.

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from Bangladesh

• TV channel: T Sports, Nagorik TV
• Live stream: Tapmad

In Bangladesh, fans can watch Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test 2026 live on T Sports and Nagorik TV, while live streaming will be available on Tapmad.

MORE:Did Chahal vape on a flight? Arshdeep allegedly crops viral video

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from India

• TV channel: NA
• Live stream: FanCode

In India, the Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test series 2026 is not available on traditional TV, but fans can live stream the action on FanCode app and website.

BAN vs PAK 2026 Test series schedule

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

The final day of Matchday 4 of the Copa Libertadores was full of excitement, goals, and canceled matches.

The star of the day

Mirassol sealed a perfect group stage campaign at home after beating LDU Quito 2-0. The Brazilian side reached a 100% home record and will fight to finish top of Group G.

The surprise of the round

Cerro Porteño stunned Cartagena and beat Junior de Barranquilla 1-0, a team that has now been mathematically eliminated. More was expected from the Colombians, the current champions of their country. 

The biggest disappointment of the day

The highly anticipated clash between Independiente Medellín and Flamengo was canceled due to a pitch invasion by the home ultras. DIM fans, in a violent protest against the club’s board, left behind a disgraceful scene that will surely lead to harsh disciplinary sanctions for their team.

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

Law Murray: The Oklahoma City Thunder are 6-0 vs the Los Angeles Lakers this season 2-0 in the 2026 Western Conference semifinals Final score: Lakers 107, OKC 125

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Thunder crush Lakers again

In the end, Thomas managed just 15.6 points in an injury-marred campaign and got waived by Brooklyn. He got picked up by Milwaukee, but cut loose there as well. While he flashed the ability to get buckets, his shortcomings in terms of defense, playmaking, and — ultimately — self-awareness see him now unemployed. “I know he was frustrated about the contract the year before, and the fact that Brooklyn didn’t really pay him how he wanted,” Porter said. “He’s thinking talent-wise, he’s thinking as good as Austin Reaves, he’s as good as Jalen Green, he’s as good as this guy or that guy, and they’re getting paid $100 million contracts. So I understand that part. But I knew when he left Brooklyn, I’m like, man, over there in Milwaukee he better change a couple of these things or else it’s going to be tough for him. “And when he first got there, they were raving about him because he had a few good games. Doc Rivers was complimenting him and everything. And then I’m sure he had a bad game and kind of went back into his shell a little bit. It can come off like he has an attitude, but really that’s just him. And then I think from there it was downhill. But when it comes to being a basketball player and a talent, he’s up there with the best of them.”

New York Post

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Michael Porter Jr on Cam Thomas: He thinks he's as good as Austin Reaves and Jalen Green and they're getting $100 million contracts

‪However, Donovan Mitchell continued to express confidence in his backcourt mate on Thursday night, repeating that he believed Harden and the Cavs would "figure it out." "He's James Harden; we're not sitting here worried," Mitchell said Thursday night, after snapping out of his own scoring slump with 31 points. "He's going to figure this out."

ESPN.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Donovan Mitchell: 'He's James Harden; we're not sitting here worried'

The Cavs were outscored by 15 points when Harden was on the floor Thursday, the worst plus/minus of any player who appeared in Game 2. "Just missing shots," Harden said. "Second half, I think I took two shots, but the ball was moving. We're getting better shots. So just picking and choosing my spots and figuring out what works, what doesn't work, for the betterment of the team."

ESPN.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "Just missing shots," Harden said. "Second half, I …

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from Pakistan: TV channel, live stream and start time details originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test 2026 begins on May 8 at Dhaka.
• The game forms part of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship period.
• Pakistan are on tour of Bangladesh for a two-match Test series.

Start date of BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026

Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test 2026 begins on Friday, May 8, 2026.

This series is being played under the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), in which Bangladesh is ranked eighth among nine countries. As for Pakistan, it currently stands fifth following a 1-1 tie with South Africa at home in last year's series.

In the previous series between the two teams in Test cricket, Bangladesh emerged victorious, taking 2-0 against Pakistan in October 2024.

As both teams try to secure points in the WTC from the very beginning, the BAN vs PAK 1st Test match will be crucial for the series.

MORE:Who will be India's captain in the Ireland T20I series?

Start time of BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 in Pakistan

The Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test match will begin at the following times in Pakistan and local time (BST)* across the five scheduled days:

Fans can tune in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for the toss.

*BST - Bangladesh Standard Time

Venue for BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026

The Bangladesh vs. Pakistan 1st Test match will be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

MORE:IPL 2026 schedule: Fixtures and full list of matches

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from Pakistan

Here's how fans in Pakistan can watch the Bangladesh vs. Pakistan 1st Test match live:

• TV channel: PTV Sports
• Live stream: Tapmad

In Pakistan, fans can catch the live telecast on PTV Sports, with live streaming available on Tapmad.

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from Bangladesh

• TV channel: T Sports, Nagorik TV
• Live stream: Tapmad

In Bangladesh, fans can watch Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test 2026 live on T Sports and Nagorik TV, while live streaming will be available on Tapmad.

MORE:Explained: Why IPL 2026 final was shifted from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad

How to watch BAN vs PAK 1st Test match 2026 from India

• TV channel: NA
• Live stream: FanCode

In India, the Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test series 2026 is not available on traditional TV, but fans can live stream the action on FanCode app and website.

BAN vs PAK 2026 Test series schedule

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.

Here’s a recap of Thursday’s 2A state tournament winners’ bracket from games at BYU.

San Juan 13 Beaver 8

No. 4 San Juan outlasted top-seeded Beaver in an offensive heavy game, pulling away in the latter stages to grab a 13-8 victory to move on to the semifinals of the 2A state tournament.

The offensive production was spread out throughout the San Juan lineup, with the team being led by a strong overall performance by Kreed Herring, who had three RBIs at the plate to go along with seven strikeouts on the mound.

“This team is just a resilient bunch,” said San Juan head coach Jens Nielson. “We just felt good, you know, and these guys, we have a really strong senior group and this team just loves each other.

“That exemplifies and exudes to the rest of the group, and the preparation, they just prepared on their own. They’re taking reps on their own in batting cages. They’re taking extra reps. Their mind is just, they’re having fun. This is, like, this is a group that we can’t get too serious with because they just play better loose.”

Both teams came out swinging to start the game. San Juan scored two runs in the top of the first inning and Beaver immediately answered in the bottom half of the inning with four runs of its own.

Beaver had the lead at 7-5 after three innings, but San Juan scored eight runs in the following three innings, while limiting Beaver to just a single run the rest of the way.

A 2-run triple by Grady Lacy in the fifth inning followed by a bases clearing double by Jagger Nieves later in the frame helped break the game open, creating some much-needed breathing room.

Nielson could not have been more pleased with what he saw out of his team as the game progressed.

“We’re exceptionally pleased with the way the latter innings turned out,” he said. “We threw two freshmen. Our pitchers did a good job during the game and we kind of know the Beavers have big swingers.

Nielson believes that if his team is going to last two more games to claim the 2A state title, it will need to continue doing what it’s done all year.

“Just never give up, you know, just go into the end,” he said. “Keep grinding it out, put the ball in play, trust our defense. ...If we make the routine plays and limit it to about two to three errors a game, we put the ball in play and we throw a strike in the first two pitches, then we’re good to go.”

Kanab 2 Gunnison Valley 0

Kanab scored just two runs on five hits in its 2A playoff game against Gunnison Valley Thursday, but that was all the Cowboys needed.

Walker Baird threw a 1-hitter on the mound and knocked in a run at the plate with an RBI single to help will his team to a 2-0 victory.

While Kanab head coach Craig Brinkerhoff was happy overall with the win, he knows his team needs to get back to being who it is, which is producing at the plate as well as on the mound and out in the field.

“Walker did a great job on the mound for us today,” Brinkerhoff said. “He threw a lot of strikes, competed in his own course. That’s what we expected out of him today, and he’s done that all year, so nothing’s changed there.

“Hats off to him for throwing that game for us. On the hitting side, we got to clean some things up. We got to execute some bunts to and start hitting the ball more.”

Kanab scored its first run of the game in the third inning on a double down the line to make it a 1-0 ballgame. That remained the score until the bottom of the fifth inning, when Baird single to right field to double the lead.

“With Walker, I mean, he’s got nothing but confidence and he is a very resilient kid. Very resilient,” Brinkerhoff said. “He never gets rattled. He’s nothing but confidence, and he just wants to win. That’s what I love about him.”

Brinkerhoff believes that after getting the first playoff game out of the way under the big lights, his team will get back to its dominant offensive ways at the plate.

“I know they had a little bit of jitters being on the bigger field and they’re excited to be here, but I think we’re gonna get settled down and just to slow things down again,” said Brinkerhoff.

“I think going into tomorrow, I expect our guys to be a little more focused. Now they know what they can expect again, get back on it. I think tomorrow we’ll see a lot more of who we are again.”

In the 1-loss elimination bracket, No. 5 South Sevier shut out No. 9 North Sevier 5-0 and will face Gunnision Valley. In the other game in the elimination bracket, American Leadership Academy got past Parowan in a low scoring affair 1-0. As its reward, it will face Beaver next.

It has been said that it is difficult to play down in Mexico and LAFC and Nashville found that out the hard way. Both MLS teams lost their games against Liga MX as they found it difficult to compete against teams when the playing field is even. Now Tigres and Toluca will face off against each other in the final scheduled for later this month as the MLS realizes that the gap between themselves and Liga MX isn’t as small as they thought. 

Tigres 1 – 0 Nashville (2 – 0 aggregate) 

Nashville traveled down to Nuevo León to face Tigres in the second leg of the semifinals where they still had a chance to advance to the final. They were only down by one goal so it was possible to pull out the win. The Boys in Gold were able to hold on for the majority of the match as Tigres didn’t fully dominate the game. The issue was that the visitors were unable to finish their chances while Tigres did. Angel Correa made his way into the box on the left side of the field as he easily got past the Nashville defender. The Argentinian could have taken the shot himself but he opted to pass to Juan Brunetta who made his way unmarked into the box. Brunetta wasn’t the only player who was open as both Juan Vigón and Diego Lainez were open up the middle and right side of the field. The Nashville defenders were so focused on the ball that they weren’t watching their mark. Correa could have passed the ball to any of his teammates but he opted for Brunetta who did not waste his chance. Goalkeeper Brian Schwake was rightfully angry at his defenders for their lack of concentration. After their goal Tigres still had chances to double their lead but they did not finish their chances. They slowed down the game and did just enough to be able to keep Nashville from scoring. Now Tigres have the opportunity to win just their second Concacaf Champions trophy and in the process allow club legend André-Pierre Gignac end his illustrious career with another trophy.

Toluca 4 – 0 LAFC (5 – 2 aggregate)  

LAFC traveled to Toluca on a 2-1 advantage with one foot in the door of the final. All they had to do was maintain this scoreline in a stadium that is nicknamed “el Infierno/Hell” and that is what Toluca put them through. The first half ended in a scoreless draw but not because the visitors outplayed the home side but because Toluca was unable to finish any of their chances. They had 18 shots with seven of them being on target but none of those went in. Meanwhile LAFC only had four shots with one on target. The stats were lopsided and the visitors were going to need to make changes in the second half if they wanted to win but that was not the case. All four goals came in the second half with the first in the form of a penalty in the 49th minute. The second goal came 10 minutes later with a stunner from outside the box. This left the visitors with 30 minutes left to level the game and win it. Unfortunately that did not happen as Toluca put the nail in the coffin in added time with a brace from Paulinho. LAFC was no match for Toluca as their forwards were unable to score any goals and their defense crumbled under the Toluca pressure. Now Toluca have the opportunity to win their third Concacaf Champions Cup and to show the world that they can dominate on the international stage. 

Millions of football fans in India and China face uncertainty over whether or not the World Cup will be shown in their countries as broadcasters have yet to reach deals with football's governing body, Fifa.

It is unusual for TV rights deals to not be agreed for an event of this scale with just weeks to go before it is due to start. Such agreements are typically settled months, if not years, before the opening ceremony.

Local media in both countries have said Fifa and broadcasters are still wrangling over the cost of showing the games.

Fifa told the the BBC that talks in China and India "are ongoing and must remain confidential at this stage", without commenting on the fees involved.

A total of 180 territories have now completed deals with Fifa, the global football organisation said.

But a handful have yet to secure the rights to broadcast the 2026 World Cup, including India and China - which together account for around a third of the world's population.

Fifa's initial offer to state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) for rights to the tournament was reportedly as high as $300m (£220m).

Fifa has now lowered the price to between $120m and $150m, according to state-controlled newspaper Beijing Daily. But that is still more than double CCTV's budget for the event, the paper said.

Beijing Daily said that as China has not qualified for the tournament there would be less interest in the event amongst football fans in the country.

The paper also noted that the time difference between China and North America means that many high-profile games will be played in the early hours of the morning for Chinese fans.

Deals between China and Fifa were struck far earlier for recent World Cups.

Fifa announced in November 2017 that it had reached an exclusive agreement with CCTV to broadcast both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

While an agreement has not yet been struck between Fifa and an Indian broadcaster, local media reported this week that a deal was likely to be announced soon.

Let the record show the Oklahoma City Thunder were in a brief bit of trouble in Game 2 on Thursday, before winning 125-107 against the Los Angeles Lakers.

With 10:34 remaining in the third quarter, a single play saw Shai Gilgeous-Alexander pick up his fourth foul, Alex Caruso pick up a technical foul and Austin Reaves get three free throws. He made all three, giving the Lakers a five-point lead and the ball while Gilgeous-Alexander had to sub out. That qualifies as trouble, by Oklahoma City standards.

And then the Thunder, with their remaining assortment of weapons, won the game.

Despite getting nothing from the reigning MVP and Finals MVP for the remaining 10-and-a-half minutes of the third quarter, the Thunder ripped off a 21-5 run to take the lead for good. They now lead the Western Conference semifinal series 2-0 as it moves to Los Angeles.

The Lakers did recover enough to make it a five-point game in the fourth quarter, but the OKC defense remains a nightmare to come back against. There was palpable frustration for the Lakers throughout the fourth quarter, arguing with the officials on several occasions.

That continued after the final buzzer, when Reaves was seen leading an airing of grievances with the officials.

Limiting Gilgeous-Alexander to 22 points should be a recipe for success against the Lakers. They have held him to 40 total across two games, the first time that’s happened all season (his previous low across two games: 45 points).

And yet, they are now 0-2 to show for it. In Game 2, it was because Chet Holmgren had 22 points on 11 shots, Ajay Mitchell had 20 points on 12 shots and Jared McCain had 18 points on 11 shots. It’s an unreasonable amount of talent, and the Lakers are still looking for a way to punch through after going 0-4 against them in regular season.

With Luka Dončić reportedly unlikely to return during this series, it’s about time for another brainstorming session. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday at Crypto.com Arena (8:30 p.m. ET, ABC).

Former Knicks forward, NBA champion retires after $90 million career originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

While every player's NBA journey is different, they all end the same way.

Whether it’s after five years or 15 years, retirement is inevitable for every contributor in the big leagues, whether they like it or not. In a former New York Knicks forward and NBA champion’s case, it was time to move on from the pros after a lengthy 10+ year career that ended with $90 million in total earnings. 

“20 years being my job but 40 plus years of not being able to fathom doing anything other than it,” P.J. Tucker wrote on Instagram Thursday night. “So here’s to retiring from the NBA… because I will NEVER stop ballin.” 

After spending one year with the Toronto Raptors to begin his NBA career, Tucker took his talents overseas before ultimately returning to the U.S. in 2012 to compete with the Phoenix Suns.

Following a five-year stint with the Suns, Tucker enjoyed stints with the Toronto Raptors and Houston Rockets before winning his first and only NBA championship with the Giannis Antetokounmpo-led Milwaukee Bucks in 2021. 

The Texas product closed out his career with the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Knicks in the early to mid-2020s.

Known for his tenacious individual defense and ability to deliver in corner three situations, Tucker was unquestionably a solid role player in the most competitive basketball league in the world for quite some time. 

The 41-year-old averaged 6.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 steals for his career, shooting 42.5% from the field and 36.6% from downtown. It’s on to bigger and better things for Tucker now.

More NBA news:

• Lakers urged to trade $165 million ex-Mavericks superstar after recent injury concerns

• Warriors-Nuggets trade pitch sends $207 million All-Star, NBA champion to Golden State

• Lakers-Wizards trade pitch sends $186 million 10-time All-Star, NBA champion back to Los Angeles

The San Francisco 49ers have a quarterback battle set to get underway Friday when they open their rookie minicamp.

Second-year quarterback Kurtis Rourke, who the 49ers selected in the seventh round of the 2025 draft, will participate in the session according to quarterbacks coach Klay Kubiak. Per the Athletic's Matt Barrows, Kubiak on Thursday told reporters Rourke is competing to be the team's third signal caller.

"Love the arm talent," Kubiak said via Barrows. "He's a heck of a thrower."

Rourke missed virtually all of his rookie year while recovering from offseason ACL surgery. He had his practice window opened at the end of the season, but he was never activated off the Non-Football Injury list. This will be his first real chance to compete for a job on an NFL roster.

With Brock Purdy and Mac Jones locked into the top two spots on the depth chart, Rourke will be competing with Adrian Martinez for the third QB job. That spot could be on the practice squad since the 49ers don't always carry three QBs on the 53-man roster.

There's another element at play here, though.

Jones wasn't traded this offseason, but it's not out of the realm of possibility that he could be dealt either before the regular season begins or at the trade deadline in November. Injuries happen and teams get desperate which could crank Jones' value up far enough that San Francisco would be willing to part ways with him.

In that event the 49ers would need a player they felt good about slotting into the backup QB job. While the third QB battle is primarily for a position that'll be inactive on game days, it will also be for a position that would become one of the most important on the team if Jones is dealt.

Nothing will be decided during rookie minicamp, but this is a huge opportunity for Rourke to prove he's healthy and capable of stepping into a role during his first healthy season as a pro.

More 49ers: 49ers investor preparing to try and buy biggest rival

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers roster: QB Kurtis Rourke to participate in rookie minicamp

Donovan Mitchell admits he was hypocritical to complain about the free-throw disparity originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are down 2-0 after a 107-97 loss to the Detroit Pistons. It was yet another unconvincing performance by Kenny Atkinson's Cavs, especially with Evan Mobley's lack of rebounds.

Despite that, it seems Donovan Mitchell is taking accountability. He had a great game with 31 points, including seven made free throws. However, Mitchell feels he was a bit hypocritical with his recent complaints about the referees, especially since he felt he could have driven more.

Donovan Mitchell admits hypocrisy after recent officiating comments

After Game 1, Mitchell was displeased with the referees. He felt they were not giving him enough calls, especially since he was driving into the paint and drawing contact. In Game 2, Mitchell played much better, but he felt a bit hypocritical.

Mitchell had 31 points, and seven of them were from free throws. However, he felt he could have had more if he had attacked the paint more. Instead, he settled for jump shots and made a lot of them, but he could have won the game for Cleveland by being more aggressive.=

MORE: Donovan Mitchell's harsh message for the referees after Game 1

For the longest time, NBA fans have grown accustomed to seeing Mitchell drive into the paint and finish with athletic layups or dunks. If he could not finish, he would draw a foul with his aggression and basketball IQ.

Unfortunately, that did not happen in Game 2, which he admits was a missed opportunity. As the series heads to Cleveland, Mitchell will want to play much better at home than he did on the road.

"I mean, I can't complain about fouls and then not go to the rim," Mitchell said about how he lacks aggression into getting into the paint.

Mitchell should be ready to redeem himself in Games 3 and 4 in Cleveland. It will be tough to beat a Pistons team with momentum, but Mitchell and the rest of the Cavaliers can bounce back and win this series.

More NBA news:

• Kenny Atkinson was displeased with the Cavaliers' lack of energy in Game 1
• The gamble that James Harden took in Game 2, but did not work out
• The final score for the Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2
• Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen's defense of Evan Mobley's rebounding in Game 2
• The reason behind Dean Wade playing more minutes than some younger players before

The Minnesota Vikings find themselves in the bottom third of the league following the 2026 NFL Draft, landing at No. 24 in ESPN's latest post-draft power rankings.

Way-too-early ranking: 23

Most improved position: Quarterback

The Vikings did some good work at defensive tackle in the draft, but they had long ago accomplished the most important task of the offseason by building a more competitive QB room. Kyler Murray was the best quarterback available this offseason, and he will cost the Vikings only $1.3 million while the Cardinals pay the remainder of his $37.6 million salary.

Instead of simply hoping J.J. McCarthy will take the necessary steps forward, the Vikings have a proven veteran with arguably higher upside in Murray. And if it doesn't work out, the Vikings brought back Carson Wentz to ensure the position will have a higher floor than it did last season. -- Kevin Seifert

The ranking underscores a franchise still navigating a transition, particularly at quarterback, where long-term stability remains uncertain despite having three top-12 picks at the position. While the Vikings added talent in the draft, the overall roster outlook suggests a team still building rather than contending in the immediate future. Minnesota's draft class brought in several intriguing pieces, particularly on defense with first-round pick Caleb Banks and third-round pick Domonique Orange, and along the offensive line with third-round pick Caleb Tiernan, but the lack of a clear franchise quarterback continues to shape the team’s ceiling. Until that position is solidified, the Vikings are likely to hover in the middle to lower tiers of the league rankings.

Head coach Kevin O’Connell will be tasked with maximizing a roster that still features high-end talent at the skill positions, but the team has been plagued by inconsistency in recent seasons. If the Vikings can find stability under center and get immediate contributions from their rookie class, they could outperform expectations.

For now, ESPN’s No. 24 ranking reflects a team with potential, but one that still has significant questions to answer before climbing back into playoff contention.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings land at No. 24 in ESPN’s post-draft rankings

The 2026 NFL Draft class showed emphasis on the defensive side of the ball for the Minnesota Vikings, as their first three picks were on defense, and five of their nine total picks resided on defense. Caleb Banks, Jake Golday, and Domonique Orange all have a chance to play a major role in their rookie season, but could one of them be a candidate for a Rookie of the Year award?

According to Benjamin Solak of ESPN, not just one, but two Vikings defenders have a chance to take home hardware at the end of the season. Solak named Banks and Golday as players who could win Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Solak named Banks as a long shot and Golday as a longer shot.

Should Banks enter year one with a clean bill of health, he should be viewed as one of the favorites, as he is a seamless fit for this Brian Flores defense. Golday could be a rotational piece early, but should he work his way into a starting spot, there's a chance he puts up the stats to warrant the award.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Caleb Banks and Jake Golday mentioned in Rookie of the Year talks

Upon playing in Game 2 of the Los Angeles Lakers' Western Conference Semifinals series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the 41-year-old superstar officially logged his 300th career playoff game. This officially makes him the first player in NBA history to reach 300 postseason games. Only nine other players have attained 200+ playoff games, as James separates himself from the list.

BasketNews

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: LeBron James becomes the first player with 300 postseason games

Top Data NBA... Live!: 📢HOF🏛️ LeBron James (19 points today) has passed Pau Gasol and is now ranked 12th in Lakers history with 1,563 in playoffs.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Bron James (19 points today) has passed Pau Gasol and …

Omari Sankofa II‬: Cade: "Being down 3-1 and then having a one game at a time mentality and then winning it was a great thing but it taught us how fragile and how thin the line is that comes between winning and losing. Being up 2-0 now, we know it’s a thin line still."

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Cade: "Being down 3-1 and then having a one game at a …

Hunter Patterson: Asked Cade Cunningham where Tobias Harris has been most helpful in his development: “Man, he’s been great in a lot of ways. He’s shown me a lot of things, on and off the court. Just professionalism, ways to make my life easier and do my job more efficiently.”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: “Man, he’s been great in a lot of ways. He’s shown me …

‪Oh No He Didn't‬: JB Bickerstaff while talking about Tobias Harris: "There's so many guys that think dribble dribble dribble dribble dribble dribble is a game" 🤣

bsky.app

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: "There's so many guys that think dribble dribble …

Austin Rivers: I didn’t get in the league because of my dad, and I didn’t stay in the league because of my dad. Now, did I get to be a part of a team and an opportunity with a staff that believed in me, and a coach that I knew I could play freely for? Absolutely, man. That’s why I came back. That’s why, when Portland offered me $40 million, that’s why, when Phil Jackson was trying to explain the goddamn Triangle offense in my living room, I didn’t go to New York. I went back to L.A. to get that bag so I could go play for my pops, and I could play freely and be myself, which I actually ended up doing pretty solid as a role player under Chris Paul, Jamal Crawford. That’s what my role was. That’s all I ever was in the NBA: a role player. I was never a star.

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Austin Rivers: 'I didn’t get in the league because of my dad, and I didn’t stay in the league because of my dad.'

Austin Rivers: So this whole thing where I’m comparing myself to Draymond — Draymond’s a Hall of Famer. No matter what anybody on this podcast, no matter what I say, or what anybody says, it’s not going to change. He’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer, and he deserves that because he put in the work in his role. See, there’s a difference. This is the last thing I’ll say. There’s a difference between being a star and being a star in your role. Draymond was a star in his role, one of the best at it. He talks too loose, and he talks with conceit in his voice when he tries to come at other players as if he’s better than them. No, no, no. You’ve achieved more because you were a star in your role, in a cast that Steve — the guy that hindered your career — placed you in, helped you, and embraced you with a bunch of guys on a very talented team, one of the greatest teams ever assembled: that Warriors team.

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Draymond was a star in his role, one of the best at …

Austin Rivers: My problem is, you get there with your little laptop and you try to poke holes through someone’s career, not knowing the time and energy, the pressure, and how much time we had to live in a gym and get it out the mud. Just because I didn’t come from the hood doesn’t mean I didn’t get it out the mud. Brother, this isn’t the family business that gets passed down to you. You have to be one of the best players in the world to get it. You talk about lucky? I’m unlucky. You better hope — how much money I would have made if I played in the NIL era.

YouTube

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Brother, this isn’t the family business that gets …

Caitlin Cooper: small note on this: the league has shot 34.38% from three in the playoffs, the worst of any playoffs in the tracking era the average closest defender distance on 3PA is 6.535 feet - second highest of any playoffs in the tracking era

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This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The league has shot 34.38% from three in the playoffs, …

The NBA has adjusted the business model of its proposed standalone league in Europe, sources confirmed Thursday, by informing bidders last week that it will invest over $3B to offset potential early-stage losses and to keep the teams incentivized and solvent as they pursue profit margins. After a Phase 1 bidding process concluded just over a month ago with about 20 existing basketball and soccer clubs offering between $500M to $1B for franchises, sources said NBA Europe began Phase 2 of its sales process last week with the following financial adjustments: The NBA will allocate money for high-end marketing to create significant exposure at launch. The league, as part of its $3B investment, will cover early financial deficits to prevent teams from having to pour in extra capital during the infancy stages of the launch.

Sports Business Journal

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: The NBA has adjusted the business model of its …

While the NBA and FIBA would at first own 52% of NBA Europe, the participating teams would eventually have a majority equity stake following expansion in future years. Differentiating it from other European leagues, NBA Europe’s permanent franchises cannot face relegation, a rule designed for long-term stability. Neither the NBA nor its owners will take distributions during NBA Europe’s ramp-up period, which is expected to take years, according to sources. Simultaneously, at launch and going forward, NBA Europe teams will receive undisclosed but significant participation payments.

Sports Business Journal

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Neither the NBA nor its owners will take distributions …

The noise around Auston Matthews is no longer limited to trade speculation or frustrated fan reaction. It is now being discussed openly by former NHL players and insiders, following a disastrous 2025–26 season for the Toronto Maple Leafs that ended with the club missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade.

Speaking on TSN’s OverDrive, former Leafs forward Jeff O’Neill questioned whether Matthews is still emotionally invested in the organization.

“I think if any of this stuff is starting to come out from credible people like our Chris Johnston, in my mind … I just think that the player’s already visually kind of mentally left,” O’Neill said. “He wants to leave because this stuff’s not coming out by accident, right?

“So his buddy Mitch is gone, the team stunk last year, he’s been here a long time. He’s had some great memories. He’s no kid anymore. Maybe he just wants to do something different, and that’s fine. That’s totally fine.”

MORE: Auston Matthews emerges as early focus for Maple Leafs’ new GM John Chayka

Those comments followed insider Chris Johnston reporting that Matthews may not be fully committed to staying long-term. Matthews still has a term remaining on his contract through 2027–28, but the discussion has shifted from cap management to organizational direction.

Toronto’s collapse created the perfect environment for this kind of speculation. The Leafs finished 32–36–14, allowed 299 goals, lost seven straight games to close the season, and fired general manager Brad Treliving before elimination became official.

The departure of Mitch Marner to Vegas only deepened the sense that the franchise’s core had reached its limit.

Maple Leafs’ core no longer looks untouchable

For years, Toronto treated Matthews, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly as the foundation of a championship window. Now, analysts are openly debating whether the organization should reset entirely.

O’Neill suggested, “It might be time for both sides, for all of them — Nylander, Matthews, Morgan Rielly — to just say you guys have been great soldiers. You’ve been good people. You’ve had some nice individual stat seasons, but it’s probably time for us to go in a different direction.

“That’s a scenario that I could see happening. I don’t know what that organization down the street thinks of that idea, but it’s definitely something that should and could be in play.”

That opinion would have sounded extreme one year ago. After this season, it sounds realistic. Especially since the group never found playoff success, and in nine playoff appearances, they have just won two rounds.

Matthews’ injury has also changed the conversation. A Grade 3 MCL tear ended his season in March, and Toronto looked directionless without him. Even before the injury, the team struggled defensively and lacked structure away from the puck. Additionally, the Leafs never replaced Marner’s transition playmaking.

MORE: Maple Leafs could solve Mitch Marner departure with Gavin McKenna at No. 1

Winning the NHL Draft lottery changed the Maple Leafs’ timeline

The organization’s outlook shifted again after Toronto won the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery and positioned itself to select Gavin McKenna first overall.

On the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, former NHL winger Paul Bissonnette argued that Matthews leaving would not necessarily cripple the franchise.

“I think that they’re gonna be in a solid spot,” Bissonnette said. “Getting that first overall pick changes everything. If Matthews does decide he wants to leave, it wouldn’t be the worst thing if they stripped it to the ground because the return on even him and Nylander alone, you could build around Cowan, you can build around McKenna, obviously, and then the return you could get.

“If you’re sending those guys out the door, I’d imagine you’re getting three to four first-round picks. Hopefully, they’re high first-round picks, and then probably two to three roster players, including a few prospects.
So you’d get a boatload in return, and then the timeline would match up a little bit.”

MORE: New Maple Leafs GM John Chayka not concerned by external doubts

That is the key point. Toronto suddenly has options. Prospects like Easton Cowan, Matthew Knies, and McKenna (potentially) give the franchise a younger timeline to build around. The rising salary cap also gives management more flexibility than previous Leafs front offices had.

“For the Leafs, going from where their cap’s going to now getting the first overall pick, a lot has changed,” Bissonnette said.

None of this guarantees Matthews wants out. But for the first time in his career, the possibility feels connected to hockey reality instead of offseason drama.

The Leafs are no longer asking whether their core is talented enough. They are asking whether this version of the team has already run its course.

Delhi Capitals are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026 in New Delhi on Friday.

DC are facing mounting pressure as they continue fighting for a playoff spot amid mixed results, with recent results showing a win against Rajasthan Royals and a loss to Chennai Super Kings.

KKR are also hovering around the mid-to-lower end of the table but have registered key wins against RR, Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad to help their cause of late.

In this article, The Sporting News takes you through all the details related to how and where to watch the IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders.

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Where to watch DC vs KKR: Live stream, TV channel

Here's how to watch the Delhi Capitals vs. Kolkata Knight Riders IPL 2026 game in India:

• TV channel: Star Sports Network channels
• Live stream: JioHotstar app and website

IPL 2026 matches are available for live TV broadcast across Star Sports Network channels in India. Fans can also watch the live stream on the JioHotstar app and website.

MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

What time does DC vs KKR match kick off?

The IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders will be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Delhi.

The match will start at 7:30 p.m. IST on Friday, May 8, 2026.

MORE: Who is the top run-scorer in IPL 2026?

DC vs KKR lineups, team news

Both Mitchell Starc and Lungi Ngidi have returned to action, adding more power to their fast bowling group after being earlier sidelined due to injuries. KL Rahul continues to be the primary batter in their batting lineup, and captain Axar Patel is vital for DC with his dual skills of batting and bowling.

Delhi Capitals predicted XI: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Axar Patel (c), Vipraj Nigam, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar.

Finn Allen has come back with a bang last week and should be retained alongside skipper Ajinkya Rahane. The duo of spinners in Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy is still the most threatening combination for KKR, whereas Angkrish Raghuvanshi is back to form at No. 3.

Kolkata Knight Riders predicted XI: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Finn Allen, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Cameron Green, Rinku Singh, Rovman Powell, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi.

DC vs KKR: Betting odds

Delhi Capitals are the favourites to win this IPL 2026 match at 1.89 on Dafa, while the odds for Kolkata Knight Riders to win are 1.92.

* Odds are correct at time of publish but subject to change.

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Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota. 

Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans. 

So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.

Film

• Iowa State
• Penn State
• Oregon

Background Info

• Listed at 6-5, 310 lbs.
• 3-Star Recruit according to 247 Sports
• US Army All-American in HS
• First-team All-Conference, All-County, and All-State in HS
• Played basketball and track in HS
• Placed third in the state shot put
• Third-team All-Big Ten in 2025

Notable career stats heading into 2026

• Played in 17 Games
• 419 Run Blocking Snaps
• 350 Pass Blocking Snaps
• 0 Sacks Allowed
• Called for 3 Penalties on 769 Snaps

Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026

• 74.8 Career Run Blocking Grade
• 81.3 Career Pass Blocking Grade
• 6 Pressures Allowed
• 2% Pressure Rate

Strengths

• Does extremely well in run support, especially when pulled
• Moves quickly and decisively in small movements and when pulling
• Generates some decent power, especially when he builds momentum
• Recovers well when he is beaten or caught off balance
• Strong hands and leverage in nearly every rep

Player Summary

Trevor Lauck is a fun offensive tackle prospect, and the next Iowa Hawkeye that will be flying up draft boards come next cycle. He is technically sound and decisive in his movements, which allows him to win a decent amount of reps against tough competition. In the run game, he can be a bulldozer in moments, and in the pass game, he does a great job sealing the edge. All in all, he is poised to be one of the better all-around tackle prospects in the 2027 class with a strong 2026 campaign.  

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft: Summer report on Iowa OT Trevor Lauck

The question of how Swansea City might replace Zan Vipotnik is sure to be asked this summer.

The answer may be staring the Championship club in the face.

For the moment, Vipotnik remains a Swansea player and will be part of Vitor Matos' squad when they return for pre-season.

But after the Slovenia striker's return of 25 club goals in 2025-26, Swansea's hierarchy accept that transfer interest is inevitable during the close season.

Plans must be made, therefore, for the possibility of life without Vipotnik.

Swansea will have forwards on their list of potential summer recruits, with the aim - should a deal happen - being to uncover another gem after their recent successes with Vipotnik and Joel Piroe.

But the fact that Swansea already have another established goalscorer on their books in the shape of Adam Idah will also come into the equation.

Held back by Vipotnik's form - and injury

Idah arrived from Celtic for an initial £6m last September, making him the most expensive signing in Swansea's history outside their seven-year spell in the Premier League.

The Republic of Ireland international was brought in by then boss Alan Sheehan to be Swansea's frontline number nine but the plan did not work out.

Vipotnik's superb form, plus a significant hamstring injury suffered halfway through the season, combined to ensure Idah was not the central figure Swansea expected him to be.

Nevertheless, with his blend of mobility, presence and finishing prowess, Idah showed in flashes what he can offer.

The 25-year-old made only six Championship starts in his first season at Swansea – plus 19 second-tier substitute appearances – and scored six goals.

He found the target once every 138 minutes while on the pitch in the league, similar to Vipotnik's ratio (one goal every 128 minutes), which put the two Swansea forwards among the best in the division in that particular category.

A goal per league start is a tally any player would take, but Idah describes his first year at Swansea as "not the season I would have wanted".

"To finish it with six goals is all right [but] I would have wanted more," he says.

"What every player wants is more games, more minutes and hopefully the more you play, the more goals you score."

• Work to do as Swansea bid to change the record
• Latest Swansea City news, analysis and fan views

Idah had just claimed a last-gasp winner against Wrexham – his third goal in his 18th Swansea league appearance – when he suffered a hamstring injury during training over Christmas.

He did not play club football again until early April.

"That's obviously not what you want when you come into a new team, to get injured," Idah says.

"But it's part and parcel of football. There are tough moments."

Whether it was from the substitutes' bench or the treatment room, Idah spent much of the season watching Vipotnik thrive.

The two frontmen were rarely on the pitch together, with Idah acknowledging they are "rivals" competing every day on the training ground for the same spot in Swansea's team.

But there is no animosity between the duo.

In fact, Idah describes Vipotnik as one of his closest friends in the dressing room.

"We want the best for each other and if he's scoring goals week in and week out then we're both doing our job right," Idah says.

"He's great to me when I'm playing. He's a great help for me and I'm sure we're learning off each other.

"I'm delighted for him. He's an unbelievable guy so I wish him all the best."

'I'm trying to be more like him'

All at Swansea will spend the close season wondering what the future holds for Vipotnik, given that players who score heavily in the Championship tend to be picked off by clubs higher up the chain.

Should the former Bordeaux player be sold, few are likely to be impacted more directly than Idah, who may then see a fresh opportunity to nail down a place in Matos' team.

Regardless of how things pan out in the window, Idah says it is "not a bad thing" for a goalscorer to be linked with a transfer because it usually means they are scoring goals.

"It's what you want. It shows the club are doing something right and Vipi (Vipotnik) is doing something right," he adds.

"I think no matter where you are, if you're a striker and you've scored the number of goals he has, there's always going to be speculation."

Vipotnik's goals were central to the story of Swansea's season, but there was a different tale told last weekend.

While Vipotnik missed a presentable chance against Charlton Athletic, Idah arrived from the bench to score twice in the closing stages of the Swans' 3-1 final-day win.

After a campaign in which Vipotnik has taken most of the plaudits, there was a nice moment during the Charlton triumph when he made a point of celebrating his team-mate's success.

Idah smiles when asked about their interaction.

"I just said to him, I'm trying to be more like him," he says.

• Listen to the latest Swansea City interviews, news and discussion on BBC Sounds

Summer is here, sort of, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota. 

Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans. 

So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.

Film

• Miami
• TCU
• Clemson

Background Info

• Listed at 6-5/313 lbs.
• 4-Star Recruit according to 247 Sports
• Played basketball in high school
• Voted as a unanimous selection to the All-District team in high school
• Second-Team All-ACC in 2025

Notable career stats heading into 2026

• Played in 39 Games
• 935 Run Blocking Snaps
• 1,171 Pass Blocking Snaps
• 4 Sacks Allowed
• Called for 19 Penalties on  Snaps

Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026

•  72.6 Career Run Blocking Grade
•  74 Career Pass Blocking Grade
• 39 Pressures Allowed
• 3.3% Pressure Rate

Strengths

• Really good in pass protection, handles a variety of moves thrown his way
• Held his own against Rueben Bain Jr. and T.J. Parker, got physical with them, looking to set the tone, which I appreciated
• Generates power in his punch but also establishes a strong base when anchoring
• Excellent hand fighter, gets leverage, and has a strong grip to maintain it
• Moves extremely well, can get to the second level or be pulled to lead block on the outside if need be

Player Summary

P.J. Williams is a very fun offensive tackle prospect in the 2027 class if he declares. He is very much an athlete in a big body, and he plays like it. I enjoy seeing him match up with several notable pass rushers and holding his own, in fact event imposing his will on them at times. Williams also moves extremely well for his size and can be utilized in a variety of ways. He can be a bulldozer in the run blocking game and also anchor well when in pass pro. He has some moments where he gets caught, so he isn’t a finished product, but there is a lot to be excited about with him. 

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft: Summer report on SMU OT P.J. Williams

The 2027 NFL Draft will take place in Washington, D.C. next year. In that draft, the Vikings still have their first-round pick, but a lot could happen in the next 12 months. Before then, though, there will be plenty of speculation and buildup for the team and who they may add to the roster through the draft in a class that many are saying could be one of generational wealth.

Sharp Football's Ryan McCrystal recently released the latest way-too-early 2027 NFL mock draft of the cycle, which has the team going with a replacement for one of their star tackles. He projects them to land Texas offensive tackle Trevor Goosby in a move that leads to some questions about the future of the roster.

McCartysal explains the Goosby pick, writing, "Goosby took over for Kelvin Banks Jr. at left tackle in 2025, and the transition was nearly seamless. The 6-foot-7 lineman is built like a prototypical left tackle and could be in the top-10 conversation if his development continues."

Goosby is my top tackle heading into the Fall after completing Summer Scouting on him. He moves so well, has sound mechanics, and has the athleticism the league has started to enjoy from their tackles. If the team moves on from one in a weird twist, Goosby would be the top choice.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Trevor Goosby attached to the Vikings in a new 2027 mock draft